#this is an older one hence the maturity of the plants

[aisling-saoirse]

Cypress Restoration on Okeechobee - February 20th 2024

[nobodieshero-main]

Cecily

right off the bat: her real name is actually Kathia (Cah-tee-yah), but she goes by her mothers name which is why everyone knows her as Cecily.

She's the youngest of three siblings, and when she was very little her parents died of an illness so her older brothers (Sidiro + Nima) worked together to raise her and provide for her the best they could. For this reason, the three of them are very close, and Cecily is very protective of them.

They're from the outer edge of the Capital, which is the poorer area, so when she was old enough she started helping her brothers with their jobs (Nima is a tailor, Sid is a blacksmith) and picked up a lot of random skills and habits.

As a kid she was always using her brain to get into all sorts of mischief and while she eventuallygrew out of sneaking into fancy parties and playing pranks on city guards, she never grew out of her talent for strategy. This, of course, came in handy throughout the multiple times in her life where she got into fights with bullies because she has personal beef with anyone who picks on someone else. (And later, when she joins a quest to slay a dragon.)

This is how she met her bestie and partner in crime Naz!

When they were 8 some noble kids broke Naz's pan flute and Cecily was like "great, now im gonna break your faces" and Naz was like "well i cant let this random girl get hurt for me, i may as well help" and then they both wound up at Naz's house while their mum Pieka washed the blood out of their clothes. It's no surprise they're ride-or-die for each other, Naz even attempted to sneak into PABC once to smuggled Cecily some of Pieka's baking.

(It feels worth mentioning that Naz is usually the one who's saying "Kathia, no" while Cecily grins and says "Kathia, yes.")

When she's 12, Cecily is taken to Prota's Academy for Beginner Casting (the previously mentioned PABC, aka "youth caster training") which is where she meets and befriends Atlas! PABC ends when the caster is 16, hence the "youth" part of the nickname, and instead of going off to become an apprentice, Cecily went back home and started working at Pieka's post office with Naz.

In their spare time they were performers- Naz played music and Cecily would either dance or sing with them.

She meets Ahria when she's about 17, and it's very much a love-at-first sight type of deal, even after Cecily watched Ahria almost brain herself seconds after their eyes met <3

By the time she hit her 20's Cecily had mellowed out a lot and had become much more mature and level-headed, and she'd learned when she needed to use her words and when she needed to use her fists. She was quite content with her life, actually, and then suddenly one day Atlas was at her door asking her about dragons and quests and oh there's the part of her that thrived on using her brain for adventure.

So all of this leads to a person who's calm and collected on the surface, she's a very grounded and somewhat serious person and she can be unbelievably stubborn about some things; but she's also curious about the world and people in a mad-scientist sort of way. She's a trickster and loves the thrill of a plan coming together, especially when if it involves fucking with a bully.

random things about her

her magic is strongest with plants, and some of her more complicated casting allows her to communicate with them

she can sew, but she always stabs herself with the needle at least once

she takes the longest to trust keika, mainly bc she sees how quickly atlas does and she's like "is this how naz feels-"

she has a tiny note book tucked away in one of her packs that's full of recipes she's learned along their journey, that she intends to give to her aunt Pieka when she gets home (it's an extra incentive to make it home)

she's the best at first aid, and general healing, out of all of them

she makes flower crowns for her wife, and uses her magic to make sure they last for ages

enjoys hearty and warm food, hates the fancy shit they serve at noble dinners

she likes things that jingle

[northshoretreevd]

What Time Of The Year Is Best For Pruning Trees In Sydney?

Pruning is a vital part of tree care, and when done correctly by tree loppers Sydney, it can promote healthy growth and prolong the life of a tree. However, the timing of pruning is just as important as the technique used. The time you choose to prune can have a significant impact on the overall health and vitality of your trees. Known for its temperate oceanic climate, the ideal time to prune trees in Sydney generally depends on the specific type of tree and its health.

The following guidelines will help you decide when it is the right time of the year to prune the trees on your property.

Seasonal Guidelines for Pruning

Most deciduous and many evergreen species can be pruned during the dormant season, typically late winter and early spring. Pruning during this period minimises sap loss and subsequent stress to the tree. It also helps the tree to heal quicker, as new growth starts shortly after pruning. When trees are dormant, they're less likely to contract diseases that may spread from open wounds.

However, not all trees should be pruned during this time. Certain flowering trees, particularly those that blossom in spring, such as magnolias or camellias, should be pruned after they finish blooming. Pruning them during dormancy could risk removing the wood that will produce the spring flowers.

Summer pruning is also an option for certain tree species and purposes. This method is generally used for corrective measures, such as removing defective limbs that could cause potential hazards. It's also advantageous for slowing down the growth of trees or branches that are growing too quickly or in the wrong direction.

Pruning for Tree Health and Maintenance

Understanding the health and life cycle of your tree is crucial when determining the best time to prune. The goal of pruning should always be to enhance the tree's natural form and character, while also promoting health and vigour.

For young trees, formative pruning early in their life can help create a good structure that requires less corrective pruning as they mature.

In contrast, older or mature trees might need more regular attention to remove deadwood, manage size, and maintain safety, especially in populated urban environments. It's important to note that over-pruning can be harmful to mature trees. Therefore, it's advisable to remove no more than 25% of a tree's canopy at one time.

When Not to Prune

As a rule of thumb, trees should not be pruned during the fall or early winter. The fungi that cause decay in trees are more prevalent during this time, and wounds take longer to heal, leaving the tree vulnerable for a longer period.

It's also recommended to avoid pruning during extreme heat. High temperatures can cause trees to become stressed, which can affect their overall health and ability to heal.

Professional Pruning

Proper pruning is a skill that comes with knowledge and experience. It's not merely a process of cutting branches. Understanding the tree species, its health, and the best pruning methods to promote healthy growth is critical.

Hence, if you're uncertain about when or how to prune your trees, consider seeking advice from a certified arborist. They are equipped with the requisite knowledge and expertise to help you make the right decision. They can also conduct a thorough evaluation of your trees and recommend the best course of action.

The perfect time for pruning trees in your area of Sydney is dependent on a combination of factors such as tree species, health, and specific goals. While the general guideline recommends late winter and early spring for most trees, understanding the lifecycle of your tree can provide more accurate timing.

In essence, pruning can be seen as a form of preventive maintenance for both young and mature plants. Many problems may be prevented by pruning correctly during the formative years for a tree or after planting a shrub.

But keep in mind that incorrect pruning can do more harm than good. Therefore, when in doubt, always reach out to a professional for assistance. The health of your trees and the aesthetic value they bring to your landscape is well worth the extra effort.

[massivetyphoonblizzard]

The Evolution of cereal milk cbd

Getting The Cereal Milk Weed Strain Information To Work

Table of ContentsA Biased View of Cereal Milk Marijuana Strain InformationCereal Milk Cannabis Strain - Marijuana Strain With High Thc - QuestionsThe Ultimate Guide To Cereal Milk Weed Strain Information3 Easy Facts About Is Cereal Milk Strain Cookies' Best Strain? DescribedThe Definitive Guide for Cereal Milk Cannabis Strain - Cereal Milk ReviewCereal Milk Strain - Full Info & Reviews - TruthsThe Of Cereal Milk Marijuana Strain Information

Therefore, it is actually not unusual to find individuals and also clinics describing it as the Cereal as well as Milk stress where it is actually sold (cereal runtz strain review). Biscuits obtained the grain milk flavor by crossing Y Lifestyle and also Snowman tensions. This combination likewise means that the tension, although potent, supplies a well balanced mix of results.

Grain Dairy debuted in California in 2019 and also was cultivated by Cookies Fam through going across Y Lifestyle as well as Snowman. These are various other much older pressures from the prominent marijuana brand. frosted runtz. This pressure was made by Biscuits when they intercrossed Cherry Pie with their GSC genes - ice pie strain leafly. It resides in the exact same descent as Birthday party Covered, at times classified as Wedding Covered.

Having said that, it is a sativa-dominant phenotype. The tension is preferred for its own creative thinking as well as mood-boosting abilities. Given That Grain Dairy is actually yet to hit dispensary racks throughout the nation, it is going to be an even though before seeds are offered for producers. blue razz strain. Hence, our company will certainly need to stand by to observe how producers will use it to develop youngster (by-product) strains with the qualities that individuals love.

The Main Principles Of Cereal Milk Strain - Full Info & Reviews

Most of it is acquired from its own culture, predicting that it will develop to intermediate measurements and deal respectable turnouts. Both moms and dad stress are actually understood victors for hydro and also soil-grown - cake mix strain allbud. They generally generate in between twelve as well as fourteen ozs per square meter, about the exact same quantity that Grain Milk must create.

Hence, you ought to be actually watchful if you intend to plant the inlet exterior. On The Whole, Grain Dairy is expected to take 9 to ten full weeks to floral when expanded inside. At maturity, the weeds are going to have large heart-shaped nugs along with mint and also olive environment-friendly tones. Yellowish tones likewise appear, and the buds have tons of chilly trichomes that offer them the appeal of a crystallized glucose layer - milk dud strain.

This quality arises from the pressure's Biscuit as well as Cherry Cake forefathers, which provide it a fruity account with an added flavor. Cigarette smokers additionally enjoy berries, sweet fruits, and iced grain milk (unicorn milk strain leafly). The tension tastes equally properly as it scents; think about its own taste as creamy dairy with fruity berries - ice cream runtz strain allbud.

An Unbiased View of Cereal Milk Marijuana Strain Information & Reviews

Rather, it urges activity with an energizing increase without the anxiety-inducing premiums of sativa strains. This means that Grain Dairy can easily be eaten at any moment in the day or even at evening. The well balanced higher ought to be actually a specific fave one of artists as it offers a mellow experience that opens up the thoughts's imaginative channels as well as just enough power to maintain it. candy milk strain.

It also works for various other tasks. The moms and dad strains function properly to create an across-the-board hype that kicks back the body system while at the same time strengthening concentration. As well as maybe the most ideal portion of it all is that the adventure isn't short-lived; Cereal Dairy's wonderful effects last hours at a time as well as won't leave you with a completely dry mouth (tropicana cherry strain).

Some can easily likewise be deduced through examining the tension's Terpene account. Cereal Dairy has actually tested high in Myrcene, Pinene, Limonene, and Caryophyllene. Myrcene is in charge of the comforting as well as relaxing results that produce the tension helpful for depression and also anxiousness - cereal milk rhythm. Meanwhile, Pinene thwart pain as well as swelling dued to other health conditions.

The 5-Second Trick For Is Cereal Milk Strain Cookies' Best Strain?

The bodily impacts, alternatively, are actually calming and calming, yet without sleep or sedation. At 25% THC, Grain Dairy is actually thought about strong and it is actually greatest to eat in small amounts (cereal milk 2 strain). Grain Milk doesn't have specifically unfavorable results. Nonetheless, it is actually certainly not without the all as well popular impacts of Hybrid stress, like dry out eye as well as cottonmouth.

Some consumers have actually likewise reported light confusion, anxieties, and forgetfulness. You might also misplace opportunity, yet this will simply take place if you eat big quantities of the stress. Thus, you need to consider your section just before consuming to stay away from taking extra than wanted. On The Whole, Cereal Dairy is actually a strain that provides the most effective qualities of sativa as well as indica in an excellent mix, mouth-watering and also wonderful aroma - mother's milk strain effects.

However, for today, only those on the West Shoreline reach experience what the strain delivers. New Bros has right now formally partnered along with Packwoods, Runtz, and D8 to deliver you Runtz Pens, D8 Markers and we have actually restocked our principal compilation.

The Definitive Guide for Cereal Milk - Hybrid Cannabis Review, Cbd, Thc, Terpenes

When it concerns consuming the milk out of your cereal dish, folks usually tend to have quite polarized opinions. However, when it involves the strange strain termed Grain Dairy, almost every person provides a primary promotion. Reported to be actually reproduced in The golden state by unfamiliar masterminds, this well balanced strain is actually frequently taken pleasure in on idle weekend times for the suitable mix of delight and leisure.

Marijuana aficionados could think that Cereal Dairy is actually the best bud as well as our experts would not condemn you if you intended to increase it yourself - pirate milk. Unfortunately, that doesn't appear like a sensible alternative right now or even at any sort of opportunity down the road. Some believe that the buddy is grown through Cookies Fam, and while that has actually never been completely validated, it's probably that this limited-production strain will be maintained under padlock and also passkey. thc cereal milk.

Whether you desire to consume alcohol the dairy from your cereal dish or otherwise is actually completely your prerogative, but any marijuana fan would certainly be actually insane to skip the chance to enjoy Cereal Dairy. Bear in mind that your private tolerance will certainly direct when it's best to appreciate this stress, yet a single thing's for certain if you adore fruity flavors as well as well balanced results, you're in for a large delight. cereal milk weed efectos.

Examine This Report about Is Cereal Milk Strain Cookies' Best Strain?

This info is actually sourced coming from our readers and also is actually not an alternative to professional clinical assistance. Look for the advise of a health professional before utilizing marijuana for a medical condition.

Grain Milk through Berner's Cookies measures up to the buzz. The aroma as well as taste are actually correct delivering childhood years moments back and also memories of this early morning for those adults who still eat grain It tries sweet and also luscious with understated fruity notes. I mored than happy to find Berner step off of the hype train and not have this Ice cream based. cereal milk strain cannabiotix.

Cereal Milk pot might be actually the technique out for you if you have actually been experiencing something that calls for a little additional ride. Recognizing your marijuana might provide you the concentration you need to go via your checklist easily. A flawless blend of its parent tensions, the Cereal Dairy impact is regularly identified as an all-pervasive buzz.

