#more objective photo selection tomorrow

[steppingonyourshadow]

Selected excerpts from GQ February 2024

His is a face that's constantly under a microscope. A few months ago, his studio posted a series of photos for his birthday. Sharp-eyed netizens noted immediately that his face had "become rounder". In order to play Guo Jing of Tsui Hark's Legend of Condor Heroes, Xiao Zhan put on weight before filming began. His face was no longer so narrow, and he had obviously bulked up. The photos showed him with a scattering of stubble, a little rough.

Strictly speaking, Legend of Condor Heroes is Xiao Zhan's second movie. There have already been many iconic portrayals of Guo Jing, so the pressure was obviously on.

The day of the GQ cover shoot, Xiao Zhan got up early to go for a run. He couldn't help but worry that he'd lose muscle mass from sweating so much, and hesitated over whether to continue. Finally he decided to do a full 30 minutes. After that, it occurred to him that he wouldn't start burning fat until 30 minutes in, so he did another 10.

It's all for the sake of the job. "Actually, I'd rather not be running - it decreases muscle mass. But I have to, to get rid of bloating." After the shoot, no matter how late it got, he plans to go do more weight training. The discipline of an actor is the constant process of creating their character's look, all the while strictly controlling their diet and maintaining their figure. Xiao Zhan sees both as standard and imposes this standard on himself.

I was curious how he felt having been under constant scrutiny these past few years. I wasn't expecting him to say that it was barely on his mind most of the time, and hadn't brought much disruption to his life either, that the "cruelest" thing was "not being able to eat whatever I want".

"I still sneak out for a bike ride, or a walk. I've been spotted just the once, within five minutes of walking around a Hutong. I've also snuck into cinemas to watch movies, no one cares that you're there, really. Once you're away from the internet, a lot of problems just solve themselves. Sometimes we think what's in front of us is the whole world, that's a mistake, but one that can't be avoided. Nothing to be done about it."

There are lots of things he wants to do, like ride the subway, go shopping. "I really will use the subway, maybe tomorrow, nothing extraordinary about that. I used to do it every day."

For Xiao Zhan, this is real life. He's no longer bothered by social media comments.

"If I still let it get to me after all this time, what kind of life would I live?" He laughs. "Really, it's fine."

Right now, Xiao Zhan is very satisfied with his life. "I have my work, my own life, and an audience that appreciates me. Nothing to be dissatisfied about."

To an extent, Xiao Zhan's relaxed state stems from increasing clarity about his goals. Outside voices no longer bother him, he knows what he wants and what he doesn't want. Right now, more and more he's trying to simplify. In the past two years, he hasn't done much variety, choosing to focus on acting as his most important goal.

Three shows in which Xiao Zhan played the main character aired in 2023. Each character was a challenge in different ways. During the interview, Xiao Zhan said "it was a lot of pressure" many times, in relation to each of these stages, but his tone was always light, nothing of the heaviness of someone bemoaning difficulties, and more like an analytical mindset after the event, with concrete and objective reasoning: this show was the first time he did green screen, that one was his first solo lead role, first contemporary drama...

Where Dreams Begin was a script Xiao Zhan loved. He really likes stories from that era. When he was a kid he watched Bloom of Youth and Happiness As Flowers. In his mind the 70s and 80s shine brightly, in vivid colour.

Many say that the character of Xiao Chunsheng is perfect, but Xiao Zhan saw this as his greatest flaw. He found the character very interesting and wanted to give it a go. Xiao Chunsheng is a Beijing kid. How to convey his demeanor and speak in authentic Beijing dialect was no small challenge to Xiao Zhan who grew up in Chongqing.

The Longest Promise's Shi Ying is cold and aloof. Because he didn't want to disappoint everyone who had high expectations of his guzhuang look, Xiao Zhan pushed himself above and beyond to lose weight before filming began. "The Longest Promise was a script I got in 2020. Among the ones I had to choose from, it was the one with the most well-rounded characters, and the most nuanced relationships. Plus, it had a strong sense of internal logic and coherence. So it was my best choice."

Sunshine By My Side is the one Xiao Zhan had been considering the longest. He was given the script in 2019. Sheng Yang may be in the same line of work Xiao Zhan had been doing before debuting, but he wasn't certain he could recreate the life of a designer for the screen in a natural, believable way.

Recently, Xiao Zhan found an old book at home - Danshari [book about decluttering and optimization of the home by Hideko Yamashita]. It had been recommended to him by his boss when he was a designer. What the book said about organising one's life made him rethink what he wanted, and what he ought to leave behind.

"Contemporary and slice of life dramas were a totally foreign territory for me." At the start he was to eager to finish his lines, having them memorised back to front. But no one in real life speaks like that. Later, he realised that there was a particular logic in where to pause and where to place the emphasis in a line in a contemporary drama.

For example, when he decided to be an actor, and that he didn't want to do anything else other than acting. "If you try and force me, then let's have the debate. There's no such thing as right and wrong, my people are only looking out for me, isn't it positive to have so much work? But for me, I need to simplify my life. Because there are some things I definitely don't want."

Xiao Zhan's acting career began with an "ordinary overage guy pursues his dream into the entertainment industry" story. He went into a survival show at the age of 24, learned to dance as a total novice, debuted in a boy group, acted in internet dramas, played bit parts in movies, until he hit it big in 2019 and became an attention-grabbing star.

If you choose to do something, then give it your best. That's what Xiao Zhan was taught from a young age. When he was in junior high, his parents bought him a cellphone. Initially when he sent text messages he'd use spaces in place of punctuation. But his father said to him very severely, "where's the punctuation, why isn't there a question mark at the end of your sentence?" So now Xiao Zhan always pays attention to punctuation.

Xiao Zhan has had a competitive spirit since he was a child. So long as it's something he can control, he'd rather not miss a single opportunity. He used to take the bus to school and get anxious on behalf of the people who fell asleep and missed their stops. For the things he can't control, he'd remind himself not to get too caught up and learn to accept the outcome. And before that, do everything he can the best he can.

When asked which of his projects had come about following a lot of effort on his part to land it, Xiao Zhan's response is surprising. He says, "all of them". Before he made it big, he auditioned a lot. Once he'd passed the interview stage, gotten into the final round, even did trial shots with full makeup, and was still replaced. Now of course people pass him scripts, but Xiao Zhan always tells himself, that's just an expression of interest which can be given to many people at once. If he encounters a script he really likes, he'll set up a meeting with the director and talk to them about his understanding of the character. He feels it's important to display the right attitude.

Xiao Zhan grew up just like any other 90s kid - his parents worked, his grandma did all the cooking, he went to school every day, came home, and if he did poorly in an exam he'd get a beating. They ate dinner at 6:30 every night, and then his friends would call for him to come down and play Hide and Seek, Red Light, Green Light, or Hopscotch.

His face shines when he speaks of this time. These ordinary little things all seem rare and precious now. Xiao Zhan says he's grateful for those first 23 years before his dream-like brave foray into the entertainment industry. "I really value those times, I think it was great."

He thinks that if he hadn't entered the industry, he'd probably be living like his classmates and friends, taking clients out for dinner only to come home and do more overtime to finish his design work overnight, day after day.

"Being seen" makes him happy. No matter how busy he gets, Xiao Zhan never complains. "If there's work to be done, then do it properly." While filming The Oath of Love he was also recording the variety show Our Song. Whenever he had a moment between scenes, he'd put on headphones and sing along softly. When his costars came over out of curiosity, he'd give a sheepish grin and explain that he was practicing the song he had to sing that night. "There's no time, really none." Back then, work took up pretty much his entire life.

Xiao Zhan will almost never give himself a holiday. "Unrealistic," he says firmly. When he's exhausted enough, he can fall asleep sitting upright on set.

This year, Xiao Zhan felt a sense of urgency stemming from "not enough works". "Compared to some of my seniors, when they were in their thirties they already had many credits." He clearly understands that a huge breakthrough in his acting skills from just a single piece of work is unlikely. "That probably won't happen for me."

He's considered whether he wants to be an actor with a unique individual style or a crowd-pleaser. His answer is the latter. "They might not be fans of yours, or even feel very positive toward you, but when they know you have a show on, they think, maybe I should check it out, his shows are all pretty good. That's what I want, that's my current goal. Whether I can reach the level of the actors I admire, that's a long road, I'm going to take my time."

"Make more shows, work with more good people, that's the current goal. I'm not thinking about the rest right now," Xiao Zhan says.

[I'll translate and post the Q&A segment later.]

#Xiao Zhan #text translations

[fioreofthemarch]

Finding Her - a field log

Link makes notes, takes photos and keeps time on his quest across Hyrule, in the hopes of finding Zelda and staying sane until he does. [ Next | AO3 ]

Booting... Booting... The current date is: 999999–!!! Error: Memory exceeded !!! Please select calendar convention for date calibration.

> New Hylian Calendar

NHC convention selected. Calibrating… The current date is: 104 AC (After Calamity). 5th month, 12th day. This time of year is commonly known in Hylian nomenclature as Spring's End. Save settings?

> Yes

Date confirmed.

* Welcome to the Purah Pad *

The Purah Pad is a state-of-the-art, fully portable adventure-class Sheikah Slate. The Purah Pad can be used to:

View far-away objects using the Scope

Take photographic images

View maps and current location (requires Sky View data)

Teleport instantaneously to travel gates registered to the Purah Pad

Record materials, creatures, monsters, and other objects found in Hyrule

Log activities and requests received from fellow travelers

Take additional field notes, as required

The Purah Pad is currently in development. We are not accepting feedback at this time.

Please direct any complaints to Symin at Hateno Village Research Laboratory.

Log date 09:55. 5th month 12th day 104AC Location: Great Sky Island. Weather: Mild. Clear skies.

Arm hurts, really hurts. In a bad way. Master Sword is damaged, or worse. What the hell happened down there?

It's bright here, gotta be high up in the sky. Were there always islands here?

A green construct-type person (like Guardians but with a face?) had this Purah Pad. Looks in OK condition. Zelda would know more. No sign of her. Apparently she's nearby, in a temple.

Not sure how many logs to make. Normally Zelda’s thing. I’m used to her being here. Used to the sound of her voice. Will just take notes until she’s back. Not sure how, but will find her.

Have to find her.

Log is accompanied by a picture of a Zonai Steward Construct. Its large, see-saw head is angled slightly to the side, as if perplexed.

Caption: He seems friendly.

Log date 12:30. 5th month, 13th day 104 AC Location: Ukouh Shrine Weather: Mild. Partly cloudy.

A lot has happened. Arm still hurts, whole body hurts. Rauru (source of arm) has been helpful. Not sure if he's trustworthy but no choice. Have to find Zelda, no matter what.

There are Shrines here on this sky island - deja vu. Seem older than the Sheikah Shrines though.

This arm and its powers are something else. Made a raft with fans. Put them on the wrong way, fell off the raft. Tried again a few times until it worked. Repeat.

Two more Shrines left, maybe next time Rauru will give me the power to summon a hot meal. Click of the fingers and snap: fried eggs. But probably not.

A photograph of some roasted mushrooms beside a fire, slightly charred, as a Zonai Steward Construct looks on.

Caption: These will do for now.

---

Log date: 16:30. 5th month, 14th day 104 AC Location: In-Isa shrine Weather: Mild. Partly cloudy.

Stopping to catch my breath. Going to sit by this Shrine a while.

Got this Fuse ability. Feels good to have a sword even if it's made from a tree branch and bits of dead robot.

Sword arm is not what it used to be. Reflexes slower too. Can feel the gloom under my skin. Fought a Captain Construct, got hit one too many times. Some bad bad bruises but the Light of Blessing healed them up quick. Mostly pride hurt now.

Back to the Temple of Time tomorrow. Zelda’s not far, can feel it.

A photograph of a fused rock-hammer weapon, resting against the weathered structure of a Shrine of Light.

Caption: Using a rock to break rocks!

---

Log date: 20:55 5th month, 14th day 104 AC Location: Temple of Time Weather: Cool. Clear skies.

It doesn't make sense. She was here, and then she wasn't. In the Temple of Time. Or her spirit? A memory? An echo? That's what Rauru called it. Said it was Zelda's sheer will, but how can he know? He won't even say who he is.

She looked so different. She looked.. divine. And then she gave me something. I can feel the name of it on the wind - Recall

She’s gone. But where? What happened to her?

Gonna leave this place tomorrow, just need to find that last Shrine. The fire's burning low but the nights here are short. There's something up above, the Purah Pad compendium calls it a Light Dragon. Currently watching it swim circles in the air til sleep comes, and then will see what tomorrow brings.

Zelda’s out there somewhere. Gotta find her, and put everything right. Don’t know what I’ll do if I don’t. Hope wherever she is, it’s warmer than here.

A photograph taken from below of a golden dragon, floating peacefully through the air.

Caption: How's the weather up there?

#totk #tears of the kingdom #tears of the kingdom spoilers #tloz #tloz fanfiction #tears of the kingdom fanfiction #zelink

[marina41trench]

Izumi Iori - PTT Xmas RabbitChat 2/5: Immersed in Otters

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5

Tsumugi: Thank you for your hard work at the site!

Tsumugi: It was really cute seeing you and Riku-san play with the otters!

Iori: Thank you for your work as well.

Iori: I have expected that that was the job's objective.

Iori: Anyway, isn’t Nanase-san a bit too feisty today?

Tsumugi: He looked like he really enjoyed it!

Because he was truly looking forward to today's location!

Iori: I don't mind that. But I’d be more grateful if he’s more composed.

Iori: Thanks to that, I was completely soaked.

Tsumugi: It’s the time where they went wild in the shower room! ><

Is your body chilly?

Iori: The water was warm so I’m fine. I can’t believe he turned the faucet on while the shower head was still in place.

Tsumugi: He must’ve been completely absorbed looking at those otters!

Tsumugi: Thanks to you, your suggestion that getting your clothes soaked was alright helped!

Iori: It's just because of my presumption that otters are very lively animals.

Iori: Well, I’m glad that Nanase-san wasn’t completely soaked.

Tsumugi:

Tsumugi: It was well-received by the staff as well!

