#Iberian Blend

[wine-porn]

Vina Vina

So who wants a Rioja that drinks like yGay, Faustino and Tondonia–WAY above standard Murrietta or Riscal or Campo Viejo–for half the price? Me does. Blisteringly young–only a year of bottle-age beyond the standard 18 mos–but showing the fruit and tight polish of a sublime, indefinitely-ageable Reserva. Nice medium ruby in the glass, with vague hints of amber at the rim. Nose of deep dark cherry,…

[stelladess]

Irene new fit is probably my favorite outfit in game since like Jessica alter:

The sailor uniform esque look due to how she was one of the first Iberians to sail again alongside Lumen, Dario and the Abyssal Hunters, the pouch adding a feel of practicality along with the gloves and such... and her new haircut. Irene looks great with short hair!

Also as always her feathers are still growing. Wonder if this is finally full grown or if she is gonna have her feathers get even bigger?

Id rank this outfit up with my favorites like Amiya and W´s londinium fits, Jessica alter, Ifrit lonetrail fit, etc.

Hitting that nice blend of fashionable with practicality.

[15-lizards]

Imo there is not enough Valyria content out there so I would LOVE to see your thoughts/headcanons on what the geography, city, fashion, etc. looked like

okay this ones a little difficult because even though Valyria is clearly inspired by Rome, I don't like roman (aka greek) architecture for them it just doesn't really fit to me. Honestly its hard to assign any real life inspo because the existence of dragons would have had some major impact on the society as a whole, architecture included

However, if I had to pick a type to ascribe to Old Valyria, my first choice would be a twist on Hindu architecture. I am absolutely obsessed with the sheer amount of details on the buildings (especially the Meenaskshi Temple at the bottom, everyone please go look at more pictures of it it's gorgeous). It's incredibly complex but also tends to be very symmetrical, the styles perfected over hundreds and hundreds of years. I also really love the idea of the spaces being open and well lit, it fits well.

Another alternative is traditional Chinese architecture, with the added bonus of dragon motifs that are already there :D Another type of architecture with an intense focus on details, symmetry, and how the design of a space affects a person. Architecture is a reflection of where a society is in their development, and I find that this could be a good inspiration for Valyria, an advanced culture with the excess time and resources to build things like these.

Woof okay clothing is all over the place I need to brainstorm and tighten my focus on different inspos (also I wish I could draw well so I can blend these styles properly but alas...anyways we ball). The main thing is mediterranean cultures I know that much. The Iberian Peninsula, Rome, Greece, the Minoans, Malta, Cyprus, etc etc all the ancient clothing and traditional costumes from around the Mediterranean Sea. Valyria was in a warmer, damper climate, meaning lots of loose fabric that could let air through but wouldn't weigh you down. Also doubling as shields from the sun. You get the gist I use this type of clothing all the time.

Okay Random Cultural Things Time

Art and literature? honestly really important because while yes this was a conquering civilization, they needed their exploits to live on in wall frescoes and written epics and dramatic pantomimes. I think they were literate, and probably spread written Valyrian to all the colonies, so that they were easily assimilated. People particularly fond of their dragons had pictures of them made and statues sculpted so that they would live on after their death.

Sports and entertainment also pretty big as well. Valyrians were a highly competitive people To Me so I think that riding, swimming, wrestling, racing, and other games were popular with the people, even those in the higher classes. Also fuck it I bet they raced their dragons. A really tall amphitheater where rich men lost money as they watched dragons circle around the ring. Or fight in midair, if the dragon riders were prisoners or sentenced to death.

As for religion, the Valyrians worshipped the gods that gave them dragons, but also tolerated the other faiths of the places the conquered, just in order to ease tensions (and because they had no dragons so why would they worship dragon gods). I like the idea of Roman household gods, with small altars in every home. Statues of the gods of the home, along with any gods a particular family might favor, along with ancestor veneration and dragon veneration. Dragon skulls and dragon masks on the walls baby!

[blueiscoool]

First Ever Human Depiction of Lost Tartessos Civilization Uncovered in Spain

Archaeologists representing Spain’s National Research Council (CSIS) excavating at the site of Casas del Turunuelo have uncovered the first human representations of the ancient Tartessos people.

The incredible results of an excavation that shed light on a mysterious and ancient civilization that flourished in southern Spain several centuries before Christ have been presented by Spain’s National Research Council.

The Tartessians, who are thought to have lived in southern Iberia (modern-day Andalusia and Extremadura), are regarded as one of the earliest Western European civilizations, and possibly the first to thrive in the Iberian Peninsula.

In the southwest of Spain’s Iberian Peninsula, the Tartessos culture first appeared in the Late Bronze Age. The culture is distinguished by a blend of local Paleo-Hispanic and Phoenician traits, as well as the use of a now-extinct language known as Tartessian. The Tartessos people were skilled in metallurgy and metal working, creating ornate objects and decorative items.

