#ali. 18. she/they. latine.

[subconcern]

it’s not a main concern, it’s just a # subconcern . . . independent  writing  blog  for  𝚖𝚒𝚔𝚎  𝚠𝚑𝚎𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚛  of  the  duffer  brother's  stranger  things.  canon  divergent   &   primarily  influenced  by  my  own  headcanons.  selective  in  following,   (  particularly  when  it  comes  to  the  strpc.  )   established  august  of  2022  by  ali.  18+  only.

this  blog   is  multi - versed    &    relies on  plotted  interactions    &    dynamics.    if  you  don't  wish  to  interact,    do not follow !    this blog may also contain elements of :    typical   period    homophobia,    horror,    possible    gore,    survivors    guilt    &    mental    illness.

affiliated with , @brinaspells . . . @261garage . . . @killedbilly . . . @graveg1rl . . . @gabiellas

[titandotter]

          i'm ᴬ 𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒓, and 𝚊𝚗 𝚊𝚜𝚜𝚊𝚜𝚜𝚒𝚗. i do ⁽ not  ⁾ 𝐝𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞, # titandotter : an independent writing blog for 𝗚𝗔𝗠𝗢𝗥𝗔 𝗭𝗘𝗡 - 𝗪𝗛𝗢𝗕𝗘𝗥𝗜 as found in marvel's ✶ 𝓰ᵁᴬᴿᴰᴵᴬᴺˢ σƒ ᵀᴴᴱ 𝗀𝖺𝗅𝖺𝗑𝗒 ✶. written by ali. ⁽ 𝚎𝚡𝚌𝚕𝚞𝚜𝚒𝚟𝚎 ⁾ with кιηι¢н's @spacechase , affiliated with мαяα'ѕ @loyaltry.

this blog contains a characterization compiled from the guardians of the galaxy films, video game, with some comic influences. my interpretation does carry a couple canon divergencies in terms characterization & in regards to the ending of guardians of the galaxy vol. iii. 𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗜𝗟𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗪𝗜𝗟𝗟 𝗕𝗘 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗘𝗡𝗧 but tagged. + 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒔 of torture, abuse & murder will be also explored.

                𝖯𝖨𝖭𝖳𝖤𝖱𝖤𝖲𝖳. 𝖬𝖨𝖷𝖳𝖠𝖯𝖤. 𝖬𝖴𝖫𝖳𝖨.

[ariel-seagull-wings]

PORTRAYALS OF PALESTINIAN X JEWISH LOVE STORIES IN BRAZILIAN TELENOVELAS

@professorlehnsherr-almashy @princesssarisa @themousefromfantasyland @lord-antihero @gravedangerahead

@tamisdava2 @faintingheroine

So, as many brazilians, I grew up with telenovelas as the main source of national enternainment.

An interesting characteristic of brazilian telenovelas (specially the ones produced by the channel Rede Globo, the most powerfull TV channel in the country) is that, besides the extra production value that can go to cinematic levels, above the usual budget of other latin american telenovelas or british and US american soap operas, is that they experiment with mixing the escapist love story with discussions of serious real life topics in the side plots: politics, street crime, drugs, mental ilness,domestic violence, sexuality, etc. are themes frequently explored in brazilian telenovelas.

In recent years, there were also international real life topics incorporated to telenovela plots, besides the brazilian reality, including, more recently, two attempts of exploring the Israel x Palestine in love stories between born in imigrant families from those two regions.

One a late night telenovela, the other an evening telenovela.

I would like to present the resume of them here, and how they were received by audiences at the time:

Pérsio and Rebeca (Amor a Vida, 2013-14)

2013's Amor a Vida (Love for Life) included the subplot of the romance between medicine doctors Pérsio (Mouhamed Harfouch), of palestinian origin, and Rebeca (Paula Braum), of jewish origin. The two originally entered in frequent verbal fights before becoming a couple, and when they did, it started as a secret to Rebeca's family, and there was a period they expent broken up because the character of Pérsio revealed that he had a past as a member of a terrorist cell and considered being a bomb man before coming to work in Brazil as a doctor.

But eventually they reunited.

When it camed to reception of this subplot, the average brazilian viewer wasn't much involved because there were already a lot of other subplots to be invested in (particularlly the romance two male character that became the first kiss between two man in a mainstream telenovela), and some leftist groups who were acompanying this story interested in how it would explore this real life conflict were left disapointed, repudiating the reveal of Pérsio as a former terrorist as stereotypical and feeling that it simplified too much the complexity of the real conflict between Israel x Palestine.

Ali and Sara (Órfãos da Terra, 2019)

2019's Órfãos da Terra (Orphans of the Earth) was a telenovela of the 18:00 p.m time spot that experimented in exploring the theme of refugees who were coming in mass to Brazil (particularly from Siria, during the height of the US x Siria warn news) and their descendants. One the plots included inside in this theme was the love story between Ali (also played by Mouhamed Harfouch), the owner of a restaurant, and Sara (Verônica Debom), a customer who learns belly dance with Ali's sister Muna (Lola Fanucci).

Ali was the grandson of the palestinian imigrant Mamede (Flávio Migliaccio), who had lost his home in Gaza during the destruction caused by the Israeli Army.

Sara was the granddaughter of the jewish imigrant Boris (Osmar Prado), daughter of the flower shop owner Eva (Betty Gofman) and sister of Davi (Vitor Thiré), a young woman who was serving in the israeli army due to the encouragement of his grandfather, and against the will of his mother and sister.

The old patriarchs Boris and Mamede were neighbors, and started the story hating each other so much that they wouldn't bear the interactions between their dogs, even less so the romance between their grandchildren.

Sara at first pretended to be a gentile, thinking that Ali would reject her if he knew she was jewish, but that didn't happened: the two kept the relationship strong after she told the truth, and had the support of Sara's mother and Sara's and Ali's siblings to be together.

Despite their grandparents schemes to separate the two and make marry people of shared cultural background (which provided a light hearted comedy), Sara and Ali fortunally got happily married.

The two families ended supporting each other trough sad moments, like Davi's death while serving in the Israeli Army and Mamede's development of Alzheimer's when, and had happy moments like Ali and Sara welcoming twin children.

Unlike the more controversial aproach of 2013's Amor a Vida, the portrayal of the love story between a Palestinian and an Arab in Órfãos da Terra was much better received by audiences and critics, by the levity and the respect in wich the two groups were portrayed, without either being villanized, and the strong trust between the two characters that became the couple.

[frontproofmedia]

PARO VS. LOVE, ANDY CRUZ AND BRIDGES VS. MATHIE ALL STAR ON HANEY-PROGRAIS CARD

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Published: October 19, 2023

Paro and Love meet in 140lb showdown – Cuban sensation Cruz returns – all-Australian World title clash.

Liam Paro and Montana Love will clash for the WBO Global Jr. Welterweight title, Cuban star Andy Cruz returns against Hector Tanajara, and Ebanie Bridges defends her IBF World Bantamweight title against fellow Australian Avril Mathie on the undercard of the blockbuster WBC 140lb title clash between Devin Haney and Regis Prograis at Chase Center in San Francisco on December 9, live on DAZN PPV in North America and on DAZN worldwide.  

TICKETS ARE ON SALE AT CHASECENTER.COM

Paro (23-0 14 KOs) will be itching to get in the ring and put on a big performance after agonizingly missing out on a World title shot against headline star Prograis in June. Injury ruled the Australian out of the contest, but now the unbeaten 27-year-old gets to stake his claim for World title action in 2024 against Love and steps back into the ring for the first time in over a year, having blasted away Brock Jarvis inside a round as the top of the bill act in Matchroom’s first ever Australian show in October 2022 in his Queensland hometown.   “Love is just another guy trying to get in the way of where I want to be and I’m not going to settle for that,” said Paro. “Next year, I want that World title! But for now, December 9 is only thing on my mind.”   For Love (18-1-1 9 KOs), it is back-to-back Australian foes as the Cleveland ace gets back into action following a controversial homecoming clash with Stevie Spark in November, where Love was DQ’d. The 28-year-old will be eager to get back to winning ways in San Francisco and get back into the World title mix, making this 140lb clash must-win for both men.   “When you pray for rain you, gotta deal with the mud,” said Love. “December 9, Love hurts.”   Cruz (1-0) made his hotly anticipated pro debut in July in Detroit, comfortably outpointing Juan Carlos Burgos to pick up the IBF strap that he defends in December. The former Cuban amateur sensation, who struck Olympic gold at the 2020 games, can add the WBA Continental Latin-Americas title to his collection in his second pro outing, but faces a stiff test against San Antonio’s Tanajara (21-1-1 6 KOs).    “The wait is over!” said Cruz. “I'm more than ready to get back into the ring and make it rock. I came here to fight the best, so I ask them, who would be the brave ones to take on my challenge and join the action? Let's talk about challenges!”   “I’m excited to be fighting on DAZN on a great card,” said Tanajara. “I would like to thank Matchroom for the opportunity. We will be more than ready come Dec 9, to give the fans a great show and bring home the win to San Antonio.” There is more World title action on the card as Bridges (9-1 4 KOs) makes a long-awaited return to the ring against Mathie (8-1-1 3 KOs). Fight night will be one day shy of a year since Bridges successfully defended her title for the first time in her adopted UK home of Leeds, where she stopped another Australian, Shannon O'Connell, in the eighth. The 37-year-old became IBF champion in in March 2022 in the same arena against Maria Cecelia Roman, and has expressed her desire to unify the titles – but will need to take another Aussie scalp in Mathie, who will be looking to bounce back from tasting defeat to Ramla Ali in New York in February.   “If Avril thinks because it’s December and it’s the beginning of the holiday season, she’ll be going home with an early Christmas present she is sadly mistaken,” said Bridges. “After the fight and my hand is raised in victory it’s going to look like she’s celebrating Halloween. I intend to put on a show for the fans live in San Francisco, on DAZN and all over the world.”   “I am beyond excited to be challenging for the IBF bantamweight title on December 9, and on such a big card in front of what looks like will be a sold-out arena in San Francisco,” said Mathie. “I am confident people will be seeing the best version of me to date. Everything leading up to this fight has prepared me both mentally and physically to leave San Francisco with that championship belt.    “I am expecting the best version of Ebanie that night as well, which I know is going to make this fight an absolute banger and be a huge win for women’s boxing overall. I want to thank Eddie Hearn, Matchroom, DAZN and my manager Peter Kahn for making this fight a reality. I would also like to thank Ebanie for giving me the opportunity to challenge for the World title.”   Brazilian star Beatriz Ferreira (3-0 1 KO) fights for the second time in 2023 after a shut-out win against Karla Zamora in Sheffield, England in July and meets Texan Destiny Jones (5-1 2 KOs) over eight rounds, while Oakland native Amari Jones (9-0 8 KOs) moves into double figures in the paid ranks and does so over eight rounds at Middleweight against Californian Quilisto Madera (14-4 9 KOs).

