#your goodwill ambassador

[cressida-jayoungr]

One Dress a Day Challenge

Not-a-Dress November

Darling Lili / Gloria Paul as "Crêpes Suzette"

It's tempting to ask, "Why bother with lavish costumes for a striptease act if they're just going to come off anyway?" But the beading on the robe and underthings is really beautiful and detailed, and it adds to the sense that this is a high-class act. I've added a close-up below. And that's not even mentioning the enormous hat! It's impressive how well she balances it while dancing.

You can see in one of the photos that the robe was apparently on display at an Edith Head retrospective exhibit, but Edith Head wasn't credited on this film. Donald Brooks was, but only on Julie Andrews' costumes. It's a bit of a mystery! (Later update: I tracked down the article that image came from, and apparently the designer of the garment, Jack Bear, was a protege of Edith's.)

Fun fact: This film was rated G.

EDIT to add: The beaded robe is only onscreen for a hot second, but a photo featured at the exhibit shows that it had a long train and a sort of gathered section around knee-length. You can also see the shape when it was reworn in an episode of Star Trek: The Next Generation.

[neil-gaiman]

Dear Mr Gaiman,

Listening to your album with the Four Play, this week my anxiety has learned that you have the most soothing and reassuring voice I have heard in a long time.

For this reason, I dare to ask: in this dankest timeline, in a world that seems to crumble, having children - your little one is just two years younger than mine - being a clever, sensible, cultured human being, how do you cope with fear and worry?

It seems everyday harder to live lightly.

I do what I can to make it easier for the future. For me, that's focusing on refugees. There were 50 million refugees and displaced people when I started, there are 114 million now, and given the effects of climate change on the world those numbers will just be going up. So I work as a Goodwill Ambassador and draw attention to refugees and raise money to help them and remind people that this could be you and that one day it may be.

[jpitha]

Seasons

The thing to keep in mind, is that humans aren't the only thing on Earth. If Xenos think that humans are odd, just wait until they come and visit. Especially if they come back.

*****

The first delegation came in June. The specific time of year wasn't planned or anything, it was just when things had been nailed down for the visit.

The Coalition had sent a few ambassadors down to Earth for goodwill. Earth was heavier than they were used to and on the larger size of planets they knew of that would support sapient life, and the positively gigantic moon orbiting Earth had caused more than a small amount of conversation, but the visit was otherwise uneventful.

Everyone was on their best behavior around the new visitors and the Sefigan's especially liked Earth's trees. Squat, branching, and thick, they were much more imposing than the tall, spindly things that the Sefigans called trees back on their homeworld. More than one of the small furry Sefigans were caught standing underneath the large oaks in front of the embassy, staring up in wonder.

After many meetings about relations, travel, visas and even tourism, the delegation said their goodbyes and left. All in all, it was a great visit.

Four months later, the delegation returned, this time with more people. Included were representatives from tourism boards as well as the heads of mining companies. It turned out that Earth had a lot more heavy metals than other planets with sapient life, so we had begun talks about exporting our bounty to the settled galaxy.

Captain Mary Markuss met the delegation at the airlock. Like last time, they would be taking a human built ship down to the surface. Most Coalition ships weren't designed to go atmospheric, and most human ships were. After the welcome and introductions were completed, she offered the head ambassadors the option to remain on the Command Deck and watch the landing. "It's quiet beautiful this time of year."

The ambassadors - two Sefigans and two Zz'tks - made polite noises, and sat on the seats prepared for them next to Captain Markuss's chair. She set the forward screens to show external views, so it was like they were looking out of large windows as they landed.

The Sefigans were nervous during the fall through the upper atmosphere, but had been coached ahead of time that this was normal and just how humans landed. It still felt to them like a slightly insane way to go down to your homeworld, but they remained silent.

As the ship burst from the clouds, they saw the trees.

The land was covered in the red, yellow, brown, and gold. It was breathtaking, especially if you weren't used to seeing it. Captain Markuss smiled to herself when she saw it. Autumn was her favorite season, and it was always nice to see, especially now that she wasn't planetside as much. It was slightly past peak color so there were many trees already denuded of leaves.

All four ambassadors gasped in surprise. One of the Sefigan ambassadors turned to Captain Markuss, "Captain! What's happened! Your trees are dying!"

One of the Zz'tk ambassadors clacked their wing covers together, a stress action. "Captain. If your planet is suffering from a major extinction event, you should have told the Colation. We have experts that we could deploy to assist."

Captain Markuss looked over at the ambassadors. They all looked worried. One of the Sefigans was furiously taking notes on their pad. She chuckled. "It's Autumn - one of our seasons. This is normal. The trees lose their green color and drop their leaves in preparation for going dormant during the winter."

The Sefigan taking notes stops with their paw above the tab and slowly looks up at Captain Markuss. "This-" they gesture at the screen "-is normal?"

The Captain nods. "Happens every year here. I grew up in this area. The sounds, the smells, the sights of fall are very nostalgic to me. It's my favorite season. I can't wait to show you some of our autumn traditions!"

They landed without any further conversation, but as they exited the ship, the two Sefigans walked over to the same oak they visited a few months ago and stared up. It was practically glowing it was so bright with orange and yellow leaves. The wind gusted, and the leaves rustled and a small drift of leaves blew around them as they stared. They turned to the Captain, who had walked up next to them. "And, this tree is... not ill?"

She smiled gently. "Not at all. This is a fine Oak. Come the spring, it will be green and lush again. Come, I believe you are able to consume Apples. I have a drink called cider, and there are some pastries called apple cider donuts that have been prepared. They're popular on Earth at this time of year, in places that have seasons like this."

[yandere-daydreams]

Okay imagine

Being taken from your village to join the king’s harem. But suddenly, you’re demoted to a servant.

The personal servant of the king’s favorite concubine, who has become infatuated with you.

tw - imprisonment, unbalanced power dynamics, implied physical abuse, and manipulation.

i mean, it's not that unlikely. most concubines are more ambassadors than proper companions, little shows of goodwill to prove that the Emperor still cares about his people - even if he chooses to show his affection by occasionally grabbing up an orphan no one will fight to keep around from one of the all-but-forgotten villages on the outskirts of his territory and whisking you back to the palace., whether or not you care for the royal life. you met him once, on the day he collected you, but you haven't been alone with him since, much less performed the duties expected of you as a member of his harem. not that you mind. the Emperor is a... particular man, and if you're being completely honest, you'd alright never finding out if he treats his lovers the same way he rules his subjects.

your closest friend within the palace's walls has more luck with him, though. they're the clear favorite, and despite what the other concubines like to mutter about them in the shadows of the courtyard gardens, you can see why. they took it upon themself to approach you when you first found yourself in the capital, still shocked and confused after being dragged away from your home, and they're just so kind, always so willing to share the gifts the Emperor lavishes them with, always so happy to let you spend the night in their private chambers when you can't stand to sleep in the harems' dedicated dormitories, where all the other concubines seem to take so much joy in shunning you from their idle chatter and animated gossip. they're good at handling the Emperor, too, at stringing their requests for diamond-studded jewelry and wine imported for the other side of the world between skillful compliments and honeyed praise, and you've never once seen them falter in the face of his temper, even if they'll occasionally return to their chambers with swollen lips and bruises around their neck. you look up to them, in a way, even if you'd rather not take their place. you're glad you have someone like them so close to you.

you're glad you have someone like them, up until the moment you're told you've received a reassignment from the Emperor himself, up until the second you find yourself in their chambers as they fuss over your new uniform and wonder aloud what they should do with their precious little servant first. there's nothing you can do now, of course. to go against them would be to question the Emperor's decree, and you've seen what happens to the servants and the concubines who try to leave the palace, but still.

you can't help but wonder why the sweetness in their voice suddenly sounds so sickening.

[maximumwobblerbanditdonut]

Local Lens Scotland with Ewan & Colin McGregor

Ewan McGregor is coming home. This special episode of Local Lens, where the actor, director and goodwill ambassador reconnects with his brother, Colin, a former Royal Air Force fighter pilot turned instructor, in their homeland in the Scottish Highlands.

Ewan McGregor and his RAF fighter-pilot brother Colin take the trip they always dreamed of in the latest Local Lens episode directed by Stuart McIntyre, produced by production company Somesuch and serviced by production partner LS Productions.​

‘Ewan McGregor: A Brothers’ Guide to Scotland’ The chance to explore the Highlands, where they holidayed with their family as young boys, presented itself via Expedia’s Local Lens video series, and they seized it. The backdrop of the Cairngorms' lush mountains, shimmering lochs, and the majestic trees of The Hermitage forest, the brothers embark on a nostalgic adventure in search of the northern lights—a trip complete with laughs, memories, music, and sheep.

Ewan McGregor and Colin McGregor after taking to the skies over Scotland in an RAF Tornado jet. DAVID CHESKIN - PA IMAGES/PA IMAGES/GETTY

Produced by Somesuch for Expedia’s Local Lens series, the episode follows the pair as they travel from Colin’s home in Elgin, 175 miles north of Edinburgh, to the Scottish highlands in search of the northern lights.

​A love of adventure was a force bred strong in the brothers on childhood forays around their home country, forging an intimate bond. As Ewan says now, “When you know someone as well as your brother, you don’t need words.” They would take road trips with their parents, go hill-climbing, vacation on rugged Scottish beaches, and immerse themselves in water so unfathomably cold it fired them up for the rest of the day. “A lot of my memories are of us scrambling across cliffs and looking in rock pools,” says Ewan. “There’s a freedom about being a kid in this rugged, weathered landscape that’s just fantastic.”

A picnic stop reminds them of childhood: “Then, it was a white roll with one lopsided cheese slice”

The weekend’s adventure across the Cairngorms is no less memorable. Watch as Stuart candidly captures the pair as they bicker. Get nostalgic. Get side tracked. Even have a mishap with sheep and take a dip in a friend’s freezing loch. They stop for fuel and Tunnock’s teacakes, an iconic Scottish chocolate-and-marshmallow snack that transports them back to their childhoods. They have moments of awestruck silence and absolute solitude. But most of all, the episode touchingly records the brothers as they reconnect with each other—and with the spectacular, otherworldly terrain they grew up surrounded by.

