#The way takes like these were 100% predictable

[egophiliac]

the lovers, reversed

(aka I'm still freaking out about Jou)

[familyagrestefanblog]

Do people even know what the word "cheating" means? All that's theoretically required here is Adrien having a conversation with Marinette, asking if she's bothered by him using an affectionate nickname for a friend he holds very dear. A nickname that btw isn't at all inherently of romantic nature. "Lady" is part of Ladybug's NAME.

And concidering that Marinette herself is still calling Chat Noir "mon Chaton" and other cute nicknames I think Marinette would not even think of counting it as "cheating". Or at least, if she isn't a whole hypocrite and red flag romantic partner where SHE can do something but takes offense when her significant other does it too.

Do you think that Chat Noir still calling Ladybug m'lady counts as him cheating on Marinette?

No, I think it just means he's a dork 😂😂

[inbabylontheywept]

Soviet Birds.

The secret facility that I work in has holes in the ceiling. We don't know how to get them fixed.

We tried asking the government to fix it, once. We told them that the holes in the older parts of the facility had gotten large enough to fit birds through, and that birds were getting through, and that, perhaps, a Soviet Spy could fit through as well.

After all, it is well known that Soviet Spies and pigeons are approximately the same diameter.

Our hope was that that this vague and nonsensical threat would put a little fire under Uncle Sam's feet. If the fed couldn't be bothered to give a shit about the giant gaping holes in the roof of our facility, perhaps they could be persuaded to give a shit about... Soviet Spies.

This attempt at manipulation 100% blew up in our faces.

See, the government does not need to be persuaded to give a shit about Soviet Spies. It still wakes up most nights, drenched in cold sweat, terrified and confident that a Soviet Spy is hiding in their nightstand. If it sees a rock on the ground, it flips it over, pistol drawn, ready to shoot the Soviet Spy it fully expects to slither out from underneath. Which is to say: The government is crazy. So when we dropped those two words - inflitration risk - in the repair request, they came in guns-a-blazin'.

Does that mean that they fixed the roof? Of course not. Don't be stupid. No, instead of performing basic maintenance, they installed a state of the art alarm system throughout the facility - lasers, sonar, the works - and told us to always be on the guard. Because of the roof holes.

Then they left.

So now we had an extremely good alarm system... and birds. Which have combined in incredibly obvious and predictable ways to produce an unending fountain of problems.

For Example: About once a month, someone gets called in by the local airforce dispatch because AAAAAAAAAAA a Spy is in the Rad Lab! We're all gonna die! Except every time, it's a bird. And I get why we have to check, but every time, the dispatcher is panicked and the person going out has to be like listen, listen: It's a bird. It's always a bird. It's been a bird every month for the last fifteen years. It will be a bird next month. All this stress? Bad for your heart.

Second Example: Sometimes, birds get in while we're actually working. And when it's in the morning, you know, it's a nuisance, and it stops testing (we are not going to risk irradiating a bird) but it's not an all-hands-on-deck situation because it doesn't take ten hours to get a bird out. But surprisingly often, the bird gets in riiiiight at closing time, and in that situation, everyone goes feral because nobody can leave until the alarm is set, and we cannot set the alarm while the bird is there, because the bird would immediately trigger it and then we'd have to stay another 4 hours to confirm that it was not a Soviet Bird.

So in order to go home, everyone's top priority is Get That Bird. And we have a system for it.

Step 1: The test stands tend to be located in rooms with 30+ foot ceilings. We can't catch birds in places like that - so we have to lure the bird into the relatively low ceilinged (8 feet only) upper offices.

We do this by turning all the lights off in the test rooms, then putting floodlights by the exits. I don't know why this works - some kind of evolutionary brain fragment shared by both Bugs and Birds - but work it does. The birds almost always follow after the lights. From there, it’s just two guys moving the floodlight and a third guy to turn off the lights.

Step 2: Everyone else has been waiting for this step. There is this long stairway up from the basement level into the offices, and in the final stage, the floodlights are brought to the base of the stairwell to bring the bird up. At the top of the steps there will be a group of tennish people, waiting for the signal. The light guys will set up the final transfer, everyone will tense, and then, swish...a bird will flit up the stairs and into the offices.

It's like watching werewolves on a full moon. Before the bird cometh, we are engineers. Nerds. Pale and skinny things, trembling under the fluorescent lights. After the bird, we are beasts. Feral, gnawing things, glowing under the orange sunrise of the 70's halogen floodlights.

And like all beasts, we cannot help but give chase.

Step 3: The were-engineers begin the hunt. The goal at the start is not really to catch the bird - just exhaust it. So the pack simply does not relent. Because the stakes are going home on time, the group is basically given free reign to go anywhere in the building. If someone's door is open, and the bird goes inside, they're going to have to deal with ten sweaty panting maniacs leaping around their office. They don't get to say that they're busy, or remark on how all this movement is a terrible distraction. They are allowed to sit in silence during the chaos, and perhaps thank the war party for chasing the bird while they sat comfortably on their ass. This has been explained several times, and it will continue to be explained until cooperation is achieved.

Anyway.

The chase can go on for quite some time. Sometimes, the bird will get tired and find a crevice to hide in, where it can then be reached through standard cornered-bird catching techniques.

Other times, it will slow down enough that someone can actually yoink it out of the air. But this will go on until someone catches the bird and triggers Step 4.

Step 4: The Finale. This is the get-the-bird-out-of-the-building stage, and it requires someone to adopt a specific role: To Become the Sacrificial Vessel of Bird Removal.

This job is both coveted and feared. It's coveted, because holding a wild bird in one's hands is a precious thing. To feel how small, and fragile, and scared it is, only to free it from the building? That is what it's like to be a benevolent God. But the cost! Oh, the cost. The entire time the Vessel is in motion, the bird will be biting the hell out of their fingers. And I cannot emphasize enough just how painful bird bites are. Their entire face is a set of needle posed pliers, and they know tricks the even the cartels haven't figured out yet. So there's always a little hubbub about who shall be The Vessel while onlookers, stranded outside The Office of Bird Capture, can only look on. Quiet arguments and pleas are heard, little fragments of fear and pride and glory trickling out of room like the silver dust left behind in a bag of well shook quarters. The sound of concensus is silence, and the argument will go on until that's all that's left. And then, from the darkness of the final office, the chosen sacrifice will step forward: Hands gently cupped, tears streaming down their face, fingers trembling from the pain of the ongoing bird chomps.

And this scene is what organizes people. Not leadership, not truly. No one can think and coordinate a crowd while their fingers are being attacked with a combination nutcracker/ear piercer. But the crowd sees the suffering of their annointed, and it is driven to do everything poossible to make the process flow. People instinctively flair out, finding the fastest path outside. Doors are held open. Paths are cleared. Someone, somehow, always knows the way forward and can describe it to the sufferer. Left, left, forward. Corner closet. Yep, there's a hall in there. Forward. Two-hundred more feet man, you're doing great. Just hold it together a little longer. You're killing it.

Then the final door swings open, and the bird flees out into what remains of daylight. And yet, even here, the deed is not yet done. I cannot explain it in words, but the crowd that helped is never content until they can see and speak on the Bird Vessel's wounds. They all have to pull the fingers back and see what was given. Estimate the price: One day to get better - No, three - No, a week! Are you blind? Do you see that blood blister? -Yeah, that's not going away anytime soon - Damn, can you believe how feisty those things are? Like wolves without teeth.

(They cannot help but touch as they go. It has always been this way. Even Thomas was not content until he felt the wounds in Christ's hands.)

Only when the last of the helpers has seen, and commented, and commended, will the engineers scatter. It is their return from the underworld that announces to the sun living surface dwellers that they too can go home. (@somerunner tolja it needed to be a post.)

[cheapshrimpysheep]

Hello! For the christmas celeb request, may i request a bullet hc of the twst characters (1st years preferably and anyone else u want) reacting to you kissing them on the cheek cause both of you were under a mistletoe and immediately running away afterwards? Like pre-relationship and it was almost instinctive for u but you couldn't bear to see their reaction jfjsjfjsjjs thank u so much !!!

COMMENTS: Hi. I liked the idea! I thought it was really cute. ❤️ And since it's something short I made it for all the characters. And as a bonus I also made it for Rollo. ☺️

Hope you and all enjoy it. 💋

CHARACTERS: All NRC Students (Ortho is platonic) + Rollo

TAGS: Fluff; GN Reader; Headcanons

WORD COUNT: An average of 100 words per character. 

Context: You told them a little about Christmas and the tradition of giving someone a kiss when the two people were both under the mistletoe.

I don't believe Christmas exists in Twisted Wonderland, so this is a tradition of yours. Some of the boys have been spreading sprigs of mistletoe around in the hopes that this will happen and you will give them a kiss.

This is their reaction when you kiss them on the cheek out of nowhere and run away.

Riddle almost freezes as he blushes. He needs a minute to process what just happened.

When he finally looks around, astonished and confused, he can't find you anymore.

He looks up, sees the mistletoe and remembers what you told them about it.

He concludes that the best thing to do (and what he wants to do) would be to kiss you back when you were under the mistletoe again. 

So he will try to be close to you and attentive for when this happens.

And when it does, he will walk up to you with a smile, but blushing slightly, and give you a sweet surprise kiss on the cheek, like you did to him.

