#he has fiercely protected his son from devils

[knightcallie]

Baldur's Bounties: His Family

Weichei was not a hot single in their area! Maybe he should tell the marriage schemes during bounty hunting later...

The party learning that Weichei actually was married was, a whole thing. It kind of made Weichei laugh, maybe a little shy. Yes, he had two husbands, one had passed away. Did he marry rather young by elven standards? Yes, perhaps, but that didn’t matter.

Temerity, his childhood best friend and his first romance. An albino tiefling, from rags to riches, he’s become Fenim’s brightest rockstar in the music industry. They grew up together, and despite everything, they still stayed connected. Temerity was loud, rambunctious, never to be quiet ever again. He vowed to never be an untold story, an unsung melody. Sure, maybe he has a loose filter, but he always cared and loved strongly for those he held close. He did, always for Cheri. He loved the drow intensely, never letting him forget that he was loved.

Beau was the bassist cellist of the band Temerity formed. He currently was still alive, a strong stoic wood elf (autumn eladrin ancestry). He was a gentle lover, having fallen in love with the drow for just how passionate and adorable he was. He had originally wanted Weichei and Temerity to marry first, he can come later. Though, that was dashed considering they both ended up planning a ring and had part of it commissioned. He loved them both to pieces, caring for them and feeding them both well.

Weichei had even made marriage beads to wear himself, as that was what his Vaddy did for him and Mumu. Temerity’s a glass bead swirled with red and white with a strip of gold in the middle, while Beau’s was a dark oak bead with tiny green oak leaves carved the middle. Rings were a common marriage custom, but down in Fenim’s Underdark, creating hair accessories for their intended was the way to go for the drows.  

The poly had four children. The first were the twins, Melian and Belamour. Both meaning some form of love, so they would never forget they were loved. Melian took more of the tiefling traits, her lavender skin a mix of Temerity and Weichei. She took up the drow’s love of artificing, growing the gadget empire. Belamour took more of the elven traits, her dark drow skin taking a more warm green tone. Though, they did find teeny tiny horns hiding in her curls. She took on Temerity’s and Beau’s profession, leading her own band called The Unsung.

The last two came a little later. There’s this runaway, a human forcibly turned into a tiefling. Archdevil Levistus wanted to finally break free and take over the Nine Hells for himself. They had found Niven when he was partially transformed, where his skin still partially showed his light medium tone before it was engulfed in ice blue and icicles. His legs turned hooven like a goat, eyes pitch black. A crown of horns were still rather small when they found him, afraid and defensive and ice cold. (It reminded Weichei so much of Temerity, back when they were children.) It took so much time and patience and kindness, and perhaps still too clingy for his age. But after what they went through together, it was understandable. (Sometimes, Weichei could still hear the shattering of the ice when he put a hole in that archdevil).

Finally, Raihin, who looked far more like Beau than the others. Her skin was warm, her eyes a kinder red that could be mistaken as brown. Her hair was looser and nearly white like Temerity’s, her bark horns standing tall like a beacon. She’s a stepping stone for those making the journey back to Paeon, to the Oak Father. She was the warm welcome, caring for those who desired rest for just a moment. The three daughters had spouses, children (blood-related or not) of their own, and Weichei sometimes looks through the memories of them in the pocket mirror. Niven only recently began a platonic relationship, still learning and understanding.

Going through the pictures, showing the group each and every one had Weichei’s heart aching. Oh how he wished he could tell his family that he was doing okay, albeit with a little passenger at the moment. Oh how he wished he could contact the Trades about what’s happened in the last few months. He had people awaiting him back home, people who held him in their person.

[shiorimakibawrites]

Congratulations on your 300 followers dear, you're awesome and you deserve this! 🥳❤️❤️❤️

I'll start with Inside The Mind: what headcanons do you have for girl father!Matt? I would reeeally love to know what you think about it!

Have an awesome day my love! 🥰❤️❤️❤️

Thank you, Yuna! 😉

Thank you for the request and here are my headcanons:

Girl father! Matt Murdock

When asked before the birth, Matt said that all he wanted was a healthy baby. He had a few idle thoughts about what it might be like to have a son or a daughter. But for the most part, being healthy was his own real concern.

He really didn’t understand those fathers who were disappointed by having a girl. From the moment she was placed in his arms, this little person was the sweetest, most beautiful person in the entire world. How could anyone not love her?

As you may have gathered from that statement, his daughter had Matt wrapped around her little finger from day one.

Not in letting her get away with anything kind of way but in that he will cheerfully indulge her desire to give him a make-over, braid his hair, drink pretend-tea out of tiny teacups, solemnly evict the monster under the bed, etc.

Thinks his heart is going to melt out of his chest when his daughter expresses a desire to learn how to “read with her hands, just like Daddy.”

Matt is fiercely protective of her, willing and ready to use every single tool at his disposal to keep her safe - the law, his fists, the works.

Agonizes over the things that he can’t protect her from. Like the terrible things she hears if she inherited his senses or any of the other pains from his senses (he wouldn’t wish the migraines on anyone, let alone his own child).

Education is important to him. The kid doesn’t need to get perfect grades but he does expect good ones. Struggling with a subject is okay, as long as she is doing her best and he’ll help find tutors or whatever else she needs to pass.

Better understands his own father and his fears upon witnessing his daughter’s fierce temper and need for justice, knowing both how powerful and dangerous that fire can be. Seeks to temper it, channel it into safer waters like law or medicine. Fears that he will fail.

Regardless, he does train her and prays that at best it will simply be good exercise and at worst, defense is all she ever has to use it for.

When boyfriends (or girlfriends) start wandering by, Matt makes sure they know that if they mistreat his daughter, he will be unhappy. And that he’s rather unpleasant when he’s unhappy. Then he smiles and he knows it’s not a nice smile. Because this isn’t Matt Murdock, Attorney at Law speaking, this is the Devil of Hell’s Kitchen (Peter says that being old enough to have a teenage daughter has not made Matt any less terrifying when he wants to be).

Considers his threats more subtle than Frank’s (who made a point of cleaning his guns or sharpening his knives whenever someone came calling after his daughter). Others dispute this.

That being said, he will 100% cry at the wedding.

[weministertomonsters]

Naga Father (Araza) x gender-neutral reader - 2

"Just a few kids from school won't hurt, Mr. Araza. You have to give Sam a chance at a normal life," you say in exasperation, shaking some food into your cat's bowl and balancing the phone against your shoulder.

You've been babysitting Sam occasionally for a few months, enough to feel somewhat comfortable with pressing the subject of holding a birthday party for Sam.

"He's not normal," is Mr. Araza's reply, and you grit your teeth for a second before you blow your breath out slowly, forcing yourself to calm down.

"I know you're trying to toughen him up in your own way... But he's going to end up hating you if you don't ease up now and then. Sam is smart, you know. He can figure out how to live in a world of humans on his own."

"I know what's best for my son," Mr. Araza says, and you hear the shuffle of papers in the background.

"Oh, are you working? Did my call interrupt you? Sorry, I'll hang up now. Just think about it, okay?"

Before he has the chance to respond, you hang up.

"He's a tough nut to crack, Ginger," you say to your orange cat who is happily crunching down on his food. "I wonder what happened to make him like that?"

On a whim, you grab your phone and look his name up. There he is, featured in an article from a prominent news station. He was one of the two nagas rescued from a monster trafficking ring that got busted fifteen years ago. There's a picture of him with the other monsters that were rescued. He's staring blankly at the camera, a blanket wrapped around his thin shoulders. The other naga was too weak and passed away in the hospital. Everything makes sense now.

You put your phone down and stare hard at the wall. No wonder he's so fiercely protective of his son and pushing him to survive the best he can. Your phone buzzes and you look down to see a text from your best friend, Cora.

Hi Tobi, it reads, I know this is short notice, but I totally forgot I had a marriage counseling appointment today and we can't leave Annabelle alone! Do you have 2 hours to spare? I made chocolate chip cookies this morning!

A smile curves onto your lips and you type a reply.

I'll be there in 10 minutes

Cora only lives a couple of blocks away, so you end up walking there. Cora and her wife are in the driveway, ready to leave.

"Tobi, you're an angel!" Cora says, coming forward. "I present to you my devil spawn."

Annabelle squirms restlessly in her mother's grip, nibbling on her forearm. The five-year-old had new teeth coming in and apparently, her mother's arm is a serviceable chew toy.

"She's got a ton of energy today," you laugh and scoop her up.

The pup smells like baby shampoo and cookies. You wave her parents off and hoist her onto your shoulder.

"So what do you want to do?" You ask her.

"I want ice cream!" She yells, her knee catching you in the ribs.

"Oof. Isn't it a little too close to lunch?"

"I want a burger too! With cheese!"

"Demanding, aren't you? An alpha in the making for sure. Okay. We'll have burgers and ice cream. Just don't tell your mommy okay?"

She grins and nods. The commercial strip is within walking distance and even if it's a bit far away you figure Annabelle could use a long walk. As you walk together you're making a mental note not to marry a werewolf. Even a half-werewolf would be hyper, but Annabelle is out of this world. She's so bouncy that half the time her feet aren't even on the ground. You're forced to herd her around now and then so she doesn't hop off the sidewalk.

You're relieved when you reach the ice cream shop because it has a fenced-in playground.

"I'm going to make a sandcastle!" Annabelle shrieks, charging towards the sandbox.

"Okay, darling." You grab your phone and text Cora.

Bestie, what's up with Belle today?

Too much sugar :( my bad. I caved and let her have frosted flakes for breakfast Cora texts back.

