#the casual encouragement in her immense self doubt

[biitchcakes]

❝ Did Captain America himself ask you, the amazing SPIDER-WOMAN, to be an Avenger ? ❞

[mythicamagic]

6 - a kiss on the cheek.

6: a kiss on the cheek.

---

Kagome opened and closed her mouth for a while, floundering. The demoness waited patiently, seeming to find immense pleasure in watching her float between confusion and shock.

"B-but..." she croaked weakly, a random thought occurring to her. "I had...plans..."

Inukimi snorted and giggled, reaching out and grasping the woman's chin to gain her dazed attention. "Those will have to wait for a little while. Tell me, does my son know?"

"No I-I don't think so," Kagome slowly shook herself and straightened. "At least, he gave me no indication that he knew. He offered me sake, so I'm pretty sure he doesn't."

Humming while releasing her, Inukimi smirked and took a drag of her forgotten pipe. "He has not spent much time around pregnant women, that is likely why he did not catch on. You'd have thought he'd notice your change in scent though."

Kagome frowned softly. "I was away for a short while and came back a little different, maybe he put it down to that. It doesn't matter though-"

"It does matter," his mother sniffed, gaining a ruthless edge to her smile. "I am going to thoroughly enjoy that prideful pup's reaction to this ever so wonderful news," she started to drift away.

Blue eyes grew round and Kagome suddenly found herself desperate to get ahead of the smirking woman. "Wait!" she sprinted forward, dashing in front of Inukimi and spreading both arms wide to block her way. "Please don't say anything!"

A pale brow rose, "you wish to keep it from him?"

"N-no...it's just that I want to be the one to tell him," she murmured, dropping her hands to her stomach. "This is a mess but in a way, I'm not hugely surprised after the amount of-" pale cheeks tinged red and Kagome quickly hopped over what she was going to say. "Birth control isn't 100% effective either. I know that, but I'm still reeling. We only just entered a real relationship, though I've had feelings for him longer than that. So this is just...a lot. Especially for a new couple like us. I'd really rather my potential...mate...hear this from me."

Inukimi drew her chin down, raising her eyebrows as she gave a loud and undignified snort. "Is that so?" her tone dropped.

Kagome steeled herself, nodding firmly.

Her potential mother-in-law let out a short laugh. It condensed like a cloud of smoke around them. "Well said. I do like seeing that little spark of defiance in your eye, miko. Very well, tell him- and then come inform me so that I may start teasing him."

Letting out a sigh of relief, Kagome smiled weakly. Now came the hard part. How exactly could she tell him something she couldn't even properly wrap her head around herself?

-----

As it turned out; she couldn't.

Kagome had been planning on telling the haughty lord immediately, first chance she got, the second she lay eyes on him in fact. But when she'd finally found him in the sitting room he'd been so warm and gentle. Golden eyes had softened in a way they refused to around others, drawing near. He'd also looked a touch sleepy, which had resulted in Kagome making a witty quip that he'd fired back before they'd lulled into kisses and rest.

It wasn't like she wanted to keep things from him. Bringing up the subject proved highly difficult in her humble opinion. What was she supposed to say? 'Hey Sesshoumaru, I know we've technically only been in a relationship for like two days but fancy a Fast Pass into parenthood with me?'

Hmm, no. It lacked a certain je ne sais quoi that she couldn't place her finger on.

Kagome sighed, having held her tongue for a whole week. She could sense Inukimi glaring daggers into her from across the room as they attended a youkai gathering within a great ivory hall. No doubt the primadonna felt dissatisfied with her lack of progress.

The nobles gave the miko a wide berth and she didn't much care, too much on her mind. Sesshoumaru appeared deep in conversation with another lord. He'd been lingering by her side for the majority of the evening but Kagome had encouraged him to go mingle, seeing no sense in wasting the night.

Resting her head back against a stone pillar and nursing a cup of saké she held just for show, she nibbled on her bottom lip, turning the situation over in her mind again and again. Deep down Kagome knew the real reason she hesitated in telling him. They were so fresh-faced and new. She was only just getting used to the concept of 'them' long term instead of longing for him as she would those lonely nights in Kaede's hut. Perhaps it was selfish but Kagome somewhat wanted things to stay in stasis. To linger in the pleasant place where just 'them' existed, and they could talk, make love, laugh and only worry about themselves like any normal couple just starting out.

But...that wasn't their reality anymore. Kagome's shoulders fell and she bid that fantasy a silent farewell. Having a baby wasn't a sad thought, however, it did bring hundreds of questions and complications with it.

Well there's no use in fretting about it by myself. I'll tell him tonigh-

Blue eyes had strayed back to the pale lord. Kagome stiffened. She suddenly became hyper-focused on the woman standing much too close beside him. A tanned kitsune with silky red hair maintained eye contact with him, before laughing delicately and resting a casual hand on his arm, thumb dragging deliberately.

Kagome bristled, feeling a stab of something in her chest. Old wounds began to surface, intrusive thoughts seeping in like a burst dam of glue. It poured in and clogged her mind. Blinking hard, she swallowed. It took a moment to push these habits down and not fall into jealousy or call her self esteem into question.

Shaking away the false image of Sesshoumaru leaning closer to the stranger, she forced herself to look at the situation clearly. Sesshoumaru's jaw was clenched. There was the faintest hint of a sneer tugging pale lips steadily downward. He did not move away- not out of interest, but pure pride to never give ground to anyone. Displeasure fanned out into his aura like a riled cat.

Tilting her chin up and pushing both shoulders back, Kagome set the forgotten saké cup down and approached. Crushing her worries beneath her heel and firmly holding onto her ego that had been so stroked and soothed by Sesshoumaru, she inserted herself between them. The miko smiled and pushed up on tip-toe to place a loving kiss against his striped cheek, lingering a little longer than necessary.

Sesshoumaru made a low noise, his hand naturally finding the small of her back.

Leaning away, Kagome flashed a smile. "Hi there," she said.

The frost in his eyes gave way to Spring. "Hello," he rumbled with amusement.

Turning to introduce herself to the stranger, Kagome bowed and chatted small talk with the woman, who turned out to be a princess from a tribe. She quickly seemed to grow frustrated and excused herself, leaving them alone.

Kagome glanced up at him, taking his arm. "Wanna get out of here?"

Sesshoumaru's attention roved over her face and he seemed to sense the weight underlying the casual offer. He inclined his head, removing his arm from her grasp to wrap it around her waist.

"Hn."

[teruthecreator]

THS IS A ROBBERY 🔫YOUR ROLESWAP LORE!!! HAND IT OVER 🤲if u want 2 :)

just took my melatonin bc i have to wake up at 4:30 AM to drive 16 hours to my mother’s so i’m sorry if this becomes derailed but uh. here’s the roleswap lore! or, at least, everything i’ve decided (along with matthew and corinne bc the three of us tagteamed on it) 

gonna chuck it all under a readmore bc this is going to get long

so first off, just gonna run out in front and say i have no idea how this fits into graduation plot. i haven’t gotten that in plot consideration, given their character differences in comparison to their canonical selves. so, for the most part, it’s a lot of background establishment and character traits. but i do have a few plot bits that i’ve figured out bc i thought it was cool. why such a long preamble? i don’t know. help me

fitzroy maplecourt: 

first off, he’s not called sir!!! because he doesn’t go to knight school! 

my idea for his backstory is that the way he decides to grapple with his identity crisis/imposter syndrome (which he definitely Still has) is that instead of becoming a grander, larger than life version of himself. he just. goes the opposite.

not necessarily becoming a degenerate (bc he just smokes pot and that’s not bad he’s just vibing)??? but more just like. leaning into the laid-back nature of life that one might pick up from a lifetime in rural country. 

he goes to a liberal arts school a ways away and just decides to bum around and take life not seriously. he develops a pretty large group of acquaintances being a hippie stoner; he doesn’t really pursue a degree either. i think if he picked up any major it was probably like. an art major or an english but he basically fails most of his classes bc he doesn’t care! 

unlike his canonical counterpart, fitzroy doesn’t mind being called nicknames!! ones i think he has the most are fitz or roy, but basically you could call him anything and he’ll respond. that is because, instead of clinging to the concept of his identity bc it’s the only thing he feels he has, his identity is nebulous!! he doesn’t understand it and it scares him too much to be concrete, so he just lets people decide shit about him for him. 

his personal philosophy is more about floating through life and letting people assume shit about him than having a solid personality and backstory that people understand and recognize. it is a more dissociative way of having an identity crisis! how fun! he also barely talks about his past, and what he does talk about are cherrypicked points of his past that fit his narrative of being a casual down-to-earth hippie

 the moment that this all changes is when order decides to pop in and grant him powers!!!! wahoo!!!! here’s how that happens: 

he’s baked out of his fucking gourd in his dorm room, in the spring semester of his junior year. he’s alone (which is rare) and he’s maybe a little sad, but he decides to just ignore it. he looks at his table and laughs. “hehe, what if this table just. blew up?” he says to himself. it isn’t that funny, but he laughs. then he lays his hand on the table. 

the table blows up.

after that, he has magic!!! 

i’m going to go into detail a little bit later about how fitzroy’s magic manifests in the roleswap universe, but i wanna get through the backstory first. basically, he gets really freaked out after his magic comes to him because it is So New and Wow What and What The Fuck.

he realizes that this new addition to his character Completely changes how people who know him would perceive him (as a bum stoner chill guy), and he can no longer have control of his narrative with this magic business. so he drops out!

well, he actually just transfers. to a school far, far away where people will never know who he was and he can rebuild his narrative with this magic incorporated into it. he chooses wiggenstaff’s because he figures the school would have more of a knowledge of magic than his libarts school, which would mean he could understand why the fuck weed gave him magic (sidenote: it wasn’t weed, obvs, but he thinks this so for a while he doesn’t smoke!) 

he is now the chill hippie of wiggenstaff’s!!! most people like him because his personality is fairly easy to digest; some people think he shouldn’t be there, but he is! he starts out as a sidekick and he would’ve honestly been fine with that forever, but then he’s suddenly thrust into the hero track!!! wow!!!! i will also explain this with the magic. 

but yeah!! that’s fitzroy, for the most part. now we’ll move onto the other boy

argonaut keene:

he actually prefers if people call him argonaut, but he’s less likely to correct people than canon fitzroy Or canon argo. he’s a tad bit shyer in this universe!

argo’s backstory pretty much follows the same idea of his canonical background, but with some key differences that shape him into the character he is in the present! 

basically he still grows up on shebrie’s ship, surrounded by crewmates and the salty sea air. but his fascination with the sea doesn’t manifest into this swashbuckling lifestyle that he has in canon. 

what fascinates him more is the ship itself. how it functions, how water wears down wood, how directional currents can affect navigation. basically, he becomes invested in the sciences part of sealife more than the pirateering. he has special interests in marine biology, but his heart remains in nautical engineering. figuring out ways to make the ship run better, faster, and more efficiently consumes his childhood thoughts!

shebrie encourages her son’s craving for knowledge with tomes and books from all over the world about anything related to engineering and nautical things. he’s homeschooled, basically, but he becomes rather intelligent within a few short years! 

and then, well....shebrie dies. yeah we aren’t escaping that finality, sorry folks. that part of canon Still Applies.

after shebrie’s death (coughMURDERcough), argo is. traumatized! and he makes the decision to almost entirely sever himself from his life on the sea. it’s all too painful to look back upon--the times he spent studying with his mother in the captain’s quarters, rattling off dolphin facts as they sailed onward, dreaming of turning gears as the ship gently rocked him to sleep--and so he just decides to throw the whole thing out!

he can’t ignore his lifetime of education, though, so he continues to pursue it. with the remainder of money his mother left behind, he enrolls himself in a boarding school of science and technology, with plans to continue study in Only engineering. no more nautical Anything on his roster.

eventually, when he is old enough and graduates high school, he roams around...trying to figure out what to do. he doesn’t have enough money for college, so he can’t continue his scholarly efforts yet. he works around, job-to-job, city-to-city, and just notices how...delayed everything feels. like society is suffering under this slow pace towards innovation. 

and that’s when he decides his next course of action. if he were to discover the root of some problem and engineer a solution, he would be famous! he would gain notoriety and praise and--and all the things his mother had as a captain. but he would have it on his own, separate from his mother, and separate from his past. 

he figures out his next course of action: attend a school that will give his prestigious enough marks to be accepted onto a research team, find a problem, solve it, help the world, maybe earn a little bit of that credit and respect that would make him feel like he was doing his mother proud. 

the thing i want to emphasize here is that argo’s take on helping the world comes from that morality that canon fitzroy has. canon fitzroy wanted to be a knight because he wanted to fairly and justly instill ideas of “good” and “bad” onto the world. roleswap argo has a similar moral sense, but instead of establishing rules he wants to fix the “bad” and make it “good” in a technological/scientific sense.

