#aite another reading here

[tuliptic]

My Way: Finding My Place in Adulthood

Don’t be afraid, dreams are everywhere, just keep going as I always have, this is my way.

Henlo adults here, this is another reading for y’all. This reading is specifically targeted to all adults: young adults to ease their minds; regular adults to get used to adulthood. Adulthood is really… Something… And this is coming from someone who’s turning 30 soon. I still have no grasp about what I’m doing, how I’m living my life, etc. Adulthood is still scary to me, though I have to say I’m seeing myself getting better and better day by day. Taking baby steps is important, as we all grow from what we experience.

Close your eyes, meditate on this topic and ask yourself the question: How am I supposed to move around in adulthood, being an adult? Breathe in and out, make sure your mind and heart is calm. Then, open your eyes to see which pile talks to you the most/draws you in the most. Once you’ve found your pile, scroll down to the respective parts to see what are the messages for you.

Pile 1 - Pile 2

Pile 3 - Pile 4

Disclaimer: This is solely for my entertainment purposes. Take only whatever you feel like it. If it doesn’t resonate, it’s okay to just drop it. Also, I do not consent to my work or images being used by third parties on this platform or other websites as well.

Decks used: Luna Cat Tarot Deck (Major Arcana), Linestrider Tarot Deck, Sweet Dreams Oracle Deck, Starcodes Astro Oracle Deck.

Pile 1: Don’t be afraid, dreams are everywhere

One card to represent you: The World

I feel like there’s some sort of fear and enlightenment here. Some of you have an idea of what you want to do or achieve in your life, some of you know your life purposes, most of you are content with how your life is right now and are just going with the flow. However, all have a certain discomfort in common, which is fear of uncertainty. Most here may have earth influence in your chart, where stability is needed, where you are able to hold certain control over your own life. What if I do this and I could no longer go back? What if I give up my job and pursue something else? You have the answers to these questions, but you’re not ready to take the first step because of how certain you are that things will not go as you planned and hence, you’re in a standstill. (PS: Some of you may be into spirituality as well, and you might be called to use this gift to achieve enlightenment for yourself and the people around you.)

1. What are the expectations I have for myself? - Four of Wands rx

For some reason, I feel that… You expect difficulties. You don’t expect or believe good things can come to you without lessons or pain. You believe in fairness and balance, that amazing things can only come to you if you put in the effort and work hard. Hence, you tend to not take certain opportunities either because you think you don’t deserve it or you don’t think you’re capable of it. In a sense, I’d say that this way of thinking has caused quite some conflict and tension, not allowing you to enjoy the peace and security you usually like. What has brought you comfort in the past is now hindering you to accept new happiness in.

2. Feasibility on achieving those expectations? - Seven of Cups rx

Seven of Cups is a card of illusion, but with it in reverse, it is a card of choice. This relates back to the first card pulled, the card to represent you. You know what to do, you are capable of doing it, but there’s fear holding you back. Or maybe, fears. To you, you’re not only jumping out of your comfort zone, but into a danger zone where you have no idea how to manage the risks. Accept your fears, let yourself fall, let yourself fail. Have courage, believe that you’ll still be able to stand up after the fall and grow better from it. You’ll be surprised with what you’re capable of.

3. What are my weaknesses and how do I compensate? - Death rx

This card here is very self-explanatory: You fear change. That’s it. You prefer stability over anything else, and you fear losing control over what you have. What is yours needs to remain yours. This may stem from insecurities that were caused by traumas when you were younger, may it be people leaving you, or being disappointed by others, or something else. It has definitely affected your thought process, your understanding of the world and your way around it. The first thing that came into my mind was therapy, because there are some deep-seated issues that you may have. You’ll need to identify your fear, the root cause of it, work it out, and step out to try something new, constantly regenerating yourself on the way.

4. What are my strengths and how do I get better at them? - Nine of Wands

You’re resilient. You may not think so, thinking that how you function is just the norm and everyone else does the same. No, you’re different. You have gone through a lot of things and those experiences help you manoeuvre yourself around the present issues, and you learn as you grind through the challenges presented. People may see you as an inspiration with how you manage to not dim your lights through the darkest nights. You need to know that you have a side like this, and that you’re able to encourage others through you being you. Shine. Accept yourself and shine brighter, be the inspiration you’ve wanted to be. You’ll be surprised with how things will fall in place and come to you.

5. What is it in adulthood that I should focus on? - Eight of Wands

I’d say building connections would help you in the long run. Eight of Wands is a card that talks about action, which is… Again, self-explanatory. But what sort of actions should you be taking? In what field? Connections and networking. I’d say most of you have a way with words, or some may even have 3H or 11H placements. By building a web of connections, you’re able to gather information and help from various parties that will help you to get on the right track. Some may even push you towards the direction that you want to head to. Be proactive in making friends, talking to people, and taking the first step. Once you throw yourself out, people will know you and will be able to provide the support you need. And then you can vroom your way.

6. What are the directions and advice that I need to know/hear? - Five of Pentacles rx

One comforting message here is that difficult times shall pass. You may think you overcame something but there’s more to work on, which you’ll realise that the issue you face is still affecting your decision making as of current. You’ve got to review your past and learn your lessons, know that you can’t afford to stay in this mindset for long. This card acts as a sign that it’s time for you to move from feeling insecure to a more adjusted mindset, which will be prompted when you see new perspectives. You will be receiving messages from your guides and higher selves in various forms. Trust your gut feeling, believe in every reason that makes you feel better.

Overall energy: The Tower, Five of Cups rx

The themes of lesson, growth and replacing things and values that no longer serve you. Liberation will come to you when you move past that phase that’s holding you back. Hmm… Lemme reword myself. This pile gives me the feeling of something promising is coming, but you’ll need to go through the lessons (aka accepting that good things can come to you without your expected cost, it’s alright to fail, the need to find out the root cause of insecurities, etc). Life will present opportunities to learn, and will bring in new people for you to grow together. You know you are loved. If you don’t know it, now you do. Believe it.

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Pile 2: Finally we begin

One card to represent you: The Empress

I would say that you have a gentle energy, you’re the person others go to when they’re feeling down or when they need some advice. You radiate a warmth that’s calming, providing a space of comfort for the hurt and wounded to rest and heal. You are intuitive, tho I have to say that your wisdom outshines it. It’s not just wisdom, it’s not just gentleness, but also a sense of belonging, a place where one returns to. Your intuition is what gives you the ability to see through things, people as well as the unknown. Some of you may have clair abilities, especially claircognizance. 

1. What are the expectations I have for myself? - Ten of Pentacles

I would say that you expect to build a life, build a family of your own, to be your own source of whatever you want. You do not want to rely on other people for things, especially financial abundance and happiness. You want to be your own provider so that you would feel secure with it, and that you’ll be able to contribute or give out what you have without needing to be conscious of how others look at you. There’s a hint of family themes among this, so it could also be you wanting to be the provider in your new found family without losing your own independence, if this makes sense.

2. Feasibility on achieving those expectations? - Ace of Swords rx

It’s doable, but it’s difficult. I feel that there’s quite some conflict between you and your family, resulting in you wanting to build a new family or to have your own found family. There’s this tension in you that is blocking a lot of blessings, I’d say. There’s a lack of clarity and undefined goals, preventing you from achieving success and happiness (depending on what you define them as). You will need to review your expectations, to set clear and measurable goals, only then you’ll be able to see your progress and further decide on how you want to proceed or to make changes along the way. Do not try to cover up facts or find excuses. You know that it’s not going to help you in the long run. Face it, accept it, work with it. 

3. What are my weaknesses and how do I compensate? - The Sun

Optimism is great, but being overly optimistic is not good. You tend to see the good side of things and may end up beautifying them, exaggerating them, or even fabricating them unconsciously. For some reason, I’m also seeing that you may be beautifying self-sacrificial tendencies, or attempt to attract people with your pain. You want to shine, want others to pay attention to you. Some of you may be prideful, but some would use whatever they’re “lacking” to attract attention. Example: Your friends use iPhone, and you use Android. Instead of saying you want to be different, you probably will go with the approach of “people who use iPhones are just keeping up with the trend and thinking that’s the higher end”, when in reality you can’t afford an iPhone. This is just an exaggerated example illustrated here for you to have an idea.

4. What are my strengths and how do I get better at them? - Death

Change is your forte. Some of you may not know it, but some of you do (and perhaps do not accept it). It’s not flexibility that we’re talking about, but more of an open-mindedness along with acceptance. Once you’ve overcome your weakness, you will be more open to listening to what others have to say, and forming your own opinion based on whatever information you’ve gathered (from others, from your own research, as well as updating outdated data). The transitioning phase will be smoother during then, when you shift from the old to the new. Right now, I’d say that there’s still a part of you who’s unable to accept that you’re wrong, or incorrect at certain things. There’s no fault in having pride over your knowledge, but if it is hindering you from improving, then you may need to work on that. 

5. What is it in adulthood that I should focus on? - The Emperor

Focus on your goals and what you want to achieve. For you, I’d say, one of your goals would probably be something that’s legacy related, may it be inheriting something (finance, career, skills, connections, etc.) or starting a new legacy (starting your own company, building network from scratch, starting to take up a very specific and niche role, etc.). I would also say that you’ll need to look straight ahead. The Emperor can’t afford to look around, only focusing on the path that’s in front of him where he tread carefully but boldly, carving the steps out for his people to follow (somewhat a legacy too). Do not be distracted, do not easily give in to temptation.

6. What are the directions and advice that I need to know/hear? - Eight of Cups rx

First thing I’d like to say is that your journey is going to be lonely. It’s not just going on that journey alone, but it’s something akin to a burden or a mission that you can’t tell anyone. You may have tried telling a family or a friend about it, and they don’t think it’s a big deal, resulting in you swallowing the pain alone, no longer willing to trust. The disappointment and disillusionment has uhhhh thicken around you. Think of them as fogs around you, and as they thicken, the more difficult it is for you to see your path. That. Communication with boundaries is very important for you right now, where you can put a balance between the socialisation and exposing yourself thoughtlessly. It’s difficult for some people, where you unknowingly overshare too much. Learn from it, find out a way that works for you. Open yourself to things, allow yourself to be open to inspirations from things and people around you.

Overall energy: Strength, Six of Swords rx

You’re strong, knowing where to go and how to reach your destination. Just that whatever that’s happening around you is preventing you from moving forward. You’re holding a lot of things back because whatever situations you’re in, but your passion and faith in life is strong enough to support you. You are doing your best with whatever you have right now, looking for opportunities in life’s challenges and learning the lessons. It is a difficult time, but have faith that things will turn for the better. Prepare your boat, and once the wind blows, set sail.

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Pile 3: No matter what I’m going my way, to the place I’ve dreamed of every night

One card to represent you: The Chariot

I would say that you’re someone who’s goal oriented. You know what you want and you'll work towards it. I would also say that you may be impatient at times, wanting to achieve things in a short time. It feels like you feel that you're running out of time, especially when you compare yourself to your peers. For example, people your age have been talking about career advancement while you're still figuring out what to do, or your friends are married with kids and you're still single and feeling miserable. You know you're on the right path at your own pace, and you appreciate your days and blessings, but sometimes you just feel anxious about being “left out”. 

1. What are the expectations I have for myself? - Three of Swords rx

You expect yourself to be healed from your wounds and traumas soon. You want it quick, you want it urgently, and you’re pushing yourself far more than you can deal with at the moment. You probably may have gone through some childhood traumas and you’ve left them as they are. It may be due to the society or environment you grew up thinking that whatever you experienced was normal (Asian families, perhaps?). You thought vulnerability was a fault until recent years, where you learn to accept and honour them, and from there you proceed to heal your inner wounds. You may have thought that once you’re done with Phase 1, you can immediately complete Phase 2 of your healing, and… Sorry to break it to you, it’s not gonna happen that way.

2. Feasibility on achieving those expectations? - Two of Swords

It feels like you’re asking yourself the question: Am I healed or not? And your answer to it is either yes or no. Which… Is not how healing works. Healing is a process; a journey, not a mathematical equation which is either right or wrong. You may think you’ve been healed but in reality, you may not have achieved that yet. You’re not seeing a lot of things yet, which is why you need to rely on your senses, especially hearing. You need to learn to listen to the whispers of others, may it be your friends or your guides. You are not alone, you have people accompanying you through this journey because you are loved. Healing is not linear, so take your time.

3. What are my weaknesses and how do I compensate? - The Fool rx, The Devil

I would say that you have expectations and you may think you’re living up to that, believing that you’re better and you live like it. … Lemme rephrase myself: You think you’re alright and that you’re living as how you expect yourself to be when you are not. It’s like you’re putting on a mask to deceive yourself and to show others that you’re doing fine. There’s this saying that you’ll need to fool yourself first if you want to fool your enemy. That’s you. You’re pretending and putting up an act, which will eventually cause your downfall to be greater than what you’ve experienced. Your insecurities are devils in disguise, which you probably know of. Now that you know of this side of yours, you will need to think and use your brain to figure out as you go. 

4. What are my strengths and how do I get better at them? - Four of Swords rx, Eight of Pentacles rx

I would say that you’re very action based, and you think a lot. One thing that’s special about you is that you know when to stop thinking. Unlike most people, once they start thinking, they spiral into their thoughts and have no way out. You, however, know when to stop and how to pull yourself out from that headspace. From there, you then use that energy and time to focus on earth-themed items, such as career, work, fame, building something, etc. You’re basically the healthy combination of brain and physical energy, making sure both of these aspects are taken care of, working on them when others are still trapped in their heads. If you think that you do not have this trait, maybe you can try it out. I believe all can achieve this, but your pile is able to tap into it easily as compared to others.

5. What is it in adulthood that I should focus on? - Four of Pentacles

Learning to focus on yourself, to put yourself first before others. I’m not sure if you’ve been called selfish for putting your needs above others, but you’re not. You can only share when you have extra/excess, and that’s when sharing becomes something comfortable and meaningful. Remember, you are not supposed to burn yourself to warm others. Let yourself have your own time, build connections with yourself and with others. Collaboration is something that you can work on, may it be work related projects or personal projects. Passion projects are things that will help you redirect your energy, and for you to keep yourself occupied when you realise your thoughts are jumbled up again with the excess energy.

6. What are the directions and advice that I need to know/hear? - Three of Cups

I would say that you will need to build your own home with people you trust in, with people you’re comfortable with. You may have gone through quite some family trauma, and your safe space may no longer lie with it. Remember, home is where the heart lies. As long as you feel comfortable, comforted and safe, you are home. For some reason, you may have been seen as the black sheep of your family. You have been told that you have great communication skills (may also have 3H placements), and it would be great if you know how to use that skill to its full potential. There’s more you can do with it, may it be drawing people to you, or drawing people away from people who harmed you. 

Overall energy: Judgement, Wheel of Fortune rx

I feel that you tend to judge yourself a lot, or people may have passed their biased judgement onto you when you’ve decided to not go their way. There are also some… Remnants? Of feelings of unjust? You have felt that life was unfair and things have not been going your way. Though you may have put that thought aside real quick cuz you believe in yourself more than what the stars or fate has said. You prefer to take things into your own hands instead of whatever higher beings there are out there, and I’d say that you’re doing a good job with it.

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Pile 4: I admit it now life is a long marathon, the difference is that I set the course

One Two cards to represent you: The High Priestess, The Lovers rx

The first word that came to me is intuitive. You know you’re intuitive and you have used your intuition on a lot of things that came into your life, may it be making decisions or using it to discern those who come close to you with agendas. But still, you probably have some… Troubles with love? Not necessarily romantic ones, but platonic and love towards yourself as well. For some reason, I feel that you may feel called to be a lover. It can be self love, but personally, I feel that the energy here is more outwards, where you are supposed to love others, and yet there’s no one out there deserving of your love. Some of you may have 12H or Pisces placement as well, which may give others an impression of being dreamy or drunk in love. (My logical head thinks so, but for some reason I’m feeling that heart-clenching feel, as well as a sense of loss. Not sure how to phrase it well tbh.)

1. What are the expectations I have for myself? - The Moon rx

Weirdly, for some reason, I’d say that you expect yourself to be… Different? You know you’re different and that you may sometimes feel that you are unable to align with how this world functions. Hence, when you feel you’re becoming too “earthly”, you may feel torn, because you expect yourself to do or achieve “unearthly” things, eg: to be a spiritual guru, to do reiki healing, etc. You are definitely one pile that is more prone to the spiritual side of the world, where you’ll often have a nagging feeling at the back of your head when you’re not doing anything of that sort. 

2. Feasibility on achieving those expectations? - The Empress

It is definitely something achievable, that is, if you focus on healing yourself as well as creating meaningful bonds with the people around you. One of the main themes of The Empress is to nurture, which you are called to not only nurture the people around you, but also to nurture yourself. You will also need to be with the right group of friends who will be able to help you flourish (and of course, you helping them as well, as this is a mutual relationship). I honestly don’t know what else to say about this because the message is repetitive, and I think you know it as well. 

3. What are my weaknesses and how do I compensate? - Two of Cups rx

This card in this position talks about tension, deception or even lack of trust between you and your spiritual side. For some reason, I’m feeling that you are holding too strongly to a certain thought or a belief. It causes stress and fatigue, making you lose hope in the process. Instead of taking a forced “temporary” approach, it would be better for you to reflect on what it brings you, and to let go of past beliefs that no longer serve you. Two of Cups is supposed to be a card of joyful celebration, a union between two parties. You will need to turn the card upright. It’s time to release the old and embrace the new, only then you’ll be able to grow into your very best self.

4. What are my strengths and how do I get better at them? - Six of Swords rx

I would say that one of your strengths is special, because it is not so to a lot of people. You do not let your problems push you, but you work your way with it. See, most people’s first reaction is to solve the problem or to run away from it, but you choose to live with it and rebuild your life around it. There’s a part of you that is unwilling to make your life a mess by running and avoiding the problems. You surrender. Not in a negative way. You surrender the pain and stress, you abandon the old, limiting beliefs, and you live in the present. The best way I can describe it is… It’s like you’re a monk, where you live with whatever that is happening around you. Waves (troubles and challenges) are around you, and you’re on the boat, keeping yourself calm, not bothering with what the world is doing, keeping your calm. It's like you know there's a life after death and that you're working on it right now instead of being present in the current earthly life.

5. What is it in adulthood that I should focus on? - Ace of Wands

Ace of Wands is the first card in the Minor Arcana. What I’m picking up from here is that you’ll need to create a new beginning for yourself. I wouldn’t say it’s The Fool kinda journey, because The Fool’s journey is of meeting people and learning the lessons on the way. Your kind of journey is understanding what you want, seizing opportunities, and turning your enthusiasm into actions. You have an idea of where you want to go, when you want to reach there, how you’re going to move, with whom you will want to travel on this journey. I would also say that it would be a great time for you to filter your circle so that you’ll be able to go on this journey with the least distraction.

6. What are the directions and advice that I need to know/hear? - Four of Pentacles rx This is a time where you should consider relaxing your mind and remember that you cannot control what others are doing or holding. You know you have enough, and instead of focusing on the action of others, focus on yourself instead and how you can block out the noises. With this done, you will be able to move from a period of control and fear and anxiety to a stage of being more open (and blank). It’s like… Once you are able to clear your mind, those noises no longer mean a thing to you, and you’ll be able to focus on yourself and what you want to achieve. I’m also picking up words like “zen”, “calm” and “enlightenment”. … Yeah the word “monk” too.

Overall energy: The Devil, The Chariot

I am feeling some self-sabotaging themes here. It may sound difficult to accept but I do think The Devil here talks about you, where you’re embodying some traits, thoughts or beliefs that you’re unwilling to let go. Y’know how some things turn toxic when there’s excess or if you hold onto it for too long? That. It’s burdening you and you probably are actively trying to run away from it. I’m having the image of you being annoyed at how you’re not progressing, and you end up flipping the table, scattering all the plans you’ve made for yourself. Probably some big changes are bound. Clear up the space and welcome your spirit guides to show up in wondrous and unexpected ways.

