#i think thats a more apt description

[3leafedclover]

where....where is towa from i would put him in a blender

slow damage 😳 do not play it unless youre

1. an adult of course

2. tolerant to content that discusses and explores gore, self harm, hardcore bdsm, child trafficking and csa, and incest (all in mature and non-fetishizing ways except for the bdsm and gore cause duh)

[imagines--galore]

||The Thread of Fate|| Part Ten

Summary: Soulmate AU. They say the Thread of Fate connects you to your one true love. It may tangle. It may stretch. But it will never break. Wrapped around your little finger it tightens when it feels your soulmate is close and loosens when they are far. And becomes visible with the colors of your soulmate’s Nation when you finally fall in love with them.

Pairing: Zuko x OroraOC (ATLA)

Rating || Genres || Warnings: T+ Romance. Adventure.

Previous Chapters - Part One, Part Two, Part Three, Part Four, Part Five, Part Six, Part Seven, Part Eight, Part Nine,

A/N: This one is an absolute doozy! Be prepared for a lot of feels people! And a scene that literally popped up in my head as I wrote this. I dunno I just wanted to include it! Please excuse any mistakes I made!

"This place is huge!"

Thats it. Those were the only words Orora could think of to describe Ba Sing Se.

Once they had crossed the Inner Wall she had felt her mouth open in amazement. Rows and rows of houses, as far as the eye could see. The chatter of more then a thousand people echoing in the air as they went about their daily lives. She had never seen so many people in one place. Not even the Northern Water Tribe had this much population.

Iroh chuckled beside her, amused by her reaction. "That is an apt description for it, my dear." They had stepped onto the platform, after making sure they had their belongings with them. They were really only small packs containing objects that had some sort of sentimental value. And money of course.

"Woah!" The young waterbender breathed as she gazed around from the raised platform they were standing on. The wind played gently with her hair, prompting her to push the strands behind her ears. Iroh stood just beside her while Zuko stood on the opposite side. He hadn't said anything the entire train ride, though she knew he had been just as amazed by the sheer magnitude of the city as she was. His eyes had widened slightly. A rather subtle movement, but then again she had started to notice everything subtle about him.

Only because of her observation of him. And not because she had stared at him out of the corner of her eyes on more then one occasion.

"Now! The first thing we should do is get some clothes. After all we are no longer refugees but citizens of Ba Sing Se." Iroh stated, leading the way down the platform with the two teenagers following after him.

"I'll have to find some work to earn money for that." Orora muttered to herself, thinking back on just how little coin she had left. Iroh turned to her, frowning. "And what makes you think I will not buy clothes for you as well my young pupil?"

She stopped short, prompting Zuko to almost walk into her. Orora ignored the glare he threw in her direction as she blinked at her smiling Master.

"Y-you..." She trailed off unable to find words. Iroh's expression turned to one Orora had seem him give Zuko when comforting him. "You are my responsibility Orora, and I care for you just as much as I do my nephew."

They were standing together, the three of them, with Iroh and Orora facing one another and Zuko standing to the side. His attention had been at a nearby weapons shop but a soft sound had him turning his head to look at Orora.

She had a tight grip on the strap of her water satchel, as if to keep her hands from trembling. But that was not what caught his attention. It was the fact that for once her icy blue eyes had a warmth to them he had never seen before. And they were swimming with tears. The soft sound he had heard, was her giving a small gasp as she tried to control her emotions.

Though she was failing at it, because even as he watched, a tear escaped her eye, sliding down her cheek.

Crying people had always been a weakness of his. He had no idea how to deal with them. Crying girls was even worse. But seeing Orora cry, at something so insignificant as his Uncle buying her clothes, had him feeling equal parts awkward and..........concerned.

Laughing softly to himself, Iroh reached out to take her still trembling hand and placed a pouch of coins in it. "Why don't you go ahead and buy your clothes my dear? I'm sure we will all benefit from having a pretty young maid such as yourself as our companion eh Zuko?" That last part was directed at him, prompting the banished prince to snap out of his stupor and stare stupidly at his Uncle.

"Wh-what?" But neither Pupil nor Master heard him as Orora quickly engulfed the old man in an embrace that reminded Iroh of the ones his son would give him as a young boy.

"Thank you...........Uncle." If he was surprised at her calling him that he did not show it. Though he did show his pleasure at being called thusly by her. "Now go buy your new clothes and do something about your hair. I shall meet you both here in two hours. And you also buy anything that catches your fancy."

"Wait! Both?" Zuko barked out. Iroh nodded. "Yes both. This city can be dangerous my boy. Especially for a young lady. And though I know she can protect herself, I would much rather she have you with her. For my peace of mind." He finished giving his nephew a look that clearly said, do not argue.

Pursing his lips, Zuko gave a small nod. Though there was no pleasure in his stance as he took his own pouch of coins from Iroh. "Enjoy yourselves then."

With a cheerful wave and a wink he was off to do his own shopping.

Zuko sighed to himself, pocketing his pouch and turning to Orora who was now tear free and already looking around at the different shops on either side of them.

Good, he preferred her tear-free.

Shaking his head, he pursed his lips before speaking.

"Come on. I think we can find a shop that sells clothes for us both." He had already started to move, prompting Orora to follow him with quick steps to catch up.

While Zuko had been of the opinion that their impromptu shopping spree would be awkward, it was anything but. Orora having never been in a city before, was flitting from one stall to the next shop. Eagerly pouring over the wares the shop keepers were selling, though she didn't buy them. Zuko was left to follow after her, trying to keep up with her surprisingly fast pace.

"Would you slow down!" He finally puffed out after loosing sight of her for a good few minutes, nearly making him panic before he had caught sight of her entering a weapons shop. She turned to look at him, a slightly apologetic look on her face.

"Sorry, I'll try to slow down but I just saw these and they reminded me of the swords you had when we met in the forest." Zuko looked to where she was pointing. And indeed it was a pair of dao swords, much like the ones that had been confiscated from him a good while ago.

Apparently there was a strict rule of no bringing weapons into Ba Sing Se. However you could buy them once you were inside.

A stupid rule really.

Still he had managed to hide the dagger Uncle had given him, but the swords had to go.

"They do look the same." He agreed with her. Before he could stop her, Orora had reached out and was lifting both of the swords from the stand and holding them out for him. "Well try them out. If its a good fit then you can buy them." She suggested giving him a small smile.

Maybe it was the fact that they were back in civilization. Or perhaps it was the interaction she had had with Iroh that had resulted in her being in a pleasant mood. Whatever it was, she had no desire to ruin it by squabbling with Zuko. Besides it wasn't that difficult to be nice to him.

Zuko glanced at her briefly, before reaching out to grasp the handle of the swords. His fingers briefly brushed against Orora's prompting them both to freeze momentarily. But he quickly shook off the feeling, turning his attention to the swords.

The weight was perfect as was the balance. Obviously they were of fine craftsmanship. Feeling that familiarity one felt when picking up a weapon they knew, Zuko swung them around to test further. After a couple more swings he stopped, seemingly satisfied.

Lifting one of the swords to eye level, he stared at the blade, watching his reflection stare back. "Well? What do you think?" Tilting the blade slightly he was able to catch a glimpse of Orora as she stood behind him.

Maybe it was the familiarity of the swords, or perhaps it was the soft yet hopeful look that he caught in Orora's expression which made him give a small nod.

"They're perfect."

                                           ————————–

The next step was finding new clothes.

And as soon as they entered the shop each teenager was whisked away by an employee. Orora was guided towards the female section of the shop, while Zuko went the opposite way.

A little annoying since he was supposed to be keeping an eye on her. However he did keep a sharp ear out, in case she called out for help. He made no complaint as the shop assistant began to pull out clothes that would be perfect for someone his size. Zuko stared dismally at the various shades of browns and greens that greeted him. He missed the red, black and gold colors of his Nation. For a brief moment he wandered if he would ever get to wear them again.

The thought had a sting of bitterness running through him, prompting him to pick out the first garment the assistant showed him. And he would've bought it as it was if the Assistant hadn't insisted that he alter it to his size. Something about the shop not looking good if he sold frumpy looking clothing. It would take some time though, so Zuko marched to the entrance of the shop to sit in one of the waiting chairs.

With his arms crossed and a grumpy expression on his face, any passerby would assume he was there against his will.

While Zuko seemed to be having a miserable time, Orora was having the time of her life. She had always adored dressing up, as typically feminine as it was and while she would've preferred to dress in the blue of her Nation, she wasn't opposed to wearing green so long as it got her out of her baggy clothing. She figured she didn't have to hide the fact that she was a girl in the city so, why not go all out?

"This color would look lovely against your complexion." The assistant, who had introduced herself as Hana, placed the green fabric against her shoulder to better assess the color alongside her skin. Like any member of the Water Tribe, Orora's complexion was darker then of those around her. And given that she had been traveling under the sun for so long, it had only darkened more. The color did stand out, and the fabric was so soft.

The young waterbender hummed. "Well I have an idea in mind. If I could explain it to you, would you be able to find something for me?" Hana grinned. "Its always good to have a customer who knows exactly what they want." She praised, picking up a writing utensil and paper to write down Orora's instructions.

"What did you have in mind?" She asked, looking like a woman on a mission. Orora grinned.

                                           ————————–

Fifteen minutes later, she walked towards the waiting area with Hana beside her.

"We have everything you just asked for Orora. I just have to alter it to your measurements, but that won't take long." Hana said with a reassuring smile to which Orora nodded. "Thank you for all your help Hana. If I may ask for one small request."

So saying, she quickly darted forward grabbing Zuko by the arm, and pulling him from his chair to stand beside her. Zuko, who had been busy examining his new swords, and pretending not to eavesdrop, was more so surprised at the sudden motion that there was no resistance on his part.

"My friend and I have to be at a dinner party tonight, but we do not have a place to bath or clean up. Do you know any bath houses around here?"

There was no way she was about to wear her new clothes without cleaning herself up first. She hadn't had a chance to bathe since the desert, a thought that had her shivering in disgust. Zuko glanced at her. "Is that your subtle way of saying I stink?" He asked to which Orora smirked.

"Subtle? I must be loosing my touch. I meant it to be more direct." She grinned at him before turning her attention back to the softly laughing Hana. "Luckily for you two my brother owns a bath house. And it is not so far from here." She moved to the door, gesturing for the duo to follow. "Just go down this street then take a right. First door on the left." She instructed. "I shall have both of your clothes delivered there within the hour."

"Thank you." The ever polite Orora said, even as she poked her elbow into Zuko's stomach to remind him to do the same. He did so, albeit in a rather grumpy manner. Still it was better or nothing.

Once they had paid for their clothes, the two set off down the street as Hana had instructed.

"You know we could've cleaned up at the new place we will be staying at." Zuko suggested, to which Orora gave him a disgusted look. "Zuko, we're filthy. We've been traveling for days. If you want to wait and dirty your new clothes, go right ahead." She made a hand gesture to that effect, but s topped midway as her blue eyes caught sight of something.

Zuko followed her line of sight and groaned loudly. "I have to buy one more thing." So saying Orora quickly made her way to the display of pretty hair accessories that had caught her eye. She yanked Zuko along with her, not having dropped the hold she had on his arm where she had looped it through his earlier.

A fact that neither of the them noticed.

At least Orora wasn't like other girls who would spend hours poring over pretty trinkets only to not buy them in the end. It wasn't even ten minutes later that they were once again making their way towards the bath houses, with Orora admiring the new hair comb she had bought.

"Isn't it pretty?" She sighed, watching how the blue stone set in the middle of the comb caught the mid-morning sunlight and shimmered beautifully. "And its so detailed, just look at the dragon." She held it to his eye level. He gave it a brief once over and, reluctantly, nodded. It was a pretty piece of jewelry there was no denying that.

"I thought I should get something blue to represent my Nation." Tucking away the comb in her pouch. Glancing up she saw him clench his jaw even tighter. At this rate he would grind his teeth to dust. "Maybe you should do the same?" She suggested her voice soft as they reached the bath houses.

His gaze snapped in her direction, startled and surprised. That was certainly not what he had been expecting her to say. Glancing around from the corner of her eye, Orora met his gaze with a look of understanding. Reaching out, almost hesitantly, she grasped his wrist, stepping forward so she could whisper the next words to him. "I don't condone what they have done. But they are still your people, and I know you miss your home."

She had to lift herself up on her toes slightly to be able to whisper to him properly. The action allowed the front of her chest to press against his slightly. To any onlooker it would look to be nothing more then a lover's embrace. To Zuko, the barely there embrace, was one of comfort. Something he did not realize he had needed for so long. He closed his eyes, but only briefly, before he gave Orora a small nod. While he wouldn't voice his appreciation for her act, he could acknowledge it.

Orora smiled softly before she stepped back. Turning she quickly walked into the bath house, and after a moment Zuko followed.

                                           ————————–

Steam curled from the water as Orora stepped into the square space in a robe, having gotten rid of her clothes as soon as she could. Locking the door securely behind her, she turned her attention to the tub in the middle of the room. It was just big enough for her so she eagerly shrugged off the robe and settled into the warm water. A sigh of utter contentment fell from her lips, feeling a sense of comfort as the water surrounded her. Quickly submerging her head, the girl picked up the sweet scented soap that had been left for her and began to scrub her hair and body. The water itself had some sweet smelling oils in them, and if it were up to her, she would stay there for hours.

Once done cleaning herself, she bended the water separating whatever dirt she had scrubbed off herself. Casting the dirt aside, she allowed the water to settle back down into the tub. Orora had barely leaned back to rest her head against the back of the tub when the sound of voices from the other side of the wall had her listening in curiously.

"You can wash up here." Said an unfamiliar voice. She heard the sound of a door opening on the other side. Make sense that the room next to her was also a bathroom. "I'll leave your clothes outside the door once they arrive."

"Thank you!"

The waterbender sat up straight, water sloshing around her as a small squeak of surprise fell from her lips. A sound the echoed in the otherwise quiet space, and since the wall on her left had more then ample space between itself and the ceiling, it was clearly heard by the person who had just entered the bathing chamber on the other side.

"Orora?"

It was Zuko.

Spirits help her! Zuko was in the room next to her own.

