#or they will thrive beyond belief

[lucy-shining-star]

I need this ‘Leave sims alone for 24 irl hours/ one sims year video’ in which player tries to make them surive not watch as fast they die/cause chaos

[ladyimaginarium]

that one scene in black lagoon where rock's confronting revy & he's goading her to keep chasing her tail & keep repeating the cycle & what makes her my favorite character if not one of my favorite female anime characters of all time & not just for her skill in guns or her swearing but she she can be shot, stabbed, abused by her father & the police, anything and she takes it all like a warrior, but treat her like a genuine person & she freaks the fuck out bc that scares her more than any knife or bullet or explosive ever could bc she doesn't know what to do or how to react to any of that & that fucking terrifies her & for the first time in her life she could feel hope when rock is there with her & that both infuriates her & terrifies her bc as lana del rey once said "hope is a dangerous thing for a woman like me to have" bc if she could feel hope, if she could step into the light, then she'd have to face everything in her life, the people she's killed, the pain she's endured & her own suffering & that is the most frightening thing she can ever imagine, hell, she can go toe to toe w/ the bloodhound of fuckin florencia aka the fuckin terminator but treat her like a genuine human being with feelings & she fucking loses it bc revy looking like she's about to burst into tears just. SCREAMS "THAT'S ALL I KNOW HOW TO DO" ..... yeah.

[torpublishinggroup]

Celebrate Pride with Tor Publishing Group!

The Water Outlaws by S. L. Huang

Mountain outlaws on the margins of society, the Bandits of Liangshan proclaim a belief in justice—for women, for the downtrodden, for progressive thinkers a corrupt Empire would imprison or destroy. They’re also murderers, thieves, smugglers, and cutthroats. Together, they could bring down an empire. 

Now available in paperback!

Somewhere Beyond the Sea by TJ Klune

The long-awaited sequel to The House in the Cerulean Sea is a story of resistance, lovingly told, about the daunting experience of fighting for the life you want to live and doing the work to keep it. Welcome back to Marsyas Island—home to six magical and purportedly dangerous children. This is Arthur’s story.

The West Passage by @jpechacek

When the Guardian of the West Passage dies in her bed, the women of Grey Tower feed her to the crows and go back to their chores. No successor is named, and no hand takes up the fallen blade, so the West Passage—the ancient byways of the beast—goes unguarded. This is a weird and delightful journey across a deliriously medieval landscape where decay thrives in abundance and giant Ladies rule a palace the size of a city. 

Blood Debts by Terry J. Benton-Walker

On the thirtieth anniversary of the largest magical massacre in New Orleans history, Clement and Cristina Trudeau mourn their father and care for their sick mother. But their mother isn’t sick, they learn: She’s cursed. Cursed by a member of the same magic council over which she used to preside. Cursed by someone who will come for Clement and Cristina next. 

Now available in paperback!

Bury Your Gays by @drchucktingle

After so many years, Misha’s big Oscar moment is here. All he has to do? Kill off the gay characters in his long-running streaming series, “for the algorithm.” Misha refuses, but that’s hardly the end, because monsters from his old horror movie days have begun to step out from the silver screen and stalk him. 

The Brides of High Hill by Nghi Vo

The Cleric Chih accompanies a young bride to her wedding to Lord Guo, the aging ruler of a crumbling estate, but amid the elaborate courtesies and extravagant banquets, they realize something haunts the shadowed halls. As the big night nears close, Chih will learn that not all monsters dwell in shadows; some hide in plain sight. 

Remedial Magic by Melissa Marr

1) An unassuming librarian falls in love with a powerful witch. 

2) Previous librarian discovers she too is a witch…

3) …and that she must attend magical community college to learn how to save her new world from annihilation. 

Swordcrossed by @fahye

Part-time con artist / full-time charming menace Luca Piere didn’t expect to get blackmailed into teaching a chronically responsible merchant Matti how to wield a sword. He also didn’t expect to find his charge so inconveniently handsome, or to get so entangled in his tale of intrigue, sabotage, and matrimony. 

It’s important to read Swordcrossed because while you’re reading gay fiction, you can also study the blade.

Celebrate Pride with more titles from Tor Publishing Group here!

[ms-demeanor]

Hi, I share your strong pro-medicine, pro-vaccines, anti-woo beliefs. I also have chronic digestive issues and insurance that won’t cover the useful specialists. The gastroenterologists I’ve encountered are helpful for making sure my insides look okay but they don’t seem to have much training around nutrition and food science. Nutritionists are unlicensed and I find them about as trustworthy as chiropractors, and I can’t get insurance to cover a registered dietician. The internet is saturated with pseudoscience junk and “miracle cures”, and in moments of desperation I’ve fallen for some of them. Luckily I haven’t been harmed by anything so far, but I don’t think they helped much either.

I was wondering if you or your followers have any resources on IBS and/or GERD that are scientifically sound and written for a general audience? Or advice for identifying when pop-sci-style “food science” articles are a scam?

I deeply regret to inform you that I was so annoyed by this exact problem that I literally went back to school to start working on getting a degree in nutrition and got two and a half years into a second bachelor's degree before realizing I wouldn't be able to get into any programs in my area that I could afford because the local state schools aren't accepting second bachelor's applicants. (Cal State Chico, I love you and you are too far away, it's not meant to be)

Nutrition information online is completely infested with woo and I am hesitant to point people toward one of the good resources I used to reference because it is politically batshit.

If you are looking at a food science article on the internet and are trying to figure out if it's a scam the big red flags to look out for are:

anything claiming to be a silver bullet; there are no silver bullets, no magical treatments, no one weird food that will fix the problem or one weird supplement that will make everything better.

Over-emphasis on a specific type of diet (diet as in "all the food that a person consumes" not as in "weight loss tool") for a general population. It's irresponsible to recommend a rigorous, restricted diet to a wide variety of people because people are so different that one diet that works for one person (say a vegan diet) might be unhealthy or difficult to manage for another person who would thrive on a different diet (low fat, low carb).

Anyone who tells you to cut out an entire food group or macronutrient is a liar who is trying to get your money. Unless it is your personal medical doctor who is saying "you need to stop eating grains" you do not need to stop eating grains and should not stop eating grains. You also do not need to stop eating fat, or eat only protein, or cut all fruit out of your diet. (caveat: there are some conditions that require a very low fiber diet, but even on that diet there are some fruits you can eat)

Beyond that, what you can do to make sure you're getting the best information possible is:

look up the author of any article you're looking at and see what else they've written; check what their qualifications are. See the people they interact with or have collaborated with. If they work heavily with people who are, say, antivax or proponents of raw milk, you should not trust their work.

If you see something that claims to treat your condition or help with nutrition, search "[subject] research study" or "[subject] scholarly research" and see what comes up. Read at least a few papers on the subject and see if there's a consensus or if there are broad disagreements. Get into the habit of looking up the impact scores of journals and researching the history of the journals.

Learn to recognize the woo keywords with your particular illness. For celiac that's "leaky gut," and any article I come across that discusses "leaky gut" gets extra scrutiny because sometimes there are legitimate reasons to describe a "leaky gut" but more often there are woo nonsense reasons. One really good way to figure out what the woo keywords for your illness are is to search "[your illness] + [woo huckster]", so "celiac + joseph mercola" or "celiac + the food babe." (those are good starting places to see what woo is popular around anything nutrition based, really; nothing those two say is trustworthy) you can also try "[your condition] + [specific type of medical woo]" with, like, "chiropractic" and "homeopathic" and "holistic" in the second box.

Be wary of positive assertions without evidence. If someone is making an affirmative statement and they aren't providing a citation, be suspicious.

Anyway. Good luck. It sucks out there.

[rainydetectiveglitter]

Astro Notes

🌞 Sun in the 1H — The Sun finds its strength here (considered a "place of visibility"). You’re meant to be seen and recognized, and your life feels aligned when you’re expressing yourself boldly. Themes of leadership and self-realization dominate your journey—this is the chart of someone destined to carve their own path.

🌙 Moon in the 5H — The Moon rejoices in the 5th house, so this placement brings a natural affinity for creativity, pleasure, and children. Your emotional state thrives in spaces of joy and self-expression, but watch out for getting lost in indulgence or romantic idealism.

🗣 Mercury in the 12H — Mercury here suggests hidden or esoteric knowledge. This is the chart of someone with insights that go beyond the material world. Your speech and thoughts may feel isolated or introspective, but you’re gifted with a knack for unveiling truths hidden in plain sight. Potential for prophecy or dream work!

💖 Venus in the 2H — A placement tied to Aphrodite’s love for material beauty. Venus here blesses you with a natural allure and ability to attract wealth or possessions. Harmony in relationships may stem from shared values or building something tangible together.

🔥 Mars in the 8H — The eighth house signifies taboos, shared resources, and mortality, making this a fiery yet transformative placement. You face challenges head-on, especially in areas others shy away from. Battles over inheritance, intimate bonds, or spiritual power may define key parts of your story.

💫 Jupiter in the 10H — A classic "kingmaker" placement. Jupiter elevates your public life, granting you charisma and the ability to inspire. Benefic fortune arrives when you pursue roles of authority or influence aligned with your principles. Jupiter in the 10th can also signify divine protection over your reputation.

⏳ Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Pallas in the 2H — A heavy emphasis on the 2nd house ties your material possessions to themes of duty (Saturn), disruption (Uranus), illusion (Neptune), and strategy (Pallas). You’re navigating the weight of what you own or value—learning to master a balance between control and letting go is crucial.

🕳 Pluto in the 12H — The 12th house governs things unseen—Pluto here is akin to Persephone's descent into the underworld. Deep, subconscious transformations may shape your life path. Spiritual growth occurs through surrender, forgiveness, and diving into your shadow self.

🌐 Chiron in the 9H — The 9th house deals with philosophy, travel, and belief systems. With Chiron here, you might struggle with your faith or find your worldview shaken by personal wounds. However, these experiences push you to share wisdom and inspire others on their own paths.

💍 Juno in the 8H — Relationships for you are not surface-level. Juno in the 8th craves deep, binding intimacy. Themes of merging and transformation play out in partnerships—this isn’t a placement for lighthearted romance. Think soul contracts over fleeting connections.

🔥 Vesta in the 1H — Vesta in the Ascendant makes you a keeper of the flame. There’s something sacred about your individuality and presence. You may dedicate much of your energy to self-discipline or perfecting your identity, often attracting those drawn to your purposeful aura.

🌀 Node in the 1H — Your destiny pulls you toward asserting independence and finding your voice. The past may tether you to partnerships or codependent tendencies, but growth lies in carving your own road.

🐍 Lilith in the 3H — The "dark goddess" in the house of communication shows a razor-sharp tongue and an unapologetically raw way of speaking. Themes of rebellion might arise in sibling relationships or education. Words become a tool of both power and seduction.

💰 Fortune in the 8H — True prosperity comes from transforming life’s challenges into opportunities. You might gain unexpected financial blessings or have a knack for finding luck in the darkest corners of life. This is an alchemist’s placement—your fortune thrives in rebirth.

[schemingdiva]

pick a pile reading - messages that you need to hear right now

Pile 1:

Cards: the world, 9 of pentacles, knight of wands, king of cups | shapeshifter oracle card

A situation that you have been praying about has finally reached its end. New financial opportunities are on their way to you dear one. Keep an eye out for incoming money or career opportunities. You are being encouraged to travel and step beyond your comfort zone. Don’t stay in the same place where you struggled, now is the time for you to leave and really challenge yourself to thrive outside of your comfort zone. It’s possible that you may be considering a new career or moving to a new city. You might be into art or traveling. You are also being encouraged to hone your skills and spend time with yourself focusing on your strengths.

extra confirmation: butterflies 🦋, dolphins, the coast, 777

Pile 2:

Cards: death, ace of pentacles, 7 of wands | mountain oracle card

You’re going through a major transformation right now! It may be hard to accept but once you let go of the past, you can get started on your glow up love! You spent a lot of time doing the hard work behind the scenes, doing shadow work and now your hard work is paying off. You may be getting a new job or raise, your life is being promoted in huge way. You may feel a bit defensive right now, but trust that the Universe/God, whomever you believe has your back. Make sure to keep up your boundaries and guard your treasures. The Universe is guiding you to stand your ground regarding this situation, continue with your beliefs and what you’re focusing on. Other people around you may disagree but ignore them, the Universe is supporting you 100% with this. What you’re doing is right for you, and you alone.

extra confirmation: 444, leo, scorpio

Pile 3:

Cards: 9 of swords, 7 of cups, death | earth mother oracles

My heart aches for you pile 3. You’re currently feeling alone, maybe even depressed. You’re in a lot of pain. You may feel so overwhelmed by life that you don’t know how to move forward. If you’re feeling this way this message is for you. You’re being encouraged to start anew, allow yourself to start over. This part of your life has ended, and no longer serves you. You’ll soon find that life is changing to your benefit. You’re entering an entirely new chapter of your life! During this transition please know that you are loved. As you go through this process it’s important that you make plans and assess what your next steps are. It’s time to be focused so you are prepared for the changes coming your way. Trust yourself and your ability to succeed.

extra confirmation: 555, holly berries, feathers

Pile 4:

Cards: 6 of pentacles, king of swords, death, 5 of wands, the hermit | winter oracle

Pile 4, it looks like you need to slow down and take some time for yourself. You’re a very generous person, and you’re often the person that people turn to for help. A lot of people may depend on you in your personal life. You should reevaluate your relationships and consider if these people are deserving of you and your generosity. At this time, you’re entering a period of rebirth. Your life is transforming for the better. This period may be a little rough, I’m seeing some challenges coming your way. The best way to navigate these challenges is by spending time alone. This may be hard, especially if you’re normally surrounded by people. Stand your ground, and focus on you. Keep an eye out for more information that may be revealed to you.

extra confirmation: snow, snakes, smoke

————————————————————————

Thank you for reading! More to come soon.

