#May the path guide you South

[ghosting-medium]

・❥・ South ˗ˏˋ꒰ ☀️ ꒱

Moodboard made by @moonlight1237 Information mainly from me

Looks Like:

Credit: Left on Twitter (X) @RDJlock | Right: Path of the Phoenix Journeys with Ana

Ignore skin tone she has almost pure light like golden rays almost too bright to look at her. South's dress came down and spread across the sky in a over hanging dazzle. She had these wings of a Phoenix with what looked like a spear or sword of sorts. Her eyes were just this sparkle of a sunspot and a she wore a golden Helm in one vision and these rays of light came off her eyes where she looked. Human skin tone would be like a crisp tan - Moon 

Palace, Residence:

Residence is high up in the air, phoenixes are high up in the air near the Palace. There is a village down below, and methods of getting to the Palace. There is a side section of the Palace meant for village folk to talk to South about her ruling, then a separate chamber for her rooms and private living areas. There is a large, and lavish ballroom and dining area meant for parties, and if invited you are allowed to enter this area. Although, she is not as private as North or West she still has rooms that are not meant for anyone but her. The architecture of the Palace is reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles. Respectively the village below is not peasant French countryside, it's moderately nice and a large shadow is casted from the Palace onto the village providing shade and cooler temperatures.

Ruling, Domain:

Ruling Reading: 5/31/2023 - I pulled cards with the Modern Witch Tarot Deck to see what South ruled over; Empress, Queen of cups, Tower, Magician, Ace + Page + 8 of Wands, 6 of Pentacles, 3 of Wands, 7 of Wands, Moon + Sun (luminary deity), Lovers + 2 of Cups (a more romance, self-love epithet but it falls under the South and not just the epithet)

South rules over confidence, courage, self-love, emotional maturity, compassion, being in touch/flow with emotions, passion, creativity, generosity, abundance, expansion, progression, opportunities, resourcefulness, taking action and charge, strategic war/battle plans, competitive, athleticism, challenges, perseverance, orderly chaos, as well as sudden upheaval and chaos, transformation, as well as love, harmony, peace, diplomacy, as well as deep and emotional connections, and luminary magic

Domain: As we know her palace is high up in the sky, with phoenix’s circling it and living inside a special part of the palace. She has her own phoenix in her personal room, and it follows her into her throne room, meeting room, basically anywhere she goes. She has rooms for meetings with others, as well as more battle/armory rooms. Lavish rooms, with maximalism decoration. It feels rich and powerful with every step and turn in the palace. She spends most of her time in the sun room (last picture of her Palace/Residence photos). She asks to be left alone while in this room unless her brother is visiting from the Southeast. Many times her and her brother spend time on the balcony overlooking everything in their point of view.

The palace itself is very warm, but not warm enough to break a sweat unless your running around the place constantly.

The walkway leading to the palace almost falls off, there is a village/town beneath the palace far up in the sky. People can stay in this spot if they are visiting the South and cannot immediately get up there, or need a spot to spend the night after meeting with her before going back to the middle of the compass esque area. It’s a beautiful sight to see the palace get more into view when walking towards it, seeing streaks and flashes of red, oranges, white, and gold is fascinating to see.

Correspondences:

Days of the Week:

Sunday, Tuesday

Sunday - day of the Sun, perfect day for unwinding, connecting with your inner self, and if the weather calls for it soaking up some of the rays. Tap into yourself and reflect on your growth as a person, and spiritually. Give yourself the time you need to rest, and relax on Sunday. Near the end of the day try and get centered and refocused on the week ahead. Energy and emotions might feel soft and gentle on Sunday, you might be a bit more groggy than usual. Allow your body to feel these things and take the time you need to rest, and recharge. If you feel productive use that energy and get some things done!

Tuesday - ruled by the planet of action and energy, Mars. Due to this ruling it’s a great day to get things done. With North ruling Monday (and Monday setting tones), use the energy and momentum from Monday into Tuesday. If you wanted to get something done, now is the time. Launch projects, and try and get ahead of tasks you have on Tuesday. Make clear goals and plans on Tuesdays, and set out and do them or get them done to the best of your ability.

Special Days:

Summer Solstice

Solar + Lunar Eclipses

Pride Month

August 9th - Day of South’s Festival

It’s a hotter day than normal on the day of this Festival. What’s interesting about it is that the celebration happens at South’s Palace and people are taken up on phoenix's backs (don’t worry they don’t hurt, or burn - South). It’s not all fire, and sun appreciation and beauty, it’s also a moment to reflect on yourself and the other things South represents. There are certain rooms that are used in the palace; such as a ballroom, a foyer, a lookoff point/balcony, and a large room decorated beautifully typically meant for eating food, and gathering in small groups if you wanted to talk and chat in peace. Everything else is “off limits” according to South, unless there is special permission and clearance from South to go with her to certain rooms. South loves a party though, and is typically seen with a lot of people surrounding her, and chatting with her. Trying to get personal one on one conversations might be hard to get during the celebration. There is music playing in each of the rooms, and the genres typically shift from something upbeat, to classical. A mix of fancy royal music and partyish music. There is no certain culture that this celebration is based off, so there are foods from many cultures.

Drinks: Wine, Other liquor, a punch? (not spiked), colder refreshments, agua fresca, agua dulca, thai iced tea, yellow tea, infused water, water

Food: any and almost all food you can think of, it’s very lavish, barely any hot meals due to the temperature at the palace, colder food (but it doesn’t look cold - South)

Elements:

Fire, Water

Why is Water a Secondary Element, and not Air since your residence is in the sky?

“Water is my secondary element, since Fire is an emotional sign. My passion is something that is a deep emotion inside me. Water is life, life cannot exist without water, and fire needs energy and life to thrive. Many people assume that fire and water are opposite to each other, but water and earth are more polar opposite signs however they can find harmony and peace. Same with fire and water, it’s an abnormal pairing but that doesn’t mean it’s automatically negative. Since when has abnormal, or odd meant bad, evil, or negative? People should really dismantle that mindset, and just because something is a “perfect” pairing doesn’t mean it’s without flaw. Water and fire are both seen as living energies, things that flow and move. Water and fire are as equally benevolent and helpful as it is malevolent and destructive."

Numbers:

5, 7, 10

5 - the halfway mark, reevaluate yourself and what’s happening around you. Now is the time to change your surroundings if you feel something isn’t working or beneficial to your plan; maybe even adding something that might make your goal more achievable. Change of perspective, improvement, introspection, loyalty, emotional stability/instability, freedom, prosperity, self-motivation

7 - Strange experiences will start to occur more frequently, check in on yourself and your wards. You might see a high frequency of chaos happening, don’t be terribly afraid of it. Reestablish authority and courage in yourself, reevaluate your thinking and thought patterns and remember to be kind and generous to yourself. Strange experiences, grounding, self-love, check wards, controversy, clarity, assertiveness may be needed, leadership, honesty

10 - 10 is typically the energy of the number 1 and 0, due to the fact that it’s a double digit it would be reduced to the number 1. However, the number 10 itself has its own energy. 10 is about completion, something is in the physical world and it’s completed. 10 typically is a sign to start thinking of something new, or preparing for a new cycle. 10 is a more extreme version of 9, it shows that sometimes it’s better to be content when something is finished so it doesn’t go extreme and be potentially harmful. There is a gamble though, sometimes taking things a step further can produce beautiful results and be better than ending where it stopped.

Colors:

Orange

Red

Teal

Yellow

Gold

White

Planet:

Sun - typical association, not the strongest out of the bunch; typically also known as a luminary or a star. It represents the self, one’s personality, ego, identity as a whole. Sun, ruled by Leo and the 5th house has connection to creative ability, and courage. The sun’s energy is powerful, authoritative, leadership, it’s a commanding energy. Which makes sense given the fact that South is seen with weaponry and such (same with Southeast too). The sun is seen as regal amongst astrology as well, as well has health and vitality. A lot of these connections reinforce the idea of whom South is, and partially what she presides over.

Mars - action planet of the zodiac, ruled by Aries (a fire sign). Energy, passion, drive and determination can fall and under the rule of Mars. Mars also has a connection with the military, and South commands her own part of a militia force (Unsure whether or not to say army/military as of right now 05.31.2023) All about getting things done, being confident in your abilities, and being ambitious and determined to get the things you want. South encourages facing your challenges, however, with a battle plan. Don’t rush into things without some form of mental plan, like a back up plan. Doesn’t have to be extensive or over the top, just something in place just in case. Mars can either be very constructive or destructive, much like Fire and Water can. Don’t get so determined, headstrong, and stubborn that you forget your original goal, and brush off helpful advice and perspectives from others.

Pluto - Ironic enough, Pluto is the planet furthest away from the Sun. Which speaks to South’s wide range, and duality. Although, the planet is physically small it packs a very strong punch in terms of energy. Pluto is the planet of transformation, regeneration, and rebirth. Very much like South’s representative animal the phoenix. Things may not look aesthetic on the outside of this planet, but that’s not Pluto’s goal. “Out with the old, in with the new”. The result of this transformation is to be stronger on the other side. The darker side of this planet also rules destruction, death, and a personal association with chaos. Which this follows South’s path of orderly chaos, thought out menace activities. Pluto can be an interpersonal planet, however it has more of an affect on larger groups of people and humanity.

Zodiac Signs:

Fire Signs - Aries, Leo, Sagittarius

Virgo

Animals:

Phoenix

Gryphin

Sphinx

Chimera

Lion

Eagle

Fox

Salamanders

Dragons

Plants, Fruits, Flora:

Allspice

Aloe

Angelica

Ash

Banana

Blood Root

Carnation

Celandine

Chrysanthemum

Columbine

Coriander

Dragon’s Blood

Foxglove

Ginger

Ginseng

Hibiscus

Iris

Lemon

Lily

Mandrake

Marigold

Nutmeg

Orange

Peach

Rosemary

Rue

Saffron

Snapdragon

Strawberry

Vanilla

Essential oils/incense:

If you can find any incense/oil from above than apply that to here

Crystals:

Amazonite

Amber

Amblygonite

Aragonite

Bismuth

Black Obsidian

Bloodstone

Botswana Agate

Bronzite

Carnelian

Citrine

Clear Calcite

Clear Quartz

Desert Rose Selenite

Fire Agate

Fluorite

Green Calcite

Moonstone

Sunstone

Tangerine Quartz

Tiger Eye

Yellow Jasper

Divination associations:

Tarot:

The Sun

The Lovers

4 of Swords

6 of Swords

Queen of Wands

Ace of Wands

Willow, Four of Earth - Herbcrafter’s Tarot (From Moonlight); Be wise of your resources, be flexible yet sturdy, strong roots help young sprouts grow. Take time to gather your resources respectfully, and carefully, tend to them well. Create space to preserve what you’ve gained

Family:

Brother - Southeast

History, Mythology:

Epithets:

Splendent South, or sometimes known as Shining South - means brightly shining, illustrious, great

Eternal Radiance; The one who shines, she who shines eternal - along the same lines of Splendent South. Directly references and emphasizes her connection to brightly shining

Commander, other high military rank titles - Military/battle/war epithet. This epithet shows South with her helm, weapon, and phoenix with her at all times. Her eyes shine brighter, and more piercing while being referenced with this epithet. She seems more aggressive, more ambitious, determined here (more Mars like energy)

Ambassador of the South - diplomat epithet, this would be the epithet she would take on while talking with other directions (maybe?).

Protector of love - love, harmony, LGBTQ+ love protection in specific anything under the umbrella of the LGBTQ+ label would fall under her protection here

Pandemonic Kaos - chaos, straight up chaos.

Metamorphic - transformative change, more channeling pluto energy here.

She who rises out of the ashes - phoenix form/epithet, an epithet that focuses on being able to overcome challenges and conflict stronger than previous.

Bringer of Light - another light/sun association

Bringer of destruction - an association of light/sun/heavy waters in a negative light, as well as chaos. Many people might associate this with the onset of illness, plague specifically. Something that happens to a mass of people might be attributed to this epithet.

Offering & Devotional Acts:

Listening to Music: Blackpink, Red Velvet, Itzy

Spending time in the sun, or looking at sun imagery - keeping indirect or direct sunlight in your room/place of worship

Worshipping her brother as well

Watching the sun rise, and set

Spreading awareness, and donating to charities for the LGBTQ+ community

Spreading awareness, donating to charities for combating against Climate Change

Practice glamor magic

Wear her colors in your everyday clothing, makeup, or even a veil

Writing, and saying affirmations to yourself

Writing, and meditating on manifestations

Starting a new hobby, and trying to do it whenever you have time (preferably weekly)

If you have difficulty feeling your emotions, taking some time for yourself and try feeling them

Allowing yourself to feel emotions (and moving on from them if needed)

Try painting, or other artistic artforms and express yourself; or even (if you can) try channeled art or something amongst those lines

Keep phoenix artwork somewhere on your altar (either digital, physical; if you have neither of these save a photo of a phoenix somewhere on a device)

If you find you have a lot of something, share some with others and with South (she is a deity of abundance, and generosity)

Take opportunities when you have the chance to/if it works in that time frame

Be resourceful and use what you have on hand if making things for South! Use nature, and your creative abilities as they are

Have a suncatcher in your room!

If possible have a flame while communicating with her

Read the candle wax!

Fire Scrying

Wear sunscreen

Talk to the people you love, and who make you happy!

Altar Suggestions:

Cloth, colors - red, orange, gold, white, yellow

Candles in her colors + herbs associated with her

Imagery of phoenixes

Suncatchers

Anything artistic you might have! Extra paintbrushes, sheet music, poetry, pencils, pens, sculptures

Empty clear bottles, and filling them with pretty things you find in nature

Terrariums

Favorite summer items

Pride flags (if you have any + are queer)

Any crystals + plants, herbs, flora, or divination associations listed above

Pressed flowers: marigolds, carnations etc etc

Items foraged in the summer

have the altar be facing south

Wands (a tool that could even be a stick! don’t forget be resourceful. Although South is lavish, she doesn’t expect everything of hers to be fancy)

If you have the ability, add something gold colored, gold

If you want add sentimental items to her altar

Stuffed animals + plushies

Oil diffuser

Orange + Lemon + Other associations

Sun water

That is all the documented information that we have on South currently ☀️

Signing off, Ghost ⋆.ೃ࿔*:･

[aliceinborderlandsquidgame]

An old feeling (and obsession) | In-oh x Fem!Player!Reader | PT2

PT1

Warnings: S2 Spoilers - Canon violence - May be OOC - Obsess In-ho - Player 095 lives!! - Anxiety - Sad!Reader -

Notes: Welcome to PT2 if you come from PT1. I decided to divide this piece since I think the ending of PT1 was good but I also wanted to add this too. However I was not 100% in with how things were going in PT1.

This can be read as a stand alone piece.

In-ho wondered once more when his plan went south. His main goal was to destroy Gi-hun and show him how human nature never changes. He was not prepared to meet you, and for you to become so important to him in such a short period of time.