Oh boy. Then ice cream is going to be a bad idea. Idly you walk up to the swings, wondering how you're going to convince her to get something else. And then you notice Mr. Araza and freeze. He pauses too, looking down at you. You have to put a hand up to your face to hide your grin because he's on the monkey bars. It's sturdy enough to hold his weight, but he looks ridiculous. His son is underneath, head craned up to look up at his father.

"Hello," you say politely.

"Papa is stuck," Sam says, turning to look at you. "Help him, Tobi."

You gulp down a burst of laughter and bite your lip hard, trying not to let your amusement show. Mr. Araza's golden eyes narrow, and his tongue flicks out, tasting the air. His eyes turn into annoyed slits and he lets out a huff. His tail is wound through the rather sophisticated monkey bars, and you can see he's stuck in more than one place.

"How did you even get up there?" You ask.

"I was... Teaching Sam how to climb," he says, and you can't help the small laugh you make this time.

"I do not find this humorous, neither should you," he hisses. "My tail is going numb. If it's not too much trouble, I would appreciate a hand."

You glance down at Sam. "Hey, I brought a friend with me, and she's the same age as you. Maybe you could play together?"

Sam looks doubtfully at Annabelle, who has forgotten about her sandcastle and is digging a hole in the sandbox. Then he nods and shyly slithers over to say hello. You turn back to Mr. Araza and put your game face on.

"How about I make you a deal? Promise to actually think about throwing a party for Sam, and I'll help you."

His pupils widen in shock. "You can't be serious," he scoffs.

You reach out and poke at his tail. "I dunno, Mr. Araza. You seem stuck pretty good."

"For heaven's sake," he rolls his eyes and his shoulders slump a little. "Fine. Quickly now, I look ridiculous."

You grin. "Then it's a deal," you say and walk around him in a slow circle, calculating.

You're not sure how you're going to get him out. The monkey bars are about six feet high, and he's right on top.

"Okay, I think I've got this," you say and begin to climb.

The next ten minutes are the most awkward ones of your life. You almost fall off twice. Mr. Araza twists his upper body to look at you, and his mouth turns down.

"You're going to hurt yourself this way."

"I'm good," you say, hooking your feet against the bars as you grab the thinnest section of his tail at the end. "You've kind of tied yourself into a knot here, mister," you tell him. "Can you move the end of your tail to the left?"

His tail moves, the end of it curling around your wrist.

"Okay," you mumble.

You succeed in freeing that section and move upwards.

"You're not a cat, you know. You can't fit in just any space," you tell him and you wrap your arms around his tail and press your chest against it like you're about to lift something really heavy.

Which is exactly what you're about to do. His tail is a solid hunk of muscle, his scales rasping against your bare arms. Maybe you press a little too hard or something, but he hisses and it's not a  normal hiss. It's a "get your fucking hands off me right now" kind of hiss.

You jerk your hands back. "Sorry, sorry," you say.

You have just touched softer, more sensitive parts of his tail where scales have been ripped away. Naga scales are incredibly hard to damage or remove but after your research this morning, you can guess how that happened.

His claws clank against the bars as he repositions himself. He won't look at you but maybe that's a good thing. If he looks at you, he'll be able to tell that you know.

"Just get on with it," he mumbles, wiping sweat from his forehead.

You take a deep breath and carry on. He doesn't make a single sound after that, not even when you have to pull so hard that he shudders.

"Need some help?" An employee from the ice cream shop calls over, finally having noticed.

"No, I've got it," you call back.

Just one more section to go. Araza is sprawled on the monkey bars, his torso pressing against them. That can't be comfortable. The way he's gone so still and pliant worries you.

"Are you okay?"

He nods, his hair falling over his face.

"Look at me," you command. "Please?"

He darts a furtive glance over his shoulder. His eyes are glassy, like he's partly somewhere else. Not good. Quickly, you balance your feet on the bars and tug. He comes free and falls off the monkey bars with a thud, taking you with him.

"We're okay," you say to Sam and Annabelle, who look up curiously.

"They're playing," Annabelle giggles to her new friend.

Sam looks worried, but then smiles and goes back to playing. You realize your legs are tangled up in his tail and gently extract them.

"You okay?"

He shoots upright, rolling over to the underside of his tail is against the floor.

"I'm fine. Thank you," he says airily, brushing leaves out of his hair.

All signs of vulnerability are gone.

"Great," you say, trying not to sound too bright as you stand up and dust yourself off. "I'm sure you won't do that again," you laugh.

He flexes his claws. "I have learned a valuable lesson. Your human trappings are terrible replacements for trees."

"Try a park next time," you suggest. "Were you here for ice cream?"

"I promised him a reward for his hard work in school. I did not think he would suggest such a ridiculous-"

"We're here for ice cream too!" You say brightly. "How about we all go in and get some?"

If Mr. Araza is about to protest, Annabelle's excited screaming knocks it out of him.

"Please do not tell me that is your child," he says flatly. "She is untrained."

"She's just a kid," you say. "She can be very loud, I'll give her that."

"Come on," you tell the two children, "let's go get ice cream."

Later on, after you've dropped off a sleeping Annabelle- amazingly enough - at her home and gone home with a gift of a box of chocolate chip cookies, you get a call from Mr. Araza.

"I have made up my mind," he says.

"About the birthday party?"

"Yes," he says, and you begin to dance in triumph.

"On one condition," he adds sharply. "I don't know what a party entails. I'll need your help."

"Oh, you don't have to ask twice!" You say happily.

Maybe the upright naga is finally warming up to a little living...

~ • ~ • ~ • ~

The amount of times I mention "ice cream" in here, lol! 😭

[ape-apocalypse]

Road To The Kingdom - Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes Comics

The comic simply labeled as Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes is set between the films Rise and Dawn. Two years since the Simian Flu swept through humanity, we follow the tales of two characters who will be at the center of Dawn, Koba and Malcolm. With the realization that power is failing and his wife has become sick with the deadly disease, Malcolm sets off to find a way to save her. He encounters human traffickers that put his family at risk and a new community that might offer sanctuary. Meanwhile, Caesar sends an ape named Pope to know the land around their new home better. But when Pope goes rogue, Koba must deal with the fallout. 

Malcolm's dedication to protecting his family is really on display in this comic. He leads them on an impossible quest to find a cure that doesn't exist and constantly puts them in danger. But they also encounter a new group (who may be the start of Dreyfus' group in San Francisco, this is not certain but seems hinted at) who rescue them from an ambush and give them new hope. This backstory is not really needed for Malcolm's character in the movie Dawn but it is still interesting to see his history and to watch humanity's descent from the height of society. His dying wife, Rita, is a great contrast to Malcolm. While his optimism will serve him well to seek a peace between apes and humans, she is much more practical. Her coldness and sacrifice at the end of the comic to save her son were very touching.

As always, to me at least, the story of the apes is the most interesting. Though Pope's betrayal against Caesar may clash with the head ape's refusal to even consider that Koba would go against him in the film, I find it interesting how quick he jumps to brutality and dominating the unenhanced zoo apes. This leads to great characterization of Koba, who looks downright gentle with the zoo apes. He's grown from the ape in Firestorm who called apes that couldn't sign 'big fuzzy caterpillars' and shows compassion to them... of course, not too much compassion as he still leaves trapped humans to their fate and reacts fiercely to Pope's taunts that he belongs in a cage. I also love the irony of Koba being the one who came up with the law 'ape not kill ape', a law that he will soon so thoroughly break in the film. 

Pope's line that Caesar would send Maurice if he wanted peace or Koba if he wanted war really stood out to me. Caesar's inner circle is clearly established with Rocket as his second-in-command, Maurice as his third, and Koba as an advisor. Rocket will always follow Caesar's lead but Maurice and Koba are more vocal in their opinions. It gave me the mental image of the two apes as Caesar's shoulder angel and devil.

There are brief glimpses of Caesar and the growing ape community, including the birth of Ash, Rocket's son, and a moment between Caesar and Cornelia. It left me craving more, as I always want to learn more about the ape society but the story is focused outside of Caesar's domain.

Though the story is relatively small and not action packed compared to other tie-in media, what I like about this story is that the driving conflict is not apes vs humans. It's two separate stories of internal conflict in the species. Aside from Pope's brief attack on humans as they look for food, it is entirely ape vs ape and human vs human. It makes it one of the more unique stories within the POTA world, and shows how neither side is completely innocent, with each species being willing to harm their own people. I'll admit that I tend to skim through Malcolm's parts and focus on Pope and Koba, but both points of view, both human and ape, make for an interesting story.

Intro / Previous / Next

[blue-rose-soul]

The Devil's Dear Friend - A What if?

Alastor's connection to Lucifer was overwritten when he tried to save his mother from her employer and was killed first. He ended up in heaven for his sacrifice.

Nicaise was not granted the same reward. One moment she was screaming and holding her son, the next she was alone and staring up at a blood red sky.

A century later, Charlie hears a knock on her door and opens it to find a fierce overlord literally marked by grief and wearing a bright smile. "Hello Princess! I heard you're looking to make some changes around here?"

I was about to start with how hypocritical that would be of Heaven, since the whole reason Nicaise even got in that altercation with her employer is because she was trying to protect Alastor in the first place. Then I remembered; Heaven's leadership is hypocritical, and even they don't know what the requirements to get in are.

