#amils introduction

[amilzzx]

HABITS RABBIT ⦻

[Introductory post in which I have decided to change completely because I kept updating the other one]

This is particularly a account I post my art on, not necessarily used for anything besides that. Although I DO have a tendency of being insecure about my art because I'm still improving like any other person who draws out there.

BASIC INFORMATION

❝ Who is this irresistible creature who has an insatiable love for the dead? ❞

I post irregularly on this account. It can range from posting back to back to not posting for weeks; It depends. I have lvl 1 asd, So I will sometimes be unable to know when too much is too much when I get excited.

-- DMS or requests are NOT open, and will never actually be open. I get overwhelmed when people other than my mutuals or people I'm comfortable with message me.

-- Most of my drawings are around the lines of my ocs, slenderverse, creepypasta, or fnaf. I do post a lot of shitposts or drawings that I put barely any effort in.

-- I do not support Adam Rosner.

STRAWPAGE

img credits: sheriffmiller

[finfinfan1997]

Fin Fin introduction page on parex.co.jp featuring a menu in Flash.

"Another Earth was discovered beyond the distant universe. The name of the star is "TEO". TEO is a planet that looks like the Earth, has air and water, and many creatures live there. Among the creatures, this "Fin Fin" became our first friend."

"What does Fin Fin always eat?? Fin Fin eats vitamin-rich lemo fruits and nutritious whelk seeds. In Amil Forest, we can feed Fin Fin lemo fruits."

"What is Fin Fin’s hobby??  Fin Fin loves to sing. When he is in a good mood, he sings beautifully. His songs are also a message to his friends and to us."

"What is Fin Fin’s speciality?? When Fin Fin is in a good mood or happy, he performs complex aerobatics, some of which are spectacular and sometimes act as a signal to his companions."

[curiouselleth]

Be He Foe or Friend

Decided to start posting this here as well! (ao3)

Be He Foe or Friend is a Silmarillion choose your own adventure fic I've been writing for a little while now, and right now I have 3 rounds of chapters out (including the first one.) At the end of each chapter there is a choice, and the one you choose corresponds with which chapter you read next! Right now I have the next chapters on ao3 linked in the options at the bottom, and I'll be reblogging this post with the next chapters!

This is written in second POV, as if you, the reader, are Lalwen.

Chapter 1: Introductions

“You are still young and this is a big step, my darling Lalwen, but as my daughter and princess of the Noldor, it is time you start attending court and finding your role as a princess of our people. I know you are unsure, but I have every confidence that the people will adore you.” your father said encouragingly.

“Are you sure, atar? I fear due to the controversy of your and amil’s marriage I may be ill received not just in the court, but by the people if I begin to take a greater role…”

Finwë tucks a braid behind your ear, “do not fear my darling, Fingolfin and I will be with you the entire time, even Fëanor will be there today.”

You smile, take a shaky breath, and nod, “I suppose we should stop stalling, then.”

“Lalwen, my daughter, my darling, my precious. You are the one stalling, not me!” we laughed.

---

The court hall had always been lavishly adorned. Precious metals were inlaid into the very stone of the walls and floor, running like rivers and vines. The floor is a beautiful mosaic depicting the path the Noldor traveled from the very waters of Cuiviénen in the far east to the border of the home of the Noldor in the west, the white city of Tirion. The thrones sat on a raised dais, and upon each step a level of the city is depicted, until the top step, which shows the gardens outside this very hall, with the thrones in the middle sitting where the Court Hall would be depicted on the mosaic. 

Windows of vibrantly colored glass depicting scenes of the Noldor’s travels and crafts starting nigh a step up from the floor stretch fathoms up, nearly to the ceiling where finely polished gemstones hanging in the eaves and vaults of the roof sparkle brilliantly in the light of the two trees. Between the windows hang intricately woven tapestries displaying the symbols of all the different Craft Guilds gently billowing as a breeze passes through the great doors of the hall.

Today the hall is filled with Noldor dressed in their finest clothes and jewels, and so many elves that they had to remove the benches that lined the halls to make more space. Garlands of flowers and vines stretch across the hall- no, not flowers! Finely crafted stones, ores and gems, shaped and arranged so realistically that one who was not accustomed to the Noldor would not even see the difference between these and the most beautiful of Yavanna’s blooms. If the light of the trees were any brighter the scene would be near blinding with the light reflecting off all the gems, metalwork, and polished stone. 

There were also minstrels scattered through the hall, playing soft, joyful melodies and harmonies, for today a new Princess of the Noldor was taking her place in the court.

As the Royal family enters, a hush falls over the hall, so that the very steps of even baby Finarfin, your young brother, can be heard by the elves' ears.

Finwë leads your family in with Indis and baby Finarfin between them, as they pass the people bow, then Fëanor, Nerdanel his wife, pregnant again already! You marvel for a brief moment, and their son Maedhros. Next Fingolfin, your brother, and his betrothed Anarie. 

Then it’s your turn. After you pass, the elves rise from their bow, and when you reach the dias and turn, about to take your seat, they erupt into thunderous applause and cheering.

It took several minutes for the crowd to quiet again so Finwë could properly introduce your joining the court. Such was their excitement to have a new Princess in court, as your sister Findis discovered that court was not for her and had begun contemplating becoming a devotee of Varda. The rest of the court session passed in a blur, so luckily there were not any matters that required your attention.

Unlike Findis, Fingolfin, your brother, had taken to court and politics like a… well like how only a prince of the Noldor could. 

Fëanor too had taken to courtly matters quickly as well, though his true passions were lore and smithing. Even though he was your half-brother, and your eldest sibling, you did not know much more about him then any other elf, as his disdain for Indis, your mother, and Fingolfin, your brother, usually resulted in him visiting seldom, and on the few occasions he did, he was rather haughty, although never to the point of being straight out rude. He seemed rather tolerable on easier topics though, the few times you had the chance to speak.

Perhaps it was seeing how confident Fëanor and Fingolfin were and how sure in themselves and their beliefs they were was what made you hold your head higher, and even began to allow a seed of courage to begin to take root. 

---

Perhaps you should’ve expected someone would ask you about it. It had been controversial from the start, and the memory of elves was long, so it may always be so. But when they asked you if you thought it was fair to Míriel, who was barred from ever being re-embodied when your parents married, it still shook you. For you to say it was unfair would be to say that you wish yourself, your sister, and brothers would never, should never have been born, and your parents never married. 

To say that it was not unfair to Míriel who was to be left dead permanently was to appear callus, saying that she made her choice and should never be returned to life.

Your half brother, Fëanor, the son of Míriel, would never miss the opportunity to argue for justice for his mother. But none could blame him, for he alone in all elves born in Valinor knew the pain of the death of a parent, in the undying lands. And furthermore the strange feeling of the loss of one who will never return. 

Your brother Fingolfin usually took a more delicate approach, recognizing that Míriel did make a choice for herself, so Finwë had the right to do the same for himself.

All this passed through your mind in a flash, and you voiced your support for:

Fëanor’s position that it was unjust to Míriel, and Fëanor himself for he lost his mother permanently. Go to Fëanor’s Position

Fingolfin’s position that Míriel made her choice, sad that it was, and Finwë had the right to seek happiness when Míriel chose to leave, as Manwe, King of All Arda, declared Finwë’s right to remarry. Go to Fingolfin’s Position.

Allowing everyone, including Finwë and Míriel, privacy in difficult decisions such as these and that the discussion of such personal matters should not be a matter of public debate, despite the fact that it was about their King. Go to Privacy for Eru’s Sake!

