#assertive FMCs

[freakoutjess]

anyone searching for female-lead relationship novels or dominant/assertive fmcs !!!! please read it and all the authors other work TRULY ONE OF THE GREATS

reading apocalypse arrivel by gong xinwen and i remember how they’re truly one of the greatest authors of all time (to me).

following the fl on her journey wanting her to win whatever challenges she faces and ! just the way they write mls truly irreplaceable to me. they just torture them in the right way ! and i want to scream and hug them bc THATS MY PUPPY

ive read all of their work and just ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ all around

[acourtofthought]

For a female that clearly had no issues asserting herself in SF, who stood up to Nesta about not being allowed to tell her what she can and can't do, who told Feyre that she wanted to join at the Hewn City despite Feyre telling her she could stay home, it's really strange how Elain hasn't vocalized to anyone that Az is what she wants.

Eluciens believe Elain is purposely avoiding her draw to Lucien just as Nesta did with Cassian, that she doesn't want to let herself want him so she's throwing herself into trying to make a life for herself. Making friends, finding a purpose in the NC, convincing herself she could be happy with someone else. We believe Elain is hiding from her truth so we're not getting the full story about how happy she truly is. Where her stubbornness over being made, losing her fiance, her insistence that she doesn't want a mate is the driving force which keeps her from reaching out to Lucien even though he's suffering. That's typically the setup for a SJM FMC and many fantasy authors.

In contrast, E/riels believe it's confirmed Elain wants to be with Az, that she's known for quite some time she wants to be with Az but....she hasn't done anything to make that known to the others. There's nothing standing in her way from being with him, no stubbornness at the hand fate dealt her, no anger that her ex fiance rejected her partially because of her relationship to Az (the way we saw with Graysens reaction to Lucien). Elain told Feyre she didn't want a male or mate which E/riels use as proof she doesn't want Lucien. So if her past statements hold true and she had no issues announcing to Feyre that she doesn't want Lucien, why does she seem to have such an issue with saying she does want Az?

Elain fought harder to search for the Trove than she's fought to let anyone know Az means something to her (nobody in the NC thinks he does) though he's supposedly struggling with her bond. Where is her consideration for his feelings when she cares so much for him already? She's so happy and content in the Night Court according to some yet we know Az avoided her for months which indicates she hasn't minded his absence though her feelings for him are "obviously" so deep. I don't know, if I was in love with someone and they chose to stay away from me I'd be hurt, not happily living my life. And if I was aware of my feelings for someone (and not hiding from them as Elucien's believe) and saw them struggling, I would be checking on them, spending time with them. She's happy and content yet Az according to the bonus isn't sleeping well and is full of negative emotions about himself. If you're a fan of e/riel wouldn't you be a little irritated with Elain for living her best life while Az is struggling and she's not shown any interest in reaching out to him when she's said to already care for him and already wants to be with him?

If Elain does have true happiness in the NC it has nothing to do with Az and everything to do with her ability to make the best of any situation. In fact, the only thing Az brought Elain in SF was one charged look after his confirmed absence and then hurt and rejection.

Despite all that, just because Elain found some happiness in the Night Court, it doesn't mean that's where she's going to truly thrive which I think is evident. Sarah laid many hints that Elain's happiness is not the ultimate in what a FMCs happiness can look like. Some people can find bits of happiness wherever they are, they're called optimists which Elain is but the current version of Elain still does not look like the version of Elain we saw at the end of ACOTAR. Sometimes people look for the good no matter what comes their way but those same people can later come to the realization that the happiness they once had can't compare to the happiness they discover elsewhere.

[a-b-riddle]

I wanna put some fillers out there because I’m going to be honest. I don’t hate making reader blurbs but for longer stories, I hate not being able to add more depth to a FMC’s background.

How would you feel if the characters in my stories were in reader POV, but had characters from different ethnicities. I have messaged some readers who are down to proofread material to make sure it’s not tone deaf.

Would you prefer they weren’t in reader POV if that’s the case?

Because here are some of the characters I can’t stop imagining with the boys and some scenarios.

If any of it’s a no, I won’t write it 🫶🏻

Virgin Reader hiring male escort Gaz to be her fake boyfriend.

(Perceived) Bimbo Heiress reader who finds out her POS ex was only with her for her money. She steals John’s cab trying to get the hell away from said EX and runs into John later.

New neighbor reader who declines all of John’s VERY assertive advances. Had abusive ex and is constantly in guard and John is just imagining if the reader would prefer a gold or silver engagement ring.

Single dad Simon who is struggling to be a father after his drug addicted ex left a girl on his doorstep claiming to be his. So he hires a nanny.

A continuation of the arranged marriage x price fic

[starsreminisce]

“I belong to no one. But my heart belongs to you.” Graysen’s face hardened. “I don’t want it.” He would have been better off hitting her, that’s how deep the hurt in her eyes went. And seeing her face crumple …

Rhys vanished, and Azriel was left standing before Elain, who still awaited his kiss. His stomach twisted as he pulled his hand from her hair and stepped back. Forced himself to say, "This was a mistake.” She opened her eyes, hurt and confusion warring there before she whispered, "I’m sorry." “You don't-- Don't apologize,” he managed to say. "Never apologize. It's I who should…” He shook his head, unable to stand the bleakness he'd brought to her expression. "Goodnight.” 

Elain endeavored twice to convince herself that her mating bond held no significance, only to be scorched by the romantic rejection of two different males. Regardless of their varied reasons for turning her down, the outcome was the same – Elain felt the sting of hurt. The reasons behind the rejections became inconsequential when the pain persisted.

SJM has a penchant for starting her FMCs at their lowest, prior to being with their lifelong partners. Surprisingly, Elain's ultimate low point might not be the broken mating bond, but rather another rejection from someone she had anticipated prioritizing love over a mere mating bond.

She mourned her broken engagement for months, to the extent that Lucien still inquired of Feyre if she continued to grieve for him.

In ACOSF, we witness a transformed Elain – confident, assertive, and willing to confront Nesta, involving herself in the Dread Trove discussion, and insisting on attending the Hewn City Solstice despite its cruelty and the unsuitability of black for her.

Elain has evolved considerably over the year, choosing to assert that she doesn't need a mate. Though details about her interactions with Lucien are sparse, subtle cues indicate their continued connection and mutual influence. Elain's lingering wariness and Lucien's discomfort suggest an underlying tension.

I wonder if Lucien's presence triggers Elain's rebellious instincts, compelling her to assert that she doesn't need him, even while maintaining the bond.

Azriel, offering encouragement at the party, exhibited charged glances and physical closeness. Despite her boldness, he took a step back, labeling their interaction a mistake. Elain, a keen observer, calculated the risks but was unprepared for Azriel's rejection, which stung deeply.

Her response to his rejection was to return his gift as she retreated upstairs.

Hopeful for a change of heart, Elain spent over six months anticipating Graysen's reconsideration. She had hoped Azriel's stay that one night was meant for her. She is determined not to repeat the same mistake she made with Graysen in her dealings with Azriel.

Despite skeptics claiming SJM would not address a rejected mating bond, they forget what followed Rhys's mention:

Many mated pairs strive to make it work, convinced that the Cauldron chose them for a reason.

Elain may be reaching a juncture where she needs to give her mating bond a chance, especially considering her looks at Lucien – none betraying hurt.

After all, there is a reason why she has yet to break it.

[ariellewm]

"Coils of the Naga" Part 2 - Calista and Czar Palace Courtyard Scene

Written by Arielle W.M.

Author's Note: This is a written bit I randomly wrote out that happens in Part 2 of Coils of the Naga and in the novel (when I get to writing more of it/plotting). Also decided to get new artwork done of Czar by Shio and have him with my FMC Calista/Shadow Ranger that was also drawn by the same artist.

Check out the audio roleplay series I've written that was produced/voiced by Ycey Narrates. LINK HERE!

Artwork of Calista and Czar done by Shio

“Nah ah ah, vixxxen.” He chuckled, “You’re not getting away from me thisss time." Caught off guard, Calista gasped as Czar had playfully pinned her against the tree. A strong arm above her, his crimson gaze looking down at the trapped ranger. He smirked noticing her composure was betraying her. A subtle blush through her frustration over her own vulnerability.

Calista growled, “Let, let me—"

Her cheeks reddened even more by the end of the naga’s tail as it coiled and snaked to lift the ranger’s chin. It was a gentle assertive touch. Her breathing quickened, heart racing as she was forced to look upon the naga. There was no averting her eyes this time from this alluring, charming prince. “Mmm, I’ve wanted a clossser look into these irressisstable, yet…myssteriousss eye’sss of yoursss.” He leaned in closer, a whispered hiss, “There’sss sssomething you’re keeping from me, vixxxen.”

