#especially in terms of facial features and expressions

[vianeptvne]

the planet that holds rulership over the 1H/ASC can be referred to as the chart ruler, the planet that has the most significant impact on how the native is perceived by others, their physical appearance/vitality, and their approach to life. i recommend looking into the planet, the sign it's in, and the aspects it's making to the rest of your chart, as this will provide more context into how the energy will manifest in your life. to find your chart ruler, identify your rising sign, the planet that traditionally rules it, and where in your chart that planet falls.

─ aries/scorpio ascendants are ruled by mars, taurus/libra ascendants are ruled by venus, gemini/virgo ascendants are ruled by mercury, cancer ascendants are ruled by the moon, leo ascendants are ruled by the sun, sagittarius/pisces ascendants are ruled by jupiter, and capricorn/aquarius ascendants are ruled by saturn.

🪩˚✧ ₊˚ʚ ─ RULER OF THE 1H IN THE 1H

when the chart ruler resides in the 1H, matters of the self are ignited and extremely prevalent. the native is being called to develop their identity and self awareness in this lifetime. this also indicates that the ways in which these individuals go about expressing themselves will be very prominent. their independence can be of great importance to them, and they could struggle in situations where they feel like their individuality is being impeded upon. they prefer to lead and not follow, which can work to their advantage in terms of being pioneers and inspiring others, but may also cause strife in terms of their relationship to authoritative figures in their lives.

if the planet holding rulership here is a benefic like venus or jupiter, assuming that neither of them are afflicted and aspect the rest of the chart more so positively than negatively, this energy will work to the native's advantage. they tend to be very charismatic and wise, (energetically) attractive and magnetic, and very charitable and giving by nature, all qualities that tend to make them fit for leadership positions. in terms of physicality, venusian/jupiterian influence over the 1H can indicate a stronger/weaker vitality of the lower back/hips, liver, kidneys, and pancreas. appearance-wise, these native's could be on the curvier/fuller side, and have round, soft facial features.

on the other hand, if a malefic like mars or saturn is the planetary ruler, there may be an evident learning curve in regard to self-expression and the relationship to the body. natives with these placements may encounter far more conflict in their interactions with others than the average person, as they typically have a very stoic, domineering, authoritative, and potentially aggressive energy about them that can rub other people the wrong way (especially if these people are fellow martians or saturnians themselves).

they may rely too heavily on their "brutal honesty", and have to work towards developing the social awareness and empathy needed to maintain functional relationships. regardless, the hardships they encounter in life (typically in youth) tend to work as the fuel that ignites the resilient and persevering qualities within these natives that people do admire about them. in terms of physicality, martian/saturnian influence over the 1H can indicate a stronger/weaker vitality of the head (headaches/migraines could be prominent), the cardiovascular system, adrenal glands, pelvis, skin, teeth, tendons/ligaments, and bones.

🪩˚✧ ₊˚ʚ ─ RULER OF THE 1H IN THE 2H

when the chart ruler resides in the 2H, matters of one's personal material possessions are of the utmost importance. these natives may find that they are being called to not only find and maintain a sense of physical security for themselves, specifically in terms of their income and home, but explore what it is that they assign worth to and why. these natives may have been conditioned from youth to view their self-worth as synonymous with how much money they have, the quality of the clothes they wear/food they eat, how nice their home/car is, etc.

it's also a possibility that these natives may use their identity or physical body as a means to make money (e.g. socialites/models, athletes, etc.). this is especially true if the sun is the planetary ruler here, as these natives can utilize their personalities and their bodies as a "resource". this can further amplify the instinct to take pride in their wealth, and while this isn't inherently negative, these natives may need to be mindful as to not become overly superficial or egotistical in the ways that they assign worth to material possessions. in terms of physicality, the sun's influence over the 1H can indicate a stronger/weaker vitality of the heart, spine, and upper back.

if the moon is the planetary ruler, it can be a very intense experience, as the moon is representative of our sense of security, both mentally and physically. therefore, if the moon is aspected positively in the natal chart, and there aren't any malefic planets present in the 1H or 2H, this can manifest positively in the sense that the native is less likely to run into any turbulence in terms of finding and maintaining stability in their domestic lives. whereas if the moon is afflicted and/or malefics are present in either the 1H or 2H, the native may encounter more hardships and feel insecure about their money/living situation.

these experiences may have been more prevalent in their youth, and it's possible that the mother/maternal figure had a significant impact on the native's relationship to money and material possessions. this can also indicate that their emotions play a significant role in what it is that they do to make money, they could work in the medical field, with children, in the food industry, real estate, etc. in terms of physicality, the moon's influence over the 1H can indicate a stronger/weaker vitality of the chest/breasts and stomach.

🪩˚✧ ₊˚ʚ ─ RULER OF THE 1H IN THE 3H

when the chart ruler resides in the 3H, matters of the native's immediate environment play a significant role in shaping their identity. early academic experiences, siblings (or any close relatives), and their neighbors could have a strong impact on the their sense of self. they may find strength in having a community that they feel they can rely on. this can also indicate recurring aspects of the native's routine could be formative and integral to their character (e.g. the podcasts/music they listen to, the park they take their dog to, the library or cafe they study at, the books they read, etc.). this could also indicate great communication/writing skills, these natives may be very talkative by nature, and could enjoy discussing their academic interests.

if a benefic planet holds rulership here, the energy of this house tends to manifest in a productive way, assuming that the planet in question isn't afflicted. for example, if venus is the planetary ruler, the native can express themselves in a way that is very persuasive and charismatic. they could be skilled networkers and find ease in maintaining harmonious connections with people within their community, this may indicate meeting potential partners through their community as well. this could also manifest as the native having multiple siblings. these natives may also have an affinity for the arts, and excel in creative fields, especially related to singing or writing.

on the other hand, if a malefic planet holds rulership here, the native could encounter more strife related to matters of the 3H. for example, if saturn is the planetary ruler, they may encounter limitations within their immediate environments, as well as conflict between themselves and their siblings or neighbors. these natives could struggle with anxiety when communicating with others, which may stem from difficulties in early education, as they may have processed information or communicated in a way that was different to the students around them. they tend to communicate in a very "matter-of-fact" way, and tend to come off very authoritative, whether they intend to or not. despite their hardships, the restriction and delays they face serve to teach them the value in this area of their lives. these natives typically grow to become skilled thinkers and communicators.

🪩˚✧ ₊˚ʚ ─ RULER OF THE 1H IN THE 4H

with the chart ruler in the 4H, matters related to one's domestic life will have a significant impact on the native's character. those with this placement might also have the chart ruler conjunct the IC and therefore opposite the MC, which may indicate strife between the private/public life. generally speaking, while we are all conditioned in some way shape or form by our upbringings, i would argue there's a choice in how much of it we carry into adulthood. for those that have their chart ruler in the 4H, they may find it difficult to separating the ways in which they were raised to think and behave from their actual identities. they can be very private in nature, and family, lineage, and ancestry tend to play a large role in how these native's view themselves, for better or for worse.

if a benefic planet like jupiter were to hold rulership here, this would be indicative of one's domestic life having a positive impact upon the native, assuming that jupiter isn't afflicted in the natal chart. these natives may come from a very big (potentially well off) family that act as a positive influence and support system for them. they could've travelled a lot as children, lived abroad, or were introduced to and learned about cultures that were different from their own. their heritage can be of great importance to them and their family. they could also have very prolific ancestors, and may be able to trace their lineage back for generations. ultimately, their families could've shaped them to approach life from a very charitable perspective. these natives may be very open-minded, and express themselves in a way that others find to be very receptive and warm.

whereas if the ruling planet is a malefic like mars, it could indicate a tumultuous upbringing. home life for these natives could've been very chaotic growing up, they may have received "tough love" from their families more often than nourishment. it could've felt as though their parents were "coaching" them more than they were actually raising them, which could lead these natives growing up to be very strong and assertive in adulthood. it could manifest in the opposite way, though, where it could've felt like their families broke them down rather than built them up, and they could struggle with a defeatist attitude as a result.

while these natives usually have to work on any potential impulsive, self-destructive behaviors. they will benefit most when they use their emotions as fuel to go after what it is they want out of life. they have the stamina to work through any obstacles they may encounter, alongside the drive and determination to achieve their goals. they typically have leadership qualities about them that others tend to value, and can be very independent and self-assured by nature.

🪩˚✧ ₊˚ʚ ─ RULER OF THE 1H IN THE 5H

with the chart ruler in the 5H, matters related to creativity and romance tend to be very significant in the native's life. personally, i consider the house of "good fortune" to be one of the best places to have your chart ruler. these natives tend to have little to no difficulty in expressing themselves, and usually find ease in showcasing their talents and originality. their charismatic, imaginative nature is something that those around them tend to pick up on quickly, and they could find that it's a characteristic that others find attractive as well. this placement can also indicate that romance and love play a significant role in shaping the identity of the native as well. children could also be a formative factor for some with this placement, but the 5H signification of children could also simply refer to the act of bringing life to one's imaginative ideas.

when mercury is the planetary ruler here, these natives are able to utilize their mental agility to express their artistic side. they can be extremely engaging storytellers, and they tend to have a very captivating energy that draws people towards them. as a result, they can excel in creative fields related to writing or the performing arts. they would also bode well in professions related to teaching or academia. they may have the ability to convince those around them of quite literally anything, and they could have a tendency to overpromise or even manipulate others, especially if mercury is afflicted here.

they may also have to work on their ability to focus, as their minds can be very fast-paced. they may nurture children (whether it be their own or others) by building their intellectual confidence, and instilling in them the importance of their artistic talents. they may also be attracted to people who stimulate them mentally, they could enjoy partners who they can converse with for hours on end and never run out of things to talk about. in terms of physicality, mercury's influence over the 1H can indicate a stronger/weaker vitality of the nervous system and lungs.

if the planetary ruler here is the moon, there's typically a passionate, emotional attachment to one's creative endeavors. they may be able to express themselves creatively in a way that allows them to connect with others in a very intimate, sentimental way. as a result, they can be viewed as very empathetic people by nature. their family, upbringing, and/or mother/maternal figure may have played a significant role in shaping how they express themselves and navigate their artistic side.

they can be very protective of this side of themselves, and may fluctuate between wanting to get their creations into their world and being more reserved or timid in displaying their creations to others. this protective nature can also extend to children (whether it be their own or others), as they seek to nurture children and ensure that they feel safe and secure in their presence. they can also be very romantic by nature, and their partners can be very formative to their identities, therefore it's important that the relationships they maintain are healthy and keep them feeling safe and emotionally stable above all else.

🪩˚✧ ₊˚ʚ ─ RULER OF THE 1H IN THE 6H

with the chart ruler in the 6H, matters related to work, daily routine, and wellness can play a significant role in shaping the native's identity and approach to life. natives with this placement more often than not will find themselves in positions where they are of service to others. the vitality and overall health of the native (or of those around them) can also be a prominent theme in their life. animals may also play a large role in their lives, whether that be their own pets, service animals, animals that they train/care for, etc. the native's job can also have a significant impact on their approach to life, and i say "job" as in the customer-service jobs that people take to keep the lights on and pay off debt, not necessarily the career that the 10H signifies.

if the planetary ruler here is the sun, the native is typically going to show up in this area of their life with a very confident, determined attitude. these natives will usually derive a sense of pride from their work, no matter how minuscule it may seem on the surface. they also tend to care deeply about their health, and may prioritize having a healthy lifestyle not only to maintain their physical vitality, but to upkeep their physical appearance as well.

they may find purpose in caring for others as well, but it's important that they ensure that they have an identity separate of that, so that they're not constantly putting other peoples' needs before their own, especially if the sun is afflicted in the native's chart. others typically view them as being very charming, jovial, and charitable people. they may be the type of friend that others feel they can depend on in times of need, which is why it's important for them to have balanced "give and take" relationships with those around them.

if the planetary ruler here is saturn, the native tends to be very disciplined when it comes to their work and wellbeing. in youth, they may have struggled in this area of their lives, and may have encountered issues related to their health, or encountered conflict in their place of work. despite how prominent these issues may have been, it essentially shapes them to be very responsible when it comes to how they take care of their bodies, as well as how they approach their work and the people that they work with.

others may look to them for guidance, as those with this placement tend to do well in positions of authority. others tend to view them as being very reliable and strategic, but they may need to ensure that they're not overextending themselves for others or "pouring from an empty cup" so to speak. similar to having the sun as the planetary ruler here, these natives need to prioritize boundaries, and maintain balance in terms of how much of themselves they are giving to others.

🪩˚✧ ₊˚ʚ ─ RULER OF THE 1H IN THE 7H

when the chart ruler resides in the 7H, relationships and close connections will play a very formative role in the appearance, behavior, and lives of these natives. while the 7H does represent romantic relationships, people tend to confine the signification of the 7H solely to romance. when in reality, the 7H is more so representative of contractual relationships and the committed, intimate bond that is formed through them (e.g. marriage or business partnerships/relationships). having the chart ruler here can indicate that the native is characterized by how they relate to others, and the connections they form with those around them. these natives may have a tendency to "mirror" the mannerisms and nature of the people they have close relationships with.

if the planet that holds rulership is a benefic like venus, this can generally manifest in a productive way. these natives tend to be very charming and energetically attractive, characteristics that typically earn them a good reputation amongst others. their approach to life can be influenced by a need for comfort and stability. maintaining harmony and balance is of utmost importance to them, especially in their close relationships. it's important that they maintain healthy connections with others, as this is a placement that could prefer to "keep the peace" rather than be honest about their feelings as a means to avoid turbulence or conflict between themselves and their loved ones. these natives also tend to be artistically gifted, as they have the ability to see the beauty in all things and have a keen eye for aesthetics, therefore, they may do well when collaborating creatively with others.

on the other hand, if the planet that holds rulership is a malefic like mars, the ways in which the native connects with others tends to be on the rougher, more "abrasive" side. these natives may enjoy relationships with people they feel can take what they dish out in a sense. with the productive manifestation of this placement, the native will find healthy ways to express their martian energy in their relationships through healthy competition and debates. on the flip side, if mars is afflicted in the natal chart, there can be a tendency for domineering or argumentative behavior within one's relationships. depending on the full context of the chart, this can be a placement that can provide a level of passion and perseverance that can work in the native's favor, especially in regards to any business endeavors.

🪩˚✧ ₊˚ʚ ─ RULER OF THE 1H IN THE 8H

when the chart ruler resides in the 8H, matters related to shared resources, death, and transformative experiences will be prevalent and shape the native's approach to life. these natives may encounter loss more frequently than the average person, and find themselves going through cycles of rebirth multiple times throughout their lives. things such as debt, taxes, inheritance, or any material things that they share with others can play a significant role in shaping their identities and how they navigate life. they could find that they need space to themselves to heal or "regenerate" in a sense, and could have a tendency to self-isolate for periods of time. due to this, others may view them as reserved or potentially hard to read.

if the planetary ruler here is the sun, this would amplify the impact that the 8H has over the native's identity. it's possible that the father (or any relevant paternal figure) played a significant role in shaping the native's identity and their approach to life, for better or for worse, and they could potentially gain or lose money due to their father. they may have experienced crisis that led to prevalent insecurities in their self-expression. due to this, they can be very private in nature, and potentially struggle to feel understood by those around them. despite this, the hardship they've experienced tends to shape them into extremely adept healers. they understand life on a more complex level than most, and therefore are able to empathize with those who have experienced great adversity in life. they may find that through expressing themselves, they're able to aid others navigate their own personal struggles.

if the planetary ruler here is the moon, there tends to be a significant impact on the native's emotions and domestic life. contrary to the sun in the 8H, the mother (or any relevant maternal figure) will play a significant role in shaping the native's identity and approach to life, for better or for worse, and they could gain or lose money due to their mother. these natives can be very emotionally reserved, and find it difficult to express their feelings, potentially due to strife they may have faced in their youth. despite this, they tend to understand the human psyche extremely well, and are able to read others with ease. they may experience turbulence in their home lives, especially regarding financial stability. as a result, it's important that these natives build a home for themselves where they feel safe and secure. they can also be extremely artistic, and find ease in expressing their emotions through a creative outlet.

🪩˚✧ ₊˚ʚ ─ RULER OF THE 1H IN THE 9H

when the chart ruler resides in the 9H, expansion through spirituality and/or higher learning will be extremely formative to the native's identity. these natives are typically characterized by their sense of wanderlust, and have an insatiable hunger for knowledge. they could have very restless spirits, and as a result, travel frequently or seek to live abroad. their ideals and personal philosophies are of great importance to them, they could come across as "preachy" at times, but ultimately, they're just genuinely impassioned about the things that they believe in. they could be academics, and benefit from having mentors who not only teach them, but play a role in shaping their identities. this could manifest the opposite way as well, where they grow and evolve to a point where they can mentor and teach others.

if the planet that holds rulership here is a benefic planet like jupiter, the native is usually characterized by their optimistic nature. others tend to percieve them as jovial, uplifting people to be around, and they could have an affinity for the finer things in life. they may be very dedicated to the spiritual or religious practices that they follow, and utilize these beliefs as means to guide them through life. while these natives tend to hold their principles near and dear to their heart, they're not averse to learning about other people's viewpoints, as they tend to be very open-minded and receptive to new ideas and others' perspectives. if jupiter is afflicted here, though, it could manifest as a tendency to overindulge in vices, and overestimate one's abilities and therefore underdeliver at times.

if the planet that holds rulership is a malefic like saturn, the native may have had experiences in their youth that culminated in them feeling constricted in their beliefs and self-expression. they may have grown up in a religious household that shaped the way that they approach their relationship to the "divine" and spirituality. school and the process of learning could've been strenuous, and it may not have been until they were older that they were able to pursue a higher education and rectify their feelings surrounding academia. with time and maturity, these natives can experience growth through exploring the ideologies that are unfamiliar to them, rather than rejecting them out of fear.

🪩˚✧ ₊˚ʚ ─ RULER OF THE 1H IN THE 10H

when the chart ruler resides in the 10H, the native's identity is deeply influenced by their profession and public perception. for these natives, their self-worth tends to be intrinsically linked to their professional lives, for better or for worse. they're typically characterized by others as someone with a very strong work ethic, and therefore can find themselves called into positions of leadership. the native's reputation also tends to be a very prevalent theme in their lives. there could be an inherent need to find balance between one's obligation to stay true to themselves and the responsibility that their career entails. the relationship to one's parents (or any relevant authority figures) shapes the way that these natives feel about and approach their careers.

if the planetary ruler here is venus, these natives tend to be very easygoing in nature, and therefore tend to be regarded highly by both their peers and superiors in their professional lives. they can utilize their talents to work through any hardships they encounter in their career in creative ways. they typically have a very compassionate nature that their peers appreciate, and this characteristic can benefit them in terms of supervising or managing their subordinates. if venus is afflicted here, there is the potential for this to manifest as an avoidance of conflict. therefore, it's important that these natives to recognize that both their benevolent and authoritative sides can (and must) coexist so that they can be the best leader that they can be.

on the flip side, if the planetary ruler here is mars, these natives tend to be very confident and forthright in their approach to their professions. they can be extremely motivating people to work with due to their ambitious and driven nature, and therefore excel in positions of leadership. they're usually very energized and passionate about their work, and can have a tendency to be competitive. while this isn't inherently negative, this can be a placement that can instill a sense of "intimidation" in others. if mars is afflicted here, the native could struggle with being too brash with their peers, or encounter power struggles with authority figures, and could develop a reputation for being "difficult" to work with at times. these natives usually must work towards recognizing the importance in being able to work in a team, and don't prioritize their independence over professionalism.

🪩˚✧ ₊˚ʚ ─ RULER OF THE 1H IN THE 11H

with the chart ruler in the 11H, the native is characterized by their personal aspirations and goals, as well as the company that they keep. their approach to life is usually shaped by the connection that they have to others, whether that be their friend group, colleagues, or an organization or club that they're a part of. this can also indicate that the ways in which they're received by others plays a formative role in native's self-perception. these natives are can be very fortunate and gain a great fortune through the bonds that they form with those around them. this doesn't necessarily indicate material gain (although it can manifest that way), but it can also indicate gaining knowledge through others or gaining opportunities through networking.

if the planetary ruler here is the sun, the native will identify heavily with matters of the 11H. the native may have gained some form of fortune or knowledge through the father (or any relevant paternal figure), and the native's relationship to him may have played a significant role in shaping their aspirations. these natives can be very "magnetic" in nature, and find that they attract others towards them with ease. although, this doesn't necessarily mean that they will have a myriad of friendships or have the capacity to maintain these connections. on the contrary, it may be difficult for these natives to find people that they truly relate to. these natives usually seek to attain connections with like-minded people, and excel in friendships where there are common, shared goals between themselves and the other person. they tend to find their purpose through the causes that they dedicate themselves to, and may find themselves in positions of leadership among groups and organizations.

if the planetary ruler here is the moon, the way that the native navigates their identity and their approach to life will be shaped by the emotional connections that they form in group dynamics, as well as their emotional connection that they have to their goals. these goals could be related to the native's domestic/family life, or the domestic/family life of others. these natives are usually defined by their charismatic and empathetic nature. the native may have gained some form of fortune or knowledge through the mother (or any relevant maternal figure), and the native's relationship to her may have played a significant role in shaping their aspirations. these natives may have to work towards developing and maintain boundaries in the connections that they have with others, as they can struggle with identifying too heavily with the person that others view them as, versus the person that they actually are.

