#Grace-Based Counseling

[steviebee77]

Psychology and Christian Theology

I WANT TO REVISIT a subject I’ve spoken about several times over the years. Can psychology and Christian theology be integrated into a meaningful, powerful, and comprehensive form of counseling. Mark R. McMinn, Ph.D., writes, “The healing motif woven throughout the narrative of human history reflects a common pattern to healing and health.”1 Psychology is one of several disciplines that seek to…

[1-helluva-hazbin]

Hello! can you see a girl reader who wants to be perfect in everything (in appearance, in weight and in work) and cries if someone bypasses her? characters: adam or lucifer :)

I’m so excited for the ask! I’m happy to try and oblique. I’m not certain I 100% understand your ask so if what I’ve written isn’t what you meant, send in another ask! Thank you for your patience while I got to this as well! Both scenarios for both characters are going to be written with established relationships (friendship bordering on romantic for Adam, a romantic relationship for Lucifer). Both stories were only quickly proofread.

Trigger Warnings for Lucifer's story: suicide, self harm, self depreciation

.˳·˖✶𓆩𓁺𓆪✶˖·˳.  ✶✶ Adam ✶✶  .˳·˖✶𓆩𓁺𓆪✶˖·˳. Adam x fem!reader

Song that fits the vibe: Sleep Token - DYWTYLM

Adam was used to seeing women cry; usually tears of joy from having their brains fucked out by the dickmaster himself or subsequently tears of sorrow when he made it clear he didn’t want them and their clingy bullshit around long term. Regardless, they were a pretty regular thing for him to have to deal with.

In the time he had gotten to known you, which was decently long since he tended to get bored of the winners, he hadn’t ever seen you shed a tear. Even when you both had initially met and he had said some rude ass shit to you, you gave him grace. You were much like Emily in the sense that you were usually a bundle of joy full of understanding, forgiveness, love for all, blah-blah-blah.

Only you were hotter. WAY hotter.

In his books you were the hottest winner he had ever seen and based on how you acted, you knew you were good looking. You acted sheepish and tried to downplay any compliments you got but he noticed the way you glowed when you got them. You fed off of it. Taking pride in your appearance. You were always dressing to the nines, going through every known self care routine, and working out; even though you didn’t need to in heaven. You had it down to a science at this point with all of it seemingly coming so effortlessly to you.

Even the work you had taken up to help out the angels who needed it was easy for you. You only ever needed instructions once and you could repeat it back flawlessly performing it with ease.

The only more impressive thing besides being the most flawless being of all the heavenly creatures was that you, of all the winners out there, had impressed HIM. Besides killing sinners and fighting, you might even rank higher than Lute for badass bitches. He wouldn’t admit that openly of course. Lute would be pissed. Plus, that would make it seem like he liked you too much and he wouldn’t want to blow up your ego. He wouldn’t want to have to eat his own words down the line.

Yet, one day as Adam had rounded the corner, after a long boring ass meeting with the counsel, and he saw you standing in the vacant hallway with your head down and fists clenched. What the fuck were you doing? He started to ask until he noticed that though your hair covered your gorgeous face, he could see the tears falling to the ground. Your shoulders shaking slightly as you tried to quell the downpour.

The moment he got his barings, he started marching over to you. “Who the FUCK do I have to kill?” Your head whipped up, your eyes puffy and cheeks red. Somehow the tears that littered the marble floor hadn’t disturbed the perfect makeup you had dawned. 

“A-Adam?” you gasp out, suddenly trying to dab dry your face with the back of your hands. “Tell me who made you cry and I’ll fucking slaughter them.” Adam growled out. As he neared you, his approach slowed but the moment you were within arms reach his hands shot out to gently grab your face. His thumbs lightly rubbing away the tears while trying not to fuck with your make up. His eyes roamed your face, taking in how haggard you look, before locking eyes with you, “Give me a name sugartits. I’ll show ‘em not to mess with THE Adam’s friend.”

The intensity Adam was emitting was a little intimidating and yet, the way he was holding your face was so tender. You couldn’t help but lean into his touch as you brought your hands up to cover his. Tears started to well in your eyes again as you took a shaky breath.

He started to simultaneously panic and get wildly more pissed off the moment it looked like you were going to start crying again. His only tell that he was internally raging was that his eyebrows furrowed more, until you brought his hands down away from your face. You held onto them though as you lightly pressed them to your chest, right above your plush bust.

This was the first time you had ever considered talking about this with anyone. Usually you could hold yourself together long enough to get to your room before you fell apart but, today it had all been too much. The fear was overwhelming. The fear of being replaced. Of being tossed aside. You had done everything perfectly. They all had said so. They had sung your praises since you had come and yet now, their attentions had turned elsewhere. How was it that people could suddenly turn their affections to someone else when you had done it all right? You desperately needed the validation; the vindication. You had done it all right, hadn’t you? Where had you gone wrong? What did you DO wrong? How could you fix this?

You look up to Adam with your misty doe eyes. His gauze tightly fixated on you. He was an honest person. Unkindly sometimes but, he was honest. If anyone was going to tell you how you had fucked up and how you could fix it, Adam would.

“It-It…it’s just…” your breathing is shaky so you take a moment before continuing. “I feel…I feel like I messed up and I don’t know how to fix it. There’s…there’s a new winner. She’s really kind, smart, funny, and so pretty. She’s…” you choke up for a moment thinking about all the ways she’s attractive in the ways you aren’t, “SO pretty… and helpful. She’s so fast at everything she does. I…I…”

“Okay sugartits you’ve lost me. Why were you crying over some new winner?” he asked, utterly bewildered.

You tear your hands away from him as your eyes well up again. You shouldn’t have expected him to understand. “EVERYONE wants her help… I haven’t been able to help anyone out since shortly after she ascended and I feel so…so useless. She’s replacing me… I’m… I’m replaceable… how? I thought I did everything right? She’s so much better than me-”

“Shut the fuck up.”

The words stunned you into silence and halted your spiral, just as the tears had started flowing again. “You really think some dumb bitch is going to walk up in here and take YOUR place?” he scoffed rolling his whole head, “Yeah fucking right. I give it a week tops before she fucks up. As if some rando new winner can take YOUR place. They’ll be crawling back to you asking for your help. BEGGING for your help. You being the goody two-shoe you are though will forgive them for being stupid and will go back to being #1 at whatever boring paperwork they have you doing.”

“But…why would they just… What did I do wrong?” you ask with a hoarse voice his explanation not making sense.

“Do wrong?” He gasped out, “You couldn’t do a damn thing wrong in your life if you tried. They’re just being fucking dumb. You’re better than every other winners out there and when they realize that you need to rub it in their face. Make them LOATH the day they thought they could replace you. Until they pull their heads out of their asses I’m sure I got some stuff you could help me with.”

He reached out and wiped away the tears again. The aching in your heart eased slightly knowing he wholeheartedly believed what he was saying and, for the moment, his conviction was enough for you. Not that it completely quelled your feelings but, you were able to manage them far better knowing you were still wanted in someone’s world.

His eyes lit up, “You know, you could come to meetings with me and take notes or whatever. Give me the cliffnotes. That shit is SO boring. I’m sure your notes will be better than the official ones they write up anyways and I don’t have to read that shit.”

You smile laughing softly, “I can definitely do that.”

He returned the smile, his thumbs lightly caressed your cheeks, before withdrawing his hands. His whole demeanor instantly reverting back to his usual cocky self. “Damn am I good at giving advice out or what? Just another way I’m FUCKING amazing. You know what, I deserve some goddamn ribs.” he hooted as he turned and started waltzing off.

Seconds later he turned and looked back realizing you were still standing there in a daze, “Come on sugartits I ain’t got all day!”

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

♱𐕣 𖤐 𐕣♱  ☽𖤐☾ Lucifer ☽𖤐☾  ♱𐕣 𖤐 𐕣♱ Lucifer x fem!reader

Song that fits the vibe: She’s An Actor - Austin Giorgio

Trigger warning: suicide, self harm, self depreciation 

You would have thought by now you would be used to being compared to other people. 

Used to aiming for perfection, without ever truly achieving it.

In life you had been constantly used as a pedestal; your sister, friends, co-works. It had never felt like you could claim the recognition you wanted despite having done everything right. 

The perfect GPA in school with extracurriculars to the point you only got a few hours of sleep. Yet your sister’s athletic achievements in swim and cheer had always meant more to your parents. 

The modeling career that you had gotten into, with your best friend following suit only for her to have gotten a contract a year before you. She had even attributed it to your help during a renowned shoot. An unintentional wound that drove you to the edge of your sanity; studying every fashion magazine, the extreme exercising, dieting, any pills that might help and you could get your hands on. 

Then once you finally caught your own break, getting a contract with a big modeling firm, constantly being included in the creme dela crop of models. The never ending critiques of what outfit looked good on which body for x, y, z reasons. Even if you were chosen more than every other model in the company for being the most ideal woman to show off the reveried outfits of the season, you were nothing more than a manikin. Replaced at the drop of hat the moment you couldn’t do it.

You couldn’t stop yourself though. You had to do it all. You had to do it flawlessly. You were a failure if you didn’t.

Yet, somehow it was never good enough.  Damned if you do. Damned if you don’t. Even in death, the out you brought about convinced it would be your sweet release, hadn’t ended the torment.  You had only condemned yourself further.  The epitome of failure.

Why couldn’t you even die right?

How had you ever attracted Lucifer’s attention?

As you stood in the the hotel lobby, the Hazbin Hotel gala fundraiser in full swing with all the top sinners and hellborns mingling and enjoying the free event, you felt eyes scrutinizing you. 

Your corset was cinched as tightly as it would go, reducing your waist dramatically, though giving you a somewhat nice hourglass shape. The mermaid style, galaxy themed dress had a sweetheart neckline and off the shoulder straps. It was a deep hue of royal purple on top before gradually fading to black starting at the hips as it descended your figure with gold and silver stars across the entirety of it, fit your figure snuggly and played off of Lucifer's pristine white and gold tux, his bowtie and pocket square the same royal purple. All your assets were perfectly held within the outfit, with tasteful peeks of skin showing beneath the chiffon overlay at your sides and a silt from just above the knee down. A golden snake choker with its head seated in your jugular notch, accenting your bust.

Lucifer hadn’t left your side since the event started. He had a hand incessantly lingering on your lower back as you both navigated the sea of people. You weren’t sure if the constant touch was for him or for you, but it helped steady you as you held yourself together by a thread. Every person you met was better than you in one way or another; status, poise, brand name outfit, professional makeup.

There was no hesitation with each new face in identifying any and every advantage or feature they had that you lacked. Another chip off your shoulder.

The socialite veneer seamlessly masking the degradation you were inflicting. The practiced saccharine smile never leaving your lips. Well timed laughs. A slight head tilt here to show your interest followed by a slight nod. The only honest part of your act was the high praise you sang regarding Charlie and her truly stunning optimism and strong willed determination.

You could feel the scrutiny lightening the longer the night went on. Some people even reapproached you and Lucifer to continue talking. Prior feigned politeness making way to many of the hellborns attempting political fanangling. Both you and Lucifer’s attempts to redirect the conversation back to the point of the party thwarted or outmaneuvered. Eventually, the conversations fell outside of your ability to participate. You had become an adornment.

You were so tired, so heavy.

Following a particularly trying bird guest whose smarmy quips were particularly taxing you excused yourself from the conversation, missing Lucifer’s panicked glance as you moved away. You just needed a break. 

Just a quick one.

You looked yourself over in the mirror. Fixing any stray hairs. Correcting any smudges of lipstick or eyeliner. You noted the contour along your nose could have been darker to thin your fat nose. You’d need a tighter corset as well should you need to attend another party like this.

You backed up to further evaluate yourself.

The prettiest you can be and still you are disgusting.

Your eyes fluttered shut and you took a slow deep breath. No. No you looked good. This would be something you could wear for a shoot. You just needed to change a few small things. Maybe a couple things. Possibly one bit thing. All the comparisons throughout the night flooded your mind, a tsunami. If only you could change everything about yourself. All the things you lacked. All the things you needed to be. Nothing you could ever achieve.

You choked out a sob. Your hands crawling up your arms as you hugged yourself tightly. You dug your claws into your flesh. Stop this. You couldn’t break down now. The gala wasn’t over just yet. You squeezed your arms tighter, not realizing your claws had broken skin. The failed attempt to reel yourself in breaking you further. Failure. Why couldn’t you hold yourself together for a night? You hunched over as now silent tears hit the floor.

A knock sounded at the door.

You held your breath, eyes wide as you stood there. A breath in through the nose and out through the mouth. “One moment please! I’m almost finished!” you call, your voice taking on a melodic tone. 

There was a pause. “Open the door sweetheart.”

Lucifer. You didn’t reply. Didn’t move. Didn’t breath. He knew you only used that voice when you were hiding a breakdown. It didn’t help that the bathroom was your go to place. “My sun, please?”

You crumbled.

The moment the door was unlocked he was in the bathroom with you. His small, lithe body slipping in and closing the door behind him. A soft smile greeting you despite the puffy eyes and tear streaks staining your made face.

“I’m ready when you are.” he whispered.

Your eyes widen and you’re frantic at the thought of being the cause of the king of hell leaving. Look at you fucking something else up tonight. Before you could say anything, a portal appeared behind Lucifer. He gently took your hands before he stepped back. He didn’t pull you though. 

You stared at him; his gentle smile, soft eyes, adorable cheek marks. The tears started flowing again and your hands squeezed his. You stepped into his room in the hotel several floors up from where you both had been, the portal closing behind you.

A glittery red mist engulfing the both of you before disappearing in seconds. Both of you in the dark blue rubber duckie pajamas he had created for your 1 month anniversary however long ago. His a short sleeve shirt with loose fitting pants and yours a spaghetti strap dress that flowed down to your knees. The gashes on your arms cleaned and bandaged up. Your hair down and make up gone. Across the room, your galaxy dress and his heavenly white suit and usual hat hung up on hangers.

“Thank you…” you whisper, trying to wipe away the endless tears that were still flowing down your face. He pulled your hands away from your face and lightly kissed you. He led the way over to the bed, both of you quickly climbing in. You cuddled into his chest as he wrapped his arms around you. You closed your eyes. Listening to his heartbeat and steady breathing. One of his hand of claws raking through your hair. A rosy cheek pressed to the top of your head.

“Will you tell me what’s wrong?” He asked in a whisper. Your hands clutched his shirt. Embarrassed you couldn’t keep yourself. He turned his head to kiss your hair. “You don’t have to tonight. It’s been a long day. Tomorrow though?”

You don’t want to. You don’t want to face the feelings, to face him. Admit to him the truth that nothing you did was ever truly good enough. That you were a failure and tonight was further proof.

You backed up to tell him it was nothing. That you just got overwhelmed and were tired. To hide away this ugliness. 

The look of concern caught you off guard though. He was unmasked. Vulnerable. Asking for you to be the same. He had been open about answering everything you had ever asked him, why couldn’t you do the same?

You couldn’t fail him. You could be a failure in every other way but not for him. You couldn’t fail him. Wouldn’t. 

Slowly, you nod and echo, “Tomorrow.”