Check out Part 1 of the series! Click the thumbnail picture to take you to the audio.

Curious to learn more about Czar or Calista? Click the banners to their profiles!

[mermaidsirennikita]

why is it uncommon to find a more assertive/dominant FMC in FANTASY romance that isn’t bdsm or complete kink role reversal? Fantasy romance seems gender conforming than contemporary. I thought this was fantasy so why are the roles so rigid and a FMC who sometimes holds the power is somehow kink/fetish

I went to Reddit for recs and honestly found nothing to my taste

also i dont think ppl realize that a not submissive FMC does mean the mmc is weak, feminine, etc? everything is so binary ahhhh

i’m not even someone who wants to deviate from the norm that much

Hmm, I don't know that I experience the same issue with fantasy romances? Maybe it's a Reddit problem; I find that on Reddit (compared to, say, Instagram) I see a lot more people requesting books featuring actively submissive heroines. That's where Alice Coldbreath gets recommended to me every time I ask for anything though, lol, so I feel like I could be a little skewed in that direction.

And it's fine for people to want that, I just struggle with books in which the heroine is SUPER submissive in her everyday life (her sex life is another thing entirely).

That said, I also don't think I've read a lot of fantasy romances I would categorize as truly kinky or BDSM-related. But my standards may be high, I think of a lot of books as "kink positive" but not About That Life, if you get what I'm saying.

I'll also say—in my experience, Reddit skews very indie, and while there are a billion indie books I love (including books recommended below) I personally find that a lot of Reddit-popular books are kind of like... one-handed reads. Which is fine, totally valid, they just don't have a lot of thought in terms of plot. Or, tbh, sometimes in terms of sex (I don't find their portrayal of kink to be great all the time).

That being said, if you do want to read fantasy romances with assertive, strong heroines that also feature strong heroes, I'd recommend:

The Witch Walker series by Charissa Weaks. A recent favorite of mine, has several couples (I'd say three prominent ones as of now, two m/f and one m/m) but the core couple is m/f. The heroine is strong and stays strong. The hero is also, though I'm rather delighted by how often he hurtles himself into trouble and is like "WHOOPS" until she shows up. Their sex life is really like... mutual. I'd say he's a bit more dominant in bed, but they both show the fuck up.

The Hurricane Wars series by Thea Guanzon. Both the hero and heroine are virgins, they have a very mutually giving sex life (though that doesn't really fully kick into gear until book 2, which is out in December), and she's definitely a very strong character, I'd say.

The Winter King by C.L. Wilson. The hero is definitely more immediately strong and sexually experienced in this book (it's definitely more historical romance-aligned worldwise, and she's a virgin) but the heroine is very powerful and their relationship becomes an equal one. And in bed, once she's on the up and up of it all, there's a lot of mutual give and take.

The Princes of Hell series by Kerri Maniscalco. I love the heroines of this series (there's a trilogy to begin, then a spinoff book). They're both quite different, incredibly strong, and more than a match for their heroes. Plus, I appreciated that you really don't have the same characters or relationships repeated between the two couples. They're super distinct.

[zalrb]

I acc like stories about relationships with uneven power dynamics, I find it interesting when both characters are trying to manipulate each other and power play. My problem is when one characters(most likely the mmc) being an asshole cus his dad is mean or something and the girl is obviously just trying to defend herself and everyone is like omggg banterrr, she got her kick back.

Liek the main character could torture the fmc and then she’ll spit on him and everyone will be like OMG ENEMIES TO LVOERS I LOVE FEMALE Characters GETTING REVENGE AND BEING POWER HUNGRY and I’m like… where tho….

OK but that's an uneven power dynamic that you dislike, which is my point.

I acc like stories about relationships with uneven power dynamics, I find it interesting when both characters are trying to manipulate each other and power play.

You are describing a relationship in which both characters are equally trying to manipulate each other and it's a tit for tat, one day one character might have the power, the next day or week or whatever, the other character does, it's a constant shifting of power. It's not one character asserting their power over the other person and the other person is always on the defensive.

I'm not talking about uneven power dynamics where like one person is the boss, I'm talking about the uneven power dynamics that come in a dynamic like bullying and abuse. We're saying the same thing.

[ejesgistnews]

Nigerian Military Challenges Asari Dokubo to Battlefield Confrontation, Vows to Neutralize Him. The Nigerian military has issued a stern challenge to ex-militants' leader, Asari Dokubo, daring him to come to the battlefield and face the military's strength. This comes after Dokubo's provocative statement, claiming he has the capacity to shoot down a military helicopter that had hovered near his residence. Oyo Lawmaker Reacts As Senate Passes Bill Establishing FMC, Igboora Responding to the former militant leader's bold claim, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated on Thursday that Dokubo’s assertions were "laughable." He dismissed the idea that Dokubo possesses the military capability to confront Nigeria's armed forces, emphasizing that any such confrontation would result in Dokubo's neutralization on the battlefield. "We are professional and operate within the laws of democracy. While his comments are bold, it is clear he lacks the military capacity to match our forces. Should he step onto the battlefield, he will be neutralized," Gen. Buba warned. Appeal Court Overturns Rivers 2024 Budget Passed by Edison-Ehie-Led Lawmakers, Affirms Amaewhule as Authenticate Speaker Dokubo, a former Niger Delta militant, has been a vocal figure on security issues in Nigeria, often making controversial statements. His most recent claim that he could engage military forces heightened tensions. The military further clarified that its primary focus remains on combating terrorists and insurgents across different regions of the country. Major General Buba noted that the Nigerian military has made significant strides in neutralizing terrorist threats, having successfully eliminated over 300 commanders in the past three quarters alone. He assured the public that the military continues to degrade the operational capabilities of terror groups in Nigeria. "Our fight is against terrorists who are wreaking havoc in the northeast, northwest, and other parts of Nigeria. The focus is on eliminating terrorist leaders and diminishing their capacity to fight," Buba said. While addressing Dokubo's claims, the military also emphasized the broader context of national security, pointing out that multiple security agencies are involved in maintaining peace and stability. The military’s latest statements underscore its readiness to maintain control over national security and take action against any group or individual challenging the country’s armed forces.

[starstofillmydream]

I'm so behind on my comments and reblogs I'm so sorry 😅

The tension interspersed in this chapter is unmatched.

I felt so stiff and on edge in Kazi and Magistrate Aro's conversation, Kazi and Neyti's encounter when Kazi picked her up from school, and Kazi, Neyti, and the commanders' interaction back at the house. It momentarily dissipated when Kazi's past was detailed, but it cut right back to the tension immediately. Brilliant!

Having attended the University of Cybersecurity and Analytics on Ceaia, Kazi graduated in the top three percent of her class. Professor recommendations and near-perfect test scores earned her a position at Ceaia’s top-clearance security bureau. There, she worked as a military analyst: data collection, research, analysis, dissemination. She worked with some of the Outer Rim’s best analysts and agents. 

An educated queen 😌 I also love how quickly Kazi can counter Wolffe in an argument, especially in volatile topics like Imperial politics and philosophical debates. I could never—I'd be way too intimidated haha.

This line in particular struck me:

One of the most surprising, and frustrating, difficulties about being a caregiver was her inability to intervene and fix each problem through logic. Logic relied on rationalization and problem solving, and it allowed an individual to retain control over a situation. There was a reason Kazi studied analytics in school and was good at it. Logic was her strong suit.

I've told you this on multiple occasions, but I LOVE Kazi as a character. You're challenging stereotypes of FMCs with her by giving her traits that are typically heralded as "masculine" (even though, in reality, they are not exclusive to just men): stoicism, focusing on logic, physical and mental strength, assertive. It's incredibly refreshing—and I've come to notice that her and Wolffe are two sides of the same coin. They are both unrelenting and guarded and I always look forward to them interacting because of their quick instances of verbal sparring that cut deeply. The argument at the end of this chapter is a perfect example of that!

“Why doesn’t your kid talk?”

DAMN. Wolffe's lack of filter literally makes me anxious. Like a bomb was dropped in the middle of a conversation that no one can take back or forget, even if they tried.

“How was school?” Commander Cody asked. The openness on his face, and the kindness in his tone, made Kazi grimace. 

Sweet Cody 😭 I don't know what is going to happen to him over the course of this story but I hope he gets all the good things.