Archaeologists from Spain’s National Research Council (CSIS) on Tuesday presented the amazing results of excavation at the Casas de Turuuelo dig in Badajoz, in southwest Spain, as well as the results of the excavation.

Five busts, damaged but two of which maintain a great degree of detail, are the first human and facial representations of the Tartessian people that the modern world has ever seen.

The ornate depiction of the stone busts, as well the inclusion of jewellery (hoop earrings) and their particular hairstyles, resemble ancient sculptures from the Middle East and Asia. 

These “extraordinary findings” represent a “profound paradigm shift” in the interpretation of Tartessian culture, excavation leaders Celestino Pérez and Esther Rodríguez said during the press conference.

Given the scarcity of Tartessian archaeological finds thus far, this ancient society is shrouded in mystery.

Tartessos’ port was located at the mouth of the Guadalquivir river in what is now Cádiz, according to historical records. In the fourth century BC, Greek historian Ephorus described it as a prosperous civilization centered on the production and trade of tin, gold, and other metals.

What is unknown is where the Tartessians came from, whether they were an indigenous tribe with Eastern influences or a Phoenician colony that settled beyond the Pillars of Hercules (the Strait of Gibraltar).

The team from Mérida’s Institute of Archaeology believes two of the busts discovered in what is thought to be a shrine or pantheon represent Tartessian goddesses, despite the fact that Tartessian religion was previously thought to be aniconic (opposed to the use of idols or images).

The stone busts’ facial depiction, as well as the inclusion of jewelry (hoop earrings) and their specific hairstyles, resemble ancient sculptures from the Middle East and Asia.

Archaeologists believe that the two goddesses, along with three other sculptures that were significantly more damaged, were part of a stone mural depicting four deities watching over a Tartessian warrior, as one of the defaced busts has a helmet.

The ornate effigies, which are thought to be around 2,500 years old, are also significant for art historians, as Ancient Greece and Etruria (an ancient civilization in modern-day central Italy) was previously recognized as the epicenters of sculpting during this time period.

By Leman Altuntaş.

[themakeupbrush]

Miss Grand Spain 2023 National Costume

The Iberian imperial eagle, Aquila adalberti, is one of the rarest and most endangered birds in the world. That's why we want to pay tribute to this animal as a symbol of resilience and raise awareness about the need to care for our planet and its inhabitants. Celia wears a costume inspired by this unique species in Spain, honoring one of the most powerful raptors. This ensemble is a harmonious blend of craftsmanship and symbolism, its distinctive white shoulders and practically golden plumage make the Iberian imperial eagle a symbol and icon of Spanish biodiversity. The image of this eagle reminds us of the uniqueness and strength of Spanish women, who, like this extraordinary bird, are guardians of Spain's cultural and social diversity, playing an essential role in the nation's history and future.

[sefarad-haami]

Learning Ladino

Ladino, also referred to as Judeo-Spanish or Judezmo, serves as the linguistic heritage of Sephardic Jews, or Sepharadim, descending from the Iberian Peninsula, which encompasses present-day Spain and Portugal. Following their expulsion from Spain in 1492, Sepharadim dispersed throughout the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and beyond, predominantly finding refuge in the Ottoman Empire. It was within this diverse cultural milieu that Ladino emerged, blending Spanish and other Iberian languages with a robust infusion of Hebrew-Aramaic elements, while also incorporating linguistic influences from the surrounding Mediterranean regions such as Turkish, Greek, Italian, French, and Arabic. Embracing versatility, Ladino became the language of everyday life, spanning from domestic settings to public spaces like markets and synagogues, and encompassing various aspects of culture including humor, politics, and literature.

[jasminewalkerauthor]

Deep dives into folklore: Portuguese folklore

Portuguese folklore, a mesmerizing mosaic of myths and legends, serves as a profound testament to the cultural heritage of the nation. Woven over centuries, this intricate tapestry reflects the dynamic interplay of historical influences, blending the legacies of Phoenicians, Romans, Moors, Celts, and Christians. Rooted in a diverse historical landscape, Portuguese folklore encapsulates the essence of the country's identity, encapsulating the collective imagination of its people. As we embark on a deep dive into this mystical realm, we unveil the stories, characters, and cultural significance that have endured through the ages, illuminating the captivating spirit of Portugal's folklore.

Portuguese folklore has deep roots in the country's history, blending influences from various civilizations that have shaped the region over millennia. Phoenician, Roman, Moorish, and Celtic influences, among others, have contributed to the diverse range of myths and legends that make up Portugal's folklore.

One of the earliest influences on Portuguese folklore is the Roman presence in Lusitania. The Romans introduced their own deities and myths, blending with the existing indigenous beliefs. As Christianity took root in the region, a symbiotic relationship developed between pagan and Christian elements, resulting in a unique blend of folklore that reflects Portugal's cultural identity.

