#Han Sung Rang preferences

[angelsvoice1love]

Hwarang

"How you met"

Moo Myung/Sun Woo Rang

You were the best friend of A-ro, and helped her best you could with her family. Even though you were from different worlds, or different stature you still adored your friend more than anything in the world.

Your father owned a restaurant, and it was very well established and popular. Your father wasn't bothered by the fact that you had a friend different from yourself, he only wanted you to be happy.

You were on your way to meet A-ro, walking past her home when you heard someone groan in pain. Worried you ran over, entering the room that was open and saw A-ro's father with a patient.

Y/n: Sir. Can I help in anyway? You offered, as you stepped closer.

A-ro dad: Please, I need you to hold him still as best you can.

Nodding you walked over to the man laying down, taking in all his features as you placed his head on your lap. He squirmed of the pain, as the doctor was working. All you did, was take a wet cloth and dab his face lightly.

The next day, you came to check on the man as you placed some medicine on his wounds. After you cleaned the wounds, you took a spoon and gently poured some water in his mouth causing him to swallow.

A-ro dad: Thank you, for watching over him.

Y/n: I told A-ro, that I'll be helping here for a few days. If you wouldn't mind sir. You can teach me how to do what you do.

A-ro dad: I shall teach you, if that is what you want.

Time skip

After a while, he came out of his room standing outside he ran to Aro's father screaming at him making you run towards them.

Y/n: Please stop. I begged the young man, as he held A-ro's father by the clothes.

Out of nowhere he started crying. A-ro's father explained everything, about her brother and all the hurt he's been through and the young man is his friend.

After hearing this you went to the room with some tea, and some soup as you entered.

Y/n: Please drink this, and eat. It'll build up your strength. I...i was out of line...forgive me.

Sun Woo Rang: You have nothing to apologize for. He said, as he turned to look at you. His eyes were red of crying, lips dry and his voice shaky.

Y/n: I know everything and won't say anything to A-ro. This I promise. You said, giving a small bow as you took out your hankerchiff and placing it in his hand.

Sun Woo Rang: Why are you giving me this?

Y/n: For the tears. It's better to use than your hands, it won't hurt. You smiled as you stood but was stopped by his hand.

Sun Woo Rang: I'm...Dog-Bird. My mother didn't want me, so they gave me this name. Might I know yours?

Y/n: It's Y/n L/n

(King) Sam Maek Jong/Ji Dwi Rang

You are one of the maids that works in the castle, one who is trained in sword fighting and how to be a warrior. The queen asked you to stay by her son's side, making sure no one would recognize him and to keep him safe.

You did as you were told and headed to the place he was staying, with the note in your hand. On arriving, you knocked on the room door preparing yourself for what if to be expected.

Opening the door was the guard that was set to him, he read the note and let you in showing you to the prince who would soon be the king.

Guard: Your highness. He asked, entering as he closed the door fast.

All you heard was voices, and then the door soon opened to reveal a handsome young man. Eyes opening wider, and mouth agap you swallowed fast as you composed yourself.

(King) Sam Maek Jong: What is your name?

Y/n: Y/n your highness. I whispered in a low adio so no one except him would hear.

(King) Sam Maek Jong: You shall call me, sir nothing else. I understood that you are meant to protect me too, and attend to all my needs...wait did you say y/n?

Y/n: I did sir.

(King) Sam Maek Jong: You were my friend in the castle. You were with me in class, upon writing and reading...after that we'd play by the garden. He said, stepping closer as he took your hand in his.

Y/n: I remember sir, but-

(King) Sam Maek Jong: We shall be friend in the sight of others, so that I seem normal.

Nodding you agreed, as he sat down gesturing for you to sit as he wanted to ask many questions.

Han Sung Rung

You came with A-ro to tend to the hurt Hwarang's, since your father worked with A-ro's father he learned a lot and taught you.

You got one of the Hwarang men, who needed stitches on his arm. He looked at you as you cleaned the wound before taking the stitch in hand. He breathed in, getting ready for what was to come.

Y/n: Here. Before I start, eat this root while I'm busy stitching you up. It'll help with the pain.

Han Sun Rung: I do not need it. I'm n-

Y/n: Please. I do not like seeing anyone in pain, that's why I am here...to mend the hurt. You said, as he looked at you.

Opening his mouth, you gently placed the root in his mouth, as he started eating it while you did the stitching. He grinched a few times, but stopped when you were done.

After you were done, you gently started wrapping the arm when he spoke.

Han Sung Rang: Thank you. He said, a smile instantly on his face. Please may I know your name?

Y/n: It's y/n l/n.

Han Sung Rang: it's an honor to meet you. My name is Han Sung Rang. Are you from the l/n household?

Y/n: I am. Maybe I will see you again Mr Han.

Han Sung Rang: Please, call me Sung Rang.

Y/n: Sung Rang...put this medicine on your arm to prevent infection. I hope you get well soon. You smiled in return, as he nodded and walked off.

Soo Ho Rang

You know Ho Rang, since your families are entertwined and are best friends.

Ban Ryu Rang

You were So Ho Rang's sister, and didn't care for the fued between them. You hated how they would always fight, and have absolutely no reason for it.

You were at Okta with your brother, and his friends when they ran into Ban Ryu Rang and his friends. Swallowing you knew what was going to happen, Ho Rang stepped forward, yelling at Ryu Rang but all he did was stay silent.

Ryu Rang looked at you, all he did was raise a brow as you stepped forward grabbing your brother's arm.

Y/n: Please brother. I beg of you don't do this. You asked, as you looked at his friend.

Soo Ho Rang: Y/n-

Y/n: I-

Some guy entered and stopped the fight that started not long after. The man, stood in front of the one man you disliked more than anything and started to fight him by staying in a circle.

You moved around, trying to avoid the man you disliked, when you tripped over his feet sending you stumbling backward and into the arms of someone. Looking up you saw Ban Ryu Rang holding you in his arms, preventing you from hurting yourself.

Soo Ha Rang: HEY! Your brother yelled, as he looked at the sight in front of him.

Letting go of you, you stopped your brother as you placed your hand on his chest.

Y/n: Brother...he only prevented me from getting hurt. Now shall we leave?

He nodded his head, as they turned around leaving you to look over at Ryu Rang.

Y/n: Thank you. You spoke, as you nodded.

Ban Ryu Rang didn't say anything, as he nodded as you walked off.

Knowing Ban Ryu Rang, from the moment the fuad started he never tried to insult you or hurt you in anyway nor did his friends. Which didn't make any sense, since his friends didn't like you either but them not doing anything to you was strange but you didn't complain at all.

[dbgdbw]

296.Waver(ing)

흔��림

The soles of his shoes padded lightly against the smoothly paved runway. Sung Hyunjae languidly turned his head to survey his surroundings.

It was quiet. Aside from the flight crew disembarking from the airplane, no other living presence could be sensed. The airport was likely in a similar state. Possibly, someone might have been left in the control tower. Even so–by this time, they had likely managed to evacuate the premises as well.

“It seems that the outcome will remain the same, regardless of what I might say.”

“Will you be forthcoming with an explanation, then.”

“No.”

Sung Hyunjae smiled, as though delighted by the turn of events. Without ever moving his eyes from him, Song Taewon verified that the crew members had made their escape via the runway.

“When you’ve gone to such lengths for an engagement with me, it would be remiss of me to turn away Section Chief Song Taewon-nim’s show of sincerity.”

“If you have no intentions of causing a disturbance, a verbal confirmation that you are capable of exercising control in your present state is all that will be required.”

“A single word is all that’s needed, is it.”

“Yes.”

Song Taewon answered calmly. However, he held no expectations that Sung Hyunjae would indeed comply with the utterance. When it was clear that he’d already been roused, the chances that he would say that nothing’s amiss, of his own volition, was nil. Approaching with his head bowed in such a way, was unsuited to him.

An S-rank Hunter displaying erratic behavior couldn’t be summarily dismissed without ado. However, this wasn’t someone who could be dissuaded by words, either. Ultimately, the most favorable outcome he could hope for was to attempt to de-escalate him here, however much possible.

“You opted not to travel back with Han Yoojin-ssi–why?”

Song Taewon finally opened his mouth, once the flight crew had disappeared into the airport.

“I’d no idea that young Han Yoojin was of an age that yet required a chaperone. He’d assured me that he was twenty-five, you see, and so I’d been soundly hoodwinked.”

“Is he in stable condition?”

Golden eyes, curved slightly in a smile, turned faintly chilling. As Sung Hyunjae remained silent, Song Taewon regarded him quietly in turn.

He’d heard, in broad strokes, what had happened from Moon Hyuna. There was nothing amiss with Han Yoojin. However, something had–at least, between him and Sung Hyunjae–likely transpired.

Without that being the case, there wasn’t a reason why Sung Hyunjae would have reentered the country first.

If it was simply that he’d lost interest, it would be a relief. But when he was showing an aberrant response, like now; what should he think.

It was unfamiliar. Enough that he felt reluctant to delve any deeper into the matter. There was another reason for this, as well. He was the Section Chief of the Awakened Persons Management Division, Song Taewon. More than anything, that fact took precedence.

“Hunter Sung Hyunjae, please provide an answer regarding the matter of your present state.”

“And if I choose to exercise my right to silence, what will you do.”

“The response protocol will be the same as for the procedure for post-Dungeon raid conditions.”

“Though it hardly bears comparison to that sort of thing. Very well.”

Sung Hyunjae’s magical energy shifted, lightly, easily. As natural as breathing, a faint electrical current trickled outwards.

Song Taewon’s hands tensed. Rather than a complicated conversation, this method was preferable. All the more so, as assorted revelations tended to follow on the heels of conversation.

Dress shoes ground against the floor. The runway was sturdy, built to withstand the impact of a plane taking off and landing. With the appearance of a faint crack in the reinforced pavement, Sung Hyunjae’s form vanished from its spot.

콰드득!

A thunderous clap rang out as fist met with palm. Song Taewon blocked the straight jab, thrust his way without any embellishment.

Squarely meeting the fist that had been hurled forward at full force, Song Taewon shot Sung Hyunjae a wary look.

“...what do you mean by this.”

Just a plain swing of his fist, without any Skill or finesse involved. It was nearly enough to cause him to be taken aback.

“Were you not proposing to let me to plow you, to at least vent my frustration.”(1)

끼익, with the squeal of shoes as the tip of his foot pressed into the ground, he moved into a kick. This time as well, there was a distinct lack of an electric current jumping out, or the metallic clatter of chains.

Song Taewon blocked the kick aimed straight for his forearm. Seeing the way he didn’t budge an inch, even when pressed with his entire body weight, Sung Hyunjae gave a crooked smile as he retreated with a light jump.

“What a stiff sandbag.”

“Why...!”

“To think I'd end up conscripted into aiding a public servant find his release, and in broad daylight no less.”(2)

What a tragic state of affairs, Sung Hyunjae said, affecting an exaggeratedly saddened expression.

“My dear Section Chief Song Taewon-nim, do bare your teeth properly.”

Raising his arm to glance at the time, Sung Hyunjae went on.

“The next plane should be arriving within the day, I imagine. In three or four hours’ time, likely. You should endeavor to clear the area of hazards before then, no.”

“...given the situation at present, precaution should be taken to ensure that no S-rank Hunter sustains significant harm. The chances of an incident breaking out between Korea and Japan is–.”

“How self-assured. How should I put this–that I do cherish young Han Yoojin, is true.”

Sung Hyunjae said, lightly pressing a curled finger to his chin. Outwardly, he appeared to be enclosed deep in tranquil thought.

“A rare one-of-a-kind value, and entertaining to boot. Enough that I wonder if there might ever be something I consider worth treasuring more, in the past as well as future. Though it might require a significant investment of resources, I entertained the notion of protecting it, and seeing to most things it might need. Since it’s valuable enough to warrant doing so.”

Without lowering his guard, Song Taewon regarded Sung Hyunjae.

Song Taewon was well aware of this, too. If it was something that caught his attention, something that he deemed to be of value, Sung Hyunjae became magnanimous. He didn’t shy away from the effort it took, carving out the time to pay meticulous attention to the quality of care given.

Only, when it came to Han Yoojin, it occasionally felt as though it turned particularly overzealous.

“...have you tired of him, now that it’s come to this.”

“It might’ve been more convenient, were that the case.”

차르륵, a whisper of chains sounded.

“As, even if my interest had waned, the value would remain the same–and so, simply cherishing him as I’d done before would have been sufficient.”

But now, it had become difficult to do even just that.

“I confess I feel, somewhat conflicted.”

Sung Hyunjae’s gaze fixed directly on Song Taewon.

“On how to proceed.”

Unconsciously, Song Taewon grit his teeth together. Just why.

Unbidden, Han Yoohyun’s image came to him. A vision he’d never before witnessed, nor thought he’d ever be privy to. Smiling brightly, with innocent delight; showing genuine concern for another; approaching him first, with warm, mundane affection.

“Section Chief Song Taewon.”

“...hadn’t you always behaved willfully, to begin with.”

“And if I’ve become unable to, what will you do.”

Sung Hyunjae said, as though in provocation. No–it was most certainly a provocation. Akin to fluttering a red flag, in front of a bull.

“No matter how much something might appeal to me, ‘I’ will always come foremost. Being ‘my property’, ‘something that I cherish’--at its core, it still returns back to ‘me’.”

“I am aware.”

Song Taewon shifted his stance slightly. His feet braced against the ground. He didn’t want to listen any further.

But even then, he was unable to urge himself onwards. Because when it came to his own desires–continually repressing and enduring things, was the proper stance to take regarding such impurities.

“You asked why I returned early, alone? Why, it was in avoidance.”

Isn’t it funny, Sung Hyunjae said.

“As it seemed as though I would be unable to keep myself from desisting any longer, and lay my hands on it regardless.”

“You(3) mean to say, you would.”

“That’s right. So, Song Taewon–go ahead and bite.”

Before I maul your tender lamb to shreds.

