#Joshua honored the agreement

[granonine]

God's Grace and Mercy

Joshua 9:24-27. And they answered Joshua, and said, Because it was certainly told thy servants, how that the LORD thy God commanded his servant Moses to give you all the land, and to destroy all the inhabitants of the land from before you, therefore we were sore afraid of our lives because of you, and have done this thing And now, behold, we are in thine hand: as it seemeth good and right unto…

[gcldfanged]

📃 FOR WHOEVER HAND EM OVER

If you slip in a little 📃 I will discuss one scenario that had been living in my head rent free [ACCEPTING]

Aerith: -Jae and Aerith kind of having a deal/agreement that he looks the other way and lets her sneak out of the Cetra Babysitter Squad's (Turk Edition) range to get up to shenanigans. He's actually well known at the Leaf House and acts like he hates kids, but is really good with them since he doesn't treat them like they're simple. He's definitely taught the bullied kids how to throw down. His greatest achievement: Being called "cool" by the orphans but Aerith doesn't let him show off in front of them with his weapons, like his handgun (Jae: IT'S NOT EVEN LOADED! COME ON, THEY CAN PASS IT AROUND-).

He thinks Tseng's one-sided crush on her is hilarious, but he'd never say that to his face ever <- good blackmail material, Aerith *COUGHCOUGH*

Cid Highwind: "UGH, LIBERALS WITH YOUR 78 GENDERS" versus "OK BOOMER, SURE YOU GOT YOUR COLOSTOMY BAG ON PROPERLY???"

Cloud: Two guys who honestly just fucking HATE each other, Jae is well aware he's not a SOLDIER and recognizes him from a Before Crisis timeline escort mission which puts a damper on Cloud's 'I'm the Main Character" act.

Jae is not at all interested in Cloud, but makes faux-flirtatious banter with him anyway because the way Cloud reacts is funny as fuck.

Sephiroth: Idk man, like just DESTROY Jae- Kick him like he is the football!! I never get to write Jae getting the shit kicked out of him, it's fun.

Tseng: Big Bro and annoying younger sibling energies, but make it between Team Leader and Coworker. They talk shit about each other all the time, but as soon as someone unrelated makes a disparaging comment, they're like "HEY, PAL- ONLY I GET TO CALL THEM STUPID NAMES".

Zack: OOOH, OOOH- Jae was there and stayed behind to destroy evidence of the Nibelheim Incident with Verdot, Zack could remember seeing Jae and Veld before he passes out and associates them with Shinra baddies/maybe gets angry and tries to fight him when they meet up in remake continuity?

Dion: Bahamut, King of the Gays meets weird little scrungly assassin man who works with The Undying, Jae is totally the one who kicked his soldier through the tent entrance- Joshua is too Nice(tm) for that.

Jae doesn't have to be Leviathan's dominant in this AU since idk how the DLC is gonna fuck it up, or we COULD go with that and have fabulous laser dragon + twink water snek whombo-combo fighting together against Ultima and his weird Oedipus-complex himbo goth, Barnabas.

Jill: Maybe Jae helps Clive save Jill and is a Gav-like rogueish companion as they travel? Can be Levi dominant or not, but I think that's funny because they'd be the elemental trio of "fire", "water", and "water, but like, really cold bruh". THERE CAN BE ONLY ONE! j/k

Sleipnir: I just like the idea of them being totally obnoxious at each other since they have similar-ish personalities, like Clive and Barnabas are fighting all macho manly man beeg swordboner style and then you have the two fucking smarmy twinks strutting around and Shady Lady-ing at each other.

Terence Bellerose: If we're roping in @phoenixshards, then I can see Joshua and Dion having tea and calmly discussing the threat at large while Terence and Jae glower at each other from across the room all "OH, HE'S PRETTY... PRETTIER THAN ME?!" style over their respective boyfriends. THE SHIELDS ARE FIGHTIIING-

Or idk Terence is a little weirded out Joshua has a literal criminal as his Shield and Jae's underworld funk vibes get up his knightly snoot. He's a man of honor, Jae is the exact opposite- Sparks may fly?

[carolap53]

Keeping Oaths TGIF Today God Is First Volume 1 by Os Hillman

10/31/2023

"This is what we will do to them: We will let them live, so that wrath will not fall on us for breaking the oath we swore to them." Joshua 9:20 Joshua and the people of Israel were in the Promised Land. They were winning battles and were feeling good about their progress. One day a band of Gibeonites came by dressed as travelers in order to fool Joshua. They wanted to make Joshua believe they were merely travelers instead of enemies. The Gibeonites asked Joshua to make a peace treaty with them. Since Joshua chose to believe their story, he did just that. That was a mistake on Joshua's part. The Bible says Joshua did not inquire of the Lord about the Gibeonites. This forced Joshua to uphold the peace treaty with the Gibeonites, even though it was made under false pretenses. Keeping our oaths before the Lord is a serious matter. One might think that Joshua had every right to consider the agreement with the Gibeonites null and void since it was done on false pretense. However, Joshua knew how God viewed oaths. He knew that a man's word, once it was given, should be good as done. There was no reversing it. He also knew that if he did not keep his oath, he was subject to God's disfavor, which meant his ways would not be blessed. Whenever we become a child of God, we represent Him. When His children follow unrighteousness, He takes this personally. Unrighteousness opens us up to satan's attack. God's protection shield is removed. So Joshua knew that if he did not honor his oath, he would be subject to God's judgment. Is there any unfulfilled oath you have made to anyone? Ask God this morning if you have not fulfilled a commitment to anyone. Then, if there is, go and fulfill. Otherwise, you will be subject to God's judgment for your unrighteousness.

[cathygeha]

REVIEW

The Lady Takes It All by Terri Brisbin

Unexpected Heirs of Scotland 1

 Having visited Edinburgh last year made this story come alive in a special way. The narrow streets on hills, high buildings, and history seen there was fun to revisit in this historical romance set in the early 19th century.

 Another part of the story that hit home was the archaeological finds Joshua made and having visited several old Roman ruins in a variety of Arab countries. Hearing about the city in the sand reminded me of my husband telling my daughter and I that when he worked in Tyre long ago, he used to walk across the necropolis covered by sand…the necropolis that had been unearthed that we were playing tourist within.

 With the looting of artifacts, we have seen recently in the world…a secret find that is being searched for by those wanting a treasure map or lies told to gain prestige about a huge archaeological find seemed all too real. Then throw in a romance that includes an enemy to lover’s element and you have a story well worth reading.

 That the housekeeper was misrepresenting herself and hated Joshua was a given but how she changed and how he came to see and want her was as fun as Pottles, the butler, dealing with his own issues with the unwanted housekeeper.

 This is the first complete novel I have read by this author, and I will definitely be looking for other books by her in the future.

 Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade for the ARC – This is my honest review.

 5 Stars

     BLURB

 When lies of the past are exposed, can love find the truth?

 The Explorer – Joshua Robertson, a minor diplomat with distant noble connections, traveled the world in service to the Crown until he made his name with the amazing discovery of a buried Roman town in Northern Africa. However, rumors and innuendo threatened both his reputation and his work until he unexpectedly inherits a title and some lands from a distant relative. Now, protected by the title, no honorable man would raise the questions that plagued him from his past—questions about a partner who was cheated and never shared in the glory of the discoveries. Rumors of thievery and scandal and worse. Certainly, no man would, but a woman might. And does.

 The Adversary — Arabella MacGibbon spent her childhood watching her father’s decline and death because he was shamed and shunned as an impostor. Embittered and certain that the now-Lord cheated her father and contributed to his death, Arabella is determined to find proof of his perfidy and to reclaim her family’s honor. To do that, she must get close to the man and get access to his papers and records. Disguising her identity and being hired as his housekeeper may be the perfect opportunity to do it.

 But what happens if the truth is inconvenient at best and dangerous at worst? Can her plan succeed if Arabella discovers there’s so much more to the man and the myth than she dreamt possible?

 Unexpected Heirs of Scotland

The Lady Takes It All

A Lady’s Agreement

The Lady’s Tutor

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 12.21

AD 69 – The Roman Senate declares Vespasian emperor of Rome, the last in the Year of the Four Emperors. 1124 – Pope Honorius II is consecrated, having been elected after the controversial dethroning of Pope Celestine II. 1140 – After a siege of several weeks, the city of Weinsberg and its castle surrender to Conrad III of Germany. 1237 – The city of Ryazan is sacked by the Mongol army of Batu Khan. 1361 – The Battle of Linuesa is fought in the context of the Spanish Reconquista between the forces of the Emirate of Granada and the combined army of the Kingdom of Castile and of Jaén resulting in a Castilian victory. 1598 – Battle of Curalaba: The revolting Mapuche, led by cacique Pelentaru, inflict a major defeat on Spanish troops in southern Chile. 1620 – Plymouth Colony: William Bradford and the Mayflower Pilgrims land on what is now known as Plymouth Rock in Plymouth, Massachusetts. 1826 – American settlers in Nacogdoches, Mexican Texas, declare their independence, starting the Fredonian Rebellion. 1832 – Egyptian–Ottoman War: Egyptian forces decisively defeat Ottoman troops at the Battle of Konya. 1844 – The Rochdale Society of Equitable Pioneers commences business at its cooperative in Rochdale, England, starting the Cooperative movement. 1861 – Medal of Honor: Public Resolution 82, containing a provision for a Navy Medal of Valor, is signed into law by President Abraham Lincoln. 1872 – Challenger expedition: HMS Challenger, commanded by Captain George Nares, sails from Portsmouth, England. 1879 – World premiere of Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House at the Royal Theatre in Copenhagen, Denmark. 1883 – The Royal Canadian Dragoons and The Royal Canadian Regiment, the first Permanent Force cavalry and infantry regiments of the Canadian Army, are formed. 1901–present 1907 – The Chilean Army commits a massacre of at least 2,000 striking saltpeter miners in Iquique, Chile. 1910 – An underground explosion at the Hulton Bank Colliery No. 3 Pit in Over Hulton, Westhoughton, England, kills 344 miners. 1913 – Arthur Wynne's "word-cross", the first crossword puzzle, is published in the New York World. 1919 – American anarchist Emma Goldman is deported to Russia. 1923 – United Kingdom and Nepal formally sign an agreement of friendship, called the Nepal–Britain Treaty of 1923, which superseded the Treaty of Sugauli signed in 1816. 1934 – Lieutenant Kijé, one of Sergei Prokofiev's best-known works, premiered. 1936 – First flight of the Junkers Ju 88 multi-role combat aircraft. 1937 – Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the world's first full-length animated feature, premieres at the Carthay Circle Theatre. 1941 – World War II: A Thai-Japanese Pact of Alliance is signed. 1946 – An 8.1 Mw earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Nankaidō, Japan, kills over 1,300 people and destroys over 38,000 homes. 1963 – "Bloody Christmas" begins in Cyprus, ultimately resulting in the displacement of 25,000–30,000 Turkish Cypriots and destruction of more than 100 villages. 1965 – International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination is adopted. 1967 – Louis Washkansky, the first man to undergo a human-to-human heart transplant, dies in Cape Town, South Africa, having lived for 18 days after the transplant. 1968 – Apollo program: Apollo 8 is launched from the Kennedy Space Center, placing its crew on a lunar trajectory for the first visit to another celestial body by humans. 1970 – First flight of F-14 multi-role combat aircraft. 1973 – The Geneva Conference on the Arab–Israeli conflict opens. 1979 – Lancaster House Agreement: An independence agreement for Rhodesia is signed in London by Lord Carrington, Sir Ian Gilmour, Robert Mugabe, Joshua Nkomo, Bishop Abel Muzorewa and S.C. Mundawarara. 1988 – A bomb explodes on board Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, killing 270. This is to date the deadliest air disaster to occur on British soil. 1988 – The first flight of Antonov An-225 Mriya, the largest aircraft in the world. 1992 – A Dutch DC-10, flight Martinair MP 495, crashes at Faro Airport, killing 56. 1995 – The city of Bethlehem passes from Israeli to Palestinian control. 1999 – The Spanish Civil Guard intercepts a van loaded with 950 kg of explosives that ETA intended to use to blow up Torre Picasso in Madrid, Spain. 1999 – Cubana de Aviación Flight 1216 overshoots the runway at La Aurora International Airport, killing 18. 2004 – Iraq War: A suicide bomber kills 22 at the forward operating base next to the main U.S. military airfield at Mosul, Iraq, the single deadliest suicide attack on American soldiers. 2020 – A great conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn occurs, with the two planets separated in the sky by 0.1 degrees. This is the closest conjunction between the two planets since 1623.

