#he has to visit his sexy little secretary <3

[missjashin]

Steve’s dad making him work at his company but starts regretting it rather fast because there’s this guy who keeps showing up and distracting Steve. He already made a big deal out of his son coming to finally work for him and this is how he is rewarded? Some boy in his ripped jeans and chains and with his long wild curls comes in and makes his son goddamn giggle.

And no one even knows how the guy gets in. The security guys have no idea where he comes from. Definitely not the front door, they would see him enter.. But without a doubt he will always appear at some point, chat up with his boy until he gets kicked out. And Steve refuses to tell anything about the guy, claims he doesn’t really know him.

[wannabegwenstacy]

Eden's Favorite Fic's (BTS Fic Recs)

Updated Version: Here!

Note: In the past I haven't indulged in tumblr fics often but I recently (past 3 months) have been reading quite regularly & am planning on branching out a bit. To keep track of the ones that I have enjoyed & the ones that I have even came back to I'm making this list. Again, I haven't been digging into the tumblr fics world for long so for right now its a very short list. I'm hoping with time I can get more fics of different types on here (btsxbts, some gender neutral xreader ones, & more ones that I genuinely like)

About me to understand what's going to be on here:

Age: 21 (99' liner)

Sexuality: Bisexual

Pronouns: She/Her

Ult Bias: Yoongi

Trio: Rap Line

I am OT7. I do enjoy smut but don't think it is necessary to FF. Overall I just want a well-crafted plot that makes sense. I read for entertainment & to escape. But I still need some form of realism (just me personally) to follow the trail of events. PSA: I'm trying to find a broader scope of writers I like but for right now I don't have many. There are gonna be some repetitive writers for now.

______________________________________________________________

Kim Namjoon:

- Librarian Namjoon Universe by @jungshookz

Beauty & the Bookworm (I love this concept SO MUCH)

Pairing: Cute, Good Boy, Nerdy, University Librarian Namjoon x Bratty, Semi-Popular, Procrastinator, University Student Reader

Word count: 20.8k

Summary: You're a procrastinator big time and you may or may not be failing. To get some extra credit you begrudgingly take the library assistant opening where you work under strict dorky Namjoon. Passive aggressiveness, cuteness, fluff, & some smuttiness arises.

Jealous-Boyfriend-Librarian Namjoon (Drabble)

Pairing: Jealous Boyfriend Librarian Namjoon x Oblivious Cute Girlfriend Uni Student Reader

Word count: 3.4k

Summary: You take an Art History Course and end up needing a tutor. Joon offers to tutor you but he doesn't know shit about Art History so you end up getting tutored by an ArtHoe Taehyung that may or may not like you but you are oblivious to this and Joon gets super jealous.

Kim Seokjin:

- Hockey Player Jin by @ve1vetyoongi

HEART OF GOLD (BLADES OF ICE)

Pairing: Sweet Hot New Hockey Player in Town Jin x Ex-Figure Skater (who has a history with jin) Reader

Word count: 20k

Summary: After a fall during figure skating practice dashes your dreams of competing at nationals, you vow to hang up your skates for good. That is until you cross paths with Kim Seokjin, captain of the ice hockey team, who is determined to get you back out on the rink and melt the ice in your heart. (Jimin is a bully in this and their other k-pop idols as characters. Very Very Fluffy and Hallmark Christmas Movie-ish so be aware of that. Overall, it's just cute :) )

Min Yoongi:

Note: these are all but one by the same writer @jungshookz & are written from the pov of a female reader. I'm gonna try to find some gender-neutral fics but for now, if you are female-identifying I really enjoyed these! :)

- Mechanic Yoongi Universe by @jungshookz

Baby, You Can Drive My Car (My favorite AU Fics I've read so far on Tumblr!!)

Pairing: Tatted, Mic Drop Era, Mechanic Min Yoongi x Spoiled Rich, Inexperienced, University Student Reader

Word count: 24.6k

Summary: Welcome to Min Mechanics - What can I do for you today, doll?

Maybe She Can Drive His Car

Pairing: Oblivious, Hot, Boyfriend, Mechanic Min Yoongi x Adorable, Spoiled, University Student, Jealous Girlfriend Reader

Word count: 11.6k

Summary: Yoongi's ex is back in town for a visit and you would be lying if you said you weren't slightly envious of a) how knowledgeable she is about stupid cars and b) how well she gets along with literally everyone.

- Uni Yoongi x Nerdy Reader (mini series) by @jungshookz

Note: these are all drabbles I'm gonna link my favorites in the series. I'll probably add more later.

Cocky Uni Student Yoongi x Nerdy Reader:

^^This is the start of the mini-series, recommend you read it first!^^

The One with the Scrunchie:

Contains: smut, a super cute scrunchie turning into a kink of sorts, slightly insecure Yoongi, experienced Yoongi, slightly inexperienced reader, shy about their own body reader.

Yoongi always had an Overactive Imagination:

Contains: talking about sex, implied smut, reader trying to be productive while also being horny, Yoongi being super distracted and horny.

"I'm gonna need you to shut up now please"

- CEO Yoongi Universe by @jungshookz

Suit&Tie (First Fic in the series)

Pairing: CEO Min Yoongi x Secretary Reader

Wordcount: 21k+

Summary: Young Intimidating Hot CEO Yoongi, Clumsy Secretary Y/N who loves Sugar, Best Friend Jimin. Funny Awkward Meeting that sets up the whole plot, was like reading a Kdrama in book form.

The One Where Augst D makes a Comeback (Favorite Fic in the series)

SPOILERS READ PRIOR DRABBLES TO CATCH UP!! (I recommend The First Date, The One Where Yoongi is Just a Little Jealous, The Proposal, The Wedding, Baby Makes Three, Baby Min's Timeline, The Birth of Baby Min, Daddy's Little Girl, Who the Hell is Augst D.

Pairing: CEO Min Yoongi x Secretary Reader

Word count: 6.5k

Summary: Yoongi finds out you faked an orgasm and he's going to gi-give it to you more ways than one.

- Demon Yoongi by @jungshookz

Hellish (I got some feelings for incubus Yoongi not gonna lie)

Pairing: Bratty, Super Sexy, Sex Demon, Mint Min Yoongi x University Student, Non-Supernatural Believer Reader

Word count: 22.1k

Summary: Jungkook is your clueless, energetic best friend. Wonho is a character in this fic, You are dragged into summoning a demon one night by your overly excited to be summoning a demon? best friend Jungkook. Spooky but Kind of Sexy Shit Happens! (This is probably my second favorite Yoongi Fic I've read!)

- Basketball Captain Yoongi by @jungshookz

Basketball Captain Yoongi

Pairing: Cocky, Popular, Charming Captain of the Basketball Team Min Yoongi x Water girl University Student Reader (who has been crushing on Yoongi hard for some time)

Word count: 18.4k

Summary: Jungkook is your athletic bro of a best friend that signs you up to be his replacement as the water boy (girl in this case) after he makes the team. You have had a pathetic schoolgirl crush on Yoongi for a while and is basically the only reason you agreed to be the water girl aside from spending time with Jungkook. It's fluffy & smutty!

- Android Yoongi @jungshookz

Technologically in love (..I cried! but I also smiled a lot so you know this is well written)

Pairing: Personal Assistant Prototype but SUPER Lifelike Android Min Yoongi x Messy, Junkfood, & Cartoons Loving Reader (basically your early 20s living alone kind of vibe)

Word count: 24k+

Summary: You live in a Detroit Becoming Human type universe but prior to a lot of the advancements. Androids are already a thing but not to the level the M1N Y00NG1 is yet. You are best friends with all the boys and they happen to be engineers which is how you ended up with Yoongi in the first place. Namjoon created Yoongi as a personal assistant prototype android & you are told to live with him. Things get fluffy, SUPER ANGSTY, and super smutty!

- Listen Closely by @avveh

Listen Closely ( sexiest Yoongi fic I have read so far, I kept wanting to go back and read again)

Pairing: Tsundere Office Worker Min Yoongi x Hardworking Office Worker Reader

Word count: 12.2k

Summary: Unintentionally, you stumble upon something that makes you view your coworker Min Yoongi in a whole new light. (SMUT 18+: Masturbation, voyeurism, exhibitionism, breathplay, spanking, degrading names.)

Jung Hoseok:

- Secret Boyfriend Hoseok by @kpopfanfictrash

Keeping a Secret (this took me places...Idk about you but I have trouble finding really good Hoseok fics and this one was perfect. One of my favorite fics on this website)

Pairing: New Relationship Dom Hoseok x New Relationship Tease Reader

Word count: 3.7k

Summary: You and Hoseok have been hooking up for a few weeks now. No one in your friend group knows. What happens then, when he shows up at movie night looking better than anticipated? SMUT!

- Studio Sex Hoseok by @joonbird

Studio:

Pairing: Boyfriend BTS Hoseok x Girlfriend Reader

Word Count: 5k

Summary: Hoseok is stressed about his upcoming mixtape, so you decide to swing by his studio and help him relax. (Hobi being the beautiful glorious sexy man he is and putting those ungodly hips to use!)

Park Jimin:

- Jimin and His Pregnancy Kink by @boymeetsweevil

ME, YOU, AND THIS THING WE HAVE BETWEEN US (NSFW)

Pairing: Sweet Caring Domestic but Horny Jimin x Pregnant Hormonal Reader

Word count:~3.7k

Warnings (aka what to prepare for): everything is graphic and gross lmao, blowjobs (face f*cking), boob job (not the one w/ silicon inserts), cunnilingus, dom!jimin if u squint, cumplay if u squint again, dirty talk/degrading language, penetrative sex (doggy style), unprotected sex, PREGNANCY KINK that’s a big one

Summary: You’re pregnant and Jimin is…happy about it (If I remember correctly this one is 25% cute domestic Jimin trying to calm his hormonal pregnant partner and 75% pure filth aka Jimin having a pregnancy kink and trying to hide it but not well at all. This is however my ultimate fav Jimin smut I have ever read!)

- Crush/Neighbor Jimin by @sketchguk

Lover to Lean On: (I absolutely adore this fic. Overall it's just really well written and I felt like I was watching a show in my head rather than reading a short Tumblr fic. Highly recommend it!)

Pairing: Cute Customer & Neighbor Jimin x Florist Reader

Word Count: 19.9k

Summary: For months, you can hear your no-face neighbor and his ‘girlfriend’ singing and dancing and laughing and falling in love. Above all, you can hear their bed banging against your shared wall, and they won’t ever let you sleep. You’d much rather stay up at night worrying about your own problems, like the weight of an unrequited crush, so of course, you’re bitterly single. But one day, the apartment is radio silent. And one day slowly turns into one week and then into an immeasurable amount of time since you’ve heard his laugh. So on Valentine’s Day, when you’re missing it the most, you beg your neighbor to open up to you with cookies in one hand and two broken hearts in the other.

Kim Taehyung:

-Roommate Taehyung Universe by @jungshookz

Stuck with You

Pairing: Frat Bro bit of an asshole Roommate Kim Taehyung x Clean Organized bit of a Pushover Reader

Word count: 37k

Summary: Kim Taehyung becoming your new roommate is definitely up there on the list of the worst things to ever happen to you. Librarian Namjoon is your Best friend and ex-roommate. Frat bro Jeon Jungkook makes an appearance. There is so smut and implied smut.

The One with the One Year Anniversary (Drabble)

Pairing: The cutest domestic boyfriend Kim Taehyung x girlfriend reader

Word count: 4.6k

Summary: NO SPOILERS! so I'm going to give you a quote: "well, um, look! I made breakfast for you. f-for us!" Also, SFW

Jeon Jungkook:

- Gamer Jungkook by @softyoongiionly

PRESS START (this is the cutest fucking smut type fic I have ever read! it is so pure and is the exact type of relationship I want! IT MADE ME SIMP SO HARD!) gender-neutral I believe!

Pairing: Night owl Gamer Domestic Boyfriend Jeon Jungkook x Witty Domestic Cutesy Relationship Reader

Word count: 5.5k

Summary: A night in with your boyfriend Jungkook includes all kinds of things: anime, witty banter, snacks from 7-Eleven and, you know, sex. (GREAT READ!! I AM A SIMP FOR THIS FIC!!)

[yutahoes]

Sakura

(Part Two)

One - Two

genre : Chaptered, Fluff

pairing : childhood friends: soccer player! Nakamoto Yuta x single mom! Reader (Y/N)

word count : 2.3k words

You’ll always be his Sakura.

taglist :  @ailoveyuta @loona-4-eva @aiforyuu @2-3-t-i @cosmiclatte28 @url-lindo-sexy @nuoyipeach @aaasteroidsky  @readers-posts @delightfultacobread @bby-kji9 @a-bts-world​ @mel-yjh​ @yeolsechanhun​ @yutazen01 ​

It was the summer before his third grade when his dad announced that they will be moving to Seoul because of a business opportunity. The then eight-year-old Yuta hated that he had to leave his friends just because he can't stay in Japan. He hated that he had to transfer schools and learn a new language. Why do they have to move to another country? Why not move to another city instead? 

When the teacher introduced him to the class of third graders, he just glared at his Korean classmates who were looking at him in wonder. He doesn't want to be friends with them. He doesn't want to talk. He doesn't want to learn a new language. He's Japanese, why would he speak Korean? The teacher told him - or at least that was what he understood - to sit on a vacant chair at the back of the class. His classmates were staring at him. He's the new guy, it's normal. But he hated the attention. 

It was lunch when he decided to eat on the school's rooftop. He wasn't surprised that it was locked but a girl was drawing on the door of the rooftop. Isn't she in his class? The girl seated in front of him? A crayon drawing of stick figures made him curious, what is that? 

