#we ever get the chance to educate them on capitalism

[snekdood]

i think it would be beneficial for ppl to realize theres a difference between a dyed in the wool nazi and an idiot who fell down whichever rw pipeline, the latter of which we actually have more of a chance of saving from becoming a nazi in the first place

[steddieasitgoes]

he can't sit with us (or maybe he can?)

written for @steddie-week Day 4 prompt: Trade Rating: T | wc: 2651 | no cw thank you to @stevethehairington and @thefreakandthehair for beta-ing this one for me!! Read on ao3

Eddie is amped up. 

Lunch has always been his favorite part of the school day, but today is going to be an especially good one. Not because of his lunch — he forgot to grab the sandwich he made last night so he wouldn’t forget, and he’s been out of lunch credit for weeks now, so he’s shit out of luck on that front — but because today’s the day he unleashes his latest rant on the hivemind that is the Hawkins High student body. 

It’s taken him weeks to work out everything he wants to say about the giant mall they’re building a few blocks from Main Street that everyone and their workaholic fathers are excited about. The one that led to the demolishment of Hawkins' second-best trailer park — Forest Hills being the best, obviously. He even asked Wayne’s advice on what he should say since his uncle has way more experience going against The Man™ and The Man’s™ People. 

He’s pretty proud of what he’s come up with. Sure, it’s a typical Munson rant that goes on a personal tangent in the middle about how Sam Goody and Tape World are probably going to put Jet’s Jams out of music. And okay, yeah, Jet’s Jams is the fucking worst most of the time and only ever has the top 40s bullshit in stock, but at least Eddie has some pull with good ole’ Jet and can bargain with the dude to order a metal record or two every once in a while. You think Sam Goody is going to take his advice? Not a chance in hell!

But then he’ll get back on track and get into the educational stuff that Wayne talked to him about. At least, that’s the plan; all he has to do is stick to the bullet point list he scribbled out in Ms. O’Donnell’s class thirty minutes ago, ignoring whatever the fuck she was going on about at the front of the room. 

It’s going to be great. Definitely one of his best lunchtime soapbox speeches. Hell, maybe this will be the one to actually wake some of his peers up. Capitalism is the real devil here. Not him. 

He’s bouncing with adrenaline and nerves as he saunters into the crowded cafeteria, ready for his moment, ready for—

What the hell? 

Eddie stops midstride when he spots Gareth and Jeff waving at him from a table in the middle of the room. Again, what the hell? That’s not their table. Not even fucking close. 

Eddie doesn’t believe in the social hierarchy of high school cliques, but he does respect the lunch table distribution system Hawkins’ operates under. And he knows, without a shadow of a doubt, that tables in the middle are destined for the so-called elite. Not his Dungeons & Dragons club and the other lost sheep stragglers he’s accumulated over his extended high school career.  

They’re supposed to be sitting at a table on the outskirts of the room. The one by the windows, with the art kids to his right and the drama kids to his left. The weirdo, outcast corner. 

And yet, there they are in the middle of the room at a table usually occupied by the so-called elites and anyone else they’ve deemed worthy of their company. 

“This isn’t our table,” Eddie says, slamming his hands down with enough force to knock Gareth’s brown paper bag over, taking his unopened Dr. Pepper can with it. 

Gareth scowls, righting the can. “Now I see why you’re a super senior. Of course, it’s not our fucking table!” 

Eddie intertwines his fingers before pillowing his chin against them. “Okay then, Gareth the Great, tell me why we are sitting here.” 

“Our table is occupied,” Jeff supplies. 

“Occupied? Everyone knows that’s our table! Is this person new? Have they recently had a lobotomy?” 

This time, it’s Freak who speaks up. “No. He knows. He probably just doesn’t give a shit. A table’s a table or whatever.” 

Or whatever? Fat chance. A table hasn’t ever been just a table in the hellscape that is Hawkins High. Still, Eddie can’t help but be curious. There aren’t many people who would willingly sit at a new table this late into the school year. It’s a ballsy move.

He figures it’s a scorned drama kid or drumline member — there’s always drama in those groups; someone is always fucking someone they shouldn’t be, horny assholes. But when he turns to get a glance at this intruder, it’s not a butthurt outcast taking up court at the table, but rather Hawkins' very own Fallen King, Steve Harrington. 

For the third time, what the hell? 

“Did you tell him it’s our table?” 

“No! He’s Steve Harrington! I don’t think he’ll appreciate a couple of nerds telling him to move.” 

“And we value our lives too much to mess with upperclassmen,” Gareth says, mumbling something about learning his lesson the last time he tried something stupid like that. 

Eddie rolls his eyes before scoffing loud enough to startle the nearby table of cheerleaders. He wiggles his fingers in an innocent wave before focusing his attention back on his friends. 

“Please, Steve is all bark and no bite. And he hasn’t been Steve Harrington in a while.” Eddie raises his voice several octaves, batting his eyelashes as he says Steve’s name. “Now he’s just Steve Harrington,” he says, shrugging his shoulders with a nonchalance he never would have expected to use for someone of Steve’s former status. “He’s just some guy whose girlfriend dumped him for an artsy loner.” 

“It doesn’t matter, man! You don’t mess with people like Harrington,” Jeff says, shaking his head. “I’m sure it’s just like a one-time thing or something. It’s not like any of his friends are sitting with him. Maybe he’s just fighting with them.” 

Jeff has a point. Steve is alone. Sitting at the table all be himself, poking disinterestedly at an apple sauce cup. He’s not cowering or trying to make himself smaller like most people would do if they were stuck eating lunch alone, but he’s not making a show of it either. He’s just there. Minding his own business, staring out the windows Eddie has spent all five years of his high school career looking out off. 

“Those sounds like quitting words, Jefferson,” Eddie taunts, turning his attention back to the group. He makes a show of looking each and every Hellfire member in the eyes when he speaks again. “Are we quitters?” 

The entire table groans, a few shake their heads. Gareth, always the brave one, throws a chip at Eddie’s head that he manages to catch in his mouth. And people say he’s not athletic! 

“Since we’re not quitters, what should we do about this unlawful infiltration?” 

“I don’t know if it's an infiltration,” Freak says. “We just like traded tables without a verbal agreement.” 

“That’s worse than a seize!” 

“I don’t know, man. You’re the one that’s all fired up about it. Why don’t you go over there and ask Harrington to give it back to us.” 

“You know what,” Eddie says, pushing off the table until he’s standing. “I will.” 

With the same gravitas he entered the cafeteria with, Eddie saunters over to Steve. The sooner he gets this table thing handled, the sooner he can get on with his lunchtime diatribe — see Mr. Vance, I do listen in English class, old bat.

Eddie’s not a quiet walker by any means — he’s had enough pillows thrown at his head from Wayne for the way he stomps around the trailer in the mornings — but he manages to sneak up on Steve. Maybe it’s because his eyes are trained on a squirrel running up a tree in the distance, mumbling encouragements as the poor thing struggles to make it up. 

Huh, Harrington’s a squirrel fan? Who knew? 

Eddie’s watch chirps, a reminder that there are only ten minutes left of lunch. Jesus H. Christ! He’ll have to do an abridged version of his speech now, but it should still be enough to get his point across. That is if he manages to get Steve to trade tables with them without a fight. 

“Fancy seeing you here, Steve,” Eddie says, loud enough to startle Steve out of the squirrel watching. “What brings you to my humble abode?” 

Steve glances up at him with a look of disinterest he seems to have perfected in his fall from grace. And honestly, as much as Eddie hates to admit it and would never say it out loud unless he was being waterboarded or some shit, this new version of Steve really works for him. 

“Your humble what?” Steve asks, dropping his disinterest to look up confused instead. 

His brows pull together, scrunching up his forehead in a way that should be unflattering but is honestly sort of endearing. And his head is tilted to the side like a confused animal — something Eddie has a lot of experience with, given his unofficial status as a trailer park animal rescuer. Eddie’s so lost in studying Steve’s confusion that he forgets to actually respond, which like, is new territory for Eddie. He’s never one not to talk. 

“Look, man, I don’t know what you want, but could you just spit it out so I can go back to enjoying my lunch?”

Eddie’s personality returns to his body in an instant. “Enjoying your lunch, you say?” He takes a second to glance at Steve’s lunch tray. A measly bite has been taken out of the cardboard the school passes off as pizza. The side of congealed mac and cheese sits untouch and his apple sauce cup is open but still perfectly intact. “Doesn’t look like you ate at all, Steve.” 

“Seriously, Munson, what do you want?” 

Eddie tsks and yanks the seat next to Steve away from the table before not-so-gracefully falling into it. He kicks his feet up on the table a moment later, the toe of his boot knocking against the carton of milk he’s willing to bet Steve also hasn’t touched. Though he can’t really blame him for that one. Milk is not a lunchtime beverage, and no amount of dairy propaganda is ever going to change that. 

“As I’m sure you’re aware, Harrington, this is my table.” 

“I didn’t know the cafeteria had assigned seats.” 

“Bullshit, you didn’t,” Eddie growls, throwing his hands up in the air. The move forces him to lose his balance, chair wobbling on two legs under him, threatening to give out and dump him on his ass. Definitely not the lunchtime show he was hoping to give today. But before he meets his demise, Steve extends his hand, steadying the chair long enough for Eddie to drop his feet and reclaim his balance. “Thanks.” 

Steve grunts in response and goes back to staring out the window. 

Fucking squirrel. 

“Look, Steve,” Eddie says, getting straight to the point this time. “I don’t know why you decided to switch tables today or why you decided my table was the one you suddenly wanted, but can we please just switch back?” 

“I’m good here.” 

He tears his eyes away from the window for long enough to glance at his former table, where Gareth and Jeff are using straws as lightsabers without a care in the world. Steve snorts, and Eddie stiffens; he really, really doesn’t want to have to fight anyone today, but if Steve’s willing to be a dick about his friends in front of his face, well, fight, he will. But then Steve’s face softens, and he shakes his head in amusement. 

“Looks like your friends are good where they’re at, too. Though the lightsaber skills could use some work,” Steve teases. “Are we good then?”

“No, we’re not good!” Eddie shouts, trying his best to keep his brain on task. We’re here to get our table back, not ponder why Steve Harrington suddenly has a soft spot for nerds because what? “That’s your table, man, and this is ours. You’re going to upset the fragile balance of this place.” 

“Shouldn’t you be thanking me or something? I thought upsetting the balance was your life goal.” 

How dare Steve Harrington read him like that.

Since his dramatics haven’t worked, Eddie opts for the truth this time. “I have no interest in sitting in the middle of the damn cafeteria where everyone can see me and my friends just to cause a little societal unrest.” 

“And I have no interest in being forced to sit in the middle so everyone can stare at me while judging me and my mistakes.” 

Oh. 

The truth shouldn’t be all that shocking. Anyone who has eyes has witnessed Steve’s fall from King too well; Eddie’s not sure there is a word for what Steve is now. He’s not a pariah or an outcast, not smart enough to be a nerd, and the rumor is he quit basketball, so he’s not a jock. He’s just… lost? 

Steve groans, running a hand over his face for a second before his fingers pinch the bridge of his nose. “Can we pretend I didn’t say that?” 

“Uh, sure?” 

“Look, Eddie, I’m not going to trade tables with you, but if this one means that much to you, I don’t mind sharing.” 

“I thought you said you don’t want people staring at you?” 

“I don’t.” 

“Okay, well, sitting with the Freaks of Hawkins is definitely going to get people staring and talking, and honestly, you might even have to dodge a punch or two just for being in our vicinity.” 

“I’ll survive.” 

For the first time in his life, Eddie has no idea what to say. On one hand the idea of sharing a table is so preposterous he’s convinced he might be dreaming right now. But after a quick pinch to confirm that he is awake, he goes back to weighing his options. Sharing a table with Steve isn’t ideal, but sitting in the middle of the fucking cafeteria is a death sentence. He might be able to hold his own with the upper echelon of Hawkins High, but his ragtag group of friends isn’t so scrappy. 

And then there’s the lost sheep of it all. 

Eddie’s spent most of his high school career looking after lonely high schoolers. Whisking them under his wing, giving them a safe space to eat lunch or a club to hang out at after school to avoid having to walk back home alone. He thought he’d become somewhat of an expert at it, but it seems Steve Harrington has managed to slip through his cracks. 

Eddie would be the world’s biggest hypocrite if he didn’t at least try with Steve. It’s not like he has to join Hellfire or anything. All he’s really asking for his a spot at their lunch table. 