[kellynickelsgirl00]

A Chibs "Filip" Telford and OC Plus Size Reader Fanfic

Taglist: @youngadult9016 @tommyflanaganfan-blog @ravennaortiz @etclouie @privatetruths @theoutsiders25

CHAPTER 1: The Meeting

I pull into Tellermorrow Automotive parking lot and sigh getting out looking at the flat tire and the smoke pouring out from under the hood "God dammit i guess this is as good a place as any" I mumble softly and start walking up to the office and see a whole bunch of bikes and bikers and wave to them. As I get to the office a woman walks out and smiles looking at me and the truck behind me " Need some help there" she asks and points to the truck" yea I have a flat tire and some radiator problems, but I can fix the radiator some other day I just need a new tire" I smile and sigh alittle frustrated and look at her and she smiles and nods" well leave it there and I'll get one of the guys to pull it in" she smiles and lights a cigarette blowing the smoke up" so where you moving to" she asks looking at the truck" you look packed up are you staying or leaving here "' she laughs and I chuckle ' well I'm moving here it seems like because I told myself anything far away and wherever the car takes me .. I just needed a change needed to start a life for me and no one else ans most important I had to get away from my controlling piece of shit father " I sigh lighting my own cigarette " I don't have alot of money but I'm gonna do whatever I can and whatever I need to so I never go back.. unless it's to see my mom and brother of course but not for him" I sigh qnd blow some smoke up" come inside I'll have tje guys pull it in anf we can keep talking"' she puts her cigarette out and walks handing the keys to a mechanic "" have a seat it will be at least an hour since they're finishing up a car" she smiles and puts her glasses on " my names Gemma by the way' she shakes my hand and I smile ' I'm Louise Quinn" I smile softly and ait next to her on the couch " so is this a biker club and mechanic garage ' I smile looking around bouncing my leg nervous and picking at my fingers " I love bikes I had one rode alot and worked on alot wirh my grandpa till collage " I smile and keep rambling and she smiles "so you know how to work on bikes then and cars if you need to" she asks curious and I nod bouncing my leg and looking around more " do you know how to bartend ' she asks ans starts writing and I don't really think much of it and I nod smiling" that was actually my last job while I was in culinary school " I smile qnd sigh putting my cigarette out " quit both and now I'm here so I guess I can pretty much do anything I've had almost every job " I sigh and light another cigarette so nervous and worried " sorry I'm talking to much you're trying to work I'll be quite thank you again " I smile and pick at my nails looking around ad I smoke and she smiles' Here" she hands me a mechanic shirt and name tag that reads Lou " don't say anything " she shakes her head' just helping put one of the many misfits ' she smiles " you'll Also be working the bar in the clubhouse on weekends " she smiles ans stands up walking past me " follow me ill show you around the clubhouse ' she smiles and leads me through the parking lot through the door smiling and showing me around as I try to ignore all the eyes on me and she smiles " this is the bar and the girls as well as the club will help you get into the swing of things ' she smiles and hands me a key" your rooms in the back next to the room with Chibs on the door"' she smiles ' he'll be the one training you in the garage as well so if you need anything go to him or one of the girls he's one of the best guys " she smirks" handsome too" she whispers " I'm sure he'll like his new neighbor " she teasases and I laugh shaking my head "' all of this is enough I'm not wanting a blind date just yet ' I laugh and unlock the door " I'll save that for my next crisis "' I laugh joking and hug her" thank-you so much Gemma"' I smile " I will find some way to repay you and soon"' I smile and she nods and smiles ' just get settled next week is your big week"' she smiles leaving me alone in the room..

SUNDAY MORNING:

Getting ready i hear a knock on the door through my music and open the door seeing Gemma " Hi I'm sorry I'm running late " I ramble running around crazily' alarm didn't go off and thay was my fault because I never plugged it in" you sigh and huff growling alittle annoyed" slow down it's ok I'm just telling you the guys just got here and I was gonna introduce you to Chibs and the guys and maybe get to see how you like chibs while he shows you around the garage ' she sits on my bed and smiles " so you always dress like this I like it" she watches me slip my platform boots on and my Harley Davidson cropped mechanic shirt over my sports bra" yea I can now that I don't see my fucking dick of a dad everyday' I sigh " thank you I've always loved dressing different and like how I dreamed of living " I giggle and smile so big" I like it too and the boys will love it ' she winks" Chibs especially " she smirks " oh yea sorry no boys yet "she jokes and shakes her head" ok I'm ready but not for this date you clearly are pushing for " I laugh and walk out and see a bunch of guys and my jaw drops blushing and looking around nervously as they walk in and I wave so shy and blush because they're all staring at me and I look baxk and Gemma and point" chibs this is Louise the new girl I told you about' she smirks proud and I blush more starinf at him and he stares and looks me up and down making me cover myself with my arms and blush more" Hi I'm Louise" I hold out my hand and chibs smirks and lowers his glasses looking up from them and he kisses my hand and I pull aqay shy giggling and blushing more and the guys start whistling and clapping " Chibs putting the moves on her already " thwy all laugh and Gemma rolls her eyes hushing the guys " Gemma said you would show me around the garage and help me move in since I'm next door to your room" I smile and slide my hands in my pockets " Lass I will show you anything you want " he smirks and his voice is thick and Scottish making me blush and bite my lip looking at him" lll show you my room now "' he winks and looks me up and down again walking behind me waiting for me to follow and I chuckle " I said you would show mw the garage " I laugh" I don't think you work on bikes in your room now do you" I smirk and turn around facing him" if you do I didn't sign up to be your special room worker ' I smirk " I'm not that kind of girl not yet you don't know me yet " I flirt and walk out to the garage and they all whistle again and chibs stumbles over his words as I walk out and I chuckle lookin back seeing him running after me " oh good you know where the real garage is don't you scottish prince" I tease and chuckle " does that line usually work on the ladies " I tease more opening the garage door... he chuckles and smirks takinf his glasses off and hanging them from his vest " did you really think that line was gonna work on me " I smirk and chuckle " does it normally work' I tease and walk around lookiny at all the tools and chibs leans back on the work bench qnd smirks " usually works on all the pretty girls "' he winks and I laugh " I'm not that easy and thay was way to cheesy to work on me " I laugj qnd bite my lip" you can keep trying though maybe I'll surprise you" I smirk and pause " never know what will happen neighbor " I walk away and listen to him stumble over his words and just fo back to talkinf about tools and I giggle abs follow him desperately trying not to get weak in the knees hearing him talk and watching his hands ans arms in thay vest and I bite my lip and smile at him so innocent and shy teasing and flirting just enough" im listening " i mumble and see him adjust himself as he walks past and i giggle and catch someone out the corner of my eye staring and I wave and chibs sees me eyeing a prospect and steps back infront of me smirking " Lass are you listening' he teases and smirks " thays not the tool I'm talking about " he points to the prospect who's walking into the club house

I smirk and giggle biting my lip" don't go getting jealous chibby I like big strong real men" I rub and squeeze his arm as I talk and look him up and down' I might not be thay girl but I like to have fun and play with the boys " I gigfle and smirk winking " how about we finish this Monday I'll be on my best behavior I promise " I run my finger down his chest and smike up so innocent and sweet" I'll be a better listener then I promise handsome " I wink and walk past him walking away sexy so he stares and I look back " see ya round neighbor" I wave and walk right up to the prospect who's holding the door for me .." I'm in big trouble " I mumble to myself blushing anf fanning myself walking to my room...

[magic-coffee]

Before I start I want you to know that I'm not trying to come off as rude here. I just wanna inform you in a friendly manner, and I hope you answer this ask the same way :)

I feel like most of the liberals are talking about the Aryan MIGRATION theory, and not the AIT, because that one has been debunked like 3 decades ago.

Its the AMT that's the most consistent with the evidences *as of now*.

As for the "Pashupatinath" seal, there is still debate going on about it, but it mostly likely isn't Shiv due to his much later entry into the Hindu pantheon (we can see that he wasn't mentioned in the Rig Veda and the earliest Vedas as well). Also I'm pretty sure the Saraswati river is no longer considered a myth. So it's still assumed the IVC didn't have any religion to begin with (atleast not till the end of it when the AMT actually happened and the Aryans mingled with the IVC people *peacefully*, and so did the cultures). Also hopefully the findings of IVC being around 8000 years old would become true if we have enough evidence to factualize it.

Even the Dwarka case has been highly debated. Not saying that it wouldn't have existed but it's still been debated, since there have been accounts of many underwater cities, and hence it's not clear if it's Dwarka or some other city.

In conclusion I'm saying is that probably most of the leftists are talking about the AMT and not AIT (if they're still bringing up the latter then they're simply stupid atp), and we have the evidence of AMT in every way possible, at least now. Later on it might be a different story altogether.

Anyways what I'm trying to say is that history is a complex matter, and we can hypothesize all we want but at the end of the day a hypothesis has to go through a long series of stages and processes to be finally accepted as a fact. And yes I'm not saying there can be biases in this history field. We have seen it in the case of Max Muller and we know there are shitlings everywhere. But again, today the evolution of Hinduism and IVC is treated the same way they treat the Mayan civ., or the Greek civilization etc. So there's mostly (again, *mostly*) no bias in the field towards Indians today.

And hence with enough deep-rooted undeniable evidences in the future, who knows, maybe all of these hypotheses might come true.

(PS: Ignore my grammatical/spelling mistakes kindly thank you)

Firstly, we explicitly mention that the leftists use AIT here because they do. They are explicitly saying that “Aryans” came as invaders from outside and are oppressors. I've (and it's not too hard to find) seen multiple leftist blogs and channels claim that tribals are the one true natives which is absolutely stupid hence the post.

If they were talking about migration, then why are they harping about aryans being opressors and all upper caste = aryans?

Also please do some more reading before dismissing Shiva’s existence during and prior to the vedic era because there is mentions of rudra along side another deity as seen in mahamrityunjay mantra that talks about 3 eyed Shiva. Not just this, Karpur Gauram mantra is also in Yajur Ved. Contrary to your beliefs Shiva wasn't “added” later on.

Look up Rig Veda, Shiva Sankalpa Suktam, 18th Mantra.

Again, in Yajurveda

ईशानस्सर्वविद्यानां ईश्वरस्सर्वभूतानां ब्रह्मािधिपतिर्ब्रह्मणोऽधिपतिर्ब्रह्माशिवो मे अस्तु सदाशिवोम्।

Clear mentions of Ishana & Sadashiva.

Namaste Astu Bhagavan Visvesvaraya Mahadevaya Tryambakaya Tripurantakaya Trikaagni Kaalaaya Kaalaagni Rudraya Nilakanthaya Mrityunjayaya Sarvesvaraya Sadasivaya Sriman-Mahadevaya Namah.

In shri rudram.

Which again, if you leave it upto Experts they will debate it to be something entirely different, just as seen in Sanauli Archelogical findings and Pashupatinath or "Pashupatinath" seal, three headed deity in a yogic pose. Ayodhya site is still "disputed" according to some "experts". Biases are very much still alive.

"He approached the brhati meter, and thus the Itihasas, Puranas, Gathas andNarasamsis became favorable to him. One who knows this verily becomes the beloved abode of the Itihasas, Puranas, Gathas and Narasamsis." (Atharva Veda15.6.10–12)

तमि॑तिहा॒सश्च॑ पुरा॒णं च॒ गाथा॑श्च नाराशं॒सीश्चा᳚नु॒व्य᳡चलन्॥११॥ इ॒ति॒हा॒सस्य॑ च॒ वै स पु॑रा॒णस्य॑ च॒ गाथा᳚नां च नाराशं॒सीना᳚ञ् च प्रि॒यं धाम॑ भवति॒ य ए॒वं वेद॑ ॥१२॥ He went away to the great region. Itihāsa and Purāṇas and Gāthās and Nārāśaṃsīs followed him. He who possesses this knowledge becomes the dear home of Earth and Agni and herbs and trees and shrubs and plants. ~ Atharva Vēda (Śaunaka Śākhā), Pañcādaśa Kāṇḍam, Ṣaṣṭhaḥ Sūktam.

This and many other verses tell us to not dismiss significance of Purana, Puranas detail lore and revelations of Lord Shiva has himself a puran dedicated to himself and finds mentions in almost all puranas. Although with no writer of Ved it can be assumed all its knowledge must've been passed down orally for a much longer time. Agni, Indra, Mitra etc are widely talked deities in veds but they're barely worshipped today, i suppose that's how practices evolve - maybe 2000 yrs from now nobody will remember Krishna (ouch). I don't personally think puranas are something foreign because they don't contradict or demean Vedas they're based on them and respect the texts properly

^ this one is believed to be the oldest shivling about 4,300 yrs old found in kalibangan only

Even Swastika was found in the Indus Civilization.

I still haven't found one person that vouch for AIT or AMT not deny indigenity of Hindus, shocked and pleasantly surprised that you did. (Reveal thy secret) However, you claim there are ample evidence of AMT yet you didn't link any. While we're onto that, there is infact mentions of out-of-india migrations in ved itself, but no scripture (unless hey we figure out indus script!) talk of intrusion of a foreign Aryan group.

There was a comment made by a Tambram in my older post where they confirm AIT is used to deny their indigenity to india almost wildly!

And thank you for accepting that the Saraswati is no longer considered a myth because it confirms the older datings of rig veda and how it is much older than presently assumed, which is way earlier than the proposed timeline of the arrival of “aryans” into India (*side-eyeing muller*).

Maybe tomorrow we figure out something else, debates are good, I'm not cementing my beliefs about anything, there is always a chance of finding out even more about something. I'm open to reading evidences abt AMT, send them in.

[ac-fandom]

This is the continuation of my previous One-shot (which can also be found here), so I recommend you read that first and then come back here, and happy reading!!

P.s. This entire story takes place in Inazuma 11 GO Galaxy

-----------------------------------------------------------

POV: Chiara Sharp

I looked at my watch and remembered that I had to go and pick up Lu from Raimon (Lu is the nickname given by Chiara to Lucian), but I felt a little guilty for not having said goodbye properly to the guys from Resistance Japan, they had all been so sweet and helpful, especially Quentin...