A certain symbol caught his attention, a straight line with a beak-like image and wings at the end held by a stickman he believed is a girl because of the triangular picture below her body. "Sakura?" He asked and the girl jolted in surprise, quickly hiding what she was doing. "Cardcaptor Sakura?" 

The girl was wide-eyed, looked at her drawing then at him. He noticed how her eyes twinkle at that even if the area isn't well-lit. Or is it because she just cried? "You're that Japanese guy." She said in Korean and he only caught the words 'Japanese' and 'guy' so she's probably referring to him. "Do you know Cardcaptor Sakura?" He only nodded. It is a hit in Japan, everyone knows Sakura. "I like Cardcaptor Sakura!" She exclaimed with a bright smile. 

That was the first time he saw that girl who loves Sakura. The first classmate who talked to him as if they spoke the same language. He remembered handing her a comic of her favorite cartoons the next day and she introduced herself as Y/N, even asking him along the lines of 'Can you teach me Japanese?' and 'Do you want to be friends with me?' 

His initial plan of not knowing Korean or not talking to people backfired. He wanted to have a real conversation with this Sakura girl. His first Korean friend. 

Yuta would remember teaching her hiragana every lunchtime, on their own place by the door of the rooftop and she would teach him hangul in exchange. Before class, she would tell him stories about what happened to Sakura from the episode yesterday as if he didn't watch the same show. After class, they would spend some time in the playground waiting for her mom to pick her up. 

She was also the person who encouraged him to try out for the soccer team. Unlike in Japan, soccer isn't a required PE in Korea so his classmates were amazed that he knew how to play soccer, even defeating some older kids. "Yuta, sugoi!" She exclaimed that made him smile, a real genuine smile he never showed to everyone. "You're handsome when you smile. You should smile more often." It was her who made him smile more. Just because he wanted her to call him handsome once again. 

In fourth grade, the two were so close that she spent time in their home and him on hers. Sometimes she would even sleep at their place when her mom has to stay all night in the hospital. He found out that she doesn't have a dad, he left them when she's just a baby and that she would always cry in her sleep looking for her dad. Kids weren't very welcoming with the idea of a broken family either and he would often see her crying on the stairs to the rooftop. 

And now, she's the one who has children. A mom. He never imagined that he will see her as a mom in the future. He wondered if she still cries for her dad. He wonders if she still knew how to speak or write Japanese. He wonders if she could call him 'handsome' again. 

Yuta promised that he wouldn't stay that long in Korea, he wanted to leave as soon as the wedding was over and he had every reason why. But Mark Lee, his secretary, thinks that he needs to stay for a couple more days and think of it as a vacation before the big soccer leagues happen. 

"Your alma mater is inviting you to teach the soccer club," Mark noted as he stared at the email by the administration of his former elementary school. The place where he honed his soccer playing skills. 

The place where he met her. 

The younger guy was surprised when the soccer player agreed to the said invitation. Even forcing him to do it today before he changes his mind. Luckily, he doesn't have any schedules that day.

The school changed a lot. Well, it's been years since he last visited the place. A lot of buildings surrounded the soccer field and he watched how elementary kids played. They look so small or is it because he's used to watching the adults play? The principal greeted him and introduced him to the soccer coach who looked so cocky. But instead of heading to the soccer field, he asked the principal if he could look upstairs. 

His feet dragged him to the staircase to the rooftop. Their meeting place. The door changed color, erasing her drawing that they maintained for years. From the stick figures to an actual 2D drawing of Sakura and Syaoran. 

He wished he could just erase his memory of her as well. The same way as the drawings are erased. 

It was free period when he went down to the classrooms and saw little kids in the school's hallway. Are they this small? "It's because you don't have a dad." He heard a child say and saw that it's a huge kid, probably a third-grader, in his jersey. "The soccer team doesn't accept kids who don't have dads." Well, elementary didn't change. 

When his gaze caught the smaller boy he's talking to, a sudden feeling of recognition hit him. Jae. Y/N's son. "My dad lives abroad." He nodded, he's correct about that. 

"Dads should watch your soccer games." The older kid claimed, making Yuta shake his head. Are children’s behavior like this? Well, he really should refrain from making one of his own. "Accept it, Jae. You can never be good for the soccer team." 

"Yah!" Someone shouted from the side. "Stop bullying my brother." Yuta smiled as he watched the mini version of the girl occupying his mind shout at the bigger kids who were hurting her brother. She's totally different from her. "Did your dad teach you that?" 

The bigger kid only glared when the soccer coach called for him, and he quickly called him 'daddy'. So that is where his confidence came from. His gaze returned to the siblings, Jae was holding his sister's arm saying sorry that she had to get angry. Yuta smiled, that's their mom's attitude. Always apologetic. How can these two be a spitting image of her? Truly, they're her children. 

"Yuta Nakamoto," Jae called before he could flee the place. He greeted the young boy then smiled at the girl who was looking at him in curiosity. "I told you he's eomma's friend, noona. He knows my name." Yuta chuckled at that. He just met his youngest fanboy. 

The younger girl pulled her brother behind her that surprised Yuta. "Eomma said not to talk to strangers." The older smirked. She's really different from her mom. 

"Should we call your mom? Can you give me her number?" The girl shook her head and Yuta nodded, already texting Taeyong. He responded with her number and Yuta quickly called the said phone number, "Hi Y/N. It's Yuta." Both kids were staring at him, "I'm here in Jae's school. Can I bring them to the mall?" 

"Ahjusshi, can I see if it's my mom?" The girl asked and Yuta handed his phone to her. "Eomma?" The girl stared at him in wonder as she heard her mom's voice. "Then can we go with this ahjusshi?" She glared at him for a moment then nodded as if she’s talking to her mom. “She wants to talk to you.” 

“Yuta, you don’t have to do this if you’re busy.” But he wanted to. He wanted to spend time with them and learn about her as a mom. “Just message me where you are. I’ll pick them up.” He agreed. If only he could spend time with her as well. 

It was Jae who’s most excited when they reached the mall. The older girl stayed a few feet away from the two of them. Maybe she’s not interested. But really, she’s a tough nut to crack. He discovered that Jae wanted to play soccer but his mom doesn’t want him to, saying that he’s too young to play. So Yuta brought him to a shop where they sell sports shoes. “I’ll go talk to your mom. But for now, wear these soccer shoes,” he claimed while tying the younger boy’s shoelaces that made him beam. Jae hugged Yuta, thanking him for the shoes. “You’re welcome, bud.” 

Yuta realized that he didn’t know the older girl’s name. What was it? Did Y/N mention her name? To be safe, he just asked Jae about it. “Cherry,” he called then walked to where she was, staring at the skating shoes. “Do you want one?” She shook her head mumbling that their mom would get mad. “Besides, it’s not snowing.” He nodded. 

“We can go ice skating...” 

“You’re not my dad.” That made Yuta stop. Of course, he’s not. “Stop acting that you care about me or Jae. You’re just like the other guys.” Other guys? “You’ll leave me and Jae. You’ll leave eomma.” She’s a difficult nut to crack. 

Yet she’s so different when she’s next to her brother. The cold eyes were changed into warmness when her brother asked if they could play in the ball pit. She looked like a child, smiling at the younger as they bounced at the trampoline. She looks exactly like her. How can two children, both from the same parents, have so different personalities? 

He was just watching them, texting Y/N where he is, checking from time to time the two kids playing with the others in the ball pit area. "Hey," Y/N called, sitting beside Yuta on the mall bench. She smiled seeing the two playing. "Did they tire you?" 

Yuta laughed. "It's fine. They're cool." There was silence, a comfortable silence. It's awkward to see her now. A lot of things changed. "Jae has the same personality as you, that's cute." She giggled. "Cherry looks like you." 

Y/N nodded. "I'm glad she talks to you." 

"It was hard, honestly." He confessed and again, she giggled. That sound. He missed her laugh. "I think she wants to go figure skating." That surprised Y/N. "And Jae wants to play soccer."

"He's too young. He'll get hurt with the bigger kids." Yuta was about to revolt at that. "I remembered when you played with the bigger kids back in eighth grade." That was one of his worst plays ever. Until now, he can feel how hurt he is. 

She confessed that she doesn't know anything about sports that's why she's a little worried about sending her kids to the sports clinic that made him smile. She's such a mom. "I'll train Jae," Yuta announced that made her look at him. "I have to stay in Spain for two months for the league then I'll come back and teach Jae soccer." He explained. "I'll help Cherry too." 

"Yuta, you don't have to." 

"I want to." He held her hand. "Please." 

"Why are you holding hands?" Cherry asked that made Yuta let go of his hold on her. 

The older just gave her daughter a glare that made Yuta laugh. They look alike, the resemblance is too uncanny if you see them now yet they’re so different. “Eomma!” Jae called, reaching out to hug his mom. “I had fun today.” And she smiled at him. “Yuta samchon is so cool.” 

“He bought you shoes?” She asked, checking the new kicks on her son’s feet. Jae claimed that he also bought Cherry one that made the older girl glare at Yuta. “Did you say thank you?” Both nodded. 

Yuta smiled at them. They do look like a happy family. “I’ll get going. I’ll see you when I get back from Spain.” Y/N nodded. Yuta asked for a hug and Jae was the only one who’s ecstatic to hug him. Cherry rolled her eyes that made the older guy laugh. As expected. “Come on, Y/N, a hug.” He said, hands extended for the older girl. 

The girl giggled before giving him a tight hug. His hand rested on her back then the other on the back of her head, caressing her hair. “You’re doing a great job being a mom, Sakura.” 

She laughed before muttering the words, “I’m proud of you, Syaoran.” 

Watching the three of them head to a different way opposite him, he wished he would have another chance to bond with them. He would love to be with them. Maybe having children isn’t too bad. 

🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸

Three

[girllovescomic]

Winter Begonia episode 3

This episode opens with the audience waiting on our little divo.  Minister Jin asks Boss Niu whether SXR has found a replacement for the violinist.  If not, he will make good on his threat. Weasel Dengbao repeats what Minister Jin said to his dad, like the man was not sitting right next to the corrupt politician.  The father replies if that is not exactly what he wants, to which Asian Crispin Glover bemoans that he is not that cruel. 

Meanwhile, Fan Lian acting like the typical fan wants to know what to know what SXR will be playing.  CFT like the good boyfriend he will become says that whatever his bae plays will be excellent.  Can I have my own Er Ye?  

Our pouty lips divo finally arrives on stage holding a Chinese violin.  Everyone is intrigued, wondering if he can actually play the instrument.  Daddy weasel Jiang explains that it takes hundred days to learn the dizi, a type of Chinese bamboo flute, a thousand days to learn the xiao (Chinese vertical flute) and ten years to be experienced enough to play the huqin/Chinese violin.  I guess all these instruments are used in the opera.  This worries Niu Bao Lan who clearly cares for our lil penguin. 

But no worries, our boy is a musical genius and he showcases it by playing the violin expertly, much to the dismay of the Jiang pair.  Fan Lian is obviously amazed by how talent his idol is, while CFT is all smiles and heart eyes.  Like bro, can you be more obvious in your fawning over your crush? He confirms what SXR had told him about being a hero.

Looking at his bae with open admiration.  Xirui share the wealth, sis!

Dengbao is clearly not happy that SXR will now be even more popular because of his prowess, but daddy tells him not to fly the white flag just yet.  SXR must have a weakness and they will find a way to exploit it. 

 Indeed, they find a way to manipulate SXR’s self-righteousness and stubbornness by loudly giving away the slush fund to Minister Jin’s secretary.  

It is obviously a trap to push the impetuous young man to make a major faux pas. Just as Daddy Jiang predicted, SXR decides to go back to the stage and sing an opera, as a laosheng (an older male role, something he hasn’t done in a while) about a corrupt Ming Dynasty minister who stole money from the empire. 

The crowd is clued in of the opera’s implication, including Fan Lian.  CFT, the opera novice, meanwhile is unaware of it and even claps thinking it is just a good performance.  When Fan Lian explains it to him, he even more impressed at how gutsy his crush is.

Hero gaze activated.  Anyone who touches bae will get the beating of his life.  I swear his attention perks up whenever someone threatens his lil penguin!

Minister Jin tells his secretary to send some guys after SXR.. Our little divo is no slouch in the martial arts department and is able to escape.  His dashing hero is waiting for him in the car and invites him to hop in.  

Minister Jin is surprised that SXR was able to slip through his fingers, but decides to not pursue him all the way to the opera house, not wanting to waste time on someone so insignificant.  Oh boy, if you only knew who is future boyfriend was!  Talking about boyfriend, CFT praises his lil divo’s martial arts skills; of course, SXR boasts that he is skilled in both singing and kung fu, without a hint of humility.  CFT asks if his little act was to his satisfaction and of course, Xirui answers in the affirmative.  CFT lets him know that his act will have consequences since he drew the ire of a powerful man by exposing his bad deeds and this matter will not be let go.  Xirui asks CFT what he should in that case.  CFT tells him he cannot do it alone, he will need help and then explains why Minister Jin tried to embezzled the money.  Apparently it is not really about the money, but about securing his position in Beiping against the juggernaut that is Commander Cao.  Unfortunately this flies over Xirui’s head who is probably looking at Er Ye’s beautiful profile and thinking of a few operas he wants to sing for him. Or how lucky he has found such a sexy daddy. Oh, I wish I was in your place sweetie. CFT promises he will take care of the situation for him and offers food, which he seems to know it’s something his crush understands. Then they gaze into each other’s eyes with Er Ye smiling softly and holy shit, like the gaze actually last more than a second! How this past censorship, I will never know.   