An Unbiased View of Cereal Milk Strain Information, Reviews & More

It provides those with sturdy electricity asks for an improvement of electricity while avoiding anxiety or fear, maintaining their thoughts alert, and also discharging pressure in body system locations, featuring junctions and also muscles. It will definitely look like your mind's sharpness and focus are actually enhanced when the higher embed in as well as your mind shoots up to brand new heights. cereal.milk.

There may not be any specifically harmful impacts of Cereal Milk. However, it still possesses several of the traditional edge effects of crossbreed stress, like cottonmouth and also completely dry eyes. Furthermore, the grain bowl does not provide you a strenuous high. For That Reason, Cereal Dairy might be better made use of carefully by starting individuals as well as those vulnerable to cannabis.

Berries, sweet fruits, and also icy Grain Milk are actually other favorites one of tobacco smokers. Some may match up the pressure's taste to luscious milk along with delightful berries; it samples specifically as great as it stinks. The flavor, however, possesses a little bit of a lot less plant based spice than the fragrance - purple cereal milk. Generally, though, there are actually no tastes in Grain Milk that are actually therefore potent in order to confuse your taste receptors.

[steve0discusses]

Yugioh S5 Ep 19: Yugi and the Only Neck Accessory He Didn’t Really Want to Wear

Been busy! Hopefully stuff will open up soon as I’m taking a hiatus on a different quarantine project and will be finishing painting the entire roof of my car this week? One can hope. Sanding the rust off the whole top of a car takes a long time it turns out?

Also, fun Yugioh fact, I recently painted a book cover for an author who is older so she’s never seen the show, and she looked at my tumblr, saw my Duke Devlin fanart and was like “That’s him. That’s my main character. OMG. You captured him perfectly!” and I was like “Ma’am that is Duke Devlin, hence the single dice earring on his lobes there, but we can work with this.” and now a spiritual Duke Devlin is on the cover of a Wuxia-style fantasy trilogy on the Vella. Had to give him a top knot and delete the eyeliner for Wuxia reasons but uh, that’s just Duke.

So long story short, fanart can get you work, don’t even worry about posting that stuff online because most people don’t even know it’s fanart anyway and older ladies freakin love it.

Back in Yugioh, the team was doing their best to navigate a map through the woods and they do about as well as they normally do.

And inside Tristan lifted up the floorboards and was like “I found the only way out, this is it, this is the only way.”

And they ended up in something that has a color scheme I would actually associate with a jungle. Finally. We have finally left California (in order to go to another Hell.)

Youknow, when we went to California, we visited Hell, and when we went to India, we also took a stop at the nearest death destination. There’s just so much death on this show and sometimes I forget because there’s been a ghost in our party for so freakin long it’s been normalized.

(read more death imagery under the cut)

Joey freaks out at a flock of crows and reveals in this episode something I never realized about him before.

Like I’m not always the perfect observer as I’m sure you’ve noticed, but I love that this is canon for probably only this episode, but I will never forget it for the entirety of this series.

You go on hating birds, Joey.

Bro was like “Maybe it’s a deep cut about Mai Valentine because she’s a harpy lady” but eh...pretty sure we spent like an entire season of Joey telling us that Mai was a good experience? Would be incredibly funny if immediately after all of S4, Joey was like “You know what? Screw Mai, guys.”

So my thoughts...it’s probably just a literal bird experience. Like I had a friend who hated deer because once she went to a petting zoo, got some pellets to feed the deer, but her finger was sticking up, so when the deer came over to nibble on some pellets her finger went up it’s nose by accident. She was so disgusted by this event that was entirely her fault, that she brought up how much she hated deer basically whenever we saw one.

So like...maybe Joey fed a bird wrong at a petting zoo. I can see him getting bit by a parrot because he was too Joey Wheeler.

But now that we’re in a graveyard neighborhood, Pharaoh decides to hop out because there’s a lot of ghosts here and he needs to practice socializing with his peers.

So that’s just a Yugioh monster doing the ostrich dance, right? Like this is a meme from like 2010 but on Yugioh in 2003(4?)

Good to see the Ostrich dance here in the land before Vine.

So they pull out their Pokemon to do some antics, Tea looked like she was about to do something useful, and Yami does a yump across time and space to get her as far away from playing (not)cards as quickly as possible and y’all...sure was a position these animators animated.

Holy crap.

And I was going off about that scene last season where they woke up in the same bed like...

...have these two been together this entire time? Like together together?

They’re like...way more comfortable than you’d figure they’d be considering Yugi nearly passes out every time he gets a hug. But Yami just like....How long has this been going on? As long as Joey’s fear of birds?

Like obviously this show would never cover what the hell Yugi may be thinking about this overreaching move here, because we’re gonna gloss right over that, and just run away up a flight of stairs. No one mentions this ever again. Which is mind blowing for an anime to do. I think in most anime I watch, the kids would be like “ahh ahhhh I bumped into a booooob!” like it does for I want to say every other episode of My Hero Academia. But in Yugioh, they saw that low hanging fruit and they were like “we expect a higher level of maturity out of our audience. Now here’s a fleet of ostrich dancing tree monsters with faces for crotches.”

They decided to sprint up this flight of stairs, and it enough of a slope to deter the monsters who are only unbalanced weird legs.

I want us to take a moment and admire this background painting. I can’t unsee the rocks that are all the same size, just piled on top of eachother. Did Alexander the Great just plop rocks here--or was the mountain made up of tons of similarly shaped boulders?

Like there’s a lot of nice bg’s in this arc, don’t get me wrong, but this one...I’m just trying to wrap my head around the logic of it.

At the top, they meet a pantheon, that is immediately blocked by this wall, because if this arc had a tagline, it’s “Yugi gets inconvenienced every 4 seconds.”

Bro was like “Clearly they would have pushed it over if Tea wasn’t slacking off” and like...she is actually. Look at her. Only used one hand? Slacker.

Joey was disappointed he couldn’t push over a massive wall, and the team decided not to analyze how much Joey Wheeler thinks of his own strength and instead fixate on these statues.

Usually in anthro characters they kinda look birdlike but act human. But what about an anthro that’s just a bird? Like human torso, but can turn his head 180 degrees? Yugioh made me ask this question.

And then Joey was like “wait, there may be a solution that isn’t just to use brute strength!”

Youknow it is a bummer that Kaiba couldn’t witness Joey own a dragon while he himself only has a robot jet dragon. Although, the jet is probably faster, stronger and overall...better than this baby dragon. It would have been great for Kaiba to witness Joey under-utilize this dragon and forget he has it for like huge swatches of the episode.

And then Grandpa pulled some body horror out of nowhere.

Wow.

I mean that is really gross.

I guess Grandpa can’t use Blue eyes, because Kaiba ripped it up, Grandpa can’t use Exodia because Weevil tossed it off a boat, and grandpa can’t use the card that’s just a building because...it’s a building.

So instead Grandpa has a bunch of meat and bones that look like something out of Doom. It’s probably from a more obscure Konami property, but I forget which.

I’ve seen Tristan hold back Joey in this hold, first time it’s been Tea.

So much shipping in this episode, it’s wild.

It’s also wild how low my standards are for what could possibly be shipping when it comes to Yugioh because of how freakin tepid all of these characters are, which as I’ve brought up before, I really don’t mind.

So Yugi decides that because Grandpa was folding his arms like one monster and it made a gem light up or something, to just do the video game thing and use the giant ass statues as clues.

Why was this arc not a video game? Like parts of it really feel like it was meant to be.

So Yugi falls down a hole, where the walls cave in like it’s that dumpster in Star Wars but like...it barely phases him.

Also...Yugi might be able to see in the dark. It’s never been brought up but like...the more I think about it...has Yugi ever struggled to see without the lights on?

After Joey disappoints everyone, he confronts death.

And Pharaoh and Yugi decide to solve the puzzle of “how do I get out of this trap dungeon room” which, honestly, is probably what they’re doing every time they hang out in the brain pyramid.

So they summon their mascot monster, and surprisingly the show decided its ability to fly cannot help them out here.

Kuriboh manages to become enough of a doormat to push Yami up to the stone and they end up in a set of weird cuts that ended in this?

Like seriously it was like flashes of light and then they were just...up here like this.

Hey like...

Alexander the Great, my man...

Were you planning to put that stone in the middle of a exhaust vent hoping someone would touch it? Because there’s no way anyone would rationally have done that. You would need to fly to do it. This is the world’s worst DM.

Like Yugioh pulls a lot of fantasy nonsense but this arc is a lot more like a “it’s a kid’s show, just go with it.” arc than most of them. It’s not a bad vibe, necessarily, it’s just not the vibe I’m used to.

So once I witnessed maybe the most boring conversation I’ve ever witnessed about corn (this was on a twitch stream, by the way, a guy was playing an interesting game, and then a guest came on and started talking about corn and plants for 2 hours) and they would not shut up about how all taxonomy is wrong because there are no such thing as trees and how all animals are labelled incorrectly, and then they started comparing it to like all sorts of mushrooms and phytoplankton as you would if you clearly got a little bit high before dumping your corn knowledge on a twitch stream.

Anyway, after that bizarre experience I suffered so I could learn how to play an obscure video game, I think I can safely say, that while I know everyone here thinks a bird can’t be a dog. If you’re a high biologist: a bird is absolutely a dog. Apparently you can just do that if you’re the most boring biologist alive and no one will argue with you because to do that would involve talking to you. We’ll just say a bird is a dog and no one can fight me or I will talk about the corn book that this guest on this twitch chat was thinking about renting from the library about the different types of corn mutations inherent in freakin Indiana. Therefore, Joey’s fear of birds and dogs is same.

So they use Dark Magician to save them from the statues, and Yugi busts into the pantheon again because they got to open this casket before a time limit that I kind of forgot about, tbh.

And inside the casket, is...this thing!

(enjoy this line on the bottom of the image I don’t feel like fixing it)

And you may say to yourself...it looks like it’s just floating in mid-air, that’s silly, and so I want to introduce you to the next panel where you can see that it is...quite literally...just floating in the air like a video game.

and it just slurps itself onto Yugi before he can be like “nonono.”

Wasn’t there some horror movie where you were stuck in some sort of body brace that slowly tortures you (was that Saw?) This has that vibes. Like man that looks uncomfortable to wear over a jacket and two belts and a collar that is another belt.

That and I...I gotta appreciate that Yugi popped his collar while wearing body armor and chunky necklace. What 00′s fashion appreciation right there.

Bit like...this isn’t breathable, right? Like Yugi’s gonna finally take this thing off and his jacket will just be completely soaked in sweat?

Anyway, that’s it for this post, next week we’ll see if Yugi can walk through a doorway in that thing.

Also, I can’t bring up the ostrich dance without sharing the vines of my generation

[ladykissingfish]

Under the Mistletoe with the Akatsuki // Part Nine // Pein (Nagato)

Leader. Never in a million years did Nagato Uzumaki believe he had it in him for be a leader, and especially not one of a group of S-ranked criminals like the ones that comprised his Akatsuki. But perhaps he really wasn’t; after all, save for Konan, none of them had even met him before. All they knew about him was Pein, the body that he animated and controlled through his chakra. Yet despite all he and his group have accomplished, the nagging feeling never leaves him ... that Yahiko would have done a much better job than Nagato. It’s one of the main reasons that Nagato fashioned his main Pein-body after his old friend; to try and infuse some of Yahiko’s wisdom and charisma into his own leadership style. One of the things Yahiko often stressed was the importance of having people around you that you could trust, and depend on. In short - friends. Aside from Konan, Nagato doesn’t truly consider anyone in this organization to be his ‘friend’ ... rather, he’s come to think of the group as a whole of being his family. And apparently families played games with each other, hence why he (as Pein) agrees to this mistletoe game now.

Kisame

“Good evening, Leader.” Kisame was by far one of the more desirable members that Nagato had strived to bring into his group. Mature, experienced with battle and ninjutsu, and one of the fabled Seven Swordsmen of the Mist. In any given situation, in any conflict between members of the group, Kisame will most often be the voice of reason. Nagato chose to pair him with the young but mature beyond his years Itachi, believing they’d have much to learn from one another, and he was correct. Out of all the duos, theirs was probably the most stable (and certainly the least problematic). Despite being both tall and intimidating, the half-shark had a surprisingly gentle, almost shy nature to him when one caught him in a one on one situation, as was the case now. Kisame walks up to Pein but seems unable to take the initiative, so Pein does so himself. He puts one hand on Kisame’s shoulder, leans up slightly, and kisses his cheek. Kisame blushes and grins, before going back to his room for the evening.

Sasori

Unbeknownst to the others, aside from Konan, Sasori is the only member of the Akatsuki that knows that Pein isn’t who (or what) he presents himself to be. After all, spending years hidden inside a puppet body gave one a little leeway into seeing into (or perhaps seeing past) others’ true selves. But Sasori understands Nagato’s need to conceal his real body; in fact, he’s even helped him a few times. He’s travelled with Konan before to meet the actual Nagato, when the latter came down with an illness that Konan wasn’t sure how to treat. Sasori used his extensive knowledge of medical procedures to help Nagato, and since then, the two had become good friends. He also gave him valuable advice (again from his own experience of using chakra to control multiple puppets at once) to Nagato in how to more effectively maneuver his Six Paths of Pein bodies during battle, even helping Nagato to tweak them to better control their movements. Sasori shows Nagato (and ultimately, Pein) the same respect that he would a fellow master puppeteer. He approaches Pein now, in his own body. Pein leans down and kisses his cheek, and the two nod at each other before Sasori returns to his own room.