The Cairngorms mountain range contains five of the six highest mountains in Scotland. Photo: Courtesy of Expedia

Stuart McIntyre a Canadian director. Recognised for his reverent depiction of sport and natural rapport with high-profile talent, his work is an exhilarating, high-octane style of realism.

The brothers emphasised spending some time in the great outdoors, hanging out with some friendly local farm animals, hiking through the Hermitage Forest, and trying to catch an elusive glimpse of the Northern Lights. Photo: Courtesy of Expedia.

Guests at the Ewe Bar can expect live music and a jovial, classic pub atmosphere. Photo: Courtesy of Expedia.

#Expedia

Photo: Courtesy of Expedia

The quaint one-bedroom cottage features a soaking tub, a fireplace, a zip line, and a fire pit. Photo: Courtesy of Expedia

"It's a very old, sort of rambly house, and the design of it is beautiful, very rustic and real," McGregor says of the Dell Cottage, where he stayed during the trip. Photo: Courtesy of Expedia

I love that they were making this video. This is the best one yet from Scotland. One’s a Hollywood star, the other a fighter pilot. But these famous brothers, have one key characteristic in common. Take in the majestic sights and sounds of the McGregor brothers’ adventure through the magnificent Highlands, on a voyage underpinned by childhood memories and encompassing the true and natural warmth and wit of Scotland. Jumping into lochs. Congrats to Colin and Ewan and Expedia Group who brought this wonderful film to life.

#Scotland #ColinMcGregor #EwanMcGregor McGregorbrothers #Highlands #ExpediaGroup #childhoodmemories #DellCottage #EweBar #RAFTornadojet #pilot #Expedia’sLocalLens #northernlights #StuartMcIntyre #Somesuch #LSProductions #childhoodbesttimeoflife #gettyimages #DavidCheskin #PAimages

Posted 25th March 2024

@hillandglen “Per Ardua Ad Astra” – Through Adversity’s to the Stars ✨

[victusinveritas]

Summer 1962. Rio de Janeiro. At the Veloso Bar, a block from the beach at Ipanema, two friends—the composer Antonio Carlos Jobim and the poet Vinícius de Moraes—are drinking Brahma beer and musing about their latest song collaboration.

The duo favor the place for the good brew and the even better girl-watching opportunities. Though both are married men, they’re not above a little ogling. Especially when it comes to a neighborhood girl nicknamed Helô. Eighteen-year-old Heloisa Eneida Menezes Pais Pinto is a Carioca—a native of Rio. She’s tall and tan, with emerald green eyes and long, dark wavy hair. They’ve seen her passing by, as she’s heading to the beach or coming home from school. She has a way of walking that de Moraes calls “sheer poetry.”

Legend has it that Jobim and de Moraes were so inspired by this shapely coed, they wrote a song for her right on the bar napkins. It’s a good story, but it’s not quite true.

While Helô inspired the song, it was another Carioca who carried it beyond Rio. Astrud Gilberto was just the wife of singing star João Gilberto when she entered a NYC studio in March 1963. João and Jobim were making a record with tenor saxman Stan Getz. The idea of cutting a verse on “Ipanema” in English came up, and Astrud was the only one of the Brazilians who spoke more than phrasebook English.

Astrud’s child-like vocal, devoid of vibrato and singerly mannerisms, was the perfect foil for her husband’s soft bumblebee voice. Jobim tinkled piano. Getz blew a creamy smooth tenor. Four minutes of magic went to tape.

A year later, the song was casting its quiet spell of sea and sand on the charts, washing past the Beatles’ “I Want To Hold Your Hand.” It peaked in mid-June at No. 5, selling over two million copies.

“The Girl From Ipanema” went on to become the second-most recorded popular song in history, behind “Yesterday.” Covered by an A-Z gamut of performers, it’s become the ultimate cliché of elevator music—shorthand for the entire lounge revival of the ’90s.

Over the years, Helô Pinheiro (her married name) enjoyed country-wide fame, ranking with Pelé as one of the goodwill ambassadors of Brazil. She never settled on an occupation, dabbling in acting, then running a modeling agency. In 1987, she posed nude for Playboy (and again in 2003, with her daughter Ticiane). In 2001, Helô opened the Girl From Ipanema clothing boutique in a Rio shopping center.

Shortly after, the heirs of Jobim (who died in 1994) and de Moraes (who died in 1980) filed a lawsuit, claiming Helô was only inadvertently involved in the song’s creation and didn’t have the right to use it for commercial purposes.

Helô says, “I never made a cent from ‘The Girl From Ipanema,’ nor do I claim that I should. Yet now that I’m using a legally registered trademark, they want to prohibit me from being the girl from Ipanema. I’m sure that Antonio and Vinícius would never question the use of the name.”

After much ugliness in and out of court, Helô was able to keep the name for her boutique. Today, she reflects on the early ’60s in Ipanema with nostalgia. “I like the time when everything was prettier because of love, as it says in the Portuguese version of the song. I am still touched when somebody plays the song in my honor.”

—By Bill DeMain

Image: As a teenager, Helo Pinheiro was a regular on Rio's Ipanema Beach

[royal-couplecats]

"I'll leave an autograph on your back!"

The art is inspired by the Seisakoku arc where Wolf writes a document for Goodwill Ambassador Hazel)))

[lets-curse-each-other]

"Money doesn't stink", or analysis of Mei Mei

Mei Mei's second name is "paradox". Almost every scene with her is a mixture of socially accused features and humanly approved virtues. We're getting acquainted with her during the Goodwill Event with Kyoto and our character perception changes within a few seconds:

she praises Maki - positive attitude:

she is actually corrupted - negative attitude:

The "simplicity" of Mei's aims and reasons could seem so petty 'cause they don't inspire, don't raise moral or aren't dramatic after all. She loves money, she works for it and does extra tasks only if she's well paid - nothing more. Similar situation was with Nobara:

I didn't like living in the middle of nowhere so I came to the city! This was the only way for me to move to Tokyo.

In ch. 5 Itadori represents the readers; he awaits to hear about tragic circumstances and grand higher purposes and gets ordinary wishes, human desires. "I'm not a hero, I'm a jujutsu sorcerer", remember? Gege is perhaps mocking (with respect of course) at the great anime titles (you know these guys, Naruto, Bleach, etc.) where the majority of characters are pompous in their achieving goals, usually these goals have dark and tear-jerking bases. It's not very human actually. I don't attempt to say that people in reality can't possess noble motives, however usually (USUALLY!) we're striving for common, necessary (or not), nice trinkets, not for "I WILL SAVE ALL THE PEOPLE BECAUSE I'M THE AMBASSADOR OF THE GOOD". Let's be honest, as well as we, Mei is just a human who is happy as fuck when sees her bank account has been replenished.

Nevertheless, she later helps the students with promotion by her (!) initiative. Mei doesn't take advantage from it, she's just admitted their skills without any prejudices and does them a favor. It could be the action of kindness or pragmatism because it's better for the sorcerers to accomplish missions according to their abilities and not stay on the plateau. Perhaps there was a possibility that Mei felt some kind of solidarity to Maki because their sorcery paths were alike, in a way. However, let's not forget her dogma: service potential is life itself for me. So for her courtesy she probably would expect from Maki reciprocal benefits.

She, surprisingly, isn't arrogant. Mei easily accepts others' suggestions (like with Utahime in Gojo's flashbacks), positively reacts to different plans and ideas, admits achievements and pays compliments:

"The Shibuya Incident" also shows Mei's contradictory character. We're getting used to her practical interests (even in her own family) and view on life as the goldmine of possibilities to get profit from everything and everybody, that observing such sincere empathy of her is really beyond our understanding. It's suspicious and confusing. Nice of Gege to not focus on one bright trait but to extend the personality further. That method helps readers always be a little bit shocked when there's this kind of a sharp transition: from "interested only in money venal person" to "caring, attentive and trustworthy fellow".

As far as concerned her past, Mei is likely from some minor jujutsu clan if taking into account the info from databook that the enrollment method was family lineage and Ui Ui's words about her "using family for employment". Howbeit, she inherited the cursed technique too weak to use alone, that forced her to train her physical abilities and develope skills of enhancing the body with cursed energy. Unfortunately (or luckily), she faced obstacles again: her body had a limit. She found strength to get back to basics, to her worthless at first sight inherited technique. Ironically, the thing that was useless at the beginning helped her to become a grade 1 sorcerer. It is necessary to admit how her highlight, main attack, reflects her life mottos in the best way. Are you ready to imperil yourself for me? Could i gain benefits from your sacrifice? Is your life able to help me in my aims?

Here there is a gist of her sympathy to Maki during the Goodwill Event. She realized how much effort, stubbornness Maki put into her achieving such excellent results without cursed techniques, not talking about mockeries and disrespect that the girl has to endure. In this aspect they are similar.

While on the subject of family and the Goodwill Event, I've been rereading ch. 40 (Mei's first appearance) several times and only now, as an afflatus, i realize that she could mean the connections between relatives/family traditions and its members. For her these formal bounds don't make sense at all. Everything should have its value, everything has a price. The idea is hard-nosed and unsentimental, but, you know, i like it in some way. I think you're familiar with a situation when you're obliged to do something for people just because these people are called your relatives. Mei's credo denies it. No profit, hence no efforts. Fair.

The battle between her and Kenjaku remained behind the scenes. And next time we see Mei (ch.133), her "betrayal" is obvious. I'm using quotation marks because, honestly, she acted logically, didn't change her businesslike habits. Mei Mei and her brother somehow could escape from Kenjaku, survived, and she immediately calculated the situation, grasped the outcomes of the Shibuya Incident and its winner and took the steps. Mei left the battlefield and her comrades fighting, but she and Ui Ui stayed alive. Therewith, her predicting the final, Mei saw no point in endeavors that would put her and her brother on the line.

