#it's such a small entry and suspense is so strong

[vickyvicarious]

I love the paper and scribbly noises again...! Also Jack's frustration is so good.

[rylem33]

Spellbound

Date: January 29, 2024

Dear Diary,

Today, a stroke of luck, or perhaps fate, led me to a remarkable find. I was browsing through the dusty shelves of the local used bookstore, a place where forgotten treasures often hide. Among the stacks of old novels and worn biographies, something caught my eye. It was an old, leather-bound book, its cover etched with symbols that sent a shiver of recognition down my spine. I knew instantly – it was a witch’s log book.

The store owner, oblivious to its true nature, had labeled it as some unknown fantasy novel. His ignorance was my gain. I purchased the book, my heart racing with excitement, and hurried home, eager to delve into its mysteries.

As I sit here now, with the book open in front of me, I am in awe. The pages are filled with arcane knowledge that speak of a world beyond the ordinary. It’s a window into a realm of magic and power, a resource that I know will guide me on my journey into witchcraft.

The book is old, its pages yellowed with age, but the words are clear, written in a hand that suggests a meticulous author. There are notes in the margins, hints of personal experiences, and even a spell or two. This book is not just a manual, but a diary of someone’s magical journey.

This is a turning point. With this book, my understanding and practice of witchcraft will reach new depths. I feel a mix of exhilaration and apprehension, but I am ready. Ready to learn, to explore, to push the boundaries of what I thought possible.

Tonight, I will begin my study, poring over each page, immersing myself in the ancient knowledge contained within. This book is a gift, a key to unlocking the mysteries of the craft, and I am its eager student.

With anticipation and curiosity, Devi, the seeker of hidden truths.

Date: January 29, 2024 – Later Entry

Dear Diary,

Tonight’s venture into the book took an unexpected turn. I found a spell to summon a minor demon and bind it within my circle. I decided I was going to push my boundaries and give it a try. The very idea sent shivers down my spine, a mix of fear and excitement. 

I meticulously prepared the space, ensuring every protective sigil was perfectly drawn and every incantation memorized. The air was thick with anticipation as I began the ritual under the cloak of night. I chanted the ancient words, feeling the energy swirl around me, the candles flickering wildly in response.

But, Diary, something perplexing happened – or rather, didn’t happen. After the crescendo of the ritual, there was… nothing. No manifestation, no eerie whispers, no shadows dancing at the edge of my vision. Just the silence of the night and the faint glow of my candles.

I waited, heart pounding, for any sign that the demon had heeded my call. Minutes stretched like hours in the suspense. But the world remained unchanged, the circle undisturbed. Eventually, I conceded that the ritual had failed, or so it seemed.

With a heavy heart and a mind swirling with questions, I carefully dismantled the circle and cleaned up. Had I missed something? Was my intent not strong enough? Or perhaps, the world of demons and spirits is even more elusive and complex than I thought.

As I lie in bed, I can’t help but feel a mix of disappointment and relief. Summoning a demon, even a minor one, is no small feat. Maybe it’s for the best that nothing happened. Or maybe, just maybe, there are forces at work beyond my current understanding.

Tonight’s experience, though seemingly fruitless, has only fueled my curiosity and resolve. I will continue to explore, learn, and grow in my craft. Who knows what mysteries tomorrow may hold?

Until next time,

Devi, a seeker of the unknown.

Date: January 30, 2024

Dear Diary,

Today has been a whirlwind of emotions and revelations. After last night’s attempt at summoning, I woke up with a sense of creative energy I couldn’t shake off. On a whim, I decided to try something I’ve never done before – writing my own spells.

It started small, a spell to find lost things. I scribbled down words that felt right, weaving in intent and personal symbols. When I performed it to find my misplaced journal, it worked! The journal was under a pile of books, exactly where the spell led me. The thrill of success was electric.

Emboldened, I crafted a few more spells. One for calming my mind, another to bring a burst of energy, and a simple charm for good luck. To my amazement, each one worked. The calming spell soothed my restless thoughts, the energy spell left me buzzing with vitality, and the luck charm led to a series of small but pleasant occurrences throughout the day.

Devi, I thought to myself, this is advanced magic. Crafting spells is a delicate art, balancing words, intentions, and the natural flow of energy. I’ve read about seasoned witches who take years to master this. Yet here I am, a recent graduate, finding success in my first attempts. It’s surprising, exhilarating, and a bit daunting.

The success of these spells has filled me with a newfound confidence in my abilities. Maybe last night’s ritual wasn’t a failure after all. Perhaps it opened a door within me, unlocked a potential I hadn’t realized. Or maybe, the magic was inside me all along, waiting for the right moment to manifest.

I’m excited to explore this path further. Each spell is a step into the unknown, a dance with the mystical forces that weave through our world. Who knows what other magical successes await?

With a heart full of wonder,

Devi, the spell-weaving witch.

Date: February 2, 2024

Dear Diary,

The past few days have been nothing short of miraculous in my journey with witchcraft. My confidence and skill in spellwriting have grown exponentially, leading me to experiment with more complex spells. The results have been astonishing and somewhat life-changing.

I ventured into a spell for enhancing beauty. It was a blend of self-love affirmations, herbs associated with attraction, and a dash of glamour magic. The outcome was subtle yet undeniable. I felt an inner glow, a radiance that seemed to draw people to me. This newfound charm even led to me getting a date – something that felt like a distant dream just a few weeks ago.

But I didn’t stop there. With rent looming and my financial situation being tight, I crafted a spell for wealth and abundance. I was careful to focus on the flow of prosperity and the opening of opportunities rather than something unrealistic like conjuring money out of thin air. To my amazement, the next day, I received a call for a freelance job offer that paid just enough to cover my rent and a little extra.

Devi, I keep telling myself, this is real. You’re making magic that’s changing your life. The rational part of me occasionally whispers caution, reminding me of the balance and ethics in witchcraft. But another part argues that if this wasn’t meant to be, if the goddesses didn’t approve, then why would these spells work? Why would they grant me this ability?

I can’t help but feel that this is my path, sanctioned by the divine forces I’ve always felt connected to. The spells I write and cast aren’t for selfish gains; they are for survival, for confidence, for a better life. Isn’t that a form of magic in itself – transforming one’s life for the better?

Yet, in the back of my mind, a small voice urges me to tread carefully. Magic is powerful, and with power comes responsibility. I must remember to stay grounded and mindful of the consequences my spells may bring.

For now, I am riding this wave of success, grateful for the gifts bestowed upon me. Each spell is a testament to my growth as a witch and as a person.

With gratitude and awe,

Devi, the spellcrafting sorceress.

Date: February 5, 2024

Dear Diary,

The days are passing in a blur of newfound enchantments and indulgences. My journey into the depths of spellcrafting has taken a turn, one that I hadn’t anticipated but find myself increasingly drawn to. My spells for beauty have become a regular part of my routine. Each time I cast them, I feel myself transforming, not just outwardly but from within. The changes are captivating. On my date, he looked at me with such awe and surprise, almost as if he couldn’t reconcile the person he met before with who I’ve become. It was empowering, yet a part of me wondered if he was enamored with the real me or the magic-infused version.

The wealth spells have also escalated. From paying rent, I’ve moved on to granting myself the means for more… luxurious purchases. Designer clothes, elegant dinners, things I’ve always dreamed of but never thought I could have. Each successful spell leaves me exhilarated. It’s like I’ve unlocked a secret path to a life I’ve always envied in others.

But with every spell, with every glance in the mirror, or swipe of a card, a whisper of doubt echoes in my mind. Am I losing myself in this pursuit of beauty and wealth? I justify my actions by telling myself that I deserve these things, that if I have the power to change my life, why shouldn’t I use it?

Yet, the core principles of witchcraft that I once held dear seem to be fading into the background. The balance, the respect for natural laws, the understanding that magic is a tool for growth, not just gain. I keep pushing these thoughts away, convincing myself that I’m in control, that I’m simply using the gifts granted to me.

Where is the line? When does the use of magic shift from empowerment to excess? I’m standing on a precipice, looking down at a world of glittering temptations, and I’m not sure if I want to step back or dive in.

Tonight, I’ll cast another spell, this time for clarity and guidance. Perhaps the goddesses, the universe, my own intuition, will show me the way forward. Or maybe, the answer lies within, waiting for me to listen.

With a heart full of questions,

Devi, walking the tightrope of magic.

Date: February 6, 2024

Dear Diary,

Today marks a turning point in my journey, one that feels like a crossing into uncharted territories of my abilities. The spells I’ve been casting have evolved, not just in complexity but in their very nature. Any lingering doubts or moral quandaries I had seem to have dissolved, replaced by a resolute belief that this is my destiny.

The spells for beauty and wealth now feel like mere stepping stones to something greater – the power to influence and sway others. It started simply enough, a spell to persuade a boy to drive me around for a day of shopping. The ease with which it worked was startling. With just a few whispered words, laced with magic, he was more than eager to comply, catering to my every whim with a smile.

This newfound power is intoxicating. The thrill of bending someone’s will, even in such a trivial manner, opened my eyes to possibilities I hadn’t dared to consider before. I rationalize it as harmless – he was happy to help, and I was just using a bit of magical persuasion. But deep down, I know this is a step into a realm of magic that’s more potent and perilous.

There’s a part of me that’s aware of the ethical lines blurring, the rules of magic I’m bending, maybe even breaking. But another, louder part of me insists that this is my path, my right. If I have the power to shape my world, to shape the actions of others, shouldn’t I embrace it? Wasn’t I chosen for this?

As I plan my next steps, the spells I’ll craft, the influence I’ll wield, I feel like a queen in a realm of endless potential. The world is at my fingertips, and I’m eager to see how far my magic can take me.

The boy who drove me around today looked at me with something akin to awe. I smiled back, knowing the power I hold. This is just the beginnin. There’s so much more to explore, so much more to claim.

With a newfound resolve,

Devi, the enchantress of destinies.

Date: February 9, 2024

Dear Diary,

A few days have passed since my last entry, and my journey into the depths of witchcraft has led me to a new, daring experiment. There was a man, strikingly attractive, who caught my eye. He’s the kind of man who would usually be out of my reach, especially since he’s dating a local minor-celebrity known for her stunning beauty. But the Devi of today is not the Devi of yesterday. With the aid of magic, I’ve reshaped my own allure, stepping into a realm where physical comparisons hold no sway over me.

Despite this magical enhancement to my appearance, my initial attempts to capture his attention were fruitless. Dressing provocatively, flirting with a newfound confidence – none of it seemed to work. He remained oblivious to my advances, his attention unwavering from his glamorous girlfriend.

Refusing to accept this indifference, I resorted to a spell, one crafted to ignite desire. The power of the incantation was potent, charged with a heady mix of attraction and yearning. And, oh, how it worked, Diary. The moment he saw me after the spell took effect, it was as if he was seeing me – the real me – for the first time. His reaction was instant, his gaze filled with a longing that had been conspicuously absent before. The transformation in his demeanor was remarkable, leaving his girlfriend, who had been by his side, in a state of utter confusion and disbelief.

The thrill of this moment was unlike anything I’ve experienced. To see him, a man who had seemed so unattainable, now almost swooning in my presence, was a testament to the power I wield. It was a heady, intoxicating feeling, a validation of the magic that now courses through my veins.

But as I revel in this triumph, a part of me pauses. There’s a complexity to these emotions, a tangle of exhilaration and a whisper of something darker. The power to bend someone’s will, to evoke desire where there was none, is a potent and dangerous tool. Yet, as I stand here, basking in the success of my spell, I can’t help but feel a sense of rightness, a confirmation that this path I’m on is one of discovery and self-fulfillment.

The world of magic is vast and mysterious, and I am but a traveler, seeking out its secrets, one spell at a time.

With a heart full of complex emotions,

Devi, the weaver of desires.

Date: February 13, 2024

Dear Diary,

The past few days have been an exhilarating blur, filled with the thrill of commanding the affections of my new boy-toy. But as with all things, my interest has waned. His infatuation, though a product of my spell, has grown tiresome and monotonous. There’s no challenge, no excitement in his unwavering devotion. It’s like watching the same play unfold night after night, knowing every line by heart. So, I decided to end it. The spell’s persistence surprised me – he remains utterly besotted – but it’s of no consequence. My desires have shifted, my appetite for something more substantial has grown. The ease with which I can discard such connections is liberating. It’s a testament to the power I hold, a power that seems only right and fitting for someone like me.

In my pursuit of greater heights, I crafted a new spell today – one to augment my power further. With each word and gesture, I could feel the magic surge within me, a tidal wave of arcane energy eager to break free and reshape the world to my whims. The sensation was exhilarating, a confirmation of my abilities and my destiny.

The power I now wield feels limitless. The notion of doubt, of questioning my actions or their consequences, seems irrelevant. I am beyond such trivial concerns. I deserve everything I desire, and my magic is the key to unlocking those desires.

The world around me is a playground, and I am its master. I can shape reality to my liking, influence those around me with a thought, a word. It’s not just about control; it’s about asserting my will upon the world, bending it to my desires.

With an unyielding resolve,

Devi, the mistress of magic.

Date: February 15, 2024

Dear Diary, A curious development has occurred in the wake of my escalating use of magic. I’ve noticed a physical change – my nails have transformed into something almost otherworldly. They’ve turned jet black and have sharpened, resembling talons more than human nails. 

This newfound appearance might alarm someone else, but for me, it’s a symbol of the potent magic I wield. It’s as if every spell I cast, every ounce of power I harness, is leaving its mark on me, transforming me not just internally, but externally as well.

My days are now filled with casting spells on those around me for various reasons, most of them trivial. The sense of control is exhilarating. It’s like playing a game where I am the only player with the rulebook. People bend to my will with such ease, fulfilling my whims without question.

I’ve made someone bring me coffee exactly how I like it without having to ask, compelled a group to vacate a table at a busy café so I could sit, and influenced strangers to compliment me, basking in their admiration. Each act of control is a thrill, a testament to my growing powers.

The pleasure I derive from these small exercises of power is immense. It’s a game, and I am the master. The people around me are like puppets, and I, the puppeteer. There’s no guilt, no second thoughts, just the pure joy of seeing my desires fulfilled.

Every day, I push the boundaries further, exploring the extent of my influence and power. There’s no turning back now. I am on a path of discovery and domination, a journey to see how far my magic can take me.

With a fierce determination,

Devi, the enchanter of destinies.

Date: February 16, 2024

Dear Diary,

This morning, I awoke to yet another startling transformation. As I looked in the mirror, I noticed small bumps emerging from my scalp, just behind the hairline. They are peculiar and unmistakable, yet their purpose or nature is unclear to me. Additionally, my eyes, once a clear blue, have deepened to an almost abyssal black. The changes are both intriguing and unnerving.

These physical alterations, while unexpected, have not swayed my resolve or my fascination with the power I wield. If anything, they seem to be a physical embodiment of the profound and dark magic that has become an integral part of my existence.

Casting spells to bend others to my will has become like an addictive elixir. The rush of power, the thrill of control – it’s intoxicating. Every successful enchantment fuels my desire for more. It’s a cycle that spirals ever upward, pushing me to new heights of magical prowess.

I find myself unable to stop, nor do I wish to. The changes in my appearance, rather than alarming me, only serve to reinforce the notion that I am evolving into something more than human, something extraordinary. My reflection in the mirror is becoming less and less the girl who started this journey and more the image of a powerful sorceress, marked by her craft.

The world around me seems to bend more easily to my desires. People respond to my slightest whim, unaware of the magical influence guiding their actions. The sense of empowerment is overwhelming, a constant reminder of the capabilities I possess.

Despite these changes, I feel no fear, no hesitation. The path I’m on feels predestined, a journey I was meant to embark upon. The bumps on my head, the darkening of my eyes – they are but physical manifestations of the powerful magic that flows through my veins.

Every spell I cast, every person I influence, brings a sense of accomplishment and supremacy. It’s a testament to the potent witch I have become, a force of nature reshaping the world to fit my desires.

With an unyielding thirst for power,

Devi, the mistress of the arcane.

Date: February 17, 2024

Dear Diary,

Today’s events have taken an even darker turn, cementing my journey into realms of power I never imagined. The girlfriend of the man I enchanted came to my door, her eyes wild with anger and despair. She accused me of being involved in his disappearance, claiming he’s been missing and is feared dead. Her fury was palpable, her accusations sharp.