He did wonder if you had a secret on you, just a few hours you were still suffering from the Migle game but now here you were besides him shooting with rage at the guards, his guards.

Fuck did he feel conflicted cause each guard that you managed to kill did made him feel proud of you. Even if you were leaving him short-staffed alongside player 120.

"In-ho you copy?" Gi-hun's voice came from the radio. He took it out and responded then listened to the shoots and his ask for backup.

"Alright im going" In-ho responded screaming to the rest that Gi-hun needed backup, two players were quick to accept.

He took notice on how you stopped, you were still scared but then you also nodded

"Im going too"

"Alright, I will be going first you three follow me" He said then whispered to you since you were closer "Dont put yourself in front unless I say so"

The four of you advanced around the corridors he knew so well but had to fake he did not.

Finally they crossed paths with Gi-hun and Jung-Bae.

"I think we can go around them" In-ho lied to Gi-hun who accepted and gave him a extra charger.

In-ho guided all of you, making you stop or advance, making sure you were safe away from any suprised shoot.

Finally the four of you stood behind the guards, In-ho moved his head signaling the three of you to advance but you had to stay besides him.

He knew what he had to do, but did hurt him deeply, he could just wait that you wont hate him too much.

The shoots sounded so close to you that took you off guard, then you saw In-ho pointing his riffle at you, his face void from any emotion.

"In-ho..."

"Im sorry (Y/N)" Was the last thing you hear then you felt the back of the riffle on your head knocking you out.

He held you so you wouldn't hit the floor, he took the radio to make Gi-hun think all of you were indeed dead then changed channels and told his guards to put a end to this.

Near him a door opened, guards coming from it one of them saw your body and went to shoot you only to be stopped by In-ho stern voice.

"Take her to the infarmary, no one touches her, if I see even one hair out of place you will be responding directly to me, do you understand?"

The guard lowered their gun and nodded going to carry you.

In-ho saw your limp body be moved towards the infarmary, he knew no one would question his orders. He was more afraid of the outcome once you wake up.

"Sir" another guard called him with his clothes of Front Man at hand. He let out a breath, whatever the outcome was it would have to wait.

He still needed to punish Gi-hun and move on with the games.

But one thing was clear in his mind.

No one would hurt you, you were going to be safe.

Safe besides him.

[starastrologyy]

Astrology Observations♣️

My chart readings are still open, the link is in the bio for those who are interested x

When the ruler of your solar return midheaven is in the 1st house, you will have to be very proactive about your career/career advancement that year. This is also a placement you often see in a year where someone receives a lot of recognition for what they do for work.

Lilith in the 3rd house of a natal chart can make someone feel like the “black sheep” among their peers in their early schooling years. You may have been bullied, ostracized, or made to feel left out.

Where you have the planet Mars in your natal chart will represent the areas of life that you will most likely have to defend. For example, if you have a natal 2nd house Mars, you will often have to defend your values (and maybe even your finances). If you have Mars in the 10th you may have to defend your reputation or your career choices etc..

On the topic of careers, if you do not resonate with the stereotypical careers that are associated with your midheaven, you should look at the planets in your 10th house or the planets making an aspect to your MC. For example, let’s say you’re a Libra Midheaven but have no interest in the law, politics, diplomacy, beauty etc.. In this instance, you may find that Uranus is making a trine to your MC this could explain why you may be drawn to a career in technology, science, or social media (this is just an example). So, you essentially have to look at your entire chart to understand why you don’t necessarily resonate with the common interpretations of certain placements.

People who have the ruler of their descendent making an opposition, square, or conjunction to Neptune can often find themselves in relationships that are co-dependent or disappointing in some way. In some instances the relationship may even be one sided as individuals with this aspect can often struggle to see their romantic partners clearly.

A solar return year when you have your solar return Mars in the 1st or 6th house can be a year where you lose a significant amount of weight. However, always look at the aspects that Mars is making to confirm if this is likely to apply to you. If Mars makes a conjunction to Jupiter this may not be the case.

It’s always good to look at the first meeting chart alongside the synastry & composite chart with a potential romantic partner. I have found that the 1st meeting chart can tell us a lot about the purpose and the potential outcomes of the relationship between two people. For those who don’t know how to find this chart, you will need to input the exact date, time, and place that you met a specific person. It should not be confused with the composite chart as it is it’s own chart.

People with their South Node in the 12th house can often rely on spirituality, astrology, psychic readings to help guide them on their life path. Although this doesn’t always have to be a negative thing (when it’s done in moderation) , the North Node in the 6th house contends that individuals with this placement need to work on becoming more rooted in reality. Hence, excessive reliance on the esoteric, substances, or isolation are all things south node in the 12th house natives will need to overcome in order to attain their North Node.

Couples with a Composite Mars in the 4th house can actually move in together very quickly. This is especially true if it is the ruler of the composite ascendant.

[letters-to-lgbt-kids]

My dear lgbt+ kids, 

This is not a guideline on how to come out. I can’t write that for you - and in fact, I don’t think anyone can. 

That’s because „Coming out“ is not one specific thing but covers a wide range of social situations. Coming out to your best friend will be a different deal than coming out to your parents, and both of that is completely different from coming out at work. Coming out to someone who is vocal about being an ally or is even queer themselves will be a different story than coming out to someone who is deeply conservative. And so on! 

On top of that, coming out is such an incredibly personal path. Something that helps one person feel more confident could actually make it worse for another. A script that works well for one person could feel uncomfortable and awkward for another. A reaction that makes one person go „Wow, this coming out went well“ could hurt another. And… you get the picture, there are too many variables to write you a step by step guide. 

But a step by step guide is something that’s quite commonly requested. Understandably so! Deciding to come out - to anyone, in any circumstances - is always a big step, and every big step like that naturally comes with some uncertainty and fear. It’s normal to want some support. 

So, what I can do for you, is to give you some questions to think about. Importantly, there aren’t right or wrong, good or bad answers to any of them. There are just individual answers. This isn’t meant to be a test on coming out that you can fail or pass - these are just a bunch of potential things you may want to consider when deciding on how to come out in a way that feels safe, comfortable and fitting for you. 

Some considerations, in no particular order: 

How would a bad reaction look like? Would you be in any (physical or mental) danger and if so, which safety precautions can you take to bring yourself to safety quickly if things go south? 

Are you dependent on the person in any way (money, housing, caretaking etc.)? Do you need to take that into consideration re: safety measures? 

If the worst possible reaction wouldn’t be acutely dangerous but emotionally painful/distressing/embarrassing/frustrating: how would you deal with these feelings if they arise? How could you calm yourself down afterwards? 

How familiar are they with lgbt+ themes and terminology? How much explanation, if any, will they need? Would it be more helpful to provide the explanations right away or to wait which questions they ask? 

If there are multiple people you plan to come out to who belong to the same group (such as „parents and siblings“ or „boss and coworkers“), do you want to come out to everyone at once or to each person individually? 

If you want to come out to each person individually, is there a risk that the first one(s) will out you to the others before you get to come out to them? How would you handle that situation? 

If you want to come out in person: Would it help to write down exactly what you want to say beforehand? Or write down just a few keywords? Or does it feel more natural to keep it completely spontaneous? 

If you want to come out in a letter, text etc.: do you need to consider the possibility that something written could be shared around? 

Is there a definite next step you want the person to take (like calling you by a new name, meeting your partner for the first time etc.)? If so, do you want to bring that up right away or in a second conversation? 

If you’re (romantically or queerplatonically) interested in this person, do you want to bring that up right away or gauge their reaction first? How would you handle a rejection? 

Are there any specific things you do not want to share with them (you do not want to talk about your sex life, you do not want to disclose if you had bottom surgery etc.)? How would you handle it if they bring these things up? 

Do you need to keep any upcoming plans in mind regarding timing (either in your or their life)? Are there any times they’re especially likely to be in a good or bad mood? 

Do you want to do it alone or with someone supportive (a friend, your partner etc.) by your side? If the latter, do you want them to take on an active role (helping to explain etc.) or just be there as silent support? 

How will you celebrate yourself afterwards (no matter how it went)? How will you reward yourself for taking this brave step? 

With all my love, 

Your Tumblr Dad 

[aziraphales-library]

Hiii

Thank you for all of the work everyone has done for this library! It's truly a gift to the fandom and fanfic readers.

I have read almost everything on here regarding to Human AUs, and was wondering if you could recommend more? I really enjoyed Mon Horrible Chéri and Postcards from Paris by ghostrat, also Don’t be late by Ina_Sirena. The jobs don’t have be the same, but general meet cute vibes and fluffiness, slow burn would be a nice bonus!

Thank you again! Have a nice day~

Hey. Here are some fics to add to our #human au, #meet cute, #fluff, and #slow burn tags...

Rainbow Connection by Dragonfire42, QueenOfTheCute (T)

Need some fluff today? Have some fluff! (Btw, puppets are made of fluff!) Aziraphale/Crowley - as PUPPETEERS! “'What’s the show about?” Crowley asked. “Well, it’s about two friends, Mark and Book, who have opposite personalities and live in a magic library and go on story time adventures to teach kids to love reading. Together, they are BookMark. Get it?” Coming from anyone else, Crowley would have found the pitch cheesy. But coming from this kind and fluffy haired puppeteer, he couldn’t help but find it endearing..." This is my first AU human Good Omens story. And in real life, I'm a puppeteer (you can see some of my puppets here @dorkpixie on Instagram and TikTok) - and I'm over the moon excited to use all my random knowledge in writing this! Written for the Good Omens Theatre Bang, inspired by the art by Queen of the Cute (@queenofthecute on Tumblr). Special thank you to @fifthstiel for beta-reading! (Also each chapter title and intro will include a quote from a Muppet song, and I'll link the music video at the end, because everyone's day would be better with a Muppet singing in it!)

So Much Wine, Merry Christmas by DumbGayVampires (T)

In the aptly named South Downs village of Heaven, population 2,222, there is a bookshop. This bookshop, A.Z. Fell and Co., sits proudly on the corner of Main Street and Angel Avenue, and is almost always closed. But if you know who to talk to and what to look for, you may be able to get a special appointment with the man in charge, the eccentric Aziraphale. He’s always dressed like it’s 1949 and good fortune seems to smile upon those who cross his path. His strange ways have made him something of a town celebrity. Rumours swirl about him, is he a time traveller? Is the bookshop a front for something much more insidious? The mystery of Aziraphale has haunted the people of the South Downs for decades. But every year, on Christmas day, the enigma opens wide the doors to his shop and lets visitors take whatever they want, for free. Or at least, that’s what Crowley read in his brief about the man, 60 miles away from his office in London. ----- Aziraphale is an independent book seller, Crowley works for a chain trying to buy his shop, miscommunication and Hallmark movie shenanigans ensue

Trivia Night: A Love Story by MissUnderstoodLyrics (E)

No angst, all fluff and fluffy smut! Crowley just moved to the States and has already been roped into the pub trivia competition for all of the King Street businesses, which they take very seriously. He just wants to work and go home to his cat and his plants, but the promise of free drinks lures him to the first game, where he meets a gorgeous, witty, mischievous angel, and suddenly trivia night doesn't seem quite so bad.

Finding Love in All the Right Places by Mizmak (M)

Aziraphale adores his quiet village life, which is suddenly threatened by the Archer Corporation’s massive luxury resort plan. When their landscape architect, Anthony Crowley, turns up looking for a local guide, Aziraphale agrees to assist the “enemy” as a spy—hoping to thwart him. But it turns out that stopping the destruction of his ideal home might succeed if he and Crowley work together. And Aziraphale might find the love he’s been yearning for along the way.

The Tryst Before Christmas by pilatesandpinot (E)

Best-selling author and audiobook narrator Anthony J. Crowley is determined to not become a one-trilogy wonder. In order to overcome a stubborn stint of writer’s block, he and his loyal agent Muriel pack their bags and head to the seaside town of Tadfield. He hopes that the rolling hills, salt cliffs, his quirky neighbors, and those South Downs vibes will help him find the inspiration he needs. In fact, he might even audition for the town’s production of “A Christmas Carol”. What he doesn’t expect is to act alongside Aziraphale Fell, his neighbor and owner of the bookshop who seems to turn his nose at Crowley and his shenanigans.

Growing on Me by Hermiola (M)

Anthony J. Crowley isn’t up to much these days. In fact, you could almost say his days as a rockstar are pretty much behind him. Rotting in bed all day, with half-written songs plaguing him and no lyrics to speak of, everything points to his career being over for good. That is until Maggie, his manager, claims to have found him the perfect lyricist to get him out of his slump. And what better way to get the creative juices flowing than spending a whole month together in a secluded cottage on the Isle of Skye? Provided Crowley’s attempts at making the man run for the hills aren’t successful… * “You wrote these lyrics,” Crowley repeated just to make sure he’d understood correctly. “The lyrics about sucking dick. You wrote them.” The stranger wrinkled his nose, a blush appearing on his rounded cheeks. “Well, it’s actually meant to be an exploration of taste and touch as a way to connect with another person, as well as a metaphor for–” “Sucking dick,” Crowley completed for him. “Mmh,” the man hummed noncommittally, lips pursed in both annoyance and embarrassment.

- Mod D

[hcneymooners]

hello, hello.

i've been debating making this post, but i’ve been thinking a lot about how my work often references God, religion, faith in general, and all the things in between. as someone raised in both the south and caribbean culture, i thought maybe this could be helpful for others trying to navigate queerness and religion—especially the mess and clarity that come with deconstruction.

note: this isn’t meant to tell anyone how to feel about faith or how to navigate their own path—this is just what’s been true for me. if it helps even one person feel a little less alone or a little more seen, then that’s enough. read with grace, take what you need, and leave the rest behind.

for a long time, i aimed to be good. good at school. good to people even when it meant letting them take advantage of me. i convinced myself that as long as i was pure, i would be okay. that it was that simple, and that somehow, i’d figured it out before anyone else. but i didn’t account for anger. or desire. or being a lesbian. what did lana say in that one song? “we had a deal and i fucked it up when / i made the decision to become someone.” so here's a little of my survival guide. for context, i was raised roman catholic.

first comes the work of reshaping the imagery. i released the God of my childhood and awakened the God of my womanhood. i began to replace “him” with “her,” then “Him” with “Her.” i already know some might see that as blasphemous, but it made praying easier which was something i wasn’t ready to lose. the universe is God to me. the universe is love, and so is God, and so i trust Her. She is Him, and He is Her. the universe, to me, can also be a woman who has big eyes and a dark face and makes me feel like i might be staring into myself. it’s easier to come back to God when i picture it differently. when i strip the man to the bone and rebuild into the woman i see, it’s so much easier to pray. she feels like my mother.

