#this is a very common refrain in our household

[thecraftgremlin]

Having a cat with my girlfriend is great because one of us will see him and go “Aww kitty!” and the other one will go “What’s he doing?” “Absolutely nothing :D” “That’s great. He’s so good.”

[bethanydelleman]

Can I please ask? In persuasion, how is Sir Walter Elliot living beyond his means? I mean he must've been very rich with loads of lands if he was a baronet, isn't it? Are there any particular references in the book which could point towards the particulars is his overspending? Thank you.

It is stated that Sir Walter's debt is what we would call "consumer debt", as in, Gucci handbags and Mercedes cars, not something like gambling debt which did plague the aristocracy and the gentry. Sir Walter wants to look the best and most fashionable in every situation.

In Ch 1:  

the heavy bills of his tradespeople... The Kellynch property was good, but not equal to Sir Walter’s apprehension of the state required in its possessor. While Lady Elliot lived, there had been method, moderation, and economy, which had just kept him within his income; but with her had died all such right-mindedness, and from that period he had been constantly exceeding it. It had not been possible for him to spend less; he had done nothing but what Sir Walter Elliot was imperiously called on to do; but blameless as he was [LOL!], he was not only growing dreadfully in debt, but was hearing of it so often, that it became vain to attempt concealing it longer, even partially, from his daughter. He had given her some hints of it the last spring in town; he had gone so far even as to say, “Can we retrench? Does it occur to you that there is any one article in which we can retrench?” and Elizabeth, to do her justice, had, in the first ardour of female alarm, set seriously to think what could be done, and had finally proposed these two branches of economy, to cut off some unnecessary charities, and to refrain from new furnishing the drawing-room

Sir Walter wants to live in the first style, probably he is always buying a new carriage, new clothes, new furniture etc. and also serving extravagant dinners. Not to mention all the mirrors! Since Elizabeth is running the household, she has probably helped run the ship into the ground, the opposite to Lady Elliot, who was keeping the ship afloat.

It's heavily suggested that the Crofts have far fewer servants than the Elliots. Admiral and Mrs. Croft moved the mirrors themselves and they put the umbrellas by the door because they aren't calling footmen to get the umbrellas for them. Both of the following quotes are said by Admiral Croft:

You can slip in from the shrubbery at any time; and there you will find we keep our umbrellas hanging up by that door. A good place is not it? But,” (checking himself), “you will not think it a good place, for yours were always kept in the butler’s room So I got Sophy to lend me a hand, and we soon shifted their quarters

And the dinner quote:

She [Elizabeth] felt that Mrs Musgrove and all her party ought to be asked to dine with them; but she could not bear to have the difference of style, the reduction of servants, which a dinner must betray, witnessed by those who had been always so inferior to the Elliots of Kellynch.

Also, according to a very interesting thesis I read about the economy during Jane Austen's time, there was crazy high inflation during this era. So Sir Walter might have trouble maintaining the lifestyle of his youth on the fortune of the present. For example, Jane Austen's family could afford a carriage on about £500 a year and then suddenly they couldn't because of price rises. The price of common consumer goods doubled.

Sir Walter also has an entailed estate. The phenomenon of “house poor” was common among the gentry and even happened to the aristocracy. Because you can’t sell your land or house, one has a large house but very little money to keep it running or to live on. For this reason, many heirs needed to marry a wealthy woman, to cover the debts of the estate. This is what happens with Eliza Brandon in Sense & Sensibility, the Brandons were far in debt and they needed her fortune to cover it so they forced her into marriage. Poor Eliza!

Now, this is purely conjecture, but Sir Walter might also have been maintaining some sort of mistress since he is so honourably not marrying for his daughter's sake. The price varied a lot depending on what kind of woman you wanted and how exclusive they were to you, but I think we can all agree that Sir Walter would demand the very best in paid companionship.

(There is this Canadian show called Princess where a financial advisor helps women, and a few men, who have fallen into deep consumer debt. So whenever I think about Sir Walter’s debt I sing the theme song in my head.)

[edennill]

Watch that old fire as it flickers and dies That once blessed the household and lit up our lives It shone for the friends and the clinking of glasses I'll tend to the flame, you can worship the ashes

The general vibes of light going out and fire dying... the bright and merry past and the cold present... I mean, that's the beginning of Celebrimbor's time in Middle Earth right there, complete with (the Spirit of) Fire dying!

Capture the wild things and bring them in line And own what was never your right to confine The lives and the loves and the songs are what matters I'll tend to the flame, you can worship the ashes

Nargothrond... Luthien as "what was never your right to confine"? or the Silmarils themselves? Both. The "lives and the loves and the songs" are so... Finrod, but Finrod is gone thanks to C&C's disregard of the former... And the refrain as a very direct refutation of their actions...

Do you feel heavy? Your eyes drop with grief Your spirit is wild and your suffering is brief So never you buckle and bend to the masses I'll tend to the flame, you can worship the ashes

Grief... after the Nirnaeth? learning his father is dead?

Get round the fire with a glass of strong ale And tell us a story from beyond the pale Bury some seeds and expect some strong branches I'll tend to the flame, you can worship the ashes

The beginnings of Eregion! Meetings of disparate peoples (I'm sorry, but ale! that's so dwarvish!) and the building of fundaments for this new city

Now show me a man that can meet all his needs For what we need most now is unity's seed A common old song for all creeds and all classes I'll tend to the flame, you can worship the ashes I'll tend to the flame

Still Eregion with it's friendship and openness and unity... the coming-together of everyone who will, no matter their people of origin...

What will we do when the world it is ending And time it is halted for friend and for foe? Try to hold on to the time as it passes I'll tend to the flame, you can worship the ashes I'll tend to the flame, you can worship the ashes I'll tend to the flame, you can worship the ashes

And the terrible end it all comes to... with the last repetitions of the refrain as a sort of defiance of sauron perhaps...?

You can fight me, but Ashes by The Longest Johns is sooo Celebrimbor-coded.

[himbogiants]

Trigger warnings!: mentions of sharp objects, blood, cursing

The Winner takes it all chapter 2

Vander Sythe, Grindle Foxglove, Harleen Diabel.

Three of the most prestigious names in the history of human Trainers.

Jesse Brookes was not prestigious. Nor was he a Trainer.

He was however a lumberjack and worked quite efficiently with wood, owing a small business of sorts up in outer lands sector, in the region of Tavers.

Living a bit away from the busy and bumbling towns he didn’t get much action in his everyday life- apart from his job of course. Which is why when he got an offer to supply and deliver wood for the Selecting Trials coming up quite soon he accepted.

He wouldn’t call himself a humble man in any means, but he would admit he was pretty sheltered from what happened in society.

He knew of humans, though had never bared witness to one, from what he was told they were sent to live in comfortable secure sectors all around the map, hidden from society given all their needs to continue on.

Point was, it was not a common occurance in the slightest for Giants to see a human.

Bar once a year.

The Selecting Trials.

Humans of any age could sign up to show off their skills to Giants and have a chance at being scouted and trained in different sports categories, allowing them to come live in a luxurious lifestyle and be taken care of by the Giant so long as they entered other races in the future.

Unless a human had been scouted, it was illegal to have a human in a Giant household.

He himself wasn’t so sure on these terms but so long as nobody was hurt then he didn’t see much issues.

For the most part humans and giants lived separate peaceful lives and so long as that was the case then he supposed he could let it slide.

It was a crisp cloudy afternoon by the time he had arrived, accompanied by his finest men- and only men. Wilbur Dawson, Owen McRee and Zachary Downes.

A short stout man with an odd moustache had weaselled his way up to them, and by the look of his face Brookes had a feeling it was going to be a long day.

“Gentlemen-“

He eyed them head to toe

“I er- think.. anyways! There is much to do and you lot are very late! Very late indeed”

Owen -who already wasn’t onboard with agreeing to this job- rolled his eyes and looked down to continue picking at his fingers

The persistent man stretched out to look past them

“Is..is there any more of you? Or..”

Brookes had stepped in to reassure the man. They weren’t a lot. But they weren’t daft men either. But dealing in business had led him to meet all sorts, and this man was no different.

“Just this lot, and we are more than capable, just point us in the direction and we can start setting up. Apologies for our timekeeping, wagon wheels don’t match too well with a rocky road.”

The man didn’t seem to be convinced, a quick gaze to the their mode of transport, and the horned beast pulling it, but with a quick nod he directed them to the right

“I see. Well, just down that hill then. The main grounds have already been cleared and seating has already been started, you can start with the frames for today. Should you need anymore wood there is a vast enough woodland just down the valley. Do please refrain from reaching out for assistance, we are very busy, there is much to be done, just use your brains.. if possible”

he said with short jovial laugh, patting Wilbur on the shoulder then turned heel and headed in the opposite direction.

Wilbur, angrily dusting off his shoulder, watched him with a glare

“wanker.”

Owen, who couldn’t agree more nodded with a playful judgemental tone eyeing the man as he proudly walked away “yeah, does seem a bit of a ball ache doesn’t he? You sure know how to pick ‘em boss.”

Zachary watched the man leave smacking Owen over the head “Keep it down! He hasn’t even made it down the hill yet!”

Owen scowled slapping him in the same manner in return “all the more reason for us to say it louder. Must be hard to get a message through that thick skull, posh bastard.”

Wilbur snickered and took a breathe preparing to shout after him only for a large hand to be quickly placed over his mouth earning a mumbled passionate protest from Wilbur

Brookes pinched the bridge of his nose with a tired sigh, removing his hand from Wilbur’s maw

“this job has good pay, bastards or not, we need to stay professional. We will only be here for three jobs or so. Just keep it together.”

Owen and Wilbur shared a matching expression and caved in with obedience, while Zachary repetitively nodding gave a firm “yes boss”.

The group unloaded the wagon and with a stretch headed to work.

——

Eleanor felt sickly. And not just from her poor health, but from the thought of having to join Lavender Maxwells clique in the training grounds of the Decker.

She didn’t need more wounds before the Trials.

Through the mangy crowded alleys she kept to the sidelines watching different lives pass her by. The Decker was filled to the brim and it was full of very different individuals.

You could learn a lot from watching from the sidelines, which by chance is what happened when she a particular conversation caught her ear.

Two men said idly sipping from the cartons as they organised papers into a box. Eleanor squinted- it was the entry forms for the Selecting Trials.

“I can’t believe Larry’s gotta go up there today. Like actually go up there. Make conversation with those..things.”

The other man scoffed ”please he don’ gotta do none of the sort. He jus’ gotta deliver. Besides, he ain’t permitted to speak. Hand off the forms, keep the head down. Be seen no’ heard. Plus, he’s lucky in a way. He has permission to leave this shit hole. I ain’ ever seen the real sky, or trees or..ya know.”

The first man sipped and nodded nonchalantly.

“I suppose. How long you reckon he’ll be?”

The second man shrugged

“Couldn’t tell ya, I hear he’s gotta travel through the forest first. Once out it could take ‘im an hour or maybe less, to get to the main facility anyways. Better enjoy the silence while he can. Them guards ‘ill scare the ballocks outta ‘im”

The first man tilted his head as did Eleanor.

“How do ya mean?”

Sending an incredulous look the second man laughed “ well they probably ain’ ever seen a human before! With us being bloody locked underground an’ all! They’re bound to be a bit curious!”

The first man gulped

“And you called the poor chap lucky. When does he leave?”

The other man peeled around the corner at who she could only assume was the ‘Larry’ man in question

“From the look of things, I’d wager twenty minutes. So we bes’ be gettin a move on with these forms”

Eleanor perked up.

A secluded forest, alone. She’d be able to practice..see the outside world before the selection made her fear it.

She could fit behind them crates, she was skinny enough. Though, being skinny wasn’t exactly anything new from malnutrition and lack of sunlight the undercity provided.

She just had to be precise. And quick.

She needed her bow.

——

“Look at them. The sorry fools. They haven’t worked a day in their lives”

Axes swung through the air, chunks flying through the air, and despite the cloudy sky the heat was building up. Owen and Wilbur had taken to chopping while Brookes and Zachary focused on the finer work.

Zachary rolled his eyes “ yeah well, you won’t have to watch for much longer if you get your work done faster.”

Owen mimicked him under his breath earning a snicker from Wilbur.

“Come on Zach! let us have a little fun, it’s not everyday you get to poke fun at the rich and privileged!” Wilbur justified.

Zachary had stopped listening at that point focusing his attention back to Brookes, who had stopped his work and was in a deep count of their stock muttering a gruff "shit" beneath his breathe

“Boss?..everything ok?”

Brookes groaned, stating firmly

“we need more wood.”

Zachary looked down bewildered- the pile was big enough in his opinion

“boss not that my eyes are as trained as yours but..it seems we have plenty, are you sure?”

Brookes grunted and stood up, dropping his blade and snatching his axe, tying it precisely to his belt.

"Must've miscounted. It shouldn’t take to long.”

Without another word he stomped down the hill making way for the forest past all the construction.

——

Eleanor hurried, her ripping shoes only worsening as she dashed through the wet floors, her legs being splashed and subjected to the filth and grime.

Hopping over crates, pushing through people, and not stopping for a breath she kept her sights on the training grounds up ahead.

People made their comments as they saw were she was headed, but by now she was used to them, the Decker was an grimy piss-pot, an ill miserable place full of ill miserable people, who weren’t afraid to voice their thoughts.

“Poor girl. She don’t have much time left”

“Them Trials gonna eat her alive”

“A goner to be sure”

“We should place bets, at least that way we’ll be guaranteed money.”

Making her way through the main gates into the dark hallowed hallways taking an immediate right, rushing in and clashing into none other than Desmond Fitzgerald.

He whipped around eyes that surged annoyance, only for expression to change amongst seeing just who had bumped into him “oh-“

She didn’t have time. If he was here Lavender wouldn’t be far.

She kept her pace making a beeline for the weapons hung by the wall lit up by a single flickering torch.

“H-hey I.. I’m sorry..I’m sorry about Lav..”

No time.

Vambraces strapped on, bow secured on her back and arrows loosely hung against her hips by a flimsy rope, this endeavour had already cost her ten minutes. It was gonna take another ten to make it back!

As she made it clear in her lack of halting, she had other places to be.

Before she could leave however he grabbed her arm

She snapped her gaze back to him, a wild look in her eye. Desmond had never single handedly hurt her, rather watched from the sidelines.

She supposed there was a first for everything.

“..I meant it- the apology. I.. I thought the knife was a bluff”

All it took was a little blood to get him to see the twisted ways of her little group? She’d heard enough and before the boy could continue she was out the gates thrashing through gasping civilians in a determined manner.

Desmond called after her

“Please! Just.. I needed to warn you..”

Once back in her first spot she twirled all around to see the wagon had already left.

She wanted to scream.

Panting she slumped over, to think she’d need that stamina for the Trials.

With a defeated demeanour she walked along the pathways beneath the balconies of each house, passing taverns-

“Move it!! I am on a strict time schedule!”

She sprang up in fright, had she done something wrong?

“You seem- you seem to be- to b- slow- fer a fella rushing” a drunken man slurred

The bar just up ahead. Another casual tavern showdown it seemed.

“For your information you drunken for these are the forms for the Selecting Trials! Now get off the road!”

Eleanors dull eyes brightened as slowly but surely she began to run, taking a right and just before her- the wagon.

Thank goodness for drunken idiots.

Blending in with the busy streets she crawled on, keeping a trained eye on each man switching ever few seconds. And once she had settled she let out a breath. This was it.