[tillman]

“Even the news of the death of Galehot fails to move him, so absorbed with Guinevere is he at the moment; “he would have grieved thereat, but this was neither the place nor the time”. Lancelot and Galehot, accordingly, cannot be put on a par with some of the other pairs of friends made famous in story, such, for example, as Achilles and Patroclus, Orestes and Pylades, Amis and Amile. Upon none of these great friendships is the author specifically basing that of Lancelot and Galehot*, although it is perhaps worth noticing as one of the rare cases in Arthurian prose romance where classical legend may possibly be conceived to have exercises a constructive influence^— and extremely weak at that—in an episode, that the fight of Lancelot for the body of Galehot, to which he is incited by the damsel sent to him by the Lady of the Lake, faintly recalls the part of Achilles in the fight for the body of Patroclus…”

hey lucy? hey uh. lucy allen paton. hey this is a cool point youre trying to make here with how lancelot immediately stops thinking about galehaut after his death (his mom literally tells him to. because they are going to be buried together when they die. its like. a whole thing. its a comfort to him.) but like. lucy. legend. you translated the bit lancelot finds out galehauts dead. you know this is an active lie in the introduction to your translation of the vulgate. lucy. galehauts death is only like 200 pages after this. you know that line you used isnt from lancelot finding out galehauts dead. you know thats from after he buries him. you know this. you translated it. look your translation is right here. you know this. legend. you know this. 

legend you know lancelot tries to kill himself when he finds out galehaut is dead you translated it

[thatwritergirlsblog]

Official "To Wear A Crown" Introduction

I've been sharing a lot about my novel "To Wear A Crown" over the last year or so, but I don't think I ever actually made a post on what it's about etc. So here it is...

Genre & Age category: Political Low Fantasy, Adult

Summary:

"A STORM IS COMING AND YOU'D BETTER DECIDE ON WHICH SIDE OF IT YOU'RE GONNA BE STANDING ..."

Lad Markham Aesher is attacked in the capital city’s slums weeks before the start of the 16th Election of the People’s Monarchy of Aldahad. Thus, Staella Thenos ‒ an ex-cage fighting champion hiding from the law, is employed as his protector.

She arrives to find a city on the precipice of chaos. Markham’s fellow Representatives are disappearing. A Rebellion is brewing in Yaekós’ underbelly. And a dark presence haunts the Aesher manor at nightfall.

As Staella uncovers Markham’s secrets, she is sucked into a world more dangerous than she could ever have imagined.

Important characters (+ face claims) :

Staella Thenos (Madeleine Petsch)

Markham Aesher (Matthew Nozka)

Leda Hayvinger (Jasmine Tookes)

Amile Qarvette (Drew Roy)

Maci Blomehill (Gemma Chan)

Mycah Delaney (Chrishell Stubbs)

Saul Knoxin (Garrett Hedlund)

Chrisjon Damhere (Michael Hudson)

My progress: I am done drafting and self-editing. The book has been through two alpha readers and a critique partner. I finished with the edits based on their feedback and then sent it to beta readers. I am currently busy with beta reader edits. After that, I will set up a query letter and synopsis and start querying literary agents.

[daxieoclock]

Prim Introduction Session: Hunters Highlights

Heya folks!!!! We just closed out an absolutely amazing session of the Hunters campaign, and I am still losing my fucking mind over it. It was some of the most fun I’ve had in this campaign, second only to the Sammy intro session, and I refuse to let it go unshared.

I’ve included a transcript of the two major scenes below; there was a scene between Lena and Amil, and another between Blake and Amil, that I’m disincluding – but I do plan on including both in the ongoing Hunters Highlight doc, once I get the spoons to update it.

For now though, I hope you all enjoy this cause it was a fucking BLAST to take part in.

EDIT: I’ve added an amazing piece of campaign art from @thesunsetbox​ in here at the appropriate moment because i am legally obliged to share it with everyone.

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) Once more, you find yourselves in that strange little clearing, facing the grinning, spritely entity with that scar over one yellow eye. Sakio isn't anywhere to be seen, but the path to the Spire of Forfeit is yet open. "Gentles," Puck says, hushed and excited. "Thou hast come to face the one who sings to the heavens, the false deity perched atop his towering sin. Today, I give you naught but my blessing; and a promise. From this honest Puck, I beseech you. Survive, and return here. Should you do so, I will have such gifts to grant you the likes of which have never been seen in any world."

Sammy Cabra (Nyanko) Sammy's fractal outfit is...a little kitty poncho over their normal clothes. It looks handmade. There's a big bell on the front of it. Sammy even feels the top of their head where the ears are to make sure their horns are still tucked underneath.

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) "And a special greetings to you, gentle." Puck gives Sammy a wide smile and a resonant, mischievous giggle. "I trust you found my invitation to be to your liking. You seem to find yourself among birds of a feather." He throws his head back and laughs at his own joke.

Blake Leto (Jane 🐈) “You mean to tell us you invited Sammy here?” Blake says, shooting a glare at Puck.

Lena Tarr (Dave) Lena groans.

Sammy Cabra (Nyanko) "A special greeting" Sammy repeats

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) "Through an associate." He glances to the side with dramatic flair, posing his chin on one hand as if playing at reservation. "I dreamed a dream one summer night, and found myself at the feet of a hermit. Bare and kind, bold and slumbering. They offered me one hand of many, and I am simply returning the favor."

Blake Leto (Jane 🐈) “Can I take that to mean something similar occurred with all of us?”

Lena Tarr (Dave) "I wanna hit stuff. So bad."

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) "Did you not receive such a missive before you first arrived?" Puck asks. "I sent word, and a key; to a stargazer, an esurient, a prescient, and an eminence. And you arrived here to greet me, along with your newfound quiescent."

Blake Leto (Jane 🐈) “To translate that,” Blake says to the group, flipping through their journal idly. “We have here the one responsible for sending that bird to meet us, and deliver us that key.” And they grin, looking up at Puck again. “My question is why.”

Lena Tarr (Dave) Lena stares blankly.

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) Puck bursts out laughing. "My dear gentle, have you not been listening?" He raises a hand above his head, and snaps his fingers. You hear an echo through the junkyard, a familiar voice tinged with distance, despite the fact that he sits right in front of you.

"Be we comrades, we are such fools as to embrace with one hand and tear flesh with another. As they are inmates seeking escape, I am the content jester who admires his cell."

And as the voice fades, Puck speaks again, from his own mouth, clear as day. "Those monstrosities who twist this world are but tumors, overgrowths of concept, boiling seas and setting winds to roil. They would gorge themselves on this place until naught remains but ash, and then turn to the world you gentles call home." Despite his dire words, his tone remains light, almost playful.

Blake Leto (Jane 🐈) “Enough. I get it.” Blake waves a hand dismissively, like even they’re annoyed by the cryptic speech. “In that case, all we’re doing is wasting time talking to you, aren’t we?”

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) "I enjoy it," Puck says, sounding almost genuinely hurt. "Should you die, I would lose the gift of your company. A tragedy in itself."

Lena Tarr (Dave) "Can't you pop over on our side?"

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) "Can a fish swim through air to converse with landwalkers?" Puck retorts.

Lena Tarr (Dave) "Isn't that like. Evolution."

Ilse Belanger (Ralu) “Depends on the fish?”

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) Puck seems to consider that. "Perhaps then I shall...'evolve,' in time. But as it stands, I am but a jester, and this," he gestures around him, "is but my cell."

Lena Tarr (Dave) Lena nods. "Then let's not die." And she starts towards the spire.

Blake Leto (Jane 🐈) “Yes, we’ll certainly try,” Blake says with their trademark smile, their voice betraying them with hints of impatience and irritation. They nod to Puck and also start toward the spire after Lena

Sammy Cabra (Nyanko) Sammy spins in a circle to make their bell jingle at Puck before chasing after everyone

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) Puck claps like a delighted child at the display.

Ilse Belanger (Ralu) Ilse got lost in awe by Sammys spin, got out by the clasp noise, mutters a thank you to Puck and then runs after Sammy and everyone too

**************

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) you meet sakio at the spire, and then she guides you inside and to the dumbwaiter which takes you all the way up to the 9th floor of 10 She pauses at the staircase and takes a deep breath. "Alright. If there's anything left for you all to do, I suggest you do it now. Once we're through that door up there, the Behemoth is going to come at us full force. We won't have time to do much more than fight. This foe won't be quite like any Shadow you've faced so far, so be careful." She steadies herself. "When you're ready, let us go."

Sammy Cabra (Nyanko) Sammy looks worried, but determined. They do a little shake to jingle all their jitters out. "I'm ready and steady..."

Lena Tarr (Dave) "Eh." She looks ready.