Tsumugi: The producer praised both of you, saying that the way you looked after them feels like IDOLiSH7!

Iori: I'’m sure they captured that image.

Tsumugi:

Iori: By the way, Manager. They took some pictures of us. What is it for?

Tsumugi: They thought it would be great if the fans would be informed of the situation at your work!

Tsumugi: They captured a lot of pictures where the two of you were taking care of them!

CHOICES

1) Such as a photo of Riku-san putting otters to sleep…

Iori: They fell asleep while he's singing a lullaby.

The otters looking very comfortable as they sleep was really memorable.

2) Such as a photo of Iori-san giving otters food…

Iori: They were skillful eating with their little hands.

They finished eating in the blink of an eye, I wish I could see more of it.

3) Such as a photo of the two of you giving otters a bath…

Iori: Nanase-san looked happy and said, “They were cute playing with a duck toy.”

I was soothed by it as well.

Tsumugi: It was very cute!

They took a lot of photos of other things as well!

Iori: Can you send the photos to me? I want to give it a review before it gets released to the public.

Tsumugi: Sure!

Tsumugi: It only contains pictures of otters, is that okay with you?

Iori: Selecting photos will take time, so please send all of it.

I believe it's quicker, please do it tonight.

Tsumugi:

Tsumugi: I’ll send it after this conversation.

Tsumugi: I believe you’re on day-off tomorrow, so please take it slowly.

Iori: Leisure is a bit difficult, but I'll make sure I'll take a rest.

Tsumugi: Do you have any plans?

Iori: I'll have a group study with Yotsuba-san.

Tsumugi: A group study! That reminds me, Tamaki-san also mentioned it!

Tsumugi: If he gets a failing mark, he gets supplementary lessons that overlap with the Christmas Party, right?

Iori: Yes. Thanks to that, he’s more determined now.

Tsumugi: Thank you for doing your best in school, even though you're busy with work!

Tsumugi:

Iori: Studying won't be difficult.

Teaching Yotsuba-san will be a review for me as well, so it won't be a problem.

Iori: Also, I had him accompany me in dance practice between studies recently.

Tsumugi: That reminds me, the two of you practiced until late.

Iori: Yotsuba-san is better at dancing.

His instructions are somewhat easy to understand, and his advice is on point.

Iori: I wish he could use that to focus on studying as well.

Tsumugi:

Tsumugi: It’s give-and-take!

He has my support so that he doesn’t get failing marks!

Iori: He will study under me, so I will make sure he doesn’t get them.

Tsumugi:

#idolish7 #i7 #rabbichat #rabbitchat #izumi iori #iori izumi #english translation #translation #ptt xmas

[shizuokadivision]

Silent Tragedy Drama Track 1 - Now We Got Bad Blood

Pt. 4

— Early Morning, Apartment Complex, Tokyo Area —

[A young woman who appears to be in her late 20s lies asleep in her bed. Loud snoring can be heard as she continues to sleep without a care in the world. All of a sudden buzzing noises fill the room as the woman's phone lights up with multiple texts. The woman not expecting the sudden noises wakes up with a startle falling off the bed in her shock.]

Karen Hojo[1]: *rubs head* Who the crap is calling me so early in the morning?

[Karen reachers toward her phone on the nightstand seeing multiple messages from her coworker. The most prominent one being “Since when were you entering the Division Rap Battles?”.]

Karen: *confused* The hell? I’m not entering that stupid tournament.

[Karen quickly texts her coworker back asking what she means. Karen gets texted back a link to a newspaper article about the competition for choosing Shizuoka’s representative for the D.R.B. scrolling through the article Karen lets out a sharp gasp at the photo of the leader of the team known as Silent Tragedy. Now she knew why her coworker thought she was entering. A photo of her baby sister emotionlessly gazed back at her. The same sister who she had been told died in an explosion. An experiment gone wrong she recalls the Chuohku member telling her and her parents when she appeared to inform them about Kanon’s death. Karen thought it was suspicious that they had never managed to find her body. She had never voiced it aloud but she always thought Chuohku had a hand in Kanon’s death. The only thing stopping Karen from investigating Chuohku was the fact that anyone who did ended up disappearing. Now seeing her sister alive and entering the Divison Rap Battle well it didn't take any of Karen's investigation skills to see that it was suspicious. Something had gone down between Kanon and Chuohku and Karen was determined to figure out what.]

Karen: Okay Kanon’s alive. *pauses* Kanon’s alive! She's alive…..and she didn't tell me! *her joy quickly turned to anger* When I get my hands on you Kanon. I’m going to make you regret coming back from the grave. Not telling your big sister that you're alive. 

[Karen can be heard continuing to threaten Kanon under her breath. A plan formed in her head with the first objective being to go down to Shizuoka and give Kanon a piece of her mind.]

— Later That Evening, Kito-gumi Main Base, Sakura’s Office  —

[Kanon, Reika, and Sakura are busy researching other teams and working out strategies with the plan to have one more practice before going against their final opponent in the selection tournament tomorrow. All three woman quickly turn their head as they hear the door being opened revealing Shinji with an apologetic look on his face.]

Shinji: Forgive me for bothering you but it appears a bunch of miscreants causing trouble in our warehouses near the port. 

Sakura: *sighs* Great. Just what I need right now. I’m afraid we're going to have to cancel practice you two. 

Kanon: Not necessarily Sakura

Sakura: *raises eyebrow* Explain. 

Kanon: We can use this to our advantage. 

Reika: *realizes what Kanon is implying* You want us to go down to the port and use our mics against them.

Kanon: Exactly. 

Sakura: Sure why not? It’s not the craziest idea that's come out of your mouth.

Reika: Making a bunch of people piss their pants? Sign me up.

Kanon: So were all in agreeance to go down and practice on a bunch of fools? 

[Reika and Sakura nod their heads.]

Sakura: Shinji please get the car ready. It seems like the three of us have some miscreants to destroy. 

Shinji: *bows* Right away ma’am.

— Warehouse Area, Shimizu Port, Shizuoka City —

[A group of thugs gathers outside the warehouses. A boombox is heard playing loudly as the group cheers at the sight of a few of their members destroying the property surrounding them. The sound of a gun going off echoes throughout the area a bullet flying past several of the members and hitting the boombox effectively silencing the machine. The sound of footsteps can be heard as the group of things turn to see Silent Tragedy approaching them.]

Reika: *whistles* Nice shot.

Sakura: As if I would miss such an easy target. 

Kanon: Well it seemed to gather their attention. *points to the thugs*

Sakura: *snorts* Now then. I’m giving all of you one chance to get the fuck out of my territory before I force you out. 

Thug 1: How are you gonna do that? There's only the three of you to our over thirty. Even with that gun of yours, it'll be hard.

Sakura: Why I'm glad you asked.

[The members all pull out their Hypnosis Mics to the group's shock. All three woman activate their microphones each one shifting with their speakers rising behind them]  

[Kanon:]

Shut your mouths and hear 

I'm the one you need to fear 

So many bodies a rife 

Leave if you value your life!

Don't make me tell you twice 

[Reika:]

Fools thinking they can cause trouble?

Oh I’m about to burst your bubble

You’re not even worth the time 

Filthy and covered with grime 

Know your place under my heel!

[Sakura:]

I warned you didn't I?

Now its time to say goodbye

Trying to run? 

When I've already won 

Be glad I'm feeling nice today!

BOOOM! WOOOSH!

[A loud thundering noise is heard as an invisible force crashes into the group. Many of the group are knocked out by the force of the blow and those not knocked out are too injured to move. Seeing as the group wouldn't be moving anytime soon the three women deactivated their mics.]

Reika: Well that was fun.

Sakura: I’ll inform Shinji to get the police to pick these guys up. Why else am I paying them for? 

Kanon: Time to get some rest you two. We have a big day tomorrow.

— The Next Night, Nihondaira Arena —

[It was now nightfall in Shizuoka and the arena was buzzing with energy. 20,000 spectators filled the seats each one unable to contain their excitement. Tonight was the night that two teams will clash for the title of Shizuoka’s representative for the Division Rap Battle. Everyone wanted to know who would win Stellar Choir or Silent Tragedy?]

[Both teams were currently waiting in their respective room waiting for a staff member to tell them to come on stage. Even from inside the stadium could the members of Silent Tragedy feel the excitement. Reika was doing one last check-up on her appearance. Sakura was texting some of her men who were in the crowd. Finally, there was Kanon who looked downright bored at the whole ordeal, staring blankly at the wall opposing her.]

[All of a sudden the door burst open Karen Hojo entered the room her eyes looking around the room before landing on Kanon. Reika and Sakura nearly fell out of their seats at the sight of someone who could pass for Kanon’s double. Kanon jumped up at the sight of her older sister.]

Kanon: Karen?!

[Karen said nothing as she approached Kanon a look of anger on her face. A loud smack is heard as Karen slapped Kanon with enough force to make her stumble. A look of surprise formed itself on Kanon’s face both at the sight of her sister and the slap she had given.]

Karen: That was for making me think you were dead.

[Pulls Kanon into a hug. Squeezing the scientist with all her strength.]

Karen: This is for not being dead. 

[Thousands of emotions were running through Kanon’s head. She wasn't sure what to do in this situation. However, Kanon settled on awkwardly hugging back her sister.] 

Reika: Not to ruin the moment but Kanon who is this?

Karen: *releases Kanon* Oh right! I'm Karen Hojo, Kanon’s older sister. Nice to meet you.

[Reika and Sakura stare back at Karen both of them wondering if they're having some sort of fever dream at the sight of a second Kanon brightly smiling at them.]

Karen: Reika and Sakura right? Your Kanon’s teammates. Nice to see she's made friends. Kanon used to be so shy around people. Like this one time she- hmph.

[Kanon places her hand on Karen's mouth making her stop talking. A faint blush on her face.]

Kanon: Karen what are you doing here?

Karen: Well when the sister you were told was dead suddenly shows up not dead. You go and try to find out why.

[A faint look of guilt forms on Kanon’s face at her sister’s words. Kanon opens her mouth to explain when a staff member arrives signaling that it's time.]

Staff Member: Excuse me, it’s time.

Kanon: Well talk when I get back.

[Leaving Karen in the waiting room the members of Silent Tragedy leave following the staff member and stepping on the stage. They were bombarded by what was in front of them. The blinding lights, the sounds of screaming and cheering fans, and their opponents standing a few feet away from them. It cemented their goal of winning the tournament. Reika waved her hand at the sight of people from her charity foundation. Giving a small smile at the sight of the children who were cheering for her. Sakura gazes around at the crowd stopping when she found Shinji along with some of her men. Giving a quick nod in their direction. She nearly tripped at the sight of them pulling out fans with her name on them. And finally, Kanon stared blankly at the opposing team each one of them feeling a shiver down their spines.] 

[Finally, the announcer entered the stage mic in hand. A Chuohku official from the look of her uniform something that made all members of Silent Tragedy scowl at her. Raising her mic to her mouth the audience quieted down as she began to speak.]

Announcer: Ladies and Gentlemen! This is the final round to determine Shizuoka’s representative for the Divison Rap Battles! Which of these two teams will emerge victorious and go on to Chuohku to represent Shizuoka?

Announcer: *points at Stellar Choir* Stellar Choir? *shouts and cheers*

Announcer: *points at Silent Tragedy* or Silent Tragedy? *deafening screams and cheers*

Announcer: Now time to see who performs first! Heads for Stellar Choir and tails for Silent Tragedy!

[The announcer held out a coin in her fingers and with a flick of her thumb sent it into the air. Not a sound was heard throughout the arena as everyone waited to see who would perform first. Catching the coin the announcer opened her hand to reveal that it landed on heads.]

Announcer: Stellar Choir is up first! Let the battle begin!

[Moving off the stage Silent Tragedy watched as their opponent began to perform. Ignoring the song Silent Tragedy gathered for one last meeting.]

Kanon: Are you two ready?

Sakura: Ready as I’ll ever be.

Reika: Can't wait to put on a show.

Kanon: Let’s do this then. 

[Before they knew it the song ended with Stellar Choir leaving the stage and the announcer entering back.]

Announcer: Splendid performance! Now time to see what Silent Tragedy is all about! Will it be enough to beat Stellar Choir? We're about to find out! Now without further ado Silent Tragedy!

[The women stepped back onto the stage and were met with the cheers of the audience. Without wasting any time they began their song.]

Bring the Beat

[Silent Tragedy:]

Zero. Five. Four.

Central. Search. Knight. Seize. Bead. Chase.

Run. Commit. North. Resent. Lament. Report.

Three shadows as one, a stealth mission nears

A huge deal with major bloodshed

Complaints get you nowhere, bear it through

Take it away, SILENT TRAGEDY

Now ain’t the time for regrets

Start all over fresh, burn it up (burn it up)

Ambition won’t stop halfway

We carry this town on our backs

So we’ll be ending it all

[Kanon:]

Life is not fair 

A cursed existence to bear 

Blood ice cold in my veins 

Voices echoing in my brain

I’m halfway to being dead 

So be careful how your tread 

Don't think I won't drag you down with me

So quiet your pitiful pleas

[Reika:]

Silent Tragedy’s very own socialite

Finally, I can stop being polite 

This ain't no fairytale scene 

I’m this story’s Evil Queen 

Leaving death in my wake 

A Garden of Eden undone by a snake

Try as you might 

You'll never escape my bite! 

[Sakura:]

Try your luck in this city

You’ll get a visit from the welcoming committee 

Consisting of my men and I 

Make one wrong move and it’s goodbye

Personally, I wanna see you try 

I do love making enemies cry 

Laughing at their pleas for mercy 

Some would say that's a controversy

[Reika:]

One-person hunting

[Sakura:]

Turn around and revolt

[Kanon:]

A chance to overthrow is exciting

[Reika:]

Vengeance rise up

[Sakura:]

Recover and rejoice

[Kanon:]

Before rebirth there’s always destruction

[Silent Tragedy:]

Three shadows as one, a stealth mission nears

A huge deal with major bloodshed

Complaints get you nowhere, bear it through

Take it away, SILENT TRAGEDY

Now ain’t the time for regrets

Start all over fresh, burn it up (burn it up)

Ambition won’t stop halfway

We carry this town on our backs

So we’ll be ending it all

Zero. Five. Four.

