#&& savagery in the streets ⟪ event ⟫

[fatehbaz]

[A]bout two third of the Swiss population visited the “Village noir” in Geneva. How is it possible that [...] the exhibition of 200 African people that two million people visited has fallen into oblivion? [...] Today, Geneva is considered one of the capitals of [so-called] [”]human rights[”]. Back in 1896, during the Swiss Second National Exhibition, it hosted a human zoo. There are very few visible references to it, except for one street called after its corresponding “white” exhibition, the “Village Suisse”. However, several researchers’ archival work helped unearth the history of the first Swiss “Village noir”. Inhabited by more than 200 individuals from Senegal, the village was situated a few streets from the city’s central square, the Plaine de Plainpalais. For six months, paying visitors observed these “actors” living their lives. Their religious ceremonies were advertised as public events. Tourists could take pictures with the African troupe and walk around their dwellings. [...]

Far from being a Swiss peculiarity, human zoos were spread around the West. Human exhibitions were a form of entertainment [...] [popularized] in the early 19th century in Great Britain. [...] [O]ne of the most famous shows was Sara Baartman, the “Hottenton Venus”. [...] [S]he was brought to Europe from South Africa to participate in an exhibition. Such “freak shows” spread around Europe and North America [...]. [I]n the late 19th century [...] shows became part of national and colonial exhibitions. The first ethnic exhibition of Nubians occurred in 1877 in Paris [...]. For the ticket-buying public, the experience was comparable to a visit to a regular zoo; it was about observing “exotic animals”. 

As it often happens with animals, organisers re-created the subjects’ “natural habitat” [...]. The setting was constructed to perform authenticity. On the one hand, the civilisational discourse justifying colonial expansion and domination exaggerated the living representation and exhibition of the “savage” in need of enlightenment. On the other hand, the alleged brutality of the “native” was displayed through the mise-en-scène of their “primitive life”. These exhibitions did not present savagery; they invented a specific kind, which prepared the ground and fuelled further expansions and the ruling of “barbarian” and “uncivilised” societies. [...] All activities were meant to nourish Westerners’ enthusiasm for the exotic [...].

The turn of the century was among the highest points of scientific racism. 

This was when the pseudo-scientific attempts to create a superior race thrived within Western anthropology and biology academic departments. For eugenicists, human zoos provided ‘samples’ for racist theories. During the Geneva National Exposition of 1896, Emile Yung gave a conference where he presented 15 people from the “Village noir”. He compared their skin colour and skull size to those of a Genevan. This process aimed to demonstrate how the size of the skull affected the level of civilisation and mental capacities. These ideas were spread among schoolteachers and helped crystallise and expand racist stereotypes. [...] Visitors were presented with an invented representation of Africa [...].

Moreover, as Patricia Purtschert of the University of Bern suggests, evolutionism and racist human-development theories at the core of the exhibitions had clear educational goals. 

Thus, scientific racism developed within academia went hand in hand with popular racism: human zoos were places where these two faces of the same coin met. [...] 

Indeed, Swiss scientists were active in shaping colonial mentalities. [...] Unlike other countries, Switzerland did not stop its human exhibitions during the interwar period. Until the 1960s, the national circus Knie presented the “Völkerschauen”. It included the display of [”]Eskimos[”], Catholic Indians, “mysterious Egyptians” or people with albinism. [...]

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All text above by: Letizia Gaja Pinoja. “Dehumanisation, animalisation: Inside the terrible world of Swiss human zoos.” The Conversation. 23 June 2023. [Bold emphasis and some paragraph breaks/contractions added by me.]

[xaeethebaee]

Shuji x Shortcake Chapter Six

Minors DNI. 18+ ONLY!

Chapter Warnings: Profanity and masochism.

Disclaimer: All characters are over the age of 20.

A/n: So you finally meet the Kanto Manji Gang and things get really interesting. Also, this chapter is a very dialogue-heavy chapter, and to be perfectly honest I'm not the best when it comes to dialogue if you haven't noticed. I certainly tried my best with this.

Word Count: 4.4k (Longest chapter so far.)

Staring into the bathroom mirror, you cannot help but reflect on tonight’s events. It all started when you arrived at the Haitani house with your work friend, and despite the brewing anxiety, you eventually found yourself having a good time. That is until your drink was spiked and thus you ended up in Shuji Hanma’s bedroom.

Even though your childhood best friend gave you the reassurance that nothing has happened to you while you were unconscious, it does not stop you from feeling violated. It is especially apparent as you examine the black hoodie you are wearing since your short dress has been stripped off you. Hanma’s natural scent and the smell of cigarettes still linger on the article of clothing which brings you an odd sense of comfort that somewhat overshadows your already present uneasiness.

Your eyes then avert back at the mirror before you, and your gaze lands on your lips which have become chapped. Subconsciously, your fingers graze over them thinking back to when Shuji gently kissed them. It felt like your body was set ablaze feeling his lips against yours and all the emotions you’ve felt for your childhood friend was spilling out into one action. Admittedly, reuniting with Hanma has been the best thing that has happened to you in spite of tonight’s events, but why is there still a bit of doubt?

For the past few weeks, you were constantly bombarded with unnerving news reports of a series of gang attacks throughout the streets of Tokyo. The violence seems to get worse day by day and in no time, murders started to be reported. Law enforcement seems powerless against the sudden uproar of savagery that even the police chief is considering implementing a city-wide curfew. All of this is linked to the Kanto Manji Gang - one of Tokyo’s most dangerous organizations. So dangerous that many civilians believe just uttering the name brings misfortune to them.

Recently, you have not been able to get away from their presence. It all started the other night when you were face-to-face with the infamous group, serving their meals. Now, you ended up at the Haitani Brothers’ mansion. Although the brothers are known socialites and playboys around Japan, the rumors of their suspected involvement with the gang still persist. Said rumors have all been confirmed for you since regaining your consciousness. It was courtesy of Shuji Hanma who briefly gave an explanation about tonight's events.

“I took care of the assholes who were gonna hurt you then afterward, I took you to my room so no one will bother you. I then went to go see Ran and tell him about the mess in his downstairs bathroom. That was when I got shot.”

Hanma explains with a shit-eating grin on his face. In the reflection of the mirror, you see the tall man sitting on the edge of the bathtub as he finishes wrapping his injured arm with a cloth.

You take the time to continue looking over his body, admiring how much he has grown over the years. Without realizing it, you lick your lips thinking about your kiss previously and wondering how it would feel to press them against his collarbones. You then examine the muscles present on his arms and his abs that subtly poke through the white t-shirt that he is wearing. Sin and Punishment then grace your eyesight along with his long fingers which inadvertently made your imagination go off the rails momentarily.

“Did you finish washing your face?” Hanma asks, despite not looking directly at you, he can still feel your gaze on him.

Using the moist washcloth, you go over your face again, washing off any remaining makeup, tear stains, and dirt as well as figuratively washing away your dirty thoughts about someone who is supposed to be your childhood friend.

“Yea. I’m finished now.” You answer, fixing your hair so that it is presentable.

“Good. We need to get down there.”

Hanma says, standing up and walking towards you. Almost immediately he towers over you as he reaches for his hairbrush. You can feel his body heat radiating off him as he stands close behind you. While brushing his hair, he places his Sin hand over yours before squeezing it softly.

“Did you put on those slippers?” He asks.

“I did but they are too big.”

Shuji chuckles and then adds:

“You gotta put them on. The Haitanis hate it when people are barefoot in their house. This isn’t America.”

He says with a chuckle, making you roll your eyes.

“Where are my heels then?”

“They are still downstairs. You don’t need them anyways.”

Immediately, you reply with a stern tone:

“I’m not putting on those slippers, Shu. They are too big for my feet.”

“Well, they are too small for mine and those are the closest I have to your size.”

His response made you pout slightly, though you aren’t surprised by it.

“You have long feet, so it’s uncomfortable wearing those slippers. Plus, it’s easy to trip in them.”

Hanma listens to your tiny rant as he places his hairbrush back down on the sink once he finished fixing his hair. After that, he wraps his arms around you leaning closely and nearly engulfing you with his large body.

“It won’t be for that long. We just need to convince Mikey that you aren’t anything to worry about then after, I take you home.”

His words come out soft, unlike the usual amused tone he uses. You’re somewhat relaxed by them as well as the warmth exuding from his body. Even though it is not the first time you two are in an embrace, you always feel a sense of security in his arms.

“Besides, having long feet means that I have a lo--”

“Please don’t finish that sentence.”

You hastily cut him off with an assertive voice, causing the tall man to heave out a series of chuckles. You, on the other hand, just scrunch your face slightly reminding yourself that Hanma almost never takes anything seriously. Though, you still have a fuzzy feeling once you realize that he has barely changed throughout all these years, and that is even after being involved with the Kanto Manji Gang for so long.

Speaking of, you’re still dreading the fact that you are going to meet them in just a few minutes.

“Let’s get down there now. We can finish catching up later.”

He says, letting go of you, though Punishment grabs one of your hands before interlocking fingers with it. Taking a deep breath, you peer up at Hanma who returns the look. He just gives a soft smile and then says:

“It’ll be fine.”