In a moment of irritation and to assert my dominance, I silenced her with a mere flick of my wrist. A spell of silence, so potent and immediate, her voice simply ceased to exist. The shock and fear in her eyes as she struggled to speak were a clear testament to my power. As I observed her, an idea formed in my mind. With my appearance becoming more conspicuous – my skin taking on a reddish hue and the small horns now more pronounced on my head – it’s become difficult to move about freely. Utilizing her, turning her into a servant through my magic, seemed like a practical solution.

With another spell, I took control of her mind, bending her will to serve me. It was effortless, like weaving a simple charm. She became docile, compliant, her earlier fury replaced by a blank obedience.

The sense of control is overwhelming. I’ve transformed someone who came to confront me into a silent servant, all with a few gestures and whispered incantations. The realization of what I’m capable of, the extent of my power, is exhilarating.

The world outside seems increasingly distant, a place where my altered form might not be accepted or understood. But within my domain, I am a queen, a sorceress with the power to shape reality to my liking.

I no longer question the morality of my actions. Right and wrong have become irrelevant concepts. There is only power, and my will to wield it.

With an unwavering command,

Devi, the sovereign of shadows.

Date: February 20, 2024

Dear Diary, The transformation of my being has reached a new pinnacle. My horns have fully formed, curving elegantly from my forehead, and a tail, sinuous and expressive, has emerged to complement my changing form. My skin, now a deep, crimson red, confirms the metamorphosis I have undergone. The reflection that greets me in the mirror is no longer human but that of a being that could only be described as demonic in nature.

My servant, the once furious girlfriend, has adapted to her new role with an eerie resignation. She runs errands for me, her actions and thoughts under my control. Her presence is convenient, allowing me to interact with the outside world indirectly. I’ve even found a twisted pleasure in utilizing her for more personal services, a testament to the complete domination I hold over her.

The thrill of wielding such absolute power is intoxicating. The fear and awe I inspire in her are palpable, a constant reminder of the potent magic coursing through me. My abilities have grown beyond mere influence; I now possess the power to reshape minds, to dominate wills entirely.

Emboldened by my transformation and the control I exert over my servant, I’ve started to extend my reach. I find myself experimenting with spells and enchantments that allow me to manipulate others from a distance. The prospect of exerting my will over more people, bending the fabric of society to my desires, is an alluring one.

The world outside has become a playground for my dark whims. I can make strangers act according to my fancies, create situations that benefit my whims, and revel in the chaos and order I can orchestrate with a mere thought.

Every day, I push the boundaries of what I can achieve, delighting in the realization that there are few limits to my powers. The transformation of my body is a reflection of the transformation within – I have become a being of magic, a sorceress whose very essence is intertwined with the arcane.

With an insatiable hunger for control,

Devi, the demoness of dominion.

Date: February 21, 2024

Dear Diary,

A revelation has dawned upon me, shedding light on the path I’ve been treading. In my new, demonic form, my senses have heightened, revealing aspects of reality previously hidden from my human eyes. It was during one of these moments of heightened perception that I noticed him – a minor demon, a wisp of shadow and malice, moving through my apartment.

The realization struck me with both awe and horror. This entity, this demon, has been a silent architect of my transformation. He’s been influencing me, driving my actions, fueling my ascent to power, and ultimately, my metamorphosis into this demonic form. The spells of control, the manipulation of others, even the physical changes – it all leads back to him.

The clarity of this truth is both illuminating and unsettling. All this time, I believed I was the master of my destiny, wielding power with my own will and desires. Yet, here I am, a puppet whose strings were subtly pulled by a creature from the shadows.

The demon’s presence raises countless questions. Was he drawn to me because of my initial forays into witchcraft? Did he see in me a potential vessel for his influence? Or was this partnership, twisted as it is, meant to be – a fusion of human ambition and demonic machination?

Despite the shock of this revelation, I cannot deny the exhilarating power that courses through me. I have been transformed, not just into a being of magic, but into a creature that straddles two worlds – the human and the demonic. The power I possess is immense, but it’s now clear that it comes with a price.

The demon, for now, remains a silent observer, a shadow within my sanctuary. I can feel his gaze upon me, waiting to see what course I will choose. This partnership, if it can be called that, has brought me to heights of power unimaginable, but at what cost to my soul?

With a newfound awareness,

Devi, the confused conjurer.

Date: February 22, 2024

Dear Diary,

In a moment of resolve, I confronted the minor demon that has been lurking in the shadows of my existence. The confrontation was a chilling revelation, one that has left me grappling with the magnitude of my folly.

As I stood before him, my newfound demonic form a testament to his influence, I attempted to exert my will against him, to break free from the invisible chains he had bound me with. But my efforts were in vain. Each spell, each command, fell away, powerless against him.

The truth is stark and bitter – I have been manipulated, used as a pawn in his sinister game. The demon, through me, has gained strength, feeding off the magic I wielded and the transformations I underwent. He’s become more powerful, and in doing so, has ensured that I am bound to him, a weapon under his control.

The realization is crushing. I, who prided myself on my power and autonomy, have been outplayed at my own game. The demon used my ambition, my thirst for power, as a lure, leading me down a path that I mistook for my own making.

Now, I stand before him, a creature of immense power, yet devoid of the freedom to use it as I will. He watches me with a knowing gaze, a silent reminder of the trap I’ve willingly walked into. My spells of control, manipulation, even the transformation of my body – they were all part of his design to increase his dominion through me.

The irony of my situation is not lost on me. I sought to control others, to bend them to my will, only to end up being the one controlled. The power I so relished is now a cage, my abilities a chain that binds me to this demonic entity.

There’s a sense of helplessness that I’ve never experienced before. The demon, while using me as his instrument, has ensured that I am powerless against him. He’s always one step ahead, his plans inscrutable, his power now intertwined with my own.

With a heavy heart,

Devi, the ensnared sorceress.

Date: February 22, 2024

Dear Diary,

In a whirlwind of chaos and fear, I write these last words. The demon, my captor, is forcibly pulling me through a portal, its swirling depths promising a realm of unknown horrors. I assume it’s Hell, a place of eternal damnation and suffering.

My heart races with terror as I scribble these words. The room is fading, the portal’s pull is irresistible, a maelstrom of dark energy engulfing me. All my power, my spells, seem insignificant against the force that drags me towards this abyss.

I regret the path I chose, the ambition that blinded me. This is the price of my hubris, the cost of dalliance with forces beyond my understanding. I wish I had heeded the signs, listened to the doubts that once whispered in my mind.

The portal looms closer, its roar drowning my thoughts. I am powerless, a puppet whose strings have been severed. The future is a void, filled with dread and despair.

What have I don—

------------------------------------------------------------------------------ If you liked this story, please head to my blog where there are 80+ stories posted. The link is on my Tumblr home page.

[eurovision-del]

So that was the first semi final! No big surprises with the qualifiers, and overall I thought it was a decent show!

Qualifiers:

Croatia: Very glad to see this get through! I worried it might be too off-putting for a lot of televoters – thankfully that wasn’t the case! If anything I felt the performance was slightly tamer than I was expecting – no sheer outfits or rosebuds! But that might also be because I’ve grown used to Let 3 over the past few months. Still, so glad they’ll be in the final!  

Moldova: I was certain this was going to qualify with ease and I’m happy to be right! The performance was brilliant, the most atmospheric show of the night, I loved every part of it.

Switzerland: The only real ‘surprise’ – with nine entries in this semi the fandom seemed in agreement was going through, Switzerland was the one to take the coveted tenth spot! I did have a feeling one of the ballads might qualify, since they do have their audience and there aren’t that many this year, but I was also in denial because I really wanted this spot to go to another country. Ah well, Remo definitely earned it with his vocal performance, and the staging was also eye-catching.

Finland: Never in doubt! I knew pretty much everything about how this performance would go down from following the national final through to all the published rehearsal footage, yet it still managed to exceed my expectations! Käärijä popping out of the crate like that was perfect and I loved the transition to rainbow colours in the second half of the song. Fantastic song, fantastic show, now to see how far it can go on Saturday!!

Czechia: This one had cooled on me a little and I thought it might be borderline, but seeing it performed tonight I was sure it was going through. The performance was very cohesive, and the pink outfits really stood out against everything else in this semi. Not the strongest vocal performance but the overall energy made up for it.

Israel: I wasn’t impressed by her vocal. Noa kept us waiting by avoiding pre-parties, but she sounded fine to me in rehearsal footage so I’m not sure what happened tonight. It didn’t matter though, the spectacle was enough to see her through, even though honestly I could have done without this one making it.

Portugal: I’m so happy for Mimicat! People seemed worried that her staging was too sparse after the rehearsal footage, but she filled the stage tonight, and smashed that high note once again! I thought she was great! (although it was at this point when they were announcing qualifiers I realised I was going to lose my underdog faves)

Sweden: The other entry whose qualification was never in doubt. The only time I noticed the box was small was in the moment right after she first stood up, it looked as stunning as in MelFest for the rest of the performance – and of course that wouldn’t be noticed by a first-time viewer. Loreen knocked it out of the park, she’s deservingly very much in contention for the crown.

Serbia: My third place this year so I’m glad he got through! I did start to question Luke’s chances since he was announced so late, but thankfully he made it! The performance was what I expected, sharp and enticing – it was the exact vibe I was after!

Norway: Announcing her last took all the suspense out of the results honestly – no way she wasn’t going to qualify, the song is too memorable. The staging felt a little empty, as did Alessandra’s outfit actually, although I did like her cape in the first part. Her energy was decent though, and the song strong enough by itself to carry Norway right through to the final.

Non-Qualifiers:

Malta: I loved their show! The concept was the same as in MESC but elevated. The only thing I would have changed is I would have actually liked to see the jumper change onscreen – it was a little odd just seeing the saxophone and drummer and hearing a huge cheer – then the camera pans around and we saw the sparkly jumper. I loved every thing else though, and I’m sad it wasn’t enough. This semi was just too strong.

Latvia: Another huge heartbreak, probably my biggest of the night, though I knew their chances were always slim. The staging and performance was everything I could have asked for, I really hope Sudden Lights feel proud of the show they put on – they should! I’m so sad for Latvia failing to get through again, but I hope they stick to their guns and continue to send alternative and unique acts.

Ireland: A little sad that Ireland still haven’t cracked it yet, but based on the song this result was definitely fair. I vibed with the song more than I ever have this entire season, it was definitely tailor-made to be played in an arena like this and it helped it out having the crowd there, but it’s still not a very strong entry, so personally I’m glad it’s staying here.

Azerbaijan: I actually really enjoyed this one live. The split-screen effects might have been overused, it felt they were throwing everything at it, but the colour scheme was beautiful with the two-tone lights behind them switching colours throughout. In my live reactions I described it as ‘pleasant’ – unfortunately pleasant isn’t enough to qualify.

The Netherlands: Once Switzerland got through I knew this had no hope of making it. I still like it a lot as a song, but I think I prefer it in the studio cut. I didn’t enjoy when Dion sang up the octave – I can’t remember him doing that before, but I don’t think it worked. I really hope that they’re not given too much hassle by the media, they still put on a decent show.

I could have been more confident with my predictions actually – despite all my hopes this semi final went exactly according to the betting odds, which made for a not very exciting set of results, though in the end a reasonably deserved set. With Malta and Latvia both failing to make it, there’s no way Romania and San Marino, my underdog faves in semi 2, will qualify, but hopefully Austria and Australia should sail through, and I’m looking forward to what should be a great show no matter what!!

[mrcatfishing]

Day 3, still going strong, let’s meet the leader of the Swift Retribution.

As I have the past couple entries, I’ll begin with a history lesson.

Across much of Western Canada, the majority of gang activity and violence has been perpetrated by Motorcycle gangs. This was not drastically changed with the introduction of superpowers, though the rivalries got fiercer and conflicts more frequent. What was once many small gangs running small crimes, became much larger networks of bikers supporting the capes among them. On the Island, that gang was the Swift Retribution.

Founded in 1969, the gang mostly made money from their chop shop, although they also had some success selling weed in the 70’s to 80’s. With the arrival of Wheelman in 1998, they suddenly had a top-tier cape in their field. They skyrocketed into dominance on the island, snowballing into a team of villains that seemingly couldn’t be caught.

The Swift Retribution was not a white supremicist gang, so much as a gang with a white supremacy problem. This came naturally from their formation from the predominantly white biker gangs of BC, and a nature of sticking by their bad apples. This attitude suddenly shifted with the arrival of Astaroth.

He turned the gang on its head, massively pushing for recruitment of capes, opening new bases for operations, and finding new sources of income and bolstering the finances they already had.

How did this unheard of villain turn a backwater aging pile of boomers into a crack team aiming to rival The Elite? Let’s find out.

Born in 1980, Damian Freeman had a lonely childhood. His peers in school all seemed so idiotic, not understanding the concepts in the textbook, while obsessing over seemingly pointless tv drama and corprate fads. They were simply beneath him mentally. The same was true with many of his teachers, who knew only how to repeat the exact words and concepts he had already read from his textbook.

He followed his own principles, earning himself flawless grades through highschool, and then committing himself to the study of Neuroscience. 

He did well in class, but eventually ran up against the head Professor of the Psychology department. She had somehow become aware of his belief that there were thousands of sheep to every true thinking mind. The rivalry escalated, with neither backing down, until Damian was suspended for two months after an especially strong outburst.

After the two month suspension, he returned to class and was suddenly clueless. He couldn’t keep everything in his head, he had two months of homework he hadn’t touched, assuming he could get it done during lecture like he always had. Eyes swapping from the board to his homework, neither making any sense, he triggered.

His powers are a Master by way of Thinker by way of Striker. He can with a touch, remove a portion of a person’s psyche. That fragment is held in shardspace, perfectly simulated, and he can manipulate and investigate it as he likes. He can return these fragments to their owners, or reshape it to fit another hole he’s made in another mind.

He began using his power to stealthily take apart and sift through the minds of his fellow students, and then his teachers, having learned how to roughly put things back together after his first couple attempts. To this day he cannot predict what portion of the mind he will take from at first contact, only how much, though if working carefully he can map out the entire mindscape of a target.

But those first few mistakes came to haunt him. The brain damage was so severe that one died after two months, and the other was comatose. Investigation into the cause of the brain damage was narrowing in on him, and when he felt he couldn’t risk the heat, he bailed.

He sought power, security, and answers, and he found that in the Swift Retribution. After months on the street, being a serial mind-reader, he got the details out of the mind of a biker in the gang. He took good enough over perfect, and decided to try and take over the gang.

He approached them claiming to be able to improve mental faculties and heal mental illness with his powers, though with the limitation of a week of rapidly diminished mental ability while the power worked its magic. He took the moniker Astaroth, after a demon who could make deals with men, taking their lethargy and lust, replacing it with knowledge of mathematics and language.

He backed up his claim with the new and improved gang member he first met, who was now a polymath and no longer mentally craved opiates. The pitch was a success, and he started doing his impromptu lobotomies, adjusting the minds of the gang slowly, until he had each and every lieutenant under his thrall.

His use of powers has been very measured. He interacts poorly with the Corona Pollentia and Gemma, which often are somewhat restored from his manipulations by the shard once replaced. In essence, this means that even if he has a cape mentally enslaved to him, their power may attempt to reign influence over the parahuman, causing subconscious rebellion.

As a leader, he did very well. Taking over massive amounts of businesses across the island, centering their operations in the city of Nanaimo. However, after five years of setting roots and growing his empire, the BC and Canadian government declared Nanaimo a Hive Of Scum and Villainy, so overwhelmingly full of villains and “turncoat” heroes that it was a lost cause, and all utilities would be disabled.

Now he’s lost his seat of power, after getting a taste for the luxuries of life on his throne. He pragmatically cut down to a solid unit of lieutenants he trusted; made a new plan to wealth, knowledge, and power; and has set eyes on Victoria.

