#preserving this gem for posterity

[ladyinthebluebox]

goodbye, my dearest hellsite friends user @legionofpotatoes just came in and assassinated me with this (and i'm very serious about it) incredibly thoughtful gift idea:

[zhukzucraft]

=====>

Joe: Welcome, welcome! It's not much for now but it beats being out there

Skizz: It's cosy! Are we your first visitors?

Joe: Almost. Tango joined me here first.

Joe: He's working some redstone magic up ahead. Calls it the Loveificator or somesuch.

Mumbo: Yeah that doesn't sound suspicious or anything.

Skizz: Oooh! Mumbo! Now that we're married, you know what that means?

Mumbo: ....no?..

Skizz: I need to make up a nickname for you!

Mumbo: Oh!

Skizz: How abouuuut... Mambo Jambo!

Mumbo: err

Skizz: Mumble Jumble?

Mumbo: maybe-

Skizz: Jumbo Jet!

Skizz: M J Jamerson!

Mumbo: How did we even get here?

Joe: Mumgle of the Jungle

Mumbo: Oh not you too

=> Pearl & Co: Ponder the portal

Start Over -- Go Back

================================================

MARTYN WINS THE VOTE FOR NEXT POV

original post preserved fro posterity:

MEANWHILE

Time to choose the next POV to follow! Yes, you read it right, the next update will bring us back to Pearl, Gem, Grian and Scar. However, at the same time we will start observing a new player, with both perspectives playing out simultaneously. It should be an eventful night.

With that said:

[fine-nephrit]

🥏 Where to find good XF fanfics

👽 On Tumblr

@lilydalexf has an encyclopedic knowledge of fics and continues to be an invaluable resource. You'll find a boatload of themed fic lists, individual rec posts and helpful answers to anon asks.

@txf-fic-chicks-blog seven years of almost daily recs, with well-written blurbs and a lot of fun, run by @kateyes224 and @piecesofscully. Look out for their themed days: "Casefile Monday", "Tumblr Tuesday", "Editor's Pick Wednesday", "Post-Ep/Missing Scene Thursday", "Novel Length Friday", "Smut Sunday", and the very cool "Because You Watched"

@msrlibrary a well-tagged library of MSR fics; each entry includes a short excerpt and a nicely chosen image from the show.

@201daysofxfiles a rewatch blog by fandom veteran @wendelah. Each episode in season 1-7 is paired with its own fic rec post.

@enigmaticxbee an aesthetically pleasing and neatly organized rewatch blog that is packed with great content, including excellent fic rec lists categorized by season, story type, trope, and more. Each episode guide sometimes features related fic recs.

@thatfragilecapricorn30 posts one fic rec every Friday, accompanied by a nice writeup.

@randomfoggytiger curates many fic rec lists sorted by often fun and creative categories.

@cecilysass has a google doc titled "fics I love", which is a fantastic fic list categorized by story type, complete with thoughtful blurbs. She's also shared two episode-related fic rec lists on Tumblr: here and here.

@pookie-mulder writes a monthly fic journal with good recs.

**self-promo plug** I post fic recs on my Tumblr blog @fine-nephrit under #nephrit's fic rec. Plus, I reblog others' fic recs that I come across!

👽 Rec Communities

XF Book Club: the best thing ever, an absolute gem that deserves to be preserved for posterity. During its run, 270 fics were recced and discussed in depth here. The community's intelligent and insightful comments on this blog are sometimes even more enjoyable to read than the fics themselves.

The Fic Filter (xf tag): well-curated selections with short blurbs.

Multifandom Het Recs (xf tag): a major rec site's xf section that offers nice "why this must be read" writeups. @het-reccers

Crack Van (xf tag): another major rec site with a big xf section, featuring endless recs and blurbs

Fancake (xf tag): another major rec community's xf section boasting an extensive thematic tagging system

👽 Personal Blogs

Emily Shore aka Naraht: meta essays, fanvid recs, fic recs—great stuff aplenty

Bad for the Fish aka Scarlet Baldy: fantastic fic list paired with highly enjoyable reviews and analyses of the fics she's read. @badforthefish

Ramblings of a Mind Untamed: reviews of a dozen or so classic fics

xxSKSxx XF Fanfic Recs: still active in 2024! @xxsksxxx

X-Libris: more of a fic library, this is the best place to download nicely-formatted ebooks of pre-AO3 oldies. What I love most is the incredibly detailed and extensive tagging system.

��� Individual Rec Lists with good writeup

Character Manifesto - Dana Scully: a character analysis and 10 Scully-centric fic recs, categorized by "best of .." selections. Amazing format and choices!

Character Manifesto - Fox Mulder: same format as above for Spooky

bachlava's awesome fic rec essays, covering classic fics and slash fics

ShipRecced blog's classic MSR fics and newer MSR fics recs

luminary's 16-fic rec post

RivkaT recs fics and writers @rivkat

Anna Otto's favorite stories

Syntax6's rec list on her site, great rec list on Tumblr and FTF rec list @syntax6

👽 90s Old School Rec Sites

The Basement Office - Musea: a treasure trove of extensive fic lists with lovely written blurbs, recced by a group of talented writers from back in the day

The Other Side - Fanfic Recs from Beyond the Grave: a large collection of 'scary' or 'spooky' story recs with nice blurbs. Beautiful web design.

the Rookery - Favorite Authors: nice commentary on a list of classic fic writers

X-Files Fanfiction 101: an intro guide to fic categories and what to read for each

The Primal Screamers: a fun site run by a mailing list that hosts fic recs with blurbs, and a 'Coffee Talk' section full of delightful discussions of canon

Idealists Haven - Elemental Fanfic Archive: an archive with rec blurbs

Chronicle X: a large, well-organized archive with blurbs, plus a 'Can We Talk' discussion section of novel-length fics, plus a total of 46 author interviews. Simply incredible!

👽 Special Mention

The X-Files Lost and Found: a fic finder message board that is miraculously still very active today—How wonderful! Its FAQ page hosts a huge collection of well-categorized themed fic lists (not recs), including "Classics (or, Your Fanfic Education is Not Complete Until You've Read ...)".

Where do you find your next read? What did I miss? Reblog and share your favorites!

[plor-bindery]

Bound: Kinkuary ‘23 by wolfpants

Next up in my tour of binds I made for wolf: Kinkuary ‘23 by @wolfpants

When I first reached out to wolf to ask permission to bind their fic, I asked if there was anything in their fic that they wished they had bound. They mentioned their Kinkuary fics but immediately said "oh but that's impractical because it's a whole collection" or something to that effect, which of course I took as a challenge. (Authors, be warned. I will almost certainly bind the thing you say I should not try to bind.)

Anyone who is wisely subscribed to wolf's works on AO3 probably had the same delightful experience as I did throughout February 2023: namely, waking daily to a little notification that there was a small kinky gem awaiting consumption at one's leisure. Wolf writes sex incredibly well: the viscerality and immediacy of it, but also the thoughts and turn-ons and how it lights up each character's brain differently. They have a gift for making me love tropes and kinks I might not ever think to read or write otherwise.