“I have one condition.” 

“Of course you do,” Steve says, rolling his eyes. 

“Actually, I have two.” Steve chuckles and motions for Eddie to get on with it already. “One, you can’t make fun of anything that happens at the table. We’re weird. You know it, we know it. We’re allowed to tease each other about it. You are not.” 

“I wouldn’t do that. Not anymore.” 

Eddie nods. “And two, you have to give me your dessert every day.” 

“Every day?” Steve balks. “You can have my applesauce and pudding cups, but I’m not giving you Friday’s chocolate cake.” 

“Guess you’re going to have to go back to sitting at the fishbowl table then.” 

Eddie watches as Steve considers this for a moment before his shoulders heave the world’s biggest sigh. “Fine.” 

Without warning, Eddie pushes away from the table, the legs of the chair screeching against the linoleum. His lips twitch at the corners, pulling into a genuine smile as he stands and offers Steve his hand. “Welcome to the Freak table, Steve.” 

[aebi12]

"Resentment" - Chapter 25 [AemondxRhaena]

Summary

He is the cause of her sufferings. He took her dragon, her betrothed, and her father. Now, he will also take away her future by having to marry him.

With so much history and bad blood between Rhaena and Aemond, their forced union has everything to fail, except that the proximity will make them discover that perhaps they have more in common than it seems.

AU - the Greens win the war.

Chapter 1 - Chapter 2 - Chapter 3 - Chapter 4 - Chapter 5 - Chapter 6 - Chapter 7 - Chapter 8 - Chapter 9 - Chapter 10 - Chapter 11 - Chapter 12 - Chapter 13 - Chapter 14 - Chapter 15 - Chapter 16 - Chapter 17 - Chapter 18 - Chapter 19 - Chapter 20 - Chapter 21 - Chapter 22 - Chapter 23 - Chapter 24

Masterlist of my other works.

Read on AO3

Tags: enemies to lovers, slow burn, romance, angst, drama, eventual smut, hurt/comfort

Please remember that english is not my first language, so I'm sorry for the mistakes...

Disclaimer: these are not my characters, they belong to George R.R. Martin, HBO, etc. Only the plot of this fanfiction belongs to me.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

King's Landing is not exactly a beautiful city.

Although, during his childhood away from the capital, Daeron had often romanticized it mainly due to the nostalgia he felt towards his mother and siblings, he had encountered a disappointing reality upon returning to the city after the war.

King's Landing was dirty, messy and smelly.

The complete opposite of Oldtown.

Oldtown and its eternal charm, its mix of tradition and modernity. It had been a good place to grow up. A place that, since a few days ago when his older brothers had told him that he should formalize his betrothal as soon as possible, he has been thinking about more and more frequently.

Although, if he is honest, it is not exactly his maternal family's ancestral city that he misses, but rather his uncle. Ser Gwayne had been a father to him since his arrival at the Hightower. He had taught him to fight, to hunt, to write... and it was precisely his advice that he wants now more than ever.

As if you didn't know what he was going to tell you.

His uncle, an honorable knight, would surely tell him that a betrothal with Lady Westerling is an excellent choice for a third son like him. That, in addition to being beautiful, the young woman is kind, educated and of noble birth. That her dowry will be more than enough to increase his personal reserves, which would never be as large as those of his older brothers. That, by joining one of the oldest houses in the West, he will have more influence in the kingdom. Not that he needs it, he doesn't mind not exercising political power, he is more than happy taking care of practical matters than dealing with tedious issues like Aemond.

Daeron is aware that marrying Marianne Westerling is the best option. Still…

His gaze shifts to the young woman who silently walks beside him through the gardens.

“I am sorry, Lady Marianne, I probably should have suggested we talk in one of the drawing rooms,” he says after watching her shiver for the third time.

“It is fine, my prince, I do not mind the cold,” he assures her, though her red nose and cracked voice say otherwise.

Daeron simply nods, and they resume their walk in silence. It is not an awkward silence, and though he knows what he’s expected to say, he can’t do it. At least not yet.

“I did not get a chance to tell you,” Marianne’s voice cuts through his thoughts, “But I did enjoy watching you compete in the tournament, my prince”

“Thank you,” he replies with a smirk, “I would have preferred to win, though.”

“You were the winner in my heart.”

Marianne seems to register her words a second later, because her cheeks flush and she looks down, clearly embarrassed.

Daeron finds the gesture adorable.

“I appreciate the sentiment,” he replies.

It takes Marianne a few long seconds to face him again, and when she does, the prince is once again struck by how pretty she is.

And by how little effect that beauty has on him.

You are a fool, he thinks as his mind conjures up the face of someone else. Someone he can never have.

“There is a matter I would like to discuss with you,” he finally dares to say, “It is my wish that we can unite our houses through a betrothal. The Crown agrees with my idea and the king, my brother, has agreed to our marriage. However, I would like to know what you think about the matter.”

His words sound formal. Too formal and rehearsed. And yet, the smile that appears on the young woman’s face is so wide that it increases the feeling of ingratitude he feels.

“I would like nothing more than to be your wife, my prince.”

Daeron struggles to offer her a smile, “It is decided then. The council will arrange the details with your lord father, so we can proceed.”

“I am honored, my prince,” she replies, bowing.

 “My brother will surely announce the betrothal soon, but I ask for discretion for now. It's wiser this way.”

“Of course,” Marianne nods immediately.

“And we should probably wait until winter is over before we get married,” he says more to himself, “Yes, I think waiting a while would be wise.”

Time. It's just what he needs. Time to get used to his future.

And time to banish ideas – and feelings – that are better left uninhabited.

***

His sheets no longer smell like her.

The scent of roses that always surrounds Rhaena has almost completely disappeared from his room, and as Aemond shifts in bed trying to find a comfortable position to rest, he can't help but grab the pillow at his side and inhale deeply, wanting to find a trace of his wife in it.

But he finds no comfort in the action.

Like the previous nights, he can't sleep either. His room is now a place that torments him. All he can think about every time he enters it is Rhaena's body lying between his sheets, her platinum hair spread across his pillows, the softness of her skin, her kisses...

Aemond growls, exasperated with himself because, no matter how hard he tries, he can't get her out of his mind.

Although he finds refuge in his daily work, forcing himself to focus on the affairs of the kingdom, on accounts, reports and inspections, the nights are torture. Every time he returns to the Tower he walks silently so as not to hear her, so as not to succumb to his desire to require her presence, to see her or to hold her in his arms. Only that his private rooms are living proof of what he tries to deprive himself of. And, although he knows that he could very well request new accommodations, that masochistic part of him does not wish to do so. No, that little part delights in sleeping in the bed he shared with her, where he felt her warmth…

The prince curses once more as his mind conjures the sensation of sinking inside of her, of her moans and the way Rhaena says his name when she explodes with pleasure. His body betrays him too, and he feels his cock getting excited, growing between his legs and screaming for his attention.

“Seven hells!”

Would it be so bad to summon her? To share her bed again? At some point he would have to, because after all, their union must produce an heir. So why not just give in to his desire? Why keep keeping her away? Wasn’t it easier to just…?

No.

He had done it once before. He had given in to his passions and it had brought him close to death. He had allowed someone else to control him and have influence over him. And he wasn’t going to do it again. He couldn’t show himself weak again. He had agreed to this marriage only to fulfill his duty to the realm, to please his mother and help in the survival of his house. Nothing more was required of him.

Aemond moves between the sheets again, but when the pressure on his cock becomes unbearable, he can’t help but slide his hand and stroke the length of it, moving up and down and imagining it’s Rhaena’s hand stroking him. Or her mouth. How would it feel to have her lips and tongue wrapped around his cock? The mere thought makes him explode, spilling his seed all over his stomach.

Defeated, though somewhat relieved, he cleans himself up and manages to sleep for a few hours. As the sun breaks dawn, he slips out from between the sheets and walks to the training yard, where he grabs a sword and begins to stab the straw man.

“Bad night?”

The question comes from Ser Criston, who joins him, also taking up a sword.

“I didn’t get much sleep.”

“Once again?” the knight faces him, tacitly challenging him to a duel, “What is troubling you, my prince?”

He does not answer immediately. Though he trusts Cole, he doesn’t dare discuss his situation with him. Or anyone, really.

“I think we should send Daeron and Tessarion to the Stormlands.”

“Is this because of the thefts to the nobles?”

“It is happening more and more often.”

“Your brother wouldn’t be much help, not on the back of his dragon,” Ser Criston replies, “The thieves probably set up camp deep in the woods, from the sky Daeron would not be able to see them. You know that as well as I do.”

“Mmm,” Aemond lunges at the knight, who deflects his attack with ease.

“Send me if you are so worried about the situation.”

“No, I need you here.”

The prince repeats his action and lets out a frustrated grunt when he fails to even touch his master.

“You are distracted,” Cole comments as they put down their swords and catch their breath, “What is it really bothering you?” When he gets no response, he insists, “The realm is at peace, the council follows your instructions and there is no sign of disloyalty on their part.”

Aemond takes his sword again and Cole his morning star, wielding it skillfully and making the young man concentrate to the maximum so as not to be hit by the weapon.

“Is it Lady Rhaena?” When the prince glares at him, a sideways smile appears on Cole’s face. “I imagine that living together is not proving to be an easy task.”

“Why do you assume that?”

“You have always been an independent young man,” Ser Criston dodges again, “Accustomed to your ways and routines. And now you have a wife to include in all of this. It must be… complicated.”

“I barely see her.”

“Why is that?”

Aemond shrugs, “I have no need to,” he lies, “She is just…”

“Your wife,” the knight cuts him off, “Who in the eyes of the gods you covered with your cloak and swore to protect.”

“She does not need my protection, she is safe here in the Keep.”

“That is not what I mean,” Ser Criston replies, shaking his head, “Lady Rhaena requires your attention and dedication as well.”

Aemond lets out a cynical chuckle, though internally, he feels a tug of guilt and bitterness at the knight’s words, “She receives enough attention from the Court. I do not think she desires mine.”

His words must convey something of what he feels, because Ser Criston stops his attacks and watches him with those shrewd eyes that detected his lies as a child, and made him confess his escapes from the castle to try to sneak into the Dragon Pit, “You can be gentle with her. There would be nothing wrong with getting along with your wife. I know you didn’t wish to marry her, but that doesn’t stop your feelings towards that union from changing over time.”

“We married to produce a royal heir,” Aemond retorts, “For the future of the dynasty. You told me that, remember?”

“I remember,” he nods and lets out a heavy sigh, “I just think there is nothing wrong with you feeling affection for your wife, my prince”

Aemond grimaces and looks away for a moment.

“It has nothing to do with that,” he finally murmurs, and when he faces Criston, it is with a harsh and cold look in his eye, “Let’s keep training.”

And although his words echo in his mind, he focuses only on the comforting sound of steel against steel, trying to forget his doubts and everything else.

***

“We are honored by your visit, Princess Rhaena.”

The orphanage is considerably larger than the one she visited last time. And it is filled with small children running around in torn shoes and scantily clad despite the cold. Seeing their little red noses and almost purple lips, Rhaena is suddenly embarrassed by the fur coat she is wearing.

The septa, an elderly woman, offers her a rickety chair by the fire.

“Thank you,” she replies with a smile, “I hope the provisions I brought are enough to ease your burden.”

“Praise the Mother,” the woman replies, “Our burden is great, as you can see, my lady. But we try to house all the children who are in need.”

Rhaena looks back at the many children of varying ages who are excitedly running around the carts filled with vegetables and wheat she has brought. This orphanage, one of the ones on the queen dowager’s list, is her first stop in Flea Bottom.

“The Crown appreciates your service, septa,” Rhaena clears her throat, “What else do they need?”

“There is never enough food, my lady, but we also require clothing and blankets. Last winter took more than half of the children in our care.”

Her heart sinks at the woman’s words, “I am very sorry to hear that.”

“It was a shame, really, but the Gods are probably taking better care of them than we could,” the woman sighs, “There are few who will grow up to be good men and women.”

Rhaena looks back at the children, and a lump form in her heart, “How long will they be under your care if they cannot find families to take them in?”

“A few years, until they can take care of themselves. We try to teach them practical things, but it’s hard to make a living in this city.”

The sound of a crying baby cuts off the conversation, and a young septa enters with a small child in her arms.

“One more?”

“I’m afraid so,” the young woman sighs and, seeing Rhaena, bows before leaving the small room.

