#Gil is very devoted of course

[softquietsteadylove]

I love the way you can describe Thenamesh. How you find the right word to describe anything. It’s very poetic. Maybe you can use your talent and write something beautiful?

How Thena sees Gil? What she thinks when she is looking into his eyes, sees his smile? How he is tall and has these muscles but is very very gentle with anything fragile. How he is utterly gentle and soft with her?

Just her perspective of him. Something beautiful, soft and sweet.

Im looking forward for more story’s of you ❤️

Warmth

There are a few things that can come to mind when looking at the Strongest Eternal, but the first and foremost should be warmth. He radiates it, embodies it, effuses it. And it spreads to those around him, encouraging them to bask in such qualities as his warmth and his humour and his utter kindness.

When she looks at him, something stirs within her mind. it's hard to explain, and the Warrior Eternal is not exactly one confounded by her own thoughts often. But looking at him pulls something from deep within her. It lies dormant, under her unconscious thought when she doesn't need it. But how she loves that indescribable feeling.

From the moment their eyes met in deep space, to when her hand slipped into his when they first touched down on the planet, something about him makes her feel at ease.

The nerves in her body calm, the thoughts in her head quiet. He stills her like a ripple stills the water in its wake. She gives him her hand and his warmth washes over her. It loosens her, softens her jagged edges. She tucks her elbow in, bringing herself closer to him by her own volition. Because the choice to be closer to him is an easy one.

She watches him across from her, through the flames of revelry. Deviants have been slain and celebration is in order. She is not one for it, but he is. And if he is there, then she will not be far. Not unless it's to protect that smile of his--the warmth he carries preciously without even realising it.

"Come and have a drink with me."

Cold and hard, just like her. "No."

Not all of them are. Sersi is soft and warm, Makkari is bright and warm. Kingo is a little too bright, if anything. But none of them are warm like he is.

He turns and looks at her, bathed in Babylonian sun. His hair moves in the wind, soft and almost fluffy on the top of his head. It catches the light and holds it with its dark colour. His skin glows from the work he's doing. He waves.

His eyes are warm, and so gentle. Their colour is brown, but Thena will never have the words to describe how they are so much more than that. They are warm soup he makes for her when it's raining, or tea he brews when she can't sleep. They are the last embers of a fire she keeps stoked so he won't be cold after dozing off in the middle of watch duty. They are the first hints of sunlight she glimpses on his skin before going back to sleep, content with just the sight of him.

"Hey," he greets her plainly and simply. The one word has so, so many others behind it--so much that exists between them.

"Hey," she smiles back at him, content as his smile pulls up to one side while he tries to guess her thoughts. She lets him, because she gets to look at him for longer.

His eyes flutter as she reaches up to brush away a bead or two of sweat. He has black eyelashes, which make her envious because they get to touch his cheeks whenever they please.

"What have you been up to?" he asks lightly, his hand hovering closer, lingering in a way that would get anyone else killed.

She allows it, because it's easier than giving in and leaning all the way into it. "Watch."

He nods, content with her one word, because he knows she has chosen it just for him.

"You?" she asks, and this too is more than anyone else would get.

"Helping patch up the hole," he points to the last point of impact from a previous fight. It was a good fight. "Just finished."

"Hm," she purrs, eyes travelling over him. She follows every move of his shoulders, every breath that expands his chest under his armour, ever twitch in his arms after a hard day's work.

Those arms can rip a Deviant's head clean off. They are also made to fit around her in embraces that can only be described as painfully gentle.

"Hungry?" he asks, because he's always so concerned with feeding her.

She lets his hand come to the small of her back, his palm spreading against it. She knows every bend of muscle, every edge of bone, every ridge in the tips of his fingers. "What are you making?"

His smile puts the sun to shame. "Anything you want."

She lets out a fraction of a laugh, but he brightens as if she has promised him riches beyond compare. He always presents himself as living to hear even the smallest laugh from her. That is how she feels about his smile.

"Honey buns?" he suggests, and is rewarded with a full, bright smile, her lips pulling back from her teeth.

His eyes trail over them. Just like she knows every muscle on his body, he knows every bend and line in her lips. "I'll take that as a yes."

She keeps her eyes on him as they walk. She has no choice; he's too beautiful to look away. His hand moves and soon his arm is looped around her, as easily and lazily as he might lean against something.

She leans against him--leans into it.

How she loves him.

[avampyone]

Prompt #25: Aesthete

Characters: Arazul and Cecilia De'fleur, mention of Jacques

Synopsis: The siblings speak of art and eternity.

Setting: Sharlayan, Archon's design.

Warning - None.

-----------------------

The brightness of the sun blazing overhead gave cause to relief Sharalyan of the icy chill and any remaining patches of snow that dusted the grass. Despite the wonderful weather, Dr Arazul would have been content to remain locked away in his study when he found a new sort of focus to center his thoughts upon.

In several distillation experiments, he finally processed alcohol that should boost the drinker’s immune system and help to prevent oncoming illness. Yet, the doctor pondered if there was a way to strengthen the effects and see how much medicine could be brought to its highest potential.

Arazul’s plans were soon thwarted by an unexpected visit by his sister, Cecilia, who thoughtfully packed him breakfast and informed him since their father and mother were away that he would be accompanying her with her shopping to find a new dress for the upcoming Studium ball. In truth, he recognized he needed a small break from his research and made no complaints to the diversion.

A few hours later after visiting several boutiques, Arazul initially thought of carrying all her packages home but realized there were far too many to do so and opted to have them sent back. He himself took the opportunity to buy a new coat or two. On the way back, he noticed that it happened to be the first opening of the Art club’s new exhibition for the season. Naturally, Cecilia’s expression remained thoroughly puzzled by him of all people to make such a suggestion.

The heart of the truth was that Arazul was a devoted lover of art even if he would never admit it out loud. Nor would he admit any details of him making frequent visits here when time afforded him such a luxury. Artists were not so very different from himself he found – continuously working to perfect their craft and rather passionate.

At the entrance, Arazul passed the professor staffing the table at the front a small pouch of gil for the admission fee to go inside. They both walked slowly side by side with Cecilia pointing now and then usually at an abstract picture of a moogle and other such creatures that caught her eye.

He paused to stare with hooded eyes at one particular painting that outlined the evening sun slowly setting beyond the sea’s horizon. This was all painted in various hues of red that traveled down ultimately into the waving crimson sea below.

Noting the locks of gold a few shades darker than his own from the corner of his eye, the doctor thought to turn away as if to show no interest but Cecilia was too perceptive for that, “Oh! Is this one your favorite, brother? To think of it, your jackets are all various shades of red too. Surprising you do not choose something more austere – like our father prefers to wear.”

“Are you serious...? Our father dresses more modestly than even a priest would. He would think even a single glance at a piece of art to be a waste of precious time. Considering that, it would be in our best interests if you told them nothing of our visit here today.” Arazul’s tone lowered to the end like he wished no one to hear. Their father had many friends around after all.

Cecilia lifted her hand to her lips to cover her soft chuckle and nodded all too happily at the thought, “Of course! You know he scolded me right before they left on their journey for buying a treat at the market. Hmm, I guess that would be why you kept your fondness for art a secret ..What do you like about it?” Her eyes that were a deep emerald green like their mother’s own glanced between him and the painting in pure curiosity.

Arazul glanced down from the painting, his hand slowly curling into a fist at his side in the barest hint of anxiety – he had never had to explain this before since no one had ever asked him, “For me, art is the only thing that possesses a sense of longevity on this star.”

His gloved hands beckoned out to the pieces on display, all of them a moment set forever in time, “All of these pieces will continue to exist long after all of us are gone, you know? Their creators leaving a piece of themselves – their vision as if immortalizing themselves in their creations…”

With a tilt to her head, Cecilia hummed thoughtfully before she suddenly entwined her arms about the many books-likely romance novels against her chest with a dreamy giggle, “That is where you are wrong, brother! I’ve read fables about them. Beautiful ashkin roaming the night, living for an eternity! Ahh, just imagine it- A lovely count or countess inviting you to their castle to greet with a bouquet of roses and dancing!” Her voice peaked with a little squeal and clap of her hands at the thought of the romantic gesture.

Arazul barked out a bit of laughter, shaking his head at his sister. It was clear she was reading some new material, “Quite imaginative, Cecilia. If they are anything like the stories I’ve read, they would rather dine on our necks than aim any of their ill-conceived romantic notions at us. If they exist at all...” He waved his hand dismissively when he began to turn to make his way to the next painting to view.

“Arazul! Come now, why must you ruin everything...”

[thecorycrow]

ROP OC Designs & Concepts

Because no one stopped me. Please don’t take it too seriously. Characters under the cut.

Naneth: Mother of Uruks

The idea was born after I learned about Adar; in my head he was something like the Adam of the Uruk, so I made him an Eve

She’s a second generation elf from the ones who awoke at Cuiviénen; her given name was Êluin (“of the stars“)

She`s an Avari

Has white freckles

She and her brother (her younger twin) are blessed by Eru Iluvátar himself

She was one of the 13 Moriondor - Morgoth especially wanted her, because he wanted to destroy someone Eru himself blessed

Her and Adar were held together; the night before he was brought to that nameless peak he had told her his name

She did not accept Sauron‘s or Morgoth‘s offerings, which didn’t matter because Morgoth turned her into an Uruk regardless

She accepted her fate and stayed with Adar, making his goals (a home for their “children“) her own

The Uruk called her “Moredhel“ (Dark Elf), before they gave her the name Naneth

She almost lost her left eye in capture and when she turned the darkness corrupted it, yet gave her her sight back somewhat

Núincýron: High Advisor of High King Gil Galad

The younger twin of Naneth/Êluin

Has white freckles

His given name is Núindûel (“under the black sky“) which he changed later to his current name, which means “under the new moon“

Before he became an advisor of Gil Galad, he worked in the library of Lindon, where he soon became Head Librarian

He does not like fighting, but is pretty good with bow and arrow (practice calms his mind)

He wears blue as a tribute to his sister, who he hopes she died because he can only feel pain through their strong bond

Workaholic

Very good friend of the King

Has the gift of foresight

Míthanor: Captain of the Guard in Eregion/Personal Guard of Celebrimbor

Celebrimbor is my favourite, so obviously he got an OC at his side too

He personally chose her as his guard

The red markings in her face are makeup

He calls her “Ruin“ (red flame)

Míthanor means “to kiss the sun“

Her grandmother was a smith and worked alongside Fëanor

When Fëanor made the Silmaril her grandmother had been pregnant with Ruin‘s mother (also a smith later), who got influenced by the magic of the Silmaril which accumulated and was inherited by Ruin (I know the Silmaril don’t give their owners powers but let me have this)

Thanks to this she is unnaturally resistant to heat, her sometimes look like flames and she can’t be easily swayed by the darkness

She followed the path of her father, however, and became a soldier rather than a smith

She takes her duty very seriously and is completely devoted to her lord and the city

She‘d follow her lord to the Halls of Mandos without hesitation

Lórëlen: Herald of Queen Varda

Her name means “dream of the stars“

She is a Maia and the Herald of Queen Varda

She calls herself the voice of the stars

She‘s my oracle (quite the strong foresight)

Sticks her nose in everyone’s business, who she knows the fate of

“Fate is water in a river, you can change it`s course.“

“But where death waits, death takes.“ (Meaning you can save one but another takes their place)

She wanders far and wide but always returns to those she holds dear

Elrond gave her the name “Ránëlen“ (Wandering Star)

She loves often and freely

She also has white freckles

She waltzed into Adar‘s camp once because she was curious

The Uruks call her bright thing

She knew Sauron as Mairon, when he was still a student of Aulë

She prays in form of playing songs on a flute/ocarina/etc

Bonus:

Swapped Fate AU: where Núindûel got caught by Morgoth and Êluin changed her name to Elrhûn (“East Star“) and became a Commander of Gil Galad‘s soldiers.

