#perform (oratory)

[power-chords]

Prima Facie was so disappointing. Jodie Comer was excellent. But the instant a Play becomes a Polemic my eyes glaze over. I wish it had not cheapened itself by exhorting its audience with rote calls to action. Oh?? Something needs to CHANGE??? You don’t say!

[b4bauthor]

Artist and musician Herm Freeman and I performing "The Spectator". Circa 2015.

[dolcesuono]

*cracks knuckles* my body is ready...

[tmarshconnors]

Power of Repetition in Public Speaking

After watching "Oscar-winning actor & writer Tom Hanks gives the Oxford Union an acting lesson" on YouTube I felt inspired to write this blog. The link below if interested.

Public speaking is an art that transcends mere words; it involves a deep understanding of human psychology, effective communication techniques, and the strategic use of rhetorical devices. Among these, repetition stands out as a powerful tool that can elevate a speech from ordinary to extraordinary. In this blog, we delve into the Repetition class in speaking, exploring how this technique can captivate audiences, enhance message retention, and leave a lasting impact.

The Basics of Repetition:

Repetition involves the intentional reuse of words, phrases, or ideas within a speech. When employed thoughtfully, it can create emphasis, reinforce key points, and establish a rhythm that resonates with the audience. There are various forms of repetition, each serving a unique purpose:

Anaphora: This involves repeating the same word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or sentences. For example, Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic "I Have a Dream" speech masterfully uses anaphora with the repetition of "I have a dream."

Epistrophe: In contrast to anaphora, epistrophe repeats a word or phrase at the end of successive clauses or sentences. Winston Churchill's famous "We shall fight on the beaches" speech is a classic example of epistrophe in action.

Anadiplosis: This technique involves repeating the last word of one clause or sentence at the beginning of the next. This creates a seamless connection between ideas and builds momentum. Yoda's sage advice, "Fear is the path to the dark side. Fear leads to anger, anger leads to hate, hate leads to suffering," is an example of anadiplosis.

The Impact of Repetition:

Emphasis: Repetition serves as a spotlight, directing the audience's attention to specific words or ideas. By repeating a key point, a speaker can emphasize its importance, making it more likely to be remembered.

Rhythm and Flow: A well-crafted repetition adds a musical quality to a speech, creating a rhythmic flow that engages the audience. This cadence can make the message more memorable and enjoyable.

Connection: Repetition helps to establish connections between different parts of a speech. It ties ideas together, creating a cohesive narrative that is easier for the audience to follow.

Persuasion: Through repetition, a speaker can subtly persuade the audience to adopt a particular viewpoint or take action. The consistent reinforcement of a message can influence attitudes and beliefs.

Practical Tips for Using Repetition Effectively:

Choose Key Points: Identify the core messages you want to convey, and strategically repeat key words or phrases associated with these points.

Consider Your Audience: Tailor your repetition to resonate with your audience. Understanding their preferences, values, and expectations will help you use repetition more effectively.

Vary Your Approach: While repetition is a powerful tool, overusing it can diminish its impact. Vary your repetition techniques to keep the audience engaged and interested.

Practice Pacing: The timing and pacing of repetition are crucial. Practice delivering your speech with the right rhythm to maximize its impact.

In the world of public speaking, the Repetition class is a formidable ally. When wielded with skill and precision, repetition can transform a speech into a compelling, memorable experience for both the speaker and the audience. By understanding the various forms of repetition and practising its implementation, speakers can elevate their communication skills and leave a lasting impression on those who listen.

[cocofawn]

passionate syllables. a poem dedicated to you.

their tongue is a masterclass in expression, the lyrical nature of their delivery an art form in and of itself.

your fﾉo has a way with words, their vocabulary a vast array of descriptors, their prose a flowing river, a stream of consciousness that is both captivating and enchanting.

they use their voice as a canvas, painting images— scenes so vivid, they seem real. they evokes emotions, rouse feelings, stir thoughts, all with a simple string of sounds, a sentence or two.

you hang on to every inflection, every intonation. each vowel and consonant is wholeheartedly absorbed, and the weight of their tone resonates deep within your soul.

honey-sweet and butter-smooth, lovingly composed and tenderly articulated, they compose a piece that leaves you in awe, their oratory prowess rivalling the skills of the greatest of storytellers.

to say you're impressed would be an understatement. you're thoroughly enchanted, captivated, enraptured, completely and utterly mesmerised by their talent.

and to think, this expertise is solely for your ears alone, reserved exclusively for you, a private performance for an audience of one . .

oh, how lucky you are, to be the recipient of such an intimate display, the subject of their poetry..

how lucky you are, indeed.

[the-whatcherof-89]

Sir CyberKnife Herald of order.

CR 22 LG Medium Humanoid (Orc, Humanoid)

XP 614,400 (if used as npc for encounter)Advanced Half orc Bard(Negotiator)12 Paladin(Scion of peace)8

Lawful Good Medium humanoid (half orc)

Init +7; Senses Perception +39

AC 36, touch 25, flat-footed 29, (+7Natural, +5Deflect, +6Armor, +5Shield, +7Dexterity, +1Intuition) Hp 225 (12d8+8D10+148)

Fort +33, Ref +33, Will +36

Speed 30 ft. Melee Diplomat3+28/23/18/13 1D6+4, Spells. Ranged Bow of Artaphernes+32/27/22/17 1D8+8, Spells.

