#but as time passed he relied on his advice less and less

[cubbihue]

Ok this is gonna sound fun but, did Timmy ever get any advice from "fairy mason" who was his fairy lawyer in the norm the genie episode. It would be cool to see Timmy have a mentor

Timmy practically lived in Fairy Mason's office throughout his entire schooling at Pixies' Academy. He had lots of questions and discussions and thoughts!!!! And Fairy Mason answered every. single. one of them.

Fairy Mason wrote the letter of recommendation to the Fairy Council to let Timmy work so close with Jorgen on Da Rules' policy changes! Timmy was able to hit the ground running by the time he entered the workforce thanks to it. He also quickly made a name of himself as one of the best lawyers of the Pixie Court due to Mason's tutelage!

Bitties Series: [Start] > [Previous] > [Next]

[night-raven-tattler]

Say hi to daddy!

Summary: How would these characters behave as fathers? What does their ideal family look like?

Characters: Savanaclaw dorm (Leona, Jack, Ruggie)

Other parts of the series: Heartslabyul, Octavinelle, Scarabia, Pomefiore, Ignyhide, Diasomnia, Royal Sword Academy

Warnings: none

By opening the document, you agree to Mx Tattly's terms of source confidentiality.

-ˋˏ’✄┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈

The chances of Leona agreeing to having kids is very low: he has a lot of baggage and personal beliefs that would make him not be fully on board

Plus, why would he need another screeching box when Cheka is already around?

But then a bit later in life... something happens and suddenly he has a child in his and his partner's care

Because why would anything ever go the way he wants?

Yet, he grows attached, with the help of his partner

He's the only one who can put the kiddo to sleep, and the only one whose hair the kiddo likes to play with

While his lazy predisposition doesn't allow Leona to go too much out his way for the kid, he's far from an absent father

He is not only present but trying his best to be an example

Because, even if the child ends up seeing him as a bad example, he will be satisfied with the lessons he managed to teach

He loves roughhousing with the kid or challenging their young mind

And when he's too overwhelmed, Cousin Cheka is available for babysitting duty

For Leona, fatherhood becomes a time of finally healing inner wounds while becoming more understanding without being dejected: it's the time when he finally finds an inner balance and find some peace

...he still won't ask Falena for fatherly advice though

Leona is, for sure, a girl dad; he also will pump the brakes at 1 child, 2 children would probably open old wounds he's not quite ready to deal with

『••✎••』

Jack is, undeniably, a family man whose life goals follow a pretty traditional route: get married, have children, grow old and see his family thrive

His classmates sometimes teased him lightly about it, but they all were happy for him when they saw Jack's content smile at his wedding and later at the apparition of his first child

From the very beginning, Jack is a good husband and a doting father, and he loves spending one on one time with his kids the most

Jack loves having his little ones join him in his training regimens, even if all they do is watch and ask questions

That's what they do usually anyway, the kiddos have been waddling towards their dad since they were in diapers

Dominant beastmen traits or not, he still expects them to do their best physically, and he's the dad to sign up every kid for a sport

Not that he wouldn't be understanding if any of his kids happened to take a less physically challenging path in life: he'd be just as supportive, but he'd also reflect on his actions and ask his partner if they think he's done something wrong

Parenthood is a chance for Jack to learn how to be more of a team player, not only as part of a parental unit, but also as a dad who needs to meet his kids in the middle and understand that the "pack leader" can still be wrong if he doesn't listen to his pack

Jack would enjoy 3-4 kids, he loves the idea of a big family, and he'd totally be a boy dad

『••✎••』

Ruggie

Ruggie never really thought about having kids, his main focus has always been financial stability and reducing that food anxiety

But it's very likely Ruggie would end up with an unplanned kid

He wasn't completely on board with the idea of parenthood... until his little one looked into his eyes and smiled

Did Ruggie accidentally pass down his pickpocketing skills to this kid? Because they just stole his heart

But that doesn't mean he really has a good grip on what parenting really means; yes, Ruggie is dependable and responsible, but he also is an orphan who has always fought against a lot of prejudice

So he often relies on his grandma for advice, she's the closes thing he has to a parent

He's the dad that really pushes his kid to learn as many things as they can, anything that can become a life skill will eventually come in handy

He helps his kid build up their independence, while they help him become more open and honest

Ruggie is very open with his child about his upbringing from the moment he feels like they are ready to hear it, and he makes them understand that his position in the Sunset Savannah is nowhere near the top as a hyena beastman

But he promises them that they are not any less worth being someone deserving of living comfortably just because of some societal garbage

Ruggie doesn't really have a gender preference, but would prefer 1 child, so the financial burden wouldn't be too heavy

『••✎••』

[usuimisaki]

How Do I (Not) Love Thee? Let Me Count the Ways

Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun is insane. It’s a gag manga built on misunderstandings, mostly accomplished by the fact that the entire cast has two brain cells put together. The main joke of the manga is how everyone is always acting like they’re in a romantic relationship—without any of the romance. In the beginning, the joke was facilitated by the fact that Nozaki is always trying to simulate being in a romantic situation for research purposes for the shoujo manga that he writes, but then other characters got involved and they’re even more ridiculous than he is.

Horikashi

Omg, where do I begin?

Kashima constantly talks about how to get Hori to dote on her. For some reason, despite the advice of Sakura, Mikoshiba, and a drunk Hori himself, she can’t bring herself to go to club regularly. Hori should just go back to telling Kashima he likes her/giving her head pats/just kiss her already to properly motivate her.

Kashima has a rivalry with Nozaki since Hori said that Nozaki was his favorite kouhai, so Kashima gets angry when Hori gives Nozaki snacks or when she thinks Nozaki is going to text Hori before her. She also stole all of the head pats that Hori was going to give to Nozaki even though they were play acting.

Nevertheless, they do spend a lot of time together in club, and club members hilariously either get or misinterpret their dynamic. Like, they understand that Kashima wanted to show off her legs to get Hori’s attention since she might have been jealous of Hori liking a pair of legs in a picture (actually her legs).

On the other hand, when Hori freaking HUGGED Kashima to comfort her after she got upset, the drama club members just interpret this as ad-libbing.

They hang out together outside of club too, to the point that when they couldn’t even go HALF A DAY without talking without a) Kashima complaining about how painful it was and b) Hori going into shock. As a follow-up, Hori started meeting Kashima at the train station in the morning.

When Kashima went on a school trip, she texted Hori constantly.

When trying to make conversation with Mikoshiba before Mikoshiba knew Hori was the backgrounds guy, Mikoshiba thought the backgrounds buy was a Kashima stalker (once he knew that the backgrounds guy was Hori, he felt relieved)

Whenever anyone gets praised around Hori, he has to check to make sure that that person isn’t better than Kashima. He also realizes that Kashima is his ideal girl as well as guy.

When Kashima invades Hori’s personal space, he either responds by gazing at her beautiful face or noticing that her eyes are red.

Kashima, to the extent that she listens to anybody, listens to Hori. One notable example is when she passed the basketball to him when he said to EVEN THOUGH HE WAS ON THE OPPOSITE TEAM.

Hori went around telling Kashima (but also other people) that he liked/loved her for a while.

Hori actually likes listening to Kashima’s horrible singing, even though he knows it’s objectively bad. He even records it specifically so he can fall asleep to it at night. WTF?

Seowaka

These guys . . . these guys are almost as bad.

Technically, the reason Waka goes out with Seo so much is to spare his kouhais the pain of spending time with Seo, but that does translate into them going out a lot. At one point the basketball club tries to get Seo a boyfriend so she’ll be . . . less Seo-like, and in the end they just rely on Waka.

Waka got pretty upset when he thought that Seo had a boyfriend though (turned out to be Kashima).

Seo realized that she likes bullying Waka specifically.

Whenever Waka is NOT allowed to interact with Seo, such as when she accidentally had a card turned to not being bothered, he gets morose.

He also got morose when Seo didn’t text him while on the school trip.

He got morose when Seo didn’t hang to hang out with him right after she got back from the school trip.

It’s pretty established that he says he loves Lorelei (whom he doesn’t know is Seo), but even once he does know, he gives her all these gifts, like food and earrings.

But . . . the food is not a big deal considering Seo is always making Waka go out to buy her food anyway.

The whole interaction between Waka and Seo now that he knows she’s Lorelei is a little weird, since he’s said so many times that he loves Lorelai—but it seems more like the love for an idol instead of actual romantic love. The main change is that Waka now accepts Seo’s orders more willingly.

Waka told Seo that he liked her for some reason (to freak her out?) and it worked, but then he had to tell her it was a joke to make up with her since they had arranged to see a movie together. He sometimes still says it because he likes how freaked out she gets about it.

NozaChiyo (Sakuzaki)

Well, can’t leave out the title character. This is the only couple where one of them actually acknowledges their feelings as romantic. Lately they’ve been getting some air-time, with Nozaki actually reciprocating but in denial.

Even though Sakura’s confession doesn’t go anywhere romantic, she does become Nozaki’s mangaka assistant, which entails spending lots of time at his apartment. This is turned into a joke later on when Nozaki’s classmates invite her along to visit his place since everyone knows she has a massive crush on him and she has to pretend she’s never been there.

Even early on, Nozaki said that he’d be shocked if Sakura abandoned him (though the fact that Hori is more irreplaceable as a manga assistant is a frequent source of jealousy for Sakura).

Nozaki feeds Sakura a lot. It’s not like he doesn’t feed his other assistants, but he especially feeds Sakura, even outside of his apartment. Nozaki even realizes this, to the point that he tells Kashima that’s how they got close (prompting Kashima to feed Hori the notorious brandy cake)

Nozaki even made Sakura oven mitts for her cooking project (where she was baking cookies for him).

Nozaki (and Seo) got jealous when Sakura hugged the Wakamatsu doll Nozaki made for Seo (so he made a Sakura doll for her).

Nozaki really wanted to hold Sakura’s hand after she got “lost.” Of course Nozaki asked Kashima for advice about this and she told him it was a motherly feeling. I’m not sure if this actually counts since it’s actually romantic as opposed to non-romantic. I guess as long as there’s plausible deniability it counts.