“The arrival of winter makes the women simply abandon them.”

“Isn’t there some way to find their mothers? To help them so they can raise their children?”

“Babies are not welcome where they come from,” the septa explains, “Most of these children are the children of prostitutes on the Street of Silk. There is no place for these creatures in these establishments. And those that are kept are for a much worse fate.”

Rhaena pales and the septa apologizes for bringing up an inappropriate subject for her.

For the rest of the visit, as she oversees that the orphanage receives all that she has brought to offer, Rhaena wanders through the gloomy, cold rooms, promising to return with more help.

“I will return soon,” she assures the septa, “And I will bring more useful things.”

The children cling to her skirts, bidding her farewell, and Rhaena tries to contain her sudden urge to cry as she leaves the place.

“Shall we return to the palace, princess?” the royal guard asks.

“Not yet,” she sighs, “I want to walk around the city a bit.”

The man follows her silently and the girl tries to ease her heart as she thinks about the harsh reality she has just witnessed. She knew the city had many shortages, but she was not prepared to see them so directly. King's Landing had looked lovely on the occasions she had visited, although that was probably because they had embellished part of the city for the wedding. Now that she had ventured deeper into the heart of the town, she could see the reality.

“This place is not appropriate for you, my lady,” the guard warns her

“Why not?”

“Well it is… it is the Street of Silk, my lady.”

“Oh,” Rhaena stops abruptly and looks curiously at the establishments that, in the light of day, seem quite ordinary.

The famous Street of Silk. Women wearing the most revealing dresses she has ever seen emerge from one of the houses, laughing and holding glasses while hugging a clearly drunk man. The man touches them shamelessly and they do not protest, rather they respond to his caresses while they continue laughing and then enter another of the houses.

“We should go back to the palace, princess”

Rhaena nods and they return to the carriage. During the ride, her mind can't help but return to the scene on Silk Street. And the many establishments she had seen. Were they all brothels? Were they all packed at night, offering forbidden pleasures to men? Had Aemond frequented any of these places? Did he still frequent them even now?

Doubt grows inside her like poison ivy. The prince had assured her that distractions were things of the past, but was he keeping his word? Or was that why he no longer called her to his chambers? Perhaps he preferred the more experienced touch of his lover. Rhaena feels her heart race as she considers the possibility that she had been a disappointment to Aemond in the marriage bed. Was that why he avoided her? Had the novelty of possessing her been so dull after a couple of times that he needed something more? Had she failed?

“We are already at the Fortress, Madam”

Rhaena gets out of the carriage and advances through the castle without even looking where she is going.

“There you are!” Marianne’s arms suddenly encircle her and her friend’s squeal of excitement stops the thoughts that are gnawing at her insides. “I was looking for you,” her lady continues, “Oh Rhaena! The prince Daeron asked me to be his wife.”

“What?” she gasps, surprised, “How… how did it happen?”

Rhaena tries to act surprised even though she expected it to happen because, after all, Aemond had assured her that she didn’t have to worry about it anymore.

Just as he assured you that there would be no one else but you, she thinks.

And, if he had kept his promise to Daeron and Marianne, why wouldn’t he also keep his promise to never visit his former lover again?

Yes, her doubts were unfounded. They had to be, she thinks as she watches her friend’s smile, pleased by the betrothal, and making plans about the wedding, the dress and the decoration of the sept. “Prince Aemond will announce our betrothal soon,” Marianne beams, “But you mustn’t tell anyone until then.”

“Yes, yes, of course,” Rhaena beams back, “I am so happy for you. And that we can still be together.”

“It is amazing, is it not?” Her lady’s honey-colored eyes fill with unshed tears, “And we will be family! Our children will be cousins ​​and grow up together.”

Rhaena giggles and tries to push her doubts aside, letting herself be carried away by the idyllic picture her lady paints for her.

@user05152535456 @pugetprincess @draftswriting @hopefulnovelwritingland @maymunahar @niocel @goldenjoyboyy @gracelessbeach @jenmakeusin10 @dagma18 @atargcvnt @iidontgiveafuckuniverse @ammo23 @qyburnsghost @ithoughtulikedme @avidreader73 @feyresqueen @zeroinetoheroine @dragontwinsfireandblood

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[chimeraacademy-comic]

An Adventurer's Ever After

Alacrity stared at the three story house before them, not quite comprehending what Leilani was telling them. He looked at her, looked at the house and then looked at her again. It looked like the kind of house that he and his sister Maggie would have rented a room in while staying in the capital.

Well… would have rented a room if they were staying for a month or two and had the coin to rent a room from an elderly lady who lived in said house instead of some shady landowner who brought up a bunch of rundown buildings in the Lower District.

“Leilani,” Aasim breathed, the half-orc being the party’s consistent voice of reason, “How in the Den Mother’s good graces did you manage to buy this place?”

Everyone but Wilhelm looked at Leilani, which told Alacrity that Wilhelm had known about this (probably) from the start. The unassuming human woman brushed a loose lock of hair behind her ear.

“Wilhelm helped,” she explained.

“But Leilani did all the business,” Wilhelm interjected, excitement leaked into his voice as he continued on, “I just sent coin whenever I could to her to invest back into her father’s potion shop.”

“You mean the father who is also a drunk?” Maggie asked skeptically.

The rogue of the party did not add that Leilani’s father would have pissed the coin away, literally and figuratively, before investing it back into the shop. It was a sore spot for Leilani to have cared so deeply about her great-grandfather’s legacy, and yet not be given the educational chance to actually run it. Everything Leilani knew, she begged and stole. She begged the temples to teach her to read and write, and stole her father’s books to teach herself the art of potion making. Everything Leilani learned after that was purely by luck. Whether that was the old shopkeep next door teaching her inventory, Wilhelm teaching her about more advanced potions or Quinny deciding that her not knowing the law of merchants was simply unacceptable.

And that rankled Leilani, to know if it weren’t for luck she wouldn’t have made her father’s shop the success it was. So it was best to not mention her drunk, and business-lacking father.

Leilani sniffed, and turned up her nose snootily, “Not his coin, I opened an account with the local bank, and every ingredient, piece of glassware, and kit needed to make the potions was paid for through that account. I have the receipts to prove it, and provided my father with the appropriate amount of coin to pay off the shop.”

“Wait… what?” Aasim blinked, “You bought your father’s shop? He agreed to that? I thought he was one of those… weird people who believe everything should go through the male line?”

“Most humans believe everything should go through the male line, they’re not orcs,” Alacrity corrected Aasim, “Or elves… and I think gnomes do the same thing too?”

Aasim snorted at this, “I never understood why, you never know who the father is, but you always know who the mother is!”

“Why does that matter? You people get married like the rest of us!”

Leilani coughed at this, “Getting back on track? About the house, do you all like it?”

“Like it!” Echo crowed at Leilani.

“Yes, yes, what Echo said,” Maggie nodded absently, “Kind of a lot of room for just one person, but I guess it’s to make a statement right? To the other merchants?”

If Leilani was going to play with the heavy hitters of the merchant world, she was going to have to look the part.

“Wilhelm, you didn’t tell them?” Leilani stomped her foot and glared at the party’s artificer.

Wilhelm threw back his head and laughed as he rubbed the back of his head, “I wanted it to be a surprise! I didn’t forget to tell them why we were coming back to the capital, not at all!”

There was a beat of silence before Alacrity deadpanned, “You’re a terrible liar.”

Leilani sighed as she rubbed her forehead as Echo repeated Alacrity’s words. Aasim rolled his eyes so hard, Alacrity was thought it was surprising they didn’t rattle around in his skull.

“So what was Willy supposed to tell us?” Alacrity finally questioned.

“The house is for all of us, me, Wilhelm, and the rest of you Inseparables,” she answered with a huff, her hands on her hips, “Honestly, you all didn’t really think you’d go your separate ways once all your adventuring was done did you? You’ve all pretty much been living out of each other’s back pockets for the past seven… eight years now.”

“Leilani… love,” Alacrity raised a brow, “We’re not gonna retire any time soon,” his street accent peeked through as he said this, “We’ve got many years ahead, I’m in my prime!”

“But Aasim and Echo are not,” Wilhelm interjected quietly, “Sorry,” he glanced at the duo he was talking about, “That’s rude of me-”

“-Don’t. Don’t be sorry for telling the hard truth,” Aasim held up a hand to stop Wilhelm’s apology, “I know I should have mentioned this sooner, but well, you’ve saved me the trouble.”

“What are you talking about? You’re not old!” Maggie blurted out, “And Echo was only a year younger than Alacrity and me when we all met, and we were 17!”

Aasim looked at Maggie with an almost resigned sadness to him. Echo looked at Aasim for a moment before she began to climb his large form. With practice that came from years of working with him, she scaled up until she rested upon his shoulder.

“Echo! Old! Don’t be-” she stopped and used a feathered finger to trail down her cheek like there had been a tear.

“Kenkus on average, live to be 60 years of age,” Wilhelm explained, “Echo was older than you, technically speaking, still is  actually.”

“And don’t forget I already have full grown children,” Aasim reminded, “I’m going to be 40 next year.”

Maggie made a face like she had bit into a particularly sour pickled lemon. She looked at all of them and asked.

“So we’re retiring?”

“Think of it more as… hmm… What do those halflings call it? Finding a work life balance,” Wilhelm acknowledged, “After all, there are advantages to staying in the capital. We can finally join an adventurer’s guild like Aasim keeps complaining about.”

“We should have done it five years ago.”

“This puts us near some major temple libraries and Echo can practice more academic magic.”

“Magic!”

“We don’t have to spend coin on inns when we’re not in the middle of a job.”

“That would be cheaper…” Maggie mused.

“And it would make it easier to accept jobs people would want to hire us for now that we have a reputation.”

“Eh… true, those would be higher paying and Quinny would be happy… well not happy, happy, but it would be easier to know if we could take a job or not,” Alacrity mused.

“And we can relax more, after all isn’t that the dream of every adventurer?” Wilhelm asked them all, “With a home that is ours-”

“Technically it’s Leilani’s house, we’re just gonna all be freeloaders here,” Alacrity corrected once more.

“No, our house, well…” Leilani giggled like a school girl, “Wilhelm’s and my home if you want to be technically, but you’re all his adventuring party, so it’s still our home.”

“But I’m sure Wilhelm gave you that coin without strings,” Aasim pointed out and gave Wilhelm a look that said, he better have.

“Oh he did!  But we’re getting married… Wilhelm,” Leilani threw him a look, “You did tell them we’re getting married right?”

Wilhelm stared and attempted to give the party (and his fiancé) the wide eyed innocent look, “I absolutely meant to tell them over dinner tonight and did not forget sweetie.”

No one bought it for a moment.

[goodolreliablejake]

I've had a thought on Game Theory and MatPat ever since I watched Big Joel's video on some of his film theories, and I guess this is the last chance to share it with any relevancy.

Game Theory was really important to me at some point, even as I increasingly saw the flaws. I fantasized about being MatPat: being a conventionally-attractive, able-bodied theater kid/science nerd with the full American Dream house-family dealio. I think that, whatever criticisms you may have, the videos have always been more harmless than not. They were like candy, and I enjoyed them as such.

But, at times there has been an undercurrent of something weird, something more nefarious. I first noticed it with his Scott Cawthon apologia.

After the news broke about the FNAF creator donating huge sums of money to support the campaign of Donald Trump and other conservative politicians, there was a huge backlash, especially from LGBT. Fan gave Scott Cawthon money, and he used that money to cause harm to them and theirs. MatPat's response is some centrist BS about how it wasn't about homophobia for Cawthon, it was about "national defense" (which is also bad for different reasons, and at best paints Cawthon as apathetic to the harm he's causing), and how even though it's okay to feel betrayed, it doesn't mean we should stop supporting the games, because the fan community has grown larger than one man.

As someone whose brand is deeply entwined with FNAF, the financial incentives for The Game Theorists are obvious; they weren't about to stop working with this franchise or its creator, they didn't want to tarnish their reputation by admitting past fault, and they needed to keep the cash cow rolling. So, they worked backwards from those conclusions to rationalize those decisions to their audience.

Then there are the more mundane gripes with the theorist channels: that videos are churned out so rapidly that they make sloppy errors, that they primarily advertise to children (with all the ethical ickiness that entails), that they use content from small creators without giving proper credit or linking to the sources, that the videos are overloaded with ads, usually including a paid sponsorship, several minutes of shilling their own store, and the usual youtube ads on top.