Itachi

“He murdered his entire clan in one evening.” “Are you sure?” “Well, all but his younger brother. But I’m sure if he ever got the chance —“ Nagato still remembers the conversation he had with Konan, the day before they brought Itachi into the Akatsuki. Nagato had been against it at first, believing that one who could commit such callous atrocities against his own clan and family would no doubt have trouble turning against a group of people that were strangers to him. But Itachi pleasantly surprised Nagato, with how calm, and quiet, and kind he was. He often forgets how young Itachi is, considering he speaks and acts like a man decades older. But still ... there was a sadness that could be felt whenever Itachi was in the room, tangible even to someone who’s “real” body was quite far away, like Nagato’s was. When Itachi comes to him, the Pein body reaches out and pulls the boy into a hug. Itachi seems surprised, but whether out of respect to the leader or because he truly needed it, he lets the embrace happen. The two stand there for longer than seems feasible, until Pein breaks it by gently kissing Itachi’s forehead. Itachi steps back, gives Pein a smile (which turns back the clock even more and makes Itachi seem like a child) and goes back to his room.

Deidara

Nagato felt real, valid concern when bringing the 15 year old Deidara into his group. Besides being the youngest, besides having that volatile temper and wanton pleasure in causing chaos and destruction ... the kid was beautiful. An odd word for a male, perhaps, but it was the most fitting term for him. In the Akatsuki it was more or less made clear that Konan was off-limits in terms of things like that, but Deidara ... with his long silky hair, big blue eyes, soft skin ... what was to stop one (or possibly ALL) of these older (and likely stronger) members from attempting to — but Nagato was lucky, in that everyone exhibited more self-control than he gave them credit for. And pairing him first with the older Sasori and then with the wily Tobi had seemed to be good choices, as well. One taught him maturity, and the other, patience. Although sometimes — “Oi, Leader ... can you talk to Kakuzu for me?” “For what?” “He won’t let me have an advance on my pay, because he says I’m just going to waste it on ‘my stupid clay’, hm!” “I do not interfere with the financial decisions of my treasurer, Deidara.” “But —“ Pein kisses his forehead and says, quietly, “Learn to exercise restraint when it comes to your artistic endeavors, Deidara.” Deidara grumbles as he walks away, and Pein smiles and shakes his head as he watches him go.

Kakuzu

“Pein. No matter what Deidara said to you, you won’t convince me to give him an advance on his pay. That boy is already three weeks into his money, and our budget simply won’t allow —“ “Do not fear, Kakuzu. I don’t intend to step on your toes regarding our finances.” Never in Nagato’s life has he met anybody quite so concerned with money as Kakuzu. He was strict not only with his own money, but every other member’s, as well. While Nagato found this to be a character flaw at first, now, he saw Kakuzu’s thriftiness and frugal tendencies as being a God-send. It was only because of him that they were able to move from hideout to hideout, to put food on the table, to buy clothes and weapons and any number of things that the group needed to survive. But his finance-savvy ways weren’t even the most impressive thing about him; it was the fact that he dealt with Hidan, day in and day out, and had not been driven to madness. The older man walks up to Pein now, lowers his mask, and delivers a light kiss to the cheek. Pein nods and watches as he leaves, noting, as he often did, his cold Kakuzu’s skin is. Nagato can feel it through Pein’s sensors; standing close to Kakuzu is much like standing in front of an open grave. He often felt that he should suggest redesigning Kakuzu’s Akatsuki robe to make it warmer, but Nagato knows that this suggestion would be rapidly rejected.

Zetsu

On the day that it is Pein’s turn under the mistletoe, Zetsu is nowhere to be found. Nagato knows where he is, of course; traveling through the earth at the speed of sound, going to scout out an enemy territory before the Akatsuki makes a move on it. Zetsu and his infiltration skills have helped Nagato countless times in the past, providing valuable intel on targets and mapping out the most problem-free routes for the rest of the group to take on missions. Still, though; there’s something about the plant-man that gave Nagato the slighter touch of unease. Being near Zetsu, even through the barrier of Pein, gave Nagato the feeling of being inches away from a wild animal. Hearing him speak was like listening to a dog that suddenly begins speaking in a human tongue. Nagato is very glad that Pein does not have to kiss this individual, and in fact hopes that his turn will end before Zetsu makes his inevitable return.

Tobi

Tobi, Tobi, Tobi ... such a confusing young man. Such a surprising young man. Many months ago, the Pein-body walked into Tobi’s room to retrieve him for something, and happened to catch him sleeping. Nagato was curious and made his artificial body approach the side of the bed that Tobi’s face was on ... but all Nagato was met with was darkness. A solid, blurred-out black where the boy’s face should have been. Nagato thought that perhaps something was malfunctioning in the Pein body’s ocular region ... but everything else was clear as a bell. Did Tobi have some kind of exterior defense mechanism set into place that would bar Pein, specifically Pein, from seeing his actual face? And if that was the case, then WHY? What exactly was he hiding?? It made Nagato nervous, but he never let this on to Tobi. “Pein-sama, Pein-sama! Is it Tobi’s turn for a kissy?!” Pein nods and Tobi approaches him, slides his mask halfway off ... and again all Pein can make out is blackness. He can feel his cheek being kissed, but his vision doesn’t return to 100% until Tobi’s mask is fully back in place. “Thanks, Pein-sama!”, Tobi says; and is it Nagato’s imagination or is there a touch of smugness to his voice? Well, regardless, the kid is leaving, and a Nagato can put him out of his mind once more.

Hidan

“I’ve had to kiss every single one of you fucks, including the old geezer and the orange idiot. Now I’ve gotta slobber with the boss too?? What’s next; are we are jumping into bed and having a group fuck?!” Nagato hadn’t rolled his eyes in many years (and rolling Pein’s eyes would have been an unbecoming gesture for a leader), but hearing Hidan speak always made Nagato want to break this self-imposed rule. With his additional bodies, his Rinnegan, his seemingly unlimited chakra and his fabled Uzumaki clan endurance, Nagato considers himself to be an earthbound God. But then this kid, this foul-mouthed violent crusader, comes into the group speaking about HIS God, Lord Jashin, and flaunting his (admittedly enviable) gift of immortality. From the very beginning, Hidan made it clear that offering sacrifices to his God was his main priority; and the kid wasn’t lying. It’s always been Pein’s (Nagato’s) mandate that as long as one completed their assigned mission, then they would be free to do as the my liked in their spare time. But Hidan’s preferred “hobby” left even someone as war-weary and hardened as Nagato feeling a bit queasy, in the pit of his stomach. “Come, Hidan.” Hidan visibly balks at being given an order; but he’s never love hesitated to obey the Leader. He goes to Pein and, after Pein studies his face, receives a kiss on the nose. The gesture is so light and whimsical that it leaves Hidan blushing and flustered, as evidenced by his leaving without uttering a single swear word.

Konan

The kiss between Konan and Pein is ... disappointingly short. Surprising, considering how close the two of them are, and how much Pein seems to care about her. But it’s a very quick forehead peck, and then both Pein and Konan retire to their rooms. The Pein-body shuts down in his own room, but Konan is getting dressed. It’s a somewhat lengthy journey, especially for this time of night, but one Konan is very familiar with. She comes every single day, after all, after everyone else is asleep or preoccupied for the evening. The old cave is so far into the woods, and from the outside seems abandoned, but ... “Nagato? I’m here.” Nagato turns his head and, although he’s happy to see her, can’t help but sigh. “You’re soaking wet.” Konan uses her cloak to wipe her face, telling him it’s not a big deal, just a little drizzle outside... but it is to Nagato. Trapped like this, a prisoner of his body and his hatred and pain ... anybody else would have walked out and left him years ago. But Konan, no matter what, she stayed by his side, and showed him more caring and comfort than Nagato felt he deserved. “I brought you some beef and curry rice tonight,” Konan said, now uncovering a small bowl. “It’s still warm.” She moves into position to feed him, and as she does, she quietly tells him little tidbits about her day. It’s solely through Konan that Nagato has any sense of the outside world at all, or any REAL idea about what the members of the Akatsuki are actually like. And he’s grateful to her. He’s grateful to her for so many — “Konan?” She looks up from where she’d been tidying up. “Yes?” “I’m so sorry.” She stops and looks at him, head tilted. “Sorry? What are you sorry about?” “I’m sorry that you’re not married, I’m sorry that you don’t have children, or a family, I’m sorry that you go from hideout to hideout and village to village and all you see is the same pain we saw when we were kids. And I’m sorry that things are only this way because of me. I couldn’t save Yahiko, and I’m destroying you, and any chance at happiness you could have had. I never meant for things to be this way. I’m —“ but Konan’s arms are around him before he can finish his sentence. “You’re a goddamn idiot,” she mumbles, her voice slightly shaky. “Yahiko dying wasn’t your fault, and my life — my life is full, and despite what you may believe, I’m happy, Nagato. This Akatsuki you’ve created; you’ve done two things. You’re fulfilling Yahiko’s dream, and you’ve given me, US, a family. So stop with this nonsense, okay?” “But I —“, and Konan interrupts him again, this time with a soft kiss on the cheek. Her lips breathe warmth and comfort into his chilled skin. “You’re the most important person on this earth to me, and I love you,” she murmurs as she pulls away, a smile on her face. “But I swear if you don’t cheer up, you’re not getting any of this dessert I made.” A pause, and then, with a smirk reminiscent of the shy boy he once was, “I’ll only cheer up if it’s something I like.” “Strawberry pie.” Nagato gives Konan an even bigger smile, to which she replies “That’s better”; and the two laugh. He feels like a weight has been lifted off of his heart. After dessert, he tries to mentally prepare himself for her leaving again ...but to his surprise she pulls a blanket from her satchel spreading it out neatly along the ground. “You’re staying tonight?” “I’m staying.” “Good. I love you, too, by the way.” “I know.” Before bed she spends a good deal of time gently brushing out his hair, telling him jokes and stories, the same that she used to do with him and Yahiko when they were all children, during those many long, cold nights when hunger or anxiety kept them awake. Neither is present now, but the goodness of the feeling remains the same. After awhile they both fall asleep, and for once their dreams are calm and peaceful.

[thors-daughtersthoughts]

Common plantain

Plantago major

Aka. White man's foot, broad leafed plantain, greater plantain

The plantain is native to Eurasia. This plant likes waste spaces, lawns and roadsides. It may be one of the first European plants to colonize North America.(hence the name "white man's footprint")

In Latin America it was used to treat cancer. It's was also used as a astringent for ulcers, bleeding, bloody urine, diarrhea, and fevers. Bruised leaves were used on slight wounds, sores, spider and insect bites.

The fibers of mature plants can be used to make cords, fishing line, or sutures. Some common plantain are grown as ornamental plants.

Plantains are edible. Young leaves can be eaten as a salad green. Older leaves are eaten in stews. Seeds were used as a flour substitute or extender.

It looks like a lot of other plantains.

Sources

Wikipedia Plantago major

Peterson Field Guide to Medicinal Plants and Herbs of Eastern and Central North America 3rd edition by Steven Foster and James A Duke

Photo taken by SallyA in Portland ny

[darisu-chan]

Kaien vs Ichigo: A Memories in the Rain Analysis, Part 1

Hello

It’s me again, back with my bs lmao

I finally finished the mini arc of Memories in the Rain pt. 2 and, as I’ve been sort of discussing certain stuff that’s happened in Bleach as I re-read the chapters, I decided I needed to talk about MITR as a whole. If you’ve been following my posts, I didn’t really analyze the first part. I saved it to compare it with the second part. I also thought that instead of just saying my thoughts as I have been doing thus far, I’d go the extra mile and truly analyze both parts, specifically comparing Kaien and Ichigo.

So, sometime ago, I wrote this post about how it bothers me how people compare Kaien and Ichigo as being the same, and using that to establish IchiRuki. When, honestly, you don’t need to. Ichigo and Rukia’s relationship stands on its own. In fact, it is so strong that, years after the ending, people keep being fascinated by IR. The LA was centered on their relationship as well. And it’s still the Ichigo and Rukia show, thank you very much.

And though I made some good points in that post, I decided to further explore Kaien and Ichigo, as well as the events of both MITR and how that relates to Ichigo and Rukia.

It’s probably been done many times before, but I’ve never analyzed them in much depth, so here we go.

The first part will soley be about Ichigo and Kaien as individuals. On the second part, I’ll finally explore MITR

1. The Shiba Gene

So, as we all know, Ichigo and Kaien look like each other physically, and in Everything But the Rain we finally found out the reason why: they are cousins. This put a stop to all the “Ichigo is Kaien reborn” theories people liked to come up with back in the day.

Now, in the story, this resemblance was pointed out by Byakuya and even Ukitake, to an extent. Which means Kaien was designed to look like Ichigo on purpose to further draw parallels between them. What I mean to say is that this is a seed that was planted in the readers’ minds, and as such, comparing both guys was done on purpose.

Interestingly enough, neither Kukaku nor Ganju are ever seen to believe Ichigo looks like their older brother.

In EBTR we see Isshin as a young man, and we can see how Isshin, Ichigo and Kaien resemble each other, meaning the Shiba gene is a strong one, and, if Ichigo had actually stayed in SS, that same resemblance could have been used as a way for him to claim that part of his heritage, but I digress.

We are all aware they look like each other because they are family, so we don’t need to go deep into detail in that aspect. Now the true question is, just how similar are they to each other?

