This analysis attempts to dignify escapist tropes with academic weight, but it mostly just over-intellectualizes the obvious mechanics of genre fiction. It is a sophisticated deep dive into a remarkably shallow pool of literary clichés.
Deep Dive
Prerequisite Knowledge
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Where to go next
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Deep Dive
An Old Flame And A Chilly Plunge To The DepthsAdded:
and I'm here to chat and read with you again.
Hey y'all. And I got a new job. So, there's a lot. There's a lot.
Let me just see the chat. Open up chat.
Mhm.
Okay.
Oh, I think it froze.
Okay.
Let's go. Yo, mama. Hello.
How you doing?
Oh, dang it. Oh, wait. I still I I've been very busy this week. I haven't made a cash app, but I really appreciate the hearts.
Yeah. So, like, see, a lot has been going on. I don't know if I told y'all, but I kind of want to get into motorcycleycling.
Like, I kind of want a motorcycle.
I don't know. Should I Should I do it?
I'm short, though. I'm really short, but I really want a motorcycle super bad.
Sorry. Ah, I've been drinking with the guys and gals. No worries. Yo, mama.
Stay hype.
You got this.
I've been I've been, you know, I would try to hang out with my friend today, but she was busy and she started work, so I was like, "No."
I will see her on Monday, though, and I'll have a lot of stories for y'all.
But yeah, like honestly guys, I've been doing a lot of research on motorcycles.
I want to be a tiny bunny in a giant motorcycle.
Just kidding. I still need to get my license though. Like I would have to like do the whole license thing cuz you need a license to do that. Oh, thank you Joshua. Thank you for subscribing.
Hi. How's your day going? We had tornadoes, took out lights, electricity.
It's a lot of those are cranky because it was so hot last night. But we're here at the bar having a good time. I'm 105 years old. Having a great time. Great.
Wait, did you already like has it been your birthday yet?
Yeah, I get you though. It's been really hot. So, that's also what I've been thinking about. I'm like, "Hey, you know, it's really hot. I finally did that puzzle I was telling you all about with the gooti stuff and it looks really nice and I did it with my partner and I liked it. I thought you know what guys puzzles are best enjoyed with other people. Y'all should do that. You said there was a tornado. I think I just realized that tornado crazy.
But it's okay, right? Everyone was fine.
I have you up on the 12 TVs right now.
Tell us all hi, please. Hello.
Hello. It's me, Bunny Rabbit lives.
Hey yo, I just read to people now and chat. So, my birthday was May 16.
Oh, Neva.
That's past, I think. Right. Is it still May? I don't think it's May, I think.
Wait, yes, it is.
Oh, Nea. Okay. Happy Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday to Nea.
Happy birthday to you.
You got you got some at Kansas City.
That's Oh, but y'all stayed safe, right? Away from windows and everything.
Low to the ground.
Yeah. Woo!
Guys, after after this book. Oh my gosh.
I wonder what we could read. I'm going to have to read through everything and see which one I like better.
That's our bunny rabbit lives. Hell yeah. That's me. That's me. It's all me.
You heard that, guys? That's me. Bunny rabbit lives.
What have y'all like? Okay. So, if y'all could do anything and money wasn't an issue, what would y'all do? like what's a hobby that y'all would like to do or a place that y'all would like to visit or you know a food y'all would like to eat or anything like that. I honestly I would like to like go on a roller coaster. I still haven't gone on one. I still haven't. Or like pop some fireworks. I still haven't done that ever in my entire life.
Learn how to swim. Oh my goodness, guys.
A swimming bunny. Could y'all imagine that?
I feel like honestly, not only that, I think I would want like a motorcycle. Hey, guys. I really can't stop thinking about it. I've been getting a ton of like videos. I don't I'm not like I don't know cuz I've always been told like, "Oh, don't get a motorcycle." But I'm like, "You know what?
You know what? I'mma do it. I'mma get one just because I want one.
But also like with gear, even though it's hot because I don't want to, you know, be a person crayon.
So if y'all get a motorcycle, wear gear.
I know you want to look cool or like, you know, cuz I hear that when you wear full gear, you don't look like a girl.
But it's okay. I don't need to look like a girl. I need to survive.
I'm like, bro. I mean, if they have cute green ones, like cute green gear, I would love that.
Or or you could customize it. Could you customize it? I don't know. I don't know a lot about motorcycles.
I'm just learning.
But I think maybe a cruiser would be better. I kind of want a cruiser.
But yeah, and also like I've just Oh, I got a new job, guys. I've been doing great. Um, I love the driving, but honestly, they don't pay you for for like the hours that you go on the road. They only pay you when you're in the store because you get tips and like you get like reimbursement $3 or whatever. I'm like, "Come on, guys. Come on. Don't cheap out on me now."
But yeah.
Also, I've been thinking about doing more art now that I have more time. But also, I still have to make that plushy video, but all of my plushies are inside of a bag right now.
Y'all know what I'm saying?
So, yeah.
And honestly, honestly, I can't wait to like, you know, get a lot of money so I can buy my motorcycle finally. But I also want a new car. Not going to lie. I want a new car. I have a Kia Soul 2014, but it's getting old. It's starting to malfunction.
I call it a she because sometimes when I'm nice to it, it breaks better, guys.
Like, you got to be nice to your car sometimes, you know?
H I don't know. Maybe I'm going crazy.
Maybe I'm going into like um a car person mentality. I don't know. I don't Maybe it comes with getting older.
You know what I mean?
But yeah. And also like recently I bought some really cute clothes.
But I mean I'm going to be earning so much more money recently.
Maybe I can like actually I'm lying. I make minimum wage guys.
It's okay though. It's fine.
Are y'all staying hydrated?
But um honestly also like wait what what was I going to say? Guys, I'm so sleepy. Honestly, maybe I should just, you know, like get on with the reading because I'm like my eyes right now, I feel like they're closing even though they're like wide open on the model. I'm like this like you know what I'm saying? Oh, I'm I'm trying really hard to keep them open right now. I don't know if like what happened, but I took like Okay, I went to go get Canes. I drank like half of the lemonade and it's a medium, not a large, medium lemonade. And then I got so sleepy. I was like, "Bro, it was a trap. It's a setup.
Now I'm sleepy cuz I drink lemonade."
I don't know what it is that makes me sleepy when I drink things that are sweet, but it happens.
and it ain't it ain't likable for me. I'm looking at my um clothes that I bought, but they're cute. They're cute.
Hello, Riley. How are you? Are you doing good?
I hope you're doing great.
What have you been up to this week?
I've been doing a lot. I've actually been reading on my own time now, too.
There's this book called Tiny Nightmares, and I really like it. I like the stories that involve like witchcraft a lot, but I don't like witchcraft. It's scary.
Maybe I like to test my like courage.
Nothing really. You You didn't play no games that you liked. You didn't, you know what I mean? Hang out with friends, you know, color, paint, sing karaoke, sing your heart out. Whenever I drive, I have a fishbowl car, so I'm always jamming.
Always always jamming. Always dancing and everything. I might read.
So next, next time I read, I might read um the wormling series. Actually, I have shoulder pain. What happened? Why do you have shoulder pain like bad? Have you tried like massaging it or like moving it to where like it pops and then it feels better?
Cuz sometimes when I get like body aches or shoulder pain or back pain or neck pain, you know how when sometimes you wake up and your neck will not turn, you got to like turn into it slowly.
When I say slowly, I mean like extra slow, you know what I mean? Like like this, you know? And then if it hurts, like go into it slower. And don't forget to breathe. You go and then it like pops and then it feels better. You said it won't pop at all. Oh my gosh. Are you hyperflexible?
If you're hyperflexible, then I think you're just like maybe you just overstretched it or something.
Or I found uh CG Drew's other book that she made, the adult novel, but I was like, nah, I'm into young adult and stuff.
Although I would like to get into more adult fiction soon.
You said it won't pop. Um, have you tried stretching it? Not really. I a boy, not a girl.
A boy, not a girl.
How about I mean, boys still stretch. I think you could like grab it like Oh, y'all can't see me.
Um, so grab your wrist. You grab your wrist.
You hold it off towards your other wrist.
Not your other wrist, your other shoulder. But if you can't stretch that far, don't stretch more. Like, you know what I'm saying? Stretch to where you're comfortable. And then maybe it'll feel better. Or wiggle it around a little bit. VR horror games. VR horror games.