[giuliafc]

Betrayal Chapter 7: Mors tua vita mea

<< 1 -- 2 -- 3 -- 4 -- 5 -- 6 -- 7: Ao3 || FFN -- 8 >>

Written by: JuliaFC

Beta: Agrestebug and myimaginationflows

Summary: Did you think we'd heard the end of Lila? No sir… she's back. And her plan is… scary!

Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by (c) Thomas Astruc, TS1 Bouygues, Disney Channel, Zagtoon, Toei Animation. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.

Written for the "Snippet July" challenge of the Miraculous Fanworks Discord server @miraculousfanworks AND for LadyNoir July @ladynoirjuly Day 18 — Pipe-dream/can't transform. Let me know what you think!

oOoOoOoOoOo

Adrien: [M'lady? Have you forgotten about Prince Ali's engagement ceremony? I'm waiting for you at the Town Hall. Please be quick, Chloé sat next to me since you weren't here.]

Adrien: [M'lady? Are you alright? Haven't heard from you for ages. Please call me as soon as you can.]

Adrien: [Marinette? I'm getting really worried now… your mum and dad also haven't heard from you, nor Alya. Where are you? Chloé won't leave me alone!]

Alya: [Girl? Adrien is very worried, where are you? I'm getting worried too…]

At the bottom of the Seine, a phone beeped with a message received and then switched itself off.

oOoOoOoOoOo

Marinette opened her eyes, a sharp pain spreading from the back of her head. She tried to say something but all she could let out was a muffled: "Mhhhf".

"Oh, you woke up. Alla buon'ora!(1)"

Marinette's eyes widened. She wiggled, desperately trying to move, but her body failed to follow her brain's request. That's when she realised she was tied up.

"Wiggling like the slimy little worm you are." The green in Lila's eyes seemed to sparkle as she smirked. She heard Marinette mhhhf'ing some more and her smirk widened. "So good that finally you've been reduced to the silence you deserve."

Marinette could hardly breathe. What happened? She remembered reading Adrien's text message that the place for the ceremony had changed and to meet him at some luxury boat moored at Port Debilly. She had reached the place, a strange man had let her in and…then nothing. The taste of the cloth that had been stuck into her mouth was overwhelming her. Her skin was all tensed around the tape that shut her mouth.

"Is she awake, sweetie?" The man who'd let her in the boat looked in from the door.

"She is, Jacques. Leave us alone a little longer. Then she'll be all yours," said Lila looking at him and the man smirked before closing the door behind him.

Marinette's heart went into overdrive.

"Amazing what you can achieve with flattery." Lila looked at her again, showing her a website that displayed the message she received from Adrien earlier. "And amazing what you can find on the internet. It was so easy…just flattering the right people and I got access to this fake SMS website. And Jacques…is the perfect pawn. He thinks I'll help him sign an exclusivity deal with Prince Ali for his cruising boats. Che imbecille. (2)" She cackled. "And now, it's the end of you. You won't prevent me from achieving my goals again." She slammed her hands on the table in front of her. "All my plans always ended up being no more than pipe-dreams, all because of you! I HATE you, Marinette. You'll pay for all the tears I've shed on my pillow at night."

Marinette wanted to tell Lila that this was going too far. This was much worse than threatening. This was kidnapping. Attempted murder. This was a criminal offence. As annoying and evil as Lila had always been, Marinette didn't expect that she would fall this low. But she couldn't say anything, she could only struggle more with the knots that were tying her arms and hands.

"Pointless of you to try to open those knots," said Lila when she saw her struggling with it. "Jacques was a sailor, he's an expert at knots of any kind. You won't free yourself. Whatever you do. And no superhero will find you here. Jacques will stay, to make sure nobody finds you until Papillon comes back." She patted softly on her cheek. "Yes, Marinette. Papillon wants you spared, to akumatise you. He thinks you'd be his best akuma. Un altro imbecille (3). You must die, and I will make sure you will, this time. This time you won't ruin my plans. I'll be the winner at the end and the real pipe-dream will be yours!" Her face lit up with an eerie light as she sneered. "Mors tua, vita mea(4), after all. You brought this on yourself."

Cackling, she moved to the door. "Jacques? I'm done with her. I'll go to Prince Ali's ceremony now, give me some time to talk to him, okay?"

"I'll make sure the cat won't find her, sweetie. Don't worry."

A wave of disgust shook Marinette's gut when Lila gave the man a quick peck on the lips. But as Lila closed the door behind her and the man kept staring at where she left dreamily, Tikki popped out of her shirt and looked at her with a determined frown.

"Don't worry, Marinette. We'll figure out something!"

All Marinette could do was dart her gaze towards one of the windows of the boat, but Tikki shook her head.

"I won't leave you alone."

Marinette closed her eyes and lowered her head.

oOoOoOoOoOo

"Any sign of her, Rena?" said Chat Noir to his communicator.

Chloé had been more clingy than she used to be in the bad times, but as soon as he'd managed to get rid of her, he transformed and started looking for Marinette. The ceremony for Prince Ali's engagement hadn't even started yet, but he didn't give a damn. It was unusual of Marinette to not contact anyone for hours, and his gut feeling told him she was in danger.

"No sign of her anywhere. She won't even answer her bugphone."

Chat Noir sighed. "I know. I've been calling her non stop for hours on both phones. I have a nasty feeling about this."

Carapace appeared near Rena on her communicator. "Don't worry, dude. We'll find her," he said before Rena hung up.

"Hope so, bro." Chat Noir looked at his baton with concern. It felt like a useless exercise to look for her in superhero form. Wherever she was, it wasn't in full sight. There was only one other thing he could do. He opened his communicator again and dialed Nathalie's number.

To be continued… Day 19

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

Notes:

Alla buon'ora = At bloody last! (Italian)

Che imbecille = What an idiot (Italian)

Un altro imbecille = Another idiot (Italian)

Mors Tua Vita Mea = Your death, my life (Latin)

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

Author's Note

Well.. so now you know. Lila wasn't seething in the distance for no reason at the end of the other chapter. Marinette has pushed her buttons a little too much and… well, she may have gone a bit extreme but, why not?

I hope you liked it and will leave me a comment. You know that comments are my bread and butter!

Until tomorrow, bug out!

[nephilim-tara]

(Georgie Henley, 25, she/her) We have been waiting for a while, but TARA JOHNSON was finally spotted in the village today. People heard whispers that they are a NEPHILIM that is hellbent on staying away from the veils. Will they succeed? Only time can tell. Until then we will keep a close eye on them as they listen to SHE BY DODIE. (Alywn, they/them, 21, UTC+1)

Basic Information

Full Name: Tara Alys Rachel Johnson

Birthday: 23rd June

Gender & pronouns: female, she/her

Sexuality: Lesbian

Hometown: Wildemount, England (originally Llanfair Caereinion)

Species: Nephilim

Occupation: Bookbinder at Wildemount Library, Volunteer at Wildemount Homeless Centre

Basic biography:

Born to a single mother in Llanfair Caereinion, Wales, Tara grew up unaware of her nephilim status through protections her mother had placed on her as a baby. They were never exactly comfortable with money, but there was always food on the table and a warm bed to crawl into at the end of the night, and she never really cared for more. Would it have been nice? Probably. But at the time, she felt as though she had the world at her fingertips. Her younger sister, born ten years later, brought more questions into their lives about how much they could afford, and her mother was offered a stable job with a better income in Wildemount when Tara was 11. She finished primary school in Welsh, and then moved before the start of secondary school.

