#but that is a task i will undergo with pride

[cinnabarsilly]

crawling back to this tumblr account after the tiktok ban feels like driving back to my old home in the countryside,, gently wiping away the cobwebs and the dust that's settled in my absence,, nothing changed, nothing out of place,, a memory of a forgotten era; frozen in time,,

[a-d-nox]

what's a solar return?

any time the sun transits and becomes exactly conjunct your natal sun (it is in the exact sign and degree it was in when you were born), you undergo a solar return. solar returns happen every year on your birthday. my solar return is coming up this october, so i thought "why not?let's continue my thoughts about the return charts."

but what can a solar return chart show you?

literally everything about your year ahead. you just have to look at it and know what you are looking at/for. so let's break it down some of the basics...

paid reading options: astrology menu & cartomancy menu

enjoy my work? help me continue creating by tipping on ko-fi or paypal. your support keeps the magic alive!

sun

energy/aura, attention you receive this year, leadership opportunities, creativity, pride/ego/dignity, how generous you are, individuality, personal development, self-awareness, what makes you happy, celebrations, and self-expression.

moon

emotions / emotional responses, self-care, comfort zone / safe space, femininity, mothers / matriarchal / maternal instincts, family, nostalgia, pregnancy/fertility, baking/cooking, adaptability, menstruation, and habits/routines.

mercury

communication/gossiping, mindset / reasoning skills, perception, writing, social media / cellphone use, short trips, ground transportation, and mannerisms.

venus

romance, beauty/aestheticism, pleasure(s), art/entertainment, self-love, harmony, femininity, sentimentality, how you compromise, parties/celebrations, and possessions.

mars

passions/desires, self-confidence, ambition, anger/aggression, competitiveness, athletics / physical energy, impulsivity, courage/bravery, tasks, masculinity, assertiveness, sexuality, and violence.

jupiter

luck, abundance, wealth, success, opportunity, popularity, wisdom, air travel, ease, higher education (college/university), optimism, justice/retribution, law, and fulfillment.

saturn

work, achievement/mastery, challenges, karma, fathers / patriarchy / paternal instincts, fears, guilt, delays/limitations, discipline, responsibility, past issues that are prevalent this year, practicality, stability, endurance, maturity, and grudges.

uranus

friends/fans/followers, technology, fluctuation/change, rebellion, independence, originality, unexpected things / surprises, and chaos.

neptune

creativity, selflessness, escapism, intuition, hidden things, deception/lies/delusion, confusion, inspiration, and addiction/fascination.

pluto

change/transformation, power, sex/seduction, death, intensity/magnetism, obsessions, manipulation, and purging.

1h/asc

identity, approach/mindset this year, physical appearance, mannerisms, and your presence.

2h

money/finances this year, material possessions, self worth, what you are giving/receiving, and resources.

3h

communication/gossip, mind / method of thinking, sibling relationship(s), interests, ideas/information, ground transportation, social media / cellphone use, publishing, and short trips.

4h/ic

homes/houses, family matters, parents (mainly maternal figures), inner child work you do this year, inheritance, traditions you practice this year, self-care you do this year, and femininity.

5h

children, talents / hobbies / entertainment / creative pursuits, drama, short-term romances, pleasures/gifts, fertility, and joy/delight/jubilation

6h

daily routine, health/fitness/diet, work/duties, self-improvement / shadow work, hygiene, and pet(s).

7h/dsc

long-term relationships / marriage / partnerships, how you care for others (if you care for others), minor legal pursuits, contracts/negotiations, known enemies, close associates / business partners, and equality/harmony/sharing (how you promote it and how (if) you receive it).

8h

changes (external and internal), death (internal and external), shared finances, what you invest in, stocks/taxes/inheritance/loans/assets, intimacy (intellectual and physical), secrets/mystery, mental health / trauma you experience, and possible surgery/operations.

9h

wisdom you gain, major legal pursuits, new beliefs/ethics/philosophy milestones, college/university, and air travel / travel abroad.

10h/mc

career, public image / status / reputation in society, responsibilities towards society/others, authority, paternal figures, and your professional aspirations (the progress you make towards them this year).

11h

friends/companions/allies/groups, ideals/desires, how your different this year as opposed to years past, technology, networking/socializing, and parties (formal and informal).

12h

how you heal this year from you past / mental health journey, karma, sleeping habits, your experience with solitude/isolation this year, unknown enemies, illusions/delusions you have about your situation, fears / self-limitation, losses, and what you secretly/subconsciously want most this year.

have ideas for new content? please use my “suggest a post topic” button! 

return to nox’s guide to metaphysics

return to the masterlist of return charts

© a-d-nox 2023 all rights reserved

[moronkombat]

i am absolutely l o v i n g the stuff you’re putting out! 🤍🤍 could i request anything fluffy for raiden🫣 sfw or nsfw it doesn’t matter to me 💝 i just love him so much

have some soft Raiden!!

When Raiden had invited you out with him he half expected you to deny him. He had built himself up to except the rejection, practicing in the mirror how he would react. It Kung Lao's pressuring that led Raiden to even undergoing this task.

It not entirely out of the realm of reality for him to ask you out to dinner. It not the first time you would bee meeting each nor would it be your initial outing together. No, it would not be that all. He has known you for a bit now and there has been time spent between the two of you.

But a dinner? A date. Raiden cannot help but shutter at the word. It feels so childish and boyish, though suppose he had felt like that when building up the courage to ask you to join him for a quick dinner at Madame Bo's. He spent even more time preparing his bravery for the rejection but it never came.

A jaw goes slack and eyes blink as if trying to ascertain if what he seeing real. Real it was, indeed. You had accepted with a smile most beaming and Raiden had thought to himself What now?

Shaking smile laced in his expression he had something along the lines "Great! I'll pick you up at 7:00!" Before scuttling off, still not believing this to all be so real.

The time flies quicker than he would like, his mind still rattling in nerves and sick anticipation. When he see's you, arrive to escort you, all those worries seem to blow into the wind. You stand there and Raiden thinks maybe he should have dressed up better. He looks like but a pawn compared to you.

His throat is dry all of sudden and there's an audible gulp while he lightly shakes his head in the hopes of ridding himself of this stunned stupor. It doesn't work. Eyes scan up and down and he begins to speak but his words are treacherous, coming out as crackles.

Clearing his throat he tells you something or tries to. "Wow, uh-you look, uhm-good...!"

He can feel his stomach flip and it takes everything within him not to slap his forehead in disgrace. You seem not to mind his awkward mumbling as your response is gracious and paired with a delicate smile. Raiden nodded his head and then the two of you were off into the night.

Dinner appeared to drag through the winds of time but he didn't mind it. Not at all. You seemed keen on speaking with him just as he was. Slowly, that tingling nerves began to leave Raiden's spine bit by bit. He's comfortable now, sitting across from you and laughing at something you had said.

It not only his laugh that rings, yours does too and Raiden swells with pride hearing it. More and more confident he becomes as your dinner continues and Raiden feels unstoppable. Well perhaps not so much when the bill came but he insisted on paying and you thank him yet again with that smile has grown to be fond of.

Now the two of you walk in the cooling air of stars. A breeze most light dances around him as it does you. Smiles are a contagious thing, they must be. The two of you full of them. Raiden tells a joke and you laugh that music he so adores.

