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mask131 · 1 year ago

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The other Olympians: Eris

After Eros, I just HAD to do Eris. Everybody keeps speaking of “Eros and Thanatos”, the pulsion of life and the pulsion of death – but what about Eris and Eros? Hate and love. One causes division, the other unification. One destroys the world, the other creates it. Heck, they are even just one letter away from each other!

“But…” I heard some of you say. “Eris isn’t an Olympian!”. Well yes and no. Sometimes she is, sometimes she isn’t. Let us explore that.

Who is Eris? The word “eris” means “strife” in Greek, and this is exactly what Eris is. She is the goddess of strife and the embodiment of discord (in fact, her Roman name was Discordia). She is the eternal enemy of peace and order, always searching to break harmony and cause troubles everywhere she goes.

Now before going further, I want to insist on something. Eris is not an actual goddess, in the sense we can understand it. Yes Eris is presented as a goddess in Ancient Greek literature and in the various epics forming Greek mythology. However here’s the thing… Eris was not part of Greek religion. Or if she was, she had no temples, no sanctuaries, she received no cult and no worship, nobody prayed or sacrificed to her. Eris only seems to exist in literature and philosophy – she was not an actual religious figure of Ancient Greece, even though she was a key character of Greek mythology.

I) The Hesiodic Eris

The Eris most people are familiar with today is the one I would call the “non-Olympian Eris”. It is the Eris described in Hesiod’s Theogony, as well as in his “Works and Days”.

Hesiod describes Eris as the daughter of Nyx, the embodiment of night and one of the primordial goddesses who manifested at the very beginning of the universe. According to Hesiod, Nyx was a quite negative figure, since all the children she gave birth to were actually the personifications of ills and disasters: beyond Eris, Nyx also gave birth to Thanatos, the god of death, to the Keres, the spirits causing violent and painful deaths on the battlefield, Oizys, the personification of misery, Apate, the embodiment of deceit and treachery, Geras, the god of old age and aging, and many many more… Interestingly, in turn Eris also became the mother of a large brood of personifications, each embodiments of even more evils that plagued and tormented humanity. No father is mentioned for these children – but given Nyx seemingly used her powers as a primordial goddess to have her children on her own, without the participation of any male entity, it is very likely that Eris inherited or used the same abilities. Remember, from our talk of Eros in previous posts, the beginning of the world in Hesiod’s universe was not defined by gender, and the primordial Eros was a creature of cosmic, abstract procreation that went beyond mere sexes.

Hesiod gives us an exact list of the numerous children of Eris. On one side you have “singular” children acting as specific personifications: Ponos (toil, hard work), Lethe (forgetfulness, oblivion), Limos (hunger, starvation), Ate ( mistakes, delusions, folly, recklessness, all things that bring ruin) and Dysnomia (lawlessness, absence of civil order). On the other side, Hesiod lists groups of entities, representing “swarms” of concepts: the Algea (the pains and sufferings), the Hysminai (fights and feuds), the Makhai (battles and conflicts), the Phonoi (murders), the Androktasiai (literaly the man-slaughters), the Neikea (the quarrels), the Pseudo-Logoi (the lies), the Amphilogai (the disputes)… Remember what I said previously, Eris was not an actual religious figure but a literary one – and the same way, all of her children are here mere metaphors and allegories. Hesiod is merely listing here all the effects that strife and discord have within human society. Hesiod adds to this list of children a final son of Eris, Horkos, the god of oaths. Why would “oaths” be a bad thing you ask? Because Horkos is more specifically the deity in charge of punishing oath-breakers, the spirit that all those that make false oaths fear. Hesiod even says that Horkos will make more damage to anyone breaking an oath than all of his siblings – and he later mentions, in his “Works and Days”, that the ERYNIES themselves acted as midwives when Eris gave birth to him.

Hesiod describes Eris as a hateful and harsh being, only concerned with causing slaughters and “evil wars” on Earth (remember the Athena/Ares divide, there was for the Greeks a good way of making war, and a bad way of making war). He mentions that no mortal being loves Eris, but that human still “promote” her – but only due to either compulsions (the natural drive of humanity to fight with each other) or by the “will of immortals” (when the gods purposefully send Eris among mankind). When Hesiod describes the legendary shield of Herakles, he mentions that Eris is depicted upon it among the many terrifying entities meant to frighten his adversary – he adds there that Eris is without pity or mercy, and that her mere sight will break the mind of anyone trying to attack the hero.

However, mind you, despite this very negative portrayal of Eris, in his “Works and Days”, Hesiod allows himself a philosophical or social myth about Eris, where he divides her into two identities, one good and one bad. If you recall my Eros posts, there is yet again a parallel with how there are two Eroses. According to Hesiod two Eris are at work among humans: the one he keeps describing above is the “evil” Eris ; but there is a “kinder” and older Eris, who is the one born of Nyx at the beginning of time, and who is even… likeable! Because this Eris is a positive form of strife, a productive form of discord that isn’t about having people slaughter each other, but prompts each human to excel and outdo each other in talents and arts. Specifically sent by Zeus among humans for this very purpose, the elder Eris will for example make a poor man envy his rich neighbor, prompting him to work even harder to become rich himself – and thus she can turn even the laziest man into a hard worker. This Eris isn’t so much about discord, as about a sort of mutual envy between humans that creates a competitive society, indeed, but one that prompts each human to try their best at becoming better than others.

II) The Homeric Eris

Hesiod mentions that of the two Eris, only the “elder” is the daughter of Nyx. Then, where does the “evil” Eris comes from? Well, Hesiod might have been evoking here another cosmogony… I am of course speaking of Homer’s own works, The Iliad and the Odyssey. For you see, the Homeric tradition and the Hesiodic tradition diverge strongly when it comes to the figure of Eris, and it is in the Homeric cosmogony that Eris is presented as an Olympian goddess.

Homer depicts Eris just as negatively as Hesiod. He describes her as a goddess with “relentless wrath”, as the “lady of sorrow”, as a “destroyer of cities”, and even depicts her during a battlefield scene as working in a triad alongside Ker (the spirit of violent death) and Cydoimos (the personification of confusion). But where he changes the story (or rather where Hesiod changes the story, since it is agreed that the Homeric tradition is older than the Hesiodic one, and reflects a more primitive form of the Greek pantheon), is when it comes to Eris’ parenthood. Homer explicitly presents Eris as working in a duo with Ares, the Olympian god of war, the two being “companions”. But more than companions… Siblings. Homer insists heavily on the fact that Eris is Ares’ sister, and given Ares is in the Homeric tradition the son of Zeus and Hera, it is very clear that Eris is also the daughter of the king and queen of the gods.

No need to tell you that Eris’ strongest presence in the Homeric tradition is within The Iliad, aka the epic describing the greatest mythological conflict of all times, the Trojan War. Eris is there usually paired with another deity: sometimes she forms a duo with Athena, and helps her in her role as a “war goddess” to encourage men to fight by her side ; other times she is alongside her brother Ares, as the spirit of hatred that complements the god of murder and bloodlust. This depicts Eris as a very ambiguous deity, that can serve and help as much the senseless, brutal, “wrong” war of Ares as the “good”, ordered, intelligent and civilized war of Athena. An even more interesting detail however shows that this ambiguity does not actually exist: Ares fought on the side of the Trojans during the war, while Athena fought with the Achaeans. This is a detail Homer himself notes and explains in his poem: Eris purposefully played both sides, and found herself on each line of the battlefront, since all she cared about was spreading bitterness and pain, so as to make the slaughter of the Trojan War even greater. Sometimes she does this to further the gods’ desires and plans: Zeus at one point, wishing for the Achaeans to keep on fighting and not just give up, send Eris among them so that she would bellow a great war-cry, so “terrible and so loud” it made every man who heart it want to battle again. But other times, she disobeys even the orders of the king of the gods out of pure perversion: most notably, when Zeus at one point gave the order to all the gods to stop interfering with the war and remain far away from humans, without causing interferences, Eris is the only goddess that remains upon the earth and among humans – merely because she takes a “great pleasure” in seeing them “battle like wolves”, and wouldn’t miss it for the world.

In short: while it seems from the outside that she is actually more of a neutral power that can serve both sides, good and bad, in truth she is a selfish, neutral psychopath only existing for chaos and destruction, and who only accepts to play by the rules when it furthers her own goals.

One last interesting fact: Homer, in his poems, keeps using another name for Eris, a name that many later mistook as being a different goddesses – however, at least in the Homeric tradition, they are just two identities of a same deity. “Enyo”, that is to say the female spirit and embodiment of war, the female counterpart of Ares. Beyond Homer, Aeschylus, in his tragedy about the Seven against Thebes, describes the Seven as making an oath upon the dreadful trinity of war formed by Ares, Enyo and Phobos – in a similar way, Eris was already described by Homer as part of a trinity involving Ares and Phobos (who also stood for his brother Deimos). The idea of Enyo and Eris being different deities seems to come from quite late sources, such as Quintus Smyrnaeus’ epic “The Fall of Troy”, from the fourth century CE, which did a very clear split between Eris (the deadly strife, which causes the battles by causing an “unbalance in the scales of war”, and then watches and gloat as humans fight) and Enyo (a ghastly and wrathful deity who fights inside the battles, and ends up gore-covered and all bloody and sweaty from her constant massacre of mortal beings). In fact, from the third to the fifth century, it became common to attribute to Enyo a “gore-fetish”, as she was described as delighting in piles of corpses left on the battlefield, or getting drunk on the flow of blood ; as well as the power to drive completely mad whoever she “touched”. Mad with war-lust and battle-fever, of course. But originally, for Homer and other early authors, Enyo and Eris were clearly just one and the same, two names for a same goddess.

What is quite fascinating with Enyo is that, unlike Eris which is purely literary, Enyo has some ground for actually having been a religious figure. Now, this is to be taken with a grain of salt, as the Greeks gave the name “Enyo” to several non-Greek deities of the countries east of Ancient Greece – but we have records of a statue of Enyo appearing in the Athenian temple of Ares, and it seems that the deities honored during the Homolôïa festival (in Thebes and Orchomenos) included Enyo. But beyond those two little facts, we don’t have more information about a potential cult of Enyo, who truly seems to be more of a female counterpart or extension of Ares. A last interesting point with Enyo is the presence of a name: Enyalios. Enyalios is the male form of Enyo, and is the name of a deity associated with her – but how? That is the question. Very, very late commenters of the Iliad (we are talking Byzantine commenters) made Enyalios a minor spirit of war, son of Enyo and possibly fathered by Ares. However, a more careful study of the use of Enyalios reveals that it is not the name of a distinct deity as many like to believe. Homer uses it as an epithet for various characters, but most notably for Ares. Other Ancient Greek authors also used Enyalios as an alternate name for Ares: Aristophanes in his play “Peace” (people claim it is used as two different deities, but I do not read it that way, I do think Aristophanes used the name as a nickname of Ares), for example, and Ares is also called “Enyalios” in the Argonautica. Plutarch did mention the existence of a temple of “Ares Enyalios” too, and the late myth collector Pausanias did mention the habit by Lacedaemonians of chaining up the deity Enyalios to prevent him from leaving the city – a custom identical to the habit of chaining up statues of Ares in Sparta. Overall, when you actually look carefully at things, it is extremely clear that Enyalios is just Ares.

And this confirms the true bond and link between Ares and Enyo: Ares is called by the male version of Enyo’s name, or rather Enyo is named after the female version of Ares’ nickname. This reinforces the idea of her being equivalent to Eris, presented by Homer as the sister-companion of Ares, and this feeds into this topic of the “duo of slaughter gods”. Ares/Enyalios, the male god of war, and Eris/Enyo, the female goddess of discord.

III) The golden apple

“But… What about the golden apple?” I hear you cry. “You talked about the Trojan War, but not about the golden apple!”

It is true that the most famous myth of Eris today is the one centered around the start of the Trojan War. It is the story of how Eris, upon not being invited to the wedding of Peleus and Thetis, despite all of the other gods being there, decided to take her revenge. It is the legend of how Eris threw among the feast of the gods a golden apple with on it written “For the most beautiful”, and how this random gift caused a deep feud between Athena, Hera and Aphrodite who all believed the apple was for them. It is the myth of how to settle the feud, the goddesses demanded the opinion of a Trojan prince by the name of Paris, who gave the apple to Aphrodite, resulting in her rewarding him as a gift with Helen, the most beautiful woman in the world… Who also happened to be the wife of Agamemnon, the Achaean king who promptly declared war upon Troy since their prince had kidnapped his wife – a war where the scorned Hera and Athena supported the enemies of Troy, while Aphrodite defended Paris’ city, leading into the legendary decades-old conflict we know today.

Well, you might be surprised to learn that this story does not come from Homer. Nowhere in the Iliad is a golden apple mentioned, or the involvement of Eris in causing the war. It comes from other sources. It does not mean the story isn’t ancient: on the contrary we have records of very ancient epics, probably created around the same time as The Iliad, who described and explained this legend. “The Cypria” for example is the oldest record we have of the story of the “Judgement of Paris”, caused by Eris’ apple of discord. However these ancient epics were all lost, so all we have are secondary testimonies about them, and much later and modern retellings of the story – such as the “Bibliotheca” of Pseudo-Apollodorus, where this old myth was collected in an abbreviate and concise form, or the fifth-sixth century CE poem the “Rape of Helen”, which like Nonnus Dionysiaca, was an attempt at reconstructing the ancient myths of the now-gone Ancient Greeks. While this is not an exact source and has to be taken with a handful of salt, this poem is quite fascinating because it adds all sorts of details about the situation: including how the decision of not inviting Eris came from both Peleus and Chiron (the latter sent out the invitations), and how, before imagining her devious golden apple plan, the furious, fulminating, jealous Eris conjured up plans ranging from stealing Zeus’ thunderbolt and use it as a weapon against the gods… to freeing the imprisoned Titans so they would overthrow Zeus. (Yes, Disney’s Hades does exist in old – but not ancient – Greek literature, and her name is Eris). There is also the additional detail that the golden apple used by Eris is one of those that the Hesperides grow in their orchard, the same golden apples Herakles had to collect during his labors.

Speaking of Herakles, all the way back to the sixth century BCE, Aesop wrote a fable about Eris. Yes, THIS Aesop of the Fables. And he wrote one with Eris and Herakles – one that also involves an apple, and thus furthers proves that the story of Eris using apple to cause discord was an ancient part of Greek mythology. In Aesop’s fable, Heracles was going through a narrow pass when he saw an apple on the ground before him. He tried to smash it with his club, only for the apple to swell to twice its size. Heracles hit it again and again, but every time he tried to destroy the obstacle, it grew bigger. In the end, the whole pass was blocked by the giant apple (slip a Roald Dahl joke here), and as Heracles stood amazed and confused, Athena appeared by his side and explained the situation: this apple is actually the product of two personifications, Aporia (impasse, puzzlement, lack of passage) and Eris. By trying to fight it, Heracles made it larger and bigger – if he had just left the thing on the ground untouched, and ignored it, it would have stayed its size. In short, the moral is that strife and discord will always be there somewhere, but that it only becomes a true obstacle or something serious if you let violence take over you or decide to enter the fight instead of just passing over it.