🪩˚✧ ₊˚ʚ ─ RULER OF THE 1H IN THE 12H

with the chart ruler in the 12H, matters of the subconscious will play a significant role in how the native navigates their life and identity. having the chart ruler in the house of endings and spirituality and can lead the native to feel as though they're "in between worlds" in a sense. they could struggle with feeling misunderstood more often than not, as they tend to have an air about them that others perceive as evasive. they find more comfort in the imaginative world they create for themselves. they benefit when they find ways to bring life to their visions, and are often gifted enough to manifest these things into reality. these natives would benefit from implementing spiritual practices into their lives, and finding ways to ground themselves to maintain balance between their need for introspection and isolation, and practicality and rationale.

if the planetary ruler here is jupiter, the native may seek spiritual knowledge and growth. these natives tend to luck out even when they encounter loss, as this placement can indicate spiritual or divine "protection" in a sense. those around them typically characterize them as very giving, charitable individuals. they may have to work towards not being overly self-sacrificial, and learn to implement and maintain boundaries with others. these natives may also need to be cautious of drugs and alcohol, as this placement could also potentially manifest as addictions. ultimately, these natives are typically able to utilize their intuitive and creative talents to heal both themselves and others, and are typically figures that others look to for guidance and wisdom.

if the planetary ruler here is saturn, the native tends to prioritize growth and self-discipline. despite saturn being a malefic, it rejoices in the 12H due to it's desire to retreat, introspect, and develop. this doesn't necessarily mean that this placement is "easy", as saturn in the 12H can also influence feelings of self doubt. for these natives, they're essentially being called to recognize the ways in which they sabotage themselves, and to dismantle the fears and restrictions that they place upon themselves. with time and maturity, it becomes easier for these natives to navigate these hardships. they grow to develop a strong sense of self-awareness, and through doing so are able to hold space for others, but most importantly, they're able to sympathize with themselves.

dividers by aquazero

[8housevenus]

astrology & appearance part 1

ARIES: appears fiery, fierce, and confident. aries placements have strong brow-eye region, usually high-set eyebrows, has a pulled look to their facial structure. you can't help but notice their passionate eyes and their assured demeanor. "bad-boy/bad-girl" vibe. as aries is traditionally ruling mars, there's a lot of boldness to their character. experimental styles, especially with their hair or even tattoos on their face, piercings, anything to make them stand out in a fashionable way. they appreciate accessories and design a lot, usually loves wearing hats- beanies, caps, etc, or wild hairstyles. aries typically has soft smiles with prominent dimples.

examples:

TAURUS: appears calm, grounded, and sensual. taurus placements are gifted by being traditionally venus ruled. this gives them a symmetrical and harmonious face. their elegance is remarkable through their soft and earthy style, as well as their easygoing personalities. usually stays loyal to their style, or has some sort of signature fashion sense about them. their open eyes and softly round lips stand out about them. has immense model-esque vibes to them. usually has lightly-toned hair and very toned & pretty bodies. taurus placements have prominent cheekbones that they love to either contour or blush a lot. they carry themselves gracefully and are the pure embodiment of keeping it cute and classy.

examples:

GEMINI: expressive, suggestive, and witty. gemini placements usually have full faces, all their features are pulled to the front more. very charismatic and has full lips, prominent teeth, and really embody the "girl/boy you meet on vacation". i notice their mouth region draws lots of attention. has lighter hair (in color and in texture), usually very long. toned and tan skin. fashionably extremely creative, loves designer and variety of colors. has a happy resting face and looks full of life. loves wearing necklaces, chains, rings, bracelets, anything as forms of expression to their character. these people are a statement. as gemini is traditionally ruled by mercury, expect them to switch it up and still look better than before. they can do levels.

examples:

CANCER: delicate, kind-hearted, appears gentle. cancer placements usually have moon-faces, ethereal and inflects emotion upon those around them. bambi-like doe eyes, soft dimples, softly arched eyebrows, and sort of "pouty" lips. "moonkissed", has features that are plumper, loves to go for soft-color palettes and has very glowy/smooth skin. "fluttershy" like energy, very admirable demeanor and loves wearing their hair up, cancer being traditionally ruled by the moon, this makes cancer placements a lot more feminine and really resemble their mothers when they get older. usually they have a prominent chest area. loves to wear clothes that outline their bodies and features, always making their eye area stand out, and they look like human fairies.

examples:

LEO: bold, luminous, exotic. leo appears to have very full-set eyes, lips, and smaller foreheads. their eyes hold royalty, and their demeanor is very rich in pride. impeccable sense of self and reeks of confidence and self-love. prominent hairstyles and lengths, usually has very big hair, lioness. they look expensive and their sense of style is remarkable and trendsetting. these people have others take notes on their style and looks. demands attention and very straight noses with prominent tips. "it boy/girl," knows how to maximize themselves to their full potential, very fearless appearance and appears to have lots of physical strength.

examples:

VIRGO: inquisitive, refined, polished. virgos have neutral skin, sharply arched eyebrows, more prominent foreheads, and buttoned noses that are nicely spaced. eyes are always curious and observing and usually slightly fartherly spaced. very simplistic in terms of style, loves comfortable clothing and never has to do too much to be the moment. "clean girl/boy," virgos are ruled by mercury, they have very strong expressions on their face. typically has a slim build and tends to transform themselves very fast. mechanical-humans in the best way possible. readable and reasonable. they have a relaxed beauty about them that is very minimal and quiet. great jaw structure and facial harmony, and their smiles are very teethy and cute. effortlessly impressive.

examples:

thank you for reading, i will make a part 2 doing libra-pisces some time soon! <3

[pow-pow1111]

Sevika Fluff Alphabet

A-Z fluff headcanons with Sevika

Pairing: Sevika x reader

Tags: Established relationship

Affection (How affectionate are they? How do they show affection?)

Sevika is not used to affection, so she would express hers subtly at first. As your relationship progresses, she will become more direct and outward in her affection. She's more than willing to give you any you need, she wants to please you and make you feel loved.

Body (What is their favorite physical feature of yours?)

She focuses on you as a whole, and loves every single part of you. If she really had to choose, she appreciates your facial features. She thinks your eyes are perfect, she loves your lips, she adores your face and how it feels when she caresses your skin.

Cuddling (How do they like to cuddle?)

Cuddling with you is her favorite thing to do after a long day. Sevika really enjoys close physical contact. She will give you romantic massages, and she loves to hold your hands. She'll kiss your neck as she snuggles you and she'll tell you how much you mean to her.

Dates (What are dates like with them?)

Her ideal date would be something like getting a drink and playing a game of cards. She would maybe even let you win sometimes... The two of you could go on occasional walks, or have a special dinner together. She loves going on dates regularly, whenever they can happen. A perfect date night would end in lots of cuddling and intimacy.

Equal (Are they the more dominant one in the relationship, or more passive?)

Sevika definitely is more dominant by nature, but this doesn’t mean she doesn’t respect you. She sees you as equals in your relationship.

Family (Do they want one?)

The idea of a family together is something Sevika might open up to, especially if it's something you want. She's perfectly content as things are, just the two of you.

Gifts (How do they feel about giving/receiving gifts?)

She is not really a gift-giver. Sevika is definitely not used to receiving gifts so if you gave her something, she would be really awkward and flustered. She would treasure any gift forever, and if you give her small little trinkets, she’ll carry them with her all the time. It makes her think of you while she’s at work.

Hugs (What are their hugs like?)

She gives you hugs from behind, she'll wrap her arms around you and hold your body firmly against hers. She hugs you like she never wants to let go.

Insecurity (Is there anything they are insecure about in your relationship?)

Sevika is very secure in the relationship. She trusts you completely. There is nothing at all that she's insecure about.

Jokes (Are they more serious or playful?)

Sevika is very witty and charming. Because she’s usually more serious, her jokes would really catch you off guard and make you smile. In public she’ll lean in and whisper something clever to you that she came up with, and it’s adorable how smug and proud of her jokes she looks.

Kisses (What are their kisses like?)

Her kisses are firm and intense. She loves passionate making out as well as brief, small kisses on your hand or on your cheek.

Love Language (What makes them feel loved?)

She expresses her love through acts of service and physical touch.

Marriage (Do they want to get married? How do they feel about it?)

Sevika is indifferent to the idea of marriage. You are the love of her life, and she is perfectly happy being partners without an official marital label. If marriage is important to you and is something you want to pursue, she would absolutely consider it.

Nightmare (What is their greatest fear in terms of your relationship?)

Her biggest fear is not being able to protect you, she’s terrified of you getting hurt. As a result, she's very overprotective and can be a bit possessive. She'll always keep you safe.

Obvious (How transparent are they when it comes to their feelings?)

This woman is obsessed with you and does not hide it. She's an extremely passionate lover. Though she is reserved and stoic by nature, she makes it perfectly clear how she feels about you.

Pet Names (What terms of endearment do they use for you? Nicknames?)

Sevika always thought pet names were stupid and mushy... until you became lovers. She uses romantic terms of endearment for you:

“My love”

“Doll”

“Darling”

“Sweetheart”

“My girl/my boy/my lover”

Quality Time (How do they spend time with you?)

Sevika is a busy woman so you best believe she makes the most of any time you have together. On quieter nights, you’ll lay your head in her lap as she smokes a cigar and plays with your hair. It means so much to her when she can relax with you, you take away all her stresses.

Romance (How romantic are they?)

Sevika is oh-so-romantic. She���ll get you flowers just because. Always holds the door for you. Kisses every inch of your body and tells you how much you mean to her, how you’re her everything. Makes you dinner, your favorite meal.

Secret (What is something they wouldn’t want others to know?)

She’s very embarrassed by the fact that she's so soft for you- of course she’s not embarrassed of your relationship at all, it’s just she’s kind of in shock at how vulnerable she is with you. You're the only one that’s ever made her this way.

Teasing (Are they a big tease?)

She loves making you flustered. She’ll hit on you a lot. She’ll get really close to you, her arms crossed as she stares down at you smugly. She knows exactly what she's doing when she grabs you by the waist and pulls you against her body to give you kisses on your forehead. Often she’ll scoop you up and carry you bridal-style because she finds it amusing.

Understanding (How understanding are they of your needs and feelings?)

She’s your biggest supporter and she cares about your feelings more than anything. Sevika is really good with communication, and she will always listen whenever you need somebody to talk to. She’s very understanding of any emotional needs you have, and she’ll always do her best to help you through anything.

Value (How important are you and the relationship to them?)

You mean everything to her, she will always put you first and prioritize your relationship. You're so important to her.

Weird (What is their quirk?)

Sevika has a huge soft spot for animals, and they just absolutely love her. She can make friends with almost any animal. In the streets of Zaun they’ll just approach her for pets.

Xtra (Random headcanon)

You two wear matching pajamas to bed. For sure. It was her idea, too.

Yearning (How would they handle missing you?)

When you’re apart, she misses you a lot more than she would admit. She keeps a photo of the two of you with her everywhere she goes. That helps her for short times apart, like when she’s working. If you’re not together for a long period of time, she usually holds some of your clothing because it smells like you, and she’ll imagine you’re there cuddling her.

Zzz (What are they like to sleep with?)

She’s definitely the big spoon. She loves to sleep with her arms around your waist, your body pressed against hers. It makes her feel very secure to know you’re close to her and safe. She’ll murmur sweet nothings as she runs her fingers through your hair, and she’ll wait for you to fall asleep before she lets herself drift off.

[ego-osbourne]

I have tried to make a nice introduction to this post many times and keep fumbling it so I’m just going to jump right into it.

There’s a few posts/reblogs going around discussing the—for lack of a better term—racially charged designs of elves in the Oblivion Remaster. You can find the post here—op expressed that they didn’t want to continue the conversation on their blog, and I’ll try to respect that as much as possible, but I wanted to contribute to the argument because I feel like a lot of people are missing the point.

To summarize, an anon pointed out to op that NPCs like Mankar Camoran and Mannimarco look like racist Asian stereotypes, the kind you’d find in WWII propaganda (extremely slanted eyes, talking in a way that emphasizes their top row of teeth, etc.). The counterargument by op was that they did not agree with the assessment, saying OBRE’s Altmer were not much different from the Altmer of Morrowind, Skyrim, and ESO. In a reblog, op added that many of OBRE’s character artists came from various Asian backgrounds. In a final reblog, op added that TES’s elves have always been based off of potentially offensive stereotypes of Asians (with exaggerated facial features and hastily-woven inspirations from various Asian cultures), but since the studio behind OBRE probably didn’t intend to offend anyone, it shouldn’t be of much concern.

This is where I find the most concern.

The biggest thing I want to address is the argument of intent. Many people claiming that the OBRE Altmer aren’t racially charged will say that the developers did not intend for these designs to be offensive, and intent should be a serious contributing factor when judging these designs. I agree! I do not think that the devs at Virtuos and Bethesda ever intended to be offensive with their designs. That does not mean that they still weren’t offensive designs though, and the devs not realizing that their designs could be seen as offensive is half of the problem.

Think of the artists and animators over at Disney and Warner Bros in the 1950s when they were making what we can clearly see in hindsight as racist cartoons. Whether it be the indigenous people of Peter Pan, the siamese cats of Lady and the Tramp, the black characters of Tom & Jerry, or the crows of Dumbo, each of these depictions likely weren’t seen as offensive by the artists creating them. If anything, these characters were probably seen as “accurate” for who they represented.

This same idea of “not stereotypical, just accurate” followed the attitude of minstrel shows. Many white people performing these shows would claim imitation as flattery—they weren’t making stereotypes, they were just living out the “Black experience,” and it couldn’t be offensive if it was “enjoyable” and “accurate.” The point is, something doesn’t need to be seen as offensive by its creators to still be obviously offensive, even when its creators are part of the demographic that is being the most affected. Minstrel shows were also performed by African Americans, and at least one of the crows of Dumbo was voiced by a black man (with the other voice actors being uncredited aside from one white voice actor). This phenomenon has been argued to be a blend of desensitization to offensive depictions (they’re “funny/accurate,” so what’s the harm in participating?) and as a way to appease those with more power (the white man) so that you’re seen as “one of the good ones” and can avoid being targeted in the future.

That^ is to say that the many Asian developers at Virtuos don’t discount the fact that these OBRE Altmer designs are still very uncomfortable to other POC people, especially those of Asian background. You can be “on the team,” so-to-say, and still do something that offends and disgusts “your team.” I’m very certain that the people over at Virtuos did not intend to make something that resembled a racist caricature out of elves, but intent starts to matter less and less when you are a big company that, purposefully or not, is reinforcing an ugly, exaggerated stereotype and desensitizing both white fans and POC fans to the point that they (the fans) will not only refuse to criticize designs like this, but actively fight against people who point out the harm these designs cause.

No matter your racial background, if you can stomach these designs and enjoy OBRE or TES as a whole, if you can treat this series as a form of escapism and have the privilege to live apolitically through it, that’s awesome. Escapism is a very healthy and valid way to process the events of the real world, and if you are able to experience that, great. That’s not what matters though.

Not everyone gets to live apolitically. It’s important not to disregard or discredit those who point out real issues in any media, no matter how you view it. You might see TES as nothing more than the Funny Elf Game, but there are many very valid people within the community who recognize the very biased hand of the author and cannot enjoy it to the same extent that you do. I found it baffling that so many people were so quick to disregard the arument responding to op as a “violent, non-intellectual group hounding a concept art blog” (paraphrased from many different responses, though all these words were used)—the use of “violent” and lacking “intellectual integrity” has been the common kneejerk response to POC concerns for decades on decades to discredit and devalue genuine critiques, thus shielding the offending party from having to think twice about something that makes them uncomfortable (I don’t think you intended to touch on an offensive and racially charged practice still used to this day, I just think you have been desensitized to that particular reaction so much you have failed to recognize how it can affect other minority groups, even if you yourself are part of a minority group (/ironic); the use of “hounding” is also a bit… silly? Much smaller blogs cannot “hound” a bigger blog, and it is the responsibility of op to understand that they are prone to considerable backlash just by virtue of being a bigger blog—there is no such thing as “punching down” on or “hounding” a bigger creator than yourself, especially not when the conversation remained as on-topic as it did; additionally, op is not just a “concept art” blog, if they were they wouldn’t have engaged in this conversation in the first place. They did not have to answer the ask.

To finish off, I want to make it clear that I am white. I have been a fan of TES since I was a kid, and did not recognize any racially/marginally charged aspects of the game on my own, because, obviously, none of those aspects have ever affected me. I am making this argument on the grounds that all of these things were pointed out to me by POC friends within the community (especially my Asian friends, in this regard), and I find it important that anyone from any background is able to validate the concerns of the marginalized.

This is my main argument, but I’m going to go into a few extra details in a reblog. If you’re interested in a very in-depth post from an Asian POC regarding this, @bforblitz has a project in the works.

[blackpensils]

Unnamed Werewolf!Danny AU snippet

I don't know if I'll ever finish this and it's been sitting collecting dust in my writing drafts for a while now. It's a medieval AU with monsters and supernatural creatures where Danny's parents are monster hunters, Sam is a rich noble who dresses like a pesent to be friends with Danny and Tucker, and Danny got killed by some unnamed creature and then woke up some time later in his grave, as one of those creatures. I had a whole story planned out but I never really got around to writing much about it. So thought I'd share a snippet of what I got at least. They're still fourteen, btw. It was supposed to be like a series of multiple stories.

