#short king Rasa

[gaaraisbbg]

Pushing short Rasa agenda

Ik that it officially says he’s 5’9 ft (176 cm) but who cares abt canon height?! Not me lmao

He’s definitely where Gaara got his shortness from, Kankuro and Temari absolutely got their height from their mother.

Karura and Yashamaru would use Rasa as an arm rest from time to time when they were younger just to piss him off, and Karura would always put Rasa’s favorite mug (everyone does and I know it) on the highest self so he’d have to climb up the counter to get it. Over time he finally realized he could just use the Golden Dust to grab it (he was embarrassed at how long it took him to realize it).

Karura would definitely stand in the doorways of their house just to creep tf out of him at night after a long day of work at the kazekage office. When they wondered the village together Baki and Yashamaru (the ANBU who protected them) would be laughing their asses off at the major height difference between the two.

Just a lil headcanon lol 

[fruitzbat]

happy mollymauk week, everyone! as it's threeleaf day, I thought I'd use this time to spread the word about my fan novel trilogy to any enthusiasts who might not be aware.

The series is called “Devil & The Details”, but it’s more commonly referred to as “Devilverse” for short. The first two books are complete, and the third is currently being serialized.

Linked beneath the cut, we have an epic about Kingsley getting into new trouble on the seas, his captaincy of the Mollymauk, and ultimate rise to the throne of Darktow. While both Molly and Lucien make appearances — along with some other members of the Nein — the story is chiefly about Kingsley and his efforts to forge a unique path for himself. Since this is also a story where all three make an appearance, this trilogy potentially carries the dubious honor of being the longest threeleaf fic on ao3.

The goal of the series was to explore some of the things referenced by Taliesin about the ideas he wanted to explore with both Molly and Kingsley's existences, such as the notion of "soullessness" in mermaids and the philosophical concept of the tabula rasa. The overarching story is also about healing from different kinds of trauma, grief, breaking cycles of abuse, myths and realities of "the pirate's life" and "the resistance" as a concept, accountability, and how T4T love transcends petty things like death and fate. Think Black Sails meets Baldur's Gate with a Candide rising.

CW for: canon-typical violence and gay sex,* gore, mild body horror, frank discussions and depictions of slavery and genocide, cannibalism, suicide (especially in book III), and mentions (but not depictions) of sexual assault.

*There are also two short stories in the series that trend more towards the NSFW/PWP side and are about King and his love interest in the novels; their promo post can be found...

UPDATE: post deleted, flagged by tumblr censors since it's about two trans people in love, lmao.

The novels are written in what could be loosely described as historical fiction style, with other heavy influences taken from 90s anime and camp fantasy. They follow a standard fantasy trilogy setup, with the first book being more plotty, the second more character-driven, and the third currently shaping up to be a mix of the two.

BOOK I: Crowned Teeth (or, An Offering Revoked) [complete, 130,670 words]

We find Kingsley in dire straits after being betrayed by his crew and sold into slavery in the Hespet Archipelago. Breaking out with nothing to his name except a pair of enchanted pistols and a ragtag handful of other escapees, Kingsley vows to see himself avenged upon the leadership of the Tempest Fang.

BOOK II: Wine-Dark Sea [complete, 161,010 words]

With the Fang defeated and Kingsley trying to make things right in their absence, Fjord and Jester accept a quest to uncover a lost relic near the island of Glintshore. With the archdemon Maxima and the Abyssal Plane's intrigue unfolding in the wings, the three of them discover that there is more than what meets the eye.

BOOK III: Home to Roost [in progress, projected 300,000 words]

At long last, Kingsley and the other ex-Revelry members that make up the Diamond-eaters are sailing on Darktow. The long awaited showdown with the Plank King looms, and the archdemon Samiel plots to take the throne from Graz'zt. To his great misfortune, Captain Tealeaf catches the eye of both of them. To protect his new friends and ensure his path to the throne, Kingsley has to call on unexpected allies.

This is very much a labor of love on my end; King, specifically, is very important to me for many reasons. In case we never got the opportunity to explore his life and times on-stream, it was imperative to me that he get at least one story to call all his own.

If you want a proper pirate epic to tuck into, this is it!

[sunnydaleherald]

The Sunnydale Herald Newsletter, Thursday, January 11

Buffy: So what's the scuttlebutt? Anybody besides Larry fit our werewolf profile? Willow: There is one name that keeps getting spit out. Aggressive behavior, run-ins with authorities, about a screenful of violent incidents. Buffy: Okay, most of those were not my fault. Somebody else started 'em. I was just standing up for myself.

~~Phases~~

[Drabbles & Short Fiction]

One Last Feast (Scoobies, K+) by Apache Firecat

Crossroads (Buffy/Spike, PG-13) by VeroNyxK84

Daily Drabble #6: Magnetism (Angel/Spike, G) by MadeInGold

A Morning After (Buffy/Spike, M) by TwilightChild

Prowling the PleasureScapes (Spike/Oz, M) by teddyscott

[Chaptered Fiction]

Three Little Words, Chapter 6 (Buffy/Spike, AO) by Maxineeden

A Darkened Night of the Soul, Chapter 27 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by In Mortal

Bonds of Shadows, Chapter 5 (Buffy/Spike, PG-13) by Chewbacha

Pack My Box with Five Dozen Liquor Jugs, Chapter 11 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by honeygirl51885

A Waxy Gent Chuckled Over My Fab Jazzy Quips, Chapter 11 (Buffy/Spike, PG-13) by violettathepiratequeen

The Vision Quest, Chapter 7 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by acb6293

What If Love Was Enough?, Chapter 9 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by Spikelover4ever

Who's Pole?, Chapter 3 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by Desicat

To All We Guard, Chapter 14 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by simmony

Unforeseeable Paths, Chapter 14 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by Axell

Crash and Burn, Chapter 29 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by NautiBitz

The Circle of Scooby, Chapter 13 (Crossover with Lazarus Long Books, FR15) by redjacobson

Healing After Heaven, Chapter 18 (Crossover with Highlander, FR13) by Kate

A Breath is But a Soundless Whisper, Chapter 13 (Buffy/Spike, 18+) by Blackoberst

What the Drabble?, Chapter 67 (Buffy/Spike, R) by VeroNyxK84

Overboard!, Chapter 4 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by bookishy

Other, Chapter 4 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by Grief Counseling

Love Lives Here, Chapter 7 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by Passion4Spike

Origins, Chapter 53 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by Niamh

I Do!, Chapter 18 (Buffy/Spike, NC-17) by Dusty

[Images, Audio & Video]

Manip:Ain’t no king, man, she’s my queen by satinsafe

Artwork:[Spike sketch] by isevery0nehereverystoned

Artwork:Spike Nouveau by riskpig

Artwork:[Buffy tarot cards] by genericaces

Artwork: 6.08 “Tabula Rasa” by whatisyourchildhoodtrauma

Icons: Cordelia Chase by slashericons

Gifset:I've hired myself out as an attraction. by thepunkmuppet

Gifset:season seven > dawn summers by starryeyesxx

Gifset:Post-Break Up Bangel Remembering by bangelgifs

Gifset:btvs movie posters: spuffy edition (part seven) by spuffygifs

Gifset:buffy summers in every episode: 2x14 » innocence by sarahmichellesgellar

Gifset:2x01 | “When She Was Bad” by clarkgriffon

Gifset:4.17 | Superstar by discovampires

Gifset:every single cordelia chase look #26 by thepunkmuppet

Gifset:every single cordelia chase look #27 by thepunkmuppet

Gifset:Anthony Head in Buffy The Vampire Slayer S1.4 by 51kas81

Gifset:Anthony Head in Buffy The Vampire Slayer S1.4 by 51kas81

Gifset:season seven > anya jenkins by starryeyesxx

Gifset:season seven > spike by starryeyesxx

Video: buffy & angel | glitch by lostlcve

Video: Buffy, The Vampire Slayer - The Heart Never Learns by Boo Harder

Video: Buffy/Cordelia | Hero [BTVS] by Light

Video: normal again edit by d4untl3ss_c4k3

[Reviews & Recaps]

[Rewatch update] by coraniaid

Help your friends with their bad ideas... | Buffy the Vampire Slayer 5x17 "Forever" | Reaction! by The Normies

I'm traumatized 🫣 Buffy The Vampire Slayer S07E03 'Same Time, Same Place''♡Reaction & Review♡ by SoFieReacts

NOOOOOOOO - Angel Reaction - 5x12 - You're Welcome by TheLexiCrowd

Heartthrob: Angel 3x01 Reaction by Dakara

ANGEL 4X12 REACTION | First Time Watching by EvilQK

1x10 Buffy the Vampire Slayer First Time Reaction - Nightmares! by Veggie Gamer

Horror Icon Buffy the Vampire Slayer by Horror Trans

Podcast: Effectively Priced - Angel S05E13 - Why We Fight by Pop Culture Role Call

Publication: 10 Best Buffy the Vampire Slayer Villains, Ranked via CBR

[Community Announcements]

Welcome to the shiny new Tumblr of Otherworldly Chemistry! by otherworldlychemistry-revamped

[Fandom Discussions]

Angel and the Claddagh Ring by abreathofsnowandashes

[Buffy makes Spuffy special] by legallights

Spike's S7 death - did you know what came next? by multiple authors

“Home” S4E22 “But it means something that you tried” by multiple authors

Why doesn't Buffy kill Spike? by multiple authors

Kennedy by multiple authors

I've got a theory: Warren and Willow are flip sides of the same coin by multiple authors

What is it problem with Riley exactly? I’ve never understood that. by multiple authors

Say what you want about Dawn, but this scene is so heartbreaking and you can't help but feel so sad for her. by multiple authors

What is the worst thing this character has ever said or done? [Buffy Summers] by multiple authors

Buffys environmental awareness by multiple authors

Connor by multiple authors

Submit a link to be included in the newsletter!

Join the editor team :)

[mi4012thameenahallaldeen]

Week 1 - Assessment 1 : Reworking the opening narrative of a chosen film

Link to my chosen film (short film) :

Notes :

Assessment 1 : Redesign the opening scene for any film/short film we like. I chose the short film “Fuelled” and chose to keep the emotions/RASA the same. The opening scene gives off the feeling of revenge, anger, terror and shock. With my redesigned scene I decided to focus on revenge.

I scrapped the first idea since it had elements that were too similar to the original. (Police lights, location)

I went with a different approach and this doesn’t take place immediately after the murder. I made the scene connect more closely to the second scene (which is the scene of the protagonist in the car with the police sketch and the map). So I reimagined what happens right before she gets into the car while adding details as to why and what she was doing. The original opening scene had bright colors so I decided to keep the tone the same as the second scene.

Assessment 2 : Posted as blog. Check previous blogs.

Assessment 3 : Beverage and hair care commercial. Due on week 2.

Assessment 4 : Redesign the opening scene for The Lion King (animated)

These are my notes so far

Assessment 5: Watch “Up”

[maskeddcmons]

was Rasa a bad parent? yes. was he a good leader? debatable but most of his actions were meant to put more stock into Sand village.

He did also prevent all children who had no skill in ninjutsu from joining the academy so this was mostly to prevent unneeded deaths.

is it funny that he's so short? yes. my stocky king.

