#Family Mediation Services

[togethermediation]

Family Mediation Services: A Path to Peaceful Resolution

Family mediation services are a structured and voluntary process in which families seek to resolve conflicts with the assistance of a neutral third party, known as a mediator. These services have become increasingly popular as a means to address disputes related to divorce, child custody, and other family-related matters in a more collaborative and less adversarial manner compared to traditional legal proceedings.

The primary goal of family mediation is to facilitate communication between disputing parties, helping them to reach mutually acceptable agreements while minimizing conflict. Mediators, who are often trained professionals with expertise in family law or counseling, guide the process by ensuring that each party has an opportunity to voice their concerns and interests. The mediator does not take sides or make decisions but instead works to create an environment where the parties can discuss their issues openly and constructively.

One of the significant advantages of family mediation services is that they empower families to make their own decisions rather than having outcomes imposed by a court. This sense of ownership over the decisions often leads to more durable and satisfactory agreements, as the parties are more likely to adhere to a resolution they have actively participated in crafting. Additionally, mediation tends to be less time-consuming and costly than litigation, making it an attractive option for families who want to resolve disputes efficiently and without the financial burden of a prolonged legal battle.

Online Family Mediation can cover a wide range of issues, including divorce settlements, child custody and visitation arrangements, division of property, spousal support, and even conflicts between parents and children or other extended family members. The process typically begins with an initial consultation, during which the mediator explains the process, assesses the situation, and determines whether mediation is appropriate for the family’s needs. If both parties agree to proceed, subsequent sessions are scheduled, during which the mediator helps the family work through their issues.

Confidentiality is a key component of family mediation. Unlike court proceedings, which are a matter of public record, mediation sessions are private, and the discussions that take place are generally not admissible in court should the mediation fail and the dispute proceed to litigation. This confidentiality encourages open and honest communication, as the parties can speak freely without fear that their words will be used against them later.

Family mediation is particularly beneficial in cases involving children, as it prioritizes the well-being of the children by fostering a cooperative approach to parenting decisions. This can help to reduce the emotional stress that children often experience when their parents are embroiled in conflict. Mediation also allows for more flexible and creative solutions that can be tailored to the specific needs of the family, which is often not possible in a court setting.

In summary, family mediation services UK offer a constructive and empowering alternative to traditional legal processes, helping families navigate conflicts in a way that promotes communication, collaboration, and long-term harmony.

Source & Reference: https://sites.google.com/view/together-mediation-services/family-mediation-services-a-path-to-peaceful-resolution

[gotocourt]

(via GIPHY)

Brisbane family lawyers - Go To Court Lawyers

[aepmnss]

Online Family Mediation Services | Aepmns.org

Aepmns.org provides online family mediation services to help you and your family resolve conflicts in an emotional and understanding way. Take the first step towards a peaceful resolution today.

[leading-mediator]

How to Choose the Right Mediation Services in London for Your Needs

Determine Your Mediation Needs

Before choosing a mediation service in London, it’s important to determine your specific needs. Consider the type of dispute or conflict you’re facing, the level of complexity involved, and the desired outcome. Some mediators specialize in certain areas, such as family or workplace mediation, while others may have experience in a wide range of disputes. Knowing your needs will help you narrow down your options and find a mediator who is best suited to help you reach a resolution.

Research Potential Mediators

Once you have determined your specific needs, it’s time to research potential mediators in London. Look for mediators who have experience in your type of dispute or conflict, and who have a proven track record of success. You can also ask for referrals from trusted sources, such as friends, family, or colleagues who have used mediation services in the past. Don’t be afraid to ask potential mediators for references or to schedule a consultation to discuss your case and their approach to mediation. This will help you make an informed decision and choose the right mediator for your needs.

Check for Accreditation and Experience

When choosing mediation services in London, it’s important to check for accreditation and experience. Look for mediators who are accredited by recognized organizations, such as the Civil Mediation Council or the Family Mediation Council. This ensures that they have received proper training and adhere to ethical standards. Additionally, consider the mediator’s experience in handling cases similar to yours. A mediator who has successfully resolved similar disputes in the past is more likely to be effective in your case.

Schedule a Consultation and Make Your Decision

Once you have narrowed down your list of potential mediation services in London, it’s time to schedule a consultation. This is an opportunity to meet with the mediator and discuss your case in more detail. During the consultation, you can ask questions about the mediator’s experience, approach, and frees. You can also get a sense of whether you feel comfortable working with the mediator. After the consultation, take some time to reflect on your decision. Consider factors such as the mediator’s experience, accreditation, and fees, as well as your own comfort level with the mediator. Ultimately, choose the mediation service that you feel is the best fit for your needs.

[songmingisthighs]

Missing Out

group : ateez

pairing : dilf!mingi × reader

genre : smut

wc : 4.1 k

tw : mdni, explicit smut; daddy kink, teasing, dirty talk, age gap (mingi's like mayhaps at least a decade older, but both are still within legal limits), thigh riding, spitting, alcohol consumption (not to the point of being drunk, it's just for vibes and... spitting lmao),

a/n : frfr i hope he doesn't see this fic because God i would not be able to defend myself. tbh i planned on posting this on mingi's bitthday but i got shit happening to me. shit without my consent and I'm just trying to ride the stress like gandalf hopped up on cocaine riding smaug. so ykw i decided to post this on my birthday instead lmao. special thanks to @kitten4sannie for listening to me drop some ideas while i was on a road trip, i did some adjustments but it's still sexually frustrated dilf!mingi this fic is finally out so i hope you and everyone enjoy it <3

a/n/n : i take no responsibilities for any calf cramp that may or may not happen but alyssa, i still blame you for the great leg cramp at ass o'clock

a/n/n/n : my birthday sucks because it felt more like public service than anything but i got ticket to go to singapore again so i'll be reunited with my little brother and little sisters soon✌️ i'm raising money for my mental wellbeing which is so totally code for i'm trying to find a way to make my shituation better by making myself just the slightest bit happier after today's shenanadoodles

buy me coffee ?

After the day Mingi had, the cold drink in his hand felt like the reward he deserved. It was only then that Mingi realized why people always say that the Family Court is rough. Still, of course, it was extra rough for him because his ex-wife, the horned creature incarnate (a goat, not the devil), had dragged his name through the mud just to get the maximum alimony because she was a narcissistic bum with no life skill to fall back to as if Mingi was the one who told her to quit her job as a dental hygienist when they first got married.

During the mediation meetings and court proceedings, she took all of the potshots she could While no one took her seriously, it still pained Mingi because the more she and her lawyer attacked him, calling out all of his insecurities and questioning his character, the more obvious it was that Mingi had wasted 9 years of his life on this loser and he missed out on all of the marital milestones. The main sore spot was having kids. She argued that putting her body through pregnancy was out of the question because there were risks that could cause her body to look weird in the future and it's inhumane how a woman's body had to contort in such a way to accommodate another living being. But when her breast implant popped when she slammed the car door too hard, it was 'a normal occurrence'.

As much as his friend Yunho told him not to, Mingi couldn't help but wallow in the time he absolutely WASTED on the bitch only to be screwed over. The only good thing that came out of the divorce was the fact that he got out of it without having to pay alimony because his ex-wife had become too cocky with her cards. But still, Mingi had to give her the car, the savings account (that wasn't much compared to anything considering she had drained it to accommodate her filler addiction and alcohol dependency), and Tony Son, their personal trainer, the one thing Mingi could credit her because she had been the one who introduced him to the man who was able to sculpt his body to perfection.

"Is this seat taken?"

Mingi snapped his head to the side to see a woman younger than he, dressed in a tight-bodiced red sparkly dress that showed just enough cleavage for it to be classy rather than trashy and the A-line satin skirt stopped just three fingers width atop her knees. Slowly, Mingi nodded and gestured to the seat on his right side wordlessly. It wasn't until the woman flagged down the bartender and ordered her drink did Mingi questioned why she sat next to him when there were other seats in the bar.