[ffredmujkic]

wonderfully bizarre by bendigo fletcher is such a fish and chips song.

"And if I were to win for you the skin of a timbered snake - Would you consider me your comfort in danger?" it shows so much of gillions thinking that he could only be loved if hes earned it if hes able to show himself as someone useful.

"you could wear me like a ring" something something abt gil being status symbol. (the whole line in his, if u give fish a family, abt being adored but alone) going back to had habits (even if aware of their harm)

"You'd be the mercy under my cruelty- My revelation, bloodshed free" gillion's journery through out the campaign, his biggest change is being kinder. gentler. early campaign gil always chose violence, he saw that the only responsible action to take against a villian was to cut off their head. hes soften so much over the campaign. hes always been caring yet through his friendships with chip (and jay this just isnt abt them) he learns different methods to handling problems.

"Do you wanna get married at the Cherokee Cemetery?" he just wants to get married. hes unlearned at lot a LOT of toxic unhealthy things. but he clearly upholds marriage as still an important and loving act. i think that while their relationship is very anarchic, gil would still love a wedding. (purely my own headcannon tho)

"Where the blue grass creeps over deep decades of devotion. Warm underneath the frost" come on.

in the context of gillion though this can be further, hes incredible loyal to the undersea though it never cared for him in return. A country that made him harsh and serious despite his real personality when allowed to relax. the frost can be a strong yet harmful loyalty to the undersea. (it reminds me of that even if im stretching) his friendship with chip and jay allowing him to feel a genuine devotion which is beneficial too him, that is reciprocated.

"We can build a home in a bush of azaleas- Dress it up in true morale paraphernalia- You'll never be alone in your bad dreams- Because together we could never be lost"

gillion was taken away from his family at an early age. chip was an orphan with no memory of even his name, to than get his adopted family ripped away from him. his attempts to form a new one forcing him into a gang. the two of them have been alone for a very very long time with no family or even friends, no home of their own. gillion constantly failed in his training. chip is implied to have done things he didnt always want to do to make price happy. yet despite earlier bumps in the relationship, them clashing each disagreement helps to deepen their bond as they figure out whats okay with with each other. and they really are never alone after finding each other

"your eyes prescribe a meaning for everything I do. I even find myself believing most of the words I say as true" the most impactful moment for chip what enable him to grow into the person he becomes over the course of the campaign is the fight in epsiode 15. it forced chip to address his actions have hurt hurt someone he was growing to care abt. chip said he wouldn't lie to gil anymore and he meant it. theres times where he tries to lie and cuts himself off. they built a home with trust and communication

"We can build a home in a bush of azaleas" since the line is repeating ill only say, they feel so comfortable around each other. all three captains are each others home. but especially chip and gil the way they are always seeking each other, their friend's name always on the tip of their toungue.

"We can be defined by the things we want"

a major theme in the show (or at least grizzly is trying to make it into one) is desire. gillion while having a lot of autonomy, driving a lot of the plot. he is also honor bound to a internal law where he must always protect others. gillion never acts out of a true selflessness, his actions are born from being taught that this is simply how he should operate. Because he is inherently worthless than all those around him, he has been assigned to protect. Never does gil think abt himseld if it concerns another life. gillion must be selfless, he is never allowed to want for himself. which is wonderfully contrasted by chip who is always seen as a selfish bastard despite not behaving like it in a while.

"I'll be a life full of free haircuts from the one that I love" chip in his happiet dream imagines himself with all his crew and arlin hanging out happily on the albatross. chip always pictures himself doing this pirate thing forever, but he is only 19. and with the trauma that its brought him, the constant risking your life. i think its fair to say that what he actually wants is just a simple life with his friends

[fuckingfinwions]

Elrond and Elros were lovers, and that's the founding of Numenor's royal family.

Elrond brings this up casually with Celebrian a couple years after they marry and is surprised she's so upset. She already knew that he'd had others lovers but promised he wasn't married and he was over all of them, what's the big deal?

Elrond and Elros were everything to each other. They had to be, with their family gone, their captors who raised them gone, their home city sacked, their childhood prison abandoned, the land they grew up in crumbling into the sea. They loved each other in every way, and relied on each other utterly.

But they knew it couldn't last. Elros wanted to venture beyond the very bounds of the world, while Elrond wished to learn everything he could about Arda no matter how many ages it took. Elros chose the fate of Men, and Elrond the fate of Elves, and in a few decades or centuries they would be sundered forever. Indeed they would be parted even sooner, as Elros was now a king of Men, and would leave to the Isle of the Gift to found his kingdom once things were prepared.

Elrond wasn't going to let him go alone though. Sure, Elros would have soldiers and servants and subjects, but no family. (Elrond at least would have cousins, Celebrimbor and Galadriel and Gil-Galad and Celeborn, even if no closer kin.) Elros needed someone who loved him unconditionally, who was devoted to him entirely, who understood the burden of royalty.

Elrond bore their first son. He named the boy Vardamir, as perhaps there were enough El- names in the family for now, but it was still good to honor the stars and their lady.

Elros took the next turn being pregnant, letting Elrond smooth ruffled feathers at Gil-Galad's court. They told no one, of course, who had gotten Elrond with child, as no one would ever understand. But the pregnancy and birth had been hard to disguise, and so too it was strange to all that the babe would be raised by his "uncle". Elrond explained that the child seemed like a Man, and so would have greater joy in a Mannish kingdom, and none but Elros knew enough to contradict him.

Tindomiel had just begun the flower of her maidenhood when Elrond bore the twins' third child. He spun the same tale about a mortal lover who didn't wish to be named, and a certainty that the child was mortal. No one quite knew how Peredhel inherited, including Elrond and Elros, but having a Man as another parent seemed plausible enough. And Elrond's repeated unwed pregnancies were scandalous and unconventional, but naming the boy Manwendil seemed appropriately pious. Elrond told his brother that he had no motherly foresight, only good wishes. But perhaps Manwendil and Vardamir would love each other as well as their namesakes; perhaps Elrond and Elros's love for each other would be reflected in their sons.

Vardamir was tall and strong with a full beard when he helped his king and father onto the ship that would take them to Numenor. Normally Elros was a capable sailor, but Vardamir worried for him, already halfway along in his pregnancy. It seemed fitting, for the King to be the first one to give birth in their new homeland, the youngest child of the royal family as the first native of Numenor. Truly, Atanalcar was evidence of the glory of Men.

[awkwardkindatries]

Tolkien Holiday Event Day Four

Gil-Galad/Reader: Eggnog

Gil-Galad has lived a very long life, and in this period, he has had the great pleasure of sampling many things the world has to offer. He was never one to snub his nose at anything and was always willing to try something once. It was his personal philosophy to keep an open mind to the world around him. This included the new thing that you have turned him onto lately. All month you have been picking up and preparing ingredients for the holidays, a complete list of baked goods and traditional treats on your docket to share with your loved ones. This, of course, included him.

He loved listening to you prattle on about your passion for this time of year. Your enthusiasm was infectious as it quickly drew him into helping you. You devoted plenty of your time teaching the high king how precisely he should go about these things. Patiently showing him the proper techniques and properly scolding him when he took it upon himself to make a liberal adjustment to your recipes.

He enjoyed these moments with you, trapped in the small confines of your kitchen, shrouded in the warm smells of sugar and spices as he anticipated every new first bite.

The newest Food to pique his interest had an odd name, “Eggnog,” Upon asking what exactly that was, he was incredibly interested in finding out that it was a thick, spiced beverage. However, he wasn’t exactly thrilled at the idea of having to wait at least three weeks to try the newest fruits of your labor. Instead, he easily filled this time between kingly duties, personal hobbies, and reserved time with you.

It came and went quickly enough, slowly, but it came nonetheless. Soon enough, it was time to try the coveted nog. As you pulled the sealed glass jar out from the chilled storage pantry below, he could help but notice just how frosty the winter air had kept the container, a light frost coating the glass. Grabbing a ladle, you divided out a small severing into two small glasses, giving them a final touch of freshly grated cinnamon to the tops before passing him one. Picking the glass up, he gave it a light swirl, noting just how much the mixture had thickened as it left a defined trail along the glass as it sloshed around.

Bringing it to his lips, he took a confident mouthful, taking a moment to savor the sweet dessert drink before swallowing. Then, turning to you, he waited as you finished your first sip before asking if you start another batch, as he was sure this one wouldn't last much longer.

[ruckusfiddlesticks]

Ruckus and Religion (Pt 1 of..???)

GreenEyedSage @GreenEyedSage Jul 25

Does your OC take the Twelve seriously? Are they a follower? Whats their take on them?

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Ruckus is fairly folk-superstitious, as he picks up/puts down other 'little things', customs people do around Eorzea to invoke the Twelve. He doesn't swear but he does sometimes attribute things happening to their respective gods, even when he for the most part just plays around with the vague concepts of them. He does like hearing tales of the Eorzean saints, their folk-hero status and virtues, but wouldn't call himself 'religiously devout'.

While he claims he has no patience for meditation, prayer or listening to Swaenhylt's preaching, does on occasion perform privately meaningful rites to Oschon, Azemya & Nald'Thal.

Last year he accompanied Mimita Mita to Thal's Respite and The Red Labyrinth and on her annual pilgrimages, mostly out of curiousity and because he feels protective of her. He found himself feeling wildly out of place and uncomfortable in the stillness and gravity, beside her solemn devotionals. A part of this is that he's been very... deliberately avoidant, of mourning, making levity of dour funerary faces where he can.

He made an offering at the latter out of efforts to try and seem respectful and engaged, beside her, and recieved a blessing (in the form of Cactuar Cantina's land deed) fairly soon thereafter.

It's difficult to be raised in Drybone and *not* have some kind of opinion about the Traders. As a boy at the Bazaar, he heard them called upon during nearly every transaction, a blessing of prosperity but also as an affirmation of fair exchanges, or a pithy sympathy to acknowledge someone's loss.

