#//And promise to make it educational; like the training camp

[harlowhockeystick]

LOVESTRUCK, WENT STRAIGHT TO MY HEAD ⎯ S. CROSBY

y/n just wants the best for her son, she thinks the program rule of no freshmen players on varsity is stupid. she just did what any mother would do...right?

coach!sidney crosby x teacher!single mom!reader

warnings: angst, smut (fingering, handjob, sex on a table), somewhat of an inappropriate relationship, single parent content, light talk of divorce, lowkey based off of "slut!" by taylor swift

word count: 4,244

a/n: look at that....i do still know how to write

The bitterness of the coffee wasn’t doing it’s job. On her third cup and it’s not even ten in the morning, Y/N waits for the next period of students to walk through her door. Taking in one of the few moments of silence she has, she refreshes the page on the sports page on the school website, itching to see her son’s name. 

Carter had tryouts with the hockey team last week, he had been talking about it since the beginning of the month. He was training every day to make varsity; in leagues ever since he was ten years old every single coach and spectator could not brag enough on how much talent he had. Y/N was pressured to send him across the country, even out of the country, to go to the top hockey camps but as a single mother she couldn’t do it. She couldn’t bear to send her baby off to some strangers for a few months, and she couldn't afford to move away from family either. 

But her heart dropped as she refreshed the page, pulled up this season's roster, and saw her son’s name and number on the junior varsity roster instead of varsity. She didn’t understand it, she was told by the coaches herself that he was the best kid on the ice that day. Why didn’t he make varsity? 

Her questions were interrupted by students flooding into the classroom for the start of the next period. She pulled herself out of her thoughts to then teach this class period. Reluctantly though. 

-

The final bell rang and that meant she was done for the day. Saying goodbye to her students Y/N started to gather papers and put them in the “to grade” folder to take home with her before tidying up some areas of the room. She anticipated her son’s arrival. Ever since moving up to high school he always stopped by her room at the end of the day to talk about school and help her carry things to her car. 

“I didn’t make it.” Carter said as a greeting when he walked in the empty room. His face was defeated, his tall slender frame was slumped over in sadness and his eyes welling with tears. Out of all people Y/N knew and saw how hard he worked to make varsity his freshman year. He skated over fifty laps a day, worked on shots in the garage until way past dusk, he also started to lift more weights. 

“Oh baby, c’mere,” Y/N pulled her much taller son in for a hug. There he broke and rested into his mother's arms like a little kid again. He softly cried before pulling away. 

“I don’t get it mom, they told me i’d make it for sure, why would he tell me-” “Don’t worry about it son, I will talk to the coach first thing in the morning. I promise. But for now you have to play the cards you were dealt,” Y/N consoled her son in the way moms know how. Gathering her bags she gave the heaviest one to Carter to help carry out the building. They continued chatting on the way to her car, talking about school and homework he had for the week. Carter was a special kid, he deeply cared about his grade and education. He remembers promising his mom when he was younger that if he ever got to play hockey in college that he would get his degree and not go to the draft early. 

Carter was a momma’s boy through and through. His dad lived an hour away so he spent the weekends there twice a month, but he’s at his mom’s house the rest of the time. Carter is also protective of his mom too. He never told her this, but he’s beat in a couple boys’ faces because they made some lewd comments about her. He’s respectful of her, more than any other man on earth ever has been. Y/N is very proud of how she’s raised her son. 

“Okay son, go to practice. Have a positive attitude, don’t do anything stupid okay? I know you’re frustrated but just go into practice and do you, maybe they got you mixed up with someone else. But-” she saw his facial expressions change and get tense, she knew that he was still angry inside, “hey, don’t get mad at them. Wait until I talk and then you and I will figure something out.”

They walked in opposite directions, Carter to the athletic building and Y/N back to the school for one more item in her classroom. Hustling as best she can so she can get home, she runs into the person she didn’t want to speak to until in the morning. Coach Crosby. 

She felt her body coil and tense up in anger at just the sight. She was supposed to wait until morning, but her tongue got the best of her. 

“Coach! Hey, can I ask you a quick question?” she pulls him to the side, into an empty classroom where the teacher had left for the day. 

“What’s up?” Sidney asked, sitting down on one of the wooden desks. He was wearing black joggers, a tight pullover with a school cap on. Y/N couldn’t help but notice how the material of his clothing clung to his toned body. He had been out of the professional league for at least two years, but he still kept up the physical shape of his body, and it was obvious by the way his pants were stretching at the seams on his thighs. 

“I really don’t want to be that parent, but can you tell me why Carter didn’t make varsity?” Sidney cocks his head to the side. He’s only been on sight three months and he’s already dealing with this. 

“Well, it’s my understanding that freshmen must be on the JV team, no matter how good they are. That rule was put in place before I got here.” He explained while crossing his arms over his chest, his muscles making his pullover look incredibly small on his frame. “He’s a good kid though, he’ll make great improvements this year and I'll look forward to having him on varsity next year.” Sidney said, trying to end the conversation and smooth things over.

“But…you’re the new coach. This is your program now, not someone else’s.” Y/N couldn’t really understand what he was getting at. Did he not see the potential in her son that everyone seemed to say? Did he not see the great player, the great athlete that Carter was? Maybe it was just her being a mother, and so obviously her child is the best compared to other kids. But she swore she didn’t want to be like those parents. She remembers being a kid in youth sports herself and hated parents who thought their kid should be player of the week every week. In her mind, she needed to earn player of the week because of her work ethic, not because her parents were board members. 

“Right but I'm not trying to ruffle any feathers my first year. This is barely my program, I need to establish relationships before I change things here,” Y/N takes a step closer to Sidney, her hands folded in front of her. 

“But you’re Sidney Crosby, who can say no to you?” God she feels horrible for doing this, she feels like…like some junior league mom whose husband has nothing between his ears. But she thinks, if she can just rile him up for a minute, startle him, then he’ll change his mind and put Carter on varsity. That’s her end goal, get her son feeling better. If that means pretending to be a horny college student again, so be it. “I mean really, they had to give you this job cause they trust you. So obviously you can do what you want, like putting my son on your varsity team.”

He sighs, looking down at his shoes. He knows what she’s doing…and he can’t believe it’s sort of working. He hasn’t had a woman flirt with him in heaven knows how long. He doesn’t even know how to respond to such a thing anymore. His life for the past almost twenty years has been nothing but hockey. Sidney’s family has been asking him for a long time when he is going to settle down with someone, but nobody ever scratched that itch quite like hockey did. But now? That he’s got a woman in front of him, a gorgeous one at that, who’s buttering him up? Maybe he’ll give in…just to see what it feels like. 

“Your son is a hell of a player, Y/N. He really could go far,” His words got heavier as she got closer, he could smell her perfume, he could feel her breath, he could see her chest move up and down with every huff she took- “so put him on your team, Coach.” she put her hand on his chest softly and she sighed feeling his stern muscles. “C’mon, what’s it gonna take? Dinner and a show?” 

His eyes, dark and blown, looked into hers and if he remembers what the term eye fucking means then that’s exactly what they were doing. His breaths became short but heavy as she left a heavy hand on his chest. She rubbed her thumb over his cheek, trying her best to work her charm that she used to have. She hopes she’s still got it. 

He thinks, thinks, and thinks. This is a bad decision. 

“My place, six thirty tomorrow evening. Give me your best sales pitch, and we’ll see about the show.” 

Sidney stands up and for a brief second his nose bumps hers, an innocent touch but it makes him take a deep breath in to calm himself down. He exits the empty class room and takes long strides to get to practice, glancing at his watch he’s already a few minutes behind. 

-

She’s eternally grateful that Carter is with his dad this weekend. How could she explain to him that she’s not really going on a date…but she’s going to his coach's house with plans to seduce him..but again it’s not a date. Of course, she’d have to leave out the seducing part. She put on her best dress that she had, it was pretty simple but it hugged her figure nicely. She made sure to spritz some extra perfume on as well. 

The drive to Sidney’s house is silent, it’s her having fake conversations in her head about what to say or what not to say. Debating on if her seduction speech was still on date or if it’s too cheesy now. She suddenly feels like she lives in the lowest tax bracket possible when entering his neighborhood; she's never seen so many fake lawns before. She’s actually never been on this side of town much, except to look at christmas lights when Carter was younger. Now that he’s older he doesn’t care for that stuff anymore. 

“Nice place you’ve got,” she said walking into his entry way. To her surprise Sidney dressed up a little bit, wearing a button up with a nice pair of slacks, the top two buttons undone for visual purposes of course. He takes her coat and her purse, hanging it up by the door. “What’s on the menu?” 

“Well, I figured I'd go simple with just spaghetti and toast, with dessert to follow if that’s okay.” Sidney went into his pantry and pulled out a bottle of red wine. “This okay?” He holds the bottle in the air and she nods her head, sitting at his kitchen bar watching him pour a glass. She takes a glance at the label and she’s taken back. On her teacher salary she definitely can’t afford that brand.

Maybe she’s in over her head here- she didn’t think about any of this stuff. Suddenly she’s this woman who doesn’t have much to her name, sitting in a millionaire’s kitchen drinking wine that costs well over two hundred dollars- but damn if it doesn’t taste good. 

They make small talk before heading into the dining room where he sets dinner onto the table for her, such a gentleman. Continuing the semi dull conversation she thanks him for making a meal for her, joking that she’s never had a man make dinner for her. Only half true, her dad growing up would make dinners for her family. But when she married Carter’s dad, she was the chef in the family. Not that she was complaining, it was just odd for her to be on the reverse side for the first time in a while. 

“I am sorry about that idiotic rule, Y/N. Carter can easily be a varsity player.” Sidney broke the minute silence after finishing off his second glass of wine that night. She huffs, finishing her plate and scooting it away from her on the table. Was she really about to do this?

“Is there anything I can do, sidney? C’mon my boy’s in shambles, he’s thinking that he’s not as good as everyone makes him out to be,” Y/N reaches her hand out to rest on his softly. “Is there anything I can do?” 

Y/N hoped he knew what she was implying and that she didn’t have to say it out loud. 

And he did. 

He understood every word she said and the words that were left unsaid. He knew what she was implying and he knew what she was getting at. But Sidney hated that he was willing to do what she wanted. Y/N was leaning forward on the table, getting close enough to Sidney where he could smell her perfume and her lotion mixed together, he could see a couple small freckles up close as he couldn’t see them from a bit further away. 

There were no words exchanged between them, his eyes kept drifting from her tinted lips to her lustful eyes, back and forth a couple times before resting his hand on her cheek and pressing his lips against hers gently. Immediately he felt a rush of arousal- it’s just a kiss, really? He silently asked himself. He hadn’t gotten this aroused in a while, a long while. 