Main vectors of romance-adjacent behavior

Spending stupid amounts of time together (but they could just be club buddies/coworkers).

Jealousy—I was going to say that Horikashi was an exception, but Kashima is jealous of Nozaki. Hori is annoyed at fangirls if they prevent Kashima from going to club.

Touch (this is mostly Horikashi, but Seo has started rubbing Waka’s head, but let us not forget that Sakura once sat in Nozaki’s lap—prompting Seo to do the same with Waka. Hori has given Kashima a lap-pillow a couple of times, once for Mikoshiba’s sake, and once during the king game)

Knowing a huge amount about the other person (Sakura is an acknowledged stalker, but Hori and Kashima come close)

Feeding (Nozaki, Kashima, and Waka)

Obedience (Kashima listens to Hori, Waka listens to Seo—Sakura and Nozaki actually have a mutually respectful relationship)

Telling them that they like them (Hori demotes this behavior by just telling everyone he likes them, Sakura’s confessions always go awry, and Waka as a joke)

Tolerating the other person’s terrible behavior (Waka obviously (poor kid has Stockholm Syndrome), Hori for Kashima’s singing (he kind of puts up with her other terrible behavior, but also smacks her for it), Sakura putting up with Nozaki’s eccentricities)

Other special treatment (Hori praising Kashima, Kashima hovering around Hori, Seo bullying Waka, Waka idolizing Lorelai but also thinking about Seo (as a troublemaker) a lot, Sakura for almost anything regarding Nozaki, Nozaki mothering Sakura)

Being cheered on by another member of the cast (everyone knows about Sakura’s crush, Mikoshiba is the biggest Horikashi supporter, and even Hori supports Seowaka for the sake of Nozaki’s manga)

[helloescapist]

Love and a Bath | Mitsuri Kanroji

Word Count: 2483

Setting: Mitsuri Kanroji x gn!reader (reader is depressed), angst, comfort fic, established relationship

Content Warnings: hints of depression, as well as brief mentions of murder.

Summary: acounter with a demon's memories have rattled your foundation, leaving you in the depths of your thoughts, and allowed time to process. Only Mitsuri's care can bring you back from the edge.

[Image is not my own, credit goes to the artist]

Just a small short because I truly believe that if you had a bad day (or week), Mitsuri would do draw a bath, wash your back, and untangle your hair. 🌸

The mission had hung heavily on you; it was not that the demon itself was challenging, nor that it was particularly difficult opponent. In fact, its demon art had yet to properly develop, likely a young fiend, new to the night. It hadn’t seemed adapted to its own body and its unique movements, what less able to utilize its ability. No, in terms of the scurry itself, the battle if it could even be referred to as such didn’t even last a minute, but it was the memories that unfolded.

 The depth of slice through the neck, one precise and effortless. Well formed, and insured no unnecessary suffering, the side of your breathing technique that had brought you pride. Merciful, and quick. Your breathing had relied on speed and precision, and required no strength. Tiger Lily breathing had been a beautiful form, one derived from Buddhist beliefs. Often, there was relief upon finishing the mission. The memories, the sorrow that followed the demon as the passed on. Often times remorseful, other times confused as a small child, some even felt abandoned by the fates. The memories in a since, offered closure, and comprehension. How their lives had unfolded, their ends, the paths they had walked to become a sinister shadow in the night, abandoned children, scorned love, hunger, disease, so many routes could lead to their fates. All desperate to cling to life, the frays of a existence they had never truly experienced, but this one… this one was different. Recollections like a calm stream that appeared peaceful, and gentle, hidden depths of passages and deadly currents. Drowning in memories of peace, a small child loved by parents. Well, and strong, playful amongst peers. Adjusted, and embracing, they liked to study. Released learning new things about the form, a doctor? No, no, if only the medical pursuit had been in such sacrifice. Small animals, rats that had wandered in from the field in winter, dogs desperate for affection, a toddler displaced from its parents, all… dissected. For curiosity. Amusement. Memories of peaceful façade, a partner, and children, normal. They had appeared so normal to outsiders, but the night their partner had wandered too far, followed them into the dark, to meet the same fate as pass victims. Some morbid curiosity that drove them into the depths, tested the rotation of joints, of muscles. Peeled back layers and layers of life, without a single remorse, and when met with your blade, the only parting regret it had confessed… was that it would never know what it would be like to fillet your complexion, nor determine how it was your body could move in a way that was foreign to its comprehension. The divulgence left you achy, nauseous. Trembling in your skin, as though a husk of chills up your spine that would never settle. Like a curse that you had been burdened with, clung to your back as you recounted the details to Ubuyashiki. The ill-ease clear on his features, formed at his brow. The delicate way he regarded, a knowing gaze one serene, and comforting. Allowed time off, the reassurance that you could take the time you needed to digest your experience, but in your parting, be left you with the advice that while the Demon Slayer Corps existed to eradicate demons, there are creatures in the flesh that appear as human as him and you.

The news of your league of absence had Mitsuri upon her arrival. The pass week spent dedicated to an objective of her own, her unique physical strength having met its necessity upon the mountains to retrieve a few mizunoto. In their desperation to survive an encounter, had caused a cave in, a decision that had effectively trapped the demon deeper in the cavern, and unintentionally themselves as a casualty. The arrival of their Kasugai Crows, clearly distressed, and demanding aide was their only saving grace. She had been dispatched immediately alongside a few kakushi members to offer support, medical assistance, and in severe cases, transport them to the Butterfly Estate. All in all, it had taken her some time to sort everything out. The travel, ensuring everyone had been retrieved as well as checking in on their wellbeing, she hadn’t the opportunity to return home, nor contact you. Updated only on your circumstances upon by the concerned kakushi who had grown fond of you, others merely only averting her gaze, and the occasional few whisperings amongst themselves. Ubuyashiki having provided her with what details he could, the melancholy smile that he had worn. Gentle, and concerned, he had complimented your gentle nature. This experience was necessary for you, he had known that--- the Love Hashira had as well, and yet, the unknowing of how you would come out of such a shattering encounter, was heavy.

                She had found you on the tatami mat, your hair matted in odd forms. Eyes weary, and down casted. Averted, and struggling to meet her gaze, nor those of the servants of the Kanroji mansion that inquired about her wellbeing. The folds of your kimono disheveled, half put on, the small slips revealing that it had not been properly secured. Likely forced on by one of the servants who had attempted to care for you in the Love Hashira’s wake. Complexion drained, eyes that appeared sunken in, and colored with lack of sleep. Gaunt, the steady of your breathing the only comfort she had, the reassurance that you were still living despite your appearance. Cheek pressed against the tatami mat, eyes that neither responded, nor traced the lining of the floor. Unresponsive to the way she ahd kentl over you, traced your cheek, pushed back your bangs. Delicately patted your hair, devoid of reaction. Heavy, the caretakers of her home having accompanied her, informing Mitsuri of how long you had laid there. The worry that perhaps, you were waiting for her causing a lump in her throat. The knowledge you had stayed in this state for a quite some time, often returning escorted back by the support of others, heavy, and tired. Exhaustion, beckoning you to long naps regardless of the day, meals that had been refused time after time. Nutrients only sustained by those that had pushed and prodded, refused to leave you be until you had swallowed at least one bite, loyal to their master. Aware the despair Mitsuri would face upon her arrival. The press of her forehead against yours, the pressure eliciting the smallest waver of your eyelashes. The dirt of prior days, likely remainders of your encounter in the field. The realization burdening her heart, weighing heavily and dropping her heart as she struggled to breathe. The tears that threatened to fall as the comprehension settled into her heart. The small in breath rattling your bones, the clear embarrassment that crossed your features as your arms tucked against your sides, all too aware how long it had been since you had bathed. Shame that pillowed across your features, drawing inwards. Recoiling within yourself, protective and humiliated at your state. Threatened to break the Love Hashira, her hand pulling back to offer reassurance. All too aware that you did not wish for her to see you this way, for her to touch her as she had. To know you this way.

                Mitsuri’s eyebrows met firmly, the pout of her lips as she nodded to herself. Turning and peeking over shoulder. The catch of cherry blossomed kissed hair that gave way to jade that caught the air as she did so. Her voice, warm and soothing as she took command of her household. Servants that felt her affections, and understood their assignments. The life she captivated, pressed into the home. Warm, and direct, the stipulation they desperately needed. Scurrying in different directions, tossing decorum to the side as they set to work. Two members quick on their feet, headed to the kitchen to prepare dinner, the detailed account their Lady Kanroji had given their guide to ensure your favorite meal was produced properly. Three members sent to the storage building, instructed to secure heavy blankets that would typically be reserved for the winter months. The weight, she had expressed, you would need the extra weight, the pressure likely to provide some much-needed comfort. One to summon a fresh kimono for you, informed of your favorite scent to mask upon the fabric in the hopes it would be soothing to your senses. To warm your body in a way that she could not, but prayed it would offer all the incentive you may need. The remainder, left to gather the necessary materials to construct a bath. Imparting details of your favorite color, of bath scents that she had stored away—although it shamed her to admit that she had intended their use for a different use, Mitsuri did not hesitate to utilize them now. Why wait for a special night, when you needed her now.

You needed her.