[ofengineers]

Mid raises an eyebrow at his formality, but she ends up laughing when Joshua corrects himself. At least, he's willing not to be too formal with her. She knows he's not purposedly doing it, anyway. But Mid himself has never been good with formalities. She's not even sure she would use the right titles. Cid had never insisted on these things, so it was never important to her.

"You don't know how much I hoped you'd say that," she teases, a smirk on her features. She hears all these formalities sometimes, but she prefers to stay out of this. Anyway, she's there in her workshop most of the time, away from the others. As much as she hates it admit it, it makes her sad to see all these people who once were at her father's side, without having him around anymore.

She laughs one more time. At least, he's making fun of himself too, now. "A distinction, mmh ? I don't know much about nobles and all that, but I'm pretty sure you're not supposed to kneel for a... what am I, anyway ? A commoner ?" She really knows nothing about nobility. It makes her feel a bit stupid, now that she has started spending more time with Clive and Joshua. She shakes her head, then smiles as she brings a hand to her heart. "It doesn't matter that much, after all! I'm just too... normal, I guess, and it made me overreact." And not used to KINDNESS in general, especially when it comes to someone she met recently.

She nods in agreement, smiling brightly as Joshua is speaking about Clive. "You're right. He deserves to be happy. I'm so glad he's chosen to honor my father's legacy. He's the only one who could have done it this right." She blinks a few times, then scratches her neck. She tries not to speak much about Cid; it'll probably always be a SENSITIVE subject. But here, she just did, without thinking at all. Joshua is just that kind of person it's easy to speak to. Maybe too easy for her own good. She doesn't want to feel vulnerable.

And as she secretly wishes to suddenly vanish because she mentioned Cid, Joshua compliments her work. And there's so much admiration in the way he speaks. Sometimes, she wishes she could express herself that way, too. So easily, so naturally. But he's once again catching her off guard. Mid can feel the heat on her cheeks. She looks away for a moment, well aware that his eyes are still on her. She finally looks at him again. "That's, mmh... very kind of you to say all that... really!" She chuckles a bit awkwardly before she brings her hands together. People compliment her work sometimes, but surely not this way.

"Maybe..." Think, Mid, think. She's smiling again. She truly can't help herself; Joshua is too kind. "I'd like to build an airship, too, eventually." She ends up admitting. And that's the truth; it's something she has always wanted to do, back when Cid was still alive. "But I'm not sure of where to start. Usually, I'm studying monsters when I'm not sure. But you, as the Phoenix... you can fly, right ? How... How does it work ?" // @carrotsaversion

Deeply immersed in the sacred texts of ancient wisdom, Joshua sought solace within the timeworn pages, delving into the mysteries they held. Yet, the tranquility of his study was abruptly shattered by a familiar voice that pierced through the sanctum of his thoughts. Startled, he lifted his head, his gaze meeting Mid's with a mixture of surprise and a delicate hint of awkwardness.

With reverence still lingering in his tone, he attempted to address her with a touch of formality. "Lady Midadol!" he exclaimed, his voice carrying the weight of tradition. Realizing his misstep, he cleared his throat, his cheeks tinted with a subtle flush of embarrassment. Gathering his composure, he corrected himself with a gentle smile. "Oh, I mean, Mid, my apologies. Please, just call me Joshua. No need for titles or formalities in our conversations."

Mid's laughter, like a bubbling spring, permeated the air, infusing the space with an infectious energy that melted his unease. Joining in the mirthful exchange, Joshua embraced the lightness of the moment, his eyes twinkling with a mischievous spark. "Ah, I suppose being the first and only one to kneel for you is quite the distinction," he responded playfully.

As their conversation shifted towards Clive's happiness, Joshua's expression softened, radiating genuine warmth and admiration. His eyes held a gentle glow as he spoke from the depths of his heart. "It truly warms my soul to witness Clive's radiant contentment. He is a beacon of light in this sanctuary, and every ounce of joy he finds here is well-deserved," he conveyed with sincerity, his voice carrying a reverence for his brother's newfound happiness.

Taking a moment to gather his thoughts, Joshua locked eyes with Mid, his gaze brimming with profound respect and admiration. "Throughout my time here, I've witnessed the monumental feats you've accomplished," he expressed, carrying a touch of awe. "Your unwavering dedication and passion for your craft have given birth to a tapestry of engineering marvels, culminating in the creation of the legendary Enterprise itself," his words resonated with reverence for her exceptional skills and boundless creativity. With a subtle gesture of his hand, he emphasized the significance and impact of her achievements, as if encompassing the profound legacy she has forged within his palm.

"In light of your remarkable contributions, I want you to know that I'm here, ready to offer my assistance whenever you need it."

[offender42085]

Post 0415

Zachary A Avans, Arkansas inmate 661977, born 1998, incarceration intake March 2018 at age 19, scheduled for release April 2085 

Burglary, Possession of a Firearm, Murder

A Bella Vista man was sentenced to 132 years in prison after admitting to breaking into a man’s home and killing him.

Zachary Avans, 23, pleaded guilty to second-degree aggravated domestic burglary, possession of a firearm by certain individuals and possession of methamphetamine. The plea was under an agreement that Andrea Stokes and Jeff Chandler, Avans’ attorneys, reached with senior deputy prosecutor Joshua Robinson.

Avans was charged as a repeat offender.

Byron Keith Blackmon, 30, was found gunned down on Northwest Fifth Street in Bentonville on April 27, 2021. He died at Northwest Medical Center in Bentonville.

Shannon Schmidt told police he and Avans are friends, according to the affidavit of probable cause. Schmidt said Avans asked him to drive him to an address in Bentonville on April 27, 2021, to visit a friend about a stimulus check. Schmidt said he drove Avans to Bentonville, and Avans asked him to drive around and then come back to pick him up. Schmidt said he picked up Avans near Northwest B Street, according to the affidavit.

According to the affidavit, Avans was in financial trouble after giving a friend power of attorney to have the friend collect bail and get Avans out of jail. The friend got the stimulus check from Avans but failed to rescue him from prison, the affidavit said.

Schmidt told police that Avans burned the shirt he was wearing in a fire pit when they returned to Schmidt’s house, it said.

A neighbor of Blackmon heard Blackmon screaming for help and found him lying in the street, the affidavit said.

A police officer saw an open door to an apartment at 501 NW B St., Blackmon’s apartment. According to the affidavit, officers saw blood on the living room door and floor, along with several bloodied pillows.

Police also found a used case from a revolver or semi-automatic pistol.

Avans broke into Blackmon’s home and then shot him, Robinson told Benton County Circuit Judge Robin Green.

Blackmon’s family and police agreed with the plea deal, Robinson said.

Megan Thompson, Blackmon’s mother, said it is terrible when a parent loses a child. It’s still hard for her to sleep, and she’ll be lost forever without her son, she said.

“He had the best hugs,” she said. “I miss him so much.”

The judge asked Avans to speak before she sentenced him.

“No, ma’am,” Avans replied.

The judge told Avans that this would be his last chance as she would introduce a restraining order banning him from contacting Blackmon’s family. She asked him again if he wanted to say anything else.

“No, ma’am,” Avans said again. “I have nothing more to say, Your Honor.”

The Judge sentenced Avans to 132 years in the Arkansas Department of Corrections. Avans must serve a minimum of 32 years in prison before being eligible for parole.

2o

[viastro]

third of december | joshua hong

ミ★ synopsis: i still remember, third of december. me in your sweater, you said it looked better on me than it did you. OR: in which joshua gives you his sweater on the first snowfall of the year.

ミ★ genre: slice of life!au, uni!au, fluff, some humor

ミ★ warnings: none

ミ★ word count: 2,922

ミ★ pairings: joshua hong x gender neutral reader

ミ★ notes: hi guys! in honor of it being the third of december, i decided to write this oneshot based off of that line in conan gray’s song - heather. i made this a joshua oneshot because i felt bad... for the wonwoo one... so this hopefully makes up for it :D i also love joshua’s platinum hair. i love him. i hope he’s doing well. as always, make sure to give joshua lots of love! i hope you guys like this one even tho it’s kinda short and i just wrote this in the span of an hour !

It’s cold, you think to yourself as you walk to the next building that holds your class on campus. Rubbing the goosebumps raising on your arms, you glance around at your surroundings as music floods through your Airpods. You let out a sigh to see if you can see your breath, and you purse your lips when it condensates before your eyes. 

I should’ve brought an extra jacket, you curse quietly, only to stop when you hear a beautiful laugh resonate through the small crowd of people heading to their next class. Your head perks up, and you look across campus to see a bright head of platinum hair walking in your direction as he talks to his friend. Your heart twirls in your chest when he turns his head, and you find that his beautiful laugh matches his gorgeous facial features. 

Immediately you look down at the ground and try to walk faster towards your class, feeling awkward as you were basically just gawking at his beauty. Your face feels warm, but your hands are cold as you walk in the mid-November weather. 

You hear his voice as he gets closer, but you continue to stare down at the cobblestone as you walk. You find that his voice is incredibly pleasant as well, and you wonder how a human being can be so beautiful, causing the thoughts of the coldness of your hands to come to a halt. 

“Are you sure you wanna work on the melody? I can work on it if you want.” Joshua offers as the two head towards the direction of the cafe. Jeonghan rolls his eyes, having heard this five times in the span of the two hour lecture they just got out of. 

“Joshua, I already told you that if you really wanna make the melody then you can do it. I don’t mind writing lyrics.” Jeonghan replies with a grin, and Joshua lets out an apologetic smile. “Sorry Hannie, I just hate writing lyrics.” 

“I know Joshua, but sometimes you need to practice...” Joshua tunes out the rest of Jeonghan’s lecture when he turns his head to look forward, only to pause when he lays eyes on you. Time comes to a slow when he sees you glance up from the ground for a moment, and his heart fills with warmth even in this cold November weather. 

He stops and turns his head in your direction when you walk past him, watching as you shrink within the crowd as you most likely head to your next class. Jeonghan chuckles when he follows Joshua’s line of sight, knowing that his best friend has just developed a crush. With this newfound knowledge, he nudges Joshua’s shoulder, causing the blonde to snap out of his trance. 

“You good?” 

“Do you know who they are?” Joshua asks in a quiet voice, and Jeonghan turns his head, seeing that you’re no longer in sight. He shrugs, “I’ve never spoken to them.” 

Joshua nods his head, looking obviously disappointed as they turn back towards the direction of the cafe. Jeonghan chuckles, patting Joshua’s shoulder after a moment of his friend staying quiet. Joshua glances at the brunette, and he watches as a grin etches itself onto his face. “Since they were heading in that direction today, it’s most likely that our paths will cross with theirs on Thursdays. You’ll see them next week.” 

Joshua lets out a smile after a moment, and nods his head, now feeling excited to see you in a week. Jeonghan rolls his eyes, wrapping his arm around Joshua’s shoulders as they get closer to the cafe. 

“You fall in love easily.” Jeonghan tells him, and Joshua purses his lips. He glances up at the cloudy sky, remembering the way your eyes sparkled when you briefly glanced up from the ground. And so he smiles and responds in a soft voice,

“They were pretty.” 