So in many ways Nald'Thal is...culturally obligatory, and the Church of Adama Landama's role in post-Calamital recovery meant that a lot of burial rites were performed Right There and in a big hurry, in the midst of the land's upheaval, a regional community displaced by the chaos tethering together for survival in a military encampment, and his self-denied teenaged grief over losing both parents.

(In the middle of this, of course, there was a minor fateful Ruckus over a the retrieval of moonshine cache.)

So Thal is particularly tied in to his experience of that time, and the Church's lead in soothing and serving the community, but mostly, primarily, getting a surplus of paupers and soldiers under the dirt and (hopefully) getting their souls up on the scales, before they turned to ashkin.

Nothing else could make of a young taco seller, without bodies of his own kin turned up to bury, and quickly running short on gil, more anxiously aware of his place in the world. And while that could make a young man ambitious, it mostly made him act out comically for awhile.

[thefreelanceangel]

💌 - do you enjoy one night stands/having fuckbuddies? (Any)

C'allie's slacked off the one-night stands, but she definitely still has fuck buddies. Or, as she calls Rylen, "side pieces." (He gets a step above fuck buddy since he's her boyfriend now.) And most of the Kyhos follow suit as they mature--settling into their primary and secondary relationships while maintaining an open door for further possibilities.

Esti, being that weird off-shoot Kyho, neither enjoys one-night stands nor is emotionally healthy enough to handle a fuck buddy. It's... really for the best.

It just does not happen with Anna.

Nor does it happen with Summer, who is devoted to her One True Love and wouldn't think to bed anyone but him.

Carmen's had a few casual relationships, a couple of one-night stands, and she does keep in touch with one woman from Radz-at-Han who spends the night once in a while. If she ever gets a girlfriend, obviously that'd be something they'd discuss.

Tara's entire life is a one-night stand.

Renaux prefers one-night stands over fuck buddies, simply because they're easier and take less of his time. When he decides to pursue a woman for more than that, it's extremely unhealthy, turns out badly for her, and he drops her anyway. He wants more than just an occasional roll in the sheets with Capricia, but ... it's just not happening.

It's never crossed Solange's mind. Perhaps a one-night stand... once? Just to see what it's like? But she'd have to feel a pretty potent attraction for it to be a possibility.

Miss Bug's been married three times and she's in her early sixties, she is done with that nonsense, thank you very much. Her greatest joy in bed is being able to take up the entire thing and sleep in whatever position she pleases.

Hitomi's moved away from offering herself for one-time clients, but she does have a few regulars who are essentially fuck buddies. And C'allie, of course.

If Leti-Mao can get the gil she needs put together, she'll never have to deal with a one-night stand or a "fuck buddy" again in her life and she is so excited for that day to come. Maybe when she's had a couple of years to settle, she'll find herself a nice man who doesn't mind being on a leash.

All Capricia has are one-night stands. No one really tolerates her acidic tongue long enough to become a fuck buddy, and the one man who was (legitimately) deranged enough to meet her at her own level is now dead.

[riverssongs13]

I was wondering where you were, and when you did show up, you did so in a fashion that made me appreciate more just how beautiful of a human being you are.

I should like to imagine you already had something else planned out to say to the usual audience, something you've previously thought of, planned for, filmed, executed, and would say et voila, here you go, first pick of the day, let's talk about this and that. But given the current circumstances, you chose instead to hold discourse over distractions. And distract us it did, at the very least me and my other dear friend who'd be spending the day playing Sims, bless her heart.

I have been wondering, and quite worried to be perfectly honest, how all this would affect the world you and my friend live in. Who wouldn't be, when even I who reside thousands of miles away will feel the repercussions of this blunder. This may be one of the few times I am utterly thankful you live farther north. Maybe the shitshow won't be as intense in Montreal or Toronto or wherever life sweeps you to.

And so with the question of distracting books and shows my dear friend said, Le Petit Prince. Of course, great idea, I haven't read it in a million years, so read it tonight I will, why not. Immediately this timeless piece of art and wisdom brings me back to you.

I would like to think I do remember the essential matters. They're the ones that stick with me in the first place. You with your slow, hypnotising way of speaking, staring at me with your huge, clear blue eyes, bright with the light of the Two Trees of Valinor. Your favourite game this obscure title that I, shamefully, have forgotten, but I remember you saying it had you on a chokehold and you haven't played anything that lives up to the quality of that one (although again I would suggest please please please try Baldur's Gate 3). I may not know if you collect butterflies or anything else, but I know you are a bastion of knowledge, and you collect and wield words -- you are a wordsmith through and through.

You are also a true Tolkien scholar, no matter how much your imposter syndrome tells you otherwise. I know how much faith and devotion you have for Gil-Galad, and I know you have fulfilled your dreams of becoming a ring maker in the Second Age of Eregion, and I know that you are Annatar. The gift giver. And you have gifted me with your existence.

So many other things I know, essential and not, and there are still so many things I wish to know. I've accidentally found some extremely personal things but these are inconsequential, to be honest. I'd rather know of things you keep deep inside -- your thoughts, your desires, your aspirations, your ambitions. I just want to know every single thing that which you deem important.

One could only hope to know about these things within their lifetime, but I'm happy with hoping. I'm happy with the daydreams and the obsessions and the delusions. I'm happy to be the sole audience member cheering you on, or the one of millions, lost to the crowds that are regaled with your magnificence. I'm happy to imagine living within the dream I dreamt, all those nights past, of me existing within the same space as you, when you told me you wanted to show me your temple of books.

How apt, dreaming of you showing me that. A temple of books. Perfect, even in my dreams. For you are Dorian, the God of Literature.

[meowww-ffxiv]

Back in the days when Tataru was still doing what Alphinaud wanted her to do in order to keep fundings for the Crystal Braves, she quietly confessed her doubts to Maedwyn.

He thought she found something that confirmed his worst fear that the donations were made by a known force trying to gain control of the militia.

But Tataru instead told him that she wanted there to be an untouchable amount of savings in case Alphinaud fucking bankrupted them.

Maedwyn: Man... The most realistic problems are always the most mundane ones. Very well.

Since Tataru didn't want to embezzle or appropriate current funds of the Crystal Braves, she and Maedwyn went through the untouched assets to see what could be done. They quickly found the surplus of Alphinaud minions that didn't sell because well of course it didn't.

So Maedwyn went and wrangled favors from new artisans and menders looking for a quick buck and hired them to dismantle all of the parts and sort them. Those parts were then sold by the kilogram to Garlond Ironworks and in total they got about 4-5 millions back. Because Cid was nice and would take heat from Jessie to buy scraps from them at a premium.

Meanwhile the monthly budget for the Crystal Braves was about 2 mil already. And that was just baseline. Alphinaud's flies of fancy for this or that spending would usually add on another 700k.

Maedwyn poured Tataru another shot of rum.

Tataru: Gosh, I thought we would just proportionally scale up from the Scions' month-to-month spending. Why are the Crystal Braves three times as expensive as we were? I know they're bigger, but still.

Maedwyn: That is because Minfilia does not expend everything from simple travel fees to the six thousand gils a young man spends on a statuette to send home to his mother. Also, Scions stipends aren't as large as Brave stipends.

But Tataru didn't want to be the one lecturing the Young Master about how he should not treat company funds as his own pocket money. So Maedwyn had to do it. Alphinaud was SO HUFFY to hear, even though he stopped.

Or he stopped spending as much money on his own things. He wouldn't listen to Maedwyn about the humongous stipends. He was literally buying Crystal Braves' loyalty with that gold, but it was donated gold. And then it went right back to Maedwyn's greatest fear.

Maedwyn was ready to think he was really just paranoid and that Eorzea didn't work like that.

Here comes Lolorito with a guillotine though.

--This was to say less about Alphinaud's cluelessness about the very subject he said he was good at (politics), but rather Maedwyn's almost incontrollable devotion to the next rich kid who was setting himself up for a long fall with the arrogance granted only by innocence and inexperience.

He HAD to protect this kid. He HAD to make sure he was okay. He couldn't keep an eye on his sister because Alisaie literally vanished into the ether, although Maedwyn heard of her now and again. But Alphinaud? Alphinaud was right in front of him and Maedwyn simultaneously wanted to shake him and wanted him to come out of this better than the other times Maedwyn had seen something similar go down in his long life of nobility-involvement.

[the-classy-villainess]

Deceiver

Dark!Halbrand (Sauron) x Elf!reader

Summary: The daughter of Gil-galad is seduced.

Words: 2.4k

Warnings: Dub-con/coercion + non-con. Toxic relationship. Possessiveness. Allusions to abduction. Mind & dream manipulation/control. Smut – unprotected p in v. Loss of virginity for both parties (trying to stay true to elf!reader, so sex = marriage). Minors DNI! 18+

Requested by Anon: “reader is the daughter of Gil Galad and Sauron seduces her with his beautiful words, but then Galadriel discovers Halbrand’s true identity and he becomes all dark, claiming reader and taking her with him to Mordor. Smut.”

I feel like I need to stress this because I’ve never posted smut before (especially for such a dark character). Please mind the warnings. If any of the things listed trigger you, don’t read any further. Halbrand is manipulative in this fic, to the point where the ‘reader’ cannot wholly differentiate their own thoughts from his. The sex is not consensual.

When he’d come to your chambers that afternoon you’d felt something had changed. There was a strange urgency in him, an urgency that saw him mutter only a quick greeting before his lips were on yours.

You welcomed his kisses, melted into them even, but his hands had never wandered so freely, and you couldn’t help but wonder just what had gotten into him when his fingers slowly rucked up your skirts and stroked the bare skin of your thigh.

“Halbrand? We can’t,” you gasped between kisses. “Not without my father’s blessing.”

He groaned into your mouth and clutched you that much tighter.

Even if you weren’t the High King’s only heir, it was unlikely that your father would bless the union of a man and elleth; not when such a union would bring only death and despair. Halbrand knew this as well as you did – it had frustrated him like nothing else.

“I care little for his blessing,” he panted, drawing away at long last to press his forehead against yours. “Ours is a fate that cannot be denied by any man, elf, or dwarf. Why else would we have been brought together if not for the work of some higher power – if not for the will of Ilúvatar himself?”

It was a lovely notion, a romantic one, that you had been brought together for a purpose – some greater fate like Beren and Lúthien or Idril and Tuor. You doubted either of you would have so great a part to play in the history of Middle Earth as they had, but your love could be just as special, just as boundless, if you allowed it to be.

“Let me have you,” he continued. “All of you, and no one will ever be able to refute our love – not even your father.”

“You do not know what you are asking of me,” you insisted, drawing back to meet his eye. “There are traditions – the feast, the rings, the blessings…”

“All of which can be forgone—”

“Only in times of war.”

He took your hands into his own and gazed at you imploringly. “Do you love me?”

You sighed. It was a question he asked more frequently now, as if he didn’t truly believe it when you told him as much, and it made your heart ache to think he doubted your devotion. You would do anything to prove it to him.

“I do. Of course I do. How could I not?”

He smiled, trailing his knuckles gently down your cheek.