That's crazy because if I played VR horror games, I'd be screaming. Like there's there's like horror games where you get chased, I would cry like scream cry or something. Like remember that one uh demo I played last year, I think, or two years ago with the monkeys that would chase you and stuff? Yeah. I was panicking. It might sound like I was having fun, but I was panicking.
You're like, "I'm good. I am powerful."
Come on, dude.
Not me. Not me. I I panic. Full on. Full on.
You know, gorilla attack. What is that?
That's Oh my god. That's what it's called. Oh my. That was terrifying.
That was terrifying. I don't know if y'all saw the game. The demo that I played was called Dark Deception.
And I did have the monkey stage where they chase you around and you like have to find the exit and collect enough like coins for the exit or something. Oh no.
I was like, if you check back, oh my goodness, the amount of screaming I did.
No, it was like a uh Halloween special where I did uh horror themed stuff all October.
You said, "Oh, never mind." No, it's cuz like it's the same thing. They made a version for it for VR. They made a um Dark Deception mini game for the VR one.
But yeah, it must have been good because if they did that, they must have liked the thrill of being chased. Me on the other hand, I was full on screaming like a especially when like the lady was like, "Oh, you got to run." I was like, "Run? You think I'm You think I'm walking?" like yo no.
Hello po. How are you? Do I remember you from somewhere? I think I remember you from somewhere because um I used to know somebody whose name sounded similar.
You an original?
unoriginal Bonnie that I don't know. Yeah. Um but honestly, Riley, I mean, I'm glad that you can enjoy yourself with those.
Me? I mean, I still enjoy myself, but you could tell when I'm terrified.
I talk a lot when I'm scared.
I was talking a lot during that live stream. Oh, yeah. A lot of nonsense.
Just talking to talk.
By the way, it looks like you are playing VR. Oh, I am not. I'm actually playing reality. It is a live streaming app for virtual streamers. I am not streaming on the app because it mutes me when I do that. But other than that, I still use it for y'all. Like, so y'all can see what's going on, you know.
Hello, pal. How are you?
You doing good?
But yeah, me on the other hand, like I wish I could play VR. I think I don't you need like a meta glasses and stuff or like like the PlayStation headset or something to play that cuz I think they have VR chats on PlayStation. I'm not sure. I really haven't looked at anything. um meta like right that's what it's called right I really haven't looked at it like that because me I'm like oh I need to save money but I don't save money you know what I'm saying I have I'm a bunny okay I collect my little things and I make burrows okay so don't judge me we all have our things we like and I like to collect things. Okay. I spend but I don't have money.
Oh yeah, they do. But you have to buy a PS5 and a MetaQuest 3. I have a PS5. I just don't have the MetaQuest 3. Isn't the Meta Quest 3 like $300? Unless they increase the prices like they've been doing recently.
I also like apparently I hear that PlayStation has been shifting into like dynamic prices or something like that and I'm like you know what I'm just going to buy physical I'm just going to collect my games physical 500s I think they increase the price for the meta quest or whatever.
One second move.
Okay. What do you mean though? I'm moving.
But yeah, um I do need to I do need to like definitely save money if I want that bike that I'm telling you about. You said no.
I swear it was. It's the same price.
That's crazy. Okay. So, see, I don't have extra $500 to spare.
Actually, I can barely afford to pay my bills. So, with that being said, I have to save money.
Or I have to get better at streaming.
One or the other. Actually, I was debating. Would y'all be fine if I started streaming at 9? Because sometimes I get out at 8 and that's why I'm like, "Oh, okay." I don't know. Because on some days I get out at 7, I can't stream for y'all. But other days, and that only happens very rarely.
A fake person.
I ah I would really appreciate those though. You're right. A fake person. I mean, your mama asked me and stuff. I just haven't had the time because I've been so busy working.
Well, it's like $547 or $537. So, $600.
Yeah, I can't I can't get it. I think that's why I don't get it.
But honestly, yeah, you're right. I should probably get a cash app.
Y'all are right. Y'all are right.
Say so. I need you. Say so.
You need me to say so.
That's what I got from that.
I don't know. So, I'm going to say so.
I have the Metaquest 3.
Yeah. I mean, you you have to have some kind of money. Okay. Like I don't I don't I'm too like irresponsible with my income.
Three seconds.
3 seconds.
What do you mean?
But like uh honestly.
How you doing? A fake person. Hey yo, I got it for Christmas. Oh, it was a gift for Christmas. Yeah, I feel like on Christmas I go all out when I get gifts for people, too.
No, just three and then S. No seconds.
Oh.
Oh, 3S.
I need you safe in the empire. Pel, what in the House of Commons?
Excuse me.
I don't I don't have an empire yet. I have a burrow where I keep my fellow bunnies.
That's what we call ourselves here, bunnies. And we have a little burrow.
And I am very happy.
Can I do a flip? I cannot. But I can move my head and pretend I do.
There you go. I tried. I do a neck rotation.
There you go.
It look it looks odd. Honestly, I can on a trampoline. You can on a trampoline.
I've tried and then I like fell weird.
But luckily, my back is fine.
Y'all got to be careful, okay? When y'all when y'all jump on trampolines, guys, don't forget to like, chat, and subscribe. Anyways, I I used to have a trampoline, but it was one of the tiny ones. And I have this really fond memory with my dead dog where we both like fell asleep on it.
And then my cat like slept with us.
It was cute. It was fall and it was warm because the sun was hitting us directly.
I can do a front flip. Front flip is crazy. Front flip is like you got to have the guts. Also, back back flips, you got to have the flexibility.
You got to be flexible cuz you got to like throw, you know, you know.
Me on the other hand, I can't I can't do that.
Also, I broke my nail.
And I don't know how I'm You know what, guys?
Since I got into like driving for work, I've become less patient on the road, sadly. No, it's like a front flip, just back.
Yeah, you're right. Okay, front flip, just back. All right, I get to I understand.
But honestly, no, I cannot do that. I used to like do a bunch of like So, when I was a kid, I could jump very good, but now I can't. Now that I'm older, I can't. Um, I used to like jump and like twirl and like, you know, like basically like a ballerina, gymnastics, stuff like that.
And then um I stopped, which I shouldn't have. Honestly, jumping and dancing around like that keeps you healthy, guys. Y'all stay flexible. Stay active.
Oh, what was that? Somebody said something. Would you break a hip? I think I might. Yeah. Hi. I like your magical characters.
Hi. Thank you.
I think uh do I have magical characters?
I think I only have me and I'm pretty normal.
Nothing magical about me.
Wait, pal. What? What happened? Why is the message missing? Qu I'm happy you like my magical character that I don't know about. Oh, you mean my character? Like my my personality?
Oh, thank you. Thank you. I really appreciate it. I tried my best.
Actually, I made myself to be like the most normal looking cuz I was like, well, I'm just going to be a tiny bunny, you know.
Oh, I don't watch anime like that pal.
The other guy streaming is probably a Wait, who's streaming?
H. Exactly.
Wait, what? Girl, you're the best. Thank you so much. I really appreciate it.
I'm going to call you E or I.
How How would you like me to call you?
actually elab.
But yeah, honestly, I kind of wanted like a Beno. Okay, you want me to call you Beno? Okay. I I feel like terms of personality, like my character, what I actually wanted it to be like when I first started was kind of like a magician.
So, I wanted to sound like a game show host in a way. I don't know if I do. If I do, that's crazy. If I don't, I'm like, okay. I mean, everything works out. You know, his YouTube channel name is Ice Cream Can Mumbo.
Wait, have y'all heard Okay. Have y'all seen uh Chihuahua from the Disney?
Say you have. Say you have. Cuz I just remembered.
Ask your man 22. You're watching two at the same time.
Just kidding.
Um but have y'all you haven't seen it?
Okay. on Disney like they used to have this um movie this three series movies and they were called Chihuahua something Beverly Hills Chihuahua something and then it would go like Chihuahua Chihuahua like that but it it was cute.
I really recommend it. What do you mean?
Well, it's like a movie about talking Chihuahua.
That's what I mean.
You don't know?
Yeah, it's a movie about talking to us and they're really cute.
And there's this white Chihuahua and I think her name is Princess and then um this uh can Chihuahua and his name is uh I think his name is Puppy, but I could be wrong.
