#H Medina

[fivepercentgodsandearths]

Taken from @thefiveprecentnation Instagram page

[cassiopia-myopia]

Hot Zone Crisis

*Basically, I wrote up an attempt at a history report from data-points, which I’ll list in the tags.*

The 2020’s through the 2030’s saw high temperatures and drought around the globe due to rapid climate change. Southwest United States, specifically the tri-state area of California, Nevada, and Arizona, became known as the “Hot Zone” due to being hit particularly hard. The federal response to the growing climate crisis was heavily criticised and resisted, and resulted in hostilities between the government and the locals of the Hot Zone.

In 2036, an executive order was made to relocate citizens of the Hot Zone into temporary housing under threat of having the regions water shut off. The order, colloquially known as 73-H, forced southwestern families into crowded, fenced in camps, and set the federal government up to take over rare Earth metal mines in the area. Several opponents to the order refused to leave, and many soldiers in the area took exception to being forced off of their land. One such soldier, Colonel Edward De La Hoya, helped to organise a resistance to the perceived government overreach. Roberto Medina declared his own resistance, claiming that he would be putting all of his profits from the local mines towards helping southwesterners continue to habitate the area rather than be forced into government camps. In the wake of Medina’s support, more businesses and mining interests in the area began to contribute similarly.

When the government followed through on their threat and shut off water in the region, Medina and his allies continued their efforts to help Hot Zone inhabitants by ensuring that they would have water by signing a contract with a South American water cartel, MERASUR. Due to fear of shipments, referred to as water fleets, being attacked by government drones, Medina brought the issue to De La Hoya. He took it to his lieutenants and formed a squad of pilots to guard the fleets, called Joint Task Force Ten, or simply JTF-10. In the beginning of hostilities, the government armed the drones they sent as enforcers of 73-H with non-lethal countermeasures. By May of 2037, as the JTF-10 soldiers continued to successfully fend them off and even capture federal military bases in the region, they began to arm them with live artillery rounds.

While tensions rose and engagements grew more violent, some citizens of the Hot Zone resisted the war effort in pursuit of more peaceful solutions. In particular, Air Force Colonel Anne Faraday refused to fight, and instead was one of the foremost figures in helping to evacuate neutral parties from both the environmental struggles and the growing hostilities. In what would later be considered one of the finest moments in oratory history, Faraday gave an impassioned speech on the importance of community and unity in facing the troubling prospect of worsening climate change and increasing automation, “…True courage means facing those fears with conviction instead of cynicism, unity instead of division. Leading the peacekeeping effort with these brave men and women, these "Marshals" of the new southwest has strengthened my conviction that when we are united in purpose, we can overcome any threat.”

Hostilities came to an end on August 20, 2037. U.S. Robot Control moved in on a JFT-10 base in the Mojave in an attempt to capture rebel leaders, specifically Roberto Medina. It was called Operation: Unity. The drones were met with fierce resistance from JTF-10 soldiers, only ending when an explosion was set off, likely caused by JFT-10 fire breaking open the power casing of a government drone. The detonation levelled the base and killed nearly all personnel on site, including Medina and De La Hoya, as well as nearly 900 refugees being sheltered near the base.

An armistice was reached soon after, and reconciliation talks began under Anne Faraday and her group of neutral peacekeepers. A long lasting peace was reached, and soon after what was being called the Hot Zone Crisis would begin the Clawback Era; where people such as Stanley Chen, Ted Faro, and Elisabet Sobeck, influenced by the actions of Medina, De La Hoya, and Faraday, would begin efforts to be environmentally conscious and to start to set their mind towards healing the planet.

*I wanted to do another for the Clawback Era, maybe put together my own series on the history of Horizon, but I haven’t had the motivation lately lmao*

[thiswaycomessomethingwicked]

A burst of agitated whispers erupts from his students, drawing Cristof back into the room.

A whine: ‘Stop pinching me, Vincenzo.’

A hiss: ‘I’m not touching you.’

‘Yes you are.’

‘Am not.’

Ah, Cristof thinks, to be a glorious future leader of the Venetian Republic harassing a potential colleague with chalk. Turning to his students, he finds several with dusty cheeks and marks across their clothes. He exudes an air of disapproval. 

‘Alright,’ he claps hands. ‘Let’s hear it. Vincenzo, since you were so full of gusto, why don’t you start us off.’ 

‘I wasn’t pinching Francesco, maestro.’ The boy declares, standing with an air of authority. ‘He pinched himself.’ 

‘I did not,’ Francesco scowls. 

Cristof points to young Vincenzo’s slate. ‘Read.’

Cristof and his very noble, very serious, very scholarly students who aren’t at all a bunch of miscreants. 

[dyingroses]

Saint Catherine of Alexandria (1597) by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio

Ruggiero Freeing Angelica (1819) by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres

[squishmallowo]

this campaign has been going on since april and it hasn't even reached halfway.. please donate to this

i'm in the uk, disabled, on benefits, living in poverty, and even i could afford to donate to this, if i can afford it then you can too!

[alexissimsblog]

930 Medina Studios 3br/1ba

A simple apartment reno for my "and they were roommates" savefile. Originally home to Austin Wentworth—the flat is now shared by him and two other buddies of his from high school/college.

I wanted to keep it simple, dark colors + greens with splashes of white/cream to fit all of their individual styles. I meant for this to be somewhat of a bachelor pad/hangout spot for their friend group so big open windows to let that natural light in was a must. Honestly, Medina Studios has some of the best lighting in San Myshuno.

Which is why I always have the lights off. There is one light in the living room but its a low light so it doesn't overshadow that natural sunlight :)

Download info under cut! ❥

PACKS NEEDED

growing together, highschool years, seasons, and bathroom clutter kit!