"offline or online, i am still connected." i think that’s how i feel about faith; i’m still connected to believing in something. it’s just that what i believe has changed and expanded. it doesn’t harm me. it helps me return to myself and shows me the way home. it’s easier to pray to Mary when i’m scared on a plane, to tell her that i know i’ll make it through because she wouldn’t place me in something i could not get through.

an altar can be anywhere. i used to feel guilty about not having a bible verse in my bio or the bible app on my phone. but i don’t need those things to make my prayer real. you don’t either. your love will pour out and stain the feet of the God before you, and They will wipe your mouth. They will understand that it’s prayer.

physicality. this was important to me when i was unpacking the feeling of being wrong or impure. if the universe condensed into one person, i’d ask her to lie down with me. we’d be pressed knee to knee and leg to leg. i’d think of her hips on top of mine, wide and inviting like the moon. i guess we are naked if i take a step back, but it’s not at all sexual. it’s just the understanding that she is holding me. babying me. and i’ve always wanted someone to. i will feel her touch me, and i’ll try to say thank you, because gratitude has been engraved in me. my mouth will move and nothing will come out, but she'll hear me.

the talking can be constant if you need it to be. i’m always speaking to God, about God, my understanding of it. it’s not organized. i haven’t constructed anything bigger than myself. restructuring kind of feels like waking up tangled in a spider’s web and standing carefully, your feet sticky as you navigate the threads. i took care not to break some of them but snapped others, creating space for new weaving. God becomes synonymous with the world, and you will find faith everywhere.

others may judge, but stick to what works for you.

another realization: it never really leaves you, and that’s fine. it’s also fine if you want to hold on.

sometimes faith blends. i work with water and have my crystals, listen to protection frequencies, and still buy my virgin Mary candle in all of its pink and radiant glory to light in the bathroom. i pray every time i board a plane, after a nightmare, or whenever a wave of unease hits. each time, it’s a Hail Mary.

also: resources. my God, find people who interpret with grace. below are some of my favorite blogs.

has content about faith: @ginwhitlock, @boykeats, @ohholydyke, ethel cain when she was active and i'm being so serious. has content that has made me see the world differently & renew faith in myself: @podencos @watermotif @cocainejuul @kristina100000 @eatpussypraylove @chloeinletters @anxeious

most importantly, i’m taking your hand until you can hold your own. i’m looking at you, because i really mean this: there is nothing wrong with you. you were nine. or thirteen. or fifteen. or twenty-one. or twenty-three. or. i’m saying it because i’d have given anything to hear that back then.

it would’ve been Heaven to me.

if you want to reach out, my inbox and messages are always open.

love you.

allyson. x

[botanicalsword]

How to interpret the Composite/Davison Chart

>> Guide on how to interpret the Composite/Davison Chart >> Relationship • Dynamics and challenges ♡ Composite Chart >> Relationship ☽ Observations on Composite Chart / Davison Chart

Begin by focusing on:

Inner planets ( Sun / Moon / Mercury / Venus / Jupiter / Saturn )

ASC & MC (ASC - Represents the primary attitude towards each other, first impressions / MC - Represents the worldly aspects of the relationship, such as how others view the relationship, goals pursued within the relationship, etc.)

Stellium ( House / Signs ) 

Outer planets ( Jupiter / Saturn / Uranus / Neptune / Pluto ) 

Asteroids ( Juno / Chiron / Lilith ) - commitment, healing and wounds, and raw, primal energies.

Lunar Nodes ( North nodes / South Nodes ) - the path forward / past patterns

Interpretation of Planets:

Houses & Aspects - Focus on key areas within the relationship, combining planetary qualities and aspects

Signs - Look at the traits and interaction patterns, dynamics and flow of energy within the relationship, indicating harmony, tension, or potential.

>> Relationship ✧ The focus of your connection • Composite Chart

Sun - the overarching environment of the relationship, the male partner's willpower and energy, the foundational aspects and primary objectives of the relationship, and its future direction

Moon - the female partner in the relationship, the emotional and inner feelings of both partners, emotional expression traits

Mercury - the communication style and patterns between the two people, as well as the areas where they tend to think more deeply

Venus - the love between the two people, the ways they express affection, their shared values, aesthetics, and the female partner. 

Mars - the drive and action dynamics within the relationship (especially from the male partner), temperament, sexual energy, and how conflicts are handled and resolved

Jupiter - areas where the connection can grow together, experience joy, and feel fulfilled

Saturn - areas where the relationship may face challenges, pressure, or limitations in their interactions

Uranus - sudden changes or instability within the relationship, or a tendency to challenge traditional norms

Neptune - potential areas of deception, lies, illusions, infatuation, dissatisfaction, or misunderstandings within the relationship

Pluto - areas where significant changes or conflicts may arise, leading to transformation within the relationship, which can result in either positive or negative outcomes.

>> Love / Relationship astrological insights >> Relationship ✧ (Part III) ✧ What are your criteria for choosing a partner? >> Relationship ✧ (Part II) ✧ What are your criteria for choosing a partner? >> Relationship ✧ (Part I) ✧ What are your criteria for choosing a partner?  >> Relationship ✧ Why Is It Difficult for You to Fall in Love? (Part 1)

>> Back to Masterlist ✧ Explicit Content

Quick Access to : ❥ Astro / Asteroid Indicators ❥ Synastry / Composite Chart Observations ❥ House Stellium Observations ❥ Astro basic info / Brief reads ❥ Asteroid database ❥ Personal studies ✧ spiritual journal

Exclusive access : Patreon

/ instagram : @le.sinex / @botanicalsword

[lambtotheslaughterr]

pure//violence

a Rafe Cameron series

Chapter One -- YOUNG GOD

THIS STORY WILL CONTAIN THEMES OF NON/CON & DUB/CON, MENTAL/EMOTIONAL/PHYSICAL ABUSE. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED. MINORS DNFI. 18+.

WC: 3.8k

Dividers provided by @firefly-graphics

MASTERLIST | CHAPTER TWO

all AI images are created based off prompts i wrote, they are not real images

“He will oppose and exalt himself over everything that is called God or is worshipped, so that he sets himself up in God’s temple, proclaiming himself to be God.”

2 Thessalonians 2:4

            You’ll never remember the day you were born, but you’ll always remember the day you nearly died. You always knew that something greater, something purely made up of goodness & peace would be on the other side, but you never knew if the moments leading to it would be of contentment or violence. They were rather morbid thoughts, you knew that much, but they were thoughts that often kept you awake at night. Yet, they were not thoughts that scared you. You had never feared death simply because you knew where you would be going. Heaven, paradise, the great beyond, whatever the name for it was, you knew it was waiting for you. So you needn’t be scared.

            But it wasn’t the same for you mother. She had been young, you had only been a baby—not even a year old—when a man made up of pure evil murdered her one night. She had been working the night shift at the hospital & was exhausted, she never knew someone was watching her. She had never seen her attacker coming. He snuck up behind her, stuck a knife into her spine, & ran off with her purse. Despite being in the parking lot of a hospital, your mother had bled out before anyone found her. Here one moment, gone the next. She died a violent death. You prayed you wouldn’t experience the same.

            Fortunately, your father had always been gracious in protecting you. He put you in the best schools, raised you in the safest neighborhoods, kept good company, & always had your best interests at heart. It’s why you trusted him to guide you. He may have been the well-loved & highly respected reverend that he was, but more so, he was your guardian angel. It’s why instead of going to college immediately upon graduating high school, you made the decision to move with him to a new town in the south. You decided you would take a year off, live a year for yourself before you dedicated the rest of your life to whichever path was laid out before you. Your father had urged you to go to school, but trusted you to make the right decisions for yourself.

            And that’s how you found yourself in a small, island town called Kildare. It was a Friday, & you had only moved to the town yesterday. Your father paid for movers to get the house set up before your arrival, but you insisted on setting up your own room. After you decorated your room & unpacked your clothes, you opened up the only window in your room to let in the east coast breeze. You had been to the beach very few times in your life, but you were excited to explore the island. It had been saddening leaving your friends back in your hometown, but a majority of them were going off to college or traveling the world, so you figured this would be a new chapter in your life.

            “_____!” You heard your father calling your name from downstairs. You slipped off your bed & entered the hallway, glancing over the banister to spot your father at the bottom of the stairs.

            “I’m going to head to the church & get some work done there for my first service on Sunday, would you like to come with?”

            You smiled & nodded, “Let me get my sandals.”

            With that, you quickly slipped into your sandals before checking your outfit once in the mirror before grabbing your phone.

            The drive to the church was quick. It was telling to you how small the town was with how easy it was to get around. Getting out of your dad’s car, you peered at the church from the rear side. The front entrance was on the beach & you grinned at how beautiful the tiny church was. You had spent your entire life within the walls of the church & you had never known a safer place to be.

            You had heard all the insults & jeers to go along with it, but you brushed most of it off. You knew what it was like to be the reverend’s daughter, to be picked on or made fun of because of it. But you never felt the need to defend your lifestyle. People would find anything to be angry about, & a lot of people were angry with God. That wasn’t your fault. Of course, you knew a lot of people did not have the experience with faith that you had, & you were empathetic to those people, but you had always considered yourself fortunate for having a positive upbringing under His love.

            Your father slung his arm over your shoulders as he eyed the church with you, “She’s a beauty, isn’t she?”

            “Truly.” You replied.

            You were eager to see the inside. The church your dad had worked at previously was much older & had a lot more character & history to it. The church before you was still young-looking, but you knew it would be just as beautiful on the inside as it was on the outside. Once you stepped inside, you were relieved your instinct was correct. The interior of the church was indeed stunning.

            The ceilings were high, the walls painted white with the North Carolina sun beaming in. It was much larger on the inside than it looked from the outside but still much smaller than the one you grew up in. You knew then that the congregation for this church must be less than 100 people. It was only slightly worrisome, being surrounded by a smaller group of believers, but you were looking forward to meeting new people & making new friends, nonetheless.

            Your father got to work right away, reciting passages from his bible as he stood at the lectern. It was a comforting pastime, listening to him practice his sermon’s while you did your homework or read along with him in your own bible—which also happened to be your late mother’s. But now with no homework & your bible left on your bedside table, you simply walked around the church, admiring the different views from the windows. For the next thirty minutes, you explored the church & all of it’s hidden secrets. In the private backrooms, you found what would be your father’s office, a picture of your mother already on his desk. You gently fingered all of the books on his shelves & smiled when coming across one of his Sudoku books.

            After getting your fill of the new church, you returned to the main room. Your father was deep into his practice when you gently tapped him on the shoulder.

            “I’m going to go for a walk.” You told him, “Explore Kildare.”

            “Okay, sweetheart.” He grinned at you, his eye-glasses placed near the end of his nose, “You have your phone?”

            “’Course.” You tapped your jean pocket.

            “When I finish here I will come pick you up.”

            “Okay.” You agreed, raising onto your toes to give him a kiss on his cheek, “Have fun.”

            Exiting the church, you continued forward onto the beach. You slipped out of your sandals & kept them dangling from your curled fingers.

            The ocean breeze was refreshing. It was early July & you were impressed at how hot it wasn’t. The sun felt good on your skin & you enjoyed the taste of saltwater on your lips. You took your time walking along the shore, your eyes cast out over the ocean the whole time. It had been a little after four in the afternoon when you left the church. You knew your father wouldn’t be done until about six, so you had a couple hours to yourself.

            Your feet were soaked up to your ankles & you wiggled your toes in the sand. A few others walked nearby: an elderly couple holding hands, a mother & her young son flying a kite, a few girls around your age lying on beach towels. Honestly, you had expected more activity on such a beautiful day on a beautiful beach, but you supposed it was a small town. Perhaps there were more important matters for the residents of Kildare.

            As five ‘o’clock rolled around, you felt your stomach growl. You regretfully began walking away from the beach towards a boardwalk in the distance. You were unsure of how far you walked from your father’s church, but you knew it couldn’t have been too far. Once at the boardwalk, you put your sandals back on & window-shopped. A lot of boutiques & small bakery shops lined the boardwalk. A few vendors had booths open selling items from seashells to books to jewelry. You were relieved you had some cash on you, deciding to buy a small seashell that was the perfect blend of white & blue. It would be a gift for your mother. You’d place it near her urn that your father kept in the living room & welcome her to Kildare.

            After making small-talk with a few of the locals, you finally spotted a small diner. It’s name was SaltWater & the name alone reminded you of how hungry you were. Heading towards the diner, you entered & quickly found a small booth in the corner meant for two people. The interior of the diner was quaint & fitting of a town like Kildare. There was very few patrons inside so the only waitress that appeared to be on shift was quick to greet you.

            “Evening, darlin’.” She was older, perhaps in her 50’s & had a thick southern accent. It was different but exciting.

            “What can I get started for ya?”

            You hadn’t even looked at the menu yet but felt safe ordering an ordinary cheeseburger with fries & a shake.

            She swiftly turned away with a wink & disappeared behind the counter. You inhaled sharply & glanced out the window. It was still bright out & you watched as locals & tourists alike walked along the boardwalk & bought items for themselves or loved ones. You hoped to come to the boardwalk again but with your father, & maybe after some time, a group of friends.

            With the diner being so slow, your food was quick to arrive. You thanked the waitress but not before she made a comment about you being a face she didn’t recognize.

            “You new, huh, sweetheart.” She stated.

            “Yeah.” You smiled, taking a single bite of one of the fries. Salty indeed.

            “I can tell. Tourists have a look to ‘em. Not you, though.” She teased.

            “I hope that’s a good thing?” You returned, biting your lip anxiously.

            “It is, honey, it is. Tourists ‘round here only bring more problems for us locals. Kids your age get into a lot of trouble this time of year. Kooks & tourists, the worst combo.”

            “Kooks?” You questioned.

            But before she could respond, a bell dinged from the kitchen.

            “’scuse me, darlin’. Enjoy your meal, it’s on me tonight.”

            “Oh, no, really—” But she had already walked away.

            You were grateful for her kindness & it made your cheeseburger taste that much better. The shake you ordered was strawberry & you often dipped your fries into it, enjoying the salty & sweet combination.

            You didn’t see much of your waitress after your meal. Another girl had come into work & she was closer to your age. She had long blonde hair & bright eyes. But despite how angelic she appeared, you observed a cloud cast over her. She often kept her head down & avoided meeting the eyes of others.

            She stopped by to check on you & you ordered another shake, strawberry again. She jotted it down before moving behind the counter. You pulled out your phone & checked the time, it was a quarter to six. You imagined your father would be finishing up soon so you planned on ordering him a burger to go.

            A moment later, the young waitress returned with your shake. You thanked her & were about to ask her to put in a to go order when another door at the other end of the diner slammed open.

            A group of rowdy boys piled into the compact diner, their voices loud & boisterous as they all clambered into the closest booth. There were so many of them that they took up two booths. But what you noticed most of all was how your waitress responded to their arrival.

            She rolled her eyes & sighed, speaking quietly to herself, “Great. Here we go.”

            Before you could place your order, she moved behind the counter once more. You watched as she cast an annoyed glance at the group of boys. You wondered if this is what your waitress from earlier had been referring to. Were these the tourists that caused problems?