"I had a really great time with you tonight, Raiden." Your words fill his heart up tight. You had a good time but not just that. You had a good time with him. Raiden couldn't ask for much more than that and he isn't going to.

"It was really my pleasure. I'm just glad you agreed to come to dinner with me." Comes his confession, a hand rubbing his neck while his gaze drifts from yours.

You head sways to the right and a brow is perched in interest. "Did you think I wouldn't?"

"Ah well-" and his hand is scratching the skin of neck faster now, "Didn't know how busy you might be."

"I will always make time for you, Raiden." Endearing words spoken from lips that display a kind smile.

Raiden watches you for a moment, lips thinning into something shy while his head nods. "T-Thanks."

Oh how he wants to collide his palm to his face. How nervous must he sound? Incredibly he bets. There's a rather large barrel of hay to his left and oh does it look like a cozy place to hide away in right about now. But your words find him before he gets the chance to shrink away even further.

"You like me, don't you, Raiden?" An accusation, one that hits the nail so rough on the head.

Eyes of onyx widen and his body becomes one of ice. He stares at you, lost and trapped. A soft gaze stares into one petrified and Raiden's mouth begins to move but words cannot find themselves.

Your smile shines into him and you gift him with the words he tries to say. "It's okay. I like you too, Raiden."

He stares to you then unsure what to do with himself. Defenses wish to rise up and swallow him in embarrassment, shock and bewilderment. Raiden unable to move at all, his body simply trapped in this twilight like daze. Yet, your step closer to him is seen. Your hands laying against the fabric of his sleeves are felt and still he is made of stone.

Lips press against something smooth yet chapped and his eyes become the moon. Frozen and fixated he can only watch as your lips kiss his, still lightly parted from shocked. You don't seem to mind, holding there for but a precious moment and then you are retreating from him. Raiden's hands feel heavy and fingers twitch. Warmth becomes him and once tanned skin becomes as pink as a blooming rose.

Your laugh rings his ears and finally the cement binding his body seems to break away. He should do something, anything, instead stand here like a fool and then he senses your hands with his. He squeezes yours, perhaps a bit too eager, but you don't seem to mind.

"I'll see you tomorrow, Raiden." Not a question, no this is a promise and now Raiden is smiling.

He nods once, his smile wide as pinkish dust covers his cheeks. "Yeah. I'll see you tomorrow."

[wishfuldivine]

Alright. This is for you @gaystappen!

Kyle "Gaz" Garrick is a character from the Call of Duty: Modern Warfare franchise.

He's a Sergeant and part of the Task Force 141 along with Captain Price, Ghost, and Soap. He's either the youngest or nearly same age as Soap, who happens to be another Sergeant. Quite frankly, it hasn't been established with accuracy.

Kyle Garrick enlisted in the British Army in 2008,  serving in the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, spending four years participating in test flights, jump competition and marksmanship before passing selection for Her Majesty's elite Special Air Service (SAS), where he is currently serving as a Sergeant for his sixth year. Tasked to Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Turkey, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria. Garrick has spent the better part of his career hunting terrorist fighters. Kyle earned the U.S. Marine Corps Gold Parachute Wings at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina whilst on an exchange attachment and routinely cross-loads on operations with the SAS' American counterparts, the Navy SEALs. Required to undergo resistance to interrogation (RTI) testing, Kyle was the only candidate in his class to escape the facility and evade capture. Routinely subjected to physically and mentally uncomfortable scenarios, Kyle prides himself on high tolerance and tactical awareness. "Everyone talks about the physical aspect of being in the SAS but my job is mostly mental. Give me a guy who's got his mindset right over a guy who's twice as fit any day of the week."

Sergeant Garrick was awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal and the General Service Medal for both covert and overt counter-terrorism operations in the Middle East, disrupting opium supply lines and poppy production, a major source of terrorist financing. Kyle's last Middle Eastern tour was cut short due to an ever-changing political climate and a growing intolerance for full-throated unconventional warfare. Fading support for western backed guerrilla movements as well as growing regional tension complicated matters in the field, as men like Kyle are asked to do an imperfect job, perfectly well, without exception, no matter the cost.

With expertise in prime target elimination, demolitions, weapons tactics, covert surveillance and VIP protection, Kyle currently serves on the SAS domestic counter-terror program, executing homefield missions with metropolitan police forces on European soil. Challenging duty, due to civilian and collateral damage issues, Kyle seeks the opportunity to serve abroad again, and make a real difference combating the threat of terror. (Had to copy and paste it for you to get a glance at his early days)

Therefore, he's a complete BADASS. The only problem when it comes to him is that, the majority of the COD fandom leave him out of stuff. It can go as far as fanart, fanfics, edits, and more. Basically, he's ridiculed for simply being POC. Even the official Call of Duty company by the name Activision often leave him out of things. Such as promos, skins on the game, etcetera.

His character development within the franchise is by far my favorite. He went from scared, insecure, doubtful, to determined, level-headed, and voice of reason.

Though, he can be such a damn brat. There's parts of the campaign in MW2 where he is a smartass and witty while speaking to Captain Price and Kate Laswell, the Station Chief and close friend of Price. Don't let his hard persona fool you. He'll be the first to join Soap in any mischief.

But overall, this is my baby. I can say so much more but that's what is on top of my head. He's my best boy. My baby girl. My precious pretty boy. My muse. He's so gorgeous. And beautiful. He belongs to the other 3, though. XD

Sorry if it's very long!

[oncethefirefades]

Welcome to DawnClan

─── ⋆⋅ ♰ ⋅⋆ ───

You find yourself standing in an unfamiliar environment. Nothing but mist and stardust as far as the eye can see until you are greeted with a pair of orange eyes. Before you could call out to ask who was there, a large tom joins you in the vast empty space and gives you a slight chuckle. “Well, I’m not sure how you got here, but I could take a pretty good guess. Either way, I’ve been told to expect company, so I’ll do my job— though I can’t say that showing you my home is considered hard work exactly.” 

His words didn’t make much sense, but you weren’t going to question it. Something about the broad, orange tabby told you to trust him; perhaps it was the glimmer of starlight in his gaze, his tall and proud stature, or perhaps something else that words could not describe as easily. Regardless, as he led you towards a welcoming barn and a land of fences laced with the faint scent of a few too many animals, you followed without hesitation.

─── ⋆⋅ ♰ ⋅⋆ ───

While some cats may find it difficult to work in an environment so close with twolegs, it is something that the cats within this Clan pride themselves on heavily. With the boon of bountiful prey and a multitude of various food sources backing them up, nothing stops these excessively proud cats from boasting about never going hungry even during the peak of leaf-bare. Their lands are smaller than the other two clans, yet this doesn’t stop their territory from being full of life. With sheep, cows, horses, chickens, and the occasional friendly herding dog to keep them company, DawnClan falls nothing short of being one of the most bountiful clans. Working around (and sometimes with, when they can be manipulated) twolegs, these cats are able to fill their bellies and back their Clan up with the power of eggs and milk. It also helps that they are able to get their paws on the highly sought after sheep wool that makes their camp one of the most luxurious. Buzzing bee hives dotting the outskirts of vast, rolling pastures also provide an excellent source of honey when carefully extracted by a feline’s cunning. The only thing that could set this rowdy coalition back is when new-leaf arrives, then every cat is needed to place their full attention  towards the massive workload increase that comes with the birth of new young animals DawnClan strives to oversee.