Snippet of the story under the cut:

~~~

Now that he was more docile, Sam got a better look at him as a whole. Saw the way his shape was not quite as animalistic as she'd first observed in the woods. The curve of his back was very wolf like but the shape, size and structure of his torso was very reminiscent of a human's. His legs, despite the elongated feet with heavy paws at the ends, were still very much the same as any man's but with the heels never quite touching the floor, giving him an uncanny look as he padded across the room. His tail swished behind him, thick with fur and definitely going to be a hell to deal with in terms of shedding. Then there were his arms and the very obvious human hands attached to them. Despite the white fur and massive claws, as well as the black paw pads, they were undeniably human hands with fingers that gripped. They were maybe even a bit too long to be quite human, now that she looked at them more closely.

All in all, Danny still retained some very human features despite the black skin, black and white fur or the long claws. Even the tail didn't take away from the fact that his frame was just too human adjacent to belong to an animals. But then there was his face. Or where his face was supposed to be.

At first when Sam had seen him, she'd believed he was wearing some kind of mask. Something shaped like an animal skull to scare her or to give fright to anyone who saw it. Especially since his bottom jaw was furry and very much made of flesh. But that was wrong. The mask Danny wore wasn't a mask at all. Now she was very much sure that it was in fact his skull. She hadn't gotten a good enough look around the edges where the fur began and where the bone took over, but Sam could swear that from what she could see, the skull seemed to be growing out of his flesh.

It was…. disturbing. In a fascinating kind of way, but still very much disturbing.

Sam scratched her arm as she watched him walk around the open space of the barn, bent on all four and sniffing the ground. She couldn't tell his facial expression. Unsure if he even had any like this, with his face made up out of bone. She didn't really know what to do or what to say. How to handle the situation before her even though she'd been so sure about herself when she'd told him to follow her.

Now he was here and she had no idea how to actually help him. With all of her occult knowledge, Sam couldn't even say for sure what kind of creature Danny was supposed to be.

She'd at first thought he was a werewolf. He'd been killed in a viscous animal attack, after all. The signs were there. Partially eaten organs, torso torn to shreds and long claw marks cleaving his skin in two leaving him a bloodied mess of a corpse.

But werewolves didn't pass the curse by killing their victims. In fact, it hadn't even been a full moon when Danny had died. That had been on the night his grave had been burst open. Which kind of spoke to him being one, but Sam had never heard of a werewolf who could transform outside of the rise of the full moon. Not to mention that if a werewolf was loose in Amity, it would've made headlines right away. Danny would not have been the only victim. Yet, as far as she was aware, he'd been the only casualty. Not to mention, werewolves were more animal than they were men.

Danny had too many human features. Too much in his frame, in the shape of legs and the way he still had proper hands, despite the fact they were probably three times the size of his regular size.

And he was far too lucid. Too much in control of himself to be a werewolf. Because Sam would not have been able to get through to him if he'd been a proper moonwalker. Plus, it was still light outside. Werewolves only changed once a month, and they were rarely ever aware of their own transformation.

Danny turned his large animal skull in her direction, the green lights in the black eye sockets flickering as if he was blinking at her. He tilted his head before he slowly made his way over to her. Well, slow-ish. He was pretty tall and his legs were long, making him only need about five steps to actually reach her side.

There was a sound in the back of his throat that was very dog like. Very reminiscent of a whimper or whine, like a dog begging for pets.

He nuzzled forward with his bony snout but stopped himself. He seemed to contemplate what to do because he sat back on his legs and reached a hand up as if he was going to touch her. He halted when his hand was level with her face, instead spreading it out and flexing his fingers as if he was seeing them for the first time.

When he met her eyes, there was a look in those green lights that were just so sad that Sam took a step forward. She grabbed Danny's outstretched hand in her own before wrapping her arm around his neck as best she could. Sitting back like this he was still so much taller than her.

"It's okay," she whispered, trying to sound as reassuring as she could. "It's all going to be okay. I promise we're going to find a way to turn you back. I've got the books."

When she pulled back she pointed at the room she and Danny had left the stacks of occult literature and scripture in just a couple of days earlier.

The night he died, she reminded herself and her hand fell to her side. It felt so long ago now. The two of them and Tucker with heavy leather bound books in their arms, pushing through the doors to the barn, laughing and joking as Sam led Danny to where he could drop off his stack. It was probably still on the table where he'd left it, beginning to collect dust.

Sam hadn't been able to come back up here after she'd gotten the news. It hadn't felt possible to come here knowing that Danny would no longer be able to sneak up here with her. No more would he come with baked goods from his mom while they went over the occult that Sam loved so much. Danny was much less interested in the topics, but having hunters for parents he held a conversation better than anyone else she'd ever broached about the topic. Which, to be fair was limited to Tucker and her grandma, and while she loved the old lady with all her heart, Ida Manson wasn't as sharp as she'd once been.

There had been many late nights where Sam and Danny had bundled up in the old barn at the back of the Manson property, large tome in hand and reading through ancient texts about creatures from cultures and continents neither of them had heard of before. Tucker would usually be there as well, but at that point he would be slumbering in a corner somewhere.

That was fine. Tucker never believed on the same level as Danny did, and while Danny himself was skeptical at times, he was far more open minded to the concept of the occult than Tucker was.

But those memories had made it impossible to walk up the path to the barn that would usually fill her with joy. Her personal place of escape where her parents rules and expectations wouldn't have to get in the way of her interests. Where she didn't need to be Samantha Manson, daughter of a noble and sole female heir to her family's fortune, thus doomed to marry a fellow noble in order to live up to the family name. In that run down shack, she could just be Sam. Sam who liked to read and write, who didn't like to eat meat and Sam who liked the strange, unusual and twisted occult a little too much for society's standards. The Sam that befriended Danny and in turn Tucker. A Sam who didn't have expectations outside of her own.

In a way, a part of her had died with Danny that day. The part of her that still saw something good about this world. The part of her that still looked forward till tomorrow because maybe things would be better by then.

Maybe because, somewhere deep inside, she still blamed herself for what had happened. If she had just convinced Danny to stay that night, to not walk home in the dark where creatures hid, maybe he would've been alive today. He would still be himself and not this… creature that she couldn't name. If only she had convinced him to sneak into one of the spare rooms then maybe…

Danny bumped her cheek with the tip of what was probably meant to be his snout. It was cold and hard against her skin. She could feel a draft coming from the nose holes in the skull. The way he tilted his head and the low whine in his throat gave away his worry. For a second, she thought she'd heard him speak below the whimper but she shook the ridiculous thought away.

"Let's start by going through some books. There must be something on what you are in there. Somewhere," Sam said in regards to the makeshift library she'd built. She met Danny's eyes and took a deep breath before giving a stern nod, more to herself than to Danny. "We should also send for Tucker. He'll be able to at least help categorize." She gave Danny a one over before saying, "And he'll probably think you look amazing."

Danny gave a huff at that but it had an amused undertone to it that made Sam smile. She gave him a scratch behind one of his very wolf-esque ears. It made him tilt into the touch and release an almost purring kind of sound from deep down in his chest. His tail wagged back and forth just like that of a happy dogs.

[calicofurball3]

Heyy I hope you're doing good!! 🥰💗

I saw your post about the free reading and I wanted to participate so, here's my sidereal chart and the nakshatras

I hope I cause you no trouble 💕

Hey there, I’m good, hope you’re doing good as well !🌷🍰 It’s no trouble at all and tysm for participating, here’s your reading!

(Do note that asteroids, Pluto, Uranus and Neptune aren’t considered in sidereal astrology, so I wouldn’t be considering those aspects!)

Cancer ascendant gives you a more softer, rounder facial features, such as big doe eyes. You may also be on the curvier side as well since the ascendant is in the sign of Pushya. You could give off a more mature, nurturing, motherly vibe.

People may even mistake you’re age often. Saturn conjunct the 1st house may tend to make you quite critical when it comes to ur own appearance. You may feel like you lack something or could be quite harsh on urself at times. If not this, it’s also possible that you may have faced body shaming or hurtful remarks on ur appearance. Just know that ur beautiful eitherways and don’t pay heed to them if this has ever happened😊💗

2nd lord sun in 9th suggest that you may have invested a lot in ur education. Wealth could be built through travel, education and spirituality. Sun in Pisces suggest that ur quite a creative and spiritual person. It’s likely that you love to explore different religious beliefs and culture  as well. 

With this placement, its possible that your father is a very religious person. You may be quite curious regarding taboo topics like death, reincarnation of the soul, life after death and so on. 

With sun conjunct Rahu, you may have a clear vision as to what you’re purpose in life is. You love travel and exploring different cultures. You may dream of traveling to different places often. 

Ketu in Virgo could make you quite smart. You may not be a big fan of routines in ur life. It’s very much possible that you have felt like your thoughts and opinions go unheard whenever you try to put them out there. Communication could be something daunting to you, since you may have had bad experiences relating to that aspect. You could be a single child too. 

This is a great placement for someone who’s into writing, especially formal writings like research papers. You could be someone who’s a perfectionist, it’s hard for you to be completely satisfied despite the amount of hard work you’ve put into something. 

Since Ketu is in the hasta nakshatra, you could be quite good at skills that involve using ur hand a lot, such and writing, cooking, drawing, painting, sewing etc.

3rd lord mercury in 8th suggest that ur thoughts are hidden or concealed.  Since it’s in the sign of Aquarius, it’s also possible that you’ve had unconventional ideas those were termed as ‘weird’ that you’ve restricted yourself from expressing them out often. You keep secrets pretty well. 

This might be an odd observation but you could have a wide vocal range and do voice modulations pretty well. Mercury in purva badrapada nakshatra signifies that you have a talent to dig deep and analyze things. You could do well mathematical, IT, data science, data analytics related fields. Um you may also have a tendency to lowkey stalk ppl online and could be quite good at it as well with this placement😭 (not in a bad way ofc- u just get curious)

Mercury being the 12th house lord placed in the 8th could very well give you a disorganized sleeping pattern. You could be someone who loves to binge sleep. You may also frequently have thoughts that keep you awake at night, making u restless and anxious. You may have experienced prophetic dreams or paranormal activities. 

4th house lord Venus in the 8th house suggests that you could’ve experienced a lot of transformative incidents at home. It’s also possible that your family could have a lot of wealth, especially from mom’s side that may get passed onto u as inheritance. It’s possible that you’re family may be the kind that doesn’t really plan but live in the moment perhaps? Like one fine day your mom or dad mightve been like ‘yep let’s go to Maldives today!’ sorta thing😭

With Venus also being the 11th house lord in 8th, you may have experienced lots of ups and downs in ur friendships. It’s possible that you’ve had hurtful experiences with them, or had a lot of broken friendships that may have scarred you. Mars in the 11th house could also strongly suggest this, since mars also rules over aggression, fights and conflicts. 

Venus in the sign of danishta could make you a creative person. You may also be good at signing, or play an instrument perhaps. If not, you may dream to do the same. You might’ve wanted to be social media famous at some point in ur life as well.

5th lord mars in the 11th house indicate that you could have a lot of creative hobbies/talents and you also put a lot of efforts into improving them. You may have tried expressing any of these talents online as well. I also strongly feel that you may be into dancing or cooking with mars being in the sign of Taurus. You’re quite passionate individual as well when it comes to these hobbies.

Mars also being the 10th house lord suggest that you may have tried making a career out of these talents. It’s also possible that ur quite interested in sports and physical activities, especially group ones such as football, basketball, group dance or so.

 You could also earn quite well from ur career. Financial stability and material comfort is something that motivates you to work harder in ur career. 

You may also love exploring stuff online that lets you learn something or the other. For example you could’ve learnt skills like cooking, baking or such from online. Mars in the nakshatra of mrigshira could make you an adventurous and active person. You may love celebrations or gatherings with your friends too.

6th house lord Jupiter in 4th suggest that it’s possible that you or your family perhaps, could’ve experienced some sort of legal dispute in life (and won them as well). You or ur family may also have experienced ailments related to digestion, gastrointestinal issues, respiratory or the abdomen, if any.

Since it’s Jupiter placed in the 4th house, you could have a huge family, or perhaps have lived with ur joint family? It’s also possible that you could’ve had learnt a lot from your parents, especially relating to spirituality, religion and so. You could’ve grown up in a religious home as well. You may have a family business with Jupiter being in the nakshatra of Vishaka.

7th lord Saturn in the 1st house could mean that ur FS may be someone who’s mature and takes care of you. It’s also possible that they could have a similar personality or appearance to you. They could be a commited person who strongly values tradition and be a family oriented person. 

They MAY be somebody who restricts their emotions a lot tho. They could also love doing charity and donations to the poor and needy. With Capricorn in 7th, you could be someone who prefers a committed stable relationship over casual flings. You also are quite particular about choosing ur partner and may put a looot of thought and consideration into it.  

Since Saturn is also the 8th house lord here, there’s a chance that when people meet you for the first time, they may misunderstand you a lot. They could’ve had preconceived notions about you or it’s also possible that you give off a mysterious, secretive vibe to them. You may also be someone who’s faced a lot of adversities, but you definitly don’t show that you’ve been through a lot. It’s also possible that you’ve transformed your appearance a lot or have had glow ups. 

With 1st lord in the 10th house, ur identity could be tied to ur work or career. You are also somebody who cares a lot about the reputation you put forth in front of others and do your best to maintain it. 

Moon in the sign of Aries gives you a childish enthusiasm and vitality. It makes you quite adventurous and passionate about your career as well. Moon in the nakshatra of bharani, if you’re a woman, could mean that you give off babygurl vibes🎀💗(like imagine pink girly girl aesthetic)

This nakshatra also deals with sexuality, death and birth, so it’s also possible that people may find you hot or worst cases, you could’ve been sexualized often. 

Although it’s also possible that you could get riled up pretty easily, but you don’t seem to hold grudges for long. There are chances that people MIGHT see u as a hothead sometimes. You could also be a fast paced and competitive person. It’s also possible that your field of career involves lot of competition or requires you to be quite quick. Perhaps it’s a fast paced industry?

Since mars is the lord of  10th and placed in 11th as well, it’s possible that others or ur friends infact, may have seen you as a competition. 

Thats about it! I hope you found it useful💗🌸

Feel free to leave a feedback and let me know how accurate the reading was!

[chronicangel]

Two-of-A-Kind Genius

Link to this fic on AO3. Words: 2919 Date posted: May 6, 2025 Summary:

Dirk and Jade do a science project together. Featuring carbon steel, sweat, and shitty movies.

There are many people Dirk doesn’t know how to talk to. Dave’s friends are… most of them, actually. He doesn’t know where the kid (as if they’re not the same age) got his ability to make friends from, but he’s sure that it wasn’t him.

Unfortunately, Hal has only managed to become a bigger pain in his ass since he got prototyped with the weird muscular troll, so Dirk doesn’t have much of a choice.

“So… remind me what we’re doing here again?” Jade says, sitting perfectly still even though Dirk didn’t tell her to do that. Facial expressions are not the most natural thing in the world to him, having grown up in isolation without any need for them or anything, but he cringes anyway. At least she can’t see him through the headgear she’s got on right now.

“Uh. Basically, my sprite demanded an equal intellectual partner with several specifications for who could fit the bill, and you’re kind of the only person who did. Fit the bill, I mean. So we’re scanning your brain to create a virtual copy of your mind so you don’t have to put up with his ass, and probably so I can make some modifications that make this feel a little more ethical.”

“No, yeah, I got all of that!” Jade says without missing a beat, and Dirk raises his eyebrows. “I mean what are you doing with this machine? I don’t recognize this setup.”

Dirk stares. He’s heard that Jade is sort of a one-of-a-kind genius before (the same way that he is, Roxy says, but he hates it when she says that)—that’s why she’s even here—but they’ve never really talked, so he didn’t really know what to expect. Jade asking him about the whole brain-scanning process? He didn’t really expect that.

“Uh, it’s kind of complicated to explain.”

He can’t see Jade’s face, but he’s pretty sure from her tone that she’s rolling her eyes. “Well duh it’s complicated. The human brain has an average of 86 billion neurons, I don’t think there was ever going to be a machine that could make an even kind of close copy that wasn’t going to be complicated to explain! But we’re gonna be here for a while, right? So give me the rundown! You’ll get a better scan if the ol’ gears are turning, anyway.”

So that’s the first conversation Dirk has with Jade.

Really, he didn’t expect her to be very involved in the process past that point. Granted, she has no good reason to trust him with a scan of her brain other than that Jake vouched for him (Dirk is kind of shocked Jake vouched for him), but it also doesn’t seem like she’s getting involved because she doesn’t trust him.

It seems like she’s getting involved because she thinks she can help.

“You have to make a body for her, right?” Jade asks after just kind of showing up at his apartment one day. He’s actually pretty used to that—everyone seems to just kind of show up at his apartment whenever they want to. Maybe it’s normal. He obviously has no idea.

“Have to is sort of a strong term. Technically, his specifications didn’t include a clause about giving her a body. I just know that he’s going to throw a temper tantrum if I don’t give her a body, and I don’t really want to deal with his shenanigans.”

Jade laughs, and Dirk stares at her. He’s heard that she grew up in isolation the same way that Jake did—the same way that he and Roxy did. But she doesn’t seem to have reacted to it the way that Jake did, and especially not the way that he and Roxy did.

“That sounds a lot like have to to me!” she eventually says. “Anyway, I just thought I might be able to provide a few pointers on the design and power core and stuff. I actually used to have a robot version of myself that Grandpa made for me. I was really little when he made it, but I had to do maintenance sometimes, so I’m pretty familiar with a lot of the internal workings!”

Dirk doesn’t really want any pointers on the design or power core. He’s made tons of robots, and he’s pretty comfortable with his process. And in a neurotic way, he doesn’t like the idea of ceding any control over the project to another person, even if it’s only creative control.

But there are also about a half dozen people who will line up around the block to kick his ass if they think he was mean to Jade, and he has no idea how sensitive she is. He could take most of those people in a fight, but he doesn’t really want to.

“Okay,” he says instead.

A couple of hours later, Jade is sitting cross-legged on the floor of his bedroom with a sketchbook in her lap while Dirk perches on his desk chair like an anime character to peer curiously at her work. “The best place to store the battery would most likely be the chest. It shouldn’t require too much maintenance, but on the off-chance that it does need an upgrade or something, or, y’know, if sprites live longer than the half-life of uranium, which is technically possible, then it’s easier to access it through a bigger hatch. Plus, the abdomen is one of the places in the human body that emits the most heat, so it’d kind of be a more accurate simulation of a human that way, if he’s into that sort of thing.”

Dirk snorts, startling himself a little bit. “He’s half-AI and half-troll, so I don’t really know what kind of freaky shit he’s into. Uranium emits a lot of alpha and gamma radiation. How are we going to block it?”

“It’s only a little gamma radiation,” Jade says, and Dirk doesn’t know whether she’s joking or not, but it startles another laugh out of him. “Anyway, do we really need to worry about sprite cancer or anything? A steel body should work fine.”

“I wouldn’t discount the possibility of sprite cancer,” Dirk says, shrugging. Jade laughs, and it feels like a victory. Okay, he kind of gets why everyone likes her so much. She’s kind of like a fusion of all three of his best friends, which should actually be a nightmare, but. She’s nice.

When he was building his robots back on his post-apocalyptic Earth, it took months to effectively scavenge all of the materials. As it turns out, uranium wasn’t exactly in ready supply, and while his brother left him a lot, Dirk guesses he didn’t have any of that just laying around. He’s planning a timeline here of at least six months for this project, which means that Hal (and Equius, he guesses) is probably only going to be a bigger pain in his ass, but that’s just the way it shakes out.

Jade just kind of shows up again a week later in full protective lab gear with all of the materials they need, and he raises his eyebrows at her again. “I’m pretty sure the customary courtesy is to warn a gentleman before you bring radioactive materials to his apartment,” he says.

Jade laughs. “Sorry! I figured it had been long enough you were probably getting impatient. I was sort of busy helping Jake with Skaianet stuff and got distracted for a while. They’re trying to implement a space program and he wanted my input on stuff since I’m the Space lady, and I tried telling him that that didn’t technically give me any more cosmological awareness than anybody else, but you know how he gets.” She shrugs and brushes past him, and at this point, he’s used to her and her entire family saying insane shit like it’s normal that he doesn’t raise his eyebrows.

“Right,” he says. “Well, I suppose I can forgive you, since you’ve acquired what appears to be a ludicrous amount of uranium and… carbon steel? Hey, I thought we agreed on normal steel.”

She rolls her eyes. “Carbon steel is basically the same as normal steel, just better in, like, every single way!”

“We can not start a debate about metals again, we’ll be here all night.”

“We’ll be here all night anyway! I can use my Space powers to shrink things down and size them up again, but things get kind of wonky when I try to do anything too much more complicated than that with shape and mass and stuff. We’re gonna have to shape and weld all these pieces the traditional way.”

Dirk, honestly, has missed shaping and welding metal the traditional way. He doesn’t have god tier powers that allow him to make robots more efficiently or family ties to what will inevitably be the largest scientific corporation their planet has seen, but he’s also a busy guy, so he hasn’t had the time. Also, he’s been in sort of a funk, but he doesn’t want to think about that.

“Can we put on music?” Jade asks eventually, raising her voice to be heard over the reciprocating saw. She’s holding her hands over her dog ears, but her human ears are uncovered.

Dirk usually does play music when he’s working, but he doesn’t get the impression that Jade would like his music very much. “Yeah, you can put on whatever you want!”

It turns out she listens to exactly the same music that he does—pieces of music she shouldn’t even have access to because his brother made those for him. Right?

He turns off his saw to run a hand through his sweaty hair. “Uh. Good mix.”

Jade uncovers her dog ears and then tilts her head at him remarkably like a puppy in a commercial watching some guy stumble through a series of increasingly ridiculous mishaps. “Thanks! Dave would probably be embarrassed if he knew I still had this stuff, so it’s gonna have to be our secret.”