Ilse Belanger (Ralu) Ilse it ready, but still fidgeting with their newish ring

Blake Leto (Jane 🐈) “Ah, yes.” Blake turns to address Sammy. “Since this is your first formal battle with us, let me just assure you. Do as you did in our last battle, and I’ll provide support. Count on me.”

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) "Alright." With one last careful breath, she ascends the staircase. The vestibule of the tenth floor isn't quite as quiet as before. Those double doors to where the Behemoth is resting are there, closed tight, but odd, otherworldly green light is spilling out into the vestibule from beneath the doorframe. It pulses like the beat of a heart, one two, one two. And in front of the door, eyes locking on you the moment you are in view, is a woman.

Her hair is the color of blood, crimson that spills over her shoulders, long and curled and tangled. She is wearing something that almost resembles a dress; a plain, black, tight-fitting top that organically flows into a knee-length skirt, and beneath it you can see full leg tights of the same material as that top. She also isn't wearing shoes. But her eyes are what draws you, set in pale skin above lips with black lipstick, surrounded by heavy eye-shadow. Red pupils, and black sclera. "I see Puck has found a new bunch of suckers to do his dirty work," she says, in a voice low, and hushed, and dangerous. A whisper that could carry a thousand miles. "As if he hasn't done enough already."


The moment she sees the woman, Sakio lets out a sound like she's been stabbed, eyes wide and fearful. She stands motionless at the top of the stairs, frozen. Almost shaking.

Lena Tarr (Dave) Lena steps in front of Sakio. "Who are you." She holds her bat close.

Blake Leto (Jane 🐈) “Ah, wonderful.” They look at Sakio, eyes narrowing. “Something else you’ve kept from us…?”

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) The woman opens her mouth to respond, then closes it again. She gazes to the side, through those cracks in the metal of the tower walls. Has the breeze picked up? Or had it always been nearly howling, quiet, like the distant sound of snarling wolves. "My father called me his little primrose, once. I would say that's the best of the names he called me." If her tone was calm before, this is anger. Fire boiling beneath every word. "But flowery language doesn't suit this place. Ugly, and garish." She looks back at you, almost through you, like you're made of paper. "You may refer to me as Prim. Or, if you like, you need not refer to me at all." Prim gives the slightest of nods towards Sakio. "Have you washed the red from your hands yet, Rose?" She chuckles, and it's probably the worst sound she's made so far.

Lena Tarr (Dave) "Can we not do this. Here?"

Blake Leto (Jane 🐈) “I’d love if you could give us a cohesive explanation for what you mean, for what you intend to gain from us destroying these creatures. Doing your bidding is quite the loaded term, after all. What are your motivations?” Blake says, ignoring Lena. “And of course, I’m dying to know how you and our dear professor are acquainted.”

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) Prim laughs even harder at that. "Oh, don't misunderstand me. I don't want to stop you from killing that thing." Her eyes almost seem to glow. "I just want to pick you apart. I want to know what makes you so interesting to him. You don't belong here, and I want to understand why you insist on perpetuating this little crusade." She reaches out and traces her hand across a jagged piece of the metal wall. "If I could, I'd unhinge those skulls of yours, run my fingertips across all those pooling thoughts. But that wouldn't do any of us good now, would it?"

Sammy Cabra (Nyanko) Sammy grabs onto Sakio's hand "Sakio?" they whisper. They've decided to completely ignore the scene unfolding before them to check on Sakio.

Ilse Belanger (Ralu) Ilse just stares, back and forth between Prim and Sakio, and pulls a grimace at the last words from Prim

Blake Leto (Jane 🐈) Blake begins to open their mouth to speak, but Sakio’s fear connects in their head and they’re silent. It isn’t worth it to threaten this person just for the sake of their pride, especially if Sakio is this afraid of them. They can’t die here, after all.

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) Sakio squeezes Sammy's hand tight, and draws her rapier. "You're not going to hurt them," and her voice is shaking.

"I'm not going to hurt them," Prim repeats. "Not that you could stop me, Rose."

"Stop calling me that," Sakio replies.

"No," Prim says. And smiles, flashing just the edge of a canine between her lips.

Lena Tarr (Dave) "Ok. We are not doing this." She grabs Sakio's arm. "We are going to kill that thing. We can talk after."

Blake Leto (Jane 🐈) “I would appreciate it if you didn’t kill Sakio, or Rose, or whatever you call her,” Blake says, voice shaking on every syllable, so clearly desperate to sound confident. “She’s quite the frustrating ally, but for the time being she’s what we need to survive against that thing and effectively kill it, as you seem to desire. Doing anything to interfere with that now damns every one of us here to certain death.” For good measure, they step in front of Sakio, knowing full well she’s far better equipped to survive a blow than them. They assume they need to make some showing of intent.

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) Prim seems to size up Blake. "You must be their leader, then. Don't you know that responsibility always travels upward?" She takes a step forward, and Sakio flinches – probably the rest of you do too. That seems to be the reaction she was looking for, as she breaks into a smirk. "You've got quite red hands yourself. But as for the cause...it's all yours, isn't that right? Otherwise, you're stainless." She chuckles to herself. "Why break that streak? Why kill; and more importantly, why kill for Daedalus?" The name is a curse on her lips.

Blake Leto (Jane 🐈) They instinctively take a step back, gritting their teeth, eyes narrowing. “What can you claim to know about me?” Their voice is almost a whisper, full of equal parts fear and anger. “Would you rather I do nothing?” They shake their head. “I don’t understand, anyway. Why try to convince me not to do what you seem to want to?” They tuck their book under one arm, right hand reaching over and gripping their left wrist tightly. “To answer your question. I do intend to take full responsibility for my teammates here. And if you’re intent on interfering, I ask that you…” they flinch, muttering a curse under their breath. “I ask that you go through me first.”

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) "Teammates," she says, echoing the word, rolling it over. The way one might curiously examine an insect before flicking it off their finger. "I'll keep that offer in mind, should it come to it." And her gaze slowly turns to Ilse. "And you, little academic, the one who leaves. Have you ever stopped looking back long enough to consider the path you're on? Where that path might lead you, what sort of person you might become? Cleverness can only carry you so far, you must know that."

Ilse Belanger (Ralu) Ilse reaches for her chest, the point where the scar is. Hesitates, but looks at Blake and Sakio. “You’re too keen on hurting us to give good advice”

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) Prim raises an eyebrow. "I'm not looking to give you advice." Her hair pulses, almost as if shifting in the breeze. Up, standing on end, then back down. "I aim to know what sort of people Puck has placed his faith in. What sort of people he trusts with extermination." Her fingers wriggle idly by her side. "So, tell me. Why are you so special?"

Ilse Belanger (Ralu) Ilse looks at Prim and at the door behind her before answering. “As curios as you are. If we live to find it out, we could tell you”

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) Prim seems almost disappointed, letting out a little breath, tutting her tongue once. "Very well. I'll expect an answer next time we meet; if you survive." Then her eyes flick towards Sammy. "Don't think I've forgotten about you. Not that you're unaccustomed to that sort of treatment. You're used to miming at invisibility, but I see you." She chuckles, and it seems to echo. "Of all here who wear masks, yours is the oldest. You've dug it back up from where it was buried; and I'm interested to know why. I wonder if you even know yourself. Do you even remember why you buried it in the first place?"

Sammy Cabra (Nyanko) Sammy slowly looks at Prim, their expression turns almost sour. Their grip on Sakio's hand doesn't loosen. "I have no idea what you're talking about..." Sammy looks at Sakio again before looking back at Prim. "I have no idea....what you're getting at..." they cover their face with their other sleeve.

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) "Shying away from the truth. What a shame." Again, she seems disappointed. "How can you expect to find what you have lost when you cannot even look?" She takes another step, and there is a flash of light on steel, and Sakio's rapier is inches from Prim's throat. 


"Not. An. Inch." Sakio snarls. Her brand is glowing bright without so much as an invocation, shining into the vestibule, sending dappled light through Prim's hair. A shadow of something dark, and primal, flickers across the far wall. 


But Prim's eyes are still on Sammy. "Well? Do you have an answer for me? If you still wish to play pretend, I won't be the one to shatter your fairy tale."