Scratching the top of her head, Neyti considered her for a long moment. Her eyes darted to the sketch. She lifted it, tongue poking out the corner of her mouth, most likely imagining the sketch placed on the fridge. Neyti smiled.  A small, toothless smile. But a smile, nonetheless.

This warmed my heart too 😭 Something as seemingly trivial as putting her artwork on the fridge made her brighten with a toothless smile just makes me happy. Just the imagery of a little girl with a toothless smile is so CUTE.

I'm continuously impressed by your worldbuilding and how intricate the lore is behind Ceaia and Eluca and their politics. It's so intriguing and adds a beautiful layer to the story.

My thoughts were all over the place lol but this story just makes my thoughts incoherent because there's just so much cool stuff to talk about and unpack and analyze 😌 incredible job as usual, Alli!

I Yearn, and so I Fear - Chapter III

Masterlist | Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

General Summary. Nearly a year since the Galactic Empire’s rise to power, Kazi Ennari is trying to survive. But her routine is interrupted—and life upended—when she’s forced to cohabitate with former Imperial soldiers. Clone soldiers. 

Pairing. Commander Wolffe x female!OC

General Warnings. Canon-typical violence and assault, familial struggles, terminal disease, bigotry, explicit sexual content, death. This story deals with heavy content. If you’re easily triggered, please do not read. For a more comprehensive list of tags, click here.

Fic Rating. E (explicit)/18+/Minors DNI.

Chapter Word Count. 5.7K

Beta. @starstofillmydream

23 Nelona

One-hundred kilometers from Hollow’s Town, the Security Institute of Eluca was located in the heart of the capital. Kazi landed the job through Fehr’s connections. She was more than qualified for the job; however, a government application required listed experience. Experience she couldn’t admit to. 

Having attended the University of Cybersecurity and Analytics on Ceaia, Kazi graduated in the top three percent of her class. Professor recommendations and near-perfect test scores earned her a position at Ceaia’s top-clearance security bureau. There, she worked as a military analyst: data collection, research, analysis, dissemination. She worked with some of the Outer Rim’s best analysts and agents. 

Four years at the Bureau prepared her for the most classified military projects. 

Until the Purge.

Revealing any connection to Ceaia’s government—admitting to her work experience—was a direct path to an ISB interrogation. And subsequent imprisonment. Possibly execution.

So Kazi relied on Fehr’s connections. She completed ten interviews, passed the analysis and mental tests, headed a small project, and soon found herself working for the Security Institute as a data analyst for Imperial exports. Specifically, she was tasked with tracking exports within Veridian Sector’s military bases to ascertain stolen goods. 

It wasn’t until two weeks before the clones’ arrival that Kazi learned why Fehr had paid special attention to her. 

The rebel network wanted people inside as many Outer Rim governments as possible. Kazi was Fehr’s—and by extension, the network’s—best chance at an Elucan spy with access to Veridian Sector confidential data. 

Fehr convinced her the job was fairly safe. Expectations were simple: report any suspicious government activities, important security decisions, persons of interest, and, when able, retrieve necessary intel and/or scrub incriminating data. 

The latter part of the job was the most difficult. The first time Kazi scrubbed intel she spent ten minutes retching in the ‘fresher. Endangering herself meant endangering Daria and Neyti. 

Now, she regretted it. Regretted the decision to seek aid from the network in order to evade Imperial capture, and regretted the decision to scrub data from Imperial records.

Shifting in an uncomfortable wooden chair, Kazi assessed the bare office. Plain white walls. Windows to her left overlooking Canopis. Dark gray buildings built from stone. Kilometers of jungle expanding to the horizon.  

The lack of intrigue inside the superior’s office shifted her attention back to her worries. She replayed the three instances in the past month she had scrubbed or stolen intel. 

Bypassed security clearances, offline cams, reconfigured data to appear untampered. She was careful, methodical, in her approach. 

Someone must have discovered her, though. It was the only explanation for this surprise meeting.

The door behind her swished open and Kazi stiffened. Rising to her feet, she mustered an easy smile and then froze. A human man—someone who was not her superior—strode inside. 

“Ms. Kazi Lucien?” the man asked. 

Over the months, she had grown accustomed to the fake last name—the name she gave the network to protect her identity. She extended a hand. “Yes, sir.”

The man smiled—a disarming smile bracketed by bright white teeth that belied the deadness in his eyes—as he accepted her hand. “Magistrate Aro.”

Dumbstruck, Kazi could only shake his hand. His palm and fingers were cold, his skin dry and smooth. Symbolic of a life behind a desk rather than the typical farm or mining work expected of most Elucans. Then again, this was Magistrate Aro, a native to Eluca Moon One.

The magistrate settled himself behind the polished wooden desk, waving for Kazi to sit. Adorned in a purple robe with black-and-white hair mussed stylishly, the magistrate was charismatic and good-looking. And yet he was commonly disliked by Eluca’s locals. 

Three years ago, Eluca fell victim to a global plague. More than half of the small population died, leaving the planet vulnerable and weak. Eluca Moon One took advantage of the planet’s momentary weakness to initiate one of their own as interim magistrate. Due to government subsidies and a general inability to resist, the remaining Elucans begrudgingly accepted the term. 

They hadn’t known “interim” would lead to permanency. 

Skin gold and eyes pale gray, Magistrate Aro carried himself with a confident aura that bordered self-absorbed. Like a macaw—chest puffed in a show of domination and pride. 

Kazi gleaned from the locals in Hollow’s Town that the magistrate’s greatest fault was his immigration status. He lacked Elucan culture and tradition. He lacked their devout loyalty. He was too brash in his political endeavors, and too impulsive in his decision-making. His refusal to sanction local holidays as paid time off convinced most of their dislike. 

With a probing look, Magistrate Aro gestured to the bar behind his desk. “Would you care for a drink?”

Kazi fixed a polite smile on her face. “I’m fine, thank you.”

The magistrate poured himself a glass—recently imported wine from Alderaan, if the tag were to be believed—and then sat back in the ornate seat, crossing an ankle over his knee. He swirled his wine while regarding her. 

Did the magistrate suspect her of stealing intel? If he did, why would he meet her without security? 

“I reviewed your file,” the magistrate said. He arched a brow in friendly curiosity, and yet Kazi noted the subtle shrewdness in his gaze. The slight tilt of his head as he assessed her. It set her on edge. “You immigrated here back in Kelona?”

Political coyness was not her forte, but years training to be a socialite had taught her the art of masking. So Kazi forced herself to relax in her chair. “I did. Eluca is a lovely planet. I’m glad to be here.”

The magistrate nodded, taking a sip from his wine. “And how would you describe your time here? Has it met your expectations?”

It was obvious the magistrate wanted her to elaborate on the locals and her interactions with them, perhaps as a result of his paranoia. Her mind betrayed her focus, though. Her thoughts shifted to the past month and her cohabitation with the clone commanders.

Kazi thought that first day would be the last time Commander Wolffe interrupted her morning routine. She was wrong. 

Sometime after her morning swim, when she was showering, Commander Wolffe appeared in the kitchen. He sat in the same stool in nearly the same outfit—white work shirt exchanged for gray or black—and was always drinking a cup of caf. A dark roast. 

They never exchanged a greeting. Kazi pretended he didn’t exist while she prepared breakfast for herself and Neyti, and Commander Wolffe ignored her, opting to read his datapad as he sipped his caf. And while he was distracted, she quickly yet politely ate her porridge.

However, as she washed dishes or prepared Neyti’s lunch beside the sink, curiosity encouraged her to peek at the commander’s datapad. Each morning contained something new. Files on military strategy and battle tactics. News updates across the galaxy. Manuals on ship parts. Schematics detailing a prison. They were files she expected a soldier to read. 

One morning, about four weeks ago, she snuck a glance at his ‘pad and did a double take. He was reading an article on adolescent mental development. The subject was so surprising she didn’t look away in time. Commander Wolffe lifted his face, found her blatantly staring at his ‘pad, and scowled. 

That morning, he finished his caf at the wooden table in the backyard.   

True to her routine, Kazi relied on the HoloNet news reports to fill the silence between her and Commander Wolffe. More often, pieces of news caught her or the commander’s attention. Whenever he found her staring intently at the flatscreen, he commented on the subject. His comments weren’t something she could ignore: blunt, cynical. He seemed to comment simply to make her respond.

And she did. Because she had to explain why his opinions were objectively inaccurate. 

Their arguments vacillated between the niche and the extremes: 

Would a new emperor prove a more benevolent ruler? 

What qualifies as a just war?

Is the Empire’s current existence sustainable? 