            Your gaze landed on the group of boys. They were all talking over one another or shoving each other off their seats. There was no one else in the diner except for you, the waitress, the group of boys, & you assumed a cook or two in the back.

            “Jordaaaaan!” A voice called then & it came from one of the boys in the group.

            “Oh, Jordaaaaan! C’mon, baby, we’re starving over here.”

            Your eyes flashed to blonde behind the counter as she ignored the boys. Then one of them moved out of the booth & towards the counter. He slapped his hand on the flat surface then whistled, “Hello, earth to Jordan, we’d like some service.”

            “I’ll be there in a second, Rafe, please.” The waitress, who you knew now was Jordan, glanced at him over her shoulder.

            The young man rolled his eyes & made a face at his group of friends whom all laughed raucously.

            “If you have time for your ‘Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ’”, the man air quoted with his fingers, “you have time for the people who are actually real & here & h u n g r y.”

            Jordan shook her head but finally exited the counter to approach the group of boys, avoiding the young man at the counter as she moved around him.

            “What can I get started for you?” Her voice was soft, tired, but you still managed to hear it.

            Then all at once, every single boy began ordering. You could see the annoyance on Jordan’s face as she didn’t even bother writing anything down.

            It was burger this, burger that, fries galore, multiple shakes in different flavors, demands for extra napkins & complaints about empty ketchup bottles. You felt your skin crawl noticing her discomfort. But then the man who stood at the counter stepped up behind her & placed his hands on her shoulders & jostled her as if she was a child, “Don’t fuck up our order again, Jordan.”

            You reacted before you could even think about it. Standing up, you approached the group of boys giving your waitress a hard time & you tried to catch her eyes. Once you had, she peered at you wide-eyed.

            “Are you okay?” You questioned, ignoring the numerous glares that were suddenly being cast towards you.

            A scoff came from the man who still had his hands on Jordan’s shoulders once he spotted you, “She’s fine.”

            You ignored his input, never dropping your eyes from Jordan’s, “Do you need some help?”

            “Uh—”

            “Hey!” Another young man sitting down yelled out, “Wait your turn!”

            Jordan lowered her eyes once more before shuffling out from under the young man’s hands, “Your order will be right out.”

            Her voice was small & she quickly found solace behind the counter. You moved to follow after her, keep yourself between her & them, but just as you moved, a firm grasp gripped your wrist & halted you. You spun around & glared down at the hand that held you up. Following the length of the hand it led you to a tanned arm up to the face of the young man who was leading the unnecessary harassment.

            “Mind your business.” His blue eyes glared into yours.

            You ripped your arm out of his grip, “No.”

            With that, you closed the distance between where you stood & the counter where Jordan remained, punching in an order into a POS system.

            “Hey.” You greeted softly, your eyes meeting hers.

            She glanced at you once before returning her gaze to the screen, “I’ll be with you in a minute.”

            “I can kick them out if you want.” You offered, not fearful of the boys behind you.

            Jordan gave a short laugh, unimpressed with your offer, “It’ll take the entire US armed forces to get rid of them.”

            “What about the cooks?” You gestured with your chin to the window that peered into the kitchen.

            “Too high or drunk or don’t care.” She responded bitterly, “Look, thanks for your help, but I’ll be fine. I can handle them.”

            “But—”

            “You heard her.” A voice suddenly sounded to your right followed by an unwelcome arm slinging over your shoulder, “She can handle us.”

            “Ugh.” You shrugged the young man’s arm off, “Do not touch me. And don’t touch her, either.”

            The man laughed & at this angle with him being quite taller than you & closer to the artificial lights embedded in the ceiling, you could see how red his eyes were.

            Oh. So that explains it. He’s one of those types.

            “What’s your problem, sweetheart?” He finally cast his eyes down on you, “This has nothing to do with you.”

            “You’re my problem.” You replied firmly before glancing at the group of boys watching in awe behind him, “All of you are. How embarrassing & sad it is to come in here & harass her. Have you nothing better to do? Are your lives really that boring?”

            Your eyes met the young man’s once again though this time he didn’t look as jovial as he had a moment ago, “Are your souls that empty?”

            The man’s eyes fell to your neck then, his gaze narrowing. Then, before you could stop him, he reached forward & yanked on the necklace around your neck, snapping it off as if it was cheap metal (it wasn’t).

            “Ha, well looky here, boys. We got another bible thumper in the midst.” The young man held up your necklace. It was a small golden heart pendant with ’God’ engraved on it.

            “See, Jordan?” He held your necklace out of reach as you attempted to get it back, “Guess you’re not entirely alone. Another Jesus freak to keep you company.”

            “Quit it!” You demanded, finally getting a hold of your necklace & ripping it out of his grasp.

            “And get out!” You pointed to the door, “Seriously! Leave her alone, don’t come back here, & maybe find something decent inside yourselves.”

            The boys behind him erupted into laughter at your response. The young man leaned against the counter, resting on his elbow as his eyes danced from you to Jordan, “Alright, fine. We’ll leave. But we’ll be back.”

            He caught Jordan’s gaze, “Won’t we?”

            “Go.” You repeated.

            His eyes met yours once more & he laughed harshly before taking a step back, throwing his hands up together to mock praying, “Tell your God to forgive me, sister.”

            The boys guffawed with roars of laughter.

            One by one they slowly filed out, & you were relieved when the door finally slammed shut behind them.

            “Geez, who were those guys?” You questioned out loud, not really expecting an answer.

            “Kildare’s finest.” Jordan responded dryly, “Thanks, though. If you hadn’t said anything they would have been in here all night making a mess of the place.”

            “They’re locals?” The possibility horrified you.

            “They’re more than that. They’re the money of Kildare. Born & raised with silver spoons shoved up their… well, you know.”

            You shook your head in disbelief, “I try to feel sorry for people like that but in this case, I can’t fathom it.”

            “Believe me, Rafe Cameron is the last person on this island you should feel sorry for.”

            “He the ring-leader?” You asked.

            “Yup.” She nodded, “What’s ironically funny about him though is that he’s been picking on me since high school, ya know, for my beliefs. But then parades around town with his pack of wolves as if he’s a god himself. Just funny.”

            “Mmm.” You frowned, not liking Rafe Cameron whatsoever the more you learned about him.

            “I’m Jordan, by the way.” Jordan smiled, a real smile.

            “_____.” You returned, offering your hand for her to shake.

            “Oh!” Her eyes lit up for the first time since you entered the diner, “You’re the new reverend’s daughter.”

            “Yeah.” You grinned proudly.

            “I’ve watched a couple of his sermon’s on YouTube, he knows what he’s talking about.” She commented.

            “Yes, he does.” If there was only one thing you could be proud of in life it would be your father.

            “That’s so cool. I had heard he moved here with his daughter, but I don’t know, guess I thought you’d be younger.”

            “18.” You replied, “Turn 19 in November.”

            “I turn 19 in December!” Jordan squealed with excitement.

            The two of you shared a laugh before your phone started ringing. You pulled it out & it was your dad.

            “Sorry, my dad.”

            “Oh, wow, I can’t wait to meet him.” She admitted.

            “Are you a member of the church he’s working out of?”

            “Yup.” Jordan smiled brightly, “It’ll be a nice change, the last reverend… well, he had some scandals under his robes.”

            You had heard of them but didn’t like thinking about it too often.

            You shot your dad a quick text as to where you were at & he responded with saying he’d be there in 10 minutes.

            “Well, my dad is on his way to get me. Can we give you a ride home?”

            Jordan clicked her tongue, “Shift just started, sadly.”

            “Oh, right.” You recalled her showing up not long ago.

            “But maybe we can trade numbers & hangout sometimes. I don’t have a lot of friends here.”

            The confession disheartened you.

            “I’d love to.”

            The two of you traded numbers & made plans to hang out after church in two days. Your dad arrived shortly after & you waved goodbye to Jordan. On the drive home, you considered your first day in Kildare a success. You had explored, made friendly with a few locals, connected with Jordan, & practically spat in the face of a young wannabe god. All in all, you had nothing to complain about, but you were certain that before you went to bed tonight, you would pray for a happy, fulfilling year, a life-long friendship with Jordan, & for that lost & damaged soul whose blue eyes left you feeling almost sorry for them.

helllooo friends.

this is chapter one of what is going to be a very long, very extensive series featuring rafe cameron. it will be told in dual POV's (reader & rafe's), so the series will be ongoing for quite some time.

that being said, i am very excited to write this series & share it with you all.

as always, please share your thoughts with me via dropping a comment, reblogging with reviews, or talking to me in my inbox.

thank you all for your patience as this story unfolds as it will likely be 40 chapters considering half of it is told from rafe's pov.

love you all!

oona<3

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taglist: @jsrafesgirl @bunnycvnts @namelesslosers @wearemadeofstardust0

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[imagineastrology]

Using Astrology For Confidence: Part Two of my Confidence Series! 

- This post will focus on insights for long-term confidence: Look at your North Node House and Sign for this post.  - Part 3 will be for implementing confidence: Look at your Mars and House placement. Coming soon!

The North Node (and South Node) are nodal mathematical axis’ in your Natal Chart. The North and South Node work closely together in tandem, and you can’t really talk about one without the other. 

The North Node is where your soul wants to go, experience and learn. It is important in your Natal Chart as it provides you direction with laser precision, and can help you to define your destiny. You could see this as your ‘North Star’, helping to guide you to what your innermost desires are, and where your soul feels alive.

As the South Node is where your soul comes from, the North Node can feel scary as it is uncharted territories, it encompasses what your soul has not experienced yet. 

From this, the South Node can describe your past experiences, where your soul comes from, what you’re experienced and adept at, and what you have mastered across multiple lifetimes you have been here on earth. The nodes also represent personal karma. 

Learning about your North Node can be useful as it allows us to identify, be aware of and change any habits that are not on the path to our North Node placement. Below, each of the placements can reveal a unique path (that you may already feel deep inside you). 

Remember to look at your sign, house and any aspect to your north node to get a more well-rounded insight. 

🌟 North Node in Aries/1st House: This placement urges you to develop self-confidence and assertiveness. It is about stepping out into the world, embracing what and who you are - not what others have told you. You define your relationship with the world, and you are in charge. In terms of long-term confidence - fake it till you make it. You have to understand that no one is above you, and you deserve to feel confident, easily express yourself without fear or judgement, and to ultimately, become selfish in this lifetime. Not to an extreme - but in this lifetime your focus is on what YOU enjoy, love, trust, dislike. It is about building up your inner-voice. What is worthy enough to be in your life? North node in 1st House demands that you accept and celebrate your uniqueness - this is not a lifetime to be shy! 

Affirmation: "I am confident in my soul that I know it is safe for me to express myself."​

💰 North Node in Taurus/2nd House: You are entitled to make a secure, wealthy and worthy environment. With this North Node, you are encouraged to feel okay and deserving of money - and that money can bring you freedom is you choose to be wise with it.

Affirmation: "I honour my values and build a life of stability and self-worth."​

🗣️ North Node in Gemini/3rd House: As the South Node was in the ninth house in your past life (or lives), this placement is here to give you the confidence in being able to trust your inner guidance as to what you want to do with your livelihood. Visualize you communicating your desires and needs compellingly - leaving no room for doubt. 

Affirmation: "I express myself with clarity and am able to communicate my feelings effectively.”

🏠 North Node in Cancer/4th House: There is a focus here on self-nuturing and honouring your inner child. In previous lifetimes, you may have felt chained to societal pressures of success and felt the accolades and status given to you by others gave you. But this lifetime, you are called to what you feel you need - and that is safety and nurture, creating a cozy home - internally and externally. There may also be a grand desire to have your ideal family - whether they’re blood related or not - you desire your tribe in this lifetime. You want to build and create a home you may never have had. Themes around nurture, learning about your roots or culture may greatly fulfil you. 

Affirmation: "I find strength in my emotional depth and create a sanctuary of peace."​

🎨 North Node in Leo/5th House: In this lifetime, you are here to express yourself - without listening to other people’s opinions. Your 11th House South Node can reveal to you that much of your energy and time was spent blending into a group setting, and focusing on the group’s needs and wishes. However, you have permission now to create and express what YOU want to express. 

Affirmation: "I celebrate my creativity and share my unique gifts with the world."​

🛠️ North Node in Virgo/6th House: There is power in the seemingly mundane, everyday parts of life. Finding a daily routine will serve you well for the future. With your South Node in the 12th House, you may have felt quite isolated in previous lifetimes, or alone in your ideas, thoughts and art. You are here now to find joy in everyday life, make peace with the present moment, and to truly master mindfulness. 

Affirmation: "I dedicate myself to growth, and to serve myself and others with compassion and efficiency."

🤝 North Node in Libra/7th House: In this lifetime, there is a focus on the blessings that your close relationships can bring you. Themes of collaboration and mutual respect will give you long-term confidence to know that you are not alone in this life, and that others can help you if you decide to open your heart to it. 

Affirmation: "I foster harmonious connections and grow through shared experiences."​

🔮 North Node in Scorpio/8th House: Your long-term confidence will be intertwined with your ability to become comfortable with change, transformation, and deep-emotional bonds. Change is inevitable, and once you realise that all you need is inside you, the external world will not affect you as it once did.

Affirmation: "I welcome transformation and trust in the power of deep connections."​

🌍 North Node in Sagittarius/9th House: Being curious, especially in areas relating to higher-education, spiritual, emotional and physical travel will allow you to be sturdy in your confidence as you begin to understand the world through a different lens. Learning about various perspectives, cultures and theories allows you to make informed decisions and give you the long-term confidence to realise that you are capable enough to make your own. 

Affirmation: "I explore new perspectives with open-minded curiosity and grow through being an eternal student of life."

🏆 North Node in Capricorn/10th House: Focusing on your long-term goals is the key to long-term confidence. Your soul will thank you for working in the long-run. You will feel respect for yourself for your tenacity to stick to your goals, and be successful at them! If there is something that Saturn loves - it is consistency. Being able to stick to your goals will give you a stable sense of self. What does the world need right now?

Affirmation: "I pursue my ambitions with integrity and contribute positively to society."​

🌐 North Node in Aquarius/11th House: With the North Node in Aquarius or the 11th House, it is vital to not be scared of groups, or to be worried about your desires for change. In this lifetime, your ability to uplift, motivate and change societal groups and causes for the better will help you to feel as though you are truly making a change. 

Affirmation: "I connect with like-minded individuals to inspire and create positive change."​

🧘‍♀️ North Node in Pisces/12th House: Your long-term confidence lies in the belief of divine-timing. This placement helps you to explore spirituality, the benefits of being alone sometimes, your intuition and what brings you inner peace. Moments of solitude and silence will help to guide you through life’s ups and downs - and to always remember to be in the flow of the universe, and to trust your own intuition and spirituality. 

Affirmation: "I surrender to the flow of the universe and trust in my spiritual journey."​

For a comprehensive understanding of your North Node placement or to book your personalised reading, click here!