“Then you know as well as I do, that you will never love another. Nor will I, for that matter.”

You will never love another. Only him. This crafty mortal man who had swept into Eregion with naught but the bloodied rags on his back and a charming smile on his face. He’d looked more a vagrant than a King the first time you’d seen him, but his quick tongue and quicker mind hinted at a greater knowledge gathered through life and lore, and you’d been helpless to resist him.

His arms had been safe, his lips had been soft, and his words had given you hope, the likes of which you hadn’t felt for centuries.

Those very same arms encircled your waist and drew you back into his embrace. Your head lolled forward onto his shoulder, and he pressed a lingering kiss to your temple.

“I would give you the world if you asked it of me. I’d gather you the greatest of armies, build you the tallest of towers. I’d fashion you the finest of rings, one fit for a Queen…” he trailed off softly, teasingly, and it brought a small smile to your face. “If only you would have me.”

You looked up into his eyes and splayed your hands over his chest, desperate to feel the steady thump of the heart beneath. One day it would beat no more, and neither would your own, for you would not remain in Middle Earth without him. You didn’t want towers, or armies, or rings. You wanted him, for however long you could have him, be it days or decades. He was right.

I will never love another, you agreed. What did old traditions matter?

“All right.”

He exhaled a slow, shaky breath that you felt reverberate in your palms, and his eyes, those lovely, mischievous eyes sparkled beneath his raised brow.

“Yes?”

“Yes,” you laughed.

The word had barely left you lips before he caught you in a kiss, fiery and consuming and desperate in a way his kisses had never before been. You’d always known him to be strong, but his hold on you – the arm wound around your waist and the palm cupping the back of your neck – felt unbreakable in that moment. As if he’d never let you go.

“You’ve no idea what this means to me,” he murmured against your lips. “What this will mean for us – together, you and I, King and Queen, we will rule Lindon and the Southlands. We will unite all of Middle Earth under one banner.”

Your brow furrowed at his words, at how out of place they sounded, as if they were part of another conversation altogether. Something is wrong, you thought.

Tell him you love him, more than anything.

“I love you, Halbrand. More than anything.”  

He shot you a slow smile, and his hold on you tightened. “I know you do, dove. I know you do.”

----------

No, you thought dazedly, it had not happened that way.

You loved him, you wanted him; you still do, you always will, a voice whispered back. There was something alluring in that voice, something persuasive, that made you think that perhaps it was right.

Then your surroundings shifted; day faded to night, and your back pressed firmly into the mattress of your old bed as he hovered over you, bare from the waist up.

His lips were on your neck, his hand buried inside your underthings – buried inside you. A sudden pleasure flooded your mind, an unnatural desire that barely felt like your own. You begged him to touch you, remember? You begged. You trembled with each pump of his fingers until your back arched, your walls fluttered, and you fell apart in his hold.

He withdrew wordlessly, and through the haze of pleasure you heard the rattle of his belt buckle and the rustle of fabric. Would you accept this man into your body? He seemed to think so, but you couldn’t remember for the life of you how this played out, not when such heavy desire clouded your mind.

“Halbrand…” Wait, you wanted to tell him, but your lips were strangely unresponsive.

And then he was on you again; peeling your ruined underclothes down your legs. His hands, warm and gentle, rubbed soothing circles into your knees, and you held your breath as he pried them apart and settled on the mattress between them. Your thighs twitched, as if you’d wanted to close them – had I? – but he held them firmly, with only a quick squeeze of warning to dissuade you.

His thumbs caught the hem of your shift and dragged it up past your hips. He stared at your bared flesh with a look that promised ruin, a look that made you feel young and naïve for the first time in centuries. Heat rushed to your cheeks as he met your gaze and pressed a gentle kiss to your folds. Then his hands drifted higher, gliding along your waist and rucking your shift up beneath your breasts.  

“Exquisite,” he murmured against your skin, trailing kisses along your navel, over your ribs, between your breasts.

He settled atop you, his length, hot and hard and leaking, bobbed against your navel as he hiked your thigh over his hip. It was the blunt press of him against your folds that cleared the haze from your mind, and uncertainty bloomed full force in its stead. Calm yourself. You want this. You’ve always wanted this.

Yes, you thought. All your life you’d waited for one to call your own. That you had gone so long without finding your match had raised concerns – often such things were a bad omen for one’s future prospects. And here you were, body bare and open to a man you father hadn’t even met yet.

You want this.

I want this.

You love him.

I love him, you agreed.

He caught your lips in an all-consuming kiss, a distracting kiss, and swiped his length along your folds, once, twice, before finally easing it inside you. Your body was tense, walls tight against his intrusion, and you whimpered into his mouth, palms pressing against his abdomen instinctively. The illusion of calm shattered.

“Shhh…” he soothed, prying your hands away and interlacing your fingers. “I have you.”

For reasons you couldn’t explain, his words didn’t bring the comfort they usually would, and you felt a tear spill over your cheek as he pinned your hands above your head and buried his face in the crook of your neck.

“And now I’ll always have you,” he panted, breath hot and moist on your skin, as he worked you open with slow thrusts. The initial sting quickly faded and, as if sensing this, his thrusts grew faster, harder, hungrier.

You didn’t know how long you’d lain there, eyes screwed shut, as he sucked bruises into your skin and ravaged your insides, but you felt a strange sense of relief when at last he shuddered and collapsed against you.

The ache between your legs made your stomach churn. If it were the will of Ilúvatar then why did it feel so wrong?

----------

You woke with a start. Your eyes took a moment to adjust to the candlelight, and when they did, dread pooled in your stomach. It had been difficult to count the days – here in this sunless land, where the air smelled of ash and sounds were limited to those of labour and the snarling, spitting language uttered by those creatures.

You’d only seen the beasts once before, when he’d draped you in black and paraded you through camp with an arm curled possessively around your waist – a silent warning. The rest of your time had been spent inside the large grey tent that was erected in the middle of camp while works continued on a more permanent lodging…something tall and black that loomed in the distance.

How long had he kept you here? How long had you endured these invasive attacks on your mind? How long until you could no longer tell fact from falsehood while he moulded your memories into something more palatable?

“Pleasant dreams?”

Halbrand lay in bed beside you, his lean body as bare as your own, and you hated that you still thought him beautiful. The thin sheen of sweat on his skin glistened in the candlelight, a sign of his exertion, and a reminder that even in sleep you would not be free of him.

Not Halbrand, you told yourself, but a different beast altogether.

He turned onto his side, head propped on his palm – suffocatingly close – and planted a soft kiss on your lips. His free hand traced lazy circles into the skin of your navel, the gold of his wedding band glittering mockingly as you felt the first stirrings of desire. Your modesty had been long forgotten in this place; all that remained was shame.

“You are not wrong for finding pleasure in this,” he murmured, as if knowing the direction your thoughts had taken. “How could you not, when we fit so perfectly together?”

“Why?” you rasped, throat tight, and eyes glassy. “Why do you still do this?”

His jaw twitched almost imperceptibly. You asked him this every time, and every time he rebuffed you. Not this time it seemed.

“Long have I walked these shores and never have I seen so fair a sight as your body laid bare before me.” He gave your hip an appreciative squeeze. “I wanted you in ways I’d wanted no other; I still do, I always will,” he added as an afterthought, and it echoed in your ears.

You loved him, you wanted him; you still do, you always will. Another falsehood, then.

“You blame yourself – don’t,” he urged with a consoling kiss to your temple. “You can kick and claw and scream yourself hoarse, and I will continue to have you. Such is the strength of my will...such is my right as your husband.”

He took a strange kind of pleasure in reminding you of his place in your life – reminding you that you would never be free of him. He would never let you go. 

“Why me?”

He grasped your chin between his thumb and forefinger and turned your head to face him. His eyes, the very same you’d lost yourself in countless times, were fervid and near unrecognisable as he gazed down at you.

“Because I am shadow,” he whispered. “And you are light, and when I’m inside you I feel a power unlike any other.”

“Oh, come now, none of that,” he chided lightly, swiping your tears away with his thumb. “Doesn’t it please you to know I’d never known such rapture before you? It would’ve been easy enough – those mortal whores throw themselves at anything with enough coin,” he scoffed.

“But you, an elleth…a beloved Firstborn, daughter of Gil-galad, Princess of the Noldor,” he rattled off with satisfaction and pressed an open-mouthed kiss to your neck. “Your kind have only ever scorned me, hunted me. I knew you’d do the same if you ever glimpsed my true visage.”

“So I thought to come to you as Annatar. A form befitting your beauty and station,” he huffed a breathy laugh. “But you surprised me. You were so eager for this mortal man, you let him leave his marks on your skin, his seed in your womb.” You shuddered as he pressed a hand to your abdomen. He trailed his palm lower and dipped his fingers between your folds, admiring the mess he’d left there.

“And you’d let me do it all over again, wouldn’t you?” he mused, eyes darkening.

“No…” you gasped, squirming as he slipped a finger inside you.

“You would, wouldn’t you? Because you know as well as I do that despite it all, you will always love me. You will always love your husband – say it.”

It was a confronting thought, a painful thought, that in the eyes of the Eldar you were wed to this beast, bound to him for eternity. Your souls were one. Worse still was that he wasn’t entirely wrong. You wanted to hate him, wished it with your whole being, but you didn’t know how to.

“Halbrand, please!”

“Say it,” he whispered against the shell of your ear, with just enough sway to bend your will – to tear the words from you whether you wished it or not.

“I–I will always love you.”

To your relief, he withdrew, but your relief was short-lived. His lips curled smugly as he crawled over your body and nudged your thighs apart.

“I’m half tempted to discard this form, just to see if you’d love my others as freely as you love little Halbrand. But I think,” he hiked your thighs over his hips. “He’s not quite done breaking you in yet. Let’s try again, shall we?”

And once more, he dug his fingers into your body and his claws into your mind.

----------

AN: my main account wasn’t letting me post, so I posted this request here instead. The rest (which are much more tame and, in a way, more in character) will be posted on my main when I figure out what’s going on! :)

[middle-earth-mythopoeia]

Hello! I don't know if you've been asked this before, but what are your thoughts on Orodreth? Do you prefer him being the son of Finarfin or the son of Angrod? What do you think he was like as a ruler? Or as a father to Finduilas/Gil-Galad?

Hi! Thanks for the ask! :) Sorry it took me a while to get back to you!

I prefer Orodreth as the son of Angrod, since that was what Tolkien eventually settled on (even though it contradicts The Silmarillion). I just wish we had more details about his wife and his relationships with his children. So this is a really good ask!

The first thing that stands out to me about Orodreth is how much loss he experienced in a relatively short period of time. Angrod and Aegnor were killed in the Dagor Bragollach, and shortly afterward Sauron attacked Minas Tirith and Orodreth was forced to retreat to Nargothrond. (I assume that Eðellos lived with Angrod, so she most likely died in the Dagor Bragollach too. If so, then Orodreth lost both his parents at the same time.) At that point Finrod and Galadriel were his only surviving uncle and aunt (though she may have left Beleriand by this time). Then Finrod also gets killed by Sauron, leaving Orodreth to rule in his stead... Like many of the Noldor, he took on the burden of kingship while also dealing with personal grief.