Despite this, Mei does not avoid tragic consequences, in chapter 190 it is said that Ui Ui (most likely by the order of the elder sister) helps sorcerers in the colonies. I like how Noritoshi describes this type of relationship between Mei and the jujutsu society:

Risk diversification is the process of investing across a range of industries and categories. This ensures that even if some assets perform poorly, other areas can completely or in part cover the loss (source).

Diversification of risk is, therefore, a tactic to balance between maximising returns and minimising risks (source).

The siblings don't be in a hurry to jump into the deep end, despite the fact how tensed the situation is. They keep the distance, carefully help from comfortable positions, contribute gradually and cautiously. They will venture only when the game is worth the candle. Having such controversial characters on the side of good adds this very side more human features and realness. So I'm looking forward to see these guys' next actions.

[trillscienceofficer]

Behind him, the temple was now quiet. Garak sat back comfortably in his seat, bathed in the warm light of the candles. You might almost, Raffi thought, believe that he was at home. “There was a period in my life—my first exile, I call it, since my time on Earth as ambassador constitutes the second and this”—he held up his hands—“constitutes the third, when I hit rock bottom.” His hand went up to touch his brow. “Many years ago, still in my youth, but after my visit to Akantha, I underwent a procedure to install an implant that prevented me from experiencing pain. When I was forced to leave Cardassia Prime, I began to use the implant extensively. Continuously, in fact.” He gave her a bright smile. “I saw you, Commander, with the bud of the blood poppy. And I have read your file. I don’t have to explain to you, of all people, the use of medication for the relief of mental agony. One does tend to recognize a fellow traveler—and the life of the operative is… how should I put this? Stressful? Yes, stressful. I do not know your route to recovery, but mine was aided by the presence of a quite remarkable young man. A doctor…” He paused. There’s a story there, thought Raffi. I wonder when I’ll get to find out. “While I was recovering, I told this young man a series of stories about the reason I was exiled. None of them was what might be called a factual account.” “You mean,” said Raffi, “that you told him a pack of lies.” “Not that I would call them lies,” continued Garak. “Merely, variations on a theme of guilt. One of these variations—” “Lies,” intoned Raffi. “Concerned my involvement in aiding some Bajoran children to escape Cardassian captivity. What can I say? Starfleet officers are so terribly sentimental about children, and this seemed a sure way to earn this young doctor’s goodwill. I was very short of goodwill at the time, and very eager to secure his. It is with some alarm, therefore, that I realize that this story will shortly become completely true. I do wonder, sometimes, whether the wormhole aliens…” He looked around the temple. “Perhaps, here, on their own territory, I will call them Prophets, for fear of what else they might do to me. I do wonder whether they will continue to have their fun with me. I wonder what else they have planned. I have to say that I am flattered by their attention. I always believed that their interest was solely in Bajor, but perhaps the histories of our two worlds are now so tightly interwoven that we cannot help but fall within their purview… In which case, I should be glad, I suppose, that they are not vindictive gods. In the end, we all need some pity. Some mercy.” He sighed. “I am sorry,” he said, “that I said that you were broken. Who isn’t, when it comes down to it? Certainly none of us who live this kind of life. But I am sorry I said what I did. And I hope you will find whatever it is that will make you whole again.” “So do I, you sly old bastard,” said Raffi. Gently, she stroked the dog’s wiry fur, and he snuggled closer beside her.

— Una McCormack, “Second Self”

[ethicaltreatmentofcowplants]

Rags to Werewolves Challenge: Week Three

Min Jun earned another skill point, which I used to unlock the ENHANCED SMELL ability. So from then on it was scavenge, baby, scavenge...

Except not quite so close to Greggy's territory, maybe.

cw: vanilla gameplay pixelated nudity in one shot

It was Day Fifteen, most of what was spent on trying out the shiny new Werewolf ability. Which - if you do want to complete the Moonwood collection - is a very useful ability to have, as your Sim can scent out nearby treasure and dig it out. As it was, I just sold everything he found, the cheapest of which was around §75.

The glowing smoke effect above is found treasure. It can be hard to see if you've paused the game but easier if unpaused, since the movement is eye catching.

By evening Min Jun's social needs were getting a little low so I sent him to chill respectfully with the Collective. You can tell that he's not a Wildfangs girlie just by looking at him.

Another plus of his new ability? He also gets positive moodlets if he scents other werewolves nearby (though I haven't tried Greg).

Sparring also works.

Day Sixteen dawned wet and rainy so Min Jun took advantage of the wet conditions (pro tip: showering in the rain also 'relieves' a condition other than hygiene).

Alice Spencer-Kim must have had quite the view.

Then it was back home to decipher some cowplant skull engravings (something you can do if you've unlocked the LUNAR EPIPHANY ability) before he sold it for another §75.

I then sent him to Grimtooth to busk only guess which idiot showed up in broad daylight? Vladislaus not only has zero sunlight resistance, but the THIN SKINNED trait. I sent Min Jun to chill with the Wildfangs until he figured out to go home autonomously.

A quick snack mid busking, He could also grab free chips from the bar but it's fun to use the bunker.

He just reached Level 8 on the guitar, which as well as earning simoleons seems to garner some not exactly unwanted attention.

The bears arrived and were okay tippers, although they were pretty quick to judge Min Jun when someone howled nearby and the chain reaction inevitably occurred.

Thanks to a day of digging and busking, Day Seventeen finally sees Min Jun with a functional home! Well, kinda.

(I don't think he can woo hoo in that bed with vanilla gameplay, the way it's pushed up against the wall. But as long as he hasn't used it recently for a different purpose, that's what the party bush is for.)

He then hung around the Moonwood library digging up things and smelling new smells. Apparently Julia Wright's scent is just delightful (she's not stinky, that's just the enhanced smell mechanic).

I had finally figured out why the option to join a pack wasn't coming up (you need to be a friend of it first) so he wolfnapped the night away in the picnic spot. And for some reason on Day Eighteen he woke up very Furyous.

Kristopher was nearby and autonomously pacified him thanks Daddy.

And so Sul-Sul! He became a FRIEND OF THE COLLECTIVE.

The ghosts (and Lou) were also good tippers.

On Day Nineteen he successfully completed his pack trial (this is just friendly sparring guys, he's fine) and the Collective said "you can sit with us." He didn't make much money but since he'd completed the challenge goals of having a functional home, it was a day off grinding for him.

Day Twenty was spent busking at the Gnome's Arms, being a positive werewolf ambassador and extending wolfy goodwill not just to mere mortals. He also did enough gardening and fishing to level up a pack rank, which unlocked the PACIFY ability for him.

On Day Twenty-One he unlocked the ENERGETIC trait (even the Collective members are big on fitness) and cleaned off afterwards away from any judging non-wolfy eyes, in accordance with his new pack values.

This one final wolf bath pushed him over to the VETERAN level, so now he has near complete lunar resistance and - so long as his Fury's not otherwise close to tipping point - can pretty much ignore the Full. Less desirable was the NIGHT WOLF trait he unlocked, which wouldn't be great for a 9 to 5 gig but would make him a pretty helpful co-parent.

Later that night, he continued his Collective poster child good deeds by pacifying the Wildfangs (yep, we figured that they may need some help).

That red glow around them is not Fury (which looks slightly different) but the scent Min Jun gets from other wolves. Other occults have different scents, which have different effects - and well, you can probably guess what moodlet smelling vampires produces.

"Just your friendly neighbourhood Collective member doing his civic duty! Have a good night and remember not to piss on any doormats!"

While he had taken care of their Fury, the Full Moon still had them very angry. So off they stomped, likely to teach some poor vampire patron some very unfortunate lesson in (un)life.

He took advantage of his new LUNAR RESISTANCE ability to spend the night busking, and as the third and final week wraps up, that is where we will leave him. His house + yard are worth 8k, he has nearly 4k in savings, so I'd say it's been a success.

In sum, I really enjoyed this? Some of which was down to Min Jun lucking out with relatively benign werewolf traits early on (PRIDEFUL and EASILY EXCITABLE, which were easy to manage) and making sure to spend his skill points on abilities such as wolf bathing and napping that would compensate for the lack of four walls. Possibly the most useful was napping, as they can curl up anywhere to sleep, it is unlockable almost immediately upon becoming a werewolf - and they recharge in less than half the time of a regular human sleep, which allows more time for making money.

The bunker was not quite as useful - mostly I used it when he just happened to be nearby. It was fun to hang out in though, and convenient when he was at the bar.

Unlike any other occult, there's a random element to which werewolf traits you unlock, so I'd definitely be interested in trying with a second to see what differences there are.

[rabbitcruiser]

International Jazz Day 

Join your community in appreciating and recognizing the rich culture and heritage of jazz. Visit a local jazz club, or revisit some of the greatest musicians in history.

International Jazz Day is a beautiful time to celebrate the gift of music and to come together as a community. It’s a chance to listen to a variety of musicians and hear their talents live all around the world.

Learning more about the day will help any musical enthusiast to appreciate all the benefits of listening to jazz. Music lovers from around the world will gather to attend jazz festivals, parties, and events to help celebrate the day and this specific type of music. Now is the perfect opportunity to take up a musical instrument such as the trumpet, saxophone, piano or clarinet and start to make music so one can understand what all the hype is about.

International Jazz Day highlights the ability for jazz to unite people from all walks of life and draw together folks from around the globe. No one is left out, as this day brings together artists, schools, communities, historians, academics, and jazz aficionados to raise awareness around this type of music and educate the public about the roots, impact, and future of jazz. There’s a deep-rooted message attached to this day of celebration, such as reinforcing international cooperation and communication.