I brought an extra jacket, but I forgot gloves. Fucking gloves, you think as you walk across campus once again. You let out a sigh, watching as your breath condensates before your very eyes once again. Beginning to curse to yourself for forgetting the gloves on your table, you pick up the pace so that you can make it to the warmth of your building quicker. 

That plan comes to an immediate stop when you hear his voice, and you find yourself walking slower to be able to cherish the sound. Glancing up in the direction of his voice, you see him listening attentively as  his friend animatedly speaks to him. You let out a small smile, thinking that he’s rather cute when he smiles. 

You suck in a breath when he turns his head and locks eyes with you when your paths are about to cross. You want nothing more than to look away and act as if he didn’t catch you staring fondly at him, but his catlike eyes have you intrigued. He finally lets out a smile and stops walking when the two of you are right beside each other, and he turns towards you. 

You find yourself doing the same thing, internally screaming to yourself as you wonder how you were able to muster the courage to not run away when he turned to you. The blonde extends his hand in your direction, “Hi, I’m Joshua Hong.” 

Biting the inside of your cheek, you reach out and softly grasp his warm hand with your cold one, giving it a slight shake. “Hi, I’m yln yn.” 

Joshua’s eyebrows furrow slightly when you let go, and he reaches into his jacket pockets. You move to apologize for how cold your hand was, only to stop when he holds out a pair of purple gloves for you. Glancing up at his face, you catch the redness to his nose as he mutters, “It’s cold, make sure to wear these.” 

You let out a small smile, “Are you sure? These are yours, and you barely know me.” You tell him softly, and Joshua chuckles, nodding his head in reassurance. He pushes them in your direction again, and you shyly take them from his grasp. “Thank you.” 

You slide them on, letting out a happy sigh when you feel the warmth of the gloves on your fingers. Joshua smiles, “Want me to walk you to class?” 

“I thought we were gonna go to the caf-” Joshua quickly elbows Jeonghan in the stomach, making the latter double over in pain from the impact. The brunette quietly curses Joshua and his powerful elbows, wondering why the fuck his elbow felt so sharp. 

Your eyes widen slightly in concern at Joshua’s friend, and the blonde waves his hand at you with a grin, obviously one that’s trying to hold back a laugh. “He’s fine.”

“I’m dying.” 

“You’re fine.” 

“Fuck you.” 

Joshua flashes you a smile after patting Jeonghan on the back, and you end up giggling at the whole interaction. You shake your head ‘no’ at his offer, “It’s okay. It’s all the way across campus, and you already gave me these gloves. You’ve done more than enough.” 

Joshua’s heart falls slightly, but he nods his head, respecting your decision. He prepares to say bye, only to stop when you say, “We can hangout some other time, though.” 

He nods his head immediately in agreement, and you giggle at the sight of it. So you nod your head back at him, before waving your hand, “See you later Joshua, make sure to be nice to your friend.” 

Joshua chuckles as he waves back at you, watching as you begin to walk away “I’m always nice.”

“Say that to my two broken ribs.” Jeonghan wheezes from behind you, and you let out a bright smile when you hear the pair begin to squabble. 

You walk towards your class with a happy heart, and warm hands. 

“Did you hear that it’s gonna snow tomorrow?” You glance over towards the blonde, finding him playing with your switch on the floor of your apartment as you do homework on the couch. 

“December 3rd? That’s kinda early in the month.” You tell Joshua right as he lets out a groan for losing in smash bros. You watch as the pretty man shrugs his shoulders, preparing to restart the round, “Can’t believe you’re more concerned that it’s early rather than the fact that we still have to go to classes.” 

“That’s cause I work better when I’m actually in the classroom rather than online classes.” You say, rolling your eyes when Joshua waves his hand away at you. 

“Didn’t a girl slip and fall on the icy ground last year?” Joshua nods aimlessly in response before telling you that she’s still in talks of suing the university. Pursing your lips and nodding your head in agreement for wanting to sue the school, you glance back towards your textbook. 

You and Joshua did end up hanging out some other time. Almost everyday after classes to be exact. Usually it’s you, Jeonghan, and Joshua, but Jeonghan had an evening class to go to today. You weren’t originally going to hangout with Joshua, but he invited himself to your apartment to be able to play with your switch since Jeonghan broke his. 

Jeonghan is still repenting. 

You’ve discovered that not only is Joshua incredibly pretty and has a nice voice, but his personality is beautiful as well. Over the last couple weeks, your crush on him has only developed even further with the time you’ve spent with him. 

The same goes for Joshua, who has found himself thinking of you more often than not. From the fact that your eyes sparkle when you smile at him, to the way you practically inhale two cups of ramen in a span of fifteen minutes. He’s absolutely amazed by you. 

“You wanna order food?” You ask after a few minutes of silence between you, except for the diverse amount of sound effects coming from your TV. Joshua pauses the game and turns towards you with a knowing smile, causing you to let out a laugh. 

“Did you even have to ask?” Joshua responds, and you roll your eyes. 

“Thai food?” He nods his head in agreement, and the two of you settle on what dishes you both want, as well as what you’ll save for Jeonghan. Once that’s figured out, you place the order and receive the wait time of 30-45 minutes. 

“Does this mean you’re gonna take a break from your homework?” Joshua asks after that’s done, and you purse your lips in thought, before nodding your head. 

“I’ll beat your ass in super smash bros.” You tease, and the blonde rolls his eyes fondly at you as you settle down onto the floor beside him. He hands you your other controller, and the two of you begin a competitive round of smash bros. 

During the middle of the round, Joshua sneaks glances at you, watching as you laugh when you accidentally make your character fall off the platform. His eyes sparkle at the way your face brightens when you fight his character, to the pout of your lips as you begin to concentrate. 

Feeling Joshua’s eyes on you for the sixth time, you pause the game and turn to face him with a teasing smile. “Do you think I’m pretty? You keep-” 

You freeze at the close proximity between your faces, and you watch as Joshua’s eyes widen slightly. The two of you stare into each other's eyes for a moment, searching for an answer. To what question? At this moment, you can only think of one. 

are we about to kiss?

Your answer comes to you when his eyes trail down to your lips. Your eyes slowly flutter shut when he leans in slightly, and Joshua ingrains the visual in his mind, finding you the most beautiful thing he’s ever laid eyes on as he slowly leans in. 

bzzz 

The two of you jump apart at the sound of your apartment buzzer, and you quickly reach for your phone, seeing that the food is here. Joshua quickly scrambles up off the floor and walks over to your door without another word, and you rest a hand over your heart, feeling it violently pound against your chest. 

While Joshua’s cheeks are tinged a pretty shade of pink as he grabs the takeout food, wondering if the two of you would’ve actually kissed if you weren’t interrupted by the Thai food. However, it seems that his question won’t be answered as he walks back into your living room with a small smile. 

“Let’s eat.” 

Joshua literally told me it was going to snow and I decided to wear a t-shirt and a jacket? Am I stupid? You begin to genuinely question whether or not you have any brain cells as you walk across campus. The snow begins to fall around you as you head to class, and you quietly curse yourself for being so distracted in the morning to have forgotten the weather. 

The almost kiss keeps replaying in your head. From the moment Jeonghan came to your apartment after class and began to eat with you guys, to the time he and Joshua left to head back to their apartment. This was all you thought about even until this morning, and it’s all you’re thinking about now.

stupid! stupid! stupid! 

Your head perks up when you hear Joshua and Jeonghan laughing, and you find the two dressed warmly as they walk in your direction. Your heart thumps against your chest when Joshua glances up and locks eyes with you, only to internally panic when he immediately frowns. 

oh god, he hates me.

“Yn, I told you it was snowing today. Where’s your sweater?” Joshua asks when him and Jeonghan get closer to you. You bite the inside of your cheek, trying to come up with an answer that doesn’t sound like,

oh, you know Joshua. I was too busy being distracted by the fact that you almost kissed me last night, that i forgot to dress like a human being that DOESN’T wanna get hypothermia. haha. hahahaha. hahahahahahahahaha. Pain. 

“I forgot.” You mutter, feeling embarrassed about your stupidity. Jeonghan snickers at you, thinking the whole ordeal is rather hilarious, and you shoot him a death glare, to which he immediately stops chuckling. 

You turn back towards Joshua when you see him zipping open his backpack, and your eyes widen slightly when he pulls out an extra sweater from his bag. Jeonghan grins to himself, watching as Joshua holds it out in your direction.

“What?” You ask, and Jeonghan lets out a quiet sigh of disappointment at your lack of understanding context clues when it comes to real life scenarios. Joshua shakes the sweater, “Put this on. That jacket won’t help much, you need layers.” 

You bite the inside of your cheek, before handing Jeonghan your bag, and Joshua your jacket. You slip on the sweater over your head, and feel your face fill with warmth when you realize how much larger it is on you rather than Joshua. 

Joshua’s cheeks turn pink at the sight of you wearing his sweater, and he immediately hands you your jacket. You take it from his grasp and slip it on, before taking back your backpack from Jeonghan. You gesture to yourself, “So, what do we think?” 

“Looks better on Joshua-” Jeonghan immediately gets elbowed in the stomach, causing him to double over. Joshua gives you a shy smile, and you bite back a laugh. 

“You look pretty.” Joshua tells you softly, taking note of the way the snowflakes rest on your head, and the held back laughter goes away as you feel yourself growing more shy at the fondness in his voice. You look down at the ground, coughing into your shoulder as you prepare to leave to head towards your building once again.

“Thank you for the sweater, Joshua. I’ll see you and Jeonghan after class.” You tell him, and you wave at the doubled over Jeonghan, before turning to go to class. You pause when you feel a hand softly grasp your wrist, and you turn around to see Joshua right behind you. Raising an eyebrow you ask, “What?” 

Joshua doesn’t respond, instead biting the inside of his cheek nervously as he stares at you. You move to ask what’s wrong, only to be stopped when he leans in and presses a quick kiss to your lips. “I’ll see you later, yn.”

And with that, Joshua immediately turns around and walks away, ignoring Jeonghan’s teasing from behind him as he follows after the blonde. Warmth floods your senses, and you slowly raise a hand up to your lips, smile slowly breaking itself out onto your face as you watch the blonde disappear. 

You feel warm. 

“You brought that sweater just for yn, didn’t you?” Jeonghan teases as the two walk towards the cafeteria, and Joshua nods his head. 

“I knew they’d forget to dress warmly even though I told them it was gonna snow.” Joshua responds, smiling softly at the way the bright orange complimented your skin beautifully. It was a nice contrast to the white snow surrounding you as it fell from the sky. 

“You just wanted to see them in your clothes.” Jeonghan says with a chuckle, wrapping his arm around Joshua’s shoulders as they push through the doors, feeling warmth flood their bodies. Joshua nods his head, not even denying it as he smiles to himself. 

“They look better in it than I do.”

[renee-writer]

Call Me Josh Chapter 21

Rabbi Goldman tries to stay out of the hubbub about Joshua. He is contacted, those reporters dig out that he is his rabbi, but he has always put them off until…

She walks in, right off the street. Her attire leaves no doubt of her profession. He comes up to her, thinking she has to be searching for a meal or some other type of help.

“Miss, may I help you with something?” he is kind but firm. She can’t stay in the synagogue.

“No, for he already has. Joshua. He helped my friend Rashad. He told her all about herself, including the stuff she kept hidden from all but God. He must be your Messiah, but not just yours, for he showed Rashad there is a God for people like me. I want to learn about such a God. Where do I go?”

He is shocked. Could the boy he had preformed a bris for, the young man he had mitzahed, could he be Messiah? If so, why does he approach such as this unfortunate lady whether then his own people?

“Let’s get you cleaned up then I will get you a Torah and get you some information on God. You want to change your life, stop ah…”

“Hooking, yes I do. I want to live a life that honors God.”

