#j brewer

[metalhead-brainrot]

[Album of the day] Various Artists - HDK 151 † Hell Night

Milan, ITA // 2023 // Heimat Der Katastrophe (HDK)

[Genres] dungeon synth, synth rock, prog rock, doom metal

[Themes] Hell's generals have escaped onto the material plane and you're a biker who has to track them down and drag them back, one by one

[FFO] indie RPGs, liturgical metal, Lingua Ignota

[Thoughts] This is the first album I've picked from the label HDK, an independent group of synth-loving Italians. Quoth their Bandcamp page: "DIY label focused on ambient punk, minimal-synth, dungeon-drone, wartime music and post-nuclear wave. Managed by a creative punx collective from Milano city."

As a fan of dungeon synth, I think HDK is grand. Most of their releases can be split into about three categories:

Old-school, fantasy dungeon synth (e.g. Kobold, Gnoll). Great music for classic TTRPGs. If you purchase the cassette release, you'll typically get a mini dungeon map and a scenario for any old-school RPG.

Cinematic synth music in the Italian tradition. Think Claudio Simonetti's Goblin, films like The Long Good Friday and Tenebre, bands like Zombi. Check out TEETH OF GLASS and A. RALLA.

Cold-War synth/signalwave, typically with a focus on the atomic era (i.e. sovietwave).* Conceptually interesting and a little underrated. I'd recommend RNLT and TSAR-BOMB.

Other frequent features in the HDK catalogue are proggy synth rock (e.g. POLONIUS), space rock (e.g. LOGIC GATE), and synthwave (e.g. MAX ROGUISH). HDK also has several official soundtracks to indie RPGs, most famously GNOLL's soundtrack to MÖRK BORG and CASIOTOMB's soundtrack to ALTNYC88.

Today's album is an official soundtrack to the indie RPG of the same name, Hell Night by Gavriel Quiroga (link to the DriveThru RPG page below). I haven't played the game,** but I have listened to this soundtrack about a dozen times. I love it. It's a compilation album but feels very proggy; all the tracks are from different artists and different musical styles, but they fit together really well.

Give the album a listen, try out the game, and check out HDK's other releases. I subscribed to their label on Bandcamp a while back, and I haven't regretted it.

o()xxxx[:::::::::::::::::> o()xxxx[:::::::::::::::::> o()xxxx[:::::::::::::::::>

* These tend to remind me of the menu screen for CoD: Black Ops.

** But I would like to, it looks like a lot of fun.

o()xxxx[:::::::::::::::::> o()xxxx[:::::::::::::::::> o()xxxx[:::::::::::::::::>

[From the band/label]

"As these last words were spoken, an explosion of blinding white light filled the black palace, cowing even the grim death lords. The angelic messenger was gone, the message delivered, and outrage soon broke among the ranks of the defiled, cacophony of blasphemy and cursing that announced the arrival of dusk and the beginning of a... HELL NIGHT".

Here is the official soundtrack of the Role-Playing Game HELL NIGHT, by the author Gavriel Quiroga that you may have already known for NEUROCITY and WARPLAND. For now only in digital, the cassette will be available later! Info about Hell Night: * www.exaltedfuneral.com/products/hell-night-pdf * www.kickstarter.com/projects/gavrielquiroga/hell-night * www.drivethrurpg.com/product/399162/HELL-NIGHT

[downthetubes]

“Magic: The Gathering – Doctor Who” lands in October

Get set for some time wimey card play with Magic: The Gathering – Doctor Who

[astudyintheburningofhearts]

This won't be my last post about pride month, because it's an entire ass month, so yeah. Anyway. Happy pride to all my ships:

Zarry

Ari and Dante

Johnlock

Ineffable Husbands

David and Patrick

Alex and Henry

Narlie

Drarry

Merthur

[tenth-sentence]

Brewer found the idea ghastly, but he thought the attitude of the women significant.

"In the Name of Eugenics: Genetics and the Uses of Human Heredity" - Daniel J. Kevles

[whats-in-a-sentence]

In Eugenics and Politics, a 1937 pamphlet published by the Society, he observed that the aims of eutelegenesis were not merely compatible with socialism: "They are socialism, biological socialism. . . . They involve nothing less than a socialization of the germ plasm, the establishment of the right of every individual that is born to the inheritance of the finest hereditary endowment that anywhere exists."

"In the Name of Eugenics: Genetics and the Uses of Human Heredity" - Daniel J. Kevles

[allthevoicesx]

know what i love about jae (my taliesin jaffe oc)? he's a firefighter. and i bet you anything, no one he doesn't talk to outside the house knows that he is this goth night angel and it makes me so amused to know that only like... caleb (my liam o'brien oc / emt) knows. because the first time jae shows up in his normal clothes, the reactions will be hilarious.