“You were under the mistletoe.” He smiles. “Rules must be followed accordingly.” He gives you one last loving look and continues on his way.

Ace jumps immediately! And blushes a little.

You run away while he's trying to ask what was going on.

“Oh, no you won't!” He doesn't waste time chasing after you.

When he reaches you, he grabs you in a hug.

“Did you think you could get away without revenge?” And he kisses your cheek back.

Deuce half jumps, half stands petrified in confusion.

He blushes and sees you running away. “Wait! What was that? (Y/N)!”

He has no idea whether to follow you or just stand there. And he is struggling with this decision.

When he finally realizes that there was mistletoe over the two of you, he decides to try to do the same and return your kiss.

And when he does, it will be a kiss like yours, quick, shy and he will run away.

Cater tried to grab you before you could run away, but he was unsuccessful. However, he didn't run after you.

He was so sad to see you leave after that sweet kiss.

“Aww, why are the cutest ones always the shy ones?”

He will try to find you to return the kiss.

And when he does, it will be a casual but loving kiss. He will wink at you and walk away.

Trey will look at you right after the kiss and see you running away.

He just chuckles amusedly. But he'll be more attentive so he can be the one to kiss you back next time.

And when he does, it will be when you least expect it. He will simply walk past you, minding his own business, stopping to kiss your cheek and moving on as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

Leona can predict your steps, herbivore. Do you really think you could surprise him?

As soon as you turn to try to run away, he grabs you and pulls you back to him.

He gives you a lazy but loving kiss on the cheek and only then does he let you go.

He will enjoy watching your reaction with a smirk on his face.

If you stood there blushing, he'll say: “What? The herbivore wanted to play and can't even handle a counter-attack?”

Jack jumps and looks at you in amazement as you run away.

It takes a few seconds for him to process what happened.

But as soon as he notices the mistletoe above him, he realizes what happened and runs after you by instinct.

When he reaches you, he stands in front of you and cushion the shock.

He starts to blush when he realizes he's practically hugging you and lets you go.

“I... I just want to pay you back.” He says as his tail wags. He kisses you on the cheek and runs away like you did to him.

“Oi! Wait a minute!” Ruggie immediately runs after you without thinking.

As soon as he reaches you he grabs you in a hug.

“Shye hee hee. Do you really think you'll stop me from retaliating your attack by trying to run away from me?”

He kisses you on the cheek affectionately.

Azul is absolutely shocked! And confused. He sees you running away with a perplexed and blushing face.

Only then does he look up and see the mistletoe. “Damn it, now I'm in debt.” He never liked a debt so much.

He'll kiss you back even if he has to put a sprig of mistletoe right on the door of the Mostro Lounge VIP room.

And when he manages to attract you to where he wants you: “So, it seems you have made me indebted to you. Something dangerously bold, I must warn you. Fortunately I like to be merciful to you.” He kisses your cheek as quickly as you kissed his. “The deal is fulfilled.”

Jade simply looks at you running away with his eyebrows raised in surprise.

After realizing that it was because there was a sprig of mistletoe above the two of you, he chuckles.

He will follow you stealthily to pay you back in kind.

He will continue to follow and observe you until he finds the perfect and most fun opportunity.

And when that happens, he'll first enjoy watching you getting flustered and then give you a kiss on the cheek with the same intensity as yours and leave with a smile.

“Hm?” Floyd will look curiously at you running away.

And if he was in a bad mood, you just cheered him up.

He doesn't even care if it was because of the mistletoe. Now he wants to play tag with you.

He will follow you and wait for your guard to be down so he can surprise you with a hug.

“Bah~!” He kisses your cheek playfully. “This was fun. Let's play again!”

Kalim is surprised and when he looks at you he sees you running away.

He smiles very happily at your gesture, but he’s confused.

Only then does he look up and realize that you were under the mistletoe.

“Oh! I should try to do the same to them and return the kiss.”

The problem is that he will eventually forget to do it.

It's only when he meets you again and happens to be the one who sees the mistletoe above you first that he remembers: “Oh, yeah! I almost forgot. There's something I want to give you.” And he kisses your cheek playfully, but affectionately.

Jamil noticed you approaching, but since it was you he let it go.

However, he wasn't expecting to receive a kiss. So he quickly looks at you in shock and sees you running away as he blushes.

He puts his hood up to hide his face, and only then does he look up and see the mistletoe. And now he wants to pay you back.

He will mentally record all the places he sees where mistletoe is placed. And when he sees you near one he will find a way to put you where he wants you.

And when that happens: “Ah, (Y/N). I was looking for you. I need to give you something.” He kisses your cheek, says goodbye to you and continues on his way with a smirk on his face.

Did you just kiss Vil Schoenheit on the cheek? Without formal permission?! How bold! How daring!

He sees you running away with a mix of amazement and shock on his face. And with that hand on his chest like ‘Excuse you?’

The fact that he knows it was because of the mistletoe above you doesn't change the fact that he believes an act like that cannot go unpunished.

The next time he meets you: “You have no idea how lucky you are that what you did to me wasn't witnessed by someone who could sell it as scandalous gossip.” He tells you annoyed. Then he sighs. “You need to be more careful.” He smiles smugly. “And you need to make it up to me.”

He makes you agree to carry all his bags the next time he goes shopping.

“Oh, and one last thing.” He says, still looking angry, but then he kisses your cheek in a skillfully affectionate way. “You were under the mistletoe, dear.” He smiles and goes on his way.

“Wha?!” Epel gets startled and says something in his dialect before looking at you and seeing you running away. “What in tarnation was that?!” He blushes a lot.

He looks around trying to understand what just happened until he sees the sprig of mistletoe above him. This only makes him blush even more.

He doesn't really know what to do about it, but he knows he really wants to kiss you back.

However, it is fate (or Rook) that makes you meet again under the mistletoe.

And this time he is the first to realize it and quickly but passionately gives you a kiss on the cheek and runs away like you did with him.

Rook looks at you with one of the biggest smiles on his face, but sees you running away. “Oh non, Trickster. Why so shy?” He says with pity, but then he smiles with that hunter's look. “This way you leave me no choice but to go after you.”

And that's what he does, carefree and having fun.

He stalks you until he finds the perfect spot. Where the two of you will be completely alone and isolated.

You are startled by an arrow sticking out of a tree above you, with a sprig of mistletoe on the tip. And then by his voice.

“Aw, Trickster.” He says in a velvety voice and approaches you. “You left before I could thank you for the beautiful gesture. I was so happy to be able to feel your lips on my skin. Allow me to repay you.” He comes very close and kisses your cheek slowly and passionately.

Idia jumps and gives that high-pitched scream of his. He gapes at you as you run away. “YOU are the one who is running away? I'M THE ONE WHO WANTS TO HIDE!” his hair almost exploded in pink.

And that's what he does: he hides in his room for the rest of the day. Or almost, if it weren't for Ortho taking him out of there and convincing him to do the same to you with his help.

It takes a long time to convince him, but the two end up forming a plan.

They will lure you to a strategic point in Ignihyde where the two of you will be isolated from other people.

And Idia will appear out of nowhere behind you with that evil smile. “Very cowardly of you to hit and run. I thought you were braver, but it looks like I would lose that bet.”

Even though the tips of his hair are pink, he feels confident being alone with you and seeing you flustered as well.

He comes closer and gives you a cute kiss on the cheek. “There, we're even.” He turns around and practically runs away from you.

It was just a platonic kiss, so you didn't feel the need to run away. It was like kissing a little brother.

Ortho looks at you smiling with his eyes.

“Oh, this Gear doesn't allow me to return a kiss. Can I give you a hug instead (Y/N)?”

You just made Malleus fall in love with you (again).

He sees you running away, which makes him confused.

He didn't realize there was mistletoe all over you and that doesn't interest him either. Only you interest him.

He doesn't need to follow you, he transports himself to where you are.

“Why did you run away? Is that part of your tradition?” He asks a little sadly.

You will have to admit that you were embarrassed because you were afraid of his reaction and he will listen to you.

“Afraid?! Did you think I would punish you for this?” Now he is sad and worried.

You explain that you were just afraid he wouldn't like it because he might not like you back. And he laughs heartily.

“You needn't to worry about that, Child of Man. I can assure you that the feelings are mutual. Which makes me conclude that I should return the kiss.”

He kisses you on the cheek gently. And after that... he won't leave your side for the rest of the day.

You probably did it while Silver was sleeping, so you end up waking him up with your kiss. (the irony)

He looks at you confused as he has just woken up and sees you running away.

He is unsure whether you were part of his dream or not.

So when you meet again he doesn't talk about it.

But a little bird appears above you holding a sprig of mistletoe in its beak.

He ends up remembering the tradition you mentioned and asks if he could give you a kiss.

You accept and he kisses you softly on the cheek.

Sebek almost goes into a defensive position, but stops himself for knowing that it was you.

He sees you running away and for a second he is undecided whether to follow you or not. He ends up not following you because it wasn't an attack.

He will deny with all his might that he was blushing.

However, he feels he owes you the same in return, or that he must pay you back in kind.

The next time he sees you and you happen to be walking under another mistletoe he will shout: “HUMAN!” and will walk decisively towards you.

“You have a lot of nerve to do what you did and run away. At least stay and deal with the consequences properly!”

