#Victorian championships

[doomduck]

Big day yesterday.

After skating in the morning I got to watch the Victorian state championships! Its a bench mark competition so I was hoping that ment getting to see some really good skating.

Here are what I hope are some very brief notes:

- the novice divisions where big

-i missed ice dance/pairs

- I sore maybe 4 men skate the whole day

- Chris showed me how to run the camera!

- there is corner that is known as the 'axel corner ' that camera can't see thanks to the hockey glass (?)

- there were a couple of triple axels. All of the. In the novice divisions.

- no quads

- Chris was not in pressed with the lack of transitions in the adult women's programs (there were only 3 competitors)

- alot of the skate school coachs were completing in the novice divisions (intermediate i think?) And did Really well!

Here is Camilo's free skate. He was the only one in the senior men's.

[aigle-suisse]

Coreena Cleland 2 par sportscrazephotos

[daguerreotyping]

Carte de visite of two ladies embracing in the throes of passion and/or ennui, c. 1860s

[clove-pinks]

[piiinkfreak]

Winner! Wanted ideas to draw my ocs so pulled a three word prompt generator and this is what i came up with! Vera can't really eat that chocolate but the sweet taste of victory is enough for her...

.

.

.

.

.

[akitasimblr]

BEATRICE HARPER & CLIVE HARPER - FOR @softietrait's LEGACY

beatrice harper and clive harper are siblings. bee is a vampire and clive is an ex-vampire ;) more about them below.

bee, as she is sweetly called by her vampire family, has the gloomy, self-absorbed and foodie traits. bee is a powerful woman - and by powerful, i mean both in character and strenght. she’s fierce and a bit untamed; but she is fair and righteous. she will put up a fight… with words! bee can tear you down with a single sentence. she’s an oratory master! she went to britechester to study law and she followed a politician career. and now? bee is not the most romantic soul and she’s quite independent; but most of all, bee looks for true and meaningful relationships. for a politician that can be quite troublesome, honesty usually lacks in that arena. but entering bee’s circle of trust is synonym of an open heart and true, unfiltered emotions and loyalty to a large extent.

clive comes from a victorian lineage of vampires. unfortunately for him, he inherited vampiric genes. clive’s deep wish was to be… just a normal, apple-pie kind of sim came true! he reversed his vampirism and he is now a mere human sim - and he couldn’t feel happier! clive is the baby of the family, being the last kid of a long line of children. he had a very happy childhood and has an excellent relation with all of his siblings. but he never liked being a vampire. clive is an erratic, friendly and family-oriented vampire who aspires to be a super parent one day. he was taught how to play the piano and the guitar - but he prefers the guitar! this boy has an extensive knowledge of classic metal rock and as a teen he won oasis springs’ bowling championship!

[electrificata]

ten thousand rowdy catboy ghosts are haunting all the smart appliances in my wife’s faux-victorian nascar circuit online championship match and they keep doing jumpscares at me even after I cried a little. I tried throwing a garlic at them but they just laughed and said that’s got draculas. do I still have a chance with any of them?

hey, love is a numbers game so probably yes. but cool it with the garlic

[myplaylists-angeli]

That Playlist, Explained

The main focus of this playlist is to function as some sort of soundtrack for the cricket tournament on Weston’s arc. I’m not entirely sure how much the songs are historically accurate (aka “was this composition bopping in the local victorian theaters of that time (1889)?”) but let’s work with what we have: my passion for classical music.

Now my initial expectation was writing down the compositions names and writing what was my plan by choosing them… and somewhere after Pomp and Circumstance I had completely lost the plot and just begun narrating/summarizing the chapters. But the actual meanings are at the end if you want to skip it!

★ [Spoilers for the end of the arc!!] ★

1. Giselle: Act I - Entrée du Prince (Prince’s Entrance), by Adolphe Charles Adam [1841]

We open with the “Prince’s Entrance” at the ceremony of June 3rd in Weston, where the house representatives are yet to be presented. This is our little intro before the great show!

2. Pomp and Circumstance: March No.1, by Edward Elgar [1901]

Now enter the houses and their teams! 

“Their overwhelming physical prowess and teamwork are second to none… absolute champions! Top of the World: the Green Lions, the Knights!” 

 “Captivating spectators with their elegant plays…  a garden of fine plays! Brilliant Eden: the Scarlet Foxes, the Dramaturges!” 

“The House team, they say, throw their opponents into confusion by unpredictably tricky plays… a swarming of specters! Ghost Legion: the Violet Wolves, the Monk Sages!”

“They aim for an opportunity to win the championship with their strategic game plans… attack of the cornered rats! God-Only-Knows: the Sapphire Owls, the Academics!”

So come and enjoy for the ceremony of the Inter-house Cricket Tournament of 1889 is at the heights of its fire.

3. The Planets, Op. 32: 4. Jupiter - the Bringer of Jollity, by Gustav Holst [1914]

The first game is Sapphire Owls vs Scarlet Foxes. It’s epic, it’s joyful and we’re off to an impressive start with Soma’s cricket abilities, Edgar’s ~Crimson Rose Tornado!~ and Harcourt being himself. 

The game is impressive and it seems like everything is going in favor for the Scarlet Fox house…

4. The Four Seasons: Winter, by Antonio Vivaldi [1723]

… until it wasn’t. With a chilling sensation that creeps even the most sensible regions of one’s stomach, Bard’s horrendous meat-pie and Ciel’s plan dominate the game and guarantee the first victory for the Sapphire Owls!

5. Swan Lake: Act III - Spanish Dance, by Pyotr Illych Tchaikovsky [1877]

Going to the other side of the campus, a match between the Green Lions and the Purple Wolves. Cheslock makes a great move with his Rushing Violet Vapour — Purple Burnout!! and it’s highly effective until Herman hits it back. Victory to the Green house! And the cherry on top is… whatever the hell Gregory is doing on the field. Art goth kids, I swear to God…

6. Sun and Earth: Scene IV - “Winter” Polka, by Josef Bayer [1888]

Ciel gives his team a motivational speech: “Let’s win this! For us and for the Red House too!” (oh my, what a gentle boy!).