[whitehavenrp]

[rockpaperscissuhs]

Band of Brothers Birthdays

January

1 John S. Zielinski Jr. (b. 1925)

21 Richard D. “Dick” Winters (b. 1918)

26 Herbert M. Sobel (b. 1912)

30 Clifford Carwood "Lip" Lipton (b. 1920)

31 Warren H. “Skip” Muck (b. 1922) & Robert B. Brewer (b. 1924)

February

8 Clarence R. Hester (b. 1916)

18 Thomas A. Peacock (b. 1920)

23 Lester A. “Les” Hashey (b. 1925)

March

1 Charles E. “Chuck” Grant (b. 1922)

2 Colonel Robert L. “Bob” Strayer (b. 1910)

4 Wayne “Skinny” Sisk (b. 1922)

10 Frank J. Perconte (b. 1917)

13 Darrell C. “Shifty” Powers (b. 1923)

14 Joseph J. “Joe” Toye (b. 1919)

24 John D. “Cowboy” Halls (b. 1922)

26 George Lavenson (b. 1917) & George H. Smith Jr. (1922)

27 Gerald J. Loraine (b. 1913)

April

3 Colonel Robert F. “Bob” Sink (b. 1905) & Patrick S. “Patty” O’Keefe (b. 1926)

5 John T. “Johnny” Julian (b. 1924)

10 Renée B. E. Lemaire (b. 1914)

11 James W. Miller (b. 1924)

15 Walter S. “Smokey” Gordon Jr. (b. 1920)

20 Ronald C. “Sparky” Speirs (b. 1920)

23 Alton M. More (b. 1920)

27 Earl E. “One Lung” McClung (b. 1923) & Henry S. “Hank” Jones Jr. (b. 1924)

28 William J. “Wild Bill” Guarnere (b. 1923)

May

12 John W. “Johnny” Martin (b. 1922)

16 Edward J. “Babe” Heffron (b. 1923)

17 Joseph D. “Joe” Liebgott (b. 1915)

19 Norman S. Dike Jr. (b. 1918) & Cleveland O. Petty (b. 1924)

25 Albert L. "Al" Mampre (b. 1922)

June

2 David K. "Web" Webster (b. 1922)

6 Augusta M. Chiwy ("Anna") (b. 1921)

13 Edward D. Shames (b. 1922)

17 George Luz (b. 1921)

18 Roy W. Cobb (b. 1914)

23 Frederick T. “Moose” Heyliger (b. 1916)

25 Albert Blithe (b. 1923)

28 Donald B. "Hoob" Hoobler (b. 1922)

July

2 Gen. Anthony C. "Nuts" McAuliffe (b. 1898)

7 Francis J. “Frank” Mellet (b. 1920)

8 Thomas Meehan III (b. 1921)

9 John A. Janovec (b. 1925)

10 Robert E. “Popeye” Wynn (b. 1921)

16 William S. Evans (b. 1910)

20 James H. “Moe” Alley Jr. (b. 1922)

23 Burton P. “Pat” Christenson (b. 1922)

29 Eugene E. Jackson (b. 1922)

31 Donald G. "Don" Malarkey (b. 1921)

August

3 Edward J. “Ed” Tipper (b. 1921)

10 Allen E. Vest (b. 1924)

15 Kenneth J. Webb (b. 1920)

18 Jack E. Foley (b. 1922)

26 Floyd M. “Tab” Talbert (b. 1923) & General Maxwell D. Taylor (b. 1901)

29 Joseph A. Lesniewski (b. 1920)

31 Alex M. Penkala Jr. (b. 1924)

September

3 William H. Dukeman Jr. (b. 1921)

11 Harold D. Webb (b. 1925)

12 Major Oliver M. Horton (b. 1912)

27 Harry F. Welsh (b. 1918)

30 Lewis “Nix” Nixon III (b. 1918)

October

5 Joseph “Joe” Ramirez (b. 1921) & Ralph F. “Doc” Spina (b. 1919) & Terrence C. "Salty" Harris (b. 1920)

6 Leo D. Boyle (b. 1913)

10 William F. “Bill” Kiehn (b. 1921)

15 Antonio C. “Tony” Garcia (b. 1924)

17 Eugene G. "Doc" Roe (b. 1922)

21 Lt. Cl. David T. Dobie (b. 1912)

28 Herbert J. Suerth Jr. (b. 1924)

31 Robert "Bob" van Klinken (b. 1919)

November

11 Myron N. “Mike” Ranney (b. 1922)

20 Denver “Bull” Randleman (b. 1920)

December

12 John “Jack” McGrath (b. 1919)

31 Lynn D. “Buck” Compton (b. 1921)

Unknown Date

Joseph P. Domingus

Richard J. Hughes (b. 1925)

Maj. Louis Kent

Father John Mahoney

George C. Rice

SOURCES

Military History Fandom Wiki

Band of Brothers Fandom Wiki

Traces of War

Find a Grave

[todaysdocument]

Card of Thanks from Confederate Prisoners of War Thanking Residents for Christmas Gifts

Record Group 393: Records of U.S. Army Continental CommandsSeries: Letters Received

[handwritten]