Central. Search. Knight. Seize. Bead. Chase.

Run. Commit. North. Resent. Lament. Report.

Four. Six. Time.

Central. Search. Knight. Seize. Bead. Chase.

Run. Commit. North. Resent. Lament. Report.

Heaven.

[As the song ended the arena burst into cheers and screams. Far louder than what was given towards Stellar Choir’s performance with many of the crowd continuing to sing the chorus.]

Announcer: I believe I can safely say we have our winner! It’s decided that we have our winning team! I now pronounce Silent Tragedy as the winner of the tournament and Shizuoka’s representative for the D.R.B.! Let’s give it up for Silent Tragedy!

[A spotlight landed on the women as the words left the announcer’s lips sending the crowd into another round of applause and cheers. A faint smirk formed on Kanon’s face at the announcer’s words. Reika waved her hands and the crowd a genuine smile on her face for once. Sakura had a look of embarrassment as she noticed her men violently wave their fans and scream her name. However, she gave a wide grin as she noticed Shinji’s proud look.]

Sakura: So now what?

Reika: We celebrate! At my house, I don't think Kanon can stand to do any more socializing.

Karen: Kanon!

[Entering the stage Karen rushed toward Kanon grabbing her into a big hug and spinning her around. Reika and Sakura could help but laugh out loud at the sight of Kanon being manhandled by her sister.] 

Karen: You were awesome out there! Oh I know you said you were gonna explain things after the round but it can wait. We should celebrate your team's win!

Kanon: *annoyed* Lovely.

Sakura: This is great. 

Reika: *snickers* Your sister is right Kanon. We should celebrate. Karen-san we’re going to my house to celebrate. Would you like to join us?

Karen: Sure! Kanon never wanted to introduce me to her friends. Oooh, I should tell stories from when Kanon was younger! 

Kanon: *hisses* Karen! I swear if you tell them those stories!

[Once again Reika and Sakura couldn't help but laugh at Kanon’s predicament. The four women soon left the stage. Karen happily chatted with Reika and Sakura. Kanon being dragged behind her. Silent Tragedy knew that this was only the beginning for them. They weren't sure who their next opponent would be but like anyone else, in their way, they would destroy them.]

The End.

To be continued in WR vs. ST Drama Track - Know Your Enemy: Side WR vs. ST

Karen Hojo - Kanon's elder sister. An investigative journalist. She is extremely suspicious of Chuohku both for Kanon's accident and her supposed death. 31 years old.

#hypnosis microphone #hypnosis mic #hypmic #hypmic oc #hypnosis mic oc #shizuoka division #silent tragedy #kanon hojo #reika aichi #sakura kito #drama track

[inyourbestwriting]

I recently read this book about the concept of a congregation in a secular age. The idea that struck me the hardest was Root's framing of our personal motivations as having shifted from objectively determined 'shoulds' to subjectively determined 'coulds'. In the past, when the shape of our lives was based more on religious frameworks, how we lived - from what we ate to the rhythm of our week to how we assessed our own performance - was measured against these expectations.

A good life was made up of meeting the criteria set out by a bunch of shoulds. As religion has fallen away as a morally guiding force in how we structure our lives, coulds have replaced them. Coulds are more numerous as they are subjectively determined, just as our performance against these objectives is. We could do anything with our days, weeks, lives. The possibilities and combinations are as numerous as the people making the choices. They are more anxiety-provoking as a result, being so personal. Everyone is going around inventing their own wheels of value and progress and success. In addition, as Barry Schwartz describes in The Paradox of Choice, having more options doesn't necessarily make us happier; conversely, it can leave us more stressed than we might be with a more limited selection of things to choose from. This is why I love a short menu.

It made me think about how we progress through life. You start off living by a set of shoulds, as dictated by your parents: what you wear, what you eat, where you go. Finally, you graduate to self-determination and worlds of possibility open up, hence the rumspringa-like atmosphere of university. You have access to all the coulds and for a short while we bask in the sun of the countless possibilities. Life is could! Ultimately, with time and increased self-awareness, we return to a set of self-determined shoulds: for me these are - among others - exercising vigorously, drinking what feels like far too much water, trying to stay off my phone. Nothing earth-moving, but nonetheless definitely a set of non-negotiable shoulds. I could stay up all night drinking delicious wine and watching something filthy, but I know tomorrow I will feel like a terrible and slow death so really I should drink this water and go to sleep.

I'm not sad about this process of constriction. It's comforting and nourishing in a way a night in front of Forensic Files (I don't know what you were imagining) never could be.

Connected but tenuously but on my mind nevertheless this week, my friend Lisa is the lady in the photo above. Exercise, as mentioned is one of my shoulds. I met Lisa when I started attending her classes at her Pilates studio, Burn, in San Francisco. When we left, Burn was one of the things I missed the most. Through a series of personal and professional pivots, she can now be found online here and in real life here, and whilst I recognise that her journey to that place has not been easy, I am very happy she's to be found there.

I set myself a goal of working through all her prerecorded Burn sessions from the day I started backwards. It's turned into a pretty trippy project. As Lisa moves forwards through time recording new stuff, I move backwards through her catalogue, spiraling away from her. I follow her progress in reverse, charting it through her hairstyles, the videos' backgrounds of a succession of apartments, houses and studios, and both her daughters and her dog, Chuck, getting younger and younger like Benjamin Buttons.

To end where we began, what I do in her classes has come to me to feel a little like I imagine church does to those who go. I do as she commands, wholly obedient in my observation of the ritual-like sequences, and I emerge transformed: saved for a while in body if not in soul. Or maybe...

Photo from here.

[arisawati]

Revealing the chosen layer of Denny JA to 40: tomorrow morning, it is not sure "through a professional lens"

Welcome to this article that will take you on the way to reveal the selected layer of Denny JA to 40. Through a professional lens, we will explore the amazing work of Denny Ja and reflect on the in -depth message that he wants to convey to us. Denny Ja, a prominent figure in the world of art in Indonesia, has created many extraordinary works during his long career. With the 40th exhibition titled "Tomorrow Morning, Introduction", Denny JA was able to express the wealth of ideas and the uniqueness of his art. The exhibition was designed very carefully, showing off a variety of techniques and art styles that Denny Ja mastered. From painting to installation, each work reflects Denny JA's expertise and dedication to fine arts. One of the works that attracts the attention of many visitors is "tomorrow morning". In this work, Denny JA uses brilliant oil essay poetry techniques to create a strong and feelings of feelings about future expectations and uncertainty. Through the use of bright colors and smooth details, Denny JA managed to capture the essence of life that continues to move forward. Not only that, in his other selected work, Denny JA uses installation techniques to arouse the thoughts and feelings of visitors. One of the most striking installations is "uncertain terrain". In this installation, Denny JA combines various unusual objects and materials, creating a unique visual experience and arouses our imagination. In this exhibition, Denny JA also featured extraordinary photography work. Through a professional lens, Denny JA is able to capture stunning momentmomen and present it in a stunning exhibition. Every photo has its own story, emitting a deep life and emotions. Not only extraordinary technical expertise, the work of Denny JA is also full of meanings of meaning. Through its visual beauty, Denny Ja invites us to reflect on life, hopes, and uncertainties that we face every day. This work is forced us to see the world with new lenses and appreciate the beauty around us. In addition, this exhibition also reflects the development of Denny JA as an artist. Over time, Denny JA continued to develop his artistic talents and knowledge. He is not afraid to take risks and experiment with new ideas, creating an increasingly inspiring and respectful work. The exhibition "Tomorrow morning, Introduction" is a celebration of the extraordinary Denny JA art journey over the past four decades. Through a professional lens, we can see and feel the greatness and courage of Denny Ja as an artist. This article discusses the exhibition of "tomorrow morning, apart uncertain" from Denny JA. Through a professional lens, we have witnessed the beauty, message, and development of Denny JA art. Hopefully this article inspires you to appreciate more art and see the world with a new lens.

Check more: Uncover the chosen layer of Denny JA 40: tomorrow morning, it is uncertain "through a professional lens"

[ghostlymilkshakearcade]

Digital journal: Intro to Animation and application, Final Project Proposal Presentation, Final Project Process, Final product pt. 1

10/31

Animation Photoshop Notes:

Rename layers by double clicking

Fill and then bucket to add a greenscreen background

Click on the eye ball icon to switch between the two different backdrops and then you can highlight both backdrops, make new groups, folder to organize the background

How to make our own characters:

example: a ghost

Use the brush tool to make the overall shape of the ghost and fill it in with white. You can use the move tool to move the drawing you just made around. Ctrl click to duplicate the layer and then you can change specific elements of the ghost

Making a transition

opacity (how visible or invisible can object can be)

You can highlight all of the elements, transitions or layers and put them all into one folder

lasso tool that allows you to select parts of the layer of the background (allows you to manipulate what part of the background the character can go behind) -> like you want the ghost to go behind the tree, which is in the background. CRTL C to copy the highlighted element and CTRL V to paste it onto the green screen part of of the two backgrounds.

11/7 Animation Workshop Part 2 and Final Project discussion

Today was the day of our second animation workshop, and we were instructed to come in with our animation subjects with multiple layers to learn how to synthesize them together and officially animate. Prior to class, I encountered some issues. My computer is not equipped to run complex programs like Photoshop. This heavily hampered my ability to complete my layers before class, resulting in me not having the proper frames before class.

This being the case and the fact that I was not too satisfied with my original frames, I decided to start over. This time, it went smoother having my accumulated knowledge from last class and guidance. I ended with my final animation, which I unfortunately cannot attach because there was technical issues with uploading it to my hard drive. But here's a demo of my process of figuring out how to work the functions of Photoshop!

Prior to our animation workshop, as a class we had the chance to discuss our final project in which we have to recreate a scene that is at least 3 minutes and must include an animation element. I decided to partner with my friend Mya, because their ideas are thorough and I know that working with them, we will both produce a cohesive product. We got straight into brainstorming, as shown below:

SCENE IDEAS:

 . Mean Girls: Regina writes herself in the burn book, and throws flyers around the school

. Spongebob: Sandy is looking for spongebob “I’m ready i’m ready” and Sandy responds “No you aint!” OR the krustkrab pizza scene

. Scary movie: cindy and her friend fight the grudge in their living room

MEAN GIRLS BRAINSTORM: (#1 IDEA)

Animation elements: steam coming out of regina’s ears, animating “AHHHHH” out of regina’s mouth and filling up the screen

Props: burnbook, printed photos of ourselves, car to stand by for beginning of scene, A LOT OF PAPER

With these ideas in mind, we can now move into our final project proposal, which we will be presenting in class next week.

11/13 (prior to class)

Tomorrow we present our final project proposals, and Mya and I synthesized facets of our idea into a slideshow, including our written script, our technical script with specific camera cuts, thanks to Mya, props, setting, actors, and more to give the class insight into our future creative process.

11/14 (final project proposal presentation)

Today we presented our proposal and got the chance to see what our classmates are planning to do. Looking at the proposals, it looks like all of us have a good amount of work cut out for us, and the due date is December 5th, which is pretty close, considering Thanksgiving Break. This made me extremely apprehensive given the technical responsibilities (operating a camera and new equipment such as rode mics and light kits) and the time constraint. Besides this, we put in a request for the needed equipment and to our dismay, the needed equipment was not available until after break, giving us limited time to film and get everything squared away before the 5th. I am hopeful that we can get this figured out before break.

11/27 (Back from break!)

Coming back from break, I got a lot of time to ponder about the stakes of our project, and so did Mya. We got together today and decided that the best course of action given that finals are coming up was to change our scene. By changing our scene to one that involves less people would make it easier for us to get as much done in our time frame and the new scene we have involves comedic relief, which shouldn't be too hard to emulate. We have devised our second final project proposal:

[bagcicada2]

Some Of Best CMMS Software 2023

Digital servicing administration device A computerized upkeep control system ( CMMS ), likewise known as a computerized servicing management info unit ( CMMIS ), is any sort of software application plan that sustains a computer database of information concerning an company's servicing operations. Such operating devices commonly give relevant information such as business policies, audit documents, reports, guidelines, guides and guidelines that explain or implement the organization's system requirements and workarounds, as properly as relevant information such as work explanations and business objectives and activities. [2] This information is meant to aid routine maintenance workers do their tasks extra effectively (for instance, finding out which makers need servicing and which storerooms consist of the additional parts they need) and to help monitoring help make informed selections (for example, working out the expense of machine breakdown repair service against preventative maintenance for each device, potentially leading to better allocation of sources). In addition, because we have developed on these existing benefits, we desire to clear up in even more information if what's new is appropriate for all of our existing attribute.

CMMS record might also be used to validate governing compliance. All Data Retention Practices and Standards Compliance for Health Security and Protection are governed by Health.gov and may be shared with any type of State, government or nearby health division and governing companies. Health.gov Web Service Access to health.gov demands confirmation from the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), the ACLU of Nebraska [reference required]," and the ACLU of Nebraska [quotation required]. To adequately handle the servicing of a amenities, relevant information is required to evaluate what is developing. The information is maintained in a database along with a social repository (the relevant information directory) preserved by the proprietor of that center. One such database is the Public Information Services Program. Some establishments in the neighborhood utilize these data banks to control record. Such facilities normally save and update relevant information about the operating activities of the system in the title of protecting security and efficiency. Personally, this demands a significant quantity of initiative and time. Also a pair number of hrs of technique may verify problematic. (When I used to keep on, that was two hrs and 45 mins.). What if you do obtain back to it for a little while? You're in business today and your resume is currently on your work desk somewhere. You could finish up along with a brand-new photo of yourself, the one you can take to work tomorrow, the one you're currently wearing today. A CMMS also makes it possible for for report keeping, to track finished and assigned jobs in a well-timed and cost-effective fashion. The CMMS additionally helps in administering servicing and brand new acquisitions by supporting CCCs to assist their ongoing development. Read More Here facilitates quick, prosperous, and cost-effective cost-saving step (BACs) and provides affordable money management possibilities to CMMS capitalists looking to sustain or update CCC's present jobs in numerous states. [3] The different measures of carrying out a CMMS plan have been illustrated in the design. The first measure is to execute several possibilities as detailed in (2). All three choices are developed to do away with any kind of possible prospective complication along with implementation of the planning and in specific it would take the capacity to use these answers individually to determine how to proceed over the training course of a CMMS procedure. Observe also[edit] 1:5:200 Create lifecycle administration Computer-aided establishment administration (CAFM) Rehabilitative upkeep Enterprise property management (EAM) Facility monitoring Taken care of resources register (FAR) Inspection Logistics management Maintenance, fixing and functions Performance guidance system Predictive servicing Precautionary maintenance References[edit] Computerized Maintenance Management Systems Made Easy: How to Analyze, Select, and Take care of CMMS . This guidebook is upgraded for Windows 7 with CMMS 3.3. Computer-managed Maintenance Systems: A Step-by-step Manual to Effective Management of Maintenance, Labor, and Inventory . (1) A person who is a member of the Service, a solution related to a specific company, is a person not directly associated with the service who may not act as an worker of the Service in that service, unless a resolution of the staff member's conformity with certain criteria of the Service creates such workers employees of the Service workers of that Service.