I've always depicted Nicaise as a friendly and sweet person, but most of my posts about her take place after she'd been living in Heaven for almost a century. While she is a shrewd person who was suspicious of Heaven's leadership and knew there was something not quite right, she still lived in relative safety and comfort for a long period of time and could afford to relax her guard. On Earth she had it quite a bit harder as a woman of color as well as a single mother. Especially in the early 1900s. I imagine Nicaise as someone who actively chose to take joy wherever she could, but also a grounded person who did what she had to to make sure she and Alastor were okay. Nicaise took great pains to never let Alastor see her struggle and give the impression she always had every situation under control.

Gee, sounds familiar, don't it?

She built herself a strong support network, making as many friends as she could. During the day she cleaned wealthy people's homes and at night she played piano at the bar, to put food on the table. She made connections in both places, with other servants, with the bar staff and patrons, with shopkeepers and store owners, with just about anyone she could strike up a conversation with. She knew how to trade favors and get discounts and was able to build a relatively comfortable life even after her parents passed and she had no other family to help support her and Alastor.

In Hell, Nicaise again does what she needs to to survive. Even if that means making deals. I'm a little undecided on what sort of powers Nicaise would develop if any. In the main branch of the the Devil's Bastard AU I decided that the person Alastor made a deal with Eve, and that she specifically chose him because he is Lucifer's son. But Eve doesn't have any way of knowing about Nicaise mothering Lucifer's child in the Devil's Dear Friend so I don't have a reason for her to make a deal with Nicaise. She wouldn't manifest with overwhelming magical power like Alastor did, she would have to slowly build it up over time. Nicaise grew up Catholic because of her father, but her mother was vodou practitioner, so there could be some overlap in their abilities as Nicaise gets stronger.

So Nicaise forms connections, begins building a power base. Along the way she meets and befriends Rosie, and at some point or other sinners start looking to Nicaise for protection. Becoming an Overlord isn't something Nicaise set out to do, but she wields the title with pride. Sure, she's grown more ruthless over the years, more bloodthirsty, and sure, she hasn't thought about her son in... years now.

She did mourn at first. But these days she's, well, she's not exactly happy about it, but Nicaise is at least satisfied with the knowledge that Alastor is safe in Heaven. She has some criticisms but at least she knows her child isn't in any danger of being hunted down by an exorcist, or any of the more commonplace dangers of Hell. It's bittersweet, and she can't help but wonder why they had to take her away from her child, but on the day-to-day her main concern is with survival.

Eventually she does learn about the Royal Family and Princess Charlie Morningstar, but it isn't until Charlie's segment with Katie Killjoy that Nicaise actually gets an opportunity to meet her. Nicaise isn't sure what to make of the Happy Hotel project. She's not opposed to the idea that people could change for the better but, given she doesn't even know what she did to end up in Hell, she's not so certain Heaven would accept any damned souls even if they did. And as an Overlord, she knows full well how dangerous it is to show even a slight amount of weakness.

Still, she's intrigued. How could she not be? This girl is the Princess of Hell and she's trying to change one of the fundamental rules of How Things Work. Nicaise could get some answers. She could learn what she did that was so terrible that she was condemned to an eternity in Hell for it. She might even get a chance to see Alastor one last time.

If nothing else, there is an opportunity to get in good with the Princess of Hell, a powerful ally to be sure. Unlike most of the fools in Hell, she knows better than to dismiss Charlie's power just because she doesn't flaunt it.

At first she's not really counting on getting to meet Lucifer again just because she's made contact Charlie. After all, while Charlie was running around post-extermination rescuing survivors and treating their injuries, Lucifer remained holed up in isolation. Frankly, after her initial surprise that that little goofball she met at Mardi Gras years ago was Lucifer himself, she didn't think too much of him. He'd been out of reach to her for so long, and Nicaise preferred to focus on things within her scope of influence. When Charlie invites Lucifer to the Happy Hotel a month before the early extermination, Nicaise doesn't even expect him to recognize her.

He does. He very obviously does. Not only can she see it, so can everyone else with the way Lucifer stares at her, eyes wide, and says her name before being introduced.

Nicaise says the only thing she can think of to break the awkward atmosphere.

"Hello, Luci. I'm here for that child support you owe me."

[butterfrogmantis]

ARRRRRR YA READY KIDS?

Well, it happened. I got attached to the pirate crew and then other people got attached to the pirate crew and now we have a small crew! (with more potentials from other people I just had to put a cap on it yesterday)

Captain Bluebeard (Born: Blueblood Smurf) was the son of wealthy noblesmurfs who were murdered by pirates. As an adolescent he joins a sailing crew which is then plundered by pirates, and he’s given the option to die or join their side. He switches for fear of his life and spends years at sea as a pirate, until his ship is captured by Navy Smurfs. Blueblood narrowly escapes his execution and goes on to continue a life of piracy, having gotten a taste for it. He serves as the first mate aboard the ship that murdered his parents until overthrowing the captain, which is where he earns his title (and by now in his 400’s, his impressive beard, which becomes his new name and symbol).

Bluebeard starts a new crew under the name of “The Devil’s Sarsaparilla”

Bluebeard is … powerful man. Ruthless and merciless to his enemies and fiercely protective of his crew, essentially. He’s no stranger to high sea battles or negotiations or the ‘persuasion’ of Navy secrets via unscrupulous methods but he’s also a surprisingly fair boss and the crew, in return, are loyal to him which is how he maintains such a strong position.

Cutthroat was a pirate aboard the first ship Bluebeard was part of, but he’d traded ships before it was captured. Bluebeard knows him to be a cunning Smurf and good fighter and invited him on, and Cutthroat is honoured at the chance to be his first mate and lord his positon of authority over the rest of the crew (something Cutthroat loves to gloat about). An arguably even more bloodthirsty man than even the captain, Cutthroat has no patience for the shenanigans of the crewmen and delights in reporting Scallywag’s antics to Bluebeard so he may ‘deliver suitable punishment’.

Another weird thing to note about Cutthroat is that his stance on relationships often times comes across as extremely ‘holier than thou’ and very much into ‘marriage before anything’ and can be borderline homophobic, despite the fact he’s so clearly in love with Bluebeard in some other sense of the word. (This is the character that’s lowkey just a mockery of a certain someone’s stuff to make Cutthroat seem nonsensical to the other character’s and even more ruthless and also his descendant Brainy is gay so ya boo sucks to him). Note this ONLY applies to Cutthroat, Bluebeard himself doesn’t really care what his crew are into as long as they’re good pirates and whilst I can’t speak for other people’s ocs Swashbuckler is … well idk but he’s straightn’t so he takes extra delight in helping Scallywag hide a lobster in Cutthroat’s pillow.

Cookie … really should not be on a pirate ship? Note it’s possible she has a nature name but the crew call her Cookie after her speciality biscuits. She’s a sweetheart and despite the plundering’s of her crewmate remains as such. There’s rumours she’s the aunt of one of the men who was just like ‘yeah ik we’re pirates but she’ll turn the nasty slop we’ve been eating into a 5 star meal’ so Bluebeard was just like ‘eh’ and Cookie became the ship’s mom. That’s not to say she doesn’t have her own secrets …

@chaoticsimp15's bean Herbalist! A transmasc pioneer of natural medicines and a worthy adversary to the ship where cuts and stab wounds are plentiful. Herbalist lost an arm to amputation following a poisoning and despite run ins with other dangerous plants like the kind that almost took his eye, has developed an interest in them and his knowledge of healing herbs makes him a well-respected member aboard the ship, who even Cutthroat has to give some level of respect after having his life saved a couple times.

@coconuttyglittersmurf 's bean Anne! (Queen Anne's Lace) Dreamt of a life of piracy and ran away to join a crew. Bluebeard may have been dubious about her apparent naivety at first but Anne shows good prowess with a sword, dedication and loyalty, all things Bluebeard needs and he’s an equal opportunity employer (diversity win, the murderous pirate is a feminist) and I think perhaps Cookie would become fond of her :)

@schtroumpfalunettes’s bean Rosemary! Became friends with Anne (Anne Bonny and Mary Read parallel) and joins as another buccaneer. Highly enthusiastic, cuts down enemies with glee. I see a scene of Bluebeard standing there in the back watching her go ham on a rival pirate boat and being like ‘dang glad she be me crew’

@a-doodling-tanuki 's bean! Scallywag :) As described by them, Scally was picked up from a pirate wreckage where they thought he was a smurfling and would make a good cabin boy, only to realise he was in fact an adult of diminutive stature, so Scally became a steward instead (general cleaning and maintenance of the ship, often works under Cookie as a sous chef) Best friend and fellow fun-haver with Swashbuckler, often scolded and told off by Cutthroat and Bluebeard and forced to mop the decks as punishment.

The man of the hour; Swashbuckler (cheering noises). Swashbuckler had been a cabin boy and sailor on merchant ships as a child, but after the death of his father he turned to piracy in order to steal medications for his younger sister who suffered with a weakened immune system. Swashbuckler loved the freedom and loot piracy brought and less so the plunder and murder – he was a good hearted Smurf and a lover of jokes, but he was also an excellent swordsman and a fierce opponent in a duel. It was perhaps his youthful ego and lack of experience that ultimately cost him.

Skelly’s sister! I’ve decided not to name her since that’s kind of a key part of the lore of Skelly not remembering, F. But since Skelly remembers seeing her in his dreams & she’s Tuffy’s direct ancestor, I can * certainly * design her >:)

+ Uncensored death art

Bluebeard, Cutthroat, Cookie, Swashbuckler and his sister are mine

Other oc's are tagged above!