Both parties leaned into the kiss, wanting and aching for more. They tasted wine on each other and felt each other’s temperature begin to rise. Sidney got out of his chair, lips still connected to hers, and got closer. She stood up, one hand cupping his chin and the other resting on his chest, and she leaned against the dining table. She hadn’t made out with someone in years, she hopes she’s doing it right. 

She gets pushed onto the table just by the force of his body so now she’s sitting on the wooden table, Sidney standing in between her legs with both of his hands cupping her face. He doesn’t care if he seems desperate or if he seems needy, or if this is totally wrong and against almost all of the words he signed in his contract, he can’t seem to get enough of her. Sidney feels her play with the buttons of his shirt and how she begins to pull the shirt up and out of his dress pants. It was easy since he wasn’t wearing a belt. 

He didn’t even know that she completely unbuttoned his shirt until he felt her hands roam all over his naked chest, her hands slowly raking up and down his toned muscles. He takes a breath and scans her body. Her skin is hot to the touch, her eyes are completely blown now and her lips are parted. “How do I get this off you?” he asked, taking a fist of the hem of her dress.

“There's a tie in the back,” she huffed out, not able to take her hands off his body. Plus, she wants him to take it off of her. 

“You tied this yourself?” he asked in shock, surprised at how she tied such a perfect bow on her back with such thin strings. 

“I’ve been tying, zipping, buttoning my dresses myself for the past twelve years now, safe to say I got pretty good at it.” God- has she been alone for the past twelve years? Nobody to love on, kiss on, touch on this wonderful body of hers? Sidney takes in a sharp breath when he pulls the dress off of her and he gives her body a quick scan over. Wearing a strapless bra that she’s almost spilling out of, she has on silk leopard print panties that he can’t help but notice a significant damp spot on. 

“Fuck,” he mumbles, hands roaming over her soft skin. “Don’t make fun of me, it’s been a long time since I've hooked up with someone.” because that’s just what this is, a hookup. Nothing more, nothing less. 

“I haven’t since I got divorced, so it's the same here.” she hooks her leg around his pulling him closer. He pressed his lips against hers again this time most softly. His hand goes down to play with the hem of her panties, “you sure about this?” 

“Very sure, don’t mess with a pissed off mama sidney.” she pulls him down with her as she lays down on the table. He kisses down her body, she arches her back and lets him take her bra off. Tossing it onto the floor Sidney wraps his lips around one of her hardened nipples. She lets out a heavenly sounding moan at the action.

It’s been so long she could cum just from Sidney doing this for a couple minutes longer. One hand slips down over her clothed cunt, rubbing her sensitive and wet area. She arches her body into his, already she’s lost in a great euphoric high that she can’t even mumble words. All that’s coming out is moans and gasps. 

He removes his mouth and Sidney stands up, she watches up on her elbows as he takes his pants off and removes his boxers. She bites her lip at the size - the sight - of his hardened dick in his hand. She reaches out for it herself, “you’ll give me what I want, and I promise you won’t regret it.” he thought for a moment too long, she began to doubt herself but he spoke up, “deal.”

She licks her hand before taking a grip on his cock. Slowly she starts stroking up and down, keeping harsh eye contact with sidney. She gives him a nice squeeze and a twist of her hand which makes him throw his head back in pleasure. He can only do so much with his hand, it’s nice to have someone else for a change. Y/N scoots closer to him on the table, with one of his hands he works his hand over one of her breasts softly massaging it. She leans into his touch and continues to work her hands over his hard cock. 

He moves his hand from her breast down and slips it into her soaked panties. At first his fingers were a little cold but they quickly warmed up after being immersed in her sex. He circles around her clit a couple times, getting familiar with the female body again. He explores for a minute or two, his middle finger teasing her hole. The more he teases her the harder her grip gets on his cock. He pulls his hand out of her panties, they’ve never broken eye contact this whole time and he sucks everything off of his hand. God that was hot. 

Sidney removes her hand from his cock fearing if she kept going he would cum all over her hand and that wasn’t what he wanted to do. He’s panting heavy now, his body forming sweat on his forehead. He pushes her down onto the table with a palm on her chest lining his cock up with her entrance, “wait do I need any-”

She chuckles, “that ship sailed a while ago, just fuck me like you mean it coach.” 

With her permission she slides in and she lets out a long, loud, moan as he does it. He wants to hear that on repeat for the rest of his life, he swears. Sidney puts both hands on her hips, keeping her body steady as he rocks in and out of her, his hips meeting her every time. 

Sidney allows to feel himself in her warm, wet walls. He throws his head back in pleasure and she shuts her eyes tight. Her hands come up to her breasts to add to the pleasure, fingers pinching both of her nipples as she feels his huge cock pump in and out of her small hole. He feels like he’s three feet deep inside of her, he feels lost in how good she feels. His head grows foggy each time he squeezes her. 

Sidney hits the spongy spot in her tight cunt that made her gasp out in pleasure, she sang his name like a chant over and over which made him fuck her harder and harder. She warned him about her orgasm and he did the same, begging her to cum with him. A few more pumps of his cock he spilled his heavy load inside of her and she moaned loudly like a queen when he did. He pulled his cock out of her, watching his load spill out with it. 

Maybe it was the post orgasm haze she was in, maybe it was the lovestruck feeling she had the minute they began making out, but minutes later she’s standing between him and the cold shower wall. His forehead pressed against hers. His fingers knuckle deep in her cunt and a hand wrapped around her throat as hot water rained down on either of them, her cunt squeezing his thick fingers while she couldn’t even say anything but his name. That’s exactly what he wanted. 

The hot shower water kept her eyes shut but she knew that he was gazing at her. He was in awe of her facial expressions, how she bit her lip through a smile with every jerk he made with his hand, when she furrowed her eyebrows when she was on the edge of cumming, and how she cocked her head to the side while he kissed around her neck silently asking for more. 

He took his hand away from her pussy, licking the honey off his fingers. He stayed that close to her though knowing her legs were probably jello and she wasn’t able to stand for at least a minute or two. 

She took a deep breath, “got what you wanted?” she asked in a joking tone, moving her hand up and down his chest in the hot steamy shower. He chuckled, his hands never leaving her body. He palmed her breasts, he seemed to have a thing for those she contemplated, heavy lustful eyes staring into hers. 

“How many more you got in you?” he asked, spreading her legs with his thigh.

“I can give you as much as you want.” Y/N answered, her hands slowly roaming down lower and lower on his chest and stomach. 

“Then no, I didn’t get what I want yet.”

-

She woke up in Sidney’s bed the next morning with messy hair and sore muscles. Looking over on the nightstand the clock read 8:02 AM. She was glad that it was a Saturday and she was able to sleep in. She saw that Sidney was still asleep, he laid on his stomach with his head facing the other way. Looking over his back, studying the freckles, the faded scars. Y/N wants to stay in this moment for as long as she can. 

She hates to admit but she really fell for Sidney. Not because of how skilled he was in bed, or because he could do wicked things with his hands, but she shared a few heartfelt conversations with him before tryouts even began. 

He cared for the kids at school, the kids he taught and the kids he coached. He had a heart for the coming generation. He wanted them to have someone in their corner, and some kids don’t have that at home and he wants to be that. She got lovestruck in the past few months, sure she never planned on sleeping with him, she felt young again with how big of a crush she had. It went straight to her head, it all moved so fast. 

God if her mother were still here she could just hear the word “slut!” come out of her mouth if her mom found out what happened. But she wouldn’t care. She enjoyed it, and she was sure Sidney enjoyed it too. 

But still, she can’t help but think to herself what did I just do?

Sidney turns his head and sees that she’s also awake. Raising up he sees the time, 8:10. He doesn’t even care that he missed his morning workout session an hour late. He puts his arm around her and pulls her closer to him, tucking his head in her neck. With dry lips Sidney placed a tender lingering kiss on her hot skin.

It might be worth it for once, she thinks. 

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[miffy-junot]

Napoleon is socially awkward, Junot and Marmont remedy the situation with whimsy.

Victorine de Chastenay, a fine girl and whom the old regime had trained her manners, as polite as they were skilful, used music in order to evade embarrassment. With her firm, chubby little hand, white, she opened the harpsichord, placed her fingers on the keys; and as Marmont, a loquacious boy, had just explained to the listeners that his companion was of Corsican origin, the young girl, in order to make herself better understood, began to sing in Italian in a very pure voice; then coquettishly, but with modesty, turning to her host, the canoness asked him, smiling, if her pronunciation was correct. The general, always severe, contented himself with replying that she was not, and then he relapsed into his silence; and all would have ended there in this encounter, if Junot, Bonaparte's aide-de-camp, had arrived at that moment.

He was "very noisy in his joy," says Madame de Chastenay, and as he was as turbulent, as gay as Bonaparte was gloomy and reserved, he threw himself through all this, breaking the ice. And it was he and Marmont who arranged impromptu for the next day, at the house of Chatelot, Marmont's parents' house, the feast which was to follow, and, for another day, the concert mixed with a ball and a walk.

At Châtelot, when the time came, everything was very close to going as well as Junot had expected. But throughout the meal, despite the excellence of the dishes, the spiciness of the local wines, further enhanced by the outbursts of his officers, General Bonaparte remained frozen. He does not say a kind word to anyone; only as he had placed in front of him Louis, his younger brother, future king of Holland, barely sixteen years old and whose education he supervised, he was content to pose problems to him, to teach him about algebra and logarithms. Without the good humour of Marmont, the bold, even Gallic verve of Junot, both of whom were absolutely devoted to Bonaparte and subject as slaves to his ascendancy, this meal, from which the guests promised themselves so much pleasure, would have remained insipid, the gloomiest and saddest one has ever seen. For her part, Victorine, in the various environments into which events had thrown her for ten years, had never witnessed anything like this. This coldness, this disdain left her humiliated, offended; so much haughtiness hurt her.

Then, suddenly, the idea came to her to solve this enigma, to know who this man was. Under this sober and dark uniform of a soldier who had fought in the war, was there a heart beating, similar to other hearts? This Bonaparte, with his muteness, his taciturnity, this kind of poorly concealed contempt with which he shrouded everyone who was neither scholar nor warrior in his eyes, who was he? They just got up from the table. With great skill, she approached him, managed to isolate him, then suddenly began to talk to him about Corsica. At first, he didn't break his silence. However, it seemed that this name, Corsica, had had a great effect on his soul. For a brief moment, and as if he had been particularly moved, he remained thoughtful; Madame de Chastenay, who observed him with attention, saw him turn pale and blush in turn; and all the impressions on this singular face, thin and hard, seemed brought to paroxysm. What Madame de Chastenay later remembered was that, in the Marmonts' living room, at the Chatelot, between the two windows overlooking the large garden, there was a marble console table. The general leaned against it, and suddenly, he who had not said a word for two days, spoke. He spoke for four hours, and it was like a torrent of fire!

[...]