Right. Dave is her version of his brother. They would make similar music. He and Dave have talked before about the fact that Dirk is kind of like an alternate timeline version of his brother, but Dirk has largely tried to avoid the inverse conversation. He doesn’t have the same sort of emotional attachment to his dead brother that Dave did, so it kind of feels like an unfair conversation. “I’m told I keep secrets very well,” he says, with a tinge of amusement. Technically, he’s been told he’s cagey, but he’s pretty sure those things have some overlap.

“Haha! Yeah, I’ve heard that about you,” she says, somewhere between amused and teasing, and his eyebrows go up.

“I have a reputation?”

Based on the way Jade winces, Dirk is pretty sure he knows where this conversation is going. “Uh. Sorry. That was a mean joke.”

Dirk shrugs, trying to seem unbothered. He is unbothered, mostly. “It’s fine. I’m not him, so I don’t think I’m required to take offense on his behalf or anything. Sounds like that guy sucked.”

“He was the worst!” she agrees, bobbing her head in a rapid nod. She visibly hesitates for a moment, and then she adds, “Well, I never really knew him. But I think I knew more about him than anybody else did.”

“Even more than Dave did?” he says, mostly trying to joke to make this conversation feel a little less awkward.

“Hmm… Yeah, I think so!” He can’t help his surprise at that, and he guesses she must be able to see it, even though he doesn’t actively try to emote it. “I used to have these dreams on Prospit… I knew all kinds of stuff that I didn’t have any reason to know. Plus, I think he had some kind of ties to Grandpa, but I was never able to figure all of that stuff out.”

Dirk snorts. “Maybe they had an awkward, mostly one-sided relationship as teenagers that nearly resulted in the dissolution of an entire friend circle.”

“Maybe!” she agrees, although she doesn’t actually sound very convinced of the matter. “I think it was mostly Skaianet stuff, though. I know Rose’s mom was connected to all of that stuff, too.”

Right. The other Roxy. Dirk hasn’t heard very much about her, mostly on account of the fact that he still hasn’t figured out how he’s supposed to talk to Rose, and prying about her dead mother doesn’t seem like the right place to start.

He’s getting the vibe that this conversation is going to take a while, so he starts peeling off his protective gear. He’s never been great with the heat. Apparently, post-apocalyptic submersed Texas wasn’t as hot as normal Texas, based on what Dave says about it anyway.

“Oh, I’m sorry!” Jade says, bright green eyes going wide and dog ears pressing down against her head with… guilt, he thinks? He’s never seen a dog other than her, half or otherwise, so he doesn’t really know how to read their body language, but he thinks he’s starting to pick up some of the basic signals.

“You have now apologized to me for things I didn’t complain about twice in, like, ten minutes. Is there perhaps something else you need to talk about?”

Jade shrinks into herself a little. “I’m sorry,” she starts, and then she grimaces. “I mean—I just don’t know a lot about this stuff. Obviously I had friends growing up, and I am super super grateful for them and everything, but a lab partner is kind of… a new thing. I don’t know what we’re supposed to talk about.”

Dirk shrugs. “I don’t think they make a handbook for these sorts of things, so I’m not sure there is a supposed to.” They sit in an awkward silence for another minute, so then he adds, “Hey, do you wanna watch a movie? Feels like turnabout’s fair play in terms of you showing me Dave’s hidden music. I think I’ve got one of his old movies.”

They watch one of his brother’s movies, which is even worse than Dirk remembers them being, and Jade falls asleep on his couch. Dirk can’t help but smile at her, which feels weird. Normally, Roxy is the only person who can draw a natural smile out of him. Even Jake can’t, not even when they were dating, but Jade is just like, a living ray of sunshine. He can see why Dave thinks she’s so special.

Jade works at the same freakishly devoted pace that Dirk does, which is weird for him. He’s used to that sort of ray of sunshine type of person trying to pull him out of a work-obsessed funk (granted, his past experience is kind of just limited to Roxy), but Jade makes it seem like building robots is actually fun. That was never why he did it, but with her, it kind of is fun. They blare music, and she sings along to all of the ones with words. She’s not a very good singer, but she makes up for it with enthusiasm. He thinks.

They end up finishing their little companion project in two weeks, and when they emerge from the pit of hyperfixation, Dirk just kind of stares at her. “How did we do that?” he asks, like she has a real answer for him.

Jade laughs. “You got Harley’d, sucker!” Dirk starts laughing with her.

He decides that Jade deserves to be there when he presents this thing to Arquius. It’s her baby as much as it is his—actually, it’s probably more her baby than his, on account of being her literal brainchild.

Arquius assesses the carbon steel hull of the powered-down robot with his arms crossed. Dirk is pretty sure it’s a combination of that being the best posture to show off the muscles he’s still obsessed with and that being his best attempt at seeming unimpressed.

“So this is Lois?” he asks, and Dirk immediately raises his eyebrows.

“Like, of Superman fame? You’re comparing yourself to the ubermensch? Doesn’t that seem a little on the nose to you, with your weird troll superiority complex and everything? Don’t make me take your toy away.”

Jade is giggling with her hands over her mouth, but she says, “Like Malcolm in the Middle!”

Dirk shoots her a flat look. “I have no idea what that is.”

“Yes you do,” Arquius says. “You watched the entire series from June—”

“The fact that you are able to say things whenever you want is evidence that gods aren’t real.”

Jade is practically cackling at this point, grinning at Arquius brighter than Dirk thinks should be possible. “What do you think of her?”

The sprite does another circle around the robot, arms still crossed. Dirk is pretty sure he can see sweat beading up on his brow, which is gross for several reasons, but he isn’t about to bring it up and risk an actual conversation about it. This guy likes talking about sweat almost as much as he likes talking about horses and himself.

“She is… adequate. I believe you have designed her accurately to my specifications.” Arquius nods, though it doesn’t really radiate approval. Dirk isn’t sure he’s fully capable of radiating approval. “Yes. This will do quite nicely.”

“Fuck yeah!” Jade says, holding a hand out to Dirk. Oh hell yes. He smacks his palm against hers for a crisp high five. Robot made.

[persephoneaangel444]

𐙚 ⋆˚｡⋆Astrological Observations on the Kalogera sisters--- 𐙚 ⋆˚｡⋆

(Disclaimer: This is mostly for fun!! Pls don't take any of this information offensive if you are a fan of the Kalogera sisters!! I am a fan of them too. Lastly, their zodiac signs are confirmed but the rest of their astrological placements are not, so I will just base them from my own observation on their personalities and appearances. Thanks and enjoy)

⋆˚｡⋆｡𖦹° Demitra Kalogera ⋆˚｡⋆｡𖦹°

------ Pisces sun - Aries moon - Aries ascendant ------

𖦹 Demitra's Appearance: She has large Bambi like eyes with full lips and bunny like nose. She has a more Oval face shape compared to her sisters, more defined than Eli (her younger sister Eli has a more round face shape but still less defined face shape than her older sister Sunday). I think Demitra's ascendant is Aries due to her facial features look more fierce/Sassy and somewhat impulsive just like her personality. She is also the Tallest of her sisters which makes sense because Aries rules the physical body in astrology. Her eyebrows are also much darker than her sisters making her seem more rough around the edges but shows a lot of passion and enthusiasm in her facial expressions.

𖦹 Demitra's Personality: From watching her and her sisters on You-tube, she out of all of them is the most outspoken and charismatic. She speaks her mind, is honest and very loyal towards her sisters. She can also come off as protective towards them especially to her sister Sunday. Despite her more out there persona, she seems to also be quite the most feminine in terms of her always dressing up, making sure her make up and hair is on point in each video. She also loves to wear dresses or clothes that accentuate her beautiful body. I've also noticed that even in smaller things when one of her sisters accidentally get hurt in their videos she's always the first one to ask and makes sure they are ok. I also think she suits being an Aries moon because she can't control her facial expressions as smoothly as her sisters making her more obvious in her thoughts and true feelings. In a way which makes her a little bit more impatient with others because there's that expectation in her that other people should be as honest to her about their feelings as she is with them. I've also noticed she's subtle about wanting things to be played fair and square, she's less cunning but more straight to the point type a gal. She makes an excellent friend and a wonderful lover. Despite her love for her sisters, she tends to also be the one most independent from them, she isn't afraid to go off and explore things on her own which makes her a bit more demanding of what she wants in life and how she's willing to get them.

In Conclusion for Demitra's chart. She's a Pisces sun due to her being like a fish a balance of flight and fierceness. She's loyal, caring, intuitive, as well as sassy, outspoken, honest and charismatic. All these qualities that embody her Pisces sun and the fierce independence she harnesses comes from her Aries moon and ascendant.

⋆ ❀˖°° Sunday Kalogera ⋆❀˖°

----- Gemini sun - Scorpio moon - Taurus ascendant -----

✿ Sunday's Appearance: She has a more fixed looked to her facial features, especially her eyes. Her eyes aren't as big as her sister (Demitra) but it is still in fact big. Her eyes are just more subtly upturned giving her a more coy/shy look to her features. Her nose being more long and sharp pointed, her lips full and her eyebrows perfectly arched giving her that more stubborn/intense look. Her face shape especially is more defined than her sisters (Demitra and Eli), she has high cheek bones and a more pointed jawline this is in relation to her Taurus ascendant being more fixed, stubborn look but overall complimenting her other features. Taurus ascendant (which rules planet Venus of Beauty, Love and Relationships). Her hair is also healthy with long curls at the tips (if you noticed demitra's curls are more closer to her head whilst Sunday's curls are more at the bottom or ends of her hair instead) this gives her a more fairy/airy like features (her being a Gemini sun, a balance of light and dark known as the twins of the zodiac).

✿ Sunday's Personality: She's more reserved and shy around strangers and would rather observe than speak but when she is with people she's comfortable with (especially her sisters) she becomes more honest, outspoken and a little silly. (especially her little giggles every time one of her sisters make her laugh). this makes her in my observation a Scorpio moon because she only ever shows the more open or vulnerable sides to her with people she truly cares about, which makes her a little bit more intense with her feelings and emotions than her siblings. (She's the type to when needed to say something she will and means it wholeheartedly that's why I think her moon is in Scorpio. She also has these moments where she randomly says things amidst any situation (with her sisters in their you-tube channel being chaotic asf) which makes her a little bit of an air head. (her being a Gemini sun) I've also noticed that a big role to her Scorpio moon is that she rarely says things that get too personal, or things close to her heart, which makes her more guarded and secretive about her feelings. (Sometimes her unconscious comments on her being socially anxious around others in little clips shows that her Scorpio moon if not fulfilled with the right amount of attention could show she either goes into fight or flight mode easily, having a huge play on self-esteem.) I've noticed that her placements especially her Taurus ascendant, Scorpio moon makes her magnetic but due to her Gemini sun it somewhat makes her a little aloof due to her more airy side, like she always wants to escape every time she's around strangers. Her placements could also have this unconscious silent competitiveness with her and her siblings (Eli and Demitra) for they have the more outgoing personalities and her being more introverted, when she's pressured or pushed can blow up like a storm thus making her intense (thus observation of thinking she's a Scorpio moon)

In Conclusion for Sunday's Chart. She's lovely, silly, honest, creative and sweet n a little bit airy from her Gemini sun but due to her Scorpio moon she's more emotionally intense, observing, secretive and mischievous towards her siblings. All these that embody her Gemini sun, showing a balance of Dark and Light attributes to her. She has this fixed all or nothing personality thus being somewhat underestimated a lot by her beauty from her you tube viewers. (Taurus ascendant)

⋆˚｡⟡° Eli Kalogera ⋆˚｡⟡°

---- Leo sun - Sagittarius moon - Virgo ascendant ----

✮ Eli's Appearance: Her eyes are more droopy puppy dog eyed, Big eyes like her sisters (bigger than Demitra's and Sunday's). She has larger full lips and when she smiles it's a full big on smile where her dimples show on her cheeks and her smile shows off her white teeth. This is due to her Sagittarius moon, Sagittarius which rules planet Jupiter of expansion, adventure and humor. She has a more built in body, more curvy than her sisters having larger hips and bust size. (due to used to being a cheerleader). She has round cheeks and a more Round like face structure showing off more of a feminine soft look to her. Her Virgo ascendant showing off mercurial placements of communication and interrelationships.

✮ Eli's Personality: She out of all her siblings, dresses up more casual due to her Sagittarius moon being more abundant and bigger than life energy which makes her more unafraid to show herself raw or authentic self but she sometimes dresses up due to her competitiveness of not wanting to be out shined by her Sisters (Demitra and Sunday, especially Demitra) in which Eli's Leo sun comes to play. I notice she's very competitive in general with her siblings always not wanting to be outdone and it's due to her Virgo ascendant and Leo sun of striving for perfection and expectation driven by passion.

In Conclusion she's goofy, competitive, blunt as well as passionate and well-driven perfectionist due to her Virgo ascendant and her Leo sun as well as her Sagittarius moon.

[alienstagess]

“Disgust” Luka image theories:

NOTE: no arguing in comments.

Image source: VIVINOS official YouTube channel.

To start the image itself in terms of color scheme and presentation should be noted, it’s a very crowded piece of art and the colors are very dull and solemn. The color scheme that was chosen shows a cold harsh atmosphere yet the positioning of the luka variations appear to be cradling him. This is actually interesting considering the title of the next video expected to come out. It’s called “Wiege” and a rough translation to English means cradle- perhaps a subtle reference they chose to keep in however it very well could have been done with intention (I’ll get back to that concept a bit later on). Another few things to be noted are the fact it’s a very vulnerable piece, this seems to have also been done with intention to create a sense of vulnerability that isn’t often shown by luka (normally a very closed off character and sort of outcasted from peers// whether that is solely by choice or not is up for debate. Especially after his friendship with Hyuna ended). Now taking a look at the Lukas surrounding the central one we also can pick out some interesting details, all have varying hair and facial expressions but also a key feature is to take a look at the hands. Luka is known to have heart issues which inevitably left his finger tips to turn purple due to the lack of presence of oxygen. The central luka (the real one that we know) we don’t see his hands depicted in the image, it’s cut off so it’s out of view. The hand placement of the surrounding Luka’s is very interesting, but there seems to be a sense of weight and from what we can see they’re underwater. There’s bubbles coming out of the mouth depicting luka drowning, and all the surrounding Luka’s seem to be dragging him down or keeping him under the water. There’s an interesting hand placement on his chest, with one hand making a finger gun like motion, that’s pointing almost to his heart this detail will be important in a moment. As mentioned previously luka has heart issues we seen evidence of such in his surgery scars that can be seen in the outfit he wears in blink gone. Notice now the placement of the finger gun, it is covering some of the scars, same with a few of the other hands and surrounding luka’s. Before we get I to potential meanings and more theories we should take a look at the Central Luka’s expression, his expression suggests he is drowning in some sort of ocean, his expression shows slightly raised eyebrows often a indication of distress. His eyes are devoid of light and staring blankly as if he’s conscious but not actually there (disoriented even). His body seems very limp and he is not seeming to make any attempts to pull away from the surrounding Luka’s or even fight back against the seeming circumstance he is in. He is quite literally just letting it happen. While his expression mirrors one of distress the rest of the ones around him appear at ease and relaxed even.

Now that we have some context we can get into some theories of what all of that might mean.

Luka was created to literally be perfect life form to compete in alien stage, it was his sole purpose and reason for creation. We don’t actually know how many times this was attempted or exactly what features they were looking for when creating Luka as everyone has their own ideas and definitions of perfection. The ones surrounding him could be failed versions of himself. Luka himself isn’t entirely perfect, the most noticeable imperfection being the results of his heart condition / problems. The hand gun over the heart could be pointing to the thing he is super insecure about maybe even disgusted about. Despite this imperfection he’s still kept around as he still holds worth and is seemingly a fan favourite among the alien population. Another thing that’s interesting is the fact luka is always pretending to be everyone but himself. during various rounds he uses mimicking to make people mess up and add another win to the board.

Another I have is that Luka is quite literally a rock in a hard place. He is doomed to be nothing more and nothing less than the purpose they assign to him. There’s no escape from said fate unless he literally dies. He’s drowning in the sea of losing control over his own existence, he can’t scream or even ask for help and is trapped unable to even swim up for air. Weighed down by the burden of fate. The Luka surrounding him have a sense of acceptance…

acknowledgements even, yet he still hasn’t come to terms and instead of fighting he is forced to sit there and let it happen. He knows his worth to the aliens and that even if he tried he will forever be weighed down by the pressure. They’re cradling him coaxing him into accepting his existence.

I believe Luka to somewhat be a very insecure character deep down, maybe he is still unsatisfied with himself and that has lead to disgust. The Luka’s surrounding him comforting his insecurities and covering them, reminding him it’s what he was made for they’re hiding his insecurities. Luka is also often shown being bored and uninterested during scenes when he gets attention from the paparazzi. He very well could hate being seen as a “pet” and forced to be perfect on TV and expected to sit silently and just take it.

Or maybe even Luka’s own behaviour has isolated him and he’s left with no one to comfort but quite literally himself.

Luka being the “prince” of alien stage and maybe he is suffocating under the weight and pressure of perfectionism. He never seems himself as being good enough and is held under the pressure of accommodating everyone else’s desire of him further reinforcing the point he has quite literally no control over his life. Which could be why he becomes so manipulative on the rounds because it’s the only instance where he feels in control.

Another thing this image could be is potentially different versions of himself from the past alien stage, before his heart condition took over and caused his main insecurity that “disgusts” him. If we look at the lengths of hair it’s very well possible these could all be versions of himself. Maybe he viewed those previous versions as perfect and then as time went on his insecurities grew and he longs to go back how it was. they’re all covering his insecurities and his current version of himself feels as if there’s something wrong with him. There’s a saying hair holds memory and maybe such saying can be applied here in this context.

Anyway those are some theories about the disgust luka image, reminder these are all theories and nothing here has been confirmed it’s all purely speculation! Please do not argue In comments as these are just hypotheticals! I apologize if there’s any spelling errors!

[jyotishdiaries]

Hi! I hope you are doing well

I really like your posts, could you let me know your view on my placements if that's okay with you?

I have Mrigashira Ascendant (with saturn retrograde in ardra but you can just ignore that part since it's not in the big 3, I just thought that it could potentially be relevant)

I also have a Shravana sun

And I also have an Uttara Bhadrapada moon

Thank you for your time!

Hey, I’m so glad you reached out with your chart! It’s such a beautiful trio.

Mrigashira Lagna, Shravana Sun, and Uttara Bhadrapada Moon immediately tell me that your emotions (Moon), essence (Sun), and interface with the world (Lagna) are all rooted in deeply reflective, searching, and listening energies but each in their own unique way.

Mrigashira Ascendant:

As your rising nakshatra, Mrigashira gives you a curious, questing, and mentally agile aura. People may see you as gentle, soft-spoken, but highly perceptive. You probably pick up on what others miss or you’re always asking the questions that others didn’t think to. There’s a kind of “forever seeker” energy here. You’re always sniffing out the next truth, meaning, or connection that helps you make sense of the world. The deer symbolism is strong: alert, elegant, and elusive. It also suggests a life path shaped by movement, discovery, and the subtle art of emotional withdrawal when safety feels threatened. Do you like being chased in romantic connections? It wouldn’t be surprising.

And even though you said to ignore it, Saturn in Ardra being retrograde in your 1H is relevant. It adds a karmic weight to your identity. There might be a lifelong feeling that you have to earn your space, prove your seriousness, or be strong before being soft. Ardra is a stormy nakshatra, so your seeking isn’t just for curiosity, it’s for survival. Saturn here makes you reconstruct your sense of self again and again, often through difficult but deeply formative trials. And in some sort of way, those trials are actually the ones that taught you to ask the right questions. In terms of looks, Mrigashira gives a youthful, bright-eyed quality to the face but Saturn’s presence might neutralize or mature that energy. So interesting to see both tension and grace co-existing in your outer expression!

The eyes could be large and bright. The facial features are often refined, sometimes angular, with a natural softness in expression.

But Saturn in Ardra modifies this with a more serious or intense undertone. The face might carry sharper bone structure, a straighter nose, or a stern resting expression despite being quite attractive. Ardra brings a "stormy" gaze to your large and bright eyes and add an edge. Like piercing eyes, or an expression that suggests depth, grief, or knowingness beyond their years. The retrograde adds to this sense of internal processing, like they’re holding back so much inside.

You might notice:

Thin or lean body, especially early in life

Quick, alert movements

Hair that could be thick or dark, sometimes unruly or with a widow’s peak (Ardra influence). Saturn here could bring early greys.

Shravana Sun:

Shravana is ruled by Vishnu, the preserver, and sits in Capricorn, so your core vitality is about listening, interpreting, and preserving knowledge and systems. You likely have a deep sense of responsibility, especially toward learning from others or being a source of guidance yourself. There may be a sense that your identity needs to be useful, respected, or wise to feel fully valid. Others don't get it, but you have a crazy moral compass and the standards you set for yourself.....boy oh boy. But at your best, you carry the quiet dignity of someone who knows that truth speaks loudest through presence, not noise. I am really biased towards this nakshatra, it's my own moon sign and a large part of who I am is attributed to this nakshatra. It's a heavy one. Based on your ascendent, the sun is in the 8th house. The Sun, which is about ego, soul purpose, authority, self-expression, doesn't shine easily here. Instead, it’s asked to burn in the dark and to find strength not from public recognition but from inner integrity and spiritual resilience.

Possible experiences could include feeling unseen or misunderstood in youth, especially by male figures, craving privacy or power, while fearing exposure, repeated ego-death experiences like having to let go of old versions of self, strong spiritual depth or psychic sensitivity, especially if other planets support this. You may eventually develop a mastery over healing, taboo topics, deep research work.

Uttara Bhadrapada Moon:

This is one of the deepest Moons to carry emotionally. Uttara Bhadrapada swims in the underworld ocean, ruled by Ahirbudhnya who is the serpent of the deep. You probably experience intense inner worlds and private emotional processing. This Moon is capable of profound emotional stillness and compassion, but it comes through periods of silence, release, and surrender. You’re likely the kind of person others come to without knowing why and there’s a spiritual gravity to your emotional presence. At times though, it can feel like you’re carrying a lot alone.

Taken together, your big three show someone made to move between realms (mind, emotion, spirit) and translate them for others through your Shravana soul. Another story behind Shravana is of Shravana Kumar, a boy so devoted to his blind parents that he carried them on his shoulders. And in doing so, taught the world about duty, responsibility, and dharma. I always see that narrative inside people with this placement: the weight of something sacred, and the quiet strength to carry it and teach others what they know and hear.

There’s a calm intensity to your chart. People might underestimate you at first glance but your depth, discipline, and insight always rise to the surface when it matters most.

Sorry if this is too long. I hope I helped in some way 💛 You actually have really nice placements that are often present in teachers - not the ones in school, but in life! Like a guru.

[blueepink07]