The thought alone had a blush stealing across her cheeks, and she could feel it as it traveled down her neck to her shoulders. How that was even possible she had no idea.

"Orora is something wrong?" His voice sounded closer now, like he was standing right next to the wall. And his voice sounded urgent. Clearing her throat she shook her head, even though he couldn't see her. "No, no everything is fine." Her voice sounded strange even to her ears.

On the other side of the wall, Zuko's brief flash of panic dissipated and the reality of the situation started to set in. He blushed just as brilliantly as Orora did, a fact that was unknown to both of them.

"I'm going to ask for another chamber." Zuko stated, already moving towards the door. The sound of water reached his ears followed by a two words that made his heart stop. "No, wait." Silence followed her soft exclamation as he waited for her to continue. Finally, after a rather lengthy silence, in which Orora was berating herself for speaking out like that, she spoke. "These two were the only bath chambers available on such short notice. Not to mention they'll charge extra since they have to warm the water again and get a new chamber ready so just.............stay."

Despite her affirmation and assurance, there was no denying just how awkward the situation was. Orora could hear every splash of water as Zuko settled into his tub, and Zuko was acutely aware of the fact that she could hear everything. So he just decided to sit in the water once he had hastily scrubbed himself clean.

The one fact that neither of them were even allowing themselves to think on was the state of undress they were both in. To distract herself, Orora began to create small patterns using her water bending, while Zuko made the water as hot as possible without letting it evaporate completely.

The silence and the awkwardness of it was slowly grating at Orora's nerves. She had always hated silence, it reminded her too much of the time when she would spent all those hours in her room while her father entertained guests. Why? Because a proper young lady said her greetings before excusing herself to her rooms.

Her patience only last five minutes before she finally snapped. "I believe we have reached a whole new stage of awkwardness then." Zuko didn't respond, though her acute hearing and bending sense did pick up on the water moving. Indeed, Zuko had been a little startled at hearing her voice, having supposed that the two of them would remain quiet for the remainder of their bath.

"And since they can't get any more awkward I'm just going to come out and say something I've been thinking since we reached Ba Sing Se." More silence, and for once Zuko was sure she actually wanted him to speak, as opposed to all the times she had told him to stay quiet.

"Whats that?" His tone was soft and his voice low, matching her in almost perfect pitch as he leaned his head back against the back of the tub, looking at the ceiling above.

"I know that we have a lot of differences between us." The statement had the young prince letting out a small unexpected chuckle. "Thats putting it mildly." He interrupted her, he could practically picture her pursing her lips at being interrupted. "Well yes, but I don't want to make you any angrier then you already ar-"

"Who said I was angry?" Zuko protested, half rising from his position to glare at the wall. Clenching her fists Orora shook away her annoyance before continuing. "As I was saying, I think tha-"

"I can feel other emotions beside anger you know. I'm not angry all the time an-HEY!" His exclamation was followed by a loud splash as the bubble of water Orora had bended over the space between the wall separating them splashed on his head. As Zuko spluttered and shook his hair out of his eyes, she started again.

"I know that we have a lot of differences between us, and that we would never see eye to eye. And I'm sure not a day will go by where you do not vex me, or I annoy you in some form." Hugging her legs to her chest, the young waterbender hoped the Fire Nation prince wouldn't reject her offer of peace.

"But since we will be living together until...........well we don't know when." Zuko's heart twinged at the reminder, but he stayed quiet. "I thought we should have a truce of some kind? Where we don't fight, at least not all the time, and try to get along."

That dreaded silence once more. Though this time it was heavier, weighing down on her just as much as it weighed down on him. She heard him stand up, prompting a sigh of defeat to echo in the two rooms. She could hear him as he opened the door and took his clothes where they rested on the floor. Zuko's mind raced as he dried himself off and began to pull on his new clothes.

After a few minutes, and accepting that perhaps she had humiliated herself enough, the girl quickly stood from her bath tub, bending the water from her body. Her new clothes rested on the floor in front of her door the same as Zuko. She quickly took them inside and unwrapped the items. Despite the sorrow tugging at her heart, she gave a small smile at the sight of her new clothes.

They were perfect.

Neither of them spoke as the dressed. Though Zuko finished first, and quickly exited the chamber. Orora took a few extra minutes, adjusting her clothes properly, before moving to stand in front of the small mirror and combing her hair with her new comb. Picking up a small section of her hair from her temple, she adjusted them so that she could place the hair comb through the strands. Now with the loose unruly tendrils out of her face, she was able to see her face properly in the mirror.

Satisfied with her appearance, she exited the bath just as she finished adjusting her water satchel, and promptly bumped into Zuko who had been standing right outside her door.

Her hands came up to steady herself, which he quickly caught to keep her from falling. Whatever insult that had been about to fall from her lips vanished when she saw who she had walked into.

Ice blue eyes widened, as she took in his newly dressed state. The clothing suited him, but what caught her eye in particular was how long his hair had gotten and how the strands at the front fell over his forehead. She had to physically restrain herself from reaching out and pushing them back. Not only because she wanted to feel how soft his hair was, but also because she wanted to see his pretty gold eyes properly.

Eyes that were now taking her in. The first time Zuko had met her she had been wearing her blue parka that had been blood stained and rumpled from her run in with the Fire Nation soldiers. Other then that, he had only seen her in shapeless short kimonos and pants that were dull in color and hid the fact that she was a girl.

The outfit she wore now did not hide any aspect of her being a girl at all.

She had opted for a light green Cheong dress with no sleeves to allow her arms to move better. The shirt she wore under it had long sleeves though, sitting snugly against her skin. The sides of the dress opened starting from her hips down the entire length of the dress which stopped a few inches below her knees. The edges of the dress had a pretty swirling design to add a hint of flare to it. Underneath it she had chosen a pair of pants that was dark green, the ends of which was tucked into her new leather calf length shoes.

She had styled her clothes exactly like the fashion of her Nation, except in green and lighter in material.

It had been perfect, though the dress was still a little loose on her. So Orora had taken the green sash the garments had come tied in and wrapped it around her waist. Not only did the dress look much better, but the belt accentuated her waist and made her look almost as if her body had an hourglass shape.

And while Orora was not the most vain girl, she did like looking pretty.

And for once, after so many months, she looked, smelled and felt pretty.

And Zuko was acutely aware of all three facts as he continued to stare at her. It wasn't unnerving in any form. There was no malice in his eyes. Only an emotion that she had never seen on his face before. Which was why she was having a hard time to place it.

She could puzzle over it later, she figured as Zuko released her hands and stepped back. Blue met gold before the latter disappeared behind closed lids briefly. But once they opened, there was a determined look in them.

And Orora saw the reason for it when her eyes dropped to the hand he held out to her. A beat of silence, in which Orora felt her breath hitch in her throat and a bright smile to bloom across her face as she reached out to grasp his hand between both of her own. And this time, when blue met gold, Zuko gave a small smile back.

"Truce."

                                           ————————–

The two teenagers had barely reached their destination when Iroh suddenly appeared at their side. Holding a vase full of flowers.

"I just want our place to look nice, after all, we have a rather pretty young lady living with us, do we not?" He gave Zuko a nudge with his elbow, though his smile was directed at Orora who blushed and smiled in return.

"You look lovely my dear." He complimented, though it would seem Zuko had reverted back to his moody self as he spoke. "This city is a prison. I don't want to make a life here." He sounded so bleak and hopeless about his situation that Orora frowned.

"We don't have a choice." She kept her voice soft so that no one would overhear her. "This was the only way to ensure our survival in the long run."

Iroh, sensing his pupil's rising annoyance with his nephew, quickly spoke. "Life happens wherever you are, whether you make it or not." Without pausing for breath he continued. "Now come on, I found us some new jobs, and we start this afternoon!"

Zuko stopped short, staring in disbelief. "A job?!"

Orora snorted to herself, clapping a hand over her mouth to keep from laughing, earning a glare from Zuko. Watching a Prince who had probably never worked a day in his life do an actual job?!

Oh, she was in for a treat, she thought smiling wickedly.

                                          ————————–

It came as no surprise when Iroh led them to a tea shop.

"And here I was thinking you had gotten a job at an apothecary shop." The young waterbender teased as she followed after her Master. Iroh simply grinned in reply. The two of them didn't bother to see if Zuko followed. He stood outside the shop, staring glumly at it before heaving a resigned sigh and following after his two companions.

It wasn't long before Pao, the shop owner, had handed them matching aprons and was telling them everything they needed to know about the shop. He prattled on as Orora finished tying the string behind her back.

"Argh, ridiculous." Zuko muttered under his breath, looking just as annoyed as he sounded. Orora nudged him with her elbow where she stood at his side. "Be grateful that we will have a steady income. Do you even know how hard it is to get a job in such a big city?"

He turned to glare at her. "This is humiliating. I'm not meant to be working as a servant. I'm supposed to have people working for me." He gritted through clenched teeth.

The girl gave him an unimpressed look. "Well I'm not meant to be here at all. I'm supposed to be married by now and living a miserable life." She caught sight of the surprised look that crossed his features, but continued to speak. "I wouldn't trade my current predicament for anything in the world." With that she turned her attention to the shop owner, who was still speaking with Iroh.

After a good few minutes of feeling Zuko's stare at her, she looked at him, raising her eyebrow in question. "You were supposed to get married?" His voice sounded hoarse and strange, even to his own ears. Orora nodded before giving a shrug. "It was arranged by my father. I had no say in it." She stated shortly, her eyes flashing with that iciness that served as a reminder to him to never cross her.

"Uh, does this possibly come in a larger size?" Iroh, who had been struggling to tie his apron finally spoke up. Pao gave a nod. "I have extra string in the back. Have some tea while you wait!" Before leaving he quickly poured hot tea into three cups and handed them out to his new employees.

Orora glanced down at the contents of her cup, making a face at the questionable color of the liquid. Iroh seemed to share her sentiment since he barely took a sip of it before his face contorted to one of disgust. He held the cup away from his body, as if it had done him some personal offense. "Blech! This tea is nothing more than hot leaf juice!" He declared. Zuko gave his Uncle a dead-panned look. "Uncle, that's what all tea is."

But the old man wasn't having it as he gave a look of utter disappointment and heartbreak. "How could a member of my own family say something so horrible?!" He exclaimed before a look of determination crossed his face. "We'll have to make some major changes around here."

"Well lets hope our boss doesn't fire us for taking over his shop." Orora stated softly, setting aside her cup and glancing around the bare shop.

"Though this place could do with some decorating."

Zuko groaned. Between Iroh's fanatic obsession with tea, and Orora's stubbornness to get her own way, he knew he was going to have his hands full.

                                          ————————–

Tag List - @wavesofchaos​ @violet-potter​ @rennysketch​ @emma-andrea1 @lovesammikinzz @fuzzyfestcat @msrawog @notsaelty

[strawberries-and-summer-days]

NICE TO OFFICIALLY MEET YOU ‧₊˚ ☾. ⋅

| percy jackson x popstar au

| au masterlist ☽

warnings: swearing and i think thats just about it!

a/n: writers block hit so hard guys its not even funny apt. anyway hope you enjoy pt 3!! im also using show! clarisse as my description

"LIA!!!!" you screech when you storm into the apartment. when she doesn't reply you get even more pissed. who the hell wakes someone up at 2 am tell them they desperately need to come over to their house now because its an emergency and then proceed to lock them out in the cold for half a goddamn hour.

"lia i swear to god im going to kick your fucking ass back to london if you don't come out here right now," you yell not even caring at this point if you wake anyone up.

"heyyy bestie," lia says coming out of the kitchen with a smile. "so glad you could make it."

from the threatening look on your face, her smile quickly fades. "ok, ok so i know its early-"

"its two-fucking-am lia, you're so very lucky that i don't kill you for this because for some reason, i've grown attached to your need self."

"i'm irreplaceable," she says. "anyway thats not why i called you here, i met some people on the subway the other day who want to meet you."

"you called me here.... to meet fans?" you say in a deathly calm tone. "lia... ITS 2:30 IN THE MORNING COULDN'T THIS WAIT UNTIL I DUNNO LIKE TEN?" you yell launching after her.

"no it couldn't wait! because this is a secret meeting, huhhh? how cool is that?" lia says running away from you into the living room. you follow after her determined to actually kill the little shit but stop short when you see three people standing and watching the ordeal.

two girls and a boy - the boy is jumping up and down with barely restrained excitement, the blonde girl is smiling, and the final girl is just watching with barely restrained boredom.

"y/n, this is grover, clarisse and annabeth." lia motions to the three of them.

you smile as politely as one can at 2:30 am and say hi back. the boy - grover - is still practically buoyant when you look at him, and its generally concerning how much energy he has.

"soo, uh what's up?" clarisse says awkwardly.

"yeah y'know nothing much, just being dragged out of bed at 2 o'clock in the morning to meet some people- by the way does he ever stop jumping?" you point to a still jumping grover. "like dude its wayy to early to be this energetic."

"no. unfortunately he's like this all the time," the brunette - clarrise - says.

"i'm sorry," grover interrupts, "im just such a huge fan of you. and i would've gotten into trouble if i had told my friend we were meeting you so thats why its at such an awful hour."

"your friend doesn't like me?"

"... he's not your biggest fan thats for sure."

☾. ⋅

yn.official

liked by underovergrover, lia.mandel, rileywest maisiehpeters, gracieabrams and 1, 268, 941 others

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lia.mandel girls night was fun!! @/rileywest sad ur leaving again

riley.west im afraid london calls babes i'll see you girls when i get back

yn.official can't wait 🤍

user1 OMGGG SHE'S IN THE STUDIO?? AHHH

user2 what is with the studio pic?!?!?!?

user3 grover (one of percy's friends) liked the post they're totally fucking

user4 ew can you not be so gross?? just leave percy and y/n alone

user5 im dyinggg until my show!! only 3 to go ahhh

user6 THE STUDIO PIC?? AND ON TOP OF THAT THE TOUR ENDING AND PERCYY/N RUMOURS?? my heart can't take this anymore.

