#wheat band ring

[tma-entity-song-poll]

Battle of the Fear Bands!

B4R3: The Extinction

London Calling:

“The song is all about the world tearing itself apart through war, famine, and disasters. The sound intensity lends itself to a feeling of danger. At the end of the song, there is a repeating "SOS" (the international distress signal) in Morse code, implying an outgoing call for help at the end of the world.”

We Will All Go Together When We Go:

“Its literally about how we will all die if a nuclear bomb got dropped on us but cheerfully:)”

Lyrics below the line!

London Calling:

London calling to the faraway towns Now war is declared, and battle come down London calling to the underworld Come outta the cupboard, ya boys and girls

London calling, now don't look to us Phony Beatlemania has bitten the dust London calling, see we ain't got no swing Except for the ring of that truncheon thing

The ice age is coming, the sun's zoomin' in Meltdown expected, the wheat is growin' thin Engines stop running, but I have no fear 'Cause London is drownin', and I live by the river

(London calling) to the imitation zone Forget it, brother, you can go it alone London calling to the zombies of death Quit holdin' out and draw another breath

London calling, and I don't wanna shout But while we were talking, I saw you noddin' out London calling, see we ain't got no Hyde 'Cept for that one with the yellowy eyes

The ice age is coming, the sun's zoomin' in Engines stop running, the wheat is growin' thin A nuclear error, but I have no fear 'Cause London is drowning, and I, I live by the river

The ice age is coming, the sun's zoomin' in Engines stop running, the wheat is growin' thin A nuclear error, but I have no fear 'Cause London is drowning, an' I, I live by the river

Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh Ooh, ooh, ooh Now get this

(London calling) Yes, I was there, too And ya know what they said? Well, some of it was true (London calling) At the top of the dial And after all this, won't you give me a smile? (London calling)

I never felt so much alike, alike, alike

We Will All Go Together When We Go:

When you attend a funeral It is sad to think that sooner or l- -ater those you love will do the same for you And you may have thought it tragic (Not to mention other adjec- -tives) to think of all the weeping they will do But don't you worry

No more ashes, no more sackcloth And an armband made of black cloth Will some day nevermore adorn a sleeve For if the bomb that drops on you Gets your friends and neighbors too There'll be nobody left behind to grieve

And we will all go together when we go What a comforting fact that is to know Universal bereavement - An inspiring achievement! Yes, we all will go together when we go

We will all go together when we go All suffused with an incandescent glow No one will have the endurance To collect on his insurance Lloyd's of London will be loaded when they go

Oh, we will all fry together when we fry We'll be French-fried potatoes by-and-by There will be no more misery When the world is our rotisserie Yes, we all will fry together when we fry

Down by the old maelstrom There'll be a storm before the calm

And we will all bake together when we bake There'll be nobody present at the wake With complete participation In that grand incineration Nearly three billion hunks of well-done steak

Oh, we will all char together when we char And let there be no moaning of the bar Just sing out a Te Deum When you see that ICBM And the party will be come-as-you-are

Oh, we will all burn together when we burn There'll be no need to stand and wait your turn When it's time for the fallout And Saint Peter calls us all out We'll just drop our agendas and adjourn You will all go directly to your respective Valhallas Go directly, do not pass 'GO', do not collect two hundred dollars

And we will all go together when we go Every Hottentot and every Eskimo When the air becomes uraneous We will all go simultaneous Yes, we all will go together When we all go together Yes, we all will go together when we go

[ruyaceres]

i. After passing the trials, Rüya’s ring was fitted with a stone emblazoned with the sigil of Ceres. She immediately took a small chisel and etched a single head of wheat onto the underside of the band—a secret tribute to Arasvale, the fields that shaped her, and the family she’ll never forget.

ii. Rüya’s unlikely bond with a cat sith began during her first year at the Tower of Olympia. She spent hours searching its depths for Proserpina’s secret alcove, and though she never uncovered it, Asrial followed her out. Cunning and enigmatic, he serves as her silent protector, often draped across her shoulder in the Queen’s Court. Away from Eterna, Asrial scouts hostile territories alongside the Warriors of Mars, claiming the souls she cannot save in time. 

iii. In an effort to find peace, Rüya regularly tends to the vegetable gardens outside the Tower walls. It’s become a form of rehabilitation, not just for herself, but for those who work with her. It’s where she feels the most connected to others, swapping stories while her hands are deep in the earth—here she quietly observes the growth of plants and her patients. 

iv. Rüya dabbles in Conjuration. More than mere convenience, this precision-based art has proven invaluable to her work as a Healer. She inscribes intricate sigils on medical kits and herbs, ensuring she can call them to her side no matter the situation. 

v. Rüya dreams of experiencing a love like her parents shared, but terror engulfs her whenever someone comes too close. Independence is her shield, but it’s also her prison, keeping her isolated from the very connection she craves.

[assassinnumber9]

Assassin's Spy x Family Fanfic Masterpost Ver. 1

I wanted to make a list of all of my fanfics for anyone interesting in reading them. They range from tearjerking to fluffy to hot to chaotic. I try to write a bit of everything. This post will be updated through new posts as I write more and more, because as mentioned in my Drag AU post I have a lot of ideas that I've started and/or have planned.

But anyway, here's my list! I appreciate any and all support! It really helps me keep motivated!

Eternity is One Hell of A Long Time

Rating: E for strong language, violence, adult humor, and sexual content (any such content will be sectioned off into their own chapters and marked since the descriptions of the action are not central to the story)

Description: A Demon!Twilight x DemonicAssassin!Yor fic with a mixture of fluff, romance, humor, action, a bit of horror and a whole lot of chaos! This will be my long series I will be working on for TwiYor! I have a few others planned but nothing as long and lore heavy as this one.

Ao3 Summary:

Cool air breezed through his gold locks like wind through a field of tall wheat - so cold his feet and legs began to tingle, left ring finger seemingly being gently squeezed as if a ring was wrapping snug around it. He could almost feel the initial frosty bite of gold first hitting skin, causing him to press his thumb slightly against where a ring would potentially - no, did - lay. The solid mineral shaped perfectly to adhere to the base of the digit - an impeccably suitable fit. … Wait. Twilight lifted his hand to look at it, to be sure it wasn’t true, glancing to ensure his advisor wasn’t watching beforehand. And lo and behold, there it sat. A thick, solid gold band. Is this a wedding ring?

In which, Yor needs a date to a party and somehow manages to summon the strongest demon in hell...and also bind him to her for eternity.

How does one accidentally bind themselves to a demon for eternity?

Pairings: TwiYor, Pairings to be added

Chapters: 1/?

Flowing Now As a Song

Rating: G

Description: A bittersweet fic where Loid Forger visits Kielberg to speak to his mother.

Ao3 Summary:

The train station where he got off was mostly empty, but he assumed it was likely a lot better than what it was. This station was the closest one to where the bombings dropped all those years ago, closest to Kielberg. And if he had learned anything from his years of spying and war and psychiatry, it was that people tended to stay away from tragedy as if it were the plague, whether or not they had personal ties to that tragedy mattered not. It was all the same in the end. A tragedy was a tragedy.

However, it was when people faced those tragedies were they finally able to learn. It was when people faced those tragedies were they finally able to grow.

And for him, it was finally time to face the ones he had pushed away for over two decades.

Thus, the former spy made his way to find a cab, barely managing to push down the violent pressure of emotions boiling in his chest.

He had to talk to her at least once - just one time would be enough - as Loid Forger and no one else.