Card of Thanks

In consequence of a Donation given unto us

prisoners confined in [illegible] prison by the citizens

of St. Louis Dec. 25, 1864, we the prisoners of said

prison Do this 26th Dec 1864, Think that it is

our duty as a grateful people to hold a meeting

for the purpose of showing our gratitude unto the

Donors, and all those that have used their efforts

in distributing the same. On motion of J. C. Couzins

Mr. T. M. Northcutt was called to the chair. The

chairman was requested to state the object of the

meeting which was made known by a few

brief remarks. On motion of Mr. T. H. Beckett,

Mr. John C. F[illegible] was appointed Secretary, on motion

of J. E. E[illegible] a committee of 20 was appointed

to draft resolutions expressive of the sense of the

[illegible]ing. Thereupon the Chair appointed the following

named persons: J. C. Couzins, D Howe, T. H.

Beckett, Dr. John Hart, John Moffitt, J. Hoggs, David

Hampton, R. E. Wild, John Lowry, O. R. Horn, [Y?]. J.

Wright, [S. J.?] McLain, John Hall, J. M. L[illegible],

M. M. Harrington, George [Bobhill?], John Brewer,

R. G. [Mercer?], W. H. L[illeible]berry, Frank Dodd.

The Committee made following Report:

Whereas we the Committee in behalf of the Prisoners

of Gratiot would Respectfully Report as follows.

That having been the recipient of a most magnificent

Christmas Dinner, Donated to us by the citizens

of St. Louis. Therefore Be it Resolved 1st That we tender

our thanks unto the Donors of this Christmas

repast of which we the prisoners of Gratiot have

been the Recipients.

2nd Resolved! That we also tender Our sincere

thanks unto Maj Genl Dodge Commanding

the Dept of the Mo. Col W. C. Davis Provost Mar

Genl of the same and Lieut Col Hendricks

Inspector Genl and Superintendent of Military

prisons for permitting us to be the recipient

of this most magnificent repast.

3rd Resolved! That we return respectfully our kindest

regards unto Capt Allen and all of his

subordinate officers for the amble facilites which

were afforded us in enjoying this with luxury.

4th Resolved! That we return our most sincere and

heartfelt thanks to the Sisters of Charity and

Mercy for their uniform kindness and generosity

toward the prisoners of Gratiot, And more especially

for their liberal exertions in distributing

the same unto us on the day above named.

5th Resolved! That the City papers be requested

to publish the forgoing preamble and resolutions.

On motion the meeting adjourned.

S. M. Northcutt

Chairman

John C. F[illegible]

Sec

[whencyclopedia]