He quickly kisses you on the cheek with extreme affection and then straightens up while blushing.

“Here! The consequences of your actions.” He turns and walks away with every muscle tense.

You didn't surprise Lilia, but he pretended you did.

He lets you kiss his cheek and watches you run away, amused.

“Khee hee hee. Ah, shy youth, it's so cute. I should return the gesture.”

He will follow you until he finds the best opportunity.

He will appear right next to you, hovering upside down and give you a sweet kiss on the cheek as a surprise.

He will laugh in amusement at your reaction.

“Next time we're under the mistletoe, it'll be your turn. Khee hee.”

Rolo looks at you and freezes in that position, following you with a wide-eyed gaze.

It takes him a second to realize he's blushing a little and hide his face with his handkerchief.

“What rude impudence!” He says to himself, irritated that he liked it. “Forcing me to participate in such a ridiculous tradition. They should be punished for such disrespect.”

He won't try to kiss you back. Instead he will avoid you as much as possible. He doesn't want you to make him feel that way again. It's not... appropriate.

If you dropped in here out of the blue and want to read more from me, you can find it in my pinned post: INDEX

[ms-demeanor]

On insurance: I still live with my parents and don't know a lot yet about the sorts of things adults usually have to spend money on. I've always been skeptical of things like insurance and credit cards because it seems to me they wouldn't be selling that if they didn't expect to make money from it. I talked to my cousin a while ago about credit cards and basically came to the conclusion that they do that because they're betting on the customer getting sloppy and letting their debts stack up, and the way you beat that and get money from credit card companies is just by being careful.

I'm a little more confused about insurance though because it seems much more straightforwardly like a gamble they will simply not take if it won't pay off for them. Like, you don't go to a casino because every game they play at a casino is one they've done the math on and have determined that statistically most people will lose money on most of the time. Is insurance not kinda the same? Where they estimate the risk and then charge you an amount calculated to make sure it probably won't be worth it for you?

I know if you have a car you legally need car insurance so everyone knows you can pay for another car if you crash into someone, and I gather that here in the US at least health insurance companies have some kinda deal with hospitals so that the prices go down or something, and there's a reason I don't fully understand why not having health insurance is Really Bad. But we get to pet insurance, or like when I buy a concert ticket and it offers ticket insurance in case I can't make it to the show, and surely if they thought they were gonna lose money on that they just wouldn't sell it, right? Or they'd raise the price of it until it became worth the risk that something bad actually will happen? Wouldn't it only be worth it to buy insurance if you know something the insurance company doesn't?

So the deal is that most people don't use their insurance much, and often insurance companies will incentivize doing things that will make you use your insurance less.

So, for example, you can get a discount on car insurance if you have multiple cars because people who insure multiple cars are more likely to be responsible drivers (the ability to pay for multiple cars stands in as a representation of responsibility here). The longer you go without an accident, the lower your premiums get because that means that you are not costing your insurance company anything but you are paying into the system. The car insurance company's goal is to have the most responsible, safest drivers who never get into car accidents because they can predict (roughly) how much they're going to have to pay out to their customers and they want the number they pay out to be lower than what's paid in. So they try to discourage irresponsible drivers by raising their rates and encourage responsible drivers by giving them discounts.

Health insurance companies often do the same thing: I recently got a gift card from my health insurance company because I had a visit from a nurse who interviewed me about my overall health and made sure I had stable blood pressure and access to medications. It is literally cheaper for my insurance company to give me a $100 giftcard and hire a nurse to visit me than it is for me to go to my doctor's office a couple of times, so they try to make sure that their customers are getting preventative care and are seeing inexpensive medical professionals regularly so that they don't have to suddenly see very expensive professionals after a long time without care.

Insurance in the US has many, many, many problems and should be replaced with socialized healthcare for a huge number of reasons but right now, because it is an insurance-based system, you need to have insurance.

We're going to use Large Bastard as an example.

Large Bastard had insurance when he had his heart attack and when he needed multiple organs transplanted. He didn't *want* to be paying for insurance, because he thought he was healthy enough to get by, but I insisted. His premium is four hundred dollars a month, and his out of pocket maximum is eight thousand dollars a year. That means that every year, he pays about $5000 whether he uses his insurance or not, and if he DOES need to use the insurance, he pays the first $8k worth of care, so every year his insurance has the possibility of costing him thirteen thousand dollars.

The bill for his bypass surgery was a quarter million dollars.

The bill for his transplant was over one and a half million dollars.

His medication each month is around six hundred dollars. He needs to have multiple biopsies - which are surgeries - each year, and each one costs about twenty thousand dollars.

Without health insurance, he would very likely be dead, or we would be *even more* incapable of paying for his healthcare than we are right now. He almost ditched his insurance because he was a healthy-seeming 40-year-old and he didn't think he'd get sick. And then he proceeded to be the sickest human being I've ever known personally who did not actually die.

Health insurance costs a lot of money. It costs less money for people who are young and who are expected to be healthy. But the thing is, everybody pays into health insurance, and very, very few people end up using as much money for their medical expenses as Large Bastard did. There are a few thousand transplants in the US ever year, but there are hundreds of millions of people paying for insurance.

This ends up balancing out (sort of) so that people who pay for insurance get a much lower cost on care if they need it, hospitals get paid for the care they provide, and the insurance company makes enough money to continue to exist. Part of the reason that people don't like this scheme is because "insurance company" could feasibly be replaced by "government" and it would cost less and provide a better standard of care, but again, with things as they are now, you need to have insurance. Insurance companies are large entities that are able to negotiate down costs with the providers they work with, you are not. If you get hit by a car you may be able to get your medical bills significantly reduced through a number of means, but you're very unlikely to get your bills lower than the cost of insurance and a copay.

Because of the Affordable Care Act, which is flawed but which did a LOT of good, medical insurance companies cannot refuse to treat you because of preexisting conditions and also cannot jack up your premiums to intolerable rates - since Large Bastard got sick, he has had the standard price increases you'd expect from aging, but nothing like the gouging you might expect from an insurance company deciding you're not worth it.

Pet insurance works on the same model. Millions of people pay for the insurance, thousands of people end up needing it, a few hundred end up needing a LOT of it, and the insurance companies are able to make more money than they hand out, so they continue to exist. This is part of why it's less expensive to get pet insurance for younger animals - people who sign up puppies and kittens are likely to be paying for a very long time and are likely to provide a lot of preventative care for their animals, so they're a good bet for the insurer. Animals signed up when they are older are more likely to have health problems (and pet insurance CAN turn animals away for preexisting conditions) and are going to cost the insurance companies more, so they cost more to enroll (and animals over a certain age or with certain conditions may be denied entirely).

This weighing risk/reward is called actuarial science, and the insurance industry is built on it.

But yeah it's kind of betting. The insurance company says "I'll insure ten thousand dogs and I'm going to bet that only a hundred of them will need surgery at some point in the next year" and if they're correct, they make money and the dogs who need surgery get their surgery paid for out of the premiums from the nine thousand nine hundred dogs who didn't need surgery.

Your assessment of credit is correct: credit card companies expect that you will end up carrying a balance, and that balance will accrue interest, and the interest is how they make the money.

And it is EASY to fuck up financially as an adult. REALLY EASY. But you are still likely to need a good credit score so you will need a credit history. That means that the correct way to use a credit card is to have a card, but not carry a balance.

To do this, never buy anything on the card that you can't afford. In order to avoid needing the card for emergencies, start an emergency fund that is at least 3 months of your total pay *before* you get a credit card. That seems like a *lot* of savings to have, but from the perspective of someone who has had plenty of mess-ups, it's a lot easier to build up a $10k emergency fund than it is to pay off a $10k credit card debt.

If you don't understand how interest works on credit cards, or why a 10k savings is different than a 10k debt, here are some examples working with $10k of debt, 23% interest (an average-ish rate for people with average credit), and various payments.

With that debt and that interest, here's how much it costs and how long it would take to pay off with $200 as the monthly payment:

Fourteen years, and it would cost you about twenty four thousand dollars in interest, for a total amount paid of about thirty four thousand dollars.

To save $10k at $200 a month would take four years and two months.

Here's the same debt at $300 a month:

4.5 Years and it costs about six grand (again, just in interest - sixteen thousand dollars total). Saving ten thousand dollars at three hundred dollars a month would take just under three years.

Here's the same debt at $400 a month:

3 years, about $4000 dollars (fourteen thousand dollars total). Saving ten thousand dollars at $400 a month takes just over two years.

The thing is, with all of these models you're going to end up paying one way or another. Insurance vs out of pocket is you weighing the risk of losing a fair amount of money by signing up but not using the system, or potentially losing a catastrophic amount of money by not signing up.

For credit cards they really only work if you know you're never going to need them for an emergency, because an emergency is what you're not going to be able to pay off right away. I didn't have an emergency fund when Large Bastard had his heart attack and needed surgery, or when we moved between states suddenly, or when we moved between states suddenly AGAIN and needed to pay storage costs, or when Large Bastard needed a transplant, or when Tiny Bastard got in a fight with my MiL's dog, and the fact that I didn't have an emergency fund is still costing me a lot of money.

So, young folks out there: what's the takeaway?