It brings to light the need for intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding through one of the best ways possible, music. The power of the music will be apparent when participants view people of all backgrounds, forgetting about their differences and joining together to celebrate jazz. Any adverse circumstances from the past or present are suddenly forgotten or pushed aside, and people begin to focus on friendship, freedom, hope, and dignity instead.

The day itself is intended to promote peace, diversity, respect among different cultures, and highlight the need for human rights and dignity. The music itself addresses the desire for eliminating discrimination and promoting the freedom of expression. Youth are also encouraged to participate by enacting change and helping to foster gender equality. One will have the chance to experience how much life and love emerges when the day kicks off, and musicians from all over begin to jam and play their music.

History of International Jazz Day

It all began in 2011 when the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization declared International Jazz Day as an opportunity to give recognition to jazz music and state its role to unite people all around the globe. It’s been going strong ever since and people look forward to this day each year when music lovers from around the world can share in the experience of listening to and making jazz music.

The idea itself emerged from jazz pianist and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock. Together, the UNESCO Director-General and Hancock chair the event and ensure people from all over come out to participate in the celebration each year. Cities such as Paris, New Orleans, and New York were some of the first to begin to educate the public on the event and draw excitement to Jazz Day.

The Host City goes as far as to organize an All-Star Global Concert which brings together over two-dozen jazz musicians from all parts of the world in or around a historical landmark. It’s interesting to know that the popularity of the day has grown immensely over the years. Now, nearly 200 countries participate in International Jazz Day.

You can visit just about any location and hear and experience jazz music at its finest. You’ll witness artists and onlookers expressing themselves in their own unique and individual way. Cape Town, South Africa is the Host City for 2020, so one should make a note of this if he or she wants to travel and see some of the best musicians perform their music live. Not only will there be music present at the event, but organizers are also planning an extensive educational and community outreach program for people to participate in and as a way for them to expand their knowledge.

How to Celebrate International Jazz Day

There are many ways for how people around the world can celebrate International Jazz Day. There is no right or wrong way to go about it, and all communities may have their unique take and twist on the day. For example, there may be live concerts and events to attend, and people might want to host their own parties.

Not only are there concerts and events taking place internationally, but many will also hold jam sessions and educational workshops and conferences, as well as organize community outreach programs. Anyone can locate and access jazz educational materials from the International Jazz Day website to help them run their event. The public shouldn’t be afraid to insert themselves in the conversation and start an event or discussion around the topic to help create awareness around the day.

The common denominator is that there will be a lot of jazz music to be heard and played. It’s an opportunity for those unfamiliar with this type of music to get more acquainted with it and learn about its roots and history. One can witness people of all ages and backgrounds moving to the music and enjoying themselves while the performers work hard to put on a show that anyone can appreciate.

International Jazz Day is undoubtedly a celebration to be aware of and take part in if a person is looking to expand their horizons and musical knowledge. There’s so much to see and take in around the globe when this day rolls around. There will be no choice but to participate in some sort of event that’s happening in the area. It’s a time to appreciate the musicians and their talents and bring people together to experience this particular type of music without any judgment.

Go ahead and give one of these events or jam sessions a try and see for oneself how engaging jazz music is and witness its ability to bring together people from across the globe and find common ground. Let this year be the year that people let their guards down and allow themselves to experience the day by listening, conversing, and moving their bodies to the wonderful sounds of jazz.

Source

[viatagrinner]

Rio Ortiz. Propose to you. Chapter 1&2

The event came out in May/June. Better late than never.

Chapter 1

Part 1/1

MC lives happily with Rio in Benitoit.

Rio: MC, thank you for today's work!

At night, Rio always comes to visit the girl with a cup of tea. He seems to like the habits he had when he was a butler in Rhodolite, and even after his memory came back to him and he became a prince again, Rio remained Rio.

MC: But you're probably more tired than I am.

Rio: I saw your face and it all went away at once.

Rio hugged the girl.

The heroine reflected on the fact that she needed a change in herself.

She needs to be educated, as a goodwill ambassador, he needs to appear frequently in the community and play a role in maintaining relations between nations.

But it's never hard for her.

(Because happiness conquers all.)

Rio: Hmmm, my MC is pretty today too! Can I kiss you?

Part 1/2

Without waiting for an answer, Rio kissed her.

MC: You never wait for my answer.

Rio: Because MC's face says it's okay.

If he had a tail, Rio would have wagged it so it would have burst.

MC hoped the happy days would last, but the shadows lurking in the yard were creeping up on them.

━━━━━━━༻❀✿❀༺━━━━━━━

The next day Silvio, grabbing the heroine by the hand, wants to show her something. She tries to refuse, but there is no easy way out of the prince's clinging clutches.

He takes her to the back courtyard of the castle and points to Rio.

Part 1/3

MC sees Rio and a young lady about her age. This young lady is the daughter of the Marquis.

He talks to her in a friendly way.

But Rio, who for many has become Prince Valerio, treats everyone equally. For this, he is loved by society, he is popular.

Silvio: Look, a man and a woman... Together, alone in a quiet place.

Silvio: If you think this is official business, your head is pretty empty, isn't it?

MC: Is it?

Silvio: ...What kind of crazy reaction is that?

Silvio sincerely doesn't understand and he asks the girl to look at his little brother better.

Silvio: In my experience, this kind of thing definitely says a lot about men and women.

MC: Lord Silvio, you still don't get it, do you?

Silvio: Huh?

They can't see the Marquise's face, but they can see Rio's. He was blushing, his eyes strangely glistening...

Part 1/4

MC tells Silvio that when his younger brother does that, he is probably talking about her.

Silvio: Ha, don't think that's convenient. Valerio is a bastard who wags his tail no matter who he is.

Silvio: It's only a matter of time before he dumps you....

But before he can finish his sentence, the Marquise runs past them with a sad expression on her face.

MC knows that Rio loves her. He saw MC and waved at her. Silvio clicked his tongue softly beside the girl.

━━━━━━━༻❀✿❀༺━━━━━━━

This evening.

In Benitoite there are parties almost every day. In Rhodolite it is often held for a friendly purpose, but in this country socializing is "business negotiations."

The heroine is molested by an aristocrat.

Part 1/5

(You don't know that I am the lover of Prince Valerio.)

She carelessly pulls away from the man who tries to take her hand.

MC: I'm glad to hear that, but I have Prince Valerio.

Aristocrat: I know that, but if you're just a "lover," chances are good that the prince is just having fun.

MC believes in the sincerity of Valerio's feelings.

Aristocrat: You are a pure and innocent woman. The court is a place of lust and hatred....

???: We'll think about the engagement.

Rio must be busy, but after hearing MC's "sweet" voice, he decided to see what it was all about.

Aristocrat: Well, there's no hope...

Rio: You seem to be my rival in love, so I'll be sure to remember your face.

Aristocrat quickly ran off after that, citing business.

MC: ....Thank you, Rio.

*A reassuring kiss on the forehead.*

MC tells him there have been several such advances.

Rio: There's no other way. MC is the cutest girl in the world.

MC: Only Rio says that.

But the girl thinks it's as if someone decided to break them up, hence the strange attention to her.

Rio offers to go out on the balcony.

Chapter 2

Part 2/1

Rio wants to be alone with a girl.

Rio: Besides, I wanted to flirt with you!

Rio, who hugged the heroine tightly, kissed her hair like a dog playing with her.

All the sadness immediately dissipated.

Rio: As MC said earlier, it's true that there are people who don't like us.

Now it's clear why there's so much aristocracy of their age around Rio and the girl.

MC: I'm not worthy or anything, am I?

Rio, with a dry smile, brushed aside the heroine's worries and stroked her hair.

Rio: The Benitoites and the Rhodolites are friendly peoples who have long been allies, but recently there have already been attempts to break the alliance between our countries.

The heroine is shocked because Obsidian is feared by the entire continent.

Part 2/2

Rio: The Benitoites are a business-minded country, and they're more focused on profit and loss than human kindness.

Rio: Obsidian has a lot of limited resources, and from a national defense perspective it's a worthy partner to cooperate with.

Rio: But since we've teamed up with Rhodolite, it would prevent us from interacting with Obsidian.

Rio: Of course, there are dissenters. Obsidian is an aggressor nation, and diplomatic relations are out of the question.

Rio: Besides, if we unite with Obsidian, Jade and Rhodolite would become enemies. Better to keep the Alliance. At least for the moment.

Rio: Politics is about changing public opinion depending on the situation.

(This kind of talk once again reminds me that Rio is a prince.)

Rio doesn't say which position is better or worse. It was a manifestation of his will to fairly respect the voices of the people as a prince.

Rio: That's why MC's presence is so important.

Her deep ties to the Rhodolite royal family will strengthen the Alliance.

The girl agrees, but her heart grows heavy. She knew her and Rio's relationship would be different from ordinary people, but there are too many formalities at times like this.

Rio: Personally, I am indebted to Rodolite.

Rio: I don't want to betray the homeland of MC.

Rio: But I don't want to put out the fire by force either.

Rio: However, this is all so that I can strike a blow to the forces that are tearing our relationship apart.

Rio: If there are people who want to separate me from my MC, then all I have to do is prove that no matter what they do, they can't separate me from you.

Part 2/3

Rio wanted to say something in the heroine's ear. But instead of words, he bit her.

The girl shrieked.

Rio: Ah... that was a nicer reaction than I thought it would be, I like that.

(I thought you were going to tell me a secret.)

He ended up telling her his plan.

MC: Are you kidding me?

Rio: Did those eyes look like I was joking?

He was serious.

Countermeasures against those who try to separate them are, to put it bluntly, difficult.

(But I have to do it.)

(Because that's the wall I have to overcome in order for Rio and I to be together in the future.)

They've already figured out a couple of people who are against their relationship. And in a couple of days, they prepared the "battlefield."

(That's a lot of people coming together.)

Part 2/4

Rio: Are you nervous?

MC: A little bit.