I think all of this speaks to the channels' underlying philosophy, and it's the philosophy of liberalism, by which I mean that marriage between capitalism and democracy. On the one hand, this is a moneymaking venture. It always has to be about making as much money as possible. But on the other hand, it needs to be (or seem, or allow the creators to feel) moral, and so the result is a view of the world where, yes, the company is trying to squeeze out as much money as possible, but also them getting more money is a good thing that benefits everyone. They do charity streams. They employ people. They "educate." "Greed, for lack of a better word, is good."

I'm not just guessing at the motives here. Matpat has been transparent about Game Theory's Origin Story on multiple occasions. It's part of the narrative that justifies the channels' existence. At some point, Matpat pursued theater as a career. In college, he got his first taste of something like poverty, struggling to get by, camping out at McDonald's with its free refills and wifi (a life I've also lived at times and perhaps the origin of the Diet Coke fixation). And it scared the hell out of him. I don't think it could have had that kind of traumatic effect if he had not lived in privilege until that point. He didn't want to feel financially insecure ever again.

The solution was to create the Game Theory channel as a bridge into a much more lucrative career as a corporate consultant. Creating a popular, financially-viable youtube channel allowed him to sell himself as a social media expert to out of touch corporations. He's not really hiding that he's a sellout, just arguing that selling out is a good thing.

All in all, I can't bring myself to hate Game Theory. It had its place. But neither can I celebrate it, or look back with unconditional nostalgia. The problems with Game Theory are the problems with Youtube and the problems of capitalism. We compromise a little to survive, we compromise everything to make it big, and saddest of all are those who sell out and get nothing for it. The channels will continue without Matpat, and if the channels die, there will be countless other identical creators ready to take their place.

[inanhourofdreaming]

Modern education is not a failure. This is such a fucking weird, awful opinion to even have for an educator?! Gains in literacy levels alone from before and after formal education existed disprove this. 100 years ago worldwide literacy levels were literally 12%. They’re now about 87%. That is pretty much entirely thanks to formal education. Before the public formal education system, if you were poor, and I cannot stress this enough — NO ONE WOULD BOTHER TO TEACH YOU TO READ.

People know substantially more than they used to before we formalized our education systems. But there are things schools can do and things they can’t, and this is actually really important.

Schools cannot make kids “smarter”. People have general aptitudes (the best they can do at their peak given all possible supports) and that’s mostly based on genetics. The best school and teacher in the world cannot make every kid an Einstein. The world can make people less smart, though. Lead poisoning, poverty, lack of food, lack of sleep — and schools can (and do) play a really big role in protecting kids from those harms, too, by providing safe places to be, free meals, time to socialize with their peers (as opposed to, say, living on their farm and only interacting with their family), and exposure to ideas and skills beyond what their parents knew. They also teach them how to read and write. If you are reading this right now? It’s very likely because the formal education system TAUGHT YOU HOW. Or taught your parents how.

What schools, in my opinion, should not be, is the place where students are inculcated into whatever social ideas are most prominent at the time, and that’s where OP is just very clearly going with their own opinion and not in anything based on research. Schools are meant to teach critical thinking, frameworks, methods, and the hard skills like reading comprehension and math that are how we develop and support more complex thoughts. How best to do that via pedagogy has been and will continue to be a conversation. Yes, you should try and choose books that kids find interesting so they’ll enjoy the process more. But can anyone - literally anyone - who has been out in the real world with a real job honestly say “well, you get to just do whatever you want with no consequences out here, so learning how to do work you aren’t interested in has no value”?

Life is hard, and we need people to do lots of boring, difficult jobs because that is literally the foundation everything you have is built on. Food, water, clothes, music — you would have very few of these things without people doing boring jobs they don’t always love or find interesting in a capitalist society. No other kind of society has ever actually succeeded outside of very small, transient examples. There are plenty of bad things about the capitalist system we currently have, but no one has ever proposed a better system in any kind of detail OR been able to prove it would work. The quality of life of a poor American only looks horrible to you because you are comparing it to the life of a rich American, and not comparing it to the actual relevant situation, which is a poor person before formalized education and modern capitalism existed. Those people, on the whole, simply died after difficult, often short, deeply labor intensive lives of backbreaking work.

Schools were never really meant to be morality factories. You only HAVE schools because of capitalism, and the point of them has always been so you can have a better chance at financially surviving in a world that has always been a challenge. They give you a fighting chance when before you would have had none. You should no more want your school “teaching” whatever kind of complex social frameworks are currently in vogue than you’d want them teaching your kids what religion to believe. That’s not what they’re for. Teaching you how to think is not the same as teaching you what to think.

I remember thinking this shit when I was in high school and college. “when am I ever going to use this?” “Why don’t people just do XYZ?” And guess what? I didn’t know WTF I was talking about because I hadn’t had nearly the opportunity to delve into the complex and frustrating realities of the real world, where very little is ever simple and everything is a complex system.

The thing is, what kids want, and what is best for them, are often different things. I had a friend who, when she was a child, had a mild lazy eye. Her doctor told her she had to wear a patch every day on the other eye to train the muscles in the lazy eye better. She hated the patch and didn’t like to wear it because it was uncomfortable. Well, guess what? Her mother didn’t make her wear it, and now her eye is still kind of fucked. Do you think she’s happy about that? Of course not. Because she was a child, and her mother wasn’t, and should have known better. The discomfort at the time would have been worth it to her now. A lot of school turned out to be like that for me.

The world is not a perfect place, but it makes me absolutely insane when people act like we aren’t incredibly, unbelievably better off than we used to be because of the systems we’ve built. No one is saying don’t try to continue to improve things, but these kinds of purely political takes are not based in evidence.

A Twitter Thread from David Bowles:

[Text transcript at the end of the screenshots]

I'll let you in on a secret. I have a doctorate in education, but the field’s basically just a 100 years old. We don’t really know what we’re doing. Our scholarly understanding of how learning happens is like astronomy 2000 years ago.

Most classroom practice is astrology.

Before the late 19th century, no human society had ever attempted to formally educate the entire populace. It was either aristocracy, meritocracy, or a blend. And always male.

We’re still smack-dab in the middle of the largest experiment on children ever done.

Most teachers perpetuate the “banking” model (Freire) used on them by their teachers, who likewise inherited it from theirs, etc.

Thus the elite “Lyceum” style of instruction continues even though it’s ineffectual with most kids.

What’s worse, the key strategies we’ve discovered, driven by cognitive science & child psychology, are quite regularly dismissed by pencil-pushing, test-driven administrators. Much like Trump ignores science, the majority of principals & superintendents I’ve known flout research.

Some definitions:

Banking model --> kids are like piggy banks: empty till you fill them with knowledge that you're the expert in.

Lyceum --> originally Aristotle's school, where the sons of land-owning citizens learned through lectures and research.

Things we (scholars) DO know:

-Homework doesn't really help, especially younger kids.

-Students don't learn a thing from testing. Most teachers don't either (it's supposed to help them tweak instruction, but that rarely happens).

-Spending too much time on weak subjects HURTS.

Do you want kids to learn? Here's something we've discovered: kids learn things that matter to them, either because the knowledge and skills are "cool," or because .... they give the kids tools to liberate themselves and their communities.

Maintaining the status quo? Nope.

Kids are acutely aware of injustice and by nature rebellious against the systems of authority that keep autonomy away from them.

If you're perpetuating those systems, teachers, you've already freaking lost.

They won't be learning much from you. Except what not to become. Sure, you can wear them down. That's what happened to most of you, isn't it? You saw the hideous flaw in the world and wanted to heal it. But year after numbing year, they made you learn their dogma by rote.

And now many of you are breaking the souls of children, too.

For what?

It's all smoke and mirrors. All the carefully crafted objectives, units and exams.

WE. DON'T. KNOW. HOW. PEOPLE. LEARN.

We barely understand the physical mechanisms behind MEMORY. But we DO know kids aren't empty piggy banks. They are BRIMMING with thought.

The last and most disgusting reality? The thing I hear in classroom after freaking classroom?

Education is all about capitalism.

"You need to learn these skills to get a good job." To be a good laborer. To help the wealthy generate more wealth, while you get scraps.

THAT is why modern education is a failure.

Its basic premise is monstrous.

"Why should I learn to read, Dr. Bowles?"

Because reading is magical. It makes life worth living. And being able to read, you can decode the strategies of your oppressors & stop them w/ their own words.

[celestial-blade]

Hey!

hi :) I'm Jazzie (23), I'm autistic and ADHD, and I enjoy things more than a normal amount. I write a bunch of little stories around what the fixation wants.

I am also happy to take asks and requests :)

My main fandoms, in no particular order are:

Stardew Valley

Disney's Descendants

Ninjago

Star Wars (see my Star Wars blog @goldleader-eb43 for all things 'Everything Upward' particularly)

select Marvel content (GotG and Spider-Man mostly)

Disney's Haunted Mansion

Assorted anime (jjk, demon slayer, hxh)

If you are a minor please do not interact with my adult content, or privately with me.

I won't post whole fics on Tumblr, just excerpts and concepts, but you can find me on Wattpad and AO3 where my whole fics will be posted. You can also find me and many fic playlists on my Spotify. Below is a masterlist of everything I've posted, here and elsewhere...

Full Works

My Masterlist for oneshots and smaller works is here!

(List frequently under construction)

Everything Upward (Star Wars)

In which a hopeful pilot is faced with her wildest dreams and darkest nightmares faster than life itself. More on this can be found on my other blog @goldleader-eb43

Wattpad | AO3

Tales of Auradon (Descendants)

After Mal almost chose to return to the Isle of the Lost, King Ben noticed the flaw in his system. Working with Neverland Academy and Camelot Heights, his aim to invite the children of villains off the Isle of the Lost turns true to giving them a place to call home. Change however, is rarely a straight and simple course. These ten stories follow the happily ever afters of citizens of the United States of Auradon, new and old. (Plotted and set prior to Rise of Red.)

Wattpad | AO3

Perfect Storms (1) | Captain's Orders (2) | Fragile Curiosity (3) | Spring's Blooms (4) | Against The Tide (5) | I am a Lost Boy (6) | Wildflower (7) | Privateers (8) | Death's Daughter (9) | Mercator Starlight (10)

With Love, Juliet (Marvel's Ultimate Spider-Man, cartoons)

A change in circumstance sends England-born Juliet Evans to New York to finish her high school education, but in a city of superheroes comes high house insurance prices, high stakes, and a high chance of danger. (In which we get some potentially-funny cartoon style chapters about the Spidey crew. Nothing here is too serious, I am simply here for the vibes.)

Wattpad | AO3

[Coming soon...] (Ninjago)

I honestly don't have a name for this series yet but uhhhh

Rock Steady//Get Up!

Left in Embers//Out of Ashes

Laws of e(Motion)//Synesthete//Potential Dividers

Popular With A Capital P

Grass is Greener

Turning Tides

My Way (Disney's Haunted Mansion)

Upon waking in an unfamiliar house, and no idea of who she is let alone where, Esme is presented with a choice. Accept ignorance to who she was and live a new afterlife in Gracey Manor, or discover her past life and recover her memories by figuring out how she died. Her journey of self discovery uncovers the truth about her premature death, changing the lives of everyone she left behind for good. (Undergoing rewrites)

Wattpad | AO3

[kaitlynn4628]

Blog 5- Incarceration and Freedom 

In the story “Walking Away” by N.K. Jemisin is set in a world where “Masters”, some type of aliens that have fallen from the sky waiting for the chance to take over humans, have done so. Not only have they been able to conquer human kinds but even shown the power of establishing structures to perpetuate this killing of innocent lives, and other humans keeping up the status quo. They do this by silencing outside voices, not allowing people to imagine outside of their own lived experiences and education. The main protagonist has only left the facility once and been stripped away from nature, forced to give up kids' lives to suffice this system that seems to serve the people in power and treat these kids as prisoners and thought as disposable bodies. This mirrors our prison systems that do not focus on reform and enhancing the knowledge of people who have been incarcerated. Instead, there is money in prison systems that rich white people can grow their riches from, at the expense of black and brown bodies. It is so normalized to keep building prison systems and locking away people which strips them of their humanity. It reminds me of the short film Professor Due posted about being lost. Her main protagonist is going to a retreat with her office workers and instead gets stuck in this never-ending cycle on this trail laughing death figures and her cousin's bloody prison uniform scare her into waking up from this dream and realizing that her job perpetuates the cycle of brutality and a new form of Jim Crow. She has to call her aunt at the end to make sure that she can change her fate if she continues down this path. Capitalism is the root of all evil with people proofing the menu over human lives and that the people in power don’t want to see an equitable world for black and brown folks because the system that this country has been founded upon has been working perfectly for them ever since its inception. Both of these works of art touch on the topic of imprisonment in different ways showing the detrimental effects to a person working in a field that continues this perpetuation of making money off of imprisonment. One of Both stories shows a change at the end geared towards new beginnings and revolution, that both characters have found a change of heart and education. In the short story though Sadie can find the word “revolution” and is able to see a world where it is equitable and the masters aren’t controlling society. We as a society must imagine what it's like to live in a world where it isn’t just profit in imprisonment but reforms and new worldly structures. 