This conception of Eris as something “growing in size” is not actually a pure invention of Aesop: it was already present, way back in the Homeric tradition. Indeed, when Homer first introduces Eris in The Iliad, he describes her as such: she always appears first as a “small thing”, as a little force, a miniature goddess, but as chaos and battles and discord grow around her, she too grows, and gains in size and largeness, until in the end she becomes a giantess who feet are on earth while her head is in heaven.

#greek mythology #greek gods #greek goddesses #eris #the other olympians #olympians #enyo #ares

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dailycharacteroption · 2 years ago

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Races Among the Stars 6: Ilthisarian

They say that history repeats itself if the incautious forget it. However, the inhabitants of the planet Arshalin do not have that problem, for the terrors of their history loom over the horizon of their world as a constant reminder.

Whether it was the ilthisarians themselves who built it or some unknown spacefaring people, a great space station of colossal size broke apart and crashed onto their world, leaving massive hunks so large they dwarfed the mountain ranges and cut off entire ecologies, leaving them to evolve separately and leave scholars wondering how life flourishes on the world now.

Either way, whether they are descendants of native life forms or the makers of the station whose fragments now are a part of the landscape, the ilthisarians believe in a philosophy of tradition and caution, approaching new ideas hesitantly, though not shutting their hearts to new and strange ideas entirely.

This focus on caution and contingencies is even reflected in their biology, for ilthisarians resemble large serpentine creatures moving on a powerful tail with a split tip. They sport two strong arms and hands, and thick reptilian scales. They also sport a cluster of smaller snake-like necks and heads surrounding their main, reptilian cranium, giving them the appearance of a brawny, more bestial medusa. Additionally, they sport several redundant internal organs, letting them survive grievous injuries that would fell many other life forms.

Focused as they are on tradition and upon stability, the ilthisarians enjoy a relatively calm existence on their world, steadily progressing and developing their culture along sure paths with only their scientists pushing the envelope at a comparatively sluggish pace compared to the fantastical science of other species. This caution also means they seen no need to expand into a region or conquer it for it’s own sake, instead being primarily resource-driven.

They also seem to act as stewards to another sapient race on their world, the bestial ethesks. Though not much details are given on them, they seem at least partially genetically engineered, though there appear to be populations that exist free, particularly near the south pole of their world, which harbors ruins to ancient reptilian gods long abandoned by the ilthisarians, who are mostly non-religious in the modern era, forgoing brutal bloodthirsty gods for the likes of Abadar and other gods of civilization and protection, when they follow a deity at all.

While their homeworld has many dangers and mysteries, the ilthisarians have little interest in solving them anytime soon, and in fact it is rare to see their kind spacefaring, though they are perfectly capable of doing so, such travellers having a goal in mind or perhaps being oddities among the cautious reptiles.

Strong and intelligent, ilthisarians are quite used to making use of their strength and size, though their stubborn nature makes them somewhat vexing.

Whether it be their claws, their tail, or the many fanged mouths surrounding their core head, these reptilian beings are always armed, though such weapons pale in comparison to modern weapons.

Their redundant vitals also protect them from grievous injury, though obviously this is not perfect. They are also well-inured to poisons due to their marshland home biome.

That same marshy home also means they are well-adapted to moving in water and muck as well.

With their strength and intelligence, martial classes like soldier, vanguard, solarians are common career choices for them, as are technomancers and mechanics (particularly exocortex mechanics that focus on melee weaponry). Their species history of bioengineering also makes them capable biohackers, and plenty of them may embrace the path of the evolutionist or nanocyte if the process can at least be controlled somewhat. Their large size might make operative an odd choice, as does the improvisational nature of the envoy, but they can make up for this by focusing on the more skillful and less stealthy sides of those classes. Though not religious, they also can make capable mystics, as well as precogs or witchwarpers, the former seeking the safest path to the future, while the latter focusing on alternate worlds that are more stable than the present.

That about does it for today, but I hope this glimpse sparks you interest in these mighty serpents!

#starfinder #race #ilthisarian #The Thirteenth Gate

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pankajbmdu · 8 months ago

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European Tour Packages: Unleashing the Wonders of Europe

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arrhakis · 9 months ago

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The Mystical World Of Ion - The Architecture Of Monasteries - Mystical Symbolisms - The Ruins Garden - "Archeon"

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(via The Mystical World Of Ion - The Architecture Of Monasterie… | Flickr)

The Mystical World Of Ion - The Architecture Of Monasteries - Mystical Symbolisms - The Ruins Garden - "Archeon" by Daniel Arrhakis (2024)

With the music : Atom Music Audio - A New Dawn | Epic Emotional Dramatic

youtu.be/Y7khxbyk_IA

The Prophets of Ion have a basic project for their monastery whose architecture reflects both the various religious influences on which it is based and the elements that make up its very particular mystique.

Let's look at some of these concepts, mystical symbolism and architectural representation.

The Abandonment / Spiritual Dialog - The Ruins Garden or "Archeon"

Abandonment represents in the Mystical World of Ion a very human characteristic that does not necessarily be destined to have a negative context.

Abandonment as an act or instance of leaving a person or thing permanently and completely can be the result of a circumstantial, unplanned, tragic moment, with normally restricted limits well defined in time and space.

But it can be the result of a continuous transformation, planned or not, in which abandonment is a given or a necessity resulting from the changes inherent to the cycles of transformation within human societies; in this case with broader temporal dimensions such as the end of certain civilizations, changes in trade routes, the decline of important cities, etc.

Abandonment is a term also often used by mystic and ascetic to signify the first stage of the union of the soul with God by conforming to God's will.

This abandonment of what one thought he knew, of the principles or truths he thought he took for granted, in favor of new knowledge that he acquired in the meantime, in the process of spiritual evolution and self-recognition of himself and the world around him.

Abandonment can also be of two types, oblivion and eradication. If in the first there is not a total loss, as there is only factual memory, in the second there is an act of voluntary and objectified loss, in convictions, rituals and faith in religious values.

When abandoned, most people try to find solace within themselves as part of the healing process which is already the beginning of a spiritual journey.

This Solitary Introspection is a way for your mind to ease your emotional pain before it becomes traumatizing. It's a sign to get over the breakup, build self-esteem, and regain control of your life.

The feeling of abandonment can also be the result of a painful separation, in space or time, a serious illness or the loss of love. The emotion and feeling your experience after being abandoned, help you reconnect with your true self and soul.

But abandonment can be an option as a means of removing a painful situation or avoiding facing a problem that would bring discomfort, but in most cases it will not be easy to forget or eradicate as there will always be an unresolved situation that will end up disturbing our soul.

In the Mystical World of Ion Abandonment is first and foremost an opportunity for self-reflection and self-introspection, an interrogation and a search for answers.

Basically, a first stage for spiritual growth or as the famous cote "I Only Know That I Know Nothing" - Socrates", a realization that what we know and take for granted until a given moment may not be true after all.

A restless spirit seeks, is not satisfied and desires to know more about itself and others and therefore about the World, which is why Abandonment can be a first stage of a spiritual journey. Basically, a stripping away of preconceived ideas and previous experiences in order to embrace new concepts and accept a subsequent experience that we were previously unaware of.

In the Mystical World of Ion, this abandonment is materialized by an unfinished area, by the ruins of an ancient temple, by an open space where one can see the sky and the stars.

Basically, for a space that allows us to contemplate but at the same time question, as if space and time combined in this place to form an enigma.

We call this space "Archeon" and it was often an ancient sacred place of ancient ruins. The "Archeon" is then the introspective place, where candidate guardians begin their spiritual journey but also the place of crossing between the lines of time and space. A lonely intersection where paths and life options are decided but where those who went before us are also honored.

But more than anything, it is a space full of potential, because abandoned as it is, it allows us to recreate or rehabilitate it just as we would if our new life were in the same circumstances.

Abandonment is thus seen in the Mystical World of Ion as a necessary stripping to begin an inner transformation and accept new ideas, new ways of thinking and above all the search for ourselves as spiritual and universal beings - The first step or the beginning of a spiritual journey.

Therefore, The Ruins garden is the place par excellence within the monastery complex for initiation into the spiritual world but also for moments of contemplation and introspection.

The Ruins garden is thus a place of retreat but also of ambivalent crossing, between time and space, between the past and the present, between History and Legend, between nature and the creative artistic nature of man, between earth and sky, between the lonely darkness of the night and the supportive light of the stars in the sky.

Due to these dualities, the Ruins Garden of the Monastery is also a place of communication between the Spiritual World and the Earthly World, making it one of the most important spiritual portals in the monastery complex.

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O Mundo Místico de Íon - A Arquitetura dos Mosteiros - Simbolismos Místicos - O Jardim das Ruínas - "Archeon"

Os Profetas de Íon têm um projeto básico para o seu mosteiro cuja arquitetura reflete tanto as diversas influências religiosas em que se baseia como os elementos que compõem a sua mística muito particular.

Vejamos alguns desses conceitos, simbolismo místico e representação arquitetónica.

O Abandono/Diálogo Espiritual – O Jardim das Ruínas ou “Archeon”

O abandono representa no Mundo Místico de Íon uma característica muito humana que não está necessariamente destinada a ter um contexto negativo.

O abandono como ato ou instância de abandono permanente e completo de uma pessoa ou coisa pode ser resultado de um momento circunstancial, não planejado, trágico, com limites normalmente restritos e bem definidos no tempo e no espaço.

Mas pode ser o resultado de uma transformação contínua, planeada ou não, em que o abandono é um dado adquirido ou uma necessidade resultante das mudanças inerentes aos ciclos de transformação das sociedades humanas; neste caso com dimensões temporais mais amplas como o fim de certas civilizações, mudanças nas rotas comerciais, o declínio de cidades importantes, etc.

Abandono é um termo também frequentemente usado por místicos e ascetas para significar o primeiro estágio da união da alma com Deus, conformando-se à vontade de Deus.

Este abandono daquilo que se pensava saber, dos princípios ou verdades que julgava ter como garantidos, em favor de novos conhecimentos que entretanto adquiriu, no processo de evolução espiritual e de autorreconhecimento de si mesmo e do mundo que o rodeia. .

O abandono também pode ser de dois tipos: esquecimento e erradicação. Se no primeiro não há perda total, pois só não existe memória factual, no segundo há um ato de perda voluntária e objetivada, de convicções, de rituais e de fé em valores religiosos.

Quando abandonadas, a maioria das pessoas tenta encontrar consolo dentro de si como parte do processo de cura que já é o início de uma jornada espiritual.

Esta introspeção solitária é uma forma da mente aliviar sua dor emocional antes que ela se torne traumatizante. É um sinal para superar o rompimento, aumentar a autoestima e recuperar o controle da vida.

O sentimento de abandono também pode ser resultado de uma separação dolorosa, no espaço ou no tempo, de uma doença grave ou da perda de um amor. A emoção e o sentimento que você vivencia após ser abandonado ajudam você a se reconectar com o seu verdadeiro eu e a sua alma.

Mas o abandono pode ser também uma opção como meio de afastar uma situação dolorosa ou evitar enfrentar um problema que traria desconforto; mas na maioria dos casos não será fácil esquecer ou erradicar, pois sempre haverá uma situação não resolvida que acabará por perturbar a nossa alma.

No Mundo Místico de Íon, o Abandono é antes de tudo uma oportunidade de autorreflexão e autointrospecção, um interrogatório pessoal e uma busca por respostas.

Basicamente, uma primeira etapa para o crescimento espiritual ou como diz a famosa frase “Só sei que não sei nada” – Sócrates”, uma constatação de que aquilo que sabemos e tomamos como certo até um determinado momento pode não ser verdade, afinal.

Um espírito inquieto procura, não se satisfaz e deseja saber mais sobre si mesmo e sobre os outros e, portanto, sobre o Mundo, por isso o Abandono pode ser uma primeira etapa de uma jornada espiritual. Basicamente, um despojamento de ideias pré-concebidas e experiências anteriores para abraçar novos conceitos e aceitar uma experiência subsequente que antes desconhecíamos.

No Mundo Místico de Íon, esse abandono é materializado por uma área inacabada, pelas ruínas de um antigo templo, por um espaço aberto onde se avistam o céu e as estrelas.

No fundo, por um espaço que nos permita contemplar mas ao mesmo tempo questionar, como se o espaço e o tempo se combinassem neste lugar para formar um enigma.

Chamamos este espaço de “Archeon” e muitas vezes era um antigo local sagrado de ruínas antigas. O “Archeon” é então o lugar introspetivo, onde os candidatos a guardiões iniciam a sua jornada espiritual, mas também o lugar de passagem entre as linhas do tempo e do espaço.

Uma encruzilhada solitária onde se decidem caminhos e opções de vida mas onde também são homenageados aqueles que nos precederam.

Mas, mais do que tudo, é um espaço cheio de potencialidades, porque abandonado como está, permite-nos recriá-lo ou reabilitá-lo tal como faríamos se a nossa nova vida estivesse nas mesmas circunstâncias.

O abandono é assim visto no Mundo Místico de Íon como um despojamento necessário para iniciar uma transformação interior e aceitar novas ideias, novas formas de pensar e sobretudo a busca de nós mesmos como seres espirituais e universais - O primeiro passo ou o início de uma vida ou jornada espiritual.

Portanto, o jardim das Ruínas é o local por excelência dentro do complexo monástico para iniciação ao mundo espiritual mas também para momentos de contemplação e introspeção.

O jardim das Ruínas é assim um local de retiro mas também de cruzamento ambivalente, entre o tempo e o espaço, entre o passado e o presente, entre a História e a Lenda, entre a natureza e a natureza artística criativa do homem, entre a terra e o céu, entre a solitária escuridão da noite e a luz solidária das estrelas no céu.

Devido a estas dualidades, o Jardim das Ruínas do Mosteiro é também um local de comunicação entre o Mundo Espiritual e o Mundo Terrestre, tornando-se um dos mais importantes portais espirituais do complexo monástico.

#flickr

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thxnews · 1 year ago

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Cancun Beaches: Unveiling History, Culture, and Beauty

Ladies and gentlemen, as we embark on this literary voyage to the Mexican jewel of Cancun, it is essential to shed preconceived notions and allow the tapestry of Cancun to reveal its true depth and diversity. Beyond the sun-soaked shores that have enamored travelers for generations, Cancun beckons with a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered.

Temple of the Warriors, Chichen Itza, Maya Ruins, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. Photo by Jim G. Flickr.

Unveiling History and Culture

Cancun, often adorned with postcard-perfect beaches, is also a canvas adorned with a rich tapestry of history and culture. A journey through time awaits those willing to explore the awe-inspiring Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza, a testament to the brilliance of ancient civilizations. As you dive beneath the waves, a mesmerizing world emerges - the Cancun Underwater Museum, a fusion of art and marine life, stands as a testament to human creativity beneath the waves. Immersion in Local Culture In the heart of Cancun, a traditional temazcal ceremony unfolds, connecting you with the indigenous traditions that have shaped this region. An interactive encounter with playful dolphins at the Interactive Aquarium Cancun can create cherished memories. For those seeking a drier adventure, a tranquil glass-bottom boat tour of the Cancun reef offers a window to the underwater world without getting wet. And let's not forget the vibrant markets, Mercado 28 and Plaza La Isla, where you can discover the perfect memento of your journey.