The water was warmed. Drawn against bubbles that filled the bath, the stray floating to the ceiling. The bucket of water before you. Arms tucked shyly to your sides, doing your best to cover your form as you sat awkwardly on the stool. Too worn from your days, heart far heavier than you could endure. The abundance of sleep had not account for the malnourishment that was beginning to occur within your body. The servants easily spiriting you away to the bath. Mitsuri’s warm hands, delicate as she regarded you. Her words soothing as a prayer, informative as she whispered knowledge to you. Dared to scrub at the intrusive thoughts. The distant worries of human life. If mercy was possible, of what monstrosities lurked beneath the surface. If you were the same. At times, Mitsuri expressed what it was she was doing as she untied the knot at your waste, slipped the kimono from your shoulders. The sweet whispers, one of warm and reassurance. Fumbling to form words, any words that would reassure you of her devotion as she sat you the stool. Your back to her, your eyes left to stare at the wood paneling of the room. Warm scents that clung to your nose. The child the demon had claimed in life, the small dog. The press of a soft bath, nurturing and caringly pressed to your sides. The splash of the bucket, Mitsuri’s hands wringing excess water as she rolled the cloth over your shoulders, scrubbed your back. Whispered soothing words of reassurance. Stilled herself to remove any proof of the past few days from your features. To care for you in your neglect. Curiosity, how could such curiosity have been born? How could, how could another human do such a thing to another? Love, she loved you with everything she had, and as only the way the Love Hashira could, wanted to prove it in every aspect of the word. The embarrassment of your state, as your head pressed against your shoulder, leaned forward. Wanting nothing more to hide from her embrace. Their partner. Their devoted. Someone who had shared their life. With a monster. The touch of her fingers against your hair. Warm Safe. Home. Their partner had thought they were safe… that they were loved too. The lather of soap against your hair, delicately folding over matted tangle. Sacrifice of self, far too willing to give of herself to care for you. Tender as the grazes of her hair against her scalp. They had looked for them, cried out for them in the night. Cared for them when they wandered. The water comforting, breathing life in you that you had forgotten. Encouraged into the bath. Knees pressed to your chest as you breathed in the familiar scents. Displaced romantic, the distant memories of bath salts used in intimate moments, touched across your memories. They tore their partner up. Dissected them. Curiosity? H-How? Warm embraces, and tight hugs. Life, life that was warm. That was real. That cared. That sacrificed. The way Mitsuri’s fingers cautiously worked at the knots in your hair. Unweaving strand after strand, offering no hint of frustration.  Their child. CHILD. Their own blood, loved and cared for. Raised and nurtured. Limb from limb. Never revealing a shred of disappointment, or disgust. The smile tender as you dared to peek over your shoulder at her. The bashful shade of pink as the touch of her cheeks, willing herself to ignore how the fettering of her fingers across your skin captivated her hearts. Pretended it did not affect her in such a way as she dedicated herself to caring for you. The touch of lavish stones in her heart braided tightly and secured into a bun, the sleeves of her kimono drawn to work. The birth mark dots under her large eyes, all the beauty of a green hydrangea and as warm as spring, reflected across the bath water. Drifting only to meet your eyes, the smile she offered you, verification of her devotion.

                Time. Time would heal this wound, of your heart; she knew this as true as the sky and as real as the love she held for you. As did you, time would sooth the memories. Fade the nausea in your stomach. Her touch comforting, hushing your anxiety. The hush whisper of concern, if perhaps there were love in the world, laid to rest under her fingertips. Disturbing the dark thoughts that held you captivated. Disrupting their presence, anchoring her love to your form. Whispering reassurance of lovers, of safety, of presence of a home. In the world. Yes, time would heal the wounds her affections could not touch. The solidify of your bond, clear as the bubbles that warmed your skin, danced scents across your soul The love and dedication tender and soothing across your scalp as she worked wordlessly to care for your hair. Yes, time would heal this wound, and perhaps was the only thing that could ever hope to dare, but the touch of her fingers against your scalp. The soft hum of a song you did not know as you leaned into her touch. Warmth memories of love, of safetydaring to breathe lief back into your bones. The weight of your heart still heavy, embraced by love, and for once you could not help but wonder… if that was okay. To be loved. To be cared for. To be accepted in the dredge of your soul, to have someone who cared enough. To know you as you are, in the deeps of shame you dared not to reveal to another. Perhaps, perhaps this was proof enough of mercy. Of love. Something as simple, as the love of a hum, and the comfort of your bones as you breathed in her touch. Left only to savor the delicate weave of your hair free from neglect, and enfolded in love. Accepted. Treasured.

                Loved.

                Safe.

                Human.

[o5-10]

({I have decided I will post this. I ask that this remain out of game knowledge, for the most part, Ten's misunderstanding is so important to me. Note that this is incredibly long.

This is a good summary of it in images though:

This is it reacting to more or less the same thing at each stage of the poisoning.

Also note that its clothes get both more disheveled and less intricate over time.

Rundown of the Chaos Insurgency's assassination attempt against O5-10 "Janus" in the latter quarter of 2018:

Motive was a combination of injured feelings because Ten posted a Fail Comp as well as taking Ten claiming (on the old blog) that someone could not harm it physically, mentally, or emotionally as a challenge.

006 and security measures made physical attack unrealistic to meaningfully achieve, which left psychological means.

Note that while the Insurgency was planning, they only had what Ten said publicly and the rumors about it that their spies heard to go off of, meaning the plan of attack had to be very broad-strokes as well as fairly gradual to avoid immediate detection. It was set to take multiple doses over multiple weeks.

These started off fairly simple, throwing the brain into disarray by causing it to overproduce and/or underproduce neurochemicals, and progressing to more complex effects that would effect any given recipient differently as each cog was added. Madhavan did not know what it would do to Ten, just that by the final dose, it would be either unable to maintain upkeep of its body, be psychologically incapable of consistently maintaining its duties, or become so complacent that it'd be liable to get swayed by "helpful advice". They were, in part, relying on the known perfectionism and isolation to enable this to go on undetected. They did, eventually, try to start pushing the slow breakdown further with information picked up from the blog.

Liu spent some time building rapport with Nina, bonding over commonalities. After a while, he started mentioning a worker named Hazmi (Manchurian agent), and his concerns. Eventually, she was asked to help, and given reasons she needed to be present, resulting in her kidnapping and subsequent slapdash brainwashing into a short-term Manchurian agent, handed the cognitohazardous paperwork under the pretenses that they were from O5-6 directly and were classified between him and Ten.

Now, the way this ended playing out was first Ten started getting more and more agitated and quick to snap on even those they were usually okay being around and there was an uptick in nightmares, leading to more sleep deprivation.

Over time, the sleep deprivation lead to passing out, an inability to focus their vision, and physical effects. This progressed to their hands shaking, being unable to read expressions accurately (registering smiles as neutral, neutral as angry, etc.). This notably lead to an instance of passing out and causing a nosebleed, which freaked it out very badly and contributed to the resultant Cotard's delusion, which has stuck, however inconsistently.

The sleep deprivation and their predispositions lead to them eventually struggling to stick to personal projects and forgetting them as well as an uptick in paranoia and the assumption they had messed up, this got to the point that they believed they may be executed for so much as thinking about the fact that Gino existed. They also began to get decision paralysis more often. Their ability to reason was greatly impacted, especially in matters regarding fear-related emotions.

There came a point where it started psychologically regressing, acting more in line with what they were like when freshly promoted, more overtly optimistic and showing a high degree of respect in more conventional ways.

The sleep deprivation eventually hit the point that it could not support its own weight anymore. When it got, but did not put its eyes on, the final dose, the sleep deprivation had gotten so bad that it had a seizure, much to Six's dismay. After this point, Ten faked its death to keep the Insurgency complacent while things got sorted out on their end.

Note that we didn't have planned who'd intervene initially, and I had contingencies just in case. Regardless, by late October, it had gotten to the point that multiple entities who know it, notable Four and O5verthinking, had started trying to get a feel for how far gone it had become.

Through all of this, Ten worsened their own situation by a staunch refusal to even consider taking a break, sometimes at points leaning on their work as salvation from the problems they were experiencing. The various mood changes, from agitation to regression, were not consistently present at all. Unchecked, they would have absolutely literally worked themself to death at this point.

Now, Ten noticed the regressions, and so did others, but what it thought they were was some alternate self that had been implanted, and it demanded to know more from Madhavan, who used this as a chance to get information on the effects, saying that these things (implanted personalities) are highly variable and not meant to be disgusting, necessarily. Ten still thinks this is very likely what happened, as it lacks evidence to the contrary. It's also had to change a lot in the aftermath, due to the influence of those around it.

Notable, in DJ's case, the motive is something else, but I've not figured out what, and the progression did not get anywhere near as far as it did with Ten, though the paranoia was very present. It didn't hit the same levels of regression, but that's a lot of where it's reflexive referring to its current colleagues as "sir" comes from (though it was only seen to do this with Heretic). Much to consider.})

[alarrytale]

I’ve been studying to become a therapist and one of the first things I’ve been told is that therapy doesn’t work for everyone and isn’t necessarily a cure for someone. Louis never said he opposed therapy. It sounded like it doesn’t work for him. He did take his sister to therapy and rehab, even took her to Egypt for intensive rehab. He also paid for therapy and rehab for that xfactor contestant when he was one of the judges. Lottie has made it clear that therapy helps her and that’s great but again it’s not for everyone. Louis is often in touch with his emotions openly and has teared up many times while performing on stage so that’s not apart of a lad image at all if we’re going to stereotype. He’s also said in Interviews he’s not afraid to cry. Louis is very emotionally expressive when he sings Saturdays also. I was happy to see he included that song during his longer set. Louis must really love that song or has formed an attachment to it because he really lets it all out during singing that song especially. I noticed he does have some of his previous little mannerisms peeking thru more and more these days too. I saw his popped hip make an appearance a few times in these performances recently. Made me smile that he was feeling at least a little more relaxed. It’s good to keep in mind though that we really don’t know Louis. We don’t know how he’s feeling or handling his grief & trauma, nor should we as fans. He could be trying therapy now for all we know. We don’t know how often he drinks outside of the public eye either. So to say he’s handling his grief thru drinking, etc seems like it’s just not our place as outsiders to judge. I do remember Louis losing a lot of weight during the time he must’ve learned his mom was ill til her passing so that was very visible at the time. Dangerously skinny from a few pics. If I remember correctly they even wrote an article about his thin appearance and fans concerns for him. I think Louis is one to see the glass 1/2 full always but in reading some previous interviews and even the article with Lottie yesterday I got the sense that he feels the need to take care of others, just as Lottie does. Emotionally that’s a heavy weight to bear, but I think the optimism thought process does keep him on more of an even keel.

Hi, anon!

