#its a blessing because youre so strong youre near impossible to kill and are safe in that regard

[bigmoon-is-bigwife]

I wonder how it must feel for Sneeg to be so dangerous that a new player can hit him and instantly die. He was warning Zam to be more careful after her two accidents the other day and I have to imagine he's always very aware of his own strength as well. He has to be, he's always one miss click away from killing someone. Hell, it turns out he doesn't even have to be the one to miss click, it's dangerous even being around him.

[ponderingmoonlight]

Yoriichi saving you just in time from getting killed by a demon

Pairing: Yoriichi x midwife!reader

Word Count: 4k

Synopsis: Your job takes you to the poor Kamado family, who are expecting their first child. But instead of a joyful birth, you are greeted by the cruel claws of a demon. What luck that an extraordinary swordsman shows up on this fateful evening.

Warnings: near death, injury, child birth, I'm not a midwife mystelf so this part isn't that detailed, lots of angst but comfort, this is my first demon slayer fic EVER so please show some support, I really appreciate it 🤍 (added 2 additional pics into the fanfic because I'm so amazed by the insane quality of these ai pics)

Tags: @froufrousnowman

„Excuse my rude interruption, but is this the Kamado residence?”

You are exhausted, sweat dripping from your forehead on this warm summer day, the sun shining down on you with all its strength. But you were called here, so you came. After all, this is your job. As a midwife by heart, you fear no weather when it comes to aid another woman by delivering her child.

“Yes, I am Sumiyoshi Kamado. Are you the midwife we were calling for?”

The man in front of you smiles at you kindly. You can tell by one look into his inviting eyes that he’ll be an amazing father. But before that, you have some work to do.

“That’s right, my name is (y/n). May I see your wife?”, you ask kindly, taking off the package of tools you were carrying on your back.

“She’s sleeping at the moment, but please allow me to lead you inside. Would you like to eat or drink something? I just cooked dinner!”

The excitement dripping from his voice really warms your heart. In times like these, gifting a child into the world seems like a burden, like an impossible task. It was in no way granted that an expected child was in any way welcomed. You’ve seen it all, the horrible things father and mother would do to prevent the new life from existing, how fate itself decided to stretch its hands out and take the child away from this earth way too soon. You’ve seen tears of joy, tears of grief, tears of despair. But oh, just one loving look of fresh mother and father into their babies’ tiny face is enough to make it all worth it for you.

“How did your wife feel within the last days? Did she complain about pain, especially in her back? Bleeding? Did she have to defecate more often than usual?”

Carefully, you place your tools onto a white cloth and disinfect your hands with strong alcohol when entering the room.

“She looks very peaceful, that’s great”, you hush.

What a beautiful woman she is, laying on her side with her hands covering her belly even while she sleeps safe and sound. Instinctively you kneel down next to her, gently caressing her cheek.

“This is your first child, isn’t it?”

“Yes. And I am beyond grateful you decided to help her even though we aren’t able to pay you decently. I wish I could give you more-“

“Please, don’t worry about it. I really enjoy being here. And if it helps your wife, no coins in the world are a better reward”, you interrupt with soft voice, looking down at her one last time before getting up and silently leaving the room along with her husband.

Your eyes dart towards the small window. How lovely the sunset looks today. Is it already this late? You must have been traveling for quite some time. As if on cue, your stomach begins to rumble. Well, maybe a cup of tea and something warm to eat would be a blessing right now.

“I am a little nervous. After all, I know nothing about the birth of children and how to care for them afterwards. But I love my wife so dearly, imagining a little child with her eyes truly makes me feel whole. Do you have any children yourself?”

What a kind man he is, sitting opposite to you with a cup of tea in his hand and his eyes glistening in the down-going sun. Despite the cruelness of the world, the tales of demons hunting down humans with what seems like no aim, all the bitterness and tears, this man was able to keep his warm smile and optimism.

“No. While I do adore children, I am not married. It’s hard to find a man willing to marry a midwife”, you explain briefly.

There is no sense in denying the fact that you are of low birth, a self-taught midwife since no man was willing to teach you. And in a world full of gorgeous young girls with skin like porcelain and kimono’s worth more than your housing, you will never catch the attention of a male. But somehow, you’ve found your inner peace with that. After all, helping other woman to finally receive their own little family fills you with enough joy to overlook that you’ll never have a man or a chid by your side yourself.

Confident knocks against the wooden door rip you out of your conversation.

“Are you awaiting someone?” you question.

Within the village you live in, it is told over and over to not leave the house after sunset. And while you don’t consider yourself superstitious, not going out when it’s all dark always seemed plausible enough for you. But now, the sun almost set, the trees around you barely lighten by the weak beam.

“No, but maybe it is someone who needs help.”

You get up from the ground, mindlessly holding onto the cloak in your hands tightly while holding your breath. It might be someone in the need of help. But out here in the woods, who knows…Shivers run down your spine, eyes staring at the door filled with curiosity.

The sight in front of you isn’t one of a robber, an old lady in distress or a demon though. Your orbs widen slightly. No, this is a man. And what a man he is.

The way he carries himself with so much peace and elegance. He looks…majestic. His fuchsia eyes lay upon your host. And even though you don’t understand from afar what they are talking about, you can tell that his firm but calm voice could tame entire oceans. What a remarkable perfect face he has, the only interruption being a scar covering his forehead. So elegantly clothed with a katana attached to his belt? You draw a little closer, take in his sight a little clearer. He looks like one of the men you’ve seen before in your village right after a whole family was brutally killed during night. He was armoured with a katana too. Could it be?

“Are you a demon slayer?”

You want to curse yourself for speaking to him so ruthlessly, for interrupting their conversation so harshly. But you’ve got so lost in his sight that it seems your mouth opened itself.

“Indeed. This is a riskful area. Keep your doors and windows locked during night time and do not leave your wife unattended. Please don’t roam around the house on your own and stay with your husband”, he instructs towards both of you.

Why does he look at you while calling you “wife”? You blink a few times when realization slowly but surely hits you. Oh. Your face reddens instantly, eyes snapping towards your host in pure shock.

“Oh, you misunderstood! She isn’t my wife, but the midwife that will help my wife delivering our firstborn. She’s sleeping at the moment”, he explains calmly while smiling at you.

The stranger’s eyes lock with yours, you can’t help but hold your breath. From all the men you’ve seen come and go in your lifetime, he definitely is the most captivating one. Is it because of his flawless appearance, because he carries himself with so much elegance? Or is it the calmness that radiates from his voice, the power you’re able to sense on him? Maybe nothing, maybe both.

“That is very kind for you. I will stay in this area tonight, but please look after yourself”, the stranger continues, glancing at you one last time before turning around and heading back into the woods.

“Thank you!”

“What an interesting man!”, your host comments towards you, closing and locking the door like he was told you.

“Do you believe in demons?”, you question.

His eyes darts towards you, the positive spark in them gone for the split of a second.

“I’ve witnessed a lot of deaths that happened during the night, terrible massacres with no one surviving. I am firmly convinced that a human being could never to something like that.”

“Humans can be cruel too”, you argue, pictures of all the horrible things you’ve seen within the years you’ve been working as a midwife flooding your mind.

Sometimes you can’t help but wonder who the real monsters in this world are. The demons, the wild animals? Or humans who pretend to be on top of the world, who tear down everything and everyone when they feel like it?

“That is correct. But we are trying our best, right? And that is all that matters for me.”

“It’s getting late, I should look after your wife. Is it alright if I rest with her for today?” you mumble, fingers fumbling with the white cloak to distract your mind from the stranger, from his words, from this whole conversation.

“Of course! I will prepare everything!”

You sign to yourself, gaze glued onto the woman laying in front you sleeping peacefully. Everything will turn good, right?

-at night-

Your eyes shoot open immediately, roaming around the dark room. There they lay, bodies intertwined with each other while being fast asleep. What was that fade away rustle you’ve heard, then? As quietly as possible you lift yourself off the futon Kamado-san prepared for you, naked feet greeted by the cold of the wooden floor underneath. Maybe you just dreamed it. Or is an animal outside? Given the fact that you are located in the middle of a forest, this wouldn’t be a surprise. You furrow your eyebrows, a fade away cracking from outside catching your attention all over again. No, something is off, you can sense it by the way your guts turn.

Instinctively, your hands grab the knife with which Kamado-san prepared your food just a few hours ago. You are by no means an experienced fighter, you have been skilfully avoiding situations like this your entire life. But waking up both of them over nothing would be ridiculous. Just a little glimpse outside the door, just to check on what’s probably a deer. Your heart hammers against your ribcage, palms sweaty in response.

With your free hand, you grasp the handle of the door. Breathe in, breathe out. Tame your pounding heart, get a hold of yourself. With a swift motion, you swing it open.

And get greeted by a pair of venomous red eyes.

There is no time to react any further. Not too late you are able to escape his grasp, naked feet carrying you further inside the forest.

“A demon! There’s a demon outside! Get into safety! A demon!” you scream on top of your lungs.

Please, let Kamado-san hear your desperate cries, let him drag his wife into safety. The disturbing tall and crippled figure of the demon draws closer to the house, closer to the soon to be family.

You don’t know what has gotten into you. Sympathy, a protective instinct? Whatever it is forces you backwards, right into the claws of the demon.

“I can’t allow you to harm a single soul in this house”, you hiss through gritted teeth, holding onto the knife in your hands for dear life.

How is it even possible to kill a demon? Do you even stand a chance against it? It doesn’t matter now. You slash forward with a cry of determination, aiming for its carotid artery. The cut doesn’t have to be deep if you hit him with enough precision, your muscle strength should be enough.

But before you are even able to come close to his body, his claw slices open your right arms with ease. Your eyes widen in pure horror, body unable to move even an inch. It moved so fast you weren’t even able to see its hand moving, sliced you open so effortlessly while you’re gasping for air like a fish on land.

Your body falls to the ground, the demon positioning itself on top of you. No, you won’t let it end like this. After all, you still have plenty of work to do, Kamado-san’s wife didn’t deliver her child yet. With full force you push your arms against it, trying to keep your keep your face out of its gaping mouth.

With one push you free your arm, yanking the knife into its eye. Now or never. While its loud groans fill the air with fright, you get off the ground, run deeper into the forest, desperately try to stay alive. You can’t die like this. Not you, not Kamado-san, not his wife, not their unborn baby.

But the demon is right on your tracks, hunting you down the dark forest without any mercy.

“Ouch.”

 A moment of inattention is enough for you to stumble over a thick branch, knees meeting the floor harshly. Is this your end? All you can do is stare up, glossy eyes widen in the dim moonlight with a tiny trail of its blood on your face. Hopefully the demon slayer from last evening will return soon enough to at least safe Kamado-san and his family. If not you, at least they need to survive.