☾. ⋅

percyjackson

liked by underovergrover, chris.rodriguez, lukecastellan, clarisse.la.rue, the.annabethchase, lia.mandel, rileywest and 863, 459 others

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user1 NO NO PLS NOT THE MATCHING CAPTIONS ONE MINUTE WITHIN EACH OTHER ITS SO OBVIOUS

user2 he's so hot it hurts guys

user3 THE POSTS?!?!? AT THE SAME TIME!!!!

underovergrover that was an awful party man just thought i should let you know

percyjackson thanks g man i had absolutely no idea maybe next time don't text me abt how awful it is in front of the hosts

user4 THE MATCHING CAPTIONS AND THEIR FRIEND LIKING THE OTHERS POSTS. MAKE IT MORE OBVIOUS WOULD YOU??

user5 i ship them so hard fr

user6 yeah but there is literally ANOTHER girl in the post

the.annabethchase i wonder what amazing girl is in the second photo...

☾. ⋅

"fucking y/n," percy grumbles. "i cannot do a single thing without her showing up," he scoffs throwing the phone down onto the car seat beside him. he's currently sat outside a prestigious event - for what? who knows - contemplating whether he should go in because he knows for a fact the-person-who-shall-not-be-named is in there.

sighing he picks his phone up again and gets out of the car heading towards the bustling entryway to the building. men and women in fancy dresses and suits line the hallways as and elevators as he makes his way to the rooftop.

grover and luke are already here so his first goal is to find them, avoid being sucked into any weird business deals and do not under any circumstances run into y/n.

the elevator opens and he moves out onto the rooftop, the cool breeze brushing his face, the smell of alcohol and perfume fills the air. its almost peaceful as he makes his way to the edge of building leaning on the railing to take in the view.

"quiet a view isn't it?" a voice comes from beside him.

aw fuck.

he spins around and comes face to face with the one person he was determined to avoid.

"nice to officially meet you percy jackson," you say holding out your hand.

he takes it to be polite, "right back at you y/n l/n."

☾. ⋅

☾. ⋅

TAGLIST‧₊˚ ☾. ⋅ [if you're name is white it mean i couldn't tag you]

@lauptimist, @itzmeme, @mariaaaaaahhhh, @paankhaleyaar, @maybxlle,

@lara20aral, @cxp1d, @user-3113s-blog, @pleasingregulus,

@avihashearts4lix, @inlovewithmorales, @brokecollegebitch, @user-3113s-blog, @officiallyalbino

@gloryhaddock [if you want to be added just let me know!]

[petewentzisblack1312]

something that im curious about is i've seen so many people say that pete is a great lyricist and i agree but....why don't ppl say songwriter? its just confusing to me. do you know the difference btwn a songwriter vs lyricist...why do ppl always say lyricist involving pete but not songwriter? i just assume that when a person writes lyrics, they are writing words to a song, which makes them a songwriter! i just would like an explanation:)

to me songwriting is primarily writing and arranging the music, at least thats what the career generally entails. like when someone is a songwriter in hollywood but not a performer they will write the music and arragement and sell that, but i dont think lyrics are usually part of the deal. and i think that does include the melody for the lyrics, but i writing lyrics is a mostly separate but closely related thing. i think pete is a good songwriter when he is with other good songwriters bc according to the guys hes very good at recognizing whats good and what works, and his lyrics are a very big part of fall out boy but i think he is not primarily a songwriter, and that lyricist is a more apt description.

[wishbowl]

Im Glad My Mom Died

J. MCCURDY

About This book is essentially an entire life story of jennettes life uptil the current times and its one of the most raw and honest works of text ive read in a long time.

Review Its such a trip and her descriptions are a chiefs kiss and i dont think i have a single bad thing to say about this book except to say i almost prefer the audiobook version over the actual book only because the entire book is read by jennette herself and all the particular influctions of tones on the characters and the way she says her words just adds so much more dimension to the already phenomenal read. Ive read a looked at a few reviews and watched some of her press interviews for the book and a thing that really resonated with me is when she told drew barrymore in her show that she writes as if everyone that she writes about is already dead and thats honestly one of the most apt descriptions of her book. When i read this it felt like shes a writer, like this was what she was meant to do and hell if she writes anymore id read it all because this was just so good and i know her raw talent is more than a one off. Not really a review but really good read and definitely staying somewhere in the top fives of memoirs.

[tatakaeeren]

first off i also just wanna say the fact that you continually ask me questions on stuffs means a lot to me adfadfadfasd it soothes me to know my extrovert rambling personality doesn't cause too much annoyance to you asdfasd <333333

BUT ALSO ALSO I WATCHED THIRD EPISODE BC I'VE BEEN PUTTING OFF BC PAIN AND WELL YAH PAIN *cries into pillow*

NOW SHOUJO RECS WOOP WOOP (i will give u the links of where i read them too ^^)

Sesame salt and pudding- https://bato.to/series/81088/sesame-salt-and-pudding

so basically a 20 year old and a 40 year old drunkenly marry each other. I PERSONALLY love age gap stories and the 40 year guy is just *screams into pillow bc of hotness* but also the way they handle situations and everything is amazing the female lead is strong and confident in herself and not just a wet napkin

Loving Yamada at Lv999- https://bato.to/series/98627/loving-yamada-at-lv999-official

SO GOOD. idk if you've read it or seen the anime but i LOVE KUUDERES AND YAMADA IS THAT SO ARGH i love. older female lead (i think they're like two years apart but people were upset that she was like 21 and he was like 19 so i have to say that even tho it isn't creepy or anything BUT YAH)

wotakoi: love is hard for an otaku- https://wotaku-manga.com/

SO GOOD PART TWO. this is like grown adult romance i would say since they're all coworkers and like it's definitely the "i am dating my best friend" (literally) trope which i absolutely love and it's refreshing if you need a break for like high school romance yk?

My reason to die- it's a webtoon but you don't have to pay for it whoop whoop

PAIN. it's still ongoing updates every tuesday and it's SO GOOD BUT OH MY GOD THE PAIN IT CAUSES *screams in a corn field* bc like the male lead just loves her so so much and the way the author portrays like the little acts of affection through simple touches and whatnot is FUCKING AMAZING.

Here you are- https://bato.to/series/70482/here-u-are

I SHOULD SAY IT'S BL and i know that's not everyone's fancy but i personally think that like even if you someone isn't a fan of the genre to give it a try. There's no like nsfw outright, hints to it but it's not done in like a fetish way. I've cried my eyes out to this one because the characters all just feel so real. the author did an amazing job just making the characters come alive and so even if someone is like ew bl PLEASE give it a chance.

Love for Sale- https://mangabuddy.com/love-for-sale

yes this is another BL. Let me explain. there are nsfw scenes and whatnot but like, the CHARACTERS THE CHARACTERS. another one where I've cried to. The "top" for lack of a better description is somewhat aromantic, but not like oh I'm toxic man way but like in a. that's just the way he is because he can't figure out what love even is, so he uses his money to show people love because that's the only thing that makes sense to him. I am not giving an apt description but seriously, it's amazing as well, like you really get invested in the characters and i just love it.

THATS ALL FOR NOW SORRY IF YOU'VE READ SOME OF THESE BUT HOPEFULLY NOT ALL

-lavender anonieee

Hi how are you doing today?? i'm glad you feel that way! I ask you a bunch of questions because I am genuinely interested in your answers! you have different and fun opinions + I can learn more about new anime or manga and I get to know you more 😉

Oh come here let me hug you because after the third ep, we all needed a hug, a warm blanket and mentally staying at the beach with them.. let's forget the other half of the ep happened 😭

Thank you for the recommendations and the link!!! I didn't know two of them (Sesame salt and pudding and love for sale) so I definitely added them to my list!! thank you for including the summary, they really picked my interest thanks to that! 💖

[ask-dgs-221bbakerstreet]

((since i’m still kind of busy, have some text interactions between trucy and athena during the course of their adventure.))

THEIR SEPARATION

trucy the goose-y : athena!! i know you just left, but how’s mr reaper doing? (^-^)

cyked out : Im gonna be like completely honest here truce. Hes SO awkward. Like chief prosecutor edgeworth level of emotionally constipated plus simons PLUS apollo kind of awkward. Im going to implode trucy

trucy the goose-y : have you tried not doing that? (*'ω'*) also, maybe YOU’RE the one pulling an apollo!

cyked out : Impossible. Im too cool and sexy for that!

trucy the goose-y : hehe, fair enough! i’m sure he’ll warm up to you, whether it be by fate or by force!!

cyked out : Pretty apt description actually

trucy the goose-y : athena, that is literally how you make most friendships... (ㆀ˘･з･˘)

cyked out : Thats why i agreed with you!!!

KLINT BREAKDOWN + SUSATO ARREST

cyked out : Been a while since any updates. You holding up over there truce?

trucy the goose-y : not that well, actually!

cyked out : Yeah. Not doing too hot over here either :/

cyked out : Mr van ziekss brother had a bit of a breakdown. I cant get to him in that state so were just hoping for the best at this point. On the plus side were playing mario kart!

trucy the goose-y : did he tell you about susie?

cyked out : Hold on

cyked out : Fuck. Yeah he did. Just now

trucy the goose-y : it’s total pile of bullshit!! as if susie could ever try to murder her brother!

cyked out : Oh definitely. Its making my skin crawl! Like you just know that this could be racially motivated as well. I dont think this era was particularly kind to people like us

trucy the goose-y : i’m going to be honest i’m trying really really hard not to just break out susie from jail right now. this whole situation is fucking awful!!!

cyked out : Not to be rude truce. But youre not usually That invested in the lives of our clients. I mean you care but you dont let it affect your emotional state. Whats up?

trucy the goose-y : i’m just… MAD! i hate seeing family get hurt, athena. i hate it i hate it i hate it I HATE IT!!!

trucy the goose-y : i miss daddy and apollo.

cyked out : Me too trucy

cyked out : If it helps im going to be on the prosecutors bench with mr van zieks! We’ll find out the truth and get the real culprit on that witness stand!

trucy the goose-y : hehehehe, pulling a papa?

cyked out : More like pulling a simon actually!

trucy the goose-y : hope you have better luck in finding stuff out!!! ☆彡

cyked out : God i hope so. Ciao!! <3

((that’s it!! hope you enjoyed the little snippets of their interactions!!))

- gramarye siblings anon

.

[st4rguy]

1, 4, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 23, 29, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 48, 68, 88, 89, 92, 93, 98 for the homestuck thing ^^ feel free to skip anything if u want lol

@sleepy-kitty-boy lets gooooo sorry this took so long answers under the cut

original post -> st4rguy.tumblr.com/post/743052789002977280

1: When did you first get into Homestuck? around mid-October last year, I think I had started reading previously but got like. 20 pages in.

4: Ever made your own chumhandle? yeah, I have, it's cosmopoieticQuestant. idk if it's a good one and I don't use it for anything but l like big fancy words and its abbreviation would be CQ and because I'm a fucking nerd that makes me happy. uhh cosmopoietic is a word I really like it means universe-creating so yeahg 👍

10: Ever drank Faygo? No, I have not ever :P

11: Favorite Alpha kid? mmm that's a tough choice but probably Jane?? I find her fascinating like I could write an essay about her.

12: Favorite Alpha troll? Meenah. she's funny, spunky and fun to draw. I like to give her an anglerfish antenna just because why not. Her and (Vriska)'s relationship is. fascinating. Her Aranea are adorable tho.

17: Favorite Beta kid? Egbert probably? I love them equallyyyy

18: Favorite Beta troll? uahgh. thats difficult. honestly, I don't know.

19: Favorite Beta character overall? I simply could not pick.

23: Favorite guardian? MOM. ROXY. ok like. y'ever think about like. how she likely knew she was going to die. And she basically raised Joey and Jude from when she was a teenager. and we don't know how their story ends yet. I think about her quite a bit.

29: Favorite Friendsim character? HAVE MY LIST: CIRAVA, BRONYA, SKYLA, POLYPA, KONYYL, TYZIAS, AZDAJA, TIRONA, MARSTI, CHARUN, WANSHI, DARAYA AAAAND LANQUE. <- troll call order btw. I loooove them

33: Favorite pale ship? I'll have to go with the classic and say meowrails. you can't beat them.

34: Favorite pitch ship? JANEVRIS. rarepair blast attack!

35: Favorite flushed ship? scratch n sniff perhaps. idk sure I like em.

36: Favorite ashen ship? good question i love the Ashen quadrant I do not know

37: Favourite vacillating ship? KONYYL AND AZDAJA. I know no one cares but I love them. idk if they "vacillate" per se if you ask me they have like. whatever the signless and the disciple had going on. KONYYL LITERALLY SHARES HER THEME WITH THE DISCIPLE.

48: Zodiac troll? Are you happy with them?: I'm born on the cancer-leo cusp so Karkat or Nepeta I love those guys

68: Classpect you identify with currently? uhhh page of space probably. I'm bad at classpects but it fascinates me nonetheless.

88: Favorite Homestuck fics? Early June by RoseGardenofEden, Detective Pony by sonnetstuck and Pilot Light, Pale Rapture by purplebard (series) to name a few

89: Favorite Homestuck fanartists? missbehaviourOuO, conceptofjoy, tgcg, dammarchy211, teethcritter, serfuzzypushover, and like a bunch more

92: Favorite typing quirk? MEENAH FEFERI OR NEPETA. I LOVE PUNS. THEY INFECTED ME WITH THEIR STUPID PUNS. and they are also just cool 👍

93: Favorite MSPFA? burning down the house! idk if it counts really it's not hosted on mspfa but that's probably the most apt description and I think it's really cool and would highly recommend it

98: What characters do you relate most to? Aradia maybe? I tend to go through spells where I feel really detached and apathetic. yk. depression. but uh that's kinda heavy! I also am fascinated by dead things, as well as diseases and fungus and bugs and shit like that but they kinda scare me.

[fallinforgyu]

Daisy back with crush update!

So tonight us being the honors geeks we are we have little debate nights for fun every time week and tonight was one of them and lowkey I think my friend knows I like him even tho I haven’t explicitly said so bc well she’s not stupid but like I should also give the audience a more apt description of him so everyone can feel my pain.

He has a voice deep as fuck, slightly deeper than Felix

He is 198 cm (six five)

And he’s built like mingyu from seventeen after close inspection

Now.