[in-my-loki-feels]

👈 lokius

Thank you for the prompt! <3 This one was also requested by lokiloving. I may try to do a second ficlet, but there are other asks I want to get to first so please enjoy this for now! (Also thank you to @devilbearingtrouble for helping with a clunky bit of this. Please read her take on this prompt. It's so good!!)

cw NSFW (but come on, look at the prompt)

8.👈 Fingers in mouth/on lips

“If you're not going to eat it, why get it?” Mobius asked, feeling a little petulant on behalf of the neglected pie. It was a waste of a meal token, not to mention delicious pie.  Loki glanced down at the neon green slice in front of him.  “I’m eating it,” he said, and picked up his fork to swirl it through the perfect dollop of whipped cream on top. Mobius sighed.   “You're not eating it, you're playing with it.” “No, I'm playing with you,” Loki said, his green eyes locking onto Mobius with sudden intent. “Or I’d like to.”

It was such a sudden shift in behavior, it snatched Mobius’ breath. Loki had been relaxed in his chair, a smile teasing his lips. Now he looked at Mobius like a hunter eyeing prey. It was the sort of shift Mobius had seen Loki pull in Sacred Timeline footage, but never since arriving at the TVA.  “Very funny,” Mobius said, trying to move past the strange moment by cutting off another piece of his own pie. As he brought it to his lips, he looked across the table and saw Loki had given up the fork; instead, he swiped some of the whipped cream with his finger. Loki’s lips curved as he mirrored the path of Mobius’ fork, bringing his own finger to his mouth and closing his lips around it.  Mobius almost choked on his piece of pie. Loki took his time cleaning his finger, while Mobius coughed and tried to get the remains down without inhaling more. Heat suffused him, concentrating in his face—which had to be bright red—and pooling in his crotch.  “What—” He broke off with another cough.  “You know, something about mine simply doesn’t taste right,” Loki mused. He uncrossed those long legs of his, rising to his full height, and stepped over to Mobius’ side of the table. The wicked light hadn’t left his green eyes. He put one hand on the table beside Mobius’ plate, bending down so they were nearly eye to eye.  As Mobius watched, his mouth falling open, Loki stuck his finger—the same one he’d just cleaned cream off of—into what remained of the whipped cream on Mobius’ slice of pie. Then he brought it to his mouth and wrapped his fingers around it slowly, holding Mobius’ gaze as he did. His jaw moved, just enough for Mobius to imagine what Loki was doing with his tongue, and then he pulled his finger free with a pop.  Mobius felt frozen in his chair, unable to do anything but watch the events unfold. His heart pounded in his ears, rushing more blood south where he was already hard.   “That doesn’t taste quite right either,” Loki said. “It’s missing something…”  Mobius jumped when Loki took hold of his hand, his fork clattering to the table. Loki folded down all of Mobius' fingers down except his index finger, then guided Mobius’ hand down to dip that finger into the whipped cream. There was hardly any left, just enough to coat the skin.  Mobius felt like everything in the automat had come to a stop except Loki, who brought Mobius’ finger up to his mouth and slowly wrapped his lips around it.  Warm and wet were the first things Mobius thought and then ohhh, as Loki curled his tongue around Mobius’ finger. Mobius jerked in his chair as the sensation went straight down through his body to his cock. He moaned as Loki closed his eyes and sucked, even though there couldn’t have been anything left. Loki pulled Mobius’ finger out, keeping his lips tight around it until it was free, then opened his eyes and smiled.  “That’s what I was looking for,” he purred.

Prompts are here. Other ficlets here.

[spiralingthoughtpost]

Vedic Astrology Observations

Ketu Dominant Men

(GIF context: This GIF shows Jamie Dornan [Magha Moon] in 50 Shades of Grey, which has heavy themes of both Ketu and Mercury– Magha and Ashlesha.)

Ketu or "Chaya Graha", envisaged as the dragon's tail or a headless form, is a symbol of the utmost spiritual significance in Vedic astrology. It is the shadow planet representative of the South Node of the Moon, and it has the most significant karmic role. Ketu represents the process of spiritual growth that comes from isolation, detachment, and renunciation. Through the immersion of intuition and ascetic practices, Ketu facilitates the shedding of life's illusions and aids in the journey towards spiritual enlightenment, demonstrating how its influence tends to embody the more complex and often challenging aspects of the human experience on the path to spiritual release. In the kundli (birth chart), wherever Ketu is placed signifies where the soul is stripped of its external dependencies and illusions. Simultaneously, the placement of Ketu indicates where one possesses natural power brought into this incarnation from a previous mastery in prior lifetimes. Tapping into this energy requires a process of purification, where one is compelled to let go of attachments, desires, and even identities that no longer serve spiritual growth. This celestial influence, while guiding us towards spiritual enlightenment through the accumulation of past knowledge and garnered lessons, is regarded as a malefic influence. It is often associated with the idea of sabotage or obstruction in one’s material life. Ketu's malefic character can be understood as a necessary catalyst for transformation. Just as a dragon's tail signifies the end of a creature and a headless form denotes a lack of conventional sensory perception, Ketu's influence is about the cessation of the familiar, more comfortable aspects of life. This nature of Ketu reflects the complicated and somewhat paradoxical journey of spiritual growth. Similar to Rahu, it challenges individuals by disrupting the status quo in ways that may initially appear destructive or sabotaging. These disruptions are not arbitrary, however; they are purposeful, forcing introspection and reassessment of one's life path for the sake of uncovering higher truth.

Ketu, in Vedic astrology, holds a significant influence on an individual's personality and life path, and this influence extends distinctly to Ketu-dominant men, distinguished by having primary placement(s) in either of the three Ketu ruled nakshatras: Ashwini, Magha, or Mula. Ketu's dominance in a chart often results in a personality that sets people apart in their approach to life, relationships, and self-expression. While many of these observations may apply to both men and women, there are particular traits and tendencies that seem to be more pronounced in Ketu dominant men that I'd like to focus on. By looking at the examples given in this post, I hope you'll be able to look at Ketu a bit more clearly through the expression of its natives.

(GIF contexts: First one is of Alexander Skarsgard [Magha Sun, Moon, and Asc. If you want to understand magha in men, study this guy, lol. The second GIF shows Daniel Gillies [Magha Moon and Ashwini Jupiter.])

In Vedic astrology, Ketu's influence in Ashwini Nakshatra creates distinctive qualities in men under its sway, embodying a dynamic and vivacious essence. This nakshatra conveys notions of speed, agility, vitality, courage, and tenacity, traits deeply ingrained in Ashwini men. They are often perceived as energetic and quick in thought and action, carrying a persistent zest for life that propels them towards new ventures and experiences with remarkable swiftness. This Nakshatra, associated with the Ashwini Kumaras – the twin horsemen sons of Surya (Sun god) known for their healing prowess in Vedic mythology – bestows upon its natives a natural inclination towards healing and rejuvenation, be it in physical, emotional, or spiritual contexts. Ashwini men exhibit an adventurous spirit and a curiosity that extends beyond the physical and into spiritual and intellectual explorations. However, this constant pursuit of novelty can manifest as a tendency towards restlessness or impulsivity, which can be particularly dangerous given Ketu's theme of temptation and continual transformation. Ashwini's initiatory nature also comes with the caveat of dropping old paths and starting again. The influence of Ketu in this nakshatra forces new beginnings, and sometimes this can be harsh for the natives and those around them, since it can feel like they are not really present unless there is fresh excitement. They can be sort of "hit it and quit it" when it comes to many different things in their lives, and you will have to look to different areas of the chart to see if they can be "tamed" so-to-speak. Ashwini Nakshatra also holds a special significance as it is the exaltation point of the Sun, a factor that adds another layer of complexity to Ketu's influence in this nakshatra. The Sun's exaltation in Ashwini indicates a nature compatible and conducive to the energy of the Sun, which is known for its righteous purity and expenditure of energy in addition to its scalding nature when things get too close. Since Ketu cannot provide or reflect its own light, its ability to give energy will depend on the planets it is with and the energy it absorbs from others (but it will do best by itself realistically). This will inevitably create a sense of exceptional vitality, confidence, and a strong sense of self for these individuals. Ketu's celestial alignment with the Sun in this nakshatra suggests that, while Ashwini brings qualities of introspection and spiritual inclination (especially as it relates to initiatory beginnings), they also possess a powerful presence, an ability to lead, and a radiant quality symbolistic of inborn power. In essence, the exaltation of the Sun in Ashwini Nakshatra can bring forth a unique archetype of individuals who are not only seekers and healers but also leaders and changemakers.

(GIF contexts: The first GIF shows Dwayne Johnson [Mula Moon]. The second one shows Arnold Schwarzenegger [Mula Moon]. I am fairly certain both have been open about being naturally fit but then eventually switching to steroids)

Magha Nakshatra is characterized by themes of royalty, nobility, and the ancestral lineage, standing as a testament to the "mighty one." Symbolized by the royal throne, Magha is connected to themes of authority, power, and respect for tradition. The symbol of this nakshatra is the royal throne, and the ruling deity is Pitris, which are the ancestors. These signify natives who will have a deep connection to their ancestors and will receive blessings of power because of this. Men under the influence of Magha Nakshatra often display a reverence for their heritage, showing a notable pride in their ancestry and a commitment to preserving the legacy bequeathed to them through generations. This reverence for lineage is more than a nod to status or pride; it's an acknowledgment of the wisdom, duties, and responsibilities inherited from their forebears. Ketu's influence in Magha enhances the introspective and spiritual facets of these individuals, urging them to explore the meaning of existence beyond the mere physical realm. They often exhibit a strong inclination toward exploring rituals, history, and metaphysical truths, seeking to understand their place within the cycle of life and death. Magha men often possess an inherent sense of authority and a demeanor that commands respect, often finding themselves in roles that allow them to exert significant influence and guidance over others from their drive for power and recognition (one example of this is Donald Trump who has Magha ascendant, but I would not consider him Ketu dominant). Their leadership comes from a dignified bearing and nobility, reflecting Magha's royal "kingly" symbolism. Additionally, these natives are very creative and habitual. They are guided by their intuition, which taps into Leo's vibrant reservoir of artistic flair and inventive fervor. This intuitive connection fuels their desire to engage with the world in a way that feels instinctive and natural, allowing them to operate almost on "autopilot," where they do much the same things day after day so that they can free up their mind to focus on aspirations they consider more important. Such an approach enables them to withdraw into their inner worlds, providing a sanctuary where they can be free from the burdens of planning or deliberate thinking.

The final and most refined Ketu-nakshatra, Mula, encapsulates the essence of transformation and an unyielding pursuit of truth. Its ruling deity, Nirriti, is the goddess of destruction and dissolution, playing an important role in its influence on this nakshatra and its natives. Represented by the root of a plant, Mula signifies the foundation, inception, and the most profound layers of being. Men influenced by Mula Nakshatra are distinguished by their urge to unearth the underlying truths of life, a quest that compels them to probe into and understand life's most fundamental elements. These individuals are propelled by a need for authenticity and are often involved in tearing down superficial or outdated structures to rebuild more meaningful and genuine ones. This can make them seem intense or extreme, but their actions are motivated by a sincere desire to uncover and establish truths. Their journey is one of continuous transformation with phases of destruction and rebirth, reflecting the cycle of life itself. This endeavor is challenging and demands courage, as it often entails venturing into the obscure and uncharted territories of the psyche and the external world. Such journeys can be as unsettling as they are transformative, leading to significant upheavals. Being at the height of its expression and the final gandanta, Mula personifies the essence of Ketu in its most powerful manifestation, showing its natives as relentless seekers of the hidden, uncomfortable truths that lie at the very heart of existence. Their journey is one of perpetual evolution, driven by the need to strip away all that is insubstantial to reveal the core truths that make up the cosmos at large.

(GIF contexts: The first one shows Jonathan Rhys Myers [Mula Moon and Asc.] The second one shows Cillian Murphy [Ashwini Moon]. The third one shows Milo Ventimiglia [Ashwini Moon.])

Individuals with a dominant Ketu as a whole in their astrological charts exhibit a character depth that is both remarkable and elusive. Their disposition, heavily influenced by introspection and a pronounced spiritual bent, markedly differs from the traits typically associated with other planetary dominants. Such individuals often exude an air of understated simplicity, coupled with an inherent complexity that defies superficial expectations. The influence of Ketu in their lives is distinct and potent, shaping their perspectives and actions in unique ways. For example, these Ketu-dominant individuals frequently exhibit a noticeable disengagement or indifference towards conventional societal success metrics and rules, such as material wealth, status, or typical career achievements and are more focused on base survival. However, this lack of interest does not necessarily preclude them from attaining these successes. In fact, their innate ability to unearth concealed truths often positions them as agents of significant change or realization in others, providing them with a unique form of attention and influence. This laissez-faire attitude towards success and rules in addition to their ability to attract and channel energy from their surroundings can paradoxically lead them to positions of immense power, despite an apparent absence of traditional discipline and seriousness often observed in most other leaders. Their ascent to such roles can seem almost suspicious, calling to question the subtle yet powerful influence of Ketu in their personal and professional trajectories as it relates to subverting the rational mind.

In social contexts, Ketu-dominant men command a subtle yet significant influence, characterized by an allure that is both captivating and somewhat unnerving. In gatherings, they might not be the most vocal figures, yet their impact is tangible, drawing admirers and leaving a memorable imprint on those they encounter. This influence resembles a kind of gravitational force, attracting people not through an assertive persona but through the depth of their character. People in the vicinity of Ketu-dominant men often feel an inexplicable urge to confide in them or seek guidance, perceiving a hidden wisdom. However, this magnetic pull can also lead to a dynamic where others project their desires onto these men, interpreting their enigmatic, void-like nature as a blank slate for their emotional or psychological needs. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced with Mercury-dominant and Moon-dominant women, who are drawn to these men, sometimes mistaking the serene stillness of Ketu for the intense solar energy associated with a solar mastered masculine principle. Such misinterpretations can give rise to complicated interpersonal relationships, where Ketu-dominant men become the unintended focal point of intense expectations or emotions from others. Their role in social groups often hinges on their capacity to absorb and subtly influence the energies around them. This makes them effective, albeit unobtrusive, leaders, advisors, or agents of change. They possess an ability to uncover truths and insights that might elude others, and this gives them power to understand, influence, and transform the energies around them in drastic ways.