Pairings: Mentioned TwiYor, Mentioned Yuri x Chloe (Changed from Yuri x Fiona originally)

Chapters: 1/1

Loid Forger is NOT A Cuddler

Rating: T for mild suggestive themes

Description: A fluffy, tooth rotting fic about how Loid Forger is not a cuddler and the reactions from his numerous victims.

Ao3 Summary:

Let the record show that Loid Forger is NOT a cuddler.

But, he's also a liar.

5 times Loid Forger got caught being a cuddler and denied it, and the 1 time he finally admits it.

Pairings: TwiYor

Chapters: 5/6

Obsessions

Rating: E

Description/Ao3 Summary: A series of ficlets of explicit TwiYor scenarios.

Pairings: TwiYor

Chapters: 1/?

What You Do To Me

Rating: E for smut

Description: A smutty fanfic where Loid fails to stop the situation.

Ao3 Summary:

This was bad.

This was fucking bad.

Then, why the hell did it feel so fucking good?

Twilight couldn’t stop. Why couldn’t he stop? He had done things most would call impossible, accomplished missions that had had less than a thousandth of a percent chance of succeeding. So out of all the things he could do in this damned world, why couldn’t he stop this?

Pairings: TwiYor

Chapters: 1/1

You Truly Are My Vice

Rating: E for smut

Description: A smutty sequel to What You Do To Me where Yor is the one to fail to stop the situation.

Ao3 Summary:

What was she thinking?

What the fuck was she thinking?!

She was sleeping with the enemy, right? That’s what she was doing?

Shopkeeper was going to kill her.

If Twilight wasn't going to kill her first.

Pairings: TwiYor

Chapters: 1/1

[graha-stan-account]

Fulsome: Day 22

Fulsome: Adj. 1. complimentary or flattering to an excessive degree. 

of large size or quantity; generous or abundant. 

Ancient. Emet-Selch has rebuffed any attempts to kindle affections between himself and Azem. However, it is becoming slowly apparent the tides are turning. Oh and there's cookies. A lot of cookies. 

FFXIVWrite 2023 Masterlist

--- 

Emet-Selch returned to his shared flat in early evening, the afternoon sun dripping like egg yolk down the facades of the nearby towers. The faint sound of crunching carried from the next room. Inside, Hythlodaeus was savoring something golden and rounded, crinkly and decidedly crunchy. 

"And what do you have there?"

"Some manner of biscuit. They're delightful! Upon the table there." He gestured vaguely toward the window from his spot, reclined on the settee. "Try one, try one, Hades."

Emet-Selch followed his hand and found on the sun-splashed side table an unfurled bundle of sweets, ringed by a colorfully patterned linen cloth. He had smelled the sweet honey flavor, smiled privately at the banded colors of their wrapping. And he had left them upon that very table, to enjoy away from his partner's prying eyes and Azem's smug mouth. 

"How many have you eaten!" Emet-Selch rushed over and folded the bundle shut. 

"Just a few.... dozen. The flavor... I  can't quite place it." 

"It's honey," he said aggravation acting as an underline in each sentence. "From the far reaches. The pollinating insects there feast most readily on a rare type of heather. As such, it may only be harvested for several weeks of the year. And it's currently out of season." He turned to Hythlodaeus, who swallowed with a bit of difficulty at the stare leveled at him. 

"Oh no." Hythlodaeus sat up suddenly, crumbs all about the front of his robes. "Tell me these are not Astrea's gift to you?" 

"It's... fine." Emet-Selch gripped the spare cloth on the bundle tighter. He sighed, his brow lifting, a resigned smile crawling across his face. "Quite good, are they...?"

"They're unlike anything I've tasted before." Hythlodaeus studied him a moment. "What's more, I'm," he chuckled, "taken by surprise that you not only now listen, but have retained her expositions. Forgive my skepticism you would ever accept a token of her affection." 

"Affection...?" 

--- 

"Why are you giving me this?" 

"You prefer these, don’t you?" There was hesitancy in her voice. 

"Yes... However," Emet-Selch followed Azem with his eyes. "I have the creeping feeling you're after something." 

Azem gave him a confused look. "I've been gone for several moons. What could I possibly be scheming?" She paused, then lunged for his hands. "If you're of the mind to refuse my gift--" 

Emet-Selch pulled away, face hot. "No, no. These will do." 

When she had taken her leave, Emet-Selch looked down at the wrapped confections. He admired the woven cloth, its colors likely auspicious in the tradition of whichever tribe had crafted the design. He breathed deeply the scent of honey and wheat, distinctly represented, emanating from within. The wheat was ground by stone, like as not, and coarse. Nutty, hearty and satisfying. 

And the honey. He knew it by scent alone. A honey he had tasted only once before. On a hillside. Upon the tip of a proffered finger. By starlight and under a curtain of indigo. 

And in the cover of dark he had let his heart be revealed. 

--- 

It seemed now as a dream. It was but a mundane errand for which she summoned him, but in her company the simplest things seemed overtaken as though by an intoxicating perfume. It took weeks to finally clear his head of its influence. 

So he thought. 

Hythlodaeus was kicking his feet with glee, crumbs flying about. 

[wilderebellion]

Rewatching Seeds of Conflict

NOTE: I had this in my drafts still while Episode 3 released and I'm bolding some stuff that's REALLY RELEVANT

Deli's greatest weakness and boldest strength is his open heart.

Ariana's making good use of that right now, likely stringing him along for political information about the clans, and guiding him towards unifying the Meat Lands.

Probably to assist Foccacia's political plans based on that insight check? I can't imagine Ariana actually cares about the people of the Meat Lands. One leader to target instead of three, maybe?

I wonder if the Katzens fall out of leadership because Deli realizes he was used, or if it has anything to do with the possible Bulbian agenda. We know Basha Myaso ends up leading and claims to be of the faith.

I know there was a whoopsy with Ariana and Angela, but now my confusion is this: who is the intended one that Matt wants to call "matronly"? Is the age difference why Deli and Ariana are secret, or is it possible conflict of interest because of their political positions?

Also, I can't imagine Amangeaux having been to the Ceresian Senate in Deli's youth is a coincidence. The only context we have around that event, though: it was before Deli's bread mama died, and shortly after Amangeaux's marriage. If the FDA designs events to happen.... I wonder if one or both of them fell under their purview.

The Packages

Colin's package: already in his room on the bed

Karna's: dropped nearby her (while still in disguise?) by someone who tripped, then seemingly ran away

Delissandro's: Left at his bedroom door

Amangeux's: Left at the foot of her bed within her large, queenly suite

Raphaniel's: package on the windowsill within his modest but Bulbian-adorned bedroom

Karna finds "a wrinkled four-inch carrot wrapped in a band of corn silk silver. Not a carrot on its own, for you now make out the knuckles that bend ever so slightly across this withered finger, the ring adorning it displaying a simple stylized kernel, the brand of Ja Cru Dites. The finger of Ja Cru Dites."

Delissandro: "a small box that contains a strange garment. A soft, verdant dress. A negligee of smooth wheat weave trimmed in lace. And as you unfold, a strong perfume fills the air like a sweet caramel and oats. Perfume you smelled not but earlier this afternoon. It has accompanied every letter that Ariana has sent you. It suffuses the pasta twists that fall from her head to her lower back, her teasing notes and promises of grand partnership, should you be a good, ambitious boy in your mind."

It's weirdly intimate that they nabbed some of Ariana's lingerie when she hasn't slept with Deli yet. So is she banging someone else on the side, or is she like, in on this whole thing? Did she recommend/recruit Deli specifically?