{tw: medical} At 18, she went to university at Wildemount university - not wanting to leave her part time job and the money it brings in for her mother and sister - to study English and History as a dual major. She loved her courses, and worked to the point of exhaustion constantly, to the worry of her friends and family. As soon as she finished, she collapsed for two months and had to spend time in and out of the hospital until she recovered. She quit her physical part time job, and took up the going job of book binder at the library instead, earning a comfortable wage without stressing out her body. A few months later, she started volunteering at the homeless shelter, with a proise not to push herself as hard as she once did ever again. {end of tw}

She found out she was a nephilim when the leyline was ripped open, and her mother sat both daughters down to explain everything that was happening. Tara, frankly, wanted to go back to not knowing. Who cares if her absentee father was an angelic deadbeat, rather than a human one? She’s aware that it should come with powers, but she’s not exactly sure how to use them. Maybe if someone could show her useful powers, like healing, she might be inclinded to use them. Of course, she is blissfullly unaware that she uses her sedation power on both her family and friends and people at the homeless centre without her realising that they are magical, rather than mundane, tricks.

Random Facts:

Tara is fluent in three modern languages (English, Welsh and French) and can also understand Ancient Greek and Latin, as she learnt them through her history degree. She can speak Biblical Hebrew relatively well, but she doesn’t speak much Yiddish at all, and her Aramiac is just rote learning of prayers.

She uses her powers a lot more than she realises, but she's got very little control over them. She'll send someone to sleep through magic by accident, and if she helps someone clean out wounds, they'll heal quicker, but she proably couldn't do it on purpose yet.

Below her incredibly fake mask of happy-go-lucky hard worker, she's really, really angry. At her dad, for abonding her and leaving her with this magical gift she never wanted, at having to stay home to help look after her mom and sister and at everything invading her little safe space. She's also autistic, although she doesn't tend to mention it - the masking mostly covers it up. She can't deal with bad textures though, and that's generally how other people tend to find out.

She’s Jewish, and relatively religious. Does she believe in a God? Hmmm, maybe. Seems a little odd to be completely athetistic considering she’s part ANGEL, but she’s not convinced. Still, she’ll go to her synagogue week in, week out, and she enjoys being part of the community. She still prays three times a day, and keeps kosher inside the house (it’s quite difficult to find kosher restuarnts in a little village in England, even if there is a jewish presence. She’s have to go to Manchester, Birmingham, or London if she wanted kosher certified ones.)

[apenitentialprayer]

Ambiguities in the Nature of Possessing Spirits

Put differently, just as symptoms of afflictions needed to be diagnosed prior to a definition of possession, possessing spirits themselves needed to be discerned. Possession indicated an involuntary encounter between a human being and a spirit of an undefined nature. The large majority of medieval and early modern theologians argued that the possessing spirit was likely to be an angel or a fallen angel (a demon), but even this assertion was not above doubt. Among the laity and some clergymen, alternative traditions were also common. Some theologians and many laypeople held that the spirits of the dead could also come back to haunt and (more rarely) possess humans. And while orthodoxy had it that most apparitions of and possessions by the dead were demonic deceptions, a confusion concerning the identity of possessing entities was common enough. The importance of this point cannot be overstated, because this hesitancy concerning the identity of possessing entities -were they deceased, demonic, or divine?- shaped many of the cases[...] In 1527 Anthoinette de Grollee, a nun in the reformed convent of Saint-Pierre in Lyon, felt that somebody was lifting her veil and kissing her while she was asleep. More kisses followed on succeeding nights, and, together with growing noises that were heard from the nun's room, they alarmed the abbess to suspect the presence of a spirit. Anthoinette was the first to hypothesize that she was being disturbed by the disembodied spirit of her good friend Alis de Tissieur. The latter was among the nuns brought into Saint-Pierre following its reform. Alis was never happy there and got depressed and, worse yet, was given to “abandoning her honor at any time.” She left the convent but continued to live dangerously, her body becoming diseased and deformed. In 1524, blind, ugly, and partially paralyzed, Alis repented and asked the Virgin Mary if she could be buried in her beloved convent. Alas, she died on the road and was buried without a funeral or prayers. Years earlier, while Alis was still in the convent, she befriended the young novice Anthoinette. Now, almost ten years later, Anthoinette suspected that her friend had come back from the afterlife to ask for help in getting her wish fulfilled. Once the spirit was conjured to tell the truth, Anthoinette’s suspicion was confirmed. The abbess than brought Alis’s bones into the chapel, but before the nuns had time to rebury their deceased ex-sister, violent noises of knocking disrupted the prayer. In the meantime, a rumor spread in Lyon that a nun was possessed, and the bishop of Lyon and Father Adrien de Montalembert were called to advise whether the encounter between Anthoinette and Alis was a case of possession by a demonic spirit or an apparition by a revenant, and given the diagnosis, what the best way to deliver the spirit would be. [...] Note that the exorcism was not intended to cast out Anthoinette's demon but to merely discern its nature. Yet Montalembert had to admit that there were no clear rules to distinguish the souls of the dead from evil spirits. Avoiding risks, the bishop then started to exorcise both the church itself and Anthoinette, but loud knocks from underneath the ground prevented him from pursuing the ceremony. Ordering the nuns to chant the entire book of Psalms and to confess, he left. The nuns spent the following day praying, and only when their task was completed did the bishop resume the exorcism. At this stage, the bishop was treating the entity within Anthoinette as if it were a demon. He cursed and adjured it in Latin and had Montalembert translate the adjurations into French for the benefit of the huge crowd that was present just outside the walls: "You, destroyer of truth, listen to our pronouncements against you frauds. God commands you to leave this place." The bishop then excommunicated the demon and forbade it to come back, cursing it with eternal damnation. Then Alis's bones were brought into the church. Anthoinette (and her spirit) were placed opposite Alis, and then the bishop renewed his interaction with the spirit. Now, however, his first question was whether it was the spirit of the deceased sister, to which the spirit answered "yes." It then went on to recognize the bones as its own. As a disembodied and wandering soul rather than a demon, the spirit then conversed with the bishop, offering different types of knocks for positive and negative answers. Alis’s spirit confirmed the existence of guardian angels, and recounted its own encounter with the devil himself. It affirmed the existence of purgatory and asserted that prayers, alms, good works, fasts, pilgrimages, and indulgences were all beneficent for the salvation of souls. In all these answers, she “contradicted and condemned the damned assertions of the false heretic Lutherans.” [...] The edifying discourse over, Anthoinette (or was it Alis’s spirit?) knelt in front of each nun and asked forgiveness, while the bishop ordered a set of absolutions and prayers to deliver Alis from purgatory. A month later, Alis appeared on last time to Anthoinette, announcing that due to the nuns’ prayers and the Virgin’s intercession, her sojourn in purgatory was shortened, and she would soon depart to paradise. [...] In their rush to prove the truths of the Catholic Church, [the bishop of Lyon and Montalembert] ignored the more prevalent theological view, according to which spirits who claimed to be disembodied souls should never be trusted, because they were nothing but demonic entities. And like the two distinguished clerics, neither the nuns nor the many thousands of Lyonnais who gathered outside the convent doubted the presence of Alis within Anthoinette and, more generally, the possession by a human soul.

Moshe Sluhovsky  (Believe Not Every Spirit: Possession, Mysticism, and Discernment in Early Modern Catholicism, pages 17, 17-18, 18-19, 19). Emphasis added.

[hellomynudebrain]

Paths (Jumin X reader) Part#18

The party is near, and between your work and the party, you were more busier than ever. Most of the people could think you were stress or maybe overwhelmed with all the work, but in fact you weren't.  Since that day on Jumin's villa, you felt way lighter than before and Jumin and you become much more closer than before. You spent your free days together, eating in some high class restaurant, playing with Elizabeth, trying bottles of wine while talkign about your lifes. You were more honest, which means the constant fights lessen and he laughed more often  when you met him. You were clumsy sometimes like when you were with Jihyun but Jumin didn't matter, he was having fun spending time with you. 

But after some good days with Jumin, suddenly he became distant and started to arrive late. You didn't want to get worried but you did. Maybe he found someone he really likes and that's why he turned like that.  One night, he offered to bring you to a nice restaurant with excelent Italian food, but in the middle of the dinner he got up from his chair and left the room. 

"Excuse me, I need to attend this phone call"

"Yes, work is work...so you can go...hahaha..."

You were curious about the call, so you followed him and see his reactions. The restaurant had the perfect wall for you to hide. So you put yourself behind it and picked on one side. You could see him smiling and he looked so relaxed while he was making the phone call. Maybe he did found someone. That bothered you, but you weren't his "real" girlfriend, which means you haven't the right to be jelous. Resignated, you went back to your table. 

A few minutes later he came back to the table, too. But his smile was so abroad that it was hard to hide it. Sudden, you weren't hungry and the conversation wasn't interesting anymore. You only looked down the food and answer his questions without care. Jumin was so happy that this time he didn't notice the change of your mood. The rest of the night passed. 

The next day you were thinking in Jumin's call. Maybe he did find someone to be with and he didn't end your relationship since you have a contract, and the contract establised that you have to be together until the party. Your chest hurted a little with the thought of you and Jumin spliting off  after that day. You were confused about your feelings. 

The gaze that you had was lost on a wall of your office until that trance was broke off by you phone.It was Jumin. His timing was perfect almost as if you were calling him with your mind. You picked your phone, hesitated a bit, however you anwered.

"....Good afternoon....What can I do for you, Jumin?"