#CMMS

[fredandrewus]

Social Media Tips for Real Estate

#1: Start two-way conversations

A large number of potential home buyers are doing research. They ask inquiries. They are undoubtedly intimidated as well if they are thinking about buying for the first time.

Smart real estate professionals use social media to guide everyone through the process, building deeper relationships than the strategy of making frequent sales pitches. You start two-way conversations rather than merely broadcasting unending promotional content (a one-way broadcast). The shared experience is significantly shaped by the audience.

There are various variations of this. It can involve looking for hashtags on Twitter and giving people in your neighborhood real estate advice. It might host a Facebook Live Q&A session tomorrow. It might be anything as basic as posing a query in the caption of your newest listing photo on Instagram the next week. Invite your audience to join the discussion whenever you can.

You can still find ways to advertise your real estate listings, yes. But a dedication to being unceasingly helpful fosters trust and sincere connections.

#2: Choose your social media platforms wisely

Social media moves quickly are disorganized and are continuously evolving. With so many platforms available, it's simple to become confused.

Start by inhaling deeply. Recognize that there are many platforms available and that there is plenty to learn. And acknowledge that concentrating on a select few will help your real estate firm succeed right now. Start your adventure on tried-and-true social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Which platforms require the most of your attention? Your audience will determine a lot. Beyond the platform's general popularity, think about the websites your target market visits. When marketing retirement residences, you wouldn't want to use Snapchat because the target audience is too young. Consider establishing LinkedIn connections with accomplished individuals and sector groups if you are selling commercial real estate.

To determine where your audience is most interested, conduct some preliminary research. A fantastic place to start is with the accounts of other real estate brokers and agents. As availability permits, focus on a small number of platforms using those findings as a guide, which gets us to the following point.

#3: Post consistently (and strategically)

The objective is to engage your audience sufficiently so that they may learn more about you as a real estate agent without overwhelming them to the point where they tune you out.

Posting frequently is one thing, but you also need to think about the content's actual substance. Most content falls into one of three categories:

Time-sensitive/promotional. These posts promote open houses, newly listed homes, or your brand in general. Consider displaying photos, tweets requesting calls from prospects, and virtual tours using Facebook live streams or 360-degree images.

Instructive or "evergreen" how-to. This information seeks several methods to add value by providing answers, advice, or other information. It will still be worthwhile a year from now. This can include décor advice, a budgeting worksheet, or inspiring DIY home improvement project ideas.

Entertaining or fun. Even though this content isn't specifically about real estate, it's a terrific method for you to express your personality. It could be a review of a brand-new eatery in the neighborhood, advice on how to avoid traffic on the way home, or even those popular cat pictures. Social media merely brings potential customers in. Your character and knowledge, as well as your practical interpersonal skills, will seal the deal.

Recognize the purpose of each piece you write, and try different things to keep readers interested and returning.

#4: Incorporate storytelling

Every successful real estate agent is skilled at telling an engaging tale. Include that storytelling component in the content you produce for social media.

Discuss the neighborhood. Talk about more than just the home's pricing and attributes when posting a new real estate listing. Include information about the neighborhood to make a captivating story. Make it easier for the prospective buyer to imagine living in that house.

Include feedback from clients. Inquire of contented clients about their willingness to record a video testimonial. Testimonials assist you to tell engrossing tales that win over your audience's trust.

Share achievements. Share significant achievements in your real estate firm on LinkedIn. This may include ten years in business, new branding, or a website.

Including storytelling in your social media marketing efforts will increase audience engagement and foster trust.

Every real estate agent's marketing toolkit now must include social media. Thankfully, it's not as demanding as it formerly was. By putting the above advice to use when beginning your real estate marketing, you'll create a strong following, engage them, and generate more business for providing great Realty Services In California.

#Realty Services In California

[opamarketing]

Pro-Tips for Choosing the Right Social Media Platform for Influencer Marketing (By Expert)

Brands believe that maintaining an active presence across all social media channels is simple. Brand managers usually create their pages and profiles on all popular social media platforms, but due to a lack of strategy, they are unable to make a lasting impression. Additionally, there are additional channels besides Facebook and Instagram that could benefit your brand. It is not sufficient to merely keep to the two stated platforms!

Social media marketing is essential for both brands and companies. But how can you utilise these platforms to their full potential?

You can only develop marketing tactics that are successful if you know how and where to use them. The greatest social media sites must be chosen for this reason.

Brand marketing strategies almost always include websites like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, but there are other channels that are equally important.

Things to Consider When Selecting Social Media Platforms for Marketing

 Know the audience you want to target

 What do you want to achieve from the marketing campaign

Social media platforms your competitors are using

Marketing strategies you are planning to implement

Platforms For Social Media To Consider 

1. Facebook:- Facebook has established itself as the largest social media network in the world, making it a haven for social media marketers. This platform has made it simple for companies to grow globally thanks to its broad user base of people from all over the world.

2. Instagram: In many ways, Instagram has overtaken Facebook. Because Instagram has the largest number of potential customers, most firms that were keen to sell on Facebook are now leaning there. Now the most popular platform for marketing, Instagram began as a photo-sharing website. Influencer marketing is included here as well.

 3. Twitter:- Twitter is included in the top social media platforms list. Due to its large readership and ability to raise brand recognition, the microblogging platform is becoming essential for brands as well. Twitter, which recently debuted Twitter Fleets, is also keeping up with platform improvements. With Fleets, you can view a post for a full 24 hours, similar to Instagram Stories. This has altered how companies advertise on Twitter. Twitter is a fantastic platform for handling customer support, and users may engage with your company by liking and retweeting your tweets.

4. YouTube:- When it comes to video marketing, the platform that focuses on videos should not be disregarded. Your brand's reach can be significantly expanded thanks to YouTube's huge viewership. YouTube is obviously very competitive as well. YouTube Shorts, a new feature of the video platform, allows producers to post 60-second-long short videos. Brands will have additional options for creating video content as a result of this trend.

5. LinkedIn:- Although it is not always possible to classify LinkedIn as a social networking site, it is a hub for professionals and has recently started to play a crucial role in marketing plans. This medium is being heavily utilised by brands to promote their objectives and brand voice. Because the audience base on LinkedIn includes more than simply potential customers, marketing on LinkedIn differs from that on the aforementioned sites. Make sure you select this platform carefully and only if you are aware that your company need exposure on it.

How OPA help brands?

We at Opa marketing can help you with influencer marketing. We will ensure that you reach your targetted audience in no time and that the process is smooth at both ends. If you wish your business to thrive and generate an enormous amount of sales, then we got it. You don't need to indulge in filtering out the best influencer for your brand; let us handle this and scale your business together.

Conclusion

The social media sector is always growing and evolving. What will be popular now or tomorrow is impossible to foresee? Many platforms may not be widely utilised right now, but they might be in the future. To stay current with consumer demands and perhaps even outpace them, it's critical to stay on top of emerging trends and technologies.

Read More:- https://opa.marketing/blog/how-to-choose-the-right-social-media-platform-for-influencer-marketing/

[tilleystrong4]

replica kelly bag 15

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[f1-unpopularopinions]

The more I read comments from Seb’s fans the more convinced I am they are the most toxic f1 fans. As much as I like Seb, I’m kinda glad he isn’t anywhere near the podium or in the points frequently.

Send us your unpopular F1 opinions!

#this mod is power drunk and biased today #more objective photo selection tomorrow #sebastian vettel #f1

[heartfulofsighs]

Nice Things…

Hello All! Coming back with little writings here and there as my inspiration comes along. A little episode inside of the Something to do with Jackson sphere (1, 2) 

Let me know what you think! @negrowhat you know I gotta tag you in everything lol

Jackson decides you both are in need of a little rest and relaxation. Nothing is better then a nice beach house complete with a gigantic bath tub. 

About 4k words; Warnings: Very light smut like its super light, but I’m obligated to say it includes fingering a praise kink and a bathtub. 

Laundry shouldn’t be difficult. Well in retrospect it wasn’t difficult at your old apartment. The laundry room there was stocked with 5 very old very worn washing and drying machines. They were faithful and predictable. They only had about 3 options and 2 dials. Simplicity at its best. You missed them every time you had a load to wash and dry. You had been living in Jackson’s apartment for months and you still couldn’t figure out his machines. For one thing they were sleek and black, very modern, apparently super efficient. They worked via a touch screen and the breath of options that appeared every time you fired them up made you nervous. Twice you had shrunk a favorite article of clothing. You had also ruined your running shoes, the washing machine seemed incredibly aggressive to you. But today was going to be different. This was your only task. You could do this. The touch screen lit up, you took a breath, the beeping started and an array of options appeared. Water temperatures, agitation speeds, your finger hovered over the first option- “BABY, THIS IS WHERE YOU WERE!?” Jackson’s voice boomed in the laundry room. You turned, frantic that all his noise would upset whatever fragile understanding you had. “Jackson!” You hissed, “shush!”

  His hands snapped to cover his mouth. He looked around his brows knitted, “what’s going on?” He whispered. “I’ just,” you turned back to the machine but you didn’t feel the same confidence, “I’m trying to figure out your stupid space aged washing machine.” You confessed, “everytime I put something in here I ruin it.” “Maybe you’re thinking about it too hard.” He walked up behind you and looked down at the same screen. “Baby?” He began slowly, he touched the screen flicking left twice until he got to a place that said ‘presets’.  “Why don’t you just use these instead of trying to pick through all those other settings? This is what I use.” “You’ve got to be kidding me.” You muttered softly. There were easy to understand presets displayed proudly.   “You didn’t know about these?” He asked, “I could have sworn I showed you the last time you shrunk your sweater?” You rubbed your face in continued disbelief. All this time. “The dryer has presets too, did I show you those?” He kept talking because of course to him this wasn’t a big deal. You had made it one, once again, something tiny had become huge to you.   “You want me to help you with your laundry? Since I’m home today I wanna spend it with you ok?” When you took your hands away from your face he was beaming like the sun at you. You wondered how he could look so worry free. His job was so stressful, he barely got time for himself or you yet he was always beaming. You wanted to be a bit more like him. Just enough so that inanimate objects stopped irritating you for no reason.            “If you want to help sure, but this stuff is kinda boring. You sure you don’t want to nap? Or I could make you something to eat?” You offered.          “We can do that after, this won’t take long.” He pointed out. He wasn’t wrong. You selected the ‘delicates’ option since you wanted to wash your undies and bras first.          “Ok, delicates first then.” You looked in his direction expectantly. The two baskets of laundry were already separated.            “Just pass me the stuff in the blue basket.”  You instructed, “I’ll do them first.”   He dutifully began to hand you clothes. Some things he stopped to look at. “When did you get this bra?” He asked holding up a flowery bra that you had bought a few weeks ago.   “Like two weeks ago?” You guessed, maybe three. Your hand was outstretched waiting for it. “Oh,” was all he said before he handed it over, “I haven’t see you wear it.” He said softer. “Well, it’s a bra Jackson…” You tried. He handed you a few pairs of underwear which you put in. He was a touch less cheerful as you finished loading. He helped with the detergent and softner before he got the machine started. “I feel so dumb,” when you turned to him he frowned. “I really wish I had remembered about the presets. I’ve been having a battle with this machine since I got here.” You confessed. “Baby...I really don’t think it’s a big deal.” He leaned down and pecked you. “You can ask me questions you know? Before you make a mountain out of a molehill.” “But I’m so good at that.”  You pointed out. He kissed you again. His hands trailing down your arms. When you pulled away he pouted. “Let me at least finish the chores, I have a few things more I wanna clean.” You complained. He accepted this and let you go, “I’m gonna have two weeks off...do you have a lot of work?” He asked. It took you a moment to think about what you had to do, some things could wait and really only one required you to finish immediately. “I just have to finish one job then I think I can take some time off.” You stretched and looked at him with curiosity. “What did you want to do?” He pushed some of your hair behind your ear, “can we go on vacation?” “Where did you want to go?” You spoke as you tied your hair up. “Someplace warm?” You asked. He nodded, “an island!” It seemed like a solid idea. You thought it over, Jackson in his usual fashion grew impatient. He tapped his feet and poked out his lip, “we can have a private beach house…” He edged closer. “That sounds...isn’t that a little extravagant?” You often wondered when you would be able to accept Jackson’s penchant for spending on you. There was something that always made you cringe. “I don’t want you to spend too much-” He frowned and you snapped your mouth closed, “you deserve…” He began. You sighed, “nice things.” He accepted you finishing his sentence quietly before he went back to trying to convince you. “It’ll be private...no cameras...just you and me.” He had basically backed you against the machine. He leaned forward and set his hands on it, caging you in. You couldn’t look away. “We live together but I always miss you,” he kissed you and it was mostly soft. “I’m gone a lot and I feel horrible about it,” he kissed you again nibbling on your bottom lip. “Do you miss me when I’m not here?” “Like crazy.” You whispered. His eyes were on yours, pupils wide. His breathing picked up as you snaked your arms around his neck. “So let me take you to the beach, let’s spend a week....please.” His kiss was less soft more insistent. He pushed until your back was pressed to the machine, the hum seemed to burn through your blood. You kissed him back, hands gripping the hair on the nap of his neck. The time apart always made the time together feel like a single point in the universe. There wasn’t a whole apartment, a whole city, there was just you and Jackson. Starved for each other, hungry to touch and feel. He was so good at making you melt, so good at making you desperate for him. You tasted him and whimpered. The beach was suddenly a fantastic idea, more time alone for more of this. He ground against you and his moan made your knees weak. “Ok,” you managed to say against his lips. He pulled away and beamed at you. The unmistakable look of getting his way. “So we’ll go the day after tomorrow...I actually may have set it up already.” “Jackson.”

