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the-library-alcove · 17 days ago

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Someone asked for a Bingo Card of Hamasnik Thought-Terminating Clichés/Catechisms, and I ended up with so many that I needed to either make multiple bingo cards or just expand the size of the card to 7x7.

I started this weeks ago, and then the DC shooting and the Boulder firebombing happened, and it was disturbing watching people excuse those attacks with exactly what's on this card.

Explanations and discussion under the cut

First off, what are "Thought-terminating clichés" and catechisms?

A thought-terminating cliché is a canned phrase designed to make someone stop thinking or end an argument. They don't have to be, but when someone invokes them to justify bad logic or dismiss someone's objection to something, the term qualifies.

Catechisms are canned answers to specific questions; originally from religious instruction, the term has been expanded to include any form of route answer. Similar to a thought-terminating cliché, catechisms are great for shutting down critical thinking--you already have an answer, no further thought is required. In general, the distinction is that Catechisms are framed for specific arguments, while Thought-Terminating Clichés are more general.

The Bingo Card here is a compilation of the two categories as used by Hamasniks--that being Western Leftists who support Hamas and other anti-Israel Islamist terrorist organizations. The goal of the bingo card is less to make fun of them (although there is a degree of black humor in there), and more to highlight how they've been indoctrinated, in a cult-like manner, to give these specific responses when challenged or when they're harassing Jews.

"From the River to the Sea": The full slogan, in English, is "From the [Jordan] River to the [Mediterranean] Sea, Palestine will be free!" Catchy, rhyming, and great to chant--with many people who chant it not being able to name the river, the sea, or find them on a map. At first blush, it seems to be a call to liberation... but in the original Arabic, the slogan wouldn't rhyme like that. And indeed, the original slogans in Arabic are much more direct, saying, "From the water to the water, Palestine is Arab/Islamic"--being a call for ethnic cleansing of the Jews, or just outright genocide. (Some Hamasnik groups have started coaching their members to explicitly chant these versions). In either version, however, this is a thought-terminating cliché, and a versatile one, as a Hamasnik can just default to the slogan when facing cognitive dissonance.

"Is-Not-Real/Fake Country": Childish namecalling and delegitimization of Israel. It's primarily here because it's a thought-terminating cliché--rather than grappling with the existence of Israel as a fully functional, sovereign nation, they deflect with childish namecalling and idiotic assertions; it is no different than Trump’s puerile namecalling. "Israhell" is also popular and falls under this category.

"Indigenous": This is a use of Loaded Language as a thought-terminating cliché. "Indigenous", at the most basic, simply means "this group of people originated in and has social ties to a specific region". There's more to it than that, but that's the core concept, and its already a tricky concept to work with, having been coined in the context of distinguishing between native and non-native non-Europeans during colonialism, and thus is difficult to apply when dealing with non-colonizer situations (part of the official definition by the UN is effectively a Catch-22, where any indigenous group that manages to regain full self-determination effectively loses their status as indigenous).

But the connotation of "indigenous" is far more than "this is where this group of people is from". The connotations range from having a degree of innate moral standing, on up to being mythical beings in unbreakable communion with the spirit of the land, especially placed in contrast with the evil of Colonizers. Thus, by the black-and-white propagandized narrative that Hamasniks are indoctrinated with, Jews cannot be indigenous, because we're not morally pure enough for them, and the Palestinians cannot be anything other than indigenous, actual historical and ethnographic details be damned.

"Speak up/Don't Remain Silent": This is difficult to include here, because speaking up is an important part of any form of activism. The major reason why it was included is that it is used as a form of thought-terminating cliché, specifically when it's being applied in the context of accusations or insinuations that the topic of the I/P conflict is being silenced or not spoken about sufficiently--when it is instead arguably discussed out of proportion to its actual impact, to the detriment of other conflicts that need some form of attention.

Addendum from @pet-genius on this point:

Being the only one to speak is brave. No matter if you're right or wrong, it's brave to say things nobody else is talking about. Being the first to speak can make so much of a difference. But for fuck's sake guys, everyone is speaking all the time. You can't open a comment section on a recipe without hearing about Palestine. There's a point when "speak up" isn't a moral imperative, but a form of thought policing. Nobody is under an obligation to tell you what they think. Or agree with you. Or talk about it openly, assuming they do agree with you. Nobody is under an obligation to share your values, or your priorities. And it's borderline fascism to manufacture a consensus around this issue that everyone must abide by and reinforce or else.

Traumatized Palestinians: This is a catechism that takes several forms, but it generally comes down to, "After 75 years of genocide/poor treatment, how do you expect them to act?" This argument takes away agency from the Palestinians, treating them like beaten animals who will lash out by instinct, rather than as human beings with choice. It's also a hellacious double standard, because if what the Palestinians have done is justified after 75 years of how they've been treated, then the Nakba was equally justified, if not restrained, after 1200+ years of Dhimmitude, the Holocaust, and a coordinated attack that explicitly promised to finish what Hitler had started. As such, this argument is a race to the bottom of trauma, and is honestly a disgusting argument, but it's never meant in good faith--it's a catechism in that it is a canned response used to justify atrocities against Israelis.

"Go back to Poland/USA": A thought-terminating cliché that's basically pure distilled Jew-hating racism, combining "Jews are just White European Colonizers", with either "Go back to where you were put into death camps and gas chambers and populace has made it clear that they hate you" or "You're actually just an American citizen doing a Colonialism" and Dual Loyalty. But it's very popular because it can be just thrown out there as an attack without any thought, just a desire to cause pain with the veneer of social justice.

"Nazi/Fascist": One of the most popular thought-terminating clichés on this list, calling Jews and Israelis the same thing as our greatest mass murderers; also takes the form of "They've become what they hated." This is just pure antisemitism in the form of a thought-terminating cliché. "They are like what we've been taught is the embodiment of pure evil, no other nuance needed."

"Ashkenazi": Invoking the "Ashkenazi"--the Jewish sub-ethnicity/minhag that is associated with Northern Europe--as a justification for bias against Jews or Israelis is incredibly popular, because, to the Colorism binary that US-centric racism operates on, "Jews Are White"--but specifically Ashkenazi Jews. It's just racialized Jew-hate with extra steps, because the people who make this categorization are ones that view Whiteness as Evil. So rather than acknowledge any nuance--that only assimilated Ashkenazi who appear White (which is not all of them) have had conditional access to White privilege for the last two generations, access that is quickly being revoked, it's just "Ashkenazi are White" as a thought-terminating cliché, no further thought needed.

"Breakout": This is a catechism that's evolved since the October 7th Pogrom, as it is dependent on describing Gaza as an "open-air prison" and the mass invasion by thousands of terrorists intent on killing anyone they could find in as torturous a way as possible as a "breakout"--i.e. giving a canned answer that they were nothing more than prisoners seeking freedom, not murderers seeking victims.

"Privilege": This is another popular thought-terminating cliché, derived from the vocabulary of Left-wing Social Justice, and perverted. The original concept of the term was basically a way of framing, "There are ways in which society privileges certain parts of your identity and oppresses other parts". This was the basis of "intersectionality", where, say, a White Gay Man and a Straight Black Man both experience oppression and privilege differently based on their sexuality and race. But in this context, the concept has been twisted to imply that Jews are innately and unjustly elevated and powerful.

"Election": This is a catechism, with the argument it's addressing being specifically that the reason for the Israel/Hamas conflict is because Israel hates democracy and is trying to destroy Gaza "because they had an election that you didn't like the results of." Nevermind that said election was almost twenty years ago, that Hamas only managed a plurality of the vote, and only cemented power through killing all of its rivals, and hasn't allowed an election since--the catechism is highly effective at twisting the reason for the conflict to having Israel be the aggressor, intent on engaging in regime change, rather than being in response to the Oct 7 invasion and the taking of hostages.

"I'm antizionist, not antisemitic.": Thought-terminating cliché, and one of the most powerful ones; it was this or "Free Palestine" as the Free Space. In essence, by saying these words, the speaker absolves themselves of any and all Jew-hate--they're "just" antizionist. Usually said right before saying something that is so full of Jew-hate that it can often be traced back to Nazi propaganda. But since they've said the magic words, they don't need to reflect on how what they've said is bigoted (see parallels with "I'm not racist, but..."). And this isn't even getting into the fact that they're framing their ideology as being in specific opposition to Jewish self-determination.

"Checkpoints": Another catechism, this time in support of the "Israel practices apartheid" belief. The thing is, the purpose of the security checkpoints isn't to hassle the Palestinians or keep them down, it's to keep the very well substantiated risk of foreign nationals intent on murdering Israelis at bay. Despite what a lot of people think, Palestinians aren't Israeli citizens; they have the option to, but chose not to, and given the history of violence, Israel has opted to have a nearly completely closed border with them, with checkpoints being the way through them. Is it perfect? No. Does it keep the death toll on both sides of the conflict down? Yes.

"Peaceful protest": Interestingly a combination of both catechism and thought-terminating cliché, where any and all Pro-Palestinian protests are characterized as "peaceful"--while video evidence frequently shows threats, aggressive language, calls for genocide of Jews (often not even using coded language), uses of force against Jews, assaults, kidnappings, destruction of property, violations of court orders, and more. But by just insisting that they're "peaceful protests"--even when there are protestors telling Jews that they'll be tortured to death--the speaker can quell cognitive dissonance and tell themselves that it's the other side that's actually violent. Sorry, but disrupting classes, kidnapping a janitor, drawing graffiti on historical objects, smashing windows, and telling people that they'll be raped to death isn't "peaceful".

"liberated/liberation": Another combination of both catechism and thought-terminating cliché, where terrorist attacks against random Israeli citizens and harassing Diaspora Jews are framed as actions that will "free Palestine". The how is not important, the important part is that they totally will "Liberate Palestine"! Any and all actions are justified when they can be tied to "liberation", regardless of whether or not they'd actually accomplish anything. Burn a synagogue? It’s Liberatory! Graffiti a Jewish school with swastikas? It will bring about Liberation! Kill a Christian Israeli and his American Jewish girlfriend leaving a peace-focused event? LIBERATION!

"Apartheid": This is another catechism, designed to reductively, simplistically, and wrongly compare the situation between Israelis and Palestinians--with security fences, passes, checkpoints, and the like--to that of Apartheid era South Africa, as well as justify any and all attacks done on Israel as a result. The difference here is that Palestinians are foreign nationals who represent legitimate security and safety risks, while Arab Israelis have no barriers to political, social, legal, or economic participation and representation. Is the situation terrible? Yes. Is it akin to the legally sanctioned racist system of South African Apartheid? No. Furthermore, South Africa was reformed from apartheid... but the people making this accusation prefer to suggest Israel's destruction as the remedy.

"Intifada": The First and Second Intifadas were campaigns of suicide bombings, murders, and other acts of terrorism that claimed the lives of hundreds of Israelis and Palestinians. They were horrible and devastating periods that accomplished nothing other than getting a lot of people killed and increasing Israeli fears--fears that led to the very checkpoints and border walls that are so derided by the people spouting these phrases. But to hear the people who chant, "Globalize/Nationalize/Bring Home The Intifada", they were incredibly successful campaigns that need to be replicated, expanded, and otherwise built upon. Such chants are thought-terminating clichés, because the people repeating them are not doing so out of actual thought of what these entail, imply, or otherwise mean. Instead, they're just repeating the term as a buzzword that they've been propagandized to believe is a symbol of Palestinian resistance, rather than Palestinian futility and cruelty. Additionally, it’s also actively threatening other people--especially Jews--with bus bombings and random murders.