After those comforting words, you set aside the dreadful anxiety.

It takes a few minutes as you and Shuji traverse through the massive Haitani mansion. Unlike previously when much of the house was dark save for the multicolored strobe lights, now it is lit with regular lights. You’re in awe of the sheer amount of decorations throughout the rooms, and even though there is some trash and discarded wine glasses lying about, you can still see the beauty in which this home has to offer.

Though, the brightness and beauty soon end once the entrance to the basement is in sight. You immediately see the contrast, and thus your anxiety and fear resurface, which did not go unnoticed by Hanma. The tall man gently squeezes your hand with his in an attempt to comfort you. The action did little to set your mind at ease once you two begin descending the wooden steps into the dark abyss.

After watching so many horror movies growing up, there is one thing you have learned. That is to avoid basements at all costs and here you are, willingly going down one to be face-to-face with the gang that has caused so much anarchy in what was supposed to be one of the safest cities in the world.

Upon reaching the bottom of the steps, you expected the basement to be nothing but a concrete wall and concrete floors, various torture devices conveniently placed on a nearby metal table, and the stench of decomposing bodies invading your nostrils. Instead, it is nothing more than an ornate high-end boardroom with a stocked bar off to the side. Walls are decorated with paintings and neon signs, the centerpiece of the room is a large leather couch that wraps around a rectangular mahogany table, and there is a sweet smell of lavender floating in the air.

The beauty of the rest of the home also extends to the basement. Although you’d like to be relieved that it was not the typical torment dungeon like in the movies, the presence of several men sitting on the couch sends shivers down your spine. Almost as if you were an art exhibit, Hanma presents you in front of the guys who all stare blankly, unamused.

Quickly, you recognize Shion who somehow looks even scarier as he leans back in his spot, legs manspreading like he is an authority figure. Across from Shion are both of the Haitani brothers. Rindou leaning forward with his face resting in the palm of his hands as if he is about to sleep and Ran pouting angrily as he holds what appears to be an ice pack over his crotch. Lastly, you notice the droopy-eyed bartender from earlier who still has that look of boredom on his face. After taking note of him, you quickly make the connection as these are the same men that you saw the other night looking as intimidating as ever.

“It’s about damn time you two got down here.” Shion Madarame says with a smirk present on his face.

Hanma just chuckles. He never drops his grin as he lets go of your hand in favor of putting his arm over your shoulders.

“She’s the so-called ‘Person of Interest’. Ask her whatever questions you need, so I can take her home.”

The tall man remarks; however, he is quickly shot down by a pink-haired man.

“Last time I checked, Mikey is the one who calls the shots around here. You just sit and wait for his orders like the attack dog you are.”

“Shut up, Sanzu. I’m not surprised if you knew what Mikey’s ass tastes like considering how often you kiss it.” Hanma responds.

Quickly, Sanzu stands up while twitching his left eye. You feel a lump forming in your throat upon noticing him picking up a diamond-encrusted dagger that rested on the table.

“I should fuckin’ kill you right here.”

“You can try, drug boy,” Hanma says mockingly, prompting Sanzu to begin walking forward but a voice stops him.

“That’s enough. Sit down Hanma and Sanzu so we can get this questioning over with.”

The man next to Sanzu demands with a bored tone. The man is blonde with dark eyes as he leans forward with his elbow resting on his thigh and head on the palm of his hand. He has a dull expression as he looks you up and down trying to read your body language and be slightly intrigued by the hoodie that is way too big for your body. He notices the way you’re slightly fidgeting as you softly run the fingers on your left hand and over your right arm in a self-soothing manner. 

Reluctantly, Hanma splits from you to obey his leader. He sits down in the spot closest to you, though you still feel alone as you stand in front of the Kanto Manji Gang.

“That’s definitely her.” The bartender says with a dry tone.

Rindou looks up and you two make eye contact. He just nods his head before uttering:

“Yeah, she came here with that teething bitch.”

Suspicious, the leader named Mikey just peers at Hanma.

“Why was she in your room?”

“It’s a long story.”

“We have all day.” Mikey quickly follows up.

For a moment, Shuji looks at you and you can vaguely make out a subtle look of sadness on his face. Nevertheless, he explains the events from tonight.

“She was drugged, so I took her to my room where she’ll be safe.”

The man next to Shuji just heaves out a chuckle. You quickly take note of his large stature and rattail mohawk. Menacingly, he looks directly at you.

“And here I thought you were just another one of Hanma’s whores.”

“Excuse me, what?” 

Those words slip out of your mouth before you could thoroughly process what the man has said. Offended, you just breathe a sigh, trying to calm your nerves. While you’re doing that, Hanma rolls his eyes and his smirk is quickly wiped away by a look of annoyance.

“Hey, ugly bitch. Be careful with who you’re talking to.” Came a threatening tone from Hanma.

The man just faces him, smiling as if he came to a realization. He just continues to laugh.

“Don’t tell me you’re getting pissed, Shuji Hanma.”

“I’m just telling you to be careful. She’s someone that I’ve known for a long time.” Shuji responds.

The man just laughs more, completely amused by Hanma’s eagerness to defend you.

“Long time, eh? About how long we’re talkin’?”

“Mind your fuckin’ business, Mocchi.”

Shuji’s reply came out sharp, showing Mocchi as well as everyone else that his demeanor has changed. This sudden conversion causes an alarming aura to ooze from the black and blonde-haired man. You can only watch as he just cracks his knuckles while glaring intently at the man next to him.

“Damn, did I hit a nerve? All I did was tell her that I thought she was one of your whores.” Mocchi remarks with an amused grin.

This time, a man who has a scar over his face was the one who speaks up.

“Well, now you know that she is not. Let’s get back on topic.”

The guy then looks directly at you and despite his outwardly scary appearance, he presents a soft expression on his face as he asks you a question.

“So you were drugged, correct?”

Hesitantly, you reply with a nod. 

“Someone spiked her drink,” Hanma answers while still glaring at Mocchi.

“Thanks but I think she can speak for herself.”

The scar-faced male follows up and then he looks at you again. Although you feel very uncomfortable, you explain:

“I got a drink from the bar then I followed my friend to the dance floor. That was when I started to feel………weird.”

Your explanation prompts everyone to veer at the bartender who is removing a lollipop from his mouth. Just leans forward as his droopy eyes become more focused.

“Wakasa, you were at the bar all night.” Scarface points out.

“I know I was,” Wakasa replies.

The room momentarily goes quiet for a few seconds before Wakasa adds:

“I stayed vigilant, and nobody fucked with her drink.”

After his response, everyone then looks back at you and then Shion speaks with an aggressive tone.

“So you lied to us, woman?”

You open your mouth to deny the accusation; however, Wakasa cuts you off before you could utter a single word.

“Nobody fucked with her drink while she was at my bar. Who’s to say her drink didn’t get spiked when she stepped out of my sight?”

“Did anyone happen to see that shit?” Shion asks.

“If any of us did, then the person responsible would’ve been dealt with.”

This time, another large man who is sitting next to Wakasa answers. 

“If you knew she was drugged then why didn’t you do anything about the person who did it?” Shion asks Hanma.

“I never said I didn’t do anything to them.”

An unhinged grin surface on Hanma’s face as he thinks back to his actions earlier that night.

“They were properly dealt with. Speaking of, Ran and Rindou, you two might wanna call the clean-up guys again. This time in your downstairs guest bathroom. You can use my card for the payment.”

Both of the Haitani brothers look directly at Hanma with disgusted faces.

“What the hell did you do?” Rindou asks.

“I’ll tell you two all about it but not while Shortcake is here,” Hanma answers with his usual shit-eating grin.

“Damn you. Is that why you came to my room earlier?!”

Ran angrily shouts, gripping his ice pack tightly.

“I don’t even want to know about what went on down there actually.”

The younger Haitani brother just groans while running his fingers through his hair.

“Knowing Hanma, it’s a fuckin’ mess,” Sanzu adds.

“Who the hell is Shortcake?”

Mikey utters in a soft tone, gathering everyone’s attention. It did not take long for the other men to catch on to the pet name that Hanma revealed. Quickly, they piece it together and Mocchi is the first to point it out.

“I’ve heard you mention that name once before when we were Tenjiku. THIS is that American friend you were telling Kisaki about?”

“Yea.” The black and blonde-haired man proudly admits.

“I thought she was just an imaginary friend.” Shion remarks.

“The more you know,” Sanzu says.

Mikey then looks at you.

“You’re the shortcake?”

You hesitantly nod while being moderately embarrassed by Hanma’s slip-up.

“Why do we keep going off-topic? We still have to finish questioning the lady.”

The scar-faced man says clearly getting impatient. Upon hearing those words, everyone’s attention is then averted back to you.

“So about the drugging thing-” He begins but he’s quickly cut off by Shion.

“We know what happened after that, Kakucho. Let’s ask the important question like, do you have any affiliation with Brahman?”

Once again, you’re confused as you’ve never heard of that name before. Just like before when he already asked you about it earlier, you remain to have the same response. Shaking your head, you softly deny affiliation, but that does little to ease his suspicion.

“I don’t believe you. You came here with that bitch who was clearly planning something.”