Racial Speed 30ft, Darkvision 60ft, Human-raised, sacred tattoo, Orc blood.

Traits Noble Savage.

Class features Hard bargain, Bardic performance(Counter-argument, Fast talk, binding contract, Distraction, Fascinate, Inspire competence, Suggestion, Dirge of doom, Soothing performance), Master of rhetoric 2/day, Well-versed, Jack of all trades, Rogue talents(Finesse rogue, Charmer, Ranged disarm, Slippery mind), Scion’s faith, Egalitarian, Aura of good, Detect evil, Smite evil3/day, Bonded eagle, Lay on hands, Aura of courage, Divine health, Channel positive energy, Mercy(Deceived, Riled), Consensus.

Spellcasting CL12(Bard) Daily 8/8/7/6 CL5th(Paladin) Daily 4/4 DC22.

Known(Bard): 0-Read magic, Mage hand, Prestidigitation, Detect magic, Repair, Message. I-Charm person, Hideous laughter, Grease, Cure light wounds, Animate ropes, Alarm. II-Cure moderate wounds, Calm emotions, Mirror image, Enthrall, Hold person. III-Haste, Good hope, Dispel magic, Charm monster. IV-Hold monster, Summon monster IV-Freedom of movement, Illusory terrain.

Prepared(Paladin): I-Bless, Lesser restoration, Build trust, Detect undead. II-Resist energy, Bull’s strength, Shield other, Zone of truth.

Str 12, Dex 24, Con 24, Int 24, Wis 22, Cha 34

Base Atk +17/12/7/2; CMB +13; CMD +20

Feats Scribe scroll, Combat expertise, Precise shot, Improved disarm, Deadly aim, Adept champion, Outflank, Leadership, Point-blank shot, Spell focus(Enchantment), Greater spell focus(Enchantment).

Skills Acrobatics+30, Appraise+11, Bluff+22, Climb+9, Craft(Calligraphy)+30, Diplomacy+46, Disguise+16, Escape artist+30, Fly+11, Handle animal+16, Heal+12, Intimidate+22, Knowledge (Arcana+29, Dungeon+15, Engineering+15, Geography+15, History+15, Local+21, Nature+15, Nobility+15, The planes+15, Religion+15), Linguistics+4, Perception+29, Perform(Oratory)+35, Profession(Ambassador)+15, Ride+11, Sense motive+45, Sleight of hand+15, Spellcraft+28, Stealth+15, Survival+10, Swim+5, Use magic device+33.

Leadership score (40)Cohort lv17th Followers I-135 II-13 III-7 IV-4 V-2  VI-2 (Special modifications due to the Kingstone)

Languages Common, Orcish, Giant, Abyssal, Draconic, Ignan, Aquan, Necril, Alko, Sylvan, Tongues(via the Kingstone).

Combat gear Diplomat3(Disarming blade+Diplomat’s traveling stick+ Defending rapier+4), Bow of Artaphernes(Adaptive Cunning Allying dispelling Longbow+5), 50+3 Arrows, Clod iron longsword, Uniform of Apollonius(Heavy fortification Iadran dress uniform+3), Ring of protection+5, Ring of tactical precision(Outflank), Amulet of natural armor+5, Quick-block buckler, Staff of bolstering, Headband of mental superiority+6(Escape artist), Belt of physical might+6(Dex, Con), Cloak of Diogenes(Cloak of the diplomat+Cloak of resistance+3), Inquisitor’s monocle, Bracers of steadiness, Bag of holding(Type I), Tome of leadership and influence+3(Used), Ioun stones(Lavender and green ellipsoid, Dusty rose prism), Potions of gaseous form(4), Scrolls: Haste(1), Heroism(1), (Summon monster IV(3), Bard’s kit, 373GP, The Kingstone(Artifact).

The Kingstone(Artifact) Aura(Strong enchantment) CL18th Description: 

This artifact looks like a finely-carved marble sphere with runes of gold inscribed in various languages reciting poems of kings and rulers which changes every day. The stone can be carried by anyone but only those who are worthy can use its powers. Those deemed unworthy will have the stone turned into a cursed artifact known as a Loadstone. However, should one work to find a suitable user, the stone will guide the holder toward the “Ideal King” via prophetic dreams and other means granting the power to use Divine Favor upon itself once per day. Once the stone finds the “Ideal King” it will bestow its powers upon him which includes the following: 1)The user is constantly under the effect of of the following spells: Divine Favor, Tongues and Heroism. 2)All effect of auras, inspiration and Charisma-based skills, abilities and spells double the area which they cover normally, their other effects remain unchanged. 3)Finally, if the user manages to become a ruling figure of a kingdom or to be accepted as a king, the stone allows to the user to project an illusory image of the kingdoms and it will automatically know if there are enemies in the land(such as an invading army). This effect functions as the spell Sand Table. 4)All the authority bonuses increases by +3, furthermore, the user can summon an extra Monstrous Cohort of the appropriate level that serves him once per day for 1 hour which can be divided in 1 minute increments at his request(In this case it’s a Young Silver Dragon). If the cohort is killed, it disappears and can be summoned again after 24h. The more the user becomes famous, the more it becomes closer to turn into the “Ideal King” the ruler of all nations and kingdoms whom will unite all the world under a single banner. It is unknown if this is true or just a myth, but if the holder of the stone wishes to pass the torch of rulership it must find a replacement before giving it away. Common people will come flocking under the holder of the Kingstone seeing him as the true king (Regardless, such situation must be discussed by the DM). Destruction: To destroy the Kingstone it must be buried in the ground of the material plane in a land where no kingdom/nation has been established for at least 100 years and it must stay there for 1000 years untouched. When said time has passed, the stone turns into dust. However, the gods will not stay idle and a new Kingstone is sure to reappear somewhere, somehow to find a new candidate “Ideal King”.