"So, are you alone?" she asked, striking up a conversation with Mingi which honestly caught him by surprise because he had been told that he had a resting bitch face that doubled in intensity when he wasn't in the mood and he was doubling in his bad mood. "Yeah... I am, so..." his words allude to him wanting to be alone, but there was something about the person next to him that intrigued him so much so that his eyes seemed to be glued to her. Just the sight of her drinking her vodka cranberry made Mingi's eyes travel from her face down to her lap, watching the way she moved so gracefully. "So... You don't mind my asking why a man as handsome as you are would be sitting alone with a scowl on his face," she pointed out, forcing Mingi to consciously unfurrow his eyebrows and fake taking a sip of his drink, "I'm not scowling, I'm just tired and pissed off for wasting 9 years on a selfish bitch that deprived me of anything I want in life," he spat venomously, even the slight mention of his ex sent a really unpleasant taste in his mouth. "I'm so sorry to hear that. Anything I can do to help?" She pouted, inching closer to Mingi as somewhat of a signal. Noticing this, Mingi scoffed and shook his head but he still entertained the woman, "Got a time machine to help me undo the past 9 years?" "No, but maybe I can give you what your ex couldn't."

You couldn't help but bite your bottom lip when the look of shock on Mingi's face melted into intrigue. You had been watching him for an hour, sitting all alone, nursing his one drink as he toyed with his ring before chucking it into his breast pocket. Thank God he did because you were not about to approach a potentially spoken-for man. It took you a while to get substantial evidence of his status and it wasn't just because you were distracted by his plump ass in those slacks and the matching suit jacket and slightly unbuttoned black dress shirt didn't help your case.

"Little girl, I think I'm a bit too... Far for your reach," Mingi pointed out, raising an eyebrow at you as he wasn't sure that you knew what you were offering him. Mirroring him, you raised your eyebrow and shifted so that you faced him fully as you raised one leg and cross it over the other, successfully inviting Mingi to get a glimpse of more skin. "You don't know me or what I can do, sir," you smirked challengingly, now openly inviting him to poke you further.

You were delighted when you saw Mingi's jaw clench and throat bob after you called him sir. It was proof to you that Mingi had some sort of inclination of being in control and his little confession about not getting what he wanted from his ex-wife might be a glimpse of the kind of fun you could get from him. So without hesitation, you decided that you were going home with him.

Surprisingly, Mingi responded positively by leaning in to cup your chin and pull you close, just a wispy breath away from having your lips meet and you so desperately wanted to taste his because they just looked so damn juicy and plump. "You don't want to know all the things I've been deprived of... Baby." Your eyes darken and your legs crossed tighter to suppress the sudden arousal washing over your core, excited at the confirmation that Mingi was playing into your games just as you had wanted. All you needed to do was lock this down. So you let your hand lay on his thigh, squeezing it suggestively and enjoying the feeling of his muscle tensing underneath you each time your hand slid closer to his crotch to the point that your nail was scratching the inner side of his thigh just right. Despite being physically affected by you, Mingi still maintained eye-contact, daring you to poke his button just right.

"Yes, I do... Daddy."

In the blink of an eye, Mingi smashed his lips on you and all of the oxygen was knocked out of your lungs in one go. His lips were soft but the way he used them was rough yet calculated. You could taste the smoky whiskey on his tongue as he slipped it inside your mouth. Little did you know, he too, was enjoying the way you tasted. Your lip gloss had a sweetness to it that made him wonder if you're the type to plan things or if it was just a happy coincidence. He also took note of how you allowed him to lead you and the more he asserted himself onto you with every nibble of his lip and every caress of his tongue, showing that you're more on the submissive side and he likes it. A lot. The more you felt pleasure, the more you pleasured him back as evidenced by your hand rubbing against his raging boner.

Mingi smirked at the way you whimpered when he finally pulled away from you to slap a couple bills on the counter before he got off the stool, pulling you along with him. You wobbled slightly but Mingi immediately pulled you flush on his chest and despite having just made out with him, you found the gesture very hot. "Wanna go see if you can keep up with the list of things I missed out on?"

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

Mingi must be some kind of a business owner because no way he would have had a rather impressive office where you found yourself in. Well, on top of him on his couch, grinding your panty-less core against his thigh with your top down, allowing the older man to ogle at your tits as you tried to make yourself cum.

"Is that the best you can do?" Mingi taunted, circling his crystal glass which produced a tinkling sound from the ice in the drink he poured as soon as you reached his home. "Daddy, I want you to touch me," you whined but your hip was still relentlessly moving after making a big deal of how his thighs were so strong and you wanted to sit on them like a throne. So instead of just sitting, Mingi told you to make yourself useful and prep your pussy without his help and he wanted you to do it by riding his thigh. His thick, glorious thigh. "Don't you want to touch me, daddy?" you teased, cupping your boobs and tweaking your own nipples whilst throwing your head back, making a show out of it just to get Mingi to touch you. Sure, Mingi was intrigued, but he knew damn well that he was holding the reigns and he had to hold himself back from jumping at the opportunity to completely ravish you too soon. "I do, baby, but you're being a brat right now and refusing to listen to me. Had I wanted that, I would've stayed with my ex-wife." Your head snapped back up at the mention of his ex-wife and you glared at his smug smirking face, "You have me half naked on your lap and you still mentioned your ex-wife?" you gathered your skirt in your hand, exposing your cunt to Mingi's eyes and slowed your pace to a prolonged drag that left long, dark stain courtesy of your arousal.

Finding your petulance adorable, Mingi chuckled and pulled you in for a searing kiss with one hand cupping your chin and the other slapping you on the ass as if telling you to speed up your movement. "You're an adorable little doll and I'm gonna break you," he muttered against your lips before you could reply to him, Mingi tugged your hair back as he casually took a sip from his drink. The action made you yelp and Mingi swiftly leaned over and spit the drink into your mouth and clamped your jaw shut. "Swallow," he commanded and as you came down from being surprised, you stared into Mingi's eyes. At first, you only stared at him, feigning defiance just for fun and Mingi found that both intriguing and annoying. His grip moved to tightly grasp your jaw and he growled, "Swallow. It." He demanded in a stern voice that made your panties more damp as your cunt clench, leaving you unable to do anything more than whine and swallow the burning liquid. Mingi found you very mesmerizing even on an act as simple as you taking heed of his words. The stray spit and alcohol that trickled from the corners of your lips enhanced the glimmer of your smudged lipstick and lipgloss combo, turning Mingi on with how effortlessly sultry you looked. He was down and he was down bad. He wasn't even sure if he was down because Once the liquid was no longer there, you rolled out your tongue to proudly show your obedience and Mingi let out a shuddered breath seeing you just blindly following his orders like the good puppet you are.

"Fuck, you're gonna be the death of me."

In a flash, Mingi flipped you both around so that you were trapped underneath him with your head strategically on the armrest. The elevation allowed you to watch as Mingi dragged a hand down your body as if you were a work of art. "All this time... I was missing a lot all this time, that bitch took nine years out of me and gave me nothing," Mingi shuddered both in anger and in arousal. The contrasting thoughts between being so angry at his former partner and the excitement of being rewarded by being able to ravish you felt like waves crashing inside him. It was thrilling. It was exciting. It got his adrenaline pumping and God, he felt alive. "Poor baby," you purred all the while slowly popping the buttons of his dress shirt off to reveal the soft skin underneath, "You're so frustrated, It's a good thing I'm here now huh?"

You swung your leg up and used the tip of your toe to tilt Mingi's chin upwards maintaining a somewhat neutral expression but the twinkle in your eyes indicated clear intrigue. "Tell me all the things you want to do. What do you want most?" the question made Mingi roll his eyes back and he grabbed your leg by your ankle. "You nasty slut, you want to have an older cock so bad you're enticing me with empty promises, huh?" He mumbled against the skin of your leg, trailing his lips down from the heel and lower to your calf as his body followed down until he eventually stopped at the mid-section of your inner thigh. You helped him by flipping your skirt up, exposing your cunt wholly to him and slotting the leg you lifted on his shoulder, "Empty promises? I want to give you whatever you want daddy, and in order for me to be able to do that, I need to know what it is."