The kings of the First Dynasty of Egypt (c. 3150 - c. 2890 BCE) all worked toward the same ends: increasing trade, expansion of the kingdom through military campaigns, engaging in building projects (such as monuments, tombs, and temples), and securing central rule of the country. They ruled from the city of Thinis, near Abydos, and from Memphis. The first king, according to Manetho's chronology, was Menes who has come to be identified with the pharaoh once thought to be his successor, Narmer. Narmer united the regions of Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt under central rule initially at Thinis before then building a palace at Memphis and shifting the seat of government to that city. Historian Margaret Bunson writes: The 1st Dynasty, begun at Memphis by Menes, was marked by significant cultural achievements. He cemented his claims to the throne and by instituting, or reinforcing, the previous modes of governmental and religious traditions that would become unique aspects of Egypt's heritage. Papyrus, writing, and a calendar were in use, and linear measurements, mathematics, and astronomy were practiced. A census, tax assessments, the reestablishment of boundaries after the yearly Nile inundations, and the development of new astronomical instruments moved the nation to new heights (77). Narmer's queen, Neithhotep, may have been the first female ruler in Egypt after his death. The kings who followed Narmer all continued his policies. The greatest of these was Den (c. 2990 BCE) who is the first monarch depicted wearing the crown of Upper and Lower Egypt, indicating his dominance over the whole region. Den's mother was Merneith who may have ruled as regent when he was young or may have reigned over Egypt as Neithhotep possibly did earlier. Military campaigns were launched against Nubia, Libya, and Sinai during the First Dynasty which resulted in greater wealth and expanded territory for Egypt and those borderlands not firmly defended were annexed. The kings of the First Dynasty were, for the most part, very effective rulers. Only Anedjib and Semerkhet are recorded as having troubled reigns. Under the rule of the pharaohs, Egypt grew from a largely agrarian culture to an increasingly urbanized state. The Egyptians seem to have been careful, however, to avoid the pitfalls of urbanization which characterized Mesopotamian cities such as overpopulation and overuse of land and water resources. The following list of First Dynasty kings is based on Manetho's chronology, the Turin King List, and archaeological evidence as given in the scholarly work Ancient Egypt: Foundations of a Civilization by Douglas J. Brewer. The dates of the reigns are approximate. Each pharaoh built upon what had been established by their predecessor and worked to preserve the principle of ma'at (harmony) in the land. Owing to their unity of vision, and a lack of written records, it is difficult to precisely date their reigns. Exact dating is further complicated by a new model of reading ancient inscriptions (such as the Narmer Palette) symbolically rather than literally. Whereas, in the early 20th century CE, a piece like the Narmer Palette was read as history, it is now interpreted as representing cultural values of the period. While there is certainly some logic and method to this new approach, it makes precise dating nearly impossible. Narmer (also known as Menes, c. 3150 BCE) Unified Upper and Lower Egypt and established a central government at Thinis (possibly his home city though he is also associated with Hierakonpolis) which then moved to Abydos and then Memphis. He married the princess Neithhotep of Naqada to solidify his rule and ally himself with Naqada's ruling house. Religious practices were developed and large building projects were initiated. Narmer also most likely led military expeditions to put down rebellions in Lower Egypt and to expand the territories into Nubia and Canaan. After his death, it is possible that Neithhotep reigned under her own authority. If so, she would be the first female ruler of Egypt and among the first in history, pre-dating early regents such as Sammu-Ramat of Assyria. Hor-Aha (c. 3100 - 3050 BCE; Greek name: Athotis) was most likely the son of Narmer and Neithhotep (though he has been associated with Menes/Narmer himself). He continued his father's policies of military campaigns in Nubia but seems to have neglected Canaan. Archaeological evidence from his time indicates he was primarily interested in religious rites and building the type of tomb known as a Mastaba (Arabic for "bench") which was a precursor to the pyramids. The necropolis of Memphis dates to his reign. Djer (c. 3050 - 3000 BCE; Greek name: Uenephes), probably the son of Hor-Aha, concerned himself largely with building palaces and military expansion. He extended his rule through military campaigns in Nubia and Canaan and used the resources gained in his building projects. Trade and industry grew under his reign. Djet (c. 3000 - 2990 BCE; Greek name: Usaphais) was probably the son of Djer, but nothing is known of his reign. He was buried at Abydos. He was succeeded by his wife, Queen Merneith. Merneith (c. 2990 BCE) was the wife of Djet and mother of his successor Den. There is no doubt she ruled as regent when Den was still a child but may have ruled on her own and by her own authority. Manetho does not mention her in his chronology but artifacts found in her tomb at Abydos indicate she was queen of Egypt. Her influence seems to have continued into her son's reign so, even if she did not rule in her own right, she certainly exercised power over the throne. Den (c. 2990 - 2940 BCE; Greek name: Kenkenes) was the son of Djet and Merneith. He is the first king depicted wearing the crown of both Upper and Lower Egypt. He ruled Egypt for 50 years (though part of that reign could have been under Merneith) and enlarged the country through military conquests in Sinai. Temple complexes and elaborate tombs were built under his reign and trade flourished. The Cult of Apis (also known as Hapi), the intermediary bull-deity between humans and gods, was introduced during his reign. He is considered the greatest king of the First Dynasty. Anedjib (c. 2940 - 2930 BCE; Greek name: Miebidos) was possibly Den's son but most likely his son-in-law. His reign was characterized by rebellion and little else is known of him. Semerkhet (c. 2930 - 2920 BCE; Greek name: Semempses) was considered a usurper by archaeologists and scholars for many years based upon his alleged desecration of Anedjib's name on various artifacts. This theory has been discredited with the discovery of the Cairo Stone which records his legitimate reign and his tomb. He seems to have had as difficult a time as Anedjib in controlling his kingdom Qa'a (c. 2920 - 2890 BCE; Greek name: Beieneches) was the last ruler of the First Dynasty. Very little is known about his reign except that it was very prosperous and lasted between 26 and 34 years. He was a relative of Semerkhet, probably his son. Either he had no children of his own or his sons fought over the throne since, after his death, war broke out for succession between a prince named Sneferka and another named Horus Bird. Their conflict was resolved by another prince known as Hotepsekhemwy - who either defeated them or reconciled them or both - and who then went on to found the Second Dynasty.

[margridarnauds]

Examining a medieval, medievalist, or neomedieval text through a postcolonial lens can be tricky, as postcolonial critics, especially foundational ones such as Edward Said, tend to believe that imperialism is a post-medieval construct and thus no pre-modern history or text can be colonial or postcolonial. However, medieval scholars have argued, at length, that imperialism and colonialism are not restricted to the modern era just because the concept was not defined and explored until the eighteenth century. Barbara Fuchs and David J. Baker argue that “the past is not ‘pre-colonial’ but is instead marked by multiple, historically specific temporalities that preceded modernity and came to be integral to colonialism as we usually think of it.” Not only did imperialism, colonialism, and postcolonialism exist in the Middle Ages, but moreover, the Middle Ages is where much of the foundation for imperialist ideas in the modern era was laid, and the Middle Ages are often used to create nationalist identities that help to justify imperialism and colonialism.