[gam3r-girli3]

WARNING: please note that there is mention of sexual content towards the end in the bonus paragraph

A/N: you can view this as a continuation of my other drabble if you want <3

(gif divider doesn't belong to me, credit to owner)

It's always amusing to watch people's reactions when Simon Riley introduces you to them as his girlfriend.

He watches the way their eyes widen and their mouths drop open. First, because of how gorgeous you are, obviously, which gives him a sense of pride. Then, their eyes fall onto the pendants around your neck, the crystal bracelets adorning your wrists, the evil eye ring you never take off, the chakra crystal bracelet that Simon had given you as a gift when he saw it in a shop and thought of you.

Observing their shock is like a drug to him. He can't get enough of it. He thrives off seeing them squirm and be unsure of what to make of her, his beautiful bird.

He knows she's different than most, he knows she's very into spirituality and crystals, tarot, astrology, etc, but he also finds it endearing and loves her for it all the more. He doesn't understand half of what she rambles about, especially when it comes to 'preparing for the different moon cycles' and 'interpreting the hidden messages in tarot cards', but he finds you beyond adorable when your eyes light up and you get all excited talking about these things.

He loves how unashamed you are of your beliefs, unapologetic and unwilling to hide from people's judgemental eyes. You don't shy away from his mates' questions or get defensive; you're more than happy to talk about the healing properties of crystals and how your birth chart affects your life. You'll even whip out your well-used but beloved tarot deck and do a reading for them.

Price and Gaz are more on the skeptic side, but Soap is fully invested in knowing his rising, moon and sun signs, as well as other things like what the next month has in store for him and if he'll pull a bonnie lass as beautiful as you (he's lucky Simon didn't take his bloody eye out for that one).

He might not say it but he's filled with pride and awe over you, and though he might not have any spiritual beliefs (like, none whatsoever) he'll happily worship the ground you walk on.

♡ BONUS:

Won't admit it to anyone but he wears the tiger's eye crystal pendant you got him under his shirt all the time, especially if he's suited up in his work gear and going off on another mission. The only time you see it is when it's keeps hitting you in the face as he fucks you into the mattress.

[esotericalchemist]

𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 - 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐃𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐚 •°. *࿐

TikTok (Matrix of Destiny) - Masterlist - YouTube (subliminals)

The 9th house, known as Dharma Bhava, represents the soul's higher purpose and connection to universal truth. It is the house of fortune, righteousness, spiritual wisdom, and divine blessings, guiding us to align with the principles of dharma—the cosmic law that upholds order, virtue, and moral integrity. Unlike the material pursuits of other houses, the 9th house reveals where we seek higher meaning and how we walk the path of truth in this life. When we explore the sign ruling this house, we uncover the unique nature of our spiritual journey—how we discover, integrate, and express wisdom in a way that shapes our destiny.

𝐀𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 𝐒𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

When Sagittarius rules the 9th house, the house of Dharma Bhava, you are called to walk the path of higher truth, righteousness, and expansive wisdom. The 9th house, which governs fortune, spiritual knowledge, and the grace of divine blessings, aligns naturally with Sagittarius, the sign ruled by Jupiter (Guru). This is where the soul embarks on a journey to seek meaning, grow beyond limitations, and embrace life as a sacred teacher. Your dharma is to explore the higher purpose of existence, both through external travels and the internal landscapes of the mind and spirit. Sagittarius here inspires you to trust that life is guided by a cosmic order, where each experience, challenge, and revelation serves as a step toward the ultimate realization of truth.

The dharma of Sagittarius in the 9th house is not confined to the limitations of structured doctrines or rigid belief systems. Instead, it thrives on freedom, expansion, and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Your purpose is to search for wisdom that liberates—not just yourself, but others as well. Whether through religion, philosophy, or the universal principles of dharma, you are destined to uplift, teach, and inspire those around you. Sagittarius, as a mutable fire sign, brings an adventurous spirit to this house, urging you to break boundaries and explore paths unknown. Long journeys, both physical and intellectual, are part of your growth, as they broaden your understanding of the interconnectedness of life. The fire of Sagittarius burns away ignorance and illuminates the way forward, encouraging you to live with truth, integrity, and enthusiasm.

The 9th house is also the house of gurus, mentors, and divine guidance, and with Sagittarius here, teachers appear as blessings in your life. Your dharma is to honor the sacred bond between the student and the teacher, understanding that wisdom flows not from ego, but from a place of humility and openness. You are meant to become a guide yourself—perhaps not through formal instruction, but through the way you live, inspire, and share your truth. True fortune flows to you when you align your actions with righteousness, live generously, and act in faith, trusting that the universe will provide exactly what is needed for your soul’s growth. By walking the path of Sagittarius, you fulfill your dharma as a seeker, a teacher, and an embodiment of the higher truths that bring liberation and purpose to life.

𝐓𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐮𝐬 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

When Capricorn rules the 9th house, the house of Dharma Bhava, your life’s purpose is deeply tied to the principles of discipline, structure, and responsibility. Capricorn, ruled by Saturn (Shani), the planet of karma and time, lends a serious, grounded, and enduring energy to the themes of fortune, higher wisdom, and spiritual truth. The 9th house, a house of expansion, finds an anchor in Capricorn, signaling that your dharma is not about fleeting inspiration but about building a steady and meaningful connection with life’s higher purpose. For you, the path of righteousness is not a grand leap of faith; it is a deliberate, step-by-step journey of endurance and commitment. Saturn demands patience and maturity, teaching you that true wisdom and blessings come only to those who walk the path of dharma with diligence and integrity.

The dharma of Capricorn in the 9th house revolves around the idea that spiritual growth and fortune are earned through karmic effort and practical living. You are called to take responsibility for your actions and align yourself with universal truths—not just through thought but through tangible deeds. Faith for you is not an abstract concept but a living reality forged through experience and challenges. The hardships you face in life are not obstacles but tools of Saturn, designed to refine you and deepen your understanding of dharma. Capricorn asks you to honor traditions and systems of wisdom that stand the test of time. You are drawn to philosophies or spiritual practices that emphasize structure, discipline, and ethical living, as these help you fulfill your higher purpose.

The blessings of the 9th house come slowly but steadily for you, as Saturn ensures that nothing arrives unearned. Long journeys—whether physical, intellectual, or spiritual—require careful planning and effort, but their rewards are lasting and profound. Teachers and mentors in your life are often figures of authority or wisdom who guide you with tough love, discipline, and practicality. Your dharma is to inspire others through your endurance and to show that true faith and righteousness are not passive pursuits. They require steadfast action, commitment to truth, and a willingness to carry the weight of your karmic duties. When you honor this path with patience and humility, Saturn opens the gates of divine blessings, bestowing wisdom, stability, and spiritual fulfillment that stand the test of time.

𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 𝐀𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

When Aquarius rules the 9th house (Dharma Bhava), your life’s purpose is centered around innovation, progress, and serving the greater good. Aquarius, ruled by Saturn (Shani) and influenced by Rahu, brings a unique, intellectual, and unconventional energy to the house of higher knowledge, spiritual growth, and fortune. Your dharma is to seek and share universal truths that transcend boundaries—be they cultural, societal, or intellectual. The 9th house represents divine blessings, teachers, and the expansion of consciousness, and Aquarius infuses this house with a vision that is forward-thinking, humanitarian, and inclusive. You are called to break free from rigid traditions and to embrace ideas, systems, and philosophies that uplift not just yourself but society as a whole.

The dharma of Aquarius in the 9th house is about understanding that progress is sacred and that your spiritual path involves contributing to the collective evolution of humanity. You are naturally drawn to unconventional philosophies, cutting-edge knowledge, and futuristic ideas that challenge outdated belief systems. Your faith is not blind—it is shaped by logic, reason, and a desire to make the world a better place. Whether through scientific thought, social reform, or humanitarian efforts, your higher purpose lies in spreading wisdom that unites people and fosters equality. Travel, learning, or spiritual exploration for you often takes on unique forms, leading you to places, people, or ideologies that inspire growth and innovation.

Saturn’s rulership here demands discipline and long-term effort, while Rahu adds a hunger to explore the unknown. Your teachers and mentors may be unconventional figures—thinkers, reformers, or visionaries—who inspire you to think beyond limitations. You are meant to live your dharma by questioning what is stagnant and contributing to what is transformative. Through service to humanity, alignment with progressive ideals, and the courage to challenge traditions that no longer serve their purpose, you fulfill the calling of Aquarius in the 9th house. Your fortune flows when you live with integrity, pursue knowledge that serves others, and embrace a dharma rooted in innovation, equality, and universal truth.

𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 𝐏𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

When Pisces rules the 9th house (Dharma Bhava), your life’s purpose is deeply connected to the themes of surrender, compassion, and spiritual transcendence. Pisces, ruled by Jupiter (Guru), embodies the boundless, mystical, and intuitive qualities of the divine, making this placement one of profound spiritual significance. The 9th house, the seat of higher truth, fortune, and divine blessings, merges with the Piscean energy of dissolution and unity, calling you to seek truths that transcend the material and connect to the infinite. Your dharma is to trust the flow of life, surrender the ego, and embrace a path of spiritual realization where boundaries between the self and the cosmos dissolve into one harmonious whole.

Pisces in the 9th house gives you a natural inclination toward mysticism, devotion, and higher spiritual pursuits. Your faith is not rigid or dogmatic; it is fluid and experiential, shaped by intuition, compassion, and a deep understanding of life’s interconnectedness. Whether through meditation, prayer, dreams, or creative expression, you are drawn to explore the subtler, unseen realms of existence. Travel—whether to distant lands, sacred places, or inward journeys of the spirit—becomes a vital part of your dharmic path, as it opens doorways to divine wisdom. Teachers and gurus in your life often appear as sources of inspiration and guidance, leading you to higher truths that expand your awareness and bring you closer to the eternal.

The dharma of Pisces in the 9th house is about embracing selflessness and compassion, allowing your life to become a vessel for divine grace. Your fortune grows when you let go of control and place trust in the divine plan, understanding that surrender is not weakness but a profound spiritual strength. You are called to act with kindness, uplift others through your wisdom, and live with a heart full of empathy and faith. By dissolving attachments to material success and ego-driven desires, you fulfill your higher purpose and receive Jupiter’s blessings of inner peace, spiritual abundance, and true liberation. Through devotion, creative exploration, and alignment with the universal spirit, you honor the dharma of Pisces in the 9th house, becoming a source of healing, wisdom, and light for the world.

𝐋𝐞𝐨 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 𝐀𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

When Aries rules the 9th house (Dharma Bhava), your life’s purpose is tied to the pursuit of truth through courage, action, and direct experience. Aries, ruled by Mars (Mangal), brings a bold, fiery, and pioneering energy to the house of higher knowledge, fortune, and spirituality. The 9th house represents your dharma, or righteous path, and with Aries here, you are called to embrace a path that requires initiative, bravery, and self-reliance. Your dharma is not one of passive acceptance or blind faith; rather, it is about actively seeking the truth, forging your own path, and discovering wisdom through action. Divine blessings flow when you act with integrity, boldly pursue higher ideals, and face life’s challenges head-on.

The Aries influence on your 9th house makes your relationship with spirituality and fortune dynamic and experiential. You are not satisfied with theories or teachings alone—you need to live and test the truth for yourself. Whether through travel, higher learning, or philosophical exploration, you approach life with a pioneering spirit and an adventurous mindset. This placement calls you to be a spiritual warrior of sorts, fighting ignorance with knowledge and apathy with enthusiasm. Aries teaches that the path of dharma is not always gentle or easy; it often requires strength, resilience, and an ability to overcome obstacles. Your fortune grows when you take decisive action, honor your truth, and align your fiery will with righteous living.