[oveliagirlhaditright]

I've finished reading all of the Buffy "Choose Your Adventure Books," and I think I'd rank them as such:

"Night Terrors" It partly might be number one for me, because I read it first. But I just love this one's premise--and think it has a great plot for a "Choose Your Own Adventure" style book--and I love how many paths that there are here.

"Colony" is probably my second favorite. I'm not the biggest fan of us dealing with bug people again, because *shudders.* But like Night Terrors, I adore how many different routes there are in the novel--like how there are kind of three different stories that you can choose from--and I really enjoyed that in one of them, you as Buffy, got the whammy put on you (and yet are still the main character, and have to try and get Buffy out from under the spell, so to speak). Because my mind might be blanking right now... but for the most part (except for things like "Something Blue" and "Tabula Rasa"), I feel like that never really happened in the show, as everything centered around Buffy.

"Keep Me In Mind" is a lot of fun. And in some ways, I like parts of it better than "Colony" (because of that bug factor that I'm not big on). But I think I put "Colony" ahead of "Keep Me In Mind," because "Keep Me In Mind" is really just one story, though you can sort of segue and side story in a lot, before you get to the conclusion. And that's fun. But I like the more branching paths and storiess from "Night Terrors" and "Colony." Plus, I don't know if I was the biggest fan of this breaking the fourth wall plot being its plot.

"The Suicide King." I wish I could like "The Suicide King" more than I do. In fact, when I was first reading about "Colony", "Keep Me In Mind", and "The Suicide King" online, I thought "The Suicide King" would be my favorite of the three. But though "The Suicide King" definitely has an interesting idea, it's really just way too short, and with not enough options to it, imo. -shrugs- But all-in-all, I thoroughly loved all four of them (don't get me wrong). And would def recommend any of them to a Buffy fan (or maybe anyone in general. Especially people who maybe like "Choose Your Own Adventure" books?). Because they were super fun.

[art-history-shrine]

Dada Movement

The Dada movement emerged in Zurich, Switzerland in 1916 in response to the horrors of World War I. The movement includes sculpture, collage, poetry, and performance art that was typically satirical and nonsensical. Dada works also emphasized anti-war and anti-bourgeois sentiments, as well as rebellion against the art institution:

"We had lost confidence in our culture. Everything had to be demolished...public opinion, education, institutions, museums, good taste, in short, the whole prevailing order...We would begin again after the tabula rasa (clean slate)." — Marcel Janco

Marcel Duchamp, "Fountain", 1917

Hannah Höch

A co-pioneer of Dadaist photomontages, Hannah Höch was a German artist born in 1889 who used her carefully composed collages to critique and satirize pop culture and societal gender roles.

"From Above", 1926-27, photomontage and collage on paper

"The Beautiful Girl", 1920, collage

"Marlene", 1930, watercolor with white pastel and paper collage on paper

Man Ray

Born Emmanuel Radinski, Man Ray was an avant-garde photographer who helped establish the Dada movement in early 20th-century New York before returning to Paris for a majority of his life.

"Rayograph (The Kiss)", 1922, photogram

"Ingres' Violin", 1924, photography

"Glass Tears", 1932, photography

"Indestructible Object (or Object to Be Destroyed)", 1964 (replica of 1923 original), metronome with cutout photograph of eye on pendulum

Sophie Taeuber-Arp

Taeuber-Arp worked with a variety of mediums in the early 20th-century, exploring the Dada movement through textiles, sculpture, dance, and puppetry. She said, "The desire to enrich and beautify things cannot be interpreted materialistically, that is, in the sense of increasing their value as possessions; rather, it stems from the instinct for perfection and the creative act."

"Military Guards" (from King Stag), 1918, sculpture

"Elementary Forms", 1917, embroidery

[ayshaelshamayleh]

What is Divine Will in The Arab Israeli Conflict & why is it essential to the current discourse?

The Arab-Israeli conflict has been ailing me extensively for the past few years. Not exactly for the reasons that are common amongst Muslim-born Arabs. But for reasons pertaining to contemplations about Divine Will. As a scholar of The Holy Bible -one who has studied the Quran, both having grown up in a cultural context rooted in it and having had to study it as a spiritual seeker in the process of finding a faith/creed - I am burdened by uncomfortable questions. As someone who believes in God, solidly, I am broken by my inability to understand God’s hand in this war that lives so close-by. 

Let me explain my point-of-view: I experience the bible as true word of God, on a personal basis. I live with it. I study it. I model it. I am Arab. I live in Jordan. Israel roots its claim to Palestine in a biblical promise made by God, and narrated in The Holy Bible. 

I find it important for there to be Arabs, accustomed with the bible, engaging (and in fact leading) the discourse about the Arab-Israeli conflict. Arabs who are interested in the conflict must know more about the biblical context, no matter what they themselves believe, so that the conversation is more productive than it has been. If your opponent is claiming God is doing this, and it is difficult to understand how it is possible for an entire country to come into existence out of nothing, the question of “is this by God’s will or not?” must be important for every believer or spiritual seeker on both sides. This way you will speak clearer, and more convincingly, using a language all sides understand and relate with. You should not deny religious belief systems are at the core of this conflict, for everyone involved. You can’t care how uncomfortable that process is, it’s uncomfortable for all of us. And if politics, especially in a land heavily documented to be God’s, is a physical manifestation of the design of the energetic realm; it is important for all those who really look for or believe in God, to ask: “what’s up?”, and to consider that a priority question in their outlook, should they be true believers, true thinkers, true citizens. 

Let’s deal with what’s in the bible about this conflict. To summarize, in the bible the Jews are promised to be scattered amongst nations, and God’s subsequent redemption brings them back to a Promised Land. From Abraham to Joseph to Moses to Joshua to David, the journey that is the blue-print for the spiritual-Jew takes him/her from living somewhere, God approaching him/her and wanting a relationship, as part of a chosen people (chosen by random, not because they are better than the rest, but just to use them as a sign, a symbol, for His relationship with all of humanity at a certain point in history). So then, like the rest of us, they dance between committing to Him and wanting worldly desires and comfort, falling in the face of fear to truly trust Him, to follow His voice and wait in the silence, to move in obedience, to humble themselves as to have a sovereign God over them. They didn’t do that. As you and I don’t do that. As we all don’t do that.  

So then, God -having had good things to give them, good things to promise them, good ways to love them (the quintessential Perfect Lover) - in pain scatters them (‘because it’s over’). He scatters them into Egypt through Joseph, where they move and are eventually enslaved. To taking them out of Egypt, through Moses, wandering a scorched land of a desert for 40 years, so that everyone dies but their remnant (a minority out of them that loved God back in action), who are then given their ‘promised land’. And in the historical bible this does indeed correspond to areas in historical Palestine and its surroundings. David becomes the King of Jerusalem. Solomon builds his temple. Then the cycle goes downhill again, by the time of Daniel, famous for surviving a cage of lions, the jews are back to enslavement in Babylon. The downhill cycle continues.  

One important point to mention is that all throughout the Old Testament, the people of God are promised a Messiah, and to define “messiah” in lay terms: it is the someone or something through which we are saved, making life perfect and peaceful (it’s what every human dreams of and is alive in wait of - the perfect peaceful good life; the Messiah is the spiritual linguistic term that corresponds to the tool which brings about that life we dream of; the life-like heaven we pursue, the perfect state of us becoming perfectly ‘corrected’ and at peace with our existence). 

Now the New Testament tells the story of the Messiah, who is named Christ Jesus (consider it a random linguistic term for now that corresponds to this ‘tool’). Just to avoid confusions, because life is such that we are prone to mistaking a new car or a promotion or a new wife for a messiah -I just confirm that if you want to delve into the realm of precise language and the human-Divine story in order to discern whether the life you have is the one promised to you by God (or if you are living in a land way off-track), the ‘Messiah’s’ character is historically embodied by a man who happened to go by the name Jesus, at random (just the case, neutral). The things you like and fall in love with remind you of the character of ‘Jesus’. If we are to use his name just as a name of a character that is uttered by some people on the route through which we get to that life-like heaven, it’s just that. The gospel gives you a full and short enough narrative about that character (philosophically, artistically, literarily, poetically, historically, literally) to be able to use it as a reference for your life in that practical and simple, manual-style way - should you be one interested in answers that come through such a pallet.

So this fella, Jesus, a jew himself, a son of the lineage of David, a Christ of God comes to settle the debt between God and humanity once and for all. This guy comes to give us a tabula rasa, not just that, but a permanent stay in the life-like heaven. In fact, he says he’ll be inviting you and preparing us to live practically and truly as children of God. Like we feel that way, experientially. Now as you can imagine, you turn out to be indebted to the God that you avoided, silenced, maybe cheated on, but who still shows up (from Adam to your name). So this ‘tool’ of a Messiah is necessary. 

We fully understand the feelings of God on that front through the Book of Hosea (in the Old testament). The prophet of the times was called by God to get married to a cheating wife as a sign of the era and the feelings of God about humanity’s relationship with Him. The endless dancing, not settling, confusion, blurred lines, not making a decision about His presence and involvement, confusion, fear-of-commitment; mess. That wife, symbolizing the people of God, keeps running away into the hands of men (and man-made things), until she finds herself in a slave market. That slave market has modern iterations we are familiar with: selling our souls to jobs we hate, making money that is useless to spend on band aid solutions for the void and the endless pain of wanting life-like heaven but losing the way, insisting that is the only way it goes. That was Hosea’s wife; just like us. Wanting to skip investigating God’s design of life in favor of good times, and “busy-ness”.

Now if you’ve ever been cheated on, imagine that happening over and over for centuries with someone - the brokenness and ridiculousness and unfairness pile up, and Him showing up to create a life for you doesn’t mean the wounds went away or that His showing up is sustainable on an energetic level (think “accounting”). So (to be very simplistic in handling Christian philosophy) something needed to wash things over, resolve you, heal you, get a final fix so the two entities -you and God- could be ‘together’, compatible again, somehow -in friendship? In romance? Him, your Perfect Lover (each up to his capacity in His will). And that route that does that, mathematically and mythically and literally and linguistically, was randomly assigned the name Jesus. 

So what would it take God to reconcile us to Him, according to the bible (the new testament)? The answer is counterintuitive and very difficult to accept or agree to believing in. Before I lay it out, there’s this parable in the new testament that Jesus narrates that might help. There was once a man (alternate man with “God”), who owned a vineyard, and worked very hard at it, dug the winepress, built a tower, and lent it out to some farmers (alternate farmers with “us”) and went to a faraway country (alternate that with “life”). When harvest time came, the man (/God) sent his servants (/friends that walk around in your life constantly annoying you about God or things that remind you of such) to get his share of the fruit as agreed. The farmers (/us) responded by refusing the owner’s end of the bargain, so they beat the servants (/annoying friends) and killed them, so the farmers kept the whole harvest to themselves (/as they wished). The man (/God) sent more servants again. The farmers (/us) killed them again. So then the owner of the vineyard sent his son (alternate that with “Jesus”), thinking the farmers (/us) would respect someone as close and dear and connected to him as an actual son in this ordeal, and that we would give this son the rightful share. When the farmers saw the son, they said to themselves this is the heir, come let us kill him and keep his inheritance to ourselves. And so they did, just that. Killed him to get the land (/life) for themselves with no accountability before its owner. 