All that being said, I felt slightly weird about being like HERE IS A BOOK OF YOUR KINK THAT SAYS KINK ON THE SPINE so (as wolf has noted) I went all Victorian and made a dust jacket to cover up the bind if wolf ever wants to make it look a lot more innocent than it is.

So many firsts in this one for me: first dust jacket, first index, first collection of fics, first table of contents... It was a blast from start to finish and I learned SO MUCH.

Materials and process chat under the cut.

Materials:

Ye olde wooqu bookcloth off Amazon, HTV vinyl, 24 lb cream letter (wrong grain, forgive me) folios, machine-made endbands, black cardstock end papers.

The dust jacket is probably the only newish thing for me: I did a print using Staples' online service (which probably contributed to my choices because I also use this service for actual work things...) It was a poster print on matte paper.

Process:

This was a pretty straightforward bind but the typeset was full of learning curves. I use InDesign for typesetting and figured out how to set up a TOC and index. Wolf is a GREAT tagger so once I realized I'd either have a seven-page run of front matter listing the tags for each fic, or an index condensing them down, it was a no-brainer. And because wolf is so brilliant with tags, this led to my favorite index entries ever under Draco's listing (see photo.) I also figured out how to use styles to make every story have a header of its title, etc.

The great artwork of Eros is from rawpixel.

The other new thing for me was, of course, the dust jacket. I was disappointed to realize I'd messed up the measurements somehow once I printed, but it was close enough, so I went with it. I tried to rub some beeswax into the cover to help preserve it a bit but not sure it did much. If I were doing it again now, I'd use some Mod Podge matte aerosol fixative.

The dust jacket artwork is from the Smithsonian online collection of vintage seed catalogues. (S/O to my librarian spouse for the tip!) I created the spine matching the style as closely as I could, and then I went to town with silliness for the flaps. (This is probably a downside to having a fic writer also be a binder. I have trouble not writing something when the opportunity presents itself in the course of binding...)

The cover design is, of course, just a whole bunch of cursive X's. I'd hoped to have the title and author be a knockout from that pattern but it proved too hard to weed/read, so I ironed black HTV over the red pattern instead.

This is the only one of the set of four binds that I haven't (yet) bound for myself as a personal copy, but I think I will probably do so at some point! I was running out of black bookcloth at the time, so I prioritized wolf's copy for obvious reasons.

[kreativekopf]

Palestinian covers and posters are truly hidden gems that span decades and even centuries, carrying the weight of a rich and revolutionary history.

These artistic expressions serve as a visual testament to a hundred years of resilience, activism, and the enduring struggle for justice and holding on to one's culture. With powerful symbolism and a deliberate choice of color in each, each piece is a chapter in art tour on the resilience and richness of Palestinian art.

@palestine.poster.project , from which these pieces were sourced, is a commendable research initiative, aiming to archive and preserve these powerful pieces of visual storytelling and shed light on their talented designers.

Credits:

1. UN Conference on the Question of Palestine, Research in Progress, 1983

2. This Land Is Ours, FATAH (Palestinian National Liberation Movement), 1976

3. Palestine: A Homeland Denied, Raili Liaho, 1979

4. 29 Tashreen Thani, Muwaffaq Mattar, 1985

5. Oranges of Jaffa, Emad Abdel Wahhab, 1985

6. Jornada de Solidaridad, Faustino Perez, 1968

7. Beginning of the Hijra, Abdel Rahman Al Muzain, 1979

8. Land Day 1981, Kamal Nicola

9. No peace without the Palestinians, Claude Lazar

10. A Homeland Denied, Pedro Laperal, 1979

[cheemscakecat]

MLP Redesigns/Rewrite Pt 3: Pinkie Pie

Pinkie Pie’s real name is Pink Granite, but she grew to prefer the nickname. Rock Ponies are similar to Mennonites in that they are somewhat closed off from the rest of Equestria, while still being open to new technology and respecting ponies with differing beliefs. They do not in fact eat the rocks.

Diamond Dogs live in mountains and hills that are rocky. There are two main hostile groups that trade with each other: those in the gem-mining territory that need slaves, and those in Rock pony territory who hunt for new slaves to sell. They have no interest in regular rock and minerals, just kidnapping the ponies in exchange for gems.

This has been a terrible problem for Rock ponies for a few generations, so they’ve been very stringent about coat color and hair color. Rock Ponies try to keep dull colors in the gene pool for the camouflage; Diamond Dogs are bad at seeing dull colors, hypersensitive to bright colors, and use their dog pheromones to locate each other.

Pinkie’s parents were advised to send her to one of the regular pony villages when she was a filly. It was common practice to send brightly colored Rock Ponies to the safe areas of Equestria where Diamond Dogs didn’t dare hunt new victims. The mountains and hills were on the edge of Celestia’s jurisdiction and Diamond Dogs could easily chock up disappearances to Rock Ponies getting lost or injured in the dangerous mines.

Pinkie’s parents didn’t want to separate her from her siblings or them, so they tried to keep her at the farm. Other families kept their foals from playing with her because her red hair was essentially a beacon for slavers, and anyone too close would get snatched too.

Eventually the slavers did find Pinkie and snatch her when she veered a bit too far away from her Mom’s line of sight. They had her in chains that were a bit too big, but very very heavy for a foal, so she didn’t think she could slip out.

They hadn’t gotten very far when Rainbow Dash’s first sonic rainboom went off, temporarily blinding the dogs with the colors they were so sensitive to. This was also when Pinkie discovered that laughing and getting energized was a great way to get your heart pumping and slip out of heavy bonds.

She managed to get back home without getting recaptured, and her parents decided to send her to Ponyville to apprentice at the bakery.

The good news was that Pinkie didn’t see color as a curse; it literally saved her from a life of servitude. She didn’t resent the Cakes or other ponies that lived in safety and without the need to worry about color. Pinkie instead kept headfirst into learning the history and culture of Equestria, and tasting every colorful crop that was too risky to grow back on the farm.

She sent jams, jellies, preserves and pickles to the farm in dull paper to make it look like rocks. She learned to make pound cake and flavored bread that would last long enough to make the trip.

The bad news was that nearly getting kidnapped and enslaved left Pinkie with trauma and a very overactive version of the Rock Pony 6th sense. She hates being alone for very long and usually fills a room with conversation or music because silence unsettles her.

She had a panic attack when she found out Rarity got kidnapped and was unable to go with the rest of the mane 6 to rescue her.

You can probably imagine that getting her cutie mark snatched by Starlight and locked in the indoctrination shed was a deeply triggering experience, even with the rest of her friends there for moral support. Before she even got off the train her 6th sense was giving her the urge to bolt as far as possible from the cult, before they even knew something was off.