CC NEEDED

house of harlix - orjanic part 1

pierisim - MCM all parts

myshunosun - 2023 tranquil bedroom

clutter cat - sunny sundae part 1 (small candle)

sixam - artz living room (plant small)

novvvas - rahat set (eucalyptus plant)

myshunosun - 2022 dawn living

pierisim - david's apartment part 1

myshunosun - 2023 vanity nook

kaiso - rusti.co living

rvsn - back that glass up

harrie - coastal part 5

harrie - octave part 1

myshunosun - 2022 lottie

harrie - Kichen (nectar glasses)

pierisim - living room mini kit

charlypancakes - insomnia

Madame Ria - Basic Luxe Kitchen (plant 01 Fig)

rvsn - on cloud wine bottle

littledica - H&B wall curved tv

littledica - delicato lounge (focused on you wall light)

rvsn - sip sip hooray bar cart

redheadsims - nintendo switch

charlypancakes - miscellanea stuff pack

harrie - kwatei part 1

littledica - eco kitchen (ceramic farmer sink)

*after some testing please note that the update is causing the ceramic farmer sink from the eco kitchen collection to behave strangely for me. if you are also unable to wash dishes with it, please feel free to change it! :)

nickname - playstation 5

peacemaker - hamptons retreat

taurus design - lilith chilling area part 1

charlypancakes - lighthouse

pierisim - tilable kitchen

awingedllama - nostalgia living

sixam - home office (wall screen projector)

peacemaker - hudson bathroom (dynamic hamper)

myshunosun - luna bedroom

syb - fitness (boxing gloves floor)

syb - fitness (medicine ball)

peacemaker - kitayama bedroom

rusticsims- simple kind of modular life

MTS teknikah - amy's garden plants

syb - crossfit (gym bag)

zulf and hakrabr - lets get fit

syb - traveller

illogicalsims - home office

felixandre - florence part 3 (simowa luggage)

sixam - boho bathroom (botanical beauty stool)

house of harlix - bafroom

littledica - chic bathroom

pierisim - winter garden part 2 (i believe with the new update the windows will show up so yay)

OPTIONAL PACKAGES

zulf - bathroom kit becomes functional

basemental drugs - for ashtray

DOWNLOAD OPTIONS

EA ID: midsapphire

[battyaboutbooksreviews]

🌙 Ramadan Mubarak - Books ft. Muslims

🦇 Good morning, my beautiful bookish bats. To celebrate this Islamic holy month, here are a FEW books featuring Muslim characters. I hope you consider adding a few to your TBR.

❓What was the last book you read that taught you something new OR what's at the top of your TBR?

🌙 A Woman is No Man - Etaf Rum 🌙 Amal Unbound - Aisha Saeed 🌙 Love From A to Z - S.K. Ali 🌙 Hana Khan Carries On - Uzma Jalaluddin 🌙 Yes No Maybe So - Becky Albertalli and Aisha Saeed 🌙 Evil Eye - Etaf Rum 🌙 I Am Malala - Malala Yousafzai 🌙 Exit West - Mohsin Hamid 🌙 Written in the Stars - Aisha Saeed 🌙 The Night Diary - Veera Hiranandani 🌙 Much Ado About Nada - Uzma Jalaluddin 🌙 The Eid Gift - S.K. Ali 🌙 More Than Just a Pretty Face - Syed M. Masood 🌙 Yusuf Azeem Is Not a Hero - Saadia Faruqi 🌙 If You Could Be Mine by Sara Farizan 🌙 Snow - Orhan Pamuk 🌙 Sofia Khan Is Not Obliged - Ayisha Malik 🌙 The Proudest Blue by Ibtihaj Muhammad 🌙 And I Darken - Kiersten White 🌙 The Last White Man - Mohsin Hamid

🌙 Hijab Butch Blues - Lamya H 🌙 The Bad Muslim Discount - Syed M. Masood 🌙 Ms. Marvel - G. Willow Wilson 🌙 Love from Mecca to Medina - S.K. Ali 🌙 The City of Brass - S.A. Chakraborty 🌙 The Love Match by Priyanka Taslim 🌙 A Map of Home by Randa Jarrar 🌙 A Very Large Expanse of Sea by Tahereh Mafi 🌙 An Emotion of Great Delight by Tahereh Mafi 🌙 The Love and Lies of Rukhsana Ali by Sabina Khan 🌙 The Moor’s Account - Laila Lalami 🌙 Only This Beautiful Moment by Abdi Nazemian 🌙 Salt Houses by Hala Alyan 🌙 When a Brown Girl Flees by Aamna Quershi 🌙 Jasmine Falling by Shereen Malherbe 🌙 Between Two Moons by Aisha Abdel Gawad 🌙 Sea Prayer by Khaled Hosseini 🌙 A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini 🌙 The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini 🌙 Unmarriageable by Soniah Kamal

🌙 Home Fire by Kamila Shamsie 🌙 All My Rage by Sabaa Tahir 🌙 The Bohemians by Jasmin Darznik 🌙 Ayesha at Last by Uzma Jalaluddin 🌙 A Case of Exploding Mangoes by Mohammed Hanif 🌙 Chronicle of a Last Summer by Yasmine El Rashidi 🌙 A Girl Like That by Tanaz Bhathena 🌙 Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga 🌙 The Mismatch by Sara Jafari 🌙 Does My Head Look Big In This? by Randa Abdel-Fattah 🌙 You Truly Assumed by Laila Sabreen 🌙 Saints and Misfits by S.K. Ali 🌙 Once Upon an Eid - S.K. Ali and Aisha Saeed 🌙 Tell Me Again How a Crush Should Feel by Sara Farizan 🌙 Alif the Unseen by G. Willow Wilson 🌙 The Henna Wars by Adiba Jaigirdar 🌙 A Show for Two by Tashie Bhuiyan 🌙 Nayra and the Djinn by Michael Berry 🌙 All-American Muslim Girl by Lucinda Dyer 🌙 It All Comes Back to You by Farah Naz Rishi