Thinking about this question addresed to Muu...

What's your dream for the future?

Muu wanting to be a model herself it's not something very surprising, sure, especially considering that her mother was a model too.

What are the occupations of your family members?

However I always wondered what kind of model she can be.

Fashion model industry has a requirement for heights. Usually, you need to be at least 170 cm (5'7") to be able to be a fashion model. Because of Kotoko's height and appearance, even Milgram describes her as having features that will make her a good model!

In Japan, the height requirement is less strict, the minimum being 166 cm (5'6").

However, Muu's official height is 162 cm (5'3"), so she doesn't fit the height requirements. And unfortunately for her, the chances of her becoming taller are low, because girls usually stop growing after 15 years old, Muu being older than that.

So how did Muu receive scouting offers if she doesn't fit the requirements to be a fashion model? Well, simple, despite that I always viewed Muu as being a fashion lover, especially after trial 2, there are other types of modelling!

Fashion (Editorial) Model, Runway Model, Commercial Model, Fitness Model, Parts Model and many more! (if anyone is interested I'll put the link here!)

Based on these, Muu can be, most probably, a commercial model and parts model!

Commercial Models are not restricted by age, height, or size, while parts model basically means having body parts and facial features that make you stand out, usually used on editorial, advertising, and catalog work.

Muu has been complimented many times for her looks, even her profile states that she is very beautiful.

But modelling is not just about being considered pretty, you need to have something that makes you stand out!

"Being a model isn't just about being “good looking” or “pretty.” There are a lot of beautiful people in the world. If you're serious about getting into modeling, it's important to have “a look.” There should be something unique about the way you look or the way you're built."

And Muu actually posses this feature!

In the first voice drama, Es is noticing her unusual and pretty face features.

Based on this, we can say that Muu might be a perfect face model!

"Beauty modelling, also known as face modelling, is a category of modelling that takes place predominantly in the beauty industry – so skincare, make-up and cosmetics. Models regularly require extremely close-up photos of their faces, or parts of their faces, so it’s important beauty models are well-groomed and take care of their skin, hair and nails."

Healthy hair and clear skin

Well-maintained nails

"You need to learn how to move the tiny muscles in the face to create different expressions. Can you smile or laugh convincingly on demand? Can you look gloomy or thoughtful at a moment’s notice? If you have a natural poker face and struggle to control or show emotions, you’ll struggle being a beauty model."

Muu is very expressive when it comes to her emotions and feelings. If something bothers her, she will not hesitate to be blunt about it. An event that made her upset? She will show her sadness by crying, will be vocal about it. An action that made her happy? Her body language is easy to read and, with a confident and pretty smile, she'll show her cheerfulness!

Moreover, Muu is able to change her emotions very quickly and easily.

A good example is in her first voice drama, where Muu, after many minutes of crying, is changing her attitude in a few seconds, after seeing Es talking with Jackalope.

So Muu can easily be a famous face model if she truly wants to!

Also, another interesting thing!

Muu is saying that her mother, who was once a model, is not active anymore.

"But while most female models are considered ready for retirement by the time they turn 25, males tend to start later and are more likely to make modeling a long-term career."

Although, 25 is not necessarily the age when female models have to retire, there being many exceptions, depending on how they maintain themselves, for Muu's mother it's very possible that she retired during that age!

If we take Muu's father age, based on this portal timeline conversation:

"Kazui: Hm? Ah…… Kusunoki-chan. Sorry for asking out of the blue, but how old is your father?

Mu: Eh…? Um… I think he’s 41…"

which is 41, and we consider that her mother is the same age, then, when Muu has been born she was 25 years old! The same age when most models retire! So Muu's mother most probably retired short after her daughter's birth!

[opalytes]

" when   𝗰𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗱   𝗯𝗶𝗿𝗱𝘀   get   to   𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨,   does   anybody   hear   them   when   they   do   ?   when   𝗰𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗱   𝗯𝗶𝗿𝗱𝘀   get   to   𝘧𝘭𝘺,   does   anybody   ever   question   why   ? "

intro     task     for            [     …     ]            𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨     . 

basics.

FACECLAIM elçin sangu

CHARACTER NAME starling / mine doğuş

NICKNAME(S) minnuş ( a nickname from before, by family and friends, a very very turkish nickname indeed. ), star ( current nickname, she likes it ! )

GENDER/PRONOUNS cis woman, she/her

SEXUALITY heterosexual

HEIGHT 1.70 ( the mun can't do the american way of this height thingy, sorry )

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES fiery red hair ( she'd been dyeing it for so long, probably couldn't even remember her brunette times from before, good thing she doesn't need to do that in after right, now she may be eternally a redhead ???? ), exaggerated facial expressions, silky singing voice ( like a starling, she is good at mimicking too ! ), big big brown eyes.

APPEARS (THE AGE AT TIME OF DEATH) 39

BIRTHDAY 14th of july

PLACE OF BIRTH istanbul, beyoğlu, türkiye

NATIONALITY turkish

FAMILY INFORMATION only child of a middle income family, both her parents had to watch her ... die on a theatre stage

CAUSE OF DEATH a stage mishap during her last performance ( hint: it wasn't just a simple mishap )

TRAITS (+) creative, altruistic, passionate (-) dramatic, nostalgic, rhapsodic

LIKES being on stage ( duh ! ), intricately detailed fashion pieces that would make any normal person look overdressed but not her, musicals, collecting shiny things ( especially jewelry and crystals ), the sight of sea in türkiye especially, old turkish movies that almost always have a happy ending, working hard for the goals she set for herself.

DISLIKES things that require too much analytical thinking, cooking, fast fashion, not meeting the goals she had set for herself, getting reminded of the life she had in the before ( yup, she is deep down not on good terms with how she died, the age of her death, her not fully lived life, and all that jazz. she'd rather not talk about it or fake her emotions about it even. )

HOBBIES the acting - singing - dancing holy trinity ( when u get to turn your hobby into your jobby but life's too cruel and u die young, rip !!! ), script writing.

HABITS forever humming some tune, some stray melody—a song for every moment. her imagination always doing its thing, far too vivid for its own good, reigned supreme, transforming the most ordinary sights into rich scenes, perceiving other shades around her as if they are characters in the play inside her head, an endless theatre of possibilities unfolding in her mind. giving a slight bow before departing a place.

optionals.

EXTRAS click here for pinterest.

CHARACTER TROPES the heart, fiery redhead, child prodigy, unlimited wardrobe, small start; big finish, curtain call

CHARACTER INSPIRATIONS

" sometimes when i’m awake at night, i think about it, the story of you; sometimes when i’m awake at night, i think about it, the things that we lose; too soon. "

the song "the soprano & midnight wonderings by bastille" has been a big inspiration for her. like, a very big one. the lyrics at the start of this post also belong to that beautiful song. if i’d known you’d be skimming through this post and was asked which part i’d most want you to not miss, it would be this song. clickety click for the song.

MEMES

let's imagine the birb is a starling !!!

ft. gull who is, of course, pink one fjdsndfjf

another one ft. gull !!! fjdsfdsnks

MORAL ALIGNMENT lawful good

[korras-kewchie]

The Scarlet Thread of Fate

Mikasa x Hizuru Prince, Arranged Marriage AU, Cannonverse cannon divergence.

15k words.

Mikasa's mother was the tallest woman she ever knew on Paradis. Everyone seems giant when you're a child, but she remembers the way her mother had towered over her father. Her long, graceful limbs and thick, strong bones. She thought it was normal; until her father and mother were gone, and she was living with the Jaegers, and Carla and every other woman in Shiganshina was shorter and smaller than their husbands.

Despite always being considered tall for her age - taller than most girls - she does not inherit her mothers height, only most of her facial features, her strong, hard to break bones, Her thick, silky black hair, and the mark on her wrist her mother left her with mere weeks before she was murdered.

When the people of Hizuru first arrive on their shores, it's like there are titans on their land again. It's daunting. These people look like her - like her mother - but even the shortest of the visiting Azumabito clan are a full 30 centimeters taller than their tallest soldiers. The tallest of the Azumabito were more than 60 centimeters taller than them.

When she reveals the marking her mother gave her, their reactions are a mix of shock, disbelief, and awe. Kiyomi has to sit to be at Mikasa's eye level, which makes her feel kind of like a little girl again, and explains that she is the last living descendant of Hizuru's original royal line.

"We couldn't tell at first." She explains when they get a chance to speak in private. "All Hizurans are naturally tall and robust, especially those of royal and noble lineages. Three generations have taken a lot from you."

"My mother was tall." Mikasa tells her. "Not as tall as you, but I'm not sure I've met a Paradisian woman taller than she was." And Kiyomi nods in understanding.

"Man," Connie later complains to the Levi squad in the privacy of the mess hall after all the other squads have left, "I haven't felt that small since the first time I saw a titan."

-

The meeting hall fell silent as Premier Zackly finished reading the proposal aloud. Mikasa Ackerman sat rigid in her chair, her dark eyes fixed on the ornate document that would seal her fate. The parchment bore the imperial seal of Hizuru—a golden dragon coiled around a rising sun—and its weight seemed to press down on her shoulders like a physical burden.

"Let me understand this correctly," Captain Levi's voice cut through the silence like a blade. "They want to trade our Mikasa like cattle in exchange for their technology and supplies."

"Captain," Commander Pixis warned, but his own expression showed his distaste for the arrangement. "The terms are... generous. Medical supplies, food, all the newest anti titan advanced weaponry, and a long-term public alliance while they advocate that we can't be mosters because we protected their princess. Paradis Island would benefit immensely."

Mikasa's fingers tightened around the arms of her chair. At seventeen, she had already seen more horror and death than most people would in several lifetimes. The war with Marley had left Paradis Island battered and desperate for resources. The offer from Hizuru's current Emperor seemed like salvation wrapped in silk—if she was willing to pay the price.

"The Prince Akira is said to be a fair and educated man," Historia continued, her voice gentle but diplomatic. "The marriage would secure not only immediate aid but also establish Paradis as a recognized nation in the international community."

"A fair man?" Jean scoffed from his position near the wall. "We don't know anything about him except that he's the Emperor's youngest son and apparently built like a titan."

The delegation from Hizuru had been impressive—and intimidating. Even the shortest among them had stood well over seven feet tall, making Mikasa feel childlike despite her own respectable height by Paradis standards. The ambassador who had delivered the proposal had looked down at her with calculating eyes, no doubt measuring her worth as a broodmare for their prince now that she looked back on the encounter.

"The people of Hizuru believe strongly in the Azumabito bloodline," the ambassador had explained to the Commanders in a hushed voice earlier. "Miss Ackerman's heritage, combined with the royal line, would produce heirs of great significance to our people. It would legitimize Prince Akira's eventual claim to the throne over his older brothers."

Mikasa had remained silent throughout the explanation, but she understood the implications. She wasn't just being asked to marry a stranger—she was being asked to become a political weapon in a succession dispute.

"There has to be another way," Eren said suddenly, his green eyes blazing with fury. "We've fought for our freedom for years. We can't just hand Mikasa over to them like she's property."

"It's not that simple, Eren," Armin interjected quietly. "Without Hizuru's support, we might not survive the next year. The island's resources are nearly depleted, and we're still catching up to the rest of the world."

Commander Hanji nodded reluctantly. "As much as I hate to admit it, Armin's right. We need allies, and Hizuru is offering more than just an alliance—they're offering legitimacy."

Mikasa finally spoke, her voice steady despite the turmoil in her chest. "What exactly would be expected of me?"

The room fell silent again. Premier Zackly cleared his throat uncomfortably. "According to the proposal, you would travel to Hizuru after the wedding ceremony, which would take place here on Paradis. You would... fulfill your duties as a royal wife and princess. The document mentions certain... expectations regarding the frequency of... marital obligations."

Heat crept up Mikasa's neck. "Marital obligations?" She asked with a pit forming in her stomach. Zackly nods.

"Marital obligations." He repeats. "Twice a week, to ensure the production of heirs as quickly as possible. Until at least two healthy children are born."

Sasha made an outraged, disgusted sound. "They really did write it out like a breeding contract."

"Because that's exactly what it is," Levi said coldly. "They want to use Mikasa's womb and her bloodline to legitimize their prince's claim to the throne, and they're willing to pay handsomely for the privilege."

"The wedding would be conducted according to both Hizuru and Paradis customs," Commander Pixis stated, clearly uncomfortable with the idea of this. "Hizuru would provide traditional royal wedding attire and... certain ceremonies would need to be observed. Including the... consummation needing to be witnessed."

Mikasa's stomach lurched. She had read about ancient royal traditions, but the reality of strangers watching her most intimate moments made her feel sick.

"Witnessed?" Eren's voice was deadly quiet, rage simmering beneath the surface.

"It's an ancient tradition to ensure the marriage is properly consummated," Hanji explained gently. "Representatives from both nations would be present to verify..."

"That's barbaric," Connie said flatly.

"It's politics," Hanji corrected, though her own voice shook slightly. "Everything about this is politics."

The room fell silent as everyone absorbed the full implications of what was being asked. Mikasa looked around at her squad—her family—and saw the pain in their eyes. They had fought together, bled together, nearly died together more times than she could count. The thought of leaving them behind felt like tearing away part of her soul.

But the thought of Paradis Island falling to starvation or invasion felt worse.

"I'll do it," she said quietly.

"Mikasa, no," Eren started forward, but she held up a hand to stop him.

"I'll do it," she repeated, louder this time. "If it means protecting Paradis—protecting all of you—then I'll do it."

"You don't have to sacrifice yourself for us," Armin said desperately. "There has to be another way."

"What other way?" Mikasa asked, finally looking up to meet their eyes. "We've been over this a dozen times. We need allies, we need resources, and we need legitimacy in the international community. This marriage provides all three."

"At the cost of your freedom!" Eren shouted.

Mikasa smiled sadly. "What freedom did any of us ever really have? We've been fighting for survival since we were children. At least this way, my sacrifice means something. It protects the island and everyone on it."

"The proposal states that you would be allowed to maintain correspondence with your family and friends on Paradis," Commander Nile offered weakly. "And that delegations would be permitted to visit under certain circumstances."

"Letters," Connie said bitterly. "They're offering letters in exchange for the life of our friend."

"It's not forever," Mikasa said, though the words felt hollow. "Once the political situation stabilizes, once the alliance is secure..."

But she couldn't finish the sentence. They all knew that royal marriages rarely ended in anything but death. She would be bound to this prince until one of them died, expected to produce heirs and play the role of a dutiful princess for the rest of her life.

"I need time to think about the details," she said finally. "But my answer is yes. I'll marry Prince Akira of Hizuru."

The silence that followed was deafening. One by one, her squadmates began to protest, to argue, to plead with her to reconsider. But Mikasa had already made her choice. She had always been willing to sacrifice herself for the people she loved, and this was no different.

Even if it meant leaving behind everything and everyone she had ever known.

Even if it meant giving her body and her future to a stranger who saw her as nothing more than a political tool.

Even if it meant facing the unknown terrors of an ancient imperial court where she would be surrounded by people who viewed her as an outsider, a threat, and a means to an end.

She would do it because it was her duty.

And because she loved them all too much to let Paradis fall.

-

The weeks following Mikasa's acceptance of the marriage proposal passed in a blur of preparations and increasingly desperate attempts by her friends to change her mind. The Levi Squad had taken to cornering her at every opportunity, presenting alternative plans that ranged from practical to completely insane.

"We could stage another coup," Jean suggested during one particularly heated discussion in the mess hall. "Take control of the government and reject the proposal entirely."

"And then watch Paradis starve when Hizuru withdraws their offer," Armin countered wearily. "We've been over this, Jean. There's no good alternative."

Mikasa pushed her food around her plate, having lost her appetite weeks ago. The weight of her decision sat heavy in her stomach, making every meal feel like swallowing stones. Around her, her friends continued their familiar argument, voices raised in frustration and desperation.

"There has to be something," Sasha insisted. "Some other nation willing to trade with us, some other way to get the resources we need."

"Every other nation sees us as devils," Connie pointed out glumly, chin resting in his hand. "Hizuru is the only one willing to deal with us, and only because they want Mikasa's fancy royal womb." Sasha smacked him hard right on the back of his neck.

The casual mention of her reproductive organs made Mikasa flinch. She had always known that her Ackerman heritage from her father's side made her valuable as a soldier, but she had never imagined her mother's blood would make her valuable as a commodity. The Azumabito blood that flowed through her veins had painted a target on her back—not for death this time, but for a fate that felt almost worse.

"The delegation from Hizuru arrives next week with the wedding preparations," Captain Levi announced as he joined their table. "They're bringing the ceremonial kimono - which is appearantly a type of dress - and... other necessities."

His tone made it clear that the "other necessities" included whatever arrangements were needed for the consummation ceremony. Mikasa's cheeks burned with embarrassment and anger. The thought of strange men watching her most intimate moments made her skin crawl, but it was apparently non-negotiable.

"This is insane," Eren muttered, his hands clenched into fists on the table. "We're talking about Mikasa like she's livestock being prepared for auction."

"Because that's exactly what this is," Levi replied bluntly. "Don't pretty it up with talk of duty and sacrifice. They want to breed her like a prize mare, and we're letting them do it because we're desperate."

"Captain," Mikasa said quietly, "it's not—"

"It is exactly that," Levi interrupted, his steel-gray eyes boring into hers. "Don't lie to yourself, Mikasa. This isn't noble sacrifice—it's desperation and politics wrapped up in fancy expensive ribbons."

The truth of his words hit her like a physical blow. She had been trying to frame her decision as heroic, as a necessary sacrifice for the greater good. But stripped of all pretense, she was indeed being traded like livestock—her womb and her blood bartered for supplies and military support.

"Maybe," she said finally, "but it's still the right choice. For Paradis."

"For Paradis, maybe," Eren said, his voice rough with emotion. "But what about for you? What about what you want?"

What did she want? Mikasa stared down at her untouched meal and tried to remember the last time anyone had asked her that question. Ever since her parents died, her entire life had been about protecting others, about duty and sacrifice and doing what needed to be done. Her own wants and desires had always been secondary.

"I want Paradis to survive," she said finally. "I want all of you to live and be safe. If this marriage accomplishes that, then it's what I want."

"That's not the same thing," Armin said gently. "Mikasa, when was the last time you did something just for yourself? Just because you wanted to?"

The question hung in the air unanswered because they all knew the truth. Mikasa had never had the luxury of selfish desires. From the moment her parents died, she had lived for others—first for Eren, then for her squad, then for humanity itself. The idea of making a choice based purely on her own wants was so foreign it might as well have been from another world.

"The point is moot," she said finally. "The decision is made. I leave for Hizuru the day after the wedding ceremony."

"You could change your mind," Historia offered hopefully. "Until the vows are spoken, you could still—"

"No." Mikasa's voice was firm. "I gave my word. Paradis needs this alliance, and I won't be the reason it falls apart."

The conversation died after that, leaving them all sitting in uncomfortable silence. Mikasa excused herself early and walked alone to her quarters, trying to ignore the weight of their disappointed stares.

Her room felt different now, knowing she would be leaving it soon. The simple military cot, the small desk where she maintained her gear, the window that looked out over the training grounds—all of it would soon be memories. In their place would be expensive sheets and servants she wasn't sure she would even feel comforable with, ornate furniture and court ceremonies, and a husband who was still a complete stranger.

A soft knock on her door interrupted her brooding. "Come in."

To her surprise, it was Eren who entered, closing the door softly behind him. He looked haggard, as if he hadn't been sleeping well, and his green eyes held a desperate intensity that made her stomach clench with dread.

"Eren," she started, but he held up a hand to stop her.

"Just listen," he said, moving to sit on the edge of her bed. "Please, just listen to me for once."

She remained standing by the window, arms crossed defensively. "If you're here to try to change my mind—"

"I'm here to ask you to run away with me."

The words hit her like a physical blow. She turned to stare at him, certain she had misheard. "What?"

"Tonight," he continued, his voice urgent and low. "We could leave tonight. Take a boat, disappear into the mainland. They can't force you to marry him and have his children if they can't find you."

"Eren, that's insane. Where would we go? How would we survive?"

"I don't know," he admitted. "But we'd figure it out. We always do. Mikasa, I can't—" His voice cracked, and he looked away. "I can't watch them give you to some stranger. I can't watch you disappear into that place and pretend to be happy about it. I already saved you from this once, I'll save you as many times as it takes."

"This isn't about what makes us happy," she said quietly, pointedly ignoring the second half of his statement. If she thought about those implications too hard, about the day they met and the situation she had agreed to, her resolve would crack for sure. "This is about doing what's right for Paradis."

"Fuck Paradis!" The vehemence in his voice shocked her. "What has Paradis ever done for you except take and take and take? You've given everything to this island—your childhood, your freedom, your chance at a normal life. And now they want your future, your body, your children! When is it enough!?"

"It's enough when everyone I care about is safe," she replied, quiet to hide the way her voice shook slightly. "Eren, you can't ask me to choose between my duty and my personal desires. You know what I'll choose every time."

"I'm not asking you to choose," he said desperately. "I'm asking you to be selfish. Just once. Just this once, choose yourself over everyone else."

The word 'selfish' hung between them like an accusation. Mikasa had never been selfish a day in her life—it had been beaten out of her by tragedy and necessity, by a world that demanded constant sacrifice from those strong enough to bear it.

"I don't know how," she whispered, the admission torn from her throat.

Eren was off the bed and across the room in an instant, his hands framing her face with desperate gentleness. "Then let me teach you. Come with me, Mikasa. We'll find somewhere quiet, somewhere safe. We'll build a life that's just ours, not the military's, not Paradis's, not anyone else's. Just ours."

For a moment, she let herself imagine it. A small house in the woods, perhaps. Simple meals shared in comfortable silence. Nights spent in each other's arms with no duty calls to interrupt them. A life where her greatest concern was what to plant in the garden, not which political alliance might save their people. And with Eren. It was everything she ever dreamed of. It was so close it made her chest ache and her lungs burn.

It was a beautiful dream.

It was also impossible.

"And what happens to Paradis?" she asked softly. "What happens to Historia, to Armin, to everyone else when Hizuru withdraws their support because I ran away like a coward?"

"They'll survive," Eren said, but his voice lacked conviction. "They'll find another way."

"Will they? You've seen the reports, Eren. Food stores are running low, medical supplies are nearly exhausted, and half our military artillery that isn't ODM gear is held together with prayer and determination. Without Hizuru's support, Paradis might not last another year. We damn sure won't survive a full scale invasion. The island would be massacred."