Does military might guarantee ultimate success? 

How does morality play into lawmaking? 

They spent one morning debating the merits of Empire-controlled pharmaceuticals and healthcare. The commander argued it would prove ineffective, and increase dependency on the government. He further argued the government couldn’t be trusted to provide effective healthcare to every species. Ultimately, the Inner Rim would retain priority. 

It was one of the few times Kazi agreed. So she remained silent, her pride unbent. 

Another morning they argued the legality of tracking. Kazi argued it an invasion of privacy. Commander Wolffe argued the placement of tracking beacons in a public space negated the law of privacy, and he further argued security a more pressing concern than protection of privacy. 

Rolling her eyes, Kazi said it was an ethical dilemma, and to her surprise, the commander agreed. But it was a pointless argument. The Empire neither respected civilian privacy nor abided by ethical deliberation. 

From their debates, Kazi mentally constructed a character profile of Commander Wolffe. 

He…confused her.

The commander clearly didn’t like her and yet he joined her every morning. 

He didn’t trust the network and yet he ran operations out of her house. 

He thought rebellion was pointless and yet he rescued deserting clones from the Imperial military. 

He scorned absolute authority and yet he defended the Republic’s position on the Clone War.

She wasn’t the only one forming a profile. It was clear from pointed questions and probing comments that Commander Wolffe was studying her. Testing her. 

She only hoped she was as unsolvable as he was. 

The other clones were less enigma and more intrigue. 

Commanders Cody and Fox were civil whenever Kazi interacted with them. The former was the friendliest—in a subdued manner—and he didn’t shy from engaging Kazi or her sister in small conversation. 

The latter was reserved, though his quiet was more contemplative rather than mistrustful. Kazi came across him twice in the sunroom, whittling a piece of wood into an intricate carving. He merely nodded at her but she could tell her presence unsettled him. 

Most weeks the clones were gone for days at a time. They returned from their missions with only a handful of deserted soldiers. Those soldiers recuperated for a day or two and then left. 

Interactions were rare. When the commanders were recovering from their missions, they kept to themselves. Most nights they played card games and drank at the outside table. 

Kazi knew little of their daily habits considering her work schedule, but Daria had mentioned the clones spent little time at the house, returning from day-long hikes sweaty or from the Marketplace with groceries. 

Their daily activities were odd. Normal. She thought, since they were soldiers, they would spend their recovery hours doing soldiery things. 

Their habits bamboozled her, and a piece of her wondered if her perception of the clones was inaccurate. Possibly skewed. The thought troubled her, and so she paid more attention to the commanders. Analyzed them like she would her intel. 

Her assessment revealed one common denominator: the clones were weary. They hid it well. Reddened eyes, lined foreheads, burdened shoulders. Small ticks most people would overlook. 

But Kazi saw the strain—she recognized the hollow look in Commander Wolffe’s eyes each morning. She knew it well. It was the same look she saw every time she stood in front of a mirror. 

Cohabitation was easier for her sister. Ever the kind and gentle host, Daria developed an easy rapport with the new soldiers. Neyti, on the other hand, remained shy and suspicious. 

One morning, Commander Wolffe retrieved a cup from an upper cabinet, offering it to Neyti. She glared at him. And then, with a determined scowl, she climbed onto the counter and grabbed a new cup. A cup with a different color and pattern.

Child-like wariness aside, Neyti was curious. She might have glowered when the clones attempted to engage her, but she spent most interactions studying them. Gray eyes narrowed shrewdly. Nose scrunched in deep thought. Kazi wanted to pick her mind on her observations but Neyti’s refusal to speak made it impossible. 

“My time here has been easy,” Kazi answered the magistrate.

The magistrate took another sip from his wine. “When you think of Eluca’s future, what do you imagine?”

Kazi frowned. “I’m not sure I understand.”

“Come now, Kazi.” She didn’t like the sound of her name on his lips, and she didn’t like his knowing smile. “Humor me.”

“I imagine a future…of peace and justice, security for the people,” she said slowly. “A future based on advancement—”

Magistrate Aro snapped his fingers. “A future based on advancement. Spectacular.” His smile widened, like a cave grinning open, eager to swallow sailors astray. “We want the same thing, you and me. We want Eluca to rival the other planets in our galaxy—we want Eluca to stand above all else. We are the future of the galaxy’s success and prominence.”

Voice rising in feverous passion, Magistrate Aro leaned across the desk. “Can you see it? The future where Eluca is no longer considered a measly backwater planet? The future where Eluca is the most advanced and well-bred planet in the Outer Rim? The future where Moff Harpy and her sycophants bow their heads to me, in reverence and respect?”

Kazi bit the inside of her cheek to hide her shock. She had heard the rumors of the magistrate’s paranoia—heard the rumors of his delusions and greed—but she hadn’t realized the severity of it. His current political position proved his cunning nature, and with too much power, he could pose a threat to the rebel network, to Eluca, at large, and even to her and her family.

The magistrate paused his speech. “Well?”

Kazi blinked. “I’m not sure—”

“Can you see it?” The question was sharp, underscored by a hint of distrust bordering suspicion.

“Yes,” she answered. The lie was smooth, buttered with a cold smile. “I can picture it easily.”

The magistrate held her gaze, body tautened from leaning so far forward, and then he exhaled, settling back into his chair. Good-natured suave replaced fervent greed.

“The future we imagine is being threatened.” Magistrate Aro set aside his wine and steepled his fingers together. “Poor leadership, rebel scum, ineffective political backstabbing. I have a vision for Eluca but this vision can shatter too easily if it’s not properly protected.” 

Feigning sympathy, Kazi nodded in agreement.

Magistrate Aro eyed her. “The Elucans lack proprietary for their future. They are too localized and culturally aligned; their traditional sentiments prevent them from being assets to the Empire. Do you know what worries me?”

Before she could answer, the magistrate continued, “Local disgruntlement. Their grumblings foster rebellious behavior, and rebel existence on Eluca would hinder our desires for security and peace.”

Kazi internally scoffed. Rebel existence would ridicule the magistrate’s rule. Make him look incompetent and weak. His self-effacing behavior was a politician’s façade to disguise megalomania.

“I fear rebel sentiments have infiltrated our ranks.”

A spike of fear punctured her lungs and it took effort to remain still. To force her features into confusion and surprise. 

Did he suspect her? Was this the purpose of the meeting?

“Are you certain?” Kazi asked.

“Unfortunately.” Magistrate Aro shook his head, false disappointment belied by the vexed glint in his eyes. “The Elucans are an untrustworthy bunch.”

It took a moment for Kazi to realize his unspoken intent. He didn’t suspect her. Rather, her immigration status made her desirable. Someone he believed he could trust. 

Political backstabbing was rampant among Imperial ranks. Most Imperial officials maintained high-levels of secrecy to achieve greatness, and to protect their backs from their supposed allies. They were, after all, motivated by the same things: money, power, recognition. 

“Have you seen anything of suspect?” the magistrate asked.

Kazi pretended to think, her eyebrows stitched together and lips pursed. She started to shake her head. “I haven’t noticed anything.”

A flicker of disappointment crossed his face. “Rebel activity is increasing across the Outer Rim. Outright terrorism in some places. I am committed to eradicating rebellious sentiments. I can rely on you to keep your eyes open?”

One of the reasons the Empire succeeded in authoritative control and subsequent oppression of the people was its fearmongering.  

Fearmongering allowed the Imps to uncover legitimate rebels more easily. And could easily turn a population against certain ideologies. It also convinced the people to turn on one another.

Rumors were ubiquitous and truth difficult to determine. People were scared, and to protect themselves and their loved ones, they turned on neighbor. Or coworker. 

It was easier to betray a stranger than endanger your partner, or sibling, or parent, or child.   

“I’ll do my duty,” Kazi answered. She brushed her clammy palms down her trousers, prepared for the meeting’s conclusion. 

“One last thing”—the magistrate leaned back in his chair, his smile sly—“I am increasing your duties of responsibility. You will remain on your current team, tracking exports, but I want you to split your time on a separate project. A confidential project.”

Nonplussed, Kazi cocked her head to the side. “What type of new project?”

“It shouldn’t be too difficult for someone of your caliber.” The magistrate slid a datastick across the desk. “I want you to analyze the desertion of clone troopers.” 

Kazi tensed.

The magistrate gestured to the datastick. “You have the necessary records there. I want you to track the locations of desertion, the timeframes. See if there are any patterns.”

“Is this sanctioned by Moff Harpy?” Kazi asked casually, pocketing the datastick.