Thinking that he had nothing to lose anyway, Mingi smirked and decided to test you. "I want a baby," he stated, "I want to put my baby in you," he said oh so casually as if he hadn't had his fingers poking and prodding your cunt like they just belonged there. Truthfully speaking, Mingi was expecting you to push him off and ran away screaming because what kind of a hookup just casually dropped a bomb as big as he did?

But it seemed like Mingi's luck was turning around for the better because you replied by reaching forward to free his cock from his pants, trying as best as you could to suppress the surprise at Mingi's size (but failing as evidenced by the way your eyes bulged slightly and your tongue peeking out to lick your bottom lip in hunger) before you leaned back and opened your legs widely as an invitation for him. "Then do it, fuck me so hard and dumb and deep that I'd have no other choice but to have your baby," you smiled up at him. Mingi could only stare at you in shock initially, not really knowing what you meant until you whined and pulled him closer using the leg that was hooked on his shoulder. "Daddy, don't make me wait too long. Come on, put a baby in me!" you pleaded, cunt throbbing with eagerness to feel Mingi's cock stretching you now that you already caught a glimpse.

The shock melted away from Mingi's face and even as he was guiding his cock to your core, he was still carefully watching your face, not wanting to waste any twitch or shift in your face from feeling him but also he was trying to be careful in case you showed him any indication of regret or if you changed your mind. But the way you whined and rolled your hips so your wet cunt could meet his cock more gave him the green light.

"You dirty slut," Mingi grunted before he shoved his length inside you in one fluid movement. The accumulating arousal from you riding his thigh provided proper lubrication but his sheer size was not something you're used to so your body tensed up at the impact. "F-fuck, daddy, y-you-" "Am I tearing you apart, baby? Are you being split into two on daddy's fat cock?" he asked in faux worry that was just him being condescending towards you. But you don't care, you found it hot even when he talked down to you as if you were nothing but his plaything. "Yes, yes, daddy, I'm being split open on your cock but I love it! I love it so much!" you moaned, hands clawing at his skin, causing red streaks to appear from the pressure of your nails, "Fuck, I want more!"

With that, Mingi pushed your legs up by your thighs, exposing more of your lower half to him. "Be daddy's good girl and hold these open, I wanna see your pussy taking my cock raw," he hissed, eyes zeroing on the way your puffy lips split open to accommodate his size. Carefully, as if assessing a great piece of art, Mingi watched attentively The view almost brought tears to his eyes but he channeled the somewhat endearing moment into fucking you stupid into the mattress.

Each drag of Mingi's cock felt like fire against your inner walls. Although there was a slight discomfort with each movement, the added pleasure of being filled like you had never before made you addicted.

If you thought you were enjoying yourself, Mingi was very close to combusting and he was trying his best to not cum too soon as he didn't wanna be branded as the geezer who came too early. But he couldn't help it, not with the way both his ego and his cock were stroked. It was as if you were made for him and he felt that the moment he entered your sopping cunt. So Mingi shifted his focus to you instead, working to get you to cum first.

"Come on baby, cum for daddy. I need you to cum first so you'd be ripe and open for me to fill you up," Mingi huffed, pressing his pointy nose against the junction of your neck that sent tingles down your spine, "We need to do our best to make sure that you'd be good and pregnant, right?" The weight of his words caused your head to spin as the thought of him filling you full for his own pleasure filled your mind. "Yes, yes daddy, make me cum please," you whined into his ears, your body reacting almost automatically by rolling your hips against his own to match his speed and desire. Mingi growled hungrily and his pace quickened significantly as the impact got harder. You were sure that after this your ass would be different shades of red and blue but you couldn't care less. Especially if Mingi wanted to do more rounds with you, you'd gladly wear the bruises like a badge of honor.

"Fuck, you're so hot like this, you're so hot when you're willing and submissive for me," Mingi grunted, even verging on whining into your ears because you just felt so good to him but he held firm, "Are you close, baby? Are you cumming soon?" Lucky for him, you nodded hurriedly, confirming that you were close. Your brain had been marinating in the dizzying arousal that it was embarrassingly quick for you to nearly reach your climax in a rather short time. However, your response was deemed lacking to Mingi who wanted to hear a verbal response from you. Mingi was quick to slap you hard on your left tit as a punishment, feeling the need to chastise you for simplifying your response.

The words died on Mingi's tongue and his hips sharply halted to a stop when he saw you yelp and shudder before coming completely undone underneath him, writhing pathetically as your nails grazed his skin, leaving red streaks for Mingi to show off for days on end. His eyes darken when he saw tears pooled in your own eyes before dropping, creating the illusion of your eyes sparkling which served a rather complex combination of innocence and sinful. "M-M- Daddy," you whimpered in almost a hushed tone, barely comprehensible but to Mingi the sound was thunderous in Mingi's ears, ringing, because his baby girl needed him. His baby girl wanted him. His baby girl who's willing to give him anything he could ask for was longing for him. So who is he to deny you?

Seeing you in such a vulnerable state seemed to unlock something primal in Mingi because while you were reeling down from your orgasm, Mingi was instead put into some sort of a trance. His tongue darted out to lick his bottom lip, slightly hoping that he could taste your sweetness in the air, and his hips restarted with a pace so hard and quick, for a moment you forgot that Mingi was a human.

The pleasure from your orgasm tripled with the additional friction continuously given by Mingi whose head was flooded with the thought of truly possibly getting you pregnant from this first time. Not that he was planning on only fucking you once, not after he felt how good you made him feel both emotionally and physically. He was planning to pamper you to death and maybe that was the sexually frustrated side in him but he didn't care, he didn't care how crazy he was because you were the one who made him crazy.

The sound of hips snapping together in a rhythm accompanied by your drunk-like moans sounded like a symphony in Mingi's ears. "F-fuck baby, I'm gonna fill you up now," Mingi grunted, his eyes closing and his forehead dropping to your shoulder, "I'm gonna fill you up with my seed to the brim and you're gonna be a good girl and keep it all in so my baby can grow safely inside of you, okay?" He whispered so intimately against your shoulder that both your lips and cunt wept. You wouldn't be surprised if there was a pool underneath you after you were done and you won't hesitate to ask for more. "Cum, daddy. Cum inside me. Fill me up so hard and full like you promised me!" You whined, your hands snaking around his shoulders to hold tight as the overstimulation caused a tingling pain that made your toes curl while Mingi was getting such a high from his ego being fed.

"Fuck, baby girl, this is it, I'm gonna put my baby in you!" Mingi grunted and thrusted, once, twice, thrice, before his hips stuttered and you felt a gush of warmth spilling deep inside your cunt. The physical feeling of being filled up made your eyes roll into your head and the realization of what just happened made you blush as if you weren't whoring for his cock not 10 minutes ago.

As Mingi slowly came down from his high, his mind cleared up and he was able to pepper kisses from your shoulders, up your neck, along your jawline, and then gently all over your face. The contrast of the sweetness of the older man and the nasty act you both just did made you suddenly turn all giggly and shy. "Aww, come on, are you trying to get away from me?" Mingi smirked, trying to chase another kiss from your lips but you kept dodging him, "That's pretty absurd considering I still have my cock inside of you, plugging you full." Your eyes widened at the vulgarity of his chosen words and you couldn't help but smack him on the shoulder but fail to hold back a giggle, "Don't say it like that!" "Like what? Like the way it is?" Mingi teased, pushing himself up to trail a finger on your stomach which made your breath hitch and your muscle to tense, "I need to make sure you really do get pregnant so you can give me my baby just like I wanted," his voice trailed as his fingers drew patterns on your skin almost lovingly and the nonsensical side of you wanted to believe that he was showing his affection to you. You figured that there was only one way to find out.

Without missing a beat, you took his finger that was tracing your skin into your mouth and start licking around as if it was a lollipop, effectively causing Mingi's attention to shift to your face and his cock to twitch inside you. "Who said we're only gonna try this once, daddy? You're gonna fuck me as much as you like until I'm good and pregnant."

The smirk that bloomed on Mingi's face was devilish and almost menacing, showing his genuine intention to get wamhat he wanted.

"I hope you'd never ask. I'm gonna fuck you all night long and you're gonna be a good girl and take it all with no complaint."

As if you'd say no.

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[lizzobetumblin]

Melissa hated her feelings. 