The dharma of Aries in the 9th house also emphasizes the importance of self-discovery and leadership. You are here to inspire others by showing what it means to live fearlessly and authentically. Your mentors or teachers may appear as challengers who push you toward growth, encouraging you to develop strength and independence. Long-distance travel, spiritual practices, or higher education often take on an active, transformative quality, driving you to learn not just about the world but about yourself. By embracing the courage to walk your own path, living with passion, and acting with purpose, you fulfill the dharma of Aries in the 9th house, discovering that fortune and wisdom are earned through bold, righteous effort.

𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐠𝐨 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 𝐓𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐮𝐬 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

When Taurus rules the 9th house (Dharma Bhava), your life’s purpose is rooted in the pursuit of stability, grounded wisdom, and alignment with lasting values. Taurus, ruled by Venus (Shukra), brings an earthy, steady, and nurturing energy to the house of higher knowledge, fortune, and spiritual growth. The 9th house represents your dharma, the righteous path you are meant to follow, and with Taurus here, you are called to seek wisdom through beauty, harmony, and practical living. Your dharma is tied to embodying values that are not only meaningful but also enduring, guiding you toward a life that honors material abundance and spiritual fulfillment as two sides of the same coin.

The dharma of Taurus in the 9th house is about understanding that true fortune lies in building a life of substance and integrity. Spirituality for you is not about escapism; it is about experiencing divinity in the material world—through nature, art, relationships, and a deep appreciation of life’s blessings. Taurus inspires you to approach higher learning, travel, and spiritual exploration in a way that is practical, grounded, and sensual. Long journeys or philosophical studies often bring realizations about the beauty and stability of life itself. Your connection to dharma flourishes when you nurture the values of patience, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to what truly matters.

Venus as the ruler of Taurus ensures that your path is one of cultivating beauty and harmony both within and around you. You are meant to inspire others by showing that the divine can be found in the simple joys of life—a beautiful landscape, a well-crafted meal, or a loving bond. Teachers and mentors in your life may guide you toward understanding the importance of balance between material and spiritual pursuits. By honoring your dharma through ethical actions, a strong connection to your values, and a willingness to share your gifts, you fulfill the purpose of Taurus in the 9th house. Divine blessings come to you when you live with gratitude, generosity, and a deep respect for the abundance of life, recognizing that both earthly and spiritual riches are part of your sacred path.

𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 𝐆𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

When Gemini rules the 9th house (Dharma Bhava), your life’s purpose is tied to the pursuit of knowledge, communication, and the exploration of diverse perspectives. Gemini, ruled by Mercury (Budha), brings a light, intellectual, and adaptable energy to the house of higher learning, fortune, and spiritual growth. The 9th house represents your dharma, or righteous path, and with Gemini here, you are called to seek truth through intellectual inquiry, communication, and the exchange of ideas. Your dharma is to learn, share, teach, and remain a perpetual student of life, understanding that wisdom comes through curiosity, experience, and the ability to see life through multiple lenses.

The dharma of Gemini in the 9th house is about embracing the mind’s limitless potential. You are destined to explore higher truths, not through rigid doctrine but through questioning, dialogue, and exploration. Your path is not one of dogma or singular belief but of diversity—seeking wisdom through philosophy, study, travel, and human connection. You may find yourself drawn to writing, teaching, or public speaking, as these are avenues through which you share the insights and truths you uncover. Gemini gives your spiritual journey a sense of playfulness and adaptability, urging you to remain open to new ideas and experiences. Long journeys, whether physical or intellectual, serve as opportunities for you to expand your understanding and refine your perception of truth.

Mercury, as the ruler of Gemini, ensures that your dharma is one of connection and sharing. Teachers and mentors in your life may appear as people who inspire intellectual growth, encourage curiosity, and challenge you to think critically. You fulfill your higher purpose when you use your intellect and communication skills to uplift others, fostering understanding and dialogue that bring people closer to universal truths. By embracing your dharma as a seeker, communicator, and connector of knowledge, you allow divine grace to flow into your life. Wisdom and fortune follow when you remain flexible, open-minded, and committed to sharing the light of knowledge with those around you.

𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐩𝐢𝐨 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐫 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

When Cancer rules the 9th house (Dharma Bhava), your life’s purpose is intimately tied to the realms of nurturing, emotional connection, and intuitive spirituality. Cancer, ruled by the Moon (Chandra), brings a soft, reflective, and nurturing energy to the house of higher wisdom, fortune, and spiritual truth. The 9th house is the seat of dharma, where one seeks life’s meaning and aligns with divine principles. With Cancer here, your dharma is to discover and share wisdom through the heart—to embrace spirituality not as an intellectual exercise, but as a deeply personal and emotional experience. Your faith and fortune are linked to your ability to care for others, cultivate emotional harmony, and trust the guidance of your intuition and inner voice.

The dharma of Cancer in the 9th house is to walk the path of compassionate wisdom. You are here to explore truths that resonate deeply with the soul, often drawing on the emotional experiences of your life to guide you. Spirituality for you is not found in rigid structures or formal teachings; it is discovered in the sacred bonds of family, the solace of a peaceful home, and the nurturing connections you form with others. Your higher purpose may involve creating emotional safety for those who seek your care—be it through teaching, healing, or offering a comforting presence. The Moon’s influence gives you an instinctive understanding of life’s cycles, which helps you relate to the challenges of others with great empathy and insight.

Your dharma also involves honoring the divine feminine energy within you—whether male or female—and embracing the power of emotional depth, softness, and devotion. Teachers and spiritual guides in your life may come in the form of maternal figures, family members, or those who inspire emotional growth and healing. Long-distance travel or higher education may be linked to emotional or karmic bonds, often serving as a path of self-discovery and inner peace. By living with sensitivity, acting as a source of nourishment to those around you, and trusting your emotional instincts, you fulfill the dharma of Cancer in the 9th house. Divine blessings and fortune flow when you lead with your heart, intuition, and love, nurturing others while remaining connected to the sacred rhythms of life.

𝐒𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 𝐋𝐞𝐨 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

When Leo rules the 9th house (Dharma Bhava), your life’s purpose is deeply tied to the principles of leadership, honor, and the radiant expression of truth. Leo, ruled by the Sun (Surya), brings a bold, illuminating, and authoritative energy to the house of higher knowledge, spiritual purpose, and divine blessings. The 9th house is where you align with your dharma, the higher law that guides your soul's evolution, and with Leo here, you are called to shine your light of truth and embody a path of righteousness and nobility. Your dharma is to inspire others by living with courage, integrity, and a heart filled with purpose. The Sun in this position reminds you that your spiritual fortune flows when you act as a vessel of divine will, radiating warmth, wisdom, and leadership to guide others.

The dharma of Leo in the 9th house is about understanding that you are here to lead and uplift others through your example. You seek higher truths that allow you to connect with your inner light—the divinity within—and share it generously. Whether through teaching, creative pursuits, or spiritual leadership, your purpose lies in inspiring those around you to live with dignity and authenticity. This placement gives you a natural affinity for philosophy, spirituality, or even religious traditions that emphasize the sacred power of the self. Leo's fire ignites the 9th house with a sense of grandeur and vitality, urging you to approach life’s spiritual journey with confidence, purpose, and a desire to leave a legacy of wisdom and truth.

At its core, Leo’s dharma in the 9th house is about the courage to embody your truth and to shine brightly as an expression of the divine. You may find teachers or mentors who encourage you to step into your power, aligning with roles where you guide others toward spiritual or philosophical enlightenment. Travel or higher education often becomes a stage for self-realization, offering opportunities to display your creativity, leadership, and nobility of character. By living righteously, honoring your inner calling, and recognizing your connection to the greater cosmic plan, you fulfill the dharma of Leo in the 9th house. Divine blessings flow to you when you lead with your heart, act with integrity, and inspire others to embrace their own light and purpose.

𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐠𝐨 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

When Virgo rules the 9th house (Dharma Bhava), your life’s purpose is tied to the principles of service, intellectual refinement, and practical application of knowledge. Virgo, ruled by Mercury (Budha), brings an analytical, detail-oriented, and methodical energy to the house of higher truth, fortune, and spiritual growth. The 9th house represents the pursuit of wisdom, dharma (righteous living), and connection to universal truth, and with Virgo here, you are called to approach this path with a sense of discernment, humility, and purpose-driven service. Your dharma lies in seeking clarity and perfection through study, self-improvement, and sharing your skills and knowledge to help others in tangible ways.

The dharma of Virgo in the 9th house is about recognizing that spirituality is not separate from daily life—it exists in the details, the work you do, and the service you offer to others. While some seek divine truth through lofty ideals, you find it through practical wisdom—by learning, analyzing, and applying teachings that bring measurable results. Virgo’s earthy energy brings a grounded quality to your search for meaning, urging you to focus on what is useful, organized, and healing. Higher education, travel, and philosophical exploration for you are tools for personal refinement and the improvement of society. You are naturally drawn to teachings that emphasize discipline, ethics, and critical thinking, making you an excellent student, teacher, or healer.

Mercury’s rulership over Virgo highlights the importance of intellect and communication in fulfilling your dharma. You are called to bridge the gap between the higher truths of the 9th house and their practical application in everyday life. This placement encourages you to share your knowledge, perhaps through teaching, writing, or healing practices that bring order and clarity to others. Your mentors or spiritual guides may be individuals who offer structured, logical, and practical approaches to life’s challenges. By aligning yourself with a path of humility, precision, and selfless service, you fulfill the dharma of Virgo in the 9th house. Divine blessings flow when you commit to living with integrity, serving others with pure intent, and recognizing that the smallest, most thoughtful actions are a reflection of the sacred.

𝐀𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐬 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 𝐋𝐢𝐛𝐫𝐚 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

When Libra rules the 9th house (Dharma Bhava), your life’s purpose is deeply rooted in the principles of balance, harmony, and fairness as you seek higher truth. Libra, ruled by Venus (Shukra), brings a refined, diplomatic, and relational energy to the house of dharma, spirituality, and fortune. The 9th house represents the soul's path of righteousness, higher learning, and the divine laws of existence, and with Libra here, you are called to walk a path of grace, justice, and beauty. Your dharma lies in cultivating harmony—within yourself, in your relationships, and in the world—while aligning with universal truths that bring peace and equilibrium.

The dharma of Libra in the 9th house involves seeking truth through partnership, intellectual discourse, and a deep appreciation of balance. You are naturally drawn to philosophies, religions, or teachings that emphasize harmony, justice, and ethical living. Libra here gives you the gift of seeing multiple perspectives, making you a natural mediator who seeks fairness and understanding in all areas of life. Higher learning, travel, and spiritual exploration for you are deeply tied to relationships and beauty—you may find divine truth through art, culture, aesthetics, or partnerships with like-minded seekers. Your fortune comes when you embrace the principles of dharma with poise, tact, and a desire to bring peace to both your inner and outer worlds.

Libra’s connection to Venus ensures that your dharma is not ascetic or harsh but filled with an appreciation for the pleasures of life, love, and art as divine expressions. Teachers or mentors in your life may appear as individuals who guide you toward a deeper understanding of balance and the interconnectedness of all things. Long journeys—whether physical or intellectual—are often experiences that refine your sense of beauty and justice, teaching you that dharma exists when you live in harmony with the greater cosmic order. By honoring your values, acting ethically, and fostering peace wherever you go, you fulfill the dharma of Libra in the 9th house. Divine blessings flow to you when you embrace the role of a diplomat of truth, using your wisdom to guide yourself and others toward fairness, love, and universal balance.

𝐏𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 - 𝐒𝐜𝐨𝐫𝐩𝐢𝐨 𝟗𝐭𝐡 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞

When Scorpio rules the 9th house (Dharma Bhava), your life’s purpose is deeply tied to the pursuit of transformation, hidden wisdom, and profound spiritual truth. Scorpio, ruled by Mars (Mangal) and co-influenced by Ketu, brings an intense, mysterious, and transformative energy to the house of higher learning, dharma, and divine blessings. The 9th house represents your connection to universal truths, spiritual growth, and the higher order of existence, and with Scorpio here, you are called to walk a path that requires courage, depth, and inner alchemy. Your dharma lies in uncovering the truths that lie beneath the surface, embracing the challenges of life as opportunities for spiritual evolution, and transforming yourself and others through the wisdom gained in your darkest moments.