the only school argo can think of that can get him that kind of notoriety is wiggenstaff’s. getting onto the HOG board would mean he’d have access to countless resources and be respected by a large audience, which would give him the opportunity to make change happen. even if he’s only a sidekick On Paper, what matters is that the diploma would give him the ability to Apply to the HOG. so he drafts a carefully worded letter for a scholarship and achieves a full-ride!!! epic 

like fitzroy’s magic, i’m going to break down argo’s relation to the unbroken chain after i get through backstory stuff. but trust me, I’ve Thought Of It

argo sort of blends into the background at wiggenstaff’s. or, he would, if his roommates/friends weren’t so Fucking Out There. fitzroy is enough to make him always be visible, but even the firbolg’s massive frame means eyes are always on him. which makes him nervous!! he doesn’t like the attention (as opposed to his canonical self, who revels in it for the self-esteem fuel) his insecurities manifest more in what he’s Doing rather than what he Is, mostly because his identity is barricaded by a wall of trauma repression

he’s still plenty funny and witty, just quieter. also he’s a lot Meaner than canon argo, at least to me. because if you irritate him he Will just completely shut you down with words. motherfucker doesn’t bark but he will most DEFINITELY bite

that’s their backstories, for the most part! in terms of how they interact together:

as established, they meet prior to wiggenstaff’s on a tinder date (during the grace period of argo working odd jobs and fitzroy about to be granted immense fucking power) and end up casually dating during the course of their wiggenstaff education. argo is a nervous goober and fitzroy just likes making him blush. it’s very cute.

fitzroy is still less inclined for the romantic than argo, who remains a steadfast absolute romantic internally. fitzroy still holds a lot of the self-doubt and distrust that canon fitzroy has, only it manifests in him not taking anything seriously! which means when he catches Feelings feelings he basically freaks out 

argo still falls in love really quickly, only now he’s more conflicted about it because being in love means trusting and trust means communication and communication means Oops Years Of Trauma Are Being Unloaded Uh Oh! 

now i’m going to touch on the big points that i find really interesting: fitzroy’s magic and argo’s relation to the unbroken chain

fitzroy’s magic:

chaos is not the being that grants him magic. it’s order! 

my take on what this means for what deity is on what plane of reality is that chaos is more Needed so they are the one that is physically On Nua, while Order remains in dreamscapes because they are already a constant amongst the tangible world. yes i know this directly contradicts the reasoning for why theyre Supposed to be where in canon, leave me alone i’m having fun. 

my reasoning for this switch is because chaos stands to be a contradiction to everything canon fitzroy has going on. he has a very strict, nailed-down understanding of himself and the world. everything he thinks is in black and white, bold statements, no questions, he follows rules and obeys the law. untiiiiil chaos gives him magic and shocks him out of that complacency. they lean into his inner impulses and that rage he’s kept locked deep inside. they allow for magic to Explode out of him, rather in calculated bursts or with intent. 

which is why order is more fitting for roleswap fitzroy!! because fitzroy, in this world, has less of a concrete grasp of himself and the world. he purposely lets himself be nebulous and goes with the flow. thinking of the future in real terms is not something fitzroy Does, he has no plans and that’s Fine. order seeks to give fitzroy a backbone, to put it simply. 

his magic doesn’t go impulsively out of him. it is calculated--it comes with thoughts and intentions. the reason it surprises fitzroy when the table blows up is because he didn’t think his thoughts or wants would amount into that, but that’s what order is trying to show him. that his intentions matter. that he matters and he has to Think and Focus and Be Here.

i’m still not sure if his power would manifest as lightning??? because the imagery for the lightning works perfectly for canon fitzroy because of the random power of lightning strikes. but for roleswap fitzroy it’s more like...thunder. like Purpose. thunder happens because of a reaction--it comes with intent. if differing air temperatures collide, it creates thunder. that combination is purpose + intent equating in magic. 

i think that part needs word bc like. how would one quantify thunder?? i think fire might also work really well because the idea of a controlled fire. like things have to Happen in order for fire to start, it can’t just appear like lightning can. 

order’s manipulation relies more heavily on the concept of boosting him up as a savior/hero, rather than boosting his ego and desire for power. fitzroy Has no desires in roleswap world--he’s just there. but when he gets put on the hero track, now he’s suddenly been given purpose. and order uses that to be like “wow, look at all these people who rely on you! look how important you are! don’t you want to use this magic for good?? to do good?? start a war with a demon come on pussy :-)”

OH YEAH also he becomes a hero in this universe (like in terms of tracks) because of the fact that it directly contradicts how he views himself. for canon fitzroy, it was showing him how much more he is capable of without the restrictions of morals (i.e, king fitzroy). but roleswap fitzroy doesn’t Have an image he wants to bolster! he doesn’t think he needs it and, frankly, he doesn’t care for it. the hero tracks carries with it all these stereotypes and expectations that now directly contradict his personality--thus showing him he is capable of more.

okay now for argo’s business jesus christ this post is so long and im NOT EVEN DONE WITH ALL THE POINTS I WANTED TO MENTION

argo’s relation to the unbroken chain:

so since roleswap argo has less of an association with his past (and, by extension, the memory of his mother), he is less inclined to join the mysterious cult that his mother was a part of. 

moreover, he doesn’t necessarily believe the shit he’s told??? he’s way more skeptical of jackal than canon argo is--immediately questioning why and how jackal knew his mother, and constantly trying to poke holes through his narrative.

generally speaking, if you try to talk to roleswap argo about his mother or his past, he Shuts Down. like completely. and that usually results in him snapping at you or just clamming up completely. mostly he just gets really snippy and angry because Hey Shut Up Dickhead I Don’t Want To Talk About It

a part of me still isn’t sure whether or not argo would take the unbroken chain up on their offer. but i also know that, plot wise and character arc wise, it is a necessary part of argo’s story. so i think, at most, he agrees but is extremely hesitant and might even let fitzroy on immediately once he’s given the task of digging into fitzroy’s life

also, they’re boyfriends in this universe, so how could he Really keep it a secret for that long. come on jackal, you idiot, you know they’re kissing. 

i think he’d Eventually warm up to jackal as a sort of father figure, but only after many nights of conversation and dancing around the subject of shebrie.

OH YEAH. this argo doesn’t know the commodore murdered his mother! important to note! he just assumes what he was told was true, that she sailed into dangerous territory and was ambushed. 

during the tribunal bit If That Even Happens In This World, i think fitzroy actually is the one who figures it out Before argo. and once argo does, well............fuck!

OKAY last little bit, just gonna talk about some random extra parts of the world that i’ve thought of already: 

in this universe, grey takes on higglemas’s identity instead of hieronymous’s!!! this is for good reason actually

okay so basically my thought was that, instead of whatever happened in canon yadda yadda dog time, hieronymous and grey are fighting and it’s a pretty evenly matched battle. there’s a cooldown moment where hiero thinks he’s safe but grey uses sneaky backhanded tactics to try and get the drop on him. 

only higgs sees it in time and saves his brother, taking the hit himself. he collapses, extremely wounded, and hiero rushes to his aid. he’s cradling his brother’s body, trying to keep him alive, when grey approaches to deliver the final blow. 

hiero is completely crushed and defeated and basically will let grey do anything to him by this point. the only thing he begs of is to let him live long enough to save his brother.

now, grey isn’t nice. let me make that clear. grey fucking SUCKS and the reason he agrees is because he wants a Real War with hiero and he can’t get that if hiero is basically like “if you let higgs die then you might as well kill me”.

so, grey agrees, and hiero ends up saving higgs by turning him into a cat. was supposed to be a temporary solution until he could find a better spell, but he wasn’t the magic guy in the duo. eventually, grey gets tired of waiting and decides to do some other shit. like turning the school the brothers have been running into a backalley place for demons!!

he takes the form of higglemas and leaves hieronymous locked in his office as basically a mascot. he’s like the queen and grey is the parliament--grey makes all the rules, but everyone assumes it’s hiero. faux-higgs is more on the ground, changing things and making the school a place more fitting for an eventual war. he builds up the concept of heroes and villains being Real, in the hopes he can sway some mortals to his side when he’s able to open a portal to hell. 

hiero still tries to stop this from happening, but his pride and his self-image is wounded by what happened. he feels guilty and puts the blame entirely on him, instead of doing the whole cowardice route like higgs did in canon. he gets people to help him eventually, via mind control and all tht jazz. 

also in this universe, buckminster is the one who gets birdified instead of leon!! has to do with my leon/buckminster and higgs/hiero narrative parallels that i’ve thought of for far too long.

firbolg is exactly the same in this universe. it is hard to swap three people and i didn’t want to think about him. 

fitzroy doesn’t pick a grab. i think he’d rather a lizard, like a bearded dragon. he names him something stupid. like scaly. or kyle. 

uhhh yeah!!! i think that’s....everything i’ve thought of so far!! lemme know if you wanna hear my takes on any other elements in the roleswap world!!!!

[sithsecrets]

A Matter of Expediency - Part IX

After being married off to Kylo Ren in the name of securing an heir to the First Order’s throne, a princess tries to navigate the ins and outs of married life. As she grows closer to her new husband, the princess also carves out a place for herself in the Order, assuming control over her life when she thought she would have none.

---

Part 9

4.7k words

Mentions: swearing

---

The next several weeks of your life are a virtual continuum of meetings and planning sessions. You work both with the Board of Charitable Affairs and alone, studying poverty statistics, learning about various cultures, and deciding which locations and issues take precedence over other points of interest. It’s a lot of hard work, but you find satisfaction in your duties nonetheless. Every positive report and letter of gratitude that falls into your hands staves off feelings of burnout and discouragement, and after a month and a half, you feel like you’ve made a real difference in the lives of some of your underprivileged subjects. Even so, there’s still so much to be done, but you’re more than ready to rise to the occasion.

Other members of the Board are wowed by your dedication, and even some the Chairwoman’s cronies admit that your proposals have merit. Evan herself is still a thorn in your side, but mostly harmless. Her jabs are sly, and you know that she gossips about you behind your back. She’s furious that you’re doing so well, and it shows in every malicious remark. The Chairwoman could do nothing to spoil the work you love so much, and in any case, the friendships you’ve forged with your peers are fine buffers for her nastiness.

Overall, you feel more comfortable on the ship now. You know your way around for the most part, the strangers are less strange… The Supremacy feels like home, almost. You still miss sunshine and breathing real air, but you’re acclimating to this environment, to this life. People regard you with respect, and you think that most of them even like you— what more could you want?

Even your relationship with your husband has become a bit… smoother. The two of you have fallen into a routine together, and though you sometimes wish you saw Kylo more during the day, you’re still content to spend your evenings with him, to share his bed. He remains pleased with your charitable work, and you even caught him singing your praises to a group of officers once. Every compliment from Kylo, be it about your work, your appearance, or something else, never fails to make your pulse quicken, and you try to show him just as much kindness. Kylo isn’t free with his physical affection outside of the bedroom, but he does hold you each night as the two of you fall asleep, regardless of if you’ve had sex first or not. Though you yearn for a bit more affection in your marriage, this gesture does give you a bit of hope. You know that you’ve come to care deeply for Kylo, and you think (hope, pray) that he cares for you as well.

You find yourself mulling over the nature of you and your husband’s relationship frequently, plagued with worries about your connection. Truthfully, you wish you could see into the future so you could confirm for yourself whether or not you and Kylo will ever fall in love, but you have no such abilities. So, you’re left to wonder in silence, alone with your thoughts. You ponder the notion of simply being friends with the man you’re married to, of being cordial with the father of your children. The idea leaves a bad taste in your mouth, and you finally gather up the courage to voice your concerns to someone you think may be able to understand.

“Miriam,” you say one evening, eyes your attendant in the mirror as she brushes your hair. She is focused on her work, never looking up at you even as she speaks.

“Yes, Empress?”

“Have you ever worked for someone like me before?” you ask, immediately realizing how the question could be cause for confusion. “I mean, have you ever worked for someone who’s marriage was arranged?”

“Oh yes,” Miriam says at once, adjusting her stance as she works out a knot. “Many of the women I’ve served had their marriages arranged. Some of them never even laid eyes on their husbands before their wedding day.”

The mere notion of such circumstances makes you feel marginally luck, seeing that you got to meet Kylo more than once after your engagement. Not knowing what your husband looked like before you married him? Stars above…

You sit up a bit on your stool, hands fidgeting. “Did… Did it usually turn out okay?”

“Define ‘okay’,” Miriam says slowly, throwing you a curious look in the mirror now.

“Well… Did the couples usually end up caring for one another? As lovers do, I mean, and not just as partners or… or teammates.”

Miriam sets your brush down on the vanity in front of you, running her fingers through your hair absently as she decides what to do with it. “I’ve only seen one such marriage play out terribly, and I think it had more to do with their age difference and the husband’s proclivities than anything else. In every other case, at least in my experience, the couples ended up caring deeply for one another.” Miriam expression shifts to one of concern, and she sets her hands on your shoulders rather gently. “Why do you ask, my lady?”

You could dismiss Miriam, you know. You could tell her that you’re done talking, you could shut her down completely and demand that she dress you without saying anything more. But Miriam doesn’t deserve to be treated that way, and your heart is too raw for cruelty at the moment.

Miriam must take your hesitation to speak as an indicator of trouble, because she narrows her brow and asks, “Has everything been alright with the Supreme Leader, Empress?”

It’s a bold question, almost too bold, but you’re happy to know that Miriam feels safe enough with you to speak in such a fashion.

“No, no,” you say quickly, rushing to assure your attendant that you’re okay. Because you are, in the grand scheme of things— you’ve just been locked inside your head too much lately. “Kylo’s been wonderful. I just— I just hope that I have his heart, or that I’ll come to have it, eventually.”

You hate yourself for crying, swiping away the tear that rolls down your cheek as if it’s burning your skin. Miriam watches you do this, concern and sympathy written plainly on her face. She finally takes her hands off your shoulders, threading her fingers through your hair now. An outsider would think that she was simply sectioning off your hair for styling, but her touch is far too gentle against your scalp to be anything less than comforting.