It's a really good movie.
I had a cat named Princess.
Honestly, me too. I think Princess is a really like nice normal name cuz I I had one called um Princess. I had one called Principe, which means prince in Spanish. I had one.
Oh, yeah. Mine's died too. That was like I'm going to say over 10 years ago.
Maybe like 15 years or more.
But they they lasted a while. They lasted a while.
Cats live long lives, you know.
Have like have you had any other animals? I I had a lot. So I had one called Socks. I had one called um Principe, one called Garfield, one called um Tikito, one called I had a lot, but I they would have kittens and we would have to like find them homes.
And then uh I had a bunch of dogs too.
Dogs. Uh, we had Chapaneka, Chikita, Chispito, who else? Who else?
And I had bunnies, rabbits, goats, pigs, a dog, and some cats. Wow, it sounds like you have like a barn environment.
Me, I have like a what's it called? Um, I used to have like a house, but we had like a lot of space, so we would have a lot of Yuki. Hello.
Yeah, I get you. All of ours are gone, too. But it's okay. We have more. We have Guatana.
And then we have Bologona.
And we have Who else? How are you today? Hi. Hi. Hi.
Hello. Hello, Yuki.
I'm doing great. Actually, I had a great day today.
And how are you doing? I did like a lot today. I visited my mom and I tried to see my friend, but she was busy. Hello, Netor. How are you doing? Are you doing good? Long time no see. I will see you right now, bro. Me? Yeah, cuz you're watching the stream. Yay.
Um, oh, hi Miku. Yuki, are you a Miku fan?
I I like almost all Vocaloids, all of their songs, but I also like um uh I think their names are Utiloids. I also like those.
I think I think I spoke about uh the rarest Vocaloid ever. I'm just kidding.
He's not the rarest. He became really popular at some point, but his name is Gakapo. I think something Gakapo. He's purple and he sings really deep, but honestly, he doesn't have a lot of songs from what I've seen.
Uh-huh. Mhm.
What are y'all's favorite Vocaloid song?
I like uh Butterfly on Your Right Shoulder and I think it's called Miracle Paint.
You know what I mean?
I like both of those. They're nice.
Nice.
But also like there's a bunch that are really good. I used to have a Vocaloid game, Project Diva X, I think, or FX on the PS VA 2.
I don't have one.
That's okay. Sometimes like the music is just okay, you know, or good. Everyone has different tastes.
I listen to King Vaughn. He's a gangster rapper. Oh, I've heard about him from my old co-workers.
He like I don't really listen to rap too much unless it's like um angry music or like Eminem. I like Eminem.
Oh, my dream is to play Project Viva.
Oh, you you could play it on like the PS VA. They have a lot of versions also on the Nintendo DS and the Nintendo 3DS and also on the PlayStation.
You can play it on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5.
Where are you from? I am from Mexico, but I'm here.
It's okay. Nothing there. Nothing there to worry about.
Project Diva is kind of difficult, too, though. If you play above the normal difficulty or like uh what's it called?
Easy difficulty.
Then it's like, okay, so easy difficulty is like one or two buttons, super easy.
Medium is like two to three. And then hard is like that's it. You need like 50 digits. Nah, that's King Von Vaughn is the angry one, but he never lies.
Yeah, I I don't I don't like I said, I don't really listen to rap like that. I don't know King Von like that, but I I know a lot about Eminem.
That's it. That's it. I just listen to Eminem a lot. But also like I like Play the Project Sai. Yeah. Yeah. Is that like the one on the 3DS or not? because I don't remember or like um or where is that from? I know there are more than the ones that I've played for sure because I played three different ones. I played Project Midi DX. I pray I played um Project Diva FX on the PS VA and then I played Project Diva Future Tone and then I bought all the songs.
Um, Project Sakaya is mobile. Oh, wait. Yes, with the um with the other characters.
The Gota system. Okay. Yeah, I remember that one. I played it too, but it was too heavy for my phone.
He is Slim Shady by the way. Eminem a slim shady by the way. Yeah, I get you.
I get you. He is though. He is.
But I think I think he's like I don't know. I don't know how to feel about Eminem truly honestly. I do listen to him a lot though. Like him as a person. I don't know. But I don't know. Honestly, I really don't.
But I've been listening to like old 2000 music and guys, they're really nice. Is Slim Shitty? He is two rappers. Oh, he's not. He's still Eminem. Eminem is like Slim Shady, too.
Eminem is the one who sings. I'm Slim Shady. Your son's real shady. All you other Whatever.
So, please stand up. Please stand up. Please stand up.
He's not. He's like, "They're the same person."
How? They're the same person except Eminem like Slim Shady. He says it in the song. He says, "Uh, what does he say?
Y'all y'all ask for Slim Shady um chopped liver." Wait, what else?
No. What does he say again?
They have the same fit.
Yeah, that's cuz they're like, well, I don't know. It's not about the fit. It's about like who they are as people. Slim Shady is just like on a lot of substances, which is the same thing. It's It's Eminem but in substances.
You know what I mean?
But I don't know. I don't know.
honestly.
But I do I do listen to him a lot.
Doesn't he say like I'm Slim Shady? Yes, I'm the real Shady.
Please stand up. Please stand up. All you other Slim Shady stand.
So the real Slim Shady, please stand up.
Please stand up. Please. But what's the other one? There's a the song that actually says why he became that. Like there's a song that's literally like y'all want shady. This is what I give you.
Ah, I forgot. I literally listen to him like once a month or twice. I should know it.
I don't know.
I don't know.
I forgot. I'll tell y'all next stream frame probably if I remember. I'm probably going to stream again on Thursday because that's my other day off.
I have that's his most popular song. the song that actually got him to like fame pretty much after he went slow because he popped off from being a um rap battler and so like he was already really aggressive but I think he like so called I heard that he fell off or whatever and then that's how he came with rap god to prove that he still was at his prime.
name.
Master Bunny, do you have a chronog?
What is that? What is a chronogy?
Yoyo Queser versus Yoyo. Who anime went?
I do not know. Pel, I really don't want to animate like that. Yes, it's his oldest song. One of his oldest. He has more older songs. It's Chronog in English. I don't know. Oh, I don't know.
Are you talking about a moderator?
Cuz I don't think I have a chronogen.
I am the one moderating for myself right now. Oh, chronog.
I think I do have a schedule, but I don't know like if it's going to be stuck in stone. So, when I tell y'all that I'm gonna um stream, I tell y'all like earlier in the day, like right before I stream.
So, I'll be like, "Oh, I'll stream tonight, but at like 5 or like maybe sometimes 10:00 a.m.
It's okay.
It's fine. I I said it for you.
Schedule. That's how you say it. No need to feel bad." No, cuz we all learn languages. We all learn something new today.
But uh what's it called? Um about Eminem.
I really like Killshot, too.
Like the way he like got mad at that star, which he started as a wannabe uh uh what's it called? want to be um Eminem, but Eminem like dug him a hole so deep that he quit and moved to rock music.
I always come back. Hello, Kingston. How you doing, pal? What does that mean? What does it mean?
How are you doing, Kingston? Welcome back. You sobb.
No, so dance, laugh, and smile. Just kidding. You could cry and then do that cuz that's what I do.
Sub is like crying, I think. Like really heavy crying.
That's one of his most popular songs, I think. Mhm. Mhm. You're right. I like his popular stuff.
Like I don't really listen to his old like battle raps.
It meets from the Five Nights at Freddy's anton. Oh, is that like the little cupcake thing?
I don't really watch Five Nights at Freddy's.
What is this porquay?
But I used to watch uh Markiplier talk about it or like uh the game theorists William Afton created Five Nights at Freddy's. I have to watch the movie for real. Where can I watch it? Do y'all know where I can watch the movie?
Cuz I for sure I need to watch it.
I kind of Wait, aren't they coming out with the second one soon?
The second uh Five Nights at Freddy's movie. I always come back. It's from Willham Afton. Oh, I thought it was from something else cuz I' i've heard that line somewhere before. Hold on, let me look it up.
I think the protagonist I really like the protagonist. What's it called? Um I think his name is Hugh.
But I could be wrong. Um, let me see. So Josh Hutter.
Josh Hudgererson plays in that movie.
Isn't he like I think he's like married now.