"So let's save ourselves instead."

The coldness in his voice made her step back, breaking his hold on her face. "And let everyone else die? Our friends, our comrades, innocent people who never asked for any of this?"

"Yes," he said desperately. "Yes, if it means keeping you safe. If it means we get to be together. Mikasa, I love you. I've always loved you, and I'm sorry I've always pushed you away. I'm sorry I never said it before - but the thought of watching you disappear into that palace, of knowing some stranger is touching you, claiming you—" He broke off, his hands clenched into fists at his sides.

The confession hung in the air between them, years too late and achingly painful. Mikasa felt tears prick at her eyes, but she blinked them back furiously.

"You love me," she said quietly. "But not enough to understand why I can't abandon everyone else for my own happiness."

"That's not fair—"

"Isn't it?" She turned back to the window, unable to look at his face. "You're asking me to choose between love and duty, between personal happiness and the greater good. And when I make the choice that protects the most people, you accuse me of not loving you enough."

"I'm asking you to choose yourself for once in your goddamn life!"

"And I'm telling you I don't know how!" The words tore from her throat in a harsh cry. "I don't know how to be selfish, Eren. I don't know how to put my own wants above everyone else's needs. It's not who I am."

"Then let me make the choice for you." His voice was quiet now, pleading. "Come with me. Let me take the blame, let me be the selfish one. You don't have to choose—I'll choose for both of us."

She closed her eyes, feeling the weight of temptation and duty warring in her chest. It would be so easy to say yes, to let Eren take responsibility for their escape. He could use his titan form, she could pretend she was being kidnapped, that she had no choice in the matter. It would absolve her of the guilt while still giving her what a secret, buried part of her desperately wanted.

But it would also doom Paradis.

"No," she whispered.

"Mikasa—"

"No." She turned to face him, her expression resolved despite the tears threatening to fall. "I won't run away with you, Eren. I won't abandon my duty for love, no matter how much I want to."

The admission slipped out before she could stop it. Eren's eyes widened, hope flaring in their green depths.

"You do want to," he said urgently. "You want to come with me."

"Of course I do," she said, her voice breaking. "Do you think this is easy for me? Do you think I want to marry a stranger and move to a foreign country where I'll be treated like a broodmare? Do you think I want to give my body to someone I don't love while the man I do love stays here, safe and free?"

"Then don't do it," he pleaded. "Choose love. Choose happiness. Choose me."

"I can't." The words came out like a sob. "I can't choose my happiness over everyone else's lives. That's not who I am, Eren. That's not who I'll ever be."

They stared at each other across the small room, the weight of what could never be settling between them like a stone. Eren's face crumpled with grief and frustration, and for a moment he looked like the boy she had grown up with instead of the hardened soldier he had become.

"I hate this," he whispered. "I hate that you're so good, so noble, so goddamn selfless that you'll sacrifice everything for people who don't deserve it."

"They do deserve it," she said quietly. "Everyone deserves a chance to live, to be free, to build something better. Even if it costs me everything."

"And what about what we deserve?" His voice was raw with pain. "Don't we deserve to be happy? Don't we deserve to choose love over duty and politics?"

"You deserve someone who can love you without reservation," she said, her heart breaking with every word. "Someone who has the ability choose you first, always. Someone who can be selfish enough to put love above everything else. Someone who won't be weighed down and taken from you by responsibility. For a long time, I thought I was that. And now I'm not."

Eren made a wounded sound, like an animal that had been fatally injured, and said "I don't want someone else. I want you."

"I know." She wiped at her eyes, hating the tears that betrayed her composure. "And I want you too. But we don't always get what we want, Eren. Sometimes we have to choose what's right over what we want."

He stared at her for a long moment, his face cycling through grief, anger, and desperate hope. Finally, his shoulders slumped in defeat.

"You're really going to do this," he said. "You're really going to marry him."

"Yes."

"And there's nothing I can say, nothing I can do, to change your mind."

"No."

He nodded slowly, as if the reality was finally sinking in. When he looked at her again, his eyes held a terrible emptiness that made her chest ache.

"Then I guess this is goodbye," he said quietly.

"Eren—"

"No." He held up a hand to stop her. "Don't make this harder than it already is. You've made your choice, and I have to respect it. Even if it kills me."

He moved toward the door, pausing with his hand on the handle. "I hope he makes you happy, Mikasa. I hope he earns you in a way that I never did."

"Eren, that's not—"

But he was already gone, leaving her alone with her duty and her tears.

-

The traditional Hizuru wedding kimono was the most beautiful thing Mikasa had ever seen—and the most terrifying. The fabric - silk, something she had never heard of - was the deep red of fresh blood, embroidered with golden dragons that seemed to writhe and dance in the candlelight. It was clearly made for a much taller woman than she. The shoulder seams hung to the middle of her biceps, the too-long sleeves hung several inches off her hands, covering them completely, the bottom of the dress pooled and gathered at her feet, maybe 25 centimeters too long for her. The obi - another garment completely unfamiliar to her - was wider than it was supposed to be on her torso and pressed over her bust, stiff with gold thread and precious stones that caught the light like captured stars.

"We'll have to make adjustments." The seamstress said in smooth, accented Paradisian, though they could all see the frustration on her elegant features.

"It's magnificent," Historia breathed, running her fingers along the intricate embroidery. "I've never seen craftsmanship like this."

On the day of the wedding, Mikasa stood perfectly still as the Hizuru servants dressed her in the altered Kimono, their movements precise and practiced. They had been preparing her for hours—bathing her in perfumed water, applying cosmetics with careful attention to detail, arranging her hair in an elaborate style that felt like it weighed ten pounds. The final step was the kimono itself, layer after layer of silk and tradition that transformed her from a soldier into something else entirely.

Something that belonged to someone else.

"The Prince will be pleased," one of the servants murmured in accented Paradisian. "You honor both our nations with your beauty."

Mikasa said nothing. She felt like a doll being dressed for display, her own opinions and feelings irrelevant to the spectacle being created around her. The kimono was beautiful, yes, but it was also a costume—a way of marking her as property of Hizuru, no longer truly belonging to Paradis.

"How do you feel?" Sasha asked quietly after the servants have finally left them alone, her usual boisterous nature subdued by the solemnity of the occasion.

"Heavy," Mikasa replied honestly. The kimono added at least twenty pounds to her frame, the elaborate obi making it difficult to breathe properly. "I feel heavy."

It was true in more ways than one. The physical weight of the ceremonial garments was nothing compared to the emotional weight of what was about to happen. In less than an hour, she would speak vows that would bind her to a stranger for life. She would promise to honor and obey a man she had never met, to bear his children and serve his family's political interests. It made her head spin.

A soft knock interrupted her thoughts. "Enter," Historia called.

To Mikasa's surprise, it was Captain Levi who stepped into the room. He took one look at her in the elaborate kimono and his expression grew even more grim than usual.

"You look like a sacrifice," he said bluntly.

"Levi," Historia scolded, but Mikasa actually felt grateful for his honesty.

"I feel like one," she admitted.

He studied her for a long moment, taking in the elaborate costume and the resignation in her eyes. "It's not too late," he said quietly. "I could create a distraction. You could disappear in the chaos." Historia and Sasha said nothing, though she could feel the weight of their stares. This wasn't the first time her Captain had offered her an out.

"And go where?" she asked wearily. "We've been over this, Captain. There's nowhere to run that wouldn't eventually lead back here. And even if there were, I won't abandon my duty."

"Your duty," he repeated, his voice flat. "Right."

Another knock, this time followed by Commander Hanji's voice. "The ceremony is about to begin. Is the bride ready?"

Mikasa looked at herself in the mirror one last time. The woman staring back was beautiful in an alien way, transformed by silk and cosmetics into something that barely resembled the soldier she had always been. The red kimono made her skin look pale as porcelain, and the elaborate hair ornaments caught the light like a crown.

She looked like a princess.

She looked like someone else entirely.

"I'm ready," she said.

The wedding ceremony itself passed in a blur of ancient rituals and formal words. Captain Levi and Commander Hanji filled in the role as her parents and walked her to the altar. Prince Akira proved to be exactly as tall as his delegation had suggested—nearly seven and a half feet of elegant height that completely dwarfed all three of them and made Mikasa feel like a child bride standing beside him. His face was kind but distant, his manner polite but formal. He spoke his vows in fluent but accented Paradisian, his voice deep and carrying, while she responded in the words she had memorized over the past weeks but didn't have a full grasp on the translation.

The ceremony incorporated both Paradis and Hizuru traditions, creating a strange hybrid of customs that satisfied political requirements while satisfying no one's personal preferences. Mikasa found herself going through the motions mechanically, her mind oddly detached from what was happening to her body.

This wasn't real. This couldn't be real. She was Mikasa Ackerman, soldier of the Survey Corps, protector of humanity. She wasn't a princess in a red silk kimono promising to honor and obey a foreign prince. This had to be some kind of elaborate dream or nightmare.

But the weight of the kimono was real. The sound of Prince Akira's voice speaking ancient vows was real. The tears in her friends' eyes as they watched from the front row were definitely real.

"You may kiss the bride," the officiant announced.

Akira leaned down—and down, and down—until his face was level with hers, yet she still had to crane her neck up so far the back of it ached. His lips were soft and warm, the kiss chaste and ceremonial. He tasted like the unfamiliar spices in the ceremonial wine and formal politeness. It was her fourth kiss ever. When he pulled back, his dark eyes held a flicker of something that might have been sympathy.

"Princess," he murmured, as if testing out her new title.

"Your Highness," she replied, the words feeling foreign on her tongue.

The reception that followed was a lavish affair held in Paradis's largest hall. Tables groaned under the weight of foods from both nations, and wine flowed freely as diplomats and soldiers mingled in an uneasy celebration. The Paradisians were being practically swallowed whole by the sea of giants, of human titans. Mikasa sat at the head table beside her new husband, picking at her food and trying to ignore the weight of curious stares.

"Are you well?" Akira asked quietly, leaning down so she could hear him over the din of conversation.

"I'm fine," she lied automatically.

He studied her for a moment, his expression thoughtful. "You seem... overwhelmed."

She wanted to laugh at the understatement. Overwhelmed didn't begin to cover what she was feeling. Trapped, terrified, grieving—those were closer to the truth.

"It's a lot to process," she said instead.

He nodded slowly. "I imagine it is. This arrangement is... unusual, even by royal standards. I want you to know that I don't take your sacrifice lightly."

The word 'sacrifice' made her wince, thinking back to her earlier conversation with her Captain. There was officially no turning back now. "It's not a sacrifice if it serves a greater purpose."

"Isn't it?" His dark eyes were surprisingly perceptive. "You're giving up everything you've ever known for people you've never met. If that's not sacrifice, I don't know what is."

She looked at him more carefully, trying to read the expression on his aristocratic features. He seemed genuine, which was somehow worse than if he had been cruel or dismissive. A cruel husband would have been easier to hate, easier to maintain emotional distance from. Kindness and understanding threatened to undo the careful walls she had built around her heart.

A cruel husband she would have no problem protecting herself from, a kind husband? Might just break her.

"The arrangement benefits both our nations," she said carefully. "It's a political alliance."

"Yes," he agreed. "But it's also a marriage. And you're clearly not happy about that fact."

His directness caught her off guard. She had expected formal politeness, diplomatic non-answers, the kind of careful dance of words she had grown accustomed to in military briefings. She hadn't expected honesty.

"Are you?" she asked quietly. "Happy about it, I mean."

He considered the question seriously. "I'm not unhappy," he said finally. "I was raised knowing I would marry for political reasons rather than personal preference. You're intelligent, beautiful, and from what I've been told, remarkably brave and talented. As political marriages go, I could have done far worse."

"That's reassuring," she said dryly.

A small smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. "I didn't mean to damn you with faint praise. What I meant is that I hope, in time, we might find genuine affection for each other. Respect, at minimum. Perhaps even friendship."

Friendship. The word hit her like a physical blow because it reminded her of what she was leaving behind. She looked across the hall to where her squad was seated, their faces carefully neutral but their eyes filled with pain. They looked incredibly small in this room full of Hizurans. Eren had refused to attend the reception entirely—a diplomatic slight that would probably have consequences later.

"I hope so too," she said quietly, though she wasn't sure she meant it.

The evening wore on with toasts and formal presentations, political speeches disguised as wedding wishes. Mikasa smiled and nodded at appropriate moments, her genuine discomfort aiding her as she played her role as the blushing bride, and tried not to think about what came next.

Because after the reception came the consummation ceremony.

As the evening drew to a close, servants began preparing the bridal chamber. It had been set up in Historia's castle. Mikasa felt her anxiety spike as she realized the moment she had been dreading was finally approaching. The silk kimono that had felt heavy before now felt suffocating, the elaborate hairstyle like a weight dragging her down.

"It's time," one of the Hizuru servants murmured respectfully.

Mikasa's squad had gathered around her for what they all knew might be their final private moment together. The goodbye hugs were fierce and desperate, filled with all the words they couldn't say in public.

"Write to us," Armin whispered against her ear. "Every week. Promise me."

"I promise," she whispered back.

"Be safe," Sasha said, her eyes bright with unshed tears. "Be happy if you can."

"We'll miss you," Connie added, his usual jokes nowhere to be found.

Jean simply held her tightly, his embrace speaking volumes about the feelings he had never quite managed to express. When he finally released her, his eyes were suspiciously bright.

At her request, none of them had mentioned what was about to happen immediately upon her entering the chamber.

Captain Levi was last. He pulled her aside, away from the others, his expression more serious than she had ever seen it.

"Remember who you are," he said quietly. "No matter what happens in that palace, no matter how they try to change you, no matter what they do to you, remember that you're Mikasa Ackerman first. Soldier, warrior, protector of humanity. Don't let them take that away from you."

"I won't," she promised, though she wasn't sure how she could keep such a vow.

"And if you ever need us—truly need us—send word. Politics be damned, we'll come for you."

The promise brought tears to her eyes that she quickly blinked away. "Thank you, Captain."

He nodded once, hugged her tight, then stepped back to allow the servants to escort her to the bridal chamber.

Just before they brought her to the chamber, the female servants took her to an adjacent room and put their hands up her skirts, fingers slick with something cold and slippery. Flushed and uncomfortable, she swallows her pride and lets them do it when they tell her it will help with the mechanics of the consummation.

The room had been prepared according to ancient tradition. Silk hangings in deep red and gold created an intimate space around the massive bed, and candles provided soft, flickering light. Incense burned in delicate braziers, filling the air with exotic scents that made Mikasa feel even more disconnected from her familiar world.

Most unsettling of all were the witnesses.

Three representatives from each nation stood along the walls, their faces carefully neutral as they prepared to observe the most intimate act of her life. Mikasa recognized the Hizuru ambassador among them, along with two other officials she had been introduced to during the negotiations. From Paradis, Commander Hanji stood with Commanders Nile and Pixis, all of them looking just as uncomfortable as she felt.

"This is barbaric," she thought, but kept her expression carefully blank.

Akira entered a few minutes later, having changed from his formal wedding robes into a simple silk robe that somehow made him look even taller and more intimidating. He moved with elegant grace, but Mikasa caught the slight tension in his shoulders that suggested he was no more comfortable with the situation than she was.

"Princess," he greeted her formally, then looked around at the witnesses with poorly concealed distaste. "Gentlemen, lady, let us proceed with dispatch. My wife deserves privacy for what should be an intimate moment between us."

Her Commanders politely turned their heads away, the Hizurans did not.

His wife. The words sent a chill through her because they made it real in a way the ceremony hadn't quite managed. She was his wife now, his property according to Hizuru law, his to do with as he pleased.

But his words also carried a note of protection, an acknowledgment of her dignity even in this degrading situation. It was a small comfort, but she clung to it desperately.

The servants helped her out of the elaborate kimono, layer after layer of silk falling away until she stood in only a thin silk shift that left little to the imagination. Akira shed his robe with efficient movements, revealing a body that was lean, crafted and well-muscled despite his scholarly appearance.

The size difference between them was even more pronounced without the concealing layers of formal clothing. Mikasa barely came up to his chest, and his hands looked large enough to span her waist entirely. The disparity made her feel vulnerable in a way that had nothing to do with nudity and everything to do with power dynamics.

"Are you ready?" Akira asked quietly, his voice pitched for her ears alone.

She nodded, not trusting her voice. Ready was hardly the word she would use, but she was as prepared as she could ever be for this moment.

He guided her to the bed with gentle hands, his touch careful and respectful despite the clinical nature of what they were about to do. The witnesses watched in silence as he helped her lie back, her legs hung off the side of the bed, feet on the floor. It would be easier this way, the bed was far too small to accomodate him comfortably. The witness's presence was a constant reminder that this was performance as much as consummation.

"I'll be as gentle as possible," he murmured, positioning himself above her.

Gentle did little to help when he was almost two feet taller than her with a cock as thick as her wrist.

She closed her eyes and tried to detach herself from what was happening, the way she had learned to do during particularly brutal training sessions. This was just another duty to endure, another sacrifice required for the greater good. The pain when he entered her was sharp - it ricocheted from her cunt to her hips to her joints where her legs were spread too wide, and she bit her lip to keep from crying out. Her commanders were right there, she couldn't give them a reason to think she couldn't do this.

She couldn't give them reasons to be worried.

The act itself was mercifully quick. Akira moved with efficient precision, his breathing carefully controlled, his movements designed to complete the necessary task with minimal discomfort for both of them. The slide inside her burned like an open wound. When their hips met, he bodily jostled her despite his slow and mechanical pace. When it was over, he withdrew immediately and helped her arrange the sheet to preserve what modesty she could manage.

"It is done," he announced to the witnesses, his voice carrying the authority of royal command. "You may record the consummation as witnessed and completed. You are dismissed."

The witnesses filed out with murmured congratulations and formal bows from the Hizurans - and looks of thinnly veiled guilt and pity from her Commanders; leaving Mikasa and Akira alone for the first time as husband and wife. The silence that followed was heavy with awkwardness and the weight of what had just transpired. She clutched the sheet tight around her body like she wanted a hug.

"I'm sorry," he said quietly, settling beside her on the bed but maintaining careful distance. "I know this was... difficult."

"It's done," she replied, her voice steadier than she felt. "It was necessary."

He studied her face in the candlelight, his expression thoughtful. "You're very brave, Princess. Braver than I think I would be in your situation."

"I'm not brave," she said automatically, internally recoiling at the title that felt foreign and wrong when in reference to her. "I'm just doing what needs to be done."

"Those are often the same thing."

She turned to look at him, trying to understand this man who was now her husband. He was handsome in an aristocratic way, with fine features and intelligent dark eyes. His manner was gentle and respectful, his voice cultured and well-educated. Under different circumstances, she might have found him attractive.

But these weren't different circumstances, and attraction was irrelevant when duty and politics governed every aspect of their relationship.

"We should rest," he said after a moment. "Tomorrow will be challenging as we prepare for the journey to Hizuru."

She nodded, though she doubted sleep would come easily. The bed was enormous by Paradis standards, but with his large size, it was barely big enough for their two bodies. Akira settled on his side, curled up with his back to her, a gesture of privacy that she appreciated more than she could express.

Mikasa lay staring at the cotton canopy above her, trying to process everything that had just happened to her. In the space of a single day, she had gone from soldier to princess, from free woman to political pawn, from Mikasa Ackerman to someone else entirely.

The woman in the red silk kimono felt like a stranger.

The woman who had just sacrificed her body to a foreign prince felt like someone from another world.

But the woman lying alone in the darkness, missing her friends and mourning her lost freedom, was still recognizably herself.

She clung to that identity desperately as sleep finally claimed her, knowing it might be the last piece of herself she would be allowed to keep.

-

The ship that would carry her to Hizuru was magnificent and terrifying in equal measure. Three times the size of any vessel Mikasa had ever seen, it rode the waves like a floating palace, its silk banners snapping in the ocean breeze. The Hizuru crew moved with practiced efficiency, their movements graceful despite their imposing size.

Standing on the dock in her traveling clothes—a modified version of Hizuru court dress that was still far more elaborate than anything she was accustomed to—Mikasa felt like she was preparing to sail off the edge of the world.

"Your belongings have been loaded in the royal cabin," one of the servants informed her respectfully. "Prince Akira is waiting aboard to escort you to your quarters."

Her belongings. The phrase was almost laughable. Everything she owned in the world fit into two small trunks—her few personal items, some books, the simple clothes she had worn as a soldier, her red scarf. The servants had looked almost confused by the meager collection, clearly expecting a princess to travel with far more elaborate possessions.

"This is it, then," Captain Levi said quietly, his hands clasped behind his back and eyes tight with an emotion she couldn't read off him as he watched the crew make final preparations.

"This is it," she agreed, her voice barely above a whisper.

Her squad had gathered to see her off, their faces carefully composed despite the emotion she could read in their eyes. The formal goodbye at the palace that morning had been conducted under the watchful eyes of diplomats and officials. This moment on the dock was their real farewell.

"Remember to write," Armin said, pressing a small package into her hands. "Letters from home, books, anything you need—just ask and we'll send it."

"And don't let them change you," Sasha added fiercely. "You're our Mikasa, no matter what fancy titles they give you."

Connie nodded emphatically. "If they try to make you act like some weak court lady, remind them that you could probably kill half their guards with your bare hands. You've killed titans before! You can definitely handle them."

Despite everything, Mikasa felt a small smile tug at her lips. "I'll try to remember that."

Jean stepped forward, his expression more serious than usual. "Take care of yourself, Mikasa. Really take care of yourself. Don't just survive—live."

The words hit her harder than she expected. Living and surviving weren't the same thing, though she had spent so many years focused on the latter that she had almost forgotten the difference.

"I'll try," she promised.

Historia's embrace was warm and lingering, filled with all the words they couldn't say in public. "You'll always have a home here," the young Queen whispered. "No matter what happens, no matter how long you're gone, Paradis will always be your home."