“Okay.” He returned his cheek to the top of your head squeezing you into him with both arms. His tail manifesting and wrapping itself around your closest lower leg. “I love you.”

You burrowed into his side again, your own arms securing him to you. You smiled, feeling his tail. “I love you too. Thank you, my star.”

Both of you quickly succumbed to sleep wrapped in each other’s embrace.

Neither of you believing you deserved the the other.

[medievalandfantasymelee]

COME ONE, COME ALL to the MOSTE ILLUSTRIOUS TOURNAMENT of the FINEST, the MOSTE PUISSANT and HOTTEST MEN MEDIEVAL MEDIA HAS TO ITS CREDIT.

Be it known that we shall accept submissions of the hottest men OF THE PEOPLES’ CHOOSING from any live-action* TV or movie media property set between the years AD 500 – 1550 (Tudors WELCOME!!), and any fantasy properties which emulate said period!

KNOW ALSO that we, by the grace of this fine hellsite and with the counsel of the moste honorable and illustrious @hotvintagepoll (many thanks), have made

THESE GUIDELINES here given:

ANY HOT GUY who appears in any movie or TV show released in ANY YEAR, from ANY COUNTRY, shall be deemed eligible for entry. Below are listed examples of eligible properties. If YE BE NOT CERTAIN whether your hot guy is eligible, submit him anyway!

Examples of Eligible Properties: The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001-03), Game of Thrones (2011-19) House of the Dragon (2022), Wolf Hall (2015-2024), The Tudors (2007-2010), Ladyhawke (1985), The Princess Bride (1987), The White Queen (2013), Rise of Empires: Ottoman (2020-2022), Vikings (2013-2020), The Last Kingdom (2015-2022), Diriliş: Ertuğrul (2014), A Knight’s Tale (2001), BBC’s Robin Hood (2006-3009), The Last Duel (2021), The Story of Minglan (2018), The Borgias (2013), Robin Hood (1939), Outlaw King (2018), Pilgrimage (2017), Legend (1985), Braveheart (1995), The Green Knight (2021), Excalibur (1981), Beowulf & Grendel (2005), The Lion in Winter (1968), Robin Hood: Men in Tights (1993), The Black Adder (Blackadder Series 1, 1982), Rashomon (1950)

Remember: This is just a list of examples—WOW ME!

These following titles are examples of properties that do not fall within or emulate the stated time period and therefore DO NOT QUALIFY: The Three Musketeers (Any Version), Pirates of the Caribbean (2004), Barbarians (2020), Gladiator (2000), Ben Hur (1959), Shogun (2024), Elizabeth (1999), 300 (2006), Troy (2004), Xena: Warrior Princess (1995-2001), Disney's Robin Hood (1973)**, Yojimbo (1961), Shakespeare in Love (1998), King Arthur (2004)***

For the purposes of this tournament, "Man" and "Guy" are defined as any bi-pedal humanoid male character played by a man. As such, characters belonging to non-human races such as Hobbits, Orcs, Elves, Demons, Fauns, Werewolves etc. ARE admissible, and, indeed, encouraged.

If you have propaganda you forgot to include in your submission, just hold onto it and send it in an ask after the Tournament begins.

You may submit as many hot men as you like but please submit only ONE ENTRANT per submission.

Do not hesitate to submit ANY hot guy you think may qualify, no matter how popular he is. There is no such thing as a shoo-in with these tournaments. If you think "Someone MUST have submitted him already!" Everyone else is probably thinking that too and then he may well NEVER get submitted and we don't want that.

Do not worry about how many submissions your hot guy might have had already--I need to get a sense of who the strongest contenders are in order to fairly seed the draws, and the best way to do that is volume of submissions.

We are voting on the hotness of the characters. While the actors who portray them are of course a major factor in this, we are not voting on the actors themselves, therefore propaganda pertaining to the actors real lives (aside from anecdotes relating to their portrayal of the character) is not admissible.

By that same token, in the case of historical figures (e.g. Henry VIII) we are judging hotness based on the fictionalized portrayals of them in these properties, not on historical fact.

Regarding immortal/time-travelling/dimension-hopping/extremely long-lived characters, regardless of when the character was born, the main action**** of the story must take place within the Medieval Period (see dates listed at the top of this post) or Medieval-esque fantasy fantasy realm in order for them to be eligible for submission. As such, characters like the Pevensie brothers (The Chronicles of Narnia) and Ash Williams (Army of Darkness) are admissible, but Asgardians (the MCU Thor films) are not.

I, as the Administrator and Master of Revels of this tournament, am exercising discretion in the admittance of characters from works by Shakespeare, since many of them have no set date.

Re: characters adapted from books/written works - Book quotes by/ about your character are not admissible as Propaganda for their tv/ movie counterparts unless said quotes were also written into the show/movie.

Book illustrations and fanart are not admissible Propaganda

SUBMISSIONS SHALL REMAIN OPEN UNTIL MIDNIGHT, JULY 1st

The Tourney shall begin at a date yet to be determined with the Melee (Qualifying Rounds), wherein the entrants with the fewest submissions and least propaganda will duke it out in a free for all brawl to determine who will enter the Lists.

SUBMIT YOUR ENTRANTS HERE TODAY!!!

-- Master of Revels

*The "live-action" qualification does have a caveat: exception may be made for those CGI films which were all the rage in the mid-00's that used the motion-capture and likeness of the actors; for example characters from, Robert Zemeckis's Beowulf (2007) are admissible.

** this one doesn't qualify, not because it isn't the right time period, but because it falls solidly under the "Animated" category.

***Yes, sadly we are deprived of the beautiful countenances of Clive Owen, Mads Mikkelsen, Ioan Gruffudd et al because the producers of this film in their infinite wisdom and in an attempt to seem "more historically accurate" chose to set it during the Roman withdrawal from Britain, which occurred in the 5th Century (About a CENTURY earlier than Authurian tradition) and is generally agreed to have ended by AD 410. It therefore does not fall under the Medieval umbrella and is not eligible for submission.

**** "Main Action" here defined as "More than half an hour of a movie and more than two episodes of a series"

[jgoddesstarot]

Pick-A-Pile: Their Career: What Profession or Field is Your Future Spouse In?

👑Check out my masterlist to see all of my pick-a-card readings😊

✨ Visit my shops at Ko-fi.com or J.Goddess Tarot✨

🔮Disclaimer: This reading is for entertainment purposes only. Tarot readings are based upon my intuitive interpretation of the cards and about possibilities based on your current energy. Energy is forever changing and nothing is set in stone. Always remember, you have your own free will to make whatever decision you feel is best.

🔮How I read: I use a mix of tarot cards, oracle cards, along with my intuitive abilities of claircognizance, clairaudience, and clairsentience.

🔮How this works: Close your eyes and take deep breaths, pick the pile you are most drawn to. If you aren’t drawn to any pile then that’s okay, these messages aren’t for you.

Pile 1

Tarot Cards: 5 of Cups, The Lovers, The Hermit (in reverse), Queen of Cups, The Chariot

Ah, my sultry Pile 1's! Embark with me on an intoxicating voyage to uncover the career secrets of your elusive future love.

Picture a soul who's tasted the bittersweet symphony of life. They've endured setbacks, but here's the allure: instead of languishing in bygone disappointments, they've channeled these lessons, forging a path glowing with promise. Like a phoenix, they've taken their setbacks and used them as fuel, emerging brighter and more determined.

Now, imagine them weaving through a world where harmony and connections reign supreme. Their charm lies in the art of building bridges, mending fences, and orchestrating unions. Their profession thrums with the rhythm of relationships, be it in the hallways of legal battles, the nuanced dance of consultancy, or the embrace of human resources. Their every endeavor is painted with passion, fostering environments dripping with mutual respect.

But, the plot thickens. Rather than being an isolated genius, they thrive in the pulsating heart of collaborative arenas. Their days are painted with group dynamics, team brainstorming, and the infectious energy of collective creation. Every project, a harmonious dance of diverse minds.

In this riveting tale, their heart emerges as their compass—a wellspring of empathy, care, and intuition. Whether in the healing embrace of healthcare, the nurturing realms of social work, or the soulful corridors of counseling, their profession beckons to souls in need, offering solace and understanding.

And as our tale nears its climax, the essence of sheer willpower and ambition becomes palpable. This lover is destined to blaze trails, to dominate arenas with a fierce determination that sets the world alight. They are a force, a whirlwind of goals and victories, and their chosen field echoes with their triumphant strides.

To tie this enigmatic tale together, enchanting Pile 1's, your future lover’s career is an exhilarating blend of resilience, harmony, collaboration, empathy, and fierce ambition. This tantalizing mix promises a partner whose professional life mirrors a journey of challenges, triumphs, and heart. As Destiny weaves its tapestry, these revelations hint at the captivating tale of your shared future.

Pile 2

Tarot Cards: 5 of Swords, 10 of Wands, 2 of Swords, Ace of Cups, 8 of Wands

My tantalizing Pile 2's, prepare to embark on a riveting journey, delving into the exhilarating career landscape of your enigmatic future love.

Visualize a realm teeming with cutthroat competition and exhilarating duels of wit. In this world, your future spouse emerges as a master strategist, a maven who thrives amidst the electric tension of challenges. Their arena? Perhaps the high stakes corridors of corporate warfare or the intricate dance of political maneuvering.

Yet, with power comes responsibility. They might be ensnared in a web of weighty expectations, but ah, they wear their burdens like a king wears a crown—regal and undeterred. Every decision, every responsibility is borne with a grace that makes you wonder if they were born for this.

Peering deeper, we find them at the crossroads of pivotal decisions, casting judgments that ripple through time. The gavel of authority, the responsibility of steering ships through turbulent waters, they're at the helm, orchestrating outcomes with a finesse that's nothing short of mesmerizing.

But what fuels this fire? An undying passion, a wellspring of love for their craft. They're not just chasing gold or accolades, but a deeper calling, a passion that lights up their soul. Their realm could be awash with colors on a canvas, the poetic dance of numbers, or the rhythm of heartfelt melodies.

And as the tale unfolds, a whirlwind of motion emerges. Envision them dashing through airports, or fervently connecting with souls across continents, weaving stories, striking deals, or capturing moments at the speed of light. The pulse of journalism? The adrenaline of sales? The world awaits their next move.

In wrapping up our delicious tale, my alluring Pile 2's, Destiny paints your future lover as a formidable force in a world of strategy, responsibility, passion, and ceaseless motion. Their journey promises thrills, challenges, and the sweet taste of fulfillment. As the stars align and tales intertwine, remain receptive, for destiny has its own rhythm, and your dance is just beginning.

Pile 3

Tarot Cards: 10 of Pentacles, 3 of Pentacles (in reverse), 6 of Wands (in reverse), 10 of Swords, 3 of Swords

Ah, my alluring Pile 3's, immerse yourself as we journey into the opulent tapestry of your future lover's career. Let the tantalizing revelations unravel, revealing a narrative you'll surely find hard to resist.

First, picture a world awash with prosperity—a realm where luxury isn't just a fantasy, but an everyday reality. In this gilded domain, your future partner thrives, perhaps manipulating the strings of business empires, orchestrating the ballet of real estate, or mastering the cryptic language of finance. They've crafted an empire, not just of wealth, but of ambition realized and dreams manifested.

But ah, the plot thickens! Every gold thread in this tapestry was spun amidst trials. In their earlier days, shadows of doubt and walls of disregard might have threatened to eclipse their brilliance. Yet, with indomitable spirit, they emerged, carving a niche where their genius could no longer be overshadowed.

Despite the accolades and the tangible trophies of success, there's an enigmatic humility to them. They waltz through the corridors of achievement, not with boisterous fanfare, but with a quiet confidence. They let their masterpieces echo their tales, garnering silent respect from every corner.

As our tale takes a riveting turn, we find them at a crossroads—a dramatic shift that upended their world but paved the way to their destiny. A switch that might've tasted bitter initially, but ultimately led them to their passion, their true north.

And oh, the finale? A heart so vast, so tender. Their profession might echo with the soft murmurs of comforting words, the healing touch that mends broken spirits. Whether in the embrace of healthcare, the sanctuary of counseling, or the comforting realms of social work, their purpose is clear: to heal, to comfort, to uplift.

To wrap up our sumptuous saga, delectable Pile 3's, Destiny paints your future lover as a beacon of resilience, prosperity, humility, transformation, and boundless compassion. Their career is not just a job; it's a testament to a journey of trials turned triumphs. As fate weaves its stories, savor these revelations and remain enchanted by the cosmic dance of love and Destiny."

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[thewulf]

Honeybee || Aaron Hotchner

Summary: hi! Can you write a hotch x reader one shot based on the episode where Hayley’s dad says he still hates Hotch for Hayley’s death in s10 and obviously his words hurt Hotch and hotch then is like obviously really sad and hurt and pulls away from reader unintentionally which starts a argument but with fluff at the end? Like angst / fluff

A/N: Okay this def turned more into a comfort/fluff rather than super angsty/fluff... hope you still like it anon :)

Pairing: Aaron Hotchner x Y/N

Word Count: 3.1k +

Your phone buzzed on the desk that you were working away at. Not thinking much of it you turned it over seeing Aaron’s name flashing on the screen. Heart sinking down your chest you knew it was never a good thing when he called during the middle of a workday. Was it Jack? Was he hurt? Was it Jessica? Does she need some time away from the whole situation? Before you could spiral any further you answered nervously, “Aaron…” Trailing off you didn’t know what to say. You knew what you were getting into when you happily agreed to be his girlfriend six months ago. But these calls still made you nervous.

“Honey… slight change of plans.” You knew he was supposed to be on a flight to Maryland right now working on the next case. He was definitely not supposed to be on the phone with you in what sounded to be like his vehicle.

“Everything alright?” Hesitating to even ask the question you could hear the tension in his voice.

He paused. Everything was certainly not alright, “It’s Roy. Haley’s father. He’s in the hospital. He was arrested for trying to break and enter into a store this morning. Doctors think it’s Alzheimer’s. Jessica needs some help.” He alluded to why he wasn’t on the teams jet to Maryland.

Your heart absolutely broke for the man you’d slowly fallen in love with. He’d been through so much in the last few years and now this? It’s like life was out to get him and couldn’t be stopped, “Oh, my love, I’m so sorry.” Work didn’t seem so important anymore, “Can I help at all?”

He smiled softly hearing your concern through the phone. He just knew by the tone of your voice how much you cared. You cared about everything that related to him. You always understood too. He had to cancel on countless plans on you due to work or something coming up with Jack. You always handled it in grace. He thought you were far too patient with him. And it scared him a little much. What happens when your patience runs out? Would he fuck it up with you? He hadn’t a clue how he managed to convince you to not only go out with him but stay through the shit-show that his life was unfolding out to be.

Aaron never expected for his personal life to explode in his face the way it did so dramatically. He had let the one thing he promised never to happen, happen. His work life bled into his personal one. He’d lost the mother to his son. A woman he once loved so dearly to somebody who had it out for him. It took years of counseling and therapy for Aaron to see it as anything but his fault. Then you came along. Sweeping him right off his feet. He didn’t think he was ready for a relationship, but he decided to try. Especially when he saw the look on your face when he agreed to that first date. Of course, you made the first move, it was so you.