Like a command had fallen, Song Taewon lunged. As though the leash pulled taut had snapped, he fell upon his foe. There was no need for deeper contemplation. Han Yoojin was weak, and therefore an entity he was bound to protect. And Sung Hyunjae had professed an intention for violence.

He could act–assuredly, simply.

피지지직! Electric currents leapt up. As if they intended to sear through Song Taewon’s flesh, to char even his bones, they blitzed towards him.

Though he did possess an electricity-resistance Item, when viewed in light of his adversary’s rank, it fell abysmally short. However–so long as he could avoid a mortal blow with it, it would be sufficient.

Using the black shadow that allowed him to nullify his opponent’s Skill to block the concentrated electrical current aimed at his vitals, he swung the knife he’d taken out at some juncture towards Sung Hyunjae’s neck.

카랑! However, the knife was deflected by golden chains that quickly fanned out into existence, the two crashing together. When it came to pure strength, the knife, with the weight of momentum behind it, was superior; however, the difference in equipment was clear.

As the blade of the knife shattered, the flat of Sung Hyunjae’s hand shot out towards Song Taewon’s body to land a blow. Quickly twisting his body to dodge, Song Taewon jerked his knee up into Sung Hyunjae’s arm, to knock it away.

If they had collided as-is, the one who would have been injured was Sung Hyunjae. As someone who was capable of increasing density–and therefore weight–with his Skill, at the same rank, without a defensive Skill, rebuffing Song Taewon’s close-range attack was a difficult task. In addition, it was too late to retreat his hand. Instead of attempting to dodge, Sung Hyunjae turned his palm towards the ground.

콰드득, putting enough strength into his feet to cause the sturdy pavement underfoot to crack, Sung Hyunjae’s body soared upwards. Without resisting the kinetic force exerted by the surging attack, gently placing the palm of his hand on Song Taewon’s knee like a springboard, he’d used the inertia to complete a flip midair instead.

But Song Taewon wasn’t one to just watch as Sung Hyunjae nimbly sailed overhead, as though he’d escaped gravity. As he brought his folded knee back down, simultaneously, a sharp object flew from his hand. 파바박, as the sound of something digging through flesh was heard, the chains rammed down towards Song Taewon like an incensed snake.

콰각!

The floor shattered under the end of the chain. Then, 콰득, 콱!, it continued thrusting in pursuit of Song Taewon, as he attempted to move out of the way. Unable to retaliate with his own weapon, having cloaked one side with Plundering(掠奪), Song Taewon seized the golden chain in his hand and wound it around his arm.

The chain was pulled taut between the two people. Though electricity skittered up the chain, it was consumed by the black shadow and dwindled.

“A monster’s spine, is it.”

One arm still occupied with holding the chain, Sung Hyunjae lifted his other arm. Four barbs were embedded in his wrist.

Closing his mouth around the end of a spine, he drew it out, never taking his gaze away from Song Taewon. The barbs, slowly eased out from his body, 툭툭, dropped to the floor one by one. Blood soaked through his sleeve in an instant.

“Though the paralyzing agent remains still, it appears weak.”

Song Taewon took a deep breath. Shifting his weight to both feet, he jerked the chain towards himself. Unable to beat him in a contest of strength, it seemed as though Sung Hyunjae was being pulled forward, when 투두둑, the segments of the chain suddenly broke apart.

The dismantled links, shooting out towards the direction in which they’d been pulled.

쾅! 콰광!

Bore into the innocent body of the plane.

Though the force it exerted was tantamount to a bomb going off, without so much as a flinch, Song Taewon steadily deflected the links as he sprinted towards Sung Hyunjae. But obstructing his way was a dreadful electrical energy.

쿠르르릉!

Blinding light burst outwards. With a tremendous roar, the energy with incredible destructive power enshrouded Song Taewon completely. Struggling against the dreadful pressure exerted by that light, Song Taewon narrowly managed to slam his foot into the ground. The specially reinforced concrete, forced upwards, deflected the wildly dancing electrical current.

At the same time.

“Kuh!”

Having materialized behind Song Taewon, Sung Hyunjae connected a powerful kick with his back. As his body smashed into the raised wall of concrete, a concussive sound was heard.

Unable to open his eyes properly due to the strength of the light, Song Taewon flung himself away on instinct and into a roll to move out of the way. 차르르, the chain drove down at the space where Song Taewon had been, reminiscent of a lance.

“......!”

Suddenly changing directions, it speared through Song Taewon’s arm. His opponent was someone whose was someone whose attacks could only just be avoided, to begin with. There was a high possibility that even letting himself be hit with the paralyzing spines, had been an intentional allowance.

The chain, which had speared through his arm like a cast fishing line, made a half-loop and pulled. Song Taewon’s body, flung away, smashed through the plane and tumbled through the resulting debris. Lightning struck from above, in the very same spot. Swallowing back the blood seeping between his teeth, Song Taewon dodged. Accompanied by the blackened smell of burning, flames danced.

Beyond the wafting smoke, a man standing tall could be seen. Upon witnessing his state–immaculate, but for a slight redness at his sleeve–Song Taewon found himself reassured, rather. Splashing a potion over his body, he stood up.

“That Partner of mine most certainly would’ve harped on, had he witnessed this state.”

The stroke of his fingers against the end of the chain that had returned to him was elegant without measure. Even the locks that had become disheveled by their rough movements, seemed like it had been done in a calculated gambit. He was a sight completely removed from the disarrayed rubble scattered around them.

“Do not go near Han Yoojin-ssi.”

Debris from the plane crunched underfoot as Song Taewon walked forward.

Sung Hyunjae watched him with assessing eyes. He took in the fervidly heated gaze fixed upon him, at odds with the implacably stony expression he wore.

“The two of you, are more alike than you realize.”

“What you’re suggesting.”

“What you desire from me, as well as that repressed inner self.”

Song Taewon’s expression pinched slightly. 우지직, the sound of something crashing to the ground, rang out from behind.

“As I was able to find a measure of release, thanks to you, I’ll extend my gratitude for that, at least.”

“W, ait!”

“I’m standing here, as you can see.”

His fist, his legs tensed. But Song Taewon was unable to resume attacking. If he had been sated, then that was that. Seeing the way he hesitated, Sung Hyunjae lifted the end of a brow minutely before turning away.

* * *

“So, it wasn’t a notable injury?”

“Yes–the Seseung guild leader has retired to his residence, and Section Chief Song Taewon is in sound condition as well.”

I heard the news when I reached the airport lounge. Sung Hyunjae had arrived at the airport and gotten into a scrap with Song Taewon, who had been waiting for him. That was the extent of what I could pry out of them. With a complicated heart, I stroked Peace, who was sitting in my lap.

‘Though it’s a relief that the two of them are okay.’

There was no way Section Chief Song would’ve been the one to throw the first punch, so. Sung Hyunjae-ssi, just what did you think you were doing. To calm my irate feelings, I chugged down the drink set beside me.

“That we would have to still go through a reception, after everything!”

“Yerim-ah, it’s been three days.”

Though it felt like a long time had passed for me, too.

At my words, Yerimie, who was currently caught in the coordinator’s firm grip, sulkily puffed out her cheeks. Though we’d wanted to return home immediately, saying that there was a need to prepare in anticipation of a reception celebrating our win in the friendly match with Japan, we’d been detained like so. Something about an even more jovial celebration being called for, in order to improve the atmosphere following the sudden infestation of monsters.

Turning my head, I could see Yoohyunie and Hyuna-ssi, both of them deeply preoccupied with the work reports that had accumulated in the meanwhile. Though there hadn’t been any significant problems at Haeyeon, Hyuna-ssi was grimacing at the incidents Liette had stirred up.

“Makes me feel sorry towards Soyoungie.”

But perhaps because of the impending events, too, there wasn’t anything said about Breaker Guild taking responsibility as well, too. Celebration, or whatever–I just wanted to get it over with, and go home.

- - - - -

(1) ‘화풀이나 하라고 대주는 것 아니었나’

‘PG’ reading:

‘so it’s not you offering yourself up as an outlet for my temper?’

‘alternative’ reading:

‘대주(기)’ = lit. to ‘put something to (something)’, with both the connotation of ‘offering up’ and ‘leaning/pressing against’; used as innuendo for someone on the receiving end ‘offering up’ their body + ‘화풀이’ = ‘venting one’s emotions on smth’ → ‘so it’s not you offering to let me use(fuck) you to at least blow off steam?’

(2) ‘대낮부터 공직자의 자기 위로나 돕는 신세라니’

‘자위’ is the slang/shortened ver. of ‘자기(self-) 위로(consolation/comfort)’, i.e. masturbation.. the full implication being that shj is going to ‘help work’ stw to completion ‘even while it’s still broad daylight’

‘PG’ reading:

‘to think, i’d end up in the position of having to help a government employee console himself, and from so early on in the day’

(3) though shj(38) uses 하게체 with both hyj(25/30) and stw(34) (while he doesn’t with mha(27), for example), when he speaks to hyj, it’s in the way you’d speak to a younger person of a different generation, whereas the way he speaks to stw is how you’d speak to a contemporary/peer. the way stw speaks to shj is polite-formal, but in a way that’s also the way some more traditional/’respectful’ adult couples speak to each other, particularly because of the ‘you(당신)’ used: 

it’s the discrepancy in honorific level with regards to their interpersonal dynamics that renders hyj’s occasional use of ‘당신’ rude/aggressive, while stw’s consistent references to shj as ‘당신’ get read w/ the ‘acceptable/intimate’ use. since pronoun-dropping in kr means that the ‘you’ can be skipped altogether in a sentence, geunseo-nim deliberately including an instance of it in the text, is done so to inform the reader on the dynamic that exists between the characters.

other examples of intentional manners of address in speech dynamics being significant story-wise can be seen in ch557, for example, where hyj is able to pinpoint that the person calling out to him is hyh simply because of the way he addresses him:

“안녕.” 경찰청장의 말이 뚝 끊어졌다. 그와 동시에 정체를 알 수 있었다. 나를 부르는 호칭이 차단될 만한 정 보인 사람. 그리고 존댓말도 아닌. “...유현아?”

“Hey.” The police chief’s words abruptly dropped off. Simultaneously, I was able to ascertain their identity. Someone who was close enough, that they held the right to drop identifiers(호칭*) for me altogether. Nor using honorifics, either. “...Yoohyun-ah?”

this level of intimacy/familiarity is reserved for family/lovers(w/ younger couples, in contrast to hjtw’s ‘older married couple’ dynamic), the conflation being since, ostensibly, your significant other is on the track to becoming family.

*호칭 would be the title/tie/relationship to x/name mentioned below:

novel hjtw

+(Q&A)

Q) are hunters typically big eaters?

A) the higher the rank, the more efficient their digestive abilities become–but as the amount of energy they consume increases proportionately as well, they tend to be big eaters, for the most part. but notably, high-ranked Hunters are capable of ‘absorbing energy’ via their magical energy as well. accordingly, the more advanced their control over magical energy, the less they need to eat. in addition, their idiosyncrasies vary depending on their respective ‘properties’.

[...] conversely, as song taewon must keep repressing the power of the Lunar Eclipse that continually compels him to swallow things down, even with outstanding control over his magical energy, the amount he eats is sizeable. [...] sung hyunjae has outstanding control, but due to his status as a Waxing Moon, his body demands more energy–something that he ignores.

+(Q&A)

Q) when section chief song-nim was driving around a compact car, how did he drive?

A) he picked the car with the highest clearance and longest seat rails out of the selection of compact cars that were available, but even then, it was cramped after all. however, as song taewon felt a kind of reassurance(comfort) from that stifling condition, he paid no mind to the physical discomfort it caused. it’s because sung hyunjae was aware that song taewon’s compact car was one of the methods he utilized to repress himself, that it irked him all the more ^^

+(Q&A)

Q) have any of the respective heads of organizations acted as chief mourner in a funeral for a subordinate who lost their family to a Dungeon break?

A) song taewon and moon hyuna have done so in the past. han yoohyun has not, but even if the occasion had come up, he wouldn’t want to participate in the capacity of chief mourner, which is typically filled by family. pre-regression, han yoohyun’s family comprised only one person, han yoojin–and even as a temporary arrangement, he has no intention of letting another step into a position that’s reserved for family only.  in the case of sung hyunjae, the sole person he’d considered to hold a relationship with himself that would warrant doing such pre-regression, was song taewon. at present, with song taewon of course being a given, he’s also considering taking up the position of chief mourner for han yoojin’s funeral, as han yoohyun would have perished alongside him, if it turns out that bak yerim struggles to do so.

+(Q&A)

Q) 성현제가 힐링할 때 주로 뭘 하는지 궁금합니다

A) when sung hyunjae needed a pick-me-up pre-regression, he went to tease song taewon. following song taewon’s death, even when he was somewhere with splendid scenery and fresh air, all he felt was endless tedium. post-regression, with han yoojin being added alongside song taewon, the candidates in his selection pool for ‘healing(relaxing)’ increased to two.

+(Q&A)

Q) hello author-nim! pre-regression, why did sung hyunjae end up leaving for switzerland, specifically? it seemed as though he’d traversed through various countries before deciding on switzerland; i was curious why, out of countless countries, he ended up choosing switzerland! additionally, would it be alright to ask approximately how many times sung hyunjae had been re-planted…??

A) song taewon’s influence played a significant role. having been bequeathed song taewon’s miscarried Plundering(掠奪), he(shj) sought a place that would suit song taewon and be a place he(stw) could live peacefully+was far away from korea. it was also the background of the postcard he would send han yoojin, too. however, he wasn’t set on switzerland from the beginning, and so long as it was an idyllic location somewhere in the Alps, he wouldn’t have cared where it ended up being. other than that it’s in the triple digits, i’ll leave the exact number your imagination ^^

[dramacoolwatch]

Dramacool: Asian Drama, Movies and KShow English Sub in

Best Working Alternative Sites like Dramacool to Watch Korean Dramas For Free. Dramacool is quite popular for being one of the best English subbed and dubbed K shows in HD. The website is a Korean Dramas and TV shows video sharing platform which users can watch all the Subbed and Dubbed dramas for free.