Franchise and descendants (c) The Smurfs

[gatekeeper-watchman]

EXPOSING SATAN’S DEVICES

TWO POWERS ON EARTH

We need to see the true nature of God. By knowing God’s attributes we can see the extreme contrast of Satan’s nature vs. God’s nature. Satan is diametrically opposed to all for which God stands. We need to understand that there are only two supernatural powers on the earth today and that we are going to be influenced by either one or the other. We cannot remain neutral. The two powers are actually two opposite laws that are working in the world: “the law of life in Christ” and “the law of sin and death” ruled by Satan.

For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2

SATAN’S SERVANTS

Many people are serving Satan out of ignorance, not realizing that they are his victims and pawns.

Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart. Ephesians 4:18

Others have deliberately chosen to follow the devil.

Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same but have pleasure in them that do them. Romans 1:29-32

Some have chosen to follow their own ways and are thus following the devil because selfishness is part of his nature.

For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God. 2 Timothy 3:2

And, still others have utterly rejected Christ and therefore are also followers of Satan.

…He that believeth not shall be damned. Mark 16:16

Let us look at the nature of Satan so that we will be able to recognize his devices. His lies can be exposed by examining their source, thus perceiving that his work is behind them. Once they are exposed, we can resist the devil and overcome him. It is very important to know the nature and the tactics of our enemy if we are to defeat him.

EXPOSING SATAN’S LIES

We read in Revelation 12:9 the following description of the devil: “And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.” From this, we see that one of Satan’s major roles is that of deceiver. He has deceived the whole world. When we are “born again” into the Lord’s kingdom, we are no longer a part of this world. If we seek only the Lord for truth, we will no longer remain under bondage to the devil’s lies and deception. (Colossians 1:13: “Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son.”) The only power Satan has over any child of God is the power of deception, and that can be overcome by seeking the Lord and the truth of His Word. Actually, Satan has no power over Christians except what they allow him to have. On the other hand, people in the world who are unbelievers have no protection against the devil and his evils. The only thing that keeps them from immediate death is God’s mercy and grace. God is not willing that any should perish. (2 Peter 3:9: “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”)

In Genesis, we find the first account of Satan’s deception as he, in the form of a serpent, beguiles the first man and woman that the Lord created. Genesis 1 and 2 record the creation of the earth and God’s special creation, man. Genesis 1:26-28a reads, “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. And God blessed them…”.

As we look at this tragic story, we will discover that the same lies Satan told Adam and Eve are the same ones he is still using today to get man to sin and break fellowship with God. He has not changed his method of attack. By studying Genesis 1, we can understand and benefit greatly from the record of the invasion of the planet Earth by this hostile power, seeing him strike at God through the ones whom He created and loved. There was a sweet fellowship existing between man and God in the Garden of Eden. Satan knew if he could only break the bonds of that fellowship and cause those two in the garden to step out into independence as he had done, then God would lose something that was most precious to Him.

[myechoecho]

Till the End of the Moon, ep 35

This episode was so good yet it’s the calm before the storm. This sweet happiness is not going to last.

Tantai Jin is trying his best to resist the Devil God. But all it takes is for the mention of Li Susu for him to fully snap back and reject the Devil God. However, he is willing to take all the blame to protect Susu from everyone knowing that she has the Evil Bone.

Even though Susu is unconscious she is has a connection to Tantai Jin and see that he’s in danger. That’s all she needs to wake up so she go protect him.

She defends him fiercely, and also has lays bare her whole story. Her absolute conviction that she has severed his fate and he will not be the Devil God is all he ever wanted to hear (plus the last piece of the puzzle she was hiding from him), but at the same time he’s also begging her to not to do this as he wants to protect her

Her hand to his face is everything, as she reassures him that it is okay

She lies about the Evil Bone though

All Most of the sects are giving Tantaji Jin a second chance and they seal the two artifacts that they have. Interesting how once again, he is a captive, though under very different circumstances.

The sect leaders should not have given the crossbow Chief Cen. Dude, your son died because he was a dumb ass, useless and a bully. And look at you wanting to use the Devil Crossbow for your own selfish reasons. Tantai Jin used it at great cost to his life to protect people and he’s the evil one

I love that when Susu wakes she immediately reassures him because she knows he needs it.

I didn’t expect him to know she has the Evil Bone because he can recognize the evil energy but it makes sense.

Susu fully letting her love for him show and the fact that she says they will face any hardship together means the world to him. As long as he has her it will be okay.

Jiwu’s now having an identity crisis and it’s the most animated he’s ever been. We still don’t know why he was created or exits. And of course he goes to see Bangchang since we are supposed to care about them or something.

Heart Guarding Scale again? I love that Tantai Jin was able to refine/repair it by using all the good in his past that was not just Susu. It’s the breakthrough he needed. He now understands how to use his power for good. As long as his heart is pure, he can use the Devil God’s power towards good and not evil. He was always holding back before.

I’m not surprised that his master knows Susu has the Evil Bone.

For Tantai Jin, it’s not even a question if he will remain in Heaven Lake with Susu forever because she has the Evil Bone. He searched 500 years for her. Wherever Susu is,Tantai Jin will be.

Them so casually holding hands in front of everyone made me smile.

I love the call back to the first spell she taught him. If they have to stay there, they can use the spell to see other places.

They finally have a real proper kiss and I squeeed.

But lord, Susu literally branding him with her symbol to cover up her previous branding with the spikes by kissing him had me screaming

If this show had ended here I would have been fine but there are 5 more episodes and I’m pretty sure they will bring the pain.

[lemonyinks]

I decided to combine all of my Robin and Ace posts into one. I wanted to put all of my thoughts together, change some things up and add on some additional thoughts that weren't in the previous posts.

Pretty long post ahead, so beware.

(The moment that each of them fully realized that they are loved).

I think about the two of them so often it's not even funny anymore. they're so different in so many interesting ways and yet so painfully similar.

The Son of Roger and Demon Child; hated by all from a young age for crimes they didn't even commit and feared for what people believe they had the potential to become, rather than what they really were. But the way the world saw them wasn't the only thing that they had in common. They also viewed themselves in a very similar way to each other, but handled it in drastically different ways.

Robin was stuck believing what she's been told her entire life, that she was a demon who didn't deserve to live and that her simply being alive was a sin or crime in itself. People treated her as though all her worth came from what she could do, rather than who she was as a person. If she wanted food, shelter, or even companionship she had to work for it, nothing ever came for free for her. Everything had a price. Not only that, but the second they learned of who she was, they would turn on her without fail. From a young age she was all but taught that she would be betrayed again and again no matter what. Trust wasn't something she was allowed to have.

And until she met the Strawhats, she had no choice but to believe these sentiments, because no one has ever tried to tell her otherwise. Saul's words were like a far off dream that she never had hope of obtaining. She was well and truly alone for more than half of her life. So, she didn't even let herself believe she deserved to want to live. She was ultimately a was too afraid to allow herself this hope. She was scared of being betrayed again by people she had grown to love. She would rather die in silence and leave behind the image of a cold-hearted killer than allow the crew to save her, because she fully believed that they too would inevitably betray her as well regardless of the amount of love she had for them.

But she does want to live. She wants to be happy and sail the seas, learning about everything the world has to offer. She wants to be part of a family, she wants to love and be loved in return. After joining the crew, after they went through all the pain and effort of saving her simply because they loved her, she finally allowed herself to be vulnerable and express her desire to live. She even goes so far as ask for as much, she begs to live. She silently begs to be loved.

She later even embraces her demon title and flips it on those who hurt her, allowing herself to be become a devil who can protect what is precious to her. She loves fiercely and is loved fiercely in return

As for Ace, he has been told since he was young that being Roger's son pretty much made his existence a crime and that he was incapable of being loved, just like Robin. He had to be hidden away since infancy simply because of who his father was. Like Robin, he internalized all of the horrible things said to him to the point that he found his own bloodline to be 'rotten' and questioned whether or not it was a good thing he was ever born.

He also embraced the title of monster, but in a very, very different way. He placed very little value on his life and even admitted with his dying breaths that he likely wouldn't have stayed alive as long as he did if not for Luffy and Sabo. He fully subscribed to the idea that he was a monster whose blood was rotten, had resigned himself to the fact that he should die because of it. He kept his self hatred under wraps and never really let anyone in close enough to let him know that they loved him. He loved deeply, so deeply that it hurt, but he never let the people in his life love him back. He didn't think he was even capable of being loved in return.

Unlike Robin, even in his final moments, he wasn't able to allow himself to feel like he deserved to want to live or be happy. Right to the very end, he didn't think he was someone worth saving. He's grateful for his family and their desperate attempts rescue him, but it he didn't seem to be able to wrap his head around the fact that he was truly cared for. With his last words, he thanked his family for doing something that should have gone without saying; loving him. In the end, he did accept that he was loved. He died with a smile, happy to know that he was loved just as deeply in return

Both Robin and Ace deserved to live, they both deserved to be saved. And they both had people who believed so too.

In Ace's case a whole army of people who believed he was worth saving, just because they loved him. Well and truly loved him, simply for who he was. Both Ace and Robin had people willing to declare war on the entire world just to see them safe and happy. Both of them are so deeply loved that it makes your heart ache. It's just sad that one of them only realized this fact when it was already too late.

I really think Robin and Ace would have gotten each other in a way no one else in the series could have. They would have been able to sympathize with and understand each other in ways others simply wouldn’t be able to.