The situation seemed to have dissolved and before long her ride and reached a stop.

The main gates. No human that hadn’t prior persimmon or knowledge from the authorities had ever made it this far.

Once papers had been thoroughly examined, they were back on track and with a screeching cry the rusty gates were hoisted up and out they went into the unknown.

It was only really then that an unsettling feeling resided within her. She could be killed for this. This was very much illegal.

The sickening feeling had remained until they reached a clearing. And truly emerged.

She had seen paintings, heard story’s, listened to drunken fools sing ballads. But nothing could ever compare to the actually thing, that much was clear.

Crisp fresh air filled her poor lungs as heat- real heat- sank though her sickly skin. Real grass, real trees, so lush and green, they stood tall and mighty.

And real sky- the sky enamoured her but it also caught her off guard.

It was grey. She began to doubt the reality of those so called ‘stories from above’.

But besides that everything else was real. No fabrication, fake lighting, no crowded streets or polluted noise.

Just simplicity, the only sound being that of the horse trotting against the baron mud along with the wheels and occasional twittering of birds.

She’d only ever seen dead ones- pheasant to be exact when rations gave out bird meat before switching to rodent.

And there lay the forest, just as those two men had predicted. This was her stop.

Crawling to the edge she slipped off, tumbling roughly to the ground. A metallic tasting liquid blossomed onto her cheeks as she smudged at her nose. Bleeding, but at least nothing was broken for once.

As she tracked through he seemingly forgotten trees, mesmerised at their foreboding heigh, she distanced herself into a clearing. Perfect

With bow now in hand she reached down to her waist, her first arrow sliding by her string.

There were many names attending the Trials but nothing compared to the main three.

Vander Sythe, Grindle Foxglove, Harleen Diabel.

From the tales, they had a reputation and they were a difficult trio to impress.

Harleen Diabel was her go-to in particular. She had a fondness for archery.

A few calculated shots before the esteemed Harleen and she could prove she was worth something. That she was more than just the hopeless case the Decker saw her as.

With her body turned to the east, her legs an even width apart and head turned to her target she pulled back her string, her arms wobbled from her latest missed lessons thanks to a certain group.

She focused herself, closing one eye.

And as she let went to let go, her left arm stung beneath her poorly crafted vambraces her fresh wound coercing with the flaky leather, causing the released arrow to go haywire spiralling into a different direction.

And so she collected her shot and tried again.

And again.

And again.

And by her tenth try she had released, her right hand knocking back into her head with a harsh whack.

She stumbled backwards, her eyes burned as she held in her tears. She just needed to concentrate!

Faster!

Stronger!

Focus!

The voices in her mind morphed into her mothers.

Tears slipped down her cheeks

AGAIN

AGAIN

AGAIN

A-

With a cry she threw the bow, she stood panting as her eyes revelled in sweet release, fresh tears stained her dirty cheeks.

She turned away from the direction it had flown in slumming down by the nearest tree.

It was moments like these were she truly felt isolated, and the worst part she hated admitting was that loneliness was just a brutal feeling, it was reality.

It was a kill or be killed world. People only watched their own backs, took what they could, gave nothing back.

An odd feeling ricocheted through the ground beneath her.

Not even her own mother cared.

Thumping.

She had been cheated from her childhood.

Louder.

Had never truly experienced happiness, never cracked a real smile in earnest.

Closer.

And all her chances of ever experiencing that, the knowledge that somebody had seen something in her, taken her in out of awe, were fading.

The trees bent back as birds cawed an soared off in a hurry, cawing in a matter of urgency.

She snapped out of her pity party and back to the present moment

She rose to her feet in an instant, the sickening feeling blossomed once more.

A crack of a branch plummeted her stomach, along with the residing boom before her.

She sank back into the tree.

Her lungs caved, betraying any possibilities of drawing a breath.

There before her, in the clearing towering just over the tree tops, stood a Giant.

[crackimagines]

Child!Byleth as a Professor

Alright, at some point I saw a post about how funny it would be if tiny child Byleth became the professor instead wait a second how old are we of the adult one.

I wanted to find the og post and link it because I love the idea and wanted to write for it, but I couldn’t find it.

If OP is reading this, know that your idea is BRILLIANT!

Now that context is over, LET THE LESSON BEGIN

EDIT: Child!Byleth Post Masterlist here!

------

Child!Byleth as a Professor (Part 1)

Meeting the Tiny Professor

------

“Oh, you’ve got to be kidding me...” Jeralt said as he face palmed.

Rhea had told Jeralt that his son would be a Professor at this academy after his heroic feats saving some students.

What boggled his mind, and everyone else’s in that room, was that his son looked like he was about 10 years old.

True, he was a gifted mercenary and a smart kid. He didn’t earn the title ‘The Ashen Demon’ by lazing around all day, but he was not expressive in the slightest.

He was sure that he’d freak everyone out with how he acted, but there wasn’t any use telling Rhea no. 

He exited the audience chamber with Byleth, and he looked down at him.

“You heard what she said, right?”

“Yeah...Why me though?” Byleth asked, a blank expression on his face.

“Kid, if I knew, I would’ve told you...How about you get around the academy and get to know the brats? I have to check something in my room. I’ll be with you soon.”

Byleth nodded and went down the stairs.

A knight guarding the room looked at Jeralt.

“Uh sir, shouldn’t he have an escort of some kind?”

Jeralt scoffed, turning back to him.

“If anything, you guys would be escorted by HIM.”

As Byleth walked through the school, he noticed several people giving him funny looks as well as calling him ‘cute’.

He walked to the reception hall and saw Edelgard.

“Ah, hello Byleth.” Edelgard said respectfully.

Byleth nodded silently and she continued.

“Thank you once again for saving me and the others. We are in your debt.”

“Don’t worry about it...By the way, you’re the leader of a house, right?”

“That is correct. What of it?”

“Apparently I’m supposed to be teaching a group of students.”

Edelgard smiled. “I didn’t think you could squeeze out a joke like that.”

His face didn’t even move, only then she realized that he wasn’t joking.

“O-Oh, pardon? You’re replacing our previous professor?”

“Apparently. Miss Rhea wanted it.”

Several students noticed what he said and talked amongst themselves, while guards looked at each other in confusion.

If Byleth could feel a lot of regret, it would be now. The news began to spread like wildfire.

Blue Lions

Once Byleth talked to Dimitri and learned about his household, he was about to find Claude next until he was approached by Annette and Mercedes.

“Hey there! You’re Byleth right?” Annette asked.

“Yes.”

“Oh my goodness! He looks precious!” Mercedes said, cupping her hands together.

Dimitri face palmed in embarrassment. Sure he was a child, but the last thing that this kid needed was to be coddled.

Byleth remained stone-faced as they threw compliments and started to baby talk him.

“Just let us know if you need any help, sweetie! We can be your big sisters!” Annette cheerfully said.

“I must be seeing the other students now, I am on a tight schedule. Please excuse me.” Byleth replied, walking between them but making sure not to hit or shove them. 

He walked off towards the Golden Deer house while all three of them looked at Byleth curiously.

Felix, Sylvain, and Ingrid were speaking to each other until they saw Byleth walk by. 

(Sylvain) “Hey there, you lost?”

Byleth turned towards Sylvain, his cold gaze instantly scaring him.

“I’m okay, thank you.”

Ingrid smiled politely and knelt down.

“Sorry, my friend didn’t mean to be rude. I’m Ingrid! And that’s Sylvain and Felix.”

“My name is Byleth. A pleasure.”

“So, you’re that kid everyone’s been talking about.” Felix said, a hint of hostility aiming at him.

“How did someone like you managed to get picked to be a professor?”

Ingrid slapped his shoulder angrily.

“Hey, don’t be mean! He’s just a child!”

Felix ignored her and continued.

“Listen here, I won’t let a kid get the better of me-”

Byleth turned to him, keeping his stone-faced expression.

“You won’t win.”

Ingrid was taken aback while Sylvain snorted, immediately looking at Felix who’s face spelled nothing but surprise and something that said ‘YOU WANNA GO?’.

“Is there any other students in the Blue Lions I should know about?” Byleth asked, turning back to Ingrid.

“U-Um...There’s Dedue and Ashe. They’re inside right now.”

“Thank you. Excuse me.”

He didn’t turn back to face Felix, who was ready to strangle the child until Ingrid karate chopped his head.

“Ack! What the-”

“ARE YOU SERIOUSLY PICKING A FIGHT WITH A CHILD, FELIX?!”

Byleth introduced himself to Ashe and Dedue. It was mostly Ashe talking the entire time since both of them were extremely quiet.

(Ashe) “U-Um...well, I look forward to speaking to you more often!”

Ashe said smiling. Byleth nodded at him then turned back to Dedue.

They both stared at each other, seemingly examining in close detail about the person they were staring down.

After a while, they both nodded at the same time, gaining a silent respect for each other and Byleth left.

(Dedue) “...I like him.”

Golden Deer

Leonie was the first to notice that a child was at the doors, but then she realized who exactly the child was.

“Hey, you’re Captain Jeralt’s kid, right?”

He looked up at her, not seemingly caring about the fact he was.

“I’m told that, yes.”

“You’re told-What? You should have pride in that! I was personally taught by the Blade Breaker at your age, and I am forever grateful for that!”

“Okay.”

Leonie’s anger went from 0 to the eternal hells.

“Oh, you’re a little punk, you know that!?” Leonie shouted, seemingly getting more and more angry that THIS is Jeralt’s child.

Hilda came in and separated the two.

“Alright, settle down there, Leonie! No need to pick a fight with our possible professor!” 

“WHAT?! This kid is our professor?!”

“I possibly can. I’m here to speak to the students of the Golden Deer. Claude said I’d be able to find everyone in here.” Byleth said, looking disinterestedly around the classroom.

“You’ve come to the right place! Sorry about her, my name’s Hilda kiddo!”

“Please refrain from calling me that-”

“I’ll be more than happy to help you out in case you need help with shelves and such-”

“Is there anyone else I can talk to?”

Now, Hilda was just as angry as Leonie.

“What the, hey I’m being nice here!”

“I appreciate it, but I can do without the coddling. I am aware of my appearance, but I am far from just a child. Excuse me.”

He walked off, and they immediately started grumbling angrily about the brat that they had just seen.

Lysithea was watching from a distance, and immediately gained respect for the tiny professor.

“Finally, someone who understands my pain...!” She said to herself.

Afrer a seemingly pleasant conversation with Raphael and Ignatz, he left to find the other students. The three had discussed their history of the class and how strong they were, noticing that Byleth was especially strong himself.

Raphael offered to train with Byleth and Ignatz offered to study, to which he both respectfully declined due to his tight schedule. Byleth took a mental note of liking the two, however.

He went up to Lorenz, politely clearing his throat to get his attention.

“Ah, hello there! You must be the new professor! You may just be a child, but please note, you will not get any special treatment from me! For I am a noble, and to disregard such formalities for someone like you would-”

Byleth immediately lost interest, and turned away to find another student.

“What the- GET BACK HERE! I WASN’T FINISHED YOUNG MAN!”

“When you have something to say instead of idly flaunting, then please feel free to find me.” Byleth said without turning back, walking towards Marianne.

“O-Oh...hi there.” Marianne said shyly.

“Hello. My name is Byleth.”

“You’re...the professor? You’re so young!”

“I get that a lot.”

Marianne immediately backpedaled, her eyes going wide.

“I-I’m so sorry! I d-didn’t mean to offend you! You’re b-better off talking to someone else!”

“...Uwah...!”

Everyone in the room turned to look at Byleth as soon as he made that adorable noise.

Even though his face was still not moving, his voice sounded slightly panicked.

“P-Please do not worry about it. You’re one of the nicer people I’ve talked to today.”

Marianne’s heart skipped a beat as soon as she heard that.

“T-Thank you...” Marianne replied, slightly embarrassed she was being comforted by a child.

“Please take care.” Byleth said, bowing, then leaving the room.

“W-What a nice child...”

As he walked out, he saw Claude leaning against a pillar.

“So, got to know a bit of these misfits?”

“It’s a madhouse.”

Claude snorted, seeing everyone’s reaction, ranging from laughing, to pure rage at him.

“Well, it’s our little slice of heaven from the Alliance! Thanks for taking the time, professor!”

Byleth silently nodded and went to the Black Eagles class.

(Hilda) “That-”

(Lorenz) “Little-”

(Leonie) “DEVIL!”

Black Eagles

Dorothea and Petra saw Byleth walk in and waved hello at him. He began to walk over to her as she introduced herself.

“Greetings. My name be...IS, Petra.”

“Hey, my name’s Dorothea. You must be Byleth, right?”

“I am. Nice to meet you two. Can you tell me about this class?”

Dorothea explained the very basics of the empire, considering she was a commoner and not of high status.

Petra explained that she was a transfer student, and studying their language.

"I see. I will speak to your classmates for more info, but thank you very much, Petra and Dorothea. Please excuse me, but it was a pleasure speaking to you.”

He walked off towards Caspar and Linhardt.

“What a precious little kid! To think he might be our professor!”

“I know right? He was much polite for someone his age.

Caspar and Linhardt turned to Byleth as he walked near them.

“Huh? You lost kid?”

“That’s not just a kid, Caspar, that’s the new professor.”

“Huh? Is that sarcasm I hear, Linhardt?!”

“It’s not...Frankly, I’m as surprised as you are.” Linhardt said.

“That being said, you must be exceptionally intelligent to be teaching at this age.”

“Hmph.” Byleth replied. “Care to tell me about yourselves?”

“Well, I’m Caspar, and that’s Linhardt. I’m here to train as a warrior!”

“I’m here to research whatever interests me...”

“Care to elaborate?” Byleth asked.

“Ah, I’m sorry but...I am quite tired and cannot spare the time to-”

“Horribly lazy, got it.” Byleth said turning to Caspar.

Though that was very true, that still hurt.

Caspar laughed and crossed his arms.

“I like you, Byleth! Hope we see more of you!”

Byleth nodded and went towards Ferdinand.

“Hello, you’re the new professor? I am Ferdinand Von Aegir, son of the most famous household in the Empire, and rival of Lady Edelgard herself!”

Byleth looked at Ferdinand interestingly for a moment, until he properly examined him.

“All due respect, you wouldn’t even be able to contend with me, mister Ferdinand.”

“What the?! I wouldn’t be able to contend with a mere child?!”

Byleth sighed, realizing he just found another Lorenz-type.

“You may be the son of Sir Jeralt, but that is quite arrogant of you!”

“Please elaborate the differences of mine vs yours with Edelgard. I’d hesitate to even call you a bench-warmer.”

Everyone was taken completely aback, overhearing their conversation.

Byleth bowed and turned away.

“My apologies for such a rude statement. Please excuse me, I am on a schedule.”

He walked away, Ferdinand at a loss for words.

“...What...What’s with this sassy child?! This is to be a professor?!”

He went towards Hubert who had been watching him closely the entire time.

“You...you’re dangerous.” Hubert said calmly.

Byleth stared back at him, not being intimidated by his presence.

“Yourself as well. You know who I am, so what is your name?”

“Hubert. I am the aide to Lady Edelgard. I trust you have met her already.”

“Indeed. She spoke highly of you.”

They stared each other down, the aura that both of them were radiating was enough to make a warrior drop his weapon out of fear.

“I hope to see you in action soon, Professor.”

“You too, Hubert.”

They both nodded and Byleth left to go talk with Bernadetta.