So when I was at his table we had two of his guy friends in between us but like even when he was talking to them about the topics he would only look away to his other friends in between us for a brief moment before solely making eye contact with me, despite the fact that I wasn’t saying much because the topic was economics ish and while interesting I am not well versed in it. I think he knows eye contact with him makes me shy bc even when we were sitting next to each other he would like solely kinda stare at me even tho I would look elsewhere bc his gaze makes me FLUSTERED (mind u I’m peak extrovert so like for a person to make me like this is RARE IF EVER) and like I know this is all like nothing but it also like idk meant a lot to me bc like the fact that even tho I wasn’t saying much and his attention was quite blatantly more on me than the two people he was technically having the conversation with and mind you this whole thing lasted a solid 3 hours and he couldn’t go get dinner with us bc he had more hw than we did but like when I texted him to come and just in general he never takes longer than five minutes to reply to my texts ever since I got his number bout a month ago but yes there’s more but I sleepys and my friends were saying I should ask him to like play videogames this weekend to relax just the two of us but that thought makes my heart race legitimately race wihejejwjwhwjwjw OK NIGHT HOPE THIS WASNT DUMB

-sleepy daisy anon

BESTIE. YOU HAVE GOT TO GO FOR IT OH MY GOD HE LITERALLY SOUNDS SO FUCKING HOT AND IT ALSO SOUNDS LIKE HE LIKES YOU A LOT????

constantly looking at someone even when they’re not that involved in the conversation you’re in?? THATS CRUSH BEHAVIOR

[benditozorrito]

THEORY TIME

I can see in the description that TRUTHS WILL BE REVEALED at the tomb.

So heres what I got before I go in:

I am like 90% sure Edel is the flame emperor like I thought about it for a hot second when Hubert came by saying she was missing, but I was way more suspect when Edel talked to me about them afterwards. It just seemed a lot like she was really talking about herself then

"Flame" "Emperor"-apparently created by some kind of experimentation to be some kinda perfect product Edel- a child of an empire, apparently the result of lots of blood sacrificing to have the "Flame" crest, now in line fore the throne, thus future "emperor/ess" Plus those feathers, the empire is known for this eagle motif lol 

I guess Jeritza is still on the table, but I know virtually nothing about this guy. I'm more apt to believe he may still be the death knight Especially bc it can't be Edel, Hubert, or any of my guys, bc they've all been present at the same time

NOW FOR WILDER THEORIES

I STILL THINK RHEA IS ACTUALLY SERIOS she's weird, about everything, has clearly been trying some shit, and I'm really feeling like shes older than she says Jeralt & "Catherine" for sure, Flayn, and by consequence Seteth, also possibly long living

The books reference the Goddess heros as having long life, and their power carried in crest bloodlines. But it doesn't necessarily say people with those with crests also get long life bc of it. Which is a possibility but the other possibility is, they ARE those old heros 

Which could simply be it. OR MAYBE ALSO THEY COULD BE THOSE FOUR SAINTS SEIROS HUNG OUT WITH Flayn i'm less sure of that BUT THE ADULTS MAYBE t his is literally only based on Seteth seeming to favor one of them lmao so I wont be surprised if I'm totally wrong there

even if thats not it tho, I'd hazard a guess these guys have been shaping events to their favor for...something. Regarding the Goddess most likely. Seeing as Sothis is certain Rhea did something to put her in Byleth

THATS WHAT I GOT, NOW WE APPROACH THE HOLY TOMB I AM EXCITE

DISCLAIMER: NO SPOILERS PLEASE. THAT ALSO MEANS NO HINTS AND NO INFO ABOUT HOW OTHER PLAY-THROUGHS COULD DIFFER. UNTIL I FINISH THE LAST PATH, LITERALLY DO NOT TELL ME THINGS. I AM GOING INTO THIS GAME ALMOST COMPLETELY BLIND AND I’D LIKE TO KEEP IT THAT WAY.

[dromexa]

so i started a fight with one of the racist people i work with today

long story short, there are some romani travellers in the area who were using the building car park for whatever reason about a week ago. they were asked to leave and then today they have apparently broken into the car park (i’m not sure how exactly one breaks into an open air car park but, yknow, thats another debate) and the site manager sent an email to everyone who is based from that building (despite there being less than 100 of the normal 400 people who are actually still working there and not from home, no idea why they sent it to everyone tbh) telling us that they had broken in, the police had been called, etc etc.

so, because a majority of my (very small) department are working from home, we all communicate via a team chat since we can’t actually yknow, see each other anymore. at this point its late in the day, about 5.30 and theres only 5 of us online at this point which includes 2 managers and this one woman (we’ll call her [tiff] since she’s always in one)

for context on this vile woman, when i first started working there, just over 3 years ago, i was deep in the throes of depression. i actually didn’t even get diagnosed until about a month or two after i’d started there even though i’d been seeing a doctor about it for about 6 months (which is a whole other thing). and this woman bullied me incessantly. she constantly made remarks about me, and even on occasion my family, to me and others, made complaints about me for completely unnecessary reasons, a whole plethora of stuff that i honestly cannot be bothered to get into. she made me cry many times, both at work and when i had gone home. when i finally got on medication and started having monthly meetings with my manager i told her about [tiff] bullying me, and she got straight on that shit and it has tapered off since then. of course she still makes the occasional remark or insult, but i don’t take notice of her anymore as i’ve gained bounds more confidence in myself and my ability to do my job. every remark that she makes against me is unwarranted, always an over the top reaction to something i have said. i have never instigated an argument with her. her dislike of me is extremely clear to me and everyone else on the team. it is not a point of contention; in fact it is a hotly discussed topic amongst us whenever she decides to throw any barbs my way. and this is just the shit she does to me. i am not the only person in the team she acts like this towards. it is not an uncommon occurrance. to put it simply, this woman is a bully.

and so, after receiving the email about how the romani travellers from last week have broken into the car park at work, [tiff] puts in the chat “I see the t*nkers are back at it again.”

now, i have been ill for about three days (hopefully its not the Rona but i doubt it since i never go outside anyway) but since i’m working from home i’ve been suffering through it cause my job isn’t actually too hard at the moment. i am exhausted, cranky, upset that i haven’t been able to really eat anything for the last three days and completely  done with the day emotionally, mentally, and physically, and particularly with this woman.

so, i replied.

“no need to be racist [tiff].”

as soon as i sent the message, i felt the storm brewing. i know that racist people do not like to be called racist, because of ignorance of ‘propriety; or whatever the fuck it is, they don’t like it even though its true. i know that [tiff] has an explosive temper, so i’m just waiting for the shit storm she is no doubt furiously typing as fast as she can. and then i get the message

“shut your mouth, its short for itinerant which is an IRISH word”

now, at the time, i admit, i had no idea what that word meant. i had to swiftly google it. it means traveling from place to place, which i guess is an apt description of the romani people as this is something that they do indeed do. however, that isn’t the word she said. in fact, ANY WORD that isn’t ‘roma/romani’ or ‘traveller’ is considered offensive to them (and honestly i’m not so sure on if traveller is considered as offensive to them). so what she said was still racist, and all i can really gather from her response is that she’s trying to use her own culture of being an irish descendent to defend her racism? which makes... no fucking sense? you can’t justify discrimination against a certain group or culture by saying ‘oh its okay, i’m allowed to discriminate against another group/culture because I’M from a discrimanted group/culture’. in regards to the word itself, i’d say its similar to calling someone of japanese descent a j*p. yes, it technically is short for a real word. however, the shortened version of it IS A FUCKING SLUR. It doesn’t matter if the slur itself came from a ‘proper’ word, its STILL A FUCKING SLUR. IT IS OFFENSIVE. IT IS NOT OKAY. and for the icing on the racist cake, she told me to shut my mouth on a GROUP WORK CHAT. talk about the absolute peak of professional work courtesy. such a wonderful human being, really.

so, me being the chill person that i am, did not type all of this into the group work chat because i am not going to argue all of this with a racist on a group work chat. i was tired, i felt like shit, and its a waste of my time anyway. this woman never thinks anything she has done is wrong. her excuse to my manager for bullying me was that i must ‘not get her sense of humour’. there is no reasoning with her, there is no reason in arguing with her.

therefore, my only response was “...it’s still derogatory though.”

which i thought was quite to the point. like i said, i’m confident enough in myself to stand up to her now. i’m not going to let herattempts to defend her pathetic actions deter me from telling her that she is being fucking racist.

unfortunately i never got a reply as one of the managers stepped in (figuratively) and said ‘this is not the place to have this chat ladies’ (don’t think badly of her, she really is a good manager and was the biggest help to me when i was in the deepest of my depression, and has actually been supporting me since i had a small relapse in december). i assume it was because of our long storied history of butting heads, especially in the chat, that she put a stop to it before it could escalate.

now, i know i started this whole rant saying ‘i started a fight’ and there were only three sentences said total. but, like i said, this woman is a bully. i don’t expect this to be over. i know in her twisted little head she’s going to do everything she can to make my life at work difficult. and since her daughter works with us in the same team too (who is honestly just as bad), i imagine she’ll be doing the same thing too in ‘solidarity’. thankfully, i am, and have always been, very careful when speaking with her to be professional (in my own way, after all) so that she has absolutely NOTHING to throw back at me. so that, in moments like these, all she does is impale herself on her own shitty personality. my current estimate for how long this particular grudge for calling her out on her shit in front of the entire team (who might not have been there, but will definitely see it when they log in tomorrow morning) is at about a year.

and i’m certainly looking forward to it.

[beautcous]

Thread 02 (At The Restaurant)

It had been two long weeks since Ezra had last seen her; his brunette with the striking eyes; and he honestly thought that Fate was playing a prank on him. Allowing him to meet Sydney and then…nothing. He didn’t even get her phone number. That was the disappointing part of all this; there was no way for him to contact her. He supposed he could’ve hired a private investigator to find her, but he believed in destiny, so despite not wanting to, he went about his life as if he never met her; all the while his thoughts remained on her. Her sweet smile and sassy retorts kept replaying itself in the back of his mind. His weeks were filled with shoots and different activities that took up most of his time; it was to the point where it was hard for him to catch his breath. He needed a break, so tonight, he decided to give himself one. Going out in his usual attire when he wanted to be inconspicuous, he dressed in a grey t-shirt, blue baseball hat and dark washed jeans. Since it was already dark, he didn’t see the need for him to put on his aviator sunglasses; the cap should be able to conceal his identity. Half an hour after he left his home, he arrived at his favorite restaurant. The establishment was packed with people; his gaze shifted about the vast space where he caught sight of Sydney right away. A smile quickly crept its way to his lips, his hues eating up the vision of her sitting in the dining area. She wasn’t alone however, she was with another woman and the two looked chummy. Questions immediately arose, a brow arching up as he wondered about the identity of the other woman. Were they dating? Judging by the kiss the two shared a few minutes later, it looked like it. Ezra could feel his stomach twisting, bile rising to his throat. His beauty was with someone else, she was spoken for. With his mood suddenly going south, he felt like hiding at home or better yet drowning himself in alcohol. Ezra wasn’t much of a drinker, he wasn’t one of those people who would spend his hard earned money on booze. Tonight felt like an exception however. How could he have been so wrong? What he thought was a sign from the heavens, turned out to be a complete misjudgment. The woman he wanted couldn’t be his other half; not when she was already happy with someone else. Feeling deflated and frankly forlorn, he made a move to leave. Before he could do that, his peripheral vision caught sight of the other woman standing and then making her way to the exit. His hues took in her movements and once she was gone, he directed his attention back at Sydney who was now alone. He had two options here; pretend like he never saw her, or approach. It didn’t take him long at all to make a decision because just seconds later, he found himself standing in front of her, a forced smile spreading across his face for her benefit. “Hi there, it’s been a while.” He greeted her as he took off his hat; revealing himself to her. At this point, he didn’t even care if others recognized him, all that went out the window the moment he decided to talk to her. “How have you been? Tweeting any actors you have a crush on lately?” He added, his tone teasing, though his heart still ached from having to watch her with the other woman.

The two weeks after the halloween festival had flown for Sydney, and thats primarily because the woman did all she could to busy herself, rather to busy her mind. Why? To not think about her run-in with her long-time crush Ezra Meyer, she could still feel her embarrassment linger at being caught by him. Her mind still reeling from the shock that not only had he recognized her but also stood there for the remaining time and flirted with her. Well, she supposed that would be putting it a bit lightly, hitting on her would be the apt description. Just when she thought she had received shocks for the day, he then proceeded to ask for her phone number. The temptation to give it to him had been far too great, because she wanted to continue to talk to him and get to know him. And while yes, he was arrogant and so cocky, there was also something so endearing about him. The need to know him and the pull she felt standing before him had been unlike anything she ever experienced but it also left her more than a bit terrified. She had no business to be thinking about him, she had Lucia, the woman she cared for so much and thought of losing of her wasn’t something Sydney wanted to entertain. She was currently seated next to Lucia at their usual go-to place, her girlfriend currently absorbed in an urgent matter that made itself known. She could see the worry in her features as Lucia began explaining she had to cut their night short and apologized saying she’d make it up to her. Sydney shook off her apologies, letting her know to take care of her business and reached up to give her a kiss just before Lucia disappeared. Sydney was a bit dejected and thought about leaving as well but the food arrived just seconds before Lucia had left and thus she decided to stick back.

Sydney was about to sit back down after bidding her girlfriend goodbye when a male figure presented itself in front of her. Her eyes looking over at the tall frame and while she couldn’t tell who he was thanks to his cap and glasses, it was the voice that resonated with her. It was a voice she’d know anywhere as smooth as honey and one that had her heart hammering. it was then he promptly revealed himself and her emerald hues widened slightly. “Ezra?” Not bothering to keep the shock off her voice either. How the hell did he find her? How long had he been here? Her eyebrows furrowed a bit, but she couldn’t deny that a little part was delighted to see him, as she didn’t think she’d run into him again. Her cheeks flamed a bit as she recalled the hand kiss he’d given her and one that she kept replaying in her mind like some obsessed school-girl that she was a bit disgusted with herself. He was just a boy, albeit a handsome and charming one but still only a boy. She wondered how many times she’d have to repeat that to herself in order to push Ezra out her mind. She realized seconds later that she was just staring at him while he spoke to her, and shook her head snapping out of her trance. “It’s only been two weeks.” She deadpanned, before wincing a bit at his question. “Oh, only about twenty, I’ve been slacking a bit.” She answered with a slight shrug, stating it as if were the most natural thing in the world. “But i’m sure you’d know all about them though.” her gaze was still trained him, “At the risk of sounding presumptuous, did you follow me here? Because there’s no way you could have known I’d be here…” Concern lacing her words when she spoke this time.