Now it’s official: the finale, Lions against Owls! But that will take a little while, so rest yourself and enjoy the show!

7. Radetzky March, by Johann Strauss I [1848]

Sebas… I mean, Master Michaelis puts his cheering orchestra in place to cheer for the Owls. And things seem to be going pretty well for the Owls, as they manage to hit the ball and mark the first points. There’s a flashback of Ciel explaining their strategy: every strong chord from the march, it’s a cue for the ball that’s coming!

8. L’Arlésienne Suite - No.2: 4. Farandole, by Georges Bizet [1872]

Here comes Edward for the bowl! He applied Cheslock’s move (Rushing Violet Vapour — Purple Burnout!!) and made a hit. And also cuts to Edward’s life flashback~ He doesn’t hold back, he doesn’t lose hope! Edward puts effort in everything he can do to come a little close to the geniuses he admires — even if Herman recognizes that this is no mid Midford on the field…!!

9. Concerto For 2 Violins in A Minor, L’estro Armonico: I. Allegro, by Antonio Vivaldi [1711] 

And on the other side of the field, enter the Headmaster and exits Sebastian from the orchestra. But unfortunately this left the Blue House in a bad spot without its musical cues and “cheering”... that’s it until Ciel makes up a new strategy! Now there’s something wrong with the Green House players — hm, and we’re informed that Sebastian thought it would be a good idea to invite Lau?

10. The Nutcracker: VI. Chinese Dance, by Pyotr Illych Tchaikovsky [1892]

Oh. So that’s why. A Surprise Brazen Harem of Woman!! — Ciel, or rather, Lau’s move for the Blue House. And the poor owl boys and their even poorer eyesight don’t even have a clue on what’s going on. That’s it… until Maurice raised a cry about their strategy. Time for a new plan, Ciel!

11. La Campanella, by Niccolò Paganini [1838] 

And Sebastian is still desperately trying to find the running Headmaster! 

While at that, a flashback reveals Ciel had news instructions for the Owls team. In a complex physics dynamic that’s too complicated to be summarized here (without copying a whole paragraph from the manga, that is), Lawrence makes a hit. You can see all Blue House players from here, in a new move: The Sword in the Stone~!!

12. Dance of the Goblins, by Antonio Bazzini [1852]

Now it’s Ciel’s time to bowl again — and Sebastian is on the search. And Ciel’s ball trajectory is… well, physically questionable against all laws of nature… but it’s within the rules, so shut up.

13. Pictures at an Exhibition: The Great Gate at Kiev, by Modest Mussorgsky [1874] 

The field complains about the foul nature of this move but Herman comes to the Blue House’s defense: “for the owl has come with might and main to hunt the lion”! (in his words)

14. 1812 Overture, by Pyotr Illych Tchaikovsky [1880]

But Ciel’s trick is still troublesome for a lot of Green House players, in a matter of mind manipulation and Over-the-Edge Tactics!! Devilish, indeed. Terrific, also. Now is Edward on the bat and he managed to make a six — now it���s on Lawrence’s hands. 

And later is in the… air? BUT NO! The ball has fallen directly into the wicket?! So Lawrence was literally up to something! — the field crowd melts at the sight. It’s the ~Hunter in the Dark~~!, sneaky and deadly as an owl. Now enters Herman in all his glory and preparation. Brain vs Brawn, afterall! The discussion of generations of human genes!

Lawrence throws but Herman takes the hit epicly, to the point of throwing it back so hard it could have BLOODY DESTROYED someone’s head in the crowd. That’s: Sword Excalibur!! 

At last, Ciel gives a pep talk to Lawrence to regain his confidence in himself and the game for the Blue House. Winning or losing… may he bowl without any regrets.

(pls put on 9:40 from here) 

In another epic set of panels — that’s it, scenes — Lawrence bowls one more time… but oh no, Herman accidentally hits Ciel while preparing to bat. As other Green House player comes to the field, Ciel seizes his eye on the ball and ends up throwing it right into the wicket! Umpire and it’s out!

The match is over: VICTORY to the Blue House! (put music on 12:30)

As if imaginary canons blow their shots into the distance, every single student on the field comes together to jump Ciel onto their shoulders. Finally, after so much effort and time, the Sapphire Miracle happens yet again! And by the hands of a second generation of Phantomhive? Incredible! One hell of a winning match!

And here comes Master Michaelis to rescue a wounded Ciel from his team’s hands to receive treatment. But the boy is the most happy about his house winning and finally being recognized as capable as anyone else. So sweet, this little boy! An absolute angel in disguise had come for the Blue House’s cause…!!

15. Devil’s Trill: III. Allegro assai, by Giuseppe Tartini [1713~1740]

… well, that was the expectation. 

Sebastian treats Ciel’s wound while a little bit of explanation unfolds. They really said “fake it until you make it”, all in good faith for the wellness of their investigation. Remarkable? Remarkable. Still in this moment of calmness before the party — and then, a storm — they discuss some important things.

16. Die Entführung aus dem Serail: Act 3. “Bassa Selim lebe lange”, by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart [1782]

I guess you can see them now, the “Little-Lord Cox” and the boat with his teammates, sailing through the Thames river in front of Windsor Castle, while good ol’ Vicky watches the English youth bestowing another glory to the country’s name… and maybe falling straight into the water can be a good sign? It is the most elegant display of nerdy behavior if I say myself — I would probably get the same ending. 

So may the festivities begin!

17. In the Dark of the Night (Epic Version), by Alala

Oh. What is this? Perhaps… do I hear a twist coming up? About the Headmaster? About the P4? Or maybe, there’s someone else behind in the darkness? Well, this is talk for another day. Don’t take yourself too seriously. You’re so under bloody pressure, mate!

★★★★★

Now, here, what the compositions are meant to be:

1. Giselle: Act I - Entrée du Prince (Prince’s Entrance), by Adolphe Charles Adam [1841]

Due to the regal and pompous status of Weston College, I thought using Giselle’s Prince Entrance would go very well as an intro.