Before now, we talked on the Dramacool android application. The app allows you stream and download your favourite TV series and movies absolutely for free. If you’d rather prefer using apps to actually visiting sites, you should consider checking that app out.

Back to the subject matter, Dramacool is seen as the website most K shows lovers spend time. Reason for this is, the website offers a wide range of Korean dramas and series. There are different K shows genres to choose including Horror, Comedy, Romance, Fighting, Adventure and a whole lot more.

Asides being able to access these English Subbed Dramas, TV series and web series, Dramacool has the largest collection of uploads, of which most are in relatively good quality. By good quality, we are making reference to video qualities between 240p to 1080p

Korean Dramas and TV Shows

Korean Drama series and TV shows are amazingly popular throughout the globe. If you are one of the Korean Drama fans then this website (Dramacool) is really going to help you. Here in this Website you are going to watch online all the dramas and web series without any delay. Dramacool is a well-known website for English Subbed Dramas, Korean Dramas, and Korean TV shows. If we talk about the users experience regarding Dramacool, It proved an amazing platform for this kind of stuff.

We shall highly recommend you to watch these popular dramas on Dramacool

The Penthouse 3: War in Life (2021)

After an Amazing end of Season 2 of the penthouse, now Season 3 is about start on 4thof June 2021. Previous 2 seasons were amazingly became popular globally and now viewers are eagerly waiting for season 3.

Doom at your service (2021)

This drama is available on Dramacool. All the episodes are updated time to time.

Park Bo Young, Seo In Guk, Lee See Hyuk are the leading character.

Life on Mars (2021)

This Drama is categorized in the genres like Action, Suspense, Mystery and investigations we shall highly recommend to watch this drama

My Roommate is a Gumiho (2021)

If you like the Flavours of Romance, Fantasy and Comedy then don’t forget to watch this drama.

Jang ki yong, Lee Hye Ri , Kang Han Na are the main characters of this drama.

I Promised You the Moon (2021)

If you like to watch young character to watch in action, this drama is really going to be the best choice of yours.

Between Us (2021)

A romantic drama from Thailand, Based on the story of two childhood friends and full of romance.

Main Role: Boun Noppanut, Prem Warut, Fluke Natouch

Private Lives (2020)

‘Private lives’ is one of the best dramas of 2020 based on the store of secret missions. This dramas is categorized in mystery, thrill, Romance, Crime.

So I Married an Anti-Fan (2021)

This drama is for those who love to watch comedy and romance. Then we shall highly recommend you to watch this drama, when you watch this drama you are really going to enjoy every moment of it.

Main Role:

Choi Tae Joon Choi Soo Young Hwang Chan Sung Han Ji An Kim Min Kyu Kim Min Kyo

Thirty But Seventeen (2018)

In this drama a girl (Woo Seo R) which is 17 years old and reaches to Germany for study purpose. There she got into a bus accident and went for coma for 13 years due trauma. When she awakens she becomes 30 years old, mentally acts like 17 and she looks like 30 by physique. On Dramacool this amazing drama is available to watch.

Main Cast:

Shin Hye Sun Yang Se Jong Ahn Hyo Seop Ye Ji Won

Wang Ji Won

Yoon Sun Woo

Familiar Wife (2018)

This drama is from South Korea. Which is based on the story of daily life of a male and female character and they marry for only 5 years. It became very popular in 2018. You can watch this drama Serial on Dramacool.

Main role:

Ji Sung. Han Ji Min Kang Han Na. Jang Seung Jo, Son Jong Hak

Main features of Dramacool

· Easy to access watch online Korean TV series, Dramas, Web series and TV shows.

· Dramacool allows the English Subtitles which is the best part of this website.

· You can watch the content even on slow internet speed without any delay.

· Users can easily search top dramas, their favourites and super hit dramas which can prevent the users from waste of time.

· In Dramacool Dramas and TV series are categorized separately like different categories of Action, Romance, emotions, and Moral stories.

· Dramacool is always updated time to time and from the first episode to the last episode. users can access all the episodes without any delay.

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· Both the download and Watch online options are available on Dramacool.

· Dramacool competes with other websites like Asiantaxi, kissasian, myassiantv and viewasian.

[dweemeister]

Flower Drum Song (1961)

M*A*S*H and Star Trek: The Next Generation have long been television favorites of mine. My parents introduced me to both shows – fixtures in American entertainment as Vietnamese refugee families fled to and renewed their lives in the United States. The writers of M*A*S*H, a show set during the Korean War, did not make it a secret that the show mirrored American involvement in the Vietnam War. M*A*S*H understandably focused its attention on its mostly white doctors, nurses, and non-coms. But from time to time, the show railed against war’s horrible effects on the local populace, on whose land such bloodshed is waged. In these episodes, M*A*S*H always cast Asian-American actors of varying ethnicities to play the Koreans (the value of these depictions of Koreans varies, but it is evident the all-white writing staff gave their best effort to portray Koreans in their full humanity). For a show that aired from 1971-1983, this was a radical decision as yellowface was still a widely-accepted practice in Hollywood. Star Trek, in its various incarnations, has espoused “Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations” from its inception. Numerous Asian-American recurring actors and guest stars of these shows have appeared in these shows I cherish (and many others) for decades. My memory flows with many of their faces and voices, even if I do not recall their names.

Adapted from C.Y. Lee’s novel of the same name, Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II’s musical Flower Drum Song debuted on Broadway in 1958. The musical resembled nothing currently on the Great White Way, with an almost entirely all-Asian cast. Yet this musical still caused consternation. Some Asian-Americans expressed their rightful disapproval towards Rodgers and Hammerstein’s patronizing dialogue and racially insensitive characterizations. For this film adaptation by Universal (this is the only Rodgers and Hammerstein film adaptation without 20th Century Fox’s involvement), screenwriter Joseph Fields – who collaborated with Hammerstein on Flower Drum Song’s book – made major adjustments in order to stem controversy. Fields rearranged the plot and soundtrack and, most importantly, rewrote more than half of Flower Drum Song’s dialogue in order to accomplish a more respectful (if still imperfect) portrayal of all the musical’s characters.

The reworked Flower Drum Song attracted a star-studded Asian-American cast. So many in this cast are actors and actresses I have known only through their guest or recurring television roles, maybe the odd extra in a movie. To see them act in non-denigrating roles, sing, and dance in a major Hollywood studio feature film was revelatory. I admit, while viewing Flower Drum Song, feeling pangs of frustration over how Hollywood’s structural racism precluded too many in this cast from stardom. But that frustration was overcome by joy – a joy in seeing these Asian-American actors display their talents in a fashion I, even in 2020, long to witness. Though still constrained by Rodgers and Hammerstein’s stereotypical views towards people of Asian descent, Flower Drum Song is a unique cinematic experience.

Mei Li (Miyoshi Umeki) and her father, Dr. Han Li (Kam Tong) have stowed away on a ship carrying them from their home in China to San Francisco. The Lis are here to complete Sammy Fong’s (Jack Soo) request for a mail-order bride. Sammy is the slick-talking owner of the Celestial Gardens nightclub, who just so happens to be in a relationship with his principal showgirl, Linda Low (Nancy Kwan). So when the Lis arrive at the nightclub, Sammy realizes the pickle he has put himself in. In his attempts to dissolve the marriage contract, he has the Lis take up residence with the Wang family – including patriarch Wang Chi-Yang (Benson Fong), Master Wang’s sister-in-law Madame Liang (Juanita Hall, a mixed-race actor of African-American and Irish descent, in yellowface), eldest son Wang Ta (James Shigeta), and younger son Wang San (Patrick Adiarte). Secretly, Sammy has convinced Madame Liang to allow Mei Li to fall naturally in love with Wang Ta. Meanwhile, Linda is flustered with Sammy after learning of his mail-order bride plans. They separate, and she soon begins to start dating Wang Ta. Wang Ta is also the object of affection of childhood friend and seamstress, Helen Chao (Reiko Sato). If you could not guess by now, the plot of Flower Drum Song revolves around complicated relationship polygons.

Actors also appearing in this film are Victor Sen Yung as the Celestial Gardens’ emcee, Soo Yong as Madame Yen Fong (Sammy’s mother; this role was to be played Anna May Wong, but she died before production began), and James Hong as the head waiter at the Celestial Gardens. Virginia Ann Lee and Cherylene Lee play Wang San’s girlfriend and the Wang family’s youngest daughter, respectively.

In this rewriting of Flower Drum Song, screenwriter Joseph Fields, there is a greater focus on generational conflict. This film adaptation is unclear when the story takes place. But by looking at some of the technology and mannerisms, I will guess sometime after World War II, probably the 1950s. In this rendition of San Francisco’s Chinatown, first-generation Chinese immigrants live alongside the second and third generations. This mix creates a tension that permeates across the film – from how characters dress, behave in public (if they even go out in public) and private settings, and most notably romantic expectations.

The depiction of this tension is simplistic: those are not American-born uphold as many traditions as they can; those who are American-born are “Chinese” to some extent, but mostly do not think much about Chinese traditions. You are either assimilated into American society or not, says Flower Drum Song – a troublesome generalization that persists in Asian-American subgroups whose history in the U.S. is not as long as Chinese-Americans. But, in a rare instance for a Golden Age Hollywood film, Fields assures that this adaptation does not mock the first generation for not being as “American” as they could possibly be. Assimilation is on the terms of the characters, not contrived societal norms. Another anomaly in Flower Drum Song: the younger generations are assertively American, rather than offshoots of their elders. The younger generations’ unaccented English, wide range of characterizations, and their incidental Asianness (in that they do not feel the need to announce their Asian or Chinese heritage to others or to the audience) is unusual for the time in which this film was released. At the very minimum, Flower Drum Song tries to normalize Asian-American personhood. When the film fails to uphold that, it is mostly because of preexisting issues. In those instances, Fields cannot write his way outside how Rodgers and Hammerstein had already presented Flower Drum Song on the Broadway stage without compromising the duo’s artistic intent.

Many of the actors involved are not Chinese-American, but the performances are sincere, whether comedic or dramatic*. Having seen only a few of his works, I now wonder whether James Shigeta was just so naturally charming. As the go-to Asian-American romantic lead in Hollywood (not that he was cast in such a role often), his performance is seamless, appearing almost effortless. The same could also be said for Nancy Kwan, fresh off her well-publicized cinematic debut in The World of Suzie Wong (1960). An alumnus of the Royal Ballet School in London, Kwan also shows off her fancy footwork multiple times. Kwan’s dancing mastery is without question and, paired with choreographer Hermes Pan (best remembered as Fred Astaire’s principal choreographic collaborator), showcases her talents. As Mei Li, Miyoshi Umeki is slightly hamstrung by her role’s characterization. Yet as one of two actors who reprised the role they originated on the Broadway stage (along with Juanita Hall as Madame Liang; Jack Soo also appeared on Broadway, but switched roles), I was convinced by Umeki’s emotional fragility and shyness – all this for a character who has just arrived in a foreign land, bewildered by what she sees.

For the M*A*S*H fan in me, there is a special delight seeing Jack Soo and Patrick Adiarte here. Soo, best known as Det. Nick Yemana in the sitcom Barney Miller and for his distinctive face, is the natural comedian in the cast. His delivery – physically, verbally – is fantastic in this film. Adiarte, who also starred as Prince Chulalongkorn in The King and I (1956; I had not made the M*A*S*H connection when I watched that film four years ago) has a solo dance number (“The Other Generation”) in Flower Drum Song that I was floored by due to his athleticism.

As lead choreographer on Flower Drum Song, Hermes Pan directs several dancing segments for the film, each one markedly different from the other. The three most notable dance numbers are “Grant Avenue”; “Fan Tan Fannie”, “Love, Look Away” (the first two include Nancy Kwan; the other includes Reiko Sato and James Shigeta). Alongside the production design by Alexander Golitzen (1940’s Foreign Correspondent, 1960’s Spartacus); Joseph C. Wright (1942’s My Gal Sal, 1953’s Gentlemen Prefer Blondes); and Howard Bristol (1940’s Rebecca, 1959’s Anatomy of a Murder) and the costume design by Irene Sharaff (1951’s An American in Paris, The King and I), the dances are built for Technicolor – even though the film’s Chinatown looks too obviously like a soundstage construction. The abstractions in “Love, Look Away” offer the best example of this choreographic-production design-costuming collaboration. The use of empty space, props suggesting physical divisions and other people, and the enormous dreamlike atmosphere position the scene to be a cinematic manifestation of Helen’s unrequited love for Wang Ta (notably, the dancing segment uses the melody of a song not sung for Helen, but for another). In its ethereal beauty, “Love, Look Away” is a marvelous several minutes of cinematic dance – appearing in a decade where such scenes would only become more rare.

The order of the Rodgers and Hammerstein songs has been rearranged drastically from the original Broadway production; one song (“Like a God”) was dropped entirely because Universal’s executives, “feared that a number in which a Chinese American man compares himself to a god might offend audiences in the American South.” Whatever. The exclusion of “Like a God” does not affect the film much, as this adaptation of Flower Drum Song is a substantially different creature than the stage version. Owing to the performances, the two most notable songs of the musical carry over to the movie. The self-assured anthem “I Enjoy Being a Girl” (Nancy Kwan dubbed by B.J. Baker; Kwan did not protest the dubbing, despite the fact she could sing) may not contain Kwan’s singing voice, but it does boast her charismatic performance.  In the film’s second half, “You Are Beautiful” has Shigeta’s and Umeki’s acting complement the former’s tender singing. But most of the songs – including two of the dance numbers when not considering the choreography (“Grant Avenue” and “Fan Tan Fannie”) – fail to leave an impression. Having Juanita Hall sing “Chop Suey” (an American Chinese dish) underlines the irony of having a non-white actor play someone of Asian descent.