Karna observes the cloak has deep brown and gray patchwork texture to it, elements having almost a yellowish-tan coloration as well, like a calico. On the face, a reflective mask possibly made of some sort of odd vegetable iron that has been rusted to the point where there's kind of a deep brownish-red coloration to it.

5, 10, 15 figures in dark browns, also dull tans and golds and grays and blacks. These calico cloaks and robes, these strange shiny masks on their faces."

The Architects

Some of their spiel reminds me of that other group of Bulbians that were mentioned but I don't THIIINK we ever saw them on-screen in A Crown of Candy? Sanctis Putris?

"Shadow of destruction looms over all of the six kingdoms.."

"our forefathers united under a common cause"

"we deign the necessary conflicts that serve our cause and engineer their doing."

"As Architects, we seek no prestige. We seek no gilded praise, coin, or glory."

"Away from the true terrors and threats that most do but choose not to see, and build a bright, sustainable future."

Interesting... Deli described himself as an architect earlier to Ariana

[hunty627]

Here are more episode titles for Little Einsteins: New Missions.

Girl’s night out. June and Annie have been invited to have girls night with Ellen & her pink rocket ship, Rockette.

A pachyderm predicament! Rajiv the royal engine called our heroes and told them that Big Jet and his gang are in India. They transformed into construction vehicles and were going to pave over the home of the elephants! Ashima was worried about Trusty Trunky, and Leo was concerned about his friend, Little Elephant. Will nature win against Big Jet? Only time will tell.

Rocket rock stars! The Little Einsteins try out being a rock and roll band from a strange vision that I had when I was younger.

The lonely ladybug. The team was playing a video game when suddenly I saw something in the kitchen. It was a ladybug. And she looked lonely. She had gotten separated from all 11 of her friends. She needed to find her friends so she can join the ladybug picnic and eat apple leaf mold. Can the team help ladybug get to the picnic before it’s too late? Find out soon.

The knights of sing a lot! The Little Einsteins were attending a medieval fair, when Big Jet appeared and had teamed up with the very same dragon from the “go team” story! And they kidnapped Princess Bassoon! The Good Knight said the team can become knights and rescue the princess. But can they do in time? Featuring the art “Wheat Field with Cypresses” by Vincent van Gogh and the music “Wedding March” by Felix Mendelssohn.

The sensational sextet. Dorie and her friends and I want to be a band. But when we got our instruments out and onto the bandstand, Red Hawk and Yellow Rat flew in and took the instruments! Can we bring them back so we can make music for all our friends?

Reanne’s recital. Reanne was going to ballet dance with June and me, as well as the blue footed booby birds, Ducky the duckling and Saturn’s ring. But there was a problem. Reanne had lost her ballet flats. They blew away in a windstorm! Can we get her ballet shoes back in time for the dance recital?

Little Einsteins little league. The team is very excited to play little league baseball. But when they were training, Mindy accidentally hit the ball too far. And that was her favorite beanball. It was gifted to her when she and her friends learned how to play baseball. Can they get it back in time for the little league game at school? Only time will tell.

Happy hatch day, Baby Piccolodactyl! We were playing hopscotch outside the Rocket room, when we saw one of the instruments dinosaurs stop by. It was Bassosaurus Rex. He wanted to ask if one of us could spare a cup of sugar. He said was baking a big batch of dinosaur sized cupcakes for baby Piccolodactyl for his birthday. We volunteered to help B-Rex bake the cupcakes. He also said if we had any rainbow sprinkles, that would be great too. And make them as big as houses. Can we make the cupcakes in time for the party?

Rocket and the rainbow coral reef. Rocket was visiting his friend, Little Whale at the seashore. Little whale was telling him about the rainbow coral reef. But Big Jet and his crew were plotting to destroy the rainbow coral reef and make a new underwater base! Can they save the reef? Only time will tell.

A Little Einsteins Thanksgiving. It was Thanksgiving, and the Little Einsteins were having a big thanksgiving feast in the Rocket room with their friends and families. But Big Jet had stolen all the food! Such as the clam stuffing, the cheesy string beans, the banana cream pie and even the mashed potatoes! Can they get all the food back before Big Jet eats them all up? Find out next time!

Captain Leo sails to Neverland! The Little Einsteins were playing pirates again. And we met up with Peter Pan and Tinker Bell. They said that they had some terrible news. Big Jet has made an alliance with Captain Hook and they have kidnapped Jake, Izzy, Cubby, and Skully! And worse of all, that made Bucky the ship get stuck on a sandbar, so he can’t sail for home! Can they rescue Jake and his pirate crew? Only time will tell. Featuring the art "Under the Wave of Kanagawa" by Katsushika Hokusai and the music “Carmen suite number 1” by Georges Bizet.

Hunter goes cuckoo! The Little Einsteins were visiting cuckoo waypoint and were very excited. Cuckoo bird was about to have chicks. She had 3 eggs in her clock nest. But Big Jet stole the eggs! He was gonna cook the eggs and eat them! Cuckoo bird was very upset. Her eggs didn’t even hatch yet. Will the team rescue the cuckoo bird’s eggs before Big Jet hard boils them? Only time will tell. Featuring the art “German folk art” and the music “1812 overture” by Peter Illich Tchaikovsky.

[glowreusbling]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Sterling silver Abalone Shell Oval Ring.

[thinkko]

Whole Wheat Banana Cake

Wheat Jaggery Cake🍰 banane ke liye:

1️⃣ 1 cup gehu ka aata, 1/4 cup makhana powder, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, aur namak ko mix kar le.

2️⃣ 2 mashed bananas, 1/2 cup jaggery, 1/2 cup milk, aur 1/4 cup oil ko mila kar ache se mix kar le. Dry & wet ingredients ko achese mila le.

3️⃣ Cake pan ko ghee se grease karke 180°C (350°F) par 30-35 minutes tak ya jab tak toothpick saaf nikalne tak, bake kare.

Oven nahi hai? Chinta na kare! Pressure Cooker Method🔥:

1️⃣ Cooker ke dhakan (rubber ring) aur seeti (whistle) ko nikal de.

2️⃣ Ek steel stand ya purani flat base plate, cooker ke andar rakh de. Ye cake ko cooker ke base se direct contact hone se prevent karega.

3️⃣ Cooker ke dhakan ko band karke, dhimi aanch par 10-minutes tak preheat kare.

Cake batter ko cake mold mein daal kar cooker ko gasket ya seeti ke bina band kare. Cake lagbhag 40-50 minutes mein taiyar ho jayega. 30-minutes ke baad toothpick se check kare.

Taiyar cake ko 3 din tak fridge mein band container mein store kare.

[varshinimusic123]

Stalk Of Wheat They Might Be Giants cover

In this video, I'm covering the Stalk of Wheat by They Might Be Giants. This cover is one of the most popular songs by the band and is sure to get you in the mood for a fun night out! If you're a fan of They Might Be Giants, then you'll love this cover of the Stalk of Wheat. This classic song will get you in the mood for a night out on the town! From the music to the video, this cover is sure to entertain you! #StalkOfWheat #TheyMightBeGiants #cover LIKE | SHARE | SUBSCRIBE | RING THE BELL 🎵***************RELATED VIDEOS***************🎵 Music Covers:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DT3f15qeAs&list=PLBKZEv1RVHbrqvurOpM1YT3qR47O_HYnG Acoustic Covers:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p722CXyMNYI&list=PLBKZEv1RVHbrzg0cGODD3PxZLq_xNSAbW Guitar Covers:https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLBKZEv1RVHboWDxnHOJB8u8kaXFn9XLf9 🌏**********SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS**********🌏 ✅ Instagram:Varshini Vijayakumar https://www.instagram.com/varshinivijayakumar123/ ✅ Facebook: Varshini Vijayakumar https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063549962286 ✅  Twitter: Varshini Vijayakumar https://twitter.com/Varshini_123

[tma-entity-song-poll]

Battle of the Fear Bands!