“Does the Supreme Leader have your heart, Empress?” Miriam asks quietly.

You force yourself to swallow the lump in your throat, biting back more tears. As a result, your voice is nothing more than a strained whisper. “I think so.” Miriam’s eyes soften considerably, and she quits fussing with your hair. You bark out a laugh, though it’s a humorless one. “Isn’t that pathetic? “I’m in emotional turmoil because I have a crush on my husband.”

Your attendant replies, failing to acknowledge your self-deprecating remark. “Though I don’t profess to know his feelings, I do believe that the Supreme Leader cares for you,” Miriam states, making an actual effort to style your hair now. “He doesn’t parade you around like a trophy or a decoration, but he does like having you by his side when the two of you make appearances. And you’ve told me yourself that he’s proud of the work you’ve done for all of the Order’s charitable causes. Men who don’t care for their wives definitely don’t care about what their wives do, no matter how great their achievements.”

Miriam pauses to meet your eyes in the mirror, smiling warmly. You return to the gesture, already feeling a bit silly about your little crisis. Everything that Miriam’s said isn’t news to you— perhaps you just needed to hear it from someone who’s not involved the way you are.

“And,” your attendant adds, “if I may be so bold… his affection for you is written plainly on your skin.”

Your entire body floods with heat at this, and your face turns so red so fast that it’s almost unnatural. You know good and well what Miriam’s referring to, the love bites on your shoulder, the bitemark on your chest. Kylo called them “reminders” the first time he ever put such a thing on your body— they’re supposed to help you remember how beautiful he thinks you are. And though you like to think that the sentiment is something special, you downplay it now in front of Miriam now.

“He could do that to anyone,” you say, flustered. Miriam raises her eyebrows a little, casual.

“He could,” she concedes, “but he doesn’t. He marks you where only the two of you can see. It’s not a possessive action, not meant for the benefit of others.”

You quite like the sound of that, but your embarrassment prevents you from saying so. Miriam tucks one last pin into your hair, and then her hands are gripping your shoulders again.

“The Supreme Leader thinks much of you,” she declares, “both as a diplomat and as his wife.”

You nod at this, encouraged by the serious look in your attendant’s eyes. Miriam gives you the smallest of shakes, a gesture meant to punctuate her conviction. “Love will come,” she assures you, “I promise.”

Part of you wants to argue, wants to say “what if,” but you push every doubting remark back down your throat. Miriam is no great oracle, she can’t possibly know how everything’s going to play out, but you trust her immensely. She’s lived far more life than you have, and if she says that something’s going to happen, then it likely will. And in any case, Kylo is sweet to you, he does hold you and kiss you and call you his when the door is closed and the lights are low. So for now, you choose to be content with what you have.

“Love will come.”

---

The rest of your day is rife with meetings and political engagements, more so than usual. You receive countless ambassadors and visiting parties in the throne room, talking with each and every single person at length about their concerns and worries. Winter is fast approaching on some of the Order’s most underprivileged possessions, and many leaders from those planets and territories fear for their poor and sick. You sympathize with them immensely, but still, it’s been daunting to take each proposal and plan in turn. But thankfully that’s all done for now; the throne room sits empty, the corridor outside of it vacant and quiet.

The ship’s evening cycle is upon you, and you’re more than ready to retire to your chambers. A hot meal and a warm bath would do you good, you think, along with a change of clothes. Your shoes have been pinching your feet for hours, and you’re just sick of being covered in beading and embroidery and delicate little things that you have to treat gently. Draping yourself in beautiful clothes is always such fun, but all the fussiness of it does get old after a while.

Before you can make it back to your sanctuary, however, two stormtroopers come out of nowhere and inform you that your husband wants to speak with you at once. With a raging headache and aching feet, you want nothing more than to send the both of them away, to send Kylo a com letting him know that he can come to your quarters if he wishes to tell you something, but you do none of this. If Kylo’s asking for you directly, it must be urgent, so you let the two troopers lead you through the ship, praying all the while that nothing too awful has happened.

It’s cold in the hanger bay when you and the stormtroopers arrive, icy air biting at your skin through the fabric of your sleeves and bodice. Kylo awaits you near a small craft, flanked by the other Knights of Ren. Though they bow deeply and regard you with the proper respect you deserve, you can’t tell what any of them think of you, these strange, powerful men and women who serve Kylo so loyally. Honestly, they unsettle you quite a bit, all of them faceless and expressionless behind masks and helmets, constantly armed and armor-clad. You suppose other people are afraid of Kylo for the same reasons when they first meet him, but you’re of the opinion that the other Knights are just simply less approachable, less human than he is. Perhaps if you could just see their faces…

Turning away from the stares of the Knights, you give your husband a tired smile. “What’s the matter?” you ask, bracing yourself against the chill of the hanger as goosebumps pop up all along your arms.

“I just wanted to inform you that the Knights and I will be leaving for a few days,” Kylo declares, voice robotic through the vocoder in his helmet.

A wave of sadness washes over you, heavy and completely unexpected. You try to cover it quickly though, keenly aware of your audience.

“Now?” you ask, voice rather small.

Kylo nods curtly. “Yes.”

Suddenly, you hate his mask, you hate the fact that your husband’s face is covered. You wish you could see his expression, the look in his eyes, anything that would let you know what Kylo’s thinking.

“How long will you be gone?” you ask, shivering now. It really is cold in this damn hangar, and you aren’t draped in a cloak like everybody else.

“Two to four days,” Kylo answers. The stab in your chest is inexplicable, but it pains you nonetheless.

“I see,” you say, just because you feel like you ought to speak. You cast a look towards the Knights, eyeing their weapons and protective garments, and it suddenly dawns on you that they may be armed for battle. “Where exactly are you all going?”

Kylo is in no mood to be specific, it seems, simply telling that they’ll be doing some scouting in the Minor Possessions. This feels like a lie, but you don’t call him out, unwilling to accept the fact that Kylo could be injured or killed in the very near future. You wish desperately that the two of you were alone, that you could maybe have a moment with him before he leaves. He’ll never let you show him affection, not out in the open like this in front of subordinates, so you just nod, trying to paint on a smile to the best of your ability.

“Well, I hope you all return safely.” You take a small step forward, addressing your husband directly now. “Please be safe.”

Kylo doesn’t say anything for a moment, and though you still can’t see his face, you do think his voice is a bit gentler as he goes to speak. “We’ll be back very soon,” he assures you, and your heart jumps when he reaches out to stroke your arm for the briefest moment.

You smile one more time, watching sadly as your Kylo and his Knights file onto their vessel. They blast off into space without another word, leaving you to watch as their ship becomes but a speck on the inky expanse of stars before you.

It’s an upsetting turn of events, Kylo leaving, and you feel almost childish for not wanting him to go. If he and the Knights decided to leave so promptly, whatever they’re off to do must be important. And who are you to hinder your husband’s work? He never begs you to take a day off from your obligations, nor do you think he would stop you from doing whatever you felt was necessary. But… It’s just that you’ve had a long, grueling day, and you were so looking forward to crawling into Kylo arms at the end of the night.

Thankfully, Miriam’s already waiting for you when you arrive back to your rooms. You drag your feet all the way into the ‘fresher, scrubbing at your eyes with makeup remover as your attendant works to undress you and let down your hair. After you’re changed into more comfortable clothes, you dismiss Miriam for the evening, unable and unwilling to make small talk any longer.

Eating alone is just as depressing as you thought it would be, though getting into bed is even worse. You turn in early, of course, completely drained from all you’ve done today, but you find the bed far too big and far too cold without Kylo beside you.

Tossing and turning, you lie awake until the wee hours of the morning, finally passing out after it seems your body cannot stand to be awake any longer.

---

Kylo’s absence and your foul night’s sleep does nothing for your mood the next day, and you spend much of the morning agitated and snappy. It feels as though your meeting with the Board will never end, and what’s worse, the Chairwoman seems to be in a particularly bright, almost mischievous mood today. You’re sure her cheerful demeanor stems from something that happened this morning, likely an incident that involved her spatting on a custodian or kicking a small child as she walked by. In any case, her shrill laugh and wolfish grin only serve to sour your mood, and as the meeting wears on and on, you grow more and more inclined to have Evan’s tongue cut out on site. However, she’s left you alone for the most part, so you feel as though the action would be unwarranted.

Not ten seconds after this thought crosses your mind do you find yourself reconsidering your self-restraint.

“Oh, my lady!” the Chairwoman exclaims, turning her sharp little eyes your way. Malicious intent curls out of her mouth like smoke as she speaks, you can practically feel the jab coming. “I meant to ask you— where has the Supreme Leader run off to?”

Holding back the urge sigh deeply, you regard the Chairwoman evenly, saying, “A planet in the Minor Possessions.”

You’re being very fair, you think, indulging Evan with the truth even though your husband’s location is none of her business. But she’s seemingly unsatisfied with this, and there’s a glint in her eyes that you don’t like.

“Well, you certainly are a good wife, letting him jet out like that on a whim,” Evan sighs. You’re keenly aware that all eyes are on yourself and the Chairwoman, everyone no doubt waiting to see how this volley between the two of you will play out. “I know I’d be much less inclined to let my man go if I knew that he was going to be out unattended with whores about.”

Evan’s smile is so bright, and you know it must be painful for her to set her face in such a fashion. Her comment is obviously meant to bait you, and you hate that you have to bite the hook— what she’s said is too scandalous to be ignored, and you risk letting her win if you don’t cast your own line.

“The Knights are not whores, Evan, at least to my knowledge,” you say, deadpan, though you do let a sort of wry smile play on your lips as you regard the rest of the table. “Though I don’t profess to know what they do in their free time, nor do I care.”

The quip gets most of everyone chuckling along with you, and Evan’s feathers are ruffled. She sharpens her verbal sword, trying in earnest to draw blood with her words now. “Yes, that may be true, but there are rumors that say that more than one of the Supreme Leader’s Knights of a Ren is a bit… more than just a knight in his eyes.”

If you didn’t know her, this remark might upset you, might make you worried that someone else is sharing Kylo’s bed while he’s away from you. But this is the Chairwoman, and she is nothing but a vile, spiteful woman who wants to make you squirm simply because she enjoys making people upset. She’s so threatened by you, this cruel, bejeweled woman. It’s pathetic.

You lean on the smooth black table before you, chin cradled in one hand. “Chairwoman, may I ask you something?”

“Of course, my lady,” Evan replies readily. Oh, and she thinks she’s winning, you can tell by the glint in her eyes.

“Do you ever get tired of coming up with the drivel that constantly spews out of your mouth?”

Your foe looks as if she’s been slapped, that stupid grin finally melting off of her face. She’s overstepped herself and she knows it.

“I— I was simply making conversation, Empress,” Evan says quickly, letting out a light, nervous laugh.

“No you weren’t,” you scoff, shooting daggers right into the Chairwoman’s gray eyes as you cut her down to size. “You were trying to insinuate that my husband’s abandoned me here so he can fuck someone else in peace.”

The Chairwoman flushes, sitting up straight as a pin as she goes to dispute this. “I—”

“Oh, will you shut up?” you spit, cutting her off. “All you do is fucking talk and talk and talk! Sometimes I think I should just do everyone a favor and cut your tongue out myself.”

Right about now, Evan, her little lapdogs, and even the other members of the Board all look like they’re about to soil themselves. The only person who remains cool, calm, and collected is Hux, glaring at the Chairwoman from your side as you finish your little tirade.

“But I’m not going to do that because I’m a nice person.” You break into a sarcastic, mean grin as you say this, turning Evan’s favorite expression right back on her now. “I am, however, ending this fucking meeting. My head is pounding, and I’m sick of listening to you hold court at my expense. Get your work done somewhere else and be ready to impress me tomorrow.”

Nobody moves, not even when you say that the meeting’s over. They’ve never seen you like this, threatening and aggressive. Really, you don’t take any pleasure in acting this way, but enough is fucking enough.

“Go!” you snap. “All of you!”

Everyone is up like a shot now, including the Chairwoman, fleeing from the room as if it were on fire. You remain seated, watching on with disinterest and contempt, sparing a glare to anyone who isn’t moving fast enough for your liking. Within seconds, you and the Chancellor are the only ones left in the room.

“You can tell me if that was too harsh,” you say to Hux after a moment, feeling a bit sheepish about your outburst now that it’s over with. The Chairwoman absolutely got what she deserved, but you probably shouldn’t have dismissed the Board the way you did.

Hux shakes his head. “They’re you’re subordinates,” he tells you. “You can talk to them however you like. Personally, I think it was time someone reminded them who they’re dealing with.”

That makes you feel a bit better about the whole thing, but you shoot Hux a look, teasing. “You’re my subordinate, you know.”

Your friend rolls his eyes, rising from his chair as he drawls, “Have me drawn and quartered for my insolence, if you must.”

But then the Chancellor gives you one of his reserved little grins, offering you his arm, and you can’t help but smile back.

The both of you decide that it would be nice to dine privately, so you arrange to have your lunch brought to you and Kylo’s quarters. Hux jokes that the Chairwoman will be accusing you of adultery next time she wants to toy with you, and the two of you have a good laugh about that one. Anyone who could actually believe that you and Hux are having an affair is an absolute moron.