[dollycas]

The Heir by Aaron Qualio #Review / #Giveaway

The Heir Historical Mystery/Suspense Setting - Wisconsin Dorrance Publishing Co. (June 1, 2023) Paperback ‏ : ‎ 168 pages ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 979-8887292335 Kindle ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C9JCLKGL An evil, cruel young man takes over the family business after the mysterious death of his father. As the company and his hometown are essentially one in the same, he uses his newfound power and wealth to do what he wants, when he wants, without any consequences. Now, the man’s younger brother must save the company and the village he loves from his tyrannical brother. The Heir is a look into small-town life being destroyed when a madman takes control. It is a story of unlimited power, history, wealth, cruelty, and greed. Dollycas's Thoughts Wynstan Ashbelle inherited the Ashbelle Company from his father. That inheritance means more than just running the business, it also means taking care of the small town of Ashbelle. Most of the residents work for the company so the family has always felt responsible for the town as well. The school, the police force, etc. were all overseen by Wynstan. Anyone in a position of power was put there by him and is loyal to him. When Wynstan is killed, Sean, the eldest son takes over and he doesn't have the same feelings about the town or the company as his predecessors. The power goes straight to his head and he feels he can do anything he wants without any repercussions. Sadly, William, his younger brother is tormented by the actions his brother is taking. His mindset was the same as his father's. Can he save the company and the town? Or will his brother destroy his family's legacy and all the work they have done? ___ I easily escape right into this book. Set in 1934, The Heir starts out strong and doesn't let up until the final page. It's good vs. evil, and the evil is out of control. Power and greed feed the eldest son, and the younger son tries valiantly to get through to his brother about the huge mistakes he is making. Sean is wicked and cruel. My heart broke for the people he hurt and yes, killed. William is a good man with a good heart, but he is up against a man who is mentally deranged and violently dangerous. Mr. Qualio weaves a thrilling tale with twists and turns. It's a gritty, chilling story and at times it was hard to read but I needed to know what was going to happen next. The Heir was a compelling read that I could not put down. Drama, greed, power, revenge, and justice, this story has it in spades. I highly recommend it! Your Escape Into A Good Book Travel Agent About the Author Aaron Qualio is a husband and stay-at-home father to his two girls. He currently resides in Green Bay, Wisconsin, and grew up in a small Wisconsin town.   I am giving away my review copy! The contest is open to anyone over 18 years old with a US or Canadian mailing address. Duplicate entries will be deleted. Void where prohibited. You do not have to be a follower to enter but I hope you will find something you like here and become a follower. Followers Will Receive 2 Bonus Entries For Each Way They Follow. Plus 2 Bonus Entries For Following My Facebook Fan Page. Add this book to your WANT TO READ shelf on GoodReads for 3 Bonus Entries. Pin this giveaway to Pinterest for 3 Bonus Entries. If you share the giveaway on Threads, X, or Facebook or anywhere you will receive 5 Bonus Entries For Each Link. The  Contest Will End on January 30, 2024, at 11:59 PM CST The Winner Will Be Chosen By Random.org The Winner Will Be Notified By Email and Will Be Posted Here In The Sidebar. Click Here For Entry Form Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Receiving a complimentary copy in no way reflected my review of this book. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.” Read the full article

[productsreviewings]

At this time's finest Specialised Turbo Como SL 4.0 offers (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)Specialised Turbo Como SL 4.0: SpecsBattery: 320WhMost Approximate Vary: 40 miles (examined estimate)Most Assisted Pace: 28 mphMotor: 240-watt, specialised SL 1.1, mid-drive motorGearing: 5 velocity, inside rear hubWheel Diameter: 27.5 inchesWeight: 47.4 lbsWorth as examined: $3,250Once you're driving a motorcycle, you don't need any surprises. By this measure, the Specialised Turbo Como SL 4.0 is a paragon of perfection It goes with out saying that it is boring. It is a well-balanced, well-behaved, easy-to-handle commuter ebike for weekday commutes or weekend journeys.Regardless of some cutting-edge know-how and design, the Specialised Turbo Como SL 4.0 eschews complexity. It makes use of an inside gear hub, for instance, so there isn't any want for shade-tree mechanic servicing, and as an alternative of a fiddly handlebar-mounted controller, it depends on a single button to pick energy and electrical help ranges on the bike. It is simplicity itself and it is competitively priced at $3,250. In case you are searching for one Greatest electrical bikeIt is well worth the splurge.Specialised Turbo Como SL Ebike Evaluate: Worth and AvailabilitySpecialised Turbo Como SL 4.0 Specialised Bike $2,399.99 within the US (opens in new tab)Together with a big selection of conventional bikes, Specialised has developed a strong line of ebikes below the Turbo moniker. The $3,250 Turbo Como SL 4.0 is among the entry-level fashions, spanning gravel and mountain ebikes in addition to tremendous gentle fashions.Should you're an off-road rider, there are Specialised Turbo Levo alloys for $5,800. Not solely does it embody all of the suspension you'd count on on a mountain bike, however there's additionally a giant 500Wh battery. For critical gravel runs and people on the lookout for the last word in agility, the Specialised S-Works Turbo Creo SL EVO has a carbon fiber body, weighs over 29 kilos, invisible electrical help and a $14,750 price ticket.Specialised Turbo Como SL eBike Evaluate: DesignThe Specialised Turbo Como SL 4.0 is a Class 3 eBike, that means it gives steady electrical pedal help at speeds as much as 28 mph. It does not have a throttle-only mode, but it surely does present clean energy because of a specialised mid-drive motor with a torque sensor and a Shimano Nexus 5-speed shifter. The bike makes use of a completely enclosed rear hub gearing system, which protects it from the weather and is hooked up to a traditional chain with a small chain guard to maintain your slacks clear.(Picture credit score: Tom's Information)Uncommon amongst ebikes on this class, the Turbo Como SL 4.0 doesn't have an LCD controller. A collection of blue LEDs on the downtube point out how a lot battery energy is left, and a three-stage LED set in a circle signifies the extent of energy help you've got chosen by pushing the only button on prime. If you wish to make finer changes and observe your rides, there is a Mission Management specialised smartphone app to try this.All cabling and electronics tucked neatly contained in the bike's aluminum body. Even the battery is hidden within the downtube of the bike. Which means that the Turbo Como SL 4.0 will deal with moist climate and not using a hitch, and it provides the bike a easy class that almost all ebikes do not have. Solely the VanMoof S3 has cleaner strains.(Picture credit score: Tom's Information)Longer, full-length fenders cowl extra wheels utilizing versatile extensions; They assist maintain workplace staff from getting soiled on their garments, and the basket mounted on the entrance body offers house for selecting up groceries on the way in which dwelling. The complete Specialised package deal has a really buttoned-down really feel; Even the charger and proprietor's manuals are available in a helpful onerous carrying case.(Picture credit score: Tom's Information)Nonetheless, the Turbo Como SL 4.

0 has a couple of minor design flaws. The included rear fender-mounted lights come on however do not flash whenever you apply the brakes. The entrance stem-mounted gentle may be very brilliant, however as a result of it is mounted on the top tube, it all the time factors straight forward, leaving you in the dead of night whenever you're turning. Most ebikes mount the entrance gentle in order that it rotates with the handlebars or entrance wheel. And there's a lack of an electrical horn; Specialties embody an inexpensive mechanical bell, which is never heard in busy site visitors.Specialised Turbo Como SL eBike Evaluate: EfficiencyWhereas not the lightest ebike we have examined, the Specialised Turbo Como SL 4.0's 47 kilos feels very gentle on the highway. It handles very simply, is balanced and steady even in tight turns. The general high quality of development and design makes the Turbo Como SL a standout amongst high-end commuter ebikes and rewards the rider with predictable dealing with in all circumstances.(Picture credit score: Tom's Information)The Specialised Turbo Como SL does not have shocks to deal with nation highway washboards, however the bike is strong, steady and silent on paved roads. In reality, it is one of many quietest ebikes we have examined. The one noise you will hear is whenever you're within the lowest gear for a hill climb, and even then, all you will discover is a slight high-pitched hum from the bike; In any other case, it is pleasantly muted. The 5-speed gearing is nice sufficient to deal with most hills with modest help. On steep climbs, you must put in additional effort, and the Como SL might use a couple of greater gears for downhill sprints.The Turbo Como SL has three ranges of pedal energy help—Eco, Sport, and Turbo mode—indicated by three blue LEDs. We're not ashamed to confess that whereas we experimented with all modes, we saved it in most energy help Turbo mode for many of our rides. (In any other case, what is the level of getting an ebike?) The Como comes with a comparatively small 240-watt motor, which isn't unusual for basic commuting however many city fashions now have 400- and even 750-watt motors.(Picture credit score: Tom's Information)If you wish to observe your travels, you are able to do so utilizing the free Mission Management specialised app. Along with monitoring the route and distance of your journey, the smartphone app enables you to run diagnostics on the bike and set one thing known as Sensible Help. This characteristic enables you to enter a vacation spot within the app after which tells you the way a lot battery energy you need to have left on the finish of your journey. The bike will then dynamically alter the quantity of electrical help so you do not run out of energy earlier than reaching your vacation spot.Specialised Turbo Como SL eBike overview: Battery life and varyTo watch battery ranges, a collection of blue horizontal LEDs on the downtube point out the battery stage, and whereas not as exact as a proportion quantity, we discovered it to be fairly correct about how a lot battery life shall be left. In case you are so , you possibly can observe it on the app.(Picture credit score: Tom's Information)Specialised does not record an official distance score for the usual 320Wh battery hidden within the Turbo Como SL 4.0's downtube. However over the weeks we examined it, we estimated a mean most distance of about 40 miles. Nonetheless, this could fluctuate drastically. We examined the bike in hilly terrain. Flatlanders can get appreciable distance between prices.Specialised Turbo Como SL eBike Evaluate: The CompetitorsIn comparison with like-minded straightforward riders, the Specialised Turbo Como SL sits in a candy spot between cheaper however much less refined commuters the place the Turbo Como SL 4.0 lacks the know-how and design and fashions that provide a couple of extra options and technical advantages however a considerably greater value.Take

into account a mannequin from one other main model, Trek Verve+2, which prices $2,850 much less however lacks a number of the options of the specialised Turbo Como SL. For instance, the Trek mannequin makes use of normal exterior gearing (as an alternative of a protected inside hub), and its battery is tucked into the downtube, making it look extra downmarket. It additionally does not apply electrical help as easily or persistently because the Specialised Turbo Como SL 4.0.On the different finish of the spectrum are dearer commuters Gazelle Final C380 HMB For $4,249. In comparison with the Specialised Turbo Como SL, an additional $1,000 for the Gazelle will get you a carbon belt drive (versus the extra maintenance-prone chain on the Specialised mannequin) and a shock-absorbing seat publish and entrance fork.Specialised Turbo Como SL eBike Evaluate: The Backside LineFor many who need to have their bike prepared each time they need to journey to the park or to the grocery retailer, the Specialised Turbo Como SL is a wonderful two-wheeled companion. It requires little upkeep, no messing round with sophisticated controllers (it does not have one), or mastering some complicated gearing setup. In reality, the Turbo Como SL could be the best ebike we have come throughout but.And it is the proper value. Cheaper commuter ebikes are rougher, much less protected against the weather and tougher to deal with. Dearer fashions—just like the Gazelle and Riese & Müller—supply extra options however price greater than $4,000. For metropolis dwellers on the lookout for consolation and carefree driving, the Specialised Turbo Como SL is a wonderful selection.Specialised Turbo Como SL 4.0: Worth Comparability (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)

[decorishing]

[gallery] Features one-hand simple mechanism that can quickly fold and unfold it in seconds, and takes up minimal space when folded. Premium Human-grade Suspension system with Comfort-Ride wheels, 360-degree Rotating Front wheels, and Rear Braking system. Extra-thickness Heavy-duty & Light-weight frame. Strong construction uses stainless steel tubes and aluminum alloys, so it is extremely durable! Our breathable mesh top cover. Made of high-density odorless and UV-reflective material. You can change the size of the internal compartment, so it can hold many pets in different size. There are a large-volume under-basket, three smaller accessory bags and a bottle holder, so there is enough storage space when you travel, shopping, or strolling, with your loved pets. [amz_corss_sell asin="B076M3L6KJ"] https://www.decorishing.com/product/hpz-pet-rover-premium-heavy-duty-dog-cat-pet-stroller-travel-carriage-with-convertible-compartment-zipperless-entry-reversible-handlebar-pump-free-rubber-tires-for-small-medium-large-pets/?feed_id=39001&_unique_id=628852d06b718

[seasonnose43]