There you kneel, face gone emotionless, orbs directed towards the frightening creature that lunges towards you. One hit. One hit of its claws will be enough to behead you. One second and your life will be nothing more than a fade away whisper in the darkness, ended way too soon just like so many others. You never thought it would be you, that of all the people you’d get killed by a demon slayer. After all, you were always so skilled in avoiding trouble, never allowing yourself to get into danger.

But oh, now you are. And it will cost you your young life.

Yoriichi can’t catch his breath, feet carrying him so rapidly to the scene laying itself out in front of him that the trees around him merge. He told you to stay inside, to keep windows and doors shut. Why are you outside? Where are the man and his wife? Please, let it not be too late, let him be able so safe those people.

Finally. With a determined slash of his blade, the demon in from of him gets beheaded, its ashes raining down onto the ground. You look…uninjured. Frightened, in pure shock, but uninjured. And unbelievably lovely with the dim moonlight highlighting the delicate features of your face.

“Are you alright?” he questions softly, slowly approaching you and stretching out his hand.

Carefully he lifts your trembling limbs off the ground, your hand holding onto his for what seems like dear life while your sharp and heavy breaths hang in the cool air.

“Yes”, you finally breathe out.

“Are the other two alright? Did someone get hurt?”

“There are inside. It was only this one. I lured him away”, you huff.

 Yoriichi swore himself to never get close to another human being again, to fulfil his duty in silence. But you…Did you really risk your life for a family you didn’t even know until yesterday? Did you run into the woods so selflessly to distract the demon? What a brave woman you are, truly remarkable.

“I was hoping for you to return”, you add.

His warm hand feels almost therapeutic against yours, calming down your tingling nerves and beating heart. You survived. Is this really possible? While kneeling down and staring right into the face of that frightful demon, you already accepted your fate. But that he’ll show up like a knight in shining armour, saving you just before getting beheaded…It seems like a miracle to you.

“I came here as fast as I could. This area was full of these creatures”, he explains briefly, fuchsia eyes resting on you.

“(y/n)!”

A thick stone falls from your heart. It’s him.

“Kamado-san, is your wife alright? Are you alright?” you blabber, the man sprinting towards you as if his life depends on it.

“You saved us. Even though you don’t even know me and my wife, you risked your own life to save ours. And you…You really came. I’m beyond thankful.”

He falls to his knees, leaving you completely speechless.

“She really was outstanding brave. Normally the sight of a demon alone is enough for most humans to lose their minds. You are exceptional, (y/n).”

It sounds so strange, hearing your name out of this charismatic stranger’s mouth. But the way his eyes lock with yours sends shivers down your spine, makes your heart pound against your ribcage all over again.

“What is your name?”

“Yoriichi Tsugikuni.”

Yoriichi. What an exceptional name that matches his majestic appearance perfectly. It seems so easy to get lost in his eyes, to study every inch of his face. And his smell…

“I don’t mean to interrupt your conversation, but I think my wife will deliver her child soon.”

Your eyes dart towards Kamado-san immediately.

“Why are you saying so?”

“Since she woke up from your screams, she seems to have contractions.”

You don’t think twice. As fast as your feet are able to carry you, you sprint back into the house, back to the reason why you originally came here.

-the next morning-

“Sleep well. You deserve it”, you whisper into the woman’s ear gently, wrapping her up inside a blanket before leaving the room discretely.

The birth went smooth and faster than you expected for a first born. Not long after you arrived by her side, she delivered the baby with tears of joy running down her face, her husband telling her over and over how much he loves her. It was bittersweet, seeing in front of your very own eyes what you’ll never have. Just after encountering him, just after those strange feeling that he triggered in you.

“I’m glad to see you are alright.”

You stop in your tracks, staring at the back of him in disbelief. There he sits, facing the sun while his broad shoulders catch your attention all over again.

“I’ll make some tea”, Kamado-san discretely announces before hushing into the house.

“I am in no way responsible for the miracle that happened tonight. That was you and Kamado-san’s wife”, you explain briefly, sitting down next to him.

The sun caresses your skin gently. You never thought its hot beams would calm your nerves before the incident of this night. You smile at the little bundle of joy Yoriichi is holding in his arms. Oh, how well it suits him. Someone like him must be a good father.

“I’ll be leaving after I had a cup of tea. It wouldn’t be right to keep eating for free here”, he announces all of the sudden.

“Don’t say that.”

Out of instinct, you place on hand on his firm shoulder and wrap the other around his strong biceps.

“You saved our lives tonight. It if hadn’t be for you, not only would we be dead, but this child you’re holding in your arms wouldn’t be born, either.”

“Don’t look at me like that.”

Your eyes freeze, unable to tear away from his beautiful sight. Why does he make you feel this way? What is it that makes this stranger so special? Is it his sword skill, his ability to fight? No. In fact, you couldn’t care less about that. It’s the way he carries himself, the elegance within every step he takes. It’s the fact that he sacrifices himself for others.

Just like you do.

“Like what?” you hush.

“As if I am some kind of special person. I don’t deserve the affection you hold in your gaze.”

“You deserve every spark of affection for your being”, you argue.

“You’re wrong about that. I failed to protect anything that was important to me. And throughout my life, I was unable to do what I was supposed to do. I am worthless.”

“How could you even say something like that? How could you talk about yourself so negatively after saving four lives this night?”

“Because of the countless lives I failed to protect.”

“So what? Does it make be a bad midwife that I wasn’t able to save every single child? The losses are tragic and never forgotten, but as long as we are doing our very best, there is nothing to regret. Tonight, you were able to save a young family. You should be proud of yourself instead of talking you down.”

He stands up, handing you the new-born carefully before grabbing his sword.

“Are you about to leave?” Kamado-san questions from afar, storming outside with tea in his hands.

You thoughtlessly hand him is son, eyes directed towards the charismatic man in front of you.

“I have to leave now. Thank you for your hospitality.”

“Wait!” you shout all of the sudden.

You don’t know what has gotten into you, but there you are, running after him and grabbing his hand just like you did this fateful night.

“Will I ever see you again?”

For a moment, time seems to stand still. He can’t believe his ears, usual tame heart almost beating out of his chest. When was the last time a woman ran after him, the last time a female even looked his way? He can’t remember. But especially you…Why would a woman like you be interested in a broken man like him? What do you see in him?

“Why would you want that?”

“I can’t tell. I just know I have to see you again”, you reply automatically.

The air between both of you seems thick enough to get cut by his knife, your eyes almost piercing through the back of his head. Please, just say something. Just move, turn around, smile. Just do anything besides standing still. Never in your life did you even think about the possibility to get to know a man better. Why him? Why a man you didn’t even know before last evening? Why someone who seems so unapproachable?

“You will see me again.”

And with that, he’s gone in the wind, leaving you with your feelings all over the place.

-a few months later-

“I almost thought you wouldn’t come”, you comment, resting your head against the cool grass.

The weather changed. As soon as the evening arrives, it’s getting way too cold outside to stay for long. But when he’s here, none of that seems to matter.

“You know I always do. How was your day?”

He lays down next to you, closing his eyes for a brief moment while you position your head on his shoulder. Oh, how much you loved these innocent little meetings. After you returned to your little village, Yoriichi found you wherever you went. Always keeping an eye open for you, staying longer from meeting to meeting. Until you randomly laid down in the grass the whole evening, talking about your life and eventually, got even closer. Innocent touching, him drawing circles on your back while you rest your head against his chest, listening to the steady sound of his heartbeat.

“The baby I delivered today, they were actually twins. Two healthy girls, the father almost fell unconscious when he found out.”

Your cute little giggle lights up the air around him and fills his heart with joy he hasn’t felt in a long time. Being happy seems so easy since he got to know you.

No. It’s far more than simply knowing you. The feelings he holds for you go far deeper than that.

“I love you, (y/n).”

Your heart skips a beat, gaze darting towards him the second those magical words leave his lips. Did you dream that? Are you really resting in the meadow with Yoriichi telling you none other but that he loves you?

How much you longed for this sweet moment, how often you thought about saying those words too. Without hesitation, you press your lips against his.

While the world around you seems to fall apart, at least this is fine. Yes, laying here in Yoriichi’s arms while tenderly kissing him like you’ve always imagined makes everything around you whole again.

“I love you too”, you whisper against his lips.

Who would have thought going to work and almost getting killed by a demon would turn out this nice?

[surveys-at-your-service]

Survey #356

“i’m just a painting that’s still wet: if you touch me, i’ll be smeared, you’ll be stained, stained for the rest of your life”