Rainbow Dash took on the role of the hopeful friend and the one trying to lift everyone’s spirits. Pinkie became abnormally quiet and wouldn’t look at or speak to the cult members who came to check on them. She did join Applejack in tearing the indoctrination books and posters to shreds though.

Pinkie hung close to Rainbow Dash when they were left alone by the cult, but usually shrank down in the far corner of the room, ears and tail twitching whenever they appeared. Rainbow, Twilight and Rarity were the ones most effectively communicating with the cult members; Applejack was the most furious and least approachable outside of Fluttershy’s sickness.

Surprisingly, it was not Applejack who spit on Starlight and slammed the door in her face during her one and only empty speech at the indoctrination shed; it was a seething Pinkie Pie. A group of cultists saw Starlight’s benevolent leader mask slip for a minute before she managed to put the act back on.

Pinkie Pie loved color and always felt a little out of place with her dull, granite colored pelt. Her new form was the most colorful out of the group, and gave her more durability and chaotic magic. Pinkie understandably was not cut out for dismantling the Diamond Dog slave empire, which is why Rarity was sent instead.

Pinkie instead became the pony envoy to the Yak kingdom, [which is not characterized the same way as before] and began introducing both ponies and Yaks to each others’ cultures.

In the age of Draqonequus, several powerful species predated the rise of Horse and Pony-kind. The Draqonequus, who were similar to dragon/goat hybrids, the Manticores, the Dragons, and the Goats. Yaks did not have magic, and thus were at a disadvantage compared to other species.

Manticores and Dragons lived in warrior cultures with a disdain for weaker species that lacked magic or strength. Manticores were like Spartans, brutal and harsh on their own kind, much less those seen as weak. Their cruelty bred the perfect conditions for Tirek the Magic-Glutton. Yaks had no magic for the monster to eat, so he left them alone. Dragons were like Vikings if they were stuck navigating warmer areas because of their cold blood. The Yaks were far more endangered by Dragons than Manticores, and took to settling in the coldest parts of the world to avoid them. This did not mean that Manticores other than Tirek left them alone, however.

Manticores used to invade Yak settlements to use them as unwilling training dummies. They made it a tradition for the new child recruits to start their training by attacking the Yaks. The goal was more to overpower them and grow desensitized to attacking another village, but that didn’t mean there weren’t casualties.

By the time Discord became the sole user of the Elements of Harmony, the Yaks had grown very distrustful of strangers and tried desperately to become aggressive enough to drive off the Manticores. It took some time for Discord’s funny and friendly attitude to penetrate the generational fear of outside species.

Once Discord was able to befriend the Yaks, he decided to help them enchant their borders to block any Manticores from stepping foot in their land.

But as the world shifted and Horses and Ponies became more and more prominent, Discord grew to resent them and the elements. He sealed the Yak kingdom off from the rest of the world entirely, just to keep the Horses and Ponies from doing anything to outdo the Yaks or outlive them. This seal lasted as long as any of Celestia’s ever did; 1000 years.

This meant that there was a huge language barrier when the seal was undone and new diseases were introduced from the outside world. The Prince and his attendants went to get help, and were sent to Ponyville to talk to Zecora and avoid the city’s larger pool of germs.

It was a very stressful time, being around the strange people that the hero of old was angry with, and knowing that they had magic and flight. Some ponies spoke with too many words [Twilight] some had thick accents [Applejack] and they all spoke too fast. Zecora, while not rhyming every sentence, still had a poetic way of talking with similes and metaphors.

Ponies had wildly different sounding words and sayings that the Yaks had no context for. The Pegasi had different body language from other ponies and that made them the most stressful Ponies to deal with. The journey was terribly long and the people were sick.

But at the bakery, which served the Prince and his men their rations, there was a very funny Pony with no magic and no wings. The ancestors had documented their time with the strange and funny hero that kept the Manticores away. Their culture had grown to see laughter and fun as something sacred, something that would bless their people and keep them safe.

Envoy Pinkie Pie introduced the Yaks to all the different foods she could think of. New songs and new jokes and new pranks. Her chaos magic and durability could protect her if something did attack, but they were mainly for entertainment and surviving the larger Yaks if they got overexcited, fell, or pranked too hard.

Having an earth pony come to teach them about the outside world was less stressful than a being meant to have magic. She didn’t expect them to learn magic or integrate it into their work and infrastructure. She used her hooves for most things and the chaos magic for entertainment rather than anything serious, like Twilight would have.

The Yaks didn’t change much outside of visiting other nations and making more food from across Equestria. They had no need to learn magic or defend themselves, and if that were to change, the immortal Princesses and the Hero of old would be there to help. Thankfully the 1000 years of Discord being a legend established a friendlier attitude before anyone made contact. Although it did make them pretty cunning pranksters.

[filmnoirfoundation]

NOIR CITY 22

Join us January 24 – February 2 at Oakland’s historic Grand Lake Theater for NOIR CITY 22 featuring the fabulous femmes fatale who made the genre so spectacularly saucy, sexy, and sinister. Noir impresario and FNF prez Eddie Muller presents ten days and nights of vintage crime movies featuring actresses profiled in his classic tome Dark City Dames — newly updated, expanded, and set for release in April 2025. Joining Muller as co-host for the opening weekend will be his TCM colleague, Alicia Malone—who also graces this year’s NOIR CITY poster.

The program includes legendary noirs such as Out of the Past, The Narrow Margin, and Detour, alongside an array of dark gems and little-seen rarities like Hell’s Half Acre, The Sleeping City, and the 3D noir Inferno. In addition, the festival will be filled with special onscreen features, live music, and special guests—everything fans have come to expect from this annual celebration of noir style.

All proceeds from the festival go to the Film Noir Foundation’s mission of rescuing and restoring lost examples of the genre, which to date includes more than thirty restorations and preservations of films once feared lost.

Schedule, tickets and Passports (full-access passes) are available at NoirCity.com

[garbagefarm]

Garbage Farm #55

2024-06-12, session #55 of Garbage Farm! Spanning Spring 25 through Summer 4 of Year 5!

cast:

me ( @mothmute )

E.B. ( @blueherin )

Kimi ( @2kimi2furious )

Highlights include, but are not limited to the following:

Spring 25:

we resume the war against the dreaded beanlord

E.B. goes to process mystery boxes!

Kimi wants to expand her house, but has to move furniture first

(it's keg day)

E.B. didn't finish the boxes, but got some good stuff anyway

Kimi decides she wants to redo her house entirely anyway

I forgot the bookseller! I always forget the bookseller!

Spring 26:

dreadful bean melons (see gallery)

I commission a pond from Robin

—aaand that locks Kimi out of expanding her house, oops

Mr. Qi offers me a bunch of gems to go to level 100 of the dangerous skull cavern. I'm just gonna use staircases, idc if he judges me for it.

Alex eats a raw duck egg. Kimi considers divorce, I encourage her to stay and get duck-salmonella insurance money

3x "tucked into bed" combo!!