Challenge rating modifiers +1 advanced template, Improved stats, PC equipment.

Background: Very little is known about the one known as Cyberknife(if that is his real name). From what  little snippets of knowledge some attained, he was born in the Nether as all Piglins(Orcs) does. However, as it happens very rarely, the pig inhabitants of the red wastes will give birth to a hybrid: a Hal-feh(half-orc). Even more rarely, these hybrids becomes just better than the more run-of-the-mill gold-obsessed creatures. Of course, the leaders of the various clans will see these as “impure” and/or a danger for their leadership and will most likely try to systematically eliminate the threat before it becomes a real one. Cyberknife was one such case, but as he was about to be sacrificed in a ritual for their god, he succeeded at escaping by causing a Hoglin stampede across the bastion and escaping from an obsidian portal. Although, he did heard that if one of their kin does escape the dimension is turned into a zombie, he knew he was born DIFFERENT. As he left, he felt something change but he was fine; He found a vibrant world completely different from the lava-scarred caves he used to live. He walked the land, and although he had a rocky start(not being accepted by the inhabitants of this land) eventually things took a turn when he was accepted in a traveling circus where he discovered his talent for the bardic arts. He then enrolled into a bardic academy where he was the only one of his kind, not a good thing but he did not care for he had bigger plans in mind: He wanted to change the view the world had on the Nether and reestablish a peaceful relationships with the two dimensions. This was not an easy task but he was DETERMINED. After more years, he left the academy to look for fortune as an adventurer; and one day after a long expedition in an ancient tomb he found that stone: the Kingstone. After that day, it took him little to enroll as an advisor in a battlefield and even less to rise in the ranks and become a commander. With the glory of victory he entered the kingdom a champion, then, with the money that he attained, he founded a political campaign to promote the betterment of the kingdom. The opposition attempted to destroy him, but he was always able to thwart their efforts and won in a landslide. Cyberknife became the ruler of a nation at the young age of 22 and had no intention of stopping. After 10 years of turmoil he succeeded to quell the conflict between 3 more kingdoms and unite them under his banner. Now, from his massive palace he plans for the future… but what future?

First image - made with Heroforge.

Second image - Art by the fantastic Goatfella: https://www.tumblr.com/goatfellaa/693602368642809856/cyberknife-design?source=share

[laurapetrie]

Making her first recorded appearance at the English court [during the Cheateau Vert masque in 1522] was Perserverance, she who would go down in history. A dark-haired figure; not beautiful, but polished to the glitter of a gemstone by a youth spent at the continental courts. An accomplished performer and markswoman whose arrows would indeed strike right to Henry's heart, but who would in the end be herself the one destroyed by the courtly fantasy. At the end of the evening, at a banquet of custards and candied fruits and gilded gingerbread and flavored spirits of wine, the masquers all divested themselves of their disguises. When Perseverance unmasked, it was revealed she was that newcomer to court, that expert performer. . . Her name was Anne Boleyn. - Sarah Gristwood Anne Boleyn was neither saint nor villain; she was not even a particularly bad person. Her virtues overwhelmingly outweighed her vices. We have not yet troubled to look properly at her charities, her friendships and the tidal wave of compliments that were hers in the days before notoriety drowned her. We ignore her controversial attendance at a Requiem Mass for the butchered Cardinal Fisher, her locking of herself in her oratory and bursting into tears at the news of Katherine of Aragon’s death, or the commendable image of a woman horrified and disgusted by the burning to death of heretics. She was a mass of contradictions – much good, some bad – but in the end we must allow her this, for it reminds us that this extraordinary woman really lived. - Gareth Russell

[ingravinoveritas]

Why do I feel like this post just got personal and going in for the attack like she did for the radio one on twitter I'm not shocked or surprised by this cos the behaviour is getting more stranger and nasty and a fan on twitter shared this on her page saying we got ur bk u got a whole army behind u. I'm sorry what army and I'm sure if they spilt the fans wouldn't be behind her them they literally making it worst

What do u think ?

So, I saw/got a whole bunch of DMs over this Insta story this morning, but didn't have a chance to talk about it until now.