Sammy Cabra (Nyanko) Sammy lowers their sleeve just a little to look at prim. Their eyes are full of hatred, but only for a second before they remember where they are. They cover their eyes again. "haha...you're so funny..." there's pain in their voice "So so funny...haha...shattering and breaking and digging and digging...I know that already..." they grit their teeth "I know that already..." Sammy lowers their sleeve to look at Sakio, their face has changed from angry to worried again. "Sakio..."

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) The moment she meets Sammy's eyes, the moment she sees that hatred, Prim smiles. She grins. It would look giddy if it wasn't so utterly twisted, almost inhuman, like the corners of her mouth shouldn't quite stretch like they do. It is an affectation, and the one word that comes to mind, beyond disgust and revulsion, is 'triumph.' And then the smile fades, back into that little knowing smirk. Prim finally looks away from Sammy, towards Lena. "And here I expected you to be the one threatening my life." She reaches up and flicks her fingernail against the rapier, Sakio flinching but trying to hold it steady, trying to keep the threat. "Violence keeps you safe, doesn't it? Keeps you warm at night, numbs the pain. It feels right, that others should hurt as you do. But you know what fire does, don't you? It burns. It takes. It consumes. It assimilates what it is, and destroys what it isn't. Fire is a disease. And you, my dear, are diseased as they come. You know that, don't you?"

Lena Tarr (Dave) Lena laughs. She's no longer holding Sakio's arm; holding just her sleeve. Her grip is so tight it can't be comfortable. "Oh, you think you're really doing something don't you? Let's go stab at these poor fucker's brains, right?! As if it's hard? As if it's not the most basic shit ever?" She wipes away a nonexistent tear. "Ah. How lame. How easy. Let us kill the Behemoth, then come back to me. With your fists, not your words."

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) "I'd kill you," Prim says, as if it's the simplest thing in the world. "It wouldn't even be hard. You people are so...fragile. But, don't take my word for it." She smiles, glances at Sakio for an instant. "Why don't you tell them?" A hand up, fingertips on the rapier's blade. And then along it, soft skin along its sharp edge. But it doesn't cut her. Not so much as a trace of red on that blade. "Tell them, Rose, what I'm capable of. You've seen it firsthand." 


"Do you even remember their names?" Sakio asks. Her voice is hoarse, and for the first time since you've met her, it is fearful. 


Prim quirks the corner of her mouth, eyes up, as if she's scouring her mind. "Vladamir," she says, "Amelie, and Roland, wasn't it? Those were the names on their uniforms, at least." And she smiles, sweet and sickly. "Do you remember the name of every Behemoth you've slaughtered?" 


Sakio doesn't have a response for that.

Lena Tarr (Dave) "They have names? Proper names? Can they be reasoned with?" Lena glances between Sakio and Prim, uncertain.

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) "Yes," Sakio says. "No. I mean...names, yes. Reasoned with, no." The last word seems directed at Prim. 


"For once, we agree. Conversing with a raging god is a faster route to malignancy than peace." Prim lowers her hand from the rapier, staring at Lena. "But you would prefer that? You, who drowns the world in monochrome to justify your pain. You would want to, what, befriend a beast as it tears at your neck? Would you apologize for the sour taste in its mouth as it bites down?" She chuckles. "If you wish to be a butcher or a pacifist, why straddle the aisle? Are you really so ashamed of your impulses, your desires?"

Lena Tarr (Dave) "Blah, fucking blah." She looks at Prim, boredom clear on her face. "Fight us or go away. Be our friend or go away. White and black thinking won't get me far, that's true." She readies her bat. "But it'll get me through right now."

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) Her smirk twitches. Like a hint of honest amusement. “Good enough,” she says. Her gaze slowly shifts, over and past, to Camellia. “Oh, and let’s not forget about you, passerine. The odd one out.” She smirks, glancing at her hand as if idly admiring the dirt under her fingernails. “I do wonder what a person like you - a person who takes - could want in a place where lost things fester." Her eyebrow quirks. "Or, was it lost people?" And Prim chuckles. "Whichever. But surely you should have come to know: that which does not belong to you can never replace that which has been taken. Wouldn't you agree?” And those black-red eyes focus on you once more.

Camellia Pavel (Rhela) Camellia sneers and grips their axe tighter. "What would you know?"

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) More than you might think," Prim says, almost a whisper. "But do you really want to play chicken with your own secrets with that?" She hums, like rolling a thought around her mouth. "You don't seem the type to resist the tide. Hardly obedient, but you know the consequences of independence in a world that does not value it. A shame, but nothing more than a typical tragedy in a world full of them." Prim chuckles. "Should I go on, then?"

Camellia Pavel (Rhela) Camellia's soft yet distant gaze was hardened and steely at the woman in front of them, but despite their attempt and appearing threatening, terror seemed to reverb in every quickened breath they took. 

Everyone Else (DaxieVane) Prim's eyes seem to glow. "Silence is hardly a response. If you won't reply–" And she leans forward ever so slightly, and there's distortion between you, like a physical pressure. Prim seems to recoil from it, blinking, caught ever so slightly off guard. She tilts her head, staring at you with something newfound. For a time, she says nothing. "How curious. And here I thought he didn’t pick favorites.” Prim's hair curls up and around itself, undulating in an invisible tide, like she's calling something. And laughs, and her form settles. “Very well. Far be it for me to pluck the buds before they’ve bloomed. Whatever he has planned for you, I’m sure it’s lovely.” Her voice is dripping with venom. "I, for one, can't wait to see it." 

Then, she turns away, and towards Sakio. "I could pick you apart too, Rose. Right here and now. I've barely even started to breach the surface, and you're already sweating. But...I don't need to." Prim makes a sound in the back of her throat, like a gurgling laugh. "Puck knows you're unworthy. And so do I." And with that, she reaches up one hand, and snaps her fingers.

Lena and Blake, you see something ethereal hanging in the air behind Prim. Something dark, obscuring the air like a heat wave, an odd glow to that pitch. You know the texture. You've seen it every single time you've summoned your Persona.


And before you have any time to think about that, there's a blur of motion, and a chunk of the vestibule's wall tears away, the rest of the wall curving towards the opening. As if struck with some impossible force, enough to rip apart sheet metal. The wind hits you all hard, and you cannot keep your eyes open, and when the air pressure settles in the vestibule...


Prim is gone.

[queenburd]

my go self insert fanfiction:

Heaven places an angel on surveillance for aziraphale to put pressure on him. said angel, here named Amil, is an angel working in the Virtue department, sent to do minor miracles in the name of Hope

he keeps trying to lose his tail to see crowley but eventually he and crowley DO end up stuck with the angel and upon introduction, amil freezes up and stares for a second, looking horrified

Aziraphale chalks it up to “he’s a demon” 

but then Crowley gets a private moment with Amil and is like. “so. angel, huh. that’s one heck of a cover”

“ljfdhlkfds hi boss”

bc Amil is actually THE Virtue Hope, one of the heads of the Virtue department, in the Second Sphere, higher than half of the Ethereal beings

And Crowley and Amil recognized each other because Crowley used to be Raphael the Archangel, who was THE head of Virtues before he fell

and Aziraphale is unaware of any of this and Amil keeps almost calling Crowley “boss” just like they did before and its fucking hilarious

[inkabelledesigns]

Introductions to Equinox: Doll Profiles (January 2020)

Equinox is filled with many wonderful dolls. Today I’d like to introduce you to some of my favorites. Apologies for the lower image quality on the sketches, I haven’t been able to get the scanner to work yet, so it’s all photos of my sketchbook from my phone. ^^’’’

Loraine Celeste: Captain of the Royal Guard

Wow, artwork from Inktober AND this past Christmas? Yeah, can you tell I forget to post stuff on here? XD Folks, meet Loraine, who undeniably has gotten the most positive reception besides Auran when I share this stuff in smaller groups. Like Auran, she is a nutcracker, but she didn’t start off that way. Originally she was built to be a dancer for the Swansong Ballet, run by the lovely couple Odette and Siegfried (which is a whole different can of worms). Just a standard wooden doll who was light on her feet. She did her job beautifully, her skill was undeniable, but she wasn’t content. While dancing was all well and good, she found her greatest joys when something went amiss. Several stagehands were rescued by her hand from falling lights and trapdoors, no thanks to a bratty ballerina who kept pushing them in the way of danger. She’s one of the few dolls my story focuses on that actually knew both the king and queen in person. The queen was charmed by her performances. In one case, they had just a moment to talk backstage after one, to which she imparted the most important words Loraine would ever here. “Wherever your heart guides you, that’s the place you ought to be. After all, the role is called “heroine,” sometimes you get saved, sometimes you do the saving.”