B4R2: The Extinction

In the Year 2525:

“An unnerving description of how our humanity gradually erodes over the next several centuries”

London Calling:

“The song is all about the world tearing itself apart through war, famine, and disasters. The sound intensity lends itself to a feeling of danger. At the end of the song, there is a repeating "SOS" (the international distress signal) in Morse code, implying an outgoing call for help at the end of the world.”

Lyrics below the line!

In the Year 2525:

In the year 2525, if man is still alive If woman can survive, they may find In the year 3535 Ain't gonna need to tell the truth, tell no lie Everything you think, do and say Is in the pill you took today In the year 4545 You ain't gonna need your teeth, won't need your eyes You won't find a thing to chew Nobody's gonna look at you In the year 5555 Your arms hangin' limp at your sides Your legs got nothin' to do Some machine's doin' that for you In the year 6565 You won't need no husband, won't need no wife You'll pick your son, pick your daughter too From the bottom of a long glass tube

In the year 7510 If God's a coming, He oughta make it by then Maybe He'll look around Himself and say Guess it's time for the judgment day In the year 8510 God is gonna shake His mighty head He'll either say I'm pleased where man has been Or tear it down, and start again

In the year 9595 I'm kinda wonderin' if man is gonna be alive He's taken everything this old earth can give And he ain't put back nothing

Now it's been ten thousand years Man has cried a billion tears For what, he never knew, now man's reign is through But through eternal night, the twinkling of starlight So very far away, maybe it's only yesterday

In the year 2525, if man is still alive If woman can survive, they may find

London Calling:

London calling to the faraway towns Now war is declared, and battle come down London calling to the underworld Come outta the cupboard, ya boys and girls

London calling, now don't look to us Phony Beatlemania has bitten the dust London calling, see we ain't got no swing Except for the ring of that truncheon thing

The ice age is coming, the sun's zoomin' in Meltdown expected, the wheat is growin' thin Engines stop running, but I have no fear 'Cause London is drownin', and I live by the river

(London calling) to the imitation zone Forget it, brother, you can go it alone London calling to the zombies of death Quit holdin' out and draw another breath

London calling, and I don't wanna shout But while we were talking, I saw you noddin' out London calling, see we ain't got no Hyde 'Cept for that one with the yellowy eyes

The ice age is coming, the sun's zoomin' in Engines stop running, the wheat is growin' thin A nuclear error, but I have no fear 'Cause London is drowning, and I, I live by the river

The ice age is coming, the sun's zoomin' in Engines stop running, the wheat is growin' thin A nuclear error, but I have no fear 'Cause London is drowning, an' I, I live by the river

Ooh, ooh, ooh, ooh Ooh, ooh, ooh Now get this

(London calling) Yes, I was there, too And ya know what they said? Well, some of it was true (London calling) At the top of the dial And after all this, won't you give me a smile? (London calling)

I never felt so much alike, alike, alike

[witchcraftandburialdirt]

Vittorio hums guiding him through the castle, "Pardon my curiosity miss, but is there a reason why you don't wear your wedding band? I know your husband said you two are married, but I never see either of you wearing rings." - Vittorio @ Haru medieval

── 𝐔𝐍𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐌𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 ── MEDIEVAL VERSE

The halls were eerily silent as the two of them made their way from Vittorio's vast collection of books, that was until the nobleman spoke and ripped Haru out of his thoughts; bringing him back into the castle walls. His dark gaze flicked over to their newest patron and scanned across his brocade and velvet attire, such fine fabrics he had never seen before... much thicker than the silks and Kalamkari. He imagined what it would have been like for Tarhos to wear such comfortable clothing during the winter months, he was sure it would have been much better than the thin cotton and easily chilled linens. It would have been put to good use, rather than just a fashion statement... Still, his brow quirked at the sudden inquiry,

"That is the law of your lands, anyone of low birth is not permitted to have jewels...or anything that might make them appear equal to or above men like you." His tone held no venom when he spoke, simply a remark on the situation, "That being said... We were never able to wear jewelry or rings...I would often braid rings of wheat or flower stems for us, he could wear it under his gloves and I could pretend it was just some...silly thing." His voice trailed off as they continued their trek through the castle, "I do not know if he knows but I... took his blade and made it permanent, for he who holds my heart." The maiden glanced to Vittorio with a calculating squint, measuring how much he could truly trust him until he finally lifted his hand to show the small hairthin ring around his finger.

"While I cannot wear jewels or a band for him, there are other ways...deeper ways, many of which I'm sure the married rich would never understand. I'm not sure any of them truly know what it means to love something - or someone - so deeply that upon losing it you would lose yourself as well." A beat of silence as he brought his hand close to his chest, "I only want this journey to be safe for him, my lord... You seem kind, and only wish for protection... Please don't let him be snuffed out when he's only just beginning to learn how to be a human again. When we both are."

[gigikthings]

Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: Gold wheat Cup & Saucer.

[multi-lefaiye]

:3 it is time. going clockwise from the top right !

as a refresher, here's the poster: [link]

tagging some people i think would enjoy this the most: @corvus-rose @invaderskoodge @vacantgodling @paradoxspir1t @moonflowerrss

@skitzo-kero @anexor

- glaive and blood splatter - the glaive is quite literally the weapon strata uses much of the time, but it being so close to her (and the blood) symbolizes the violence that has always defined strata's life. she was raised in a warzone and had to learn at a very young age to fight for her own survival. violence is part of who she is, for better and for worse. (and it was also ultimately her end, symbolized by the glaive being turned to point towards her.)

- broken wedding band - the broken wedding ring is an actual item from strata's backstory i was asked to include, but i put it here specifically because it relates to both her and barley. they were both married (or engaged) in their first life, but it ended in brutal tragedy for both of them as their loves died.

- pocketwatch - this is a pocketwatch barley carries that belonged to his husband in his first life, one he carries with him now. it's a very literal representation of his grief and the happy life he lost.

- wheat - barley is a farm boy and a cowboy cat, and he frequently has a piece of wheat in his mouth.

- apple - again, farm boy, but also a silly reference to eden teasing eddie by telling him "you could not bite through the skin of an apple without help." but the bite in the apple is also kind of a cheeky nod to the "forbidden fruit of knowledge" thing in the bible... barley and eden are both warlocks for key, but barley took that leap first and was the one to introduce eden to their patron.

- journal - kind of a generic symbol for the books and journals eden carried with him in his university days, pushed to the side because he's abandoned so much of what he'd learned before in favor of diving headfirst into this new kind of magic.

- skeleton key - eden and barley's patron is called the keystone, aka key. this is a pretty literal representation of that, and it's a skeleton key specifically as a nod to key's expansive reach and knowledge. very little hides from it.

- fountain quill - this is at least similar to a pen eden uses in the campaign, frantically taking notes on everything and trying to piece his theories together. always writing, never stopping.

- chalk - this is one of the more literal items lmao, but eden carries a few sticks of chalk with him. for magic reasons.

- skull - here to represent eden's history with necromancy, the good and the bad. it's what he dedicated his life to, but it's also what his father was famous for. in many ways, necromancy is itself a representation of the shadow of abdiel's legacy, always hanging heavy on eden's shoulders.