“It’s our secret.” The magistrate winked. “Can you handle it?”

Aware of the subtle threat in the magistrate’s question, Kazi grinned. “Patterns are my specialty, Magistrate.”  

Hollow’s Town boasted a population of five thousand. It was one of a dozen towns that survived the epidemic, and both population and workforce were booming. 

Primarily an agricultural-based town, the community was convivial. Helpful and close-knit. Outsiders, though, were ignored. Kazi didn’t mind. The Marketplace vendors were always nice to her, and she didn’t care enough to make friends. 

Her only concern was Neyti. 

Hollow’s Schooling One—a primary school for younglings aged five to ten—was one of two primary schools in Hollow’s Town. Located on the west side, and therefore the closest to the house, Hollow’s Schooling One enrolled roughly 150 students. In Neyti’s class: 30 students.

School started at the beginning of the year, in Elona. Neyti arrived a month late, and, as a current six-year-old, was placed into a class full of students who spent the year prior together. 

Kazi worried about Neyti: lack of friends, bullies, loneliness, schoolwork. The last point wasn’t too much of a concern. Neyti was studious, and her grades reflected her hard work. 

However, there were times Neyti struggled with her homework. Instances when she threw her stylus at the table and stomped to her room. Instances where she didn’t understand a problem and her lower lip started to tremble. She never asked for help. 

Kazi had two theories. One, Neyti preferred to solve problems on her own. Or, two, Neyti didn’t know how to ask for help, and/or was too afraid to do so. It left Kazi feeling incompetent. 

So she made sure each evening, after dinner, to work at the kitchen table while Neyti completed her schoolwork. To help, in case the need arose. 

But Kazi couldn’t help Neyti at school. She didn’t know if Neyti had friends, and any related questions were met with silence and an embarrassed shrug. 

One of the most surprising, and frustrating, difficulties about being a caregiver was her inability to intervene and fix each problem through logic. Logic relied on rationalization and problem solving, and it allowed an individual to retain control over a situation. There was a reason Kazi studied analytics in school and was good at it. Logic was her strong suit.

But younglings were driven by emotions. And Kazi couldn’t force other younglings to like Neyti. She would, if she could. 

Having left work early and after warning Daria she was picking up Neyti, Kazi arrived at the small school. Low-squatting and built from a mixture of dark wood and gray stone, the school sat alone on its street.

An elaborate playground bordered the school. Twirly slides, rows of swings, monkey bars (it wasn’t uncommon to find native monkeys swinging from the bars), balance beams, climbing walls, and ziplines interrupted the swath of cleared jungle. Younglings overflowed the playground. Like ants to an anthill. 

Kazi scanned the area for Neyti. A few youngling girls close to her age sat in a circle beneath a shade cover, braiding one another’s hair and giggling. Neyti wasn’t with them.

Frowning, she perused the climbing walls, then the slides, then the balance beams. Finally, her gaze landed on the swings.

Seated on a swing, alone, was Neyti. 

Kazi winced and quickly made her way toward the swings. She had suspected Neyti would have difficulty making friends—the little girl’s refusal to speak probably isolated her from other students—but a part of her had hoped for a better outcome. 

Originally, Kazi theorized Neyti didn’t speak because she didn’t understand Basic. She theorized Neyti learned the Ceaian tongue. A language only a couple hundred people spoke, and the first language she learned.

But the first time Kazi tried to speak to Neyti in the Ceaian tongue the little girl had merely blinked in bewilderment. 

It wasn’t until Neyti’s biweekly therapy sessions with a grief and trauma counselor—therapy sessions Kazi attended to make sure Neyti didn’t accidentally mention Ceaia or other incriminating information—that she learned Neyti’s silence stemmed from the trauma of losing her mother. 

According to the counselor, Neyti would speak when she felt safe enough to do so. And so far, she hadn’t. It was something that bothered Kazi late at night. 

“Neyti.” Kazi stopped a meter away and waved.

Neyti lifted her face, gray eyes wide in shock. Dark brown eyebrows knitted together and she glanced behind Kazi, looking for something.

“Daria isn’t here,” Kazi said. She hadn’t considered the possibility that Neyti didn’t want her here. “I decided to pick you up. I… I hope that’s okay.”

Neyti scrunched her nose in deep thought and then shrugged. 

Kazi’s shoulders sagged in relief. “Are you ready—”

“Ms. Lucien?” 

Tensing at the familiar voice, Kazi schooled her features into professional politeness and turned around. “Teacher Jaci. Did you need something?”

Ivory skin offset by black hair styled in soft waves, Teacher Jaci wore the same ingenuine smile she had worn the first day Kazi met her. Her smile shifted, though, into a frown of insincere confusion. “I wanted to remind you about the kids’ field trip next month.” 

Bewildered, Kazi slid her eyes to Neyti. The little girl was staring at her shoes, shoulders curled inwards, cheeks darkened. 

“You haven’t signed up for it,” Teacher Jaci continued. “Can we mark you as an expected absentee?”

Expected absentee.

The words echoed in her head. A taunt growing louder and stronger.

Kazi fisted her hands behind her back. “What date is the field trip?” 

“The fourth of Helona.” Teacher Jaci retrieved a flimsi sheet from her satchel and handed it to her. Lowering her voice so that Neyti couldn’t hear, she said, “If you are unable to make it, perhaps Neyti’s father can.”

Kazi gripped her wrist harder. “He’s not in the picture.”

“Aw.” The teacher smiled sadly at Neyti. “That does not surprise me.”

With that, Teacher Jaci strolled away. 

For a quiet minute, Kazi stared at the flimsi sheet, the words blurred and incomprehensible. When she lifted her gaze to Neyti’s face, she found the youngling scrutinizing her. The moment their eyes met, Neyti looked at the ground, toeing a patch of grass, her tiny hands clinging to a sketch Kazi hadn’t noticed before.

“So,” Kazi said softly. “A field trip, huh?”

Unmoving and unspeaking, Neyti blinked her apprehension. 

Kazi looked toward the sky—afternoon blue, wooly clouds adrift—and breathed in slowly. Neyti didn’t owe her. If she didn’t want her on the field trip, then she would respect Neyti’s wishes. 

Releasing her breath, Kazi took a tentative step toward the neighboring swing. The seat squeaked beneath her. Wrapping her hands around the chains, she stared at the swarming playground.

“Why didn’t you tell me about the field trip?”

Silence met her question and Kazi lowered her gaze to her neighbor. Neyti gulped, eyes rounded in guilt. 

“It’s okay if you don’t want me to go—” Neyti shook her head. Adamantly. Kazi frowned. “You want me to go with you?”

Mouth opening, Neyti hesitated. She searched Kazi’s face, desperate but guarded, and with the barest dip of her chin, she nodded.

Kazi bumped her knee against Neyti’s. “Why didn’t you tell me about it?”

Abashed, Neyti cast her eyes downward and toed the ground again. 

“Did you think I would say no?”

Another small, nearly imperceptible dip of Neyti’s chin. 

Guilt thrummed beneath her skin and Kazi tapped her foot against the ground. “I want to go. If you’ll have me.”

Neyti nodded eagerly. 

Smiling to herself, Kazi dropped her gaze to the sketch in Neyti’s hands, perusing the colors and shapes. 

A dark blue ocean washed across the page. Tiny sailboats raced among white waves, their sails painted an assortment of bright colors. A single sun glistened in the sky. A face smiled on it. Gray clouds were reminiscent of—

“Is that…” Kazi leaned toward the sketch. “Did you draw Ceaia?” 

Neyti ducked her cheek into her shoulder.  

“I didn’t know you like to draw,” she remarked.

Shrugging, Neyti traced the arcs of the white waves. 

Kazi leaned back in the swing, staring blankly at the small youngling beside her.

She should have known. A real parent would have known; a better caregiver would have known. Neyti had been in her care for three months—98 fucking days—and she didn’t know the little girl liked to draw. 

It was a failure on her part. And she despised failure. 

From a young age, Kazi worked hard to excel at everything. Difficult school courses demanded hours dedicated to studying the subject until she perfected it. Two points missed on a test earned her teasing remarks from her parents. She was expected to make top grades, and her parents were proud of her. She couldn’t disappoint them. 

When she did fail, as was inevitable, it bothered her late at night. Like a terminal disease, unwilling to die and incapable of prevention.

Kazi clenched the swing’s chains until her palms grew numb and her fingers hurt.   

“We can hang it on the fridge.” Her voice was lower, hoarser, and she mustered a smile when Neyti stared at her dubiously. “What do you think? Can we hang it up?”