"Settler-Colonial/European Imperial": This is another example of both a catechism and a thought-terminating cliché, depending on how it is used, but in both cases, it is dependent on the false presentation of Israel as being the last surviving example of the evils of European colonialism; to the post-colonialist, there is no greater example of evil, and thus it is incredibly effective to falsely paint Israel as this. It’s a much simpler narrative instead of the reality, that of a displaced indigenous populace (the Jews) returning to their homeland and messily conflicting with the colonists (the Arabs) who controlled it during their absence; it also ties into the dominant Islamist (not Islamic, but Islamist) narrative that the Middle East belongs by right to the Arabs who conquered, colonized, and forcibly converted the native populaces the region 1400 years ago; this is why Palestinians and Jews show common gene markers, because somewhere between a large minority or a small majority of Palestinians have Jewish ancestry from ancestors who converted to Islam and abandoned Judaism for the advantages presented by the conquerors of the region. But that’s much more complicated than “Jews are invading Europeans colonizing the Native Arabs”. By presenting that simplistic but false narrative, it functions to terminate any thoughts that might allow for nuance, and allows for an instant (if incorrect) response to any rebuttals that try to insert nuance or facts into the discussion.

"Blockade": This one is a catechism, used as a canned response or accusation against Israel as if to prove that Israel is being cruel to Gaza simply for cruelty's sake--that Israel is blockading Gaza's access simply out of vindictiveness. The fact is, Israel imposed its blockade--in conjunction with Egypt, which is nearly never mentioned in this accusation--because Hamas started firing rockets and staging attacks into Israel in the hope of killing random Israelis back in the mid 2000s, soon after they took power. Israel imposed the blockade in the hope of stopping them from having access to weapons and material for weapons. All it did was slow them down, because they were so desperate to kill Israelis that they started ripping up water pipes to build rockets out of--rockets that would get shot down by the Iron Dome after it was built. The blockade is there because of Hamas' fanatical desire to kill Israelis and not caring about the lives of Gazans, not because of Israel's vindictiveness... but to hear Hamasniks talk about it, the blockade is there specifically to starve Gazans to death. The fact that half of the population has been born and grown since the blockade was imposed shows that, if famine was the goal, it has been stunningly ineffective.

"Palestinian Jew": Another combo, depending on use; in essence, there is a consistent and persistent belief in the Hamasnik camp that there is a demographically significant portion of Palestinians who are practicing religious Jews (who are being oppressed by Zionists); this is false in multiple ways, but the belief persists, mostly because it helps buttress against accusations of antisemitism, because they can tell themselves that they're fighting for the "Palestinian Jews" against the Zionists, and that “they’re antizionist, not antisemitic”, because “Zionism does not equal Judaism”. The fact is, however, outside of a relative handful of intermarriages in the West Bank, there are no members of the Palestinian nation-people who are also Jews. Prior to 1948, “Palestinian Jew” was the term for Jewish residents of the British Mandate of Palestine (in contrast to the Arab identity of the Muslim residents), but that term became irrelevant when they became Israelis. The fact of the matter is, over 98% of Gaza is Muslim in religious identity (and the remaining 2% are Christians persecuted by Hamas), and there are no Jews in Gaza, much less “Palestinian Jews”. When Israel pulled out of Gaza in the mid-2000s, they removed every single Jew from the Strip, down to emptying the graveyards. So this constant refrain of “Palestinian Jews” (i.e. the fictitious Good Jews against the Evil Israelis) is just false... but is ideologically necessary for these people to lie to themselves that they’re only against Zionism, not Jews.

"War crime/criminal": This one can be tricky, because there have been war crimes committed in this conflict--lots of them--but it's here because the people who make this accusation are almost never referencing actual, on-the-law-books war crimes, but instead assigning the status based on vibes and their own biases. Using human shields is a war crime, while striking human shields to get at the sheltering military target is not, so long as the damage is proportional to the importance of the target behind the human shields and some precautions are taken to reduce the collateral damage to the human shields. It's sad that this is the case, but the laws are set up that way to disincentivize the use of human shields--otherwise dictators would just plate their tanks with toddlers and basically go “You can’t touch me without breaking international law!” But, again, sending aid to an allied nation is not a war crime. Engaging in diplomacy with an allied nation is not a war crime. These are not war crimes, despite the use of the phrase as a thought-terminating cliché.

"Resistance": A thought-terminating cliché and buzzword, where Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthi's terrorist activities are legitimized by painting them as the acts of plucky freedom fighters engaging in resistance against an occupying power, instead of being a bunch of cowards who try to murder civilians for the sake of killing civilians and then hide behind other civilians. And since there are "no Israeli civilians", then any and all Israelis are legitimate military targets.

"Political prisoners": This is a catechism, because it reframes the Palestinians who are in Israeli prison--whether justifiably because of a conviction in court for murder and terrorism, or unjustifiably because they might have been engaged in attacks--as instead having been imprisoned purely for politically-based purposes, as if they were members of an opposition party being locked up on trumped up charges.

"Stolen culture": This one is a catechism, and it ties into a larger element of Jew-hate, as it builds on the "Jews are rootless cosmopolitans with no home country, who steal other people's culture and claim it as their own" antisemitic belief. In this case, it's claiming that the specifically Jewish elements of Jewish culture--Jewish names, food, and other practices--are actually originally Palestinian or Arab, and they've been stolen by the Jews. It's also a fun bit of DARVO (Deny, Attack, Reverse Victim and Offender) when you look at the origins of Islam--but that's why it's so popular, because it allows for a denial of how much of Christian and Muslim culture is built off of stolen Jewish culture and history.

"Free Palestine!": The ultimate thought-terminating cliché of the Hamasnik movement. Have a moment of cognitive dissonance or nuance? Just chant "Free Palestine!" until it's over. Murder a pair of Jews coming out of a political function trying to arrange peace in the region? Chant "Free, Free Palestine!" What does "Free Palestine" even mean? Whatever the holder wants it to mean, but it generally seems to mean "I want to kill the Jews!", not "Help Palestinians".

"Open-air concentration/extermination camp": This catechism, related to the famine, blockade, and genocide catechisms, is essentially painting Israelis as Nazis intent on a genocidal campaign of extermination against the Palestinians, by basically saying that the Palestinians are being held prisoner, captive, and are being kept there until they're killed. It's nothing more and nothing less than Holocaust Inversion and really has no basis in reality. Any one of the Nazi extermination camps had a higher death toll in a month than there has been cumulative deaths on both sides of the I/P conflict since 1948. But rather than engage with nuance or details, this catechism makes for a great accusation.

[ZOG Canard]: "ZOG" means "Zionist Occupational Government". This one takes many, many forms, but in essence it boils down to, "Jews/Israel/Zionists control the Media/Movies/Economy/ Banks/Government/International Politics/other power structure". It's an old, old accusation, and extremely popular, because it allows the accuser to imagine themselves as punching up against a powerful foe, not kicking a small minority that's under siege, and easily rationalizes any failure or setback--it was The Zionists Conspiring Against Me!

"Nakba": This one is tricky, because there are essentially two Nakbas at play in the discussion space, and it's the second one that's the problem. The first Nakba is the historical event in 1948, resulting in the displacement of the Arab populace who became the Palestinians. These people were displaced as part of one of three groups: Group One were Arab civilians getting the hell out of the way of the invading Arab armies from the surrounding nations (in some cases with the assurances that they'd be able to come back and join in on the looting) Group Two were Arab civilians who joined in and supported the Arab armies, and ended up being pushed back and out. Group Three were displaced by Israeli armies engaging in ethnic cleansing of Arab civilians, with the dual intents of denying the Arab armies logistical support and increasing potential Jewish population proportions within the Green Line when the dust settled. In total, about 700,000 Arabs were displaced, with there being debate on the sizes of each group. The second Nakba is the mythologized and propagandized version, where invading European Jews took advantage of the innocent, kind and gentle Palestinians and their hospitality and shelter, and then, when the time was right, betrayed the Palestinians, and threw them out of their own homes, laughing evilly the entire time. Then they brutally tortured and killed any Palestinian they could catch, while the rest of the world looked on in horror at the cruelty and inhumanity of the Zionists but were unable to do anything for... reasons, and was one of the greatest tragedies and injustices in all of history, unequaled before or since. It's this second Nakba that's the catechism, and usually people who aren't Hamasnik cultists will be able to tell the difference.

[Blood libel]: Essentially, any accusation that paints Jews or Israelis as bloodthirsty or predators of children, or harvesting the bodies of children for nefarious purposes. This one takes a variety of forms, including "they make [Jewish product] with the blood of Palestinian children", "they deliberately target children's hospitals in order to kill Palestinian children", "they kill a Palestinian child every three days", or "to become a member of the IDF, you have to kill a Palestinian child", to mention just a fraction of examples I personally have seen in the last month.

"Flood": This one is a catechism, and in short, it valorizes and uplifts the October 7th attack on Israel, which had the codename of "Al-Aqsa Flood" by Hamas. So when Hamasniks say that they need to "Flood" anything Jewish-related, or that the "Flood will return", they're essentially calling for repeats of October 7th.

"ethnic cleansing": Another tricky one that needs to be taken in context. "Ethnic cleansing" referring to Netanyahu and company's threats to take all of the Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza and dump them on Jordan's doorstep? Not a catechism. Saying that trying to get Palestinian civilians out of the way of bombs aimed at Hamas is ethnic cleansing? A catechism.

"Khazer/European": These two terms, along with multiple others, attempt to deny the Jewish connection to the Levant by casting Jews (who are reductively diminished to solely the Ashkenazi) as nothing more than Turks or Europeans with no history or connection to the region. Occasionally they will acknowledge that Jews do have a historical connection, but "it's been too long" for that to remain valid. In essence, indigenous status has an expiration date--and when cited by Hamasniks, the arbitrary cutoff date is always at a point where Arab colonization had taken hold, but European colonization had not yet begun. It's a popular set of terms because it allows the Hamasnik to ignore facts in favor of simplistic propaganda.

"3000 years": This is a thought-terminating cliché, generally used to mock Jews for our history. "It was promised to him 3000 years ago" is the typical formulation, basically trying to paint Jews as engaging in American-style Manifest Destiny and denying all of the historical and sociological evidence behind the Jewish desire to return to our homeland, simplifying it down to something worthy of mockery and denial.

"Olive tree/Pine tree": This is another set of two catechisms, grouped here for their innate relationship; the underlying simplistic narrative is that the Palestinians lived in peaceful symbiosis with their native olive trees, which were burned and bulldozed by the evil Zionists, who replace them with non-native (i.e. European) pine trees, and that the Zionists are allergic to native trees. The actual facts are that olive trees are a cash crop found around the entire Mediterranean, cultivated by everyone, including the ancient Judeans, and the pine trees being planted by Israel are native Aleppo pines--a species that was ravaged in the region by the Ottoman Empire using them to build and fuel railroads.