He hated asking you for help, but he needed it desperately. He always used you as an absolute last resort. Never wanting you to feel obligated to his life’s mess, “Can you grab Jack from school? I left the car seat in the house for Jess but she’s going to be busy. I’m going to stay back and help. Team is heading off to Maryland right now.” You heard him sigh through the phone.

“You got it.” You knew the situation was tense, but you couldn’t stop the smile that now crossed your face. It was a big step getting him to accept your help. He often went out of his way to not ask you for help. He didn’t want to burden you, “Jack and I will have the best afternoon.” You said trying your best to reassure him.

“Thank you honey. I’m so sorry. I really am.” Not wanting him to spiral you decided to interrupt him.

“Don’t apologize Aaron. It’s something out of your control. I’m more than happy to help. Please don’t stress yourself out about it. Your team will handle the case in Maryland, I’ll handle Jack. You and Jess help out Roy. Okay?” Knowing you needed to lay out the plan plain and simple for him you were met with silence this time.

“Sound okay Aaron?” You asked again hoping he wasn’t too far lost in his head.

“Yeah, alright. Thank you.”

“You got it. Call me later alright? When you get the chance.”

He nodded his head knowing you couldn’t see him. He knew he needed to give in and let you help but it was hard for him. He was so used to doing everything his way. But for his sanity and Jack’s he knew he had to let you all the way in. Had to, “Sounds good bee. I love you.”

You smiled at the nickname he had given you. He’d initially just called you honey which then morphed into honeybee. That was then shorted to just bee. His bee. His favorite one. You found it adorable, no other man had been so sweet to you like he had been.

“Love you handsome. Talk to you soon.” You clicked the phone off before the inevitable back and forth. Looking at the clock you cursed a little knowing Jack’s school was 45 minutes away and he was out in about an hour. Saying a quick goodbye to your coworkers you slid out of the office an hour too early. You decided to risk it knowing the bosses wouldn’t even likely notice.

Standing outside your car you stood on your tip toes trying to spot the little Hotchner. Knowing he’d be looking for Jess and not you. Waving to him as soon as you saw him he shot you the sweetest little smile and wave before running up to you, “Y/N! You’re here!” He pulled on your shirt in excitement.

Leaning down you gave him a squeeze, “I am buddy! Your Aunt Jess had something come up, so she asked me to come get you. Hope that’s okay.” You grinned down at the overexcited little boy. You and Jack got along so well so quick. He was the happiest little kid for everything he’s had to go through in his short life.

“Yeah!” He hugged your side squeezing tight, “I’m so excited!”

He immediately released the tension you had been holding onto all day. You’d texted Aaron a few times with no response. Worry quickly consumed you by hour three of not hearing back from him. Thankfully Jack was the perfect distraction from your worrying mind, “Hey Jack? What do you say we go home. Get you changed and head to the park. Maybe get some ice cream after?” You asked him as you buckled him into the car seat.

“Are you serious?” His eye grew wide with excitement, “Can I bring my dinosaurs?”

The grin turned into a full out smile feeling his excitement through your body, “You can absolutely bring your dinosaurs to the park little J.”

“Daddy never lets me!” He started laughing knowing he caught you in a catch 22. You’d already told him he could bring them knowing it wasn’t usually allowed.

Shaking your head, you shut the door before climbing into the driver’s seat, “Well, let’s not tell daddy then.” Hearing his snicker in the back seat sent you into a fit of laughter. Who knew one so little could make you feel so much better just through the joy he brought? That was Jack Hotchner. The little light that kept shining.

“Okay!” He clapped his hands together knowing the two of you now had a secret. You knew it wasn’t a great thing for him to pick up on but what was a little white lie? That’s life.

The two of you chatted the entire way home from school and to the park. You’d learned his best friend, Dylan, had a crush on a girl that Jack thought was gross. You tried convincing him that girls weren’t gross, but he wasn’t having any of that.

Jack was too smart for his own good. He told you about how he watched the other kids and always knew what they were going to do before they seemed to know. That was all Aaron shining right through his baby. It amazed you how quickly children picked up on their environment. Jack was no exception, the sponge that he was.

Lucky for you, all the running around with dinosaur’s tired the poor kid right on out. After making him some mac and cheese for dinner he fell asleep right on your lap while watching cartoons. It all felt so right. A domestic life you craved. To be running your hands through his hair as he held on to you fast asleep.

You were woken up by the soft click of the front door. The daylight had completely vanished. Aaron turned on the kitchen lights not expecting to see you and Jack cuddling on the couch just a room away. For as awful as the day had turned out to be the sight before him made him realize it would be okay. He had the right people in his life. He had you.

His sour mood from the shitty day immediately vanishing seeing your sleepy face waking up. Your arms were holding Jack tightly as you contorted making sure he was comfortable. He noticed that. You were always making sure that Jack was okay. You always checked in on him making sure to show that his opinions mattered. He genuinely mattered to you. Just one of the things that made Aaron fall so easily in love with you.

“Hey, you’re home.” You wiped the sleep away from your eyes careful not to wake Jack up. Peeking at the clock you saw it was nearing midnight.

“I’m sorry…” He whispered walking over to the both of you quietly. You shook your head quickly placing your finger over your mouth, “Shh, no apologies needed.” Carefully you shimmied yourself out from underneath Jack. Scooping him up in your arms you went to go put him to bed. Aaron watched in awe as you took control of the situation so effortlessly. Following behind closely he wanted to make sure to tuck his son in as well. While Jack might not have remembered it Aaron cherished every night he was able to spend at home with him sleeping a few rooms away. Even if it was for just a few hours.

You watched as Aaron leaned down whispering a few words to his sleeping boy. He kissed his head softly before pulling the comforter up over top of him. You fell in love with him even further watching the tenderness of the situation before you. Sure, Aaron had his flaws. But so did you. And everyone. Everything else about him made up for the flaws.

Shutting the door behind him you followed Aaron back downstairs, “Everything alright?” You asked moving towards him. Thankfully he didn’t shy away from your touch. Sometimes after more stressful cases he just couldn’t be touched by you. It was all too much for him. You understood, it just hurt sometimes. When all you wanted was to snuggle up to him when he needed space. You caressed his arm through his suit jacket hoping he could feel it through the thick suit.

He opened his mouth as if to say something before closing it. Thinking. The man was always thinking. Overthinking all too often, “No. Not really.” He admitted.

You felt your heart racing. He was confiding in you. It wasn’t like he hadn’t before, but it was a rarity when he did. You’d find him bottling up and shoving his emotions to the side. But he needed you right now, “What happened handsome?” You pressed a little further unsure if he wanted to tell.

He smiled before gently kissing your forehead, “He’s got Alzheimer’s, clearly. Very clearly” He paused before pulling you into his chest.

As much as you loved the feeling you knew that wasn’t it, “That all?” You asked pulling your head out of the embrace.

He shook his, “No.”

You let him just hold you before pressing him further. You knew he would spill in due time, if he wanted to. Never wanting to pressure him you always asked though, “Care to share?”

He took a long breathe in and a steady one out before pulling you over the couch you and Jack were occupying moments before. Pulling you down into his lap you let him sit there and hold you. It wasn’t that often that he was here, present, and fully there. These were moments you prayed would happen more often but never seemed to come around enough. So, you cherished them. Even when they were tenser moments like these.

He sighed knowing he needed to tell you. He had to get it off his chest or he’d keep thinking about it over and over again. Ruminate for no reason, “He kept blaming me for her death.” You knew immediately what he was referring to. Pulling him closer you started running your hands through his hair, just like you had Jack earlier on in the night, “He just… wouldn’t stop. Kept going on about it. How he’d never forget. Even with the damn disease.” You looked at his expressive face as he laid it on you, everything that Roy had laid on him through the afternoon.

“Hon, you know that’s not true right?” You asked quietly continuing to play with his hair. You knew it was a weakness for the man. For both the Hotchner boys you found out quickly and used it against them as often as you could. You just hoped it was helping him, even if it was just a little.

He nodded quickly, “I know. Trust me, I know. It just, he messed with my head.” He didn’t care to elaborate so you simply snuggled in closer to him. Breathing him in. It didn’t matter that he spent his morning in a hospital and the afternoon in somebody else’s home, he still smelled like Aaron. He became your home. Your safe space.

After a few moments of silence, you squeezed his side, “You’re one of the best people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. I get that I didn’t know you back then, but I do know that you were the same. I know how fucking hard you tried to save her. I know how unfair it’s been on you. I love you beyond words Aaron. I just hope you love yourself just a little. You give so much for everyone else. Give a little bit back to yourself too sometimes.”

He listened to your every word before responding. Nodding his head at you, “I’ll try to. I know I’m not the best at it, but I’ll try to.”

“Yeah?” You pulled away from his chest smiling at him.

He nodded giving you a quick kiss on the cheek, “I’m not perfect. I’ll never be. So, you’ll have to call me out when I run back into old habits. But I’ll try. For you. For Jack.”

“Okay.” You grinned giving him a long kiss this time. Getting a little tired of the short kisses that seemed to miss your lips, “By the way, I think your nearly perfect. If that means anything.” You grinned brushing your fingers down the side of his face.

“Honey, that means the world to me.” He returned the favor by gently cradling your face in his hands before kissing you much more deeply this time, “I love you.”

“And I love you.” You grinned in confirmation.

“Let’s get going to bed. Jack will wake us up in a few hours wanting pancakes or something.” Aaron looked at the time getting closer to on in the morning.

You grinned letting him pull you up right out of the spot you’d been occupying on his lap, “Jack’s worth losing sleep over though. I’ll happily make pancakes with him at six in the morning.”

Aaron laughed before setting you down on the ground, “You say that before he tries waking you up then. I take it you two had a good night?”

You nodded in confirmation, “True.” You laughed a little before continuing, “I’m sure he’ll tell you all about it in the morning though.”

He grabbed your hand holding it tight, “In the morning then.”

You yawned nodding your head while leaning into his chest not really caring how clingy you were being. All you wanted was him.

Feeling his laugh, you smiled to yourself. At least you were able to make him smile. You were never the best with words so being able to make him laugh it off or smile in your presence was always a win in your book.

“Let’s get to bed before you fall asleep standing up.” You couldn’t see his expression in the dark, but you just knew he was smirking at you.

“Sure thing.” You didn’t make any effort to move only leaning further into him.

“Alright.” He scooped you right on up in your arms, “I get the hint stubborn ass.” He held you tight not even the slightest bit mad you wanted him to carry you up to sleep. He adored moments like these.

“That’s why they pay you the big bucks boss man.” Sleepily you grinned to yourself knowing you had him there. He was literally paid to observe and predict.

Gently, he laid you down on the bed pulling you into his side ignoring that comment, “Y/N?” He asked seeing if you were still coherent before continuing.

“Yeah?” You answered him still there.

“Thank you for everything today. And in general. I don’t thank you enough.” He gently rubbing a thumb over your hip knowing that was one of your many weaknesses. Truth be told almost anything Aaron did was a weakness for you.

“Of course. That’s what partners do. They help each other when they need it. I love you Aaron Hotchner. Every little bit of you.” Your eyes fluttered closed as he kept brushing his hand over your side. Soothing you right to sleep.

“I love every bit of you too honeybee.” He kissed the back of your head drifting off to sleep right behind you. For as odd as the relationship was with him sometimes you’d never change it. Not in a million years. Especially as you were snuggled up to him in a dreamless sleep.

Taglist: @genius2050 @simp4f1 @buckybarnessweetheart

[diaryofafeministbw]

KVINNA TILL KVINNA FOUNDATION

The Kvinna till Kvinna Foundation is an international organization that has been empowering DRC women since 2009. It calculates that 60% of women in the DRC live below the poverty line and have extremely low levels of political participation. The organization works to gain respect for women’s rights and end discriminatory gender practices. Kvinna till Kvinna helps women participate in learning exchanges that provide education and economic empowerment. It also helps finance certain activities of the Rien Sans les Femmes (Nothing Without Women) movement, a collaboration of Congolese women’s rights activists. By supporting smaller partner organizations in the DRC, Kvinna till Kvinna has definitively lowered gender-based violence against women and has boosted political participation for DRC women. For example, the partner organization AFEM (Association des Femmes des Médias du Sud Kivu) is a collaboration of female journalists. It uses a radio station, Mama Radio, as its platform to empower DRC women.  Mama Radio caught on and AFEM was able to report reduced violence against women.

WOMEN FOR WOMEN INTERNATIONAL

Women for Women International empowers DRC women in numerous ways. Since 2004 it has supported more than 106,000 Congolese women. Its most recent impact evaluation reports increased access to credit, savings and assets.  Second, it reports an increase in women’s ability to pursue entrepreneurship. Finally, it shares that women are benefitting from improved diets and mental health access. In 2022, 256 women received advocacy training in land titling. It also expanded upon its health insurance projects which were able to reduce fees for women and their families by around 50%.

WOMEN'S PEACE AND HUMANITARIAN FUND (WPHF)

WPHF is an international organization that helps empower grassroots organizations to help women become more involved in political affairs. In the DRC, it works with Spotlight Initiative, another women’s rights organization to fund 30 projects that 51 women’s organizations in the DRC spearheaded. These organizations seek to eliminate violence against women and encourage political mobility for women. For example, WPHF supports our GRACE, which seeks to promote gender-based equality and peace in North Kivu. It also supports CAUSE RURALE, which focuses on providing humanitarian aid to reinforce stronger institutions for women.  Finally, WPHF supports AFPDE, in South Kivu and promotes the strength of women’s organizations.

WOMEN, CRADLE OF ABUNDANCE

Women, Cradle of Abundance is a DRC organization. It has been empowering women in the DRC by attempting the eliminate systemic poverty for women. The organization provides physical safety, medical care, counseling and community services for women. It also helps improve education for women and girls by supporting schools for disadvantaged children. Women, Cradle of Abundance provides women with micro-savings and microloans. For example, it has provided 199 microloans to Kinshasha women. This helped them start or expand their businesses.

[jacaela]

Rhaenyra and Aegon anti-parallels

Lifestyles:

Yet Princess Rhaenyra continued to sit at the foot of the Iron Throne when her father held court, and His Grace began bringing her to meetings of the small council as well. [...]He gave her pearls and silks and books and a jade tiara said once to have belonged to the Empress of Leng, read poems to her, dined with her, hawked with her, sailed with her, entertained her by making mock of the greens at court, the “lickspittles” fawning over Queen Alicent and her children. [..] Uncle and niece began to fly together almost daily, racing Syrax against Caraxes to Dragonstone and back. [..] Breakbones (or Brokenbones, as Mushroom had it) filled his place, becoming the foremost of the blacks, ever at Rhaenyra’s side at feast and ball and hunt. The groom was fifteen years of age; a lazy and somewhat sulky boy, Septon Eustace tells us, but possessed of more than healthy appetites, a glutton at table, given to swilling ale and strongwine and pinching and fondling any serving girl who strayed within his reach.