The dharma of Scorpio in the 9th house is not one of superficial or conventional understanding. Instead, it is a journey into the hidden, the forbidden, and the deeply spiritual aspects of life. You are meant to explore the mysteries of existence—through occult sciences, astrology, psychology, or esoteric spiritual practices—seeking answers that others may shy away from. Faith for you is not passive; it is forged in the fires of adversity and requires you to face your fears, doubts, and karmic burdens with unshakable resilience. Scorpio’s energy makes your connection to spirituality transformative, demanding that you shed old identities, question outdated belief systems, and emerge with a deeper understanding of your soul’s purpose. Long journeys—whether physical, mental, or emotional—become turning points in your life, propelling you toward deeper awareness and divine grace.

With Mars as the ruler of Scorpio, you are called to act with intensity and focus in the pursuit of dharma, channeling your willpower toward uncovering truth and conquering the ego. The influence of Ketu adds a layer of detachment and spiritual liberation, guiding you to look beyond worldly attachments and material distractions. Your mentors or spiritual teachers may come in the form of challenging figures or profound life experiences that force you to evolve and transform. By surrendering to the process of change, embracing your shadows, and seeking wisdom through depth and intensity, you fulfill the dharma of Scorpio in the 9th house. Divine blessings flow when you allow yourself to undergo the necessary transformations, recognizing that true fortune and enlightenment lie on the other side of surrender, resilience, and the courage to embrace life’s deepest truths.

TikTok (Matrix of Destiny) - Masterlist - YouTube (subliminals)

[globalnewscollective]

No One Is Safe: How ICE’s Latest Arrest Proves Anyone Can Be Taken at Any Time

Imagine stepping outside your home one morning, only to be surrounded by federal agents, handcuffed, and taken away—without warning, without due process, and with no guarantee of release. This nightmare is no longer hypothetical. It’s reality in America today.

The Case of Mahmoud Khalil Mahmoud Khalil, a respected scholar and U.S. resident for years, was abruptly arrested by ICE while leaving his home in New York. His crime? None. Despite having no criminal record, he was detained under vague immigration enforcement policies. (Source: The Guardian)

The Broader Threat: You Could Be Next This isn’t just about Khalil. His arrest signals a chilling shift in policy—one where anyone, regardless of status, can be taken at any time.

Expanded Surveillance & Targeting – Immigration enforcement has broadened beyond undocumented individuals. Now, lawful residents, visa holders, and even naturalized citizens are under heightened scrutiny.

Lack of Due Process – People are being detained indefinitely without clear charges or access to proper legal representation.

Fear as a Weapon – The goal is to instill fear, ensuring that immigrants, activists, and even critics of the government remain silent.

How This Affects You

No One Is Safe – If you think this only applies to immigrants, think again. The precedent being set now means that if the government deems you “undesirable” for any reason, you could be next.

Chilling Effect on Free Speech – Speaking out against policies, criticizing the government, or simply being an advocate for human rights could put you on a watchlist.

Families Torn Apart – Parents are taken from children, students from their universities, workers from their jobs—without warning and often with no recourse.

Mass Detentions Normalized – What starts with immigrants can easily extend to other groups deemed a threat to those in power. If secretive detentions become the norm, America is on a dangerous path.

The Bigger Picture This is not just an immigration issue—it’s a human rights issue. The normalization of arbitrary arrests paves the way for a system where anyone can be detained for the “wrong” beliefs, associations, or simply existing in the wrong place at the wrong time. The erosion of legal protections today threatens everyone’s freedoms tomorrow.

What Can You Do?

Stay Informed – Learn about cases like Khalil’s and share them widely.

Know Your Rights – Understand what to do if you or someone you know is confronted by ICE or other federal agents.

Support Legal Defense Funds – Organizations fighting against unlawful detentions need resources to challenge these abuses in court.

Speak Out – Fear thrives in silence. The more people push back, the harder it is for these policies to go unchallenged.

The case of Mahmoud Khalil is a warning. If we don’t take a stand now, we may soon live in a country where no one is truly safe.

[facts-i-just-made-up]

Why no Super Mario Iliad or Aeneid though?

These are in fact the basis for the two Mario Galaxy games. It's not well known that every Mario game has its roots in mythology. While Mario 3 is well known to be based on several works of Greek Theater, and Mario 2 is clearly inspired by The Arabian Nights, the original Super Mario Bros. is the least known to have been based on, quite exactly, Dante's "Inferno."

The nine circles of hell in Dante's work are the inspiration for each set of 4 side scrolling levels, with each of Bowser's castles being collectively inspired by the ninth circle and transition into purgatory.

The first circle of Dante's hell is "Limbo" where he meets each of the virtuous but unbaptized poets who inspire him along his way. All of them Roman "friends," or in Italian, "cumpà," the origin of the English slang "Goomba." Each of them becomes a literal stepping stone toward his goal of finding his Princess Beatrice, flattening for him to walk through the stone abyss.

In the second layer of hell, Dante encounters the punishment for lust, in which a "whirlwind of lovers" manifests the sinful as fish attempting to swim aimlessly through a windy sky. Dante continues ever downward.

Gluttony in the third circle of hell is punished in eternal darkness, where bulbous white trees thrive, containing the damned within them, eating them as they feasted in life.

The fourth circle, Greed, is full of gold coins atop unreachable mushroom growths. Only a vine from Minos allows Virgil and Dante to climb away.

Deeper still flows Styx, the river of the wrathful. It holds ferocious sea beasts and damned alike who attempt to swamp Dante as he travels ever onward toward the city of Dis, where heretics dwell.

Dis, a tower made of squares and bottomless pits reveals The Beast Geryon, depicted as riding within a cloud, tormenting heretics with spines and impaling them on flagpoles bearing the names of their fraudulent beliefs.

The seventh circle is a wasteland for the violent where canons fire forever. Those who committed violent acts are shot, devoured by flying turtle beasts, or turned into trees like the gluttonous before them.

Hell's worst common sinners lay in ten walled ditches called "Bolgia." The ten great walls in Mario's penultimate level are a direct reference, as are the Brotherhood of the Hammer who built the walls referenced by the "Hammer Brothers." These hold gamblers, liars, and lazy authors who write excessively long jokes instead of working on the story they were commissioned to write.

At the end of each layer, Virgil explains to Dante that Beatrice is in another place. Urging him to keep going even beyond where he and other righteous dead may wander. All the way toward the final central circle, the castle of Hell itself.

Finally in the circle of traitors, Dante meets the devil on a bridge over troubled lava where he breathes flame from under his spiked shell upon the three worst traitors in history, Judas who betrayed Christ, Brutus who betrayed Caesar on an unknown date, and the "Traitor to Come," who is said to be a grotesque orange antichrist who will "sell out his nation" for a "Faulty carriage that travels on the power of lightning."

Finally, Dante finds Beatrice, his princess, who takes him to purgatory beyond the core of the Earth, where he ascends to heaven after touching the emblem of her name, the letter "B." He begins his new quest in Dante's "Purgatorio," which holds the Donut Plains, Chocolate Islands, Vanilla Domes, and Butter Bridges of what would be adapted into Super Mario World for the SNES.

[rhyrhy]

“Hold me, console me and then I'll leave without a trace”

. ݁Unkissed Bruises- A.A . ݁

⤷ Pitfighter Abby! Forbidden Love x High Society

. ݁₊ . ݁⚠︎ cw: Angst, Caitvi inspired, sexual content, death/grief, based off this draft! . ݁₊

9k words- mlist

݁₊ . ݁ Once upon a time, Whitehaven and the Rookery were one. two halves of a thriving whole, a city of beautiful contrasts where differences coexisted rather than divided. The grand halls of Whitehaven stood proudly beside the winding streets of the Rookery, their people mingling, trading, sharing stories beneath the same sky.

But with time came greed, and the growing sense of hierarchy that came with seclusion. and seclusion greed came walls, not the kind built with stone, but with power and privilege. The wealthy of Whitehaven withdrew behind gilded gates, drawing an invisible line between themselves and the Rookery below. The divide deepened, fed by whispered justifications and the belief that separation was natural. That it was better.

Now, they were no longer one.

The Rookery became a place of struggle, of resilience, of those left behind to fend for themselves. It was a city of flickering lanterns and hurried footsteps, of shadowed alleyways humming with secrets. The air smelled of spice and smoke, of meals stretched to feed too many mouths, of rain-soaked stone and burning ambition. Lifestyle shaped by survival.

Whitehaven, in contrast, remained untouched, pristine, a city of towering buildings , and shimmering glass. Its streets were wide, its air perfumed with florals from large gardens. Voices carried in refined tones, syllables drawn out as if even words themselves had the luxury of time. Its people dined on delicacies, oblivious to the hunger just beyond their borders. Oil and water. Two cities, once bound together, now separated by more than just wealth. By history. By resentment. By the quiet understanding that though they still existed side by side, they had long since become worlds apart.

But When the sickness hit, most folk called it the “bug”, a constant infectious shadow that never leaves, leaving you a hollow version of the person you once were. It’s been contained for the most part, but its remnants linger, and those who fell to it never stray too far, no matter how high the walls around Whitehaven rise.

Your father, a respected scientist, kept you safe inside those walls. As a girl, you ran through his office, spilling coffee on important papers and giving him wide eyed apologies when he threw his hands up in frustration. Your mother, a talented caterer, made food that could heal you from the inside out. comfort in every bite. Growing up, you often found yourself perched on the window sill, watching the distant figures on the bridge, wondering about the people outside. The Rookery was rarely spoken of, but you knew why. The guilt and pride of those inside Whitehaven kept it at a distance, as did the stories of struggle that slipped through the faint cracks when the walls opened for supply runs.

You’d ventured outside the walls a few times, as a young woman, but you always returned to the duties and comforts inside. Letting that curiosity slip away in favor of the life you had. After all, those people had their own way of living. They weren’t helpless.

But little did you know, three-four years ago on Celestial Day; the city’s grandest holiday, marking the “enlightenment” of Whitehaven’s founders, would bring a taste of the Rookery right to your feet.

And she was just on the other side of those said walls. Staring right back. A younger Abby sat on the rooftop of the abandoned store, half listening to her friends beside her.

Abby knew ‘wallflowers,’ aka those who lived within WhiteHaven who turned their nose up at people who had lint on their clothes, ripped not by accident but by fashion, and looked down on those who didn’t. It was bullshit, honestly. Everyone would have the same fate if a cure wasn't found in the next 10 years for the bug. No gold or shiny shoes would save you when you were on your deathbed, lips cracked, eyes glossed over.

It was terrifying. The kind of thing that made you want to pray even if you didn’t believe. For some kind of hope.

Abby’s father, Jerry was a respected figure here, someone who people looked to for guidance. A man of science himself, just with the resources he could scrape together. She’d warn him to be careful; the last thing she needed was to lose her rock. The same man she had to beg to call her Abby; now, she was too old for ‘Abigail’. Made her feel like she was still in pigtails. 

But there’s always sun after the storm, and for her? That’s Sidekick, Manny. And the definition of loyalty, Nora, is also from The Rookery; those down here were like family.

The kind of friends you could raid a junkyard and turn it into a mini shooting range. jumping off the large bridge into the blue waters below. Or—watching them do that as she’s terrified of heights. But it looked fun. Just…from a distance. That was her life.

. ݁₊ . ݁ in Whitehaven, on celestial day. It was ice sculptures, crystal glasses filled with drinks Abby couldn’t even pronounce, and so much food that even she knew she wouldn’t be able to try it all. Everything smelled like money. Everything from the banners to accents was navy blue, white, and gold, as polished as the people in attendance. Outside the walls, in the Rookery, people had their own ways of celebrating.

Officials claimed the walls of Whitehaven were meant to protect against crime and disease, but Abby knew better. They weren’t meant to keep anything out. They were meant to keep people like her from getting in. The suffrage these people would only hear about in passing.

The Rookery was her home. Over that broken bridge between the city’s. cracked sidewalks, flickering streetlights, and a kind of toughness where dirty looks were as good as compliments. But here? But here? In prissy Whitehaven, it was nothing like it. Everything was quiet, pristine, and expensive. And her borrowed dress shirt felt like a straitjacket. Suffocating even.

Noses pointed in the air. Ironed shirts, pleated skirts, and laughs that screamed financial stability. That was the first thing Abby noticed. That, and how fucking uncomfortable she felt standing in the middle of it all. She shifted against the stiff fabric, resisting the urge to roll her shoulders. “Remind me why I’m here again?” she muttered, just loud enough for Nora to hear. Nora, having family in Whitehaven despite the tension, would drag her friends to explore the city of bright and white across the bridge. 

“Because I refuse to suffer alone,” Nora answered smoothly, scanning the crowd with the ease of someone who belonged somewhat. “And because my parents think dragging me to these things will make me ‘appreciate fine company.’ I think.” 