The proposition that is difficult to understand or agree to is that God, instead of finding a system that would make us pay for our unwise choices in our relationship with him, knew we couldn’t possibly manage to do that. So, be patient with me here and see it in mythical terms for a second; God paid the price of our wrongs by sending someone of Himself, allowing us to witness ourselves choose to kill him, and in response He showed us He resurrects, and everything not of His dies, to reach out to us for further correction again. The cycle of life keeps moving in that direction. God is here for good. At His own price. This is what makes “God” God, his capacity to love, counterintuitively. This personally moves me. 

The Christian philosophy essentially says God made a truce that is light and easy. If you are drawn to the character of this son, if you love this one who lived loving Him and his neighbor, showing the way, forgiving, sacrificing himself; you are saved and you enter your life-like heaven. The alchemy that happens within you, evolving you, as you pursue your belief in him changes your character into a state able to find and enjoy heaven. Now this life-like heaven isn’t easy. It entails embodying a life like that of God’s son. Loving God. Loving people. Telling the truth, even when it’s difficult. Having people mistrust your goodness. And instead of you choosing to retaliate, choosing to expose your wounds and your pain. Humbling yourself before God and man by asking your Maker for the strength to be good in truthful terms, for the sake of the people’s love for God and God’s perfect love for people. You will be persecuted because of that. You will be whipped. You will struggle. Yet within that life, God Himself works miracles in you and through you. You witness them. You feel Him, real, and strong. You know God. You see Him. Daily. He knows you. Personally. And there’s nothing else you need after that point, apart from enjoying your faith. And thus, heaven is on earth. In that counterintuitive and difficult way. 

Needless to say, what I’m describing above is not the ‘state’ of Israel. Let’s tie this back to the Arab-Israeli conflict. One of the reasons the historical Jesus was not accepted by the historical jews is because they were expecting a political King for a messiah. A man who controls life. Who leads them to physical prosperity; monetary, “real”. Christ was too ethereal for the historical jew. Too intangible. Promising a kingdom of heaven, not earth. So those who are jews in today’s world are an expression of a spiritual state that hasn’t accepted that the ‘messiah’ (the tool to life-like heaven) can come. They find it hard to grasp that after Adam and Eve’s fall from heaven on earth in pursuit of the physicality of life and its desires, the story ends with God coming down to earth to be with us. But that “being with us” is inside of us -I hate to break that, I know it’s an overstated statement. It demands letting go of the world enough to experience Him, rely on Him, see Him, find Him within the eye of the soul. Peace comes out of that silliness, that wherever your geo-coordinates may be in the universe, you are in God, and you work hard at maintaining that (through discernment of what is and is not God) and you suffer in His name. Faith isn’t a hobby. Faith is a full-life ordeal. 

Let’s tie this back to the issue of the Arab-Israeli conflict again. What is going on has to do with another important belief that is so rare. Jews, christians AND muslims all agree on one thing: The world will end with the second coming of Christ (in fact, to Jerusalem). I don’t need to tell you that in today’s post-COVID era and post-Deal-of-the-Century, etc. reality, many feel -as secular as we may be- that the world keeps feeling like it’s ending. Now since all three creeds (i.e. the majority in this region) piously and unanimously agree that earth is destined towards a direction leading to the “arrival” of Christ, then all who are “correct” by their own standards, should be living in pursuit of knowing Christ, regardless of your religion. Your religion stipulates that, should you be a true believer. 

Those who do not know Christ, if they believe in God or are asking questions about God, should learn about him. It is a part of your religion. Social taboos on that front should not concern you, because you claim to believe in God, not people. A life of faith demands a life of your own faith in action, in behavior, in practice - waking up in the morning and working on yourself to find more about your God everyday, about your ‘religion’ everyday. Asking the uncomfortable questions. Anything else is not belief, or creed, it is a facade and a lie. It collapses. If you are unsure there is a God, the most important goal in your life is to go find out whether there is. Don’t wait till a deathbed. 

In my twenties I watched my father die over six years. His real and actual deathbed was fatally propped in our living room. And I watched. I watched him reckon with death. I watched his life be accounted for, both in the human realm and in the other one. I watched him apologize for wrongs he had done people. I watched him pray. I watched him pretend to have beings in the room other than my family. He was asked questions by them (very intelligent, logical and concise). He even gave answers he would turn to me and say were right or wrong or ones he was unsure of. He became so beautiful in his withering, the most loving essence of him palpably fragrant. I saw Christ. He was devotedly Muslim. Not in how he applied laws. But how he practiced, so humbly elegant, real faith is something so dense and real, but unseen, unacknowledged, unaccounted for. That humanity is the only one I wish to see. 

Life takes time. People have different paces and different paths. Intrinsic in the choices they make about how they live life and what they name things (e.g. ‘Israel’), they express what they worship, you express what you believe is the right modem for life. You can’t control your neighbor. You can just worry about your stuff - another overstated statement, I know. 

Here is a political state calling itself “Israel” that believes in doing good for itself and for its people, in hate and at the expense of what’s outside of itself. Is that wrong? They themselves say “no, not when it’s for our best and we are a chosen people”. In my contemplations about Divine Justice, I ache to understand how it is fair that God gives others a choice in how they treat things around them. How is God “God”, if He leaves it all to people? There seems to be no power behind it. Just suffering, and bleeding, and dying on a cross. That’s no God at all - I would imagine the spiritual jew and most Arabs would agree. Not impressive enough to warrant belief. Too passive, many people I’ve crossed paths with have said this. 

As a person of faith, I struggle with those questions as well. I find myself stuck between a rock and a hard place. I experience God as so perfect as to give people choice, even in how they treat Him, and in how they treat others. He is magnanimous as to warrant freedom of speech and behavior. But don’t take that lightly, because you will win. So it’s on you in the smallest of moments. Life and how the people around you experience it depends on you and your choices. There is divine judgement but you are allowed to do whatever you wish, it has consequences, but that’s not the reason you do good. You do good because you believe in the intrinsic value of creating a good world (should you live in a life-like heaven, then that’s imperative for you). Doing good to avoid punishment points to a young state of faith, baby believer, there is much space for development. We work towards becoming adults in God. 

I fail to understand what sort of life to lead to contribute to the resolution of problems that claim people’s lives around me. I feel the situation, it hurts me deeply. Life and God get confusing to the point of total implosion. To be real, since finding faith, the condition of my life is often signaled by whatever is happening in Jerusalem. If you want to know how I am, look up ‘Jerusalem’. Not because Jerusalem causes my pain at all, but my pain coincides with it, like truth. It’s like we’re in the same box of existence. Not by choice, I don’t even share any genetic roots to the place. I’m a random person of God. That state hasn’t been good. 

I feel that an important response (in addition to the other responses out there) to what is happening in Sheikh Jarrah would be to compile resources again and get the people to live in a neighborhood that loves them. Man should not need to negotiate his value amongst the people who live close-by him. In all cases, and despite complexities, man must live amongst the people who are concerned about him, willing to carry him all the way through. I pray that that comes through, and if in any way I am helpful, I’m interested in collaborating.

I’ll end with this good thought by pastor and author Tim Keller:

“Anger is love in motion to deal with a threat toward that which you really love (to disintegrate the threat) – to see what your heart loves the most, you need only ask what you are defending.”

Worth the think. 

[shikamarubase]

Scarred -Chapter Two-

A/N: Happy Nara Week, everyone! I was supposed to write something else for the first day, but please accept this overdue chapter for the ANBU prompt instead. You can find the first chapter here! I hope you enjoy! <3

—————

Chapter Two:

Shikamaru was, without a shadow of a doubt, late for the meeting.

Rushed for time, he dashed across the hallway leading to the Hokage’s office after changing into his full uniform. His hands fumbled over his ANBU mask as he ran, and he couldn’t stop the string of curses from escaping his mouth when the material got tangled in his windswept hair. Letting his dark hair fall over his shoulders instead of bundling it into the usual ponytail minimized the risk of being recognized during missions; his job was dangerous enough without the additional threat of being hunted down by someone with a grudge. Nevertheless, during times like these, he regretted ever agreeing to wear his hair down for ANBU business.

By the time he unceremoniously stumbled into Kakashi’s office, Ino and Chouji were already standing raptly in attention. He mumbled a quick apology as five pairs of eyes flickered over to him.

Five? Shikamaru arched an eyebrow and surveyed the figures inside.

Ino’s and Chouji’s faces were unsurprisingly hidden beneath their respective ANBU masks, but he didn’t need to read their expressions to confirm there was something amiss by the stiffness of their shoulders. Kakashi, however, was the picture of calm. He casually leaned back into his chair and regarded him thoughtfully with one eye, as if he already knew what was going through Shikamaru’s mind. The remaining two unfamiliar guests stood by the Hokage’s work table. Shikamaru was suddenly glad for the mask he wore over his face, otherwise they would have noticed him gaping at them. He was not one to judge appearances, but they wore attires he would describe as either needlessly fancy or completely ludicrous.

The taller one of the two wore a dark hood with cat-like ears over his head, a sharp contrast to the bright face paint decorating his face. He sneered in contempt, and Shikamaru couldn’t help but imagine he was being hissed at by an angry feline. “Oi oi, you dare call yourself a member of the ANBU Corps when you can’t even be on time? Kakashi, are you sure this guy is suitable?”

Next to him, the man with a mop of red hair cupped his shoulder. “Brother, stop.”

His voice was soft, but was laced with authority and a twinge of danger. Shikamaru couldn’t contain the small shiver that ran up his spine as he eyed the smaller man. When he raised his head, Shikamaru caught a glimpse of a tattoo hidden underneath his fringe. His instincts tingled in anticipation. He wasn’t particularly scary or huge, and yet there was something almost intimidating in the way his emotionless green eyes met his.

“Excuse my brother’s rudeness. He has been a bit wired ever since he allowed our sister to slip away.“

The older man’s jaw tightened in protest. “Oh c’mon, Gaara. You know Temari would’ve snuck out no matter how many guards we assign to watch her, and—”

“And that’s precisely why we’re here,” Gaara finished for him. His eyes lingered on Shikamaru for half a second longer before fixing them back on Kakashi. “Can I assume we have all gathered to begin our discussion?”

Kakashi straightened himself before giving a quick nod. “Yes, Your Majesty.”

Before Shikamaru could wrap his head around that, the Hokage was already gesturing at him and speaking to snarky cat ears. “While Kurohi may not look or act the part, I assure you he is one of our best and brightest. Your sister will be in safe hands, Prince Kankuro.”

Your Majesty? Prince? His head swirled from the prestigious titles thrown inside the room, he didn’t acknowledge when Kakashi addressed him by his given ANBU name nor did he wait for Kankuro’s response.

He was in the presence of royalty. That would explain the extravagant clothing they had on and why Ino and Chouji looked so stiff. They had to deal with the temper of an impatient royal, because he was tardy. Suddenly the entire room reeked of power, and while Shikamaru wasn’t particularly fazed by ranking, he had to acknowledge that half of the people in the room could easily sentence him to death and he would have no way of stopping them. He mentally kicked himself for not figuring it out sooner—Gaara had a cape strapped to his back, for shinobi’s sake! For the better half of his life, he’s had family, friends, and even complete strangers tell him how intelligent he was behind his unmotivated facade. If they could only see him now, they’d understand why he always disagreed.