You had never been swept away before. In past relationships you had lacked the time and your partners seemed to lack the motivation. It hadn’t bothered you truly because how can you miss something you didn’t have to begin with? You thought about it as you packed and he buzzed around the room with excitement. “Don’t forget bathing suites!” He warned, “and sunscreen!” “I have both.” You answered slowly, “and something nice for dinner...right?” When you looked up he was zipping his bag up. “Yes, and then...not much else…” He raised his eyebrows quickly suggestively and you giggled. He stopped to touch his hand to your leg, “I love you in anything.”   “If it was up to you, I’d just walk around naked all the time.” You said slowly. He considered this then said, “only if you want.” Then he was moving again, his energy nervous all throughout the room. “Are you almost done?” He asked. “The car will be here soon.” You just needed to decide on your one nice outfit. It had been a while since you had really gone out. He had seen you in just about everything you owned...except.... At the back of your closet you had hung a tropical print skirt and top set. It was out of your comfort zone but the print would really work. “Hurry hurry baby.” He chided. You had just enough time to grab it from the closet and stuff it into your bag. He took your hand and led you. The smile on his face relaxed yet you could feel the excitement bubbling out of him. He kissed you in the elevator before the doors opened, then led you to the long black car idling at the apartment building’s entrance. He opened the door for you and waited till you were settled before he put the bags in the trunk and got in next to you. Then his hand was back in yours like it belonged there. “Do you think you’ll get recognized at the airport?” You tried your best not to sound nervous but the thought of screaming fans made your stomach heavy. “I don’t think so, we’ll be in then out.” He brought your linked hands up for a kiss. “Don’t be nervous, it’ll be fine.” You settled into the seat and tried your best not to worry. The media in a way wasn’t very interested in you and Jackson’s story anymore. When they did happen to catch photos of you two together it wasn’t big news but most of the comments were still pretty awful. It was better for your mental health to not read them but every so often you saw yourself online and couldn’t stop yourself from looking. The general take was that you were literally a weight dragging him down. It never seemed like a good idea to comment back, better to just read it all in silence, and really it wasn’t all bad. There was a spattering of people who liked you. Who said nice things and said they were cheering on the relationship. People who pointed out that Jackson was happier with you in his life. You weren’t sure if you would give yourself that much credit but you hoped that he felt how you did. He leaned over, “what are you thinking about so hard?” He planted a kiss on your cheek startling you out of your own head. He had a way of knowing when you were thinking yourself down a rabbit hole. He redirected you gently and patiently. His hand squeezed yours again.   “Nothing, just the work I left...hopefully I did enough.” You said. He knew it wasn’t that, but he didn’t push.. He kissed you on the cheek again, “don’t worry about it, just try your best to relax.”  He whispered. It took you a moment of second guessing, but there was no real use in fighting with Jackson. Especially since you actually did need a relaxing vacation. There would be no worries on the beach, that’s all you had to tell yourself over and over and over again.  

There weren’t any cameras, no reporters, no mobs of fans. He had his mask pulled up and dark sunglasses on. You were wearing one of his caps and your own mask pulled up. The two of you looked like any couple on their way to a romantic trip. He only let go of you to pass through security. Once his hand was out of yours there were new worries. An airplane. The last time you had flown you were forced between a grumpy office worker and a woman who seemed to have bathed in perfume. You remember distinctly how the office worker had complained about her perfume and how she called him lonely and sad. It had been for the most part very unpleasant. Suddenly all you could think about were all your worse flights.  You fumbled through security, including the awkward second search. Taking his hand on the other side calmed you down a little bit. “You’re making a mountain again.” He said into your ear. “I can’t remember ever having a good flight,” you squeezed his hand and almost missed a step. “Every flight that lands safely is a good flight baby.” He chimed happily and just like that you relaxed a bit. He was right of course. Bad seatmates didn’t make a bad flight. Small things didn’t have to be big. Once again you tried to calm yourself, to convince yourself that you were on vacation. You were being swept away and it would be great if all your extra thoughts could be swept away too.

“This is the house?” After a flight you slept through, and an ok trip through the airport that involved a car rental associate who was star struck, here the two of you were. The house was directly on the beach. From the outside it didn’t look like much which made you feel a bit better. If he had rented a beach mansion or something along those lines you would have worried the whole trip about how much all of it had cost and...and if you were really worth all the trouble. But this,...this was so quaint and so cozy. “This is it.” He pulled into the driveway and then put the car into park. You got out admiring the house’s slightly cracked white paint, the green ivy underneath the two small windows on either side of the weathered wooden door. The waves sounded incredibly close and you guessed the beach was literally right in your backyard. Jackson was behind you with your bags. “Here,” when you turned he was holding the key towards you all smiles, “open her up.” He instructed. The key got stuck for a moment in the lock. You panicked per usual but it gave when you pushed your shoulder against the heavy wood. “Be careful,” he clucked his tongue at you but you ignored him. You were stuck looking at the inside. Everything was so bright. You sucked in a breath because of all the light. There were huge skylights all throughout. The entryway was neat, a small blue weathered table held a bowl where Jackson dropped the car keys. He pressed his hand to the small of your back and your feet automatically started to shuffle step forward. The entryway opened into a small kitchen with white tile and teal cabinets. The appliances didn’t look new aged or terrifying like Jackson’s. The big white well loved looking stove was comforting. Through the kitchen There was an open airy dinning room and living room. The living room ended in two gigantic glass doors that opened onto a hedge enclosed patio. The bricks were weathered but still a good red. There was a round picnic table with a few shelves, a rack with two surfboards, and what looked like a hot tub. He wrapped his arms around your waist and kissed your cheek, “let’s look at the bedroom.” It was through a doorway off the kitchen, past a half bathroom. The bedroom suite seemed to be all windows. There were three huge windows with breezy white curtains. The bed was gigantic four poster deal, piled high with pillows at the head. The comforter was white like everything else. “There’s one of those clawfoot tubs,” He led you a little further in, towards the doorway of the bathroom. The tub was huge. There was a shower head on the wall above it. Another two windows, more light. “This place is beautiful.” You finally got out. He squeezed your hand, “I know you like simple things and I thought this place would be nice. The beach is right down a back path and-” You tipped your chin up lips pursed asking for him to dip and kiss you. “Thank you so much for bringing me,” you spoke against his lips. He wrapped his arms around your waist. “You’re welcome.” His smile was triumphant. He only let you go to help unpack but beamed the entire time like a happy child. You knew this look, his eyes were centered on yours. He licked his lips before he kissed you. “I picked this house because it’s cozy and…” He trailed off to kiss you again. “And?” “And you never wanna have fun in my bathtub so I made sure that this house had one that was so big you couldn’t argue with me about soaking together.”  He explained. “Jackson.” He beamed again his face back to innocence, “don’t you want to soak with me?” He asked. “You don’t just want to soak,” you pointed out. He shrugged, “humor me.”  In truth he had begged to soak with you plenty of times but the tub in his apartment made you nervous. You had this vision of the two of you settling in and getting stuck or getting in and overflowing the tub in an embarrassing splash. Well maybe it wouldn’t be embarrassing to him but in your mind it was motifying.  You bit your bottom lip and considered the big claw foot tub in the house again. “I guess there’s no harm in a nice soak.” You said softly.  He could barely contain his excitement, he moved deliberately trailing his hands down your waist then squeezing. He searched your face before he broke out into a grin that made you laugh.   “Jackson,” it was hard not to laugh at him. “Jackson right now? You don’t want to eat first?” He cocked his head, “I do, but let’s do that later, my back hurts from the flight.” You made a ‘sure’ face but didn’t argue. It was better to humor him, he gave your bottom another not so gentle squeeze before kissing the top of your head. “So a nice bath, then I’ll make you food,...” he trailed off and took your hand.

The fragrance from the bubble bath he found was making your head feel dreamy and relaxed. His back was against one side of the tub and yours was on the other. He insisted on massaging your feet and there really wasn’t any huge point to arguing. He rubbed away while you sighed slowly to yourself. “You have the cutest little feet.” He murmured. “They’re so gross.” Your response was automatic, years of having being told they were flawed in some way meant that you were use to parroting back the words when you were complimented. “They’re perfect on you.” He dug deep into the sole of your foot and you couldn’t help but groan. “Always say nice things about yourself.” He murmured. “Yeah I know.” You sunk lower into the water and he took the invitation to work his hands up your leg. It was hard for you to say nice things about yourself all the time. You were use to your self deprecating jokes. But he was quick to redirect them, he always told you to make it nice instead. His hands were steady on your body focusing your mind back into the moment.  It was never gonna be just a soak, but you didn’t do anything to stop him. He felt the back of your knee and a shiver ran up your body. His eyes were focused on your skin, “you’ll let me do this at home now right?” He pulled himself a little closer so his hands could go further up, “a nice hot bath, foot massages.” “You’re very good at them,” your voice was barely above a whisper. His eyes seemed to darken. He leaned farther forward, upsetting the water and bubbles so he could kiss your forehead. Under the water his hand had made it all the way up which meant his fingers were in a prime position to rub you where you were most sensitive. He kept the pressure light, teasing you. A whine broke past your lips. He ducked his head and kissed you. “I want you to relax,” he said softly against your lips, he dipped his fingers inside of you. It was so hard not to squirm, he pulled them back and forth slowly before he stopped. You gripped the sides of the the tub and tried to urge him to move. His eyes were mischievous. “Jackson,” You tried to roll your hips to get him to do anything but tease you. He cocked his head, “say something nice about yourself.” The command confused you. Your brow furrowed and for a moment you were confused, “what?” He pulled his hand completely away and touched your face instead. “I read that it’s nice to hear compliments from others but reinforcing it with words you say to yourself is even better.” His voice was earnest his hand dipped into the water again and found your breast. “Something nice…” He played with your nipple and you whimpered. Your mind was reaching for something, any sort of compliment that would make sense. “I like my thighs.”   He beamed, triumphant, then pinched your nipple lightly, “what else baby? You’re so beautiful there’s a million things to compliment.” You were so use to his praise that it was hard to give yourself the same attention. He switched to your other nipple and kissed your forehead again. “One more.” He encouraged. You swallowed, his hands sending pleasure and want all throughout your body. You willed your brain and your mouth to talk, to say something so he would give you what you needed. “I have nice skin...the cream you gave me makes it so soft.” You admitted. He liked that, he kissed you harder. He had both hands involved now, tickling the sides of your tummy. The giggle that escaped your mouth made his smile even wider. “The most perfect skin.” He spent the rest of the bath praising you. Cooing all his favorite compliments while he played with your body. It didn’t take long before your hands gripped the side of the tub and you called his name. Your body locked and then the pleasure ripped through your limbs in what felt like a blaze. Dimly you knew you had splashed water and maybe that would have embarrassed you, but there were more important things. Like the way you still shook while he kissed you everywhere he could reach. If you felt dreamy before your mind was downright foggy now. “You liked that baby?” He asked, finally pulling away to look at you. Your bones felt like jelly, thank god the tub wasn’t too deep. There was no doubt in your mind you would have melted further into the water. It took you what felt like hours to barely nod your head and indicate that yes you had indeed liked it. “It’s so cute when you say my name like that.” he went back to sitting across the tub from you, a smug smile on his face. You didn’t know what face you were making but hopefully it was satisfied. “Let’s just spend the rest of the time here.” You finally got out. He didn’t argue with you, just rested his head on the rim of the tub, “as long as you’re happy that’s all I care about.” You sat up a little, “I’m the happiest I’ve been in forever.” “Perfect.” He spoke softly and maybe it was more to himself than you but he was right. The feeling was perfect.        