Physically speaking, there are a few noticable differences, like hair and eye color. Kaien’s hair is longer and there’s the fact Kaien has very long eyelashes, as Kukaku and Ganju have. He’s also taller.

Although key differences, they are not enough to negate their similarities. Hell, Ichigo does look more similar to Kaien than Ganju, his actual brother.

But there’s something very important that sets them apart: Kaien always carries himself as if he didn’t have a care in the world. When we’ve seen Kaien, he’s always able to smile freely. Sure, he also scowls, gets upset, and the like, but he goes back to smiling. This is something Ichigo hasn’t been able to do since his mother died. Hell, there’s a whole chapter about that (Can’t Smile Don’t Blame). There are very few times in which Ichigo actually smiles, and all of them are short-lived. In fact, whenever he’s tried to give big smiles, they seem off, as seen when he smiled to Orihime back at the beginning of MITR and later on, in the Lost Agent Arc, when he smiled at Yuzu. 

Even when Rukia has a flashback of Kaien while looking at Ichigo, their smiles look very different:

Ichigo more often than not smiles through his eyes, while Kaien tends to smile with his eyes closed:

Although brash and arrogant as well, Kaien is also more mature. He can go from joking around to having deep conversations with Rukia. Ichigo, as a teenager, has yet to mature and will become more and more like a grown up as time passes by. At this point in the manga, he really isn’t there yet. Now, this will be important later on.

In short, even though they look very similar, they carry themselves with different auras. Kaien is more of a free-spirit, while Ichigo is a person who seems to carry the weight of the world on his shoulders. 

2. Prodigies

Ichigo, as the MC of a shounen manga, is obviously special. From the very first moment, we know he’s not like everyone else. He’s able to see spirits, which is not the norm. And then Rukia informs us his reiatsu is too powerful for a normal human.

And as time goes by, as he keeps fighting hollows, he grows exponentially. 

When Urahara trains him, he realizes that, which is why he tells Yoruichi that if there is someone who can achieve bankai in 3 days, is him.

As the story goes on, we learn that Ichigo is even more special, as he is also part Quincy and Hollow. But he also has very impressive skills when it comes to swordmanship, shunpo, and the like. 

What is more relevant is Ichigo’s ability to grow at a fast rate, always learning from his mistakes. 

And although he was never taught how to be a Shinigami in the traditional way, we can see how he surpassed his peers.

Now, although Kaien is not as special as Ichigo, we learn from Ganju that, for Shinigami standards, Kaien’s very impressive:

Hisagi, for example, failed the final exam numerous times. Rukia says she barely passed the entrace exam. Finishing the curriculum in two years is a great achievement. And the fact that he made VC in 5 years means a lot. It took Renji, let’s say, around 35 years to be promoted to VC. And Renji was in the special class at the Academy.

People like Ichigo and Kaien are not the norm. They are very skilled and special individuals. Might be because of their genes (it’s never explicitly said, but they might come from a long line of Shinigami), or just because they were gifted with those powers, but the point is these characteristics set them apart as more powerful than the rest.

3. Brash, Rule-breaking, Arrogant

The words above can be used to describe both Ichigo and Kaien, and that’s certainly Byakuya’s opinion of them.

Kaien and his siblings are not like the nobles we know. They’re certainly very different to Byakuya and the Kuchiki Clan, but they also live very differently than Soi Fon, Omaeda, the Shihouin Clan, and so on. They seem to live more like the common folk than like dignified people. Hence, Byakuya seems very against this sort of attitude, at least early on in Bleach. 

Because of being loud, less refined, brash, and with a penchant of rule-breaking, Kaien seems totally different to other nobles. However, I dare say these characteristics extrapolate what Ukitake meant in this scene:

Not anyone would be able to go against the whole Soul Society, specially if you are a Shinigami.

Byakuya was certainly not going to do any rule-breaking. As we later find out, he had even promised not to break anymore rules and was going to stick to that promise.

Renji, until confronted by Ichigo, had decided not to go against the SS.

Even Ukitake wasn’t about to start a revolution to save Rukia. It took him seeing Ichigo to decide on what to do.

Basically, only Kaien would have been upfront about his own intentions.

And what we know of Kaien is that he was the sort of guy who would break the rules when necessary. That means, that he would do the right thing. Specially when it comes to saving his peers. He even tells Rukia as much:

He might not have been the most elegant of individuals, but Kaien’s brashness and even arrogance came from the fact he had a good heart.

Now, who does exactly what Kaien would have done?

That’s right.

Ichigo.

Here the comparison of Ukitake trying to imagine what Kaien would have done is directly compared and contrasted to Ichigo, as before that scene Ichigo confronted Byakuya.

Now, Ichigo wasn’t raised as a noble. He had no idea he was one until almost the end of Bleach. But he was raised with the idea of protecting other people and of doing what is right.

We have seen him protect other people, even before he became a Shinigami (his friendship with Chad, Keigo and Mizuiru respectively reflects this, as he saved the three of them). 

Ichigo is not the kind of guy who can just do nothing while an injustice is taking place.

Ichigo has been, from the first moment we saw him, brash, rule-breaking and even arrogant, but note that from his introduction, we saw him protecting a little ghost girl. It goes to show that Ichigo would go to extremes to protect others and do what’s right. So, it’s no surprise he jumps at the chance to go to SS to save Rukia, and that he grows stronger and stronger each time to save her, as he cannot let her die. 

However, there’s a key difference.

If Kaien had been alive, he would have saved Rukia as 1) he would’ve probably figured out an execution was too hard a punishment for Rukia’s crime, 2) he told her he would always stand by her as long as they were from the same division, and 3) he wouldn’t let her just die.

But Ichigo’s reasons to save Rukia are much more complicated than that. As I’ve said in other posts, Ichigo is filled with guilt, as Rukia’s in this position because of him, firstly because she saved him by giving him her own powers to protect his family, and secondly, because Rukia got taken away to protect him as he feels he failed to protect her.

But, even then, it’s not only guilt that fuels him or the fact that he owes Rukia.

There’s the fact that Rukia is an important person to Ichigo regardless. Particularly, she is kind and good. Certainly not the type of person who deserves to die, much less because of a stupid rule.

Then, there is something else at a deeper level Ichigo doesn’t say out loud

My point with this is that Kaien and Ichigo are certainly the same type of rule-breaking people and that’s the sort of person needed to pull a stunt like saving Rukia from execution, in such a way that this person would even inspire others to help. Both guys are special in that way. However, in practice their actions come from different places. Certainly there’s a closeness Ichigo shares with Rukia due to circumstances that adds more complexity to his intent to save her and that, may I add, also fuels him to such a degree he refuses to lose. 

Which brings us to...

4. Rukia

The last main common denominator between them is no one else but Rukia, a person they both have inspired in different ways. However, the type of relationship they have with her is different.

Let’s start with Kaien:

So, their meeting takes place shortly after Rukia was adopted into the Kuchiki Clan and graduated early from the Academy. Ever since, it seems she was judged for both not really being from a noble family and from having been adopted by one. We can say that no one is looking at who Rukia truly is, but they are making assumptions about her at this point. This is isolating to Rukia, who now has to deal with a new identity and a new way of living. She’s now apart from the one person she had known most of her life to that point (Renji) and is feeling out of place.

Then, Kaien swoops in and he treats her like he would treat any other subordinate. He doesn’t treat her like a street rat, a pampered noble or even a pet. And she says it herself that having that normality is exactly what she needed. Rukia didn’t feel comfortable at home with Byakuya, but she could at least feel more at ease in her division, working under Kaien.

Their relationship was that of mentor and mentee. Later on we find out Kaien trained her in swordsmanship and probably other skills. 

But he also taught her important lessons about life:

And these are lessons Rukia will carry in her heart the whole series. Protecting others, making others feel welcomed, forming hearts with others. Rukia made hers everything that Kaien taught her. 

He’s very special in her life because Kaien was the first person to make her feel as if she belonged in her division, and even as a Shinigami.

In short, he’s acting like a parental influential, or even being the brother Byakuya failed to be at this point in time. Teaching Rukia and accepting her, so that she could feel she had a place she belonged to.

And we know that Kaien was the one to make her feel good

But here we have a power imbalance. Because Kaien is doing the teaching, he’s changing her life, but we don’t know if it’s mutual. We don’t know if Kaien was affected by Rukia’s actions and words. It’s a very unilateral situation.

Furthermore, if we go with the route of Rukia had a crush on Kaien, there’s more power imbalance and impossibilities, as we know that:

She already couldn’t be the person closest to Kaien, as Miyako existed. 

Rukia recognized Miyako as having great qualities, probably what Kaien even liked about her, and aspired to be like her:

So, Kaien and Rukia were never in a position of equality for several reasons, starting from the fact Kaien was her vice captain.

This is even exemplified when the find the hollow that killed Miyako:

Rukia acts like a subordinate, trying to be helpful, and is denied:

Finally, there’s a key aspect that I will be analyzing with more detail in another post, but Kaien is for Rukia what Masaki is for Ichigo:

The root of her trauma is that she failed to protect Kaien, who was the person who taught her so much and helped her when nobody else did. Rukia feels as if she didn’t do anything to save him from his fate:

And when Kaien became a hollow, instead of running or trying to help him, Rukia let instinct take in and we know what happens next:

And the fact she couldn’t save him is worse becase Kaien doesn’t blame her:

So Rukia ends up in a state of guilt, because she couldn’t save the one person she probably wanted to save the most.

This trauma will continue on for some time until HM, where Rukia comes to terms with what happened. However, that doesn’t change the fact that her relationship remains a one-way street.

Now, as for with Ichigo, they have a different relationship altogether. 

It is true that Rukia was Ichigo’s first teacher when it comes to Shinigami stuff, but it is not as if he never taught Rukia anything.

Their relationship is so special because they’re two sides of the same coin. The fact that one is a Shinigami and the other is a human being makes it so that they end in a relationship of equals. As Ichigo needs to learn how to be a Shinigami, Rukia has to learn how to be a human.

Even when they just tell each other their names, the panel demonstrates this equality

Even the way they’re both holding the sword symbolizes this equality:

They’re both holding it and directing it towards Ichigo due to a common goal.

The fact they also call each other by their first names is important. Rukia always used “-dono” to refer to Kaien, a term of respect, while he called her by her last name. Meanwhile, Ichigo and Rukia call each other by their first names, symbolizing they’re close, something that is even pointed out within the story.

They also grow together.

Not only does Rukia teach Ichigo about his powers and her philosophy of saving others, Ichigo keeps surprising her at every turn:

Ichigo teaches Rukia how to be human, and not in the way of how to appear human or do human things, but how to feel, how to make connections with others

We always say Rukia changed Ichigo’s world, but he had that same effect in her:

It was always a mutual thing.

A relationship so different to any other in this manga.

But the best example of how different Kaien and Ichigo’s relationships with Rukia are is the fact that Rukia doesn’t think Ichigo is like Kaien from the get go.

She’s reminded of Kaien twice:

1. When Ichigo’s fighting Grandfisher, and I’ll analyze that part in the next post.

2. When Ichigo finally appears in front of her in SS and reassures her he’s not going to die. He smiles at her and Rukia remembers Kaien’s smile. She closes her eyes due to all the emotions she’s feeling.

My best explanation as to why Rukia thinks of Kaien in that moment is, as I said before, because Kaien was also reassuring in the fact he was not gonna die, yet he did and by her hand. Rukia doesn’t want to cause Ichigo’s death and she already feels guilty about turning him into a Shinigami, Byakuya hurting him, and everything else he’s gone through to try to save her. Rukia doesn’t want Ichigo to be like Kaien and die for her sake, as she believes she’s not worthy of being saved:

This is yet another thing Ichigo and Rukia have in common, they both feel guilty for having in some way cause harm to the other. 

Because, above all else, they both want to protect the other.

The thing is, the two actually achieve it: Rukia saves Ichigo’s life in the first chapter and when Byakuya is about to kill him. While Ichigo ends up saving her from execution, making it so their relationship stays equal.

That is the beauty of IchiRuki.

It’s never unilateral, but their feelings parallel each other’s constantly.

They want to save each other and they do.

They learn from one another, and they have faith in one another.

One doesn’t take while the other receive, they both give and receive something in return.

Because, in their eyes, they are equals.

Anyway,

This is the end of this very long post.

The rest of MITR will be analyzed in a later post.

Thanks for reading!

[forever-forgotten-angel]

The Origins of a Very Special Agent

Summary: Just a fluffy curtwen oneshot I meant to finish months ago. Pure fluff. Barely any plot.

Sorry this is not under a cut, I only have mobile right now. :(

Owen rapped his knuckles against the familiar door before taking a step back, waiting patiently and in full view of the camera he knew was hidden above the door. 

It had been nearly two months since he’d last seen his partner. Until the other day, though sadly only briefly. Owen had been assigned to a mission in America, unfortunately not with Curt. But he was sent there for a full week of time, his plane home not scheduled until the end of said week. So he’d promised Curt when he had briefly passed through his agency’s headquarters that he would stop by the American agent’s house as soon as the mission was done. 

He’d had no sleep and far too much coffee but he’d gotten the mission done in just two days leaving him free for five.

He was already leaning forward to kiss Curt as the door opened, but he paused as he took in the appearance of his love. Curt was looking at him with wide eyes. His clothes were askew. There were scratches at the top of his back leading down under his shirt. There was saliva on his neck along with what looked like teeth marks. “Owen! Before you say anything, I swear it’s not what you’re thin-”

“Only you could get into a fight with a cat Curt.”