Abby groaned, shifting her plate of food to her other hand. It was an unsorted mess of expensive appetizers and tiny, overly decorated portions that tasted too fancy for their own good. Nora glanced down at Abby’s plate and wrinkled her nose. “Are you seriously eating caviar with… a breadstick?”

Abby shrugged, chewing the piece in her mouth. “What? I’m hungry.” She trailed off. Before Nora could get another jab in, Abby’s attention flickered across the room. She didn’t even realize she’d stopped mid-bite until Nora followed her gaze. A girl around their age, working the room. Now she belonged here.

Nora turned back to her curiously. “So that’s what’s got you all quiet.”

Abby snapped out of it, rolling her shoulder. “What?” “The one with the stick up her ass?”  Abby turned back to look at you. Standing near the center of the venue, posture straight, wearing something white and elegant. Talking to the right people, nodding at the right times. Everything about you looked polished. put together in a way that made Abby’s hands twitch at her sides, suddenly way too aware of the bandages she’d wrapped around them earlier that day out of habit.

She scoffed, tearing her eyes away. “She’s… okay, I guess.”

“Okay?” Nora snorted. “Try again.”

Abby rolled her eyes. “Fine. She’s hot. Are you happy?”

“Absolutely,” Nora grinned. She swore she was some kind of matchmaker. But the last time her friend set her up, she vowed to never let her meddle in her love life again.

Abby shook her head, as she decided it was best to step away before Nora found more ways to get under her skin. She needed an escape, just for a moment. Under the guise of grabbing another drink, she turned on her heel and strolled toward the kitchen, weaving through the crowd with practiced ease. The air was thick with laughter and the faint hum of conversation, the warmth of bodies packed into the space making it easy to disappear. As she moved, she brushed shoulders with strangers, their faces blurring into the background. A murmur of apology here, a fleeting glance there. But she barely registered any of it. She just needed a second. A breath. A chance to shake off whatever it was that had settled in her chest.

And then there you were again. You weren’t out in the crowd anymore. Instead, you were standing by the catering setup, arms crossed, giving one of the kitchen staff a very unimpressed look. 

“No, seriously,” you said, exasperated. “What’s the point of me making a list of allergens if you’re not going to follow it?”

The staff member stammered an apology, but you barely heard it, too busy scanning the trays of hors d’oeuvres for any more potential disasters. This day was important. not just for the city, but for you and your mother. Celestial Day was more than just an extravagant celebration. it was a chance to prove your worth, to show the officials that you belonged inside these walls, that your family’s place here wasn’t just a courtesy. At all. One wrong dish, one guest sent into an allergy attack, and it would be a catastrophe. A stain on your mother’s reputation, on yours. Your grip tightened on the notepad in your hand as you exhaled sharply. There was no room for mistakes today. You earned your keep in these walls.

Abby leaned against the doorway, amusement tugging at her lips. Yeah, she was right about the stick-up-your-ass comment.  But she wasn’t expecting to find it this entertaining. The way you talked with your hands. Politely ripping them a new one. She let out a small laugh at something you said louder than intended. You turned at the sound, eyes landing on her. And for the first time that night, or ever, Abby actually felt like she was being looked at.

Taking in the slightly wrinkled button-up, the way she wasn’t quite standing like she belonged here, the sharpness of her jaw, the broadness of her shoulders. her hair not neatly tucked out of her face. Your expression shifted just slightly, curiosity and…something else. You cleared your throat and spoke. 

“Are you lost?” you asked, tilting your head.

She shrugged, glancing over your outfit. “Should I be?” Abby countered, pushing off the doorway and stepping closer.

You returned her once-over. “You just don’t seem like the type to frequent places with, hm… ice sculptures.” That sounded worse than instead, mentally kicking yourself.

“Mhm. And you don’t seem like the type to chew out waitstaff at over-the-top events.” She glanced behind you at the staff, remaking something she wouldn’t eat.

You exhaled sharply, almost a laugh. “Well, they had one job.”

Abby held back a laugh. “Aw, Tragic.”

That earned her a slow, assessing look that made her fingers twitch again. She could see it now, past the perfectly curated exterior. The way your eyes gleamed when challenged. The way you weren’t as prim and proper as she expected you to be. Watching your face as you continued on the conversation. She couldn’t help but like it. And maybe she really liked the way your breath caught just slightly when she leaned in a little closer. Holding her eye contact like you were trying to communicate something, whether it was intentional or not. It was there. 

“Are you always this uptight?” Abby asked, voice lowering into something that made your heart race. You weren’t sure if she was testing you or teasing you. Maybe both.

You opened your mouth to respond, not sure how to. But before you could, a microphone crackled into the background. “Ladies and gentlemen, if we could have your attention for a moment—” your father’s voice pulling you back. Your head snapped toward the sound. your parents. About to give some speech to the crowd. You let out a small sigh of disappointment, before glancing back at the other girl.

“You should get back,” Abby said, smirking. “Wouldn’t want anyone thinking you ran off with the hired help.”

“Good idea, really wouldn’t want that.” Your feet moved before your mind could catch up, carrying you back into the sea of white and gold, but your head felt lighter, buzzing with something unfamiliar. You weren’t sure why it took more effort than usual to turn away. Why you had to smacking yourself not to glance back.

Abby, on the other had, didn’t look away. She stood there, arms crossed, watching as you disappeared into the crowd. Her brow furrowed slightly, lips pressed together as if she were trying to make sense of something. You weren’t what she expected. Not even close. She replayed the conversation in her head, the way you had looked at her, the slight hitch in your breath when she stepped closer. The way her own stomach had twisted in a way she hadn’t felt in a long time.

With a slow exhale, she rolled her shoulders, forcing the thoughts away before they took root. Whatever that was, it didn’t matter. At least, that’s what she told herself as she finally turned back toward Nora. But even as she walked away, that faint flutter in her chest refused to settle.

Nora took one look at her and groaned dramatically. “Oh, no. You’re making that face.”

“What face?” She huffed, knowing exactly what she was talking about.

“The ‘I suddenly don’t mind the stick’ face.”

Abby rolled her eyes but didn’t argue. “Maybe,” she said, biting back a smirk. “…Maybe I don’t.”

. ݁₊ . ݁ She never got your name that night, but she wouldn’t forget a face like that. those eyes full of curiosity, watching her, trying so hard to keep composure. There was something in the way you looked at her, like you were trying to figure her out, Abby almost admired the effort. Almost. She hated that she was so focused on you even with that sudden spike of the bug in the background.

She’d learned your name later, after prying it out of Nora, who had way too much fun making her suffer for it. Abby endured every teasing remark, every knowing grin, all for that small detail about you. God, did that make her desperate or just determined?

She liked you. A girl she barely knew. A wallflower, of all people. But she saw something beneath the polish, the grace the way you bit back at her, that sass behind your words. That familiar defiance. She wasn’t wrong about you. That much was clear when she caught sight of you near the bridge with Nora. Abby had no reason to stop. But she did anyway. That was only confirmed when she caught sight of you near the bridge with Nora. Abby had no reason to stop, but she did anyway. She knew you two knew each other, but something about the way you spoke, the way you glanced around like you didn’t want to be seen, made her think, no, know the conversation was about her. What did you want with her.

The next meeting wasn’t an accident. You made sure of that.

Late-night meetups just beyond the Whitehaven gates became routine, standing in the quiet where the city’s golden glow didn’t quite reach. It was easier in the dark—less pressure, fewer eyes. But the push and pull between you never let up. Abby kept her distance, stubborn in her refusal to be someone’s reckless experiment. And you? You stood your ground just as fiercely, unwilling to let her push you away. You were trying. Why couldn’t she see that?

This was new for you too. sneaking out, breaking rules that had never been yours to bend, just for the chance to see her. To talk. To exist in a space that wasn’t preordained by duty or expectation. It wasn’t about proving a point, or defying the invisible lines drawn between your worlds. It was about her. About this thing between you that neither of you could quite name.

And sure enough, it all came to a head one night. too much tension, too many words left unsaid, both of you too frustrated, with each other, with yourselves, to keep pretending there wasn’t something more. Abby huffed, arms crossed tight over her chest like she was holding herself together. “What—what is this? The wall’s not enough for you?” She was fighting herself more than she was fighting you. But that didn’t make it any easier.

You had come to see her, and things had been fine.until it got a little too close, a little too handsy. Until she suddenly pulled away, realizing what she was doing and who she was doing it with. “It’s not about that,” you sighed.

“Then what. Is. It,” she challenged, voice sharp, daring you to say something that would justify all of this. That would clear up what hadn’t been said outright.

But you didn’t say anything.

Instead, you stepped closer. Close enough that Abby could see the flicker of hesitation in your eyes, the way your fingers twitched at your sides like you were fighting yourself. She could feel your breath, shallow and unsteady, and for once, she didn’t know if she wanted you to pull away or get even closer. Abby’s jaw tensed, a muscle feathering beneath her skin as she forced herself to stay still, waiting. Seeing if you’d do it for her. Your gaze flickered down—to her lips, to the way her fingers curled into fists at her sides—before snapping back up. Like you were making a decision you couldn’t take back.

Then, without another word, you kissed her. It wasn’t hesitant, wasn’t careful. It was a decision. A line crossed. Abby barely had time to react before instinct took over. Before her hands found your waist, pulling you in like she’d been waiting for this longer than she’d ever admit. The tension between you-the late nights, the teasing, the push and pull, the distance she kept forcing-it all crumbled in an instant.

It was game over. Her fingers dug into your sides, desperate, like she was anchoring herself to this-to you. Your hand slipped into her hair, tugging slightly, and she groaned against your lips, her resolve snapping. She pressed harder, kissed you deeper, as if trying to make up for every second she'd spent pretending this wasn't exactly what she wanted.

By the time you pulled back, your breath was shallow, your forehead resting against hers. "That clear it up?" you asked, voice still breathless, a grin tugging at your lips.

Abby's hands stayed firm on your waist, thumbs tracing absentminded circles against your skin. She let out a short, breathless laugh, her lips still hovering over yours. "Might have to do it again," she murmured, tilting her head slightly, her lips barely brushing against yours. "Just to be sure."

. ݁₊ . ݁ That hesitation melted away after that. Late-night meetings turned into something more. something neither of you named but both understood. It was unspoken but ever-present, settling into the quiet moments between teasing and stolen touches. You fixing her posture when she slouched, Abby shoving some Rookery dish at you, practically spoon-feeding it while you tried not to gag. It was different, the good kind of different. The kind that made Abby actually do something with her hair in the mornings, especially if she knew she’d be seeing you.

And then one night, caught up in the warmth of her touch, your heart hammering against your ribs, you blurted it out before you could think better of it.

“I—want… mm, to be together. officially.” The words tumbled out, breathless, as Abby kissed her way down to your shoulder.

She froze for a beat before grinning against your skin. “Yeah? Not too scrappy for you, Miss Perfect?” She was always testing, always pushing, her lips traveling lower, her hands steady on your hips. That teasing smirk, the one that made your knees weak, stayed in place even as her eyes flicked up to meet yours.

You rolled your eyes, a breathy laugh slipping out, even as your fingers curled into the sheets. “Hah—mm. No. I like… ‘scrappy.’ Your version of it, I mean.”

Abby grinned. “I’ll take it.” Her fingers hooked into the waistband of your pants, slow and deliberate, her eyes never leaving yours.

. ݁₊ . ݁ As much as Abby wanted to focus on you, your smile, the way you smelled when you hugged her. there was something else looming. The bug wasn’t highly contagious, but when you were a scientist, trying to find some kind of cure, exposure was inevitable. And for Jerry, it had finally caught up to him. Despite her pleas for him to be careful. All her years and love.

Abby felt her heart plummet.

It was a sensation she wasn’t prepared for. the kind that stole the air from her lungs, that made her chest feel like it was caving in. One moment, she was standing. The next, she was falling, even though her feet never left the ground. Memories rushed in like a flood she couldn’t hold back. The sound of his laugh warm, familiar, something she had taken for granted. The way his hand would ruffle her hair, even when she grumbled about it, pretending to be annoyed. The way he’d look at her, eyes full of certainty, and tell her she’d be okay, even when the world around them wasn’t.

She blinked rapidly, but it didn’t stop the sting behind her eyes, the blur creeping into her vision. Her breath came faster, shorter, and suddenly, standing still wasn’t an option. She had to move.

Her feet carried her before she even decided where she was going, but she already knew. You. You were the only face she wanted to see right now. The only solid thing in a world that suddenly felt too vulnerable, too uncertain. You were okay. Alive. Real.

And you wouldn’t leave. You couldn’t. She wouldn’t let you.