🌙 The Marvelous Mirza Girls by Sheba Karim 🌙 Salaam, with Love by Sara Sharaf Beg 🌙 Queen of the Tiles by Hanna Alkaf 🌙 How It All Blew Up by Arvin Ahmadi 🌙 Zara Hossain Is Here by Sabina Khan 🌙 Punching the Air by Ibi Zoboi & Yusef Salaam 🌙 She Wore Red Trainers by Na'ima B. Robert 🌙 Hollow Fires by Lucinda Dyer 🌙 Internment by Samira Ahmed 🌙 Against the Loveless World by Susan Abulhawa 🌙 Love in a Headscarf - Shelina Zahra Janmohamed 🌙 Courting Samira by Amal Awad 🌙 The Other Half of Happiness by Ayisha Malik 🌙 Huda F Are You? by Huda Fahmy 🌙 Love, Hate & Other Filters by Samira Ahmed 🌙 Mad, Bad & Dangerous to Know by Samira Ahmed 🌙 Muslim Girls Rise - Saira Mir and Aaliya Jaleel 🌙 Amira & Hamza - Samira Ahmed 🌙 The Weight of Our Sky by Hanna Alkaf 🌙 Nura and the Immortal Palace by M.T. Khan

🌙 As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh 🌙 Counting Down with You by Tashie Bhuiyan 🌙 Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor by Xiran Jay Zhao 🌙 The Yard - Aliyyah Eniath 🌙 When We Were Sisters by Fatimah Asghar 🌙 The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi by Shannon Chakraborty 🌙 Maya's Laws of Love by Alina Khawaja 🌙 The Chai Factor by Farah Heron 🌙 The Beauty of Your Face - Sahar Mustafah 🌙 Hope Ablaze by Sarah Mughal Rana

[matchalovertrait]

A-Z Challenge: Sims Edition

I was tagged by the lovely @purplesimmer455 !! Thank you 💜💜

I'll do my relevant OCs from the Alegría Legacy 😼

A: Ángel Alegría, Antonio Romero, Alex Marino, Alfonso Alto, Alicia Romero

B: Benjamin Moore

C: Cosita Alegría, Carlo Mancini

D: Dulce Alegría, Daniela Maravilla, Dominic Fyres

E: Erick Wade, Esperanza Medina, Enzo Bianchi

F: Francisca Hernández

G: Guillermo Medina

H: Hilary Laurent

I: Irene Quintanilla, Isabela Campos

J: Juliana Romero

K: Kaitlyn May

L: Leslie Caruso, Lewis Mack, Lorena Ochoa

M: Matthew Fyres, Mia D'Angelo-Ramirez, Moira Fyres

N: Noemí Alegría

O: Orange Bailey-Moon

P: Palmira Medina, Pavan Shah

Q:

R: Rubiya Jabal

S: Sofia Bjergsen

T: Teodor Medina, Tina Tinker

U:

V: Valeria Medina-Moore

W:

X: Ximena López

Y: Ynez Alegría, Yoltic Xicoténcatl

Z:

[wanderingskemetic]

"You are Amun, the Lord of the silent,

Who comes at the voice of the poor;

When I call to you in my distress,

You come to answer me,

To give breath to him who is wretched,

To rescue me from bondage...

Though the servant was disposed to do evil,

The Lord is disposed to forgive.

The Lord of Thebes spends not a whole day in anger,

His wrath passes in a moment, none remains.

His breath comes back to us in mercy,

Amun returns apon his breeze..."

Parts from a votive stele of Nebre from Deir el-Medina found in The Complete Gods and Goddesses of Ancient Egypt by Richard H. Wilkinson

[lgbtqiamuslimpedia]

A Sinner in Mecca

Director : Parvez Sharma

Producer : Parvez Sharma

Executive producer : Andrew Herwitz

Writers : Parvez Sharma, Sajid Akbar, Alison Amron

Senior editor : Parvez Sharma

Co-editor : Sajid Akbar, Alison Amron

Cinematography : Parvez Sharma, Husain Akbar

Casts : Parvez Sharma, Hamad al-Mutaani, Maram Alzghoul, Shady Eldanf, Ismail Sarsor, Ahmed Yagoub, etc

Genre : Documentary

Location : Saudi Arabia, USA, India

Year of Release : 2015

A Sinner in Mecca is a documentary film directed by Parvez Sharma. The film was co-produced by Haram Films, ZDF, Arte France Cinéma. The film chronicles Indian-born Parvez Sharma's Hajj pilgrimage to holy city Mecca (Makkah) as an openly gay Muslim.It's the first LGBTQ+ related film that was directed in Saudi Arabia.

The whole documentary is loaded with his personal quest as a homosexual Muslim seeking to reform the religion, that was hijacked by Islamists & Puritanical Muslims. The film is a beautiful examination of one's conflict between sexuality and spirituality. Sharma was well aware of how risky it is to direct a film on controversial topic, where both filming & homosexuality are banned.

A sinner in Mecca film offers non-muslim audience a warts-and-all view of the annual religious pilgrimage (hajj) to Mecca. The film also shed light on Sharma's past life. He also written a book by the same name in 2017.

Plot

Like all Muslims, Parvez Sharma dreamed of fulfilling his Hajj in the holy city of Mecca (Makkah). Unlike most other Muslims, he lives in a sense of suspension, an openly gay Muslim, regarded by many other Muslims as condemned by Islam to a perpetual state of sin. The label “sinner” in this film is also highly political, critical as it is of the ruling House of Saud - the current guardians of 2 holy sites in Islam, Makkah and Madinah.