⋆⁺｡˚⋆˙‧₊☽ ◯ ☾₊‧˙⋆˚｡⁺⋆

Each of the Clans within this territory, all with their own methods for survival, have developed unique roles for each of their members to grow into as they undergo their training and become warriors within the clan. While all warriors will hunt and defend their territory, these specialized roles play a huge part in maintaining the prosperity of their respective Clan. Within DawnClan, a warrior can find themselves becoming a pointer, shepherd, or guardian. 

Pointers work towards surveying and memorizing the migration patterns of prey and the movements of predators to keep the Clan’s territory in perfect balance. Alongside monitoring the behavior of prey and predator alike which rove throughout their territory, pointers are specially suited for tracking unusually large game over long distances. They use coordinated team tactics to bring down quarries several times their size, functioning in sync akin to packs of canines on the hunt— a practiced strategy that is unique to DawnClan’s culture and grants them skill to fell even the most magnificent of prey such as deer. There is nothing more thrilling than a brutal chase and satisfying capture in the eyes of pointers, reveling gleefully in their shared camaraderie. 

Shepherds on the contrary are a more nurturing role, tending to the multitude of animals within the farm and working to understand them on a deeper level. These cats are most often in charge of gathering eggs from the chicken roost, extracting milk from cows, and collecting wool from sheep— even more dangerous tasks such as gathering hair from the mane of horses fall to shepherds. No other cats within the Clan can be found to be as patient and gentle as these, unafraid to approach any animal no matter what temperament they may have. These cats are often inquisitive and have a keen eye, as they must always be mindful of their charges’ health and mood. 

Lastly are the guardians, a role sporting some of the most dedicated warriors within the Clan. Being placed within the most time and attention consuming niche, these cats are tough. Trained to be exemplary fighters with incredible brawling ability, these felines are constantly stationed outside of camp and the animal enclosures. Guardians work together to patrol each section of their ranch’s most vulnerable areas and keep both cats and livestock safe from a multitude of threats. Anything from raccoons to stray dogs can be found attempting to steal a chicken or harass peacefully grazing sheep, and it’s the responsibility of guardians to keep vigilant regarding potential enemies, alerting the Clan and fearlessly protecting their charges from them in turn. 

⋆⁺｡˚⋆˙‧₊☽ ◯ ☾₊‧˙⋆˚｡⁺⋆

From unique clowders that have long since stood independently while cultivating their own lives stems equally unique cultures, and celebration for each of the following Clans which have sprang from their pawsteps. For DawnClan, each season they find themselves partaking in a series of games consisting of multiple trials where all cats can show off their skills. This tradition is called the Red Sun Derby— hosting wild events such as an obstacle course, herding competition, and a bucking showdown, a fervor runs through the lifeblood of DawnClan as each warrior seeks to declare themself rodeo champion. Substantially less dangerous— though no less chaotic— in new-leaf, a scavenger hunt called Suns’s First Light takes place. Imploring cats to work together with their clanmates, special objects often laced with sentimental value to the owner are hidden throughout various sections of the territory, often in tricky or potentially difficult to reach places. Cats must work together to locate and gather each of these objects before the other teams. A cat who finds the particular item can either choose to keep it with permission from the owner or return it, either way serving as a symbol of interconnectivity throughout the Clan as they appreciate each other’s special mementos and the effort taken to retrieve them. Of course, the teams who find the most items may enjoy bragging rights too, but it’s all in good fun as things often are within DawnClan’s jovial environment.

─── ⋆⋅ ♰ ⋅⋆ ───

[witchthewriter]

𝐊𝐲𝐥𝐞 '𝐆𝐚𝐳' 𝐆𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐤

ISFP

Gryffindor

Chaotic Good

Gemini Sun, Virgo Moon, Cancer Rising

The fact that Kyle Garrick doesn't have as much popularity as some of the other characters in the Call of Duty world. is sinful. It's blasphemy.

Look, at first I was one of those people who didn't like Gaz as much as the rest of the Task Force, but now, NOW, I see him as such a valuable member. This is my formal apology to thy beautiful god of a man, Gaz.

And also a post so those that say, 'they don't know anything about Gaz so they cannot include him' - well here's your info babes!

"𝑳𝒆𝒕'𝒔 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒊𝒕 𝒅𝒐𝒏𝒆, 𝒚𝒆𝒂𝒉?" — 𝖪𝗒𝗅𝖾 𝖦𝖺𝗋𝗋𝗂𝖼𝗄

Alias(es)

Sabre 2-6

Bravo 0-5

Bravo 2-6

Bravo 6-2

Bravo 6-1

Gaz

Nationality: British

Rank: Sergeant Sergeant is a senior role of responsibility, promotion to which typically takes place after 12 years of service, depending on ability. Sergeants typically are second in command of a troop or platoon of up to 35 soldiers, with the important responsibility for advising and assisting junior officers.

Birth: 1993 However, he is older than Soap.

Hair: Black

Eyes: Brown

Kyle Garrick enlisted in the British Army in 2008, serving in the Duke of Lancaster's Regiment, spending four years participating in test flights, jump competition and marksmanship before passing selection for Her Majesty's elite Special Air Service (SAS), where he is currently serving as a Sergeant for his sixth year.

Tasked to Northern Ireland, Bosnia, Turkey, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria. Garrick has spent the better part of his career hunting terrorist fighters.

Kyle earned the U.S. Marine Corps Gold Parachute Wings at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina whilst on an exchange attachment and routinely cross-loads on operations with the SAS' American counterparts, the Navy SEALs.

Required to undergo resistance to interrogation (RTI) testing, Kyle was the only candidate in his class to escape the facility and evade capture.

Routinely subjected to physically and mentally uncomfortable scenarios, Kyle prides himself on high tolerance and tactical awareness.

Sergeant Garrick was awarded the Queen's Gallantry Medal and the General Service Medal for both covert and overt counter-terrorism operations in the Middle East, disrupting opium supply lines and poppy production, a major source of terrorist financing.

With expertise in prime target elimination, demolitions, weapons tactics, covert surveillance and VIP protection, Kyle currently serves on the SAS domestic counter-terror program, executing homefield missions with metropolitan police forces on European soil.

Challenging duty, due to civilian and collateral damage issues, Kyle seeks the opportunity to serve abroad again, and make a real difference combating the threat of terror.

Quotes

" Fuck off, shit pouch."

"It shouldn't have happened in the first place sir."

"They sent us in half assed, so everyone can just keep pretending we're not at war."

"I'm not dead, Nik. I'm hanging from a bloody rope!"

Personality

Very rarely does Kyle demand attention. He's observant problem-solving and bases his decisions on his instincts and values, and focuses on enjoying the present.

However, with the line of work he's in. Kyle has had to change the way he reacts to things. One really obvious scene between him and Cpt Price shows how this job is changing Kyle e.g,. Price’s quote about bloodying your hands after taking the gloves off.

Even so, I do think he's the most gentle of the four men, the kindest - almost like he's clung to his humanity with everything he's got.

sources: @mockerycrow. callofdutyfandom.com.

[moofahdrome]

U have very good taste in ttrpgs !!

U should talk about ur fave character uve played as if u have one!

thank you thanks!!! its GOTTA be Ellen Weaver, alias Alloy, a PC I made for a Masks game that I'd love to use again! I've got a few pieces of her to share here, and I'll paste her bio below the cut :)

art by @beedokart and @paperandpencilsandskips respectively!

and some INCREDIBLE music from @maxknightley !!!