She buried them in a chest in the 5th grade (along with her ability to express them). Other peoples' feelings on the other hand was her forte. She could process, decipher and regurgitate other peoples emotions effortlessly. This gift could’ve taken her through college, all the way to a degree in psychology. Distinguished Dr. Jefferson with a PhD and a cozy office and impressive roster of high-profile, weallthy clients was a shiny idea. Fate would have a different hand for Melissa her talents were exhausted on mediating family fights, friend group drama, and charming her way out of confronting her own feelings. 

“Feelings.” Even saying it out loud to herself seemed silly. Something reserved for ‘cry babies’ and water signs. Typical Sunday nights started tame, reading or writing fan-fiction and drinking cranapple juice. And then like clock work her father would yell her name, 

‘MELISSA!!!’ Emotionless, she’d get up dust off her Winnie the Pooh shorts and make her way downstairs. On the long walk down the hall to the stairs leading to the living room brawl, she’d go through her check list: 

1.) Don’t cry.   

 2.) Stay neutral; Deescalate

3.)Don’t take anything personal. This isn’t about you

She padded down the carpeted stairs in her old soft socks to see her mother tightlipped and tear streaked thinking, 

‘she broke rule number 1’. Her father, Michael was proud and angry, his big belly filled with self righteousness. She knew he would be unyielding in his resolve and at this point her only option was to deescalate.

 ‘Rule number 2’. Then her sister the water sign and calamity for the evening sat on the floor nearly fetal, face red and raw with emotion. 

‘Its not your fault’ Melissa wanted to say ‘You just didn’t follow the rules… you’re loved.’ But she couldn’t say that because she’d be breaking rule number 3. It wasn’t about how Melissa felt. Even though she felt like screaming,

“VANESSA, YOU DIDN’T DO ANYTHING WRONG. DAD—YOU JUST HAVE PENT UP ANGER BECAUSE YOU GREW UP IN THE HOOD OF DETROIT AS A BLACK MAN IN THE 60s AND 70s. YOU NEED A HEALTHY OUTLET LIKE.. I DONT KNOW… THERAPY?!?!?! THIS IS A WASTE OF ALL OF OUR TIME. I LITERALLY JUST WROTE THE BEST SAILOR SATURN x CHIBI USA FANFICTION EVER AND THIS IS KILLING MY VIBE!”

Instead, she decide to hear every one out. She decided to help. To calm her dragon of a father down. To be a translator for her emotional sister. To not take it personal. To stay neutral. To not cry. 

9 years later, at her fathers funeral she still never broke the rules. She played her flute and spoke at his memorial. She was present for her mother because it wasn’t about her. When other peoples' emotions bubbled up she stayed neutral. She sat through both services and she did not cry. It wasn’t until she excused herself to make a phone call outside did she collapse onto the stairs of the funeral home and weep alone in the cold Detroit snow. 

It’s okay to break the rules sometimes, she reminded herself. As long as no one else sees it.

Traumas began to compact on Melissa, as they do. Humans tend to collect traumas like pebbles on a long hike. We toss them into our backpacks and keep moving forward. Some hikers would falter, but Melissa was built for this. She’d carried the stones of her family’s traumas uphill for years. She was strong. 

When men began to befriend and reject her, saying ‘you’re too good for me’ but not too good to make them feel good. She carried that. 

When childhood friends began to cut off the strings of her heart, saying ‘We can’t be friends anymore’. She carried that.

When her family separated like dandelion seeds, it seemed like they’d never be together again. Melissa slept on so many couches, floors and car seats sometimes she didn’t know if she’d see them again. 

She carried that. 

Dying was never an option though sometimes she didn’t mind the thought of it. Peace and warmth were two things she’d desperately yearned and hadn’t felt fully since the womb. Then one night in the pitch black of the hot, sweaty, roach-infested studio in southeast Houston she slept in she wondered:

‘Why can’t I break the rules?’ She’d seen everyone else in her life break them like popsicle sticks. And she didn’t just want to break the rules, she wanted to break them boldly and loudly and annoyingly and honestly and sloppily like every one else gets to do. It was in that moment, tucked in a thin jacket inside of an 8-foot high instrument cubby in the inky darkness—it hit her. 

‘Is my suffering for a high purpose? Or is my suffering trying to kill me?’ 

She cried. 

She escalated. 

She took it personal. 

But it wasn’t enough. She wanted to scream in a microphone in a sea of shadowy faces. She drank whiskey and wove her pain into rock music. 

‘Music is my boyfriend’ she declared. The only man that kept his baggage to hisself. And it healed her. It gave her voice reason and purpose. 

The pebble-laden hike became lighter with time. The incline eventually evened out to flat, beautiful landscapes where the breeze finally met her back. She knew it wasn’t gonna be easy or sunshine but even the rain cleansed her and it was beautiful too. 

Somewhere in the rain she decided rules were meant to be built and broken. Like trust and love and friendships and families. Because every thing deserves the opportunity to change and grow. 

So... She broke rule number 1 on stage while singing a beautiful song. Dr. Jefferson (PhD) screamed for her to stop but she didn’t listen and the tears flowed like rivers of emotion down her cheeks. 

Rule number 2 was broken when she grew older and saw the injustices of the world. Marching with hundreds in protest she realized not everything needs to be pacified. 

And one day when she finally fell in love, she broke rule number 3. No matter how much training she’d done she couldn't help but take every thing her lover said and did personal. But it was ok. Because in all her resistance she realized breaking rules was her power. 

Melissa began to fall for her feelings. Her feelings gave life purpose. They weren’t always logical, as feelings seldom are. They were sloppy and embarrassing and rude and so fucking uncomfortable. But they were hers. And they were real. And when she sat alone sipping wine, staring at the moon…They were the only ones still by her side. Ready to break the rules for her because they loved her. 

And she finally loved them back. 

[ezukll]

⠀⠀⠀ ♡ 𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐔𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄𝐒

𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐔𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝟏𝐒𝐓 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 ♡

Venus in the first house represents a beautiful and pleasant exterior. This placement suggests a pleasant, attractive facial appearance, graceful physical movements, and a charming way of speaking. It can also be interpreted as having a peaceful and calming presence. With this placement, one may have a pleasant voice that is enjoyable to hear. Additionally, a Venus in the first house indicates that the individual's appearance plays an important role in their sense of identity, self-worth, and ego.

𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐔𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝟐𝐍𝐃 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 ♡

Venus in the second house suggests a harmonious connection between physical possessions and values. It also implies a focus on material possessions and personal comfort. While this placement can suggest an individual with a more refined taste, it may also create a reliance on material luxuries. Additionally, with Venus in the second house, one may have an affinity for collecting items and seeking physical pleasure in life. Their values and priorities may be more aligned with material goods and possessions.

𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐔𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝟑𝐑𝐃 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 ♡

Venus in the third house represents a focus on communication and mental stimulation. This individual may have a charming and well-spoken manner and a tendency to express themselves concisely and effectively. They may also have a passion for learning, exploring new ideas, and engaging in intellectual pursuits. With this placement, one may excel at writing and expressing themselves verbally. Additionally, they may have a gentle and diplomatic approach to interactions, using their communication skills to mediate conflicts.

𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐔𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝟒𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 ♡

Venus in the fourth house indicates a focus on home and family. The individual with this placement may have a strong attachment to their roots, childhood home, and family history. They may have an appreciation for the stability, security, and comforts that come with a nurturing environment. They may also be deeply attached to their family's customs and traditions. With this placement, one may be drawn to creating a family or extending their ancestral line. Additionally, this placement suggests being driven to protect and nurture others, especially their loved ones.

𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐔𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝟓𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 ♡

Venus in the fifth house represents a strong emphasis on creativity, passion, romance, and sensuality. This placement suggests someone with a playful nature and a focus on expressing their creativity and enjoyment of the arts. With this placement, one may have a lively imagination, a passion for creative pursuits, and an interest in exploring their sense of fun and creativity. They may also enjoy a lively social life, as they seek out a passionate and energetic romantic partner. Lastly, with this placement, one's children may be a prominent focus and concern..

𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐔𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝟔𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 ♡

Venus in the sixth house indicates a focus on service, duty, and dedication to others. The individual with this placement may have a strong desire to be useful and helpful to those around them. They may have high standards of discipline and work ethic, and take pride in being a hard worker. They may also focus much of their energy on their daily routine and developing a healthy daily routine. Additionally, they may be conscious of their physical health, and pay close attention to maintaining it.

𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐔𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 ♡

Venus in the seventh house suggests an emphasis on intimate relationships and one-on-one connections. The individual with this placement may be driven by their desire to find a romantic partner and may be driven to seek out relationships. They may be passionate about their relationships and take great care in cultivating them. Additionally, they may have a keen intuition when it comes to relationships and be able to assess the compatibility of different pairings. This placement also suggests having an appreciation for one-on-one conversations and interactions.

𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐔𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝟖𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 ♡

Venus in the eighth house suggests a focus on the taboo, the mysterious, and the arcane. The individual with this placement may be drawn to exploring the dark and hidden sides of life. They may be interested in topics such as occultism and mysticism, and have a knack for uncovering hidden truths. Additionally, with this placement, the individual may have an intense desire for deep and intimate connections that go beyond physical attraction. They may form intense romantic relationships and may even gravitate towards having romantic connections with those who hold power.

𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐔𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝟗𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 ♡

Venus in the ninth house suggests a focus on expanding knowledge and broadening the mind. The individual with this placement may have an innate curiosity about the world and a desire to explore different cultures, traditions, and ideas. They may have a fascination with the mystical and the spiritual, and with exploring new concepts, experiences, and perspectives. Additionally, this placement suggests a desire to seek the truths of the universe and an appreciation for higher education.

𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐔𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝟏𝟎𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 ♡

Venus in the tenth house suggests an emphasis on ambition, social status, and career goals. The individual with this placement may have a strong desire to achieve success and recognition in their career field. They may also have an eye for aesthetics and take particular pride in projecting a polished and elegant professional image. Additionally, this placement suggests a strong drive to achieve high social status and prestige, and a focus on maintaining a positive public image.

𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐔𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝟏𝟏𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 ♡

Venus in the eleventh house suggests a focus on community, humanitarianism, and friendship. The individual with this placement may have a desire to help others and contribute to the well being of society. They may have an innate understanding of how to create harmony and positive vibrations within a group. They may also have an innate sense for finding common ground and bringing people together. Additionally, they may have a desire to expand their social circles and forge meaningful relationships with a wide range of people.

𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐔𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝟏𝟐𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 ♡

Venus in the twelfth house suggests a focus on the subconscious, spirituality, and inner growth. The individual with this placement may have a deep, innate connection with the unseen energies of the world, and can be sensitive to energies that cannot be seen with the naked eye. They may be driven by a desire to understand and transform their own subconscious patterns and energy. They may also have a deep attraction to the mysterious and unknown, and feel drawn to explore the unexplored dimensions of life. Furthermore, the individual may experience strong dreams and have a strong intuition.

⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀

[midnight-bay-if]

"If silence claims the waters of Midnight Bay, death has come to stay."

"Every day, I miss him, and every day, I’m scared that I’ll miss him less. That one day, I’ll wake up, and I won’t remember how his hair would stick up in odd angles in the morning or how black he liked his coffee. That the bedtime stories he would read me before bed no longer guide my morals nor parse their wisdom in his voice..."

If you ask me why I still seek revenge, this is what I'll say: I will not forget.

Because nothing could be more terrifying than the idea of time passing without my father's death having any justice or resolution, and years down the line, I’ll be sitting in this diner with you, but we won’t be talking about my dad at all anymore."

Come on. Let's kill the killer.

Demo: Out Now (26,000) words.

Simon/Simone [f/m] Task Force Leader. Human Simon/Simone comes from a wealthy family with a long history of government service and civil partnerships. Simon/Simone is somewhat of a black sheep and is estranged from a large portion of their family. After a bout of teenage rebellion, Simon/Simone find themselves enlisted in the military to ‘correct’ their behaviour. However, with a penchant for leadership and a tactician's mind, they are recruited by a strange, secretive organisation with questionable goals.

After two more victims of 'The Bay Slasher' are found discarded on the bay, Simon/Simone drives themselves and their team into town, on orders from their mysterious higher-ups, ready to put away this killer for good. But cases such as these are never simple, and even more so with a far too clever and far too perceptive P.I. hot on their heels.

Rain [non-binary] The Mediator. Supernatural type; Pixie Rain grew up in a very wet biome of the world associated with fairies, pixies and elementals. After a great conflict, Rain was practically herded into the arms of a greater power, who guided them into the arms of Simon/Simone, who became their new leader.

When Simon/Simone tells them that one day, they will be going to the practically derelict town of Albach Bay to catch a dangerous killer, they shrug, smile, and pack their bags without a second thought. It doesn't take long for them to realise this isn't a typical case, even by their standards.

Taj [f/m] The Infiltrator. Supernatural type: Qita Taj is part of an ever-shrinking community hidden well in the Egyptian underbellies. Qita are a humanoid cat race native to Egypt and were once revered by humans at the dawn of their civilisation. However, that reverence began to fizzle out when a greater power, deciding their people had become too powerful,

After a great conflict, Taj is captured and 'recruited' to join a mysterious organisation dedicating themselves to maintaining balance. Taj is ultimately led to Simon/Simone and becomes the final member of their specialised team. Showing great resistance at first, eventually, Taj learns to accept and respect Simon/Simone, so when their leader declares they are to travel to the backwater town of Albach Bay, well... Taj comes along. Though not without reluctance.

Nazu/Naera [f/m] Supernatural type: Demon Nazu/Naera is a demon prince/princess from Hael. During a terrible conflict, their great power was muzzled as punishment for their part in the war. They've been seeking the people responsible so they can regain the power they lost.

Their search has lasted more than a decade, but now... Now they find themselves in a small, human town where sin oozes from every shadow, beckoning every passer-by to partake in its debauchery. To top it off? They can hear their power singing to them. It's close. Heh... They might even end up liking it here.

Umbra [f/m] Supernatural type: ??? Umbra is an anomaly. Nothing about them is real. None of it should exist. Every facet of their being has been strung together out of sheer will and barely held together by a thread. One wrong touch and they may fall apart, like unravelling a ball of yarn or pulling apart a puppet on a string.

So, why? Why do they exist? Simple.

They exist for you.

RO's appearances:

Simon: Broad-shouldered, athletic build with reasonably short black hair and light warm skin. He has warm brown eyes hidden behind fashionable square frames and is often wearing tailored suits designed to move in.

Simone: Athletic build with long black hair (typically pinned up) and light, warm skin. She has warm brown eyes hidden behind fashionable square frames and is often wearing tailored suits designed to move in.

Rain: They have a slim, petite build with flawless tawny skin, which is amplified by their pale blue hair and matching pale eyes. They tend to opt for a more colourful wardrobe in the pastel range.

Taj (male): He has a lean build, golden brown skin, and dark, curly brown hair that tends to have a mind of its own. His ears and tail are matching brown, reminiscent of a Havana Brown cat. (He keeps them hidden underneath his clothes, which are often oversized to hide this face.) He also has very serious grey eyes and numerous scars marking his body.

Taj (female): She has a lean build, golden brown skin, and dark curly brown hair that tends to have a mind of its own. Her ears and tail are a matching brown, reminiscent of a Havana Brown cat. (She keeps them hidden underneath her clothes.) She also has very serious grey eyes and numerous scars marking her body.

Nazu: (As a human)He is very built with dark skin, which ensures his almost luminescent amber eyes stand out. His long, dark dreads are usually pulled up in a bun. Nazu tends to opt for clothes designed to tantalise, as well as show off the hair dusting his chest and arms.

When in his usual form, he also has large horns that curl out of his head, with a more reddish hue to his dark skin. Plus, the whites of his eyes will turn black.

Naera: (As a human) She is very curvy, opting instead to amplify her femininity in human form. Her dark skin ensures her luminescent amber eyes stand out. Her long, dark hair is in tight braids that flow down her back. Naera will opt for clothing designed to tantalise, teasing her assets in a flirty way.

When in her usual form, her horns curl out of her head, with a reddish hue to her dark skin. Plus, the whites of her eyes will turn black.