“Very good. What is your name?”

“Mary. Thank you rabbi.”

He gets his wife to give her a makeover and then settles her in their spare room with a Torah. Then he calls his mama.

“Rabbi Goldman wishes to see you Joshua.” She tells him. Her son glows. She worries that he is doing to much but, his work seems to give him life.

“Yes mama. I will go…”

“As soon as you have ate Joshua.” She insists. His siblings smirk and Rebecca laughs. He loves to hear it. They still watch her carefully but she seems to be getting past the crushing grief.

“Yes mama.”

He finds his rabbi in his office. “Shalom Rabbi Goldman.”

“Shalom Joshua. Please have a seat.” He does. “I had a very interesting visitor today. A young lady named Mary. Her friend Rashad had told her a most interesting thing about you.”

He waits for his response. “You welcomed her in peace.” He knows he did.

“Yes. She wears appropriate clothes and her face is clear of the heavy makeup. She is studying the Torah in our spare room. What I want to know is, is it true?”

The boy that had squirmed through Hebrew lessons, who’s voice had cracked at his bar mitzvah, he is gone. In his place sits a man, with a smile in his eyes and a look of peace on his face. He leans closer. “Yes it is. My Father sent me to heal the sick, feed the hungry, to really see the misfits and the castoffs. To be Messiah.”

Rabbi Goldman doesn’t know whether to laugh or cry. He was serious, no doubt about that. He saw his sermon on the hill. The whole thing was posted on YouTube. He knows that he has a gift. Had it come from God? Can he believe that, that the boy he watched grow up, was Messiah? After all these years, had God placed him in Joshua?

“Joshua?”

“I get it. It is a lot to take in.”

“Why her and not one of your own?” That, in truth, was what was bothering him.

“Because they are all His children. He loves them all. Would you like me to address our people on Sabbath?”

“Yes, I think that would be a good idea.”

He stands in front of his people. His mama smiles at him while his brothers squirm in their seats, worried about what he would say. Beside Mrs. Goldman, Mary sits, her eyes shiny with the new hope that runs through her.

He opens the scroll to Isaiah, and scrolls to 61. There he begins to read, “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is upon me, because He has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to announce that the captives will be released and the prisoners will be freed.” He rolls it back up. “This passage is fulfilled in your sight today.”

Total silence and then, “Blasphemy! This son of Joseph and Mary, this man that we have known all our lives, he claims to be Messiah!” one of the older man calls out. A mummer of agreement echoes around the building.

“Go Joshua, you and your family.” Rabbi Goldman urges. He slips out the back with his family and the followers that are also with him.

“Now, why did you go and do that Josh? It is bad enough you put on airs everywhere else but to do it in synagogue.” James hisses as the walk back home.

“Hush James. Your brother can only be who he is.”

“Mama, you believe this?” Jude asks.

“It is time I shared something with you.” When they get home, she sits them down, including Joshua and his friends, and tells them of the angel, the expected baby, Joe’s dream, everything.

Meanwhile, a reporter approaches Rabbi Goldman. He was in the congregation and has some questions to Joshua ‘s reading. A lot of people want to talk to the rabbi after Joshua’s shocking announcement. The reporter waits.

“Something must be done! To say such!”

“Come Levi, how do we know it isn’t true. You know what he is doing.”

“Hogwash! It is some sort of trick. “ Mrs. Goldman is trying to get herself and Mary out of the way. Mary hears the last comment.

“Pardon me, but I know tricks. Joshua, he saw my friend Rashad and I, really saw us and changed the course of our lives. I am just learning about God, but what I see of Him in Joshua, shows me that He is kind. You who worship Him should be too.”

She is lead away. The reporter finally gets to the rabbi.

“Pardon me but why did his words cause such a fuss? Brian Greene from the AP.”

“Mr. Greene, it is because he was publicly claiming to be Messiah.”

“Can you explain what that means so the public will understand?”

He sighs and nods. “Follow me to my office.”

[strawberista]

Panic surged in Hanekoma's breast the very moment she disappeared. It was rare to find someone that could throw him off in a world like this, but he quickly regained himself and spun on his heel, backing up as soon as he felt her touch him. He stood back while she introduced herself, and his mind immediately went to the music of his city. They had been working on it for a while now, he and Joshua, and they had been keeping their distance from one another in order to prevent something like this, to prevent his city from sounding so chaotic to everyone that entered.

Apparently there were still aftereffects...

Taking a deep breath to steady himself, Hanekoma slid his hands in his pockets and furrowed his brow at her introduction. A goddess... He was usually supposed to keep his nature under wraps, but maybe he didn't have the luxury of secrecy here. He rarely ever met something so high up on their ladder as all that. He was going to have to assert his equality before she went around thinking she could do whatever she wanted.

And so once she was finished he tuned himself up and spread his wings, broad and white, glowing a blue hue, "Well, it's an honor to make your acquaintance, sister, but I regret to inform you we don't have gods here. I am the highest order of being on this world, an angel. And while it is an honor to meet you, I will politely request you don't damage my city. In contrary to your designation, my job is to ensure the prosperity of my district, and I won't have anyone tearing down my hard work, goddess or not. So perhaps we can come to some sort of agreement here? I mean no disrespect when I make these requests of you. I am merely upholding my responsibility."

     Scarlet eyes widened once she heard the voice - one that called out to her. So this one was different - he could see her. And that meant she got to play with him. How fun! Her whispy form vanished in front of him, only to reappear behind him, her gentle touch on his shoulders.

    " Me? " She mused, her form enlarging as the sky darkened slightly. " I am Eris, the Goddess of Chaos. I felt glorious chaos here and came to see what it was. " Her form shrank somewhat, to be his size, as she offered him a sweetened smile. " Be grateful you are in the presence of a goddess. "

[didanawisgi]

Martin Luther King Jr., Guns, and a Book Everyone Should Read

BY JEREMY S. | JAN 15, 2018

“Martin Luther King Jr. would have been 89 years old today, were he not assassinated in 1968. On the third Monday in January we observe MLK Jr. Day and celebrate his achievements in advancing civil rights for African Americans and others. While Dr. King was a big advocate of peaceful assembly and protest, he wasn’t, at least for most of his life, against the use of firearms for self-defense. In fact, he employed them . . .

If it wasn’t for African Americans in the South, primarily, taking up arms almost without exception during the post-Civil War reconstruction and well into the civil rights movement, this country wouldn’t be what it is today.

By force and threat of arms African Americans protected themselves, their families, their homes, and their rights and won the attention and respect of the powers that be. In a lawless, post-Civil War South they stayed alive while faced with, at best, an indifferent government and, at worst, state-sponsored violence against them.

We know the Supreme Court’s Dred Scott decision of 1857 refused to recognize black people as citizens. Heck, they were deemed just three-fifths a person. Not often mentioned in school: some of that was due to gun rights. Namely, not wanting to give gun rights to blacks. Because if they were to recognize blacks as citizens, it…

“…would give to persons of the negro race . . . the right to enter every other State whenever they pleased, . . . and it would give them the full liberty of speech . . . ; to hold public meetings upon political affairs, and to keep and carry arms wherever they went.”

Ahha! So the Second Amendment was considered an individual right, protecting a citizen’s natural, inalienable right to keep and carry arms wherever they go. Then as now, gun control is rooted in racism.

During reconstruction, African Americans were legally citizens but were not always treated as such. Practically every African American home had a shotgun — or shotguns — and they needed it, too. Forget police protection, as those same officials were often in white robes during their time off.

Fast forward to the American civil rights movement and we learn, but again not at school, that Martin Luther King Jr. applied for a concealed carry permit. He (an upstanding minister, mind you) was denied.

Then as in many cases even now, especially in blue states uniquely and ironically so concerned about “fairness,” permitting was subjective (“may issue” rather than “shall issue”). The wealthy and politically connected receive their rights, but the poor, the uneducated, the undesired masses, not so much.

Up until late in his life, MLK Jr. chose to be protected by the Deacons for Defense. Though his home was also apparently a bit of an arsenal.

African Americans won their rights and protected their lives with pervasive firearms ownership. But we don’t learn about this. We don’t know about this. It has been unfortunately whitewashed from our history classes and our discourse.

Hidden, apparently, as part of an agreement (or at least an understanding) reached upon the conclusion of the civil rights movement.

Sure, the government is going to protect you now and help you and give you all of the rights you want, but you have to give up your guns. Turn them in. Create a culture of deference to the government. Be peaceable and non-threatening and harmless. And arm-less, as it were (and vote Democrat). African Americans did turn them in, physically and culturally.

That, at least, is an argument made late in Negroes and the Gun: the Black Tradition of Arms. It’s a fantastic book, teaching primarily through anecdotes of particular African American figures throughout history just how important firearms were to them. I learned so-freaking-much from this novel, and couldn’t recommend it more. If you have any interest in gun rights, civil rights, and/or African American history, it’s an absolute must-read.

Some text I highlighted on my Kindle Paperwhite when I read it in 2014:

But Southern blacks had to navigate the first generation of American arms-control laws, explicitly racist statutes starting as early as Virginia’s 1680 law, barring clubs, guns, or swords to both slaves and free blacks.

“…he who would be free, himself must strike the blow.”

In 1846, white abolitionist congressman Joshua Giddings of Ohio gave a speech on the floor of the House of Representatives, advocating distribution of arms to fugitive slaves.

Civil-rights activist James Forman would comment in the 1960s that blacks in the movement were widely armed and that there was hardly a black home in the South without its shotgun or rifle.

A letter from a teacher at a freedmen’s school in Maryland demonstrates one set of concerns. The letter contains the standard complaints about racist attacks on the school and then describes one strand of the local response. “Both the Mayor and the sheriff have warned the colored people to go armed to school, (which they do) [and] the superintendent of schools came down and brought me a revolver.”

Low black turnout resulted in a Democratic victory in the majority black Republican congressional district.

Other political violence of the Reconstruction era centered on official Negro state militias operating under radical Republican administrations.

“The Winchester rifle deserves a place of honor in every Black home.” So said Ida B. Wells.

Fortune responded with an essay titled “The Stand and Be Shot or Shoot and Stand Policy”: “We have no disposition to fan the coals of race discord,” Thomas explained, “but when colored men are assailed they have a perfect right to stand their ground. If they run away like cowards they will be regarded as inferior and worthy to be shot; but if they stand their ground manfully, and do their own a share of the shooting they will be respected and by doing so they will lessen the propensity of white roughs to incite to riot.”

He used state funds to provide guns and ammunition to people who were under threat of attack.

“Medgar was nonviolent, but he had six guns in the kitchen and living room.”

“The weapons that you have are not to kill people with — killing is wrong. Your guns are to protect your families — to stop them from being killed. Let the Klan ride, but if they try to do wrong against you, stop them. If we’re ever going to win this fight we got to have a clean record. Stay here, my friends, you are needed most here, stay and protect your homes.”

In 2008 and 2010, the NAACP filed amicus briefs to the United States Supreme Court, supporting blanket gun bans in Washington, DC, and Chicago. Losing those arguments, one of the association’s lawyers wrote in a prominent journal that recrafting the constitutional right to arms to allow targeted gun prohibition in black enclaves should be a core plank of the modern civil-rights agenda.

Wilkins viewed the failure to pursue black criminals as overt state malevolence and evidence of an attitude that “there’s one more Negro killed — the more of ’em dead, the less to bother us. Don’t spend too much money running down the killer — he may kill another.”

But it puts things in perspective to note that swimming pool accidents account for more deaths of minors than all forms of death by firearm (accident, homicide, and suicide).

The correlation of very high murder rates with low gun ownership in African American communities simply does not bear out the notion that disarming the populace as a whole will disarm and prevent murder by potential murderers.

Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimated 1,900,000 annual episodes where someone in the home retrieved a firearm in response to a suspected illegal entry. There were roughly half a million instances where the armed householder confronted and chased off the intruder.