The Lusitanian Mythical Heritage:

Before Roman rule, the Lusitanians, an ancient Celtic people, had their own pantheon of deities and mythical beings. The god Bandua, associated with war and protection, and the goddess Ataegina, linked to fertility, are examples of Lusitanian figures that persisted in local folklore.

The Moura Encantada:

The Moura Encantada, or the Enchanted Moorish Maiden, is a prominent figure in Portuguese folklore. These mythical beings are often beautiful women with magical powers, dwelling in hidden places or trapped in enchantments. Stories of love, loss, and magical intervention surround the Moura Encantada, emphasizing themes of fate and destiny.

The Lobo Ibérico (Iberian Wolf):

Wolves hold a significant place in Portuguese folklore, symbolizing both danger and wisdom. The Lobo Ibérico is a recurring motif, representing the untamed wilderness and the struggle for survival. Folk tales often feature wolves as shape-shifters or mystical guardians, embodying the complex relationship between humans and nature.

The Barco da Roda (Wheelbarrow Boat):

Coastal regions of Portugal have tales of the Barco da Roda, a phantom boat that appears during storms. Believed to be a harbinger of doom, this spectral vessel is associated with the souls of the deceased. The folklore surrounding the Barco da Roda reflects the maritime culture and the inherent connection between the Portuguese people and the sea.

Portuguese folklore serves as a mirror reflecting the collective consciousness of the nation. It embodies the struggles, triumphs, and enduring spirit of the Portuguese people. The fusion of pagan and Christian elements in folklore illustrates the adaptive nature of Portugal's cultural identity.

Festivals and celebrations often incorporate folklore, with traditional dances, music, and costumes bringing mythical characters to life. The Feast of São João, celebrated across Portugal, features rituals and customs that trace their roots to ancient solstice celebrations, merging pre-Christian traditions with Christian elements.

In conclusion, Portuguese folklore is a captivating journey through the cultural tapestry of a nation. Its origins in diverse historical influences, the presence of mythical figures like the Moura Encantada and the Lobo Ibérico, and its cultural significance in festivals and celebrations all contribute to the richness of Portugal's folklore. Through the ages, these stories have been passed down, evolving and adapting while preserving the essence of Portugal's enchanting heritage.

Taglist (reply or reblog to be added): @axl-ul @crow-flower @thoughts-fromthevoid @alderwoodbooks @harleyacoincidence @tuberosumtater @sonic-spade @theonlygardenia @holymzogynybatman @nulliel-tres @w0rkah0licz @sylvanthorn @tigertaurus22 @profiterole-reads @mathias-musings @1899adgg1997tbmd @grimmparanormalinvestigations

[nexility-sims]

what's something you'd like to see more of on royal simblr?

the timing of this was brilliant, actually, because i had been thinking for several days that i would like to make some sort of entirely uncalled for, roughly edited psa post about What I Think Royal Simblr Needs To Prioritize More :^) anyway, you also touched on this in your own answer, so it’s an echo of that too :^) it's very long, but i had a lot to say about the topic i've chosen. i should also preface by saying that it's not meant as a blanket negative statement or even an objective prescription; it's just based on my own observation and anecdotal experience.

in short, royal simblr needs more cultural diversity !

there are two big reasons why i feel this way: one, the entire premise is suspect because it so easily verges into uncritically reproducing and whitewashing an awful institution; and two, cultural diversity is actually more engaging and interesting than a community that feels monocultural (esp when said culture is a hegemonic colonial product whose dominance is based on plunder, oppression, and destruction of both entire peoples and the planet itself).

personally, i want to be part of a community where folks are 1) actively curious about the wider world and its cultures and 2) comfortable incorporating their own cultures in their stories. it’s true that the bias is perhaps partly because many royalty references in the real world may not have great english sources for a predominantly english-speaking community to use. but, i don’t think that’s a get-out-of-jail-free card. i am absolutely not a person who likes to consciously write myself into my stories, to be clear. that being said, i do ask myself, “what experiences or knowledge do i have that deserve representation?” we write our stories for ourselves but, frankly, i would venture many of us have internalized messages that make us devalue our own backgrounds or doubt others will be interested in content outside of the often white, often western mainstream. in my experience, the royal simblr community places high value on researching and replicating the norms of contemporary western european royalty—particularly the british royal family. the truth is that same care and respect could be put into other histories and perspectives, if the motivation existed to do so.

so, another approach, beyond drawing on your own experiences, is doing the research to respectfully depict or be inspired by a culture that isn't your own. the onus for representation cannot be squarely on the most marginalized of us, even if we'd likely produce the best version of it. if i had chosen to write a story about a fake british royal family, i'd have felt guilty about not writing a story full of brown people from the americas; that representation wouldn't really exist if i wasn't making it for myself. consequently, culture shifts require everyone to do their part, whether as creators, collaborators, or readers. i'd also venture that most of us appreciate when outsiders believe our cultures are valuable and beautiful—when they want to know or experience our clothing, food, and music in ways that are not fetishizing, exploitative, or appropriating. that's part of why tumblr is filled with guides and tutorials to writing characters from all walks of life, from ethnicity to disability to gender; the resources exist, and people want to see them used. it doesn't even have to be your entire story ! individual characters or plot lines can give good representation if you make that a priority.