Could Ezra actually stand here and pretend like he hadn’t seen the woman of his dreams make out with someone else? Okay, maybe making out was not the appropriate word to use here. They kissed. Still, he didn’t see much of a difference in the act. It still left him feeling like he’d been punched in the gut. He shouldn’t have cared. After all, he was Ezra Meyer. He could have any woman fall for him if he chose to. Except, he didn’t want just anyone. He wanted the brunette with those striking eyes. It didn’t make sense for him to yearn for her this way since he’d never felt for anyone as strongly as he did her, but even if he tried to brush those feelings aside, he couldn’t bring himself to simply pretend as if they didn’t share a strong connection; or at least that was what he felt. He couldn’t be sure of her feelings. Judging by how she had kissed the other woman, she probably didn’t feel anything for him at all. Once again, the urge to drown this helplessness he was feeling with alcohol tugged at him, but since Ezra wasn’t the type of man to give in to such an ardent temptation, he resisted. There was always another solution to his problem, he just hadn’t thought of one yet. Besides, this thing between them was technically started by Sydney herself. If she hadn’t tweeted the she had a crush on him, he would’ve never even known who she was, and the series of events that followed would’ve never come to light. Things always happen for a reason and just because things wasn’t going his way now, it didn’t mean that dark cloud that was currently hovering over him would forever be shadowing him. Rainbow followed behind every storm, he had to believe that this too would have the same conclusion.

The mental pep talk seemed to have calmed his nerves a little; where Ezra then was able to smile at Sydney easily. Hearing her say his name; her voice sounding so unsure, had his heart skip a beat. There was just something in the way that she uttered his name that had him feeling like he had never felt before. She made it sound special somehow, and he liked the warmth that enveloped him when she did that. “The one and only.” He told her with a cocky smirk as he took off his hat, taking a seat in the empty chair across from her. “You’re alone. I guess I’ll join you.” He said, instead of asking if he could sit with her. Perhaps it was rude of him to have done so, and yet he couldn’t bring himself to regret his choice now. Leaning back in his seat, he took her features in; smiling away at her as he did so. God, did she radiate beauty. He was finding it hard to simply sit here and stare at her. Every bone in his body was telling him to do something about the attraction he felt for her. His hues landed on her plump lips and his mind began to veer off course; wondering what it would be like to kiss her. Her remark forced him back to the topic at hand, his lips stretched into a smile right before he answered her. “So you’ve counted the time we’re apart, that’s cute.” Again, he sounded like such a cocky asshole. What was going on with him that he always seemed to sound like a conceited prick whenever they spoke? “Be still my heart, I thought I was special, Sydney. Twenty is a pretty big number.” His hand was on his chest, a smirk lining his lips as he uttered the response. A brow shot up and he tilted his head a little upon hearing her remark. He paused for a moment, hues staying on hers the whole time. When he felt like he was ready to speak up, he leaned forward, inching ever so slowly towards her before he said, “Trust me, beautiful, if I had trailed you, we wouldn’t be here. I’d be seeing you in a location much more private.”

There were quite a few nights when Sydney laid in bed and her mind kept replaying her run-in with the actor. She tried not to read into his flirty comments and those damn compliments that still had heat rising to her cheeks each time she thought about them. Or that soft kiss he placed on her hand which caused such an intense fluttering sensation in her belly and the tingling that shot up her arm. Even now as she thought about the way his hand gently brushed against her cheek and that hand kiss, her skin tingled as if it vividly remembered exactly what his lips felt like against her skin. What was even more distorting was the strange yearning that came in the days that followed. Every time she was in a public place it was like she expected him to appear in front of her because there was a part of her that yearned to see him once more. Especially, when he’d given her the parting words of seeing her again soon, that had Sydney wonder when ‘soon’ would be. But as those pleasant thoughts drifted in her mind, guilt immediately followed afterwards because what right did she have to be thinking about someone when she was already spoken for? It was what stopped Sydney from taking any delight in her meeting with Ezra, the emotions she had felt during her run-in with him were not things she was supposed to be feeling for anyone. Even if it was for the man she’d been admiring for so long, at the end of the day they were from two very different worlds.

As she faced the very man who sent her heart into a frenzy, she could feel her throat close up a bit. She hadn’t been prepared to see him in the slightest not when their previous interaction was still fresh in her mind much to her annoyance. It was so god damn frustrating that she wished she never sent that tweet and that she never ran into him, but moreover, she wished he hadn’t flirted with her or complimented her. Sydney was much better off not meeting him and just admiring him from afar because then she wouldn’t be in this predicament. Then she she his rather cocky familiar smirk appear and she raised a brow, hoping that arrogant attitude of his would put a damper on his charm enough for her to keep her head straight. Then to her shock, he took the seat across from her and Sydney watched in mild shock at his nerve to just invite himself to her table. What was so infuriating was Sydney had yet to utter a protest in return, as she slowly realized a part of her wanted to have this time with him. The brunette tried to convince herself, she wasn’t doing anything wrong by speaking to someone. “You have a lot of nerve. Hmm, it appears you are not the gentlemen you claim to be, they would at least asked. What if I don’t want you to join?” She finally spoke, once her mind was able to form coherent sentences and her sass returned to her. How long her wits would remain with her, she didn’t know especially since the way he leisurely stared at her with those piercing brown eyes of his like he had at the beach. There was something in the way he was watching her that made her feel as if she were being scrutinized that her nerves were beginning to rise.

Still, she didn’t want to appear nervous or anything around him, she’d already felt as if she’d shown too much and the last thing she wanted was for Ezra to her dilemma. It was his next arrogant comment that had her mouth part in surprise, but of course he would catch onto such a minuscule detail. “Your impossible, you would let that get to your heard. Aren’t you a busy man, surely you have better things to think about than that?” She asked quirking an eyebrow at him and she wondered how well she was doing to mask her annoyance. Whether that was because of his arrogance or because she was liking it far too much. She watched him as she let her concern linger, truly wondering if he had followed her or somehow tracked her down here. She didn’t know whether to be concerned or flattered which only added to her frustration. Then he leaned over abruptly, all but forcing her to hold his gaze when he finally spoke and those words made her heart skip a beat. Her breath catching in throat and she swallowed slightly fight to keep the her cheeks from heating. “I don’t know if I believe you…you just  happen to show up here on the same night I am by accident?” She challenged, but truthfully she really didn’t know but she had to admit Ezra was smooth with his responses. She shook her head, “Just so you know, you would not be getting me anywhere alone with you.” Not sure why she had a need to say that, whether it was for him or her, she didn’t know.

If there was one thing Ezra did well other than acting, it would be charming women. He’d done that ever since he was a young boy. It wasn’t like he woke up one day and told himself that he was going to make a woman melt before him. No, of course not. It was just came easily to him. Plus, his mom did always say that his innocent boyish good looks would bring him far someday. He never did believe it until years later when he was standing in a room of screaming women at Comic-con. That was on revelation that truly opened his eyes to what he was capable of doing. Despite knowing the power he held, he still made sure that he was down to earth. It wasn’t exactly hard since he preferred keeping a low profile anyway. Things weren’t as simple with Sydney however. He felt like he had to work for her attention, and to top it off, finding out that she was with somebody made the task even more challenging. Suddenly, the image of the two women locking lips replayed itself, making his stomach drop. He couldn’t keep doing this, torturing himself over something that was beyond his control. For now, he had to trust that things would work out in his favor. A huge part of him still believed that there was a reason she was thrust into his life, and he was starting to think that she might truly be his other half. There was no other reasonable explanation behind his draw to her. No other woman could compare to her. When he gazed into her dark irises, he felt like he was drowning in everything that was Sydney. His heart would race in his chest; the urge to pull her into his arms and kiss those plump lips of hers was so strong that he would have to force himself to look away. He’d never had these kinds of urges with any other woman, Sydney seems to be the only one who could evoke such a strong reaction out of him. There had to be a reason why, and he would venture to guess that it was because she was his soulmate.

“Ahh… But you’re here all alone. It would be such a tragedy for someone so beautiful to be sitting in such a nice restaurant alone.” Charm oozed out of the statement, an easy smile stretching on his lips for her. Ezra kept his hues on Sydney’s his head tilting a little before he spoke to her once more. “Do you really want me to leave, Sydney? I could if you really want me to, but I have a suspicion that’s not what you want.” Since he was already in too deep now, he didn’t see the point in backing off. Maybe staying put and doing nothing was not the best solution for him. Persistence might be the key to winning her over. If only he could get just one kiss from her… His gaze then trailed down to her lips, his irises growing even darker as desire sets in. Before he could get too carried away, he shifted his attention back to her beautiful face. “Did I? I don’t think I did. You were the one who counted the time we were apart, not me.” That was a lie, of course he did. He knew exactly how long they’ve been apart. It was torture really; for him to lay awake at night, wondering about her. What she was up to, and if she was thinking about him too. To the average person, he looked like a love sick fool, and maybe he was. He couldn’t help himself; the yearning had been there ever since he saw her pretty face on Twitter. Meeting her perpetuated his adoration for her. Pathetic. That was the perfect word to sum up what he was when it came to her. “A busy man deserves a break too, no? You’re hurting my pride here. Twenty tweets… I thought I was special…” He returned, the cocky smile still easily playing across his features. Her reaction to him had him wondering if she might be as affected as he was. She looked stunned and was that a hint of blush on her cheeks? “I believe in Destiny, maybe this chance meeting is Destiny’s way of telling us that we should do something about all this accidental meetings.” He knew he shouldn’t have done it, his brain was telling him not to, yet his body reacted differently. Reaching for her hand, he took it in his and ran his thumb over her smooth skin. “The question here is; what are we going to do about it?” Ezra was more than sure that his hues were the color of the night sky now as he took her in, desire clearly present before her very eyes. “Never say never, Sydney. You never know what might happen in the future.”

“That line sounds very rehearsed.” Came her pert reply. Sydney would be lying if she said she didn’t want to know what it was that had Ezra so persistent with her. The man could have anyone he wanted and while she didn’t know him so well, he didn’t strike her as the type to waste his time after someone who just essentially had rejected him. For gods sake, she’d refused to him her number, so Sydney was sure he’d just have forgotten about her already. But as she sat across from him, despite her shock shocked at his nerve to invited himself to her table, she couldn’t help the thrill that passed through her at having his undivided attention. Maybe it had to do with the fact that Ezra stared at her as if she were the only thing that matter and the only thing that held his attention. Oh, this man was as smooth and charming as they came, and Sydney knew even a prior warning would not be enough to resist his charms. However, she was equally as stubborn and as determined as they came. But when his eyes trailed down to her lips, she could feel her heart skip a beat but she forced her gaze to stay on his rather than his lips. “That’s awfully presumptuous of you, even if I asked you to leave, you wouldn’t, Ezra. I know that much by now.” The brunette countered back, but she couldn’t deny she wanted him here. She could have stood up and easily walked away but her body remained glued to chair because she was so intrigued and it annoyed her.

She watched him furrowed eyebrows and with a look of utter disbelief. “I was not counting them!” The words sounding a bit more forceful than she wanted before she winced. “You’re pride will be fine, you have millions of gorgeous woman to fix that for you.” She quipped, but was stunned yet again not silence at his utter of the word Destiny. No words left her parted lips and then she felt him take her hand in his, and as last time she felt sparks run up her arm. Goosebumps rising along her skin and her heart once more took off racing. Her body screamed to snatch her hand back but between his thumb stroking her skin and his piercing hot gaze on her left her too frozen to react. She cursed her traitorous body, especially when his eyes just seemed to darken as the seconds went by. The look in his eyes enough to send shivers down her spine, that she found herself momentarily caught up in the spell before a clanking of a plate snapped her out. Gently tugging on her hand in an attempt to pull it free, not because she didn’t like it but because it felt far too good. “We’re not doing anything about it, Ezra. I’m with someone, I trust you can at least respect that and not do all…this?” gesturing to the her hand that he held. “You’re far too arrogant for your own good. It won’t happen, ever.” She told him firmly, “I like you as a person and I’d like us to be friends but I’m sorry, that’s all I can be to you.”

“Why would you say that? Do I not look genuine to you?” Ezra asked, his hues boring in hers. He didn’t have to rehearse any lines, not when the words came so easily to him. It all poured right from his very soul. Sure, it might sound cheesy to some and perhaps it was the same for Sydney as well. Despite that, he couldn’t say that he regretted it. This thing he felt for her was far stronger than simple infatuation. There was a pull that he couldn’t even begin to understand, and he had no way of resisting the magnetism he felt for her. “That’s a very fair observation.” He cocked his head to the side and offered her a lopsided smile. “But you don’t want me to leave. So I’ve made my point. Besides, I think you’re a little intrigued by my persistence.” He added challengingly. To be fair, he wouldn’t have left even if she asked him to. She’d been on his mind for the past two weeks, how could anyone expect him to leave her be now? Although he was still bothered over the fact that he had to watch her kiss another woman, he simply couldn’t bring himself to leave. “Okay, Sydney, I believe that you didn’t.” He raised a brow at her after making the remark. If she felt even a smidge of the draw he felt for her, he was more than sure that she had been counting the days since they last saw each other. “Although, I did… I can give you the exact time we’ve been apart, if you want…” She might find it creepy, and want nothing to do with him after that, but he couldn’t say that he regretted saying those words. He did think about her, every moment that he had to himself, he wondered want she was up to. The sad part in all this was, it made himself wonder, if she ever thought about him in the same capacity. He doubted that was the case. He couldn’t say he faulted her for not doing so.