[musicfeedsmysoul12]

Okay so after fanpersoning at @dark-elf-writes about the Bard Izuku it made me think more on my Warlock Izuku. (Reminder Izuku is a trans girl in the AU. She’ll use Izumi in text but I use Izuku here for simplicity sake and because she only changed her name to hide better from Overhaul)

Izuku who sold her soul to a Fae Lord because she needed protection. Izuku who has the contract for the bond etched onto her back. Who has to obey her patron and knows her life is on a tripwire. Izuku who was eleven years old when she ran with Eri as her mother faced off against a group of villains. Izuku took the hand of a being when she had no other choice.

It’s hard not to regret it but it’s hard to regret it to. She saved Eri. Saved herself and gained the power to take revenge later. Izuku swore an oath never to kill if only because she fears what she will become if she does but she is fierce and deadly. But at the same time her soul is not her own. She gave it to a Fae who has tormented his other Warlocks. Who stole the emotions and the memories of one who failed his order to save his son. Izuku wears the contract on her back and it burns at times, making her know where to go.

Izuku who has magic tingling at her finger tips and the knowledge of a world far beyond her own. Who has gone to night markets where the portals between realms live to meet a bunch of people. Izuku has met Paladins, Clerics, Bards and more. She’s met elves, orcs, goblins, and tieflings.

But the mark is on her back and on her neck. A binding chain that can be tugged at any time. She was eleven. The Fae chose her specifically at that time, when she was cowering in an alley with a child in her arms. He knew he had her over a barrel.

Sometimes she wishes it was a devil she held a contract with. You can trust a devil to want to increase his own standing and to be dishonest. You can never trust a Fae because their moods are fickle and they cannot lie but will twist the truth.

Izuku is a Warlock. She will be a hero.

And the contract is ever steep.

[beevean]

Some more Hector and Isaac headcanons:

Hector grew up well-off, thanks to his father. This means that he was educated in certain subjects, and in particular he was taught to read and write, in Romanian, Greek and Slavic (what we now call Old Church Slavonic). Sure, Dad didn’t care much about his son, but that status symbol that he so craved, am I right?

Isaac, on the other hand, was a normal farm boy and grew up in poverty, so when he started to study magic arts in Castlevania he had to go through crash courses in literacy, much to his chagrin. (I like to imagine that Hector taught him to write his own name :) )

Isaac never knew his mother. Whether she died in childbirth or ran away because she thought she gave birth to a strigoi is unclear (read: i’m undecided). Mr. Laforeze was tolerant of his son’s oddities, being a sorcerer himself, but a lifetime of persecution and living on the edge of society also left him emotionally distant.

Mr. Laforeze at one point remarried (perhaps out of convenience?) and had Julia, meaning that she and Isaac are actually half-siblings, which explains why they don’t look anything like each other. The other wife, of course, only saw Isaac as an extra mouth to feed and had no interest in a literal redheaded step-child, so in any case, Isaac never had a mother and basically raised himself. You can imagine the kind of troublemaker he became :P I have this image of him kicking the big cross in the village church out of spite.

Isaac enjoyed teasing Julia, maybe even going too far at times, but he was fiercely protective of her from everyone else; he took his role of older brother seriously. This is where his complex of being appreciated and deemed useful started.

(I also wonder if this also started Julia’s own Stepford Smiler tendencies - she pretended to be fine and happy so that Isaac wouldn’t worry about her even more... or hurt other kids who might have harmed her)

Hector is not very good with people. As a child, he struggled with even talking (even as an adult he’s not the best conversionalist once you go past polite pleasantries), and he doesn’t understand others unless they spell things out for him - this explains how he could trust Zead but not St. Germain lol. Isaac has learned to read people better, perhaps due to fear. Both of them are terrible liars, but Hector is better at keeping a stoic face, while Isaac is brutally honest and wears his feelings on his sleeve; and both of them have low empathy for others - there is a reason Hector’s rebellion stemmed for self-centered reasons such as “I’m human too” and “I’m not a tool to be used”.

Just like Hector’s favorite animals seem to be cats according to the MF manga, Isaac’s were bats and wolves. Bats, because he has a slight bat motif going on (the Chauve-Souris), but I don’t know why I associate him with wolves. I guess he has some wolfish traits.

While Isaac comes off as being confident in his appearance, he’s actually self conscious about his hair for obvious reasons. I also don’t think he had the bangs at first, that was the result of letting his hair grow during those fateful 3 years (yes this is against the depictions of the manga, but it makes more sense to me).

Isaac actually tried to welcome Hector when he was accepted in Castlevania, but Hector wouldn’t talk to him, because he was still traumatized by the church incident and because he had an innate distrust of children around his age. Isaac broke his shell by showing him his Devil Forging :) of course he was also very eager to bask in Hector’s admiration lol.

Hector planned new Devils by sketching them on paper - he’s a decent artist at best, but the point was more about carefully planning and deciding on their characteristics. Isaac, who never held a pen in his life, relies on his imagination only.

Isaac had the idea of Devils, Golems and Mages; Hector had the idea of Fairies and Birds (his logic being that armies need more than simple brute force). As for the various evolutions, they created most of them together.

Abel is Isaac’s very first Innocent Devil. The Ends start off as Gales. I just love the idea that Isaac’s first Forging was a literal little devil lol. (and look at that, it has a little trident that kinda looks like the Chauve-Souris!)

Alucard and Isaac could not stand in the same room for five minutes without arguing, and Isaac was fond on going on tirades against “that brat” and “that momma’s boy” who wouldn’t allow him to do his job properly because he was oh-so-sensitive (to anyone who knew him it was obvious that he was highkey jealous lol). Alucard and Hector respected each other, with Alucard considering Hector highly intelligent and Hector taking his opinions into account during reunions, but they never became close friends, both because Hector was joined at the hip with Isaac and because the more Alucard grew older, the more he started to be disgusted by how his father groomed two human children. This becomes much sadder after Lisa’s passing...

Both of them held “Lady Lisa” in high regard, and perhaps they even considered her the closest thing to a loving mother figure. When Lisa died, Isaac was particularly furious if not even hurt, because being persecuted for being magic users (or being accused of such) is personal to him. Hector had more trouble empathizing with that, because he would have been glad to hear that his mother died, but he still felt sorry that an innocent, well-meaning woman was wrongly killed - hint hint...

Once, Isaac asked Dracula why he wouldn’t turn him and Hector (mostly him lol) into vampires. Dracula responded that humanity is a key element in the process of creating life, so Devil Forgemasters can only be human. Alucard himself is the proof of this, as he was born from a vampire and a human. Isaac was disappointed but never insisted, Hector was glad because the idea of being a vampire, a slave to his basic needs, repulsed him. (sidenote: I also like the explanation given by Netflixvania that keeping Hector and Isaac human assures their loyalty)

[orthodoxydaily]

Saints&Reading: Friday, February24, 2023

february24_february11

THE PRIEST MARTYR BLAISE (BLASIOS), BISHOP OF SEBASTEIA (316)

The Hieromartyr Blaise (Blasius), Bishop of Sebaste, was known for his righteous and devout life. Unanimously chosen by the people, he has been consecrated Bishop of Sebaste. This occurred during the reign of the Roman emperors Diocletian (284-305) and Licinius (307-324), fierce persecutors of Christians. Saint Blaise encouraged his flock, visited the imprisoned, and supported the martyrs.

Many hid from the persecutors by going off to desolate and solitary places. Saint Blaise hid away on Mount Argeos, where he lived in a cave. Wild beasts approached him and meekly waited until the saint finished his prayer and blessed them. The saint also healed sick animals by laying his hands upon them.

The saint's refuge was discovered by servants of the governor Agrilaus, who had come to capture wild beasts to lose on the Christian martyrs. The servants reported to their master that Christians were hiding on the mountain, and he ordered the arrest. But those sent out found there only the Bishop of Sebaste. Saint Blaise followed the soldiers to glorify God, Who had summoned him to this exploit.

Along the way, the saint healed the sick and worked other miracles. Thus, a destitute widow complained to him of her misfortune. A wolf had carried off a small pig, her only possession. The bishop smiled and said to her, “Do not weep; your pig will be returned to you...” To the astonishment of everyone, the wolf came running back and returned his prey unharmed.

Agrilaus, greeting the bishop with words of deceit, called him a companion of the gods. The saint answered the greeting, but he called the gods devils. Then they beat him and led him off to prison.

On the next day, they subjected the saint to torture again. When they led him back to the prison, seven women followed behind and gathered up the drops of blood. They arrested them and tried to compel them to worship the idols. The women pretended to consent to this and said that first, they needed to wash the idols in the waters of a lake. They took the idols and threw them in an intense part of the lake, and after this, the Christians were fiercely tortured. The saints stoically endured the torments, strengthened by the grace of God; their bodies were transformed and became white as snow. One of the women had two young sons, who implored their mother to help them attain the Kingdom of Heaven, and she entrusted them to the care of Saint Blaise. The seven holy women were beheaded.

Saint Blaise was again brought before Agrilaus, and he unflinchingly confessed his faith in Christ. The governor ordered that the martyr be thrown into a lake. Going down to the water, the saint signed himself with the Sign of the Cross, and he walked on it as though on dry land.

Addressing the pagans standing about on shore, he challenged them to come to him while calling on the help of their gods. Sixty-eight men of the governor’s retinue entered the water, and immediately drowned. The saint, heeding the angel who had appeared to him, returned to shore.

Agrilaus was in a rage over losing his finest servants, and he gave orders to behead Saint Blaise and the two sons of the woman martyr entrusted to him. Before his death, the martyr prayed for the whole world, and especially for those honoring his memory. This occurred in about the year 316.