Scratching the top of her head, Neyti considered her for a long moment. Her eyes darted to the sketch. She lifted it, tongue poking out the corner of her mouth, most likely imagining the sketch placed on the fridge. Neyti smiled. 

A small, toothless smile. But a smile, nonetheless.

Disgruntled voices greeted Kazi and Neyti as they stepped into the house. Shoes shucked off and backpack haphazardly tossed onto the stairs, Neyti led the way into the kitchen. 

The voices quieted. Kazi eyed the card game at the kitchen table. The three clone commanders were joined by two clones Kazi hadn’t met. They gave her skeptical looks, eyes narrowing at the sight of Neyti. Kazi let her gaze wander between the commanders—Cody to Fox to Wolffe. The latter was lounged back in his chair, gaze on her face. 

A pan of cooling vegetables revealed Daria’s recent departure. She was most likely in her garden. 

“How was school?” Commander Cody asked. The openness on his face, and the kindness in his tone, made Kazi grimace. 

For some reason, the commander tried hard to engage Neyti and gain her trust. Unfortunately for him, Neyti was too proud. She refused to bend.

Case in point, Neyti halted before the fridge, a scowl marring her features. Her nose wrinkled. The look she shot Commander Cody was both indignant and unapologetic. 

Deciding the commander was undeserving of Neyti’s disdain, Kazi intervened. “Neyti has a field trip in a few weeks.”

The little girl threw her a betrayed frown. Kazi gave her a pointed look and Neyti huffed her irritation. 

Easing the sketch from Neyti’s hands, Kazi grabbed a handful of magnets from a broken drawer, and slid the picture onto the larger of the fridge’s door.

“Where’s the field trip?” Commander Cody asked conversationally.

“The Museum of Nature and Science.” Kazi looked to Neyti, and with the youngling’s nod of approval, she snapped the magnets in place. “I heard they have a new exhibit about Eluca’s role during the Clone War.”

The hairs on the back of her neck prickled and she glanced over her shoulder. Commander Wolffe had wandered into the kitchen. He stopped at the sink to fill a glass of water. 

“I wasn’t aware Eluca played a role,” Commander Cody said. 

“They didn’t.” Kazi stepped back from the picture. It was crooked and she made to correct it, but Neyti’s satisfied nod convinced her to leave it. She returned her attention to the commander. “Eluca wasn’t militaristically or politically strategic. Which is why the Empire won’t establish a significant Imperial presence here.”

“You don’t think the Empire will move in soon?” 

The voice behind her startled enough she recoiled. Commander Wolffe gave her an unimpressed look, leaning against the opposite counter. The space between the two counters—the sink and the bar versus the fridge and oven—seemed more cramped with his imposing frame in it. 

“I don’t.” She widened her stance, crossing her arms over her chest, prepared for whatever argument the commander was sure to initiate. “Eluca provides nothing of value. The Empire can rest happy knowing Eluca is technically conquered—”

A tap on her arm drew her attention and she found Neyti holding a bag of crisps. A question wrinkled her forehead and Kazi nodded. Neyti disappeared upstairs, the crinkle of her crisps masking her silent footfalls.

“Speaking of the Empire”—Kazi lowered her voice; the game commenced and quieter arguments broke out—“I had a meeting with the magistrate. He has intel on clones deserting from military bases in the Outer Rim.”

Commander Wolffe stilled, former apathy shifting into concern and then wariness. “The magistrate told you this?”

She nodded.

“Why would he tell you that?” The commander pushed off the counter, mirroring her stance. “I thought you were a low-level analyst—”

“Who said I was low level?”

Commander Wolffe rolled his eyes. “Why would a planetary magistrate meet with you?”

Barely concealed derision laced his words together and Kazi stiffened. It didn’t matter she had asked the same question hours ago—before she learned Magistrate Aro’s intent—but the suspicion in the commander’s gaze, his clear disdain for her, incited a sharp flare of anger.

“It’s no concern to you,” she said calmly. A muscle flexed in his jaw. “I only mentioned it to give you a warning.”

“You’re helping us now, is that it?”

“If you’re caught, you could rat us out.” He scoffed and she gritted her teeth. “I’ll do whatever is necessary to protect Neyti and my sister.”

“Why should I believe you?” 

Kazi dug her fingernails into her arms. “I know you only care about yourself, Commander, but your carelessness can endanger my—”

He scoffed. “I’m not careless. Our missions are strategized to the most minute details and—”

“I don’t care about your missions. I care about my sister and Neyti.” Her voice tightened. “I’m giving you a warning and you’re dismissing it like it’s nothing—”

“Tell me why the magistrate informed you of this,” the commander demanded. “Does he suspect you?”

“No. He wants me—” Kazi cut herself off, considering the blatant mistrust in his face. If she revealed Magistrate Aro’s project, Commander Wolffe would assume the worst of her. And she wasn’t in the mood to be questioned or ridiculed.

“I don’t care if the Empire discovers me,” she said. “But I won’t endanger Neyti and Daria.”

Something—perhaps understanding—rippled across his features.

“Be more aware of your surroundings,” she concluded. “That’s all I’m asking.”

Tugging on one of her braids to dispel her jitters, Kazi made to leave. 

“Why doesn’t your kid talk?”

The question was so unexpected she froze. Commander Wolffe was staring at the sketch on the fridge, arms still crossed over his chest, his brows drawn together. 

Kazi didn’t immediately respond. The answer to his question was weighted in trauma and history she preferred the clones didn’t know, and it would provide too much insight. Not only to Neyti, but also insight to her. 

Commander Wolffe’s annoyed curiosity by her presence—his too-personal questions in the morning—led her to believe he was searching for a weakness. A weakness she never wanted him to discover.

His gaze flitted in her direction. He arched a brow. The simple gesture made her spine straighten. 

“The therapist she sees blames it on grief,” she said. A frown marred his features. “Losing a parent is hard. Much less watching them die.”

A blink was his only sign of surprise. “You’re not her mother.”

“Her mother asked me to watch over her.” She held his gaze, her stomach coiling with unbridled tension. “She didn’t make it. Because she was shot. By one of the Empire’s clone troopers.”

His reaction was immediate. Stiffening posture. Clenching jaw. Inscrutable emotions crossing his face before settling into a hard, stony mask. 

Kazi looked at the sketch. Tiny figures manned the sailboats.

In Traditionalist Ceaian culture, learning to sail was a rite of passage. Navigating a storm and returning a boat safely to harbor proved a juvenile was prepared for the trials and challenges of adulthood. Everyone in the harbor celebrated the success. 

Kazi wondered if Neyti had ever sailed. 

Far from land. Wind in her hair. Salty breeze in her face. 

She knew the little girl would love it. 

But the opportunity would never arise. Neyti would never learn to sail. And she would never see her mother again. 

Kazi turned away, murmuring to the expressionless male beside her, “Good evening, Commander.”

A/N: Next chapter release – January 25th

Star Wars Time Measurements: 

1 day = 24 hours 1 week = 5 days 1 month = 35 days 1 year = 10 months

Masterlist | Chapter 2 | Chapter 4

[nikethestatue]

I am so ready for Elain, because I am so so tired of your average "badass" fmc. I am not rude to people for the sake of being "witty" or "sassy," I do not carry swords or sling guns, getting into someone's face to "assert my dominance" makes me uncomfortable, and the thought of working out makes me want to cry. I like to stay at home and bake and read, and the idea of seeing that in a fmc, and for those traits to be her strength is something I have needed for a long time, and am very excited for

Me too.

I’m so tired of goddesses, deities, flame throwing queens, secret queens/princesses, acrobatic warriors, dragon slayers, etc.

Gimmie someone normal. Or relatively normal. Someone I can relate to, who isn’t some spectacular fighter or power slinger. I don’t exactly trust SJM with that, because she can’t cut the cord to her beloved YA heroines upon which she rests like they are a crutch.

But we’ll see. I mean, I had high hopes for Emerie, who seemed to be an unusual character, who just tended to her shop and lived a quiet life, but here she is, with a sword and a Carynthian.

So do I think that SJM will craft a unique story for Elain, free of all this predictable over the topness? Not really. But I sure we’ll see.