A study of active burglars found that one of the greatest risks faced by residential burglars is being injured or killed by occupants of a targeted dwelling. Many reported that this was their greatest fear and a far greater worry than being caught by police.48 The data bear out the instinct. Home invaders in the United States are more at risk of being shot in the act than of going to prison.49 Because burglars do not know which homes have a gun, people who do not own guns enjoy free-rider benefits because of the deterrent effect of others owning guns. In a survey of convicted felons conducted for the National Institute of Justice, 34 percent of them reported being “scared off, shot at, wounded or captured by an armed victim.” Nearly 40 percent had refrained from attempting a crime because they worried the target was armed. Fifty-six percent said that they would not attack someone they knew was armed and 74 percent agreed that “one reason burglars avoid houses where people are at home is that they fear being shot.”

In the period before Florida adopted its “shall issue” concealed-carry laws, the Orlando Police Department conducted a widely advertised program of firearms training for women. The program was started in response to reports that women in the city were buying guns at an increased rate after an uptick in sexual assaults. The program aimed to help women gun owners become safe and proficient. Over the next year, rape declined by 88 percent. Burglary fell by 25 percent. Nationally these rates were increasing and no other city with a population over 100,000 experienced similar decreases during the period.55 Rape increased by 7 percent nationally and by 5 percent elsewhere in Florida.

As you can see, Negroes and the Gun progresses more or less chronologically, spending the last portion of the book discussing modern-day gun control. It’s an invaluable source of ammunition (if you’ll pardon the expression) against the fallacies of the pro-gun-control platform. It sheds light on a little-known (if not purposefully obfuscated), critical factor in the history of African Americans: firearms.

On this Martin Luther King Jr. Day, I highly recommend you — yes, you — read Negroes and the Gun: the Black Tradition of Arms.

And I’ll wrap this up with a quote in a Huffington Post article given by Maj Toure of Black Guns Matter: 

https://cdn0.thetruthaboutguns.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/huffpo-maj-toure.jpg”

[juji-han]

Mr. Hong

pairing | Joshua Hong x f!reader ft. mention of other Seventeen members

word count | 3.9k

genres | pride and prejudice au, fluff

summary | Knowing Mr. Hong was something you don’t think you could ever forget

warnings | crude language, but only a few times

"Mr. Hong!” 

“Mr. Hong!”

Having the misfortune of chasing after a twenty-four year old man was... well, unfortunate. He was stuck up, listening to only the voices he called his friends, and never waiting for anyone. Trying to control the man was the work of a mother and that’s what you were absolutely not. 

“Friend, the woman is calling, an ear in her direction wouldn’t hurt now would it?” Jeonghan called. You let out a small noise of agreement to his friend, your pride strong. Although you didn’t think you needed the help, you definitely did. 

“I cannot lend an ear friend, it’s simply impossible!” Joshua teased. He was moving around the common room, pacing with the intent of looking for something, without a care for you trying to grab his attention. 

“Please, Mr. Hong,” You pleaded, finally getting close enough to grab his shoulders and spin him around. “You’ve got to attend the ball with me, I’ve already told my mother we’re going!”

Upon hearing your full plead, his face morphs into an expression you cannot read. His eyes locked onto yours and his lips pursed with a new expression of wonder. 

“Why didn’t you tell me earlier? Honestly Ms. Y/N you’ve got to learn to speak up if you’re gonna be a resident around here.” He grins. He grabs your arms that were tightly gripped onto his body and connects hands. He lets out a giggle and looks around to his friends.

“Were you boys aware of the woman’s pleads? And I have the misfortune of calling you men partners.” 

Joshua walks away, his posture straight with years of practice in it. His two friends who’ve you only begun to unravel along with him follow behind, leaving an exhausted you behind in the common area wondering what the hell just happened. 

Exhaling air you didn’t even know you were holding, it dawned on you that Mr. Hong, a man who was eccentric and unfiltered in his words was going to meet your parents. 

Arriving at the ball was nerve-racking to say the least. You’re hands were sweaty, rubbing on the ribbon around your dress multiple times. Even to your parents you looked concerned, brows furrowed and eyes skittering around the foyer in hopes to find the 5′10 man that always wore a smile.

“Ms. Y/N,” You turned around quickly, meeting eyes with Mr. Hong. “Mrs. Mr., fine evening if I do say so myself. Your daughter invited me and oh-” 

Joshua’s hand shot out, eyes flicking back and forth between your mother and father, having forgotten to introduce himself first.

“Joshua Hong. That is my name, if-if you were wondering. Although if you weren’t I’ll take the burden of intruding your thoughts with such a name. Unless you’d want the burden, which would be odd but-” 

“Please Mr. Hong, I am truly honored you have decided to accompany my daughter. I thought she would never have a male who would take her without being embarrassed of her rude and blunt behavior!” Your mother raved. She fanned her face as she went on, completing her speech of your ‘wild child’ nature. 

Your face blushed redder than a local soldier uniform. "Mother! Isn’t burdening Mr. Hong about my personality more of a distaste than just announcing your comfort?”

You turned to Joshua grabbing his arm, linking you two together and pulling him into the main ballroom. 

“Do you dance Mr. Hong? Or should I have invited your friend, Mr. Chwe his name was?” You asked. He looked down at you and gave a small laugh. 

“You were running around me, calling my name for five minutes in hopes I’d say yes. Now here you are asking for my friend, perhaps your mother was right, maybe you are unkept.” Joshua spoke as he whisked you around so you were in front of him. 

“So you admit you kept me waiting in anticipation for your answer?” You pressed. Shrugging his shoulders and giving a smirk, you concluded your answer. 

“Come on,” He grabbed your hand. You had wondered if you were finally going to dance, but instead he led you out of the ballroom, going toward the balcony. “I’ve got to share information with you that is of most importance, and I have the plague of impatience my dear.”

Excusing many people that you and Joshua had bumped into, you two finally made your way to the balcony, empty with no decorations, a complete opposite to the inside. To whose mansion it was unknown, but the swan lake in front of your eyes was beautiful. You’d have to thank them one day.

Lost in your thoughts, you almost didn’t notice the way Joshua grabbed your hand, turning your head to his direction.

“You look quite beautiful tonight.” He spoke in a low voice. Although the balcony was empty of others and the great wooden doors were closed behind you, he spoke in a low tone.

“Is that all you had to rush to tell me Mr. Hong? Your ‘plague of impatience’ seems to have worn off.” You teased. “If you want such a compliment back, I’ll give it in return. You do also look of quite importance tonight.”

He clicks his tongue and gives a chuckle. Still looking at you, he reaches for the ribbon on your dress. Looking at it with a longing you couldn’t understand, he lets it fall out of his hand, the fabric falling into place slowly. 

“Where are your guest Mr. Hong? A man like you seems too lonely to travel around alone, am I wrong?”

Joshua’s eyes widen for a split second before they squint, a smile reaching his dark eyes, “I accompanied you tonight did I not?”

“You did.”

“So I am not lonely tonight. I even sneaked out and escaped my two guests you seem so keen on mentioning today.” He revealed. Your face held shock for a moment before hitting him on the shoulder giving a laugh.

“Mr. Hong, if they find out you’ve actually agreed to come here with me tonight, they might think me of a vile woman! A vile woman who has kidnapped a man of your rank to come down to the less fortunate! For a public ball!” You cried. 

“Nonsense Ms. Y/N. They would share my honor of having going to a ball with a beautiful woman. Besides, that’s not the importance I had to share. There was more, but I’m afraid I’m shy and not so open to sharing my true feelings,” He spoke.

“Is it bad?” You asked. In the two months of knowing Mr. Hong, he hasn’t shared any information that has made you worried for him personally. He was always positive, making sure to spread hope. 

“No. Well, perhaps if this goes wrong, I’d then have to assume the position of it being bad, however-” He got cut off, the wooden doors behind you two opening with eagerness. 

“Mr. Hong! Honestly, you are a grown man, just notify us when you are leaving! Is it necessary to make us have a chase?” Jeonghan scolded, Vernon walking next to him, stepping onto the balcony.

You bowed to the two men, acknowledging them and giving a polite smile. Joshua’s friends eyes widened before bowing back and switching back over to their run-away.

“We have to go.” Mr. Chwe spoke shortly, his face wearing a happy look. He took Joshua by the arm and walked him towards the doors. Whispering in his ear, Joshua nodded before facing you.

“I apologize Ms. Y/N, but this really does require my utmost attention. Not that you don’t also, but-” He was cut off once again with a tug on his arm by Jeonghan.

“My apologies.” He muttered. The three men left quickly, leaving you confused.

He’d tell you what was concerning him, now and before right? Or would he sweep it under the rug in hopes you’d let the situation go, your mind pondered.

Gasping, your face heated up in anger, “that bastard! Mother is gonna think I’ve driven him off.”

Two days ago, you got left by Mr. Hong and berated by your mother for running off a man of his handsomeness. Your mother who was so excited for you having bought a man that had potential to be your husband was still going on, complaining on how a woman of your beauty could chase a man off so quickly.

You sat at the table, eating slowly and ‘politely’ in hopes she didn’t point out another thing you did wrong.

“Dear, I’m sure she didn’t mean to. I saw the gentleman get pulled away by two other men.” Your father stuck up for you while reading the newspaper.

“Oh! Don’t you makes excuses for her,” she turned to you, sweat starting to run down her forehead after ranting and pacing. “You are trying to give me a heart attack! Truly Y/N if you want me to have one, I feel it coming on!”

You stood from your chair, walking towards her and seating her yourself.

“Mama, I’m not looking for a suitor anyway. I’m convinced I cannot give what a man needs right now for company and no man is able to do the same for me.” You spoke quickly, not giving her the chance to cut you off.

“Now if you’d excuse me, I’ll be under the tree. Call me if you’re having that heart attack, yeah?” You smiled, walking away and grabbing a book. You swore you heard your mother gasp and complain once again unto your poor father’s ears.

The weather was warm outside, but not warm enough to make you regret coming out. Sitting under the great big tree near the lake, you cracked open your book, tasking yourself with finishing another chapter.

“And your mother swears you are of wildness.” You heard a familiar voice talk. Jumping slightly, you closed your book and looked up, glad the tree covered the sun for you.

In front of you stood Mr. Hong, suit perfectly fitted and posture straight, smiling down at you.

“She only swears that so a man might think I can be tamed. Always for the man, never for the bride.” You frowned. Joshua sat himself next to you, a hand behind his back hiding something.

You pointed your head towards him, “What is that? Surely it must be the reason you left me to the wolf I call my mother those some nights ago.”

Joshua sighed, a tired smile on his face. He brought the envelope from behind his back and passed it to you. Looking at the wax stamp of his initials and family arms, you looked back up at him.

“What is this?” 

“Open it when I leave my dear. I’m much too shy to say it to your face. I had built up courage at the ball but I’m afraid its run out now.” He stood up, dusting his pants and gave a quick bow, walking away at a near running pace.

Raising an eyebrow and cracking a smile you examined the envelope. Breaking the seal, you found a letter. 

Ms. Y/N, it was took upon me that I must inform you that I am leaving soon. My close friend has gotten married! He stressed his importance for me to come, but I’m afraid it is in another town. You stood up, walking towards your house as you read on. As I’ve wrote before, I must go, as it is of importance. Before handing you this letter, I made a point to myself to tell you that this letter be read when I am gone. I have begun to realize, my feelings towards you are much more of a friend. And you are a capable woman, my, so very capable. So here it is, enough of my word rambling. Ms. Y/N. I love you. 

Sitting down on your bed, you read the last three words over and over again. You placed the letter down, sighing and drying your hands on your brown dress. Picking up the coffee stained paper back up again, you continued. 