But my feelings of guilt would have waited because papà (Jude) ("papà" in italian means dad) scolding me because I had forgotten to take Lucian scared me a little more...

~~~TIME SKIP AT RAIMON~~~

POV: 3 person

As usual on sunny days the Raimon football team was training in the open field under the supervision of coach Mark Evans and the advisor Celia Hills and the two managers Rosie Redd and Jade Greene.

"Okay guys you can take a break!" Coach Evans shouted to his players, who looked at him with a proud look, "alright coach!" the boys replied at the same time as they headed towards the bench where both Celia and the managers handed them water bottles full of water and towels, some sat on the floor, others on the benches while only one player remained astonished in his thoughts, Lucian.

"Lucian, are you okay?" the boy turned and looked up slightly and met the gaze of the Raimon goalkeeper Sangoku taichi, one of the third year veterans, "oh yes! it's just that i had to leave training early and soon they'll come get me and-!" "Lucian are you feeling sick?" Wanli, another veteran and close friend of the purple-haired attacker, also enters the conversation, "oh no no no!, don't worry, it's not because of that, it's just that my new parents wanted to have an afternoon with the family, that's all!" the younger one hastily replied to the lawyer who he now considers like an older brother, "ah well I was worrie- wait... you told your new parents what do you mean?!" asked the defender with a mixture of bewilderment and curiosity at the attacker's words.

the smaller one looked at the two older ones, with curious puppy eyes and tilting his head slightly, "well yeah, didn't I tell you?" and at this response Wanli falls in full anime style (sorry but I had to put it🤣🤣), Sangoku sighed slightly due to his friend's reaction and then looked at the shorter one "no Lucian, you didn't say it or at least not to us..." he said sketching a smile and then gave his hand to the defender who was still on the ground to help him get up, Wanli spoke again "anyway who are your new parents?" the purple-haired veteran asked curiously "oh well I am... um how can I put it..." while the boy was trying to find the right words, the rest of the team was also interested in the conversation, occasionally casting a few glances to the others, even the managers had become interested after hearing Adè say to Eugene "for me Lucian's adoptive parents will be someone important, in your're?" "I don't know, but i kind curious now" replied the boy with glasses looking in the direction of poor Lucian,with the whole football club is like that, except Mark and Celia who already knew the new surname or rather the new surnames of Lucian, they all become curious even the most stoic of all Michael.

Lucian took a deep breath and then said loudly, "my new parents are Jude Sharp and David Samford!" as he closed his eyes and then slowly began to open his right eye and look at the shocked faces of his team mates,the first to speak or rather shout was Jade "you're telling us that you are now the son of two very important players of the former Inazama Japan like this!?!" waving her arms and making Ryouma's ears bleed as he was next to her at the time to get his water bottle.

"Emmh yes?" the little one whispered, "finally someone else related to two members of inazuma japan we could make a club about this" Aitor spoke, placing his right arm on the boy's shoulders and then continued but in a low voice in the purple boy's ear "but you could have told me before eh...de un estúpido amigo mío" Lucian looks at his best friend with a sorry smile for not having told him of the news, but with the departure of inazuma Earth and the rest, he hadn't had time to tell the good news of the adoption by of the new family of Samford and Sharp.

"Aitor leave him alone" ordered the team captain Gabriel or nicknamed Gabi, to his new boyfriend "still being a spoilsport, eh captain?" "shut up subspecies of alley cat" the boy with golden eyes made a surprised look and then began to affectionately insult himself with what he said was 'pink pigtail barbie' or similar adjectives worthy of Aitor Cazador Schiller Greenway Foster.

and while the two defenders were arguing as described by Adè, an "old couple of lovers".

Chiara arrived at Raimon JR. High school, after asking around where the school's first team was, she arrived at the steps that led to the field, went down the steps carefully, and then get to the end of it, approaching the younger brother still with his back turned to watch his best friend argue against the new captain.

knowing Lucian's unawareness of her, Chiara decided to play a little "prank" on him, so she tipped off the violet and hugged him and said "Lucian!" the poor boy, feeling himself taken from behind, suddenly got tired and shouted in a very high pitched way, causing all his classmates to turn their gazes as they looked at him, not understanding the reason for the shout, only to find himself in front of a tall girl with blonde hair and two pools of bright aqua green as eyes.

Lucian put his right hand to his heart trying to calm down, when he recognized his sister with a toothy smile for the joy of the successful joke, "sorry Lu but I couldn't resist the opportunity!" the girl spoke, trying to hold back the laughter caused by the minor's reaction.

"Who the hell are you, blonde?" Michael shouted at the unknown girl, "Kaiser, a little politeness, please..." Sangoku stated, scolding the attacker who in response rolled his eyes which made the older sigh heavily, who looked back at the girl with curiosity and hadn't made the slightest move at Michael's question, waiting as if for her turn to speak.

"don't worry, in fact I'm the rude one for not introducing myself properly and taking my brother by surprise from behind" Chiara replied smiling and with her cheeks reddened by embarrassment, "anyway I'm Chiara but you can call me Kia, Lucian's older sister, nice to meet you!" she continued making a small bow.

POV: SANGOKU

I was dazzled by the girl, who had just introduced herself as Lucian's older sister, she was most likely my age but maybe even a little older, she had bronze blonde hair mixed with dirty blonde.

She had delicate facial features, like every girl but with something different perhaps deriving from the fact of the dimples on her cheeks when she smiles, but especially the wonderful petrol eyes framed by thin glasses.

I was enchanted by them and her smile but there was another thing that was her accent well camouflaged except when she said her name, the girl probably came from Europe...

but my thoughts were interrupted by a laugh coming from Lucian "don't worry big-sister, it happens! Anyway I'm going to get ready and I'll be right back" said Lucian, I always found him adorable like a younger brother, but then he went towards the dressing room.

"Okay Lu, but hurry up, I don't want to be late!" Chiara replied, ruffling the boy's hair, then turning to the team, smiling, then having a surprised expression.

POV: 3 PERSON

"I don't believe it Roma! You're part of Raimon, how are you? It's been ages since we've seen each other!" said the blonde approaching Ryouma who at first was confused, "wait do we know each other? Because I don't remember you..." the midfielder replied embarrassed scratching the back of his neck, "are you serious? But we were also in the same team..." Chiara was a little hurt by Ryouma's answer but understood that some time had passed, "WAIT NOW I REMEMBER! Damn you've changed!" Ryouma suddenly approached the girl to see her better "damn sorry, I didn't recognize you without braces and with your hair loose! you've changed a lot!" the girl started smiling again, "then you changed your glasses! You are completely different from how I remembered you..." the boy continued, "Thanks Roma but you haven't changed at all!" Chiara laughed putting a hand to cover her laughter and then looked towards the direction of the manger "you must be Jade Redd right? Ryouma told me a lot about you!" Ryouma blushed violently, and the red-haired girl's response was a loud laugh.

Then an "I KNEW IT" came out from Adè who was immediately glared at by Jade and then chased across the entire soccer field.

the Italian looked at them dumbfounded while the majority of the team watched the hilarious scene "did I talk too much?" She asked, "no don't worry they would have done it anyway but even if your intervention" the girl turned to the male voice, "well I thought I had made a mess, anyway you must be the goalkeeper, right?" the girl asked with a hint of irony pointing to the different uniform of the other players to Sangoku, "yes I'm Sangoku taichi pleased to meet you" the boy replied smiling, which was returned by the girl.

"The pleasure is all mine, I'm really happy to meet the famous Raimon goalkeeper" the Italian replied and then continued with a hint of hesitation in her voice "and I wanted to ask you if you could help me with...well I'm not from here so if you could help me find the restaurant where Lucian and I are supposed to meet our parents I would be really grateful of course if it doesn't bother you, basic directions are enough for me!" the girl replied with the required blush of embarrassment all over her face, Sangoku smiled "that's fine, I know the city well, anyway what's the name of the restaurant so I can tell you where it is?".

Chiara said the name of the restaurant, and then took a notebook and pencil from her shoulder bag and wrote down the directions given by the boy.

Even after he finishes giving her directions to the restaurant, the conversation between the two continues lovingly, as if they have known each other all their lives.

But the moment ended, when Lucian returned dressed in a lilac shirt and dark blue trousers with white shoes with lilac laces, "I'm ready, big sis!" Lucian exclaimed as he approached the couple, "oh, yes of course Lu!" she said turning to her brother, then looking back at the taller boy still next to her, "well see you, Sangoku it was a pleasure talking to you" she greeted the boy by giving him a ticket in his hands and then taking her brother by the arm and saying goodbye to the rest of the team and heading towards the school exit.

Sangoku opened the note to find the girl's phone number with a note with a heart "call if you want <3", and he sighed softly with a dreamy look at the paper.

"This girl is really something..." he thinks before putting the ticket in his pocket and returning to the field.

[shut-up-rabert]

Do you think the Aryan Invasion Theory is true? I watching Mahabharata (star plus) and they kept using Aryavarta which reminded me of the Aryan race that Hilter used and so I did a little research and obviously he had no idea what he was talking about but what I found on the theory was a bit unsettling. I always believed that Hinduism/Sanskrit/Vedas originated in India (Indus Valley) but this theory seems to have genetic research to support it and it set off my whole belief system and gave me an identity crisis for some reason

Well, I am not really big on this theory because it has zilch proof to it as far as I have seen, only theories.

A simplified take on the same is the Indian Express article on Rakhigarhi excavation.

Other than that, there was this lengthy India Today article on the same excavation that gave me a headache because it won’t go to the fucking point, but I suppose it is in favour of the theory? I don’t know man, it’s fucking long and I did not read it all, just understood that IVC people from 4500 were native and that apparently we have outsider DNA.

There is no proof of any migration other than those based on change in genetic make up, a more plausible theory of which I explain later.

The interesting thing is, that the said Aryan invasion Theory first pinned us to be central asians from 1500BC and now we are Iranian farmers. It completely ignores the fact that Indians have little genes in common with Europeans who we supposedly come from moreso with South Indians (and I mean much more, we have almost the same gene combination except a few), and seems as if the India today article, based on the same premise of “Aryans had this one gene (r1 to be more specific) common with Iranians that Indus people did not have” fails to realise that people from the northwest of Indian subcontinent can have common genes with the bordering land for other reasons aswell because no shit sherlock, people fuck💀

I mean, how else do you explain the much higher genetic connection to south indians?

Another factor they use for the theory is the simultaneous developement of modern day Hinduism and Zorastrianism, but that too can be chalked upto influence rather than migration, given that Hinduism is actually older by a little margin (oldest living religion) and for the theory to be true, the migration should have gone westward instead.

Heck, the influence thing can easily exclude the theory altogther, because Iran is close to what are now the areas of IVC, and them slowly influencing the culture during or after IVC when they became more civil, (in 4000BC) or us doing the same, or even intermixing of the two will make more sense than AIT.

The migration of these Aryans cannot be proven otherwise aswell because there lies no proof for same. Literally none. The archeologist in the India today article and few others uphold it yet are unable to prove it beyond circumstantial evidence that makes more sense when turned against the theory rather than its favour, like the Iranian thing I mentioned. It might also very well be a migration to eastwards in Hind from the western part, because the Vedas were written before the supposed “Vedic Aryan invaders” happened and they are clearly neither Monotheistic nor Tribal, and align more with the Indic religions, so I digress they came from Central Asia or Iran.

Plus, the Vedas were written by the "aryans" on banks of saraswati, and the saraswati dried up centuries before they "destroyed IVC and took over". Another interesting thing is that Saraswati flew through the IVC sooooo.... yeah, maybe it all can be summed up to people fucking🫠

The thing is, we are locals, this culture was very much developed here on this land. Vedas, Sanskrit, Sanatan, there is a reason you do not see traces of them elsewhere, and I am certain this theory is BS because of the little I have read, because it has nothing to prove for itself.

But other than that, this particular subject was never of my interest because of how lengthy it was, and I fucking sucked at history, so may I suggest asking others who do think of this topic as often. I only know @tiananmen-square-orgy to be my nerdy mutual on this topic, and if finnie cannot help you I'll try geting you connected to a friend who is not on tumblr yet can help becuase of his extensive knowledge.

[highspeedsblog]

Here is my disclaimer, here's your one chance to run away. Don't get all offended after this. Your risk, not mine. What you are about to read is some truth, from one Operation Iraqi Freedom II veteran, although the end of the series may come as a bit of a surprise.

Do you know how hot it gets in Iraq? One-hundred-and-thirty fucking degrees, at least. One of my battle buddies used to say, "Its hotter than all balls!" No lie, it is for fucks sake. 

I joined the Army AFTER 9/11, real genius move. I went in having a Quartermaster job, 92G. Yes, yes, a goddamn cook. Why? Because pushing back my ship date cost me my slot as 54B, NBC (Nuclear Biological and Chemical). So, I took the next best thing, a big bonus.

Basic Training, check.

AIT, check.

Report to duty station in Wurzburg, Germany, check.

Deploy to Tikrit, Iraq on Mother's day 2004, fucking check.

In-process in Kuwait for two hellish weeks. Hurry up and wait, story of a soldiers life. Check.

Land in Tikrit, check.

Settle in at my living quarters....in a marble palace in Sadaam's hometown? Holy hell...

These palaces that we lived in were unbelievable. Marble. Gold. Crystal. One square mile of luxury, while outside those walls were desolate. Power outages were rolling. Water was dirty. Us? We were all pretty fucking rough, chain-smoking, gutter-mouthed, horny bastards that had each other's back in life, and in death. To this day, I'd trust my battle buddies with my life, because it just doesn't get any more real than that. Even if I haven't seen them or talked to them in years, there still lies that special bond. Blood and guts, no question.

On a daily basis, temperatures rose well above a hundred degrees. We wore our full battle at all times because The Big Red One was held to higher standards. Those higher standards nearly gave us heat stroke on a daily. DRINK MORE WATER! Hydrate fucker! So much fucking water. 

Full Battle Rattle consisted of full DCUs, flak vests weighing in at 20lbs maybe? And that's without add ons. On top of that was usually a camel pack with at least a half gallon of water, give or take. Six magazines of 5.56 rounds in Molly gear also attached to that flack vest. You have your standard M16A2 on a three point sling, eight pounds. On top of our already hard-headed noggin, a Kevlar helmet. Couple pounds. By the end of each day, lovely, thick salt rings in/on/through our DCUs.

On top of that shit, we were peppered with mortars and RPGs every fucking day, more than once, more than twice. Them hajis would drive over the bridge crossing the Tigris River with a dude, or woman.......or teenager......in the back ready to sit up and fire in hopes of blindy taking one of us, or some of us, out with a bang. It got to the point that it happened so much that we stopped ducking and diving. We wished a motherfucker would, cause they'd have hell to pay. When an RPG crosses about a foot in front of your face while scootin down the road, it pisses you off so much so that you turn around, head back to point A, kick a fucking door open, sit in front of a cooler with a cigg hanging out your mouth, and contemplate a whole scenario of blood and guts, not your own either. If only they were close enough....

**Break**

I think about this today. From what I can gather, in all my non-scientific-scientific-next-best-educated-life-experience-guess, is that we were out there for approximately 365± days, living on pure adrenaline, 24/7 in some form or another. So after a while, THAT becomes your body's "normal," then you get shipped back to duty station, asked a couple questions, deemed safe and normal, and then shipped for thirty-day leave and expected to adjust to normal civilian life with your family and kids and shit. The government failed us, oh so badly.

**Break**

Then, one day, they say, "S******! You'll be training on the .50cal, get ready!" I think, "How you figure?" But there I go......

[just-some-random-blogger]

bestiEEEEE AYOOOO????????????????? NEW HYPERFIXATION?

first of all, kaleb keeps getting mentioned and i can only assume he is the canon mormont in existence during this time. slay kaleb, thx for being the point of reference for sarra.

second of all, when i first saw this post i was like oh okay sara snow sis to cregan WRONG. OC BAM! slayed

NOW

Quiet and reserved but beautiful

THE FUCK YOU MEAN BUT?

WHAT IS THIS BUT ???? WOMEN CANT BE QUIET AND BEAUTIFUL ??? BUT THEN IM SURE SHE CANT BE LOUD AND BEAUTIFUL EITHER I HATE IT HERE FUCK THE PATRIARCHY

Sarra was not scared away by his condition nor his demeanor, willing to accept him as he was without judgment and treat him like an actual person, and that was enough for him to ask for her hand.

poor larys met with the barest minimum and it got him smitten. anyway when i first read this i actually thought she was smitten over the clubfoot i was like ok purr slay. L reading comprehension fr

Her parents eagerly agreed, and by the age of 15 (?)

hate that for you mama

me @ the patriarchy

Sarra wasn’t exactly thrilled with the match

and this was the part where i was like oh i thought she was into the cane

Larys admired her hidden cunning and quiet nature, as Sarra did his.

ok come through secretly in love with me spouse trope

Things only got worse when Sarra lost their first child, a son.

WHY WOULD YOU DO THIS THERE WAS NO REASON TO DO THIS? (i say as i write a soon to be 25 part angst where my readers want me to pay their therapy bills HAHAHH)

Twice more, Sarra became pregnant with sons, and twice more, she lost them.

DAMN SHE STILL GOIN

Eventually, she did have a child with Larys, a daughter named Elyana

THEY HAD SEX AT LEAST THREE TIMES?

But no sons came from their union. It seemed as if the gods had cursed her to never have an heir.

no. why is it also cursed *her* why not *him* have you ever thought he may be *a piece of shit*

She wanted to keep her daughter, and Helaena’s, who she knew were her cousin’s grandchildren, safe at all costs.

HELAENA DEFENDERS rip jaehaerys you would have loved father-son activites

Things changed for Sarra when Gwayne Hightower arrived in King’s Landing.

THINGS DEFINITELY CHANGED WHEN THIS SUAVE FUCKER MADE HIS DEBUT

IMAGINE LIVING IN KINGS LANDING THEN ONE DAY ✨GWAYNE✨HIGHTOWER✨

The two were instantly smitten with one another, and Sarra began to meet him in secret (although Larys was well aware of what she was doing).

OH AND I OOP HE WAS LIKE

OUR dirty little secret

At some point, Sarra became pregnant with Gwayne’s children, and she later gave birth to the twins, Arra and Rodrick Waters. Larys knew of their true parentage.

SHE WHAT???? HAHHAH WOMEN IN MALE DOMINATED FIELDS SHE REALLY SAID ME A STRONG AITE BET: BASTARDS SPAWNED AHHAHAHAAH IM CRYING

Sarra witnessed Gwayne being murdered during the Sack of King’s Landing,

😀✋ she what

as she had been running to find him, and was killed shortly afterwards in the chaos.

😀 ROMEO AND JULIET WHO?

Larys had her buried at Harrenhal and wore black for weeks after her death. He would not admit it, but he had loved her dearly and felt her loss like an open wound.

): poor larys. oooooh the angst is immaculate.

Mormont OC! I've been thinking about my Mormont babe, so I must be told about yours

Kiss your forehead I am happy to oblige😌

Sarra Strong née Mormont

Sarra is the daughter of Lord Bennard Mormont and his wife, Mellara Mallister. She is Kaleb’s cousin on his mother’s side, as her father and his mother are siblings.

Quiet and reserved but beautiful, Sarra was well sought after, not just by the lords of the North. One of her suitors was Larys Strong, the crippled heir of Harrenhal. Sarra was not scared away by his condition nor his demeanor, willing to accept him as he was without judgment and treat him like an actual person, and that was enough for him to ask for her hand. Her parents eagerly agreed, and by the age of 15 (?) she had become Lady Strong and was whisked away to King’s Landing.

Sarra wasn’t exactly thrilled with the match but she did her duty and believed that perhaps she could someday grow to truly love her husband. And to some extent, she did. Larys admired her hidden cunning and quiet nature, as Sarra did his. They respected each other, and they did love each other in their own ways. But it was ultimately not enough.

Things only got worse when Sarra lost their first child, a son. The couple was devastated. Twice more, Sarra became pregnant with sons, and twice more, she lost them. Eventually, she did have a child with Larys, a daughter named Elyana. But no sons came from their union. It seemed as if the gods had cursed her to never have an heir.

While her husband was a part of the Small Council, Sarra served as one of Alicent’s ladies. She was a close companion and confidant of the queen, and her close relation to Kaleb certainly helped. If anyone could keep the queen’s secrets, it was Sarra.

During the Dance, Sarra plotted alongside her husband and Alicent. She wanted to keep her daughter, and Helaena’s, who she knew were her cousin’s grandchildren, safe at all costs.

Things changed for Sarra when Gwayne Hightower arrived in King’s Landing. The two were instantly smitten with one another, and Sarra began to meet him in secret (although Larys was well aware of what she was doing). He gave her something her husband could not, excitement and affection. And it certainly helped that he was the most handsome man she had ever laid eyes on.

At some point, Sarra became pregnant with Gwayne’s children, and she later gave birth to the twins, Arra and Rodrick Waters. Larys knew of their true parentage.

(The part that follows might change)

Sarra witnessed Gwayne being murdered during the Sack of King’s Landing, as she had been running to find him, and was killed shortly afterwards in the chaos.

Larys had her buried at Harrenhal and wore black for weeks after her death. He would not admit it, but he had loved her dearly and felt her loss like an open wound.

[badwithten]

Lock Down | CHRISTMAS EVEL - STRAY KIDS ADVENT CALENDAR

PAIRING Felix x fem!reader

GENRE horror

WORD COUNT 1.1k