in my own story, i've blended the two approaches. i think about my own, my family's, and my friends' experiences of indigeneity in what's currently the united states; i've also blended it with my interests in iberian and latin american histories, especially indigenous mexico, among other elements closer to u.s. history. my story isn't a direct replica of any real world place or people, but the culture is based on imagination, research, and feedback. if someone has a critique or feels offended for whatever reason, i want to be humble enough to accept it and make changes. one of the amazing things about this corner of tumblr is that our community loves to help others. learning in public—experimenting, sharing parts of yourself, being creative—is never easy, but it's easier to do when you're part of a community that offers grace and encouragement. my opinion is also that people are more willing to share their expertise and welcome your work if you demonstrate, not just good intentions, but that you've done your homework to the best of your ability.

i want to be clear, too: there's a place for storytelling as conscious critique of the institution, and there are storytellers in this community whose cultures happen to be the ones that are overrepresented. this isn't an indictment of the good stories and good fun people are having. i'm just taking this as an opportunity to offer constructive criticism and give people the encouragement or permission to try something different. why not use your creativity to incorporate other sources of inspiration—or to imagine a different and better world, even?

at the end of the day, everyone can do whatever they want with their hobbies. we can't all be doing social justice on simblr dot com and, frankly, probably shouldn't be ! it is nonetheless true that some of us don't get to enjoy our hobbies uncritically. we can't log onto tumblr and scroll through sims stories and be blissfully unaware of the politics of representation. "royalty" doesn't just connote pretty tiaras and fancy titles for all of us. people who are marginalized in the real world are part of this community. its representation signals to us how welcome we and the stories we have to tell really are.

most or all of us are imagining our countries to be part of the same fictional world. it's just my personal opinion, but i don’t think that world should be mostly fake europe plus specifically the settler colonial parts of fake non-europe. my challenge to everyone would be to think about whether your story could or should meaningfully contribute to a fuller, more realistic representation of the world we've created as a collective within this community.

[adobe-outdesign]

Have you done opinios for the sv starter evolutions yet? What are your thoughts on Meowscarada? I think it gives more 2nd evolution than final

In my opinion, I think this gen's starters and their evos are pretty strong as a whole, with some good middle evos to boot. I really like Floragato here in particular—I'd almost consider running it with an everstone if Fuecoco didn't exist.

If you read my review of it, you'll recall I found Sprigatito to be nicely designed but a bit generic, with no particular theme to speak of and pretty standard grass-type visuals. Floragato fixes that by standing up (while still retaining stocky, cat-like anatomy) and adding in some darker coloration to hint at its eventual typing, which adds just enough visual spice that it starts to feel more unique.

What I particularly like about it is the yo-yo. It's a simple enough visual, but it's super fun and gives Floragato something unique to it and it alone, preventing it from falling into the "middle stage that only exists to transition between A and B" trap that many middle evos do. More importantly, it hints at its trickster nature that leads into it gaining dark typing and a magician theme when it evolves.

My only visual nitpick, which I'll get into more with Meowscarada, is that the neutral green is completely unnecessary; everything that color could just be the dark green and nothing would be lost. It's particularly bothersome on the front leaf, which suddenly changes color with no reason why. Other than that, however, I think this design is solid.

I remember really not caring for Meowscarada when it was first leaked, but looking at the official art via scans, it's much better than I gave it credit for initially. I think the problem is that it has kind of a janky in-game model, which has a weird mouth and slightly too-round eye shapes that throw it a bit.

Anyway, as a whole, I do think it's got the right idea. Despite it being a magician Pokemon of sorts with maybe some carnival elements, it very specifically reminds of a pierrot (poofy "sleeves", neck ruffles, diamonds over the eyes, small pinched mouth) crossed with a jester (the mask and cheek fur).

I also mentioned in my original review that I hoped they were going for an Iberian Lynx kind of thing, and that ended up being true with the cheek scruff, short tail, and paw shapes. I do wish they worked the lynx ear tufts into the mask, but it's nice to have a lynx Pokemon that actually somewhat looks like a lynx and not a lion.

Visually, Meowscarada makes sense as a final evo; the mask comes from the dark parts of Sprigatito's and Floragato's faces, the cheek fur was always there as were the pink accents, the cape is derived from Sprigatito's neck leaf, etc. It doesn't suddenly change themes or visuals out of nowhere, and everything in the design makes sense as a logical conclusion to the line.

So why don't I feel more strongly about it? I think my big problem is the colors. It has four colors in its palette: pink, green, green, And Green. The "middle" shade of green is unnecessary, and only serves to lower the contrast of the design (this is especially noticeable with the diamonds on the mask, which blend into the rest of it). I also feel like the mask is too big and too rigid compared to the cheek fur, and the perfectly round "cuffs" near the paws make its arms look swollen instead of fluffy.