First acts as monarchs:

Her first act as queen was to declare Ser Otto Hightower and Queen Alicent traitors and rebels. “As for my half-brothers and my sweet sister, Helaena,” she announced, “they have been led astray by the counsel of evil men. Let them come to Dragonstone, bend the knee, and ask my forgiveness, and I shall gladly spare their lives and take them back into my heart, for they are of my own blood, and no man or woman is as accursed as the kinslayer. Word of Rhaenyra’s coronation reached the Red Keep the next day, to the great displeasure of Aegon II. “My half-sister and my uncle are guilty of high treason,” the young king declared. “I want them attainted, I want them arrested, and I want them dead.”

People's attitude:

There had been a time when she had been well loved by highborn and commons alike, when they had cheered her as the Realm’s Delight. Neither Aegon nor his brother, Aemond, had ever been much loved by the people of the city, and many Kingslanders had welcomed the queen’s return.

Reasons for support:

Viserys declared his daughter, Rhaenyra, to be his rightful heir, and named her Princess of Dragonstone. In a lavish ceremony at King’s Landing, hundreds of lords did obeisance to the Realm’s Delight as she sat at her father’s feet at the base of the Iron Throne, swearing to honor and defend her right of succession. “Thrice have mine own kin sought to replace me,” Lady Jeyne told Prince Jacaerys. “My cousin Ser Arnold is wont to say that women are too soft to rule. I have him in one of my sky cells, if you would like to ask him. Your Prince Daemon used his first wife most cruelly, it is true…but notwithstanding your mother’s poor taste in consorts, she remains our rightful queen, and mine own blood besides, an Arryn on her mother’s side. In this world of men, we women must band together. The Vale and its knights shall stand with her…if Her Grace will grant me one request.” “King,” insisted Queen Alicent. “The Iron Throne by rights mustpass to His Grace’s eldest trueborn son. Rhaenyra had taken House Baratheon for granted for too long, his lordship told Aemond. “Aye, Princess Rhaenys is kin to me and mine, some great-aunt I never knew was married to her father, but the both of them are dead, and Rhaenyra…she’s not Rhaenys, is she?” He had nothing against women, Lord Borros went on to say; he loved his girls, a daughter is a precious thing…but a son, ahhh…should the gods ever grant him a son of his own blood, Storm’s End would pass to him, not to his sisters. “Why should the Iron Throne be any different?”

Love for remaining children:

She could not sleep and would not eat. Nor would she suffer to be parted from Prince Aegon, her last living son; day and night, the boy remained by her side, “like a small pale shadow.” The old man’s words fell upon deaf ears, however. Queen Alicent had reluctantly agreed to the betrothal of her granddaughter to Rhaenyra’s son, but she had done so without the king’s consent. Aegon II had other ideas. He wished to marry Cassandra Baratheon at once, for “she will give me strong sons, worthy of the Iron Throne.”

Queen Rhaenyra had believed herself victorious after taking King’s Landing, the northman said, and Aegon II thought that he had ended the war by feeding his sister to a dragon. Yet queen’s men had remained, even after the queen herself was dead, and “Aegon is reduced to bones and ashes.”

[j0kers-light]

His Angel: Unexpected Encounter (LedgerJoker x f!reader)

Unexpected Encounter

series summary:

Y/n is secretly a guardian angel with a home base in Gotham City. All of your previous assignments have passed on peacefully and you fail to take on another; much to your counsel's growing concern. You spend your days blending in with the citizens of Gotham until an unexpected encounter throws your entire existence upside down.

chapter summary:

Years have passed since that fateful night. Your fellow counsel means well wishing to assign you a new target, but none feel right. You still harbor that inner fault and nothing can fix what has broken. That is until you venture down below and wind up in an unexpected encounter.

author's note:

ITS TIME!!! I give you the first chapter out of a total of ten for His Angel! This hit me late Wednesday afternoon and I literally wrote this chapter in under two hours. These little fingers were getting it!! It's a great intro chapter!

This series is heavily inspired by the following song. I do hope you enjoy the beginning to a wonderful journey. 🖤✨

Taglist:

@alittlesmartcookie @reneisance @cheetahspy @darthjokerisyourfather @xxrougefangxx

Let me know if you wish to be added to the official His Angel taglist! Be alerted when the story updates! 🖤✨

Next Chapter

A feeling like no other. Excruciating and unfathomable, a constant reminder of how you failed.  

In the blink of an eye, your purpose— what should have been your greatest triumph, was snatched away and in its wake, a well of resentment remained.  

You loathed your negligence and strived to redeem yourself. You scoured the Earth, searching, hoping for forgiveness in the form of reason. Nothing came of it and as time passed, the consensus was absolute. You failed and nothing would change that.  

These halls once brought you a great sense of joy. Warm, gilded, and brimming with purpose, you felt at home as you floated through its labyrinthine corridors.  

You lost such sentiments years ago.  

These days, the sacred walls felt judgmental upon each dead end you came across hence the reason you moved away. The shadow of your former self became too much to bear. You changed, and the counsel was forever understanding of your woes.  

By no means were you banished, in fact—you were one of the most revered angels above. Your reputation preceded you, and none would ever rise to your station. 

And yet, how have you fallen.  

Your footsteps were light against the pristine marble floors. Your time spent living with humans made you forget that you could defy gravity. Walking was just second nature to you now.  

You arrived in an open area where an old friend stood waiting. He blended in so well with the white alabaster stone that you almost didn’t spot him. He didn’t notice your presence and you were quick to change that by striking up a conversation.  

“It is said your ears are the sharpest in the clouds.” You smirked when your friend jumped in fright. “And yet I’ve startled you.” 

The being turned around and graced you with his beauty. One look into his milky white eyes and there was no escape. That is, if you were weak in body.  

Ario knew you were mostly immune to his charm but decided to lay it on thick for old times' sake. You arched an eyebrow at his poor attempt.  

He circled your form twice before bowing at the waist. “What an honor! The Great Y/n graces me with her presence. Still as radiant as ever I see.”    

Centuries ago, you would’ve been flattered. Now, not so much.  

“Cut to the chase, Ario. I am not in the mood.” You sighed. 

“When are you.” He grumbled under his breath. He flew a short distance over to the balcony edge. Vines and ethereal flora crept up the ancient stone making a serene but secluded space.  

A pale finger beckoned you over. You rolled your e/c eyes but urged your feet to move even after Ario eyed you sideways for walking. 

The view was breathtaking. The two of you could see all that was beneath the sea of clouds. Earth from above was simply beautiful. Back in your youth, the sight never failed to make you tear up. Today you took it for granted.  

Your eyes flickered back towards Ario, urging him to speak. He admired the view a bit more before sighing.  

“I see you are pressed for time; I will make myself short. You’ve been on an extended leave for decades Y/n. I worry.”  

You glanced down at Ario’s hand resting on your arm. You could see that he was touching you, but besides that, you were unable to feel the physical contact.  

“Your worry is misplaced.” You jerked your arm away and focused your sights on a little sprite floating near an Edelweiss flower. The sprite sensed your presence and shined brightly for you. 

Ario heard rumors of your drastic change in personality. He thought it was all heresy for you were known by your warm aura and gentle spirit. The woman before him was cold and detached despite standing in one of your favorite grottoes. Something had made you bitter and he wanted to find out what.  

“Y/n. Don’t you find it odd that you haven’t had an assignment in ages? Even you aren’t above reproach. Either something is wrong or....” Ario’s voice trickled off the second you unfurled your wings in anger. 

“Or what?” You seethe.  

Dark as the night, your wings expanded as they blocked out all light in the grotto. The sprites and other animals in the vicinity fled and Ario was forced to turn his head away in humility. You outranked him in every way and deserved respect.  

Deep down you knew Ario meant well. He could simply be a messenger of this bad news. If that were the case, then it was wrong to unleash your frustration on him.  

“Forgive me. I will open my mind to your words.” You took flight for a second to perch yourself on the balcony ledge. A brief compromise if you will.  

Ario smiled at your legs kicking in the air. It was nice to see your whimsical personality still with you. One day he would have his old friend back, he just had to deal with this latest version until then. He leaned on the balcony by your side in earnest.  

“There is an assignment we think is best suited for you.” Ario looked up in shock when you hopped down. “Hear me Y/n!” He called after you.  

He blocked the exit with his wingspan and came face to face with your disapproving frown. Even while displeased, your beauty remained. He wondered who was charming who.. 

Ario knew if you wanted to pass, you wouldn’t have to lift a finger to move him.  

You wanted to hear what he had to say. You returned home of your own accord after so many years away. That had to count for something. Perhaps you were longing for purpose once more.  

Ario used that thread of hope to his advantage.  

“He is doing good for the humans. Fighting crime, purging the city of evil doers..” Ario materialized an assignment scroll from thin air and handed it to you.  

You hardly glanced over it, “He has an armored tank and a military grade suit. Why does he require my protection?” Did the counsel think you were that desperate? A child could protect this human.  

“He’s only one man, Y/n! Just... go observe him for one night. There is no harm in that.” Ario bit his lip and softened his clear eyes. You were stronger than this but…. Ugh! His charm was getting to you, and he knew it.  

You closed your eyes to stop the spell. You needed a level head to make a decision like this.  

The last thing you wanted was a new assignment. Brief flashes of your last charge danced across your memory. You lost your touch. You failed.  

Could you suffer through another failure?  

Years had passed and still it hurt— but you longed to have purpose once again. Your only failure could not define your entire life's work. You protected so many, why did one single human affect you this severely? It was your secret, your burden to bear. Others had made mistakes. Charges sometimes couldn’t be saved.... 

But you didn’t make mistakes. You are the Great Y/n. No one could know you failed a mission. 

However, if you didn’t take an assignment, it was only a matter of time before your status would be called into question. If the counsel made an inquiry... No! 

You were a holy guardian, a protector of life. It was time you returned to your calling.  

With a heavy sigh, you locked eyes with Ario. “Fine, but this is only an observation. I will not commit myself until I feel a connection.” 

Those words would come to haunt you very soon.  

You broke through the ethereal cloud barrier and used the Gotham City pollution as a cover to tuck your wings away. 

It wouldn’t have hurt if someone saw you— there were hybrid humans in the world, but seeing a hawk hybrid is one thing. Seeing a fully realized angel would literally kill a human.  

It was best practice to apply a glamor. One less human pile of goo to clean up.  

You wanted nothing more than to go home to your apartment in The Bowery and sleep off your trip home, but duty was more important, and this was the perfect time to begin your observation. Your potential assignment was a night owl. The Batman, he called himself.  

You rolled your eyes at the dumb title. Humans were such odd creatures.  

His file was of little interest to you. Dead parents, filthy rich, yet he devoted his life to fighting crime. Now that almost made you laugh. For what could one man do to rid the world of evil?  

Absolutely nothing. All of his hard work was in vain.  

You kept that knowledge to yourself. It wasn’t your place to dabble with fate. If you accepted this charge, then you would do your best to guard this little one until his predestined time.  

At the rate he was going, it wouldn’t be long.  

Speaking of time, you entered the bank where Batman was conducting his ‘round of vengeance’ despite the late hour.  

Some humans were screaming while others wearing odd clown masks were either on the floor unconscious or still standing, trying to disarm the bat.  

Batman was just one man yet held his own against a group of five, although one did not seem human to you. There was an unnatural aura about him that made you wary.  

You leaned on a bank counter to watch the strange man laugh and kick your charge. They were ganging up on him yet, you didn’t feel anything. Odd.  

Normally an angel didn’t register pain unless they were a guardian in the presence of their charge. They shared each other’s pain within a certain distance to help the angel sense potential danger. You were in the same room and felt nothing. 

Now you were interested. It wasn’t uncommon for a connection to be delayed but it was ideal for it to occur upon first sight for it to be a successful match.   

Just then Ario’s words from earlier came back to you. “There is an assignment we think is best suited for you.” 

Unique scenarios like this were your realm of expertise. A daunting challenge for others, a mere walk in the park for you.  

Batman blocked each attack hurled his way and managed to even the score in the process. He was left standing toe to toe with the odd-looking fellow dressed in a purple suit.  

His laughter grated your nerves and soothed it at the same time. Your feathers bristled, begging to be outstretched due to the complex feeling.  

“Well Bats! It's just.... you annnnnnnnnnd me!”  

Their conversation about justice and the principle of right and wrong quickly bored you. And Ario wanted you to observe this human for an entire night? You would stay until the connection was made and then leave.  

Granted it was there, although faint— most likely because Batman was fully capable of protecting himself unless he miraculously got caught in a near death situation. You didn’t foresee that happening anytime soon, and definitely not tonight.  

You didn’t have the patience to wait around.  

You were turning to leave (and to reject this assignment) when a sharp blow to your stomach made you double over in pain.  

The counter cushioned most of your fall, but you still wheezed as you—for the first time in ages, experienced pain. Heavens, did it hurt. You did not miss this at all.  

It took you several moments to realize that the bank had gone eerily quiet, and all eyes were on you. Why were the humans staring? 

Stars above, they were staring at you.  

In your moment of shock, your glamor fell. In the middle of an armed robbery. In front of dozens of humans. Could it get any worse? 

You closed your eyes and started checking off the Unexpected Encounter protocols in your head. Blink twice, summon Amenadiel to freeze time. Proceed to erase all human memory of said encounter before.. 

“Whyyyyyyy hello beautiful.” 

Your eyes snapped open. No one was screaming and no one was being evaporated by your angelic aura.  

No, everyone was too busy watching the head robber saunter up to you.  

He had a knife in hand, and a smile stretched grotesquely on his face. Your own cheek throbbed just looking at the jagged scars. They looked familiar somehow.. you struggled to remember from where.  

A quick glance to your right confirmed your worst fear. Batman was lying on the ground, motionless.  

You failed your charge again but that was the least of your worries. This strange man had reached your side and his eyes, the most vivid shade of green you’ve ever seen for a human, was watching you in intrigue.  

They made you lose focus and become adrift at sea. Something was off about this man. A mere human shouldn’t affect you this way, let alone at all.  

He smacked his lips and pushed his hair back before grabbing ahold of your face. You could feel the texture of his gloves.  

You.. could.. feel? Nothing made any sense.  

“Did it hurt?” His words snapped you out of your fog and your guard immediately went up.  

Was this man an angel like you? How did he know about your connection link? You decided to play dumb just to be on the safe side. It could be just a coincidence. You truly hoped it was “What?” You gasped.  

“I saiddd.. did it hurT… when you, ahh, fell from heaven?” He asked.  

Your entire body tensed up. Oh Heavens above, he knew. He knew your secret.  

You knew what you had to do.  

[trainwrecksobserver]

Name Meanings in Trainwrecks

My favorite thing to do when I get a new fandom is to go through the character list and look up what their names mean, and for some reason I haven't done that with Trainwrecks yet. So here we go!