Broadly speaking, the energy absorption characteristic of men with a dominant Ketu often translates into a desire for activities that enhance their physical vitality, giving them the ability to store more and consume more excess energy. A significant number of these men gravitate towards bodybuilding among other intense fitness regimens, and even those who do not actively engage in such pursuits will still often possess well-defined physiques, simply because they are predisposed to having to rely on others. This tends to evoke extreme envy in other men who typically idolize their appearance similar to the way they do with Saturn men, but even more so, because Ketu isn't restricted in the same way Saturn is. Ketu isn't the type that is working out 5 days a week, maintaining a strict diet to stay in shape, and putting in the time and effort to rise to a position of authority. It is more like eating whatever they want and barely exercising to somehow still maintain a six pack (and taking steroids) and being stumbled upon by a modeling agent who signs them out of the blue (this reminded me of that one guy, Jeremy Meeks, who was arrested and became a model from his mugshot He has Jupiter in Mula). This physicality, however, is just one facet of their widespread appeal. These individuals are also often the subjects of envy for their innate stillness and detachment, traits that enliven them with a magnetic quality. This magnetism, ranking them as one of the most heated polar influences second only to the sun, manifests in a presence that is both captivating and subtly disquieting, affecting others on a deep, subconscious, and often uncomfortable level. The allure of Ketu-dominant men does not stem from their vibrance or charisma in the conventional sense like it does with other heated planets such as Mars; rather, people are drawn to them out of a sense of obligation or a feeling that they should offer everything within their means to these individuals, sensing unconsciously that they are dependent on energy exchange. This dynamic is reminiscent of an authority figure who commands an obsessive following, akin to a revered boss to whom everyone wants to offer gifts, engage in discussions, seek approval from, or in extreme cases cross professional boundaries with. Their natural Tamasic disposition, which requires external sources of vitality to sustain itself, inevitably attracts individuals ready to lavish them with excess energy and resources. However, this can be a double-edged sword. The instinctual adoration they receive, a facet of Ketu's malevolent influence towards the native acting as temptation from their spiritual purpose, can lead them down more sensual and materialistic paths, particularly if not moderated by external forces. This situation is comparable to enabling a drug addict’s harmful habits, where indulging their vices and forgiving them in moments of weakness exacerbates their challenges rather than aiding recovery. This example is especially critical to consider, seeing that Ketu natives' susceptibility to losing themselves in substances like drugs and alcohol that cloud the conscious mind is extremely high. These are the type of individuals to indulge in these types of things like drinking, smoking, or whatever else they can use to blot out their sense of identity–much more than they probably should. Recognizing and addressing this vulnerability is important, as it plays a significant role in their journey, particularly when they are eventually compelled to confront the repercussions of their actions when led down the wrong path. When Ketu dominant individuals engage excessively in materialistic pursuits rather than in intuitive self-exploration, they often find themselves mired in dissatisfaction and left with a sense of emptiness that they struggle to comprehend.

The enthralling influence of Ketu can have a major impact on those around them, sometimes leading to attempts by others to remodel themselves to better align with the preferences of the Ketu-dominant person. This adaptation often entails the erosion of personal boundaries and the suppression of self-preservation instincts, driven by an overwhelming fascination or obsession with the Ketu individual. It is almost like they are cult leaders who, without trying, command power over others. This phenomenon mirrors certain dynamics observed with Moon-dominant individuals, who are recognized for their emotional depth, capacity for nurturing, and power over the masses, but Ketu's influence pushes this to another level entirely. The power wielded by Ketu-dominant individuals, therefore, transcends mere emotional or even subconscious manipulation or influence; it taps into a more fundamental level of interaction, where the boundaries between self and other blur. This positions Ketu-dominant individuals, especially men, as extremely influential figures in the lives of those they interact with, capable of inspiring unsettling transformations in their admirers and followers.

Ketu-dominant men have a tendency to be more explicit in their expression of sexuality, occasionally casting a sexual hue over interactions that are otherwise non-sexual, through both overt and subtle displays. This pronounced sexualization of their interactions and aspects of their persona is reflective of their complex nature and serves as a method of attracting others for the purpose of energy exchange. They often utilize their physical presence and sexual magnetism as mechanisms to draw others into their orbit, encouraging an exchange of energy that transcends mere physical attraction. However, this aspect of their identity, while significant, can overshadow other dimensions of their personality. The focus on their sexual allure and the power dynamics it engenders contributes to a skewed perception of their character, often magnifying the "bad boy" archetype they follow. This label stems from societal expectations and projections rather than the individual's authentic self. In reality, many Ketu-dominant men may not inherently embody the dark or mysterious persona often ascribed to them; rather, they seek normalcy and genuine connection. It is just that they struggle to do so due to the intensity of Ketu leaving them bereft of normalcy. The misalignment between perception and reality can lead these individuals to be pigeonholed into roles that don't fully resonate with their true selves from an early age, compelling them to navigate a complex social landscape that emphasizes their sexual persona and outward eccentricities over their true identity.

(GIF contexts: The first one shows Justin Timberlake [Mula Moon and Magha Asc] and Mila Kunis in Friends with Benefits. If you have not seen it, their "arrangement" basically overly gets complicated because it gets too emotionally intimate and intense for them. The second one shows Jared Leto as Joker in suicide squad. I think this is a good example of how people tend to perceive these people as being darker than they really are and get casted in roles that emphasize their darker aspects. It's also fitting that the Joker just wanted to be alone but has Harley Quinn constantly chasing after him.)

When Ketu dominant individuals are more aligned with their purpose and resist extreme temptations, their interests often veer towards spiritual, creative, or philosophical domains. In these areas, they seek deeper, existential meanings and truths. Their pursuit of understanding the subtle intricacies of existence frequently leads them to explore unconventional paths, whether it be in metaphysics, the occult, philosophy, religion, or other subcultural movements that provide them with a sense of purpose. In environments where superficial interactions are commonplace, these individuals may not be easily understood or appreciated. Their depth and complexity demand more than superficial engagement for true comprehension, but most people should be wary of this, as like I said they can seem simple and grounded but will shake up your life in more ways than what you're probably wanting. Nonetheless, there remains a tendency for people to be drawn to these individuals, often submitting to their enigmatic draw they have that makes people stop thinking so much about rationality. This attraction, however, can sometimes result in Ketu dominant individuals being perceived as aloof or controlling, which is a misinterpretation of their true nature. Their apparent detachment is not indicative of a lack of empathy or a desire to dominate (they really don't want any control; people just give it to them). Instead, it stems from their intense internal focus and the ongoing process of inner development and self-realization. Their internal journey is a reflection of their outer nature, often misunderstood by those who only engage with them on a surface level. The depth of a Ketu dominant person's introspection and quest for understanding transcends the ordinary, making them complex figures who navigate their existence in ways that are not immediately apparent to the casual observer. Their journey is not just about self-discovery in terms of labels or findings one's place in the material world but also about how this internal transformation manifests in their interactions with theirs and other peoples' spirits.

Ketu dominant men often have compelling and unique perspectives on life and relationships, favoring deeply meaningful connections over temporary, superficial ones, which is usually what people want them for. Not many people can handle giving their energy away constantly, so even though it can feel like you want to give everything you have to them, when you have nothing left to give and they still aren't satisfied, it will start to take a toll on even the most fortified levels of patience. Their approach to love and relationships is characterized by a certain, shall I say... unpredictability; they are known for oscillating between periods of intense engagement and phases of extreme solitude. This pattern, which might resemble love bombing to certain people, reflects their struggle to balance their rich inner world with external relationships. These relationships are crucial for their vital energy management, yet maintaining them can be challenging due to their inward focus. In the context of friendships and family relationships, Ketu dominant individuals often appear to be on the receiving end more than anything. They can recycle energy they get from other sources to redirect it, but they'll get burnt out fairly quickly if others are not also consistently pouring themselves into these people. They maintain an aura of mystery, even among those closest to them because they can go from being hyper-social to complete hermit at the drop of a hat, in addition to being completely different in their heads compared to how others perceive them. Their approach to relationships deviates from the traditional, being more aligned with spiritual and intuitive interpretations of connections rather than conventional societal norms. This unconventional approach to relationships often leads to associations of then with the concept of "Twin Flames," likely due to the intensity and depth of connections they forge, but I wouldn't say these are particularly unique experiences to have with these people. They are just generally intense when it comes to everyone. Speaking of this, they will often be the ones to initially pursue the relationships with someone they want (including the women) and can be very persistent at it. They can become a bit overbearing, since in instances like that people initially were willing to give them energy but then started getting followed as they pulled away (kind of like having a stray dog follow you home after you feed it that can become aggressive if you don't continue to take care of it [while it may or may not destroy your home]; just a metaphor; it is not meant to be derogatory in any way-- some people can handle it and will love to do that, and it helps if they have more sattvic energies to balance it out so that it isn't super demanding). Anyway, back to the matter at hand. Yeah, they are typically the one's to initially pursue relationships with the people they want. Ketu dominant men are typically drawn to partners who share a similar depth and understanding of life in addition to their willingness to provide for him (this doesn't always mean financially; they can be very financially well off but still need a lot of attention, sex, etc. because they need energy exchange to function.) However, their compelling nature tends to attract a diverse array of individuals, many of whom may attempt to pretend to be someone they are not to align with the Ketu individual's desires, often at the cost of engaging in a sort of unspoken rivalry, where people stake claim to the Ketu person. This phenomenon demonstrates the effect of Ketu dominant individuals and those drawn into their orbit, highlighting the intricate dance of identity and adaptation in their relationships and the intensity people have a hard time understanding rationally. Their journey in love and companionship is not just about finding a compatible partner but also about navigating the intricate dynamics that their nature inevitably invites.

(GIF contexts: The first is of Chris Pine in Wonder Woman. I looked specifically for this example because I remember watching this and thinking how odd it was for him to make this otherwise normal scene so sexually intense, looking at Diana while standing there naked and commenting on being "above average." The second one pretty much speaks for itself, lol, and is of Eddie Cibrian [Mula Moon]. The third is of Derek Hough [Ashwini Moon and Mercury]. The fourth is Mickey Rourke [Magha Moon]).

Ketu-dominant men often personify the archetype of the solitary seeker, captivating everyone's attention despite their preference for solitary introspection. They mirror the essence of an isolated mystic or artist that people are still obsessed with, drawing people to them who feel a compelling need to help them exchange energy in various forms (while I was kind of just exploring this thought, it reminded me of the Lion from Sing 2 played by Clay Calloway and the movie showed them going out in the middle of nowhere to go get him for their concert, and it turns out he has Mula Sun). This dynamic resembles the experiences of being famous, where, irrespective of one's desire for privacy, there is a constant pull from others to engage in some form of energy exchange, be it through a photograph, a conversation, a performance, or more intimate interactions. This intensity of interaction can be overwhelming and is a testament to the powerful presence these individuals possess.

In their professional lives, they may gravitate towards roles that favor deep analysis, solitary work, or engagement with the metaphysical aspects of their field, but there are usually still aspects of power – be it as researchers, healers, spiritual leaders, or creative artists. Their approach to relationships and social interactions is apparent from a discernible depth; they are the individuals who, at gatherings, might be found in the center of everything even though they were just trying to sit in a quiet corner to have a deep conversation with someone else. Preferring the sanctity of their personal space, they also might not even attend even though people will still try to drag them out. With the sun, it is more direct and will burn people that get too close, whereas for Ketu it can become draining and overly intense in the sense of Ketu men's piercing ability to reveal hidden truths. It demonstrates the paradox of their existence: while they are naturally inclined towards isolation and introspective pursuits, their fundamental nature attracts others who seek to either bask in their aura or dole out energy, even when Sun and Ketu natives themselves prefer the quietude of their own company. (As a side note, Ketu can really piss off the Sun sometimes, because Ketu doesn't combust. It can latch onto the solar energy without having to deal with the harshness of it, and that seriously disturbs Sun-dominant individuals because they are both very heated in polarity). In their professional lives, Ketu-dominant men typically gravitate towards roles that require deep analysis, solitary work, or a focus on the metaphysical dimensions of their field. Even in these settings, elements of power and influence are often present, whether they serve as researchers, healers, spiritual leaders, or creative artists. Their unique approach to relationships and social interactions is marked by an unmistakable depth.

(GIF contexts: First one is of Hugh Grant [Ashwini Moon and Mula Jupiter]. Second one is Tyler Hoechlin [Ashwini Moon and Jupiter].

[lilacartsmadsion]

Decided to show their full designs.

The Shadows of the gods or The Pillars of Darkness:

They guard the borders of Earthbread from the forces outside, Humans, Wizards all of them are a threat to the Light’s wonderful paradise of freshly baked cookies. Each one is a Shadow of the gods entirely and sometimes even worshipped as minor deities called ‘Legends’

They go by many names.

The Shadows of The Divine

The Pillars of Darkness

The Guardians of Earthbread.

Each Pillar follows the will of each god.

Grim Reaper/Deathly Licorice Cookie:

The Shadow and Angel of The Abysmal Gingerdozer…he who places those to eternal slumber. The final sleep of death. By the will of the Abysmal One does he follow, plague, destruction and malnutrition follow his path, for the lone path of death is not one many want to follow…

The Grim Reaper was created as a gift by The Nameless…given away to his brother to keep his titles afloat. Representing the dark black void of death, the quick release of silence the night offers in the dark…The Angel soars from on high guarding the borders from all directions. To the East he resides as that is birthplace. Go east if you wish to enter the realm of the dead, but beware for he is watches upon the endless sky…

The Cookies of this realm worship him as the deity of death, out of respect for keeping the order of this world…as thus he is called ‘The Pillar of Death’

Empyreal Pomegranate Cookie:

The Shadow and Priestess of the Ethereal Strawberry Cookie. She presides over the faithful and grants the blessings of luck upon those whose hearts are pure. The Priestess follows the will of the goddess of love, however blind her faith may be…

The Empyreal Vassal blesses those who put their whole faith in the gods and grants the chosen luck and grace throughout their lives. Protection is sought out once you seek her, as she protects those who are persecuted and scorned. To the North is where she resides for love and faith is the direction of the coldest hatred. She protects her side of the border with her unwavering curses of hatred. Go North if you wish for her aid, pass her trials of faith and she will protect you.

The Cookies of this realm worship her as a deity of protection, due to their unwavering faith in her abilities she is henceforth known as ‘The Pillar of Faith’

Jubilant Poison Mushroom Cookie:

The Shadow and Servant of the Glorious Gingerbright. They guide the young and nurtures the forgotten. Children are called to follow their path and adhere their example. They provide nutrition for the young, tend to the youthfulness of children, and most of all listen to the cries of the forgotten…

The Jubilant Deity brings forth the life within children. The freedom and development of their lives. Some say that this type of love is chaotic, but for the eyes of the deity, children deserve to experience even the slightest amount of joy. They are revered as their patron god and above all protector. They protect their side of the border with the poison of chaos. Go forth South for their protection, for they accept all children in their land.

The Cookies of this realm worship them as a deity of chaos, the reason why their name has switched to poison…though they call upon the freedom of the youth they are also known to be quite the trickster…thus they are named ‘The Pillar of Chaos’

Impervious Red Velvet Cookie:

The Shadow and Knight of The Apoditic Wizard Cookie. He resides over all matters of warfare and battle. The concept of war and strife is etched unto his mind. The Final Witness of the true nature of the Witches, The Impervious one protects his side of the borders with an Iron Fist.