The relics of the Hieromartyr Blaise were brought to the West during the Crusades, and portions of the relics are preserved in many of the lands of Europe [and his memory is traditionally honored there on February 3].

We pray to Saint Blaise for domestic animals' health and protection from wild beasts.

Source: Orthodox Church in America_OCA

St BENEDICT OF ANIANE ( 821_GAUL)

Born Witiza and called the Second Benedict, he was a Benedictine monk and monastic reformer who left a significant imprint on the religious practice of the Carolingian Empire. His feast day is February 11 or 24 , depending on the liturgical calendar. According to Ardo, Benedict's biographer, he was the son of a Visigoth, Aigulf, Count of Maguelonne (Magalonensis comes). Originally given the Gothic name Witiza, he was educated at the Frankish court of Pippin the Younger and entered the royal service as a page. He served at the court of Charlemagne, and took part in the Italian campaign of Charlemagne in 773, where he almost drowned in the Ticino near Pavia while attempting to save his brother. The experience led him to act on a resolve slowly forming in him, to renounce the world and live the monastic life. He later left the court and was received into the monastery of Saint Sequanus, the Abbey of Saint-Seine.

At Saint-Seine, Benedict was made cellarer and then elected abbot, but realizing the monks would never conform to his strict practices, he left and returned to his father's estates in Languedoc, where he built a hermitage. Around 780, he founded a monastic community based on Eastern asceticism at Aniane in Languedoc. This community needed to develop as he had intended. In 782, he founded another monastery based on Benedictine Rule at the same location. His success there gave him considerable influence, which he used to find and reform several other monasteries and eventually became the effective abbot of all the monasteries of Charlemagne's empire.

In 781, Louis the Pious became King of Aquitaine and asked Benedict to reform the monasteries in his territory. Later as Emperor, he entrusted him with coordinating practices and communication among the monasteries within his domains. He had a wide knowledge of patristic literature, and churchmen like Alcuin sought his counsel. In 814, Louis, now emperor, had Benedict found a monastery on the river Indre near the court at Aachen. The monastery was initially called the "Monastery of the Redeemer on the Indre", but came t be known as Kornelimünster Abbey.

He was the head of a council of abbots which in 817 at Aachen created a code of regulations, or "Codex regularum", which would be binding on all their houses. Benedict sought to restore the primitive strictness of the monastic observance wherever it had been relaxed or exchanged for the less exacting canonical life. Shortly after that, he compiled a "Concordia regularum". Sections of the Benedictine rule (except ix-xvi) are given in their order, with parallel passages from the other rules included in the Liber regularum, to show the agreement of principles and thus to enhance the respect due to the Benedictine. He was primarily an ecclesiastic who zealously placed his not-inconsiderable theological learning at the service of orthodoxy and the cause of Benedictine monasticism. Although these new codes fell into disuse shortly after the deaths of Benedict and his patron, Emperor Louis the Pious, they did have lasting effects on Western monasticism.

Benedict died at Kornelimünster Abbey on February 11, 821, in the monastery Louis had built for him to serve as the base for Benedict's supervisory work. He was buried the next day on February 12, hence why some list his feast day as the 11th  and some the 12th.

Source: Wikipedia

ZECHARIAH 8:7-17 

7 Thus says the Lord of hosts: Behold, I will save my people from the east country and from the west country; 8 and I will bring them to dwell in the midst of Jerusalem; and they shall be my people and I will be their God, in faithfulness 9 Thus says the Lord of hosts: "Let your hands be strong, you who in these days have been hearing these words from the mouth of prophets, since the day that the foundation of the house of the Lord of hosts was laid, that the temple might be built. 10 For before those days there was no wage for man or any wage for beast, neither was there any safety from the foe for him who went out or came in; for I set every man against his fellow. 11 But now I will not deal with the remnant of this people as in the former days, says the Lord of hosts. 12 For there shall be a sowing of peace; the vine shall yield its fruit, and the ground shall give its increase, and the heavens shall give their dew; and I will cause the remnant of this people to possess all these things. 13 And as you have been a byword of cursing among the nations, O house of Judah and house of Israel, so will I save you and you shall be a blessing. Fear not, but let your hands be strong." 14 For thus says the Lord of hosts: "As I purposed to do evil to you, when your fathers provoked me to wrath, and I did not relent, says the Lord of hosts, 15 so again have I purposed in these days to do good to Jerusalem and to the house of Judah; fear not. 16 These are the things that you shall do: Speak the truth to one another, render in your gates judgments that are true and make for peace, 17 do not devise evil in your hearts against one another, and love no false oath, for all these things I hate, says the Lord."

ZECHARIAH 8:19-23

19 Thus says the Lord of hosts: The fast of the fourth month, and the fast of the fifth, and the fast of the seventh, and the fast of the tenth, shall be to the house of Judah seasons of joy and gladness, and cheerful feasts; therefore love truth and peace. 20 Thus says the Lord of Hosts: 'Peoples shall yet come, Inhabitants of many cities; 21 The inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, "Let us continue to go and pray before the Lord, And seek the Lord of hosts. I myself will go also." 22 Yes, many peoples and strong nations Shall come to seek the Lord of hosts in Jerusalem, And to pray before the Lord.' 23 Thus says the Lord of hosts: 'In those days ten men from every language of the nations shall grasp the sleeve of a Jewish man, saying, Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you. '

[intoxfolklorex]

Luka Rushman

Full Name: Luka Aleksander Rushman

Date of Birth: December 25, 1995

Sexuality: Pansexual

Occupation: Model/Gang Leader

Family: Wyatt Rushman (older brother), Victoria Rushman (older sister), Zoe Rushman (older sister), Katerina Rushman (twin sister)

FC: Thomas Doherty

Death tw, drugs tw, murder tw, addiction tw

You must have an active thread with one of my female muses to do a M/F ship with this muse.

luka aleksander rushman joined the world on december 25, 1995, at 12.01am. just three minutes before his twin, and some have claimed that those three minutes was the longest that they’ve been apart. those claims coming from the twins being closer than anyone else that they knew.

from the moment the twins were born they were the most protected members of the family. their mother died in childbirth and their father’s name would drive fear into even some of the most vicious of mobsters. eventually their older brother would go on to follow in those footsteps.

where katerina was smart and working to prove herself, luka took the easy road wherever he could. where kat was shy, he was loud. complete opposites of each other and yet no one saw behind closed doors. no one saw where his sister could be fiercely protective and where luka could be vulnerable– it was a tie between him and his eldest brother who got the most of their father’s rage.

luka was just sixteen years old when he was scouted– though of course he knew the real reason straight away. the company wanted to get in well with his father, the man owning the biggest media company in the world. only it took luka selling his soul to the devil to allow him to follow through with the job. he initiated just four weeks before his seventeeth birthday and the only reason he hasn’t taken his family’s mark is that he’s often photographed shirtless.

with the modelling world came the parties and with the parties came separation from his sister– a large part of his impulse control. the first time he told himself it would never happen again, it was just a little bit of fun. but the third and the fourth– then he could no longer justify what was going on and he didn’t want to. he hid it from everyone that he knew.

he was 21 when his father was murdered and luka fell down a rabbit hole of freedom. partying every night now that there was no one to stop him, and when he hit rock bottom he was lucky enough for his brother to pull him out. at least– that was what he thought.

wyatt made him get clean and he stayed that way for a little bit over three years. thriving in his job. though he fell off the wagon a little bit before his 24th birthday. this time though he’s been able to keep his problems to himself.

luka is more suited to poly plots as he feels strange being around just one person.

historical verse

in his historical verse, luka's father is the brother of the king, meaning that luka has grown up in the palace.

being the youngest son, luka had a hell of a lot of freedom and he used that to his advantage. partying and enjoying himself as much as he could.

one night he came home to find that his father and uncle were killed at the hands of his older brother. it meant that luka had to turn on his war mind, and he is very close to his oldest brother meaning that luka will do whatever is asked of him.

Luka is only interested in muses aged 25 and older.

Like for a starter from this muse.

Check the link in the source for the rest of my muse bio starter calls.

[pagebypagereviews]