From Kakashi’s place behind the desk, he spoke to the trio directly as Gaara and Kankuro settled comfortably into the couch. “I’m sure you have figured it out by now, but the two gentlemen before you are none other than King Gaara and Prince Kankuro from Sunagakure. Another unit was assigned to escort them on their way here, but the next step requires the kind of teamwork only the three of you can offer.”

He paused when Gaara suddenly stood up, his cape fluttering behind him. “Lord Hokage, I’d like to tell them the details myself, if you don’t mind.”

If Kakashi was in any way shocked by the offer, he kept it to himself. Instead, he extended a courteous gesture before he sat back down and folded his arms.

Gaara trained his eyes on them. “As you all know, Suna and Konoha have been...at odds for almost a decade, ever since the last great war tore apart any chance of establishing an amicable relationship between our villages. And while we persistently tried to convince him otherwise, our father had blatantly refused to ally with another, so we have been...out of touch for the past few years.”

Shikamaru’s attention shifted when Kankuro scoffed lightly into his hand, a small scowl curling at the corner of his lips. Although his first impression of the temperamental Prince was less than appealing, he could understand where he’s coming from. If they were related, Gaara’s words would elicit an eyeroll out of him as well.

‘Out of touch’ was a severe understatement. The people of the desert kingdom were already known to keep to themselves and constantly avoid direct contact with foreigners, but after the war King Rasa kept the kingdom under lockdown and made sure not a single sandrat could sneak in or out. Anyone who tried was declared a terrorist and executed on the spot. Under the orders of the former Hokage, Shikamaru had snuck in once before for an espionage mission, and nearly lost his neck trying to sneak back out. In the short time he was there, one thing was clear: fear amongst the Sunan civilians was palpable. Sunagakure was a prison cell under the guise of a kingdom; Guards from the royal palace took turns patrolling the city in the interest of enforcing public safety. But rather than give off the image of being protected, civilians behaved skittishly and stepped outside the comforts of their homes at odd hours, almost as if they were afraid to bring attention to themselves. Shikamaru guessed the guards were really stationed to make sure no rebellion sprung up to overthrow the throne. He had to hand it to the former king—he was nothing if not ruthless. Rumors have it he’d trained thousands of soldiers inside the castle grounds in preparation for the next war, and he wasn’t modest about it either. Every other week, Shikamaru would hear news of how “the power-hungry King Rasa” had razed through yet another small neighboring village with no military power to assert his dominance and expand his domain. He was a detestable man who left only destruction and tragedy in his wake. His reputation preceded him, even in death. Despite the grotesque details surrounding his demise, everyone breathed a sigh of relief when he was finally out of the throne.

Sensing the tension in the room at the mention of the former King, Gaara cleared his throat. “As I was saying, now that I have ascended the throne, my first agenda is to rebuild my people’s trust in the royal family and to keep them safe from terrorist attacks. Father’s...excursions brought him enemies who’d love nothing more than to eradicate the royal bloodline and destroy our kingdom. The Land of Wind is one of the five founding countries, with rich history stemming from the beginning of civilization. We cannot let it fall so easily. Which is why, as King, I have decided to form a pact with your Hokage and ally ourselves to your nation...in exchange for your protection.”

Shikamaru’s mind raced at his final statement. It was customary for ANBU not to ask questions during mission briefs, but before he could stop himself concern tumbled out of his open mouth. “Pardon my rudeness, but why would you need our protection?”

Next to him, he felt Chouji tense but forced himself to keep his eyes trained on Gaara through the cover of his mask. The King brought a hand to his chin and regarded him curiously. “The Land of Fire boasts the strongest soldiers of all countries. Ninjas from this land are especially talented. Although I wasn’t able to take part in the last Great War, I’ve heard stories of how Konoha soldiers fought valiantly and pushed the war back despite their shortage of manpower.”

Shikamaru nodded briefly at this. It was a story he’d heard over and over as a child. It was his father, Nara Shikaku, who devised the strategies that led to their success in the war. “But I believe you’re mistaken,” he responded, his voice uncharacteristically clear and crisp even to his own ears. “ANBU normally don't fight in wars and most of us aren’t as powerful as you think. We only possess skills suitable for stealth missions, so I don’t see what we can do for you. If you want raw power, it’d be better to seek it from our Jounin or your own soldiers.”

“Kurohi,” Kakashi started to say, but Gaara raised a palm to cut him off.

“Sunagakure has a great number of skilled soldiers, yes. If this were for any other occasion, you’d be right. But as it stands, we need your expertise.”

Shikamaru arched an eyebrow as Gaara started pacing back and forth in front of them.

“Our soldiers are naturally proud and hot-blooded; we pride ourselves for being brave and we never back out from a fight. It is in our nature to rush into battle, even if we have nothing but the clothes on our backs. Some call it foolish, but we call it courage. Unfortunately, our courage makes us more prone to life-threatening situations. While we make up for it with overwhelming strength, our strategic planning is severely lacking. I soon realized, there is no point in winning a war if the soldiers don’t make it back home. When we heard there is a genius with an I.Q. of over 200 in Konoha, working behind the scenes and ensuring successful missions with almost zero fatality rate, we knew you would be the right man for the job.”

Gaara stepped forward and grasped Shikamaru’s shoulder, fingers curling into his skin. “There’s no need to hide behind your mask now, Nara Shikamaru.”

Shikamaru’s blood ran cold. Every bone in his body screamed for him to rip his hand away. This man was dangerous, his instincts gnawed at his head. He was the opposite of Kankuro, who seemed to instill fear through the volume of his voice and biting threats. And yet, the air around the current King was more than enough to keep him frozen in place. It almost felt as if he was facing a veteran soldier, a comforting presence to have around as a comrade but not someone he’d want as an enemy.

Shikamaru lifted his hand to heed to the command, his dark hair swishing over his shoulders as he removed the mask and shook his head slightly. When he lowered his chin to meet Gaara’s eyes, there was no longer any barrier between them.

“What exactly do you need me for?” He mumbled.

A small smile tugged at the corner of Gaara’s lips before he turned his back and went back to his original position. “I need the three of you,” his eyes flitted over to Ino and Chouji, “to guard my elder sister.”

The tension in his chest dispersed. That was not the kind of S-rank mission he had in mind.

As if sensing his disappointment, Kakashi stood up and waved a folder in his hand. “To seal our alliance, Princess Temari is to be wed to our Feudal Lord, Madoka Makoto, and your team has been assigned to be her bodyguards,” he explained.

That earned a small squeak from Ino. She always went on about how handsome the young leader was. If they weren’t in a meeting Shikamaru would’ve rolled his eyes.

“Our father’s assassin is still at large, and we have reason to believe they’ll be coming after us next. We have curbed countless rebellions over the last few years, all of which demanded to bring an end to our sovereignty. While we want to use this opportunity to establish a trusting relationship, they see it as a plot to continue our bloodline and expand our rule.”

“And, is it not?” Shikamaru raised a dubious eyebrow.

Gaara chuckled, the first time his face ever broke out of its stoic mask. “It is an amusing idea,” he admitted, “but I could hardly say I am cunning enough to come up with such an elaborate plan.”

His features clouded over as he added, “Brother and I have mastered swordsmanship, but Temari has no means to protect herself from criminals. They will surely capitalize on the opportunity to attack her and reveal themselves in the process.”

In Shikamaru’s head, his words easily translated to, “I’m using my sister as bait to lure out my father’s killers.”

Finally catching on to their hidden motive, his mind whirled with questions. If the princess was meant to be a catalyst for the alliance, why was she not a part of the meeting? And he had met his fair share of government leaders, and they were definitely not this chatty, especially for someone who’d practically admitted to having a target on his back. Suspicion gnawed at him like a persistent bug. If there was one thing he was sure of: the Sabaku Royal Family weren’t hanging around for entirely diplomatic reasons. And one more thing bothered him...

“What does she look like?” He blurted out and scrambled to cover his outburst. “We can’t protect her if we don’t know her face.”

“Indeed.” As Gaara took the folder from Kakashi and handed it to him, Shikamaru’s thoughts flickered over to the blonde woman he ran into that morning. A foreigner running around the city in a fancy day gown the same day he was assigned as a bodyguard to the Sunan King’s sister? It couldn’t be a coincidence.

He slowly flipped the folder open, his eyes scanning the description of the mission until they landed on a photograph. She looked exactly as he remembered; perched daintily on a wide couch in a lilac princess gown, with four bundles of blonde hair sticking over her head. Her lips pursed together into a pout as her striking teal eyes stared into the camera.

“If you show your face around me again you’ll be sorry!” Her parting words reverberated in his head as his worst suspicions were realized.

He inwardly groaned. This job was going to be more troublesome than he bargained for.

[uberstip]

Short escape kita belakangan adalah ke indomaret. Shopping snack lalu nonton Netflix, buka-tutup kulkas lalu selonjoran, home vacation – tua di ranjang. 

Namun, hanya soal waktu kita bakal packing dan boarding lagi. Sebelum masa itu tiba, berfantasilah dan renungkan tips liburan berkualitas dari oppa:

1. Mendokumentasikan momen secukupnya

Jangan terlalu banyak selfie. Ga perlu take berulang-ulang hingga 50 kali dalam semenit. Tampak depan, tampak samping, mata genit, melet-melet, semua angle dicoba. Ya, oppa tahu, kamu selfie 50 kali, yang jelek 100. Tapi ga perlu segitunya. Pasrah dan filterlah kemudian.

Ga perlu take video lama-lama seakan kamu sedang syuting drakor. Percayalah, videomu tak akan menang piala Oscar. Keep it short but artistic, don’t spend your entire trip behind a screen.

Take the time to put camera away and gaze in wonder what’s there in front of you

– Erick Widman

2. Hamburkan uang dengan elegan

Karena sudah berhemat dirumah, traveling merupakan saat yang tepat untuk mereward diri sendiri. Jangan melewatkan makan sushi di Tokyo, Wiener Schnitzel di Vienna, ataupun Carbonara di Rome. Kadang kamu gak tahu kapan bisa kesana lagi.

Irit boleh, kikir jangan. Kualitas kehidupanmu lebih penting dari neraca keuanganmu.

Sesekali hiduplah dengan glamour layaknya personil BlackPink.

‘Bada bing, bada boom, boom, boom!’

Posisikanlah dirimu sebagai Billionaire eksentrik yang bosan duit

Berfoya-foyalah untuk sesuatu yang mungkin cuma bisa kamu lakukan sekali seumur hidup. Once in a lifetime moment. Jangan malah ngabisin duit buat gantungan kunci yang tak berguna. Kalo g-string yang lagi sale, OK lah.

3. Tidur awal, bangun pagi

Kamu pun bisa menikmati tiap sudut kota dengan eksklusif. Disaat manusia lain masih ngorok, kamu bisa foto-foto, lompat-lompat dan bikin tik-tok. Sebelum berangkat, sisakan waktu buat ngumpulin nyawa dan melakukan ritual toilet.