Xan Er Ye gaze at me like that too

We see Minister Jin acting like the pompous ass he is, walking down the street with his loot.  Someone shoots at his hat, creating a diversion to take said loot, which he realizes too late. 

Ohh so that is CFT’s plan, as we see his crew bring back the money.  He tells them to send it to the anti-Japanese coalition. This little act sinks Minister Jin who is accused of corruption and loses his fight against Commander Cao without the latter raising a finger.  

This obviously does not sit well with weasel Dengbao who complains, like the little bish he is, to his father.  Apparently, Xirui found another opera house to perform; it’s a popular house that has hosted many big opera performers (jue’er). His father tells him that they may not have to lift a finger, others will do the heavy lifting for them in dealing with Xirui.  He lets him on a secret about the so-called bad blood between Commander Cao and Xirui back when they were in Pingyang.   

Weasel Cao decides they need to spill the tea about the situation 

The next day, Xirui and his troupe come into the opera house and find Dengbao’s troupe, Longchun Troupe, in their space and the cattiness ensues.  I swear, it feels like watching the backstage of a theater or Hollywood, where rival actors get in each others’ faces for some primetime. 

Dengbao sneers, telling Xirui the opera house is now his territory. Whatever Asian Mr. World. There’s a staredown which is interrupted by the opera house manager.  

SXR demands an explanation for basically reneging on their agreement. The manager tells them he has his reasons for doing so, but if they want to perform they can take the morning spot, which is basically relegating a rising star, like Beyonce, to be the opening act instead of the primetime act, which is a major downgrade.

  Not only that, but it will be doing so until another performer, who is currently sick, returns.  Best girl Xiao Lai tells SXR to find another spot to perform, offended by the obvious downgrade.  

The manager lets them know that other houses will probably turn them down. It turns out that removing Minister Jin in favor of Commander Cao has made his previous encounter with the warlord resurface and no one wants to deal with this hot mess, in fear they will draw the wrath of Beijing’s new boss.  SXR looks at Dengbao and I believe he realizes this was his doing.

He discusses the matter with sexy crush while eating a steak like a country girl at a fancy debutante ball.  He tells CFT that the gossip is blown out of proportion; he doesn’t really have any feud with the commander. It turns out the commander wanted to keep the troupe as its personal entertainment, which goes against SXR wish of performing on stage. After all, the stage is everything for him.  He refused to continue singing, which led the commander to threaten him with a gun.  Our little divo showed his backbone, not flinching a tiny bit while feeling the cold barrel pressed against his head. . Xirui tells CFT that all the other things are unfounded gossips, there is nothing more between them.  A sidenote, in the novel, SXR was actually Commander Cao’s boy toy, which drew Meixin’s jealousy, forcing SXR to hide in his room to avoid her. He left for the same reason. Like a good boyfriend, CFT shows his understanding of the situation, replying that no one else was there so people ran with the gossip.  Xirui sees the people who believes the rumors as brainless, and I have to agree with him on this.  Even in modern time, people will believe whatever they want to believe about celebrities without using logic.

Can we take time to see how beautiful Yin Zheng look here?

Sexy CFT agrees and even brings up the fact that if the rumors were true, SXR would have been six feet under.  He knows his BIL very well.  Unfortunately, this does not change the fact that people will believe the gossip especially if the parties involved do not clarify the situation. CFT offers to remedy the situation by inviting SXR to sing at his son’s first birthday, where the commander will also be in attendance to celebrate his political win. SXR is honored to come sing for the Little Master and would have done so even without the added benefit.

We see two people walking and I smell trouble. The woman seems taken by the environment surrounding her, as if it is the first time she sees such luxury. Her husband is very sweet and soft-spoken and you can tell he is very much caring towards her. They are even holding hands like a pair of teenage lovers. Hmmm...could this provide a parallel between CFT and his wife?

Fan Lian greets them and we find out it’s the rumored couple mentioned in the gossip about SXR when he was still in Pingyang. The woman is Jiang Menping, Xirui’s former senior sister and her husband, Chang Zhixin, is Fan Lian and Er Nainai’s cousin. They have come to Beijing because the cousin works in government. Apparently the mention of Shuiyun is persona non grata around Meiping. She looks a shy and pensive woman, a complete contrast to the childlike and wild SXR.

They come to visit Er Nainai and CZX is taken by Er Nainai’s son, doting on him, which seems to sadden Meiping.  Er Nainai, after chatting incessantly about it until she notices Menping’s sad gaze. We learn she has been trying to get pregnant but her body is unhealthy or unable to produce children.  CZX showcases how much of a doting husband he is, stating that he actually does not like kids at all, which is a sweet lie.  He only wants her, nothing else.  Sigh...will I ever find someone like this.  

I digress...He adds that since he comes from a large family and had to deal with a lot of crying brats, he has grown to dislike kids.  You can tell he is saying this to make her feel good and she knows, but she is grateful and bask in his love. Er Nainai notices the sweet moment and you can tell she wishes that Er Ye was that loving. 

She gives Menping a pair of earrings as a wedding gift, which she could not attend.  Menping feels the jewelry is too luxurious, which makes me think they are a frugal type couple, despite the high level job he has and his aristocratic background. Er Nainai apologizes for her faux pas earlier, which Menping assures her it is okay.  CZX cannot stay a few moments away from his wife, acting all anxious as if she had disappeared.  She reminds him that it has only been 30 minutes, but in his mind, it felt like a day. I may get diabetes from all that sweetness. He quickly notices the earrings.  He tells Er Nainai that he notices everything about Menping, down to the details like new earrings. Oooh, the look of envy is all over Er Nainai’s face.

Is he for real??

We see Er Nainai trying out new earrings, obviously in the hopes that dashing CFT will notice.  Oh sis, your relationship is not the same as your cousin.  CFT comes in and thrown himself on the bed, fully clothed.  He looks like he had a full day. She helps him out of his jacket and tries to draw his attention to the earrings. Oh sis, i am telling you that you are wasting your time.  His heart eyes are not for you. He jokes that she looks chubbier (BRO!) and she pushes him back on the bed.  He wants to know what has gotten in her to make her irritated towards him. She pouts and walks back to her dresser, obviously disappointed that he did not notice the minute change. 

BRO! The last thing a woman wants to hear!

He’s like, okay fine, I am going to wash up, but by the way, next week is our son’s first birthday, so take care of the preparation, especially since my BIL will be coming for his big celebration. As he walks away, she mutters that she’s no better than a servant and takes off the earrings.

It’s the day of the Little Master’s birthday and Meixin is acting like a good hostess, guiding the servants and being the mistress of the house.  Apparently, Er Nainai is still pouting in her room.  One of the servants inform her the opera troupe is here and it is obvious that she has no idea who it is. By the way, let me pause again and talk about the fashion. Meixin’s dress and the mink she wears is gorgeous.  Good lord the details in this show!!!  Ok, so back to the program, she tells the servant to warn the maids not to go near the performers, again highlighting the prejudice carried against the performers, who were lower than even prostitutes.  Sigh, hierarchical societies are bleh. 

Meixin inquires about Er Nainai and right on cue, we see her, gazing into space, clearly still not over the fact that her husband does not pay full attention to her. Gurl, your marriage cannot be compared to that of your cousin! He married for love, while your husband married you for convenience.  Even if you are in love with him, the same cannot be said about him! He still showers you with affection and care, some people cannot even find that! 

Ugh, Meixin barges in and they have a little sister chat about the birds and the bees, the difference between men and women when it comes to love. Meixin wonders if she has a fever or something, and Er Nainai explains that she read an opera script (really sis?!) that claims if a woman has never or be loved, is she living in vain and I am sitting here, looking at myself, feeling forever alone... 

Sis, way to twist the knife in my wound

Meixin dismiss this nonsense, telling that most opera scripts are fake to fool young girls (that sounds familiar) and that as an housewife, she has obligations to fulfill. Er Nainai insists the stories are real and brings up the real reason why she feels out of sorts. 

 Meixin is like, the hell girl, why are you bringing this nonsense up? Did my brother offend you or something? Er Nainai says no, but she feels Fengtai is not like other men, which Meixin tells her it’s a good thing. 

 Every men are not supposed to be the same and Er Nainai acts like she’s a little girl. Meixin explains that some men are verbose with their love, while others carried in their hearts.  There are other men who sleeps around (hmmm is this a reference to novel Fengtai?) while others simply do not understand romance.

She thinks Fengtai is of the latter (maybe because he has not found the person to display his love to). Meixin reminds her of the type of man her brother is, someone who is bright and sensible, and she should be happy to have someone like this as a husband, instead of a gruff like Commander Cao.  No truer words spoken, sis!

Oh SIS! I hope you never see your husband’s face when he looks at his chubby cheeks bae.  You might be too mad to see such obvious display of adoration

Meanwhile Hot daddy CFT struts his stuff into the banquet area of his house, schmoozing to his guests.  Mr Hao Lan, who I believe is the head servant of the household, urges him to go outside and wait to greet the Commander. CFT tells him not to fret, the man of the hour will probably fashionably late. 

His mind quickly shifts to his bae and he inquires about the troupe.  As soon as he finds out there are already in his home, he goes out to check. Oh boy, the man is enamored, completely unaware that his wife is having a heart-to-heart about their relationship. 

He hears some of the singers fighting with their troupe leader, irritating Shang Lao Ban so much, he storms out. As soon as Xirui sees CFT, he is all smiles while CFT gives him his soft gaze that shows all the affection he has for our adorable divo.  Oh, if Er Nainai had seen this, she would have blown a casket.

If I could find a man who looks at me like Er Ye looks at Xirui

He claims to come and get a look at his bae check the preparations, wondering if it was bad time since he overheard the arguing. Sis, you are here to gaze at your crush

 SXR chuckles, dismissing the silly fight.  Er Ye tells him that he has hired photographers and reporters to help with dismissing the rumors. The headline, according to him will read “Shang Xirui’s beautiful voice caused Commander Cao to light up and smile”. Geez can I get a hype man like this? SXR is grateful at all the support CFT provided and wonders how he is going to repay him.

Sigh...

Right at this moment, the man of the hour arrives with all the pomp.  Lao Han rush CFT to the front door to greet the Commander. CFT reminds SXR that the rest is up to him to either fail or succeed in dispeling the rumors. SXR tells him not to worry and CFT replies with another one of his killer smiles. He runs to the door as Commander Cao steps out of the car. BIL tells him that he saw him running to greet him instead of waiting for him, all in jest.  

They clearly have a good relationship. CFT even jest that he doesn’t have another elder sister to give away for marriage when Commander Cao brings out all the gifts. Not to be outdone in the hilarious department, Cao tells him about the gift he brought to his little nephew and I swear I am endeared by the gruff old man when he describes the noise made by the toy train.  

Fan Lian is acting like the young master of the house, walking aimlessly towards the kitchen where he finds his cousins helping out. He’s like, what the hell are you guys doing? You are guests, not helpers! He tells them to go change and attend the banquet, hoping CXZ could rub shoulders with Old Cao for his career, but CXZ sounds like an honest politician.  

Commander Cao and Fengtai are jesting again, and you really feel their relationship is not based on hierarchy, but one of affection.  I think this is the first time I see a Republican Era drama that shows a warlord’s softer side.  Is this show for real???? They are discussing the tense relationship between his son, Cao Guixi who is also a top member of the army, and him.  Lol, he even calls him a son of a bitch, which makes CFT spit out the hazelnut out of his mouth. Apparently, the son is being ungrateful after his father gave him a golden ticket by sending him abroad, but he is turning out to be rebellious, even hanging out with sketchy people. 

Unfortunately for the Commander, since it’s his only heir, he can’t do much to suppress the young master. 

Oh, is the young master cause problem later?

Fengtai suggests that Commander impregnates his sister so she can give him another heir (no worries, this is said in jest) and he can shoot the current heir.  Fengtai asks why the Commander is so sweet with him (hmm because you are so damn charming, who can resist you?) while so stern with his son. The Commander does not want to talk his son because the latter infuriates him.  He then calls Fengtai using a feminized version of his name (Feng’er), which shows the kind of affection they have between each other.  Awww...Fengtai playfully acts embarrassed, which only prompts the Commander to yell out the girly nickname. LOL, I cannot! 

He then tells the Commander that he has brought Shang Xirui to perform for him, but if this offends him, he will send the troupe back.  He informs him of the situation the opera singer has found himself because of their nebulous past, but it seems, based on the Commander’s reaction, to be water under the bridge.  The Commander finds the gossip silly since he does not consider the lil divo as a worthy enemy.  Relieved, CFT tells him that he will make SXR sing a great piece for him and even apologizes, but the Commander knows the lil divo is a stubborn child who does not bend over for anyone.  The Commander requests a popular Shaanxi Opera called Qinqiang (I may actually make a post about the different operas). CFT orders the manager to inform SXR of the request.

SXR is not too happy about the sudden change, since he doesn’t have the right costume and makeup to perform this opera.  Oof, any creatives reading this will understand his fretting. We like to be perfect when we deliver our art and any last minute inconvenience can throw a major wrench in our delivery. 

Manager Han tells him it was a request from the Commander himself, so basically he has no choice. Despite having a well-know stubborn personality, SXR acquiesces, but he is not happy about it.  He knows he has no choice but to please the Commander since his future depends on it Even his troupe member comments at this overbearing commander’s unfair request.  SXR asks Xiao Lai if he should perform without all of his accoutrement, which best girl agrees. 

He is going to need far more food than the dainty offering from la casa de Cheng.  

She goes out to get something heavier, while Manager Han catches up with Meixin to let her know that her hubby is here.  She spots Xiao Lai and you know trouble is a-brewing.  She asks who that girl is as she looks familiar and learns which opera troupe was invite.  Realizing the impending trouble since Er Nainai’s cousins are also attending the banquet, she ask the manager to quickly fix this messy situation.