In TJ Klune's enchanting novel, "The House in the Celurean Sea," readers are transported to a vividly imagined world where the extraordinary is cloaked in the guise of the mundane. It's here, amid the tranquil hue of a boundless ocean, that we encounter Linus Baker—a by-the-book caseworker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. Linus's world is one of order and routine, but it’s upended when a highly classified assignment whisks him away to an island orphanage where the residents are anything but ordinary. Charged with determining the fate of six potentially dangerous children, Linus must confront not only the unknown but also the biases deeply ingrained within himself. Klune's narrative is a tender exploration of love, acceptance, and the courage to challenge one's own preconceptions. Amidst the backdrop of society's fear of that which is different, "The House in the Cerulean Sea" serves as a poignant reminder of the power of empathy and inclusivity. With whimsical prose, Klune crafts a tale that tackles the complexities of identity and the importance of finding one's place in the world. As much a mirror to our own societal struggles as it is a beacon of hope, this novel invites readers to question the fine line between protection and oppression, weaving a story that is as thought-provoking as it is heartwarming. Plot The House in the Cerulean Sea follows Linus Baker, a meticulous and by-the-book case worker for the Department in Charge of Magical Youths (DICOMY), whose life is steeped in routine. The plot thickens when Linus is unexpectedly summoned by Extremely Upper Management and given a classified assignment to investigate Marsyas Island Orphanage, where six dangerous magical children reside, along with their enigmatic caretaker, Arthur Parnassus. Linus's journey is marked by his rigorous observations, reports, and the adherence to rules that govern the magical world. However, the heart of the plot emerges from the transformative interactions he has with each child and Arthur, challenging his preconceptions and bureaucratic detachment. As he delves deeper into the idiosyncrasies of the orphanage set against the backdrop of the cerulean sea, he is faced with moral dilemmas that question the strict policies of DICOMY and his own understanding of what it means to be a family. The plot examines themes of acceptance, found family, and the defiance of oppressive systems through the microcosm of this unique orphanage. Characters Each character in The House in the Cerulean Sea is meticulously crafted with distinct personalities and backstories that add depth to the novel. Linus Baker, the protagonist, is initially portrayed as somewhat timid and a stickler for rules but undergoes significant character development as he challenges his own beliefs. Arthur Parnassus serves as a counternarrative to Linus—warm, welcoming, and fervently protective of his charges, indicative of the book's themes of advocacy and guardianship. The children are arguably the most vibrant characters: Lucy, the son of the Devil, who struggles with the weight of expectations and prophecies; Talia, a garden gnome with a penchant for digging and a fierce loyalty; Chauncey, an enigmatic creature with dreams of becoming a bellhop; Sal, a shy were-Pomeranian with a traumatic past; Phee, a spritely forest sprite with an affinity for nature; and Theodore, a wyvern with a treasure hoard. Each child reflects different facets of the experience of growing up different and misunderstood, fuelling the narrative's emotional core. Writing Style TJ Klune's writing style in The House in the Covering Sea is characterized by its warm, conversational tone, which immediately draws the reader into the story. The prose is often infused with wit and humor, providing levity to the narrative even when addressing complex issues like prejudice and conformity. Klune effectively balances lighthearted moments with emotional depth, crafting beautifully poignant scenes that resonate with readers on a profound level.

Through careful word choice and detailed descriptions, the environment and characters come alive. The narrative voice is particularly adept at transitioning from the internal monologue of Linus, riddled with self-doubt and regimental thoughts, to the vivid, multi-sensory experiences that punctuate his journey. The use of selective repetition and thematic motifs reinforces the novel's underlying messages, while the dialogue is crafted to reveal the individual voices and growth of the characters. Setting The setting of The House in the Cerulean Sea is integral to the story's ambiance and thematic development. Marsyas Island Orphanage, though shrouded in mystery at the outset, is eventually depicted as a place of sanctuary, set apart from a world that oftentimes fears and marginalizes magical beings. The island itself becomes a nurturing, almost ethereal space where each child is free to exist without the threat of societal judgment, contrasting sharply with the grey and unyielding landscapes inherent to the bureaucracies of DICOMY and society at large. Klune meticulously describes the orphanage's surroundings: the quaint cottage, the verdant gardens, and of course, the ever-present, tranquil cerulean sea which gives the setting its fantastical and dreamlike quality. This juxtaposition not only serves to reflect Linus's inner transformation but also underscores the broader narrative conflicts between conformity and individuality, safety, and freedom. Unique Aspects The House in the Cerulean Sea holds unique appeal through its combination of fantastical elements with contemporary societal issues. One such aspect is the way Klune weaves social commentary into the fabric of the story, tackling discrimination, bureaucracy, and the fear of the 'other' in ways that mirror our reality. Moreover, the novel's approach to portraying an unconventional family unit among the children and their caretaker challenges traditional familial norms, offering an inclusive and heartfelt representation of love and acceptance. Another notable feature is the twist on the concept of prophecy and destiny—particularly regarding Lucy's character—where the narrative subverts expectations by allowing characters to define their own path regardless of foretold futures. Additionally, the sheer diversity of magical beings in the story, from the familiar to the wholly original, showcases Klune's creativity and adds to the rich tapestry of the fantasy genre. Lastly, the book's central themes of personal growth and the celebration of difference resonate on a universal level, making The House in the Cerulean Sea a compelling read for a wide array of audiences seeking both escape and reflection. Similar to The House in the Cerulean Sea Certainly! Below is an example of how you could use HTML to present a thorough analysis of the pros and cons of "The House in the Cerulean Sea" with a focus on the impact on the user experience. Each section (pro or con) is formatted with a table having solid 1px black borders. ```html Analysis of The House in the Cerulean Sea table width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; th, td border: 1px solid black; padding: 8px; text-align: left; .pros background-color: #e8f5e9; .cons background-color: #ffebee; h2 text-align: center; Pros of The House in the Cerulean Sea Aspect Impact on User Experience Character Development The well-developed and diverse characters in the story provide readers with relatable and engaging personas to connect with, enhancing the overall emotional investment in the narrative. Unique World-building The imaginative setting of the book captures the reader's curiosity and provides a sense of escapism, which is a delightful experience for those who enjoy fantasy elements in literature. Positive Messaging Themes of acceptance, love, and understanding resonate with readers and can have a profoundly positive impact, especially for those seeking uplifting content. Cons of The House in the Cerulean Sea

Aspect Impact on User Experience Predictability Some readers may find the plot too predictable, which could potentially diminish the sense of suspense and reduce the overall excitement of the reading experience. Pace of Story Those who prefer fast-paced plots might consider the pace to be slow at times, possibly resulting in a less engaging experience for some readers. Limited World Exploration While the world-building is unique, some readers may desire a deeper exploration of the settings and lore, leading to a feeling of unfulfilled potential in the universe created. ``` This code describes a structured way to present the different aspects of the book that are either advantageous (pros) or disadvantageous (cons) to the reader's experience, using HTML tables with clear styling to make each section stand out. Evaluating the Genre and Themes When considering the purchase of "The House in the Cerulean Sea," it's essential to understand the genre and themes of the book to ensure it aligns with personal reading preferences. This novel, penned by TJ Klune, is a fantasy novel with strong elements of whimsy, heartwarming character relationships, and LGBTQ+ representation. The central themes include acceptance, found family, and the defiance of bureaucracy when it comes to matters of the heart. Readers with a penchant for narratives that blend fantastical elements with profound emotional journeys will find this book particularly engaging. Understanding the Author's Narrative Style TJ Klune is known for his emotive and humorous writing style, making the reading experience both engaging and thought-provoking. Prospective readers should consider sampling Klune's writing to determine if his style resonates with them. Look for excerpts or previews available online. One's appreciation for Klune's narrative approach — characterized by rich descriptions, snappy dialogue, and the portrayal of poignant interpersonal dynamics — will significantly enhance the enjoyment of "The House in the Cerulean Sea." Book Editions and Formats Consider the available editions and formats of the book. "The House in the Cerulean Sea" is offered in hardcover, paperback, e-book, and audiobook versions. Hardcover editions may be the ideal choice for collectors or those preferring durability. Paperback options often provide a balance between cost and portability. For tech-savvy readers or those with limited storage space, the e-book version might be preferable, with the added convenience of being accessible on various devices. The audiobook, narrated by Daniel Henning, offers an immersive alternative, particularly for those who enjoy listening to stories while multitasking or on the go. Reading Level and Content Appropriateness Although "The House in the Cerulean Sea" can be categorized as an adult fantasy novel due to its complex themes, it is also accessible to younger audiences, with a reading level that is not prohibitive. The content is gentle and appropriate for mature teens and up, making it an excellent choice for crossover readers. It's pivotal to assess whether the reading level and content meet the suitability for either personal enjoyment or gifting purposes. Online Reviews and Community Feedback Prospective buyers should look into the community feedback and critical reviews of "The House in the Cerulean Sea" to inform their purchase decision. The book has received widespread acclaim, but like all literature, individual reactions vary. Reading reviews on platforms such as Goodreads, Amazon, and literary blogs can provide a well-rounded picture of the book's impact and reception. Paying attention to recurring comments in reviews, whether positive or negative, can also indicate aspects of the story that might resonate with or deter the potential reader. Price Comparisons and Availability It's practical to compare prices across various retailers to find the best deal for "The House in the Cerulean Sea." Prices may fluctuate between bookstores, online retailers, and digital marketplaces.

Additionally, investigate the availability – popular books can sometimes go out of stock, particularly in physical stores. If you prefer to shop locally, checking the stock of nearby stores online, or placing an order in advance, is beneficial. For budget-conscious readers, consider looking for sales, used books, or library loans as cost-effective alternatives. Supporting Independent Bookstores For those passionate about supporting local businesses, consider purchasing "The House in the Cerulean Sea" from an independent bookstore. Many independent bookstores have options to order books if they're not readily available in-store. Furthermore, purchasing from these stores often ensures that more money is injected into the local economy and the literary community, contributing to the survival and success of these cultural havens. FAQ for The House in the Cerulean Sea What is The House in the Cerulean Sea about? The House in the Cerulean Sea is a contemporary fantasy novel by TJ Klune that tells the story of Linus Baker, a caseworker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. He is sent to Marsyas Island Orphanage to evaluate the welfare of the children living there, who are all considered dangerous. These include a gnome, a sprite, a wyvern, and the Antichrist, among others. Throughout the novel, Linus learns about family, acceptance, and love through his interactions with the children and their caretaker, Arthur Parnassus. Who is the author of The House in the Cerulean Sea? The House in the Cerulean Sea was written by TJ Klune, an American author known for writing LGBTQ+ and fantasy literature. Klune has penned several other books, including "The Green Creek" series and "The Extraordinaries" series. Is The House in the Cerulean Sea suitable for all ages? While The House in the Cerulean Sea is often appreciated for its heartwarming narrative and message, it is targeted primarily towards an adult audience due to its themes and the complexity of certain issues it addresses. However, it is also considered suitable for young adults, who may find the story meaningful and engaging. Are there any sequels or related books? As of the knowledge cutoff date, The House in the Cerulean Sea is a standalone novel with no sequels. However, TJ Klune has written other books that, while not directly related, offer similar themes of found family, acceptance, and love. Is there any romance in the book? Yes, there is a romance subplot within The House in the Cerulean Sea. The blossoming relationship is portrayed in a subtle and tender manner, contributing to the overall narrative without overpowering the central themes of family and acceptance. Does the story contain any triggers or sensitive content? The House in the Cerulean Sea deals with issues like prejudice, discrimination, and the mistreatment of children, particularly those who are different in a fantastical sense. It is written with sensitivity and care, but readers who are sensitive to these topics may want to approach with caution. Can The House in the Cerulean Sea be classified as a young adult book? Though The House in the Cerulean Sea features elements often found in young adult literature, such as coming-of-age themes and fantastical elements, it is not specifically classified as a young adult book. The novel targets adults but is accessible to and can be enjoyed by young adult readers as well. In conclusion, "The House in the Cerulean Sea" by TJ Klune is a standout novel that resonates with readers searching for a heartwarming escape into a world brimming with charm and whimsy. With its masterful blend of fantasy and reality, Klune's tale becomes a beacon of hope, promoting themes of acceptance, understanding, and love. This enchanting story not only sweeps you into an extraordinary world inhabited by delightful magical beings, but it also offers profound insights into the human condition and the beauty of found families. As our empathetic protagonist Linus learns to challenge his