Curt’s shoulders seemed to sag with relief though his eyes gain a curious look. “How did you...I mean I was worried you would think….I know what I must look like….most people would-”

Owen cut Curt off again by dramatically rolling his eyes and sighing as he gently pulled the American agent closer to himself. “I’m a spy Curt. I would say my deductive and observational skills are far superior to that of ‘most people’ as you so elegantly put it.” He said with somewhat exaggerated smugness before his voice softened. “Besides,” He paused to give Curt a quick kiss on the lips as he’d intended earlier before continuing. “I trust you, you moron. Now do you want to tell me how the USA’s top spy got into a tussle with a cat? And lost based on your injuries.”

Curt was grinning at him as he responded with an endearing glitter of excitement clear in his eyes. “I didn’t get into a fight with her. She chose me.” Owen raised an eyebrow. “Chose you?”

“Yes. She was hiding under my car from these assholes who were throwing things at her.” Curt explained further. Owen nodded in understanding. “Mmm, did you shoot said assholes, love?” 

“That’s neither here nor there Owen, the point is she chose me. Clearly she knew I was a badass spy who would protect her, hence why she chose to hide under my car.” Curt said this as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. Owen did not have the heart or the inclination to contradict him. “Okay. So how did you get wounded then dear?”

Curt shrugged. “She did better than I expected in the bath but when I dried her off there were some tangles in her fur still and she did not appreciate me trying to get them out. You should see the sheets on my bed. Torn right down the middle.” This gave Owen pause. “Wait, that cat is here?”

“Of course! I couldn’t just leave her outside to be abused again! And it’s getting colder at night.” Curt defended. “Did you get special permission for a pet from your building manager?” Curt fidgeted a bit and smiled sheepishly. “She...doesn’t exactly know…..” 

Of course. Owen fought the urge to slam his face onto his hands. 

“I know you can keep a secret Curt, but you have an inspection monthly. Are you going to be able to remove all evidence? And what about when you are on mission? Someone will have to take care of the cat. Will they be able to keep a secret like you? Plus there are variables you can’t control that could reveal her. What if she meows too loud and your neighbors hear? What if someone sees her in a window? It’s against your building’s code and you could get kicked out.”

He knew this because Curt had complained to him about it on a mission nearly a year ago. Owen remembered the frustrated voice and the lip jutted out into pout. A pout he desperately wanted to kiss. But he couldn’t. Not then.

 He squeezes Curt comfortingly and speaks his next words carefully and with sympathy. “You can’t keep her Curt.”

He expects whining. An argument. But instead Curt nods solemnly in acceptance. “I know. That’s why you are taking her back to London with you.”

Owen blinked at his boyfriend. When no sign of joking became apparent after a few moments his thoughts left his lips. “I most certainly am not!”

“Yes you are. You have to. I can’t keep her. But you can. Your building doesn’t have these stupid restrictions.”

“I understand that, but owning a pet is a huge thing and...I don’t know Curt. I’ve never had one. I’m not home half the time. She might not even like me.” Owen was almost desperately trying to justify himself and hold up against Curt’s pleading gaze. 

“Great! So she’ll be your first! And you have that nice lady who comes in to look after your plants, she could help you care for your new pet! And I am sure Special Agent Fluff will love you almost as much as I do.”

Silence reigned in the room for a minute. “Please tell me did not name that poor cat Agent Fluff.”

“Special Agent Fluff.” 

“Oh yes, that’s so much better.” Owen’s sarcastic words seemed to go unnoticed as Curt continued. “She needs someone to take care of her O, and I trust you more than anyone. I know I could find her another good home but I can’t stand the thought of her going to some stranger who might not treat her right. And this way I’ll still get to see her. She chose me and I chose you, she’s ours. Please.”

Owen Carvour had been a spy for years. Faced down countless people of the very worst kind. Had killed terrorists even as they begged for their worthless lives. Had carried out acts others would be sick at for the good of humanity and did it without flinching. He had steel nerves and resolve.

But damn it if Curtis Mega using the word ours didn’t do something unspeakably warm and gooey to his insides. 

“I…..will consider it.” Owen conceded, gaining a heart-stopping smile from his partner that he couldn’t resist (not that he tried) leaning in to kiss again. “So, I suppose I should meet my potential new flatmate then.” He commented when he pulled back. 

Curt nodded happily and practically dragged him toward the bedroom, something he had been expecting to happen when he got here though not in this context. Hmmmm….maybe later. 

“I just know you are going to love her.” Curt announced as he opened the door to his room. His empty room. “She must be hiding.” Curt followed his words by making soft clicking noises, clearly trying to summon the cat. Owen was scanning the room, trying to spot any sign of fur when he suddenly felt a soft tickling sensation on his ankles. He looked down to see a tiny orange puffball rubbing it’s way in and out of his legs. 

“Jeez I didn’t even see her come out.” He exclaimed in slight surprise. “Of course not, a good Agent is stealthy, O.” Curt commented almost proudly. “I told you she would like you! And I relate, I also want to constantly rub up against your legs.” Curt ended with a sultry tone and a suggestive wink. 

Owen swallowed hard before schooling his face into one of mock chastisement. “In front of a baby Mega, you should be ashamed of yourself.” Curt scoffed at his words, a mischievous look playing on his face. “I have no shame.” Owen hummed in reply, concealing his chuckle. “Clearly.”

Owen leaned down and scooped up the kitten, holding her out and looking at her critically. She looked no older than a couple months old max. She had blue eyes. She was not declawed. She was reaching out a front paw to bat curiously at a strand of hair hanging in his face. He tries to maintain seriousness in the face of her adorable tilted head and his boyfriend's infectious laughter sounding from beside him.

“Well she looks healthy enough. Not sure what breed she is. Doesn’t look like she would shed too bad.” Owen listed off as if the combined forces of the adorable pleading faces of both this cat and his partner had not already swayed him.

“She’ll be a nice companion and I would come over to check on her so you get to see me too.” Curt encouraged.

Owen froze and let out a low gasp. “You mean you wouldn’t come over just for me? I’m not good enough?” His voice cracked near the end and he sounded like he was holding back tears. 

Curt’s eyes widened. “Of course I would come over just for you, honey. I love you so much. You are way more than good enough for me. I didn’t mean it like-” Owen cut his lover off with a soft kiss on the cheek. 

“I know that love. I was just messing with you.” He admitted with a semi sheepish smile. 

Curt stuck his tongue out at him. Like the mature spy his boyfriend is. 

“Not funny asshole. You are too good an actor sometimes.” Owen nodded and gave Curt another kiss on the cheek. “I’ll take that as a compliment.” He leaned in to kiss his boyfriend again, get him smiling again, when the cat decided she wanted in on the action, butting her little head against Curt. 

Curt smiled and reached a hand up to scratch at her ears to the cat’s delight. Owen felt the soft vibrations of her purrs against his hands. “See what you are going to have to deal with Fluff?” Curt questioned the kitty. Owen sputtered. “I have not agreed to take the cat yet!” He pointed out. 

“But you are going to right?” Curt looked at him beseechingly. As if in understanding the situation at hand, the kitten gave an adorable little mewl and before giving a tiny kitten lick to Owen’s hand. 

Damn both of them. 

“I guess I am.” He acquiesced with an exaggerated sigh. “Yes!” Curt exclaimed with a large grin as he plopped to sit on the edge of his bed. Owen let the cat jump down onto the bed before sitting down himself. Again as if understanding what had just happened, the cat gave him a mewled happily at him before going to curl up on one of Curt’s pillows. 

“Thank you.” Curt said once Owen was beside him, his voice sounding half sincere and half smug. Little bastard knew Owen would cave. “You’re lucky I love you Curt Mega.” He teased. He expects to be teased in return, as per usual but Curt forgoes their banter to give him a genuine smile. “I know I am.” 

Owen barely had time to smile back before Curt’s head was tucked under his chin, the American agent’s arms winding around his waist and hugging him tightly. He returned the hug, one hand coming up to play with the back of Curt’s hair while the other simply rested on his partner’s back. They sat in silence and contentment for a minute. 

“How long do we have?” Curt asked, voice muffled against Owen’s chest. The question was posed with clear hesitancy. As if Curt expected him to say they had only minutes left together. He was glad that was not the case. “I have five days before my flight. Please tell me you don’t have a mission coming up right now?” It was Owen’s turn to be hesitant and worried, though his worries were quickly eased by feeling Curt’s lips pull up into a grin against him before being totally swept away by Curt’s words. “Cynthia has me catching up on paperwork for the next week and a half. I’ll be at home.”

He knows to most couples five days would seem like nothing. But in their line of work, in separate countries and agencies, in a forbidden relationship, five days with no work and no distractions was a true rarity. “Just us for five whole days.” Owen spoke aloud, knowing Curt’s thoughts must be echoing his. He goes to say something more but interrupts himself with a yawn. 

“Tired darling?” Curt’s tone is teasing but his face betrays his concern as he pulls back and notices Owen is a bit paler than normal and has slight bags under his eyes. Owen shrugs off the concern rather sheepishly. “I umm...haven’t really slept since the flight over. Wanted to get done with the mission as soon as possible. Give us as much time together as I could.”

Curt sighed before squeezing him tighter. “I appreciate that. And you know I love every second we get to spend together. But that could be dangerous on a mission. Lack of sleep can make you lose focus, react slower, and a whole bunch of other bad shit. I don’t ever want you getting hurt or….” Curt trailed off. 

“I know that. I wouldn’t do it if it were too risky. You’re the reckless one remember.” He joked but Curt didn’t even chuckle. He leaned forward and pressed the softest kiss he could to Curt’s lips. “I know what I can handle, love. I didn’t put myself in any unnecessary danger. I promise.”

This seemed to appease Curt to Owen’s relief. “Besides, the faster it got done the more we would have time to do together right?” He said, hoping to cheer Curt back up. 

It worked, bringing the smile he adored back to his partner’s face. “Well the first thing we need to do is sleep together.” Curt announced to which Owen immediately leaned in and kissed his lover’s neck. “You read my mind.” He practically purred out between kisses. Curt let him press a few more kisses to his soft skin and just barely begin to suck on a sensitive part of his love’s neck before pushing him back. 

“No. I mean actual sleep Owen.” Curt clarified. Owen definitely did not pout at that. “You did that on purpose. And I don’t need to go to sleep. I just got here.” He also definitely didn’t whine as he spoke.

“You just said you hadn’t slept in over forty eight hours. Don’t need sleep my ass.” Curt retorted. “I would be much happier doing something with your ass than sleeping.” Owen mumbled back. Curt grinned and patted his cheek affectionately. He glared back with all the heat he could muster. Which was honestly not much. It looked more like a sulk.

“Okay. Since I can see you are going to be stubborn, how about I make you an offer.” Curt suggested. Owen lifted his head and regarded Curt interestedly. “What kind of offer?”

“You go to sleep now.” Owen immediately went to interject but Curt pressed a finger against his lips. “You go to sleep now. I will stay and cuddle you until you fall asleep. Then I will get up and make your favorites for dinner while you are sleeping. And once you wake up we can eat together and then I will put Special Agent Fluff out in the living room with a bed and a few toys and you and I can come back in here and spend the next few hours doing whatever you want.” Curt’s sultry tone had returned for the final sentence and damn it if it wasn’t tempting. 

He made a show of considering for a minute before speaking. “You are an excellent negotiator Agent Mega.” The British spy complemented wryly. “I try Agent Carvour. So do we have a deal?” Owen let the question hang for just a moment before responding. “We do.” 

Curt grinned at him. “Good. Do you need to borrow some pajamas or do you have your own?" 

He technically had his own but wearing his boyfriend's clothes was a guilty pleasure, one they both had coincidentally. "I want to borrow some." 

Curt shooting him a slightly smirking grin is the only indication that he noticed the distinction Owen had used. Owen watched absent-mindedly as his partner rifled through his drawers. After a minute or so he tossed something I've his shoulder without looking back. 

Owen caught it with ease and examined it. A soft pair of sleep trousers that looked like they were just slightly too long for his American counterpart meaning they should fit him quite nicely. He raised an eyebrow as Curt shut his drawers and started back towards the bed, turning the blankets down. 

"What?" Curt asked when he noticed Owen's stare, radiating innocence."You forgot to give me a shirt, love." He informed, even though he was absolutely certain Curt was well aware of this. "Did I? Whoops. Sorry, O." 

Despite his apology the man made no move to actually go get a shirt for him, instead climbing into bed and tucking himself under the covers. 

Owen huffed out a laugh and rolled his eyes before changing into the trousers, chucking his worn clothes into a pile in the corner. He climbed back into bed and scooped his boyfriend into his arms. Curt squirmed slightly in his arms, adjusting against him before stilling, his body relaxing. Owen felt his body relax too in response, enjoying sleeping beside his love for the first time in so long. Wishing he could do this every night but knowing that was impossible, so he would just have to make the most of the time they had together now.

The last thing he felt before he drifted off with a smile on his face was a small warm jumping up and settling on his hip.

That's it, hope you enjoyed! If you did please leave a like or comment or reblog, it would mean the world. Have a wonderful day/night/whatever time it is for you! :)

[enbycalicocat]

Day 10: 5th of February, 2021

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At the tender age of almost twenty-six, Ellie already felt as burned out as if she were in fact sixty. She wasn’t even working a ‘proper and serious’ job, as her dad liked to say. Apparently manning a store was not an adult enough job for him. In fact, none of her jobs had been adult enough. Once, Ellie had worked at a book store, which he didn't like either of course. The manager there was about thirty-something, older than Ellie by at least ten years. Or that’s what Ellie thought. And the woman was dedicated to that store. She put her everything into her job. Ellie wondered how she would feel if she heard Ellie’s dad saying her job wasn’t ‘grown-up’ enough.