Once again, you are reminded of your work friend.

“Where is she?” You ask.

“I’ll tell you once you tell us why the fuck were you two here in the first place.”

Shion’s extremely aggressive questioning earns an annoyed look from Wakasa, the man next to him, and Kakucho while Hanma’s smirk once again drops and is replaced by a demented glare.

Momentarily, you pause trying to process the mixture of emotions that are inside of you. Fear and uncertainty course through your veins from meeting the members of Tokyo’s most terrifying gang. Concern overflows your mind upon fully reminding yourself of your work friend’s unknown fate and annoyance due to Mocchi’s initial offputting comment as well as Shion’s antagonistic behavior. All of these emotions together have you scrambling to find the words.

“Well?!” The light-haired man says, clearly showing that his patience is running thin.

“She asked me to come with her to the party, and I did. Our plan was just to let off some steam and then go home.”

“Yeah well, she almost bit off Ran’s dick.”

“Hey! She didn’t need to know that!” The elder Haitani brother yells, obviously embarrassed.

The reveal catches you off guard slightly and you feel a little bit of amusement bubbling up inside of you. Nevertheless, you continue to display a look of confusion.

“I don’t know what else you want me to say.”

“Prove to us that you’re not one of them.” Shion demands.

“Be realistic. How can expect anyone to do that.” Shuji says giving him a full-on glare as if he has killing intentions.

Shion goes silent for a moment which gives Mikey enough time to take over the interrogation.

“Brahman is a rival gang and your friend is part of it. How did you not know anything about it?”

Shrugging, you reply:

“We just work together. Tonight was actually the first time we actually saw each other outside of our job.”

“So you don’t know anything about what they could be planning?”

“No.” You shake your head.

A loud groan is heard and it came straight from Shion. The light-haired man just stands up before approaching you menacingly.

“Hey, what are you--?”

Hanma stands up as well, getting ready to take Shion’s incoming attack however the black and blonde-haired man is hastily yanked back onto the couch by Mocchi. Much to his dismay, the bigger man then holds him down.

You now display a look of absolute fear in your eyes once Shion is within arms reach of you. The man did not hesitate with grabbing your arm roughly, making you squeal.

“You expect us to believe the shit that came out of your mouth, girl?”

He asks, smiling as he is clearly entertained by the fearful look on your face.

“Take it easy. We have no reason not to believe her.”

Wakasa speaks up in your defense as he starts standing up followed by the larger man who was sitting next to him.

“So you’re just gonna take her word for it?!”

“Why not? She was drugged out in Hanma’s room while her friend tried to kill Ran. That should be proof enough.” The other man replied.

You look past Shion to peer at both of the men, who are clearly the oldest members. Shion quickly forces you to look directly back at him. He does think over the words that were spoken; however, there seems to be a small spark in his eye.

“Yeah, I guess that could be the case, Benkei.”

He says. Although it appears that he is contemplating, Shion still remains to have a tight grip on your arm. The grip is so tight that it feels like he is stopping the blood from flowing. At this point, fear and irritation boil over causing you to subtly grind your teeth.

“You are actually really cute. No wonder Hanma kept you around for so long.”

“Oh God, he’s being a fuckin’ creep now.” Wakasa slyly remarks as he rolls his eyes.

“This is exactly why he doesn’t get girls.” The man named Benkei adds with a smirk curling at the corner of his lips.

You scrunch your face in slight disgust but more-so frustration. Despite that, you try breaking free from his grip but it is to no avail. Hanma can see the change in your expression, and this time, it is he who feels an unhinged aura from you. The man stops writhing under Mocchi as a result, suspecting what is about to happen next.

“Shion, let her go.”

Kakucho demands but he’s ignored. Shion just laughs, feeling you shake in his grasp as the rest of the Kanto Manji Gang executives stand up, getting ready to charge at Shion.

“He said let go of me.”

You muster out though it did not take too much longer before your body reacts to the terrifying encounter before your brain can fully process what is happening. Your free hand rises up and in no time, it makes a harsh impact on Shion's cheek causing him to stumble backward while simultaneously letting go of you. All of the guys - including Mikey - stand in complete shock by your sudden action.

As soon as you calm down slightly, you realize what you have done as Shion regains his composure. Noticing a red handprint on his cheek, you just slightly step back.

“You fuckin’ slapped me!” He shouts.

“As she should’ve. You had no reason to escalate this.” Rindou remarks.

It seems the slap also brought some sense back into Shion as the usually belligerent and loud man just stands quietly. You’re just as surprised as everyone else, and Hanma starts laughing loudly at the turn of events.

“That’s my girl! Fuck, tonight has been nothing but full of surprises!”

He cheers. His demeanor catches Mocchi off guard long enough for him to be forced off Hanma by Kakucho. Almost immediately, Hanma goes to you before gently grabbing your arm and inspecting it.

“You better hope you didn’t break it.” He says.

“Of course, I didn’t,” Shion responds, rubbing his stinging face.

“Yeah ‘cause you might get slapped again,” Benkei says with a series of chuckles.

The Haitani brothers step forward while looking at you. Mikey and Sanzu are the last two to gather around you. The former softly gazes at you and despite his dark eyes and perpetual dark aura, you can see small hints of his childish personality.

“So what’s the verdict, Mikey? Is she safe of what?” Hanma asks the much smaller male.

Everyone in the gang - including you - looks at Mikey waiting for his response. The room is silent as the blonde man just tucks his hands in his black pants before simply stating in a blank tone:

“I highly doubt she’s involved with Brahman based on what we know, so that means you can take her home. Just make sure she does not come back here. Meeting adjourned.”

After stating that, Mikey starts walking towards the stairs followed by Sanzu. Relieved, Hanma puts his arm around you.

“See? I told you that everything will be fine.”

“My friend. Where is she?” You suddenly ask, catching him off guard.

“Relax, she just needs to be questioned a little more.” Rindou answers.

You’re a bit unsatisfied with the answer, but you stop yourself from questioning further knowing that you’ve just barely put everyone’s suspicions at ease. At this point, you’ve learned that despite the Kanto Manji Gang’s awful reputation, the members are nothing how you imagined. Instead of these scary and ruthless gangsters you see on tv, you meet a bunch of guys who you chalk up to being a bunch of weirdos just like Hanma.

“I wouldn’t worry about her much. After all, she did not bother to check for you once at all. She still hasn’t asked about you.” Ran says.

“What?” You ask though you’re slightly relieved at the confirmation that she’s still alive. At the same time, you’re conflicted as you also put the pieces together in regard to your friend’s behavior tonight.

“See, Shortcake? I told you that you have terrible taste in friends.” Hanma remarks.

“And what does that say about you?” Wakasa asks while raising an eyebrow.

The tall man just chuckles again.

“I never said I was a good friend but I’m a helluva lot better than most people.”

The remaining men just listen to Shuji’s response before averting their eyes to see your reaction to it. You just present a half-smile while simultaneously feeling conflicting emotions.

“Whatever the case may be, get her home safely,” Benkei tells Hanma.

“Yes, Benkai. I know what to do.”

Shuji smiles more and then he grabs your hand, interlocking your fingers with his before escorting you to the wooden steps. You two ascend up the stairs and back into the main part of the house, leaving the rest of the executives.

“I can’t believe he let a pint-sized woman shoot him,” Wakasa adds referencing your work friend’s previous actions.

“I can’t believe he has a woman,” Mocchi adds.

The younger Haitani brother then points out Hanma’s behavior.

“He’s so fuckin’ in love with her that it kinda annoys me.”

“I should’ve fucked her instead,” Ran interjects while sighing.

“Yea, she does seem better than the usual women we have here.” Kakucho follows up though he slightly scoffs at Ran’s statement.

Lastly, Shion speaks up while rubbing his still-red cheek. The sparkle in his eyes becomes apparent as a lovesick smile adorns his face.

“She fuckin’ slapped me and I loved it.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[Safe to say, the KMG are a bunch of simps but at least you're safe......for now]

[So about that Reader x Draken fic I mentioned a while back. Well, it turned into a threesome with Hanma. If you still want to be on the tag list for that, let me know.]

Taglist: @510hz @reiners-milkbiddies @sleeplessreader

[lboogie1906]

The Negro Silent Protest Parade, commonly known as the Silent Parade, was a silent march of about 10,000 African Americans along Fifth Avenue starting at 57th Street in New York City on July 28, 1917. The event was organized by the NAACP, church, and community leaders to protest violence directed toward African Americans, such as recent lynchings in Waco and Memphis. The parade was precipitated by the East St. Louis riots in May and July 1917 where at least 40 African American people were killed by white mobs, in part touched off by a labor dispute where African Americans were used for strike breaking.

The brutality of the attacks by mobs of white people and the refusal by the authorities to protect innocent lives contributed to the responsive measures taken by some African Americans in St. Louis and the nation. Marcus Garvey declared in a speech that the riot was “one of the bloodiest outrages against mankind” and a “wholesale massacre of our people”, insisting that “This is no time for fine words, but a time to lift one’s voice against the savagery of a people who claim to be the dispensers of democracy.” After the riots, many African Americans felt that there was little “possibility of the US ever permitting African Americans to enjoy full citizenship, equal rights, and dignity.”