MAIN CHARACTERS

Luna- Latin "moon"

Alexis- Greek "helper, defender"

Cruz- Spanish "cross"

Sebastian- L "from a venerable place"

Velasquez- Sp "crow"

Duke- L "leader"

Earl- Old English "nobleman, warrior"

Kingston- OE "king's town"

Jasmine- En "climbing plant with fragrant flowers"

Nolan- Irish "descendant of the famous/loud one" ; Chinese (nuò lán) 诺 (nuò) "promise; assent, approve", 兰 (lán) "orchid; elegant, graceful"

Dimitri- Gr "earth mother"

Victoria- En "victory"

Hale- Arabic "halo around the moon" ; En "nook, retreat"

PARENTS/FAMILY

James- Hebrew "heel-grabber, trickster"

Carmine- L "song" ; H "garden"

Sophia- Gr "wisdom"

Makoto- Japanese "sincerity"

Leilana- Hawaiian "heavenly flowers ; royal child" (Leila) Ar "night"

Hirashima- J "peace island"

Whitney- En "white island"

Julian- Gr "downy-bearded" ; L "sky father"

Felicia- L "lucky, successful"

Régine- L "queen"

Moreaux- French "dark-skinned, dark brown, black" ; Roman "North African, Moorish"

Ray- En "beam of light" ; German "advice/counsel/decison, protection"

SIDE CHARACTERS

Aliana- Gr "torch/corposant/moon ; sun" ; H/Gr "gracious defender" H/G "gracious nobility"

Sanchez- Sp "son of the saintly/holy one"

Allen- En "little rock, handsome"

Marcus- L "male"

Flynn- I "blood red"

Latricia- L "joy, happiness; nobleman"

Bernice- Gr "bringing victory"

Oak- En "oak tree"

**translation notes**

Some names were a little difficult to translate, because they just mean stuff like "son of _____" or "from _____". In cases like these, I extrapolate meaning from the place or person the name is based on. For example, Sebastian literally means "from Sebaste". But that tells me nothing unless I know what Sebaste means. So I do a bit more research and discover Sebaste means "venerable"; hence, "from a venerable place". Sanchez and the Irish translation of Nolan were like this as well. (Nolan comes from O Nuallán.)

Also, I don't know Chinese, so I had to turn to Google to see what the original spelling/meaning of Jasmine's Anglicized last name might be. Google gave me nuò lán, so that's what I went with.

Several names have been translated from the original language many times. (Dimitri is a good example.) The language I listed by each translation is the original language. If a name has more than one possible origin, such as "Hale", they were all listed. Then you have names like Aliana and Latricia, which are mashups of other existing names (Alice/Alex + Ana; La + Patricia), which makes translation fun and totally not frustrating. Aliana is actually a double fun one because it can be a mashup, or it could possibly come from either the Greek Helios OR the Greek Helene, which have opposite sun and moon connotations!! It actually is fun. I love doing this.

Another rule I put in place was only to do characters who have appeared/spoken so far. This includes Victoria's great aunts, even though they only showed up in a bonus story, but does not include her extended family who were referenced in the same bonus story. They're not really a part of the story. But characters like Latricia Oak, Marcus Flynn, and Allen O. are, so they get coverage. Maybe I'll do the other members of the Hale family (and other mentioned minor characters) in a separate post...

(Wait a minute... Latricia Oak... Allen O... they're both running in sketchy circles... have I stumbled onto something here? 👀👀)

Anyway, I want to elaborate on how the name meanings relate to the characters, but this post is long enough, so that'll have to wait. :)

[thebirdscomeback]

okay, I think it's time to crack open my copy of MAAN and start doing some feminist analysis!

I want to think about how Claudio's accusations demonstrate a deep-rooted misogyny that goes further than slut-shaming (although that in itself is of course horrible) and is based off of pervasive ideas of gender, sexuality and heteronormativity. Ideas so pervasive in fact, that they transcend contextual and historical boundaries and we are left in 2014 with the same misogynistic expectations of women we were dealing with in 1599.

I’ll start with gendered expectations of sex, as inspired by @cardboardsean's awesome post on the topic. If we accept that Hero and Claudio aren’t having sex (which is explicit in the text) then Claudio’s anger takes on a layer of self-righteousness, of ‘deserving’ the sex he’s not getting, from a girl who should, on account of dating him, inherently want sex with him. Taking the idea that Hero’s virginity is something she ‘owns’ and can be ‘lost’ or ‘given’, heterosexual relationship dynamics assert that there is a correct person to whom to hand it over. And while of course cheating would be hurtful either way and in any context, the specifically gendered language and implications of Claudio’s accusation filled with metaphors of spoiled fruit in MAAN and promises in NMTD introduce virginity as a reason why Hero’s supposed transgression is particularly egregious.

Something I noticed more acutely watching this time around in real time is how little we see of Hero and Claudio after they get together. After the makeup tutorial, we hardly see them together as a couple and it seemed odd at first, making the audience feel less connected when we see them fall apart. On closer consideration though, it feels like an accurate representation of the path of their relationship and what is important to Claudio especially. For him, his struggle is getting the girl, and once he ‘has’ her, the hard part is over. Heteronormative ideas of relationships and marriage, where the man has to put in the work of courting and the woman has to put in the work of being the wife leave no expectation for the man to be a husband in any material sense. His job doesn’t require any upkeep of the relationship and this seems to be the figuration Claudio is acting under as well. He doesn’t talk to Hero about their sex life, or his concerns about her cheating; in fact, given his readiness to believe anything of her, it would seem he hardly talks to her about anything at all. It comes back to the discussions a few of the characters have around Pedro’s party. Most of them understand that Hero cannot be ‘had’ as if she’s property, but Claudio never quite seems to get the message. He brings up Hero and Pedro again at Hero’s party; he knows he was wrong but can’t let go of the idea that she was close to being ‘taken’ by another man (again, back to virginity). From Claudio’s perspective, it feels like he believes he won her before Pedro could. And well, if a girl is your property, you can treat her however you like, right?  

Along with her virginity, Hero’s attractiveness is used as another means to prove her guiltiness; a classic means of judging a woman’s morality. Play!Claudio uses it directly as a way to prove just how awful Hero really is, “If half thy outward graces had been placed about thy thoughts and counsels of thy heart!”. Appearance has long been used as a judge for women’s moral character, although there can be no winning (Heflick et al. 2011) (so glad to be paying so much money for university so i can reference my nmtd posts, it's all worth it!). While ‘ugliness’ has been used as a measure for a lack of morality, Hero’s beauty comes to demonstrate just how duplicitous she really is - she's a bitch and looks good while doing it! NMTD uses Hero’s sweet sixteenth as a way of really emphasizing this comparison of beauty and morality; she’s wearing the dress she’s been saving for a special occasion; she’s made herself look particularly pretty and girlish, highlighting a gendered innocence which will make Claudio’s accusation hit all the harder. Her baby blue dress stands in for marital (virginal) white, a teenage version of a bride who is judged primarily on her innocence, beauty and morality in the eyes of her husband.

Within this concept of gendered morality sits the idea that women are inherently sinful, yet something to attempt to keep pure at all costs. The (almost painful) heteronormativity of Hero and Claudio’s relationship comes up here again and Hero’s hyper-femininity, not only in looks but in manner is weaponised against her to demonstrate the extent of her moral failing. She performs her role of girl within perfect expectations – passive, mild and modest – which is used to dichotomise her ‘true’ nature. She appears chaste but in reality she is “more intemperate in your blood than Venus or those pampered animals that rage in savage sensuality”, as play!Claudio tells her. Here, Claudio invokes the highest form of female sexual energy, Venus, to assert the absolute inherence of woman’s untampered sin; not human but animal. And of course, Hero’s niceness means she has to be hiding something – if girls are being too nice they’ve got to secretly be a bitch, “you put on this fake little face. but underneath it, you're just a fucking slut”. Niceness, in a girl, then becomes both expected (god forbid she actually is a bitch) and untrustworthy. The immorality must be hiding somewhere, ready to show itself. And this passivity ties itself back to sex. If a girl is passive then she must be receiving sex from whoever wants it from her, and Robbie represents the perfect stand-in. He has all the normative masculinity Claudio doesn’t – confidence, bravado and sex drive. If Hero is the ‘perfect’ image of female passivity, then Robbie is the ‘ideal’ male figure to use that passivity. And again, Hero is Venus, she must be having sex with someone.

[driftward]

3) fully clothed x stark naked

For witchshield please!

For witchshield? Well, what can I do but oblige. Still making my way through the inbox, and as usual, the work is beneath the cut. Content warning: explicit sex happens

~*~

Y’shtola stepped out of the washroom, having finished her bath, still toweling herself dry. As she began to head towards the bedroom where her clothes were, she happened to look over and see Zoissette, not at all subtly pretending to be spying on her over the top of the book she was supposedly reading. Her eyes trailed slowly from Y’shtola’s head to her toes and back, before locking eyes with Y’shtola and pretending to have just been caught, moving the book up to hide her face.

Y’shtola stopped, and just laughed, crossing her arms to lean against the door frame.

“Will you never tire of these antics?”

“I am certain I do not know what you mean. Also, no.”

Y’shtola just shook her head. “It is well that I enjoy your attentions, but I feel I must needs point out that you see me near every day.”

Zoissette set the book aside, and held out a hand towards Y’shtola. Y’shtola pushed off the doorframe, setting the towel aside, and sauntered over, still nude, to where Zoissette was laying on the couch.

“I see the same ocean, the same mountains, the same plains, for days, sennights, moons in many places,” said Zoissette. “Every day, they are the same in the usual ways I expect. But also every day, they’re a little different. Usually in predictable ways. Sometimes in surprising ways. And every day, they are beautiful, too. So why not you?”

Y’shtola’s smile grew softer as she came close, taking Zoissette’s hands and moving to straddle her on the couch, sitting on her knees, her weight just below Zoissette’s ribs.

“You become poetic when you are feeling sentimental.”

Zoissette ran her hands gently up Y’shtola’s sides, from hip to arm and back down, detouring enough to flutter fingers on the counter of her breasts. “I am always poetic. I just usually keep it to myself. Nobody likes a boor.”

Y’shtola leaned forward a little to place her hands on Zoissette’s stomach. “As though I could ever find you such. But pray tell, what little ways do you see of me?”

Zoissette’s face softened. “Grace. Confidence. That you do not need me to tell me you that you are beautiful.” She picked up one of Y’shtola’s hands in her own, gently pressing a thumb into the palm. “That you move like a dream. That you stand straight and tall, in the face of every challenge. Intelligent, strong, every day, my Shtola.”

Y’shtola let out a little pleased ‘hmn!’. “And what of those things which change?”

“I think you are friendlier than you used to be. No, that is not quite it. More open, perhaps?”

“Such as I have learned from you.”

Zoissette let go, and ran her hand up Y’shtola’s arm, coming to cup her hand against a cheek. “Have you?”

“I am still wont to keep my own counsel, in the end.”

“And I would have it no other way, and could not even if I wanted to. Ever willful Y’shtola Rhul.”

Y’shtola laughed, and ran her fingers up Zoissette’s chest a little. “As if you did not know me well enough by now, and if you could not accept such, more the fool you.”

“But I do.”

“But you do, and so all is well.”

Zoissette rubbed Y’shtola’s cheek a little. Her eyes crinkled a little in wry amusement. “The gentle touch of time. The fine lines of crow’s feet,” and her other hand traced Y’shtola’s side, “some wrinkles for taste.”

Y’shtola huffed, annoyed, her ears folding back slightly as she now sat back and began to cross her arms. Zoissette sat up a bit, her reach giving chase.

“Well now. Perhaps I ought to be insulted.”

“No, no. Hear me out.”

Y’shtola frowned, but did not move further, and Zoissette reached around her. She smiled, an apologetic thing, as her fingers found the base of Y’shtola’s tail, and began to gently massage the sensitive muscles that existed where tail became spine.

“You are attempting to change the subject by mollifying me,” said Y’shtola, her voice going low, as her eyes half-fluttered shut seemingly of their own accord. Behind her, her tail waved back and forth.

“Mollify, a little bit. But, no. I do not want to change the subject. I want to be serious, for a moment.”

Y’shtola looked into Zoissette’s eyes, and she saw an unusual sternness in them.

“We are not young, Shtola. Nor are we yet old, but we do both near our fourth tenyear. I know you have your vanity-”

Y’shtola huffed.

“-and you have your ways. Forever twenty summers, indeed.”

“Merely guidance to live a life well.”

“Yes. I know. We have talked about it before. But we can maintain that vigor, that wonder of youth, and also accept that we are aging.”

“I am in no hurry to join Matoya as a wizened old crone.”

“And yet in Matoya’s countenance, the evidence of life lived. Rather than regret that we are no longer young, I want to celebrate that we are still alive. And I want to see the evidence of that, as it develops. I want… I want to see the lines on your face grow deep. The seasons of the shieldmaiden, as trees turn with the star, as the sands of time flow.”

“I am in no hurry to rush forward and meet the future.”

“Neither am I, but I do want to accept it, as it meets us.”

Deft fingers continued to massage Y’shtola’s tail muscles, and she had to admit, it was very nice. The feeling was radiating out from there, just a plain sense of simple pleasantness, flowing through her body. She uncrossed her arms so they could support her as she leaned forward.

“You call it vanity, but I maintain my appearance for myself and none other. I exult in it, as it is not only a celebration of myself, but a demonstration of my skill in living my life as I see fit.”

“I know. I am not talking about trying to please the eyes of others, but being satisfied with what we see ourselves. You are beautiful to me, and I do not think that will ever change. I do not think that it can.”

Zoissette flexed her fingers, now, scratching. Y’shtola curved her back into it, and made a soft, satisfied noise, bringing her hands forward, to knead gently at Zoissette’s chest.

“And there is still much here to exult in yet,” said Y’shtola.

“I never said there was not. In fact, I think I am trying to say the opposite. I celebrate it, all of it.”

Zoissette dropped her hands, to cup Y’shtola’s ass on either side with a squeeze. Y’shtola walked her hands up, up Zoissette’s chest. She pulled herself forward, until she could comfortably lean on Zoissette’s shoulders.

Gods, she was so much muscle.

“And though our lives are joined now, our early experiences were very different,” said Zoissette, her voice not quite unhappy, but definitely quiet. “I was dead in my twenties, Shtola. Killed in my thirties.” Zoissette shifted, fingers back in the cluster of tail muscles, now, and Y’shtola arched her back, feeling fingerprints of pressure push deep against her muscle. She murred, and the end of her tail twitched with the luxury of attention. “Only as I see my fourth tenyear do I feel like I am remembering to age again.”

Y’shtola placed a hand gently on Zoissette’s cheek, and pushed herself forward, again, this time far enough she had to crawl a bit, until she could comfortably bring the two of them together, and gave her the gentlest and softest of kisses, slow, tender.

One of Zoissette’s hands wandered up the side of her stomach, and fingers played along a breast. Y’shtola made a gentle noise of appreciation.

They separated, and Y’shtola played her fingers through Zoissette’s hair as Zoissette treated her with a small smile.

“You have near made your case,” she said, gently tapping Zoissette on the nose. “Long though our path has been, and not without difficulty. You would remember our age. I would remind you of what vigor you yet have.”

“The two are not exclusive.”

Y’shtola’s tail swayed, slow. Carefully.

“Prove it.”