 Probably about as invalidated as Ellie felt.

 On top of the ‘kid’ job, Ellie hadn’t graduated from university yet. That one was an ongoing issue with her parents, a very serious one. More than her choice of work. They said her only job was studying (uh, hello? It’s not? She also had a full-time job to attend?) and that they could not consent what she was doing with her academic life (as if she needed their ‘consent’ to take longer to graduate).

The thing was, Ellie wasn't doing it on purpose or anything. She really put a lot of effort into her classes. And she really wanted to graduate, for no better reason than making them happy and get them to stop stressing her with their beliefs of when she should’ve graduated (which wasn't very healthy, Ellie was aware). But she just couldn't. For some reason, university was unbearably exhausting for her. It was something that made her tired to the very marrow of her bones. She hated it, with passion and fierceness. Hated it like nothing in the world.

 After nearly six or seven years attending university (she changed degrees after the first two years and had to start again from zero in the new degree), the girl had come to a conclusion. University and her just did not get along well. Mind you, not studying and her. Not learning and her. No. University and her. There was a difference. Ellie liked learning. And she didn’t mind studying. Her problem was university. She didn’t like the courses, didn’t like how they were taught, didn't like the grading system.

Why was she studying then? Because in this country you went nowhere without a university degree. That’s why.

 Ellie wanted to go nowhere. But her parents wouldn’t let her.

 And hence, the burned out feeling mentioned before.

 When life felt particularly crushing, Ellie liked playing simulation games. Specifically, farm simulation games. And that was what the girl was doing currently. The little guy on the screen moved according to the commands from the joystick, the arrows, and the buttons under her fingers, as she made him check to see how tomorrow’s weather would be and if she would have luck today.

 I wish I was somebody else.

 The guy on screen watered his little patches of crops. The watering can soon needed to be upgraded soon.

 Really? Somebody else? With a whole other personality?

 Ah, these crops were ready to be picked up, that meant money would be coming in today.

 Hmmm. Now that I think about it, no. I don’t want to be someone else. I want to be me. I like me. And my personality. I just don’t like my life. So let me rephrase that. I want to have a different life.

 And… Done! All the crops were watered and she had picked up everything that matured. Now, off to sell the results of her hard work.

 Another life? What kind of life would you want? What would change? Your major at university? Like you haven’t tried that already.

 Ellie ignored her very own voice berating herself as she separated the vegetables. The normal and silver ones would go to the shipping box by the house. The golden and purple ones would be sold at the local produce store. Because the girl cared about her reputation in town and didn’t want the neighbors saying the stuff she grew tasted horrible.

 No, I wouldn’t change majors. That would make no difference.

 The girl rolled her eyes at the screen in front of her, as if the tiny hardworking guy from the game or the television set could somehow be made responsible for annoying herself.

 Well, what then? What kind of life would you want?

 Finally at the supermarket, the guy walked over to the cash register and began to sell the crops. What kind of life did I want? She had not the slightest idea. Yet, as she watched the guy standing by the counter, pausing in the middle of counting, an idea occurred to her.

 Well, first of all, I would’ve fought harder to give voice to the crippling gender dysphoria I felt when I was younger. I don't know that we would've been able to afford a sex change. Or that my country even allowed that back then. But if I had at least fought to have that very present male 'side' of me acknowledged, I would now be happily living as an androgynous being. Because I didn't, at present time I'm just a girl trying to hide her biological gender characteristics. If hormone therapy was in fact an option back then, and I had started it early enough, I wouldn’t have these annoying piece of crap breasts that do nothing but hurt and bring me trouble.

 Continuing to sell the produce she'd harvested, Ellie imagined she'd look just like my character on screen. Slightly masculine, but also slightly femenine. Keeping people guessing as to which category to put her under. She could already picture this new life in her mind.

The day she... no, they, told their parents about how they sometimes feel very male. How sometimes the female gender biological characteristics feel weird, odd, off, like something was missing. Then going to school.

School...

How would school be? The bullying probably would've been the same. But they would feel happier about themselves, about their body, about the way they looked and dressed. They probably would've developed a whole different set of mental issues and gone to the psychologist no matter what. But Ellie wanted to believe that it would've all been better than what her school and younger years where actually like.

 Oh, that’s a good start. And then? What else would be different?

 Focusing back on the game, she finished with selling, and started buying the new seeds to replant the crops that had been sold. I also needed to buy fertilizer because the one I’d used had disappeared as soon as I picked up the crops. If my production rate continued like this, I would be able to buy the next bag and have more inventory space. And after that, I could expand my crop patches. More crops planted, more veggies to sell, more money coming in, and more money meant upgrades could happen faster.

Noticing all the planning and business decisions going on in her head, another idea came.

 I would refuse university from the very beginning.

 The guy on screen, the pixel Ellie, walked back to his farm with his seeds and his fertilizer, significantly poorer, for now.

 No studying? How would you make a living then?

 When the guy was home again, she got to work immediately, fertilizing, planting, and watering. They had other things to do that day.

 I would make a living by…

 At first, she’d thought about being a farmer, like the pixel Ellie. But in this country, farming meant working for the corrupt government, because all the new plots of land belonged to them. And there was no way, that was happening. Also, here having a farm meant no electricity, no running water, no wifi, no signal, no modern stuff. So, as much as she liked farming in game life, that wouldn’t work in real life.

 Ah, pixel Ellie was running out of energy and they had no food in the backpack. So, they ran inside to quickly cook something in the house’s kitchen. Real life Ellie would love to make different dishes, there were some dishes that sounded really good. But this game was about how much energy you got from food. Hence, the importance wasn’t on the dishes name, or its ingredients, it was on how much it refilled the bar on the bottom right corner of the screen.

 That’s when another idea came to her.

 How about cooking? I could go to vocational school and study to be a chef. I really like cooking. Though, more than cooking, I think I would love to be a baker. I like making cakes, and cookies, and that kind of stuff. I mean, I don’t mind cooking, and I put heart into what I make. But I only have real honest fun baking.

 So, instead of doing it as a hobby like you do right now, you would do it to earn a living? Remember the last time you tried to make a living out of one of your hobbies?

 Writing.

 That had been the worst mistake of her life. It got the poor girl into the biggest writing slump she'd ever experienced. All because Ellie had tried to make a living just as a writer and the pressure ate her alive. Until she developed anxiety so bad that Ellie just could not write without feeling like she would have a panic attack at any second.

 Yeah, not so good an idea then.

 She got the little pixel guy moving again. Everything farm related was done now. Let’s go fish and earn some money for that backpack.

 For a while, the girl just played. Eyes glued to the screen. Thinking about nothing but her utter failure to be a human being. What did I want to do in freaking life? How was I supposed to make a living when I wanted to do nothing? How was I supposed to be a functional part of society when everything seems like an unbearable pressure and everything makes me have panic attacks? I would adore to take the pressure out of things. Maybe then I would enjoy them. Maybe then I would be able to have a stable job and a stable income and be a ‘grown-up’.

 How about you stop trying to find ways to make a living out of the things you love? We have proven time and time again, that doing that will just make you end up hating them.

 Sighing, tired and frustrated and angry with herself, Ellie threw herself back onto the bed, staring at the ceiling.

 I don’t want to be a fudging billionaire. I don’t want to have some big-shot job. I don’t want to be a lawyer, or a doctor, or an engineer, or any of that crap. I’m happy with my stupid kitchen store job. They pay me more than a big percentage of the people in this country. Never mind if we compared it to what the people without a college degree earned. Even if I graduated there was no guarantee that I would get a better paying job, proved by the millions earning minimum wage out there. in any other country my job would be enough to pay for rent, food, and some luxury expenses. And I have enough free time to write as much as I want, because I don’t bring work home. So, tell me what the hell is wrong with just quitting university, dedicating myself to the store, maybe wind up as a personal secretary or manger later on, and write in my free time?

 For once, there was silence in Ellie's head.

 Indeed. What is wrong with doing that?

 She sat up on the bed, looking around as her mind whirled.

That would take the pressure off writing. And I could literally just do it for fun. And my income wouldn’t depend on whether I write or not.

 The heart in her chest was beating wildly. Excited. Happy.

 I can't make enough to be independent with my current job. But to be honest very few jobs in this country would pay me enough. I would have to earn a couple hundred bucks a month, and short of becoming an escort I didn't know what would make me that amount of money. So, I could move out of this country. Go live with my family overseas and do the same simple things I did here. I could be a part of society. I could make a living. And not depend on my parents.

 And, you could also open up a ko-fi or patreon page, have people donate if they want. If they feel like it. That way no pressure is added to you as the author, or to your readers, and you could have some extra income.

 She could picture it already. How happy her life would be.

 And then Ellie remembered her parents. The fact that she didn't have a passport and obtaining one cost around a thousand bucks. The fact that she had no belongings to sell to pay for the plan tickets. Her cowardice. Her nervousness. Her anxiety.

 All at once her body felt completely exhausted. The energy seemed to have been sucked out of the girl and she let herself fall onto the bed, staring at the wall.

 No hollywood dreams. No millions of dollars. No sports cars. No. The only thing I wanted was to be happier with my body, to quit university, to have a peaceful job, and write. That was the life I wanted. The life I couldn’t have.

 So simple. And yet so far from reach.

 A tear rolled down the corner of Ellie's eye, it traversed the bridge of her nose, continued down the underside of the other eye, and finally found the mattress. More and more tears followed its path.

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Prompt: 10. Write the autobiography of the life you weren’t brave enough to lead.

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Previous Day Next Day

[diana-field]

Diana has another dumb hobby

I never made an introduction post for my plants! My babies! My beautiful children!

So here they are(in no order- I love them all equally):

June

My first plant! They’re a wandering Jew I think, though they’re not striped. I cut them off of an older plant and let them grow roots in water before potting them. They have a cute little crystal in their pot to keep them company!

June’s quiet and timid but very caring and gentle. A good one to talk to.

They have a baby leaf that seems to be growing at a slower rate than leaves in the past, but I think that’s because they’re focusing on growing their stem towards the window. I’m so proud! Their color is dimmer than usual right now(not in the picture) but that’s just because I need to water them.

Mauve, Mercury, and Marzipan

Mercury’s the air plant on the left, Marzipan’s on the right, and Mauve’s the moss.

They’re all pretty quiet. Mercury’s the stoic type, Marzipan seems very shy but is nice once you warm up to her, and Mauve’s a total sweetheart.

They all seem to enjoy watching the sunrise, though Marzipan seems to love the moon as well. Mauve really likes to be misted with water.

Gilbert

Another air plant! He was a gift for the holidays from our aunt.

He’s timid and nervous. But he’s also a total nerd. If he has eyes I bet he’d like to read.

The tips of his leaves are brown- does anyone know why? Have I been watering him too much, or is this normal and he’s fine(same goes for the other air plants)?

Jera

Named after the rune, Jera is a strong and cheerful hyacinth! They started out as a tiny bulb but slowly and surely grew and bloomed beautifully. They’re the tallest hyacinth we have, and the only one that’s mine! I really tried to encourage them to become who they wanted to be. I’m very proud of them, and they’ve inspired me a lot.

They’re very cheerful and energetic. I plan on planting them in the ground come spring so that way I can see them next year as well!

Terra and Venerian

They’re a lesbian couple.

Terra’s some sort of cactus I think(if anyone knows what she is, please tell me!). She’s kinda cold and snarky at first but once she warms up to you is a true friend who will help hide a body. She reminded me of the taiga forest biome in Minecraft for some reason, I don’t know, and gives off real down-to-earth vibes- hence her name.

Venerian’s an echeveria. She’s starting to bloom and it’s so pretty!! She’s a social butterfly and is always super supportive and kind to others. She’s got a nice mix of being calm and energetic. Her name comes from her fem vibe and the fact that her flower stalks look like antennae!

Garlan wanted to name them, and I reluctantly allowed him to give me suggestions.

They make a really cute couple and love each other a lot.

Lei, Aramis, and Gwen

Lei’s the striped one. I don’t know what type of plant they are?? I wanted to call them painted-something though. Hence why I named them after Leonardo. And the flowers in a lei because they’re colorful. They can come off as stuck up at first but are actually really kind and chill.

Someone said they’re a type of sedge, but I don’t know if that’s right or not. Aramis doesn’t seem to be recovering from when I forgot to water them. If anyone has some advice to get them to perk up, please help me! They’re soft-spoken but adventurous. Very child-like. The musketeers are jerks but we didn’t know that when we chose the name. He’s happy with it though.

Gwen(another wandering jew) was named after Guinevere. They’re hardy and kind. Very gentle. You just wanna hug them. And they keep on producing super healthy leaves!

When I got them from our mom they were dying. She was gonna throw them out but I took them instead. They’re doing much better! As long as Aramis heals up, that is.

Gerard

Yes, he’s named after Gerard Way. The name just came naturally.

Don’t worry, he’s not living on the floor. That was just the best photo spot.

Our biology teacher had a few spider plants with lots of babies, so she was handing them out to any students who wanted one!

I haven’t had them for very long but I’m getting the kind of vibe that you get from a chill emo who just wants to enjoy life, you know?

I’ll pot them once they get roots growing. Then I’ll form an army of their clones.

In conclusion:

Every tulpa should have a plant. Or a metaphorical plant. A responsibility.

Or maybe only tulpas like me who need something to do or else they’ll glue fabric to a nearly destroyed notebook and call it their hobby.