In a hammered, brassy, ​​but vibrant voice, the general spoke; and the poorly contained Italian accent gave this voice a strange strength. Without Junot, who was tired of so much grandeur, so much heroism, and who came to play the fool, dance in the middle of the living room, finally give everyone a laugh, the little canoness of Epinal and the future general in chief of the army of Italy would have spent the whole night at the Châtelot philosophizing, and in a sparkling dialogue, pursued a hundred chimeras, stirred up and remade the world! Ultimately the success was very great for Victorine. “Everywhere,” she said, “people marveled at the fact that I had made the general speak.”

But the next day it was even better. With the officers, and a few young girls who had joined the Marmonts and the Chastenays, they danced in circles. Junot, like the day before, played the fool, accompanied by grand gestures, very comical as always, he sang his song: Mon berger ri est-il drole? They even played little games in which those who lost gave pledges. The general, who seemed completely tame, willingly indulged in this madness.

source

[lovehypegirl]

CHILD OF THE DARK KNIGHT HERO

synopsis: Master Diluc and the one who's learned his trade pairing: platonic!diluc x gn!reader, slight angst to lots of fluff notes: reader has a Vision at one point, may be ooc wc: 0.4K warnings.ᐟ slightly dark at the beginning, mentions of kidnapping, child neglect and abandonment, child labor and human trafficking

✦ As a child, your mother had abandoned you and your father was never present

✦ Inevitably she found a way to get rid of you by leaving you in the woods and 'promising' that she'd some back - which she never did

✦ Eventually, the Treasure Hoarders snatched you off the side of the road and brought you to their camp and forced you to work

✦ They made you carry their heavy stuff or work with the miners

✦ Soon, there were some 'dirty' Fatui who were doing more than patrolling the area, they were buying children for labor...and you were one of them

✦ You had managed to get out of the establishment and run far off and out of their clutches

✦ When Diluc was returning from a business venture, he found you hidden behind a large tree

✦ He coaxed you into his carriage to bring you to his home. It took quite a while but he didn't give up on you

✦ It took forever for you to allow the maids to clean you up but Diluc told them to follow your pace and flow

✦ The maids were happy to do so since Diluc had no children and they were excited to care for a cute little kid

✦ You received your own room and your meals were brought to you until your injuries healed

✦ Diluc made sure that you received the best clothes made from the best fabrics, the most nourishing food, and he always gave you a hot water bottle that was wrapped in a thick cable knit yarn to ensure you were warm when you slept

✦ After a while, you were well enough to wander around the manor, Diluc stayed out of his office more to make sure that you would feel safe in his home

✦ Sometimes he would leave for a long period of time but he would always come back with lots and lots of gifts - he loves to spoil you, he feels as if you deserve such treatment

✦ It took about a year for you to warm up to him but it happened and after your child brain had gone through, he understood that all you needed was the reassurance that he would protect you

✦ You began to get closer to him and would join him in his office at times, you ate meals with him, and would follow him around in the vineyards

✦ He would sit at your bedside and read you stories after he tucks you into bed

✦ A few times as a child you've climbed into his bed to hide from nightmares and he always welcomed you

✦ He had no problem playing dress up and would gladly be the princess

✦ As you grew, he hired the best private tutors to teach you and give you the best possible education that any child in Mondstat could receive

✦ After you saw him practicing with his claymore in the training grounds, you pestered him to teach you how to use the same type of weapon

✦ At first he was unsure given your weak state but you followed him around for two months with a promise to be careful

✦ This spiraled into you wanting to become a knight and he was a little hesitant due to the possible influence from Kaeya but he agreed and thus began your training

✦ On a side note, your education began to turn to commerce, economy, and business

✦ Since, y'know, he planned to have you inherit the winery

✦ You had begun to join him on charity events in the other nations, galas/balls, business meetings and the like

✦ He tries to keep you away from Kaeya's antics but that didn't work out when Kaeya tried to give you a sip of wine at the dinner table

✦ On the topic of Kaeya he loves you

✦ He brings you to Mondstat with him with Diluc is busy (much to Diluc's chagrin)

✦ With Diluc's guidance, you graduated at the top of your class as a knight and was inducted straight into the Calvary

✦He was so proud of you when you received your Vision

✦ He slowly begins to pass his work onto you to prepare you to take control of the winery

✦ He gives you a position at Angel's Share as a bartender when you become a teenager

✦ Kaeya always gives you a very generous tip when he comes to the tavern. He's tipping 80% instead of 20%

✦ Weekend evenings are spent in the fields surrounding Dawn Winery having picnics or on the water behind the manor

✦ He teaches you how to mix simple drinks and pats your head when you get it right

✦ Additionally, he lets you braid his hair while he does his work

✦ Just you standing on a chair behind him with his hair full of clips and braids

✦ There are little touches of you all around the manor - the portrait of you and him that hangs above the mantle in the sitting room, the vases of flowers that you picked on your adventures outside, the books that now occupy once empty surfaces, a smaller jacket next to his by the front door, the stuffed toys that are sometimes left in the sitting room on accident, and wooden swords that are left by the stairs or in the hallway

✦ Compared to when he first found you, it's like you're a family now

✦ He really did raise you well

© 𝙇𝙊𝙑𝙀𝙃𝙔𝙋𝙀𝙂𝙄𝙍𝙇 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 | modification and translation of my works on any platforms are strictly prohibited

[dilucsfavorite]

I have gotten inspired from my most recent ask, about my opinions on the DW. This time, I am going to talk about how I believe they are worshiped by the people, and how they affected the present world. Not going by village, just the general most common ways they are worshipped.

--

Irene: Much like how hospitals have the red cross symbolizing medicine and hospitals, Irene's symbol is that. Wherever a doctor and where a hospital is, is the Irene symbol. The matron symbolizes healing due to her many healing abilities, and so that translated over to hospitals and doctors when the idea of medicinal herbs and such were made popularized. Churches are typically where she is worshipped, sermons and days specified when they will join together and pray. The believers also believe that all plant life should be looked after and taken care of, destroyed only if necessary. Many of the bigger villages have green houses filled with medicinal herbs and native flowers that are religiously taken care of. However, there is a dark side. Bandits, kidnappers, just evil doers in general, use the promise of prosperity the name of Irene brings, to bring down and dangers unto others. There were even historically recorded times of people sacrificing others in the name of prosperity and good health.

Enki: Enki was the one who coined the idea of recording history and knowledge within books, less in murels. He was also someone that pushed education buildings and the idea that everyone should get the chance to learn, even if societies at the time did not want that to happen. He was also the cause of the publishing of the first maps to be made of the entire world and the nations. There is one major university using his symbol as the colleges symbol, even if that is not historically accurate. However, most books were destroyed in book burnings that he had created, ones not stored in a major library that is still hidden to this day. He is worshiped by scholars and sailors alike, though there is not one set place people worship him. Though the library could count.

Kul'Zak: Kul'Zaks symbol is used at camps and hotels people own in order to convey the idea that this is where wanderers and travellers can stay. He also had helped Enki publish the maps, though he was the one who had created them. He is not necessarily worshiped, but he has a small mantra that goes around camps that adventures learn, one that is said to bring safety and protection to those going between cities and nations.

Esmund: Esmund is the symbol of the guards order and is used at the guard training facilities around the different nations. He is the symbol of protection and people use his plus Irene's when them or a loved one is sick or injured. Irenes for health and healing, and Esmunds used for the protection of the person. It is also a symbol used alongside head guards, next to the cities symbol. It is only used by the head guards of said village, since they are the main protectors. It is rumored that one can learn the skin hardening ability he has, but it had only been done once, and it was an old man close to death.

Shad: Before he became the destroyer, he was the fighter. Unlike the idea of the protector, he was always on the front lines. He worked with blacksmiths to make different types of weapons that are used today, some were even the basis of better weapons made at later dates. He was worshiped among brash men who only want to become fighters within the wars, but he had the respect of weapon makers. When he became the destroyer, he was worshiped by small cult like villages, ones who praised him to the brashness he had faced as well. They do not believe in the other DWs, and they believe that Shad is the one and only being, the one true DW. Whenever someone was close to death, they were killed to be sacrificed to the Shadow Lord. When young promising fighters come along, they are sacrificed to Shad. Thus, the Shadow Knights began.

Menphia: She is actually the most less known DW, one who is not widely known. Only the oldest witches (and that's few) know of her and worship her. Other than that, there is folklore surrounding her. She would stay in the back lines and rain fire or ice balls from the sky to hit enemies in the lines. Though, that story became less of her and more of a ghost story that surrounds battle fields. That if the battle is gruesome enough, the sky would rain fireballs to torch those who dare make such a gruesome display on nature. Though that type of story is common within Irene believers. She was fine with being the most less known DW, as she did not want fame or worship.

YIPPEE!!!!!! I hope you like and pls expand on your own ideas as well :3

[laundrybiscuits]

(wait for the season to come back to me tag)

“We still on for dinner this Thursday, or are you gonna reschedule again? Because I swear to god, Steve, I will break into your apartment and set up camp if I have to. It’s been years. Centuries.”

“It’s been a month, Henderson.”

“I barely remember who you are anymore. What’s your name again? How do I know you? We’re actually very happy with our current cable provider, thanks.”

God, that kid is such an asshole. Steve loves the shit out of him.

“Listen, I’ll see you on Thursday and explain everything, okay? Actually, uh—I’m kinda calling to give you a heads-up. Got some big news, so you should, like…brace yourself.”

Dustin’s quiet for a long, worrying moment.

“Steve. You have got to know that that’s the least helpful thing you could possibly say. You’re not even gonna give me a hint, man?”

“Wish I could. It’s not a bad thing, okay? Just big. Like…Upside Down big.”

“Okay, for my own peace of mind, I’m going to pretend you’re completely overreacting about the fact that you, like, got a dog or something.”

“I’m not—”

“Peace of mind, Steve! See you Thursday at my place! Don’t cancel or I’ll kill you!”

Steve’s left laughing into the dial tone. Honestly, he’d mostly called so Dustin couldn’t complain afterwards about not getting an advance warning. There’s just no way to hint at the whole Eddie thing without Eddie being present and accounted for; it would be the worst kind of cruel.

Steve can’t imagine what he’d have done to anyone who tried to tell him Eddie was alive without any kind of proof. It wouldn’t have been good.

“So we’re telling Henderson on Thursday?” Eddie jostles Steve’s shoulder. Steve thinks he’s been doing that a lot more lately.

“Seems like,” says Steve.

———

They take the train to Dustin’s place in Wilmette as soon as it gets dark out. Eddie’s bundled up in a nondescript hoodie and one of Steve’s denim jackets, looking like every other Chicagoan braced against the cool evening air.