Zoissette laughed, and pulled Y’shtola down, and they kissed, once more. Y’shtola, bare and naked in the air, Zoissette still in her outfit of the day. Zoissette placed her hands on Y’shtola’s bottom, and pulled her gently, even as Zoissette tried to move herself further down the couch. It took a few moments for them to figure one another out, but shortly Zoissette was rather more directly beneath Y’shtola, and Y’shtola was nearly sitting on Zoissette’s face.

Zoissette’s hands moved to Y’shtola’s hips, strong and firm, and she positioned her to exactly where she wanted her to be. Y’shtola, her legs bent, on her knees so she could more easily control how much weight she brought to bear, allowed herself to be lowered.

And then the kiss, lips meeting. Y’shtola used one arm to steady herself, and the other hand she reached up, to cup her own breast, to knead her fingers into its flesh while Zoissette’s tongue explored her crevasse.

It was quiet in the room. This was not, despite their banter, a moment of vigor and heat. Passion, to be sure, but a slow, patient passion, as Zoissette’s head mouth tongue lips made slow, carefully measured movements. A long slow lick against the labia. The firm push of lips. A kiss to the clitoral hood before retreating again. Y’shtola lifted her head, closing her eyes, facing heaven, while she tried to buck her hips against Zoissette. But despite the far superior leverage she should have been able to exercise, it was Zoissette who was controlling the experience. The firm grip of her hands and press of her fingers informing Y’shtola where she wanted her, and Y’shtola obliging willingly.

A long, slow way of making love. Zoissette only periodically having to tilt her head back to take a breath, before plunging in again. Y’shtola feeling the building of the waves, beginning to push back a bit more, and Zoissette letting her, letting go of control. Y’shtola bucking her hips further. Curling over herself. A moment of not knowing what to do with her hands. Take Zoissette’s hair in them? Take control of stimulating her own clit with her fingers? Keep a hand free to maintain her balance?

None of it mattered, and all of it was lost, as the first full wave pulsed up through her spine and was released from her mouth, as she cried out. In the end, she kept her balance by pressing her fingers through Zoissette’s hair, fingers intwined and tips bearing into her scalp as though her life depended on it, and perhaps it did.

She took several deep gasps, finding herself again, and Zoissette pushed her hips up just a bit, tilting her head so she could breath, so she could speak.

“This is a terrible way to continue a conversation,” she said.

Y’shtola laughed breathlessly. “Are you certain? I fair believe you have made quite the convincing argument.”

“Hmn,” said Zoissette. “Closing statements.”

She pulled her back down, and Y’shtola almost pushed off of her just to be an imp about the matter. But then her tongue was in her again, and oh, the talent that tongue had. Experienced, it knew Y’shtola well.

And while it was strong, and its initial foray eager, it quickly slowed, showing patience, stamina, determination. All those qualities that Y’shtola loved in Zoissette, and loved in their love-making, and it was not long until her eyes were rolled back and she was riding the building pressure again. Zoissette was taking her time, going slow, but not allowing it to ebb at all. Meeting small not quite waves, building them up, and letting them out slow.

The next wave was a crash, and Y’shtola was near certain this one had killed her. As it subsided, and she could hear Zoissette gasping for breath beneath her once more, she allowed herself to be free, to lose herself, to laugh in a moment of true openness.

She let go of Zoissette’s hair, and this time, she did push away, and Zoissette let her go. She shifted, to use Zoissette as a bed, and held herself tight against her, still giggling between breaths.

Zoissette petted a hand through her hair. “I did not think I was that funny,” she said.

Y’shtola just shook her head. “Forgive me, I know not what comes over me,” she said. But she was still smiling, as she rested her head on Zoissette’s chest. “Perhaps it is the culmination of this argument, and the proof is not merely in your words but in your tongue. Perhaps it is the practice that comes with age - and in putting it to use, you make me feel so young.”

Zoissette kissed the top of her head, and she curled up.

“Or mayhaps it is that I must needs shower, again, as someone interrupted me on my way to finding my clothes.”

“I apologise,” said Zoissette. She did not sound at all apologetic.

Y’shtola brought up a hand, to walk two fingers up Zoissette’s chest. “Well. I am not sure I am fully convinced. But, I think on one thought, we can agree.”

She pushed herself up, and looked down at Zoissette, running a hand through her hair fondly.

“I look forward to growing old with you.”

Zoissette pulled Y’shtola’s hand out of her hair so that she could turn her head and kiss its palm.

“That is all I can ask.”

“You may ask for that, and still more. And I may yet deliver it to you.”

“Thank you.”

“Always. Now, though, I find that as this bliss fades a bit, I am rather cold, and shall be taking that wash. This time, might you let me actually get to my clothes?”

“Maybe.”

Y’shtola laughed, a youthful, joyful thing, and she pulled herself off Zoissette, and headed to the washroom.

[iguessitsjustme]

Jack o' Frost Ep 5 & 6 Thoughts

I think you guys were playing a prank on me telling me to watch this show. Was that what happened? Is this payback for all of my cruel polls? Did I deserve this? It’s fine. It’s fine. I am going to try my best to enjoy the final two episodes. Because I need to. THERE IS GOOD IF I JUST LOOK FOR IT and ignore the very bad things. It’s fine. Time to watch:

I don’t blame Ritsu for being hurt by Mr. Lyingface but also why is his response complete and utter avoidance? My guy. Go confront him. Make him own up to his actions. Then you two can talk it out. Or not. It’s not your fault he withheld this from you. But your response to learning about it is not great either.

I don’t care about what’s happening right now but I am VIBING with this music. Guitar and strings? Excellent.

Oh no music went away booooo.

If even the ex boyfriend is like “y’all…need to talk” then perhaps forcing the relationship isn’t a good idea and you should both give yourselves a break. A chance to move on with your lives and be happy.

Wow. Okay. This is a conversation that should have been had before you got to this point of anger my guy. My dude. If Ritsu has been constantly flaking on you and forgetting your dates, this needed to be brought up not in a fit of anger on his birthday. Is Ritsu wrong for it? Absolutely. Should he be making adjustments to make sure he doesn’t flake on you? Yes. Was this the proper response to it happening? No. In this situation they both suck. But I think yelling at Ritsu, on his birthday, while he’s drunk, was not it. Has he even brought it up before? Based on his earlier conversation with Tomoko, I’m gonna say no. That he waited until it reached his boiling point and he exploded. Which is not a productive way to solve issues.

And now Ritsu is acting like a petulant child. Am I supposed to want these two together? Nope. Not unless they get counseling.

Dude. Listen. As someone who is also bad at talking about how I feel…you cannot be this way in a relationship. You just can’t. You have to be willing to compromise and talk about it even a little bit. Otherwise you will not have a relationship. It will either blow up like your relationship with Ritsu did. Or it will fizzle out. If you want something that lasts you have to be willing to open up when you’re hurting. It hurts the other person more if you don’t.

Gotta pause. My coworker is sending memes in the group chat.

Ritsu is right. He can’t fix his behavior if he isn’t told he’s hurting Mr. Lyingface. He can’t reflect on it if he doesn’t know. This goes for before and after the amnesia as well. Do I think he should have to be told to stop flaking on his boyfriend? No. He should try to make sure he’s making time for him BUT sometimes when people get busy, they don’t realize what they’re doing or who they’re ignoring. I have been in both positions of being ignored and doing the ignoring and I gotta say. It’s very easy to not realize you’re ignoring someone. It hurts so, so incredibly bad to be ignored by someone who you love so dearly, but sometimes they just…don’t realize. I say this as someone who shuts down when hurt. I also say this as someone who had someone blow up at me the way Mr. Lyingface blew up at Ritsu. Guess who I don’t talk to anymore. And this is someone I loved a lot. I miss her so much. She remains a part of me. I can’t erase her from me any more than I can erase one of my limbs attached to my body. But in the end, we could not communicate. The same way these two can’t communicate. These two should not be together. They just should not be. It is not fair to either of them if neither can compromise. Sometimes it is best to acknowledge the love. To know it happened. And then to let it go. Keep the memories in your heart and in your soul. But give yourself the grace to find happiness without them.

Anyway time for episode 6 and then I can move on to my next binge of the day.

He’s running again. Ugh the cardio. Maybe I should go on a jog. It’s been awhile.

Fluffy pancakes…mmmmmmmm. Gimme.

SAILBOAT

I forgive everything. This show gave me a sailboat.

I’m indifferent to these two but this MUSIC. Has me in a chokehold.

They’re gonna fuck on that couch again.

Last time they did that, they broke up immediately after.

Well. That’s a show I watched. I hope you guys liked my liveblog. I had fun. Well I had fun liveblogging. This was not my favorite show but it also wasn’t the worst? I hope those two get couples therapy or they will not last. They never really resolved their issues. But I do enjoy writing out my thoughts as I watch things. I will liveblog something else later. Maybe another show from my poll? We’ll see.

[elbertsbabygirl]

Title: A curse by Accident

Fandom: ikemen villians

Note: Hello everyone and for my Jude Wifey's here is my version of His fanfiction but I based it on his curse and special skills so I hope you enjoy it I am sorry if it's not a good reader style I promise to improve more 🥹

Jude jazza x Y/n ( Reader)

Headers and spacers: @natimiles

In the bustling streets of 19th century London, amidst the smoke and shadows of the industrial revolution, there lived a notorious mob boss named Jude. With his sharp mind and ruthless demeanor, Jude ruled the underworld with an iron fist, feared by many yet respected for his cunning. One fateful evening, during a lavish ball hosted by the city's elite, Jude, disguised as the enigmatic 13th guest, laid a curse upon the newborn daughter of a prominent noble family.

Jude: When this girl Turns 18 or older She will prick her finger in a spindle and she will die at that time she pricks her finger.......

Noble woman: Please don't do this to my daughter I beg you.....

Jude: to late old woman she will be the sacrifice for you all * evil laughs*

After Jude's cursed pronouncement, chaos ensued at the lavish ball. The noble family, horrified by the curse placed upon their infant daughter, sought counsel from the city's most revered mystics and sorcerers, but none could offer a solution but to accept what Jude did from the poor infant.

The noble family, desperate to find a solution to the curse that had befallen their daughter, spared no expense in their quest for answers. They sent messengers far and wide, seeking out every mystic, sorcerer, and wise woman rumored to possess knowledge of the arcane.

Despite their efforts, each attempt to break the curse ended in failure. The noble family grew increasingly desperate as the years passed, their once-great household now shrouded in sorrow and despair.

After A few years the young woman became a blossoming hope of her beauty and grace

The young woman became a successful doctor and Graduated from college not knowing who is the one who cursed her the day she was born .. one night she came to her parents and ask...

Y/n: Mom dad am I cursed?

The parents are completely shocked after what they heard from there daughter

Y/n's mom: yes Honey you are cursed that day when you were born he cursed you from an unknown reason .....

The princess looked shock and asked

Y/n : how do I Lift my curse out

Y/n's mom: we tried looking for great sorcerers to fix and lift your curse but it's not working and we failed to find one

Y/n: what's gonna happen to me now!!

Y/n's mom: it's ok honey we will protect you from any harm so don't worry sweetie you will be alright with us

After a long chat the cursed princess sets up and plans a mission to Find the person who cursed her with an unknown reason...... But suddenly her head starts to hurt and a flashback of her Appears

* Flashback on the day she was born*

???:When this girl Turns 18 or older She will prick her finger in a spindle and she will die at that time she pricks her finger.......

* flash back ends*

Y/n: I must find the man who cursed me !!

The next day the princess goes to work when suddenly she got bumped into someone with white hair with a bit of black tips on his hair with a purple cloak on

Y/n: Oh my gosh I am sorry sir did I hurt you

The man looks at her and grinned

Jude: Oh my you are one silly one don't ya....

Jude: you don't need to apologize missy.... It's just a dumb fall

Y/n : here let me help you .......

The princess helps Jude up but his hands felt cold

Y/n : umm why is your hands cold? Is this your normal body temperature.....

Jude: oh you silly missy that's just my dumb body temperature..... And it's just normal so it's fine.....

Y/n : oh I see I better get to work now I hope you take care of yourself

After the princess walks away Jude grinned evily

Jude: nice meeting you again princess you are the target I have been looking for *evil laughs*

He quickly laughs and Goes back to his company and After a few days Jude and princess became good friends and hangout together..... Sometimes Jude will bring his henchmen which is Ellis to have fun but Ellis knew that one day Jude's curse on you will make the things a wrong turn..... Until one day while Jude and the princess are Alone Jude revealed something shocking that made the princess shocked

Y/n: you were the one who cursed me all along....why

Jude grinned

Jude: I just want to take my revenge on ya... Princess

Y/n: what did I do to you...

Jude: you will find out soon once my curse effects you* evil laughs

After that night the princess doesn't want to go out with Jude anymore and she felt betrayed after all his kindness and support she doesn't have a clue that Jude is the one who cursed her all this years....

After a few years one day while Jude is doing his Work as a cold mobster traider Ellis came to Jude with a report....

Ellis: Jude did you still remember the day you were finding the victim who killed your mother ..

Jude: what type of question is that you dimwit

Ellis: I know you are still looking for the Killer who killed your mother ....the one you cursed is not the killer bit instead the killer is still at large....

Jude doesn't believe a thing and laughs

Jude: come on Ellis you stupid or something get back to work.....

At the day of the princess the princess is about to turn 20 and it's the middle of her birthday

Suddenly the princess saw a golden butterfly and follows the butterfly that leads her into the top of the castle tower where one of Jude's henchmen disguised himself as an old man

Y/n: hello there what are you doing

Old man: oh my I am just sewing my socks

Y/n: what is that thing you are sewing on

Old man: this is a spindle would you like to try

Y/n: of course can I try it

After the princess played with the spindle not knowing that when she touches the spindle she will fell into deep slumber for 100 years the princess plays with the spindle and suddenly she pricked her finger mistakenly and Suddenly she felt dizzy and the curse effected her and collapsed and the old man Transforms back into his Original self and reports to Jude about her.....

Henchmen: the curse is activated now my lord

Jude: *evil laughs* that's what she gets for Taking revenge on me she is such a dummy...

At home the noble family noticed that y/n is missing they looked for her and after dew minutes of looking for her they were shocked to see her laying down unconscious ly like she is already in her deep slumber the family had no choice but to accept the fate of there daughters sacrifice and layed her down in her bed and dresses her up in a white clothes and puts flowers in her bed

Y/n's mom: until we meet again after 100 years ( In a sad tone)

As whispers of the curse spread throughout the city, that about a woman who already fell asleep for 100 years begin to spread leading to Ellis Informing it to jude....

Ellis: Jude what have you done....this is not going well but why did you do that to her ...

Jude: Ellis I just want to take revenge on what she had done to kill my mother!!!!

Ellis: Jude I know you are still finding the killer of your mother but she did kill your mother .. Jude the killer is still there and you cursed her accidentally without even knowing that she loved you.....

Jude's eyes widen

Jude: what she loved me?

Jude drops his pen on his desk facing with regret and Dissapointment

Jude: why did I do this to her .... I am such an idiot...!!!!

As whispers of the curse spread throughout the city, Jude watched from the shadows, his guilt weighing heavily upon him. Though feared by many, even he could not ignore the suffering he had caused Determined to find a way to break the curse and redeem himself, Jude embarked on a journey of his own, seeking out forbidden knowledge and ancient artifacts that held the promise of salvation.