Word count 468 

[unilifeabroadcareersolution]

Benefits of Paid Education in Austria

Unilife Abroad Career Solution

Center of Europe

It is very hard to get a more conveniently located country to explore central and eastern Europe. Eight different countries in Europe share Austria’s border. Thanks to the efficient and well-connected rail network, they are all incredibly easy to get to. Bus travel is a better option for those budget-conscious students.

Chance To Learn German

German is not the most widely spoken language in the world. When it comes to finding a job, having German in your back pocket is only going to help, especially those of you in the automotive, financial and textile industries. It opens up the opportunity of working in Austria and Germany and makes you more attractive to employers from your home country. Most universities in Austria, you will get a chance to take a German class as part of your semester credits which makes the language even easier to pick up.

Most Courses are Taught in English

Thank god, right? If you wanted to take advantage of the chance to learn German, but having all my lectures in a foreign language might have been a step too far. International students make up a huge percentage of those enrolled at universities in Austria, especially in comparison to other European countries. So, it makes sense for the universities to teach in English and it’s even more common at masters level.

 You’ll find safety and security

Austria stands out as one of the safest countries globally, with a low crime rate and robust social security measures. This peaceful environment provides residents with peace of mind, even amidst global uncertainties like political unrest and armed conflicts. Additionally, Austria’s strong rule of law and well-developed infrastructure contribute to its reputation as a haven for residents and visitors alike.

 High-Quality Education

Austria is known for its excellent education system, with universities ranked among Europe’s best. This means you can receive a top-notch education while enjoying city life . Austria has a long tradition of higher education, using state-of-the-art research and an ever-growing number of degree programmes, offering many opportunities for would-be students. These higher .education institutions are not just restricted to the capital, Vienna and can be found right across the country. 

Unilife abroad career solution

Studying abroad is an important procedure, but it is no longer a difficult one. A good study abroad consultant assists students by advising them on the best time to apply for admission to a particular university. We advise Indian students who want to study abroad.

Contact us : 8428440444 , 8428999090 , 8608777070

Mail id : anagha@unilifeabroad.com , diya@unilifeabroad.com

[thegreatamericanfacebookstatus]

it’s an illegitimate court appointed by a treasonous criminal. why should they get to tell us what to do? how to live? who gets to be a person with agency, who gets the rights everyone deserves? when a gay person is refused service, when a Black person doesn't get into college because the committe prefers people who superficially look like themselves? who gets to be educated? who gets to know their own body, answers to what’s happening to them? who gets to have their health? the supreme court says, only white men.

no. toes clenched, knuckles fist, screaming from a pit of rage, NO. the corporations and christofascists are stealing our future. what gives them power? the will of the people the constitution serves. organizing scares them, withholding our labor until we get the system we deserve. it can be done. it has to be done, or else everyone will die of climate disasters. some things are still preventable. a future is possible.

the police in cop cities serve property, not people. american social safety nets have been being disemboweled since the 70s, but the black panthers made headway, so we have to look to their legacy. revolution is possible. this is the moment of musk and his cronies recognizing the threat an organized population poses, where people go and how quickly we can regroup against what we must recognize as an active fucking enemy. even if everything might seem fine on a friday, the machine of petrochemical-powered extractive fascist capitalism takes a child and a bird and your life. all of our lives.

organizing means meeting people, forming connections, figuring out the common causes and demands you fight for. fight for the chance of ever seeing a beach again, imo.

[hightechinfluencer]

The Quest for Viral Content!

The statement, “I want you to make a viral video for us,” is one of the worst requests I get from clients. The truth is, creating a viral video is as unpredictable as winning the lottery. The very essence of a viral video lies in its ability to organically capture people’s attention and be shared beyond anyone’s control. However, while we can’t guarantee virality, there are strategies that can increase the chances of a video gaining significant traction.

Trend Hunting: One crucial aspect is keeping up with trends and timing. Social media moves at a rapid pace, but by staying aware of emerging trends and capitalizing on them, you can create video content that has the potential to soar. Platforms like Twitter provide valuable insights into widely used hashtags, which can be leveraged to generate content before the trend fades. 

Flagpole Content: Additionally, you can plan content around seasonal events such as Christmas, The Oscars, or Comicon, getting ahead of the curve and aligning your videos with topics that will soon be in the public eye.

Fandoms: Another powerful approach is tapping into cult followings or fandoms. People have a natural inclination to engage with content related to things they love. By creating comedy sketches or themed videos centered around popular topics, you can pique the interest of these devoted communities. I experienced significant success with a video where I recreated the first level of Super Mario as a 360 3D experience. With nearly 15 million views in just a year, the content’s connection to a widely adored subject played a significant role in its triumph.

It’s crucial to keep in mind that while these strategies can enhance your chances of achieving virality, there are no guarantees. The viral phenomenon is influenced by a combination of factors, including timing, luck, and the ever-evolving preferences of online audiences. By employing these techniques, however, you can optimize your video’s potential to gain attention and engagement.

Quality, It has to be good!: Quality is crucial when it comes to creating content. It’s disheartening to see that a significant portion of the content uploaded to platforms like YouTube falls short in terms of production value. Many videos suffer from poor audio, subpar filming, or lackluster storytelling, particularly when it comes to individuals attempting to gain fame as influencers. To truly succeed and captivate an audience, it’s crucial for content creators to take their craft seriously and invest in their content.

For those who are committed to producing high-quality content, I highly recommend allocating resources and time to improve various aspects of their videos. This can involve spending significant hours perfecting the thumbnail, which plays a crucial role in attracting viewers. Additionally, meticulous analysis of video analytics for each upload can provide valuable insights into what aspects worked well and what could be improved. Treating content creation as a business requires dedication and attention to detail, and this commitment ultimately shines through in the resulting content.

By prioritizing quality and investing in their craft, content creators can distinguish themselves from the sea of mediocre videos and establish a strong presence. Viewers appreciate well-produced content, and their engagement and loyalty are often won over by the effort put into delivering a polished and compelling experience. Ultimately, a serious approach to content creation pays off in terms of audience satisfaction, growth, and success in the ever-competitive digital landscape.

Just a side note, there is the style of purposely bad that it becomes good again. Companies like Adult Swim and Funny or Die do really well with this kind of content. 

E.V.S., which stands for Educational, Visually Stunning, and Storytelling, represents three essential elements that your content should possess to keep your audience engaged. Each of these components serves a distinct purpose in creating great content that resonates with viewers.

Educational content fulfills the needs of individuals seeking information or guidance. For example, when you’ve searched for a tutorial on fixing something on YouTube, you’ve witnessed the effectiveness of educational content. Providing valuable insights, tips, or knowledge in a clear and informative manner can greatly appeal to your audience’s desire for learning and problem-solving.

Storytelling is a powerful tool for captivating and entertaining your viewers. Even in something as seemingly straightforward as a music video, there is often a narrative component that draws audiences in. Humans have an inherent inclination for storytelling, and weaving narratives into your content can create emotional connections, spark curiosity, and make your content more memorable.

The visually stunning aspect requires technical skill and craftsmanship. As a designer, you understand the challenges of creating visually captivating pieces. Visual appeal can be achieved through artistic composition, cinematography, editing techniques, or visually striking graphics. It’s this element that can truly elevate your content, making it visually engaging and leaving a lasting impression on your audience.

A great example of a video that encompasses all three elements is the Super Kind series commissioned by the Los Angeles Metro. This series educates viewers about public transit etiquette while delivering visually stunning visuals and incorporating storytelling elements to engage and entertain the audience. It serves as a testament to how combining education, visual appeal, and storytelling can create exceptional content that resonates with viewers.

By incorporating at least one of these three elements into your content, you can ensure that it stands out, captures attention, and keeps your audience engaged. Whether you educate, tell a story, or create visually stunning visuals, these components can make your content compelling and memorable.

High-effort Content: H.E.C. has gained significant popularity in recent years. This type of content involves creating projects or videos that require a level of effort and dedication far beyond what the average person would typically undertake. This approach has been instrumental in the success of content creators like MrBeast, who has become one of the biggest YouTubers in the world.

High-effort content stands out because it goes above and beyond what viewers typically expect. It often involves ambitious challenges, complex projects, or extravagant concepts that captivate and engage audiences. These types of videos require meticulous planning, significant time investment, and often involve collaboration with others.

What sets high-effort content apart is its ability to capture viewers’ attention and leave a lasting impression. It demonstrates a level of commitment, creativity, and execution that goes beyond the ordinary. Viewers are often drawn to the novelty, excitement, and sense of awe that comes from witnessing these grand endeavors.

However, it’s important to note that high-effort content might not be feasible or suitable for every creator or every niche. It requires substantial resources, time, and expertise. As a content creator, it’s essential to assess your own capabilities, resources, and audience expectations to determine the level of effort you can reasonably invest in your content.

One of the best examples of high-effort content is Mr.Beast. 

Marketing: Not sharing your content after releasing it is like doing homework but not turning it in. Sharing and marketing your video is crucial to ensure it reaches a wider audience and achieves the visibility it deserves. It’s important to allocate significant time and effort to promote your content after investing time in its creation. Here are some strategies to consider:

Identify relevant blogs and reviewers in your niche or industry and reach out to them. Sending your video to these influencers can help generate exposure and potentially lead to reviews or features that introduce your content to their audience.

Make use of various platforms and channels to share your video. Consider uploading it to video-sharing platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, or Dailymotion. Additionally, leverage social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn to share your video and engage with your target audience.

Utilize personal networks by sharing your video with family, friends, and colleagues. Encourage them to share it with their networks as well. Word-of-mouth can be a powerful tool in increasing the reach of your video.

Consider investing in advertising to boost the visibility of your content. Just as you invest in equipment and software for production quality, allocating a budget for targeted ads can help amplify the reach of your videos. By promoting your channel and content early on, you can attract a larger audience and potentially monetize your channel in the future.

Remember, the quality of your content should always be a priority. No amount of promotion can compensate for subpar content. Ensure your video is engaging, well-produced, and provides value to your target audience. By combining high-quality content with effective promotion strategies, you can maximize the chances of your video gaining traction and attracting a loyal audience.

Going viral is not guaranteed, and it’s important to acknowledge that it’s a combination of factors, including timing, luck, and the preferences of online audiences. Even if you believe your content is exceptional and on par with creators who garner millions of views, there’s no guarantee that it will receive the same level of attention.

It’s crucial to manage your expectations and understand that your audience may not love your content as much as you do. Everyone has different tastes and preferences, and reaching a broad audience can be a challenging task. However, by consistently applying the elements and strategies we’ve discussed, you can increase the chances of your content being seen and appreciated.

Persistence is key. Each video you create is an opportunity to refine your skills, engage with your audience, and improve your content’s visibility. Learn from each release, listen to feedback, and adapt your approach. Over time, as you continue to create and share content, you’ll gain insights into what resonates with your audience and refine your content accordingly.

Remember, success in content creation is not solely measured by achieving viral status. Building a dedicated and engaged community around your content can be just as valuable. Focus on creating meaningful connections with your audience, delivering value, and consistently improving your craft. With dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to continuous growth, you can increase the visibility and impact of your content over time.

You can reach me at my website or on Twitter.

[uboat53]

I always find it interesting when people talk about how racism is over. Racism is embedded into this country and I can prove it without much difficulty. SHORT RANT (TM) time.

CAPITAL FORMATION

Pretty much none of us entirely "earned" where we are in life. All of us were born to parents who had a certain amount of wealth and that wealth then defined what opportunities were available to us. Some of us were able, through a combination of work and luck, to take advantage of opportunities to change the economic situation of our birth, but most of us are pretty much still at the same economic level as our parents or maybe a step up or a single step down.