Have you ever used emotional blackmail to get your own way? WOW, no. What a starter. Has anybody ever used emotional blackmail on you? Not to my memory. Who did you last worry about and why? Honestly? Myself. My physical health just isn't very good right now. When are you next at work? Do you enjoy your work? N/A When was the last time you ate/drank something gross just to be polite? I'm not sure; I'm honestly very, very bad at this. I struggle big time hiding if I don't like something. Last time you heard a growl, who or what did it come from? My stomach. When did you last make up a baby’s bottle? Never. Do you have a mouse for your laptop? (Assuming you have a laptop) I use a mouse. I'm not a big trackpad fan. Do you have the right time set on your microwave? Yeah. What is your most expensive bill? I don't have any bills that I pay myself, because I can't. Do you have a big yard? No. Is there someone you would love to punch right now? Myself lol. Does the water in your shower take a long time to get warm? Yeah, it does. Song playing? I have "Leave A Scar" by Marilyn Manson on. Are you tired? I'm always tired. If you had the power to instantly transform someone’s life (for the better), who would you choose to use this on? My mom. Her entire life has been so fucking unfair, and she doesn't deserve it whatsoever. Just one day of her being perfectly happy would make my entire life. You wake up to a ZOMBIE APOCALYPSE. Your family is safe, but most of your city is zombified. You need weapons and various other supplies. What is your first general course of action? I seriously cannot even begin to imagine what I would do besides panic and be one of the first to die, honestly. If a family member (or boyfriend/girlfriend, if you have one) happened to be infected by one of these undead creatures, how would you go about dealing with that situation? It would tear me to shreds, but shoot them in the head to hopefully prevent them from turning. I couldn't let them suffer. Does someone’s view on homosexuality affect how you feel about them in any way? Sure as hell does. How about someone’s view on religion? This one depends on what their beliefs entail and to what intensity. If you were paralyzed from the neck down, would you still want to continue living? Why or why not? NO. NO. NO. This is seriously one of my biggest fears. Just fucking kill me. That sounds like very legitimate torture to me. Has any medication you’ve taken ever made you sick? How so? Three, to my memory. When I started Latuda, it made me throw up semi-frequently, BUT its effectiveness made me stay on it. My body eventually adjusted. The same thing happened with my current mood stabilizer, Vraylar. I was also on another, Trintellix I think, and that one did nothing but consistently make me puke, so I stopped it. Would you ever consider being a foster parent? No. Would you rather drink alone or with friends? With friends. Do you have too much time on your hands? WAY too much time. And yet I do nothing productive with it. Have you ever thought about hurting someone? Not seriously, no. Do you thank people for helping you? Always. Have you ever seen a zebra up close? Yeah, a few. Do you freak out if you see blood? Nah, it doesn't bother me. Have you ever complained to a manager about anything? What was it? No. Are there any songs that make you feel angry inside when you hear them? "Eternally Yours" by Motionless In White makes me feel that, among a thousand other emotions that are way too strong for me to handle, so I just don't listen to it. Have you ever been in a building that was on fire? YIKES, no. Are you in an argument with anyone right now? No. Have you ever written a poem for someone? Numerous times. Who’s the last person who cussed you out in anger? I think only my grandmother has done that. Who is the person you are closest to that you’ve meet online? Sara. (: Have you friended your parents on FB? I have my mom on there, but Dad doesn't have a FB. Where do you go out to eat for a special occasion? It depends on what we're in the mood for and what the occasion is. When someone sneezes, do you say “Bless you,” or “God Bless you?” Just "bless you." Have you ever seen the movie A Walk to Remember? Cliche or worth watching? Yeah, it's a wonderful movie. Do you live in a house, apartment, or another type of arrangement? House. Are you one of those people who like to spell out numbers? Grammatically speaking, any number below ten should be spelled out. I obviously spell out "ten," but w/e. Did you or do you still have a Furby? Was/is it annoying? I did as a kid. It didn't annoy me then, but as an adult I know they're creepy as shit lol. What's one event your town has that you don’t like to participate in? I don’t participate in any town events. Are any of your siblings married? What are their spouse’s names? Yeah. There's Nick, Josh, and Franky. Do you know how to sew? What's your favorite thing to sew? No. Have you ever owned a turtle? Did it ever bite you when you owned it? It's so awful looking back on, but my sisters and I kept a box turtle that wondered into our yard once as kids. No proper husbandry or anything; it was just in the kiddie pool. Thankfully, we were smart enough to not actually keep it forever (or rather, until it probably died from improper care); we wound up releasing it into the pond near our house, from which we assume it came from. Do you have Photoshop? If so, how often a day do you use it? I do; it comes with the Adobe photography bundle I have. I definitely don't use it daily, or even weekly. Has your school ever had a lockdown? If so, for what reason exactly? No, only drills. Do you enjoy it when your school has drills? (ex/fire or tornado drill?) I didn't, no, because I didn't like imagining the real situation. Do you watch any shows that you know your parents wouldn’t approve of? I'm an adult, for one. But anyway, I've never watched shows they'd have a problem with. If you have any pets, how would you describe their personalities? The cat, Roman: very, very affectionate, boisterous, demanding, playful, smart as fuck, and shy when it comes to strangers. The snake, Venus: curious, chill, and a bit timid. Do you have any friends that own a private lake? Not to my knowledge. Do you have a drone? No. Who is your favorite comedian? It was John Pinette, but following his death, probably Gabriel Iglesias. Where were you the last time you stayed in a hotel? I think at a dance competition? Do you know anyone with Crohn’s disease? Yeah. Out of all of the shows, movies, and books you love, who is your OTP (one true pairing)? Probably Spyro and Cynder from The Legend of Spyro trilogy. I love them. But I honestly don't have like, intense OTP feelings for any fictional characters? No real reasons, I just don't. Rhett and Link are my *true* OTP haha, but I didn't know if they counted since they're obviously real. Have you ever written a fanfiction? Did people actually like it? Nah. Have you ever liked playing dollmakers or online dress-up games? OH MY GOD my little sister and I would do that together ALL the time. Have you ever sent any celeb fan mail? No. Have you ever gotten a serious injury at school? What happened? No. Do your pets follow you when you walk around the house? Oh yes, he's my shadow. What was the very first social media site you signed up for? Myspace. Are you the type of person who knows exactly what they want in life? I mean, I know what I want, I just don't know if it's achievable for me. Do you have commitment issues? Nope. If you were to start a business, what kind would it be? I'd love to have like my own facility for boudoir photography. I've only shot boudoir once, but it immediately became a passion because of how empowering it was for my then-friend. I could go on a real ramble as to why I love it. What’s something you’ve done that sounds too crazy to be true? Been to psychiatric hospitals like six times. I honestly did lose count. Are there any flowers planted outside your house? No. What was the last thing you drank? Water. Truly incredible, I know. What’s the weirdest decoration you’ve seen in someone else’s home? *shrug* Did you have your own bathroom when you were growing up? No. Does anyone in your family smoke? My dad and his wife. What’s an opinion you find impossible to take seriously? That dinosaurs never existed. What was the very first election you voted in? This past one, actually. Do you feel positive and optimistic about your future? I don't want to think about this. What exes do you still associate with? Just Sara and Girt. Who told you they loved you last? My mom. Your worst enemy? I don't say I have any enemies. People who don't like me or I don't like them, but "enemy" isn't the proper word. What was your last dream about? Ugh. What a fucking question to ask, considering what I dreamt last night. I had both a nightmare and a normal dream; in the nightmare, I was sucked up into a tornado and carried away, and it felt so, so real. I was terrified. The dream is more vague in my memory, but I know I was at Jason's house (which wasn't actually his house) and his mom was still alive. I was hanging out with her and just chatting. It made me wake up in a really somber mood. Have you ever been admitted to the hospital? Psych hospitals, yes. Have you ever built a snowman? Yeah. What is your favorite milkshake flavor? Chocolate. Do you have any scars? I have a lot, but most are from negligible instances that just won't go away for some reason. If you could breed two animals together to defy the laws of nature, what new animal would you create? Putting all impossibilities aside as well as any potential health repercussions, maybe a meerkat and an opossum? Just in general a meerkat with a marsupial tail would be SO cute. Plus imagine the pattern. What is the most unusual conversation you’ve ever had? Oh I don't know. Can you do any accents other than your own? I can pull off a really convincing British one. Do you sing in the shower? Or do anything unusual in the shower? Explain. No. I just get clean, get out. I've always hated showering (the process anyway, I obviously enjoy feeling clean), so I get my business done adequately and then I'm done. Do you believe in aliens? Eh, maybe. It does seem pretty questionable to believe NOTHING else can exist in an infinite space. I doubt they're little green men, though. What do you think about babies? WAY too much work and WAY too much responsibility. Keeping another life safe, healthy, happy... the idea alone is terrifying. No thanks.

[mrneighbourlove]

The Rising Sun: Ch 4. Uncertain Future

A month had passed and Malik’s town was finally in its final phase. Elite guards had been trained to protect the city, and a trading system with men had been set up. If you weren’t a Gerudo male, you needed a special pass to come into the town walls. Trading tents were set outside to have trade to those who couldn’t afford a pass.

Asakonigei was growing rather tired of the constant trips back and forth to the Gerudo town. She did not want to get behind in her work for Queen Zarazu and wanted to keep her family home upkept. Yet, at the same time, she wanted to be a good wife and honor Malik's request for some new weapons for the elite guards in the newly restored city. So, it was difficult, trying to manage the two lives. She felt exhausted, too tired to even eat the food in front of it... and not to mention, it smelled absolutely vile. The roasted chicken and spices had a rancid scent. The vegetables were too bland. Strawberry cake with whipped cream was her favorite dessert and she could not bring herself to take a bite. Pushing her plate away, Asakonigei wondered if she had worked herself into a state of sickness.

Malik finished addressing safety protocols with Gali to the Gerudo people on safe trade when he returned to his chambers with his wife. Seeing she didn’t even touch the bowl of soup, he frowned. “Don’t even like my own simple cooking? I’m worried about you.”

"It's nothing against you, Malik, I think maybe I'm just too tired to function." Asakonigei admitted to her husband. "There has been a lot of work lately and perhaps, my body is just telling me I need a break. Even my magic feels a little off." She held up the fork, watching it twist and contort into a various shape before returning to normal.

“Then rest. Zarazu and your cousins can sustain themselves for now, and you’ve done enough marvellous work for me in the time being.”

"Are you going to join me?" Asakonigei took the cozy spot on the bedding. "You've been working a lot as well lately."

“I can spare some time.” Malik took off his armour, setting it on a Manikin. Settling beside his wife, he rested a hand on her hand. “You eat anything off?”

"Not that I can think of." Asakonigei thought of the meals of the previous few days. "Maybe it's just the heat of the desert and the combination of working in the forge. It's possible that I'm dehydrated."

“You don’t seem to have any signs, but I can look into it. Would you like to see a doctor here?”

"Perhaps I should... but later, I'd like to rest a little first. I'm tired." Asakonigei sighed as she snuggled into Malik. "Just hold me and keep me company."

Malik held her closer, breathing slowly. “You think Revan is still mad at us? Donoma didn’t paint a bright picture.”

"I think Revan knows we're proud of him, but I do wish we could have been there to support him." Asakonigei tried to imagine her son in the arena. Knowing him, he would be too stubborn and get hurt a few times. Not to mention, he'd do something stupid just to prove a point. That was how he had always been. "We'll make it up to him and celebrate his new position when we are both home."

“I think how he fought is doing wonders for his reputation.”

"Doing wonders for his ego you mean." Asakonigei chuckled. "Just like his father."

“No offence to you or Zarazu, but a warrior is much grander than a wizard. Besides a letter from Tulilad wanting me to chip in his children’s medical fee, I see no downsides from Revan’s experience. He can’t have us around to coddle him for every ceremony he attends.”

"That has nothing to do with ego. Even you liked to show off during your younger days and even before that." Asakonigei had to tease her husband, just a little. "Then again, you still do show off."

“Alright. Maybe I can admit it’s in our blood.” Malik rested a hand on his wife’s stomach.

"In your blood, you mean." Asakonigei closed her eyes. "Just... wake me up in a little bit." She yawned, getting comfortable.

“It’s the middle of the day Asa.” Malik squeezed her hand lightly. “I’m worried about you. Why are you so tired?”

"I'm not sure, but it's nothing serious." Asakonigei mumbled, already dozing. "I'd tell you if I felt sick."