They haven’t been going out all that much. Robin keeps asking if Eddie wants to do any tourist stuff, maybe the museums or something, but he always shrugs off the offers. Steve would’ve maybe expected him to want to get out and explore, now that he’s not cooped up anymore, but Eddie mostly seems to want to sleep, read, and watch TV.

Robin’s been on a campaign to educate Eddie about the ten years of pop culture he missed. “It’s essential for rehabilitation,” she says. Steve is pretty sure it’s just an excuse to make them rewatch all of Robin’s favorite movies, because some of the stuff she brings home was definitely already out in 1986.

Eddie draws the line at letting Robin show him music, though: “Nope, nuh-uh, no freaking way. I wouldn’t have listened to that shimmery synth shit if I’d been alive and free every single day of the last decade, and I’m not gonna listen to it now.”

Steve does have a few metal cassettes, but he feels weird about bringing them out. It feels like he’s crossing a line, somehow—admitting to something. So instead, they’d all traipsed over to the Tower Records a few blocks over, and let Eddie roam around sampling things.

To Steve’s surprise, Eddie hadn’t actually picked up that many metal albums. He'd grabbed the new Accept and some Alice in Chains, sure, but he also picked up Nirvana and Soundgarden. He had gotten into a conversation with a very helpful clerk that ended with the clerk scribbling a number on a business card and handing it over with a grin and a promise to make Eddie try some local act called Wilco next time.

Obviously Steve’s happy that Eddie’s making friends and charming people. He’s legitimately fucking thrilled that other people are finally seeing how great Eddie is, because Eddie deserves that. Eddie deserves the world, and if he wants to date some random clerk, he should get to.

It’s just that if Eddie Munson comes back from the dead to start dating some random clerk, Steve is going to have to go live at the bottom of Lake Michigan. That’s all.

[crossdressingdeath]

A thing I find really interesting: in the Riordanverse so far we've seen two sixteen-year-old children of the Big Three have to face the question of how to deal with the issue of the minor gods rebelling due to feeling abandoned, disrespected, neglected and otherwise unwelcome. First Percy at the end of PJO when he makes the gods swear to give the minor gods a place at camp, then Jason in BoO when he and Percy fight Kym and Polybotes. And the different ways they respond to that says a lot about I think both them and the way they've been trained.

Percy's solution is... actually surprisingly naive, if you think about it. I mean, first off he basically just assumes that an oath on the Styx will hold the gods to their word. He of all people should know that that's not true; he's the result of a broken oath on the Styx, after all. And we know from Piper and Leo—who are both past the age of thirteen and not Roman demigods, but still haven't been claimed or brought to camp even though according to the oath they should have been—that... yeah, the gods broke that oath basically immediately. Surprise surprise, the gods suck. And no one likes being forced to make a promise against their will, even when it's a promise that is basically "do the bare minimum as a parent and don't be dicks to people who've proved they'll turn on you if you do that". But aside from that, Percy's reasoning seems to have basically been "make the gods give the minor gods a place at camp = profit", which... yeah, that's the sort of reasoning I'd expect from a teenager whose leadership experience mostly boils down to sometimes making solo decisions during quests. I've mentioned before that Percy doesn't tend to think in terms of long-term planning and specializes in getting what he wants in the immediate short term, and it's the same here: he's focusing on an immediate problem (all the unclaimed kids at camp, some of whom are the kids of minor gods), and forgetting about or just not noticing the larger issue (the minor gods switch sides not because of their children not getting recognized but because they feel neglected because no one worships them anymore and the major gods don't care).

To be clear, those unclaimed kids are a problem and dealing with them is a good and very decent move. Percy turning down personal gain in favour of doing his best to ensure improvements for all those kids in the Hermes cabin growing angrier and more resentful with every day they go unclaimed is a very good thing, we love to see it. But it's treating a symptom, not the underlying cause of the issues that caused so many minor gods to turn on Olympus, and so would only ever have been a stopgap even without Gaea rising. And Percy didn't have any further plans to deal with the problems outside of this one aspect; he actually seems genuinely surprised to learn that the deal he made didn't solve the problem and in fact didn't even ensure that all the minor gods were recognized. Percy's solution also relies on the gods; as we see, there's no plan in place for if the gods fuck up or fail to keep their promise! The gods failed to do anything for Kym, and there was nothing in place to even check on that because the plan was just "force the gods to promise to do the thing" (and how do you hold gods who can smite you if you annoy them accountable for their fuckups, anyway?). The whole thing is reliant on the gods not breaking their oath, when again Percy especially should know they aren't great at that.

Jason, meanwhile, has a much more solid understanding of the overarching issue causing the minor gods to keep turning on Olympus and has a plan to combat it. Why do the minor gods keep turning on Olympus? They feel disrespected. Why do they feel disrespected? They aren't being worshipped. What's the best way to ensure they get worshipped? Build shrines and educate demigods about them. What's the best way to do that? Well... just go around both camps and see it done yourself. There's no reliance on the gods, because the gods aren't involved! Jason intends to handle this personally, and we see in ToA that he puts a lot of effort into it. And it makes sense that Jason is focusing on an actionable plan that he can keep an eye on personally, because he has years of leadership experience as a praetor of Camp Jupiter. He must be more than used to having to handle situations where two groups who should be on the same side are in conflict for one reason or another, so he knows how to figure out a solution and how to keep an eye on the implementation of that solution in a way Percy wouldn't. It also makes sense that he has more of an understanding that the issue of the minor gods not getting any respect isn't going to be solved as easily as just making the major gods promise to play nice; first off he again is used to leadership and mediation and nothing is ever that easy, and second he came from the Fifth Cohort, which is still mocked even though the much-vaunted son of Jupiter rose from their ranks.

And I think a lot of the difference in how these two approach this particular problem comes from how the two camps treat young demigods? While in both camps the kids end up doing most of the work, in Camp Half-Blood Mr. D and Chiron are in charge. They're the ones who call for quests and decide activities, people have to run decisions by them. And quests tend to be more team projects; one person is the leader, but the quests we see usually feature the quest-goers working together to make decisions and plan their next move rather than having one person in charge. Percy's not good at coming up with a solid, long-term game plan because that's never been his responsibility. Not to mention that the Greek gods interfere in things constantly, so poking them and saying "Hey, you owe me, fix this nonsense" is often a valid strategy. Meanwhile at Camp Jupiter they cut out the middleman and put the kids in charge from the start, seeing as they're going to be doing all the work anyway. So Jason knows how to plan for the future, because... well, that's been his job for some time, of course he knows that. He wouldn't have gotten far as a praetor if he didn't. Both camps absolutely traumatize the fuck out of their campers, but hey, at least at Camp Jupiter you might get leadership skills out of it! And also the Roman gods are more hands-off, so it makes sense Jason wouldn't put this whole mess in their hands. Especially since he now also has Percy's example to tell him that won't work at all. Basically Percy holds a position of respect and some level of power at Camp Half-Blood because he's one of their best fighters and not bad as a battlefield commander, but he's not a leader the way Jason is, which is likely part of the reason why he's so quick to give up the praetorship when Jason gets to Camp Jupiter in MoA. Jason is a leader, meanwhile, because he's had years of experience in that role and is used to handling it even if it wouldn't have been his choice. Both of them care about the people around them and want to do right by them, but Percy only does so as a friend; Jason does as a friend too, but also as someone used to being in a position of meaningful authority over the group and so in a position where they have a very real and concrete responsibility to the group in a way that someone who's just a friend doesn't. You can also see this in things like how when Nico says he isn't welcome at camp Percy's response is basically "Yyyyyyyyyyyeah, that sucks, huh" while Jason's response is to try to make him feel welcome. Percy feels bad about it but wouldn't know what to do about the problem even if he tried, while Jason's probably used to helping people who don't fit in find a place where they belong as part of his job and would do his best to do so here even if he didn't care about Nico on a personal level. I don't know, it's just a really interesting difference between them and I wish the books had gone more into the difference between authority born from Being Strong and authority born from being in a position of concrete leadership as decided by the group (although unless I'm misremembering there are a couple points where it's pointed out that Annabeth is really much more Jason's counterpart on the Greek side than Percy is, and I love that, it's very true, Percy is not the one in charge, that is absolutely Annabeth) instead of just Percy and Jason calling each other "bro" all the time and having the occasional Big Three squabble.

[made-some-ki-points]

Character Concepts: Reluctant Multiclasses

A fighter who used to participate in gladiatorial combat with deeply rooted shame in their actions while in the ring. They’ve since taken up a spellcasting class and, though they still use their fighting skills, they’re desperately trying to feel useful outside of violent contexts.

An alchemist artificer with a large body of work they take great pride in. However, when a lab accident badly injures them and leaves them with unsettling new magical abilities (whether it be becoming an order of the mutant blood hunter, being marked by an otherworldly force they did not intend to call, or something else entirely) they actively detest, they grow fame for something they hate rather than something they love. Now they try to hold on to their alchemy as much as they can, hoping it can make as much of a name for itself as the accident that changed them.

A sorcerer forced into a magical academy against their will at a young age by a frightened town and/or family. They picked up a few levels in the school’s given class while there, but they see no reason to be ashamed of their own magic, so they prefer not to use what they were taught.

A rogue who, as a long time member of a thieves guild, once took the group’s oath to protect one another and remain a secret from the law. During a heist gone wrong, the rogue made good on that promise, protecting their group almost at the expense of their own life. While they were recovering, though, they began dreaming of a divine figure, who spoke to them approvingly and taught them new abilities in accordance to the guild’s oath. A problem arises when another member reveals no god has ever interpreted their oath as one fit for a paladin before, leading to questions and envy that drive the rogue into a life of adventure.

A bard who, after a show, was approached by a beautiful stranger at the tavern they played at. After a brief romantic tryst, the bard left, unknowingly having made a pact with the stranger (an entity of greater power in disguise) who gave them powers they do not yet understand. Touring grew harder and harder as their new warlock abilities came to be more fully, and now they have no choice but to deal with the problem directly.

A soldier who, to cope with the awful treatment at camp and the horrors in battle, learned to channel and fight alongside their rage as a barbarian. Now home, they want to leave their battlefield persona and the rage they knew behind, so they began meditating and studying at a local monastery. Though they are at peace with their new fighting style, their rage is far from gone. In the heat of battle, their old ways are likely to appear again, whether they like it or not.

A student at a prestigious, city based wizarding academy well on their way to joining the top magical minds of their age. However, on their way to a scholarly event in a different city, a storm causes their carriage to spin out, killing the other passengers and leaving them to face a weeks long expedition on foot through the forest to the next city. On their way, they learn new types of magic to help them survive, gaining them unforeseen talent as a druid or ranger that leaves them on the outside of the circles that used to think so highly of them.

After a major injury, a monk turns to magical education to lessen the feeling that their life is now without purpose. It helps ease their pains and discomfort, but their peers remind them after they recover that such education means they’ve strayed from their way, which they cannot help but agree with. Now, they’re off to seek guidance about the magic they learned to see if it can even co-exist with the training they received at their monastery, and if so, whether or not it’s worth it to go back to the life they once loved.