Five Nights at Freddy's one or two? Two is out. The movie I thought I thought the movie was still had to come out.
Netflix and on TV. Okay, I'm gonna look it up on Netflix soon or like after stream if I'm not into reading my current book.
Oh, stop like crying. It's sad master bunny, but I don't know how to said mahoras in English, but I think is get well. Mehoras is okay. So, I think the last person I talked to who talked about meoras said it was get well in Brazilian.
I say uh it's similar to Spanish.
or something like that. Yes, it is out Five Nights at Freddy's two. Oh, okay.
I'll look into it as well. Well, William Afton was a murderer, but he died and came back to life as a animatronic.
Movie is out.
The last person who said it is me, girl.
It's okay. It's okay. It's okay. We can all tear.
But what's it called? Um, honestly, I really want to watch Detective Sheep, I think, or something like Isn't that what it's called? It just came out.
Are y'all staying hydrated?
And he wrote 428. Why? He rotted. Oh no.
Oh no.
You would think that the protagonist Josh Huzzerson would have smelled it, don't you think? It was probably gone.
It was probably mama fight or something.
I don't know.
But uh what's it called? I have not seen any of those. I really want to watch Detective Sheep though. It just came out. It's about um Sheep, I'm assuming, and I think it's going to be funny. So, I want to watch it. I'll watch it with my first check if I make enough to save and also have fun.
Mimi. Hello. He killed Oh my goodness.
Yeah, he got caught on fire. Oh my goodness, guys. That sounds like a lot.
Five Nights at Freddy's. Jeez. I just remember the little cupcake.
I just remember the little cupcake guy.
And the little kid with the little purple one. Hello Clifton. How are you doing? Are you doing good?
Y'all didn't hear nothing.
Are you doing good? I hope everything's been going well. How has your week been?
Honestly guys, I've made quite a bit in in like tips and stuff at my job. So, I'm really happy. Yes, it's cool of Tech Cup C cupcake been good. I've been thinking, you know what I've been thinking? I've been thinking I want to get a motorcycle license and I want to buy myself a motorcycle. That's what I'm thinking and I can't stop thinking about it.
Oh, that's two originals all in one. Oh my goodness.
The crew.
The crew.
If I do like if I do like get to the point where I can like make like separate bunnies. So like bunnies like that donate or something. Maybe I should like I don't know. Maybe I don't know. Maybe I can afford a PC at some point in my life. I don't know. PvP, player versus player.
But he was still alive. And Cupcake was a dog. A what?
That got killed. And Tika, a dog was trying to find her dead. Oh.
Chica was like, "Oh, oh, you king and king. Hi."
A dog. I love dogs. That would have been sad for me.
Dogs are life.
And honestly, guys, I've never been to a concert. I think I want to go at least once in my life. You got a pet bunny?
What color? And what are their names?
Go Five Nights at Freddy's when?
Yeah, I I'll I'll look into it. I'll see when I can watch the movie or how.
What's the name of your pet bunny? And what color are they?
I hope they're cute.
It's brown. And his name is Bugs. Bugs Bunny. Hey, is that Wait, isn't that like a show of like a gray bunny? Yeah. And Chica died trying to find her dog. Big sad gooer song. What?
Looney Tunes. Yes, that reminds me of that song that I saved like the regaton song. The one that's called um notura or something.
It's really nice. I like it. play Five Nights at Freddy's. I I see the thing is like if I stream it, I have to take the time to look through the whole stream and make a thumbnail out of it. Which is why I switched to reading for y'all because I was like, "Oh, this is too time consuming." And I also have a dub and stuff like if I was like without a job like back at my parents when I was jobless back at my parents. Um, that's why I would like make all those thumbnails cuz I would like look through the video like whether it was like 1 to 3 hours long and then I would like, you know, make the thumbnail out of that.
But now if I do that, like I won't have time to sleep or anything before work.
And usually I I work full time. So, bro, my brother named her hamster 67.
I hate it. Oh, 67.
The movie is good, too. You scared?
Ooh, I am not scared. I just don't know where to watch it. You know, I don't know where to watch the movie. Somebody said Netflix, so I'm going to look into that and see if I can watch it on Netflix and then I'll watch it. But I haven't read the books or like play the games really. I tried playing on my phone once. I wasn't really like able to because it was actually it wasn't even my phone. It was my uh school friend's phone when it first came out.
So, I don't know. I don't know. Maybe I'll get the chance eventually.
But yeah, like if I if I get big enough.
Yeah. You will pull your pants. Yes. Yes. Actually, I don't really do that. I don't I like horror. I read horror books and like watch scary movies and stuff. The only scary scary stuff that I'm truly scared of is like devil movies. So, like if in the movie there's like possession or like the devil or demons and stuff like that, I get scared. But if it's anything else, I don't really get scared.
You know, like the mist. The mist is not scary.
Have you seen the mist?
I like it though cuz it's like scary, but it's not scary.
Yeah, it is like that just souls. FNAF was a real story about four missing children that got murdered. By the way, I see that theory. I don't know. I don't know. But you know what? is just a game theory.
A game theory.
I haven't seen that that channel in a long time, so I forgot how they actually say it.
But I used to be all about that channel when I was younger.
But the Five Nights at Freddy's, I wasn't really like too deep into it, but my school friends were like all of them would talk to me about it and they would spoil it. But I don't have issues with spoilers. I like spoilers.
I I know. I know. Send me a to crucify me.
Maggie Luffy. What is that?
Baldi Basics.
Oh, Baldi's Basics. I think I used to have a friend who would stream that.
I think so. For real. It's real. And the children got Oh my goodness.
Oh no.
Oh no.
Yeah. Bunny. Bunny, are you from Mexico?
I am from Mexico. I am from Mexico, but I have been Americanized, which is okay. It's okay because I I'm still Mexican. I'm just, you know, Americanized.
But yeah, I speak Spanish, too. I speak Spanglish, actually. Somewhere between Spanish and English.
You hate Freddy in the game. What part of Mexico? Uh, I don't think I should share that. I will say noon. That's it.
That's like the region.
North Mexico.
But yeah.
Have you seen the grotto of Mary? The grotto of Mary? I don't think so.
I haven't had a lot of time to watch movies, but I think like I'm going to start going to the movie theaters more often cuz I don't want them to close.
Y'all remember when I used to work at that um at that movie theater where they actually serve you food? Like they uh they have servers and everything that I used to work at and I was a server at.
It closed down.
So that job is gone forever. Like I can never go back.
Never ever ever.
My favorite character is Bonnie from FNAF.
Oh, really? Oh, Jesus.
Bonnie is actually Isn't he like the purple bunny? He's cute from what I remember.
No, it is a Bible verse. The groto.
I don't think I've heard of that.
And I I've heard about Bible verses, but I only know the popular ones.
Oh, yeah. Whim Bunny. Yes.
Okay. So, they are purple.
I'm glad I got it right.
Le Paul.
Yeah, he's blue, but he looks purple because of the lighting. Yeah. Oh, I thought he was purple, but I guess he's blue.
If he was purple, that would have been cool, though. For real. I think.
But guys, Rupendy won.
RIP Andy. Who's Andy?
I didn't uh Are they from uh FNAF as well? Cuz I have never heard of them before.
Like for real, I've never heard of them.
It's because the lighting is why he gets the purple looks.
Oh, okay.
See, I did not know that. But anyways, guys, I do have something to say.
It is 900 p.m., guys. And so, I know y'all want to keep chatting, but I said I was going to read for y'all.
Hello, Lynn.
Hey, the thing is before you get stuffed in a suit, it is called ending one. Oh, that's ending one. Okay, so like they're alive.
All right. Yeah, I'm going to start reading now. Oh, over here it's nine. But guys, as I said before, I do have to read this book.
This book I don't think has any like bad stuff in it that y'all have to worry about. So if y'all want to like if y'all are like I'm going to say young adult.
So like um 17 16 to up 16 and up you could say. And if you're anywhere under 16, I'm sorry. You got to ask your parents for permission or I don't know. I don't know. You know what I mean? But uh yeah. So guys, thank you for chatting with me. Please leave a like, share, comment, and subscribe if you have not already. I will be starting to read chapters three to four of Behoved by M. Stevenson.
Thank you so much.
And ow Lynn, I'm I'm like 13,000 years old. Yeah, I'm like a million years old.