Malik let her settle into his chest as a pillow while he silently thought about the possible situations. When his mind went to sicknesses shared by women, his heart skipped a beat. Without moving, he recollected his thoughts. He had unprotected sex with his wife to rejuvenate their relationship and fill her needs. Did Asakonigei stop using the leaf? Did she feel that it was no longer necessary? With tension rising, he remembered how sick she could get before. Worse, how she her body nearly killed her after the last pregnancy. Not wanting to wake her, he let seeds of fear plant themselves within his mind.

Asakonigei slept for nearly three full hours. She was disoriented when she fully roused from slumber. The Kovina was certainly surprised to see her husband still at her side. This was odd. Usually, he was the one up and about, making sure everything was ready and perfect. She figured he had work to do. It seemed there was still a little daylight left. Maybe now she could try eating something... but what? Something plain... salty maybe? No, she was dehydrated, salt might make it worse. Maybe a rice cake would be tasty... but she hated rice cakes. When was the last time she ate one? Goodness, was too much work making her system shot?

Malik spooned her close, one hand tenderly playing with a lock of her hair. “Need water my flower?”

"Water would be nice." Asakonigei blinked sleepily, then slowly sat up on the bedding. "And maybe a rice cake. Do we have any of those?"

“I can get you one.” Malik cupped his hands around her after reaching over to grab a glass of readied water.

Sipping on the water, Asakonigei downed the glass slowly to make sure she did not feel too out of sorts. "Don't know why I want one of those, I detest the taste. Maybe because they're sort of bland to me."

“It’s because you’re pregnant.”

"...? What?" Asakonigei gave her husband an incredulous look. "Malik, I can't be pregnant. I'm five years away from fifty!" The Kovina shook her head. "Besides, Doctor Boveir told me it was probably near impossible for me to get pregnant again after Donoma."

“No. He said it was not recommended or that you might die. He never said that it wasn’t possible.”

"... you're being serious, aren't you?" Asakonigei kept telling herself it just... could not be. She had hoped that her body would be strong enough after Donoma. How many nights had she prayed for more children? Malik deserved a big family, she wanted to give him many sons and daughters. Appointment after appointment with Doctor Boveir said it just was not so.

“I am.” Malik’s hands flexed around her, the tension cutting the air.

"... I..." Asakonigei was too stunned to formulate a proper response. "But... I..."

Malik turned her around, kissing her lightly. “We’ll get through this. I’ll figure something out. I won’t let you die from this Asa.”

Asakonigei felt excited... and absolutely terrified at the same time. A child was a blessing, but... in this case, was it her death sentence? With Revan, she tore. With Donoma, she hemorrhaged. With this baby... a shudder ran throughout her body, the panic evident in her eyes. She was not ready to die yet, she did not want to leave her family. "Oh spirits..." Asakonigei trembled slightly, "I... I don't even know if I can... if I can give birth safely."

“What do you want to do with... it.” Malik was unsure if he should be referring to the baby as an it, but he wanted to reassure his wife.

"I can't... I don't want to get rid of the baby." Asakonigei shook her head. "It's part of me, part of you. I always wanted to have more children, to give you the big family you deserved but..." She held tightly to his hand. "I'm scared..."

“I...” Malik lowered his head, taking slow and deep breaths. He needed to assure his wife’s safety. “Stay here. No more jobs. No more working for Zarazu. No more traveling. You will stay where it is safe under my watchful eye. If anyone can help me find the power to deliver our third child safely it will be in a city full of women.” To ease his own worries, Malik carrressed a cheek of Asakonigei. “I’ll find any power I need to keep you safe. I promise.”

"I believe you..." Asakonigei took a shaky breath. While she was afraid, the Kovina had to take moment to calm her nerves. It would do her nor the baby good if she was too stressed. She had to be very careful, even more so than with Revan and Donoma. "I'll have a message delivered to the queen. Muso has been my apprentice for a long while and I'm sure he can handle things for now. We'll... we'll need a few things from home if you wish for me to stay here."

“My people and I will take care of you. If you need anything, don’t feel afraid to call for me, Gali, or anyone else.” Malik slowly left the embrace of his wife. It pained him, but he too had duties to attend to still. “I’ll make a prayer to the goddesses. Perhaps Zelda’s soul will bless you.”

"We need to let Donoma and Revan know too." Asakonigei was tempted to pull him back, but she knew there were other responsibilities for her husband besides her well being. "I'll... pray to Kovina."

“Yes. I’ll ask them to come here with Ganondorf... It’s time they all see what I’ve built here.” Malik spoke last sentence softly to himself as he looked up at the setting summer sun.

~

Five months had passed, and Asakonigei was now showing a bit of a belly. She mainly stayed on bedrest to lessen the stress on her body. Yet, she still insisted on short daily walks to stretch her legs and for healthy exercise. The morning sickness was not as severe as it was with Revan and Donoma, but she still could not stand the smell of meat. To cure herself of boredom, Asakonigei took on small projects, like fixing jewelry or cracked weapons, jobs that did not take much magic at all. She was grateful for any visitors, yet still worried about the impending birth of her child. Hopefully, Doctor Boveir could visit soon and at least tell her if a C-section was an option. Supposedly, there were more dependable tests and methods nowadays. That, and she really, really wanted to know if the baby was a boy or girl. He could deliver a Lorleidian test to tell her the gender of her little one.

The Gerudo around Taiyo Town seemed to be hospitable around Asakonigei, though she did hear soft whispers behind her back. She couldn’t tell if they were comments of sympathy or pity. One day, however, she was interrupted by Gali when the Lorliedian was on a walk from the market. “Dear me. Should you be carrying that water melon by yourself?”

"The one in my belly or the one in my arms?" Asakonigei asked with a tone of humor. "Either way, the weight is pressing."

“Will you allow me to relieve some of that weight?”

"You can take the actual melon." Asakonigei was a touch surprised and then carefully handed Gail the large fruit. "I figured you'd be helping my husband."

“I have more jobs then helping Lord Malik. Studies for the uneducated and helping the townsfolk personally come to mind.” Gali graciously took the water melon and lugged it to Asakonigei’s kitchen back at the small palace. “Tell me, your daughter has returned, but your son has yet to visit. He too busy with his new job as a babysitter to see his momma? Perhaps you should exaggerate your condition in your next letter.”

"Donoma has more of a flexible schedule than Revan." Asakonigei had to admit to Gail. "I do understand why he has not come to visit. Protecting the future queen is an honorable job, but a demanding one as well. My husband used to guard Queen Zarazu herself, so I'm not surprised that he has not come here yet." The Kovina did not sound too upset about the fact that her son had not visited. Keeping Luimaya safe was difficult and he did not need the added stress of worrying about his mother being pregnant in her forties. "Perhaps when the future queen decides to come here, I will see him then."

“I heard the Royal family has not arrived here yet because the Old One himself wishes for all his children to be present before coming to see Malik’s grand creation of Taiyo Town.”

"If that is true, then I wish Ganondorf all the luck in the world." Asakonigei tried not to laugh. "King Covarog and Queen have five children, Prince Ralnor and his wife have three, Princess Orana and her husband have three, Princess Kanisa and her husband have two, and Prince Tebanam and his husband only have one."

“Well. We await their arrival in anticipation. Tell me Asakonigei, what do you hope for next? A boy? Or a girl?”

"If I'm being honest, Donoma was a lot easier to take care of as a baby. She didn't cry too much unless she was hungry or wet. She only caught my hair on fire once when she burped." Asakonigei recalled when her children were little. "Revan peed everywhere. He was always getting into something. I just about had a heart attack when he used his magical abilities to move some sharp weapons, to juggle them. Not to mention, he's is very stubborn like his father."

“So indeed, another girl.” Gali chuckled as she reached their destination. Setting the water melon down, she took a breath to relax. “Asa? Can I call you Asa? How’d you like to relax at a spot that even Lord Malik won’t step in?”

"Girls are so much easier because boys piss like a hose. Yet, either way, I just want the child to be healthy, regardless of whether it is a boy or a girl." Asakonigei ran a hand back through her hair. "Asa is fine, though I am curious about this spot that my husband avoids."

“Women’s only Hot Spring. You interested?”

"That... sounds absolutely delightful." Asakonigei thought about the heat melting into her back muscles. The pressure of pregnancy would hopefully fade away after a little bit of relaxation.

“Then please, follow me.” Gali smiled tenderly as lead the Lorliedian to the East side of the village. Giant walls to divide sections for privacy were made out of stone and wood. Gali paid a front desk receptionist and headed to the the left hallway. “We have a women’s, men’s, and a small mixed side. So far, our biggest side, and only used at the moment, is women’s. Towel?”

Along the way, Asakonigei had to stop and take several small breaks. It was difficult for her to keep up with the added weight of the pregnancy. Once at the hot springs, Asakonigei was impressed by the outlay and the design. It was beautiful and private. "Yes, please." Asakonigei took the fluffy towel. "This is going to do wonders for my back."

“Hope you’re not modest.” When Gali opened the doors to the hot spring, every woman was buck naked. The inside of the springs was made of natural resources and mechanical engineering. Pools of water pouring into one another, single person sized pots to melt into, and a room the shape of a dragon egg. When a Gerudo walked out, thick steam poured out before the door sealed it back in as it swung close. This particular woman headed to a clear pool of cold water to cool off. There was one or two women who weren’t Gerudo, but most were filled with the red headed giant women. Behind Asa, Gali finished folding all her clothes. “You feeling ready to go in?”

"Um..." Asakonigei turned slightly red in the cheeks. "Not around my husband, but... uh..." There were a lot of women in there. She did not mind other women seeing her naked, but these were buff, strong, extremely ripped women. She felt rather... small.

“Shy?” Gali laughed lightly. “Don’t worry about the nerves. Take a few deep breaths.”

"Not... exactly. You're just all..." Asakonigei gestured to one extremely tall Gerudo lady walking by with a shredded eight pack. "That."

“Hahaha!” That really got a laugh out of Gali. She walked in front of Asa, fairly comfortable with being naked and her chest so close to the woman. “Asa, most of us might be built a little mightier than what you’re used to seeing, but we are still people. But if it makes your ego more at ease, Gerudo come in all sizes. Koyta over there is as thin as a Deku, all because she insists on a fruit only diet. Holly is as mighty as Goron because she eats whatever she desires.” Both of the Gerudo mentioned waved as Gali pointed them out. “What I’m saying is we come in all shapes and sizes, yet we are a tribe non the less. Besides, we aren’t going to crush you.”

"Aren't going to crush me? That I don't believe, you could sit on me and crush me if you wanted to." Asakonigei said in good humor. "Though, I think I'm just a bit intimidated. My family always joke that they don't know how my own husband didn't break me."