[theramblingsofadork]

Time to ask about Rivet, Charge and Hunter!

Roots edition:

3, 9, 18 for the twins

Art-themed asks:

Pen for Hunter. To me, Hunter seems that kind of parent that would regret doing/not doing something small to his children a lot, even though he doesn't look like a person to do that. Am I right?

Charcoal for Rivet, Charge, Hunter

Pastel for Rivet and Charge

Chalk for Rivet and Charge

Red asks:

🍓 for Hunter

🍄,🎈, 🌹 for Rivet

🧣 for Charge

3. How did your OC feel the first time they left home? Why did they leave?

It was a mixed bag. Both wanted to get out and see the world, but were also nervous as the village was all they knew, and they would be leaving Hunter behind. However, it was time, and they promised to return to visit soon.

9. Did your OC receive any kind of schooling? What did they study? How were they as a student?

Hunter taught them the basics of education, such as how to read and write. He also taught them how to fight and protect the world around them.

Charge didn’t get any speciality training, but has worked tirelessly to better control his powers. (Like with the field of flowers. Trying to tune his energy output so he can mass bloom a patch of flowers rather than accidentally fry them with too much power.)

Rivet, while she learned through trial and error, never had any formal training, though she did find several mentors who helped her better understand and hone her understanding of mechanics. She did struggle at intervals though to stay focused though due to the nitty gritty details being so boring.

18. If your OC were to return to their childhood home now, what would that look like? How would they feel?

It would be a nostalgic yet painful feeling. A time when things were easier, and the world was simple and small.

They’d laugh and comment about how their beds were so tiny, and say hi to the little creatures they lived with that still inhabit the village, as well as reminisce about the good and bad times they had there.

Pen: what's one minor moment your character regrets? A small mistake, but something they "can't erase"?

I suppose so! Hunter certainly tries his best, but wasn’t the best equipped to raise two children by himself.

A small regret… Hmm… Maybe getting mad at the twins for taking something like his mug and yelling at them, only to find out they were just trying to decorate it to surprise him as a thanks for being their father. That would make him feel guilty for sure.

Charcoal: share any unique physical features about this character that are not scars or tattoos.

Not super unique, but Rivet and Charge are very fluffy, and Hunter is completely blind so his eyes are gray.

Pastels: Give me three colors that best represent your OC. Now give me three colors that your OC likes best. Is there an overlap?

Yes. The twins defining colors are some of their favorites or relate to the things they like. Only unique one would be a rainbow prism for Rivet. While she doesn’t wear a ton of colors, she does incorporate them into her creations.

Chalk: what was one activity this character enjoyed with their sibling(s) as a kid? If they don't have siblings, what they did with their neighborhood friends

They loved to play hide and seek with the creatures that lived in their village. They got good at hiding, but once Charge was ‘it’, everyone kinda gave up because he could sense their auras regardless of where they were hiding. XD

🍓 (strawberry) - Does your oc believe in anything? Are they superstitious? Religious? Atheistic? Has anything in their past made them this way?

Hunter is a strong believer of and has a close connection with Gaia. It saved him long ago by sending Flickys and Chao to aid him when he was on the brink of death. Ever since then, he’s quietly lived in nature as it’s guardian, working to preserve the great forest as thanks.

🍄 (mushroom) - Does your character like being in nature or do they prefer the indoors? Do they have any outdoor hobbies like camping or fishing? If they prefer the indoors, why?

Rivet enjoys a healthy dose of both. She likes going on fast paced adventures with her hoverboard out in nature, but also likes working on inventions inside where no bugs can bother her.

Her upbringing is mostly responsible for this, seeing as she grew up surrounded by trees and mountains. But her love of mechanics gave her an appreciation for indoor work, as the summer outdoors does not have air conditioning. =w=

🎈 (balloon) - What does your character do at parties? Are they a wallflower or a party animal? Do they go with friends or alone?

While it doesn’t happen a lot, Rivet does enjoy the occasional party. She’ll usually go out with the girls or to a fancy shindig with Starline, chatting up the guests, and occasionally getting drunk if she’s in a particularly good mood.

🌹 (rose) - What does your oc find attractive in other people? Are these traits found in their friends and/or romantic partners? Are they found in themselves?

Rivet admires intelligence and maturity, as well as people who can be straightforward, and match/put up with her sass. She also appreciates people who have a driving goal, as that’s something she struggles with, and those may be quieter, but aren’t complete pushovers. Like her one friend who isn’t afraid to be politely blunt despite the fact he’s shorter than her.

It absolutely runs through her friend group and her love interests, and a few of the traits she herself owns.

🧣(scarf) - What comforts your oc? Is it an item? An action? A person? Whatever it is, how and why does it comfort them?

Ironically enough, Charge’s scarf is a big part of his comfort. Although he doesn’t like to admit it, he’ll often sink into it and hide his nose when he’s feeling bashful or embarrassed.

He’ll also go sit out in nature, particularly by a stream or a lake, and reconnect with the planet, which also helps comfort him.

…And food. Nothing makes him smile faster than food.

[suugrbunz]

Where Eagles Fly — Prologue

Taglist — @vintagelavenderskies

“Make our ancestors proud, my dear son.” whispered Celia, embracing Sam tightly.

Sam's gaze wandered towards the rest of his family. Rita stood beside Celia, unable to stand still; nervously, she bounced on her toes. Next to Rita, Lucy stood with her eyes fixed on the train in front of the platform. Philip stood by their father, his worried eyes not aligning with the stoic expression he tried to maintain.

“I will, Shimá.” Sam promised, momentarily turning his attention back to his mother.

“You'll have to keep us posted on your training,” interjected Rita, her usual bubbly demeanor replaced by anxiety. Deep within, she questioned if this might be their final farewell.

“I'll write until you can no longer read,” Sam joked, hoping to coax a smile from her one last time. Rita nodded but couldn't muster a smile.

“It'll be okay, Rita,” Sam took a deep breath, trying to find the right words. “Remember when I used to shield you from your fears during the dust storms? I'm protecting you from different forces now, and I'll always protect you... Always.”

“I love you.”

“Love you more.” Sam replied before turning his attention to Lucy. The girl stood in an awkward and stiff manner, unsure of what to say. It hadn't occurred to him until now how mature she had become. Fresh into high school, makeup and boys had captured her recent interests. A subtle rouge tinted the girl's cheeks, and her lips were lightly colored with red lipstick. A bittersweet smile played on Sam's lips as he wondered when she had grown up. The older boy began to offer advice:

“Lucy, don't get too caught up with boys. They can wait; your education is more important.”

“I won't!” Lucy huffed, rolling her eyes as Sam subtly distanced himself from her.

Sam fixed his gaze on Philip, studying his younger brother's features. Much like Lucy, he had grown up without Sam's realization. Philip's lips were full, his cheekbones high and notably prominent, and his shoulders had broadened. Perhaps, Sam was only just beginning to grasp the reality of how much time had passed for each of his siblings; Lucy was fourteen, Rita fifteen, and Philip was on the brink of seventeen.

“You're going to help out at our grandparents’ farm while I'm gone, right?”

“Yeah, and I'll take care of your mare, don't worry.”

“Thank you, Philip.”

“It's the least I can do.”

Unexpectedly, Philip's hand rose from his side, extending towards Sam. A smile tugged at the corners of Sam's lips as he firmly shook his brother's hand.

“Make us proud, brother.”

“Will do.”

Sam's attention moved to his father, silence blanketing them, both hesitant to speak. The future was unwritten, fate yet to be sealed; This goodbye didn't mean he'd never see his son again. George swallowed the lump in his throat, hoping that the words would piece themselves together.

“Keep yourself safe; the diné spirit shields you.”

“I will.”

George, grappling with unspoken emotions, nodded at his son. While words remain unsaid, Sam understood his father's silent message: I love you. On a whim, Sam wrapped his arms around his father. Something he hadn't done since early boyhood.

“I love you.” whispered Sam.

“I love you too,” breathed George.

Sam pulled away from his father, moving onto the final person, Lana.

“Oh, my lovely Lana.”

Sam pulled Lana into his chest, letting go of a breath he didn't realize he was holding onto. His eyelids fell shut as Lana wrapped her arms around him.

“I love you so terribly much.” said Sam

“I love you too.” breathed Lana.

Unwilling to let go of his lover, Sam felt his heart begin to shatter with each second that passed. Soon, he'd board a train, alone and uncertain if he'd ever return to his home. Lana's voice fell to a hushed volume as she spoke once again:

“Will you be sneaking the diary into boot camp?”

Sam's eyes fluttered open, surprised by her question. It had been the elephant in the room that only he and Lana knew of. They had planned it together, knowing the trouble it could cause. Nonetheless, Sam was convinced he needed to document the journey ahead of him. He wanted to be a journalist for years; this was something he knew needed to be documented. Without any hesitation, Lana supported his idea, even if it had foreseeable consequences.

“I will.”

“Will you be able to hide it?”

“Who knows, we'll find out.”

“Don't get yourself into too much trouble.”

“Am I known for getting into trouble?”

“Sometimes.”

“Shhh, that wasn't the correct answer.”

Laughter bubbled from Lana's lips, a sound that made Sam grin. He gently squeezed her waist. Suddenly, the train's whistle cut through the air, its high-pitched screech warning the gathered families of its fast-approaching departure time. Sam released Lana, his eyes lingering on her. Only now did he notice the tears streaming down her cheeks. The sensation of his heart dropping overwhelmed Sam; he never wanted to be the causation of Lana's tears.

“We'll see each other again; this isn't our final embrace.”

“We don't know that.”

“We don't, but we can choose to believe it isn't.”

Sam pressed his lips against her forehead before stepping away from everyone. A lump had formed in his throat; reality was finally beginning to set in. Sam drew his bottom lip between his teeth, trying to distract himself from the anxiety that had begun to set in. He was only off to processing and yet he'd grown fearful of his future. It was rather far-fetched to believe his death was so imminent. After letting go of his lip, the boy exhaled and turned away from his family.

“I'll be back one day.”

“You better be.” quipped Celia.

Sam chuckled with a touch of indifference as he stepped onto the train. Swiftly, his gaze studied the cabin's interior — a predominantly oak-toned wooden setting with seats adorned by forest green cushions. Despite their less-than-inviting appearance, a few men had managed to doze off in their seats. Other men had been exchanging conversation with others seated around them. Sam found an empty seat, its faded upholstery worn from countless journeys. His gaze shifted to the window, searching for his family. On the platform, his sisters gathered around their father, embracing him tightly. Philip stood alongside Lana, but a somber silence hung between them. Though Lana's tears had dried, her trembling lip and the embrace of her arms around her waist revealed the lingering emotional turmoil. Her eyes searched to spot him in one of the windows. When she did, she lifted her hand and pointed, momentarily turning towards Philip. An unexpected smile tugged at Philip's lips as his eyes spotted Sam’s familiar face.