Here's a small edit I did to try to show what I mean visually (original on right):

I adjusted the mask shape to be a little more jester-like and made the paws dark green with fur cuffs so they parallel the legs visually. I also removed the middle green for higher contrast, and redistributed the pink to put focus on the cape, which is more important to the design than stuff like the paw pads.

I know all that's pretty nitpicky stuff, but it's the nitpicky stuff that kind of throws this design for me and makes me like Floragato more. It's not bad—but it could've been a better with just a bit of refinement and simplification.

As a whole, I'd say the Sprigatito line is pretty strong; it has a clear theme, logical typing, and a clear visual through line. Each stage also has their own unique attributes that make them both stand out and work as a whole. I do think Meowscarada's design could've stood to have a few tweaks made in the color department, but it's otherwise one of the stronger starter lines we've gotten in recent years.

[umichenginabroad]

Madrid Week 3: Flashbacks

Hola a todxs! It’s Niko back with week 3 of studying abroad in Madrid. Time is STILL passing by really fast and slow at the same time, so I'll talk about it again — I’ve been here less than a month and it’s felt like half a year, but the days go by quickly. I don’t think that will stop anytime soon, but I’m here for it. More perceived time = more life lived, and I hope that my weeks don't start blending together anytime soon.

As promised in week 2, I wanted to spend this blog talking about my trip to Granada last weekend. Granada is a small Spanish town in the southern region of Spain called Andalucía. It’s got a population of around 230,000 people — nearly the exact same as my hometown of Arlington, VA, which is a suburb outside of Washington, DC. However, in place of tree lined residential neighborhoods and modern office buildings, Granada is filled with narrow cobblestone streets bordered by low, densely packed buildings and intensely intricate churches/palaces built hundreds of years ago.

That palace — La Alhambra — is the largest tourist attraction in Granada, and was one of the main reasons I wanted to visit it (also, a big shout out to Emma for hosting me, a friend of mine from high school doing her semester in Granada!!). It’s a massive Moorish palace on a hill that overlooks the entire city. The Moors, who were North African Muslims, conquered much of the Iberian Peninsula in the 8th century. La Alhambra was slowly built between the years 1238 and 1358, during the reigns of Ibn al-Aḥmar and his successors. 

With that said, my trip to Granada last weekend was not my first time seeing La Alhambra. As I mentioned briefly in week 0's blog, I took a trip to Spain with my 8th grade Spanish class for a week. That was 7 years ago. We hit most of the main touristic Spanish cities within that time, Granada included.

So, walking through the palace last weekend triggered a slow trickle of distant memories, fuzzy enough that I couldn’t remember details, but potent enough that I could remember how I felt. Some things had changed about the palace, many things stayed the same. I still felt the same sense of awe I did 7 years ago witnessing the incredible detail hand-carved into every surface, or seeing the palace perfectly reflected in a courtyard’s pool. The difference was that this time, I was exploring alone.

I think that during this trip, I really gained an appreciation — and curiosity — of solo travel. Although I was with my friend Emma much of the time, I felt a great deal of peace in exploring La Alhambra at my own pace. Without anyone else to turn to, I was forced to be present and attuned to my surroundings, and that enabled me to appreciate them that much more.

I think that part of that appreciation, however, was derived from the sense of independence and freedom I had existing alone in Granada. Going into college, being alone terrified me. I would step into the dining hall for lunch and wander through the common spaces, looking for a familiar face I could share a meal with. Now, I try my best to cherish the moments in which I can connect more to myself, whether that be during a meal, practicing a hobby, or exploring an ancient Moorish palace. That’s only something I've been able to move towards through consistent practice -- AKA, spending deliberate time alone. I hope to continue deepening that connection throughout this semester solo-exploring Spain and Europe, which I know is something I'll carry with me for the rest of my life.

Aside from La Alhambra, Emma and I explored the city and its various landmarks (El Albaicin, a predominantly Muslim neighborhood, the Granada Cathedral, the Monastery of San Jeronimo, the Mirador de San Miguel Alto [and an epic sunset], and even a jazz-esque show with Spanish flair from a band at a local music club). More pictures below.

On the way back home, we stopped at a rest stop for the bus, and I couldn’t help but notice how familiar it seemed. It conjured up a nostalgic feeling that could have only come from my first trip in Spain — I realized we had stopped at the same station.

For old time’s sake, I bought a Kinder Egg Sorpresa. These things were a huge deal to me in 8th grade, as they are banned in the USA for being a ‘choking hazard’.  Inside the chocolate exterior was a little plastic goat toy that will now serve as the centerpiece of our dining room table.

It’s funny to think how much of a different person I am from the 13 year old on vacation with his school friends and Spanish teachers. But it’s also comforting to know that all of these memories I carry with me explain the person I am today.