“Then become as naked and vulnerable as we are Asakonigei. Become a sister with us.”

"... I..." Asakonigei was not sure exactly how she felt being naked in front of all the women. The scar from the lightning, the stretch marks from her pregnancies, and a few scars over the years... it did make her feel self-conscious. Yet, there were women here who shared similar marks. "All right." She carefully removed the towel and took slow steps into the hot springs.

“You look wonderful Asa. That’s it. Make yourself comfortable.” Gali sat beside her, sighing in content as she felt the heat of the water seek into her pours.

"Oooooh.... this feels so good..." Asakonigei sunk into the water with a heavy, contented sigh. "I need Malik to build me one of these right outside our home."

“You don’t consider the town yet a home?”

"It's a second home. I hope you understand," Asakonigei told Gail. "I can't just up and leave my uncles, cousins, and their children back in Hyrule. I really miss them. They're all I have besides Malik, Revan, and Donoma."

“And your unborn child.” Gali slowly pointed a finger towards Asa, trailing a finger over the water to the Kovani’s stomach.

"Yes..." Asakonigei rested her hands on her ever-growing belly. "I've been thinking of names, but... Malik seems more so worried than excited. Not saying I'm not concerned either, just... I don't want him to have contempt for the child if..." She took a small inhale. "If I don't make it."

“We’d do our best to help look after the child. In the mean time, we will do our best to look after you.”

"... I do appreciate it. I really do." Asakonigei smiled softly. "Either way... my baby will be in good hands." She then shifted slightly, "I know the kid will be strong. Already kicking my bladder."

“Asa. Do I sense worry in your tone that your words do not match? Every turn you seem to have worry.” Gali carefully lifted a single leg out of the water, watching the droplets fall and drip off her skin.

"I do have worries, some about the baby, mainly about Malik." Asakonigei had no reason to lie. "Though I have made my peace with the possibility that I may not live through this birth. I nearly died with Donoma, lost too much blood. Malik... I don't think he has."

“No. He told me of his contingency plan, but he has more fear than hope.” Gali swam a little closer to Asa, taking deep breaths due to the heat. “Tell me Asa. Do you fear your husband in any way?”

"Fear Malik?" Asakonigei shook her head. "I have no reason to fear him. I do, however, think he's very stubborn, impatient, and has a horrible habit of thinking he knows better when sometimes he doesn't... but no, I don't fear him. I've never feared him."

Good.... he asked me to kill him if that after he becomes King, if he might someday turn fall down the path of a Tyrant he be taken out.” Gali let the words hang in the air, sighing deeply.

"...!!!" This was news to Asakonigei. Malik said nothing of becoming king. Nothing of Gail making a promise to kill him if he became like Ganondorf was in the past. "I... I see..."

“There’s been so many Gerudo who have taken a dark path. Twinrova, Adda, Ganondorf... he wishes to not end up a part of that toxic history.”

"I understand that, I just don't understand why he wouldn't..." Asakonigei furrowed her brow, angry but too tired to care at the moment. "Wouldn't tell me."

“Perhaps he didn’t want to burden you Asa. Strife like that need not be shared by his worried lips during such a delicate time for you right now.” Gali turned to Asa, her eyes heavy with knowledge. “I can relate to his worry of becoming another Ganon due to his blood connection with the Old One.”

"I'm his wife, I want to support him, despite whatever else is going on." Asakonigei sounded more frustrated than actually upset. "Malik isn't Ganon but... I know there have been times in his past that holds regret for him."

“He told me that long ago he might have been Ganon. That both he and the Gerudo who would become that era’s Ganon were born at the same time. You think he was robbed of that destiny, or spared?”

"I think destiny can kiss my ass. Any soul can make their own or change their fate." Asakonigei had absolute faith. "My husband was not, and will never be Ganon. While he held onto hate in his past, he is human now. He loves me, his family, and wants to do the best he can."

“But it’s funny how fate sometimes lulls us along a path. Temptation is funny that way.” Gali stood up, stretching out close to Asa. “Care to follow me to the cooling pool?”

"Yes... if I can get up." Asakonigei had to heft her weight forward a few times. The belly always got in the way.

Gali gently lifted Asa out of the water, letting her body be a crutch. “You ever have bad apples in your family?”

"Not that I know of." Asakonigei groaned softly, standing still for a moment. "Still kicking me. You'd think the kid would have some manners, but no, has to kick Mama whenever."

Gali winced as she tapped a toe in the cold water. “I’m going to carefully place you in the water.”

"Sure we can't find a cool one of these for my husband? Might help with his hot-headness." Asakonigei joked as the cold water immersed her. "Though enough about my husband. Tell me of you."

“Well, how about-AHH!” Gali gasped as the cold water made her body harden to the touch. Soon though, she relaxed after a few gasps. “Can’t stand the cold.”

Asakonigei tried to hold back a few giggles. "Well, it seems that no matter where, all Gerudos do not like cold."

“True. Where was I? Oh yes. Myself.” Gali played with the water, a sad smile on her lips. “I probably haven’t shared that the infamous Captain Adda is my half-sister.”

"...?! You're related to that bitch---sorry." Asakonigei could not contain the surprise on her face. "I... don't imagine that's been easy for you."

“Truth is, I don’t know much about her. We’ve only met a handful of times. My mother made a deal with her. Any Gerudo that didn’t want to live the life of the Caravans would go live with Adda.”

"I see. I never met her personally but I heard all the stories." Asakonigei frowned, thinking of all the times that the women caused her friends grief. "She killed one of Admiral Corsaire's crew. Young man by the name of Bogdan Toma Vali. His nickname was Bomba." She then paused and said. "Well, technically, her dragon did... but still..."

“I heard. The last we spoke in person I visited her in prison. She told me much about how her life crumbled around her. She even told me the identity of two nieces I have.”

"Yes, Alexandria and Elizabeth." Asakonigei knew the two young girls from their encounters over the years. "I think they're both married now with kids."

“I’ve sent out invitations before hoping to meet them, but they’ve proven allusive.”

"I'm sorry the twins haven't reached out. Perhaps you need a mediator between you and them?" Asakonigei suggested to Gail. "I'm sure that they have their reasons, and are probably very hurt still by their mother. Though, I do think they should at least give you a chance. To prove you're not Adda."

“That’d be nice. But trying to convince two mid thirties women just travel across the world is difficult task. Stubborn like their mother.” Gali sighed as she relaxed further into the cool water.

"You could go to them? I'd ask Orana if you could have passage on one ship of her husbands?"

“Can’t. Too much to do here. Practically Chieftain here if Malik wasn’t concerned.”

"Well, you know, you can always have an assistant. Muso is mine; he helps me watch after things when I'm gone form the forge."

“For now, I’m Malik’s assistant. Can’t have an assistant to an assistant. Could take care of your needs to you know? You’re only going to get bigger and bigger.”

"... unfortunately, you do have a point." Asakonigei did have to admit that Gail was right. Soon enough, she'd have to be on strict bedrest. No more moving unless absolutely necessary. "I... won't lie. I am afraid."

“Good. Fear makes you human. I’d be weary of you if you weren’t afraid.”

"The only person I've ever met that never shows her fear is Zolori, the queen's sister. That woman is made of steel, I tell you." Asakonigei then jolted in the water, gasping, "Oh wow!!! That was a big kick!!! Here, feel." She took Gail's hand and placed it on her belly. "Really moving today. That makes me feel a little better. The baby's healthy."

“I never had children. Too afraid of bringing them into the world. But you.” Gali placed a hand on the mother to be’s stomach. “You feel strong Asa.”

"I have to be strong. Look who I put up with." Asakonigei said dryly, indicting her husband. "I was raised by my uncles who each had a son. I grew up around all men. When you have to avoid your cousins who like to wrestle and put you in headlocks, you learn a thing or two. Besides," She patted her belly. "Childbirth wasn't necessarily the hardest thing I ever had to do. Learning to be patient, learning to love, learning to let go... that's harder."

“For the sake of your child and safety, you might have to let go of much.” Gali kissed Asa lightly on the forehead in a kind gesture. “I don’t say this as a home wrecker, hopefully as a friend, but if anything did happen to you, we’d look after Malik, but more importantly your children. However, we are determined to not have that happen. You’re going to be one of us Asakonigei.”

"It's going to be nice to have some sisters when I grew up with all boys." Asakonigei appreciated the heartfelt words. "I know my family will be in good hands if I do not survive the birth. My Revan and Donoma are strong, and I know this child will be as well. I just... want to be here."

“That is the beauty of motherhood and life.” Gali closely hugged Asa close, feeling no shame. “You’ll be alive to enjoy those moments, I swear it.”

Asakonigei turned a little red when her face was that close to Gail's cleavage. "I need you to promise me something though, Gail..."

Gali moved away, nodding down towards her. “Yes?”

"There... might come a choice when it's either me or the baby." Asakonigei steadied her nerves and then said. "... Malik will choose to save me. Don't let him. Save the baby... please."

“I will do what I can.”

________________________________________________________________

Previous Ch. https://mrneighbourlove.tumblr.com/post/622482284480774144/the-rising-sun-ch-3-test-your-might

Next Ch. https://mrneighbourlove.tumblr.com/post/622677305470402560/the-rising-sun-ch-5-power-exchanged

Crossover with @ridersoftheapocalypse starring our characters!

[pokeasleepingsmaug]

The Raider’s Wife: Part One

So literally the same day I said I hadn’t written anything about Hvitserk, a request for an imagine involving him found its way into my inbox! The request was: a Hvitserk imagine where the reader is a princess and he and Bjorn are on a raid and to become allies, Bjorn notices Hvitserk has taken an interest in you, so Bjorn and the king (your dad) agree you and Hvitserk will marry as an ally. This is going to be a multi-parter, because I just love this idea so much! I started writing it and just couldn’t stop. Here’s part one, I hope you like it, nonny!

It can be read below, or it can be read on AO3 here: http://archiveofourown.org/works/11491590/chapters/25776891

The rumors of these men in their fast ships had reached your kingdom only a few days before the men themselves—their ships were so swift they were almost faster than rumors. Your homeland was sun-drenched, a land of rolling hills and fertile soil. Your father ruled only a small kingdom along the coast, but its position was vital. The seat of his power was a city with high walls, right in the place the sea narrowed to a channel between the mainland and the nearby island. It was a hub of trade, an exciting city full of people from many far-off lands.