Get insurance. Get the best deal possible, which usually ends up being the one you sign up for early. You may think you can let it ride without insurance, but man in the six months between when I graduate college (and lost my school insurance) and when care kicked in after 90 days at my job I got electrocuted and needed to go to the ER. If that hadn't been a worker's comp payout I would have had thousands of dollars in bills. Something could happen. You could break your leg, you could get hit by a car, you could suddenly find out that you actually have heart disease at twenty, you could develop cancer. Have insurance, you need insurance. You legally need car insurance in the US, and you financially need health insurance. If you have a pet, I think it's a good idea for them to have pet insurance.

Credit cards are not for emergencies, they are not for fun, they are not for buying things that are just ever so slightly out of your budget, they are for taking advantage of the credit card company and managing to get by in a system that demands you have a credit score. ONLY put purchases on your credit card that you already have cash for. Before you get a credit card, build up an emergency savings so that you aren't tempted to put emergency charges on your card.

If you DO end up with an interest-bearing debt, pay it off as fast as possible because letting it linger costs you a LOT of money in the long run.

Stay the fuck away from tobacco and nicotine products they are fucking terrible for you, they are fucking expensive, and they are not worth it put the vapes down put the zyns down put the cigarettes down I will begin manifesting in your house physically i swear to fuck. Knock that shit off and put the cash that you'd be spending on nicotine into a savings account.

Take care, sorry everything sucks, I promise that in some ways it actually sucks less than it did before and we're working on trying to make it suck even less but it's taking a while.

[reasonsforhope]

hey, how do you cope with people saying we only have a small amount of time left to stop the worst effects of climate change? no matter how hopeful and ok i am, that always sends me back into a spiral :(

A few different ways

1. The biggest one is that I do math. Because renewable energy is growing exponentially

Up until basically 2021 to now, all of the climate change models were based on the idea that our ability to handle climate change will grow linearly. But that's wrong: it's growing exponentially, most of all in the green energy sector. And we're finally starting to see proof of this - and that it's going to keep going.

And many types of climate change mitigation serve as multipliers for other types. Like building a big combo in a video game.

Change has been rapidly accelerating and I genuinely believe that it's going to happen much faster than anyone is currently predicting

2. A lot of the most exciting and groundbreaking things happening around climate change are happening in developing nations, so they're not on most people's radars.

But they will expand, as developing nations are widely undergoing a massive boom in infrastructure, development, and quality of life - and as they collaborate and communicate with each other in doing so

3. Every country, state, city, province, town, nonprofit, community, and movement is basically its own test case

We're going to figure out the best ways to handle things in a remarkably quick amount of time, because everyone is trying out solutions at once. Instead of doing 100 different studies on solutions in order, we get try out 100 (more like 10,000) different versions of different solutions simultaneously, and then figure out which ones worked best and why. The spread of solutions becomes infinitely faster, especially as more and more of the world gets access to the internet and other key infrastructure

4. There's a very real chance that many of the impacts of climate change will be reversible

Yeah, you read that right.

Will it take a while? Yes. But we're mostly talking a few decades to a few centuries, which is NOTHING in geological history terms.

We have more proof than ever of just how resilient nature is. Major rivers are being restored from dried up or dead to thriving ecosystems in under a decade. Life bounces back so fast when we let it.

I know there's a lot of skepticism about carbon capture and carbon removal. That's reasonable, some of those projects are definitely bs (mostly the ones run by gas companies, involving carbon credits, and/or trying to pump CO2 thousands of feet underground)

But there's very real potential for carbon removal through restoring ecosystems and regenerative agriculture

The research into carbon removal has also just exploded in the past three years, so there are almost certainly more and better technologies to come

There's also some promising developments in industrial carbon removal, especially this process of harvesting atmospheric CO2 and other air pollution to make baking soda and other industrially useful chemicals

As we take carbon out of the air in larger amounts, less heat will be trapped in the atmosphere

If less heat is trapped in the atmosphere, then the planet will start to cool down

If the planet starts to cool down, a lot of things will stabilize again. And they'll probably start to stabilize pretty quickly

[novy2sirius]

᭓ ྀུ༺ a degree theory by nikola stojanovic

please read before proceeding

important note: this is not my info. this is all from nikola stojanovic’s theory on degrees in astrology. he has books on it that i think you can find online and download for free

trigger warnings: murder, car crashes, sex, and suicide

sign degrees

zero degrees: 0°

the same characteristics as the sign it’s already placed in. example - aries venus at 0° is purely an aries venus, obviously aside from the house energy

aries degrees: 1°, 13°, and 25°

beginnings, leadership, taking action, fighting spirit, not giving oneself up to fate, struggle, war, abuse, labor, diligence, etc

taurus degrees: 2°, 14°, and 26°

food, money, stability, earth, luxuries, sound of voice, singing voice, etc

gemini degrees: 3°, 15°, and 27°

communication, self-expression, technology, books, siblings, neighbors, etc

cancer degrees: 4°, 16°, and 28°

home, traditions, nurture, loyalty, faith, mother, the ocean/water, etc

leo degrees: 5°, 17°, and 29°

life, children, attention, fame, creativity, strength, happiness, light, etc

virgo degrees: 6° and 18°

improvement, health, to diminish, routine, animals, acts of service, etc

libra degrees: 7° and 19°

harmony/fairness, charm, beauty, law, music, art, dancing, pleasures, etc

scorpio degrees: 8° and 20°

death, major transformation, wealth, jealousy, sex, secrecy, taxes, etc

sagittarius degrees: 9° and 21°

wisdom, abundance, college, travel, photography, success, beliefs, etc

capricorn degrees: 10° and 22°

hard work, fear, public attention, karma, father, boss, isolation, history, etc

aquarius degrees: 11° and 23°

unexpected experiences, technology, friendships, networking, divorce, etc

pisces degrees: 12° and 24°

spirituality, escapism, dreams, illusion, the sea, mysteries, the hidden, etc

special degree meanings

supreme power: 2°

this degree is often found in the charts of people with remarkable achievements, who had extreme power, and who were highly respected according to nikola’s research

eroticism/a fun life: 5°

many sex symbols like marilyn monroe have this in their chart. nikola believed this was the best degree in general as well. he thought it indicated lots of fun and pleasure in one’s life

suicide/divorce: 11° and 23°

according to nikola the aquarius degrees (11 and 23) both indicate divorce occurring when placed in prominent positions in the chart. 11 is the only one indicating suicide though

car accidents: 15°

nikola believed that when this degree was connected to 8th house or scorpio placements it could indicate getting into car crashes

pure evil: 18°

nikola believed that this degree indicated a negative destiny for someone. he thought it was the worst degree you could have in your chart, based on his research he thought it was solely about facing hardships and nothing more. he also believed it could indicate being an evil person with no good intentions

to kill or be killed: 22°

just as the title reads, nikola believed this degree indicates being killed or being a killer. another thing he believed it could indicate was abandonment in the area of life it’s placed

clairvoyance: 29°

nikola believed this degree indicates someone that has very good intuition and can make accurate predictions about the outcomes of events

my opinion on astrology degrees

i personally don’t believe in nikola’s theory 100%, although i do think there’s accuracy to the signs being associated with specific degrees. i have always had stronger belief in my numerstrology degree theory than anything when it comes to this subject though. i definitely do not believe 18° is fully negative like he claims since the universe is yin yang so there’s always both positive and negative ways things can manifest. these are just my thoughts though

do you believe nikola’s degree theory? comment below!

[storieswithvenus]

beach days // JJ Maybank x fem reader

°❀⋆.ೃ࿔*:･ 𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘶𝘴 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬𝘴

hi!!! i hope everyone is doing well. i’m so sorry for not posting in like ages lmao. writers block is actually kicking my ass for the last few weeks so i’ve literally just wrote this to try and get something out. if it’s bad, im sorry!!!

ALSO!!! thank you for 100 followers!!! your support is super appreciated and i love every single one of you!!!

─ ⊹ ⊱ ☆ ⊰ ⊹ ─

the sun was glowing over the kildare county. the last few days had been the hottest ones of the season so far, and from what weather predictions had been reporting, it was only meant to be getting hotter.

you, sarah and kiara were all laying on your towels, the sand being too hot to lay on like yous usually did. the three of you laying there with your bikinis on, sunglasses covering your eyes and soaking up the sun. you enjoyed this time with your girls, you got some peace and quiet from the complete chaos the boys brought.

“BABE! look at this really cool trick me and JB can do,” the sound of your boyfriends voice attracting your attention. sitting up, along with sarah to watch what your two boyfriends could possibly be doing.

“this really isn’t going to go well, is it?” sarah whispered over to you, both of you staring intently at the two boys trying to do a backflip trick. you look over to her slightly, giggling at what she said, “this definitely is not going to go well. either one or both of them gets hurt.” you reply, your voice full of love as you turn your head back to the two boys.

“20 bucks it’ll be JJ who gets hurt”, kiara speaks up from the other side of you, she sits up to watch the boys. you and sarah let out a quiet laugh at kiaras comment, watching as the two of them get into position to try the trick again.

the two boys were standing with their backs together, walking away from each other a few feet, just to start doing back flips towards each other. what they didn’t realise however, was the fact that they were backflipping right into each other. so when they both collided and flipped over each other, you weren’t surprised to hear a few groans and moans from the boys.

kiaras laugh pierced the air, you and sarah looking over to her just to see her wiping her eyes to remove the tears in her eyes, her chest heaving up and down as she tried to regain her breath as she continued laughing. you couldn’t help but look back over to the boys, who were still laying in the wet sand, groaning as the tide covered their bodies with salt water, and laugh. quiet frankly, nearly peeing yourself from how much you were laughing at the site. you and kiara laughing as pope and cleo ran over to the two and started helping them up.