Honestly though, if you’re a tulpa and you need a hobby, consider plants. They give me a sense of responsibility and have helped me actually take on less- and what I mean by that is I’ve gotten to know my capabilities and have learned that there’s some things I don’t need to deal with. I might need to ask for help with some math shit, and that’s okay because it’s necessary sometimes. I might need some advice for taking care of plants but it’s alright because I’m new to it and I’m improving.

This is all just a ramble but if you feel like you’re lacking in a sense of purpose, getting a hobby is a real help in that. It gives you something to say, “this is mine, I did this”. It’s a great feeling and I think it’s helped me mature. Probably. I’m not sure how mature I am but lol.

So uhhhhh yep that’s all I’ve got to say about that. Take care of your tulpas and take care of your plants. Stay hydrated everybody.

[firstpuffin]

Learning with Lois & Clark: The new adventures of Superman:

I’m not typically an “older is better” type of person; I watch new shows, listen to current music and play recent games. But when I do it’s usually for nostalgia, a chance to revisit it from a more mature point of view, or simply because of its “quaint” and outdated feel. Usually, the older stuff is inferior simply because we’ve learned to do things better since then.

  Sometimes the older stuff is better though, as it can seem like more current products are made by people who kinda don’t give a damn. I mean don’t get me wrong, I’m sure they do: I’d bet that they are actually rushed, under-funded and under-equipped. Maybe they do what I’m guilty of and aim too big for what they are in a position to achieve.

  Anyway, over a hundred words in and I haven’t even mentioned the name of the tv show yet; maybe this’ll be another long one.

  Lois and Clark The New Adventures of Superman!

 Being maybe three months older than this show (lazy maths), naturally I grew up with it and have very, very vague memories of watching it with my mom. And by memories I mean memory, and by memory I mean red kryptonite in a lead-lined case causing Clark to run into something. I don’t know if that actually happens, but if it does then it’s not in series one.

  For many people my age it was our first experience of Superman, and many of us lost interest in the character afterwards. Why? Because Superman is way too powerful, which is boring. Lois and Clark - doesn’t exactly not do this, but instead does it well.

  The stories involve mysteries to solve and obstacles to overcome. Yes, Superman always comes out by the end, they are his new adventures after all, but he isn’t the focus: Clark is. Hence the title “Lois and Clark”.

 Smallville attempted to do mysteries too. What my brother calls “monster of the week” (he didn’t coin it but that’s where I know the term from) where they have to find out who the superpowered criminal is this time and then how to stop them. But the mysteries are kinda bullshit and are solved by Clark running in and pushing them into something in a “decidedly non-lethal” way.

  In one of the episodes towards the end of Lois and Clark series 1, Superman only appears right at the very end in order to save a falling Lois; it’s clearly a way just to get him on screen but everything else was done by the rest of the cast or by Clark. Yeah, it’s the damsel in distress trope, but that’s most of the show anyway; it’s weak, but also not the point.

  And what about Supergirl and sure, The Flash. This was never meant to be a Superman article but a superhero article. Both of these shows have the hero in tights for a large portion of each episode, running around and punching people. The mysteries are usually second to the drama surrounding the characters, and are solved by some vague, obviously wrong science or the hero just heroing harder.

 Actually yeah, let’s go into the science. Lois and Clark barely touch upon science and what there is tends to be simple; it could be said that it’s to help the layman understand, or maybe because people’s views on science have become more complicated. But it is a far better approach.

  I mean yeah, Lex Luthor has a nuclear power-plant in the city, and uses it to heat up the city which he times with Superman’s activities to blame him for the recent sweltering heatwave; it’s simple and dumb and quaint in a 90’s way, but it also makes sense in a world where people are apparently so scientifically illiterate.

  Smallville’s first baddie has an electrolyte imbalance which- which gives him- why do I have to write this? His electrolyte imbalance gives him electricity powers… ‘nuff said.

  I would write something about the recent Arrowverse but the “science” in that is so far gone beyond anything resembling sense that there isn’t much to say. They throw science babble at each other that the viewers aren’t supposed to understand, and that’s how they get away with it. They reuse and abuse tachyons, dwarf star alloy and time-travel, never obeying the rules that they have set for these things. Heck, they’ve changed Barry’s blood-type at least once.

  If you are going to go that far then why bother with the science? I fully intend to write something along these lines where the tech-guy just says:

              ((“I could throw some techno-babble at you, but you won’t get it. You know you won’t get it. Just accept that it’ll work and use it.”))

I didn’t put any work into that so it’s not great dialogue (of course it’s not, I said “techno-babble”). People will accept this though, and it won’t put anal people like me off.

 I have less than 200 words to talk about inter-personal relationships so expect vague descriptions and no conclusion.

  I recently revisited The Flash and found that it actually started quite a bit better than it has become. They were trying to focus on the stories and characters, but now it’s almost all inter-relationship crap. Lois and Clark has really good character drama, but it’s always second to the story. Actually, that’s not quite right. The relationships happen during the story, and really that’s the way to do it.

  Lois is often competing with everybody, which typically leads to them competing back. They drive each other’s actions and grow accordingly.

 I wanted to write about Lex too. In many ways he’s a very uninspired character, but he’s also so unabashedly villainous that it’s super endearing. Throw in his relationship with Lois and he’s suddenly a compelling character.

              Really, this is the way to do it. Interweave story and relationships, using the characters bouncing off of each other to progress events. It feels natural, the pacing flows and best of all it’s hard to get preachy when things are on the go.

[derangedhyena-zoids]

So now that I have a chance to write this in an orderly manner:

In my land of things, Hiltz is a Complete Monster. 

I only work with two* Complete Monsters in any of my stories, and the other one is technically abandoned, so. I don't have a lot of real estate for the explorations that come with these kinds of characters just because they tend to fucking bend space around them and make the whole story darker just because they're in it. Not every story I have is down for this, nor am I. so.

(*there is another character in KB  that is kind of this, but [it's complicated, and] their innate lack of emotional depth makes them not really... the same. being indifferent to abuse vs being oblivious to it is a big divider imo)

Despite the backstory comic I just made, I'm not trying make him sympathetic. That piece is just a tiny, specific, show-relevant slice of backstory that I've had in-mind for a LONG while because it was sorely missing. It exists just as much to "explain" him as it does point out that there were steep ethical issues involved with humans obliviously dredging up the past. Plus plants a flag in what relevance I think Hiltz actually had to the death of Raven's parents. I've always wanted someone to make something for that span of time and to my knowledge no one has. So.

My Hiltz backstory IN ZOIDIAN TIMES would very quickly paint him in a different light, and that's more-or-less why he essentially does a backflip and accelerates past the Moral Event Horizon fast in my canon because he was already there, just wasn't whole and hale enough to recall it. Also keep in mind that he's narrating the backstory piece (by necessity) so of course he's presented well.

He was part of a group that was already on an outright genocidal crusade against other Zoidians (and Zoids, and Organoids) who weren't "strong" enough and therefore deserved to die for the betterment of the species. That group got heavily into the power of the primal (you know, the four F's... except for them it was more like 3) because of the viciously positive feedback loop it set up. Their unyielding brutality was incompatible with the... you know, DECENT society other groups were trying to maintain. Hence big war, big apocalypse.

The events that led up to the Death Saurer/Death Scorpion took a long, excruciating time, over which the group Hiltz was part of chewed through the fabric of society like a cancer. Part of what made things really bad was the creeping conversion to the "winning" side's way of thinking. The assault on their society was both outright (active attacks on peaceful settlements) and insidious (attempts to convert, planting people in key positions/institutions, etc).

Once Hiltz got his wits about him in CC-times and realized what had happened, he felt obligated to do something to erase humanity - which was many times worse than even the most "inferior" Zoidian. The issues being, during his early time among humans he lost a fair amount of his mental stability because they did not treat him well (read: vivisected, and unintentionally they basically starved him), and he was kept in isolation. This damage was compounded by the lack of having Ambient around - Zoidians don't do well without their Organoids, and especially in that group they'd become over-reliant on them.  

So... Hiltz started out pretty penalized on the sanity front. (The only reason he just didn't up and die was because he was so strong-willed)

Then he realized the futility of his entire, prior belief system, life and efforts up to that point given that Zoidians were basically a dead race (hence his wide nihilistic streak) ... then let himself be tempted by One... then was basically, inadvertently mentally stabbed to death by Ambient carrying around the shard of One... then (in his mind) was betrayed by Ryss. And, you know, the whole Death Stinger power trip thing didn't help. There was very little good about him to begin with, but by GF there just Wasn't Any. He was completely ax-crazy.

But let me back up a little bit. 

Let's consider that tetchy canon timeline.

Per the math, Ryss being found in the Imperial village with Nicholai happened 3 years prior to when Hiltz retrieved Ambient & Raven's parents were killed. The Republican army attacked that village and took young Ryss, but given that Prozen had all the information about that village and its associated events restricted/classified, I'm going to make a relatively safe assumption that he had Imperial forces shitkick the Republican ones shortly thereafter and they took possession of Ryss.  

Ryss wasn't treated as badly as Hiltz was, but she wasn't treated especially well either. She had Specula so fared much better overall, but... she had Specula and people kept trying to mess with/take Specula away and THAT wasn't great. However, the Imperial Army - aggressively subverting expectations - was far more conservative in their Zoidian research so never did anything too drastic. Ryss was also incredibly hostile because she was afraid. She barely knew the language, and the range of traumatizing human behaviors she’d seen didn't help much.

Hiltz lived in that small colony during this timeframe, oblivious. Several years later though, after recovering his memory, he sought out the opposing faction, because fuck the Republicans and he needed resources to do anything. He figured he could talk, teleport, and brute force his way around - and he was right, and very soon was acquainted with Prozen.

And here's where I'm going to put up some 'sensitive subject' caution tape.

Shortly after that is when he learned they had a young ancient Zoidian girl in their custody. Obviously this was INCREDIBLY relevant to Hiltz's interests - remember, at that point he wasn't aware of any other living Zoidians, and from what he learned from the Scholar had become concerned that most that would've otherwise survived, had been killed.

So Hiltz is introduced to Ryss, who's matured a little but she's still the Zoidian equivalent of a preteen.

Remember: Hiltz is from the Big On Genocide group and to anyone who knows what's up, it's written all over him. Ryss is from a smaller clan that was specifically targeted by Hiltz's group so of course she's torn between being absolutely terrified and being glad that someone who speaks her language and understands Organoids exists at all.

Hiltz explained the situation as he understood it, and worked to gain Ryss's trust by basically denouncing his association with his group. He put an end to her being held against her will, and they stayed together from then on. But let's be real. Hiltz wanted to fuck her six ways from Sunday. And she was VERY aware of this. And he knew she was very aware of this. So on and so forth. (read: at this point in time Ryss found she could easily exert control over exactly one person and did so. Much to Hiltz’s chagrin.) 

However, not only were there functional issues with this (eg Specula wasn't fully sexually mature, which tl;drs into "Ryss wasn't yet either" - and obviously part of Hiltz's interest was reproduction), Hiltz also did have the sense to not... you know, rape a child. He did genuinely want Ryss to trust him, work with him, and - hey, you know, maybe even -want- to be his mate? Pickings were slim after all, but there wasn't any reason they couldn't make the best of a bad situation. (maybe he might have tried “not constantly thinking of her as a lesser” but okay)

So everyone grew up some more and hooray, Guardian Force.

Thing is, Hiltz was an angry, mentally-unstable person with a slow but vicious temper, and though Ryss rarely caught sight of that, his wanton violence was a bit scary. Ryss also began to sympathize more with humans over time, which Hiltz couldn't stand. Ryss especially sympathized with Raven, who she initially was just intrigued by, but then she kiiiind of fell for him.        

[insert that short comic, Collapse.]

I have no intention, never have had any intention, of portraying Hiltz positively. In my canon he's a disgusting, broken, shambling mess with offensively high Charisma and I thematically like the idea of his atrocious scattering of a lineage having to deal with all the problems that'd come with (also, hi: the whole thing with anyone of Zoidian blood feeling compelled to Zoids and especially Organoids? Is a sort of allegory for addiction, which... yanno, runs in families)

k? k.

Oh and Ambient is an aggressively problematic pile of shit also. He's just as vicious as Hiltz. Aren't we excited to have him show up in NC? HAHAH FUCK.

Organoids are their own entities, though. He's not just some strange extension of Hiltz's personality. He's his own "person" - one who's been a delighted participant in -many, many- atrocious acts. He's arrogant and prideful, he's got a dark sense of humor and is loyal to a fault. He just doesn't have a handle on the problems One has caused him, and it's gnawed at him for years. (and unlike the older canon version, he's not completely lost his mind or anything - but depressed wallowing in a pit of failure and hate for years isn't really healthy.)

He's also held on to grudges for dear life, because otherwise the vastness of existence w/o partners for a hugely social creature was untenable.

Basically, I think there may be some hope for him to be turned around as a character. Hiltz - nope, never.

[kratomforsaleblog-blog]

KRATOM FOR RELAXATION: THE MOST RELAXING KRATOM STRAINS RANKED

Mitragyna speciosa, much better called kratom, is a flexible plant. Based upon the breed and vein colours, it may cause pain relief, a mood increase, or sedative effects. However, among the most well-known applications is kratom for stress. However, what's the most relaxing kratom?

In the current article, we are going to be moving over the most common breeds of kratom, which means that you may ascertain which strand colours to meet your requirements. Keep reading for this fast guide to the world's top high quality kratom and their consequences!