You give Hux a little tour of your quarters while the two of you wait for your meal to arrive, letting him duck into your closet and ‘fresher to kill time. It comes as a bit of surprise to you that the Chancellor’s never visited these rooms before you and Kylo married, but you suppose he had no reason to. And in any case, you’re sure that Kylo’s always been a private person— he’s not partial to intimacy in general, and that goes double when it comes to conducting official business.

Hux is in the mood to chat, it would seem, tittering on about this and that as the two of you dig into your plates. You tell him about your abysmal night’s sleep, even going so far as to disclose that Kylo’s sudden departure upset you more than you’d like to admit. What with Hux’s usual no-nonsense demeanor, you’d been half expecting him to laugh at you for that; instead, he’s surprisingly sympathetic.

“It’s difficult to sleep without your lover,” your friend states, pushing some of his food around idly. “Some beds are just too big for one person.”

It’s only then that you notice how exhausted he looks, pale with dark circles stamped under his eyes. The vulnerability in Hux’s gaze is unmistakable when he sneaks a glance up at you, behaving as if he’s just told you something private, as if he’s made a confession. You assume that this is his very stiff, emotionally guarded version of opening up to you, and you feel rather touched that your friend has come to trust you in this way. Your first inclination is to press for details, to make Hux elaborate on what he’s just implied, but you know that he’d just clam up and refuse to speak about the matter ever again. So, you simply say that he’s right, eyeing your friend carefully as he nods and goes back to eating.

---

To say that you’re relieved as you crawl into bed that night would be an understatement. It’s been such a long day, and you want nothing more than to drift off to sleep and forget about everything for a little while. But like the Chacellor said earlier, your bed is too large and too cold without Kylo beside you, and you can’t make your thoughts stop racing. Your head is filled to the brim, images of the Chairwoman and Hux and your husband swirling together into a storm that chases sleep right out of the harbor of your mind. It’s infuriating, lying wide awake as your body screams for rest.

You find yourself tossing and turning, flinging yourself across the bed in every way possible in a vain attempt to make yourself comfortable. Still, nothing works, and after twenty minutes you’re about ready to burst into tears. The mere notion of getting another awful night’s sleep has you ready to throw a fit, and now more than ever do you wish that your husband was home holding you in his arms.

Kylo checked in with you earlier on the com, though your correspondence was quick. He told you that he and the Knights were doing fine and that the mission was going well, though he was vague on the details. You’d been reluctant to get off the line, happy to hear your husband’s voice, but then Kylo said it was time to make camp and that he had to go. Really, you would feel best if he were here with you, but hoping that he’s warm and safe will have to do for the night. Everyone is always telling you how tough Kylo is, but wish he didn’t have to be. It pains you to imagine him shivering, to think of him anticipating an attack even as he tries to rest…

Yes, you’d much rather have your husband next to you now.

Finally, after what feels like hours, your eyes grow heavy. Burrowing down under the comforter, you turn to face the pane of transperisteel on the far wall, drifting off with the stars glittering before you.

[ead13]

Kierabeth NSFW Alphabet: I

Intimacy

I = Intimacy

           Intimacy started from the first time she reached out and took his hand. There had been no physical affection shown towards him since his mammy and pappy died, nothing deep, nothing more than casual camaraderie. It was silly, but when Mary-Beth first held his hand, he felt under scrutiny. They were too rough, too dirty, and now that he was thinking about it, too clammy! Still she didn’t retract hers, she simply threaded her fingers with his and squeezed tighter. It was the first step. It promised things to come. It encouraged words he’d been too fearful to voice before, leaving him wide open.

           Then came the looking into his eyes. As self-conscious as he was about his looks, that was immensely difficult to endure at first. Meeting her gaze as she tried to peer into his eyes… She could see every flicker of emotion and doubt if he connected to her that way. This time it took coaxing, but he finally relented for a few brief seconds. Such a small thing, yet it left him breathless. Like riding a wild horse, each attempt lasted longer and longer as he grew more comfortable letting her in.

           She wanted to see more of him, and to be honest it was good that she instigated, because he might never leave his comfort zone otherwise. A kiss as she invaded his mouth, and her fingers beginning to unfasten the buttons of his shirt… Too much, too fast! Baring his body to her, with all its imperfections, that required courage. Mary-Beth pulled back the pace, revealing inch by inch and kissing it as it was exposed. Just the top half for the moment. With her eyes sweeping over his chest, that was enough.

           Finally the day came when he knew he was ready to go all the way. Though it had taken more time that most men would have required, he allowed himself to be vulnerable bit by bit, with Mary-Beth matching his pace every step of the way. She never pushed him, only took what she was given with enthusiasm and encouragement. Even now, she led by example, removing the last of her clothes and sprawling out on the blankets. Her eyes declared “All of me, for you”. But this time, he saw the flash of nerves there that matched his own.

           And he knew it would all be okay.

           He shed the last of his defenses and joined her, pushing down the fear. “For you, I’m ready.”

           At last the final barrier was crossed, and they could not possibly be any closer. They were one.

[cabanacatalogs]

Everything You Need to Understand About Butt Lifter

None of us are blessed with a booty like the Kardashian family. We need to work out, do a hundred squats, and still, the results are far from satisfactory. What if I tell you that there is an easy way through which you can easily get a shaped butt and don’t have to break a sweat? I am not talking about implants instead about a booty push-up bra or butt lifters. It appears a bit bizarre at first, but they are a must-have if you don’t have curves but wish to flaunt them.

Benefits

It Makes Your Booty Look Big

No matter how offensive Sir Mix-a-lot’s song Baby Got Back was, it still introduced to the world how desirable a big butt can look. The United States beauty standards emphasize that a girl looks captivating if she has a narrow waist and a huge butt. Butt-lifting panty shorts are ideal for lifting and enhancing your curves instantly. There have been countless times when we wear a pair of skinny jeans or dresses and immediately look at our bottom but get underwhelmed when we see nothing but our lack of curves. The problem of a small posterior can now be easily solved using quality butt lifters.

No Scope of Sagging

It is usually observed that as a woman crosses the age bracket of forty-five, her body starts to get a little saggy. Breasts and butt are usually the first victims of sagginess attacks. These things are natural but can certainly affect people’s psychology, making them feel less attractive. Without a doubt, you can seek these issues with regular exercise, but you might need to invest a lot of hours and tons of sweat to achieve the desired result. Therefore, we believe butt lifters can undeniably become simple alternatives to control sagginess and look flawless while aging up.

Effective Exercise Partner

These lifters are also used to promote weight loss and enhance a person’s health goals. They seem to portray the best results when combined with a regular workout program and a balanced diet. The shorts offer immense compression to the body and appear to redistribute the amount of fat it stores. We observed that the tight-fitting of these butt lifters draws attention towards your body posture. It straightens up your back and effectively supports your butt muscles. The testimonial reviews of people worldwide state that they are encouraged to make better health choices after wearing these inner wears.

Boosts Confidence

Wearing butt supporters is not just going to boost your booty but also your self-confidence. If you have a smaller posterior or are facing body sagginess, it somehow takes a toll on your esteem to wear tight clothes out in public. Though you should never let these body standards affect you, we still suggest that if a little butt lifting clothing thing helps boost your confidence, you shouldn’t even think twice before buying it.

Comfortable and Invisible

A never-ending myth that surrounds butt lifters is that they might look awkward under the clothes, and someone will be able to figure it out. These myths can never be facts because butt lifters are completely invisible even if you are wearing the skimpiest outfit from your collection. They are incredibly comfortable and are available in a compressive but soft fabric that secures them in one place. If you purchase an excellent quality butt lifter, you will completely forget that you are wearing one after a few minutes.

Buyers Guide

Just remember that butt lifters are observed to work only when they perfectly hug your body. We suggest that you purchase the butt lifter of perfect size, length, and finest fabric to get the desired result. Read the buyer’s guide and then buy the best butt lifter.

Size: As mentioned above, wearing a butt lifter will only showcase the benefits of optimum size. Therefore we suggest that you should measure the size of your waist, hips, and upper thighs. After that, based on the measurements, select the product that is exactly your size. Smaller size or larger size doesn’t seem to help; rather, they can be extremely uncomfortable.

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Best Choice

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Page URL: https://cabanacatalogs.com/shop/accessories/butt-lifter-panties/

What is Cabana Catalogs

Cabana Catalogs is one of the best online fashion websites worldwide. This virtual store has a wide range of the best and trendiest casual day, formal, and festivity outfits. Furthermore, the company also offers top-quality accessories, makeup products, and footwear. Cabana’s striking vision of not promoting a petite body standard; instead, commemorating all body sizes makes it distinctive from all its competitors. For protruding to our vision, Cabana catalog has launched a huge plus-size collection. Therefore, if you wish to purchase a prime quality designer collection for yourself or your loved ones, visit the official website of Cabana Catalogs.

Source:- Everything You Need to Understand About Butt Lifter

[peteandsiobhan]

Leaving Lockdown Costa Rica & Entering empty England

Corona to COVID-19 with Siobhan & Pete March/April 2020

Part 1 Costa Rica here we come

We departed for a 2-week adventure holiday to Costa Rica a few hours later than originally scheduled, in the afternoon of Saturday 14th March 2020. Heathrow airport was buzzing as usual, we had a little bottle of hand sanitiser, but no protection and no social distancing was occurring. After a boozy breakfast we giggled immaturely at the sight of a singular seemingly more paranoid passenger in full hazmat suit, looking like an extra in E.T.

We were aware at this time of Corona virus starting to take hold of Italy, lock downs in China, very few British cases and hardly any outbreaks outside of China Italy, Iran and France. At this point, news informed us to continue as normal, not travel to outbreak countries, to self-isolate for 2 weeks on return from these Countries and that the virus was flu like symptoms which can be deadly for the old and vulnerable (those with underlying health issues ranging from Cancer to Diabetes), for the young or healthy, the implication was the virus was easily beaten.    

   Slight delays to our departure across the North Atlantic Ocean were accredited to Donny Trump’s announced ban from midnight Friday 13th on EU flights entering the US (excluding the UK, thankfully), which meant merging multiple flights to Atlanta, Georgia. The delay meant we would miss our connecting flight to San Jose and would have to stay in Atlanta for a night rather than San Jose. On Announcing our arrival in Atlanta, the pilot who was rather confused and concerned, informed passengers the CDC would be boarding the plane and to stay seated. We asked the beautifully cool, smooth accented airhostess, who sat next to us cooing over the baby on the front row, what the CDC was and what was about to happen. 

‘Centre for Disease Control’. The airhostess’s little girl was in New York and soon to celebrate her first birthday, she immediately started worrying about getting quarantined, turned around, or maybe even tested. Several ridiculously huge uniformed, plastic masked men walked down the aisle, with their loaded guns, handing out paper forms for us to complete and return. The men requested everyone to go home and isolate for two weeks and check for symptoms. We were each given poorly printed leaflets, which included details of symptoms, requesting again for isolation, except for us who were wished a good onward journey. 

That weird rush of America filled all our senses, from the colour of the light, the accents, guns, and general factor 50 vibes, as we tiredly tried to find the Delta desk to figure out where to stay and next flights out of Atlanta. We were greeted by a cheerful yet stressed, smiley yet take no shit, well humoured team of middle-aged ladies, who sorted us out with free vouchers for a hotel and new flights – advising that our luggage would be transferred automatically to the new flight tomorrow. Boom! There were lots of Europeans trying to get home and rearranging flights etc, we just seemed to breeze through, after realising the call centre were really struggling and the ladies on the desk had it under control. We cancelled our night in San Jose with an extremely helpful, understanding Airbnb host, and set all the alarms after a little steak dinner at a hotel within walking distance from the airport, we were advised $50 per person per day spends on food and drink would later be reimbursed on application.

It was then we read that Atlanta was where the CDC is based (It was here that we discovered the CDC’s head quarters is based in Atlanta), and where ALL of Americas Corona tests were sent for analysis and a result. Felt like we had fallen out of a tree into a bees nest, movies like Outbreak and Contagion sprang to mind. We were keen to leave and get to our paradise. Airhostesses were wearing gloves on the next flight, headed South over the Gulf of Mexico, and kindly gave us a free bottle of red wine, after Pete explained our missed flight, happy days. We hung out with Americans at the other end in San Jose, whilst awaiting our ride to the cloud Forest in Monteverde. The Americans seemed chilled, happy to be on holiday and excited about their plans for diving, exploring, beach life and all the animals and birds. We spoke about Corona, how it may kick off in New York, where one couple lived, the bartender would be screwed if the bar closed, his veterinary wife seemed sceptical of any impact on her business. We agreed to look out for each other the following week in Manuel Antonio and casually joked about how we would be lucky to get trapped in Costa Rica, which none of us envisioned to be possible. Three cases of Corona virus in northern Costa Rica, from American tourists who were isolated and being looked after.