In one of the early scene, we see Parvez Sharma marries his longtime American atheist boyfriend who is a New York-based musician. He is happily living with his husband in USA, which will likely be perceived as immoral and provocative by many conservative puritan muslims. In another scene, we get to know sharma's mother rejected him for being gay & it has impacted their relationship. He starts to revisit his coming to terms as a gay man and a Muslim.

He starts preparing for his pilgrimage to explore whether someone like him even has a place in the House of Allah. He visits Saudi Arabia in 2011, four months after Islamist Osama bin Laden was killed and seven months after the Arab Spring began. He records his entire journey on an iPhone and two suspended cameras. His footage of the Hajj is a mixture of stunningly beautiful shots from the thousands of pilgrims in a swirling mass around the Kaaba in the middle of the Al-Masjid Al-Haram to the hand held close-ups of the crass commercialism that lies barely 1,000 feet from Islam’s holy sites. It is where the sublime meets the squalid as streams of faithful move between the holy sites. He records his pilgrimage in constant fear of the “Mutaween”, the Saudi Sharia police. He's once again into the closet. The Mutaween police harassed him after finding out he's breaking local laws. He is not sure that he will finish his pilgrimage.

In Medina, where the Prophet Mohammad is buried, Sharma reflects, “Today’s Islam, which has been hijacked by a violent minority, would not be recognized by him.” He clearly shows the Saudi's destruction of its historical sites, since Wahhabism frowns on veneration of locations, as links to groups such as the self-proclaimed Islamic State Da’esh and its destruction of historic and holy sites in Iraq and Syria as part and parcel of the same destructive force that threatens to overwhelm the more moderate forms throughout the rest of the Muslim world with petrodollars and Saudi-funded mosques.

On his “hajj of defiance,” Sharma finds fellowship with Shia Muslims, who are outside the Orthodox Islam and unexpected solace in the confessions between perfect strangers such as Mohammed, who has come seeking forgiveness for his participation in an honor killing. Sharma falls when he circles the Kaaba, only to be helped up by the hands of unknown faithful, a sign, he too, will be forgiven.

Therefore, Sharma is able to come to reconcile his identity as a gay Muslim in one of the most moving sections of the film. When unable to complete his final act of the Hajj, sacrificing a goat to commemorate the sacrifice of Abraham in Saudi Arabia, he moves full circle to India, to complete the ritual, finding the spiritual peace he seeks.

[compneuropapers]

Interesting Papers for Week 10, 2024

Children seek help based on how others learn. Bridgers, S., De Simone, C., Gweon, H., & Ruggeri, A. (2023). Child Development, 94(5), 1259–1280.

Dopamine regulates decision thresholds in human reinforcement learning in males. Chakroun, K., Wiehler, A., Wagner, B., Mathar, D., Ganzer, F., van Eimeren, T., … Peters, J. (2023). Nature Communications, 14, 5369.

Abnormal sense of agency in eating disorders. Colle, L., Hilviu, D., Boggio, M., Toso, A., Longo, P., Abbate-Daga, G., … Fossataro, C. (2023). Scientific Reports, 13, 14176.

Different time scales of common‐cause evidence shape multisensory integration, recalibration and motor adaptation. Debats, N. B., Heuer, H., & Kayser, C. (2023). European Journal of Neuroscience, 58(5), 3253–3269.

Inferential eye movement control while following dynamic gaze. Han, N. X., & Eckstein, M. P. (2023). eLife, 12, e83187.

Dissociable roles of human frontal eye fields and early visual cortex in presaccadic attention. Hanning, N. M., Fernández, A., & Carrasco, M. (2023). Nature Communications, 14, 5381.

Neural tuning instantiates prior expectations in the human visual system. Harrison, W. J., Bays, P. M., & Rideaux, R. (2023). Nature Communications, 14, 5320.

Acute exercise has specific effects on the formation process and pathway of visual perception in healthy young men. Komiyama, T., Takedomi, H., Aoyama, C., Goya, R., & Shimegi, S. (2023). European Journal of Neuroscience, 58(5), 3239–3252.

Locating causal hubs of memory consolidation in spontaneous brain network in male mice. Li, Z., Athwal, D., Lee, H.-L., Sah, P., Opazo, P., & Chuang, K.-H. (2023). Nature Communications, 14, 5399.

Development of multisensory processing in ferret parietal cortex. Medina, A. E., Foxworthy, W. A., Keum, D., & Meredith, M. A. (2023). European Journal of Neuroscience, 58(5), 3226–3238.

Optimal routing to cerebellum-like structures. Muscinelli, S. P., Wagner, M. J., & Litwin-Kumar, A. (2023). Nature Neuroscience, 26(9), 1630–1641.

In vivo ephaptic coupling allows memory network formation. Pinotsis, D. A., & Miller, E. K. (2023). Cerebral Cortex, 33(17), 9877–9895.

Sex-dependent noradrenergic modulation of premotor cortex during decision-making. Rodberg, E. M., den Hartog, C. R., Dauster, E. S., & Vazey, E. M. (2023). eLife, 12, e85590.

Propagation of activity through the cortical hierarchy and perception are determined by neural variability. Rowland, J. M., van der Plas, T. L., Loidolt, M., Lees, R. M., Keeling, J., Dehning, J., … Packer, A. M. (2023). Nature Neuroscience, 26(9), 1584–1594.

High-precision mapping reveals the structure of odor coding in the human brain. Sagar, V., Shanahan, L. K., Zelano, C. M., Gottfried, J. A., & Kahnt, T. (2023). Nature Neuroscience, 26(9), 1595–1602.