But the men from the north, with their harsh tongue and coarse customs, had never walked these broad streets. You first saw their ships from the ramparts—you loved to watch the sun rise over the sea. It was a clear morning, your keen eyes could see for miles. But there was no need. The long, lean ships, their sails the color of hellfire, were close enough that you could hear the splash of their oars in your bright blue ocean, could see the water dripping from them as they left the water. The prows on the front of the ships were hideous; growling wolves and dragons with curved teeth.

You couldn't stop the scream that flew from your lips—you had to warn somebody, anybody, of the doom that was about to befall your beloved home. Every eye from down below turned to you, their shock mirroring yours. Clearly they had expected to strike before anyone was awake. One of them waved to you, you almost swore you could see a grin stretching his mouth. You ran down the stone steps of the city walls as fast as your shaking knees would carry you. Your feet pounded along the street and you hitched your skirt high with your hands. Damn decorum, God would forgive you this moment of indecency when the lives of your people were on the line.

You crashed through the door of the guard house in a disheveled rush, “the...Northmen are...here,” you panted, trying to catch your breath. Both panic and the unexpected run made it difficult.

“Luca, take the princess back to the palace immediately. Do not leave her until you have delivered her into the hands of the king's household guard. After that, run back, rousing as many men as you can, and lead them to the walls.” The captain turned his attention from you, and a tall, dark-haired young man, sword at his hip and shield slung across his back, ushered you out the door. You jogged back to the palace, the silent guard behind you the whole way.

The palace guards sprang to attention when they saw you approaching, and finally your guardian spoke. “The Northmen have arrived at our city gates. The captain of the guard will send a message about the invaders as soon as he is able.” He placed his hand between your shoulder blades and shoved you roughly forward. “The princess alerted us of their coming. She has saved us all.” And then he turned and ran, shouting as he went, rousing the men to arms in defense of our home.

The guards hurried you inside the palace, one escorting you to your father's chamber and the other running off to alert the captain of the news. Three hard knocks on his heavy wooden door and you were invited inside. The guard dropped instantly to his knees in a deep bow, but you couldn't stop yourself from blurting the news. “The Northmen have come! The ones who have been plundering the coast.”

Your father regarded you, nodding. “I suspected they would.” He turned to the guard. “On your feet, man, there is no time for this. Gather my children, take them to my wife's chamber. I will have four guards posted there, two within the chamber and two without. I go to the gates.” Irritation flashed through you as the guard placed his hand on your shoulder to guide you to your mother's chamber. Did these men have no respect for their princess?

They worked swiftly, and soon you sat in your mother's chambers, eating breakfast with your younger sisters. The food turned to ash in your mouth, and you pushed it away. Your mother—believing idle hands to be an invitation for sin��somehow found embroidery for you to do, even during a raid. You sighed. The city could be in flames around you, and still your unshakable, dutiful mother would be tending to her work. Your younger brother sat at Mother's knee, reading an old Bible aloud. You envied him the easier work, but had to admit you found the familiar passages comforting.

It was near mid-day when your father returned to the palace, releasing you from the prison of embroidering in your mother's chambers. It wasn't that you disliked embroidery, you simply preferred weaving. And not being locked in one room all day was even better. The guard informed you all that you were to meet your father in the hall for the noon meal.

Your mother sent you off to your room with a maid to redo your hair. You hadn't bothered to fix it after your misadventures that morning. Quickly, the maid pinned your curls into place and straightened the cap covering your hair, and you made your way quickly to the hall to join your family for the meal.

Except it wasn't just your family. Your father was seated at the table with a small group of the Northmen, and your knees turned to water just like they had earlier. “My daughter,” your father greeted you, beckoning to you to come sit at the table. “Our guests do not speak our language, I am afraid, but they do speak the Frankish tongue. I know your mother has taught you the language of her people.”

You moved toward the seat your father motioned you to, dread curling itself in your belly as you took your place between two of the Northmen. One of them—you were almost certain he was the one that waved at you from his ship, arrogant man—turned his attention to you immediately. “What is your name? I am called Hvitserk.” He did indeed speak the Frankish tongue, but the words fell clumsily from his mouth. You tried to hide your disgust at his poor mastery of the language, and at the ugliness of his name. Hvitserk? What a harsh, strange language they had, if that one word was any indication at all.

“My name is Y/n,” you told him, the Frankish language coming easily to you. You hoped he would feel embarrassed by his clumsy way of speaking, maybe see that him and his people simply did not belong here. Maybe it would send him back to the ice and snow he came from, never to bother your sunny shores again.

“Your home is pretty,” he told you, taking a large bite out of a chicken leg. You pursed your lips in distaste. Obviously this man was incapable of feeling shame, doomed heathen that he was. What had your people done to offend God so, that he sent these wild men to plague you? However, unlike this man, you had manners.

You took a delicate bite of bread, taking your time to chew and swallow before answering. “Prettier than your home?”

He grinned at you, mouth full of more chicken, and you had to look away from the site. He wouldn't have been so hideous if he had better manners. In fact, you found him quite pleasing to look at—light brown hair pulled back in braids, eyes a shade of green that reminded you of a jade bead your father had given you. His hands—covered in chicken grease, you noted with some disdain—were strong; the tendons stood out beneath his pale skin, startling you. You had never seen hands so strong, and the thought of what they might be capable of sent an involuntary shudder through you.

You'd heard the stories of the Northmen, of course, but seeing them in the flesh, the strength of Hviterk's hands, the mischievous glint in his green eyes.... You could imagine the destruction such men could bring, and before you realized what you were doing, you crossed yourself. God would save you. “Why are you doing that?” Hvitserk asked, reaching for his goblet.

Embarrassed by your rude behavior, you looked down at your plate. It was a good thing Father didn't see you, or he would punish you for that rudeness. “It is to call the protection of God,” you explained. “To bless my food.” You felt only a  little guilty over the lie. It would save Hvitserk's feelings, and perhaps he wouldn't kill you. From what you'd heard of these savages, they were just the type to break bread with a man before killing his family.

Hvitserk considered this, chewing bread. “Does the blessing make it taste better?” You giggled at the absurdity of the question and he grinned at you, the corners of his forest-green eyes crinkling. His chest swelled out with pride, pleased to have gotten a positive reaction from you at last.“You have a pretty laugh.” He swallowed, took another bite, and smiled even as he was chewing. “Good thing I am funny.”

His glimmering green eyes drew a warm blush across your cheeks, widening his grin and forcing you to turn your flustered gaze to your plate. How could this stranger, this heathen, draw such impossible feelings in you already? You should hate him, instead you found yourself intrigued by him, charmed by his easy smile and jade-green eyes, even by his voracious appetite and sickening manners. Everything about this man was so vibrant. You only ever felt this alive watching the sun rise over the ocean. Your quiet, safe life was far from exciting, but that's what it meant to be a princess. He was more open than any person you had ever met, guileless, not wanting to make you laugh than for any reason other than he liked the sound of it.

In his company it was easy to ignore the hum of conversation in the background as Hvitserk continued to smile at you, waggling his eyebrows to make you laugh. You were shocked when your father called for your attention. “Yes, Father?” You tore your eyes away from Hviterk's laughing mouth to find your father's gaze.

“You are to be wed on Sunday. You will help your mother with the preparations.” The air sucked itself from your lungs, leaving you gasping in shock. You knew you were old enough to be wed, and there had been several suitors seeking your hand, but your father had made no mention to you of choosing one. In fact, he had seemed unimpressed by every single one.

“To whom, Father?”

“The young man sitting beside you. I believe his name is Hvitserk.” Your father was speaking in your native tongue, but upon hearing his name Hvitserk looked up. His eyes traveled from your father's face to yours, confusion plain on his features, and he looked to the man with the long blond braid for answers. You'd been so intent on Hvitserk before you'd barely noticed him. Even though he smiled, the words sounded harsh and low coming from his throat. Would you be forced to speak that terrible language, to hear it every day until you died? This must be God punishing you for your indecency this morning, showing your legs as you ran through the city.

The tall blond stopped speaking at the choking sound from the chair beside you, and the man on the other side of Hvitserk—another blond—pounded on his back. Hvitserk gasped, took a drink to compose himself, and turned his shocked green eyes to you with a weak smile. “I....” he shrugged. “There could be worse things, right?” You nodded slowly, still in shock. As far as punishments go, marrying a heathen was about as bad as it could get, no matter the jade of his eyes or the strength of his hands.

[magically-strange]

Reunited

Strange Magic Week 2017 - Canon Divergence Theme

AO3 link

A year ago, Marianne thought she knew what true heartbreak was.  She had cried and wallowed, convinced that her pain was beyond measure. 

How miserably foolish, because now, kneeling here in the dirt, at the edge of a cliff, staring down into a dark, dusty void where a mighty castle and its equally mighty king had fallen only moments before sunrise, she realized…

…hell, that pain hadn’t even come close to this.

It was as if a falcon had ripped a chunk from her breast with its razor-sharp talons and she was bleeding a river from the wound.  Her frozen shock gradually melted into tears pattering the uncaring ground, and she found herself longing to fade with the waning night that had shown her such wonders.

As the cruel morning grew, so did her despair, for it was a reminder of the endless slew of days she would continue to face alone.  To think, she once had the gall to believe she was stronger that way.  Oh, the irony!  She was as fragile and tragic as frost on a wilting lotus.  

It was all her fault.  

Why?

Why hadn’t she listened?

She really was stupid.  

So, so, so STUPID!!!

If she’d gotten back, as he’d warned her to, he wouldn’t have had to slow down his momentum.  Both he and Dawn would’ve made it out safely. But no, she just had to be all stubborn and heroic!  Never counting the cost, just acting without thinking it all through!  And she’d finally paid the ultimate price for her recklessness.  

She’d…killed him.  

The one person she never thought could’ve existed, who had challenged her, accepted her, protected her, and of course, exceeded her expectations, though she’d teased otherwise.

But she’d lost him.  

It was all the worse that he was an innocent soul.  Yes, he had abducted her sister, but only in retaliation to being wronged first and trying to prevent mass chaos.  She honestly couldn’t say that her kingdom would not have done something similar, had they been in his place.  Damn the senselessness of it all!

When Dawn approached and gently touched her shoulder in comfort, she was quick to conceal the majority of her woe so she could embrace her, beyond grateful to the heavens that she was free from that cursed spell.  And though she was happy for Dawn and Sunny as she watched them take hands, she loathed herself for feeling the slightest twinge of jealousy.  

Their love was blossoming at last.  Hers had ended before it could begin.  

It just wasn’t fair.

Unable to bear it, she pulled away from her sister’s arms and gazed mournfully down into the pit one last time.  For what reason, she did not know.  Survival would’ve been impossible, and nothing but grey, lifeless fog stared back up at her.  She took a deep breath, despite how much it greatly hurt her to do so, and swayed to turn…

…but she paused.