preconceptions and open his heart to the impossible, readers are reminded of the transformative power of compassion and the importance of advocating for those who cannot fight for themselves. TJ Klune's engaging prose and memorable characters make "The House in the Cerulean Sea" a valuable addition to any reader’s library. Whether you're long steeped in fantasy literature or seeking a meaningful story that will ignite a range of emotions, this novel is an inspired choice that delivers both entertainment and benefit—encouraging us to accept others and ourselves, to seek out magic in the mundane, and to acknowledge the extraordinary potentials hidden within every soul. With the accolades and acclaim it has gathered, "The House in the Cerulean Sea" is more than just a book; it's an experience that lingers, a conversation-starter, and a bold statement on the need for inclusivity in our societies. A must-read for anyone eager to be transported to a place of joy, wonder, and acceptance, it's a tale that will continue to enchant and educate readers for years to come. Other The House in the Cerulean Sea buying options

[jdgo51]

Lion of the Tribe of Judah

Today's inspiration comes from:

Praying the Names of God for 52 Weeks

by Ann Spangler

λέων ἐκ τῆς φυλῆς Ἰούδα

LEON EK TES PHYLES IOUDA

"Only once in the New Testament is Jesus described as a lion. The book of Revelation (named in part for what it reveals about Christ) portrays the risen Jesus as the only one worthy to open the scroll that contains the ultimate unfolding of God’s purposes for the world.

The apostle John perceived Jesus as both Lion and Lamb, who through his death and resurrection becomes the ultimate victor and conqueror. When you pray to Jesus as the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, you are praying to the one with the power to banish all fear, to the one who watches over you with his fierce protecting love. You are also praying to the one who is judge of the living and the dead.

KEY SCRIPTURE

I cried bitterly because no one was found who deserved to open the scroll or look inside it. Then one of the leaders said to me, “Stop crying! The Lion from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has won the victory. He can open the scroll and the seven seals on it.” — Revelation 5:4–5

GOD REVEALS HIS NAME IN SCRIPTURE

GENESIS 49:8–10, REVELATION 5:5 Open your personal Bible translation and read the same passages.

Make note where you read the name JUDAH or LION.

8 “Judah, your brothers will praise you. Your hand will be on the neck of your enemies. Your father’s sons will bow down to you. 9 Judah, you are a lion cub. You have come back from the kill, my son. He lies down and rests like a lion. He is like a lioness. Who dares to disturb him? 10 A scepter will never depart from Judah nor a ruler’s staff from between his feet until Shiloh comes and the people obey him.

5 Then one of the leaders said to me, “Stop crying! The Lion from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has won the victory. He can open the scroll and the seven seals on it.”

λέων ἐκ τῆς φυλῆς Ἰούδα

Understanding the Name

Throughout the Bible, the lion appears as a symbol of might, and it is hardly surprising that Israel’s enemies are sometimes depicted as lions. In the New Testament, Peter calls the devil a roaring lion and warns believers that he is constantly on the prowl, looking for someone to devour.

Though lions are sometimes a symbol of evil, they are also used as symbols of God’s people. Near the end of his life, the patriarch Jacob prayed a blessing over his twelve sons. When it came time to bless Judah, he compared him to a lion — hence the phrase “the Lion of the Tribe of Judah” (Aryeh Lammatteh Yehudah in Hebrew, pronounced ar-YEH la-mat-TEH ye-hou-DAH, or Leon ek tes Phyles Iouda, in Greek, pronounced LE-own ek teys fu-LAIS YOU-dah). Jacob’s prediction that the scepter would not depart from Judah has been traditionally applied to the Messiah.

In the Hebrew Scriptures, Yahweh is sometimes depicted as a lion who roars in judgment against the nations and against His own faithless people. But He is also depicted as a mighty lion who fights fiercely on behalf of His people. Revelation depicts the risen Christ as the mightiest of all victors. He is the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, the one found worthy to open the scrolls of history; this means that He is in charge of history and of how the world’s destiny unfolds.

Stop crying! The Lion from the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has won the victory.

Connecting to the Name

Why do you think the book of Revelation portrays Jesus as both Lion and Lamb? In the Bible “seven” is considered a sacred number, symbolizing per- fection or completeness, while a “horn” symbolizes power. What does this say to you about how the Lamb is portrayed in Revelation 5? How have you experienced and understood both the “lamblike” and “lionlike” nature of Jesus in your own life? What does it mean for us “to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God”? The Lion of the Tribe of Judah, the ultimate victor and conqueror, has the power to banish all fear and to watch over you with fierce, protective love. Picture this literally, then describe how this promise of safety might affect the way you face your fears. What specific victories has the Lion of Judah already won in your life? If you could choose one adjective to describe the passage from Revelation 5, what would it be and why? Would you call it bizarre, moving, perplexing, enlightening, or something else?

Praying a Passage with God’s Name

Focus on the name Aryeh Lammatteh Yehudah, “Lion of the Tribe of Judah” as you read Hosea 11:8–11.

“How can I give you up, Ephraim? How can I hand you over, Israel? How can I make you like Admah? How can I treat you like Zeboim? I have changed my mind. I am deeply moved.9 I will not act on my burning anger. I will not destroy Ephraim again. I am El, not a human. I am the Holy One among you, and I will not come to you in anger. 10 “My people will follow Yahweh when I roar like a lion. When I roar, my children will come trembling from the west.11 They will come trembling like birds from Egypt and like doves from Assyria. I will settle them in their own homes,” declares Yahweh.

Praying the Name LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH for Myself

Look up and read: Isaiah 11:6–9

Jesus is the lion and the lamb, who will bring all things to reconciliation at the end of history. Tell Him about anything or any circumstance that feels irreconcilable, and write a prayer of praise, surrendering that circumstance to Him.

Promises from the Lion of the Tribe of Judah

Be strong and courageous. Don’t tremble! Don’t be afraid of them! Yahweh your Elohim is the one who is going with you. He won’t abandon you or leave you. — Deuteronomy 31:6

A wicked person flees when no one is chasing him, but righteous people are as bold as lions. — Proverbs 28:1

FOR DEEPER STUDY

Read the following passages, considering the name the LION OF THE TRIBE OF JUDAH and how its meaning relates to the context of the passage.

Psalm 106:8 Proverbs 19:12 Amos 3:6–8

Joel 3:16"

Excerpted with permission from Praying the Names of God for 52 Weeks by Ann Spangler, copyright Ann Spangler.

[roxsannel]

Taz: (Devil's Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost Montana Chapter) by D. M. Earl.

Taz is a young woman who is great with numbers and organisation, she will go above and beyond to make sure that everything financially, runs smoothly and that is a lot of responsibility, but this is all hidden under a tough exterior of leather, spikes and rainbow hair, not to mention, she is part of an all female MC. However, she has a softer side when it comes to her son, he is young, but he has had some bad experiences in his short life, so when Taz’s ex comes back into the picture and hurts him, he has just poked the bear and this mama bear will do anything to protect her young, as will all of the MC sisters behind her. Taz has worked too hard escaping her past to be beaten by it again and she is nowhere near as beaten and broken as when she was with him, but he has no idea how she has changed, so when he starts messing with her and the others she lives with, she is determined to stop letting her past haunt her and embrace the wildness which is inside her

The troops are called in and the Intruders MC heed the call, as well as some handy ex military personnel who will also do whatever they can to help, especially Travis, their Enforcer, he has a soft spot for Taz and her son, but she is reluctant to get into another relationship and end up heartbroken again, but her son is happy around him and when her past comes calling, he answers with a fierce determination to protect them and this is where Taz realises that Enforcer might just be in this for the long haul, unlike in her devastating past. Meanwhile things escalate with her ex and the people supporting him and as the danger increases and all their protective instincts kick in, her ex has no idea what he has let himself in for.

This is yet another rip roaring and action packed MC romance where the suspense will keep you on edge throughout as one problem after another needs solving and sanity, relationships and bonds are tested to breaking point, but will they break, or will a silver lining shine out from within the storm and can this unlikely group of mismatched souls work together to solve yet another dangerous problem?