“You keep insisting that I have a hoard of women pining over me, and yet, you keep rejecting me when I already know how you feel about me.” Ezra leaned in once more, his eyes taking in her beauty, an easy smile flashed for her benefit. “Is it hard for you to keep away from me? Because it seems like your heart is telling you one thing and your head is tugging you in another direction.” That was exactly how he felt too; knowing that he shouldn’t pursue her, but needing to be close at the same time. The whole situation was enough to drive him crazy. Feeling her soft skin grazing along as he swept his thumb over it, sent a sensation unlike anything he’d ever felt before to sweep through him. He wanted more of it, and wondered what it would feel like to feel her naked skin against his, their bodies moving together like poetry in motion. He couldn’t think about that right now. Nope. Her confession about the other woman being someone special in his life, made his heart clench. The urge to drink away his sorrow burning within him, but even then he couldn’t simply walk away, not when he still believed that she was meant to be something more to him. He was tempted not to let her hand go as she tugged at it, but he did it anyway, not wanting a scene. “I will not pursue you,” he took a momentary pause, letting out a breath before continuing in a nonchalant tone, “for now… But let’s not talk about this anymore, hmm? Let’s just enjoy being in each other’s company and catch up.”

He waved at the waiter then, urging him over and ending the conversation that they were having for the time being. For the few hours, they caught up, finding out about each other and generally having a good time. It wasn’t until one of the staff told them that the restaurant was closing that they finally left the establishment. He walked her to her car, all the while not wanting to leave her side, yet knowing that he really didn’t have a choice. “Well, this is it…” He said, his hands shoved in the pockets of his jacket as he gazed upon the beautiful woman before him. Despite knowing that he shouldn’t try to make further contact with her, he found himself blurting out the question, “Would it be okay for me to get your number now?” This time, all of his charm and cockiness was gone. He simply looked at her with a pleading look, probably looking pathetic as hell. God, how was she able to reduce him to this state, he didn’t know, but if he had to look like a fool to be in her life, then that was the sacrifice he would simply have to make. He rocked on the balls of his feet while he waited for her response. Thankfully, by some utter miracle, she relented and gave him her phone number. He wasn’t going to push his luck and said, “Thank you. I promise I won’t bother you…too much. Have a good night, Syd.” He smiled at her one last time, turned around and headed over to his car; all the while whistling as he drove himself home.

COMPLETED

[doggonneit]

The Last Red Scribble | Part 1/2

Fandom: Haikyuu!!

Pairing/Characters: Kuroo/Tsukishima

Rating: T for Teen

Warnings: Single Parent AU

A.N. This is a part of the KuroTsuki Gift Exchange 2017, written for @moonislander on Tumblr. Hope you enjoy!

Italics is Tsukishima. Bold is Kuroo.

[Read on AO3]

Monday PM

(2:33) I’m about to slam my head into the wall. (2:33) Tobio got into another fight. (2:34) He’s fucking five, how does he keep picking fights.  

(2:35) what a champ

(2:35) What the fuck, Akiteru. (2:35) You’re not supposed to say that.

(2:36) wrong number bud but legit (2:36) tobios got a future in cage fighting (2:36) whos tobio

(2:38) Oh, sorry. Wrong number.

(2:40) well dont leave me hanging (2:40) i need to know who to put my money on in the future

(2:41) Don’t make this weirder than it already is.

(2:41) :)))))

(2:42) Tobio’s my son.

(2:43) are you an old man (2:43) is that why you started texting me (2:44) STRANGER DANGER STRANGER DANGER

(2:45) What the fuck, no. (2:46) I messed up my brother’s new number. (2:46) Evidently.  

(2:46) eviDENTly (2:47) arent you all smart and proper (2:47) thats how i like em

(2:49) Are you seriously flirting with me over text? (2:49) You don’t know stranger danger at all. (2:50) I don’t have time for this.  

(2:53) :((((( (2:55) come back

(2:56) I have to deal with my son.

(2:56) what an adulty adult (2:57) tell tobio hes a fucken champ

.

Tuesday AM

(7:22) sooo (7:22) i know your brothers name and your sons name (7:22) but not your name

(7:25) …

(7:25) hint hint

(7:26) Have you seen the latest stranger danger campaign? (7:26) It’s got your face all over it.  

(7:27) you think youre being funny but my mates crack jokes about my ugly mug making children cry (7:28) would tobio cry if he ever saw me

(7:30) He doesn’t even know what you look like.

(7:31) *image attached*

(7:34) I really don’t have time for this. I’m getting Tobio ready for school.

(7:35) if life were a party youd be the clown that sucks all the fun away (7:35) XP

(7:36) Why are you making that face?

(7:36) you hurt my feelings so im sticking my tongue out at you

(7:38) No-one uses that emoji for hurt feelings.

(7:39) i just did (7:39) XP (7:39) oh look i just did it again (7:39) XP (7:39) and again look at me go

(7:42) All right, all right, I’ll ask. (7:44) Tobio says you look like you killed a cat.  

(7:44) how does someone even look like that (7:44) your son needs glasses (7:45) what do you think then (7:45) smouldering eyes wicked grin (7:45) admit it im pretty

(7:46) Yeah, pretty atrocious. (7:46) What’s with that hair?

(7:47) HI THIS IS KUROOS BEST FREIDN FOERVER BOKUTO PLS DONT METNION HIS BEHDEAD IT MAKES HM SELF CONSCOIUS

(7:47) Aww. Is Kuroo sulking now?

(7:47) sajfkdsjp (7:47) asdffhajlkkasdfghijkl

(7:48) I feel like I should be concerned. (7:50) I am actually concerned.  

(7:51) how do i get rid of a body

(7:51) What.

(7:51) how do i (7:51) get rid of (7:51) a body

(7:51) Cook him and serve him to the police who knock on your door asking for his whereabouts.

(7:52) babe thats brilliant (7:52) youre a committed accomplice now

(7:52) On a scale of 1-10, how often do you hit on nameless and faceless strangers over the phone?

(7:52) 1 (7:53) its only ever been you (7:53) *heart emoji*

(7:53) I’m flattered.

(7:53) we have a dilemma (7:54) you know my name and my face (7:54) ive lost the advantage (7:54) who are you o mysterious phone man

(7:54) You really want to know?

(7:55) yes!!

(7:55) Well (7:55) My name is (7:55) *middle finger emoji*  

(7:56) i am (7:56) fucking betrayed (7:56) my own accomplice

(7:57) :)))))

.

Wednesday PM

(4:17) *image attached* (4:17) fight gloves for tobio when he grows up lololol

(4:20) Don’t even joke about that.

(4:21) did he get into another fight (4:21) whatd he do steal another kids party pie

(4:22) He ruined someone’s sandcastle.

(4:22) that punk

(4:22) He also threw the bucket at their head and made them cry.

(4:23) holy shit (4:23) i know you cant see but im pissing myself laughing

(4:23) That’s the second time this month. (4:24) Is he going for a new record? How concerned should I be? (4:24) I should ask my brother for advice.  

(4:24) okay but in all seriousness (4:25) dont kids usually act out because theyre upset about things

(4:26) Yep.

(4:26) you sound like you know whats going on

(4:27) Yep.  

(4:27) is the thing not an easy fix

(4:28) Tobio can’t exactly move back into his old neighbourhood and old school.

(4:28) ohhh (4:28) i get that totally been there (4:29) though that happened to me in middle school so i handled it differently

(4:30) You mean you didn’t stomp on sandcastles and throw buckets at people’s heads? (4:30) Shocking.  

(4:31) real mature of me ayy (4:31) but its chill tobio just needs time to adjust

(4:32) He’s been living with me for four months already.

(4:33) hes trying to survive a new environment (4:33) go easy on him

(4:35) All good and well until he accidentally kills one of his classmates.

(4:35) what could he possibly do (4:35) nah dont answer that

(4:36) You’re not inspiring much confidence right now.

(4:37) okay hows this (4:38) the most dangerous thing in a school is a pencil (4:38) if he stabs it through someones eye (4:38) what are the chances of a five year old having that good of an aim

(4:39) We could be surprised.

(4:40) lets give tobio the benefit of the doubt (4:40) have i brought your fears to rest or nah

(4:50) You’re interesting to talk to, I’ll give you that.

(4:50) is that why youve kept talking to me despite the anonymous and rather suspicious nature of our relationship

(4:50) Sure.

(4:51) *heart eyes emoji*

.

Thursday PM

(6:44) ive been thinking

(6:46) Make sure you give yourself a break every ten minutes. We wouldn’t want to strain your mental capabilities.

(6:47) hush child i got something to say (6:47) about tobio sort of

(6:48) I’m listening.

(6:49) so yesterdays conversation made me go all introspective (6:49) and if all tobios doing is throwing things (6:50) the lil guy will go far in life (6:50) i mean when i was five i was eating sand

(6:51) Congratulations, you just tripped over the lowest bar society set for its most basic standards.

(6:51) savage i love it (6:52) bokuto just called me a masochist (6:52) he doesnt even know what that means i bet he learned it from akaashi

(6:54) … (6:55) Who’s Akaashi?  

(6:55) the most beautiful man to grace the earth and bokutos boyfriend (6:55) im not even kidding his face was sculpted by gods (6:56) *image attached*

(6:57) Wow.

(6:57) exactly (6:57) no one knows how bokuto snagged him (6:58) my moneys on witchcraft

(6:59) Have a little more faith in your Best Freidn Foerver.

(6:59) hes my best bro but he does NOT have that much game

(6:59) You misspelled Best Freidn Foerver.

(7:00) all right he types like an electrocuted toddler (7:00) hes there for me during the good bad and ugly (7:00) and i support him 100% (7:01) but theres no logical explanation for how he got akaashi

(7:01) Maybe he has charm.

(7:02) gasp (7:02) babe (7:02) did you just imply i dont have any charm

(7:03) I didn’t say anything of the sort but it’s an apt description.

(7:03) you really are a savage (7:04) totally my type just saying

(7:05) For all you know I’m a sixty year old man with whiskers and a pot belly.

(7:05) im a personality kinda guy anyway (7:05) so what do you look like

(7:07) Shh.

(7:07) ?

(7:07) Can you hear that?

(7:07) ??

(7:08) Stranger danger.

(7:08) DUDE COME ON (7:08) or are you actually a sixty year old man with whiskers and a pot belly (7:08) because no judgement if you are

(7:10) *image attached*

(7:11) holy shit (7:11) HOLYS HIT (7:11) AJGSFAJKALHHJKKKLLLL

(7:13) Uh. (7:14) Hello? (7:15) Are you there? (7:18) I’m actually kind of worried now.  

(7:20) Hi, this is Akaashi. Kuroo’s fine; he’s muttering to himself on the floor. (7:21) Something about being sculpted by gods and touched by angels?

(7:22) What the fuck.

(7:22) Nice selfie :)

.

Friday PM

(9:28) arms (9:28) abs (9:28) legs (9:28) sore

(9:31) Do I really want to know? (9:31) No, I don’t.  

(9:32) :( (9:32) i experienced life death and hell all in the same day

(9:33) Now I can’t not know.

(9:33) i had vball training for a match next week and it was torture (9:33) and when we thought it was done no (9:34) we had practice matches with alumni and it was torture round two (9:34) then i had coaching which i usually love (9:34) but the kids kept spiking balls at me (9:35) 10 POINTS IF YOU HIT HIS BODY 50 POINTS IF YOU HIT HIS HEAD 100 POINTS IF YOU HIT HIS NOSE

(9:36) You play volleyball?

(9:37) thats all you took from that

(9:37) I used to play volleyball in high school.

(9:37) wait are you serious (9:37) what position??

(9:38) Middle blocker.

(9:38) me too!! (9:38) what are the chances of us both playing vball and being middle blockers (9:39) this is destiny i feel it

(9:40) That was another lifetime ago lol.

(9:40) once a vball player always a vball player (9:40) how tall are you

(9:41) 195cm, why?

(9:43) 195 and yOU DONT PLAY VBALL (9:43) this is a crime (9:44) tell me tobio plays vball

(9:45) I... don’t think he’s ever tried it?

(9:46) the outrage (9:46) how could you (9:47) i just felt my heart crack (9:47) oohhh the pain

(9:47) Poor baby. Want me to kiss it better?

(9:47) i (9:47) ijakl

(9:48) ?? (9:50) Did you disappear on me again. (9:50) This seems to be a growing trend.

(9:51) Hi, this is Akaashi again. Kuroo is currently incapacifjskkl (9:51) WAHT DID U DO TO MY BSET FREIND FOREBER WHYS HE ALL RED N CHOKN ON HIS WORSD

(9:52) Oh. (9:52) Scroll up.

(9:52) OHO (9:53) OHOHO

.

Saturday AM

(11:10) my mates wont stop laughing at me (11:10) i live in a house of dicks (11:11) cant even escape them theyre on my team (11:11) i blame you

(11:15) Sucks to be you lol.

(11:15) are you taking pleasure in my pain

(11:15) It sounds wrong when you put it that way.

(11:15) ;) (11:16) i’m still upset though (11:16) make me feel better?

(11:17) You seem to think I possess the ability to feel pity. (11:17) I don’t.  

(11:18) you know what you do possess (11:18) the ability to feel annoyance (11:18) ! (11:18) ! (11:18) ! (11:18) ! (11:18) ! (11:18) is it annoying yet (11:18) ! (11:18) ! (11:18) ! (11:18) ! (11:18) !

(11:19) ALL RIGHT, STOP.

(11:19) victory

(11:20) What do you want.

(11:17) whats your name

(11:17) Are you serious.

(11:17) i wanna know

(11:18) You reek of desperation.

(11:18) not gonna change my mind

(11:19) …

(11:19) wanna do the whole !!! thing again

(11:21) Fine. (11:21) You’ll ask politely.

(11:21) dom huh (11:21) im into that (11:22) will you pretty please with a cherry on top tell me what your name is

(11:22) N (11:22) O (11:22) *heart emoji*

(11:24) i cant believe (11:24) how could you (11:24) youre so mean

(11:24) :)))))

(11:25) shouldve expected it (11:25) do you always play with peoples hearts like this

(11:25) I enjoy jerking you around. You make some pretty good entertainment.

(11:26) glad to be of service :’)

(11:26) I suppose I could throw you a bone.

(11:26) im not falling for it this time

(11:26) Tsukishima.

(11:27) …

(11:27) My name is Tsukishima.

(11:27) it is (11:27) up down left right with you

(11:27) Disappointed?

(11:28) NEVER WITH YOU (11:28) TSUKKIIII

(11:28) No. (11:28) Do not.  

(11:28) i love your name its beautiful like you

(11:29) I revoke your right to say my name ever again.