Part 2 Monteverde mountains and cloud forest creatures foraging

Montverde is out of this world. We were welcomed to our glass box hut tucked away in the forest by a beautiful orange puff chested brown bird and an Agouti (aka wish pig). We decided to detach from the world news, friends on WhatsApp groups and make the most of our trip. Night Safari seemed like a well-polished tourist trip, with fewer groups than usual, as tourists had begun to cancel trips or return home. We ran around in the early evening dusk, when all the animals and birds go nuts, with a charming guide, who showed us all sorts, from scorpions that glow in UV light like psy trance ravers to young 2 toed sloths climbing down their tree to take their once weekly poo on the ground. We saw a Hairy female Tarantula, Armadillos, sleeping birds, poisonous tree viper snakes, the classic red eyed frog (teeny tiny!). Best comment came from another guide, who as Pete was getting closer to a green viper snake for a wildlife picture shoot, wisely informed us that not only was the viper deadly poisonous and leaps when threatened, but this tree like all the trees and all the forest are connected and move as one.     Ziplining through the mountain tops with a group of young American tropical biologist students, and a pair of talking parrots was immense. Flying alongside large birds of prey, feeling free and pumped full of adrenalin with stunning views of such diverse bright colourful flora and fauna, was invigorating and fun as fuck. The final Tarzan swing was a jaw dropping moment of pure thrills. We went first and recorded the students screaming behind us, who were made up to have a record of their bravery. This, along with pretty much everything else closed 2 days later.

The students were getting one last adventure in before returning to the US, against their will, they had been threatened by universities with loss of credits, pulled funding and project shutdowns. We encouraged them to rebel and stay to finish their projects and studies which will no doubt help with the protection and knowledge of such wonderous places on our planet. We spent the afternoons and evenings walking and exploring the beautiful mountainside, village homes had very English like gardens with rhododendrons, there was a big artist presence and the most stunning sunsets. One on such evening sunset gazing, we were asked to sit one seat apart as part of the new Costa Rican tradition, we were confused and complied wearily, unaware the government had been issuing corona spread reduction advice. On the recommendation of our Airbnb host, handily an ex tour operator, worryingly an ex whaler, we went over to the other mountain Santa Elena, for a national park exploratory hiking day. We didn’t anticipate the accent Japanese meets hippy messages around the first hike and got fully immersed in the advice and vibes which were curing and calming. The jungle was dense, enchanting and beautiful, with birds that seemed to call back to us, mimicking our whistles, whilst others sang in harmony with each other and some calls were straight out of Star Wars. The winding paths took us high enough to see the Arenal volcano and low down in the valley streams. Something quite magical about this place, a place where the past and future faded and the present was filled with wonder, respect, admiration and appreciation of all nature has to offer.  There were very few others in the entire national park, which closed the following day.

Whilst we were blissfully unaware of the escalation and seriousness of Corona virus spreading, we started to receive messages from friends advising us to come home. We decided we were probably safer in Costa Rica than Europe, and that getting early flights back would be stressful and expensive. We found an ancient strangler tree, now hollow after 400 years of growing around its host tree, which since died and crumbled away. There were around eight or so other tourists admiring the spectacle and climbing the inner maze of its curly wurly like structure. There was talk of Panama closing its boarders, but no concerns over being in groups together, or returning to Europe early. We received an Airbnb notification to say anyone who booked our next apartment advising anyone who was booked between 17th March to 13th April must cancel their bookings. Lucky for us, Pete miss interpreted this to refer to the date the booking was made, rather than the dates booked. We responded to confirm we would arrive soon, as planned.   We left the quaint Quaker mountain town and headed to the coast to the paradise beaches of Manual Antonio, famed for surfing, excited, energised and fully relaxed. We were so grateful to our host, we gifted him with a Liverpool football shirt for his new baby daughter, for which he was delighted.   

Part 3 Surf’s up in Manuel Antonio

Tucans, spider monkeys, lizards, iguanas, wish pigs and stunning tropical sea views welcomed us to our apartment in Manuel Antonio. The pool, Jacuzzi and beautiful open areas in full bloom were guest free; the place was eerily quiet. Bonus! All this space to ourselves, bliss. 

The magnificent beach was a few minutes down the hill, past empty bars and restaurants, closed stores and shut up tourist attractions. The heat of the morning was immense, cooling off in the sea felt like pure luxury. We had all this room, all this space on what should have been a crammed tourist hot spot. We felt spoiled, privileged and elated! We planned to kick back, check out some of the surf schools in the afternoon and make some solid plans for the coming days. 

We spotted a police van on the beach on the far left in the distance, guessing a theft or accident perhaps? A large authoritarian boat and a smaller one appeared in the bay, as lifeguards began speaking to people on the beach methodically. When they reached us, they explained the government had closed not only this beach, but all beaches in the country from now and until at least June. They politely asked us to leave, to return to our hotel and to stay there. We went to the nearest bar to eat, drink and check the news. We met an English couple, who were worried too, and shocked to learn the beach had been closed. We met them later that night for dinner and bumped into them once more a few days later. They explained a car had crashed into the shop under their flat in London, destabilising the whole structure! More drama. They were weighing up their options of where to stay for lock down Britain on their return in a day or so. Yikes.

We returned to the villa to find the owner, a Canadian woman panicking, flustered, explaining she would close after we and one other couple left in few days and imposed upon us that we should check with airlines and make plans to return home. Jeez Louise, this woman was bumming us out. Our airline requested we avoid contacting them until 72 hours before our flight home, we had ages yet! Everyone seemed to leave the area, leaving even fewer tourists. Pete and I spent our time eating in empty restaurants, drinking in empty bars, enjoying the wildlife from our veranda and floating on the inflatable donut in the pool, and admiring the stunning sunsets, trying to snap the sun melting into the sea and playing Yahtzee. This must be what famous people experience, in terms of closed only to them restaurants and bars.

Lucky for us we bonded instantly with an old American man who was leaving to stay with a friend nearby to see this thing out, rather than risk returning stateside. He was fascinated with us, as he grew up in the UK and even had a Bristolian connection somehow.  As he departed, he smoothly passed Pete a bag of mighty fine weed, asking subtly if its something we would enjoy, explaining he couldn’t take it where he was going. All felt a bit James Bond, what a dude! Score. As we explored Manuel Antonio, and admired the beach from afar, admired the water sports and adventures no longer available, we vowed that one day we would return.

We nervously checked with our third and final, destination in Uvita, our most luxurious booking of the holiday, of the check in times. The response was slow but came back positively, thankfully. By this point everywhere was closed and we were one of two couples left. 

The Uber driver turned up and instantly cancelled our booking, issuing us a refund, then agreeing to take us, cash in hand, outside of the Uber app. It was a long drive, with a roadblock police check point on route.  

Part 4 Toucan time, UVITA!

Wow! This place is insane. Nestled on a mountain side with sea view, sprawling tropical plants and trees decorate and frame each glance in every direction. The heat enveloped us from head to toe as the diverse jazz orchestra sounds of the jungle reverberated, bouncing energetically and harmoniously, waking all our senses. The open-air restaurant framed with curvy interwoven majestic strangler trees, led to small, yet dramatic infinity pool on a cliff edge. There were far more staff than tourists, we were one of 4 couples soon to be 3. Exhausted and relived, we were led to our stilted jungle bungalow. MADE IT. LUXURY.

[xmelodiious-archive]

( So I just hit 600 followers and this couldn’t have come at a more ironic time, it actually feels quite bittersweet because I’m abandoning this blog.. I love Rosa but truth is, if I stay here I’m going to lose her forever so I’m sorry to keep moving blogs but for those still interested in my baby girl, she will now be moved to XPURIITY — I just thought before I leave, why not hit two birds with one stone (ps. Rosa hates this proverb so much) and show some appreciation to the ones who stuck around with me for this long  )

art credit

                                                            ´*•.¸(*•.¸♥¸.•*´)¸.•*´

                ♥«´¨`•°.. ησтнιηg уσυ cσηƒєѕѕ cσυℓ∂ мαкє мє ℓσνє уσυ ℓєѕѕ ..°•´¨`»♥              ( the treasure I’d carry over fire and water because I know they’d do the same )

 @a-s-ced​

My partner in crime, my best friend, my soul mate, my star ♡ where do I even begin with you and how in the world could I possibly keep this short? I think I’ll start at the very beginning, before I even knew you, I always hoped you would someday become someone special to me, they say soulmates’ hearts resonate at the same frequency and I suppose in my heart I just knew.. and now that you did become the most special, it’s hard to imagine a life when you weren’t. You are the calm to my panic, the joy to my laughter and are the most selfless person I’ve ever known and I would know because that kind heart of yours is something I get to experience firsthand before anyone else and it has never failed to protect me. I heard in a tv show once that if we’re lucky we get to have one extraordinary relationship in our life and I think, despite the world placing us seven thousand miles apart, right now our friendship is that extraordinary relationship for me. You showed me what it’s like to just think of someone and smile stupidly to myself — and every single day I’m forever thankful for the blessing that is you. You continue to inspire me every single day with your art, with your writing, with our plots and with just you being you, the bravest amazing star that dared explore the darkest depths of my heart then chose to make a home there. I love you to the moon and back, bubbles ♡ 

@inkvascular​ / @lovguks​

My little sister who needs a smack on the head for abandoning my precious Valerie, like how dare? But that aside, I don’t think anyone is ever as patient with me as you are, and not just because you are stuck with me without a choice, which you are, but that is besides the point, you have always seen me through all the good and the bad, cheering me on, encouraging me, pulling me out of that bubble of darkness I trap myself in, sometimes against my own free will at that too but you do it anyway. You are one of the most caring people I’ve met and you will find that hard to believe and maybe even shocking to hear but it’s true, I do think so, your worry is always so genuine and evident and maybe some times I want to kill you but mostly I love you and that precious rebellious heart of yours. 

@xviridiis​ / @fangirl-is-my-middle-name​

My twinny™ from another mother — or so we say yet I find it hard to believe someone as kindhearted and sweet as you would be my twin, but I also couldn’t for the life of me accept an alternate where you’re not my twin because you see, you have legit become just like a little sister to me, one I cherish and worry for so much. From the very beginning you’ve been one of my biggest supporters and then here we are, 3 or 2 years later? and you’re still as sweet as ever, as sweet as sugar. I find comfort in having you by my side and knowing you always have my back just like I always have yours. You bottle and deal with so much and still remain kind and I just wish sometimes you’d share all that weight off your shoulder simply because I love you so freaking much twinny.

@alabasti​

We always talk about how natural Vivi and Rosa’s friendship developed, like it just happened as if it was always meant to be despite how unexpected the connection had been — and I think what we don’t mention is that just like them, our friendship is just the same, to me it was swift, natural, and before I knew it you had easily become one of the most important people to me and I couldn’t word how thankful I am that it did happen.  It’s not often that I find people I can connect with or relate to and yet despite how shy we both were the connection we have is very special, and I love how we went from that to being casually able to talk about so many things. I love you ray ray and I love how our friendship continues to grow. You say you relate to Rosa and it doesn’t surprise me, because you are one of the kindest sweetest people I know.

@scarlethaki​

If I were to start speaking about how much I admire you and your OCs, I’d never shut up but I’m going to try anyway. I love how much like Akane, you are never afraid to speak the truth and stand up for what’s right, it’s very admirable tbh esp when you are very mature about it as well. It’s something I realized is quite rare to find, someone who can speak their mind without being all self entitled and it’s one of the many reasons I continue to develop huge respect for you. I’ve always loved how quickly our OCs bonded to form a sisterhood I never could have foreseen or expected and it remains one of my favorite relationships ever for Rosa but I also love how close we’ve become through the years too. You are one of the few I trust immensely and know I can count on, and I hope you can feel the same ♡ 

@gratixsa​

You always talk about how I and Rosa inspired you but how about I talk about my version of events instead, truth is when I first stumbled upon your blog I was in utter and complete awe. More often than not, when any devil fruit with mind reading abilities is given it ends up being beyond over powered but as soon as I read Sahar’s bio I could see all the development and thought put into it, all the flaws and strengths, and since then I’ve only ever watched you both grow. You were unbelievably sweet to me from the day you first joined the fandom and I can’t believe it’s only ever been a year with you around bc it’s a bit hard to remember what it even was like before you were here. You are so kind and funny and to hell with anyone who thinks you’re toxic bc I love you and I’m so lucky to have a friend like you ♡ 

@lavenderkitsune​

I know your’re not really active roleplay wise anymore which is quite a shame because I do miss seeing you around, even if just in the Haikyuu fandom or with small one-liners and teasing crack, I loved the older brother sorta relationship both Law and Kuroo had with Rosa as they teased her and all — not to mention you, yourself remain one of the closest friends I’ve ever made on this site. We don’t talk as much as we used to and I guess it’s simply to say life got in the way but you remain one of the most understanding and least judgmental friends I’ve ever know. Always understanding what I’m trying to say, relating to my feelings without much needed explanation — I miss all our chats and hanging out together and forever love you, Kit Kat ♡  

@xviipcra

Ellie Ellieee Elieeeeeeee ♡ Now I know we don’t talk much, well hardly at all outside of group chats but I’ve always been a believer that true friendship isn’t about how little or much you talk to someone, because reality remains every single time I’ve needed back up (for lack of better word) you have never failed to be there by my side and support me, even against all odds and that believing in me is something I appreciate beyond all words. Never doubt that I will always be there for you too, when all hell breaks loose or when you need a friend, I’ve got your back. I admire your creativity and I admire how devoted you are to said creations, with research and writing, and well, rambling aside, I love you a lot, you dork <3

@eviscxration

Much like Ellie, we don’t talk as much as I’d like yet you, Kari, are honestly one of the most trust worthy friends I’m grateful to have — You are so geniune and kind and when we speak it’s so easy to tell how pure your intentions are and I can’t emphasize how much I adore that about you. Since we got closer you would always go out of your way to make me smile, and all I can say is thank you and I sure hope to someday be able to return that favor bc trust me you deserve all the smiles and happiness in the world.