"Carpet-/indiscriminate-bombing/Flattening Gaza": This is one of the single most popular catechisms in the current conflict, attempting to paint Israel as being genocidally murderous with its bombing campaign against Hamas. The thing is, if Israel truly was engaging in carpet bombing--i.e. saturation bombing, with high yield bombs for every square meter of Gaza--then the death toll would have been in the hundreds of thousands in the first month, and a million by the end of 2023. We know this because actual carpet bombings by the Allies against the Nazis in WWII had those sorts of casualty figures, which was most of a century ago, using incredibly more primitive technology at the end of extended flights. The reality is that Israel is using precision munitions to target Hamas as directly as possible, but Hamas is still using human shields, and that means that civilians will die as a result. But the casualties that would result from saturation bombardment simply do not fit the actual death toll.

"real antisemitism": Another thought-terminating cliché. Apparently Jews aren't allowed to determine what is antisemitic--only non-Jews are, and their behavior doesn't fall under "real antisemitism", only "antizionism".

"US military base": Another catechism, this one builds on the "settler-colonial" and "fake country" concepts to deem Israel to be nothing more than a US military base as part of US imperialism; the idea that Israel is a sovereign nation is beyond consideration to people who spout this idea (although, ironically, the argument can be made that they're upholding American Imperialism via this outlook).

"genocide": One of the single biggest thought-terminating clichés on this list, it is the accusation that Israel is intentionally and systematically engaging in an effort to wipe out the Palestinians. The fact of the matter is that, if this was the case, there would be no Palestinians left. However, as this is one of the most significant, if not the central tenet of faith in the Hamasnik cult, the fact that the death toll does not match this outcome is something that they simply ignore, deny, or make up "alternative facts" to suit their narrative. Exaggerations of the death toll that are three, four, ten, or even a hundred times that of the actual number of deaths are common, to the point of absurdity.

[Happy Dhimmi Canard]: To hear Hamasniks tell it, long ago, Muslims, Christians and Jews lived in harmony, until the Zionists attacked, and this golden age of interreligious mutual understanding can be returned to once the state of Israel is destroyed and all of the Zionists killed or exiled--presumably with the mythical "Palestinian Jews" being part of this revived golden era. The reality was significantly different, with Jews being subjected to incredible, and incredibly harsh, restrictions, humiliations, and brutality. Modern readers already prepared to be biased will hear “dhimmi” as meaning "protected class" under historic Islamic rule and think "ah, they were protected from abuse", while the reality of dhimmihood was closer to "pay extortionate levels of protection money and we will only brutalize you instead of wiping you out." In essence, this is a thought-terminating cliché designed to keep people from questioning why Jews would want self-determination and political independence. It frequently comes up with any discussions of Jewish exile from the Arab world, where Islamic violence against their Jewish communities is brushed away with the simplistic (and false) narrative that everything was fine beforehand, and any violence that might have occurred was due to false flag attacks by Zionists. (How this works for pogroms that happened before the establishment of Israel is glossed over)

"Martyr": A thought-terminating cliché, and an absolutely vile one at that; casualties of the war with Israel are called martyrs, whether they were members of Hamas' militant wings... or civilians used as human shields. In either case, it's glorifying and exulting in death, frequently of those who had no choice to be sacrificed on the altar of "Free Palestine". But rather than contemplate the lives of those who are being killed, this cliché makes them into symbols of inspiring death.

"Ethnostate": This one is fascinating, because the term originated among the Alt-Right and its xenophobia, but has been wholly embraced by the Hamasnik Left as an accusation against Israel. Similar to the "apartheid" accusation, this catechism frames Israel as a place for Jews, by Jews... and no one else. But this is not the case, as a simple look at the reality of Israeli demographics and politics would reveal.

"Freedom of Speech": A catechism, that Hamasnik protestors are merely "exercising their right to freedom of speech". Thing is, "freedom of speech" does not include incitement to violence, hate speech, or active threats to others, much less acts of assault, property damage, harassment, denial of others their rights, or other acts of violence, all of which are present and extremely well documented as having been perpetrated by these "peaceful protestors".

"Occupier/Occupation": Thought-terminating cliché used to refer to any Israeli or any part of Israel, regardless of whether they're living in the West Bank, within the Green Line, or in Tel Aviv itself. It's not whether they're living on land that was originally partitioned to be part of the Arab state in 1947 or not, it's the fact that they're living in the region at all... or living, period.

"Hasbara": Hasbara means "explanation" in Hebrew, and is generally used as "Public Diplomacy" in the context of Israeli actions--"This is what we did and why, for full clarity." But in the hands of Hamasniks, it's a thought-terminating cliché, where "Hasbara", or anything that comes from Jews at all is just lies and false propaganda, and can be dismissed as "Hasbara" without further consideration.

"Famine": Another catechism, related to the genocide and blockade catechisms; essentially, it's accusing Israel of deliberately trying to starve the Gazans in an effort to kill them all. Nevermind that more than enough aid goes into the Gaza Strip to give every Gazan enough food and water, and even the UN's own reporting makes it clear that there was never famine conditions in the Strip, it's still a wonderful accusation to throw without thought.

"Criticizing Israel": Catechism, and used to defend some of the most horrendous Jew-hating rhetoric. Someone will say, "I want all Israelis to die after being tortured to death over a period of weeks" or "Jews are conniving evil vermin who want to rule over all goyim" and when challenged, say that they were just "criticizing Israel". (Those examples were not at random, either)

"Ceasefire": Catechism when used by Hamasniks; when they use it, the manner in which they use it makes it clear that they're not talking about "Both Hamas and the IDF stand down and stop attacking", which would be the actual meaning of "ceasefire". In the mouths of Hamasniks, it means, "IDF stands down and Hamas can continue to attack" or, even more popular, "Israel surrenders unconditionally to Hamas".

"Collective punishment": A catechism, essentially saying that Israel is deliberately harming and attacking all of Gaza for the crimes of a few. The fact that Israel is taking pains to get aid to the civilians and shoot around them is ignored.

"Zionist": Thought-terminating cliché; it has become a slur for "Jew", as well as conflating the extremist Kahanist position, which is Jewish supremacist, with the mainstream "We just want to have self-determination and live" position.

#antisemitism #leftist antisemitism #the anti imperialism of idiots #israel hamas conflict

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deep-space-lines · 4 months ago

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i'm not dead and i made another little guy

This thing was.. an interesting challenge. Because the cool thing about skeletons is that they are not very good at being plushies; I could not find a single pre-existing pattern for a decent-looking skeleton when I was starting out and had to do everything from scratch, ended up going for a more puppet-like design. This thing hurt me in new and unique ways. Fun!

The actual sewing was like 10 times easier and faster than the V's, but figuring out how to actually make it work and look good was a pain. Worth it tho, I'm really happy with how he turned out. Can't wait to throw coins at him

the gang's all here!!

#making stupid little guys for my stupid fucking mental health #ultrakill #my art #plushies #ferryman ultrakill #he's really fun to pose ngl

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aventurineswife · 6 days ago

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Hiii, I'm not sure about this idea, but what about poor(?)reader who barely has money decided to make a handmade gift to Louch, Aventurine and Jiaoqiu? (⁠´⁠ε⁠｀⁠ ⁠)

A Token of Devotion

Tags: Luocha x Reader, Aventurine x Reader, Jiaoqiu x Reader, Fluff, Angst (Mild), Hurt/Comfort, Slow Burn (for some), Established Feelings, Mutual Pining, Thoughtful Gestures, Emotional Depth, Gift-Giving, Poor!Reader, Handmade Gift, Soft Moments.

Warnings: Mentions of financial struggles (Reader being poor), Some emotional vulnerability from characters, Slight angst regarding self-worth and personal burdens, Mild past trauma mentions, Comforting moments and happy endings.

The Xianzhou Luofu was always bustling with life, but to you, the city’s markets only served as a reminder of your empty pockets. As an intergalactic traveler with barely enough money to buy a meal, extravagant gifts were out of the question. But when you thought about Luocha—the enigmatic merchant who had helped you time and time again—your heart ached to give him something in return.

So, you turned to the one thing you could offer: your hands.

You spent days carefully weaving a simple charm, using threads you scavenged from old fabrics. It wasn’t much—just a small green tassel, embroidered with a white flower. It was meant to resemble the ones on Luocha’s coat, a small token of appreciation for all he had done for you.

When the time came to give it to him, you hesitated. What if he found it childish? What if—

“Something on your mind?”

Luocha’s voice was gentle, pulling you from your thoughts. He stood beside you, his ever-present coffin resting on his back, his piercing eyes studying you with quiet curiosity.

You swallowed your nerves and held out the charm. “I… made this for you. It’s not much, but I wanted to thank you for everything.”

Luocha took the charm delicately, his fingers grazing yours. He examined it for a long moment, a small smile playing at his lips.

“A handmade gift,” he murmured, voice laced with something unreadable. “This must have taken you some time.”

You nodded, embarrassed. “I didn’t have money to buy anything nice, so I—”

“You misunderstand.” His eyes softened. “This is worth far more than any trinket I could buy.”

Your breath hitched as he carefully tied the charm to the handle of his coffin, letting it sway gently. His next words were quieter, almost as if they were meant for himself.

“A reminder that kindness does not always need to be repaid in coin.”

Luocha looked at you then, something warm and unreadable in his gaze. “Thank you. I will treasure it.”

Your heart stuttered. Maybe you weren’t as poor as you thought—because at that moment, Luocha made you feel richer than anyone in the stars.

You knew Aventurine was a man of luxury. Everything he owned was expensive—his suits, his accessories, even his dice were probably made of precious metals. Which meant buying him a gift was out of the question.

But you weren’t about to back down from the challenge.

So, you made something instead—a small deck of handmade playing cards. The designs were uneven, the paint smudged in places, but each card was made with care, featuring symbols inspired by his signature motifs: peacock feathers, gemstones, and spades.

When you presented it to him, Aventurine stared at the deck in silence, turning a card over in his gloved fingers. His eyes flickered with something unreadable.

“You made these?” he asked, a rare pause in his usual carefree demeanor.

You nodded, suddenly self-conscious. “I know it’s not much, but I—”

A chuckle escaped him, low and amused. “Not much? Sweetheart, do you have any idea how much effort this must’ve taken?”

You blinked, taken aback.

Aventurine shuffled the cards expertly, a mischievous glint in his gaze. “Handmade cards from you? I’d say that’s a one-of-a-kind treasure.” He twirled a card between his fingers before tucking the deck into his coat pocket. “A gift from the heart… Now that’s a gamble I’ll always bet on.”

His grin widened as he leaned in, voice dropping to a teasing whisper.

“Though I must warn you—I fully intend to make you play a round with me. And if I win…” He tapped your nose lightly, smirking. “You owe me another handmade surprise.”

You groaned, but the warmth in his expression made your heart flutter. Maybe, just maybe, you’d already won something far more valuable.

Jiaoqiu always gave so much to others. Whether it was his medical skills or his wisdom, he poured his heart into his work.

You wanted to return the favor—even if you had little to offer.

That’s how you found yourself carefully preparing a small, handmade snack using the most affordable ingredients you could find. It was a simple pastry, infused with herbs known for their calming properties—a recipe you had once seen Jiaoqiu mention in passing.

When you nervously handed it to him, Jiaoqiu blinked in surprise, his fox ears twitching slightly. “For me?”

You nodded, fidgeting. “It’s not much, but… I wanted to thank you.”

A slow smile spread across his lips, and for a moment, his irises shimmered with something soft. He took a careful bite, chewing thoughtfully.