SYNOPSIS Despite being locked inside your family's farm house due to the poor weather conditions outside, life couldn't be better. Nothing but you, Felix and a cosy environment to spend time with the person you loved the most. All is well until you start to hear movement outside in the snow storm. But with the worsening conditions, there's no way for any human to survive out there. So who keeps knocking on the door? 

A/N yo this one low key sucks but im tired lol love you kisses

MASTERLIST

“Ah Felix” Your dad is as loud as ever from the front porch, he looks like a dog waiting for his owner to arrive, getting excited when he sees the car pull up. But to be fair, Felix is just as excited, climbing out of his seat as soon as you turn off the vehicle. Pulling your boyfriend in for a tight hug while you wait for your turn patiently. “Come here Y/N”

“Thanks for having us sir” Felix knows that your dad adores him. Like any father, he was worried about letting a man into his daughter's life, and with your history of dating, it was easy to see why. Too many times had you come home in tears due to another boy breaking your heart. But with Felix, you never needed to worry about that. He was gentle and loving, so full of joy that he would outshine the sun. 

“Ah you know you don’t need to call me that” Felix ate it right up, unlike any of your previous boyfriends, he wanted to be with your family, spend time and bond with them. You couldn't have got any luckier. “Y/N your mum's upstairs if you want to go say hi, we got this” You left them to it, a warm safe feeling in your chest as you walked to see your mother. 

The crackling of the fire took over your mind while the white of the snow falling outside the window covered your vision. Both like the static of an old TV, it kept you occupied. Felix was struggling to keep up with the drunk rambling of your father, although his nodding and laughter were enough to keep him entertained. Your mother sat at her large lazy boy chair, legs warmed by the fire as she read her book. You sat next to her, mind floating away, head truly empty. This was a luxury you were rarely afforded, work and school kept your life busy and chaotic. So the peace you were so lucky to have at this time was something you weren't going to take for granted. You were safe with these people, the ones you loved the most. With your mind lost and your heart warm, your vision began to blur as your eyelids fell shut. Sleep quickly bought you under. 

“Y/N? Y/N?” A soft voice slowly awakened you, repeating your name over and over until your eyes peeled open. “Y/N” His cheeks were full of freckles and blush looking down at you from his standing position. With his eyes bright and almost covered by his smile. 

“How long was I asleep for?” You pull yourself up, stretching out your back as he comes to ait on the arm of the chair, curling into your side as if he was a cat. Although his hair was bleached and damaged, it still was soft and tickled your neck.

“Not long, your dad crashed through. Your mum and I just took him up to his room” He laughed against your skin.

“I’m sorry you had to deal with that” You pull your head away, not allowing him to hide his face anymore. With a pout, you lean in and give him a kiss.

“It’s ok” He kisses back, breathless at your beauty. “Let's go to bed, there's a storm picking up”

Although your parents' winter home was large enough for everyone to have their own bed, you and Felix preferred the privacy of the cabin at the back of the property. It was a large piece of land that you were grateful your parents had invested in. Allowing you a lot of freedom and adventure through the forest it contained. The cabin you claimed as your own sat just behind the tree line. You could see the front porch of where you would be staying, but the path took you off of the open field. 

It was small, being one open room with a bed, kitchen and a bathroom heading off of the bedroom. But the intimacy it allowed with your parents was special and could not be replicated anywhere else. You were alone with him. Which made the knocking at your door even scarier.

You had been sleeping when it first started, but after your nap, you were only half asleep when the knocking began. At first, you assumed it was your parents but you knew they had a key and that they would let themselves in. So you rolled back over. But when the knocking continued you grew worried. With your sleep disturbed you got up, flicking on the lamp next to you and heading towards the locked door. But the sight outside stopped you. The storm really had picked up. Your parents weren't dumb enough to head out into the storm. Yet you were miles away from any other form of life. Your hand rested over the door handle, contemplating whether to turn it and let whoever was outside, in. The knocking was persistent, beating at the same time as your heart. 

It was more shocking to hear the knocking stop, maybe it was the wind knocking something around. You let out a breath you didn't know you were holding, relief washing over you. Returning to bed, your hands rub over your face, trying to calm down from the false alarm. Felix turns, still sleeping peacefully in the dimly lit room. The sounds of his soft snores are interrupted by a rattling. With a sharp turn, you look to where you know it's coming from. Instead of asking for permission to come in, whoever, whatever is out there is now insisting. Shaking the door with such vigour you worry the entire door might come loose. 

“Felix?” It's now your turn to wake up, he's quick to sit up, hair flat to his head. Although he's sitting up, he's hardly awake, eyes still stuck shut. You grab his warm hand, holding it close for comfort. “There's someone out there”

“What?” His voice is harsh and doesn't make any connections to his thoughts. 

“Lix!” Slightly raising your voice allows him to slowly realise the real panic you're experiencing. 

“Y/N look” He points towards the window, the wind howls against the glass and hard pieces of snow snap past. “It's a blizzard out there. There's no one anyone will be out there ok, it's just the wind” He tries to comfort you, bringing your hand to his mouth to give it a kiss before lying back down.

He falls asleep with ease, leaving you to fester in your own panic. But when the rattling of the door continues yet no effort is made to break in, you start to calm. Maybe it really is just the wind. Once again, you laugh at your own mad thoughts. Your eyes grow heavy once again, the comfort of the soft pillows around you luring you back into a deep sleep.

Just as your eyes shut, you hear the door creak open. When did the wind get footsteps?

[bowandcurtsey]

Hiii! Can I ask for a oneshot of Asta and Liebe x Bubbly!reader. I don’t really know what the plot should be about so I’m leaving it up to you, but make it very fluffy!!

Ahh more Asta & Liebe, my sons (´｡• ᵕ •｡`) ♡ I'll try to make it as fluffy as possible aite!!

Also here's another Asta & Liebe x reader work! It has 2 parts and it's a multiverse! Do enjoy!

TW: unchecked work!

Asta & Liebe x f! Reader

Well since Liebe and Asta were always together, you somehow found yourself dating the both of them.

It was a well deserved day off for the boys after a particularly long mission and Liebe’s favourite thing to do is lay on your lap while you carry on with your work; reading, writing, it doesn’t matter. As long as you were sitting, he’ll have his fluffy white hair nuzzling into your lap.

Asta never really understood what off days meant. He was still exercising, running around the house, doing chores, cleaning and cooking brunch for the 3 of you.

“Asta~” you cooed, “come cuddle with us for a bit! I missed you!”

“Gimme a second, I’ll make a trip down to the grocery store sweetheart!” he gave you his sunshine grin.

Liebe couldn’t care less but when he took a peak from under his sleepy eyelids, he saw that you were pouting and that Asta wasn’t paying attention, the short fuse in him snapped.

“Oi. The princess says cuddle. So drop whatever and come here.” He barked at Asta, “not like I enjoy squeezing with you, what are you busy with anyway!”

“We left on a mission for so long so there’s a lot of errands to run, if we cuddle now, we’ll probably delay a lot longer and then the stores might close, so let me run to the store first and -”

“Geez could you just relax for one day? It’s really not in your blood huh.” Liebe rolled his eyes.

“Well, if you could help a little, everything could he done in half the time?” Asta said matter of factly.

“Eh, what’s more important? It is y/n or whatever little errands you need to run?”

“Okay okay,” you cut the two off, trying to dissipate the spark that would eventually turn into fire, you looked at Asta giving you his puppy eyes, telling you he was wronged by his brother, “let Asta go Liebe..”

“Y/n, sweetheart, you known that you’re more important to me right?” Asta pouted a little, “I’ll cuddle with you when I’m back.”

“Tsk, wonder why y/n loves you..” liebe shrugged.

“Liebe!” You punched his cheeks, “let’s appreciate Asta for doing all the chores for us so we could chill like this~”

You beckoned for Liebe to get up, “let all head to the grocery store together!!”

“No!” “OKAY!”

The brothers said at the same time.

“Why not Liebe, it’s the princess wishes~” it was Asta’s turn to tease his brother now.

Liebe scoffed, “it’s not what she wants, she’s just nice to accompany you.”

You leaned over and pressed a kiss on Liebe’s cheeks, instantly painting his cheeks a subtle pink, “let’s go my little grumpy head~”

You skipped over to Asta whose arms were already open for you to jump into as Liebe groaned in annoyance.

You wanted to give a peck on Asta’s cheeks too, but he turned his head and gave you a kiss on the lips instead, “let’s go get ice cream after the grocery shopping, princess?”

“Yay!” You clapped in agreement.

Asta held you close as he summoned his flying sword and Liebe transformed into his chibi self, parching on Asta’s shoulder.

"I missed you too," Asta had his head nuzzled in your neck from behind, "I'm sorry I was so busy today.."

"Heh. So you do feel guilty," Little Liebe scoffed at him.

You ruffled his messy hair, "thank you for doing everything you do my sunshine!"

-------------

With one hand carrying the groceries and the other hand holding onto yours, your boys stood by you, on either side. You were headed for the ice cream store, you were happily skipping and in your usual bubbly self.

Liebe and Asta looked over and you and smiled, seeing how easily contented you were.

"Shall we share a sundae?!" you stood in front of the vast selection of ice cream at the store, "what flavours shall we pick?"

"f/f ice cream please," Asta knew your favourite flavour, "and what other flavour do you want, y/n?"

"Hmm, you both can decide!" you looked to the both of them.

"Cookie and cream!" Asta beamed.

"No! Vanilla!" Liebe exclaimed.

Before they could get into another squabble, you told the waiter, "we'll pay for an extra scoop, one each please~"

The three of you happily shared the sundae while the boys told you about their long mission, you fed them ice cream while they squabbled over whose turn was it for you to feed. You could never exchange anything in the world for your two boys.

-end-

Ice cream dates are the best aren't they!!!

[tuliptic]

SLUMP: How Do I Get Out Of Here

Too many times we’ve fallen into slumps and have had trouble picking ourselves up again. This reading serves to be a guidance on how we can be kind to ourselves, how we can get ourselves out from this pit of darkness and walk towards where we belong.

Close your eyes, meditate on this topic and ask yourself the question: Where are you, how are you gonna get out of here? Breathe in and out, make sure your mind and heart is calm. Then, open your eyes to see which pile talks to you the most/draws you in the most. Once you’ve found your pile, scroll down to the respective parts to see what are the messages for you.

Pile 1 - Pile 2

Pile 3 - Pile 4

Disclaimer: This is solely for my entertainment purposes. Take only whatever you feel like it. If it doesn’t resonate, it’s okay to just drop it. Also, I do not consent to my work or images being used by third parties on this platform or other websites as well.

Decks used: Crossing Star Tarot Deck (Major Arcana), Luna Cat Tarot Deck (Major Arcana), Linestrider Tarot Deck, Sweet Dreams Oracle Deck, Starcodes Astro Oracle Deck.

Pile 1 - Trickle

A card to symbolise you: The Hermit, The Moon

Aite it ended up with two cards. The first thing I’m picking up here is that there is a need for you to step into the unknown instead of wandering around the entrance. Sure, seeing the dark ahead is scary, but you’re the Hermit, you have your torch with you, and the Moon is shining above you, lighting the path as you take your steps. It’s difficult if you wander around without directions, but you have light guiding your way. You know your goals and how you wanna achieve, all that’s left is to tread carefully to reach the exit. The Moon here is giving me spiritual vibes, so you may turn to that for an extra hand, and an extra opinion so that you can see things from another point of view, and to learn something new.

1. How did you get here? Knight of Pentacles

You've taken up a lot of responsibilities, thinking that it's all your obligation. It's not. All these burdens have piled up on your back, crushing you as time passes. As this went on, people around you have… Well… Taken advantage of you. It’s a little bit difficult to say cuz you tend to be the person who focuses on the main picture and the collective benefit, so you allow yourself to take up more responsibilities.  This can also be an excuse to run away from interpersonal problems, especially between family members. Or, there may be a possibility of you not having a decent relationship with your family members, that you have to focus on work and find your worth through your career.

2. How do you get out of here? The High Priestess rx

You’re more of a practical kinda person, focusing on what you can see and what you can comprehend, instead of the spiritual aspect of the world. With this, there may be a loss of connection with your intuition and/or inner voice. You will need to tune into your intuition, pay attention to the voices in you instead of the voices outside (remember to not get it mixed up with anxiety). When you’re feeling low or challenged, remember that you are loved, and you are worthy of love. There’s a saying I’ve read somewhere, “Those who are loved have the strength to conquer difficulties”. Know your worth and accept it. You have come this far, and you will continue to go further.

3. What can you learn from this? Ten of Pentacles

One of your core values is family. You may have been brought up with the concept that family is important and how it has shaped you to who you are today. However, you are called to check if this value aligns with you, aligns with your emotional and mental needs. With the wrong people, it’s no longer an alliance but a discord. You learn the needs of having proper and healthy connection, and how to unlearn old values and beliefs that no longer help you, picking up new values and beliefs along the way. Focus your energy and effort on That One Thing that you want to achieve (purpose), and water that plant (intent). Once you’ve put in the right gear, the rest will fall in place, and you’ll see the results in plain sight.

4. What should you do if this happens again? Three of Cups

Your friends are your greatest support system, but I’m also gonna remind you to also be the friend they need. Although the theory of love languages is a scam, to understand what the other person needs in a friendship (or any forms of relationship) is necessary, else you’re just imposing your ideals onto them. To me, it feels like growing together, relearning new things (or old things) about yourself, understanding yourself better and how to treat yourself better. Hang out with your inner child, do whatever it is that your inner child has wanted to do the entire while. For example, you’ve wanted to colour your hair ever since you're in secondary school, do it; if you’ve wanted to get a new piercing, do it. Go ahead and do whatever it is that you’ve wanted to do (as long as it’s not against the law or rules of whatever institutes that you’re in).

5. What are the qualities you need to have to go through this? Ace of Cups rx

Hmmm… Your emotions are… Rather turbulent, I’d say. There’s an unhealthy stream of emotions that you’re holding back, and the dam is about to break. A lot of healing needs to be done, where you need to focus on yourself, to express selflessness and fairness over yourself first. Not to sound discouraging, but you may never heal from certain trauma, where you can only learn to walk away from whatever that is and live with it. Even though you’re surrounded by obstacles right now, remember that with time and the right amount of attention and effort, you can work through almost any deadlock. By then, you’ll be stronger and more capable to work towards your dreams, desires and goals.

6. Advice for you: The World rx, The Empress

Your journey is far from over, and to some of you, you may not even know where you’re headed, not knowing where your goal is. It can sound discouraging, but I think the beauty in it is that you get to look around and learn, absorb as much knowledge as you want, level up yourself as you go. It’s like… Your goal is to learn and experience, to grow as a being, and let that be part of your soul journey.  Be kind to yourself. I feel that many who picked this pile have trouble treating themselves well, financially and emotionally. Some may also be people pleaser because that was what they’ve been taught when they’re kids, and this is a sign that it’s high time for you to cut away from those habits. It may be difficult to cut it off, but at least, recognize and acknowledge this part of you. If you choose to believe that you’re not one, then you won’t work on it. Let your journey on this earth be a fun and comfortable one, where you put your needs first, focusing on yourself. You are not supposed to burn yourself to warm others. Learn to appreciate yourself more, learn to live for yourself.

Overall energy: The Devil, Two of Cups rx, The High Priestess

I’m immediately picking up energies of self-sabotaging. I don’t think I need to further elaborate on this, those who know it will know it. I feel that this pile may listen to their logic more to the point that they ignore everything else, may it be your intuition or your feelings, making you misaligned with yourself. Calm yourself down, stay quiet, focus on one point, and sit there with your head blank (if you need some background noise to help you, do so). Once your head stops screaming, ask yourself about the emotions that you’ve been feeling. Listen to your heart, listen to what it’s trying to tell you. Align yourself to the path you’ve wanted to take. Cultivate yourself, create and enjoy. Invite limitless magic into your life through whatever that goes through your hand. Welcome yourself onto this Earth.

.

.

Pile 2 - Breeze

A card to symbolise you: Death

Changes come and go as the breeze, lightly and without you noticing. It also feels that the changes you bring and the changes you experienced can be similar, where it’s… Nonchalant. There’s not much emotional attachment with whatever you’re holding to, and when it changes, you accept the changes because they don’t affect you much. The transforming energy this card holds is not something sudden, but something that gradually happens over time. It’s like the straws stacking up on the camel’s back. One day, one last straw will break the camel’s back, and that’s when you have to make necessary changes to make sure you survive.  This is you right now, and unlike other piles, you are aware of this. It’s still gonna take quite a bit for you to take any action because you don’t think you’re at that point of breaking yet.

1. How did you get here? Knight of Swords rx 

You probably have not been paying attention to whatever that’s going on with your life. It feels like… You go along with the flow too much, not paying attention to where the final destination is going to be, focusing very much on the present. With that, people can come in and influence you to work to what they want. I wouldn’t say that they’re bad guys, but imagine parents that can be controlling, wanting you to do things according to their way/method cuz they believe it’s the best for you. Some may actually guilt trip you, or use you to their own convenience, depending on what’s going on and if your family is so.  As that goes on, you’ve given up taking control over your own life, only focusing on surviving the days. It’s high time for you to realise where you are standing right now, and hence, you’re experiencing this burn out. You will need to clear your mind and heart of negativity, as well as negative influence to at least rekindle the passion you have towards life.

2. How do you get out of here? Eight of Wands

Rise and leave. This card talks about action, and it’s gonna be very fast. Give them no time to think or to react. Make sure your wings are strong enough to carry you far, make sure whatever chains of negative influences end with you. Take this as a sign to put your hesitation aside and go for it! You may feel as though you’re being trapped in a whirlwind with how everything is happening around you, but place your trust in yourself as well as your higher self. Things will be fine, and you’ll be able to see how your plans worked out. However, remember to step forward with plans and proposals.  If you do not feel prepared enough to take any action, it’s okay. Rest, grow stronger and prepare yourself, so that when the chance comes, you’ll be able to take off without any hesitation. You’ll be surprised with how far your dreams have guided you.

3. What can you learn from this? Six of Cups

First thing I’m picking up from here is networking/connections. During this period of time, you probably have made new friends along the way. However, if you look back, you'll notice the similarities between the new friends you've made and your friends from childhood. This is because you tend to fall back into things that provide you comfort and familiarity. Similarly, you fall back to friends and/or family that have stayed with you throughout these while, eventho they have not been kind to you, because of that familiarity. You are called to do some introspection, to discern and decide how you want your life to be, what you are going to do to get that life you wanted.

4. What should you do if this happens again? Six of Wands rx

Should this happen again, stay low and remember where you came from, remember that place of pain where you've finally left, and remind yourself to stay on your toes. Do not think highly of yourself, of how strong you've become and finally you can stand against it. Don't let your ego feed into you. You are very well capable of falling into old patterns again if you have not gone for any therapy. Seek help from some other authorities that you trust, else, you search for people you trust to help you out from this. Remember, there's only so much you can do, and the most important one among all is to protect yourself.  You will heal, but you’ll need to take time, allow yourself some rest time for you to regain your energy. You’ll know when you’re healing, or fully healed. Healing is never linear, so don’t rush yourself.

5. What are the qualities you need to have to go through this? Ten of Pentacles

There’s a lot that you have, abundance in finance and human connection. Ten of Pentacles is usually a family card, but I’m also seeing it as a found family, where you select who you want to be in your life. With Pentacles, I’m seeing that this connection may be from work, or those who have helped you in your career. That aside, there’s finances here so… You may be the type who’d save up for rainy days, or you’ll make sure you have enough before you leave whatever situation you’re in.  To be able to achieve this, your main qualities would be determination and mental strength. There’s more to go but you have the foundation for this, and from what I’m seeing, you’re already on your way. You may want to try meditation or spiritual related themes, as well as doing a bunch of research on your friends and family. There may be a reason why people around you are acting Like That™, and you may also want to look into yourself if you play any factor. 

6. Advice for you: Six of Pentacles, Ten of Wands rx, The Sun rx

Be generous to others, but turn that generosity towards yourself first. Spend money and pamper yourself when you need them. Remember, what goes around comes around, you provide help, and help will be provided to you.  Put down those burdens people have been putting on your back. You have a tendency to carry the burdens and expectations of others, when all you need to focus right now is yourself. This is something that will… Challenge your core belief, I'd say. You need to focus on yourself, remember that you are the main character of your own story. At most, you can be the side character of another's story, but never their stepping stone. Once you learn your worth, accept it, and work on it, things will turn out different for you. Half of the cards here are sixes. This usually symbolises themes of success, satisfaction and rewards. Do what you need, and the rest will fall in place.