I hope Louis at least has tried therapy, before deciding it's not for him. Or that he goes from time to time. I think it should be mandatory for people in the spotlight, people who went from rags to riches, closeted celebrities and people who worked under SC to get help dealing with the pressure, the supression of yourself, the mistreament and having to deal with a shitty, corrupt industry who boycotts you.

I personally think Louis would greatly benefit from therapy. He's lost his mother figure, who he used to tell everything, he heavily relied on his vocal coach (Helene) as a life coach and motivator, and as a confidence supplier. He's got a friend clinging to him wherever he goes and acts as a comfort goat to him. I have never seen anyone more in need of therapy actually. He should be getting professional help. I'm pretty sure Oli's advice to Louis would be to blaze up to forget and repress stuff more. He can't move on until he deals with his issues. He's been pretty stagnant for years now. He's still super nervous before shows. He still relies on liquid curage to do his job, and his stoner brain is affecting his performance. He also acts uncaring about his health and appearance at times and that's concerning.

I don't care what anyone says, Louis would benefit from therapy. He needs to be told he's not responsible for his siblings, he needs to be told he's good enough and make a plan to be less reliant on his bad coping mechanisms and get some healthier ones. He needs to want to do this for himself though, and it shouldn't be forced, but he would benefit from it, i'm sure. It won't fix everything, but he needs to start somewhere.

I also think it's important to distinguish between having an alcohol issue that's born out of surpressed emotions due to trauma vs. not having an issue, but you’re promoting alcohol as something cool to your fanbase and using it to enforce an image. If it's the first he's not to be judged, i just want him to get help. If it's the second, then i take issue with that. If it's the first, masked as the second, then that's enraging and i blame his team. Regardless if it's the first or second option he's promoting it, even if it's unintentional, and i'm just not down with that. I'm not liking what i'm seeing.

[dr-lizortecho]

A collection of Echo centric fics (if your echo fic or favorite isn’t on here feel free to send me a link so I can add it to my bookmarks!)

General Audiences

Today’s Milkshake by @tasyfa (183 words)

Summary: With Max’s secret out -not being a big fan of mint- Liz sets out to determine what flavor of milkshake he actually enjoys.

Rec: This fic however concise really captures the playful and loving side of Liz. Focuses in on her love of science and the structure it comes with, in a light hearted and warm way that doesn’t usually get depicted in fic. It captures a short and sweet moment between the two of them that displays exactly how well their personalities complement each other.

Content Warnings: no archive warnings apply, Max as a science experiment (alright, ik I’m not funny, sorry guys)

A Milkshake and a Sweater Conundrum by @aflawedfashion (525 words, Isobel Evans & Max Evans with mentioned Liz Ortecho/Max Evans)

Summary: Isobel needs fashion advice, and her brother is the last person who could actually help. But in the wake of his recent resurrection he’s the one place she wants to go. To her surprise she finds him drinking a Little Green Man.

Rec: Even though Liz isn’t in this one it really does show how much Max is hung up on her. Using the milkshake as a vehicle for him to discuss those feelings with Isobel.

Content Warnings: no archive warnings apply

Coda by @wunderlass (618 words, canon divergent)

Summary: alternate ending to 4x13, Liz holds onto Max for a little while longer, before making a life altering decision.

Rec: This fic really takes the final moment of the series and allows it to breathe. And in doing so it breathes life back into both Liz and Max, allowing their characters to continue to make complex decisions. Specifically allowing Liz to have what she wants while opening up endless possibilities for her, something she has been striving for her entire life. The choice also allows her to keep one last promise to Max, one of the very foundational pieces of their relationship, back from when she refused to kiss him the very first time. As for Max it allows him not to make yet another sacrifice for the alleviation of guilt.

Content Warnings: 4x13, no archive warnings apply

Where I follow, you’ll go by @thesquidkid (1.605 words, AU, all human)

Summary: Liz is a researcher who happens to be in Roswell for a science convention. Max is a writer passing through Roswell on a road trip to inspire his next novel. The universe interferes, and they collide. Not once, but twice.

Rec: It really captures the heart of their dynamic in a less straightforward sense. Instead this story relies on the narration to paint a scene, one full of contradictions and facts. How some would claim fate, and others mere coincidence. Which draws from the very thing that brings Echo together not once but three times throughout the show. The very thing Max noted in his farewell letters in season three. In a way it captures their different perspectives on their relationship. Max’s more poetic, Liz’s more realistic. (Truly it holds the same theme the show runners depicted in the song choice of Superposition)

Content Warnings: no archive warnings apply

We were once upon a time in love by @thesquidkid (2.665 words)

Summary: Liz gifts Max with a challenge, one she knows he will both be delighted and distraught about. For his Christmas present she will buy anything from the local Barnes & Noble, under specific and difficult conditions of course.

Rec: This fic really captures their physicality, how they move in tandem and seem to occupy the same space naturally. Both Max and Liz being more than tactile throughout. It also has casual everyday uses of telekinesis which isn’t something a lot of Echo/Max fics incorporate. Most of all though, it shows Liz doting on and having fun with Max’s nerdier side. Depicting them at their softest while allowing the same light teasing their more domestic scenes in season three and season four had.

Content Warnings: no archive warnings apply

Becoming Ortecho by @ajna-eye-cogitations (4.891 words, WIP)

Summary: Max goes to ask for Arturo’s blessing, but when he suffers a heart attack Max has to kick into action. Once Arturo knows the alien secret he starts asking questions, one’s Max doesn’t have the answers to. And in an attempt to prove he is worthy of wielding Arturo’s name, deserving of his daughter, and not some freak of nature, Max sets out on a journey of self discovery.

Rec: The narration is beautiful, weaving a story inside of Max’s head gloriously. Tapping into his feelings of love and guilt and adding meaning to each action he takes. The story has Liz for just a short span of time in the latest chapter, but their connection was effortless, Max aware of her without his senses online. Liz stepping in to play negotiations between Max and Arturo, as well as biting her tongue as not to break her father’s heart shortly after his injury.

Content Warnings: fatal heart attack, discussions of religion, no archive warnings apply

Blueprints for a Great Escape by @myrmidryad (29.505)

Summary: Max spends time researching dungeons and dragons after he and Liz watch Stranger Things. Which leads to him going through a research spiral. So Liz gathers the podsquad and Team Human together for a campaign as his birthday gift.

Rec: It captures Max’s angsty nerd persona so well, while also allowing him to be the damsel in distress (to Rosa and Isobel’s teasing that is). Echo’s dynamic feels so lived in throughout, homely and warm like the decor of Max’s house.

Content Warnings: no archive warnings apply

Teen and Up Audiences

Change by The_Young_Wolf (250 words)

Summary: Max’s POV of seeing Liz for the first time in a decade.

Rec: It really drives home how much Max can get into his own head, especially in regards to his attempts to help people (by joining the force). But in showing how stuck he can be in, it really opens up how far gone he was for Liz from the start. Shedding a bright light on how affected he was by her presence, even after a decade apart.

Content Warnings: no archive warnings apply

no grief or folly ventures by @haloud (1.535 words, season three au)

Summary: After their victory over Jones, Liz gets a quiet moment to just be with Max. To contemplate him and their relationship, everything that led up to them being able to share this moment.

Rec: The physicality is easily reminiscent of their sex scene from 1x13, while maintaining the softness and gentle touches of 2x10. The narration reads like poetry, weaving story and emotions together flawlessly. Allowing Liz to reminisce on their shared history, the mistakes and victories that made them themselves, while depicting exactly how much of an eternal mark they’ve left on each other. And how much more they have left to do.

Content Warnings: no archive warnings apply

Love the Very Blood of You by soldierwitch (13.304 words, AU)

Summary: Set in an alternate universe where Max was adopted separate of Michael and Isobel, growing up apart from them and never having been reunited by fate. He goes through life without ever becoming fully connected to Earth or it’s inhabitants. All while Liz struggles through the highs and lows of supporting and propping up her sister, helping Rosa get clean time and time again. Their paths cross one fateful night in a hospital. Max a priest attending a bedside, Liz a sullen family member awaiting news.

Rec: This AU keeps both characters so well intact it’s beautiful. With Max taking up the priesthood for the very same reasons he joined law enforcement, to help people in hopes it will ease the guilt that weighs him down. All while Liz keeps her frayed edges and distrustful nature, though she didn’t lose Rosa, she faces the same wearying journey year in and year out in regards to Rosa’s addiction. They both meet in this space that’s been carefully constructed and orchestrated to depict both of their struggles and fears as characters. One made to depict and pull to light all the spinning questions and possibilities thrown so casually between them in season one, about religion and the universe. It also makes a point of maintaining that original draw between them, Max finding Liz magnetic and Liz finding him a mystery to be solved.

Content Warnings: no archive warning apply, drug addiction, blasphemy, religious content

Heart of Lightning: A Roswellian Tale by @suzteel (20.095 words, AU medieval)

Summary: Ser Elizabeth Ortecho is sent by her queen to retrieve King Maxwell’s heart from a dragon. The first step in her decade long journey to waking her sister from a curse.

Rec: This au does a lot to display how both Max and Liz are leaders in their own rights. Warriors and lovers to their very cores. It shows Max’s anger and how quickly it can light, while depicting how easily he trusts and relies on Liz, putting his faith and surety in her above all else. While showing Liz’s quick thinking, and determination. The whole story following Liz as she becomes willing to unlock the cage around her heart so she and Max can build something together.

Content Warnings: violence, non-consensual mind control

Mature

Cowboy Take Me Away by @wunderlass (960 words, smut)

Summary: Max returns home to Liz in a playful mood, she decides to prance about in his cowboy hat and loot his work belt.

Rec: This really nails home a sense of saftey and surety in their dynamic. Cause yes it’s smut, and yes it’s rough, but the start and end really do a great job of depicting those as pleasures. Something they can take part in after a long day, both having removed their armor so they can be fully seen.

Content Warnings: explicit sexual content, bondage

Blanco Navidad by @ajna-eye-cogitations (2.336 words, smut)

Summary: Liz reminisces about childhood as she prepares the same cookies she, Arturo, and Rosa used to make during the Christmas season. But after she sends Arturo to bed she’s all alone in the kitchen, till Max shows up with the promise of a memorable night.