Then, his expression melted into something fond.

“This… tastes like home,” he murmured.

Your breath caught.

Jiaoqiu looked at you then, eyes half-lidded but warm. “It’s been a long time since someone made something for me.” He let out a soft chuckle, shaking his head. “You have no idea how much this means.”

He reached out, gently patting your head before brushing a stray lock of hair aside. “Thank you. Truly.”

In that moment, you realized—maybe you didn’t need wealth to make a difference. Because in Jiaoqiu’s smile, in the quiet way he savored every bite, you knew your gift had found its place.

And that was more than enough.

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dieseldame · 6 months ago

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𝗗𝗿𝗮𝘄𝗻 𝗯𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀

Sevika x Fortune Teller! Reader

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗱 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁: 2,1K

𝗦𝘂𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗿𝘆: Intrigued by Sevika’s use of a tarot deck, Reader joins her for a game that takes an unexpected turn.

𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀: Slow burn, fortune-telling, tarot, romantic tension, domestic fluff, Zaun setting.

𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿'𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀: I’ve recently gotten my hands on my very first tarot deck, and it’s been such a fascinating journey learning the meanings behind the cards and their symbolism. That curiosity sparked the idea for this story—combining Sevika’s no-nonsense attitude with the mystical allure of tarot readings. I wanted to capture the tension, the mystery, and the inevitability of fate in this piece. Enjoy!

The Last Drop was alive with the raucous energy of a late Zaunite evening. The air thrummed with music, laughter, and the click of glasses colliding in toasts. Smoke curled lazily from various corners, and the smell of spilled liquor clung to the damp floorboards. It was a place for the desperate and the bold, where fortunes were gambled and lives sometimes exchanged for coin or glory.

And at the heart of it all sat Sevika.

She leaned back in her chair with the air of someone who owned not just her table but the entire room. A small smirk tugged at her lips as she toyed with a glass of amber liquid in one hand and shuffled her deck with the other. The cards moved between her fingers like extensions of herself, each flip and ripple precise, hypnotic. Around her, a circle of admirers and challengers alike watched with bated breath. Another winning streak. Another pile of coin gathered at her elbow.

For Sevika, it wasn’t about the money—it was about control. She reveled in the predictable chaos of it all: the sweat beading on her opponents' brows, the way their bravado faltered under her calculating stare. She was the gravitational force pulling them all in. And she liked it that way.

But tonight, she felt it before she saw it. A shift in the air.

You had been watching her from the edge of the room, drawn like a moth to a flame. Something about her presence—the easy confidence, the intensity in her gaze—snared you and wouldn’t let go. It wasn’t just her skill at the table or the low rasp of her voice as she called her plays. It was something deeper, something unspoken, like the hum of an engine beneath layers of steel.

Before you knew it, you were moving. Through the crowd, past the jeers and cheers of the patrons. Closer to her.

She noticed you immediately, of course. Her eyes flicked up, sharp and assessing.

— Another challenger? — she drawled, her voice cutting through the din like a blade.

— Not quite, — you replied, your voice steady, though your heart raced. You gestured to the seat across from her. — But I’d like a hand.

Sevika arched an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. She nodded toward the chair. — Your funeral.

The deck moved between her hands again, shuffling with practiced ease. As you sat, you noticed the intricate designs on the cards—less a standard playing deck and more… something else. Tarot cards.

— Interesting choice. — you said, gesturing to the deck.

Sevika’s smirk deepened. — Keeps things interesting. You’d be surprised how much the cards know.

She dealt three cards in a smooth, deliberate motion. One. Two. Three. Face down.

You hesitated before flipping them over. Something about this felt… significant.

The first card revealed itself: The Tower, reversed.

The air seemed to thicken. You swallowed hard, your fingers brushing the edge of the card. — Your past. — you murmured.

Sevika chuckled, low and rough. — Go on, fortune teller. Enlighten me.

You didn’t know what compelled you to continue—whether it was her challenge or the magnetic pull she had on you. But as you spoke, the words came unbidden.

— The Tower reversed represents… chaos avoided. A disaster that didn’t destroy you but left its mark. You’ve rebuilt yourself, piece by piece, but the foundation still trembles. — You glanced up, meeting her gaze. — You’ve survived, but survival came at a cost.

For a moment, something flickered in Sevika’s eyes. Recognition? Pain? It was gone as quickly as it appeared, replaced by her usual mask of indifference.

— Lucky guess. — she said, though her tone lacked conviction.

The second card. The Eight of Swords, upright.

— Your present, — you continued, your voice quieter now. — You’re trapped. Not physically, but… mentally. You feel confined by something. Your choices, your loyalty, your circumstances. You’re strong, but even the strongest can feel caged.

This time, Sevika didn’t speak. Her jaw tightened, and her hand curled into a fist on the table. You could feel the tension radiating from her, a storm barely contained.

Finally, the third card. The Lovers, upright.

You froze. The card seemed to hum with its own energy, the vibrant imagery drawing your eye.

— Your future, — you said softly. — A union. Love. A choice that will change everything.

Sevika scoffed, breaking the spell. — Love? Please. I don’t need anyone.

You couldn’t help but smile, leaning forward slightly. — The cards don’t lie.

Her gaze locked with yours, a challenge in her eyes. — We’ll see about that.

The moment stretched, taut and electric. You could feel the weight of her attention, the way it pinned you in place. Finally, you stood, letting the tension break.

As you turned to leave, you glanced over your shoulder, offering her a teasing smile. — I’ll be seeing you, Sevika.

She didn’t reply, but her eyes followed you, dark and unreadable.

Months Later

Sevika’s apartment was quiet, save for the soft clink of pots and pans from the kitchen. The first rays of dawn filtered through the grimy window, casting long shadows across the room.

She stepped inside, kicking the door shut behind her. The weight of the day’s winnings—gold and coin stuffed into various bags—pulled at her arms, but she barely noticed. Her gaze was fixed on the figure in the kitchen.

You stood at the stove, humming softly to yourself as you stirred a pot. The warm, familiar scent of spices filled the air. You looked over your shoulder as she entered, your lips curling into a smile.

— Late night? — you teased, your tone light but knowing.

Sevika grunted, dropping the bags near the door before making her way toward you. She leaned against the doorframe, watching you with a mix of amusement and something softer, something she wouldn’t dare name.

— You’re cooking again. — she said.

— Someone has to keep you alive, — you shot back, turning to face her fully. — And I’d rather it not be through Zaun’s questionable street food.

Her lips twitched, almost a smile. Almost.

You tilted your head, your eyes sparkling with mischief. — Come here, Sevika.

She didn’t need to be told twice. Crossing the small space in a few strides, she slipped her arms around your waist, pulling you close. Her body was warm, solid, grounding. You leaned into her, resting your head briefly against her chest.

— Miss me? — you asked, your voice teasing.

— Don’t push it, — she muttered, but the way her hands lingered on your hips betrayed her.

You tilted your head up, catching her gaze. — You know, — you said softly, — I told you the cards don’t lie.

Sevika rolled her eyes, but before she could retort, you leaned up and kissed her. It was soft, almost chaste, but it lingered just enough to make her breath hitch.

When you pulled back, she gave you a look that was equal parts exasperation and affection. —You’re insufferable.

— And yet, — you replied, your grin widening.

Without warning, she scooped you up, setting you down on the kitchen island with ease. Her hands framed your face as she kissed you again, this time with more heat, more intent. The world seemed to fall away, leaving only the two of you.

When you finally broke apart, your breathing uneven, your gaze drifted to the counter beside you. There, lying face up, was a single card: The Lovers.

You couldn’t help but laugh, the sound light and joyous. — See? I told you.

Sevika smirked, brushing her thumb over your cheek. — Maybe the cards know a thing or two.

And with that, the night gave way to something new, something bright, something undeniably yours.

ㅤㅤㅤ

#arcane #sevika x reader #sevika arcane #sevika #fem reader

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spoofymcgee · 6 months ago

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She feels Hermes arrive more than anything; the flutter of his wings against her skin. He's picked her bad side to appear on, and she's not sure whether it's forgetfulness–doubts it, as Hermes is shrewder than he likes to appear, but usually more considerate as well.

He doesn't say anything, though, content to be a presence sitting next to her and another pair of heels kicking off the side of the cliff.

Ithaca has become something of a hotspot for gods these days, and she doesn't know whether it's because of herself or Odysseus. Telemachus, perhaps, finding wayward deities off on his journey and sending them home for her to deal with. If it is, she might have to shake him next time he comes back.

*He'd have been better as your student," Athena says, finally, once they've watched Odysseus fleece two more sailors cocky enough to challenge the king, and sneak four coin pouches, six hats and nine knives off the spectators in the process. He'll give them all back at the end, but he seems like he's enjoying the challenge, and Penelope sits a polite distance away chatting with the captains' wives and occasionally glancing over to grin at him.

"Who?" Hermes says, like the answer isn't obvious. "Oh, Odysseus? Darling, where in the world did you get that conclusion from? Does Persephone have a new sort of flower she's growing, and if so, where can I get some?"

"Don't be an idiot," Athena tells him, but it doesn't come out half as annoyed as she'd meant. Damn, she really is going soft. "I mean it. Look, he's perfect for you, and you wouldn't have led him astray like I did."

"Do me a favor and don't try and foist your pupils off onto me," Hermes says, checking his nails in the sunlight. He's been down in the Levant again recently, she sees; they're colored a faint orange with darker, intricate designs twisting up his knuckles.

"I'm not," she says, feeling the feathers framing her face ruffle in indignation. "He's mine for as long as he'll have me. I'm only saying, if things were different..."

"But they're not," Hermes says flatly, looking up at her. "We live here and now, dear. Besides, if he was my student he would have been even sneakier, and no one would have taken that well. He wouldn't have made it past the age of twenty, and he wouldn't have been brave enough or good enough to protect his family."

"You can't know that," Athena protests, though her hand drifts absently to the edge of her scar.

"And neither can you," he points out, pulling one foot up to tuck under the opposite thigh. "So stop trying. Odysseus is home, Athena. By the looks of it, you are too. You're not doing anyone a favor by living in the past."

She looks down at her hands, twisting in her lap.

"You're a warrior," he says, voice softening. "You've never given up in your whole life. Don't let yourself lose this battle just because you're fighting your own brain."

The breeze is cool on her face, and she grits her teeth as matching tears slip off her chin and land on her chiton. "Alright."

"Good," Hermes says, and hits the cliff with his heel hard enough to send him twirling into the air, sandals fluttering. "Now, take me to where the olives are, I'm positively starving." He holds his hand out like a princess waiting to have it kissed, the other wrist pressed to his brow with his head thrown back, and she can't help but laugh. He's kind enough to ignore how wet it sounds.

"We can't have that, can we?" she says, and launches herself past him fast enough to send him spinning, and doesn't need to look back to tell he's chasing her–the playful outrage is loud enough even for her to hear.

#epic odysseus #epic athena #epic the musical #epic the ithaca saga #epic the musical fanfic #my writing #godly tourists au #i might write more of this or i might not #epic hermes

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judgedarts · 10 months ago

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after 1 billion years.. my shop has finally been updated!!