In the Rodgers and Hammerstein repertoire, Flower Drum Song is among the least performed of their musicals. A 2002 revival with copious revisions remains the only production outside the musical’s Broadway and West End debuts – Flower Drum Song has not been on tour since the 1960s. It may not compare well musically, lyrically, and dramatically to Carousel, The King and I, or South Pacific, but it is miles better than the likes of State Fair. But the original production of Flower Drum Song, as written, is now considered offensive to contemporary sensibilities. As the preeminent musical theater compositional duo of their day (I would argue that they are the best in the medium’s history), Rodgers and Hammerstein – through The King and I and South Pacific and Flower Drum Song – intended through their stage musicals to break down the racial barriers that they abhorred. All three of these musicals incorporate ethnic and racial stereotypes that can never be stricken entirely from their film adaptations and subsequent musical revivals. Rodgers and Hammerstein’s intentions are well-meaning in their advocacy for cross-racial understanding, but their messages are muddled. Their work reflects a lack of racial sensitivity, at best.

The 1961 film adaptation of Flower Drum Song is the first major Hollywood studio movie to have a significant number of Asian-Americans as credited cast members since Go for Broke! (1951; a WWII film dramatizing the service of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team). Flower Drum Song ups the ante over Go for Broke! as it has an almost all-Asian cast – a feat not replicated again until The Joy Luck Club (1993) and then Crazy Rich Asians (2018). The environment in 1950s and ‘60s Hollywood excluded Asian-Americans in front of and behind the camera, so I can understand why there are only two films from that era with a majority-Asian cast. But I grade on a temporal curve. There is no excuse in modern Hollywood for the twenty-five-year separation between almost all-Asian casts. Are we to expect that the only Hollywood movies with nearly all-Asian casts/majority Asian casts in the future will be the sequels to Crazy Rich Asians?

For the longest time, Flower Drum Song was the one major Rodgers and Hammerstein musical I knew least about. I suspect, of the duo’s musicals that have been revived, it is the one in their repertoire that even self-professed theater buffs are least aware of. Being the only Rodgers and Hammerstein musical not distributed by 20th Century Fox does not help. Nor does the fact that its last home media release was on DVD in the 2000s. In 2008, Henry Koster’s Flower Drum Song was inducted into the Library of Congress’ National Film Registry. That honor marks the film as integral to the history of American cinema. As the constant writing of American cinematic history continues, as audiences become attuned to the history of non-white individuals in Hollywood, perhaps more people will see the importance of this movie. What would have happened if James Shigeta, Nancy Kwan, Miyoshi Umeki, Jack Soo, and their other co-stars were offered the same quality of opportunities of their white colleagues? We will never know. But Flower Drum Song can help the viewer envision the answer.

My rating: 7/10

^ Based on my personal imdb rating. Half-points are always rounded down. My interpretation of that ratings system can be found in the “Ratings system” page on my blog (as of July 1, 2020, tumblr is not permitting certain posts with links to appear on tag pages, so I cannot provide the URL).

For more of my reviews tagged “My Movie Odyssey”, check out the tag of the same name on my blog.

* My sister will tell you that she does not believe that anyone in this film’s love polygon has a genuine mutual love. I agree. Mei Li’s love for Wang Ta appears genuine, but that is the extent of it.

[sinanmurad]

Film evaluation: Hide your children! 'Icy 2' is below, as well as the songs are superb!|ABS-CBN News

Your favored personalities are back in 'Frozen 2'

MANILA-- We came late to the "Frozen" bandwagon.

In December 2013, two weeks after the flick opened in Philippine theater, I brought my kids to the local Robinsons Shopping center and obtained tickets to "Frozen." Got treats, aligned, took our seats, listened to the Sami shouting the "Vuelie" introductory. And also was transfixed.

It's challenging to explain simply how seismic Disney's "Frozen" is to a family members with girls. I have 2, and also both were at an age when Disney musicals were life itself. Both acted out their preferred components, both memorized their favorite songs, both ruptured out vocal singing way also many times until I ultimately banned "Allow It Go" in the home. ("No, young woman, you can not turn away and also pound the door.")

"Icy" release a lot of Disney tropes, launched a thousand memes as well as made children enjoy a buck-toothed snowman that wished for summer season. Years later on, just "The Greatest Showman's" tracks would certainly come close to matching the ubiquity of Robert Lopez and also Kristen Anderson-Lopez's songs in the home.

I applauded the message: below was a Disney film that had not one yet two female leads, that didn't await the males to conserve them, that stated "Hey, having a sister is kinda cool" which true love might come from shocking areas. When "Frozen" damaged $1 billion in the box workplace, a follow up was unavoidable.

Enjoy extra in iWant or TFC.tv

And also below it is. Adjustment is a major style in "Icy 2"-- as well as it shows quickly.

When last we saw them, Elsa as well as Anna had actually beat the usurper Hans while additionally assisting Elsa manage her power to regulate the temperature level. This moment, the siblings have actually grown closer together while managing the events of Arendelle. Kristoff, Anna's knight in leather, waits on the perfect timing to propose. Olaf the snowman is comfy even in warmer weather yet has also developed, his asides will certainly amuse the older crowd that might have obtained tired of his silliness in the first journey.

Elsa maintains hearing a voice calling out to her, reminding her of her father's tale of the enchanted woodland of Ahtohallan where the aboriginal Northuldra people live. When catastrophe hits Arendelle, it depends on these 4 good friends plus Kristoff's reindeer, Sven, to go on another adventure to locate the fact concerning Elsa's powers.

There's not a great deal of story in "Frozen 2" as well as the tale sags right at the first-hour mark however the animation and also the songs more than make up for the looseness of the story.

And also oh the computer animation. "Frozen 2" is simply next-level stuff-- vibrant, fresh as well as jaw-dropping. A slow frying pan of the splendor of Arendelle in autumn crams in so much information that you intend to just delve into the display and live there. Some of the lights impacts with Elsa's powers and also the gnomes' gems just draw the eyes in, you can't avert.

One scene between Elsa and also a rainy water spirit is so elegant, stunning and magnificently fierce that I desired it to simply duplicate over and over. The water animal, called a nokk, is strong, untamed, beautiful-- much like the movie's very own weave.

"Frozen" lives and dies by its soundtrack, and it's right here that the flick truly radiates. Among the very first tracks, "Some Things Never Ever Change," is a bouncy crowd-pleaser that reestablishes the main cast before it all goes dark.

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Instead of "Let It Go", we obtain "Into the Unidentified"-- a paean to taking one more leap of faith after the last adventure nearly killed you. There are some tasty high notes in this track and also Idina Menzel (Elsa) simply powers through them, with some added ethereal singing by Norwegian pop artist Aurora.

For my cash though, Panic! At The Nightclub's version of the very same tune, which gets on the soundtrack, plays even better-- gutsier, fiercer-- a singing high-wire act that shows a remarkable range for lead vocalist Brendon Urie.

Enjoy more in iWant or TFC.tv

See extra in iWant or TFC.tv

Josh Gad as Olaf obtains an additional opportunity to amuse with the song "When I am Older," while Jonathan Groff (Kristoff) ultimately obtains his own track with "Lost In The Woods." The last track is quite uncomplicated however is a hoot in the movie, anticipate that a person to go on repeat when the video hits YouTube.

Enjoy extra in iWant or TFC.tv

View much more in iWant or TFC.tv

"Show Yourself," sung by Menzel and also Evan Rachel Timber, is not as showy as "Into the Unknown" yet is a lovelier pay attention the second time around. If "Into the Unidentified" is a song that presses past one's doubts, "Program Yourself" is a surrender to life's responses-- no issue how agonizing.

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Surprisingly, one song that I was so expecting after hearing it on YouTube didn't even make it right into the film. "Get This Right" is a fun duet in between Kristoff and Anna (Kristen Bell), as well as works as a counterpoint to the just as enjoyable "Love is an Open Door" in the initial motion picture. The marriage proposal is simply icing on the cake, regrettable we'll never ever reach see it in animated form.

Watch a lot more in iWant or TFC.tv

What's the verdict? Set expectations to stun but look out for those gorgeous visuals as well as the ko, definitely superb songs. Disney's "Icy 2" proves the initial movie's extraordinary success is no fluke. We may not always obtain what we want yet our love for "Icy" as well as its follow up is permanent.

This content was originally published here.

[overthinkingkdrama]

Exit Rave: Life on Mars

Story: Remake of the BBC drama of the same name, Life on Mars is the story of a modern day detective and forensics expert, Han Tae Joo, who gets swept up in a perilous case and winds up shot and knocked unconscious. When he comes to he find that he’s time slipped into a parallel life in 1988. Or has he? It’s also possible that he’s in a coma fighting for his life and everything and everyone around him are just delusions produced by his fevered mind. He’s not really sure which it is, but the only way to stay alive seems to be adapting to these unusual circumstances, and perhaps unwinding a mystery in his own past in the process.

First Male Lead: I can never decided if I prefer loud, comedic Jung Kyung Ho or if I prefer intense, serious Jung Kyung Ho. Whichever one I get I always find myself thinking, “This is it. This is him at his best.” Perhaps that’s just the sign of a great actor. I loved him in this drama, and I felt like he was absolutely born to play a character like Tae Joo. Without him I don’t think the drama would have been nearly as good. He strikes the perfect balance between a generally stoic and competent detective who’s just trying to keep his head down and get a job done, and a man who feels like he’s walking through a dream, thrust into a bizarre and unfamiliar landscape, questioning everything including the existence of the people around him and his own sanity.

First Female Lead: I don’t think I’ve ever consciously watched something with with Go Ah Sung before, movie or drama. Which came as a surprise to me when I started looking through her filmography because I think I’ve consistently confused her with Chun Woo Hee. This drama and her role as Officer Yoon Na Young made me feel like this has been a huge oversight on my part. I liked how much room this drama gave her to be a competent and skilled officer while also not shying away from giving her a complex emotional life. Even at times when she was damseled by the plot, she never became a rag doll without agency. I liked her so much I’ll admit that some of the severe, albeit era appropriate, sexism directed at her throughout the drama was a little hard to swallow. If I have one complaint, it’s simply that I wish there was more of her.

Second Male Lead: 2018 has forced me to develop an opinion on Park Sung Woong. Before this year he wasn’t really an actor I paid a lot of attention to, at best he was a face I recognized. I’ve now watched three of his movies and two dramas where he’s in the main cast, and I have to say the man has impressed me. With his range and variety of roles if nothing else. While I did eventually warm up to him in LoM, I will admit Dong Cheol was a difficult character for me. He’s loud and obnoxious, like a bull in a china shop. He’s convinced that he’s on the right side and he’s willing to do just about anything to forward his agenda, be it manipulation of evidence or police brutality. He’s an asshole with a badge, and that’s a terrifying combination. Even though I didn’t think it was possible, by the end of the drama I genuinely cared about the guy, and felt like I’d started to understand him a little bit. Full credit to the writer and the actor for somehow pulling that off.

Supporting Cast: This drama is pretty male driven, and while there is something of a second female lead played by Jeon Hye Bin, she’s not present enough in the story to really warrant a whole section in this review. Comparable to Signal or a handful of other really good police dramas, some of the strongest performances in this drama are from characters who only show up in a handful of episodes. The rest of the squad, like Dong Cheol, took a while to grow on me, but I managed to be personally invested in at least one arc for each character. There’s a handful of characters, like the one played by Jun Ho Suk, who are especially excellent but I can’t go into detail about their performances because it would take me into spoiler territory. Suffice to say the whole cast is fantastic.

Feels: Most of my issues with this drama are so minor that they feel like quibbles. For instance, the fake blood looked like shit. Like someone spilled red wine on their shirt. Tae Joo faints so much it’s almost like a running gag and there’s an over abundance of dolly zooms. The most significant complaint I can really come up with is in regard to the police brutality stuff--I realize this element is also largely era appropriate--which at times feels a little too gleeful. Some of it is just on that borderline. Like we’re no longer critiquing something or pointing out how bad things used to be, we’re actively romanticizing the era when a police officer could beat a suspect to elicit a confession with impunity. If you’re sensitive to that kind of stuff, this may very well not but the drama for you. Fair warning.

The thing that this drama really nails is mood and tone. I’ve never seen the original British drama, and was only vaguely aware of it going in to this. I expected the Korean Life on Mars to be Tunnel in reverse, with only the vague hope that the execution would be a little better. God, that expectation doesn’t do this drama justice at all. I worried that after the first few episodes it would fall into the usual groove of a period piece police procedural. To my delight, that never happened. The drama never lost it’s surreal tone, even through the weekly cases it never lost that bizarre dreamlike quality, and managed to up the ante week to week. It was quite impressive. While there is humor here, the cases it covers are exceptionally dark, even frightening and sometimes unexpectedly thoughtful. I also felt the drama was exceptionally well paced. I loved the way it steadily built suspense until it came to a (for me) satisfying conclusion. 

Would I recommend Life on Mars? Absolutely. This is definitely one of the better things of its genre that I’ve watched. The tone and style suited my tastes just wonderfully. It deserves it’s place along with Signal as one of the best fantasy thrillers out there.

[hoseokwrite-a]

Soul Eater AU muses w @nillilimambos <3

Anchalee ‘Angel’ Apichai

Age: 17 Grade: Freshman Position: Switch ( Meister & Weapon ) Weapon Type: Giant Ring Blade/Chakram ( ex. Tira’s ring from Soul Caliber ) Partner: Kim Soonja Designated Trope: Soulmates; Innocent Beans

Angel and her childhood best friend Soonja are in sync so much so that they’re both compatible as weapon AND meister. Whatever the situation calls for, they work together flawlessly together. Angel is sweet and pure and likes to see the good in everyone and everything, but when it comes to combat she’s pretty ruthless, doing anything possible to win or end the fight as quick as possible.

Kim ‘DJ’ Deokjoo

Age: 22 Grade: Senior ( she’s a good, talented noodle ) Position: Weapon Weapon Type: Gatling style Machine Gun Partner: Sung Hyorin

DJ is quiet and really a bookworm, but somehow her and Hyorin’s wavelengths match up. She had many meisters ( or attempted ones ) in her childhood, but she never felt right in anyone else’s hands until Hyorin. 