My first thought was that this was almost certainly in response to the negative reviews and backlash coming out for The Way in the wake of episode 3. The two biggest culprits in terms of media outlets seem to be the Daily Mail (Fail) and the Telegraph, and while I won't link to them here because I don't want to give either site any traffic, both reviews can easily be found via a Google search. Adding to those were a stream of vicious comments, both in the comments sections on the respective websites and on social media, largely from what seem to be right-wing/leaning accounts and public figures.

Knowing that, it made me think that Michael had to have been aware of what the potential reaction to the show could be. We know he was, actually, because he's talked about it in several interviews over the past few weeks, such as this one. And I think with Michael being who he is, he would be entirely amused at knowing he has pissed off exactly the right people. So while I could certainly see him in private having a reaction like the one in AL's story--more than understandably so, given how nasty some of the reviews and comments were--that doesn't necessarily mean it's a good reaction to have publicly. And I think Michael knows that, too.

What also adds to the disconnect for me is that a few hours later, an article that Michael had written as a rebuttal came out in the New Statesman:

What Michael wrote is a brilliant repudiation of remarks made by a Tory MP--a piece that is intelligent, snarky, direct yet unfailingly eloquent. It wasn't just Michael defending his show, but using it (and Nye) to make a point, to make clear what he believes in, and to stand for the truth. And in much the same way that Michael's acting and oratory skills elevate any piece of work he performs, his writing conveyed that same depth, and it came across as effortless as everything else he does.

Which again left me with that feeling of disconnect when looking at Michael's article side-by-side with Anna's Insta story. It's not even that I disagree with her in this instance, as I do think the reviews were unduly harsh and devolved entirely too quickly into personal attacks in the comments. It's that when it comes to acting/directing, criticisms are part of the job, and whether she intended it or not, an Insta story like AL's conveys a sense of unprofessionalism. And when you put it next to Michael's writing, it looks more like a teenager throwing a fit instead of an adult giving a fierce clapback, which again probably was her intention.

Also keep in mind that everything I just wrote is predicated on the idea that someone seeing this story knows what AL is talking about. But I have to wonder how readily apparent it was, because it's so vague that it would probably be difficult for most people to suss out what she is referencing. So it's confusing to me that she is seemingly charging to Michael's defense...but without actually saying his name or the name of the show. Again, it feels like there is a disconnect/sharp contrast between Anna vague-blogging and how specific and incisive Michael was in that article, and it seems like they're not even close to being on the same page.

Those are my thoughts on Anna's Insta story from this morning. It's definitely a fair bit of whiplash, especially given the drastically different tone of her last few recent posts. But I'm interested as always to hear from my followers with your take, regardless of whether you agree or disagree. Thank you for writing in! x

[divinekangaroo]

Was Tommy upset Lizzie left him? He tells Diana he is not.

Actually kind of fascinated by the thought of viewing PB believing that everything the characters say is true. They’re a bunch of situational liars as well as coming from positions of not everyone in-series having all the information.

So, Tommy telling Diana he’s not upset his wife left him. Here’s a few readings:

1) Tommy is outright lying.  As if he’d EVER tell the fascist upper class woman who cornered him into unwanted performative sex (remember immediately after he fell into a traumatic flashback?) whose partner also made him perform a Nazi salute (and please be aware that the Romani people across Europe experienced a holocaust too - this can be found easily on Wiki and various holocaust websites - this act cut him so deeply, remember the submachine gun scene following?) -- AND THEN broke up his marriage in a mirroring of the Nazi salute scene within (at most) one day after him having sex with Diana, as if he'd ever tell this woman who he KNOWS is mentally and morally and deliberately FUCKING with him: ‘yeah actually I’m super upset and sad.  Hope you won’t find a way to pour salt on that wound too.’

2) Tommy is telling a version of truth.  He’s not upset because he’s relieved that Lizzie will no longer have the burden of his death and the rest of this clusterfuck of what’s going on.  It’s over and done now, the pain’s as bad as it can get, and at least Lizzie doesn’t have to suffer the remaining painful things he’s going to have to do, like force himself to fuck Diana again, or kill himself, or be murdered, or declare himself publicly a fascist, or be publically discredited, or any one of a hundred compromising things that he believes he needs to do to stop Mosley, but that would hurt Lizzie more.

3) Tommy is telling both a truth (per the above) and a lie.  Tommy is upset Lizzie left him, notwithstanding any relief as well; Tommy never gave any indication he wanted her to leave him.  I’ve written about this before (https://www.tumblr.com/divinekangaroo/730179748259627008/tommy-says-sorry-to-lizzie-a-phenomenal-amount-of?source=share) In addition to everything at that post, the lameness of his attempt to talk to Lizzie after Diana’s dropped her bomb is telling in itself: this man had a whole crowd eating out of his hand during his speech at the start of S6.  This man speaks beautifully in parliament.  He is a master of oratory.  And yet, he can’t speak convincingly to his wife?  He couldn’t come up with some compelling position statement for her?  That’s because we see this repeated motif that he can speak when it’s not personal – it's policy, there’s distance, the Sergeant Major speaking to his men – but when it’s personal (Lizzie here, Michael in S5, Ruby’s death etc), he gets *so* upset he can’t speak, or when he does it's this faltering, broken sort of thing.