The Means To Clean And Disinfect Schools To Help Gradual The Unfold Of Flu

Properly installed air-conditioning techniques take away moisture from the air by taking over heat air, cooling it and circulating the cool, dry air again into the room. In rooms that are not air-conditioned — particularly the basement — mechanical dehumidifiers are helpful. A humidistat could be connected to the unit to regulate the humidity. You cannot see radon, nevertheless it's not exhausting to search out out if you have a radon downside in your home. Testing is simple and should only take somewhat of your time. There are many kinds of inexpensive, do-it-yourself radon check kits you may get via the mail and in hardware shops and different shops. EPA recommends that consumers use test kits that are state-certified or have met the requirements of some national radon proficiency program. Different fashions include a spread of accessories, so take into consideration your cleaning needs, especially when it comes to exhausting flooring, upholstery and crevices. I always use wood shaving within the egg laying bins and pine based bedding on the floor. Hay isn’t recommended for the fungal an infection risk. Make any repairs to the structure prior to the final disinfection step. Seal any rodent entry holes on the inside and outside of the constructing. Apply a small amount of spray foam insulation into the hole, then pack in fine steel wool and prime with extra spray foam. Evidence of a link between atopy and home cleansing and hygiene is weak at best. A vary of ‘in-homes’ studies, as reviewed by Beumer et al. reveal that cleaning soap or detergent-based cleaning routines, as they're presently practised in the house, may have solely a restricted effect in reducing publicity to microbes. A latest examine confirmed that, the place surfaces contaminated with a faecal suspension infected with norovirus were cleaned using detergent resolution utilized with a fabric, the virus was not eliminated from the floor. Disinfectant Strong alkalis are sometimes diluted with fillers for ease and safety of dealing with. Sodium chloride or sodium sulfate are often fillers in powdered detergent formuations. Nonionic surfactants, which do not dissociate when dissolved in water, have the broadest vary of properties relying upon the ratio of hydrophilic/hydrophobic steadiness. For instance, the foaming properties of nonionic detergents is affected by temperature of solution. Organosilane compounds are comprised of a surfactant plus an antimicrobial substance such as a quaternary ammonium moiety. These compounds are designed to minimize bacterial contamination of surfaces by sustaining their antimicrobial exercise on surfaces for weeks or months. To date, the flexibility of these compounds to forestall contamination of surfaces for extended time durations is unclear. Further analysis of organosilane-type compounds utilizing a variety of utility methods seems warranted. Polyhexamethylene biguanide disinfectant was discovered to minimize back bacterial ranges on surfaces for a minimal of 24 h after application in a single examine . In reality, our upper-air UV-C airborne disinfection take a look at confirmed that 99.99% of the SARS-CoV-2 virus was inactivated in simply 10 minutes1 - the equivalent of 50 ACH. You can in all probability lay off all of the antibacterial soaps and cleansers. They are asking antibacterial soap makers to prove that the merchandise are more effective than regular soap. Hand sanitizers containing an alcohol can also dissolve the lipid levels of the pores and skin and its lipid-dissolving effect is incompatible with the concentration of alcohol. Therefore, damaging lipid limitations and ultimately it causes hand eczema . The review article finds that hand sanitizers are extraordinarily efficient in struggle the virus but together with it, it brings alongside arrange of dangers that are outlined within the article. The main way that contamination spreads in the kitchen is by our arms. Too often, individuals don't wash their hands earlier than making food. And individuals usually do not wash their arms between handling possibly contaminated meals such as meat and different foods which are much less likely to be contaminated, similar to greens. Pure Carpet Cleaner Used by professionals as a end result of quick results after first utility. Extract Attack will not change the pure shade of your carpets and upholstery. We have several products that meet the strict requirements of the Chem-Dry Certified program, which study a product’s impact on folks, pets and the surroundings. It passed the high standards from the Green Guard Environmental Institute, Green Seal and TerraChoice to earn a green certification. So, whereas the name sounds removed from eco-friendly, you possibly can that the cleanliness and well being of your loved ones and our environment take top precedence. At Chem-Dry of Northern Maryland, we believe in sustainability and have labored toward providing a Green answer to carpet cleaning for the previous two decades. We use plant-based, natural, and one hundred pc biodegradable, green carpet cleaning products which are safe for carpets of all types, your loved ones, and the environment. Our highly efficient hot-water extraction truck-mounted cleaning system eliminates all of the visible and invisible pollutants hiding in your carpet. We know you care about your family’s well being, but you also want an effective cleaner that leaves your carpets looking bright and clear. It eliminates tough stains, brightens up high-traffic areas and eliminates disagreeable odors. Make certain you use KIWI carpet cleansing providers to get contemporary carpets without the dangerous chemical substances. Along the way, it also relaxes carpet fibers to assist them regain their loft and kills tiny pests like dust mites using the high-temperature steam. Administer the steam by utilizing a towel attached to a big flooring brush, which you cross over the carpet in two instructions, just like vacuuming. These are a variety of the best—and easiest, by means of components used—non-toxic options for cleansing your carpet naturally. Whether you've got obtained youngsters or pets operating around or are just tracking dirt from your personal shoes into your own home, rugs and carpets can lure all types of particles that you simply'd quite not breathe in. ECO Interior Maintenance is a member of United States Green Building Council Maryland Chapter. Deep Spring Cleaning Of course, this is the first thing to do when cleaning, because the dust does fall onto everything lower within the room. The days get longer, the climate finally starts to heat up, and flowers begin popping up around the neighborhood. But first, you will wish to make sure your own home is in tip-top form. You can choose up dust, cobwebs and filth safely, without having to step on a ladder. Obviously, you don’t need to use the pillowcase you sleep on each night, however using a pillowcase to scrub your ceiling fans is a hack that you want to attempt ASAP. “The pillowcase holds the mud so it doesn’t fall on a table or bed,” says Reichert. “A very clean way to mud a fan.” Learn the the cleaning hack you would like you knew earlier to keep pillowcases smelling recent. Some folks wait until their main spring cleaning push to clean out old garments and sneakers from their closets and drawers. At the top of each season, you may be conversant in the objects that you didn't contact for the earlier couple of months. Vacuuming the pinnacle every time it seems to be dirty is a simple to way to keep this tool clean. Sweeping your hardwood floor is the most common cleaning step that it requires. You can easily buff out these smudges by rubbing a clear tennis ball or an old sock over the realm. For cussed 清潔公司 , apply a small quantity of moist baking soda to the world. How Cleanliness Impacts Your Workplace For example, if you see a spill, determine what substance has been spilled so as to clean it safely and effectively. If the area is busy, it is probably not secure to wash it at that specific time, so you may opt to place a join warning others to be cautious, for example, a “floor slippery when wet” sign. However, sustaining good requirements of cleanliness means implementing good habits and policies in your facility to make certain that your cleaning routine is effective. Here are some of our prime tips for creating good cleansing habits in facilities. Also, know the staffing suppliers that AGS companions with are equally committed to worker and workplace security. It additionally gives you a background and context that can allow you to when a severe conversation is needed. In addition to break instances, staff can sign off of their system to clean their palms whenever they choose, with out worrying about impact on their efficiency targets. A Princeton University study found litter makes it tougher for folks to concentrate on particular tasks. Specifically, the researchers discovered that the visible cortex is easily overwhelmed by task-irrelevant objects, making it troublesome to allocate attention and complete set duties effectively. Cleanliness and organization additionally make it easier to search out and maintain track of paperwork, files and other valuable objects which might be integral to effectively performing work activities. Experts suggest that you simply work on educating your staff on the significance of sustaining a clean and hygienic office space. An unclean work surroundings is a wonderful breeding floor for numerous germs and allergens, which only emphasizes the need to keep it clear always. Most employees think about their workplaces as a second residence and as such, you need to focus your efforts on preserving it clean and tidy. By maintaining the work surroundings well-maintained, you’re allowing your staff to be productive, efficient, and more importantly, pleased. An HSA requires enrollment in an HDHP and allows the rollover of funds from year-to-year — therefore, there is not any threat of dropping unused money. With an HCFSA, enrollees could be in any kind of FEHB plan, including an HDHP, or no FEHB insurance plan. However, an HSA eliminates eligibility for a “general purpose” HCFSA, as a end result of each accounts are used to pay for a similar sort of expenses. Enrollees in an HDHP with an HSA are eligible for a LEX HCFSA as a outcome of the LEX HCFSA pays for eligible dental and vision expenses only. Full Service Drape And Curtain Cleaning, Sarasota Fl Note- Don't use an excessive amount of detergent otherwise it could produce plenty of foam which might be difficult to scrub. If you have a lot of money, it's fine to purchase dearer pads. Always be happy to look for offers and happy to get cheap pads. There are some individuals who would somewhat spend a couple of dollars than purchase expensive pads. In some instances, you could need to attach a particular software that is specifically made for material. As you clean, it is all the time finest to work from prime to bottom. Note that certain steamers are not to be used on upholstery or curtains. Some material materials can also be sensitive to the excessive warmth. Draperies are sometimes ignored or forgotten as part of an everyday cleansing routine. However, drapery cleansing is essential to hold up a wholesome & beautiful residence or office inside. Depending on your curtain’s material, you could have to clean them more usually. Pet hair, dust, dust, and different small particles can simply gather on your curtains. However, a quick swipe of a lint roller as soon as per week and a lightweight dusting during your family cleansing routine can hold your curtains in check. The Truth About 'green' Cleansing Merchandise Use for elimination of water deposit stains on bathe stall panels, toilet chrome fixtures, home windows, bathroom mirrors, and so forth. In addition to the above results, many frequent cleansing products will burn or irritate pores and skin and eyes, and many are fatal if swallowed. Thankfully, none of those ingredients are needed for cleaning your own home. It’s easy to make your personal secure cleaning products utilizing the formulation listed beneath. Found in spot removers, house dry cleaning merchandise, and upholstery cleaners, PERC is a probable carcinogen and neurotoxin. Look for cleaning product manufacturers that present care for their staff, clients, and communities. Their CSR efforts may help reveal commitment to folks and the planet . For instance, some manufacturers provide meals, training, or on-site healthcare to staff. Others decide to ambitious environmental goals, whether or not it's reducing waste, air air pollution, carbon emissions, or all of the above. All cleansing products are ordered centrally through Facilities & Engineering or Housing & Dining (H&D). David McDonald, the H&D Senior Business Director, created an inventory of cleaning and janitorial products which are Green Seal approved or equal, and all departments are required to make purchases off of this listing. This Seventh Generation all-purpose cleaner works on most surfaces to chop grime, grease, and filth. Chlorine - Typically found in rest room cleaner, mold and mildew remover, and laundry whiteners. You can be uncovered to chlorine via inhaling fumes but in addition by way of the pores and skin when cleansing. Ammonia - Typically present in sprucing agents and glass cleaners as it evaporates quickly and doesn’t depart streaks, however, it’s a really powerful irritant. It can set off asthma assaults and causes issues in individuals with other repository points. The common ingredient identified merely as “fragrance” could include hundreds of different chemical compounds, including phthalates, an endocrine disruptor. The world digital infrastructure authority is releasing an advisory collection as a practical resource for homeowners and operators to determine an efficient sustainability strategy of their services. Focused on the event of actual property data requirements, a quantity one objective for OSCRE this yr is to assist CRE organizations advance and assess progress on ESG initiatives. Hood And Enclosure Design Although explosion proof dust collectors are designed to suppress explosions, each kind is manufactured to meet the necessities of different types of mud and have to be selected according to their criteria. It is important to know that every one organic mud is explosive and requires an explosion proof dust collector. Though filtration methods are a popular form of dust collection, there are techniques that don't use filters. In some elements of the United States, the peak cooling demand for southern exposures could happen within the fall, whereas northern exposures could require heating at the identical time. The interior zones are not affected by the weather except for the roof, and subsequently the interior zones can be separate. Dedicated exhaust just isn't required, however the system cannot join with any area that accommodates flammable materials. Types of scrubbers include gravity spray towers, cyclone spray chambers, impingement scrubbers, packed bed scrubbers, and venturi scrubbers. As the requirements for clean air have turn into more rigid, producers of mud assortment methods have risen to the demand and produced air purification devices that meet and exceed authorities requirements. The dust filter is the air cleansing portion of the dust assortment system. In essence, the blower pulls the air from the placement into the filter that removes the particulates from the air. The air to fabric ratio is the quantity of air that passes via a sq. foot of the filter. The lower the ratio, the upper quality of the filtration system's efficiency. Tarpaulins had been generally used solely to guard neighboring houses and cars from a damaging blast of abrasive dust or to scale back residents' complaints about over spray, dust, and filth. Now that the well being results are clearly recognized, it's much more essential to make certain that lead-containing debris does not contaminate the surrounding space. Regulations now require the erection of containment constructions for open abrasive blasting operations. The performance of vapor compression refrigeration cycles is restricted by thermodynamics. These air con and heat pump devices move warmth rather than convert it from one kind to a different, so thermal efficiencies don't appropriately describe the efficiency of those gadgets.

[automaticneon]

Hunting Season

Helmut Zemo X Fem!Reader

Summary: Going into hiding isn’t easy, and you and Zemo have to find new ways to entertain yourselves. Your Baron wants to introduce you to something a little different today.

Warnings: Very not safe for tumblr lmao. BratTamer!Zemo comes out in full force, inappropriate use of a riding crop, impact play, Zemo in leather gloves (that deserves its own warning in my opinion), oral (fem receiving) but with ✨added spice✨

When your new partner Zemo had said that you were going to have to lay low for a while, there was evidently an error in communication.

You see in your world flying under the radar meant months travelling between safehouses and run-down apartments, living out of your rucksack and calculating how long you could make your rations last before you had to emerge to restock. 

In Zemo’s world that meant something entirely different.

After his escape in Riga the two of you had rendezvoused and begun the long drive to Austria, hesitant to take the jet out of fear the Dora Milaje would be keeping tabs on it. After two days of driving and an overnight stop in Poland the two of you had finally arrived at the location Helmut had deemed sensible for your hiding place. 

A sprawling country manor somewhere between Vienna and Graz. 

“I inherited it from my mothers side,” he told you when you first entered the light airy entry hallway, as if it was a common occurrence that someone would inherit such a place.

It was times like these that you were reminded that you and Helmut were not cut from the same cloth, he was a literal Baron and you were only an agent of S.H.E.I.L.D. 

Had been. You had been an agent of S.H.E.I.L.D. You were now technically a fugitive of the law, wanted for aiding and abetting the escape of your criminal boyfriend.

It took a lot of time to adjust to your new life in the manor, but Zemo was ever so patient with you. He never berated you for getting lost in the long hallways, was always patient when you asked about the difference between a Baron and an Earl, and humoured you when you quizzed him about the events frequented by aristocracy. 

Eventually you began to feel at home. You and Helmut fell into a happy routine of exploring the house and grounds and enjoying each others company. 

Of course these activities were all interspersed with a healthy dose of fucking. Frantic, groping sex hiding behind marble statues in the sculpture gallery, giving fashion shows to Zemo in all the new clothes he bought you just so he could tear them off you again, kneeling between his thighs in the parlour whilst he enjoyed his evening whisky. 

The two of you couldn’t get enough of each other.

“I should take you to see the stables tomorrow” he muses one night, trailing the tips of his fingers over your exposed back  “I want you to meet the horses before I take you out one”

“You should know then that I can’t ride to save my life” you warn.

An amused smile spreads across Zemo’s tired face.

“I beg to differ” he quips roguishly, breaking out into a smug laugh when you slap his chest in admonishment, 

“Don’t be crude, I’m being serious!”

“And so am I, you broke me tonight my love. You can be a cruel mistress when you want to be” he says, pressing a tender kiss on the top of your head.

“I learnt from the best” you say, and return the kiss with a brief peck against his chest.

“And I’m sure you’ll learn a lot more”

-

The sun over the grounds the next morning was bright and crisp, dispelling the mist from the lake and leaving behind a pleasant climate for your walk.

“You look lovely,” Zemo says as you meet him in the entry hall. He’s fixing the lapels of his long brown overcoat in one of the ornate mirrors and his warm eyes find the reflection of yours as you approach from behind. He picks up his trusty pair of worn leather gloves and slides them on, flexing his fingers to soften the material.

Ever the gentleman he offers you the crook of his arm.

“Shall we?”

-

The two of you make pleasant conversation as Zemo leads you through the grounds of the estate. Today he’s full of promises about the future, it warms you to know he intends to make this last.

“I should take you into Vienna soon, I know a place where they perform Mozart by candlelight”

“Have you been to any races before? We could visit Monaco, or perhaps somewhere in Spain would be less conspicuous”

“I promise we won’t always have to hide like this”

The stable was an old building, as old as the house, but impeccably well maintained. The stalls, of which many were empty, were arranged around a courtyard and as you wondered around the perimeter Zemo pointed to the various amenities.

“Back when we still hosted the hunting season this place would have been filled with horses. My mothers side of the family took great pride in their collection” he said as you stopped to pet the nose of a great black horse.

“You hunt?” 

“Not personally, my parents were fans of the tradition of it all”  he says, his gloves creaking as he flexes his fingers “I joined the army very young. I suppose when you start killing out of necessity, killing for sport becomes somewhat repugnant.” 

You knew very little about Zemo’s time in the army. From what you could gather it had been a particulalry unpleasant time in his life, one born from a sense of duty to his country and a need to establish his place in the world before he took up the mantle of Baron. 

Helmut’s aversion to hunting didn’t seem to impact his care towards the horses, he told you each of their names and ages and you admired how healthy and shiny their coats looked. 

As you walked he kept a hand on the back of your neck, a possessive little gesture that he had taken to recently. The warm leather of his gloves a relaxing presence as he lead you through the tack room, a clean and chalky white room with a high vaulted ceiling. Your footsteps echoed on the stone floors as you admired the expensive riding gear mounted on the wall, stopping at a collection of leather riding crops.

“Oh Baron,” you teased, plucking one from the wall “very kinky” 

Helmut gave you a lazy smile as you reached out and tapped the flat end of the crop against his cheek, huffing out a little laugh before taking it from you. 

“Careful there my love, you could do real damage with that.”

You laugh and move to perch on the sturdy wooden worktable in the centre of the room.

“As if I’d ever want to hurt your pretty face, Helmut” 

“I’m flattered, but it’s hardly a matter of if you’d want to,” he says, fixated on tapping the crop in his open palm “you need good training to use these properly.”

You narrow your eyes. You’re fairly sure that he’s sizing you up right now, trying to figure out if you’re down for whatever it is he has planned. 

You decide to bite the bait.

“Do you think you’re well trained, Baron?” 

For a fraction of a second he doesn’t respond, keeping you trapped in his levelled gaze instead. His nostrils flare and he puffs his chest ever so slightly.

“Get up,” he says in a tone that verges on cold. 

You obey, but the sparkle of a challenge still glints in the deep of your eyes. If Zemo notices he doesn’t make it known, simply clenching his jaw as you come to stand before him.

“Turn around and put your hands on the table,” he instructs, and you can feel his gaze on you as you comply. 

“We’re going to try something new today. You can always say no if you want to,” he says, placing his hand between your shoulder blades and pushing, bending you slightly over the table.

Experimenting wasn’t anything new with you and Zemo, over the last few months the two of you had tried just about everything that took your fancy in the bedroom. You were fairly sure you knew what he had planned, particularly from the way he was using the riding crop to tease the inside of your leg, but you still wanted him to say it out loud.

“What do you have planned?” you ask, and your voice gives out just a little when Helmut uses the crop to make the tiniest slap against your leg.

“Five hits. If you can take five hits I’ll give you something special in return” he says, lifting the hem of your floaty skirt with the crop until it rests on the small of your back and leaves you exposed to him.

You know he’d give you something in return no matter what happened. If you noped-out after one swat? No problem. You had complete faith in this man to make sure you stayed happy and satisfied and so you arch your back a little in anticipation. 

Helmut smooths his gloved hand over the globe of your ass, lulling you into a soothed state before stepping back. You don’t look back at him; the silence and the tantalizing suspense only adding to the excitement growing between your legs.

You register the sound of the hit before you register the pain.

The soft whoosh and harsh crack echoes around the high ceilings and bounces off the white-washed walls. It’s not a strong hit, barely even a swat. Zemo had used more force with regular spanks before yet the harsh bite of the leather crop still startles you.