A few years after the queen’s death, Loraine finds herself in a doll’s only tavern. On that particular night, a soldier from the guard has come in to watch the merriment with a friend by his side. The two end up conversing throughout the night, laughing and dreaming of what it would be like to live in the other’s shoes. One night turns to two, then three, then a few weeks, and the two hatch a brilliant plan. With the help of the soldier’s friend, they switch their parts and disguise as one another at their jobs. It takes months for them to be caught, but the two end up switched permanently, happier than ever in a place that best suits them both. Lorain climbed her way up the ranks and became the captain of King Hans’ forces, and Equinox is safe and secured thanks to her fine judgment. 

Manny Quinn: The Royal Outfitter

With a name so cheeky, it’s no wonder that Manny has such a sense of humor. The mannequin has seen his fair share of daring moments. For many years he was confined to a shop window, posing the latest trends for passerby's to see. But Manny was more than a model, he was an artist. When there was no more work to be done for the day, Manny would return home and burn the midnight oil as he stitched together the most beautiful threads. Ballgowns, capes, hats, and a large selection of wigs were all in his collection, all made from scraps, odds, and ends that his workplace discarded recklessly. Inspired by the story of Cinderella, he disguised himself one day while off from work to go to the annual market and present his wares for sale. With the interest of an investor, Manny was finally able to sell his designs and make his way forward as the first doll to change the fashion industry. He now works as the royal outfitter, with his business on the side to keep Equinox looking fabulous, with the help of his assistant, Hermy. 

While I won’t get into it too much just yet, Manny is also capable of shapeshifting, thanks to something known as dust magic that we’ll get to in another post. Trust me, it’s gonna be fun when we get to the rules of magic in this world. Most don’t know of his abilities, but it certainly comes in handy for making clothes that fit a variety of body types.

Amil Pastiche: The Peridot Puppet

Marionettes are jolly good fun, and Amil is no exception. There aren’t many toys in Equinox that are built to be so youthful, but his energy is contagious, and the children love his performances. But Amil’s story isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. His father, the puppeteer, was a lonely man, who much like Gepetto who created Pinnochio, wanted a son. He built one in Amil, hoping maybe some far off fae would grant his wish for a human boy, but no such luck was to be had. Amil didn’t care, he was happy just as he was, but his father was not. The poor boy was never good enough, and when the curtains were closed, he was treated horribly, unable to escape and call out for help. Eventually, things got so bad that the little puppet ran away, seeking refuge in the palace, begging for sanctuary. Loraine was the one to graciously let him in on that cold, stormy night, and he was rescued. Through a difficult trial, his father was imprisoned for his abusive actions, and Amil was free. He eventually went to work as a stagehand for the ballet, only to perform again occasionally after all those years of being worn down. 

All three have since become good friends throughout the years. There’s two more for us to talk about in their merry little band, but one must wait, and the other, well, I think you know who it is. For now, though, we rest, until it is time for another story.~ 

Thank you all for tuning in, if this interested you, don’t worry, there’s a heck of a lot more where this came from. The Doll Mender is a story I plan to do great things with, and I hope you’re ready to take the journey with me to turn these past two years�� content into something wonderful! ^^ If you have any questions or want to know more, my inbox is always open. I’d love to hear what you think and if there’s anything specific you’d like to see! ^^

[mythopoeticreality]

The Road Goes Ever On - Chapter 5

Okay, so this chapter took a bit, sorry about that! >.< That said, Curufin’s growing more and more frustrated and still no introductions have happened yet xD 

Ao3 Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/22900423/chapters/56267356

Chapter 5

Golden daylight and the heady mead of wind-stirred grasses carried in from Yavanna’s pastures; the warm musk of his horse, and the low nicker she gave as Curufinwë approached her to begin tacking her for the day’s journey; the velvet softness of her fur as she nosed at him playfully in greeting, and the power he could feel held within her muscles even as she stood still -- he could see it, taste it, feel it still now all so clearly.

His brothers were not far off, preparing to set off, while Atar and Amil were cleaning up from the morning's meal.

“Atto! Atto, let me help!” Tyelpë’s high, piping voice. As he lay the saddle across the horse’s back, Curufinwë cast a glance back over his shoulder, to find his son running up to him, little legs making quick work of the leaf litter and scraggling undergrowth beneath them.

A raised brow and a faintly bemused quirk to his lips. Hadn’t Tyelco taken to watching the boy? His gaze flickered back to meet Finyanís’s, who’s eyes he could now feel resting on his back. His wife had paused in the midst of tacking her own horse and now, with her arms crossed over her chest, just stood there, head tilted back as she looked at him.

It was almost a relief as the rapid pad of the boy’s feet across the forest floor grew closer.

Spinning around, Curufinwë swept down, and scooped a laughing Tyelpë up into his arms.

“Now, where is your uncle?” He murmured.

Tyelpë just shrugged. “By the stream I think. He was showing me how it comes all full of fish this time of year, and I bet him he couldn't name them all, but he told me that he could, so he--”

“Yes, yes, I believe I get the idea…” Curufinwë rolled his eyes. Tyelcormo...

“He is your son…” Finyanís said, shaking her head as she approached. She held out her arms for Tyelpë, and Curufinwë passed him over to her, a smirk flickering across his features despite himself as he bent down to tighten the girth on his horse’s saddle.

“Hello Ammë!” Tyelpë was saying, “I’ve come to help Atto with his horse!”

“Oh, did you now?” Finyanís replied, “Well, I am sure there is nothing your father would like better! Isn’t that so, Curvo?”

Despite himself, Curufinwë could not help the smile tugging at his lips. His son was at that age wherein he wanted to be just like his father, and be involved in everything his father was. Twisting his gaze upward, Curufinwë gave a quick grunt and a nod. It was as he was stepping back and pulling himself to his full height that the peace of the moment was broken.

“There you are, you sneaking fox!” Tyelcormo’s voice cut suddenly through the air beneath the treeline they’d settled under the night before. As if to underline his words, Huan’s rumbling bark came like rolling thunder a moment later.

Curufinwë turned a slow glance backward, to find his brother absolutely sopping, front smeared, from his face downward with mud.

“Gone for a swim Tyelco?” One of the Ambarussa. Beside the one twin, the other snickered. Carnistir was smirking as well, even as he snapped at the two to get back to helping him pack up.

“Ilúvatar in Eä, did you push him in?” Curufinwë found himself murmuring , sliding his eyes back towards his son, now curling up and apparently trying to hide himself away against his mother’s chest. Meanwhile Finyanís seemed to be struggling to hide her own silent laughter.

“He fell.” Tyelpë said, poking his head up, “When he saw that I was going and tried to chase after. ” A pause, “I’m not in trouble am I?”

“Curufinwë!” Tyelcormo’s roar cut off whatever it was Curufinwë meant to say. He turned, canting his head just to the side as his brother approached.

“That son of yours…”

“Yes, what about him, Turko?”

It might have been comedic, the way his brother’s eyes widened as he stared back at Curufinwë. With a wide, exaggerated wave of his arm Tyelcormo put on display the full glory of the disarray he’d fallen into -- clearly enough to answer for all, without further comment.

“Hrmmm.” Curufinwë swept his eyes up and over his brother (and could not help but take note that Huan stood absolutely bone-dry beside him). “Yes. Well, I have told Tyelperinquar to watch his step near the water’s edge. If you cannot help but be a bad example to him…”

“A bad exam- A...are you serious? Can you not see that he-- He tricked--!”

“Turko,” Curufinwë drawled, by now turning from his brother and back to Tyelpë and Finyanís, arms held out for the boy again, “Do you really wish to go on crowing about how a child of less than a decade outsmarted you?” His eyes slid back over his shoulder, and just for a moment a teasing smirk touched at his lips. It was so easy to get a rise out of Turko at times, and perhaps it was rather childish, yet still he couldn’t help but take some amusement from it. It was only his right as younger brother, was it not?