BEANS DEFEATED

“fuck your beans old man” (we're never doing that one again)

Spring 27:

Kimi ignores everything to work on redecorating her house

I fulfill my obligation to the skulls!

(I think this is when E.B. hit the monster goal for bats but I don't remember exactly when that was)

Spring 28:

Pond is done! I borrow Kimi's lava eel to fill it

Robin shuns Kimi once again

E.B. has new ideas to sleep on!

Grandpa Jr. visits Kimi; Wild Possum stays with me

E.B. decides to become a desperado

Summer 1:

E.B. takes farming mastery!

Planting a bunch of blueberries

DUCK ESCAPE

I drop whatever I was doing because there's a train passing through the valley! I hop on Frucko's back and ride up to meet it there!

I get stuck under a train and die. (see gallery)

(Frucko is under there, too, but he's fine)

After fining me, I get a heart event with Harvey where he talks about planes. I think he's subtly saying "those won't run you over"

I talk to Marlon about recovering my train-remains.

Summer 2:

(I forgot to take notes for this day, but I think that just means nothing interesting happened)

Summer 3:

We go to see the Prairie King movie!

(hey, Gunther, Marlon, and Gil are all hanging out in the lobby!)

I start playing the crane game while waiting for everybody to show up, pick up a few trees and a movie poster

okay, time to see the movie, aaaand ... EVENT SCRIPT ERROR??

Now it's telling us the movie has concluded? but it also asks if we want to leave without watching the movie??

movie's haunted

Summer 4?:

non-canon day!

we go and "help" Kimi redecorate by putting random things all over the house.

(Kimi gets a few ideas anyway)

-

TO-DO:

Mr. Qi wants prismatic shards. Guess I need to prep for more skulls!

(reminder to self: check grocery list next time!!)

I'm still at 3/5 masteries

Maybe I'll finally go get some cave jelly so we can start smoking fish??

I still need to set up more kegs! more preserves jars! crystalarium shed!!

(fix those stone paths while I'm at it)

Storage system could still use some refinement tbh

Gallery:

We all hate this, but it's our tradition to pose with large crops.

I am taking damage.

[krispyweiss]

Album Review: Faces: Faces at the BBC: Complete BBC Concert & Session Recordings 1970-1973

Complete is the operative word for describing the sprawling set of (mostly) previously unreleased live material known as Faces at the BBC: Complete BBC Concert & Session Recordings 1970-1973.

The 85-song, seven-and-one-half hour package captures the Faces at various levels of sobriety ranging from a raucous and sloppy Feb. 8, 1973, appearance so ribald the stodgy BBC wouldn’t air it, to an airtight, Oct. 6, 1971, performance that preserves Faces in their best light.

Sound quality is also an issue on these thought-lost recordings, making a slimmed-down set - or at least a listener-curated mix tape - a must, something made more necessary by five versions each of “(I Know) I’m Losing You” and “Stay with Me,” four takes on Paul McCartney’s “Maybe I’m Amazed;” multiple iterations of Chuck Berry’s “Memphis, Tennessee” and the Rolling Stones’ “Street Fighting Man,” which Ronnie Wood is still playing in 2024; and an inordinate number of Kenney Jones drum solos.

Thankfully, the release-everything attitude behind Faces at the BBC means stage announcements and banter are left intact and such oddities as an electric, but quite raggedy, “Gasoline Alley;” Rod Stewart singing “Away in a Manger” during a Christmas special; and a rambunctious singalong of “Banana Boat (Day-O)” are preserved for posterity. It’s a must-have collection for those who need everything Stewart, Jones, guitarist Wood, bassist Ronnie Lane and keyboardist Ian McLagan did under the Faces banner.

The rest of us are left to pick out the gems from the spoils - there are plenty of both.

Grade card: Faces: Faces at the BBC: Complete BBC Concert & Session Recordings 1970-1973 - B-

12/17/24

[avneesh10-blog]

Unveiling Telanganas Top Historical Monuments: A Fascinating Journey

# Unveiling Telangana's Top Historical Monuments: A Fascinating Journey

Introduction

Have you ever wondered about the stories etched in stone and history's whispers preserved in time? Telangana Historical Monuments stand as witnesses to the rich heritage and cultural tapestry of this region. These monuments are not merely structures but living testaments to bygone eras, each telling a unique tale waiting to be explored. In this blog post, we will delve into the captivating world of Telangana's historical monuments, unraveling their significance, beauty, and the stories they hold within their ancient walls.

The Legacy of Kakatiya Dynasty

The Telangana Historical Monuments bear the legacy of the illustrious Kakatiya Dynasty, known for its architectural marvels and cultural patronage. Let's explore some of the prominent monuments reflecting the grandeur of this era:Warangal Fort- Built by the Kakatiya ruler Ganapatideva, the Warangal Fort is a remarkable specimen of Kakatiya architecture. - The fort's massive stone gateways and intricate carvings stand as a tribute to the dynasty's engineering prowess. - Visitors can marvel at the exquisite stone sculptures adorning the fort, narrating tales of victory and valor. - A masterpiece of Kakatiya architecture, the Thousand Pillar Temple in Hanamkonda is an architectural marvel. - The temple's intricate carvings, exquisite sculptures, and unique design reflect the craftsmanship of the Kakatiya artisans. - Though located in present-day Hyderabad, Golconda Fort is a historical gem closely linked to the Kakatiya legacy. - The fort's ingenious acoustics, majestic gates, and strategic design offer insights into the military and architectural prowess of the Kakatiya rulers. - Fact: Telangana Historical Monuments are not relics of the past but living repositories of heritage, culture, and identity. - It is crucial to preserve these monuments as they are integral to understanding our roots and shaping our future. - The Ramappa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a splendid example of Kakatiya architecture. - Its intricate carvings, detailed sculptures, and unique construction techniques make it a must-visit for history buffs. - The Bhongir Fort, perched atop a monolithic rock, offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Telangana's medieval history. - Exploring the fort's ramparts, bastions, and secret passages is an adventure back in time. - Supporting conservation efforts through donations or volunteering. - Raising awareness about the historical significance of these monuments. - Encouraging sustainable tourism practices to protect these sites for posterity. - What is the significance of Telangana Historical Monuments? Historical monuments in Telangana preserve the region's rich heritage, cultural diversity, and architectural excellence, reflecting the historical evolution of the land.- How can visitors contribute to the preservation of Telangana Historical Monuments? Visitors can support conservation efforts by following guidelines, respecting the monuments, and spreading awareness about their importance.- Are there any lesser-known historical monuments in Telangana worth exploring? Yes, Telangana boasts several hidden gems like the Ramappa Temple and Bhongir Fort, offering unique insights into the region's history and architectural brilliance.- What role do historical monuments play in promoting tourism in Telangana? Historical monuments serve as major attractions for tourists, drawing history enthusiasts, architecture aficionados, and culture seekers to explore the region's cultural richness.- Why is it essential to debunk myths and misconceptions about historical monuments? Challenging myths and misconceptions helps in fostering a deeper appreciation for historical monuments, encouraging their preservation and relevance in contemporary times.