.

.

.

She could’ve sworn she’d heard something.  Something unusual amidst the waking forest and the grief-stricken whimpers of the goblins in the mixed crowd behind her.  

It sounded…like a distant cough from….  

No.

It couldn’t be.

She was just hearing things.  

…Yet she still had not moved an inch.

Daring to hope that fate would be kind to her just once more, she crept to the edge of the cliff and tilted her head to hear, silencing Dawn’s inquiry with a wave of her hand.  

For several long, terrible moments, she heard nothing but her own breathing and the rapid drum of her pulse in her ears.

Sorrow tightened its fist in her stomach and she began to yield…

-but then it came.

Her heart shot straight up through her throat and into her very brain at the faint, but unmistakable voice calling for help from below.

Caught up in an immediate cyclone of emotions and energy she could neither name nor control, she acted upon pure instinct and threw herself from the ledge, shooting into the chasm like an arrow.  Thankfully, some semblance of logic gripped her mind before she could blindly dive into the fog concealing what she knew to be at least massive chunks of jagged rubble.  She spread her wings to catch herself and descended more slowly into the unknown.  

Once past the fog, visibility improved, but only just.  She was surrounded by immense clouds of dust and black, towering shapes of debris, stone, or root; she could not tell in the dim light.  

Her panic rose when she realized she had not heard the voice again.

“BOG?!  BOG, CAN YOU HEAR ME?!”

She tried not to flinch at the sound of her harsh echo bouncing through the abyss, making it seem all the more empty.  The following seconds were the longest of her lifetime, and she prayed she was not going mad.

Please, please, please!  Oh, please!!!

“…Marianne?!”

!!!

“Marianne, i-is that you?!”

A joy she had not known since the day she first learned to fly erupted within her chest at the far off, but blessed answer.

“BOG!  BOG, WHERE ARE YOU?!”  Marianne screamed, spinning about, trying to pinpoint the origin.

“Here!  Marianne, I’m here!”  

Selecting a seemingly northward direction, Marianne carefully, but urgently, made her way through the murk and gloom.  Lower and lower she flew, coughing on dust and occasionally calling out to make sure she maintained her path.  

Bog’s voice grew louder and closer, and eventually, she saw what appeared to be the floor of the trench. She reached out with the toe of her boot to test its stability: it gave way beneath her foot like sand.  It was not soil, but mounds of splintered wood. She was nearing the center of the wreckage.

Randomly, she was struck by the awful supposition that Bog might be mortally wounded; that she would find him only to lose him all over again.  She shook the offensive fear away.  No, she was being paranoid.  He sounded too strong to be badly hurt.

Venturing further, she soon caught sight of something white in the distance.  Picking up speed, it was revealed to be the skull that once marked the entrance to the castle, tilted on its left side, and half crushed under a mountain of dirt and broken bark.    

Breath too stolen for speech, Marianne raced to alight upon the dead face, eyes raking over the horrible cracks and chips in the bone, when suddenly, a hand, scaled and clawed, shot out through a narrow gap in the clenched teeth with such abruptness, she gasped in surprise, but was almost instantly grabbing and tugging at it to wind the whole arm around her.  

“Bog!  Oh, Bog!”    

Fresh sobs of pure, insurmountable elation sprang forth at the sound of Bog’s relieved laughter from within, and for what could’ve been a millennium, they awkwardly, but no less passionately held each other tight.    

“Marianne,” Bog managed to say after some time, “I-I can’t get out.  It’s too heavy, an’ I sprained my other arm.  Can ye help me?”

Reality crashed over Marianne like a felled tree, and she blushed as she entangled herself from Bog’s grasp and wildly looked around for an avenue of escape from his prison. Briefly, she considered going back to the cliff to gather assistance from the crowd, but she was far too impatient for that, not to mention seriously reluctant to leave Bog’s side.

Think!  There’s gotta be a way!

“Bog, your staff!  Do you still have it?”

“…Yes, why?”

“I’ve got an idea! Stick the top of the staff though the hole; about halfway out!”

Bog did as he was instructed, and Marianne seized the iron weapon just below the decorative crown.

��Now what?”  Bog asked.

“When I tell you, push the jaws open as hard as you can.  I’m gonna try to use the staff as a kind of lever to help you.  Got it?”

“Alright, I got it!”

“Ready?”

“…Yeah!”

“One…two…three!  GO!”  

It was difficult, knowing that their angle was off, and that her weight wouldn’t do her any favors, Marianne was forced to pull up on the staff instead of push down, using her wings to give her extra force. She could hear Bog grunting and straining inside the mouth, but the dull scraping sounds of bone sliding against bone egged her on.  The shattered, wooden remains of Bog’s home trembled from the gradual movement and rolled off the obscured cranium, lightening their load by degrees. Marianne pulled harder as she saw the mossy teeth parting.

Yes, yes!  Almost there!

What happened next, nearly scared her so bad, her hair turned white.  There was a deafening snap, and she felt the rod jerk unnaturally towards her.  She had not broken Bog’s royal staff, fortunately, only the top of the skull.  The weapon carved a vicious path through the brittle bone like glass.  

At the unsteady lurch, the dilapidated stump fragments cascaded down like a mudslide, but Bog was faster.  Fighting against the current of rubbish, Bog wriggled himself through the impromptu opening Marianne had created, and was free.

For a beat, the two just gaped at each other, one in gratitude and tenderness, the other in awe and rapture that she was lost in those beautiful sky-blue eyes again.

“Thank ye, Marianne.”

“Bog!”  Marianne breathed, dropping the staff and rushing to cup his thin, prickly cheeks, scanning him in vain for injuries.  “Oh, thank goodness!  Are you okay?!”

He nodded and smiled at her with his crooked fangs.

“Yes.  Yes, I’m fine; wings, shoulders, head…all good, Tough Gir-!”

Hearing his favorite nickname for her, Marianne tossed all sense of decorum and pride to the wind. She cut him off by throwing herself into his arms and kissing him as if there was no tomorrow.

But there would be, and as Bog shyly returned her kiss, she knew there would be many, and they would spend each and every one of them together.

[anastasiachristou]

PHOTOGRAPHY MAJOR PROJECT 1: INTERVIEW REGARDING THE TURKISH INVASION

During my research for Major Project 1, I got in touch through email with a former resident of Famagusta who experienced the Turkish Invasion in Cyprus, 1974.  His name is Demetrios and he was introduced to me by a fellow student. I got the opportunity to ask him a couple of questions regarding the Turkish Invasion which he kindly took the time and responded in detail.

 Interview with Demetrios:

Demetrios is Cypriot, born in Tanzania. He spent his school years in boarding schools in Tanzania, then Athens and the last two years at The English School of Nicosia, Cyprus getting his GCEs.

 Anastasia Christou: Were you a resident in Famagusta or were you just visiting at that time?

Demetrios: I graduated from University in England in International Relations in 1973, and I was doing extra studies there, when my father asked for my help as he was setting up a new business in a village west of Famagusta, in January 1974. He was setting up a factory manufacturing bulk sacks for agricultural produce such as potatoes, and industrial ropes and twines.

The factory started operating in May of 1974. Bad timing! As I was working there, I was also taking a MA degree in Business Administration through the United Nations sponsored program. A few fellow students were Turkish Cypriots as was one of the lecturers. I was in Nicosia driving to one of the lectures when the coup begun by the Greek officers.

 AC: What were your initial thoughts about the situation at that time? What was your action plan?

D: Having a strong interest in politics, and my parents fearing for my safety due to my left-wing opinions after the April 21st, 1967 right-wing military coup in Greece, I ended up at the English School in Nicosia. Cyprus politics were very turbulent then with Makarios being a thorn to the Greek military junta’s side. I was worried the regime in Greece would try to destabilize Makarios (President at that time) with American help, as they did not see eye to eye with him.

When the coup in Cyprus happened I was afraid this would open the door to Turkey to invade. I thought it was unlikely but not impossible. I didn’t think the Americans would allow it. But Kissinger was the first to recognize Sampson’s government. There was no action planned because we did not think the Turks would invade.

  AC: Were you alone in Cyprus, or did you have family or other people with you?

D: On the 15th of July 1974, when the Turkish Invasion began, we thought we would be safe in Famagusta, but then the airstrikes started. Not being a Cypriot citizen (British citizen and passport having been born in Tanzania, then a British colony) I was not called up in the army and I was eating watermelon for breakfast with my mother. My mother had volunteered as a nurse, (having been one before marriage, in 1948) and was working with Doctor Marangos looking after the wounded and she was home to get a few hours of rest.

Our home was right on the beach between two hotels called Constantia and Florida. One of the bombs hit the hotel next to our building which flattened half of it. At that time my grandparents and a few other relatives had taken refuge in our house. We all rushed to the basement and felt all fourteen floors above us sway, from the continuing bomb blasts. We could hear the Turkish jets screaming overhead. My grandmother lost it and rushed outside to yell and curse the Turks. My father and I went after her and dragged her back. That is when I saw the devastation: burning cars on the street, half the building next door had collapsed from a direct hit and a mangled body draped over the smouldering rubble.

Once everything went quiet we got in our cars and headed outside Famagusta in the orange groves pondering our next move. The car radio was reporting that the Turks were moving towards Famagusta, so we decided to drive out to Larnaca and then on to Limassol to the safety of my uncle’s village Fasouri which was citrus fruit plantation, and was within the British sovereign near Akrotiri.

 AC: What is your opinion about the Turkish people? Has this changed throughout the years?

D: I never saw the Turkish-Cypriots as the enemy or had any hatred towards them. I saw them as victims of national rivalry between Greece and Turkey: Greece for supporting our once strong desire for Union with “mother” Greece, and Turkey for trying to reclaim Cyprus as part of the Turkish state. My enmity is towards Turkey for having dispossessed me and torn me away from my country to which I have been connected since the Trojan War. 

In the north of Cyprus, near Ayios Georgios village, there is a small sandy beach, not more than a couple of hundred yards long. You will not find it marked on any map. Its name handed down by word of mouth by those living there for the last three thousand or so years? It’s called Akti Acheon. The beach of the Achaeans! Remnants of the Achaeans who were one of the Greek tribes, part of the Greek expedition that fought in the Trojan War. When that ended, some of them landed on that beach; hence its name. That is the thread that connects me and you to Cyprus and its history. That is the connection the Turks have cut off.

