#your coloring technique is also stunning

[blogport]

EPOXYSHİNE - DRAGON+

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on "Epoxy Shine," where we delve into the transformative power of epoxy flooring solutions. In today’s design-driven world, achieving a polished and durable floor is essential for both residential and commercial spaces. Epoxy coatings not only elevate the aesthetic appeal but also provide long-lasting protection against wear and tear. Whether you’re considering a modern upgrade for your home or a robust flooring solution for a bustling business, epoxy shines as a versatile choice that meets a variety of needs. In the following sections, we’ll explore innovative flooring solutions, focusing on the benefits of epoxy flake flooring, which combines functionality with style for a stunning finish that can withstand the test of time. 

Epoxy Shine

When it comes to achieving a brilliant and long-lasting finish, epoxy shine is the ideal solution for various flooring needs. Known for its incredible durability and aesthetic appeal, epoxy shine enhances the overall beauty of a space while providing a protective layer that withstands wear and tear.

The key to attaining that stunning epoxy shine lies in the application process. Proper surface preparation, quality materials, and skilled application techniques combine to create a glossy finish that can transform mundane concrete floors into vibrant, eye-catching surfaces. This shine doesn’t just elevate the design; it also reflects light, making spaces appear larger and more inviting.

Moreover, epoxy shine is not just about looks; it offers significant functional benefits too. The glossy surface is resistant to stains, chemicals, and moisture, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas such as garages, warehouses, and commercial spaces. Whether for aesthetic or practical purposes, ensuring your floors have that perfect epoxy shine can significantly enhance your property's value and appeal.

Floor Solutions

When it comes to choosing the right floor solutions, there are numerous options available that cater to various needs and preferences. Whether you are going for aesthetic appeal, durability, or maintenance ease, understanding the different types of flooring can significantly impact your choice.

One popular choice for many homeowners and businesses is epoxy flooring. This option provides a sleek and modern look while ensuring high durability and resistance to wear and tear. Epoxy shine not only enhances the floor's visual appeal but also makes it easier to clean and maintain over time.

Additionally, epoxy flake floors are gaining traction due to their unique aesthetic and customization options. They allow for a blend of colors and textures, giving homeowners the flexibility to create a more personalized look for their spaces. With such a wide array of flooring solutions, it's essential to consider factors like budget, usage, and design preferences before making a decision.

Flooring Solutions

When it comes to choosing the perfect flooring for your space, the options can be overwhelming. Flooring solutions are essential for both aesthetic and functional purposes, ensuring that your space not only looks great but also serves its intended function. From residential to commercial applications, the right flooring choice can make all the difference.

One popular choice in the realm of flooring solutions is epoxy flake floor systems. This type of flooring combines durability and design flexibility, making it a favorite among many homeowners and business owners. With a wide range of colors and patterns available, epoxy flake flooring can be customized to fit any space, providing a unique look that stands out.

For those seeking a brilliant shine, epoxy shine finishes can elevate your flooring game. These finishes not only provide a glossy look but also protect the flooring from wear and tear. Utilizing a performing solution like epoxy ensures that your floors can handle heavy foot traffic while maintaining their stunning appearance.

Epoxy Flake Floor

When it comes to durable and aesthetically pleasing flooring options, epoxy flake floors stand out as a superior choice. These floors are crafted using an epoxy resin mixed with decorative flakes, resulting in a unique finish that is both functional and visually appealing. The versatility of this flooring solution allows it to be used in various settings, from residential garages to commercial spaces.

The main advantage of epoxy flake floors is their resistance to impacts, chemicals, and stains, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. Their seamless nature prevents dirt and grime accumulation, offering a low-maintenance solution that is easy to clean. Furthermore, the aesthetic flexibility of the colored flakes lets homeowners and business owners customize their floors to match existing designs and personal preferences.

In addition to their durability and style, epoxy flake floors also contribute to improved safety. The texture of the flakes can enhance slip resistance, making them a practical choice for spaces where moisture is common. Whether you're looking to upgrade your garage or create a modern showroom, epoxy flake flooring provides an excellent combination of beauty, resilience, and safety.

[durtblog]

CHAMPPAİNTİNG (4)

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Exterior Stucco Paint

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One of the key benefits of our specially formulated exterior stucco paint is its excellent adhesion and flexibility, which prevents cracking and peeling. This means that you can enjoy a beautiful, maintenance-free exterior for years to come. Additionally, our paint is available in a wide variety of colors to complement any architectural style.

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Stucco Painting

When it comes to enhancing your property’s curb appeal, stucco painting is a game-changer. This type of paint is specifically formulated to adhere perfectly to stucco surfaces, providing not only a vibrant finish but also long-lasting protection against the elements. One of the key benefits of professional stucco painting is that it helps prevent moisture infiltration, mold, and mildew, which can compromise the integrity of your walls over time.

Additionally, choosing the right vinyl paint can further enhance the aesthetic of your home or building. Many homeowners are unaware that using vinyl paint on stucco can provide added durability while maintaining a stunning appearance. The versatility of stucco painting allows you to select colors that complement your surroundings beautifully, giving you the freedom to express your style.

Finding painters near me who specialize in stucco painting is crucial to achieving a seamless finish. Local professionals bring not just skill but valuable knowledge of the best techniques suited for your region’s climate. They understand how to properly prep your stucco surface to ensure that the paint adheres well and faces minimal wear and tear.

Don’t wait any longer to transform your space with expert stucco painting services. Reach out to us at Champpainting today to schedule your consultation and discover the difference that high-quality exterior stucco paint can make for your home!

Vinyl Paint

Vinyl paint is an excellent option for homeowners seeking a durable and weather-resistant finish that stands the test of time. With its unique formulation, it adheres beautifully to various surfaces, making it a versatile choice for both interior and exterior applications.

One of the standout features of vinyl paint is its low maintenance requirement. Once applied, you can rest assured that the vibrant colors will maintain their integrity against harsh weather conditions and UV exposure, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups.

When considering exterior stucco paint or stucco painting, adding vinyl paint to your project can enhance both aesthetics and durability. Coupled with the expertise of professional painters near you, your property will not only look great but will also be better protected from the elements.

Painters Near Me

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When you choose Champ Painting, you not only get professional expertise but also a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Our local painters understand the unique demands of your property's materials and provide tailored solutions that enhance your home's curb appeal.

Don’t waste time searching for “painters near me”. Contact Champ Painting for a free consultation and let us help you transform your space with our top-notch painting services. Our reputation as trusted painters in your area speaks for itself.

Ready to get started? Visit our website or give us a call today to discover how our exterior stucco paint, stucco painting, and vinyl paint services can elevate your home’s aesthetics.

[satorkive]

A MORTAL AND A GOD 𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒ SATORU

gojo satoru, the strongest and the most attractive man who graced this earth, thinks you’re the most beautiful girl he has ever seen.

and that’s objectively true.

when the ivory-haired boy first met your breathtaking face, he was stunned.

he was cracking a joke with suguru when you stepped inside the classroom.

and wow. you managed to make their breaths away by just existing.

he even heard suguru muttering ‘holy shit’ before he immediately closed his mouth. even yaga-sensei stared at you (not in a creepy way, no). he seemed in awe.

your teacher cleared his throat and gestured for you to introduce yourself.

your steps were light and graceful, like a ballerina dancing on a platform. your skirt bounced around your legs and it made you look like a girl getting ready for a dance.

you waved your hand and gave them a smile that could even save them from having expensive electricity bills.

“hi! i’m [name]! nice to meet you!” your mellifluous voice rang around the room and suguru couldn’t help but cursed again.

“holy fuck.”

“geto.” yaga’s deep, thunderous voice made the student’s face cold.

your giggles feel like a twinkling bells during christmas that satoru didn’t speak for the whole day.

that’s how impressive your presence affected him.

since then, he has found himself wanting your attention. he wants those pretty, pretty eyes of yours to always bathe him with attention.

his nickname for you was bambi.

you are like a deer—wide, expressive eyes surrounded by long lashes; nose that scrunches up cutely when he does something silly; lips that always seems to be pouting and begging to be kissed; and those freckles. god, those beautiful freckles that look like constellations and can probably map the universe if someone wants to.

he would gladly smooch that lips if only suguru and shoko stopped being hindrances!

suguru, the traitor, seems to be in competition with satoru. his upturned eyes crinkle at the sight of your beaming face whenever you talk about clouds, flowers, and nature with him. he also can’t take his eyes off you. you are like the sun—beckoning everyone to have a light of yourself. you are the only thing that put a smile on other people’s faces. you bless them with your unending kindness, stunning grace, and a heart of gold. if heaven is a sight, you surely are it.

shoko, the betrayer, wants to hog all your divine attentiveness. being the sole student in medicine, she finds herself being enamored at you when you asks her questions regarding her technique. how does it work? how sure are you it will work? can anyone do it? can i see you do it?

when she sees how celestial your presence emits around her, she now understands why suguru can’t stop staring at you and why satoru can’t stop rambling about you.

satoru. oh, satoru.

poor satoru who can’t still figure out why your lips smile brighter when you see him. he can’t still figure out why your steps are full of pep. he can’t figure out why you almost do a pirouette when you turn back to look at him. he can’t figure out why your cheeks seem to have a color on it.

poor, dense satoru.

all he wants to do is to be yours forever and ever; because no woman will ever be it for him as he is yours and you are his and he knows—he knows in his life that if a devil ever lays his eyes on you, he will bend on his knees and repent because—

you made a god like him leave the heavens and on bended knees; crawling to you and kissing your feet like a devoted prayer.

[maya1525]

SUCK ~ & ~ F*CK 😋🍾

✩ Featuring Megumi Fushiguro ✩

18+MDNI

Pairing✩࿐Fem!Reader X Megumi Fushiguro

WARNINGS✩࿐Fem!Reader giving oral, unprotected vaginal sex, cream pie, sex in front of others, language, chocking, rough sex

Word count✩࿐1.9k

Summary✩࿐This is based on my original post: SUCK ~ GUESS ~ F*CK. But you know ahead of time whose dick is in your slutty mouth. Megumi drew 10 of Spades ♠️

A/N✩࿐I like the thought of having an aggressive and possessive Megumi. Yet, he still wants to share you with his friends 😈 he loves showing others how amazing you are. I also felt like having a dominant Fushiguro boyfriend compliments the two other sweet and cuddly boyfriends. Feedback is highly appreciated, I love reading your comments! 😙💖

“The game is quite simple.” Gojo stated in a matter-of-fact tone, “You’re going to be blindfolded and will have to guess which man's dick is in your mouth. If you guess incorrectly, the man gets to choose which position to fuck you in. If you guess correctly, then you get to choose the position. To keep things interesting, you’ll suck dick for three minutes and get fucked for seven.”

You nodded your understanding as you sat on the large and cushy futon in Gojo’s apartment. He had planned on fucking you alone tonight, but your boyfriends wanted in on the action, plus they thought it would be a good idea to invite two of their friends, Mechamaru and Noritoshi.

You felt your cheeks warm up with excitement, never in your life, you’ve felt so deeply desired before. Everyone’s eyes were on you, especially because you wore a revealing teddy one-piece. Satoru bought it for you, and it complimented your figure perfectly. He even put a stunning custom collar on you, with a diamond-covered ‘S’ on it.

You couldn’t help but feel a little embarrassed to be this exposed in front of Noritoshi and Mechamaru. You were familiar with both of these men, but you were still getting used to human Mechamaru. Muta was on the leaner side compared to your boyfriends, he had sharp features and a large and noticeable scar on his upper cheek. While Kamo on the other hand always seemed like a strong and serious leader among his comrades. The thought that he yearned for you just as much as your boyfriends made you wonder what he would be like when he fucked you. The thought made you anticipate his turn.

While you thought about those two men, your eyes were subconsciously drawn to both of them. Noritoshi sat on the far side of the sectional, his heated gaze stared you down hungrily. Beside him sat your boyfriend Megumi with a starved look in his midnight blue eyes. Next sat Itadori, he eyed you with such desperation, that it looked as if he was going to jump off the couch any second to get to you. Next to him sat Satoru smugly, his eyes gleamed playfully in your direction. Beside him was Muta, he eyed shyly with a faint blush on his face. To his left sat Yuuta and Inumaki, Toge was leaning into the couch comfortably, his violet-colored eyes sparkling over your stunning body with admiration and Yuuta had a similar look of awe on his face.

“Ok Y/n, I’m going to put this on you if you’re ready,” Satoru murmured, his gorgeous blue eyes gleaming down at you, while he wrapped his black blindfold around your eyes.