Carroll, Shiloh. Medievalism in a Song of Ice and Fire and Game of Thrones, Boydell & Brewer, Limited, 2018. ProQuest Ebook Central,

[usafphantom2]

A 'stretch' B-52 passing behind the Control Tower at #RAFFairford on May 29th [USAF pic J Brewer] #B52

@Saint1mil via X

[cuffmeinblack]

Because you're mine

Ominis Gaunt x Sebastian Sallow / Ominis Gaunt x Garreth Weasley

Tags: explicit | smut | love rivalry | jealousy | possessiveness | blowjobs | cumshot

3.3k words

Summary: Sebastian is alarmed by Garreth's sudden interest in Ominis and decides to remind him who he belongs to.

A/n: Okay you know I wrote that lovely wholesome Garrinis fic. Well I rewrote the whole first chapter and turned it into Sebinis smut. Erm. Enjoy. I'm so sorry, Garreth!

Ominis had noticed his change in fortunes during Potions—the ingredients he found arranged for him, the way his concoctions would mysteriously settle to a simmer after nearly boiling over, and his improving practical grades which he couldn't attribute to any sort of improvement in his ability. He thought that Sebastian must be helping him, finally growing tired of Ominis' stubborn refusal to ask for, or accept, his assistance. He didn't want to press the subject, but it irked Ominis that Sebastian would subvert his wishes, even if it ultimately benefitted him.

So it came as a surprise that Ominis' performance in Potions was particularly bad this week, and he wondered if Sebastian was distracted, or had finally decided to withdraw his help, realising that Ominis would neither ask for it or thank him directly.

"Sebastian," Ominis muttered across the table.

"Mmmm?"

"Are you angry with me?"

"What? Why would I be angry with you?" Sebastian asked.

"I've noticed you're not assisting me as much this week, my Wiggenweld potion is utter rubbish. Wish I could just replace it with one from J. Pippin's…," Ominis sighed.

"What are you talking about, Ominis?"

Ominis simply frowned and waited for Sebastian's brain to catch up. When the silence stretched on, he finally elaborated.

"I notice the little things you do to help, you know," Ominis explained.

"I don't…I mean I would, but you won't let me."

Ominis wasn't sure how to process his answer—had he imagined the whole thing, or was Sebastian lying to avoid Ominis' annoyance? He shook his head and lapsed into silence as he received another poor grade from Sharp, who appeared to be regretting his recent praise. Ominis mulled over the situation on the way to dinner after their lesson ended—what was different this week? The only difference he could think of was the absence of resident experimental potion brewer Garreth Weasley. The Gryffindor was a talented potions student but often spent his time in and out of lessons thinking up increasingly elaborate concoctions to force on unsuspecting first years in the name of science. Ominis picked at his food as he turned the thoughts over until Sebastian nudged him hard in the arm, causing him to wince.

"What's wrong with you?" Sebastian asked, his voice low.

"Just thinking about something," Ominis muttered.

"Obviously, what?"

"I've noticed things in our Potions classes, things I can't really explain."

"Does this have to do with Sharp's comment earlier?" Sebastian asked.

"Yes. I thought you were helping me because I noticed ingredients appearing near me whenever I needed them…"

"Are you sure? Maybe you'd just missed them on the desk before."

"No, I'd missed some of them in the store cupboard. And sometimes my mixture will be on the brink of boiling over and the flame will right itself before I even have a chance to react."

"Huh," Sebastian said, clearly unbelieving.

"You think I'm imagining it don't you? But this week my performance has been awful, and I can't understand what's changed."

"Maybe you're just tired, Ominis," Sebastian muttered.

"Maybe."

-

The following week they were brewing Edurus potion, Ominis was reading the recipe with his wand pointed at the page and privately hoping that his good luck would return soon, lest he end up with another poor grade.

"What are you up to, Weasley?" Sebastian called out next to him.

Ominis listened as Garreth muttered a reply behind him.

"What? Nothing…just the usual…don't tell Sharp."

"You know what I mean, I saw you point your wand over here," Sebastian said.

"No I didn't, what are you talking about?" Garreth spluttered.

Ominis frowned at the exchange, waiting for Garreth's explanation but it never came, and Sebastian seemed to decide he'd been mistaken as he once again fell silent next to him, but the coincidence didn't sit right with Ominis. He couldn't fathom the reason for his interference with his potion brewing, but he was determined to find it out.

Ominis found Garreth outside of the Gryffindor common room before breakfast the following day, as he leaned against the wall next to the portrait of the Fat Lady, who kept accusing him of spying on her house. Garreth stepped out of the portrait hole and thankfully spotted Ominis.

"Ominis, are you…okay?" he said as he approached.

"Ah, Garreth. May I have a word?" Ominis asked.

"Oh, yes alright. How can I help?"

"Have you been tampering with my cauldron in potions?" Ominis said, crossing his arms.

"What? No! Not tampering. I just…wanted to help," Garreth muttered in reply.

So Ominis hadn't imagined it, after all. The confusion made way for anger as he tried to control his temper.

"Fiddling with my work without my permission is called tampering, Weasley."

"I'm sorry, I just noticed Sallow wasn't helping you and you never ask…"

"There's a reason I don't ask. I'm quite capable of making my own mistakes and owning them."