Selagi menikmati sepinya pagi, gunakan seluruh indramu untuk meresapinya. Melihat indahnya matahari terbit, mereguk kopi hangat, mencium harum roti yang baru selesai dipanggang,  menyentuh daun yang berguguran, mendengar suara burung yang berkicau dan lonceng gereja yang berdentang. Mellow-lah sambil mesem-mesem.

4. Play like a kid, Act like a King

Saat menjelajah dunia, jadilah seperti anak kecil yang kegirangan. Gak mikir kerjaan, hanya bermain tanpa aturan. Berlarian telanjang sesuka hati dan makan tidur dengan riang. Bumi adalah taman bermainmu.

We are in such a hurry to grow up, and then we long for our lost childhood

– Paulo Coelho

Namun bukan berarti jadi bego. Tetap waspada pada spesies jahat. Playful yet strong layaknya raja Korea Pheaaaa ‘The King of Eternal Jomblo’ – ‘You can have fun with me, but don’t you dare to mess with me.’

5. Nyobain sesuatu yang belum pernah

Mulai dari makanan baru, budaya baru, hingga gebetan baru. Nyicipin sashimi gurita yang masih goyang-goyang, masuk ke onsen telanjang bulat, hingga ajep-ajep dengan bad girl.

Dari sini pasti ada pandanganmu yang berubah. Misal, bad girl tidak selalu identik dengan hal negatif.

Selain pintar menjaga penampilan, mereka cenderung lebih pede, suka tantangan dan gak takut patah hati

Pokoknya semua pengalaman baru yang bikin kamu deg-degan dan berteriak ‘Mayday, mayday! Will you marry me?’ 

Menyelam kebawah laut, naik roller coaster ekstrem, melayang dengan paralayang, breakdance battle dengan barongsai hingga merusak hubungan orang.

Mungkin ada kalanya sesuatu yang baru itu mengecewakan. At least you gave it a shot. Tetaplah penasaran, kamu akan menemukan sesuatu yang bikin kamu excited!

Hasrat ingin mengalami ini akan memperkaya hidupmu dan menjadikannya kenangan terunik. Do things that you will laugh about ten years from now.

We live in a strange world.

Explore it, feel it, enjoy it!

Catedral de Santa María la Real de la Almudena. Baroque Catholic cathedral known for its colorful chapels

Sebelum membaca tulisan ini, ada baiknya kamu membaca tulisan tentang Madrid sebelumnya Things to do in Madrid, Kota Metropolis nan eksotis. Semoga tulisan oppa kali ini, bisa menjelma menjadi gambar bergerak di imajinasimu.

Berikut tempat-tempat asyik yang oppa kunjungi di ibu kota Spanyol ini:

1. La Mallorquina

La Mallorquina was founded in 1894 and ever since has been one of Madrileños’ favourite places to enjoy delicious pastries

Kedai roti melegenda yang telah berdiri sejak tahun 1894. Tempat pelarian Madrileños’ untuk meredakan stres. Chocolatey pastry dan cake yang creamy, menjadi penyembuh jiwa yang alami.

My morning caffeine hit. Sip, chew and on

Mirip dengan coffee bar di Roma, saya berdiri di samping bar, menikmati lumernya chocolate croissant bersama cappuccino di mulut. Di tengah keramaian, sel kebahagiaan saya memekar bagai bunga musim semi.

‘Kafein dan Serotonin yang menyatu memang Mipan zuzuzu’

La Mallorquina

Madrid’s most famous bakery. Incredible variety of pastries, cakes and chocolates!

Puerta del Sol, 8, 28013 Madrid, Spain

Hours: Senin – Minggu 8:30AM–2PM, 5:30–9PM

Best Seller Menu: Chocolate Croissant 2.30 Euro. Cafe Cappuccino and Cafe Bombon (Espresso with Condensed Milk) 2.50 Euro | Rp. 44,000. Napolitana 1.70 Euro | Rp. 30,000

Direction: Google Maps Location

Wide selections of pastries, tarts and cakes are available within this cafe

2. Plaza de España

A popular square at the heart of Madrid

Taman publik yang dihiasi bunga, pepohonan dan kolam air mancur yang indah. Tempat asyik buat bersantai dan people-watching. Monumen sastrawan terbesar Spanyol – Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra,  menjadi sentral dari taman ini.

Penulis yang terkenal berkat karya novelnya yang berjudul ‘Don Quixote’. Pencetus novel modern pertama di dunia. Sebagai sesama filsuf, walaupun beda kasta, oppa ikut merasa menjadi bagian dari sejarah. #siapaelo

There are plenty of shops close by and there is a kiosk selling drinks and snacks etc in the corner of the park

Plaza de España

Leafy square surrounded by imposing buildings, with stone & bronze statue of Cervantes on horseback

Plaza de España, 28008 Madrid, Spain

Open 24 hours

Direction: Google Maps Location

3. Temple of Debod

This ancient temple was a gift from the Egyptian as a sign of gratitude for helping preserve their historical treasure during a crisis. It was brought to Madrid stone by stone

Kuil yang membawamu kembali ke masa Sphinx ribuan tahun yang lalu. Bangunannya merupakan hadiah dari pemerintah Mesir karena Spanyol telah menjaga dan melestarikan peninggalan bersejarah mereka. Bayangin, bebatuannya didatangkan langsung satu persatu langsung dari Mesir.

Temple of Debod

Ancient Egyptian temple & museum moved from Aswan & rebuilt in lush parkland, with sunset views

Calle de Ferraz, 1, 28008 Madrid, Spain

Free Entrance but capacity is limited to 30 persons

Hours: Selasa – Minggu 10AM–7PM

Direction: Google Maps Location

4. Casa Dani

Tempat terbaik untuk nyobain Tortilla de patatas aka Spanish Omelette ada di resto keluarga Casa Dani. Fresh from the kitchen! Telur dadar isi irisan kentang yang dimasak dengan sempurna.

Kentang di dalam telurnya menyatu dengan sekilas rasa bawang dan karamel. Cheewy, creamy, and just the right amount of runny. Exquisito! Tampilannya memang sederhana, tapi rasanya luar biasa. Ditambah ramahnya sang waiter yang mirip bintang telenovela, membuat segalanya menjadi lebih indah.

Casa Dani

The best tortilla in in the whole country, more than a little omelette bar. You can’t miss this place!

Cl. de Ayala, 28, 28001 Madrid, Spain

Hours: Senin – Minggu 9AM–5PM

Best seller menu: Pincho de tortilla – Spanish Omelette 2.80 Euro | Rp. 49,000

This place is really popular so be prepared to wait in line, but once you are seated and place your order, the food comes out quickly and the service is efficient

Direction: Google Maps Location

Coffee is always a good partner

They use all the ingredients from this market. So fresh!

This Spanish bar is located inside the beautiful food market

Saya sempet bingung  bingung nyari lokasinya, sempat bertanya pada warga setempat dan ternyata spanish bar ini ada di dalam pasar. Pasar modern yang tidak terlihat seperti pasar.

5. Santiago Barnebeu – Real Madrid Stadium

Being pitch side during the tour is in incredible as you really see how high the stands are!

Santiago Berdebu. Stadion dari klub terbaik di dunia. Tim yang memecahkan rekor juara Liga Champions terbanyak, sampai 13 kali! Saya mengawali tur dengan pameran foto, video, dan trofi-trofi pencapaian Real Madrid.

Mulai dari trofi liga Champions, liga Spanyol, Copa Del Rey, sampai Golden Boots dan Ballon d’Or milik Cristiano Ronaldo. Ahh, sang mantan terindah.

I felt so delighted and privileged to see this legendary stadium inside out. Everything is amazing, the changing rooms, the feel…, and the perfectly green straight grass on their pitch

Pemain baru Real Madrid yang siap merumput di rumput tetangga. A new transfer from Nankatsu. Posisi: Gelandangan Menyerang.

His motto: ‘Real man is not a woman, Real Madrid is a football club’ Kemampuan Utama ➕: Menyerang dalam gelap Melewati lawan dan menikung teman Mencetak Goal dari sudut sulit, termasuk dari luar lapangan

Kekurangan ➖: Suka lupa kalo sudah makan Lemah dalam bertahan apalagi kepada mantan Sering terkena jebakan offside, karena duduk dibangku penonton sambil ngemil popcorn

This is Ronaldo’s third Golden Boot, the second with Real Madrid

The changing rooms. The Tour is spectacular even for me as a neutral

Setelah itu saya memasuki memasuki tempat duduk stadion di bagian atas, melihat hijaunya rumput yang menyegarkan mata. Kemudian melewati lorong menuju lapangan layaknya pemain beneran, duduk di kursi pemain cadangan, masuk ke ruang konferensi pers, sampai memasuki ruang ganti pemain.

Estadio Santiago Bernabéu

81,000-capacity ground for Real Madrid, with regular matches plus tours of stadium and trophy room

Av. de Concha Espina, 1, 28036 Madrid, Spain

Hours: Senin – Sabtu 9:30 AM – 7 PM. Minggu 10 AM – 6:30 PM

Entrance Fee: Buy Online 14 Euro | Rp. 243,000. Buy at the ticket office 17 Euro | Rp. 295,000. Reserve your visit here realmadrid.com

Direction: Exit from Santiago Bernabeu Metro Station Google Maps Location

Terakhir ada Mega Store yang menjual berbagai macam pernak-pernik official Real Madrid. Mulai dari jersey, jaket, syal, topi, gantungan kunci, botol minum, komplit plit plit plit. Stadion ini memang gereja bagi pecinta Madrid.

A Disneyland for Real Madrid fans. Football cathedral. An imposing sight from the outside but it is much more amazing once you step inside. I can see how it’s one of the Europe’s most famous venues

6. El Retiro Park

The perfect place to relax on a beautiful day. There’s a large lake for those interested in hiring a boat and a lot of walking paths and lawns to lie out on.

Taman raksasa yang dihiasi patung, monumen dan danau yang anggun. Saya berjalan melewati jalur setapak diantara pepohonan yang rindang. Memperhatikan sepasang kekasih bermesraan di bawah The Monument of Alfonso XII.

Mereka duduk berpelukan sambil sesekali berciuman. Pacaran tidak pernah sehistorik ini. Ingin rasanya saya berteriak ‘Mister, butuh peran pengganti?’

Diantara semilir angin, saya berjalan kaki mengagumi keindahan suasana taman. Banyak orang bersantai dengan berbaring di rerumputan, duduk di kursi taman dan mendayung di kolam. Tempat terbaik untuk melarikan diri dari dunia nyata.

Such a beautiful and romantic park, filled with beautiful sculptures, monuments and a peaceful lake

Parque de El Retiro

The largest parks of the city, 19th-century park with boating lake & rose garden, plus numerous fountains & statues

Plaza de la Independencia, 7, 28001 Madrid, Spain

Hours: Senin – Minggu 6–9PM

Direction: Google Maps Location

I enjoy having a walk, taking pictures and unplug from the world

The green heart of the city. Sprawling over 350 acres park that full of lovely gardens, fountains, statues and beautiful architecture!

7. Vait Cafe

Inayati Nurul, nama dari gadis berkacamata yang bekerja di cafe ini. Kami berkenalan setelah dia bertanya

‘Kayaknya logatnya ga asing?’

‘Eh, orang Indonesia’. Ternyata logat English Jowo saya begitu kental baginya.