2. Pomp and Circumstance: March No.1, by Edward Elgar [1901]

Pomp and Circumstance is a solemn and popular British march known throughout the whole world, especially for their movements. I thought it was only fitting that the houses would enter at such timing. 

But it’s not historically accurate!

3. The Planets, Op. 32: 4. Jupiter - the Bringer of Jollity, by Gustav Holst [1914]

Holst’s Jupiter had this Scarlet Fox feel to it that I couldn’t simply ignore, so here we are! But it’s not historically accurate either!

The Four Seasons: Winter, by Antonio Vivaldi [1723]

Technically this was meant to symbolize the Purple House but as I was reading and it became that whole debacle about Bard’s pie, I thought Winter’s ominous sound would go better with it lol

Swan Lake: Act III - Spanish Dance, by Pyotr Illych Tchaikovsky [1877]

And this one is now symbolizing Purple House’s game. I wish we saw more of them…

Sun and Earth: Scene IV - “Winter” Polka, by Josef Bayer [1888]

Not a big meaning for this one. I think it was in my spotify favorites list and it sounded nice. Also it’s funny to think it comes before the main story lol

Radetzky March, by Johann Strauss I [1848]

This one actually appears in the manga/anime!

L’Arlésienne Suite - No.2: 4. Farandole, by Georges Bizet [1872]

I don’t understand much of Bizet but this also sounded nice and proper for this scene.

Concerto For 2 Violins in A Minor, L’estro Armonico: I. Allegro, by Antonio Vivaldi [1711] 

Also no big plan for this one but it’s a nice intermission for the next big thing that’s about to happen. 

The Nutcracker: VI. Chinese Dance, by Pyotr Illych Tchaikovsky [1892]

C’mon. Like… c’mon. Someone had to. With this context?? Obvious disclaimer that this isn’t actual Chinese instrumentalization or music. Funny enough, it’s a couple of years “futuristic” for the story, so also not accurate.

La Campanella, by Niccolò Paganini [1838] 

I like La Campanella and it goes amazing with this scene. 

But also, there were rumors at Paganini’s time that he had made a pact with the devil for his violin skills. Although it is theorized that probably his “mephistopheles-like” appearance and long fingers may be results of Marfan syndrome or Ehlers–Danlos syndrome — also a complicated lifestyle as a musician.

Dance of the Goblins, by Antonio Bazzini [1852]

I never heard of this one before but as I was listening (and obviously looking at the title), I thought it would fit perfectly with this situation. After all, if Sebastian is a hell of a butler, Ciel is one boy of a goblin.

Pictures at an Exhibition: The Great Gate at Kiev, by Modest Mussorgsky [1874] 

Mussorgsky is very grandiose in his compositions, especially in the Pictures at an Exhibition, so I thought it fit Herman’s speech. 

1812 Overture, by Pyotr Illych Tchaikovsky [1880]

This is a known battle overture with literal cannons with it and it screamed “that last part at Owls vs Lions game” with all its chaos, violence, epicness and victory at the end. 

Devil’s Trill: III. Allegro assai, by Giuseppe Tartini [1713~1740]

It’s… almost self-explanatory by the title. But for those who don’t know, Tartini had a nightmare/dream once that the actual devil showed up to his, in his bed, to simply play the violin and made the most complicated, devilish-structured but perfect music on the instrument. Tartini spent the rest of his days trying to replicate the sound of his dream, “without success” in his words.

Die Entführung aus dem Serail: Act 3. “Bassa Selim lebe lange”, by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart [1782]

It came like a nice addition since the next major arc, the Emerald Witch, is in Germany. Plus, it’s one of my favorite Mozart’s songs from the Amadeus movie — alongside Symphony 45 Allegro, Dies Irae and Confutatis. 

17. In the Dark of the Night (Epic Version), by Alala

No, think of another slender, sinister and bony-like guy we have seen before… 

[prohaloplayer]

hoop stick world championships 2023 backed by a stunning $6,250,000 prize pool ends with a victorian urchin taking home first place prize

[alsopartgekkos]

✣ 𝓔𝓾𝓵𝓪𝓵𝓲𝓪 𝓢𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓹 ✣

Commonly known as Eula or Sharpy [if you're Garreth or don't value your life].

✣𝓑𝓪𝓼𝓲𝓬

Birthday: 26th of December.

Wand: Fir, 11 1/4 inches, Dragon heartstring, Reasonably Supple;

Amortentia: sagebrush, smoke and zest.

Boggart: dead family members;

Animagus form: none;

✣𝓐𝓹𝓹𝓮𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓷𝓬𝓮

Height: 175 cm [5'8.9];

Hair color: natural black;

Eye color: brown;

Scars: her hands are particularly rough with small, barely distinguished scars all over the palms;

✣𝓟𝓮𝓻𝓼𝓸𝓷𝓪𝓵𝓲𝓽𝔂

[headstrong - laid back - meticulous - gruffy - loyal]

From the younger days Eulalia was taught to be polite and self-sufficient. She was her first friend and could always occupy herself with something, most likely potion brewing. That has been her primary talent, coupled with acute sense of smell and strong determination: dreaming of becoming renewed potioneer came naturally to her. However Eula does not really rely on her talent or anything, she strongly believes in hard and continued work, as every result is consequence of effort, hence she would not end up where she is without putting her soul and mind to it. She's throughout to a fault, and on surface level it would seem that she follows rules and norms to a letter, however that's not true. She is not above, as any Gryffindor, to take risks when necessary.

Courageous and quite fearless, she's not above standing not only for her personal goals, but for other people too. Those who are in her inner circle can always count on her, those who are in need of her help will always receive it. [Gryffindor girls are like cubs to her, she'll protecc]Would not tolerate bullying in any form in her presence. On the other hand she wouldn't tolerate whining either.

Despite the initial image of her not too inviting, Eula is very observant: she'll know something is wrong, however she won't always act on her feelings. She will however act on her sharp tongue [pun intended], unfortunately she often does sound sarcastic. Many would find it off-putting, but lucky for them Eula does not really care. That goes for romantic attraction too, Eula naively thinks she's above that one too.

Likes: strong competition, sense of fulfilment, outings for ingredients, brewing potions, fireplaces, sun warmed pine wood, summer nights, picknics.