In terms of how Orodreth was as a father, I think he would have been a loving parent who was very close to his children. I mostly base this on the fact that he lost so many members of his family, so I think he would have been very devoted to Gil-galad and Finduilas. In the version(s) of the story in The Lays of Beleriand, Orodreth is at first skeptical of Túrin when he comes to Nargothrond, but Finduilas speaks on his behalf and Orodreth listens to her, so he clearly valued her advice.

Also, if we assume that Gil-galad was Orodreth's son (which I do), he and Finduilas could have been with Orodreth at Minas Tirith. I don't know... it just lends a certain tragedy and weight to Gil-galad's eventual leading of the Last Alliance and his final stand against Sauron. Obviously all the Elves hated Sauron, but it's interesting to think that Gil-galad would have literally been driven from his home by Sauron when he was fairly young.

Orodreth's wife is never named and or even mentioned, which feels very conspicuous in The Lays of Beleriand because the story is more fully developed. Finduilas plays a large role; I have to assume that if Orodreth's wife had been alive she would have also played a role in the story. For this reason I have to assume that she is dead by that point in time. It would make sense, as terrible as it is to say, if she had been killed when Sauron took Minas Tirith.

One of Orodreth's best moments, I think, was when he expelled the Fëanorians from Nargothrond and didn't let his people kill them. Of course, what Celegorm and Curufin had done was terrible, and Orodreth had every reason to hate them, but I respect him for keeping the moral high ground and not letting his people become Kinslayers themselves. He should get more credit for his restraint. Given how much the Fëanorians took from him personally (they murdered his kin at Alqualondë, they made him and his family cross the Helcaraxë, they plotted to usurp Finrod and indirectly got him killed...) he showed remarkable restraint.

I think Orodreth was generally a wise ruler, the decision to listen to Túrin being the fatal exception to the rule. The fall of Nargothrond was utterly tragic, but I also can't really fault Orodreth for it, because everyone who met Túrin was ensnared in his curse somehow. Still, what's so awful about it is that the fall of Nargothrond led to the death of Finduilas. And of course, if the two of them were especially close, which I think they were, then that makes her death, which was caused by his worst error in judgement, that much more painful.

[juliemolinaz]

Ryeon really underestimated the influence she had over Joong Gil when they were married. Despite the moments where we see Joong Gil being caring towards others, he is a very black and white thinker who has difficulty seeing the grey in things without someone there to push him and challenge him to see an alternative point of view.

Joong Gil’s mother was somewhat right when she said it was Ryeon’s fault that Joong Gil became a military officer. While Ryeon didn’t force Joong Gil to do that, it was because of her that he ultimately did so. She was the one who called him out for not seeing the worth in commoners, which ultimately gave him the opportunity to see their humanity. All the events that resulted from that initial challenge was what pushed him to make the choice to become a military officer. If Joong Gil would have never met Ryeon, there’s no way that he would have joined the military.

Because Ryeon never really understood that, of course, she wouldn’t have been able to understand that the second commoners turned against her, all of Joong Gil’s loyalty towards them would have gone out the window. It makes sense why she wouldn’t think that, but I do think things would have been a lot different if she would have understood the depths of devotion Joong Gil had towards her and her opinion on things.

[spiceroll]

I know I might sound crazy but hear me out, gilmiya is actually pretty romantic conceptually.

One thing that's canonically establish about Gilgamesh and Emiya is how Gil despises Emiya's practice of creating fakes from original treasures which he also owns, calling him Faker in disdainful manner. And I guess that's it. But it always bothers me that this one thing is left unexplored between them, which is Gil's whole reasoning in attempting to release All The World's Evil to the world, to let the hell loose and allow the natural selection process run its course because he hates the current modern society for being weak and for each individual lacking value of their own.

Meanwhile Emiya is someone who, as stated by Nasu, was born in the wrong part of history. Were he born in the age where heroes were created and heroic life flourish, he would've successfully lived the way he desired as a hero. But because he was born in modern era, his heroism and altruism stood out as strange, his hardline ideals alienated him, and he was shunned for it, leading to his death. He would've been the kind of human that Gil would respect among the people of modern society, yet it never came up. And then they made Gil inexplicably 'respects' Ritsuka who lacks any meaningful writing devoted to build them up in any way resembling an actual character, let alone an interesting one, sure thing nasu

Gil (theoritically) appreciates people like Emiya who chose a hard, tumultuous, heroic life among people living in modern world he deemed as weak and seemingly live without having to embody any meaning of their own, and the whole Gilgamesh owning every treasure in the world including weapons and Emiya whittling his existence down into a sword, a tool, a weapon, it writes itself. A weapon-slash-treasure belonging to Alaya, and a king with a bold claim towards every single treasure in the world desiring that of which belongs to the world itself, that's one hell of a setup to a (probably initially a bit nonconsensual bc Gil is an inconsiderate asshole and Emiya hates him) star-crossed love story.

Oh and don't forget Emiya's parallel to Enkidu who is a self-proclaimed weapon taking an appearance of a human, and how apparently he also creates weapons as a part of his ability, which is said to be the representation of humanity's craftmanship. Though I'll have to say, I can't see Enkidu bring more interesting dynamics with Gilgamesh compared to Emiya. He's undoubtedly very important to Gil, but their interaction feels... established, for the lack of better term. They're the bestest of friends, and we know Enkidu challenges Gil and equals him in a way no one could, and his death is a huge catalyst for Gil's journey but that's all there is to it. They're so close and their bond so unbreakable it also makes them static. Regardless of the circumstances around them, they'll never change towards each other. Part of it maybe because their budding process has already gone by, it has happened in the past, any conflict that might have existed between them has been resolved. The most interesting they could've been was when Enkidu has already long since died and it's never been Enkidu to begin with.

I admit it might just be me being hyperfocused on Emiya, which I can't do anything about, but I guess it comes down to personal interest, and gilkidu isn't really a dynamics that interests me.

These are the how interesting Gilgamesh and Emiya pair could be and how they theoritically could bring the best and worst out of each other to explore their character depth which is disappointing it isn't explored anywhere it seems.... Why aren't you seeing this Nasuuuu *shake fist towards the cloud*

On the side note, I really like the idea of hedonist Gilgamesh dragging Emiya along in his lavish lifestyle, forcibly humanizing Emiya in the process. The maybe three (yes it's sad) fanfics that I found on this pairing all have this particular part, which I think is essential to this pairing for that sweet sweet payoff of watching Emiya struggling to get used with normal life again, to be human again, for him to realize in the end that he is human, that he's allowed to appreciate all life has to offer, and I love every bit of it.

[candela888]

Folk Saints in the folk Catholicism of the Americas and other regions✨ Folk saints are deceased people or other spiritually powerful entities (such as Indigenous and African spirits) venerated as saints, even if they're not officially canonized by the Church. LONG THREAD BELOW:

Like officially recognized saints, folk saints are considered intercessors with God, but many are also understood to act directly in the lives of their devotees. Folk saints occur throughout the Catholic world, and they are especially popular in Latin America.

An offering to a folk saint might include the same votive candles and ex-votos (tributes of thanks) left at the shrines to canonized saints, but they also frequently include other items that reflect something of the spirit's former life or personality. 

Now on to the saints themselves:

Some of the Folk Saints in the Folk Catholicism of the Americas:

La Difunta Correa is a figure in Argentinian folk-religion. Every year since 1840, miracles are said to occur at the shrine. Her body was found by gauchos, astonished when they saw the dead woman's baby was alive, feeding from her "miraculously" ever-full breast.

On October 8, 1967, the Argentine revolutionary Che Guevara was captured by the CIA-assisted Bolivian Army and killed, nowadays a monument to "El Che" exists in the town and images of the revolutionary are hung, and some pray to Santo Ernesto who is said to bring about miracles.

Padre Cícero was a Brazilian Catholic priest who became a spiritual leader to the people of Northeastern Brazil. In the course of his ministry, he was accused of heresy by the Church, eventually becoming suspended but not formally excommunicated. A statue of him now stands.

Santa Muerte is an idol, female deity or folk saint in Mexican folk Catholicism and paganism. A personification of death, she is associated with healing, protection, and safe delivery to the afterlife by her devotees. She is seen as a protector of outcasts, including LGBT people.

Gauchito Gil is a folk religious figure in Argentina's popular culture. One can spot small shrines of Gauchito Gil on roadsides throughout Argentina due to the red color and the flags, many of which read "Gracias, Gauchito Gil" if the person's request is fulfilled.

Escrava Anastacia is a popular saint venerated in Brazil. A Black slave woman, Anastacia is depicted as beautiful, having piercing eyes and wearing an oppressive facemask. Anastacia is a very important figure in Folk Catholic and Umbanda devotion, especially with Black Brazilians.

Maximón, also called San Simón, is a Mayan deity and folk saint represented in various forms by the Maya people of several towns in the highlands of Western Guatemala. Oral tradition of his in these communities is complex, diverse, and born of the Maya traditions centuries ago.

El Niño Fidencio was a Mexican curandero. Fidencio was famous for operations without anaesthesia without causing pain to patients, and provided cures related to specific parts of town, such as a pepper tree which the congregation threw offerings around. He is now seen as a saint.

In Puerto Rico, Dia de Los Tres Reyes Magos, or Three Kings' Day is an important holiday. On the day before the feast (January 5), the "Rosario de Reyes" or "Promesa de Reyes" is traditionally celebrated with songs (aguinaldos) promised to be sung to the Kings.

Jesús Malverde, known as the "angel of the poor", or the "narco-saint", is a folklore hero in the Mexican state of Sinaloa. He is a "Robin Hood figure" who was supposed to have stolen from the rich to give to the poor. He is celebrated as a folk saint, particularly among narcos.

Mariana of Jesus de Paredes is a Catholic saint and was the first person to be canonized from what is now Ecuador. She was a recluse who is said to have sacrificed herself for the salvation of her city. She remains very popular with many of the people of Ecuador.

Miriam Alejandra Bianchi, known by her stage name Gilda, was an Argentinian cumbia singer and songwriter. On 7 September 1996 Gilda died in a tragic bus accident, and shortly after her death, Gilda was credited by her fans with achieving miracles and many even called her a saint.

Sarita Colonia, or La Sarita, was a young Peruvian woman who was credited with the ability to make miracles. After her death, a popular veneration for her began, due to her reputation of holiness. She is not recognized by the Church, but is popular, especially with the poor.

Charlene Marie Richard was a twelve-year-old Catholic Cajun girl from Richard, Louisiana, USA. She has become the focus of a popular belief that she is a saint—a person who is in heaven—who has performed a number of miracles.

Selena Quintanilla-Pérez was a singer, songwriter, and fashion designer. Referred to as the "Queen of Tejano music", her contributions to music and fashion made her one of the most celebrated Mexican-American entertainers of the late 20th century. She has a strong following.