Ooph, there are so many good moments in this episode, especially with SXR calling out the minister for embezzlement, showing CFT that despite being a dan, he is no damsel.  We find out that he has martial art skills, which will probably be handy in later episodes.  We also finally get a chance to see the Commander and more family dynamics on CFT sides.  His relationship with this BIL is quite interesting and despite the obvious difference in status, they are quite affectionate with each other.  I feel like I am watching a more Westernized relationship than a typical Asian one.  Additionally, we get to see the much talked about Jiang Menping and her husband.  Their relationship is again a very Westernized lovey-dovey relationship, that of love, not one of arranged marriage, which contrast immensely to Fengtai-Er Nainai’s relationship.  This makes Er Nainai yearns for such devotion from her husband, which we know she will not get since a lil divo has bursted into the scene and crept up inside CFT’s heart.  I feel for her, you can tell she has love for her husband, but she is equally naive when it comes to relationship and how to deal with men in general.  She is after all a very conservative woman, who unlike her well-cultured husband, represents the vestiges of a fallen dynasty and society, that is still trying to hang on desperately.  I sense trouble brewing between Xirui, the cousins and Commander Cao

[taetaesource]

Behind the Scene

Chapter 1

Taehyung and you fell in love at first sight but he had a dark and dangerous business which he could not let you know. He rounded up his 7 friends to keep his secret from you and told his best friend to protect you at all cost. 

"Settle him. Tonight. I want the deal to be confirmed tomorrow. No loose ends. I want this to be clean." Taehyung breathed into the phone. His voice was sharp and cold, trying hard to suppress any impatience and evil from seeping through his voice.

The person on the other side seemed to have some protest but Taehyung shut him down with a simple and firm, "I want it done. Tonight." The person didn't seem to have a choice and after acknowledging Taehyung's commands, Taehyung hung up, started his engine, grabbed his steering wheel, made a right turn, and parked his car along the road outside a cafe. He got out of his car swiftly, his only objective was to grab a cup of coffee and get back into the car before heading back to the office to start his day. No, in fact his day had never ended, he had been up the entire night. It was 7am and the cafe had just started its operation with few customers around.

There was a small queue of office workers who looked like they were there to grab a cup of coffee to go. Taehyung entered the cafe and looked at the menu above for awhile before joining the queue. He was on his phone typing away while waiting for his turn. When it was his turn, he was still on his phone.

"Good morning sir! Our kitchen is still not ready yet so only the drinks are ready for now. You can still order some of the pastries right here, I have a small oven at the front. We can get them toasted for you. What would you like to have this morning?" The chirpy voice behind the counter has been repeating the same greeting to every customer that came in but her voice carried the same brightness that sounded like the silver bells of christmas.

Taehyung did not look up but he looked up enough to make a brief order of "Americano black" before looking down at his phone again.

"Americano black. Takeaway?"

"Yes takeaway" Taehyung said without looking.

"That would be $4.50!" The voice was nonetheless chirpy.

When Taehyung was finally done with his phone, he swiftly tucked it in his pocket and fished out his wallet from the other. When he finally looked up to make his payment, he made direct eye contact with you and paused to stare for awhile when he saw your face. You were looking at him with sincerity out of politeness even though he was being a rude and arrogant customer. "All customers should be treated equally" was your motto when you started this cafe with your sister.

Taehyung seemed to like what he saw as his attitude changed from nonchalant to one that was very interested. He returned your smiles with even bigger smiles, occasionally trying to act cool flipping through the brochures while waiting for his coffee to be done. He watched you as you served the other customers with the same bright voice and enthusiasm and watching you look so full of life seemed to give him life itself.

Day by day, Taehyung visited you at your cafe, ordering different things from the menu each time and occasionally asking you for recommendations as an excuse to talk to you more. He would usually come in the morning though at different timings. On some days, he would visit during the peak hours. On some days, he would drop by during the slower hours. Sometimes, you would be in the kitchen inventing a new dish for the menu or at the counter, trying out a new brew. On some days, Taehyung would order his coffee and sit by the window watching you work. He liked how you looked when you were busy taking the orders, keying things into the POS system, taking the payment and handing out the change, preparing the drinks, pouring the milk, packaging the takeaways and greeting the customers as they leave. He liked how you looked when you were busy clearing the cups and plates on the tables, when you go back and forth the kitchen and the floor, coming out with a towel, wiping the tables, and returning with fresh flowers and sugar for each tables in preparation for the next customer. Taehyung liked it best when he heard your laughter from where you were talking to your staff, he liked it best when you remembered him and said to him for the first time, "hello! It's you again!" He liked it best when you occasionally made eye contact and smiled at him when you caught him staring at you. He liked it best when you went up to him to ask if he liked what he was having and if he would like anything else. He wouldn't reject your offer each time and even if his face showed that he didn't want another cup of coffee, he would still tell you that you would like another cup. On some days when you were making your own creations, you would carefully approach Taehyung to ask if he would like to sample some. You realised later on that he was not the best person to ask as he would always look impressed with the new drinks, telling you that it tasted good when the truth was that the drink was too sweet or the strawberry did not go well with the latte.

"I should add salt into the tea one day just to see if you would tell me that i can sell this to customers," you said teasingly when Taehyung praised your new creme brule macchiato.

"I just don't like being too tough on pretty girls" Taehyung flirted. "Besides, the drink is really good. I would pay for this if it’s up on the menu."

Taehyung's smooth voice and pretty eyelashes never failed to get you. When he called you pretty, you couldn't help but blush and smile at him. Seeing you laugh and smile made Taehyung happy as well. He swore to himself that he would do anything to make sure that you smiled like this everyday.

“Your boss seemed to be in a very pretty mood these days huh babe”, Hoseok chimed at the tall and slim secretary when he walked out of Taehyung’s office. The secretary had a great figure, her scarlet red bodycon dress fitting her just right, accentuating her curves at the correct places without looking too sexy or trashy. Her eyeliner was winged properly and her long wavy hair looked in place even though it was 4pm in the evening. 

“Yes he is”, she replied in a soft but firm voice. 

“I think.... he might be in love. He is behaving like a young horny man who met his first love”, Hoseok bent over the secretary’s table and whispered to her. 

“Probably,” the girl answered. She had a slight look on her face even though she tried to keep it in. Her voice sounded a little more shaky than before. 

“Hmm i guess it’s no loss for you. In fact, a happy boss would mean an easier life for you. It’s good for you,” Hoseok winked at her before taking his leave. 

The secretary stopped pretending to type at her computer and let out a sigh as she fell back on her chair. She did not quite like the idea of Taehyung being in love, with someone else. 

Taehyung and you started dating almost immediately and naturally. Every date was filled with butterflies in the stomach and sweet smiles and laughter. After just three months of dating, Taehyung proposed to you in front of the Sleeping Beauty castle at Tokyo Disneyland. The both of you were sitting in front of the castle waiting for the castle’s lights and fireworks display. The 15 minutes long fireworks show was so mesmerising that you did not notice Taehyung had disappeared. After the show was over, he appeared with a big bouquet of 99 roses, got on his knee and asked for you to marry him with a diamond ring in a red box. You were so happy and touched that you said yes immediately. Even without a romantic proposal, you were so love with Taehyung that you would agree to marry him if he asked. When you said yes, Taehyung looked as though he was the luckiest man in the world. He was smiling from ear to ear and he hugged you so tight that you had to tell him to stop. 

When the both of you returned to Korea, Taehyung called for an urgent stakeholders’ meeting. 

“I have an important announcement to make,” Taehyung who was sitting at the head of the table declared when the last person entered and took his seat. 

“I am getting married.” 

There was a pause and a few “huh” and “what” from the members. 

“Wait a minute. Are you crazy?” Yoongi spat out from the other side of the table. 

“If you have forgotten, we are still trying to tie up some loose ends from the X case. Do you think it is a good time for you get married??” The older guy continued in disbelief. 

“Wow okay I didn’t think she would be someone you would fuck”, the youngest of the group said after looking at the screen that Hoseok showed from his laptop. 

“Well, why would I want a slut for a wife?” Taehyung retorted with venom in his reply, obviously talking about Jungkook’s wife, who was his third one now, a model that everyone in the room had fucked at least once before, including Taehyung himself. 

“Okay, so if Hoseok is able to search her up so easily, I am guessing that it won’t be difficult for the other side to mark her” Jin said in a calm and rational manner as he placed the glass of water down after sipping some from it. 

“That is why I am calling for this meeting,” Taehyung replied naturally. 

“Okay, so I guess we would just have to keep your marriage in this room and get you a secluded house to keep her there,” Namjoon analysed. 

“That’s easy. We’ll just have to do the same as how you’ve kept all your other fuckdolls previously. Get them some house in some island or by the beach, buy them bags, clothes, shoes and servants, get some body guards to track them to make sure they are not on the loose...” Jungkook said in a rather matter of fact manner. 

“No. I will be holding my wedding in 3 months.” 

Taehyung’s announcement seemed to cause some restlessness as everyone started shifting in their seats and sitting straighter than before. 

“Are you crazy??” was Yoongi’s first reaction before he started laughing at how ridiculous Taehyung sounded. Even Taehyung’s best friend Jimin looked uneasy. 

“I’m sorry but do you remember how much trouble it was even if the girl was just a quick fuck?” Hoseok said in disbelief. “They turned out to be spies, hostages, dead bags or became revengeful psychomaniacs working for the other side.” 

Taehyung had his elbows on the table and his palms closed together as he closed his eyes and rested his forehead on the praying gesture of his palms. He took a deep breath, “that’s why I need all of you here today.” 

“Is she affiliated to any big business? Is she the daughter or god-daughter of someone?” Jin asked questions after questions. 

The secretary cleared her throat a little. She was brought into the company by Taehyung’s godfather. 

“No.” 

“Does she know the danger of this? Does she know... what, we are truly doing?” Jin asked again. 

“No. That’s why, I need all of you... She cannot know about this.” Taehyung looked at each of them with sharp and serious eyes as he threw out his biggest demand. 

There was silence and the room was filled with heavy sighs and deep exhales. 

After the meeting, Jimin followed Taehyung into his office. 

“Are you sure you want to do this? You know that the X case is not resolved yet. If they know that you are going to have a wife, they will definitely use her -” 

“Jimin. I know.” Taehyung interrupted. He looked at his friend with desperate eyes this time, a stare that was pleading with him more than threatening. “Jimin, please. Help me.” 

The good natured man could only keep quiet and sigh. “Where is she?” 

Taehyung looked at his friend with widened eyes. 

“I need to know who is this woman that I will be protecting.” 

Taehyung’s face relaxed and his smile showed up, washing away all the intensity he accumulated from the meeting. 

“You will definitely like her,” Taehyung said as he threw his arm around Jimin. 

Jimin smiled after seeing how much Taehyung has brightened up just by talking about you. “Congratulations buddy,” he said as he elbowed his friend. He was truly curious about what kind of woman you were that could steal his best friend’s heart in such a manner that he could have never expected. 

Taehyung took Jimin to your cafe that evening and he could not stop talking about you on the way there. When Taehyung and Jimin entered the doors, you were busy rearranging the cakes at the display counter. You said hi to your lover enthusiastically when he called you and was surprised to see that he has brought a friend. After Taehyung made an introduction, you greeted Jimin with the same brightness and told them to have a seat while you prepared some drinks and small food to eat. 

“I really didn’t expect her to be someone like this....” Jimin whispered to his friend on the way to the seat. “She is so...... ordinary.” 

“Hey” Taehyung didn’t seemed too pleased with Jimin’s answer and gave his friend a look as he sat down opposite him. 

“I’m just saying the truth,” Jimin shrugged. 

You came over with a tray full of drinks and snacks for your boyfriend and his friend. After placing each item carefully on the table and explaining to them what each item was, you told them to enjoy and wanted to take your leave. 

“Join us,” Taehyung tugged at the back of your apron which startled you before pulling around your waist. How could he be so mischievous with his friend around?

You looked at Jimin and he nodded in agreement, “yes please join us.” 

You took a seat next to Taehyung and scrunched up your nose to make a face at him. 

You turned back to look at Jimin with a polite smile, “I hope you like the place and the food here.” 

Jimin was sipping his coffee and he nodded immediately to give you the approval, “yes, the coffee is good and the cafe is quaint, it’s a nice place. I hope you wouldn’t mind if this becomes my go-to for my coffee fixes, Mrs Kim-to-be.”

You burst out laughing at Jimin’s words and blushed uncontrollably as you turned to look at Taehyung who was sipping his coffee.

“Why? You weren’t so shy when you said yes to becoming my wife in Japan, why are you so shy now?” He said as he placed his cup on the table. 

“Stop it!” you hit Taehyung for teasing you and he grabbed the arm that you used to hit him and pulled his face so close to yours that you were looking at him directly eye to eye. 

“Hey hey love birds but I’m feeling awkward here please.” You pulled away and lipped “stop it” at Taehyung while Jimin continued, “to be honest, I am here today because Taehyung wants me to help you out with the wedding preparations, and also with the moving in to your new place. Basically, he has asked me to be your slave and mover, so use me master.” 

It was Taehyung’s excuse to have Jimin follow you around. Jimin was in fact your 24/7 bodyguard when Taehyung was not around to make sure that you were not marked and followed by the other side, or worst still, kidnapped. It was not an easy task as Jimin had to make sure that it was natural enough for you to believe that he was anything else besides a friend that was helping out with the wedding. 