Umbra (male): Tall and lean build with black shoulder-length hair that contrasts against his pale, almost ghostly skin. He tends to have dark circles under his equally black eyes, as well as a deep scar cut through his left brow. His clothing usually consists of a black leather jacket, black pants and black combat boots.

Umbra (female): Tall and slim build with long black hair, half up in a pony, that contrasts against her pale, almost ghostly skin. She tends to have dark circles under her equally black eyes, as well as a deep scar cut through her left brow. Her clothing usually includes a black leather jacket, plaid skirt and black combat boots.

An urban fantasy/romance IF based in the fictional town of 'Albach Bay'.

Customise your private investigator: choose name, gender, appearance, sexuality, skill set and personality.

Play as male, female, or non-binary: straight, gay, bisexual, pansexual, as well as aromantic, asexual, or aro-ace.

Late 90s setting with limited technology, so be prepared to wait ten minutes for your PC to boot up.

Roleplay your private investigator how you want to. My intention is no 'game over' screens. There are no wrong answers in this game.

5 main companions to befriend or romance, each with their own personalities and stories to tell.

Collect evidence in your notebook as you scour the dilapidated streets and beaches of Albach Bay for clues to finally catch your father's killer for good.

Revenge is best served cold.

Rated 18+

[togethermediation]

Navigating Family Disputes: The Growing Role of Mediation Services in the UK

Family mediation services in the UK have become an increasingly popular and effective means of resolving disputes related to separation, divorce, and child arrangements. This alternative dispute resolution method offers a structured yet flexible approach to help families navigate conflicts with the assistance of an impartial mediator.

The Role of Family Mediation

Family mediation Services provides a platform where conflicting parties can discuss their issues in a neutral environment, guided by a trained mediator. The primary role of the mediator is to facilitate communication, help identify the underlying issues, and assist the parties in exploring potential solutions. Unlike a judge or arbitrator, a mediator does not make decisions but empowers the parties to reach their own agreements.

Benefits of Family Mediation

One of the main advantages of Family Mediation Services UK is that it is typically faster and more cost-effective than going through the courts. Court proceedings can be lengthy and expensive, whereas mediation sessions are designed to be more flexible and less formal. This approach not only saves time and money but also reduces the emotional strain on all involved parties, particularly children.

Mediation also promotes cooperative problem-solving and improves communication between the parties, which can be beneficial for maintaining a civil relationship post-separation. This is especially important when children are involved, as it fosters a more amicable environment for co-parenting.

Legal Framework and Access

In the UK, mediation is encouraged by the government as a first step before resorting to the courts. The Children and Families Act 2014 made it a legal requirement for individuals to attend a Mediation Information and Assessment Meeting (MIAM) before applying to court for a resolution on family issues, unless exempted. This initiative aims to reduce the number of cases reaching court and to promote the benefits of mediation.

Process of Family Mediation

The mediation process typically begins with a MIAM, where the mediator assesses whether mediation is suitable for the parties involved. If both parties agree to proceed, mediation sessions are scheduled. These sessions can cover various topics, including financial settlements, property division, and child arrangements.

During mediation, the mediator ensures that both parties have an equal opportunity to express their views and concerns. The discussions are confidential, and any agreements reached can be made legally binding through a consent order, approved by a court.

Challenges and Considerations

While family mediation offers numerous benefits, it is not suitable for all situations. Cases involving domestic abuse, severe power imbalances, or where one party is unwilling to participate in good faith may not be appropriate for mediation. Additionally, the success of mediation largely depends on the willingness of both parties to cooperate and compromise.

Conclusion

Family mediation services in the UK play a crucial role in helping families resolve disputes amicably and efficiently. By providing a supportive environment for open dialogue, Best Family Mediation Service helps parties reach mutually satisfactory agreements, ultimately benefiting both the individuals involved and the wider family unit. As awareness and utilization of mediation grow, it stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of family dispute resolution in the UK.

[thy-golden-knight]

Knightly lifestyle ideas

Carry yourself with confidence, keep your head high and your steps firm

Always carry a pocket knife in case of emergencies

Whenever you see a person struggling with heavy bags, especially women and the elderly, make haste to offer help

If they refuse help, do not press further. Respecting boundaries is essential

Decadent fur rugs in your bedchamber

Become passionate about a sport of your choosing, be it a historical one or not

Your home is your fortress, hence any good knight should be able perform basic repairs to keep his castle running

Forgo the plastic: drink your water, wine and other beverages out of goblets and glassware

Be an example to your younger siblings on how to treat other people with respect, dignity and kindness

Treat hardships in thy life as quests to complete and dragons to slay

Attend self-defense classes. Learn to take down opponents twice your size

A signet ring with your family's crest / other personal symbol

If you have a dog, train it extensively to make it your guardian and a faithful companion

Assemble a private library full of classical masterpieces and epic poetry

Gather up your courage and intervene if you see someone getting bullied

Lush bathrobe in rich burgundy / navy / emerald with a golden thread

Volunteer to be the mediator in your siblings' quarrels

Know your way around fine dining, whether it's uncorking a bottle of champagne or using the right fork and knife

Learn how to play a musical instrument like flute or guitar

Study different schools of thought, religions and cultures. You might find them not so different from yours

And overall whenever you see an opportunity to do good, take it at once. Knight's ultimate purpose is to serve, be of service to others, be it friends and loved ones or complete strangers.

[rosewaterandivy]

wouldn’t know where to start

summary: she likes to roll here in my ashes anyway

pairing: former s.h. x f!reader

a/n: did anyone ask for this? no, but I felt it in my heart of hearts! we need some hangdog steve and Mother Nature working her magic— adrenaline, tension, & forced proximity, aka storm chaser!steve and his band of misfits.

series m.list

It was nearing sundown as he drove into the small town. Soft summer winds blew through the wheat fields, bending the golden stalks as if it were an ocean of glimmering sunlight.

Main Street didn’t have much to offer— a Sonic, Dollar General, and a lone 7-11 were the corporate standouts amongst a panoply of mom and pop store fronts offering everything from a homestyle breakfast to antiques to laundering services.

Letting his wrist hang against the wheel, he pulled into the turn lane and flipped on his signal. A lone ‘88 Ford pickup passed him by with a neighborly tip of the hat. He flashed a smile and wave as he turned into the gas station.

He parks the rig and cuts the engine. To his right, Eddie blinks slowly taking in his surroundings.

“This it?”

His voice is scratchy with remnants of sleep. He reached back to wake Dustin and Robin, the latter doing so a bit more spastically than the situation warranted.

She rubs the sleep from her eyes as Steve exits the cab and waits at the gas pump.

Soon, Dustin and Eddie start whispering about what supplies to stock up on from the gas station and stumble from the truck.

Robin stretches and rolls her neck before pressing her finger to roll down the window.

Steve is leaning against the dusty cab, marks of red and ochre cleaving to his white tee shirt as he watches the numbers tick by from behind his aviators.

“Hey,” She offers with a quick grin, “Kinda like old home week, huh?”

He nods and pushes off the truck stepping toward her window. His face is drawn behind his glasses, despite his closed lip smile. He pulls the ball cap from his head and runs a hand through his hair.

It’s a lost cause really. He’d thrown it on earlier at the motel before they’d rushed out of the room just before checkout time. Between driving all day and mediating arguments that broke out between his three stooges, there hadn’t been time to pull off and change in an attempt to make himself decent.

The hat goes back on but Robin manages to pluck the glasses from his face and place them on her own. She sticks her tongue out and rolls the window back up just as the pump stops with a click.

He can hear Eddie and Dustin bickering as they walk back to the truck— something about the drone and upgrades. Steve returns the pump and slides his phone from his back pocket, the screen brightening back to life.

He thumbs through his messages with a sigh and pauses at your name.

As expected, there’s no response to his earlier query. The message reads delivered but his heart still sinks at being rebuffed.

Still in TX?

He’d sent that weeks ago. And still, he had no clue what to expect. For all he knew, he could show up to find another family living at the property or your granddaddy greeting him at the door with his shotgun.

It could really go either way.

Settling back in his seat, he puts the truck in gear and turns back into Main Street. Robin, Eddie, and Dustin chatter about some such shit as he grips the wheel, knuckles flaring white the closer and closer they drive to the house.