I’m sorry this is so abrupt, but I am honored to be in love with a woman of your independence. And maybe the only reason I’m telling you this now is because I’ll be too far for you to catch me. Besides, you know me, I’m moving to fast for anyone to catch up, a quick fox you always said. So, by the time you read this, I’ll be on a carriage on the way to leave. I’m delighted to say you won’t catch me this time, just this once my dear. I am unsure of the length of my stay, but don’t forget me? It’d be unfortunate to forget a face like mine, will it not? 

Your friend and lovesick gentleman, Mr. Hong

Folding the letter and putting it under your pillow, you laid down. Staring at the dirty tinted white ceiling you shut your eyes, exhausted. You’d doubt you get any sleep tonight, not after the sudden confession as well as the settling emptiness for your now gone friend. 

“Damn you, Mr. Hong.”

A month had passed. You helped your mother and father with their daily chores and even went into town. And who knew there were so many outgoing people in the town, waiting for someone like you to befriend. 

“I’m glad you finally agreed to come with me. Isn’t being in your house all the time... boring?” Mingyu pressed. After meeting Mingyu, you found your life was short of boring, like when your previous relation was still around. 

“Please Mr. Kim, you act as if I am void of all fun. A girl of my nature practically created it you know.” You teased, putting your sheer ribbon around your face and faking awe. Mingyu gave a chuckle while lightly hitting your shoulder. You giggled and rested your head on his shoulder, giving a sigh.

“Mr. Kim, how much longer is the ride? In which direction do we travel?” You asked. You felt his shoulders square before he lightly moved your head off his side. Reaching into his jacket in a pocket, he pulled out a invitation, passing it to you. 

“A friend of mine, who was recently married, invited us to meet his new wife.” 

“Us?” You flipped the letter, looking for anything else, but found only the beautiful penmanship with a gold border. 

“Me, my dear, and a guest of my choosing. Don’t you know how to read?” He scolded. 

Passing the letter back to Mingyu, you rolled your eyes. Feeling more attached to the scenery, you suddenly saw a great building. A mansion, great and big with size with green on all sides. 

“How much longer was that?” Mingyu grabbed your cheek and pinched it. You slapped his hand away, giving a sharp look before you felt the carriage stop.

Mr. Kim helping you out the carriage, you two walked to the front doors, giving a few hard knocks.

The anticipation was killing, and just when you brought your hand up to give another knock the doors opened quickly.

There stood a tall man, round glasses hanging a bit low but still well enough to see fine. He gave you a quick glance, eyes landing on the even taller man next to you, a smile breaking across his face. 

“Mr. Kim,” the man pulled him in for a tight hug, eyes closing in joy. “I thought you’d never get here! You must come in, my wife is ecstatic to meet you!”

Bowing to the man, whose name you still haven’t been told, he returns it. Mingyu, watching the interaction, clears his throat. 

“Ms. Y/N, meet my close friend, Mr. Jeon. Mr. Jeon, Ms. Y/N.” He introduced you two. You gave a polite smile and he once again returned the favor. Grabbing you and Mingyu’s arms he pulled you two the common area. 

“Love? the guest are here!” Mr. Jeon called. Entering the room, you were stunned. The room was wide, holding a white piano to your left, and a woman was playing. The windows were big, and the curtains were these wine red, still with the only movement coming from someone passing it. In the middle were two sofas, one of which holding three men. 

Locking eyes with the man in the middle, you two stared at each other. Giving a polite bow, you changed directions, meeting gaze with the woman playing the piano.

“Mr. Kim, Mrs. Kim, It is a pleasure to meet you both.” She talked, her voice holding grace. 

Your face heated up, shaking your head at the misname. 

“Mrs. Kim?” You heard Mr. Hong ask.

“Ms. Y/N, is fine. I’m not yet courted properly.” You spoke out. Mrs. Jeon gave an understanding nod, still looking between you and Mingyu as if she was unconvinced. Holding her hand out to the couch, you and Mingyu sat down.

Holding your head down, and looking anywhere besides Joshua, you still felt his look on you. 

“Ms. Y/N, a word?” You heard him call. Looking up at him with a surprised look, you nodded after a moment of hesitation. 

Joshua linked your arm with his walking you out of the common area into the hallway. It seemed he knew the house very well, and walked you up the stairs. Reaching another room, he pushed you inside and closed the door behind him. Not yet turning around, you stared at his back, giving out a heavy sigh. 

You hit his back and heard him laugh. 

“What is so funny, Mr. Hong?” You continued to hit his back before he grabbed your hands in his big ones. “You left me! You told me you fancied me and then you left me, you crazy bastard!”

Joshua grabbed your pounding hands and gave a great laugh. You stared at him with an expression he could sum up to horror and started laughing even more. 

“Ms. Y/N, what are you even doing here?” He let go of your hands moving behind you. You turned around not letting him out of your sight and took in the room. 

It was a bedroom. A great mattress in the middle, with deep red coverings and white thin veils around the frame. 

“This was an invitation only was it not? Certainly you don’t think I followed you here?” You accused, a scoff leaving your lips. 

“You’re mistaken then. You have insulted me, I’m injured with your lack of careful accusation.” He holds his hand over his chest in feign hurt.

“Indeed Mr. Hong, perhaps I am not careful enough. But it doesn’t matter because you have still have explaining to do. Explain to me why you kiss and ran.” 

Joshua took a step towards you, eyes flickering between your eyes and mouth. He took your hand in his, bringing it up to his mouth, laying a kiss on your knuckles. 

Removing your hand from his grasp, your mouth agape, you gripped your dress. 

“I’m sorry.” He apologized. “Please forgive me, my dear. I’ve seem to forgotten you are not like me. A coward.”

Hiding your smile behind your hand, you let out a giggle, “You are a coward aren’t you?”

Giggling with you, he stepped even closer, you smile slowly leaving.

The door suddenly opened again leaving you two taking a quick step back from each other. Heads turning toward the door, you saw Mrs. Jeon peaking in.

“Am I impeding upon your conversation?” She asked, eyes covered by her hand. 

Separating yourself even further from Joshua, you walked towards her, “No. Worry not Mrs. Jeon.” 

She took you by your elbow, walking out the room. Looking behind you for Joshua, he was close behind giving a reassuring nod. 

Pulling you closer, Mrs. Jeon whispered, “Are you interested, perhaps me and my husband can be of some assistance in getting you two alone.”

Blushing, you both muffled your laughs, making Joshua raise his eyebrow. 

Finally reaching the dining room, you guys got seated. Joshua across from, Mingyu next to you. Mrs. Jeon and Mr. Jeon sat at the head of the tables and Mr. Chwe and Yoon were nowhere to be found.

“Where are my other two guests?” Joshua inquired. 

Mrs. Jeon held a slight smile, but quickly removed it off her face before anyone noticed. 

“They said they weren’t feeling of good health.” Mr. Jeon answered. 

Nodding to himself, the table started to eat. The table was silent, everyone doing their own thing, occasional clattering of plates from the maids. 

Sitting in the common room once again, the air was easy. Mrs. Jeon played the piano while you swirled your wine. As the piece she played ended, she yawned, standing up slowly.

“Shall we head off to bed?” She asked the room. Looking at Mingyu, you tilted your head in confusion. The rest of the party all nodded, minding you no business. 

“Ms. Y/N, you can have the room next to Mr. Hong’s.” Nodding and settling in, the night slowly became morning. 

Reading a book under a tree, you barely heard the ducks on the lake, nor did you hear the footsteps of the man who confessed and ran a month ago. 

“What are you doing dear?” 

Closing your book, you looked up Joshua. Staring long, you shook your head, focusing once again. 

“Um- reading,” standing up quickly, you stood tall before him. “Shall we continue our conversation? From yesterday?”

Joshua bit his lip, before nodding, avoiding eye contact and pulling you to sit down again. 

You two didn’t speak for a few moments. Just staring out at the lake, you felt your hand intertwine with his. 

“I must really apologize once again. What I did, dumping these emotions on you, so suddenly and then running away was a poor choice of mine. Reckless, and a poor trait of mine has always been moving too fast. But-But if you’d take me as yours-” Joshua trailed on.

“Mr. Hong.”

“I can make you happy. I can give you a library of your own, hell I will build it of my own hands-”

“Mr. Hong.” You called louder. Joshua still rambled barely taking a breathe of air between each word.

You reached over for Joshua’s face, pressing your lips against him in hopes he stopped talking. A noise of surprise escaped his mouth, the words stopped flowing and kissing you back. He places his hands over yours pressing his face into yours harder. Pulling away, you opened your eyes and found Joshua mouth open, and eyes closed.  

“Mr. Hong, I accept your offer.” You smiled.  

His eyes shot open, and he wore a bright smile, grabbing you by the waist and spinning you around. Giggling you held on to him as he laughed with a child’s happiness.

“Come on, we must tell the others of our engagement.” Joshua tugged you towards the mansion, barely giving you time to react, too excited. 

Pulling you into the common room, he held you close, grinning brightly. 

“I have important information to share with you all. It is of my excitement to announce the engagement of me and Ms. Y/N.” Joshua announced. 

Staring with wide eyes, Mingyu and Mr. and Mrs. Jeon all stood up quickly, like if the news was the most unbelievable. The group of three suddenly stood up and congratulated you both, cheering.

Mrs. Jeon pulled you to the side, “How was the alone time? Getting his guest to leave was the hardest task.”

You gave her an incredulous look before giggling and covering your mouth. Calling for her maids, Mrs. Jeon handed you a glass of wine.

“A celebration!”

Reading in front of the fireplace, legs pulled up to your chest, you felt Joshua place a kiss on your forehead. Glancing at him, you gave a small smile.

“Mr. Hong.” You acknowledged. He nudged your shoulder with a goofy smile.

“Mrs. Hong.” 

A/N : I feel as if this was rushed towards the end, but tbh i got writers block at the worst time and said fuck it and pushed through lol. any feedback is appreciated pls and thank u!! oh im nervous ha

[bitchin-beskar]

Folklore

Rating: T 

Word Count: 1.4k

A/N: Wow. Okay. This chapter just... it’s rough guys, I’m not gonna lie. I struggled writing this, not because I didn’t have any ideas, but because it’s sad. I cried so much writing this chapter, because I HATE sad stories. I like happy endings, and I much prefer to keep the angst to a minimum, but I also have to write when inspiration strikes, and Folklore has plenty of angsty material. I promise this story is going to have a happy ending (chronologically, at least) but before we get there, there’s going to sad parts, and this is one of them. Still, I hope you enjoy this chapter!

Tags: @mxndoscyarika, @theocatkov, @perropascal

Let me know if you’d like to be tagged in future chapters!

exile

You smiled as Charlie rambled on about his work, waving his hands around, his face animated as he told you about how he’d closed a business deal earlier that day. The two of you had gone out to dinner, and although the restaurant was somewhat nicer than you’d been used to, you were enjoying yourself. You’d been dating Charlie for close to three years now, and it had been wonderful. Charles Pennington was a perfect gentleman, and considering he was heir to Pennington Incorporated–a multi-billion dollar business–it made sense that he was always impeccably dressed, with impeccable manners. 

His mother hated you, but she pretended to tolerate you, for the sake of her son. She was sure you were using him for his money, but she couldn’t have been further from the truth. His father, on the other hand, loved you, or at least he loved to stare at you. Mr. Pennington had an unfaithful streak a mile wide, evidenced by the number of scandalous articles written about him, detailing trysts with pretty much any female that would breathe in a two foot radius from him. 

Even in spite of his parents, you loved Charlie. He was kind, and he treated you well. He was wealthy, and somewhat famous, exactly what your mother had always wanted for you. You hadn’t been poor growing up–far from it, your family was upper middle class–but your mother always wanted more. So when she’d found out you were dating, she was over the moon.

You didn’t particularly care what she thought, but it was nice for her to not be nagging you about your choice of partner every time the two of you talked.

“Darling, I have a question for you.”