(11:29) TSUKKIIII (11:29) *heart eyes emoji*

(11:32) I have never regretted anything more in my life.

.

Sunday PM

(3:24) You said you have a volleyball match next week, right?

(3:28) is this a dream (3:28) are you actually texting me first

(3:29) Miracles abound today.

(3:29) yeah i have a match next week why

(3:29) I mentioned it to Tobio and he got really excited. (3:30) He made me explain everything. I spent hours talking about rules and moves.  

(3:30) i  knew that kid had the vball genes in him

(3:30) I even dug up some old practice tapes from high school. (3:31) He’s obsessed with setting.  

(3:31) hed get along with my setter (3:31) that arrogant ass (3:31) i love him though

(3:32) *image attached*

(3:33) what… is that

(3:33) Tobio’s lack of artistic talent.

(3:33) i hope you didnt tell him that

(3:34) He said it was you blocking and scoring the winning point.

(3:35) he drew a picture of me?

(3:35) He captured your likeness down to the last red scribble.

(3:35) omg… omg...

(3:37) It’s not that big of a deal.

(3:37) youre not ruining this for me (3:37) this is the best day of my life

(3:37) Remember when we talked about low standards?

(3:37) your son loves me

(3:38) He drew a picture of you.

(3:38) and how many other people has he drawn???

(3:38) …

(3:38) thought so (3:39) tell my biggest fan i said hello and thank you (3:39) its the prettiest picture ive ever gotten

(3:39) Don’t get nudes much, huh.

(3:40) wow (3:40) WOWW (3:40) that went beyond savage (3:40) that was straight up murder

(3:41) You like it.

(3:41) yeah im really wondering about that masochistic streak

(3:41) About that.

(3:42) ??

(3:42) I was thinking (3:42) If you were interested (3:42) I could help you explore that.

(3:44) i just dropped my fuckign phone (3:44) are you fucking with me right now

(3:45) Yes.

(3:46) i fucking hate you

(3:46) No, you don’t.

(3:46) no i don’t

(3:46) Why do you keep falling for these things.

(3:47) actually im falling for you

(3:47) Seriously.

(3:47) hope (3:47) its all i got buddy (3:49) is this going to be like last time when you said no but then changed your mind

(3:50) No.

(3:50) dammit

.

Monday PM

(7:18) happy one week anniversary babe (7:18) do i get a gift (7:18) eyebrow wiggle

(7:21) Did you just type -eyebrow wiggle- at me

(7:22) *video attached*

(7:23) I did not ask for a video of you wiggling your eyebrows.

(7:23) its my gift to you

(7:23) I’m so… grateful.

(7:24) cmon gift gift gift

(7:24) I don’t know, I don’t have anything. (7:24) Actually (7:25) *image attached*  

(7:25) omg is that tobio (7:25) hes so fucken cute wtf (7:26) look at those hamster cheeks (7:26) whats he eating

(7:26) Blueberry cupcake. (7:26) It’s his reward for behaving in school.  

(7:27) aww no fights today?

(7:28) His teacher said he engaged positively with other students. He was trying to play volleyball with them.

(7:28) omg thats adorable (7:28) i see where he gets it from (7:28) are you teaching him how to play

(7:30) I taught him how to receive but I’m rusty. (7:30) I should look into classes for him. (7:30) Do they even have classes for kids that young?  

(7:31) the rec centre where i coach does (7:31) idk about other places though

(7:31) Whereabouts is your rec centre?

(7:32) shh

(7:32) You’re not doing the stranger danger thing on me.

(7:32) do you hear that

(7:32) Can you hear my sigh travelling across the wind.

(7:33) STRANGER DANGER

(7:33) Are you done.

(7:33) my centres in tokyo lol

(7:34) It wouldn’t happen to be the Tokyo Sports and Recreation Centre?

(7:34) how did you know that (7:34) oh my god this is real (7:34) STRANGER DANGER

(7:36) It’s a twenty minute walk from my place.

(7:36) i know i just joked about stranger danger but should you really be telling me that

(7:37) Take it as proof that I don’t think you’re a predatory serial killer.

(7:37) thats the nicest thing youve ever said to me (7:38) *heart emoji* (7:38) well if youre interested the kiddy classes are wed 5pm and sat 10am (7:38) you can go to one or both

(7:40) Hmm.

(7:40) times no good?

(7:42) My brother has Tobio on both those days. (7:42) I’ll have to talk to him about this.  

(7:43) ahh dont wanna encroach on uncle nephew bonding time

(7:43) I don’t think Akiteru will mind-- he used to play volleyball too.

(7:43) how did you ever think tobio wouldnt be a vball player (7:44) its clearly in his genes

(7:44) Wishful thinking. I never really liked volleyball.

(7:45) what no (7:45) why

(7:46) It was just a school club. I only did it because it was something to do.

(7:47) you come into my house

(7:48) Lol.

(7:48) well hey its paying off now (7:48) i bet tobio looks at you like youre a god

(7:49) Yeah. (7:49) It’s the first time he’s really looked at me. (7:50) So thanks. (7:50) :)

[veronicadvalle]

I would argue that Archie *is* kind of inconsiderate. I know that word has a negative connotation, in that people who are inconsiderate don't care about others' needs - which is not a description I feel applies to Archie. So I propose a different definition of the word - he's inconsiderate because he gets a bit stuck in his own head and doesn't think beyond his own immediate situation, which ties into his impulsiveness (1/2)

(2/2) (I personally think he’s not impulsive for any particular reason, it’s just the way he is. DNA or something.) But I want to stress that he’s not *always* like this - we’ve seen him take into account how others feel and make sure he can help them- but it might not be second nature with him. It’s something he needs to consciously remind himself to do, which sadly may also feed into his low opinion of himself and why he probably thinks he’s selfish and cowardly.

So I don’t think ‘inconsiderate’ is the appropriate word to apply to Archie for several reasons. I think that word suggests activity hurting others in a mean-spirited way and/or being aware of it but simply not caring, which isn’t Archie. And my biggest reason that I don’t like that word to describe Archie is that he basically does what he does to either help or protect other people. So it’s a bit … ludicrous (and a tiny bit contradictory) to call the guy who just wants to help and protect his friends and family inconsiderate. You know what I mean? It’ll be like being forever dubbed ‘selfish’ for wanting to have the last slice of dessert or something after you shared the entire cake, and letting that one instance forever define who you are.

However, I completely understand what people mean when they call him that. I just don’t think that’s the appropriate word for it because it suggests a lot of things that Archie isn’t. 

That’s why I call him naive instead of inconsiderate. He’s naive in the sense that he doesn’t give much thought outside of immediate circumstances if its to protect his friends and family. (I feel like if the situation doesn’t include his family/friends, he is able to think things through more clearly). But when he gets so focused on his goal, its difficult for him to think outside of that. And sometimes it does backfire, and he ends up hurting a few people. But you know he never means to and he always apologizes, which shows how considerate he is. 

So yeah, my argument against the use of that word is not only because the negative connotation but because it plaints Archie as a person that he really isn’t. He’s incredibly naive and I think thats a more apt word for him (other words would be reckless, (morally pure™), idealist, impulsive. basically anything that is naturally hasty instead of premeditated). 

[sweetlifetownsville]

It's A Bugger ...But Maybe A Blessing, Too. Do We Need To Clean Up More Than The Mud And Mould?

The deliberate managed flooding of Townsville should be the catalyst for a far-ranging review of how we do things in this city and maybe the way forward is to know how we should not have done them before. Are we entering the phase of the faceless spokesman? Seems so, as Mayor Mullet suddenly refuses to comment on some matters. The floodwaters might have receded but some leeches are still hanging around firmly plonking their suckers on the public tit one exponent of the big suck is particularly prominent or has Shayne Sutton departed our company? and never the twain should meet its not just the Astonisher having problems with keeping the wrong ads away from the wrong story one of Britains more respected papers has dropped a complete clanger Plus your regular illustrated Trump gallery But first Damned If Adani Do, Damned If Adani Dont The Pies favorite acid-tongued columnist, the Guardians Marina Hyde dropped a wonderful line the other day, and while she was referring hopeless and hapless British conservatives, it is so apt for our Queensland goofarium in George Street, The Pie will borrow it the Palaszczuk Government is like a gif of someone lighting their own fart and then being consumed by the fireball. Jackie Treacherous Trad has the box of matches, and our premier is the one whos been chugging down the vindaloo and frothy XXXX, or should that be Adani Ale. Adding to the fireball was Queensland Resources Investment Commissioner Caoilin Chestnutt, who became a roasting chestnut when she described the Black Throated Finch controversy as an absolute mess which would delay any subsequent approval of the Carmichael mine by between six months to two years. That was a bit rich of her, considering she was talking in New Delhi, in a country which knows a fair bit about messes in politics and social ethics. But those critical of what they see as a cynical and dishonest delay are particularly incensed that arch-Greenie Associate Professor Brendan Wintle has been driving the review they see that as akin to having, say, Clive Palmer being out in charge of an inquiry whether chocolate doughnuts should be outlawed. But Bentleys on to the nutty professors game, who seems to have taken a page out of the hunting with hawks manual.

Still Searching For Icebergs

The mans sensitivity and sense of timing (not to mention decency) was on full display at the Casino ballroom a few nights ago, when Clive Palmer hosted a lavish dinner promoting his unicorn plan to build a replica of Titanic. This affair had a feel of as Rome burns, being staged just as the devastating extent of the flood disaster was becoming fully apparent. Clive seems fatally attracted to things that have been destroyed by natural disasters dinosaurs, the Titantic, but the cynical Yabulu disaster was all his own doing but his only nod on the night towards the immense local disaster was a pledge of $100,000 to help fund any class action against insurers that may emerge from a flood inquiry. Very handsome of the man willing to splurge $500million on a wild whim. But the bombast didnt finish on the night. A day or two later, Palmer called for the TCC to be put into administration and the mayor sacked, because of her handling of the flood disaster. While that scenario has been put in this blog and elsewhere as a question to be answered, it hasnt been asserted as a fact, until Clive came along. The response was predictable, but what was interesting was that although a subsequent headline said Mayor Hill Rejects Palmers Claim, the funny thing is she didnt. In fact, as far as The Pie has heard, she hasnt said tickety boo about his attack, and about claims from others that shes going to have to carry the can on this one. Instead, all of sudden, the mayor went all media shy and we got this

Now, all that be as it may, the thing that caught the beady eye were the words a council spokesman. That phrase has been as rare as rocking horse shit ever since former editor Mick Carroll ten years ago ruled that all such spokespeople needed to supply a name and position, no anonymity. (Dolan Hayes went thermonuclear over that one, but he lost anyway.)

So now it seems the council, via a faceless, nameless spokesman (they probably rolled out the rapidly expanding Tony Bligh of the Legal Dept) as an organisation is pre-judging any official findings about what role the mayor played in the deliberate flooding of hundreds of Townsville ratepayers homes. Something to be learned there, Jenna Cairney .. as Mick Carroll said all those years ago, if there is no name and position to go with statements, whats to stop people thinking the paper just made it up. And that is far more relevant now than when Mick was in charge. It Looks Like Its A Whole New And Overdue Ball Game For Townsville A trusted correspondent on this blog we know as Memory Man has offered many intelligent insights here. During the week, he sent in this story from the Guardian

and attached these comments. This stuff is actually serious, and requires very careful consideration. Simplistic fluff from the likes of Col Dwyer about the poor old North not getting its fair share doesnt address the underlying drivers of risk / mitigation that frame the market for regional insurance. I know talking to colleagues in the global insurance market that cutting out a middle man or two would reduce premiums by about 10% straight away. This means going directly to the underwriters. Only a local authority-backed insurance operation can do this. The Gold Coast City Council did this some years ago. The flip side is also risk mitigation. In part this means making sure the right things are built in the right places. This is easier said than done, because the right things is a function of a minimal specification, which in turn is driven by a given assessment of risk and impact magnitude. Now, the rule has been to build to a 1-in-100 year event impact. This isnt as silly as it sounds. Folk whove derided it as a meaningless measure because such levels have occurred more than once in the past 100 years miss the point of of probability. The reason why the measure is relevant is that it also goes to balancing out the costs of building the right thing versus the probable costs of loss (or replacement). Over-engineering is costly to build, and in many cases also unnecessary. Societies accept that there are some things that can be built to a lesser standard, and other things need to be built to a higher standard. Thats what the public debate should be focused on. Critical infrastructure should be built to a higher standard; things that are more easily replaced can be built to a lower standard. Additionally, everyone needs to recognise that the probability of severe events occurring is increasing (as well as the severity of events themselves). So, what would be described presently as a 1-in-100 may be better understood as a 1-in-75, for sake of argument. It also means that so-called 1-in-500 events may have a greater probability of occurring in the future than was the case in the past. So a revision of probability estimates to say, 1-in-400, may be necessary. Bottom line though is that all asset owners need to take proactive decisions to ensure their assets are built to such as level as warranted by the owners own assessment of the trade-off between cost to build today versus value of loss + cost to replace. Where there is a social cost, this externality needs to be added to the equation. The lesson is severe weather is more likely but this shouldnt be a reason to stop things being developed. It simply means being clearer about the right things being built in the right places, with trade-off risks being clear to those concerned especially when it involves public implications. A well debated argument, and The Magpie believes that new infrastructure rules about flood plain developments require urgent review. Chronic Cronyism: It Really Has Got To Stop The massive upheaval at executive level in the council has given us a glimpse of the outrageously blatant jobs for the boys and girls culture that the likes of Mooney (himself a beneficiary of the rort) and the mayor make little effort to hide nowadays. A very good case in point is this woman

Shayne Sutton, who is also the wife of Stephen The Screaming Midget Beckett, the lately punted Mayoral shouter at staff and ratepayers. It is not surprising that the council became stacked with imported Labor odd jobbers with questionable qualifications once Mayor Jenny Hills poisonous report commissioned from the Nous group in Melbourne was adopted by council, but Ms Sutton has added a new dimension in the grandest let them eat cake style. The Labor old mates club could not be shielded from view when Mrs Beckett arrived in town, following hubby north after the Qld Labor Party decided because of his bad manners, bad temper and bad judgements were not appreciated in the corridors of central power in Brisbane. Shayne Sutton has been a Brisbane City Councillors for 14 years when they upped sticks for Townsville. But she hadnt been here five minutes it seemed when she landed a plum $44k p.a spot on Tony Mooneys Townsville Hospital Board this has been reported here more than once. Seems mr Mooney just couldnt find any involved local suitable to his requirements. But what The Pie has just been made aware of is as well as handling that onerous hospital task (less than 6 meetings a year), Ms Sutton was a few weeks later tapped on the shoulder by Mayor Mullet for a newly created, totally bullshit position as wait for it the Executive Director of the North Queensland Regional Organisations of Councils (NQROC). The what, you cry? Well, this

Gosh, that must take a bit of doing, you wonder. Sure does, as the job description attests. The executive Director draws on her deep knowledge of the region, its history and its priorities and Provides strategic advocacy and engagement advice to five North Queensland Mayors and CEOs Facilitates regional collaboration between key internal and external stakeholders to progress agreedstrategic priorities for North Queensland Media management Organisational governance and financial reporting This is a made-up position that in fact didnt exist before, and at a guess since the kings of featherbedding the LGAQ are involved probably commanded a salary of around $70-80K. Gee, well, you say, shed have her hands as well as her purse full maybe, but not so much that didnt apply for a job the board of TAFE as well. Dont known how that went, and maybe well never know the full extent of Ms Suttons contribution to a community in which she has lived for barely a year. But this murky NQROC position seems to have been suddenly de-created as far as one can penetrate the layers of obscurity around these goings on, so perhaps she is on her way. Madam, you are a massive leech and our already benighted community can hardly mourn it if you pass on from our midst to infest some other poor bastards treasury. Making The Best Use Of Your Townsville Bulletin This latest in the series of cringe-worthy self-promotions caught The Magpie eye on Friday.