You were shocked at how you couldn’t even see small streams of light through it. You had always assumed that it was sheer fabric and that Gojo could slightly see through it, but you were mistaken. Satoru’s amazing Six Eyes technique is one to behold, he certainly is the strongest jujitsu sorcerer.

“OK, now that her eyes are covered, I’m going to hand each of you a playing card. Whoever draws the highest card gets to go first.” Satoru explained nonchalantly, as the sound of him shuffling the cards expertly made itself known in your ears.

After a short moment of listening to each man shift on the couch to get their card, Gojo spoke. “Now let’s reveal our cards.” You heard a few small sighs of excitement from some of the men, and you also heard some hisses of displeasure, assuming that they would have to wait a while until their turn.

You then sense the presence of another male standing in front of you. The familiar sound of undoing his pants in front of your face made itself known. He set both of his hands on each side of your face, as he thrust his hips forward. You opened your mouth obediently and felt his hard dick slip into your mouth and down your throat. The sudden feeling of him that deep in you, caused you to gag a little bit, but you still sucked him off hungrily.

He gently pumped his hips against your mouth, and you submissively held still while he face fucked you. You had a strong feeling that tomorrow you won’t have a voice. He tugged on your leash, causing you to slightly choke around him. He briefly removed himself from your slippery mouth to give you a little breather. In return, you softly sucked the tip of his dick. You swiveled your tongue around his sensitive head while jacking him off with your right hand.

You then opened your mouth up wide and let him pump his dick down your throat. Your jaw ached slightly, but you obediently kept your mouth open for him. With the leash still pulled tight, he fucked his hips against your face harshly.

The other men who sat on the couch watched as Megumi face fucked you brutally. You were constantly choking and gagging on him, and they were amazed that you let him treat you so harshly. You were certainly well-trained. Fushiguro’s dark blue eyes rolled to the back of his head in sick pleasure, if he kept going he’d finish in your mouth.

This man then pulled himself from your mouth to give you a little break, you leaned forward and kissed his shaft softly. Your kisses trailed from the head of his penis to the base. All while you left juicy kisses on him, you were able to feel his dick ache towards you with want.

Suddenly the timer went off, you were too busy leaving kisses on his cock to think of who this person is. “Umm, Itadori?” You croaked out with uncertainty as you brought the blindfold down. You locked eyes with your boyfriend Megumi.

“Sorry sweetie, but that's a wrong guess. Now go straddle Inumaki and Yuuta. I wanna fuck you overtop them.” Fushiguro stated nonchalantly, as he helped you up off the futon. You couldn’t help but blush at your boyfriend’s request, it seemed almost mean to tease them like that. Nonetheless, they were your boyfriends too and you were curious about how this was going to play out.

You settled yourself so Yuuta’s left leg and Toge’s right were between your thighs, the both of them eyed you longingly. Hopefully, soon it’ll be their turn, it looked as if Yuuta couldn’t wait any longer. You felt Megumi fondle your ass with approval as he placed the head of his dick at your moist entrance. Without delay, he pressed his hips against your bubbly ass cheeks. His cock was angled into your pussy in the most delectable way, a needy whine escaped your lips in response. Moaning so cutely while looking at Toge made him want to snatch you from Megumi’s grasp.

Fushiguro leaned close from behind and whispered in your ear, “Go on, kiss them.”

He didn’t have to tell you twice, you immediately sent your lips crashing down against Yuuta’s while you tangled your fingers in Inumaki’s platinum locks lovingly. Yuuta kissed you back with so much affection, he needed you then and there, but he’ll have to wait his turn like everyone else. His lips moved passionately against yours, while Fushiguro set into a steady rhythm of plowing his veiny rod into you. Each thrust caused you to lurch forward, making it a little hard to keep yourself steady. You found yourself hanging onto Yuuta’s shoulder for balance. You then switched over to Inumaki, whose violet-colored eyes grazed over you friskily. His lips collided with yours hotly. You felt Toge’s hand sneak way onto your thigh and began to tease his nimble fingers on your soft skin.

Fushiguro burrowed his dick into you so perfectly, he placed both of his hands on your slim waist to keep you steady. Every time his hips met your cheeks, loud clapping sounds would echo through the room lewdly. You couldn’t help but moan wantonly, you were loving the fact that you were able to enjoy all three of your boyfriends at the same time. Okkotsu guided your face back to his, he desired your attention. Your lips tangled with his seductively, while you felt his left hand rest on your hip, right below Megumi’s hand.

“I think their dicks need a little love,” Fushiguro grunted out from behind you. You hastily tried to undo the button on Yuuta’s pants, but doing it one with one hand was a little tricky. You felt him smile against your lips and helped you out, soon enough his hard and needy dick sprang free from its confines. You quickly brought your other hand down to Inumaki’s pants, and he helped you unbutton them as well.

You brought your palm up to your mouth to lick it for the extra lubricant and then did the same to your other hand. With Fushiguro holding you securely, you no longer need to grip Yuuta for stability. Your soft hands gripped both of your boyfriends' hot and eager cocks. You pumped them in union and admired the flushed looks they shared. Inumaki thrust his hips toward your hand instinctively, while Yuuta shuddered with delight.

You completely forgot that you still had the leash on, until Inumaki gently tugged on it, in order to have you kiss him again. He pulled you close and the both of your tongues wrestled with each other. You pumped your hands on their shafts with more desperation, you heard Yuuta moan softly in response. Fushiguro then reached forward and took the leash from Inumaki, he yanked it harshly causing your airway to close up. His thrusts became more powerful and his dick slid into you scrumptiously. You felt him bite down on your shoulder possessively, knowing that he would leave a nasty mark.

You couldn’t breathe, but you didn’t care. Even though you were suffocating, the pleasure you felt from Fushiguro’s heavenly dick made you drunk on ecstasy. Inumaki took his hand from your thigh to your sensitive clit, he knew exactly how to touch you. His sneaky fingers rubbed your clit at electric speed, making you cry out helplessly. Yuuta placed his hand on your plump breast, squeezing it softly. He teased your pebbled nipples, as they shook vigorously from every thrust. Sparks of hot bliss shook you to your core, you knew you couldn’t last any longer due to the overstimulation.

You were quickly losing feeling in both your hands due to the lack of oxygen, but Megumi was almost there. He clutched the leash tightly while he pounded you ruthlessly. It was sweet, sweet torture, and you couldn’t handle it anymore. The combination of Inumaki’s teasing fingers, Yuuta’s sweet caresses, and Megumi’s constant penetration. You quickly fell victim to your third orgasm.

Your slick juices coated Fushiguro’s rod tastily, giving him more lubricant to plow you with extra force. He came hard and fast, shooting his milky liquid into your pulsating pussy. As soon as he released himself in you, he let go of the leash, and finally, you could breathe again. You gasped for air greedily, taking it in as if you weren’t going to have another chance.

Right on cue, the timer went off. Fushiguro pulled himself out of your comfortable warmth and helped you off Inumaki and Okkotsu. Your cunt leaked cum all over both men’s pants as Megumi guided you off of them and back to the futon.

Your legs felt weak and your cunt was a hot and sticky mess, but you only had three guys left. You can push through a little bit longer, you’re more than halfway there! You sat on the comfy cushions and lazily put your blindfold back on.

Next

[john-get-the-salt]

Oblivious (w/Derek Morgan)

Imagine: From strangers, to coworkers, to friends, to…? The evolution of you and Derek

Contains: Derek getting nervous/panicking when his usual flirting doesn’t work, penny not so secretly trying to push you two together, new agent on the team! Au

Warnings: none

The quiet hum of the elevator was oddly comforting as you stood in it, watching the display as it went up up up…..

You couldn’t stop fidgeting, brushing non-existent dust off your dress pants and pulling on the sleeves of your sweater. You’d agonized for hours on what to wear to your first day at this new job. You wanted to be comfortable but also professional. The BAU didn’t have a tight dress code for the office, though it got strict when in the field.

You tried to steady your nerves, using your favorite mindfulness technique of breathing in, holding for 5 seconds, and then releasing. It worked a bit, your shoulders easing.

Your constant stream of thought was interrupted by the elevator beeping and opening its doors to your floor.

You filled before leaving the safety of the elevator and walking through another lobby area towards a set of glass doors.

'Behavioral Analysis Unit' was printed in large black letters, and they seemed to loom over you. Before you could reach for the door handle, a blonde woman stepped up beside you.

"Let me guess, first day?"

You smiled ruefully. The woman wore colorful clothes with blue glasses perched on her nose.

"That obvious, huh?"

"Not at all,” she lied. “Do you need help finding the right office?" She offered.

Your smile widened in relief, "That would be great. I'm looking for Agent Hotchner, I'm joining his team."

Your final interview happened in person with the Agent, but it'd been a few weeks and you didn't want to risk getting lost.

Her eyes lit up. "You're the new recruit! I'm Penelope, but everyone calls me Garcia. I was just heading in, I can show you the way."

You thanked her and followed her through the glass doors. The BAU floor was as busy as you expected. People were weaving about, clutching coffee and files and paperwork.

Garcia led you through the floor, towards a row of raised offices. She knocked on the door to the first one, giving you a thumbs up before scurrying away.

“Come in.”

With one last deep breath, you opened the door.

Agent Hotchner was rising from his desk as you stepped in. He offered you his hand and you shook it firmly.

“Agent Hotchner, good morning.”

“Good morning. Hotch is ok. Good to see you again.”

“You as well.”

He gestured to the chair in front of his desk and you took a seat as the two of you went over some general pre-boarding information. You also received your badge and other keys to get around the office building.

Hotch explained that the team didn't yet have a case for the day, but he'd called a meeting so everyone could meet you. Afterwards you would be working on paperwork for the day, unless the team was needed elsewhere. That was fine with you, someone who actually enjoyed paperwork, and you followed as your new boss led you out of his office and down the hall.

You approached a conference room and could see it was already full. Of course as soon as you stepped into the room all eyes were on you. You held your chin high and met their gazes evenly. As nervous as you were joining a new team, you were confident in yourself and your abilities. You’d been hired for a reason, and you had to believe that.

"Team, this is Agent (y/n)."

They stood up one by one, introducing themselves with either a handshake or a nod. David, J.J, Derek, Spencer, Emily, and Penelope once again. You committed the names to memory, introducing yourself.

"We haven't had anything come in yet today, but we all have plenty of paperwork to keep us busy." And with a nod Hotch was gone again.

You have looked a bit stunned, as Rossi chuckled. "He isn't much of a talker."

“I respect it. Straight to the point."

You turned to Garcia as the team began filing out of the room, “Thank you again, for this morning."

Her smile got even brighter, something you didn't think was possible..

“Oh of course! Not a problem at all. Do you need me to help you find your desk?”

You chuckled. "No, Hotch pointed it out for me. But we could pretend you're helping me and chat on the way."

"Ohhhh new girl I like you."

She led the way out of the conference room and down the stairs into the pen of desks and agents. She asked a lot of questions, which you answered as quickly as you could. It was a lot of basic stuff about what you liked to do and where you had worked before this. It was incredibly relieving having someone so kind and so willing to talk you. And it was endearing to see how enthusiastic she was to learn about you.

Unfortunately, you did eventually make it to your desk and she had to leave you.

"This is your stop," she sighed dramatically. "I suppose I should return to my cave now."

You laughed, setting down your bag at your new desk. She’d told you all about her little tech cave and already told you were welcome to stop by anytime.

Your desk was situated by Derek and Emily’s and you shot them both a smile as you sat down.

"I'll be here all day, Penelope. And who knows, I might get lost trying to get lunch."

She clapped her hands. "Yes! Lunch! Ok my love I shall go and see you again at lunch!"

You smiled and waved as she hustled away.

"You two are already getting along well," Derek noted.

“I guess so. She's incredibly sweet."

He had no argument with that, and went quiet again as you clicked your pen and opened your folder. The towering stack of paperwork probably would've made other agents feel faint. But you couldn't help but feel content. As much as you loved working in the field, you'd been through enough crazy circumstances that you would never take advantage of a peaceful desk day.

"Yikes," Emily winced, catching a glance at the work in front of you. "Newbie paperwork....no joke."

"Call me crazy, but I actually do not mind paperwork."

She fake gasped and you laughed. "I know, I know. Controversial opinion. It just feels so satisfying to get it done."

"You and pretty boy would get along great."

You raised an eyebrow at Derek so he clarified, "Reid, aka pretty boy."

"Ah, no love for paperwork yourself?"

He gave you a dazzling smile that you were sure made other girls swoon. "Unfortunately we don't all get excited for desk work, sweetheart."

You rolled your eyes, but shot him a smile so he knew you were only kidding. The floor got quiet again as everyone finally settled in for the days work.