50,000. Let's just kidding. I don't know. I don't know. I don't know how old I am, actually. Just kidding, guys. I do. But I got to get to reading. Okay, I gotta get to reading.
1 2 3 One week later, I stood at the rail of the gilded lily. My hands white knuckled on the polished wood. Salt spray kissed my face, stinging my cracked lips, and the wind tried to steal my hair from my from its pins. I closed my eyes against the sickening motion of the ship. I felt as if I were riding an unbroken stallion and coming out the worst for it. Each wave was a fresh surge of nausea, twisting my gut into knots.
The gallium plunged, sending my stomach swooping towards my chest. I bent over the rail and wretched again. Nothing came out except unappealing noises.
I'd already avoided my stomach into the sea enough times that my abdominal muscles achd. Some opportunity this was starting out to be Julieta standing carefully upwind of me rubbed comforting circles on my back. Only three more days to arm armhelm. My lady, at least you're not having a flare.
I released an eloquent groan.
I knew why the Council of Nine had chosen to send me by ship.
Oh, Shinoa. Hello. I'm reading, guys.
Dang it. I haven't seen Shenua in so long. How you doing? Oh my gosh. I have to get to reading, though. Oh, goodbye, Miku. Stay hydrated. Have a great day or night. And bye.
Goodbye, Yuki.
Yeah. Yeah. Try not to tell your age, but yes. Okay, I'm going to continue reading now. Sorry.
I knew why the Council of Nine had chosen to send me by ship. The massive Gallion, one of the ships that made up Damaria's fleet, was impressive. Every inch of the Gilded Lily's considerable length was built to catch the eye.
gleaming bulk works.
Crisp sails bearing a massive rendition of Dearia's blue nine-fold star. The adept forged cannon sat along the gun deck. The ship was a message and not a subtle one. Gildename had threatened war.
De Marriia reciprocate reciprocated with peace offerings, but they were offerings set with sharp teeth.
An armed conflict would cost our neighbor dearly.
I had liked the idea of an ocean voyage.
Unlike Tatiana, I'd never ventured far enough from home to merit one before.
But nautical adventures fe featured heavily in the romantic tales that my sister and I had devoured as children.
Stories of warriors defending villages from vicious monsters with dauntless blades of curses broken with true love true love's kiss. A brave adventures with enchanted boots that crossed seven leagues in a single stride. I spent enough time in a carriage to know I load the way they jolted my stomach, especially when I was in the midst of a flare and the journey was too long for horseback, my preferred means of travel.
To be practical, a ship head seemed an appealing alternative, at least in theory. In practice, apparently, I was violently seasick.
Since the virtue of mercy, my future husband was not aboard. The sight of his betrothed, puking over the rail for hours was not exactly the show of strength the council or my parents desired.
nor for that matter how I wanted to meet Eric.
I somehow doubted my intended intended would be charmed by vomiting.
A ship rolled. I bent over the rail again, wretching.
Something wet and slimy slapped me across the face. I leaped back with a yelp, stumbling as a deck rolled beneath my feet. Duleta grabbed me from with one arm. a knife appearing in her other hand to fend off an attack.
Regaining my balance, I looked around baffled. When was there was no sign of an asalent.
My lady, Julieta asked. I touched the hand to my cheek. My fingers came away wet and salty.
I believe the sea just left me in the face. Deleta's brow furrowed. Then she snorted and she her dagger pointing to the deck. Your attacker, your grace. I looked down and yelled again. A rainbow sheened creature. The length of my palm was flapping across the wet boards. At first glance, it was a fish, except I had never seen a fish with a set of feathered wings and a pointed beak.
"What is that?" I demanded. I believe, my lady, that would be a birdfish.
My brows lifted towards my hairline.
Those still exist? I thought they were extinct.
Curiosity overcoming my nausea, I pulled out a handkerchief and stooped. The birdfish decknifed across the deck, tail flapping feebly, gingerly, mindful not to crush its wings. I caught it in the handkerchief to examine it. The birdfish starred stared back at me, eyes bulging, beak opening and closing soundlessly.
Its wings fluttered against the handkerchief. Up close, they were not feathered as I thought, but she in iridescent plumelike scales coated by protective slime. I'd heard of such unnatural creatures as examples in a cautionary tale, an illustration of why magic's uses should be limited to unliving metal and stone. The birdfish was strangely lovely, but a shimmer of apprehension ran through me. The folktales sprang to my memory again, bristling with legendary beasts. Fire drakes that spat belly green flame.
Wire dwarves that hunted the souls of the dying. Trees that walked on their roots beneath the full moon, wandering in search of human flesh. If the birdfish was real, what more dangerous beings might exist in a country with unregulated magic?
your grace. May I have a word? A woman's low voice spoke behind me close enough that I flinched in surprise. Not Julieta. Absorbed and examining the birdfish. I hadn't been aware of her approach. I drew a bra a bracing breath and turned to face the newcomer, keeping one hand on the rail for support.
My hand tightened on the wood as I laid eyes on the speaker. A woman of Dearan heritage near my own age, her olive skin tanned by hours of marshall practice under the peninsula's constant sun. The wind plucked at her dark curls as if it cherished them for its own. Hands folded behind her back in a soldier's wide-legged stance. She watched me with caution. I had planted in her myself.
Virtue of serenity of all the people I wanted to talk to between bouts of vomiting up my guts. Catalina Espada, the captain of my appointed re retinue of guards and formerly my closest friend was exceptionally low on the list. I forced a polite smile onto my face, ignoring the guilt, doing its best to contort my mouth in the opposite direction.
If it's quick, I conceded. I'm somewhat preoccupied. Catalina's eyes fitted flitted from my face to my hand just as the birdfish gave a vigorous twitch.
with your fish.
Heat rose to my cheeks.
Sink me to the deaths. I'd forgotten I was holding it. I looked a fool, addressing her with a winged fish in hand. I thrust the handkerchief wrapped birdfish at Julieta. Um, if you would.
She took it from me as naturally as if I'd passed her a glass of water. I'll put it back over the rail, my lady.
Julieta turned away, her steps enviably steady despite the having the heaving deck. I looked back at Catalina, my heart sinking towards my longsuffering stomach as I realized I'd unintentionally granted her a private audience. By all the virtues, I was not prepared for this. I hadn't spent the last 10 years avoiding looking at her in the eye only to have an intimate conversation and route to my wedding. In truth, I thought I was leaving her behind for good. I never expected her to volunteer for this mission, much less to captain the re retinue of guards that would attend me in my new home. She deserved better.
Through my sleeve, I touched the outlines of the dagger strapped to my wrist. A new precaution, though one I'd readily agreed to. Maybe Catalina just wanted to talk about our security measures. We'd been over them extensively before before setting a sail and every night since the as well. But when it came to my safety, Catalina was clearly dedicated.
Better to get this over with. Well, I asked, working to keep all inflection from my voice.
You have your word.
Catalina glanced after Ulleta, who was now out of earshot and showed no intention of rescuing me from this conversation, drowned her. My captain of the guard rocked from toe to heel. A nervous gesture I recognized from countless hours spent training together.
Nita, our fencing instructor, would have smacked her. Not that Nita had retained Oh, not that Nita had trained her in years. Not Catalina trained with the palace guards, and I went to my daily weapons practice alone.
May I speak freely your grace? Catalina asked. If you must, she shifted her weight again.
I wanted to talk to you about. Her eyes searched the deck as if she hoped to find the right words inscribed on the planks.
"Yes," I prompted. The ship searched, and I fought down in another wave of vile.
"About your marriage," Catalina said in a tone that suggested each syllable pained her like acid.
My stomach royiled. "Please let her mean the security measures.
We've already discussed this. I trust your precautions. I'll be safe enough with the plans we've put in. I don't mean the plans. Any other one of my guards would have been appalled at cutting me off. But Catalina didn't stop or apologize. She carried on without a pause as if dragged full tilt by a team of horses.
No amount of planning will ensure your safety if the threat is the man you're marrying. I swallowed back nausea that wasn't entirely due to the ship's motion.
I don't know what you mean, Bianca. I'm not oblivious to the rumors. People are saying he killed his own mother to ascended the throne.
That he's cold and arrogant. Everyone's beneath him. He hardly talks to anyone if he can avoid it. I'm concerned for you as a captain of your guard. Her eyes finally lifted to mine, and a flicker of their old warmth showed beneath the eyes, glazing their surface.