“baby the fact you are laughing really doesn’t make me feel any better”, JJ collapses infront of you, laying his head on your lap and you catch your breath. looking down at the blue eyes staring up at you, “sorry jay, but you you two idiots should’ve known what was gonna happen”.

JJ flicks your thigh as a way of telling you off, still looking up at you, a massive smile on his face watching his girl laugh at something stupid he did. you looked like an angel to him, from where he was laying on your lap, you had the sun shining bright behind you, thus leaving a heavenly glow behind you.

“why are you staring at me, baby?” your voice grabs his attention again. “cause you’re so beautiful” you blush at his words, leaning down to give him a slight kiss.

“you guys make me sick,” kiara says watching the two of you, a sarcastic tone on her voice. you and JJ start to giggle looking back at each other.

your fingers run through your boyfriends hair, watching everyone talk and laugh with each other. your boyfriend laying on your lap sleeping, his chest rising and lowering as he takes a breath.

“i love you”, you looked down to your boyfriend, his eyes open slightly looking up at you. leaning down to kiss him again slightly,

“i love you too”

[slut4celebs]

Do You Know How to Bend

Billie Eilish x Reader

Word Count: 1,016

Trigger Warnings: SMUT, MDNI. Scissoring, mommy kind, praising degradation.

Request/Synopsis: "a smut about bilie (wlw) since she was in dance she's really flexible" ... "I was thinking she uses that to her advantage in the bedroom, being able to bend is... certain ways"

Requests are open.

Billie smirked at her girlfriend, her fingers running down her arm from behind. The two were getting ready for bed, but Billie was starting to lose her focus with (Y/n) sitting on the edge of the bed, adorning only a bra and shorts. (Y/n) turned over to shoot her a soft smile, leaning over to press a soft kiss to her lips. Billie smiled into the kiss, frowning softly when (Y/n) pulled back to tug on a shirt. "No," she whined, bottom lip still out, "I had such a nice view." She dramatically dropped her hand from her girlfriend's arm to cover her eyes in playful sorrow.

"Oh, stop being a baby and just do something about it." (Y/n) grinned impishly, causing Billie to peak under her arm. She liked to make sure that (Y/n) was 100-percent okay with her actions, and by the taunting look that had taken over the girl's face, she knew that (Y/n) knew exactly what she was getting into. "Come on, Mommy, I need you. In fact, let me take care of you first…" Her hands slid up Billie's shirt, causing her to bite her lip in response. She loved when (Y/n) took on the dominating role, even though she knew she would eventually take over because she couldn't handle being submissive for too long. Still, she wanted to see how far (Y/n) would go. "Is that okay with you? If I fucked you, Mommy? If your pretty little slut made you feel really good?"

Billie couldn't help but smirk at that, licking her bottom lip before sucking it in. She went to cup (Y/n)'s face, her thumb sliding along her bottom lip. "Make me feel good," she said, her eyes searching her girlfriend's. Billie was positive that the color of her eyes much have resembled (Y/n)'s due to how dark they got from lust. She was enthralled by the way (Y/n) took onto this dominate role so well, with no practice necessary. Billie didn't know how, exactly, she just knew she was now stripped to her underwear from very swift and calculated motions that were too quick for her brain to properly process. It caused a thrill to shiver up her spine as she watched (Y/n), herself, strip down in front of her. Both of them laid clad in their bras and panties, eyes trained on each other, trying to predict the other's next move.

"Show me what you remember from dance. You must still be pretty flexible right? I want to see it." (Y/n) hummed mischievously. She, of course, knew to be careful due to the injury that caused Billie to stop dancing. After moving to remove Billie's underwear and her own, she quickly got to work. She had her girlfriend lay on her side, lifting one leg over her shoulder. The position was compromising as it allowed (Y/n) to see how wet Billie really was for her. It made her moan in delight. She moved to position herself correctly. She then looked at her, a mischievous smirk falling on her lips as she lowered her dripping cunt against her girlfriend's their bodies clicking into place together. "Fuck. You feel so good against me, Mommy."

The two of them chased their high, their clits clashing as their moans filled the bedroom. (Y/n), having the more stable position, grinded against Billie as her girlfriend lifted her hips so they were able to meet each other better. Their breathing came out as pants as the two continued to grind against each other. (Y/n) couldn't help but be impressed by the fact Billie kept her leg carefully propped against her shoulder, a skill she had to learn after many sex trials with Billie. Though, she supposed that her girlfriend's dancer start put her at way more of an advantage than her. That didn't matter though. What mattered was their skin growing sticky with sweat, their moans mingling, and the fact they were both about to hit their orgasm at the same time.

(Y/n) turned Billie's chin, taking on the same effect that Billie did to her. By the movement, Billie knew exactly was coming before (Y/n)'s thumb was even able to touch her lip. She let her lips part and watch as (Y/n) spit in her mouth. Billie moaned and swallowed before their lips crashed hungrily, (Y/n)'s body bending forward in a slightly uncomfortable position. But it was all worth it to reach this high with Billie as their tongues fought for dominance. Their cunts clenched around nothing as orgasms wracked both their bodies. Billie's legs shook with her orgasm as they moaned into each other's mouths. They didn't stop until their highs were both reached.

When they did, they were frozen, momentarily, in their spots. They pulled away from the kiss, disconnecting a string of spit that followed in their wake. "You did so good," Billie praised, forgetting that she had been the bottom for once. She let (Y/n) use her. And, fuck, it felt so good she was going to have to fuck her again later to show her how good she did. For now, though, they just held onto to each other, not caring that they were sticking. "I'm going to need to stretch the next time you are on top." She rubbed her thigh before kissing (Y/n) deeply.

(Y/n) kissed back before pulling away to dip down and press kissing down Billie's neck. "You might should stretch now because I'm not yet done with you." Billie looked at her in surprise, but she nodded in silent excitement. "I want to see just how flexible you really are." She kissed down her body, separating her legs, finding a spot in between them. "I want to see if you know how to bend, Billie." Billie's head fell back as (Y/n)'s tongue found it's way through her folds and lips around her clit. She knew at that moment she was in for an amazingly long night.

[lovelyyandereaddictionpoint]

Hello, I hope your having a nice day, can I request Yandere 1st Years + Grim (Platonic) with a Komi Reader? (From Komi can’t Communicate)

Reader’s known for being incredibly beautiful, intelligent, athletic and elegant in everything she does, however she has crippling Social Anxiety and ends up scaring everyone away with her ‘mean/scary’ look so everyone tends to avoid her (When it’s actually herself that’s nervous since she doesn’t know what to say)

Except for Ace, Deuce and Grim after they spent time with Reader in the mine, they discovered her anxiety she wrote it out so now they’re mostly the ones who do the talking for her and try to help her reach her goal of making 100 Friends in NRC, even though they both think that’s a ‘weird/bad goal’ because this IS NRC

Reader loves cats, so she spoils Grim and Lucius (The latter likes laying in her lap and even follows her around) with pets, treats and affection and helping her friends with studying since she gets perfect marks

How would they react to hearing Reader’s voice for the first time? Not to mention have Reader tell write out that she made a friend all by herself who visits her dorm at night and does nightly walks (You know who it is)

Komi-San Reader | Yandere Twisted Wonderland

You’re quiet and intimidating but not because others find you scary. The exact opposite, they’re obsessed. You’re athletic, you’re smart, you’re beautiful, you’re kind, and the list goes on. Without so much as opening your mouth, the school is at its hands and knees all for you. Little do they know about your silent struggle, not like your dearest first-year friends. More than anyone they know how hard you work and if their hearts could overfill with love for you it already has.  So imagine your stalkers' friends; reaction to you’re never heard before voice:

Ace Trappola

“Aw man, (Y/n) I can’t begin to explain how much of a pain he is! With his moodiness, we’re not going to win the game.”

“...”

“Don’t say that, I am great but not that great.”

“...Y-you c-can d-do it!” 

He plays 10x better 

All while running on his excitement and embarrassment

“Whoa, Ace! W-were you holding out on us!”

Everyone is floored that he’s suddenly just doing so well

He’s keeping your quiet cheers to himself 

Replaying it in his head

He will teasingly ask you for a recording even when you cutely shake your head

“Oi oi don’t get all shy now, you were doing so well!”

He does circle back having already written down the names of those who turned their heads

If they’re so inclined to hear your voice in a roaring crowd 

Then they should be alright with their ears no longer working 

He’s being merciful when he does just this

And if you mention any mysterious friends, he’d no doubt try to follow up on that same treatment

Deuce Spade

“M-maybe being an honor student was too high of a goal.”

You shake your head

“Ahh I appreciate it, (Y/n) but if I’m going to flunk again I’ll be in trouble. Both with Riddle and my mom, I just can’t measure up. ”

“You…are a good student.”

He blushes 

“G-g-g-g-good j-job (Y/n)!”