Green Sea Turtles in Akumal, Cancun, Mexico. Photo by Andresvilla. Wikimedia.

Embracing Nature's Bounty

For the nature enthusiasts among us, Cancun reveals itself as a paradise within paradise. Nestled on the Yucatán Peninsula, Cancun unveils a stunning natural backdrop, adorned with alluring beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush jungle landscapes. Here, diverse wildlife thrives, from colorful parrots to curious iguanas and graceful sea turtles. As you traverse this verdant landscape, you'll also find the opportunity to explore the area's captivating history through the nearby Mayan ruins.

Roseate Spoonbill. Photo by Andy Morffew. Flickr.

A Haven for Birdwatchers

For the aficionados of avian wonders, Cancun is a sanctuary where over 500 bird species, some exclusive to this region, bless the land with their vibrant presence. Amidst diverse habitats, from mangrove forests to sandy beaches and wetland marshes, ornithologists discover treasures like the roseate spoonbill, white-cheeked pintail, rose-throated becard, black-necked stilt, rainbow lorikeet, and Zapata wren - a paradise for birdwatchers.

Senor Frog is a popular bar in Cancun. Photo by David Stanley. Flickr.

A Tropical Paradise for Relaxation

Cancun's allure extends to those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The city's reputation as a tropical paradise is well-deserved, boasting a multitude of luxury resorts catering to varied interests. Whether one fancies languishing poolside, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or dancing the night away in Cancun's renowned nightclubs, the city leaves no desires unfulfilled. Conveniently located just a brief flight from the United States, Cancun accommodates both quick getaways and extended vacations, ensuring a tailor-made experience for each visitor. Vibrant Nightlife The nights in Cancun, vibrant with mariachi melodies and salsa rhythms, are a testament to Mexico's exuberance. Moreover, some of the country's finest nightclubs, such as Coco Bongo, LaSanta, LaBarre, and Dady’o, feature world-class DJs and vibrant live performances, ensuring satisfaction for every taste. For those who prefer a more subdued evening, Chapultepec Cerveceria beckons with an extensive craft beer selection, in addition to an outdoor patio perfect for people-watching.

Sailing Catamarans: A Serene Adventure

Cancun sailing catamarans, stable and spacious, offer an idyllic opportunity to savor the region's sights and sounds. Departing from the marina, these vessels take you on a sun-kissed journey, where a captain and crew attend to every detail, allowing you to simply savor every moment.

JW Marriott Cancun. Photo by Curtis Palmer. Flickr.

Diverse Accommodation Choices

Cancun offers a smorgasbord of accommodations to cater to every traveler's preferences. Whether one seeks opulence, relaxation, or budget-friendly options, Cancun provides a spectrum of choices. The Ritz-Carlton Cancun and JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa grace the classical Hotel Zone strip with their opulent offerings. In the peaceful Puerto Juarez neighborhood, the Grand Fiesta Americana Coral Beach Cancun provides beachfront tranquility. For the more budget-conscious traveler, Oasis Palm Beach, boasting easy access to the main Cancun beaches, is a good alternative. Located on Cancun's northern tip, it delivers affordability without compromising the beauty and convenience of this captivating destination.

The beautiful beach in Cancun, Mexico. Photo by Paul Mannix. Flickr.

Best Times to Visit Cancun

When deciding on the best time to visit Cancun, factors like weather and crowd density should influence your choice. From December to April, with its warm temperatures and reduced humidity, Cancun experiences its peak season, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, booking accommodations and flights in advance is advisable due to the heightened popularity during this period. Alternatively, the off-season from May to November, marked by hotter and more humid weather, promises a quieter experience with fewer tourists and opportunities for significant savings on accommodations and activities.

A Multifaceted Paradise Awaits

In essence, Cancun's allure transcends its stunning beaches. This city, with its rich history, breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and diverse activities, caters to a myriad of interests. As you plot your course for Cancun, be sure to weave some of these extraordinary experiences into your itinerary to extract the most from your tropical sojourn. As we conclude our journey into the multifaceted Cancun, let us recall the words of John Steinbeck, who once remarked, "We do not take a trip, a trip takes us." In Cancun, the voyage takes us on an odyssey of discovery, relaxation, and jubilation, leaving us forever touched by its magic. Until we meet again, may your travels be adorned with wonder and your days bathed in sunshine.

Conclusion

And so, as we draw the curtain on our exploration of Cancun, that sun-soaked jewel of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, we find ourselves with a sense of wonder and amazement. Cancun, a place often synonymous with pristine beaches and azure waters, reveals itself as a multi-faceted gem, each facet reflecting the splendor of its history, the bounty of its nature, and the vivacity of its culture. From the remnants of the ancient Maya civilization to the vibrant colors of exotic birds, Cancun's historical and natural tapestry is a treasure trove for the curious traveler. But Cancun also knows how to unwind, offering a sanctuary for relaxation and recreation that's second to none. The nights in Cancun, enlivened by the melodies of mariachi and the rhythms of salsa, are a celebration of life itself, a living testament to Mexico's exuberance. And when the day begins anew, the tranquil waters beckon and the boats set sail, inviting us to explore the secrets of the deep. Cancun is a place where time seems to slow, where the world's cares are set adrift, and where the heart finds solace. As I bid you adieu from this paradise in the Caribbean, I leave you with the words of a great traveler, John Steinbeck, who once said, "We do not take a trip, a trip takes us." In Cancun, the trip takes us on a journey of discovery, relaxation, and joy, leaving us forever touched by its magic. Until we meet once more, may your travels abound with wonder, and may sunshine grace your days. Sources: THX News, Lonely Planet & US News Travel. Read the full article

#BesttimetovisitCancun #BirdwatchinginCancun #Cancunaccommodations #Cancunbeaches #Cancunnightlife #CancunUnderwaterMuseum #Cancun'shistoryandculture #InteractiveAquariumCancun #MayanruinsChichenItza #SailingcatamaransCancun

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yashvitours · 1 year ago

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Karnataka Tour Packages: Exploring Hampi’s Timeless Heritage and Natural Splendor

Nestled along the banks of the Tungabhadra River in Karnataka, Hampi stands as a testament to the grandeur of a bygone era. With its captivating ruins, awe-inspiring temples, and a landscape adorned with unique boulders, this UNESCO World Heritage Site extends an invitation to travelers to delve into a world steeped in history, culture, and natural splendor. If your curiosity about Hampi has been piqued and you’re eager to experience it before the year draws to a close, consider booking one of our exclusive “Karnataka Tour Packages from Ahmedabad“. However, before you do, let us take you on a comprehensive exploration of this ancient city, where we’ll unveil its historical significance, showcase its must-visit landmarks, and present an array of enriching activities that render it a destination unlike any other.

Historical Significance:

Hampi holds a pivotal place in Indian history as the capital of the illustrious Vijayanagara Empire. Flourishing in the 14th century, this empire was renowned for its opulence, military might, and vibrant cultural milieu. The city itself was a living canvas of architectural brilliance, adorned with majestic temples, palatial structures, bustling markets, and public edifices, all intricately carved with awe-inspiring detail.

Notably, Hampi’s cultural landscape was a melting pot of diverse influences, attracting scholars, artists, and traders from across the globe. The city served as a testament to religious tolerance and harmony, housing Hindu temples, Jain monuments, and Islamic structures in close proximity.

However, the Battle of Talikota in 1565 marked a turning point in Hampi’s history. The victorious Deccan Sultanates ransacked the city, leaving behind ruins that stand as poignant echoes of its once-thriving civilization.

Recognizing its historical and architectural significance, Hampi attained UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1986. Today, its archaeological remnants continue to be a subject of extensive study and exploration, offering invaluable insights into urban planning, engineering feats, and cultural practices of the Vijayanagara Empire.

In the present day, Hampi has evolved into a cherished tourist destination, drawing enthusiasts of history, archaeology, and travelers eager to witness the grandeur that once defined this ancient city. The legacy of Hampi endures through folklore, art, and traditions, resonating in contemporary Indian culture.

Places you Must Visit:

1.Virupaksha Temple:

Begin your journey at this sacred site dedicated to Lord Shiva. Its soaring gopuram and ornate pillars offer a glimpse into the Vijayanagara style of architecture. Don’t forget to seek blessings at the temple’s sanctum.

2.Vittala Temple Complex:

Step into a world of architectural marvels with the renowned Stone Chariot as its centerpiece. The musical pillars, the Raya Gopuram, and the intricately carved halls are a testament to the empire’s cultural richness.

3.Achyutaraya Temple:

Perched atop a hillock, this temple offers not only spiritual solace but also stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The temple’s unique architecture and serene ambiance create a serene environment for reflection.

4.Lotus Mahal:

A harmonious blend of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles, the Lotus Mahal is an enchanting pavilion. Its lotus-shaped arches and finely detailed carvings make it a masterpiece of design.

5.Elephant Stables:

These domed structures, once the residence of royal elephants, exude a regal aura. The architectural finesse and historical significance make this site a must-see.

6.Hemakuta Hill Temples:

Wander through a cluster of small, exquisitely carved temples atop Hemakuta Hill. Beyond the architectural beauty, this vantage point offers breathtaking views of the Hampi ruins and the Virupaksha Temple.

Things to do when in Hampi:

1.Sunrise at Matanga Hill:

Embark on a scenic trek up Matanga Hill for an unforgettable sunrise experience. As the sun bathes the landscape in golden hues, witness the ethereal beauty of Hampi and the Virupaksha Temple.

2.Coracle Ride on Tungabhadra River:

Drift along the gentle currents of the Tungabhadra River in a traditional coracle boat. This unique experience provides a different perspective of the riverside ruins and the surrounding boulder-strewn landscape.

3.Explore the Underground Shiva Temple:

Also known as the Badavilinga Temple, this site houses an imposing lingam, symbolizing Lord Shiva. It’s considered one of the largest lingams in India, and its spiritual significance adds to the allure.

4.Visit the Hampi Bazaar and Virupaksha Bazaar:

Immerse yourself in the vibrant markets that once buzzed with commerce. Here, you can browse an array of traditional handicrafts, savor local cuisine, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

5.Bouldering and Rock Climbing:

With its unique landscape of massive boulders, Hampi is a paradise for rock climbers and boulderers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, the challenges and rewards of scaling these natural formations are boundless.

Conclusion:

Hampi is more than just a destination; it’s a living testament to the remarkable legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire. Every stone and carving speaks of an era of cultural opulence, architectural brilliance, and spiritual devotion. From witnessing awe-inspiring temples to experiencing captivating sunrises and engaging in adventurous pursuits, every moment in Hampi is a journey through time, heritage, and natural splendor. So, pack your bags and embark on an immersive exploration of this enchanting city, where history breathes and nature dazzles. Hampi awaits, ready to unveil its treasures to the curious traveler.

If the allure of Hampi has captivated your imagination, why not embark on a comprehensive journey through Karnataka? We offer specially curated “Karnataka tour packages from Ahmedabad” that not only include an unforgettable visit to Hampi but also introduce you to the diverse and enchanting facets of this vibrant state.

With our expertly designed itineraries, you’ll experience the best of Karnataka, from historical marvels to natural wonders, all while enjoying the comfort and convenience of carefully planned tours.

Article Source : https://www.yashvitours.com/karnataka-tour-packages-exploring-hampis-timeless-heritage-and-natural-splendor/

#KarnatakaTour #HampiHeritage #HampiTour #tourandtravelsagency #yashvitours

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rhine-gold-archive · 3 years ago

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Question! - It seems like a popular theory that Kaeya is somehow royalty? I was wondering, if that's the case, then tf is the abyss-sibling thinking, trying to hack some fountain in the chasm instead of using their 'last hope'? The royal theory seems off. Surely, the abyss-sibling wouldn't forget/not know about their actual prince living in Mond? His last name says smth about 'stealing and then becoming king' - that implies he is just a plain citizen before he does something. Idk 🥴 help???

asdfghj ok, hold on anon, you seem to be making a lot of jumbled assumptions here, let’s unpack them before I answer. First of all, you seem to be conflating “Kaeya is royalty” with “Kaeya is Khaenri’ah’s last hope”, which are two completely different things. Kaeya being a prince is an unproven fandom theory, but Kaeya being called “last hope of Khaenri’ah” is a canon text, it’s from his character story. Are you arguing that like, devs are lying to you in actual in-game descriptions? :D

“Surely, the abyss-sibling wouldn't forget/not know about their actual prince living in Mond?” Why not?? clearly, there are many different factions of Khaenri'ah survivors - the abyss order, the Black Serpent Knights, who do not obey the abyss, but protect the hilichurls, Dainsleif, and then there is Kaeya’s dad who seem to smuggle Kaeya to Dawn Winery in complete secret, without any of the other factions knowing. Kaeya’s mere existence contradicts what abyss sibling and Dainsleif know, it doesn’t even matter if he’s a prince. Dain was part of the Abyss Order and knows most of their secrets, and he’s adamant that he’s the ONLY survivor of Khaenri'ah who was not turned into a monster. He says that he was not transformed by the curse because of mysterious “it” thing he has, which is hinted, but not explained. But even this “it” doesn’t protect him completely - he wasn’t transformed, but he’s still under effects of the curse - he’s immortal and he can’t age, and he lives in suffering.

But Kaeya is not only not transformed into a monster, but he also can age normally, he grew up at the same rate as Diluc. We don’t know if he’s completely free from the curse, but he’s obviously able to live a normal human life, this is why he’s so special. And yeah, it wouldn’t make sense for abyss to be fucking with the fountains if they knew that there’s a seemingly totally cured Khaenri’ahn existing already, so obviously, they don’t know that “the last hope of Khaenri'ah” is drinking shots in the Mondstadt tavern. Again, it doesn’t even matter if Kaeya is from Eclipse dynasty or not, the mere fact of his existence would change everything, why do you think Hoyo keeps namedropping him in every Dain’s quest, but never lets them meet. He would be a gamechanger for the both sides.

Another assumption you seem to be making is that abyss sibling belongs to Khaenri'ah when you say “abyss-sibling wouldn't forget/not know about *their* actual prince”. The Traveler siblings are not Khaenri'ahns, if they were, Dain wouldn’t call himself the only survivor who was not transformed, he obviously knows abyss sibling exists. also, does it not seems off to you that the Traveler says that they and abyss sibling came to this world 500 years ago, saw the destruction of Khaenri'ah, tried to leave and were stopped by the Sustainer of Heavenly Principles? How could this be if the siblings were indeed from Khaenri'ah? And would the Traveler not know already know what Khaenri'ah is and why it fell? And like, know who Dainsleif is? How can the siblings be from Khaenri'ah and only enter Teyvat at the moment of Khaenri'ah's destruction at the same time?