Dislikes: loud gatherings, being distracted and unable to concentrate, being belittled, bubotuber pus, burnt cauldrons, ignorance, bullying, Dark Magic.

Has a knack for: potion making [has been at it since age 4], gathering ingredients in ungodly places, killing spiders; [manhandling Weasley]

Fears: losing her passion;

Strives for: winning the the Wizarding Schools Potions Championship;

✣𝓑𝓪𝓬𝓴𝓰𝓻𝓸𝓾𝓷𝓭

Known relatives:

Avian Sharp [father]; ministry official in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, Improper Use of Magic Office;

Aesop Sharp [uncle]; former auror, Potions professor at Hogwarts;

Delilah Sharp [nee. Crouch] [mother]; a patron of arts and socialite;

Elija Sharp [younger brother]; a menace;

Grandparents: only grandmother from her mother's side.

The much awaited firstborn child, however a girl, growing up Eula was mostly in the care of the babysitters, as per very victorian way of handling a child. She was quiet and reserved child from the get go.

Sometimes Eula would sneak out and catch her mother brewing something; Delilah was a good potioneer, and it sure was passed down to her daughter. It was what inspired her to try and go to the cauldron.

Aesop was not a often guest due complicated history with Delilah, but when he attended family gatherings, he was one of the few persons to give his niece the very needed attention and it made her value his companionship and seek his approval later in life.

Once Eula was 6, she was kidnapped by dark wizards as form of revenge, fortunately her uncle and later her father rescued her. Since then she was kept a close eye on, and Eula herself was taught magical self-defence once she's got a wand.

Eula pretty much had set her eyes on becoming the potions master when she was about seven. Winning Wizarding Schools Potions Championship became her goal and she started memorising recipes from that time on;

She comes from a long line of Slytherins and everyone thought, that her passion - her ambition - as potion master would land her in the snake house. However what they did not know, that her desire to prove herself and sense of fearlessness easily got her sorted into Gryffindor.

Professor Sharp has been harder on her than on everybody else from day one precisely because every genius needs a lesson in humility.

In her first year Garreth tried to befriend her, showing off his creative concoctions, but she told him he was chopping his mallowsweet the wrong way. He thought she was unimpressed and a know-all. She thought he was overreacting. It was a misunderstanding. They became rivals.

They do not hate each other, as it might seem. She's just tired.

Due to her standoffish demeanor, she quickly got a "Sharp jr." reputation, students from other houses are often afraid to approach her. Gryffindors however are different story.

Her eyebags are vast: she is Gryffindors primary house point getter when it comes to mending the damage done in Potions Class.

People harmed by Garreth's brews always come to her for help and she never refuses to mend the damage. Hence the lack of sleep and irritation towards the Weasley.

Lucan has been bugging her for two years to join Crossed Wands, but she refuses, as it does not seem too worthy of time. She prefers to spar with her uncle instead of her peers.

Would have been a prefect, but it's too time consuming.

Never dreamt of becoming an Auror and will not, especially since her mother's strong aversion of this profession due her family history. Does not want to work at the Ministry either.

Has been successfully tutoring Ominis on her uncle's request and it has been an experience.

✣✣✣

Kat Stratford [10Things I Hate About you] | Wednesday Addams [The Addams Family] | Vannessa Ives [Penny Dreadful] | Annie Leonheart [Shingeki no Kyojin] | Aesop Sharp [bc I literally made her and said oh she looks like sharps niece, so that's it] | Shoko Ieiri [Jujutsu Kaisen]

[imonlyhereforthexreaders]

Gold Rush (part 5)

(Benny Watts x reader)

Warnings: sexism, not proofread

Summary: Benny and the reader enter into their first day amongst competitors for the eastern championship. A cocktail hour and an unwelcome guest bring new questions out.

The hotel was impressive, built in an Victorian style which just reeked of old money. It stood proudly on the shore, settled onto a private boardwalk just a short walk from the usually bustling main boardwalk. The hotel was connected to a long dock, flanked on both sides by large rocks as it extended out into the sea, a few off-shoots implied that boats could be docked there, but at the time none were.

Parking was extremely open despite the size of the convention, as many participants had likely flown in and taken lodging at the hotel. For being the eastern championship, it’s location was central to very few people. As Benny turned off the car and hoisted the parking brake, you felt the familiar bubble of anxiety growing in your stomach. You weren’t worried about the competition. chess you knew well, and chess you were good at. The networking, well that wasn’t your best trick.

“I can’t believe they’re doing cocktail hour at 3 in the afternoon” you remarked, pulling yourself and your coat unenthusiastically from the car.

“Our competition is probably all old men who need to be in bed by 8” he replied only half joking, there were plenty of chess veterans at these events who refuse to retire from the sport.

“No complaints from me though, I’ll be needing a drink or two just to not bash my head on the nearest surface” you complained, doing a final check of yourself in the window of the car before straightening out and joining Benny. You walked together towards the large double doors of the hotel.

“It’s going to be okay” he assured, his voice gentle and encouraging. You just smiled at him weakly in return, walking through the door he held for you.

The inside of the hotel was just as grand as the outside had suggested. Marble covered the expansive foyer, which was furnished with mahogany desks, couches and coffee tables. In the center of the room, the mable floor extended upward in the form of a marble staircase with matching railing, opening into the upper floor which overlooked the foyer. From where you stood, you could make out a large bar as well as seating, tables, and far too many people.

“Maam?” You jumped at the voice to your left, noticing you’d been blocking the entrance as you gawked around your surroundings. The woman addressing you was well dressed in a pencil skirt, stockings, a white blouse and a navy and burgundy necktie.

“Are you checking into a room, ma’am?” You opened your mouth to respond but another voice did this for you.

“No, actually, we’re both competing in the tournament this weekend” Benny explained from behind you, a tight lipped smile on his face and a reassuring hand spread across the small of your back. Benny seemed much more offended by the assumption than you (you’d been asked many times if you were in the wrong room at competitions).

“Right, of course, my apologies” you smiled at the woman, as a sign of forgiveness as she quickly made her way behind the counter, producing a clipboard.