@waywardpirateprince​

Whether it’s late night ramblings or random chatting or whatever it is we find to talk about and whether we go days or months without speaking only to reconnect later again— there’s absolutely never a dull moment with you around and I can’t emphasize enough how much I love your randomness. Honestly, I’m not much of a speaker and I know that yet I’m always honored when you chose to come to me to talk about the most random of stuff, like it makes me unbelivably happy that you would choose that when there are probably many other better listeners out there but needless to say, your friendship is one I appreciate immensely and I can’t wait for the day I can proudly boast about how I had been one of the first blessed with snippets of your novel when it’s released and becomes a best seller, which it will. 

@devilslcg

Ariel Bear ♡ ♡ I have always had a huge immense respect for you and initially I will admit that had mostly to do with your writing and how you portray your character with depth and gentleness but eventually and thankfully, I got to see a glimpse at the real person behind the muse and I got to be your friend and while I still adore and admire your writing, I also have huge respect for you. You are honestly so so so so unbelievably kind and understanding, no matter what is going on, you try to see both sides of the story and never invalidate anyone’s feelings. You have a sweet heart that never wants anyone to hurt or fight and I love that softness about you bc it’s quite rare to find. 

@rubberbastard​

We were both such kids when we first met, I was still a teen back then and I would think roleplay blogs are those unreachable blogs who are too popular to speak to their followers but I took a chance and I spoke to you and you were the sweetest person ever, and you became my first tumblr friend ever too as well as my first rp partner and fast forward 4 years later and our friendship is still as strong. Honestly when I look at how far we’ve come, I can’t help but feel proud? not just for our bond but more specifically of you — you’ve come such a long way and just like you were the first to cheer me on, I will always cheer you on too, our little fighting champ, it’s so nice to see you back ♡ 

@galvxnized

Just like Kayla, you were one of the very first friends I ever made, back when you had precious Ann and Lu? I was so thrilled that you would accept Rosa as a whitebeard pirate back then and agree to rp with me, you were so kind and supportive of me and my art and I was in awe of how you would draw out some of your replies. We don’t talk as much as we did back then but I still love you immensely and am glad to call you my friend because you’re so generous and adorable and I can never forget all you have done to support me all this time. 

@saboners

Cherry Berry ♡ I think sweet is an understatement when speaking about you because honestly, I know you might not think it’s always a good thing but your caring heart is a true gift and that care you give everyone else, the way you hurt to see others hurt as well, you deserve as much care and love of it and tenfold tbh. I may not have much to say but I do tend to worry about you and how you’re doing so it makes me happy when you’re around and having fun, I love you and love seeing you around even if we dont necessarily interact; thank you for being here for me every now and then ♡ 

@blacklegchef / @strawhat-sanji 

Now I know you haven’t been around for a while and I know it’s hard for you to be on here much but no matter how long it takes, you and your muse will always be more than just welcome and adored here. You were there for me at times when I was at my lowest and are just unbelievably so gentle ands sweet — I suppose you’re much like your muse in that manner. It seems like a lifetime ago but I still recall how you and a few others’ writing here would push me to try so hard and improve my own and I miss all our interactions both ic and ooc but just like you always reminded me to take care of myself first, I hope you would do just that. Take care of yourself and remember there are people here who will always love you. 

@macabrebride

The queen of fluff herself, ladies and gentlemen — now we all know how lovable Bride is but you Brit are honestly one of the most lovable people ever. I know how awkward and distance-ish I can be at times yet you’re always so patient and sweet and loving and it’s just downright adorable to listen to you talk and plot with you, it always gives me a good smile. You were honestly probably the first OC blog I ever interacted with and tbh before making Rosa, I went hunting for One Piece OCs to make sure any even existed on tumblr and I found yours and all the art of Bride, and I don’t think I ever mentioned it before but it gave me that final push I needed to go through with making my baby girl so thank you for that, and thank you for always being a squishable lovable sweetheart, skitty (yes I haven’t forgotten that this was my nickname for you)  ♡ ♡ 

@rxse-aurum 

I suppose you weren’t expecting this, because it’s probably been almost a year since we really spoke but truth is that doesn’t really change much for me or how I still tell people not to call me senpai because I like to think you’re still my kouhai — it’s so sweet to see you on again, like things are finally getting back to normal in the fandom and I know we have a lot of catching up to do but god I missed you, you dork and I missed your humor and your always ready to fight fiery personality. Sorry it took me a while to reach out again ♡

                                                            ´*•.¸(*•.¸♥¸.•*´)¸.•*´

               ♥«´¨`•°.. ǀ ωιℓℓ нσℓ∂ уσυ cℓσѕєя, нσρє уσυя нєαят ιѕ ѕтяσηg єησυgн ..°•´¨`»♥       ( the friends / writers I appreciate, admire and respect regardless of how often we may speak )

@partinglass / @emeraldowl ♪ @shadcwhaunted ♪ @condemnedbysunset ♪ @returningrevolutionary ♪ @shatteredfang ♪ @not-a-rogue  ♪ @trafalgardwaterlami ♪ @conquiistador ♪ @kxyx-ojo-sxmx ♪ @cinderbled ♪ @dcflamingc ♪ @stxrlightkiss ♪ @unsurpassed ♪ @redeyetrio ♪ @waveringiridescence ♪ @themostfreedom ♪ @shipvvright  ♪ @heavenly-demon  ♪ @elusvepirate ♪ @flamingmarco ♪ @mediicusvitae ♪ @windsplit

                                                            ´*•.¸(*•.¸♥¸.•*´)¸.•*´

               ♥«´¨`•°.. ǀ кησω уσυ ωєяє σηℓу нι∂ιηg αη∂ ǀ נυѕт ωαηηα ѕєє уα ..°•´¨`»♥        ( the followers whose presence / writing I enjoy or who have been a great support to me )

@bxttcrfly ♪ @ageless-gluttony ♪ @outjinxed ♪ @protettore ♪ @waniyarou ♪ @dokutadesu @boneavant ♪ @pxpeofjustxce ♪ @mxsicxm ♪ @blucdwarf ♪ @beastyhound ♪ @kaitouxx ♪ @itaidoshin ♪ @ask-the-three-eyes ♪ @gracephilosopher ♪ @moouda ♪ @1chijirexu ♪ @poisonxero ♪ @wittyneko ♪ @blood-batx ♪ @redcni ♪ @shibanomi ♪ @chillin-at-partys-bar ♪ @doxflamingo ♪ @cxrrot ♪ @cxmbrioleur

( I hope I didn’t forget anyone, but if someone isn’t mentioned, it’s likely bc of the following reasons a) I thought the blog was a duplicate of the same mun b) I thought the person was inactive and thus would never see this orz c ) I am dumb and forgetful and I’m very deeply sorry — Thank you all so much and have a nice day / night / afternoon )

[housebeleren]

Core Set 2020 New Commanders

Alright alright alright, it’s time again for a new set. Now that Core Set 2020 previews are officially done, it’s time to start evaluating cards for that very, very best of formats: Commander. I’ll run through the new Legendary creatures first, and see what looks like fun to build around. 

With that in mind, I just want to say that this core set has knocked it out of the park on the EDH front. Seriously. There are so many goodies in this set for us. It’s clear they had some Commander fans in the design team, and for that I am thankful. With that, let’s get to it.

I could’ve started anywhere, so why not start here? Apparently Wizards has figured out that people like foil Legendary Creatures & Planeswalkers, and that by putting them as buy-a-box promos, people will buy boxes. Smart cookies.

As for Rienne, she’s pretty sweet. People have been asking for more variety on Angel commanders, and Naya angels is one of the ones that was missing. Her ability is pretty frickin cool, and will encourage some specific deckbuilding choices, which I am very much for. She’s definitely casual, but could end up being surprisingly effective too. Cards you’ll definitely want for her are Saffi Eriksdotter, Qasali Pridemage, and any other multicolored creatures you can sac for value. Also, she could be great friends with Brion Stoutarm, if that sort of thing interests you.

Now, on to the actual in-set cards. Just look at this beauty. Daarken is a master at illustrating creepy crawlies, as this piece fabulously demonstrates.

As if the art weren’t cool enough, Yarok is likely the best new commander in the set. Panharmonicon is a format staple, and having one in your command zone is epic. Not only is Yarok a Panharmonicon, he also triggers off of Enchantments & Lands. Landfall triggers get doubled! Constellation triggers get doubled! The potential value is immense, and I think there are probably dozens of viable builds for this... guy? 

Yeah, we’ll go with that.

I’m sensing some flack out there about my old buddy Omnath, and I’m here to tell you that I won’t stand for it! Sure, he’s not inherently busted like Yarok, and Horde of Notions as a thing that is also Elemental tribal but with access to all colors. But no, I actually really like the design of new Omnath, Who Somewhere Acquired Blue in his Adventures. 

This, like previous versions of Omnath, is still a base Green deck as you’ll want plenty of access to ramp. But adding Blue gives you some nice perks, such as being able to run Mulldrifter and Master of Waves, which not only makes a bunch of bodies for Omnath’s first ability, but also is a lord for a tribe that really doesn’t have many of those. Tempt With Vengeance looks a lot better when all your Elementals are bigger than everyone else’s. Also, Blue opens up the possibility of running Deadeye Navigator (not an Elemental), which plays nicely with a pile of mana and Omnath’s first ability. All told, I like him, and I think he’ll be a casual favorite from the set.

I love this design. It’s very Jeskai while still being something I haven’t exactly seen before. Kykar wants to be a spellslinger, and there is no doubt about that. She (I’m totally guessing here, so apologies if I got it wrong) plays sort of like a twist on The Locust God, only... without as easily abusable of a trigger, no self-recursion, and no... mandibles? BUT, you do get access to White mana (good for wraths & powerful removal) and a mana ramping ability to keep the cards flowing. And let’s be real, you’re going to play ol’ Bugeyes in this deck too. Also Skullclamp, because you’re not going to turn down that shit, are you?

In the end, I suspect Locust God is probably more competitive, but I would be surprised if Kykar didn’t have some fans that prefer her. Oh! And there’s Bird tribal, so that’s a thing if you’re a masochist.

As I mentioned in a previous post, the trouble with Kaalia is really herself. Her old card, Kaalia of the Vast, somewhat overshadows this new “fixed” version. And ultimately, they make basically the same deck. Sure, in this version, you might aim for a little lower CMC on average, since you can’t cheat things out as easily, and you’re also probably not going to dedicate so many slots to giving her Haste & generating extra combats. But besides that, the decks will be the same. So, maybe 80% identical? But honestly, probably the best use for new Kaalia is in the 99 of the build of old Kaalia to help replenish her hand (which was a problem sometimes, trust me, I know from experience).

Cute card, and honestly I kinda prefer this design for being less degenerate than her first incarnation, but I doubt she’ll get much play outside of OG Kaalia’s 99.

I don’t know who wanted this card, but whoever you are...here it is. (Seriously, was anyone clamoring for Abzan Legends?) 

Mostly, my suspicion is that a Kethis deck will work something like a Karador, Ghost Chieftain deck, but with a greater emphasis on Legendaries. That said, I can’t shake the feeling that there’s some sort of bizarre combo in here. Paradox Engine and the newer Moxen are Legendary, and there are a bunch of Legendary creatures that tap for mana, such as Rishkar, Marwyn, and (of course) Rofellos. It shouldn’t be hard with some self-milling and a couple quick tutors to assemble a Paradox Engine fueled untappy-fest of awfulness from your graveyard.

To what end? I have no idea.

Two things. First, I “generally” hate 5 color generals. (Apologies for that one.) Second, I love this one. I think Golos may be my favorite new Commander from the set, and the one I’m the most likely to build. What I like about him is that he doesn’t fall into the trap that so many 5 color generals fall into, which is the trap of just being generally superior to other options. Why would you run any Warrior tribal other than Najeela? For that matter, why use the existing options for any tribe when Morophon is a thing? Like Legendary things? Who doesn’t? But why would you ever build a Kethis, the Hidden Hand deck when Sisay just does it better? No need for creativity anymore, Wizards has taken all restrictions away so you can fill any deck with the best every color has to offer.

Sorry, should’ve warned about the rant. So what I’m saying is, I love Golos because he is NOT that. There are better options out there, so if you’re going to build a Golos deck, you’re going to do it because something about this weird little golem speaks to you. Yes, I’m aware that there are likely plenty of ways to break this. Yes, I’m aware most of those ways involve Paraox Engine (quelle suprise). But mostly, he looks fun. He goes around finding lands, and then uses those lands to make some random shit happen. I like.

Okay, we’re done with the multicolor Legends, now it’s time for the apparently obligatory monocolor Cycle. First things first: who the hell named this card? Drakuseth? What, was Dragobob not quite good enough? I don’t think I’ll be able to say this card’s name without rolling my eyes. It’s like a bad 90s shareware fantasy RPG character name.

In any case, Wyverjohn, Mouth of Burns is as ineffective at doing anything as his name implies. He’s big, he’s dumb, and he’s not worth including in any of your decks. Sorry Drakaphil.

Well, this one is named slightly better. (In the same way that getting kicked in the face is slightly better than getting punched in the dick.) But the real good news is that as a Commander potential, he’s waaaaaay better. Yes, Hydras are a massively derpy tribe, so we’re just going to keep that as a given. 