————

A month or so after that fateful first day, you couldn’t believe you’d ever been that nervous. Your coworkers was great, and after an awkward week or two you found your place and fit perfectly into the puzzle that was your BAU team.

You’d made friends with everyone on the team in different ways, though the biggest surprise had been Derek. You two just worked, and often got paired together out in the field. You made a good team. And though you had more than proved yourself in the short time since you’d started, Derek tended to keep an extra eye on you.

It was obnoxiously sunny out in Colorado, where the team was currently investigating a string of ritualistic murders. Hotch sent you and Derek to go check out the latest dumping ground, out in the middle of some barren desert land. Without any trees for shade the sun was particularly harsh.

Out of bad habit, you’d left your sunglasses back at the police station where you’d set up home base. This meant you were stuck squinting and trying to use your hands as a visor so you could see.

Luckily you only had to struggle for a few moments before Derek was nudging you and offering you his signature black sunglasses.

“Oh no, that’s ok Der. You need em. Next time i’ll just be smarter and remember mine.”

“That’s what you said last time baby girl. Which is why..” he trailed off as he pulled a second pair of identical glasses out of his back pocket. “I bought myself a backup pair.”

“Huh.” You chuckled before you took his offer and slid the glasses onto your face. “It’s almost like you knew I’d forget them.”

Derek just grinned, and the two of you got to work.

And when the two of you returned to the police station in your matching sunglasses, even Hotch cracked a smile.

————

A couple months after first meeting the team you couldn't imagine working anywhere else ever again.

You adored every single person in their own way, and you loved working with them every single day.

Hotch, stoic and closed off, was absolutely brilliant. He always seemed to know what the team needed even if you didn't yourselves. He was someone you really looked up too and idolized.

Jennifer, or JJ as everyone called her, was kickass. She was so good at handling press you would've thought she'd been doing it her entire life. You were in awe of her and absolutely adored her son Henry. 

Emily, when you were first getting to know her, was a bit quiet and reserved. It took a while for her to open up to you, but with the help of some team work and margaritas she finally felt safe and comfortable around you. She was unbelievably sassy, and contrary to popular belief enjoyed playing pranks on the rest of the team. 

Rossi was deceptively smart. He knew exactly how to get under an unsubs skin and look damn fly while doing it. You could only hope to be in the game as long as he was, and tried to mentally write down everything he ever said. He was currently in the process of trying to teach you how to cook, something you were slowly improving at.

Reid was the smartest person you had ever met. Hands down. He was easy to talk to and greeted you every morning with a fact of the day. It made you happy and he seemed to enjoy having someone to spout numbers at.

Penelope, or Penny as you now called her, was like the teams own personal sunshine. You had lunch together every day, and some weekends spent more time at her apartment than your own. The team had come to call you two sisters, and most days it really felt like you were. You two just got each other.

Last but not least was Derek Morgan. Derek was, to you, an enigma. His charm was always at +20 around you. Emily assured you that's just how he always was, but Penny seemed to think different. She was convinced you two had something going on.

But to be honest you really didn't know much about the man. You knew he liked baseball, loved sushi and secretly enjoyed fruity margaritas. He fixed houses in his spare time and had an uncanny ability to recite Brittney Spears word for word. You also knew he was incredibly good at getting what he needed out of unsubs, never afraid to take one for the team and do what needed to be done. He could also be a hothead, letting his anger take control and lash out.

Did you think he was attractive? Oh absolutely. Did he make you question every decision you'd ever made that led you to know such a fine man? No doubt. But he was was a friend, and a coworker at that.

Which was why as Penny bugged you at the coffee station about your "crush" for the millionth time one day, you thought nothing of it.

"Penny, we've been over this like a thousand times. There's nothing going on."

"What's going on?" Derek stepped up beside you, empty coffee mug in hand.

You rolled your eyes as you poured him a cup. "Nothing, just Pen getting overzealous per usual."

You smiled innocently at the glare your friend sent you before retreating back to your desk. It was only 1 p.m and you still had plenty to get done for the day.

Penelope and Derek loitered the coffee bar for another couple minutes before they dispersed, Derek returning to his desk beside yours.

"Baby girl is really on it today."

You snorted, not looking up from the current sheet you were filling out.

"You're telling me. I woke up this morning to 20 texts asking what I was going to wear today. She was worried she'd accidentally match again."

Morgan laughed, thinking back to the time you and Garcia had both come into work wearing the same sky blue dress. She loved you to death, but vowed it could never happen again.

You smiled softly, enjoying his laugh. It often made you laugh just hearing it. It was infectious, kind of like the man himself the more you thought about it.

"You doing anything exciting this weekend?"

"Don’t think so. If we actually get the days off I'll probably just sleep as long as humanly possible. Maybe try to cook. Rossi is not amused with my lack of progress in that department."

"You wanna go get Indian tonight?"

You perked up. "Yes please! I'll ask Spence if he wants to come, he didn't come last time and I really think he'd like the-"

"I don't want pretty boy to come," Derek interrupted.

You snapped your lips closed, raising an eyebrow. "Is this because of that prank phone call? Cause I'm sorry Der but that was hilarious and-"

"No Reid. Just us."

You furrowed your brows. Was he really still that pissed at Spencer for his dumb pranks? He always acted pissed but you thought he realized it was all for fun. Was there something else going on between the two of them?

He sighed. "You know, for a genius profiler you're pretty clueless."

"Hey! Who you calling clueless, clueless?"

He leaned forward over his desk, making direct eye contact and said, "I'm trying to ask you out on a date here."

Your mouth formed an o as the words sunk in.

A date. With Derek Morgan. Like a romantic date. With Derek. Date.

"Like a date? A date date?"

"You don't have to say yes if you don't want too, and I understand if you don't," he rambled on as you sat dumbfounded.

"Of course I want to go on a date with you. I just can't believe how fucking dumb I am."

He froze, searching your eyes for any tricks.

“Really?”

"I've been flirting with you for the past month, Der. I just can't believe you finally got the balls to ask me out and I was totally oblivious."

"Mama if you didn't think i was flirting back that entire time, you really are oblivious."

"Maybe I'm not, and you just need to step up your game. "

"Hey!" It was his turn to exclaim and you laughed.

"So Indian. Tonight. After work."

"It's a date."

[cooketimm]

Hardboiled #10-25 (1990-98) cover artwork by Bruce Timm

Interview from Cool Stuff Magazine #1 (1995):

Gary Lovisi: Much of your work is characterized by raw, intense energy and action, or beautiful women in stylish, dangerous settings. Some is obviously influenced by the pulps.

Bruce Timm: I’m big pulp fan, have been since the early 70s, when I started reading Doc Savage and Avenger reprints. I can’t really say how they’ve influenced my artwork much, except when doing pulp-homage stuff like the Bob Price books. But I do sometimes wish I was born decades earlier so I could have worked for some of the old pulps, which was why it was so much fun doing the Price stuff, and the «mock 50s» paperback covers for your Gryphon Books.

The hero pulps — Doc Savage, The Spider, The Shadow, etc — did have a big impact on my approach to the Batman cartoons. It’s something I tried to inject into the show from early on, the atmosphere, danger and illicit excitement, and especially that Norvell Page-type feeling of impending doom — the «doomed city» mood. It’s also why I set the sense in a timeless, 40s-styled world of big cars, padded shoulders, gangsters, shadowy streets, etc. I only wish we’d gone farther with it.  

For instance, my original version of Batman himself was actually close to the Shadow: rarely seen close-up, speaking in short, clipped phrases, more mysterious, literally. I wanted to play him cold and remote, almost unhuman. But the network and our various story editors would have none of that!  «We need to humanize him», «He needs to have a sense of humor», «We need to more about Bruce Wayne, the person», etc! Whereas I could care less about Bruce Wayne! He’s much more fascinating if you don’t know what he’s thinking, or what drives him.

A few «Shadowy» touches did survive. Batman is rarely seen be the public, almost never on TV. Even when dealing with the police, he’s usually off in shadows conferring with Commissioner Gordon only. And when he’s in the Batcave, he’s almost always in costume. My way of saying he’s Batman, not the other guy, not Bruce Wayne. Like Lamon Cranston, his true, «legal» identity is a facade.

I’ d love to do straight-ahead pulp hero adaptation someday. Doc or The Shadow or The Spider, either in comics or animation, without the senseless updating and over-explaining «character development» like in the Alec Baldwin-Shadow-fiasco-film.  

Gary Lovisi: Your stunning covers for my Hardboiled mag are very popular with everyone who sees them. What are your feelings on hardboiled crime-related art?

Bruce Timm: It’s hard, actually, to define «crime-fiction» art. There’s pulp crime-fiction art, and digest crime-fiction art, both of which cross over with paperback crime-fiction art. Basically, I’m a fan of good illustration. Period. Regardless of subject matter. Composition, emotionally intensity, color and lighting effects are what I look for. And pretty girls, of course!   

My favorite pulp crime artist is H. J. Ward, hands down. Gorgeous gals in twisty curvy poses, painted in luscious, creamy, wet-on-wet oil technique. My favorite paperback artists include Robert McGinnis, Robert Maguire, and Mitchell Hooks, the usual suspects.

My approach to the Hardboiled covers is different from my earlier «homage» work. When the covers were black and white, I used to experiment with different b&w textures, coquille board, zip-a-tone, xeroxed newsprint, whatever worked. Now that I’m doing them in color, I’m trying to make them as exciting and eye-catching as possible, with loud color, sexy gals, exaggerated action, and simple, graphic, almost cartoony styling.

[waterfire1848]

Au. No war. Azula at age 6 is far more powerful, stronger, and better. Trains and learned everything you could ever think of, fire lightning bending, all nations bending styles moves techniques and movements, swordman, chi, hth combat, martial arts, flight. Already have blue flames that have heat temp. C 3100, hides it from everyone, only showing gold flames, and not letting them know she already also mastered the lightning. (Can redirect lightning, and the dragon dance after secretly watch iroh do it once, managed to learn it in just 5 minutes). trains even harder that she already have indigo flames have heat temp. C 4200 at age 10. Then at age 14 can do violet flames that have heat temp. C 7100. Have scars, burns everywhere from training her heat resistance to the same level of her heat temp. And now also have hear resistance of C 7100. Invented fire healing after it and healed her body that scars, burns are barely visible (no fire benders can and could burn her, since she have the hottest fire and resistance to it, while theirs are not even hot to her anymore).... Fire family (all members) along with Mai tylee are in SouthernWaterTribe (already knows hakoda's family). When ozai challenges azula in a fight (not an agni Kai) for her disobedience, expecting that he would manage to burn and humiliate azula badly. All family members/water tribes/hakoda's family all watch since they can't stop it. At first azula just let him have fun, then proceed to beat the shit out of ozai (as they fight on the ground or flying (only azula) on the air (since ozai have limit), or should I say azula beating ozai). all ozai's attack (fire and lightning) are useless to her. The audience are speechless, stunned. At the end of the battle, azula doesn't even have 1 scratch at all, and not even tired... (Water tribes are happy that ozai got his ass kick, since they are tension with him). After it, as all of them are in a dining room, hakoda and Kya ask azula if she can teach their daughter some simple or basic waterbending moves since they recognized some on the fight earlier (katara are in awe when they tell her that some of those moves are waterbending). while fire family are still jaw drop since azula hides her real strength and power in the past.... Maizula tyzula azutara Romantic.

Hello, anon!!!

1. There is no war but there is tension among the nations. Ozai constantly says that war could break out at any moment and most Fire Nationals, especially the nobility, agree with him. Since they’re worried about a war, it’s expected that the children train and become stronger. Azula and Zuko are expected to train both because of a possible war and because they’re part of the Royal Family. Zuko is a decent firebender and trains as best he can but Azula hears that she needs to be ready to fight and runs with it. When she’s younger, she trains every second of every day. Even when everyone has gone to bed, she sneaks out of her room and practices her bending, learning as much as she can to prepare for the upcoming battle. Ozai catches her once but he doesn’t notice her blue flames that she was training with when he does. Instead, she quickly changes her color back to orange. (Ozai: Azula, what are you doing? Azula: Training! I wanted to master the Chameleon. Ozai, chuckling: That’s adorable. The Chameleon is far too advanced for you. You can learn it when you’re older. Azula: When? Ozai: Wait until you reach ten. But I do admire your determination. It’s exactly what I would expect from a Princess of the Fire Nation. Now, off to bed. You have your tutor bright and early in the morning. Azula: Yes, father). Azula decides not to tell him that she already mastered the Chameleon move two months ago.