“What are the names?”

“(Y/n) (l/n) and Benny Watts” you replied, taking the opportunity to speak for the both of you as Benny had just a moment before.

“Alright, you’re all checked in! Matches and times are posted upstairs, enjoy your stay” you bid the woman farewell as you approached the grand staircase you had been previously fixated on, Benny only a are behind you.

“You okay?” He inquired, again in that gentle tone. It was so rare to hear him speak in a way that was so different from the sarcastic and pompous attitude he had nearly perfected over the years. You smiled and nodded your head, making your way up the stairs. While you were on time, many people were already crowded into conversations, likely those who lodged there. You quickly spotted a semi secluded table near the railing which overlooked the foyer. You met Benny’s eye and he nodded at the table as well. It was dark mahogany, like all the rest of the furniture and set with 4 tall matching chairs. You took the seat with your back to the wall, Benny taking the seat opposite you. You shrugged off your wool jacket and secured your clutch to the inside pocket. Your eyes scanned the room, taking the many faces, making notes of those who you recognized and more so of those who you didn’t.

“What do you want to drink?” Benny inquired, nodding towards the bar. It was expansive, bottles upon bottles of every alcohol imaginable lined up on dark wooden shelves. As much as you would have liked to ask for a shot to calm yourself, you recognized it was still 3:30 and probably wouldn’t reflect well on you.

“A glass of bubbly would be great” he quirked an eyebrow

“Got the expensive taste for champagne now, have we?” You snorted,

“As if, I mean the bottom shelf carbonated sweet wine” he released a chuckle

“Of course you do, you know we’ll have enough to pay for a glass of champagne on our tan once we win” you smiled and nodded

“Yeah but I like what I like” you smirked before adding “you should be grateful I’m such a cheap date, Watts” he blushes a bit at your words

“Maybe you’ve just never been treated to an expensive date. I bet you’d like it, getting all dolled up to go to a restaurant where you have 5 different forks and 6 different spoons” you looked up at him to smile but his gaze was serious “some pretty little university boy who wears cufflinks and studies accounting, buying you a glass of every red wine on the menu” his eyes never leave yours as he speaks. He’s moved closer, now leaning over you, even on the tall chair you still have to look up at him.

“Is that what you want?” Your face is close from the proximity, the question seems weighted beyond any of the teasing you two had shared before.

“I hate red wine” it came out quiet, wavering a bit from your nerves. You clear your throat in an attempt to regain your composure, “I hate red wine, and one fork and spoon is plenty for me” he doesn’t say anything so you continue “I don’t care about resumes when it comes to matters of the heart, and cufflink boys were never my type”. He seems to accept this answer, stepping back and smirking.

“What is your type then?”

“Buy me my drink first” he laughs,

“Maybe you’re not as cheap of a date as I thought, I have to buy you drinks for a conversation” you poked him in the side playfully

“Not conversations, just questions like that. I’ll talk to you about chess openers completely sober if you’d prefer that” he grimaced, the majority of the drive after… well, the incident… had been spent discussing openers and you could tell he was as sick of it as you were.

“Bubbly it is” you smile as you watch him walk off towards the bar. Looking across the crowd you spot a flash of red hair. It’s a girl, if you hadn’t seen her name on the rooster you would have been completely shocked. It must be a new record to have two women competing in chess Eastern championship. She was attractive, hair cut into a bob, large doe eyes and tall, slim body. She carried herself with a subtle confidence that you could admire, a stark opposition to Benny’s flair for dramatic bravado.

“Are you here with someone, miss?” The voice to your right made her jump. A man with dark hair slicked back stood beside you, he had a pale face and eyes, and wore a well tailored pair of brown slacks, matching his vest and most likely his jacket though he must have left it at another table. Due to the lack of jacket you can see his starched white dress and on his wrists: cufflinks.

He wasn’t unattractive by any means, he looked well groomed and preppy, but as you had previously discussed, cufflink boys just weren’t your type. Despite this you give him a tight smile.

“My friend, he’s grabbing us drinks” you explain, hoping it would deter the man. It does not, he pulls out the chair beside you uninvited.

“It’s nice you came out to see your friend compete, my name’s Theodore McDonugh” you manage to smile, through your annoyance.

“Pleasure to meet you, and my friend and I are actually both competing” his eyes widen though he tries to hide it, opening his mouth before closing it again. You internally cringe at the whole situation “Do you go by anything short of Theodore? Ted? Teddy?” You don’t particularly care, but you’re trying to give him something else to say to save yourself from the backhanded remarks that we’re sure to come (“I wouldn’t have thought someone like you would play”, “it’s nice to have a face like yours in the sport”, “the league must really be trying to being in some diversity”) he scoffs in remark,

“Maybe when I was 5, now it’s just Theodore. I never got your name by the way?” God this guy takes himself way too seriously.

“(Y/n) (l/n)” you offer shortly, trying to think of a way out of the situation “I ought to go, I told my friend I wanted a glass of wine but I think I’d rather have a beer” he twists his face.

“Beer isn’t the most feminine beverage” he notes, man you really hate this guy, you open your mouth to finally let him have it-

“Hitting on another guy’s girl while he’s getting drinks isn’t the most masculine move either” the voice comes from behind you, setting two glasses onto the table and placing his arm around the back of your chair, “anything I’m misunderstanding?” Theodore’s pale face got impossibly paler,

“I’m sorry, I didn’t realize, I’ll be on my way” he’s quickly shuffling out of his seat.

“Bye Ted” you smile wickedly, as he sends you a look of disgust and anger before catching Benny’s hard gaze and remembering to be on his way. Once he’s left you release a sigh,

“God, I hate these events” you grab your large bubbly glass, taking a long sip “and that’s why I hate cufflink guys, they’re so condescending” Benny nods, taking a swig from his bottle of what you assumed to be beer.