- cigarettes - eden and hyndrol are both smokers, hyndrol more so. the cigarettes near hyn are all stubbed out and burnt, implying a long life of smoking them down. meanwhile, the one closest to eden is clean and unburnt, representing his own life being cut short. and as a fun aside, fire and arson feature heavily in hyndrol's story--she's burnt a lot more than cigarettes.

- photos - originally i meant for these to represent a picture i imagine eden carries with him of his family, before his father left but with abdiel's face scratched out--a memento eden defaced years ago in a fit of anger and carries with him to this day. BUT... i decided to leave them blank, to fit them both. and as a nod to hyndrol's memories being... not as reliable as they used to be, let's say :) (evil). also, jamie told me that hyndrol definitely kept a copy of her own wanted poster, and that's so funny, so consider this a reference to that.

- knife - again, this is a representation of a knife hyndrol actually carries on her, minus some of the more specific decals. it's something important to her from her previous life, like with barley's pocket watch. a representation of the life she lost and the people in her past, as well as the violence that followed her for much of her life. and like with strata's glaive, it being pointed at her is another nod to the violence that she wrought eventually killing her.

- morel mushroom - so hyndrol's shitty toxic ex-lover's name is morel, which is a kind of mushroom. so i threw one of those here. and as a fun aside, to me morels kinda look... dead, and a little rotten. so i tried to lean into that a bit and make this mushroom look dead and kinda gross. morel is a toxic sack of shit of a person and the rot she brought into hyndrol's life is represented very literally here. but, in a way, i tried to reflect that the rot was destroying her as well.

- arrows - hyn is a sneaky rogue and uses a classic bow and arrow, so i threw some arrows in as a little nod to that. BUT... i had them point away from her as a nod to the violence she did on others, both in this life and her previous. she's an internationally famous pirate and did SO much murder and crime. like... she wasn't responsible for the same scale of destruction and violence as strata, but she's also infamous. and she's proud of it. (also, the arrows pointing to eden was mostly incidental, but is funny enough that i'll say it's intentional. because they have a very mutually antagonistic dynamic and it delights me.)

- wolf figurine - another literal item hyndrol carries, but wolves and wolf imagery are big with her as a character. i don't have much deeper symbolism behind it than that, but the wolf imagery means a lot to me. i care her.

- wedding ring - like strata and barley, hyndrol and pevier were both married in their previous life. this wedding ring is intact, though, because those two's marriages ended... well, not as badly, to put it plainly lol. hyndrol got divorced before her death, but her ex-wife outlived her; pevier, meanwhile, lived a happy life with his husband before they both passed later in life. it's a stark contrast to the other two's tragic romances, but the outcome is much the same. they're both missing their ex-loves.

- lute & flute - listing these together even though they're not next to each other, because they're there for the same reason. pevier is a bard, and in his first life he had a lucrative career as a theater actor. in the campaign, he uses a lute, but i included a flute as well as a nod to him having other talents with performing as well. he's very skilled! king!! also, both of them have red and blue detailing wherever i could get it in there, because red and blue are the pevier colors.

- sea shell - this is the only one that i kinda put in there just to fill space, but i picked a sea shell for two reasons! one, hyndrol is a pirate who spent much of her life on the sea. reminders of that are comforting to her and remind her of home, and, pevier may not be a seafarer, but more than anyone else in the group, pevier makes an effort to see the good in others and the beauty in the world. i picked a pretty sea shell as a little nod to that.

- white feathers - kind of a segue from pevier seeing the good in others, the white feathers are a reference to an npc named lament, a guardian spirit that helped hyn, pevier, and eden at the start of the campaign. when they found out that lament had been lying to them about their motives, hyndrol and eden immediately disregarded them going forward... but pevier has continued hearing them out, and he's been willing to give them another chance and listen to their guidance. so, the feathers are a representation of that influence.

- tickets - i feel like this one is a bit self explanatory lol, but like i said, pevier was an actor in his first life! i threw in some tickets to one of his shows!! that's it, that's what this is.

- open book - i meant this as just a book of james' personal notes, whether they be about potion making or his mission. he's the most modern of the group and has a lot of shit on his person and that he's keeping track of. but i specifically had it lie open because... well, james isn't an open book per se, but he's also been pushing more for open communication in the group and for everyone to be willing to actually trust each other and work together. he's taking a leap on the others and expects that same courtesy.

- potion bottle - this one isn't that deep lmao, james makes potions!! it's something he's very skilled at!! but as a fun fact, i originally planned to have the bottle open or smashed and spilling everywhere, but then i was like... no, he wouldn't be so sloppy. so, it is neatly closed and sealed, and we don't get to see its contents.

- dog tags - this is another item i was specifically asked to include, but i decided to position it here for my own nefarious symbolism purposes. james and strata are both soldiers, just from very, VERY different circumstances. like i said before, james is the most modern of the group, and these dog tags are the kind he'd carry with him. he's a product of his homeland's military industrial complex and it's shaped a lot of who he is. strata, meanwhile, is from ancient times and had to become a soldier to survive the brutal wars her people were forced into. they're two very different kinds of soldiers, but they have a lot in common at the same time.

- wrench (+ nuts) - admittedly this one also isn't that deep, but i wanted to add some representations of some of the tools james carries with him. he makes potions! he tinkers with machinery! he is the only one here who fully understands a lot of modern technology. i love that for him.

- knife & bloodstain - ONCE AGAIN this is a recreation of a specific knife that james carries with him, with some of the specific dragon decals. i'm not gonna repeat myself with the whole "oh the weapon is pointing AT them" thing, but the dragon imagery is more common ground with him and strata. they both carry the sin of Wrath, represented by a dragon, and they're both marked by the dragon as a result. if that makes sense. (and while i don't know all the specific details for this knife's significance to james, iirc it's related to his older brother, the most important person in his life. little nod to family being important to both him AND strata.)

- violets - this is more a symbol for strata than james, but this was inspired by an answer para gave me when i sent him the questions for the into darkness quiz. a specific item he associated with strata was dried flowers. SO.... dried flowers. and i specifically chose violets because violets have a long, documented history as a symbol of sapphic love and romance.

and finally, the marble floor they're all chilling on is specifically white marble with black and gold details as a nod to the domain of eden and barley's warlock patron, key. key's domain is full of this shit!! implying they're all just passed out in key's realm.

we did it gamers

btw if anyone would be interested in a list of every little item in the picture and a description of what it means for the characters and their stories. i would be very happy to provide :3

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[meili-sheep]

You mentioned a neurodivergent Shenhe at some point before, and as one myself, I would like to give some headcanons to her and maybehaps the rest of the Brigade because the concept of them vibing together has my whole heart:

Shenhe

As I've said before, words and turns of phrase are taken literally and this leads to a bout of confusion because why would you use words that way if they already mean something else?

Shenhe loves the outdoors because not only is it quiet and calming, she can play with all sorts of senses and feelings too.

One of her favorite things to do is stand in a brook and feel the water rush by her feet and lower legs. She is also frequently barefoot in the grass and brush because it's soft and spongy, laying in the grass is heavenly to her.

The bitter herbs she eats aren't because she likes them, but because she likes the crunch and fibers in her mouth.

With the introduction of the brigade, she quickly finds that dried seaweed, wheat crackers, and peanuts also feel good in her mouth.

When she is happy or excited, she will start making random noises and rocking the upper half of her body. It's subtle, but it's noticeable if you're looking for it.