Tags

Telangana Historical Monuments, Kakatiya Dynasty, Warangal Fort, Thousand Pillar Temple, Golconda Fort, Ramappa Temple, Bhongir Fort, heritage preservation, cultural tourism Read the full article

[blahaj1499]

these posts brought me so much joy about a decade ago, and i was a bit devastated when the original poster deleted these. I'm so grateful reblogged posts preserve aged gems like these.

college-sized headcanons

Karasuno Edition | Nekoma Edition | Seijoh Edition | Fukurodani Edition | Shiratorizawa Edition 

bokuto is the kid that loses his pens faster than the cafeteria runs out of ketchup

akaashi can churn out 8-page papers in under three hours, but he’s a bit of a perfectionist so procrastination is the game

akaashi is also that roommate that starts cleaning the kitchen and bathroom because of finals stress

komi owns like four different versions of the same college sweater

sarukui is that kind soul that posts all the links to torrent the most expensive textbooks

konoha sets three alarms and still way too often sleeps past them all

washio is often the designated driver because his car is the cleanest and he’s the first to get a license

onaga will get dressed in the middle of the night just to get that free coffee in the commons

konoha will put the sock on his door just to get some peace and roommate-free quiet

akaashi will hiss at you if you come to class with crinkly wrappers/smelly food/if you show up just to whisper to your friends

bokuto is the kid that shows up to class with food, without fail

washio is often found passed out in his sleeping bag in the library

he can also be found studying in the laundry room (”It’s calming,” he says. “And there’s no one trying to take my seat.”)

komi is there for every class but everyone’s afraid to ask for his notes because his printing is a mess

sarukui is the kid that puts all of the cheesy powerpoint transitions on his presentations. all of them.

bokuto will skip class to go see a concert or to pet a dog

onaga is a good roommate and will sleep over at a friend’s place if you bring home somebody for the night

sarukui shows up in slippers a lot

konoha keeps finding himself in that one lefty desk and realizes too late to switch seats

komi’s social life is so on point his roommates probably only see him like three times the whole semester

bokuto will sit in on classes that he’s not taking just for the fun of it

bokuto also manages to pass class without ever cracking open a single book

akaashi puts up glow-in-the-dark stickers in his dorm to ease his homesickness

[zhukzucraft]

=> Pearl & Co: Ponder the portal

-

Gem: I messaged Mumbo and Skizz but no answer yet. I think we should wait-

Gem: Scar!!

Scar: What? No point in letting it go to waste, am I right?

Pearl: Hey whoa whoa whoa

Pearl: Let's hold our horses

Pearl: Why- why do we even need to go to the Nether, anyway?

Scar: Isn't the Enchanting Table there this time, Grian?

Grian: A-yup.

Grian: It's just plopped in a Bastion in there. 'Cause why not.

Scar: Ancient City is a hard act to follow, huh?

Grian: Eh, it works as long as nobody gets access to enchantments too early.

Gem: You don't say! Then maybe WE shouldn't be going there so soon, huh Grian?

Grian: Don't tell me that GeminiSlay is scared of some little piggies!

Grian: I fully expect you to carry, by the by.

Gem: UGH.

Pearl: Come on guys, let's at least wait for Skizz and Mumbo to come back!

Scar: Nooo, you never know who's trying to beat us to it. Those rapscallions could be closing in on the magic table as we speak!

Pearl: :(

=> Pearl & Co: Be Martyn

Start Over -- Go Back

The submission time is now over! See you back in this POV after a couple of posts!

(outdated part below preserved for posterity)

================================================

It's time for another

What Will You Do?

this time addressed to the whole group!

Should they jump right in? Should they wait? Should they do a dance-off? You can suggest actions and arguments for any of the 4 characters, or all of them at once!

Please submit your suggestions as replies to this post, or at this channel in our discord (LINK), or if all else fails - directly to my askbox. This event will last for 3 DAYS, until next Wednesday.

Also - next update we'll be checking in with the POV vote winner, Martyn!

[gutachtenruhrde55]

Train auctions

Manshed Auctions: Exclusive Manshed & Mancave Auctions

Welcome to Manshed Auctions, a Sydney-based auction house specialising in manshed collectibles, including garagenalia, advertising signs, vintage pedal cars, transportation memorabilia, pinball & coin operated machines & antique motorcycles & parts.

If you're a collector, enthusiast, or simply someone looking to add a unique touch to your mancave, Manshed Auctions is your ultimate destination. Specializing in exclusive manshed and mancave auctions, Manshed Auctions brings together a curated collection of rare and nostalgic items that can transform any space into a personalized haven. Based in Australia, Manshed Auctions is where passion meets opportunity, offering everything from vintage signs and petroliana to classic automotive memorabilia.

Unmatched Variety and Exclusivity

Manshed Auctions stands out for its extensive range of items that cater to the diverse tastes of collectors and mancave enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for classic car memorabilia, retro signs, or unique antiques, Manshed Auctions has something to catch your eye. The exclusivity of the items ensures that you are acquiring pieces that are not just decorative but also hold historical significance and value.

Expertise and Passion

The team at Manshed Auctions comprises experts who share a deep passion for collectibles. Their knowledge and enthusiasm are reflected in the quality and authenticity of the items available for auction. With years of experience, they meticulously curate each auction, ensuring that every piece is a gem worth owning.

Convenient Online Auctions

In today’s digital age, convenience is key. Manshed Auctions offers an easy-to-navigate online platform where you can browse, bid, and buy from the comfort of your home. Their user-friendly website provides detailed descriptions and high-quality images of each item, giving you a comprehensive view before making a purchase. The online auctions are conducted with transparency and integrity, ensuring a fair bidding process.

What Can You Find at Manshed Auctions?

Vintage Petroliana

For those fascinated by the golden age of motoring, Manshed Auctions offers a wide range of petroliana. From vintage petrol pumps and oil cans to enamel signs and advertising posters, these items bring a touch of nostalgia and charm to any space. Collectors can find rare and well-preserved pieces that reflect the history and evolution of the automotive industry.

Classic Car Memorabilia

Classic car enthusiasts will be thrilled with the selection of automotive memorabilia available at Manshed Auctions. Whether you’re looking for vintage car parts, badges, or posters, you can find authentic items that celebrate the legacy of iconic car brands and models. These collectibles are perfect for showcasing your love for classic cars in your mancave or garage.

Retro and Nostalgic Signs

Decorative signs are a popular choice for mancaves, and Manshed Auctions offers a diverse array of retro and nostalgic signs. From neon signs to enamel advertising signs, these pieces add character and a sense of history to your space. The signs available at Manshed Auctions often feature iconic brands and slogans, making them not only decorative but also conversation starters.