2. Azula is seven when Hakoda’s family comes to visit. Azula has no idea why a Water Tribe family is coming to the palace when they’re, potentially, the enemy. Ursa just tells her and Zuko to be on their best behavior and not mention anything about a potential war or the tension between the Fire Nation and South Pole. Azula does her job, she keeps her mouth shut, but she doesn’t like that she has to sit across from a waterbender. After eating, their parents remain to talk while the kids go into the garden. After some back and forth, Azula soon realizes that Katara and Sokka aren’t like what she was expecting. They’re not mean or violent or destructive, nothing like what her father described. (Katara: Tag! You’re it! Azula: Are we allowed to use our bending? Sokka: No! That’s not fair! Katara: Yes! Azula, using her fire jets to launch herself forward and tag Zuko: You’re it, Zuzu! Katara: What was that?!? Azula:….Fire jets. I thought we could use bending. Did…was that not allowed? I’ve never played tag. Sokka: THAT WAS AWESOME!) By the time the sun has set, Azula finds that she doesn’t want to stop playing with them. She likes getting the chance to be a somewhat normal kid but also have people who find her advanced skills awesome not because they can get something out of it but because they recognize how great of an accomplishment it is.

3. Time goes on and the Water Family continues to come and visit. Azula and Katara end up spending quite a bit of time together since Katara is also a bender and is allowed to use the training arena to practice. The two spar from time to time but it’s most time dedicated to them working separately. During one visit, the two are sparring together and Katara accidentally trips trying to avoid one of Azula’s flames and falls onto Azula. The two look up at one another with blushes all over their faces. (Katara: I….ummm….I’m sorry I didn’t mean to- Azula: You don’t have to apologize. It was my fault for tripping you. But do you…do you mind getting off me? Katara: Yes! I mean no! No, I do not mind.) Azula only realizes after Katara leaves that she has a massive crush on the waterbender but she also realizes something else. Her father’s words about tension and an incoming war seem more and more like a well done lie.

4. One day, when Azula is 14, the family is together having dinner with the Water Tribe family. During the evening, Ozai starts talking about the Fire Nation military and talking about how it’s grown insanely powerful. His words make things tense and it’s clear that he’s using the to subtly suggest that Hakoda and his family have to support them if war does break out of risk being destroyed. (Ozai: Someone could get hurt *looks at Katara and Sokka*.) Azula speaks up before Hakoda does, angered that Ozai lied to her, threatened the WT and, most of all, angry that he threatened Katara. Ozai, obviously, gets angry at her as well for her disobedience and orders her to remain quiet. Azula refuses and Ozai challenges her to an Agni Kai. Ursa and Zuko try to step in on Azula’s behalf, both of them believing that Azula is a good bender but she would get destroyed by Ozai, and Azula refuses. She says that she is more than capable of taking on her father and they head to the Agni Kai stage. At first, it looks like Azula will lose. Only Katara notices that Azula’s skin isn’t being burned by Ozai and the entire fight seems too….easy for her. It’s like she’s an autopilot the entire time. Then, at the one or two minute mark of the fight, Azula starts actually fighting. She’s not only better trained and has more skills than him but she’s also faster and smaller than him and able to avoid his attacks a lot more. (Ursa: Should we stop this? Hakoda: Why would you? Azula’s winning.). The fight doesn’t even last another two minutes before Azula beats her father and is declared the champion.

5. The two weren’t really fighting for Fire Lord title or anything. Azula does take the opportunity to banish Ozai for almost getting them involved in a war and says he’s only allowed to return when he finds the Avatar. It’s a bit of humor on her part that she accuses her father of almost destroying balance and his sentence is that he has to find someone who’s whole just is balance. (Azula: Soooooo….who’s up for mochi?) When they return inside, Ursa and Zuko are too shocked to speak but Hakoda asks for her to help train Katara which Azula happily agrees to. When the water family leaves, they leave with Azula with rumors now spreading about the powerful Fire Nation princess.

[hestzhyen]

Chapter 47 Yaoibachi Posting

Hokazono-sensei really slammed the gas this chapter, man. No search and rescue mini-arc here- just going back to the series' roots by having our good guys slaughter nameless mooks in suits. Excellent decision! But goodness it feels like he's trying to rush through this set-up to get to what he really wants to say this arc. I trust the emotional impact to land so I guess this really is the Kunishige lore/flashback arc since that's where the narrative focus went.

First off, I got the official arc name wrong last post. It's actually The Sword Bearer Assassination Arc. So, uh, maybe don't get too attached to any of the guys Chihiro will be trying to save. Might be difficult though if they're all as endearing as Uruha.

This Fucking Manga, Man

I just can't even this chapter. I CAN'T. I'm sitting here drafting this on Thursday and I'm in awe of the spreads. Cover and color pages? Stunning. Fanservice? Immaculate.

Yes, we got onsen fanservice after all!

Now accepting bets on who Uruha will be shipped with more: his personal guard guy or Kunishige.

Of course it pulls double duty to give us insight into Uruha and, by proxy, Kunishige. I was right on the money about Uruha being a free-spirited dude with a unique perspective last week... but I didn't imagine he'd basically be a wholesome AF version of Sojo. The Kunishige worship from this guy is off the fucking charts (and so are the Hakuri-Chihiro parallels)!

"This blade suits you" from Kunishige is a callback to Hakuri's words to Chihiro in chapter 20. I love it when authors do this shit. Can we infer that Chihiro felt the same level of awe for Hakuri? Probably not, but he did need to hear that affirmation quite badly, so it's still significant.

You don't get to comment on other guys being weirdly obsessive over a Rokuhira on sight like that, Hakuri.

THESE DUMBASS GOOBERS. Poor Chihiro's still collecting weirdos while Hakuri has no self-awareness at all. I'm in tears this is just too good. Hakuri, I love you. You're perfect.

I don't wanna get hyped after just one chapter for something that probably won't be happening. I get just about everything wrong week after week anyway! But I wouldn't mind Chihiro and Hakuri's relationship being compared to and developed through Uruha and Kunishige, just sayin'... Please... Hokazono-sensei went through the trouble of making sure we know that Uruha is obviously meant to parallel Hakuri, so that won't go to waste right?!

TFW the light of your life dies and leaves you behind.

'Cause this feels like a set up... I don't know, man. It's impossible to guess how the story's going to go but I get the sense that Uruha is going to have a lot to teach both of these guys- Hakuri in particular.

Neither Hakuri nor Uruha put a lot of value on their own lives until a Rokuhira showed up to praise them. And they're both freakishly devoted to the image of their savior to the point that they're willing to fight and possibly die for them. So we could be exploring that aspect of Hakuri's mindset as a subplot while the larger machinations swirl around them, since it's a pretty potent character flaw and all. I need Sazanami "defend to the death" Hakuri being convinced to give a shit about himself so, so badly.

Goddamnit, please stop hurting yourself.

Hakuri's also unable to use Isou due to burnout, as expected. Still wondering if the Kamunabi knows he can use two sorcery techniques but I won't hold my breath on getting answers for that. It's not necessary for this to be addressed unless it would cause some kind of friction, after all. And for as much as I would like to see the council's reaction to Hakuri and his circumstances, I don't think it'll be relevant. We'll just have to assume they either don't know his last name or are completely fine with a Sazanami being included in the plans. I wanna be wrong though. I really do.

Contract, Powerscaling, and Naming Conventions

We learned some interesting things this chapter. One, the theory of the Lifelong Contract erasing a Bearer's innate sorcery is confirmed. So if we are ever going to learn what Chihiro's sorcery is, Enten will have to be an exception to the other six swords, or he has two sorceries and the contract only nullifies one. I'm not sold on the second one since Hakuri only overworked the storehouse but is limited using both of his, implying there's a common pool of spirit energy they draw from. Looking forward to more details on how this works!

It also seems that the Bearers weren't tucked away in "safe" locations until Kunishige's death three years ago. So they probably got to live their lives as they wished until the Hishaku ruined things... which would explain how Sushi guy ended up at a restaurant. I feel like each location could have special meaning to each Bearer so hopefully we see more about how and why they ended up where they did.

Hiyuki also wasn't lying about the Kamunabi's forces being spread thin. Just 14 talented sorcerers to defend each Bearer, and even then Uruha would have felt more reassured if Azami or Hiyuki was there.

Nice going, Azami! So we know you're hella strong since Hiyuki's the best fighter in the Kamunabi- the only one in the force who can contend with Kunishige's WMDs (ch. 18). I think a Bearer would know how strong an enchanted blade is, so we can assume that Uruha's assessment of Azami's strength is accurate. Azami can't be sent out on the ground like the rank and file as a higher up now, but I'm highly anticipating him demonstrating that fearsome sorcery of his.

We also got another name! Kuregumo's original bearer was named Misaka (巳坂). This is most probably a family name like Uruha (more on him in a bit). 巳 (mi) means "snake" for wisdom and intelligence and 坂 (saka) means "slope/hill" or "embankment" for steady progress, a peaceful life, security, and/or strength and resilience. We'll definitely learn more about them- it's just a matter of when. The upside of Hokazono-sensei being stingy with names is that we all know to sit up and pay attention when one gets dropped.

We also got Uruha's given name this chapter (Youji [洋児]) and the name of his blade (Kumeyuri [酌揺]). Strange names for a strange fellow, but that's expected of someone whose family name implies a free-spirited nature with a unique outlook I guess. 洋 (you) is a kanji that specifically describes the ocean in an expansive, almost foreign sense. Not just the sea in general, but vast waters extending far away from one's current location. It has a ton of possible interpretations, naturally: courage, ambition, adaptability, limitless possibilities, harmony, inclusiveness... on and on. 児 (ji) means "child" in a straightforward way and carries connotations of joy, hope, and potential. So Uruha Youji [lacquer feather ocean child] is quite the character in his name alone.

Kumeyuri's name doesn't really give us any insights into it's potential abilities or theme, unless Kunishige was drunk (or wanted to be) when he made it. 酌 (kume) is the kanji used for pouring sake and implies generosity, abundance, and celebrating joy. 揺 (yuri) means to shake, sway, or jostle and connotes a sense of energy, playfulness, enthusiasm, and fun. I'm getting a lot of entertainment value trying to imagine how a sword named after a shaky pour of sake works, let me tell you. Somehow it seems very apt for Uruha already though.

Dead Dad Trivia

So Kunishige himself requested to hold on to the blades- it's very certain now that whatever happened during the war changed him into the man we met in chapter 1. Seitei war flashbacks please, I'm dying over here! But keep up the layering and scattering of little details! Don't feed me too fast! Make me wait and get all impatient every week! Torture me-

Curious that many people who seem to have known Kunishige doubted his potential as a father. Whether they see him as a savior or a selfish prick, most of them scoff a the idea of him having a kid. Maybe Kunishige was just a guy with layers like his son, so only those who actually knew him well would believe he could be a decent dad. We saw him goofing off with Shiba and Azami when they were Chihiro's age in chapter 12 so it's not like he was a stoic since birth (he said himself that Chihiro inherited that trait from his mom). We're going to slowly piece together the real Kunishige this arc and I can't wait!

Also a bit odd that few people see the resemblance between Chihiro and Kunishige until Chihiro's passion shines through or they get a good look at how he carries himself. Won't hang my hat on the blood test showing that Kunishige wasn't his bio dad after all, but the groundwork is there if it does. Regardless of what happens, though, it's pretty obvious that Chihiro is Kunishige's son thanks to the ideals he took to heart.

Hishaku Theory

RIP bandanna guy you were too cool to live.

Yeah, "enemies of the state" isn't a term you use for a regular criminal gang, no matter how threatening they are. I'm more convinced than ever that the Hishaku are primarily a political threat to all of Japan (though still very willing to admit that I might be reading too far into things).

Kyora's conversation with an unknown Hishaku member in chapter 22 referred to "dissidents". That's also a very pointed descriptor for people with differing political ideologies, especially ones agitating against the "legitimate" ruling group.

Could Soya come back to finish what his dad started? Meh.

This implies that Kyora and the Sazanami clan were aligned with the Hishaku's goals beyond merely business. The Hishaku probably have sympathizers in and outside of mainstream society, and likely within the Kamunabi itself as well. And then there's the kiku flower -which has strong ties to Imperial imagery- in the vase that's shown up twice now, arraigned alongside other flowers symbolizing deep desire and patience.

So I think the Hishaku lost the war and have been plotting their comeback for a long time now. How does this tie into Chihiro's personal journey beyond the revenge mission? We'll have to see. John Hishaku's goals and methods are shrouded in secrecy right now, so I look forward to learning about why he needed to foster Chihiro's hatred to enact his plans. Cool job making the core plot hook so compelling, author-san!

HakuHiro Brainrot

I have to, I'm sorry. This chapter was a godsend.

Give me an inch and I'll run a thousand miles with these two.