He knows how much this is taking for you to try 

But he just can’t keep it together 

He’s among the first to hear your precious voice

He has to be the only one

He doesn’t know what this feeling is but he doesn’t want to share

It especially rubs him the wrong way when you mention a mysterious friend 

He decides to wait it out

See who this new friend he’s going to gut he has to meet

Epel Felmier

“Grrrr I can’t stand it! Why can’t I be taken seriously? I just hate my face!”

“...”

“Don’t hafta lie ta me, (Y/n)! I know I’m not handsome.”

“...I….th-th-”

“Huh?” 

“I think you’re handsome.”

“Aw shucks, (Y/n)!”

He definitely wasn’t was expecting that

You’re just the sweetest as he predicted

He already keeps the notebook you’ve lost+ gone through with your written words

And the apple cores he lovingly retrieves from Ramshackle’s trash no doubt cultivating whatever ends up growing from them

He avoids the impulse to tear his book open at the mention of a new friend 

Well I hope they like a poison-apple

Jack Howl 

“I have a magift practice later on…are you still going to come?”

You nod your head

“T-thank you, I’d appreciate your support from the stands.”

When he says that he doesn’t expect you to actually whisper anything out

“G-go Jack!”

His keen ears pick it up and suddenly he’s breezing through obstacles like never before

And of course, he did his mate practically cheered him on

It makes it much earlier to replay that encouragement when he’s fighting for your honor his ownership of you

No doubt Savvannclaw is filled with your admirers

But some are a little too bold

So leave it to your mate to take action first

And while he’s at it he might as well guard your home more intensely

Sebek Zigvolt

“WHAT A MARVEL HUMAN! YOU’VE TAMED ALL THE FERAL FELINES ON CAMPUS!” 

“...”

“WELL FOR A HUMAN IT IS DECENT WORK! PERHAPS YOU DO HAVE–”

“C-can you please be quiet?”

“...?....!..Y-you think y-you, a mere human, can tell me what to do?!” 

Yes you can, having the loud half-fae go down two whole octaves was a feat

And he keeps replaying the moment in his head specifically the way your lips moved

Burning hot all over he’s not really listening to anyone for the next week month

But once he’s broken out of it he’s determined to repeat the miracle

And it seems it works best if your alone?

Then he’ll be sure to chase off the gaggle of scum+ admirers who you claim to be friends with

And he thinks nothing of a midnight friend…that is if you’re alone with them than that’s completely unacceptable

Grim

“Henchhuman! Everyone is soooo mean! Why doesn’t anyone like me? I know I’m so cool and maybe that’s why–”

“I like you.”

“Well of course you w–W-wait did you speak? T-t to me! Whoopee, I’m going to tell everyone the great Grim is who you spoke to first!” 

He runs off to do just that 

Bragging to anyone who would listen

He has to dodge a lot of assassination hits that day

But it gives him the content whenever that icky feeling comes up sometimes

And as for your ‘Hornton’ friend he’s seen him and next time he comes around he’ll boast all about his greatness and how you spoke to him

[the-artist-grimm]

Hey, Grimm, I've been meaning to ask, but what other information do you have about the vessels (besides 7, 12 and 13, which you explored already)? I know 9 is gender fluid as well, but that's about it.

Also, credit where credit is due, you were the inspiration for my Forneus to be a former vessel as well, though I went with tarot instead of numerology as theme.

Crimson Angel AU - Vessels 1-12

(I don't have too much on the others but I got some notes!)

Vessels #1 and #2 - Tasked with breaking into Shamura's archives to find a way to break the spell

#1 (Unity) They were Narinder's only witness, and after their Lord was chained, killed themself to reach his side, knowing he'd resurrect them. They worked diligently but abdicated after 150 years, as after well over a century of having no luck in freeing their god, they were tired. They did not die in pain, they simply stabbed their heart and asked Narinder not to revive them. Narinder only realized it a while after, but they had loved him-and though he'd not felt the same, he did feel guilty for letting them go on for so long. Their lengthy service was because of their unrequited love, and had he'd known, he would've insisted they go live their life and leave him.

#2 (Duality) Was actually a set of twins, a Brother and Sister whom died together and asked to share the crown. Tag-teaming crusades and the cult, they managed to finally help him understand the spell, yet after 120 years the two were tired as well, and thus he released them from service, wanting time as well to contemplate what to do from there. To his horror, however, they returned to him in less than a year-executed by War for their 'crimes' against the Old Faith. He offered to revive them again yet they refused, and thus passed on.

Vessel #3 - Originally tasked with the archives again, then the first to try killing the Bishops

#3 (Trinity, the Spirit Realm) She was once a budding seer, yet died after one of her card-readings angered a client. Narinder originally asked her to try searching the archives for another way to be freed, but eventually came to understand he had no choice, and sent her to try and fight his siblings. Somewhat stable at first, her mind, however, gradually began to crumble under the weight of death and blood, and eventually his once calm vessel became violent and un-predictable. Narinder forced her to abdicate after 100 years of service, and she died a month later after her cards said she could take on War alone without a crown. It was her who made Narinder order Red to keep closer watch on vessel mental states.

Vessels #4-#6 - Tasked with trying to kill the Bishops

#4 (Balance) The oldest vessel at age 55, he was a former guard captain. An effective leader, he, however, was not physically fit to fight as much as required, even with the crown's aid. He voluntarily abdicated after only 60 years then was executed by Leshy after 5, he'd not heeded Narinder's warning to be careful of the Bishops.

#5 (Freedom, Curiosity) The youngest vessel at 18, they were very eager to serve, but were very lax about their cult. A wildcard in battle they somehow managed to do ok against witnesses, but in the cult it was more like college students throwing a party. After 130 years they still proved just as reckless, so Narinder requested them to abdicate. They managed to calm down after and even settle down, yet after 10 years they and their new family-a husband and child, were executed. Just as #5 had realized there was something nice about a peaceful life, a former follower ratted them out.

#6 (Perfection) Another ok vessel, but highly vain. They followed Narinder's requests at first, but gradually grew more fond of gaining their own power, to the point where for 30 years managed to avoid all contact with their god. It was Red who threw a bit of a rebellion that got them back into the gateway after killing them in their sleep, and Narinder forcibly took Red back. Their own cult murdered them come morning, once they realized their 'god' was nothing more than a vain false idol-one whom had grown very fond of violence towards their own people in later years. Murder was the followings' payback. They held the crown for 135 years.

Vessels #7-#11 - Tasked with trying to kill the Bishops' following/disciples, all under STRICT orders to not engage with the gods

#7 (Lady Luck) Forneus. you know her already, but lets review. Strong sense of justice, very capable in a fight, the picture of a perfect vessel-if she wasn't just a little arrogant. Her overconfidence never hindered her however, and while he did grow uncertain about how many lovers she took it wasn't a point where Narinder felt concerned. After 80 years, however, she called out to him via the crown more serious than she'd ever been-she'd discovered that she was pregnant. A trip to the gateway could kill the unborn, and resurrections could only affect her. Having never considered raising a child she suddenly was at an impasse and unsure, yet after a long talk with Narinder kinda uncertainly giving her encouragement, she decided to take it as a sign to step back, and relinquished the crown.

#8 (Infinity) #8 was not as effective as Forneus, yet they also were highly determined to do their best no matter how many deaths they faced. Served for 40 years and only abdicated upon the realization they were outliving their loved ones. Life was infinite for them, but not their family. Died 6 years later of grief, after watching their youngest sibling die peacefully of old age. Narinder had gotten lucky with them as a note-he'd chosen them on a whim after the twins had arrived, and it was by pure chance they proved competent. They, however, never noticed the twins, they were so small and quiet.

#9 (Sorrow) #9 was genderfluid and had once been a lover, and wanted revenge for their spouse who died after stealing from Chaos' domain. Though Narinder was hesitant about another anger-fueled vessel, they begged for a second chance, and he decided to give them a try. 25 years was all they lasted, since Red reported they were becoming increasingly cruel and violent in later years and Narinder took quick action to avoid it progressing further. They were executed for murder not long after, after becoming a vigilante killing anyone who dared praise a god's name. They willfully ignored Aym and Baal out of anger for never having children of their own-and once actually lashed out at them when they'd gotten annoyed at hearing the toddlers playing. They made the twins cry about 5 years in, and while they actually did apologize after that Narinder was more wary about letting vessels interact with the twins.

#10 (Completion) Vain similar to #6, yet not to the point of selfishness. He managed a Cult just fine and was decent at combat, but he served only 30 years, however, after falling in love. He died not long after marrying though, since as he could not rely on a doctor of Pestilence's cult for assistance, his spouse could do nothing to save him after he'd fallen ill. He ignored the twins but sent food when asked-including uh...corpses. He'd been born into Heket's cult and cannibalism had been an old habit he'd never kicked. He used to hide heretic bodies in the offerings chest forgetting it was a one-way system.