Red dust kicks up under foot as he steps out of the truck. The white-washed house before him is bathed in a dull yellow light from the lone bulb on the porch.

He turns back to the truck.

He could just pack it up and head back now, it wasn’t too late. He hadn’t been spotted yet and no one would be the wiser. Robin catches his eye with her blue eyes wide, a slow shake of her head tells him to do the damn thing.

A storm door slowly creaks open, boots falling against the worn wooden planks on the porch.

“Well, well, well,” A gruff voice intones into the night air. “I’ll be damned.”

Steve slowly turns around, willing his shoulders back down from his ears, and pastes on a megawatt smile.

“Hi, Mr. Wilder,” He greets with a wave, “Long time, no see.”

The old man scoffs, “You can say that again.” The double-barrel of the gun remains trained on Steve, his eye never leaving the scope.

Steve clears his throat uncomfortably.

“D’you know where she is?”

He laughs in reply, a callous thing.

“I sure as shit know where you weren’t.” He steps down from the porch, a flood light flickering on and illuminating the front yard as he does so. “At the altar, where you swore to me you’d be as you begged for my blessing.”

Logically, Steve knew it was coming. But it was still hard to stomach— he was a coward and he well knew it too.

“Now, Imma give you the count of three to git off my property. Which I think is mighty fair of me, considerin’ you how you broke her heart and all.”

Steve slowly backs up, hands in front of his body as if to soothe a wild animal.

“Sir, I don’t mean any offense, but if I could just talk to her—“

A sudden gust of cool air blows through the trees. The gun lowers minutely as Steve peers across the horizon, searching for something.

Rolling black clouds from the west, gaining speed and moisture. The temperature drops as the evening birdsong falls to a hush.

Robin scrambles out of the truck, all gangly legs and stammering sentences.

“Steve, it’s headed toward us. The doppler—“

“I know. Rob, get the—“

“Already done.”

Eddie and Dustin fall into step at his side, equipment gathered in their arms.

The old man sighs, pinching his fingers between his eyes in frustration and defeat.

“You remember where the storm cellar is?”

“Yessir.”

“I’ll meet you down there after I lock up the barn and house.”

Thunder rolls overhead as Steve leads his team into your family’s storm cellar out back. Crashes of lightning illuminate the freshly harvested fields, hay bales bundled tightly.

Your granddaddy joins them not five minutes later, shotgun still in hand. The phone in his pocket rings shrilly.

“You know, if I never saw your ugly mug ever again, I’d die a happy man.”

“Yessir, sorry sir.” Steve responds sheepishly as Eddie struggles to contain his laughter.

He sighs again and brings the phone to his ear. “You sure as shit better be, Harrington.”

[thebisexualdogdad]

Summer road trip with the batfam (batfam x GN!reader)

● so Bruce rented an RV for the batfam to go on a three month coast to coast road trip

● no crime fighting, just family time

● with you, Bruce, Dick, Jason, Tim, Damian, Barbara, Duke, Cass, Stephanie and of course Haley and Ace it was a bit of a tight squeeze

● Alfred was back at home taking a much needed work free staycation

● Kate was also invited but she refused to be stuck in an RV with ten other people all summer, she and Alfred are happy having breakfast together once a week

● Bruce drives the entire time with Damian as his navigator

● mostly because Damian and Jason would kill each other if they weren't separated

● Jason has purposely instigated fights with Damian by eating his snacks clearly labeled 'Damian' on them

● and sometimes Jason gets accused when it was actually Cass who took Damians snacks

● Barbara has every kind of first aid or bug repellent you can think of

● you stop to go kayaking and she pulls six different kinds of sunscreen out of her bag

● Cass is the one delegated to documenting the trip

● and she takes her job very seriously

● she never not has her camera in her hands either taking pictures or videos

● Stephanie "no Cass we do not need photos of the gas station bathroom"

● and she has photos of everyone sleeping in weird positions on the rv

● and a video of Jason snoring to prove to him that he does in fact snore

● you all take turns on where you guys sleep

● there's one queen sized bed in the back that fits three and the two couches turn into a bed that fits another three and the rest are in sleeping bags on the floor

● Ace and Haley however always sleep cuddling someone in the nice comfy queen bed

● Tim has researched every single place you guys are stopping at

● Bruce thought it would be fun to just wing it and see what happens

● but Tim would not let that happen, he has the entire trip planned out down to what towns you would need to stop in for gas

● places everyone requested to go that Tim denied

● Bruce: the world's biggest ball of yarn because it's a classic road trip must see

● Dick: the corn palace

● Jason: vegas

● Damian: probably like a sword museum in the middle of nowhere that he somehow knows has an authentic ancient sword the museum thinks is a replica

● Barbara: the mothman museum

● Stephanie: Roswell

● Duke: the first taco bell

● Cass: dinosaur world

● you do stop at multiple national parks

● going hiking and swimming in little lakes with their own waterfalls

● Jason tries to sneak a snake he finds back onto the RV

● Duke "Oh no, absolutely not, get that thing out of here"

● Damian "you afraid of a little old snake Thomas?"

● Duke "that thing is not little, it is a deadly creature and I do not want it anywhere near me!"

● the RV breaks down outside a town in Wyoming with no cell service

● you all argue about who has to walk the five miles into town to get help

● Bruce and Dick are the two that end up having to do it

● when they return Damian has Tim in a headlock and Cass is taking video of it

● the random guy with the tow truck they brought back "uhh are they okay"

● Bruce "Oh yeah this is normal for them"

● you and Stephanie ended up breaking the no crime fighting rule when you went into a convenience store for more snacks and walked right into a robbery in action

● you two kicked their asses with ease, tied them up for the cops and bought your snacks like nothing happened

● Barbara back at the RV "Y/N is that blood on your face?"

● "nope don't worry about it!"

● Dick brings lots of board games to play while on the road

● Tim and Damian go way too hard trying to win which you have to play mediator for before they try to throw each other out the moving RV

● Jason still loses even though he cheats

● and Stephanie pretends not to know the rules just to mess with Tim and Damian

● you also stop at a bunch of campgrounds, telling ghost stories and having s'mores around a fire

● Barbara "has anyone seen Jason?"

● Dick "I'm pretty sure he said something about being excited to finally cross off peeing in the woods off his bucket list"

● Duke "he has the weirdest bucket list"

● a lot of you are big readers so there's books packed everywhere

● Duke "ooh we should have a book club"

● Jason "absolutely not you're lucky I even participate in Grayson's lame board games"

● Damian "for once I actually agree with Todd"

● you guys finally make it to the west coast and you all stumble out of the RV

● Tim "thank God this trip is finally over"

● Bruce "Tim we are only half way, we still have another month of driving back to Gotham"

● Stephanie "I should have stayed home with Alfred"

[girlkisser13]

hestia cabin headcanons

• logically, it would make sense for the unclaimed demigods to be in hestia’s cabin.

• a buddy system pairs new arrivals with experienced campers from the hestia cabin, helping them navigate camp life and adjust to their new environment.

• every camper regardless of being claimed are given a week in hestia's cabin to get used to camp. a reminder that they are all demigods warmed by the same hearth. they are all family.

• demigods get claimed faster when they’re in hestia’s cabin because she glares at her siblings, nieces and nephews until they claim them.

• hestia is happy that so many are finally feeling the comforts of home.

• her cabin has no counselor.

• instead, she appoints a chosen mortal with clear sight as her champion.

• this person acts as the cabin counselor.

• although they’re mortal, they exhibit enhanced empathy, a calming presence, and a natural talent for mediation and conflict resolution, gifts subtly bestowed by hestia.

• the champion also receives mentorship from hestia herself, often through dreams, visions, or quiet moments of reflection by the hearth.

• this guidance helps them navigate their responsibilities and grow into their role.

• the cabin frequently engages in community service projects around camp half-blood, such as maintaining gardens, repairing cabins, and organizing camp-wide events.

• hestia's champion often leads these initiatives, ensuring that everyone has a role and that the projects reflect the values of unity and care.

• in hermes’ cabin they would always be guests but in hestia’s cabin, they would be at home (at least until they get claimed).