With faint snort he turned his attention back on Finyanís and his son. “Come then,” Curufinwë said, as Tyelpë was handed back over to him and he set him upon his horse, “Today you ride with me, Tyelpë.”

The boy’s face lit up at this and as he glanced about from his perch, looking as though he were on top of the world, his eyes caught Tyelcormo’s expression. He giggled.

“One day…” The silver-haired elf was saying, stepping nearer and slapping an arm (and sodden through sleeve --mud and water were seeping through, clammy and clinging to Curufinwë ’s back ) around Curufinwë’s shoulder, “One day, Curvo, you are going to wake up and find that that boy has grown up to be just like you.”

Hearing those words, of course Tyelpë sat all the taller, his chest puffing out in pride. Curufinwë’s gaze slid up to meet Tyelcormo’s however, and the razor-edged grin there spoke all too well of how much Turko himself would enjoy that moment..

“Well, one can only hope.” was all Curufinwë replied, rolling his shoulders to push Tyelcormo back, before leaning forward and pressing a kiss upon Tyelpë’s brow. Swinging himself up onto the horse behind the boy, he glanced down at his brother.

“If I were you, I would start getting ready to go. Atar will want to be off soon, I feel.”

Tyelcormo rolled his eyes, waving off Curvo’s words, but even so, he turned, loping off towards his own end of camp.

That had been this morning.

They were silver-lined shadows, his father, his brother and himself, now standing reflected in the rippling trails traced by the stranger as he crouched over the lake shore. The air was chill, damp. It smelled of leaf-rot and loam, the waiting silence that hung over the clearing a world away from the birdsong and easy banter that morning had brought.

“What is he doing?” Curufinwë found himself hissing, leaning nearer to his brother, his eyes not once leaving the stranger. His eyes hadn’t left the stranger if he could help it since first landing on him. The night’s darkness seemed almost to swallow the man. The Treelight that burned like a reflected flame in elvish eyes and glowed softly like embers beneath elvish flesh? No, he possessed none of that, the night and it’s shadows almost seeming to swallow this creature. And it seemed to Curufinwë that he almost embraced that fact…

“Do you expect me to know?” Tyelcormo hissed back, “Certainly nothing I have seen before. Tracing some strange pattern over the water...I may look the part, but I am no Teler, brother!”

Curufinwë’s frown only deepened. Why had they come here? They were wasting time, standing over some empty lake shore, while meanwhile Eru knew where his son was! They should have been out there searching!

His eyes slid back towards his father. It was the only reassurance he had, even as the voice at the back of his mind kept hissing at him to return to camp, to grab his horse and go running through these woods to find Tyelpë himself, if he must. Only on Atar’s account did he stand here now. The stranger he may not have trusted as far as Tyelpë could have thrown him, but his father?

His father, he would have followed into Oblivion and back.

So he waited, and he watched, until suddenly, a light broke. Two glimmering lines, crossing one another as the man traced them out. The man made another gesture. And the lake burst from within with a silvery network of light, stretching over it’s dark surface. Like the veins of some living creature or like the spreading cracks over broken glass.

Despite himself Curufinwë’s breath caught and he found himself edging nearer. Atar too seemed unable to help himself, his eyes hungry as he watched on. Somewhere behind himself, Curufinwë was aware of Huan’s low growl and Tyelcormo’s own edginess, but…

As the man made another sign, the patterns of light changed, shifting, looking in one moment like the lines of a map, in another moment like constellations and stars he had never seen, and in the next…

“Writing…” Atar’s voice as he recognized it. No writing that either of them had ever seen or could be expected to know, but…

The Stranger meanwhile kept working, tapping at one of the quarters he’d drawn over the lake’s surface, only for the writing and lines to shift again into something else completely different. And then again, and then again, each moment the image over the lake’s surface appearing more and more a map. He didn’t look up from this once as he worked, only making an offhanded motion behind himself.

And that was when the earth moved. It was as if he had been a flea riding upon a giant’s back, and the giant were now rolling his shoulders. A wave went through the earth, the ground beneath his very feet giving a low groan and suddenly, caught in a wave of motion it was all Curufinwë and his father could do to stumble backwards and stay steady on their own two feet. Atar snapped at the stranger, who murmured something back, apparently unconcerned.

Atar only gritted his teeth, casting a bitter look at the man, but saying no more.

“What? What did he say?” Curufinwë pressed. That too only made him trust the man less, that he couldn’t understand him, and apparently was the only one who couldn’t understand the garble of bird-song and wind-whispers that was the man’s speech.

Atar said nothing, but Tyelcormo snorted, “He asked if Atar works any better himself, with someone breathing down his neck.”

Curufinwë shut his eyes, pressing out a long,low breath through his nose.

Meanwhile the network of constellations and lines grew all the denser, all the more twisting and complex. If Curufinwë did not know better, he might have said that the image were growing into some ghostly forest in itself, a tangle of trees and ivy, of ruins hiding in shadows and hill-sides, all just hovering over the lake like a mist. If he just stepped forward, it could all simply swallow him alive.

And far, far at the other side of the lake (map? forest?) a light glowed, brighter and sharper than all of the rest. Even now it was moving.

Curufinwë’s heart skipped a beat. What else could that light be but his son? It took every ounce of his self-control to stay where he stood as he saw it, to not grab the Stranger by the shoulders and shake him, demanding he tell him where it was that they were looking at.

The Stranger eyed the image before him for a moment. His shoulders tightened, just enough for Curufinwë to notice, before he pushed himself back to his feet again, made a motion with this hand, sweeping the image away, and turned back to meet both Curufinwë and Atar’s eyes.

The man was...slow in his speech, seeming to choose his words carefully. It set Curufinwë’s nerves on edge to hear that tone, to not know what was being said in that moment, but to see the way Atar’s knuckles stood out so tight against his skin.

Huan and Tyelcormo came up behind him, and it was Tyelcormo who took pity enough to translate what was said for him.

“He says that he knows where it is Tyelpë travels now, at the least. His destination however…”

“Tell me Tyelcormo, where is he?”

He could feel the Stranger’s gaze on him. Pittiless, appraising. The same sort of gaze that Curufinwë might have worn himself while choosing a gemstone for a new project. Curufinwë ignored him.

Seeing his brother's expression, Tyelcormo’s own gaze turned inwards, lips pressing into a thin line. It was Atar who spoke.

“We will need to discover the ones who took him to tell us that.”

As if this were some play put on in Tirion, as if this all were some tale Kano were telling around whilst the family were gathered about the Tonfui fire, The braying of a hunting horn broke suddenly over the trees. All three elves stood suddenly straightened, eyes spinning towards the sound.

The Stranger too glanced upward. He stepped forward. Looked almost as though he were waiting.

And that, as the thunder of horse’s hooves grew like the approach of an oncoming storm, Curufinwë liked the least.

[goodtobegeeking]

Worlds Of Exile And Illusion by Ursula le Guin (book review)

Worlds Of Exile And Illusion by Ursula le Guin (book review)

Unlike Amil El-Mahtar in her introduction, I have read ‘The Left Hand Of Darkness’ and ‘The Dispossessed’ and jumped at the opportunity to read the first three Hainish books. This volume ‘Worlds Of Exile And Illusion, contains these three novels by Ursula le Guin of her Hainish stories: ‘Rocannon’s World’, ‘Planet Of Exile’ and ‘City Of Illusions’. I can understand LeGuin thinking elements of…

[sigaramtamiltuition-blog]

Advanced Techniques Involved in Teaching Tamil as a Second Language

Teaching and learning Tamil in the classroom is aimed primarily at language teachers with some experience, and though it could be very useful for teachers to explore on their own, its main use is likely to be as a core textbook on in-service training courses. Throughout, it encourages teachers to reflect on issues in language teaching and learning on the basis of their own experience. Each chapter begins with an “introductory task” which focuses thought on the area to be considered and which in most cases invites teachers to identify aspects of their current ideas and practice on the issue. Similarly, the penultimate section of each chapter is a considerable list of “discussion topics and projects”, many of which are based on examples of teaching materials. If you want to buy Tamil assessment book Singapore, there are lots of options.