From that day onwards, Jimin was by your side the minute Taehyung was not. He would either be visiting your cafe on the pretense of getting some food or drink, driving you around to pick your furniture, decorations, meetings with the wedding planner, photographers etc, running errands for Taehyung, or if he ran out of excuse to be around you so often, he would be watching you from afar.

Most of his nights were spent watching you outside your cafe. He would watch you clear out the display counter, take out the cakes or pastries that were inside for a few days, and pack them into paper bags for the staff to bring home. He would watch you clean the top of the display counter before switching off the lights then watch you clean the coffee machine while the staff takes the stirrer and mixers to the sink to wash. He would watch you help the other staff at the floor to wipe the tables and blow out the candle that was on each table. He would watch you tuck in the chairs and disappear into the kitchen. When you returned, you would be handing out brown paper bags to each staff, smiling at them widely and greeting them goodbye as they bowed politely and walked out of the door. You would wave goodbye to them again before flipping the sign at the door to “CLOSED” and return back to behind the counter to open the cash register. Jimin would watch you as you take the money and your laptop to the corner seat of the cafe and watch you as you do the accounting of the finances of the day. He would watch the way your brows furrow together when you were typing away on your laptop, and watch you count and re-count your money. “Under the table, you little fool,” he muttered under his breath as he saw you frantically trying to find a coin that you dropped. When he saw how you smiled after you found the missing coin, he couldn’t help but smile as well. He would watch you keep the money in your bag, checked the entire place for one last time, switched off the lights and locked the main door of the cafe. He would watch you as you make your way down the street to the nearest bank and watch you deposit your money. When you took the bus home, he would be driving behind the bus. When you took the train home, he would follow behind and enter the carriage next to yours. When you walked home, he would follow behind and made sure that the lights of your home were lit up before he made his move and called it a day. 

When Jimin was watching you under his eyes, he would take the chance to get to know you better as well. Although you seemed harmless and clueless, he wanted to make sure that you were not a spy or an undercover sent by the other side, so he would ask personal questions about your family, your friends and etc. When Jimin knew that you were from Busan as well, something seemed to click within him. But it was when a masked man holding a penknife and almost slashed your back, that Jimin started to worry for you more than he should. After a meeting with the wedding planner, Jimin ran to the 7-11 nearby to get some water while you were waiting for him outside. When he came out of the store, he saw a mysterious man lurking behind you and began shouting at him when he saw the man took out his penknife and aimed for your back. The man ran away and Jimin wanted to chase him but he couldn’t bear to leave you alone after the dangerous incident. Jimin was very defensive, ordering you to get into the car as he looked around fiercely for enemies before heading into the car and locking the doors after he got in. When you wanted to say something, Jimin put his hand up as a signal for you to keep quiet as he dialled for Taehyung and told him what happened. To prevent you from raising suspicion, Jimin claimed that you were almost robbed or pick-pocketed and told Taehyung that he will be sending you straight home. Taehyung said that he would go over to your house straight once he was able to go off and told Jimin to never leave you alone until he get there. After Jimin hung up, he exhaled deeply and turned to look at you. You were concerned but did not dare to say a word. Jimin felt sorry for scaring you with his aggression and he softened his demeanour immediately, asking you in a gentle and soft tone, “hey are you okay?” You nodded and kept quiet throughout the car ride home. 

Jimin and you sat on the couch quietly while waiting for Taehyung to arrive. When Taehyung arrived, he rushed to your side and hugged you tightly as he stroked the back of your head. You nuzzled on his neck and inhaled his smell, the familiar smell was comforting and you hugged him back tighter. “It’s okay baby, you are safe”, he kept repeating gently as he kept you in his embrace. After Taehyung tucked you into bed, he went out to the living room to talk to Jimin. The both of them discussed in a hushed manner. 

“I think they might have found her. She is no longer safe.” 

“I know...” 

“Taehyung, we have to keep her safe”, Jimin hissed with eyes full of determination. 

[leftlovetragedy]

Moffat and his final problem with women

I can’t help but notice that Steven Moffat does have problems with female characters on his shows. Maybe when you watch a lot  of his works, only then you’ll notice it, but it is what it is. And the problem is? He writes Faux Strong Female Characters (FSFC). Why Faux? Well, here is why: 1) Irene Adler  

In ACD’s canon she works for herself, has her own personal life and doesn’t care romantically for Sherlock, is the one who outsmarted Sherlock, departed on her own terms into sunset and made Sherlock actually have respect for women ( “He used to make merry over the cleverness of women, but I have not heard him do it of late” - Watson about Sherlock in ACD’s lore). ACD wrote this Irene in XIX c. In BBC Sherlock? Yeah, on the surface  she is that cool dominatrix, comfortable with her sexuality, who blackmails powerful clients,  has a hold of  state secrets and even whips Sherlock at one point. But in the end? She doesn’t outsmart Sherlock at all, in fact she loses to him because of her feelings for him! That’s right, Sherlock is so damn cool and special dude, that Irene loses because of her emotions, using his name as a password for her very important mobile, which contains all the important info she uses as her protection. In a blink she is begging Sherlock, with tears in her eyes, saying that she is  toast without her mobile. At the end of episode it gets “better” when Sherlock actually rescues her from terrorists in Pakistan in a total classical damsel-in-distress trope. Not only that, but we learn from this episode that Irene works with Moriarty and in fact her plan to trick Holmes brothers wasn’t her plan (”I had all this stuff; never knew what to do with it. Thank God for the consultant criminal. Gave me a lot of advice about how to play the Holmes boys” - says Irene in BBC Sherlock). So Irene in BBC Sherlock needs consulting  from Moriarty to work out a cohesive plan, loses to Sherlock in the game of wits because her wits were very much affected by her sentiments towards Sherlock and needs to be saved by him with wielding sword action. Steven Moffat wrote this Irene in XXI c.

2) Mary Morstan | Mary Watson 

In ACD’s canon she and Watson met because of the case, she worked for some time as governess, they married and then she died. 

In BBC Sherlock on the surface she got an upgrade in badassery. She is  a former assassin, who now tries to have a new, normal life  with John Watson and has a baby with him, very skilled, very clever, with quick reactions,  quite an intellectual match to Sherlock and often more clever than her husband John. Yet in attempts to make a strong skilled character Moffat  screws up, cause this really smart, professional trained ex-assassin  uses perfume while she goes out to kill a guy who blackmailed her; can’t figure out that her USB flash drive has a tracking device and goes to a meeting with a person, who is responsible for her  fellow assassin  ex-colleagues being taken down, without any weapons or protection (you know, there’re such things as bullet-proof body armour that could be worn under your clothes in the situation like this, surely ex-assassin should know this ). And the result? Mary is killed in a most ridiculous fashion by some bored secretary, because she jumped in front of the bullet trying to save-you guess it right - Sherlock from being shot. ACD also had Mary dead, however without fanfare, silliness and without  Mary dying for Sherlock or without giving Mary a little baby girl, leaving this girl motherless as a result of Mary’s death in the name of Sherlock. Steven Moffat wrote Mary as this super pro,  smart and experienced, who at the same time makes spectacular dumb decisions which undermine her supposed smartness and proficiency, who gives up her own agenda, her new life with her husband and daughter, the new life she wanted after retiring and worked for and finally got - because of Sherlock. Because Sherlock is so special and important here, that female character must die for him.  3) Eurus Holmes

The secret sister of Holmes brothers made up by Moffat and Gatiss.   Locked in a secret prision (facility), she is a genius from childhood, killed Sherlock’s best  friend when they were little kids, manipulator (can actually hypnotise people with talking or something and make them dance to her tune), master of disguise, can arrange wild games of survival, can escape her prision at her own will, etc. On the surface she is uber nemesis to Sherlock, maybe in some ways more dangerous than Moriarty himself! But all her talents and wits in the end were all about getting attention of her brother Sherlock and hanging out with him. Yeah, in the end it was all about Sherlock being so special and important that his super smart sister didn’t really want anything else and as soon as Sherlock got a proper hold of her, Eurus was tamed, cause she pretty much didn’t have any other agenda in life. She has visits from her brother now and they can play their violins together.  Awww. That’s it! Apart from making it all about Sherlock (again!) the whole twist with super secret sister who suddenly appeared out of the blue was just bad writing on the level of juvenile fanfiction. But Sherlock is not the only one of Moffat’s title characters who is that damn special  and cool, so female characters must bend for him in that way or another. Look at Doctor Who! 4) Missy

Missy, female regeneration of The Master, the old nemesis of The Doctor. On the surface she is dangerous, smart, cunning, with evil glee and no boundaries. She can kill and mock, and scheme.   Yet her  first plot in the series was to raise the Earth's dead as an army of Cybermen - and give this army as a gift  to The Doctor!   Missy then suggests that she and the Doctor can still hang out together again and return to Gallifrey together. Eh? Missy’s last plot in the series was to be saved by The Doctor from execution. Then The Doctor locks Missy in his vault under the university campus - and Missy begins to reform and see errors of her ways! Apparantely nothing helps a woman to reform like being put under lock and key by a guy in his basement and giving guidance to this woman! Her arc ends with Missy wanting to help the Doctor and getting killed because she chose The Doctor’s side.  In other words, the first ever female version of the Master aka Missy died for the Doctor, was tutored by him and basically wanted to hang out with him more than anything else. Riiight. Cause The Doctor is that special, you know. 5) River Song

Professor River Song. Archaeologist, child of Tardis, has a Time Lord DNA, time traveller. On the surface brave, witty, smart, strong-willed. Still she unfortunately got the shades of Moffat’s treatment of his female characters. She was raised by the Silence to kill the Doctor but fell in love with him and became his wife.  In her childhood as Mels she was obsessed with the Doctor, when she regenerated into River Song  she entered the University to become archaeologist  in order to find the Doctor  through time and space. She was ready to screw time and space and history, by defying a fixed point in time because Doctor meant too much too her . As a result time shredded into a reality where all history happened at once. She finally fixed it by fake-killing the Doctor, but then she was sentenced to several life sentences for this murder and served the sentence to make the Silence believe him dead, and though she often escaped her prision to spend time with The Doctor, she always returned to her cel. Like another gig of female character being locked up for the sake of main male protagonist. Okey dokey. In the end River didn’t allow  The Doctor to sacrifice himself in the Library in order to save people there, and took his place, dying as a result of this. The thing is Steven Moffat here has a female character who is very much emotionally fixed on his main male protagonist, who can easily  become putty in his hands at times because of this. And dies for him. See the trend?  That’s why it can be called FSFC. Sure, Moffat’s female characters may use guns or whips, act dangerously and independent on the surface, throw around quirky and  quick-witted lines, have some adventures, use word “sexy” a lot , go against main male protagonist, even go after his life - but in the end they get upstaged by this main male protagonist either because it turns out that  they have real strong emotional attachment to him and it makes them lose or give up or join his side, or because this main male protagonist is so special and important in general, that they just feel obliged to make sacrifices for him. Or combination of these variants. As a bonus: many of those  FSFC can be really flashy and have a “bad girl” vibe. Moffat obviously has a kink for “bad girls” and likes to write them, so the main male protagonist, be it Sherlock or Doctor Who, can get an upper hand over those bad girls. IDK, probably it makes it all the sweeter for Moffat.   Irene, Missy, River, Eurus all have it in them. Irene is a dominatrix and string-puller and flaunts it; Missy, while cosplaying Mary Poppins in her looks, openly refers to herself as “bad girl” and surely acts like one; River a playful time travelling criminal/scientist/adventurer has enemies-to-lovers trope played out with the Doctor in spades ( “ They engineered a psychopath to kill you -Totally married her"). Eurus  has a lot of very, very bad girl about her. Heck, even Mary Watson has some of it in her, due to her dark past as assasin for hire. This whole thing is very troubling and it seems many of Moffat’s  female characters can be "strong” only until they submit (in one form or another) to or in the name of main male protagonist. Because Moffat’s main male protagonists are that cool and special and awesome, so it must be about them and their awesomeness in the end, when the dust settles.

[ladyscientia]

RE: FFXV Headcanons. Haven't seen many scenarios about the guys post-10 year crystal period and post-Adryn victory. Pretending they didn't "die", what would starting a relationship with them be like?

I love this for being my first HC request. The post-10 years boys are my faves without a damn doubt. Not too mention that they all look 10 times more beautiful. hahaha. This kind of turned into a much longer HC than I meant for it to be. Oh well. Enjoy!

Noctis Lucis Caelum: Imagine the almighty 6 decide to give Noctis the opportunity to come back to life and rule. They’ve deemed him well more than worthy after sacrificing his own life. The two of you meet somewhere along the lines of him rebuilding Insomnia. Maybe you work for the crown or some ‘Darkness Relief Agency.’ What you love the most about him is even though he’s all grown and manly and shit, he’s got ten years of immaturity to build on that he lost during his little crystal nap. He’s so lighthearted in the midst of the rebuilding chaos. He’s energetic, passionate, and after spending more time with you; flirtatious. 

Dating him would be a BIG deal, ok? He’s the flippin’ King of Lucis. Noct doesn’t want to pressure you with all that business. You keep the relationship secret for a long time; meeting late and sneaking around. Imagine he reserves the inn just for the two of at Galdin Quay. Somehow he’s managed to keep it real hush hush. You start a secretive stroll up the newly rebuilt dock toward the restaurant and he’s standing at the other end with the moon huge and full glowing at his glorious, suited back. Ugh. He’s got a hand outstretched to you and this beautiful flash of a smile. 

After spending a few nights with him though, you learn that he suffers from some pretty traumatic nightmares. He bolts up in bed, breathing heavily with his hair in his face and sweat on his brows. It’s been one hell of a road for him and patience is going to be key. 