Overall energy: Temperance, Eight of Pentacles, The Hermit

I'm feeling some sort of balance from you. Things can be a mess, or even chaotic. But you actually know where to go and how to go about it, and you're sharpening your tools (skills) at the moment. What I'm feeling from this is that you're preserving your energy, ready to strike when it's needed, bringing a new form of rebirth. You have been receiving messages from your guides, you know they are having your back. Sure, new life can be birthed from old wounds, but you have no need to burn yourself to warm others, to find your worth in this painful form.

.

.

Pile 3 - Woods

A card to symbolise you: The Emperor rx

For some reason, it feels like you're the dejected king. You've done your best to do a lot of good, fight for what you believe in, and yet get shunned/ostracised by your own people. You still believe in what you stand and fight for, but part of you actually doubts if you're doing the right thing, or if there's something wrong with you. There are some questioning and contemplation, making your heart waver, wondering if you should leave this kingdom you're ruling over and go to some other place. The conflict is pretty… Strong in you at the moment, and it feels like you want to put the sceptre down.

1. How did you get here? Page of Swords rx

It's giving me the feeling/vibe that you've been listening to the wrong people, and there's active manipulation and deception in play. Whatever information that you've received/heard have been altered, and even tampered to a certain extent, trapping you in that perception. From there, it will be difficult for you to deconstruct incorrect information and to absorb new things in. What I'm also picking up is that you may have a tendency to go ahead and lead something, even if you're not familiar with the subject, which may be why you ended up being The Emperor rx. An example: Your cousin has told you that you have skills and talents in becoming a HR team leader, and so you applied for the job even if you have zero HR related skills and experience. With that, you're now leading your team and this is where you see problems come in, because you do not have sufficient tools and skills and experience. You can't quit this job because you've signed a contract, and if you quit, your team members will suffer as they will need to redo everything. Your ideals are nice, but you did not consider the limitations and challenges, ending up extremely unrealistic. With that, of course your team members will complain because you also have not taken their situation into consideration.

2. How do you get out of here? Death

There's a lot of changes that need to be made. Heck, you may need to go through a period of “death”, where you deconstruct your knowledge, what you have, what you pride yourself over; and form something new. It's like… A butterfly. Many people know that the caterpillar wraps itself in silk, and comes out of it as a butterfly. But not many know that the caterpillar literally dissolved into goo inside the cocoon. That sort of “death” is what you will need to go through. From there, you build yourself up with knowledge you've filtered, sourcing out resources carefully, being critical of what information you've gotten (or even whatever others are trying to feed you). Of course, throughout this time, you'll need to rebuild your trust in people, allowing yourself to heal from all sorts of betrayal.

3. What can you learn from this? Five of Wands

Sometimes, conflict isn't necessarily bad. You will need it (sometimes, fights and quarrels as well) to get your thoughts and opinions across, and also to understand the other person better as well. It is through conflict that you'll be able to see things that you've been missing out, especially if those “benefits” are things that are absolutely necessary to the other person. Your sense of justice is not applicable to those who are underprivileged, because they will be the first person who'll suffer from the changes.  This conflict can also refer to the wolves inside of you, where you'll need to fight yourself, is your justice really justice if it harms the victims even more. There's more to find out by yourself, and this is a period of transition, where you'll move away from who/what no longer helps you, to things that will be of help and growth in the long run.

4. What should you do if this happens again? The World rx

Remind yourself that it's okay to fail, to be imperfect, and release whatever that is tying you down. Be kind to yourself and let go of self-criticism. This is something bound to happen, since growth is not linear. The world won't end if you make a mistake. But you need to make sure you're learning something from whatever you're doing. Awareness is something important, and you need to be conscious of your action, as well as what it will bring about. Make your actions purposeful, put meaning behind whatever you do or say. You're growing, and you're not doing it alone. You're growing with your friends, you're growing with the world. Do not try controlling the actions of others. You are your own world, and you should be nurturing it with intent.

5. What are the qualities you need to have to go through this? Ace of Swords rx

You're smart. You're either book smart or street smart, or some other forms of smart that I do not know of. Which is why you actually know what it is that you have to help you go through this: By turning that Sword towards yourself. You don't like being told that you're wrong, and it's that pride of yours that will continue to push you forward. And most of all, you will not let yourself make the same mistakes again, allowing you to be sharper than before. Also, you may come up with a guide, describing how you've failed, and how you're making sure that others don't go through the same problems as you. You may end up a little pushy and long-winded, so please be aware of this.

6. Advice for you. King of Cups rx, Wheel of Fortune rx

There are a couple of things that I'm picking up here. One of them is a warning, that you should not attempt any emotional manipulation, guilt-tripping, or any of that sorts, consciously or unconsciously. You may be good with your words, and may have accidentally used them to “convince” someone to see your way, without you attempting to look at their side of the situation. Remember that whatever goes around, comes around. Morality is important, but morality without kindness is just… Inhumane. You also will need to remember to find your new strength, and how you want to proceed with your journey, may it be retiring being a King, or rebuilding your empire with the right people and right values. The cards aren't really willing to fall out, so I guess these are the main themes for you to pay attention to.

Overall energy: Strength, Six of Pentacles, The Star

There are quite some… Misdirected strength here. You are vigorous and ambitious, you have a lot of things that you want to do and to accomplish, but your actions aren't purposeful enough. You probably may feel like you're not seeing much results, and may be slightly dejected. Authorities may have a role in this. However, look at the bright side, you are doing something! Your generosity has helped many people throughout the way, providing faith and hope to those who are troubled. You may be spiritually guided too, so let your guides do their job and steer you towards the direction you're supposed to go.

.

.

Pile 4 - Crackle

A card to symbolise you: The Chariot rx

You’re rushing through a lot of things right now, worried that you can’t catch up with your peers. I’m seeing an image of you riding a horse, pushing yourself forward ruthlessly, ignoring your horse and everything else as you’re only focusing on your goals. Not sure if it’s your horse that will collapse or you falling over first. It is a very… anxious and bouncy energy that I’m feeling here. It’s also warning both you and I that things are going to be a havoc if you’re continuing this, as there’s this lack of balance, where you’re focusing too much on the external items (glory, society-defined success, external approval) instead of whatever that’s going on inside you (self-affirmation, emotional comfort, core belief).

1. How did you get here? The Hanged Man

I’m seeing that you’ve been forcing yourself to do things that you’re not good at. You probably have been called “inflexible” or “stuck in your own way” kinda person, and you’ve forced yourself to change, to see and attempt what other people do. However, it doesn’t work for you. You noticed that you’re not suitable for it, may be due to your upbringing or your brain has already been wired so. Yet you still push ahead with that thought and attempt, wanting to fit in with the rest (and society) so that you do not feel like an outcast. You have received a lot of help throughout this journey, but as the level of difficulty increases, you are running out of helpline and tools to fit in with the rest. This is where you’re starting to feel the burnout and the sense of failure is starting to eat in.

2. How do you get out of here? Eight of Pentacles

Instead of finding ways to fit into societal norms, it would be much better if you focus on what you’re good at and work on it instead. Diligence and hard work are the foundation of success. This is a rather positive card, but you need to make sure that you’re putting in hard work in the right place. You need to first recognise the difference between What You Like and What You’re Good At. From there, you will then need to make the decision on which path you want to take, and how you can expand your skills, and how you can make use of the tools you have to help you out of this slump. Having dreams is great, but you need to equip yourself with the tools to make your dreams a reality. Sometimes, things can turn out to be not… Ideal. You may realise that what you like is not what you’re good at, and it can be rather disappointing, especially if you’re the type of person who wants to do something you like for a living. But then, you can continue to do the things that you like while you also focus on the things that you’re good at. Nothing is stopping you, as long as you know how to balance your time and energy.

3. What can you learn from this? Five of Wands

For some reason, I’m seeing conflict coming from not only within yourself, but also between you and your close friends. Conflicts and arguments often happen when there’s miscommunication, where each party believes themself to be at the right. It is also important to know that one learns better through these kinda fights, where you can take this opportunity to understand what the other person is thinking and expecting, and to see if you are capable of fulfilling that expectation. Every fight is a learning process, where you learn some parts of you that you are not aware of. From there, you make the necessary changes to make yourself into a better person. Now, just a reminder. If you’re incapable of a particular change, do not attempt to change yourself for it. Else, you’ll go through this same process of falling into this same slump, and this cycle will never end. It’s like saying that I can’t fit in the rest of the group because I’m wearing glasses and they don’t. If I don’t get my eyesight fixed, I can’t join their group. Am I gonna get a laser treatment for this? Nope. And it’s alright if I change my friend group because I am unable to adhere to their expectations. The same goes with neurodivergence and neurotypicals as well.

4. What should you do if this happens again? The Fool

Take it as a new form of journey if this happens again, where you travel, meet new people and learn more. You can rest if things get too overwhelming, but you need to remind yourself to get up again and continue your journey. Life’s a constant learning process, where you recognise your changes, and you come up with new coping methods to work with it, especially as you age. For example, your eyesight worsens with age, and you’ll need to change your glasses so that you’re able to function and work as normal. It is the same with life and slumps, where you find out the problems and work accordingly.

5. What are the qualities you need to have to go through this? Judgement

First thing I’m picking up is that you’re very critical of whatever that’s happening within yourself. You may not turn that judging side of yours outwards, where you focus on criticising yourself more. You tend to intentionally make yourself uncomfortable by putting all the blame on yourself, and this is where you need to work on. Instead of putting all the blame on your shoulders, you may try putting them on others if it’s their fault. The more faults you take up, the more you’ll be used. Let others take the responsibility of their actions, let them be uncomfortable with the consequences. You need to remember who you are, and even if you’re judged, let it be because of your own actions, and not of others. Free yourself from what is not yours, may it be glory or sin. 

6. Advice for you. - Temperance rx, Nine of Cups rx, Wheel of Fortune

It’s pretty evident with the cards that are presented, where you need to balance yourself, inside and out. Short term gratification (the sense of belonging) is not gonna help you in the long run, especially if it eats into you and makes you question your identity, purpose, and sense of self. There’s a lot of thinking that you need to do, and you can start by writing things down and weighing the options.  You may feel that life’s playing a prank on you, or messing you up by throwing these challenges at you. This is something you need to go through though, as it is your life lesson. You may think that this lesson is not something you signed up for (a lot of us think the same), but your higher self had other plans in mind. It’s giving me the feeling that you have not picked up on themes on self identity and core beliefs in your past lives, that’s why you’re going through a bunch of it in this lifetime. Instead of rejecting and skipping class, why not sit through it and pick up bits and pieces to focus. 

Overall energy: The Lovers, Ace of Wands

I'm feeling some form of weight on my chest. It’s like you’re burdened with the choices offered to you, either A or B. You are not the type of person who’d prefer to make your pick, probably it’s because you are afraid of dealing with the outcome of your decisions. There’s fear here, but there’s also nervousness, as you’re starting a new chapter of something. Ace of Wands is the first card of the Minor Arcana, which talks about how you’re drafting your life. It would be great if you start the chapter in details of your healing process, including yourself surrendering the old and limiting beliefs that have been tying you down, allowing you to awaken and be reborn into limitless possibilities. 

[coping-via-clint-eastwood]

Snowman Stocking Hook of Death - a CSI Christmas murder

(A/N: Aite so I got the prompt for this LAST year, but it took me too long to write, and I missed the posting date of 25-05-2021. So, here it is this year. Here's the said prompt:

Here's another irl item I incorporated into the story and why:

Useful links to resources I used when checking facts for this story -

http://www.forensicsciencesimplified.org/csi/how.html

https://coronertalk.com/28

https://www.crime-scene-investigator.net/evidenc3.html

https://science.howstuffworks.com/csi.htm

Warning:  mentions of parental abuse.  Yes I somehow incorporated it...*sigh*  :')

It wasn't necessary to add Nick in for such a small crime scene, but a friend of mine wanted him in the fic. Besides, I wouldn't have the GSR moment if he hadn't come in.

Just the heads up - this fic is nowhere near as good as what you'd see in canon. I'm sorry; I have no experience writing forensics stories. You are more than welcome to throw eggs at me.)

Grissom poked through the desk drawers of the bedroom he was in, photographing the contents before he disturbed them. He found a WLVU student ID. He took some shots of it then lifted it out of the drawer, carefully walking amidst all the blood drops to Sara, who was processing the outside area of the flat. "Celia Dashner, twenty-three years old. She was a tech student," he read out to her; that last piece of information was not on the ID, but Grissom had spotted a textbook lying on the desk.

Before Sara could respond, David entered the flat, with a,"You'd think people would hold off on murdering each other for the holiday season at least."

"Are you. Gonna say that to Nick when he gets here? Like how you kept repeating 'you'd think she'd know better than to wear white on the bride's big day' during the Diane Chase case?" Sara returned, turning her face from her camera to look at him, making her husband snort with laughter; ever since they had announced their relationship, Gil allowed himself to be more expressive in public, especially when he was responding to Sara.

"I-" David was taken aback.

Before he could say anything else however, Nick came in, saying, "Man, you'd think people would hold off on murdering each other for the holiday season at least." The Grissoms looked at each other, then at David, who was smirking. At their silence, Nick asked, "...what?"

"We'll tell you later. Body's in the bedroom."  Grissom answered, turning to David as he said the last part.

David was still smiling smugly. "Shut up," Sara quipped. He raised his hands in mock surrender and headed over to the body. The CSIs followed him.

"Apparent cause of death is blunt force trauma to the head, caused by...that."  Grissom swept the beam of his torchlight over to the bloody snowman stocking hook that lay close to the body.  But there was a perculiarity about it.  "Stocking hook...but no stockings anywhere.  Not dropped on the floor, not anywhere in the shelf."

The other object of interest that lay on the floor was a small bell with a Santa figurine on it.  It had fallen a little distance away, just at the bottom of the shelf.  On the top, there was a space where the two objects would fit snugly if they were placed there.

Nodding towards the murder weapon, Nick piped up, "My mom bought one of those for the house last Christmas. It's pretty heavy. I'd say two, three strikes would do the job? Maybe four?" Nick piped up.

Gil bobbed his head a few times, then speculated, "Are we sure that the cause of death is this straightforward?"

"Well. My teacher would say that science will tell us if how things look is how they really are." She smiled at her husband, and he smiled right back at her.

Of course, Grissom was professional as always and brought their attention back to the body.  "Look at how she's lying.  Her knees are bent.  She must've been falling while she was being hit, rather than being on the floor with the killer over her."  He shone his torch on the bell.  "And what about that?"

"It probably dropped off when the killer grabbed the hook and brushed it past the bell," Sara said.  Grissom and Nick nodded.

"Lividity is fixed, rigor is starting in the face, and liver temp is eighty-nine point six degrees Fahrenheit.  She's been dead around six hours. There's nothing in her pockets. We'll know more after the autopsy," David said.

"So she's been lying here since one am...who called it in?"  Grissom voiced.

"Brass was talking to the neighbor, Lindsey Henderson. Apparently, they were supposed to go for a jog like they do every morning. When Celia didn't answer the door, she called the landlord. They opened the door and found her like this," Sara answered, gesturing to the person lying on the floor.

Grissom nodded in acknowledgment. "David, we'll let you know when you can take her away."

"Okay." He went to wait outside.

Brass popped in.  "Vic's name was Celia Dashner. She was a twenty-three-year-old tech student at WLVU. She was supposed to be alone last night, so that narrows the field.  I couldn't find anything else out.  I'm gonna go over to the school and do some asking around."

"Okay.  Nick, you're with him," Gil said.

Nick nodded, "Okay," and went with the detective.

As for Gil and Sara, they kept looking to see what they could find.  Once all the blood spatter was accounted for and documented, David was given the go-ahead to take the body away.  The CSIs found information regarding Dashner's classes, schedules, and so on.  Sara texted Nick to drop the details, along with all the photos he might need.  A continued search yielded a phone and a laptop.  After collecting prints and DNA, they were bagged to be carted off to Archie.  They also collected various hair samples that did not match the victim. 

"There's not much left here to do with the actual event...killer knew their business," Sara said.

"Yeah.  And the weapon used was one of opportunity.  I think the killer wanted to talk to the vic, then they got into an argument, and things escalated from there."  Sara nodded at her husband's plausible theory.  They headed back to the lab, giving the evidence to Archie, Mandy and Wendy respectively.

Meanwhile at the school, Nick and Jim were talking to the headmaster, Mrs.  Millers.  "That's terrible!  I can't imagine who would do such a thing!"  the lady cried, a look of horror and shallow grief on her face, the kind of grief experience when a loss that was not particularly close to you but that one still cared about in a general sense occured.

"We're gonna need to take a look at Celia's records, as well as speak to everyone in her classes," Brass said.

Millers had to nod a few times.  "Yeah, of course, anything to help the investigation."

"We appreciate your cooperation," Nick said.

So the principal brought them to the records room and handed the file to them.  Then, she brought them to Dashner's class, stopping at the door.  She raised a hand to knock, but then hesitatd.  She turned to them and pleaded, "Wait here."  Finally, she knocked the door.  The teacher stopped with his hands in mid-air with how he was gesticulating, his head turned towards the door.  The more attentive of his students were looking at the door too.  Millers enteref walked up to the teacher at the front of the classroom, and the lecturer turned his body where his head was facing.  "Mister Jameson," Millers called.

"Yes, ma'am?"  the teacher inquired, looking over her at the men outside bearing law enforcement credentials.  Even though he was much younger than his boss, he had a lot of white hair due to lack of regular sleep.  And, like most chronic screen starers, he wore a pair of glasses, rectangular and black-rimmed.

Mrs.  Millers looked at the students, then back at him; he could see that she was upset about something.  "May I talk to you outside?"

Jameson looked at his students and instructed, "Finish up the line of code," then followed his superior out into the vestibule.

"Connor, these are CSI Nick Stokes and detective James Brass.  They're with the Las Vegas crime lab."

"Mister Jameson..."  Nick softened his eyes, his eyebrows frowning slightly as he prepared himself for what he had to say, his head tilting to one side a little as he made a small swallow.  "Celia...your student...was found murdered in her apartment this morning."

Jameson's jaw dropped open slightly.  He seemed to want to say something, but was struggling to do so.  Brass said, "We're gonna need to talk to everyone in this class, including you.  We're also need to take your prints and DNA."

"Prints?  DNA?  A-are we suspects?"  His eyes darted about from one man to another.

"It'll help us to rule you out," Nick told him gently.

Jameson inhaled, then exhaled, his shoulders heaving.  "How'm I gonna tell my students?"

"I can handle it,"  Mrs.  Millers said kindly, putting a hand on Connor's shoulder.

He exhaled shakily through his mouth and nodded a few times.  "Y-yeah...thank you..."  Millers smiled a small smile at him, then went inside, Nick and Jim following her, with Jameson tailing timidly behind.

"All right everyone, I have something really important to tell you.  She looked at Nick and Brass, then back at the students.  "Celia...the reason she isn't here today, is that she was found dead in her apartment."  Instant murmuring and exchanging of glances ensued.  "CSI Stokes and detective Brass are here to investigate the matter.  They're gonna wanna speak to each and every one of you, as well as take your fingerprints, and your DNA."  That, especially the last part, increased the uproar.  Skillfully, the headmaster put her hands out peaceably and made her voice rise over the noise without having to yell, saying, "It's so that they can eliminate you as suspects."  Of course, the students were still uncomfortable about the matter, but they knew not to go against what the principal said, and so they quietened down.  Mrs.  Millers looked to Jim and Nick, indicating that they could go ahead.