"Oh! It's good that you answered me like that. Tonight, I'll pick you up, driver Kim is going to arrive to you work and deliver a package with  the appropiate attire for this evening date. Please wear it, I didn't buy it. It was Seven and MC's purchase, so  if the outfit is not from your liking, it's not my fault....Anyhow...be ready at 8 pm, that's all." 

He hang up. 

You were surprise with the speed he talked. It sounded like he was in a hurry....Maybe he was about to dump you and that was the reason Seven and MC bought the outfit, maybe he used them to do the dirty job and it was a break up outfit...

Diver Kim arrived to your office and delivered the  package in your hands. He smiled at you like hidding somehing. Now, you were sure. Jumin was a bout to dump you and all were part of the plan, even driver Kim. After, you hesitated to wear whatever the package had, at the end you put yourself together and open the package.  

The dress was a simple but lovely red dress, light and with fluid movements when you weared it, dance heels and water proff make up.All was perfect to dance. How the hell Seven and MC new about your love for  dancing? Maybe Jumin will invite you to dance and dump you on the dance floor? Your mind was playing tricks on you and the worst, each scene was worst than the next one. You looked beautiful, you said when you were standing in front of the mirror on the restrooms of your work, but your sweaty hands and your dry mouth were telling to not go. But was too late, Jumin was outside of your wok place waiting for you. You took the elevator, you wanted to keep inside there all the eternity but unfourtunately, you arrived to the first floor and Jumin's limo is right in front of the entrance. You don't have where to run away. 

The door of the limo opened and inside  Jumin was wearing a light T-shirt in black  with brown colored jeans and a jacket. That surprise you, since you met him, you never saw him like that. He was about to dump you, it was for sure. He wouldn't dress like that for anyone at least was a woman who made him to do it. Again, you hesitated. The coward attitudes weren't your thing, you speak and act with no fear, but entering in that limo was the most terrifying thing in your life. But you put yourself together again, and with your fearful guts, you steped inside and jump to your broke up scene. You were nervous thinking in the worst scenes. Jumin wasn't good either. The clothes made them uncomfortable, and someway hard to think in something to talk. At this time, you have lost the count how many time you have this kind of mood in the limo with Jumin. The limo stoped and your fear and more scenes came to your mind, maybe Jumin would introduce to his real girlfriend and they will kiss infront of you...and how will you feel? How are you going to feel? The answer shaked you inside, you would feel broken again. 

Again lost in your thoughts, Jumin called you and brought you back to reality. You looked him in the eyes, your ideas and feelings were clear but at the same confusing. He smiled to you, took your hand and even with all the scenes in your head, you became brave again. 

The building was an old house with european style and flowers all over it. On the backround, you could hear music, but not any kind music. It was salsa music, cumbia and merengue, the musica you like to dance.

Once you and Jumin entered, a bunch of people scream...

"Surprise!"

"What?! Why?" 

You felt lost in words, that wasn't nothing like the scenes on your head. Your surprise got bigger when a women with long brown hair, white skin and hazelnut eyes came to you accompanied with a redhead with a funny pattern on his glasses and yellow eyes. 

"Hello! Agent 707 is here with Agents MC! Did we surprise you, fair lady?" The red head man talked.

You only nooded with your wide open mouth but no sound came from it.

"*giggles* That's great! Sorry, I'm MC and this crazy man is my husband" "....Oh, thank you! But today it's not my birthday..." You answered with a really confused voice.

"hahaha....Of course not silly! This is your welcome party to the RFA!" MC aswered you back.

All disoriented, Jumin took you from you arm and seat you in a table. "I want to apologize with you..."

"Why?" 

"Because I was a little distant with you the last few days, but it was to keep myself quite about the welcome party"

"Is this because of me?"

"Yes, MC and Saeyong wanted to give you a surprise as a welcome and as a gratitude for helping with the party" 

"Wow! Really?! This...is really a big surprise....hahaha....now I feel like a dumb for all my crazy ideas"

"What crazy ideas?" Jumin asked with curiosity. 

You bite your tongue.

"...no...forget it"  

All the RFA came to you and gave you a welcome gift. Zen and Eve gave you a kit for skincare, Yoosung and Alice, a direction of a refuge for cats and a collar for your next cat, Jaehee and Saeran a pair of coffee cups for couples and finally MC and Saeyong a RFA ID, however when those last two go away. Saeyong came back to you and whispered something on your ear. 

"Here, use them wisely~" And ran away wiking his eye. He put a little box on your hand, it was wrapped in a pretty red paper. You got courious, but suddenly Ali took your hand and brought you to the food table. You put the little box and put it on Jumin's jacket.

You eat and drink, the party could be small but all the people were really enjoyed it. 

There was even a dance floor. Ali was teaching how to dance latin rhythms, Eve and Zen were kiling it on the dance floor dancing as profesionals, Jaehee  was talking and drinking with MC since she has a broken leg, thought Saeran was only drinking juice as Saeyong was making fun of him.

However, Jumin and you were seeing all having fun, you wanted to dance but you were a coward and didn't want to ask Jumin. And Jumin was embarrased because he only knew how to dance waltz and tango, and none of the songs they were dancing was one. 

Zen noticed you wanted to get to dance and since Jumin hadn't the guts to take you at the dance floor. He went to your place and grabed your hand. Zen and you were on the dance floor dancing, at first, you felt weird because Zen was dancing with Eve and they were hell good, but at that moment you were dancing as you used to do before and enjoyed it. Both of you were dancing in perfect synchrony, Eve was happy to see both of you dancing, however, there was a man who started to drink with a sour face, a bottle of wine when you started to dance with Zen. Jumin.

Jumin felt rage against Zen, because he was dancing so near to you, touching you...All that made him mad, and each glass of wine he drank made him madder. 

You were having the time of the year, dancing until your feet hurted, so happy that made you thirsty which made you drink more. 

Finally, Jumin tired of seeing you dance with Zen, stood up from his seat and walked through the dance floor, tapped on Zen's shoulder and talked.

"Zen, I think it's enough dance with MY girlfriend. Love, I don't know how to dance this rhythms, could you teach me?"

You looked Zen, and Zen as a gentleman, set aside and let Jumin dance with you. 

Jumin was stiff but as a patient teacher, you helped him to move and started to dance. His movements were clumpsy but that only made both of you laugh as sillies. 

The song changed and a salsa with a smother sound came, you felt awkard but Jumin took you from you waist and got closer to you. The tension was evident. You looked at him he looked at you, your noses were near as you felt his breath on you, his touch and the smooth music on the background. You automatically close you eyes and he got near your mouth. 

His lips and your lips touched  in a kiss, suddenly he turned his kiss deeper and his tongue started to play with yours. You wanted more and more, but you were interrupted.

"*whistling* Get a room and use my present!!" The redhead with glasses screamed at you.

You remembered, both of you were in a party and you kissed in front of them. You stoped and felt embarrased, but even so, you want more, what made you more embarrased and redder. 

Jumin looked at you and couldn't stand how cute you were at that moment. Maybe was the alcohol or the dance, but he lean to you, kiss your cheek and whispered something on your ear. 

"Let's go back home and continue this~"

You were mesmerized for the kiss and agreed with him. Both say goodbye to everyone and ran to the limo.

[globalworship]

O Euchari (Hildegard von Bingen) sung by Azam Ali

First, a note on the singer who I’ve followed for decades:

Azam Ali (Persian: اعظم علی‎) is a well-known Iranian singer and musician. Ali has released ten albums with the bands VAS and Niyaz and friends, as well as multiple solo albums. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Azam_Ali

In this video from summer 2020, she sings a famous song composed by Hildegard von Bingen. Information on the song below, including English translation of the lyrics.

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Azam Ali wrote about this song:

Composed by 12th Century Christian mystic, writer, composer, philosopher, Hildegard Von Bingen, a visionary who left behind a treasure trove of illuminated manuscripts, treatises on theology, medicine, botany, the arts, & above all her extraordinary music.

It is her music & this very song in fact which I heard at the age of 18, that made me want to sing. I was originally going to record this for my 2002 album "Portals of Grace" but settled on another composition of hers. 

Hildegard for me is a feminist icon whose contributions to the canon of universal spirituality & mysticism, are immeasurable. Her work transcends centuries & musical, religious/mystical genres. It awakened me to the ancient philosophy of "The Music of the Spheres.” That if the human body is made entirely of elements forged by stars, then indeed we are celestial bodies & the cosmos is within us. If the rotation of heavenly spheres produce tones & harmony, then they must resonate within us. Thus, music in its most sublime form, is our participation in the harmony of the universe. That we may bring some harmony to our souls in our longing to return to our celestial home.

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For the Latin lyrics, go to https://lyricstranslate.com/en/o-euchari-leta-o-st-eucharius.html which is also the source for this English translation:

1a. O St. Eucharius, you walked upon the blessed way when with the Son of God you stayed— you touched the man and saw with your own eyes his miracles.

1b. You loved him perfectly while your companions trembled, frightened by their mere humanity, unable as they were to gaze entirely upon the good.

2a. But you embraced him in the ardent love of fullest charity— you gathered to yourself the bundles of his sweet commands.

2b. O St. Eucharius, so deeply blessed you were when God’s Word drenched you in the fire of the dove illumined like the dawn you laid and built upon the Church’s one foundation.

3a. And in your breast burst forth the light of day— the gleam in which three tents upon a marble pillar stand within the City of our God.