This week, I got a little more into school groove, took a rollerblading route, visited the Reina Sofia museum and went to see some amazing techno DJs over the weekend. Per usual, check out the photo captions for more info on the content this week :).

Hasta luego,

Niko Economos

Aerospace Engineering

Universidad Carlos III de Madrid

Madrid, Spain

[wine-porn]

Past Caso

My favorite wine from this producer, and this bottle is feeling a bit tired. Didn’t see that coming from my last visit, and perhaps a decade is pushing it a bit. It’s still gorgeous, and not by any means drain-food, I will continue drinking this wine tonight and enjoy each moment, though through VARY tertiaried lenses. Still dark, impenetrable ruby with rather little brick, just smelling and…

[pokemonbiologyirlthetabletop]

Squawkabilly

Squawkabilly (#931)

Loquicus psittacohors verde (Green Plumage)

Loquicus psittacohors azur (Blue Plumage)

Loquicus psittacohors croceus (Yellow Plumage)

Loquicus psittacohors albus (White Plumage)

General Information: Squawkabilly the Parrot Pokémon, these Pokémon are known to form large flocks with other like-colored Squawkabilly and partake in violent territorial disputes.

Squawkabilly average at 2 feet (0.6 M) tall and 5.3 pounds (2.4 kg). There are four main plumages of Squawkabilly: green, blue, yellow, and white. They are also capable of developing a range of mimicked vocabulary that helps them communicate to humans.

Habitat: Squawkabilly are native to the southern portions of South America (namely Uruguay, Brazil, and Argentina), but have in the last several decades become invasive to the Iberian Peninsula and other parts of the Mediterranean. Their invasion to other parts of the world cause farmers to fear their harm to crops and native species, of which they are known to outcompete. Still, they are generally tolerated by urbanites.

Life Cycles: Squawkabillies are born to clutches of 5-12 eggs each year, where they hatch in about 24 days. Nests are part of a grand colonial structure, where the colony builds one very large nest with separate entrances for each pair. These nests can get as large as automobiles. Older siblings are known to help care for hatchlings. Squawkabillies achieve reproductive maturity when they reach level 15. They can live 20-30 years in the wild or in captivity.

Behavior: Squawkabilly have different social patterns based on the color of their plumage.

               Green- These are the largest flocks, which regularly contain over 50 individuals. They are not the most aggressive of the Squawkabillies, but they have numbers on their side to overwhelm opponents. When these birds feed at the twilight hours, they are as noisy as can be.

               Blue- These are, by and large, the second largest of the flocks, which readily contain up to 50 individuals. They have a rivalry with the green plumage Squawkabillies. They are noisy feeders who eat during mid-day.

               Yellow- This is the most violent and aggressive of the variants. They exist in small but fierce flocks who are known to attack other bird Pokémon in competition over food. While Greens and Blues are overwhelmingly foragers with some scavenging, the Yellows are predominately scavengers and thieves.

               White- The least common of the variants, White Squawkabillies are the friendliest, choosing cooperation with allies and blending in with the white buildings of meditteranean cities.  

Diet: Fruits, nuts, and grains, but also whatever they can scrounge up from stealing (if they’re Yellows).

Conservation: Least Concern

Relationship with Humans: Squawkabillies were brought to other parts of the world by humans through the pet trade. The populations that swarm the Iberian Peninsula are all feral populations that steadily outcompete many native species. They are amicable (enough) with humans, but their numbers can become quite the nuisance and pest problem for farmers.

While they make great pets, Squawkabillies have also been on the dinner table of humans for tens of thousands of years. Especially the mean yellow ones. But the aggressive Yellows have served as guardian Pokémon, too, and as many things in life, there is a complex and varied relationship with Squawkabillies throughout human history. There are even some places that use them for transport!