Chihiro acknowledging that Hakuri is special! Feels like a very deliberate reference to the language used in Chapter 33, especially by Tenri. Makes sense since Tenri was a parallel of Chihiro's devotion to his father and his legacy.

"Hakuri- my older brother by a year- is different." would have flowed a little better, but it's a clunky sentence no matter what...

The reference was probably made in order to imply that Chihiro sees Hakuri as a brother (or family in general) via the Tenri connection. However, that won't stop me from shipping them romantically because I'm illiterate as fuck.

ANYWAY.

FOOD IMAGERY WITH HAKURI FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE ICE LADY!!

Hakuri's sharing snacks with Chihiro on the train- he feels so safe with his samurai! And this is the first time we've seen Chihiro accept food since he reluctantly (metaphorically) shared dango with Sojo in chapter 17! He's rejected Shiba's offers, provided one-sidedly for Char, resigned himself to connecting to Sojo to understand him, skipped getting ice cream, and missed the gaming session, but he accepted Hakuri's small gesture...! I'M GOING FERAL

Hakuri is canonically the only character Chihiro's accepted emotional comfort and support from since his dad died. On screen so far, at least.

Hakuri, who was deeply traumatized when he last tried to connect with someone, feels secure enough to do it with Chihiro...

Chihiro, who is only at ease with providing comfort, accepts it for the first time from Hakuri...

The first time we see them exchanging the comfort/security visual metaphor is while they're on their own...

And it's just so casual for them to do this...!

I sounded confident when I called Hakuri the heroine of Kagurabachi in that long-ass post I made a few months ago, but... I was actually right?! Hakuri is Chihiro's first and only emotional safe haven. He's got plot-related utility and can hold his own in a fight, but he's not going to be outshining the likes of Chihiro or Hiyuki any time soon. His faith in Chihiro has been his most valuable contribution to the story- even moreso than awakening to his storehouse ability. The only thing that's missing at this point is the chance of HakuHiro being canon! Seriously!

Alright void... thanks for letting me yap again. Definitely not going to go back to writing fan fiction for the first time in 10+ years because this stupid edgy sword manga broke me. Nope, never, not me...

[autisticempathydaemon]

in this kitchen, baking (what a mess I’m making)

A Great British Bake Off AU

Pairings: all the good ones- Angel/David, Milo/Sweetheart, Asher/Bäbe, Lasko/Huxley/Damien, Gavin/Freelancer, Darlin/Sam, Lovely/Vincent, Alexis/Christian, Mentions of Porter/Treasure

cw: none no magic no angst just the love of the game and food

Available on AO3 here!

[Overhead, panning shots of a quaint California town. There’s lines of charming suburban houses with well-kept lawns, a bustling downtown full to bursting with small locally-owned businesses… a classic, picturesque college town.

The camera speeds away, outside the city, towards the woods, until we close in on a beautiful, shimmering Lake Arrowhead and the campgrounds surrounding it. Beside the lake, in a verdant clearing, we zoom in on a large, white tent and the two presenters standing at its opening.]

Angel: So we’ve got thirteen bakers-

Babe: -three challenges

Angel: -two days of stunning desserts

Babe: -and one future winner hiding in our midst! Is there a certain kind of dessert you’re hoping to see and try this weekend?

Angel: I’m so glad you asked, because have you seen the cake on our judge, David Shaw-

Asher (Off-camera): Babe, they’re off-script!

Babe: Oh lord- Welcome to the Great Dahlia Bake Off!

[The camera zooms out, away from the hosts, and cuts to establishing shots of the field surrounding the tent. Charming, quaint clips of woodpeckers, dragonflies, hummingbirds, and an inexplicable lamb are layered with jaunty string music and are followed by an inside view of the tent and the procession of bakers as they file in and absorb their surroundings.

A no-nonsense woman with black hair tied into a severe ponytail and eyes straight ahead walks with confidence to her station. A tall, wide-shouldered man saunters in with an even wider smile, offering a warm handshake to both his neighbors. The skittish man behind him reciprocates it gingerly before fiddling with the ties of his apron.

The contestants settle in at their respective, colorful kitchen islands and face the front of the tent with varying degrees of apprehension. Angel and Babe stand before them with visible excitement and bright smiles. Beside the hosts, David and William stand tall and intimidating, despite the latter’s friendly smile and small wave.]

Angel: Welcome to the tent, bakers! I had a whole spiel about first seasons and new adventures and bright beginnings- but then I remembered that the longer I talk, the longer it’ll be until I get to try your food, so let’s get this party started. Take it away, Babe; what are our new best friends making for us this morning?

Babe: Today, for the first challenge of Cake Week, our esteemed judges would like you to make a signature crepe cake! The cake must consist of alternating layers of French crepes and some sort of filling, though the flavor of crepe and filling are up to your creative minds. Judges, do you have any advice for our lovely bakers?

David: Crepes are beautiful in their simplicity but also difficult. They must be perfect.

William: We’d love to see a good combination of technique and personality today. There’s so much room for different flavors, textures, and combinations with your dessert today, so we can’t wait to see what you make for us.

[William, a kind-faced man with neatly braided, long, black hair, offers the contestants a warm smile, a stunning contrast to the stony, stoic stare from David beside him.]

David: You’ve got two hours; get started.

[Angel slaps David on the shoulder before wagging a finger in his direction. The man’s eyes widen comically which the hose dismisses with a wave of their hand.]

Angel: You don’t tell them to start; we do! Babe?

Babe: Get ready~

Angel: Get set~

Babe: Bake!

[The hosts clap in unison, and the contestants start in a flurry like horses at a gunshot. A tall, freckled blond man puts a moka pot on the stove, starting a pot of coffee. A young contestant with striking Lichtenberg scars up their neck starts sifting a sandy gray flour, drawing glances from the opponents around them. Another young contestant in a DAMN sweatshirt starts dicing what looks to be a small mountain of strawberries.]

Angel: Can I steal one of these? They’re gorgeous!

Freelancer: Um, sure, please.

Asher (off-screen): Grab one for me too, Angel!

Angel: Get it yourself!

Asher (off-screen): You know I can’t! Have mercy!

Babe: I’ve got you- open up.

[Babe takes a strawberry and holds it up to the person holding the camera. Chewing can be heard off-screen, and Babe stares lovingly at their boyfriend while Freelancer watches in confusion, their hands still and awkward. David rolls his eyes at the nauseating scene before turning to the contestant.]

David: Ignore them. Tell us what you’re making today.

Freelancer: I’m making a strawberries and cream crepe cake today with strawberries picked from my garden.

David: Simple.

William: Quaint! All these strawberries will be cut and mixed into the filling?

Freelancer: Not really- it’ll be made into a puree which will be incorporated in the crepe batter plus a jam that’ll be layered with a vanilla diplomat filling. There will also be whole strawberries on top for texture.

William: A veritable strawberry cornucopia and homegrown to boot. I’m sure it will be delicious.

Freelancer: God, I hope so.

Angel (narrating): Freelancer is a nursing student at Dahlia Academy of Medical Nursing. Between their pharmacology classes and organic chemistry labs, they like to unwind by hanging out with their brother who often volunteers as a live-in taste tester.

[B-roll footage of a comfy, sunlit townhouse kitchen. Freelancer is standing at the counter kneading dough and chatting with a young, pink haired man as he sits at the dining table and does homework. The window lets in bright sunlight, illuminating the flour dusting their hair and the air, and reveals a vibrant, ruby-studded garden right outside.]

[In the tent, Freelancer continues to cut more strawberries while some come to a low boil on the stove.]

Freelancer: They’ve been his safe food since… since he was old enough to eat food, probably. Milk, pudding, popsicles, anything strawberry he’d eat. We could get him to eat anything if we put chopped up strawberries or strawberry dressing on it.

[The contestant laughs joyfully, fondly- a hilarious contrast to the dripping, red knife in their grasp.]

I’m a strawberry expert at this point so obviously that’s what I’ve got to make today. Gotta lead with my strengths, you know?

Babe (narrating): Freelancer’s not the only one bringing fruit to the tent today.

[The tall, smiley man from earlier pits cherries and tosses them into a bowl of kirsch. A quiet, focused contestant with hair tied back into a loose bun cuts mangoes, peeling them with a glass cup. A cool, collected contestant with glasses perched precariously atop their nose peels and juices lemons with efficiency.]

William: Enlighten us as to what you’re making for us this morning, Sweetheart.

Sweetheart: I’ll be making lemon crème crepe cake today; I’m working on the lemon curd now that’ll be one of my two fillings.

David: Two?

Sweetheart: Lemon curd and a vanilla diplomat.

David: So you’ll be making three components for us today: a curd, a custard, and a whipped cream in addition to your crepes? Do you think you can keep all those plates in the air?

Sweetheart: What- like it’s hard?

[A snort, poorly stifled, can be heard from behind camera B. Sweetheart looks in its direction and winks with a smirk, causing a laugh from behind camera A. Even David looks amused, half-smiling and tapping a knuckle against the wood of the tabletop as they move on.]

William: And what have we got going on here with all this color, Porter? What are you making for us today?

[Atop the workstation is a Warholian disarray of green powder and white splatter. The mess has made it onto the baker, verdant smears stark on the brown skin of his neck and a light grassy dusting in his black hair. Despite this, Porter greets the camera with a rakish grin and the judges with a confident handshake.]

Porter: I’m glad you asked, William. I’m making a matcha crepe cake with a vanilla whipped cream and some white chocolate ganache.

David: …interesting. Is this a flavor combination you have a lot of experience with?

Porter: No.

[Porter grins at the camera, a mischievous glint in his eyes. While he’s looking away, the matcha in his crepe batter clumps unattractively, dark green specks spattered in the bowl. David looks in disapproval at that and the messy counter before walking away.]

Vincent: Yeah, he’s sort of always like that. I’d like to say he grows on you, but I feel like I shouldn’t lie on national TV.

William; That’s right; you would know, wouldn’t you?

Babe (narrating): Vincent, when he’s not baking and having a good time, is an up and coming presence in Dahlia’s real estate game. His opponents, both in the tent and outside of it, are Porter and Alexis, his family who work for the same estate agency.

[B-roll footage of Vincent standing in the doorway of a lovely, three-story modern Spanish home, his casual pose of him leaning against the door matching the sign of him posted in the front yard. Porter and Alexis come through the same door, shouldering him out the way with matching sneers and affectionate disdain.]

Babe: Tell us about that. Did you ever think when you applied, all three of you would end up on the show? Did a shared, familial love of baking bring the three of you together?

Vincent: Sort of���? We were watching season two and started giving each other shit about who would last longer on the show. An hour and some bottles of wine, and here we all are.

Angel: Aww, that’s… fun. Now that you’re here, are you at all nervous about going against your sister and cousin? We hope you won’t go easy on each other just because you’re family.

[Vincent raises an eyebrow before turning to look behind him. The camera pans out, and Alexis and Porter have looked up from their respective bakes, having heard their names, and are presumably giving Vincent the middle finger. Porter, whose island sits between his cousins, has put his sifter down to do it to Alexis as well. Thankfully, the way Milo has angled the camera, all offending gestures are obscured behind mixers and jars of flour.]

Vincent: I don’t think you have to worry about that.

William: What fun! And what are you making for us? Hopefully not matcha and white chocolate.

Vincent: God, no, I can’t stand matcha. I’m making chocolate crepes with coffee cream inbetween.

Porter (off-screen): Matcha’s delicious; you have the taste buds of a child.

Alexis (off-screen): and no ideas of your own. I hope your chocolate crepes burn, you cheat.

Vincent: Porter, you’re not special because you don’t like sugar; it just makes you a grouchy jackass. And Lex, patent putting cocoa in your crepe batter if you’re so pressed. You’re just mad yours are going to suck.

Angel: This is going to be a great season.

David: This is going to be… a season. I hope we won’t have to separate you three… though we could move you much in the tent.

Vincent: We’ll be separated when they lose, don’t you worry.

[Off-screen, Asher and Milo can be heard poorly hiding their laughter. David tries to silence them with a glare, fails, and moves on to Alexis’s island. Her workspace is spotless but crowded, the mixer practically crawling across the table, a dark, sugary mixture bubbling on the stove, and Alexis vigorously beating cream into stiff peaks.]

William: You certainly have a lot of plates spinning. What are you making for us today?

Angel: And, more importantly, how is it going to be better than Vincent and Porter’s?

David: Don’t encourage them, Angel.

Asher (off-screen): No, I want to know too.

David: You’re both children.

Alexis: My chocolate crepe cake will be filled with a caramel diplomat and topped with a caramel creme anglaise.

William: You’re hoping to outshine them with techniques.