3b. For through your mouth the Church can savor the wine both old and new— the cup of sanctity.

4a. Yet in your teaching, too, the Church embraced her rationality— her voice cried out above the peaks to call the hills and woods to be laid low, to suck upon her breasts.

4b. Now in your crystal voice pray to the Son of God for this community, lest it should fail in serving God, but rather as a living sacrifice might burn before the altar of our God.

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Some of the meaning:

O Euchari, like Columba aspexit, was almost certainly written for the clergy at Trier. Saint Eucharius was a third-century missionary who became the bishop of the city. Stanza one evokes his years as an itinerant preacher (during which he performed miracles). The ‘fellow-travellers’ of stanza two are presumably Valerius and Maternus, his companions in the missionary work. The ‘three shrines’ of stanza five (compare Matthew 17: 4) represent the Trinity and perhaps, if we follow the Glossa Ordinaria, the triple piety of words, thoughts and deeds. The ‘old and the new wine’ of stanza six represent the Testaments: Ecclesia savours both, but the Synagogue, like the ‘old bottles’ of Christ’s parable, cannot sustain the New. Hildegard closes the Sequence with a prayer that the people of Trier may never revert to the paganism in which Eucharius found them, but may always re-enact the redemptive sacrifice of Christ in the form of the Mass.

from notes by Christopher Page © 1982 https://www.hyperion-records.co.uk/dw.asp?dc=W2933_GBAJY8403905

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The first version of this song that I heard was on the highly innovative album of Hildegard’s songs arranged with “worldbeat music” by Richard Souther, now an acquaintance. The album is ‘Vision’ and here is that version of the same song:

I like both versions of the song a great deal, and you’ll find many more on Youtube.

[grimdarkandhandsome]

USA State Mottos, Ranked

Epistemic status: Silly post.

Yesterday i realized the 50 states of the US had eclectic and delightful mottos. I’ve ranked them for you from coolest to uncoolest.

1: Ad astra per aspera - Kansas

To the stars through difficulties. This is beautiful and it looks great written out. I am confident Kansas will be the state closest to the stars (after resolving difficulties).

2: Salus populi suprema lex esto - Missouri

Let the welfare of the people be the supreme law. It sounds great, it’s grand, it’s bold, and it’s a wonderful priority.

3: Regnat populus - Arkansas

The people rule. I imagine a time traveler approaching Emperor Nero and saying, ‘I have two words for you....’

4: Labor omnia vincit - Oklahoma

Labor conquers all things. It’s a great attitude towards self-improvement, and i think more phrases should end in omnia vincit.

5: Sic semper tyrannis - Virginia

Thus always to tyrants. The flag clarifies the situation by showing a emperor being stabbed. This is delightfully overaggressive when placed next to Washington’s motto.

6: Excelsior - New York

Ever upward. A nice-sounding word. Definitely sounds like a sword.

7: Esse quam videri - North Carolina

To be, rather than to seem. A pretty cool choice of priority. Not like those videri states with their big gold cufflinks.

8: Dum spiro spero - South Carolina

While I breathe, I hope. A harmonious phrase that celebrates the indefatigable human potential for improvement.

9: Equality before the law - Nebraska

Choosing English instead of a stylish foreign language is a missed opportunity to show off. But this phrase gets better the more you repeat it. I like to imagine that when Nebraskans are cornered by journalists they just bark ‘Equality before the law!’ and close ranks.

10: Ua mau ke ea o ka ʻāina i ka pono - Hawaii

The life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness. It’s in a local language, it’s very beautiful written out, it outlines a plan to benefit the entire ecosystem, and it’s just generally quite radiant.

11: Alis volat propriis - Oregon

She flies with her own wings. Very cool sentiment. Only marked down because the words don’t look quite as cool as omnia does.

12: Dirigo - Maine

I lead. It’s terse, it’s taut, it’s claiming victory out of nowhere, it’s Maine.

13: Live Free or Die - New Hampshire

Penalty for using boring English, but bonus for being the only state to realize you can append ‘or Die’ to any motto.

14: Audemus jura nostra defendere - Alabama

We dare defend our rights! Bonus for being the only state to realize you can prepend Audemus to any motto.

15: Serit ut alteri saeclo prosit - North Dakota

One sows for the benefit of another age. Yes, i know, it kindof sounds like ‘Search for the altered sequin among the prosaic’, but the meaning is quite cool. Radical long-game altruism.

16: Si quaeris peninsulam amoenam circumspice - Michigan

If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about you. What??

17: Eureka - California

I have found it. A counterpoint to Maine’s Dirigo, and a geographical counterpoint as well.

18: Equal Rights - Wyoming

A wonderful priority, and charmingly bald phrasing.

19: Alki - Washington

By and by. This is Chinook, apparently. Washington is apparently the opposite of Alabama, who dares to defend.

20: Crescit eundo - New Mexico

It grows as it goes. I don’t like it as much as Ad astra per aspera, but i decided to rank all improvement mottos evenhandedly to avoid bias from the order i read them in.

21: Esto perpetua - Idaho

Let it be perpetual. It is quite verbally beautiful and it captures what we were all thinking - Let Idaho be the same forever!

22: Friendship - Texas

Could be phrased more stylishly, but it really is a rather nice motto.

23: Under God the people rule - South Dakota

I imagine a South Dakotan time traveler in 1300 CE pulling her hair and saying, ‘Oh my gosh, it’s not that hard, how many times to i have to explain the hierarchy?’

24: Montani semper liberi - West Virginia

Mountaineers are always free. Cheeky!

25: Deo gratiam habeamus - Kentucky

Let us be grateful to God. Very resonant words. Less focused on improvement and more remarking on the fact we made it this far.

26: State sovereignty, national union - Illinois

I know it’s confusing, but we put it in the motto and eventually you’ll get used to the concept. What a nerdy motto!

27: Nil sine numine - Colorado

Nothing without Providence. What beautiful and assonant words. A theme of several states is ‘The big thing is totally paramount, but the small thing is also cool just in a secondary sort of way.’

28: Forward - Wisconsin

In its troughs and at new peaks, Wisconsin always wants to do better :)

29: Industry - Utah

I didn’t know that. But it is a cool attitude. They say that most domains of human endeavor require hard work first of all.

30: Wisdom, Justice, Moderation - Georgia

I just think it’s a little boring. But i like prioritizing wisdom.

31: Virtue, liberty, and independence - Pennsylvania

The last two are, like, the same thing.

32: Qui transtulit sustinet - Connecticut

He who transplanted sustains. Apparently this is a phrase from the Vulgate Bible. I’m guessing the Europeans are the ones who transplanted. I like the sonics but i’m not convinced on the sentiment.

33: Fatti maschii, parole femine - Maryland

Strong deeds, gentle words. Note: I found that translation on Wikipedia and i don’t speak Latin so i don’t know if it’s the best one. I think this motto sounds like a humorously awkward compromise and probably seemed offensive from a 1800s-gender perspective as well as from a modern gender perspective.

34: With God, all things are possible - Ohio

Ohions are optimists whereas Coloradons are pessimists.

35: Liberty and prosperity - New Jersey

Tedious ‘list of nice things’ format, but i kindof like looking at New Jersey as a Utopian El Dorado.

36: Ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem - Massachusetts

By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty. Sir, can you lower your sword and read me those criteria again?

37: Hope - Rhode Island

Inferior version of Dum spiro spero, but pleasantly minimal.

38: All For Our Country - Nevada

Typical Nevadan slogan, a people known for their radical push for big government and federal power.

39: Agriculture & Commerce - Tennessee

Not really cool enough for a crowd to shout in unison with their hands over their hearts. But at least it celebrates feeding the people i guess.

40: Ditat Deus - Arizona

God enriches. A weird mix of 100% religious and very lukewarm. God is a plus. Never turn down God when you don’t have to pay extra for Him. But the words do sound nice.

41: Stella quarta decima fulgeat - Vermont

May the fourteenth star shine bright. I hope the fourteenth state is a good one. This one has a impressively high style-to-substance ratio.

42: L’etoile du Nord - Minnesota

The star of the North. I’m not that impressed. If Oregon, Texas, and New York had joined in and chosen L’etoile du Ouest, Sud, & Est respectively, then this would have been cool. Pleasantly unique choice of language tho.

43: Virtute et armis - Mississippi

By valor and arms. Suddenly, we are amoral & fighting! Mississippi is apparently the most weapon-themed state.

44: North to the Future - Alaska

It was wise to clarify why North is good. Minnesota would have chosen A star featuring Anchorage.

45: Our liberties we prize & our rights we will maintain - Iowa

I don’t know, it’s just not exciting phrasing. Our lives are of utmost importance, & our safety will be protected. We have wonderful dogs, & we love our cats. Iowa is being maintained. Needs work.

46: Union, justice, confidence - Louisiana

Are these the top 3? Do political attack ads here accuse candidates of being secessionist, lax, and meek?

47: Liberty & Independence - Delaware

Freedom & Self-Direction. Free Will & Autonomy. Adulthood & Unpredictability. Wild & Unleashed.

48: Oro y plata - Montana

Gold & silver. Why should you live in Montana? Cash cash money. Autos deportivos y bling.

49: The Crossroads of America - Indiana

Next.

50: In God We Trust - Florida

Perhaps in Florida, bad things do not happen to good people.