Protesters carried signs that highlighted their discontent. Some signs and banners appealed directly to President Woodrow Wilson. A mounted police escort led the parade. Women and children were next, dressed in white. They were followed by the men, dressed in black. People of all races looked on from both sides of Fifth Avenue. The New York Age estimated that “fully fifteen thousand Negroes, who should have taken an active part, looked on.” Black Boy Scouts handed out fliers describing why they were marching. During the parade, white people stopped to listen to African American people explain the reasons for the march and other white bystanders expressed support and sympathy. #africanhistory365 #africanexcellence

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

By: Metta World Peace

Published: Oct 30, 2023

Lately, a lot of people have been asking me, “How do you feel about this situation with Israel and Gaza? I’m sure you know people on both sides.”

And I tell them, “I know Israeli Jews, and I know American Jews. And both have relatives, friends and loved ones who were raped, tortured and killed Oct. 7.”

Hamas has inflicted terror on innocent Israelis — more than 1,400 of whom were murdered in a single day of savagery not seen since ISIS’s horrific attacks in the 2010s.

Yet every day, new painful details of rape, mutilation and torture continue to emerge. 

Hamas’ terrorist attack on the Tribe of Nova music festival was heartbreaking.

It was something straight out of a movie and would have been America’s worst mass-shooting event of all time had it happened on US soil.

At least 260 young people were butchered (60 were killed in the worst such shooting in American history, at a 2016 Las Vegas festival).

Having grown up in Queens’ Queensbridge projects, I’ve lived through many traumatic events, but I’ve never seen anything like this: 80% of bodies were tortured, including electrocuted, burned alive, limbs cut off, eyes gouged out and, again and again, the targeted rape of women and girls.

Captors referred to very young girls they kidnapped as “concubines.”

Hamas took at least 222 hostages from many nations, including America, into Gaza, where evidence has already emerged of continuing sexual abuse.

As someone who has dedicated my post-NBA career to ensuring people get the mental-health support they need, I cannot fathom the mental-health crisis this terrorist attack has inflicted on Israelis.

What’s happened in Israel isn’t war; it is inhumanity.

There were mass rapes so brutal they broke their victim’s pelvises — women, grandmothers, children.

A baby was cut out of a pregnant woman and beheaded; then the mother was beheaded.

This must be unequivocally condemned. 

Let’s now talk about what’s happening on the other side of the border, where I also know people who are living in fear after Hamas decided to put its own brutal agenda ahead of the interest of the Palestinian people. Gazans too are being terrorized by Hamas’ barbaric actions.

I know Palestinians who live in fear of those same terrorists, and we must have empathy for the children in Palestine who have been hurt.

We are all human, and empathy is an essential value of the human experience. 

We must also recognize there is no moral equivalence between terrorist killers and the innocents they destroy so brutally.

Everyone must have the courage to say this when mobs of antisemites are marching through America’s college campuses and the streets of cities around the world, chanting “gas the Jews” and tearing down pictures of kidnapped Israeli children.

As an activist myself, I know firsthand there is a better path: a path toward peace and love that does not start with justifying terrorizing innocent civilians.

Pro-Hamas rallies have taken place in my hometown of New York under the guise of promoting peace.

These rallies, unfortunately, have done nothing to promote peace; instead, they justify terror against innocent civilians.

The participants displayed a concerning lack of condemnation for Hamas.

While freedom of expression is crucial, it’s essential to distinguish between advocating for peace and supporting groups that refuse to condemn atrocities against innocent civilians.

Responsible activism should unequivocally denounce all forms of terrorism.

These rallies failed to live up to this basic standard.

If you can’t condemn harming innocents amidst horrific images of Jewish babies in cages, then you need to check yourself.

If you want to help Palestinians, the best way to support them is by first supporting tangible steps toward peace by freeing Gaza from Hamas and letting the Palestinian people decide their own future without being controlled by a repressive terrorist organization.

Free Gaza from Hamas and its injustice once and for all.

Only then will we have a chance at peace.

Metta World Peace, born Ronald William Artest Jr., is a former NBA player who played for 19 seasons and won an NBA championship with the Los Angeles Lakers. He is a staunch advocate for mental health, even auctioning his championship ring to benefit mental-health charities.

--

Reminder that concubines are sex-slaves, referred to euphemistically as "those whom your right hand possess."

https://quranx.com/Hadith/Muslim/USC-MSA/Book-8/Hadith-3432/

Abu Sa'id al-Khudri (Allah her pleased with him) reported that at the Battle of Hanain Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) sent an army to Autas and encountered the enemy and fought with them. Having overcome them and taken them captives, the Companions of Allah's Messenger (may peace te upon him) seemed to refrain from having intercourse with captive women because of their husbands being polytheists. Then Allah, Most High, sent down regarding that: " And women already married, except those whom your right hands possess (iv. 24)" (i. e. they were lawful for them when their 'Idda period came to an end).

https://quranx.com/4.24

And [also prohibited to you are all] married women except those your right hands possess. [This is] the decree of Allah upon you. And lawful to you are [all others] beyond these, [provided] that you seek them [in marriage] with [gifts from] your property, desiring chastity, not unlawful sexual intercourse. So for whatever you enjoy [of marriage] from them, give them their due compensation as an obligation. And there is no blame upon you for what you mutually agree to beyond the obligation. Indeed, Allah is ever Knowing and Wise.

https://askimam.org/public/question_detail/17032

One question that still remains is whether slavery still legally prevails anywhere in the Islamic world and whether it can be successfully implemented in this age… Firstly, the prisoners have to be captured in 'Jihaad' in the true sense of the word… According to Islamic Law, captive female prisoners are also part and parcel of the booty. One fifth of the booty has to be first distributed to the needy, orphans, etc. The remaining four-fifths should then be distributed among the soldiers who participated in the war. The distribution can only take effect after the booty is brought into Islamic territory. The Ameerul-Mu'mineen (Head of the Islamic State) remains the guardian of the female prisoners until he allocates them to the soldiers. Only after a soldier has been allotted a slave girl, and made the owner of her, will she become his lawful possession. After she spends a period called 'Istibraa', which is the elapse of one menstrual period, it becomes permissible for her owner to have relations with her.

Islamically, they're fair game by the terrorists.

--

I'm not surprised by Hamas brutality. But I was surprised by the scale of their attack. Not to this degree. Wiping out entire communities, messing with nuclear power, the most powerful country in the region, a country with a trauma, great trauma from the past, with a memory of the Holocaust and all the Nazis did in the past century.

They opened the gates of hell on the Palestinian people. This is how irresponsible this group of people are. They are willing to actually sacrifice many Palestinian children, the entire Palestinian people and use them as fuel to just achieve their ideological agendas, their religious agendas. They are careless. They don't care for the human life.

We have to separate between what so-called Palestinian cause and Hamas cause. Hamas cause is a sick one. It's coming from the pit of hell. And they need to be removed from power.

This is my message. As an ex-Hamas member, as a son of one of Hamas founders, that enough of this. If we don't stop them now, the next war is going to be deadlier. And only god knows what will happen next if Hamas is not finished as soon as possible.

[windriverdelta]

POV characters for a prequel about the Dance of the Dragons

A thought experiment: Who would make good POV characters for such a story?

To begin, who does not become a POV character. Kings, first of all; the ASOIAFverse isn't about the Great Men of history. Rather, POVs are women, upjumped criminals, physically impaired people and so on. That eliminates both Viseryses and Aegons, not that the younger two would have much to contribute as POVs. On the flipside, it suggests Nettles as a POV; a street child and daughter of a sex worker is a social class that we haven't seen before and she can cover the Sowing of the Seeds and Daemon Targaryen.

Schemers like Varys and Littlefinger also don't work b/c they'd spoil the stories. Thus the Caltrops, Otto Hightower's conspiracy and the people that arranged Aegon II's assassination are out, too. Daemon and Mysaria too would be problematic in this aspect. However, we need a POV at the pre-Dance court and that suggests Lyman Beesbury akin to Eddard Stark, especially since he (as Master of Coin) can cover the economy of Westeros, important to Rhaenyra's downfall and a generally underilluminated aspect of the ASOIAFverse.

Queens however, ruling (like Daenerys) or consort (like Cersei), are fair game. Westeros is quite sexist, opening avenues for discussion of the unique challenges they face. That gives us Helaena Targaryen as the initial POV on the Greens, akin to Catelyn. Alicent is a schemer, after Helaena's death she doesn't contribute much and before she's redundant to Helaena in non-political aspects. So I wouldn't give her a POV. Heirs rather than actual rulers are also in the running, as we see from Bran brother of King Robb in ASOIAF; this gives us Daeron the Daring, Aemond Targaryen and Rhaenyra's three elder sons. I'll note about them after the following paragraph.

Rhaenyra herself is a tough case. The story of the Dance is to a large degree her story, female rulers are allowed and a Cersei-like writeup has potential. Also, I am not sure that there would be other POVs following her all the time, unless we make Joffrey Velaryon the initial POV and introduce Rhaenyra only after he dies. On the other hand, the parentage of her sons isn't meant to be blatantly obvious the way Cersei's children aren't Robert's. I tend to include Rhaenyra Targaryen as a POV, with careful writing around the parentage questions.