Oh ‘Lucky’ Hara

Age: 28 Grade: Senior Position: Meister Partner: Kyung Hyejoo Designated Trope: Tol and Smol

Standing at a mere 5 foot 2 and weighing 98 lbs (  44 kg ), no one would expect her to be such a powerful wielder. Her weapon is almost as long/tall as she is and she wields it with expert precision. Hyejoo and Lucky’s compatibility is uncanny and undoubtedly one of the most powerful in the school. While often flirtatious and bubbly, Lucky’s personality can switch on the flip of a dime when needed, turning her energetic persona into a deadly swordsman. 

Harper Lee

Age: 20 Grade: Sophomore Position: Meister Partner: Lee Jisook Designated Trope: Happy Beans

Harper and Jisook are sweet as can be. They’re both childish souls and the easiest the friendliest pair at DWMA. Harper is energetic and positive, seeing the silver lining in any cloud. She’s talented in finesse and precision, making her and Jisook’s shuriken form a perfect combo.

Ahn Hongpil

Age: 23 Grade: Senior Position: Weapon Weapon Type: Mace Partner: Ahn Hongki (former); Bit Yeonhan Designated Trope: Twin Brothers

Hongpil is the type of boy you’d want to bring home to your mother. At least on the outside. He’s handsome and charming, oddly brilliant, and skilled as a weapon. He can easily adjust to whoever is wielding him, making him quite unique in that regard. While originally paired with his fraternal brother Hongki, the two brothers took it upon themselves to aid the feuding Bit twins and pairing with them respectively instead.

Hwan Hyerin

Age: 30 Grade: Sophomore Position: Weapon Weapon Type: Chainsaw Partner: Jang Yikyung Designated Trope: Opposites Attract

From first glance, one would think Hyerin is cold and calculating. She’s quiet and watches everything. Observant and aloof, she notices everything, sees, hears, knows everything. Her age often makes her more intimidating to younger students as well, but deep down she’s just a soft girl trying to fit in. It took her longer than most other weapons to find her match, but when she did there was no denying the chemistry between her and Yikyung. They fill in each other’s missing pieces and they complete each other, making them a powerful duo and practically unstoppable.

Jung Jinae

Age: 22 Grade: Junior Position: Weapon Weapon Type: Scissor Blade Partner: Han Bora, Jung Jinhee Designated Trope: Twins; Trio

Jinae and her twin sister Jinhee are a rarity in many ways. They’re one of the few trios enrolled in DWMA, and they are the only pair of weapons that can be used together and separately, making them universal and unbelievably unique. Jinae is friendly and caring, always willing to lend a helping hand when needed. That being said, she would die for her sister. If the choice arose to sacrifice her life to save her twin, she’d do it without a second thought. Along with their meister Bora, the trio is a true spectacle, not only for their peculiarities but for their sheer destructive power in combat.

Bit Jinhan

Age: 23 Grade: Senior Position: Weapon Weapon Type: Double-ended Kusarigama Partner: Bit Yeonhan (former); Ahn Hongki Designated Trope: Sibling Rivalry

With a name meaning Darkness, Jinhan falls under the aesthetic of her name perfectly. Always adorned with some sort of black apparel and matching raven locks, she’s clearly the ‘evil’ twin. While her twin sister is all about following rules and being a good student, Jinhan would rather be strong at any cost. Her and her sister together would be an unstoppable pair, but their individual differences make it near impossible for them to sync wavelengths, and therefore they are each paired with others. Her weapon form is as brutal as her human one, representing a double-headed scythe attached to a chain. Se’s sleek and deadly, but there’s an underlying softness for her sister that she’d never allow to show in front of others.

Watanabe Kimi

Age: 20 Grade: Sophomore Position: Meister Partner: Roxanne Young

Shy, intelligent, prude. These words could all accurately describe Kimi. As a stark contrast to her weapon, Kimi is conservative and priggish in her everyday life. In school, she’s a goody-goody, always passing her classes with top scores and never missing a beat. On the field though, she’s different. Where as she’s confident in her scholarly abilities, she tends to be less so when it comes to fighting. That’s why Roxi is a perfect opposite. Where Kimi is shy and complacent, Roxi is confident and dominating, able to make anyone quiver in her wake-- including Kimi. While they aren’t as in sync as the other pair in the school, they have incredible potential.

Chalita ‘Lita’ Umjai

Age: 23 Grade: Sophomore Position: Weapon Weapon Type: Tank/Gundam type shit tbh Partner: Moon Inhye

Lita is tough and feisty. Inhye is prissy and posh. The two of them are nothing alike from an outsiders point of view, and that’s what makes them special. Their personalities are polar opposites, but when paired together in combat, their souls are aligned in a way that rules out any doubts. Lita is special in the fact that she is capable of half-transformation. She can transform into a full-size tank ( which is her main weapon form ), but she’s also able to become a mobile arsenal, perfectly sized to perch on Inhye’s back for quick combat. 

Natalie Seo

Age: 22 Grade: Junior Position: Weapon Weapon Type: Killer Parasol (shield/weapon combo) Partner: Yoon Yikyung Designated Trope: Petty & Pretty

Growing up wealthy has its advantages, and Natalie is no exception. She’s beautiful and well-dressed, as is her partner. The two girls are perfectly adept for sneak attacks and undercover watches due to Natalie’s weapon form. Able to camouflage herself as a regular yet stylish umbrella, the pair can blend in easily with any scene. When ready to duel, she is a powerful combo weapon, a shield when opened and a spear-like sword when closed.

Shim Sona

Age: 20 Grade: Junior Position: Weapon Weapon Type: Bow and Arrow Partner: Dylan Kwon Designated Trope: Opposites Attract

Sona is practically Dylan’s shadow. Wherever Dylan is, Sona’s sure to follow. It’s no surprise they’re paired together and no one could even imagine one without the other. While Dylan prefers her leather jackets and sharp glares, Sona is all about smiles and shooting finger hearts at passerby’s. When activated, Sona becomes a long-ranged bow, reminiscent of Cupid’s Bow and Arrow. Whether in weapon form or human form, she’s sure to strike you in the heart with her adorable nature.

[whispersatdawn]

A Flower’s Path | Pt. 2

GIF Credit to: ygo-gx​

Pt. 1 | Pt. 3

Pairing: Ban Ryu (Do Ji Han) X Reader

Genre: angst, coming-of-age, slight!romance

Word Count: 2,719

Request: Hi! For the Hwarang scenarios, what about one where you are a great enough fighter that you are asked to be the ONLY female hwarang (but against your will). Once inside, Ban Ryu is constantly complaining about how you shouldn’t be there and how it’s a disgrace for a woman to be in the Hwarang house. The two of you keep bashing heads bc even though you didn’t want to be there, you weren’t going to take that from him. Once the princess gets there she gets jealous that most of the hwarang gets close with the female hwarang and tries to get rid of her. - @starbooks13

Ban Ryu’s irritation resonated through the whole room, and it felt like the temperature dropped. The frigid air almost matched the iciness in his eyes. Your hands tightened by your side. You did not like the way he spoke about you nor were you going to allow those words to leave his mouth again. “If one is able to improve Hwarang, then I am willing to bend the rules a little, whether that help be a man or a woman, Ban Ryu,” Master Wi Hwa said. “It is no different than allowing a half-blood like Sun Woo or one of royal blood like you in this household. None of those things will matter here. As for the upset officials, I cannot help with what their sons lacked. (Y/N) will be staying as the queen ordered.”

“You must be intimidated.”

Hearing your voice, the other Hwarangs turned to you, eyes wide. Ban Ryu narrowed his eyes. “What?” 

“Doesn’t Park Young Sil despise Her Majesty? So, why would he have his adoptive son join Hwarang unless there was an ulterior motive? Is there? Don’t think that I am not aware of your stance on the formation of Hwarang either, Ban Ryu. If you don’t like such idea, what bothers you so much about me being here then? Other than me being a lady.”

You crossed your arms, waiting for a counterargument. Ban Ryu’s jaw clenched, and his brows furrowed. He started to open his mouth again to bite back when Master Wi Hwa immediately cut off the quarrel. “Enough. Both of you,” he ordered sternly. The chief instructor glanced over at you. “Go see Miss Ah Ro for your uniform right now and return for training.”

You were the first one to end the glaring competition between you and the other angry royal blood, knowing that your father wouldn’t be happy if he was to hear about your attempt to kill a member of Hwarang on your first day. “I shall meet with Miss Ah Ro,” you answered. You walked through the group of males, and their eyes continued to follow you. On your way out, you passed by Ban Ryu, but not without hearing him slip a quick murmur.

“Wench.”

As soon as you stepped outside of the lesson room, you let out a loud annoyed sigh, walking to the physician’s room. “First day here and I’ve already been targeted by Ban Ryu, that jerk. I should just cut off his tongue so that he can’t say anything else. Ugh! Father, I don’t think I can do this.”

Maybe if you gave up fighting and married instead, you wouldn’t have to stay. No. Fighting was something you excelled at. Your father wanted you to use those skills for a bigger purpose. He would be so proud. Plus, if you decide to just leave, that would definitely feed Ban Ryu’s satisfaction. You’d rather die than give him that.

Landing yourself in front of what you figured to be the physician’s room, you slowly opened up the door. “Miss... Ah Ro?” When she heard your voice, Ah Ro turned to you and hurried to stand.

“Miss (Y/N)! It's been a while since we’ve last seen each other!” she exclaimed with a smile. “I was told that you would be coming to see me. Please come in.”

You smiled back and stepped into the room. You were acquainted to Ah Ro because of her well-known father from the village. Even though you had your own family physician, sometimes you preferred to see the best physician instead. During those visits, Ah Ro would occasionally be there as well, and the two of you exchanged few words.

“I am both surprised and in awe that you have chosen to become a Hwarang, Miss (Y/N). My brother told me that a woman was joining.”

“Your brother?” you asked, puzzled. Ah Ro has never mentioned a brother. You were so sure you’ve never seen anyone else besides Ah Ro and her father live together.

“Ah, yes. It is... quite a long story. I have found my long lost brother,” she said, a sincere smile appearing on her face. “His name is Sun Woo. I think-”

“The half-blood. I remember Master Wi Hwa mentioning him.”

Ah Ro nodded her head. “I hope you are able to assist him while you’re here, Miss (Y/N). My brother is always doing his own things that it can get him in trouble. He does before he thinks. He doesn’t have the best view on royal bloods, but he will definitely warm up to those he grows to care for.”

“Duly noted.”

“I am delighted that there is another lady here in the Hwarang House with me. I hope we become closer.” Ah Ro reached for something on the table, and when she held it up, you realized it was your uniform. The uniform looked similar to the male’s with a few adjustments. Instead of it being blue on the side with purple accents, yours was switched. You actually liked it.

You took the uniform from Ah Ro. “I am just as delighted that you’re here, too,” you told Ah Ro, face lighting up. “At least there’s someone here who hasn’t given me such a hard time.”

“Has someone already done so?” Ah Ro inquired.

“Yes.” A very clear image appeared in your mind. “But it’s not something I can’t handle so I am not worried. Thank you for the uniform, Ah Ro.”

“Good luck, Miss (Y/N)!”

Once you changed into your new attire and felt the new fabric on your skin, that was when your title of a “Hwarang” seemed official. The uniform itself was a display of what you stood for to everyone else, but what exactly was its meaning? Were you really a protector for the people? Or just a pawn for the queen?  “Hwarang,” you whispered to yourself. Even the name on your tongue carried quite some weight.

You gathered all of you hair to tie into a neat ponytail before heading back outside to the training area as asked. Even though you didn’t want to admit it, the number of males around intimidated you. There was not a single person that you considered yourself close with. You knew most of the family they came from, but to answer about their personal lives would be quite difficult. Scanning the group, you tried to find at least one person to stand next to.

Just then, there was a small tap on your shoulder and a voice that called your name, “(Y/N).” You turned around to find Soo Ho.

“Oh, Soo Ho!” you replied, letting out a small gasp of surprise. You had no idea he would approach you. “I haven’t seen you since you joined the group. It is nice to see you again. My father kept going on how I should stick with you once I got in here, haha.”

Soo Ho chuckled. “Is that so? My father also told me that I should help you as much as I can with your first few days here. I doubt you’ll need my help though. Still, I am here if you need anything. Come on, I’ll take you to some of the other people that I'm close to here.”

You followed behind Soo Ho until he stopped in front of his friends. “(Y/N), I’m sure you know some of them already,” Soo Ho said.

Looking around, you nodded.

“Wow, you look really cool, (Y/N)!” Han Sung exclaimed. “You already fit right in with us! Don’t you think so Yeo Wool?” Yeo Wool, who was standing right next to Han Sung, nodded his head in approval.

The compliment made your cheeks flush a little. “Thank you,” you said before turning to face the fighting equipment. “So, how does training work around here? Do we just pick up a weapon and find someone to fight?”

“Sounds like someone’s a little eager for combat,” Ji Dwi said, a look of amusement in his eyes. “That usually is it, but the instructor usually tells us what we’ll be doing until dinner. What? Are you a little fired up from your little argument a while ago?”

You rolled your eyes, groaning. “Please don’t remind me.”

“I bet money that (Y/N) will win if she actually fights with Ban Ryu. I’ve seen her before. I’m glad she put that jerk in his spot today,” Soo Ho said confidently.

You couldn’t help but laugh until you felt a rough bump against your shoulder, pushing your body back. The laugh immediately stopped, and you shot a glare at the culprit. “Speak of the devil,” you muttered under your breath.

After taking a deep breath, you tried your best to remain calm. “You should really watch where you’re going,” you told Ban Ryu.

“You should really watch where you’re standing, princess” he said in retaliation. “Like I said, if you can’t handle what goes on here, it’s not the place for you.” Ban Ryu proceeded to walk away, standing a few feet in front of you.

In your head, you cursed him many times. You couldn’t understand how mighty he walked around when words like that left his mouth. “I really hate him,” Han Sung huffed, crossing his arms. You agreed.

A loud gong rang out. You straightened up at the sound, signaling for attention and watched the instructor walk out. “Today, we shall practice with knives. I’ll teach you the basics in how to avoid a knife as well as how to fight without a weapon when you’re up against an opponent with a knife. Afterwards, you will take turns practicing with a partner. Do well and we’ll finish early.”