"Right, of course. I'll stop, sorry."

Ominis turned to leave but stopped himself, his curiosity getting the better of him.

"Why?" he asked.

"What?"

"Why are you helping me?"

Garreth sighed and shuffled his feet, moving closer to Ominis and lowering his voice.

"I like you," he whispered.

"You like me?" Ominis replied with a frown.

"Yes. You know."

"Oh. Oh." Ominis' face flushed as the meaning dawned on him.

"Sorry, I know you don't really talk to me much. But you're…very attractive."

"I wouldn't know," Ominis said, trying to fight the urge to run away.

"Surely you've been told," Garreth whispered.

"Sebastian doesn't make a habit of telling me how handsome I look funnily enough," Ominis drawled.

"Well, you are."

"Thank you. Erm, I'll talk to you later, then," Ominis said.

He turned once again to leave the corridor but more words were tumbling out of his mouth.

"Garreth?"

"Yes?"

"Will you continue to help me?"

"Only if you want me to."

"I would," Ominis said, turning to leave.

He smiled to himself as he walked back to his own common room, feeling slightly giddy—he'd been angry about the interference but after hearing the reason why, it suddenly made a lot more sense. Ominis wasn't used to being the object of anyone's desires, or at least not knowingly, and whilst he couldn't say the feeling was immediately reciprocated it was gratifying to be made aware of the attraction, and Ominis was curious to find out more.

-

Two days later they had their next Potions lesson, and Garreth, true to his word, immediately put his bag down next to Ominis and started setting up his cauldron.

"Hello, lads. Looking forward to brewing this Thunderbrew potion? Tricky, but I think I have a knack for it," he said brightly.

"Weasley, what are you doing here?" Sebastian asked beside him, straight to the point.

"Garreth has offered to assist me, Sebastian," Ominis said calmly.

"I can help you, Ominis," Sebastian said quietly.

"Well, Garreth offered and frankly he's better at potions than you," Ominis teased with a smirk.

"Fine," Sebastian muttered, returning to his work.

"I'll grab us all some ingredients," Garreth said brightly, brushing past Ominis' shoulder as he retreated to the store room.

"Do you really want Weasley helping you? He's insufferable," Sebastian whispered.

"Why does he irk you so, Sebastian? I've always found him agreeable enough."

"He's so desperate," he muttered, pulling away from Ominis as Garreth's footsteps approached.

Garreth returned with the shrivelfigs, bottles of stench of the dead and leech juice and divvied up the supplies between the three of them. The lesson passed with some idle chat amongst Sebastian's sarcastic remarks as Garreth helped Ominis where he needed it. He didn't need a lot of assistance, but was grateful when Garreth had stepped in to describe the colour of his concoction, Ominis then deducing correctly that he needed to add more shrivelfig—it wasn't an overbearing or coddling kind of help, and Ominis couldn't help but smile at Garreth's kindness.

"Thank you, Garreth," Ominis said at the end of the lesson.

Garreth cleared his throat awkwardly, muttering his thanks.

"Will you walk with me?" Ominis asked as they left the classroom.

"Yes," Garreth responded rather quickly.

Sebastian had already left ahead of them in a huff, and Ominis felt for Garreth's arm, making him flinch slightly as he placed a hand on his bicep.

"Where do you want to walk to?" Garreth asked quietly.

"I don't mind, somewhere quiet," Ominis responded.

Garreth led Ominis outside to the grassy area outside of the Herbology greenhouses—it was a pleasant day, but most students would still be in their lessons, and Garreth and Ominis had a free period. The pair walked slowly as they talked about their studies on the way to the greenhouses as Garreth enthusiastically relayed his love for Ominis' most despised subject, but Ominis found the passion in his voice to be endearing even if the subject matter left a lot to be desired.

Garreth led Ominis to behind an old oak tree behind the path, amongst the grass and flower borders, and stopped walking, turning towards him.

"Well, here we are. I thought it would be nice to be outside in the sun," Garreth said.

"I agree, it's a lovely day," Ominis nodded.

Ominis removed his hand from Garreth's arm and sat carefully in the grass, crossing his legs and placing his hands in his lap as Garreth sat himself next to him, facing away from the tree, their knees grazing. Ominis could practically feel the nerves radiating from him and he repressed a smile at the slightly absurd thought of him having such an effect on anyone.

"Can I ask a favour?" Ominis asked.

"Yes, of course, what is it?" Garreth responded.

"Can I…map your face?" Ominis said.

A silence passed between them and Ominis held up his hand in answer.

"Oh, you want to…yes, okay," Garreth said.

"Thank you, I've only bothered to do this with Sebastian so I'm afraid he's my only basis for comparison."

"Ah, then you might be disappointed."