Rec: This fic really captures Liz’s almost wistful side, the pieces of her drawn to memory and attachment to the past. While showing her in a place where those memories can be beautiful again instead of just full of pain and regret. The way the memories are interwoven with desert imagery is stunning, the narration building a world that comes to life with each new emotion she feels.

Content Warnings: explicit sexual content, no archive warnings apply

Crash Into Me by @wunderlass (2.948 words, canon divergent au, smut)

Summary: Set after Liz learns the truth about Rosa. Max has secluded himself outside of town to keep from causing another blackout. Isobel sends Liz after him, hoping she can curb is anxiety and maybe calm him down.

Rec: This story really allows Liz’s betrayal to breathe, while examining the complex feelings she has towards Max. Because those didn’t fade or twist when she learned he loved his sister as much as she loved hers. The conversation and physicality is weaved together with storm imagery that serves to keep in mind what’s at risk. While creating an ‘electric’ atmosphere.

Content Warnings: no archive warnings apply, explicit sexual content

Choler by soldierwitch (14.576 words, canon divergent, WIP)

Summary: Their relationship is fractured post resurrection. Liz having been scarred again, left behind with no warning or understanding. Leaving her spinning and creating a new form of armor over her heart. All while clinging to Max and pushing him away all at the same time. For fear of losing him, for memory of losing him.

Rec: Liz’s internal dialogue is flawless, it allows her character to feel the complex emotions and wants and anger that should follow such a traumatic event. Closely examining what she might have meant in their 2x13 breakup about ‘trying to find where you end and I begin’ and ‘I love you and right now I hate it’. But it does more than that, it shows all the small moments that lead up to that break, allows her the complexities the show only ever hinted towards. All tied together with symbolism and physicality. It really examines how much their relationship is forever imprinted by their mistakes but Max and Liz get to choose to love each other anyway.

Content Warnings: no archive warnings apply, depression, sexual content, so much angst and it’s not completed so take that as you will

State of Love and Trust by @wunderlass (18.188 words, canon divergent)

Summary: After Max’s resurrection his memory is wiped, leaving him a husk. But Isobel and the rest of the squad have prepared for this, for the inevitable supercharge he will be coming back with, the urge of destruction and chaos. Max’s fears of killing them not being taken lightly. And no matter how much Isobel and Alex protest and push back against, Liz won’t let herself be far off when Max comes to. She’s his connection to life and humanity after all.

Rec: The entire cast is allowed to be exhausted and grieving for the entire start, showing their cracked and frayed edges. Liz in particular is allowed the space to worry and mourn, even as Max breathes on the other side of the glass. Her self reliance shines through beautifully in an ensemble piece, that’s built around her complex feelings and wants. There’s storm imagery and mystery, tapping into that same vein of magic season one seemed to hold over the viewer, each new piece of the puzzle bringing more questions. But it’s the physical aspects and the way they’re drawn by something almost primal to each other in the end. Max incapable of truly hurting Liz, not once he’s connected enough to feel her, remember her.

Content Warnings: no archive warnings apply, violence, light horror aspects, explicit sexual content, dubious consent

Explicit

Inside Me by @suzteel (313 words, smut)

Summary: Things take a turn during sex, and Liz is of course going to examine that while letting pleasure wash over her.

Rec: Alien strangeness is why the show has appeal, and this really nails home how little we know about their sex lives in reference to alien biology. It also keeps in mind Liz and Max’s penchant for getting it on despite… literally anything.

Content Warnings: explicit sexual content, no archive warnings apply

No Plan by treaddelicately (1.571 words, smut)

Summary: They’re horny morons in love, with pesky public sex kinks, which of course leads to Liz crowding Max against a wall during his break at the Pony.

Rec: Liz’s confidence is flawless, the way she knows how much power she wields over Max and uses it to her advantage is amazing. While Max does what he does best, buckles under the force of her wind.

Content Warnings: explicit sexual content, no archive warnings apply

beneath this bowl of stars by sabrinachill (2.897 words, canon divergent, smut)

Summary: Liz is restless post resurrection, she doesn’t know Max’s secrets yet, but when their psychic connection brings him- or rather an astral projection of him into her bed things take a sexy turn.

Rec: The narration really builds a picture of what Liz knows and doesn’t know, allowing her scientific mind to reel. But mostly it examines how their armor is fully removed, how the darkness seems to crack them open bare. Both Liz and Max allowing themselves to get close and want what they want. It works well because it doesn’t rely on Max’s logical decision making to have him pull away, both of them convincing themselves it isn’t real on some strange level.

Content Warnings: explicit sexual content, dubious consent, no archive warnings apply

Truly Madly Deeply by circular_infinity (6.092 words, canon divergent, smut)

Summary: Their first time having sex is planned -though they get a little bit out of hand, abandoning the plan in favor of just jumping each other’s bones.

Rec: The communication is flawless, them both asking the right questions in the sexiest ways. Because though they’re both consumed by lust and just allowing the moment (or rather moments) to envelop them, they’re forever conscious it’s something they’re doing together. Both Max and Liz are purposeful in their communication, allowing full consent to be given without ever breaking the action and lust. Both characters come to life flawlessly, echoing their canon selves in their desire and recklessness. Also, peak filth just seems to naturally exist between them, Max able to weave dirty talk like poetry and Liz able to make control and lack of control something that can exist in tandem.

Content Warnings: explicit sexual content, unprotected sex, no archive warnings apply

When I Say “Forever” it’s the Goddamn Truth by @maeglinthebold (7.829 words, fluff and smut)

Summary: Max and Liz go on vacation, exploring Europe together and separately.

Rec: Their playful banter is beautifully depicted throughout, both of them smiling and happy. Finally getting to experience the world together like they’d dreamed of as kids. The story weaves together that exploration with their differences, Max spending time in museums while Liz is at a science convention for example. But it also depicts how those differences bring them together and their genuine fondness for those aspects of each other. While characterizing them flawlessly, with Liz ready to make a sharp witty crack at any moment and take control. While Max is willing to ramble about anything he’s learned and try anything Liz wants to try.

Content Warnings: explicit sexual content, no archive warnings apply

[tiredassmage]

🖊️ for whoever you’re having the most brainworms about right now :) (-justiceforc3po from main)

Send me a “🖊+an OC“ and I will talk about that OC!

Thank you so much! Going to take this open invitation to be a little unwell about the au for Rhyst that is making the brain worms really dance and jiggle lately.

First, a brief touch on Rhyst as he is in 'canon' - my main Jedi Knight, a Shadow, someone who does not enjoy that the Republic and the Order forge him more and more into a warrior and who quickly finds some strain in seeing so first-hand several of the Republic's failures. The mantle of 'hero' hangs heavy and he never asked for it, never sought such high stakes or praise. He struggles in the end to hold fast to his own advice (to use a few lines from my ever beast under the floorboards Ziost fic that I could not top if I tried to summarize him): "...It won’t be easy. But nothing about this ever was.” He offered her a hand. “We would not be Jedi if we did not continue to try. Will you come with us?”

Rhyst tickles my brain because he struggles far more than I think he ever lets on, or even his story lets on. And part of it is his support network; the very people he relies on, that hold him up, also, unfortunately, play an unintentional hand in some of his burdens. Generally, I list these people in his main story as Kira and Savosta. To be clear, they mean perfectly well. In short, though, a lot of the people Rhyst is close to are also people that share in some level of the idolization of him as the Hero of Tython. They've seen his strengths and it's inspired them, so when they speak of that inspiration, Rhyst tends to listen and offer gentle smiles. He has a very difficult time naming that as part of what worries him and wears on him because he knows of their intentions and he values that it helped them, even if he doesn't necessarily believe as they do that all of his deeds are worthy of such praise as tends to be given to him. He is no model of the Jedi, he thinks, but so many have placed similar accolades upon his shoulders.

[This is already getting really long and there's more specific Knight spoilers I'd like to get into, so throwing in a cut here. Spoilers for mainly the transition between Chapters 2 & 3 of the Knight origin and what follows, essentially.]

Rhyst does keep fighting for the Republic and the Jedi for a very long time; he becomes... a bit resigned to this role as a warrior that isn't exactly what he wanted out of his duties, nor does he feel he is their strongest. But it's what they need him to be, where they say he can help, so he dutifully accepts their pleas for aid and their askance of him to fight among the troops. More and more does he find himself suffocated in the armor of a trooper and less and less in the robes so common among the Order - particularly their scholars, diplomats, and learners.

Which is. already a lot. I do not talk about him enough, but he's such an interesting character to me, actually. There's a lot about him that's hidden that I didn't quite notice on first pass either. I do have to thank @hyrohkaah for a lot of that, hehe, essentially my #1 fanclub member, I say, of Rhyst and Savosta, so I got to actually dig through how they tick when talking about them.

So. The AU. Shorthand SithAU, but more an exploration of like... the conceptual premise that what if the Warrior storyline as what happens to the Knight during Vitiate's control of them in Chapter Two [which, brief side note, I cannot remember for the life of me where I first encountered this idea, if it was another post or if it was trigged by just... a series of posts and discussions etc, or if it just... stumbled out of the woods of my brain one day and now I'm finally doing something with it], and then I got running with myself and it grew sort of into its own beast.

If the original events as they play out more canon to the Knight story is what it looks like when Rhyst can reconnect with and rely, somewhat, on his main support network in his crew, his former Masters Maltaf Orathuse and Satia Lerann, then the ~Sith AU is sort of... what happens when that initial reconnect, even, isn't there. Because not that Rhyst is ever given a whole lot of time to really figure himself out in the wake of everything, considering the war on and the urgency of thwarting Vitiate's plans, but... what if less of that.

Because Rhyst does have a lot of uncertainties about his place in the Order, the direction the Republic is taking given all the weapons projects he watched fail, etc... and that's always a very large part of what Vitiate uses against him there.

So, what if, eventually, Vitiate's control stuck long enough, and the Sith re-training to focus on emotions as a source of power, to moreso feed into them and stew with them rather than sit with them to understand and find new takeaways for learning stuck... And with Scourge absent, what more fun a ploy against the Jedi than to turn one of their poster Knights into his own right hand, perhaps even a new Wrath?