She's just. SO fun to play and explore and be cool and interesting and queer with. I really hope I can play another game where she'll fit! Plus designing her gave me sooooo much gender euphoria and I've started looking a lot more like her irl its wonderfullllll

Here's her bio if you wanna read!

Ellen Weaver is the goddaughter of the hero Stainless, an iron man-style figurehead hero for a major tech and defense company that her actual parents own. Ellen always admired Stainless and wanted to be a hero just like her, though as the eldest son (at the time) of a CEO she wasn't taken very seriously until she genuinely committed herself to the task throughout her adolescence. On her 18th birthday, a year after she came out as a girl, Stainless finally promised to take her on as an apprentice once she turned 20 as long as she constantly trained and studied, and the inheritance of Stainless Corp. was passed down to her younger brother.

One day, while Stainless was taking her on a tour of the company's weapons R&D, they observed the study(torture) of a captured alien creature resembling a long strand of silver. Sensing Ellen's deeply hidden empathy, the symbiote escaped its cage and bonded with her, becoming a living metal tattoo across her skin. This disturbed everyone greatly, but after months of testing, it seemed to not be a threat. The symbiote is sentient but not (yet) capable of human expression, but it gets along with Ellen and wants to help her. As long as it's still connected to her somehow, it can detach from her skin to be used as a weapon or tool akin to a whip, a spear, a rope, or anything it can coil into. This gave her a genuine superpower, when both she and Stainless were only using intelligence, martial training, and gadgets before.

This disturbed Stainless. She encourages or demands her apprentice to keep the symbiote dormant and unused, ostensibly because she doesn't want her protege to rely on an unpredictable power. In truth, though, alien or not, Stainless has a prejudice towards all genuine superhumans, viewing them as priding themselves above humanity and unfairly accomplishing what normal people have to work to create. Stainless was never a truly good mentor or hero, but this soured her further, and she is now much harder on Ellen, who still idolizes her.

Ellen, for her part, took the alias Alloy and officially registered herself as a hero on her twentieth birthday. The process was somewhat perturbing to her, since most heroes undergo various tests and trials to be officially licensed, but Stainless pushed her through the process without telling her and the judges just let her sit with them for a while before parading her out and celebrating her newly 'won' status. Alloy still strives to be a hero that will make her mentor and family proud, but eventually her doubts and fears will take over or she'll be pushed too far. When that day comes, she'll abandon her birthright and privilege and technology, becoming a vigilante entirely dependent on her relationship with herself, her symbiotic partner, and her friends.

[drdemonprince]

I love that in Mad Men, Roger's "big" revelation from taking psychedelics is that he's a 55 year old boy with a full head of hair and a ton of wealth and so he might as well enjoy it. Psychedelics can give you a new perspective on things that can feel revelatory, but whatever new meaning you make is still being created by your own mind. Tripping isn't going to make you become a new person or adopt completely new values, for the most part, unless you've actually been lying to yourself about what you value all along. For Roger, the great insight is simply to accept who he is, base impulses and all, and to luxuriate in it instead of slinking around having affairs and comparing himself to his successful business magnate dad.

And that's ultimately the kind of 'big' revelation that Don arrives at in the end of the series. He doesn't attain nirvana, kill himself, decry his profession, or anything like that. He accepts at last that he is an ad man, and that he's a philandering huckster with a great talent for marrying the counter culture and the mainstream. hence: i'd like to buy the world a coke.

The entire series is about people knowing themselves and not knowing themselves. I love that it can so subtly render character growth without actually having most people undergo any kind of dramatic change. Real life doesn't work that way. We continue to carry the same baggage that we've always had, and no matter how impulsively or self-destructively we try new things, we aren't ever going to get a new mind. So one of life's great journeys of coming to actually know oneself, including one's flaws and baser impulses, and to cease believing in the lies we enact to pass unnoticed through the world.

Over and over again in the series, people grapple with the perceptions of others and the task of managing the impression they give off. Betty wants to be a perfectly beautiful housewife and loving mother; eventually she comes to accept that she has a bitter edge and a cancerous rot of jealousy buried deep inside of her, and that she's far more fascinated by other people and their problems than she's ever let on. She also learns to accept that her daughter Sally is rebellious and counter-cultural like her dad. Peggy learns to accept the life she has made for herself through all of her messy choices and incredible talents, and to accept the child that she's lost, and learns to finally take pride in all that she's done. Joan finally accepts that she's not a sex-pot doctor's wife, she's a shrewd businesswoman and a canny manipulator, and she starts her own business in order to reflect that, the moment she gives up on chasing after love. She can't be with Bob because if she does, Bob will remain unable to accept his queerness and actual class background. Bob himself is a bit of a foil for Sal, the commensurate professional who enacts his desires in private, impulsive fumbling moments, but understandably can't accept anyone knowing or even admitting it to himself. On and on and on, in moments large and small, it's a show about knowing and accepting oneself -- even if the person that one is isn't particularly good.

[gracielately]

When people ask, "What is your dream?" it’s common for them to assume it refers to a career ambition. This assumption comes from a cultural emphasis on professional success and personal achievement, often framing dreams as something to aspire to in the workplace or related to public accomplishments. For many, dreams are synonymous with career goals, financial success, or personal projects that heightens their public identity or status.

However, dreams may have different definitions for everyone. Heck, It can be anything meaningful to you. Motherhood isn't a job that's measured by wealth, promotions and accolades that you gain during the process, but it is a job that's full of love, compassion, values, patience and especially resilience. This was originally a performance task in my subject: Reading and Writing, but I made a draft 2 years before I wrote this essay. Words cannot describe how I yearn to be a mother, but I tried as hard as I could. Enjoy reading !!

My Ultimate Dream: “Nurture’s Calling!”

There is an inner fire burning inside of me, a deep desire embedded in my soul—a certain and heartfelt desire to become a mother. It is not something that I just want or need; it is a part of my nature. From the days of playing with baby dolls as a little girl to working towards success for my future family, I knew it was always my calling. To nurture and pour my heart into a living testimony of me and my partner’s love is the highest expression of love for me, and I am ready to give it my all.

Usually regarded as a nurturing type of person, there is an aching desire within me to provide a life for my future children that is abundant with love and compassion. When I think about my future children, I do not just see small versions of me and my partner—I see the living testaments of the love we have created. The concept of holding my child for the first time, looking at them, and seeing parts of myself and the person I love fulfills me in ways no words can explain. It's almost as if once this time comes, my lifetime purpose will have been fulfilled. I am aware that motherhood is not an easy role to take on, and I am fully conscious of the changes that my body would have to undergo, such as pregnancy pains, sleepless nights, and postpartum problems, but none of that scares me. I will wholeheartedly welcome every sacrifice and pain because I know that the reward that is waiting at the end is worth more than everything. I know that all the pain and worry will disappear once I hear my child's first cry and will be replaced by an overwhelming love instead. I can already feel it—that wave of emotions that will wash over me once I get to hold my child. It is a love so intense that it washes out all the fear, uncertainty, and pain I went through. I know that I can overcome anything with the love that I possess. This dream is not only about becoming a mother—it’s about becoming their mother. The kind of mother who loves wholeheartedly, the kind who loves them loudly, as well as the one who watches them as they grow, with pride and joy, knowing that I gave my all to give them a life of quality. I want my children to grow up knowing that they are forever loved and cherished and that they are put into this world with a purpose and never by accident. Of course, I am aware that I am too young to bear children of my own at this age. I will of course avoid participating in such acts and instead work my way to success in preparation for the family that I am going to build, and when the time comes, at least I'll know that I did everything I could to prepare for that moment.