"Thank you," Nick said.  Millers nodded.

"All right everyone, I'm gonna need you to form a line in front of mister Stokes.  Once he's done with you, you come to me to give me your statements.  You too mister Jameson," Jim called out, gesturing to Nick then in front of himself.  "All right let's go."  He clapped his hands.  Everyone did as they were told, with Jameson being first in line.

Nick collected what he needed, then dismissed him with a, "Thank you very much sir, please proceed to my friend over there."  He spoke like this, gentle, sweetly and politely, to everyone.

Connor took small, trudging steps to Jim.  "So, tell me about your student."

"She was good in her class," Connor said, keeping his head down, one hand clasping the wrist on his other hand.  "Quiet, not that many friends, but close with the ones she had."  He glanced over the a cluster of students at the back of the line; they seemed deeply bereaved, so they had joined the queue with much hesitation, while the rest of their classmates were more somber with the realisation that someone they knew had been taken too soon.  "Those were her best friends.  They all stuck together.  If you wanna find out anything that could really help you, you should ask them."

"Is there anyone absent today besides Celia?"  Jim asked.  Jameson shook his head.  "Okay, thanks very much.  That will be all.  But stay in town; I might wanna ask you more questions later."  Jameson nodded and took his leave.  Everyone else got the same dismissal reminder to remain in Vegas during the course of the investigation.  When everyone had given their prints amd DNA to Nick, he took half of what was left of Brass' queue.

Eventually, it was just Celia's friends left, so Nick and Jim questioned them all together.  "She never hurt anybody.  I can't imagine who would do this," Jamie sniffled, eyes red and her head down, her hands cluthing her jacket on her arms to herself.

Brian was standing next to her, his hand on her shoulder.  "Is there anything we can do?"  he asked, keeping himself together better than anyone else in the group.

"Just cooperate with our investigation and help us do our best to find Celia's killer," Nick said genially.  He took out his phone.  "Now what my team and I are really curious about is this," he said, showing them the picture of the bell.

That caused Jamie to crack a small smile.  "Celia's had it for a long time.  She bought it as soon as she moved out of her parents' house; it gave her company.  And when she got lonely, she'd ring it.  She never needed to use it when we went to visit."  Then, her own words affected her.  "And now..." A fresh cry started up.  "We'll never do that again..."  Davy, another friend, rubbed her shoulder and back while Brian still had his hold on her.

They were all feeling that emptiness, that void that had been left behind by the person who was once in their lives, who was now forcibly removed from them permanently.  And, they knew and felt, too, the meaning of the further loss, that they would never be with each other again; no new memories would be created, which was what triggered Jamie's crying.  They could only hold on to what they already had.

"What about the stocking hook she had?  The snowman one?  We didn't find any stockings at the scene."  Nick did not want to show them the picture of the object with their friend's blood on it.

"Yeah, it's the same.  I mean, same reason as-...as-as why she bought the bell," Brian said.

"Is there no one at all who'd have a motive?  Anybody she had a fight with...?"  Jim voiced.

Davy shook their head.  "No.  Celia kept to herself.  It was either that or sticking to one or all of us."

"What about her family?"  That was Jim again.

"When Jamie said she 'left her parents' house', she really meant Celia'd left; she broke away from them and hasn't seen any of her family in a long time," Brian answered.

"How did she fund her tuition?"  Jim asked.

"Full scholarship.  She was brilliant. She also had a gig being the assisstant manager at the cafe across her house," Brian said.

"Could any of her family have found her?"  Nick left his question as it was, for everyone knew what he was implying.

Jamie shook her head, but still stared at the floor, the jacket being hugged loosely in her arms now.  "They haven't heard from each other in years.  There's no way they could've found her.  Besides, Celia would have been much better at tracking and avoiding being tracked through devices anyway."

Jim and raised an eyebrow and looked at Nick.  "Well..."  he looked back at Jamie, "tracking was possible before contemporary technology."

"No, Celia didn't leave any paper trail.  She was careful not to," Davy said.

"How do you know?"  Jim challenged.

"She told us everything, even the worst stuff of what her parents did to her," Davy returned.

Jim nodded, "Okay.  Um, what other classes did Celia have?  And did she have any extracurricular activities?" 

"No.  Celia wanted to focus on this class only," Davy said.

"Did she have any other friends besides you?"

"She didn't mix with anyone outside of class," Brian answered.

Jim bobbed his head a few times, glancing over his notes.  Then he asked one more time, "Is there anything else you can tell us that might help?  Any odd changes in behaviour recently, even anything that might seem like just a quirk..."

They all thought.  "Well... sometimes, when we were with her, it seemed like she was keeping something to herself.  We figured she'd tell us when she was ready, but now..."  His eyes were downcast.

"Hey.  Listen to me," Nick said; Brian met his eyes.  "Her death is not your fault.  You were being nothing but a good friend by not pushing her.  She'd want you to remember that."  Brian smiled a tight smile from one side of his mouth.

That was all the information Nick and Jim could gather.  So they left the school to return to the lab.  Nick went to drop off the samples with Mandy and Wendy while Jim went to update Grissom and Sara.

Nick went to Mandy first.  When she saw how many samples she had to run, her jaw dropped.  Nick grinned playfully and quirked his eyebrows as he held up the ten-cards.  "Well...at least we have a good chance of a match," Mandy said.

"Yeah," Nick agreed as he put the evidence on the counter.

"Before I start running all these, I'd like you to do something for me," Mandy grinned.

"Oh yeah what's that?" Nick grinned too, mocking her.

"Sing for me."

Nick gave a scoffing laugh.  "You can only have me sing for you if you've found something big."

Mandy became docile but serious.  "Yeah well, it's been a while since I've heard you singing voice, and," she shrugged, "I miss it."

Nick smiled.  "Okay."  He sang, "Oh Mandy, well you came and you gave without taking.  But I sent you away."  Mandy signalled for him to stop.  "Oh Mandy."

Mandy was beaming.  "Thank you."

"Glad I could be of entertainment," he smirked back.  He headed to the DNA lab next.

As for Wendy, she reeled back for a few moments, her breath catching in her throat before it was released in a huff through her nose.  "Wow," was all she could say.

"Yeah...if the killer isn't in here, you can kill me," Nick said as he placed the swabs laying in neat rows.

"You know, I heard you singing for Mandy.  Maybe I should have you do that for me."

Nick laughed nervously, taking a step back and turning his head and body away.  "Oh, oh no," he chuckled, shaking his head as he turned back to Wendy.  "What, you got a song that uses the name 'Wendy'?"

" 'Wendy' and 'Mandy' sound very similar.  You could just swap the names."  Nick begun to step away quickly.  "You're lucky I love you," Wendy teased.

"Yeah, I love you too," Nick smiled over his shoulder before walking away.

Jim found the Grissoms sitting on the guest's side of Gil's desk.  They had brought their chairs and bodies close together, so that their arms and legs were touching.  Even their heads were so close that they could kiss if they just turned them.  They were talking in hushed voices.  Sara passed Gilbert a mug of chocolate; they were evidently sharing it.  He felt sorry for interrupting their quiet moment, which was why he let Gil take his sip before knocking on the door politely.  In perfect synchronisation, they turned their heads and waists and looked at him, having turned facing each other.  Upon perceiving him, they faced the desk.  Gil set the mug down and they stood up, moving past the chairs to be closer to Jim.  "What've you got?"  Sara asked.

"Oh, you know, plenty," Jim played nonchalance, opening his notebook.  "You know, considering there's a whole classroom's worth of statements."

Gil and Sara were smiling.  Sweet as ever, Gil said, "All right, let's hear it," his soft voice gravelly and gentle.  And thus Jim gave them a full report of everything he knew.  When he was finished, Jim said, "I'm gonna go to the cafe and see what I can find.  Toodles."  Gil and Sara waved.  Unfortunately, Jim would find that there was nothing that could help them; no one knew the victim personally enough to want to kill her.

After that, Gil, Sara and Nick went to pay Al a visit.  Even though Nick was the lead investigator for the case, nobody else had anything to do until the print and DNA results were ready, and as of yet Archie had not found anything.

"COD's pretty straightforward; blunt force trauma to the head, penetrating the frontal and parietal bones through to the brain.  Wounding is consistent with the weapon you found at the scene.  The victim was struck thrice.  The first and second hits didn't break her skull; the third and final blow did.  I found no other wounds on her body, not even scabs or light bruising from sporting activities."

"Well her mates did say she was a chronic homebody," Nick said.

"Oh, sounds familiar," Sara piped up, looking at Gil, who turned to her with a raised eyebrow.  Nick and Al were grinning at them.

After the autopsy report, they went to do some more waiting, until Wendy texted Nick.  "All the blood at the scene was a match to the vic's.  Most of the hairs you found were from Davy, Brian and Jamie, but one of them was a match to the teacher, Connor Jameson," Wendy reported, handing the results sheet to Grissom, who took it and put on his glasses.

Since she was just in the next lab over, Mandy walked in to them.  "Hey.  I couldn't find any prints on the murder weapon.  Those bloody smudges you gave me weren't enough for a print; the material of the hook is horrible for prints.  I wish I had more exciting news."  She handed her report over to Sara.

"It's okay.  We'll find more," Nick said, charitable as always.

Just then, Grissom's phones chimed.  He took it out and read the text.  "It's Archie.  He says he's found something."  And just like that, he turned around and walked out of the lab.

"Thanks, guys," Nick said, starting to leave too.

"Thanks, guys," Sara repeated.

"You're welcome," they said at the same time.

They found Archie putting eyedrops in his eyes, sighing tiredly.  "What've you got for us, Arch?"  Nick asked.  Sara walked up to Archie and put a hand on the back of his shoulder comfortingly.

Archie closed the bottle and put it down before starting.  "It took me a really long while to find this; it was in a very secure folder," he said as he clicked on a few things and brought the displays up.

The CSIs went to look at them on the big screen.  "What're we looking at?"

"This is all documented proof that one Connor Jameson has been stealing large amounts of money in small increments via online transfer.  He's been stealing from multiple bank accounts; Celia's is one of them.  She's been investigating it for months."

Grisson raised an eyebrow at the name of the thief.  "Connor Jameson?  That's the vic's tech teacher," Nick piped up.

"This gives us motive," Gil pointed out.

"Jameson must've found out his student was looking into him, tried to get her to stop, and when she refused, he got desperate," Sara reasoned.

The Grissoms look at Nick to see if he agreed.  "I'll call Brass."

"You go on ahead.  Gil and I'll hang back here," Sara said as she and her husband joined hands, Gil looking away shyly.

Nick nodded.  "Okay."  And off he went.

Gil and Sara looked at each other.  Still holding hands, Gil led his wife to his office.  Then, when they were some way inside, Gil turned to face Sara and walked her backwards until she was against a wall, gently pinning his body on hers and pressing his lips to hers, his eyes closed.  Her eyes were closed too as she chuckled.  Yep, they were gonna bang when they went home.

[blazichu]

#catch me rattling on about GG pt 2 for paragraphs

Please continue when you can. I love your reading your analysis!

Apparently I'm incapable of looking over one half of Good Genes without doing the other, so I guess we get a double feature tonight:

Part 1:

I am, of course, contractually obligated to point out my favorite line from the cold open: "My friend Donatello is one of the gentlest souls I've met, with one of the finest minds I've ever known." It seems especially relevant since, later on, Stockman reduces Don to "The smart one"

One thing I noticed this run through is that Leo's speech is slightly different than usual this arc. My favorite is his response to "It's only a matter of time before [Don] is lost forever"; his tone changes dramatically between the two halves of his line, "That's not gonna happen" and "We can't let that happen." The first is his usual 'decisive leader' voice, but the second has this kind of worried warble to it. It's great, and Sinterniklaas gets an A+

Of course there's the breakfast sequence. I don't really have much that hasn't already been said about it, but there's something sweet and sad about how Mike says that he "Just wanted to give him some food". It's just so little, a basic need that he's trying to fill because he cares, and it goes so wrong so fast.

My fourth point is kiiiinda weird and a stretch, but I've always loved the way Outbreak (as an arc) sets up so many bits and pieces that pay off specifically in AiTS/GG. It's usually stuff Don's been working on-- like the trapper gear, the tunnel to April's, or Stockman's helicopter. It's just neat, kind of setting up how indispensable Don's presence really is if he's able to help without being mentally present.

Anyway, right back to Leo and line delivery. The other part of this is that he keeps hesitating and grasping for the right words when it comes to what happened to Don. He refuses to put a name to it when he tells everyone that the helicopter was the last thing Don was working on, "[...] before... Before."

There's also "Don got infected. He's been transformed into... into a monster."

This is something I've definitely written about before, but idk if I ever posted it. Don's behavior after arriving at Area 51 is remarkably intelligent. He's able to use the guards' taser sticks against one another to get free, take out Leatherhead while he has the element of surprise (notable in that Leatherhead was the biggest threat/the one to subdue him in AiTS), turns on Stockman (who was responsible for the transfer in the first place), uses the glass from the containment unit as a shield, and actively prevents Splinter from doing whatever mind thing he did earlier. It's a far cry from lashing out and snapping wildly, and I've always thought it was interesting.

And the tranquilizer scene. Honestly, I find it kind of hard to watch, but I do like the way Leo kneels down next to Don after he's knocked out.

Part 2

I'm gonna talk about cold opens again, because I just realized that this episode essentially begins and ends with the same message: "It's an impossible mission, but what can we do? Our brother is sick, and there's nothing we won't do to save him."

So. The really cool thing about Good Genes Part 2 is how much it directly highlights the lack of Don's presence without actually saying as much. Raph splits off to handle the technology (albeit in an explosive manner) and is seen hauling the duffelbag around. Leo has the headset and is coordinating with April throughout the mission. Which leads me to...

One of the major set pieces in this episode is a callback: the obstacle hallway, Mystic chamber and elevator from Return to New York. I don't think it was an intentional connection, but part of their plan involves repurposing a mech suit to use against the Foot, which is exactly what Don did with Stockman's robotic body in Return. This bulletpoint is 100% me finding meaning where there probably wasn't any, but still.

This one's slightly off topic, but I've said before that I thought it was a dumb decision to have Leo confirm to Karai that the rest of his family was alive and well at the end of Prodigal Son-- this episode is 99% of why I think it was a missed opportunity. Iirc, Karai doesn't appear between then and now, so this would be the first indication she'd have that anyone survived her assault-- and all the boys are here except Don. I just think there's a lot of potential there.

At one point, as Karai calls the Elite into the fray, Leo tells Mikey to take the Heart of Tengu and run-- that he'd hold them off. 'Them' being the Elite; he's about to face the Elite by himself to ensure that this works out. Just try to tell me that's not a statement and a half.

Idk why, but "Get in get out, right? It's not about Karai, right?" always stuck with me.

It's interesting how the episode also calls back to the old intro sequence, where April's piloting a helicopter and Don's jumping onto the rope ladder hanging down from it. Not much to say here, but it's neat.

I'm really bad at making out overlapping voices (and can't make sense of Mikey's line here at all), but after Leatherhead catches Don, you can hear Raph ask him how he's feeling, and Leo say "It's so good to see you again"

I mentioned Raph helping Don to the helicopter in the tags of that last post, but I'm also going to point out that Leo, who is supposed to be flying the helicopter at the end of the episode, is emphatically not watching where he's going.

And, of course, the big one: "I hope you guys didn't go through too much trouble for me."/"Nah!"

In addition to the first point for this episode-- the implication that NO trouble would have been too much-- there's the fact that, when nobody answers for a bit, you can see Don's expression fall. It's that fact that makes me love Mikey's reaction so much-- the way he grins back and tries to sooth that worry down.

Idk how much of this was really analysis, Anon, but I did promise to rattle on for paragraphs, and had a good time doing it. I hope you get some entertainment out of this ;)

[bbygirljuvi]

Gruvia Week 2021 Day 3 - Discovery

Author’s note: This emotional roller coaster turned out longer than I intended. Hope you enjoy ^^

Summary: It take place several hours after Alodron’s defeat, on the way of Drameel.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

Group had stoped over in a small yard inside the forest before continuing their path to Drameel. It was the excuse they gave the army. They were campers which had been attacked by some wild animal on thir campsite. They would head to Drameel right after dressed their wounds. Aldron was just a town’s name they knew. To their surprise, army really bought that.

It was really small yard, just enough to lit a campfire. So everybody was spread around the forest. Less injuried members were gettering up wood and food to prepare dinner while Wendy was running around, healing big injuries with last drop of her magic.

Everybody was tired, injured and confused yet happy. Small victory smiles were visible on every face. Joyful whispers were rising from everywhere. Fairy tail was safe and together again.

Gray leaned on a tree which wasn’t too far away from campsite but private from other sights. He closed his eyes with a big sigh while Juvia went to get health supplies. The nauseous feeling had been crippling inside him since the event with Metro kept getting stronger and he was at his limit at this point. His head was aching, there was a still fresh wound end of the dried blood track, his left shoulder was at least dislocated and without adrenaline rush, he was feeling like fainting.

He opened his eyes with two different footsteps coming to his way. Juvia was carrying dressing matterials while Wendy was carrying a bowl of water. Both of their faces was twisted in worry. Was he looking bad as he felt?

“Gray-san what’s wrong, where did you get hurt ?” Wendy asked in rush. “Just my arm and head, not big deal” he said with a ressuring smile but nobody bought that.

Juvia was sitting in the corner, giving Wendy enough space to do her stuff. It wasn’t easy tho. He looked like a mess. She’d been aware that his condition was getting worse every passing minute as they walk but he wasn’t looking half as bad before she left, had he’s been faking it not to worry her? Her heart twitched with another wave of affection.

Wendy checked his head first and gasped a little. It was worse then she initially thought. “Do you feel dizzy or like vomiting Gray-san?” she asked. He gave a small nod then hissed in pain. That hurted, he thought.

“You’re probably having a concussion, I will heal it right away. You should still rest tho.” she said while using her magic. With that ice mage started to feel alive again. “Shit, I’m feeling awesome Wendy, you are amazing!!”

She mumbled something like thank you with one of her cute blushes on and tend towards his left shoulder, fixed it instantly too. This time Juvia talked “ We are so luck to have you Wendy-san~” she said with a bright smile. The gloom had been radiated from her was long gone. “I’m glad I can help my friends. Juvia-san what about you, Did you get hurt too?”

“No, just some scratches, Juvia is okey.”she said while giving an impish look to Gray. Which led him to blush and turn his head. Wendy didn’t know what was that about but she had a guess. “Is that so, than I’m heading to Erza-san. Don’t hesitate to call me if you need.” And left while ice and water mages were waving goodbye, warning her for not to overuse her magic.

Idiot,idiot,idiot he repeated himself as Wendy’s footsteps faded. She’s my power to live?? What will you do next time, kiss her in the battlefield? You extra little-

His inner scrolling cut short by a wet cloth. Juvia was cleaning his face. “Dressing time” she said, trying so hard not to grin like a cheshire cat. She knew it would scare him if she teased him about it longer than she already did. But remaining calm was hard when all she heard was her beloved’s voice echoing in her head. Juvia was his power to live!!

With that she bit her lower lip in an unsuccessful attempt to stop a smile from forming. Gray rolled his eyes to that but relaxed a bit. Her dramatic reactions were so familiar... Yeah, he had practically confessed but it wasn’t something new. Things wouldn’t changed between them. With that realisation he even smiled when she covered her mouth to muff her slipped out giggles.

“Oh,shut up” he said while rolling his eyes once again. But this time he was chukling too. “Juvia’s mouth is sealed.” She said while switching to his arm, cleaning the area with a bright smile. She had almost finished bandaging his right arm when he stopped her. “Wendy healed me, I should have done dressing to you first.” “Not until Juvia finishes mummifing Gray-sama” she said, pushed him back and continued her job. “Hah, I knew it, you had come out of nowhere to kill me. White mage was just an excuse, wasn’t it?” He said playfully. So he was comfortable enough to joke around again? He usually needed more time for his awkwardness to fade off. Progress, she mentally noted.

“Of course it was.” She put her best yandere impression on: “ She missed her Gray-sama too much while he was away, she come here to make sure he won’t leave her ever again!” Than laughed grisly.

“Okey, that was terrifying. You are terrifying Juvia” he played along. “Oh and you should be terrified, Juvia is dead serious, see?” she said, started wrapping his abdomen faster while touching that soft spot she knew Gray was ticklish more than she had to.

His response was immediate. “Stop, no, Juvia sto-“ his words cut off with a laughter. His eyes began to fill with the effort not to burst out. He was crawling in different shapes to save himself but Juvia was merciless. She cornered him between her body, large tree that he was initially leaning on and ground he was currently laying. And tickled him more aggressively as she finished bandaging his wounds. “I have a reputation damn it, stop.” he said between laughters and hold her wrists together in a, successful this time, attempt to stop her. But instead of trying to tickle him more or accepting her defeat, she hissed in pain.

He got up fast, questioning what was wrong while rolling up her sleeves. When he saw weird, bruis like wounds covering her whole arm, he yelped.