“Alright?” He asks, and finally you turn your head to face him.

A rogue strand of hair dangles over his forehead and his pupils have blown to swallow up his hazel eyes. Helmut looked as though he was holding onto his sanity by a thread, and that was a thread you wanted to break. 

You nod, not trusting your voice to remain levelled and instead turn to face forward again to await the second hit. 

The next swat was just the same as the first, but with the now tender condition of your skin it hurt slightly more. The third was ever so slightly harder, forcing a yelp out of you and making your nails dig into the wooden table. 

Zemo puts down the crop for a moment, coming to stand behind you and hovering his hand over the welts you’re sure are forming on your ass. You peer over your shoulder at him, watching the way his breath comes in quick pants as he examines his handiwork.

His eyes flit up to briefly meet yours before using his teeth to pull off one of his leather gloves and he tentatively brings his fingers between your legs, careful not to touch the tender flesh of your rear. His fingertips gently run along the clothed seam of your pussy, feeling the way your arousal is soaking your underwear.

“You’re enjoying this, aren’t you?” he quizzes as you tremble under his touch. His fingers find your clit through the fabric and begin to circle it, letting out a low chuckle the way you moan and slouch at the contact. 

“God your wet,” he berates, and that momentarily sated spark reignites at his tone. 

“I’d be a lot wetter if you actually put your back into it” you quip, and Helmut’s fingers still. You keep pushing.

 “I assumed you were trained well with these. I guess I was wrong” 

Your Baron doesn’t respond, and you can practically hear the last strands of his self restraint snapping. 

Grabbing his discarded glove, Zemo presses himself against you fully, using his weight to pin you down against the table. The expensive material of his trousers rub against the sore skin of your ass, and you can feel his arousal pressed into you as he uses one hand to grasp your jaw.

“You’re going to regret that, мали зека” he warns against your ear, tightening his grip to force your mouth open and stuff it with his leather glove. 

Zemo steps back, pulling his other glove off and pressing it into your palm.

“You drop that glove and this all stops. If you don’t, then I don’t want to hear anything else from that smart mouth” he says, picking up the crop and taking his place again. 

You love it when he gets like this. When you’ve broken down that cool and collected exterior you know that both you and your pussy will be paying for it for days to come. Not that you have a single complaint about that, though.

The next hit catches you entirely off guard. It’s much harder, causing your skin to warm instantly and your body to jolt against the table. Helmut waits, probably to see if you drop the glove.

When you don’t he delivers the final hit, so harsh that the tears pooling in your eyes spill over, trailing down your cheeks and mixing with the drool that has begun to dribble from the corner of your gagged mouth. 

You don’t realise that your face had pressed itself against the table-top until Helmut is pulling you back up. He pulls the glove from your mouth, using one had to smooth your hair away from your face in a soothing gesture. 

“It’s over,” He says, pressing his lips to yours in a frenzied kiss “you did so well.”

He shrugs off his coat, placing the material on the table and guiding your head back down, giving you a soft place to rest your head.

“Do you want your reward?” he asks, stepping back behind you again.

“Uh-huh” you nod against the soft coat, all of the fight had been drained from your body, evidently the ability to speak had gone with it too.

You feel as Helmut slowly pulls your underwear over the curve of your ass and down your legs, shushing you softly when you whine over the soreness of your skin. He nudges your feet apart, and you feel him kneeling down behind you. 

His hands find purchase around your waist, and he presses a kiss to the skin of your ass, being careful to find a place that doesn’t have any welts. His breath fans across your skin as he moves to press a kiss directly on your pussy, pulling away to listen to your breathy sigh. After the pain, soft and pure pleasure felt so good. 

Helmut buries himself into the warm wetness, feasting on your pussy whilst you moan into his coat. His signature smell clings to the fabric and fills your nose, fisting your hands into the silky lining you pull the coat closer to you.

It’s almost embarrassing how quickly he manages to make you cum like this. All he has to do is bring one of his fingers to circle your fluttering, soaked hole and he has you falling apart on his tongue. 

He holds you up as you practically sob into his coat, pressing fleeting kisses against your swollen pussy until your aftershocks stop. Helmut raises to his feet, gently pulling up your underwear and fixing your skirt, trailing kisses up your back until he reaches your head.

“How was that?” he asks, his voice quiet and tender.

“Good,” you push yourself up from the table shakily, letting Helmut keep his hands on your arms to keep you upright “you’re waiting on me hand and foot for the rest of the week though” 

Helmut laughs, picking up his jacket and draping it over your shoulders.

“Of course,” he says, pulling you in for a tender kiss “your wish is my command”

You kiss him back, smiling into the embrace as a few ideas for revenge spring to mind.

[liloelsagranger]

Night shift - finally a new Rocketshipping-fanfiction

My dear friends,

it’s been a while since I last posted an entry. Let me tell you why and what, besides Covid-19, made me pause from publishing fanfictions over the last couple of months. Of course, Switzerland was very affected by the pandemic and still is today. We had numerous lock-downs or as Swiss people call it “slow downs”. My mother got very sick last year, I almost lost her. The doctors said she would only live two or three more days, but my mom is a fighter. She had to stay at the hospital for months, she endured countless medical examinations, had to take meds and slowly learned to live again. I’m so proud of my mother that she was strong and determined to get better. When she turned back home, I started to take care of her and I hate to leave her on her own, even if we’re talking about half an hour or less. Right now, she’s doing quite good, actually, we’re on vacation and she makes a great effort to participate in life in Italy. She’s my role-model! She will never be the same as before, but she won’t give up, she wakes up every morning to make progress. I prayed for her and her well-being, I prayed every single night she might get another chance and now we’re here at the beach and dining in fancy restaurants. It’s been a horrible year for everyone, a year full of sorrow, tears and desperation, a year where I was constantly afraid, the hospital would call me with some bad news, but she did it! She survived and she fights for her life! So proud! Good news is: I passed my doctoral exams and I’m officially allowed to call myself Dr. phil. des. Melanie C. but that won’t ever stop me from loving Team Rocket so here it is - a brand new Rocketshipping-fanfiction for you guys. LOVE YOU! Night shift

Chapter 1:

It was past ten o’clock when that miserable looking guy entered the diner. He inconspicuously sat down in the farthest corner of the café and immediately hid his face behind the menu card. Nevertheless, Jessie the waitress could make out the pathetic expression on his face, how he was cowering like a whipped dog. She had seen quite a bit in this diner. Drunks, thugs, addicts and other needy people who asked for a sympathetic ear, compassion and understanding, but that guy was different. He suffered terribly, but did not dare to communicate, instead he hid from the world so as not to attract attention and quietly endure his fate. Jessie had to do something about it. Of course, she didn’t want to play the Good Samaritan. She knew the tricks of the men who entered this diner. Most of the time, they told the waitress tall tales, hoping to be comforted, whatever they meant by that. But this young man did not make a shady impressionHe was well dressed, looked well-groomed, and Jessie was especially struck by his bright emerald green eyes, the only thing in his face that had not yet been veiled by grief and sorrow. She decided to do something about his displeasure.

“Did you have a rough day?” she asked while disinfecting the table.

He looked briefly into her eyes and nodded. “That’s one way to put it,” he answered, the gaze immediately lowered again.

This would be a taciturn conversation, but Jessie didn’t give up easily, she was a natural at making even rocks talk.

“Listen! No matter what happened, I’ve seen or heard some things. If I can help you in any way, my name is Jessie and I’m in charge of this table today. Let me just get the gum out from under your seat and get you a cold drink. What would you like?” She pulled a spatula from her apron and rubbed away the remains of the spoiled brats that marred her diner.

‘Wow,’ the young man thought to himself. ‘A strong, self-confident woman who lends a hand herself and who’s not above cleaning up dirt.’ Their eyes met briefly, and he forced a wry smile.

“You know, kid. You can’t rely on anyone. If you want to get everything done, do it yourself and don’t trust anyone. This world doesn’t give you anything for granted!” She briefly wiped the back of his chair before disappearing behind the counter and pouring the young man an ice-cold Coke.

“I have rarely seen you so concerned about a customer. Normally you show yourself aloof and only take the order, so as not to get involved in embarrassing conversations. Must be a really great pike, this pathetic creature in the far corner. Could it be that you’ve got a tiny crush on this guy?” For Eddy, teasing his best friend was the greatest pleasure. He didn’t know her like that. Jessie usually resisted any kind of small talk. This was due to her dark past, when she had repeatedly fallen for advances from men who were never looking for a steady relationship, but for a quick fix. Eddy had witnessed this bad time of his friend, how her heart was broken, how she was badly played with, and how she was simply dropped like a hot potato. Jack was the worst example of them all. While Jessie was already hearing the wedding bells ringing, he was making love to the women of the Strip and deceiving Jessie night after night with other broads. Jessie was devastated when she found out Jack was cheating on her. She was furious, not even at her lying boyfriend, but at herself for having been so stupid as to trust a man.

Jessie gave Eddy a light pat on the head. “Don’t be silly! That time is over. I can take care of myself, I don’t need male support for that. I’m a big girl, I make my own dough, and I keep my head above water pretty well. No, not a chance, I’ve sworn off flirting.” Nevertheless, she caught herself as her gaze wandered to the young man in the corner. “Oh yes, this time is definitely over,” Eddy smirked.

“Jessie, could you bring us a side of fries, please?” Misty’s order echoed throughout the hall. The twenty-year old waved her hands. She was used to speaking loudly, almost shouting, to attract guests to her daily water Pokémon show. Sometimes she walked up and down the streets of the Strip all day in the blazing hot sun, trying to win people for her underwater attraction. As an excellent student, she could have taught at any college, but she had decided early on to get into show business and make her living doing what she really loved, joined by Dewgong and Starmie. Her parents had not agreed with this decision at all, it was wasted talent, they had claimed, and had summarily turned Misty out the door. Since then, she had been struggling through life on her own, but could always count on Jess, the diner and her two best friends, Ash and Brock, young people who were also not favoured by fate.

“Temper your voice, twerp!” Jessie couldn’t help but grin. She spread the ketchup bottles around the table, hoping Ash wouldn’t spill on himself and the diner again. His constant companion Pikachu immediately hopped on his shoulder, grabbed a fry and popped it in his mouth. Ash and his Pokémon were carnies. He had trained his friend well and attracted many spectators with his performance. Most of them felt sorry for the guy and tipped generously. That’s why Ash was able to invite his friends to the diner every night, a place that gave them hope where they could experience security. They were convinced that nothing would ever disturb this idyll and that fate, for better or worse, had taken its course.

“Who’s that guy over there?” Brock wanted to know. He had barely sold chocolate and roses tonight. The others held back, but they were certain that their friend was just too pushy with women and that’s why he only collected rejections instead of green bills.

“I’ve never seen him here before. Must be from another area. I can’t tell you for the life of me why he’s wearing a suit at theses temperatures, he looks pretty pathetic to me anyways,” Jessie replied.

“Maybe his car has stalled,” Ash suggested, “and now he was forced to wander through the desert until the tasty aromas from your diner brought him back from his delirium.”

“Or,” Brock interfered, “he had to flee his own wedding because his wife is a real pain in the ass, unlike our sweet Misty,” Brock oohed at his friend. “Forget it, Brock! You and me, this will never happen!” She gave him a gentle poke.

“Enough now with your naïve speculations! Just let him enjoy his drink. We’re closing soon, so get going,” Jessie dismissed their absurd ideas with a wave of her hand, but at this point no one knew how right Brock was.

Dark thoughts hunted the young man. He knew what he would face at home if he was late. Beatings, torture, rebuke, harassment, were just a few words to describe his failed relationship. Unconsciously, he stroked his scarred arms.

“Can I get you something to eat?” Jessie pulled him out of the maelstrom of bad thoughts, of course she had noticed the wounds, but maybe he had gotten those injuries at work. The young man rummaged some coins out of his pants and let them jingle on the table. “Is that enough for a cheese sandwich?” Jessie hated small change, but she would make an exception for him. A friendly smile, a quick nod, and she passed on the order.

“Something’s wrong with this guy,” she whispered to Eddy. “He’s scarred, bruised and pays with penny coins. Possibly a vagrant.” Eddy couldn’t help but grin. “That guy’s been keeping you busy all night, Jess. What’s the matter with you? Are you getting weak?”

The young man could not overhear the conversation between the waiters, but he was sure they were talking about him. He sure made a rather frightening impression, but that was a private matter and not something you shared with a waitress in a diner.

His gaze drifted to the daily paper, which had two faces emblazoned on it: Butch and Cassidy. He had never heard of this odd couple, but according to the news, theses two were causing quite a stir and were terrifying the Strip.

“Oh, so you’ve already spotted them, those two knuckleheads! They keep the Strip in suspense, and heads roll when the taxes don’t add up,” Jessie served him the cheese sandwich and gave him a slight smile.

“Can I get you anything else?” He thanked her and took a hearty bite of his dinner.

The last half hour flew by and the remaining guests left the diner to spend the night on the Strip, as very few had a roof over their heads. Jessie set about cleaning up and Eddy checked the register.

The young man stood up and made his way towards the door. But before he left the diner, he glanced back at Jessie for a moment. A sigh escaped him. What if…?

Jessie returned his gaze and watched him go until the young man disappeared. She walked right up to his table and found a little note on the receipt.

“Thanks for treating me like a human being, James.” 

[wickfursfanfics]

DCMKEmogust 2021 - 14/08

Inspiration:

My entry for DCMKEmogust 2021 - Saturday 14/08 It’s a bit late, but finally here! xD

My prompt Inspirations for this one:

Word 1 - Tail

Dialog 2 - "We have been dating for two months and you only tell me this now?"

Intended Genre: Suspense with humor

Rating: General 

Starring: Kaito and Shinichi

<<<><><><><>>>

Kaito has a strong monkey tail that he might have forgotten to mention to Shinichi...

The first time Shinichi saw it, they were about to fall to their deaths. They were out hiking around a steep canyon when the ground suddenly gave out from under Kaito. Shinichi reacted quickly and grabbed onto him. Unfortunately he forgot the extra weight their backpacks provided and he fell with him.

It happened so suddenly they barely had any time to think. They were grabbing and scrambling to find something, anything that would hold their weight. Lest they fall into the ravine far below. 

Kaito managed to snag a branch of a tree and had only a second to grab at Shinichi before he fell further. He desperately pulled at his arm to try and get them both to safety on a thicker branch. But it was too hard to use one hand to hold himself and the other to hold Shinichi.

Shinichi for his part was struggling to release his pack one-handed, but he couldn't get the damn buckle open. He felt how Kaito was straining to hold them up, slipping slightly and then readjusting his grip constantly. They wouldn't last much longer. If only he could get that buckle open.

He glances down and sees a protruding rock. If he angled himself right as he fell he might make it. It was a bit risky but at this rate they both would fall.

"I see a small cliff further down, I might be able to get to it if I let-

"You are not letting go of my hand!" Kaito snarls around a few strained pants, cutting him off. He nearly slips as he tries to lift them up by his one arm.

"Shit!" He curses, breaths are ragged.

"At this rate we will both fall, don't you think it would be better to risk it?" He says strained. If he had to die alone to let Kaito live he would do it.

"Oh no, don't give me that Bullshit love. Don't argue with me right now!" He spits out through gritted teeth as Shinichi tries to argue further.

"Let me try something" he says mysteriously.

Kaito takes in a deep breath and lets it out slowly, Shinichi can almost hear him Focusing.

Suddenly he feels how Kaito strains upward and angles his body closer, something slithers around his middle. He couldn't see it but he could feel the tight pressure of something. Kaito looks down at him with a bit of a strained smile that had nothing to do with him holding up two people and two travel packs.

He tightened his grip on his hand and then slackened it just a little, making his intentions known. 

"Do you trust me?" He asks, all serious like Shinichi would do anything else.

Shinichi didn't know what he was up to, but he took in a deep breath and let it out slowly to prepare himself.

"I trust you"

He lets go of his hand. Shinichi feels the sickening feeling of dropping. But only for a second before that pressure tightened and held him up. He hears Kaito curse and grit his teeth as he reaches for the branch with his other hand. He couldn't for the life of him understand what he was holding him up with. But it was working.