Ominis smiled in reply and shuffled himself to face him, reaching out a hand slowly towards his face. Garreth stayed as still as he could as Ominis' hand found him, gently tracing his cheek, up to his temple. His thumb ran down between his eyebrows, over his nose and down towards his mouth as Ominis felt a stirring in his gut at Garreth's warm, heavy breaths against his skin. Ominis brushed his soft lips and ran his fingers along his jaw, finally pulling his hand away, satisfied with the mental image he had conjured.

"Thank you, that helps," Ominis said with a smile. "And no, I'm not disappointed."

Garreth laughed nervously and Ominis' heart fluttered slightly at the sound. He sensed Garreth's trepidation and willed himself to reach out to place his hand on his knee but overshot and gripped his thigh. Ominis felt his face burning as Garreth flinched and inhaled sharply, readying himself to pull away before Garreth caught his wrist in his hand still against his leg. Ominis smiled and once again felt Garreth's breath against his skin, this time on his mouth as he leaned forward to meet him in a kiss, Ominis' heart now ready to burst from his chest. The kiss was quick and unsure, but he wanted more—Ominis reached out to snake a hand around Garreth's neck and pulled him toward him again.

Their lips met and lingered, softly brushing together in timid exploration until Garreth's tongue ran along his lower lip, making Ominis dig his fingers into his thigh before reciprocating with his own tongue. Merlin, this felt good. The kiss deepened, Garreth now running his hands through Ominis' hair and tugging as they made quietly appreciative noises into each other's mouths. Ominis was thoroughly enjoying himself, getting lost in his soft, wet lips, his hands exploring the muscular thighs and long hair in front of him, so much so that his trousers were now uncomfortably tight. He shuffled closer towards Garreth so that he was practically sitting in his lap, his crossed legs overlapping him as Garreth moaned softly and Ominis pulled away with a sly smile.

"Definitely not disappointed," Ominis said truthfully.

-

Ominis returned to the common room shortly after his heated exchange of tongues with Garreth, feeling exhilarated, albeit slightly frustrated, to meet the irritated questioning of Sebastian before he had barely sat down.

"Where have you been?"

"I went for a walk with Garreth," Ominis said, settling into the plush sofa next to Sebastian.

"Oh, it's Garreth now is it? What did he want?"

"We talked, I thanked him for his assistance, and then he kissed me," Ominis replied with a smile.

A stunned silence stretched between them as Sebastian shuffled on the cushion to face Ominis.

"What?" Sebastian asked quietly.

"Mmm it was quite enjoyable. Is Garreth considered attractive? He seems to have nice lips, a good jaw, and his hair is very soft," Ominis recalled, his thoughts returning to Garreth's tongue flicking over his lips.

"Seriously?" Sebastian asked incredulously.

"And his voice is rather nice, too."

"You think his voice is nice," Sebastian repeated blankly.

Ominis nodded and smirked at Sebastian's reaction—truth be told, he'd only ever been enticed by one other voice, but it was currently scolding him rather than whispering sweet nothings in his ear. Ominis couldn't help but tease Sebastian, knowing how much it bothered him to see him interested in Garreth for whatever reason.

"So what, you're going to fuck Weasley now because he showed you a bit of attention?"

Ominis frowned at the agressive tone in his voice.

"Why are you so bothered, Sebastian?"

"Because it's him. Because…," Sebastian started but didn't finish, because his lips were otherwise occupied as they found Ominis' mouth.

Ominis hadn't been expecting it, or the hand that held his head in place, or the tongue that teased at his lips. He hadn't been expecting it but he'd wanted it, in the deepest, darkest depths of his mind lived the fantasies of frantic fumblings with his best friend, the longing urges to feel his mouth on his, and the memories of days spent pleasuring himself to the sound of his voice saying the most filthy things he could imagine. Ominis hadn't considered that Sebastian might want him back, and whether it was out of pure jealousy and hatred for Garreth or not, he didn't care much in that moment as his tongue explored Sebastian's mouth with quiet moans that were entirely inappropriate for the common room. Ominis pulled away, with great difficulty against Sebastian's steadying hand against the back of his head.

"Let's go upstairs," Sebastian said, pulling his wrist to guide him to the dormitory.

Ominis' heart pounded in his chest as they entered the room and Sebastian wasted no time in resuming their kiss, his fingers fumbling the clasp on Ominis' robe and pushing it roughly off his shoulders to the floor. He took the suggestion and did the same to Sebastian, ridding him of his numerous layers until they stood bare-chested in front of each other. Ominis ran his hands over his warm chest, the thick hair curling around his fingers as Sebastian manoeuvred them towards the bed, the back of Ominis' legs hitting the mattress and causing him to fall backwards onto it as Sebastian clambered on top of him, straddling his hips.

Ominis' cock strained uncomfortably against his waistband as his hands wandered up Sebastian's thighs to find his trouser buttons, brushing his bulge and causing him to groan with anticipation. Ominis felt dizzy as he undid Sebastian's trousers, pulling them roughly down to release his erection, taking it in his hand with a gasp at the thickness of his shaft—he was practically salivating at the thought as he panted underneath Sebastian's legs, stroking his cock to the sound of his friend's shuddering moans.