During his journey to break the curse and redeem himself, Jude delved deep into the hidden corners of the world, seeking out elusive clues and ancient relics that could hold the key to salvation.

His quest led him to encounter enigmatic figures and treacherous challenges, testing his resolve and cunning at every turn. From darkened libraries filled with forbidden texts to remote temples shrouded in mystery, Jude left no stone unturned in his pursuit of redemption.

Along the way, he faced temptations and trials that challenged his morality and resolve. Yet, fueled by his desire to right the wrongs he had committed, Jude pressed on, driven by an unwavering determination to break the curse and free the princess from her eternal slumber.

As he ventured deeper into the heart of darkness, Jude discovered ancient prophecies and forgotten rituals that hinted at a path to salvation. With each new revelation, he grew closer to unlocking the secrets of the curse and fulfilling his quest for redemption.

But as the forces of darkness closed in around him, Jude realized that his journey was far from over. With danger lurking at every turn, he knew that the ultimate test of his courage and resolve still lay ahead.

After a 100 years past Jude came into the noble familys house where the princesses room is locked with the help of Ellis Jude and Ellis managed to get inside and Jude saw how y/n is in the middle of her curse and Jude felt sorry for it

Jude: I am sorry I love you too y/n even I have no Idea I cursed you you are always will be the one in my heart

Jude entangles your hair and brushes it and cups his hands in your cheeks

Jude: I will break this curse of mine in you and we will be together forever...

With one final vow he leans in and kisses you on the lips and he broken your curse

Y/n: Jude.....

Jude smiles and hugs you

Y/n: I love you more Jude I promise to always be there for you

Jude: me too we will always be together and I will never forget about this love you gave me!

Jude found redemption not only for himself but also in the eyes of the revenge he had once feared and ruled over. And though his journey had been fraught with darkness and despair, he emerged from the shadows a changed man, ready to embrace the light of a brighter future.

This story is for @judejazza I know she likes Jude so much so I hope you like it if you want me to make more of this plss feel free to message me ❤️

[crybaby-bkg]

sᴄᴏʀɴᴇᴅ | ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀ ᴛʜʀᴇᴇ

Bakugou x f!reader Warnings/Tags: unnamed civilian being attacked (not graphic), gun violence against villains, mentions of not drinking alcohol due to trauma, more reader cussing out bakugou! Word Count: 3.8k Minors/blank/ageless blogs DNI!

Main Masterlist AO3

“Remember guys; your past does not make you who you are today. It does not define you.” You inform the group in front of you, wonder if they can see just how fake your smile is, if they can hear the disbelief in your own voice. But they all smile back at you, nodding, whispering encouraging words to themselves and the others around you. 

“That’s it for today. See you guys next Wednesday!” You tell them, standing from your chair as you hold open the door for everyone. They shake your hand and thank you as they make their way out, and when they’re all gone, do you finally release the breath you’ve been holding in. 

After what happened to you, while you physically trained your body to become stronger, you also started taking different counseling courses. In only a matter of time did you have your certifications for mental health counseling. Miruko had reached out to you to recommend you to a battered women’s and non-binary person’s shelter, as a person to help guide those who had also been attacked and hurt. They accepted you, and you’ve been counseling the people coming through here regularly on how to heal and work through their trauma. 

But really—you feel like a fraud. You smile in these people’s faces, hold them when they expose their vulnerabilities to you, tell them how to get better, how to come to terms with being a survivor. But you haven’t done any of that for yourself, now have you? 

You’re pulled out of your thoughts by a certain ringing from your bag nestled in the corner. Its from the radio you had stolen to alert you of certain crimes being committed, positioned on the channel that dealt with sexual attacks and hate crimes. You instantly perk up, pattering over to your bag as you listen in on the report. 

Train station in … Two men … attacking woman … thought to be villain’s … has stopped the line … heroes on duty … report … urgent …

You don’t need to hear anymore, before you suit up and sneak out of the building, ready to put on the mask of being the Red Medusa. 

…

You get there before any hero does, and find yourself on the train after busting out a window in an empty car. You have to go through a few before you catch sight of the villains hovering over an innocent woman, who cowers and sobs on the floor beneath them as they stand over her. It only brings back a torrent of memories that you wished you were strong enough to not let haunt you anymore. 

Get up, bitch, rings in your head, a slimy voice trickling its way down your spine, pools at the base of it, sends chills up your arms. If you turn your head, you think you might still see your attacker, but you ground yourself in the comfort that Miruko smashed his fucking head in all that time ago. You shake yourself out of that, sucking in a deep breath, as you hold your gun at the ready. 

Don’t hesitate, you tell yourself, counting, waiting until the first villain takes a step forward to fire, blasting shards of glass into pieces as the bullet whizzes into the next car. There’s a loud yelp that emits from the man, all three of them turning to you, faces uncovered and eyes ablaze. So were they planning on killing her, since they didn’t care to conceal their identities? Or were they just that damn sure of themselves that she wouldn’t go to the police and rat them out? 

Either way, you don’t let their gnarled faces scare you, the scars and the sharp teeth jutting from the others maw. The first villain stumbles before going down, the wound in his thigh bleeding out profusely, as the woman screeches and backs away from them as much as she can. For a second, there’s a flash of reassurance gracing her features when she looks at you and recognizes the tattoo on your chest, but its quickly wiped away when the second villain goes to pick her up by her upper arm. 

Before he can use her as a shield, you take out both of his knees, barely blinking at the screech that tears from his throat before he, too, drops to the floor. The first one reaches a hand out to you, and you don’t know what his quirk is to prepare, so you shoot him straight through the middle of his palm. Just to be safe. 

He passes out from the pain after a scream, all the while his buddy writhes in agony beside him. The woman stares down at them in horror, before looking to you, as you brush away the glass from your mask. You keep your gun in hand but motion her toward you with the other hand quickly. 

“Cmon, come with me.” You goad her as you open up the door to the car. “We don’t know if they have regenerative powers, so its best we get out of here as soon as we can.” 

The woman only sits on the ground, shaking, her eyes wide and blown out, unseeing. The look is one familiar to you, one that you’ve worn yourself after getting so close to the violence of the world. You just hope it hasn’t touched her in the same way that its touched you. 

You open the car door and walk over to her quickly, kicking the second villain in the knee when he rolls too close to you, ignoring his pained groan as you put yourself between her and the men. She keeps her gaze on you, on the gun, on your tattoo, where your eyes are the only thing exposed in the mask. She doesn’t say anything, even though her body starts hiccuping with sobs that make your heart twist tightly in your chest. You squat in front of her, hiding the gun from her sight as you motion for her to look at you again, and keep her eyes there. 

“I know you’re in panic mode right now, but we have to go, okay? Just focus on me, alright? I got you. I’ll keep you protected.” You reassure her, tone quiet and intimate despite the groaning and screaming of extremities behind you. You reach a hand out to her, slowly, going for her hand, and she lets you hold it, even though she doesn’t hold you back. 

“Okay, let’s get up, now. Slowly, slowly.” You guide her, voice gentle, already aware of how numb she must be from the panic, the fear, how her body has become paralyzed and stiffened like a corpse. But she unfurls from herself, eyes glancing down to the men below her, but you pull her along. 

“Keep your eyes forward, okay? Don’t want you to trip.” You whisper, tugging her to walk in front of you. She’s taller than you and can easily look over your head to see her attackers, but she follows your directions, keeping your hand in hers as she makes her way to the end of the cars. You keep looking over your shoulder to make sure the men are still down, and still don’t feel comforted when you make it to the end of the train and hear the bustle of heroes making their way down. 

You squeeze her hand in yours to get her attention, sheathing your gun as she looks at you. Her eyes have cleared a little, and there’s a bruise forming on her cheek and cuts littering her upper arms and chest you hadn’t noticed before. You swallow, feeling the nape of your neck getting warm as you try to find the right words to tell her. 

“I have to go,” she immediately tries to pull you in, shaking her head quickly as a new wave of panic sets in. “I know, I’m sorry. I don’t wanna leave you in this state, but some heroes are on their way and I can’t be here when they come.” She just keeps shaking her head at you, ears unhearing as tears start to pool in her glassy green eyes. 

“Please don’t leave me. They’ll get up, and they’re gonna hurt me again.” She cries to you, clinging tightly onto your hand. Your heart rate speeds up at the sound of voices coming closer, and you know that its now or never. 

“You’re in good hands now.” You whisper to her, squeezing her hands tight before quickly letting go so she can’t keep you close anymore. You dart off before she can say anything, despite her desperate cries and pleading for you to return, but you hear the voices starting to become clearer and clearer. 

This is the hardest part about being a vigilante—saving people who are still in the height of their panic, still desperate to cling onto the safeness and hope that you bring them. You damn near feel as evil as the bad guys, leaving them in a state like that. But, you can’t get caught. How else will you be able to save the other people who need it if you’re behind bars?

You run on the train tracks, pulling out your civilian clothes as you go. You take not even a minute to switch out, shooting out the camera in the railway before you take your mask off. You hold it in your hands, admiring it for a few seconds as you try to catch your breath. 

This one is all red with black detailing, a large, snarling maw with sharp teeth protruding from it. The material is thick, impenetrable, has bullet proof glass over where your eyes lay, visible. An ode to Medusa herself, for if any man looks you in the eye, there will be guaranteed violence that they have never dreamed of before bestowed upon them. 

You continue your trek to the station, hiding around the corner as you enter the busyness of everyone running around like chickens with their heads cut off because of their late train. Have they not heard of the woman being attacked, or did they just have no compassion? The thought makes your stomach turn, irritation bubbling as you bump into a man who complains loudly on the phone about not being able to miss a meeting. 

You ignore his shout at you, used to the berating names so many weak men have given you, slithering your way through the crowd and up the stairs until you reach the daylight again. Its chilly out, the autumn air starting to settle into your bones as the rush of what just happened settles into your skin, deep into your flesh. 

This is too much at times, you think to yourself as you look around, trying to gather your bearings, but somebody has to do it all. You realize you’re farther away from your shitty apartment than you had realized, and sigh loudly at the long trek you have to make home. Before you get started though, your stomach grumbles loudly, makes a woman passing by on the street look at you with wide eyes before laughing softly, making you nod solemnly with your own chuckle at her. 

Guess you’ll have to eat something first. You (not so surprisingly) decide on a ramen bar, figuring you could spoil yourself just a little since you got paid yesterday. It’s not much, and you hardly scrape by, but its all you have right now and you like your job for the most part. You just wish Miruko would’ve helped you find residence in a place that wouldn’t cost so much after her generous help ran dry after the first six months. 

But you deserve the luxury of extra pork in your ramen, and that’s what you order when you get to the nearest place. You take a tea with it, glaring at the waiter when he keeps insisting on trying their new sake, his persistence earning him a hard glare that makes him scurry away. 

You hadn’t drank since you were with your attacker, and you promised to never make yourself vulnerable like that again. 

You grunt out a barely audible thanks when the waiter returns with your food, hunching over yourself as you immediately start to dig in. Something about shooting people just makes you really fuckin’ hungry, for some reason. You think there may be some kind of psychology behind it, but you really don’t feel like diving into that right now. 

You eat in silence for the most part, humming to yourself with your eyes closed, before you stiffen when someone suddenly sits down across from you. 

“Fancy seeing you here.” It’s Dynamight, both to your surprise and disappointment. You sigh, long and deep, before fluttering your eyes open. He sits there across from you, hands folded in his lap, wearing a muscle tee, a bandage still wrapped around his shoulder. You only blink at him before talking with your mouth full,

“Why the fuck are you following me, weirdo?” You ask around the noodles. Dynamight scoffs in surprise, scrunches his nose up at that. 

“I’m  not the fuckin weird one here.”  He spits back at you, childishly. You only stare at him for a few seconds before slurping the rest of your food, never breaking eye contact all the while. You chew the food in your mouth slowly, swallowing, watching him watch you, feeling a wave of agitation bubbling up in your gut. 

“The fuck do you want now?” You say brusquely, sitting back in your seat now that he’s ruined your appetite. Dynamight frowns at you, before glancing off somewhere behind you. You turn your head, searching for whatever he’s signaling at, before your eyes catch the TV, muted, above you. 

Its the news, talking about the woman who was just captured in the train. Its showing the two villains being wheeled out, the other finally awake and groaning about the pain in his hand. It flashes to the woman, and although its muted, you can read her shaking lips when she says something about saving and the Red Medusa. 

You turn to Dynamight with a smile, appetite suddenly back in full swing. You kick your legs happily, feeling accomplished seeing your name on the news again, feeling like you’ve made a difference once more. You slurp on your noodles, seemingly forgetting about the hero in front of you whose frown deepens at your contended look. 

“This shit is funny to you?” He scoffs, gesturing up to the TV. You only stare at him for a minute before shrugging, swallowing around your food as you sigh. 

“Not necessarily funny, but I do feel,” you pause, searching for the right word as you pick up your tea. “Accomplished, you know? That I saved an innocent woman from being attacked by two scumbags.” You tilt your head at Dynamight, and his eyes jump from your slightly shaking hands back up to your face. 

“So what are heroes for then?” He grunts, lip grit in confusion as he looks down at you where you sit. You shrug dramatically, damn near spilling your tea in the process. 

“You tell me.” You raise your voice more than you should, shooing away the waiter that walks by in concern. “By the time they would’ve gotten there, I’m sure she would’ve been…been,” your voice trails off, throat suddenly running dry as you get a faraway look in your eye. She was already bruised and cut up by the time you got there, her skirt already tattered, the first few buttons of her shirt ripped. What more could they have done to her? What wouldn’t they have done to her if they had more time? If you weren’t there? If the heroes weren’t faster? Would she have ended up like you, like Vanity? Would she…would she… 

“Look.” Dynamight pulls you out of your thoughts with a harsh bite to his words. “You make it really fuckin’ hard to be nice to you—”

“This is nice?” You cut him off, voice dripping in confusion as you damn near choke on your tea. 

“Shuddup.” He puts a finger up to silence you. “You make it hard to be nice when you don’t see the errors of your ways.” Dynamight looks at you disappointedly, but it doesn’t do much to sway you. You only roll your eyes and set your drink down, sitting back in your booth as you fold your arms over your chest, eyeing him up and down. 

“Coming from a hero that makes more than any working class person could ever hope to see in their lifetime. Pretty ignorant, if I do say so myself.” You spit venomously, shrugging with faux nonchalance as Dynamight narrows his eyes at you. 

“I donate half of my earnings every month, but that’s not what we’re here to discuss right now.” He shakes his head at you. You know its true, have seen the articles praising him for his earnest donations. But it doesn’t mean that the system he thrives in isn’t flawed and faulty in every capacity, in every hero, in every mission. 

“So why are you badgering me about right and wrongs, Mr. Perfect fuckin’ Hero?” You bite at him, resting your head on your shoulder, seemingly bored. Dynamight looks agitated for a few seconds before his face unscrews. He sighs, long and loud, slumping back in his seat as he runs a hand over his face in defeat. 