One theory that I personally agree with is that the traveler siblings are not from Khaenri'ah, but from the more ancient civilization that fell long time ago when the Second Throne came, and Khaenri'ah was built on the ruins of this civilization. We know that Enkanomyia was part of world-wide ancient civilization before the fall and also that there was even more ancient civilization of the Seelies, so both are valid options. The theory is that the Travelers left at the destruction of their much more ancient home and traveled for so long, they don’t even recognize their home when they return to Teyvat. That would explain the inteyvat flowers in Lumine’s hair even if she’s not abyss sibling - they only grow in Khaenri'ah, but if Lumine and Aether are from civilization that was in the same place as Khaenri'ah many hundreds years ago, it would make sense why she has the flowers, but doesn’t know what Khaenri'ah is. In this case, when abyss sibling talks about “homeland” they don’t mean exactly Khaenri'ah, but the place where Khaenri'ah was built on.

Another thing that supports it is that hilichurls have different tribe markings, and some of them clearly reference Khaenri'ah sigil, but many others don’t. So it’s very possible that Khaenri'ah is not the first nation to be transformed into monsters by this curse, that the hilichurls contain remnants of several different civilizations, one of which was the Traveler’s destroyed ancient home.

as for why Kaeya is theorized to be Khaenri'ah‘s prince - it’s a popular theory, so I’m not going to go into detailed explanations, I’m sure you can easily find them, but why I personally believe it - Alberich is the reference to the dwarven king from Nibelungen saga + sword from heaven explaining “the stealing” you seem to be confused about+ Kaeya’s C1 called “Excellent blood” + his voiceline “Haha, then according to that logic, I at the very least am some royal progeny of a last reigning dynasty too, right?” + he’s absolutely covered head to toe in “Khaenri'ah stars” which are confirmed in the Chasm to be from the banner of the Khaenri’ah royal house. It’s all not very subtle when you put the pieces together, tbh.

#khaenri'ah #rhine talks #kaeya #genshin impact #tbh i don't really care if he's actually royalty?#i'd love him the same if he's a common hillichurl but the royalty thing is hinted way too much #sorry for the long answer but you come to my inbox #and you ask me to explain why my fav is the most special boy #rhine meta #kaeya alberich

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voidsentprinces · 3 years ago

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Every bit of Shadowbringers is the Scions it corresponds with.

Amh Araeng Prt 1 is very Alisaie. Mirroring her decision in A Realm Reborn, Alisaie wanders off to the outskirts of civilization. Choosing to observe the powers of the world and figure out a way to stop coming tragedies. We’re introduced to the threat and aggressively fight against it but in mirror the loss of Ga Bu and Louisoix. Alisaie loses someone dear to her by Tempering. Louisoix became a Primal and Ga Bu was tempered by Titan. (Though honestly I wish Alisaie would stop losing people dear to her cause after Requiem for Heroes it feels like the story likes to kick her while she’s down at this point)

Kholusia Prt 1 is very Alphinaud. There is a semblance civilization, a rule of law in the area, there is even a function in which the society works. Mirroring Alphinaud remaining well within spitting distance and very much in the middle of the comings and goings. He uses his diplomatic maturity, which once was made for personal gain with clever wit and scheme. He has learned from the Crystal Brave betrayal, corruption of Ishgards, the result of those who choose might means right and what it results in from his time in Ala Mhigo, Hingashi, and Doma respectively. Applying himself to better comes to grips with the peoples plight. Upon seeing how Eulmore treats those chosen but then thrown away and then coming face to face with Vauthry. Rather than turning a blind eye and just being, “That’s just how it is.” as he was with the Monetarists and Refugees of Ul’dah. He pushes back against the system, damn the consequences, leaving an easily position to effect the politics of Eulmore and even gets a bullseye placed on the back of his head.

Lakeland is very much the Crystal Exarch’s Domain. It is the place of mystery, where life heavily clings on and every time we venture out to it. We come into conflict with either Eulmore or the Sineaters, Vauthry is controlling. It is in Lakeland, we fight through the Holminster Switch. Come face to face with our first Lightwarden and see where there was once furtile farm land, peace, and people. Now chaos reigns and an apocalyptic wave of disaster has struck. Mirror the world, G’raha had woken up to after the Eighth Umbral Calamity. This is where our foot hold is. Where we first bring night back to the First and his plan for saving the Source is put in motion. There is also a sense of myth about the place, Bismarck, a fae being in this shard slumbers in the Lake aptly named the Source. And it is only by bringing together to allies we made that we allowed to travel to the Tempest when he is spirited away. Just as G’raha gathered allies and people to himself to build the Crystarium.

Il Mheg is Urianger’s realm and reflects the game, he has agreed to play with the Warrior of Light at the behest of the Exarch. It is full of beings, who make deals out of innocent furvor at the determent of all who are around them. Pixies trick travels and fellow fae a like. The Nou Mou live to serve mortal kind just as Urianger serves the realm as a whole, no matter what light history might cast him in. And the Amaro dream of comrades lost, wishing to feel the comfort the adventurers and merchants they once wandered with. Grieving in their own way just as Urianger did after Moenbryda’s passing. Il Mheg is the land of faeries, it is steeped in myth and legend just as Urianger always had his nose in a book. Titania lays at the center of the realm. Once the pinnacle of the fae, forever corrupted by the Lightwarden’s energy. A horrific mirror of what should happen is G’raha’s plan should fail and the paragon of heroism, his friend: The Warrior of Light. Could also become a monster wearing the skin of a kingly figure should his mask slip. Yet when we enter his abode in the middle of Il Mheg, the Waking Sands/Rising Stones music plays. Reminding us of home and the Scions, he calls family and he welcomes us as he ever did, cryptically.

“Unto a hero weary of heroes, a heroes wends [their] way...”

Rak’tika is Y’shtola of course. She has turned away from her light magics of conjury to the dark magics of thaumaturge. The great boughs rise up and block out the sun light of the Great Wood. Reflecting the living style of her mentor: Master Matoya. A person who prefers their solitude, away from the dealings of the world, but with great knowledge to progress the plot forward. Thancred and Y’shtola get into an argument on how each other has changed. The two of them stood side by side after the Bloody Banquet and were both flung into Aetherstream by her Flow spell. While Y’shtola adapted to her blindness and halfened life force. Thancred had to push against the constrains of no longer having access to his aether and briefly losing sight in one eye. His last moments were the thought of protecting Minfilia. Only to wake up in Dravania and find out that Minfilia is no more. Y’shtola rejects Master Matoya and Thancred’s choice of solitude. Making friends with the Night’s Blessed. Even though, she knows she might have to leave them behind all too soon. She becomes a pinnacle of the Night’s Blessed community. While Thancred wanders hither and tither unfocused with Ryne at his side. Slipping easily into her role as a Scion, she researches the clues left behind by the Ronka Empire and makes allies with a civilization who has also closed themselves off from the world. Y’shtola is the first one to recognize the faults in G’raha’s plan and is immediately suspicious of the Exarch’s intentions. We see Y’shtola never truly changed however as when it comes time to get the item that will save the world and protect her friends. She readily uses Flow once more. Damn the consequences. Her sacrifice for the greater good is, as always, her charge which she never hesitates to grant. She even bonds with Runar seeing him as a little brother despite his obvious want for something more, just as she has a sister back in Gridania with whom she has a friendly relationship with. Just as Y’shtola’s connection to Matoya opened up the path to Azys Lla. Her run in with Emet-Selch opens up the path to learn of the Ancients and Amaurot and the true nature of Hydaelyn and Zodiark.

Amh Araeng Prt 2 is Thancred. Its tedious, its nearly empty, full of the smallest hopes. Each challenge is made to be tougher than it should be and despite us being able to compliment Thancred when finding a Voebrite coin. He shrugs it off as he is wont to do at this point. We get Ryne’s inner turmoil deepening. Thancred comes face to face with another individual wallowing in their own grief for those he loss and suddenly after coming face-to-face with Ran’jit again. Thancred throws away his misgivings and brings Ryne into the fold as shoe horned and bad written as possible. So lets just skip this area and never talk of it ever again okay? Cause the story never really does save for the Fatebreaker Eden section

Kholusia Prt 2 is Ardbert’s story or what it once was. We gather our group together and besiege Eulmore only for the villain to escape our grasps. But we triumph in liberating Eulmore from Vauthry’s tyranny for a moment. Alphinaud gets his heroic speech, Alisaie gets to combat the threats of the Lightwardens, Y’shtola and Urianger work together to make a massive Talos, Thancred and Ryne keeping tabs on Vauthry and Mt. Gulg. We meet face to face with G’raha. For all intents and purposes our Cylva. A person with a schism coming to a head. We come together as a team for the first time since coming to the First and each shows their worth in their connections to the realm. Mirroring Ardbert’s journey, we are faced with multiple seemingly insurmontible odds and come out on top. Vauthry’s Sineater Guard fall, he himself becomes the last one. The night returns to the First. And. We. Fail. We fail due to the machinations of Ascians just as Ardbert’s group did. The Warrior of Light is brought low by the combined aetheric energies of all Lightwardens. G’raha’s plan fails when Emet-Selch appears and leaves us for dead. Sure the enemy was vanquished, Vauthry and Ran’jit for us, Loghrif and Mitron for Ardbert’s group, but the First still falls to a Flood of Light as the eternal day returns and we are left on the cusp of despair. For all our triumphs. For all the schemes. For all the fighting. We fail. And just as Ardbert learns to protect his world with the aid of the Word of the Mother. The Warrior of Light only survives due to the aid of Ryne. An Oracle of Light who has come into her own and not died on the battlefield. We wander the Crystarium afterwards listening to the tales of the people and what they think of the Exarch. Then immediately find our courage to plunge into the depths. Ardbert giving us the strength to move forward, that he didn’t have when he met Elidibus. No more desperation. Just courage in the face of oblivion.

The Tempest is Emet-Selch. We are bridged there by the mythical Bismarck and find a dwindling but prospering Sahagin alternative. Living and getting by the ruins of those who stood before. The one part of the world far, far, far way from the light of the First. From the people and things, he used to care for. We find he made a city out of nostalgia and even the ghosts become almost too real. He is at the depths of his grief in a world, he cannot forget and will not forsake. It is here, the one clinging to the past the most falls to those who look to the future they yet have. He covets the Exarch’s use of rift travel because he knows if he can harness it, he has a chance to go back and save EVERYONE! But, he can’t and he won’t. He can no longer go home and knowing Elidibus’s memory and personality has been slipping since he left Zodiark’s breast. He asks us:

“Remember us...remember that we once lived.”

The Crystal Tower is Elidibus. It is the shining beacon of hope, he wished to become as Emissary. From the day, he chose to become the heart of Zodiark. To every motion to move for or against his breathren. The Allaghan Empire’s greatest achievement. But ruled by an Emperor whose death dropped him into Nihilism. Conquest was nothing but ashes in the mouth of Xande and he wish to consume the Source in Void. Elidibus wishes the return of Zodiark. For it is his duty, there is no solace in memories he can no longer recall. A being frozen in time just as Amon had the Crystal Tower’s previous inhabitence. Telling us repeatedly that no matter what our Echo shows us of his past. It will not avail us to his present. So he takes on the image of the Warrior of Light, playing pretend at the role of the hero having possessed Ardbert’s body before. He speeds up the Heroes Journey. Has us actively fight against our own memories and in the end, his own brother reappears amidst the clash to grant the last Unsundered Peace in his fall. G’raha sealing away his essence in the Crystal Tower to become part of the beacon of hope and light. Though perhaps in his final moments, his true duty was that he was waiting for someone to return to him. Someone he looked up to in his younger years. A shadow in his memories he has clung to and taken into being the example off in their absence.

“The rains have ceased, and we have been graced with another beautiful day. But you are not here to see it.”

#{ words from beyond }

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kyogre-blue · 3 years ago

Text

Ruin classification, part 2 (lol)

Continuing from yesterday’s discussion of the mysterious architecture style that appears in the Golden Apple Archipelago, I found a few more places. The current list:

Former Ha’ar Islands

Thousand Winds Temple

Nameless Island (of Wind and Time)

Cape Oath

Windrise

Dragonspine (Sal Vindagnyr)

near Ridge Watch

around Sal Terrae

Yaoguang Shoal

Guyun

Shrines of Depth

I’ll tl;dr my thoughts on this spread: Basically, there are two options here. One is that these places were built by different groups and they all simply learned this style from some original ancient civilization. We currently won’t have enough info to tell anything about this “proto-civilization,” so that would be the end of it.

The other option is there was some civilization that spanned the entire eastern coastline of Mond and Liyue. Here is trying to explain them one by one, as a kind of narrative:

Starting at Mond’s north-east coast, Thousand Wind Temple was built to pray for a respite from the cold, and Sal Vindagnyr’s lore mentions that it was founded by those seeking refuge from “snow and strife.” This is tangentially supported via the Sacrificial series being the only other mention of Imunlaukr.

Going down south via the coast, you reach Windrise and then Cape Oath. Cape Oath is possibly connected to Pilos Peak, and I am assuming the Archipelago has the remains from that, when Venti yeeted it. I can’t imagine what they were doing over there, but it’s bound to be a big deal.

Onward, you hit Sal Vindagnyr. Perhaps you can consider them the core civilization, which would tie into the Shrines of Depth that closed up after it fell.

Ridge Watch, Sal Terrae, and then Yaoguang Shoal would then be the immediately surrounding areas west and southward of Sal Vindagnyr (future Dragonspine).

And then Guyun is the south-most aspect of all this, though... and extremely puzzling one.

Moving on to the boring rows of screenshots as proof of how bored I was. Let’s start by reviewing the quirks of this style.

Fancy archway, note the three-pointed “mora” symbol in the center of the knot:

Bottom of pillars:

Pillars inside pillars:

Rocks walls have texture:

“Stained glass” wall decor:

Ugly tiles:

OK, so let’s move on to the very puzzling gameplay function of this style, Shrines of Depth.

Top and bottom pillars are present, window design very similar to the wall decor.

But the lore for Shrine keys:

These Shrines of Depths sealed themselves off when the civilization that built them was lost. Keys lost deep within domains are able to break the seals. Or perhaps that, for a moment, these keys help the seals to forget all that they have lost.

This is very hmm because Morax let this “civilization” build on top of Guyun, which was only created when he sealed up a bunch of enemy gods. And it’s not like those archways washed up on Guyun. They are very clearly part of the landscape.

On the other hand, the same stuff is present in Thousand Winds Temple, and also the nearby Wind and Time ruins. These temples are described in the Sacrificial weapon set, which says they were built while the war between Decarabian and Andrius was going on. But this set otherwise talks about the founding families of New Mond, so it should have been too long before Decarabian’s fall.....?

The other location discussed before is Cape Oath, which is connected to the now defunct Pilos Peak. This is presumably what Venti yeeted out to the Archipelago...

Other locations:

Windrise! Same bottom of the pillars, and there is another nearby structure with the same columns.

Before you ask, this is the only area next to a statue of the Seven to be like this.

Dragonspine (or rather Sal Vindagnyr):

It’s all over the place, really. They even have lanterns in the same style, which I haven’t seen anywhere else.