Once more, the train's piercing whistle echoed through the air. Beneath Sam's feet, the floor started to tremble, signaling the imminent departure of the train as it gradually pulled ahead. Lana's arms dropped to her side as she started to run beside the train. Without hesitation, Philip joined her. Sam straightened in his chair, observing Lana and his brother jogging beside the train. The boy beamed with delight as he witnessed their run. Each step they took increased in speed until they reached the end of the platform. Their running came to a halt, and the feeling of anticipatory grief washed over them. Sam's gaze fell to his lap, observing his hands as he began to twiddle his thumbs. There was far too much for him to think of:

How am I going to keep my journal hidden? If they find it, what could they possibly do?

“Where are you headed?”

An unfamiliar voice awoke Sam from his thoughts.

“Uh, I think Camp Toccoa, it's somewhere in Georgia.” answered Sam, his eyes meeting the stranger's.

“Enlisted or drafted?”

The man was dressed in civilian clothes, the fabric appearing to be of high quality—better than what Sam had worn. His hair, a dirty blonde, framed a pair of pale blue eyes, and freckles adorned his cheeks. Leaning against the unoccupied seats across from Sam, his appearance made Sam pause; he bore an unsettling resemblance to the boys in high school who had tormented him.

“Enlisted, planning on bein’ a paratrooper.”

“What could possibly compel someone to sign up to jump from a plane?”

“Extra pay.”

“No amount of money could convince me to jump from a plane-” the stranger shook his head before continuing, “you mind if I sit with you?”

“Not at all.”

The blonde settled into the chair he had been leaning on, pulling out a pack of cigarettes from his pocket. He offered one to Sam:

“Want it?”

“I don’t smoke,” replied Sam, knowing how abnormal his refusal must have sounded.

“You Mormon or something?” the stranger interrogated, cigarette between his lips as he flicked on his lighter.

“No,” chuckled Sam.

“Oh, name's Thomas.”

Thomas took a drag of the cig before removing it from his lips, holding it between his index and middle fingers.

“Sam.”

“Where are you from, Sam?” asked Thomas, returning the cigarette to his lips.

“Santa Fe, what about you, Thomas?”

“Santa Fe, as well… Near the country club, have you been there before?”

“I am not white enough for that.” stated Sam, resisting the urge to roll his eyes at Thomas' obliviousness.

“Sorry, uh, what part of Santa Fe are you from?”

“Near the Indian Market.”

“Oh, never been to that market, my dad isn't keen on…” Thomas' voice faltered with shame, his eyes averting from Sam. Since his childhood, Thomas' father has had a habit of expressing prejudiced opinions about the indigenous peoples.

“So why are you talking to me?” questioned Sam, raising an eyebrow.

“‘Cause I believe my father is full of it… Your skin color doesn't define you. My mother, bless her, used to tell me how people aren’t defined by their appearance but rather their character. I'm not sure why she married my father…”

“Rich people marry for status; that probably has some correlation,” reasoned Sam.

“Probably, it's a bit dumb, I'm sure you think the same,” A smile spread across Thomas’ face as he remembered the scene that unfolded minutes before. The lad sat up in his chair and asked, “Hey, did you see those two running beside the train.”

“That was my love, Lana, and my brother, Philip.”

Sam spoke with a smile as he thought of Lana’s behavior; it was rather out of character for her to willingly capture the attention of so many strangers. The whole train must've watched her run alongside them.

“Man, you must be thoroughly loved,” laughter escaped Thomas as he tried to speak, “my gal would never run beside a train for me.”

Confusion contorted Sam's face as he looked towards Thomas. Hesitancy laced itself into Sam's voice as he spoke:

“Did your love not show up to the train station?”

“She’s busy with college classes.”

“Lana came from San Francisco to say goodbye to me.”

“I am going to be cheated on, aren't I?” sighed Thomas.

“Just pray that you don't get a Dear John letter,” joked Sam, though the blonde couldn't find the humor within Sam's words.

A hush settled between them, allowing Sam to reimmerse himself in his thoughts.

I should've brought a book for the trip. He thought. This'll be such a long and boring train ride.

Gazing out of the window, he watched as the rumbling train passed through the sun-soaked city. To say he'd miss the city was an understatement. There was more than just the city to miss; he'd miss the summers spent in Arizona around Monument Valley. The trail rides with Philip and their friends would be a distant memory. It was on one such ride that Philip had asked him if the war would make it to America. Back then, he didn't have an answer—no one did. Their answer arrived shortly after that summer on the seventh day of December. Sam let out a sigh as he shifted in his seat, hoping to find a comfortable position that he knew he'd never find. Nevertheless, his eyes fell shut as memories continued to flood his senses. Galloping bareback down a trail he'd traveled a hundred times before, the Arizona sun beating down upon his tanned skin. Sometimes, he'd let go of the reins, allowing his mare to extend her strides even further than before. That's when it felt like he was the eagle, soaring above the desert terrain. One day, he'd return to that trail and bring Lana.

[lotusjaune]

Hi !

So.

I've had this project on my computer for a while. I had kind of put it aside but the release of DiM pushed me to finish this introduction to the project. To be honest I had even started writing a story but I overestimated my abilities with it.

This story was to tell a sequel to the game. Where the gang, who have mostly lost sight of each other, come together to face the paranormal once again and reconnect with the bonds that have been lost over time. In short: drama, action, suspense and even a little romance.

Here is an introduction to the characters just before the story begins.

THE ENDING :

- The Hackett family is completely decimated.

- All the others survived the night

- Sylas is dead and all infected are human again.

- Dylan lost his hand.

- Enough evidence has been accumulated and the educators are cleared.

AFTER THE ENDING (4 years later):

After proving their innocence, Ryan, Emma and Kaitlyn are forcibly recruited by the military's « Paranormal Disposal Force ». They became experienced elite soldiers specializing in missions involving supernatural creatures.

Abi and Nick are also forcefully recruited.

Nick being the only one of the group to have undergone a complete transformation, he was locked up in the cells of the scientific department where he was regularly tested. The goal was to bring out some of his werewolf traits. As a result, he gained superhuman strength as well as heightened senses. After military training, he is sent to the field with his friends.

Abi was assigned to coordinate the "Quarry" team. This team consists of Ryan, Emma, Kaitlyn and Nick. This position was given to her once she was able to prove her devotion and worth to her superiors by participating in the research conducted on Nick. The « perfect employ » role is a facade she created to allow the team to spy on their higher-ups from the inside and find a way out of their predicament. When the team goes out on a mission in the field, they make their reports by radio to Abi who stays at HQ.

Jacob was never found by the police. Remorseful, he had left the scene of the incident alone through the forest. He is now considered missing. He flees to Canada where he travels the country in search of people who have been victims of supernatural events and helps them. He tries to redeem himself for his actions at summer camp. He has cut off all contact with people he knew before the attack and is unaware of what happened to his former friends.

Dylan was found by the police with the others but due to the loss of his hand, he was not recruited by the military corps. They cut Dylan off from all contact with his friends. However, he suspects that things are being hidden from him about his friends. He graduated in quantum physics and created his own prosthesis. He has extensive knowledge in engineering, robotics and physics. He works as a reporter for "Paranormal Investigation", the company that created the post cast that Ryan listened to. By working in the super natural he hopes to find clues to where his friends are. He also became a surrogate brother to Sarah, Ryan's sister.

After her brother's disappearance, Sarah meets Dylan who tells her the truth about what happened at Haquets' Quarry. Shortly after finishing her medical studies, her grandmother and last family died. She is then taken under Dylan's wing and becomes his teammate in his work as reporters. Dylan becomes her new family and best friend. She trained hard to make sure she will not lose her new family like she lost the previous one. She remains hopeful that one day she will be able to find her missing older brother.

Laura and Max were not found by the police at the summer camp. Afraid of once again facing corrupt authority, they both left before the police arrived and claimed never to have set foot in Haquets' Quarry. They stayed in touch with Dylan after learning that Ryan was missing. Laura gave Dylan her number, promising to come to his aid quickly if the need arose.

Here you have it. Hope you enjoied to read that ˆˆ’

If you want to know more about the story flee free to ask. And sorry for any mistake you might found in my writing. English is not my mother tongue.

[khodorkovskaya]

07.06.23

so okay, i feel like a terrible friend. and i know it's not that big of a deal in the grand scheme of things and i have lots of other things i should be worried about. but like...

first of all i can't make it to my bestie's birthday this year bc im going to skating camp and instead of feeling bad about it, i feel... relieved..? bc i really hated her birthday last year, i spent over 500 pounds on it and we were in this house in the middle of nowhere next to durham and i was bored out of my mind. and this year she said that she wants to go either to crete or west of england. and going to crete is hella expensive. and going to england is hella expensive too honestly with all the trains i'll have to take to get there. and i know that im not gonna have fun.... and i feel terrible about it...

i thought about that a lot and now ive finally calmed down. but! my manchester bestie came to visit this week and i feel even worse...

so she got married in april and i was one of the first people she told about it like she called me and everything. and i promised to buy her a wedding present. and i didn't... and to be fair i don't really approve of the wedding cos it was for papers for her bf. and they've been together 5 years and they love each other and they would've got married in a couple of years anyway. but like... she's so youngggg and going thru with so much commitment for a man??? idk

and all of this leaves me feeling like im super judgmental. cos it's not my place to judge, right? and technically speaking my manchester bestie is much further ahead of me in life, right? like she moved out straight out of high school, so now she's like super independent and she's doing a phd now and she plans out her own life. and she looks really good too and she has lots of hobbies. like she seems to be doing really well. and whenever i judge people's decisions, i feel like i project too much. like if i were getting married now at the state that im at, that would be a bad decision. but now for her it's not ?????

and at the same time, i have to admit that i find it frustrating that some people have it so easy. she could choose whichever university in the world to go to after high school! like imagine having that priviledge! just like "yeah, manchester would be a good fit for me" BAM *moves to manchester*. "i really like animals :)" BAM *studies zoology in manchester*

like idk how to describe it. it's not just the money that's the issue, it's the bliss. the bliss of being like "my career? yeah, i like animals, im gonna go study them". like i could never... i love dinosaurs for sure, but i would never be able to do a phd about them bc as fascinating as it sounds, i just... can't take that seriously...? idk if im being elitist but like. especially when her degree and her living in a different country costs so much like.. idk how to explain it guys. do you get what im saying?

like out of high school i felt like the only choice i had was economics or management cos that's a serious subject that could get me a serious job. that's what us mortals do. and when i decided to do maths i was already reaching it. like now my parents are like "you wasted 4 of your years doing something that gave you no skills and was essentially useless. how about you do an accounting course now in order to catch up on everything you've missed out on? time to get back to the real world!" (plus my uni education was free but like imagine if my parents were paying thousands for me to study some obscure degree?)