#11 (Potential) Decent leader, decent fighter, served 30 years where-upon the Prophecy was heard of. During one crusade through Darkwood they managed to hear from Clauneck about it-he'd given the reading to the bishops, and while the duck typically allowed fate to pass as it desired, their discussion of executing all sheep concerned him enough to give a warning. Narinder initially wanted 11 to take on the role of mentor for this promised liberator, but 11 did not like the idea of babysitting and abdicated, leaving on poor terms for either side. As such, they did not heed Narinder's warning to be wary, and were captured and executed a few months later. They in general disliked kids, and made sure the cats were all made aware of that every visit. Aym and Baal's later hesitance towards Anthea is partially because 11 often complained about how loud/rude/annoying children were, despite Aym and Baal having only whispered to each other once or twice during a visit. Narinder had tried to convince them it was 11 who was the issue not them, but neither can really forget that and 9's previous scolding. Anthea encouraging them to talk had them a mix of surprise and a little nervous early on.

Vessel #12 - Tasked with just learning how to fight, manage a cult, and hopefully act as a bridge to pass it on to the Lamb.

#12 (Stability) Ratau was the vessel with the largest gap between him and his predecessor. 35 years separated them since Narinder spent too long trying to find someone perfect to no avail, and Ratau's anger at the Bishops, the realization that the Sheep were nearly down to 1, and the frustration of not having anyone lined up made him decide to just do it. Ratau only lasted around 10 years however, his initial rage had faded and while he was well-liked by his following he was not strong in the face of conflict, and after the Fox incident, abdicated of his own will, with Narinder simply telling him that when the Liberator arrived he'd call upon him once more. Of all former vessels Ratau was the only one who took Narinder's parting warning of the Bishops going after him seriously-he set up his lonely shack, and lined his territory with traps. The friends he'd made also proved useful, and he managed to avoid capture for the next 40 years. He did notice the twins, and actually did kinda awkwardly wave at them a few times, but Narinder's protective glaring scared him off from doing it again. Had he not Ratau honestly might've tried getting to know them since he did like children, but because he was too scared he never even looked at them after out of fear.

Anyway, thank you! Though as a note I believe it was @/waokevale who was one of the first to make Forneus a vessel, but I'm glad my work inspired you too! Forneus is such an interesting character so its fun to play with her background! :D

And cool!! As pointed out by @/parememi Forneus, Ratau, and Anthea actually line up with the perfect tarots for themselves too which was a happy little accident, (Forneus is The Chariot, Ratau The Hanged Man, and Anthea Death) but while I thus have tarot associations for them because of that, the rest just got numbers.

I went with number symbolism mostly since I see the vessels as points on a clock, with them being a countdown to the '13th Hour' of the Last Lamb-the impossible vessel not meant to survive.

Boarders are by @/lambouillet

[pikahlua]

Genuinely I don’t have a problem with criticism of MHA. What keeps getting me is the lack of self-reflection and good faith.

Maybe it’s just the framing, but so much criticism is framed as “Horikoshi tried to do this familiar (western) theme but failed” or “he didn’t properly criticize society in a way that matches my personal beliefs” and “I don’t like the morals” without first demonstrating the critic actually understands the morals in the story or that their personal perspective may be heavily colored by their views of their own society. Like, Japanese society is not exempt from criticism, but depictions of society as imperfect and difficult to change aren’t the same thing as saying the current system is good. Does Japan have systemic issues in its justice system and such? Yes, but if you’re using shorthand about western culture’s systemic issues to describe Japan’s issues, I don’t yet believe you actually know what those systemic issues are. There are plenty of Japanese stories with morals I personally find distasteful as a person with a more individualistic worldview, but I also understand how they can read as good morals from a collectivist perspective. And I don’t recall reading all that many novels in school where the reason they were considered good and classic was because they had such good morals. They were stories written from the perspectives of various cultures and eras, and there was a lot more to them than “do I agree with what the author is depicting here, assuming they’re depicting something they even fully agree with at all?”

In the end I guess I was never into 100% of what was going on in MHA anyway. I’ve been pretty open about why I’m here. But that’s part of why it feels like I’ve been able to adjust my expectations of the series as it gave me new information rather than what sadly appears to me like a lot of people clinging to their own personal interpretations far past the point of viability. I predicted years ago there would be a large contingent of disappointed readers at the end because the interpretations across the fandom were so varied and in many cases so rigid. They couldn’t all be right in the end. But I just hope some people take the time to try to understand MHA in good faith. Of course some points were interesting world-building details the story didn’t want to linger on, but that means those topics aren’t the story MHA is trying to tell. I want to read criticism of the actual story MHA is trying to tell, not what could have been two or three years ago.

[veturiusofserra]

when you know, you know | s. r.

𑁤 synopsis: in an interview she opens up about how easy it is to be loved by Spencer, sharing the story of how they met and how his love inspired her music.

𑁤 pairing: spencer reid x singer!reader

𑁤 words: 1.090

𑁤 disclaimer: This was 100% inspired by something my bf said a while ago, and I love the song. I hope you will enjoy it too <3

“As we reach the close of our conversation, one thing’s bugging me. In your song “Margaret,” there’s this line ‘when you know, you know.’ Like, how do you just know someone’s the one? I’ve been through my share of relationships, yet I haven’t experienced that kind of thing you sing about. In your song, it’s all so clear-cut, like you can predict the future. It reminds me of a kid believing in the tooth fairy – sweet idea, maybe not quite real. But that’s probably what makes the song so good. It talks about this perfect love where everything just clicks, and all your worries disappear. Maybe that’s what I’m still looking for, or maybe it’s just for some lucky people. Either way, your song paints such a strong picture of love that it makes me wonder if I’ll ever have a ‘Margaret’ of my own.”

“It’s funny, right? The answer everyone gives is so simple: “you’ll just know.” Like love hits you like a lightning bolt, destiny calls, happily ever after guaranteed. But maybe that’s the problem. We get this picture-perfect idea of love from movies and books, and then we miss the real thing when it’s right under our noses. We set these high expectations, these checklists of what “the one” should be like. And if someone doesn’t tick every box, we write them off. It’s like searching for a flawless diamond, forgetting that even the most beautiful gems have tiny imperfections. Because guess what? We all mess up. You make mistakes, I make mistakes, everyone does. Maybe that’s what makes a real connection so special – accepting someone, flaws and all. Speaking of which, there’s this story I wanted to share with you.”

“We're all ears!”, the interviewer and the crew smile with waiting faces.  

“For the longest time, I believed I was destined to give love, but never receive it.  Maybe because... well, let’s be honest, I can be a bit self-absorbed, lost in my own head and neglecting others. But even with the no love life mantra, there was always this yearning for a family, a deep desire for children I could call my own. The ‘what ifs’ terrified me, though. Would I be a good parent? Would they be happy? Could I provide for them? Eventually, I resigned myself to a life of music, making people happy through my art, having a few friends, maybe a tragically young death – you know, the artist’s curse. 

Then, I found him. We both know Penny, but run in different circles. He’s in law, I’m an artist – about as different as you get, except for maybe a shared love of fancy vocabulary. We met at Penny’s birthday party, and while he claims it was love at first sight for him, I just thought he was the most handsome man I’d ever seen. But that was it. He was too shy to introduce himself, and I was sworn off men at the time. Funny how fate works, right?  We never crossed paths before, but after that night, it seemed like everywhere I turned, there he was. That’s when I decided to take a chance, and boy, I was so scared!

All those stories about soulmates and butterflies? They weren’t for me. Anxiety had been my constant companion for as long as I could remember. Butterflies just meant another battle brewing in my head. What I craved was peace, a steady hand to anchor me until I was ready to set sail. So, I built a friendship with him. We shared secrets, dreams, and vulnerabilities. He turned out to be a brilliant mind, a walking encyclopedia with an IQ of 187. Yet, he never made me feel inferior. He found humor in my quirks, and we seemed to complement each other perfectly. The more time we spent together, the more his words resonated: “We were designed for one another.”

And then, it hit me. Love. Deep, unexpected, and all-encompassing. It felt effortless, a perfect fit. But fear gnawed at me. It was all so new, so unfamiliar. Just as I was drowning in uncertainty, Penny, our mutual friend, reached out. She had something to show me – “Margaret.”

“She wrote it?” she asked, intrigued.

“Well, she started it,” I clarify. “Inspired by him, she penned the first lines that night after the birthday party. She couldn't shake the image of his longing gaze, a sight she’d never witnessed before. It felt sacred, a raw glimpse into his heart. The initial draft, rough around the edges, went something like this: ‘just writing for a friend. My shirt's inside out, and penmanship is messy. He met her on the rooftop, and she wore white. He said, ‘I think I’m in trouble.’ He saw flashes of the future.” A gentle smile graces your lips. 

“Seriously, that’s adorable.”

I nod, a blush creeping up my cheeks. “Right? Her words sparked inspiration within me. I wrote the rest, my mind consumed by-”

“By him.” she prompted, leaning in.

“He made love feel simple. Loving me was effortless for him, a stark contrast to the struggle I’d always imagined. It was like breathing, a natural and easy rhythm. He helped me discover the light that had been hiding within me all along.”

“There’s a saying,” the interviewer began, “to be loved is to be changed.”

I smiled. “I prefer a different one: to be loved is to be known. Because maybe, just maybe, he saw the affection within me all along, the part I couldn’t quite see myself.”

“You are indeed full of affection,” she said warmly. “Thank you for sharing this story with us.”

“Thank you for listening. I know it's a cliché, but there truly is someone out there for everyone. You never know what tomorrow holds, but deep down, a tiny spark ignites within us, guiding us towards that love. Trust it.”