The Impervious Knight reigns over a tower made of cakes, guarded by the legendary cake hounds of the ancient recipes of the Wizards. Using these he creates an army capable of protecting the cookies from all harm. He guards his side of the borders with pure might. Go West to seek out his domain, but beware for none make it back alive…

The Cookies of this realm worship him as a deity of war. Though they fear his might they respect him as a protector. Thus naming him ‘The Pillar of War’

The Dark Enchantress Cookie:

Much like the Nameless, His shadow bears no name, but a title. Created from the dough of the Wizards her might shines the night sky into pure oblivion. The shadows is where she lurks, the endless night is where she wakes. Born with the anger and sorrow of the Light she soars the sky with her army of cakes in tow.

The Dark Enchantress bears the weight of the darkness reminding the cookies of the balance between dark and light. The Shadows can aid and hide those who need protection. But blind those from the sights of their enemies. A reminder that the darkness is neither friend nor foe…She protects the borders of Earthbread with the might of the gods by her side. Go to the center of Earthbread, seek out the Millennial Tree…and pray tell she will be there.

The Cookies of this realm regard her as a deity of darkness, out of respect and pure awe in her the Cookies dub her ‘The Pillar of Darkness’

Each of these Pillars have a role to play in protecting the borders of Earthbread…may they reign eternal in their will of protection…

———————————————

I blame @cuppajj’s Beast Ancients AU for reviving my inspiration back from the dead. I’m trying to plan out the Legends’ backstory but let’s just say I’m also trying to figure out the main story.

Aka the actual plot of the AU. ‘That time I adopted a god’

Cause I haven’t really given Gingerbrave a direct motive for leaving and turning mortal. I’m THIS tempted to do an LMK Nuwa move. For him tbh.

But yeah here’s the Pillars of Darkness folks.

[duckprintspress]

Books with Queer Autistic Characters for Autism Awareness Month

April is Autism Awareness month, and we’re here to share (more) of our favorite queer autistic or autistic-coded characters! Last year we shared six books; three of those are back this year, and we’ve got 5 more. You can see the 2024 list here. The contributors to this list are: Sebastian Marie, Neo Scarlett, Tris Lawrence, Linnea Peterson, Terra P. Waters, Shadaras and boneturtle.

An Unkindness of Ghosts by Rivers Solomon

Aster has little to offer folks in the way of rebuttal when they call her ogre and freak. She’s used to the names; she only wishes there was more truth to them. If she were truly a monster, she’d be powerful enough to tear down the walls around her until nothing remains of her world.

Aster lives in the lowdeck slums of the HSS Matilda, a space vessel organized much like the antebellum South. For generations, Matilda has ferried the last of humanity to a mythical Promised Land. On its way, the ship’s leaders have imposed harsh moral restrictions and deep indignities on dark-skinned sharecroppers like Aster. Embroiled in a grudge with a brutal overseer, Aster learns there may be a way to improve her lot – if she’s willing to sow the seeds of civil war.

Once Stolen by D.N. Bryn

No one with half a brain would rob the jungle’s most notorious energy cartel-but their power-producing stones are the only thing that soothes Cacao’s mysterious pain, and after being banished from his homeland for similar thefts, the lonely naga is desperate enough to try.

When his ramshackle thievery goes wrong, a chaotic escape leaves him chained to the cartel’s prisoner: a self-proclaimed hero with a hidden stash of power stones so large that Cacao would never need to steal again. He’s determined to get his hands on it, even if it means guiding the annoyingly smug, annoyingly valiant, and even more annoyingly beautiful hero back home. But their path runs straight through the mist-laden and monster-filled swamp that exiled Cacao, with scheming poachers and a desperate cartel leader on their tail.

The selfish and the self-righteous can only flee together for so long before something snaps…

The Many Half-Lived Lives of Sam Sylvester by Maya MacGregor

Sam Sylvester has long collected stories of half-lived lives—of kids who died before they turned nineteen. Sam was almost one of those kids. Now, as Sam’s own nineteenth birthday approaches, their recent near-death experience haunts them. They’re certain they don’t have much time left.

But Sam’s life seems to be on the upswing after meeting several new friends and a potential love interest in Shep, their next-door neighbor. Yet the past keeps roaring back—in Sam’s memories and in the form of a thirty-year-old suspicious death that took place in Sam’s new home. Sam can’t resist trying to find out more about the kid who died and who now seems to guide their investigation. When Sam starts receiving threatening notes, they know they’re on the path to uncovering a murderer. But are they digging through the past or digging their own future grave?

Ellen Outside the Lines by A.J. Sass

Thirteen-year-old Ellen Katz feels most comfortable when her life is well planned out and people fit neatly into her predefined categories. She attends temple with Abba and Mom every Friday and Saturday. Ellen only gets crushes on girls, never boys, and she knows she can always rely on her best-and-only friend, Laurel, to help navigate social situations at their private Georgia middle school. Laurel has always made Ellen feel like being autistic is no big deal. But lately, Laurel has started making more friends, and cancelling more weekend plans with Ellen than she keeps. A school trip to Barcelona seems like the perfect place for Ellen to get their friendship back on track. Except it doesn’t. Toss in a new nonbinary classmate whose identity has Ellen questioning her very binary way of seeing the world, homesickness, a scavenger hunt-style team project that takes the students through Barcelona to learn about Spanish culture and this trip is anything but what Ellen planned.

Making new friends and letting go of old ones is never easy, but Ellen might just find a comfortable new place for herself if she can learn to embrace the fact that life doesn’t always stick to a planned itinerary.

May the Best Man Win by Z.R. Ellor

Jeremy Harkiss, cheer captain and student body president, won’t let coming out as a transgender boy ruin his senior year. Instead of bowing to the bigots and outdate school administration, Jeremy decides to make some noise—and how better than by challenging his all-star ex-boyfriend, Lukas for the title of Homecoming King?

Lukas Rivers, football star and head of the Homecoming Committee, is just trying to find order in his life after his older brother’s funeral and the loss of his long-term girlfriend—who turned out to be a boy. But when Jeremy threatens to break his heart and steal his crown, Lukas kick starts a plot to sabotage Jeremy’s campaign.

When both boys take their rivalry too far, the dance is on the verge of being canceled. To save Homecoming, they’ll have to face the hurt they’re both hiding—and the lingering butterflies they can’t deny.

Camp Damascus by Chuck Tingle

Welcome to Neverton, Montana: home to a God-fearing community with a heart of gold.

Nestled high up in the mountains is Camp Damascus, the self-proclaimed “most effective” gay conversion camp in the country. Here, a life free from sin awaits. But the secret behind that success is anything but holy.

And they’ll scare you straight to hell.

All Systems Red by Martha Wells

In a corporate-dominated spacefaring future, planetary missions must be approved and supplied by the Company. Exploratory teams are accompanied by Company-supplied security androids, for their own safety.

But in a society where contracts are awarded to the lowest bidder, safety isn’t a primary concern.

On a distant planet, a team of scientists are conducting surface tests, shadowed by their Company-supplied ‘droid—a self-aware SecUnit that has hacked its own governor module, and refers to itself (though never out loud) as “Murderbot.” Scornful of humans, all it really wants is to be left alone long enough to figure out who it is.

But when a neighboring mission goes dark, it’s up to the scientists and their Murderbot to get to the truth.

Navigational Entanglements by Aliette de Bodard

Việt Nhi is not good with people. Or politics. Which is a problem when the Rooster clan sends her on the mission against her will, forcing her to work with an ill-matched group of squabbling teammates from rival clans, including one who she can’t avoid, and maybe doesn’t want to.

Hạc Cúc of the Snake clan has always been better at poisoning and stabbing than at making friends, but she’s drawn to Nhi’s perceptiveness and obliviousness to social conventions—including the ones that really should make Nhi think twice about spending time with her.

But when their imperial envoy and nominal leader is poisoned, this crew of expendable apprentices will have to learn to work together—fast—before the invisible Tangler can wreak havoc on a civilian city and destroy the fragile reputation of the clans. Along the way, Nhi and Hạc Cúc will have to learn the hardest lesson of all: to see past their own misconceptions and learn to trust their growing feelings for each other.

You can see these and other queer reads with autistic characters on our Goodreads book shelf. Alternatively, buy yourself a copy through our affiliate shop on Bookshop.org! Duck Prints Press Bookshop.org affiliate shop.

Love talking books? Join us on the Duck Prints Press Book Lover’s Discord server!

[caelyne]

aether ridge

im gonna just write my thoughts on it. i find it amusing how much people despise this region, tho i can understand the reasons for that. AR and its multitude of subregions do make a large slice of the region list in the expansion. they're kinda samey, the level design is questionable at times, and its presence somewhat overbearing. we're back in the fucking building again babeeyyy!!!!!

i personally dont mind it that much tbh. a friend of mine put it quite succinctly in that its just an arcadey/generic rain world level. some definitely may see this as a negative, but i think they included aether ridge and it split up its massive layout to pad the expansion a bit? which doesnt sound great putting it like that, but knowing that there was some pressure to release the game before it was fully realized, i think it was a reasonable move to make. i also like that the dev team included modders on this project as well and i think its a nice gesture to the community.

i mostly want to point out something that i think ended up frustrating a lot of players though. lets look at this flowchart from the rw wiki..

so, we start our adventure into these supposed Imagined Worlds on the bottom left side. our starter regions can be either WSKB, WSKA, or WRFA, depending on where we found our third encounter with Spinning Top.

taking a closer look... we can see that all these paths lead to WARF, aka, The Fucking Building. If you're lucky, you CAN end up in WRRA from WSKB, which gives you a good opportunity to escape this starting area and into WTDB, which would contain your first echo. but given how many paths lead to AR, i think most players end up finding themselves here. and hoo boy

this is definitely a region. personally, i think its a very daaaaaunting region to have so early on. its huge, for one. the platforming is tricky at times, for two. and there are some reasonable criticisms about the level design. heres two right off the bat:

i do think there was some thought put into it by the devs in terms of warp placement, however. from each of your starting points, i do think the level tries to guide you down the mountain, toward one of your two escape routes to WTDA (which gives you a tasty Spinning Top encounter), or to WSKD (a brief respite from TFB). if you look at one of the maps online, you can kinda trace a Theoretically Reasonable path that leads to the south end. The problem is... is that rain world doesnt always work like that. people like to find rooms! and its also just so fucking big.

getting lost IS part of rain world, and i think that is all well and good. but its just curious to me that a Rare region like WVWA, which in my experience is a cute little walk in the park by comparison, has only two possible ways to enter it naturally.

i think aether ridge could've been a later game region tbh. i know that doesnt mean... much.. when you can randomly warp by the time you get enough ripple, but if you're encountering ST enough beforehand, its possible you'll have access to the ripple float ability, which i think a lot of players would greatly appreciate in this region.

similarly, i think WARD and WARG have similar issues, but maybe less so, given that they require a bit more work to get to? again, i think WARF couldve been placed a bit later i suppose.

to put it simply, i think aether ridge ends up being this massive, spongey wall for a lot of people given its size, complexity and the fact thats all the starting regions connect into it. but hey, it was also my experience that once i escaped, i very quickly started seeing a lot of progress.

now whats a rain world post without some ponderings into the Lore. i do think it was probably an intentional choice to organize and place the region warps as they did.

when you look at how WBLA and WARD both connect to each other, and ALSO both connect to WSSR.. i find that interesting. the easiest case to make about these intentional connections is how WRSA connects to both WAUA and WORA. we can also point to WARB and WARC, for that matter. it raises the question as to why are organized in this way.. and on that, i have no clue. i just think its Neat.

[kanjeng-azfx]

𓇼𓏲*ੈ‧₊˚ OC INFORMATION 𓇼𓏲*ੈ‧₊˚

❝ I live my day as if it was the last, live my day as if there was no past! ❞

In the depths of the ocean's wide, profound abbys, a being dwells, in who essence is both depth and grace. Soft as the waves' whisper, yet the ocean's fierce power dwells within her. Ever-present, ever-changing, she ebbs and floes with the pulse of time, carrying the eternal history of the boundless spirit of the blue sea within her.

HER NAME IS...

Ardhiona (A firm and responsible spirit) Zhī (Wisdom and healing) Fúxiǎo (Daybreak approach of dawn)

Ardhiona (Zhī Fúxiăo)—the daughter of Nyi Roro Kidul or Goddess Kadita, the Queen of South Seas in Jawa Mythology—is a spirited young girl who seems to have a knack for getting into trouble, often for reasons that seem inexplicable. Even though she has a carefree demeanor and a tendency to lazy around, she posesses remarkable leadership skills that bubble to the surface when needed.

Despite her laid-back behavior, she takes her job as an idol seriously, thanks to the insistence of her mother. She got the charming personality, the stunning appearance, and most importantly, the beautiful, silky, raven hair that always caught everyone's eyes. That makes her the perfect candidate to do the job just right!

"WHO IS NYI RORO KIDUL?"

Nyi Roro Kidul (Goddess Kadita) is a supernatural being in Indonesian folklore, the Queen of the Southern Sea in Sundanese and Javanese mythology. Her position as the Phantom Queen of Java is a popular motif in folklore and mythology, as well as being associated with the beauty of Sundanese princesses. The queen could change shapes and appearance, as a beautiful young woman usually during a full moon, and appear as an old woman at other times. However, her true form is often illustrated as a mermaid. For further information!

RELATIONSHIPS!!

NYI RORO KIDUL—The Respected Mother

"Ayu (sweetie), the strongest things in life come from your heart, not your brain. The things we feel deep down in our hearts are often more important than what we think with our minds. Your emotions and your values are what guide you and shape who you are. You may not understand why you feel a certain way sometimes, but those feelings come from deep within your heart."

YOU ARE ENOUGH BY SLEEPING AT LAST STARTED PLAYING

Growing up, Ardhi's relationship with her mother was complicated. Her mother had been her everything as a child, but as she grew older, every small disagreement escalated into yelling matches, and Ardhi struggled to break the cycle. Especially when her mother was a highly respected figure, a queen in her own right. No one had explicitly told her to be exactly like her mother, but Ardhi could not shake the feeling that the expectations were there nonetheless. The invisible pressure weighed heavily on her shoulders, making her feel like she could never measure up to her mother's legacy. Secretly, Goddess Kadita recognized the struggles that came with growing up in the shadow of her legacy. She realized that Ardhi needed space to find her own path, free from expectations and societal pressures. So, she made the difficult decision to send Ardhi away from the kingdom, hoping that distance would allow her daughter to find her own identity and happiness. The separation broke her heart, but as a mother, she was determined to do whatever it took to make her daughter happy, even if it meant sacrificing her own desires... at least for a while.