The seven princes that don't become kings (Rhaenyra's three elder sons, Helaena's two sons and two brothers other than Aegon) are a special case, as they are technically allowed but would tend to draw too much focus. I tend to proceed by elimination and thus make Jacaerys Velaryon a POV, as he covers the broadest ground - diplomatic mission, dragonrider, possible bastardry, the Sowing and the Gullet. Jaehaerys and Maelor are a little too young, a psycho like Aemond doesn't strike me as a good POV and spectacular battle scenes aren't the point, Joffrey and Lucerys cover less ground and have some redundancy to other POVs. Daeron is in a similar position, but he has a bit of spoiler potential at the Honeywine and operates mostly with an army unlike Jace's solo operations. So I'd cover him and the Reach Greens with a nameless but idealistic Reach soldier, who devolves over time into the savagery at display in Tumbleton - emblematic for the course of the war in general.

For the Riverlands theatre, there are a number of events and battles and not many characters that span them all. Not helping is also that for some candidates we don't know where they were for parts of the war (e.g Alysanne Blackwood, Humfrey Bracken, Raylon Rivers, Sabitha Frey). Closest is probably Benjicot Blackwood, even conceding that Martin tends to favour the Blackwoods overmuch. Alysanne Blackwood and Sabitha Frey are probably next. Going by AWOIAF - I don't have a copy of Fire and Blood at hand - it seems like the Blackwoods aren't the good guys; apparently they initiated the hostilities with the Brackens and committed religious persecution. A Blackwood POV would probably look a bit like Jaime Lannister, with religious prejudice. On the Greens' side, we need a POV for Rook's Rest, Aemond's campaign and maybe the Butcher's Ball; I sort of think to continue the tradition of Kingsguard and Hand of the King POVs and go with a "bad guy" POV, that is Criston Cole, but only introduce him after Aegon II's accession and have him cover the coup retrospectively. And his assassination at a parley, which is somewhat iffy as far as proper conduct in war goes.

That leaves two further theatres. For the Lannister operations, given their ignominious end at the Fishfeed and the way the Ironborn contribution has been neglected, I'd give the nod to Johanna Lannister. She can also cover the post-war and a discussion of women in charge who aren't the actual ruler, akin to Tyrion. For the Baratheon operations, Borros Baratheon might work for Aegon II's second rule, the Vulture King and whatever Dorne's contributions were and the events of Shipbreaker's Bay, but he's a high noble without much to distinguish him. Well, some discussion of diplomacy as seen from its targets and possibly of the (bad) pre-Dance Green might be warranted, since we don't really understand why some houses joined a side. The Four Storms might contribute to the discussion of using women as political chesspieces, and Gyldayn's framing is very sexist, but unless one of them accompanied her father I'd default to Borros Baratheon.

I am on two minds about Gaemon Palehair. On the one hand, as a child companion and servant to kings he covers another aspect of society and he'd make a good POV for the Moon of the Three Kings and Aegon III personally. On the other hand, a 4-year old child really would only work as a "camera that walks" akin to Areo Hotah. Another fence case is Daemon Targaryen; the rogue prince might have an interesting interiority, and the fights at Harrenhal might be interesting, but he's also a schemer, there are other POV characters around him (and Gyldayn in canon) and once again fight scenes really aren't the main point of the ASOIAFverse. I'd have Gaemon Palehair as POV and keep Daemon non-POV.

That leaves us with 11 POVs: Benjicot Blackwood, Borros Baratheon, Criston Cole, Gaemon Palehair, Helaena Targaryen, Jacaerys Velaryon, Johanna Lannister, Lyman Beesbury, Nettles, Rhaenyra Targaryen and Unnamed Reach soldier.

[casterlygldcs]

who; @ambroseserrett when and what: a random starter, in which ambrose is dragged into the mess that is the court of the westerlands. there are rumours spreading that certain areas within the west continue to worship according to the starry sept, rather than the new laws dictated by the great sept of lannisport. one of the reports include a small sept and settlement located with serrett lands, brought forth by ambrose serrett.

the procession through the lion's mouth was met with the sounds of drums and trumpets, the cheering of crowds that had lined the streets all the way from the gates of lannisport, climbing higher and higher into the clouds and the skies to follow the stone path leading to the lion's den itself. the people remained in high spirits, and whilst they did not throw petals as was accustomed to other regions, they sung westerland folk songs and cheered; and as the lion king held onto the reins of his faithful steed, he found time itself began to blur. it was in momentous decisions and changes did such events occur within the court of elegant savagery; when he married the lady of silverhill, she who had become his queen of choice.

it was entirely possible he could have made a more pragmatic international match, and yet he had decided to crown the woman he knew from what felt like the beginning of the never ending story: the court of the west needed perfection, it needed stability, and where else would he find such a thing except for within a woman of the westerlands? and now, the small folk line the streets and cheered various names, as though they were not returning from a coronation but rather as though they were returning from war.

but to the small folk, who had been forced to watch the kraken arise on the horizon like a scene from the end of times, to the small folk who had lost mothers and sisters to the sea if not the krakens, this was the return from war. king jaehaerys targaryen had taken his rightful place upon the throne, and it was their king that had overseen the final chapter of the dance of dragons coming to a close. his queen was one of the fairest women in all the realm, the middle daughter of lanna lannister: it felt as though it were the beginning of some fairytale.

but fairytales were often rooted in darkness, and in disturbance. and as the men passed through the mighty entrance to the rock that was the lion's mouth, there was a large number of serrett guards who remained within the courtyard and the keep: the belly of the beast, the lion's mouth was cavernous, dark and dimly lit. there came a harsh light in the arch that saw the sunlight, and the clouds, the sunset sea; and all those who remained below them. ambrose serrett approached him at the king's hand waving a gloved hand forward, both of them remaining atop  their horses and clad in their capes. for whilst some had seen the journey as the king closing the chapter that was the dance of dragons, it seemed as though some had viewed it as an opportunity for the king to once again be in the grace of the high septon.

the bastard, son of a whore who wore a rainbow crown made of glass. easily shattered, just as tyland had overseen such violent bloodshed upon the steps of the starry sept that sent shockwaves through the realms. the master of whispers had reported of the updates during their travels, and it became abundantly clear that ambrose serrett would quickly renavigate to serrett lands to round up those who were rumoured to continue worshipping according to the faith of oldtown. mass was supposed to be done in the ancient tongue of the west, the presence of wine and bread was void since it was never the body and blood of hugor of the hill, and the notion of paying for helping souls pass over as they await their judgement. all things tyland lannister had abolished, and yet here came the rumours...from the lands of his queen, most of all.

ambrose serrett was not the ruling lord of silverhill, but the master of coin was needed within the rock for the council meeting come tomorrow - meaning it was up to the second son to gather together those who had tainted their worship with treason. within lands of his own, just when his family had reached their heights - the kin of tyland lannister's queen of choice. "lord serrett!" tyland's voice was booming and deep over the large number of servants who began to unpack from the horses, making it clear he intended to stop the man.

he remained on his horse and tyland came off it, for ambrose serrett had a job to do. a hunt to begin, and a line to bring back.to the lion's den to be charged according to the king's justice. "your sister the queen is holding great amounts of faith in your ability to see this done. as do i." tyland added, the latter half not completely true: he was not wholly aware of the mechanisms of ambrose serrett, having known his older brother more. was there space to drive a wedge between the brothers? "the hand has been made aware of your responsibility - when they are brought to us, he will have prepared the trial." how some words said so little but so much at the same time. it was clear, from the very beginning, that this was to be no fair trial. such was the reality of needing to ensure dissent and resistance would adequately removed. decreasing it would not be enough.

[pietrasgreeklitblog]

Ten Interesting Greek Novels

1. The Song of Achilles: A Novel by Madeline Miller

A tale of gods, kings, immortal fame, and the human heart, The Song of Achilles is a dazzling literary feat that brilliantly reimagines Homer’s enduring masterwork, The Iliad. An action-packed adventure, an epic love story, a marvelously conceived and executed page-turner, Miller’s monumental debut novel has already earned resounding acclaim from some of contemporary fiction’s brightest lights—and fans of Mary Renault, Bernard Cornwell, Steven Pressfield, and Colleen McCullough’s Masters of Rome series will delight in this unforgettable journey back to ancient Greece in the Age of Heroes.

“A captivating retelling of The Iliad and events leading up to it through the point of view of Patroclus: it’s a hard book to put down, and any classicist will be enthralled by her characterisation of the goddess Thetis, which carries the true savagery and chill of antiquity.” — Donna Tartt, The Times (Amazon.com)

2. Circe by Madeline Miller

In the house of Helios, god of the sun and mightiest of the Titans, a daughter is born. But Circe is a strange child--neither powerful like her father nor viciously alluring like her mother. Turning to the world of mortals for companionship, she discovers that she does possess power: the power of witchcraft, which can transform rivals into monsters and menace the gods themselves.