Kaito heaved them both up the branch. He got his legs around it to give him purchase and when he felt stable enough he reached down to grab Shinichi. Pulling him upp on the branch so he could get him to safety. Shinichi sighed in relief as he finally settled on the branch in front of Kaito. The pressure on his middle slithered away as Kaito let out a sigh of relief himself.

After a minute of shaking off the feeling of dread he finally managed to ask the question that had plagued his curiosity.

"What did you do? I couldn't see anything holding me up?" He looks around Kaito to emphasise that there really was nothing.

Kaito chuckles awkwardly and shifts on the branch.

"It's nothing to concern yourself about love"

Shinichi frowns "Of course I want to know, you know I love a good mystery, and this was no trick."

Kaito takes his hand in his with a smile. "Just don't freak out" 

Shinichi blinks in confusion "freak out?"

Kaito sighs, adopting a focused look and suddenly a strange furry appendage appears behind him, twitching in nervousness.

"...What is that?"  He can't help but ask.

Kaito smiles "...This, is my Monkey tail"

"Your… monkey tail? You have a monkey tail?!"

"Yes..."

"We have been dating for the last 2 months and known each other for longer than that and you only tell me this now??"

"It's not really something you tell people you know"

"But you know me"

"Yes, and I know you well enough to know you wouldn't have believe me"

"I would-" he stops "No wait… I wouldn't"

Kaito chuckles at his admittance and wills the tail to disappear from sight. How fascinating.

“Now then, what do you say? Should we find a way back up this cliff before someone sends out a search party for us?” he says and starts finding a way up from where they were.

Shinichi winces, he would rather not have the whole police force searching from them. He knows they care, but it quickly becomes mayhem when they go on the hunt for them. Since they always assume the worst when they disappear. But with their track record it couldn’t be helped.

They made the slow and careful climb up the cliff and made it home before it got  too dark. Unfortunately, Their friends had already begone to form a search party by the time they came back. Go figure.

END

Until next time

//Wick 0v0

[conradoneil]

Among all of the colorways to drop was the original colorway that was released for the first time since 2007.

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[sky-squido]

Turn Back Time (A Linked Universe Fanfic)

Part one of the Time’s Travels series

GUYS I WROTE A FIC! This is the first fic i’ve ever put anywhere! Wooooo! 

WE GOTS SOME SWEET SWEET TIME ANGST. Lotsa mentions of death and dying, though, so if that’s not your cup of tea, then don’t read this fic. Get cho’ tissues, pals, cuz this is gonna hurt. There is Certified Fluff™, but you gotta work for it. Inspired by this fic I read: https://dinfeanoriel.tumblr.com/post/189094362202/dusk-falls

The group had noticed Time growing more and more weary every time they barely escaped a harsh battle. They could see the bags under his eyes, the way he seemed to be losing weight, and the way he dutifully kept a journal that was suspiciously always tucked out of sight. When Four woke up once during Time’s watch, though, he could see it sitting by his side.

Time was out patrolling when Legend broke the group out of their evening routine. "Does anyone know what's wrong with Time?" he barked out impatiently, drawing everyone's attention. "The old man looks like he's on death's door. Don't tell me you guys haven't noticed."

A chorus of downcast faces gave him his answer.

Before they could discuss it any further, Time returned. If he noticed the heavy silence in the group, he didn't comment on it.

Legend’s comment sparked something inside of Four.

Legend's right. We have to do something!

But what, Red? Time isn't going to tell us anything he doesn't want to. Nobody can make him crack, not even Twilight.

…

Oh no. Vio, what's your idea.

Remember when we woke up in the middle of the night with that terrible headache once?

Yeah?

Who was on watch?

Time.

And what was he doing?

Realization hits the other three.

Keeping a journal.

Vio that's terrible.

It's for his own good, Green! We need to find out what's wrong with him so we can help and we all know he's not going to tell us of his own free will.

I hate to say it, but I think Vio's right.

As usual.

Shut up.

But how are we going to get ahold of the journal in the first place?

What if we ask Legend for help? It was his idea.

We can distract him, and Legend can snatch his journal.

Won't Time realize it's missing?

Not if we can keep him distracted long enough for Legend to figure out what's wrong. He doesn't need to read the whole thing

Good idea. Let's get Legend alone.

Four stared into the fire the group was sitting around. During his internal dialogue, conversation had picked back up again, though strained.

"Do you guys think we need more firewood?" Four asked, making pointed eye contact with Legend.

"I doubt it," Sky replied, "we have a little pile over there and it's getting pretty late."

"Better safe than sorry," Legend yawned, getting up and stretching, "I'll help."

Four nodded his thanks and began heading into the woods with Legend. Twilight's suspicious gaze followed them, though he made no comment.

"What's your plan?" asked Legend the second they got out of earshot.

Four gave him the rundown of everything he had come up with so far. Legend nodded his approval.

"It was a good call asking me. I've got a book that could probably help me translate his Hylian."

"How long should I buy you?"

"I'll need a decent amount of time; a few hours tops. Do you think you can do it?"

"Consider it done."

"Consider what done?"

The two conspirators whirled around, hands on hilts, until they spotted Twilight casually leaning against a tree, arms crossed.

"Twi, you can't stop us. I get that you two are close and all, but-"

"Who said I was going to stop you?"

The two blonds froze.

Twilight pinched the bridge of his nose with his thumb and forefinger.

“It kills me to watch him do this to himself but no matter what I try, he won't tell me anything! He doesn't even seem to think whatever he's doing to himself is wrong! I want to help him, more than anything, and I think this is the only way"

Twilight knew firsthand how obsessed Time could get with his regrets. His desire to teach Twilight the sword had kept his shade from rest for who knows how many years. Twilight knew exactly how Time could get caught up in his head to the point to self-destruction and he didn't want to see it come to that.

"I'll help Four distract Time."

Legend nodded, surprised but grateful.

They split up to gather wood—they had to keep their alibi strong after all—and returned to camp.

"Took you long enough," sassed Warriors, but the three didn’t comment. Instead, Twilight and Four walked up to Time as Legend headed to his own bedroll to organize his inventory. Luckily for him, his spot sat on the edge of the campsite, just like Time's.

He didn’t catch what Twilight and Four said to Time, but Time got thoroughly engrossed in whatever conversation they ended up having, so Legend decided to make his move. He took his box of rings and—with a heavy sigh—tipped it sideways, letting them spill across the floor, rolling towards Time's bedroll and gear.

Warriors glanced over at the sound.

"You good over there, Legend? You need help organizing your jewelry?" Warriors teased, eyeing the rings scattered across the ground.

"My jewelry could kill you so you all better keep your distance while I clean this up," he bit back. To his satisfaction, the group accepted his explanation, not wanting to get cursed by any of Legend's... exotic magic.

It was under this guise that Legend rifled through Time's things, pulling out a small leather journal from between some masks, pocketing it, and picking up the rest of his rings.

He shuffled back to his bedroll, put his box of rings back, and slid the Book of Mudora out of its pocket in his bag. As some of the first stars winked into the sky, Legend began deciphering.

There was no title or date or any sort of preamble. The first entry was rushed and short, only a few sentences. It looked more like Time had jotted down a quick piece of info he wanted to remember for later rather than any sort of journal.

The first word he deciphered was his own name.

He hurriedly deciphered the rest, his blood growing colder with every word.

"Legend: I'm sorry. I'm so f***ing sorry. Tell Hyrule I love him. Tell Warriors I don't actually hate him. Tell—"

Eager to read what followed, he continued deciphering, but to his horror the next word was another name and a new entry.

“Warriors:”

He stopped translating. These were the dying words of his friends, his brothers. The first passage sounded like the very thing he'd cough out with his final breath, something so important and personal that it couldn’t be said until there was no chance of being able to say anything ever again. He looked over at the campfire, at his laughing brothers, and silently closed the Book of Mudora. Whatever needed saying, they’d tell him themselves. These were private, heartfelt words.

He wondered how Time acquired said private, heartfelt words.

He also wondered how many more pages there were and began skimming.

As Legend flipped through the short, clipped sentences, he saw that most of them ended with a sharp, dashed line. Some had small numbers at the bottom, a x2 or x3 and once, a x7.

There were too many. Far too many.

He saw his own name multiple times and wondered how that was even possible, how one person could die multiple times. He thought of his uncle, who had died before his eyes and, though Legend had brought him back, would probably die again eventually.

If Legend had had to guess, he’d say Time had copied down at least 100 dying statements. That was over 11 times for each of them.

Again he wondered how Time had collected so many dying words—different dying words—of people who were, at the moment, still alive.

He wondered why Time had bothered to write them down at all.

But one small question, one he'd had for a while but dismissed, bubbled to the surface.

Why is Time named Time?

A small pebble hitting him in the head snapped him out of his thoughts. His head whipped over to its source and he saw Four looking at him urgently, Twilight stalling as Time began to stand up. Legend got the message and hurriedly tucked the book back where he found it, clutching the paper containing his translations in his curled fist.

Four volunteered for the first watch. Twilight took second. Legend grabbed third.

They all knew they wouldn't be able to sleep anyway.

When Four went to wake up Twilight at the end of his watch, he shook Legend awake as well. A furtive glance toward Time told them that the Old Man was slumbering soundly, or at least appeared to be. Not taking any chances, they moved to the opposite corner of the campsite, talking in hushed voices.

"What did you find?" Four asked Legend urgently, clearly restless after spending his watch in suspense.

Legend sighed.

"It's not good."

Twilight's eyes narrowed and Four's face became a mask of focus, his eyes glinting purple in the firelight.

"His book contains a lot of entries, short little snippets, never longer than a few sentences. There's gotta be about a hundred of them. They all go along these lines." He read his own passage, the only one he had had the heart to fully decipher, and Four and Twilight's gazes shifted from focus to shock and fear.

"The journal is filled with our dying words. Dozens of them. This one... it's.... it wouldn't be inaccurate," he manages to force out.

"I've gone back in time to prevent someone from dying before. I know it's possible. But that involved the Triforce and…  I've only ever done it the one time. But I have one question for you two:" the two listened at rapt attention, understanding and horror filtering into their gazes as he asked his burning question: "Why is Time named Time?"

A cacophony of voices burst through Four's head, causing him to curl in on himself and pull on his hair. Twilight absently put his hand on Four's head, petting him in a hollow pantomime of comfort as he stared brokenly into the fire.

"We've all died," Twilight started. "Dozens of times. All of us, dead. And he watched as every single one of us breathed out our final words and then turned back the clock to save us."

"I always thought he had an uncanny ability to swoop in and save someone in the nick of time," remarked Four, collecting himself.

"But what do we do with this information?" asked Twilight, the tears in his eyes sparkling in the firelight.

"We can't very well ask him to stop, can we? He's saved our lives countless times and we didn't even know it!" asked Four, the red flames of the fire dancing in his eyes.

"He should have told us," Four bit out abruptly, seemingly changing his mind. He froze in shock for a moment before looking up and letting his eyes reflect the blue of the night sky. "He chose to shut himself up for months, watching us die time and time again. He's an idiot is what he is. He could have told us so we could help him when he rewound time. He could have told us how we died so we wouldn't make those same mistakes again! He could have told us so we could comfort him after he watched us die in his arms!"

Twilight, with his arm now around Four's shoulders, beckoned for Legend to sit next to him. He complied, and Twilight pulled him close, soaking in the warmth of two of his very alive, very breathing, brothers. The three boys sat under the stars, tears sparkling in their eyes and running down their faces.

"We have to confront him" stated Legend, leaning into Twilight's side.

"Do we tell everyone else?" Four asked, eyes drooping from exhaustion after already taking his watch and then having to wrestle to keep himself in line in light of the new information.

"We should start by talking to Time," Twilight growled, eyes steely, "I don't want the others finding out like this."

He felt Four nod sleepily into his side and Legend hum his agreement. Twi thought about how he had the chance to comfort and be comforted by his brothers in the light of this news but Time had never had such luxury, even after doing so much more for so much longer.

---------

Wild rose with the sun as he usually did, glancing around the campsite to orient himself. The whole camp was fast asleep, Wind sprawled over Warriors and burritoed in his scarf. Sky snored lazily, spread-eagle on the ground next to his bedroll. Hyrule slept curled up, the closest one to Legend’s empty sleeping bag. Time laid completely still and silent in his bedroll save for the slow rise and fall of his chest. Twilight, Four, and the aforementioned Legend's sleeping bags were all empty and as Wild moved towards the fire, he saw why. Twilight sat on the ground, his back against a log, staring into the dying embers of the fire. Four was curled up against his left side, snoring lightly, while Legend curled into his right. Wild smiled deviously and pulled out his slate, the camera rune already selected, but upon being leveled by the broken, tired, grief-stricken eyes of Twilight, the smile fell off his face and he put the slate away.

He began preparing breakfast somewhat awkwardly before asking quietly: "you wanna talk about it?"

Twilight didn't move, staring into the embers some more. Wild didn't think he was going to get an answer out of him until he heard a stern "if you are ever hurting, no matter how big or how small, tell me. Please."

He looked over to see Twilight looking at him with an urgent, pleading gaze.

"This is about Time, isn't it," Wild replied.

Twilight's shoulders rose, startled.

"I'm not an idiot,” Wild started defensively, “I saw the looks you three were giving each other after Legend's outburst and then you all went off into the woods together and then took watches and now I find you out here snuggling with Legend of all people? You guys figured it out, didn't you. It’s not good, is it." It wasn't a question.

Twilight sighed, defeated. "No, it's not good, cub."

Wild glanced up from his cooking. "What is it?"

Twilight shook his head.

"You hypocrite!" he started, before getting shushed by Twilight. He continued in a whisper, "you tell me I have to tell you everything that's bothering me and not five minutes later you withhold what's eating you from me! I'll tell you what's bothering me: this!"

Twilight opened his mouth to respond—

"Give up, he's got you cornered."

Twilight looked down to see Four staring up at him. He sat up, stretching, before continuing. "We might as well tell him."

At all of the noise and Twilight's shifting, Legend began to stir, moaning and blinking slowly before sitting up with a start. He looked around, disoriented, until he realized he had fallen asleep on Twilight. When he spotted Wild barely holding back a snicker, his face turned the same shade as his pink bangs.

"You should have woken me up," Legend said in a huff, pulling at his tunic, "I said I was taking the last watch."

Twilight didn't tease him like Legend had thought he would, instead saying, "you needed the sleep more. Besides, I wasn't going to get any, anyway."

"Whyever would that be?" asked Wild, trying to inject himself back into the conversation.

"We read Time's journal," started Legend, waving away Twilight's protests with a hand, "and found out that…  we think…  well…  we haven't been as successful as we thought we were. On this adventure, I mean."

At Wild's cocked head, he continued.

"We have reason to believe that we've died, all of us, numerous times, and Time's somehow been turning back the clock to save us before that happens."

Wild listened intently, running his right hand up and down his left arm as he waited for the water to boil. Understanding slowly crept across his face as he looked up at the trio.

"He must have watched us, all of us... so many times. And he never said anything. Never asked for comfort or recognition..."

Four cut in "or even telling us that we had died and warning us how to avoid it later."

Wild thought for a moment before adding "well, he usually does give out pretty cryptic advice after battles," he gasped, "you don't think—"

"I do think," replied Legend, nodding solemnly. This was a point he hadn't previously considered, but it fit his theory.

Wild continued making breakfast in relative silence as the sun continued to rise. Warriors seemed to wake up before the Wind Burrito™ snuggled him back into dreamland. Time sat up, rubbing his eye, and began to start his morning routine.

"Hey old man!" Four stage-whispered, to the horror of his three companions.

Time looked over at them curiously.

Four waved him over and he obliged, standing slowly before picking his way through camp. He cocked an eyebrow at Four, a carefully blank expression on his face, but now that Four knew what Time had been going through, he could see the grief in Time's eye and could imagine that Time must have been seeing his broken, twisted corpse whenever he looked at him.

The smallest hero stood before the tallest before leaning into his chest and wrapping his arms around him. "Thank you for keeping us safe," Four said into Time's tunic.

Time looked around in confusion before Twilight barreled into him, doing the same.

"We're safe. We're safe thanks to you," Twilight said, wrapping his arms around his mentor from the side. Wild didn't hesitate to follow Twilight's lead before squeezing himself next to his own mentor. Legend watched as tears began to fill Time's eyes and he looked down at who the Old Man saw to be his own children.