"Thank you," Mikasa whispered back, her throat tight with emotion.

Captain Levi was last, as always. His goodbye was characteristically brief but loaded with meaning.

"Stay sharp," he said simply. "Court politics are just another kind of battlefield."

"Yes, sir."

He studied her face for a long moment, then nodded once. "Good luck, Mikasa."

The sound of her given name instead of her rank or new title was a gift she would treasure. In Captain Levi's eyes, she was still the soldier he had trained, still the comrade he had fought beside. Whatever else she became in Hizuru, she would always be that person to him.

"Princess," Prince Akira's voice called from the gangplank. "We should depart soon to catch the favorable winds."

She looked up at him—and up, and up—noting the way he had to duck slightly under the ship's rigging despite being on the open deck. The reminder of his size sent an uncomfortable shiver through her. In a few hours, they would be alone together in the ship's cabin, beginning the long journey to his homeland and their new life together.

"I'm ready," she called back, though it was a lie.

The final goodbye hugs were quick and fierce, each one feeling like a small death. When she finally walked up the gangplank, her legs felt like lead weights. Each step took her further from everything she had ever known and closer to an uncertain future in a foreign land.

Akira waited for her at the top of the gangplank, offering his arm with formal courtesy. "Welcome aboard the Dragon's Pride, Princess. She's the finest ship in the Hizuru fleet."

"She's beautiful," Mikasa managed, though her voice sounded small and hollow to her own ears.

He guided her to the ship's rail where she could watch the dock as the crew prepared to cast off. Her friends stood in a tight group, their faces upturned as they watched her ship prepare to leave. The distance between them was already growing, but she could still make out their individual features.

"Are you well?" Akira asked quietly, his voice pitched low enough that the crew couldn't overhear.

"I'm fine," she said automatically, the lie coming as easily as breathing.

"You're allowed to be sad, you know," he said gently. "This is a significant transition. No one would expect you to be cheerful about leaving your family behind."

Family. The word hit her like a physical blow because it was exactly right. Her squad wasn't just her military unit or her friends—they were her family in every way that mattered. And she was sailing away from them, possibly forever.

"They'll be fine without me," she said, though the words felt like shards of glass in her throat.

"I'm sure they will be," Akira agreed. "But that doesn't make leaving them any easier."

She glanced at him, surprised by his perceptiveness. "You sound like you speak from experience."

"I do." His expression grew distant. "I left my younger sister behind when I was sent to the capital for my education. She was only eight, and I was her closest companion. I told myself she would be fine without me, that it was necessary for my future responsibilities. Both things were true, but they didn't make the separation any less painful."

"Do you regret it?"

"No," he said after a moment. "But I understand the cost of duty. Sometimes doing what's right requires sacrificing what we want most."

The ship's horn sounded, a deep note that seemed to reverberate through Mikasa's bones. The crew began casting off the mooring lines, their movements efficient and practiced. The gap between the ship and the dock began to widen, slowly at first, then with increasing speed as the current caught them.

Mikasa gripped the rail so tightly her knuckles went white, watching as her friends grew smaller and smaller in the distance. She could still see them waving, still make out the bright colors of their clothes, but the details were already beginning to blur.

"They're proud of you," Akira said quietly. "I could see it in their faces during the ceremony. They're heartbroken to lose you, but they're proud of the sacrifice you're making."

"I hope so," she whispered.

The harbor began to recede as the ship caught the wind and picked up speed. The familiar outline of Paradis Island grew smaller and hazier with each passing minute, until it was just a dark smudge on the horizon. When it finally disappeared entirely, Mikasa felt something inside her chest crack and break. It felt like her breath couldn't find home in her lungs.

"Come," Akira said gently, his hand light on her elbow. "Let me show you to our quarters. You should rest before dinner."

Their quarters. The reminder that they would be sharing a cabin for the duration of the voyage sent a spike of anxiety through her. She had grown accustomed to sleeping alone, to having private space where she could drop her guard and simply be herself. The mere thought of maintaining the facade of a dutiful wife every waking moment for the sake of making this alliance work was exhausting.

The royal cabin was luxurious beyond anything she had ever experienced. Rich tapestries covered the walls, and elaborate silk cushions were arranged around low tables in the Hizuru style. The bed was enormous, draped in silk hangings that could be drawn for privacy. Everything was designed to showcase wealth and status, from the gold-inlaid furniture to the rare carpets that covered every inch of the floor.

"I hope you find it comfortable," Akira said, watching her take in the opulent surroundings. "The voyage will take approximately two weeks, depending on weather conditions."

Two weeks. Fourteen days trapped on a ship with a husband she barely knew, surrounded by strangers who spoke a language she was only beginning to learn. The prospect made her stomach clench with anxiety.

"It's very nice," she said politely, though the luxury made her uncomfortable. She was accustomed to simplicity, to functionality over beauty. This level of opulence felt wasteful and ostentatious.

"I've arranged for language tutors to work with you during the voyage," Akira continued. "Court Hizuru is quite different from the dialect you've been learning, and you'll need to be fluent before we reach the capital."

Another reminder of how unprepared she was for the life that was awaiting her. "Thank you, Husband." She said, scrunching her nose at the taste of the word in her mouth. "That's very thoughtful."

"Just Akira is fine," he hesitated, "I've also had some books prepared about court customs and protocols. The imperial court has very specific expectations regarding behavior, dress, and social interactions. The more you understand before we arrive, the easier your transition will be."

Each item on his helpful list felt like another weight being added to her shoulders. Language lessons, etiquette training, protocol study—all designed to transform her from a Paradis soldier into a proper Hizuru princess. The process would be systematic and thorough, stripping and sanding away every rough edge she ever had until she fit smoothly and perfectly into the mold they had created long before her.

"I appreciate your consideration," she said around the panic in her throat, feeling anything but appreciative.

He studied her face for a moment, his expression thoughtful. "You're overwhelmed."

"I'm fine," she said automatically.

"Mikasa." The use of her given name made her look up in surprise. "You don't have to pretend with me. This is an enormous change, and you're handling it with remarkable grace. But you don't have to be perfect every moment. Not with me."

The kindness in his voice was almost harder to bear than cruelty would have been. His kindness threatened to crack the walls she had built around her heart to leave her vulnerable and exposed.

"I'm just tired," she said, which was at least partially true.

"Of course. Why don't you rest for a while? Dinner isn't for several hours, and you've had a very long day."

She nodded gratefully, suddenly desperate for solitude. "Thank you."

"I'll be on deck if you need anything," he said, moving toward the door. "Don't hesitate to ask if you require assistance with anything."

When the door closed behind him, Mikasa finally allowed herself to collapse. She sank onto the silk cushions surrounding the low table, her carefully maintained composure crumbling as the reality of her situation crashed over her.

She was alone.

For the first time in years, she was truly alone. No squad to keep her company, no mission to complete, no friends to protect. Just herself, trapped in a silk-lined cage, sailing toward a future she couldn't imagine and didn't want.

The tears came without warning, great heaving sobs that shook her entire body. She collapsed next to the low table and pressed her face into one of the silk cushions on the floor, muffling the sound of her breakdown. Everything she had held back during the wedding, during the goodbye, during the careful performance of dutiful acceptance came pouring out in a torrent of grief and fear.

She cried for the life she was leaving behind, for the friends she might never see again, for the freedom she had traded away. She cried for the girl she had been before politics and duty transformed her into someone else's property. She cried for all the dreams she had never allowed herself to have and now never would.

She hasn't cried this hard since Eren had emerged from the nape of a titan the first time.

When the tears finally stopped, she felt hollow and empty, like a shell of her former self. She lay on the silk cushions, staring at the ornate ceiling, and tried to imagine what her life would look like in two weeks' time.

A foreign court full of strangers who saw her as an outsider and a threat. A language she barely spoke, customs she didn't understand, expectations she couldn't meet. A husband who was kind but distant, a role that required her to be someone she had never been.

And through it all, the knowledge that she had chosen this. That she had walked into this cage willingly, locked the door behind her, and thrown away the key.

The sacrifice had been necessary. She still believed that.

But that didn't make it hurt any less.

-

The language lessons were brutal.

Mikasa had always been a quick learner, but Court Hizuran was unlike any language she had encountered. The formal dialect required precise tones and elaborate honorifics that changed based on social status, relationship, and context. A single mispronunciation could turn a respectful greeting into a mortal insult.

"Again," Master Yamamoto said patiently, his weathered face impassive as Mikasa struggled through another conjugation. "Remember, when addressing someone of higher rank, the verb ending must reflect both respect and humility."

She repeated the phrase, stumbling over the complex sounds. Even after a week of intensive study, the language felt foreign and clunky on her tongue, each word a reminder of how far she was from home.

"Better," the tutor acknowledged. "But you must practice the tones. In the imperial court, improper tone can be interpreted as disrespect or even challenge to authority."

Mikasa nodded, wiping sweat from her brow. The ship's cabin was stifling despite the ocean breeze, and the heavy silk robes she was required to wear made every movement a required effort. Even her leisure clothes were more elaborate than anything she had worn in her previous life.

"Perhaps we should review court protocols again," Master Yamamoto suggested, setting aside the language texts. "The imperial court has specific expectations for behavior during formal ceremonies."

The etiquette lessons were, if anything, worse than the language study. Everything had a ritual significance—how to walk, how to bow, how to arrange her hands when sitting. The depth of her bow had to be precisely calibrated based on the rank of the person she was greeting. Too shallow showed disrespect; too deep implied she was claiming lower status than appropriate for a princess.

"When entering the throne room, you must walk exactly seventeen steps before performing the first bow," Master Yamamoto explained, using a silk fan to illustrate the proper angle. "Your eyes must remain downcast until the Emperor acknowledges your presence."

"What if he doesn't acknowledge me?" Mikasa asked.

"Then you remain bowed until he does, regardless of how long it takes."

She had heard stories of courtiers remaining bowed for hours, waiting for imperial recognition that might never come. The thought of such deliberate humiliation made her jaw clench with anger.

"I can see you disapprove," Master Yamamoto observed. "But you must understand, Princess, that court protocol exists to maintain harmony and order. Everyone knowing their place and proper behavior prevents conflict and chaos."

"'Everyone knowing their place'," Mikasa repeated, unable to keep the flat bitterness from her voice. "And what exactly is my place, Master Yamamoto?"

The old tutor's expression grew carefully neutral. "You are the Prince's wife, and through him, a member of the imperial family. Your rank is significant, but you are also... new to court. It will take time for you to establish your position."

New to court. Foreign. Outsider. The words he didn't say hung in the air between the ones he did like a challenge. She might be a princess by marriage, but she would always be a girl from Paradis who had been traded for political advantage.

"I understand," she said quietly, seething inside.

"Good. Now, let us practice the tea ceremony. The Empress Mother is particularly fond of traditional observances, and you will likely be invited to participate soon after your arrival."

The tea ceremony was another exercise in precise ritual. Every movement had to be exact, every gesture weighted with meaning. The temperature of the water, the arrangement of the cups, the timing of each pour—all of it had to be perfect, or the entire ceremony would be considered a failure.

Mikasa's hands shook as she attempted to pour the tea with the proper degree of elegance. The silk sleeves of her practice robes kept getting in the way, and the elaborate hair ornaments made it difficult to judge the proper angle of her bow.

"Too rushed," Master Yamamoto corrected. "The ceremony is meditation, not mere preparation of beverage. Each movement should be deliberate and graceful."

She tried again, forcing herself to move slowly despite her growing frustration. The simple act of making tea had been transformed into an elaborate performance that took nearly an hour to complete properly. Captain Levi would have a fucking stroke.

"Better," the tutor acknowledged when she finally finished. "But you must practice until the movements become natural. Any hesitation or uncertainty will be noticed and commented upon."

Commented upon. Another reminder that she would be constantly watched and judged, that every mistake would be ammunition for her critics. The pressure was suffocating.

"I think that's enough for today," she said, setting down the tea implements with hands that trembled slightly.

Master Yamamoto bowed respectfully. "Of course, Princess. We will resume tomorrow with dance instruction."

Dance instruction. Another skill she would need to master before arriving at court. Mikasa had never danced in her life—soldiers didn't have time for such frivolities, and behind the walls there was rarely a good reason to dance—but apparently it was expected of noble ladies.

When the tutor left, Mikasa found herself alone in the cabin once again. Akira spent most of his time on deck or in meetings with the ship's captain, giving her space to study and adjust. At night, they had short and formal conversations before bed; seemingly unable to thaw the ice between them. She appreciated his consideration, but the solitude also left her too much time to think and she was starting to go crazy already.

She moved to the large windows that looked out over the endless ocean, watching the sun set in brilliant shades of gold and crimson. Somewhere beyond the horizon lay Paradis Island and everyone she had ever cared about. The distance between them grew larger with each passing hour, measured not just in miles but in the fundamental changes happening to her identity.

A soft knock interrupted her longing. "Come in."

Akira entered, ducking slightly to clear the doorframe. Even in the spacious royal cabin, his height made him seem too large for the space, a constant reminder of the physical disparity between them.

"How were the lessons today?" he asked, settling onto the silk cushions across from her to check on her. He had been doing this a few times a day. Asking questions about her lessons, if she was comfortable, if she needed anything. She was starting to consider filling the bathtub and drowning herself but knew if she did that the alliance would be effectively over. It might even cause Paradis to attempt a war they couldn't win with Hizuru if they even suspected foul play in her death.

"Challenging," she said honestly instead of saying I feel like pieces of me are already dying one word at a time. "I'm beginning to understand why you suggested I start learning before we arrived."

"Court life is... complex," he agreed. "But you're intelligent and determined. You'll adapt."

"What if I don't?" The question slipped out before she could stop it. "What if I can't learn to be the princess they expect?"

Akira was quiet for a long moment, his dark eyes studying her face. "Then we'll figure it out together," he said finally. "You're not alone in this, Mikasa. I know it feels that way, but you're not."

The kindness in his voice made her throat tight with emotion. "You barely know me."

"I know enough," he said quietly. "I know you're brave enough to fight titans then leave everything behind for people you love. I know you're strong enough to face an unknown future without flinching. I know you're kind enough to worry about disappointing people you've never met."

"Those might not be the qualities your family values in a princess."

"Then my family will have to adjust their expectations." There was steel in his voice that reminded her he was a prince, accustomed to having his will respected. "You are my wife, and I will not allow anyone to treat you with less than the respect you deserve."

His wife. Her stomach twisted with an emotion she couldn't tell was bad or good. "Even if I embarrass you? Even if I make mistakes that reflect poorly on your judgment?"

"Everyone makes mistakes," he said firmly. "The difference is that your mistakes will be scrutinized more closely because you're an outsider. But that doesn't make them more significant, just more visible."

An outsider. The word stung because it was true. No matter how well she learned the language or mastered the protocols, she would always be the foreign princess who had acquired rather than been born into her position.

"Tell me about your family," she said, desperate to change the subject from her own inadequacies.

Akira's expression grew complicated. "What would you like to know?"

"Will they welcome me? Resent me? Try to use me for their own purposes?"

"Probably all three, at different times and for different reasons." His honesty was refreshing, even if it wasn't reassuring. "My father, the current Emperor, sees you as a tool to legitimize my claim to the throne. The Azumabito bloodline is... significant to certain factions within the court."

"And your mother?"

"The Empress will be polite but distant. You represent a threat to the established order, a reminder that the imperial line might not continue unbroken as she had hoped."

"Your brothers? Your sister?"

"My eldest brother sees you as a political necessity that he disapproves of but can't oppose directly. My middle brother..." Akira paused, choosing his words carefully. "He may attempt to use your presence to advance his own position. Court politics are rarely straightforward." His expression took on a type of upset she couldn't identify. "My sister already lives with her betrothed. You won't get the chance to meet, I don't think."

The picture he painted was of a family divided by ambition and suspicion, where her arrival would upset delicate balances and create new tensions. She would be walking into a nest of vipers, expected to navigate complex relationships while learning an entirely new way of life.

"It sounds exhausting," she said honestly.

"It is," he agreed. "But it's also survivable, as long as you remember that everyone has their own agenda. Trust carefully, speak little, and observe everything."

"Is that how you've survived court life?"

"Among other strategies." He smiled slightly. "Having a reputation for scholarly pursuits helps. People tend to dismiss intellectuals as politically harmless."

She looked at him more carefully, noticing the intelligence in his dark eyes and the careful way he chose his words. Prince Akira was not the simple, kind man he appeared to be. He was a survivor who had learned to navigate dangerous waters by appearing less threatening than he actually was.

"What other strategies?" she asked.

"Patience," he said. "The court rewards those who can wait for the right moment rather than acting impulsively. Loyalty, carefully given and scrupulously maintained. And the ability to separate personal feelings from political necessity."

Separate personal feelings from political necessity. Another reminder that their marriage was a transaction, not a romance. Whatever kindness he showed her was filtered through the lens of political advantage.

"I should let you rest," he said, rising from the cushions. "Tomorrow's lessons will be demanding."

"Akira," she called as he reached the door. "Thank you. For being patient with me, for trying to prepare me. I know this isn't easy for you either."

He paused with his hand on the door handle. "We're partners in this, Mikasa. Whatever else happens, we're on the same side."

After he left, she sat alone again in the luxurious cabin, trying to process everything he had told her. The imperial court was a battlefield where weapons were words and armor was etiquette. She would be fighting for survival from the moment she arrived, with only her wits and her husband's guidance to protect her.

The thought should have terrified her.

Instead, for the first time since leaving Paradis, she felt something like determination stirring in her chest. She had survived titans and war, political machinations and personal betrayal. She could survive a royal court.

She would learn their language, master their customs, and play their games. She would be the princess they expected while keeping the soldier they didn't know about hidden beneath silk and ceremony.

And somehow, she would find a way to honor both the duty that had brought her here and the identity that made her who she was.

The ship sailed on through the night, carrying her toward an uncertain future and the beginning of a new, unfamiliar kind of war.

-

The first sight of Hizuru's capital port took Mikasa's breath away—and not in a pleasant way. The city stretched along the coastline like a massive dragon, its buildings rising in terraced layers from the harbor to the mountains beyond. Everything was enormous, from the towering pagodas that pierced the sky to the massive stone fortifications that protected the harbor. Even the other ships in port dwarfed the vessel that had brought her from Paradis.

"Welcome to the Jade Harbor," Akira said, joining her at the ship's rail. "The imperial capital lies another day's journey inland, but this is where we'll disembark."

Mikasa nodded, unable to find her voice. The sheer scale of everything made her feel like an insect. The buildings, the people moving along the docks, even the horses pulling cargo wagons—everything was sized for a population that averaged more than seven feet in height. She would be a dwarf among giants, constantly reminded of her foreign origins by her very stature.

"Are you ready?" Akira asked gently.

"As ready as I can be," she replied, though her voice shook slightly.

The disembarkation process was a spectacle in itself. A formal delegation had come to greet the returning prince and his new bride, complete with elaborate banners and ceremonial guards. Mikasa stood beside her husband as officials she didn't recognize offered formal congratulations in rapid Court Hizuru that she could barely follow.

The clothes she had thought were formal during the journey now seemed simple compared to what the delegation wore. Layer upon layer of silk in colors so vibrant they seemed to glow, elaborate headdresses that added inches to already impressive heights, jewelry that caught the light like starlight captured and held hostage. She felt drab and underdressed despite wearing her finest traveling gown.

"Your Highness honors us with your presence," one of the officials said in heavily accented Paradisian, bowing deeply to Mikasa. "The capital eagerly awaits your arrival."

"Thank you," she managed, hoping her pronunciation of the formal Hizuru response was correct.

The journey inland was conducted in a procession that belonged in a fairy tale. Mikasa rode in an elaborate palanquin carried by eight men, the silk curtains providing privacy while allowing her to observe the countryside through decorative screens. Everything she saw reinforced the same impression—this was a land of giants, where even the trees seemed to grow taller and the mountains reached higher into the sky.

"The imperial palace has been preparing for your arrival for weeks," Akira explained as they traveled. "There will be formal presentations, ceremonies of welcome, and introductions to the extended court. It will be... overwhelming."

That proved to be a massive understatement.

The Imperial Palace of Hizuru was not a building — it was a city unto itself. Massive walls enclosed acres of courtyards, gardens, and structures that rose like man-made mountains against the sky. The main palace was a architectural marvel of red pillars and golden roofs, its scale so grand that it seemed to have been built for gods rather than mortals.

Mikasa's palanquin was carried through gate after gate, each one more elaborate than the last, until they finally reached the inner courtyard where the formal welcome ceremony would take place. When the curtains were drawn back and she stepped out onto the polished stone, the first thing that struck her was how small she felt.

Everyone — and she meant everyone — towered over her. The shortest person in sight - a child! - was still nearly eight inches taller than she was, and most were approaching seven feet in height. Standing among them, she felt like a little who had wandered into an adult gathering by mistake.

The second thing that struck her was the quality of the stares. Curious, calculating, dismissive—every eye in the courtyard was fixed on her, measuring and evaluating. She could practically hear the thoughts: Too small. Too foreign. Too different. Would she be able to fulfill her duties? Could she even produce healthy heirs? Was she worth the political capital that had been spent acquiring her?

"Princess Mikasa," a voice announced in formal Court Hizuru. "Approach and be welcomed to the Imperial Court of Hizuru."

The Emperor himself stood on a raised dais at the far end of the courtyard, his presence commanding even at a distance. He was tall even by Hizuru standards, his elaborate robes adding to his already imposing figure. The golden crown on his head caught the sunlight like a miniature sun.