SOUTHERN SEA'S CITIZEN—The Beloved Ones

"Sugeng Rawuh, Sekar Kedhaton." (Welcome home, Sekar Kedhaton)

WOULD THAT I BY HOZIER STARTED PLAYING

They love Ardhi very much—knowing her to be a kind, nice, and widely lovable person since she often serves as a valued and respected ruler, second only to her mother. However despite her positive reputation, they often find themselves hesitant or reluctant to approach or interact with her, likely due to her tense relationship with her mother—the people's queen. Goddess Kadita often grown tired of Ardhi, and the people know to keep their distance in order to avoid the queen's wrath. Still, the love and respect the people have for Ardhi remain strong, as they are aware of her good heart and dedication to her duties.

MK—The Childhood Friend

"Thanks, Dione! Maaannn... I don't know what I'll do without you."

BANG BANG BY K'NAAN & ADAM LEVINE STARTED PLAYING

MK; Her partner in crime, her loyal companion in all endeavors, her impulsive and carefree counterpart to her mischief, her Clyde to her Bonnie. However, he is also the steadfast support she can always rely on. Their friendship dates back to their childhood days, and the bond between them has only strengthened over time, pushing each other to new heights while keeping each other in check. Even when life gets busy and hectic, they always find time for each other, making sure to support and encourage each other through thick and thin. Truly, they are epitome of unpredictability and chaotic energy, nothing can stand in their way.

P.S. He is totally her weakness.

MEI—The Gossip Girl

"Ari. Ari! ARI! Have you seen this news?! It is ridiculous!"

BOOM CLAP BY CHARLI XCX STARTED PLAYING

To put it simply, she is Ardhi's gossip girl, her forever best friend, her ride-or-die in any situation, the person who knows all Ardhi's secrets and doesn't hesitate to share her own. She is also the only person who truly understands Ardhi's experiences as a public figure, as she herself has firsthand knowledge of the overwhelming demands and constant public scrutiny that comes with being in the limelight. Whether the two of them gossiping about the latest celebrity news or tackling the pressures of fame and fortune, she can always count on Mei to offer a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on, making her an irreplaceable part of her life.

RED SON—The Fire

"What are you doing here, Aqua?!"

I LOVE IT BY ICONA POP & CHARLI XCX STARTED PLAYING

He have a unique bond with her that is built on a foundation of intense competition and rivalry. Determined to prove that they are the best at everything, they constantly bicker and send threats back and forth—starting off on a rocky note. They may clash and butt heads all the time, however despite their differences (literally fire and water), they are able to put aside that problem and work as a team when it comes to strategizing and planning.

MONKIE KIDS TEAM—The Chosen Family

"Phft-!! You ready to ride, Splashy?"

RIBS BY LORDE STARTED PLAYING

This group of friends share a strong bond that is built on a foundation of trust, respect, and mutual support—a strong bond of friendship that makes everyone feel like family. They all share a lot of laughs, inside jokes, and memories that no one else would understand. Their gatherings even filled with laughter and warmth. No one would want to leave once they felt that kind of feeling. Even if they're different in personality, interests, and experiences, they have managed to come together to form genuine connections with one another. They create a space where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued, and where they can all be themselves without fear of judgment. Honestly, they genuinely care and concern for each other, even often prioritize each other's well-being above all else.

By the way, they refer to her as 'Splashy' because she has a tendency to get splashed by marine creatures during their visits to the zoo.

MACAQUE & MONKEY KING—The Celestial Simians

"Woah! It's just me, Breezy." "It's been awhile, Bree. How's the kid doing?"

PUNK TACTICS BY JOEY VALENCE & BRAE STARTED PLAYING

The two monkeys initially considered Ardhi to be an insignificant figure, perhaps just a pawn in MK's journey of character development. But as time went on, they began to realized that Ardhi was no ordinary person. They knew she held a hidden importance that they had not yet fully understood even if she does not fit into the traditional Chinese legendary characters they were familiar with. Ardhiona was an anomaly, someone who defied categorization and held secrets yet to be revealed. That is why Macaque and Monkey King couldn't help but feel a sense of slight intimidation when it comes to Ardhi. Her origins and who she was remained a mystery to them, but one thing was clear : She was a powerful figure whose presence of strength could be felt from miles away. Their lack of knowledge about her only made their uneasiness grow.

POWERS AND ABILITIES

While Goddess Kadita has the power to control the vast oceans and even manipulate weather patterns, Ardhiona's abilities are more travel-friendly. Unlike her mother, who is tied to the sea, she takes her powers with her wherever she goes. Her abilities are designed for nimbleness and adaptability, rather than grandiosity.

Rough Waves

The power to conjure formidable oceanic waves. This ability is not limited to generating a single wave for targeted direction. She can actually manipulate the very fabric of water itself, unleashing a tidal surge that erupts from the ground with such force it can ripple outwards in all directions.

Marine Whisperer

The uncanny ability to communicate with all forms of marine life—effortlessly understand their needs, emotions, and behaviors. Unfortunately, whenever she attempts to communicate with multiple sea creatures at once, the mental strain can be overwhelming. The sheer number and intensity of their thoughts and emotions can create a sensory overload, making it nearly impossible for her to maintain focus and clarity of thought. This sensory overload can not only cause headaches and fatigue, but can also lead to debilitating migraines, dizziness, and even temporary loss of consciousness. That's why she have to limit the number of creatures she communicates with simultaneously to prevent overexertion.

Hydrophilic Lungs

Simple! The capability to breathe comfortably underwater, free from the limitations of traditional breathing apparatus.

Heart of the Sea

The unique ability to harness water's natural healing properties. By manipulating the liquid's molecular structure (she could control over liquid forms, including blood), she can infuse it with rejuvenating energy, creating a potent healing force to specific area where rejuvenation is required—repairing tissues, bones, organs, and even neutralizing toxins or poisons within the circulatory system. The point is, she have the power to restore and revitalize, radiating a soothing energy that instills a sense of tranquility.

Ocean Ode

The power to summon and control water to form a surfboard-like structure that glides effortlessly across land or water. She can command this aquatic board to carry her at great speeds, allowing her to traverse vast distances swiftly and efficiently. Unfortunately, she would need a high level of balance and coordination to ride it. Riding it requires precise control and fluid movements, as even the slightest imbalance can disrupt its delicate equilibrium. Without it, she may risk falling off or losing control of it, which could lead to accidents or injuries. In order to master this power, Ardhi must hone her balancing abilities and learn to navigate it with graceful precision, seamlessly maneuvering it at high speeds without losing her composure or control.

Strategic Positioning

Her skills in martial arts are diverse and extensive, encompassing a range of techniques and styles, especially in Pencak Silat (an Indonesian martial art known for its practicality and effectiveness in self-defense). She also possesses impressive acrobatics skills, enabling her to move with fluid-like flexibility since she frequently enhanced her movements with her water-power and allowing her to effortlessly transition between offensive and defensive maneuvers. Additionally, she has a natural affinity for wielding blades, particularly the Keris, a traditional Indonesian dagger that holds personal significance to her.

❝ Sarvesam nusantarajananam krte... ❞

𓇼 ⋆.˚ 𓆉 𓆝 𓆡⋆.˚ 𓇼

THE GUARDIAN FROM NUSANTARA IS HERE

𓇼 ⋆.˚ 𓆉 𓆝 𓆡⋆.˚ 𓇼

[whynotjohnlock]

Doctor x ADHD reader

^ My mental state at any given time when anyone asks about what happened yesterday.

Warnings: fluff, It might be a tad long, Grammar mistakes, you may feel slightly offended if you're a nerotipical person, the author wrote this because they didn't want to sleep and needed comfort.

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You'd forgotten something again. Was it about your job? Your family? Your friends you hadn't kept up with because you had misremembered the dates for? That one hyper fixation that you had today?

Nothing matched. Your brain was screaming at you for the time you wasted rethinking about what you had forgotten; but nothing came to mind.

A normal day then.

Then, as a distraction from your thoghts a high tech laser blaster thing punched through a brick wall and you started running for your life. Again.

There were alien pepper shaker robots with plungers. Why where they just repeating themselves over and over? Was that just how they spoke, or was there more to it? Was it nessasary to the way they shot lasers?

"Exterminate! Exterminate!" A laser jolted and swished right next to you.

"Right, I have to run."

And run.

And run.

And run. Except, now you had to not crash onto the person-

To late.

"Oh, hello humans! Is this your way of saying hello? Did I miss a decade?"

You reluctanly graped the strange man's hand. You were not fazed by the oddness in the queston; your thoghts were stranger. "I don't think so. It's just the fact that there are alien pepper shakers with plungers after us."

The man's face darkened, his youthful peesona flown out the window. "Where?"

You knew that the police would be of no help and the sadness in this man's eyes seemed to be familiar. "Can you help us if I tell you?"

"Short answer: Most likely."

"Now witch way?"

The question prompted eternal panic. Witch way was left? You couldn't remember. Were you facing north or south? You couldn't just point in a direction, because you had run in a extremely non-linear way.

Words had never been an accurate source of communication for you. Why were you this way? Well, you knew why; you had been diagnosed with ADHD, but that didn't answer your question. Why did you always forget the things you wanted to remember most? The strange man looked rather inpatient at your mental sputtering. You had to do something! So, you did the only thing you could think of at the time. Quickly you grabbed his outstretched hand and ran, guiding him though the chaotic path you had taken.

Your mind had not managed to retain much running for your life, but your feet did.

 ...Pass the blue house. 

...Turning 90 degrees at the broken stop sign. 

...Jaywalking around the stopped cars in the street.

...Turning again after the nameless black dog.

...Though a corporate building.

…And to the familiar building with the tin tanks.

your hand still fully clasped with this stranger you had just met, you spoke in between panting and gasping for air. "This is it. These are the alien metal tank creatures."

As if on cue, the screams not even across the blook started up again and an army of daleks (Not that you knew what they were called at the time) turned into view.

The madman lurched forward in outrage much like a predator looming in on their prey. He was unnerving. "Alright listen up! I am the Doctor, and you are the daleks! You have no right to this world, and It’s protected by none other than me. And you have made a grave mistake messing with me when I don’t have a companion, or anyone to holding me back. Leave before I run out of mercy."

"THE DOCTOR IS UNARMED. WE WILL DO NO SUCH THING."

EXTERMINATE!

A laser shot from the thingy that would have hit the silly man instead wiped by him as I pulled him into a run again.

Hiding behind a dumpster in an abandoned alley the Doctor fiddled around with a metal glowy stick and welded something together from his pockets quickly. "What are you doing?"

"No time to explain, get me some sort of electrical circuit board!"

"Will my phone work?"

Wordlessly the Doctor takes my phone, prys it from it's cashing, snaps it in half, and conects it to a very peculiar looking device.

EXTERMINATE!

The Daleks find us again but this time we don't run. The Doctor chucks the machine at the invasion party they aim towards us ready to end us.

EXTER-

The Doctor aims his tech stick toward the sky causing his device to activate. The result is instantaneous. Every dalek that was in front of us and firing ends up blowing up in several malformed chunks.

More daleks screech out words as they approach us. "EXPLAIN! EXPLAIN!"

"Ha! I've rerouted the your primary weapon to your self-distruct sequence by changing the commands signals! The doctor is never helpless unarmed, you lot should know that by now."

"RETREAT! RETREAT!"

The Daleks start to be enveloped by an otherworldly white glow and disappear all at once.

The mad man seems to return to an upbeat face and seems to slip his mask back on seamlessly as if the darkness never touched his eyes. He looked again to be a harmless Nerodiverrgent, clumsy and meek as if he hadn't just felled a armada of aliens ready to destroy the earth. he muttered under his breath about inter-galactic law, blissfully unaware of all the odd looks his direction who believed him insane.

It reminded you of the mask you had to put up for all the "Normal" people in your life. How many times had you stopped being every thing you were just for a brief connection?

"Hello, I think introductions are in order! what did you say your name was?"

You plunged back into the real world from your thoghts. "Y/N."

"Well, Y/N, you seem awfully calm considering your planet was just invaded."

"I could say the same thing about you. Also how did you do all that? Are you even human?"

"I'm the Doctor." The man enthusiasticly spoke as if that explained the anomalys of the day.

"Is the your last name or did you just have mean parents that named you Doctor?"

"I'm not human, and it's common for my species to have titles we choose for names."

"Right. I suppose another alien species isn't the weirdest thing that's happened today."

The Doctor broke out into a brilliant little grin. And reached into his coat pocket to grab a little black wallet thing. "Hold on I want to see if I'm right real quick. What's on this paper?"

"Um, It's blank?" I don't think I was catching whatever the silly man wanted me to see.

"You are clever! I knew it! And I do need a companion after...." The Doctor pauses in sorrow and pain.

"Y/N, how would you like to come with me?"

"Um, do you travel or something?"

"Oh, I forgot to mention it, haven't I? I go to lots and lots of different places and meet all sorts of aliens all the time. I hope you know most of them aren't like the Daleks. Millions of planets and galaxys and pulsars and planets up in the sky, one day I'll see them all."

It took a while to comprehend what silly man had just said. You adored the stars. And now this man you'd just met had really just asked you to go with him to see and go to places humans wouldn't go for maybe billions of years!? To boldy go were no one has gone before? (I'm an unapologetically ing references and I'm not sorry.) Was this heaven? Had you died in the Dalek attack?

"That sounds utterly fantastic! You're sure you want someone like me?"

"What are you talking about? You just saved my life and were fearless in the face of a world ending threat. If course I want someone like you."

"I just, usually people don't like the way I think."

The Doctor almost seemed offended. "Do I look like a usual person?"

"Good point."

I looked down in slight embarrassment for bringing it up.

"Hey look at me." The Doctor softly grabbed my shoulder and I tilted my face up to meet his sincere eyes.

"You know what I've found in my nine hundred years of life? I found out the people who get called Quiet or shy have the most interesting thoughts. I found out that the loneliest people end up being the kindest, that the people with disabilities have so much more grit and determination than the people that don't, that the people called slow are the most brilliant when they're done analyzing. that the so called freaks and weirdos of the world are twice as clever and twice as kind."

"Do you know why?" I was near tears and shook my head.

"Because people like you and me have to work twice as hard only to get half as far. We have strength, far beyond that the average eye can see because we're trying to make up for faults by working twice as hard. Our struggles make us more resilient, more creative, and better people. We take it apon ourselves to attempt to appear normal in an attempt to make connections, when in really they should be the ones understanding us."

"You humans are so silly we it comes to different ways of thinking. On gallifrey, you'd be celebrated, not punished for what you call a quote 'disorder'."

I hugged him. I hugged him harder and tighter than any stranger I'd ever hugged before.

Tears. Happy tears flew down my cheek. I loved this stranger, not for his looks or wacky demeanor.

But because there is that silly man's arms I knew again what it felt like to be understood.

We were standing in a world of unknowns, at top a street that had just been invaded but I knew one thing:

"I want to travel with you, Doctor."

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A/N: I'm sorry if you personally don't feel represented in the way I wrote (Y/N) having ADHD and ADD, but I want you to know that I'm only trying to share my experiences as I myself have been diagnosed. I don't want to shame anyone that shares my experiences; just bring them into the light.