The locus of recognition memory signals in human cortex depends on the complexity of the memory representations. Sanders, D. M. W., & Cowell, R. A. (2023). Cerebral Cortex, 33(17), 9835–9849.

Velocity of conduction between columns and layers in barrel cortex reported by parvalbumin interneurons. Scheuer, K. S., Judge, J. M., Zhao, X., & Jackson, M. B. (2023). Cerebral Cortex, 33(17), 9917–9926.

Acetylcholine and noradrenaline enhance foraging optimality in humans. Sidorenko, N., Chung, H.-K., Grueschow, M., Quednow, B. B., Hayward-Könnecke, H., Jetter, A., & Tobler, P. N. (2023). Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 120(36), e2305596120.

Rats adaptively seek information to accommodate a lack of information. Yuki, S., Sakurai, Y., & Yanagihara, D. (2023). Scientific Reports, 13, 14417.

Beta traveling waves in monkey frontal and parietal areas encode recent reward history. Zabeh, E., Foley, N. C., Jacobs, J., & Gottlieb, J. P. (2023). Nature Communications, 14, 5428.

[fivepercentgodsandearths]

Credit: HMedinayouthoffice on Instagram

[darlingshane]

big bad wolff

Pairing: Braxton Wolff x Marybeth Medina

Summary: Passing on a contract is a first for Brax, but there's something pulling at his heartstrings that is far more interesting than the money he was offered.

Content/Warnings: 18+, Explicit, Smut, Vaginal Sex, Dom/Sub Undertones, Alcohol, Associates with Benefits (or something like that).

Word Count: 2k (precisely)

— You can read below or at AO3.

“Hard pass,” Braxton slides the envelope across the table after taking a quick look at his new target. “I don't fuck with law enforcement.”

“That's the line you draw? Thought you were all about the money.”

“I love money. But a man gotta have a code, too. 'Sides Treasury? It'd put a target on my back.”

“She’s an analyst.”

“Still. Working for the federals.”

“What if I double the offer?”

Braxton raises a brow and opens the envelope again to see the beautiful Marybeth Medina in the photo inside.

As tempting as the offer is…

“I'm sorry, Mr. Calhoun. I'm afraid the answer is still no. What did she do anyway?”

“She's got her nose in my client's business like a rabid dog after a buried bone. The only way to stop her from digging further would be to gently put her down.”

“Hm, I've met women like that.”

“I thought you guys were professionals. Can't you make it look like an accident? What would you say if I added another 50 grand?”

“It’s possible, but accidents can get the wrong people asking the right questions, and I can't have that in my line of business.”

“You're a hitman.”

“And you're a two-time slimy lawyer that scours a six-figure representing the scum of the earth that make me look like the Easter Bunny.”

“I have to say, Mr. Wolff, your reputation does not precede you. Mr. Davenport won't be pleased to know you have refused to do your job.”

“Davenport is not my boss. Tell him I said hi.”

He watches Calhoun like a hawk as the lawyer retrieves his cellphone from Braxton's assistant.

“Did you tap it?” He asks once Calhoun has left the premises.

“Who do you think I am? Of course, I tapped it.”

“Good. You tell H to get a detailed list of all his calls, meetings, texts… I need to know where this asshole eats, when he shits, where he does his dry cleaning…”

“The whole gist. Got it.”

“Put a couple of guys on Medina, too. Just in case.”

“I thought that was your job.”

“Yeah, but I'm afraid they're going to double down now. I can't take those chances.”

“You had to piss him off, didn't you?”

“You know me, sweetheart. My mouth runs faster than my brain. I'm a lost cause.”

Later that night, Braxton sneaks into Medina's building. His guys are already staking the place per his orders.

Medina is not home yet when he breaks into her apartment. It wouldn't be the first time he's done it.

In the dark, he pulls out a mini flashlight and RF detector and checks every nook of her place for hidden bugs.

Given their history, he kinda owes her this one. Even if he didn't, what he said to Calhoun is right, he doesn't fuck with law enforcement. At least not in that sense.

He's going through her desk when Marybeth opens the door.

She’s not surprised one bit to find him there when she turns on the light.

“Look what the cat dragged in. Do you ever just wait for people to invite you in, Mr. Wolff?” She watches Braxton, clad in back, putting his gadgets away.

“Hm, sometimes. But it's not as fun.”

“Business or pleasure?” her frown remains firm as she puts her case down, removes her blazer and steps out of her uncomfortable shoes.

“How about both?”

“Some things never change.”

Marybeth rolls the sleeves of her dress shirt and pulls out a bottle of scotch and two ball glasses from the cabinet, as he takes off his leather gloves and sits at the dining table.

That's how their meetings always start – with a bottle of Lagavulin and a formal debrief that follows with them handling their pressing business between sheets.

“I think I have a mole,” Marybeth realizes after hearing Brax's warning.

“How do you figure?”

“Because only me and my boss know about Davenport LLC. We're still gathering evidence.”

“Is your boss dirty?”

“Ray King?” She chuckles a little, “not a chance in hell.”

“Well, whatever you have on Davenport is making them shit their panties.”

“Davenport doesn’t scare me,” she throws back her glass, taking a big gulp of her drink.

“He should. I’ve seen what he does with pretty faces like yours.”

“You think he’d be that dumb to go after me?”

“He came to me, honey. He is that dumb.”

“You could've just called, you know?”

“Had to make sure nobody was listening.”

“Are they?”

“No.”

“Good. Can we move on now to the pleasure part? I had a long day.”

“I just told you one of the most dangerous men on the planet is after you and you’re not worried at all?”

“Oh, I am worried. But he’s not going to show up tonight, is he? Uh-uh. Not as long as I have The Big Bad Wolff on my side.”