Why Are Some Kratom Strains More Allergic Than Others? 1 Word: Alkaloids Like most botanicals, kratom consists of a intricate mix of pure chemical compounds. Of these chemicals, a number of the very important (and powerful!) Are called alkaloids. So visit here to buy Kratom.

The a variety of breeds of kratom are now the exact same plant species. What distinguishes them from each other is the distinctive mixture of kratom alkaloids. The exceptional alkaloid mix found in every one of the red, white, and green strand colours determines the breed's effects and its own color!

Both alkaloids considered to be responsible for kratom's effects are referred to as mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.

Mitragynine: Mitragynine is the more flexible of both main kratom alkaloids, and also the"dosage-dependent" principle (see below) employs more heavily. This chemical is best in young plants, therefore white strand kratom breeds contain the many mitragynine, followed by green vein, then reddish vein. 7-hydroxymitragynine: 7-hydroxymitragynine can also be dosage-dependent, however, it will have stronger analgesic and sedative side effects, making high 7-HO breeds an perfect kratom for stress and comfort. This chemical is best in older plants, hence red strand kratoms include the many 7-hydroxymitragynine, followed by green strand, subsequently white vein. Since the atom plant develops and matures, its mitragynine levels slowly decrease while its 7-hydroxymitragynine levels slowly grow.

But that is your Most Relaxing Kratom Alkaloid? The two mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine possess the capability to unwind users. They could equally evoke sedative effects to varying levels. But, there are a number of substantial differences between diatom breeds and their distinctive alkaloid profiles.

It is important to remember the kratom's consequences are dose-dependent. Based on The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association,

"Low to moderate doses (1-5 g) of these leaves allegedly create mild stimulant effects which [...] ward off exhaustion. Moderate to high doses (5-15 g) have been reported to possess opioid-like outcomes "

Irrespective of which strand colours you decide to usethis rule will hold true for many users. On the other hand, the exceptional alkaloid profile of every breed makes it possible for a few to stand out as the very relaxing diatom breeds.

Red Vein Kratom: the Most Relaxing Kratom Red strand kratom is created of the very adult plants, harvested in the previous stage of this kratom shrub's life-cycle. Red strand breeds are extremely high in 7-hydroxymitragynine, making red strand breeds the many relaxing kratom.

But, not all of red strand breeds are created equal. In case you're looking for the really most relaxing kratom breed, think about the following:

Red Thai Kratom Red Maeng Da Kratom White Vein Kratom: the Most Uplifting and Energizing Kratom White strand kratom is chosen from plants whose 7-hydroxymitragynine amounts are extremely low. Users searching for the very relaxing kratom should appear elsewhere, however, white strand breeds surely have their applications -- and lots of devoted fans.

White strand breeds are somewhat more energizing and uplifting, and they're usually believed to be the most inspirational breeds of kratom. Much like kratom's cousin, java, green strand breeds are fantastic to get a power increase or to help you concentrate. But in case you're searching for something to unwind or a breed of kratom for stress, you would be better served with red black or strand vein strains.

Green Vein Kratom: the Center of the Road Green strand kratom is chosen at the center of the kratom shrub's life-cycle, and it boasts a balance of kratom's 2 major alkaloids.

The diatom community appreciates green vein diatom breeds because of their"centre of the street" effects, balancing the properties of the calming properties of red vein breeds.

If you're seeking the most relaxing kratom encounter whilst at the same time maintaining clear-headed energy, green strand breeds might be the ideal alternative.

The Most Important Thing on the Best Hostels Kratom Strains In the end, reddish strand kratom will possess the most powerful relaxing and side effects consequences, but it might cause some users feel sedated and lethargic.

If you're seeking the most relaxing kratom breed which will still keep you feeling energized and focused, green strand breeds might be the ideal alternative for you.

But, keep in mind that all breeds of kratom are dosage-dependent. Based upon how big your orator dose, then you need to expect to sense various consequences.

At any time you start with a new breed of kratom, it is always best to start little. This is very true of breeds with higher-than-average alkaloid content, for example Maeng Da kratom.

Do not be afraid to branch out! With a little bit of experimentation, you are guaranteed to obtain the most relaxing kratom breed that fits into your distinctive way of life!

[rabbitcruiser]

Bronx Zoo, New York City (No. 20)

The radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata) is a species in the family Testudinidae. Although this species is native to and most abundant in southern Madagascar, it can also be found in the rest of this island, and has been introduced to the islands of Réunion and Mauritius. It is a very long-lived species, with recorded lifespans of at least 188 years. These tortoises are classified as critically endangered by the IUCN, mainly because of the destruction of their habitat and because of poaching.

Growing to a carapace length of up to 16 in (41 cm) and weighing up to 35 lb (16 kg), the radiated tortoise is considered to be one of the world's most beautiful tortoises. 

This tortoise has the basic "tortoise" body shape, which consists of the high-domed carapace, a blunt head, and elephantine feet. The legs, feet, and head are yellow except for a variably sized black patch on top of the head.

The carapace of the radiated tortoise is brilliantly marked with yellow lines radiating from the center of each dark plate of the shell, hence its name. This "star" pattern is more finely detailed and intricate than the normal pattern of other star-patterned tortoise species, such as Geochelone elegans of India. The radiated tortoise is also larger than G. elegans, and the scutes of the carapace are smooth, and not raised up into a bumpy, pyramidal shape as is commonly seen in the latter species.  Sexual dimorphism is slight. Compared to females, male radiated tortoises usually have longer tails and the notches beneath their tails are more noticeable. 

The species is very long-lived. The oldest radiated tortoise ever recorded with certainty was Tu'i Malila, which died at an estimated age of 188. A tortoise named Adwaita is widely believed to have been even older at his death in 2006.

Radiated tortoises occur naturally only in the extreme southern and southwestern part of the island of Madagascar. They have also been introduced to the nearby island of Reunion. They prefer dry regions of brush, thorn (Diderae) forests, and woodlands of southern Madagascar. 

As the radiated tortoises are herbivores, grazing constitutes 80–90% of their diets, while they also eat fruits and succulent plants. A favorite food in the wild is the Opuntia cactus. They are known to graze regularly in the same area, thus keeping the vegetation in that area closely trimmed. They seem to prefer new growth rather than mature growth because of the high-protein, low-fiber content.

Source: Wikipedia

[a-very-fond-farewell]

The forbidden crack! Untamed prompts: 14/?

MeetCute modern!AU [mianqing edition]: “Don’t Bother Looking Down”

[title is from the song “We Fell in Love in October” by Girl in Red]

[let me live vicariously through my baby girls ok?? let me have this]

*

Qingyang wishes she never moved in this damned country in the first place. Coach Nie followed her alright, so she should be fine and, really, she is thankful for this amazing opportunity. But now she kind of regrets giving up her Lanling citizenships in order to move back to her mother’s home country and fence for the Qishan national team. She understands the language to some extent, but the people there immediately notice her accent and they glare at her whenever she speaks.

Coach Nie moved country as well just to make a champion out of her and, although he respects her for the choice she made, Qingyang knows he misses Qinghe and the people he left behind.

Getting into the national team was nothing compared to the impossible task to fit in and live a normal life. Even her new teammates don’t talk to her unless it’s strictly necessary and they always speak in that quick dialect of theirs just to gossip behind her back. Some of the guys in the male team are actually friendly and manager Xiao Xingchen is always offering to help her with this or that. Meng Yao had to leave Lanling to make the team and even his mother is, coincidentally, from Nightless City just like hers. She doesn’t like Xue Yang: barely seventeen, never heard of manners in his life, but he’s a genius in his own way and Qingyang has a lot to learn from his swordsmanship. However, his younger step sister A-Qing is the loveliest girl and the foulest mouth on the planet whenever she begrudgingly cheers for him, so maybe Qingyang could, potentially, relax a bit and have some fun while training.

But no. Their respective teams captains are actually evil and want them to suffer through impossible training sessions just to let them bask in glory without doing much themselves. Wang Lingjiao especially hates Qingyang’s guts and does everything in her power to make her leave.

It’s not Qingyang’s fault if her disgusting boyfriend had tried to give her a lift home too many times already. She wouldn’t even accept a drink from Wen Chao, let alone a lift. But one day Qingyang has enough, honest to the gods she has.

So it’s with a hollow heart that she stumbles into a random library to check if they have something to consult for her anxiety... when she sees her.

The girl that lives above her in her new apartment complex with her Grandma and younger brother. The one who always scowls at her because she never gets the trash out in time. The one who their landlady refers to with the ever lovely title of “our little overachiever” and “med-school dropout” any chance she gets. The one who apparently went to Lanling University along with Qingyang’s cousin ZiXuan and was the top of their class. The one who always runs around with the child she babysits for the rich couple at the end of the street.

And fuck no, Luo Qingyang’s not gonna mess with that.

So when she readies herself for yet another awkward encounter with the angry looking woman, the last thing she expects is to be welcomed with a blinding smile.

“Welcome, how can I help you today?”

And if Qingyang has to rely on some forced pleasantries between retail worker and client just to experience some human connection... so be it. It may be sick to ask for kindness this way, but she’ll make do.

She has to.

[details underneath]

Wen Qing hates her job. Not because she hates books, although she’s not a great reader herself (save from poetry, but nobody needs to know that), but because her boss is the epitome of “welcoming host” and she’s suffering from a chronic case of resting bitch face and forcing smiles is the last thing she wants out of life.

She came back to Qishan to look after her grandma after she broke her femur and her brother Wen Ning is studying to become a teacher and the final exam is nearing. Wen Qing didn’t want him to drop out to look after their grandma, so she left her fancy scholarship behind and came back.

XiChen is her boss at the library and took her in after his brother WangJi asked him to: Wen Qing and A-Yuan are distant cousins, but she and her brother didn’t have a job by the time the child became an orphan and their grandma was too old to look after him; hence, WangJi and his husband Wei Ying adopted A-Yuan and didn’t want him to live separated from his original family, so they moved in Qishan and frequently meet with the Wen’s.

Wen Qing feels bad about dropping out of university, but she refuses to regret it since she’s more than happy to look after her grandma. ZiXuan is a pediatrician now and several years have passed since they were classmates and competing for grades, but he checks on her through video chats every once in a while.

(ZiXuan is -coincidentally- Qingyang’s cousin and they talk a lot more than what they used to do now that he’s married and his wife is waiting for their first child. Turns out, ZiXuan is a secret matchmaking mastermind now that he is happily married and has matured enough to want his dear ones to be happy as well. So he plants the seed of curiosity in Wen Qing’s head by talking about his “hot and exceptionally talented fencer cousin who could possibly bench press a grown man. have I mentioned she’s hot?”)

...

(“Ew, do you think your cousin is hot?” / “Hot as in... lesbian terms, you get me” / “No. I really don’t. I’m straight.” / “Sure Wen Qing. Sure.”)

...

Qingyang keeps going to the library after her practice, in full gear and with her hair messy and red cheeks just to see Wen Qing smile at her and being forced to be nice to her. She absolutely knows the other woman is forced to do so and so she annoys her with pleasantries and silly things, but she never outright flirts with her [the lesbian courtship prevents the subjects from using such direct and straight(pfffffft)forward ways of approach, obviously].

...

(“I’m so sorry for forgetting about the trash the other day” / “That’s [*clenches fists*] fine. Don’t worry about it” / “Will you forgive me, Miss Wen? Really? [*Qingyang used ‘Bambi eyes’. It’s very effective!*] / “Don’t worry, that’s fine [*Wen Qing wishes the ground could swallow her whole. The nerve!*])

...

Wei Ying obviously befriends Luo Qingyang: he has to. He’s never seen Wen Qing this flustered in his life and he needs something to entertain him while Lan Zhan is at work. So he meddles bc he’s a little shit, but we all love him for it anyway.

...

(“Did you make a library card yet or...?” / “I don’t want to give that woman my ID, she might call the police on me once she gets a hold on my name” / “You literally live in the same building” / “It’s a big building. And I always misplace the trash, I’m afraid she’ll call the police on me saying I’m actually hiding a corpse in my apartment. No thank you” / “It’s a library subscription, not a birth certificate for gods’ sake” / “I’m not risking it, Wei Ying” / “Then I’ll tell you what to do.......”)

The next day at the library...

(“I want to get a card” / [*internally screeching* “took you long enough, wasting my time”] “Name?” / “MianMian”)

...

Which is apparently the wrong thing to say, because Wen Qing loves poetry and goes ballistic for any reference she can pick in normal conversations. So when she hears ‘MianMian’ she immediately goes “Then my name is YuanDao” and it’s like a fucking switch has been pressed and now WEN QING IS THE ONE PURSUING but Qingyang doesn’t know anything about poetry and doesn’t know what to do. She’s created a butch monster who actually genuinely smiles at her now and that’s too powerful for a small femme like her holy fuck.

O_o

Additional content: Jiang Cheng goes to a million blind dates until he meets XiChen out of fucking nowhere and they move in together two days later + Meng Yao seduces Nie MingJue with hot fencing routines without even sparing a glance at the older man (his drive is focused only on the medal and... for NMJ that’s kind of hot) + Wen Ning is actually a heartthrob but he’s not interested and runs away from people actually swooning at his feet left and right + Xue Yang is not a criminal and only wants his sister to finally get the service dog of her dreams + Song Lan is a referee but he gets distracted by the Qishan team manager bc... boy is he fine

o_O

[I’m suffering. Can someone write this I do not have time to commit to my own writing and I don’t trust myself with the delivery.

I’m but a tiny prompt-machine help me D:]

*