I am burning with the great desire to become a mother, to share my love with my children, and to have a legacy that stands as evidence of love passed on to generations. This is not just my ultimate dream—this is what I was meant for; this is my purpose.

[coochiequeens]

By Reduxx Team November 6, 2023

Editor’s Note: Reduxx has submitted a detailed report on the subject of this article to CyberTip, a leading digital child protective authority which connects reports with local law enforcement. In accordance with our ethical standards, CyberTip was contacted PRIOR to the writing of this article.

A trans-identified male who promotes nudism has been reported to child protective authorities following a disturbing video beginning to circulate on social media showing him exposing his genitals and breasts in the presence of a small child.

The video first began to circulate on November 5. Reduxx is withholding the direct link to the video as the child’s face is not censored.

In the video, an adult post-operative transgender male is seen lounging nude in what appears to be a family residence. The man spreads his legs repeatedly, exposing his surgically-constructed vagina, while a young boy is sitting a few feet in front of him. He then stands to retrieve a trans-pride flag which he holds in front of his body.

Reduxx has identified the male in the video as Marie Willa Bobo-Smith, a nudist activist who resides in Fort Bragg, California.

Bobo-Smith, formerly known as Maurice Smith, has been a pro-nudist activist for a number of years, maintaining a strong presence in the nudist community since 2012.

Bobo-Smith prior to his transition.

Bobo-Smith has maintained a blog titled Simple Naturist for 13 years, regularly posting lengthy diatribes about his belief that public nudity should be made legal and protected by the law.

“As Americans, we live in an insane world, where you can legally carry and conceal a gun, but risk imprisonment should anyone see your genitals,” Bobo-Smith wrote in December of 2012. “We live in a world where children entertain fantasies of killing innocents in video games, but the sight of a nipple is unacceptable and psychologically damaging.”

Bobo-Smith began transitioning in 2018, beginning a hormone regimen. The next year, he launched a GoFundMe campaign requesting donations to help him afford the “gender confirmation surgery” he wanted to undergo with Dr. Marci Bowers in the Bay Area.

Bowers, a trans-identified male, is the current President of the World Professional Association of Transgender Health, and has become controversial for his role in promoting the medical transitioning of children.

An old Vimeo account belonging to Bobo-Smith pre-transition featured videos of the man doing a number of tasks while nude, including cooking, washing his dogs, and cleaning.

But in some of the videos he is in public, such as in one where he is naked while driving, and another while he is pumping gas at a service station.

In 2021, Bobo-Smith participated in a nudist rally in Fort Bragg, giving a speech at the event in which he condemned the stigma surrounding nudity and relating it to an experience he had walking topless following the hormone-induced growth of his breasts.

“Imagine: that as a transgender woman I am the living embodiment of a sexual double standard. Men can walk around top free and post photos of themselves on the internet and when a woman does it, she then becomes a slut, a whore and illegal,” he declared.

Bobo-Smith has been married since 1993, with his wife remaining with him throughout his transition. According to his social media history, he has children and grandchildren.

Over the years, Bobo-Smith has admitted to exposing his children to his genitalia, slamming critics of the practice as close-minded puritans. He insists there are no sinister motives to the practice, and advocates for nudism as a “lifestyle.”

In one post recently shared to his Instagram, Bobo-Smith uploaded a photo of a child’s doll representing a little girl with a penis. Bobo-Smith describes keeping a stuffed animals in his bedroom, along with a child’s doll intended to resemble a little girl with a penis.

“I got to have a great conversation with my grandson [name redacted] this morning. He’s six years old. He finally saw this naked doll sitting amongst our stuffed animals in mine and Marge’s bedroom,” Bobo-Smith describes. “When he saw it, he shockingly exclaimed ‘meemaw!'”

Bobo-Smith then describes a short exchange in which the child says “boys have penises,” to which he responds: “some boys have a penis and some boys have a vulva.”

On TikTok, Bobo-Smith has claimed he also has fostered children, with other “nudists” curiously asking him how he managed to get approval to become a foster parent despite his open nudism.

In the comments from a TikTok video uploaded in May, Bobo-Smith advised another nudist aspiring to be a foster parent that his nudism had been “addressed and resolved” at one point during the fostering process.

While Bobo-Smith has now deleted his TikTok account, Reduxx was able to archive multiple videos Bobo-Smith published following the initial outburst of concern prompted by the footage of him exposing himself to a child.

“People on the bird app formerly known as Twitter seem really shocked by a recent post of mine and asked ‘you mean your family and your friends have all seen you naked?’ Well, yeah. Everyone I know has seen me naked,” Bobo-Smith says. “I see nudity as normal and I do my utmost to show other people that nudity is a normal thing.”

[republicsecurity]

Heroes at the Show

The cadets, clad in their red armored exosuits, moved with a practiced grace that bespoke both discipline and rigor. Their faces were exposed, revealing freshly shaved heads, a symbol of uniformity and efficiency. Their youthful features held an air of determination, reflecting the arduous training they had undergone.

The exhibits around them told the story of the Paramedic Corps: from their earliest days of service to their advanced technological developments. There were holograms depicting paramedics in action, providing medical aid in the most challenging conditions. Display cases held their iconic chastity cages, symbols of their dedication to service. The various iterations of their uniform, from the classical red flightsuits to the cutting-edge tactical armor, were meticulously arranged.

Visitor: (curious) Excuse me, young man. I couldn't help but notice your attire. You're quite different from the other visitors here. May I ask about your uniform and, well, your shaved head?

Cadet: (politely) Of course, sir. I'm a paramedic cadet. We wear this armor as part of our training, and the shaved head is also part of the process. It's designed to make us more efficient in the field.

Visitor: (intrigued) Paramedic cadet, you say? That sounds fascinating. What's it like to be a part of the paramedic corps?

Cadet: (thoughtful) It's a challenging but rewarding experience, sir. We undergo rigorous training to ensure we can respond to emergencies swiftly and effectively. Our conditioning prepares us for the demands of the job, and the uniform helps us perform our duties optimally.

Visitor: (inquisitive) Conditioning? Could you tell me more about that?

Cadet: (guarded) I'm afraid I can't go into too much detail, sir. It's a necessary part of our training, but it's also confidential. What I can say is that it helps us stay focused and disciplined.

Visitor: (respectful) I understand, young man. Your dedication to your duties is commendable. And your uniform, while imposing, certainly has its function, I'm sure.

Cadet: (with pride) Thank you, sir. Our platoon has been working hard, and our instructors decided to reward us with this visit to the museum today. It's a chance for us to learn more about the history and traditions of the paramedic corps.

Visitor: (impressed) That's wonderful to hear. It seems like you and your fellow cadets are dedicated to your training. And being in a tactical stream, I imagine you're quite accustomed to wearing these suits regularly?

Cadet: (nodding) Yes, sir. In the tactical stream, we're trained to live and work in these armor suits. They become like a second skin to us, and it's essential for our roles in the field. We wear them most of the time during our training.

Visitor: (curious) Living in these suits sounds challenging. How do you manage?