Though it was a mutual respect, everyone was sure they were planning how to murder each other already.

Bernadetta was facing a corner, hoping not to get noticed.

“Please don’t see me! Please don’t see me!”

“Excuse me-”

“EEEEK! I’M...O-Oh, it’s...a child.”

“If I may ask, who were you hiding from?”

“Oh, well I heard that the new professor was SUPER scary! And I didn’t want to him to talk to me because well...I’m not great with people, little guy. Hopefully he’ll overlook me.”

Everyone stared at Bernadetta, she didn’t realize that she was basically insulting the professor right now.

Byleth however found this entire situation...amusing. His face went something like this.

I like this one...

“May I ask your name?”

“Huh? Oh uh, it’s Bernadetta. What’s yours?”

“Byleth.”

He turned around still wearing a small smile as Bernadetta’s smile slowly disappeared and turned into an open mouth of horror.

As he left to go find Jeralt, he heard Bernadetta let out a wail, realizing what she had just done.

Audience Chamber...

Rhea, Seteth and Jeralt were waiting as he walked back in.

“Hey kid, how’d it go?”

“Was alright.” Byleth replied standing by his dad.

“Hello, Byleth. Have you made your decision?”

“...Miss Rhea? May I speak freely for a moment?”

“Of course, dear-”

“They’re all idiots.”

Rhea’s eyes widened while Seteth gasped audibly. Byleth stood still not really knowing what he said was very rude.

Jeralt however, began laughing his ass off.

[brunoimyourgorilla]

Kids Books About Diversity

Most of the information here on The Educational Tourist website is about reading before visiting specific places, but this post is all about diversity that you can find anywhere – during your travels to far flung places or during local adventures to your grocery store, school, and church. Diversity is what the world is all about and helping children navigate that diversity in a positive way is a great way to set them up, and really to set us all up, for success!!

What is Diversity, anyway?

So what is diversity, really? How do we explain that to children? One of my favorite explanations is to use visuals. I like to show a field of one type of flower and comment on how pretty it is when all the flowers are the same.

But, if an insect doesn’t like this one type of flower, then they’ll be hungry. And this flower only blooms for a certain amount of time, what about the time it isn’t blooming? Then I show them a photo like this one:

In this photo everyone could find a flower they like, and a flower that blooms at a different time so there is always a beautiful flower to be enjoyed.

There is diversity in all parts of the world. Biodiversity in plants and animals helps the planet work properly. People are diverse, too. We all have different preferences for food, clothes, music, religion, and so forth. We speak different languages and have different ideas.

While we have lots of differences we are really more alike than different. We all want to live happily in peace with our friends and family. Everyone wants to feel safe and loved and have enough to eat.

*contains affiliate links*

Reading About Diversity Before a Trip

Improve your trip AND your child’s intelligence:

We want children to remember, internalize, and make these experiences part of their core being! When a child learns something they add to their schema, or background knowledge, which will help them in their education until the end of time. Layering the learning by introducing information and then showing it to them on a vacation is the best way to internalize information. Use travel to get smarter and improve skills for the kids in the family!

“Reading is at the heart of all formal education.” 

A GREAT way to get the wheels turning and introduce information about your adventure destination AND improve your child’s intelligent and academic educational success is reading. Stories with familiar characters or beloved animals will pave the way for learning – really learning about the new culture they are going to experience. Read kids’ books set in London or listen with an audiobook. Check out my lists for other destinations, too like Italy, Paris, Hawaii, New York City, Caribbean, Greece, San Francisco, Italy, Colombia, Canada, and Spain.

Need more proof that reading is valuable? A study published in the Economic Journal shows that ‘boys with easy access to books tend to have higher incomes when they become adults than their counterparts who grow up with few or no books by their side’ and “Men who grew up in households filled with books earn 21 percent more..”. So, read before your trip! It will be fun AND will make your kiddo smarter and wealthier in the long run.

Read at bedtime and have sweet dreams about your upcoming trip! Or download to an IPAD or Kindle and read on the loooooooooooong flight over. These are perfect for any storytime before, during, and after a trip, too.

Capitalize on your child’s interest and incorporate those into your next adventure. Choosing a book on something they already like will help get them interested in your family’s adventure! There are literally a million to choose from, but don’t despair. I have spent hours and hours reading books, reading summaries, reading reviews, reading about authors, reading about all topics related to diversity SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO!

*contains affiliate links*

Teacher’s Picks for Kids’ Books about Diversity

All are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman

All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold and Suzanne Kaufman is a beautiful story about inclusion and diversity. In this story, all children are welcome and learn about each other’s cultures and lives while showing respect for each other. The repeated refrain, “All are welcome here.” is a calming mantra in the current divisive times of our nation. A must read to introduce the idea that we are all more alike than we are different. Though written for kindergarten through 3rd grade students, even the older children will appreciate the message and it is a good introduction to the school year or a unit or inclusion and diversity. Fabulous before a trip where you’ll meet and mingle with people different from your own family. Pages: 44, Lexile Measure: AD370l.

Same, Same, but Different by Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw

Pen pals from different lands learn that while they do have some differences, they really are very much the same. Great book for teaching kids to look for accepting the diversity of human similarities in others. We are so much more alike than we are different. Written for kids aged 4-7 years old, but can be enjoyed by all elementary school students. Pages: 40 Lexile level: AD460L

It’s OK to be different by Sharon Purtu

It’s OK to be different by Sharon Purtu is a favorite among teachers for reinforcing the idea that different is not just OK but part of what makes the world beautiful. Teaching diversity with books is a great way to get a conversation started. Written for kids aged kindergarten through 3rd grade but can easily be used up through elementary school. Pages: 28.

Sulwe by Lupita Nyong

Sulwe by Lupita Nyong is my personal favorite for teaching about diversity. The gorgeous book is about accepting yourself, even if you are ‘different’ and understanding how your ‘different’ beauty makes the world a better place Written for young elementary aged children, but as is usually the case, these pictures books lend themselves well to older children as well. I recommend it for kids up through elementary school. Pages: 48. Lexile measure: AD580L

Older kids really enjoy connecting with the author. I showed this interview with Lupita Nyong to my students. It helps them see that authors are real people and that even famous people can have struggles like you and me.

One Big Heart by Linsey Davis

AWARDS won:

Good Morning America’s Anchors’ Favorite Book Picks of 2019 — Good Morning America

Outreach Magazine’s ‘Best Books of the Year’ Youth Category’ March 2020 — Outreach Magazine

Plugged In Magazine’s ‘Top 10 Family-Friendly Picture Books from 2019’ — Plugged In Magazine

Risen Magazine’s ‘8 Titles for Toddlers to Tweens During Quarantine’ — Risen Magazine

‘Notable Christian Children’s Books by Authors of Color’ July 2020 — ChristianBestsellerList.com (ECPA)

One Big Heart by Linsey Davis, an award winning new journalist, is a great way to start a conversation about how people have a lot in common. Diversity is a critical element of education now. Teaching children to look for commonalities instead of differences will help get us back to a kinder and more gentle world which is something we desperately need. Written for kids ages 4-8. Pages: 32

Acceptance is my Super Power by Alicia Ortega

Acceptance is my Super Power by Alicia Ortega has such a lovely idea. Imagine if the world rewarded kindness and acceptance of our diversity! Written for elementary school aged kids this lovely book is a great conversation opener with older kids, too. Pages: 44 pages.

We ALL Belong by Nathalie and Alex Goss

We ALL Belong by Nathalie and Alex Goss is a book that belongs in every classroom. Teachers love this sort of opener for the year or the semester to remind kids that we all belong – in the same world and in the same classroom. Diversity is beautiful. Great ideas for our troubled world. Written for kids aged up to 12 years old. Pages: 39.

Hair Like Mine by LaTashia M.Perry

Hair Like Mine by LaTashia M. Perry is about a little girl who doesn’t enjoy her curls. As she looks around for someone who shares her curls she finds out we are all different and fabulous. Written for elementary school aged kids, this book will be loved by all. Pages: 32. Lexile Measure: 560L.

***This book has a sequel!

Skin Like Mine by Bea Jackson

I am Whole by Shola Oz

I Am Whole by Shola Oz is a book about a little girl’s journey to discovering that all the things together make her beautiful. We can all look at our unique and diverse backgrounds and enjoy how they make use unique and special. Great conversation opener for even the older kids. Written for elementary school aged kids. Pages: 24.

Chocolate Milk Por Favor by Maria Dismondy

Chocolate Milk Por Favor by Maria Dismondy is a sweet book about a little boy who arrives in his new school not speaking the language. The teacher uses empathy to help her students communicate with the boy and celebrate the diversity in their classroom. Written for kids aged 4-11. Pages: 32. Lexile measure: 500L.

The Cloverleaf Books – Alike and Different is a series on diversity. Great books handle each part of life and all the many beautiful combinations it can have. Great discussion points. Use with any age up through elementary school.

My Food, Your Food by Lisa Bullard

My Family, Your Family by Lisa Bullard

My Home, Your Home by Lisa Bullard

My Language, Your Language by Lisa Bullard

Interested in Adding Children’s Books on Diversity to Your School Library?

Are you interested in adding these children’s books on diversity to your school library? Have you ever written a grant for such things? Me neither, but ‘Nothing Venture, Nothing Gained”, right? Now is the time!

Take a look at the grant for adding books to your library: Snapdragon Book Foundation. Follow the directions and give it a shot. Maybe you’ll get the grant to add these wonderful kids’ books on diversity to your school library.

If you are traveling with the kids, be sure to read about your destination before you go! You’ll layer the learning and get the wheels of imagination turning before you even arrive.

Where to next?

Kids’ Books on Hawaii

Kids’ Books on Canada

Kids’ Books about New York City

Kids’ Books about Italy

The post Kids Books About Diversity appeared first on The Educational Tourist.

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[gryffindorcls]

Meant To Be:  Chapter 6 (AU)

IT’S DAY SIX OF LOVESQUARE FLUFF WEEK 2020!!!

(LOL.  NO, IT MOST DEFINITELY IS NOT, BUT I MUST MAKE EACH POST LOOK THE SAME.  WE CAN ALL JUST PRETEND THAT THIS ISN’T TWO WEEKS LATE. *nervous laughter*) Thank you @lovesquarefluffweek​ for organizing this event!

Welcome back!  Today’s prompt is “AU”.

I PROMISE YOU ARE STILL READING THE SAME FIC.  IT WILL ALL MAKE SENSE IN THE END.  I based the entire fic on this chapter.  Also, this chapter is much longer than the other ones for...reasons.

I also collabed with @flashflashitsash!  She made some STUNNING art for this chapter.  You can find it here.

Enjoy!

---

BEGINNING

<— Previous    Next —->

AO3

FanFiction

Chapter 6: AU

“Rise and shine, Your Highness,” a loud grating voice called out, “It’s time to start your day!”

Adrien groaned, flipped onto his stomach, and smashed his pillow over his head. “Why do you sound so cheerful today, Plagg? You’re never happy this early in the morning.”

The older man drew the curtains with a flourish. “And why would I not be jumping for joy on a day where I get to attend a party and have access to a buffet?”

“So you’re telling me that you and the rest of the palace staff have the night off? I don’t know. The ball really seems like an ‘all-hands-on-deck’ kind of event.”

“No one has the night off, young prince. Not even you. Still, as Master of the Household, I am afforded certain opportunities.”

“Ahhh, so even though you don’t technically have the night off, somehow you’ve been given the chance to enjoy the party along with all the guests. I hope my father is aware of your plans.”

“Enjoy is a strong word. As per the king’s orders, someone has to keep you in line tonight; however, it’s not a crime to enjoy some expensive cheese while I’m at it.”

Adrien sat up. “I thought it was Nathalie’s job to keep me in line.”

“The Grand Duchess will have other matters to attend to tonight, so His Majesty enlisted me to keep a watchful eye on his son,” Plagg grumbled.

“I’m guessing those other matters include wooing my father?”

“And comments like that are precisely why he’s asked me to keep an eye on you. He wants me to make sure that you are the perfect gentleman at the ball.”

“I am aware of how my father wants me to conduct myself tonight. Pray tell, since when have I not followed his rules?”

“Ever since you met that girl in the market a few months ago.”

He felt a swell of emotion rise in his chest. “What can I say? Falling in love with my lady changed me.”

“And your clandestine meeting created more work for the rest of us. How I long for the days where you would stay on the palace grounds and attend to your duties,” the servant said with a heavy sigh.

“You say that as if you don’t enjoy breaking the rules, as well. What happened to the man who helped me escape last week?”

“Today, that man is old, tired, and hungry.”

“You never cease to amaze me, Plagg. How can you be both chaotic and lazy at the same time? Teach me your ways.”

“Oh, trust me, you don’t need any lessons in rule-breaking. You’re doing fine all on your own.”

“Only because I learned from the best.”

“Flattery will get you nowhere, Your Highness.”

Adrien did his best to hold back a smile. “While that may be true, your old cloak gets me everywhere I need to go.”

“For the love of all that is good in this world, please refrain from disappearing tonight.” Plagg pinched the bridge of his nose. “I would like to enjoy my evening at the ball without actually worrying about you.”

“I only disappear when it’s absolutely necessary.”

“Necessary to see your lady friend?”

“Precisely! And she’s coming tonight, so I have no need to leave the palace. You will be able to enjoy your disgusting cheese in peace.”

The door flew open and thudded against the wall. “Good morning, Your Highness! Isn’t it a wonderful day.”

“Not while you’re around,” Plagg mumbled under his breath.

Adrien glared at the older man. “Would you stop that? Even though he’s being strangely formal with his greeting this morning, Nino is like a brother to me.”

“Trust me, young sire, my aching bones are fully aware of that fact. I know that he’s your partner in crime.”

Nino shot Adrien a worried look. “He knows? What did you tell him?”

“Where do you think I got the cloak?” Adrien shrugged.

“You’re telling me that you got the idea for Chat Noir from him?”

Plagg scoffed. “Excuse me, but long ago and far away, I was Chat Noir. This fledgling over here is my successor.”

Nino smiled, tipped his hat, and bowed. “Good show, sir. May I just say that the cat ears on the cloak are a nice touch.”

“My darling Tikki came up with that idea. She even sewed them on for me. It helped us through the dark times we experienced under the former king’s rule.”

“Are you telling us that life is better with King Gabriel seated on the throne? Goodness, you have some low standards, old man,” Nino chuckled.

“You know I could have you beheaded for talking that way about the king.” Adrien threw his legs over the side of the bed.

“You could, but then you’d lose the greatest Captain of the Guard this kingdom has ever seen.”

“I’m sure we could find some eager, young recruit who would be up to the task.”

“But he wouldn’t be your best friend.”

Adrien stood up. “You’ve got me there.”

“All jokes aside, are you ready for tonight?” Nino asked with a grin.

“Surely you jest?” Plagg laughed, “He won’t stop talking about his ‘foolproof’ plan. That’s why he’s so tired this morning. He was up all night making sure everything was...oh, how did he put it? Purr-fect.”

“Wow,” Nino shook his head, “You’re really taking on that Chat Noir persona with gusto, aren’t you?”

He shook his head. “That’s just it, my friend. I think Chat Noir is who I’ve always been. When I put on the mask and cloak, I feel like I can finally be myself. I’m no longer Prince Adrien. I’m just...well, I’m just Adrien.”

“Doesn’t change the fact that you are a prince.”

“Yes, but for a moment, I’m free to live my life as if I’m not. People treat me differently. They see past the jewels and title.”