Rio was the main character today. Accordingly, and the girl was watched closely.

Rio: Then I'll put a spell on you.

He kissed her fingertips, palm and wrist.

But it didn't soothe, it only embarrassed the girl.

(....All watching....)

(.....That's right...Oh, the "operation" has already begun.)

Rio: Okay. But you can't show that face to anyone but me.

Rio: All the guests in this room will fall in love with you, right?

(I know it's all just .....strategy.)

So, It's called "Operation Lovey-Dovey."/ Operation "Lovely Flirting Big Strategy."

Plan: Rio and MC has to show the public that they are so in love that nothing can separate their, and those who are against their relationship will give up.

(But... no way!)

Rio: Your face is red, MC.

MC: .... You do too much.

Rio: But it doesn't make sense if you don't do that much, right?

Part 2/5

Rio is usually sweet, but today it's about 50% sweeter.

Rio: .......Ah, you're so shy, you're also sweet.

Viscount: May I have a word with you at .........?

Rio: Oh, you're the viscount....

(This is already Prince Valerio's face....)

The viscount hasn't seen the prince in years. But the man wanted to ask if the rumor was true.

Rio: Is it rumors of "too many casualties from too much cuteness?"

The viscount was confused by these words.

Viscount: Isn't this woman the daughter of a commoner?

[cinnamon-bunni]

UHH NOT ME COMPLETELY FORGETTING TO POST MY NEW FIC ONTO TUMBLR OOPS HA HA

Anyways! here it is! i am really excited for this fic!! i have a lot of plans for this fic, and hopefully i'll actually finish it; i have a bad track record of abandoning multi chap fics, and im hoping this wont end like that ^^; i have high hopes for this fic, and really want it to be my best work, so im gonna be putting my 110% into this lmao

anyways! the first chapter is under the cut, but please feel free to read it on ao3 as well! i have my own skin for this fic, and imo its better to read it that way (i mean, doesnt add anything important, but just more fun, i think). i also wont be putting the future chapters onto tumblr, only on ao3

pairing: luigi/peasley genre: fluff (first chapter) word count: 4.9k first chapter under the cut!

The Goodwill Ambassador Lady Lima is commanded by

The Prince to invite

the Mario Brothers            

to the Beanbean Kingdom’s Woven Hearts Festival

on the twenty-fifth of December,

at the Beanbean Castle.

Your presence would be greatly appreciated. The Festival shall be a great celebration, and I would love for you two to join!

Until then,

Prince Peasley

The letter was short and efficient, and it wasn’t anything Luigi didn’t expect as a formal invitation. Luigi had to say, he had never heard of the Woven Hearts Festival, but it wasn’t like he was too familiar with Beanish tradition in the first place. But he was excited to find out, especially since it was a chance to visit Peasley again.

In a different, more personal letter, Peasley had talked about how thrilled he was for the festival. Apparently the kingdom only celebrated it every ten years, so it was a pretty big deal. And with that, it was the first time that Peasley was hosting, instead of the queen. He sounded pretty excited about having that responsibility, and Luigi himself couldn’t wait. While the festival itself was only a week away, Peasley had requested for them to arrive as early as possible, and Luigi wasn’t one to disappoint. Besides, more time to catch up and be in the prince’s presence was something Luigi would enjoy, and if he could be of use to help with preparations, then it would be even greater.

Sadly, Mario couldn’t leave as early. Toadsworth had requested that the cheap cheap problem be dealt with sooner rather than later–which meant that Mario was going to be down in the sewers to deal with the fish that had made a home there. It wouldn’t be more than a few days of work though–maybe even only a few hours if Mario was lucky enough that the problem wasn’t that big, as Toadsworth made it seem.

But he insisted that Luigi go ahead to go down to Beanbean Kingdom. Just because he had to work didn’t mean that Luigi had to wait to see his boyfriend. “I’m sure you’re just dying to have some alone time with him!” Mario had reasoned, and while Luigi did indeed look forward to the idea of seeing Peasley again, it didn’t stop him from his face turning a bright red for Mario to laugh at.

So Luigi, with his packed suitcase, headed off for Beanbean Kingdom. Nervousness as well as excitement swirled in his gut, as the thought of seeing Peasley again, as well as celebrating an obviously important festival, brought a jumbled bunch of emotions into him. It was clear that it was very important to Peasley–and as an extension, the kingdom as a whole–and Luigi wanted it to be sure it was as special of a moment as Peasley seemed to want it to be. But nothing was going to ruin it, of course not; Luigi was determined and confident that it was going to be a completely normal vacation with many exciting moments with the prince. It was going to be fun, and Luigi was going to relax.

The Beanbean International Airport had been bustling with life when Luigi landed. Beanish people and many others flew in, more than likely for the same reason Luigi had. He would’ve been worried about finding a place to stay–with so many visiting, he was sure that hotels everywhere in the kingdom were booked up to the brim–had it not been for his confidence that Peasley would insist that he stays at the castle. The prince would rather be transformed back to Dragohoho than be a less than stellar host. Luigi had doubted that, but Peasley always insisted that it was true.

“I want nothing but the best for you, my love! It is the least you deserve, for everything you have done for me and my kingdom. And if the way I pay you back is through lavish staying conditions, then so be it! Nothing less than best for you, Greenie.”

It still made Luigi’s face burn up when he thought about it.

By the time he had left his terminal, Luigi’s nerves only increased tenfold. Not in an anxiety-inducing way, no, but in an excitement mixed with a healthy amount of restlessness. A whole week and weekend to spend on a vacation sounded wonderful, and Luigi was quite excited for it to start. He hadn’t even left the baggage claim area before he heard shouts over the bustling people.

“Luigi! Over here!” Luigi’s eyes searched through the sea of people, only to land on the prince of the Beanish Kingdom. His smile was bright and lit up the whole building, and his beauty was just as radiant as Luigi remembered. The prince’s outfit was the same as ever, sans his characteristic cape. In its stead was a thick, cream-colored scarf tied around his neck.The smile that grew on Luigi’s face was wide as he waved over the prince.

“Peasley!” he greeted, and was instantly met with a hug. Luigi let out a low chortle as his arms instinctively returned the action, and gave a tight hug back. The prince pressed a kiss onto his cheek.

“I’ve been waiting for so long for your arrival! I have so many things planned for us, and I’m sure you’ll love it.” He pushed himself off of the plumber, but kept steady hands on his shoulders. He looked around the terminal. “And where is your brother?”

“Oh, about that; Mario ended up being dragged into some work before the flight left. But he promised to arrive no later than tomorrow afternoon!”

Peasley tsked. “Well then! I’m afraid we’ll just have to get started without him, won’t we?” A hand trailed down his arm, down into his hand, which Peasley held onto. Luigi responded with his own squeeze of the hand. “I was thinking we first head for some coffee–we have so much to catch up on, don’t we? And what better to do on a cold day than have a warm beverage and some exchanges of stories?”

Peasley took the lead, through the crowds that parted way for the pair like an ocean. The second they stepped out of the airport and into the fresh air, Luigi’s body began to shiver. He knew it would be cold–it was in the middle of winter, after all–but he hadn’t considered wearing any of his warm clothes that he had packed. How Peasley was able to wear his normal, out-of-season clothing and not even flinch when a harsh wind blew against them, Luigi would never know.

On the way, Peasley spoke about the different kinds of festivities he had planned, how excited he was to be planning the whole thing. The Hearts Woven Festival was a big deal in the kingdom, and he wanted it to be the best for his subjects. He talked about all the different plans he had for the festival, all sorts of decorations and games and stalls, all sorts of plans that made Luigi think about the carnivals that the Mushroom Kingdom had on special occasions. The only difference he found was that the whole celebration was over two days; one day was filled with the festivities that Peasley rambled on about, with the next day holding a gala-like party in the castle. They reveal the Harmony Heart, as a symbol of the kingdom’s unity. Determination bled into Peasley’s words, and no doubt was the prince set on creating the best festival that he could. And Luigi didn’t doubt his partner’s abilities—Peasley could do just about anything he set his mind on, and if he wanted this to be the best festival that the kingdom has ever thrown, then Luigi was confident that Peasley could pull it off.

When they entered Castle Town, it only hit Luigi then just how thrilled the rest of the kingdom was over the festival as well. He supposed it made sense–it only came around only every ten years, and was the biggest event, according to Peasley. The Beanish around them all wore grins on their faces, with laughter and cheerfully chatter filling the air. There were ones who were setting up different food stalls, games, and things of the like around, and others who were putting beautiful decorations of pennant flags tied from pole to pole, balloons and streamers everywhere, and artwork being done on the freshly built wooden stalls. None of it was close to being done, no, but Luigi could tell with ease just how much care and work was being put into this. 

“We should deal with your luggage first,” Peasley said absentmindedly, more to himself than to Luigi. “We’ll drop it off real quick, and have someone bring it to your room. There’s just so much I want to talk to you about and show you!”

“We have a whole week, Peasley,” Luigi reassured with a smile, “it’s fine if we take it slow.”

“Oh, but so many things to do in only a week, my love! And I don’t want to waste a single second with you.” Peasley continued to lead Luigi, a clear goal and plan in his head. Luigi didn’t mind too much–he enjoyed getting to see how the town was getting ready for the festivities.

The castle matched the town in its decorations almost perfectly. The color scheme was the same–a pattern of gold, white, and red adorned the castle and its town–and lines of pennant flags were tied across from wall to wall. The guards on duty seemed to be in a jollier mood too, even when Peasley requested them to take hold of Luigi’s luggage and find a handmaid to go and put his suitcase into the guest room he’d be staying in.

The pair finally got inside somewhere warm when they entered the Starbeans Café. The warmth of the heaters blasting throughout the building was extremely appreciated by the plumber, and Peasley hummed in glee as he rubbed his hands together. 

“It doesn’t seem to be that busy, luckily for us,” Peasley commented. “Do you mind finding us a place to sit while I order our drinks?”