[dirigma]

hotd spoilers for 10, tw domestic violence + abuse

condal’s commentary on the choking is so smug about having written a “grey” character capable of dv and wholly without consideration for what it means or does to its target. which is to say that the writer’s room has gleefully undercut rhaenyra’s freedom to move around in her home and the center of her power by having the specter of daemon’s possible violence hang over everything.

i’ve been frustrated with the comparisons to rhea (not a targ, not the wife of his choosing), but i’m now coming around to what this says about the writers’ room. that they have made rhaenyra an analog to rhea shows a shocking disregard for her as a fmc. i can’t stress enough that abuse in the home can mean never knowing how or why the next fist falls. they’ve chosen that for rhaenyra, in an episode w the trappings of empowerment. it colors everything.

this in the aftermath of an extremely traumatic stillbirth and the death of her father, in the running-up to the death of her son. like it hits so empty for me that the show ends on this moment of would-be warmonger cum girlboss rhaenyra. that’s a male fantasy of female strength! and a particularly cynical one given that the show has taken such great care to show how much rhaenyra loves and has loved daemon, only to have this be its endpoint—rhaenyra as ready target for his rage and violence, as an ever replenishing site of trauma. childbirth, assault, loss, her body can take it all on and still arise a girlboss queen! isn’t that feminism? that you should suffer every loss, the man you love will hit you and leave you, but you must and will get up the next day and do your job, business as usual?

this also presents a very bleak vision of masculinity. to the writers, even a husband cannot cede any power to his wife without in some way subjugating her. “oh well this isn’t surprising because daemon is terrible and grey!” asserts the false and insidious dichotomy that a male character either strangles his wife or is ned stark, you can only be a monster or a good man. it’s an absurdly narrow understanding of what an anti-hero is and can be. condal cites various precedents as though part of the fantasy of jaime lannister and oberyn martell wasn’t their devotion to cersei and ellaria sand.

all to say that i’m disappointed! and bereft that this isn’t a larger conversation. violence against women is simply par for the course, no matter that it is the main character, no matter that she is the queen, no matter that it is so thinly and thoughtlessly drawn.

[wlw-lovestruck-fiction]

What do the mods think of the new series, more specifically the new female LI?

A secret, time-traveling society? Huh. Okay. Might take a while for me to warm up to it completely but-

(Alanna appears, with an ex thematic to boot)

...I take it back. I take it all back. I’m going to enjoy the hell out of this. Alanna has a nice personality, she’s supportive, sweet, assertive when she needs to, and she’s honestly concerned for FMC. How FMC and her banter with each other in these episodes had me hooked. Also those eyes of hers 👀👀👀 I’m betting we’ll have A LOT of flashbacks in her route and I love that. I really want to read how they meet.

Regarding the series... I really like the whole thing with Richard and the relationship FMC has with MMC. I’m waiting to see how it will be handled in Emilio’s route 👀

The Society thing doesn’t interest me as much, but the characters more than make up for it. - Mod Jessa

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International/Worldwide shipping can have gotten to be a bother in case you're not mindful of all the prerequisites required to dispatch your products. A Customs bond is required for importing products surpassing $2500 worth of commercial value.

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Despite the fact that there is a wide information regarding international or global shipment process, in this following article I will show you the 5 simple steps on how to do import, especially for the newbies.

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[caffeinated-artist]

You (One-shot):

Author's Note:

This will be my attempt at, yet another, Markus x Connor x FMC (or Fem!Reader, depending). It's going to be sort of like an AU, where Connor and Markus belong to the MC. We'll pretend this is an AU where Androids are equal to their human counterparts and each has its own personality. No revolution, fighting, etc.

Honestly, I am nervous af to post this, but I'm somehow proud of this work, as well. It's not the best, but fuck it. 🤷🏽‍♀️

P.S. The • • • means that some time has skipped between said paragraphs.

I never imagined my life would be like this.

In the beginning, things were a little different.

When I bought them, I simply did so, because I was lonely. I feared human interaction.

My anxiety wouldn't allow it. Just the thought of leaving my apartment nearly caused an attack. Needless to say, like anyone else, I did what I needed to do, in order to thrive, to survive.

For the most part, I had to force myself to overlook, to overcome the erratic beating in my chest, the throbbing in my skull, and the apprehension that consumed my energy.

That is until I met them.

Markus and Connor.

I scarcely notice or experience the assaults, since their arrival. Things have been interesting, to say the least.

• • •

The disturbing melody strains my nerves, forcing me to rouse.

Extending a hand in the presumed direction, the tune vanishes promptly. Although, I had yet to grasp the device.

Only did my eyes part in appreciation, to the sound of his voice. "Good morning," His walnut brown stare sends a delightful warmth bursting through my veins.

"Good morning." I croak, elbows pressed into the mattress beneath me. "Where's Markus?" My eyes had yet to adjust.

"Kitchen. Are you hungry?"

"Starving."

Perhaps a little over-exaggerated, but honest, no less. The increasing ache within my gut validates my declaration.

However, thwarted by an abrupt heat against my lips.

Supple and sweet.

I'd never tire of this.

Our osculation shifts, immediately. His tongue prodding, hungry.

Our separation, though brief, had given me the opportunity needed. "Connor, "

He hums, in acknowledgment.

"Breakfast."

"Why have that, when you can have me?" The way his tongue glides along his upper lip should have been a sin.

Straight criminal.

"As appetizing as she may think it is," Markus steps in. "I think a warm meal will suit her."

"Good morning, Markus."

"Did you sleep well?" His smile was enough to light up an entire room.

"I did," Rubbing the film from my eyes, I peel back the covers, grounding my feet, "What did you make for breakfast?"

"The usual, today."

"Yes!" My soft cheer gave light to a small fortune that I proceeded to celebrate within.

Vacating the area, the men accompany me, "Any plans, today?"

"No," The week before, I took it upon myself to set aside a few minutes to plan out the following week. Exercise, Meal Plans, and Hobbies.

Organizing and planning had been one of the few things that came easy to me.

And yet, It seems to cause more tension, rather than solace.

Especially when I've run short of time.

Freshly brewed coffee permeates the air, stimulating my taste buds.

"We should go out." Connor's cheery proposal seizes our attention.

"Out?" I hadn't been entirely against the notion.

"Yeah. Like a walk, a road trip, or eve--"

"Let us not get ahead of ourselves. We're not sure how (name) is feeling today." Tipping over the glass pot, Markus sets the cup in front of me.

The usual; Three sweeteners and cream.

Connor's pleasant mood had collapsed, indicating his apparent dissatisfaction with Markus' statement.

It was seemingly impossible to ignore, "A walk sounds nice."

"Your SNS activity is average, but your heart rate has increased. Will you be alright?" Markus remarks, setting the dish against the table.

I tend to forget the abilities Androids possess.

Since the very beginning, the two of them have been reading me like an open novel.

Documenting my physical and emotional stress in different situations.

"I'm fine."

"If yo--"

"I want to go for a walk." I assured him.

Connor's expression had been riddled with, what I'd only assume to be, guilt. "The minute you start to feel uneasy, tell us."

I considered myself fortunate, lucky that both of them were here for me, with me, and only me.

My heart is greedy and I felt little shame in admitting the voiceless truth.

There was nothing wrong with that, right?

• • •

"You look nice." Markus had the propensity to keep things... Orderly. Or rather, mature.

While Connor, on the other hand, seemed to be the opposite.

It isn't that he's not sophisticated. In fact, his entire energy practically howls refinement.

More specifically, Markus seems relatively reserved. Yet, Connor appears to be outgoing.

Strange, how their personalities differ. Although, fascinating no less.

For the most part, neither of the two seem to collide.

Of course, people tend to believe that opposites do attract.

"Wouldn't you agree, Connor?"

He didn't hesitate, "Of course." The corner of his lips forming, a mere grin against his countenance. "There's not a single day that passes, where I've felt differently."

"I agree."

A steady fervor consumes the entirety of my heart, the familiar sensation burrowing within my abdomen.

I wanted to refute their compliments, to assert the numerous amount of faults that torment me.

But, that would be inconsiderate.

"Thank you, " My appreciation, though faint, held sobriety.

Our fingers, interlaced.

Delicate and warm.

As a set of heterochromia eyes gaze upon me.

Beautiful.

In a matter of seconds, my lips were against him. I'd hardly contain the desire that overcame me, "That was... Unexpected."

A flush to match, "Sorry. I just felt like it."

I hardly took the initiative.

When it boils down to intimacy, affection, Markus and Connor were frequently tugging on the reins.

Not that I mind.

The heat between, trickling onto my skin, as his lips sought mine once more.

Absolute bliss.

Coolness courses through my bones, piercing my spine. Nonetheless, pleasant, as Connor's fingertips graze the palm of my hand, urging our divergence, "Shall we?"

Hand-in-hand, as we strut side-by-side.

The three of us, together.

A memory that I'll cherish. Always.