Bertemu dengan warga Indonesia dinegara lain memang menyenangkan. Saat saya memesan Latte Macchiato double shot, dia menjawab dengan sinar mata yang ramah,

‘Udah bayar single shot aja.’

‘Serius? You’re too kind.’ Balas saya dengan mata berbinar.

Ternyata toleransi antar warga sebangsa dan setanah air itu masih ada.

Selagi menunggu Napolitana dan pesanan kopi dibuat, kami sempat bercakap-cakap. Yang paling saya ingat adalah saat dia bercerita kalo sudah lama di Madrid, dan kemungkinan besar, gak bakal balik lagi ke Indonesia.

‘Gak kangen?’ ujar saya.

‘Kangen si, tapi udah nyaman disini.’

Dalam hati saya bergumam ‘Apakah memang lebih baik hujan emas di negeri orang, daripada hujan batu di negeri sendiri?’

Vait Cafe

Calle de Alcalá, 54, 28014 Madrid, Spain

Hours: Senin – Minggu 9AM–10PM

Direction: Google Maps Location

8. Gran Via

Champs-Élysées versi Madrid. Surga belanja di jalan raya lurus nan panjang. Trotoarnya berjejer rapi dengan pertokoan berarsitektur kekaisaran Hapsburg. Sepanjang mata memandang terlihat outlet-outlet bermerek, ada H&M, Zara, Adidas, Bershka dan Prada.

Konon memakai barang branded membuat gengsi dan pede kita akan meningkat.

Just like what Aladdin said, ‘If you don’t have anything, you have to act like you own everything’

Gran Via

One of the best shopping streets in central Madrid

C/ Gran Vía, 46, 28013 Madrid, Spain

Open 24 Hours

Direction: Google Maps Location

9. Mercado de San Miguel

Pasar dengan stand-stand makanan spanyol yang menggiurkan. Disini saya nyobain Tapas, nasi goreng seafood – Paella, irisan paha babi – Jamon Iberico dan Wine cocktail – Sangria. Selain itu ada kaviar, cheese, lobster dan berbagai jenis cake. Bener-bener surga makanan yang gak boleh dilewatkan.

Mercado de San Miguel

Circa-1916 covered market offering local food in an elegant ambiance. Gourmet market, with over 30 vendors selling a wide variety of freshly prepared tapas, hams, olives, seafood, cakes and cheeses. Beer, wine and champagne are also available.

Plaza de San Miguel, S/N, 28005 Madrid, Spain

Hours: Senin – Minggu 12PM–12AM

Direction: Exit from Sol Metro Station Google Maps Location

10. Plaza Mayor

Hiruk pikuk suasana malam memberikan sensasi keceriaan. Alunan lagu musisi jalanan berderu dengan suara manusia. Alun-alun yang dulunya tempat adu banteng ini, sekarang menjadi lapangan yang dikelilingi pertokoan, kafe dan restoran.

Plaza Mayor

Cafes & restaurants line the arches of this stately square with Philip III’s statue in the center

Plaza Mayor, 28012 Madrid, Spain

Direction: Google Maps Location

Hari itu merupakan malam terakhir saya di Eropa. Setelah 20 hari mengitari benua biru, saya masih merasa kurang. Mengapa saat kita bersenang-senang, waktu terasa begitu cepat?

Liburan memang seperti bintang jatuh, dia meluncur cepat dengan keindahan yang mengagumkan. Seperti kata Dee Lestari: ‘penuh kesan, tapi dengan cepat melesat hilang.’

Ternyata liburan, gak beda jauh dengan pujaan hatimu.

COVID makes us learn that travel is a privilege. So don’t take it for granted.

Because tomorrow is not even promised. We can suddenly go and leave everything behind

Hala Madrid! Top 10 Things to do Short escape kita belakangan adalah ke indomaret. Shopping snack lalu nonton Netflix, buka-tutup kulkas lalu selonjoran, …

[sunnydaleherald]

The Sunnydale Herald Newsletter, Wednesday, February 2 – Thursday, February 3

OLAF: Bah! I've told you a thousand times; I have no interest in this Rannveig. Her hips are large and load bearing, like a Baltic woman. Your hips are narrow, like a Baltic woman from a slightly more arid region.

~~Selfless~~

[Drabbles & Short Fiction]

Caught (Xander/Cordelia, Willow, PG) by badly_knitted

Revelations (Spike/Buffy, T) by MissLuci

The Campbell Affair (crossover with "Blake and Mortimer", Joyce, not rated) by Vidicon666

Like Old Times (Angel/Spike/Buffy, E) by MillenialCryBaby

Shopworn (crossover with Firestarter by Stephen King, Joyce, not rated) by Vidicon666

Dream Walk (Spike/Buffy, G) by violettathepiratequeen

Permission (to stay) (Lilah/Wesley, M) by GothamstreetCat

[Chaptered Fiction]

Bloody Petals: The Status is Quo (fusion with Yakuza, Cordelia, Xander, Andrew, T) by madimpossibledreamer

To Sleep, Perchance to Dream, Chapter 3 (Spike/Buffy, R) by slaymesoftly

Love Life's Gift, Part 1-2 (Spike/Buffy, T) by MissLuci

Breathe Your Name, Chapter 1 (Angel/Buffy, Lindsey/Buffy, M) by Janis70

All But One, Chapter 11 (Spike/Buffy, Adult Only) by Jws1993

At Your Service, Chapter 17-20 (Spike/Buffy, NC-17) by Grief Counseling

The Fairytale, Chapter 7 (Spike/Buffy, NC-17) by Dusty

Heroes, Hexes, and Hijinks, Chapter 8 (Spike/Buffy, R) by JaneRemmington

i called you, a moment of weakness, Chapter 5 (Spike/Buffy, PG-13) by snipssw

Only Time Will Tell, Chapter 3-6 (Spike/Buffy, NC-17) by Grief Counseling

Rewind Love, Chapter 4 (Spike/Buffy, NC-17) by Blade Redwind

Seven, Chapter 12 (Spike/Buffy, NC-17) by Holly

Somewhere Begins Again, Chapter 7 (Spike/Buffy, NC-17) by alittlemoretime

To Sleep, Perchance to Dream, Chapter 3 (Spike/Buffy, R) by slaymesoftly

You Learn, Chapter 20 (Spike/Buffy, Adult Only) by bramcrackers

Darkest Before the Dawn, Chapter 41 (crossover with Lord of the Rings, Buffy, FR15) by Luna

Scattered Echoes: Second Generation, Chapter 3 (Spike/Buffy, M) by Myrabeth

[Images, Audio & Video]

=

Artwork: lazy mornings am i right (Spike/Angel, worksafe) by frankierose

Artwork: What's scarier than a vampire who wants to kill you? (Darla, worksafe) by recorriendoporahi

Artwork: a paint study of Darla (worksafe) by recorriendoporahi

Gifs: Ruin and Rising (Buffy, worksafe) by scullys

Artwork: Dru doodles (worksafe) by sunnyhellcalifornia

Artwork: Buffy (worksafe) by honeyvamp

Artwork: The Hero of Three Faces (crossover with Doctor Who, First Evil, worksafe) by Paulc Gadzikowski

Artwork: Tara (worksafe) by skunk-punk-66

Sims: 1630 Revello Drive (worksafe) by emailmy-heart

Artwork: Spike (worksafe) by irkallanprince

Digital painting: Class Protector (Buffy, worksafe) by savory_muffins

Video: You Belong With Me (Spike/Buffy) by tallymarkss

[Reviews & Recaps]

I recently finished watching BtVS season 1 for the first time by eldweena

Part of the problem with Whedon’s post-Buffy work... by comradesummers

Hush by starsandmoongay

Blind Date (ATS 1.21) by buffster

BOOM! Angel #1 of 8 (spoilers) (cont'd) by Priceless, American Aurora

Controversial Opinion: Spin the Bottle is not a copy of Tabula Rasa by DarkstarX84

I am grateful for this show by VirtualSun2

What underrated line delivery do you think deserves more attention? by Prodigal_Son22

Poll: Agree or disagree - The S6 finale, Grave, is the worst season finale by InfiniteMedhiLove

The [AtS] theme song slaps so damn hard... by LunchThreatener

I just finished watching Angel for the first time by pick1e-rick

PODCAST: Buffy Boys 144 - Chosen (S07E22)

PODCAST: Buffering the Vampire Slayer: 7.06 Him

PODCAST: Myth Taken: Season 4, Episode 7: The Initiative

PODCAST: Pop Culture Role Call: Ocean's 666 - Angel S01E21 - Blind Date

[Recs / In Search Of]

Fic search: bulldogmo is looking for two Xander stories, one a “Charmed” crossover, the other called “Forced” (?), by the same author

Video "Willow Rosenberg Wants Control" by The Turnout recced by girl4music

Various fanfiction recommendations by Klaus Kartoffel, bespangeled

Favorite "Once More, With Feeling" reaction videos recced by PFTETOwerewolves, Leon-Bloxham

[Community Announcements]

Buffyverse Prompts: a new prompt meme challenge for finding and submitting BtVS/AtS themed fic prompts

[Fandom Discussions]

Spike has Owenosity by confusedguytoo

Favorite main character: Anya by ex-vengeancedemon

Our first textual evidence that demons can love (Moloch) by no-soul-required

[Willow/Giles] by no-soul-required, girl4music, resurrecteddestiheller

[I want to see a fanfic where the Scoobies are psychically, mystically connected] by confusedguytoo

Angel getting a prophecy about his death, compared to Buffy getting a prophecy about hers by oveliagirlhaditright

[Season 4 AU: Willow, Xander and Spike all being roommates] by disco-tea

Angel really loses everyone he cares about by oveliagirlhaditright

[I just got super mopey about this Bangel scene] by oveliagirlhaditright

thinking abt the buffy going to college early episodes again by july-19th-club

The Buffy fandom is more palatable here on Tumblr than on Twitter by rosewinesadversary

Spike’s and Willow’s dynamic by langernameohnebedeutung

Favorite main character: Willow by theharshlightofday, girl4music

Favorite Buffy outfits by foolforbuffy

Ship meme (anti Buffy/Giles) by julianazyalenskys

i just can’t believe there are people who think spike is a cishet man by buffysummerslesbian

Favorite Buffy outfits by loopholesinmydreams

Favorite supporting character: Cordelia by theharshlightofday

Sire/Childe bond by Stoney, flow

Where did Buffy get communion wafers from? by Tuxedo_Mark

Is there anything new you’ve noticed about the show/characters in your rewatch? by blueapricot10

Given the choice would you prefer Wes or Doyle? by PFTETOwerewolves

Every Character's Biggest Mistake? by Straight_Chocolate89

Ranking each season by their big bads by D_B_4986

Which name sounds more menacing to you: "William the bloody" or "Spike"? by shonenhikada

What if Kate Lockley didn’t exit the series and still adapted Justine Cooper’s role? by DoyleIsAHero

So how did Buffy not see Riley’s bite marks already? by cesclaa

[Articles, Interviews, and Other News]

An update from writer/producer Monica Owusu-Breen on the Buffy reboot by Slayerfest '98

Quiz: Who said these 30 "Angel" quotes? by Greer Riddell, January Media

Submit a link to be included in the newsletter!