But – and I have seen this bouncing around tumblr - a reading that he wasn’t upset Lizzie left him because he thought Lizzie was a huge drag and now he could be free to fuck Diana because he enjoyed fucking Diana because it got one up over Mosley – I just.  *blinks, bewildered*

[allaboutjoseph]

Plenary Indulgence Conditions Nov 1-8

A Guide to Plenary Indulgences for the All Souls' "Octave", November 1-8 Visiting a Cemetery: An indulgence, applicable only to the Souls in Purgatory, is granted to the faithful, who devoutly visit a cemetery and pray, even if only mentally, for the departed. The indulgence is plenary each day from November 1-8; on other days of the year it is a partial indulgence.

Visiting a Church on November 2: A plenary indulgence, applicable only to the souls in purgatory, is granted to the faithful who, on All Souls' Day (or, according to the judgment of the ordinary, on the Sunday preceding or following it, or on the solemnity of All Saints), devoutly visit a church or an oratory and recite an Our Father and the Creed.

Praying for the Faithful Departed: A partial indulgence, applicable only to the souls in purgatory, is granted to the faithful who,

devoutly visit a cemetery and at least mentally pray for the dead;

devoutly recite lauds or vespers from the Office of the Dead or the prayer Eternal rest. (Manual of Indulgences, fourth edition, 1999)

Indulgence Requirements:

To gain a plenary indulgence, in addition to excluding all attachment to sin, even venial sin, it is necessary to perform the indulgent work and fulfill the following three conditions: sacramental Confession, Eucharistic Communion, and prayer for the intention of the Sovereign Pontiff.

A single sacramental confession suffices for gaining several plenary indulgences, but Holy Communion must be received and prayer for the intention of the Holy Father must be recited for the gaining of each plenary indulgence.

The three conditions may be fulfilled several days before or after the performance of the prescribed work; it is, however, fitting that Communion be received and the prayer for the intention of the Holy Father be said on the same day the work is performed.

The condition of praying for the intention of the Holy Father is fully satisfied by reciting one Our Father and one Hail Mary. A plenary indulgence can be acquired only once in the course of the day, a partial indulgence can be acquired multiple times.

If a visit to a Church or an oratory is required to obtain an indulgence attached to a particular day, this may be accomplished from noon of the preceding day until midnight of the particular day.

Manual of Indulgences, fourth edition, 1999 (Enchridion Indulgentarium)

Solemnity of All Saints - November 01, 2023 - Liturgical Calendar | Catholic Culture

[rad-hound]

A hobby that seems so typical of Monsoon

I could name a few, actually, that I feel would best suit his... stature, as well as his personality, or... the fragment of it which is present within Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance, of which is already quite transparent. But, for the sake of sustainability, and because I may end up creating a masterpost soon enough, here are a select few that come to mind when I see him.

"Rain-bathing," or willingly soaking himself during a torrential rain / flood:

Given Monsoon's moniker / namesake, as well as his somewhat naturalistic views upon life in its entirety—the ideology that nature will simply run its course, and the strong will prosper off of the weak's own negligence—I find it's only fitting that he finds himself otherwise taken, perhaps 'seduced,' by rainfall. As evident by his words, "Come to me, rain, wash it all away..." Perhaps viewing it—rain, and by default, nature in its entirety—as one of the only things in existence that could be above him, above his coworkers / consorts, upon such a... naturalistic 'food chain,' as it were. To Monsoon, such is simply his natural environment; he simply will not thrive if he presently isn't being waterboarded by a flood, and I feel he likely would actively seek excuses to stow away from any sort of venue, particularly if it takes place indoors. I believe a similar sentiment is shared in regards to the Japanese garden that is present within World Marshal; if not unfettered, unfiltered nature by itself, then a mere reflection of it shall suffice, no matter how tacky it may be.

Sparring, both enemy & consort:

I find that, outside of his almost eloquent manner of speaking, and his androgynous appearance which may suggest otherwise—when he's in the mood for it—he is a very rough-and-tumble type of man, of which was very apparent during his fight with Raiden / Jack the Ripper. Having appeared almost too eager to... 'sink his teeth in,' in a way, also evident by how fervent he was to taunt Raiden during their initial battle. Even within the contents of the base game's Jetstream DLC—while Monsoon appeared to exercise restraint around Sam, likely knowing that his boss would want to deal with him later on—even verbally, he garners this kind of teasing demeanor about him that is rather difficult to miss. As though he were itching, perhaps aching, to find a reason to fight Sam, but knew better than to 'jump the gun' at that very moment. Likely viewing Sam as an asset, rather than a piece of meat. Though, after that entire debacle—given, if the Winds of Destruction don't simply interact with each other as a means of performance, and rather, interact with one another out of genuine interest than hidden contempt—I do believe in the likelihood that Monsoon sparred with several of his consorts, probably more frequently, over no particular period of time, as they gradually became more accustomed to one another's presence. Likely viewing battle as one of his only means of expressing his emotions—contempt, anger, interest, so on and so forth—given how such a means of violence was simply something he'd grown up with; forcibly removed from any sort of prior security he once knew, only to find comfort within such violence. Or, rather, the illusion of it. However, with those he may view as an enemy, he may believe that no restraint is needed, and that it's free game. Not that Monsoon seems like the type to, again, 'jump the gun,' were one of his own allies to inadvertently displease or disgruntle him, given how casually he and Armstrong appear to converse with each other within the Japanese garden. Even feeling so bold as to openly disagree with him, perhaps feeling more comfortable with the established security that he was on the Senator's 'good side.' One core testament as to how his humanity is portrayed within the game.