El Tío, is believed in Cerro Rico, Potosí, Bolivia to be the "Lord of the Underworld". There are many statues of this spirit in the mines of Cerro Rico. He rules over the mines, simultaneously offering protection and destruction. Miners bring offerings such as cigarettes.

Every year, the Carnaval de Oruro is held, and costumes and statues of El Tío are paraded around in a ceremony that represents his defeat at the hands of the Archangel Michael. This is the only time that images of El Tío are allowed above the surface of the mines.

Antônio Conselheiro was a Brazilian religious leader, preacher, and founder of the village of Canudos, the scene of the War of Canudos (1896–1897), a civil rebellion against the central government. He was strongly against slavery, and had preached and written about it.

San Pascualito is a folk saint associated with Saint Paschal Baylon and venerated in Guatemala and the Mexican state of Chiapas. His veneration is associated with the curing of disease. San Pascualito is represented as a skeleton, sometimes caped or wearing a crown.

Santa Barbara is a major saint in the Catholic tradition of Cuba. In the Afro-Cuban religion of Santería she is often syncretized with Chango, the deity of fire, lightning, and thunder. Chango is male and represents male beauty, virility, passion and power.

La Melchorita is a folk Catholic religious figure from Peru who devoted her entire life to caring for the poor and sick in the village that she lived in.

Don Pedro Jaramillo, was a Purépecha curandero, faith healer, and folk saint from the South Texas Valley region. He is known as "the healer of Los Olmos Creek" and "el mero jefe" of the curanderos. He believed he heard a voice telling him God had given him the power to heal.

Anaisa Pye is a popular loa within religion in the Dominican Republic. She is considered the patron of love, money, and general happiness within Dominican Vudú and Folk Catholicism. Among Dominican Catholic believers, she is syncretized with Saint Anne.

San La Muerte is a skeletal folk saint that is venerated in Paraguay, Argentina, and southern Brazil. Saint Death is depicted as a male skeleton figure usually holding a scythe. Many devotees consider the veneration of San La Muerte as being part of their Catholic faith.

Father J.M. Villars was a Catholic Priest in Indiana. He died in mysterious circumstances in 1868. He has since become a folk saint. People began making pilgrimages to his grave in the early 1910s.

Saint Óscar Romero (1917 – 1980) was a prelate of the Catholic Church in El Salvador who served as the Archbishop of San Salvador. He spoke out against poverty, social injustice and paid great attention to the poor & marginalized. He was recently canonized.

In Managua, Nicaragua, there is a procession for Saint Dominic. An old, small statuette that personifies this saint which has been considered responsible for miracles involving many families and successive generations. Minguito is the name of the statuette, short for 'Domingo'.

The Virgen de los Angeles is the patron saint of Costa Rica. She is also known as La Negrita, the Black Virgin, as she is a Black/Afro-Latina representation. She is a small (less than a meter tall), statuette found on August 2, 1635 by an Indigenous woman.

Santa Teresa was a Mexican mystic, folk healer, and revolutionary insurgent. She had a serious illness and began to experience religious visions. Teresa Urrea was venerated as a folk saint among the many Indigenous people of the Sonoran Desert near the United States border.

Sepé Tiaraju was an Indigenous Guarani leader in the Jesuit reduction mission of São Luiz Gonzaga and who died on February 7, 1756, in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. He led the fight against the Portuguese and Spanish colonial powers, and considered a saint by some.

Menina Izildinha, Angel of the Lord or Saint Izildinha is the popular name of Maria Izilda de Castro Ribeiro, an unofficial popular folk saint to whom Brazilian Catholics have attributed inexplicable miracles, cures and healings. She is a patron saint of the poor.

Popular in the traditions of Santeria, Haitian Vodou, Louisiana Voodoo, Dominican Vudu, and Folk Catholicism, the Anima Sola is an image depicting a soul in purgatory, popular in Spanish-speaking Latin America, Haiti, Southwestern USA, Louisiana, Southern Florida, Andalucia, the Canary Islands, and Southern Italy.

Her Haitian Vodou counterpart is Marinette, a loa of power and violence. She is represented by a screech owl and is often seen as the protector of werewolves (lougarou). Her colors are black and deep blood red. Her offerings are black pigs and black roosters plucked alive.

In Santería or Lukumi, the Afro-Caribbean religion of Cuba, there is a syncretization of the Anima Sola with the Eshu Alleguana/Alawana. Anima Sola is grouped in a triad in some traditions with The Intranquil Spirit and the Dominant Spirit.

Marie Catherine Laveau was a Louisiana Creole practitioner of Voodoo, herbalist and midwife who was renowned in New Orleans. Her daughter, Marie Laveau II, also practiced rootwork, conjure, African spiritualism as well as Louisiana Voodoo. She is considered a saint by some.

Nuestra Señora de los Treinta y Tres, also known as the Liberator of Uruguay, is a title of the Virgin Mary and the Patroness of Uruguay. Ever since the country's independence, there have been pilgrimages to her shrine, for instance, in times of pests, plague, or strife.

In July, hundreds of pilgrims will make their way to an isolated town in the northwest of Haiti, called Anse-à-Foleur or Ansafolè. The journey celebrates a Black Saint known as Gran'n Sainte Anne Charitable in her Catholic form and Ti Saint Anne in Vodou form.

María Lionza is the central figure in one of the most widespread Indigenous beliefs in Venezuela. The cult of María Lionza is a blend of African, Indigenous and Catholic beliefs. She is revered as a goddess of nature, love, peace, & harmony. She has followers throughout Venezuela

Ezilí Dantor or Erzulie Dantó is the main loa or senior spirit of the Petro family in Haitian Vodou. She became popular among single mothers during the 1980s/90s in Haiti and Dominican Republic. The syncretic version of this loa is associated with the Black Madonna of Częstochowa.

In 1945, at 7 pm, 9-year-old Joseph Vitolo was one of a group of children playing outside his home near The Bronx's Grand Concourse in New York City. The children saw something floating above a hill, and when Joseph recited a Hail Mary he saw a woman whom he identified as the Virgin Mary.

Within a few days, the visitations were receiving worldwide attention and up to 20,000 people attended the nightly vigil. Among those who expressed interest in the events were Frank Sinatra, Lou Costello, and Francis Cardinal Spellman.

Revered as a saint by the pilgrims, Joseph was frequently asked to cure the sick and injured and would respond by praying with them. The place where Joseph allegedly saw the visions was bought by a devotee who created a shrine there.

Saint Alberto Hurtado, popularly known in Chile as Padre Hurtado, was a Chilean Jesuit priest, lawyer, social worker, and writer. He is a patron saint of poor people, street children, and social workers. He fought hard for the labor movement in the country.

Our Lady Aparecida is widely venerated by Brazilian Catholics, who consider her as the patroness of Brazil. Accounts state that the statue was originally found by three fishermen who miraculously caught many fish after invoking the Blessed Virgin Mary.

San Baltasar or King Baltasar Cambá is a folk saint of African origin, widely venerated in the coastal area of Argentina in the province of Corrientes. The worship of San Baltasar is known as the Brotherhood of San Baltazar, since the Catholic Church has not canonized him.

La Mano Poderosa is Spanish for "The Powerful Hand," the pierced hand of Our Lord Jesus Christ which is often seen in Latin American iconography, especially in Puerto Rico and Mexico. They are sold on prayer candles and there are prayers one can say.

Saint Laura Montoya was a Colombian Catholic religious sister and the founder of the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Virgin Mary and Saint Catherine of Siena. She was well known for her work for acting as a strong role model for South American girls.

Belie Belcan is a very popular loa within 21 Divisiones (Dominican Vudú). He is considered the patron saint of justice who defends people against evil. He is considered very polite, understanding, and protective. In Catholicism, he is syncretized with San Miguel Arcangel.

Elegua is an Orisha, a deity of roads in the religions of Santería, Umbanda, Quimbanda, and Candomblé. In folk Catholicism, he is syncretized with Saint Michael, Saint Anthony of Padua, or the Holy Child of Atocha.

Nuestra Señora de Suyapa is a title of the Virgin Mary, mother of Jesus Christ. An 18th-century cedar wood statue of the Virgin is perhaps Honduras' most popular religious image, and the focus of an extensive pilgrimage. The statue is considered to have miraculous powers.

The lluvia de peces (lit. 'rain of fish') is a phenomenon that has been occurring yearly for more than a century in Yoro, Honduras, in which fish fall from the sky. Spanish priest Father José Manuel de Jesús Subirana is associated with this phenomenon.

The legend goes as follows: "Father Subirana saw how poor the people of Honduras were and prayed three days and three nights asking God for a miracle to help the poor people and to provide them with food...

...After these three days and nights, God took note of this and there came a dark cloud. Many tasty fish fell from the sky, feeding all the people. Since then this wonder is repeated every year."

Negro Felipe was an escaped slave from Cuba who played a prominent role in the struggle for independence. He served as Bolivar’s aide before being murdered by Spanish colonists in Venezuela. Now a beloved spirit of Maria Lionza, he is venerated as one of the Très Potencias.

Guaicaipuro is a legendary Indigenous Venezuelan chief of both the Teques and Caracas tribes. He is now among the most important spirits of the Venezuelan spiritual tradition, Maria Lionza.

Ricardo Espiell Barrionuevo known as “Ricardito” was born in Lima in 1886. He died when he was seven of unknown causes. Legend says that his relatives made a statue in his name after his death. A big earthquake destroyed part of the cemetery and the statue disappeared.

Nobody could find the statue. Strangely after some months the statue appeared in Spain and it was intact. The president of that moment ordered to bring back it again. Now the statue is considered miraculous by many.

Marassa Jumeaux are the divine twins in Vodou. Love, truth and justice. Directed by reason. Mysteries of liaison between earth and heaven and they personify astronomic-astrological learning. In folk Catholicism they are syncretised with the Catholic Saints Cosmas and Damian.

In Panama , in the Villa de los Santos, there is a legend of the appearance of a headless Catholic Padre who is supposed to be the soul of a missionary who arrived with the Spanish conquerors and who was beheaded on the Cerro de Juan Díaz .

José Gregorio Hernández was a Venezuelan physician. Born in Isnotú, Trujillo State, he became a highly renowned doctor, more so after his death. After his death, people around the country started claiming to have been granted miracles after praying for his intercession to God.

For centuries, Puerto Rican santeros have carved sculptures of saints from fallen trees. They stand watch even where there are no churches. They are carefully crafted and painted. Tthe most common figures are the Three Kings, Santa Barbara, San Francisco, and La Mano Poderosa.

Papa Legba is a loa in Haitian Vodou, who serves as the intermediary between the loa and humanity. He stands at a spiritual crossroads and gives (or denies) permission to speak with the spirits. Legba is syncretized with Saint Peter, Saint Lazarus, and Saint Anthony.