He does eventually give in to the paparazzi and public in general. Noct is so smitten with you and giving his adoring personality just can’t hide it. Lucky you,

Prompto Argentum: Prompto is super dedicated his total bro and best friend, the KING. Getting his attention might be difficult at first. Prompto lost Noct for ten years, so every second to spend with him is important. You work in the royal chocobo stables; tending to, training, breeding and grooming the chocobos. You know of Prompto and he knows of you. He’s always been sincerely cordial and grateful for the work you do with some of his favorite animals. One day it just kind of happens. You bump into one another and whoa. Have his eyes always been the perfectly blue? That serenely blue? 

Prompt starts visiting the stables more often to ‘check in’ on his chocobo in between the days he can’t or doesn’t need to go out riding. Then one day you’re out excising one of the birds and as you leap down from the saddle, your foot gets caught in the harness. Prompt catches you, turns bright red, then kisses the shit out of you. The kiss is so intense from the build up of sexual tension, that you guys end up in the hay just making out. And the chocobo is standing there like … wtf?

Dating Prompto is sweet as fucking pie. He shows you off proudly TO ALL. So brace yourself for THAT. Nights out are at local pubs, enjoying music, dancing occasionally. He will take ALL OF THE PICTURES. And shyly ask one night alone that you pose for him. And I mean … pose for him. 

Gladioulus Amicitia: Out of all the boys, Gladio is most independent. His personal life is much more secretive and it makes him all the more mysterious and sexy. Now that the kingdom is back in order for the most part, Gladio is given the title as Captain of the Kingsglaive. And that’s where you meet him. You survived the 10 years of Darkness and came out stronger for it. You’ve lost most of your family in the wake of the destruction and have come to Insomnia to serve the King who took victory over it all. 

But Gladio is not impressed. It becomes your personal goddamn mission to prove him wrong. You butt heads on a daily, yo. He favors others training in the Glaive and goes out of his way to make it known to you that those trainees are giving you a run for your money. After one particular grueling training session after all the other rooks leave, you stay after to really give that good looking son of a bitch a piece of your mind. 

“You staying for more, rookie?” he asks, strolling in your direction with chest heaving out. He’s sweating from the last spar he had. He looks totally amused. You’re definitely going to respond, but he’s got you backing into a wall. He’s giving you a savage stare-down then lifts you up by your thighs against the stone and gives you the most powerful kiss of your life. Scary but damn was it hot.

In the beginning the relationship in interesting. When he spars with you, it becomes dead globvious to the other trainees that there’s something going on. It’s common knowledge almost instantly. He’s super protective, loves carrying you around and giving you a damn good lay. 

Ignis Stupeo Scientia: Ignis is like 90% blind and 100% precious. How does that make sense? It doesn’t. The point is this: it’s not love at first sight. Get me? You know Ignis because you both work closely with Noct. Ignis is his closest Royal Adviser and you’re his head Royal Secretary. Any appointment you make for Noct has to pass Ignis first. Your relationship with Ignis is totally and strictly business. But you can’t help but note to the other girls you work with on how fine he looks in this suit and that suit. Every day you notice something different about him. You start dreaming about him. You start DAY dreaming about him. Every day conversations become this nerve wracking thing for you. 

You mention to him one day that you’ve never had Ebony coffee. From that day on, there’s a can or mug on your desk every morning. The other girls squeal for you. The business relationship slowly starts to have a healthy mix of friendly conversation. He joins you out into Insomnia for errands Noctis has you run for him. Y’all are tight. It’s lovely until a rebuilding celebration is announced and he’s already escorting someone that isn’t you. The girls are willing to kill him for you. He notices you suddenly act cold around him. Your answers are short and passive. On the night of the party he follows you to your office to find out just what the devil is going on. You’ve had one too many drinks and announce, “I’m in love with you!” 

The comment has him staggering for air nearly. He asks, “can I have a look at you?” 

You are fed up with your emotional self and shout, “how??”

He brings your face into his hands and softly feels out your features from your forehead to your chin. He plants a subtle, long kiss on your lips. You die. The end. 

Seriously though. Best relationship ever. You lay on the couch and read books out loud to him as your shared form of entertainment. You talk for HOURS about what it was like for you both during the Darkness. His other senses are so heightened that little touches are a big deal. So touch him BIG. You know what I’m sayin.

[ciathyzareposts]

Nippon Safes Inc. – Imperial makeover

Written by Torch

In my last post, I managed to get sort of stuck. I imagine I could’ve brute forced my way through, but there’s only so many times one has the patience to try every action on every screen. Luckily commenter Vetinari came to my rescue with some much needed hints on how to proceed.

I only had a couple of items in my possession, but one of them was a saw, and I was pretty hung up on trying to make the saw in this chapter as useful as the wrench in Doug’s. Alas, what was needed was the “bowl” I found outside Doug’s apartment, that was in fact an empty perfume bottle ( or “flacon” ). Well, after filling this up with water from one of the fountains in the park, I can now go to the department store, pass the bottle off as a new one and ask for a refund.

Change is always possible for those who believe, Donna

I get 200 yen back, which in this game usually translates to 2 metro tickets. I think. I know I need one, at least. You see, I need to find the Sumo wrestler Buta Futotta to convince him to accept a challenge from Dino to fight him in wrestling match of the year, which has been heavily advertised, but they apparently haven’t selected an opponent for Buta yet. Great planning.

Now let me pause a bit to say that this next segment has got me thinking a bit about female stereotypes in games. I know the game introduced Donna as a “sexy chap without scruple”, but still I think this game is taking things a bit too far. Tag along, and maybe you’ll see what I mean.

For now, I’ve learned that Buta Futotta stays at the “Eternal Rest” hotel in Tozaiku district, so I need to get a metro ticket to get there. And now I have the money, so here we go. After a short stop at the newspaper vendor, and a trip on the metro, I end up outside the aforementioned hotel.

Is that the Avengers logo on the right?

Great hotel? With only 2-dimensional rooms? One point for Tyoko, though.

The hotel seems cheaper on the inside than the outside, and the hotel clerk looks strangely familiar

Yes, I’d like to Spoc… eh speak to mister Futotta.

The clerk is not very forthcoming with regards to spilling the beans (or fagiolis) on what room mr. Futotta’s in, even though Donna is ready to lay on the table. No, that’s not a misprint.

What’s the ESRB rating on this game, again…?

The clerk is not impressed, though.

No whatever could you mean?

Ok, so a little bit of suggestion never hurt anyone (I hope), but just wait. It gets worse. The clerk won’t tell me what room Futotta’s in, but he’s willing to leave a message for him, in his numbered-by-room pigeon-hole. I borrow a hotel pen, write a message and watch the clerk put it in the hole corresponding to room 127. Ok, now to get him out of the way. I discover that the pen has the phone number to the hotel reception printed on it, so I use one of the lobby phones to prank call him

Based on previous intel, I’m guessing that the first option won’t work

I tell him his moped is being stolen, so he runs out, leaving me with free access to the elevator. I ride it up to Butotta’s floor.

Why are all the rooms number 88? Or if they’re unlit LEDs, how do you make 127 with only 2 digits? It could be hexadecimal, but how do you separate 8/B and 0/D? I ask too many questions

The lower right door is Butotta’s “room”, so I knock on the door and

That went… hm… well?

Erm… what just happened…? If my powers of deduction are to be trusted, I believe it looks like Donna went to have sex with a sumo wrestler to get him to accept Dino as a challenger in the upcoming wrestling match. OR… wait… OR it COULD be that the “censored” sign was because Donna had to crawl in, accidentally showing her underpants when she bent down, and Futotta fell on her while he was running.. or crawling to greet her. Yeah…

Or if you have a better theory regarding the events that just transpired, please submit it in the comments section below.

Weird stuff indeed… At least the current goal seems to be achieved, so let’s head back to Dino to deliver the good news. After 2 trips on the metro, I meet up with Dino, only to learn that time must not move at the same speed in all of Tyoko

Moth…? Oh right. Mother. Sick.. and stuff

So in the time it took me to travel back to the main district and then to Kinza district by underground train, Futotta went to the same place, accepted Dino, fought the match and lost. Wow. Or maybe Kinza and Tozaiku districts are super close by, so Futotta could walk or take a cab in 5 minutes, and the train ride is like 2 hours each way. Yeah, that must be it. By the way, I do notice that I’m starting to make up excuses for the game’s logical ( and other ) fallacies.

Oh well, I guess the passing of time was always a bit incoherent in this game. For instance, Donna, Doug and Dino are clearly in the same city at the same time, however the department store never opened for Doug, the hot dog vendor never showed up, and the restaurant hasn’t opened for Donna, despite us being well past the point in time where Dino needed to fatten up.

Also this next bit doesn’t help with regards to time related inconsistencies. With my newly acquired 50,000 yen, I go visit the tea house again

At least give me a montage!

Ok, Donna now knows all there is to know about tea making, and we have a diploma to show for it. I go back to the emperor’s mansion and talk to the intercom again. This time I brag about my recently completed education, and I’m admitted inside to join the staff.

That’s so imperial

The emperor’s Frankenbutler comes to greet me

Meh… I’m still going to go with butler

He tells me I’m to replace the previous maid and to comply with the emperor’s every wish. He then gives me a key to the exit and leaves me to explore on my own. For now there’s only one other room I can enter

Who’s there?

The bookcase contains no less than 3 items marked “knick-knack”, all of which I can take. Two of them look like some sort of pyramid/lamp/bookstand, and the third seems somewhat familiar.

Yes, this one

At first I can’t quite put my finger on where I’ve seen it before, but then I look back at screenshots from Doug’s chapter

See anything familiar?

I remember thinking that the “key” I retrieved for Donna by breaking that other woman out of jail didn’t really look a whole lot like a key. So what’s going on here? Did the key perhaps have the wrong image in Doug’s chapter? I can’t find anything inside the mansion to use the box/key on, though, so I’ll just leave it for now.

At the bottom of the bookcase is a cabinet that contains a safe. Could this be where the sword is hidden? Donna’s only comment about it is that “There are five strange holes…” Maybe this is where the key goes. Nothing in my inventory does the trick, though. Not even the boxkey.

On the right is the door to the emperor’s room. If I try to open it, Donna instead knocks on the door. The emperor looks out through a hatch and declines to speak to me at the moment

Maybe I should knock with the knick-knack

I go back and talk to the secretary-butler who tells me that the emperor is suffering from a bad case of heartbreak. He’s in love with the pop singer Suzy Yong, and apparently won’t come out until he gets to meet her or something.

After messing around some more in the house, I’m pretty sure I’ve run out of things to try here, so I leave and decide to check if something’s changed. And lo and behold, the Museum’s open!

That only took one a chapter and a half

So I enter, of course

And a line of butt-ugly statues

The “statues” are actually sarcophaguses (sarcophagi?) that all have a certain distinctive look, and this would be a golden opportunity for the game to insert some flavor and/or humor by including descriptions of them, but there’s nothing. If I select the “look” action, there’s no mouseover text. If I mouseover with “take”, I see the text, and Donna will move to a sarcophagus if I click one, but she definitely doesn’t pick it up. It’s all a bit inconsistent, in my opinion. I also try the saw, since that’s a thing I’m doing now, after the wrench in the previous chapter was such a useful item, but doesn’t work here.

Besides the sarcophaguses, there’s an enticingly looking fire extinguisher that I can’t seem to be able to pick up. If I click the exact right spot, I get up to the second floor by using an invisible staircase. On this floor, there’s not much to interact with, but a golden statue draws my attention. And this one actually comes with a description!

Ooh! “Laser”

When pulling out the saw, I notice that only the left hand of the statue is interactable. Could this finally be a proper victim? Yes! Despite looking like being made of solid gold or something, I can cut the hand right off using my saw that I found hanging from a tree and is probably made for cutting wood. Sweet! Now what to do with it…?

I go back to the mansion to see if there’s anything new to try, and it turns out the hand can be used to open the safe. I now recall that there were “five strange holes” in the lock. Alas, there’s no katana in the safe, just a piece of paper.

Famous shmamous. I’ve never seen her performing at the Hot Sushi

This is the singer the butler was talking about, the one the emperor has a crush on. I try using the note on the door to lure him out, but it won’t interact. I go back and talk to the butler again, and he tells me what happened to the previous maid. She tried to steal the katana, so she was arrested and sent to prison. The katana was not recovered, however.

After this, there’s not much more here to do, so I go back into town. I know I at some point will meet with Doug, so maybe I could see if this interaction is available now…? I go to his apartment, and the door is actually open. When I enter, Doug shows up right after.

I have the strangest sense of Deja Vu. Or Deja vu II. Or maybe Uninvited

What happens next is a replay of the exact same sequence that transpired during Doug’s chapter. Which makes sense. Only now I know that Donna is bluffing about a lot of the things she said. She claims to know the emperor intimately, despite having only had a short (and rather hostile) interaction with him through a door hatch. She strangely also refers to him as “Puci puci”, despite not having learned this nickname anywhere. Like before, it ends with Donna promising to get a letter of introduction from the emperor, and Doug pledges to break the other maid out of prison and get the katana from her (or rather the key to where the katana is now).

After I leave Doug’s place, I notice that there’s something new hanging on the newspaper sellers’s booth. It’s a poster of Suzy Yong. As I try to take it, I’m faced with a new copy protection question

Hopefully enough to screw in a lightbulb

After finding the answer in the manual, I receive the poster. Hey, maybe I can show this to the emperor to get him to come out of his room? I hurry over to the mansion, only to be slapped in the face by the clammy hand of disappointment. Ok, maybe Donna could masquerade as Suzy, to fool the emperor instead? But how? I didn’t see a make-up room at the Hot Sushi, but maybe if I talk to the bartender or Max&Kos? Nope, nothing new there.