She does not like baggy clothes, as they flop from side-to-side and aren't close to her body.

Her bodily sensitivity besides that is more hyposensitive. She'll need to be told or reminded to do things sometimes because she doesn't really notice them.

Any skill she's picked up has been influenced by furthering her special interest in tending to her land. A peculiar skill she picked up was the internal ability to be able to tell the time on the dot.

Diluc

You know, you've kind of elaborated a lot on this already, but I have some other ones if you don't mind.

If it's hot outside, he's drinking a hot drink. If it's cold, he's drinking a cold drink. It's due to the sensation of 'if the external is this, I need to be that internally' thing that I and other neurodivergents I know do sometimes.

Smell is a huge deal to him. He hates the scent of wine and alcohol or anything strong, pungent, and artificial.

You will find him outside more often than not because the smell of the flowers and fruits makes him happy.

Diluc has a mixed relationship with natural fruits and vegetables that aren't raw and separated. Like, he can eat a flower of broccoli just fine, but if it's steamed and mixed with carrots and bell peppers? Nope, he doesn't like it.

His coat has been repaired and stitched to high heaven because if he doesn't have it within eyesight or wearing it, he will be teetering that much closer to a meltdown.

We know he loves birds, but he has a notebook in which he will observe one and then write some stuff down while sketching a little picture.

He's gotten mad good at sketching birds and can do it from memory and without a reference. As a result, on some papers, there are just little birds here, a larger bird there, and birds pretty much everywhere.

Yelan

Yelan doesn't seem to be neurodivergent at first, but once you see what she consumes, it makes total sense.

She hates hates hates bland and flavorless food. Oatmeal is the bane of her existence.

Another reason she doesn't eat sweets is that sugar is not nearly strong enough to give her that kick she's looking for. It's not like it's explosive or anything, so she passes on that more often than not.

Also, concerning her hobbies, she gets an immediate rush of adrenaline whenever she does something risky but it turns out fine.

When she's in very close company, you see more notable traits like the fidgeting of her bracelets and rings, shaking the dice in her cupped hands, and running her hands through her hair.

Pulling and tugging are one of her favorite things to do, she has rubber bands and elastic ropes for this purpose.

Hypersensitive to light to a T. This serves her well in her lines of work, but in regular life? Not so much. She wears sunglasses to help with this.

Show her how to do something once, and she can replicate it with the same results or even make it better.

Ayato

Textures in his mouth are a fun experiment that he subjects everyone else to as a way to show his love and appreciation for their company.

He has a particularly pleased look on his face whenever someone gives him new food to try or taste. More often than not, he hums happily when he eats it.

If he could live on boba tea, he would. At one point, it was the only thing he had. That was a rough time for him and everyone involved.

Ayato can soak up knowledge and information like a sponge, leading to somewhat random lines such as 'hey did you know this because it's cool'.

He will absolutely infodump about something he overheard while he was out as well as provide a devil's advocate argument and his own commentary.

Loud unpredictable noises are hell to this man and after being in an environment with them, he defaults to sitting at his desk with boba tea for the better part of two days. (Yes, I am aware of his Character Demo, but he was likely cringing inside)

The reason that his whole persona works so well is that people already expect him to be out of touch with reality due to his status, but most of the time he legitimately has no idea what social rules he's tossing out the window whenever he opens his mouth.

The Brigade

Diluc and Shenhe often garden together now because they love the feeling of dirt on their hands and the different textures.

Sometimes Yelan doesn't go outside because of how bright it is, so they'll come to her instead to make sure she's okay.

Ayato has given Shenhe an old coat to rip and tear through when she's particularly stressed out.

Diluc gives the best hugs, a good grounding squeeze that sets the recipients at ease.

Sometimes, Ayato will simply stop speaking. He used to get overwhelmed when that happened, but they get it, so he's relieved that he can wait it out.

Shenhe on the other hand is selectively mute, so when she speaks she also feels safe because no one will judge her for it.

One time, they caught the same hyperfixation at once and it was one of the most chaotic yet fun times of their lives.

So there we go! My thoughts. Do you have any as well?

So I did mention is here.

And I'll repeat that Diluc and Shenhe are different ends of this issue with neurodivergent where Shenhe doesn't get metaphors and such, but a masking habit Diluc is he just starts copying people's speech and sayings. So their conversations are interesting.

Shenhe just really has no flitter, but he doesn't act nearly as violently as she speaks. And I actually think she shuts down quite often and is easily overwhelmed.

Diluc, I totally agree with the smell. But also hates certain liquid consistencies. He also hates the burning and bitter taste of alcohol. I really think he hates most bitter things. I also think if he expects something to have a certain taste and it has a totally different taste, he hates that food he can never have it again, like sweet potatoes. He went in thinking they would taste like... Potato. But then it was so sweet he HATED IT.

Yelan just has so many masking behaviors she looking ended up getting diagnosed after hanging out with Diluc and Ayato. The only reason she kept the jacket was because she touched it and fell in love with the texture. It was perfect, so she took it and kept it

Ayato was probably the only one who got diagnosed early and had supportive parents who really helped him growing up. So he's got the healthiest relationship with his diagnoses.

He totally has in detailed arguments with himself where he argues both points with himself. Shenhe and Yelan can't handle listening to him as well as Diluc can.

All of them have detailed each's boundaries, and Ayato is actually the best at recognizing when someone is getting close to the overloading, and he knows the best way to help.

[cheri-translates]

[CN] Shaw’s Staying at Home Date

🍒 Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for a date, 居家之约, which has not been released in EN! 🍒

[ Released on 1 November 2021 ]

On an idle weekend, Shaw and I make plans to spend it together at home.

While waiting for him, I play the disc that he lent to me on TV - a documentary of a punk band’s tour.

The moment I plop myself down on the sofa, a series of sounds drift from beside me.

MC: ...Spicy Stick! No biting the sofa!

[Note] In CN, the dog’s name is “辣条” (là tiáo), which is a popular Chinese snack made of wheat flour and chili :>

Just as it’s about to take a bite out of the sofa, I exclaim at the teddy bear dog. It has already torn apart two pairs of slippers, a charging wire, and a cosmetic compact.

Spicy Stick is a Shichon puppy that a friend had left in my care before heading on a business trip.

As it is currently undergoing its teething phase, its main goal is to learn about the world with its mouth.

Spicy Stick gives me an indifferent glance, and has no intention of jumping off the sofa.

A nameless anger rises in my heart. Just as I’m about to assert my power, my phone suddenly rings.

Shaw: Hey, I’m downstairs. I think the lift’s broken, so I’m taking the stairs.

MC: So soon?

While speaking, I brisk walk to the door and open it. Seeing this, Spicy Stick follows me in an instant.

MC: Oh yes. Shaw, did you bring the collar?

Shaw: I did. Your friend’s dog is pretty capable - it even tore its own collar.

On the other end of the line, Shaw sounds as though he’s about to continue with his complaints. However, he suddenly pauses, his tone switching to a more light-hearted one.

Shaw: You’re watching the disc I lent you?

I glance at the TV. The vocalist of the band is in a jacket, swaying his body along with the melody.

MC: Mm. You could tell?

Shaw: Of course. I’ve watched it so many times. What about you? How do you find it?

MC: I think... aside from having a better understanding of the band, I’ve also added a huge pile of hidden treasures into my playlist~

I find myself smiling as I stare at the entrance of the stairway, able to hear footsteps drawing closer.

Shaw: Oh? Looks like aside from being attracted by their accessories and hairstyles, you’ve gained some other things.

MC: How did you know that I like their hairstyles?