Santa Teresa of Jesus of Los Andes was a Chilean professed religious from the Discalced Carmelites. Her time in the convent was cut short due to her contracting an aggressive disease that killed her. She remains popular with some Catholics in Chile.

The Fiesta Virgen del Mar is a boat festival takes place every year in Puntarenas, Costa Rica to remember the major & damaging storm of 1920, and to give thanks to the Patron Saint of Puntarenas, la Virgen del Carmen, who was said to have saved a fishing vessel during the storm.

Miguel Ángel Gaitán, or El Angelito Milagroso, was an Argentine baby who died of meningitis, 15 days before his first birthday. His corpse remained very well preserved, as was discovered after a violent rainstorm in 1973, revered in Argentina, people go to his shrine for miracles

Ọṣun is an Orisha, a spirit, a deity, or a goddess in Yoruba-based religion. She is an important deity Ochún is usually equated with Cuba's patron saint, Our Lady of Charity. In Brazilian Candomblé, the orisha Oxum has been conflated with Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception

Seraphim Rose, was an American hieromonk of the Russian Orthodox Church Outside Russia who co-founded the St. Herman of Alaska Monastery in Platina, California. Some folk Orthodox Christians hold him in high esteem, venerating him in iconography, liturgy and prayer.

The veneration of San Judas Tadeo in Mexico is very popular. The saint is officially associated with difficult circumstances and is the Patron of Lost Causes, with the idea that the saint hears the petitions of both the good and the bad. It has spread throughout Latin America.

Mariano de Jesús Euse Hoyos was a Colombian Roman Catholic priest ordained in 1872 for the Diocese of Santa Rosa de Osos. He worked in his parish as a staunch defender of the poor and of rural laborers - he himself came from rural origins - and now has many popular devotions.

El Niño Compadrito is a relatively obscure folk saint with that is famous for his blue eyes from Cusco, Peru. He is a mummified corpse, and his veneration is a result of syncretic Indigenous and Catholic beliefs.

A late twentieth century movement to gain national recognition of Afro-Peruvian cultural contributions in Cañete Province focused on Santa Efigenia. An annual celebration of Santa Efígenia is held on September 21 each year in Peru, with processions made in homage to her.

It is popular to give tribute to the virgin and martyr Santa Librada, patron saint of Las Tablas, better known as "La Moñona" in Panama and Argentina.

In traditional and popular folklore of Chile, the procession of the Cristo de Mayo is also called 'Señor de los Temblores', which means Lord of the Earthquakes. This procession is done to protect the inhabitants of Santiago from future earthquakes and calamities.

The Sanctuary of Chalma, is an important pilgrimage site in Mexico. The sanctuary is dedicated to an image of what many people describe as a "Black Christ" on a cross that legend says miraculously appeared in a cave where the worship of a deity known as Tezcatlipoca took place.

Maria da Conceição Bueno is considered a "popular saint" in the State of Paraná, Brazil. She was brutally murdered by a soldier. It is said that at the place of her death a wooden cross was placed, becoming a place of prayers where devotees claimed to have their requests granted.

Azaka (Kouzin or Couzen) is the loa of the harvest in Haitian Vodou. Azaka is often identified with Saint Isadore.

"La Purísima is a festival to the Virgin Mary that is celebrated between November 28 and December 8. The 7th is the culmination, with "La Gritería." It is the most popular festival of the year for most Nicaraguans.

Francisco Pancho Sierra was an Argentine curandero. He is one of the many folklore characters of the rural culture of the Pampean provinces of Argentina. He supposedly helped many people, and is considered a Saint by some.

Trinidad Orisha, also known as Shango, is a syncretic religion in Trinidad and Tobago and is of Caribbean origin, originally from West Africa (Yoruba religion). Obatala/Saint Benedict and Shango/Saint John are some of the syncretic saints/spirits in the religion.

The Virgen de la Bala is a folk devotion to an icon of the Virgin Mary that is said to protect people against violence. It has gained some popularity in Mexico.

Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo is a monument located on Plaza El Salvador del Mundo in San Salvador City, El Salvador. It consists of a statue of Jesus Christ standing on top of a global sphere of planet Earth, placed on top of the tall four-sided concrete base pedestal.

Rosita de Pachacútec is a folk devotion to a young Peruvian girl thought to be a saint.

"La Virgen del Pozo" is a supposed Marian apparition at a spring-puddle in Sabana Grande, Puerto Rico in 1953. Several students from a nearby school reported seeing "a beautiful young lady" floating on a cloud above a spring that provided water to the school

La Quemadita, or Casimira Morón, was brought to a small town in Peru on foot, because she had suffered an accident, burning her entire body. The inhabitants of the area leave her candles and pray for her soul, becoming a folk saint in the town, with people praying at the shrine.

San Miguel Arcángel is not a folk saint, but a saint and an angel that is recognized by the Church. Regarded as one of the most important saints in Latin America, he is known as defeating Satan in the War in Heaven. His likeness is used in many occult practices in the region.

Carlos Manuel Cecilio Rodríguez Santiago, or Beato Charlie, was a layperson of the Catholic Church, who was beatified on April 29, 2001. He is the first Puerto Rican, the first Caribbean-born layperson in history to be beatified. There is a movement to make him an offical saint.

Often called “The Peoples’ Priest,” Trinidadian Archbishop Anthony Pantin was loved by many for his compassion and the work he did for the poor and underprivileged. He might become the next Caribbean Saint.

In Guadalajara, Mexico there is an ancient child mummy called "Santa Inocencia". There are many  versions to her story, but all focus on the elements  that she was a  girl who was said to have been killed by her father due to her desire to convert to Christianity.

Her remains were brought to Mexico from Europe during the colonial era. Recently, a tourist was standing in front of the corpse when he caught a chilling moment on video. The corpse is said to blink sometimes, and many say that the cathedral is haunted.

Some of the Folk Saints in the Folk Catholicism (and Orthodoxy) of Africa:

Sister Anna Hadija Ali was a Kenyan Religious Sister. She is known for her claims of personal contact with Jesus Christ in visitations between 1987-1991. For 4 years she experienced weekly visits from Him; and cried bloody tears on Wednesday-Thursday nights according to witnesses

Kaleb (520), also known as Saint Elesbaan, is perhaps the best-documented, if not best-known, King of Aksum, which was situated in modern-day Eritrea and Tigray, Ethiopia.

Sr. Bernadeta Mbawala, from Tanzania, was noticed to have special grace, love, obidience, humility and perseverance in life, and when she died in 1950 people began to visist her grave and pray there. People report to have been helped by God through the intercession with her.

The Virgin of Candelaria or Our Lady of Candle, popularly called La Morenita, celebrates the Virgin Mary on the island of Tenerife, one of the Canary Islands. She is depicted as a Black Madonna. In Guanche mythology, the she was identified as Chaxiraxi, and her son Chijoraji.

The cult of the Virgin of Candelaria swept America due to the emigration from the Canary Islands. She is widely venerated in South America and the Caribbean. In Cuban Santería, the she is identified with Oyá as well as Oba. In Brazilian Candomblé, the she is identified with Oshun.

Saint Efigenia/Ifigênia of Ethiopia is a folk saint, especially popular with Afro-Peruvians, Afro-Brazilians, and Cubans.

A "Venerable Brotherhood of Saint Elesbão & Saint Efigênia" was founded in Rio de Janeiro on 1740 by free Black people from Cabo Verde, Coast of the Mine (present-day Ghana), São Tomé Island, and Mozambique.

Peter Porekuu (1918 –2008) – given the surname Der then Dery– was a Ghanaian Roman Catholic cardinal. Some have suggested that he could be a saint.

Some of the Folk Saints in the Folk Catholicism of Asia:

Francis Xavier Truong Buu Diep was a Vietnamese Catholic priest who served the people of Bạc Liêu. According to believers, after he passed, his remains were lost until he appeared in a vision and disclosed the location and at least two posthumous miracles are attributed to him.

Miguel Ayatumo is a venerated Filipino Catholic seminarian student in Loboc, Bohol, who died in odor of sanctity. Contemporary records speaks glowingly of him and his remains lies inside the Loboc Church and is being revered as a pilgrimage site by some.

Maria Basañes was a very religious Filipina woman. When she passed, the family was required to move the grave and found that her body was preserved. They now keep her in the living room of their home. Rumours say she wanders the region at night, and could be deemed a saint.

Amakusa Shirō led the Shimabara Rebellion, an uprising of Japanese Catholics against the Shogunate. They were defeated, and Shirō was executed at the age of 17. His head was displayed on a pike near Nagasaki. He is now considered a folk saint to many Japanese Catholics.

Filomena Almarinez was a Filipina woman who gained her fame as a folk saint after her body was discovered in a state of Incorruptibility when her grave was exhumed for her father's body. Locals proclaimed her a saint and a number of miracles were attributed to her.

Some of the Folk Saints in the Folk Catholicism (and Orthodoxy) of Europe:

Dr José Tomás de Sousa Martins was a doctor renowned for his work for the poor in Lisbon, Portugal. After his death, a spiritist cult arose around his personality in which he is thanked for "miraculous" cures. Followers say that they have psychic communications with him.

According to Catholic tradition, Saint Amaro was an abbot and sailor who it was claimed sailed across the Atlantic Ocean to an earthly paradise.

Many claim that the historical character of San Amaro converged many pagan traditions present in Asturias and Galicia.

Saint Senara is a legendary Cornish folk saint with links to the village of Zennor on the coast of Cornwall , UK. The Church of Saint Senara, Zennor is dedicated to her. Senara was highly venerated by local fishermen. Her legend is similar to the story of Danaë in Greek Myth.

Sir John Schorne was rector of North Marston in the English county of Buckinghamshire. He was a very pious man and was said to have effected many miraculous cures for gout and toothache. His shrine became a popular place of pilgrimage and he was regarded by many as a folk saint.

Saint Guinefort was a 13th-century French dog that received local veneration as a folk saint after miracles were reported at his grave. Guinefort became recognised by locals as a saint for the protection of infants after he was martyred protecting a baby.

María Cuchilla is said to be a condemned spirit of a young woman of a humble class who lived in Oviedo, Spain in the 18th or 19th century. She is bloodthirsty and appears at night brandishing a huge bloody knife. Some people consider her the Patron Saint of unsolved crimes.

Saint Sarah is the patron saint of the Romani people. The center of her veneration is Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a place of pilgrimage for Roma in France. Legend identifies her as the attendant of one of the Three Marys, with whom she is supposed to have arrived in the Camargue.

Nikolay Guryanov was a Russian Orthodox Christian and reputed myrrh-bearing starets and priest. Numerous miracles and healings are ascribed to him. He is considered a saint in some folk Orthodoxy.

In certain parts of Andalusia, a legend is known that tells that the Anima Sola, was in ancient times the daughter of a nobleman, the young girl helped the poor, her father did not like the idea of ​​her daughter doing that & as punishment he ordered her to be burned at the stake.

Belief in Anima Sola is perhaps strongest in Naples, Italy, where it is referred to as "the cult of the souls in Purgatory."