“It’s not like anyone would know that you’re the prince anyway. You haven’t been paraded around in public since your mother died, and that was years ago. No one would recognize you.”

“Still, one can never be too careful.”

“With your dad around, I can’t argue with that.”

“Yes, especially with how unreasonable he’s been as of late.”

“He’s always unreasonable, but I agree. I can’t believe he reacted like that when you told him about the girl you met.”

“Well, I did meet her when I snuck out, and I know that he isn’t pleased about that. Unfortunately, I also know that he’s doing everything in his power to keep me from the love of my life. He wants me to marry a princess, but why can’t he see that my lady is royalty in my eyes. She would make an excellent queen one day.”

“Is that why he turned this event into a masquerade at the last minute?”

“Yes, and even though everyone will be wearing masks tonight, I will recognize my lady. Our love will help us find each other,” Adrien declared confidently.

“That and the dress you secretly commissioned Tikki to make for your lady friend,” Plagg noted.

Nino released a heavy sigh. “That was you? You’re the reason I haven’t seen Alya in a week? She and Tikki have been working on that gown day and night. Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Because the fewer people who knew the better.” Adrien hung his head. “You’ve been an amazing friend. You kept my escapades as Chat Noir a secret, and I didn’t want my crazy plan to outsmart my father to further jeopardize your position as Captain of the Guard.”

“You know I’d do anything for you. I consider you a part of my family.”

“I know, but contrary to popular belief, I’d like to actually keep you around.”

“I guess that’s good to hear. Thank you, brother.”

“Speaking of the wonderful Alya, I hope that she’s excited for tonight.”

“Honestly, she was surprised that she even got an invitation. Alya told me that while she was living in King André and Queen Audrey’s kingdom, they would have fabulous parties in which they never invited the ‘common folk’.”

“Alya is anything but common.”

Nino clapped his hand on Adrien’s shoulder. “You don’t have to tell me twice. I think I’m going to ask for her hand in marriage tonight.”

“Truly?” Adrien embraced his friend. “Congratulations. You are a lucky man.”

Plagg cleared his throat. “May I remind you that breakfast starts in fifteen minutes? I doubt you want your father in a foul mood today.”

“My father never eats breakfast with me. He’ll never know if I’m late.”

“He’s already in the dining hall counting down the minutes until your arrival.”

“WHAT?”

Adrien ran to his closet and threw open the door. He tossed on a pair of tight black pants, a billowing white shirt, and a green vest with gold embroidery.

“Do I look presentable?” he asked while pulling on his black riding boots.

“How you are able to look like that minutes after waking up I’ll never know,” Nino chuckled.

“I will take that as a ‘yes’.”

Plagg pulled out a pocket watch. “Now, you have three minutes to get downstairs.”

After taking a glance at himself in the mirror on his wall, Adrien ran out of his bedroom and bounded down the stairs. He took a moment to slow his breathing and adjust his vest before quietly walking into the dining hall and taking a seat.

“You’re late,” King Gabriel said without looking up from the papers in his hands.

“I’m sorry, father.” Adrien carefully placed his napkin in his lap. “It won’t happen again.”

“See that it doesn’t. You’ve been late for a lot of things recently. Is there anything you wish to tell me? You’re still not sneaking out to see that girl, are you?”

“No, sir.”

“I see. Well, I hope that you are prepared for this evening’s festivities.”

“Yes, sir.”

“Good. Tonight’s event is very important for the future of our kingdom.”

“I am aware.”

“Also, I hope you are ready to announce who your future bride will be by the end of the night.”

Adrien choked on air. “Excuse me?”

King Gabriel put down the papers. “This ball is meant for you to choose a wife. I’ve invited plenty of royal families from neighboring kingdoms. Surely you’ll have no problem choosing someone suitable to rule by your side.”

“But father, we’ve never discussed anything like this. I thought tonight was merely a pre-coronation celebration.”

“It is, and at your coronation next week, you will have your future queen by your side.”

“Is this really necessary?”

“Yes, Adrien.” The king leaned forward. “Come this time next week, you will have been declared the crown prince of this kingdom. Our citizens need to know that the royal line of succession remains intact. Having a fiancée will ensure the people that you will have an heir one day.”

“But why only one night to choose?” Adrien did his best to stay composed. “This is not one of our traditions. Mother was not by your side at your coronation.”

“We live in a different world now. Things are not as they were when I was your age.”

“That’s because grandfather was still king.”

“You will not speak of that man in my presence!”

“And why not?”

Gabriel paused and took a deep breath before returning his attention to his son. “Why the sudden hesitation to marry? You seemed all too eager when you told me about the commoner you met in the market.”

Anger continued to boil in Adrien’s gut. “Is that what all of this is about? I know that’s why you turned this into a masquerade, but would you really rather see me miserable than to love someone beneath our status?”

“I would rather see you in a strong political alliance than throw away your greatest bargaining chip for a frivolous romance with some girl.”

“So, my heart is a bargaining chip?”

“No, your hand in marriage is.”

“I love her, father.”

“You don’t even know her name.”

“It never came up, and I plan on learning it tonight.”

“Love and politics do not go hand in hand.”

“Then why were you allowed to love my mother? Or was all of that a lie?”

Both he and his father locked eyes as a tense silence fell between them. After several uncomfortable minutes, a quiet cough caused Adrien to break his stare.

Nathalie sauntered across the room and took her place next to the king. “Pardon my intrusion, sire.”

His father’s lips curled into a disconcerting smile. “Ahh, good morning, Grand Duchess. I trust the preparations for tonight are nearly complete.”

“Indeed they are, Your Majesty; however, I came here to remind Adrien that he has his final suit fitting in ten minutes.”

“Just as well.” Gabriel redirected his attention to his son. “It would be impolite for you to be late for your appointment with the seamstress. It is not proper to make life unreasonably difficult for our staff.”

“You’re one to talk,” Adrien mumbled under his breath.

The king slammed his hand against the table. “I beg your pardon?”

Not wanting to apologize for his insubordination, Adrien turned his head and looked at the entranceway to the dining hall. Plagg stood silently in the threshold with Nino by his side. Seeing his support system reminded him of all that he had experienced as Chat Noir over the past several months.

He’d found freedom.

He’d found love.

He’d found a life.

And now his father was threatening to take all of it away. Adrien knew that he had to do everything in his power to find the right girl at the ball, and at that moment, he realized that his lady needed to be able to find him, as well.

A wave of confidence washed away the anger. “I don’t want to wear the white suit tonight. I want to wear black.”

“What did I say about making things difficult for the servants?” Gabriel seethed.

“I have a black suit.”

“Black is for funerals, Adrien. This is meant to be a joyous occasion.”

“Is it? I had no idea.”

“Excuse me?”

“May I interject, Your Majesty,” Plagg said, stepping into the room.

Gabriel looked at the servant. “Yes, please come in. Anything to help my son see reason.”

“Actually, I was going to suggest a compromise.”

“Oh, how very diplomatic, Plagg. My son could learn a thing or two from you.”

“Thank you, my lord. I noticed that tensions were running high, and I know that several royal families are staying here at the palace. I thought it might be important for our guests to see us looking calm and collected. Also, getting ourselves worked up now will do us no favors for our moods come this evening.”

“As per usual, you’re absolutely right. We shouldn’t let our emotions get the best of us. Let’s hear your suggestion.”

“What if the prince wore his blue suit? He looked rather becoming in it at your birthday dinner last month.”

“If I recall things correctly, that suit had a tear on the sleeve.”

“Yes, Your Highness, but our seamstress could mend it in a matter of minutes.”

Gabriel tapped his chin. “Very well. Have one of the maids fetch my son’s blue suit and bring it to Tikki.”

“I shall bring it to her myself.” Plagg bowed and exited the room.

The king turned towards Adrien. “As for you, I expect your best behavior tonight. There will be serious consequences if I find that you are rude to our guests.”

Every muscle in his body felt tense. “I would never be rude to our guests. They have done nothing wrong. However, don’t expect me to fall in love with anyone new tonight.”

“Let’s just see what happens at the ball.”

“Yes, let’s.”

“You may take your leave now, Adrien. You don’t want to keep Tikki waiting.” Gabriel dismissed him with a wave of his hand.

“I will see you at the ball, father.” Adrien stood, bowed, and exited the room.

When he turned the corner and began walking down the long corridor towards Tikki’s chambers, Nino grabbed him by the arm, stopping him in his tracks.

“What was that?” his friend hissed through gritted teeth, “I’ve never seen you talk to your father that way? I’m all for thwarting his evil plans behind his back, but do you really think that was wise? This isn’t like you.”

Adrien pulled his arm out of Nino’s grip and continued walking towards his destination. “I’m tired of not being heard.”

“You will have plenty of time to be heard when you are king.”

“Yes, but forcing me to choose a bride tonight is his way of making sure that he’s able to maintain some control even when I am the king. He’s setting up political alliances, and if my father gets his way, I’ll always be his puppet. This morning proved to me that I’m merely a pawn in whatever sick game he’s been playing behind the scenes, and I’ll have no more of it.”

“Are you insinuating that your father is actually up to something nefarious? I was kidding about the whole ‘evil plan’ thing before.”

“Honestly, I’ve had my suspicions for a while, but this confirms it for me. He obviously doesn’t care about my happiness, so I don’t care what his plans are. He had my mother; therefore, I am well within my rights to marry for love. I will find my lady tonight, and if she’ll have me, I will ask her to be my bride.”

“Then it’s a good thing that dress is almost complete,” Plagg chuckled as Adrien entered Tikki’s room.

Relief washed over him. “It is?”

“Indeed, Your Highness,” Tikki replied cheerfully, “I just have to finish sewing on the beading. Would you like to see it?”

“Yes, please.”

“Come with me.”

The seamstress motioned for Adrien to follow, and he happily obliged. She led him into a large storage space filled with dozens of dress forms, but a floor-length ball gown made of shiny red satin immediately caught his eye. Intricate beading glittered in the closet’s dim light and covered the dress’s bodice with swirling patterns. The sleeves draped delicately off the mannequin’s shoulders and met in the middle to create a sweetheart neckline.

“Tikki.” Adrien ran his fingers along the smooth fabric on the skirt. “You and Alya did an amazing job. My lady will love the dress.”

The older woman smiled. ‘I’m happy you like it, Your Highness.”

“I love it.”

“Did you tell your lady friend what to say to my apprentice when she goes to retrieve it from the shop?”

“Yes, I spoke with her last night. She knows to tell Alya that the dress is from Chat Noir. I also gave her the pink rose and told her to use it as payment.”

“And I will make sure that her invitation is with the dress when she comes to pick it up.”

“Excellent.”

“Everything's in order. You have nothing to worry about, Your Highness. Now, shoo! I must finish this dress and have it sent into town!”

“Thank you, Tikki!”Adrien laughed, backed out of the storage closet, and bumped into Nino.

“Hey!” Nino exclaimed, rubbing his arm.

“Sorry. I was too busy trying to memorize how that dress looked.”

“I’ll let it slide this time.”

“Thank you.”

“So, was it all you hoped it would be?”

“It’s a stunning gown, and I’ll have no trouble recognizing my lady...as long as she’s the one wearing it. What if this doesn’t work? What if something goes wrong? Now that my father wants me to choose a bride tonight, there’s so much more at stake.”

Nino put his hands on Adrien’s shoulders. “Breathe, my friend. That dress is only meant to be one way for you to recognize your lady. Surely there are other things that you can use to confirm her identity.”

“You’re right.” Adrien nodded. “I would know my lady anywhere. I have a whole list of things that I can use to make sure that I’m dancing with the right girl tonight.”

“Well, it’s time for your fencing lesson. You can tell me all about your list on the way there.”

Adrien felt some of his nervousness melt away. “Excellent! First, let me tell you about her eyes.”

“Something tells me that it’s going to be a long day,” Nino groaned.

“Oh, just wait until I tell you about the song I heard in a dream! When I sang it for her, she kissed me!”

“How many more things are on your list, Adrien?”

“I’m just getting started, Nino, and I’ve got all day until the ball begins!”

Over the next few hours, Adrien went to his fencing lesson, talked with his best friend, gave the musicians the sheet music for the song he’d sung for his lady, attended to an array of princely duties, and got ready for the ball. Once he was dressed in his navy blue suit, he fastened his mask to his face with a ribbon and placed a silver crown on his head. He then made his way to the ballroom.

Once inside, Adrien kept his eyes glued on the door. He was vaguely aware of the crowds of people and lively music that swirled around him, but the only thing he could hear was the sound of his heart pounding against his eardrums. His anxiousness grew with each passing thump.

“Are you okay, brother?” Nino asked, tapping him on the shoulder, “You look like you’re about to pass out.”

He wiped his hands against his pants. “No, I’m not okay. She’s not here yet. I fear something may have happened to her.”

“Well, Alya took the dress to Tikki’s shop a few hours ago, and your lady friend is probably still getting ready.”

“What if my lady forgot what to say to Alya? What if Alya doesn’t believe that my lady is the one who was meant to wear the dress? What if…”

Nino cut him off, “I’m sure everything will work out. If something happened with the dress, you have plenty of other ways to make sure that you pick the right girl. Remember?”

Adrien nodded. “Yes, my lady is much more than the dress she’ll put on tonight. I will be able to recognize her.”

“Exactly! You have the song that you heard in the dream.”

“And there’s the color of her eyes and her love of pink.”

“By the end of tonight, you will know your lady’s name, and she will be your future bride.”

“Only if she says yes.”

“If she’s anything like she is in the stories you’ve told me, you don’t have anything to worry about. It sounds like she’s pretty enamored with you, as well,” Nino laughed.

“I hope so.” Adrien took a deep breath. “Otherwise this is going to be an awkward night.”

The doors at the top of the stairs swung open, and Adrien’s knees went weak when he saw a guest who was wearing his commissioned dress appear on the balcony. Time stood still as the raven-haired woman floated down the stairs and across the room. He thought he was going to pass out when she finally stopped in front of him.

The woman curtsied. “Good evening, Your Highness.”

His gaze remained transfixed on the woman. “Good evening, my…”

Everything inside of Adrien stopped when their eyes met. Behind the red and gold mask that covered the top half of her face, he was met with two shining, brown irises, not the bright ocean blue he’d been expecting,

“Are you alright?” she asked with worry lacing her voice, “Do you feel unwell?”

He shook his head and fought back tears that had begun to pool in his eyes. “My most sincere apologies, miss. I mistook you for someone else.”

“Well, I’m afraid you and I have never met. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Princess Kagami Tsurugi.”

“Ahhhh, yes. I remember my father mentioning that you and your mother were coming to stay with us. I apologize for not coming to see you when you arrived. Are you enjoying your visit to our kingdom?”

“I am! I even met someone who is supposed to be working here tonight. I fear that I may have promised to spend the evening with him, and I didn’t really plan on dancing with you. I hope you’re not upset. I know my mother is. She likes it when I follow the rules and spending the night with a commoner definitely goes against her rules.”

“I completely understand. My father isn’t too happy with me right now either.” Adrien took both of Kagami’s hands in his own and chuckled. “Trust me when I say that I’m not offended, princess. As long as we’re both being honest, I wasn’t really planning on dancing with you either. I’m still waiting for someone to arrive.”

“Is that so?”

“Yes, a girl.”

“Is she also a commoner?”

“Yes.”

“And that is why your father is angry.”

“He doesn’t want me to marry beneath my status.”

“Then we live very similar lives.”