Shaw: Haven’t you been posting pictures of them in your Moments every day? Or has your memory deteriorated after doing so much overtime work recently?

Just as I’m about to retort, something occurs to me. My eyes crinkle into a smile.

MC: Looks like Busy Bee Shaw has been paying close attention to me! You’re able to remember every single one of my posts so clearly.

I deliberately use an exaggerated tone, adding emphasis to my words. I don’t receive a response from the other end, and can only hear the sound of breathing as he steps on the staircase.

After a while, Shaw’s voice returns. This time, it’s much clearer.

Shaw: Tsk. So what?

I turn my face to the side. Shaw is standing at the entrance of the stairway, a pair of eyes looking frankly and directly at me.

He climbs up the stairs in a few strides. Walking over, he hands me a plain-looking paper bag.

Shaw: Here. Collar.

My heart stirs slightly. Just as I'm about to take the bag, a shadow suddenly barges into my field of vision.

??: Woof! Woof!

Accompanying two energetic barks, Spicy Stick emerges out of nowhere, lunging straight at Shaw.

Shaw’s eyes widen slightly, astonishment flashing across his face.

Although Sichons are petite, they are very strong in combat.

After Shaw enters my house, Spicy Stick remains splayed at his feet, growling loudly at him. It seems to have deemed Shaw as an “intruder” in this territory.

Shaw: Little chap, you’re pretty friendly.

Shaw: To think that I personally made a collar for you.

Shaw arches his brows slightly, retrieving a riveted collar from the paper bag. He wobbles it in front of Spicy Stick.

MC: You made it yourself?

A little surprised, I take the collar from his hand. I notice that the rivets are made from a special material and are soft to the touch. Also, the workmanship is incredibly meticulous.

MC: It looks pretty unique.

Shaw: Of course it is.

Shaw responds without a trace of humility. He removes his jacket, placing it casually on the sofa.

Shaw: This teddy bear dog has such a unique name, so it needs a unique collar too. When it heads out with this collar next time, it’d definitely not bump into another dog with the same design.

Even so, Spicy Stick doesn’t buy Shaw’s goodwill. It continues barking at him loudly and fearlessly.

MC: Spicy Stick, be a little quieter.

Spicy Stick: Woof woof!

MC: ...

Shaw: I didn’t expect it to listen to you this obediently.

Shaw tosses me a somewhat gloating glance.

Clearing my throat in embarrassment, I attempt to control the restless Spicy Stick.

During this difficult time, Spicy Stick grabs Shaw’s jacket in its mouth. Something seems to fall onto the ground, releasing an abrupt and crisp sound.

Following the sound, I spot a silver accessory falling out of the pocket. Before I can get a more precise look, Shaw quickly picks it up.

I look up at Shaw, only to see his slightly displeased expression.

MC: What’s that?

Shaw: Nothing much.

With this, Shaw frowns slightly. His face grows solemn, and he takes steps towards Spicy Stick.

Shaw: You aren’t going to stop, are you?

With Shaw’s jacket in its mouth, Spicy Stick slowly retreats to a corner of the room.

Their humongous height difference causes Spicy Stick’s earlier haughtiness and pride to dissipate. It blinks, lifting its head to look at Shaw.

Spicy Stick: Woo...

Worried that Shaw’s genuinely angry, I hurry over. Squatting down, I tap Spicy Stick on the nose.

MC: Spicy Stick, don’t be so fierce. This Big Brother isn’t an outsider. Got it? Be good, and give the jacket to me.

My appearance probably makes Spicy Stick think that the danger has been eliminated. It flits its eyes, obediently loosening its grip. Then, it licks its paw leisurely.

Lifting my hand, I hand the jacket back to Shaw.

MC: All right, don’t be mad at it.

Shaw: Hmph...

Shaw’s eyes flash slightly, as though he wants to say something. In the end, he simply releases a soft “tsk”.

Taking the jacket, he squats down like me. Then, he arches his brows lazily.

Shaw: Just saying it isn't effective.

He stares at Spicy Stick, a dangerous aura brewing in his gaze.

Shaw: It needs to learn from this experience.

-

Scattered bits of sunlight filter in through crevices of the curtains. They fall on the ends of Shaw’s hair, coating him with a soft layer of gentle light.

The documentary playing on TV has been paused. I’m lying on my stomach on the carpet, watching as Shaw draws various images on coloured cards - fire, food bowl, clothes, and other things.

MC: ...why are you drawing these things?

Shaw: You’ll know in a while.

Once he’s done with the final stroke, he covers the coloured pencil with a cap and places it at the side. Then, he takes out the dog food he’s prepared, tapping on the carpet gently.

Shaw: Spicy Stick, come here.

Hearing someone calling it, Spicy Stick comes over curiously. Lowering its head, it sniffs the cards.

Shaw: Look carefully. This is raw meat. It’s the food you eat every day. You can touch it however you want.

Shaw pauses for a moment, then takes out a few other cards.

Shaw: These are clothes. This is fire... For the sake of humanity and your own life, it’s best for you to control your exuberant curiosity when you see them, and keep your paws to yourself.

Shaw props his face up with a hand, tilting his head to look at Spicy Stick.

Shaw: If you understand this, put your paw here. I’ll give you a reward.

While saying this, he sways the snack in his hand, the other hand lightly tapping on the props he had found in my board games.

It’s rare to see Shaw being this serious. Finding this novel, I look him up and down.

But Spicy Stick turns a deaf ear to Shaw’s words.

With its round eyes, it stares at Shaw.

In the short silence, I’m suddenly struck with an idea. I lift Spicy Stick up, my hand on its bell.

“Ding...” 

The crisp sound echoes in the room. With a sly smile, I hide behind Spicy Stick.

Pinching my throat, I pretend to speak like Spicy Stick -

MC: I’ve already recognised all these cards. Next time, I’ll definitely obey instructions!

Shaw is taken aback momentarily, clearly not expecting me to do this.

I can’t help but chuckle inwardly while blinking at him with even more force.

MC: Earlier, I shouldn’t have taken your jacket away. I’ll do my best to correct my ways, and strive to become an obedient and sensible puppy. Please forgive me this time~

After saying this, I couple my words with an incredibly innocent gaze, staring directly at Shaw.

In my arms, Spicy Stick yawns at this appropriate moment.

Shaw and MC: ...

After a moment of silence, Shaw averts his gaze unnaturally, bursting into a nonchalant chuckle.

Shaw: Come to think of it, the both of you are pretty similar.

MC: What?

Shaw: Make a guess.

MC: ...you share more similarities with it! Doing whatever you like!

Spicy Stick: Woof!

Spicy Stick barks, as though agreeing with me. Probably finding this too boring, it suddenly breaks free from my arms, running off to play.

Shaw casts a sweeping glance at its happy rear view, pursing his lips.

Although Shaw isn’t facing me, I’m able to see that the corners of his lips have curled upwards.

Just as the smile on my face broadens, a series of noises draw our attention.

Shaw: ...tsk. It truly causes others to worry.

Shaw looks at the “incorrigible” Spicy Stick, his brows knitted together.

At some point, Spicy Stick has once again run over to Shaw’s jacket, taking the silver accessory from his pocket with its mouth.

This time, I finally get a clear glimpse of the accessory - it’s a necklace with a signet ring for a pendant. A lightning design is engraved on it.

Shaw is clearly exasperated.

Shaw: Be good. Let it go.

He carries Spicy Stick, carefully retrieving the necklace from its mouth before using his hand to wipe the area it had bit.