“Alright. Could you get me-”

“A chuckoccino?” Peasley offered a playful smile. “You’re a man of habit, you know.” Luigi couldn’t help the chuckle that slipped through his lips, or the heat that consumed his face. No matter how much he tried to pull his hat down, he couldn’t hide how flustered he was. Why did Peasley always do this to him during the most mundane of situations?

Peasley only laughed again before he walked off.  Luigi found a quiet table against one of the walls, with a large-scale window right against it with a great view of the town. The clouds that blanketed the sky blocked out a good deal of the sun’s light, and the dark hue made him wonder if it were ever going to rain. Or would it snow, based on how cold it was? Luigi would’ve definitely preferred the latter.

It didn’t take long for Peasley to return with their drinks. He placed down the mugs gently on the table, and Luigi dragged his own over. The two beverages steamed, ready to burn any mouths that attempted to gulp it down. Luigi blew on the drink, and took the tiniest of sips. He hummed in delight, the warmth of the small amount of liquid already making him content.

“You know, you’ve never told me what the festival is about,” Luigi mentioned. Peasley, who was mid-sip of his drink, gave a small nod.

“Oh yes,” he said, putting down the drink. “I can’t believe I completely forgot to explain it to you! Do you truly not know anything about it?”

“I never heard of it until yesterday, honestly,” he admitted. Luigi felt a bit bad for not being aware of customs and traditions of the Beanish as he should, but he was met with a smile from Peasley.

“Well, I’ll do my best to keep the story short. But, it started a long time ago–a few generations after the kingdom was created with the Beanstar. I told you about that story, didn’t I? How a lonely king wished to create his own kingdom, but everything always went wrong? And then a star came down and blessed his good heart, and his wife with the most beautiful voice in the land?”

“Well…no. But I think maybe we should stick to one story at a time.”

Peasley chuckled. “Yes yes, of course.” He started to trace the rim of the mug with his index finger. “Well, the Beanbean Kingdom was flourishing for a while, and all was well for everyone. But, it was said that outside of the kingdom walls, out in the sea and the fields and mountains, that evil and darkness incarnate existed. They wanted to have the Beanstar for themselves. But they never could get in the kingdom, for the walls were too strong. And so, instead of trying to destroy it with brute strength, the darkness and evil decided to instead slip through the cracks of the walls, and sneak in.

“While the darkness couldn’t be there physically, it started to slowly affect the citizens of the kingdom. It started to take over the kingdom’s people, and took over their souls, infecting them with darkness and evil. The kingdom started to fall apart because of it. The king lost many of his people to it–he even lost one of his sons, and only daughter to it, too. The kingdom was collapsing, but the king stayed true to himself. He did everything in his power that he could to save everyone, and refused to let himself succumb to evil.”

Peasley gave a sad smile as he continued. “And then his wife ended up falling into it. The loving queen, who had always been by his side, was starting to get taken over by it. And the king just couldn’t accept this reality. And from his strong emotions–his need to save her, his grief and determination that came from it, and the goodness and purity of his heart, the Harmony Heart was born.” Peasley paused, for a few seconds, and then hummed as he moved his hand down to drum on the table. “None of the texts that we can find talks explicitly of how though, only that it just…appeared. Odd, but I guess we’ve never really questioned it. It was a miracle afterall, one that saved the Beanbean Kingdom.

“But I suppose that fact doesn’t matter,” Peasley sighed, not letting a single thing get in the way of his story-telling. He then gave a triumphant smile as he continued on. “As I said, the Harmony Heart was created. And with that, the king was able to use that power and rid all of the evil and darkness within the kingdom, and bring light to all! He was able to not only save his wife from it, but all of his subjects as well. The Heart took the king’s heroicness and purity, and was able to spread it all across the land.

“And so every ten years we throw a festival and feast to celebrate not only how we’re still here today, but also that the Heart is what keeps us united and is what keeps that kingdom-falling evil at bay.” Peasley, as though on a final note, took a sip of his drink. “That’s about it, really. I’m sure I’m missing a few details though–the story got a bit…muddled throughout the years, but that’s the gist of it.”

“Wowie…” Luigi hadn’t even known what to say. A long–but apparently short by Peasley’s standards–story, but one of triumph and success. The Mushroom Kingdom had many like it, but the Beanbean's were quite unlike stories he had heard before.

“The festival sounds fun,” Luigi decided on. “A-and, I can’t wait to see what you have planned for it.” Peasley’s smile grew more by those words, and Luigi couldn’t help but reciprocate that grin. Peasley’s eyes shone a brilliant yellow, bright with excitement, and Luigi felt like he could get lost in them for hours on end.

“Oh!” Somehow, Peasley’s excitement grew even more, his voice light with giddiness. “I should show you around Castle Town so you can see how much we’ve gotten done!” 

Luigi was sure that he had seen quite a bit just from traveling to the coffee shop. But if it made Peasley happy, then he wouldn’t mind a stroll through the cold, but cheerful, town. Who was Luigi, to dampen his boyfriend’s clear excitement?

He barely got in a nod as an answer before Peasley quickly downed the rest of his drink and got up from this seat. He then stuttered a bit with his actions, and  sat back down as Luigi took a slower sip of his own beverage.

“Ah–perhaps I got a little bit too excited,” the prince admitted bashfully. Luigi offered a comforting smile. He could tell how restless Peasley was, but that was understandable. It was obvious how much Peasley cared for this event, and just wanted to show Luigi everything he was working on, and how he was proud of it, and Luigi couldn’t fault him for that.

Peasley, while Luigi worked on his drink, continued to talk about the festivities. He spoke about how the Hearts Woven festival was in fact celebrated over two days–one entirely of a fun festival in Castle Town with music, food, games, anything that could be imagined–and then a ball on the next day, held within the castle–more of an esteemed event, Peasley explained, with it being focused more on the royal family and how they watch over and protect the Harmony Heart. Luigi froze a bit at the mention of a formal ball; he had been to plenty in the Mushroom Kingdom and Sarasaland that he was familiar with the customs of a ball, but any sort of thought of a social affair could make his stomach drop.

But, it would be fine. Luigi knew that it would be fine. Peasley would be there, and Mario had said he would arrive no later by the next day. Besides, Luigi knew how to handle himself in a crowd–he had gotten a lot better at it when compared to the first ball he had to attend, back when Mario saved Princess Peach for the first time from the demonous claws of Bowser. That had been a disaster. But now it would be different, because, even though at times it didn’t seem like it, Luigi had gotten more confident in himself. He could handle himself just fine.

By the time Luigi was finally done with the drink and warming up inside of the shop, he had to brave out into the cold air once more. Once again, Peasley didn’t seem that affected by the freezing air. Just a small adjustment of his scarf, and he continued on, and dragged Luigi further into the depths of Castle Town. Luigi understood how excited Peasley was, he really did, but why couldn’t they go on a tour around the growing festival another day? Preferably when it was warmer?

Luigi suddenly caught on as to why, though. The whole town was hard at work–many of the wooden stalls were still being put together, along with many other mechanics for other, more complicated and bigger pieces of the festival. There were many Beanish who were up on high ladders, all still putting up decorations on the buildings. Heads started to turn, more and more of them, as murmurs grew in the crowd. 

“Your Highness!” one squeaked out, rushing over. “Thank goodness you’re here! Tell me: which colors would look best? I want to paint our sign a lovely shade of green, but my husband insists that we go with red. I tell him time and time again that red does not suit the colors of the festival, but of course he thinks he’s the artistic one out of the both of us.”

Ah, that’s right. As a prince, one who was fully in-charge of the event, of course Peasley had to watch over everything, and make sure that every little detail was right. The citizens needed his approval on just about everything, and would need his help, as well. It would also explain why Peasley was so quick to rush into the coffee shop–the second he would be spotted, he would have to start up again with his princely duties, and he was just so excited to spend time with Luigi. 

But, Peasley didn’t seem to mind at all. Which didn’t surprise Luigi; Peasley had always been one who was always so happy to help out others around him. And seeing as how it was his subjects who were requesting for his opinions and help, how could he say no?

Luigi got distracted from Peasley and the Beanish’s conversation. There was a shaky ladder in the corner of his eye, and Luigi rushed over to help. He was, afterall, nothing if not helpful. Getting people out of pickles, whether it be others, himself, or his brother, was just something that was second nature to Luigi. Second nature to Mario too, he knew. They just loved to help people out, and whether this was what Peasley had planned to happen or not, Luigi would never oppose helping someone out. The ladder steadied when Luigi was able to get a firm grip on the base of it, keeping it still from any more shaking. The Beanish on top, who was in the middle of tying a pretty bow in golden ribbon, looked down and gave a “hey, thanks!” before focusing back on their work.

As Peasley slowly started to get surrounded by work, trying to advise how the festival should not only function, but look (“no, yellow roses! Not lilies, those are meant strictly for funerals. Why would we want white lilies in the first place? Roses are a much better choice!”). Turned out, he had quite a bit to do. Luckily, Luigi’s presence was just as appreciated; as it turned out, having an extra set of hands was something that many of the townspeople needed (“oh, how lucky we are to have a carpenter here!” He was not a carpenter, but he did know his way around woodworking tools, so Luigi never corrected while he helped out building stands and stalls).

Luigi was also a bit surprised to see how many of them remembered and recognized him. Yeah, he and his brother did save their kingdom, but he just wasn’t used to all of the attention. The questions if he was actually the Luigi that saved them, voices filled with an attempt to keep their enthusiasm hidden, always made Luigi stutter a bit as he nodded yes. The attention was new, but not unwelcomed. He couldn't help but wonder if this was how Mario felt all the time, in the Mushroom Kingdom. If it was, he wasn’t sure how Mario could handle it all the time, or have the energy for it. Just a small con of being the kingdom’s hero, he supposed. 