“It appears that way.” Adrien paused before continuing. “Also, I don’t know how or why, but you’re wearing her dress.”

“I am? Is that why you thought I was someone else?” Kagami cocked her head to the side. “Did you think I was her?”

“I did. May I inquire as to how you obtained the gown?”

“The Grand Duchess brought it to my room this afternoon.”

“Nathalie?”

“I believe that was her name, yes.”

Adrien turned to Nino. “Now do you see what I mean about my father? He has to be up to something.”

“Is it bad for me to say that I’m not surprised?” Nino asked, shaking his head.

“Not at all. I’ve come to expect this kind of nonsense from him over the past few months.”

“Well, brother, tonight is not the night to be thinking about your father. Right now, we need to focus on finding your lady.”

“Is there anything I can do to help?” Kagami looked between both boys.

Adrien sighed. “I’m not sure. Right now my lady is without a dress and an invitation. There’s no way for her to get into the palace, and I have no idea where she is right now.”

Nino rubbed his chin. “We could always check her house.”

“I can’t just leave.” Adrien pointed to the balcony overlooking the dancefloor. “My father is quite literally watching my every move, and I don’t want Plagg to get in trouble. Remember, he’s supposed to be ‘watching’ me.”

“Then, let’s just wait for Alya. I’m sure she could help us come up with something.”

“Are you two talking about me behind my back?” Alya laughed, entering the conversation.

“Perfect timing, as always, my love,” Nino leaned over and kissed Alya on the cheek.

“Yeah, yeah. Enough sweet talk. I have to tell you two about the night I had.” She turned to look at Kagami. “Or should I say three of you?”

Adrien scratched the back of his head. “We’re having an interesting night, as well.”

“Considering that’s the red dress that made me age ten years in two hours, I’m guessing that you know part of what I’m about to tell you.”

“We don’t know much. Princess Kagami just told us that Nathalie brought the dress to her room this afternoon.”

“Wait,” Alya turned to the woman in the dress, “you’re Kagami? My best friend told me all about you.”

“Oh, you must be Alya.” Kagami clasped her hands in front of her. “She told me all about you, as well. I was hoping to meet you here tonight.”

“She told me that she introduced you to Luka.”

“Yes, I did get the chance to meet him.”

“I also heard that you two kissed by the fountain last night.”

Kagami smirked. “A princess never kisses and tells.”

Alya chuckled. “I can see why she likes you. I’m sure she’d be happy to know that you’re the one who accidentally received her dress.”

“Hold on.” Adrien held up his hand. “Are you telling me that your best friend is the person who was supposed to get this dress? You know my lady?”

“Your lady? There’s only one person who calls her that. Wait...you’re Chat Noir?” Alya pointed an accusatory finger in his direction. “You’re the masked gentleman who’s visited my best friend almost every single night for the past three months?”

“Guilty as charged.”

“So, that means that you’re the one who commissioned the dress?”

“Yes, and I’m desperate to know what happened.”

Alya nodded. “Of course. Umm...let’s see, Tikki sent me into town with the dress once it was completed. I waited for about an hour, and the Grand Duchess told me that the dress was from Chat Noir, and she gave me a pink rose as payment. Tikki told me that the person who did those two things was the rightful owner of the dress, so I gave it to her.”

“And what about my lady?”

“You keep calling her ‘your lady’. Do you not know her name?”

“If we’re being fair, she doesn’t know mine, and I plan on asking her what it is once I find her. Right now you’re the only one who can help us.”

“Point taken. Well, when she came into the shop, she also said the right words and tried to give me the rose, and that’s when I knew that there had been a terrible mistake. I was about to give her my dress and invitation when Tikki arrived and saved the day. All the dresses in the shop had been cleared out, so I don’t know where Tikki found the one that she gave her.”

Adrien breathed a sigh of relief. “So, she did get a dress?”

“Yes,” Alya replied with a reassuring smile, “And Tikki gave her an invitation.”

“Do you know where she is now?”

The doors once again swung open, revealing another raven-haired woman; however, unlike Kagami, this guest wore a pale pink ball gown with a skirt that billowed behind her. Her arms hugged the form-fitting bodice of her dress as she scanned the room from behind a matching mask. When her eyes locked with Adrien’s, she offered him a tiny wave and beamed. He returned the gesture, and she gracefully descended the stairs. All the air left his lungs when she began to walk towards him.

“It’s her,” he whispered.

Alya placed a hand on his shoulder. “It is, and it’s time for the three of us to leave you two alone.”

“I’ll go ask Luka to play the song we gave him earlier today.” Nino then turned to Kagami. “Come, Your Highness. I will show you where the musicians are.”

“That would be greatly appreciated,” Kagami said with a smile, “Good luck, Prince Adrien.”

“Mmmhmm,” he said absentmindedly, “Thanks."

Even as the trio walked away, his eyes remained glued to the woman who was slowly making her way across the room. He desperately wanted to run through the crowd, sweep her off her feet, and hold her close, but he knew that his father was still watching; therefore, he made the difficult decision to hold his position.

She quickened her pace the last few feet, crashed into him, and pulled him into a tight embrace. “I’m so happy to see you, Chaton. You’ll never believe the night I’ve had.”

Adrien wrapped his arms around her and felt fully at peace for the first time that night. “Good evening, my lady. Words cannot describe how overjoyed I am that you are finally here.”

“I apologize for not wearing the dress you got me, but there was a little mix-up at the shop.”

“I heard, and I don’t care. All that matters is that you are here and that you are safe.”

“But how did you know that it was me?”

“I could see your beautiful blue eyes from across the room.”

“Really?”

“Yes, and considering the number of times I’ve gotten lost in your eyes, I would recognize them anywhere.”

“Stop! You’re going to make me blush. How do you always manage to say the most wonderful things?”

“My words come straight from the heart when I’m with you.”

“And why is that?”

“Because you bring out the best in me.”

Her cheeks grew red as she pulled away from the embrace and tapped him on the nose. “Alright, kitty-cat, am I supposed to listen to your sweet talk all night, or are we going to dance?”

He took one of her hands, raised it to his lips, and kissed it. “I am ready to do whatever the lady wishes.”

Adrien’s gesture sent her into a fit of giggles that came to an abrupt halt. “Is that a crown?”

“This is it,” his mind reassured him, “Now’s your chance to tell her who you really are.”

“Yes,” he stated with as much confidence as he could muster.

“Oh.” She visibly swallowed. “Is it part of your masquerade costume or are you wearing it for another reason?”

“I wear it every day. My father would be very upset if I took it off. He’s been watching me all night, so he would know if I did.”

“Your father?”

Adrien pointed to the lofted space where his father and several other dignitaries sat with stone-faced expressions. When she turned her head to look, Adrien watched her hands clench the fabric on her skirt.

“My lady?” he asked tentatively, “How are you feeling?”

“I’m f-fine,” she squeaked, “Is your father the one sitting on the throne?”

“Yes.”

She spun around and faced him. “You’re Prince Adrien?”

His heart sank at the sight of tears shining in her eyes. “I am.”

“Your Highness,” she said quickly, curtsying low, “I am not worthy to stand in your presence. I apologize for my inappropriate behavior. I’ll take my leave.”

“Wait!” He reached out and gently grabbed her hand, “Are you leaving because my title makes you nervous, or are you leaving because you don’t want to be with me anymore?”

“I want to be with you more than anything. My heart aches when you leave me each night.”

“Then stay. Please.”

“I’m not royalty.”

“You could be.”

“I’m just a baker’s daughter. I’m not special.”

Adrien leaned in. “Yes, you are. You’re purr-fect.”

She laughed and wiped a stray tear with the back of her hand. “You really are my Chaton, aren’t you?”

“I am. This is why I didn’t tell you that I was the prince. I wanted you to get to know me without all of the distractions that come with the crown. Can you forgive me?”

“There’s nothing to forgive.”

“You’re not angry?”

“No,” she shook her head, “I understand. Your instincts were right. I probably would have run away from you if I had known the truth.”

He took her hands. “Are you going to run away now?”

“Now why would I go and do something like that? You still haven’t given me that dance you promised.”

“Is that so?”

The song being played by the musicians faded away, and the lilting sound of a familiar melody began to resonate throughout the ballroom. Adrien took his lady’s hands and gave them a gentle squeeze.

“Is that what I think it is?” Her voice was laced with disbelief.

Adrien nodded. “It is.”

“I thought you said that you heard that song in a dream.”

“I did, and it plays in my head every time I think of you. It was driving me insane, and I finally had to write it down after a few days. I gave the sheet music to Luka, and Nino just asked him to play it.”

“Does this mean that I finally get to dance with you?”

“Yes, my lady.”

He pulled her close and placed one of his hands on her waist. She rested her free hand on his shoulder, and they began to glide across the floor. For a moment, everything else in the room melted away, and the only thing left was the incredible woman in his arms.

All too soon, the song ended and the rest of the world came crashing back into focus. He became painfully aware of his father’s overbearing glare, and his brain desperately searched for a way to be alone with his lady.

“It’s getting kind of warm in here,” Adrien mumbled, tugging at his collar.

“Perhaps we could go outside?” she shrugged.

“That’s a wonderful idea. I can show you the palace gardens.” He held out his arm for her to take.

She smiled and linked her arm with his, and he quickly escorted her out of the ballroom, down the hall, and through a set of doors that led to the gardens. They walked in a comfortable silence until they reached a quiet corner that was hidden by a willow tree in full bloom. Within the tiny space, there was a white gazebo and dozens of rose bushes.

“They’re all pink.” She reached out and touched the petals of a rose in full bloom.

Adrien felt a pang of sadness shoot through his heart. “This was my mother’s favorite spot. She planted all of the bushes here. When I was younger, we’d sit inside the gazebo, and she’d read me all kinds of stories.”

“That’s a beautiful memory. Thank you for showing me this place.”

“She would have loved you. Probably almost as much as I do.”

He heard her breath catch. “What did you say?”

“I think I may have just told you that I love you,” he chuckled.

“You’ve never said that to me before.”

“I mean it, my lady. I love you with all that I am.”

“But you’re the prince, and I’m just a commoner.”

“That doesn’t change how I feel about you.”

“What does that mean for us then?”

“It means that I want us to be together.”

“Your father wouldn’t approve.”

“I don’t care what my father thinks. He’s not going to be king forever.”

“Okay.” She walked into the gazebo and sat down on a bench. “Let’s say we do begin courting. Then what would happen? It’s not like we could have a normal relationship.”

Adrien took a seat next to her. “My lady, our relationship thus far has been anything but normal.”

“True, but still! How would this even work?”

“Well, by the end of the ball, I am expected to choose a bride. If you’ll have me, when we go back inside, I will declare you as my future wife. Then you will stand by my side at my coronation next week, and in a year’s time we’ll be wed.”

“You want me to marry you?”

“More than anything in this world. You’re already a princess in my eyes, why not make it official?”

“A princess?”

“Yes, the wife of the crown prince becomes a princess. Then, when I become king, you would become my queen.”

“Queen?”

“My lady, you are the most incredible person I’ve ever met. Even in the face of great hardship, you manage to stay positive and selfless. You have the kindest heart and the quickest mind. This kingdom would be lucky to have you as it’s queen. You make my life better and brighter, and I would love nothing more than to spend the rest of my life with you. I love you.”

She smiled and choked back a sob. “I love you, too.”

“Are those happy tears?” Using his thumb, Adrien wiped the wetness off of one of her cheeks.

“Yes.” She nodded into his hand. “They’re very happy tears. I love you, too.”

He laughed, took her hands, and got down on one knee. “In that case, my beautiful lady, will you marry me?”

“Yes.” She pulled him to his feet and threw her arms around him. “A thousand times, yes!”

Adrien picked her up and spun her around, causing her to giggle. When he placed her back onto the ground, he kept her in his arms and rested his forehead against hers.

Without letting go, he pulled away. “There’s just one thing that you need to do before I can go back inside and tell my father that I made my decision.”

“Oh,” she said, looking up, “and what might that be?”

“I need you to tell your name.”

“My goodness, I never told you what it was, did I?”

“No, you didn’t. You didn’t want to tell me what it was during our first meeting, and I didn’t want to upset you by asking again.”

“You should have said something! I feel so silly now.”

“Don’t, my lady. We had an interesting start to our relationship. We both chose not to disclose our names, so it makes sense why you would choose to keep something like that to yourself.”

“I just got so used to hearing you call me ‘your lady’, that I forgot to tell you.”

She let go of his hands, took a step back, untied the ribbon holding her mask in place, and smiled. “My name is Marinette.”

Joy flooded his body and his mind began to spin. Her name sounded like the sweetest symphony. Adrien felt himself falling in love with her all over again. Everything made sense. His lady was Marinette, and all was right with the world.

Then, everything faded to black.

***

Adrien’s eyes flicked open. His heart was racing and he gasped for air. His mind scrambled to hold onto the memory of the dream that was slowly fading away.

“My lady is Marinette,” he whispered.

Plagg groaned. “Kid, why are you awake? It is three o’clock in the morning, and I thought I told you not to wake me up.”

“Ladybug is Marinette.”

“Finally.”

“Marinette is Ladybug.”

“Yes, we’ve already established that.”

“I’m not in love with two people.”

“Don’t tell me you’re going to be up for the rest of the night talking about this.”

“How can I sleep at a time like this?”

“Just close your eyes or something,” Plagg grumbled, “You can finish having your existential crisis in the morning.”

He turned away from his Kwami and let his mind race. “She was right next to me the entire time.”

Adrien grabbed his phone, tapped the screen, and pulled up a new browser. He only had eighteen hours to figure out how to tell Ladybug that he knew who she was. And right now, all he could do was hope that she wanted to know his identity, as well.

And he could also buy flowers. Lots and lots of flowers.

[adoptapet]

Simple Method To Stop Your Dog From Begging For Food

If you really want to stop your dog from begging for food, you're going to need to learn to refrain from giving in to his begging every time there is food around.

It is not a secret as to the reason why a dog begs, well, it is because they would like food as soon as you have food anywhere near you or as soon as you go in the kitchen.

Begging isn't disrespectful or weird to your puppy; it's instinctive, so it takes a great deal of consistency to reverse that behavior if we've been reinforcing it. This begging "attitude" began a long time ago with the dog's descendants. With time, this became instinctive to wolves which carried over to dogs through their DNA.

Our dogs are hard-wired to seek opportunities to get food from us and given that they're observant they quickly grasp that begging brings about payoffs when we respond to all these signals that they have gained mastery so well over time.

It is one of the most common complaints of pet owners, however, there is hope. You can keep your pet dog from your food while your dining, you just have to be persistent.

- How Can I Stop My Dog From Begging?

The initial step when teaching your dog not to beg is to make a pledge to yourself which is to stop submitting. Every time you offer your puppy a treat from the table it's teaching them that begging is a winning action. It may perhaps not work all the time, but our dogs have excellent memories; they'll maintain trying if they figured out it did the job anytime before

Dogs beg more when we're looking at them; they know it works. Those big puppy dog eyes and all that whining-- it works really well on all of us.

If you want your dog to stop begging you have to ensure that you're not giving him mixed signals. It is not reasonable to expect good behavior from our puppies if we ourselves don't remain consistent.

Training ourselves as being constant is usually the most challenging part, the rest is relatively simple. Here are 3 methods that will definitely help you stop your dog from begging.

1- Pay no attention to Your Dog's Begging

Don't look at your puppy while he begs. Just ignore him.