And good on you Freda, you really do look a very sprightly lady. May The Pie add his hearty congratulations on a milestone hell probably not even get within cooee of. And reading your story, mdear, the old bird now perhaps knows the secret of your wonderful longevity you gave a hint when you said your daily dose of news from the Bulletin was what set me up for a good day. Its part of ones everyday routine and I just cant get on without it. Its the first thing I need in the morning. Indeed, Freda. As it does for so many others, probably works better than prunes and porridge at a guess, youd be getting on by page 3 most days. Guess She Finally Came Out Of The Closet Seems the layout blokes at the Scottish Herald had a wee dram too many when they put this page together but then again, it may just have been the world renowned Scottish sense of humour. Eh, Jenna?

New Aussie Tennis Rankings .. Just released

And The Week In Trumpistan

It has come to our attention that too many of you are paying attention. The New Yorker

.. Back again next week, Allah willing, but have your say 24/7 on blog comments, plenty of frisky opinion out there along with information you wont get anywhere else (that is, until the Astonisher trolls have read the blog Mt Isa railway crisis two weeks after the Nest, anyone?) Hope you enjoy what you read here, and any support for the Magpies Nest will be greatly appreciated, the how to donate button is below. http://www.townsvillemagpie.com.au/its-a-bugger-but-maybe-a-blessing-too-do-we-need-to-clean-up-more-than-the-mud-and-mould/

[themoneybuff-blog]

Inspiration from 7 Up, Lauren Oliver, Julien Baker, and More

Once a month (or so), I share a dozen things that have inspired me to greater personal, professional, and financial success in my life. I hope they bring similar success to your life. 1. Thoreau on happiness Happiness is like a butterfly, the more you chase it, the more it will evade you, but if you notice the other things around you, it will gently come and sit on your shoulder. Henry David Thoreau I spent a lot of years of my life chasing happiness, believing that I could somehow build a happy life. What I learned is that such an endeavor is basically impossible. Instead, you should try to build a life thats in line with what your values and principles are, and what youll find is that happiness naturally bubbles up as you get closer and closer to that destination. Happiness is a side effect of doing something worthwhile. When you do worthwhile things, happiness occurs naturally. If you chase happiness for happinesss sake, youll never actually catch it. [embedded content] From the Wikipedia entry on the series: The Up Series is a series of documentary filmsproduced by Granada Television that have followed the lives of fourteen British children since 1964, when they were seven years old. So far the documentary has had eight episodes spanning 49 years (one episode every seven years) and the documentary has been broadcast on both ITV and BBC. In a 2005 Channel 4 programme, the series topped the list of The 50 Greatest Documentaries. The children were selected to represent the range of socio-economic backgrounds in Britain at that time, with the explicit assumption that each childs social class predetermines their future. Every seven years, the director, Michael Apted, films material from those of the fourteen who choose to participate. The last installment, 56 Up, premiered in May 2012; Apted has stated that filming for 63 Up will occur in late 2018, for release in spring 2019. Apted has also been reported as saying: I hope to do 84 Up when Ill be 99. The aim of the series is stated at the beginning of 7 Up as: Why do we bring these children together? Because we want to get a glimpse of England in the year 2000. The shop steward and the executive of the year 2000 are now seven years old. The video embedded above (if you cant see it, you can reach it by clicking on the link) is the full documentary 7 Up, which covers the fourteen children as they were in 1964, as seven year olds. Each subsequent entry in the series revisits most of the children at seven year intervals in their lives, as things go in different directions for them. I watched these for the first time as a marathon in around 2002, when 42 Up was the newest entry available; I watched the entire series again a few years later after 49 Up was released, and yet again with the making of 56 Up. Each time it utterly charmed me and left me thinking about the fragility and difficulty and beauty of human lives. A few days ago, a friend of mine pointed out that all of the films were freely available on Youtube, so theres no reason not to dive in. This Youtube list contains the entire series, starting with 7 Up and continuing through 56 Up, the most recent entry. 3. Lauren Oliver on the whole of people I shiver, thinking how easy it is to be totally wrong about people; to see one tiny part of them and confuse it for the whole. Lauren Oliver I feel like this is a good quote to pair with 7 Up, actually. In that series and in fact, throughout our lives we get only relatively small glances at these people. We see only little slivers of their lives. Even with the best efforts of the filmmakers, this would be true; a filmmaker visiting a person for a few days once every seven years cannot capture their true nature. Yet, as I watch those films, I cant help but draw some conclusions. I think I would be friends with some of them, and Id probably avoid other ones. Those quick takes may or may not be accurate. Im making them based on really limited information about a person. I might be seeing that person at their best or at their worst. I might be seeing a quirky moment thats not emblematic of them as a whole. Its impossible to really tell. What I do know is this: some of the worst mistakes Ive made in life have been due to snap judgments about people, almost all of them more negative than they ever should have been. I drew some very negative conclusions about people and guided my behavior regarding them based on very little information mixed in with my own ideas and assumptions, and it has cost me many potential dear relationships over the years. The tiny part of a person that you actually see is a pretty poor representative of the whole. This article by Jason Fagone chronicles the store of Jerry and Marge Selbee, who, in their retirement, discovered and then exploited holes in the Michigan and Massachusetts state lottery systems. I found myself reading this article one evening while Sarah was busy grading papers, and I couldnt help but mention to her that this is literally the kind of thing that I can see us doing in retirement. Were both curious people who like to understand how systems work. We arent afraid to take big leaps of faith on things that we feel certain about. Id like to think that Sarah and I, in our later years, will go on a lot of quirky adventures, like Jerry and Marge. Im also sharing this because its just a fun story, a well written one by Jason Fagone. This ones really worth your time. 5. Benjamin Franklin on apologies Never ruin an apology with an excuse. Benjamin Franklin One of the hardest things to do is to genuinely apologize when youve made a mistake and not turn it into an excuse or an avenue for blaming others. Anything beyond I messed up is simply a way to deflect blame off of yourself and, in the process, make the apology a lot less valuable. An apology that ends up being nothing more than a redirection of blame or an excuse of a mistake is a worthless apology; in fact, youre often leaving things in an even worse state because the other person perceives that you wont own up to your mistakes. When you mess up, apologize sincerely without excusing your mistake or blaming others. Admit that you messed up, state that youre sorry for it, and that you want to do what you can to make it right and to make sure it wont happen again. Make it clear that its on you, not on anyone else. Its hard to do that. Its much easier to just shovel the blame onto someone or something else. If you do that, though, you eliminate virtually all of the meaning of the apology and look pretty weak to boot. [embedded content] From the description: Do you know what you want when you die? Do you know how you want to be remembered? In a candid, heartfelt talk about a subject most of us would rather not discuss, Michelle Knox asks each of us to reflect on our core values around death and share them with our loved ones, so they can make informed decisions without fear of having failed to honor our legacies. Life would be a lot easier to live if we talked about death now, Knox says. We need to discuss these issues when we are fit and healthy so we can take the emotion out of it and then we can learn not just what is important, but why its important. This whole video harkens back to a big theme Ive come to really understand in my life in the last few years. The best time to talk about something is when youre as far away from emotion as possible regarding that thing. So, for example, dont talk about death when youre sick. Talk about it when youre healthy and vibrant, so theres as little emotion as possible in the subject. When youre talking to your parents about aging, dont do it at their moment of weakness. Wait for a time of strength, when theyre feeling as healthy and unemotional as possible, and then have that discussion. Dont talk about a marital problem when youre both riding the wave of that problem. Talk about it when youre getting along well and youre far away from that problematic area emotionally. This is a key life lesson, one that has stuck with me over the years, and this video really highlights that idea. 7. Roy T. Bennett on self-improvement and criticism Let the improvement of yourself keep you so busy that you have no time to criticize others. Roy T. Bennett Unless criticism is asked for, criticism of others is rarely a worthwhile endeavor. It achieves very little and often has the opposite effect of what you desire, with the recipient ignoring the content of what youre saying and just being upset with you. Hold it in. If you dont have something worthwhile to say, then dont say it at all. That doesnt mean that one should never criticize. A person should definitely criticize from time to time, but it should generally be at the invitation of the person who seeks criticism and is looking for ways to improve. Brutal honesty doesnt achieve anything worthwhile. [embedded content] From the description: In March of 2016, just a handful of months after her debut album Sprained Ankle was released, Julien Baker came and played a quiet, thoughtful Tiny Desk concert that went on to become one of our most popular and certainly one of the most-talked-about Tiny Desk Concerts of the year. (Its now approaching two million views on YouTube alone.) Fast forward to the summer of 2017, when I heard that a new record was imminent. I dont usually ask an artist back for a second Tiny Desk Concert simply because they have a new release but for Julien, I had to make an exception. With all the love that surrounded her first visit to the NPR offices, I reached out to ask if she would be willing to do something different this time around. Last fall, she delivered. All the songs for her return to the Tiny Desk come from last years Turn Out The Lights. Just a few weeks before the albums release, she came to Washington; we tuned our piano, she brought violinist Camille Faulkner. The first two songs, Hurt Less and Even, were accompanied by Camille, with Julien on piano for the opening tune and acoustic guitar on the second. Its quite stunning, as she sings: Putting my fist through the plaster in the bathroom of a Motel 6 I must have pictured it all a thousand times I swear to God I think Im gonna die I know you were right I cant be fixed, so help me For the last, Julien put together an arrangement of Appointments that begins on electric guitar, which then was looped as a backdrop to her on piano and voice. Julien Baker is a massively talented songwriter with a deeply caring heart and a perfectionist streak all of which delivered to her a career-making year. We are so thrilled to have her return. Set List Hurt Less Even Appointments Shes just fantastic. Well worth a listen. 9. Inspirational notes For the last several months, about once a week or so, Ill stick a note inside of one of my childrens backpacks. Its a note card in an envelope with their name on the front, and on the inside, I just write a short note saying something I admire about their character and how I hope they share that with the world. It takes me about ten minutes or so to do this. I just stop for a little bit, think of some truly worthwhile characteristic that one of my children possesses, and then Ill write about it. Ill tell a quick anecdote about when I saw that characteristic used in a positive way, how I am incredibly proud that Im their parent when I see them using that aspect of themselves, a gentle encouragement to use that characteristic in other aspects of their life, and a general reminder that I love them. Thats it nothing fancy. I know that my kids have read the notes because of comments Ive overheard, but not one of them has said a word about them to me. I do know that theyre read, though, and I do know that theyre thought about, and thats enough. Will it make a positive difference? Maybe. I think it will, given enough time. Dont just get inspired. Be an inspiration. 10. Muhammad Ali on the pebble in your shoe It isnt the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; its the pebble in your shoe. Muhammad Ali Its often one or two little details that make the difference between success and failure. You might be able to perfectly nail everything else you need for a diet, but its that mid-afternoon wave of hunger that you thoughtlessly indulge that undoes things. You might have perfect control over your spending except for that one little linchpin. Maybes its online spending at a particular website, or maybe its regular splurging on food. Whatever it is, theres often some little detail that puts a big scratch on the beautiful surface of your progress. The thing is, its far more meaningful to stop and pull that pebble out of your shoe than to keep on running for a little bit longer and just quit. Fix the little problems before they become big ones. [embedded content] From the description: When trying to come up with a new idea, we all have times when we get stuck. But according to research by behavioral and learning scientist Marily Oppezzo, getting up and going for a walk might be all it takes to get your creative juices flowing. In this fun, fast talk, she explains how walking could help you get the most out of your next brainstorm. Going on walks is unquestionably my most powerful creative tool. I dont have anything else in my repertoire that really compares to it. Its part of the reason why winters are often very hard in terms of writing productivity the weather rarely cooperates with the kind of long outdoor walk that I enjoy. While I enjoy winter in small doses, I wouldnt be surprised at all to find Sarah and I living further south in the winter months when we are older. I think it agrees much better with both of us. Still, I cant laud walking enough if youre trying to piece through a difficult idea in your head or youre trying to brainstorm some solutions. 12. JFK on strength Do not pray for easy lives, my friends. Pray to be stronger men. John Fitzgerald Kennedy Hoping that the future will become easier wont really help very much. Its very likely that the future wont become easier. Instead, recognize that your life right now probably is easier than it will be in the future and plan accordingly. Work a little harder today so you dont have to work quite as hard tomorrow. Save a little money today so you dont have to scramble tomorrow. Dont hope for an easier life. Work for a stronger you. https://www.thesimpledollar.com/inspiration-from-7-up-lauren-oliver-julien-baker-and-more/