“Juvia!! Why didn’t you say anything?” Juvia was looking pretty surprised too. “Where Juvia had been pinned inside Metro was stinging a bit but she didn’t think it was something important...” Her voice kept getting lower once she saw his angry expression. “Your whole arm and-“ he checked under his long boots “ leg are covered in red bruises and you didn’t think it was important!?” Juvia opened her mouth but Gray was just started. “You never take care of yourself. Can’t I even trust you when you say I’m fine?” He started to unbuttoning her coat aggressively since bruises were going beyond her upper arms. He’s stripping me, she mentally noted and placed it aside for later. It wasn’t the right time, he was really angry.

“And you bandaged me with those arms! Always depriving yourself, UGH” She opened her mouth once again when he paused his silent yelling to search right ointment in first-ait bag. But before she could found an excuse, moment passed. He continued scrolling her while angrily rubbing oinment on her left arm.

“What should I do, do I need to strip you every time after a mission to make sure you are okey-“ he paused once again when his eyes slightly crossed over the scar on her abdomen, the one he couldn’t stand seeing. Oh-uh Juvia thought, knowing this would make him grumpier. And she was right, his grip tightened on her wrist. Continued his speech angrier which was about how reckless she was, how she was not listening her physical needs, how she should get her priorities right...

And at that moment, it hit her... She knew her feelings were not as unrequited as it was before. She had known it before that sweet words from several hours ago, she’s my power to live. She had known it before he had claimed her body by saying it’s his. She had known it before unpleasant encounter with Invel. She even had known it before he had promised an answer to her on starry night.

But at that exact moment, while he was grumbling about how reckless she was and angrily wrapping bandage above her elbow; she realised he may care her more than she dared to assume. And at that exact moment she felt loved, more loved than she felt her entire life.

He stopped when he saw her eyes were shining with tears. His expression softened with guilt. Lightened his grip. “I’m sorry. Did i hurt you?” She shooke her head and hugged him carefully, trying not to ruin his effort by rubbing ointment off.

“Juvia will take care of herself more from now on, she won’t act reckless, promise.” She said with a touched voice. It was obvious she was crying. “Hey, hey what’s wrong?” Gray tried to push her, to saw her face but she tightened her arms and buried her face deeper in his neck. “Nothing, really. Can we stay like this for a while please.” she said. Gray was about to object when he felt her tears in his neck, followed by a smile. That was a genuine smile. Gray had never been good at reading people’s emotions but Juvia was different. He would understand if she faked it.

So he mumbled “What is this for all of a sudden?” but still wrapped his arms around her waist, rested his blushed cheek on her hair. They were out of sight anyway.

They stayed in that position until Mirajane declared it was dinner time.

[cuinnamonbun]

Hi again! I got another HC idea. 😌

How would the brothers + angels react to a laidback Muslim MC whose also really violent? Like their mood switch flips instantly lmao

Aye, wassup friend! Regarding your ask, at this point you’re just describing ME lmao, somedays I really do just wake up and choose violence 😭 aite let’s do this 😎

The Demon Brothers + Angels Reacting to a Laidback Muslim!MC Turning Violent

Lucifer

At first this man loves MC and the amount of calm and composure that they have

Though he finds it irritating when he’s threatening them and they would just look up at him with the most dull expression on their face (like seriously human, you should be SCARED)

But still, with how chaotic his brothers are, he appreciates a collected and peaceful demeanour whenever he finds it and MC is breath of fresh air even if he won’t admit it

Silence with them always felt comforting and never awkward

One day, he noticed that MC was rather tense and rigid and had asked them if they were fine to which they replied yes through gritted teeth

Sensing that perhaps they were not in the best of moods, he let them go only to hear them politely ask Mammon to get out of their room

Of course our resident dumbass (affectionate) refused in an attempt to tease them, only to be YEETED from the room and into the hallway where Lucifer was standing with a bewildered look on his face

MC was standing by the door with a dark look in their eyes and the most sinister looking scowl that could rival Satan’s before they slammed the door shut in their faces

When he finally got over his shock, he would be extremely, extremely enthused

He will now spend his free time trying to rile up MC just so he can see them lose their temper again

He couldn’t help himself. He knew that Islam emphasises heavily on the virtues of patience as a sign of piety and so he just assumes that MC would just,,,,never yield to anything

This is when he realises he has a corruption kink ok sorry not sorry

May or may not pop a boner if/when he succeeds and they blow up (not literally) in his face

Mammon

He adores this human. Partly because he’s head over heels in love with them he hardly has anyone to drag with him along with his schemes and this human just seems to be down for anything, and mostly because they’re always so coolheaded

It allows him to pull off his plans without a hitch because MC’s composure allows them to be able to think up a quick solution whenever the two of them inevitably face a brick wall during one of Mammon’s schemes

With them around, Mammon would be 15% richer than he would be if he went alone so he’s keeping them around thank u very much

The first time he witnessed them turn violent is when the two of them were hanging out in his room when Levi bursted in, screaming his head off about how Mammon stole his wallet (he didn’t) and that the limited edition Ruri-chan collection was dropping soon in 24 hours and yada yada yada

And when he found out that Mammon didn’t, in fact, steal it, Levi wouldn’t apologise, oh no no no no. Rather, he would proceed to insult and degrade his brother until MC finally have had enough and went. off.

Seriously, the two demons were so shocked that the usually chill human was now on their feet and threatening to ‘deck Levi over the head WWE style if he didn’t quit it with the insults’ that the two brothers just stopped arguing

If Mammon weren’t so astounded, he would’ve found the whole thing hilarious because here is one of the rulers of Hell, turning white as a sheet as he is being cussed out by a small, furious human

After their long-winded (and frankly terrifying) speech that were riddled with not-so-subtle threats, Levi mumbled an apology and quickly shuffled out of the room with his tail between his legs and MC just plopped back down on his couch with their usual dull expression back on their face as if they didn’t just go on a tirade just seconds prior

Mammon’s love for the MC increased tenfold right then and there

Leviathan

Oh, you’re really quiet and laidback? Cool.

He doesn’t really care about it but he does enjoy having them around during his gaming sessions or when he needs a buddy to watch anime with him because they’re the only ones who would listen to him prattle on about theories and endings whilst enjoying the game/anime

He also vents to them A LOT and is the first person he seeks whenever he’s annoyed or frustrated by his brothers

He was heading over to the living room for movie night with his brothers and MC when he found his brothers all bickering with one another (no shocker there) and MC sitting on the couch reading a hard cover book

Of course, once they saw him enter, he was immediately dragged into the argument about which movie they were gonna watch

Now as the otaku of the family, Levi’s pretty very vocal and highly opinionated about the type of film they should watch for movie night and he dislikes it whenever someone would argue with him on his choice of film

So when Satan told him to his face that his movie selection sucked and he should just leave his input out, Levi would be so, so, SO offended and upset which was evident from his expression alone

Before he could defend himself though, a book suddenly went hurtling through the air and hit Satan right in the middle of his forehead like a bullseye

At first Satan was FURIOUS but it quickly died down when all the brothers finally realised where the book had come from: MC’s direction

They all turned to see an irritated look on their usually placid face and dominant arm raised as if they’d just thrown a shot put

“Oops. My hand slipped,” they said monotonously before sauntering away from the now-quiet living room

Levi is now cautious of accidentally angering MC, but he can’t help that moe feeling that MC actually threw that book in his defense

Satan

As the Avatar of Wrath, Satan is extremely attuned to people’s rage and MC is no different

He was honestly the only one out of his brothers who wouldn’t be surprised if one day MC woke up and chose violence

I mean, he usually keeps his wrath under wraps, hiding it well with an easy smile and friendly demeanour and he could tell that MC was the same

He knew that no one human could ever have that high amount of patience, especially when dealing with his brothers, doesn’t matter if they’re religious or not

In fact, he was waiting for the day he would finally see them snap and release all the pent up rage he knew they bottle carefully within themselves

Of course it happened when Asmo would not stop pestering MC about going to the club

As MC is a Muslim, it’s not a surprise that they’re against going to places like clubs, casinos or bars

Usually MC was able to tune out Asmo’s pleas like white noise but it was when Asmo turned to physically dragging them that became the proverbial straw that broke the camel’s back

The poker-faced MC now looked more like an Avatar of Wrath than Satan himself

Satan only watched in amusement as MC dug their heels in the pavement, cradled a confused Asmo’s face in their hands...and pulled his cheeks with a bright smile and the most ominous look in their eyes before telling him ‘fuck off before I proceed to give all of ur prized makeup and skincare for Mammon to sell and use our pact to make u watch as he earns his cash’ in the sweetest way possible

Asmo no longer pesters them to join him clubbing

Satan: I’d just like to say, I’m your biggest fan

Asmodeus

Asmo loves loves LOVES having this human around because they always let him use them as his own personal doll

That means impromptu fashion shows in his room, makeovers, spa days, mani-pedis you name it

So he always assumed they were this paragon of patience and stoicism, never once losing their cool

The first time he saw them turn violent was when the two of them were walking down to the kitchen with Asmo chatting their ear off about some scandal this succubus has found herself in with these two demon best friends while they just listened and occassionally chiming in

When they reached the kitchen however, they found Beel by the kitchen, no shocker there

But MC had stopped dead in their tracks because right there in his hands was the chilled lemon soufflé that they’d been making for Lucifer (upon his request)

It’d taken them hours to perfect the dessert to Lucifer’s standards and they’d left it in the fridge to chill before serving it to him for tea time

So when Beel raised the now-empty glass to show to MC with a happy look on his face, it was enough to send them over the edge and scream bloody murder to the brothers’ surprise

Beel will apologise sheepishly but MC will force him to remake the dessert without letting him eat anything until it is perfect

It was torture for him and Asmo vows to never unintentionally set them off again because...holy shit MC

Beelzebub

Beel is a chill dude most of them time when he’s not hungry

All he wants is for his brothers to stay safe, happy and healthy and he’s a happy demon 🥺

He likes having a laidback MC around whether it’s during studying, snacking or even when he’s working out

Their presence is always so calming and comforting for him since their lax nature just reminds him so much of Belphie

The first time he saw them truly angry was when they’d found out that their favourite sweater that they brought back from the human world had been destroyed and discarded in the trash

As it turned out, Belphie had been rumaging through their room for something to snuggle with while MC had been away at Purgatory Hall and found their sweater

In an unfortunate string of events, a loose thread from the sweater had caught on the end of a door latch and the sleepy Belphegor hadn’t enough patience at the time to gently untangle it

Instead, he forcefully yanked it, causing the sweater to tear

Deciding that it’s better to just grab their blanket or something, Belphie discarded the article of clothing in the trash before stealing their blanket and stalking away to the attic for a nap

When MC found out, they. were. furious.

That means a lot of smashing, screaming and shouting until Beelzebub or Lucifer finally managed to calm them down

He’s sad that MC is so angry at his twin but he never wanted to see MC lose their temper like that ever again

Belphegor

Exam season was rapidly approaching at RAD and that means more assignments, quizzes and tests 

For the average student, it also means sleepless nights, mental breakdowns and consuming a concerning amount of caffeine

For Belphegor, he simply couldn’t give a shit

No amount of exams is scary enough to get his ass out of bed and study 

And like his other brothers, he assumed the same for MC

They always had that poker face on them as they studied and they never once argued or talked back to one of his brothers even though they were being so annoying and irritating (to him) and were clearly disturbing their revision time

He sees the hard work that they’re putting in their studies and reputation and even though they hide it behind a blasé mask, he knew they were exhausted

It was up to Belphegor to recognise their cues and force them to take breaks by napping with him

He was peacefully napping in the common room beside a studying MC, patiently waiting for their 25 minute break from their pomodoro session when Lucifer had walked in and begun to bark chores at them that even woke up the younger demon beside them

And to their surprise, rather than wordlessly carrying out his commands like the demons had expected them to, MC slammed their pen down on the coffee table and yelled at him

MC: you know what, Lucifer? Why don’t you take your ***** and ****** then shove it up your ****** and let’s not forget to *****, you little ***** ***** *****!!!

Belphegor had never been more proud and concerned for this little human who was far too brave for their own good

Simeon

It’s said by everyone who knew him that Simeon is always so calm and composed, always greeting everybody with a kind smile and gentle eyes

He never once loses his cool, but that doesn’t mean that he does not feel anger from time to time

Like Satan, Simeon is understanding of MC’s anger and would never reprimand them for blowing up

Anger is healthy after all

He has expressed concern before for MC’s mental wellbeing as they were far too patient for their own good

Of course, in all his years of living, he has seen remarkable humans with superhuman patience before like the Prophets Muhammad and Jesus (peace be upon them) but even that was because they had divine intervention 

The first time he saw them finally snap was when the two of them were enjoying a pleasant walk towards the House of Lamentation from RAD when Mammon and Levi appeared out of nowhere and began fighting again

It had been non-stop screaming, insulting and fighting with these two for almost three weeks now and MC was so, so, sooo close to yeeting them off the side of a cliff

Their composure finally snapped when Mammon and Levi had been roughhousing so close to them that they accidentally stepped on Simeon’s robe (or is it more of a cape?? idk) and tore a small hole in it

Simeon has never been more surprised to see MC roar at them and begin a stern lecture that reminded him so terribly of Lucifer

He was so amused that he couldn’t help but laugh when they forced the two to apologise to him before dragging them over to the House by their ears, completely ignoring their desperate cries for mercy 

It was a hilarious sight and he would’ve recorded that entire scene on his DDD if he weren’t so hopeless with technology

Luke

MY SONNN

Luke is reminded of Simeon when he first got to know MC

They were always so collected and level-headed even though they were thrown in Hell out of the blue for an exchange programme that lasts a whole year

He never understood how they could be so chill with living with 7 demons under one roof though like??? hello????? human are u functioning well?

But he likes having them around because they’re always so nice to him and always keen on spending time with him

Which is where he finally saw them snap

The two of them were carrying their cupcakes that they’d made for their picnic date alongside Simeon and Solomon and had left them on the table for a few minutes while they went to gather the rest of the supplies

They came back to see that the cupcakes had been ravaged by Mammon, Levi and Beel who all looked so pleasantly happy munching on their hard work

Luke was extremely distraught and upset over this and protective MC will NOT tolerate this kind of behaviour to their son

So using the power of the pacts, they forced the brothers to grovel at his feet and apologise by doing whatever Luke wants them to do

He wants a glass of water? LEVI GET UR ASS TO THE KITCHEN RN! He wants pizza? MAMMON U RUN UR CUT LIL BUTT TO HELL’S KITCHEN AND GET HIM A LARGE PIZZA STAT! He wants to be fed? BEEL U BETTER MOVE THAT FOOD FROM UR MOUTH SON AND FEED IT TO HIM ASAP!

Luke secretly enjoys it but he still can’t help but feel kinda bad for the brothers and slightly scared of MC now

[sepublic]

Luz’s time in the Boiling Isles?

          Building off of a previous post, we know that Eda only sells human garbage on weekends; Otherwise, she sells potions during the week. With this incredibly vital piece of information, let’s analyze the timeline of each episode, and calculate once and for all; How long has Luz been on the Boiling Isles? Keep in mind… I’m only calculating the minimum amount of time, because the possibility for entire days and even weeks passing between episodes isn’t out of the question; But given how Luz is operating on limited time before she heads back home when summer ends…

          For now, let’s just try not to assume anything, and work with only the actual evidence we have; So unless stated otherwise, we’re operating on the assumption that a minimum amount of time takes place between episodes, unless proof states otherwise! Because we know as of the Season Finale that Camila doesn’t yet expect Luz to be back from Reality Check Camp, and Luz expresses no concerns about an impending deadline; Ergo, we’re working with as little time as possible, while still leaving some room here or there…

          A Lying Witch and a Warden takes place on a BI Sunday, because Eda is selling human trash, and the very next day it’s potions! Witches before Wizards, by this logic, takes place on the BI Monday right after!

          Next comes I was a Teenage Abomination; We know it’s on a school day, so it’s likely the same week as WbW. Then there’s The Intruder; Willow is briefly seen at the beginning wearing her casual outfit. There’s no indication of what time of day it is when this all happens, and we know from Really Small Problems that Willow can and has worn her casual outfit the morning before changing into her uniform for the school day; Regardless, even if it was a weekday or a BI Saturday, it doesn’t matter. Because immediately afterwards…

          …We have Covention! THAT opens with Eda, Luz, and King selling human garbage, so it’s officially been a full week since Luz has arrived! Happy one-week anniversary, I guess…? Regardless, we segway into Hooty’s Moving Hassle; The trio are hanging around at the Owl House instead of selling stuff, and only head into Bonesborough to get more elixirs for Eda’s curse. Coupled with how Willow and Gus arrive wearing their school uniforms, it’s safe to say the opening scenes take place after-school on a week day.

          Lost in Language! This one is SUPER helpful, because Emira, bless her, outright says that Covention happened last week; Given how this episode takes place over the course of a day, and yet Amity is at the library instead of school (and she would NEVER skip class), it’s obviously a weekend. It’s worth noting that Eda and King aren’t selling human trash on this day, but that’s likely because the Bat Queen had just dropped off her kids that morning, so it was just a change of plans.

          Next is Once Upon a Swap; We start with the gang selling human trash again. It’s possible a full week has transpired, and we’ve jumped into the next weekend… Or, LiL happened on a BI Saturday, and OUaS is a Sunday (which means the same day Eda woke up to find the Bat Queen’s children missing, she switched everyone’s bodies). We know that Amity is Top Student for a reason; You don’t get that position by being a slow reader. Coupled with how she’s an avid fan of The Good Witch Azura, it’s likely that she finishes the book Luz gave her sooner, rather than later… So for now, LiL and OUaS happen back-to-back, one day after the other! That, or LiL begins after-school on Friday… Regardless, it’s still only been two weeks since Luz arrived!

          Now, I know that you might be thinking- At the end of OUaS, Hooty says it’s time for his Monthly Cleaning, and yet earlier that day Luz shows disgust about having to clean him; Implying she’s participated in a previous monthly cleaning! And to that I say… NO, that doesn’t necessarily mean that. All it means is that Luz knows Hooty is filthy and thus dreads the idea of having to clean him. It doesn’t necessarily point to her having been part in a previous monthly cleaning. So for now, it’s just been two weeks.

          Something Ventured, Someone Framed is a school day, obviously. Then we have Escape of the Palisman; Presumably another school day, because a school game takes place and we see Willow and other students in their school uniforms! Gus is wearing a sweater over his, but otherwise; EotP probably takes place on a BI Friday! So THREE weeks have passed!

          Then comes Sense and Insensitivity; It starts on a weekend because human trash is being sold, but what’s interesting is that it takes place over the course of a few days, as Eda says she’ll be gone for that amount of time; Not to mention, even with magic, it’d likely take time for King to have Ruler’s Reach edited, printed, advertised, and gain an avid fanbase. In addition to people already expecting a sequel announcement, and how a few days is usually by minimum three… It’s likely that this episode extends into the week as well. We see Boscha and a few other Hexside student in their school uniforms, but this can easily be explained as either happening after-school, as well as the fact that there’s not much of a reason to go and design a bunch of unique, casual outfits for some background characters; Boscha and her friends are also seen in their school uniforms during Once Upon a Swap, which IS a weekend.

          (Now this raises the question; If this happened over a few days, what was Luz doing before King invited her? Well… she was all alone, typing her story by herself, sad because her friend ditched her for a few days. 😢)

          Next is Adventures in the Elements! We have no indication on when a Trash Day is, and what’s the logic behind it, if there’s any consistent scheduling, etc. It doesn’t really matter though; We immediately see Amity in her casual attire, and later that day she and the twins are practicing magic on the Knee. It’s safe to say that this is a weekend, and/or…

          Remember what I said earlier, about how SaI likely extended into the week? Well, if it’s a weekend already… Then that implies an entire WEEK has passed between SaI and AitE! And, remember… In SVSF, Principal Bump mentions that Luz will go to Hexside when the next semester starts; We don’t know how semesters work in the Boiling Isles school system. For all we know, they’re more akin to a six-week grading period if anything else (even if they don’t last as long).

          That being said, the idea that there’s a full week of no school between semesters is also possible… We don’t know if summer vacation is a thing on the Boiling Isles, so perhaps a whole week off between semesters compensates for this? That, or there is no compensation, period, given how the school system in the Boiling Isles is clearly flawed and spends emphasis on molding children into obedient workers.