At this point I’m pretty much back to brute force. Being somewhat fatigued by how often I’ve had to resort to travelling all around town, randomly clicking stuff, I’m pretty close to surrendering and posting another request for assistance, but I’m not sure even TBD has done two requests for the same game, so I dial dosbox’s CPU cycles up to 11 (thousand) and make another sweep of the city.

Actually I manage to combine the sweep with a little bit of deduction. I do have 100 yen left, which equates to one metro ticket, so it’s likely that I’ll need to go to another district for at least one puzzle. Having learned about the other locations mostly from signs and Max&Kos, I check all metro stations, but I finally strike gold outside the department store. There’s an electronic sign that changes every time I enter and leave the screen. It seems to alternate between 3-4 different ads, and one of them is this

Is that the lonesome cowboy Lucky Look and his trusty horse, Wooly Jumper?

Curious as to whether this has been there the whole time, I restore to an earlier save to check, and it seems this particular sign actually won’t show up until after a certain point in time. I think it’s after I find the autograph in the safe. Nevertheless, I can now buy a ticket to the Subu district.

Lucky look before you cross

This is the same area as the Pachinko hut from Doug’s chapter, but that’s unavailable now. We’re here for the Lucky Look salon though, and that’s open. Inside I’m greeted by Figaro, the beautician

I feel that this is supposed to look like a celebrity, but I can’t quite make out who. 5 CAPS for the best suggestion

Figaro has several ideas for how to improve Donna’s appearance, much to her dismay, but we’re here to look like Suzy Yong, so Donna presents the poster, and Figaro agrees to a make-over.

You smooth talker you

Finally, a montage

The wonders of make-up

Now that Donna’s appearance is so drastically changed, I can’t help but wander around town to see if people react differently. Disappointingly, nobody notices anything.

All this work and you don’t even notice?! Men!

Ok, back to the emperor’s place then. This time, he’s happy to see me.

Erh… maybe I didn’t think this through properly

He’s less happy after he wants “Suzy” to sing for him, though, and despite vying for a career as a musical performer, Donna isn’t able to deliver.

Just go “na na na na naaa”. I’m sure he won’t notice

He accuses me of being an imposter, and goes back inside his room again… Sigh… back to the drawing board…. Maybe Donna can learn the song? I go to the department store to see if they have any sheet music or CDs of Suzy Yong, but I can’t find any. Maybe I could watch her on TV? The only TV I know of is in Doug’s apartment, but that’s closed now. Or is it?

It’s actually open. I go in, and Doug’s not there, so I can look around. In the “larder”, I notice I can interact with Doug’s supercomputer. Donna isn’t really impressed with the specs, but discovers a CD-ROM inside, which I can take. I try using it in the computer again to see what’s on it, but that doesn’t help.

On a hunch I discover what I would classify as a very silly solution. Very silly indeed. If I go to the department store, I can…

Hi, I would like to trade this used CD-ROM with unknown contents for a new, copyrighted musical CD

I wish I was kidding. In exchange for the CD-ROM, I get Suzy Yong’s latest hit. The perfume bottle I can see, but this is really stupid. Oh well, at least I’m closer to learning the song. I try Doug’s PC and radio again to see if I can play the CD on them, but nope and double nope. Sigh… Off again to look for a CD player somewhere…

Going to the Kinza district again, I notice the TV tower is open. I go in and find a karaoke machine. Wow, that’s a really natural thing to find in the lobby of a TV station.

Friends don’t let friends do Karaoke

Ok ok, whatever, let’s just get this over with. Insert the CD, and Donna can finally learn the words to the song.

Ooh, I was so close

Learning the song gives me a new sing action, that I can use on the door in the mansion

The bass clef is actually wrong. The dots should be to the right of the curl. Now you know!

Finally I manage to properly impress the emperor, who invites me in to his room

So how did Donna already know the nickname if she learns it here..? Lucky guess?

Donna asks for a letter of introduction for Doug, which is granted, and the emperor then declares that they are to marry. Which was not part of my plan. He gets rather upset when Donna says she needs to “think about it”.

It’s good to know I have a choice

He takes my entrance key and leaves. So now what? In his room are two wardrobes, so I start by checking them. One contains a nondescript “bottle” while the other contains and equally nondescript “doll”. I’d say the bottle looks like a canister of gas or pressurized air, and the doll looks like the blow-up type. And my suspicions are confirmed as soon as I ( after some fiddling ) manage to combine them

The doll is neatly folded so as to appear unused

Good thing they put censored bars over the naughty bits.

I can’t leave by the main entrance, but as I accidentally click on the window on the left, Donna jumps out and dives into the river outside. I’m not sure what the payoff was regarding the doll, but my guess is it was used as a flotation device.

The butler runs out to search for Donna, leaving the door open, and afterwards our (anti)heroine emerges safely from the water, looking smash…

THE DEAD ARE RISING… oh wait

Luckily the letter of introduction was written on waterproof paper probably, so I hurry back to Doug to exchange quest items. After a repeat of the interaction from Doug’s chapter, it’s back to the mansion again to finally get the sword. As I enter, it’s anyone’s guess where the sword is hidden

You’re getting colder

As I mentioned earlier, one of the knick-knacks I picked up from the bookcase looks exactly like the key I got from Doug. And to make it even weirder, either one can be used to open the safe

A key in the hand is better than two that look like a box

Maybe the graphics artist had a flu or something the day they were designing the key. Anyway, I open the safe, grab the sword and head outside to freedo….

I’m starting to see a pattern here

And with that, the chapter ends, much the same way Doug’s did. I think the brown coat and the gloves resemble what Dr. WooKi was wearing, but why would he do this, if I’m on my way to delivering the promised item(s) to him? It doesn’t make sense, so make somebody else wants these too? Well, still one chapter to go before we can get to the bottom of this. At least Dino seems like a nice guy.

Time played 13h 5m Tioko/Tyoko mentions ( accumulated) Tioko: 10 Tyoko: 9 Inventory Saw, 3 metro tickets, 2x knick-knack, 2x knick-knack/safe key, Suzi Yong autograph, Suzi Yong poster, Katana Shinjuku

source http://reposts.ciathyza.com/nippon-safes-inc-imperial-makeover/

[thesignsofjohnlock]

SUGAR DADDY FIC RECS

A Little Sugar Never Hurt Anybody by beautifullyheeled, 8 k, explicit, daddy kink. A lovely coming of age (and cuming of age) between a unilock Sherlock and a visiting professor Capt. Watson. Just sweet, and dream-like, sexy and lovely.

All the Rest (of What I Want) by philalethia, 68 k, explicit. Slow-build daddy kink story with an alternate meeting – Sherlock hires John off a fetish meet-up site to do some legwork for a case. He keeps hiring John to do errands, and buying him things. John insists he doesn’t want to be a sugar baby for a sugar daddy. Sherlock is obviously mad for him, and trying his hardest to deduce what will win John over.

Without You I Would Be Utterly Bored by lookupkate, 21 k , explicit. John is a struggling med student working a phone sex line to get by when one client utterly catches his attention. A little bit of “Pretty Woman” johnlock style, John as a rent boy, and Sherlock as a sugar daddy. Things of course work out beautifully after some misunderstandings along the way. Sweet and sexy.

Angel Hair series by justacookieofacumberbatch. Explicit. John is a lonely, divorced heart surgeon. Things change when a flirty young waiter who seems to know everything about him agrees to meet him at his flat. Virgin!lock and tub sex – yum!

Practically Perfect by vitruvianwatson (keepyoureyesfixedonme) – 6 k, explicit, Alternate Universe - Sugar Daddy, age difference, younger Sherlock, older John. Barista!Sherlock is emotionally insecure, but John is a very good doctor and has just what he needs. PWP.

Sugar Daddy John series by sexxica, 7 works, explicit.  Sherlock is a homeless teen using, and on the streets. John is a wealthy surgeon who wants something more out of life. Oh, daddy, take me home and make it better!

Breck 1080 by orphan_account, 12 k, explicit. Dr. Watson, world-renowned cardiac surgeon, accepts an invitation to be keynote speaker at a medical conference in Breckenridge, Colorado, a ski resort town in the Rocky Mountains. He meets a sexy young bartender at the opening dinner then spends the week making his baby happy.

Follow Me Down by 221BeStillMyHeart (HighTimesWithHiddles), 49 k, explicit. Sherlock Holmes is a 23 year old genius working as a forensic analyst at Bart’s hospital. John Watson is a 38 year old army captain just back from war, working as the lead surgeon in the trauma ward. A chance meeting brings them together, and no one is ever the same. Slow burn daddy kink - delicious!

HISTORIC  SUGAR DADDY

Amanuensis series by Redscudery, 3 works, explicit. Regency AU. Johnlock. Mycroft finds a position for his younger brother as the secretary to Lord John Watson. Sherlock is furious with Mycroft, even after things work out so well. You get daddy John and twink Sherlock, some cross-dressing, come play, semi-public sex, and a rude gift for Mycroft as a joke.  Thumbs up!

Wrapped Around Your Finger by MojoFlower, 27 k, explicit- hold me, this is HOT. Period 1900′s daddy kink. Teen Sherlock meets an older man in Morocco, and things are never quite the same for either of them.

[gcalit]

The George Bailey Conundrum (Featured in the December 2018 Issue)

by Todd Willhite

It's that time. Some would say it's the most wonderful time, at least of the year. I have had an odd relationship with Christmas ever since Christmastime 1990. That was the year that a certain Christmas movie triggered an existential crisis in my 10-year-old brain.

Because we had hit our goal of food donations for the needy we got a prize of watching a movie in the gym, on the big screen, actually there was no screen. Just a wall. We were all led to the gym and sat by class, fourth grade in the back because we were the oldest and tallest. The projector was set up in the middle of everyone and a murmur came over the gym when the lights were turned out and the emergency exit signs cast an eerie, red glow over the milk cooler.

After about 30 seconds the lights came on again because Mr. Hund was having troubles running a projector from 1965. We all had a good laugh at his ineptitude and I vowed to remember this moment for a good burn later in front of the class. Mr. Klink, the principal, silenced us and the lights went out again as the projector began to hum. The movie started and worked through the garbled sound that always accompanies cinematic fare viewed with dated technology. The title screen appeared and we finally found out we would be watching It's A Wonderful Life, which seems rather cliche but we were only kids and most, including myself, had yet to see it.

We watched in silent awe as the incomparable Jimmy Stewart embodied George Bailey, a down on his luck banker who gets into a drunken bar fight and then heads to a bridge to kill himself in the icy river below. I was 10 and there were 1st graders watching, too. Gotta love the early '90's and its complete disregard for the emotional well-being of children.

We all know the story, George goes to the bridge but his guardian angel Clarence falls in first and George saves him. Clarence goes on to show George what life would be like if he were never born (which I thought was dumb. Why not ask to see what life would be like if he had actually committed suicide? He was born and those things won't change but maybe his suicide will lead to a prosperous new town...). So George sees that the town and its people would be much worse off had he been a stain in his mother's bloomers instead of growing up to become the worst banker in Bedford Falls, NY.

One thing that I didn't notice 'til I was older was that no matter what happened to George financially, he was still a lucky man to have that hot piece of ass Mary Hatch Bailey at home, played by the incomparable Donna Reed. I would live in dumpster behind a Long John Silver's in Arizona, if it meant that I got to stick it to Donna FUCKING Reed a couple times a week. She's that perfect combination of housewife, homemaker, and dirty debutante that most men with mommy issues seek out but never find. The quintessential mother figure that was lost when women left the home for the workplace and became sexy, sexy secretaries (like that randy minx, Ms. Hathaway from The Beverly Hillbillies, played by the incomparable Nancy Kulp).

Well, George goes home and finds the townspeople have rallied together to fix all his financial problems like some kind of offline Gofundme and now he's happy cuz that's how depression worked in the black and white days. Then a bell on the Christmas tree chimed and his little girl says that famous line, "Everytime a bell rings, an angel gets his wings." How does she know this? How does anyone know this? Why would this be a stipulation for wings? Are angels in the summer screwed until a more bell-friendly season rolls around?

And with that iconic line the movie was over, school was out for break, and everyone had a merry Christmas. Except me. I was troubled for most of those two weeks off and even beyond. I couldn't help but wonder: What if It's A Wonderful Life's premise is a lie?

The premise, or argument (is every premise an argument or is that just my worldview?) is that every person has worth and if you, you special, rare platypus, were never born, your town, your family, and maybe the world would be worse off. The horror!

That argument is easy to make if you have a vitruvian specimen like George Bailey, who as a 12-year old saved his brother from drowning, and in his teens stoped a pharmacist from poisoning a young child with a poisoned prescription. Essentially saving two lives before he can even drive.

Then he saves the bank, helps hundreds of people buy homes instead of just paying rent, becomes a naval pilot during WW II even though he could have gotten out of it due to a bum ear, shoots down a plane that would have killed a transport, and earns the Medal of Honor.

It's not difficult to say that George Bailey has value. That if had he not been born, and no one took his place or those that did were incompetent, the community would be worse off. The world needs you George Bailey. We need you George Bailey. Your wife needs you, too. *wink, wink*

But what if you aren't George Bailey? What if you're just Ernie Bishop the cab driver? Or Violet Blick? Or Giuseppe Martini? (Played by Frank Faylen, Gloria Grahame, and William Edmunds, respectively). Or what if the people that had stepped in for George were better? What if his brother wouldn't have gone swimming because he had no brother to swim with? What if the kid hired by Mr. Gower noticed the poison and stopped him...and then told the police so the town would have then gotten maybe a better pharmacist, one that doesn't try to poison its residents when he gets a little melancholy? Or what if the navy would have gotten a pilot who wasn't deaf in one ear who would have not only saved the one transport but several others thanks to his supersonic hearing?