After a bit of a kolto soak and some... repairing of the damage from that ill-fated Strike Team visit to the Fortress, of course.

And that, in short, is the premise which we work off of! As a Sith then, Rhyst settles first as something of a hunting dog, an efficient warrior Vitiate can assign to strike against his enemies, to taunt the Republic in an idle gesture to support the Empire's war - except his latest project is and isn't ever particularly recognized as part of the Empire's forces, given Vitiate's secrecy [and, as we learn later, his interest in other projects]. Ultimately, Rhyst becomes the keeper of Vitiate's secrets - a guardian of artifacts and ritual knowledge as well as an assassin for the Emperor in seclusion.

Kira takes over the hunt for the rest of the Jedi Strike Team and a way to stop Vitiate's plans with Lord Scourge in the meantime, but, eventually, the one to strike at Vitiate is still Rhyst - with Caolan!!! Who is. a whole other ramble, blorbo from friend's brain, etc etc belonging to enabler @hyrohkaah again and simply I'm in love w/Caolan but. but. that's liable to get me off topic. But, in an attempt to keep it short, Caolan has similar 'Vitiate's project a little off the leash and slightly to the left' syndrome and they become 'do not separate' about it.

The interlude years then are spent with Caolan on the hunt for lingering specters of Vitiate's influence in the galaxy. Rhyst is... unclaimed by either major power in the aftermath. While his style is not entirely Sith, it definitely more heavily and openly relies upon dark side tendencies somewhat informed by his previous Jedi training. He'd self-identify as a Dark Side user, but not particularly affiliated with the Sith. He's still too much of an ex-Jedi to be claimed by the Empire and, of course, the suspicion that he struck at their former Emperor does little to win him potential favor (not that he seeks it) on that side of the metaphorical galactic fence.

And then his reasons for avoiding return to the Jedi Order are somewhat two-fold; Rhyst is still driven deeply by a sense of duty. Vitiate became so certain of his control over him - and, eventually, Rhyst's genuine give to servitude to this master - that he's one of the few in the galaxy to know some of the former Emperor's trickier secrets. He knows just enough to be dangerous - even if only as a nuisance in the grand scheme of matters (to speak to the retreat to Wild Space and Zakuul), enough to make Vitiate seek his other avenues as Valkorian. That sense of duty drives him to act on this knowledge. Returning to the Jedi would delay this, he thinks. They would offer something like redemption and Rhyst has... again, essentially, resigned himself to his fate, his new purpose, this new flavor of his life. He is not exactly happy with what he has become, but it is... serviceable. And eventually accepting that with Caolan, helping each other through their own struggles with Vitiate's mark upon their lives, is... its own kind of freedom. It's their truth. It's honest to who they are and who they aim to be. It... accepts what was outside of their control and is permission to continue to be - that survival has no inherent moral value. And Rhyst will not tolerate either of them to be chained to dispassionate leaders again - not Vitiate as a manipulator and crafter of tools, and not the Jedi Council and Republic Senate as even well-meaning commanders of change and bickering definitions of "justice." He cannot abide by handing them over to shackles - literal or figurative - when they have a duty to stop Vitiate in his entirety to complete.

So, in a way... he comes to a lot more of an honest conclusion of self in this whole ordeal. In fighting alongside Caolan for their own directives, without that constant need to perform to a mold or an image that weighs upon them in the Jedi, Rhyst has a far easier time determining what's important to him and carving out those boundaries of what he is and isn't fighting for, what's important to him.

Which, of course, I can't leave well enough alone, so... naturally, when Lana Beniko and Theron Shan team up to investigate the Revanites and turn to investigating Imperial and Republic ghost stories alike about potentially a fallen Jedi or rogue Sith agents when they're short on allies among their own people... the narrative just has to catch back up to them and wrest away some of that little sliver of control over their own lives, and Rhyst may just have to reckon with both sides' expectations of him again after all. :3

[toocooltonotobsessover]

Ginny and Georgia: The Art of Subtle Storytelling

As with most everything, I got into Ginny & Georgia well after the train had not only passed but also dropped everyone off as well. I saw clips around all the time but convinced myself it was just a stupid show that didn't deserve the time. Then... I ran into Marcus' depression monologue on YouTube and that was the most relatable thing I'd heard from a TV show. So, I convinced myself to check out that episode (S2E8) to see what was going on with this stupid, cringy teen drama that somehow captured the experience of depression in less than two minutes. Needless to say, watching that episode piqued my interest in so many areas, I soon found myself watching the next episode, and when answers still weren't found, bouncing back to the start of the series. And now... here I am, three 6 days later (after admittedly finishing the series in only 3) still unable to stop thinking about the absolute gem that was Ginny & Georgia.

Obviously there will never be a piece of perfect media and there were certainly parts of the show that had me squeezing my eyes shut in second-hand embarrassment (*cough, cough* tap dancing *cough, cough*)... but there was also something so fundamentally powerful about it that had me continuously choosing "Next Episode" well past midnight. So, as I try to ride out my newfound obsession with this show I couldn't help finding myself wondering "What is it about Ginny & Georgia that is so addicting?" While I think many factors come in to play: the characters, the just wild enough to stretch our suspension of disbelief while also tame enough to be almost realistic plot, and the representation to name a few; but something that really caught my attention was the fact that the show-makers seem to have mastered the art of subtle storytelling.

Show, don't tell, I think is advice most people can attest to hearing at least a handful of times in their lives. It's a phrase so familiar it should be at the front of our minds whenever we set out to tell a story and while not always easy to write, how hard can it be when your form of media relies on visuals as with movies and TV shows? Apparently more of a challenge than you would expect, with many shows turning into bland info dumps rather than containing thoughtful expression of information. Oftentimes this is a cheap way of getting a point across but it creates very dry and unrealistic characters (because for the most part people do not talk by spitting a series of semi-connected essays at one another).

Anyway... I guess what I'm trying to get at is that the creators of Ginny & Georgia did not shy away from show over tell, in fact they thrived off of it. A storyline like Marcus' depression was not a sudden slap-in-the-face episode, explained off by a monologue backstory. Instead the seeds were planted earlier, way earlier, way back in season one when Ellen casually mentioned to Georgia that Marcus' had had a rough year... simple as that. And while we do find out that part of it is due to his friends death, there's still more to the story. Then when season two rolls around, subtle hints are sprinkled throughout the episodes prior to episode eight... Certain facial expressions (specifically noticeable in the Christmas episode), some tighter smiles than normal, some looks that are just a little off. And when the family returns from Vermont: casual conversation between Max and Ginny, picked up and dropped like regular conversation not over focusing on the fact that Marcus lied about how he spent his Christmas. But as an audience we start to pick up on these and when we reach episode eight it all makes sense.

Or another thing I love: Clint. The deaf representation again is thrown in, not as a big deal, just a fact of everyday life. You can believe the twins grew up with a deaf father with how casually they throw around sign language, even sometimes while among themselves. You can believe that Ellen has been married to Clint for a long time and been using sign language to communicate. But not only is the inclusion of sign super casual, something I also picked up on was the twins personalities. Sign language is not just about the hand signs, but full body expression: facial expressions, body language. Someone who has been signing all their life has that tendency towards physical expression, and if you watch any scene with Max it's clear the way she throws her whole body into talking. She has so much energy and her face is always super telling because she grew up with this being a large part of communication with her dad. On the flip side, Marcus is not quite as expressive, but he seems to have a sense for reading other people's body language, like he's used to living in a home where visual communication is more important than auditory communication.

This post focuses a lot on the Bakers because they 100% were my favorite family, but the same can be applied to many situations. Like how Abby's ED isn't super obvious, a few times she leaves for the bathroom and it's not made super obvious that she's leaving to vomit. We get to see glimpses of her struggles, but for the most part we're in the dark, just like most people in her life.

I don't know, maybe I'm just not exposed to the right shows a lot but this one really impressed me. It just felt super obvious how much time and work the cast and crew put into making the characters and storylines believable (well as believable as they can be in a TV show, lol)

So in conclusion... Ginny and Georgia season 3??? And what other gems of shows am I missing out on, lol

[babykentthegent]

High-Five Months Old

We're rapidly approaching Kent's first half year of life as he continues to grow faster than my morning race to the espresso machine. This last month has included a couple of firsts for little Kent, as his personality continues to blossom. He's truly one of the happiest little babies I've ever known, and that fact has yet to waiver as time marches on.

Kent had his 4-month check up in September where he got a whole cocktail of vaccines, and handled it like a champ. We have a great pediatrician which certainly makes things much easier. She advised that we wait to start feeding Kent solids until ~5 1/2 months. Hard to believe we're now only weeks away from this! When you become a new parent, you get a lot of unsolicited advice from people, so our mantra continues to be "we're just following what his doctor says". It's hard to argue with that.

Rob is now less than two weeks away from going back to work. We're a bit nervous since this means we'll a) be relying on others to care for him during the day and b) have to adjust to yet another major routine change. It's been so nice having them both home, especially since I work from home. Kent will be going to a nanny 3x per week and grandma/grandpa's house 2x per week. It's going to be so quiet here when this does finally happen. This'll be a big step for all of us!

October is one of my favorite months, for several reasons. It's my birthday, for one, but also because of all the fun Fall festivities. We took Kent to his very first pumpkin patch! I think he was more intrigued with the tractor than the pumpkins, but that's neither here nor there. We had fun as a family picking out the perfect pumpkins and the weather couldn't have been any better - a sunny, crisp, Fall day!

We had planned a trip down to my hometown to visit family and decided to make a stop at one of my favorite places - the cider mill. We got to drink fresh apple cider (blackberry apple cider to be exact), ate a fresh apple fritter, and got to show Kent several farm animals including goats, sheep, chickens, guinea pigs, and peacocks. He was extremely interested in the animals, which in turn brought me so much joy. Taking him on adventures, no matter how big or small, is by far one of our favorite things in the world.