          For now, I’m inclined to say that a week has passed between SaI and AitE… But if one considers that Amity is still reading Azura when this all happens, then that means it’s taken her two weeks to finish the book; That, or she finished the book within a few days and didn’t have the chance to meet up with Luz until two weeks later. Amity IS the Top Student, so combined with her parents’ pressure, she may not have a very open schedule; Which could also drag out her time reading Azura.

          That might seem like a stretch in more than just the temporal way, so I’ll keep an open mind; It’s worth noting that if I AM right and there’s a full week of no school, then it’s not out of the question for AitE to have taken place on a weekday. The fact that Amity isn’t going to school, and yet Eda doesn’t seem to be having any plans to sell human garbage prior to Luz’s request to be taught a second spell (she’s at home trying to cook sentient vegetables), indicates this ISN’T a weekend, but a weekday with no school.

          My point is, if SaI started on a Saturday at minimum (because Eda is selling human trash), and a few days have passed… Then it doesn’t make sense for Amity to be wearing casual clothes and not going to school, UNLESS a full week has passed, or there isn’t school for a week (or maybe a day, but this is between semesters too). An entire week has to have passed either way, because it doesn’t make much sense for a semester to end and begin within the same week; Regardless, it’s only a one-week difference when we ultimately tally up Luz’s time on the Boiling Isles, as of the Season 1 finale.

          (Mind you, it could all just be a continuity error; But that’s no fun, is it!)

          The next episode is The First Day… Very clearly a BI Monday, unless it started on a Tuesday for whatever reason; Regardless, it’s during the school week, and likely early into it! Next is Really Small Problems, which would’ve been a school day- But Boscha’s pet pixies caused class to be cancelled. Then Understanding Willow has Luz and her friends at school… Followed by Enchanting Grom Fright! EGF likely takes place by the end of the week, as that’s usually when such formal occasions happen; Keep in mind, at least two whole days pass during this episode, one at school, and the other when Amity is training Luz on her fears! It’s possible this training period happens after-school, especially given how she mentions that they have no more time left once it ends. So EGF potentially starts on a BI Thursday, before ending on a Friday night. Either way, the week has ended- That’s FIVE weeks, baby!

           Now, we go into Wing it like Witches! It’s the very beginning of Grudgby Season, so I think it’s a safe assumption to say that this episode takes place on a BI Monday- So it’s the next week after Grom. This episode comes and goes across the span of a day, not much else to say here. Then we have Agony of a Witch… What’s interesting is that in the previous episode, Lilith mentions how she WILL be back to capture Eda, and how she alludes to Belos getting impatient. Not only that, but Amity’s leg is still broken in Agony of a Witch, too…

          We know that witches have access to healing magic, and that Amity is using a Healing Glyph to speed up her recovery. Grudgby Cards released as supplementary material to the episode allude to witches having regenerative abilities- With or without this possibility, we can assume that Amity is going to heal sooner rather than later because of magic, in addition to Lilith likely intending to capture Eda ASAP as Belos’ patience wears thin. We know AoaW takes place during a school day as well, as this is when Luz has a field trip to Belos’ castle… With all that in mind, we can probably infer this episode as having happened later that same week that Amity broke her leg. The day ends with Luz walking back home across the Boiling Isles by herself, on-foot, the ENTIRE way back to the Owl House… And then sunrise, meaning Luz has been walking for the whole night… 🥺

           …And then we have Young Blood, Old Souls- Our long-awaited Season Finale! Considering what Luz, Lilith, and Belos all have at stake here… It doesn’t make much sense for them to wait an entire day before getting along their respective business with Eda; And with how the scenes are framed, it’s all but said that YBOS takes place the day after the field trip… So right after Luz arrived back at the Owl House at the end of AoaW that morning, she barely got any time to rest before she changed into her regular clothes and enacted her rescue mission, that same day! Jeez… Luz must’ve been EXHAUSTED by the end of the episode, and coupled with the relief of finally rescuing Eda in the end- She deserves a nice long rest!

           Young Blood, Old Souls takes place across an entire day… I can’t tell if it’s a school day or not, because- Willow and Gus ARE shown in their casual outfits during the episode… But they were also seen wearing their casual outfits the morning of RSP, right before they planned to head to school, only to find out it was cancelled. We also see other Hexside Students in this episode, but they’re always depicted with their uniforms on, school day or not. Even if it were a school day, I can see Belos making a special occasion to cancel school so he can have everyone gather for his petrification of Eda… And there’s also the chance that by the time we see Willow and Gus, their school day has already ended, and everything’s happening in the evening.

           (If so, then this leaves room for Luz having at least had a decent nap and meal before going off to rescue Eda, the poor girl.)

           Regardless… We know that Agony of a Witch and Young Blood, Old Souls happen back-to-back, right after one another, across the span of exactly two days; From the morning of one day, to nighttime of the next. Because Amity’s leg is still broken despite having the Healing Glyph applied as of the Season Finale… We can probably assume that the final two episodes happen sooner rather than later; So it’s likely that our last two episodes of Season 1 occur later in the same week as WilW. Regardless of whether or not the season finale is on a weekend or a BI Friday; It’s basically been about a week, for all intents and purposes. So then our last three episodes of Season 1 happen across Luz’s sixth week at the Boiling Isles, by minimum.

           So, to round it up; Luz has been in the Boiling Isles for SIX WEEKS at minimum, potentially longer; Maybe five, if my calculations about an entire week passing between Sense and Insensitivity and The First Day are wrong. Potentially as little as FOUR, if I’m also wrong about Lost in Language and Once Upon a Swap happening back-to-back! So, 4-6 Weeks by minimum, with my estimations leaning into the latter number. We know that Luz is supposed to be at the Reality Check Camp for presumably the entire summer… So that’s about three months; Six weeks is about a month and a half, so about halfway through Luz’s intended time away from home, before she was supposed to return- And in line with Luz not showing any concern about having to leave the Boiling Isles, anytime soon. Luz has a decent amount of time before summer ends, and Camila realizes that her kid is missing!

           Of course, we don’t know how long it’ll be between Seasons 1 and 2, how much time will occur across Season 2; And there’s always the possibility of Camila suspecting that something is up before Reality Check Camp is bound to end, because Luz is no longer responding to her texts. We also don’t know how things are going on the end of whoever is impersonating Luz with those letters, and how they’d be affected by the portal’s destruction, if at all… For all we know, there might even be a doppelganger of Luz that’ll be sent in her place, by the time she’s supposed to return from Reality Camp! And that’s not even taking into account the possibility of Luz finding her way back home before Reality Camp ends…

           Regardless of how things will happen in the future, as of now; I think Luz has been on the Boiling Isles for six weeks by minimum. There’s still room and possibility for additional weeks to have occurred between certain episodes and more ambiguous time frames- Not to mention the idea of Boiling Isles weeks being structured differently from ours… Maybe they have more days or less- We’ve seen a calendar or two in the background that could point in either direction, but nothing outright definitive. And even if weeks were shorter/longer, there’s the consideration of how long each day/night lasts, and how that’ll overlap with Earth time… So Luz’s stay COULD be shorter/longer than the equivalent of six Earth weeks, who can say? Though for the sake of simplicity and everyone’s sanity, I wouldn’t be shocked if Dana and the crew decided that Boiling Isles time runs concurrent with Earth time, for the most part.

          Whether or not I’m correct, I think it does put into some perspective how much time Luz has spent at the Owl House, and the bonds, relationships, and growth she’s experienced during her stay! It definitely helps you appreciate what Luz and the others have accomplished, and how far their journey has progressed together- That this really is a summer that has changed Luz’s life more fundamentally, more succinctly across a shorter span of time, than most of her life… And it becomes clear just how impactful Luz’s second home and found family in the Boiling Isles is to her, and vice-versa!

          Because Luz hasn’t just been changed- She’s changed OTHERS, from Eda, to King… Willow, Gus, Amity- And she’s even instated quite a bit of change in the Boiling Isles itself, changing up Hexside’s curriculum and planting the seeds of a rebellion against Belos; In addition to rediscovering Glyphs, and how that can really change what it means to be a Witch going forward- Because now, it seems the role of ‘Witch’ has become much more inclusive once more, thanks to Luz! Dredging up the ancient past, while influencing the present and future so immensely across such a relatively brief period of time; Luz really is such a cryptid and outside-context anomaly to the Boiling Isles, befitting someone who comes from another reality entirely!

[queenmuzz]

Mors aurem vellens, 'Vivite,' ait, 'venio'  Chapter III

Firstfruit Offering

The sun shone in your eyes, causing you to flinch.  How long had you slept?  Of course, you’d had a long trip, and your body didn’t have the stamina it used to, but surely you wouldn’t be so negligent as to sleep until mid morning?  But the way the shadows caused by the pillars stretched out on the marble, you had definitely overslept. Using your staff, you almost ran into the inner sanctum, terrified that you had the sacred fire die out.  From your interactions last night, you were almost certain that Vergil was not the type of God to have his rites besmirched.   What a dishonour it would be, to be slain for blasphemy on your first day as Temple Priestess!

Thankfully, the flames still flickered, albeit weakly, eating the last of the log, the embers now almost ash.  

So you gingerly placed another log from your small stash, as to not smother the little flame.  You cautiously began to blow at the base of the charred log, only stopping when the flames began to lick and scorch at the new logs shreds, kindling into a new flame.  With a sigh of relief, you slowly got back up.  In the light of mid morning, the temple, while eerily silent, was less foreboding than last evening, and the whistling wind seemed less strange. 

Even the presence of Vergil, unseen, but ever present was much less terrifying.  You could feel him, watching your every move, but not as overwhelming and less judgemental as last night, you still felt him as you walked back to your messy bedroll.  After all, he could have just struck you down for sleeping in, for almost losing the fire, he was well within his rights as God within his Temple.  But he just remained silent as his shrine statue.

You arrived back to your modest sleeping area, and as you rolled up your bundle, you noticed something. There, sitting at the foot of the bed was a bundle of brown fur. Upon closer inspection showed that there was one...no two...rabbits laying dead.  For a brief moment, you panicked, you had heard of feuding families leaving dead animals in the beds of their enemies as a warning.  But these ones seemed placed at the foot of the bed, and not where you would have noticed them upon waking.  And the way they were positioned, they kind of reminded you of when the barn cats would present dead mice to you and your siblings, as some sort of ‘gift’. Had Vergil given them to you as a ‘welcome present?’ You had to stifle an inward snicker at the mental image of the God carrying the pair of rabbits in his mouth before dropping it at your feet, and you hoped that he didn’t have the ability to read minds.  But, even though you still felt like you were being watched, there was no change in the intensity, and so you relaxed, and allowed yourself to utter out a soft ‘Thank you’ into the still air.  There was a shimmer in the light, the roots of the giant plant seemed to shift slightly, but then, all was silent.  You picked both of the rabbits up, and a knife contemplating on what to do with them.  Skinning them would be the first step of course, but what then?  Roasting them sounded delicious, but you had no time to turn a spit, undoubtedly today would be busy.  But perhaps...a stew?  You had a turnip, and some wild herbs that you’d picked up on your travels.  Unfortunately, a stew was not a stew worth eating without some bread to soak up the juices, and you were practically down to crusts of  bread so stale, that not even an ocean of stew would soften them up....

“Hello?!”  A voice rang out, startling you out of your thoughts.  You placed your knife down and followed the voice.  From what you had heard, no one ever came here, the entire countryside thought  land was cursed, and the temple shouldn’t have any visitors.  Still, it would be rude as Temple Priestess to not greet the person, even if they were lost.

“Hello? Anyone here?” The voice repeated, more louder, and it came from the common area.   Strange, you swore you could smell freshly baked bread.

Ah, there the visitor, a plump, auburn haired woman with a ruddy complexion, dressed in a simple peasant’s dress, carrying a basket, looking around slightly worriedly, and muttering to herself. 

“I do hope nothing bad happened to her, if something did….Enrico, I’m going to...” she growled, but whatever her threat was cut off by your appearance.

“AH!  There you are! When I heard that my Dear'' the faux deference dripped through, “husband left you all by your lonesome here, at NIGHT of all times, without inviting you to spend the night at our farm place, I was THIS close,” she pinched the fingers of her free hand together, almost touching, “to making him sleep with the pigs.  Damn fool…”  she brushed the hair away from her face, and looked around.  “So, I told him that I was going to come here this morning, and that he either come along, or be in charge of all the chores.” She chuckled, “Guess which he picked? He’s so superstitious, he’d rather have to milk the cows, feed the chickens, AND look after our little son than set foot here.  Anyways,” she smiled and gave a curtsy, “I’m Cecilia Elesion, wife of the lovable idiot, Enrico.  And I figured to myself, ‘that poor girl is all by herself, a newcomer, with no one lookin’ out for herself, so I’m gonna take a look out for her.’  Rico begged me not to go, but I insisted.  It’s ‘bout time someone took care of this Temple, it’s been abandoned for ages.” She took a look around, her eyes trailing the roots that wound themselves the pillars. “Ah, yes...I suppose you could call this a ‘Welcome to your new home’ gift.  I made em’ meself!”  She handed you the basket, and the gingham sheet that covered slipped off, revealing several loaves of freshly baked bread, some even designed in a braided pattern.  This wasn’t the leftover scraps of a farm wife's dough, these were the first loaves.  Cecelia was obviously sincere in her devotion.  

“Thank you!” you breathed in the scent as you took the basket.  After months of bread hard enough to crack teeth, warm fresh bread was glorious.  It would make a fantastic addition to the rabbit stew you had planned.  It would be  your first proper meal since you had left your home village.  For an instant, you felt a bit homesick, memories of your mother’s hearty stew.  You grasped her hand in thanks, trying to invoke a blessing, but a familiar chill trickled up your spine, and you felt a whisper in the shell of your ear.

“Ah….it appears she has been blessed by my Mother….” Vergil’s voice nearly startled you, unexpected as it was.  He’d been so content to lurk in the background, that you’d momentarily forgotten about his presence.  You paused for a moment, a frown on your face as you tried to decipher what he said.  Eva’s blessing… AHA!  The generous woman in front of you was with child, even if she didn’t show it, perhaps she didn’t even know it.

“Is something wrong?” Cecelia asked, misinterpreting your frown for a concern.  You hesitated, not knowing how to go around such a delicate subject.  As a child, you remember your mother slapping a man when he asked her when she was expecting, even when she wasn’t pregnant.  Should  you even mention it?  You decided, you  had been given a message from a God, it wouldn’t do to not relay it.

“I am just a little concerned with you going through all this effort, carrying all this load while expecting.”  After all, a pregnant woman shouldn’t exert herself too much.  She should be informed of her condition, in order to prepare herself.

Cecelia’s reaction was unexpected.  She turned pale, and a tinge of fear passed over her face. “You...you could tell?”

Ah, so she already knew.

“Well, I was told,” you admitted, glancing at the statue.  Strange, she should be happy, excited for a new addition to the family, not looking like she was about to burst out in tears.

“No one knows yet, not even Enrico.” she confessed, a sheen of sweat coming over her forehead.  You quickly leant your arm to help her down to the floor. “We’ve tried so hard after our only son, so many losses, that this time… this time I couldn’t bear to  let him know, I didn’t want to get his hopes up once again, only for them to come crashing down.  Our little Credo...he was our miracle child...I had resigned myself to focusing on just him.”  She looked at you, dawning horror on her face.  “He told you?  Does that mean…?”  She couldn’t speak further, the poor woman looked like she was going to pass out.

The whisper came again, without a hint of deception, “I have no claims on her unborn child nor her, not for many years, my Mother shall guide her through both their journeys.”  His words, while spoken firmly and without empathy, were a relief to you.  

Oh, so this was going to be  a Priestess’s job?  You’d always assumed that it would be a rather insular job, tending to the hearth, offering prayers, not relaying messages like the more outgoing Gods’ priests.  You knelt down towards the trembling woman, speaking as soothingly as possible. “It’s alright...He has spoken to me, and he says that you and your child are safe.”  

The woman scanned your face, trying to find out if  you were truly speaking the truth, or just speaking false words of comfort, before the impact of what you had said hit her.

“You’re...you’re certain?”  

You nodded, inwardly relieved as the ruddiness returned to her cheeks.  What you didn’t expect was her hugging you.

“Thank you, Thank you, Thank you!”  You swore you could hear your ribs cracking, “A thousand blessings upon you.  You have no idea how much both of us have been praying to Mother Eva for another child, we were almost planning on making a Pilgrimage to Fortuna.  But if you and Him say…”  she looked to you for one last confirmation, and smiled brightly.  “Rico will be delighted when I tell him.  And to think…” her old grin came back, “he’d rather clean up chicken droppings than set foot in this place.”  She looked down at the basket, momentarily forgotten, “this is poor payment, but is there anything, ANYTHING you need that our family can provide, we can do it.”

“Well,” you thought.  In truth, the fact the Temple was located on lifeless ground, meant you were without much sustenance, so maybe… “Wood for the sacred hearth.  I need a supply to keep the flame burning.”

“Say no more,” Cecilia assured you as she got back onto her feet, “you will lack for nothing. We’re just poor humble farmers, but we can provide you and Him the essentials.  Whatever you need!” 

She gave a curtsy to you, paused before the statue, and clasped her hands to speak a short silent prayer.  For a brief moment, you swore you saw the roots quiver, but when tried to take a closer look, they were still.  But something in the air was different, other than the smell of bread, there was a vibration, a smell of fresh earth, but then it was sucked up, like water to a dry sponge.

And with that the woman left, a spring to her step, so out of place in such a dour looking place.

*******

Vergil watched as the little plump woman hurried out, singing a merry tune.  Mortals got far too excited over small things.  While he spoke the truth,  that for now, he had no claims on her or her child, in a short amount of his time, he would claim one, then the other.  That went for everyone, none could escape his reach.  Perhaps that’s why people were afraid of him, that they would attempt to avoid his inevitable arrival to end their pitiful lives.  But this was strange.  That woman had… thanked him?  To him, a God of Death, be given thanks felt...fulfilling.  A surge of energy, more potent than life blood coursed through him, and the Qliphoth’s roots seemed to twitch in response.  

“Well, that was kind of you.”  His sense of puzzlement was dissipated as the voice of his Priestess, who was watching the woman’s receding form. 

He stood beside her, still invisible and scoffed, “She provided an offering, I felt it would be poor form to let her leave without being compensated.” “But you didn’t have to do that.  You made her so happy!” she placed her hands together, “If you did that more often, perhaps more people would visit your temple!”

“And what makes you think I want people to ‘visit’?”

“Well…” she stroked her chin, “I assumed you would be lonely all by yourself here.  After all, that’s what temples and shrines are for, right?  To be a meeting point for both mortals and Deities.  Us mortals give you offerings and our prayers, and you give us advice, prophecies  and sometimes intercede on our behalf.”

She looked outside.  “Where I come from, in the wild forests…packs of monkeys and herds of  deer travel together.  The deer, with their keen noses, lead the monkeys to fresh vegetation with nuts and fruits, and the monkeys, sitting high above the trees, have a good view of the surrounding area and can alert the deer when a tiger is prowling downwind of the herd.  A relationship in which both benefit.”

Vergil was annoyed by her simple observation. “I need none of that.” “Well, you’re the only God I know who doesn’t appreciate or encourage worship.  Lady Trish has people flocking to her for her for rain-bringing storms, Lord Dante practically has entire battalions marching through his temples, praying for victory.  Even poets and writers make the pilgrimage from miles to beg the gift of inspiration from Lord V-”

“DO NOT SPEAK THAT NAME!”

The roots of the Qliphoth rippled with energy, and he had to control them from jerking.  Just the mention of that cursed name brought back memories that he could not bear. In response to his rage the roots demanded blood, lifeforce, something to sate their ever ravenous hunger.  And they sensed the Priestess, standing there, so weak and vulnerable.  Easy prey.

“I’m sorry,” she spoke apologetically, but refreshingly not with overly emotional supplication.  Just her calm voice, startled at his outburst but without the expected fear, was enough to let his rage subside.  She stood there, unaware how close she was to death, her eyes staring through him.  She still couldn’t see him, of course, he would not allow it, but her steady and firm stance was  unafraid of his wrath.  Perhaps her expecting death in such a short time left her without fear.  

No, he ordered them to stand down, and they reluctantly complied, she has no idea of what she speaks of, he thought, and besides...she still has more use to me alive than dead...for now.

Still, his rage hadn’t truly subsided…did he really need her, another priest that would eventually stab him in the back? “I need no one.” He hissed, his voice sizzled through the temple like a winter’s wind.  “I need no worshippers….I need no priestess.”

And without allowing her to respond, he left, not even looking back.  She would no doubt leave after his outburst...any sane person would.   He was fine with that.

He did not need her.

He did not need anyone.

All He needed was power.