⭐shop link⭐

i'm most excited to debut my ygo plush coin pouches and liquid shaker charms! the coin pouches have been in development for quite a while and i wanted them to be 1000% ready before showing off any photos 🥺 thank you so much for your guys' patience, and i really hope everything is to your liking!! <33 you can read further below for some thoughts for future products:

thanks for clicking! this year has been really challenging trying to balance cons and finding a routine, and also trying to update my store so i really appreciate you guys for sticking around and being so patient regardless :,) and speaking of the plushies, they genuinely did take 1 year from initial sketches to final product development @_@ this was my first time attempting plush, and i unfortunately chose to do incredibly complicated designs haha.. the amount of back and forth i did with multiple suppliers, trying to fix minute details, all the late nights and frustration was still worth it, because i think they came out really phenomenally 😭❤️ill also be attempting to create samples for a joey, kaiba, jaden, and yusei coin pouch. im honestly a little scared of the yusei design i came up with, but i have a vision that i want to achieve despite the challenges i see up ahead 🫡 ive also been meaning to expand my ygo crossbody bag line this year, but the plushies genuinely took up so much of my time that i couldn't allocate more time/energy into starting them. i already know what i want the GX and 5DS bags to look like, so please stay tuned! im aiming to have preorders for them ready by early 2025. i want to rep a jack atlas bag SO bad i will frow up!!!! i also wanted to try out these liquid shaker charms! ive always wanted to make something like this so im really thrilled with how they came out - im planning on adding more characters to this lineup since they're i can draw the little chibis pretty fast! for non ygo fanmerch - i would love to phase out some jojos items and make merch for some nostalgic video game/anime i enjoyed growing up!! as for comics... please also stay tuned! im really looking forward to prioritizing some sequential art going into 2025. i hope yall will also look forward to my shortbox comic T_T<3! thank you if you read all of this, it really means a lot!

#yugioh #saiki k #dr stone #mairimashita iruma kun #the jojolands #sorry to tag those when a majority of the post is yugioh.... rofl

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elliestwoleftfingerss · 1 month ago

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simon teaching you how to play pool when you randomly tell him you haven't played before.

you'd met the lieutenant at your local bar just a few hours prior, where he'd come and taken a seat beside you at the bar. you're too pretty to be sat alone, he thought, and he came to nurse his own drink in the seat next to yours.

you felt like you could talk to him for hours. which was what you did. he was effortless, easily carrying the conversation along without so much as a long-lasted pause. when you took a look around the bar and set your sights on the billiards table, you casually mentioned that nobody had taught you how to play.

simon took that as a challenge, picking up his glass and gesturing with his index and middle finger for you to follow him. sliding out of your seat, you walked after the man as he shouldered through the pub.

he took a few pound coins from his wallet and slotted them into the table, the sound of balls clanging music to his ears. he hunched down under the table as you gathered two pool sticks, grabbing the coloured balls and the plastic rack that was tucked underneath the wooden frame.

he arranged the black, red, and yellow balls into the rack, slowly pulling up the plastic triangle once the instruments were lined up in an even three-sided shape. he set the white ball down in its designated spot, before gathering a pool cue from you.

it was like second nature to him when he leaned over the table and lined the tip of his cue up with the white ball. his elbow came back a little before he jabbed the stick forward, sending the ball skitting toward the triangle. the collection of coloured balls immediately split, darting in various directions.

you watched on with silent amazement, leaning against your own stick as you wondered how he made it look so easy. you also couldn't help noticing the way his t-shirt stretched across his broad shoulders as he folded over, muscles rippling with the movement of his strong arms.

"your turn," his gruff voice pulled you from your not-so-innocent thoughts, and you automatically took a step forward.

noticing how you weren't quite sure where to stand, the lieutenant gave a laugh. the sound grumbled deep in his chest, rolling up his throat and sweeping over you in a warm wave.

he balanced his cue against the side of the billiards table before he approached you. "it's easy," he told you. "like this..."

simon stepped up behind you, the firm plane of his chest pressing against your back. you felt the stubble on his face tickle your cheek, and his scent - smoke, scotch, and slightly musky - overrun your senses like a drug in the system.

his large hands ran down your arms until he reached your hands, his large figure behind you pressing into your back. he guided you down over the table, whispering in your ear. "relax..."

author's note: the fuck you mean i can write something that isn't angst? i don't even KNOW where this came from bruh.

i profusely apologise that this is the only thing i've posted in months. i'm smack bang in the middle of exam season and my brain is clogged with shiiiiit (this legit came from halfway down my drafts and it isn't even finished, but we don't talk about that).

ENJOY POOKARINOS!

#elliestwoleftfingers #simon riley #simon ghost riley #ghost #ghost call of duty #ghost cod #simon riley call of duty #simon riley cod #task force 141 #simon riley x reader #simon ghost riley x reader #ghost x reader #cod x reader #bitch who tf

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caldera1000-7 · 4 months ago

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Continuation or more of a clean-up of my previous post, with less imagery.

One possible reason for Akutagawa's actions could be that he has come to see value in a life beyond his own. In Beast, we saw him attempting to teach those who killed his friends the value of life through killing them. However, in doing so, he lost his own way and failed to recognize that he never truly demonstrated the value of his sister’s life—or even his own—due to his recklessness. By the time he realized this, it was too late and took a lot of...well beast's drama to make him realize that, and ultimately the way he thinks and the psychology used in beast is one of the best portrayals of akutagawa as a character.

In the current timeline, of the mainline manga, to do with the above image, the answer may lie in the idea that, after everything, he has come to see value in Atsushi’s life: a life other than his own, someone similar yet fundamentally different—a true counterpart, the other side of the coin.

This could be seen as a way for Akutagawa to, in a sense, save himself or his past self. Unlike when he expressed being glad for Kyouka, this time, it is different. Here, his actions seem to reflect a profound shift, one where he acknowledges the importance of another’s survival beyond his own goals and desires.

Dazai himself stated that he knew why Akutagawa would save Atsushi. Throughout the series, it has been evident how much the two have grown from their dynamic and how their relationship has evolved. Beast provided further insight into how they might function even as friends. Their role as the successful Soukoku is something particularly compelling. Looking at previous partnerships—Mori and Fukuzawa, who stand in stark contrast and could never work together; Dazai and Chuuya, who were forced into collaboration despite their differences but remained reliable comrades when it counted—we see how these pairings reflect their respective dynamics. In contrast, Akutagawa and Atsushi embody the Yin-Yang balance. Their designs alone reinforce this contrast, illustrating how they either complement or challenge each other. While SSKK (Shin-Soukoku) may not be the best term for their unique balance, their development is undeniably profound.

From the very beginning, Akutagawa and Atsushi’s interactions have been charged with conflict, misunderstanding, and eventual growth. Akutagawa was shaped by Dazai’s ruthless mentorship, learning to equate strength with worth and mercilessness with survival. Atsushi, on the other hand, struggled with deep-seated self-loathing instilled by the orphanage director’s abuse, believing he was unworthy of love or existence. Their clashes stemmed from these core beliefs—Akutagawa saw Atsushi as a weakling unfit to be recognized by Dazai, while Atsushi saw Akutagawa as a monster incapable of redemption. However, their battles forced them to confront these misconceptions. Over time, they each began to understand that their value was not defined by Dazai’s recognition, nor by how they were treated in the past. Instead, their growth came from the challenges they faced together.

Many theories surround Akutagawa’s memory loss, but here, he is undeniably fulfilling the role of a protector—mirroring the ideals of Knight Akutagawa. Looking back, he has always had a protective streak, as seen with his deceased friends in the slums. Furthermore, Rashomon is not only an offensive ability but also a defensive one, reflecting his dual nature—capable of shielding both himself and others. This aligns with his evolution as a character, one who has always been a guardian in his own way, even if it wasn’t always apparent. Additionally, Rashomon’s adaptability is a direct parallel to Akutagawa himself; while he initially wielded it purely as a weapon of destruction, as it is shown to be, to devour everything in its way. But it also protects him with its shielding and defensive capabilities, and a knight both fights and defends for others - but besides that and making any connections there I would have to say, we all could already see his ability comes from - his coat, his clothes, his "protection" which he feels to vulnerable without (reason why he doesn't like baths.) And not to mention the moment where Dazai shot him 3 times for failing a mission and Rashomon automatically acted to defend him. His character is built on themes of survival, how the environment shaped him etc. afterall.

Akutagawa’s death had a significant impact on Atsushi, not just from a shipping perspective, but from a purely narrative and analytical standpoint. This moment is one of the most defining in the series. It also makes complete sense that Akutagawa would regain some—or even all—of his memories afterward. He had spent so long fixated on killing Atsushi, with their agreement hinging on his ability to refrain from taking lives for six months before their ultimate confrontation. This duel, if it still occurs, could parallel their fight in Beast in a meaningful way.

This act of self-sacrifice marks a crucial turning point for Akutagawa. His life had been centered on pursuing his wants, achieving his goals—many of which were rooted in selfishness. This mirrors Atsushi in some ways, especially since they both do an action (killing/getting stronger or saving lives) to give their life meaning or for feeling accepted into the world, which are both endless paths which they both need self-growth on to get to a better point (also I believe akutagawa could be going the Odasaku route which I am excited for but lets not get too into that.)

However, for the first time, this was an entirely selfless act. He wasn’t seeking personal validation or a step toward his own ambitions; he was protecting someone. Not just someone, but someone he had deemed worthy of being saved. Someone who deserved to live because he had finally come to understand, at least somewhat after this, the value of others’ lives truly, instead of from a survival kind of "the weak die, die and make way for others" which he grew up with not just in the mafia but in the slums too where it was said his lungs would burn and the people "above" would "look down" on them but never truly acknowledge their existence, its sad to think even after Dazai found him he never really showed akutagawa that he acknowledges his strength or how far he has gone really, but this itself has many theories and arguments over reasons and potentially the plot moving forward with their characters and Dazai's reasonings. Anyways, this is why Akutagawa "woke up" when Atsushi sacrificed himself, repeating the same words Akutagawa once did. It was a moment of profound narrative symmetry, one that encapsulates Akutagawa’s arc.

A notable mention here is 55 Minutes, which further supports the idea of Akutagawa’s memory resilience. Despite dying in flames, after time was reversed, he retained memories of events that theoretically never happened. He remembered the exact time of the disaster and even made a point to check on Higuchi around that same time. This suggests that certain experiences impact him so deeply that they imprint on his consciousness, even when they logically shouldn’t. A similar phenomenon can be observed with Vampire Akutagawa. Despite being under vampiric control, he retained fragments of his consciousness—spared Aya, responded to Atsushi’s words, and, most significantly, kept his promise. Vampirism should have rendered him a mindless tool, yet even then, his core principles remained intact.

This aligns with a recurring theme in Akutagawa’s character: his defiance against being controlled. He has always been a "dog" to the Mafia, yet one that could never be fully tamed. His ability to retain memories and emotions, even under extreme circumstances, reinforces his complexity as a character. This trait plays a pivotal role in his development, ultimately shaping his choices and his final, selfless decision to protect Atsushi. And of course, all of this ties back to Dazai…

Ahem, his eyes. Besides being glorious and magnificent, I've been thinking and spoke to a friend recently on this. It seems his eyes only turn white when he is scared, vulnerable, or determined in the right direction (when he said "understood" to bram there was a light in his eyes.) And we all know Harukawa's genius and interesting way of making eyes go from dark to light showing their development or a change in their views too. The darkness showing how "tainted" they are or "dark" themselves. To which Kyouka used to have dark eyes that turned light (actually kind of grey) and Dazai's is still black. Akutagawa's has also been black/dark a lot of the time, and usually when he is shocked we see his dark/black eyes shrink in surprise unlike this moment where we see the light in it and his pupil for once. So its an important moment, especially since this is where he iss regaining some if not all of his memories. Although we still need clearance on what happened to him which would be shown in the next chapters after the whole S03 4D universe lore is done dropping completely, or possibly after the Amenogozen battle. Thats all for now from The Akutagawa Fan, Charkoala, Caldera whichever name or title works.