and now again, it's her bliss that drives me insane. "oh my bf needs a visa? let's get married, i love him anyway" likeeee can you imagine that? like not ever thinking about the consequences?

idk, i feel like im in the wrong. bc some people just do whatever without thinking twice and it works out for them and they're happy. and im overcomplicating things. or maybe my life is just overall more complicated bc we're poor. like i can't just go to another country and marry the first guy who comes my way, you know?

and we were talking about kids and stuff and my bestie was like "yeah, i only want my kids to do the IB bc a-levels are shit and i wouldn't want them to get an obscure degree like the maturité either bc they'll have to explain it once they get to uni". and like... first of all, she's already counting on being able to send her future kids to private school which is like okay. and secondly like... how is the maturité an obscure diploma? judging by whose standards? if you do the IB and you want to go to a swiss uni that's gonna be a hassle. despite the IB being supposedly international, the only schools that really actually accept it with no problem are those elite british schools. so imagine being preprogramed in a way that like you know you're gonna be able to afford elite universities for your kids.

and she says all of that without even thinking twice. like everything is a given to her. and her boyfriend now husband is a heir to this rich hongkongese family, so yeah, they'll probably be able to send their kids to private school and then to an english university. and she'll probably never understand it. she'll continue living her life thinking that everything is a given, never struggle and find that normal. meanwhile i can't even grasp the fact that her dad's managed to support his stay at home wife and his two children and like wow the privilege.

anyway, we all live in such different worlds. and some people will never see some other people's worlds. and that's just how things are. and im drifting apart from my friends because we have different problems and a different view on the world.

[mystery-meat-with-cheese]

I think if I were to pick one episode of any show for the entire (adult) population of the world to watch it would be CSI s6e15: Pirates of the Third Reich.

Of course our favourite feminist Lady Heather is in this episode, but she also so perfectly shows female rage. She's meticulous and logical, keeping the anger inside until she can't take it any more.

Even more important: it shows just how anyone can be taken in by extreme ideology. The killer in this episode was in the US Army, and the son of a Jewish couple. After returning from his time at the army in Berlin, he begins to mimic experiments performed in concentration camps, and killing people who don't have certain features.

On top of this, there's a rhetoric to the killer which isn't all that unlike 'crunchy moms' or antivaxxers - the killer is mimicking experiments and surgeries, and it's not implied he has any medical training. It's possible he learned in the army, and his 'skill' at branding is talked about.

Even in a crime drama, the memorabilia, certain quotes, and the harsh conditions of concentration camps (killer's victims had shaved heads, were starved, and had been branded with numbers), as well as the grossly unethical experiments taking place in the episode are a stark reminder of the recent past - what over 6 million men, women, and children were forced to endure for years. So much longer than the characters in the show had to endure.

It's shocking and confrontational, and just makes me think of how in this day and age there is an entire movement of Holocaust deniers and schools who don't teach this period of history.

There's something about this episode that really makes you connect with the victims and their families, and that's something I think a lot more non-Jewish people like myself need.

Anyways, here's a petition by the World Jewish Congress to make every school in America educate people on the Holocaust. (Check out their website - I promise you there's a lot of things happening to Jewish people that the media isn't reporting on and word needs to get out)

And remember everything we see in this episode happened to real people - and worse.

[palletsinchichester]

Exploring Horse Riding in Birmingham: A Guide for Riders of All Levels

horse riding in Birmingham offers a unique blend of city convenience and rural charm. Despite being known for its urban landscape, Birmingham is surrounded by stunning countryside, providing an ideal escape for those who enjoy horseback riding. The region's equestrian centers offer everything from riding lessons to scenic countryside hacks, making it an appealing activity for locals and visitors alike. The contrast between city life and the tranquility of nature makes horse riding a popular hobby, providing both physical and mental relaxation. Getting Started with Horse Riding Birmingham For beginners, Birmingham offers numerous riding schools that provide structured lessons tailored to new riders. These schools focus on the basics, such as mounting a horse, understanding the different riding postures, and learning to walk and trot safely. Most instructors prioritize safety and ensure that riders build confidence gradually, moving at a pace that suits their comfort level. Beginner lessons are designed to be informative and enjoyable, giving new riders a solid foundation before advancing to more complex riding skills. Best Places to Learn Horse Riding in Birmingham When selecting a riding school, it’s essential to consider factors such as the expertise of the instructors, the temperament of the horses, and the range of lessons available. Birmingham is home to several riding centers that cater to riders of all levels, offering both group and private lessons. These schools often have well-trained horses and experienced instructors who ensure that riders receive personalized attention. Choosing the right school can significantly enhance the learning experience, making it more enjoyable and safe. Horse Riding for Children in Birmingham Children can also benefit from horse riding in Birmingham through dedicated programs aimed at young riders. Many riding schools offer Pony Club memberships, where children not only learn to ride but also gain knowledge about horse care and stable management. These programs are designed to be fun and educational, giving children the opportunity to develop a bond with the horses. Holiday camps and special "Own a Pony" days are also popular among young riders, offering them a hands-on experience in a friendly and supportive environment. Different Riding Disciplines Available in Birmingham Birmingham’s riding schools offer a variety of disciplines for those looking to specialize in specific areas of equestrianism. From dressage, where precision and elegance are key, to show jumping, which emphasizes agility and coordination, there is something for everyone. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, trail riding or hacking is an excellent way to explore the countryside. Whether you are interested in competitive riding or simply enjoying a peaceful ride through nature, Birmingham provides plenty of options for all types of riders. Horse Riding as a Lifelong Hobby Horse riding is a hobby that people of all ages can enjoy. It offers numerous physical and mental health benefits, including improved balance, strength, and relaxation. For more experienced riders, Birmingham’s equestrian centers provide advanced lessons in disciplines like show jumping and dressage, allowing them to continue growing their skills. Riding is also a social activity, offering opportunities to meet like-minded individuals, participate in competitions, and join riding clubs. This makes horse riding not just a pastime but a rewarding, lifelong pursuit. Conclusion Birmingham is an excellent place to explore the joys of horse riding. With options for beginners, children, and advanced riders alike, the city’s equestrian centers offer a welcoming environment for everyone. Whether you’re looking to learn the basics, specialize in a discipline, or simply enjoy a scenic ride through the countryside, horse riding in Birmingham promises an enriching experience.

[adongojs]

Jayesh Saini: Transforming Healthcare for a Healthier Kenya

The healthcare landscape across Africa is evolving, and one key figure leading this  transformation is Jayesh Saini. With an unmatched dedication to affordable and accessible  healthcare solutions, Jayesh Saini has emerged as a thought leader in revolutionizing  healthcare across the continent. As the founder of LifeCare Hospitals and Bliss Healthcare,  his vision is to make quality healthcare services and essential medicines available to all,  regardless of socioeconomic status. In this article, we explore Jayesh Saini's insights on the  future of African healthcare, focusing on the trends and solutions that promise to reshape  the healthcare sector for generations to come.

Community Engagement and Empowerment

 Jayesh Saini firmly believes that healthcare solutions must be community-driven. He has  prioritized community engagement as a means to ensure that healthcare services are  tailored to the specific needs of local populations. Through initiatives like health awareness  campaigns, free medical camps, and educational workshops, LifeCare Hospitals and Bliss  Healthcare have engaged with communities to promote health-seeking behaviors and  educate them on preventive measures.

 Saini’s approach to community engagement goes beyond providing healthcare services—it  involves empowering communities to take control of their own health. He believes that  informed and educated communities are better equipped to make decisions that positively  impact their health and well-being. By actively involving communities in healthcare  initiatives, Jayesh Saini aims to create a culture of health awareness that will contribute to  long-term positive health outcomes.

Public-Private Partnerships for Sustainable Healthcare

 Another trend that Jayesh Saini considers crucial for the future of African healthcare is the  role of public-private partnerships (PPPs). The challenges facing the healthcare sector in  Africa are vast, and no single entity can address them alone. By fostering collaborations  between governments, private healthcare providers, and non-governmental organizations, it  is possible to pool resources and expertise to improve healthcare delivery.

 Jayesh Saini has been a strong proponent of PPPs, believing that such collaborations are  vital for achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Africa. Through LifeCare Hospitals,  he has collaborated with various stakeholders, including government agencies and  international organizations, to expand access to healthcare services. By leveraging the  strengths of different partners, Saini aims to create a healthcare system that is both efficient  and sustainable, capable of meeting the needs of a growing population.

 Affordable Healthcare Solutions for Africa

 As an advocate for affordable healthcare solutions, Jayesh Saini has taken several strategic  steps to ensure that healthcare services are accessible to everyone, regardless of their  financial capabilities. His approach to affordability is multifaceted, involving the expansion of  healthcare infrastructure, the local production of medicines, and partnerships with insurance  providers.

  Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure

 One of the key ways that Jayesh Saini is addressing the issue of healthcare affordability is  by expanding healthcare infrastructure across the region. LifeCare Hospitals currently  operates four hospitals across Kenya, with plans for further expansion across East Africa.  By establishing healthcare facilities in underserved areas, Saini is ensuring that people  have access to quality medical care without the need to travel long distances, which can be  both costly and time-consuming.

  Investing in Healthcare Workforce Training

 A well-trained healthcare workforce is essential for the delivery of quality care. Jayesh Saini  has invested heavily in training healthcare professionals, ensuring that LifeCare Hospitals  are staffed by highly skilled and compassionate individuals. By investing in the training and  development of healthcare workers, Saini is not only improving the quality of care but also  contributing to the overall affordability of healthcare by increasing the availability of skilled  healthcare professionals.

 The Future of African Healthcare: A Vision for Sustainable Change

 Jayesh Saini’s vision for the future of African healthcare is one that is rooted in  sustainability, accessibility, and affordability. He believes that the healthcare sector must  evolve to meet the needs of a growing population, with a particular focus on reducing the  cost of care and expanding access to underserved areas. By leveraging technology,  investing in local pharmaceutical production, and prioritizing preventive care, Saini is laying  the groundwork for a healthcare system that is capable of providing quality care to all  Africans.

 In addition to expanding healthcare infrastructure and making medicines affordable, Jayesh  Saini also envisions a future where healthcare is community-driven. He believes that  empowering communities to take control of their own health is key to achieving long-term  positive health outcomes. Through community engagement initiatives and public-private  partnerships, Saini is working towards a future where healthcare services are accessible to  every individual in Africa, regardless of their location or financial status.