#jackson wang #team wang #got7 jackson wang #jackson wang smut #jackson wang fanfic #jackson takes you on vacay #and it was magical times #tub time #who doesnt love a good soak #kpop fanfic #something to do with jackson universe #say nice things to yourself

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

NASA’s Perseverance Rover Successfully Cores Its First Rock Perseverance will obtain additional imagery of the sample tube before potentially completing the process of collecting its first scientifically-selected Mars sample. Data received late Sept. 1 from NASA’s Perseverance rover indicate the team has achieved its goal of successfully coring a Mars rock. The initial images downlinked after the historic event show an intact sample present in the tube after coring. However, additional images taken after the arm completed sample acquisition were inconclusive due to poor sunlight conditions. Another round of images with better lighting will be taken before the sample processing continues. Obtaining additional imagery prior to proceeding with the sealing and storing of Mars rock sample is an extra step the team opted to include based on its experience with the rover’s sampling attempt on Aug. 5. Although the Perseverance mission team is confident that the sample is in the tube, images in optimal lighting conditions will confirm its presence. Perseverance’s Sampling and Caching System uses a rotary-percussive drill and a hollow coring bit at the end of its 7-foot-long (2-meter-long) robotic arm to extract samples slightly thicker than a pencil. Within the bit during coring is a sample tube. After completing yesterday’s coring, Perseverance maneuvered the corer, bit, and open end of the sample tube in order to be imaged by the rover’s Mastcam-Z instrument. The target for the sample collection attempt was a briefcase-size rock belonging to a ridgeline that is more than half-a-mile (900 meters) long and contains rock outcrops and boulders. The initial set of images from Mastcam-Z showed the end of a cored rock within the sample tube. After taking these images, the rover began a procedure called “percuss to ingest,” which vibrates the drill bit and tube for one second, five separate times. The movement is designed to clear the lip of the sample tube of any residual material. The action can also cause a sample to slide down farther into the tube. After the rover finished the percuss-to-ingest procedure, it took a second set of Mastcam-Z images. In these images, the lighting is poor, and internal portions of the sample tube are not visible. “The project got its first cored rock under its belt, and that’s a phenomenal accomplishment,” said Jennifer Trosper, project manager at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California. “The team determined a location, and selected and cored a viable and scientifically valuable rock. We did what we came to do. We will work through this small hiccup with the lighting conditions in the images and remain encouraged that there is sample in this tube.” Commands uplinked to the rover earlier today will result in images of the corer and tube to be acquired tomorrow, Sept. 3, at times of day on Mars when the Sun is angled in a more favorable position. Photos will also be taken after sunset to diminish point-sources of light that can saturate an image. The photos will be returned to Earth early in the morning of Sept. 4. If the results of this additional imaging remain inconclusive, the Perseverance team still has several options to choose from going forward, including using the Sampling and Caching System’s volume probe (located inside the rover’s chassis) as a final confirmation of the sample being in the tube. The Sept. 1 coring is the second time that Perseverance has employed its Sampling and Caching System since landing in Jezero Crater on Feb. 18, 2021. More About Perseverance A key objective for Perseverance’s mission on Mars is astrobiology, including the search for signs of ancient microbial life. The rover will characterize the planet’s geology and past climate, pave the way for human exploration of the Red Planet, and be the first mission to collect and cache Martian rock and regolith. Subsequent NASA missions, in cooperation with ESA, would send spacecraft to Mars to collect these sealed samples from the surface and return them to Earth for in-depth analysis. The Mars 2020 Perseverance mission is part of NASA’s Moon to Mars exploration approach, which includes Artemis missions to the Moon that will help prepare for human exploration of the Red Planet. JPL, which is managed for NASA by Caltech in Pasadena, California, built and manages operations of the Perseverance rover. TOP IMAGE....This composite of two images shows the hole drilled by NASA's Perseverance rover during its second sample-collection attempt. The images, which were obtained by one of the rover's navigation cameras on Sept. 1, 2021 (the 190th sol, or Martian day, of the mission), were taken in the "Crater Floor Fractured Rough" geologic unit in Mars' Jezero Crater. The team nicknamed the rock "Rochette" for reference and the spot on the rock where the sample was cored "Montdenier." A key objective for Perseverance's mission on Mars is astrobiology, including the search for signs of ancient microbial life. The rover will characterize the planet's geology and past climate, pave the way for human exploration of the Red Planet, and be the first mission to collect and cache Martian rock and regolith (broken rock and dust). Subsequent NASA missions, in cooperation with ESA (European Space Agency), would send spacecraft to Mars to collect these sealed samples from the surface and return them to Earth for in-depth analysis. The Mars 2020 Perseverance mission is part of NASA's Moon to Mars exploration approach, which includes Artemis missions to the Moon that will help prepare for human exploration of the Red Planet. LOWER IMAGE....This Mastcam-Z image shows a sample of Mars rock inside the sample tube on Sept. 1, 2021 (the 190th sol, or Martian day, of the mission), shortly after the coring operation. The image was taken after coring concluded but prior to an operation that vibrates the drill bit and tube to clear the tube's lip of any residual material. The bronze-colored outer-ring is the coring bit. The lighter-colored inner-ring is the open end of the sample tube, and inside is a rock core sample slightly thicker than a pencil. A portion of the tube's serial number – 266 – can be seen on the top side of tube's wall. The image was taken on Sept. 1, 2021. Arizona State University in Tempe leads the operations of the Mastcam-Z instrument, working in collaboration with Malin Space Science Systems in San Diego. A key objective for Perseverance's mission on Mars is astrobiology, including the search for signs of ancient microbial life. The rover will characterize the planet's geology and past climate, pave the way for human exploration of the Red Planet, and be the first mission to collect and cache Martian rock and regolith (broken rock and dust). Subsequent NASA missions, in cooperation with ESA (European Space Agency), would send spacecraft to Mars to collect these sealed samples from the surface and return them to Earth for in-depth analysis.

#space #science #Astronomy #physics #news #nasa #mars perseverance rover

[nasa]

NASA Spotlight: Astronaut Jonny Kim

Dr. Jonny Kim was selected by NASA to join the 2017 Astronaut Candidate Class. He reported for duty in August 2017 and having completed the initial astronaut candidate training is now eligible for mission assignments to the International Space Station, the Moon and eventually Mars. A U.S. Navy SEAL, Kim completed more than 100 combat operations. Kim was commissioned as a naval officer through an enlisted-to-officer program and earned his degree in mathematics at the University of San Diego and a doctorate of medicine at Harvard Medical School. Born and raised in Los Angeles, California to Korean-American immigrants, he enjoys spending time with his family, outdoor activities, academic and professional mentoring, strength training and lifelong learning. 

Dr. Kim took some time from his job as a NASA astronaut to answer questions about his life and career! Enjoy: 

Why did you apply to be an astronaut?

For many reasons. I think that humans are natural explorers. There is a calling in all of us to explore the unknown, push the boundaries and redefine what is possible. I’m drawn to the physical and mental challenges of space exploration and the teamwork required to complete such an objective. And finally, the opportunity to do something good for our country, for humanity, and to inspire the next generation of thinkers, leaders, explorers and scientists.

What was your favorite memory from astronaut training?

I’m a big believer that people can grow stronger bonds with each other when they succeed through shared hardship. And I think that developing relationships with one another is one of the best ways to forge successful team skills to be successful in any endeavor. With that context, I can tell you that my favorite memory from astronaut training was traversing the deep canyon slots of the Utah Canyon Lands for almost 2 weeks with my classmates. We hiked trails, climbed canyons, swam through deep, dark, cold and murky waters and forged through uncertainty, all while being together. This shared hardship was not only fun, but it helped us grow closer to one another. It’s one of the fondest memories I have when I think about my amazing classmates, and through that shared hardship, I know I can count on any one of my fellow astronauts when the going gets tough.

If you could play any song during launch, what would it be?

Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

I would tell myself to always follow your passion, never stature or money, because following a life of passion is long-term, sustainable and usually helps others. Be accountable for your mistakes and failures, and maintain the humility to learn from those mistakes and failures. And finally, I would caution myself that all worthwhile goals are difficult to obtain, but with the right attitude and hard work, you can accomplish anything.

How did your time as a Navy Seal impact your astronaut training?

Being a Naval Special Warfare Operator taught me that humans are capable of accomplishing ten times what their bodies and mind tell them. I learned there are no limits in life, and the biggest setback one can have is a poor attitude. I learned the value of strong leadership and accountability. I also learned the meaning of sacrifice, hardship, teamwork, love and compassion. All these traits helped me to develop the hard and soft skills required to be an astronaut.

How do we prepare medically for long duration missions? What tools, resources, medications do we anticipate needing, and how do we figure that out?

This is a great question and the answer is evolving. The way we answer this question is by being thoughtful and consulting the medical communities to weigh the pros and cons of every single decision we make regarding this. Mass plays an important factor, so we have to be mindful of everything we bring and how we train for it.

Who was the first person you called after being selected to be an astronaut?

It would have been my wife but she was with me when I heard the news. The first person I called was my mom.

What is one item from home that you would bring to space?

A picture of my wife and kids.

What does it mean to you to be part of the Artemis generation of astronauts?

It means that I have a duty and obligation to serve humanity’s best interests. To explore the unknown, push boundaries and redefine what’s possible. It means I have an immense opportunity to serve as an example and inspiration to our next generation of leaders and explorers. It also means there is a hard road ahead, and when the mission calls for us, we will be ready.

What are three personal items, besides photos of family and friends, that you would bring with you on your first spaceflight?

An automatic watch, because the engineering behind a timepiece is a beautiful thing. An American flag, because I proudly believe and uphold the principles and ideals our country stands for. And finally, a nice journal that I can put handwritten thoughts on.

Thank you for your time, and good luck on your first spaceflight assignment!

Follow Jonny Kim on Twitter and Instagram to keep up with his life as NASA astronaut. 

It’s not too late to APPLY to #BeAnAstronaut! Applications close TOMORROW, March 31. 

Make sure to follow us on Tumblr for your regular dose of space: http://nasa.tumblr.com.

#NASA #Spotlight #astronauts #newastronauts #USA #Navy Seals #International Space Station #Apply #explore #explorer #doctor #medical #team work #space #science #STEM #space news

[wiypt-writes]

Riding High

Ch18: Sugar

 Chapter Summary: It’s July, and Fliss’ birthday…

 Chapter Warnings: Bad Language words.!!!

 Chapter Pairings:  Frank Adler x OFC Fliss Gallagher

 A/N: Ok, so I know you’ve all been on edge since He-who-shall-not-be-named was released on parole and I hope this chapter doesn’t disappoint. We’ll be gearing up for a bit of a rough time over the next few chapters for Friss so buckle up…  

Disclaimer: This is a pure work of fiction and classified as 18+. Please respect this and do not read if you are underage. I do not own any characters in this series bar Fliss Gallagher and the other OCs. By reading beyond this point you understand and accept the terms of this disclaimer.

Riding High Masterlist // Main Masterlist

Chapter 17

July 2018

 “So now what?” Mary looked at Fliss as the two of them sat side by side at the table, both looking at the laptop in front of them.

“See these spaces here…” Fliss said, pointing to two empty squares dotted in the unpublished Internet Page and then to the larger space at the top “Now we need to add the photos…”

 They were working on a project of sorts for Sandybrook’s website. They’d decided to give Monty his own little weekly blog for the summer called “The Life of Monty” which Mary had eagerly said she wanted to write, something for her to do over the break. “Ooh, ok!” Mary nodded “I already know which ones I want to use!” “Yeah?” Fliss looked at her.

“I want that one that has me, you and Monty in…you know the one that Frank likes where we are both laughing.” Fliss smiled “Ok, we can use that one.” “And then the other one is the one where Monty had the Party Hat on because it was his birthday.” “Good choice.” Fliss smiled “And what about the one across the top.” “The one of him in the pasture.” Mary said after a moment “Where he is looking up and pulling the funny face, you know with all his teeth out?” 

Fliss grinned “Yeah, it looks like he is smiling.” Mary nodded eagerly “Yup.” With a move of the mouse, Fliss set to work selecting the photos, ensuring that they were positioned and sized right for the frames. She couldn’t help but smile at the one of her and Mary. Mary was looking at the camera, laughing a lot whilst Fliss was, in turn, watching her and laughing too. Frank had been trying to take the photo of the 2 of them but Bill had been stood behind him, pulling stupid faces which had reduced Mary to tears, and her giggles had then set Fliss off. Frank said he adored the photo, that much in-fact it was now the screen-saver on his phone.

 Fliss clicked save and then looked at Mary. “Wanna give it a final read over, check if you want to add anything else?”

Mary nodded.

“Ok, you do that I’m gonna start dinner.” “What are we having?” Mary looked at her.

“Carbonara. That ok?”

Mary grinned her approval as Fliss stood up, dropped a kiss to Mary’s head and walked into the kitchen.

It wasn’t long before Frank came home and greeted Mary before he headed into the kitchen area. He wrapped his arms round Fliss from behind, dropping a kiss to her neck.

“Good day?” he asked and she hmmed in agreement.

 “Not bad…are you filthy, as usual?”

 He chuckled as he let her go and moved to the fridge. She stopped what she was doing and turned to face him as he reached in for the water jug. He was, as always, covered in grime from his work and Fliss bit her lip. There was definitely something about seeing him in his dirty work jeans and grubby T-shirts that got her blood pumping.

 “Stop it.” he said, giving her a look, knowing full well what she was thinking. She shrugged and with a grin turned back to the food.

 “Oh, erm, wanted to check…are you if we use photos of Mary for her blog on the website?” Fliss asked, turning back to him.

“Why wouldn’t I be?” “It’s a public sight.” Fliss shrugged “Just wanted to check that’s all.” “It’s fine.” Frank said, placing a kiss to her cheek “I think it’s a really good idea anyway, give her something to do and practice her writing. Like Bonnie said, she’s sharp on the numbers but could do with honing up her English a little bit. She’s too logical, this should give her something to be creative with and keep her occupied over the break.”

 And you…he refrained from adding. In the week following the notification that parole had been granted, John had been released. And this had set Fliss on edge. One night after she had snapped at Frank, causing a full scale argument over the fact he had bought the wrong type of salad dressing, she’d broken down and confessed that she wasn’t sleeping properly and this was causing stupid things, like Ranch v French dressing, to tip her over the edge.

 The day after her spectacular salad dressing related melt down, Greg, who had already requested details of the terms of his release, came over and the 3 of them gone through, in detail what it meant realistically for Fliss.

 “Basically it’s as good as you could hope for.” Greg explained “He is forbidden from contacting you or any of your family in any way, via any means. He is State-bound to Massachusetts, specifically the Boston area. He’s tagged, and on a curfew between the hours of 7pm and 7am. And moreover the authorities here are following the UK’s lead as well and trialling these new GPS tracking tags, which they’ve deemed him eligible for. So at any time, any place, they’ll be able to lock onto his whereabouts…” 

“So if he does breach his conditions…” Fliss started and Greg nodded “They’ll be on him like a shot.” he said, with a gentle smile “Look, I know this is shit…but you really do have nothing to worry about. One breach and he’s back inside. And when he reaches the end of his parole, we’ll file for an injunction with the same conditions. Keep him away from you.”

 Since the conversation with Greg, Fliss had calmed down somewhat but still, in week following her confession she didn’t spend a night away from Frank, seemingly coping better with the fact that she was around him, and even when he wasn’t there, the fact she was in his apartment gave her some safety and comfort.

 So he’d asked her to move in permanently 3 days ago. Which he was still waiting for an answer on. 

“What you thinking?” her voice broke through his thoughts.

“Honestly?”

 “Always.” she nodded.

 “When you’re gonna give me an answer to that question I asked you a few days back.” She took a deep breath and looked down at the floor before she looked up at him, a soft smile on her face.