“When you said things like that happened, I didn’t realize you meant immediately upon setting foot inside” you give a weak smile and shrug,

“It’s whatever, it’s good you came over though I was about to say some things to make him cry. It’s easy to make Cufflink boys cry” he chuckled,

“I take it you’ve done it before?” You nod through a smile,

“Oh yeah, when a guy with a name like Theodore refuses to shorten it, I just know all I have to do is talk him into the ground over chess standings and they’ll usually come off the roster by the next morning” he throws his head back laughing, and the discomfort of the prior situation is forgotten.

“Good thing I go by Benny then” he smiled, taking another swig of his drink, “I can’t afford to scratch and lose the money I paid in entry fees” you laugh in return

“Cufflink boys usually can, that’s why they’re not my type. I don’t dislike them for having money, I dislike them because they think it can buy the game”

“Ah so we’re talking about types now” he teases, tracing the rim of his bottle with his silver adorned fingers.

“I’m a girl of my word, you brought me my bubbly and I entertain your question” you reply leaning back into your seat, allowing the drink to warm your body and soothe your mind.

“So now that we’ve covered what isn’t your type, what is?” He inquired, leaning curiously across the table, studying how your body uncurled into a state of relaxation having been tight as a wire just moments ago.

“Physically I don’t have a very specific type, tall is always good, a pleasant smile is nice, I have a soft spot for dark eyes” Benny nodded along with genuine interest. “But I’m more for personality, I like someone caring, someone who respects me but doesn’t take me too seriously, someone who doesn’t take themselves too seriously either” you smile lightly at the last bit, as your mind taking all the necessary precautions to not make statements too specific to the man in front of you. “Someone who I could sit and do nothing with and still love every moment”

“And definitely no cufflinks?” Benny questions, you laugh

“No cufflinks, no excessive silverware, and no red wine” you confirmed, finishing off your glass pointily. As a waiter walks by you manage to flag him down to refill your glass.

“Anyways, what about you?” you question, leaning back into your seat. He cocks his head slightly in confusion, “your type” you clarify, he chuckles.

“Would you believe me if I told you that I’m not too picky physically either?” You snorted at the possibility

“Not for a second” he sighs in defeat, you’ve known Benny’s popularity with women for his swagger and attitude, although you many times tried to ignore it.

“Okay, okay, so I’m a bit of a player, but I really don’t have that specific of a type. I mean physically, I like a nice smile, good legs, a sense of style… obviously” he mentioned, gesturing to his very individual getup complete with cowboy hat and dagger. “But if we’re talking about a real relationship, I’d say I like a girl who’s witty, isn’t easily intimidated; I mean I can be a lot” he admitted with a chuckle, and you nod in confirmation to this. “Someone I could sit and do nothing with and still love every moment” he finished. You could feel the heat rising to your face,

“Sounds like a tall order” he laughs.

[openshanklygates]

What Is Righteous

Whumpril 2024 April 1, 2024 LIMP Tyler Bateman/Savannah O'Ryan (Original Character) Main Verse

These new friends her Vincent found himself surrounded with were not exactly the kind of men that made Savannah O'Ryan comfortable. Maybe it was because she was still stuck on how exactly Vincent had joined up with said new friends. The betrayal of the man she loved against her brother, TK O'Ryan, and the man she considered a brother, Matt Taven, had been something that broke her at the core. Meeting these new friends had not been any better. But Savannah was a bleeding heart, so seeing anyone who needed a home tugged at her heartstrings.

Tyler Bateman reminded Savannah of a Victorian gentleman in a way. It was in the way he carried himself, using a cane to work as a fashion statement instead of a support. The top hat he wore added to the mystique, though she knew it was all in the mustache. The way it twisted at both ends, as if curled perfectly, stood out to the young manager. It made Tyler unique, even alongside the larger of Vincent's new friends, a simple man by the name of Dutch, and even Vincent himself. It was that uniqueness that almost always drew her attention when he was around. That wasn't the case tonight.

Vincent, acting as the benevolent leader of his new team The Righteous, had chosen Bateman as the representative for the team in the annual Survival of the Fittest tournament. If Bateman could qualify, could make his presence felt, it would undoubtedly lead to glory for the team. The problem was that Bateman had lost to Bandido, had not moved on to the qualifier. The honor was lost and Vincent was not pleased. Before he had led Dutch and Savannah to the ring, she had tried to plead with him. "Vincent, darlin', please. He's your friend, ain't he? You ain't gotta be mad at him..."

Vincent had simply given her the smile that did not reach his eyes, carding a hand through her wavy blonde hair, "I gotta do what has to be done, Vannah. Ya dig what I'm sayin'?"

Now here the three stood, circled around Bateman who sat looking dejected in the center of the ring.

"You know I would never lie to you like the rest of society, man," Vincent began, sitting down cross-legged on the mat next to Bateman, "I know you were born with the devil in ya. I mean, that's why I gave you the mission, man. And you've done amazing! You've done such a good job! But on my journey alongside the orange sunshine, I had a moment of clarity, and I've realized what's been important to me now. And that's the Ring of Honor World Championship."

He had sounded happy for a moment. Savannah stood in the corner, watching the tears in Bateman's eyes. He really had done well, despite his loss. Dutch stood behind Bateman, never faltering, never wavering. Savannah often wondered if the former clown knew more than he let on in situations like these. Vincent's hand reached out to touch the openly sobbing Bateman's shoulder and Savannah expected a moment of praise. Her blood ran cold the moment Vincent spoke again.

"But ya failed me..."

Savannah moved forward and whispered to her beau, "He's upset enough. You-"

Vincent cut her off with a look. The message was clear. This message needed to be passed on, it served a purpose, and she was not to interrupt again. "Death," Vincent continued as he glanced back at Bateman, "is the greatest form of love."

Tyler raised his arms, outstretched to either side, and closed his eyes. Savannah was confused until Vincent glanced from her to the man offering himself as a martyr. Vincent expected her to attack, to be the first nail to the cross. Wordlessly, her blue eyes welled up with pleading tears. She wanted to beg, to ask why they had to sacrifice a friend, but the look in Vincent's eyes was a demand. They had to do this, for the cause.

She had to do this for him.