Threatened, Zeus banishes her to a deserted island, where she hones her occult craft, tames wild beasts, and crosses paths with many of the most famous figures in all of mythology, including the Minotaur, Daedalus and his doomed son Icarus, the murderous Medea, and, of course, wily Odysseus.

But there is danger, too, for a woman who stands alone, and Circe unwittingly draws the wrath of both men and gods, ultimately finding herself pitted against one of the most terrifying and vengeful of the Olympians. To protect what she loves most, Circe must summon all her strength and choose, once and for all, whether she belongs with the gods she is born from or with the mortals she has come to love. (Goodreads.com)

3. Zorba the Greek by Nikos Kazanzakis

First published in 1946, Zorba the Greek, is, on one hand, the story of a Greek working man named Zorba, a passionate lover of life, the unnamed narrator who he accompanies to Crete to work in a lignite mine, and the men and women of the town where they settle. On the other hand it is the story of God and man, The Devil and the Saints; the struggle of men to find their souls and purpose in life and it is about love, courage and faith. Zorba has been acclaimed as one of the truly memorable creations of literature—a character created on a huge scale in the tradition of Falstaff and Sancho Panza. His years have not dimmed the gusto and amazement with which he responds to all life offers him, whether he is working in the mine, confronting mad monks in a mountain monastery, embellishing the tales of his life or making love to avoid sin. Zorba’s life is rich with all the joys and sorrows that living brings and his example awakens in the narrator an understanding of the true meaning of humanity. This is one of the greatest life-affirming novels of our time. (Amazon.com) Part of the modern literary canon, Zorba the Greek, has achieved widespread international acclaim and recognition. This new edition translated, directly from Kazantzakis’s Greek original, is a more faithful rendition of his original language, ideas, and story, and presents Zorba as the author meant him to be. (Amazon.com)

4. The House on Paradise Street by Sofia Zinovieff

In 2008 Antigone Perifanis returns to her old family home in Athens after 60 years in exile. She has come to attend the funeral of her only son, Nikitas, who was born in prison, and whom she has not seen since she left him as a baby.

At the same time, Nikitas’s English widow Maud – disturbed by her husband’s strange behaviour in the days before his death – starts to investigate his complicated past. She soon finds herself reigniting a bitter family feud, and discovers a heartbreaking story of a young mother caught up in the political tides of the Greek Civil War, forced to make a terrible decision that will blight not only her life but that of future generations... (Amazon.com)

5. The Silence of the Girls: A Novel by Pat Barker

Here is the story of the Iliad as we’ve never heard it before: in the words of Briseis, Trojan queen and captive of Achilles. Given only a few words in Homer’s epic and largely erased by history, she is nonetheless a pivotal figure in the Trojan War. In these pages she comes fully to life: wry, watchful, forging connections among her fellow female prisoners even as she is caught between Greece’s two most powerful warriors. Her story pulls back the veil on the thousands of women who lived behind the scenes of the Greek army camp—concubines, nurses, prostitutes, the women who lay out the dead—as gods and mortals spar, and as a legendary war hurtles toward its inevitable conclusion. Brilliantly written, filled with moments of terror and beauty, The Silence of the Girls gives voice to an extraordinary woman—and makes an ancient story new again. (Amazon.com)

6. Ariadne by Jennifer Saint

Ariadne, Princess of Crete, grows up greeting the dawn from her beautiful dancing floor and listening to her nursemaid’s stories of gods and heroes. But beneath her golden palace echo the ever-present hoofbeats of her brother, the Minotaur, a monster who demands blood sacrifice. When Theseus, Prince of Athens, arrives to vanquish the beast, Ariadne sees in his green eyes not a threat but an escape. Defying the gods, betraying her family and country, and risking everything for love, Ariadne helps Theseus kill the Minotaur. But will Ariadne’s decision ensure her happy ending? And what of Phaedra, the beloved younger sister she leaves behind? (Amazon.com) Hypnotic, propulsive, and utterly transporting, Jennifer Saint's Ariadne forges a new epic, one that puts the forgotten women of Greek mythology back at the heart of the story, as they strive for a better world. (Amazon.com)

7. A Thousand Ships: A Novel by Natalie Haynes

This was never the story of one woman, or two. It was the story of them all . . .

In the middle of the night, a woman wakes to find her beloved city engulfed in flames. Ten seemingly endless years of conflict between the Greeks and the Trojans are over. Troy has fallen.

From the Trojan women whose fates now lie in the hands of the Greeks, to the Amazon princess who fought Achilles on their behalf, to Penelope awaiting the return of Odysseus, to the three goddesses whose feud started it all, these are the stories of the women whose lives, loves, and rivalries were forever altered by this long and tragic war. 

A woman’s epic, powerfully imbued with new life, A Thousand Ships puts the women, girls and goddesses at the center of the Western world’s great tale ever told. (Amazon.com)

8. Elektra by Jennifer Saint

Three women, tangled in an ancient curse.

When Clytemnestra marries Agamemnon, she ignores the insidious whispers about his family line, the House of Atreus. But when, on the eve of the Trojan War, Agamemnon betrays Clytemnestra in the most unimaginable way, she must confront the curse that has long ravaged their family.

In Troy, Princess Cassandra has the gift of prophecy, but carries a curse of her own: no one will ever believe what she sees. When she is shown what will happen to her beloved city when Agamemnon and his army arrives, she is powerless to stop the tragedy from unfolding.

Elektra, Clytemnestra and Agamemnon’s youngest daughter, wants only for her beloved father to return home from war. But can she escape her family’s bloody history, or is her destiny bound by violence, too? (Amazon.com)

9. Clytemnestra: A Novel by Costanza Casati

As for queens, they are either hated or forgotten. She already knows which option suits her best…

You were born to a king, but you marry a tyrant. You stand by helplessly as he sacrifices your child to placate the gods. You watch him wage war on a foreign shore, and you comfort yourself with violent thoughts of your own. Because this was not the first offence against you. This was not the life you ever deserved. And this will not be your undoing. Slowly, you plot.

But when your husband returns in triumph, you become a woman with a choice.

Acceptance or vengeance, infamy follows both. So, you bide your time and force the gods' hands in the game of retribution. For you understood something long ago that the others never did.

If power isn't given to you, you have to take it for yourself.

A blazing novel set in the world of Ancient Greece, this is a thrilling tale of power and prophecies, of hatred, love, and of an unforgettable Queen who fiercely dealt out death to those who wronged her. (Amazon.com)

10. The Island by Victoria Hislop

On the brink of a life-changing decision, Alexis Fielding plans a trip to her mother’s childhood home in Plaka, Greece hoping to unravel Sofia’s hidden past. Given a letter to take to Sofia’s old friend, Fotini, Alexis is promised that through Fotini, she will learn more.

Arriving in Plaka, Alexis is astonished to see that it lies a stone’s throw from the tiny, deserted island of Spinalonga—Greece’s former leper colony. Fotini at last reveals the story that Sofia has buried all her life: the tale of her great-grandmother Eleni and her daughters, and a family rent by tragedy, war, and passion. Alexis discovers how intimately her family is connected with the island, and how secrecy holds them all in its powerful grip.

Atmospheric and captivating, The Island transports readers and keeps them gripped to the very last word. (Amazon.com)

[if-you-fan-a-fire]

‘Hardened, Reckless Youths’: Constructing Criminals

The Free Press stated:

On Sunday many score of people visited Emily and Lisgar Streets, viewing Mrs Cooper’s house and locating the spot where the poor old man fell by the wayside, killed with stones thrown by hardened, reckless youths, whose moral sensibilities were dull through lack of home training and discipline, and who little thought of results. All the four parties now under arrest on the charge of complicity in the crime admit to have been drinking some during the evening but none of them were drunk – in their own opinion. It would be far better for them even though they could have had such a poor excuse as being drunk to offer for their lawless and murderous conduct’ (FP, 16 August).

Notions of criminality expounded ... by the press draw upon notions such as the fundamental animality and savagery of those who perpetrate crime, and the concept that criminals can be identified on the basis of their physical characteristics (see, e.g., Chevalier 1973, 409–33). Reportage on the four accused exemplifies how the newspaper used contemporary concepts of criminality as a descriptive frame. The Daily Citizen reported, ‘Christopher Berry lives in that part of the By estate known as Bully’s Acre, (so christened from the number of roughs who for years past have congregated there and committed all kinds of depredations)’ (15 August). Berry admitted to being at the charivari, and to having ‘had a glass on board,’ but claimed that he and Bob McLaren had been bystanders:

When O’Brien and Kelly were beating the old man with stones we went away and called them away also, and told them to let him alone … Kelly came up to us and said “by God, we have killed him,” and immediately O’Brien came up and says, “the old man was as dead as a nail,” at the same time laughing’ (ibid.).

Conversely, Kelly laid the blame on McLaren:

McLaren, who had stones in his possession, immediately began to treat the old man with them. We heard him moan and saw him fall down, and we knew he was dead. McLaren may tell what he likes, but that is God’s truth’ (ibid.).