Unique Antiques and Collectibles

Beyond automotive memorabilia and signs, Manshed Auctions also features a variety of unique antiques and collectibles. You can find everything from vintage toys and games to rare books and artworks. These items are carefully selected to appeal to collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the charm and value of historical pieces.

How to Participate in Manshed Auctions

Registering for Auctions

Participating in Manshed Auctions is straightforward. First, you need to register on their website. The registration process is simple and secure, ensuring that your information is protected. Once registered, you can browse the upcoming auctions and preview the items available.

Bidding Process

The bidding process at Manshed Auctions is designed to be user-friendly. Each item has a starting bid, and you can place your bids in real-time. The website provides updates on the current highest bid, allowing you to make informed decisions. Bidding can be done manually or through the automated system, where you set your maximum bid, and the system increases your bid incrementally if outbid.

Winning and Payment

If you win an auction, Manshed Auctions will notify you promptly. The payment process is secure, with multiple payment options available. Once payment is confirmed, arrangements for shipping or collection of the item will be made, ensuring a seamless transaction experience.

Tips for a Successful Auction Experience

Research and Preparation

Before participating in an auction, it’s essential to do your research. Familiarize yourself with the items available and their estimated values. This will help you set a budget and avoid overbidding. Manshed Auctions provides detailed descriptions and historical context for each item, making your research easier.

Set a Budget

Setting a budget is crucial to ensure that you don’t get carried away during the bidding process. Decide beforehand how much you are willing to spend on each item and stick to it. This strategy will help you enjoy the auction experience without financial stress.

Stay Engaged

Auctions can be competitive, and staying engaged is key to securing the items you want. Keep an eye on the bidding activity and be ready to place your bids promptly. Manshed Auctions’ platform allows you to track your bids and receive notifications, making it easier to stay in the game.

Conclusion

Manshed Auctions is the premier destination for exclusive manshed and mancave auctions in Australia. With a wide range of vintage and nostalgic items, a team of passionate experts, and a convenient online platform, Manshed Auctions makes it easy for collectors and enthusiasts to find and acquire unique treasures. Whether you’re looking to enhance your mancave or add to your collection, Manshed Auctions offers an unparalleled auction experience that combines history, quality, and excitement.

Contact Us :

14/36 Leighton Pl, Hornsby NSW 2077, Australia

Email : sales@manshedauctions.com.au

Phone : 0499 099 906

Visit Manshed Auctions today and discover the perfect pieces to elevate your space. Happy bidding!

[rankertopanwar]

Manshed auctions

Manshed Auctions

In the realm of collectors and enthusiasts, where passion meets pursuit, Manshed Auctions stands as a beacon of discovery. Specializing in an array of niche interests, from vintage memorabilia to rustic relics, Manshed beckons aficionados and curious souls alike to delve into the captivating world of auctions. With a virtual gallery at your fingertips, let’s embark on a journey to uncover the treasures awaiting within the digital halls of Manshed Auctions.

Manshed Auctions: A Haven for Collectors

Nestled within the digital landscape, Manshed Auctions boasts a diverse collection that caters to a spectrum of interests. For those seeking the allure of the bygone eras, Mancave auctions offer a nostalgic retreat into the world of vintage memorabilia and collectibles. From retro signage to classic advertisements, each item holds a story, waiting to be cherished by its new custodian.

Rail auctions chug along the tracks of history, presenting enthusiasts with a ticket to explore the world of locomotives and railways. Whether it’s vintage model trains or antique railway artifacts, these auctions provide a platform for railway aficionados to add to their collections and preserve a piece of transportation heritage.

Memorabilia auctions serve as a treasure trove for fans of pop culture, sports, and entertainment. Dive into a sea of autographed memorabilia, rare artifacts, and iconic pieces that evoke memories of beloved moments and celebrated figures. From vintage movie posters to sports jerseys worn by legends, each item encapsulates a piece of history, waiting to find its place in a new home.

Exploring Beyond the Rails: A Diverse Selection

While railways and memorabilia capture the spotlight, Manshed Auctions extends its offerings to encompass a myriad of interests. Petrol auctions revitalize the nostalgia of old gas stations, featuring vintage petrol pumps, signage, and oil memorabilia. Whether for restoration projects or decorative purposes, these auctions cater to petrolheads and collectors with an appreciation for automotive history.

Australiana auctions celebrate the rich tapestry of Australian heritage, showcasing indigenous art, vintage bush items, and cultural artifacts. From Aboriginal paintings to classic Aussie collectibles, these auctions pay homage to the diverse traditions and landscapes of the land down under, inviting collectors to immerse themselves in its vibrant spirit.

Deceased estate auctions offer a glimpse into the lives and legacies of those who have passed on, presenting a curated selection of heirlooms, antiques, and treasures. Each item carries a narrative of its own, weaving together the threads of history and memory into a tapestry of remembrance.

Beyond the confines of traditional auctions, Manshed embraces the rustic charm of yesteryears with enamel sign auctions, bowser auctions, and oil auctions. These auctions cater to enthusiasts of vintage signage, petrol paraphernalia, and industrial artifacts, providing a platform to acquire unique pieces that add character to any space.

Unearthing Hidden Gems: The Thrill of Collecting

At the heart of Manshed Auctions lies the thrill of discovery, where each bid is a chance to unearth hidden gems and add a touch of history to one’s collection. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of auctions, the virtual halls of Manshed beckon with promises of adventure and nostalgia.

Collectible auctions offer a playground for enthusiasts to indulge in their passions, with a diverse array of items ranging from rare coins to antique furniture. With each auction, collectors have the opportunity to expand their horizons, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and bring home pieces that resonate with their personal interests and tastes.

Vintage auctions serve as a gateway to the past, offering a curated selection of timeless treasures that evoke the charm and elegance of bygone eras. From retro fashion to mid-century furniture, these auctions celebrate the enduring appeal of vintage aesthetics, inviting collectors to adorn their spaces with pieces that stand the test of time.

In the dynamic world of Manshed Auctions, the thrill of bidding is matched only by the satisfaction of winning a coveted item and adding it to one’s collection. Whether you’re drawn to the allure of railways, the nostalgia of memorabilia, or the rustic charm of vintage relics, Manshed Auctions invites you to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery. With each auction, a new adventure awaits, promising excitement, camaraderie, and the joy of uncovering treasures that speak to the heart.

Visit for more details - https://manshedauctions.com.au/

[qnewsau]

OMFG! The Federalist going after Dolly!

New Post has been published on https://qnews.com.au/omfg-the-federalist-going-after-dolly/

OMFG! The Federalist going after Dolly!

Trump-lovin’, American news website The Federalist has attacked Dolly Parton for her acceptance of LGBTQIA+ people.

“Parton’s version of love, which includes condoning immoral s*xual behavior (“be who you are,” she’s said), is unaligned with God’s vision for humanity.”

The website attacks Dolly for preaching a ‘false gospel’ of love and acceptance.

However, it might be that the Trumpists will finally discover which is the bridge too far. Dolly has been much loved for decades, and it’s difficult to see anyone dislodging her from the hearts of her fans.