Cadet: (matter-of-fact) It does take some getting used to, sir, but our training is thorough. We learn to perform everyday tasks and even eat, sleep, and communicate effectively while wearing them. It's all part of the preparation to serve as paramedics.

Instructor: (approaching the cadet and the visitor) Everything alright here, Cadet?

Cadet: (respectful) Yes, Instructor. This visitor was just curious about our training and equipment, so I was explaining it to them.

Instructor: (nodding) Very well, Cadet. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask. And, sir, if you'd like a guided tour of the museum, we have knowledgeable instructors available to provide more in-depth information about our history and traditions.

Visitor: (appreciative) Thank you, Instructor. That sounds like an excellent opportunity to learn more.

Instructor:(knowing) Ah, you've noticed the room with the HUD emulation. Yes, it's designed to give you a taste of what it's like to see the world through our paramedics' eyes.

Over there, you can see the evolution of our tactical armor suits. It's a testament to how technology has advanced to keep our paramedics safe in the field.

And if you're feeling particularly adventurous, we have an exhibit that traces the evolution of the chastity cages. The pièce de résistance! Here, you can witness the fascinating history of our beloved chastity cages. From the early models that barely held things in place to the high-tech, AI-connected contraptions you all know and love.

[elysiangroundsforall]

In the Course of It ...

"You're my only Bambi, Bambi"

Chapter 3

The relief and joy I felt as my name was called out were overwhelming. I had made it through to the next phase of my journey with INB100. My fellow trainees and I congratulated each other, sharing hugs and high-fives, our excitement and camaraderie palpable.

After the announcement, we were given the rest of the day off to celebrate and rest. I decided to call Minseo right away.

"Minseo! I made it! I’m moving on to the next phase!" I exclaimed, unable to contain my excitement.

"I knew you would! This is incredible, Y/N! I'm so proud of you!" she cheered.

"Thank you so much for believing in me. I couldn’t have done it without your support," I said, feeling a surge of gratitude.

"You did all the hard work, Y/N. Now go celebrate! You deserve it," she encouraged.

After the call, a group of us trainees decided to go out and celebrate. We found a cozy little café nearby and spent the afternoon sharing stories, dreams, and laughs. It was a welcome break from our intense training, and it helped strengthen the bonds between us.

As the sun set, I returned to the dorms, feeling recharged and ready for whatever came next. The following day, we were back in the training hall, eager to hear about the next steps in our journey.

The head trainer welcomed us and explained the upcoming phase. "Congratulations to all of you who made it through the first evaluation. Now, the real challenge begins. You will undergo more specialized training, including vocal refinement, advanced dance routines, and intensive rap sessions. Additionally, you will start working on group performances."

Group performances? This was a new and exciting twist. The idea of working closely with other trainees to create a cohesive and powerful performance thrilled me. We were divided into smaller groups, and I was paired with three other trainees: Jiwoo, Hana, and Soojin.

Our first task as a group was to choose a song and choreography for our performance. After some discussion, we decided on a powerful and energetic track that showcased all our strengths. The next few weeks were filled with rehearsals, late-night practice sessions, and endless encouragement as we worked to perfect our routine.

Jiwoo was a phenomenal dancer, her movements fluid and precise. Hana had an incredible voice, hitting high notes effortlessly. Soojin was a natural rapper, her verses sharp and compelling. Together, we balanced each other out, each bringing something unique to the table.

As our performance day approached, the pressure mounted. We knew this was our chance to prove ourselves as a cohesive unit. We practiced tirelessly, refining every move and note until we were in perfect sync.

Finally, the day arrived. We stood backstage, waiting for our turn. The other groups went before us, each performance raising the bar. When our names were called, we took a deep breath and stepped onto the stage.

The music started, and we moved as one. The countless hours of practice paid off as we executed each step and note flawlessly. The energy was electric, and I could feel the audience's engagement. We gave it our all, and as the final note rang out, the room erupted into applause.

We left the stage, our hearts pounding but filled with a sense of accomplishment. The feedback from the trainers was positive, praising our teamwork and individual talents.

As we awaited the final results, I reflected on how far we had come. The journey had been challenging, but it had also been incredibly rewarding. No matter the outcome, I knew I had grown immensely as a performer and as a person.

When the final announcements were made, we learned that our group had been selected to perform at an upcoming showcase event, a huge step forward in our training. The excitement and pride were overwhelming. This was the opportunity we had been working so hard for.

With renewed determination, we plunged back into training, preparing for the showcase. The journey was far from over, but I was ready for every challenge and triumph that lay ahead. Surrounded by supportive friends and driven by my passion, I knew I was on the right path to achieving my dream.

The days leading up to the showcase were a whirlwind of rehearsals and fine-tuning. Our group spent countless hours perfecting our performance, ensuring every detail was flawless. The bond between Jiwoo, Hana, Soojin, and me grew stronger with each practice session, our mutual support and encouragement driving us forward.

The night of the showcase arrived, and the atmosphere backstage was charged with anticipation. We could hear the murmur of the audience as they settled into their seats. Our hearts raced, but we were ready. When our turn came, we took our places on stage, the bright lights shining down on us.

As the music started, all nerves melted away. We moved as one, our performance a seamless blend of vocals, dance, and rap. The energy we had worked so hard to cultivate radiated through our movements and voices, captivating the audience.

When we finished, the applause was deafening. We exchanged triumphant smiles, knowing we had given our best performance yet. Backstage, the trainers congratulated us, their praise validating our hard work.

That night, as we celebrated our success, I realized this was just the beginning. The journey ahead would be demanding, but with my friends by my side and my dream within reach, I felt ready to face anything.

Chapter 4>>>

[a-d-nox]

Hi, I read all the planet return post but the lunar return is absent. Can you make one when you have time, thank you so much . I love your blog

what's a lunar return?

did you know that you can check more than just your sun's return? any time a planet/ luminary transits and becomes exactly conjunct your natal planet/luminary (it is in the exact sign and degree it was when you were born), you undergo a return. lunar returns happen roughly every month.

but what can a lunar return chart show you?

what your emotional responses/state is like this cycle. how your emotional guide you to act. the type of emotional reactions/outburst you are prone to. the care you seek/give this cycle. what your comfort zone is and is like this cycle. how you experience femininity this cycle. feminine health/reproduction. how your maternal figure effects you this cycle. how family in general effects you. how your childhood effects you this cycle. the nurturing instincts you have this cycle. how maternal you are this cycle. how adaptable you are this cycle. habits you have this cycle. how comfortable you will feel this cycle.

paid reading options: astrology menu & cartomancy menu

enjoy my work? help me continue creating by tipping on ko-fi or paypal. your support keeps the magic alive!