When O’Brien was arrested, he was reported as saying, ‘“You may lecture me if you like, but it is not a neck-snapping affair”’ (ibid.). The Daily Citizen noted, ‘He is a hardened young character, and has only been out of jail a few days’ (ibid.). The arresting constable, Edward John O’Neill, testified that O’Brien had told him, ‘“McLaren and Berry are the lads that done it and now they want to put it on us.”’ Ruggles Bonell testified that he had seen Berry and McLaren at the charivari. He didn’t know the names of the other two men also present when he had left, but those at the Police Court were the ones he had seen at the charivari. He had attended both the first charivari, with the ‘little boys and men amongst them,’ and the second.

...

The papers note that Berry’s and Kelly’s mothers are widowed, and O’Brien’s mother is separated. The descriptions, however, point the direction of guilt as the papers see it. McLaren is good looking, comes from a good family, and speaks openly; therefore he cannot be guilty of murder. Berry, although ‘the authorities say he is a bad one,’ weeps, has never before been under arrest, and is willing to talk; therefore, although possibly implicated in the events, he is unlikely to be one of the murderers. Both Kelly and O’Brien, on the other hand, are constructed in the mode of guilt (both are Catholic, Berry is Church of England). Kelly is ‘passionate and revengeful’ and rough. O’Brien, however, again only on appearance, is constructed as the most guilty. Though from ‘honest people,’ he is cool, bloodthirsty, and goes out of his way to blame others (a kind of reverse evidence that he is himself guilty).

Character, appearance, family background, and employment were just some of the aspects used in the newspapers to direct their readers toward presumptions of guilt or innocence of the four accused. Their influence and success in this process is suggested by the fact that lawyers for the four men alluded to the press accounts in their addresses to the jury on behalf of their clients. Perhaps because it underlined their own influence, these interventions, too, were reported in the papers.

- Pauline Greenhill, Make the Night Hideous: Four English-Canadian Charivaris, 1881–1940. Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 2010. p. 59-60, 64-65.

[traveltoobulgaria]

The Brutal Aftermath Pillage and Massacre

Chaos and Carnage Unleashed

As night fell and the following morning arrived, troops and Bashi-Bazouks descended upon the town, initiating a rampage of pillage, violence, and slaughter reminiscent of the infamous events at Batak. No one, regardless of age or gender, was spared from the brutality unleashed upon the town. Homes were looted and set ablaze, with approximately one-fourth of the houses reduced to ashes. The streets became a battleground where people met their demise, whether on their own doorsteps or before their hearthstones. The cries of the elderly begging for mercy mingled with the screams of terrified children and infants, all falling victim to the merciless swing of the sabre. It is estimated that around 3,000 individuals lost their lives in this onslaught, including approximately 400 town residents and the remainder from neighboring villages seeking refuge Bulgaria Tours.

Attempts to Conceal the Atrocities

Unlike the scenes of horror witnessed in Batak, Hafiz Pacha acted swiftly to bury the bodies within three days, seeking to obscure the evidence of his heinous deeds. This calculated move aimed to erase traces of the massacre and evade accountability.

Responsibility of the Authorities

Despite attempts to attribute the atrocities solely to the Bashi-Bazouks, evidence suggests complicity of the authorities in the massacres. Whether perpetrated by regular troops or irregular forces, the cruelty displayed was equally appalling. Mr. Schuyler’s report will affirm that both regular and irregular troops were equally culpable, underscoring the guilt shared by Hafiz Pacha and his counterparts. The root of this savagery lies in the shared identity of the perpetrators as Turks, with distinctions between regular and irregular troops being insignificant in the face of their barbarism. These massacres were sanctioned by the authorities, evident in the subsequent rewards bestowed upon those responsible in the form of decorations and promotions.

The aftermath of the pillage and massacre depicted a harrowing scene of devastation and loss, with innocent civilians bearing the brunt of unchecked violence. The attempts to conceal the atrocities and deflect blame underscore the systemic nature of the brutality, implicating the highest echelons of authority. Such atrocities serve as a sobering reminder of the human cost of unchecked power and the urgent need for accountability and justice.

[holidaysinn]

The Brutal Aftermath Pillage and Massacre

Chaos and Carnage Unleashed

As night fell and the following morning arrived, troops and Bashi-Bazouks descended upon the town, initiating a rampage of pillage, violence, and slaughter reminiscent of the infamous events at Batak. No one, regardless of age or gender, was spared from the brutality unleashed upon the town. Homes were looted and set ablaze, with approximately one-fourth of the houses reduced to ashes. The streets became a battleground where people met their demise, whether on their own doorsteps or before their hearthstones. The cries of the elderly begging for mercy mingled with the screams of terrified children and infants, all falling victim to the merciless swing of the sabre. It is estimated that around 3,000 individuals lost their lives in this onslaught, including approximately 400 town residents and the remainder from neighboring villages seeking refuge Bulgaria Tours.

Attempts to Conceal the Atrocities

Unlike the scenes of horror witnessed in Batak, Hafiz Pacha acted swiftly to bury the bodies within three days, seeking to obscure the evidence of his heinous deeds. This calculated move aimed to erase traces of the massacre and evade accountability.

Responsibility of the Authorities

Despite attempts to attribute the atrocities solely to the Bashi-Bazouks, evidence suggests complicity of the authorities in the massacres. Whether perpetrated by regular troops or irregular forces, the cruelty displayed was equally appalling. Mr. Schuyler’s report will affirm that both regular and irregular troops were equally culpable, underscoring the guilt shared by Hafiz Pacha and his counterparts. The root of this savagery lies in the shared identity of the perpetrators as Turks, with distinctions between regular and irregular troops being insignificant in the face of their barbarism. These massacres were sanctioned by the authorities, evident in the subsequent rewards bestowed upon those responsible in the form of decorations and promotions.

The aftermath of the pillage and massacre depicted a harrowing scene of devastation and loss, with innocent civilians bearing the brunt of unchecked violence. The attempts to conceal the atrocities and deflect blame underscore the systemic nature of the brutality, implicating the highest echelons of authority. Such atrocities serve as a sobering reminder of the human cost of unchecked power and the urgent need for accountability and justice.

[travelcamp]

The Brutal Aftermath Pillage and Massacre

Chaos and Carnage Unleashed

As night fell and the following morning arrived, troops and Bashi-Bazouks descended upon the town, initiating a rampage of pillage, violence, and slaughter reminiscent of the infamous events at Batak. No one, regardless of age or gender, was spared from the brutality unleashed upon the town. Homes were looted and set ablaze, with approximately one-fourth of the houses reduced to ashes. The streets became a battleground where people met their demise, whether on their own doorsteps or before their hearthstones. The cries of the elderly begging for mercy mingled with the screams of terrified children and infants, all falling victim to the merciless swing of the sabre. It is estimated that around 3,000 individuals lost their lives in this onslaught, including approximately 400 town residents and the remainder from neighboring villages seeking refuge Bulgaria Tours.

Attempts to Conceal the Atrocities

Unlike the scenes of horror witnessed in Batak, Hafiz Pacha acted swiftly to bury the bodies within three days, seeking to obscure the evidence of his heinous deeds. This calculated move aimed to erase traces of the massacre and evade accountability.

Responsibility of the Authorities

Despite attempts to attribute the atrocities solely to the Bashi-Bazouks, evidence suggests complicity of the authorities in the massacres. Whether perpetrated by regular troops or irregular forces, the cruelty displayed was equally appalling. Mr. Schuyler’s report will affirm that both regular and irregular troops were equally culpable, underscoring the guilt shared by Hafiz Pacha and his counterparts. The root of this savagery lies in the shared identity of the perpetrators as Turks, with distinctions between regular and irregular troops being insignificant in the face of their barbarism. These massacres were sanctioned by the authorities, evident in the subsequent rewards bestowed upon those responsible in the form of decorations and promotions.

The aftermath of the pillage and massacre depicted a harrowing scene of devastation and loss, with innocent civilians bearing the brunt of unchecked violence. The attempts to conceal the atrocities and deflect blame underscore the systemic nature of the brutality, implicating the highest echelons of authority. Such atrocities serve as a sobering reminder of the human cost of unchecked power and the urgent need for accountability and justice.

[xholidays]

The Brutal Aftermath Pillage and Massacre

Chaos and Carnage Unleashed

As night fell and the following morning arrived, troops and Bashi-Bazouks descended upon the town, initiating a rampage of pillage, violence, and slaughter reminiscent of the infamous events at Batak. No one, regardless of age or gender, was spared from the brutality unleashed upon the town. Homes were looted and set ablaze, with approximately one-fourth of the houses reduced to ashes. The streets became a battleground where people met their demise, whether on their own doorsteps or before their hearthstones. The cries of the elderly begging for mercy mingled with the screams of terrified children and infants, all falling victim to the merciless swing of the sabre. It is estimated that around 3,000 individuals lost their lives in this onslaught, including approximately 400 town residents and the remainder from neighboring villages seeking refuge Bulgaria Tours.

Attempts to Conceal the Atrocities

Unlike the scenes of horror witnessed in Batak, Hafiz Pacha acted swiftly to bury the bodies within three days, seeking to obscure the evidence of his heinous deeds. This calculated move aimed to erase traces of the massacre and evade accountability.