These activities are likely to be most profitable when carried out in groups, and the most obvious way in which to exploit them is on a formal training course. In between these discussion tasks, each chapter produces a highly concentrated but still readable exploration of the issues in the topic under consideration. Though the main subheadings in each chapter take the form of questions, such as “How do second language learners acquire vocabulary?” or “What role can self-access facilities play in language learning?”, these are questions which the author sets out to answer; they are not specifically addressed to the reader. The general pattern of each chapter is to move from more theoretical to practical considerations, and Hedge draws on both research and published teaching materials in exploring central issues in language teaching.

The conclusions drawn are often fairly tentative, though; this is not a book which implies that there are clear and straightforward answers to the questions that concern language teachers, or which sets out to provide simplistic classroom “recipes”. After working through the chapters teachers should end up making more informed choices and decisions, but they will still be making the choices–Hedge views teachers as the “decision-makers in managing the classroom process”, and it is not her aim to usurp that role by spelling out some fixed set of classroom practices which she believes to be ideal. As she says in the introduction, her book is not “based on the belief that teachers sit at the feet of educationists and applied linguists waiting for ideas to drop, like crumbs, to sustain them”, since “experienced teachers are more robust and independent than that”.

A teacher recognizes that neither theoretical nor classroom research can provide “a base for strong principles of classroom practice”. Such an approach should appeal to the experienced teacher. If these methodologies were employed, the student will get a clear concept-based knowledge on the structure and semantics of a language. Tamil Primary School Test Papers Singapore is designed with this in mind.   

[thatwritergirlsblog]

OC Introduction (To Wear A Crown) - Yathan Qarvette

Age: 29

Status: High Ruler of the People’s Monarchy of Aldahad

Family: Parents, Cala (Wife), Yohai (Son), Neka (Daughter), Zandi (younger sister), Amile (younger brother)

Sexuality: Heterosexual

Closest relationships (at start of novel): Cala, Saul (friend)

Hobbies: Spending time with his children, Chess, Dancing

Favourite food: Lobster

The current High Ruler, Yathan is faced with the terrible responsibility of running a country descending into chaos. Yet his biggest problem is his youngest sibling, who knows all the secrets to can foil a decade-long plan.

@poetinprose @blackpantherinside @castielwinchestercas @awritingsarah @natalienider @isanyonetoknow @myhoniahakah @savingthecat

[stars-onthe-water]

Family Introductions

@feanors-daughter, and @first-son-of-finwe (Meet the kids gramps)

Fearanya had taken the incentive and gone visiting. Ever since she had awoken to this new land with her mother and twin brother teary eyed by her side she had been like this, restless and exploring, testing her mothers patience and her family’s boundaries.  She had been admonished to stay near home, to stay away from certain family members until the time was right, and she was bored with it, she was bored of hearing how there was no need to warriors, bored with being preached to about how lovely and peaceful this land was.  Just bored.  So she had gone visiting.  she had gone visiting family that she had not yet been introduced to properly.  She had gone to visit her grandfather in his workshop.

The elleth had not been obnoxiously noisy, or disruptive but she had still entered impudently without invitation. Her features strongly resembled Feanaros, but softened ever so slightly in places where his were sharp. Her raven hair had more texture and a body wave to it, faint freckles peppered her nose like gold dust.  Eyes as sharply but far bluer lit upon him only briefly before they turned back to examining the rest of the workshop.  It wasn’t that she meant to be rude, or wasn’t interesting... but he wasn’t as interesting as the things he made.

So, the recently reborn elfling was busy.  Touching and examining everything tool, and item she could reach avidly as though she would remake all of it from feel.  A familiar voice called her from outside, one as young as her own, but she paid no heed until her brother finally followed her in, albeit much more cautiously.

He looked much more of Olwe’s line, with hissilver hair a stark contrast to Fea’s black, it might have had the same texture, but it was hard to tell as he had gathered it up in an unruly bun atop his head.  Or perhaps he took after Miriel, there was sorrow in his eyes and the softer line of his mouth and he was less keen to take in his surroundings.  His gaze too only flickered over Feanaro before turning away but rather than a dismissive action his avoidance seemed contrite and he darted to his twin sisters side.

“Fea!  Stop it those aren’t yours!”  He hissed urgently reaching to sieze her hand before it met something harmful. There was a moment as the elleth struggled then seeing his pleading eyes she conceded.  Side by side, neither twin had any advantage in height, but their frames were subtly different.  Fea was wirey and looked to be stronger, she could have easily pulled away from him, if she had wanted to.  He still had some baby fat, Hi hands around hers softer.

“I know that, I was just looking.”  Fea said with a  sigh. 

“You were just touching you mean!” He retorted.”We were supposed to wait for Amme... he doesn’t know us.”  Calas eyes darted to their infamous grandfather. “I’m sorry sir...”

“Oh you and Amil are worry warts, he doesn’t eat elflings!”  Fea interrupted the apology tossing her hair back and then easily pulling her hand from her brothers grasp to tie it all back in a ponytail.  How little she worried.

“He doesn’t know us, did you even say hello?!”

“Is that all?”  The young elleth turned to look at Feanaro squarely. “Ai, Haru! I’m Fearanya, the silver weenie behind me is Calairon!”  She announced herself.  “This place is really neat!  What are you making?”

Calairon blanched as pale as his hair looking mortified and offended, before his color slowly returned and then kept coming as he blushed, so rude!  How dare!

[heysimplegirl-blog1]

Book Review ( The book entitled Fallen into the Pit)

 Introduction

       Edith Mary Pargeter was born on September 28, 1914 in Horsehay, Shropshire, England. She was also known for her pen name Ellis Peters. She was an England author of different works such as history and historical fiction. And she was honored for her translations of Czech classics. Probably, she was also known for her murder mysteries stories. Her famous literary creation was entitled “The Brother Cadfael Chronicles”. She receives different awards from different associations. She received the Mystery Writers of America’s Edgar Award in 1963 and the Crime Writers Association’s Silver Dagger Award in 1981. She died on October 10, 1995 at the aged of 82 in Madeley, Shropshire, England. 

       The main topic of the novel Fallen into the Pit was all about the Nazi land-worker who was murdered in the small English Village of Comerford. Chad Wedderburn was accused of the murder. But none of his students believes he is guilty. Including Dominic Felse, who discovered the body of the Nazi land-worker in Comerford. Once Dominic has a bestfriend named Pussy Hart. They were playing when Dominic finds the body of Helmut Schauffler. However, Dominic Felse resolves the case to discover the true murderer. 

        The novel was entitled Fallen into the Pit because the main sleuth here, which is the 14-year-old boy named Dominic Felse became interested of the case without knowing that if he will join on investigating the case. It is like he put himself in grave. But behind all those challenges, he didn’t rethink of his decision and he continued to solve the case. Dominic Felse successfully found the true murderer in the novel. Peters expressed very effective mystery through hiding the mysterious identities of the characters. And the best thing was her detective fiction features well-rounded, knowledgeable characters with whom a reader can empathize. 

Characterization 

        Fallen into the Pit is composed of 5 main characters that played an important roles in the series of events in the story. The first character is Sergeant George Felse who is the father of Dominic Felse and a husband of Bunty Felse. He is a well-respected investigator which handled the case of the death of a Nazi land-worker in Comerford. Also a member of the military. In the story, he portrayed as a well-rounded character. 

        Bunty Felse is described in the story as a beautiful woman with a kind heart. She is a loving wife of George Felse and a caring mother to Dominic Felse. And she is good in the kitchen. Dominic Felse is a 14-year-old lad who got curious about his father’s investigation in the murder case. He and his bestfriend Pussy Hart are playing when he found the dead body of Helmut. Later on, he discovered the true identity of the murderer. Putting his life to danger. Helmut is a tall man with a well built body structure. Then a former Nazi land-worker and a ex prisoner of war. He was being murdered. And lastly, Chad Wedderburn is a classic master and a WW II hero. His character is a arrogant and intimidating kind of person. He is also the teacher of Dominic Felse and being accused as the murderer.  