What upward movement does exist is made possible by capital formation. Essentially, someone earns money through labor, they then invest that money into something such as stocks, bonds, or real-estate, that grows in value, and that capital can then be leveraged to create further opportunities for economic growth such as education or starting a business.

That capital also gets passed down through generations on extremely favorable terms tax-wise, and creates generational wealth. Effectively, one generation's success can be passed down to the next, allowing them to accumulate further wealth in a sort of snowball effect.

THE DESTRUCTION OF BLACK CAPITAL

There is no one incident that we can point to and declare that this was when the capital formation of African-Americans was destroyed. Instead, the capital formation of African-Americans has suffered a death by a thousand cuts.

When African-Americans were lynched, their ability to develop wealth for the next generation was destroyed. When race riots drove African-Americans from their property, they lost their accumulated capital. When African-American neighborhoods were redlined and denied access to bank loans, it destroyed their ability to build capital in their homes. When African-American property was taken through eminent domain, their capital, and the opportunity that it could have provided, was lost.

At every step in American history, African-American families and individuals have been denied the kinds of opportunities that white families and individuals enjoyed. While white families were given free land in the American west, African-American land and property was taken, often with little or no justification.

RACE TODAY

Those who want to argue that racism is over often frame it as a problem of the past that has been solved, but it's not. The median white family today has nearly 8 times the wealth of the median African-American family [1], and that wealth translates into opportunity. Wealth can be leveraged to fund education or mortgaged to fund business investments, all of which provide the opportunity to gain further wealth.

Even if there were no further racism today, which is not remotely true, the legacy of centuries of accumulated wealth would ensure a massive difference in racial economic outcomes. Even a truly post-racial society will experience racism unless it addresses a long history of it.

CONCLUSION

People who argue that racism is in the past and that we exist in a post-racial society are attempting to lock in the generations of wealth that were accumulated under the system of racism.

Addressing the centuries of stolen generational capital is arguably going to be one of the hardest things we will have to do in order to actually get to a post-racial society, it may be the hardest thing we've ever done, but it's going to have to be done if we ever hope to live in a society where a person's worth is determined, to paraphrase Dr. King, not by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.

Attempting to short circuit that process and deny African-Americans any chance of recovering what was immorally taken from them isn't post-racial, it's the very definition of racism.

SOURCES

[1] https://www.federalreserve.gov/econres/notes/feds-notes/disparities-in-wealth-by-race-and-ethnicity-in-the-2019-survey-of-consumer-finances-20200928.html

[saltypersonapirate]

Best Study Abroad Consultants in Ahmedabad

Best Abroad Education Consultancy in Ahmedabad - Uniaz

Many Students after schooling, graduation and post-graduation wish to go abroad for higher studies to fulfill their dream. Mumbai is a fusion of stunningly modern high buildings, distinctive old-world charm architecture, cultural and traditional structures, and other things. Although the city is referred to as India's business capital, there is more to it, Mumbai is a city rich in history, culture, cuisine, theater, movies, nightlife, and many other things.

Most of them choose to pursue international careers and degrees from top colleges to become "self-reliant" and "live life on their terms." Because studying abroad will help to advance their professional chances, many students choose to pursue their higher education abroad to have the life they wished for in the future. For the reason to pursue higher education seeking for Best Study Abroad Consultants in Ahmedabad.

Planning a study abroad program is an exciting prospect, but it can also be a long process. From selecting a program to securing funding and visas, there are many things to consider before your departure. Fortunately, you don’t have to go through the process alone. There is an ever-growing number of professional study-abroad consultants in Mumbai who can provide invaluable support and guidance.

As you consider studying abroad, seeking Best Abroad Education Consultancy in Ahmedabad,

 The first step is to find a qualified consultant who can help guide you through the process. There are many consultants in Mumbai with extensive experience in helping students excel on their global journey. However, when selecting a consultant it is essential to find one who understands your specific academic and personal needs. It is important to ask questions about their background, certifications, and expertise to ensure the best possible fit.

With the help of a qualified and experienced study abroad consultant, you can make sure that the path to successful global education is smooth and stress-free. These professionals can help you understand the requirements and regulations of different countries, find the best universities to study in, and arrange for international scholarships. They can also guide visa applications and assist with the paperwork needed for studying abroad. These consultants can provide you with invaluable advice and support throughout the entire process to make sure you get the most out of your study abroad experience. Planning to study abroad is a big decision that can have a major impact on your future success.

One of the biggest and most well-known Best Abroad Education Consultancy in Ahmedabad,

 foreign education consultancies in western India are Univaz Overseas. Here, the student is given the best, most ethical and most affordable solutions. There is an ongoing sense of support for the student, starting with their initial counseling appointment and continuing with thorough pre-departure briefings. To fulfill their desire and goals to study abroad, we direct the students toward the best colleges and course alternatives for them based on their skills and qualifications.

.

[jeduka]

Reasons to Study Business in Switzerland

The economy of Switzerland compiles one of the world's most advanced free-market economies. You can immerse yourself in different, successful sectors such as finance, the tourism industry, or the food industry. At the same time, you would be amazed at the high level of innovation, quality, and sense of leadership that this country possesses. Not to mention the geographical advantages such as great climate and Central European location, which makes this place a wonder of business career opportunities. But as we know, everything starts with the quality of education that people receive. And Switzerland is far on top of the list when it comes to its educational system. 

Read on to understand the main reasons why studying business in Switzerland should be on your bucket list.

1. Cultural Diversity

If you ever wanted to learn four languages at a time, then studying in Switzerland will provide you with the chance to. They have four official languages consisting of French, Italian, German, and Rhaeto-Romanic, all of these while still having a population that speaks fluent English.

According to statistics from Diversities, Switzerland’s cultural and ethnic diversity derives from — 31% of the city’s population who are foreign nationals, 39% who are born abroad, and 61% of citizens who have a migration background. Being a pot of different cultures, Swiss is also the best place to learn about new perspectives and ideas. Overall, this means that the country attracts a network of different people to shape your nest of career opportunities.

2. It’s a global financial hub

Everyone wants to study things theoretically while still having the chance to have some practical knowledge of their field. If you’re studying business in Switzerland, rest assured that you are being educated in one of the world’s most important financial centers.

You will get to see everything you learn being brought to life. That would be through the advanced country financial markets, sound infrastructure, and the way Switzerland does international trade. After all, this country hosts the headquarters of the famous Swiss banks and a vast number of international companies.

3. Students can enjoy the Swiss quality of life

Zurich, the capital of Switzerland, is renowned as one of the richest and cleanest cities in the world. The whole country does not fall far behind on this standard. The quality of life that residents enjoy in Switzerland makes this country one of the best places to live in, according to US News and World Report Quality of life rankings.

This, due to the high level of income, the healthy lifestyle of work-life balance, and access to healthcare, education along with several other services. As a student, you’ll be happy to know that Mercer Quality of Living City Rankings also qualified this country as one of the safest ones to live in.

4. Home of Innovation

In an article from Swissinfo.ch, they mention how Switzerland scores particularly high in the category of knowledge and technology outputs. One measure of this is patent applications — and the Swiss have the highest ratio of European patent applications to population. Universities have a lot to do with this success, as they allow their students to involve in different innovative projects while providing spaces where scientists and entrepreneurs can meet. Overall, the Swiss are known for the following:

World-Class research institute

High profile green innovation projects

High Global innovation index

5. The high quality of education

What Swiss universities emphasize is certainly their quality of education. Swiss universities have a long background and history of existing, with a well-known reputation around the world. No less than seven Swiss universities are featured in the top 200 of QS World Rankings.

When it comes to benefiting from their exquisite academic programs, you don’t necessarily have to be Swiss to afford them. In fact, Switzerland is most notorious for its high standard of a publicly funded education system that is affordable for both Swiss and non-Swiss students.

All of these reasons we mentioned above provide you with sufficient knowledge of what to expect if you decide to study business in Switzerland. Or any other degree, as a matter of fact. You will have plenty of things to do and explore, while still building a solid educational background for your future.

Source: 

Study Abroad

International Student

Swiss Universities

[savage-rhi]

Immortal Shield  Chapter 46: Paradise (Epilogue)

**To read previous chapters, hit this link

Tagging: @seradyn​

The land outside of Gralea within the Uletham region was bustling with new life. Standing beside the Scepter, and looking outward to the plains, Caelan made note of the animals that were beginning to return to their native grounds. Ever since the magitek stronghold of this region had been disbanded, the number of critters doubled overnight. She was excited to report these findings to the nation's biologists. The clean-up initiative that Ardyn proposed months back was showing its efforts.

Caelan turned her head as she heard Ardyn approach. She smiled at him while her eyes carded over his body.

“Aren’t you a little too old to be playing in the mud?” Caelan playfully jabbed, laughing while Ardyn shot her a glare as he chuckled.

“Our child had other plans.” Ardyn sighed. He welcomed Caelan’s embrace, giving her a kiss. He loved that she could care less about his messy state if it meant displaying affection.

“So, how many animals have returned do you hypothesize?” Ardyn pulled away from Caelan, looking down at the notes she had jotted on her phone.

“I estimate around two hundred. That’s Dualhorns alone. I’d recommend we send a team over here to comb through. I’m curious if any waste from the stronghold seeped into the soil. There are patches where nothing grows. With the ice and snow being gone, plants should be thriving here.” Caelan explained. She raised a brow, hearing Ardyn laugh quietly to himself.

“What’s so humorous?”

“Oh nothing,” Ardyn teased. “I find it adorable how you take your studies seriously. I do rather miss when you were only my shield. I hate having to share you with the Conservation Committee.”

Caelan rolled her eyes, giving Ardyn a playful jab to his shoulder. He grabbed Caelan from behind, pulling her back to his chest, then peppered her neck with an onslaught of rapid kisses. He loved the way Caelan's laughter reverberated through her throat. Ardyn rest his nose against her skin, inhaling her scent.

“If you keep making fun of me about my educational pursuits, I’ll kick you to the couch.”

“We both know that never lasts for long,” Ardyn mused against her flesh. “You crave my presence as I do yours, empress.”

“Can you ever let me have a win?” Caelan sighed in defeat.

“Never.” Ardyn pressed a long kiss right below Caelan’s jawline. The soft moan that parted her lips sent a shiver down his legs. He backed off, knowing if he were to remain there was no chance of them making it back to the capital in time.

“Did you text Prompto and Cindy we will be joining them Saturday night?” Ardyn asked, venturing over to the driver's side of the Scepter. He looked forward to the drive back home, having not been behind the wheel in a long time.

“Yep! They’re still game for the concert. They warned me it might be packed. We should leave early that night to make it.” Caelan felt her excitement somewhat drain as she approached the passenger side of her car. Ardyn held a look of concern compared to a dog being kicked and still loving its owner. She tilted her head curiously at him.

“What’s on your mind?”

“Are you sure you want to go?” Ardyn asked. “You haven’t been feeling well. We can always postpone our date nights with them. I’m sure they’d be understanding.”

Caelan smiled, feeling herself lighten up. “There’s no way I’m missing Vote Abandon and The Phoenix Downs playing together! We only get to see Prompto and Cindy twice a month. The rest of the gang too if we’re lucky to catch a break.”

Ardyn sighed, shaking his head. He decided not to argue with Caelan regarding the matter. “I suppose your points are valid. Well, in that case, we should be heading back home to get ready. It’s a two-day flight to Cape Caem from Gralea. Will you do the honors and call our child back to the car?”

Caelan giggled, watching Ardyn smirk briefly. She nodded and went to the backseat door, opening it up. Putting her hands around her mouth to amplify her voice, Caelan took in a deep breath and then shouted.

“Susannah!”

A few moments later, the trotting sound of a chocobo could be heard. Several happy chirps and kwees left the obsidian-colored bird while she made her way to her owners from afar. Caelan crouched down, baby-talking the adolescent chick before coaxing her into the backseat. Once Susannah quieted her purrs and clicks, Ardyn started the Scepter up and Caelan joined the passenger side. They spent a good portion of the trip debating about a present to get for Noctis on his birthday.

A soft breeze touched the landscape of the coast. The air was warm, the cold season of Lucis had finally passed the baton to Spring. The honey smell of freshly bloomed sylleblossoms traveled up Caelan’s nose. She closed her eyes, soaking up the warmth. Peace didn’t remain for long. Bouts of laughter and chattering pulled Calean from her quiet sanctuary. She grinned wide, watching the most wholesome of scenes unfold.