#Bungo Stray Dogs #Bungou Stray Dogs #bsd chapter 121 #bsd chapter 121.5 #bsd chapter 88 #bsd akutagawa #akutagawa ryuunosuke #bsd dazai #bsd atsushi #bsd abilities #bsd theory #bsd analysis #bsd thoughts #bsd manga #bsd spoilers #bsd 55 minutes #bsd beast #bsd mainline manga #bungo stray dogs

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empyrealoasis · 5 months ago

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Scripting Guide to World Building for Shifters 𓍯𓂃𓏧☾

This guide is designed for individuals who find scripting challenging and are looking for a thorough, step-by-step approach to help bring their desired reality to life. It aims to cover a wide range of essential elements, providing detailed prompts and questions to encourage creative thinking and help you craft a unique, immersive, and well-rounded script. Whether you're a beginner or someone who wants to refine their scripting process, this guide offers plenty of ideas and suggestions to ensure nothing important is overlooked. *Character Design Guide

1. The Foundation of Your Reality

Name and Significance:

What is the name of your reality?

Does it have a deeper meaning?

Who named it—its creators, the first settlers, or an external observer?

Shape and Structure:

Is your world a sphere, a flat plane, or something unconventional (e.g., a ringworld, floating islands)?

Does it exist in a single dimension, or does it span multiple dimensions or planes of existence?

Existence and Origin:

How did your world come into existence? Was it created by a divine force, a scientific anomaly, or natural evolution?

What events or forces shaped its current state?

Purpose of This World:

Why does this world exist? Is it a sanctuary, a testing ground, a haven for life, or something else?

Universal Rules:

What are the governing laws of nature (gravity, time, physics)?

Are there any unusual or contradictory rules (e.g., time flows backward in some regions)?

How is reality itself maintained? Is it fragile or robust?

2. Geography and Environment

Global Layout:

How many continents or landmasses exist? What are their names, and what defines each one?

Are there unique planetary features (e.g., floating continents, endless oceans, underground realms)?

Terrain and Landscapes:

What are the major biomes (e.g., deserts, forests, mountains)?

Are there distinct geological phenomena like volcanoes, crystal caves, or floating mountains?

Weather and Seasons:

How many seasons does your world experience?

Are weather patterns predictable, chaotic, or controlled by external forces?

Are there unique weather events, such as glowing auroras, rains of gemstones, or storm systems with sentience?

Natural Resources:

What resources are available (metals, magical crystals, exotic plants)?

Are these resources renewable, or is scarcity a driving force?

Flora and Fauna:

What types of plants dominate different regions?

Are there bioluminescent forests, carnivorous trees, or crops that grow overnight?

What creatures inhabit this world?

Are they based on Earth animals or entirely new creations?

Do any creatures have unique abilities, like shapeshifting or teleportation?

Are any species sentient or capable of communication with humans?

3. Societies and Cultures

Civilizations and Nations:

How many civilizations or nations exist?

What are their defining characteristics (e.g., technological, magical, or cultural)?

Do they have alliances, rivalries, or a history of conflict?

Cultural Diversity:

How do cultures differ across regions?

What are the dominant values or ideologies (e.g., honor, freedom, progress)?

Traditions and Celebrations:

What holidays, festivals, or religious events are celebrated?

Are there seasonal or celestial events that inspire rituals or ceremonies?

How do people mark milestones like birth, coming of age, marriage, or death?

Daily Life:

What does a typical day look like for an average person?

How do people spend their mornings, afternoons, and evenings?

Social Hierarchy:

Are societies egalitarian, hierarchical, or merit-based?

What determines social status (birth, wealth, achievements, magical ability)?

Languages and Communication:

How many languages are spoken?

What are some common greetings, idioms, or phrases?

Are there unique ways of communication (e.g., sign language, telepathy, or written symbols)?

Economy and Trade:

What is the primary form of currency (coins, barter, energy)?

What are the main exports and imports?

How do trade routes function, and are they safe?

Art and Expression:

What forms of art are popular (music, painting, sculpture)?

Are there unique styles or materials used?

Are artists respected or marginalized?

4. Technology and Tools

Technological Level:

Is the technology futuristic, medieval, steampunk, or something else entirely?

Are there advanced machines, or is everything handcrafted?

Energy Sources:

What powers technology (electricity, magic, sunlight, emotional energy)?

Are energy sources renewable or finite?

Transportation:

How do people and goods travel? Examples: flying ships, teleportation gates, sentient mounts.

Are roads, waterways, or air routes the primary mode of transportation?

Weapons and Defense:

What weapons are used in combat (swords, plasma guns, enchanted bows)?

How do people protect themselves (armor, force fields, magical wards)?

Everyday Tools and Gadgets:

What devices simplify daily life?

Are there any tools unique to specific professions?

5. Conflict and Tension

Global Conflicts:

Is the world at peace or in turmoil?

What are the sources of conflict (land, power, ideology, survival)?

Factions and Alliances:

Who are the key factions (nations, guilds, rebel groups)?

What are their goals and motivations?

Are there neutral groups or individuals playing both sides?

Villains and Threats:

Is there a singular antagonist or multiple threats?

Examples: a tyrannical ruler, an ancient curse, a rogue AI.

What motivates these threats, and are they sympathetic or purely evil?

Natural Disasters and Catastrophes:

Are there global events like earthquakes, super volcanoes, or dimensional rifts?

How do societies prepare for or respond to these events?

Internal Tensions:

Are there class struggles, political corruption, or religious divides?

How do ordinary people cope with these tensions?

6. Magic or Unique Elements

Magical Laws:

What is the source of magic (nature, gods, ancient artifacts)?

Are there limits to its use, or does it come at a cost?

Unique Elements:

What sets your world apart from others?

Example: A sun that whispers secrets to those who listen at dawn.

Artifacts and Relics:

Are there legendary items with immense power?

What are their origins, and who seeks to possess them?

7. Geography and Aesthetic Details

Architecture and Urban Design:

What do cities and villages look like?

Are buildings made of stone, metal, wood, or unconventional materials like glass or bone?

Fashion and Clothing:

What fabrics, colors, and patterns are most common?

Are clothes purely functional, highly decorative, or symbolic?

Cuisine and Food:

What are the staple foods in your world?

Are there exotic dishes or drinks with unique effects?

How are meals prepared, and what utensils are used?

8. Time and Progression

Calendar and Timekeeping:

How is time tracked? Are there hours, days, weeks, or unique cycles?

Are there celestial events that mark time (e.g., eclipses, comet passes)?

Aging and Lifespan:

How long do beings live?

Are there rituals for different life stages?

Historical Eras:

What are the major historical periods?

Are there legendary figures or events still celebrated or mourned?

Future Vision:

How do inhabitants imagine their world will change over centuries?

Are there prophecies or predictions about the future?

9. The Metaphysical Nature of the World

Spiritual Layer:

Is there an afterlife or spirit realm?

Can living beings interact with the spiritual plane (e.g., through rituals, dreams, or certain locations)?

Are ghosts, spirits, or other ethereal entities common?

Soul Mechanics:

Do beings in your world have souls or life energy?

Can souls be transferred, trapped, destroyed, or reborn?

Are there beings without souls?

Fate and Destiny:

Is there a predetermined fate or free will?

Are there entities (oracles, gods, etc.) that oversee fate?

How do people view destiny—something revered, feared, or ignored?

10. Communication Across the World

Long-Distance Communication:

How do people communicate over vast distances (messenger birds, magical crystals, telepathy)?

Are there communication hubs or networks, such as magical relay towers or ancient devices?

Media and Information:

Are there newspapers, magical projections, or digital networks?

How is news spread—by word of mouth, official channels, or clandestine organizations?

Are propaganda or misinformation prevalent?

Secret or Forgotten Knowledge:

Are there lost languages, forbidden texts, or ancient knowledge hidden in remote places?

Who guards or seeks these secrets, and what are their motives?

11. Ecology and Environmental Balance

Ecosystem Dynamics:

How do species interact in your world? Are there predator-prey relationships?

Is there a balance between nature and civilization, or is one dominating the other?

Environmental Hazards:

Are there toxic zones, cursed lands, or areas where the laws of nature break down?

How do inhabitants adapt to or avoid these regions?

Conservation and Exploitation:

Do societies in your world care about preserving the environment?

Are there organizations or individuals dedicated to protecting endangered species or sacred places?

12. Entertainment and Recreation

Games and Sports:

What are the most popular games or physical activities?

Are there unique sports or competitions tied to the culture or geography of the world?

Storytelling and Literature:

What forms of storytelling exist (oral traditions, books, holograms)?

Are there legendary tales or epics passed down through generations?

Performing Arts:

What kinds of music, dance, or theater are popular?

Are there magical or technological enhancements to performances?

Leisure and Pastimes:

How do people relax—hot springs, meditation, board games, or hunting?

Are there communal spaces, like taverns or virtual reality lounges, for socializing?

13. Health, Medicine, and Healing

Healthcare Systems:

How do societies manage illness and injury?

Are there healers, clinics, or magical remedies?

Diseases and Cures:

What are the most common illnesses or ailments?

Are there unique diseases that require special cures, rituals, or sacrifices?

Mental Health:

How is mental health viewed and treated?

Are there unique psychological conditions tied to the world’s magic, technology, or history?

14. Cosmic and Celestial Elements

Astronomy and Sky Features:

How many moons, stars, or celestial objects are visible in the sky?

Are there constellations with cultural or religious significance?

Space Exploration:

Is the world aware of other planets or galaxies?

Do inhabitants explore beyond their world, or is it a mystery?

Celestial Beings:

Are there deities, angels, or cosmic entities tied to the heavens?

Do celestial events (eclipses, meteor showers) have magical or prophetic significance?

15. Economics and Labor

Workforce and Professions:

What are the most common jobs or careers?

Are there unique professions tied to the world’s magic, geography, or history?

Trade Networks:

How do goods and resources move across regions?

Are there monopolies, trade guilds, or underground markets?

Currency and Wealth:

What is the currency, and how is wealth measured?

Are there alternative economies, like magical exchanges or something unique to your world?

16. Education and Knowledge

Education Systems:

How is education structured (schools, apprenticeships, guilds)?

Is education accessible to all or limited to the elite?

Libraries and Archives:

Are there grand libraries, hidden archives, or magical repositories of knowledge?

How is knowledge preserved or restricted?

Teachers and Scholars:

Who are the educators and intellectuals in this world?

Are they revered, feared, or ignored?

17. Personal Identity and Expression

Names and Naming Conventions:

How are people named? Are there family names, titles, or unique traditions?

Do names have symbolic or magical significance?

Fashion and Appearance:

How do people express individuality through clothing, hairstyles, or accessories?

Are there cultural taboos about certain colors, patterns, or styles?

Identity and Status:

How do individuals define themselves (by lineage, achievements, or beliefs)?