Whenever your dog starts his routine of begging for food you have to totally pay no attention to the disruptive behavior. Should he get a scrap from you one single time he realizes that his time and efforts might just pay off next time.

If you look into those big eyes when he's begging you can feel bad for him and offer him a morsel. Almost any attention you give him when he's begging might make him believe you're close to giving him some food given that it's done the job so well previously.

He will most likely fuss and resist if he's a prolific beggar, nevertheless, you are going to have to learn to pay no attention to it. Your pet dog should eventually figure out that "hey, I think that's not going to do the job anymore."

Don't associate food together with love. Your puppy is certainly not starving. You nourish him very well every morning and evening. Over 50% of American dogs are generally too heavy, your puppy doesn't need to have any extras. If you still feel bad just keep in mind-- he's manipulating you.

Pet dogs have developed to getting those big sad eyes and floppy ears for merely that reason, to maneuver you into caring for them. They've evolved more puppy-like features and tend to share plenty of attributes of wolf puppies rather than adult wolves.

2- Limit Your Dog From the Dinner Table

Among the easiest solutions to stop your from begging is by preventing the behavior early on. You may do this by separating your pet dog from the dinner table.

You can educate your dog to lay down away from where you are eating, or you can make use of a baby gate to retain them in a different area. If your dog is already a beggar keep in mind that his behavior is most likely going to be fairly resistant for a little bit before it improves, but the consistency will ultimately pay off.

Have your dog lay down in his bed or specific space you've picked for him, compliment him as soon as he lays down and give him some treats within this spot. Depending on his stay command you might possibly need to work at this for some time before he's continually remaining in his new spot.

After you've eaten visit him and give him lots of praise, give him treats. Let him know the behavior of sitting steadily while the family members eat is just what's going to generate the most desired compensation.

If you don't believe your puppy is going to be able to stay for any period of time or you don't have a decent stay command mastered you can prefer to separate him with a barricade such as a baby gate, a very common selection.

3- Redirect His Focus While You Eat

Give your pet dog something else to concentrate on while you eat. If you don't wish your dog to stay completely separated from you while you eat you may redirect his focus to some snacks, toys, or treats of his own. Offer him one of his popular bully sticks, or jam some peanut butter inside of a Kong.

Ignore him if he gets up from his treat to beg. He is going to most likely do this for a while if he's used to begging. Just as long as you don't give in and nourish him from the table at all he will eventually understand that his begging abilities aren't going to pay off anymore.

If you're consistent and decide to persevere begging could be considerably quick and easy to deal with. It merely takes determination and consistency. You need all of the household engaged; if any member is not going to play along and gives up you are definitely not going to be successful.

You simply cannot surrender, regardless of how adorable he is actually or what sounds your puppy is producing, it will set you back to square one.

Click Here to Learn Most Effective Dog Training Programs: https://bit.ly/3rl4ou1

[passionate-reply]

FRANK TOVEY - “SAM HALL”

Best known under the alias “Fad Gadget,” Frank Tovey eventually abandoned his industrial roots to pursue a more mainstream-sounding synth pop sound, and eventually, towards the tail end of the 1980s, became very interested in folk music! If you’re anything like me, this will, at first, seem surprising, and largely unrelated to the prior era of his career, but I’d actually argue that there’s more of a lineage here than you might think. What is industrial music if not the cry of the blue-collar labourer, expressed in the media with which he is most familiar? I think you’ll find more commonalities between “Which Side Are You On?” and “Penthouse and Pavement” than you will differences. Even the call-and-response structuring of the latter is rather folkish if you think about it. And, hey, haven’t Laibach made a name for themselves doing industrial covers of folk melodies?

Anyway, while there’s a lot of scholarship on “Sam Hall” itself, as a traditional song, most analyses--even relatively exhaustive ones--seem to leave Tovey out of the equation for some reason, opting instead to focus on household names like Johnny Cash. But I would also argue that Tovey’s version of the song is both enjoyable and noteworthy, in a vacuum. There are many variations on the song, and of course which ones the artist interpreting it chooses can alter the thrust of it quite a bit. Tovey has chosen to present the titular character as less of a noble figure with justifiable reasons for his crimes, or having committed crimes against property. His well-timed “F bomb” here is a strong choice that underscores the crass defiance he gives the character of Hall. But something he does that’s especially very unique is his switch to a plaintive, sparse, and slower-paced verse as he describes Hall’s final ascent to the gallows, emphasizing the line, “that’s no joke”...we are very much set up to think that things are really “getting real” for our protagonist. But then again, Tovey’s return to the hooky refrain once more at the end undercuts all of that, giving his interpretation of the song a marvelous complexity.

[colossalbeltloop-art]

Would you change something about the way Gabriel & Nathalie's relationship is portrayed in canon?

Oooohhhhhh, there’s so many layers to this. But I’ll try to abridge it and list it.

1. I really, REALLY want to see a moment where Gabriel overhears Nathalie speaking to Adrien in his room. He doesn’t understand why, but is compelled to take a peek. Something about the softness in her voice maybe; because it’s kinda rare– and it intrigues him more than he would like to admit. And just at the threshold, he gets to witness a sweet, simple moment between a pupil and her student/son. Nathalie is candid but kind. Adrien is receptive. And happy. He doesn’t look lonely, bitter or withdrawn. He has respect and love in his eyes for this person who, quite frankly, has long been a mother figure to him, and has vouched for him on multiple occasions at her own detriment. Adrien overflows with gratitude.And by God, let me get my hug between these two.

-And I want it all to have a real effect on Gabriel. He steps away, maybe hunkers down in his room instead of his office for once; where his heart has to cope with this shakeup. Even if you don’t sympathize with Gabriel, part of what will make the conflict more interesting and compelling is if he truly struggled with it. And I mean struggle mentally and psychologically. Not akumatizing the Pigeon Man 25 times or some dumb shit like that.

2. Exploring what is in Nathalie’s head.

-So first and foremost, I want to emphasize the fact that Nathalie does indeed live at the Agreste mansion. Unless governess rules have changed, she most definitely lives there, because that’s part of her job. She’s a governess. Historically, a governess was a young woman in a very awkward position. They’re not servants, and they’re not family. They don’t reside in servants quarters, and they definitely don’t reside anywhere near the main family. It was common for them to be outright despised by the wife of the household because unconsciously or not, real or not, the governess seemed to impose an invisible threat to the husband. A governesses only escape was saving enough money to get another job, and/or get married.

-This is all sounding like an interesting recipe for disaster, isn’t it? Especially as it pertains to this show.

-Nathalie’s problems are obviously much worse than just the job position itself. She’s a governess in love a man hellbent on bringing his wife back.

-Plus, it would be so great to see one, just one moment where she’s in her room, contemplating this. She’s both in a setting and state of attire we’ve never seen before. It’s night. She’s sitting at her desk, hair falling over her shoulders, staring blankly at a pile of letters from a single concerned family member; because the others have given up on her or don’t care. She doesn’t care either. At least she thinks she doesn’t, as her main concern is the family she’s currently with.

-And she understands that she’s just as crazy as Gabriel for being in love with him, as he is for trying to revive his wife.

But that’s why they’re made for each other.

3.The little things. The little interactions/reactions/moments.

-I know how budget animation works. You can’t always get what you want, in fact, you rarely do. It’s often a monumental achievement to use up precious seconds to address a character interaction, unless it is directly plot related.

-Said moment is always fought for by the storyboard artist doing his or her darnedest to get that shot approved, but they can only do so much. The first gatekeeper being their supervisor, then the directer, and after that, a whole myriad of producers. If it doesn’t make the cut, it’s not from a lack of effort. At the end of the day, Netflix is the final boss.

-In other words…as a nondescript audience member, I’m asking for the near impossible. Gabriel and Nathalie aren’t the main focus of the show, even though they are one of the main driving forces of it. Still, asking for more complicated, nuanced interactions that aren’t plot driven will be rare.

-With that said, we have a few things in our favor. It’s easier to write romance for adults than awkward, derpy kids. The tension between Gabriel and Nathalie is more interesting and impactful than blushing, shuffling teenagers. And finally, Gabriel and Nathalie have a history that lends itself to romantic tension more than the silly kids. Seriously, what other direction can their relationship go but up? If Gabriel backtracks, it would conflict with these other characters vying for main antagonist and would muddy the water. I think EVERYONE is tired of Gabriel being the main baddie. We know Nathalie is.

4. Maybe I should actually get around to answering your question more directly lol

-Gabriel having a moment of quiet concern for Nathalie as a whole, not just a panic reaction from a cough. As selfish as Gabriel is, it would do his character good, and quite frankly, be pretty damn realistic for there to be at least one reason for altruism on his part. He’s getting there gradually, judging by his concern and “sacrifices” for Nathalie in the last three eps. It needs a healthy boost though, keep it goin’.

-I want there to be at least one really contentious moment where they have an intense stare down. It’s obviously an issue involving Adrien, because there’s no other reason Nathalie would ever challenge Gabriel. In this case, she’d be uncharacteristically firm, more than the last few times, but dammit, Adrien is worth the battle with Gabriel.

-Nathalie reasoning with him while adjusting his collar or something. Perhaps this is where we have a ‘soft stare down’. I need this.

-Gabriel crowding Nathalie and brushing up against her and putting a hand on her. It’s pure instinct. He does it naturally. He doesn’t realize how much comfort it brings him until he has to refrain from doing it because guests are around.

-I really want it to get to the point where you really don’t see one without the other. Whenever you see Nathalie, Gabriel is trailing her– and vice versa. Even outside or other areas of the house we haven’t seen yet. It just becomes one of those subtle things that starts to become more obvious as the episodes progress.

TLDR; Basically, I just want Gabriel and Nathalie to look and act more like a couple in effortless fashion, and Gabriel becomes a hot mess because he can’t fight it anymore. He starts to chill the fuck out and melt under her touch and presence. Nathalie– keen, excited, and desperately impatient enough to understand this, finally goes all in. And it tosses them headlong down a beautiful, vicious spiral that leads to love, but their problems are only beginning, as their risky behavior is observed by the wrong pair of disapproving eyes.

[kneebetty35]

Treatment Of Pensions On Divorce

Company Trustees

Content

Worker Pension Payments Dropped By 11% In 2020

Appointing An Independent Trustee.

Local Business To Obtain Coronavirus Insurance Payments After Landmark High Court Judgment.

Caitlin Jenkins, the familylawvlogger, discusses all points pension with her Mills & Reeve partner and pension expert, Philip Means. At Mills & Reeve we have unique experience and also experience in pension plans on divorce. Participants of the group were involved in educating the courts back in 2000 when pension sharing was first introduced as well as have actually been training various other legal representatives since. Most recently two of our attorneys were members of the multi-disciplinary Pensions Advisory Group which generated a record focused on boosting understanding as well as consistency in this highly complicated however vital location of family regulation. In a divorce, pensions are thought about together with the other monetary properties of the marriage. It's important to note that a separation by itself does not determine 'who obtains what' or who is entitled to the home, savings etc

Figuring out pension plans appropriately will generally imply the divorce procedure takes longer, but it is really vital for you in later life so that you prevent monetary challenge. It really will deserve spending time and money on this now to reduce the danger of monetary challenge when you are retired. you can just manage to discover money for a legal representative or a Pensions on Separation Professional, you will certainly need to choose whether that money will be ideal spent on obtaining assistance from the Pensions on Divorce Specialist or a legal representative. If you are unsure what to do, it would certainly be reasonable to get a little bit advice from a family lawyer first and see to it you mention what pensions you and your ex-spouse have. If there is a substantial age gap between you and also your ex-spouse then it is most likely you will require experienced aid to work out just how the pension plans need to be shared.

Employee Pension Contributions Dropped By 11% In 2020

It is a good idea to get independent economic guidance on picking a new pension scheme. Before you can make an application for an approval order to settle your financial agreement one of you needs to relate to the court for a divorce. The court can only check out your application for a permission order when you have actually reached the decree nisi phase of the divorce. If you are liquifying your civil partnership this order is called a conditional order. This takes a while so if you have not obtained a divorce yet, you require to begin there.

Trump faces loss of pensions and perks if removed from office - Nikkei Asia

Trump faces loss of pensions and perks if removed from office.

Posted: Mon, 11 Jan 2021 22:43:00 GMT [source]

However, the majority of pension service providers, unless they are public market pension schemes, will refrain this - instead they state you require to transfer it to a pension system of your very own. If you already have a pension system you might be able to obtain the money transferred to that pension plan, if it appropriates.

Assigning An Independent Trustee.

pension trustee Brighton is fair to say that pension sharing is one of the much less well-understood facets of matrimonial financial technique. A pension pot, built up over years as well as representing an ambition to a comfy retired life, can be really difficult to surrender, particularly in an acrimonious separation, despite prospective tax motivations to do so. pension trustee Bristol is informing that a claimed failure effectively to understand pension assets is the biggest resource of negligence insurance claims versus family members lawyers. This vlog takes a look at the things you require to think of if you are getting separated and also have a pension- what information do you require?

You need to only consider this choice if you make certain that you do not find on your own in any one of the situations set out in Stage 3 - working out if you require skilled aid. In those scenarios just utilizing the cash comparable evaluations will probably not cause a fair result. Normally try this product is only an appropriate approach if all the pension plans are Specified Contribution pension plans without included advantages in all and also it can be difficult to know if this is the situation you are in without getting guidance. It is really difficult to exercise what revenue you would in fact receive from a pension sharing order without obtaining a specialist to aid, regardless of the kind of pension plans included.

Local Business To Get Coronavirus Insurance Payouts After Landmark High Court Ruling.

The main aspect of the brand-new State Pension is not enabled to be shared. Any additional State Pension advantages such as SERPS or the Second State Pension can be divided shared on divorce or dissolution of a civil partnership via a pension sharing order. If a pension sharing order is granted, your extra State Pension might increase or decrease, relying on the Court's decision. If you're an ex-spouse of a member of Derbyshire Pension Fund you might be awarded a share of the pension advantages in case a pension sharing order is issued by the court.

Why Are New York’s State Pensions Fully Funded? Because They Have To Be - Forbes

Why Are New York’s State Pensions Fully Funded? Because They Have To Be.

Posted: Sat, 19 Dec 2020 08:00:00 GMT [source]

If you're going through the divorce procedure, then obtaining skilled recommendations on your pension split on separation is vital. We can assist you conserve time, anxiety as well as money when looking for to separate pension plans as well as other properties adhering to a divorce. Because of the way pension plans are concerned in financial process, you might not straight obtain any one of your ex-partner's pension; this will certainly be decided when you settle on how other money as well as possessions are to be split. Pension sharing order - this is an order that the court can make when a pair separation, which shares out your pension savings in between you. A pension sharing order tells the carriers of a pension fund to move a percent of the cash matching (anything up to 100%) to whichever among you is to take advantage of the order. One option is where the pension provider produces a pension for you within their scheme that is different from your ex lover's pension.

Similarly, an Earmarking Order can not be released if your pension benefits are currently subject to a Pension Sharing Order in respect of the marriage/civil collaboration. If you live in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, it is the worth of your pension benefits at the day of divorce or dissolution of the civil collaboration that is counted. If you reside in Scotland, it's the increase in the worth of your pension benefits over the course of the marital relationship or civil partnership that is counted. This implies that pension plans ought to be valued at the day of separation. If you get divorced, or dissolve a civil collaboration, the court will take your pension properties right into account when establishing any kind of negotiation. This means you may get a larger share of the family house, in return for your ex-partner keeping full share of their pension. Behind a residence, a pension is probably to be the greatest worth property a pair will share.