Alexis: No, I know I will.

Angel: Damn.

[David pushes Angel out of frame before moving on. William lingers for a second, smiling at Alexis, before pointing at her stovetop.]

William: Mind your caramel, dear. The color can turn quick.

[William walks away, and Alexis scowls down at her mixing bowl, waiting a moment before adjusting the heat of the burner. Focus on William behind her, watching in approval. Cut to Christian and his station, the blonde surfer casually stirring his custard while looking about the room.]

David: You look relaxed.

William: That iconic California, Australian, laidback attitude- what a combination! What are you presenting today that’s got you so confident?

Christian: Something classic, a vanilla crepe cake with a diplomat cream and strawberries.

David: Classic and simple. Why did you choose to not make something more unique or signature to you?

Christian: It’s important to know when to be flashy and when to rely on the basics. There’s a time and place for risks.

Babe (narrating): Christian, a professional surfer and influencer, would certainly know. Having lost part of his leg two years ago in a shark attack, Christian chronicled online his recovery journey of relearning the surfing basics, and more then a hundred thousand people have seen the video of him winning a competition just eight months after his accident.

[Footage of Christian surfing from the shore, moving too fast for the camera to catch anything but his golden hair in the breeze and the sun reflecting off the aluminum of his prosthetic.]

David: Let’s hope your risk or lack there of pays off.

Angel: We’ll find out soon. Bakers! You’ve got forty-five minutes left, you’ve got less than half of your time left to go!

[The camera pans out, and the whole tent is in frame, the thirteen bakers a chaotic tableau of flour and eggs. The handsome man in front of Freelancer is leaning on their countertop while his mixer goes, chatting and bending provocatively so the other baker can see down his apron and tank top. Freelancer looks pointedly behind him at the basket of strawberries on his station, and the man laughs abashedly, presumably caught.

The nervous, fidgeting man from earlier yelps, having gotten key lime juice in his eye. This would be the second of his injuries this morning if the blue cover on his finger is any indication. The two bakers stationed in front of him spun to check on him, the frontmost one yelling and pointing in his direction with the other blots at his eyes with a clean tea towel.]

Huxley: Are you alright, Lasko?

Lasko: Ye- yeah, I’m okay. Don’t worry, stuff like this happens all the time.

Damien: That somehow does not surprise me.

[Across the aisle, the quiet contestant with the mangos barks out a laugh, covering their mouth with a start. The freckled man stationed in front of them turns at the sound, catching their eye, and the two share a conspiratorial smile. Cut to Angel and Babe hovering on either side of Lasko.]

Angel: Are you alright?

Babe: Is Damien giving you a tough time? I’ll rough him up for you.

Lasko: N-no, he’s got a point. I can be really clumsy in the kitchen… or everywhere, if I’m being honest. And then he showed me a better way to handle my limes, so I wouldn’t hurt myself again!

Angel: Oh? And is there anything else he and this tall drink of water over here helped you handle?

[Angel waggles their eyebrows suggestively at Lasko and then the camera, making Babe reach across the contestant to slap the other host’s arm. Asher can be heard laughing behind the camera which is minutely shaking despite the steadying mechanisms. Lasko, after looking between the three show staff, catches on and flushes, a lime practically jumping out of his hands in nervousness. Milo’s camera catches Huxley quietly laughing at the indiscreet conversation, wide shoulders shaking in mirth until he has to stop whipping cream.]

Huxley: You guys are a riot.

Damien: I’ll riot if you distract Lasko. Forget about being sent home; he’ll end up in the hospital if he’s not careful.

Angel: So cute, so protective~

[Damien glares at the host, looking around his workspace presumably for something light to throw at them as they strut off with a laugh to another station.]

Babe: So why’s your flour different than everyone else’s and not white?

Angel: Oh my god, Babe, you can’t just ask people why their things aren’t white.

[Angel and Babe grin at the camera. Nearby, Vincent and Sam laugh, getting the reference. Even Alexis cracks a smile, but Lovely stares blankly at the hosts, giving the camera a confused look and waiting to be let in on the joke.]

Angel: Hell, I think we’re old. Are we old? How old are you, Lovely? What do you do?

Lovely: I’m twenty-two…? And I’m a college student at Dahlia Academy.

Angel: Shit, we’re old.

Babe: Freelancer goes there too!

[Babe points off screen, and the camera pans over to Freelancer whose head pops up at the mention of their name. Lovely gives them a friendly wave and smile from across the tent, and the nursing student tentatively waves back with the hand holding the knife, earning them a quick but loud admonishment from David at the front. They bashfully put it down, their island neighbor patting their shoulder consolingly and Damien tsking loudly.]

Babe: What are you studying there? Culinary sciences maybe?

Lovely: Aha, no, this is just a hobby. I’m pursuing a degree in electrical engineering. I come from a long line of electricians.

Vincent: Is that so? I wouldn’t complain about routine inspections ever again if the electrician that came to my door was as young and pretty as you.

[Behind them, the camera focuses on the other Solaires who share a look before Alexis coughs into her hand a muffled but unmistakable “creep”.]

Vincent: Ignore my sister; she forgets her manners and that I know as much about her as she does me. When we get out of here, I’d love to get yours or your family’s business card.

Lovely: You mean you want my number.

Vincent: Sorry, was that not clear? Let me reiterate; I’d love to show you a good time with the prize money from here.

[The camera pans slightly to the side, and Angel and Babe are riveted in rapt attention, clutching each other’s hands in nosy glee. Behind them, Alexis and Porter are pantomiming gagging.]

Lovely: You mean the prize money that doesn’t exist, the only prize being a cake stand and a bouquet of flowers? What a date.

[Vincent flushes in response to Lovely’s grin and laugh which leads to him overpouring his batter in the pan and making a chocolatey mess of himself. Behind his back, even as he scrambles to save his crepe, Lovely smiles at him in pointed interest. Angel mimes the two sitting and kissing in a tree, and the college student shoots the host a wink.]

Angel: God, I love our job. What about you, Sammy? Can I call you Sammy? Who might you be looking to sweet-talk and canoodle in the tent today?

[In the back of the tent, Alexis actually coughs this time, drowned out by Vincent and Porter’s snide laughter. Sam grimaces as he folds whipped cream into his custard, his ears reddening at the tips. Camera B catches Babe pinching Angel’s thigh, the other host yowling in pain and staring at them in indignation, before they point at a jar of brown syrup on his workstation.]

Babe: That looks alarmingly like Chemical X. Is your crepe cake gonna turn me into a powerpuff girl? Because I call dibs on Blossom.

Sam: I mean, that’s a syrup I made outta cold brew concentrate, so you’re not far off. Chug that, and somethin’s bound to happen.

Babe: Don’t you tempt me, cowboy; we’ve got a long weekend ahead of us, and I could use the caffeine.

Asher (off-screen): Can I be Bubbles? I’d make a cute Bubbles.

Babe: Cute as you may be, Angel’s definitely Bubbles. If you get my good side, you can be the Brick to my Blossom though.

Asher: That’s easy when they’re all your good side, eyyy~

David: In case you’ve forgotten, you’re here to do jobs. Focus, Angel.

Angel: Boo, Boomer. Ten minutes, bakers! Ten minutes before you gotta present before Mister Party Pooper here… and William.

William: I don’t get a fun nickname, Angel?

Angel: No, see, you are your first name, and we put respect on it like Beyoncé, like Shaq.

William: Hmm… I like that, thank you.

Angel: Anytime, Willy.

William: I like that a lot less.

Angel: Fair, heard.

William: While we’ve got you, William, let’s talk about who you’re liking today… baking-wise.

Angel: Or romantically- I’d love to talk about that too.

Babe: You’re going to get us fired.

Angel: I’ll sleep my way back to the top if I must.

[David stomps out the tent with his arms thrown above his head and a loud groan. Some of the bakers jump st the disruption, but Babe gives them a smile and a placating wave.]

Babe: Big man’s throwing a hissy fit; believe me, you want him to get it all out before he judges your food.

William: Damien and Huxley who’ve kept their cool throughout the first challenge are impressing me.

[Pan over, and Huxley is humming as he pipes swirls of whipped cream atop his dark, chocolate crepe cake. In contrast, Damien has a deep, stormy scowl on his face as he daintily dusts his crepe cake with a spice and powdered sugar blend.]

Babe: Is that what you’d call “keeping his cool”?

William: Yes, see, his body is restless, but his hands are steady. That’s a good trait to have in a baker.

Babe: Fair, and who are we not liking today?

David: I’m concerned about Christian.

Angel: Did you get it all out, bubs?

David: I’m ignoring you. Anyway, he’s doing something so simple, with flavor combinations two other people are doing, that I’m afraid he won’t be able to measure up. The first challenge of the first week, that could set a bad precedent.

William: There is such a thing as too much confidence. He’ll need to step outside his comfort zone in flavor and technique if he wants to go far.

David: I’m also concerned about Lasko.

William: In more ways than one, I agree. His demeanor does make me wonder how well he’ll withstand the time constraints and challenges of the tent should he move on after this week.

Babe: Well, let’s find out, shall we?

Angel: Bakers, your first challenge in the tent is almost over! When I reach One, I wanna see all those sexy, flour-y hands in the air, off your work! Five! Four! Three!

[Lasko mutters furiously under his breath, shaky hands frantically trying to pipe whipped cream onto his dessert. Huxley is cleaning his station, his crepe cake ready and perched beautifully at the end of his countertop. Damien is also done and wiping down his counters but less happily, alternately glaring at his cheery competitor and his own neatly decorated bake.

Christian, in contrast, lounges, sipping lazily from a bottle that’s been unbranded for TV but is obviously the sports drink he’s sponsored by. Freelancer and Gavin have finished and are chatting conspiratorially, sharing their leftover strawberries as they goose-neck about the tent.]

Angel: Two!

[Alexis stands with her chin held high, shoulders back, eyes steely and determinedly focused at the judges. Porter sits on his counter, a health and safety violation where this a professional kitchen, waving a hand in front of his cousin’s phase, trying to break her out of her concentration. Lovely is frowning, rearranging the raspberries on top of their crepe cake for the fifth time, while Vincent flanks with a grin, holding the fruit in his hands for them to pick and place.

Darlin stands at their station, eyes downcast and hands tightly clutching a steaming cup as they await the end of the countdown. Sam, leaning his back against the island behind him, has an identical cup. Sweetheart, in the back of the tent, the thirteenth of the baker’s dozen, looks about the tent with a curious gaze and smile.

Angel: One! Put your hands up and desserts down; prepare yourselves for the judgment of the lord!

[crowandmousewritingco]

The Aurelac Gallery Pt1

Pairing: Ezra x gn!reader

Words: 1.2k

Rating: G (will turn M in later chapters)

Summary: After suffering from artist's block, you travel to Secret Springs for inspiration. And maybe something more.

Author: Mod Mouse

Notes: I wrote this for the Secret Springs project led by @secretelephanttattoo . If you are curious about any other of the fabulously creative people also participating, see their blog for masterlists. Also this is my first time writing for Ezra. I hope I portrayed him well. Thank you to @morallyinept for the wonderful writing aides. Truly doing Kevva's work out here.

Part 2

To say you were in an artist stump was an understatement. It had been months since you sold a piece and your art dealer wasn’t very thrilled at your performance. You tried to explain that nothing inspired you anymore, and in an exasperated voice your art dealer said, “Well go on vacation or something. Find inspiration somewhere else.” 

And that’s just what you did. Here you were spending time in a beautiful resort town bustling with visitors and locals alike. It was an idyllic scenery with the ocean on one side and beautiful skiing on the other. Everything was at your fingertips to inspire the next stage of your art career. Which was almost too overwhelming for you. You could paint everything, but where should you start? 

You sighed as you leaned against the wall of a local coffee shop called Catfish Coffee. You had confessed to the barista there that nothing was giving you inspiration. He kindly suggested a gallery down the road called Aurelac that could help you jump start your creativity. 

So there you were finishing your coffee thinking about art. You took your final sips, tossing the paper cup in the closest trash can. You looked around to get your bearings and followed the street just like the barista said. The road curved around the stunning architecture. Everything felt different but yet it flowed so easily into the next building. Eventually you entered a more modern section of town. A simple neon sign hung outside reading Aurelac. 

Well that was easy. You thought to yourself before approaching the glass doors. The cool air chilled your skin as you entered the gallery. It was bigger than you were expecting, each wall filled with tons of different mediums. Your eye was drawn to the brightly colored oil paintings on the far right wall. Approaching the fall wall, your eyes took in each piece with awe and analyzed each stroke. 