However, worth noting is that the Mural Room, and the Mural Room alone, uses styling more similar to the Domains and World Boss arenas. Here is both the three point symbol in the knot and the four point symbol of the domains:

Near Ridge Watch:

And then, this one was very strange, around Sal Terrae:

Now, I’m not too sure whether Havria’s actual location would count?

Havria herself is associated instead with these chalices:

And the one-time domain from Zhongli’s ch1 had a completely different design style (more Liyue-leaning, I would say).

This same style also appears on the shore nearby, on the side of Dragonspine:

(There’s a whole bunch of pillars and arches, I’m just too lazy to add even more images.)

Now, this adventurer fellow, Wenze, has some interesting dialogue:

Wenze: Hello, are you also an adventurer searching for the Abandoned City?

Wenze: Oh, you haven't heard? Somewhere beneath these ruins lies an ancient abandoned city.

Wenze: Rumors of such a place have circulated for many generations at the Adventurers' Guild, but nobody has found it yet.

Wenze: These ruins were once a city, too. But it was probably abandoned long before even the Archon War.

Wenze: It is said that beneath those two trees are buried the bodies of the last king of the ancient city and his enemy, who was also his true love...

Wenze: They perished together, but their burial separates them for eternity.

Wenze: The two trees that grew above the ruins once everything had turned to dust stand, just like them, face to face but separated...

I can never figure out which two trees he means? None of the trees there are particularly impressive or obviously paired together??

However, this dialogue makes it pretty clear those ruins can’t be the same civilization that built Thousand Winds Temple or on Guyun, since those definitely do not predate the Archon War.

Unless.... Mihoyo are reusing the distinctive architectural style....

They wouldn’t... right? Right??

#genshin impact #genshin lore

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secret-engima · 4 years ago

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....I lied. If you’re still doing the title thing - if I go down gonna burn with the sun

I thought there was a few more title asks still lurking in here for me to answer. *cracks knuckles* RAMBLE TIME.

-Star Wars AU. Star Wars FFXV sorta-x-over AU where the Astrals decide that Aera and Ardyn deserve a chance at happiness, just not on Eos, and therefore go YEET. The Force, finding these two wayward and powerful souls is like- Sure okay and boom. Ardyn and Aera are reborn in a galaxy far, far away.

-Purely not coincidentally, far away, on different worlds and in different star systems, one Satine Kryze and one Obi-Wan Kenobi take their first breaths.

-Yes I’m serious.

-This would be- SUCH a chaotic fixit AU, both because Aera loves peace but she is NO pacifist and not about to let an entire Culture DIE just because some so called New Mandalorians cannot see the dangers of burying their own past. Two because- well.

-Ardyn has already BEEN a Chosen One and an Accursed, a Hero and a Villain. He has walked the path to salvation and damnation both and seen the worst sides of himself and humanity, and for all they look different, every species in the galaxy isn’t far different from humanity in those regards.

-Obi-Wan Kenobi grows up in the Jedi Temple and he is a Troublesome Child. Too quiet and too reckless by turns, a smile that could melt butter and a tongue that can strip flesh from the backs of whatever bully goes after him this time. The Jedi ... worry. He is Dark, they whisper, was born with shreds of Darkness in his soul. He is manipulative, they worry, he has a temper, they gossip.

-Ardyn hears them all and inside a part of him screams. Because of course he is Dark, they did not have their souls swallowed by a plague for others’ sake, were not consumed with madness until dying (being freed) at the hands of a nephew two thousand years removed. As for manipulation ... he doesn’t mean to. It’s just ... he’s so much OLDER than the other children mentally, older even than any Jedi there (even YODA), he can’t help it that he thinks rings around people sometimes, or that he is so in tune with the Force (with a galaxy-spanning magic that burns beneath his skin like a hundred newborn suns that he keeps buried so the Jedi will not sense it so clearly, will not know how strong and old he really is inside) that he can practically read minds and knows what to say to get the best outcome. He has a temper. Who doesn’t? You try being reborn after a lifetime of AGONY and see how patient you are with petty morons and small minded bullies.

-He says none of those things, and when his time grows near to be sent away without a Master, he does not fight it.

-He looks at the shadow of Qui Gon Jinn in the doorway and something in the Force ... sings. Sad and soft. It speaks of heartache and betrayal and a fear of being hurt again. Ardyn can almost FEEL the two paths branching away under his feet, one with Qui Gon in it, and one without, and he does not know which one will bring him less pain.

-Ardyn does not try to impress anyone in the sparring ring, but after he is done, he slips away. He finds Jinn in the garden, trying to meditate, and settles down across from him without invitation.

-Qui Gon opens his eyes in annoyance. He knows that the Council wants him to take a Padawan, and that this one is almost at the age of being moved to the Corps. He expects the boy to beg to become a Padawan, or to try to impress him somehow.

-Instead the boy just smiles, thin and sharp and knowing in a way that makes Qui Gon feel ... exposed. Like every thought and wound in his heart is on display for this child, “The Council wants you to take a Padawan. That’s why they keep making you watch us.” It’s a statement, not a question.

-Qui Gon raises an eyebrow, “And you think I should take you?”

-The boy shrugs, but his blue eyes are still sharp as knives behind his friendly mien and Qui Gon doesn’t like the feeling crawling up his spine, “That’s your choice to make and yours alone. There’s nothing I can say to change your mind one way or the other.”

-“Then why are you here?” He asks suspiciously.

-“Because you’re lonely, and it makes the Force feel sad.” The answer is so blunt, so sure of itself. Qui Gon feels his stomach twist, and old anger makes him snappish without meaning to be (he’s heard of this boy as well, he’s heard that he’s got a manipulative streak and a tendency to twist his Force empathy to his own ends, he’s heard many things).

-(Qui Gon forgets that it is not a good idea, to base judgement on rumors) “I am not, and if I was, I would not need your company to ease it.”

-Obi-Wan Kenobi, Initiate of the Jedi Temple Ardyn Lucis Caelum, Sage and Healer King and Accursed, tilts his head thoughtfully, then nods and stands up, “Then I will take my leave. Take care of yourself, Master Jinn.”

-Initiate Kenobi Ardyn the Accursed and Healer King walks away, and a breath later the Living Force twists, like the snapping of cables, and Qui Gon gets the fleeting, distinct impression that he has failed some kind of very important test.

-Ardyn is assigned to the AgraCorps. A life as a farmer for others awaits him.

-The day before he’s to be shipped off, he walks out one of the Temple’s side-entrances and into the underbelly of Coruscant with only the clothes on his back. He doesn’t look back even once. It takes until the next day for anyone (for his friends, if he can call them friends when they are so much YOUNGER and painfully more innocent than him) to miss him. It takes another day for the Jedi to realize Obi-Wan Kenobi is well and truly missing.

-Deep in Coruscant’s seedy side, at the dockyards manned by those who are less than concerned with legality, a boy in ratty (stolen) clothes asks to be taken aboard as a maintenance worker. He calls himself Ardyn Izunia, and there are no Force Sensitives close enough to feel the sunlike fire burning in his blood as he smiles.

-Skip forward several years and Satine Kryze (Aera) is on the run from Death Watch, civil war is on the horizon and her father asks for Jedi protection to keep her safe.

-The bounty hunter who calls himself Adagium finds her first.

-A sword that glitters like blood and cuts through metal like a lightsaber (that hums-hums-hums with magic none but a Force sensitive can see blazing like bloody fire down the ancient blade) finishes off the Death Watch assassin that Satine hadn’t had the chance to shoot yet, and under his hood, Adagium smiles. Satine stills, head tilted as if listening, then she collapses into the teenage bounty hunter’s arms in joyous tears. Adagium- Ardyn- holds her close and cries with her.

- “I finally found you, My Aera,” he breathes and for a moment he lets his magic loose and it burns like the sun through the Force, lancing through the growing shadows in the Force like they’re fragile paper and somewhere far away Sidious feels Doom™ crawl violently up his spine.

-Aka that Fixit AU where Aera is a Mand’alor that DOES want peace for her people but NOT at the cost of burning history to the ground (or being defenseless, she has died to the sword once already she will not go quietly into the night a second time, not if she has to paint the walls in blood to protect her life and the lives of her people), the Jedi are Confused™, and Ardyn is incredibly content to be Aera’s former bounty hunter trophy husband with a tendency to adopt strays (read: Anakin and Shmi who he frees as well as Anakin kthanks, and quite possibly Savage and Feral too tho no one is quite sure how) until the Clone Wars start and Ardyn takes one (1) look at the war and goes: ah. I know this plan. This is a stupid plan. And all of Sidious’s plans go fwoosh.

-Because I’m sorry but there is no way you can convince me that Ardyn wouldn’t EAT SIDIOUS ALIVE in any kind of fight, mental, physical, Force, or tactical. This man is 2k years old. It took Sidious until he was an old sack of bones to get his Empire and that was with GENERATIONS of Sith serving as his foundation, and then he got yote down a reactor shaft by his minion 19-25 years later. Ardyn was able to manipulate an entire Empire into engineering its destruction and fulfill ALL HIS REVENGE GOALS (giving Bahamut a headache, driving the world to darkness and ruin, and ending the line of Lucis Caelum INCLUDING HIMSELF) in like- 30-40 years. While MENTALLY AND PHYSICALLY ILL thanks to the Scourge. Fully healthy and in control of himself and with people (Aera) to protect? Sidious would just be fresh meat.

-Also Ardyn adopts a bunch of the clones, possibly all the clones, on the excuse that since they were raised by Mandalorian trainers they count as Mandalorians and as genetic sons of Jango Fett that makes the Mandalorian CITIZENS by BIRTHRIGHT and the Republic can only watch in confusion as their army gets mass adopted by the Mand’alor’s trophy husband who also exposed their new Chancellor as a Sith. Bail Organa, the new Chancellor, may or may not be sweating quietly at the thought of accidentally gaining the ire of the so called Trophy Husband because he’s smarter than most and knows that Ardyn is Very Very Dangerous.

-Also also Qui Gon doesn’t die somehow because I do really like him and I think he’s a good Jedi, just not a good fit for Ardyn as a master.

#Secret Engima Rambles #Burn With the Sun verse #Ardyn Izunia #obi wan kenobi #obi wan x satine #ardyn x aera #oh no new au

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botwstoriesandsuch · 4 years ago

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im loving the history lesson posts!!! what are you're thoughts on the ruins in Tabantha? based on the memory near the skywatchers and the shrine quests in the region, the stone ruins in tabantha existed about 10,000 years ago and were destroyed or vacated and left to crumble. but the stone structures contrast heavily with the wooden architecture of Rito Village? bUT if i'm remembering correctly the song lyrics go "pride of the rito/pillar to the sky" so the rito stone and tabantha itself has (1)

Ok first off, I AM SO SORRY! I read this ask months ago and I worked on it in my google docs and then I was going pure theory mode and then another person sent in another ask about ruins and I was getting all excited so basically long story short I got so caught up in making a masterlist of all the ruins that I completely forgot about this ask until now... So anon I apologize for the terrible wait but hopefully you’ll still enjoy what I have in planned.

You’ve given me a lot to work with so I’m going to break this up into several posts based on your asks. I’m gonna post them on different days becauseeeee content management, schedules, things.....I’m lazy and also if I posted all my thoughts in one post it would be like a giant book with zero pacing so

[Today] Thoughts on the Ancient Columns and the Ruins of Tabantha

[Some time later idk when I post it I’ll shove the link here] The Effects of the Calamity on the Rito and People of Hyrule

The Relationship between Skywatcher Locations and the Cunning of Calamity Ganon

Buckled in ladies, lads, and gentlefolk? It’s time for a history lesson, Part 1 o’ Trois. So today here is

Ancient Ruins, Architectural Parallels, and the Probable Worship of the Fae

So! Let’s start with the ruins of Tabantha. Specifically, the Ancient Columns.

Anon you’re correct in that these ruins are over 10,000 years old. We can not only gather this from the fact that their condition is the same even 100 years ago, meaning they have to be older than a century (see their crumbled state and similar moss patterns) but also from direct lines from the Creating a Champion (CaC) book itself.

However, I’m inclined to believe (for several reasons that I’m going to get into) that these ruins have nothing to do with the “pillar in the sky” as mentioned in the Rito songs. For one, the pillar of Rito village is of an entirely different architectural style, given that it looks like the natural work of wind erosion. And for another, the existence of the Rito village pillar has to have been much younger, around 100 years old, in order to coincide with the Sheikah Shrine quest, as the Sheikah platform thingy has to correlate with the characteristics of the pillar’s shape. Ergo, ergo, ergo, the “pillar in the sky” isn’t 10,000 years old and has no correlation with the Ancient Columns.

Ok so! Back to the actual ruins themselves and what we can analyze from them.

Circled above is every instance of ruins in the Tabantha region. Although I should specify that I’m talking about the Ancient Hylian ruins, as that is the type that is most notably scattered across this area.

We know that all these ruins are off the same civilization because of their style and material.

[Remember this picture for later^^]

In addition, we can also tell from ruin maps in the CaC book that these ruins are from the same Hylian civilization, as well as the important detail that these ruins were centered around the Goddess.

Citing that other screenshot at the beginning on the Ancient Hylian Culture, these ruins were built around the same time as the Sacred Springs, so I think it’s safe to assume that these ruins had a religious purpose.

But I can take this one step further! Up until now, all this information has been based on interpretations from the botw ruins and official info alone, but if we take into account the real life counterparts/parallels, I can prove the exact purpose to what these ruins are for!

Firstly, these ruins are obviously inspired by architecture in Ancient Greece, and other old Empires (like the Romans and Byzantines) across the Mediterranean.

We also know that the ruins are constructed out of limestone. One, because moss is able to grow on it, so it is unlikely that it is marble. And two, we can see the actual limestone texture when seeing the broken parts of certain columns and walls.

[and kinda quick side note here: but the existence of large limestone rich structures 10,000 years ago gives more credit to the theory that Botw takes place after a large flood, notably the events of Wind Waker. One, because limestone is a material mined near the sea, as seen with the Island of Paros and Naxos for the Ancient Greeks. And Two, this ancient sea was directly mentioned in the description for botw rock salt. And also Three, this explains the weird placement of certain structures, such as the buildings placed on suspended and isolated rocky plateaus like the ones I showed earlier by the Skywatchers. So there’s your mini theory which kinda proves that the Tanagar Canyon was probably an ocean trench at one point and it also still proves my connection of the Ancient Hylian ruins being parallels to the Ancient Greeks and all that because...ocean. Greece, peninsula, hundreds of islands, lots of quarries in Hyrule by the sea. Akkala is by the sea, there’s quarries, also the islands with mining equipment like Tingle Island. You get it by now right?]

Anyway. Greeks, Romans, polytheistic gods, temples for sacrifices, limestone, yadayadayada. Safe to assume that these Hylian ruins were of a civilization centered around a temple of some sort worshiping a powerful being, or beings, such Hylia. Hurray! Theory seems done.

BUT!

I can take it

A step FURTHER!!!