sun

how your ego effects your emotional state, your identity in your family, how who you are is effected by your emotions, how emotionally strong you are, how your emotions attract attention this cycle, stoicism, how your emotions inspire you creatively, maternal authority, authority you have over emotions (yours and others), how pride effects your emotions, prideful/ego-driven havits you have this cycle, generous habits you have this cycle, emotional individuality, emotional development, your emotional dignity, your emotional consciousness/awareness, what make you happy this cycle, how well you adapt you others happiness and joyfulness, emotional validation you seek this cycle, maternal validation you seek this cycle, and how you emotionally expression yourself

moon

how you consistently feel, how you emotional response to those around you, how you should be focusing on your self-care, where you feel most comfortable, what your femininity is like this cycle, what your maternal figure is like this cycle, what your family is like this cycle, where you are entering a new phase of your life this cycle, how your childhood effects you this cycle, how adaptable you are this cycle, and habits you have this cycle

mercury

how emotionally charged communication is, the emotional mind, emotional health, how emotions effect your perception, journaling, what social media might be a comfort - what makes it comforting, emotional attachment to phone, emotionally driven mannerisms, emotional reasoning, emotional change (in general), and how emotions will cloud your thinking

venus

your emotional response to love, emotions that run high in your romances, who fulfills your emotional needs, feminine beauty, sympathy you have for others, comforts that bring you pleasure, emotional harmony, femininity and feminine health, what is typical in your cycles, sentimentality surrounding your childhood, what you share emotionally, how you cooperate with your family members this cycle, what aesthetic you resonate with this cycle (what style trends you end up following), family values, family festivities occurring this cycle, what makes you cheery this cycle, how your emotional state causes perceived laziness (possibility of depressive thoughts and feelings), vaginal health, and feminine sensuality

mars

what makes you seem passionate, how ambitious you feel this cycle, lust you feel, anger/aggression/aggressiveness, your temper, self-assurance you feel regarding your femininity, your ability to adapt new tasks/activities into your schedule this cycle, the emotional energy you have this cycle, emotional combativeness, and familial combativeness

jupiter

luck with fertility, abundant emotions, emotional wealth, success at adapting to change, opportunity to change, popularity within your family, expansion of your family this cycle, emotional knowledge gain, emotional transparency, travel habits this cycle, the ease of change, justice within your family, family law (divorce, marriage, custody, etc), emotional exploration, your vision of comfort, and devotion to your family

saturn

difficult/challenging emotions, how to achieve, karma/karmic lessons within the family or with women, fears originating in childhood, change you delay, emotional limitations, how well you school your emotions, your childhood's effect on today, emotional deficiency, how closed off you are emotionally, control you have over your emotional, emotional stability, emotional maturity, emotional detachment, and emotional consistency

uranus

how socialization effects your emotional state, how technology effects your emotional state, comfort movies/shows, sudden changes that force you to adapt or out of your comfort zone, emotional ups and downs, rebellion against your mother/family, freedom from your family's expectations, feeling shocked, and chaotic emotions

neptune

how you show yourself kindness, compassion you show others, creative hobbies you use to bring you comfort, emotional sensitivity (where you are most sensitive and of what), selflessness you face regarding your family, escapism from the hardships of life, what emotions you hide from others, how your imagination brings you comfort, anxiety - the lies your brain tells you, familial mysteries, the mask you wear - emotional poker faces, and how spirituality aids your emotional state

pluto

transformation in your family, power struggle between you and your mother, emotional sex, emotional intimacy, emotional death (apathy), intensity, the masculine gaze, emotional obsession, emotional manipulation, feminine sexual organs, extreme emotions, and emotional outbursts

1h

how your identity changes, how comfortable you are with yourself, emotions others see in you, how your emotions effect your outlook on life, how your body changes, and feminine beauty

2h

how your finances change, the comfort material possessions give you, retail therapy, how childhood is effecting your self worth this cycle, emotional security, emotional stability, how you sound when you cry, the care you are giving/receiving this cycle, and emotional resources you have

3h

how you communicate your feelings, communication with you family, your mind's emotional state, how your feelings effects your perception, emotions you are conscious of, how gossip effects you emotionally, how social media effects you emotionally, emotional attachment to your phone, phone calls with your family/mother, and visits with your family/mother

4h

how your childhood effects your home, connection you have with your family this cycle, your relationship with your mother this cycle, how you treat/protect your inner child this cycle, emotional responses, new self-care habits you participate in this cycle, and your femininity

5h

your connection with children, how you reconnection with your inner child, family/maternal drama, emotions surrounding your romances, comfort that hobbies give you, what gives you pleasure, fertility this cycle, and what brings you joy this cycle

6h

your daily routine this cycle, how adaptable to new tasks you are this cycle, how your health is this cycle, familial duties, how you seek to improve yourself this cycle, new consistency you have this cycle, how your hygiene changes this cycle, how your emotions may cause you to over analyze/think, changes in your diet, and job changes

7h

how your long term relationships change, marriage ceremonies, bridal parties, care you give others, conflict between women, familial partnerships, family businesses, emotional cheating, and sharing your emotions/feelings

8h

emotional transformation, the end of a phase in your life, long term change, familial change, joint/shared finances, emotional investment, what you inherit from your mother/family, feminine reproductive organs, emotional seduction, emotional intimacy, changes in your habits, family secrets/mystery, family psychology, feminine surgery/operations (gender affirming surgery, breast reduction/augmentation, tubal, hysterectomy, etc), familial trauma, and the emotional period in your life

9h

emotional wisdom, family law (divorce, marriage, custody, etc), beliefs originating in childhood, viewpoints of others, family in-law, comfort shows, and your grandparents

10h

your family legacy, how your career shows you care for others, your family's reputation, your responsibilities regarding your family, and recognition you receive from your family

11h

family friends, new habits you gain, emotional desires, step family, comfort movies, emotional awareness, familial influence, how your emotions manifest, family politics, and what your debut into society does for your family

12h

emotional healing, hidden emotions, emotional mental health, isolation within the family, the illusion of habits, emotional fears, familial losses, escapism from reality to your comfort zone, emotional closure, family in the afterlife, limiting beliefs, emotional self-undoing, your childhood, and emotional restrictions

have ideas for new content? please use my “suggest a post topic” button! 

return to nox’s guide to metaphysics

return to the masterlist of return charts

© a-d-nox 2024 all rights reserved

[blue1amory]

A cute blind soul

bts ot7 x reader

Chapter 2

～*～♡～*～♥～*～♡～*～♥～*～♡～*～♥～*～♡～*～

On the eve of Selia's twentieth birthday, she found herself unable to find restful slumber. Perhaps it was the building anticipation and nervousness that kept her awake, causing her to let out a heavy sigh. Determined to ease her restless mind, Selia reached for her white cane and gracefully rose from her bed. Guided by her cane, she skillfully navigated her way through the familiar hallways of her home until she reached the kitchen. However, as she neared the kitchen, she realized that her aunt's voice filled the space, accompanied by the sound of something crashing to the ground.

Concerned for her aunt's wellbeing, Selia called out, inquiring about her aunt's state. "Auntie, are you alright?" she asked aloud, her voice laced with genuine worry.

To Selia's surprise, her aunt responded with a hint of exasperation, seeking to understand why her niece was not in her bed. "Selia, it is imperative that you retire to your bed as the present hour demands restful repose. Tomorrow presents itself as a consequential day requiring your utmost alertness and preparedness. Allow me to offer my assistance in conveying you to your designated sleeping quarters."

"I apologize for my dissenting position, but it is incumbent upon me to declare my inability to partake in sleep at this particular juncture. Hence, I have ventured downstairs seeking solace."

"Selia," her aunt spoke in a firm tone, "Allow me to prepare a soothing cup of tea infused with honey, and let us engage in a brief conversation. However, it is imperative that you retire to bed afterwards. Do you comprehend? Tomorrow marks your twentieth birthday, a significant milestone, as it signifies the imminent revelation of your soulmate. Rest is essential.

Selia nodded in agreement, her aunt swiftly attending to the task of concocting the tea.