Classification: Squawkabilly are most closely related to Chatots. They are in the genus Loquicus, a name derived from “loqui” meaning “talk” in Latin, and “psittacus” (parrot). The species epithet, psittacohors, is further a combination of “Psittacus” and “cohors” (gang). The sub-species epithets are verde (green), azur (blue), croceus (saffron), and albus (white).

~~~~~~~~

Hey guess what, if you like my stuff, this is my website where you can find other Pokémon I've written on and more information about the game that I’m slowly making! Check it out! I write books sometimes too.

[15-lizards]

In honour of George’s cookbook.... Food headcannons please! I’d love you to do one of the free cities like Myr 

Order up while we wait another ten years for Winds… 👩‍🍳🥘🧆🍛

Myr, the fertile heel of Essos, reminds me a lot of Spain and the Iberian Peninsula in general. A port city with a warm climate good for growing. This means lots of staples like rice and other grains, and plentiful olives/olive oil as well. Seafood is a huge part of the diet too. This leads to large fried grain dishes topped with mollusks or fish or shrimp (like Paella), and versatile seafood soups and stews with plenty of spices being quite popular in Myr.

Volantis’ climate reminds me of Thailand, Vietnam, and other surrounding SEA countries, so let’s say the food is similar too. Plenty of rice and noodles to pour your main dishes on top of. Multiple courses consisting of spicy stews/curries, fried meat and veggie dishes, fish platters, and gelatinous rice dishes. Cold noodles and other chilled foods are very popular too, due to the relief it provides from the sticky heat

Lys is kind of a a mishmash of the Greek islands, so let’s go with classic Mediterranean foods. The island is very fertile, so I think they like to make use of their abundance of veggies. Cold salad-like dishes are very popular, drenched in oil and spices. Cooked vegetables are usually the main course, often stuffed with rice, chicken, or other filling foods. There are also dips and sauces bc they seem like dips and sauces ppl.

I know Braavos is supposed to be like Venice but it’s also cold and wet there so…✨Polish and general North Eastern European food✨ but it works hear me out. Multicultural blends of vegetable and fish stews that have changed over time to become uniquely Braavoisi. Veggies/fish/meet/fruit/literally anything wrapped in dough bc things wrapped in dough surpass borders. Overall just a mash of differing cultures the city was founded on plus the environment in which they live. (Shoutout @ludcake for the help 🫶)

Croatian food is notably heterogeneous so that’s why I think it’s perfect for Pentos. There’s no one major inspiration for its food, being a major trade city, its people take knowledge from whichever foreigner has pulled into port and uses it for their cuisine. Flavorful and random seafood stews. Simple cold salads with vinegar and potatoes. Very daring raw octopus dishes. The list goes on

[modern--nights]

Assamites

In Cainite circles, many remain unaware of the true nature and intentions of the Assamites. To most, they appear as a new clan emerging from the East, bold in their stance amidst the nightly struggles of our kind. Only the elders and learned scholars among Cainites can recall a time when the Assamites were active members of our society, before they withdrew into their studies within Alamut, their sanctuary nestled in the Anatolian mountains.

Among European vampires, rare are those who interact with anyone beyond the Assamite envoys, the viziers, and a handful of sorcerers. The clan presents a united front, possessing an uncanny ability to communicate across vast distances and maintain ties with their brethren in Alamut.

Though many Assamites hail from the lands now known as Persia, birthplace of their founder, their members come from across the Middle East. In recent times, a growing number of younger Assamites have embraced Islamic beliefs. Yet, their elders often regard this with disdain, seeing mortal religion as a distraction from their true purpose.

However, to the wider Cainite society, it is the younger Assamites they mostly encounter, and the name Assamite has become synonymous with Muslim, earning them the epithet Saracens. Yet, many elder Assamites are content to let others believe what they will, so long as it serves their own ends.

The Assamites themselves shun the label of Saracens, preferring instead to be known as the Children of Haqim, in honor of their progenitor. Haqim laid down a strict code for his descendants to follow. Cainites are perilous creatures who meddle too freely in mortal affairs. The Children of Haqim are tasked with honoring their elders, shielding mortals from the excesses of other Cainites, and meting out judgment (and punishment) upon their kindred.

Furthermore, the Children of Haqim are entrusted with reclaiming the blood of profligate Cainites, those who abuse mortals and ought not possess such gifts. This often leads the clan to engage in diablerie as a matter of principle, though few adhere strictly to this doctrine.

The clan of the Children of Haqim operates as a cohesive unit, divided into three distinct sects that collaborate closely in pursuit of their shared goal of judgment. The sorcerers serve as the clan's backbone, facilitating communication among members and providing essential support from Alamut, the clan's stronghold. Warriors, on the other hand, wield the authority to pass judgment upon vampires and deliver punishment when deemed necessary. Meanwhile, the viziers assume the role of the clan's public representatives, gathering intelligence on political matters and current events to keep their brethren informed. Most Assamites residing within Cainite-controlled territories function as viziers, supported by a handful of sorcerers.

Dubbed as the Children of Haqim or Saracens, the appearance of Assamites is predominantly Middle Eastern, although some neonates have been embraced as far west as the Iberian Peninsula. Regardless of origin, all Assamites are obliged to spend time in Alamut following their embrace, adopting traditional Middle Eastern attire. Dress codes within the three sects vary based on functionality; sorcerers adhere strictly to traditional attire, warriors opt for comfort during extended travels, and viziers often adopt the garb of their current city of residence.