Oh my goodness.
And as a friend, I kept my face impassive. The rumors weren't reassuring, but my betrothed wasn't the only partner in this match who generated gossip. I knew how whisper spread.
And while Catalina might be correct, she overlooked the relevant point.
My marital happiness has nothing to do with this arrangement.
Years of practice at hiding my thoughts kept my face untroubled and my tone even. My wedding to King Eric is a political arrangement to ease tensions between Gildaname and Dearia.
And that's why I'm concerned for you.
Catalina's gaze darkened. Did you agree to this marriage? Or did House Liliana?
I looked away from her, afraid of what she might think she read in my expression. Sunlight spread. Sunlight speared between scattered clouds and shimmering shimmerred on the waves, leaving a bright after image across my gaze.
I'm not being forced. This is my choice.
Gata.
A muscle in her doll flicked flickered at the childhood nickname. Cursed my careless tongue.
Now more than ever, I needed to maintain the distance I'd so carefully laid out.
Are you certain? Her voice dropped low enough that I could barely hear it. This wouldn't be the first time you were forced into something you called a choice.
Against my will. Memories sped past like leaves caught on a strong breeze.
Lingering glances before weapons training. The brush of a hand against mine as we passed in a hallway. A kiss beneath the ripe fruits of an apricot tree. Sweetness on my tongue. Those sensations were a decade old. But they had been my firsts. Despite my best efforts, I couldn't purge them from my memory. But those feelings were only a flame that had flared briefly and died out years before.
Despite what Catalina believed, it had been my toys to end things between us.
It was for the best. I'd laid those embers to rest and done my best to forget they'd ever burned. And Catalina had done the same. The last I'd heard, she was betrothed to a court, a good woman, one who wouldn't cast her aside when politics required it. Not that I'd been paying attention to Catalina's personal affairs, of course.
You're mistaken, I said stiffly. I know we've both moved on. I'm not speaking from a place of jealousy. Catalina looked at me, her gaze snaring mine.
But I know that what you believe and what you say you believe haven't always aligned. Bianca, if you're being forced into this marriage, if this isn't truly your choice. I raised my hand sharply, cutting her off like the good soldier she was. Catalina fell silent.
You're overreacting, Captain Espada.
I did my best to vanish all emotion from my voice. My mother would have been proud for once. I'm marrying the man, not joining his kitchen staff.
Catalina's fingers closed around the hilt of her rapier.
If you don't want this marriage, I could help you. I volunteered this voyage to protect you. You, not house Liliana.
There are other countries, other continents even.
And in all of them, the Marriia ships made port. Besides, there was the treaty to think of. Didn't Catalina realize what would happen if a war broke out?
While the concept of the Maria at war felt as distant as the bottom of the sea, something I knew was real, but couldn't truly picture. I'd read enough history to know its cost. War. Even when we could win meant sacrifice, and commoners like her, soldiers like her would be the first to fall. I put the ring of adept forged steel into my voice, cutting off any further protests.
I've agreed to this marriage. My decision is final. We won't speak of this again." Catalina's mouth flattened into a narrow line. I could see her disagreement, her hesitation, but her current concerns were only proof that I'd been right to cut things off when we were younger. I would always have hurt her. At least now she grappled with worry from for my safety rather than heartbreak.
Please leave, I said, my words gentler this time.
Nothing you say is going to change my mind. Discussing this further will only make it worse for us both. Catalina gathered herself, returned her shoulders to the upright posture of a soldier.
I understand your grace, she bowed politely. The space between us suddenly leagues wider.
I'll speak no more of this matter. Is there anything else I can do for you?
I turned my gaze away from the disapproval clouding her eyes. Sently at the back to me, "Please." Catalina bowed again and turned away, her steps rigid.
They sold her gate, dutifully, battling the ocean's turning. I turned back to the open sea so I didn't have to watch her go, and I vomited again, rtinging out the vial I'd been keeping at bay during our conversation.
Auntie, I hung over the rail. The sun dazzled from the sea into my eyes half blinding me. In the distance, a school of birdfish flashed in and out of the waves. Each leap a miniature rainbow, but I was in no stitch to appreciate the ocean's beauty.
Weariness hung heavy on me as if the ship's anchor had been slung over my shoulders. I wiped my mouth, the acid taste of my own stomach content stinging my pallet.
I was in the public eye. I needed to appear strong, even if on the inside my bones had turned to eggshells.
Bracing myself against the rail, I forced my shoulders to square instead of slumping as they wanted to. At least the city sickness was understandable, something I didn't have to hide. Julieta was right.
It would have been worse, but not by much. Even without the gallion's role, my own thoughts would have made me nauseated.
My parents, my sister, now Catalina, who apparently could still cut me even through the walls I'd built between us.
Each said they supported me while questioning all my decisions. I knew they wanted the best for me, but I wished they trusted me to decide what that meant for myself.
I was almost 26, a woman grown. I wasn't a child, deluding myself with the glitter of a golden crown, unaware of the sharpness beneath its bright gleam.
I knew what this decision detailed or entailed, and I had made it anyway.
A husband or a war. The choice was simple. I touched the hidden dagger again, tracing the outlines of its teeth. Perhaps Catalina was right about my future husband's character. I knew hardly anything of the man. No one had expected him to ascend the throne before reaching the age of 30. So, he hadn't been the subject of intense surveillance, and he'd largely hidden himself from the public eye. His father had died young and his mother, the widowed queen, had been in excellent health until her sudden demise, or at least so our ambassador reported.
A monarchy that used blood for magic, if the rumors that Tiana had told me were correct, must be a ruthless lineage.
Perhaps Eric really had killed his mother to gain the throne.
The thoughts sent a shiver down my back, but I brushed it aside. There was no guarantee that the rumors were true or that they weren't an exaggeration of something far more benign. Even if Eric and I weren't ultimately a good match, this marriage was still an opportunity to unfold my life from the rigid shape it had always be always heed.
Already, I'd seen more of the world in the past few days than I had in my entire lifetime, complete with bird fishes to the face.
Perhaps my future husband would be equally surprising.
In any case, whoever my betro proved to be, I would learn soon enough and I would match him blade for blade, move for move, perhaps even heart for heart.
Though I knew better than to count on the last, it didn't matter. Noble marriages were built on necessity, not love. And this was the right choice, the only one. I had to see it through.
Chapter 4.
When the gilded lily reached Arnhelm, the capital of Gildename, we hove into port under clouds heavy with the threat of rain. I stood on the corridor deck and watched the city swallow the ship. Where do the Marrian towns boasted clusters of whitewashed buildings with terracotta roofs, the houses here were the muted gray of old limestone and hunkered low to the ground.
Arnhelm's streets were twisting and narrow, as if each had been rested with great effort from a land reluctant to be tamed.
As we coasted into the harbor's mouth, dwarves extended towards us like fangs.
I followed the line of the city up from the docks where it clawed its way towards the mountains before becoming engulfed by mist. I knew the castle rested there at Arnhelm's highest point, poised between mountains and sea, but thanks to the cloud thick skies, I couldn't see my future home.
Home. The word felt as foreign as Gilden tongue.
Another thing I would have to grow accustomed to. I shivered and pulled my embroidered shaw closer around my shoulders. In the Maria, spring was already dancing through the hills, flowers springing abundant like countries in brightly colored ball gowns. But I wouldn't be surprised if snow still veiled the earth of gilding, gray stone under gray skies. I felt like the entire country was devoid of color.
Julieta touched my shoulder, her hand warmer than the air by a wide margin.
Is your condition flaring again, your grace? I shook my head, resisting the urge to lean into the comfort of her touch. I did feel somewhat lightheaded, but I suspected that was due to vomiting most of the way to Gildename rather than my illness.
It's nothing, only the breeze. Julieta's dubious look told me she didn't believe my words, but she didn't question them.
There was nothing she could change about the circumstances. Anyways, we were almost at the docks, close enough to count the soldiers awaiting us, should I care to do so. I'd already taken a primitive dose of tonic this morning, and I wasn't about to gulp another in front of my betrod.
I had only one opportunity to make a first impression. I couldn't squander it on a moment of weakness.
I let out my breath. There was nothing to be concerned about. I was perfectly fine. I was here of my own valition, accompanied by the blessing of the entire council of nine, a halfozen well-trained soldiers and my personal apothecary.