The small looks Peasley sent Luigi never went unnoticed. The smiles that the prince gave were often met with shy ones from Luigi. Small waves exchanged between the two, along with a few words when they were close by, until one or the other was whisked away by a townsperson in need of their help. But of course, the smile Peasley wore never left as he helped–whenever Luigi’s eyes fell back onto the prince, the smile was always graced upon his face.

And, down the line, they did end up doing what Peasley wanted to do in the first place. Luigi got to take in the hard work the Beanish people were putting in for the festival. They were proud of their work, that much was obvious, and Luigi believed rightfully so. The games he got to survey, treats he got to taste-test, and artwork he got to take in were all incredible in their own ways. The effort that the kingdom was putting into the festival was clear; they all deserved to feel pride over their work.

The pair worked well until the evening, with the sun falling behind the mountains. Luigi would say that he was hungry for dinner, but with all of the different savory foods and sweets all given to him–followed by questions if it was too salty, if it needed more sugar in it, if maybe perhaps a maple glaze would work well with it–it was safe to say that his appetite was well taken care of. Although, the only complaint that Luigi had was that even with his gloves on, his hands were starting to freeze. He definitely wasn’t bundled up enough for the cold, and with the moon starting to come up, he knew he would have to get warmer clothes if he wanted to stay outside.

Thankfully though, Peasley seemed to have wrapped up what he was doing. Promises to his people were made, that he would come back in the afternoon to be of more help. It wasn’t until the last person left did Peasley let out a slow exhale, with his shoulders coming down into a more relaxed position. Though his smile never left, it was clear that he was on the edge of exhaustion. The prince was good at hiding it at times, but Luigi had learned his tells well enough to see.

“I believe it’s time for us to head back,” Peasley said. Luigi nodded in agreement, and the two were off towards the castle. “I don’t think the chefs are quite done with it, though–I’ll have to check up on that. But, as you wait, you can decompress in your room.”

“I don’t mind the wait,” Luigi said. “I, uh, got quite a bit of food from the chefs cooking the festival foods. They were a bit filling.” A nervous chuckle followed, but Peasley simply hummed.

“Well, even so my love, I’ll be sure to come by to pick you up for dinner. I’m sure my mother would want to properly see you as well, and getting those formal greetings is often best done over a meal.” Luigi didn’t mind that. The queen was a bit…intimidating, he had to admit, and carrying a conversation with her with the chance to stuff food into his mouth to prevent words and stutters from pouring out seemed ideal. He also hadn’t seen her in quite a bit of time–the last being when he and Mario had to save the Beanstar, and that wasn’t quite a formal or proper time to really discuss anything or have her ask a plethora of questions.

Once they entered the castle, Luigi first noticed the way it buzzed with life. It was clear that many of the staff members were helping out with preparations as well, and weren’t letting anything distract them from their tasks. Diligent guards kept a keen eye out (or, maybe not so diligent, based on how a group of them chattered and a lone one snored away while standing); many maids and butlers walked with a pep in their step, letting Luigi know that it would best if he did his best to stay out of their way.

Peasley led him to his room, where his suitcase had been placed on the otherwise untouched bed. With Peasley bidding a goodbye to let Luigi rest for a short while, Luigi was finally able to get off of his feet. Exhaustion weighed heavier on his shoulders than he had originally thought, Luigi realized as he all but collapsed on the bed. He just couldn’t help it–the room was warm, the bed incredibly soft, and after a tiring day, it was nice to settle into. It was practically inviting him in, and Luigi wasn’t one to say no to comfort.

He wasn’t sure how long he had laid there for. It must’ve only been a few minutes though, and too early for Peasley to come back to alert him of dinner, but nevertheless, there was a knocking at the door. The quick and hurried type, with urgency behind each sound. Confused, Luigi sat up, staring at the door. He only then got up to his feet when another set of raps hit the door, just as fast and alarming as the last set.

Luigi opened the door to reveal a worry-filled Peasley on the other side. There was a smile on his face, more likely to be used as some sort of cushion or reassurance, but it didn’t match his eyes that were filled with fear and concern.

“Peasley? Is something wrong?” A dumb question on his part, he internally chided to himself–of course something was wrong.

“Ah, yes my dear, you see- well-” It wasn’t like Peasley to stutter his words like that. Something big must have definitely happened. His hands were constantly shifting as he tried to gather his words, and Luigi hesitantly went forward to grab one of the prince’s hands. Peasley grabbed onto it, and gave a gentle squeeze as he took in a deep breath. His voice, steady and sure of itself, announced something that made Luigi’s eyes widen.

“The Harmony Heart has gone missing.”

[thezfc]

If he was anyone else I’d say mind your own business but how can you be a goodwill ambassador and not have a stance?

But honestly, what difference does it make? This isn’t a celebrity endorsing a candidate we can vote for. I think the people in Gaza have more to worry about and then if Tom Hiddleston picked a side. 

[arcticdementor]

Swaying the wide world, I have but one aim in view, namely, to maintain a perfect governance and to fulfil the duties of the State: strange and costly objects do not interest me. If I have commanded that the tribute offerings sent by you, O King, are to be accepted, this was solely in consideration for the spirit which prompted you to dispatch them from afar. Our dynasty's majestic virtue has penetrated unto every country under Heaven, and Kings of all nations have offered their costly tribute by land and sea. As your Ambassador can see for himself, we possess all things. I set no value on objects strange or ingenious, and have no use for your country's manufactures. This then is my answer to your request to appoint a representative at my Court, a request contrary to our dynastic usage, which would only result in inconvenience to yourself. I have expounded my wishes in detail and have commanded your tribute Envoys to leave in peace on their homeward journey. It behoves you, O King, to respect my sentiments and to display even greater devotion and loyalty in future, so that, by perpetual submission to our Throne, you may secure peace and prosperity for your country hereafter. Besides making gifts (of which I enclose an inventory) to each member of your Mission, I confer upon you, O King, valuable presents in excess of the number usually bestowed on such occasions, including silks and curios-a list of which is likewise enclosed. Do you reverently receive them and take note of my tender goodwill towards you! A special mandate.

The Qianlong Emperor, in his 1793 letter to King George III

[caffedrine]

Rio Ortiz Romantic Chapter 25 Summary

This is mostly a summary for me - I make no promises on the accuracy of what’s happening. I’m not nearly fluent enough to get half the jokes/innuendo much less accurate plot points.

After completing her duties as Belle, Emma has left the court to resume her normal life. At the bookstore, Rio is pleading with the bookstore owner, Akatsuki, for his blessing on Rio and Emma’s marriage. For everything that has changed, some things will always be the same. The very normal interaction between Rio and Akatsuki helps ground Emma.

Akatsuki is not pleased with Rio at the moment, as he fears that Emma, who is definitely not his daughter, would be in danger if she was with Rio any longer. Over the course of less than a month, Emma’s home was set on fire and burnt to the ground, assassins were shooting arrows at her, and she had to fret over Rio for a good week while he recovered from a bad stabbing. Honestly, the best thing for Emma would be for Rio to leave her be.

Rio concedes that Akatsuki has some very good points. And there is the chance that Emma would have a happier, normal life if she was with someone else. Everything that happened was because Rio got her involved with internal Benitoite affairs, something that he would love to apologize a million times more for. But, using that logic would be to ignore Emma’s own wishes, which are to be with Rio.

Emma chose to stay with Rio even when everything was burning down, and her own life was in danger. She stayed with Rio through his fight with his brother, and after every horrible thing that had happened to her, she still loved him. It would be denying Emma’s own agency to throw her away for someone else at this point. Emma has chosen to stay with Rio, so the only responsible thing he can do is make her the happiest person in the world.

Rio loves Emma more than anyone else ever could and wants a future with her more than anyone else would. And Emma cannot fathom a world where she would be happier with anyone other than Rio.

Without answering Rio, Akatsuki looks at Emma and asks her what her plans are. Emma explains that the letter Emidio gave them was real, Rio’s father, the King of Benitoite, has invited her to his country. Granted, there had been several developments since the letter had been received, necessitating Rio’s delayed return. However, since the affair with Emidio had been settled, Rio cannot linger in Rhodolite any longer and must return.

Previously, with assassins after Rio, and Emma’s role as Belle, they had agreed that she would not accompany him. Now, with Emidio incapacitated, and Emma free from her role, Emma is accepting the King’s offer.

When she had finished her duties as Belle, she had a long conversation with Sariel. He had pointed out that if she were to stay with Rio, Emma would need far more education that the slipshod version she received as Belle, including etiquette, dance, politics, economy, and history. Furthermore, she has deceived the Royal Family of the very country she intends to visit.

There is a relatively simple solution, Emma can continue with her identity as a noble lady from Rhodolite and join the Rhodolite Embassy in Benitoite as a goodwill ambassador. Her duties would be to strengthen the friendship with the nobles and the royal family of Benitoite. And hey, she is already at a great start with the Royal Family.

Unfortunately, this means Emma would need to leave the bookstore for good. Akatsuki understands, he knew that someday Emma would look up from her romance books and focus on the world in front of her.  Moved to tears, Emma thanks her father.

Akatsuki: I’m not your father.

Rio is also happy with the idea of Emma becoming a goodwill ambassador. He wonders if he should return to being her butler to help her through it. At Emma’s look, Rio assures her that few nobles outside of the Royal Family would recognize them, they could totally pull it off.

Then again, he already did make a promise to be the kind of person that Emma would want to show off as her lover. So, he’s probably going to have to stay a prince and be involved in running the country. Emma recalls that once Rio adamantly wished to stay away from national affairs, but now he is looking at her with clear blue eyes.

Rio wants to be able to use his name to protect Emma. Also, if he stands at the front of the stage, he will be able to do more for his country than he could from the shadows. Rio wants to say goodbye to Valerio the coward.

Emma understands that if Rio becomes politically active, the amount of malice around him will increase. But at the same time, the number of allies will also increase. There was a firm determination in Rio’s eyes as he accepted that he was going to have to protect many things that were important to him. Rio as a leader would certainly shine like the sun.