        In the story, Ellis Peters characterized her characters according to their traits that best described them and that could give justification to her story. The author created her characters that could demonstrate the events in the past, like wars and how the people during that time felt and experienced. Ellis Peters wants us to realize through her characters that we should be observant and look the intentions behind. Don’t be easily dragged by your own senses and trust no one except yourself.  

Plot 

        The book Fallen into the Pit contains mystery and suspense that makes the flow of the story more interesting. The author uses her story to get us involved in solving mystery behind her story. Makes us think deeper and get intrigue on what is occuring in the story. You could follow her story by understanding the sequences of the events in the story until you get the answers behind by yourself. 

        The story begin after the WW II in the small village of Comerford. The peace of the small village is shattered by the murder of a former Nazi land-worker and ex prisoner of war, Helmut Schauffler. Sergeant George Felse handled the one of the toughest investigations of his career. Then Schauffler was Nazi to the core and the majority of the villagers had a good reason to despise him. Sergeant Felse’s 14-year-old son, Dominic-who found Schauffler’s dead body-is fascinated by the case. In the story, Chad Wedderburn was accused as the primary suspect. Later on, Dominic find out the identity of the true murderer as he is determined in pursuing clues in Comerford’s isolated countryside. It will unfolds the mystery behind the death of Helmut Schauffler that will reveal a big revelation. That would lead in closing the mysterious case.

        The story will truly capture the minds of the readers and can see the hidden mystery as the characters played their roles with their agendas in the story.

Art and Delivery

        The author Ellis Peters has used deep words that really add flavor to her story. Her writing styles is rich and brilliant. She is a marvelous writer that give deep understanding to her characters and risks our resistance to a post WW II premise. As readers, she lead us into something that we could used our critical thinking. Ellis let us welcomed to her world of mystery through her story Fallen into the Pit. This is good as a way of enhancing our minds to be imaginative and to be keen

         I described the story complicated as it seems that does contain a mystery and has a glimpse of post war. The typography of the story was put into a well-written manner that is readable and artistic. It just used a simple and nice font and also it was arranged accordingly by the flow of the series. Then it appeared in a classic form. While the illustration of the book uses something creepy and cryptic. This heightened the mood of the story. 

        I chose graveyard as a symbol because it contributes a big part in the main point of view of the story then that is also the illustration of the book. As well as the scene where Dominic Felse find out the true murderer that unfolds a something bigger revelation were could twist the whole story. Leading the life of Dominic into danger and possible death. The title Fallen into the PIt is interconnected to graveyard which representing the risky life of Dominic in investigating the case. This is important because it’s compelling us that mystery could preside one’s life to death. Mystery is perhaps insidious and treacherous.

Final Verdict 

        Base on the flow of the story, art and delivery, and characters itself I rate Fallen into the Pit 5 out of 5 stars-a perfect rating for a well written book of Ellis Peters. I must say she is a underrated and unique writer and author. Because she had blended the flavor of mystery and suspense in one book. As a reader, it will let you think critically and got curious about the content of the story. Then you will realized that this book is worth reading for despite of the story’s flaws. 

        This story is quite complicated with full of mystery. We tend to resolve mystery problems by ourselves then we came up into finding the answers. Ellis Peters uses deep words and illustration with hidden. Which it may look hard but this way will enhances our vocabulary with sharp thinking and reading ability. It is a classical story that making the story enthralling. 

       I conclude Fallen into the Pit as overall is awesome yet requires more comprehension. There’s a lot of patience you needed to discover the mystery that Ellis Peters implies. It showcase us that life is like a twist of fate. Because you don’t know what might happen anytime soon when something has revealed upon you. It needed enough courage and bravery.

Introduction( Norjaina Amil)

Characterization( Windle Inson)

Plot( Stifany Napuecas)

Art and Delivery( Steffi Quilang)

Final Verdict( Narcie Colorado)

STEM 1 GRADE 11

[theresawelchy]

Physics & Computation Blog Post Round-up

In the Fall, Boaz and I co-taught a grad seminar on physics and computation (see here for some of the original press coverage). We were lucky to attract an intrepid group of students from multiple fields, with representatives from computer science, physics, math and biology. As part of the course, we asked our students to give presentations and write expository blog posts on a number of topics at the intersection of computation and physics, including algorithms from statistical physics, quantum area laws, and the firewall paradox. The students worked hard to produce posts that make the physics concepts accessible to a computer science audience, and the result is a nice collection of posts that create a “bridge” from CS to physics.

Here, the aim is to give a (long overdue) table of contents for their posts. Followers of the blog may have noticed a landslide of physics & computation posts around December and January; if you weren’t able to keep up with them all at the time, then here they are, rounded up and organized by topic.

Statistical Physics

Background and intro to phase transitions:

Statistical Physics: an introduction in two parts (by Tselil Schramm)

Algorithms from statistical physics: belief propagation and approximate message passing:

Belief Propagation and the Stochastic Block Model (by Thomas Orton)

Introduction to AMP and the Replica Trick (by Preetum Nakkiran and Yueqi Sheng)

Informational and computational phase transitions:

Algorithmic and Information Theoretic Decoding Thresholds for Low density Parity-Check Code (by Jeremy Dohmann, Vanessa Wong, and Venkat Arun)

Proving the existence of phase transitions:

Ising Perceptron under Gaussian Disorder, and k-NAE-SAT (based on a guest lecture by Nike Sun, as scribed by Patrick Guo, Vinh-Kha Le, Shyam Narayanan, and David Stoner)

 Using convex relaxations to approximate partition functions:

Approximating Partition Functions (based on a guest lecture by Andrej Risteski as scribed by Alex Kelser, Alex Lin, Amil Merchant, and Suproteem Sarkar)

Quantum Computation

Background on Quantum Hamiltonians and tensor network representations:

What is Quantum Hamiltonian Complexity? (by Ben Edelman)

Tensor Networks, Matrix Product States and Density Matrix Renormalization Group (by Fred Zhang)

Area laws:

A 1D Area Law for Gapped Local Hamiltonians (by Boriana Gjura and Prayaag Venkat)

Quantum algorithms:

Introduction to Quantum Walks (by Beatrice Nash)

Efficient preparation of thermal states of quantum systems: natural or artificial (based on a guest lecture by Aram Harrow as scribed by Sinho Chewi, William S. Moses, Tasha Schoenstein, Ary Swaminathan)

Quantum Approximate Optimization Algorithm and Applications (by

Amir Karamlou)

Quantum games and quantum PCPs:

Towards Quantum PCP: A Proof of the NLETS Theorem (by Abhijit Mudigonda, Richard Wang, and Lisa Yang)

Quantum Games (by Nilin Abrahamsen, Daniel Alabi, Mitali Bafna, Emil Khabiboulline, and Juspreet Sandhu)

Quantum supremacy:

Quantum circuits and their role in demonstrating quantum supremacy (by Hikari Sorensen)

Quantum error correction:

Peter Shor on Quantum Error Correction (based on a guest lecture by Peter Shor as scribed by Annie Wei)

Black Holes and the Firewall Paradox

(See also Boaz’s introductory post)

Background on black holes and the Firewall Paradox:

Why physicists care about the Firewall Paradox (by Noah Miller)

Black hole paradoxes: A conservative yet radical journey (by Abhishek Anand and Noah Miller)

Firewall Paradox meets Computational Complexity:

Black Holes, a complexity theory perspective (by Chi-Ning Chou and Parth Mehta)

Windows On Theory published first on Windows On Theory

[thatwritergirlsblog]

OC Introduction (To Wear A Crown) -  Lady Zandi Qarvette

Age: 19

Status: Representative of the Qarvette line

Family: Parents, Yathan (eldest brother), Amile (elder brother)

Sexuality: Asexual

Hobbies: Reading, Playing piano

Favourite food: Vegetarian stir-fry

The Representative of the current Ruling Family, Zandi has all eyes on her during the Election. However, when she is given another important position, she decides that it’s time to break her silence and betray those who will least expect her treason.

@poetinprose @tamaravonb @castielwinchestercas @awritingsarah @natalienider @isanyonetoknow @myhoniahakah @savingthecat @queenie-dragon