While we were on our trip, Kent rolled over for the first time! I started crying, which in hindsight is hilarious. Never did I imagine myself sobbing over something like a baby rolling over, but I was just so grateful to be there to witness one of his firsts. It's been a big worry of mine since going back to work; that I'd miss out on all of his firsts. So this was an absolutely magical birthday gift he gave me.

Visiting with family was really nice. Kent got to see his grandpa, his great-grandma (GG), and his aunt and uncle. We even stopped to see his great aunt and uncle (not pictured) so we certainly got our fill of family time. It was such a nice way to spend my birthday and Kent did so good going along for the ride.

An additional bonus to our trip was visiting one of my dearest friends for her baby shower. Kent was the only boy at the party and boy was he popular! His face says it all...he likes the ladies! All the gals were passing him around the room and he had zero complaints. He never ceases to amaze me. A few days after our trip, Kent had another first and sadly not one we looked forward to. He got sick! Considering all the people we saw, I shouldn't be terribly surprised. I suppose on one hand, it's nice knowing his immune system is kicking into gear and his white blood cells are learning how to battle infections. We knew this day would come eventually and it's been tough to say the least. Seeing him sick is so heartbreaking, but we are managing the best we can and hoping to kick it soon. I type this as I take a sip of Theraflu. Yup - mama got it, too. All things considered, we have no regrets. It was bound to happen eventually.

We are about one week away from our final social worker visit and about one month away from the adoption being finalized. We felt like this day would never come and hope to have more to report in our next month's blog. Kent is by far our biggest joy in life. Being a parent is exhausting, and certainly not all rainbows and unicorns. All that to say, we wouldn't change it for the world! Our son is loved and has such a beautiful life ahead. We can't wait to see what kind of person he grows up to be. I'm betting he'll still be full of smiles 20 years from now and that he'll be a kind, loving, empathetic human. Stay tuned for next month's blog where we'll share our Halloween costumes, some more firsts, and hopefully more news on his adoption finalization. We're enjoying the parenthood ride so far, no matter how bumpy it gets. Happy October and thanks for reading!

[pkmnomegaverse]

AAA ok im curious since you posted that travel group pic. mirroring their other siblings, what is peyton and cereus' relationship like?

Me answering this half a year after you sent this ask but so it goes!

So admittedly the specifics of their relationships is still a work in progress, since Cereus was a later addition to this verse after I had made Micah/Jackie/Dylan Peyton’s main interaction partners. And Cereus as a whole needs some work. But what I’m leaning towards is unlike Aidan and Liliana who grow closer as time progresses due to traveling together (and Deni and Braxton who are still close cause they’re both like 10), Peyton and Cereus start out closer and then grow further apart with age. Although as Peyton grows apart with everyone as time progresses, this just follows the general theme of Peyton as “the distant hero.” Driven by the pursuit of his goals to the detriment of his personal relationship. It’s always seemed like a given to me that May and Brendan would make an effort to try and get their kids to be friends. Arranging playdates together, encouraging them to travel together when applicable, etc. So while Cereus is a bit younger than Peyton, they’re close enough in age where Brendan and May for sure would have pushed them to be friends. And while they’re children, they’re very much friends! Both are pretty outgoing and friendly overall, so they do get along well as a result. If asked, they would both say that the other was their best friend growing up, since while they both for sure had other friends, they were each other’s most consistent friend. Bff they saw the most. But there’s just enough of an age gap between them that Peyton starts his journey before Cereus. And once Cereus is able to start his own journey two years later, the seeds are set for Peyton to ultimately leave Hoenn.

Initially though, once Cereus is out traveling, he does get sort of roped into the Jackie/Micah/Dylan trio at times since Micah ends up taking him under his wing as a fellow coordinator. Giving him advice, showing him the ropes. Of course given Cereus’s parents, Cereus doesn’t necessarily need a ton of pointers per se, but he is trying to make it as a coordinator without relying on his parents (because let’s be real, Harley can and would pull strings and Cereus doesn’t want that). So if Cereus has questions, he goes to Micah (or sometimes Drew if he caves and asks one of his parents) since he feels Micah will be more unbiased and honest with him. And as a byproduct he sees and interacts with Peyton some as well.

As for once Peyton leaves Hoenn to travel the world on his “hero journey,” I don’t see Cereus taking Peyton’s absence as personally as some of the others do. They still sometimes talk but it’s one of those situations where as time passes, they talk less and less. Check up on what the other is doing through whatever social media each uses, but interaction past that decreases with time. However, they do always still have that base of “he was my best friend when I was a kid” to fall back on, so while they never stop being friends, they’re less close to each other once they’re both adults. Both have followed their own path and respect that about each other, even if their different paths mean they rarely see each other. When they do happen to see each other though, it’s pretty easy for them to reconnect. In some ways it’s like picking back up on where they left their friendship. So very much old friends. Perhaps if I ever figure out what Peyton does epilogue wise, I’ll have more of an opinion on how things progress past that, but for now that’s my general vibe on what their relationship is like.

[arcanepactguile]

OPEN STARTER — RED LIGHTS [ Valentino Muses ]

Grimacing, Alastor’s stubborn streak was fighting the losing battle; the very close proximity Valentino had invaded crossed the threshold which the Radio Demon determined just how close any one of the Vees could get near him. Concerning the moth pimp, the outer reaches of Pentagram City wasn't far enough. The borders of Heaven itself not good enough, either.

Not that the thespian had envisaged crossing paths with him more times than deemed necessary, the present total numbering a flat zero if his memory served him right, first impressions this time celebrated the businessman's professionalism in a jam, even if the esteemed member of the V clique had defused this current situation by tending to Alastor's unprovoked injury, a situation completely random as far as the stag understood it.

The moth was the embodiment of pure sleaze. Enthusiasm at occupying the same room as him dwindled to nothing, his uncertainty simmering quietly, in spite of himself Alastor didn't hold back the strained smile that touched the corners of his grimace.

Two pairs of hands were better than one, after all, and the moth owned more than that.

The charisma Valentino had wielded over the City's hapless residents earned him a loved reputation — although the Radio Demon had paid scant attention to the shady dealings dark?rumours hinted at, the tall-tales Angel Dust ranted about whenever he was particularly soused, Alastor had put that image of Valentino to the back row in favor of understanding the V at a personal level. There was a lot to be accomplished, much to learn through casual conversation than relying purely on heresay.

An allyship could very well be forged, without a trace of deception or scepticism muddying the bloodbond. If the deer demon was careful.

Lightheaded, keeping Valentino's form in focus was draining the majority of Alastor's energy reserves, having spent a good chunk of it debating the misfortune or good luck attracting the moth's concern, mystified how he had arrived at this awkward chapter in his distinguished life.

Exploring the repulsive atmosphere inside one of Valentino's revered social clubs, taking the advice from some conversation he had overheard in less than palatable environs, upon deciding the climate of the underground club was not appetizing — the deer demon's concentration was not the best when another reveller had passed him by more than once, before retracing their steps to shadow the Overlord. The unobtrusive knife — switchblade, shiv, butterknife, hilarious if a butterflyknife — sunken into the Radio Demon's side with an inconspicuous flick of their wrist. In the smoking section of the club, the thick haze had obscured faces and bodies alike — refusing to conclude it was a case of mistaken identity, that'd wound his ego deeper than the knife wound accepting that theory — the stag had wordlessly assented to Valentino's help.

The wash of cold blood seeping into his clothes had pulled his attention away from the noisy crowd, the gash in his side spreading like icicles were hooking into his flesh, numbness and razorsharp together. It was incomprehensible; the Radio Demon an easy target inside a V’s noisy club. Surrounded by vultures, journalists or regular gossip mongrels baying for a spicy story, brought back to one of Valentino's private rooms was a journey the stag recalled only as a blur.

Seated on a couch, Alastor's softened demeanour was hesitant, unsure of himself. Raising trembling hands to press the pads of his claws into his shut eyes, careless of the blood he smeared across his brow, Alastor's query came out indecisive, tension keeping his leaden body stiffened, however he had been feeling odd after enjoying the first drink of the night. There were too many bodies, too loud music, the nausea sinking in subtly before the flick of the hidden blade slicing through his coat. The cigarette Alastor had just lit was probably taken up by a disturbed fan, or his would-be assailant. A new wave of nausea sweeping over him, the deer demon's concentration wavered, trying to focus on the real-time events rather than fading memories.

“I-II think... my drink was spiked. Am I wrong to think your... security detail is lacking?”

[elementclangen]

Moon 269-Greenleaf

Creekstar (123) had been doing pretty well. Until her son got captured.  And until Vaxxstreak (155) died from his infected wound.  She knew that he was old, but it doesn’t make losing him any easier.  She looks around at the cats sitting vigil for him and wonders how any of them will cope without Vaxxstreak in their lives.  As the days pass, Creekstar becomes angry and withdrawn.  It feels like the entire Clan is just moving on from Vaxxstreak’s death, which she refuses to do.  His remaining child in the Clan, Downgaze (50) misses his dad but has always been closer to Creekstar.  He’s mostly worried about her and asks Lakepelt (77) for advice on what to do.  Hollypaw (8) picks up on the fact that Creekstar isn’t doing great and makes sure to check in on her.  Blizzardback (32) is less considerate and asks Creekstar to speak up while they’re chatting. In better news, Almondback (40) and Kestrelcreek (58) have become mates.  It’s nice for the two quiet cats to have each other to rely on.  Hopedawn (58) continues to prove that she is not a great grandma.  She is annoyed when Hatchswipe (14) tells her Hyacinthstripe’s (14) secret.  Brightmouse (44) is becoming closer friends with Downgaze and gives him some feathers from the bird she caught to line his nest.  Bluestripe (44) wants to make sure that Downgaze is good to her sister and is being condescending towards him as a test.  Hyacinthstripe complains about Treepaw (9) and Hatchswipe bickers with him in support of the apprentice.  Meanwhile, Whorlstorm (14) is having a fantastic time discussing clan news with Hollypaw and completely ignoring her siblings’ drama.