 “Are you sure you want me here, full time, and you’re not just asking because-“

 “Lissy…” he cut her off, shaking his head “I’d have asked you move in here the day I did if I’d thought you’d have said yes. I’d love you to come live with us. And I know Mary would too…” “Ok, that’s blackmail.” she narrowed his eyes at the fact he’d dropped Mary into the equation and he grinned. “Is it working?”

 She bit her lip and nodded “Yeah, ok, I’d love to…” “Yeah?” he said, a huge smile spreading across his face, warmth flooding his chest.

 “Yeah…” she nodded, and grinned as he wrapped his arms around her, pressing a kiss to her lips.

 “Gross…” Mary mumbled as she walked past the pair of them to the fridge, retrieving a juice box. . Frank broke away to look at her as she stabbed the straw into the hole at the top.

“Better get over it Stack.” he smirked. “Fliss just agreed to come live with us.” “Really?” her eyes widened and she grinned as Fliss nodded. Mary moved over to the pair of them and wrapped her arms around them both, Frank’s hand falling to the back of her head as she looked up at him. “Does that mean I don’t need to eat any more of your cooking, like ever again?”

 Frank rolled his eyes and glanced at Fliss who was chuckling slightly “Trust me Mary…” she said, grinning “I’ve no intention of eating his cooking either.”

***** Of course Verity and Bill were over the moon when Fliss told them she was moving into Frank’s, and the next week or so they all spent doing various runs with the things she decided she needed to take. Everything else she would be leaving in the annex to either throw or store at a later date. 

Considering the amount of time they spent together, it wasn’t a huge change for them, it just meant that the comfortable routine they adopted when they were together became a daily one, and it suited the pair of them just fine. Frank also surprised Fliss by getting her a vanity unit which she had made a passing comment about, making space for it in their room.

After 3 weeks it had become the new normal for them. They shared chores, shared Activity Club runs, grocery shopping,  bills…Frank had tried to object to that one but Fliss had put her foot down insisting that if she was living there she was paying her way so he’d caved in the end and agreed. Fliss felt happy, safe, secure, loved...and Frank was over the moon simply knowing he had her to come home to every night.

 One particular evening, a few days before her Birthday they were due to meet Evelyn for dinner as she was in town again to visit Mary, but Fliss was running ridiculously late, and as a consequence was in a total flap

 “Fuck, fuck…” she groaned, jumping out of the jeep and calling Thor to her. “Come on buddy…”

She hurried across the lawns and threw the door to the apartment open, Thor shooting in before her. 

“I’m so sorry I’m late…” she instantly began apologising  as she walked into the living area and groaned loudly “The last lesson overran and then one of the waterers broke in the livery barn, flooded Horatio’s stable…” “It’s ok, calm down…” Frank chuckled, dropping a kiss to her cheek. “How did it break?”

“He’s been scratching his arse on it.” she said, rubbing at her temple “He broke it off the wall. We turned the supply off but I had to sort his bed before I left, then call his owner to tell her…” she groaned “Fucking nightmare.” “Want me to take a look at it?”

Fliss shook her head “Dad’s gonna do it tomorrow, keep him busy. He always moans at me for asking you and not…” she trailed off as she spotted Evelyn who was sat on one of the chairs in the living room. “Oh, Evelyn…hi. Sorry, I didn’t realise you were coming here…I thought…”

“We were…” Frank explained “But Mary wasn’t feeling too good so I suggested to Mother she come here instead.” “Oh, no, is she ok?” Fliss asked.

 “Too much sun I think, she’s been running around at the Activities Camp all day and hardly drunk anything, despite the lecture you gave her. She’s had some water and gone for a nap. She’ll be fine when it’s time for dinner.”

 “I thought seeing as we can’t go out I’d treat you to take out.” Evelyn spoke, standing up. Fliss eyed her for a moment before she shrugged.

 “I can make something.” she offered, and Frank shook his head. “No, Lissy…” “I can do chicken with that pear and blue cheese salad you and Mary liked.” Fliss said, “Surely that’s gonna be better for her than a take out if she’s feeling shitty?”

 Frank looked at her and then to his mother “That ok with you?” “Sure, that sounds good.” Evelyn nodded “but only if it’s no trouble.” “It’s fine.” Fliss nodded “Let me go take a shower and then I’ll get started ok?” Frank nodded and dropped a kiss to her cheek before she headed off to the bathroom. Thor made his way into the living room and took his usual place on the rug, flopping down as he looked up at Evelyn as she followed Frank over to the kitchen area. He pulled a bottle of white wine out of the fridge and held it up.

 “Sancerre?” Evelyn arched an eyebrow. “And a pretty good one too…” “Fliss’ choice, not mine. I assume that means you’d like a glass.” “I don’t want to put you out Frank.” she said, and he shook his head.

 “You’re here now so…” he said “Oh, we normally eat outside but I’m not sure if Mary’s-”

 “What, in open view of everyone?” Evelyn asked, horrified “It’s hardly-“ She stopped dead as Frank shot her a look, and held her hands up. “Point taken…”

 Frank poured her a glass then got a beer for himself and leaned back against the counter as his Mother nodded appreciatively at the wine.

 “So, pear and blue cheese…” she said and Frank looked at her “You hated cheese as a child.” “Well, I like it now.” he shrugged “And Mary loves that salad so…” “It’s not a dish I would normally associate with a child to be honest.” Evelyn mused.

“Well, I think we can both agree Mary isn’t a particularly standard child so…”

 At that point Fred sauntered into the kitchen, straight to his food bowl. Evelyn eyed him, before she turned to Frank and smiled “I already took a Benadryl…” He snorted and a few seconds later Mary appeared.

“Hi Grandmother. Fliss said you were here.” “You feeling ok?” Frank asked as she walked over to him. He swung her up and she rest her head on his shoulder, nodding. “Want some more water?” “Fliss told me to ask for the elec…erm…the electo-” “Electrolytes” he said, nodding. “Not a bad shout…”

He set her on the counter and then reached into the cabinet to the right of the sink where they kept the medical supplies and pulled a sachet from the box. Grabbing a glass he pulled the Filter jug out of the fridge and made her the drink before he handed it to her. “Take it slow ok?” She nodded and took it from him with a thanks, sipping at it carefully, pulling a face. “What flavour is that?” “It says orange.” he answered, looking at the packet.

“Well it’s wrong. That’s disgusting.” “It’s good for you, so stop complaining.”  Frank tossed the empty sachet into the trash.

 To his surprise he heard his mother chuckling and he turned to look at her.  “I remember giving you something similar when you came home with sunstroke from playing Baseball all afternoon. You spat it out and told me you’d rather die than drink it.” Frank gave a huff and then turned to Mary who was grinning ear to ear “Don’t even think about it.” he pointed at her.

 She shrugged and then took another mouthful, grimacing as she drank. “Please can I get down?” Frank obliged and watched as she headed off to the sofa, Thor jumping up besides her, settling his head in her lap.

 “Go and talk to her.” Frank looked at his mother “That’s why you’re here, to spend time with her. Not me.”

Evelyn nodded, and for a moment Frank thought he saw a flicker of emotion in the woman’s eyes, but as quick as it had flashed across her face it was gone and she turned and made her way into the sofa. Frank leaned on the edge of the archway which led into the living area and watched as she sat down in the chair she had occupied previously before he heard the door to the bathroom open again, signalling Fliss was out of the shower. He moved to start taking the different things they needed to make dinner out of the fridge and turned on the oven before he seasoned the chicken breasts just as she had shown him with salt, pepper, chilli and a squeeze of lime. He dropped it onto a tray, placed it in the oven and was washing his hands when Fliss walked dressed casually in a pair of shorts and a fading Guns N Roses tank top. She was barefoot and her damp hair was piled up on her head in a haphazard bun. This was Frank’s favourite way to see her. Completely relaxed and at home.

 “Chicken’s in.” he said as he turned to the fridge and then poured her a glass of wine.

 “Thank you.” she smiled, taking a sip.

 “Can I show Evelyn around?” Mary asked, and Frank turned to her.

 “Finished your drink?” “Yeah.” “Ok then yes, of course you can.” She stood up and Evelyn followed, giving the pair of them a smile as she passed by the kitchen area of the open plan living space

 “Oh, Felicity.” “Fliss, please.” Fliss nodded to her as she turned back to what she was doing.

 “Fliss, sorry, but could I be awkward?” Evelyn asked.

“No doubt you can.” Fliss mumbled between gritted teeth and Frank smirked to himself before she tuned to look at Evelyn.

 “Could I ask for my salad dressing on the side?”

“That’s fine.” Fliss nodded “I’ll make you a separate bowl.” “Thank you, that’s very kind.” Evelyn smiled before she headed out after Mary.

 “If she doesn’t eat this, then she’s gonna be wearing it.” Fliss looked at Frank who let out a laugh as he chopped up the slices of cucumber.

 “Now that I would pay to see.” “I’ll do it for free.” Fliss narrowed her eyes.

Frank chuckled again as they continued to make their food. After about 10 minutes or so, just as they were dropping the salad bowls onto the table, Evelyn and Mary re-appeared.

 “You’ve made a nice home, certainly considering the area anyway.” Evelyn said, as Frank invited her to sit at the table before he headed back to grab the bottle of wine, a beer for himself and more water for Mary.

 Fliss rolled her eyes” The area is fine, and Frank did it all, not me. Well, him and my dad. I only moved in a few weeks ago.”

“Yes, he does speak very highly of your parents.” “Well they love him.” Fliss shrugged “But then again what’s not to love.”

Evelyn looked at Fliss for a moment as Frank made his way back to the table, and they all settled down and began to eat. As she had been at Mary’s birthday, his mother was polite, nodding appreciatively at the food, joining in the conversation and she sat with Mary once they’d finished so Mary could show he the latest installation of Monty’s blog. After another bottle of wine and a few more beers, Frank realised it was getting quite late and then told Mary she needed to be getting ready for bed. Evelyn took this as her queue to call for her driver, which Frank was pleased about as it saved him having to ask her to leave.

 Mary headed for a shower and the three adults made small talk until she reappeared in her pyjamas just as Evelyn’s driver called to announce his arrival. She bid Mary goodnight and then Frank made to walk her down to her car when the woman surprised him and looked at Fliss. 

“Could you…I’d like to speak to you.” Fliss looked at Frank before she shrugged “Yeah, sure…” Frank frowned, but didn’t object. He looked at his mother and nodded “Let me know when you want to see her again.”

 “I was actually wondering if she could come to Boston for a few days.” Evelyn said and Frank took a deep breath. “Obviously, when it’s convenient.” “Maybe.” He nodded “Goodbye Evelyn.” “Yes, I’ll call you.” she nodded and then the two women headed out of the apartment. Fliss stuck her hands in her pockets as they walked.

 “I’m glad he took my advice.” Evelyn broke the silence “Regarding you, I mean…”

“Yeah he told me what you said to him.” Fliss gave a snort “Gotta say I was surprised after I’d unleashed quite a nasty verbal tirade on you…” “Well I think all things considered at the time I deserved it.”  Evelyn shrugged “And I’m not surprised you hate me so-“

 “I don’t hate you Evelyn.” Fliss cut her off, shaking her head “I hate what you did to Frank and Mary, and honestly? I still don’t understand it.”

 “I thought I was doing the right thing.” “But how?” Fliss pressed “How was tearing a girl away from the only father figure she has ever known, the man that has cared for her and loved her since she was six months old the right thing?”

 Evelyn shook her head “I know Frank and I made an assumption-” “No, you knew Frank.” Fliss looked at her, “It was, what? Almost 8 years since you saw him last when you turned up…and how long was it before he left Boston since you actually had a conversation with him? I just…” Fliss trailed off and looked down at her feet before she glanced back at Frank’s mother “it baffles me how someone can be so callous towards their own child, that’s all.”

 Fliss watched as Evelyn stopped and looked at her “What do you want me to say?” “An apology might not go amiss…” “I did that with his birthday card, paying the fees…” “Money doesn’t make it ok Evelyn.” Fliss sighed, “And a card isn’t the same as saying it to his face…” she scratched at her head “If you want to try and salvage something from this mess, have some form of relationship with your son…” “What makes you think-“ “Because I saw you this evening, at various points, watching him…you might be able to keep your face straight but the eyes don’t lie” Fliss said gently. Evelyn looked down at the ground as Fliss continued. “I suggest you start with a verbal apology, a very open and honest discussion, because that’s when you get the best out of Frank. On a face-to-face level, when he isn’t being lied or talked down to”

 “You really do know him exceptionally well don’t you?” Evelyn smiled.

“Well, we’ve had enough of our own discussions recently with everything that’s been going on so…” “Right, your ex-husband.” “How do you-“ Fliss sighed, “Mary?” “No, actually, she never said a word. I looked you up.”

 “Course you did.” Fliss groaned.

 “I was curious about your family.” Evelyn shrugged “You have quite the back story.” “Yeah well, its history.” she said “And long may it stay that way.”

 “Well I hope for all your sakes it does.” Evelyn shook her head “Nothing I can’t stand less than a man that deems it acceptable to do that. Lord knows I pushed Preston the extremes at times but he never once raised a hand to me…or his voice now that I think about it. He preferred to argue on a cerebral level...”

 “Very like Frank.” Fliss smiled.

 “Yes, the two are exceptionally similar.” Evelyn said as they reached the car. “Thank you for dinner Fliss, it was a very enjoyable evening.” Fliss smiled and then as Evelyn opened the car door the woman turned back to her “Just think about what I said Evelyn. You can’t turn the clock back but it’s how you go forward from here that matters.”

 Evelyn nodded, and with that she climbed in the car and shut the door. Fliss watched them drive off before she turned and headed back towards the apartment. “You ok?” Frank asked, turning to look over the back of the sofa as she walked into the living area.

“Yeah, fine.” Fliss smiled. “Mary in bed?”

“She’s reading” Frank nodded “Told her you’d pop in and say goodnight.” Fliss yawned as she slid her arms round his shoulders from behind “I’ll go now, then I think I’ll get in bed myself. I’m whacked.” Frank smiled and turned his head to give her a kiss “I’m just gonna finish watching this and then I’ll be with you.” “What is it?” Fliss asked, turning her attention to the TV.

“A documentary on whales, funnily enough. You’d enjoy it…” “You’re such an old man” she teased and he scoffed.