“Gotta say, Medina. You were not like this when we met. You went quickly from little lamb to lion.”

“Maybe I was never a lamb. And, you weren't like this, either. It seems that you actually care about what happens to me, Mr. Wolff.”

“Well, perhaps I do. Would that be so bad?”

“Hm, no. Not at all.” She stands up, offering a hand in his direction. “You coming, Big Wolff?”

“Rock ‘n Roll, girl.”

Braxton downs the rest of his drink and takes her hand, letting her lead the way to her bedroom.

Under the warm glow of the night lamp, and Brax’s brazen stare, her hands undo one by one the buttons of her shirt. As her skin comes to view, he pulls out his boots and slips out of his jacket without letting her out of his sight.

There’s no rush, but the thrill is palpable. It lingers in the air. They’ve already gone through this more times than he can count, and watching her undress her body is just as exciting as all those times he’s ripped her clothes apart.

When they're both stripped to his underwear, his hands automatically are drawn to frame her hips, pulling her body flush against his. Marybeth tilts her head, tentatively seizing his mouth slowly, letting her fingers draw the toned slopes of his arms.

Her tongue moves past his lips as her skin comes alive, buzzing under his palms, as his fingertips sink at the curve of her ass.

Brax tries to take control of the kiss, but Marybeth doesn't waver, and brings one of her hands to hold his chin still. She nibbles his bottom lip before sucking it between her teeth to see it turn dark pink after releasing it.

Usually, she lets him be the one in charge, but tonight she's in the mood for something different. There are things outside this room that escape her control, and here with him is the only thing she can get a semblance of power.

“Thought you wanted the big bad Wolff.”

“I want him on a leash,” her hand curls around his throat without squeezing.

“Yeah? What do I get in return?”

“Me.”

He scoffs and licks his lips, “okay, lil lion, show me what you got.”

Marybeth keeps her hold around his neck, guiding him backwards toward the bed until the back of his legs meet the mattress. He lays down on his back, and she crawls on top of him. She braces her palms on his chest, straddles his lap, allowing her hips to gently circle over his crotch.

His hands are automatically called to hold those beautiful hips that shamelessly grind, earning themselves a good hard-on to enjoy.

Behind layers of underwear, she rubs herself over and over, a little faster each time, letting that sweet spot revel in the friction he provides as the inner side of her panties quickly gets coated in her juices.

Locking eyes with her, he’s utterly mesmerized by the unbearable beauty of Marybeth as she bites her bottom lip. From above, she watches him exhale and buck up like an animal between her legs, trying to drill his way into her.

It's a torturous deed, she's aware. There's a fine line between playing with Brax or riling him up, and she's just lightly tapping on it. If she pressed any harder, it'd be like poking that ravenous wolf.

After a long moment, she brings her hips to a halt and reaches back with her fingers to unclasp her bra. As she tosses it aside, she leans forward to gently bite on his lip.

“Good, Wolff,” she grins, tracing the shape of his lips with the tip of her tongue as her fingers slip under the elastic of his boxers to feel his erection. It fills up her fist, throbs as her hand squeezes just a little harder to have his precum wetting the head.

“Hmm,” his lip curls, showing those teeth he's marked on her skin many times before.

Getting him to a point of perfection, she finally rids herself of her panties and pulls down his boxers. His cock jolts on its own when her knuckles graze his shaft. Propped on her knees, she lifts her ass, lines the blunt tip of his cock with her entrance, and sinks onto him.

In less than a second, as usual, he forgets altogether why he came here as her wet ass pussy slides up and down his hardness.

“Fuck me, girl,” he pants as she sinks all the way down, having her divinely, tight opening pressing around him.

Once she's comfortable enough, she angles her body forward, propping her hands on either side of his head, and moves a little faster. First, just rocking back and forth, and then bouncing with practiced ease as Brax fills his eager palms with her ass. Her breasts are so perfectly round and perked, bouncing dangerously close to his face, he can't help but stick his head up to nibble one of them.

Marybeth, smiling mid-moan, holds his head with one hand as he viciously wraps his lips around her nipple. His grunts ripple all over her skin, making her core ache, as he moves to the other boob.

He uses his teeth this time, there's so much she can do to tame that wild beast beneath her, she wouldn't even stop it if she wanted to. After crossing that line, he's all lips, tongue, and paws claiming her body.

His arms curl around her, and before she realizes, he's turning the tables to get himself on top of her and charge the rest of the way. He desperately pushes into her at full force, coaxing her body into submission. The most beautiful cries come out of her as he drives her into madness when his fingers find their way to her clit.

Having his fingers working furiously on that spot, he bites her neck, scrapes his teeth on her jaw before devouring her mouth. He can't bring himself to stop until he's poured every drop inside her. Braxton gasps for air as he comes undone. His cock is still twitching inside her, trying to ride the wave of his orgasm, when her sweet opening flutters around him. All her muscles seize up for a second as a lightning of pleasure travels through her body.

Holding her jaw, he keeps his mouth open against her lips as his breathing catches and the room suddenly goes quiet below the sound of their shared pants. His stomach presses softly on hers, as he lays completely limp and flat on top of her. If someone were to attack right now, he wouldn't be able to even pick up his gun to defend himself or even stand up. He can think of a million ways worse to die than this, to be honest. Given the opportunity, if he had to choose a way to go, this would be it – post-orgasm, still tucked inside the fine depth of her tender walls, as her fingers softly comb the damp hairs at his nape.

[youngjaelee]

Khonsu's anthropoid coffins

Metropolitan Museum of Art, Egyptian Art Collection

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 126

Period: New Kingdom, Ramesside

Dynasty: Dynasty 19

Reign: reign of Ramesses II

Date: ca. 1279–1213 B.C.