You focused back on Charlie, feeling embarrassed that you’d been caught daydreaming. You nodded, gesturing for him to continue. 

Your eyes widened as instead of speaking, Charlie slid off of his chair, and moved to kneel on the ground in front of you. You covered your mouth with one hand, less out of surprised happiness and more out of stunned shock. He pulled a small, black velvet box out of his suit pocket, and your eyes flickered back and forth from his to that little box. You really shouldn’t have been as stunned as you were, but you’d never imagined that Charlie would actually propose to you. And now it was happening. In a public restaurant. Surrounded by people.

“My beloved, you are more dear to me than all of my possessions, my wealth, and my company. Would you do me the greatest honor, and become my wife?”

You could practically feel the stares of the people around you, everyone waiting on bated breath for you to speak. There was really only one answer you could choose. 

“Of course, of course I’ll marry you Charlie,” your answer was barely louder than a whisper, but with the silence in the restaurant, everyone hears you. Cheers and applause breaks out, and Charlie pulls the ring from the box, sliding it onto your finger. He presses a kiss to the ring, and you stare at it, noticing how large the emerald cut diamond is. It was never something you would have picked for yourself, but you can admit that it is a gorgeous ring. 

Charlie moves off the ground and back to his seat, nodding graciously as the wait staff rush over with complimentary champagne and dessert. The manager even comes out to congratulate the two of you, as well as to inform Charlie that both your meals are on the house. You’re embarrassed by all the attention, and as soon as you’re able, you excuse yourself to the ladies room. 

The bathroom is, thankfully, empty. You move over to the sink, turning on the cold water, and splashing some on your warm cheeks. You stare at your appearance in the mirror, taking in the expensive dress and jewelry, immaculate makeup and perfectly done hair-do. Your eyes fall once more on the ring adorning your left hand–huge and expensive–heavy on your finger. You feel… odd, when you look at it. Whenever you imagined a ring on that finger, it didn’t look anything like this. 

Shaking your head, you dry your hands and pat your cheeks dry as well, leaving the bathroom to head back to your table. You exit into the hallway, only for a hand to land on your upper arm. You turn quickly, and your eyes widen in surprise. 

“W–What the–” your voice shakes as your heart flutters traitorously. “Frankie, what are you doing here?” 

Your ex-boyfriend is standing before you, in a suit, of all things. A quiet little voice in the back of your head forces you to notice how handsome he looks, but you quash that voice as quickly as possible. He’s looking at you sheepishly, his hand rubbing nervously at the back of his neck, a habit he’s had the entire time you’ve known him. 

“I–I, I’m here with some friends, we’re celebrating Joshua’s engagement.” 

You nodded, remembering Joshua from high school. He’d been Frankie’s next door neighbor growing up, and although you hadn’t known him well, you were happy for him. 

“Well, good for him,” you said, inwardly cringing at how awkward you sounded. “I, um… I didn’t know he lived in town.”

Frankie shrugged. “He doesn’t but Cathy, his fiancée, does. We, uh, well, the guys drove down to help him surprise her.”

You nodded, shuffling back and forth on your tall heels. The silence between the two of you dragged on, and finally, you had to break it. “Well, I should head back, I–”

You were mid turn, throwing your thumb over your shoulder to gesture behind you when Frankie’s hand shot out, grabbing your wrist. You’re pulled back suddenly, and as you spin back around, you lose your balance, nearly falling if it weren’t for Frankie’s arm around your waist, hauling you upright and into his chest. 

Your hands land on his chest, clutching reflexively at his suit jacket, and his hand is still firmly around your wrist. You blink up at him for a moment, feeling your heart stutter at the look of longing in his eyes. Forcefully ignoring the fluttering of butterflies in your stomach, you swallow harshly and look away.

“Frankie, let me go–”

“Wait. Please–”

You’re already shaking your head, pointedly avoiding his eyes. “No, Frankie I can’t, don’t do thi–”

You cut off abruptly when Frankie slides his crooked forefinger underneath your chin, slowly lifting your head so that you’re looking him in the eye. “Please, mi amor, I just have one question.”

You bite your lip, trying hard to hold back the tears you know are coming. When you don’t say anything, Frankie takes that as an agreement, and speaks.

“Does he make you happy?”

You’re stunned, and your mouth falls open as you stare at Frankie. There’s a lump in your throat, and you struggle for words.

“I just,” Frankie sighs, shaking his head. “I need to know. Are you happy with him?”

You swallow again, but your mouth is dry, and you can feel the tears pooling in your eyes. You have to physically fight to open your mouth and push the words out, even with the voice in the back of your head yelling in protest. 

“Yes, he does make me happy, Francisco.” 

You wince when his full name slips out, and you can see the pain in his eyes. You know how it makes him feel when you say his full name, and for a second, you hate yourself for causing him pain, before you remember that you shouldn’t have that power over him anymore. 

Frankie slowly lets his arm drop from around your waist, and you shiver at the absence of warmth. His thumb brushes against your cheek, and you realize you’re crying. 

“I’m glad,” he whispers, before stepping back, further away from you. “You deserve all the happiness in the world.”

You stare at him for a moment, before turning and beginning to walk away, but not before hearing his whispered parting words.

“I’m just sorry it couldn’t be with me.”

***

“I think I’ve seen this film before

And I didn’t like the ending.

You’re not my homeland anymore.

So what am I defending now?”

[onwesterlywinds]

PROMPT #27: [EXTRA CREDIT]

A worst-case alternate timeline.

She clung to him the moment they brought her forth, such that he had to tear her away from him to get a better look at her. At first glance, she seemed unblemished, but she had been in their custody for more than a week; he'd known her to recover from black and blue bruises in half that time. Worst of all was that she did not cry as she clung to him, not as she had when he'd last seen her on Ala Mhigo's last day of freedom. Instead she trembled, shook with fear the likes of which he had never seen from her before, and he had no words at all with which to comfort her.

But even now, the Garleans would not take her from him again. He fought the first man who tried with manacled hands, shoving him into the stone wall of the dungeon with such force that he heard his skull crack through his helmet. He was halfway through with choking the second one when six guns pointed through the bars of their cage.

When he slipped into unconsciousness only a moment later, propelled into sleep through a haze of Garlean sedatives, he watched through his daughter's eyes, as helpless as she was, as they brought her in for experimentation.

---

"Ashelia?"

"Yeah, Daddy?"

He'd requested the training hall for their privacy and some fresh fruits from the viceroy's private shipment, and he'd been granted both. Now that he sat with her, under the glaring fluorescent lights they'd installed, he doubted either would make much of an impact.

"Now that we're beginning to create new lives for ourselves, under Garlemald..." The words rang hollow, even to him. "...it's come time for us to take up new identities as well. New names."

She nodded, but nothing in her bright eyes registered understanding.

"It's something I did often as a Riskbreaker," he continued. "I would have any number of names that I would pick and choose from, as part of a disguise. It would help keep me and you and your mother and Aunt Alma safe - to make sure no one could find us if there was an accident."

"Has there been an accident, Daddy?"

"No." Not yet. "But it's still important to be careful. If you're a-" He couldn't bear to say it - the word "soldier." "If you're here, with me, you have to be undercover. I'll need to make a new name, and you will too."

For the first time, she frowned, as sure a sign as any that she was deep in thought. She stared down at the apple slice in her hand but did not bring it to her mouth. "But if I get a new name... how will Edge and Joshua and Frimelda find me?"

As always, she asked the questions he had no answers for. "If they're still alive," he began uncertainly, "then I imagine you'll find them, someday. If it's meant to be."

He had already been instructed not to speak to her of the Twelve. Whatever comment he had made previously had been so innocuous that he barely remembered it, but the warning had been severe - accompanied by a veiled threat to void his future visits.

"Will Mama and Aunt Alma still know who I am, up in the heavens?"

"Always." He reached out to tuck her hair behind her ear, but she did not lean into the touch. "And they will love you no matter what your name is."

At last, she broke into her gut-wrenching sobs.

"I’ve decided I’ll be Rosenheim," he whispered to her. "In one of the old tongues, it means 'the home of the rose.' Aldous Rosenheim - what do you think of that name for a disguise?" When she did not respond, he asked, "Would you like to hear the name I've chosen for you?"

She heaved a few shuddering breaths, and nodded.

"It's Vera. Vera Rosenheim." He hated that her sobs stilled almost at once. "Mondeberta kept it in her kitchen; do you remember?" He certainly remembered all too well the time she had plucked a sprig of one, with the intention of eating it whole on a dare. "It can be used for... healing." And for making a serum strong enough to render a grown woman catatonic in the Undercity for more than a year of her life. But it was the only Ala Mhigan herb that could pass as a Garlean praenomen. "It's a wonderful name."

"NO!" she screamed, jumping to her feet. "I'm ASHELIA!"

"Ashelia Marco Riot." He allowed himself the indulgence of the full name Tia had chosen for her, not knowing when it would leave his lips again. "Ashelia, listen to me. You will always be my daughter. And I will love you to my dying breath and beyond." That was the most he could promise her. Even he had heard of the children van Baelsar had taken away - children of nobles and merchants and commoners alike. He could not swear that she would not be among their number before long. "But we can't let any more Garleans know who you are, can we? This is part of what it means to be in disguise. We'll have to pretend, perhaps for a very long time. But I'll-"

She ran from him then, for the first time in her life. When at last he found her, curled up in an abandoned corner of the research wing, he could not bear to comfort her with her new name or her old one.

---

To the Garleans, it was the first time she'd snuck out since the new year. Rosenheim knew differently, thanks to his dreams. His daughter had made a habit of leaving her chambers on nights when the viceroy was due to return and the guards' rotations were thinner in her wing. From there, she'd sneak out along the palace ramparts, steal down into the gutter, and find a quiet outcropping of Undercity territory long since abandoned by any self-respecting dweller.

By the time the knock came to his door to inform him that Vera was out of bed, he'd seen her sit at her destination for more than an hour of unbroken solitude. The only reason he was awake was that their connection had been cut - severed by an abrupt end to her concentration.

He shrugged on a uniform with the vague excuse of joining the search, only he knew precisely where to go. He knew better, too, than to follow her exact paths; a quicker route lay within the palace itself, and he was loath to surrender her own means of escape. For a single heartbeat of a moment, as he breathed in the midnight air, it was enough for him to recall himself as a boy, albeit older then than his daughter was now, exploring the Undercity for the first time.

When he at last came upon the place, it was somehow grander in person than through the eyes of a child’s dreams. He had remembered this hideout as an old weapons cache, littered with rusting swords and moldering barrels. Although the Echo had presented to him the change that had been wrought since he had last set foot here, he nevertheless could not believe his eyes: what had once been a useless, deserted corner of the Undercity was now transformed into an immaculate shrine to Rhalgr, decorated with trinkets and lit up by blue-burning candles.

He did not find his daughter there alone.

"Walker," came a familiar, imperious voice.

The Black Wolf, shorn of his helm and garbed in a simple leather coat, leaned in a corner. Vera copied his pose nearer to the cavern's entrance. The shrine gleamed along the far wall, as though in witness.

"Lord van Baelsar." He inclined his head but gave no further greeting, waiting instead for the viceroy to explain his presence here of all places. He did not, and neither would Vera meet his eyes.

"Would you care to explain to your father," said Gaius van Baelsar to Vera, "why you chose to leave your chambers?"

Vera bit her lip. Still she stared at her own feet.

"As you explained to me," the legatus continued, "you came here to pray to Rhalgr on behalf of your late mother."

The words hit Rosenheim with a pang of guilt. It was, of course, the 27th Sun of the 5th Umbral Moon - Tia's birthday. A day he had not even known that Vera had remembered, and which he certainly had not.

"Share with your father what I said to you."

Her voice was quiet but firm. "That reliance on false gods is a weakness."

"You are among the best and brightest of your generation, Vera. You will make a name for yourself in Garlemald, should you continue to excel. But you will not excel so long as you succumb to worship. Do I make myself clear?"