The sound of rapid knocking on your window near the dresser jolted you awake. Your heart jumped , but the second the haze of sleep lifted, you knew who it was. Groaning, you swung your legs over the bed, already preparing to scold her for coming unannounced. Someone could’ve seen her. or worse, thought she was breaking in. Sneaking her into town was only a good idea in the daylight, when there were too many people to notice someone who didn’t belong.

Still, when you reached the window and found her standing there, cheeks stained, breath trembling, all the irritation drained from you.

You didn’t ask any questions. You just pulled her inside, wrapping your arms around her. She melted into you, gripping the back of your shirt like she was afraid you’d disappear if she let go. You felt her shudder, her breaths uneven against your shoulder. You wanted to ask, but you already knew. The spike in deaths recently, it had to be that. Another loss. Another name added to the ever-growing list of people Abby had loved and lost. And you? You were still here. You squeezed your eyes shut, holding her tighter. There was something you weren’t telling her. A possibility. A thread of hope so thin it barely held its shape, but it was something.

Your father’s research had been extensive, more than most people knew. The world had given up on finding a solution, but he hadn’t. While officials praised his work publicly, behind closed doors, they questioned his methods, his choices—the ethical lines he had nearly crossed. You weren’t supposed to see most of it. But you had.

Late nights spent skimming through his notes, his private journals, his failed trials, looking for anything. And buried beneath the endless calculations, molecular breakdowns, and abandoned compounds, there was Potential. Not a cure. Not yet. But the closest thing to progress anyone had made in years. A formula that had almost worked before it collapsed under its own instability. Abby didn’t know. And you weren’t sure if you’d ever tell her. What good would it do? Hope was dangerous in a world like this. It could lift you up, make you believe, and then drop you from heights so cruelly high you’d never land on your feet again.

She had already lost so much. You’d seen the way she carried her grief. like a wound that refused to heal, an ache she never spoke about but always felt. You wanted to tell her, to give her something to hold on to, but what if you were wrong? What if it led to nothing?

You couldn’t do that to her. So you stayed quiet. Held her like you weren’t keeping something from her. Like you weren’t already pulling away, one unspoken truth at a time. And when she finally whispered, “I don’t want to lose you, too,” you just pressed your lips to her golden brown hair, forcing a smile she couldn’t see.

“Never,” you murmured. “I’m here. I’m right here,” you whispered, one hand cradling the back of her head, holding her as if you could carry her grief with her.

. ݁₊ . ݁ That was the first time of many she’d sneak in. It started small—meeting in hidden spots, then slipping past Whitehaven’s walls under cover of darkness. She learned more about your world—how effortless everything seemed, how trapped you felt in it. And in return, you got glimpses of hers. Stories of the Rookery, of scraped knees and hunger, of nights spent listening to her father’s voice, now just an echo. The seasons passed, watching the summer fun beat down, the fall leaves orange snd red, the flowers blooming, to the snow falling. You were right there, by her side through one of the in toughest times in her life.

“Shh, you’ll get us caught,” you giggled, pulling her hand as one of the maids nearly spotted you both sneaking out of the kitchen.

Abby only grinned, unfazed. “Please. I’ve been doing this for what—a year? We would’ve been caught by now.”

And later that night; Abby curled beside you, watching as you slept, her heart swelling with quiet adoration. She loved you. She loved this. even if it was little more than a secret. Privacy was good. Not everything needed to be known. People had a way of ruining things once curiosity got the better of them.

And Abby, unfortunately, wasn’t exempt from it.

She pressed a lingering kiss to your forehead before slipping out of bed, stretching as she padded toward the bathroom. But instead of returning to you, she let herself wander. The house was too big, warm in a way the Rookery never was. The towering windows, the gilded edges of every frame, the polished floors that barely made a sound beneath her socked feet.

Her fingers brushed over a portrait on the wall you and your family, untouched by the world beyond the walls. The navy of your dress reminded her of the night she met you. So prim and proper, the way you crossed your legs, the soft, pardon? instead of a blunt what?. the smallest details about you, the ones she once teased, were the ones she had grown to love the most. A wallflower she’d met grow its vines over her own.

But as she moved past your father’s office, that warmth inside her chest twisted into something else entirely.

A stack of papers lay scattered across the polished desk, your families last name stamped in the corner. And there, written in stark black and red ink, were the words that stopped her cold:

“Hypothesis for a Potential Cure.”

Her stomach fell. A cure?

Her fingers twitched at her sides before she stepped forward, pushing the heavy oak door open just enough to let the golden glow of the fireplace illuminate the papers. Her breath came in shallow bursts as she reached out, flipping through the documents, her movements hesitant at first, then completely desperate. This had been here. All this time. This research, this possibility. Did you know?

Abby’s pulse filled her ears. She didn’t think, she just grabbed as many pages as she could and turned, her feet carrying her back to your room, to you. She shook you awake with little patience. You weren’t sure what she was rambling about.

“I mean this—this is something, right? I just—” Her words stumbled out in a rush as you blinked up at her, groggy and confused.

Then you saw the papers in her hands. Your stomach twisted into a million knots. “Abby, it’s..that’s not what you think.” Your voice was quiet, but it didn’t soothe anything.

“Wait. You knew?” Abby snapped her head toward you, her voice sharp, almost disbelieving. You opened your mouth, but nothing came out. Her breath hitched, her grip tightening on the papers as if she needed to steady herself.

“You… you held me that night,” she whispered, her voice breaking. “And you knew.” She held the papers up, blue eyes burning into you. “About this?”

Now, The room felt smaller, suffocating even. You sat up, pulling the sheets around you, trying to keep your voice even. “Listen to me. it’s just a thesis. A theory. My father isn’t even close to a cure.”But Abby wasn’t listening. She couldn’t.

“A theory is better than nothing,” she snapped, her voice cracking. “Do you know what we’d give for even a sliver of hope? My dad—he died for nothing while you’ve been sitting on this?”

You swallowed hard, forcing yourself to stay calm. “It’s not that simple, Abby. A cure isn’t just something you throw into the world. It could backfire, mutate, make things worse—”

Abby let out a small laugh. “Worse than what? Watching everyone rot outside your perfect fucking walls?”

The words hit like a slap. Your jaw clenched, fingers digging into the sheets as you forced yourself to breathe. “We have to be careful.” Abby was still standing there, fists clenched, jaw tight, like she was forcing herself not to shake. The papers lay scattered on the floor between you, proof of what had been hidden, proof of everything that now stood between you. But you weren’t ready to let her go.

“Abby, please,” you stepped forward, reaching for her, but she flinched. just barely, but enough that you froze. Her hand raised up near her shoulder like she couldn’t bare you touching her.

“No.” Abby stepped back. “You have to be careful. Because you live up here. Because it’s not your people dying.” The silence that followed was deafening. Abby wanted you to fight her on this. She wanted you to say, fuck the risks, to agree that something anything. was worth trying. To prove you were different. But you didn’t. You stayed silent. And that silence was what destroyed her.

“You.” Your voice cracked, but you kept going. “You are my people, Abby.”

Abby sucked in a sharp breath. You watched her throat bob, her fingers twitch, like she wanted to believe you, like she wanted to hold onto it, onto you. Onto us. But the moment passed. She exhaled, slow and steady, pressing her lips together like she was biting back words she couldn’t afford to say. Then, finally, she shook her head.

“No, I’m not,” she whispered. “Not anymore. Not when you are making me choose between you and them,” she said, voice hoarse, like the fight had already drained her. “Because I can’t do that. I won’t.”

The night had started like any other. And ended in the worst way possible. She couldn’t believe it. Couldn’t believe you were the one person she let herself trust. had known. Had held her. Had whispered reassurances while keeping something this big from her. Your voice barely registered as she grabbed her shoes, her movements sharp and hurried. She turned toward the door without another word, slipping into the dim hallway, the only light guiding her the pale silver glow of the moon.

You sat there, frozen, the strap of your nightgown slipping off your shoulder, sheets pooling around you, growing colder by the second. And then she was gone.

. ݁₊ . ݁ Weeks had passed since you last saw Abby, and the ache in your chest wouldn’t let you be. You had to see her again. You had to fix this. The rain fell in sheets, cold and relentless, as if the world itself was telling you to turn back. But you couldn’t. Not when there was so much left unsaid.

The city’s glow felt miles away as you approached the edge of Whitehaven’s borders. The place where the city’s light couldn’t quite reach, the place where it all began, and now, where it would end. The gap between you two had stretched farther than you could have imagined, and with every step closer, you could feel that distance growing. She saw you coming, but Abby didn’t turn to face you. No acknowledgment. No greeting. Just the sound of the rain, the rhythm of her breaths as she stared out at the empty space before her.

“Abby,” you said, your voice shaking with desperation. “Please, you have to stop this.” You could feel your hands trembling, the rain mingling with the sweat on your palms. “This hope you’re clinging to…it’s dangerous. People are dying. My father’s work wasn’t some miracle cure. It was just a theory, one that never even had the chance to be tested.” You stepped forward, reaching out, but she didn’t budge. You gripped her arms, trying to make her see reason, trying to stop the madness before it consumed her. “You can’t give people false hope. Not after everything we’ve already lost.”

Her eyes remained forward, a steel edge to her gaze. It was like your words couldn’t reach her, like you weren’t even speaking the same language anymore. She didn’t even flinch, her jaw set tight with defiance. “I’m not giving them false hope,” she said, her voice strained but firm, as if she was holding on to every word just to stay grounded. “I’m giving them something to hold on to.” She motioned toward the far-off horizon, the rain blurring everything. “Hope is all we have left. You can’t take that away from them.”

Your heart thudded painfully in your chest as the weight of her words crashed over you. This wasn’t what you wanted. You just wanted her to understand. your voice cracking, pleading with her, “you don’t get it. I can’t be the one to bring that hope. Not when it’s not real.” You could feel your frustration spilling out, every ounce of anger and sorrow mixing. “You’re fighting a battle you can’t win. It’ll tear you apart.”

She shook her head, the rain soaking her hair, her face hardening in a way you hadn’t seen before. But beneath her anger, there was fear. fear of losing everything. Fear of facing the truth. “You think I don’t know that?” she spat, taking a breath as if the words themselves were choking her. “You think I haven’t been trying to make sense of all this?” She looked up, gesturing to the city behind her, where once there had been dreams. “You’ve got all this. All the answers. And I’ve got nothing. Nothing but a fight.” Her voice faltered, and her gaze dropped to the ground, her shoulders slumping under the weight of it all. “And you want me to just give that up?”

There was silence between you, thick and suffocating, as the rain continued to pour. You could feel the pressure of her words crushing you. “I’m not just doing this for me,” she whispered, barely audible over the rain. But you could hear the steel in her tone. “I’m fighting for the people I’ve lost. Your people. I’m fighting for the ones who died thinking they were forgotten.” Her voice cracked on the last words, raw with emotion.

Your heart was in pieces, but the cold reality of it all stung. You wanted to fight back, to tell her that there was nothing more to fight for, that this war was over, but all you could do was look at her. Really look at her.

“I’m sorry, Abby,” you whispered, the words tasting like butter of defeat. “But you’re not going to win this. Not like this.”

Her face humed with disappointment, the kind that came when something that once seemed so sure had already fallen apart.“Then I guess this is where you— we, say goodbye,” she said quietly, almost as if it was the most natural thing in the world. Her words were a finality, a door slamming shut with no chance of being opened again. You stood frozen as she turned away, her silhouette swallowed by the night, the rain still falling relentlessly between you. The space between you had never been wider. The ache in your chest felt like it would never end.

And just like that, she was gone. Again.

. ݁₊ . ݁ Over the course of those years, time seemed to move in an endless blur. Days bled into weeks, weeks into months, until the seasons cycled in their usual pattern, but nothing felt the same. The vibrant world, once bursting with color and life, now seemed washed out, as if the sun itself had pulled away its warmth. It was as though some part of her, some crucial spark, had been drained, leaving behind a muted echo of what once was.

The holidays came and went, each one marked by the absence of someone she had once held close, the absence of something that had given her life meaning. Friends and family would smile, laugh, and carry on as if the world hadn’t shifted, but Abby couldn’t shake the hollowness that settled deep in her chest. It wasn’t just the space left by her father’s death—it was the space left by you, too. Your absence had carved a hole in her heart, one that no amount of distraction or pit fighting could fill.

The people she’d once called her own were still there, still around, but everything had changed. Manny, Nora, and Leah stayed by her side, watching with worried eyes as she slipped further away, the woman they knew turning into someone they didn’t quite recognize anymore. They tried to pull her back, to remind her of the life she had before, but she had already started losing herself in the fight, in the chaos.