Partner, you thought to yourself. Anyone but him, please.

Your faith in the heavens became stronger. You ended up pairing with Ah Ro’s brother during practice. While you both went over the moves, you caught some ill-mannered guys loudly talking about how you and Sun Woo were great matches with each other.

“Isn’t (Y/N) great at fighting though?”

“Come on. How great can she be? Probably good for a girl but she’s nothing compared to us. Then there’s Sun Woo. He can barely fight.”

You wanted so bad to talk back, but you didn’t want them to ruin training time for you at all. Maybe there’ll be a day for you to teach them a lesson. “Don’t worry about them,” Sun Woo said as he continued to dodge your attacks.

You swiped your knife to the half blood’s left, hitting air when he moved away. “I’m not worried about them,” you promised. “You shouldn’t be either. Focus on my moves.”

“I don’t wanna sound rude,” Sun Woo said, dodging another of your strikes, “but are you really good at fighting? I mean, you must be since the queen brought you in. Everyone is saying something, but I haven’t seen it for myself yet. I’m quite curious.”

You smirked. The sun was beating down in the late afternoon. You noticed the sweat on Sun Woo’s face. He was breathing heavily as he tried to keep up. “You wanna know a secret, Sun Woo?”

“What?”

“I’m going easy on you.”

“What?! This is you going easy on me?!”

A little more than a week in the Hwarang House later, you finally started to get the hang of things. You would eat meals with Soo Ho, Ji Dwi, Han Sung, Yeo Wool and Sun Woo. During the break times, you would sometime go visit Ah Ro. Training was still your favorite time of the day. The insults lessened when the instructor started one-on-one sparring, and you were up against the fools who spoke badly about you, putting them in their place. Having been humiliated, they didn’t say anything bad to you anymore.

Ban Ryu still took jibes at you whenever he found a chance, and you would always counter. Even Master Wi Hwa was getting tired of the altercations. A few days ago, both of you had to go in town to retrieve some medicine for Ah Ro while she tended an injured Hwarang. Master Wi Hwa thought it would help the two of you reconcile, but you two clashed walking all the way back. Therefore, Master Wi Hwa pledged to never allow the both of you to go out in public together ever again.

After training for the day, you made your way to the bathhouse. While the rest of the Hwarangs were assigned to showers after dinner, yours was before. You hated sweat sticking onto you while you ate. The stench along with it wasn’t pleasant, either. You didn’t know how the men did it. You soon found the doors to the bathhouse and pushed it open. “Hello?” you called to make sure the room was empty. When no response returned, you closed the doors behind you and undressed.

Warm waters ran down from your hair all the way to your toes. Stress went away, and you let out a long sigh. You couldn’t wait to visit home in a few days. Father would most likely want updates, and you wanted to let Soonja know how you were managing, too.

You were letting the water wash all of the soap suds away on your body when you thought you heard footsteps from outside of the bathhouse. Wiping the water from your eyes and lowering the strength of the shower head, you stopped to listen to the noise outside.

As you figured, they were indeed footsteps. “What in the world?” you said to yourself. No one was allowed to be around the bathhouse at this time except for you. You froze, suddenly realizing that anyone could be outside right now. You looked down at your naked body, a million thoughts running through your head. The showers had covers on both sides of you, so whoever walked in wouldn’t be able to see anything other than your face. Still, that didn’t help you feel any better.

Your eyes pinned to the door, waiting on any movement. The door started to shake a bit. Your felt your hairs stand up. I’m going to kill whoever walks in, you thought to yourself. You thought of yelling to let the person on the other side know that you were already occupying the bathhouse, but it was too late.

The door opened, and as soon as you met eyes with the intruder, you let out a scream. “Ahhh!”

“Ahhh!” A deep voice screamed back at you.

Ban Ryu quickly covered his eyes while you shielded your body with your arms. “What are you doing here?! You’re not supposed to be in here! Get out you pervert!”

You were pretty sure your face was red from embarrassment, and so was Ban Ryu’s because he immediately shut the door closed. You could hear his quick footsteps leaving the bathhouse. You turned off the water and hurried to dress back in your uniform.

It was time for dinner, and you made it to the entrance. You looked in the dining hall to find your group of friends. As your eyes searched, you found Ban Ryu sitting at a table with his group. At the same time, Ban Ryu glanced up and saw you standing outside the door. His eye widened, and he started to cough, surprising everyone at that table. “Ban Ryu, are you okay?! Drink some water.”

You felt your cheeks heat. You rushed inside to get your tray of food and sat at your table. The minute you sat down, you began to stuff yourself with spoonfuls of rice. “Slow down over there or you’ll choke,” Sun Woo deadpanned, looking over at you as he paced his own eating.

“(Y/N) is probably just hungry. She’s eating well, and I think she looks pretty like that.” Han Sung beamed. “(Y/N) looks like a cute chipmunk with her cheeks puffing out when she eats.”

“No... she’s definitely going to choke if she doesn’t slow down,” Ji Dwi said, agreeing with Sun Woo.

“Anyway, what do you think about the princess coming to see us?” Soo Ho brought up. “She’s coming in two days, and no one has any idea why.”

“It’s probably not a good one,” Ji Dwi mumbled.

Yeo Wool shook his head. “I, for one, actually think it may be interesting. What do you think, (Y/N)?”

[20playsin10days]

January 3rd- The Little Matchgirl (and Other Happier Tales) and Saint Joan

Hello again! Today was a good day, let’s dive right in shall we?

The Little Matchgirl (and other Happier Tales) written and adapted by Joel Horwood:

 This was our 4th and final “children/family” show. There was a small use of puppets but this was nothing like A Very Hungry Caterpillar. Knowing that The Little Matchgirl was written by Hans Christian Anderson makes that kind of obvious. The Little Matchgirl is a puppet who doesn’t speak except for every now and then would sing a few notes. She’s cold and alone but she runs into a traveling theatre troupe called the Shuteyes. Every time she lights a match, they tell her a story and she is warmed. The tell the story of Thumbalina, The Emperor’s New Clothes, and the Princess and the Pea before they finally get around to telling the Matchgirl’s story. A story that is really quite heartbreaking. I did not escape dry eyed. 

Each story was very well done and there was original music. I still wouldn’t call this a musical, but it was very close. The song that was basically the entirety of the Princess and the Pea story was very good- it’s repeating line and what I am calling it’s title was “Can You Still Call It Pain”

What I really liked about this show was that it wasn’t afraid to get dark (I mean with the little matchgirl how can you not get dark) with these fairytales. In Thumbalina, Thumbalina is practically sold to the Mole. In other adaptations I’ve seen, the Don Bluth in particular, this is kind of glossed over for how creepy it is. But in this show, the mole character was most definitely an abusive figure and Thumablina was scared and unhappy until she managed to escape from him with the swallow character. As Thumbalina became more and more confident in herself, the puppet got bigger until the actress- who was super tiny!- played Thumbalina without being a puppet. But over all this story seemed to be a commentary on unhealthy and abusive relationships, which I thought was interesting. 

The Princess and the Pea was also “darker” than usual. The prince decides on his own to test the princess with the pea, and the princess seems to be in genuine pain throughout the night. And when she learns that the prince put him through this pain, she leaves him. That’s not anything I’d ever seen done before.

This was in the Sam Wanamaker Theatre at the Globe. It’s designed to be an indoor version of the Globe to be used during winter months when the outdoor theatre is too risky. It’s only lit with candles and the songs sung served the same purpose that songs in Jacobean and Elizabethan times would have served.  I really liked it, even if the little matchgirl is one of the saddest children’s stories imaginable.

Moving on to

Saint Joan by Bernard Shaw:

(Side note before we start- did you know that George Bernard Shaw didn’t like to be called by three names? He much preferred Bernard Shaw.)

So I think this is what my father was most excited for me to see, and it did not disappoint. 

When Bernard Shaw wrote this play in the late 1920′s, he wanted to highlight the themes in Joan’s story that still rang true in modern times, so it was written in language that would have been used in the 20′s, not the 1400′s. And in that vein, this show was brought forward to our times. Everyone was in modern dress and instead of the Hundred Year War as the main conflict- it seemed to be stock markets and rival companies fighting. It was a very minor change, all the words were kept as Shaw wrote them, but the scenery and costumes were all modern- except for Joan, she was dressed as Joan of Arc would have been dressed. It was very, very striking. Like Leonardo DiCaprio’s Romeo and Juliet but less absurd. Joan was stunning. Bold and daring and 1000000% sure that what she was doing was right and just and ordained by God, but still a teenager who struggled with authority and thinking things through. And she was played by Gemma Arterton, one of my favorite actresses who has been a real talent and a bright spot in very bad movies (Hansel and Gretel Witch Hunters for one) Gemma was outstanding and a real delight to watch.

The set was one glass table with office chairs in front of a tv screen that had stock market reports and new stories that would blur into medieval paintings. The glass table looked like an alter before the show started- Joan was kneeling on it, praying in full armor as we all walking into the theatre. But for most of the show is was a table that would be found in board rooms and CEO’s offices. The table was on a spinning circle, and it spent most of the show spinning very very slowly as the scene went on. When ever Joan was on stage there was almost always a spotlight on her. And if she got particularly passionate, all the other lights would dim. It was visually very effective. 

Joan is so so sure of herself for all of the play its really remarkable- I wasn’t so sure of myself when I was 16. Which makes the scene where she realizes that she’s going to be burned at the stake even more heartbreaking and Gemma did it fantastically. She so quickly shifted from confidence to disbelief to despair and then right back to confidence when she retracts her confession. This was really an amazing story that was very gratifying to watch. 

I’m glad I watched this tonight instead of Mary Stuart first. I’ll get to see it tomorrow, but I am so glad that I saw Saint Joan today.

Well that’s all for now, I’ll write again tomorrow.

[jennypond58690-blog]

✅ Captive Through Worry Ten Tips For Female To Minimize Tension.

New York City (Advertising Board) - After marketing more than half a thousand duplicates in the top-Suplementy.Info United States from previous album Pa' l Mundo," reggaeton duo Wisin & Yandel had to somehow grow while protecting its own fan foundation. Even the best costly Ugly Stik Leopard Rods are actually within the 60-70 dollar array. Fantastic music is still out there, yet commercial broadcast does not play it, due to the fact that original information does not offer devices (which is actually why Two and also a Fifty Percent Male is actually the highest possible grossing television show of perpetuity). I prefer I had more space. there are actually a couple of traits I would certainly have wanted to expand. anyway, I still claim this is actually a music with a freedom in its technical punishment as well as being adopted and adjusted through people throughout the planet ... Would certainly be much more than delighted to add and also elaborate much more on these aspects raised in both posts a lot more completely, Eric. Pero cumplió como el artista que time, como el forjado de dos grupos que han dejado huella imborrable en la música navarra: Tijuana in Blue y Kojón Prieto y los Huajolotes. The uncanny talent of such musicians as well as performers has actually left behind a sign worldwide from popular music making surges also when they are no more. Tamil Nadu hands out range of Tamil music songs, classically cropland Job tunes in Tamil. You can easily consistently acknowledge a Sterling or a Music Man by unique design of the head-stock. Every generation from c and w has actually showcased brand new components that have assisted give birth to brand new types from country. That's likewise evidence that The Beatles didn't need electricity guitars to make a top quality song, a kept in mind variation in their music coming from many of their various other tunes prior to this factor. That's certainly not the worst point that can easily happen, but this could be scary to discover one dancing style when the songs is an entirely other style and also beat on the day. The latex cartoons wig is offered in reddish pigtails with yellow bows, pink pigtails along with blue bows or even blue pigtails along with red heads. Go through the transcript beneath to learn what he needs to claim about the progression from the popular music field as well as its location in our lives.

While the Aaron Tippin struck track became an urgent hit in the country music business, You've Come to Represent Something" also rapidly catapulted in to a track sung through as well as for America's armed forces in Desert Hurricane, with Tippin visiting the Mideast alongside comedian Bob Hope while engaging The United States's troops in the Basin War. The singers that provided the ideal kinds of charts acquired their songs participated in the method they wanted. I may truly merely share this by providing some instances of just what you ought to eavesdrop purchase to change your viewpoint on classical music. The faster you comprehend this, the faster you can act to take your songs job in the instructions you prefer.

[jesusvasser]

Great Watches for Car Guys and Gals

If you don’t already know what you’re looking for, picking out a new watch can be an overwhelming process. Just in time for the 2017 holiday season, here are 12 of our favorites, covering a wide range of brands and prices.

Todd Snyder + Timex Blackjack $138

This striking time-only watch is the latest collaboration between NYC menswear designer Todd Snyder and Timex. The two brands worked together previously on a handful of designs such as the simple Military Watch and the red and white Mod Watch, but this is probably our favorite out of the bunch. Inspired by “speed dials and roulette wheels, the Blackjack evokes the noir glamour of fast cars, hot tires, and midcentury Monaco casinos.” The stealthy PVD case is stark against the white, blue, and red dial, especially with the wickedly cool pseudo-spiral motif created by the concentric rings and blue inserts. Just like the fan-favorite Timex Weekender, a basic quartz movement keeps the Blackjack affordable, while the standard NATO-style nylon strap means this works perfectly with jeans and a T-shirt.

Chopard Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph $5,000 (est)

With the exception of the Rolex Daytona, it’s difficult to think of a particular watch so indelibly linked to an automotive event more than Chopard’s Mille Miglia special editions. Each year, Chopard teams up with the Mille Miglia to offer a special edition watch to participants, and it usually ends up as one of the coolest bits of memorabilia available from the storied race. For those who can’t swing the exorbitant cost of participation, Chopard will offer “civilian” variants at a later date. At this year’s Baselworld, the brand unveiled a new Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph inspired by past editions. Chopard managed to successfully incorporate its trademark tire-tread strap. It’s not quite as cool as a spot on the starting grid, but there are worse ways to daydream.