Are there cultural markers of status, such as tattoos, jewelry, or magical auras?

18. Laws and Governance

Types of Government:

Are there monarchies, democracies, theocracies, or something unique?

How much power does the government wield over individuals?

Legal Systems:

What are the major laws, and how are they enforced?

Are there courts, trials, or magical truth-telling devices?

Crime and Punishment:

What are common crimes, and how are they punished?

Are there vigilantes, bounty hunters, or corrupt officials?

19. Dreams and the Subconscious

Dreams and Their Role:

Do dreams have significance in your world?

Can people share dreams or enter each other’s subconscious?

Nightmares and Fears:

Are there entities or forces that prey on people’s fears?

Can nightmares manifest physically?

Dreamscapes:

Are there alternate realities accessible only through dreaming?

Can dreamers control or manipulate their dreams?

20. Time and Memory

Perception of Time:

Does time flow uniformly or differently in various regions or dimensions?

Are there time loops, anomalies, or portals to other eras?

Memory and History:

How is history recorded or remembered?

Are there people or artifacts that preserve memories?

Can memories be altered, stolen, or erased?

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9151967 · 4 months ago

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The thing that is still getting to me about TMP is how it as much about Spock's acceptance of himself and the unknowable (because logic is that which can be known, logic seeks to know but not necessarily understand) as it is about the Triumvirate learning that they cannot be separated, that they each need each other to be at their best, both as civilians and within Starfleet.

Kirk accepts a promotion out of active service and into the admiralty and the trio falls apart. McCoy protests his decision and Starfleet's choice to offer/push the promotion and leaves the service entirely. Spock leaves the service as well and returns to Vulcan to undergo the Kolinahr as a means to protect himself - from a future pon farr, prove his Vulcan nature rules out over his hybrid status (his main point of conflict/shame, always), and forget those illogical humans that brought emotions out of him now that he will be living among other Vulcans. It was a logical decision for him to make, but he has been irrevocably changed from the five year mission more than he would like to admit (another point of shame and regret).

Kirk doesn't fully come back into the captaincy until Spock returns. He is still mired by doubts owing to the Enterprise's new design, his years out of space, and Decker's presence as a living symbol of Kirk's own decision to leave the Enterprise as Kirk chose Decker to be his successor. (There's a lot to be said about how Kirk projects these fears and doubts onto Decker, how Decker is a parallel to Kirk as Ilia is a parallel to Spock, but that's ultimately what Kirk is struggling against - he chose to leave (albeit with a healthy dose of manipulation as per Roddenberry's novelization; I'm torn about how Roddenberry wrote that in because while it does make sense for how Starfleet could still operate if humans on Earth are so open-minded and peaceful, it detracts from making it Kirk's own choice when TOS has shown that Kirk has made mistakes, has acted selfishly, cannot stand being told what to do or have his authority challenged, not even by McCoy or Spock). He chose his successor. But he was miserable in an Earthbound life and trying to come back to it all - to "return home again" or repeat the past - is something that is not possible to do, no matter how much one wants it. Even the ship he knew and loved is no longer the same. The Enterprise Kirk knew exists only in his memories.)

McCoy acts more as Kirk's doctor than his friend until Spock returns, and rightfully so given the profile he had compiled on him, in addition to Chapel's profile when she acted as the CMO (I love that the novelization makes it clear that she happily gave the position back to McCoy because it meant handing Kirk over to someone who knows how to get through to him, lol. Pour one out for Christine Chapel for taking on the worst job). There are moments that show they have made up or at least called truce, but this McCoy is through with using alcohol to loosen Kirk up to his suggestions and just presses forward with his observations and recommendations, no matter how harsh they may be, to the point of outwardly saying that Kirk may not be fit for command due to his obsession with returning to and keeping the Enterprise. They've bucked heads before in the series over Kirk's behavior and decisions, but this is occurring after they haven't seen each other in years. Time may have passed but the wounds heal slow. (I wonder how much of it felt like a betrayal to McCoy for Kirk to go his own way - a betrayal of McCoy's expertise, a betrayal of Kirk's own skills, a betrayal of their relationship because neither McCoy or Spock can follow him into the higher ranks.)

There's a lot to be said about Kirk acting as the fulcrum that links McCoy and Spock together - who else could bridge that gap between their guiding philosophies, unite two people who are ultimately the same coin but working from different sides (doctor versus scientist) - so when he leaves, the other two leave as well. But TMP shows Spock bringing them back together to the way they were, even before he melds with V'ger and learns that logic is not enough. Spock brings out their humanity, be it by the memories he conjures or in reaction to his new Kolinahr-inspired distance.

#star trek the motion picture #star trek the motion picture novelization #star trek tmp #jim kirk #leonard mccoy #spock #the triumvirate #mcspirk #trek meta #walked into tmp knowing about spirk's “this simple feeling” + the hand grasp but left it to wallow in mcspirk misery #going to be thinking about their fight forever regardless of its possible catalyst - that spock confessed and kirk ran from his love #i do still need to finish reading the novelization. i got sidetracked by feelings and the attempt to process them #(this is the tip of that iceberg. surak help me i have a fanvid in the works about mcspirk and how they were vs what tmp shows.)

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literaryvein-reblogs · 5 months ago

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Some Pop Culture Terms

Brat - someone who is confidently rebellious, unapologetically bold, and playfully defiant. This new definition celebrates individuality and a carefree attitude, often with a hint of sass and a love for fun. Being labeled “a brat” or “bratty” in this context is more of a compliment, recognizing a person’s ability to challenge norms and express themselves freely without concern for conventional expectations. It is widely used by fans of Charli XCX and similar artists, as well as by individuals who identify with the rebellious, free-spirited attitude it represents.

Clickbait - describes misleading internet content or shocking headline titles that aim to drive traffic to a website. Since 2017, clickbait has been used in tandem with another internet term fake news, as fake news stories are often dressed as clickbait.

Clout chaser - a critical term for a person who is thought to be intent on attaining fame, especially one who tries to do so in ways considered desperate, such as leveraging their proximity to famous people or doing things considered foolish, degrading, or dangerous. It seems to have emerged on social media around 2012.

Compulsion loop - (or core loop) is a cycle of activities that are encouraged to be looped or repeated because of a neurochemical reward (in the form of dopamine) released into your brain. In other words, it’s when you continuously do something because it provides pleasure. Evidence for the phrase compulsion loop dates to the 1990s, though it was applied to technology at least by 2001. If you’ve ever checked your Snapchat, then Twitter, then Instagram, then Snapchat again because, well, it’s been ten minutes and maybe something new came in, then you’ve gotten stuck in a compulsion loop. This happens when you are compelled–often by design–to habitually repeat an activity, especially on the internet or a video game, because it gives you pleasure. And the tech companies know it.

Dream gap - describes a phenomenon where young girls, due to social constructions that women are less capable and valuable than men, are held back from living up to their full potential. It’s notably featured in the Dream Gap Campaign, toymaker Mattel’s efforts to empower young girls.

Grandfluencer - an older influencer, especially one who seems at least old enough to be a grandparent. The popular sense of the word influencer refers to a person who’s known for being influential due to having a large social media following. Though the age of people considered or called grandfluencers varies widely, the term is most often applied to people who are older than 60. It is thought to have been popularized in part by a September 2021 Associated Press article that prominently used the term to discuss the growing trend of older people developing large social media followings.

Mermaid effect - coined by the sitcom How I Met Your Mother, states that, the more time a man spends with a woman, the more he’ll find her sexually attractive–even if he initially finds her unattractive. It’s also sometimes used to refer to a trend in beauty featuring such styles as holographic pastels or mermaid-inspired details. It’s related to a real phenomenon in psychology. The mere-exposure effect says that humans are more likely to develop a preference to familiar things.

Pay it forward - an expression for when the recipient of an act of kindness does something kind for someone else rather than simply accepting or repaying the original good deed.

Pretzel logic - an expression used to describe someone’s “twisted reasoning.” The term spread in the 1980–90s, but it is closely associated with the acclaimed 1974 album and title track Pretzel Logic by rock band Steely Band. The song is, apparently, about reckoning with the passage of time.

Weeping Angel - a type of monster with the capability of sending others back in time by touching them. They are unable to move while being watched by any living creature, including their own kind, and are turned into stone while an observer’s eye is on them. It first appeared in the 2007 Doctor Who episode “Blink.” The episode’s title comes from the advice the Doctor gives: “Don’t blink. Blink and you’re dead. They are fast. Faster than you can believe. Don’t turn your back. Don’t look away. And don’t blink. Good Luck.”

Source ⚜ More: Word Lists ⚜ Writing Resources PDFs

#requested #pop culture #writeblr #writing reference #langblr #word list #writing prompt #spilled ink #dark academia #writers on tumblr #literature #linguistics #language #internet #creative writing #writing inspiration #writing ideas #dialogue #writing resources

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changingplumbob · 2 months ago

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Day twelve - Luther group part 1/2

@bakersimmer, @berrysims-lp, @daedriyth, @hashimasims, @invisiblequeen, @lostinsixam

A new day in the villa! Coins are flipped for if contestants will brush their teeth and a wheel is spun for type of shower.

For breakfast contestants were instructed to grab a plate of food then left to make their own choices while autonomy was set to full. Room doors were locked in the morning to deter computer use. Deanna complimented the outfit of each contestant in order of when they arrived to eat.

Abby, Kristina and Kay all show off some new outfits. Abby has some strong gloom this morning so Kristina and Nephinae try to cheer her up by reminding her it's love day! Well a love day. After breakfast Alaina heads outside for some solo simbles while Abby, Nathalie and Kristina keep chatting with Deanna. Nephinae drags her emotional support bestie Kay upstairs for some table tennis before they have to leave the villa for the challenge.

Devin: Welcome to your second challenge. This one was chosen by Joey, little brother to me, older brother to Deanna. Joey wants to get in to designing and releasing his own games, his debut game has been very successful, so you could say he's a tech head. You will be split in to two groups and play party frenzy. Joey, Deanna and I will watch. The person who wins the most games in each team will get a solo date this afternoon. If there is a tie Joey will assess who in the team has the best video gaming skills

Teams were randomised and are... Team 1: Alaina, Kay, Nephinae Team 2: Nathalie, Abigail, Kristina Yes I know this is the same pair of trios as bowling but it's what rolling the numbers gave us.

Alaina (voiceover): *rolls eyes*

Kay (voiceover): *puts fists in front of her and shakes them with excitement* Awesome! I get to level up my gaming skill!

Nephinae (voiceover): Have fun? I can do that in my sleep!

Nathalie (voiceover): I don't know Joey very well, but this seems exactly like the kind of thing he would pick.

Abigail (voiceover): Heck yeah! Now this is my jam! *grins excitedly*

Kristina (voiceover): Is that a video game? I'm not exactly a gamer, but I'll give it my best shot. Let's see what happens.

Growing up the York siblings often played video games, challenging each other to contests for fun. Joey felt like whoever wanted to woo his sister needed to have some understanding of how virtual games work so this was his first challenge choice.

For team 1 it was a tie between Alaina and Kay, but Joey determined Kay had a better grasp of the game. Weirdly in team two all three ladies somehow lost? No matter, Joey deduced that Abby had the highest video gaming skill.

Alaina: *scoffs*

Nephinae: …. but did I look good doing it?