 Jayesh Saini is a thought leader in the healthcare industry, with a vision to transform the  future of African healthcare through affordable solutions. His work with LifeCare Hospitals  and Dinlas Pharma has already made a significant impact, providing quality healthcare  services and essential medicines to millions of people across Africa. By focusing on trends  such as digital healthcare, preventive care, local pharmaceutical production, and community  engagement, Saini is helping to create a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable,  and sustainable.

 The future of African healthcare is promising, and with leaders like Jayesh Saini at the helm,  there is hope for a healthcare system that meets the needs of all citizens. Through his  innovative approach and commitment to making healthcare accessible to all, Saini is paving  the way for a healthier and more prosperous Africa.

[sagarargroup]

F H Medical College and Hospital Agra: A Comprehensive Guide for Aspiring Medical Students

When it comes to choosing a medical college, students often seek an institution that offers both quality education and practical training. F H Medical College and Hospital Agra stands as a promising choice for those who aspire to excel in the field of medicine. With its advanced infrastructure, experienced faculty, and commitment to providing top-tier medical education, F H Medical College and Hospital Agra has become a reputable name in India’s medical education landscape.

In this article, we’ll dive deep into what makes F H Medical College and Hospital Agra an excellent choice for students and why it is a college worth considering.

Overview of F H Medical College and Hospital Agra

Located in the historic city of Agra, F H Medical College and Hospital Agra is a premier institution known for its dedication to creating highly skilled medical professionals. Established with a mission to provide affordable and quality education, this college offers a blend of theoretical and practical knowledge to help students succeed in the ever-evolving field of healthcare.

Affiliated with Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, Agra, and recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC), F H Medical College and Hospital Agra provides undergraduate and postgraduate programs that cater to a wide range of specializations in the medical field.

Why Choose F H Medical College and Hospital Agra?

Here’s why students should consider F H Medical College and Hospital Agra for their medical education:

1. Top-Notch Faculty

The experienced faculty at F H Medical College and Hospital Agra consists of highly qualified professionals who are dedicated to guiding students through their academic journey. The professors bring a mix of academic expertise and practical experience, ensuring that students are well-prepared to face the challenges of the healthcare sector.

2. Modern Infrastructure

F H Medical College and Hospital Agra boasts a well-designed campus with state-of-the-art facilities, including spacious classrooms, fully equipped laboratories, and a comprehensive library. These modern facilities support both the theoretical and practical aspects of medical education. The college also houses a 650-bed hospital that provides students with real-time clinical exposure, a crucial element in becoming a skilled doctor.

3. Extensive Clinical Exposure

A standout feature of F H Medical College and Hospital Agra is the hands-on clinical experience students gain during their course of study. The attached hospital is equipped with multiple departments such as general surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and emergency medicine, giving students the opportunity to observe and participate in a wide variety of medical cases. This clinical exposure ensures that students graduate with the confidence and skill to handle real-life medical situations.

4. Affordable Education

In a country where medical education can be financially demanding, F H Medical College and Hospital Agra offers an affordable fee structure without compromising the quality of education. The college’s commitment to making medical education accessible to students from diverse financial backgrounds sets it apart from many other institutions.

5. Student-Centric Learning Environment

The learning environment at F H Medical College and Hospital Agra is student-friendly, focusing on the overall development of its students. The institution offers a well-rounded education that emphasizes not only academic excellence but also ethical and compassionate medical practice. Students are encouraged to engage in seminars, workshops, and medical camps that enhance their learning experience.

6. Placement and Career Support

While medical colleges don’t follow the traditional placement system like engineering or management institutes, F H Medical College and Hospital Agra ensures that students are well-prepared for internships, residency programs, and future job opportunities. Graduates from the college have secured positions in prestigious hospitals and medical institutions across India and abroad. Many students also pursue higher education, specializing in their fields of interest.

Admission Process at F H Medical College and Hospital Agra

To gain admission to F H Medical College and Hospital Agra, students must clear the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET), which is the gateway for all medical courses in India. Once a candidate clears the NEET exam, they can apply for counseling through the official channels to secure their seat at the college.

Eligibility criteria for admission to the MBBS program include:

Completion of 10+2 education with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology as core subjects.

A valid NEET score, as per the cutoffs announced during the counseling process.

Postgraduate courses also require candidates to have completed their MBBS from a recognized institution and cleared the NEET-PG exam.

Courses Offered at F H Medical College and Hospital Agra

F H Medical College and Hospital Agra offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate medical programs designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of healthcare.

Undergraduate Course:

MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery): A five-and-a-half-year program, including one year of compulsory internship. This course equips students with a strong foundation in medicine, surgery, and preventive healthcare.

Postgraduate Courses:

MD (Doctor of Medicine): A postgraduate course that offers specializations in fields such as General Medicine, Pediatrics, Pathology, and more.

MS (Master of Surgery): Students can specialize in fields such as General Surgery, Orthopedics, and ENT, gaining advanced surgical skills.

Campus Life at F H Medical College and Hospital Agra

Life at F H Medical College and Hospital Agra is a balanced mix of academics and extracurricular activities. The institution offers a vibrant campus environment where students can engage in various cultural and sports events. The college encourages participation in national and international medical conferences and workshops, allowing students to network with professionals and expand their knowledge beyond the classroom.

The hostel facilities provided by the college are well-maintained and offer a safe and comfortable stay for students. With separate accommodations for boys and girls, the hostels come equipped with all necessary amenities, ensuring a homely environment for students.

Facilities at F H Medical College and Hospital Agra

In addition to its academic and clinical training, F H Medical College and Hospital Agra provides several facilities to enhance the student experience:

Library: The library is stocked with an extensive range of medical textbooks, journals, and reference materials, both in print and digital formats. This allows students to stay updated with the latest research and developments in the medical field.

Laboratories: The college has well-equipped laboratories for various disciplines like anatomy, biochemistry, and microbiology, where students can practice and perform experiments under expert supervision.

Hospital: The 650-bed hospital attached to the college provides healthcare services to the local population and serves as a learning ground for students. The hospital has advanced medical equipment and specialized departments, offering students an immersive clinical experience.

Conclusion

For students looking for a medical institution that offers a solid academic foundation, extensive clinical exposure, and modern infrastructure, F H Medical College and Hospital Agra is a great choice. The college’s affordable fee structure, experienced faculty, and commitment to student development make it a top destination for aspiring doctors.

Whether you’re pursuing an undergraduate MBBS program or looking to specialize through postgraduate studies, F H Medical College and Hospital Agra equips students with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in the competitive field of healthcare.

Make F H Medical College and Hospital Agra your destination for a rewarding medical career, and take the first step toward realizing your dream of becoming a healthcare professional.

[robincapehart0]

Beyond Degrees: Exploring Alternative Paths to Career Success

In a world where traditional degrees have long been the gold standard for career success, alternative paths are gaining momentum as viable and effective routes to professional achievement. As the job market evolves and industries shift, the importance of adaptability and practical skills has become increasingly evident. This article explores some of the most promising alternative career paths beyond conventional degrees, highlighting how these routes can lead to successful and fulfilling careers.

Vocational Training and Certifications

Vocational training and certifications offer a practical and specialized approach to career development. Unlike traditional degree programs, which provide a broad educational background, vocational programs focus on specific skills required for particular trades or professions. These programs are often shorter in duration and can be completed at technical schools, community colleges, or through online platforms.

For example, fields like plumbing, electrical work, and automotive repair rely heavily on hands-on skills and practical knowledge rather than academic degrees. Certifications in these areas can lead to high-paying jobs with strong demand. Similarly, certifications in technology fields, such as cybersecurity or cloud computing, can open doors to well-compensated positions in the rapidly growing tech industry.

Online Courses and Bootcamps

The rise of online education and boot camps has revolutionized how people acquire new skills and advance their careers. Online platforms like Coursera, Udacity, and edX offer courses and specializations in various fields, from data science to digital marketing. These courses are often developed in collaboration with industry leaders and can provide relevant, up-to-date knowledge that aligns with current job market needs.

Boot camps, particularly in coding and data analytics, have become popular for their intensive, focused approach to learning. They are designed to equip participants with the practical skills needed for specific careers in a relatively short timeframe. Many boot camps offer job placement assistance and have established partnerships with tech companies, making them a practical choice for those looking to transition into tech careers quickly.

Apprenticeships and Internships

Apprenticeships and internships are time-honored alternatives to traditional education that offer hands-on experience and on-the-job training. Apprenticeships, often found in fields like construction, manufacturing, and skilled trades, provide a structured learning environment where individuals work under the guidance of experienced professionals while earning a wage. This approach allows apprentices to gain practical experience, develop industry-specific skills, and build professional networks.

On the other hand, internships are typically associated with the early stages of one's career and are commonly found in fields such as business, marketing, and finance. While internships may be unpaid or offer modest stipends, they provide valuable industry exposure, mentorship, and opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.

Entrepreneurship and Self-Employment

Entrepreneurship represents a bold alternative to traditional career paths. Starting a business or working as a freelancer allows individuals to create their opportunities and shape their professional trajectories. With the rise of the gig economy, many people find success by offering their skills and services freelance or launching their ventures.

Entrepreneurs often leverage their expertise, creativity, and networking abilities to build successful businesses. While entrepreneurship comes with its own set of challenges, such as financial risk and market competition, it also offers the potential for significant rewards and personal satisfaction. Starting a business can be a highly rewarding career path for those with a clear vision and the determination to see it through.

Skills-Based Hiring

As companies increasingly prioritize skills over formal degrees, skills-based hiring has gained traction. Employers recognize that practical skills demonstrated through portfolios, projects, and real-world experience can be just as valuable—if not more so—than a traditional degree.

Skills-based hiring focuses on assessing candidates' abilities to perform specific tasks or solve problems relevant to the job. This approach allows individuals who may not have formal degrees but possess the necessary skills and experience to showcase their qualifications effectively. As a result, many organizations are adopting this flexible hiring model, creating opportunities for those who have honed their skills through alternative means.

Networking and Professional Development

Networking and professional development play a crucial role in career success, often complementing or surpassing formal education's value. Building a strong professional network can open doors to new opportunities, provide mentorship, and offer insights into industry trends and job prospects.

Attending industry events, participating in professional organizations, and engaging with online communities can help individuals connect with others in their field, gain valuable advice, and stay informed about job openings. Continuous professional development through workshops, seminars, and conferences can enhance skills, expand knowledge, and demonstrate a commitment to personal growth.

As the work landscape continues to evolve, exploring alternative paths to career success can offer a wealth of opportunities for those who are proactive and willing to think outside the box. Whether through vocational training, online courses, apprenticeships, entrepreneurship, or skills-based hiring, there are numerous ways to achieve professional fulfillment and success without following the traditional degree route.

By embracing these alternative approaches, individuals can align their careers with their passions, adapt to changing job market demands, and build meaningful and rewarding professional lives. The key is to remain open-minded, pursue continuous learning, and leverage the diverse resources available to navigate the dynamic world of work.