While you went in to lean closer to a particularly fascinating painting, when a smooth Southern voice. “Such an alluring abstraction.” You jumped back not hearing him approach despite the hardwood floods

He chuckled. “I apologize. I didn’t mean to frighten such an intriguing patron.” 

“No harm done. I just wanted to see what techniques this artist used. Reminds me of Dorthea Tanning’s work.” You said taking in the stranger’s appearance. The man was taller than you expected, and quite well dressed too. It seems he had money from the immaculate three piece dark plum suit he was wearing. Included in his ensemble were a pair of cufflinks with a lavender gem of sorts in a silver clasp. 

The strangers’ eyebrows raised in amusement. “Not everyone knows that Surrealist’s name. How might you have come upon such an artist?” He asked curiously. 

“Oh I actually minored in art history in college. She was always one of my favorites to talk about.” You answered blushing a bit. 

“And she is criminally underrated in the world of the Surrealists.” He agreed standing closer to you to take a look at the piece that sparked such conversation. 

“I always love Surrealism. There is something about the way they represented such human ideas was amazing.” You smiled as the passion for art returned to your mind. 

“The subconscious aspect was a compelling part of that particular movement.” The man added though now this stranger had drawn his attention to you more than the art. 

“I agree. As much as I hate to admit it, if it wasn’t for Freud then we would have this moment.” 

“Exactly.” He grinned. “Oh goodness, where are my manners? I have failed to introduce myself to such an intellectual.” He held out his hand to you. “Ezra.” 

You held out your hand and introduced yourself by taking his hand in yours. The first thing you noticed about Ezra’s hand was the roughness of them. From his outwardly appearance you were expecting his hands to be soft. The next thing you noticed was the tightness of his grip. It was firm, but didn’t hurt like some other handshakes you’ve received. This man was truly fascinating. 

“I believe you aren’t a local around here?” Ezra asked.

You chuckled and shook your head. “No, far from it. I’m actually here on vacation. Well vacation in the loosest sense.” 

“Oh and pray tell what does that mean?” He questioned tipping his head to the side. 

“Just that I’m an artist, I guess not much nowadays. I haven’t created anything in months, and my agent jokingly told me to go on vacation. So here I am.” You chuckled, it sounding a little sad. You really hadn’t meant to stop creating, but unfortunately that’s how it goes sometimes.

“Well I can tell you that my little corner of paradise has lots to offer, not to mention idyllic scenery for all types.” 

“True but I’ve never been one for landscapes,” You admit. 

“Considering your admiration for the Surrealists, that doesn’t surprise me.” Ezra smirked, taking in the painting once again. 

You hummed in response letting the conversation fall into a comfortable silence. Though Ezra started fidgeting at the need for dialog. And it seemed you were having the same issue because the two of you together said. 

“Can I paint you?” “I could be your model!” 

Both of you paused for a moment, your mind catching up to what just happened. 

“What did you say?” You asked looking back at Ezra. 

He cleared his throat and rubbed the back of his neck with his hand. “Well I said that I am more than willing to stand in for your artwork. With a brain as astute as yours I would be more than honored to be your muse” You weren’t quite sure but there might have been a brush of pink against his cheeks. 

You couldn’t help but giggle. You covered your mouth with your hand as your giggle turned into a full on laugh. 

Ezra looked at you confused. “I apologize. Did I say something amusing?” 

It took you a moment to recover from your laughing fit, but after a few deep breaths you giggled. “Quite the opposite because I asked you if I could paint you.”

He sighed in relief and chuckled along with you. “Then that seemed to settle the matter.’ 

“That was easier than I was expecting,” You chuckled.

“How about you come over to my abode and I can cook us a wonderful meal to get those endorphins moving,” Ezra suggested. 

You quirked your eyebrow up. “That makes it sound like a date, Ezra.” 

“See it as a way for me to give back to such an amazing creature.” He smirked and you blushed in return. 

“How can I refuse such an offer?” You smiled up at him. 

“Perfect I’ll arrange everything and I’ll have my driver pick you up around say 7:30” He states. 

You blush again “Oh that’ll be perfect. I’m staying at the nice B&B just down the road.” 

“Then that’s where you shall be whisked away from there then.” 

You exchanged numbers. You really weren’t sure what you’ve gotten yourself into but you knew something exciting would come out of this. 

[durtblog]

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[yamcha-thelonewolf]

💥THE GANG IS BACK!

[COLORED VERSION] 🎨

At least... Apparently DBS gave him his chance.

DRAGON BALL SUPER

Chapter 56: Warriors of Earth Assemble

Even the title is stunning. I mean... the gang is back! The original Dragon Ball isn't dead. But now look at him... In truth, he never stopped getting excited about fighting. Here he's the only one who seems purely motivated. A little reckless, but still cute. That's our good ol' Yamcha.

...how dare you, fools?! I mean, he's one of the very first Earth Heroes! No kidding!

Let him prove it.

Agent Yamcha? Well... It sounds really good. Finally someone who respects his role in this story! I mean... He was Lord Yamcha, the fearsome bandit of the Diablo Desert, one of the best students of Master Roshi, then King Kai, a memorable fighter of the Tenkaichi Tournaments, a loyal friend, a human who has crossed his own nature! I guess "agent Yamcha" is just the minimum... But we make do!

Well well well... Welcome back, Yamcha! You really seem to have remembered who you really are and you can be! You're let it get you down too many times for no reason and this has been your greatest weakness. The only one.

Take your revenge!

This is really touching. He never denied his most famous technique... The one and only Rōgafūfūken! Just look at his fingers put like a wolf fang. I can hear his unmistakable howl!

After all, generally he never denied himself. And his long hair too. I'm so glad they've come back. This is a really important point about his personality. Bulma tried to fix him in many things... Sometimes she has helped him, but other times she has only damaged him. I think Yamcha is slowly retracing his steps to create a better version of himself. Not just a parody.

Oh please... It had been a long time since I had seen him so proud of himself. Look at that cocky pose! Damn, how cute...

Got a real taste. He just realized he can still help and now no one can stop him. Well, sort of. The rest of the chapter doesn't show anything relevant about him. Except for a small part.

We can see Yamcha, but also Tenshinhan, Kurillin and even Chiaotzu, helping Goku with their energy. Like the old days. It's amazing they included them.

Okay, this one hurts a little. It's comforting that Toriyama didn't forget this detail... Yamcha's only wish has always been to get married. Since 1985, when he first appeared. Considering that this line dates back to 2020... It's been a long time, hasn't it? Back then he was a shy 16-year-old boy with many expextations for his future... Now he's a man, he lost so much, but his need for love never changed. So... Does he really have to ask Shenron as he wanted to do so many years ago?! Or worse, wait 1200 years...

Come on, Akira! He doesn't need the dragon balls!

Give him his real chance.

Guys... I would say that all of this is an incredible goal for Yamcha's fans.

He still exists.

He can still make a difference, even a tiny one.

He still can!

GOOD JOB, Yamcha-san! ✌️

[maya1525]

SUCK ~ & ~ F*CK 😋🍾

✩ Featuring Gojo Satoru ✩

18+MDNI

Pairing✩࿐Fem!Reader X Gojo Satoru

WARNINGS✩࿐Fem!Reader giving oral, unprotected vaginal sex, rough sex, cream pie, sex in front of others, language, cursed technique usage during sex

Word count✩࿐1.8k

Summary✩࿐This is based on my original post: SUCK ~ GUESS ~ F*CK. But you know ahead of time whose dick is in your slutty mouth. Gojo drew the Jack of Diamonds♦️

A/N✩࿐I had fun incorporating Satoru’s zero gravity technique in Kissing Practice and that inspired me to do it again! He obviously had to show you off in the air. Writing his dirty talk made me get all flustered 😩 Feedback is highly appreciated, I love reading your comments! 😙💖

“The game is quite simple.” Gojo stated in a matter-of-fact tone, “You’re going to be blindfolded and will have to guess which man's dick is in your mouth. If you guess incorrectly, the man gets to choose which position to fuck you in. If you guess correctly, then you get to choose the position. To keep things interesting, you’ll suck dick for three minutes and get fucked for seven.”

You nodded your understanding as you sat on the large and cushy futon in Gojo’s apartment. He had planned on fucking you alone tonight, but your boyfriends wanted in on the action, plus they thought it would be a good idea to invite two of their friends, Mechamaru and Noritoshi.

You felt your cheeks warm up with excitement, never in your life, you’ve felt so deeply desired before. Everyone’s eyes were on you, especially because you wore a revealing teddy one-piece. Satoru bought it for you, and it complimented your figure perfectly. He even put a stunning custom collar on you, with a diamond-covered ‘S’ on it.

You couldn’t help but feel a little embarrassed to be this exposed in front of Noritoshi and Mechamaru. You were familiar with both of these men, but you were still getting used to human Mechamaru. Muta was on the leaner side compared to your boyfriends, he had sharp features and a large and noticeable scar on his upper cheek. While Kamo on the other hand always seemed like a strong and serious leader among his comrades. The thought that he yearned for you just as much as your boyfriends made you wonder what he would be like when he fucked you. The thought made you anticipate his turn.

While you thought about those two men, your eyes were subconsciously drawn to both of them. Noritoshi sat on the far side of the sectional, his heated gaze stared you down hungrily. Beside him sat your boyfriend Megumi with a starved look in his midnight blue eyes. Next sat Itadori, he eyed you with such desperation, that it looked as if he was going to jump off the couch any second to get to you. Next to him sat Satoru smugly, his eyes gleamed playfully in your direction. Beside him was Muta, he eyed shyly with a faint blush on his face. To his left sat Yuuta and Inumaki, Toge was leaning into the couch comfortably, his violet-colored eyes sparkling over your stunning body with admiration and Yuuta had a similar look of awe on his face.

“Ok Y/n, I’m going to put this on you if you’re ready,” Satoru murmured, his gorgeous blue eyes gleaming down at you, while he wrapped his black blindfold around your eyes.

You were shocked at how you couldn’t even see small streams of light through it. You had always assumed that it was sheer fabric and that Gojo could slightly see through it, but you were mistaken. Satoru’s amazing Six Eyes technique is one to behold, he certainly is the strongest jujitsu sorcerer.

“OK, now that her eyes are covered, I’m going to hand each of you a playing card. Whoever draws the highest card gets to go first.” Satoru explained nonchalantly, as the sound of him shuffling the cards expertly made itself known in your ears.

After a short moment of listening to each man shift on the couch to get their card, Gojo spoke. “Now let’s reveal our cards.” You heard a few small sighs of excitement from some of the men, and you also heard some hisses of displeasure, assuming that they would have to wait a while until their turn.

Soon enough, you heard the familiar sound of someone undoing their pants right in front of your face, and quickly after you felt the warm and firm feeling of a dick asking to enter your wet mouth. You obliged and greeted him with soft and sweet licks. You trailed your tongue all over him, making sure not to miss a single part of his shaft. You nuzzled your face down to his balls and guided them into your sultry mouth one at a time. While doing this, you could hear his quiet sighs of delight.

His dick seemed to feel hotter the more you worked on him. You brought your mouth to the head of his shaft and worked your way further onto him, the head of his penis hit the back of your throat rather quickly. You curiously brought your hand up his length to see how much more of him wasn’t able to fit in your mouth. You were surprised at this man's size, you could easily jerk him off into your mouth at his impressive length. He felt all too familiar…

You pulled yourself away from him and swiftly changed your position on the futon. Now your back was against the comfortable cushions, you angled your torso up slightly so you were able to rest on your elbows. You angled your head back and opened your mouth, as ready as ever. He’ll be able to fit down your throat easier now. This man eagerly inched his dick into your mouth and down your throat, now you were able to fit him entirely down your throat. Panic bubbled up inside of you, due to the lack of air you were able to take in. But you’ve done this before, and you knew you could handle it, so you calmed yourself and alternated between sucking and breathing.

Gojo looked down at your sexy little body in approval. He could see the outline of his dick in your throat and it made the collar he gave you look even sluttier. To Satoru, your appearance was that of a magnificent goddess. Every time the two of you made eye contact, he’d hold his gaze slightly longer and secretly memorize every beautiful detail about you.

You felt his large hand caress your jaw and neck lovingly, but this was more like sweet torture due to his massive size. His fingers trailed down to the bulge of his penis in your throat, and then he fondled your tits teasingly. Earning a muffled sigh of delight to come from your throat and around his cock. Due to gravity, you could feel your drool drip from your mouth, to around your nose and onto the blindfold.

Suddenly the quiet and familiar sound of the alarm went off nearby. He reluctantly pulled himself out of your tight and pleasant throat. You could never forget a dick this size, you knew who exactly was in your mouth, “Satoru.” You croaked out hoarsely, due to your throat being stretched out.