Honorable mentions:

- Justitia Omnibus - Washington DC

Excellent!

- Samoa, Muamua Le Atua - American Samoa

Translation: Samoa, let God be first. (Samoa, imma let you finish...)

- Joannes Est Nomen Ejus - Puerto Rico

Translation: John is his name. Enough said.

(Honestly i changed my mind about the order partway thru typing this but didnt bother to reorder them.)

I think the messy inconsistency of these mottos is fairly beautiful. Despite having no style guide and apparently quite scattered priorities, these 50 governments share open borders and pretty excellent harmony by international standards.

Source: Wikipedia

[scotianostra]

On February 8th 1587 Mary Queen of Scots was beheaded at Fotheringay Castle.

I have used a few different sources to piece together the actual eye witness accounts of our Queen's last moments and the execution itself, beforehand I will briefly go through the life she led until this fateful day

Mary's troubles began six days after her birth in 1542. It was on that day that her father, King James V of Scotland, died and the infant was declared Queen of the Scots. She was immediately thrust into a cauldron of political turmoil containing a broiling mix of the long-standing enmity between Scotland and England, the fragility of the Tudor succession to the English throne, England's rivalry with France, and the religious violence between Catholics and Protestants.

As the great-granddaughter of England's Henry VII, Mary was next in line to the crown of England after Henry VIII's children - Edward, Mary and Elizabeth. The Scots attempted to remove the threat posed to Henry's succession by pledging the new-born Mary to marriage with his son Edward. This plan soon self-destructed, however, and the Scots turned to their old ally (and England's old enemy) France. Mary was sent there at age six for her upbringing and education. She would marry the French Dauphin, but, always a sickly child, he died before they could produce and heir, the family couldn't get rid of her fast enough afterwards. 

The 18-year-old Mary returned to Scotland in 1561 to reign as Queen of her subjects. Contrary to all expectations, Queen and subjects initially achieved an accommodation. However, this situation quickly deteriorated.

In 1565 Mary married her first cousin Henry, Lord Darnley and gave birth to a son - James - the following year. In 1567, her husband was murdered and Mary quickly married the Scottish Earl of Bothwell an action that outraged the Scottish nobility who promptly imprisoned Mary and forced her to abdicate her throne to her one-year-old son, James.

The following year Mary escaped from her prison but was forced to flee across the border with England after the defeat of her supporters at the Battle of Langside, near Glasgow, on May 13. Instead of the refuge she anticipated, Mary was immediately imprisoned by Queen Elizabeth and spent the next 19 years shuffling from castle to castle while her cousin deliberated what to do with her. Mary became a lighting rod for plots and rumoured plots against Elizabeth. Finally, in 1587, Elizabeth was persuaded to end the threat to her throne once and for all and ordered Mary's execution.

Mary's execution took place at Fotheringhay Castle. Pierre de Bourdeille, seigneur de Brantome was a member of the French nobility who accompanied Mary during her internment. He provides us with a sympathetic account of Mary's execution that begins with the arrival of a delegation from Queen Elizabeth announcing that the former Queen of the Scots is to be executed the next day:

"On February 7, 1587, the representatives of the English Queen, reached the Castle of Fotheringay, where the Queen of Scotland was confined at that time, between two and three o'clock in the afternoon. In the presence of her jailer, Paulet, they read their commission regarding the execution of the prisoner, and said that they would proceed with their task the next morning between seven and eight o'clock. The jailer was then ordered to have everything in readiness.Without betraying any astonishment, the Queen thanked them for their good news, saying that nothing could be more welcome to her, since she longed for an end to her miseries, and had been prepared for death ever since she had been sent as a prisoner to England. However, she begged the envoys to give her a little time in which to make herself ready, make her will, and place her affairs in order. It was within their power and discretion to grant these requests. The Count of Shrewsbury replied rudely,

'No, no, Madam you must die, you must die! Be ready between seven and eight in the morning. It cannot be delayed a moment beyond that time.' 

Mary spent the rest of the day and the early hours of the next morning writing farewell letters to friends and relatives, saying goodbye to her ladies-in-waiting, and praying. We rejoin de Bourdeille's account as Mary enters the room designated for her execution and is denied access to her priest:

"The scaffold had been erected in the middle of a large room. It measured twelve feet along each side and two feet in height, and was covered by a coarse cloth of linen.

The Queen entered the room full of grace and majesty, just as if she were coming to a ball. There was no change on her features as she entered. Drawing up before the scaffold, she summoned her major-domo and said to him: 'Please help me mount this. This is the last request I shall make of you.' Then she repeated to him all that she had said to him in her room about what he should tell her son. Standing on the scaffold, she asked for her almoner, (chaplain) begging the officers present to allow him to come. But this was refused point-blank. The Count of Kent told her that he pitied her greatly to see her thus the victim of the superstition of past ages, advising her to carry the cross of Christ in her heart rather than in her hand. To this she replied that it would be difficult to hold a thing so lovely in her hand and not feel it thrill the heart, and that what became every Christian in the hour of death was to bear with him the true Symbol of Redemption."

It must have troubled her deeply not to have the comfort of her Chaplain at this the hour of her death, and  in my opinion it was a cruel thing to do to this very devout woman. Back to the eye witness account......

Standing on the scaffold, Mary angrily rejects her captors' offer of a Protestant minister to give her comfort. She kneels while she begs that Queen Elizabeth spare her ladies-in-waiting and prays for the conversion of the Isle of Britain and Scotland to the Catholic Church:"When this was over, she summoned her women to help her remove her black veil, her head-dress, and other ornaments. When the executioner attempted to do this, she cried out:'Nay, my good man, touch me not!'But she could not prevent him from touching her, for when her dress was lowered as far as her waist; the scoundrel caught her roughly by the arm and pulled off her doublet. Her skirt was cut so low that her neck and throat, whiter than alabaster, were revealed. She concealed these as well as she could, saying that she was not used to disrobing in public, especially before so large an assemblage. There were about four or five hundred people present.

The executioner fell to his knees before her and implored her forgiveness. The Queen told him that she willingly forgave him and alI who were responsible for her death, as freely as she hoped her sins would be forgiven by God. Turning to the woman to whom she, had given her handkerchief, she asked for it. She wore a golden crucifix, made out of the wood of the true cross, with a picture of Our Lord on it. She was about to give this to one of her women, but the executioner forbade it, even though Her Majesty had promised that the woman would give him thrice its value in money.

After kissing her women once more, she bade them go, with her blessing, as she made the sign of the cross over them. One of them was unable to keep from crying, so that the Queen had to impose silence upon her by saying she had promised that nothing of the kind would interfere with the business in hand. They were to stand back quietly, pray to God for her soul, and bear truthful testimony that she had died in the bosom of the Holy Catholic religion.

One of the women then tied the handkerchief over her eyes. The Queen quickly, and with great courage, knelt dawn, showing no signs of faltering. So great was her bravery that all present were moved, and there were few among them that could refrain from tears. In their hearts they condemned themselves far the injustice that was being done.

The executioner, or rather the minister of Satan, strove to kill not only her body but also her soul, and kept interrupting her prayers. The Queen repeated in Latin the Psalm beginning In te, Damine, speravi; nan canfundar in aeternum. When she was through she laid her head on the block, and as she repeated the prayer, the executioner struck her a great blow upon the neck, which was not, however, entirely severed. Then he struck twice more, since it was obvious that he wished to make the victim's martyrdom all the more severe. It was not so much the suffering, but the cause, that made the martyr.

The executioner then picked up the severed head and, showing it to those present, cried out: 'God save Queen Elizabeth! May all the enemies of the true Evangel thus perish!'

Saying this, he stripped off the dead Queen's head-dress, in order to show her hair, which was now white, and which she had been afraid to show to everyone when she was still alive, or to have properly dressed, as she did when her hair was fair and light.

It was not old age that had turned it white, for she was only thirty-five when this took place, and scarcely forty when she met her death, but the troubles, misfortunes, and sorrows which she had suffered, especially in her prison." From other sources on the execution  we are told "Into Thy hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit,” she whispered in Latin, as the executioner raised his axe and swung. To his horror, he missed, merely grazing the Queen's head.

"Sweet Jesus,” she was heard groaning quietly as the axe was lifted again. This time, it nearly severed neck from body. Angry and exasperated, the executioner sawed through the remaining flesh. The head rolled away, while the body fell on its back, bleeding.

I turn to Robert Wynkfeilde, the official observer at the execution, who wrote in his account  that her lips remained moving for a quarter of an hour after her decapitation......

The Queen kneeled downe on the Cufhion refolutely, and without any Token of Fear of Death, fayde allowde in Lattine, the Pfalme, In to domine confido: Then groaping for the block, thee layde down hir Head, putting hir cheane over hir backe with bothe hir hands, which holding there fill, had been cut off, had they not been efpyed.Att laft while one of the Executioners held hir ftreightly with one of his Hands, the other gave two Stroakes with an Axe before he did cutt of hir Head, and yet left a little grifsle behinde.She made very famll noyfe, no Part ftirred from the Place where thee laye. The Execu­tioners lifted upp the Head, and bad God fave the Queen. Then her dreffing of Lawne fell from hir Head, which apeared as a greye as if the had been threefcore and ten Years old, powled very fhorte, her Face much atered, her lips stirred upp and downe almoft a Quarter of an Hower after her Head was cutt off.One of the Executioners plucking off her Garters, efpyed her little Dogg, which had crept vner her Cloathes, which would not be gotten forth but with Force; and afterwards would not departe from the dead corps, but came and layde between hir Head and Shoulders, a Thing much noted. The Dogg, embrewed in her bloud, was carryed awaye and wathed…

I wonder why, after her cruel execution they would not have made her ready for her funeral instead of  it becoming some sort of spectacle at a freak show, giving her no respect at all even in death.