“Because I understand your cause.” He tells you, simply, makes a fuzzy feeling start to fester in the back of your head. “I think its…noble, if anything. Heroes aren’t perfect, we’re all just humans with too much fuckin’ power. But what you’re doing is dangerous and could really get your ass hurt.” His head tilts toward you, and it makes you bristle irritatedly. You raise your hands flippantly in the air, laughing humorlessly. 

“So what do you suggest then, huh?” You ask him with a wobbly grin. “What’s step one in this little reformation plan for the Red Medusa?”  You know you should be lowering your voice in a public establishment like this, but you find it hard to control yourself when Dynamight speaks to you as if you’re just some dumb kid, some idiot girl that doesn’t know what she’s doing. He’s been undermining you since he met you, and you’re fucking sick of it. Dynamight stares at you for a long while with a twisted mouth, as you’ve come to find out he does a fucking lot, before he blurts out, 

“I want you to come to my agency.”

“No.” You immediately shoot back, preparing to stand up and leave him, at the table and with the bill, before he stops you with a hand motioned toward you. 

“Listen.” If you didn’t know any better, you’d think he was pleading with you, with uncharacteristically soft eyes that make you give pause. 

“I want you to come to my agency.” He repeats, eyebrow raising to see if you’d stand this time, but you’re glued to your chair, listening. “I’ve already talked to a few people, some higher ups. We all wanna see if we can get you out on the field in a legal and civilized way, because your need to help battered persons against those who commit evil acts of injustice is respected in my eyes.” 

He nods his head to you, and you feel…not validated—you’d never need validation from a man—but, listened to. Like you’re not just some evil piece of shit just wreaking havoc in the streets for no good reason. You nod to that, however it doesn’t last long when he opens his stupid mouth again. 

“What’s not respected, is your method of madness.” He tells you bluntly, arms folded and you wonder how fast he’s healed since you shot him four and a half weeks ago to not even flinch.   You narrow your eyes at him, growling under your breath as Dynamight tilts his head at you, ready for you to defend your method. Which, said method, involves shooting many, many men when they have either already committed or were caught in the act of committing harm against people. You didn’t kill them though, sheesh. He could give you some credit for that. 

“So—what?” You scoff at him. “This means I’m uncivilized now? I’m barbaric? Shall I start dragging you men around the block by your scalps?” You raise an eyebrow at him, thinking you’d at least get a humorless chuckle from him. But Dynamight doesn’t say anything for a long while, tonguing his cheek as his eyes glance down to where your ramen has gone cold. 

“If I had Miruko tell you exactly what I’m saying right now—I know you’d listen and respect everything she had to say.” He says quietly, and it stings. His words ring in your head, bouncing around the walls, makes your chest clench tightly, your breath catch. You try so hard not to think about Miruko whenever you go around shooting men, turn off the TV when she comes on to talk about how she’s gonna catch this shitty vigilante. You know she doesn’t mean you, just the persona, but it aches every time. 

Did she even know that you did this because of her? Because of her saving you, holding you when you needed it most? Did she know that you did this so everyone could feel safe when being rescued, to know that they wouldn’t be hurt anymore? Did she know that you weren’t just some shitty villain?

“Don’t do that.” You whisper to Dynamight, throat tight as you quickly blink away tears. You wipe at your face hurriedly, sniffling as your eyes fall to the bowl in front of you, staring at your sorry reflection. 

“Think about my offer.” Dynamight tells you more than asks you, slides a piece of paper over that you hadn’t notice him pull out before. It has a phone number and address on it, scrawled in shitty handwriting. You tell him that. 

“Your handwritings shit, asshole.” You hiccup quietly, and you look up to see Dynamight’s lips quirking up crookedly at the corners. 

“Stay safe, dumbass.” He tells you before standing from the table, walking away without another word. You sit there, a mix of emotions overtaking you, feeling numb as you try to mull over your options. You’re gonna have to talk to Vanity about this. 

As you go to pay for your meal, you see there’s a wad of cash under the note. Usually, you wouldn’t accept money from a man, wouldn’t want to ever be in debt to one, but you figure he owes you. For emotional turmoil, crying in your noodles, and making them go cold. You pocket the rest.

Chapter four

please do not repost or rec on tik tok!

tag list: @endlessfreaky @iamaconfusedpan

[steveezekiel]

THOSE WHO FEAR GOD 1

12 WHO IS THE MAN THAT FEARS THE LORD? HIM SHALL HE TEACH IN THE WAY HE CHOOSES.

13 He himself shall dwell in prosperity, And his descendants shall inherit the earth.

14 THE SECRET OF THE LORD IS WITH THOSE WHO FEAR HIM, AND HE WILL SHOW THEM HIS COVENANT.

15 My eyes are ever toward the LORD, For He shall pluck my feet out of the net."

Psalm 25:12–15 (NKJV)

• Fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, the Scripture says (Proverbs 9:10).

- Reverential fear of God leads to a deeper fellowship or communion with Him, which ultimately leads to friendship.

- People who fear God are shown the path to follow in life—the way or path which He has chosen for them to follow. This is revealed to them and they are taught how to tread the path (Psalm 25:12).

- Those who fear God, whom He had revealed the chosen path to, are those who dwell in His goodness or prosperity. The descendants of such inherit the earth (Psalm 25:13).

- God is a friend to those who fear Him. His secrets are made known to them. And He teaches or shows them His covenant (Psalm 25:14). In other words, God cuts a covenant with such who fear Him. He made a compact, a league, or a confederacy with them.

- Secrets are shared with those whom one has a covenant relationship with. Such are covenant friends. Thus, reverential fear is a way to cut a covenant with God—as a believer in Christ Jesus.

- The fear being talked about here is the willingness to obey, do His bidding or command—whatever He said to do.

- Thus, obedience to His commands leads to friendship: "YOU ARE MY FRIENDS IF YOU DO WHATEVER I COMMAND YOU" (John 15:14 NKJV).

READ: Matthew 12:50

- Note: This same fear of God makes your eyes be on Him for whatever you wanted or needed to do (Psalm 25:15).

- God does not want a distant relationship. A relationship from afar cannot be intimate or cordial. There cannot be a fellowship or communion in such a relationship, and God does not want it.

• What is Covenant?

- In the Old Testament, and in the passage of the Bible used as the text of this teaching; the Hebrew word translated "covenant" is "berit". The term was probably derived from"bara", means "to bind".

- Thus, the Word "berit" denotes a binding relationship between two parties in which each pledges to perform some service for the other.

- A Bible dictionary defines Covenant As: Oath-bound promise whereby one party solemnly pledges to bless or serve another party in some specified way.

- The keeping of the promise usually depends on the meeting of certain conditions by the party to which the promise was made (Deuteronomy 7:7,12-26; 8:19,20; 28:1-68; Jeremiah 3:6-8; Hosea 1:1-8).

- Although, in some occasions the promise was made unilaterally and unconditionally. An Example: The covenant God made with Noah called for no human response (Genesis 9:9-17).

- Thus, the term of whatever covenant made or cut by God with anyone is usually based on the condition of perfect obedience. The obedience is always measured by whether the person, the covenantee, keeps God's commands—the instructions of God, the Covenanter.

- Consequently, God does cut or establish a covenant with the people who walk in obedience to His commands. Intimacy or secret counsel is shared with such people by God.

- If God established a covenant with a person, a believer, He usually would bless the person, be committed to the covenant and perpetuated the covenant; and caused it to be extended to his or her posterity.

• The covenant of redemption, which was the first covenant. This was the covenant God the Father made or established with God the Son to redeem the fallen mankind, humanity. This covenant was made before the time began:

9 WHO HAS SAVED US AND CALLED US WITH A HOLY CALLING, not according to our works, BUT ACCORDING TO HIS OWN PURPOSE AND GRACE WHICH WAS GIVEN TO US IN CHRIST JESUS BEFORE TIME BEGAN, 10 BUT HAS NOW BEEN REVEALED BY THE APPEARING OF OUR SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST, who has abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel" (2 Timothy 1:9,10 NKJV).

READ: Titus 1:2

- This covenant of redemption has a lot of benefits or blessings which are stated in the Bible. Obeying or following or living these principles; that is, practicing them, strengthens your relationship and communion with God.

- In addition, there are principles or rules which God emphasizes for an individual believer to do or practice, pay attention to, and should make to be part of his or her life. Such rules also should not be trivialized or joked with (Judges 13:12).

- Obeying and living by the general principles found in the Bible, practicing the Word, is the foundation of whatever covenant God would establish with you. The covenant would mainly be based on your obedience to those specific rules or commands or instructions given to you by God, as an individual believer.

- Authority to use the name of Christ Jesus to deal with the enemy, the devil and his cohorts (Luke 10:19); And ask whatever we want from God the Father (John 16:23); is given to every believer in Christ Jesus.

- However, the secrets of God's covenant, His ways, are shared with those who walk intimately with Him: "HE MADE KNOWN HIS WAYS TO MOSES, HIS ACTS TO THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL" (Psalm 103:7 NKJV).

"HE REVEALED HIS CHARACTER TO MOSES AND HIS DEEDS TO THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL."

Psalm 103:7 (NLT)

• You will not fail in Jesus' name.

- If you are having any ailment in your body as you read this piece, I declare your healing now in the mighty name of Jesus Christ.

- Whatever God had not planted in your life, which is working against your health, such is cursed and totally uprooted in the mighty name of Jesus Christ.

Peace!

TO BE CONTINUED

STEPS TO SALVATION

• Take notice of this:

IF you are yet to take the step of salvation, that is, yet to be born-again, do it now, tomorrow might be too late (2 Corinthians 6:1,2; Hebrews 3:7,8,15).

a. Acknowledge that you are a sinner and confess your Sins (1 John 1:9); And ask Jesus Christ to come into your life (Revelation 3:20).

b. Confess that you believe in your heart that Jesus Christ is Lord, and that you confess it with your mouth, Thus, you accept Him As your Lord and Saviour (Romans 10:9,10).

c. Ask that He will write your name in the Book of Life (Philippians 4:3; Revelation 3:8).

- If you took the steps As highlighted above, It means you are saved—born-again. Join a Word based church in your area and Town or city, and be part of whatever they are doing there. Peace!

[mariacallous]

With just under two weeks left until former president Donald Trump becomes President Donald Trump, Meta has announced that the company will be fully moving its trust and safety teams—the people responsible for enforcing policies around hate speech and disinformation—to Texas. (It will also be rolling back its fact-checking program.) The decision, said CEO Mark Zuckerberg in a post on Threads, “will help remove the concern that biased employees are overly censoring content.”

Zuckerberg didn’t explain why people who live in Texas would be less prone to bias than those who live in California, but that was perhaps besides the point. This was just the latest in a series of moves—including elevating former Republican operative Joel Kaplan to chief global affairs officer and adding combat-sports promoter Dana White to Meta’s board—that seem to indicate the company is vying to get into the good graces of the new administration. In response, President-elect Trump praised the announcement. “Honestly, I think they’ve come a long way—Meta, Facebook, I think they’ve come a long way,” he said, noting that the change was “probably” made in response to his threats against Zuckerberg.

But the move to Texas may have more advantages than just political posturing. Texas is one of two states—the other is Florida—with a law essentially forbidding moderation of a great deal of content on social media platforms. It also has a regulatory system that’s exceptionally friendly to companies. And, as usual, X owner and centibillionaire Elon Musk has led the way.

In September, Musk officially moved X’s headquarters from San Francisco to Texas, where his other companies, Starlink and the Boring Company, are also based. At the time, Musk cited California’s gender identity law as the reason for the move. (Meta’s new policy changes now appear to allow users to assert that gay and trans people have mental illnesses.)

“They're obviously following Elon Musk's lead,” says Nicole Gill, executive director of Accountable Tech. “Just by the signal [sent by] moving their base of operations from what is perceived to be a liberally biased state—it's not—to what’s perceived to be a Republican or conservative-coded state.”

In 2021, following the January 6 insurrection at the US Capitol, the state passed a law that banned social media companies from removing or moderating content based on the user’s political views. State officials could then mandate that platforms keep certain content up in the name of free speech.

Lawsuits challenging the legislation and Florida’s similar law made it to the Supreme Court in 2024, in Moody v. Netchoice. The case has since been returned back to the lower courts, where an appellate court previously ruled that social media companies don’t have the right to censor speech under the First Amendment. But Nora Benavidez, senior counsel at the free speech nonprofit Free Press, says that this environment could be favorable for companies as they roll back content moderation, and could form the legal basis of a challenge similar to Netchoice.

“Executives are doing everything they can to create an environment conducive for actions they want to take, absent review or accountability from actors like our courts or legislators or others,” she says.

Since taking over X, formerly Twitter, Musk has become one of Trump’s most important allies, backing his campaign financially and lending the full weight of his own platform to promoting Trump’s talking points during the campaign. He has since sat in on meetings with foreign leaders with the president-elect, and weighed in on staffing choices for the new administration. Other tech leaders have taken note, cozying up to Trump and donating to his inauguration fund. But even before the election, other tech companies were following X’s lead in rolling back policies and protections that had previously been in place.

For his part, David Greene, senior staff attorney at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, says that Meta and other social platforms would likely have to comply with state laws regardless of location. And relocating staff to Texas doesn’t mean all its supposed moderation problems will be fixed. Bias, he says, can cut both ways.

“Misinformation is really one of many, many, many issues that social media platforms have to deal with,” he says. “Having a moderation team in Texas might raise concerns about bias as well. For example, Texas has laws on the books that make the publication of certain information about the availability of abortion services illegal.”

But Benavidez says Texas’ social media law may not be the state’s only appeal. “Once a company is either headquartered or is doing significant business in a state, that allows them to use that state for jurisdiction in whatever future filings they have,” she says.

In 2023, X filed a lawsuit in Texas against the nonprofit watchdog Media Matters for America, alleging that the group had disparaged the company by pointing out that hate speech and disinformation on the platform ran next to ads. At the time, Texas attorney general Ken Paxton also announced his office was opening an investigation into the organization. A federal judge in Texas refused to throw out the case in August 2024. X has since changed its terms of service so that any lawsuits against the company must be brought in Texas. Federal ones must be brought in the Northern District of Texas, widely viewed as friendly to Musk’s interests. (The judge in the Media Matters case, for example, reportedly bought and sold stock in Musk’s Tesla company earlier in the year, before the suit was brought.)

Meta’s terms of service, unlike its community guidelines, so far remain the same, mandating disputes be settled either in the Northern District of California or, at the state level, in San Mateo County. But that could change.

“The legislative environment, the judicial environment, the gubernatorial environment in Texas is incredibly favorable to executives like Musk, and now Zuckerberg,” says Benavidez.

Gill posits that the regulatory environment in Texas may resemble what companies believe the national regulatory environment will come to look like under a new Trump administration.

“I think that they are looking ahead and seeing an environment that is going to be dominated by a conservative-leaning and kind of extremist administration,” she says. “So they are moving to places where that’s the norm so they can pre-comply.”

Gill also notes that Meta is facing an antitrust lawsuit from the Federal Trade Commission, which a friendly administration could see fit to toss. “By preemptively making these changes that they hope will appease the administration, they may be hoping for a friendly decision in return,” she says.

Meta did not immediately respond to a request for comment.