Responsibility of the Authorities

Despite attempts to attribute the atrocities solely to the Bashi-Bazouks, evidence suggests complicity of the authorities in the massacres. Whether perpetrated by regular troops or irregular forces, the cruelty displayed was equally appalling. Mr. Schuyler’s report will affirm that both regular and irregular troops were equally culpable, underscoring the guilt shared by Hafiz Pacha and his counterparts. The root of this savagery lies in the shared identity of the perpetrators as Turks, with distinctions between regular and irregular troops being insignificant in the face of their barbarism. These massacres were sanctioned by the authorities, evident in the subsequent rewards bestowed upon those responsible in the form of decorations and promotions.

The aftermath of the pillage and massacre depicted a harrowing scene of devastation and loss, with innocent civilians bearing the brunt of unchecked violence. The attempts to conceal the atrocities and deflect blame underscore the systemic nature of the brutality, implicating the highest echelons of authority. Such atrocities serve as a sobering reminder of the human cost of unchecked power and the urgent need for accountability and justice.

[bookforgroup]

The Brutal Aftermath Pillage and Massacre

Chaos and Carnage Unleashed

As night fell and the following morning arrived, troops and Bashi-Bazouks descended upon the town, initiating a rampage of pillage, violence, and slaughter reminiscent of the infamous events at Batak. No one, regardless of age or gender, was spared from the brutality unleashed upon the town. Homes were looted and set ablaze, with approximately one-fourth of the houses reduced to ashes. The streets became a battleground where people met their demise, whether on their own doorsteps or before their hearthstones. The cries of the elderly begging for mercy mingled with the screams of terrified children and infants, all falling victim to the merciless swing of the sabre. It is estimated that around 3,000 individuals lost their lives in this onslaught, including approximately 400 town residents and the remainder from neighboring villages seeking refuge Bulgaria Tours.

Attempts to Conceal the Atrocities

Unlike the scenes of horror witnessed in Batak, Hafiz Pacha acted swiftly to bury the bodies within three days, seeking to obscure the evidence of his heinous deeds. This calculated move aimed to erase traces of the massacre and evade accountability.

Responsibility of the Authorities

Despite attempts to attribute the atrocities solely to the Bashi-Bazouks, evidence suggests complicity of the authorities in the massacres. Whether perpetrated by regular troops or irregular forces, the cruelty displayed was equally appalling. Mr. Schuyler’s report will affirm that both regular and irregular troops were equally culpable, underscoring the guilt shared by Hafiz Pacha and his counterparts. The root of this savagery lies in the shared identity of the perpetrators as Turks, with distinctions between regular and irregular troops being insignificant in the face of their barbarism. These massacres were sanctioned by the authorities, evident in the subsequent rewards bestowed upon those responsible in the form of decorations and promotions.

The aftermath of the pillage and massacre depicted a harrowing scene of devastation and loss, with innocent civilians bearing the brunt of unchecked violence. The attempts to conceal the atrocities and deflect blame underscore the systemic nature of the brutality, implicating the highest echelons of authority. Such atrocities serve as a sobering reminder of the human cost of unchecked power and the urgent need for accountability and justice.

[traveltobalkan]

The Brutal Aftermath Pillage and Massacre

Chaos and Carnage Unleashed

As night fell and the following morning arrived, troops and Bashi-Bazouks descended upon the town, initiating a rampage of pillage, violence, and slaughter reminiscent of the infamous events at Batak. No one, regardless of age or gender, was spared from the brutality unleashed upon the town. Homes were looted and set ablaze, with approximately one-fourth of the houses reduced to ashes. The streets became a battleground where people met their demise, whether on their own doorsteps or before their hearthstones. The cries of the elderly begging for mercy mingled with the screams of terrified children and infants, all falling victim to the merciless swing of the sabre. It is estimated that around 3,000 individuals lost their lives in this onslaught, including approximately 400 town residents and the remainder from neighboring villages seeking refuge Bulgaria Tours.

Attempts to Conceal the Atrocities

Unlike the scenes of horror witnessed in Batak, Hafiz Pacha acted swiftly to bury the bodies within three days, seeking to obscure the evidence of his heinous deeds. This calculated move aimed to erase traces of the massacre and evade accountability.

Responsibility of the Authorities

Despite attempts to attribute the atrocities solely to the Bashi-Bazouks, evidence suggests complicity of the authorities in the massacres. Whether perpetrated by regular troops or irregular forces, the cruelty displayed was equally appalling. Mr. Schuyler’s report will affirm that both regular and irregular troops were equally culpable, underscoring the guilt shared by Hafiz Pacha and his counterparts. The root of this savagery lies in the shared identity of the perpetrators as Turks, with distinctions between regular and irregular troops being insignificant in the face of their barbarism. These massacres were sanctioned by the authorities, evident in the subsequent rewards bestowed upon those responsible in the form of decorations and promotions.

The aftermath of the pillage and massacre depicted a harrowing scene of devastation and loss, with innocent civilians bearing the brunt of unchecked violence. The attempts to conceal the atrocities and deflect blame underscore the systemic nature of the brutality, implicating the highest echelons of authority. Such atrocities serve as a sobering reminder of the human cost of unchecked power and the urgent need for accountability and justice.

[alltours]

The Brutal Aftermath Pillage and Massacre

Chaos and Carnage Unleashed

As night fell and the following morning arrived, troops and Bashi-Bazouks descended upon the town, initiating a rampage of pillage, violence, and slaughter reminiscent of the infamous events at Batak. No one, regardless of age or gender, was spared from the brutality unleashed upon the town. Homes were looted and set ablaze, with approximately one-fourth of the houses reduced to ashes. The streets became a battleground where people met their demise, whether on their own doorsteps or before their hearthstones. The cries of the elderly begging for mercy mingled with the screams of terrified children and infants, all falling victim to the merciless swing of the sabre. It is estimated that around 3,000 individuals lost their lives in this onslaught, including approximately 400 town residents and the remainder from neighboring villages seeking refuge Bulgaria Tours.

Attempts to Conceal the Atrocities

Unlike the scenes of horror witnessed in Batak, Hafiz Pacha acted swiftly to bury the bodies within three days, seeking to obscure the evidence of his heinous deeds. This calculated move aimed to erase traces of the massacre and evade accountability.

Responsibility of the Authorities

Despite attempts to attribute the atrocities solely to the Bashi-Bazouks, evidence suggests complicity of the authorities in the massacres. Whether perpetrated by regular troops or irregular forces, the cruelty displayed was equally appalling. Mr. Schuyler’s report will affirm that both regular and irregular troops were equally culpable, underscoring the guilt shared by Hafiz Pacha and his counterparts. The root of this savagery lies in the shared identity of the perpetrators as Turks, with distinctions between regular and irregular troops being insignificant in the face of their barbarism. These massacres were sanctioned by the authorities, evident in the subsequent rewards bestowed upon those responsible in the form of decorations and promotions.

The aftermath of the pillage and massacre depicted a harrowing scene of devastation and loss, with innocent civilians bearing the brunt of unchecked violence. The attempts to conceal the atrocities and deflect blame underscore the systemic nature of the brutality, implicating the highest echelons of authority. Such atrocities serve as a sobering reminder of the human cost of unchecked power and the urgent need for accountability and justice.

[huytas]

The Brutal Aftermath Pillage and Massacre

Chaos and Carnage Unleashed

As night fell and the following morning arrived, troops and Bashi-Bazouks descended upon the town, initiating a rampage of pillage, violence, and slaughter reminiscent of the infamous events at Batak. No one, regardless of age or gender, was spared from the brutality unleashed upon the town. Homes were looted and set ablaze, with approximately one-fourth of the houses reduced to ashes. The streets became a battleground where people met their demise, whether on their own doorsteps or before their hearthstones. The cries of the elderly begging for mercy mingled with the screams of terrified children and infants, all falling victim to the merciless swing of the sabre. It is estimated that around 3,000 individuals lost their lives in this onslaught, including approximately 400 town residents and the remainder from neighboring villages seeking refuge Bulgaria Tours.

Attempts to Conceal the Atrocities

Unlike the scenes of horror witnessed in Batak, Hafiz Pacha acted swiftly to bury the bodies within three days, seeking to obscure the evidence of his heinous deeds. This calculated move aimed to erase traces of the massacre and evade accountability.

Responsibility of the Authorities

Despite attempts to attribute the atrocities solely to the Bashi-Bazouks, evidence suggests complicity of the authorities in the massacres. Whether perpetrated by regular troops or irregular forces, the cruelty displayed was equally appalling. Mr. Schuyler’s report will affirm that both regular and irregular troops were equally culpable, underscoring the guilt shared by Hafiz Pacha and his counterparts. The root of this savagery lies in the shared identity of the perpetrators as Turks, with distinctions between regular and irregular troops being insignificant in the face of their barbarism. These massacres were sanctioned by the authorities, evident in the subsequent rewards bestowed upon those responsible in the form of decorations and promotions.

The aftermath of the pillage and massacre depicted a harrowing scene of devastation and loss, with innocent civilians bearing the brunt of unchecked violence. The attempts to conceal the atrocities and deflect blame underscore the systemic nature of the brutality, implicating the highest echelons of authority. Such atrocities serve as a sobering reminder of the human cost of unchecked power and the urgent need for accountability and justice.