Geography: From Egypt, Upper Egypt, Thebes, Deir el-Medina, Tomb of Sennedjem (TT 1), Egyptian Antiquities Service/Maspero excavations, 1885–86

Medium: Wood, gesso, paint, varnish

Dimensions: H of taller coffin: 200 cm (78 3/4 in)

Accession Number: 86.1.1–.2-related

[irene-01]

Boac Marinduque Tourist Spots And Religious Practices

Boac is one of the municipalities located on Marinduque Island. This small town sits on the southeastern portion of the province and is best known for its rural charm and scenic landscapes.

The Casa Real used to stand during the Spanish era and then became the Presidency, in this place the revolutionaries including Captain Hermenegildo Flores and Romegio Medina were killed in 1897. Colonel Maximo Abad and Captain H. H. Bandholtz also signed here on the 1st April 25, 1901 the agreement ending the Filipino-American war in Marinduque.

Tourist Spots

Immaculate Conception Cathedral

The Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish in Boac, Marinduque is a Catholic church established in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who is revered as the immaculate conception free from the stain of original sin. This church is located in Boac, Marinduque, and serves as a center for faith and community service.

As a cathedral, the Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish is one of the main churches in Marinduque where important Church ceremonies and celebrations take place. It is here that various sacraments of the Church such as baptism, communion, confirmation, marriage, and last rites are celebrated.

Apart from conducting religious activities, this church also serves as a center for spirituality and morality in the community. Its aim is to provide inspiration and guidance to believers in strengthening their faith and trust in God.

Through education, celebration, and service to others, the Immaculate Conception Cathedral Parish in Boac, Marinduque continues to give meaning to the faith of its believers and promotes unity and love within the community.

FALLS

Town of Boac have different falls which are:

Panugduan Falls in Brgy. Bantay,Boac, Marinduque

Travelers are drawn to Panugduan Falls in Bantay, Boac, Marinduque, by its enchanting natural setting and serene environs. This is how this entrancing waterfall is described:

Panugduan Falls:Tucked away in the lush surroundings of Bantay, Boac, Panugduan Falls is a tranquil haven that provides a peaceful diversion from the bustle and clamor of daily existence.

The word "Panugduan" comes from a native phrase meaning "a place for bathing or swimming," which is a reflection of the cool streams that trickle down the rocks. The sound of gushing water becomes more audible as you move closer to Panugduan Falls, leading you through luxuriant foliage and towards this breathtaking natural feature. With its gentle descent, the waterfall forms a lovely curtain of water that shimmers in the sunlight, evoking a mystical atmosphere.hiscnaeati in the nearby woodland. Panugduan Falls, encircled by tall trees and lush vegetation, emanates a feeling of calmness and tranquillity, beckoning guests to fully embrace its splendor and peacefulness. At the base of the falls, a naturally formed pool of cool, clear waters makes for the ideal place to swim, wade, or just unwind and take in the serene surroundings. A hidden gem, Panugduan Falls provides a restorative escape for adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anybody else seeking solace in a pure natural environment. Panugduan Falls offers an unforgettable experience that touches the soul, whether you want to explore the lush surrounds, enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, or just take in the beauty of the cascade.

Going to Panugduan Falls.Discovering and connecting with nature at Bantay, Boac, Marinduque allows you to enjoy the peace and quiet of the surroundings, take in the breathtaking waterfall, and make lifelong memories in this dreamy region of the world.

Kabugsukan Falls in Brgy. Tugos, Boac,Marinduque

Kabugsukan in Tugos, Boac, Marinduque: A Calm Sanctuary for Adornments in the Wild** For those looking for a tranquil getaway in the middle of nature, Kabugsukan in Tugos, Boac, Marinduque, is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. Here's a detailed account of this tranquil spot:

Nature's Bliss:The sound of singing birds, rustling leaves, and the calming sound of flowing river surround you as you make your way towards Kabugsukan. The verdant foliage that envelops the surroundings suggests the immaculate splendor that one might discover at this serene sanctuary.

Enchanting Waterways: Kabugsukan's meandering streams and soft water flows that wind through the lush surrounds are some of its best features. The shimmering sunshine is reflected by the glistening waters, producing a captivating dance of light and shadows that enhancesThe place's aura is heartbreaking.

Canopy of Trees:Tall trees provide a shield above Kabugsukan, offering shade and a private atmosphere that enhances guests' ability to establish a closer connection with the natural world. The crisp air and the clean, earthy aroma of the leaves invigorate the senses and provide a break from the bustle of city life.

Calm Pools: Tucked away between the rocks and trees are serene pools with cold water that beckon you to relax by the edge or take a quick dip. Kabugsukan is a great place to reflect and regenerate because of its gentle cascades, which produce a calming soundtrack that puts you to sleep.

Quiet and Alonetime:Time appears to slow down in Kabugsukan, providingyou to relish the occasion and take in the splendor of the natural environment. Whether you're looking for peace and quiet for introspection or a beautiful setting for strolls, Kabugsukan provides a haven where you may reestablish your connection with the natural world and yourself.

Experience the tranquility and beauty of nature while visiting Kabugsukan in Tugos, Boac, Marinduque. Take in the calm and quiet of a location undisturbed by time. It is a sanctuary for people who find comfort in the embrace of nature, where each leaf, trickle of water, and beam of sunlight softly serves as a reminder of the wonder and magic that envelops us.