"But Pops," Legend drawled, eyes narrowed and a hand on his hip, "f***ing talk to us about it. That's what we're for, right?"

He was met with Wild reaching out and grabbing his tunic, pulling him into the group hug. Tears were streaming down the left side of Time's face and he melted into the arms of his boys, relishing their beating hearts and warm bodies.

They broke the hug after a few moments, Time furiously wiping his eye and the others sniffling slightly and wiping their own. Time tried to collect himself, gravity sinking into his voice as he said: "so you know, then."

Twilight opened his mouth to reply but Legend jumped in first. "No thanks to you! We watched you slowly deteriorate for weeks, Old Man! We thought you were gonna drop dead and you didn't f***ing say anything! The only reason we know is—" Legend cut himself off, realizing he was getting carried away and not wanting to divulge too much.

"The only reason you know is...?" Time questioned, voice growing stern. Legend squirmed for a moment before Twilight stepped in, finally asking: "how many times?"

"You'll have to be more specific, Pup"

"How many times have you rewound time to save us?"

"As many as I needed to."

"That's not a number," growled Twilight, leveling a glare icy enough to rival Time's own.

Time sighed. "Eighty-seven."

Legend's brow furrowed in confusion. There were a lot more than 87 entries in Time’s book. Time noticed. "Sometimes I had to do multiple people a run," he explained. Legend looked up in shock. Had time figured out that Legend had read his journal? Legend wasn't surprised; Time was one of their sharpest members, after all.

"A run?" started Twilight, "a run? You've got a cute little name for it and everything, don’t you. Eighty-seven times, huh? How many runs were you going to do before telling us?"

"Twi," said Four evenly, putting his hand on the teen's arm. He looked at him pleadingly, silently asking him to back down.

Twi sighed, deflating. Time could see his anger for what it really was: worry, fear, love.

Legend figured that Time was onto him anyway, so he decided to come clean about the journal.

"Yeah, but Time," Legend began, almost pleadingly, "why did you have to keep that Hylia-forsaken journal? So you could keep a lovely chronicle of the pain of watching us die over and over again? Why—" he bit back something resembling a sob— "did you write down all of our last words?" Legend asked, searching Time's face.

"In case something happened and we couldn't get your real last ones. In case I couldn't fix it. Because... I thought they deserved to be recorded. I know firsthand that traveling through time causes new timelines to be born. That that Legend is dead in a world where he always will be. Just because I left that world does not make it any less real or that Legend any less dead."

Wild's eyes widened in realization. "You didn't just fix it right away, did you?" He asked. "You buried us, didn't you."

"Every time..." Four trailed off, staring into the distance.

The group descended upon Time again, wrapping him in another, fiercer, bear hug. They got interrupted by Wild's pot boiling over and they quickly untangled while he went to salvage their breakfast. It was good timing, though, as the rest of the camp was beginning to stir, Warriors finally breaking free of the snuggle clutches of the Wind Burrito™ and Hyrule blearily rubbing his eyes. Wind began to unroll himself from the burrito, and Sky began to stir.

Sky, Wind, Warriors, and Hyrule eventually joined the others for breakfast. They all sat around the fire before Wind piped up. "What happened?" he asked Wild. Sentences trailed off as everyone waited for Wild's response. "Something happened?" he asked, trying his best to act nonchalant, but the others had caught on. "Breakfast doesn't taste the same and you've all been awfully quiet," Wind elaborated. Hyrule eyed Legend. He did seem rather off. Warriors' searching eyes caught Twilight's, looking for an explanation, but Twilight's only response was to flick his eyes up to Time. Sky turned towards Time and smiled slightly. "You look better," he remarked simply, startling everyone. "You don't look quite so broken anymore." The group stared in shock at that. He turned to the group. "I won't press," Sky shrugged as an explanation. "He's doing better. I don't see how prying would help."

"Just because you aren't aware of the actions someone took to cause a given outcome, that doesn't mean the outcome would have occurred without their aid," Four cryptically contributed.

The Links in the know shot surprised looks at Four, who glanced softly at Time.

"Would someone please explain what's going on," pleaded Warriors. Time sighed, setting down his empty bowl. He began explaining, but instead of giving them the facts that the other Links had puzzled out, he told it like a story. He told them the story of how Legend, after getting stabbed from behind by a lizalfos, had died in his arms. He told the Links how he had quickly committed his last words to memory, scribbling them down in his journal. He told the Links how the weight of his ocarina hung on his belt, how memories of rewinding time to save lives ran through his head, how he knew that other timelines branched off every time he rewound. He told them how they buried Legend and he read his last words out of his journal as the remaining eight wept. He told them how he had explained to the other Links that there was a way to get Legend back, but that they would never see that other world. He told them how he hugged them all goodbye before playing the Song of Time and materializing right behind Legend, decapitating the lizalfos before it could get to the red-clad hero. The group stared in awe and shock at Time, but also at Legend. Hyrule leaned farther into Legend's side, sniffling. Legend wrapped his arm around the brunet's shoulders.

Time trailed off after he finished his story, allowing the others to figure out for themselves that he had done that whole process 87 times. That there were 87 timelines out there where they were heartbroken, destroyed, dead, and Time had vanished, promising a better future for a different group of Links. "I could only pray that Hylia erased those timelines when I prevented their existence, but I could never be sure. I had to make sure each timeline was the best it could be before I left it."

At that, something dawned on Sky and he rushed over to where he had the Master Sword sheathed by his bedroll. He drew it and wrapped his hands around the hilt, staring at the blade intently and mumbling under his breath. The group watched in confusion, eventually collectively realizing that Sky was asking Fi if she knew what had happened to the other timelines. Sky paused for a moment as though listening before slumping down in relief.

"She says that when you prevent a future, the alternate timeline ceases to exist as if it had never happened." Sky smiles warmly, "the only thing that causes a timeline to continue, even if it has been prevented in another world, is the interference of the Triforce. Legend's not dead. Nobody is. They're all right here."

Time's eye widened in shock. He broke down in that moment, hundreds of lives lost no longer weighing down on him. Wind dove into his arms, the other Links following suit in the third and teariest group hug of the day.

"If only someone could have told you this 86 'runs' ago" muttered Legend under his breath before getting smacked over the head by Hyrule.

---------

After that morning, they would have liked to be able to say that everything went back to normal, but that would have been a lie.

A few days later, they were ambushed in the middle of the night. Hyrule had been on watch, and despite him waking everyone up, they couldn't get prepared in time to defend themselves very well. Twilight had woken with a start to Hyrule's cries, reaching for his sword before getting yanked back by a fully armored Time just in time to watch a spear from one of Sky's moblins crash down where he would have been standing. Twilight stared at Time in shock, who was still clutching his ocarina in his left hand. Twilight froze at the sight before his mentor shook him. "There's no time. Guard Wild's back."

Twilight didn't need to be told twice. Time finished off the moblin and Twilight grabbed his sword, rushing to protect Wild. The battle ended shortly thereafter. It had been a quick, previously deadly, calculated strike. Clearly, their enemy had a very strong grasp on tactics. As the group cleared out their camp, Twilight whispered something in Wild's ear. The younger gasped in shock and the two rushed to where Time was packing up his bedroll and tackled him in a hug.

"Thank you" whispered Twilight into Time's tunic. Wild gingerly picked up Time's hand and placed it over his beating heart like he'd had to do a few times with Flora after the Calamity.

"I'm alive. I'm safe. It's okay."

Needless to say, the group got rather accustomed to the sight of Time in tears, but they also hugged him far more as well. After the battle, Wind spotted Time writing in his journal. Had he been able to read any of it, he’d know that it had said:

Twilight: It’s going to be okay. I love you.

Wild: This isn’t goodbye and you know it. Just play that ocarina of yours and we’ll be right as rain.

“Hey, Time.” Time looked up. Wind continued, “because you know now that the other timelines stopped existing, you don’t have to write those down anymore.” Time started as if he were about to say something before Wind suddenly got an idea. “What if we all wrote down our words so you don’t have to! We could all write out everything we might want to say so you don’t have to copy down those short little sentences anymore.”

“Some people did that in the army,” Warriors butted into the conversation. “It was common practice to write that kind of stuff down for your next of kin before heading out. It’ll make your life a heck of a lot easier, Old Man. Besides,” he added with a wry grin, “I’m not gonna spill out my guts if I know I’m just coming back anyway.”

Time relented. He knew from experience that they never had time to get out everything they wanted to say in those final moments. He nodded his approval and that evening, the whole group solemnly wrote out everything they didn’t want to leave unsaid.

---------

Once, while the group had been trekking through the Snowpeak of Twilight's world, Wild pulled out his shield and prepared to surf down a particularly steep and icy hill.

"Cub." Twilight scolded, "Don't. You'll get yourself killed."

"It's never happened before!" replied Wild cheerily before they all froze, realizing what he'd just said. They turned to Time.

Time shook his head gratefully, "not as of yet. But I still wouldn't—"

That was all the encouragement Wild needed before readying his shield again. Right as he was about to jump, he felt a hand snare the back of his tunic, stopping him. He turned and was met with the face of Time, a new, haunted look in his eyes, and an ocarina clutched in his left hand.

Wild was noticeably less reckless after that, much to the relief of everyone, especially Twilight.

That night, Four sidled up to Time and asked quietly, "how long did we look before giving up?"

Time sighed, "using the ocarina takes a toll on me. I try not to use it unless it's absolutely necessary."

"How long."

"A few days."

At that, something in Four's eyes flashed red and he found Wild, dragged him by the tunic and shoved him into Time's arms. "Give this man a hug," was all he said before heading back to rejoin the others around the fire. Wild didn't need to be told twice.

Time began to look healthier and healthier, no longer on the verge of death. He had to travel back less and less frequently because of his group's newfound self-awareness and he never had to travel back more than once for the same event. He had also been spending less time in each alternate future, only ever sticking around long enough to ensure that there was no other option before they smiled and told Time they’d see him later.

"Moral of the story," chirped Legend happily one day over dinner, "always read your friends' journals without their permission."

Hyrule thwacked him over the head with his spoon.

---------

Bonus:

“There’s no way he survived that fall, Twilight.”

“He has to have. He wouldn’t let something this stupid kill him.”

“Yeah, actually, he kind of would.”

Hyrule hit Legend in the back of the head.

“Are you gonna rewind?” Four asked Time.

He sighed. “There’s no way he’s lasted this long with those injuries. We very well might starve out here anyway considering Wild has all the food. We’ve tried everything. Even Wind’s pendant isn’t helping.”

“Besides,” Sky points out, putting his hand on Twilight’s shoulder, “Wild won’t have to go through all that pain if we rewind.”

“But,” Time adds meaningfully, “let’s not resort to altering the flow of time for the sake of convenience. It’s not exactly easy for me to pull off. Sometimes I miss.”

The group nods solemnly.

“So we’re going back, then?”

“I think we’ll have to.”

Time grabs his ocarina before Legend stops him.

“So when you rewind time, none of us will remember this, right?”

“We’ll walk along the cliff, Wild will ask if the stunt will kill him, I’ll tell him yes, and we’ll keep walking. None of this will happen.”

“Sweet,” says Legend, a mischievous glint in his eye. He walks over to Warriors. “Hey Warriors.”

“Yeah?”

“You suck at life.” Legend punches him in the face. “Turn it back, now!”

Time does not, in fact, turn it back. Instead he watches in amusement as Warriors punches Legend in the face. Then, he starts playing the ocarina.

“I’ll punch you in the face!” yells Legend over the music, but Time’s smirk reminds Legend that he won’t remember to.

Hyrule smacks Legend over the head again for kicks before they finally cease to be.

[hmse-research-blog]

Overwhelming & Brutal

Overwhelming (verb)

Have a strong emotional effect on

Overcome with emotion

Affected by something very strongly

Synonym to: strike, move, affect

Brutal (adjective)

Unpleasant or harsh

Direct without any attempt to disguise unpleasantness

Synonym but not limited to: violent, savage, direct

Brutal & Overwhelming

A combination of both words have a negative-leaning connotation. The experience of course, is subjective to each audience. People who loves seeing horror or action film might find these emotion exhilarating while people who hates loud noises and jump-scare might hate the emotion and feel scared. Study by Lynch and Martins (2015) shows that low empathisers have more tendency to enjoy violent and gore media and vice versa.

Horror enthusiast seeks sensation from suspense and resolve. Suspense for example, is when a character is in threat of a masked killer and resolve is when the killer is finally caught or killed in retaliation. We often feel a sense of euphoria and relieve when a threat is resolved and such logic happens behind a horror enthusiast’s mind.

Zuckerman’s model of sensation-seeking mentions four related but different factors that includes:

thrill and adventure seeking

experience seeking

disinhibition

boredom susceptibility.

Bibliography:

Lissek S., Powers A. S. (2003). Sensation seeking and startle modulation by physically threatening images. Biol. Psychol. 63, 179–197.

Lynch T., Martins N. (2015). Nothing to fear? An analysis of college students’ fear experiences with video games. J. Broadcast. Electron. Media 59, 298–317.

Zuckerman M. (1988). Sensation seeking and behavior disorders. Arch. Gen. Psychiatry 45, 502–503.

Here are the examples of 11 artworks that feels brutal or overwhelming or both:

Requiem for A Dream

(viewer discretion is advised)

Requiem for a Dream (2000) is a film depicting addicts who are connected to each other. This movie often uses parallel cuts to indicate things are happening at the same time. The use of meditative music over heart-wrenching scenes creates a haunting effect. The editing choice in the final scenes successfully created tension and the continuously looping parallel shots of the characters proves to be overwhelming.

Before Your Eyes

Before Your Eyes tells a story of a boy who died very young due to an illness. This game utilises motion sensors and the game progresses every time the player blinks. Each scene is crafted with great details making the players holding their blink to elongate the scene. The first person perspective makes the audience sits in the young boy's place watching life flashing before their eyes. This game is overwhelmingly beautiful and heart-wrenching in its aspect to cherish whatever amount time we have left on earth.

Devotion

In Devotion (2019), the user plays as a father solving clues and puzzles as to what happens in his life. This game criticises the influence of cults in Taiwan. It also heavily criticises overbearing parents and the stigma of mental illness in Asia.

The use of red colour during revelation and flashback scenes and the silent jumpscare during most of the gameplays is very effective to keep the players anxious. This technique also does not over expose the players resulting in a more unpredictable jumpscares. Besides it’s graphic imagery and colour scheme, this game is brutal due to its harsh and raw depictions of cults and superstitions that affects vulnerable families in Taiwan.

Source:

https://www.jstor.org/stable/20059000

https://factsanddetails.com/southeast-asia/Taiwan/sub5_1b/entry-3814.html

Everywhere At The End of Time

This album created by The Caretaker depicts the mind of a patient with alzheimer. The 6 hour long piece involves a continuously degrading set of music. Each stage shows a deteriorated version of it’s previous stage. The album ends at static noises and ultimately long silence.

What makes this album eerie, overwhelming and brutal is the idea behind it. Exposing the audience to what dementia sounds like forces them to emphatise with the memories. The duration of the album also emphasises the slow and painful degeneration and by stage 5 the sudden void creates a horrible overwhelmingly somber aura knowing the memories are forever gone.

Ouroborindra (album)

Ouroborindra (2005) was produced by Jim Jupp under the pseudonym “Eric Zann”. Jupp stated this album was inspired by H.P. Lovecraft. Similar to Lovecraft, this album has a haunting and hair-raising aesthetic. A minute listening session gives the audience a taste of Lovecraftian cosmic horror.

The static noise and continuously evolving sounds creates an overwhelming eeriness while not being painful to hear. Some parts are accompanied by pianos giving the listener’s ear some time to rest. This arrangement choice proves to be excellent as it creates a pleasant bridge and outro.

Source:

https://ghostbox.greedbag.com/buy/ouroborindra-0/

Brutalist Architecture

At a glance, this architecture looks boring and unappealing. What makes a brutalist characteristic is the blocky and chunky design.

Some argue that brutalism is an egalitarian movement, this movement strays away from white painted walls with decorated windows typical of the time. At the time, the geometric and blocky design was considered modern. This evidence appears in futuristic movies and in spy/war movies symbolising rebellion, modernism, and revolution.

Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (2011)

Black Mirror (2011)

Source:

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/10331867.2015.1032481

Shoujo Tsubaki (Camellia Girl)

(viewer discretion is advised)

Shoujo Tsubaki (1992) is a film adapted from the comic of the same title. The uncensored animation completed with voice acting added many layers of disturbance and the feeling of dread. Many people found this film very upsetting resulting to banning in several countries.

This artwork is one of the greater known titles within the ero-guro (short for erotic-grotesque) genre. The Ero-guro genre symbolises resistance and rebellion during world war 1. Some also enjoy it as escapism and sexual liberation. This film is brutal due to its depiction of grooming, abuse, and nonsensical grotesque scenes.

Source:

https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/record.jsf?pid=diva2%3A1570686&dswid=8039

Sistine Chapel Church

The wall and ceiling of the Sistine Chapel were painted by Michelangelo (1508-1512). It is not surprising that this work took an incredibly arduous time that Michelangelo dreads working on it. The details and paint stand the test of time and the colossus artwork will make every visitor gasps in awe. Each painting has incredible details and the colours are carefully coordinated. It only takes a single glance to feel overwhelmed by the presence of this artwork.

Source:

https://www.jstor.org/stable/1464068

Japan Sinks

Japan Sinks is a Japanese animation series created by Masaaki Yuasa. The animation was an adaptation of a novel with the same title. Each depiction of death are raw and uncensored oftentimes includes close-ups. This series was a contribution to Paralympics 2020 and was set to release as a promotional campaign.

It doesn’t take the brightest bulb to notice the brutality of this series. The main characters experienced sudden deaths of their loved ones and the grief was left unprocessed until much late. Naturally, this end of the world scenario includes a multitude of body counts. Many great characters did not survive and their final scenes include close-ups and slow motion of their remnants making their sudden demise even more brutal, leaving a gaping hole in the viewer’s heart.

Judith Slaying Holofernes (Artemisia Gentileschi version)

The painting showed an “uncensored” gory scene of Judith beheading her abuser helped by another woman. It is said that Gentileschi was inspired by her master, Caravaggio. Caravaggio’s version had a different composition and the painting shows Holofernes holding his blood, resembling strings.

Judith beheading Holofernes (Caravaggio)

Unlike her master, Gentileschi did not hold back nor consider making the painting palatable for the viewer. The more brutal interpretation made the intention behind the painting even clearer. It is one of the strongest depiction of complex independent women and a strong message of feminism in baroque era.

Source:

https://digitalcommons.butler.edu/urc/2018/arthistory/2/

Notre Dame Basilica (Montreal)

This gothic style cathedral is located in Quebec City, Montreal. The three-story-tall hall symbolises the church’s power and the huge size of a cathedral has been known to give psychological effects to the devoters. The blue colours represent the sky and heaven, the red colours complemented by gold accents gives a royalty and majestic look. The pillars will reverberate the sound of organs creating an effect of “heavenly sounds”, many believers are attracted to this sound resulting in higher attendance. The design of the cathedral makes the attendees feel small and overwhelmed as if the church attendees are “meeting” God.

Source:

https://www.mdpi.com/2077-1444/11/9/478/htm

https://askinglot.com/why-are-gothic-cathedrals-so-tall

Final short reflection:

Each of the artworks above shows a great amount of research and thoughts poured into the small details. They each have their own unique approach creating unique and impactful results.

[doomonfilm]

Review : The Tomorrow War (2021)

HBOMax and Netflix both had entries for the weekend of July 4, so it only makes sense that Amazon Prime would make sure that their presence was felt as well.  After the swing at big budget glory that was Infinite, Amazon Prime’s recent science-fiction offering starring Mark Wahlberg, another big box office presence finds himself as the face of an Amazon production in the form of Chris Pratt, the household name whose fame grew after a stint in Parks & Rec and a star-making role as Peter Quill in the MCU’s Guardians of the Galaxy franchise.  Based on the trailers, the film has all the trappings of a big budget, special effects and action-driven popcorn flick, so I decided to give it a shot.   

If it weren’t for the deep science-fiction premise, The Tomorrow War could almost be mistaken as a commentary on the Military Industrial Complex, like an inverse take on the Starship Troopers approach.  Watching Dan Forestor instantly transform from a teacher and family man into his former war-hardened soldier form feels noble in terms of its intent, and maybe it’s just the cynic in me, but it immediately puts a coldness on the entire future war affair, as if pure detachment is needed to survive a threat that draftees are given zero time to comprehend.  The fact that a worldwide draft is implemented to subdue a universal threat is oddly timely for the conspiracy theorist in me, especially in light of the fact that there seems to be an interesting sea change on the horizon in regard to the political stance on public knowledge of extraterrestrial existence.  Even with this otherworldly threat standing as antagonist, the film doesn’t hesitate to play on the beat that having the enemy emerge from within is a strong possibility.  Despite the way that I’ve rambled about this particular spectrum of The Tomorrow War, Chris McKay and company balance these threads quite well, and all while ramping up the energy and momentum of the film from story beat to story beat.

With Infinite standing as Amazon Prime’s other attempt at rolling out a blockbuster (as previously mentioned), one can garner that a fascination with time-based narratives is becoming a common thread.  The Tomorrow War borrows the best aspects of the Terminator franchise and Shane Carouth’s Primer approach to build its framework, which allows the logic needed for this particular suspension of belief to be sold due to concepts that seems easy to explain at face value, but above the head of standard comprehension upon reflection.  For example, the acknowledgement of the generational gap that would exist between the young military force from 30 years in the future and the middle-aged draftees helps us dispel the worry for potential time paradoxes due to meeting yourself in the future, but it also sets up a slight John Connor mythos once you realize the Forestor father and daughter relationship will boomerang back and forth through time, at least from Dan’s point of view.  Positioning time as fluid and always moving allows McKay and company to implement the fixed point theory of time travel, which instantly raises the stakes of the story due to the built-in ticking clock that comes from making sure you don’t miss your return window.  With these two foundational points strongly set, a sort of narrative tuned mass damper is built which allows you to stack all types of realistic and imaginary science on top of what the audience has already accepted.

There seems to always be some sort of indistinguishable gap between the historic big budget releases in theaters and the small sample serving of streaming service attempts, but The Tomorrow War is a huge step in closing that gap when it comes to production value.  Viewers will immediately notice the impressive use of effects for both the time travel and the Whitespikes, and when we are given moments to view the post-apocalyptic world, it is stylized enough to have an emotional impact.  The combat is appealing to watch, much like the previously mentioned Starship Troopers, as a good mix of novice, survivalist and pure military approaches are mixed in among our characters, with as much adaptive learning being present as there are unfortunate casualties.  There are a number of powerful allusions to Vietnam present in the film, such as the use of choppers and air strikes, the post-traumatic stress and shattered worldview of returning soldiers, deserters, and much more.  The overall tone of despair and danger weighs heavily on the film, and using unconditional familial love as the driving force of hope rather than traditional romantic love is a nice change of pace.

Chris Pratt does what he does best, mixing his natural charm, humor and ability to symbolically and literally gather the troops in his role as the leading man of The Tomorrow War, while also being one of the most believable members of the combat force.  Edwin Hodge matches Pratt’s intensity in terms of combat while providing an edge that stands in opposition to Pratt’s warmth, which makes them a formidable dynamic duo.  Yvonne Strahovski manages to present a façade of military leadership to mask a clearly volatile presence of love that must be held in check in order to make sure her mission is successful, which echoes the adoration shown by Ryan Kiera Armstrong in her role as the younger Muri Forestor.  Betty Gilpin remains hopeful (and even mentally sharp) in the face of a threat that would cause many similar characters to go to pieces and play their characters as fragile, one-note worried housewives.  Sam Richardson provides a solid mixture of comic relief and scientific knowledge, which is welcome within the midst of a very heavy soldier presence that dominates the film, giving the average viewer someone they can latch on to.  J.K. Simmons makes a couple of notable appearances (I wouldn’t mind seeing him work with Chris Pratt again in the future), while Jasmine Mathews, Keith Powers, an interestingly cast Mary Lynn Rajskub, Mike Mitchell and Seth Scenall round out the supporting cast.

The Tomorrow War reminds me of my time working at the movie theater back when I was in high school, specifically the summer that Independence Day was released.  I’m not saying that McKay has found that Roland Emmerich magic, but he has managed to match the spectacle of Independence Day in a way that modern day audiences can relate to.  If streaming services can match the quality of films like The Tomorrow War moving forward, I may have to stop mentioning the movies in a light that makes them sound lower tier. 

[annalyticall]

Anime Newbie in her Twenties Ranks her First 10 Anime

With the recommendations of my sister @ging-ler​ and friends, I started watching anime just over a year ago and within that time I’ve watched a total of 10 - some clocking in at almost 200 episodes and some with only 12. I told myself a while ago that once I had finished 10 anime shows I would rank them like some Anime Newbie WatchMojo list, so, here we are. Really this is just an excuse to force more of my unwarranted opinions onto unwilling followers.

I should also preface this by saying I don’t think any of the anime I watched this year was bad, and I enjoyed a lot about every show even if I ranked some low. However, the top three anime on my list are the ones I would recommend to anyone following me even if they don’t watch anime.

10. Death Note

Despite absolutely loathing the “protagonist” since episode one, I really enjoyed the first half of Death Note! The story was intriguing with all of its wild twist and turns and I found myself immediately invested in what was going to happen next. Unfortunately, after the death of who I thought was by far the best character, the show seems to go off the rails as it introduces new characters and contrived plot devices in the second half that were frankly hard for me to care about at that point. The ending was satisfying but I forced myself to sit through a lot of painful meandering to get there.

9. Cowboy Bebop

Cowboy Bebop was the first anime I watched as suggested to me by @mcsherrybr​. The smooth and jazzy art, atmosphere, animation, action, and music were all a lot of fun, as were the lovable ragtag group of misfits that made up the main cast. I enjoyed myself a lot while watching this western/sci-fi melding pot of a show, and I only ranked it so low because the last few episodes were a huge disappointment to my found-family-trope-loving heart.

8. Violet Evergarden

Violet Evergarden, following the story of a child soldier learning to love, is absolutely beautiful to look at and listen to. The music in this anime is, for me, THE best music from any show on this list. This is also the only anime that made me sob several times while watching it. The collection of short episodic stories that explore the deep facets of human love and connection are incredibly resonant and will stay with me for a long time. However, the strength of the small story arcs made the rushed overarching war story and finale weaker in comparison. Similarly, the memorable characters introduced in the one-off side plots were more interesting to me than the cast of rather bland reoccurring supporting characters. While I will remember a lot of great individual moments, I can’t seem to remember a single character’s name besides Violet’s, but that might also be due to being one of the shorter entries at only 12 episodes.

7. Hunter x Hunter (2011)

Going from one of the shortest anime on this list to the longest, Hunter x Hunter was an great and engrossing story during the entirety of its 160+ episodes. It’s colorful and playful, but can also be very dark and at times even heart-wrenching. Because it contains so many distinct arcs, there is a wide variety characters and stories to get attached to, and some, like the Chimera Ant Arc, I even cried over. But this also left me with issues regarding the pacing. The show has great action and introspective moments but will often drag with long drawn-out pauses between fights to explain simple concepts (though I understand that’s a common trope in old shonen anime in general). The world-building is rich but also caught me off guard with some strange ideas, and admittedly not all of them I liked. Some eccentric characters and concepts rubbed me the wrong way and ended up hindering my enjoyment of the show. Overall though, it was a lot of fun and I left with a few more endearing favorite characters, like Leorio and Killua.

6. Erased

Also a 12 episode anime, Erased was amazingly impactful for how short it was. Even as I followed the unfolding murder mystery, I was also touched by the meaningful themes and kind-hearted characters I met along the way. The already-strong story is accentuated with great symbolism, art, and music. The only problem I had was with the mystery itself; I was able to tell who the true killer was within the first 4 episodes, which didn’t lend itself well to suspense and I spent the remaining episodes frustrated that the main characters couldn’t see some obvious clues.This is a minor problem, though, since the finale has less to do with mystery and more about the morals and resolution of themes that I felt was satisfying.

5. Demon Slayer

Demon Slayer is gorgeous. The stunning art style, fluid animation, and breath-taking music are all valid reasons to watch it, but the main character Tanjiro and his unwavering devotion to find a cure for his sister-turned-demon Nezuko are the reasons to stay. Tanjiro is unbelievably gentle as he shows even the evil demons he has to slay a hard-fought kindness, and it’s those tender moments between all of the amazing action sequences that really elevate this show for me. The issues I have lie with the rest of the cast. While I love some supporting characters, like the pig-headed Inosuke and the stoic Giyuu, others have very niche personalities that can get annoying if they’re on screen for too long, which they definitely tend to be. Still, the bond between Tanjiro and Nezuko is so strong that it gets me through even those dragging scenes.

And it’s written by a woman!

4. My Hero Academia

Hey so this might come as a shock for anyone who’s followed me for a while: My Hero Academia is not my favorite anime! I do love it a lot - it’s the only anime on this list that has inspired me to read the manga, write fic, and buy merch. There are so many lovable characters and exciting arcs in this show that there is bound to be something for everyone to enjoy, both inside and outside of canon. It’s a wonderfully paced and animated deconstruction of the superhero genre and besides its deeper themes and commentary, there’s also just a lot of endearing teenage goofin’ to be had, and the show balances the tone of these two almost-equally engaging aspects of the story fairly well.

The downside, for me, is the show’s sexualization of female characters, especially the teenagers. With the likes of pervy fellow classmate Mineta, it’s a flaw that’s hard to avoid and takes up an unfortunate amount of screen time. There are in-universe characters that protest against this behavior, and the female characters are still well-written for the most part, but that doesn’t make up for the canon material including it at all. It’s not a huge part of the show but it’s present enough that it really knocks the ranking down for me.

3. Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

Out of my top 5, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is the only one that is complete. Because of that, I can tentatively say that so far, it is the best completed story on this list. From beginning to end, the pacing was perfect - the action never dragged, the characters were never unnecessary, and the plot twists were never unearned. I found myself more invested than I thought I would ever be for the large cast of characters, and everything, including its ending, was satisfying to watch. The animation is fluid and lent itself well to the most impactful scenes, especially involving the flame alchemist Roy Mustang. It’s also written by a woman! Really, the only nitpicks I have were with tonal problems - serious moments would sometimes be ruined by too much slapstick or visual gags.

As I mentioned before, my Top 3 are shows I would recommend to anyone who’s unfamiliar with anime simply because they’re good solid stories with almost no distracting anime tropes. This is a good place to start.

2. The Promised Neverland

The Promised Neverland is deceiving; on the surface it looks like a sweet show about a bunch of adorable kids playing together in the spacious green backyard of their quaint orphanage. Once you finish the first episode, however, you will quickly discover that there is definitely something more sinister lurking under the surface. This show is an expertly executed dark horror/thriller that always had me on the edge of my seat. The cute aesthetic never distracts from the suspense, in fact, it adds to the discomfort when the horrific visuals and expressions are contrasted against the character designs. I loved all of the characters, including the antagonist, who manages to be just as sympathetic as she is menacing. The sound design and music are also beautiful and adds so much to the rich atmosphere. I am definitely excited to see where this series will go!

1. Mob Psycho 100

ONE, the creator of Mob Psycho 100, said the single word he used for the concept for the series was “kindness”. Kindness shines through so much of this story following the life of Mob, a super-psychic kid that just wants to fit in, and I adore every second of it. While many shonen anime stories force the child protagonist to get stronger, become more powerful, and fight in battles against hostile adults, Mob Psycho 100 says “that’s stupid. Kids shouldn’t have to be traumatized by immature power-hungry adults. The only strength that anyone should pursue is strength of character, motivated by self-love and love for others.” And it says it with the most beautiful animation I have EVER seen in a show. The simplistic character designs mean the animators can have as much creative freedom as they like with expressions and movement, and they absolutely use that freedom. Humor is a large part of this mostly-comedy anime, but it makes the serious and introspective scenes so much more important when they do happen. The shifts between these two tones never feel awkward or imbalanced.

Mob Psycho 100 has inspired me to become more experimental and joy-seeking with my art, as well as just become a better person in my own life, which I can’t say for many other anime or many other pieces of media period. Even though a Season 3 hasn’t been officially announced yet, I can still safely say Mob Psycho 100 will forever hold a special place in my heart.