[sunagakurenosato]

verses || Solar Punk AU

Amaya will also refer to this as Chillpocalypse, because as the title suggests...

It is set in a post-apocalyptic world. But instead of people fighting each other and killing for survival, people are just... well, chill. Rebuilding the world isn’t an exclusive party thing and everyone helps everyone. Science and medicine exist but with more community oriented roots. Gadgets exist but are powered by natural sources... Solar punk, basically.

Rasa

He is known in several circles as the king of everything underground, and that he could produce gold for you if you work for him. Most outsiders would be surprised that this refers to potatoes and other root crops. Sometimes corn. 

He looked after the area with Charis and Visna. Theirs was a small communal and egalitarian community. Those who lived in the community tended to be young and many--- but Rasa always made the math work.

Karura

She traveled the area with a horse and a caraval of supplies, seeds, cuttlings, and other bits of life. When she settled in an area, she would work on the land. Plant some of her seeds in the area. Wait for the next person to come by and find life.

Eventually, she would circle back to Rasa’s community. Often, with little bits of the life outside, ready for planting.

Yashamaru

He owns a clinic a short walk from the beach. In the mornings, he would see those who journeyed for a doctor. In the early afternoons, he would hold small interactive lectures to help people with their health. Capacity building, he’d say. Not everything needs a doctor--- lecture on sugar-salt-water for diarrhea, burn first aid, how to catch mosquitoes that might carry disease.

In the late afternoons, he would walk by the beach with Anko, and Count, his cat, would be walking behind.

Sasori

Sasori traveled the area with Kuri.

And their small community of stray cats.

The goal of the travels, for Sasori, was to salvage the tech that was left behind by the old world. Kuri’s goal was to make sure that Sasori didn’t forget he had a stomach and needed to sleep in pursuit of his own goals. The cats that followed him were fun bonuses, though.

Sasori (Sohrab) should not be confused with Sasori (Sasa) who also travels, looks exactly like each other, sounds exactly like each other. However, Sasa is followed by, instead of cats, a wolf pack. They are friendly.

Ryozen

Ryozen was both a man and a legend.

Tales talk of someone suddenly appearing at your camp, with wine. You may accept the wine. But he will talk you into crazy antics, most of which are dangerous. You must resist this temptation. If you are successful, he would disappear before the morning dawns.

Sometimes, another person who looks exactly like Ryozen, would appear and ask about particularly delicious looking dishes. It is expected that, if you see this one, Sasa and his wolf pack are nearby.

[wrathfulspark]

@dabrowskievolution

     Perhaps the term Elidi had been looking for was ‘humanity’, seeing as Stanislav didn’t view himself as human--at least not anymore. It’d been far too long since he’d last felt the natural flush of life within his veins; but seeing as this was only pleasantry and easily brushed over in favor of moving on to the next topic of conversation, Stanislav refrained from commenting any further on the matter. 

          While this was by no means a bragging contest, Stanislav merely gave a subtle shrug of his shoulders. “It was hard not to know her. You and I both know Miss Reznikov has a certain air about herself, one that can be hard to ignore.” This was by no means an insult, merely fact straight from the elder vampire’s mouth. 

           His hues narrowed as he observed the way Elidi seemed to look at him, although he was able to distinguish no hint of malice...though perhaps thought? Stanislav could very much relate to the sentiment, but he tried not to get that ahead of himself--at least for tonight. It was a Masquerade after all. Even if he felt much too embarrassed to express his fondness for Kiki, perhaps Stanislav was willing to place much more trust into the witch seeing as she was an important figure within his lover’s life. 

      An amused, though silent huff escaped the taller male’s frame as Elidi both complimented and noted his mannerisms. If it had been anyone else he likely would have felt defensive. “Yes, maybe so.” The vampire agreed. Giving a dismissive shake of his head, Stanislav raised his glass to his lips once more and partook in a small drink. “Your line of work makes sense--such is to be expected of a detective. You needn’t worry, Miss Elidi. Though I harbor a feeling you already know that.” As much as Elidi came forward as a woman who rarely let go of composure, it seemed everyone didn’t quite know how to interact with the vampire king. One one hand such intimidation helped him keep his subjects under law, but it didn’t seem to dissuade any nosey publicists keen on prying into the LSA’s affairs. 

            “You understand what  your duties entail, but I suppose when it comes to your obligations there is an almost scripted routine. Less room for error--than say, leisurely conversation. I understand such a sentiment.” Despite not divulging any further detail, the vampire knew his way around the politics of Tabula Rasa and had even found himself to be quite formidable at negotiation. This was something Kiki and Tamryn had mentioned, however--outside of work, Stanislav was virtually a blank canvas. Even if Elidi’s predicaments weren’t as drastic, there was an element of familiarity within her words that had seemed to resonate within the LSA official.

           

Elidi let out an amused laugh, nodding along in agreement with his statement about Tamryn. There had been a time when Elidi would go out of her way to avoid the Alpha, the entire pack even. Not because she feared her or her clan but because of the energy Tamryn carried herself with, a dangerous enticement, something Elidi deemed herself too busy to be distracted with. So much so she'd go as far as changing her number to detere any interaction with the redhead.

A dark blush settled across her cheeks, though she refused to avert her gaze this time around, a smile still present on her reddened lips, "I know exactly what you mean..." How amazing how particular their relationship was now. The witch could feel her heart, warm in her chest, stomach fluttering with butterflies at the thought of Tamryn alone. She felt grateful, treasured to be able to experience a side of the Alpha that no one else knew, this journey new to both of the women. Elidi's head tilted forward bashfully, her gaze earthward as she observed the intricate design along the floor boards. "Forgive my sentiments but I'm... glad I finally got to know her."

Somewhat grateful for a change in topic, she thoughtfully weighed his observation, finding herself both agreeing and disagreeing. "I worked outside of Tabula as an officer, albeit briefly, that felt more routine. That is, if you're following the book like you should. Tabula tends to vary in all things, I can't say I've had a case that is entirely the same as one before. With so many species brings an assortment of ways to commit a crime, distinctly varying." Of course, unless they happened to be a serial killer. Her brows raised thoughtfully. It would be best not to mention that.

A smile tugged the corners of her lips, a pleasing sense of familiarity overcoming her. They both seemed to be lacking a bit in the social department, though Stan seemed to carry himself better than she did in some aspects. How silly that she felt quite proud to carry on a conversation and not feel the pressure to keep the discussion afloat. It felt natural, comfortable to the witch.

"May I ask a question? You dont have to answer of course but I've been curious. How exactly did you meet Kiki, at the fair perhaps?" Her head tilted thoughtfully. Her student hadn't mentioned how she met her vampire, only that she had one, and then slowly her friend circle kept expanding. More vampires, an angel, Kiki had even mentioned Jaylah. It was a headache to try and keep up with who Kiki befriended, it was easier to note who wasn't a friend, if any. The thought presses another matter, Kiki wasn't exactly on good terms with Tamryn. Whether she knew that or not.

She knew the question was out of the blue, especially since she had just asked one previous, part of her thought it was rude even to ask such a inquiring question, especially on this night. Yet, she didn't know anyone else who knew Kiki quite as well, someone closer to the wiccan than he was. Elidi didn't think she was being foolish, Stan would give her an honest answer, if he chose to give any at all.

Briefly she's apologetic, perhaps ruining the slight progress the two had made together. "....Do you think Kiki has malicious intent?" There is a short pause, struggling to find the appropriate words, "Please don't misunderstand, I think very highly of Kiki, and this is not a discussion for me to discuss her poorly. I know she wouldn't -- ... I just want to make sure my judgment isn't hindered by my connection with her." Her brows draw together, fingetips tapping nervously together. While Kiki hadn't destroyed anything of value, the witch had strong spellbooks stored in her home, ones that could be dangerous in the wrong hands. Hence the wards set around to alert the detective to any intruders. That and a few other reasons..

[kiki-wiccan]

Kasumi looked down to the ground in slight disappointment as he confirmed that having cake now was out of the question. However, he was excited to try pizza.                

       “Ohhh… I’ve heard of cars before! So this is what that is.  Cars have a lot of variety, don’t they? Some are very big.”  Kasumi was clearly fascinated by the concept. “Humans have grown so much since last time I was here.”               After Kiki helped him buckle himself in, he felt obligated to answer all her questions.  “Of course I can fly! I could probably take a human with me if they wanted.  And I’ve been to earth before, it was just… uh… maybe 150 years ago?  Something kinda traumatic happened to me back then, and so I’ve been with the other angels in heaven since.” Kasumi’s mood darkened a little bit as he recalled the events 150 years ago. They’d resulted in new powers, but he wasn’t exactly fond of how it happened.          

          “I find humans fascinating, though! In just a short time, they built so much technology and architecture, and I love listening to their music! They’ve even made new instruments for music, and science tools to look at the stars and– ah, I’m rambling.” Kasumi stopped speaking for a moment, shyly looking out the window.  He took notice of the affection Stan and Kiki showed toward each other, and it warmed his heart.        

        “Do you two… ah nevermind.  Do you have any other questions?”

It was of no surprise that the angel could fly, but Stanislav wasn’t all-too impressed considering his own capabilities. However, he’d allow Kiki and Kasumi their moment of bonding.

        Though surprised that Kiki wished to sit in the passenger seat, it was more than welcomed. If anything, it would give the vampire king another excuse to be much closer to her; perhaps rest his hand on her thigh...how odd that he seemed to crave the wiccan’s touch.

           Stanislav patiently waited for Kasumi to strap himself in, overhearing the way Kiki seemed to be teaching the mythos how to adapt to the times. He used the rear-view mirror to observe the angel, though it was hard to tell what the vampire was thinking or feeling. Though his guard had certainly relaxed after meeting Kasumi, he wasn’t keen on trusting him just yet. Perhaps it was because the vampire had grown rather protective over Kiki; but of course he would never admit such a thing aloud.

            As Kasumi rambled, Stanislav noted every word, every example. He wasn’t quite sure how long the angel had lived, but he could certainly relate to the development of technology--he had four centuries worth of life to reflect upon.

          When Kiki interlaced her fingers with his own, Stanislav gave a small, silent squeeze. He couldn’t help himself, not when it had become their “thing”. It was a way for him to remind the wiccan of his affections.

         “You’re free to ramble, Mister Kasumi. I do agree with your sentiment. The times have certainly changed...” Stanislav mumbled. Taking Kiki’s consideration into account, along with Kasumi’s lack of response, the vampire king began the drive to a Domino’s. Domino’s...what an odd choice; and while he couldn’t understand the affinity towards such a place, he had no right to complain. After all, this is what Kiki and Kasumi wanted.

       Otherwise, after his initial speak, the vampire king seemed to enter a silence; watching the road before him as he mentally relayed a map of Tabula Rasa. Though he had never required sustenance, he could think of a few locations to take the two. That, and he didn’t feel like talking.