“That wraps it up for our interview with the lovely Y/n! But before we say goodbye, there's one more message for her. Can we play it, Jonah?” A nod later, the studio fills with the sound of a familiar voice.

“Hey there, love. Just wanted to say congratulations on the album! You poured your heart and soul into it, and I’m incredibly proud. But hey, can you come home soon? Two days feels like an eternity without you. Miss my other half. Love you tons, sweetheart. And everyone listening, stream Ocean Boulevard! Dex says hi to mom, too.” A meow erupts in the background, eliciting a laugh from you and the studio crew.

thoughts? or prayers idk

[bouquetface]

D7: Your Children pt. 2

Accuracy dependent on ENTIRE d1 and d7 chart.

QUICK NOTES - HOW TO PREDICT GENDER:

One way to predict gender is to check whether 5th H in D1/Natal has masculine or feminine planets + signs. To gain more accuracy, check 5th H in D7 (for first child), 7th H in D7 (for second child), 9th H in D7 (for third child), and so on. Check the sign AND sign of where the ruler is placed.

Feminine Signs: Virgo, Cap, Scorpio, Cancer, Taurus, Pisces.

Masculine Signs: Sag, Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Aquarius.

This is not going to give 100% accuracy. There is more that goes into predicting gender such aspects to ASC in D7 and aspects to ruling planets. However, I want to keep it simple and fun. Take it as entertainment.

DETAILED OBSERVATIONS:

Person A:

In natal, they have 5th H ruler (mars) in 6th House. Saturn is conjunct 5th H Ruler too. These are two indicators for having children late. This person did not have their first child until 32.

Saturn conjunct 5th ruler in 6th of natal can show difficulty in having children. This person was unsure whether they could have children or not. When natal shows negative indicators in regard to children, one can check d7 ascendant/first house.

D7 ASC will support or deny whether the person can easily have children or not. For this person, Jupiter is in Taurus first house. Therefore, they were always likely to have children despite birth being delayed later than they desired.

Venus and first house ruler show overall health of the child. In this case, Venus is the ASC ruler - in 2nd h gemini. Venus does well in gemini. This person's children were all healthy.

5th House in D7 will show you the first child. This person has a Virgo 5th H, Mercury (the ruler) in Capricorn. Virgo + Cap are feminine signs - this person's first child is a daughter - she has a Virgo Sun + Saturn in First house.

7th House in D7 will show you the second child. This person has Scorpio 7th, Mars (the ruler) in Pisces conjunct Moon. These are both feminine signs + moon is a feminine planet. Their second is a girl. The girl is a scorpio moon, pisces asc with mars in first house.

Person B:

In natal, they have 5th House Aries, Mars is in 5th - with no harsh aspects. When a planet is it's own sign, it is secure. Unlike Person A, it was their choice to wait, thus they NO bad emotions associated with this choice. They are secure in their choice.

In D7 5th H is Libra, Venus (the ruler) is conjunct Sun in Gemini. These are masculine signs and sun is a masculine planet. Their child is a boy - libra sun in sidereel & venus + mercury is in his first house.

In D7, Venus is conjunct Sun in first house - sun is a malefic. The child was born premature. The child has a learning disability.

Venus shows overall health and whether the child will deal with any illnesses, disabilities or disorders. In this case, Venus was conjunct a malefic and receiving harsh aspect from Moon. Thus, while the child is healthy and the disability is not debilitating, it is not easy for the her and the child.

Sun (father) and moon (mother) can show the child's relationship with each parent. In this case, sun is conjunct first house ruler in gemini. The child is very close to his dad - decided to live with him after the divorce. They do have a best friend type of relationship.

Moon opposites Sun and Venus from 7th. The relationship isn't the worst, however it is not as close as the one with the father. Likely due to the opposition, the mom is seen as constantly in conflict/fighting with the father. Moon harshly aspected in 7th - the child has expressed frustration with how the mom attempts to influence his romantic relationships.

[girlkisser13]

dating cassandra cain would include

• you always go to her ballet recitals and give her a big bouquet of flowers after every show.

• once you find out about her secret identity, she would make it a priority to teach you basic self defense (unless you’re also a vigilante).

• if you’re a vigilante like her, the two of you can predict each others moves.

• the two of you SOO in sync it’s crazy.

• you’re her regular sparring partner.

•she’s really good at picking up on your moods and helping you through any panic or anxiety attacks.

• she’s also very quick to recognize any potential triggers based upon changes in your behavior.

• she isn’t too big on pda but will definitely hold your hand if you initiate it.

• the two of you like to meditate together and do crazy couples yoga poses that end in both of you sprawled on the floor, laughing hysterically.

• she likes to take you to the tops of different buildings in the city to watch the sunset with you. she’s in love with the way the pink and orange hues frame your face. <33

• she’s very big on cuddling, and you often wake up with both of her arms wrapped around your waist as if you were a teddy bear.

• she likes to copy and memorize your movements. she’ll often catching herself even try to talk like you, or just her mouth moving when you’re talking, trying to stay in sync with you. it makes her feel closer to you.

• if you like to dance, she would love to dance with you. it doesn’t matter if it’s an actual choreographed routine or if it’s just for fun.

• you would have to invite her to dance with you though, otherwise she’ll just watch you and copy your moves.

• she sneaks up on you ALL THE TIME. every chance she gets she pulls a bruce on you.

• one second you're just changing, and the next she's smiling at you from the mirror. you don't know if it's creepy or cute. maybe a little bit of both.

• she would 100% steal food off of your plate.

• the two of you love that you can communicate with each other without talking.

• you’d know what the other is thinking based on each other’s body language and facial expressions.

• she always gives you the BIGGEST smile whenever she sees you, and sometimes she'll put her hand on your heart and sign "hi". <33

[hugsandchaos]

Danny in an Encanto crossover gives the impression of someone trying to befriend a stray feral cat and bring them inside to give the love and shelter, but the stray feral cat doesn’t trust them and keeps hissing every time they get too close.

Although, I’d love to see everyone being completely accepting of Danny. They don’t look at him with suspicion or hatred when they see him slip up, they’re amazed! He has powers just like the Madrigals? That’s super cool! And he has more than one? Not just phasing through solid objects, but also invisibility and sensing ghosts nearby? Even better!

I bet that Bruno would relate to him in a way. They were both looked down on for their powers, but in different ways. Bruno because he mostly predicted bad things with no control over it, and Danny because a lot of people, including his parents, really didn’t like “Phantom” because the sole reason that he was a ghost. Alma knew that it was Bruno who had the powers, Danny’s parents didn’t know he was the ghost they keep shooting at.

Also, Danny 100% defends Bruno from any villagers who blame him for having bad visions. Bruno’s lacked social interaction with other humans for ten whole years, but Danny’s up for fighting for him. His favorite line to use was “If I’m a child and I have to explain this to you, what does that say about you as an adult?”. He didn’t get in trouble for it.

Danny talks about space and teaches them about it! He’s more than happy to explain it all and answer their questions the best he can!

Danny eats Julieta’s food and is honestly freaked out because his ribs are suddenly not broken anymore. Take it a step further and say that he’s sleep deprived, and one of the side effects of having food that heals you is that it can make you really tired if you haven’t slept well for a while, so you can’t help but take a quick nap. So he just falls unconscious after a few bites and wakes up in the early morning not knowing what year it is.

It doesn’t get rid of his death mark, though, which confuses everyone. Speaking of his death mark, Danny doesn’t like to talk about it, but eventually explains that it’s a scar from being zapped. He doesn’t go into detail or talk about what exactly the incident did to him, though. He just mentions that he got zapped and has a scar from it.

Eventually, the Madrigals will come to the realization that he doesn’t just have ghost-like powers. He’s actually a ghost. Half ghost, at least.

Also, Danny swears he sees Pedro around the house, not just in the paintings, and the most often place is by Alma’s side. He’s even had conversations with him. To everyone else, it looks like he’s talking to thin air, but he seems so fixated on something that’s actually there and listens to nothing so much that they think he’s actually being serious. Once, during a conversation with Alma and she was telling him about Pedro, he looked at her very confused and said “What are you talking about? He’s standing right next to you”.

At first, she was upset, but he said it with way too much confusion and conviction that she starts to realize he’s serious. Every time someone says that he isn’t, Danny gestures to nothing and goes “Are you blind?! He’s right there!”. In his eyes, Pedro really is there, looking awkward because this kid sees him and is arguing with his family about it.

Honestly, Danny doing something by himself and then suddenly turning around and making immediate direct eye contact with Pedro would be really funny. Pedro is honestly freaked out because something seemed off with the kid from the beginning, and he just made eye contact with a ghost?

Oh, and you best believe that after being treated so nicely by everyone, Danny will start throwing hands the second another ghost tries to cause them trouble.

Make it even better by combining it with Good Vlad. The two just show up one day trying to find a place to live. Their dynamic confuses more than a few people because people usually treat their god father or technical uncle with love and respect. Danny’s constantly getting on his nerves for the fun of it, doing things including but not limited to taking his coffee. He also calls him a “fruit loop”, which apparently means someone insane. Vlad calls him “Little Badger”, and yes, he’s actually been bitten by Danny once because Vlad startled him when he grabbed him to pull him out of danger and Danny’s first instinct was to bite him.