Perrelet Turbine Sung Kang $6,000 (est)

The Perrelet Turbine is one of the most intriguing watches available without a five-figure price tag. Inspired by early automatic movements developed by Abraham-Louis Perrelet in the 18th century, the Turbine family features a free-spinning bladed rotor above the fixed dial. It’s not functional—a traditional semi-circle rotor around back winds the mainspring—but it brings a sense of occasion to the simple act of checking the time. This is the Sung Kang special edition, named for the actor who rose to stardom as Han Lue in the “Fast and Furious” film franchise. The watch wears a number of automotive themes, including a stylistic tachometer on the fixed dial and a staggered 12-hour scale, designed for easier viewing when your hand is on the steering wheel.

Tissot Heritage 1948 Chronograph $1,400 (base price)

Want a vintage-styled chronograph but can’t spring for the $6,700 Zenith (right)? Be sure to check out Tissot’s new Heritage 1948 Chronograph. This white-dialed Tissot is a throwback to a chronograph pulled from the brand’s archives, packing plenty of historical design into an attractive 40-mm steel case. Underneath the traditional three-register dial spins a trusty ETA 2894-2 modular chronograph movement, a reliable workhorse that is found in everything from Chopards to TAG Heuers. The Heritage 1948 Chronograph is unabashedly old school, from the sculptural bombé lugs to the thin leaf-style hands. The watch arrives on a leather strap, but if you want to stay true to the vintage design, spring for the optional Milanese mesh bracelet. If you’re looking for pinpoint accuracy, the same design can be had with a COSC-certified variant of the ETA, capped at 8,888 units.

  Breitling Superocean Heritage II $4,080 (base price)

Breitling has quite a history when it comes to nautical and aeronautical endeavors, and the clean Superocean Heritage II is one of the best. This is one of Breitling’s classically inspired pieces, pulling cues from the original Superocean of the 1950s and 1960s. Unlike other heritage designs that ape the original watch, the Superocean wears influences from watches of yore rather than acting as a simple reissue of an old design. Underneath the steel case (available in either 42 or 46 mm) beats a Tudor-supplied movement, a new feature for 2017. It’s a tool watch but not one we’d be embarrassed to wear with a suit and tie. The Superocean comes in blue, black, a delicious bronze tone, or two-tone black with contrasting color.

Zenith Chronomaster Heritage 146 $6,700 (est)

Far too many modern chronographs have fallen into the trap of big, brash, and bold, eschewing simple, clean design for huge indices, oversized blocky cases, and extraordinarily busy dials. We’re pleased to see Zenith offer an effortlessly handsome chronograph in the form of the Chronomaster Heritage, especially with such a simple, unadorned design. Underneath the classically proportioned case, Zenith slotted in its famous El Primero movement, a high-beat 36,000 VpH unit that has provided the bedrock for the brand since the 1960s. This is one of the most versatile watches in this group. The Chronomaster looks just as sharp under the cuff of a suit as it does perched on the thin steering wheel of a Jaguar XK120.

Omega Speedmaster Racing Master Chronometer $8,450 (est)

The enduring Speedmaster is forever linked to its time on the lunar surface, but the chronograph began life in 1957 marketed toward drivers and race technicians. Ever since it cemented itself on the wrist of Apollo astronauts in the 1960s, the Speedmaster spawned an incredible amount of variants with different colors, complications, and designs. This orange-on-black Speedmaster Racing Master Chronometer was unveiled during last year’s Baselworld watch and jewelry show with a new name for 2017. This model is the new crown jewel of the Racing subfamily, packing some serious horological heat under the 44.25-mm case. This two-register chrono is home to Omega’s 9900 series movement, deemed accurate and exact enough to wear the Master Chronometer certification from the Swiss Federal Institute of Meteorology. If you’re not a fan of the colors, it’s offered in different liveries in steel and gold cases.

Bulova Moon Watch $550 (base price)

If you want to grab a watch inspired by one worn on the moon, the $5,000-odd entry cost for Omega’s Speedmaster can be a bit steep. Thankfully, Bulova also found its way to the moon in the early 1970s, and it recently released the chronograph following the original, real-deal moon-landing example’s sale earlier last year. Visually, it’s a close copy of the original with only minor variations. The biggest change is the addition of a high-beat quartz movement, a feature Bulova is known for. Some enthusiasts might decry the lack of a mechanical heart, but consider this: The reissue is accurate to just a few seconds every year, making the new watch far more accurate than any of the ones—Omegas included—that landed on Earth’s satellite.

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona $27,500 (base price)

In terms of evolution, Rolex likes to operate on timetables more geologic than seasonal. So, when arguably the world’s most famous watchmaker unveiled new Daytona variants at this year’s Baselworld, it was a surprise, to put it mildly. This is a followup to the wildly popular Daytona debut last year that included a new black Cerachrom ceramic bezel but adds in a new bracelet and case metal choice. In addition to steel, the ceramic bezel can be ordered on white, yellow, or rose gold, each wearing contrasting black subdials. What’s most surprising is that buyers are able to purchase a Rolex Daytona from the Bienne factory with Rolex’s Oysterflex bracelet, which is made of rubber. Prices for the new variants begin at $27,500 and climb from there.

Autodromo Group B Evoluzione $1,100

Creating an automotive-themed watch is easy; doing it well and tastefully is not. In that sense, Autodromo is the best in the business, seamlessly weaving cues from all eras of vintage cars and racers into its varied product lineup. Of all the unique designs in its stable, the wild Group B is a lightning strike of color and individuality, especially in the case of the Evoluzione. Pulling inspiration from the short-lived rally class of the same name, the Autodromo Group B Evoluzione builds on the already vibrant Group B and adds a specialized case composed of aerospace-grade aluminum. It’s powered by the same Miyota 9015 automatic movement that powers the regular watch, so it’s as rugged and reliable as it is striking to look at. If you like it as much as we do, get your order in soon. Production is limited to just 200 units per color.

TAG Heuer Autavia 02 $5,150 (base price)

In an unprecedented move, TAG Heuer opened the virtual doors to its design studio and asked fans to vote on the final design of a reissued Autavia. The online voting was done bracket style with head-to-head eliminations. After the digital dust settled, the Autavia ref. 2446 made famous by wrist time on racer Jochen Rindt took the laurels. This is more homage than full-bore reissue, considering the Autavia 02 features a fair bit of aesthetic differences from the older 2446. Most notably, it wears larger with a 42-mm case and thick, wide bezel. This is forgiven when you notice the incredibly cool classic “Heuer” script at 12 o’clock and take a peek under the hood at the beautiful and state-of-the-art Calibre 02 chronograph movement, a powerhouse that has been in development for quite a while.

BRM V12-44-MR-01/02 Martini Edition $8,500 (est)

We get it. You’re fed up with boring, bland vintage-inspired watches. You want something big, bold, and colorful. For those who prefer an uncorked big-block Top Fuel dragster to a buzzy Formula 1 car, BRM offers a large lineup of watches with effortlessly expressive designs. It’s hard to pick just one, but we’re going with the Martini Edition chronograph, the newest edition to the BRM family. Even from a distance, you won’t mistake the V12-44-MR-01/02 for anything else, thanks to liberal use of the blue, white, and red color scheme, with either a white or blue dial as the base. Inside the large steel 44-mm case ticks a trusty ETA Valjoux 7753 movement, so service and replacement parts won’t be too difficult. The Martini Edition is limited to just 150 of each color.

 The post Great Watches for Car Guys and Gals appeared first on Automobile Magazine.

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Great Watches for Car Guys and Gals

If you don’t already know what you’re looking for, picking out a new watch can be an overwhelming process. Just in time for the 2017 holiday season, here are 12 of our favorites, covering a wide range of brands and prices.

Todd Snyder + Timex Blackjack $138

This striking time-only watch is the latest collaboration between NYC menswear designer Todd Snyder and Timex. The two brands worked together previously on a handful of designs such as the simple Military Watch and the red and white Mod Watch, but this is probably our favorite out of the bunch. Inspired by “speed dials and roulette wheels, the Blackjack evokes the noir glamour of fast cars, hot tires, and midcentury Monaco casinos.” The stealthy PVD case is stark against the white, blue, and red dial, especially with the wickedly cool pseudo-spiral motif created by the concentric rings and blue inserts. Just like the fan-favorite Timex Weekender, a basic quartz movement keeps the Blackjack affordable, while the standard NATO-style nylon strap means this works perfectly with jeans and a T-shirt.

Chopard Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph $5,000 (est)

With the exception of the Rolex Daytona, it’s difficult to think of a particular watch so indelibly linked to an automotive event more than Chopard’s Mille Miglia special editions. Each year, Chopard teams up with the Mille Miglia to offer a special edition watch to participants, and it usually ends up as one of the coolest bits of memorabilia available from the storied race. For those who can’t swing the exorbitant cost of participation, Chopard will offer “civilian” variants at a later date. At this year’s Baselworld, the brand unveiled a new Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph inspired by past editions. Chopard managed to successfully incorporate its trademark tire-tread strap. It’s not quite as cool as a spot on the starting grid, but there are worse ways to daydream.

Perrelet Turbine Sung Kang $6,000 (est)

The Perrelet Turbine is one of the most intriguing watches available without a five-figure price tag. Inspired by early automatic movements developed by Abraham-Louis Perrelet in the 18th century, the Turbine family features a free-spinning bladed rotor above the fixed dial. It’s not functional—a traditional semi-circle rotor around back winds the mainspring—but it brings a sense of occasion to the simple act of checking the time. This is the Sung Kang special edition, named for the actor who rose to stardom as Han Lue in the “Fast and Furious” film franchise. The watch wears a number of automotive themes, including a stylistic tachometer on the fixed dial and a staggered 12-hour scale, designed for easier viewing when your hand is on the steering wheel.

Tissot Heritage 1948 Chronograph $1,400 (base price)

Want a vintage-styled chronograph but can’t spring for the $6,700 Zenith (right)? Be sure to check out Tissot’s new Heritage 1948 Chronograph. This white-dialed Tissot is a throwback to a chronograph pulled from the brand’s archives, packing plenty of historical design into an attractive 40-mm steel case. Underneath the traditional three-register dial spins a trusty ETA 2894-2 modular chronograph movement, a reliable workhorse that is found in everything from Chopards to TAG Heuers. The Heritage 1948 Chronograph is unabashedly old school, from the sculptural bombé lugs to the thin leaf-style hands. The watch arrives on a leather strap, but if you want to stay true to the vintage design, spring for the optional Milanese mesh bracelet. If you’re looking for pinpoint accuracy, the same design can be had with a COSC-certified variant of the ETA, capped at 8,888 units.

  Breitling Superocean Heritage II $4,080 (base price)

Breitling has quite a history when it comes to nautical and aeronautical endeavors, and the clean Superocean Heritage II is one of the best. This is one of Breitling’s classically inspired pieces, pulling cues from the original Superocean of the 1950s and 1960s. Unlike other heritage designs that ape the original watch, the Superocean wears influences from watches of yore rather than acting as a simple reissue of an old design. Underneath the steel case (available in either 42 or 46 mm) beats a Tudor-supplied movement, a new feature for 2017. It’s a tool watch but not one we’d be embarrassed to wear with a suit and tie. The Superocean comes in blue, black, a delicious bronze tone, or two-tone black with contrasting color.

Zenith Chronomaster Heritage 146 $6,700 (est)

Far too many modern chronographs have fallen into the trap of big, brash, and bold, eschewing simple, clean design for huge indices, oversized blocky cases, and extraordinarily busy dials. We’re pleased to see Zenith offer an effortlessly handsome chronograph in the form of the Chronomaster Heritage, especially with such a simple, unadorned design. Underneath the classically proportioned case, Zenith slotted in its famous El Primero movement, a high-beat 36,000 VpH unit that has provided the bedrock for the brand since the 1960s. This is one of the most versatile watches in this group. The Chronomaster looks just as sharp under the cuff of a suit as it does perched on the thin steering wheel of a Jaguar XK120.

Omega Speedmaster Racing Master Chronometer $8,450 (est)

The enduring Speedmaster is forever linked to its time on the lunar surface, but the chronograph began life in 1957 marketed toward drivers and race technicians. Ever since it cemented itself on the wrist of Apollo astronauts in the 1960s, the Speedmaster spawned an incredible amount of variants with different colors, complications, and designs. This orange-on-black Speedmaster Racing Master Chronometer was unveiled during last year’s Baselworld watch and jewelry show with a new name for 2017. This model is the new crown jewel of the Racing subfamily, packing some serious horological heat under the 44.25-mm case. This two-register chrono is home to Omega’s 9900 series movement, deemed accurate and exact enough to wear the Master Chronometer certification from the Swiss Federal Institute of Meteorology. If you’re not a fan of the colors, it’s offered in different liveries in steel and gold cases.

Bulova Moon Watch $550 (base price)

If you want to grab a watch inspired by one worn on the moon, the $5,000-odd entry cost for Omega’s Speedmaster can be a bit steep. Thankfully, Bulova also found its way to the moon in the early 1970s, and it recently released the chronograph following the original, real-deal moon-landing example’s sale earlier last year. Visually, it’s a close copy of the original with only minor variations. The biggest change is the addition of a high-beat quartz movement, a feature Bulova is known for. Some enthusiasts might decry the lack of a mechanical heart, but consider this: The reissue is accurate to just a few seconds every year, making the new watch far more accurate than any of the ones—Omegas included—that landed on Earth’s satellite.

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona $27,500 (base price)

In terms of evolution, Rolex likes to operate on timetables more geologic than seasonal. So, when arguably the world’s most famous watchmaker unveiled new Daytona variants at this year’s Baselworld, it was a surprise, to put it mildly. This is a followup to the wildly popular Daytona debut last year that included a new black Cerachrom ceramic bezel but adds in a new bracelet and case metal choice. In addition to steel, the ceramic bezel can be ordered on white, yellow, or rose gold, each wearing contrasting black subdials. What’s most surprising is that buyers are able to purchase a Rolex Daytona from the Bienne factory with Rolex’s Oysterflex bracelet, which is made of rubber. Prices for the new variants begin at $27,500 and climb from there.