• this ensures that EVERY demigod has a place to come home to.

cabin exterior

• the entrance to the hestia cabin is marked by a wide, welcoming porch with a set of double wooden doors, intricately carved with scenes of hestia and hearthfires.

• large, comfy rocking chairs and benches line the porch, providing a perfect spot for relaxing and socializing.

• the cabin is made of sturdy, warm-toned wood, giving it a rustic yet welcoming appearance.

• soft, golden lights are strung along the eaves and porch, creating a cozy glow that is especially inviting at night.

• they have hanging baskets filled with flowers and vines that add color and vibrancy to the cabin’s exterior.

• stone pathways connect the cabin to other parts of camp half-blood, with lanterns lining the paths to guide the way at night.

• the cabin's lighting, both inside and out, is designed to be soft and warm, creating a comforting and homely atmosphere.

cabin interior

• the walls are adorned with soft, earthy tones and wooden accents, creating a homey feel.

• a large, ornate fireplace sits at the heart of the cabin, always lit with a comforting fire that never goes out, providing warmth and light.

• the cabin has an open floor plan, allowing for easy movement and a sense of community among the cabin members.

• their beds are arranged in a semi-circle around the hearth, promoting a sense of unity and togetherness.

• each demigod has a personal trunk and a small, personalized nook with shelves and a pinboard for decorations and personal items.

• small altars and symbols dedicated to hestia are placed throughout the cabin, reminding the members of the goddess's presence and protection.

• fresh flowers and offerings are regularly placed on these altars, maintaining a connection to the goddess of the hearth.

cabin traditions

• every new unclaimed demigod is welcomed with a special ceremony involving a warm meal prepared by the existing members. this meal symbolizes the hearth and home that hestia represents. the new member is given a candle to light, representing their acceptance into the cabin.

• every sunday, the cabin hosts a communal meal where everyone participates in cooking. they use recipes passed down from their mortal families or create new ones together. it's a time for bonding and sharing different cultural heritages.

• they prepare care packages for demigods on quests or those who are struggling. these packages include homemade snacks, comforting items, and handwritten notes of encouragement.

divider by @plutism

[opencommunion]

"Out of over 100 civilians that Israel cold-bloodedly killed, they singled out 19 and falsely claimed they were Hamas members. Four of them were from the Jaabari family, whom I personally know—they never engaged in any political or military activities. Another was an imam, one was my neighbor from the Habib family who had a serious dispute with Hamas, and a university professor from the Kahlout family who never participated in any political work. Israel lives on lies.

We also identified two others: Abdul Aziz Al-Kafarneh, a civilian from Beit Hanoun with no ties to Hamas, and Abdul Karim Hamad, a devout man who sympathized with Hamas but never joined its ranks.

The Israeli army claims that Mounther/Montaser Daher was one of the alleged targets they killed in the massacre at the Tabi'een School this morning. In reality, Montaser was an ordinary citizen who, along with his sister, was killed by the Israeli army on Friday afternoon, a day before the massacre.

Initial checks also reveal that the first name on the Israeli army's list is Yusuf Al-Wadiya. Further investigation shows that Yusuf Al-Wadiya was killed by Israel at his home two days before the massacre.

One of the names on the list is Muhammad Hamid Al-Taif, a former school principal and a mediator in a local committee, with no ties to any political activities.

One of the names published by the Israeli army is Abdul Aziz Al-Kafarna, an elderly civilian who works in the public services sector and does not engage in any military activities. He is the Deputy Mayor of Beit Hanoun in northern Gaza.

Israel claimed that it targeted Ahmad Ihab Al-Jaabari. However, upon reviewing @/EuroMedHR records, we found that the civilian Ihab was killed by Israel on December 5, 2023, not in the Al-Tabi’in massacre."

[kleopatra45]

Jupiter in the Signs

Jupiter in astrology signifies expansion, optimism, and abundance. It influences growth, wisdom, and opportunities in various aspects of life, from personal beliefs to social interactions. Positioned in different signs and houses, Jupiter's energy fosters a broad-minded outlook and a quest for knowledge, often leading to generosity, luck, and a positive influence on one's path towards fulfillment and success.

Jupiter in Aries

Jupiter in Aries amplifies enthusiasm, courage, and a pioneering spirit. These individuals are adventurous, optimistic, and eager to explore new territories. They approach challenges with confidence and may excel in leadership roles where quick decision-making and initiative are valued. Their optimism and enthusiasm often inspire others to take action and embrace new opportunities.

Jupiter in Taurus

Jupiter in Taurus enhances stability, practicality, and a strong sense of values. These individuals seek growth through material security and enjoy the pleasures of life, such as good food, comfort, and luxury. They are patient, persistent, and have a knack for building wealth and resources over time. Their generosity extends to their loved ones and they often find fulfillment through creating a stable and harmonious environment.

Jupiter in Gemini

Jupiter in Gemini expands curiosity, communication skills, and versatility. These individuals are intellectually curious, always eager to learn and share knowledge with others. They excel in fields that require adaptability, such as writing, teaching, or media. Their optimism and ability to see multiple perspectives make them engaging communicators who enjoy socializing and networking

Jupiter in Cancer

Jupiter in Cancer amplifies emotional sensitivity, nurturing instincts, and a strong connection to family. These individuals find growth through emotional security and may excel in roles that involve caring for others, such as parenting or caregiving professions. They have a deep appreciation for traditions and may find fulfillment in creating a loving and supportive home environment.

Jupiter in Leo

Jupiter in Leo enhances creativity, self-expression, and a love for drama and attention. These individuals have a generous and charismatic personality that naturally attracts others. They thrive in creative pursuits, leadership roles, and any endeavor that allows them to shine and be recognized for their talents. Their optimism and enthusiasm inspire confidence and loyalty in those around them.

Jupiter in Virgo

Jupiter in Virgo expands analytical skills, attention to detail, and a desire for practical improvements. These individuals seek growth through service to others and excel in professions that require precision and efficiency, such as healthcare, editing, or research. They have a keen eye for quality and may find fulfillment in helping others achieve their goals through practical advice and support.

Jupiter in Libra

Jupiter in Libra amplifies diplomacy, harmony, and a love for justice and fairness. These individuals seek growth through partnerships and relationships, valuing cooperation and balance in all aspects of life. They excel in roles that require negotiation, mediation, or counseling, as they have a natural ability to see both sides of a situation and find mutually beneficial solutions.

Jupiter in Scorpio

Jupiter in Scorpio enhances intensity, depth, and a desire for transformation. These individuals seek growth through profound emotional experiences and may be drawn to psychology, occult studies, or research into the mysteries of life. They have a strong intuition and are not afraid to delve into taboo subjects or confront the darker aspects of human nature to facilitate personal and collective healing.

Jupiter in Sagittarius

Jupiter rules Sagittarius, amplifying its qualities of optimism, exploration, and philosophical wisdom. These individuals are adventurous, enthusiastic, and always seeking to expand their horizons through travel, higher education, or spiritual pursuits. They have a strong sense of ethics and may excel in roles that involve teaching, preaching, or promoting cultural exchange and understanding.

Jupiter in Capricorn

Jupiter in Capricorn enhances ambition, discipline, and a practical approach to achieving goals. These individuals seek growth through hard work, perseverance, and building a solid reputation in their chosen field. They excel in leadership roles, business ventures, or any endeavor that requires long-term planning and strategic thinking. Their optimism is grounded in realistic expectations and a strong sense of responsibility.

Jupiter in Aquarius

Jupiter in Aquarius amplifies innovation, humanitarian ideals, and a desire for social change. These individuals seek growth through progressive ideas, group activities, and technological advancements. They excel in fields related to science, technology, or community organizing, as they have a visionary outlook and a knack for inspiring others to embrace new possibilities for the future.

Jupiter in Pisces

Jupiter in Pisces enhances compassion, imagination, and a spiritual connection to the universe. These individuals seek growth through creativity, intuition, and mystical experiences. They have a deep empathy for others and may excel in roles that involve healing, art, music, or spiritual guidance. Their optimism is rooted in a belief in the interconnectedness of all beings and a desire to bring healing and harmony to the world.

©️kleopatra45