[creepingsharia]

Texas: First Known Convicted Terrorist Asked For ‘First Step Act’ Early Prison Release

“This law was hastily passed and needs to be revisited before people start getting hurt.”

via @BensmanTodd

...

This past May, Bureau of Prisons Inmate No. 9627173 – Plano, Texas wife and mother Sumaiya Ali – asked a federal judge for early release from her terrorism sentence under the First Step Act. It is the first such case that I know of, but if this has occurred once, more are likely in a pipeline emptying out potential terror recidivists into the nation, a prospect about which I wrote that we are not well prepared for as a homeland security matter. This law was hastily passed and needs to be revisited before people start getting hurt.

Ali was convicted in 2017 for lying to FBI counterterrorism investigators along with her husband, Mohamed Ali, that they had no idea their two sons Plano Senior High School graduates Arman and Omar Ali, traveled to fight with ISIS in Syria (neither have been heard from since). This was an all-in-the-family ISIS affair about which I wrote more fully in this March 2019 column.

It can be argued that Sulaiyman Ali hits the threshold of nonviolent activity on behalf of terrorism. But buried in the court files, the evidence indicates that both parents were fully supportive of violent jihad for their sons on deeply held religious grounds, gave their influential blessings that the boys kill infidels for an ISIS caliphate, and possibly even planned to join or visit them in the region until the FBI prevented them from boarding a plane at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport.

Dad got about a year in prison for wittingly covering up what he knew about his sons and was released at his scheduled time April 17 of this year into a halfway house, according to BOP’s public inmate locator. But mom took an additional 30 months for lying longer and harder. She won’t be released until April 13 of next year from the FMC Carswell facility in Fort Worth, Texas. This seemed more than Ali wanted to stand.

Shortly after the December 2018 First Step Act implementation, Ali asked U.S. District Judge Marcia Crone for early release (wrongly, it later turned out). In a January 8, 2019 letter couched as ”a desperate plea of a mother,” Ali asked to serve the remaining sentence on home confinement or in a half-way house. As grounds, she cited the emotional struggles of her “withdrawn” and “embarrassed” 14-year-old daughter Sabeen, who is living with her brother and sister-in-law in Houston, ashamed her parents were in prison and that her older brothers were fighting overseas for a barbaric cause.

“She has lost her whole family and finding it very hard to cope with this traumatic situation…She is the innocent victim of the terrible choices that I made, and I take full responsibility for her predicament,” Ali pleaded, in part.

Tailoring a Claim to Fit First Step Act Provisions

To better grasp what Ali is trying to do, It will help to know something about the two main provisions of the First Step Act, both of which apply retroactively to already-sentenced people. One provision addresses the front-end reductions for the old mandatory sentences for repeat drug traffickers. Sumaiya Ali is hoping to tap the other provision, as outlined in Section 3632, part D, that would allow removal to alternative spaces for up to a third of total sentences. These are granted among other rewards to inmates who can demonstrate they have participated in “recidivism reduction” programs.

Processes not being very well ironed out yet, Ali asked the wrong person for the break: a federal judge, rather than Bureau of Prisons administrators. In May 2019, Ali filed a second request to Judge Crone for the law’s holy grail of release to a half-way house or to home confinement. The two-page legalistic letter seemed to hit the necessary right chords. For example, Ali asserted that she had been a model prisoner with an excellent work history while incarcerated, and was a nonviolent first offender.

She listed some dozen or so adult-education classes she took in jail: Forbidden Tombs, In the Womb, Untold Secrets of the Titanic and Modern Marvels, among them.

“A final question arising for this honorable court to answer would appropriately be whether (it) would encourage the individuals who successfully participated in correction self-improvement and rehabilitation program by granting these individuals downward (sentences), and in so doing, boost the confidence of the participants in their improvement and skills letting them become more productive members of society?”

Down But Possibly Not Out

Judge Crone, however, correctly ruled that she had no jurisdiction to shorten Ali’s sentence or change where she serves it; the Bureau of Prisons does.

“Moreover, to the extent Ali asserts that the First Step Act of 2018, Public Law Number 115-391 mandates that the BOP release her to a half-way house or home confinement for any period of time, she is in error,” Judge Crone concluded. “Under the current version… ‘the BOP is authorized to consider placing an inmate in a community correctional facility…Consistent with the forgoing analysis, Ali’s motion is DENIED.”

Nothing else in the court file indicates whether she has pressed her case with BOP, but it seems highly likely that she has. We will no doubt know the outcome of that only after an early release.

More importantly, the Ali case stands as a strong first indicator that those convicted of terrorism-related crimes are eying the First Step Act and that anonymous BOP bureaucrats have the unchecked power to grant them benefits as they evidently have to those convicted of explosives-related charges and sex offenders.

...

...Congress and everyone involved in the decision chain should remember that bloodshed terrorism is only made possible when non-violent supporters provide the incitement, recruitment, moral support, finances, ammunition, and guns that make the killing possible.

Read it all.

[foodsindustry]

Introduction of Novel Extracts Boost Phytonutrients Market

Phytonutrients are bioactive food components which play a crucial role in promoting good health. They are natural compounds produced by plants but are highly beneficial for human health as well. They are generally found in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, tea, and spices. They exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties due to which they find application across various industries such as food & beverages, supplements, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Market Research Future (MRFR) has thoroughly studied the trends and patterns in the global phytonutrients market analysis over the forecast period of 2017-2023 in an exclusive report. MRFR has asserted that the phytonutrients market is poised for impressive CAGR of 6.2% and is likely to reach a significant valuation by the end of 2023.

The prevalent trend of healthy living across the globe has sparked greater interest in nutritious food items. Fast-paced lifestyle and an increase in the prevalence of chronic diseases have prompted consumers to resort to various supplements to fulfill their nutrition requirements. Realization of the health benefits associated with them has increased the demand for phytonutrients.

Phytonutrients are capable of influencing chemical processes inside human bodies. They can stimulate the immune system, inhibit the growth rate of cancer cells, regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and reduce oxidative damage to cells. Such properties make them highly desirable for application in the pharmaceutical and supplement industry. Phytonutrients have demonstrated huge potential in the treatment of cancer. They may help in the prevention of cancer by protecting cells from becoming cancerous, limit the production of cancer cells and limit the production of cancer-related hormones.

The rise in vegan population and adoption of various dietary trends have further induced demand within the phytonutrients market. Additionally, development in extraction technologies coupled with continued innovation in extracts across various ingredients type is expected to augment the growth of the phytonutrients market.

To get more info: https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/press-release/phytonutrients-market

Competitive Landscape

RAISIO PLC. (Finland), FMC CORPORATION (U.S.), CYANOTECH CORPORATION (U.S.), Dohler GmbH (Germany), DSM N. V. (The Netherlands), Chr. Hansen A/S (Denmark), KEMIN INDUSTRIES INC. (U.S.), BASF SE (Germany), Archer Daniels Midland Company (U.S.), and CARGILL INC (U.S.) are the distinguished players in the phytonutrients market.

Segmentation

The global phytonutrients market has been segmented based on type and application.

By type, the phytonutrients market has been segmented into carotenoids, phytosterols, flavonoids, vitamins, and others. The carotenoids segment is leading the market and is followed by the flavonoids segment. However, the phytosterols segment is expected to showcase substantial growth over the forecast period.

By application, the phytonutrients market has been segmented into food & beverages, supplements, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and others. The food & beverage segment is dominating the market while the supplements segment is anticipated to perform well.

Regional Analysis

By region, the phytonutrients market has been segmented into North America, Asia Pacific (APAC), Europe, and the Rest of the World (RoW).

Europe is domineering the phytonutrients market. Germany, Italy, and France are the key markets within Europe where high health awareness and spending capacity of the population is considerably high. Meanwhile, the majority of the market players are based in North America due to which the market is experiencing substantial growth. High health awareness paired with consumption of functional foods generates demand for phytonutrients.

North America and Europe are mature market and are likely to expand at a relaxed pace while Asia Pacific market stores ample scope for market expansion. Increasing health awareness in the region has induced high demand for healthy foods in the region. Additionally, increasing spending capabilities of consumers in the region has prompted market players to expand their activities in the region which further favors the growth of the market. The APAC market is expected to grow at a relatively faster rate and capture the highest CAGR over the forecast period.

Industry Updates

March 2019 - KahlWax, a leader in natural waxes, launched a new skincare product 6427 Megasoft Complex. The product is enriched with natural phytosterol mixture obtained from pine trees which is suitable for all types of skin and hair applications.