Kristina: Yeah, okay, there were definitely people who've clearly played a lot more than me

Nathalie: Honestly I think I did quite well for someone who barely knows her way around a controller. I just hope this doesn't set me too far back.

#DatingDeanna #DatingDeannaRound1 #sims 4 #the sims #simblr #my sims #ts4 #active simblr

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starillusion13 · 1 year ago

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ARRIBA (TEASER)

“Obsession is a dirty aspect to look at, but the night is dirtier, my love. Either we kill you or we kill the night. What you say?”

Pairing: Criminal! Ateez ot8 x f! Reader

W.C: 2.3k (Main plot: ???)

Genre: Smut, Strangers to Lovers(?), Thriller , Yandere

Warnings: sweet threats(lol), meeting strangers, agreeing/ doing something without your consent, inappropriate touch (a little), mention of gun(not for shooting), pervert looks of Ateez. There’s not really any warning for here other than these all. (Rest all the warnings to be announced in the main plot.)

Network: @k-vanity

"Who?"

"I don't know." The young girl groaned and held her forehead, elbow resting against the wooden table where different liquor bottles and designed glasses were placed. "Honestly, I haven't seen them before and I don't think they belong here or from anywhere near, where are they actually from?"

You asked again, sitting in the stool opposite to her, "and if so, then why are you so concerned about them? They might be attending our night party like other men from around."

"Noooo." She whined and sat straight, giving her full attention to you. She eyed your white and brown combination dress with the knife placed in the leathered strap holder of your waist. "They asked Mr. Byun for an arrangement." looking into your eyes directly, the words fell from her lips.

You knitted your brows together and leaned forward, "and what for?"

"They want to have a party here." She scoffed and raised a brow before mimicking your posture, leaning forward and whispered, "and there would be only them. No one else is allowed."

"Why are you whispering this?" You asked her but in a whisper. "Also, how can it be a party if they are the only ones attending it?"

"Right? No. That's not the case. They want someone to accompany them through the night. A well known and trusted person of Mr. Byun and he even agreed to it."

A frown appeared on your face, "who is accompanying them?"

"You."

"No way." You stood up and glared at her, "don't tell me you supported him in this."

She slowly nodded. She remembered all the words exchanged between the men and the owner of the grand tavern of the kingdom, Mr. Byun. She was there from the beginning till the end of the goodbyes shared. Not really a proper goodbye. She remembered how a man with sharp eyes placed a box on the table and slid across from him towards the old man, before smirking at him.

When she wanted to protest against it, another man, might be the oldest one among them because of the way others were addressing him, he glared and stared at her as if challenging her to dare to speak.

She gulped remembering the scene. The box had some gold coins and jewels and the old man happily accepted the gift.

She flinched when you tapped her shoulder, "where is he? I need to talk to him."

She shrugged and stood up, "I don't know. Might be planning for tomorrow night. Soon, he will call out for you."

"I'm going out to search for him. I'm not accompanying some men whom I have never seen. If it was to serve drinks like any other night in the presence of others then I would have no problem. But alone, that's a different story."

You turned around towards the door and when you were about to step forward, she grabbed your arm and made you face her, "they offered him a huge amount of money in advance and also they promised to pay him more."

"So?" you eyed her grip on you, it was like a warning but also a pleading to accept the situation you were currently into.

"He won't be backing off. You know Mr. Byun and his greediness for money. Do you think he will change his mind?" she loosened the grip, when your hand fell by your side dramatically.

Why suddenly the situation is like this? Just a few minutes back, you were okay with everything then how the situation turned into against you and you are left with nothing just to accept your coming fate. It's not like you can't run away from this, but if you do then the consequences won't be good. Serving the guests with drinks and some occasional dance is what helps you to earn for your living and even if you run away from here, where will you go? Nowhere. You haven't been to any other place, other than the outskirts of this village.

You stared at her for a while and when she was about to speak something, you raised your hand, stopping her midway, "tell him I will be here tomorrow evening. Before...before the men could arrive at the tavern."

"...okay." her eyes followed your figure leaving the grand fancy wooden door of the inn. She sighed and slumped back into the stool beside, rubbing her forehead and mumbled, "I don't know if it's going to be good or bad." suddenly, she smirked, "but I hope she will get one of them for herself. She doesn't have to be single anymore and they are so breathtaking...oh my god."

>>>><<<<

"Mr. Byun?"

Hearing your voice, he turned around with a smiling face and with quick steps, he strolled across the room to hold your hand and drag you inside. The more you explored your surroundings, the more you realized the men inside the room were all unfamiliar. You haven't seen those four faces ever and the way you were staring at them, it seemed sure that you were......attracted?.......curious? But they are literally attractive and breathtaking. Whatever. You averted your gaze back on the old man holding your wrist.

You could feel the four sets of eyes boring a hole in your figure but you didn't pay attention to them. Or rather, you didn't have the courage to do that. You were feeling so shy and exposed in the room, even when you were all covered and beautifully dressed up because you were planning to go to the market wit Miara and before that, you decided to meet the owner if he did need anything.

"Meet them, y/n. They are our new guests." he hummed and nodded towards them. You were questionably looking at him. Guests? And why do you have to meet them?

Hearing your name for the first time, they tasted the word again and on their lips. rolling their tongue lovingly to see how sweet it will feel and sound like to call you with the name. the name really suits you and they have to tell you to make you aware of it.

You casted a subtle glance towards them, before one of them could hold your gaze with him, you turned around quickly but still you noticed one of them smirked at your activity and the one near you whispered, "sweet." and you are sure, it was meant to be heard because the way someone behind you chuckled and the man in front of you joined in their play. "Isn't she sweet? She is the best worker of our inn and tavern. I know she will take good care of you all."

"Huh?" you were so confused with the way he was talking about you to those men in the room, "take care of them? Who are they? And I don't-"

The old man laughed cutting you mid sentence, "of they are the-"

"Wait." The tallest one of them stood straight from where he was leaning against a shelf. He was all in a brown and black pants with a brown long coat with several layers of clothing inside it.

He chuckled seeing your little scared expression which you were trying your best to hide from them with your strong facade, he noticed how your eyes were nervously looking around the room to avoid his gaze. The way you pulled your lip between your teeth and bit down on it, a groan escaped his throat and the dirty smirk grew on his face.

He stood tall in front of you. He looked taller when he was so close to you, you tilted your neck back slightly just to look at his face. "Well, I think I want to introduce myself to her." he looked at the man who was still holding your hand and noticed his grip, poking his tongue to the inner cheek, he said with no emotion, "I would like to have some space. No need for you, old man...ah wait what's again..."

another male, who was manspreading on the leathered and cushioned sofa spoke up, "Mr. Byun." and chuckled after giving away the old man's name.

"Yes, Mr. Byun. you can leave now. We can introduce ourselves to her." hearing the order from the man in front of you, he wasted no time to leave your hand and leave the room. Wow. he promised to give you shelter and keep you safe from the outside world, just to leave you to die in this dangerous inside world.

"Hello, pretty." he bent a little forward, his eyes scanning your face, a little mole on your chin. He touched it with his thumb and smiled. "You are really pretty when close to me."

Your mind was screaming to push him and step back. And you did listen to your mind, but to only one thing: to step back. He quickly grabbed your hand and again chuckled, "why are you running away, princess? We mean no harm." his other hand poked under your chin to make you look up. Wait! That feels like metal. Yes it is. A Gun. "or we mean harm." he pushed your chin up a little more and whispered, "but in a good way. By the way, I am Yunho."

you were staring at the ceiling in absolute fear.

"Yah...don't scare her." Someone separated you from the tall man who was smirking while standing a few steps back. The other male patted your cheeks and smiled, "I'm pretty sure if we introduce ourselves like that. She won't accompany us tomorrow."

You whispered, "tomorrow?"

"Yes. haven't you been informed about the party?" he asked and tilted his head, his eyes traveling down your whole figure. The thoughts running inside his head were more impure than his already dirty, flirtatious gaze on you. But his bright smile. Oh, if only Miara was here then she would have started talking with him this instance.

He was in a black tight pant and a loose black shirt hanging in his body with a black thin cotton belt around his neck. You have seen this style on some younger men in this area, "It costs a lot to look at me this long, sweet one."

You gulped and clutched your dress by your side, "I know about the party but..." so these are the men? That is why Miara was excited to see them again. "Well, this sexy and attractive face has a name, that's Wooyoung." he winked in the end.

The one manspreading on the sofa smirked and poured a drink into a single glass, only one-forth of it and took it in hold. He was in a pretty similar outfit like Yunho but his coat was light in color and shorter in length. The other glass in his other grip was half filled.

When he walked towards you, Wooyoung stepped aside for other one to come exactly in front of you. Well, the two who have already introduced themselves to you stood close enough to you to observe your small reactions to every little detailed movement of theirs. They were enjoying the control they had over you. They were satisfied to see how they were making you feel small in front of them.

The glass with little quantity of liquid was extended towards you, "Here a drink for you, my love. And, the name is Seonghwa." you grabbed it and eyed the liquid with confusion. "Not the drink. That's my name." you nodded absent-mindedly and he smiled sweetly at you, before brushing his fingers over your cheek, "i think I will enjoy the night a lot."

"Hm. me too." Wooyoung nodded and folded his hand.

Seonghwa made a clunk sound with your glasses and sipped the drink of his own. The last male, who whispered 'sweet' when Mr. Byun was there, stepped towards four of you, "drink it." there was an authority in his tone. His furry jacket with the fancy hat and leather pants, he seemed like to be extra fancy than others. As if his looks and how people would look up to him matters a lot.

"I...I don't drink." you mumbled.

"That's a good girl." the way the words sounded so attractive from his mouth and you felt like you were going to comply with every order dripping from his mouth but you scolded yourself. You are no one's property and without any reason, it's so wrong for someone to order you around except mr. Byun. "But a single sip won't matter."

You eyed the drink and glanced at him.

This time, Yunho spoke up and it had a demanding undertone, "drink it, princess. We usually don't repeat a word but for you...fine. We can be a bit dirty." He laughed afterwards.

After a mental battle of fighting yourself, you finally brought the glass to your lips. Their intense gazes on you and the way the fourth male stood beside you and placed his hand on your lower back to urge you to take the sip and Wooyoung patting your cheek slightly, you closed your eyes and gulped a sip, coughing a little when it directly went down your throat and you removed the glass from your lips. "This tastes so weird."

they laughed hearing your complain.

"I know. I know. Take it slow. But gradually, you will feel fine." when you kept staring at him without a word, he laughed, "I know what you want to ask. But that's for tomorrow. You have to impress me to know my name." he leaned towards your neck, inhaling your scent with his sharp nose like a pervert, "or it's too bad."

What exactly is bad?

Who are they? And why are they acting like this?

Seonghwa again clicked his glass with yours, "Arriba!"

COMING SOON...

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Note: please I want to thanks to people for reading and reblogging. Reviews are always appreciated. Spread love not hate. also, you can notice I haven't described the members in details because it will be mentioned during the main night event when others will also appear.

Taglist: @mymoodwriting @justhere4kpop @anyamaris @yeoobin @icchyi @jwnghyuns @piratequeen-queenofgames @dinonuguaegi @hwanring @sanwifesstuff @hyuukah @kazscara @aceofspadesbiofalltrades @nvdhrzn @vtyb23 @haechansbbg @dassmyname

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