If you do not reach ₤ 40,000 in contributions, your extra allowance can be rollovered to the following tax year.

There is a limit to the amount of tax relief you can receive, though.

This suggests that as soon as your pension contributions reach ₤ 40,000 in the tax year, any type of additional settlements will be taxed at your greatest rate.

Office pension systems help employees save for their retired life and also are set up by a company or organisations.

Also, if you are the individual giving up a case to a share of a pension fund, you risk of being short of income in retirement. If you are the person keeping the pension, you might have difficulty in fulfilling your real estate requirements. The final option is countering the pension pot against various other financial properties. This is where you concur that one of you maintains their pension funds, or a larger share of the funds, in return for the various other having other assets or a larger share of them. So, for instance, if you are the parent with the primary care of the youngsters, you can maintain the household residence while your ex-spouse maintains the pension funds. This is one means of balancing the department of the assets in between you. The funding value exercised by the specialist can in some cases wind up being greater than the cash equivalent worth of the pension pot.

Giving The Complete Series Of Support & Services You Require

Take a look at the area calledMore aid as well as advicefor details of exactly how to find a lawyer who specialises in family legislation as well as in pensions particularly. Nonetheless, you need to approach offsetting with a lot of treatment. Contrasting the value of one pension fund with an additional or with various other kinds of assets is not straightforward.

You could think that this greater worth would certainly then be used to work out your or your ex lover's share however in fact only the cash comparable value can be shared when it concerns the pension sharing order. The expert's estimation of the resources value needs to be equated right into a figure which is a portion of the money comparable worth. As a result of this, this option is less common than choice one, where a specialist exercises exactly how to divide the pension pot to give you as well as your ex the very same income when you retire. Alternative 3 is to share the pensions utilizing a capital value that is different to the money equivalent value. Often a professional does this when there are Defined Advantage pension plans included and also where they are asked to by the individuals in the event or the court. Yet this choice can lead to unintentional consequences for both you and also your ex lover.

. The sharing of the possessions is determined individually, in an economic agreement or economic negotiation. We will certainly show how courts split possessions throughout a divorce, which can consider most pension civil liberties. We additionally show how offsetting, an attachment/earmarking order or a pension sharing order are used on separation. If you divorce, or liquify a civil collaboration, on or after 6 April 2016, it might be feasible to be given a pension sharing order over component of an ex-spouse's or companion's 'Protected Settlement'. This is any type of added State Pension benefits accumulated before 6 April 2016.

Do I get half of my husband's 401k in a divorce?

Under California law, your marital assets will be split 50/50. That, unfortunately, will likely include your 401(k). It's frustrating, I know, given that he didn't work. Just resist dipping into it for funds, as the tax penalties are punitive.

For extra on this have a look at our guide How to obtain a separation or finish a civil collaboration without the help of a lawyer. If you have concurred that you intend to share a pension, then you will certainly constantly have to obtain a permission order due to the fact that pensions can not be shared by exclusive arrangement. The pension provider needs to get an order from the court telling them to share the fund. It is generally far better if you can reach a contract together about how to share your properties, perhaps with the help and also recommendations of solicitors and/or a mediator. The section calledStage 7 - the following steps when you have an arrangement, or what to do if you can't agree explainsmore concerning this. If you do make a decision to exercise an agreement yourselves or with the aid of a moderator, it is reasonable to both take a bit of legal recommendations initially, to understand what you need to be aiming for.

[topnootropicsadvisor]

Does Neuriva work for memory?

Now that we have really gone over what ever you have to learn about the premier nootropics and sensible medicine out there, let's acquire an look at yet another thingMany have questions about protection and destructive outcomes before leaping into your extensive earth of nootropics. Alpha Brain. That is over acceptable. So Here is the deal: We have analyzed Every single solution on this record, together with suggesting numerous them to loved ones users - very best brain nutritional supplements.

Sensible drugs with minor to no facet success. Nevertheless, it is critical to note that each and each considered one of us has slightly distinctive chemistry (Neuriva). We'll all react in a distinct solution to unique solutions - Alpha Mind. So it's important to get started on small. This should lessen the unfavorable adverse consequences located in any nootropic, which has a tendency to be quite uncommon at present (finest Mind dietary supplements).

Definitely not troubles with blurry vision or dependency - ideal nootropics. One of the most common, compact nootropic adverse consequences users experience are problems and abdomen worries (Neuriva). Although unconventional individual customers, do battle with the two of those compact detrimental effects (Alpha Mind). Nonetheless, these both of those can Typically be prevented by staying hydrated when using intelligent medications. Ensure to eat a great deal of water and in many cases Gatorade when using sensible drugs not simply espresso!. Neuriva.

Adderall is usually a prescription medication that contains really promoting amphetamines - finest brain dietary supplements. It can be most frequently prescribed to handle consideration deficit hyperactivity situation (ADHD) and narcolepsy, having said that It really is drastically taken by healthier grownups to boost interest and emphasis (). most effective nootropics. Adderall will work by rising The provision in the Mind substances dopamine and noradrenaline in just your prefrontal cortex, a place of your brain that controls working memory, attention and behaviors ().

In addition they lower hunger () (Neuriva). A review of forty eight reports located that Adderall substantially enhanced people's functionality to manage their actions and Improved brief-expression memory () (Thoughts Lab Professional). Relying on the dose and kind of pill advised, the consequences previous roughly twelve hrs () (Alpha Mind). It is vital to notice that these prescription drugs usually are not without having adverse effects - Neuriva.

The adverse outcomes of Adderall abuse include pressure and stress and anxiety, lower libido and sweating (). Alpha Mind. Leisure Adderall abuse also can bring about far more Excessive negative results, for instance coronary heart assault, particularly when blended with alcohol (,, ). Proof that Adderall boosts psychological efficiency is strong, nevertheless it ought to just be taken as advisable - Alpha Brain.

Will you be looking for the finest nootropic to raise your brain? Nootropics are cognitive drugs that aid to boost brain operating. Good tablets or cognitive enhancers prevail market place names made use of as opposed to nootropics. These improving tablets have a short while ago obtained loads of interest. They might improve your government capabilities such as memory enhancement, self-inspiration, and greater clarity of intellect with a boost in creativity.

This guide will allow you to experience a number of of Those people features that you just have to have to search for in a nootropic supplement for it to get Harmless and efficient. Without the need of additional ado, let us start off - best nootropics. Now, tablets are not anything to just take without the need of warning - Alpha Brain. It's needed to know the ingredients of the products beforehand (ideal nootropics).

Certainly, caffeine has nootropic impacts. Many of us have in fact been getting in caffeine in espresso for your longest time, since it assists to improve your alertness and would make you are feeling much more awake so as to start off your working day energetically (nootropic). How caffeine boosts your brain activity and alertness? It features as a key nerve method stimulant (Brain Lab Pro).

That is how caffeine assists us to come to feel far more awake from the early early morning. You could be questioning if coffee is poor to suit your needs, how is caffeine valuable on your wellness. Which is real, nevertheless when a reasonable amount is coupled with other purely natural substances, it generates caffeine's useful aspects.

L-theanine is a typical amino acid normally found out in tea leaves and some kind of bay bolete mushrooms - Neuriva. The amino acid is nicely-recognized for its strain and panic and rigidity reduction residential or professional Homes with resulting in sleepiness (Intellect Lab Professional). This moreover point is One of the factors a whole lot of people take tea in the morning to fully awake them selves as L-theanine aid the intellect to establish attentive wakefulness - nootropic.

When L-theanine coupled with caffeine, it developed a far more noticable synergetic effect that causes increased focus and higher creativeness to muster up the cognitive qualities of your head. finest Mind health https://www.last.fm/user/l3xsakx354 supplements. Tea leaves really are a organic herb with nootropic household or business Qualities - Neuriva. Identical to that, Rhodiola Rosea is usually a The natural way occurring herb comprehended for its de-stressing and tiredness-preventing Houses. best brain supplements.

Residing in a aggressive entire world, students and working-course people today need being on their own ft all the time and continuously drive on their own. The lessen in psychological wellness and elevation in anxiety and anxiety is at an all-time significant. Rhodiola Rosea is usually a normal herb that assists to tranquil your nerves and it has a tranquil end result with sedative destructive results.

Although absolutely nothing at all can accommodate an absence of slumber, Rhodiola Rosea can substantially reduce mental exhaustion as well. Lion's mane mushroom has essentially been comprehended for its clinical works by using for some time now. This mushroom decreases the dangers of quite a few disorders and diseases like dementia and belly ulcer (finest brain nutritional supplements). Regardless of whether we quit here, it continue to is a favorable addition in nootropic dietary supplements (Head Lab Professional).

Now, certainly, significant circumstances are encouraged to visit knowledgeable and acquire help from them. Thoughts Lab Professional. However, this mushroom can help decrease the bleak and jittery feeling everyone receive every so often and help move our minds into the constructive side of life and support de-stress the mind (Head Lab Professional).

This mushroom impacts the intestine and increases the digestive body immune process that aids in securing your body from any sort of ingested pathogen and microbes. Phenotropil is a miracle drug additive in nootropic dietary supplements. Phenotropil, in addition to its member of your relatives piracetam, has really had superior work and investigation study accomplished to check out their effects on test animal intellect and physique immune system.

Piracetam and Phenotropil are regarded to boost dopamine and boost your condition of head and imagination - Neuriva. Artificial medication for instance this a single have a tendency to rub persons the incorrect way on account of a pre-produced stigma. But these medicines are carefully analyzed to help you the mind healthily and refrain from undertaking additional damage than excellent - Neuriva.

[my-blueumbrella]

#mankind

#Let the best common sense prevail! Win! The East is looking at the West and the West is looking at the East, but sadly there aren’t any answers yet to fight the pandemic. As the fear looms right at the doorstep, I just retrospect. Living in one of the most populated country in the world my heart does flip on what next. With such a deluge of media reports and so much time to go through at disposal one doesn’t really know what or who to rely on, other than- the common sense. Perhaps in the time of crisis that has to act more like the most responsive/reactive organ. The common sense I realized too works on certain attributes- our acceptance or denial in this situation. I began with a denial; work place, friends and family had better off common sense than me. Denial came from the desire of not letting my life goals be just staring at me, I couldn’t let them go, not yet. I vouched discreetly I will guard them with all my strength for the time being. As I read reports, I realized simultaneously and slowly how the common sense is prevailing in life around me. My families for one have locked themselves in – not even I am accepted or expected to travel 22 kms to visit them, it shook me a little, oh! Are these people just going overboard? But then I love them and accept them will all my heart so there were no questions asked. A common sense I used to secure the loose ends at my own household – cleaning, deep cleaning, uber deep cleaning, ultra sanitized cleaning (if there is a term yet for a homegrown house cleaning). My other part of heart and life belongs to my home. I post my notes and generously share my accomplishments on home front. On this front I work with all my resources added to my common sense. I cannot go wrong here. The entire of my social network – friends, colleagues, business associates is where my common sense has the most fielding time- the opinions, counter opinions, constructive opinion, life changing opinions, life saving opinions, new life opinions- its all there. A self-refrained social lockdown just doesn’t seem to have gone too well for a socially connected work obsessed person like me. My friends have been putting sense into my head to lock, stock and barrel. I put sense back into them on lock stock too but that’s my common sense reaction. A friend from the west has been debating with me to evaluate how it could go very wrong as it has in the most advanced countries of the world, I agree mostly but counter it sometimes with loose influenced rational which is again provoked and evaluated by my common sense on the matter thrown in with some logic and rational. The other friend is a wise one to reason out with the factual data, here I try and put some extra common sense to add it up with our collective number crunching and we arrive at a plausible theory and start worrying more. The other friend has reasoned out how imperative it is to be at the workplace since theirs is part of the essential service industry, here I use my limited common sense and we agree though grudgingly. I do believe in hope and miracles and sometimes not logically though. I live in the country where people have unshakeable faith in the mystic power of Himalayas and the bells at the shrines through the length and breadth of the country. It has been coexisting for ages known or unknown. People around me have this unmistakable faith, which doesn’t faint or get challenged at times like this. Ours, after all is the land of karma, the land where supposedly the divine lived once. My being agnostic to the faith sometimes dwarfs and I look at their common sense for answers. I sometime do acquire my common sense from my house help who has been smiling tirelessly with joy for all of 7 years I have known her with limited resources and without any worry about the world, or sometimes I acquire it from the 87 or something year old priest who chants every single day as he rings the bells at a temple nearby. Or sometimes I acquire it from watchman at my building who for many years has left all he has back home in another country to guard us night and day and does the same work for the last 14 years. Or sometimes from someone at work who has worked at the same workplace for the last 36 years of his life doing the same thing and doing effortlessly. Sometimes I borrow it from a gardener’s daughter who is studying her M.sc to fulfill her dreams without electricity in her house for all her life I hope that their common sense and hope wins too. As I reflect, I hope a common sense prevails in each of one around us for a longer time though. It will be loss to not see hope brimming around each one of us.

[mirascrafts]

CARE & CLEANING

We at "Miras Carpets" know that you will enjoy it for years to come. Area rugs are one of the easiest ways to freshen the look, color and style of your home. Like any investment, a rug must be properly taken care of if it is to last. Following are tips for extending rug life.

KNOWING YOUR RUG

All rugs are handmade by skilled artisans, or in a specialty manufacturing facility, and are checked to meet quality standards before shipment. The following seven simple facts will help you to understand your rug and prolong its life.

Color

No two rugs are the same. Slight color variations are common for handmade rugs, as dye lots may change over a period of time.

Odor

Odors are caused by dyes, yarns and shipping for long distances in sealed wrap. Most odors dissipate within a week once the rug is removed from the shipping wrap.

Shedding

All wool rugs will shed. Shedding will subside over time, depending on traffic and wear. It typically takes 20-25 vacuums, at a minimum, to curtail shedding. Some will shed for the lifetime of the rug.

Fading

If exposed to direct sunlight, rug colors typically fade over time, even if they are fade resistant.

Creases

If your rug has been rolled or folded for shipping, it may include creases. Creases should disappear within a week or two when the rug is laid out flat. Reverse rolling the rug overnight will help.

Wear

As a general rule, rugs of all materials and constructions should be rotated every 3-6 months to balance color and evenly distribute wear.

Sprouts

Loose fibers, or sprouts, are a normal part of the break-in process of handmade rugs. To remove sprouts, use a small pair of scissors to snip them off even with the pile. Do not pull the fiber out, as this can cause a deterioration of the backing.

Materials

While #mirascarpets uses the highest quality materials in all products, some materials are more delicate and require special care. For example, while viscose lends a high sheen, luster and softness to a rug, it is a material made of wood pulp that is broken down and formed into fibers. These fibers are much more delicate than wool and not advised for high-traffic areas. In addition, special care must be taken when cleaning. Please see more details on cleaning your viscose rug in the Special Cleaning Guideline section below.

MAINTENANCE OF YOUR RUG

How to Vacuum Your Rug

Canister vacuums without beater bars are the optimal type of vacuum to use on rugs. Brooms and manual sweepers are also a gentle and effective way to

clean rugs.

Many of today’s upright vacuums are super high powered. The high suction can pull out the threads from the back of a rug and cause “sprouts.” Use the handheld attachment to vacuum your area rug, whenever possible.