My father’s ancestors are buried up there in the village Karavas. In the mid-'80s, some mainland settlers from Turkey heard that Christians were buried with their gold crosses. They tore up the graves at the Karavas cemetery looting them for the gold crosses. Turkish-Cypriots would not  have done that because they were respectful of us, as we were respectful of them until Britain asked Turkey to start getting mixed up again in Cyprus (prohibited from doing so by the Treaty of Lausanne) to forestall Greek-Cypriot demands for union with Greece. The Brits set us up against each other with Turkey and Greece winding us up to start killing each other.

When I was a schoolboy learning about Greek history, Turkey was always the enemy. I was 13 when the troubles started in Cyprus in 1963. As I grew older and started reading for myself I saw that things were not as simple as portrayed in high school history class. I realised that both Greek-Cypriots and Turkish-Cypriots were victims of mother countries’ power games. I feel sorry for the Turkish-Cypriots because they are used as Turkey’s Trojan horse for its attempts to control Cyprus. Ihsan Caglayangil, Turkish foreign minister in the 70s once famously said: we did not come to Cyprus for the Turkish-Cypriot blue eyes. So no, I do not hate the Turkish-Cypriots.

 AC: In regards to the division, and the fact that almost half a decade has passed, do you believe that Cyprus will be one again? If you do follow this political situation, can you please tell me your views about it?

D: Either we carry on like China and Taiwan, unresolved but the rest of the world accepting even informally of the division and learning to accommodate it or there is a solution that nobody is happy with.

It all depends on Erdogan’s (President of Turkey) fate. He is leading Turkey into dangerous waters. He thinks he is turning Turkey into a great power by striking an independent line from the west but getting in bed with Putin will come to no good. Playing the west against Putin is a game played on a razor’s edge. There is no guarantee that not another coup to depose Erdogan and Turkey has a habit of lurching from one economic crisis into another. Unless Turkey is severely weakened it will always try to annex Cyprus, or at least control it through the political control the Turkish-Cypriots will get from a reluctant but imposed solution.

As Greek-Cypriots we never miss an opportunity for a solution. Read about all the solutions proposed since the mid-50s starting with Britain offering us self-determination in ten years with nary a thought about the Turkish-Cypriots -after all, they were an insignificant minority- which naturally, we turned down because we wanted a union and we wanted it now!

 Kolokotronis, Papaflessas and Karaiskakis (important figures of the Greek War of Independence) never compromised, and neither will Greek-Cypriots say as we ignore history and how Greeks won their independence only because it suited the great powers of the day to weaken the Ottoman Empire. We ignore how our great Orthodox leadership wanted nothing to do with 1821 because they were enjoying privileges bestowed by the Ottomans. Leave aside the stories of Germanos III of Old Patras (an Orthodox Metropolitan of Patras who played an important role in the Greek Revolution of 1821, having diplomatic and political activity) blessing the start of the war of independence against the Ottomans. They wanted nothing to do with it. But they teach us this nonsense at school because there is a use for a national narrative that gives us a noble sense of history and that we are our own agents of it. It is a glue that strengthens our national identity.

 Every following proposal for Cyprus was worse than the one before. We think we are the centre of the world and that someday the Virgin Mary will perform a miracle and restore things as rosy as before. And we will also take back Constantinople (Istanbul) and the church bells will ring once again at Hagia Sophia. We are naive, stupid and ahistorical people that refuse to understand how history plays out for tiny nations. You either learn to ride on the back of sharks or you get eaten as you think you are writing golden pages in the history books. The best we can hope for is some solution of a much-decentralised government with minimal compensation for lost properties. A few villages will be handed back along with parts of Famagusta and that will be that.

I will be 70 next year and was 24 when we were ethnically cleansed from our homes and erased from our history. Soon there will be very few who will be alive and remember how things were before 1974. The only ones who will remember or at least keep the problem alive will be Greek-Cypriot politicians who have made their careers from fiery speeches about the “Cyprus Problem”. They will be the ones winding up the chauvinists and earning their votes. How many still clamour to return to Smyrna? They are all dead and Smyrna is only a distant memory in the history books. 

But then, I never thought apartheid would come to an end or that the Soviet Union would one day collapse. Now we never think that China's Communist Party will ever lose power, or that North Korea will fare a similar fate. Yet history can be full of surprises. I live in hope.

[cookiesandcreame1983-blog]

Bible verses for Friday April 14,2017

Blessings bible verses Psalm 1:1 Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. Psalm 67:1-2 May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine upon us, that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations. Psalm 121:7-8 The LORD will keep you from all harm— he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Ezekiel 34:25-26 I will make a covenant of peace with them and rid the land of wild beasts so that they may live in the desert and sleep in the forests in safety. I will bless them and the places surrounding my hill. I will send down showers in season; there will be showers of blessing Luke 11:28 He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” Romans 15:33 The God of peace be with you all. Amen. 1 Corinthians 1:3 Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Galatians 6:18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, sisters and brothers. Amen. Ephesians 1:3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ May the God of your father help you; may the Almighty bless you with the blessings of the heavens above, and blessings of the watery depths below, and blessings of the breasts and womb. Genesis 49:25 (NLT) Blessed are all who fear the Lord, who walk in obedience to him. You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours. Psalm 128:1-2 (NIV) With all my heart I want your blessings. Be merciful as you promised Psalm 119:58 (NLT) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Famous bible verses For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."  John 3:16] "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." [Proverbs 3:15-16] "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." [Psalm 23:4] "I can do all things through him who strengthens me." [Philippians 4:13] "This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." [Psalms 118:24] "You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you." [Isaiah 26:3] "And Mary said, "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word." And the angel departed from her." [Luke 1:38] "The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous man runs into it and is safe." [Proverbs 18:10] "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God," [Romans 3:23] "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope." [Jeremiah 29:11] "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." [Galatians 2:20] "And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him." [Hebrews 11:6] "So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate." [Matthew 19:6] "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." [Ephesians 4:32] "Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me."" [John 14:6] "And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell." [Matthew 10:28] "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth." [2 Timothy 2:15] "Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." [1 Corinthians 13:4-7] "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." [Galatians 5:22-23] "Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the LORD your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you." [Deuteronomy 31:6] ------------------------------------------------------------ Forgiveness bible verses Bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive."  Colossians 3:13] "And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone, so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses." [Mark 11:25] "And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors." [Matthew 6:12] "Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven;" [Luke 6:37] "Do not say, “I will repay evil”; wait for the Lord, and he will deliver you." [Proverbs 20:22] "Do not say, “I will do to him as he has done to me; I will pay the man back for what he has done.”" [Proverbs 24:29] "Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven."" [Matthew 18:21-22] "Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles," [Proverbs 24:17] "Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” To the contrary, “if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." [Romans 12:19-21] "And if he sins against you seven times in the day, and turns to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him." [Luke 17:4] "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you." [Ephesians 4:32] "if my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land." [2 Chronicles 7:14] "To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him" [Daniel 9:9] "For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you." [Psalm 86:5] "And we labor, working with our own hands. When reviled, we bless; when persecuted, we endure;"  [1 Corinthians 4:12] "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."  [1 John 1:9] "But Joseph said to them, “Do not fear, for am I in the place of God? As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. So do not fear; I will provide for you and your little ones.” Thus he comforted them and spoke kindly to them."  [Genesis 50:19-21] "Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing"  [1 Peter 3:9] "And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” And they cast lots to divide his garments." [Luke 23:34] "“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy." [Matthew 5:7] ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Grace bible verses For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God," , Ephesians 2:8] "But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”" [James 4:6] "And are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus," [Romans 3:24] "Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need." [Hebrews 4:16] "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace" [1 Peter 4:10] "The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen." [Revelation 22:21] "Grace be with all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with love incorruptible." [Ephesians 6:24] "Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace" [2 Thessalonians 2:16] "You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus," [1 Timothy 2:1] "so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life." [Titus 3:7] "For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich." [2 Corinthians 8:9] "But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man's trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many." [Romans 5:15] "to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved." [Ephesians 1:6] "And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work." [2 Corinthians 9:8] "For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people," [Titus 2:11] "Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us, from God the Father and from Jesus Christ the Father's Son, in truth and love." [2 John 1:3] "But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace toward me was not in vain. On the contrary, I worked harder than any of them, though it was not I, but the grace of God that is with me." [1 Corinthians 15:10] "May grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord." [2 Peter 1:2] But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works; otherwise grace would no longer be grace." [Romans 11:6] "“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."" [2 Corinthians 12:9] ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Jeremiah bible verses Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. NIV Jeremiah 31:31 "The days are coming," declares the LORD, "when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah." NIV Jeremiah 33:3 "Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.'" NIV Jeremiah 1:5 "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations." NIV Jeremiah 6:16 This is what the LORD says: "Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, 'We will not walk in it.'" NIV Jeremiah 1:8 Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD." NIV Jeremiah 29:13 You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. NIV Jeremiah 31:3 The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness." NIV Jeremiah 10:10 But the LORD is the true God; he is the living God, the eternal King. When he is angry, the earth trembles; the nations cannot endure his wrath. NIV Jeremiah 17:7 "But blessed are those who trust in the LORD, whose confidence is in him." NIV Jeremiah 1:9 Then the LORD reached out his hand and touched my mouth and said to me, "I have put my words in your mouth." NIV Jeremiah 1:12 The LORD said to me, "You have seen correctly, for I am watching to see that my word is fulfilled." NIV Jeremiah 10:23 LORD, I know that people's lives are not their own; it is not for them to direct their steps. NIV Jeremiah 1:19 They will fight against you but will not overcome you, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD." NIV ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Prayer bible verses Pray without ceasing," 1 Thessalonians 5:17 "Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." [Mark 11:24] "Evening and morning and at noon I utter my complaint and moan, and he hears my voice." [Psalm 55:17] "Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near;" [Isaiah 55:6] "But I, O Lord, cry to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you." [Psalm 88:13] "But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you." Matthew 6:6] 7"Praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints," [Ephesians 6:18] "Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words." [Romans 8:26] "Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working." [James 5:16] "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." [Philippians 4:6] "Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have given me relief when I was in distress. Be gracious to me and hear my prayer!" [Psalm 4:1] "Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord." [James 5:14] "If anyone sees his brother committing a sin not leading to death, he shall ask, and God will give him life--to those who commit sins that do not lead to death. There is sin that leads to death; I do not say that one should pray for that." [1 John 5:16] "Pray for us, for we are sure that we have a clear conscience, desiring to act honorably in all things." [Hebrews 13:18] "I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarreling;" [1 Timothy 2:8] "Now Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.”" [Luke 11:1] "Brothers, pray for us." [1 Thessalonians 5:28] "In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence." [Hebrews 5:7] "And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him." [1 John 5:14-15] "The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth." [Psalm 145:18]