What if you meet your guardian angel and you ask to see life if you had never been born and everyone's life is better? Or a large majority? Or even just your family? George Bailey asked a dangerous question and got lucky. He had an opportunity to make his mark on Bedford Falls and he made the best of it. I remember thinking, I can't save anyone from drowning, I can't even swim. How can I question a local apothecary about his cure-alls when I can't even tell my own mother that her macaroni salad has too much mayo in it (and shouldn't have carrots at all, sorry mom)?

I thought of my guardian angel trying to conjure up a scrap of a reason I shouldn't off myself or worse yet... show me everyone in my family and town and how their lives are slightly better.

Showing me my friends with two more trophies on their dresser because they had a left fielder who could hit the cut-off man when the game was on the line. Or showing me my family sitting down to dinner with my middle spot on the crappy, uneven chair left out, as they all seem happier. My brothers would get more attention, my mother is 50 pounds lighter and not limping because in this reality she didn't dislocate her knee on my Mumra action figure, and my dad... well, my dad was a baby boomer dad so 2 kids or 3 kids, it didn't really matter to him much, but without me he would probably be happier since he wouldn't have to waste his Saturday mornings at my soccer games "cheering" me on.

My Clarence didn't do his due diligence and just figured that being born made everything better (what about Hitler, Clarence? Checkmate! Angels always forget about Hitler.) My Clarence keeps searching and struggling to find a family member or friend that would be worse off without me. He shows me my cousin who was born a few months after me thinking that she would be without a friend during family visits. But my Clarence forgot that I played with the boys and joined in on making fun of her and her girlish leanings…I also killed her goldfish and rubbed her Barbie's face on my butt.

I picture my Clarence then taking a break to look into the future so he can show me what I will become, how I will help people when I'm older and that the world needs me when I'm 30... and then realizes that ain't gonna convince me not to jump either. Well, luckily we didn't have raging waters like Bedford Falls. We only had a peaceful lake. My dad had guns but I wouldn't want to leave a mess... plus I didn't know how to load them. I doubt I knew about overdosing on pills, and I definitely would've wussed out on slitting my wrists. I just realized it's hard to kill yourself in small town America when you're ten years old.

Anyway…

I was a ten-year-old during Christmas time arguing with myself about suicide, instead of enjoying the Super Tecmo Bowl and Transformers I got as presents. Also, I never really found an adequate conclusion to the George Bailey Conundrum. Is there one? Now at Christmas I just watch the Rankin and Bass Rudolph 'cuz even though I usually feel like Dolly the doll from The Land of Misfit Toys (who people forget didn't really seem to be a misfit) of whom Producer Arthur Rankin later said she considered herself a misfit because of "low self-esteem and psychological problems," I can't help but forget my troubles when Yukon Cornelius wrestles that bumble.

Classic...

[lorenwilson-blog1]

A200 Digital Portfolio

Prior to this course, the little I knew about restaurants consisted of knowing they are gathering places. I would meet friends, family, acquaintances, etc. at restaurants because they are neutral and comfortable spaces. I had never given much thought to the many events that allowed me to be able to eat at restaurants willingly. These events consisted of riots, love, violence, and creation. But even to this day, public eating spaces continue to hold these sentiments and as of recently, are now a place for controversy. For example, protestors confronted Homeland Security secretary, Kirstjen Nielsen’s dinner at a Mexican restaurant. They disagreed with her policies and the protestors wanted her to know publicly. Historically, there have been many confrontations at restaurants but this is because they are known to be places where different types of people who agree and disagree gather.

Restaurants allow people to express their opinion publicly and hopefully, make an impact on others around them. Also, restaurants are inherently unbiased, the controversy comes from those who are served and occupy the space. The texts that most helped me understand the influence restaurants have on people are the fictional stories. These readings took the main topic of a Module and put it into a semi-realistic fantasy world that depicted real-life events. Some that stood out to me is May Day by Fitzgerald and Sources of Light by McMullan. These two readings had pivotal events in a character’s story happen at restaurants. Character’s had their identity challenged and gained new perspectives by being in an eating space that has different types of people. I think that restaurants today, still reflect this sentiment, either accidentally or purposely. Some eateries embrace social change and others would rather stay away but having a restaurant comes with a sense of responsibility for its influence.

Module 1: Restaurants as Contact Zones

The image shown is a picture of famous chef Emeril at his new restaurant called Emeril’s Delmonico located in New Orleans. This Delmonico’s is not associated with the original restaurants in New York but Emeril was still allowed to use the name in the title. Emeril took it even further with the fact the restaurant he took over was an actual Delmonico’s and all he did was add his name in front. This reminds me of the discussion from the podcast about Delmonico’s and copyright laws. Delmonico’s is associated with high class and elegance and in the 19th century other businesses were using Delmonico’s name and Emeril is doing that same thing today.

https://genius.com/Shinobu-the-dance-at-delmonicos-lyrics

This song is called The Dance at Delmonico’s by Shinobu, released in 2005. This song relates to this modules discussion of Delmonico’s and their impact on the growth of restaurants in America. But the band does not follow th toe historical context of the restaurant, instead, the lyrics follow the storyline of each character in Fitzgerald’s May Day. There were many characters in that fictional story that all had interactions take place at a reunion at Delmonico’s. The song briefly touches on each character and their aftermath after Delmonico’s. This song makes sense in conjunction with the story.

Module 2: Restaurants as Racialized Spaces

https://vimeo.com/46694893

This short film titled Soul Food Junkies looks at how soul food has affected the African American community. Segregation and Jim Crow did not allow Blacks into certain restaurants so they had to make do with the food that was available. Now, soul food restaurants are popular establishments that are visited by many people from various backgrounds. This film relates to Rufus Estes’ and Cleora’s cookbook because these black chefs started publicizing black cooking and their influence possibly turned into soul food.

https://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/21/dining/21cook.html?n=Top%2FReference%2FTimes%20Topics%2FSubjects%2FC%2FCooking%20and%20Cookbooks&_r=0

This article describes the story of the supposed first cookbook published by an African American. Her name is Malinda Russell and she wrote and published a 39-page pamphlet of recipes in 1886. What is interesting about this cookbook is that her recipes are different than, soul food. Soul food is a cultural staple that many black people have adopted but Russell had no trace of traditionally black foods in her cookbook. She was cooking what is traditionally seen as European food. This story relates to this module because even though slavery and segregation black people found a way to get their recipes out there. Also, Rufus Estes is claimed to have published the first black cookbook but this article says otherwise. There is a potential for comparison in recipes in these two cookbooks.

 Module 3: Restaurants as Gendered Spaces

https://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/08/dining/08gend.html

This article describes the experiences of restaurants struggling with outdated gender rules. Typically, at finer establishments, there are untold rules in regards to how to treat female patrons in comparison to male patrons. Restaurant owners today are deciding if keeping these rules is a necessity. The debate becomes a little confusing when some female and male patrons accidentally follow these old rules that restaurants are trying to break. I think this article relates to the discussion of the #MeToo movement in culinary spaces. Kim Severson’s essay describes things that have changed to create a better environment for female chefs but I think that untold rules that question how female patrons might act also needs to change.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kS5oa5IPSX0

 This song is called Kim the Waitress by Material Issue. The lyrics are from the perspective of a customer that is in love with a waitress named Kim. The overall premise of the song is that they want to sleep with her. In the end, the customer admits that they don’t stand a chance with Kim and it bothers them. This song reminds me of the first chapter of Sweetbitter. The main character was trying to get a job as a waitress and during her interview, she noticed some weird sexual advances that the interviewer was trying to make. Even though the song is from the perspective of the customer, it makes me think that Kim is trying to be purposefully sexy, not just for them but to be attractive to all customers and hopefully make more money.

[meowsomepegacorn]

Star Plus most popular and most watched Serial Ishqbaaz brings the story of 3 heros of the Oberoi family. The 3 brothers are terribly totally different, however have an excellent bond. Shivaay, Omkara and Hindu deity ar terribly shut and love one another lots. they're every other’s strength and weakness too. Shivaay loves his business and his brothers. Omkara is Associate in Nursing creator and has nothing to try to to with the business. Hindu deity could be a carefree and amusing guy. he's perpetually busy in gyms and parties. He has no time for business.It is terribly onerous to interrupt the brother’s unity. But, there's a war to settle on the heir among them. Their oldsters ar against one another and running within the heir-ship race. The brothers don't seem to be laid low with their parents’ clashes. Their gran could be a smitten woman, WHO desires the brothers perpetually keep united. The story can gift however the brothers keep united through all the hurdles and external pressures. Ishqbaaz Wiki Story: It is terribly onerous to interrupt the brother’s unity. But, there's a war to settle on the heir among them. Their oldsters ar against one another and running within the heir-ship race. The brothers don't seem to be laid low with their parents’ clashes. Their gran could be a smitten woman, WHO desires the brothers perpetually keep united. The story can gift however the brothers keep united through all the hurdles and external pressures. The introduction of the Oberoi relations is shown. Tej Oberoi is power hungry and desires his son Omkara to become the heir of the Oberoi business. Tej and Hindu deity ar the sons of the late bourgeois Prithviraj Oberoi. Tej is elder son and has dominated the Oberoi empire that completed fifty years of success. Tej and Hindu deity handle the business. Hindu deity wasn't given all rights on the empire. Hindu deity is glad that his son Shivaay is that the eldest one within the new generation, and he would become the legal heir of the business. Tej needs his elder son Omkara to rule the business in order that the ability remains in his hands. The media speculates WHO are Oberoi’s heir. it's determined that whoever will the Maha aarti on Dada ji’s birthday are proclaimed because the heir. Tej calls up Omkara and desires him to try to to the aarti, whereas Shivaay’s mother little finger pressurizes him to return initial. there's a race between the elders, whereas the brothers ar seen living a cool and carefree life. Tej and Hindu deity aim to induce the empire and dislike one another. Hindu deity has some past incident guilt in his heart and stays in his own world typically. Tej has 2 sons Omkara and Hindu deity and one female offspring Priyanka. Tej is married to Jhanvi WHO is Associate in Nursing alcoholic, whereas Hindu deity and his artful married woman little finger have their solely son Shivaay. The cousins share a brotherly bond. they're shown indivisible. they need distinct personalities, and nevertheless they're united. they're near their smitten Dadi and sister Priyanka. The 3 brothers ar powerful and good until they're one and verify to perpetually keep secured. Shivaay, being the eldest could be a accountable guy. He believes in only running the business and taking forward the family bequest. Omkara could be a skilled sculptor whereas Hindu deity could be a sexy, funny, careless and fitness freak. Shivaye, Omkara and Hindu deity arrive for the Maha aarti along. Tej and little finger pressurize their various sons to try to to aarti and gain the heir-ship. Tej’s rivals arrange to besmirch the Oberois by obtaining a person killed within the aarti operate. Shivaay, Omkara and Hindu deity do the Maha aarti along, whereas a person burns himself alive. This gets stunning for the Oberois. Shivaay and Omkara have totally different opinions on the incorrect business ethics and their oldsters covering up the incident. Dadi gets uncertain that Tej and Hindu deity ar accountable behind the man’s death. She makes them swear by keeping a hand on Sanskrit literature. They swear that they weren't concerned within the incident. Later on, Dadi realizes each of her sons song to her and gets regretting. Dadi contains a single would like that her grandsons keep united, in contrast to her sons. Anika’s entry is gorgeous once she is seen performing arts with the children at the temple. Anika stays along with her Bua and a brother Sahil. Anika’s carefree and daring nature is shown simply infront of Shivaay. Shivaay WHO doesn't believe love, meets a socio-economic class lady Anika, WHO seems to be Priyanka’s friend. ​ Shivaay and Anika’s meet turns ugly and he or she leaves a robust impression on his mind. Anika breaks Shivaay’s mirror and returns the money he gave her at the temple. They each develop a instant dislike for every alternative. Hindu deity gets the video of Anika and Shivaay’s automotive breaking incident, and shows the video to Dadi and Omkara. Dadi finds Anika adequate to Shivaay all told terms. Anika’s brother Sahil is disabled and walks with issue. Anika earns living by atiny low scale line business for herself and Sahil. Anika faces a lot of humiliation by her Bua and gets overwhelmed up by Madhuri, Bua’s helper police officer. Bua bribes Madhuri and snatches away Anika’s earnings perpetually. Whenever Anika and Sahil quit, Bua complains concerning Anika capture Sahil and taking him away. Bua threatens Anika to not take Sahil anyplace in order that she will rejoice on Anika’s earnings all her life by victimisation Sahil. On the opposite hand, Oberoi brothers live a lavish, luxurious and tension free life. Everything is at the tip of their toe. they're born made and haven't any cash issues. simply the faux family structure bothers the brothers. Shivaay regrets to own faux relations around him and loses believe love. little finger and Jhanvi have daily arguments reception. little finger needs the empire to return in Shivaay’s hands. Jhanvi is Associate in Nursing alcoholic and tries to cope up along with her sorrows. Tej contains a secretary Shwetlana, WHO is understood by everybody as his mistress. The dangerous equations between elders upsets the brothers, however they don’t let something have an effect on their bonding. Ishqbaaz Overall Review: Everything looks to be properly set within the story. Characters, their distinctness, cast, scenes and on screen chemistry…. It all looks to allow a sensible sense within the show. Ishqbaaz might become Star’s next huge palmy romantic-family drama.So keep visiting our website for more latest news updates about Ishqbaaz and other Star Plus serials on our website Tuaashiqui.com Ishqbaaz Full Episode