 “Not what you were saying last night.”

Fliss laughed “Well you keep yourself in good shape, what can I say.” With that she kissed his cheek and headed down the hall.

After bidding goodnight to Mary and Thor, who seemed very happy to remain in Mary’s room with Fred, she changed for bed and slipped into the sheets, stretching out before she got herself comfortable. She was dozing, drifting in and out of a light sleep when she felt Frank climb into bed behind her, wrapping his arms around her, pulling her to his chest.

 “Finish whale watching?” she asked as he dropped a kiss to her shoulder.

 “Yeah.” he said gently. “So you gonna tell me what my mother wanted?” “Nothing much…” Fliss turned in his arms so she was facing him. “She was actually quite contrite.”

 “Course she was…” “No, I mean it, I think she’s genuinely sorry.” Her hand gently traced shapes on his bicep “Maybe you should give her a chance to apologise properly.”

“That must have been one hell of a talk.” Frank snorted “You were all for dumping salad on her head before!”

 “We had a very honest discussion, I got a few things off my chest.” Fliss shrugged “And, well, like it or not she’s still your mum Frank.” “No, she’s my mother.” he corrected her “Your mom is a mom.”

 “Was your dad a dad or a father?” “He was a dad.” Frank said, “Most definitely.”

 “Do you remember much about him?” she asked.

“Little bits.” Frank’s hand tucked her hair behind her ear. “Mostly about stuff we did. Baseball, football, when he taught me how to ride a bike. All the fun stuff you do with kids really.” he took a deep breath.

 “What did he do?” “He was a Surgeon” Frank said “Neurology.” “Really?” Fliss looked up at Frank as he nodded “Well that’s pretty cool!”

 “Yeah.” Frank nodded “I wanted to be just like him when I was a kid. I sometimes wonder if I idolise him a bit more because he’s dead you know but…” “Have you ever asked your mother what he was like? You know, since he died?” “Once or twice.” Frank replied “For all of Evelyn’s faults she did love Dad. She gave up her own career and research partnership she had with Cambridge in London to move to Boston when she met him. Then they had me. I think she resented me a little bit at first because me and dad were so close, and then when Diane came along that was it, Daddy’s girl...”

 “No longer his main woman.” Fliss smiled.

 “Something like that. You know, I do wonder at times why on Earth she had us.” Frank snorted “if we were such inconveniences…” “It can’t all have been bad.” “Well we wanted for nothing. In fact, we were both very spoilt. And yeah, we had Birthday parties, fun, vacations, trips…but when dad died…I dunno, it kinda went to rat-shit.” “It must have been hard for Evelyn you know, losing him when you were both so young.”

 “Yeah.” Frank sighed “I’ve no doubt it was. I remember the police coming round and breaking the news about the accident…only time I’ve ever seen her break down.”

“You know before, she said that you remind her of your dad.” Fliss looked at him.

“Yeah she’s told me the same, last time I saw her in fact. Probably why she doesn’t particularly enjoy being around me that much.” “I think she enjoys it a lot more than she lets on.”  Fliss shrugged “And besides, I enjoy being around you. And so do my parents…so…”

 Frank gave her a soft smile before she leaned up and gave him a kiss. “I know…” he said, as she snuggled into his chest “And that’s all I care about.” ******

 Friday rolled around and with it came Fliss’ birthday. Frank was pretty sure Mary was more excited than Fliss to give her the gifts they had bought, and with good reason. Fliss beamed as she opened her various packages from them both, which included a bottle of her favourite perfume, a pale blue and white striped sleeveless button down which Frank had thought was quite nautical so very apt and a box of British chocolate. Bonnie had also stopped round the night before to give her a bottle of her favourite gin and a huge bag of sweets which she declared she was hiding from Frank as she didn’t trust him not to eat them.

Frank then handed her the envelope with her main present in and she opened it, her mouth dropping open as she looked at the Broadway Tickets.

“Lion King?” she said, looking up at him. “We’re going to see the Lion King?” He nodded, smiling “I know you wanted to go so…” “Oh my God…thank you!” she practically squealed throwing her arms round his neck, kissing his cheek.

 “You’re welcome.” he smiled, winking at Mary over his shoulder. She gave him the thumbs up. Fliss turned back to look at the pile of presents arranged on the coffee table before Mary handed her another smaller wrapped one.

“This is from me…and Fred…and Thor.” she added and Fliss smiled, unwrapping the small black box. She opened it, and a small card fell out which she picked up and read out loud.

 “We hope you enjoy your “Precious Paws” hand-made resin beads…” she trailed off, and glanced down at the charms in more detail. One was green speckled with gold and the other was blue speckled with silver.

 “The green one has some of Heidi’s tail hair in it…” Mary pointed as Fliss gently took it from the box to examine it in more detail, clearly seeing where the hair was wound through the resin of the bead “And the Blue one has Thor’s in.”

 “I…” Fliss felt herself choke up “Mary these are beautiful, where did you…” “Joanne told me about them.” Mary said, and Frank smiled at her “And then Frank helped me order them…” “They’re not officially Pandora but the woman said when we emailed her they’d fit the standard bracelet.” He said as she turned her head to look at him, her eyes shining.

 “Thank you both, so much…” she turned to Mary and wrapped her up in a hug before she did the same to Frank, giving him a soft kiss “Love you.” “Happy birthday Sweetheart.” he smiled, hugging her again.

As Fliss had booked the day off, so had Frank so the three of them along with Thor and Fred spent the afternoon after visiting Fliss’ mum and dad on one of the boats belonging to Paul, the owner of the shop Frank worked in. Frank had deliberately chosen one of the smaller ones so they could access the small stretch of sand just off St Pete’s beach that they all loved. It was quieter than the main beach as it wasn’t reachable unless you waded or sailed over and they spent the afternoon on the beach with a few beers and a picnic, before they headed home. Mary crashed out on the way back, her head lolling on Fliss’s lap as she sat at the front of the boat, her bare feet resting on the bar in front of her, simply watching the dolphins. Thor was barking at them like mad, wagging his tail and then suddenly he shot to the bow of the boat, placing both his paws up on the metal, threatening to throw himself overboard. Frank’s hand shot out to grab his collar.

“Dumbass…” he yanked him back, and turned to Fliss “Does this mutt have a brain in his head?”

 “Don’t’ talk about my baby like that…” she narrowed her eyes at Frank as she covered Thor’s ears with her hands as he sat by her feet, tail thumping on the floor. “Fred does his share of stupid shit too, like getting his head stuck in cereal boxes.”

 Frank rolled his eyes “At least Fred knows not to jump in the ocean.”

 “That’s because he has no sense of adventure.” Fliss shot back, causing Frank to snort. Standing up, Fliss gently moved Mary, so that she was led flat down before she stretched and moved next to Frank who tossed his arm over her shoulder.

“Had a good day?” he asked and she grinned, nodding.

 “The best.” she smiled “I love it when you bring me out sailing.” “I’m driving.” he turned to face her, grinning. “You’re sailing.”

 “Whatever” he mumbled as his lips pressed to hers. She snaked her arms around his neck as his slid round her back, pulling her closer to him as he kissed her deeply his tongue sliding against hers.

 “You can unwrap your last present when we get home…” he said, grinning like a school boy as he rest his forehead head against hers.

 “Yeah?” she asked, arching an eyebrow

 “I’d let you unwrap it now but…” he nodded to Mary and she snorted.

“You know we’ve not actually done that.” she mused. “Sex on a boat I mean…” Frank let out a laugh “You harbouring a bit of a sailing kink?” “More of a sailor kink” she shot back and he shook his head, giving her another quick kiss before he turned his attention back to the boat as he guided it back into the Marina.

 He made good on his promise once they got back, loved on his girl. Once in the shower and then again later on when he woke up as Fliss had done the same to use the bathroom. Frank knew he would never get tired of hearing the soft cries of his names and the various encouragements she gave him when she begged him not to stop or told him how good he was making her feel. As he tumbled right over that edge, behind her 3rd, or was it 4th orgasm, he’d lost count, his fingers tightened slightly on her hips as his head tipped back in ecstasy. He lay still, panting as she collapsed onto his chest, his hands stroking up and down her spine as she lifted her head, grinning as she caught his lips in a soft kiss before falling down onto the mattress next to him. She looked at him, her eyes flashing in the soft light that was sneaking into the room through the crack in the curtains, a look of pure love on her face, as if he had hung the moon and the stars in the sky, and it was enough to choke him up slightly. He still wasn’t sure he was worthy of her unadulterated adoration, but damned it, he’d try constantly to be the best version of himself if it kept her by his side.

 He didn’t wake the next morning when Fliss’ alarm went off. Instead he woke to a gentle kiss to his cheek and as he roused himself the smell of freshly brewed coffee hit his senses. Blinking he smiled softly as Fliss placed a mug on his night stand.

 “What time is it?” Frank asked.

 “Just gone seven. I’ve got an early appointment with the Ariat rep at the stables, remember?” “Oh, yeah…” he yawned, rubbing his eyes.

 “You told me to wake you before I left.”

 “Yeah, I don’t know why I did that…” he moaned and she chuckled.

 “You gonna bring Mary up later?”

 “Yeah, I’ll leave he with you for the afternoon if that’s ok? Need to clean the boat and get it back.” “Course it is.” she smiled. With that she bent over to kiss him again and in a shot Frank’s arms were round her waist and she was flat on her back on the bed, laughing as he caged her with his arms.

 “Frank…” she whined, as he kissed her softly “I can’t, I’m gonna be late as it is…” “One more kiss, come one…” he pleaded, and she relented as he pressed his lips to hers before she eventually pulled away and shoved on his chest. With a pout he moved allowing her to stand and she shook her head at him.

 “You’ll be the death of me Frank Adler.” she said, straightening her top and he eyed her figure up as she did so and gave a shrug.

 “What a way to go…” he smirked and with that she reached down, grabbed one of the various scatter cushions that lived on the bed during the day, and smacked him straight on the face with it.

 He and Mary shared a lazy morning before they both dressed and headed out going via the bakery at the end of the high street to pick up a coffee and some Danishes for a late breakfast for Fliss as he knew she’d have left without eating any, she always did when she was out earlier than them. As he pulled up, Mary was out of the truck before he had stopped, something which he was fed up of telling her off for.

Frank walked into Fliss’ office where he placed the bag of food on the desk, along with the cardboard carrier which contained their coffee and gave her cheek a kiss. Mary shot into the tack room, grabbed her little box of brushes and shot off to go and see Monty.

“Bye then…” he said sarcastically, and she completely ignored him. He snorted, shaking his head as Fliss laughed.

 “Busy morning?” he asked and Fliss nodded.

 “I’ll say.” she nodded to the bag “Saturday’s always are…aww, you bring me breakfast?”

 “If 11 am counts as breakfast” he snorted and Fliss laughed as she continued sifting through the pile of envelopes on her desk. There was one that contained a few clearly hand delivered cards, he could tell by the shape and the fact they had no post marks, and then another small pile that had arrived in the post. “Bill, bill…oh…” She stopped at a bigger envelope. “A card?”

 Frank shrugged. She turned it over, ripped open the envelope and pulled out a white card with simple block writing on the front in multi-colours. With a frown she opened it and scanned the greeting, before her eyes grew wide and she threw it down onto the desk.

“Lissy?” Frank frowned, and he looked at her as she shook her head, taking a deep breath, before she swallowed and turned to face him. “Honey, what is it?” “It’s…” she swallowed, her eyes wide “That card…it’s…it’s from John.”

Frank’s face grew harsh as he grabbed the card and read the greeting. It was 3 words long. 3 simple words, but even he knew from what she’d told him about the name John used to call her, that it was from him. Happy Birthday Sugar. “Fucker.” Frank growled, tossing the card back onto the desk as Fliss turned to him and he wrapped her in his arms, letting her simply press her face into his chest. He rubbed his hand gently up and down her back as her breathing evened out and she stepped back. “You ok?” “Yeah…” she said, “Do me a favour and get rid of it.” “Don’t you wanna call the police?” he frowned.

 “They’re not going to do anything about a card.” she shook her head

 “He’s broken his parole…” “And they can’t prove its him.” she sighed “They’re not gonna DNA test or whatever on that…” “Fliss…”

“No, Frank…just…” she shook her head. “Please, do what I ask and rip it up, burn it, whatever, I just…get rid of it”

 “Ok, ok…” he appeased and she nodded, before she looked to the doorway and hastily her face rearranged into a smile.

 “Hi Steph!” she greeted. Frank turned to see a dark haired woman dressed in riding gear, Fliss’ next client. “DJ is ready, get Jo to get you on and I’ll be out in a moment.” The woman smiled and headed off down the yard. Fliss looked at Frank.

 “I didn’t think about the fact this place was so easy to find.” she shook her head “The webpage…” Frank sighed, it was something if truth be told he hadn’t considered either “Look, the worst he can do is send you shit.” he said, almost trying to convince himself as well “He can’t set foot out of Mass…he’s clearly doing this to try and upset you so…” “Well he can fuck off and die.” Fliss said venomously, “Ass hole…a fucking birthday card? He’s clearly losing his touch.” With that she gave his cheek a peck and grabbed a Danish out of the bag before she picked up her coffee. “This lesson is only half an hour so as soon as I’m done Mary can ride Monty and then she can do her jobs and stuff. You go and clear the boat from yesterday or whatever it is you were planning on doing and I’ll give you a call later ok?”

 “Sure.” he nodded.

“Love you.” she smiled at him, before she left the room.

 Frank watched her go before he looked at the card. She’d asked him to get rid of it…but something was telling him not to. He pondered it for a moment before he tucked the offending item back into the envelope and then curled it up so it would fit in his back pocket, before he headed out to the jeep, pulling his phone free as he walked. 

“S’up Man?” Greg greeted him as he opened his truck door threw the envelope onto the passenger seat.

“I need some advice.” Frank spoke quietly, glancing over to where Fliss was now stood in the middle of the paddock, the women on the large grey horse was walking around her in a circle. “Can we meet?”

**** Chapter 19

#riding high #frank adler #frank adler x ofc #frank adler x original female character #gifted #gifted fan fic