Gladio was trying to wrangle Umbra and Pryna II. The two canines, one of shadow and light bounced with great jolly as they made circles around the crownsguard commander.  Pryna II, whose fine hairs shined like starlight, eventually gave up the chase with her older companion. She settled for trying to steal Gladio’s plate of food, eventually bringing him onto his knees. Caelan couldn’t stop herself from laughing, seeing the younger dog steal a morsel followed by Gladio’s chagrin.

Lunafreya was finishing the last of Seraphii’s braids. The queen beckoned Gladio to be more reasonable with Pryna II and her antics. The quick banter ceased upon Umbra randomly jumping at Prompto while he readied his camera. Lunafreya quickly called Pryna away while Prompto laughed it off, going back to cleaning off the lenses.

Seraphii glanced at Caelan, making an exaggerated grin, and waved rapidly. Caelan returned the gesture, sticking her tongue out. The action had Seraphii giggle until she was distracted by Ignis bringing over more food. She couldn’t wait to get her hands on her favorite seafood dish. Lunafreya made a remark about her being just like her father, to which Seraphii shyly rubbed the back of her neck while Noctis looked upon his daughter with admiration.

Ignis passed a plate to Noctis, grabbing his attention away from the queen and his kid. Caelan could overhear both the men arguing playfully over the king wanting to take a fishing trip soon and have Ignis cook everything. There were many witty lines and sarcastic jabs that played out between the two. Ignis won in the end, much to Noctis’s disappointment. It didn’t seem to bother him in the end while Noctis settled more into his chair underneath the tree. He made it a point to look at everyone and everything around him. Never one to break a kingly habit of ensuring the people who surrounded himself were seen.

Noctis raised a glass of wine to Caelan, giving a nod and a grin. She raised hers back and smiled at him. While the king sipped away at his beverage, Caelan put hers down upon the picnic blanket Ardyn and she brought over to celebrate the king's birthday.

-----------

Caelan’s heart soared with the purest of admiration while watching Ardyn from afar playfully chasing Noctis’s son, Cordis. The boy was a spitting image of his father, and had the longest name ever. Cordis Octavian Lucis Caelum. To Ardyn and Caelan, he was their little “Otto”. Ever since Caelan and Ardyn had arrived from Nifheim to celebrate the king's day, the four-year-old was joined at the hip to his respective “Entee Cahl” and “Ardy”.

Caelan lost count of how long Cordis and Ardyn had been playing together at the beach. The two had a strong bond. One that made Caelan elated. She knew how much Ardyn adored kids despite his not-so-savory comments at times towards them back home.

The four-year-old screamed with joy as Ardyn grabbed him from behind and hoisted him up into the air. Ardyn spun the boy around, laughter and high-pitched giggles intertwined. Ardyn brought Cordis into a warm embrace and put him back down. Lunafreya soon called for them to return from their play as lunch was ready. Ardyn extended his hand down to Cordis; little fingers that could barely fit in his palm grasped his calloused hand while Ardyn guided them both back to their families.

As soon as Umbra locked his gaze on Cordis, the dog barked and playfully wagged his tail. The older canine jumped at Cordis and tackled him. The child found purchase grasping onto Ardyn’s left leg for dear life. Keeping him from falling over and onto his face. Ardyn steadied himself from the sudden change in posture, laughing while Cordis playfully commanded: “Ardy” to stop the “fuzzy munsta” from getting him.

Prompto began taking photos of the little bout of controlled chaos that was going on, and Caelan decided she too would snap a pic with her phone. It wasn’t the greatest of pictures, yet it captured the essence of these people she had grown to love.

“Entee! Entee!”

Caelan looked up from her phone, setting it aside while Cordis rushed over to her and wrapped his small arms around her for a hug. Caelan chuckled, peppering the four-year-olds cheeks with kisses. Cordis let out a string of exaggerated pleas to stop. She did as the child commanded. The palms of his little hands rested on her cheeks.

“Man dance core-ay gee, entee!” He exclaimed.

“Mdents koreyy ji, Otto.” Caelan replied. “You’re getting better at God Speak!”

The cast of Ardyn’s shadow, while he approached the two, had Caelan and Cordis look up. Both of them were happy to see Ardyn. He had two plates of food in hand, one for himself and Caelan. He chuckled, gesturing with his head at Cordis.

“Scram, child. I demand my wife be given back to me.” Ardyn jokingly threatened. A mischievous laugh left Cordis.

“Make me, Ardy!”

“Oh! Aren’t we feeling bold this visit?” Ardyn mused. He sat both the plates down, scooting Caelan’s close to her then crouched to get on eye level with Cordis. He pressed the palm of his hand to Cordis’s small skull and messed with his dark locks. Cordis giggled at the contact.

“Do you want to know a secret?” Ardyn whispered.

“Tell me!” Cordis whispered back, his eyes grew brighter at the second while Ardyn gestured to Ignis’s stash of personal picnic baskets he brought with him.

“I heard whisperings that your uncle Iggy is keeping those vanilla cakes you so dearly love in one of those. Now would be the perfect chance to snag a few. I won’t tell a soul! ”

“Do I have to give you a finders fee?” Cordis made a face to which Ardyn laughed. He pressed his forehead to Cordis to nuzzle him, and pulled away.

“Not this time. It’s all yours.”

“Yes!”

“Off you go then!”

Caelan had never seen a kid run so fast in his life. She laughed while Ardyn joined in her bouts, sitting on top of the blanket and scooting to her side. He wrapped his right arm around her, allowing Caelan to rest her head in the crook of his neck. His natural scent mixed well with the sandalwood cologne he was wearing. She couldn’t help but press a few chaste kisses to his throat, working her way up to his facial hair until Ardyn turned his head and met her in the middle. They slowly kissed several times before hearing someone shout their way.

“Not again! Ardyn, was this your doing?!” Ignis hollered, gesturing down to Cordis. His small cheeks were puffed up like a squirrel who had shoved one too many acorns in his mouth.

Ardyn shook his head and shrugged, feigning innocence. “You dare accuse me of such childish play? That could be grounds for treason! Noctis, vouch for me!”

“I want no part of it! Even if my son lays the groundwork for war!” Noctis said with a playful firmness, he shot his son a quick glare to which Cordis bowed his head in defeat.  

“You Caelum's are impossible!” Ignis rolled his eyes, trying to suppress a smile while he scolded Cordis for his trespassing. The four-year-old innocently enough made his apologies known. He turned and gave Ardyn a thumbs up before continuing to fake remorse to appease his elders.

Caelan laughed hard as did Ardyn. They settled while Ardyn nestled his face into Caelan’s hair. His free arm snaked around her body, clasping with the hand that was behind her back, and pulled her close.

“They’re going to kill you one day for corrupting an heir.” Caelan teased, feeling Ardyn snort against her scalp.

“Better I make a beast of my kin than to slay one due to a dated prophecy.”

“Touché.” Caelan turned in his grasp. She kissed Ardyn's lips, to which he deepened it. Before they could get too carried away in front of their friends and loved ones, Ardyn pulled back. He sighed contently, his nose caressed against Caelan’s. The arm around her back gently lowered. His hand rubbed small circles into her side while his other hand cupped her face, fingers tenderly grazing against her skin.

“I love you,” Ardyn murmured. His gaze then lowered to Caelan’s abdomen. His hand that had been holding her face moved down to the spot. He couldn’t stop his fingers from stroking the area.

“I can’t wait to play alongside our little one.”

“Makes two of us,” Caelan smiled down at his hand, then looked back into Ardyn’s eyes. “Think you can deal with Cordis and Seraphii until then?”

Ardyn let out an exaggerated sigh, then grinned. “If you absolutely must insist. You sure there isn’t any way to speed things up?”

Caelan glared at him to which he shirked back and made a face.

“That was rather misguided on my part.”

“It’s only been a week. Have some patience!”

“I’ll give you more than that.” Ardyn teased. His tone however held a sincere promise while he embraced Caelan. They both squeezed each other until it hurt, neither of them letting up when Ardyn felt the compulsion to look upon his beloved.

Ardyn could care less about the festivities, let alone their food which was growing cold. There was much to be happy about in this life they had been building for years. He felt another round of tears wishing to be shed but did his darndest to hold back. Ardyn had spilled plenty back at Niflheim the day Caelan told him they would be parents. It wasn’t planned since Ardyn assumed he remained infertile even after losing the scourge. After much deliberation, they decided to take the leap at parenting. Both agreed to endure together. Ardyn would be lying to himself though if he wasn't scared on Caelan's behalf. He had been nothing but encouraging to her if she wanted to proceed or not.

“We’ll get through this together,” Caelan promised. Grasping one of his hands with hers. “Like everything else we’ve been through.”

Ardyn’s smile couldn’t get any bigger.

“You have no idea how thankful I am that you’re my family. I’d be lost without you, Cahl.”

“I love you.”

Gentle pecks began to make way for deeper motions. Ardyn’s hands entangled in Caelan’s hair while her arms went around his shoulders, and their kiss grew more passionate. It was only when a series of whistles and calls were heard did they freeze and slowly turn their heads toward their large group. Shy embarrassment hit both Caelan and Ardyn while they tried to wave off the hijinks of the gang.

“Your food will become dog chow at this rate!” Ignis forewarned.

“I think they’re hungry for another thing Iggy!”

“Damn it, Prompto!” Noctis sighed.

“What? We’re adults aren’t we, Noct?!”

“What are you two love birds whispering about? Better not be invasion plans!” Gladio smirked.

“Prompto, you are going to be the death of everyone here!” Lunafreya laughed.

"Gladio, don't give them ideas!" Noctis teased.

While the antics of the group died down, Caelan smiled and murmured to Ardyn.

“When should we tell them the news?”

“I had an idea I wanted to run by you regarding that,” Ardyn began. He chuckled observing Seraphii and Cordis look over at the adults in disgust, shaking their heads in disappointment at their caregivers. They ventured to the beach, wanting to dip their toes in the water. The laughter of the kids was soon accompanied by a barrage of cheeps coming from a black chocobo chick. Susannah stumbled, still getting used to her long legs after a growth spurt and sprinted at the kids. She squawked at them playfully while flapping her little wings.

“ShuShu!” Cordis and Seraphii exclaimed. They both took turns patting and playing with Ardyn and Caelan’s chocobo, then coaxed the avian to follow them to the sands.

There was a moment, for the briefest of seconds that Ardyn didn’t see either Cordis or Seraphii. Instead, he saw himself as a teen along with Somnus. Both of them played together in the low tides while their parents from afar meddled with the lords and ladies of Lucis. They took turns splashing each other in the surf, all the while Ardyn’s black chocobo Absolom chased the brothers around. Seraphii and Cordis were near the exact spot where such a memory took place over 2,000 years ago. There were no words that could express how Ardyn felt, seeing something so innocent repeat in history.

“You were saying?” Caelan mused. She took a photo with her phone when Ardyn wasn’t looking. He snapped out of his trance.

“Yes,” Ardyn sighed, letting his feelings settle. “Sorry, I was feeling rather sentimental.”

“Don’t ever apologize for that,” Caelan leaned forward and kissed his cheek.

Ardyn turned to smirk at her. “Or whatever will I do if I face your wrath?”

“Guess you’ll have to find out later tonight.” Caelan snickered.

“I’ll hold you to that,” Ardyn sighed contently then let out a huff. “If Noctis doesn’t murder me.”

“Why would he murder you?”

“Well, as I was saying, I had an idea.” Ardyn’s eyes grew with a trickery Caelan was all too familiar with. She knew she was probably going to go along with it. Whatever his crazy plan was.

“I could make our announcement right before Noctis blows out the candles on his cake. I can see the gasps and exclamations already. I must have my way, but I dare not overstep regarding you.”

“Damn. You really want to steal the king's thunder on his birthday?”

“I can’t think of anything better!” Ardyn laughed.

“You’re such a jerk,” Caelan sighed, shaking her head while she laughed. “You owe me for this.”

“Gladly, darling!” Ardyn pressed a kiss to Caelan’s cheek then excused himself upon seeing Susannah attempting to eat Seraphii’s braids. Caelan giggled and watched the scene unfold until her attention was guided elsewhere.

“Cae! Come join us for a round of Kings Knight! They updated the boss levels!” Prompto hollered. He had his arm around Cindy who had just arrived, she gave a wave to everyone.

“Yeah, we got a spot open! Gladio tapped out!” Noctis chimed in.

“Did not!”

“Did too!” Ignis countered.