Savannah booted Tyler in the face, the sole of the black snakeskin boots she always wore landing hard against his cheek. She knelt over the top of him, one hand on his neck and the other throwing weak punches. She wasn't a fighter. She shouldn't be doing this. "I'm sorry," she mouthed at the limp body beneath her, at the friend who offered no fight. Vincent pulled her away after a moment, wrapping his arms around her from behind. Dutch finally moved, pulling Bateman's limp body into a standing position and wrenching his head back to expose Bateman's throat.

"This is what failure brings," Vincent whispered in her ear, pressing a kiss to her hair as Dutch lifted the man for a spinning slam to the hard canvas of the mat, "This is what failing you brings."

She was crying openly now, one of her hands on her red painted lips, "I don't...I don't understand. Why...he's our friend..."

"He's a sacrifice for my goddess," Vincent chuckled, "he will come back better. Stronger."

Vincent let go of her, crossing to exit the ring with Dutch. Savannah knelt at Tyler's side, holding his limp hand in her own. This wasn't right. None of this was right. She slid the flower crown she wore from her head, laying it against Tyler's chest before pressing a tender kiss to his forehead. It may not have been right, but that act of kindness was the least she could do.

[grandmaster-anne]

FUTURE ENGAGEMENTS OF THE PRINCESS ROYAL

6 October 2022

Grand Master, The Royal Victorian Order, will attend the Annual Evensong and Reception, Savoy Chapel, Savoy Hill, London WC2.

Colonel, The Blues and Royals (Royal Horse Guards and 1st Dragoons), will attend the Blues and Royals Club Annual Dinner at Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park London, 66 Knightsbridge, London SW1.

7 October 2022

Patron, Minchinhampton Surgery Charitable Trust, will attend a Reception at Chavenage House, Tetbury, Gloucestershire.

8 October 2022

Patron, the Wooden Spoon Society, will attend the VetsFest Rugby Tournament at Moseley Rugby Club, Billesley Common, Yardley Wood Road, Billesley, Birmingham, West Midlands.

11 October 2022

Will visit the Lakes Distillery at Cockermouth, Setmurthy, Cumbria.

President, Riding for the Disabled Association, will visit the Blairgowrie Group at Easter Rattray Farm, Blairgowrie, Perth and Kinross.

Will visit the International Fire and Rescue Association training facility at Strathore Road, Thornton, Kirkcaldy, Fife.

12 October 2022

Patron, Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, will hold a 50th Anniversary of Patronage Reception at St. James's Palace.

Will attend the Annual National Service for Seafarers at St. Paul's Cathedral, St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4.

Court Member, The Fishmongers' Company, will attend the Court Autumn Dinner at Fishmongers' Hall, London Bridge, London EC4.

13 October 2022

Patron, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, will attend a Reception at Members' Dining Room, House of Commons, London SW1.

Patron, The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (UK), will attend the Women in Logistics Annual Conference at Volvo Trucks UK and Ireland, Wedgnock Lane, Warwick, Warwickshire.

Life Vice President, National Federation of Young Farmers' Clubs, will attend a 90th Anniversary Dinner at the Farmers Club, 3 Whitehall Court, London SW1.

14 October 2022

President, Riding for the Disabled Association, will open new North Pembrokeshire and Cardigan Premises at Havard Stables, Dinas Cross, Newport, Dyfed.

Will open Haverfordwest High School at Queensway, Haverfordwest, Dyfed.

Will attend the 2022 World Rowing Coastal Championships Beach Sprints and open the Coastal Schooner Interpretation Centre at Saundersfoot Harbour Events Deck, Saundersfoot, Dyfed.

17 October 2022

Past Master, the Worshipful Company of Woolmen, will attend a Dinner at Mansion House, Walbrook, London EC4.

Gatcombe Park: Guardian, Give Them a Sporting Chance, will hold a Management Team Meeting at Gatcombe Park.

Gatcombe Park: Guardian, The Chaffinch Trust, will hold a Management Team Meeting at Gatcombe Park.

18 October 2022

Will attend the Clothiers Company 500th Anniversary of Ordinances Dinner, the Guildhall, High Street, Worcester, Worcestershire.

19 October 2022

Patron, Sense Scotland, will open TouchBase East Dunbartonshire, 59 Springfield Road, Bishopbriggs, Dunbartonshire.

Patron, Columba 1400, will attend a Reception and Dinner at Blair Estate, Dalry, Ayr and Arran.

Patron, Seagull Trust Cruises, will re-commission Canal Passenger Boat, 100 Southbank Road, Kirkintilloch, Dunbartonshire.

20 October 2022

President, Riding for the Disabled Association, will visit Ashmount, Ruddington & Wenlo RDA Groups at Meadow School of Riding, Bowley's Barn Farm, Stanford Lane, Normanton-on-Soar, Loughborough, Nottinghamshire.

Will attend the Seven Seas Club Centenary and Trafalgar Night Dinner at the National Liberal Club, 1 Whitehall Place, London SW1.

Will visit Kays Scotland, 9 Barskimming Road, Mauchline, Ayr and Arran.

21 October 2022

Patron, Maritime UK, will launch the National Centre for Coastal Autonomy at Plymouth Marine Laboratory, Prospect Place, Plymouth, Devon.

Will visit the Centre for Space Technologies at Cornwall Airport Newquay, St. Mawgan, Newquay, Cornwall.

Will visit Communications Facility, Goonhilly Downs, Helston, Cornwall.

1 November 2022

Will visit the restored Junk Yacht Boleh at Haslar Marina, Gosport, Hampshire.

Patron, The Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity, will open the Gosport Services Community Hub at Brune Park Community School, Military Road, Gosport, Hampshire.

Will visit the restored Junk Yacht Boleh at Haslar Marina, Gosport, Hampshire.

3 November 2022

Will attend a Luncheon at Coutts, 440 Strand, London WC2.

Patron, The Royal College of Emergency Medicine, will attend a Conference at Octavia House, 54 Ayres Street, London SE1.

President, British Olympic Association, will attend the TeamGB Dinner in Central London (venue tbc).

4 November 2022

Patron, Moredun Foundation, will attend a Conference at Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, Midlothian.

5 November 2022

Patron, Scottish Rugby Union, will attend Scotland versus Fiji International Rugby Match at Murrayfield Stadium, the City of Edinburgh.