Autodromo Group B Evoluzione $1,100

Creating an automotive-themed watch is easy; doing it well and tastefully is not. In that sense, Autodromo is the best in the business, seamlessly weaving cues from all eras of vintage cars and racers into its varied product lineup. Of all the unique designs in its stable, the wild Group B is a lightning strike of color and individuality, especially in the case of the Evoluzione. Pulling inspiration from the short-lived rally class of the same name, the Autodromo Group B Evoluzione builds on the already vibrant Group B and adds a specialized case composed of aerospace-grade aluminum. It’s powered by the same Miyota 9015 automatic movement that powers the regular watch, so it’s as rugged and reliable as it is striking to look at. If you like it as much as we do, get your order in soon. Production is limited to just 200 units per color.

TAG Heuer Autavia 02 $5,150 (base price)

In an unprecedented move, TAG Heuer opened the virtual doors to its design studio and asked fans to vote on the final design of a reissued Autavia. The online voting was done bracket style with head-to-head eliminations. After the digital dust settled, the Autavia ref. 2446 made famous by wrist time on racer Jochen Rindt took the laurels. This is more homage than full-bore reissue, considering the Autavia 02 features a fair bit of aesthetic differences from the older 2446. Most notably, it wears larger with a 42-mm case and thick, wide bezel. This is forgiven when you notice the incredibly cool classic “Heuer” script at 12 o’clock and take a peek under the hood at the beautiful and state-of-the-art Calibre 02 chronograph movement, a powerhouse that has been in development for quite a while.

BRM V12-44-MR-01/02 Martini Edition $8,500 (est)

We get it. You’re fed up with boring, bland vintage-inspired watches. You want something big, bold, and colorful. For those who prefer an uncorked big-block Top Fuel dragster to a buzzy Formula 1 car, BRM offers a large lineup of watches with effortlessly expressive designs. It’s hard to pick just one, but we’re going with the Martini Edition chronograph, the newest edition to the BRM family. Even from a distance, you won’t mistake the V12-44-MR-01/02 for anything else, thanks to liberal use of the blue, white, and red color scheme, with either a white or blue dial as the base. Inside the large steel 44-mm case ticks a trusty ETA Valjoux 7753 movement, so service and replacement parts won’t be too difficult. The Martini Edition is limited to just 150 of each color.

 The post Great Watches for Car Guys and Gals appeared first on Automobile Magazine.

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Great Watches for Car Guys and Gals

If you don’t already know what you’re looking for, picking out a new watch can be an overwhelming process. Just in time for the 2017 holiday season, here are 12 of our favorites, covering a wide range of brands and prices.

Todd Snyder + Timex Blackjack $138

This striking time-only watch is the latest collaboration between NYC menswear designer Todd Snyder and Timex. The two brands worked together previously on a handful of designs such as the simple Military Watch and the red and white Mod Watch, but this is probably our favorite out of the bunch. Inspired by “speed dials and roulette wheels, the Blackjack evokes the noir glamour of fast cars, hot tires, and midcentury Monaco casinos.” The stealthy PVD case is stark against the white, blue, and red dial, especially with the wickedly cool pseudo-spiral motif created by the concentric rings and blue inserts. Just like the fan-favorite Timex Weekender, a basic quartz movement keeps the Blackjack affordable, while the standard NATO-style nylon strap means this works perfectly with jeans and a T-shirt.

Chopard Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph $5,000 (est)

With the exception of the Rolex Daytona, it’s difficult to think of a particular watch so indelibly linked to an automotive event more than Chopard’s Mille Miglia special editions. Each year, Chopard teams up with the Mille Miglia to offer a special edition watch to participants, and it usually ends up as one of the coolest bits of memorabilia available from the storied race. For those who can’t swing the exorbitant cost of participation, Chopard will offer “civilian” variants at a later date. At this year’s Baselworld, the brand unveiled a new Mille Miglia Classic Chronograph inspired by past editions. Chopard managed to successfully incorporate its trademark tire-tread strap. It’s not quite as cool as a spot on the starting grid, but there are worse ways to daydream.

Perrelet Turbine Sung Kang $6,000 (est)

The Perrelet Turbine is one of the most intriguing watches available without a five-figure price tag. Inspired by early automatic movements developed by Abraham-Louis Perrelet in the 18th century, the Turbine family features a free-spinning bladed rotor above the fixed dial. It’s not functional—a traditional semi-circle rotor around back winds the mainspring—but it brings a sense of occasion to the simple act of checking the time. This is the Sung Kang special edition, named for the actor who rose to stardom as Han Lue in the “Fast and Furious” film franchise. The watch wears a number of automotive themes, including a stylistic tachometer on the fixed dial and a staggered 12-hour scale, designed for easier viewing when your hand is on the steering wheel.

Tissot Heritage 1948 Chronograph $1,400 (base price)

Want a vintage-styled chronograph but can’t spring for the $6,700 Zenith (right)? Be sure to check out Tissot’s new Heritage 1948 Chronograph. This white-dialed Tissot is a throwback to a chronograph pulled from the brand’s archives, packing plenty of historical design into an attractive 40-mm steel case. Underneath the traditional three-register dial spins a trusty ETA 2894-2 modular chronograph movement, a reliable workhorse that is found in everything from Chopards to TAG Heuers. The Heritage 1948 Chronograph is unabashedly old school, from the sculptural bombé lugs to the thin leaf-style hands. The watch arrives on a leather strap, but if you want to stay true to the vintage design, spring for the optional Milanese mesh bracelet. If you’re looking for pinpoint accuracy, the same design can be had with a COSC-certified variant of the ETA, capped at 8,888 units.

  Breitling Superocean Heritage II $4,080 (base price)

Breitling has quite a history when it comes to nautical and aeronautical endeavors, and the clean Superocean Heritage II is one of the best. This is one of Breitling’s classically inspired pieces, pulling cues from the original Superocean of the 1950s and 1960s. Unlike other heritage designs that ape the original watch, the Superocean wears influences from watches of yore rather than acting as a simple reissue of an old design. Underneath the steel case (available in either 42 or 46 mm) beats a Tudor-supplied movement, a new feature for 2017. It’s a tool watch but not one we’d be embarrassed to wear with a suit and tie. The Superocean comes in blue, black, a delicious bronze tone, or two-tone black with contrasting color.

Zenith Chronomaster Heritage 146 $6,700 (est)

Far too many modern chronographs have fallen into the trap of big, brash, and bold, eschewing simple, clean design for huge indices, oversized blocky cases, and extraordinarily busy dials. We’re pleased to see Zenith offer an effortlessly handsome chronograph in the form of the Chronomaster Heritage, especially with such a simple, unadorned design. Underneath the classically proportioned case, Zenith slotted in its famous El Primero movement, a high-beat 36,000 VpH unit that has provided the bedrock for the brand since the 1960s. This is one of the most versatile watches in this group. The Chronomaster looks just as sharp under the cuff of a suit as it does perched on the thin steering wheel of a Jaguar XK120.

Omega Speedmaster Racing Master Chronometer $8,450 (est)

The enduring Speedmaster is forever linked to its time on the lunar surface, but the chronograph began life in 1957 marketed toward drivers and race technicians. Ever since it cemented itself on the wrist of Apollo astronauts in the 1960s, the Speedmaster spawned an incredible amount of variants with different colors, complications, and designs. This orange-on-black Speedmaster Racing Master Chronometer was unveiled during last year’s Baselworld watch and jewelry show with a new name for 2017. This model is the new crown jewel of the Racing subfamily, packing some serious horological heat under the 44.25-mm case. This two-register chrono is home to Omega’s 9900 series movement, deemed accurate and exact enough to wear the Master Chronometer certification from the Swiss Federal Institute of Meteorology. If you’re not a fan of the colors, it’s offered in different liveries in steel and gold cases.

Bulova Moon Watch $550 (base price)

If you want to grab a watch inspired by one worn on the moon, the $5,000-odd entry cost for Omega’s Speedmaster can be a bit steep. Thankfully, Bulova also found its way to the moon in the early 1970s, and it recently released the chronograph following the original, real-deal moon-landing example’s sale earlier last year. Visually, it’s a close copy of the original with only minor variations. The biggest change is the addition of a high-beat quartz movement, a feature Bulova is known for. Some enthusiasts might decry the lack of a mechanical heart, but consider this: The reissue is accurate to just a few seconds every year, making the new watch far more accurate than any of the ones—Omegas included—that landed on Earth’s satellite.

Rolex Cosmograph Daytona $27,500 (base price)

In terms of evolution, Rolex likes to operate on timetables more geologic than seasonal. So, when arguably the world’s most famous watchmaker unveiled new Daytona variants at this year’s Baselworld, it was a surprise, to put it mildly. This is a followup to the wildly popular Daytona debut last year that included a new black Cerachrom ceramic bezel but adds in a new bracelet and case metal choice. In addition to steel, the ceramic bezel can be ordered on white, yellow, or rose gold, each wearing contrasting black subdials. What’s most surprising is that buyers are able to purchase a Rolex Daytona from the Bienne factory with Rolex’s Oysterflex bracelet, which is made of rubber. Prices for the new variants begin at $27,500 and climb from there.

Autodromo Group B Evoluzione $1,100

Creating an automotive-themed watch is easy; doing it well and tastefully is not. In that sense, Autodromo is the best in the business, seamlessly weaving cues from all eras of vintage cars and racers into its varied product lineup. Of all the unique designs in its stable, the wild Group B is a lightning strike of color and individuality, especially in the case of the Evoluzione. Pulling inspiration from the short-lived rally class of the same name, the Autodromo Group B Evoluzione builds on the already vibrant Group B and adds a specialized case composed of aerospace-grade aluminum. It’s powered by the same Miyota 9015 automatic movement that powers the regular watch, so it’s as rugged and reliable as it is striking to look at. If you like it as much as we do, get your order in soon. Production is limited to just 200 units per color.

TAG Heuer Autavia 02 $5,150 (base price)

In an unprecedented move, TAG Heuer opened the virtual doors to its design studio and asked fans to vote on the final design of a reissued Autavia. The online voting was done bracket style with head-to-head eliminations. After the digital dust settled, the Autavia ref. 2446 made famous by wrist time on racer Jochen Rindt took the laurels. This is more homage than full-bore reissue, considering the Autavia 02 features a fair bit of aesthetic differences from the older 2446. Most notably, it wears larger with a 42-mm case and thick, wide bezel. This is forgiven when you notice the incredibly cool classic “Heuer” script at 12 o’clock and take a peek under the hood at the beautiful and state-of-the-art Calibre 02 chronograph movement, a powerhouse that has been in development for quite a while.

BRM V12-44-MR-01/02 Martini Edition $8,500 (est)

We get it. You’re fed up with boring, bland vintage-inspired watches. You want something big, bold, and colorful. For those who prefer an uncorked big-block Top Fuel dragster to a buzzy Formula 1 car, BRM offers a large lineup of watches with effortlessly expressive designs. It’s hard to pick just one, but we’re going with the Martini Edition chronograph, the newest edition to the BRM family. Even from a distance, you won’t mistake the V12-44-MR-01/02 for anything else, thanks to liberal use of the blue, white, and red color scheme, with either a white or blue dial as the base. Inside the large steel 44-mm case ticks a trusty ETA Valjoux 7753 movement, so service and replacement parts won’t be too difficult. The Martini Edition is limited to just 150 of each color.

 The post Great Watches for Car Guys and Gals appeared first on Automobile Magazine.

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[cancersfakianakis1]

Phase II, multicentre, randomised trial of eribulin plus gemcitabine versus paclitaxel plus gemcitabine as first-line chemotherapy in patients with HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer

Publication date: November 2017 Source:European Journal of Cancer, Volume 86 Author(s): Yeon Hee Park, Seock-Ah Im, Sung-Bae Kim, Joo Hyuk Sohn, Keun Seok Lee, Yee Soo Chae, Ki Hyeong Lee, Jee Hyun Kim, Young-Hyuck Im, Ji-Yeon Kim, Tae-Yong Kim, Kyung-Hun Lee, Jin-Hee Ahn, Gun Min Kim, In Hae Park, Soo Jung Lee, Hye Sook Han, Se Hyun Kim, Kyung Hae Jung BackgroundPaclitaxel plus gemcitabine (PG) combination chemotherapy is a preferred chemotherapeutic regimen for patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Eribulin mesylate is a halichondrin non-taxane inhibitor of microtubule dynamics. A recent pooled analysis with eribulin showed improved overall survival (OS) in various MBC patient subgroups pretreated with anthracycline and taxane. Furthermore, eribulin may have less neurotoxicity than paclitaxel.Patients and methodsThis study was a prospective randomised phase II, open-label, two-arm, multicentre study comparing eribulin plus gemcitabine (EG) with PG chemotherapy as a first-line treatment for patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative MBC. We hypothesised that EG chemotherapy would not be inferior to PG chemotherapy. The primary end-point was progression-free survival (PFS), which was estimated to be 70% at 6 months for each arm. The secondary end-points were as follows: OS, neuropathic scale, toxicity and clinical benefit rate.ResultsA total of 118 patients (median age: 50, 24–66) were enrolled between March 2015 and March 2016 and were randomly assigned to PG (n = 59) or EG (n = 59) chemotherapy. The mean number of metastatic sites was 3 (range 1–8). The 6-month PFS rates for both arms were 72% for EG and 73% for PG (P = 0.457). There was no significant difference in OS between the two groups (not reached versus 21.2 months, P = 0.2234). The median number of chemotherapy cycles for both groups was 10 for EG and 8 for PG (range 2–32). Clinical benefit rates were 44% for EG and 49% for PG. Major toxicities were neutropenia and neurotoxicity. Grade II or above neurotoxicity was more common with PG than with EG (13.6% for EG versus 45.8% for PG, P < 0.0001).ConclusionEG chemotherapy had similar clinical benefits to PG chemotherapy in terms of PFS but less neurotoxicity.Trial registrationKCSG BR13-11; ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02263495. http://ift.tt/2AbaN0Y