“Be right over!” There was something she needed to do first.

Caelan opened up her Kwee! account and started creating a post with several pictures she had taken with everyone. She smiled at many, dedicating the memories to her mind and heart. The group photo she took earlier, Caelan edited with a filter. The image of Ardyn and the rest of the gang looked like a painting from Ardyn’s time. It seemed fitting for one reason or another to her.

Caelan separated this picture and the secret one she took of Ardyn into their own post. Her eyes carded over the side profile she had of Ardyn. She couldn’t take her eyes off him, how peaceful he looked. Her free hand went to her abdomen, gently rubbing at the spot where their kid was growing.

“The Glacian and I made a pact,” Ardyn explained to Caelan during the first night of her stay at Niflheim. He held her hands in his, never once taking his eyes off her. The warm light of their bedroom contrasted with the night sky through the windows. “My fate is tied to yours. Neither of us will depart this world without the other. When you leave, I shall follow.”

“Why would you do that?” Caelan murmured.

“Dying can be scary. I want to be there for you, wherever we go after. Just as my mother did for my father years ago.” Ardyn said softly. He recalled Shiva’s remark about that, smiling to himself. It felt good, finally knowing why both his and Somnus’s parents perished together. They had their fates bound by the Glacian herself at the behest of Adrian, their mother.

“I can’t believe you guilt-tripped the Glacian into giving you more than your life.” Caelan mused, trying to alleviate the seriousness of the conversation. The smirk Ardyn wore made Caelan grin.

“There might be a bit more.”

“Such as?”

“We will age gracefully. I can imagine we will still look our fifties by the time we reach one hundred.”

“One hundred?!” Caelan exclaimed.

“Why not? It seems a reasonable goal!” Ardyn nodded. He tilted his head playfully, smiling at her. “Do you think you’ll check out sooner than that?”

“No,” Caelan shook her head. “Not as long as I have you.”

As the memory came to its conclusion, Caelan thought of her mom and dad--Julian, Aila, and her little brother August. If fate hadn’t been cruel in more ways than one to her kin, Caelan wondered if they would’ve appreciated the family Ardyn and her created. Alas, it didn’t matter. The past was the past. Not just for Caelan, but for Ardyn too. They had one life to live, and they would make the present count.

Caelan created the post.

Paradise <3

Thank you for letting me be a part of your life.

#FoundFamily

From afar Ardyn was returning with ShuShu and the kids in tow. He waved at her, and Caelan smiled watching Cordis mess around with Ardyn’s small braids while he rode on his back. Seraphii held Ardyn’s left hand while in his right Susannah pecked at his clothes. As Caelan got up to venture over to Ardyn and the gang, there was a single thought she had regarding the life she was now living: it was a damned good one.

Notes:

Thank you for making it to the end of this story! I'm still in disbelief I managed to crank out over 540+ pages in 2 months. I've never written anything this long before, and I hope you enjoyed the journey as much as I have. This was my first fanfic for anything Final Fantasy related, and I think I did okay!

I'd like to give a shoutout to a few individuals that kept me going:

@nemodoren via tumblr: This person knew about the story before I even started writing. I bounced off so many ideas with him and he beta read every single chapter before I put it on AO3. He let me know what worked and what didn't. His honesty was invaluable as was his encouragement.

@seradyn via tumblr: This lovely gal was always present whenever I updated chapters on tumblr. Her comments made me excited to keep going, and I had a blast getting feedback from her. The reactions she had to chapters was priceless!

@ticklemycucumber: I shared a few chapters with her before releasing them. Her feedback greatly helped me shape some of the more serious chunks of the story. I don't think they would've come out as good had she not given her two cents.

@HeartofFyrwinde: Thank you for commenting consecutively on the chapters! I loved your theories and thoughts, and your compliment about hearing Darin throughout Ardyn’s dialogue still goes through my head.

Thank you to everyone that comment and took time to say something encouraging! You have no idea how much of an impact that has on writers on this site. Please speak up more often. If not for me, then other authors you like.

Now that the story is over, please feel free to let me know how it holds up now that it's complete.  I love interacting with readers very much. It doesn't matter when you started or when the story ended, you always have a space here!

Thanks again guys! I'll be taking a break, but I'll see ya in the next fic!

[misseffie]

Is Gendry illiterate?

Short answer: Probably not. 

Long answer: 

I’ve noticed a lot of fanfiction trying to address Gendry’s illiteracy once he becomes a noble. Most fics depict him as being completely illiterate. Some depict him as having some level of literacy, but not enough for his new position. So let’s try to figure it out, shall we?

Part 1: Literacy

We have this assumption that in medieval times no one could read or write unless they were part of the nobility. That is not quite true. Firstly, we have to understand what it meant to be literate by medieval standards: 

“In Medieval times, “Literate” actually meant able to read and write in Latin, which was considered to be the language of learning. Being able to read and write in the vernacular wasn’t considered real learning at all. Most peasants prior to the Black Death (which really shook up society) had little chance to learn - hard labouring work all of the hours of daylight does’t leave a lot of energy for reading or writing.

It’s worth noting, however the panic amongst the ruling classes when translations of The Bible started to appear written in English. This really started in the late 14th Century (about 30 years after the Black Death). The level of panic suggests that the Ruling Classes knew that the numbers of people who could read and write English was far greater than the numbers who could read Latin.”

However, there is no language quite like Latin in Westeros. The closest we come to something similar is High Valyrian. Which noble children seem to have a basic understanding of. We can safely assume that Gendry doesn’t have extensive knowledge of High Valyrian - so he is illiterate in that regard. But I don’t think High Valyrian is as widely used as Latin was in the Middle Ages. It’s also not a language with religious significance. As the Faith of the Seven doesn’t use High Valyrian the way that the Catholic Church used Latin.

So… taking that into account. What I assume that is meant by “literate” in Westeros is being able to read and write in the Common Tongue. 

I will say that even by those parameters I don’t think most of the commoners would have been literate. However, Gendry was not in the same situation as most of the commoners.

Which leads me to... 

Part 2: Socio-economic class in Medieval Times

The level of literacy among the commonfolk has to be examined on a case by case basis.

Literacy among “peasants” varied a lot depending on circumstance. So, for example, it’s not strange that Davos, who was a smuggler prior to meeting Stannis, was illiterate. Or Gilly, who was completely isolated from the world and in terrible conditions.

But Gendry is in a different situation.

As @arsenicandfinelace pointed out in this cool meta:

Gendry was definitely born low-class, as an unrecognised bastard whose mother was a tavern girl (read: one step away from prostitute). But the whole point of apprenticing with Tobho Mott is that that was a major leap forward for him, socially.

As Davos put it in 3x10, “The Street of Steel? You lived in the fancy part of town.” Yes, a tradesman of any kind is leagues below the nobility, and could never ever be worthy of marrying a highborn girl like Arya. But Tobho Mott is a master craftsman, the best armourer in the capital city of a heavily martial country. As far as tradesman go, he’s the best of the best, and charges accordingly.

There’s a reason Varys had to pay out the ass to get Gendry apprenticed there. If he had stayed, completed his apprenticeship, and eventually taken over the workshop, he would have been very wealthy (by commoner standards) and respectable (again, by commomner standards), despite his low birth.

Tobho Mott is a tradesman and a craftsman. He is part of the merchant class. * Merchants are often referred to as a different class from the rest of the population. The merchant class in Medieval Times was closer to the middle class of contemporary times.

“By the 15th century, merchants were the elite class of many towns and their guilds controlled the town government. Guilds were all-powerful and if a merchant was kicked out of one, he would likely not be able to earn a living again.”

Mott would be considered to be part of the merchant class - and not even a common kind of merchant either. He was the best Blacksmith in all of King's Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. So we can assume that Tobho Mott was a very wealthy and powerful craftsman and merchant.  

“That many 'middle class' people (tradesmen, merchants and the like) could read and write in the late middle ages cannot be disputed.”

I’m not saying that all tradesmen/merchants/craftsmen were literate back then. It was still a smaller percentage than the nobility. Only the richer and more influential of tradesmen would learn Latin. But I think most of them would be literate enough in the vernacular to run a business. Considering Mott’s reputation and his clientele I’m certain that Mott is part of that literate percentage.

In season 2, Arya accidentally reveals to Tywin that she can read. Realizing her mistake she covers up by saying that her father, a ’stonemason', taught her. Of course, I don’t think that completely fooled Tywin but why did Arya say her father was Stonemason. Why did his profession matter at all? Surely it wouldn’t have mattered if he was a fisherman or a farmer... a peasant is a peasant, right?

Wrong.

“The Medieval Stonemason asserts that they were not monks but highly skilled craftsmen who combined the roles of architect, builder, craftsman, designer, and engineer. Many, if not all masons of the Middle Ages learnt their craft through an informal apprentice system”

“Children from merchants and craftsmen were able to study longer and continuous, so they were able to learn Latin at a later age. This way, everyone learned to read and write (some better than others) sufficiently for their trade.”

Stonemasons were the architects of the time and no doubt the top tier was literate.

Many trades (by the 15th C) required reading and writing, so it was taught to apprentices by the masters. We know from apprenticeship agreements that many masters were expected to continue the apprentice's literacy or start it, which makes sense for the wider viability of the trade.

The War of the Roses took place in the late 15th Century. So I’m guessing that that’s the time period that ASOIAF is mostly based on.

Part 3: Level of literacy

I think it’s safe to say that Gendry has some level of literacy. However, his “level” is pretty much up for debate. If he’d finished his apprenticeship it’s likely he’d have a decent level of reading/writing comprehension. However, near the end of his apprenticeship he was kicked out.

I’m not sure how much Gendry could read/write by the time that he was kicked out by Tobho Mott. But he’d already been his apprentice for 10 years (in show canon). More than enough time to get some basic reading/writing/basic math lessons. 

It seems that show!Gendry is more likely to have a higher level of literacy than book!Gendry. In the show, he leaves Tobho Mott at 16, while in the book he is 14. This is just my own impression, but I think his education would be more complete by age 16 than age 14.

Not to mention that book!Gendry is still in the Riverlands and working for outlaws. But in the show we can assume that Gendry has been smithing in King’s Landing for years and it is insinuated that he owns a shop. Meaning he might have reached “Master” status and can take on apprentices of his own. It might seem like Gendry is too young for that. But it’s actually not that strange. 

“Apprentices stayed with their masters for seven to nine years before they were able to claim journeyman status. Journeyman blacksmiths possessed the basic skills necessary to work alongside their master, seek work with other shops, or even open their own businesses.”

Considering that Gendry has been with Mott for 10 years in show!canon, it’s possible that Gendry was a “journeyman” and not an “apprentice” by the time that Ned meets him in season 1. But he might be nearing the end of his apprenticeship in the books.

Guilds also required journeymen to submit work for examination each year in each area of expertise. So, a journeyman who perhaps crafted swords, locks, and keys would need to submit each item to his guild annually for inspection. If the guild approved the craftsmanship of the products, the journeyman could eventually move up to master status.

The process of becoming a master could take from 2 to 5 years. Considering that Gendry is regarded as talented, it’s likely that he achieved this in a shorter period of time. As a journeyman he also needed to work alongside a master for 3 to 4 years before he could obtain master status. Which would still explain why he was so upset at being kicked out by Mott - it’s like someone getting kicked out while they’re trying to obtain a PHD. 

By the time we meet him in season 7 it’s very possible that Gendry is now considered a master of his trade.

He also seems to be making armour and weapons for “Lannisters” which means he has a mostly noble clientele. He probably has plenty of fancy clients asking for custom-made products. With sketches and measurements and all that shit. Which is not surprising since he probably has a de facto reputation simply by merit of being Tobho Mott’s apprentice (lets ignore how dumb it is that no one discovered that Gendry was in King’s Landing since he made no effort to hide who he was or try to hide from the nobility lol).

Conclusion: 

It’s safe to say that Gendry had some access to higher education. He can probably read and write enough for his line of work. It’s likely that his level would still leave much to be desired once he became a noble though. For comparison, imagine if someone left school at age 11 and was then required to write a college-level thesis. So he’d definitely need some “lordly” writing lessons and further education.

Gendry is still wildly uneducated for what he needs to do. So...

This meme is still gold 10/10

* Correction: Though Mott would be considered part of the same socio-economic class as merchants he is primarily a tradesman/craftsman, and would be referred to as such. Since merchants didn’t produce the goods they sold. However they could belong to the same guild, along with artisans and craftsmen.