The nights were the hardest. Alone, in the silence, memories of your time together would rise to the surface. Laughing over dinner, the quiet moments shared, the way her heart had raced when she was with you. Those memories were bittersweet now, tainted by the unresolved tension between them, the words left unsaid. Abby couldn’t bring herself to visit your home, to see the space where she’d once felt safe. She couldn’t bear the thought of the ghost of what they had, and yet, the thought of you lingered in the edges of her every waking moment. It wasn’t just the time that had passed; it was everything that had changed. What once felt like a solid, comforting bond had turned into something fragile, a thread she was afraid to pull on in case it unraveled everything she’d become since. The love she once felt for you wasn’t gone, but it had hollowed out, turned into a quiet, aching weight that never fully left.

For you She was missing. The curtain by the large window, the one that once overlooked her home. stayed drawn. Closed, like it could somehow keep her absence from creeping in. And for the most part, it did. Rumors of a potential cure began to swirl through the city, whispers slipping through cracks in the walls. You heard them in passing, read them in coded messages, felt them like a knife to the ribs. You never spoke about that night.

How could you?

And for that figure burnt into your memory, her father died, and there was a chance everything didn’t have to fall apart. The Rookery, once her anchor, now felt like a prison. The streets she had memorized since childhood. The ones he had walked beside her, teaching her, protecting her, felt foreign. Empty. The home they shared, the one filled with his voice and his warmth, was nothing more than walls and silence.

And you. The one person she might have turned to was nothing more than an abandoned, open string. A thread she couldn’t follow, not without unraveling completely. What happened was nothing more than an act of betrayal from the woman she loved—wanted to love.

So, she stopped trying.

With no direction, she let herself drift. And the drifting led her to the underground fights. The first time she went, it was just to blow off steam. But she found herself too immersed to stay away long. Pain made sense there. It had rules. A punch landed, and a bruise formed. A hit taken, a price paid. The fights weren’t about winning, not really. They were about feeling something: anger, exhaustion, clarity. Anything but the ache in her chest that refused to fade.

The view of Whitehaven above fueling each blow.

Manny, Nora—they tried. They watched from the sidelines and made excuses for her when she came home battered and bloody. They pulled her out of back rooms, patched her up, and told her she was better than this. But they didn’t understand.

She needed this.

She needed the weight of a fist against her ribs, the sting of split knuckles, the satisfaction of someone else’s blood on the floor. It was easier to be this. A fighter, a brute, a body in the ring. than the girl who had lost everything. More than she could bare.

. ݁₊ . ݁ And now, years later.

Her knuckles wrapped, a second skin of bandages soaked with the memory of harsh punches. The jet black hair, new and darker than before, fell messily around her face. Her back tattoo was hidden under the faded tank top, but she could feel it, the weight of the meaning of the ink on her skin. A portrait of what she’d lost. She carried it with her, always.

The pit always reeked of sweat, blood, and alcohol, or desperation. The heat pressed in from every side, a suffocating feeling. Bodies packed together, their faces lit by the lights hanging above, the heat causing a bead of sweat. It was the usual crowd, rowdy, ready for a show, but none of that mattered to Abby. She didn’t care about the noise, the smell, or the grimy underbelly of this place. She just needed the fight. To hit something, someone. Whatever idiot would be brave enough.

But she wasn’t thinking about any of that when she felt her eyes land on her.

You. Fuck

For a second, Abby froze. The noise around her blurred. She didn’t want to look, didn’t want to be caught looking. Didn’t want to meet your gaze, but before she could stop them, they were snapping toward you. You were standing across the pit, just at the edge of the crowd. There was no mistaking the way her chest tightened when their gaze locked. She hadn’t expected to see you again, not here. Not like this.

What are you doing here, in the rookery?

Her jaw clenched. She almost turned away and walked out before you noticed her, but her feet stayed planted to the spot. Abby couldn’t remember the last time she’d felt this exposed. The past few months had been a blur of anger, distraction, and fights, anything to numb the hurt. But seeing you again, in a pit of all places… It felt like someone had just torn open a new wound.

Your lips moved, and for a second, Abby didn’t even hear the words. She was too busy staring, too busy wondering if this was real or if it was just some fucking dream

“New look …suits you.” You said, scanning over her. “Bit intense, though.”

Her lips twitched. Intense. Yeah, that was the word for it. She could feel the weight of her own body, every bruise, every broken piece of her, and it all felt like it was on display now.

“Yeah?” She shifted her weight, rolling a shoulder, trying to shrug off the growing pit in her stomach. “What can I say? You always said I had a thing for dramatic.”

The words crawled their way out. Like she wasn’t standing there in front of the person who had seen her at her weakest. This was fine; she doesn’t care. It doesn't matter anymore. But if she was being honest with herself… it still did. All this time later.

She crossed her arms over her chest, just to make sure her hands stayed put. Keep it together. For her. For everyone else. She couldn’t let you see how much this hurt, even after everything. Watching your eyes scan over her “bloodhound” tattoo on her forearm.

“Don’t like it?” she added, tilting her head, trying to keep the cool distance.

“Just…different is all” you said.

She rolled her eyes, a habit she knew you’d always found irritating. But that was the point, wasn’t it? To keep you at arm’s length

“Different’s good. Keeps things interesting.” Her eyes flicked to the crowd, trying to focus on anything other than you. She should walk away. Get out of here. But she found herself glued to the spot, stuck between wanting you to leave and wanting you to stay. Wanting things she couldn’t have.

"You’re staring."

“Well sorry, it’s just not everyday you see an angry oil slick walking around” You huffed at her.

She snorted, trying her best to keep her demeanor nonchalant. "Angry oil slick? Jesus, I’m gone, and that’s how you talk to me? Nice to see you again, too.” She rolled her shoulders, ignoring the pang in her chest. She could almost forget how much she missed you when you were standing right in front of her.

She hated this . The familiar sting. She hated it, and she loved it. She didn’t want to feel this way, didn’t want to let herself care. But the truth was, she still did. Even after all the fighting, all the distance, she was standing here, willing to be hurt again. Her gaze softened for a second. She wanted to say something, anything, to bridge the gap between you. To make you understand. But the words got stuck, caught between her teeth like glass. The pit was suddenly too small. Too close. She needed to get away, needed to fight, but the weight of your presence was suffocating her. You were everything she was trying to forget, and everything she couldn’t let go of.

She glanced over at the entrance, where the next fight was about to start. The lights flickered above her, the sound of the crowd growing louder, but all Abby could think about was the tension between you, the hurt that never seemed to go away.

“Just leave,” she muttered, barely audible. She didn’t know if she was talking to you or to herself. “You’re not supposed to be here.”But you didn’t leave. You stayed, and she couldn’t stop the rush of emotions that flooded her chest. Maybe it was time to stop running. Maybe it was time to face what she’d been avoiding for so long. Maybe.

“Abby,” you started, but your throat tight. “I didn’t come here to fight. I—“

“You came all the way here… just to check if I’m alright?” she interrupted, her voice cutting through the tension. There was something in her eyes, a flicker of softness she wouldn’t allow herself to fully acknowledge. She’d be lying if she said it didn’t soften something deep inside. The fact that you still cared enough to show up. Damn you for that. But it wasn’t enough. It wasn’t what she wanted, not anymore.

“Yes. I came here to see you. And now you’re telling me to just…go? Normally people would be appreciative, but sorry for trying!”

“Appreciative?” Abby scoffed, taking a step back, a bitter smile tugging at the corners of her mouth. “When did I ask you to show up here?” Her fists clenched involuntarily, the anger boiling inside her. Frustration. Resentment. It was all-consuming, and she didn’t know who she was more angry at. You for showing up, or herself for still caring. “Jesus, I don’t need someone breathing down my damn neck,” she spat, her chest heaving with each sharp breath. “I’m fine.”

“Breathing down your neck? No one held you here to talk to me.” “And you don’t need to ask. That’s what you do when you care. Still.” You could feel the words sting, but the truth cut deeper. You were tired of standing by, waiting for her to come back to you.

“Well, I don’t need your care, not anymore,” she muttered, the words harsh, even to her own ears. She hated how much she still wanted it. How much she missed you. But she couldn’t admit that, not now. “You lost that privilege a long time ago,” she finished, her voice cracking as the weight of it hit her.

You were quiet for a long time, the silence between you two oppressive. But it didn’t stay silent for long. The air was thick with the unspoken truths, both of you standing there, unwilling to be the first to break.

“And trying?” Abby’s voice shook with the force of her emotions. “You’re trying now? What, all this time later? Too little, too late.” The words wrenched from her chest like a physical blow. She couldn’t even look at you. “Where were you, huh? When I needed you the most? When I couldn’t breathe without it feeling like sandpaper in my lungs?” She clenched her fists, biting down on the tears that threatened to spill. “Where. Were. You?”

The words hung in the air like a shroud, and it was your turn to feel the weight of them. Your stomach twisted with guilt and regret, but you couldn’t let her destroy you with them. You couldn’t. Not when it felt like she was shutting you out for good.

You couldn’t keep the frustration out of your voice. “Abby, you gave me no choice! You barely looked at me that night.” Your heart was pounding. “And you’re the one who turned your back on me. I deserved more than that. I understand you’re hurting, but that doesn’t mean push me to the fucking side.”A bitter laugh escaped your lips. “So, you don’t want to talk to me after all this time? Fine. Be like that, Abbigail.” You shook your head, staring at her with a mixture of anger and hurt. “You know what, you’re right. This, you, and your constant pushing me away isn’t my problem anymore. This was stupid to think that maybe, just maybe, you’d open your mouth and talk to me.”

You looked her up and down, trying to make sense of what you were seeing. The girl you loved, the one you thought you knew… it wasn’t her anymore. “The girl I dated surely would have. But this, whoever this is?” You gestured to her. The next words ringing out into the space like a gunshot, a wake up call.

“This is definitely not her.”

The words hit Abby like a slap. She flinched, but her gaze never wavered. She wanted to respond. To tell you how much it hurt to hear you say that, to make you understand the kind of fight she was in. But the words caught in her throat. For a long moment, the tension between you could have shattered the walls around you. Abby’s breath came in shallow gasps, her chest tight, her mind racing for the right thing to say. But before she could, she heard it.

A loud crack. The unmistakable sound of something, someone, slamming into the cage nearby, the crowd roaring in excitement. Her heart hammered in her chest. The fight was starting. And for the first time in long time, Abby wasn’t sure if she wanted to fight. or run.

. ݁₊ .To stay for you, or go for herself?

Taglist babies: @grey-jedi12

[xiibiibby]

Vampire: Prodigy — Romance Options ❤️

Little update post!

So, as I've said, I don't want to spoil too much about the romance options in the game before the demo, but I'll give you a little peek at 'em in the meantime!

🩸 Lucan — The Untamed

Lucan is a fighter, a liar, and a walking disaster wrapped in cool leather, muscle, and bad decisions. He has no love for vampire hierarchy, but he plays along when it benefits him. As long as the ones on top keep paying him to knock heads and giving him a cushy place to stay, he won’t complain. Unlike most of the elite, Lucan never pretended vampires were noble creatures. He sees them exactly for what they are—bloodthirsty predators hiding behind their wealth and politics. Their games never interested him, only the fights that came out of them.

🩸 Marcella— The Rebel Aristocrat

Marcella was once part of the system, a high-ranking noble from one of the last great vampire houses, seated among the elite of the Vampire Council. She thrived in that world—power, luxury, and the safety of well-maintained order. It wasn’t perfect, but it worked. She had control, influence, and the respect of her peers. And then, everything fell apart.

🩸 Aldric — The Bloodsworn Knight

Aldric is a warrior first, a strategist second, and a man last. Bound by duty and unshakable loyalty to the Council and his Court, he upholds order, discipline, and strength above all else. Unlike the aristocrats who scheme behind velvet curtains or the rebels who cry for revolution, he sees the bigger picture—the fragility of vampire society, the cracks forming beneath them, and the enemies gathering beyond their borders. If vampirekind is to survive, they must be stronger, stricter, unbreakable—and Aldric will see to it that they don't crumble under their own arrogance.

🩸 Vanya— The Healer

Vanya is a medic, a scientist, and a woman desperately searching for a cure in a world that refuses to believe one exists. She was never meant to be a soldier. She wasn't raised to wield a weapon, nor was she trained to hate. But war doesn't care about her intentions, and she's seen too much blood to turn away now. Born into the Lazarus Order, Vanya was expected to follow in the footsteps of the hunters before her—to fight, to kill, to purge the disease of vampirism from the world. But where others saw monsters, she saw a sickness. A condition. Something that could be studied, understood, maybe even cured. This belief has made her an outlier, a heretic within the Order. While the rest of the Lazarus Order seeks extermination, she pursues a solution. She hunts not for sport, not for vengeance, but to gather data, to test her theories, and to prove that there is another way.