You see, I was originally gonna leave this post at that. The Ancient Columns are of an Ancient Hylian civilization 10,000 years ago that worshiped some higher powers. “Great!” I think to myself. “Time to get all my screenshots so that my ADHD followers wont die immediately”

But but but! As I was spending an hour or so getting said screenshots, I took this picture right here and came across a revelation so bright you could have placed a light bulb over my head...

A pretty enough capture, got a nice aerial view of the ruins, the suspended island thing in the middle of the path... nice view of Tanagar Canyon and the Ancient Columns, the sunset is all pretty and—Oh hey! The Great Fairy Fountain is there. Heh, that’s nice. You know it’s kinda weird that it’s just plopped right in the middle of all these Ancient ruin and temp—

BAadaBing, badaBoom, ladies, lads, and gentlefolk! I’m here to tell ya that these giant fae ladies were once worshiped by 10,000 year old Hylian civilizations. And not just this fairy mind you, but all four of them.

First piece of evidence? The proximity of 10,000 year old structures to every Great Fairy. Mind you, these are the most rare type of ruin in the game. 90% of the ruins are of settlements destroyed 100 years ago by the Calamity, and then the other 10% is still divide up between the Ancient Sheikah and Zonai. So I find it quite interesting that almost every case these special ruined civilizations are near a Great Fairy. [Uh, spoilers for all the Great Fairy locations btw]

First, of course, you got the Great Fairy in Tabantha.

Then you got the one in Akkala, by the Torrin Wetlands (again, the highlights in yellow are of the canonical 10,000 year old Hylian ruins)

The Lanayru Promenade isn’t even up for debate at this point....I mean it was the parade ground for the ceremony up to the Spring of Wisdom. How much more “Ancient Hylian” can you get then that?

The only kinda iffy one is the Great Fairy in the Gerudo desert, but even THEN this fairy is by two out of the three only instances of 10,000 year old ruins in the entire desert, the third instance being the Zonai labyrinth.

But, sure. Correlation might not equal causation. But I think the picture becomes all the more clear when you take a look at the timeline of events!

Note that no one in Hyrule really knows what the fairies are all about. Sure, you got that one researched in Tabantha that knew about one of them, and some of the elders in Kakariko had a sort of understanding that a fairy was their neighbor. However, their stance was that of wariness and caution, and they very much did not worship or give offerings to them. Dorian, for example explicitly shows suspicion towards the fairy, and thinks they might be dangerous. (Which, to be fair, is valid if you’ve ever read ANYTHING about the fae)

My point is, people don’t know what the Great Fairies are, or what their powers, motives, or *anything* really are. Sure, 100 years might have passed, but it would be pretty hard to forget something as eye catching as the fae. The people of Hyrule can remember century old white horses, cook books, treasure locations, ancient songs, and vague legends, but the majority of them don’t know about the Giant (seriously, it’s right in the name) Fairy Fountains?!

That is, of course, under the assumption that the Great Fairies existence was known 100 years ago. But what if it wasn’t?

You might be inclined to assume that the fairies lost their power because the Calamity prevented them from getting offerings 100 years ago, but in truth, there is no evidence whatsoever saying that their lack of power originated at the rise of Calamity.

It’s entirely likely that they haven’t been sitting around for 100 years, but 10,000, or even more. It explains why no one knows anything about them, and also their proximity to the ruins.

A beautiful spring you say? You power is directly correlated to offerings you say?

Gee if only there was some ancient civilization that existed a long time ago, that has ties to old religious practices, temples, and polytheistic, which has parallels to the Ancient Greeks and Romans who build their civilizations centering around certain gods and offerings to said powers, and also if only these said civilizations were nearby to all of the fae oh WAIT!

Even when Link gives his offerings, the results are only that of the Great Fairy Fountain blooming, not an entire spring. Could an entire spring existed long ago, providing for the hundreds or thousands of people who worshiped the fae? Who’s to say that these old 10,000 year old civilizations gave offerings to the fae not only for the magic and all that, but for the vitality and life that they provide? Who’s to say that those earlier relief arts of warriors on chariots were of people with enhanced armour. Fairies that give you magic defense would be quit helpful for a civilization that liked to battle... the possibilities are endless....

TL;DR, the Ancient Columns, along with the other 10,000 year old Hylian structures, were constructed for religious purposes, centering around the Great Fairies, who accepted their offerings in exchange for the vitality of their springs, as well as their enchantments.

So! That’s that. Can you believe this is just me tackling only one aspect of anon’s ask? I realize that the majority of the ask was about the Rito but...oops! That’s why I split it into parts. [When I post the other posts I’ll update the contents at the top to link to them]

A like and reblog is appreciated! I spent too long on this, including an extra week because tumblr deleted my original draft which was much longer... so if you liked it, let me know! It’d be nice to know that my time didn’t completely go to waste, :P Anyhow thanks for reading all this

#the only thing stopping me from outright making a theory channel is my lack of youtube skills #zeltik how do you dO IT #botw #breath of the wild #legend of zelda botw #loz botw #botw theory #botw ruins

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aion-rsa · 3 years ago

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How Alias Anticipated Modern Superhero Storytelling

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J.J. Abrams’ spy drama Alias, which turns 20 this week, was a lot of things: high-octane action-adventure series, twentysomethings relationship drama, occasional National Treasure homage. It was also, surprisingly, a spiritual predecessor to today’s hyper-saturated superhero movie and TV universes: A preternaturally gifted fighter, Sydney Bristow (Jennifer Garner) inhabits comic-book-esque alter egos to infiltrate secret missions related to ancient artifacts and promised immortality, all while ensuring that her nearest and dearest don’t know how many times she’s saved the world—or which side she’s really on.

Like the series’ MacGuffin-generating Nostradamus figure Milo Rambaldi, Alias has proven to be somewhat prophetic itself about what makes for the kinds of superhero stories that land today. With some 20th-anniversary hindsight, let’s look back at what made Sydney’s story so super and what lessons Abrams’ ridiculous(ly fun) series can still impart to the current crop of superhero sagas.

The Secret Identity as Kiss of Death

The highest priority that spies and superheroes share is that they cannot get made—that is, have their identity as a larger-than-life individual linked to their “normal” selves. They must always keep their personal and professional personas separate, lest they risk losing the people who know both sides of them. Alias establishes this difficult lesson in the first half hour of the pilot, when Sydney reveals her true work (she thinks SD-6 is just a covert branch of the CIA) to doctor fiancé Danny, only for him to blab about it later and get bloodily taken out in their bathtub. It’s the first time that SD-6 treats its sweet protégée harshly, making clear the consequences of her actions should she open up to anyone else in her life. And then she defects to the CIA, which will be a death sentence for her if SD-6 ever finds out.

Yet beyond the specter of grisly assassination, what the series really digs into is Syd’s growing ethical dilemma about being a double agent where it concerns the actually good people at SD-6, primarily her longtime partner Dixon (Carl Lumbly) and sweetly awkward Q stand-in Marshall (Kevin Weisman). It would be too easy if the series were only about her getting long-game revenge on SD-6 director Arvin Sloane (Ron Rifkin); the real conflict comes from Sydney lying to Dixon’s face on every stakeout, knowing that he still thinks he’s working for the good guys and she can’t ruin that fantasy for him without potentially turning him into collateral damage.

Similarly, the moments in which Sydney’s two (or three) lives begin to collide have other heartbreaking consequences: While the scene in which her best friend Will (Bradley Cooper cast as the friendzoned buddy, amazing) gets kidnapped and sees Syd saving him, is one of the decade’s best laugh-out-loud moments, it also leads to Will going into the Witness Protection Program. His life ends, in a sense, because Sydney couldn’t keep everything compartmentalized. And we haven’t even gotten to the awful fate that befalls her best friend Francie (Merrin Dungey)…

What Alias Predicted: The beating heart (or arc reactor) of many a superhero story is this tension between selves—which means that the big reveal of a secret identity has to be carefully timed and deliberately presented. It’s as emotional as Peter Parker’s (Tobey Maguire) mask getting ripped away when he saves the subway car of people in Sam Raimi’s Spider-Man 2, as big as Spider-Man: Far From Home doxxing that Peter Parker (Tom Holland) in a commentary on fake news, or as pure and simple as Tony Stark (Robert Downey, Jr.) outing himself as Iron Man in the very first installment of the MCU. You cannot unring that bell, so it better be a memorable moment.

What Superhero Stories Can Still Learn: Rev the secret identity stakes back up! Captain America: Civil War ably took on the game-changing Marvel Comics arc of the same name by having heroes collectively unmask, and movies like Spider-Man: Far From Home are still playing out those ramifications. But mostly we see the dangerous ramifications of heroes doxxing themselves, without really digging into the strain for heroes to constantly have to lie about the things that truly matter to them.

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Campy Disguises and Clever Aliases

If you’ve watched Alias or were even vaguely aware of it, no doubt the first thing you envision is Sydney in black leather and bright red hair, a.k.a. her iconic look from the pilot. Her non-SD-6-sanctioned, under-the-radar disguise (impersonating Will’s sister) displays her ingenuity and establishes the series’ brand: attention-grabbing hair paired with increasingly ridiculous outfits, from chain mail waitress ensembles to rubber dresses. She’s played punks, rich bimbos, alluring businesswomen, escorts, and all manner of female personas upon which her marks would project their assumptions—all of which belied her true strength and cunning.

Even when future episodes riffed on the color wheel with teal, magenta, purple, and good old-fashioned blonde wigs, it was still within a clear spectrum established on that pivotal mission, when she channels a silly girl who cares more about the color of her hair than her safety, only to pin her torturer with the same chair to which she’s bound.

What Alias Predicted: I would hazard a guess that Natasha Romanoff’s first appearance in 2012’s The Avengers—a seemingly helpless redhead tied to a chair, about to be nastily interrogated—was a nod toward Sydney’s triumphant pilot mission. What’s more, despite the first ten years of the MCU leaning toward sleek costumes, later phases (like WandaVision‘s cheeky Halloween callbacks) have realized that they can embrace the bold colors and campy designs of the comic-book source material.

What Superhero Stories Can Still Learn: Better to lean into the bold colors and campy designs of the comic-book source material than to go for more sleek and cool. WandaVision did this, albeit cheekily and using the excuse of Halloween, but the nod toward Scarlet Witch’s original outfit was well received. Because any superhero can look cool in leather, but only the standouts can rock color.

Rambaldi Artifacts, Immortality, and Clones

While replicating the romantic dramas of Felicity, Abrams was also playing with early iterations of his signature “puzzle box” narrative style: The pilot has Sydney chasing after the mysterious Mueller device, which turns out to be… a floating red ball… which bursts into water the moment she tries to remove it. That head-scratcher of a device is only one of many inventions belonging to Milo Rambaldi, a fictional Renaissance-era philosopher whose sketches and writings all pointed toward the ultimate endgame: immortality. You know, just normal spy thriller things.

The series saw Sydney and co. chasing after all manner of Rambaldi MacGuffins, from a clock to a kaleidoscope to a music box to flowers that either demonstrated proof of eternal life (by never wilting) or amped up human aggression. Through all of this, it becomes clear that Sloane helped found SD-6 in order to collect all of Rambaldi’s artifacts and capture immortality for himself—even and especially at the cost of people like his daughter, Sydney’s half-sister Nadia Santos (Mía Maestro).

Before we get more into Rambaldi’s prophecies about the sisters, we can’t forget the parallel fever dream of the series: clones! Or, rather, secret agents genetically modified to look like anyone—which means everyone is a suspect. This constant paranoia quickly got out of hand on the series, but its first reveal was perfect TV drama: There’s not an Alias fan who doesn’t remember “Francie doesn’t like coffee ice cream” and the complete devastation that followed—the knock-down, drag-out fight that destroyed Sydney’s apartment just as badly as Danny’s death, but also Sydney’s heartbreak upon realizing that her best friend was already long dead.

What Alias Predicted: The Infinity Stones themselves are less interesting than in various superheroes’ personal connections to them: Loki (Tom Hiddleston) tempted by the tesseract in Thor: Ragnarok; Star Lord (Chris Pratt) and the Guardians of the Galaxy channeling their friendship to withstand the effects of the Power Stone; Wanda Maximoff’s (Elizabeth Olsen) stages of grief as she copes with trying to keep the memory of Vision (Paul Bettany) alive even without the Mind Stone. In short: grounding the most out-there plotlines in the personal ensures they will always land.

What Superhero Stories Can Still Learn: Ground the most bonkers of plotlines in the personal, and they’ll always land.

The Chosen One and the Passenger

This is when the Rambaldi business started getting less National Treasure levels of charming and more outright weird. Turns out the team wasn’t just recovering a treasure trove of artifacts, but also Rambaldi’s prophetic writings—including the mysterious “Page 47,” which featured a drawing of a woman known as the Chosen One… who bears quite the resemblance to Sydney herself. That would be easy enough to dismiss as a strange doppelgänger coincidence, but then comes the reveal of “Project Christmas”: When Syd discovers that she didn’t just stumble into the spy life on her own, but was actually trained as a sleeper agent from childhood, it only amplifies her fears that she has no true agency over her life.

Further Rambaldi writings center Sydney and Nadia into predestined roles as the Chosen One and the Passenger: supposed foes who are fated to clash, with one dying. Nadia getting injected with “Rambaldi fluid” in order to tap directly into the long-dead man’s consciousness (contained within another artifact known as the Sphere of Life) only earns her some nasty apocalyptic visions. But despite their genuine friendship that comes from bonding over their fucked-up childhoods, Sydney and Nadia are forced into that preordained confrontation when the latter is injected with a compound that reduces her to a mindless killing machine… all while a giant red ball is hovering over a city in Russia, because why not. Even after Nadia dies, and is brought back to life, then dies again, with her ghost haunting Sloane as he finally attains immortality, she remains a presence on the series.

There are certainly echoes to Black Widow and how it handles Natasha and adoptive sister Yelena’s (Florence Pugh) strained reconciliation after the older sister got out of the Red Room while the younger was still caught in its web. Their bickering banter about vests and poses, their differing memories of their false childhood, and their respective feelings of abandonment are what elevated Black Widow’s standalone outing—and made it even more tragic, on multiple levels, that this was the only time we would see the two of them in a movie together.

What Alias Predicted: Sister stories are gold! The Rambaldi storylines would mean nothing if they didn’t hinge on a tragically preordained confrontation, just as the MCU’s Red Room depiction seemed overdone until it was presented within the context of multiple generations’ differing experiences with its bloody legacy.

What Superhero Stories Can Still Learn: More stories about sisters! With Nat dead not long after she and Yelena had just started to bond again, it’s vital that Yelena’s future MCU appearances show her still grappling with the little time they got together.

After all, the best superhero stories are the ones that can feel just as fresh now as they did 20 years ago.

Alias is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video.

The post How Alias Anticipated Modern Superhero Storytelling appeared first on Den of Geek.

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alottanothing · 4 years ago

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Left to Ruin: Chapter Twenty-Two

Summary: Kahmunrah returns from two years away, with new recruits the fight, as well as baleful news from their enemies. The queen consoles her king with a secret she hopes will bring him joy.