In Cádiz, Black Spaniards organized their own religious association, "Confradia de Nuestra Senora de le Salud, San Bello y Santa Ifigênia", formed in El Puerto de Santa María in 1575, a devotion for Santa Ifigênia. From Cádiz, her devotion spread to Portugal and then to Brazil.

Hélèna Soutadé is a "popular saint" (not recognized by the Church) in Toulouse, France. The cult of Saint Helena takes the form of pilgrimages to her tomb and contact with her relic (a piece of clothing). She was a teacher in life, and is called to help in such matters.

La Muerte or La Parca is Death in Spanish folklore. Their skeletal figure is commonly seen in several parts of Spain, such as in the Holy Week (Semana Santa) in Sevilla, Andalucia.

Saints Victor and Corona are two Christian martyrs. Victor was a Roman soldier who was tortured and killed; Corona was killed for comforting him. Corona is venerated in connection with treasure-hunting and, since 2020, with the 2020 coronavirus pandemic, especially in Italy.

Sebastianism is a Portuguese messianic myth, based on the belief that King Sebastian of Portugal, disappeared in the battle of Alcácer Quibir, will return from Morocco to save Portugal. It is categorised as an example of the King asleep in mountain folk motif.

Samthann is an Irish folk saint, purportedly a Christian nun and abbess in Early Christian Ireland.

Francesc Canals i Ambrós, known as "el Santet" was a young man from Barcelona who died at the age of 22. Buried in the Poblenou Cemetery in Barcelona, ​​he has a popular veneration that is attributed to the supposed granting of favors. In life he was a person loved by neighbors.

Saint Mariña of Aguas Santas (Mariña of Ourense) (119–139 AD) is a virgin martyr associated with the town of Aguas Santas, in the province of Ourense. She is venerated as one of nine sisters, including Quiteria and Liberata (Santa Librada).

Saint Quiteria was a second-century virgin martyr about whom nothing is certain except her name and her cult. She appears in the Roman Martyrology. She is said to have been born in Bracara (now Braga, Portugal), and her statue had many miracles attributed to it.

Catherine of Aragon (Spanish: Catalina) was Queen of England from June 1509 until May 1533 as the first wife of King Henry VIII. She was the daughter of the Catholic Monarchs Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon. She has a major following amongst some Catholics.

Maria Adelaide was a Portuguese woman who lived and died during the 19th century. Although not officially recognized by the Catholic Church, she is popularly considered to be one by the people of Portugal. When her body was exhumed that a cult began to grow around her.

Christina the Astonishing was a Christian holy woman born in Brustem, Belgium. She was considered a saint in her own time, and for centuries following her death. Prayers are traditionally said to Christina to seek her intercession for those suffering from mental illness.

Maria da Conceição Stinger Pimentel Teixeira, best known as Saozinha of Sheltered, was a young Catholic pious girl who died with a reputation for holiness and has a popular devotion as folk saint in the village of Alenquer, in Portugal.

A Marian apparition is a reported supernatural appearance by Mary, the mother of Jesus, or a series of related such appearances over a period of time. They are quite common throughout the Catholic world.

Wilgefortis is a female saint of the Catholic Church whose legend arose in the 14th century, and whose distinguishing feature is a large beard. Her name comes from the Latin "virgo fortis".

She is known as Uncumber in England, Debarras in France, and Liberata in Italy.

Dobri Dimitrov Dobrev, better known as Grandpa Dobri, Elder Dobri, or The Saint of Bailovo, was a Bulgarian ascetic who walked over 20 kilometres (12 mi) each day to sit or stand in front of the Cathedral of Alexander Nevsky in Sofia to collect money for charitable causes.

Saint Lí Ban was an Irish woman turned mermaid. She survived a flood, after which she was transformed into a being who was half-human, half-salmon. She was spotted by a ship carrying a messenger sent by St. Comgall to Rome. She was baptised, and given the Christian name Muirgein

The Cult of the Lord Holy Christ of the Miracles is a religious veneration from the Azores Islands of Portugal that is associated with a wooden image of Jesus Christ. Originally from the island of São Miguel, the belief has spread throughout the world with the Azorean diaspora.

Traditionally, Sheelah's Day was celebrated the day after the Feast of St. Patrick and coincided with the Christian festivities. According to Irish folklore, Sheelah was either the wife of St. Patrick, and the holiday served to commemorate her life.

Thank you all for reading! I hope you enjoyed. Do you have a favorite folk saint?

[acenancy]

The Ace x Nancy x Tamura of It All

I’m here as a hardcore Nace shipper (see the URL) to throw my two cents into the Ace x Nancy x Tamura discussion.

Some of you straight up hate Tamura and that’s cool, I get it, no judgement, but I personally like him a lot as a character. And I LOVE the connection he and Nancy have. Their repartee is entertaining, they share a passion for solving mysteries which is key to being Nancy’s friend, and their very different life experiences help balance each other out. 

You know, since one of them is grounded in reality and the other is navigating through life in a supernaturally charged hellmouth.

That being said, I hope they grow closer during S3 WITHOUT becoming explicitly romantic. And I think that may be exactly what happens! At most, I think that while solving magical mysteries, Nancy and Tamura will engage in a fun little flirtationship  that will lead to genuine friendship. His partnership with Nancy would be solidified this way as well as his honorary membership to the Drew Crew. This could serve three purposes: 

Forcing Tamura to accept the supernatural elements of Horseshoe Bay, thus weaving him more intricately into the plot.

Creating tension between Nancy and Ace 😏

Exploring and adding depth to whatever sort of relationship they’re trying to establish between Tamura and Ace.

I see all of this playing out fairly simply: while Nick and George are busy juggling real life and a wedding, while Bess devotes her time and energy into researching her family history and finding love, and while Ace prioritizes Amanda, Nancy finds herself without proper backup. So! Perhaps unintentionally, Nancy gravitates to Tamura. There's crimes and mysteries to be solved and since her friends are not fully available to her, who better to turn to than the guy who’s job it is to investigate these things? And so begins the Nancy and Tamura buddy cop comedy that is both dreaded and highly anticipated depending on what social media outlet you’re using.

Though let me repeat: BUDDY COP. 

I really don’t think we’re going to have an Ed and Lorraine Warren situation on our hands with these two. Truly, if the S2 finale is anything to go by, I think S3 will allow Nancy to grow into herself outside of a romantic or sexual relationship. She’s not running from herself and into someone else’s bed anymore. She’s embracing and learning to love herself. I’d even go so far as to say Nancy’s love interest next season will be...Nancy lmao. 

As for Tamura, if they decide to give him a romantic interest, I think they would either have his ex-fiancée reenter the picture or maybe even do him dirty and stick him with Temperance for plot reasons. A doomed Tamura x Temperance romance would actually be fun to see, in my opinion, and would be a great way to open Tamura’s eyes to the supernatural. That’s just me spit-balling, though. Whether it’s because of Temperance or not, I think Tamura is finally going to have to accept ghosts and witches and magic are real this season. It’s just a requirement for working with Nancy Drew.

MOST IMPORTANTLY, we have to address the Nace of it all. Sorry to Tamura but I do believe you’re being used as an obstacle in True Love’s way next season. I think fandom’s general consensus is that the more time Nancy and Tamura spend together, romantic or not, the more jealous Ace will become. While I agree, I think Ace’s jealousy will stem from somewhere a little deeper than just seeing Nancy with another guy. 

Take Gil, for example. Ace was sort of jealous of Gil, but more than anything he was wary of him and concerned for Nancy’s wellbeing when she was with him. Unlike Ace, Gil never had anything to offer Nancy except for sex and a getaway car. He sure as hell was never her number one person. In fact, he wasn’t even Nancy’s number five person. There was never a reason for Ace to be envious of him.

Tamura, on the other hand, can prove to be just as much of an equal to Nancy as Ace is. As chief/lead detective, he also has power and influence that Ace and Nancy do not, and access to people and resources that Ace does not have (unless he can hack into them). Tamura can help Nancy bend and break the law without consequence if need be, too. And, although naive in regards to the mystics of Horseshoe Bay, he is just as smart as Nancy and has, on the rare occasion, even been one step ahead of her. Tamura is an asset, to say the least. Together, he and Nancy make a formidable duo.

That’s what will make Ace jealous. More than the prospect of romance between Nancy and Tamura, I think that Nancy finding another intellectual match is what will rub Ace the wrong way. They’ll find themselves at a brief moment in time where Nancy will turn to Tamura for assistance before anyone, including Ace, and Ace will realize he absolutely hates that someone who is not him is Nancy’s partner in crime now.

Maybe Nancy won’t notice, but Ace will probably realize his love for her is not of the philia sort. I’m sure Amanda also will. And? Maybe Tamura will see it too.

Which brings me to one of my favorite dynamics of the show: Ace and Tamura’s.

I’m not gonna sit here and spin my crazy conspiracy theory that they’re brothers. Though that idea will always hold a special place in my heart, slowly but surely I am accepting that Ace’s long lost brother really is Grant. I’m being a total grownup about it. I swear.

Nevertheless, I do think they’ve been trying to build some kind of relationship between Ace and Tamura since before Tamura even met Nancy. What sort of relationship? God, I wish I knew.

They meet each other first, which doesn’t necessarily mean a lot, but it’s worth noting that they’re on each other’s funny little shit lists before Nancy even enters Tamura’s picture. It’s also Ace and Ace alone that hears from McGuinness that Tamura will be replacing him in the same episode. Then, of course, we have that crazy Shabbat dinner in 2x03 that exacerbates their antagonistic relationship further. Then there’s their snarky banter and all of those totally unnecessary side-by-side shots of them saving Noah in 2x10. Apart from Nancy, Ace is the only member of the Drew Crew that we’ve seen Tamura develop a real connection with, even if it is an unfriendly one. And, as of now, their relationship doesn’t even have anything to do with Nancy.

So where are the writers going with this hilarious and hostile bond between Ace and Tamura? Has all of this really just been buildup for a romantic rivalry? Hey, maybe! I really can’t figure out another reason why the writers have gone out of their way to create their dynamic since the Brother Theory has been disproven. But something tells me this may be the beginning of a beautiful friendship.

And when I say “this”, I mean Tamura taking a step back from Nancy once he realizes he may just be filling in the love of her life’s shoes. Because that’s where I think all of this is going. Not necessarily anywhere romantic between Nancy and Tamura, but somewhere more friendly between Tamura and everyone.

At the end of it all, Tamura is going to finally embrace the supernatural, he’s going to become an ally to Nancy, Ace, and the rest of the Drew Crew, and, when the timing is right, he’s going to hop onboard the Nace ship with the rest of us. 

I HOPE.

Side note: this is just where my head is at. I truly respect all of your opinions and ask that you respect mine too. If you agree with what I’ve said and want to talk, let’s talk! If you disagree and want to talk, we can talk too! Please, just don’t get nasty with me. This is a television show about fictional characters at the end of the day, and I am a real person. Much love to you all. ❤️