Writing / performing oratory speeches, conversing:

As evident by his encounter with Raiden, joined by the very brief phone call he has with Sam in the base game's Jetstream DLC, it feels almost ignorant to believe that Monsoon would be anything but an oratory and literary genius, of sorts. Even with the very distinct flaws within his own ideology, Monsoon's confidence within his own belief appears to be unwavering, intact, even when faced with certain death; towards which he may interact with utter terror, entirely dependent upon how Raiden goes about fighting him. We've all heard it, and we all know one thing for certain; Monsoon's 'meme' speech is a cultural landmark, and its relevancy—alongside that of Armstrong's own speech—remains unwavering, and will likely retain its relevancy until time itself collapses. Even outside of its core and subliminal messages, how Monsoon himself likely intended for Raiden to have taken it, it's rather obvious that the man has a talent for speech, or, at the very least, stringing words together on paper. To the extent where I truthfully would not be shocked if Monsoon wrote his own speeches, or, rather, wrote speeches for others to perform on their own behalf. And, given Armstrong's admission of, "[not] writing [his] own speeches" during his battle with Raiden near the climax of the game, I wouldn't be surprised if Monsoon had even a tinge of involvement in crafting it. If not him, then likely some poor bastard in the PR department. (Given, if Monsoon himself isn't already part of that department, anyways.) Even outside the realm of professionalism for a moment, I simply find that Monsoon—with all of his quirks and his flaws—can't resist the temptation to simply speak, and let his mind be known. Even if those around him may not necessarily know what to say in response to his words, perhaps the reassurance that some people—some against their own will—are actually hearing him out, after what may have been decades of Monsoon feeling... 'trapped in his own head,' so to speak, bestows upon him a twisted feeling of reassurance he likely hasn't known for a very long time. Not to say that Monsoon was never outspoken about his own beliefs. That, and I believe that he might just enjoy talking down upon others, as evident with the in-game implication that he and Sam 'shit-talked' about Raiden prior to his arrival in Denver. Haters gotta hate, I suppose.

This is—for the most part—the gist of it, since the rest of my presumptions / assumptions of what I would believe to be Monsoon's hobbies may begin dipping into headcanon territory. But these are the primary few which I believe best align with the image of Monsoon we're given within the game, or the image of him we're meant to perceive, from the very little screentime he is bestowed.

But worry not! Eventually I'll make a masterpost, as mentioned above, so hopefully there will be more Monsoon to come in the near future. ^_^ So thank you, again, to @miz-orque for this ask, I'm having quite a blast answering these.

[that-one-i-think]

I am bored and playing starbound so time to write some novakid lore! Lore dump under the read more!

- Novakids do actually have faces, it us just under their brands.

- Their brands act as a sort of temperature stabilizer, as novakids are a species made of hard light and energy, they can get HOT! Think of getting angry but the angrier you get the more of the floor you are standing on melts.

- Novakids can actually age out of needing a brand, as once they are past the teenager stage they normally have a better control of their emotions. A lot of Novakids still wear them because they look neat, cultural significance, makes them identifiable, and the majority of novakids who interact with other races wear them as a precaution. Don't want to get into a tussle and suddenly you are setting a floran ablaze.

- Novakid faces are normally rather human in look, but depending on the species they are raised around, it can take on similar features. Some novakids raised around hylotls will in incredibly rare cases be seen with a third eye or false gills. Some novakid even have stubble or "hot spots" that look like human facial hair.

- Novakids forms are also a bit loose and gender doesn't necessarily mean anything to them. They can technically change their gender at will, but most of the time no one really cares as it is a process that requires a lot of focus. Novakids take a person's identity seriously though

- Procreation in Novakids is actually very similar to any mammalian species. One side impregnated the other with the only difference being the fact that either side can technically do either job. Novakid pregnancies also last a year or a full star cycle and a stabilizer cannot be worn at this time. It is why Novakids are very protective of parents and kids as they are very vulnerable at this time.

- Novakids are made of solid energy and are kind of similar to a lava lamp. Having a touchable layer. Think of the glass frogs. Novakids while being able to get wet since it won't actually put them out, just don't like to because as a glowing thing in water, they attract predators.

- Novakids, being made of pure energy, will sometimes sacrifice a limb in dire situations to release a mass output of energy. Whether it be to supercharge a ship or as a last ditch effort to kill an enemy. Like lizards who amputate their tails. Some novakids will fully blow themselves up to take down entire ships. Though, the older they are the less the energy and natural novakid death is them fading into lights like brightly colored fireflies.

- They scar white and blue, and their blood is naturally a bright blue. Think of the blue flame of torches, it is can actually be hot as well but not burning. It has a similar taste to cinnamon whiskey and floran use it to get drunk. Some novakids will purposely carry a vial of their blood for this purpose. SHOTS

- Florans and Novakids are actually rather close species, as Novakids will allow florans to photosynthesise with their light. Novakids like florans because they don't beat around the bush, no pun intended.