Diplomacy had prevented the council from sending a fully trained adept as well.
But it wouldn't have been necessary. I was as safe as I could be. With a thud of weathered wood, the gang way connected with the warf. I scanned the quay, searching for my betrothed.
The banner of Gildaname, a green field with a winged white horse, wearing a crown, flew over a double line of soldiers stretching along the pier.
They were dressed in forest green coats, long in the gilded style and reaching to the knee rather than the gleaming armor and the deep blue adornments I was accustomed to. The points of their halberts glittered like icicles in the wan of sunlight as the soldiers angled their weapons forward, creating a tunnel that gave the impression of a gauntlet gauntlet rather than an honor guard.
Instead of a pistol and powdered kit at one hip, they bore heavy sabers. I'd known firearms were uncommon in Gildaname since Dearan imports were their only source, but I hadn't realized they were so scarce. Even the castle guard didn't wear them. The reminder of Gildaname's backwardness should have been comforting. But somehow the lack of pistols only made the soldiers more imposing.
I resisted the urge to touch any hidden dagger.
This was only an honor guard. I reminded myself as uh my heart sped faster.
They were here to welcome me to Gildin.
I'd expected to be greeted by a group of quarters, not a show of military force.
But the customs of our northern neighbor were different. This wasn't a threat.
We'd signed the treaty after all. There was no need for hostilities.
That was the entire point of being here.
Your grace, Julieta prompted, her voice pitched for my ears alone. Everyone is waiting. Of course, as the most important member of the delegation, I was to disembark first. I sent a silent prayer to the virtue of strength that my legs would be steady and descended the stairs from the quarter deck, making my way to the rail.
Up close, the gang way was terrifyingly narrow. Its angle changed every second as the gilded lily lifted on the water and then dropped again. A small movement that would have meant little to someone with steadier legs. My vision swam and I gritted my teeth. Oceans drowned the cumbersome skirts of the formal dress I'd chosen.
I could have worn trousers, but I'd wanted to make a strong first impression, and yards of extens expensive imported silk were a means to that end. At least my skirts would hide the wobble in my knees.
I took a deep breath and stepped onto the gang way. It was deeper than I'd expected, but there were raised slats of wood set into it for traction.
This wouldn't be so bad.
Ahead of me, a carried store thudded closed. I looked up as a man stepped into the mist of midst of the soldiers, tall, pale, with hair the faded color of old wheat, tied back into a queue in the northern style.
He didn't match the portraits I'd been studying, but that was to be expected.
This must be him, my betrothed. Eric of Gildiname. I summoned a smile, lifting my hand in greeting, only to step on the hem of my own skirts, windmill frantically, and topple face first into the harbor. Oh no. It was a short drop from the gang way. I didn't even have time to scream before I plunged into the frigid water. Bubbles fizzing around me like champagne. My skirts, my ornate, cumbersome skirts, billowed around me, far heavier than any fabric had the right to be. The harbor's cold hit me like a physical blow. I fought off my shock and kicked towards the surface, salt burning my eyes. Oh no! He hands closed around my arms and hauled me out of the water. My feet landed on the solid planks of the wararf, my knees buckling under me at the impact. I wiped my eyes, coughing and spluttering. When I managed to clear my vision, I found myself flanked by two soldiers dressed in gilded and green. The sleeves of their uniforms darkened by salt water.
Eric's soldiers already on the quay. They'd been closer than my own guards. Ocean, take me to the depths. So much for making a first impression. This was one of the entire guilden court would remember for perpetuity.
Only force of habit kept me from curdle curling into a sudden ball of mortification.
My lady, Julieta pushed past the shoulders, shrugging off her own shaw.
She wrapped it around my shoulders. Mine must be sinking towards the bottom of the harbor.
The thank you. I managed through chattering teeth.
I hugged the shaw closer and turned to the soldiers who had pulled me ashore.
Thank you you as well for your swift action. The two women exchanged a blank look. They probably didn't even understand Marion. I should have addressed them in Gilden instead.
That is Liliana. I looked up and my stomach curled with embarrassment. The man from the carriage stood only a few steps away, watching water drip from my skirts and form a slowly spreading stain on the docks. The curve of his mouth tiptoed the border between amusement and mockery. Dismay rippled through me. Up close, he matched the portraits even less, and he was much older than I'd expected. He looked closer to 40 than 30, though the morning gray he wore could have aged him. Still, this had to be my betrothed. You, your majesty, I ventured.
He shook his head. No, your grace. I'm Lord Von of Gildenameim, merely a humble corridor at your service. I've been sent to escort you to the castle. Anger sparked in my test, hot and bright, a humble quarter. Eric hadn't sent hadn't even sent someone important to greet me.
I was shivering hard and being cold, wet, and humiliated only soared my mood.
Soued my mood. My tone sharpened to a wizard edge.
I had expected King Eric to meet me.
Lord Varian's mouth tightened ever so light slightly. Displeasure annoyance regret. I wasn't certain which his expression indicated or who it was aimed at. The air apparent has many other pressing duties, my lady.
But he greatly anticipates meeting you at a mutually convenient time. He placed just enough emphasis on Eric's title to make my error clear. My betrothed had yet to be crowned.
Years of practice kept my face free of emotion.
Even while indignation burned in my chest, I bit my tongue, preventing myself from unleashing my tongue to Vin.
He was only here to on Eric's orders.
But Eric himself, when I saw him face to face, he should be prepared to get on his knees and gravel. I lifted my chin, my anger giving me warmth.
In that case, Lord Ven, let us proceed to the castle. I will be sure to thank the heir apparent for his warm welcome when I see him.
Von offered me his arm and I took it, touching him. One second, guys.
Okay.
When I saw him face to face, he should be prepared. Wait, where was I?
Baron offered me his arm and I took it, touching him as little as possible. We proceeded between the line of guards, my skirts dripping a trail of down the wararf.
Other than the two who had pulled me out, the soldiers had maintained their formation with perfect discipline, although a few of them appeared to be holding back smirks.
I allowed an attendant to hand me into the waiting carriage.
Julita and Vin at my heels. As the door slammed shut and the driver slapped the rains, my anger tampered to icy resolve.
I couldn't afford to show emotion now to allow Eric to learn how deep this his barb had pierced.
But that didn't mean I would let this offense go unanswered.
I didn't know what game I intended it was playing, but I was not a woman he could insult with impunity.
I was her grace, touch Bianca Liliana, flower of the Marriia, and Saon, Scion of my house.
I was not some petitioner to be addressed at his leisure and granted the boon of his attention when he felt it convenient.
I was the representative of the council of nine, his future wife, his equal. And if Eric thought he could insult me without consequence, I would soon show him otherwise.
Just let him wait until our first private moment. I would knock him off his high horse so hard he would never mount it again. He greatly anticipated meeting me. Well, I could say the same for myself.
I really would make an impression on Eric.
One that might be Troth would be certain not to forget.
Put them on the defensive, Nita's reminder whispered in my head. That's how you win. I folded my hands in my lap and narrowed my eyes. Soon, Eric of Gildename would learn exactly how badly he'd mis misjudged.
All right, guys. That's it. That's the story. Yeah, I that's why I paused actually. So, that's all I'll be reading for today. But if you're still there, I mean, we could chat a little longer.
Let's see.
Oh, yeah. I I might have to go. Oh. Oh, Lymph. No, no sharing your age. No sharing your age.
And Riley.
Riley went to bed. All right. Good night, Riley. Stay hydrated. Have a great day or night. And bye. Please leave a like, comment, and subscribe if you have not already. Riley.
Riley, I think it's better to not tell your age. Yeah, I've been good. I see you doing good. I am doing good. I'm actually I'm actually um you know, a lot has changed. I've gotten a new job. I've I've been job hopping a lot, but I think I like this one. I like driving and listening to music, but they don't pay you when you're on the road.
I'm glad to hear you're doing good. This is so relaxed to hear, but I don't understand anything.
Oh, sorry, Yuki. It's It's a book. So, basically, like the girl uh gets betrothed to this guy who she doesn't know because he's threatening war cuz his mom passed away and he like became the next in line.
And then he like, you know, this girl I think I forgot her name.