Twitter was quickly awash with defenders of country music’s living saint

“They came for Dolly. We ride at dawn.”

To counter the Federalist article, posters flooded social media with lists of Dolly’s good deeds.

“Dolly Parton gave $500 to every student in her hometown who finished high school, she’s built hospitals and bald eagle preserves, she helped fund the Covid vaccine, and since 1995 her Imagination Library has gifted nearly 300 million books to children. She is a gem.”

Dolly Parton gave $500 to every student in her hometown who finished high school, she’s built hospitals and bald eagle preserves, she helped fund the Covid vaccine, and since 1995 her Imagination Library has gifted nearly 300 million books to children. She is a gem. pic.twitter.com/xaEsx0NMQP

— Owl! at the Library ‍♀️ (@SketchesbyBoze) June 7, 2024

Dolly Parton is trending because fools at The Federalist are going after her so I’ll just leave this here since they want to hate….If you come for The Queen, you best not miss! pic.twitter.com/B7XPPZOcW2

— Wu Tang is for the Children (@WUTangKids) June 7, 2024

Well, they did it. They finally fucking did it. Conservatives have crossed the Rubicon and besmirched the name of the closest thing we have to a living Saint. They attacked Dolly. pic.twitter.com/46OSYjP25U

— Meacham (@MeachamDr) June 7, 2024

So, what will happen? Every time we think Donny and his mob have gone too far, they survive to outrage another day.

But Dolly Parton? Please, God.

More of the Backwoods Barbie? Okay!

Dolly Parton Backs Same-Sex Marriage in Australia.

‘People Love To Gossip’: Dolly Parton Dispels Gay Rumours.

Rockstar: Dolly can’t get no satisfaction!

For the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Check out our latest magazines or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

[peace-coast-island]

Diary of a Junebug

Radiant ocean gems adorning the walls of the Sea Pearl Manor

Swimming in the clear waters of the Harmonious Pearl Sea and letting yourself get carried away by the gentle currents rocking back and forth is really quite relaxing. If I was the kind of person who could easily doze off, I probably would - but I’m not, though I’ve closed my eyes several times just to let myself be one with the ebb and flow of the waters.

PSA though, be careful with currents as most of them aren’t as gentle, and the last thing you want is be carried far away, or worse, panicking and fighting against it. Although I consider myself a strong swimmer, I am not risking wasting my stamina on a losing battle. Just a word of caution.

The Sea Pearl Manor looks even more grand in person, almost dreamlike when the light hits the waters at certain times of the day. It kinda reminds me of the underwater ruins in Marippe, at least how they would’ve looked back in the day. Even though they call it a manor, it gives off more like a palace vibe, which makes sense because it used to be one.

Nowadays it’s more like a courtyard where people can walk around and explore remnants of the past civilizations. The main area’s open to the public while in the back it’s closed off by a large gate because it’s private property. Most of the families who live there are descendants of very first nation that settled in these waters, so they go back several millennia. Despite the political turmoils the sea went through and all the ancient history being inevitably lost to time, a couple noble families had the good sense later down the line to try and preserve as much as they can for posterity.

Their efforts might have seemed futile at first as constant political strifes would continue for centuries, but over time they lessened, especially as details about past conflicts slowly became public. After all, history is doomed to repeat itself unless we learn from past mistakes. Things were quiet for about 50 years or so until another conflict came up, and like it had always been, it was born out of ignorance, usually at the expanse of an innocent life. The center of that conflict was a noble family, or more specifically the former head of that family, who is either exiled from the sea or in prison for life - no one really knows for sure - and his illegitimate daughter. More on that later, but anyway, he almost started over a war over her existence, and he obviously failed, thankfully. That was about 20 years ago and since then peace has settled over the land, hopefully for a very long time.

To think a place as beautiful as this would be the center of so many wars and political unrest. Despite the rough history, the people have proven to be resilient to the hardships, which is why their descendants stand tall today, more determined than ever to make sure their children and grandchildren will grow up in an era of long lasting peace and stability.

We’re staying at an inn not too far from the manor, courtesy of Sara’s friend Chelle, whose family has been running the place for three generations now. Also joining us are Raiden and Melle, whose grandfather and aunts live in the villa near the manor. Mel’s obviously here with family while Raiden’s here to check in on someone who just moved here.

Melle usually spends the summer here, but this year she won’t be able to make it because she’ll be busy helping her parents take care of the newest member of the family. Know how inevitably hectic life will be with a baby coming, Melle’s aunts - her mother’s older sisters - decided to invite the family over for a visit as well as a baby shower. Her mother Antonia is the youngest of Master Ewald’s seven daughters as well as the only one who lives above the surface in a seaside village called Fleurette.

The Ewald family goes way back to the very first civilization that was built, and they were the ones who worked hard to preserve history and keep the manor in good condition. Although they later lost political power, they were still widely respected by other noble families, so that explains their longevity and influence. It wasn’t until the events of 20 years ago when the other faction fell and their successor decided to form an alliance when the Ewalds became more active in politics again now that a major obstacle had been removed.

That successor is Senne of the Thijmen family, a distant relative of the Ewalds. He and his predecessor, his father, never saw eye to eye on anything, which contributed to the clan’s decline. The former head had an illegitimate daughter, Maaike, who he cast aside because of a prophecy, only to find out years later that she was alive and well. Basically, the prophecy claimed that she would bring calamity to the seas that would forever change the future.

To put simply, part of the reason why the Harmonious Pearl Sea had a tumultuous history was in part because of a seal placed in the waters that basically cut them off from the rest of the world. One side wanted to maintain the status quo by keeping the seas isolated and under sort of an authoritarian control while the other side, notably the Ewalds, wanted to break the seal and allow the people to freely travel to the surface rather than keep living in a bubble of ignorance.

It was around that time when the young generation - Senne, Melle’s mother, and others - began rebelling in their own way, like secretly making contact with the surface and learning about life beyond the waters. In fact, that’s how Melle’s parents met, kind of by accident when her mother was hanging around the shore and literally bumped into her future husband while being taken in by the scenery. Although the master encouraged his daughter to explore more of the outside world, it did take him a while to warm up to the idea of her getting acquainted the people over there.

Coincidentally, Maaike was living in Fleurette as well, having been raised by her mother’s friend who fled the seas after rescuing Maaike from execution as a baby. So Maaike lived with her adoptive mother and siblings, Charissa and Lenn, spending most of her life unaware of her past until her birth father somehow found out and launched an attack on the village. Her adoptive mother revealed the truth and later sacrificed herself to ensure that her children were able to escape safely. After that, the former Thijmen head conduced a manhunt for Maaike, bringing trouble to the surrounding villages.

Around the time Maaike was discovered, Melle’s parents had just gotten married. Things got so bad that Antonia had to stay with her family and avoid contacting her husband so those like the former Thijmen head remained unaware that she established relationships with those living above the waters. And then the situation became even more difficult when Antonia realized she was pregnant with Melle, which would inevitably complicate things. Luckily the conflict ended before she was starting to show and certain people began getting suspicious.