Mikasa began the long walk across the courtyard, following the protocol Master Yamamoto had drilled into her during the voyage. Seventeen steps before the first bow, eyes downcast until acknowledged, hands positioned precisely at her sides. The silk slippers she wore made almost no sound on the polished stone, but she felt as if each step was echoing through the vast space.

When she reached the proper distance, she performed the formal bow required for greeting the Emperor. The angle had to be exact—deep enough to show proper respect for his position, but not so deep as to suggest she was claiming lower status than appropriate for a princess.

"Rise, daughter-by-law," the Emperor commanded, his voice carrying easily across the courtyard.

She straightened carefully, finally allowing herself to look directly at her husband's father. His face was austere and calculating, his dark eyes missing nothing as they took in her appearance. There was no warmth in his expression, no welcome—only assessment.

"You are smaller than the reports suggested," he observed, his tone neutral but somehow making the words sound like criticism.

"I am honored by Your Imperial Majesty's attention," she replied in careful Court Hizuru, grateful that her voice remained steady.

"Indeed." His gaze moved over her like she was a piece of merchandise being evaluated. "The court has been... curious about Prince Akira's bride. Your reputation precedes you, Princess, though some question whether that reputation was... enhanced for political purposes."

The implication hit her like a slap right on her face. They thought Paradis had lied about her accomplishments, her abilities, possibly even her age. She knew the rumor mill had already been working, she heard them talking as she walked the halls already, spreading doubts about whether she was truly worthy of her position.

"I can only speak to my own experiences, Your Majesty," she said carefully. "I am what I am, nothing more or less."

"We shall see." The Emperor's attention shifted to his son. "Prince Akira, you will present your bride to the court tonight at the formal banquet. It will be an opportunity for... proper introductions."

"Of course, Father," Akira replied with a bow.

The formal welcome continued with introductions to various court officials, each one another reminder of her status as an outsider. Their names blurred together in a sea of elaborate titles …the crowd with poorly concealed curiosity. Some were polite but distant, others openly skeptical, and more than a few seemed amused by her presence in a way that made her blood boil. She felt like an exhibit, a curiosity from a forgotten corner of the world, rather than the respected princess she should've been.

"This way, Princess," a senior lady-in-waiting, Lady Ming, said, her voice like ice and her height truly imposing. She was easily a foot and a half taller than Mikasa, her severe expression and elaborate coiffure adding to her intimidating presence. "Your chambers have been prepared."

Mikasa nodded, offering a slight bow, and followed Lady Ming and her entourage through the sprawling palace. The sheer scale of the palace continued to overwhelm her. Corridors stretched seemingly for miles, she had to speed to keep up with the long strides of the other ladies, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant paintings depicting mythical creatures and imperial history. The ceilings soared high above, making her feel even smaller and more insignificant.

Their footsteps echoed on the polished floors, each sound amplifying the vast emptiness of the palace. Mikasa found herself constantly looking up, her neck aching from the strain. The furniture in the public areas was equally grand and disproportionate to her size. Chairs were so tall her feet dangled inches from the floor, and tables were so broad she could barely reach across them. It was a physical manifestation of her foreignness, a constant reminder that she didn't belong.

Her chambers, while luxurious, were no different. The bed was a monumental structure, its silk canopy reaching to a distant ceiling. The bathing tub was deep enough to drown in, and the vanity table was so high she had to stand on tiptoes to see her reflection properly. Everything felt designed for giants, emphasizing her own comparative smallness.

"These are your personal attendants," Lady Ming announced, gesturing to a line of young women who bowed in unison. "They will see to your every need. Remember your manners, Princess. And speak clearly. Our language is not so easily mastered."

The subtle jab at her struggle with Hizuru's complex language stung, but Mikasa forced herself to remain impassive. She was not a soldier now; she was a princess, and a princess did not react to veiled insults.

Later that evening, the formal banquet was an even greater ordeal. The grand dining hall was filled with hundreds of courtiers, their colorful silks, and elaborate jewelry, a dazzling display of wealth. The air hummed with hushed conversations and the clinking of porcelain. Mikasa sat beside Akira at a long, low table, trying to decipher the complex array of dishes laid out before them. She had no idea what most of the food was, and the sheer quantity was enough to feed a small army for weeks.

"Are you hungry?" Akira asked quietly, noticing her hesitation.

"I... I'm not sure what to eat," she confessed, feeling a blush creep up her neck.

He smiled faintly, a genuine expression that eased some of her tension. "Allow me." He used a pair of elaborate golden chopsticks to select a small portion of a savory-smelling dish and placed it on her plate. "This is roasted duck. It's excellent."

She tasted it, surprised by the rich, unfamiliar flavors. It was indeed excellent, but her anxiety stifled her appetite. Throughout the meal, Mikasa felt the weight of hundreds of eyes upon her. She could feel the whispers, even if she couldn't understand most of them.

"She's so small," she distinctly heard one woman murmur to her companion, in a tone that implied judgment. "Can she truly bear healthy heirs for the Prince? They say the Paradis people are prone to fragility."

"And her age," another voice added, closer this time. "Seventeen? She looks all of twelve. I even heard rumors she hasn't even had her first bleeding yet. How can she be ready to conceive?"

The rumors about her age and physiological development infuriated her. Mikasa had been fighting for her life since she was a child, enduring more hardship than these sheltered courtiers could ever imagine. Her body was a weapon, honed and strong, not a delicate vessel for producing heirs. But in this world, her physical prowess meant nothing compared to her perceived ability to bear children.

She clenched her hands under the table, forcing herself to maintain a placid expression. Akira seemed oblivious to the whispers, or perhaps he was simply accustomed to them. He engaged in polite conversation with the officials seated nearby, occasionally offering a quiet word of explanation to Mikasa in Paradisian.

After the banquet, there was a formal presentation of gifts, followed by a series of performances—dancers, musicians, and acrobats. The wealth was overwhelming, a stark contrast to the grim reality she had left behind on Paradis. Mikasa found herself feeling a strange mix of awe, bitter jealousy, and deep anxiety. This was her life now—a gilded cage, where every movement was scrutinized, every word weighed, and every private moment was potentially public.

She caught a glimpse of the Emperor, watching her from his throne with a subtle, unreadable expression. Was it approval? Disappointment? She couldn't tell. But the heavy expectation was palpable—the expectation that she would soon be pregnant, that she would fulfill her primary duty to Hizuru and produce an heir to legitimize Prince Akira's claim.

The thought made her stomach clench.

-

The consummation ceremony in the royal palace of Paradis had been one thing, a clinical, necessary act witnessed by officials. But the expectation of marital duties, twice a week, was a different kind of burden. The first time in the palace, after the grand welcome, was scheduled for the following evening. Mikasa dreaded it.

She was led to Akira's private chambers by a group of ladies that felt more like guards leading her to her prison cell. Or her execution. His space was even more lavish than her own, and more lived in. Incense filled the air, and soft lamplight cast long shadows across the silk-draped bed. On the large ornate desk in his rooms, she could see scrolls and other office supplies she recognized. Akira was already there, bathed and in a simple silk robe, his expression carefully neutral.

"Princess," he greeted her, bowing slightly.

"Your Highness," she replied, her voice stiff.

There were no witnesses this time, which was a small mercy. But the implicit weight of expectation was almost worse. This wasn't about a ceremonial act; it was about establishing the routine, and the constant reminder of her purpose.

Akira approached her, his gaze gentle. "You seem distressed."

"I am... unused to such traditions," she admitted, unable to look him in the eye. Unwilling to admit how scared she was to take his too-big cock into her too-small body again in order to conceive what will most likely aslo be a big baby now that she's actually thinking about the physics. She wills herself not to shake.

He nodded. "I understand. Our customs are... demanding. But I assure you, I will always endeavor to be respectful."

Respect was not what she was worried about here.

He helped her remove her robes, his large hands surprisingly deft. As the layers of silk fell away, the size difference between them became painfully obvious once again. Her shoulders barely reached his chest, and his bare arm looked massive next to her own. She felt exposed, not just physically, but emotionally. Her body, which had always been a source of strength and control, now felt small and vulnerable in his presence.

When they lay together on the vast bed, the disparity was even more pronounced. She felt swallowed by his size, smaller than she truly was, her small frame dwarfed by his broader shoulders and longer limbs. His body was warm and firm against hers, but it was an unfamiliar warmth, a foreign landscape.

"Are you comfortable?" he murmured, his voice low.

She nodded, though she wasn't. Comfort wasn't the goal here; duty was.

He was gentle, as he had promised. His movements were slow and deliberate as he coaxed pleasure from her with his hands and mouth, designed more for compliance with the expected duties and making them physically easier for her than for passion. When he entered her, it hurt no less than the first time. Mikasa focused on detaching herself, mentally retreating to a place where she could observe the act without truly participating. She thought of the cold, hard ground of refugee camps after the fall of Maria, the way the heat used to swelter on the training grounds in the summertime, the biting wind rushing past her as her horse ran on the battlefield, anything to anchor herself away from the unfamiliar intimacy.

But even through her detachment, the physical reality was inescapable. His weight on her felt immense, his presence overwhelming. She was keenly aware of every inch of difference, how easily he could engulf her. There was sharp pain as he entered her, a dull constant ache as he moved within her, but her face remained impassive. The size difference between them remained a constant source of anxiety for her. Even when he was being gentle, even when he was trying to be considerate, she was always aware of how easily he casually overpowered her, how fragile she felt beneath his much larger frame. It made every intimate moment feel precarious as well as painful, as if she was constantly on the verge of being accidentally crushed.

"Are you comfortable?" he would ask while moving inside her, his voice carefully controlled.

"Yes," she would lie, because what else could she say? That she felt like a doll being manipulated by a giant? That this physical act left her feeling more isolated and hopeless than ever?

When it was over, Akira moved off her, pulling the silk sheet carefully over them both. "Rest now, Mikasa," he said, using her name softly. "You have endured much today."

She lay still, listening to his even breathing beside her, and felt a profound sense of emptiness. She felt like a vessel, like her body was merely a means to an end. The physical act was less impactful than the constant awareness of her size, her perceived inadequacy, and the weight of the expectations that hinged on her womb.

Even so, she couldn't ignore the throb in her pelvis from accommodating a man nearly twice her physical size.

The routine continued, twice a week, as dictated by the court. Each time, Mikasa felt the same sense of detachment, the same unsettling awareness of their physical disparity. Akira remained unfailingly polite, gentle, and considerate, never pushing her beyond what was necessary. He treated her like the princess he made her, like a precious, delicate artifact, rather than a woman. It was a kindness, in a way, but it also reinforced the idea that she was something to be carefully handled, something not quite robust enough for the rigors of his world.

The continuing pain from their encounters sometimes made her feel like he was justified.

[sincerelywitch]

Video Analysis: “Culture Shock ?? Orang Jepang Pertama Kali Keliling Pasar Indonesia Banget!! ft. Turah” in Terms of Ethnocentrism

By Charissa, Rahmadian, Alvina Regita

This video features the experience of Tomohiro Yamashita, a Japanese YouTuber, as he explores a traditional market in Indonesia for the first time, accompanied by Turah, an Indonesian YouTuber. In this video, Tomohiro's interactions with the environment, sounds, smells, and objects in the Indonesian market provide numerous opportunities for observation, particularly regarding the ethnocentric attitudes embedded within them, both conscious and unconscious. This analysis will draw on the definition of ethnocentrism as the tendency to use one's own culture as the standard for evaluating other cultures, often leading to the belief that one's own culture is superior. In this article, we will delve deeper into cultural expressions and interactions that reflect ethnocentrism.

How Ethnocentrism is Analyzed in This Video:

Reaction to Physical Environment (Cleanliness/Sanitation & Organization):

Observation: Throughout the video, Tomohiro shows facial expressions that often indicate amazement or slight discomfort with the market conditions. For example, as he walks between the stalls, he notices puddles of water, garbage scattered in the market area, as well as the disorganized arrangement of goods compared to Japanese shops or markets which are known to be very neat and clean.

Analysis of Ethnocentrism: This reaction can be classified as ethnocentrism because Japanese culture teaches very high standards of cleanliness, so that what he sees in Indonesian markets is automatically judged based on those standards. In the video, although it is not explicitly stated as “our culture is better,” the surprised or disgusted attitude may indicate that he considers his cultural standards as a universal benchmark, which is related to behaviors and values.

Reaction to typical smells/odors from the market:

Observation: Traditional Indonesian markets have a unique combination of aromas from spices, fish, vegetables, and sometimes even trash. In the video, Tomohiro is shown showing uncomfortable expressions, frowning, or even covering his nose when passing by certain areas.

Ethnocentrism Analysis: If negative reactions to smells arise, this can be interpreted as ethnocentrism. Japanese environments, especially shopping areas, tend to be more sterile and have subtle scents or fragrances. For Tomohiro, “normal” or “acceptable” smells are those that he is familiar with from his culture. When he is confronted with an unfamiliar scent, his negative reaction shows that he judges the scent based on his own cultural norms, which may deem it less “clean”. This reflects how cultural symbols (in this case, olfactory sensations) are interpreted through one's own cultural filters.

Comments on Prices and Bargaining System:

Observation: Japan has a very patent pricing system and haggling is rare. If Tomohiro expresses shock at the “ very cheap” prices or if he is confronted with the bargaining process (if there is such a moment) and reacts with confusion or strangeness, this is an important point that falls under ethnocentrism.

Ethnocentrism Analysis: The comment about prices being “ very cheap” may reflect ethnocentrism in terms of economic standards. The high cost of living in Japan makes Indonesian prices seem very low to Tomohiro, so he implicitly uses the Japanese price scale as a benchmark. His surprise or discomfort with bargaining, which is a common behavior in Indonesian traditional markets, suggests that he is comparing this trading system with the more structured and fixed-price system in Japan. This is an example of how behaviors and values related to economics and transactions are judged based on one's own cultural norms.

Facial Expressions and Non-verbal Body Language:

Observation: If you pay attention, Tomohiro’s facial expressions show rounded eyes, raised eyebrows, forehead wrinkles, or an awkward smile. Those expressions show when he tries unfamiliar foods, touches items, or interacts with sellers who use different communication styles. He also gives body languages such as slightly backing away, keeping the distance, or hand gestures that show confusion are valid. 

Ethnocentrism Analysis: These non-verbal cues often reflect uneasiness or implicit judgement. For example, he expresses disgust when trying a food he has never eaten before, not only because the taste is different but also because he compares it with what is considered “acceptable” or “good” in his culture. It can also be interpreted as the discomfort with direct interaction with the sellers, who may be very expressive compared to the Japanese communication style which is more formal and less physical. This is a clear indication of the values and behaviors associated with social interactions. 

Implicit Comparison in Language Used:

Observation: Turah may be useful for translating or providing context, but take note how Tomohiro often accidentally starts the sentences with “di Jepang…,” or “kalau di Jepang kami…” Instead, he might ask about the things that are still related to Japanese traditions like “Apakah disini juga ada…”

Ethnocentrism Analysis: The application of language use that constantly compares what he saw and experienced in Japan is an indication of ethnocentrism. Even though his intention may be just to share or try to understand it, he unconsciously places Japanese culture as the main reference point. These statements or comparisons show how he interprets new situations he encounters using his culture as a reference, reinforcing the idea that his culture is the standard. 

Conclusion:

The simplest form of ethnocentrism can be shown through several things, such as reactions to the physical environment (e.g. cleanliness). The facial reaction shown when smelling an odor can also be a sign, such as when Tomohiro showed an uncomfortable expression in a market in Indonesia because of the combination of odors. The expression of surprise that Tomohiro showed when he saw the prices in the Indonesian market were very cheap and negotiable. This is different from the Japanese market which has a fixed price. A face that shows rounded eyes, raised eyebrows, forehead wrinkles, or an awkward smile that shows a non-verbal expression of discomfort. The use of language that continuously compares Indonesia with Japan is also an indication of ethnocentrism because Tomohiro places Japan as a reference.

[writingtips-resources]

Well- If you're writing about a character with burn scars, the details right matters alot.

Burn scars aren't just a visual trait; they come with physical, emotional, and social challenges that shape a person’s daily life.

If you want your portrayal to feel authentic, here are some things to consider.

First, burns vary in severity.

A first-degree burn, like a mild sunburn, won’t leave lasting scars.

Second-degree burns can, depending on depth and healing.

Third-degree burns, which destroy deeper layers of skin, almost always leave significant scars.

Fourth-degree burns extend to muscle and bone, often requiring surgeries like skin grafts.

If your character has major burn scars, they likely underwent medical treatments, faced mobility challenges, and had to manage long-term skin care.

Burn scars don’t just “heal and go away.” They can be tight, raised, discolored, and sometimes painful for years.

Hypertrophic scars stay within the original burn area and can feel thick and rigid.

Keloid scars go beyond the burn site and grow over time.

Contracture scars, common with deeper burns, can limit movement, especially if they form over joints.

If your character has scars on their hands, face, or neck, they might struggle with flexibility, facial expressions, or even simple tasks like gripping objects.

Healing Process

The healing process isn’t just about scars fading. Burn survivors often deal with chronic itching, sensitivity to heat and cold, and the need for moisturizers, compression garments, or silicone treatments.

Some undergo laser therapy or surgery to improve mobility or appearance, but complete "removal" is unrealistic.

Skin grafts can help, but they leave their own scars and don’t fully restore normal skin texture.

Socially, people with burn scars face reactions ranging from curiosity to outright rudeness. Strangers might stare or ask intrusive questions. Some assume scars are from accidents, self-harm, or abuse, making conversations awkward or painful. Others might offer unwanted advice—suggesting miracle creams or home remedies that don’t actually help.

If your character is self-conscious about their scars, they might cover up, avoid certain situations, or struggle with confidence. If they’re comfortable with them, they might develop a tough exterior, educate others, or challenge beauty standards.

Psychologically, burn survivors often deal with more than just physical recovery. Trauma, PTSD, body image struggles, or a changed sense of identity are common. Some people accept their scars as part of their journey, while others struggle with them for years.

Your character’s reaction depends on their, support system, and experiences.

If you want your portrayal to feel real, avoid clichés. Scars don’t have to define a character, but they do affect their life. They aren’t just a “tragic backstory” feature or something that instantly gives someone a hardened personality.

NOW, it's time to talk about sea salt water thing......

I resesrched alot but couldn't find a better answer other than this...

This is a big misconception

People say the minerals in seawater speed up recovery, smooth out scars, or even “fade” them over time.

No doubt, medical-grade saline solutions are used in hospitals for wound care but raw sea salt and ocean water aren’t the same.

The reality is "exposing burn scars to seawater can be risky".

The ocean isn’t sterile; it’s full of bacteria, pollutants, and irritants that can cause infections, especially if the skin is still healing.

Salt itself is also drying, which can make scar tissue feel tighter and more uncomfortable. Instead of soothing the skin, it often leads to irritation, redness, and even more itchiness.

A study conducted in Western Australia's Gascoyne region examined 28 patients with marine-associated wound infections. The findings revealed that 64.3% of these wounds were infected with Staphylococcus aureus, and 32.1% with Vibrio species. Notably, 39.3% of the infections were polymicrobial, involving multiple bacterial species. ( resource)

Some other myths

Some people believe scrubbing scars aggressively will “remove” them, but that just damages the skin further.

Others swear by home remedies like lemon juice, claiming it lightens scars, but all it does is cause stinging and potential burns from sun exposure.

Oils and herbal creams are often promoted as miracle cures, but most don’t penetrate deep enough to change scar tissue.

Remember that hydration and proper care can improve a scar’s appearance, no natural ingredient can erase one completely. The best approach isn’t following every home remedy suggestion—it’s understanding what actually works and what might make things worse.

So do your research too before using aby home remedy.

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[corvidcrybaby]

Hello! After scrolling your blog, I must say, you have a very unique and pretty art style, i absolutely adore it. You have fantastic art I must say. Any inspiration for it?

OMGGGGG this is such a sweet message to open up to, thank you for this compliment, I take it as a high honor to have people wonder about my inspirations hahaha

As for the big one, it's honestly the man himself, Hirano. There's just so much of his approach to art that I've been so taken with ever since I first discovered it. His rendering is utterly jaw-dropping, and his sense of unique style never fails to inspire me. I love how distinctive and evocative all his trademarks are - all the duster coats and the creative ways he uses them in his panel compositions, the iconic facial expressions (I especially love how he draws scared faces and the way he draws teeth on characters when they're in a predatory position in the story, human or vampire) and his methods of hatch shading and rendering. More than anything, though, I love his sense of posing and character design and how those interact. His art has such a striking marriage of those two things and the aforementioned panel composition. His art inspired me to try to understand anatomy better and the elements of character design that might allow me to one day compose something that has the sheer level of coolness that bleeds from every page of his art, especially the title pages. There's such aesthetic maximalism to all his characters. That, and I love his use of heavy lines, sharp, angular edges in his lineart, and just GAAAAHHHHH I love his art so damned much. It makes me turn to my own art and say "how can I make this cooler," and especially in the aspect of visual storytelling that one can accomplish with a character's design. I'm aimlessly rambling but this is really the biggest one.

Beyond this, I've drawn from a really random grab bag of interests. There are a handful of artists online throughout the years whose work I've really enjoyed and found evocative inspiration in. Back in my teenhood I was enamored with the Nuzlocke comic community, with entries like this one and especially this one and the artists respectively, and even attempted one of my own that is now lost to the sands of the internet's endless aether (but if I'm being honest, I'd probably be wildly embarrassed if somebody found those, hahaha). Beyond this, it's a hodgepodge of inspirations like graphic novels and video games I've been super into. Halo, Borderlands, Fallout and the like all get a nod here, in that order. Zemira herself is basically an ODST. I also tend to absorb elements from more cartoon-leaning elements that I really like from random artists that cross my dash. I'd also give a nod to the 2003 Star Wars: The Clone Wars series in terms of the way it exaggerates certain features for stylistic ease.

Thanks so much for the ask!!