But he’s an enormous 8/7 for 6 mana, can attack and block well, and he helps ramp out your other Hydras. Not only that, but he offers some level of protection against spot removal, since he’ll eat something else off the board any time one of your creatures gets targeted. Honestly, this might be the best Hydra tribal commander we’ve ever seen. That’s not saying much, but it is saying something. And if for some reason you’ve decided to build a different hydra general (for... reasons?), he’ll go in the 99 for sure. 

Okay, Miss Sephara here isn’t half bad. She’s crazy expensive for 7 mana, but she’s huge, and granting Indestructible to a whole pile of other Angels is no small thing. But the real fire is casting her for her alternate cost. Tapping 4 creatures with flying isn’t nothing, but there are plenty of decks that can make that happen fairly easily with Spirit or Bird tokens or some other such nonsense. 

Honestly, I think the place she’ll see play is in Angel tribal decks, where she offers some additional Avacyn redundancy to protect your flight. I’ll probably find her a spot in my Angel deck once the set comes out.

Atemsis is a weird design, but pretty damn cute design too. Let’s just say, casting her for 6 and then trying to loot your way to her win con one card at a time probably isn’t going to get you anywhere. No, what you’ll want to do here is draw your entire deck or some ungodly amount of cards, at which point you should easily have 6 different CMCs present. Then, all you have to do is deal some damage to your opponents. Attacking is so... uncertain. I’d rather find a way to have Atemsis deal damage safely from my side of the board, thank you very much. There are some janky equipments out there that can have her tap to deal damage, plus Livewire Lash, which only requires that she be targeted by something. In any case, I think there is a build in here somewhere, and she’ll also do fine as an inclusion in Sphinx tribal decks as well. Or other random decks that are just looking for weird alternate win conditions. That too.

Again with the names. Vilis sounds so much like Phyllis, so every time i read this card I can’t help but think that this demon is a trans great-aunt of some sort. So that’s a thing. Well, when evaluating this card, there’s an obvious comparison that has to be made. Razaketh, the Foulblooded is also an 8/8 Demon for 8 mana that has a card advantage ability. Vilis has the leg up of coming with built-in removal, as well as naturally synergizing with tons of other Black cards that will incidentally also cause you to draw cards. Plus, he naturally deters attackers because every point of damage taken will cause you to draw more gas. However, Razaketh is a repeatable tutor on a stick, provided you have enough bodies to chuck at him. And at the end of the day, why are you drawing a mess of cards if not to get to the specific ones you need to win? 

So, my hunch is that Razaketh will remain the more competitive option, but Vilis may very well be the more “fun” of the two. And in decks that can handle the mana, there’s no reason you can’t run both. I’m considering adding Vilis to my Rakdos, the Showstopper deck as another Demon & source of card advantage. (Also, I don’t have unlimited copies of Razaketh, so Vilis may do in a pinch.) All told, I think there’s space in EDH for both of them.

Oh, just whatever you do, don’t bring this guy out against a Nekusar player. K?

So that’s it. All the new Legendary creatures from Core Set 2020. Honestly, despite my griping, this is a really solid crop of Commanders, and I think nearly all of them have homes in EDH somewhere. (Drakuseth excluded. He knows what he did.)

[panoramicdiary]

Rap is Crap

For many within the conservative movement, rap is a uniformly negative reflection of the worst ills and excesses of society. It romanticizing everything wrong with the way society is headed, and the more hard-lined who hold this view believe it isn’t even music in the first place. This line of reasoning is frequently and most notably echoed by the leading figure of the conservative movement, Ben Shapiro.

Shapiro has commented on rap on a number of occasions, but he published an article that neatly summarizes his position on this cultural force. Titled ‘Rap is Crap,’ it’s a phrase every conservative who reflexively mocks rap has at one point thoughtlessly sputtered. It’s thoughtless not because there aren’t respectable reasons to simply not like rap; people dislike whole genres undeniably often, after all. Think of the common statement “I love all music except country”. But disliking a form of music is much different than claiming that opinion is an absolute. In his piece, Shapiro holds up T.I. as a representative model of rap as a whole, but he’s also prone to purposely misinterpreting rap. His analysis of Cardi B’s music video for Bodak Yellow comes to mind. Throughout, he’s confused. He mocks the ungrammatical nature of her lyrics, and he thinks that her being in a desert is some sort of political statement on gender equality in Saudi Arabia rather than a randomly exotic backdrop for her music. These throw into doubt the sincerity of Shapiro’s “takedown.” Is he genuinely convinced that people are reading into this music video that Cardi B is holding up Saudi Arabia as a beacon of gender equality? And though some interpret her song as a statement on feminism, it’s doubtful that the artist herself had thought that much into it. In one breath, Shapiro scoffs at the seeming thoughtlessness of this kind of rap, and in another, he assigns political motivations where convenient. His confusion doesn’t end with Cardi B’s sand dunes.

He pushes on, in reaction to another popular track, so very confused by Future’s “where ya ass was at?”, well, in keeping with his rigid attention to grammar. You begin to wonder whether he’s actually unable to translate Future’s question into plain English. Shapiro likely knows what he means, but he’s criticizing it for being ungrammatical. That hardline way of thinking ignores that much of art eschews strict adherence to rules, grammar, and reality under creative license. The meaning, in spite of the lyrics’ lack of grammar, remains intact. Future is conveying something that, at its core, isn’t essentially unconservative. He’s asking the question of where those near to him now were when he was working his way up the ladder, harkening to the fact that his success had to be earned by him alone. There are many ways to convey this sentiment, but isn’t it more important that such messages get across in the first place?

Language is a tool, not an end unto itself. After all, it’s doubtful that a single, basically intelligent person is going to start ending their questions with prepositions and tossing in “your asses” just because a rapper did. At the same time, one can encourage young people to master the English language, while enjoying rap as a simple form of exaggerated entertainment. And it would be equally silly to mock or act confused while listening to Jamaican dancehall artists when they say “tings” instead of things. His tendency to overthink rap and inject political motives that usually aren’t there blinds him to properly addressing both rap’s flaws and its merits. Say what you will about rap or any other genre for that matter, but if you approach it with the mentality that it’s bad in every way imaginable, it’s no surprise when you’re unwilling to be receptive to it in every way. Applying a political lens to everything is harmful, whether that comes from the feminist or racially tinged corners of the radical left or the right. It’s perfectly fair to dislike most of a genre, but it is essential to understand its appeal from a politically neutral standpoint.

Shapiro’s “Rap is Crap” article followed rapper T.I.’s arrest for illegally owning a variety of guns and suppressors. But the gravest sin on the part of T.I. isn’t his criminal extracurricular activities, but instead the substance of his music. That is the crux of the conservative mindset on rap. The typical conservative thinking goes, not only are its performers frequently delinquent, but they champion that style of living in their music. And while it is accurate to say that the most popular contemporary artists today fall into that camp, it fails to account for what drives general interest in this form of music. It isn’t motivated by a sincere desire to plunge into absurd volumes of strange women, hit some liqs, or wear gold chains that stretch down as far as their sagging jeans. This is especially not the motivation for the vast majority of the public who listen to this music casually. Given that it dependably tops the charts, if that were the case we would be seeing pandemic bloodshed on the streets and uncontrollable domestic abuse (not to mention STDs galore). Clearly, there is an unignorable entertainment factor that accounts for its eminent popularity, and it’s the same one that undergirds the scenes and plots from violent video games and ridiculous movies. It can almost be seen as absurd self-satire; for instance, when you see rappers talking about having as many bitches on their dicks as they claim they do. It’s hard to believe conservatives are genuinely convinced this reflects any semblance of reality. In fact, artists themselves acknowledge what they say in their records is often grossly exaggerated or ridiculous.

Raps many and reoccurring feuds, for example, mirror performances like the WWE, which doesn’t exactly market itself as fake, but is scripted for the audience’s entertainment. Like WWE superstars, rappers love to ignite them and flex for the sake of driving public interest, streams, and sales. And most of their fans know it and the 10-year-olds that don’t inevitably find out that it’s all for the show. The act of overthinking the ridiculous lyrics found in the newest trap banger would be as silly as condemning Dumb & Dumber for romanticizing stupidity or the WWE for romanticizing unrepentant violence. The WWE itself, for that matter, often found itself the target of such criticism. It similarly faced backlash for negatively influencing youth, as if the WWE painted this violence as something worthy of imitation. Unfortunately for such critics, we’ll see these elements of human nature play out in virtually every medium of entertainment because it’s just that: a piece of human nature. For these reasons, conservatives miss quite a bit when they point to the foolish actions of someone like T.I. and suggest that this is the impression any sane listener will come away with. But not all conservatives think that the music of T.I. and others are going to have some sweeping impact on the culture, but rather that it will impact vulnerable minority communities.

Liam Julian of National Review, for example, writes “Hip-hop does not, for instance, play a big role in the lives of most affluent kids, who may just listen to rap while traveling to and from school, or at weekend parties, or while playing sports. This group of young Americans does not see the truth in hip-hop’s messages nor strive to emulate its “lifestyle” … Sadly, the same cannot be said of lots of poor, black kids. For these young Americans, hip-hop’s lyrics are too often real reflections of life; too often they come to embody goals and aspirations. The public, to its immense discredit, is less honest than it should be about rap’s pernicious influence. ”But even accepting that this is true, does the problem lie with the medium or the culture itself? After all, when someone falls prey to video game addiction, is the fault with the video game developers or the addict himself? On those grounds, you would make the same and largely discredited case that the Nicholas Cruz's of the world will be inspired by the violent imagery in video games to carry out their deadly, vengeance-fueled acts. You can hardly blame the industry as a whole when people attempt to act out whatever form of entertainment they’re consuming in extreme ways even while the overwhelming majority of others are able to do so and go about their lives happily and healthily.

More pressingly, if you do, what is the solution? The only apparent one is to demonize a type of entertainment that is otherwise enjoyed by the bulk of people for not only innocent but lighthearted reasons. Critics of rap like Liam Julian of National Review are also mistaken to claim that the genre one dimensionally glorifies a lifestyle of degeneracy and violence. Even the artist he cites, T.I., in one of his most successful tracks ever, Dead and Gone, speaks of this “lifestyle” in dark and decidedly unromantic terms: “Never mind that now, you lucky to be alive, Just think it all started you, fussin' with three guys Now ya pride in the way, but ya pride is the way you Could fuck around, get shot die any day Niggas die, every day all over Bull shit No more stress, now I'm straight, Now I get it now I take time to think, Before I make mistakes, just for my family's sake That part of me left yesterday, the heart of me is strong today No regrets I'm blessed to say, the old me dead and gone away.”

In the same way, the ideas that rap simply glorifies misogyny also reveals a lack of familiarity with even the genre’s most popular tracks. Take for instance the chart-topping “Violent Crimes” off of Kanye West’s newest album: “ye”. “Niggas is savage, niggas is monsters, Niggas is pimps, niggas is players' Til niggas have daughters, now they precautious, Father forgive me, I'm scared of the karma 'Cause now I see women as somethin' to nurture Not somethin' to conquer I pray your body's draped more like mine and not like your mommy's Just bein' salty, but niggas is nuts And I am a nigga, I know what they want.” Moving beyond the fact that rap is not nearly as thoughtless or decadent as its critics believe, by focusing solely on the excesses of rap, they miss a key part of rap’s role in the culture. There is a much more potent strain that celebrates self-determination and grit. Where virtually every other industry of mainstream entertainment and media has cloaked itself in contempt for our capitalist system, the overwhelming majority of rappers celebrate their hard-won successes. In doing so, they offer a message of inspiration to those who otherwise would only hear that their lack of success is because they’re being denied something by an oppressive other.

This is the only cultural force that serves as a rare voice of optimism in an increasingly pessimistic world. It, unlike any other, champions the virtue of self-earned success. Take A$AP Rocky’s Lord Pretty: “Flacko Jodye 2 I ain't never lookin' for no handouts Broke ass niggas never helpin' but they hands out.” Or Joey BadA$$’s Devastated: “At times I thought we'd never make it But now we on our way to greatness And all that ever took was patience I-I-I-I used to feel so devastated At times I thought we'd never make it, yeah But now we on our way to greatness And all that ever took was patience Okay, just getting better each day Stacking that cheddar, cheesecake Looking up to the Lord, we pray Trying to be my best each day Until I'm laid to rest we lay, yeah 'Til the time being we lit Hoping I don't let it get all in my head I don't need money just to say that I'm rich.” Or even Drake’s Scholarship: “I wake up, pray every morning These demons, they callin' my soul I said fuck all of you hoes I'm ballin' outta control I'm ballin' outta control If I can give everything back to you All this passion I got, all I ever needed For me to move on and succeed For me to move on and succeed Jealousy, envy, and greed Too much of that shit I don't need it.”

Naturally, conservatives look at the largely leftist politics of rap artists and think that that must be entirely what the philosophy beneath their lyrics is saying. When in fact, even the most vocal leftists, such as the now-infamous Eminem, have passionately expressed important conservative values--weird as it may sound. A solid example would be this line from his track Beautiful: “Nobody asked for life to deal us With these bullshit hands we're dealt We gotta take these cards ourselves And flip 'em, don't expect no help Now, I could've either just sat on my ass And pissed and moaned Or take this situation in which I'm placed in And get up and get my own.” In another track, legendary Southern rapper Gucci Mane represents the seemingly ignored strain of rap that reflects a deep ability to identify faults and fix them. A message that is much needed within the communities Liam Julian is worried about. “Sometimes I think about my past, it make me start tripping I was gifted with a talent that was God-given But I was so hard-headed I would not listen Sometimes I sit and I reflect about that cold prison And doin' pull-ups with a nigga got a life sentence They gave my nigga Grant life, he only gained on me Five years later, how we in the same room? You go to jail, that's when you see who really love you I don't think nobody love me like my auntie Jean do But I forgive, I been forgiven, I hold grudges too I'm just a work in progress, I'm not even through But I forgive, I been forgiven, I hold grudges too I'm just a work in progress, I'm not even through.” This is to say that not only can rap be defended against its negative criticisms, but it can be defended on positive grounds as well.