You felt warm fingers lower his blindfold from your eyes, and you were greeted by Gojo’s charming smile, “You guessed it. Now how do you wanna take your prize?”

“I want you to fuck me in the air.” A split second of surprise flashed across your teacher's face but was quickly covered by a hungry smile.

“As you wish.”

With that being said, you were immediately floating in the air alongside Gojo. The both of you hovered over the futon so that everyone could see what he’d do to you. He pulled you into his broad chest and guided your body over his lower region. You were able to feel his sprung dick press against your slick cunt. He hastily removed his shirt and smashed his lips onto yours. His tongue teased yours while you felt his hands grip your waist securely.

“I wish I had more time to tease and enjoy you, but we’ll have to make this a bit brief.” Satoru groaned into your ear as he burrowed his extra large dick in your pussy.

Being claimed so suddenly made you moan out in a mixture of pain and pleasure. “Ahh- I missed you!” You blurted, causing you to blush at your confession.

Gojo smirked slyly at the hot and bothered expression you wore, “Mmh, that’s a good girl, missing daddy’s dick, like you’re supposed to.”

Satoru smiled at you wickedly, while he effortlessly bounced you on his rod with such brutal force. Each time his cock was fully inside you, small whimpers and moans would be forced out of your lips. Your adorable pleas rang like music in Gojo’s ears, he relished in the fact of fucking you so scrumptiously in front of the other guys. As a matter of fact, why not put on a show?

Gojo briskly flipped you around, and now you were facing all of the other males in the room. You heard him reach into his pocket and to your shock he attached a leash to the collar he gave you. He pulled the leash taught so your airway was slightly constricted. Satoru’s speed and force increased as he pounded himself deep inside you. Each stroke of his cock sent waves of ecstasy throughout your body, you felt drunk off his dick.

Everyone got a more than perfect view of their teacher's exceptionally lengthy rod, stretching out your wet little snatch. It was an incredible sight to behold. Sure enough, you noticed that each male had sprung and horny dicks, pleading to leave the confines of their pants. Even Mechamaru and Noritoshi were hard again.

Gojo sneakily brought his right hand down to your crotch and began to rub your clit in an overstimulating way. Your body melted at his touch and your pussy dampened uncontrollably, as if a pipe had sprung a leak.

“You’re such a little slut, getting so wet for me while I fuck you in front of your boyfriends. That turn you on, babe?” Satoru murmured in the crook of your neck, then biting down gently. His sultry mouth on your sensitive skin caused you to arch your back with ecstasy. His teasing fingers on your clit, became too much to handle. You were pushed over the edge and drenched his dick in your release as a heavenly moan spilled from your lips.

“Mmh, yeah cum for me baby,” Gojo growled lowly, he could feel his orgasm coming on. Each thrust of his dick felt more powerful than the last, he lost himself in your tight and slippery cunt. His cum erupted inside of you vigorously, you were able to feel the copious amount of liquid shoot into abundantly. He bounced you on his dick, making sure to milk every drop out of him.

A nearby timer went off, notifying both of you that Satoru’s turn was up. Gojo sighed and popped his dick out of you, as soon as he exited your pussy, you immediately felt empty without him. To your surprise, none of your teacher's seed spilled from you, he must’ve shot his load extra deep in you.

Satoru lowered you down to the futon with his technique and helped cover your eyes with his blindfold. He sat himself back on the couch with a lazy smile on his face. Damn, he could never get tired of you.

Next

[danielsarmand]

Heyy, do you have a tutorial on how you make your gifs? They’re so crisp and beautiful, I wanna start making gifs but idk where to begin

hello!! first of all, thank you kindly!!!! i'm always stunned when someone genuinely appreciates my gifs 😭

second of all, please do!! gifmaking is such a fun hobby, i wish it were a tad more rewarding but truly it's a great creative outlet for hyperfixations.

now, i personally don't have a tutorial but that's only because i myself have learned from a bunch of other ones during my years of trial and error and my technique has nothing that's original to it. i can, however, tell you which tutorials i turn to whenever i need a refresh + some tips i have started implementing on my own!!! i'll put everything below the cut.

the tutorials are this one and this one; the first one is a more general step-by-step one and the second one is for adding noise to gifs when they don't have it naturally, which imo greatly helps with making gifs look more hd.

as for the tips:

whenever possible, and if your pc can handle processing them, try and find files that are at least 1080p. 2160p isn't really necessary unless you're making close-up gifs (though i almost always use it if i can find it), but a 1080p file is only legitimate if the size of it is 1.5gb+. anything below that is not actually hd, no matter the claims.

with videogame footage, i generally record my own gameplay and take screencaps from there. when i want to gif youtube videos or anything i can't download by my usual means, i use 4k video downloader.

i used to take my screencaps with kmplayer, but i've been using mpv over the past few months and i find it works more smoothly. kmplayer did serve me well for years though, and the installation isn't as gimmicky, so go with that if you find it easier!

when it comes to resizing the gif (image > image size), i always leave the mode on bicubic automatic; for a time i used to pick bilinear, but i later learned it was the reason why my gifs didn't look how i wanted them to look.

i generally sharpen my gifs with the same action pack mentioned in the first tutorial i linked, but i do also add an unsharp mask layer to make it extra crisp and detailed. these are my settings for it:

whenever i'm giffing something that is not available in Real HD (like youtube videos), i add a step to my usual sharpening by using a set of plugins from topaz labs; now, i have absolutely no idea how i installed them when i did years ago, and i have no clue how to find them anymore, but i'm sure tumblr has answers somewhere. specifically i use topaz clean. i'm pretty sure you could achieve a similar enough result by adding a gaussian blur level to the sharpening, though; either way, my settings for topaz clean are:

when it comes to coloring, i never use .psds, i make the coloring from scratch for each scene, and most times i use multiple colorings per scene. it will take a little while to find your footing with color correction perhaps, but then again, each gifmaker has their own style and that's what's fun!!! one thing i've taken to doing most times, however, is adding an exposure layer towards the end of my coloring layers and upping both exposure and gamma correction based on how much or how little the gif can tolerate; i find it helps a ton with making gifs look hd on mobile, which is notoriously hard to achieve because mobile hates gifs. also, i have a pretty heavy hand when it comes to contrast and to darkening blacks, because in my experience that also helps with resolution.

when i go to save for web once i've finished making my gif, i tend to pick the combo adaptive+diffusion. very rarely i switch from adaptive to selective, but only if adaptive makes the gif look weird, which is usually not the case.

this should be all, i really always follow the same process and it's pretty automatic by now lmao. forgive me for yapping at length, but i hope this can be helpful to you or anyone who might want to try their hand at gifmaking! i'll update the post with my settings asap. thanks again for the love 💕

[yvetteheiser]

Yvette Heiser - Advanced Photo Editing Demystified: Guide to Painting with Pixels

In the realm of digital art and photography, mastering advanced photo editing is a skill that can elevate your work from ordinary to extraordinary and Yvette Heiser Painting with Pixels A Guide to Advanced Photo Editing Techniques, a renowned expert in digital artistry, offers a comprehensive guide titled "Painting with Pixels" that demystifies advanced photo editing techniques. This guide serves as a roadmap for photographers, artists, and enthusiasts looking to enhance their editing skills and create stunning visual masterpieces.

The Foundation: Understanding the Basics

Before delving into advanced techniques, Yvette Heiser emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation. This starts with understanding the basic tools and functions of photo editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop or Light room. Mastery of basic adjustments like exposure, contrast, saturation, and sharpening is essential for any aspiring digital artist.

Harnessing the Power of Layers

One of the most crucial aspects of advanced photo editing is the use of layers. Layers allow you to work on different elements of an image independently, offering unparalleled control and flexibility. Yvette’s guide delves into the art of layering, covering techniques such as layer masking, blending modes, and adjustment layers.

Advanced Retouching Techniques

Yvette Heiser’s guide also explores advanced retouching techniques, which are essential for achieving professional-quality results. These techniques go beyond basic touch-ups and include intricate procedures like frequency separation, dodging and burning, and high-end skin retouching.

Creative Enhancements and Compositing

Beyond technical skills, Yvette’s guide emphasizes the importance of creative enhancements. This includes techniques like compositing, where multiple images are combined to create a single, cohesive masterpiece. Yvette demonstrates how to use selections, masks, and blending modes to seamlessly merge different elements, whether it’s placing a subject in a new background or creating surreal, imaginative scenes.

Utilizing Filters and Plugins

Filters and plugins can greatly enhance the editing process by offering specialized effects and tools not available in standard software. Yvette’s guide introduces a variety of filters and plugins that can streamline workflow and achieve stunning results.

For instance, the Nik Collection offers a suite of filters for color correction, sharpening, and creative effects. Plugins like Portraiture are designed specifically for portrait retouching, providing advanced skin smoothing and detail enhancement tools. Yvette provides insights into selecting the right plugins and integrating them into your editing process for maximum efficiency and creativity.

Food photography is an art that captures the essence of culinary creations, and when done right, it can evoke strong emotions and cravings of Yvette Heiser-Deliciously Dark: Exploring Food Photography in Night Settings, a celebrated food photographer, takes this art form to new heights by exploring the enchanting world of food photography in night settings. Her unique approach to capturing the deliciously dark and mysterious allure of night-time dining experiences offers a fresh perspective on food photography.

The Magic of Night-time Food Photography

Night-time food photography presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. The low light conditions can create a moody, atmospheric backdrop that enhances the visual appeal of dishes. Yvette Heiser believes that the interplay of shadows and highlights in a night-time setting can add depth and dimension to food images, making them more compelling and captivating.

One of the key elements that Yvette focuses on is the use of artificial lighting. Unlike natural daylight, which can be unpredictable, artificial lighting allows for greater control and consistency. By mastering the use of different light sources, such as soft boxes, LED panels, and even candles, Yvette creates a warm and inviting ambiance that brings out the textures and colors of the food.

Techniques for Mastering Night-time Food Photography

Choosing the Right Lighting: Yvette emphasizes the importance of selecting the right lighting equipment. Soft, diffused light is ideal for food photography as it reduces harsh shadows and highlights the details of the dish. She often uses soft boxes or diffusers to achieve this effect. For a more intimate and cozy feel, candles or string lights can be used to create a warm, golden glow.

Playing with Shadows: Shadows play a crucial role in nighttime food photography. Yvette uses shadows to add drama and depth to her images. By carefully positioning the light source, she creates interesting shadow patterns that enhance the composition and draw attention to the main subject.

Balancing Colour Temperature: The color temperature of the light can significantly impact the mood of the photograph. Yvette uses a combination of warm and cool lights to create a balanced and aesthetically pleasing image. Adjusting the white balance settings in the camera or during post-processing can help achieve the desired effect.

Focusing on Composition: Composition is key in any form of photography, and nighttime food photography is no exception. Yvette advises using the rule of thirds, leading lines, and symmetry to create visually appealing images. Paying attention to the placement of utensils, napkins, and other props can also add to the overall composition.

Using Reflectors and Bounce Cards: To fill in shadows and create a more balanced light, Yvette often uses reflectors and bounce cards. These tools help to redirect light onto the subject, ensuring that all parts of the dish are well-lit and highlighted.

Conclusion

"Advanced Photo Editing Demystified: Yvette Heiser’s Guide to Painting with Pixels" is an invaluable resource for anyone looking to elevate their photo editing skills. From mastering basic adjustments to exploring advanced retouching and creative techniques, this guide provides comprehensive insights into the art of digital editing. By following Yvette’s expert advice and dedicating time to practice and experimentation, you can transform your photos into captivating works of art and achieve new heights in your digital artistry journey.

[hclib]

RARE BOOK EXHIBIT NOW ON VIEW

Storied Leaves: Unveiling the Library's Rare Art Book Collection

Visit Minneapolis Central Library to see Storied Leaves: Unveiling the Library’s Rare Art Book Collection! The exhibit, located in Cargill Gallery, features over 80 titles from our rare art folio collection and includes some really stunning prints of art from all over the world! There’s also some library/collection history, explanations of printing techniques, and more. The exhibit runs October 4 – November 29, 2023.

Travel through time and across the globe as you explore the library's rare Art Book Collection. This vibrant exhibit showcases art from six continents—Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Europe, and Oceania—spanning ancient to contemporary times. Produced between 1850 and 1950, the works in this exhibit are leaves from folios, or individual pages contained within portfolios. Most have been carefully hand-printed, stenciled or hand-colored. Delve into the stories of these unique prints to learn how this remarkable collection came to be at Minneapolis Central Library, gain insights into the art and craft of printing, and be inspired to connect with art at your library. This exhibit is funded with money from Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.