Hinulugan Falls in Brgy. Sabong, Boac,Marinduque

A hidden treasure in Sabong, Boac, Marinduque, Hinulugan Falls enthralls tourists with its pristine surroundings and tranquil atmosphere. The following describes this breathtaking waterfall:

Hinulugan Falls:Hidden away in Sabong, Boac's verdant tropical forests, Hinulugan Falls is a sight to behold. The word "Hinulugan" is derived from the Filipino word "hulog," which means to drop or fall. This term describes the cascading waters that elegantly descend over smooth rock formations. The sound of falling water greets you as you approach Hinulugan Falls and guides you towards this amazing natural feature. The glistening streams cascade at several levels, producing a breathtaking display of peace and beauty. Encircled by lush vegetation and majestic trees, Hinulugan Falls offers a tranquil that for people who find comfort in the embrace of nature. The naturally formed pool at the foot of the falls is inviting guests to swim in and enjoy the cool, refreshing waters, which provide a revitalizing experience that uplifts the body and spirit.

Hinulugan Falls' serene surroundings make it an ideal place for rest, reflection, and meditation. Hinulugan Falls provides a peaceful diversion from the bustle of everyday life, whether your goals are to take in the beauty of the flowing waters, swim in the immaculate pools, or enjoy a picnic in the peaceful surroundings. A genuinely magical experience, Hinulugan Falls in Sabong, Boac, Marinduque allows you to relax, reconnect with nature, and make lifelong memories in this enchanted area.

Lambingan Falls in Brgy. Duyay, Boac, Marinduque

The Falls at Lambingan, Brgy. Duyay, Boac, Marinduque: A Nature's Refreshing Oasis *

Idyllic Setting:Lambingan Falls is a charming paradise that provides a break from the bustle of everyday life, tucked away in the center of Barangay Duyay in Boac, Marinduque. The falls' serene atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings make it the ideal vacation spot for both adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Cascading Waterfalls:Lambingan Falls is most famous for its tumbling waterfalls, which cascade down the rocks in a number of soft tiers, producing a captivating show of mist and water. Visitors are encouraged to swim in the chilly, crystal-clear waters and enjoy the rejuvenating power of the natural world.

Refreshing Swimming Holes:The swimming holes below the falls are welcoming.fading Swimmers are welcome to submerge themselves in the revitalizing waters. Surrounded by rich flora, the tranquil pools make a gorgeous backdrop for a leisurely dip or a quiet moment to unwind while listening to the sound of rushing water.

Calm Encirclements: Lambingan Falls' lush surrounds contribute to its allure by offering shade and a private feeling that heightens the tranquility of the area. Visitors are transported to a serene and quiet condition by the harmonious blend of nature's sounds, including the rustle of leaves and the singing of birds. *

Scenic Beauty:The sight of Lambingan Falls' tumbling waters surrounded by mossy boulders and vivid greenery will greet you as you draw closer. The way that shadows and light interact, along with the soft murmur waterfalls, produce a vision of calm beauty that stays in your mind long after you've gone.

Community Spirit:Situated in Barangay Duyay, Lambingan Falls is a natural marvel that also serves as a window into the friendliness and kindness of the surrounding area. The residents of Marinduque extend a warm welcome to guests, enabling them to encounter their sincere warmth and friendliness.

An invitation to immerse oneself in the majesty of nature, experience the embrace of the waterfalls, and connect with the serene essence of this wonderful place is extended to all who visit Lambingan Falls in Barangay Duyay, Boac, Marinduque. Time slows down, anxieties vanish, and the little joys in life become the main attraction.

Religious Practices

BILA-BILA FESTIVAL

WHAT IS BILA BILA FESTIVAL?

Bila Bila means butterfly in the local language in Marinduque. The province is known as the “Butterfly Capital of the Philippines” with roughly 11 butterfly farms scattered mainly in the towns of Boac and Gasan. Hence, Bila Bila Festival (Butterfly Festival), is a celebration of butterflies and its conservation as well as the thriving butterfly farming in Marinduque.

WHEN IS BILA BILA FESTIVAL CELEBRATED?

Bila Bila Festival was originally celebrated during the feast of the Immaculate Concepcion – every 8th of December. But because the festival sometimes gets cancelled due to the rainy season, it was eventually moved to the summer month of May during the Flores de Mayo, a special Marian devotion.

HISTORY OF BILA BILA FESTIVAL IN MARINDUQUE

A butterfly event was believed to be first conceptualized by a barangay official who was very passionate about butterflies. The event became a hit and was replicated by other towns.

Eventually in 2002, a municipal ordinance entitled “Tree Farming and Butterfly Propagation Ordinance of 2002” was founded and declared Boac as a sanctuary for all butterfly species and ordered the preservation of the environment to protect them. This ordinance also started Bila Bila Festival. As one of its section states, “Whenever appropriate, the release of the butterflies will eventually become a regular feature of social gatherings, such as weddings, birthdays, baptisms, anniversary celebrations, and will become a regular feature of the traditional “putong” (crown) and welcoming of dignitaries, visitors, and guests

[lacasadelasmunecaspreciosas]

África Zavala Revista H Diciembre 2016

Una mujer normal, así se define África Zavala; es decir, ni sensual ni sexual. Para quien no la conozca, su estelar carrera contempla una docena de telenovelas en donde todavia busca obtener su primer estelar, pero ya ha demostrado su calidad histriónica en el teatro y todavía falta que deje su huella en el cine.

La nativa de ciudad satélite platicó cándidamente con nosotros y mostró su confianza en que al aparecer en H complacerá sus decenas de miles seguidores. Nos confesó que una de sus grandes ilusiones y proyectos en su ascendente carrera artística consiste en actuar con grandes figuras de los escenarios como Flavio Medina y Victoria Ruffo.

Además de su refulgente belleza, África también canta y formó parte de un grupo dirigido por Luis de Llano el cual no tuvo éxito, ¡Nos quedamos con ganas de más!.

Fuente: H Para Hombres Diciembre 2016