When selecting a haven, Assamites prioritize security over luxury, favoring easily defended dwellings secluded from mortal eyes, particularly in European domains. Many opt for residences located on the outskirts of cities, enabling them to monitor the activities of both vampires and mortals. However, practicality may sometimes yield to necessity; certain Assamite viziers may adorn their dwellings impressively to curry favor with mortal and Cainite courts when hosting visitors.

In terms of character creation, Assamite viziers typically possess a blend of Social and Mental Attributes and Abilities, reflecting their roles as scholars and diplomats. Most Children of Haqim boast at least one dot in Mentor, often their sire, and some may possess dots in Generation acquired through the practice of diablerie upon those deemed unworthy. The majority adhere to the Road of Heaven or Humanity, with a select few following the Road of Kings. However, older warriors and traditionalists often align with the Road of Blood.

Clan Assamite possesses a distinctive set of Disciplines, including Auspex, Presence, and Quietus (Hematus). However, their rigorous nature is both a strength and a weakness. Assamite viziers are known for their unwavering dedication, yet each harbors an obsession with their highest intellectual or creative Ability, which manifests as a derangement. This obsession is visible through their glowing aura, offering clues to their true nature and the object of their fixation, discernible to users of Auspex. Additionally, as Assamites age, their skin gradually darkens to a matte onyx, a slow but unmistakable transformation.

Organization within Clan Assamite is intricate, owing to the adeptness of their sorcerers. The clan defers to the Eldest, typically the eldest of Haqim's progeny not in torpor. Each of the three sects within the clan has its own internal leader, collectively overseeing the night-to-night operations. The viziers perceive themselves as judges, tasked with evaluating Cainites and identifying those deemed unworthy of Caine's blood. Sorcerers dedicate themselves to research aimed at enhancing interactions with mortals and maintaining communication among the sects. Meanwhile, warriors act as enforcers, executing judgments and leading nomadic lives directed by their brethren.

Regarding stereotypes of other clans, Assamites hold varying views. They view Tremere with caution, wary of their meddling in unknown realms. Brujah are seen as passionate but lacking in true philosophical depth. Cappadocians are generally tolerated as long as their studies into death remain separate from mortal affairs. Gangrel are respected for their honor, with few deemed unworthy. However, Followers of Set are considered heretics, condemned for their debauchery and perceived evil.

[dustedmagazine]

Èlia Lucas Quartet — Introspecció (Segell Microscopi)

Photo by Anton Tendero

Pianist Èlia Lucas’s compositions combine elements of jazz, classical and pop in inventive ways, and her group performs them with passion and conviction on Introspecció. The polished arrangements reflect considerable time woodshedding and performing as a quartet, and upright bassist Tomàs Pujol and drummer Kike Pérez also play together in Trio Nilo, sometimes joined by sax player Edu Pons, while Pons and sometimes Lucas play in Pérez’s quintet. There are undoubtedly further connections, and these musicians’ familiarity and comfort with each other are evident here. As so often in jazz (and other kinds of music), a tight-knit scene makes for tight and generous interplay.

On the more obviously classically influenced tracks, such as “Intro” and “Bach inspirations,” which begins with a telepathic sax and piano duo and then transitions from the baroque to jazz, the members of the group well demonstrate their chops and establish the mood. These and the other tracks are generally mid-tempo and unfold gradually. “Cercles” is built around a pair of solos by Pons with some inspired soloing from Lucas and Pujol in between. And “Natural” wraps things up elegantly with Pons starting out alone on soprano and gorgeous soloing from Lucas and arco from Pujol. 

The quartet is also capable of generating some fire. From a gentle start, “Dreamin’” (which deserves a better title) builds up a ferocious head of steam thanks to some great skronk from Pons and powerful tom and cymbal work by Perez punctuated by a too-brief solo from Pujol. Even “Bach inspirations” generates considerable force in its final minute. “Línies” features another quick solo from Pujol and a nice shift around the mid-point when Pons at last joins the other three to deliver a solo that, unfortunately, is swallowed up in a fade-out at the end. 

The blend of chamber jazz with freer elements is consistently effective across Introspecció. The sound benefits from the clarity of the recording as well as the sympathetic ensemble playing. Lucas’s compositions are accessible and memorable, and the band plays them with the familiarity of standards. This record is also further evidence of the vitality of jazz in the Iberian Peninsula. 

Jim Marks

[the-garbanzo-annex-jr]

Yaniv Pohoryles

Can one be Spanish, Moroccan and Jewish at the same time while living under French influence? The story of the Jews of northern Morocco, mainly from the Tangier region, is one of the most complex and intriguing stories of the Jewish community in the region.

According to Dr. Aviad Moreno, a faculty member at the Ben-Gurion Institute at Ben-Gurion University, the National Authority for Ladino Culture, and representative of the Royal Spanish Academy in Israel, the majority of Tangier and North Moroccan Jews are descendants of the expelled Jews from Spain who settled in the region after the expulsion and established Sephardic Jewish communities.

“The Jews in Northern Morocco preserved and developed the Judeo-Spanish language they brought from Spain even centuries after being expelled from the Iberian Peninsula, blending it with local Arabic and Amazigh linguistic elements," says Moreno.

"In this aspect, they differed from other Jewish communities in Morocco that did not maintain the Spanish language, even if they originated from Spain.

The region itself underwent various transformations, and when Spain occupied the area, its representatives encountered these Jews who spoke the language they identified as their own. There have been attempts to assimilate them and use them as agents of modernization, fueled by great curiosity towards the language they preserved and a desire to reconnect them with their Sephardic Spanish heritage."