Senne had long heard rumors about his half-sister and never agreed with his father’s reasoning that she didn’t deserve to be alive. He and Antonia were hoping to intervene before he could harm her, but things never worked out that way. A lot of things happened - Maaike was able to break the seal, Antonia reunited with her husband, and Senne was finally able to meet his sister and her adoptive siblings.

Although things have long settled down since then, there’s still a lot of loose ends that still need addressing. One of those loose ends has to do with Senne and Maaike’s relationship. Melle and her brothers became good friends with Maaike, Charissa, and Lenn, and she’s been trying to get them to come down here to visit, except every time they come up with plans, something comes up and they can’t make it.

Melle knows that Maaike means well and doesn’t mean to stall, but she gets why Senne gets the feeling that she might be subconsciously avoiding him. It’s not that they don’t get along - they haven’t known each other that well enough to even be considered acquaintances - more like there’s too much bad history with their family, so he doesn’t blame her if she decides not to keep in touch. As much as he wants to get to know his sister, he will also respect her wishes if she doesn’t feel the same.

Still, he can’t help but have regrets about how things were in the past even though it was completely out of his hands. At least things are different now and as long as Maaike’s happy, that’s good enough for him. Of course, Melle, Sara, Raiden, and Chelle aren’t satisfied with just that. Senne has always been a selfless person who doesn’t ask for much, always putting others before himself - is it so wrong for him to finally get something he wants more than anything for once? That’s Sara’s reasoning for why we need to find a way to get Senne and Maaike together.

After all, it’s been 20 years, and like it or not, time keeps moving forward, so you’d better not take it for granted. I know that she knows from her own life experiences that tomorrow isn’t always guaranteed, that when you least expect it, someone you always thought would stick around is suddenly no longer by your side anymore. That no matter how much time passes, you’ll still find yourself wishing that you’ve said this or done that while they were still alive. Having regrets may be an inevitable part of life, but that doesn’t mean you should let them pile up and weigh on your mind - we just have to make the most out of the present. Say what’s on your mind, take chances on your dreams, and learn not to let your worries get you down, and may the burdens of your regrets slowly fade away. That’s Sara’s life philosophy.

Although it doesn’t seem like it, Melle says Maaike does wants to see Senne again, but it really is just a matter of bad timing. This occasion was another instance of things just not working out at the last minute - she was all packed and ready to go, only to be called away in some faraway city. That’s the nature of adventurers, they can be hard to keep up with. But fret not, there’s a couple opportunities coming up that will hopefully work out. One is having Senne come up to Fleurette to see the baby. The second opportunity isn’t set in stone yet, though Melle’s confident that it’s happening in the near future, which is Maaike and Leo finally getting engaged. Hopefully something will work out and the siblings finally spend some quality time together.

On the subject of making the most of the time we have left, that seems to be a common theme with the people we’ve visited here. The friend Raiden went to see is a surviving Kohaku member, a former high ranking member named Kiyoto, known for his cloud breaking sword style. These days, he’s taking classes at a local community college while raising his daughter Mimina.

Like most sword fighters who join the Kohaku demon slayers, Kiyoto had a difficult upbringing due to various tragedies involving demons. He and his younger brother were the only survivors of an attacked that wiped out their family, and he managed to single-handedly slay the monsters who killed them. Then he and his brother were taken in by a senior Kohaku member who Kiyoto later succeeded as a high ranking member after he was killed in battle.

And like many with similar backstories, Kiyoto considered himself a lone wolf, or so he thought. First, there was his brother, who wanted to stand by his side, only for him to foolishly push him away - something he will continue to regret to this day. Second was Kanae, a renowned sword fighter known for creating the intoxicating nectar technique. He described their relationship like an insect in a garden surrounded by all kinds of flowers, but yet only drawn to one particular flower with the most unusual qualities.

Somehow, they fell in love, which caught everyone off guard considering how different they were with him being rough and somber and her being gentle and cheerful. Well, opposites do attract in some cases. Raiden was among the few who wasn’t too surprised by this turn of events, though she didn’t expect Kiyoto to be one falling heads over heels since it was Kanae who usually initiate things with her playful teasing.

The life of a swordfighting slayer is often grim and full of uncertainties, so it’s important to find something worth living for, like having someone to turn to who will catch you when you fall. I recall Lian saying that it was the close relationships between the members that makes the Kohaku different from other groups, and why they stood victorious in the end despite nearly being wiped out. They were a small group, but they were like a family, always looking out for one another, even willing to sacrifice themselves to ensure that their comrades have a better chance of survival.

Falling in love wasn’t something Kiyoto could have predicted, nor was becoming a father. While the Kohaku supported Kiyoto and Kanae’s their relationship wholeheartedly, they were understandably divided when Minima came into the picture. It wasn’t that they objected to the child, but they did see it as irresponsible for them to have and raise a child they’re likely to orphan, or worse, get killed by a monster. That’s not to say Minima was unwanted, she was unplanned all right, but her parents accepted the responsibility, as well as the possibility that they might not be able to see their child grow up.

Sadly, Kanae was killed in battle when Minima was a little over a year old, and Kiyoto closed himself up again. Then months later the Great Calamity happened and Kiyoto’s brother was one of the many casualties. At least by then, they were making up with each other. Kiyoto barely made it out alive himself and probably would have succumbed to his injuries if Kanae hadn’t smacked him, reminding him that there was a certain someone who needed looking after. Sometimes all it takes is a little push to turn the tide, and that’s how he pulled through.

These days, Kiyoto’s focused on Minima, who’s in preschool now. For now he’s doing odd jobs here and there, though his main priority right now is classes, which are all online. As for why he’s pursuing an education now, that was Lian’s idea, probably to open him up to more opportunities and set a good example for Minima. As for what he wants to study, that’s still up in the air, though he says there’s some things he’s interested in looking more into, like being a medical assistant, for example, since he used to assist Kanae and her sisters tend to the wounded. But it might bring up too many memories, so that’s why he’s on the fence about that.

Well, he doesn’t have to get everything figured out right away, not when there’s a lot on his mind already. Raiden’s happy that he’s doing all right, though she wishes that he keep in touch more often. The subject of Koyo and Yoshikane’s upcoming wedding also came up, and Kiyoto promises that he and Minima will make it. Hopefully he has a better track record than Maaike when it comes to keeping in touch.

Seeing the Ewalds come together for a special occasion - they’re such a huge family, I mean, the master’s got 7 daughters, plus their spouses, and soon to be 40 grandkids! - the atmosphere at the manor’s so warm and inviting. I see why Senne envies the master, and why he wants to bond with his sister - after all, even though you can’t undo the past, you can do something about the future.

I know it’s obvious, but it’s important to cherish the bonds you have and make the most of the time you have together.

Read on AO3