"In addition," her aunt remarked with a hint of pride, "I have noticed that you scarcely rely on your white cane anymore. This is a commendable development."

Selia's aunt extended the tea-filled vessel into her niece's grasp, facilitating the transmission of warmth from the ceramic receptacle to Selia's receptive palm. The tactile sensation of the heat diffusing through her skin elicited a sense of comfort and familiarity. With the intention of achieving an optimal temperature, Selia judiciously allowed the contents to undergo a modest cooling period, a strategic pause before imbibing.

Following a span of several minutes, during which the tea underwent a subtle transformation from its initial temperature to an agreeable state, Selia elected to engage in a sippage ritual. Drawing the rim of the vessel to her lips, she orchestrated a contact point between her oral cavity and the liquid contents. The ensuing gustatory encounter was marked by the immediate discernment of the intermingling nuances of mint and honey within the tea's composition. This orchestrated amalgamation yielded a sensory experience that transcended the realm of mere gustatory gratification, culminating in an equilibrium that harmonized the two constituent flavors to a state of faultless equilibrium—a manifestation of culinary prowess emblematic of a harmonious blend.

Auntie inquired of Selia, "Pray, disclose the reasons behind your sleeplessness. What concerns plague your mind? For I am cognizant that you do not slumber, indicative of a troubling matter that preoccupies your thoughts."

Selia, releasing a profound sigh, delicately raised the teacup to her lips and took a sip before mustering a response. "I am apprehensive, Auntie," she whispered tentatively, her voice tinged with vulnerability. "What if, upon encountering my soulmate, be it a he, she, or they, they find me undesirable due to my visual impairment? I fear abandonment, for I cannot bear the thought of being cast aside on account of my blindness." Her lips quivered slightly, betraying her inner turmoil.

Selia was enveloped in the nurturing embrace of her aunt, who spoke in a comforting tone, seeking to assuage her anxieties. "Dear Selia, it is unwise to burden yourself with such concerns. As previously stated, soulmates are destined to embrace and accept your authentic self. Should anyone exhibit unkindness or harbor an aversion towards you due to your visual impairment, it is evident that they were never meant to be your true soulmate. In such an unfortunate circumstance, we shall pen a missive to the divine beings, beseeching their intervention. If they concur with our plea, they possess the ability to alter the course of your soulmate's identity. Therefore, I implore you, cast aside your worries in this matter."

Selia tightly embraced her aunt, seeking solace in the warmth of their bond, before reluctantly releasing their grasp.

"Ah, I observe that you have already consumed your tea. Very well, it is time to retire for the night. Allow me to assist you," her aunt declared.

Selia, clutching her white cane firmly, intertwined her arm with her aunt's, entrusting herself to the guidance offered as they embarked on their journey towards her chamber.

Upon reaching the destination, Selia was gently positioned upon her bed by her attentive aunt, ensuring her comfort. Her white cane found its familiar resting place, serving as a constant companion within arm's reach.

"Sleep well, my dear," her aunt whispered tenderly, their lips gently grazing Selia's forehead. Gradually, the presence of her aunt dissipated, leaving Selia alone in the tranquility of her room. Gradually, the weight of the day's worries began to recede, lulling her into a peaceful slumber.

[inghrafn]

Last-day-of-vacation anxiety with all the trimmings

Over the last week, my time and my MIND was my own. I did things I WANTED to do. I gardened, wrote, rested, puttered around, cooked good food, spent quality time with my spouse, had good interactions with friends. I also enjoyed a lot of solitude and silence. With so much time to feel unselfconscious and free, I was kinder to myself and felt at home in my ND states. Having to relinquish that is what makes me feel anxious.

By this time tomorrow, I'll be back in a crowded, noisy office full of clashing agendas and personalities. It will probably take me most of the day to clear aside a mountain of supply order boxes just so I can sit at my own desk. Anything I put on pause will be staring me in the face, along with new assignments and deadlines. Everyone will want to get me up to speed on the latest office intrigues. And I will plunge right back into serving a public which can be especially combative during Pride Month. I know that all this is going to produce panic very quickly, and I am already gathering my self-defense weapons (noise blockers, security objects, organizing tools, etc.)

On Thursday I have a meeting with the neuropsychologist who did my baseline cognitive assessment six years ago. It's time to undergo another so that a comparative study can be done. I really don't feel like it's going to tell me anything I don't already know. My brain is a heady cocktail of neurodivergencies garnished with a frontal lobe tumor. My problems with speech, comprehension, coordination, memory, and task execution have intensified since my last workup. Back then, the neuropsychologist breezily attributed my symptoms to anxiety and recommended counselling. I ended up with a therapist who "diagnosed" me as a Hufflepuff (??!!!) and advised me to use the brain-training app Peak. I hated it. How on earth would screen-tap baby puzzles help me with my inability to recall the names of colleagues, friends, and (sometimes) my own spouse? or produce words for common items like forks, washcloths, or scissors? or drive a route I've taken a million times before without getting utterly lost?

Whatever. If having a week to myself does anything, it's to assure me that I am what I am, grey areas included, and I'm tired of coming up with workarounds to being myself. Now off to the garden center for more soil for raised garden beds, a pot or two, and maybe that sage I've had my eye on...

[currinsrnznships]

HMS Somerset home after busy time tracking Russian warships and doing Nato drills 11th April 2025 at 4:20pm HMS Somerset has returned after tracking Russian warships in UK waters (Picture: Royal Navy) Royal Navy warship HMS Somerset has returned to Plymouth after more than 100 days at sea, including six missions tracking Russian naval vessels in UK waters. The Type 23 frigate was recalled from Christmas leave to monitor a Russian task group moving through the North Sea, cutting short the festive break for the 200-strong ship’s company. Since then, Somerset has sailed more than 18,000 nautical miles, mostly around the English Channel and North Sea, shadowing Russian corvettes, landing and support ships, cargo vessels and the intelligence-gathering ship Yantar. Sitrep: UK carrier strike group shows ‘credible force’ without US ships, says retired commodore HMS Prince of Wales is leading Carrier Strike Group 25 – but who’s sailing with her? Carrier Strike Group to trial drones for delivering supplies during Far East deployment Commander Joel Roberts, HMS Somerset’s Commanding Officer, said: “After many months away, it is with immense pride and joy that I welcome our return home from a successful deployment. “Our presence has made a real and tangible difference in delivering UK national security objectives and reinforcing Nato’s mission of collective security, unity, and deterrence.” During the deployment, HMS Somerset also operated closely with Nato allies, making port visits in Den Helder, Bergen, Stavanger, Zeebrugge and Hamburg. The ship also stopped in North Shields, Aberdeen and Clyde Naval Base. More than 1,000 members of the public visited the ship during an open day in Hamburg. HMS Somerset’s Merlin helicopter, from 814 Naval Air Squadron, clocked up 100 flying hours. It was used to gather intelligence on Russian warships and took part in anti-submarine warfare training during Exercise Arctic Dolphin in the Norwegian fjords. There, HMS Somerset and her Merlin crew worked with Nato submarines – some of whose captains were undergoing the Submarine Command Course, also known as “the Perisher”. The exercise saw HMS Somerset simulate attacks and carry out high-speed manoeuvres to push trainee commanders to their limits. The ship’s company is now back in Devonport and preparing for well-earned leave. Tags and categories: All other Navies and Military via WordPress https://ift.tt/VgtaYpo April 12, 2025 at 03:09PM