Squeezing Stans hand even harder, gasping as she heard that Kasumi could in fact fly. “You have to take me flying! I’ve always wondered what it would be like to soar through the sky! I’ve even had dreams where I had wings and could fly! Pleassseee!” She looked absolutely star struck, how amazing it would be to fly with an angel. She could just remember how she used to spread out her arms and run around outside while pretending she was a fairy or other winged creature. She was shocked when Kasumi admitted to being on earth so many years ago. “Wow....everyone here’s been around for so long, it’s must’ve been so fascinating watching as the world changed and developed over the times. I’m glad I was born in this time however. In a world were supernaturals and humans can live together without many issues. I know how hard it must have been to be a supernatural back when they were hated and hunted.” Sadly she knew how it felt to be hated for what you are, coming from a town that was against supernaturals and anything related to them. Experiencing the hate and backlash herself she could only imagine how awful it must have been in the past when most of the world functioned like that.

“No need to apologize for rambling I enjoy listening to what you have to say! As for questions I have so many!” The poor angel was about to be bombarded with Kikis curiousity. “What’s god like? I’ve always thought he’d be a lot more chill then what people made him out to be...What’s heaven like? Oh I hope it’s beautiful! Do you have wings? What powers do angels have? Does this mean demons exist too? Oh I want to meet a demon how fascinating that would be!”

[leowyattv]

Steep Grade Fadeaway

Day is a Monday, lease On life’s right side of the low- Lying greens, order’d by law, Creases, offering a hand to hench- Men handy for odd-jobs re- Pression & phobia with wolf spider Ire stocking its stuffing, venom Plenum spokes from eight- legged gait, unipolar police Police who didst to citizen do South bayway sword maneuver —dune ballooning din—kill them :: moths from mothta spread— I’m a member of.— online soap seas cap’n gown loan shark says-he’s—sore lark admin the sole soul food restaurant— vessels contain company that’s it—company THE THING IS IS VANDAL SURE-FOOT’D SHOE YOU’LL DISAPPOINT ME —Dianne of diagnostics Prism blend’d light, you mean honestly ~ i ~, ere Administration's penchant for pens & Cagey humors, pent up & alloted limited stock On pinterest’s pinner plot Would extraction begin, even Helices interr, interject Baby Christ’s liverwurst extrusion, Redux of suede luxe ever does thine slow- f[x] fool on a lark's wing in folly err; But general, the nut sacks, please, topp'd Sweetener glaze (never for gays) Sweat frosting from ecclesiast's evac- Uation jizzum, eat- ery just a- Round the bend over good That IndyCar 500 cock. 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Mama, in the maw Of a monster it appears When spat to mangrove’s entanglements In whose rootless cloak Womb-like repair’d did I float On Tidal pressure’s pat turns Of wave phrase & coastal sound. Grammy’s telegram Faroff drawing graph’d out In double bass clef, whitebread from the top of Wonderbread ridge, Omi? [[[ hives, hexagon life-rafts Ashkanazi Jews descendents in whose Nameless lineage bow’d heads lean past stalk & branch ]]] Holocaust a hologram to fool’s corner; Survived, devised lives, could I Then, they this disbelief hold After the fact hush, scattering creed, Belief like layers of sound same Overlaid, distortion via copying; this Terrain vague makes us Hungry for disbelief & away,— Shame at sensation’s predicate, we’re not we’re not were not them—then. Characters glynne & surrowe, iyse foes may say will not into world will For will’s sake. 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[altughuner-blog]

Namaste! How else should I begin this post!

The greeting is the first thing that you learn about a place. It is the first thing that you get to hear in your flight, at the airport, in the taxi and of course at the travel destinations. Greeting from your homeland is also something you carry with you.

Namaste is the most commonly used greeting in India. Very often, when people realize you are an Indian, they fold hands and greet you with a Namaste.

However, when nothing in India is universal, how can our greetings be. Here is a list of some of the commonly used greetings across India.

Thanks to my Twitter and FB timeline for adding to this list. I knew most of them, but some of them like Dhaal Karu from Himachal was a revelation for me.

Researching for this post was absolute fun.

1. Namaste & its Variants

Namaste means ‘I bow to the divine in you’. Ask any Hippie and they would even say ‘The divine in me bows to the divine in you’.

The term has many variants – Namaskar, which is ideally used when you address more than one person.

In Kerala it becomes Namaskaram, in Karnataka it goes as Namaskara and in Andhra states Namaskaramu.

Nepal also uses the same term or Namaskar to greet.

They all mean the same – acknowledging the divine or good in you before any conversation or transaction begins.

2. Ram Ram & its variants

After the more popular Namaste greeting, Ram Ram and its various variants are used in most of the Hindi speaking belt to greet each other. In Awadh and Mithila you hear Sita Ram, Sita Ram. At areas of Bihar and Jharkhand, it becomes Jai Siya Ram. In Haryana, it is usually Ram Ram.

The idea behind this greeting to remember Sri Ram who is the 7th Avatar of Vishnu. Considered Maryada Purushottam, it is probably a way to remind each other and oneself to follow his conduct.

3. Jai Sri Krishna in Gujarat

If you have traveled in Gujarat, interacted with Gujarati families or even watched Gujarati content on TV, you know they all greet each other with ‘Jai Sri Krishna‘.

Krishna chose to make Dwarka his golden city, he ruled the world from here and continues to rule the hearts of the people of Gujarat.

In Dwarka, the greeting becomes more specific to – Jai Dwarkadhish.

4. Radhe Radhe in Braj Bhumi

In Braj, Radha rules. She is the queen and she is the Gopika. To reach Krishna too, you have to go through her. You don’t need to read or know anything about her. Just land anywhere in Braj and ‘Radhe Radhe‘ is not just a greeting but it means excuse me, leave my way, an exclamation and anything that does not need other words.

Jai Sri Radhe is a variant that you hear in temples of Braj sometimes.

5. Sat Sri Akaal in Punjab

A common greeting among Sikhs and Punjabis is Sat Sri Akaal. Sat means Truth, Sri is a respectful honorific and Akaal means timeless. So, you are essentially remembering the Timeless Truth or that Truth is Timeless and resides within all of us.

Sat Sri Akaal is a part of the clarion call given by Guru Gobind Singh – Jo Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akaal.

Another longer greeting is ‘Waheguru Ji ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji ki Fateh‘ – it is a reminder that all of us come from that one supreme being which is pure and at the end that is what remains.

6. Vanakkam – Tamil Nadu

Vanakkam is used by Tamil people living anywhere in the world. Essentially it means the same as Namaste. It is bowing down to or respecting the divine inside you. It comes from the root word – Vanagu meaning to bow down. Some literature mentions that Vanakkam specifically refers to the divine at the third eye located between your brows.

7. Khamma Ghani – Rajasthan

I first heard Khamma Ghani in some Hindi films based in Rajasthan. Next, I heard it during my visit to Udaipur. In my mind, it got associated with Rajasthan, but no one could explain what it meant. Now, I have two theories for this:

First is simple – Khamma comes from Sanskrit Kshama meaning forgiveness. Ghani means ‘a lot’. So, the greeting Khamma Ghani simply means – seeking forgiveness for any inadvertent hurt that may have been done or any lapses in hospitality.

The second source one is more historical – in 8th CE AD, 3 successive Mewari Kings, sharing the common name Khumaan, averted many attacks by Arabs. Due to this, the people in their kingdom lived happily for the next 1000 years or so. So, people started greeting each other ‘Khamma Ghani’ meaning ‘May we be blessed with many Khumaans’.

Take your pick for the meaning but when people say it with folded hands – it is a sweet greeting to exchange.

When used with elders Sa is added at the end – Khamma Ghani Sa.

8. Jule – Ladakh

When you travel through the Lahaul Spiti Valley in Himachal or do road trips in Ladakh, you are bound to be greeted with ‘Jule’, pronounced as Joo-Lay. It is a greeting mostly used by Buddhist dominated areas of the Himalayan valleys. It probably means ‘Respect’. I am not sure what it means and what is the root word. If you know, please share.

Just like Radhe Radhe, Jule too can mean thank you, please, excuse me or just Hello.

Tashi Delek is also used in some places.

9. Jai Jinendra – Jains across India

Jai Jinendra is used by all Jains to greet each other. We do not hear it very much as the Jains are a very small minority even within India and they usually use it among themselves only.

Jai Jinendra means victory to Jinendra or the Tirthankar, the souls who have won over their all their senses and have realized the ultimate knowledge.

This greeting directly bows downs to those who have real knowledge.

10. Swami Sharanam by followers of Ayyappa

Swami Sharanam or Swami Sharnam Ayyappa is actually a chant that is also used as a greeting by followers of Ayyappa when they meet each other. They start and end the conversation with this chant. Ayyappa followers are found in Kerala and all other south Indian states.

11. Aadab – Muslims primarily

Aadab is used to greet by followers of Islam and in places where Urdu is spoken. Could not find the meaning or intent of the word. If you know, please share.

12. Dhaal Karu in Himachal

This is another greeting from Himachal, though I will be honest, I am yet to hear it. However, my Himachali friends confirm this is used in Kullu Manali region of the state. The meaning is most probably similar to Namaste.

13. Narmade Har – On banks of Narmada

When you walk with the Narmada, the most common greeting you would hear is ‘Narmade Har’ – may the Narmada take away all your sorrows and sufferings.

Har Har Gange is also heard at places like Rishikesh, Prayagraj, and Varanasi, but not so consistently.

14. Jai Jai – Bikaner

During a trip to Bikaner, I heard the hotel greet us with ‘Jai Jai’. When I inquired, they said, this is how Bikaner greets people. I have not heard it outside the hotel, but it sounds very sweet, royal and full of Veer Rasa or emotion of bravery.

15. Pranam – for the elders

This is an India wide greeting used by the younger people to greet the elders. More often than not, it is complemented by touching the feet.

16. Region-based Greetings

Jai Bhole Nath – Varanasi. The city of Shiva has to have a greeting with his name

Jai Jagannath in Puri and around Odisha

and more

Jai Shri Mahakal in Ujjain

Jai Sri Radhe Govind in Jaipur

17. Hello

Hello is not really an Indian greeting but probably the most used, especially on phone and in urban areas. Before writing this post I had no idea about the origins of the word ‘Hello’, although we used it so many times every day. Apparently, it is not a greeting per se but a way of drawing attention. Another contender for this is Ahoy.

Read this shockingly Short History of Hello.

Hi, it seems is the shortened version of Hello.

18. Good Morning

Good Morning, Good Afternoon, Good Evening or Good Night is the neutral or should I say secular ways to greet anyone. I think I picked it up in school and continued using it till my corporate life. The Good Morning though got reduced to just Morning 🙂

19. Jai Jhulelal

Jai Jhulelal is used by the Sindhi community. Jhulelal is supposed to be the incarnation of Varun, the lord of the seas.

20. Jai Mata Di

It is used by the followers of the Devi or the divine feminine. Mata here refers to Jagadamba or the mother who is the creator, sustainer, and destroyer of everything that exists in this universe.

21. Ayubowan in Sri Lanka

Ayubowan in Sri Lanka comes from Sanskrit – Ayushman Bhava which means ‘May you have a long life’.

22. Sawasdee in Thailand

Sawasdee, the ubiquitous greeting of Thailand, also said with folded hands from Swasti which means wishing well.

All the greetings that have an origin in India or Sanskrit are said with folded hands formally, although informally sometimes you just say them.

Have I missed any Indian greeting? Tell us in the comments below.

The post Namaste! Learn 20 More Ways To Greet In India – Surprised? appeared first on Inditales.