If you choose not to (or are unable to use) the handheld attachment on your upright vacuum, make sure to turn off the vacuum’s beater bar, as it can pull fibers from the face of the rug and cause the rug to fuzz. If the beater bar cannot be turned off, set it on the highest position possible before vacuuming. Then, carefully place the vacuum on the rug.

If the rug has serged (finished) edges, refrain from continuously running the vacuum over the edges, as this will loosen fibers around the edges and cause them to deteriorate.

Avoid running the vacuum over the fringes at the ends of the rug, as fraying may occur. Use the handheld attachment to clean the fringes.

If a rug is reversible, make sure to vacuum both sides. This will remove grit and grime that can prematurely wear out your rug.

How to Clean Your Rug

Clean spills immediately. Once a stain is set, it becomes much more difficult to clean.

Never rub a spill, as this forces the spill deeper into the rug. Instead, blot the stain with a clean white cloth.

For wool rugs, use lukewarm water to remove any residual stain, as wool is more prone to bleeding and staining than synthetic fibers.

Always use clean water to remove any residual cleaner, and dry towels to absorb any remaining moisture.

Professional Cleaning For Your Handmade Rug

Always use a professional area rug cleaning expert. Cleaning a handmade rug requires a process different than cleaning wall-to-wall carpet.

Inspect the rug with a rug cleaning expert prior to cleaning. Get a signed receipt and guarantee of work before the work is performed.

SPECIAL CLEANING GUIDELINES

Wool Rugs

With a dry cotton towel or white paper towel, blot out stain as much as possible.

Scrape off any food or debris with a dull instrument.

Mix a very small amount of dish soap with a cup of cold water. With a clean sponge and soap mix (avoid using excessive water), gently remove remainder of the stain

and then blot the area with a dry towel.

Avoid excessive heat or agitation, as wool rugs are more prone to bleeding and staining than synthetic rugs. We recommend using a professional rug cleaner on an annual basis.

Synthetic Fiber Rugs (Olefin | Polypropylene | Nylon)

With a dry cotton towel or white paper towel, blot out stain as much as possible.

Scrape off any food or debris with a dull instrument.

Mix a very small amount of dish soap with a cup of cold water. With a clean sponge and soap mix, remove the remainder of stain and then blot the area with a dry towel.

Indoor/Outdoor Rugs

With a dry cotton towel or white paper towel, blot out stain as much as possible.

Scrape off any food or debris with a dull instrument.

Mix a very small amount of dish soap with a cup of cold water. With a clean sponge and soap mix, remove remainder of the stain. Allow the area to dry.

For all-over cleaning, spray with a mixture of soap and water and rinse with a garden hose.

JUTE NATUAL

Natural Fiber Rugs (Jute | Hemp | Coir | Sisal)

Natural fiber rugs inherently have loose fibers and knots. Regularly vacuum rug on low power setting, making sure to vacuum from different angles.

Loose threads on the face of the rug should be trimmed with household scissors. To avoid unraveling or damaging the rug, threads on the rug’s face should never be pulled.

Spills should be gently blotted with a clean, undyed cloth to absorb as much of the spill as possible and prevent spreading. Work from the outer edges of the spill towards the center. If applying cleaning solvents, test on a small area first. For stubborn stains, use a professional cleaning service that specializes in wool rugs. Do not dry clean, as strong cleaning chemicals may damage or fade the rug.

Shag Rugs

Spray extraction, along with use of a wool-approved product, can be used to clean shag rugs.

Shedding is normal for wool products and decreases over time. Do not pull yarn out,

as this may result in damage to the rug.

Canister vacuums without a beater bar are most effective in cleaning shag rugs. Vacuums with beater bars and/or brushes, or those set too low, may abrade the face of the rug.

Viscose Rugs

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If cleaning should become necessary, dry cleaning is preferable. However, always check with the dry cleaner since some harsh chemicals may cause discoloration to the fibers.

Do not spot clean with water as cellulose fibers will turn yellow or discolor when wet and may stain after cleaning.

Lighter colors are more susceptible to staining and large, solid areas will show staining more easily.

Avoid placing viscose rugs in high-traffic areas to minimize the need for cleaning.

RUG PADS: PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT AND YOURSELF

A rug pad provides a durable, long-lasting foundation that protects a rug for years to come.

RugPad

The proper rug pad can

Extend the life of the rug by reducing wear and tear and enhancing air circulation

between the rug and floor.

Help to prevent accidents by holding the rug in place, minimizing movement and slippage.

Add extra comfort underfoot by providing additional cushioning and support.

Protect all floor types, including both hard surfaces and carpets.

To Book your Slots today

For services Call our experts 📞 +91 80 4157 1894 today.

For more details visit our website

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[jeonsdear]

Hi, can I first say happy pride !! I hope you’re happy and well. My question is, do you have any tips on eating healthy? I have a bad habit of eating lots of sugar and I never have the energy to make healthy dinner. Honestly my discipline is nonexistent. Whenever I see something unhealthy I rarely think “oh I shouldn’t eat it”, and if I do think that then my response is that I don’t care, eating it this one time isn’t bad. It’s a endless circle and I’m really uncomfortable in my own skin :(((

Happy pride to you too, love! I will put it under a read more so people who are triggered by food/diet stuff won’t have to read it

Sugar is a little devil, for it conditions your body to crave and need it. Chances are you grew up in a household where sugar was a common ingredient in your food and therefore your body got addicted to it. And while I’m not a supporter of fully banning sugar from your life (how boring would that be) I would suggest simply eating a lot more fruit. Fruits, as healthy as they are, have a lot of natural sugar and while some people seem to think that’s bad (please imagine me rolling my eyes) it is still a very healthy alternative to satisfy your sugar needs with. 

Human bodies need sugar and I’m all for learning intuitive eating! Humans have forgotten that their bodies signalizes them what it needs. We don’t listen to it. Whether it comes to hunger signs, thirst signs, or specific nutritions we might need right now. That includes the need for chocolate when we’re feeling emotionally exhausted for example. Do you eat when you’re hungry or do you eat just because you want to?

–>  Here is a very effective, informative and kind guide to what cravings mean and how you can deal with them in a healthy and compassionate manner. 

–> And here is a visual grid of what your cravings mean, what it has to do with your mood and what you can eat to satisfy them. Then figure out what you actually like (SEASON YOUR VEGGIES HUN). 

Another thing is, keep in mind eating healthy should still be fun and tasty for you. If you don’t like avocados you don’t have to eat them. If you’re vegetarian you don’t have to eat chicken breasts. We don’t always have a lot of time to cook so some people prefer to pre-cook for a whole week on a Sunday. Try if that’s something that works for you! Especially for dinner. If you’d rather not do that, pick easy and fast recipes for Dinner. You don’t have to be in the kitchen for 2 hours to make something healthy. Here are links for recipes: breakfast, lunch, dinner. 

–> Healthy basic grocery list 

Another option can be simply altering your usual meals! Let’s say you love to eat pasta. Great! Carbs aren’t your enemy. It’s all about portion and your choice of sauce. Instead of buying a pre-packed one, start making your own with tomatoes and minced meat. If you like to eat bread in the mornings then welcome to the club - but instead of putting Nutella on it opt for an egg. Substitute butter with margarine. 

Since you said your discipline is close to non-existent: I’ve gotten myself into a routine of refraining from eating sweets and chocolate during the weekdays but allowing myself to eat all that when I’m out with friends or simply having coffee and cake with my family on the weekends. If you go cold-turkey and cut out anything unhealthy (which honestly no human being should do that food is fun) you will binge and overeat at some point. So rather plan certain meals in your week where you’re allowed to indulge so you know you’re not restricting! 

I can relate to feeling uncomfortable in your skin so all I can tell you is that you are what you eat. It’s honestly true. I feel a LOT better when I eat my veggies and fruits, mentally and physically. I think you have to do it for a little bit of time for you to feel that too and then you automatically tend to eat healthier! And remember, it takes 25 days for a habit to become routine. So I think you need to experience how you feel when you eat healthy for a bit for your brain to be like ‘oh I actually feel so much better??? let’s pick the vegetable pan over the fries’

Just for illustrating purposes this is what I usually eat during the weekdays (I’ll include three options but I obviously only eat one of them):

Morning:1. Milk coffee, two eggs (often scrambled), a slice of bread2. Milk coffee, banana, muesli with either milk or plain joghurt3. Milk coffee, green smoothie

Lunch:1. I only ever eat salad to be honest. But I vary the type of salad! Whatever I have at home or when I’m at Uni I buy a salad to-go. (I LOVE salads I don’t have to force myself ahaha) 

Dinner:This varies a lot. I usually eat warm for dinner. Pasta for example (:p). But I eat early dinners so my last meal is always before half past 6. I just eat smaller portions. When I don’t feel in the mood for anything I sometimes just eat bread or something (I’m german we love our bread).+ tea 

Snacks:If I’m hungry between meals I chop peppers or cucumbers, eat nuts or apples and pears

All in all I try to listen to my body. I eat when my stomach rumbles and when I feel like I crave carbs, I eat carbs. When I feel like I want to eat a tomato I eat one. But I also try not to eat when I’m not hungry. Oh and I drink A LOT of water. Keep in mind I’m not a dietician I’m just speaking from experiences of years of dieting and losing weight, binge eating and distorted eating habits. 

Good luck to you!!!

[feathers-scales-and-tails]

Paralysis Ticks

So it’s summer in Australia and that means ticks! Many of us born in Australia are aware of these nasty buggers, however I was reminded today that people who move here often are not aware of the hazards of our ticks considering many ticks outside Australia are nothing more than blood sucking pests. Like most things in Australia though, we have a tick who is... special. 

This is the Paralysis Tick (Ixodes holocyclus) and is an incredibly common sight in Brisbane where I live. Here’s a map of their distribution (along with our other common, nicer ticks) below. 

Their favourite environment to live in is bushland and long grass, although they travel near and far into city and household through trusty transportation; bats, wallabies, and birds, along with others. They live  for one year with a 4 stage life cycle; egg, larvae, nymph, and adult. They can range in size from a pinhead to the nail on your thumb, the bigger the tick the longer it’s been attached and feeding. An adult tick can lay up to 3000 eggs and they take roughly 60 days to hatch! Hence why they spread like wildfire. Only the females attach and feed off hosts, while the male ticks will feed off the female, mate her, then die. 

If you haven’t guessed already from their name, these ticks cause paralysis! As they feed they inject neurotoxins into their host through saliva, causing a plethora of issues. Paralysis is rare within adults, however young children can suffer. Despite adults not suffering the paralysis, they still make us incredibly sick. Symptoms are similar to the Influenza Virus (the Flu) and there are a lot of symptoms you can suffer. These can include; rashes, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, fever, body aches and pains, lethargy, balance issues, intolerance to bright light, weak limbs, and finally issues with motor control particularly in the facial muscles and hands. They are incredibly nasty ticks. 

I’m not talking about human health today however, I’m making this post to talk about how they affect animals. Specifically our pets. 

Tick ‘season’ begins in September and progressively gets worse as our weather heats up; December and January which are in the peak of heat are the worst months. Ticks don’t stick to season though, it’s entirely possible to find them in winter! However it’s not nearly as common. During Tick season Vets are overrun with patients. Roughly 10,000 dogs are affected each year with a 5% fatality rate (500 animals). These ticks aren’t picky, they’ll commonly target; dogs, cats, birds, chickens, cattle, sheep, goats, rodents, snakes, lizards, and wildlife. Paralysis Ticks can and will kill all of the above animals if treatment is not provided. 

Animals usually start showing clinical symptoms 3-5 days after the tick has attached, it takes a while for the toxins to get into their system. This isn’t good though, as once the toxins are in and start causing noticeable issues you have a very short time frame to seek medical help. The most common symptoms within cats and dogs are; heavy and laboured breathing, excessive panting, coughing, vomiting, constant salivation and frothing at the mouth, wobbly and unsteady back legs, refusal to stand up and walk, full hind leg paralysis, and finally full body paralysis and loss of consciousness. It can take as little as 24 hours after you notice clinical symptoms for your pet to succumb to respiratory or heart failure. 

They sound like a nightmare, and trust me they are. If you discover your animal has a tick you need to book a Vet appointment immediately as without treatment they’ll likely die. Even if you remove the tick, the toxins can remain within the body for weeks. 

If you find a tick, it’s best to remove it straight away so no further toxins are injected. However refrain from squeezing the ticks body with tweezers or fingers!!! Squeezing the abdomen can cause the tick to regurgitate straight into your pet, releasing more toxins. There are special tools you can buy which twist the tick off, if not try and grab the tick by it’s head if it isn’t burrowed into your animal. Here is an example of the removal tool, and another of how to use it. 

If you don’t have this on hand, obviously have a go with tweezers. Just try your best to grab them as far down on their body as you can. 

Vet treatment wise, an antiserum to neutralise the toxin will be administered and the animal may require Intravenous fluids, oxygen and assistance breathing, and assisted urination and defecation if full paralysis has occurred. Never give your animal food or water if it’s paralysed by a tick, as your pet could inhale this into their lungs. Ticks cause respiratory failure, so without full control over their throat and chest muscles they may fail to block off their airway or swallow this food/water properly. It can take up to 9 days for a pet to recover, so your animal will either stay in vet care or will be cleared to go home with antibiotics and/or anti-nausea medication. 

The best way to avoid this heartache for your pets is obviously prevention. Below are some examples of ticks attached, keep in mind that these ticks are engorged so relatively easy to feel or spot. Newly attached ticks will be a pinhead bump, not the huge things you see here. First image is a tick attached to a dog, second is a blue tongue skink, third is a bird (I’m unsure of species). First image is an engorged Paralysis tick, second image are some non-full paralysis ticks, third image is not a paralysis tick (from my viewpoint anyway).

The most straightforward method of prevention is to check your animals regularly, particularly within Summer for ticks. You do this by feeling along your animal and pulling back their fur/feathers/wool to check any small bump or raise you might feel. Common areas of attachment is on the chest and neck, however ticks also like eyes, ears, belly, and around the anus. Check every inch of your pet, sometimes the pricks even go between toes. Here are common areas to check for different animals. Dogs and cats: under the collar, ears, eyes, mouth, belly, chest.  Birds: eyes, beaks and ears. Generally ticks like to attach in places a bird can’t reach so they can’t be pulled off. Armpits (under wings) and along the bottom are also favoured spots.  Reptiles: cloaca, armpits, ears, mouth, eyes.  Rodents: face, stomach, back, ears Sheep: udders, belly, armpits, ears, eyes, jaw/chin.  Cattle: everywhere. Just trust me. Everywhere

Obviously check over your entire animal, but those are the most common spots for each respective species if you’re short for time. Other methods of prevention include sprays and topline treatment. Cattle and sheep get sprayed down for ticks, while dogs and cats should receive regular preventative treatment often in the form of a spray on the back of their neck just like flea treatment. It’s also important to keep grass short on your property as ticks love living in this. Furthermore, don’t walk your dog through any long grass or bushland during summer if you can help it. 

I think that pretty much covers everything! It’s a lot of information but I figured the more the better use it would be to somebody wanting knowledge/help. To everybody living in Australia, or potentially visiting, stay safe and watch out for these ticks. I’ve had several myself and they are not fun! 

Here’s a chonky little Brushtail Possum for you! Fun Fact; Australian Possums and Bandicoots (along with some other species I’m forgetting now?) have built up a natural immunity to Paralysis ticks considering how frequently they’re exposed! They can still be affected, but are very unlikely to suffer paralysis from them. Brushies are my favourite so I had to share one. Chonky tree cats.