Healer’s Den: Rubbleheart (mangled tail), Sweet Marmalade (claw wound), Creekstar (grief stricken), Greenrapid (sprain), Stonepaw (scrapes)

[gabriellaamaral]

Sound Advice: Exploring the Challenges of Music with Calvin Joss 

Step into the vibrant world of Calvin Joss, where the soothing strum of a guitar and the raw emotion of soulful melodies converge to create an enchanting musical journey. Born and raised in the picturesque town of Ipswich, Massachusetts, Joss's musical journey began at a young age, fueled by a passion for storytelling and a love for the power of music. From the moment he first picked up a guitar, Joss knew that he had found his calling, and he hasn't looked back since.

Now in his early 40s, Joss has spent over two decades honing his craft and navigating the winding roads of the music industry. With Caspian, Joss has carved out a unique calling in the world of music, blending elements of folk, rock, and soul to create a sound that is distinctly his own. From intimate acoustic sets to electrifying live performances, Joss and his bandmates have captured the hearts of audiences far and wide, weaving tales of love, loss, and redemption with each chord.

But Joss's journey hasn't been without its challenges. Like many musicians, he has faced the daunting hurdles of an industry that can be as unforgiving as it is rewarding. From the relentless pursuit of commercial success to the financial uncertainties that often accompany a career in music, Joss has experienced his fair share of storms, emerging stronger and more resilient with each passing day.

Joss begins by reflecting on the hurdles of being a musician. "The industry is incredibly competitive," he explains. "You're constantly up against not only new and innovative talents but also industry standards that can be suffocating." He mentions the difficulty in maintaining artistic integrity while meeting commercial expectations, a common struggle for many musicians.

Yet, despite the obstacles, Joss remains steadfast in his commitment to his craft. "Adaptability is key," he advises. "You have to be willing to roll with the punches and evolve with the ever-changing landscape of the industry." It's a lesson he learned the hard way, having witnessed firsthand the nature of musical trends and consumer tastes.

Networking, Joss stresses, is another crucial aspect of building a successful music career. "It's not just about talent; it's about who you know," he emphasizes. "Forming genuine connections within the industry can open doors to opportunities that you might not have access to otherwise." Whether it's collaborating with fellow musicians or forging relationships with industry insiders, Joss understands the importance of cultivating a strong network.

Reflecting on his own missteps, Joss offers a word of caution to new musicians. "Don't compromise your authenticity for the sake of commercial success," he warns. "It's tempting to mold your music to fit what you think labels want, but ultimately, it's your unique voice that will resonate with audiences." It's a lesson he learned earlier in his career, during his initial breakthrough into the music industry. As a young and aspiring musician, Calvin was more susceptible to external pressures and influences, such as the desire for recognition and validation from established industry players like record labels. This tendency to compromise on artistic integrity for the promise of commercial success is a common pitfall that many emerging artists face, especially in the competitive and often cutthroat landscape of the music industry. By sharing this experience, Joss underscores the importance of authenticity and staying true to one's creative vision, regardless of external expectations or pressures.

One of the less glamorous aspects of a music career, according to Joss, is the financial instability. "There’s a lot of uncertainty, especially when starting out. Not every gig pays well, and you have to be prepared for lean times." He emphasizes the importance of financial planning and having multiple income sources. For Joss, this means not solely relying on performance earnings but also seizing opportunities beyond the stage, such as his role as a store manager at Gloucester Crossing Starbucks. By having multiple income sources, Joss ensures he has a more stable financial foundation to sustain his musical pursuits.

Reflecting on his own journey, Joss recalls the missteps he's encountered along the way. "I’ve made plenty," he admits with a chuckle. One mistake, he reveals, was compromising on his music to align with what he believed record labels desired. He cautions aspiring musicians against, emphasizing the importance of staying true to one's creative vision. "It’s your authenticity that will make you stand out," Joss asserts, underscoring the significance of maintaining artistic integrity amidst external pressures.

For those just starting their journey, Joss offers valuable wisdom collected from years of firsthand experience. "Be patient and persistent," he advises. "Careers aren’t built overnight." It's a sentiment rooted in the reality that success often requires unwavering dedication and a willingness to weather the inevitable storms that accompany the pursuit of one's passion. Additionally, Joss urges emerging artists to embrace criticism as a catalyst for growth rather than a deterrent. "Use it to improve," he urges, recognizing constructive feedback as a valuable tool for refining one's craft and going down a path towards artistic excellence.

As our conversation draws to a close, Joss leaves aspiring musicians with a final piece of advice: "Stay true to yourself and never stop honing your craft. Success in the music industry is often a marathon, not a sprint, so be patient and persistent." Aspiring musicians can learn much from his journey, applying these lessons to create  their own paths in the challenging yet rewarding world of music.

[alastorxmoody]

keep me grounded. is not that alastor forgets social niceties and manners, is that he just couldn’t care less whether people like him or not. which only leads to him coming off as a straight up asshole on his worse days, and a paranoid grump on a daily basis. he could use someone he respects and is strong enough to call him out when he’s being a jerk. to point out where the line is, and making it clear that it is not okay to cross it.

brothers in arms. you are only as good as the person fighting next to you. someone alastor had grown to respect and rely on. they might not always have a heart-to-heart about their feelings, but this is one of the few people alastor knows he can turn to. whether sharing drinks or just being there for each other, this is one of the few people alastor can honestly say he trusts.

sure i’ll teach you. alastor has a hard time believing anyone in their right mind would chose him as a mentor. even so alastor stepped into the role and with each passing generation he gets better at preparing aurors. now with the order he has also taken the responsibility to get them ready for a fight he wished they never had to fight. alastor is always willing to work with anyone who wants to be better prepared and work on refining their technique.

just promise you won’t end up like me. callous grumpy nature aside, alastor is a mentor at heart, and sometimes even if it surprises everyone around, he might end up giving some advice to those brave enough to bring up discussing their feelings with him. rumor says the best time to approach him is when he’s drinking, that’s when he’s more at ease, he might even pour you one.

fight me. it’s not that he lives to make enemies, that’s just something that happens from time to time. with the wizarding society hanging by a fine thread, and alastor living up to his last name every day of the week, everyone could easily fall into this category. whether this is someone who annoys him, like a fellow ministry employee, or someone alastor would love to punch their teeth out if the opportunity ever were to arise.

nothing left to say but goodbye. alastor was born and raised into the pureblood life. his parents were never pureblood elitists, and coming from a long line of aurors they had an impeccable reputation. his family was murdered before any of them could be labeled blood traitors. at sixteen alastor was left to carry on a family legacy. he cultivated many friendships through his childhood and early years in hogwarts. some of those friends, that he once considered family, have now turned out to be on the other side of the war. what happens when the person you would take a hit for is the one pointing the wand at you?

i would for you. alastor’s family was taken from him in the blink of an eye. for years he convinced himself that caring for anyone was only going to end in pain and heartbreak. despite having friends that he cared for and loved, he always tried to push them and keep them at arm’s length. after a failed engagement he accepted the fact that he was not meant to have a family. alastor might never have children of his own, but family has always been about more than blood.

[tcclsblog]

https://www.thekchencholing.org/blog/conversations-with-my-guru-13/post/conversations-with-my-guru-74

Chapter 9: Meanings

In modern day communication training, we are told to be clear and concise. We use various means to check whether the person we have communicated with has understood our message etc. Over the years, I have realized that this expectation of communication that we, as a listener, often have does not apply to conversation with our Gurus. Does that mean they are not clear and concise? No, they are - but our interpretation of what we think we have heard them, makes a difference. 

The Catuḥpratiśaraṇa Sūtra states (of the Four Reliances): -

Rely on the message of the teacher, not on his personality 

Rely on the meaning, not just on the words 

Rely on the real meaning, not on the provisional one 

Rely on your wisdom mind, not on your ordinary, judgemental mind 

Rinpoche communicates in many ways, sometimes with silence as Buddha did, sometimes saying something to one person but in fact the message may be intended for someone else who is present. When people come to Rinpoche for advice, the interpretation of what he said and really meant often differs based on what others perceive. This can sometimes lead to misunderstanding as illustrated below.

A relative had been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. This is a degenerative nerve disease and can either last for some time or can lead to death quite quickly. I was requested to bring him and his wife to see Rinpoche. We arrived at the Bukit Timah centre on a Saturday morning when Rinpoche was teaching a meditation class. We consulted Rinpoche and he listened and consoled him. I cannot remember the exact details of whether any pujas were recommended (I think so) but as they kept asking questions about what types of treatments to pursue etc, Rinpoche finally said, “Don’t worry so much, things will be okay in the end.” Rinpoche then asked them to join the meditation class. He instructed me to distribute the King of Prayers for all of us, including my relatives, to recite. I was puzzled. Why recite an aspiration prayer for rebirth in Sukhavati at a meditation class? It then dawned on me that this was Rinpoche’s way of ensuring my relative recited this extremely beneficial prayer at least once, before his passing. 

A few days later, someone mentioned to me that our relative had felt better after seeing Rinpoche. She said they were all glad to hear that he would recover based on what Rinpoche said. I was surprised at that, and said, “No, Rinpoche did not say he will recover, just not to worry and that it will be okay in the end. He made the class recite the King of Prayers, and that is most recited as an aspiration for someone who is dying or dead.” 

The different interpretations can be seen here: my relatives had taken what Rinpoche said to mean that there was a chance of a miraculous recovery. Yet, I did not hear Rinpoche say “you will recover”. 

Faced with knowing quite certainly what was to happen, I felt it was almost impossible for Rinpoche to tell them that death was imminent. My relative passed away less than six months later. 

This often happens when people ask Rinpoche for advice. Rinpoche, via either divination or other means, is often well aware of what is likely to happen. He then skilfully has to determine how best to communicate advice to us, we who are hungry to hear what we want to hear.  At times, his advice is misunderstood and people have been upset, with some even going to the extent of accusing Rinpoche of lying. To avoid such a situation where we become unhappy with our Guru's advice, a certain level of trust in the Guru - a conviction of his bodhicitta motivation - has to grow within us first before we utilise the Four Reliances to contemplate his words.

Tenzin

19 Dec 2021