Previous Chapters

Word Count: 6088

Warnings: A tad angsty, but mostly lighthearted.

Tag List: @xmxisxforxmaybe, @r-ahh-mi, @hah0106, @rami-malek-trash, @diasimar, @sherlollydramoine, @flipper-kisses, @ivy-miranda-2390, @txmel, @sunkissedmikky, @concentratedsassandcandy, @edteche2

(Let me know if I missed you, or if you would like to be added to the tag list)

A/N: Only 2 more chapters after this one 😬 I know right? I can hardly believe it myself. Also, word of advice, savor this one folks. What’s left isn’t gonna be pretty 🙃. As always, thanks for showing the last chapter love with your likes and comments and such. ❤️❤️ Once again as a disclaimer, I am not an ancient Egyptian expert and google only knows so much. So yeah, I took so historical liberties while writing this to make my life easier, but tried to keep it as “authentic” as possible. As a helpful note Tahut-Mut is the top general of the pharaohs armies, and favors Kah over Ahk. There’s a lot of characters that don’t have major parts in this story but play a significant role. I should have made a glossary before I posted this.

Kahmunrah was away from the capital for eighteen long months, and as promised, new garrisons of fighting men arrived almost weekly from the cities the new Grand Consul visited. Some were learned men—soldiers who were already skilled in the way of battle; others were boys—eager for the chance to learn lessons the pharaoh was never taught. Every new wave of able bodies fought against the ever-present sense of dread looming inside Ahkmenrah’s mind, and before long, a glimmer of hope replaced that baleful feeling war oft kindled.

Even Nouke sang praise of Kahmunrah’s diligence, commending him for sticking to his word. It was a welcomed thing for the pharaoh to, at last, have unity within the whole of his family; no man was or would ever be as lucky as he was—Ahk was sure of it.

To show his gratitude to the fighters, the pharaoh held feast after feast to honor each squadron of recruits who arrived; the celebration curbed the reality ever-so-slightly. With full bellies and a drink in their hand it was easy to forget why it was they were there: to fight, protect, and die for their king.

Tahut-Mut always began those evenings the same: first escorting the new soldiers into the largest of the gardens leading them in a pledge of fealty to the true king of Egypt. Then, the stringent atmosphere melted away as the festivities commenced immediately after as if to quickly douse the flame of apprehension. No one thought of war with the allure of revelry.

As for the pharaoh, he loved every convivial moment he could spare not thinking about how murky Egypt's future was. Meeting people from far away cities he'd visited in his youth captivated his avid soul. Years caught in stagnation—bound by the chains of his station—Ahkmenrah's heart yearned once more to explore the sands of his great empire.

Nevertheless, Ahk found the most joy not listening to tales of distant oasis', but instead in the privacy of those grand gatherings which allowed the king and queen a moment to revisit the passion of the night they became man and wife.

As those months passed without so much as a whisper of war (apart from the weekly reminder of new soldiers, of course) Ahkmenrah found bliss in his life once more. He reveled in the pulsing of life all around him, from the Nile to the shifting sands, to the capricious winds that kept the world spinning. The king was glad for the thrill he found around him and in every breath that filled his lungs.

In those bliss-filled months, his little sister found her happiness too, marrying Satauhotep—who'd claimed the title of Consul of Montu with Kah no longer holding the position.

Seeing Setshepsut wed a good man who loved her, and who she loved in return, fostered the same achy tenderness that swelled in Ahk’s heart the day he married Nouke, a feeling that was almost suffocating, but in the best way.

As a gift, the king and queen had offered to build them a home, but Set insisted home was where her mother and her brother resided, and where her husband would spend most of his time as the pharaoh's Keeper of War. Ahk was only too happy to keep his sister close by and immediately called for the reconstruction of their quarters, promising them a grand suite like his own.

For eighteen months, Egypt and her king knew peace, but peace was a fragile wall that needed only the smallest of shoves to send it toppling into ruin.

Word of Kah’s return arrived three days before he did. The news sparked the pharaoh with delight and anxiety all at once, making sleep almost impossible, especially the night before he was to return.

There were so many stories Ahk longed to share with his brother, ones he looked forward to telling Kah during the meditative walks they took in the gardens—the pharaoh missed those hours of kinship with his big brother. Kahmunrah had missed so much: Setshepsut’s union to Satauhotep, Sekmenrah’s first steps, all the parties…mostly, Ahk couldn’t wait to thank his brother for the time he sacrificed in order to ensure Egypt was protected.

When news reached the palace that the Grand Consul was on his way back to the palace, Ahk was the first to stand and wait at the top of the stairs, listening to the distant sound of drums grow louder as his brother grew closer. Nouke joined him, taking his hand with a soft smile as she placed herself dutifully at his side. Her presence was always the most beguiling thing within Ahk's orbit and for a moment, the thrumming of drums meant nothing.

Tahut-Mut was there too, off to the side and stoic, moving only once Kahmunrah’s chariot came through the gates with a garrison of new men in tow. The general quickly shepherded the fresh recruits all in perfect formation to the training yard, allowing Kahmunrah the chance to properly greet Ahkmenrah and his queen.

The pharaoh forwent formality in favor of an embrace, pulling Kah into his arms with fervor, which his brother returned in a much more reserved manner.

“The gods are good!” Ahk exclaimed. “I am so very pleased to see you home again, Kah.”

He patted his brother’s shoulder in parting before stepping back to Nouke’s side.

“Likewise, brother.” Kahmunrah offered a tight-lipped smirk.

“We are glad you have returned safely,” Nouke said with a genuine tone, prompting a surprised expression to color Kah’s features. “Thank you for what you have done on behalf of my husband and on behalf of Egypt.”

Kahmunrah bowed respectfully, “Of course, my queen. Anything to better the future of this great empire.”

Ahkmenrah could barely contain his smile seeing them exchange civil words, and again, he was reminded of how lucky he was. He took Nouke’s hand in his, kissed it, and motioned for Kahmunrah to walk with them back into the palace.

“I insist you share stories of your adventure, Kahmunrah,” Ahk said, tossing his brother a grand, but slightly envious smile.

True, the pharaoh’s heart yearned for a journey, but he would be content enough for a while just to live vicariously.

“Surely you found time to rest and enjoy the beautiful cities?” Ahk easily recalled the places he’d visited in his youth—how rich and different life was from city to city.

“Of course, brother. I have much I will gladly share.” Kah stopped, and a seriousness settled on his features that caused Ahkmenrah to stop as well. “But I also bring home tidings of an unfriendly nature that require your attention at once.”

“What is it?” the pharaoh asked, a portion of that peaceful barrier beginning to decay.

Kah’s gaze teetered from Ahk to Nouke twice before settling on the pharaoh. “Might I speak to you in the council chamber?”

He looked at the queen again, then back to Ahk.

“Alone?” he added.

Nouke’s grip on her husband’s fingers tightened with a quick “be cautious” squeeze of warning, and Ahkmenrah returned it as silent affirmation he understood.

“Certainly, brother. Allow me to escort my lovely queen back to our chamber, and then Kamuzu, and I will meet you in the council room after.”

The ghost of a frown darkened Kah’s expression, but he quickly hid it, nodding.

“Very well.” He bowed his head to both in farewell before marching off in the direction of the council chamber.

In his peripheral, Ahk could make out the look of scrutiny Nouke cast Kahmunrah as he strode away; he’d learned not to question his wife’s persuasion when it came to his brother. Her uncertainty towards Kah was a part of her, and Ahk loved every part of Nouke, even if he did not quite understand them all.

Instead of nagging, Ahkmenrah rolled his eyes fondly and brought the back of her hand to his lips for another kiss until the hard lines on her face melted into a smile.

Together they walked leisurely through the halls, both enjoying the tranquility, neither foolish enough to spoil it with words. Ahk wished every moment of every day could feel so profound.

When they reached their chamber doors, the pharaoh pulled his queen against him, pelvis to pelvis, with a mischievous smirk curled onto his lips. Nouke’s eyes sparkled catching her husband's simper and matched it, sweeping her tongue out to glaze her lips with a perfect sheen she knew would drive him mad: an act too enticing for him not to taste.

There was very little pressure to his mouth on hers, just a heated weight devoid of rapid movement and tongue as he memorized that feeling until he gasped softly into the kiss. Ahk pressed closer, angling his chin to orchestrate one of the purest, sweetest kisses either of them had ever known. His hands framed her face, and Nouke’s arms wove around him, locking them together.

When they broke away for air, Ahk gingerly brushed the tip of his nose against hers, unwilling to surrender her closeness.

“Rescue me in an hour or so?”

“Rescue you?” Nouke smirked as a manicured brow hoisted into an arch.

“Yes,” Ahk implored, his tone slightly more serious. “If it is bad news my brother brings, I will be in need of rescuing.”

Her smirk took on a softness that matched the glistening compassion swirling in her amber eyes as her looped arms squeezed him tighter.

“Mmm,” she hummed, peering deep into his eyes in a way that spoke oceans of her affection. “I will gladly rescue you, my sweet king. Now and forever.”

Ahkmenrah kissed Nouke again with the desperate need to hold her in his arms a little longer.

When he began to make his way back down the hall with Kamuzu at his side, Ahk spun deftly on his heels and walked backward as he spoke, levity in his tone once more.

“Give Sekmen a hug for me?”

Nouke was lingering in the threshold of their bedchamber when she caught his words and threw him a smile.

“Perhaps I shall send Sekmen to rescue you, that way you may hug him yourself.”

“Perfect,” the pharaoh beamed.

***

When Ahkmenrah entered the council room he was met with a sight that caused him to stop and stare. Kah and Tahut-Mut were hunched over what looked like a map sprawled across the table, exchanging whispers.

Puzzlement swiftly consumed the pharaoh’s features as he stepped closer, having difficulty making out what they were discussing. Ahk did, however, manage to catch the word siege, which was enough to twist nervous knots into his stomach.

“Oh! Brother,” Kah cast him a quick grin and hurriedly rolled up the piece of papyrus the two were so intimately studying before the king had walked in. “Welcome.”

Ahkmenrah stood gauging both men warily, suddenly too aware of the malaise in the room; he felt as though he had wandered in on something he should not have. He could see so in the mild shock on Tahut-Mut’s expression; Kahmunrah’s surprise was harder to read, though.

“What matter were you both discussing just now?” Ahk’s eyes narrowed. “Did I hear something about a siege?”

The pharaoh kept his composure tightly laced despite the onslaught of panic he felt brewing.

Kah was quick to provide an explanation that worked to alleviate some of the tension in the room.

“General Tahut-Mut came to ask my opinion as to where the new recruits should be stationed if a siege should befall the palace.”

“How best to protect the pharaoh, of course,” Tahut added with a bow, that seemed belittling to a degree.

The general hastily took the roll of papyrus inscribed with the map from Kahmunrah and left without another word.

Ahk’s eyes stayed trained on his brother, narrowed intensely until Kah sighed knowing he was about to be lectured.

“You are no longer my Keeper of War—you made sure of that before you left,” Ahk said making sure his tone stayed even. “Why would one of my generals still be seeking your counsel?”

Kah shrugged, seeming disinterested. “That is a matter between you, and your generals, I think. Perhaps they do not work well with the man you put in my previous position.”

The proud indifference with which Kah spoke crept into his entire demeanor. With a simple turn of phrase and callous tone, he was blatantly off-putting to be around, causing Ahk to clench his jaw in frustration. Already the power Kah had gained was starting to taint the man he had become. The smug simper on his closed lips and the way he held himself was a remnant of the man who hungered for the grandest power in all the land.

The notion alone made the pharaoh’s stomach churn; still, he held tight to his resolve, not wanting Kah to see him unravel.

“I will gladly grant you that seat back, should you want it,” Ahk bit out, his anxiety turning to irritation. “I know many good men who would be honored to relieve you of the stresses of your new position.”

Ahkmenrah watched his brother carefully, wanting to see if he would take the bait and lash out as the old Kahmunrah would have. Instead, Kah’s arrogant posture wilted, and he sighed—definitely not an old Kahmunrah reaction.

“It was not my intention to argue, brother.”

“Nor mine,” Ahk said, losing his steam.

“Good.” Kah threw him a pleased smirk and pulled out the chair at the head of the table, motioning for the pharaoh to take his seat. “There is much to discuss.”

Kah took the adjacent seat as Ahk placed himself in his usual chair, his heart beginning to race as reality quickly came to consume him. Life had been so blissful—a perfect illusion Ahk was not yet ready to give up. Dread grew like invasive vines in his gut, twisting and contorting until he felt sick, making his composure difficult to maintain.

“First,” Kah began, looking somewhat guilty. “I must confess that before I left the capital I arranged for men to travel south into enemy territory so that they could report whispers of war directly to me. Doing so made sure I could be back in the capital in a timely fashion.”

Kah paused long enough to take in Ahkmenrah’s reaction. “I know you detest the use of spies, which is why I chose not to share this information with you before now.”

The frown that worked onto Ahkmenrah’s face was one he didn’t want to fight; he wanted his brother to know how unappreciative he was of such dishonest actions. Still, the pharaoh held his tongue to spare an argument, the irksome itch running over his skin told him that there was more to Kah’s reasoning that was more important than a squabble between brothers. Although, Ahk doubted any excuse could negate what had been done.

“And what did your spies tell you?” Ahkmenrah asked cooly.

There was a downward curl to Kahmunrah’s lips that did little to curb the pharaoh’s trepidation, and the longer Kah remained silent, the itch grew worse until it burned out any nuance of the king's previous ire.

“I forgive you for the spies, Kah. Now I demand you tell me what you have learned.”

Kah took in a deep breath, his slow exhale somehow amplifying the tension in the room, and met his brother’s glance—a somberness shimmering in the dark of his eyes.

“It seems, dear brother, the Nehesyw have brokered an alliance with the nations of Mitiumi and Hatti. All three plan to invade.”

In a single moment, the atmosphere in the council chamber was suddenly suffocating. The torches burned bright along the walls but a shadow settled over everything in sight, and Ahkmenrah slouched under the weight of his brother’s news.

It should not have come as a surprise that other nations sought to conquer Egypt. The pharaoh’s empire was a grand and prosperous nation, and as such, a challenge to anyone who thought themselves just as powerful.

“Are your men positive this is what shall come to pass?” Ahkmenrah asked, filling his lungs with a breath in hopes to steady his fraying nerves.

“I’m afraid so, little brother.” Kahmunrah placed a comforting hand on the pharaoh’s shoulder. “It seems our hope of negotiations has fallen through before it even had time to begin.”

The genuine sorrow in his brother's eyes and the ruefulness of Kah’s features lent a thin sense of compassion that was just enough to make Ahk feel like he wasn’t going to be devoured by dread. Even so, a wave of helplessness crashed mercilessly against the pharaoh, eroding that felicitous shell he had been living in.

For the first time in all his years of ruling, Ahkmenrah felt like a failure; what would his father think if he let their glittering empire topple into ruins? A chill shook his body at the notion. Ahk could not let Egypt fall.