-Despite popular belief, Novakids do have a rich history, it is just entirely oratory. Novakids never had a writing system but had a vast music system. If you meet a Novakid that can't sing or play an instrument, then you met an imposter. (Also, a lot of Novakids just can't read.)

-Hylotl scholars have been working with novakids to write down all of their stories and songs. Very mutually beneficial because Novakids like performing and the Hylotl like the arts.

- Novakids can get along with most other races but are not particularly fond of the Apex. They are too rigid and militaristic for their liking.

- Novakids have no real origin story though, they are dated to have appeared around the time the cultivator and the ruin fought but nothing other than that. Novakids have no origin story as they just all say they kind of appeared. Pisses historians OFF

- Novakid society is very justice orientated, with their biggest job export other than bard being bounty hunters. If you harm a child or kill someone in cold blood, then you might just have a novakid on your tail. Not uncommon for some novakids to take up revenge jobs for free if the persons cause was meaningful enough.

- Novakids are incredibly protective of children as well. Children are incredibly unstable, and before the use of brands, they had high mortality rates, so harming a child can be worse than killing a man in their society. A lot of mixed planets tell their children to find a Novakid if they are ever lost or in danger. (They also make incredible babysitters. Not the safest babysitter but definitely fun ones. The kid is gonna learn how to use a gun)

- Novakids have a deadly fear or a general unnerving feeling around any form of tentacles. Weird evolutionary thing that no one can really place.

- Despite not having a written language Novakids can read writing in ANCIENT temples dating to the cultivator Era. Why a lot of Hylotl hire them to explore dungeons.

- Last but not least: Novakids sound southern because the translator is based on human approximation, and Novakids leaned into it for aesthetic purposes.

[why-bless-your-heart]

A plenary or full indulgence, applicable only to the souls in Purgatory, is granted to the faithful who,

1. On any and each day from November 1 to 8, devoutly visit a cemetery and pray, if only mentally, for the departed; or

2. On All Souls’ Day, devoutly visit a church or oratory and recite an Our Father and Creed.

A partial indulgence, applicable only to the souls in Purgatory, is granted to the faithful who,

1. Devoutly visit a cemetery and at least mentally pray for the dead; or

2. Devoutly recite lauds and vespers from the Office for the Dead or the prayer:

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord and let the perpetual light shine upon them.

May they rest in peace. Amen.

It is also necessary to fulfill the following conditions for the plenary indulgence,

1. Make a sacramental confession; and

2. Receive Holy Communion; and

3. Pray for the intention of the Holy Father (no particular prayers are prescribed for the intention of the Holy Father, an Our Father and a Hail Mary are appropriate).

These conditions may be fulfilled several days before or after the visit to the Church. A plenary indulgence can only be acquired once in the course of the day; it is, however, fitting that Holy Communion be received and the prayer for the intention of the Holy Father be said on the same day the work is performed.

[transmutationisms]

maybe you’ve talked about this before, but i’d love to hear your opinion on kendall’s moment in front of vongress. i find it fascinating how he’s sometimes able to get a hold of himself and deliver in high pressure situations with relative confidence and clarity. what do you think keeps him from performing in such a way on a consistent basis? i mean obviously i’d assume it’s mainly his logan-related trauma, but in front of congress logan was sitting right next to him, so what was different about that situation? the fact that logan was floundering in his stalling attempt (or appeared to be)? what are your thoughts on this?

kendall's a bit of a drama queen and sometimes it pays off for him. like, he loves to Say His Piece and look bombastic for the cameras. i think his most successful oratorial moments (congress, 2x10, 4x06) are less about him being really collected or a skilled speaker and more about him riding some emotional high, combined with a crowd that's primed to play along. in that congressional hearing, he basically finessed by playing off the chamber's (and the country's) dislike of gil (on the grounds of being dull and didactic), versus a situation like 3x03 where he froze up at the prospect of being embarrassed in front of sophie iwobi's audience, who would be all but guaranteed to side with her. you can see a similar thing happening in 4x06 where he becomes visibly more high on himself as he becomes more assured of the audience's positive response. kendall's not charming, but he does feed off that type of performance where he's getting crowd approval.

[dungeon-roving]

Alternate Laios (mostly joking)

Bard with Perform (oratory: hyperfixate).

If you want to see my actual pathfinderization of Laios, it was in a previous post and was a Lore Warden Fighter 11 / Inquisitor 3 (if you have to pick a god from Golarion -- the dead Curchanus is the only god I could see Laios willingly serving. Good-aligned god of Monsters. )

[the-whatcherof-89]

Smallishbeans Aka Joel Thundercheek the twice fallen. 

Half orc Sklad(War Drummer) 17 CR17 CG 

Medium Humanoid (Orc, Human) XP 102,400

Chaotic Good Medium Humanoid (Orc, Human) Perception+30, Ini+2

HP198 (17D8+119)

AC30 (+2Dex, +2Shield, +4Natural, +4Deviation, +7Armor, +1Intuition) Contact 21 Flat-Footed 28

BaB+12/7/2 CMB+16 CMD+28

Melee Great Bean Cudgel+19/14/9 1D10+7

Ranged Light crossbow+15/10/5 1D8+1, Javelin+15/10/5 1D6+5, Spells.