The last paragraph of Wynkfeildes’ is especially heartbreaking about her wee dug, when the executioner went to remove Mary’s garters he noticed that her tiny pet dog had been hidden under her dress the whole time. They could not get the animal to abandon his dead mistress; it ran out from her clothes to lay down in the puddle of blood between her severed head and neck.

Mary, Queen of Scots was buried in Peterborough Cathedral, although when her son James succeeded Elizabeth as the ruler of England, he had her body exhumed and buried in Westminster Abbey. She remains there today, right across from her cousin who signed her death warrant.

I shall follow this post up tomorrow with reactions to the event.

[sundayeb06-blog]

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[mediazink]

JOSEFINE FROM STOCKHOLM; FIT, TATTOOED AND BODY POSITIVE!

"I got my first tattoo when I was 18. Its a small text in latin “Alis volat propriis” which means “She is flying on her own wings”. Back then it was a statment that anorexia couldnt rule me, eventhough I was pretty sick at the moment. Nowadays its all melted in in my sleeve."

http://mediazink.com/pt_jossan/

[zaynmalikupdates]

Zayn And Becky G release special version of "A Whole New World"

Song Is Performed In Spanish By Becky G And Will Be Featured In Disney's "Aladdin" In Latin Spanish Speaking Markets

Original Motion Picture Soundtrack To Feature Classic Score And Original Songs By Composer Alan Menken, Lyricists Howard Ashman And Tim Rice, Plus A New Song Written By Menken, Benj Pasek And Justin Paul

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

BURBANK, Calif., May 17, 2019 -- Multi-platinum and global award-winning superstar singer/songwriter ZAYN and global award-winning superstar singer/songwriter and actress Becky G are set to perform the Oscar and GRAMMY-winning duet "A Whole New World" ("Un Mundo Ideal").

The song will be featured in the film's end credits in Spanish speaking Latin American markets and on the Walt Disney Records Latin Spanish language soundtrack.

The new updated rendition of the classic song is produced by Saltwives aka Alex Oriet and David Phelan, and the music video will be directed by Philip Andelman.

The duet features ZAYN's vocals in English and Becky G's vocals in Spanish. "Un Mundo Ideal" is now available at streaming services and for download in the U.S. and Spanish-speaking markets.

"As with his choice of Zhavia Ward to duet in English, ZAYN impresses again with his personal selection of global superstar Becky G to duet with him, singing her parts in Spanish," said Mitchell Leib, president of Music & Soundtracks for the Walt Disney Studios. "This stunning "Spanglish" version really expands the footprint of ZAYN's modern interpretation of this all-time classic Disney song."

The timeless ballad, featuring Alan Menken's beautiful melody and Howard Ashman's unforgettable lyrics, received an Academy Award®, Golden Globe® Award and GRAMMY Award, among other accolades, upon its release in 1992.

The "Aladdin" original motion picture soundtrack features an unforgettable score from eight-time Oscar-winning composer Alan Menken ("Beauty and the Beast," "The Little Mermaid"), along with new recordings of the original songs written by Menken and two-time Academy Award winner Howard Ashman ("Little Shop of Horrors"), three-time Oscar winner Tim Rice ("The Lion King") and one song written by Menken and Oscar and Tony Award®-winning songwriters Benj Pasek and Justin Paul ("La La Land," "Dear Evan Hansen").

A thrilling and vibrant live-action adaptation of Disney's animated classic, "Aladdin" is the exciting tale of the charming street rat Aladdin, the courageous and self-determined Princess Jasmine and the Genie who may be the key to their future. "Aladdin" opens in U.S. theaters nationwide May 24, 2019 and in Latin America May 23 or 24, 2019 (depending on the market).

The Aladdin Spanish language soundtrack will be available at streaming and download services on May 21 at 9:00pm PT. For more information on Walt Disney Records releases, follow us at Facebook.com/Disney, Instagram/disneymusic, Twitter.com/disneymusic and our Disney Hits Playlist at http://disneymusic.co/DisneyHits.

About Aladdin:

Directed by Guy Ritchie ("Sherlock Holmes," "The Man from U.N.C.L.E."), who brings his singular flair for fast-paced, visceral action to the fictitious port city of Agrabah, "Aladdin" is written by John August ("Dark Shadows," "Big Fish") and Ritchie based on Disney's "Aladdin." The film stars Will Smith ("Ali," "Men in Black") as the larger-than-life Genie; Mena Massoud ("Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan") as the charming scoundrel Aladdin; Naomi Scott ("Power Rangers") as Jasmine, the beautiful, self-determined princess; Marwan Kenzari ("Murder on the Orient Express") as Jafar, the powerful sorcerer; Navid Negahban ("Legion") as the Sultan concerned with his daughter's future; Nasim Pedrad ("Saturday Night Live") as Dalia, Princess Jasmine's free-spirited best friend and confidante; Billy Magnussen ("Into the Woods") as the handsome and arrogant suitor Prince Anders; and Numan Acar ("The Great Wall") as Hakim, Jafar's right-hand man and captain of the palace guards.

"Aladdin" is produced by Dan Lin, p.g.a., ("Sherlock Holmes") and Jonathan Eirich, p.g.a., ("Death Note ") with Oscar® nominee and Golden Globe® winner Marc Platt ("La La Land") and Kevin De La Noy ("The Dark Knight Rises") serving as executive producers. "Aladdin" opens in U.S. theaters nationwide May 24, 2019.

About ZAYN:

ZAYN's debut album Mind of Mine was released in 2016 and saw him become the first male solo artist in the world to simultaneously chart at #1 in the UK and US album charts in the first week of release. The record was critically lauded upon release receiving widespread praise and adoration from fans. The album's lead single "Pillowtalk" hit #1 in 68 countries around the world, underlining his status as one of the most important artists of his generation. Since, ZAYN has collaborated with numerous global superstars, including Taylor Swift on "I Don't Wanna Live Forever," the title track from the soundtrack for "Fifty Shades Darker," which picked up an MTV VMA for Best Collaboration, and with SIA on the huge "Dusk Till Dawn" which was accompanied by a Mark Webb ("The Amazing Spider-Man," "500 Days of Summer") directed video with ZAYN starring alongside Jemima Kirke. The "Dusk Till Dawn" video has racked up over one billion views since its release.

Alongside building a reputation as a world class music artist, ZAYN has become one of music's biggest fashion icons. He has graced the cover of every major magazine from Highnobiety to Vogue. ZAYN has designed and released capsule collections including a sneaker collection with Giuseppe Zanotti and both male and female ranges for Versus Versace. In addition to being named 'Most Stylish Man' at the GQ Man of the Year Awards, he also was awarded 'New Artist of the Year' at the American Music Awards.

About Becky G:

Singer, songwriter and actress Becky G was born for the spotlight and her multifaceted career is shaping up to be nothing short of iconic. Her achievements include two number one hits on the Billboard Latin Airplay Charts ("Mayores" & "Sin Pijama"), a starring role in "Power Rangers," and guest-starring in Fox TV's Emmy-winning "Empire" series.

She recently won two 2018 Latin American Music Awards, for Favorite Female Artist and Favorite Urban Song (for "Mayores") and was awarded YouTube's Diamond Play Button for surpassing 10 million followers on the platform. Becky G has toured alongside Katy Perry, Demi Lovato, J Balvin, Fifth Harmony and Jason Derulo, and has recorded collabs with Pitbull, Daddy Yankee, Maluma, Anitta, Bad Bunny, Yandel, and CNCO, among others.

Becky has recently been honored by the Latin Recording Academy as a one of the Leading Ladies of Entertainment (2018) and by her home city of Inglewood, California for her contributions to the Hispanic community; and has been recognized as one of Rolling Stone's, "18 Teens Shaking Up Pop Culture" and one of Billboard's "21 Under 21."

SOURCE WALT DISNEY RECORDS

(via Pressparty)

[themutantunderground]

That One AU headcanons pt. 2

May or may not add these ideas to the AU. But I’m having fun coming up with possible plans.

-John, Clarice, and Marcos are the leader team for the Underground.

-Clarice is great with the kids that come through HQ, and she tries to make sure there’s at least one teacher at the HQ at all times. Since they’re constantly moving people on and out, that person is always changing, so the more permanent kids at HQ have the Most Eclectic education ever. Sometimes they just learn things from whoever they can. Norah knows Latin, James can do extremely high level math, and Ali can battle you on ethical theory. They all know Spanish thanks to Marcos.

-The Shelf Elf incident happened during everyone’s first Christmas at the HQ. Norah is the kid who loves the Shelf Elf. Ali and James refer to it as the Elf Demon King. John wishes it would just go away. Marcos would like to burn it. Clarice wants to ignore it.

-There is an unspoken rule that everyone has to participate in Movie Night unless there’s a super important mission. It is law.

-The movie is drawn out of a hat supposedly at random, but usually they secretly let Norah choose the first movie most of the time.