Crudeness doesn’t negate meaning or value, and oftentimes it doesn’t end there. Misleadingly, it can seem as though rap is one-dimensionally celebrating sexual hedonism and violence that conservatives are right to detest. But all isn’t as it appears. If you looked at Kanye West’s “Power” unthinkingly, for example, you could be excused for coming away with the impression that it’s merely an anthem for reckless indulgence. What this piece really explores is a much more sober, and self-conflicted take on the perils of power. This is why the Sword of Damocles lingers over Kanye’s head in its music video, even though models and precious metals surround him. West compacts a wide array of artistic and even philosophical meaning in what amounts to a supremely thoughtful piece of music. West’s video and lyrics are inspired by Roman Philosopher Cicero’s meditation on Damocles to illustrate how captivating grand wealth and power might seem on the surface, but how often forgotten is the responsibility that comes with it. This is a theme Kanye’s song draws upon in a way that directly butts heads with the kind of lavish and superficial rap conservatives point to in their wholesale rejection of the genre. Where what is frequently depicted as without consequence and sheerly ecstatic, Kanye offers us a much starker, serious glimpse into that world. One that ends in utter despair, peppered with contemplations of suicide, which he ultimately surrenders to. The chorus goes: “The clock’s ticking, I just count the hours Stop tripping, I’m tripping off the power”, which morphs in the latter act of the song into “I’m tripping off the powder.” The powder is, of course, cocaine. The parallel he’s drawing is a fitting one: power produces an illusory and short-lived ecstasy and an ultimately self-destructive one at that. In a way more mature than conservatives would expect, the artist isn’t celebrating vapid moneymaking or influence or drugs, but recognizing its inherently toxic and fleeting nature.

The first couple lines might seem characteristic of the bravado of stereotypical rap, but it transitions into something much more self-aware. The highs of fame and yes, power, are rife with pitfalls, and Kanye manages to express its folly through the medium of rap. Kanye goes from being “on his own dick” to merely “surviving.” He then engages in one of the most reckless acts imaginable, drunk driving, culminating in a crash--where the word “exciting” morphs into “suicide.” Is this not possible at the heart of what drives so much of the exaggerated peacocking in rap? This, of course, is just one example of how and where rap is not just music, but incredibly meaningful music if you take the time to appreciate and understand what its artists are saying. Which isn’t to say that they’re perfect, and they frequently make utterly foolish blunders. The reality is that it’s incredibly meaningful for more than purely indulgent reasons, which must also be seen.

A central criticism of Shapiro’s is that, as a classically trained musician, rap isn’t music. He makes this case on what can be generously described as faulty grounds. In the track just cited, after all, Kanye draws upon a wide array of musical traditions and genres. From rock to, yes, C Minor, this song serves as a case study to examine how rap is a legitimate form of music. The reservation of C Minor to depict a turbulent, heroic struggle, for instance, is many classical composers ranging from Dmitri Shostakovich String Quartet No. 8 have adhered to a classical tradition originating with Beethoven’s Symphony #5, and Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 2 "Resurrection.” Beyond that, his stirring mixture of rap, rock, and 70s classics in such a harmonious fusion can hardly be described as anything but music. The fact that the artist reworked one of his largest hits, Stronger, 75 times with 8 different engineers and eleven different mix engineers from around the world reflects the kind of devotion and consideration that often goes into this kind of, yes, music. Sneering elitism of this sort only serves to cripple conservatives’ ability to penetrate the broader culture. Defiantly blinding yourself to the virtues and complexity of something like rap does that mission a disservice, and hopefully, skeptics may be able to take a more thoughtful look at all forms of legitimate art beyond slogans such as “Rap is Crap.”

[bffhreprise]

Entry 168

  :Just end this quickly, so we can get on with our day.: ordered Ai.     :No problem.: I replied, taking position opposite of Portentia.  We felt insulted that James wanted us to spar with someone who didn’t even understand the basics of fighting.     I thrust my staff at Portentia and was mildly surprised by how she knew to sidestep there.  I was moving very slowly, but I hadn’t believed she would have even considered dodging from what I saw of her before.     Portentia’s staff came down at my head, so I deflected it, bringing the bottom of my staff up to hit her side.     :What!?  When did she learn to do that?:  demanded Ai as Portentia easily blocked my attack while counterattacking.     Portentia and I started moving faster and faster.  I didn’t want to believe this was the same girl who had been so easily tossed around before.  She was keeping up easily.  Her legwork was even great, maintaining her balance to block my kick while also deflecting my staff.  I kept trying and trying to get a good hit on her, but nothing was working.  Ai’s stream of suggestions in my head weren’t of any use.  The sound of our staves connecting over and over was so loud, but I couldn’t let up.     Pain… I made a mistake and was struck hard enough to throw me back against the wall.  I’d make her pay for that.  I hopped back to my feet and attacked her again, determined to get my revenge for that embarrassment.  I finally got a hit in, but her arm seemed fine.  I was certain I had broken it.  What was happening?  Blocking grew more and more difficult.  I was wearing down, but she continued attacking, attacking, attacking… Where was an opening?     I worried that my rib might have cracked as I flew back again, but my positioning was better.  I kicked off the wall to attack again.  I couldn’t afford to lose here, not with Lady Pendreigh watching.     :Mai, don’t… you’re in pain.  You can’t keep this up.: warned Ai.     :I can’t let her win.: I insisted.     I fought and fought, but swinging the staff was becoming a chore.  I hadn’t been so tired for a long time.  All of my concentration was focused on not getting hit again.  I couldn’t even attack, and she was smiling.  I’d do anything just to smack that smile off her face, but there was nothing I could do.     :Forfeit.  You’re going to get hurt even worse.: ordered Ai.     :No.  We can think of something.: I argued.     Ai saw her first.  Aaliyah was here, clapping and supporting a staff between her arms.  What was that?  I disengaged as I turned to stare.     :I’m not certain, but it looks familiar.: replied Ai.     We were certain that was no ordinary weapon, not with her holding it.  What did the assassin bringing a weapon here mean?  The staff was beautiful to behold, like a glittering night sky.     “Why am I not surprised to find that you have that?” stated Lady Pendreigh.     :Of course, she knows.: complained Ai.     Aaliyah stared at Lady Pendreigh with her wide, blue eyes looking far too innocent.     My sister and I might get berated for failing to study some ancient text we were assigned years ago at this rate, but I couldn’t complain at the moment.  I was thankful to be catching my breath.  I felt like I might fall over if my grip on the staff slipped.  How did Portentia get so strong?     “Are you really letting her have such a dangerous weapon?” demanded Lady Pendreigh.     Aaliyah grinned widely as she nodded in excitement and said, “Yep!  This is for Portentia!”     I shuddered.  The idea of Portentia, with her crazy ideas of being a superhero, wielding a powerful weapon was too much.     “May I know the reason?” asked Lady Pendreigh.     Aaliyah nodded enthusiastically.     “Well…?” questioned Lady Pendreigh expectantly.     “A superhero needs to be able to fight villains, and this will help!” exclaimed Aaliyah.     My sister and I groaned.     “OW!” exclaimed James.  He was staring down at his hand which was held by Lady Pendreigh’s.     Lady Pendreigh actually looked distraught as she said, “I’m so, so sorry, james.  I didn’t mean to hurt you.”     :I can’t blame her.  We’d feel bad if either of us hurt James.: I admitted.     :At least Jarod’s not here for this.: added Ai.     Neither of us wanted him to see my humiliation or Lady Pendreigh’s lapse.  He always seemed to think of us as “just people” and was prone to pointing out everyone made mistakes.  When did he make mistakes?     I watched as Aaliyah crossed the room and presented the staff to Portentia.  There was palpable excitement exuding from Portentia as she caressed the staff.     “The writing along the shaft is in xiǎozhuàn, also known as ‘lesser seal script’.  The Chinese poem describes the time between one day and the next and relates it to a time between life and death, as if time freezes in those moments.  To my family, the staff is known as ‘Midnight’.  One of my ancestors was toying with the wielder of that staff when he died.  He meant to block the end with his palm, but a blade came up through his hand and into his skull.  The wielder fought her way out of his camp and disappeared.” explained Lady Pendreigh.     With such a history behind the staff, I felt even more uncomfortable with Portentia having it.  I could feel Ai’s anxiety matching my own.     After Portentia took hold, Aaliyah signed <Twist the grip away from you while firmly holding the lower half. Then slide the grip downward.>     Portentia followed the instruction, causing the upper portion to segment and slide over the bottom to reveal a large blade.     “After you master Midnight, you’ll be able to beat down armored villains!” exclaimed Aaliyah excitedly.     :Why must the assassin be encouraging this hobby?: complained Ai.     :I wish I knew.: I agreed.     Nodding, Portentia pushed the grip back up and twisted it back around.     “Stop!” exclaimed Aaliyah, waving her arms wildly.  Then she grimaced as a blade shot out of the lower portion into Portentia’s abdomen.     Aaliyah poked the flat of the blade with her fingertip as she said, “You twisted too far.”     Portentia pulled the blade free and exclaimed “I just bought this shirt!”     :What?  She was stabbed and is complaining about her cheap clothing?: I questioned.     :No way.: stated Ai in shock.     “That’s completely unfair.” I agreed, staring at Portentia’s stomach.  There wasn’t even a mark.  She seemed to be completely healed.     “I know, right?  I’ve only worn this shirt once.  I really need to learn how to sew sometime.” suggested Portentia as if we cared about her shirt.     Exasperated, Ai explained “Not that.  My sister was referring to your healing.  Your wound closed the instant the blade was out.”     Portentia shrugged as if that was nothing and twisted the grip to retract the bloody blade.     “You probably should at least clean the blade off.” suggested James.     “Our floor as well.” we insisted together, though my sister and I were feeling more disturbed by Portentia’s healing than by the floor.  We had underestimated her.  In a prolonged fight, we stood no chance, and she was far too skilled now to beat her quickly without magic.     Portentia sighed, twisted the blade back out, and said, “Yeah.  You’re right.  Got a mop and bucket?”     We rolled our eyes and summoned water from the other room to sweep away the mess.  After cleaning the floor, we directed the water to the blade, not wanting such a weapon sullied despite its new owner.     My mouth fell open as the water broke free of our control.     “Well, that was somewhat unexpected.” stated Lady Pendreigh without sounding remotely surprised.     James was laughing.     Ai quickly took control of the filthy water and sent it to the drain, but my eyes were locked on the blade where Portentia’s blood seemed to be sucked inside.     “Look at the blade.” ordered Lady Pendreigh.     I glanced at her.  She was speaking to James.     “Portentia’s blood is magical?” asked Ai.     “A fair assessment.” stated Lady Pendreigh.     “Are you sure the weapon isn’t just self-cleaning?” asked Portentia.     Alma’s flat stare spoke volumes to us as she told Portentia “You’ve surely noticed that your blood will simply disappear given time.”     Shrugging, Portentia said, “Well, yeah, but…”  She paused for a moment.  “Okay.  I’ve got magic blood.”     Residual energy drifted over to the staff and disappeared as we watched.     “That’s really neat!” exclaimed James.     “Quite.  I wonder what Midnight does with it.” pondered Lady Pendreigh.  Looking over to Portentia, she said, “I doubt we’ll ever know, considering your employee will probably eat with the bloody thing now.”     “Aaliyah gave the staff to me, so I’m keeping it.  You’d probably end up breaking it in a fit.” argued Portentia as she hugged the staff.     Aaliyah giggled, and Alma sighed.  Even Lady Pendreigh didn’t want to cause a rift with the assassin, so stealing it was out.     “Just don’t spar with anyone using Midnight.  You could seriously injure them.” ordered Lady Pendreigh.     “But I need to practice with it to get better!” argued Portentia.     :I am not fighting her again.: I stated.     :But sister… you wouldn’t want me injured, would you?: teased Ai.     “Whatever you’ve been doing on your own seems to be working well enough.  The staff isn’t Mai’s best weapon, but holding your own against her is impressive considering your limited experience.  You’ve improved immensely, so keep practicing on your own if you insist on using Midnight.” replied Lady Pendreigh.     Portentia stared at her, looking shocked.     :We’re going to be hearing about this later.: complained Ai.     :She’ll think we have been slacking in our studies now.: I agreed.     Looking around at everyone, Lady Pendreigh said, “Well, I don’t know about the rest of you, but I would like some lunch.”  Then she turned and left the room.     Aaliyah raised her arms up at James, who casually lifted her and followed after Lady Pendreigh.     My sister and I watched the others leave and then looked to one another.  None of this had gone as we expected when we had agreed to spar, but we did learn from it.     :James is taking us shopping, so we didn’t completely lose out.: I suggested.     :Jarod will be coming as well.: agreed Ai.   Things could be worse.