MC: Is this your necklace?

I look at Shaw with slight curiosity.

Based on my memory, he has tons of accessories. Each time we meet, he seems to don different accessories.

It’s rare to see him being so concerned about one particular accessory.

Shaw: Not exactly.

Shaw responds calmly. A certain emotion flashes across his face, as though he’s vexed over the idea of disclosing something in advance.

After a short while, Shaw looks up, staring fixedly at me.

Shaw: I was going to give it to you later. Since you’ve already seen it, I’ll do it now.

I blink, feeling a little surprised as I study the necklace in my hand.

MC: ...it’s for me?

Shaw: What’s with that expression? Is it that surprising?

Shaw arches an eyebrow, looking at me with slight displeasure.

I nod truthfully.

MC: After all, the things you gave me before were mostly...

I deliberate on my choice of words. Watching as Shaw’s brows arch even further, I immediately continue.

MC: Unique.

Shaw’s expression finally relaxes a little.

Shaw: Is that so. This is very unique too.

He points at the necklace in my hand, his tone light-hearted.

Shaw: Aside from being a necklace, this pendant can be removed and worn on the finger.

Shaw pauses, then chuckles.

Shaw: Forget it. I’m afraid you’re too stupid, so I’ll demonstrate it once for you.

He takes the necklace from me. After removing the pendant, he lifts my hand.

MC: I’m not stupid...

I grumble softly. Shaw simply chuckles, and doesn’t respond.

Strands of hair brush my chin lightly, bringing with it a refreshing scent of shampoo. Shaw lowers his head, a rare serious expression on his face.

Warm breaths sweep the spaces between my fingers, levelling out the slightly cool sensation of his fingers.

Seeing his face, which is close enough to touch, I find myself softening my own breathing. My gaze slowly sweeps across his eyes, his nose, his lips...

Shaw: Here, like this.

Shaw’s voice brings me back to my senses. My face flushes, and I pretend to be calm as I avert my gaze.

MC: [blushing] ...I’ll have a look.

Lowering my head, I see that the signet-style ring has already landed steadily onto my palm.

I scrutinise it carefully. Along with my movements, light reminiscent of flowing water glides across the lightning design engraved on it.

Shaw: How is it?

He stares at me, an almost indiscernible nervousness flashing in his eyes.

The corners of my lips curl upwards, forming a broad grin coming straight from my heart.

MC: It’s so pretty.

Shaw chuckles softly, his brows relaxing gently.

MC: Why did you suddenly think of giving me this?

I look up, meeting Shaw’s line of sight. His gaze stirs slightly, but he responds indifferently.

Shaw: Don’t you find these punk-style accessories cool? So I randomly bought one.

MC: I see...

I nod. Although I don’t say much, a layer of warmth surges from the depths of my heart.

It turns out that he remembers all these seemingly trivial and ordinary details.

As though seeing through my thoughts, Shaw’s lips curl upwards.

Shaw: If you feel like smiling, there’s no need to control it.

MC: Who says I’m controlling it?

I turn to face him, the corners of my lips arched high.

MC: Aren’t I smiling?

Loving it so much that I’m unwilling to put it down, I flip the accessory around in my hand. It emits a beautiful lustre, and seems to have undergone meticulous polishing.

After studying it carefully, I don’t find any brand logo.

MC: Is this necklace handmade?

Shaw: ...you could say that.

The glint in Shaw’s eyes flashes. From his 0.01 second pause, I detect something odd.

All of a sudden, something occurs to me. My gaze flits over to the riveted collar on the drawer at the entrance.

Shaw (flashback): Little chap, you’re pretty friendly. To think that I personally made a collar for you.

A thought suddenly emerges from my heart...

MC: Shaw, did you...

Shaw: Stop. No questions allowed. Just keep it. You can mull over the rest yourself.

Shaw interrupts my words.

I pout unhappily. Just as I’m about to retort, music drifts over to my ears -

“I’m all over my heart’s desire, I feel cold but I’m back in the fire...”

Turning towards the sound, I realise that the tour documentary on TV which was paused earlier has resumed.

And the perpetrator, Spicy Stick, is currently pawing at the remote, staring fixedly at the screen.

MC: Pfft. Looks like watching the documentary with me over the past two days has made Spicy Stick like rock music.

Storing the necklace carefully, I pat my legs before calling out to Spicy Stick.

MC: Spicy Stick, come here!

Spicy Stick tilts its head to look at me before walking over.

MC: Very obedient... hm...?

Just as Spicy Stick is about to lunge itself into my arms, its line of sight seems to be drawn to something. It suddenly changes its mind, both eyes glistening as it turns to the side.

Shaw: Mm... very obedient.

Shaw swings dog food in his hand, glancing at me with pride.

MC: [angry] ...Spicy Stick! You were bought over so easily with snacks?

With bitterness in my heart, I watch Spicy Stick’s gradually retreating form. I didn’t expect our two days of bonding to be no match for a bag of treats.

Shaw: As someone in the media industry, why are your words so inaccurate? It’s clearly a case where an afternoon of interaction has caused the both of us to cultivate a bond. Right, Spicy Stick?

[Note] There’s a writing mistake here since MC didn’t voice out her thoughts LOL

Shaw carries Spicy Stick with both hands, placing it on his lap.

Shaw: Mm, you do have a conscience. I’ll write off what happened earlier.

With an upward curl of his lips, his slender and long fingers stroke Spicy Stick’s back.

Meanwhile, Spicy Stick narrows its eyes comfortably, eating the snacks Shaw feeds to it in a leisurely manner.

Looking at this “quiet and beautiful” scene, I find myself fuming. Although I’m upset at this “snobbish” teddy bear dog...

Seeing the both of them finally interacting amicably, I can’t help but heave a secret sigh of relief.

MC: ...forget it. From a certain standpoint, this is also a good thing.

I mutter softly. Then, I shift a little closer to them, leaning against the sofa.

Shaw: [chuckles] ...

A nonchalant, soft chuckle lands on my ear. Immediately after, a warm palm is placed on the back of my hand.

I’m taken aback momentarily, feeling my heart rate accelerate slightly.

From my peripheral vision, I sneak a peek at the person next to me. He’s currently watching the TV, a faint smile hooking the corners of his lips upwards.

Outside the window, the brilliant gold sunlight from before has turned into a warm orange. It filters through the windows, spilling onto the carpet.

With a gentle blink, I return the grip of that hand.

In the tranquil room, time seems to be drawn out.

A lively melody flows in the air. On the TV screen, the band is performing a song that I happen to be familiar with, and I find myself humming along softly...

“I'm all over my heart’s desire...”

“I feel love in the shock of the lightning...”

“I fall into the blinding light. Come in, come out, come in, come out tonight...”

The grip on my hand tightens. The person beside me chuckles softly, and my cheeks subconsciously grow a little warmer.

Just as I’m about to guess that I sang off-key, Shaw makes a simple assessment -

Shaw: Mm, not bad. You didn’t go off-key this time.

My eyes crinkle into a smile. Feeling somewhat proud of myself, I speak up.

MC: Of course~ I’ve heard it so many times, and really like this song.

Shaw: Is that so? ...that’s true, it does sound like a style you’d like.

Shaw chuckles. While watching the TV, his gaze seems to drift far away.

Shaw: In the past, I wasn’t really interested in this song because I didn’t think the band was good at this style. But now that I’m listening to it, I feel differently.

MC: How do you feel about it? 

I turn to look at Shaw. He strokes Spicy Stick’s head, then chuckles softly.

Shaw: I like it, of course.

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