Why are we reading it? It's cuz it's in first person, but um I think her name is Blanca or Bianca. Okay, so Bianca Bianca, she um is supposed to marry this guy, right? But this guy didn't get out of his palace to greet her and she took that as like an offense cuz they're about to get married. You know what I mean? So yeah, that's basically what's happening. And we also learned that she had like a nice like relationship with her um what's it called? Her knights which is a a lady but it doesn't matter cuz they are not together no more and she's getting married to a different person. And then the yeah that's basically it like we get a little bit into her history like her dating history as well as her his um her betro uh the way he handles her and stuff like that.
And so, yeah, guys, it was really not. I really like this book.
I've actually I've actually read up to chapter 4 now. So, next time we're going to read five and six.
But, I really like this book. I really do.
I'm streaming it for y'all because I hope that y'all enjoy it as much as I do.
But I I have finished it. So like for today at least. Not I haven't finished the book. I finished reading for today.
It's what I mean. But I will be drinking water once I finish. I mean actually I should finish it right now. Shinoa, how you doing? You're there.
What have you been up to? How has life changed?
I haven't talked to them in so long.
You said, "Yep, yep, yep, yep, yep, yep, yep."
Have you seen The Land Before Time?
The little uh green creature thing.
She goes like that. She goes, "Yep, yep, yep."
Just chilling.
Just chilling. What did you think about the story? Oh, yeah. Yeah. Have you seen it? It's really old.
Yuki, hello.
I can read until I mean, not read, I can chat until 10 now. But, um, what's it called? Uh, yeah, guys. I I really like the book, honestly. She like this writing doesn't make her sound like too sick to read. You know what I'm saying? Some books like when they show somebody who's sick, they are too descriptive. This one's not. I think uh uh I think uh it's it's a good story. I promise. It's a It's about this girl who's trying to get married to some guy who she doesn't know.
But it's it's okay. What What I think, Bunny? Yeah. What you think? What do you think?
But I have a bunch of like other books.
I think um I think next time I read y'all a book, I'm going to read the first book in the Warmling series for y'all cuz that's one of my favorite series actually.
I'm glad you think it's a nice story. I like it too.
Let's see how like so when she meets her husband, I hope it's like a nice happy, you know, thing. But sadly, it's a fantasy. So, I think and it we're only like 37 pages in.
So, I think there's going to be a lot of like stuff going on.
I think it's a standalone though.
So, I don't think we have to worry about anything.
You know what I mean? Like, it's going to have a good good uh ending.
Hopefully. Hopefully. I've never read this book before, so I hope it's a good ending.
Uh, I do not understand nothing from Oh, you do not. You do not.
It's okay. It's okay.
From the book. You don't understand anything from the book. It's just a lady. It's a lady. She's sick. She has like a chronic stomach issue and she's like in this fantasy world where her family sent her off to get married.
Oh, Yuki. Okay. Okay.
Yeah.
Oh, yeah. You did. But you're not you're not that active. You like last time like I don't know. You you talk too short.
You don't you don't give me full sentences. But um no, you're fine. You know what? No worries. It's fine. There's no issue here. We all have different personalities and stuff. I just I text in paragraphs.
But um for X. Is X Fore!
Foreign! Foreign!
Yuki, it's okay. I just call people so I can talk to them. Oh, you're not a texter.
Okay, I get it. But I don't want to bother you much. No, you don't bother me. I mean, I'll respond when I'm free.
Like, I have a job, but I also like make time for people when they message me when I can.
Uh, So, yeah.
No, but I don't want to bother you much.
I'm Filipino, but I'm bad at texting.
No, it's fine. I mean, there's everybody's good or bad at texting.
There's nothing wrong.
You're like, honestly, I used to be bad at texting, too. But like I was bad at texting because uh sometimes people get scared when they see messages like the paragraph ones. They they're like, "Oh, I ain't really know that."
I'm like, "Bro, come on. You can read it.
You know how to read. I know you know how to read." Um, but yeah.
Oh, you said okay.
What do you mean? I love that sound reminds me of the door. Wait, which one like that?
What? What sound? I I don't think I can replicate it.
like that.
I don't know.
I don't know.
You're the like that.
Yeah.
Is that the sound?
I mean, you're learning, right? I mean, are you learning some English? Oh, yeah.
I'm also bad at my language. Nah, you're probably not sometimes. Like, I'm pretty bad at writing in Spanish, honestly.
Like, I can write in Spanish, but I write it bad cuz in Spanish, you have to like put the accents and stuff, and I can't write like that. Well, Yuki, I'm glad that you're learning some English with us as well as some Spanish.
It's fun. I love learning languages, honestly.
But, uh, for a Br uh, Portuguese, I only know it if I hear it.
Yeah. Yeah. Is that the sound?
Well, I'm glad you're enjoying yourself.
I don't know Tagalog. You don't know Tagalog?
You're lying. Wait, what? Do you only know English?
That's fine. There's nothing wrong with that. Some people only know English, too. Like, I mean, here or stuff. It's fine. I'm trying to learn some English, but it's so difficult. I mean, honestly, if you watch movies and you copy what they say, you learn pretty quick, especially like with context as well.
But you also like learn through phonics.
So like it's better if you like have people to chat with, you know, like on the phone and stuff.
It helps you memorize it better.
Yeah. So the way that I learned English when I was a kid is by watching movies.
So imagine like uh Terminator like when he was like, "I'll be back." Right. I would be a little kid and I'd be like sitting in front of the TV being like, "I'll be back." Tagalog is the Filipino language.
So when someone texts me Tagalog, I reply back in English. You know what I mean? That's fine. I mean, I'm pretty sure they they have translator, right?
And if they don't, I mean, I don't know.
Maybe you could like I don't know. Do you know it in like talking or do you know like cuz sometimes you know the language through talking or gestures but you don't know it through writing or something or the opposite.
Yeah. Tagalog is the um language of the Filipinos.
I I knew a few words but now I don't.
Do Okay. Shino. So you don't know how to say hello in Tagalog? I think I used to know how, but I forgot.
I just know how to say like good morning, I think, or good night in in um Indonesian like salamat pagi or something like that. I don't know how to talk, but I know how to talk, but not text. You know what? That's fine because I like I said I'm pretty bad I'm pretty bad at like writing in general but like if I hear it I don't know is that did I say it right I hope I said it right if I didn't okay Oh, no.
I I try my best.
Something I don't know.
Or something like that. I don't know.
I'm trying my best.
It's like I I like learning languages. I just like, you know, I I wouldn't say I'm like the best.
I know the basics, but if become more deeper meaning, I can't understand that.
Espang.
Uhhuh.
It means hello.
like that. Okay.
Wait, so I said it right.
Yuki, how do you say hello in Portuguese? Hola. Ai say hola in uh and um Portuguese.
You say hello.
We learning. We learning out here, you know, in in Spanish to say good morning, you say buenas.
Yeah. In Tagalog.
Hello. in Tagalog.
But I think um if you want to know like um salami is I think good morning or good night in Indonesian.
Oh, in Portuguese you can say oi or hola. Yeah, in Spanish is like hola.
just like that I think. Okay.
But yeah, I mean, hey, as long as you're learning or maybe I could read like Yeah, like after I finish reading this book, I could read like a easier level book and then we can learn like English through that.
It's a really short book, too. It's called Bonicula.
It's for younger crowds, though.
I'm just playing the new game NTE. I started playing ZZZ.
Oh, wait. Okay. What is NTE? But I know what ZZZ is. Stainless Zero. Something like that.
PC PlayStation. Okay.
Never to everess. Yeah, actually I've seen ads about that game. I just haven't tried it. But we don't use the correct words because this is the Portuguese is so difficult.
Portuguese is difficult.
I kind of want to learn, not going to lie, I kind of want to learn Portuguese.
Portuguese and like the language and stuff.
It's just cuz like I might run into somebody who speaks it and then we can communicate together like this.
Is neverness to everness good?
Oh. Oh my god, guys. Actually, I'm looking at the time and I do have to end the stream sadly. I would love to chat more, but I do have work and you know.
Yeah. Uh oh, yeah. The game has to be fun. Yeah. All right, guys. Thank you for watching. Please leave a like, share, comment, and subscribe if you have not already. Stay hydrated. Have a great day or night. And bye.
I'm going to say it in Spanish, too.
Okay.
notes. Bye-bye. Good night.
Bye.
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