Emma may have fallen in love with Rio again. Rio gushes over how cute Emma is and hugs her.

Akatsuki: No hanky-panky in my store.

Rio was reluctant to let Emma go, and Emma could understand. Even though this contact was overall trivial, it makes her happy. Love really is something.

Akatsuki is convinced by Emma’s decision and gives them his blessing. However, if it grows too hard, Emma always has this store to return to. Smiling cheerfully Rio assures him that he will make Emma happy. Akatsuki admits that after three years of watching him, he believes that Rio could do it.

Time moves on

Rio and Emma left Rhodolite on a sunny day, the sky the same clear blue as Rio’s eyes. They traveled along the sea for several days before arriving at the Benitoite court. While Emma has read about the Benitoite royal palace in books, seeing it firsthand was something else. While Rhodolite’s castle was beautiful, Benitoite’s palace was a different beauty.

The castle walls were light and shone, reflecting on the many pools and streams. The shining sun gave it a jewel-like gleam, a beacon in the country of sea and trade.

The front of the castle is full of servants and people, all overjoyed at seeing their prince return after three years. While Emma only had stories of Valerio told to her by Rio, it was obvious that the servants loved had loved him. No matter how much Rio talked about how horrible and selfish he had been, something must have shone through to touch all these people.

Jingle-jingle.

Silvio pushes his way through the crowd to greet the shitty dog and cocky girl. Even though it had been several weeks since Emma has seen Silvio, he hasn’t changed at all.

Emma had already chosen the king and left the court by the time Silvio left for Benitoite, but she had heard what had happened. There had been a few more talks that had gone nowhere fast, and then the princes returned to their respective countries. Gilbert, the focus of the rumors, had left for Obsidian without promising peace or negotiating a trade pact. Neither Keith nor Silvio had made any notable bargains or agreements before they returned either. In the end, it had just been one very tense social gathering.

It is an unsolved mystery why the Prince of Obsidian wanted to join the peace talks in the first place, as he was uninterested in forming a treaty of any kind. On the other hand, he had not put any effort into revealing Emma’s status as Belle and taking advantage of Rhodolite’s weakened position. In the end, Emma just couldn’t understand Gilbert.

Silvio interrupts Emma’s thoughts to say that he has been waiting to thank them for some time. Emma sees what Silvio is holding and instantly feels sick to her stomach. It was a beautiful, pale rose jewel in a golden necklace, the pride of Rhodolite craftsmanship.

Oh, yeah. That.

Silvio notes that this is worth 100 million gold coins. So why, pray tell, did he pay 10 billion gold coins for it?

Rio snarks that with Silvio’s finances, 100 million and 10 billion are pocket change. Honestly, he’s surprised Silvio even noticed. If anything, he owes them for the effort they put into acquiring it. Silvio starts twitching at Rio’s bright smile.

Silvio asks Emma if she recalls his warning to her. That if Rio spent his funds irresponsibly, she would be held responsible? Emma insists that it was a necessary expense. Rio adds that the remaining 9.9 billion gold coins are shipping and handling expenses. They worked hard and fought off thieves and robbers to safeguard this jewel for Silvio. Speaking of which, Rio guesses that Emidio was the one who arranged for the thieves to attack him.

Silvio: Oh, no. That was me.

Emma and Rio both goggle at Silvio, before Rio, starts to reason it out. He was wondering why Silvio didn’t go to the auction, even though his business meeting was moved the night before. If he matches the timeline, that was the night that Emidio first presented himself at the castle. Silvio must have arranged the auction to keep Emma and Rio from running into Emidio that night.

Silvio agrees, Emidio already knew about Rio and had arranged for assassins. Until then, Silvio had tried to arrange things so that Emidio and Rio wouldn’t clash, but that had gone out of his hands. Then he figured that he would put Rio into a dangerous situation and try to awaken his sense of danger. When that had failed, he had left the palace so that Rio and Emidio would meet at the Embassy, though he had not anticipated Rio bringing Emma along with him. Honestly, do either of them have any common sense?

Back to Silvio’s original point, though. Rio and Emma owe him 9.9 billion gold coins, and he expects them both to work hard to pay it off. Rio agrees, Silvio’s help is worth that . . . only in a world where Rio has suffered a traumatic brain injury. He was abused by Silvio using him as a servant all that time in Rhodolite, and his service is worth 10 billion gold coins. Silvio disagrees, if anything, Rio’s only worth 5 billion gold coins.

Emma wonders at the progression of terms Rio uses to refer to Silvio. It had started with ‘Prince Silvio’ to ‘Jingles’ to ‘Older Brother’ and now it’s just ‘you’. Seeing how openly antagonistic Rio is with Silvio, Emma is reminded that they really are brothers.

Silvio is telling Rio that if he wanted 10 billion gold coins of service, he should have told Silvio about Rhodolite’s weakness. Rio insists that there is no way he ever would, does Silvio not realize at this point who Rio’s lover is? Silvio reminds Rio that he should be on Benitoite’s side, and they had an opportunity to control Rhodolite which Rio squandered. Rio refuses to betray a country to which he owes a debt of gratitude. Both Benitoite and Rhodolite are important to him.

Emma recalls one afternoon, three years ago, when Rio hated Rhodolite. She had hoped that he would fall in love with the city and the country and treasure it as much as she did. Eventually, he had, and seeing Rio the Prince repeat that sentiment touched her heart. Even with his memories as a Prince of Benitoite, Emma was certain that Rio would also take good care of Rhodolite.

Silvio throws up his hands in disgust, complaining that Rio has grown very impertinent. At that moment, a new figure emerged from the crowd, and Emma recognizes Carlo. He apologizes for interrupting Silvio and Valerio’s brotherly reunion, but he made the arrangements Valerio asked him for. Emma can see several court maids behind him.

Rio apologizes to Emma, even though they just arrived this day to court, there is a formal reception tonight. Emma recalls that Rio asked his father to arrange a very public display of his return. What Emma said back in the bookstore is now put to the test, as she will debut as a goodwill ambassador from Rhodolite.

Rio wishes that he could help Emma with her preparations, and Emma assures him that she understands. He has his duties, and doubtlessly many people have been waiting for him to return. The maids will be fine in helping Emma prepare. Laughing, Rio kisses her forehead, to the approval of the crowd.

Silvio complains that Rio is pissing him off, and grabs Rio’s head. He is honestly surprised that after everything they’ve been through together, Emma didn’t wind up leaving Rio. More than that, what is with Rio’s welcome back party, what happened to Valerio the Coward?

Rio tells Silvio that he is done sneaking around and hiding. From now on, Silvio should prepare himself, as the battle for the throne is not over between them.  Rio wants Emma to love Benitoite as much as she loves Rhodolite, which means that Rio protects both her and the country. And the easiest way to do that would be from the throne as Benitoite’s king.

Silvio clenches his hand harder on Rio’s head and asks what fool would give the throne to a fucking dog. Suddenly Silvio lets go of Rio’s head and acknowledges Rio’s declaration. Silvio will crush Rio in the battle for the throne.

That night Emma attends the ballroom, whose large windows overlook the endless ocean. It was so different from Rhodolite’s ballroom that Emma felt like she was on a different continent. Emma is going to have to get used to the sea.

Escorting her, Rio asks if Emma is starting to like the view, and Emma nods. She looks around at the actual guests, admiring their clothes. She wonders if it’s a cultural difference that the gowns look far more opulent than Rhodolite’s fashion.

Even though she is using this as a debut of sorts, the party is for Rio, so they both have the attention of all the attendees. She had thought she had mentally prepared herself for this while riding with Rio, but now that she’s here, her knees grow weak. She mentally walks herself through the events, first, she will dance with Rio, then she will present herself to the King, and then  . . .

Rio thought Emma would like the Benitoite ballroom. He admits that back then, the Rhodolite ballroom had dazzled him as well. Very gently, his fingers tighten on Emma’s hand, and she feels like he’s trying to tell her that it will be okay. Rio continues the low conversation, noting that she only ever danced that one time with Gilbert. Emma assures him that Sariel had been teaching her dancing, and she can probably manage it.

Rio doesn’t mind how Emma dances. The only important part is that Emma enjoys herself, and trusts his lead, he won’t let her make a mistake while she is with him. Emma can’t control her smile as Rio winks at her. Rio is a good dancer, and as long as Emma is his partner, he will love every moment of it.

Eventually, they make their way to the middle of the hall where the dancing is and bow to each other. As the music picks up, they begin to dance together. As it turns out, Rio wasn’t lying, and he is a good dancer. The flower-patterned lace dress he chose for Emma spreads out as they dance, and Rio compliments her. The fear and anxiety melt away from Emma’s heart.

Whether she is in the Rhodolite Court or the Benitoite Court, there has always been the same person at her side encouraging her. It has always been Rio, the one who makes her laugh and smile, the one who was able to pull her out of her world of books to spend time in the real world. She thanks Rio for giving her a reason to smile, and for loving her.

Rio grumbles that Emma is mean, saying all that in this situation where he can’t easily kiss her. Suddenly he intertwines their fingers and holds her to him as they dance. He confesses that even when he loved her, he never dared to dream of the day she would love him back. Right now, he feels like he is in a wonderful dream. Emma tells him that this is too warm to be a dream and Rio laughs. Emma is right, she’s here, and he’s here. He will always be here.

Rio asks her to stay with him forever. He loves her so much he is afraid of himself. He wishes that she would only look at him, and only think of him.

Eventually, the music stops and she and Rio exchange formal bows once again. The room erupts in applause and once again, Rio takes her hand. He leads her to the deepest part of the dance hall, where the King and Queen of Benitoite are. Emma is going to meet Rio’s parents.

Their exchange is brief, but Emma can feel the love between the three of them. Rio introduces Emma as the one he wrote about, who saved his life and turned him from a beast into a human, to his beloved parents.