“What do we do now?” Ahk asked in a whisper, hoping the soft tone of his voice would mask the panic that was slowly forcing its way out. “Perhaps there is still time to speak with the Nehesyw--”

“The Nehesyw people are savages—blood is the only thing they will ever understand,” Kah recanted sternly.

A furrow twisted onto Ahk’s face, confusion causing his head to shake as he recalled his brother’s previous plans of diplomacy.

“But you said we could negotiate once you had returned—you’ve returned. Let us go speak with them before they attack!”

Kahmunrah let out an irritable sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose as he spoke, “We have missed our chance, brother. They’ve called to arms; now we must do the same. It would only show Egypt’s cowardice if we sought negotiations. We must stand.”

The pharaoh sank deeper in his chair, digging circles of pressure into his temples, trying to find logic. How could diplomacy be cowardly? Diplomacy saved hundreds, even thousands of lives. Was it wisdom with which his brother spoke, or was Ahk speaking to the blood-lusting, power-hungry man Kah used to be? Where did one end and the other begin?

Ahkmenrah couldn’t tell anymore.

If the Nehesyw were truly as savage as his brother made them to be, why had Kahmunrah led the king to believe there was ever a chance to reason in the first place?

Ahk’s head was spinning, and the knots in his stomach were so tight, he feared they would snap. Egypt was on the brink of war, and already it felt as though they were losing battles that had yet to be fought.

As silence crept into the chamber, it drove the looming malaise deeper. Ahk lingered in the bottomless cavern of his own thoughts as the quiet stretched on—vision unfocused, each breath more shallow than the last. It wasn’t until he swam through the flood of his thoughts that Ahk found the energy to speak, his voice weak, and unrecognizable.

“I suppose the next question I should ask is: can our armies fight them?”

Kahmunrah sat back in his chair, his focus drawing inward, rubbing his chin as he considered his answer.

His stalling gesture did not foster much in the way of confidence, but Ahkmenrah did his best to hold onto the shred of optimism that remained.

“The forces we have gathered here at the capital against all three nations? No. The number of men I have acquired that are ready to fight could easily hold this palace—even the city. But they are not enough to fight a war against three peoples.”

Ahkmenrah frowned.

“However,” Kah continued, steepling his fingers. “The well-to-do lords and governors of our great cities are aware of our situation and have promised to send what remains of their fighting men to the capital should Egypt need such defenses. Three nations will be tough, but I am profoundly confident that Egypt will prevail.”

Ahkmenrah could only nod to let his brother know that he understood, his words lost somewhere in the tangled web of his thoughts. He trusted Kahmunrah’s knowledge: he’d trained from his youth to learn how to fight and protect. Still, the pharaoh longed for his father to stand at his side to help him make sense of everything. Even more than that, Ahk wished to ask Merenkahre why he’d taught him only how to swing a blade or throw a spear. Swordplay and war were two vastly different things, and the king felt as though he was treading water that was pulling him under.

Before his thoughts could completely drown him, the pitter-patter of tiny feet stole Ahk’s focus, and he turned to find his two-year-old son toddling his direction with a smile on his face. The pharaoh smiled back and quickly took the boy into his arms, reveling in the serenity the weight of Sekmen in his arms brought.

Nouke followed the little prince, but she lingered in the doorway with an affectionate mask and watchful expression that lent another soothing warmth to deter the king’s anxieties. It was amazing how the simple sight of his favorite people could make even the darkest cloud light once more.

Kahmunrah grinned at his nephew and stood. “Allow me to speak on your behalf at tonight’s council. I will inform them of what we have discussed.”

His glance fell to the boy in Ahk’s arms, then to the queen behind him. “Spend this night with your family, brother. I can think of no better distraction.”

Ahkmenrah stood, shifting Sekmenrah’s weight to one arm so he could extend a grateful hand to his brother. “Thank you, Kah.”

Kahmunrah shook the pharaoh’s hand with a nod and a smile. “Rest assured brother; Egypt has nothing to fear.”

Had Ahk not caught the slight arrogance in his brother’s voice, Kah’s words would have left him feeling more at peace. Something about his tone seemed misplaced, but the pharaoh couldn’t figure out why—it was simply a feeling.

He pondered on it, fighting back the sense of alarm until Nouke hugged herself to his side.

“Did we rescue you in a timely fashion, my love?” Her eyes were sparkling with ardor and her expression prompted a smile to stretch across Ahk’s face, alarm forgotten.

“You did.” He hugged her closer and kissed her temple. “Thank you.”

Silence settled around them, and while the atmosphere still held its ominous aura, with Nouke and Sekmenrah in his arms, it was not so crushing.

“It’s bad, isn’t it?”Nouke asked softly.

Ahkmenrah offered her only a doleful smile as a reply, conformation enough to cause her to hug him a little tighter.

“Let’s do something.” Ahk implored a moment later. He needed out of those halls that had told him all of his life duty would be his only purpose.

Nouke cast him a curious, single-sided smile. “Anything.”

***

The quiet interior of their chamber was drenched in orange and yellow hues as the sun sank into the horizon outside the open balcony. Immediately, Nouke could feel her husband relax beside her, the tense lines of his body melting under the cascading golden light.

She couldn’t help but relish his sight; holding their son, whose head rested upon his father’s shoulder, his sleep heavy lids blinking slowly. A soft smile pulled onto her features; such happiness they brought her. And more was on the way—a secret she’d been saving to tell the man she loved when he was most in need of something to remind him not everything was terrible.

Nouke took Sekmen from Ahk’s arms a moment later, humming the boy deeper to sleep in lulling tones as she tucked him snugly into his crib. Unlike so many other nights, the prince did not fight and drifted off easily, filling the chamber with soft snores.

The queen watched her sleeping son for a long while before her eyes drifted to where Ahkmenrah stood, meditatively removing all the golden barbles that made him a king. With each piece he shed, Nouke saw a little more of his burden dwindle away.

In a few steps, she crossed the room to help him, silently untying the fastenings of his wesekh and every other jeweled trinket he wore. Her fingers traced over his skin delicately, a purposeful intimacy radiating from her touch she hoped would steer away more of the anxiety Kahmunrah had brought home. Nouke felt the weight of his gaze on her, watchful, and praising of every tender gesture.

The last thing she removed was his polished crown, setting it carefully with all the other garments, and swept her fingers through Ahk’s hair until the curls fluffed into place.

His strong hands reached for hers with a feather-light touch that made Nouke’s heart swell, and he brought each of her wrists to his lips, kissing them gently to show his thanks. Ahk’s hands continued as he helped her out of the gilded finery she wore.

Every gentle touch he mimicked with the same finesse and amour, slowly removing her heavy jewelry to place alongside his own. His evocative touch made her heart race and her breathing shutter; every light brush of his fingers was both chaste and inherently sensual: a feat only he could have mastered. And once they stood naked of their duty—wearing the simplest of their garments—Ahk pulled her into a deep kiss that chased away the remaining pang of worry.

Stardust was bursting behind his eyes, making their blue-gray hues sparkle with whimsy as she met them in the dim light of their chamber. There was so much life in her pharaoh’s soul, so much love in his heart it almost didn’t make sense for a singular being to harness so much in a mortal body. Ahkmenrah was truly ethereal, a god-king, and all hers.

The pharaoh called for Medjay and a maidservant to watch their son when he took her hand in his, pulling her towards the door. Nouke didn’t question where it was he wanted to take her, she trusted his sense of adventure too much.

A content smile stayed on his face as he led her through the halls, coaxing a similar expression to paint across her own features. That placid mask only grew more joyous when he pulled them into the beautiful garden of their youth; the lotus blossoms were in full bloom, perfuming the air with their nectary fragrance, and Nouke quickly filled her lungs with their cherished scent.

Ahkmenrah continued past the quietly trickling fountain at the garden's center, over the plush beds of grass and through the thick brush of green that lined the outer walls until they came to their secret passage into the world beyond the burden of duty.

It had been years since either had cause to escape through the hole in the stoney exterior and as the bricks came loose effortlessly, it seemed as though they were meant to leave their worries behind for the evening.

Whatever news Kahmunrah had brought was enough to shake Ahkmenrah to his bones; she knew him too well not to see through all of his masks. And while the ever-present feeling of distrust would always writhe in her gut at the mere mention of her husband's brother, Nouke was going to have to remember to thank Kah one day for giving Ahk an evening to himself when he needed it most.

When their feet kissed the warm sand on the other side of the garden wall, a thousand memories flooded into their minds; memories of their youth together, memories of innocence and freedom. Even the memory of how Ahk had saved her by saving her mother. All of it flashed so vividly in her mind Nouke had to blink away their shine.

So much was written in those ever-changing sands along the Nile that they felt more like home than anywhere else—especially with Ahk’s hand in hers. She knew he could sense it too, finding his expression the same, his face upturned to the setting sun, eyes closed as the breeze tasseled his dark hair.

The sight was enough to make her already full heart burst with affection. Ahkmenrah was never more beautiful then when he was stripped of his golden raiment, the sun making his unblemished skin glow; he was absolutely radiant and Nouke could hardly look away.

His heavy-lidded eyes fluttered open as he turned his head to gaze at her, bottom lip caught between his teeth as he smiled. They walked along the bank of the Nile with Kamuzu several paces behind (as he had when they were children), and it was just as magical then as it had been years before.

The palace was far behind them when they came to a patch of green shore that was their favorite oasis in their youth. The moment they found it, Nouke knew it was the perfect slice of tranquility to share the news she’d been keeping to herself.

With a calculated yank, she pulled Ahk onto the soft earth beside a towering palm and the wind-swept reeds, the look of shock on his wide eyes causing her to laugh.

“I have news to share with you.”

The grin on his lips faltered somewhat as a hint of concern creased his brow.

“What is it, my love?” he murmured, sitting in front of her on folded knees.

He took both of her hands in his lap, his thumb sweeping tenderly back and forth across her skin as though to soothe her from the impending tension. In the twilight glow, Ahk’s eyes looked more green than blue, smoldering as they searched her face for a sign.

“Whatever it is, we will get through it together.” His concern was heartwarming, and it made her smile grow.

Gingerly, Nouke brought his right hand to her lips, kissed each knuckle then pressed his open palm to the, barely-there, swell of her abdomen.

It took the pharaoh a moment to work out exactly what it was she was telling him with the gesture; Nouke watched every expression with a smirk. From confusion to realization, to profound excitement, each one twisted on his features more vividly than the last.

Ahk’s question was in his smile, and Nouke cupped her hand over his as affirmation.

“The gods have blessed us again.”

Ahkmenrah’s mouth fell open as he glanced at her belly. From under the fan of his lashes, Nouke couldn’t tell if the twinkle she caught was a manifestation of whimsy or the welling of joyous tears. Either way, the sight filled her with warmth and love.

When he met her eyes again, his grin grew, and he crawled on his hands and knees to close the space between them with an enthusiastic kiss. Nouke hummed encouragingly and cradled the underside of his jaw with the tips of her fingers, drawing him closer until she was sprawled upon the soft earth, and he was looming over her.

Ahk’s face was a work of art, the sheen of his lips glistening while the rest of his beautiful face held a look of fascination, admiration, with the base of desire. Nouke traced the lines she found there, the natural pout of his lips, the cut edge of his jaw, the light scratch of his stubble tingling across her pads of her fingers.

Every texture under her touch, every gesture she made, and every slow, affectionate blink he cast upon her, Nouke logged to her memory wanting to save it for the years to come. He kissed her again, lazy like the movement of the clouds in the sky, and she memorized it too.

All of his love he poured into that kiss, and she returned it tenfold. With his body against hers, hands in her hair as their lips danced together, Nouke realized Ahk was far greater than a work of art or godly temple; he was the artist—the very architect of her happiness. It was him that painted the sun and the moon into the heavens, him that spilled into her heart colors of unimaginable hues. Ahkmenrah made her feel like she was a masterpiece.

He made love to her as the stars overtook the skies. Every piece of him crashed into her, and every piece of her crashed into him like waves unto the shore. In that shared moment of transcendent euphoria, Nouke swore that must have been how the universe was born.

As they came down from their highs, they chose to linger in the tranquility they found along the Nile, nestled in their oasis with no borders.

Ahk sat with his back against the trunk of a palm tree, Nouke against his chest, taking no moment for granted. His arms were around her, his open palm pressed proudly to her stomach, protecting the child he had put there. An other-worldly kind of peace encompassed her as the gentle rise and fall of her husband’s chest lulled her almost to sleep.

Nouke fought the temptation of slumber, however, not wanting to miss a moment.

“I would leave everything behind if you asked it of me,” Ahk confessed suddenly, his voice low.

The abrupt proclamation, coupled with his wistful bravado, fostered a new wakefulness that caused Nouke to shift in his arms to better study his expression. There was a soulful longing burning dim like embers behind the swirling color of his eyes—his gaze fixated on the distance. It was a mask that made her feel suddenly melancholy, weighing on the corners of her lips.

“I could leave it all to Kah—I doubt he would deny such a burden.” Ahkmenrah’s eyes stayed locked on the horizon as he continued to speak. “You…me…Sekmen. We could disappear. No more talk of war or duty—just us and a world to see…”

It was as though the boy she had grown up with was speaking: longing for a lifetime of endless adventure. Nouke had often considered a nomadic life, Ahk would have so easily fallen into it. But to leave Egypt to Kahmunrah? A changed man or not, Kah would never be the ruler Ahkmenrah was. Those days of childish dreaming had ended for them long ago.

Never-the-less, Nouke offered him a soft smile.

“What an adventure that would be,” she mused, playing into the whim just enough to deter some of the sadness in his features. “After all, you did promise to show me the pyramids, and the waters of the Mediterranean.”

Ahk’s eyes broke from the horizon to smile down at her, “I haven’t forgotten."

His gaze moved back to the horizon and when he sighed, Nouke could almost see the wistfulness billow out with his breath, tangling with the breeze.

“One day soon,” Ahk promised. “When we can afford to turn our backs on duty for more than an evening, I will gladly take you anywhere you wish to go.”

“I will count the days,” Nouke said with a soft smile, nestling back against him.

The abrupt shift in the atmosphere brought into mind a new wave of nostalgia Nouke couldn’t help but to mull over. Everything she held was precious; gifts she never would have imagined herself possessing or be deserving of, especially having come from a life of servitude.

“Sometimes I still feel more like that little servant girl when I roam the palace halls,” Nouke admitted, causing Ahk to sit up straighter with a look of bafflement contorting his features.

“My love, in the eyes of gods and men, you are a queen—my queen.” His hands cupped her face, and the adoration she found in his eyes was enough to chase away the feeling of lowliness forever. “Our son is a prince of Egypt, and in your belly, you carry another prince or princess. You are exactly who you were always meant to be.”

He kissed her again as if to seal his proclamation with an act of love to make it true.

“As are you, my king,” Nouke murmured, emphasizing his grand title so he knew he was exactly where he was supposed to be as well. It would have been foolish and greedy to abandon the roles they played.

Duty beckoned the king and queen back to the palace long after Khonsu’s light turned the waters of the Nile a glittering silver. And as they slowly strode back to the palace, they each wondered what life could have been for them free of the golden shackles they wore.

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