"Fuck, Ominis. Get back on the bed."

He did as he was told, shuffling back on the mattress as Sebastian urgently tugged down Ominis' trousers leaving him completely exposed until his cock was enveloped by Sebastian's hot, wet mouth. Ominis let out a gutteral moan as his tongue teased his head, his hand wrapped at the base of his shaft, gripping him firmly but completely unmoving.

"Tell me you want me," Sebastian muttered, his tongue flicking lazily on the top of his head.

"I want you," he managed to whimper.

"What do you want, Ominis?"

"I…I want…please, Sebastian I want your mouth around my cock."

Ominis all but shouted as Sebastian took him fully in his mouth, the suction unbearably pleasurable as his hand worked the bottom of his shaft that his mouth couldn't reach. His hand gripped the bedsheets underneath him and the other entangled itself in Sebastian's hair as his head bobbed up and down rhythmically, bringing Ominis closer to the edge. He was already so close, and Sebastian could sense the increasingly erratic breathing and twitching muscles and he pulled his mouth away with a pop as the suction released his head.

"He could never make you moan like that," Sebastian said in between kisses to his thighs. "Time to return the favour before I let you finish."

Ominis sat up shakily, fighting the temptation to take himself in his hand and find his release, but he knew Sebastian wouldn't allow it, so instead he groped in front of him to find Sebastian sitting with his legs spread, waiting patiently for Ominis to find his way. His fingers skimmed his tight balls eliciting a low hum from Sebastian's throat and Ominis returned to them, fondling his sack as he gripped his thick shaft and ran his tongue over his head, slick with salty precum. Ominis moaned at the taste, hungry for more as he took Sebastian's cock in his mouth, the girth filling to the sides of his hollow cheeks easily as he sucked him eagerly.

"Why would you want Weasley when you could have been sucking my cock all this time?" Sebastian breathed.

Ominis answered the question with a whine, not slowing his tempo as he sucked and lapped at Sebastian's cock as if he were starving for it—and he was, the years of filthy daydreams and nights of self pleasure had finally become a reality and Ominis wanted absolutely nothing more than to bring Sebastian to his climax, to know that he enjoyed this just as much as Ominis. Sebastian's fingers were tangled in his hair, tugging at him with every movement of his head, and his moans grew more and more loud and ragged as his hips bucked underneath him, causing his head to hit the back of Ominis' throat.

"Fuck, Ominis," were the last words he uttered before he pulled Ominis' mouth off of him, roughly shoving him sideways onto the bed before straddling his chest. Ominis' breath caught at the sudden movement and he heard the groaning above him and a whispered "open your mouth" before the warm cum hit his lips and his waiting tongue, sliding down his chin as he gasped and licked around his mouth.

He couldn't help the smirk that crept onto his face, completely giddy and yet still so frustrated, his own erection now painfully in need of stimulation. Thankfully, Sebastian granted him his wish and took him in his warm hand, stroking his length until he finally met his exquisite release, covering Sebastian's thighs as he held himself steady with shaking arms. He finally collapsed on the bed next to him as they both panted for air and Sebastian gently stroked his hair.

"You're mine, okay?" Sebastian sighed.

"Whatever you say," Ominis replied with a smile.

[spinus-pinus]

I have been getting into new world sparrows (family Passerellidae) and I had the urge to make a tier list....... so....... presenting my Personal Opinions on most of the new world sparrow family :D I'm sure it's entirely legible and understandable!!! /j sorry to anyone trying to zoom in and identify some of these but I had fun and that's what matters!!! and it was a fun way to familiarize myself with the genuses. and the species I didn't know!!

my top faves, in order from most to least favorite, are as follows! I tried to order them on the image but the site crashed in the process, thankfully I had already downloaded it lmao

lark sparrow, white-throated sparrow, white-crowned sparrow, black-throated sparrow, white-eared ground-sparrow, california towhee, spotted towhee, dark-eyed junco, swamp sparrow, green-tailed towhee, savannah sparrow, american tree sparrow, black-chinned sparrow, chipping sparrow, bachman's sparrow, grasshopper sparrow, and leconte's sparrow!!!

oh and I am entirely neutral towards brewer's sparrow. like I have nothing against him and I love him because he is a sparrow but I have no feelings towards him (change my mind)

all art is from birds of the world! various artists that I would credit if the art was actually more visible lmao. David Quinn and Brian Small seem to have done a number of them

[tenth-sentence]

However innocuous the techniques, he expected that eutelegenesis would be "stigmatized as immoral and not respectable".

"In the Name of Eugenics: Genetics and the Uses of Human Heredity" - Daniel J. Kevles

[whats-in-a-sentence]

Both Muller and Brewer perceived eugenic implications in the work: the fertilization of a genetically "superior" human egg by a similar sperm in a test tube, and the implantation of the zygote in a third-party female – no doubt genetically inferior, but an able nurturer of the fetus.

"In the Name of Eugenics: Genetics and the Uses of Human Heredity" - Daniel J. Kevles