8 November 2022

Royal Fellow, The Royal Academy of Engineering, will attend a New Fellows' Dinner at Drapers' Hall, Throgmorton Street, London EC2.

9 November 2022

Patron, Learning and Work Institute, will attend an 'Art for the People' event at City Lit College, 1 - 10 Keeley Street, London WC2.

Chancellor, Harper Adams University, will attend a 'How do we achieve Net Zero in Farming and Food?' discussion at Rabobank, Thames Court, One Queenhithe, London.

Commandant-in-Chief (Youth), St. John Ambulance, will hold a Young Achievers' Reception at St. James's Palace.

10 November 2022

President, World Horse Welfare, will attend the Annual Conference at Royal Geographical Society, 1 Kensington Gore, London SW7.

Patron, Wetwheels Foundation, will attend a Reception at Mansion House, Walbrook, London EC4.

11 November 2022

as President, Royal Yachting Association, will chair the Annual General Meeting, attend awards ceremony and luncheon at One Great George Street, London SW1.

15 November 2022

President, Riding for the Disabled Association, will visit the Maisemore Group to mark the Fiftieth Anniversary at Hartpury College and University, Hartpury, Gloucestershire.

16 November 2022

Patron, St Margaret's Chapel Guild, will attend an Annual Service at St. Margaret's Chapel and subsequently attend the Annual General Meeting, Queen Anne Room, Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh.

will attend a Service to mark the nine hundred and fiftieth Anniversary of the Founding of Priory at Dunfermline Abbey, St. Margaret Street, Dunfermline, Fife.

24 November 2022

Chancellor, University College of Osteopathy, will attend the Graduation Ceremony at Bridge Theatre, 3 Potters Fields Park, London, SE1.

will attend a Biennial Reunion Reception of the Association of Royal Yachtsmen at the Royal Thames Yacht Club, 60 Knightsbridge, London SW1.

25 November 2022

Colonel in Chief, Intelligence Corps, will take the salute at a Passing Out Parade at Chicksands, Bedfordshire.

[ao3feed-ineffablehusbandz]

no such dear delusion

no such dear delusion

by solsides

Heaven is watching. Hell is watching. God is watching, that’s what they told her, and they are an angel and a demon who do not have a nice little country house to run away to, away from prying eyes.

  If they see, they’ll know. They’ll take her from me. They’ll destroy her.

 She thinks she could write boxes and boxes of letters about it. But she can’t say a damn word.

--

how to speak without speaking (and how to fail)

Words: 3121, Chapters: 1/1, Language: English

Series: Part 3 of sol solsides' TWB MCC fics

Fandoms: Good Omens (TV)

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences

Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply

Categories: F/F

Characters: Aziraphale (Good Omens), Crowley (Good Omens)

Relationships: Aziraphale/Crowley (Good Omens)

Additional Tags: Ineffable Wives | Female Aziraphale/Female Crowley (Good Omens), historical queer presence, on the presence of love, One Shot, The Writer's Block MCC Pink Parrots, The Writer's Block Minecraft Championships 2023 (Video Blogging RPF), much use of old late victorian love letters, mostly just prose about the sun

From https://ift.tt/KdkmBaw https://archiveofourown.org/works/48031504

[akitasimblr]

clive harper my former vampire and last spare of the legacy is gonna apply to beloved by brandie (@wrixie) and try his luck!

Age: 30s

Pronouns: He/Him

Traits: Erratic - Outgoing - Family-Oriented - Good Manners - Observant - Mediator - Happy Toddler

Bio: clive comes from a victorian lineage of vampires from his mother side. unfortunately for him, he inherited vampiric genes. clive’s deep wish to be… just a normal, apple-pie kind of sim came true! he reversed his vampirism and he is now a mere human sim - and he couldn’t feel happier!

clive is the baby of the family, being the last kid of a long line of children. he had a very happy childhood and has an excellent relation with all of his siblings. but he never liked being a vampire.

clive is an erratic, friendly and family-oriented vampire who aspires to be a super parent one day. he was taught how to play the piano and the guitar - but he prefers the guitar! this boy has an extensive knowledge of classic metal rock and as a teen he won oasis springs’ bowling championship!

clive joined blue's club (@ wileyfern) and he made true friends while on that save. but now he's looking for the sim to spend his life with, to raise a family with and grow older with - just like his parents. clive is a good soul with a kind heart and maybe beloved by brandie is where he's gonna finally find his soulmate!

[blorbocedes]

-cracks knuckles- Arthur's first podium with both Max and Charles is exactly how it should be. Idk what would be worse, if Charles' get first but he's not the centre of Max's attention (he wants Austria22 without knowing he wants Austria22), or Max gets first and he doesn't care at all because he's so happy for Arthur, he lifts him up in an embrace and twirls him around :) Of course, when the picture has to be taken, Max tells Arthur he looks wrecked in the dirtiest but also most innocent way possible, and Arthur gets flustered, while Charles is scandalised because that's his baby brother (also why aren't you saying to that me?? hello max, don't I look debauched to you??) but he can't say a thing... Because Arthur does look messy because of the racing + champagne and he doesn't want to push Arthur away by being possessive-- Well, unless you /want/ Charles to accidentally send Arthur straight into Max's arms, in that case he can say something and be a bit too much of an asshole about it and oh no, Arthur might get pissed and kiss Max to spite Charles, uh oh 🤭

this has incredibly horny energy, thank you anon. A-lestappens winning we're into it........ I think there's just something so 😳😳😳 about max hitting on arthur in Front of charles..... yeah tell him he looks wrecked whatre you gonna do about it...... arthur ofc as all younger siblings when faced with older sibling's hot friend is thinking with hormones over sibling solidarity rn. charl being possessive of arthur cause that's His baby brother!!! but then charl also being possessive of max cause that's His championship rival wtf what they had is Special...... it also forces charles Victorian novel protagonist ass to stop denying every advance while also expecting to be pursued and confront what he wants from max, at the redbull party....

that is ofc until he sees max sloppily making out with arthur, hands under his shirt 😭