"Yes, my lord."

But that was not all. The viceroy showed no sign of satisfaction as he stared down at Vera, and Vera continued stifling her words through her clenched jaw. At last, she demanded, "Why can't I join the Crania Lupi?!"

"You are twelve years old, Vera," Rosenheim said before he could stop himself.

"You've much still to learn," van Baelsar added. Rosenheim found himself glad for the man's agreement. "And your role in Case 72 takes precedence over-"

"NO!"

Rosenheim forced himself to draw breath, to steady himself, to ready for any sign of anger from the most powerful man in occupied Ala Mhigo. But van Baelsar did not move. Instead he watched, along with Rosenheim, as Vera's hands balled into fists and she alternated her fury toward each of them and then to the altar.

"I hate being in that stupid tank!" she screamed. "I'm not learning anything, I'm not getting better - I'm just stealing power from dead things and I HATE IT!"

After a beat of silence, in which her words echoed endlessly around them, Gaius van Baelsar stepped forward from the wall. He drew himself up to his full height, there in the Undercity passage, and looked down at the girl before him with an expression Rosenheim could not read.

"I will repeat what I said before," he said, slowly, "only once. You, Vera oen Rosenheim, have the means to excel among the Empire. But you cannot honor your gifts - be they from your father or from the XIIth - if you traffic in savagery."

With no more words of admonishment, van Baelsar left the tunnel, leaving a teary-eyed Vera to follow closely in his wake.

---

Camilla was already shouting by the time he entered the briefing room, though not to anyone in particular. A notarius he had never seen before was still scribbling notes, as though she had not yet been informed to disregard her commanding officer whenever she became like this. A trio of privates shifted uncomfortably at attention, one of them still sporting a deep cut to their upper arm.

"Walker," she snapped, rounding on him at once. "Where is Seraph?"

"I've not seen her yet, ser," he replied. "I imagine she's only moments behind."

"She was instructed to arrive with you, at her earliest convenience."

"What's happened, ser?" She would hate him questioning her in front of so many, especially subordinates - but it would be best to get it out of the way before Vera arrived.

Sure enough, she bristled visibly. "She disobeyed a direct order; that's what happened."

Surely she of all people would not think him capable of buying that. "I was on backup outside Specula Imperatoris," he reminded her, as if she needed reminding of his role in this whole ordeal. "No new orders came in-"

"'No new orders came in'?" Camilla repeated, her voice breathy with affront.

"-and she carried out her existing instructions, as per the briefing."

She drew close enough to jab a finger into his chest. "Do not play the fool with me, Walker! You know as well as she does that the presence of a superior officer in the field takes precedence."

"And you know as well as I do, Pilus-" He scanned the room for the faces of any who might be stupid enough to relay what they were hearing to anyone else, and decided to chance it. "-that if literally anyone else had shown up, we wouldn't be having this conversation."

"Or perhaps if your daughter wasn't an arrogant, insubordinate bitch-"

"What, that's all?"

Vera had slipped in, unbeknownst to them both, still wearing her mud-spattered protective gear and her white hair coming loose from its high Garlean bun. Whatever retort he had for Camilla flew from his mind at once. Echo or no, it would never not be a relief to see her in the flesh after a mission.

Camilla rounded on her at once. "What were you playing at out there?!" she demanded.

Though the pilus towered over her in her heels, Vera remained utterly unfazed. "I carried out my existing instructions, as per the briefing."

"Do not test me! Your petulance has made a mockery of yourself and your project."

"Of you, you mean."

"How dare-"

"I slew every target we identified as a threat, and more besides," Vera pointed out, her voice quickly growing cold. "I took out more than a dozen Resistance leaders in all, and I gathered intelligence on a figure creating a schism in their ranks. You mean to tell me I was supposed to step aside from a mission I spent half a year preparing for, forsake what could be my only chance of recognition, because some spoiled little princeling decided to finally grace colonial soil?"

He could not fault her the words. He felt them and shared them, somewhere deep in the pit of his stomach.

"You will hold your tongue!" Camilla screamed, leaning her face into Vera's. "And mark me: you will be held accountable for your disrespect!"

The door slammed open, causing the three anxious privates to jump. Camilla whirled about, teeth gritted; Vera did not so much as turn to face the newcomer.

"F-Forgive me, Pilus," he stammered through an imperial salute. "I bear a message from Crown Prince Zenos yae Galvus. He seeks an audience with the one who, ah, 'interfered with his hunt.'"

With a wordless glare at Camilla, Rosenheim gave a single nod to acknowledge the summons and strode out in the direction of the Hall of the Griffin. He did not need the Echo to tell him his daughter was at his back.

"You did well today," he murmured, once he knew they were alone.

"Why are you still fucking her?" she retorted.

Another difficult question. "The crown prince will likely seek to test you. You can take my sword."

She did so, albeit with a scoff of frustration; hers had gotten cracked during her battle with a man the others had called Meffrid. Still, she could likely sense his unease, and twenty years together had taught them both not to argue against the other's intuition.

"You'll be alright." He wasn't quite certain where the platitude came from, even as it left him, but his daughter’s eyes widened as she nodded.

Twenty minutes later, she emerged from the throne room as the right hand of the new viceroy.

[pastorjdo3]

MOSES: VICTORIOUS THROUGH JOSHUA

And Joshua captured all the cities of these kings, and all their kings, and he struck them with the edge of the sword, and utterly destroyed them; just as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded. Joshua 11:12

Joshua, fresh of facing the 5 kings led by gathered by king Adoni-Zedek of Jerusalem, once again faces a conglomeration of kings led by Hazor. Hazor followed the same pattern as Adoni-Zedek faces the same fate. Fighting the servant of God proved to be as expected. He gathered other kings, aware that he needed the help of every king he could amass to defeat the King of Kings.

These victories displayed the power of the Kingdom of God; Israel, and the faith and leadership of Joshua. But not only did they display the power of their army, the confirmed the power of God’s Word. While everyone was carrying out the battle plan, Joshua was fighting with more than the agreement between his captains and generals, He was fulfilling the Word of the Lord.

Long before Joshua faced his first king, he was privy to walk along side his mentor and spiritual father Moses. Moses, though gone, was still present in the life of Joshua, having served him greatly through both word and deed. Joshua had watched Moses spend time with the Lord, and marveled as he walked in faith according to what he heard from God.

Joshua watched Moses believe as he wandered in the wilderness. Joshua watched as Moses stood outside the promised land, believing God for what had yet to be obtained. Joshua watched Moses respond to his return with the fruit from the land and saw his steady face and hand as he talked about the giants in the land that were waiting to defend their territory. Joshua listened as Moses recount the promise of God, and march forward believing the providence of God.

Watching and Listening to Moses; Joshua was shaped, molded and convicted about himself and about the God he serves.

Moses was standing with Joshua in this moment. He learned from Moses and was following his example. Moses stood victorious in the wars won by Joshua and Israel because they were Prophesied first to Moses. Even in Joshua’s victory, Moses was validated as God’s servant.

Moses was promised that Israel would lay the kings in the promised land to rest, along with their people, their culture and their gods. Though this did not occur in Moses’ life time, God’s Word was fulfilled in Joshua’s life time. Moses died having seen and experienced the fruit from the promised land, but did not received the promise or the prosperity it would bring. He died knowing God would fulfill it, but knowing he wouldn’t get fulfillment from it. Yet, he served and continued to lead the his people.

Joshua was the continuation of what God started through Moses. He walked towards a promise not given to him, but fulfilled through him. Joshua had to believe that God would honor His word in His own time. Joshua, like Moses, had to accept God’s promise as true, though it was guarantee without a delivery date. Joshua and Moses had to walk in faith, and help other’s overcome doubt through their faith.

So the question for us today is not… “Will God Fulfill His promise?”, but “When will God Fulfill His Promise?”

A Promise from God is not like a Promise from man. Man fulfills his word based on the his feelings about The Circumstances, and God fulfills His Word because of His Character. Man’s circumstances are a variable to any equation, but the character of God is consistent.

Joshua was able to live out the fulfillment of a promise made to His predecessor. Why? He saw why his predecessor wasn’t able to fulfill the promise made to him. Moses missed the promise because he didn’t believe God’s Word, thus didn’t follow His instructions.

Joshua was determined to be obedient to God, trusting His Word to become a fulfilled promise.

Joshua chose to speak to his rock. And God chose to honor His Word! Are you speaking to your rock?

What do you believe about God’s Word? Are you willing to follow God’s Word? Are you willing to push beyond your fears? Are you willing to take on major challenges? What do you believe about God’s Word both Past and Present?

We pray for the improbable! We seek the impossible! But don’t believe that all things are possible.

The improbable is not possible or probable with God, but it is actual. You can depend on God’s Word, and will experience great victories, accomplishing great feats, and overcoming great challenges when we depend on God. Sadly, there are some undefeated kings because we have not been obedient to the Word God gave us.

I believe victory is found when we are obedient to His will and willing to sacrifice our fear, will, desires, and ego which often prevent us fully trusting and stepping out on His word and truth. God’s Word is a stable foundation, and we must remain steadfast, trusting it as not to creating new paths that are more comfortable to abide in.

#PastorJDO3

[city-of-ladies]

(Picture by Lauren Brevner for National Geographic)

Mavia - The queen who defied Rome

Mavia (r. c. 375-c. 425), warrior queen of the semi-nomadic Tanukhid Arab tribe of Syria and Jordan, was among the women who defied Rome’s military might. However, unlike Iceni queen Boudica or Palmyrene queen Zenobia, she was successful and negotiated peace with the Romans on her own terms.

The primary source for Mavia’s story is Rufinus of Aquileia’s (c. 345-411 CE)  Ecclesiastical History. Later authors also told her story or expended it. One them, Sozomen (c. 400-450 CE), mentions the existence of Arab poetry recounting her exploits. There are also several versions of the queen’s name: Mavia, Maowiva, Mu`awiya, Mauia, Mania, and Mawiyya. 

Under the rule of Mavia’s husband, whose name is lost to history, the Tanukhids were allies of Rome. They received a subsidy to protect the Roman borders against raids from Persia and other enemy tribes. It is worth noting that the Roman empire was at that time facing many difficulties as invaders threatened both its Eastern and Western border. 

After her husband’s death, Mavia chose a different path and revolted against Rome. Her motivations are not clear, it could be linked to the fact that emperor Valens (328-378) tried to impose the nomination of an Arian bishop in her region. Mavia could also have felt offended because the Romans assumed that she would honor her husband’s agreement and did not negotiate directly with her. 

Mavia proved to be a deadly adversary, personally leading her armies on the field. The Roman army were not prepared to fight the highly mobile Arabs who used guerilla and hit-and-run tactics. Rufinus thus wrote that Mavia “disturbed” the regions of Palestine and Arabia and laid “waste to neighboring provinces”. Sozomen wrote that: “this war was by no means a contemptible one, although conducted by a woman”. 

The Romans finally understood they could not defeat her and were forced to accept her terms. Mavia asked for a monk of her region to be appointed as the new bishop. This could imply that she and her people were Christians, but the ancient accounts do not seem to support this view. Mavia also had her daughter marry a Roman officer named Victor. 

As Roman cities were later besieged by the Goths in 378, Mavia sent her cavalry to Constantinople’s help. Theodosius I (379-395) negotiated peace with the Goths around 382, but the Tanukhids felt betrayed by the terms and revolted again in 383. It is not known if Mavia was involved in this revolt. It is nonetheless believed that she still ruled in 425 since an inscription bearing her name has been discovered. Some scholars have argued that it could be a reference to another woman since Mavia was a common name at that time. It is nonetheless more commonly accepted that it refers to the queen.

References:

Mark Joshua D., “Mavia”, Ancient History Encyclopedia

Toler Pamela D., Women warriors, an unexpected history