-I should do movie night headcanons on their own, I have a lot.

-Also should do pregnant!Clarice and protective!John headcanons.

-Lorna is a bit out of place at HQ at first. She bonds quickly with James and Ali though, especially when she suggests some combat training and chunks metal at them. They LOVE IT. They like the need for a quick response.

-John does NOT like it, at least not at first. He doesn’t like the fear tactics. Cue some arguing.

-James and Ali do go on missions with the team, but they’re never alone. They are the Distraction and Destruction side of most missions, they’re great at that.

-They’re also BFFs and not dating. Because of course they can’t date, they are BEST FRIENDS. Very affectionate besties.They’re basically already dating.

-Norah is basically Clarice and John’s kid.

-Zingo is Clarice’s dog. There are also quite a few cats and kittens thanks to John’s save-the-kittens policy.

-James and Ali get really hung up on the idea of infiltrating Empower Academy. They know they’re the only ones that could pass for young-enough (they’re both 18 by that point). But no one else is on board with their plan because it’s way too risky and the older mutants are a wee bit overprotective of them in this case.

-James and Ali ignore the older ones and go ahead with their plan.

-Does not end well.

[pubtheatres1]

Image: Sophie Treadwell GARRY by Sophie Treadwell White Bear Theatre, Kennington, 4th – 22nd June 2019 Interview with director GRAHAM WATTS Graham Watts is directing and producing the world premiere of Sophie Treadwell’s play GARRY. Sophie Treadwell wrote more plays than Shakespeare. Her play Machinal is looked upon as one of the great plays of the 20th century. “Everybody’s done it, from Broadway to the Almeida”, says Watts, “her other plays are there, they’re just ignored.” Like a man on a mission, Watts is determined to raise the profile of brilliant female writers’ who have been overlooked. Last year he premiered THE UNNATURAL TRAGEDY at The White Bear, 350 years after it was written by Margaret Cavendish. It received five-star reviews and an OFFIE nomination for Best Direction. Yet when he tried to get THE UNNATURAL TRAGEDY published, nobody would do it. It’s a clever restoration comedy, with 14 characters. Watts points out that it’s ideal for “universities, amateur groups could do it, students could study it, so many things you could do with it, but they just won’t publish”. It’s a problem which appears to be endemic. Timberlake Wertenbaker wrote 41 plus, operas, radio plays and screenplay. “You’ll see OUR COUNTRY’S GOOD And if you’re lucky you might see THREE BIRDS, ALIGHTING ON A FIELD”, says Watts. “If you’re telling me that’s not gender discrimination, it’s a bit suspicious, particularly when you’re comparing with productions for male writers.” “We need to enrich the repertoire. If we don’t produce plays written by women then we reduce it by 51% It’s not about a condescending concern for the “Little Ladies.” These are fantastic plays that have been neglected for years. Nobody does them. If I do them it will encourage other people to put them on, otherwise no one knows they exist. They’ll just keep doing the same productions like TOP GIRLS. If someone told you Carol Churchill only wrote TOP GIRLS you’re going to believe it.” Naturally, taking a play which has never been produced before does have challenges of its own. GARRY is a hard-hitting modern play. “It’s very 21st century, it’s the Weisberg situation except with a twist.” Set in 50s New York. Garry, an unemployed man is lured from a bar to a hotel room with the promise of a job. Watts explains: “It’s that prominent rich guy situation. When Garry comes back to the hotel room in the Waldorf, he’s sexually assaulted by the guy with repercussions for him and his new wife Wilma in particular – a reporter turns up looking for a scoop and events build to a shattering conclusion. She’s a small town girl from Oklahoma, believing in the American dream but life’s a bit more complex than that. The big thing she learns is that people are all a little bit different.” “It’s not showing graphic subject matter” says Watts, “it’s not gross, we’re talking 1954 in certain parts of America where homosexuality isn’t accepted, now there’s an attempted rape, and the changing role of women - It’s anti the American dream. The character’s feel chocked, they can’t breathe, they can’t express themselves”. The play is actually about Wilma, she’s on stage from the very first gong, and never leaves the stage for two hours. All four character’s in the play are aged 18 – 22, so Watts’ cast is very young. Two of them have worked with him before. “It has to be a stepping stone for people to move on. They won’t do something like this for the rest of their careers. An American giant of a playwright in a pub in south London … you can never take that away from them.” Phebe Alys is playing the role of Wilma. Phebe was last seen at the White Bear in The Unnatural Tragedy as Amor. She is currently filming Harlots for Sky TV. Also, in The Unnatural Tragedy was Alice Welby. In this production she takes on the part of Peggy, a tough New York prostitute and Garry’s sister. She was also Juliet in Graham Watts’ Romeo & Juliet. “Why not give them a break?” says Watts. “Particularly for Phebe - Wilma is a hell of a challenge, she’s carrying the play. These actors leave drama school with high expectations and then nothing … if people have done a good job before, I stay loyal to them”. Watts doesn’t believe in imposing a style on the play, the script is a gift. “It just comes because it’s the right thing to say, if you listen to the other actor, the response is already in your head” Watts’ explains. “Rather than grammatical sentences she splits it up into thoughts and of course New Yorkers are quick thinkers, quick speakers.” The fact that the play has never had an audience does raise a few difficulties and is disconcerting for Watts’. “I’m never sure whether it’s going to be safe. For example, will an audience understand it? Will they be offended, confused? We might know the play well but there’s no Ouija board in rehearsals for Sophie Treadwell to help us through.” At the same time Watts concedes that “the script always gets the story and language across, so she’s there holding my hand in rehearsals.” Although the Treadwell estate allows no changes to be made to the script, it is possible to slightly rearrange, and cut material, so there are some choices to make. However, Watts is always keen to honour the authors intensions. “I hate productions when you see the director on stage. Ivo Van Hove is like that his work is full of gimmicks, for me its gimmickry. With UNNATURAL TRAGEDY I used a recognised modern Shakespeare approach, keeping it fluid, not out of keeping with the RSC. GARRY is a psychological play, it’s 50s method acting, that’s what I’m driving for, that intensity that Marlon Brando had.” Watts describes himself as one of the ‘one in ten directors’ who are from a working class background’. “To be honest with you, I was ignored, that’s why I went to work abroad. I worked a lot in America. They see me for who I am and what I’ve achieved and here they don’t do that. The White Bear is different, they are so supportive, one hundred percent behind the project.” Artistic Director of White Bear, Michael Kingsbury welcomed the play. “He cares about the plays that are put on and all the new writing he’s putting on” says Watts. Watts also praises the pub, and its atmosphere. “It’s nice to sit here. Really friendly. You don’t have to try and get served, and it’s not a tenner for a drink and a fiver for a programme”. Sophie Treadwell “GARRY deserves to be seen. I want audiences to have a new respect for Sophie Treadwell, she’s not a one act wonder. She’s another female author who wrote great plays being ignored. We can’t let it go on, we’ve got to change the system”. Graham Watts in rehearsal He also praises Sophie Treadwell’s humanitarianism. “She wasn’t religious but she left the Rights to her plays with the Roman Catholic Church (Diocese of Tucson, Arizona) with specific instructions. Her estate was to be used to care for migrant children from Mexico and Latin America who come across the Border, where they are split up from their parents”. After negotiating with the church and Sophie Treadwell’s estate, Royalty payments are based on a percentage of gross box office. “Any rights and any future rights of this particular production will go to helping their kids” says Watts. Whilst Treadwell was sixty-eight when she wrote the play, Watts believes “she knows what she’s doing, at a certain age people suddenly think writers don’t know what you’re doing, the opposite is true. She’s an experienced author, let her speak.” As a director Watts has certain methods which are anecdotal but its not really about making jokes, its sharing and only if relevant to the play. “It sounds like it’s just faffing about and wasting time, it’s not, it relaxes the atmosphere. You’re not saying ‘I want it now’. Trevor Nunn is like that, I’ve worked with Trevor and that’s what he does. He’ll take about football and they’d do the best hour of rehearsal you’ve ever seen. He’s so on the money.” Watts best advice to actors is to forget about the money and think about the play. “If you want to do that play don’t let your agent stop you from doing it. So often actors go away from their passion play to work on … ‘Father Brown’. Too often with young actor’s agents will actively stop them from doing theatre, Hold on, what have you being doing for the last year? Nothing! You could have been here working.” Watts concedes that the route into directing has changed. “When I started from university, I became ASM, watched other directors work, watched lunch-time shows, then did some fringe. That was the pathway, people are denied that now.” His advice would be to “run box office, lighting, costume, don’t get a degree from Cambridge, do basic stage craft. Get your hands dirty.” It’s all about believing in the work you are doing. “GARRY deserves to be seen” says Watts. He’s looking forward to sharing it with an audience. “I want them to have a new respect for Sophie Treadwell, she’s not a one act wonder. She’s another female author who wrote great plays being ignored. We can’t let it go on, we’ve got to change the system”. THIS SHOW HAS ENDED GARRY White Bear Theatre, Kennington 4th – 22nd June 2019 1954. New York. An unemployed man is lured from a bar to the hotel room of a “prominent citizen” with the promise of a job. A sexual assault is attempted which has devastating consequences for newlyweds Wilma and Garry. When a reporter turns up looking for a scoop, events build to a shattering conclusion.