FORT+19 REFL+9 WILL+19

Racial traits: Forest walker, Orc ferocity, Scavenger, Pariah, Orc blood.

Traits: Amaible blunder, Lovesick.

Class abilities: Fearsome miem, Deadly rhythm, Inspired rage+5(+6Str/Con), Raging song, Song of marching, Improved uncanny dodge, Song of strength, DR2/-, Spell kenning, Song of the fallen, Weapon master(Greatclub), Dirge of doom, Siege drums, Versatile performance(Oratory, Percussion, Martial performance-Greatclub), Saga:Lay of the scholar king, Well versed, Rage powers: Superstition, Guarded life, Liquid courage, Mighty swing, Knockdown.

STR18 DEX14 CON24 INT14 WIS10 CHA22

Feats: Lingering performance, Guarded life(greater), Come and get me, Steadfast determination, Power attack, Reckless abandon.

Skills: Acrobatics+22, Appraise+6, Bluff+19, Climb+8, Craft(Stone and metal)+15, Diplomacy+10, Escape artist+6, Handle animal+10, Intimidate+21, Knowledge (Arcana)+15, (Dungeon)+6, (Engineering)+6, (Geography)+6, (History)+6, (Local)+6, (Nature)+6, (Nobility)+6, (Planes)+6, (Religion)+6, Linguistics+2, Perception+20, Perform(Dance)+10 (Percussion)+26, Profession(Engineer)+4, Ride+6, Sense motive+4, Spellcraft+22, Swim+8, Use magic device+16.

Languages: Common, Orc, Draconic, Giant.

SpellcastingCL17 DC16 Spells per day 7/7/6/5/5/3 Spells known: 0-Read magic, Detect magic, Mending, Mage hand, Scrivener’s chant. I-Charm person, Hideous laughter, Grease, Cure light wounds, Ear piercing scream, Moment of greatness. II-Path to glory, Cure moderate wounds, Mirror image, Glitterdust, Blistering invective. III-Phantom steed, Dispel magic, Charm monster, Tiny hut, Good hope, Purging finale, Haste. IV-Dimension door, Break enchantment, invisibility greater, Shadow conjuration, Cure critical wounds. V-Dispel magic greater, Shadow bard,Cloak of dreams, Heroism greater. VI-Getaway, Hero’s feast, Dance of a thousand cuts.

Equipment: Great Bean Cudgel(Cunning Fury-born+3 Living steel Greatclub), 2 Returning Javelin+1, Light crossbow+1, 50+1 Bolts, Mwk Dagger, Ring of protection+4, Shrek-ing hide(Glamered Giant-Hide, Ogre), Amulet of natural armor+3, Dusty rose prism ion stone, Iridescent spindle of ioun stone, Belt of physical perfection+4, Headband of mental prowess+4(Int, Cha, Acrobatics), Cloak of resistance+2, Manual of bodily health+2(used), Tengu’s jar, Hat of disguise, Ring of force shield, Drums of advance and retreat, Spellguard bracers, Magic beans, Potions of gaseous form(4), Bloodrager s kit, 1532GP.

Background: Smallishbeans is a bit blunt but good hearty fellow from the far land of the Hermits where buildings that defies reason and logic are made to leave all in awe. He loves his wife LDShadowlady (also known as Lizzie), he is a very good dancer and drummer and has lots of dad jokes…ALOT of them. In the past he ruled over the kingdom of Mezlana and was consort of the Ocean empire along along with the now wife Lizzie. Later, he achieved godhood drinking from a magic fountain becoming ruler of the Sky empire ruling from his floating city Stratos. However he later lost not only his god powers but also both his kingdoms as his behaviors became more blunt and less-than-friendly then before. The only one that did not left him was Lizzie(which decided to willingly abdicate) and his friends hermits (especially Mumbo, Grian, Impulse and Rendog) whom helped him to make a new life in the land of Hermits and to set his marriage with his wife. Now he lives in a humble shack but still builds majestic palaces, likely to remember his lost royal life and/or to build the house of dreams for him and his beloved wife. One day he was building another incredible construction atop a scaffolding when he heard a voice: ”A wish limited only by your imagination.” He looked around and saw no one. “Your beloved one has accepted already.” Said the voice. He immediately rushed to his wife house. Empty. “Where is my wife?! WHAT HAVE YOU DONE?!” He yelled at the top of his lungs. “She accepted my challenge. The only way to decide a victor is simple: Find me. Then you can join her.” Joel looked around, this mysterious voice was coming from thin air and he could find no one to jump at. “Ok, fine! I accept your challenge.! But you better have not hurt my wife or else…!” The sound of finger snapping was heard. “You have a deal.” Joel was instantly teleported into another realm never seen before. Equipped with knowledge and powers never seen before he immediately sought his beloved wife wherever she was. And if he had to be as ruthless as when he was a god, he would not hesitate. Not anymore.