🩸 Hadrian— The Skeptic

Hadrian’s hatred for vampires isn't philosophical, not political—it is deeply personal, carved into his body and burned into his mind. As a child, his family was slaughtered by vampires, their home reduced to a nest of gore and torment. He was left alive—not as an act of mercy, but as a plaything. They toyed with him, tormented him, and fed from him for days. By the time the Lazarus Order found him, he was malnourished, broken, and barely clinging to life. But there was something still burning inside him—rage, hatred, and the will to never let himself be powerless again. They gave him a choice: become a hunter, or let the past consume him. He chose the hunt. Hadrian doesn't believe in peace between humanity and vampires. He's seen too much, suffered too much to accept the idea that these creatures—leeches who live only to feed on others—could ever be anything but an enemy. Treaties are meaningless. Alliances are temporary conveniences. The only way to ensure humanity’s survival is to eradicate the threat entirely.

🩸 Corvin— The Half-blood

Corvin is a man caught between two worlds, yet belonging to neither. His mother, a human woman, gave birth to something that should never have existed—a child with vampiric hunger but a beating heart. His father, whoever he was, left nothing but a legacy of rejection. From the moment he could understand the world, Corvin knew he was an outsider. Humans saw the hunger in his eyes and feared him. Vampires saw his diluted blood, his mortality, his limitations, and despised him. There was no middle ground—no place that would take him in as one of their own. So when the Lazarus Order gave him a choice, he took it. They didn’t accept him, not truly, but they could use him, and that was enough. Better to be a weapon than a mistake. If he could prove himself—if he could hunt vampires better than anyone else—then maybe, just maybe, he’d carve out a place for himself.

🩸 Seraphiel— The Last Bloodbearer

Seraphiel is a remnant of an age long forgotten, a being who's watched civilizations rise and crumble into dust. Older than most can comprehend, they're one of the last carriers of the divine blood—the sacred essence that birthed the first vampires. For centuries, they remained in self-imposed exile, watching from the shadows as vampire society decayed into arrogance, betrayal, and inevitable ruin. They had no desire to meddle, no reason to intervene—until now.

And there you have it~!

I've only shared little snippets of their bios since I don't wanna spoil too much about them. But if you have any questions pertaining to any of 'em, feel free to ask! I'll answer so long as it doesn't spoil anything major.

Thanks for reading <3 I'll have more to share regarding the project soon!

The wonderful character art was drawn by dariakonnova!

[serenityluvz]

𝗘𝗻𝗵𝘆𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝗘𝘆𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗰𝘁 𝗗𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗲𝘅

⋆𐙚₊˚ˢᵉʳᵉⁿⁱᵗʸᴸᵘᵛᶻ

Jay – "Look at me when you come."

Jay is all about dominance and control, and eye contact is a huge part of that. He’d insist on you keeping your eyes on him, using it as a way to make sure you feel everything he’s doing to you. If you try to look away, expect him to gently grip your chin and force you to meet his gaze. He slows his movements, his lips hovering just over yours. "What did I say? Keep your eyes on me." His dark, hooded gaze pins you in place, making everything feel even more intense.

Heeseung – "I love seeing your face like this."

Heeseung thrives on intimacy, and eye contact during sex? That’s his weakness. He wants to see everything—your expressions, the way your eyes flutter, how blown out your pupils get. If you look away, he’d coax you back with whispered praises, letting you know just how beautiful you look falling apart for him. His forehead presses against yours as he rocks into you, voice husky. "Don’t be shy, baby. Let me see you." His fingers trail up to cup your face, tilting it so your gazes lock, making the pleasure even deeper.

Jake – "You’re so pretty when you’re like this."

Jake is naturally affectionate, and eye contact during sex makes everything feel even more intimate for him. He’s the type to smile in between moans, whispering the sweetest things while making sure you feel his love through every movement. He groans softly, brushing stray hair from your face. "God, you’re perfect." His eyes stay locked onto yours, warmth and passion radiating from his gaze as he moves in sync with you.

Sunghoon – "You’re gonna kill me with those eyes."

Sunghoon likes eye contact, but he also gets weak for it. If you stare too deeply into his eyes, expect him to either lose control or get all flustered. He’ll try to maintain it, but if you suddenly hold his face and look at him like he’s your whole world? He might just break. You tighten your legs around him, locking eyes as you whisper his name. His breath stutters, and he groans, burying his face in your neck. "You’re really trying to ruin me, huh?"

Ni-ki – "Tch, you’re too much."

Ni-ki likes eye contact when he’s in control, but if you’re the one initiating it? He’ll get flustered. He enjoys teasing and making you melt under his gaze, but the moment you stare back at him with that look—pure need and affection—he’ll struggle to keep his composure. He smirks at first, watching your dazed expression. "What? Can’t take your eyes off me?" But then, you cup his face and whisper "I love you." His cocky facade falters, and he groans, crashing his lips against yours.

Jungwon – "D-Don’t look at me like that."

Jungwon tries to keep control, but deep eye contact makes him nervous. He’s still learning to embrace his dominant side, so if you suddenly hold his face and stare into his soul? He’ll break eye contact, flustered beyond belief. But if he’s in the mood to take charge? He’ll make you hold his gaze. You whimper his name, and he risks a glance, immediately groaning as he looks away. "You’re—ugh, you’re really testing me right now."

Sunoo – "Ahh, stop! You’re making me shy!"

Sunoo loves intimacy, but deep eye contact during sex? That’s too much for his soft heart. He’d giggle through the tension, hiding his face in your neck. He might peek up at you every now and then, but if you hold his face and stare too long? Instant blush. You cup his cheeks mid-movement, locking eyes. His breath hitches, and he squeals, hiding his face. "Yah! Why are you looking at me like that?!" But later, when he’s really lost in the pleasure, he might return the gaze—just for a second.

[yuusishi]

Could I request headcanons of Ace, Silver, and Lilia being called their partner's whole universe?

. . . universe in my hands

pairings : Ace Trappola , Silver , Lilia Vanrouge

genre : fluff

cws/tws : none

a/n : struggling with extreme fatigue and a possible food poisoning with a side of a lung infection rn but we’re fighting we’re thriving. I also wrote this while dazed as fuck in a mall so if some things sound weird it’s cuz of that 🔥🔥

ACE TRAPPOLA !!

oh he’s teasing you for that that’s for sure.

“I’m your whole universe, huh? When did ya get all sappy 🤥” then proceeding to pinch your cheeks.

He’s giggling kicking his feet in his dorm room after he comes back (Deuce snitched), kicked off his shoes and landed face first into a pillow and everything like a loser.

Honestly made him feel so giddy but definitely didn’t show you while you were in front of him.

He wishes he had the shamelessness to declare his love upfront like you do, but he probably needs a couple more months to get the bravery to do that.

But don’t be discouraged! If you think he’s your universe then you’re whatever’s beyond it to him, he just won’t admit it.

SILVER !!

hashtag nonchalant (he was half awake when you told him)

on a serious note, he’d think it’s so cute and say you’re his universe too, even kissing you on the cheek after.

it would probably start a small phase where he would take pictures of the random animals that visit him throughout the day and say that it’s you

“This squirrel looks like you” “how so” “it’s cute”

unexpectedly rizzful (I’m sorry)

he still thinks about it every few hours and gets caught smiling and blushing slightly by the other diasomnia students, causing them to wonder what you did this time for Silver to be so lovesick.

LILIA VANROUGE !!

Contrary to popular belief, he’s probably stunned for a second or two!! He wasn’t big on romance back then and rarely ever got any romantic attention, so this would def surprise him a bit.

(We’re obviously making whatever Maleanor, Lilia, and Revan were an exception)

But once he’s recovered ooo prepare for the flirting of a lifetime, all genuine and coming from the very core of his heart of course.

He knows it’s a line that’s been said for millennia and that you weren’t the first to say it, but the words “you’re my entire universe, Lilia” said lovingly by you gave him butterflies in a way he thought he was too old for.

He’s not a shy person, so don’t expect him to not be dishing out a couple kisses and hugs for saying that.

[mourn-and-watch]

no no i'm actually not done with timebomb/jayvik parallels. bear with me for a minute

the contrast between the everybody lives timeline ekko and heimerdinger ended up in and jayce's post-apocalyptic wasteland timeline is pretty funny indeed, but i love that juxtaposition because these practically opposite realities serve the same purpose for ekko and jayce. they solidify their goals and, by extension, their willingness to save the person they love.

ekko gets to see the world where his community is thriving; where his childhood friend/crush is loved and happy and enjoys her life in ways the version he knew couldn't. but he learns that this powder is not a complete stranger. this powder is just as talented as jinx, just as brilliant and quirky and so familiar despite all the differences. it has to mean that in his timeline, the girl he knew is still here. she was always there. nothing that has happened to her during these years managed to kill her. ekko would never left his people behind, but he also won't leave jinx: he's the only one who gets through to her and convinces her to do the right thing, even though she might think there's no way for her to be a good person whose life is worth something. ekko doesn't simply believes it's not true. he knows it for a fact.

jayce gets to see the world where viktor won; there's nothing besides corruption, abominations and death, and that's the fate that awaits jayce's timeline if he doesn't succeed. viktor caused all of this, but he's also the one that leads him to the top of piltover. he's the one who gives him a key to salvation, and it is as simple as it is intricate: it's jayce himself. this viktor is a lonely god trapped in a perfect hell he created and it took him ages to realize his mistake — and he believes jayce is the only person who can stop him before it's too late. in all outcomes, it's him. it is as much as a statement of a cosmic powerful being as a belief of a dear friend. jayce is not even certain there's something left of viktor in his timeline, but he has to be. he won't fail. it's a promise he keeps.

it is about saving the world, but also about saving someone very dear to you. someone who is so lost in their own faults and mistakes they forgot they're not beyond salvation, but they don't know you won't save the world without saving them

[jellyvibes710]

I dunno what to really say here :p

Here be the character sheets I made for this series, enjoy!

PARASITE COMIC HERE (a fan comic for @abbeyofcyn kraang infection au read it if you haven't yet! :D)

This is all their outfits throughout the series, it's a short series so there isn't a whole lot haha

Unfortunately for Raphs and Donnies gif I had to do a worse quality because the original gifs were too big and I can only add one video, may their high resolution rest in peace

Splinter, April, Casey JR [UNAVAILABLE] soon

Kraang infected characters [UNAVAILABLE]

[CLASSIFIED INFORMATION]

Himato Leonardo, Age 18

××-××-××

Self modified shell and workings of the parasite may be too gruesome for certain groups, withholding highly sensitive documentary will result in the reader being rendered MISSING due to [REDACTED]

Upon contact of receiving the parasite the host [Leonardo] began experiencing pain beyond reasoning, the speed of the parasite reaching the hosts mind was remarkable. Taking only approximately 3.6 seconds for the parasite to reach the Frontal Lobes as well as parts of the Occipital Lobe, Parietal Lobe and Limbic System resulting in host going Farel, attacking any other potential hosts within range. Although, upon sudden high temperatures from the family ninpo due to [REDACTED] the parasite noticeably retreated to the hosts shell by accessing the cerebellum then traveling down through the brainstem and spinal cord.

Compared to previous host [Donatello], access to the current host[yours truly] sparked an interesting difference. While the previous host acted [REDACTED], the parasite acts more violently to its current host, spreading across the inside of the shell and swelling, applying roughly 650-660 pounds of force to the shell. Surpassing the pressure it'd take to crush a regular turtle shell, hypothesis states due to mutation our shells are more flexible than average, allowing us to twist and bend in ways that'd be unnatural/harmful to our unmutated counterparts, but causing extreme pain and discomfort for the host, applying pressure not only to the shell but to the internal organs as well. Putting the subject life at high risk, if not acted upon [REDACTED] resulting in life threatening damage and spread of the parasite to any nearby victims.

Immediate surgical action required.

_______________________________________

My additional research collected continues to impress my original beliefs.

With new additions added, the host has not only managed to contain the parasite but even weaponize it.

Self made cracks aided in the surgical process as well as preventing the parasite from destroying the shell worse than it has, leaving a peace of the shell in its original position assistance in leveraging the parasite, it also assist in the closing mechanisms added to the inners of the shell. Additional spinal support was added to prevent risks from having far more flexibly than the current host previously was capable of, as well as aiding in preventing the parasite from spreading and causing more problems with the use of ninpo running through the mechanical parts.

It hurts.

Due to the tech needing a constant flow of ninpo to prevent system failure and allowing the parasite to spread, ninpo will be very limited if in events of a battle. Unfortunately, constant access to regular temperatures leads to flu like symptoms, allowing the parasite to thrive and spread despite the ninpo mechanisms preventing it from swelling, acting more as damage control. The hosts shell is too damaged to be submerged, milkshakes and ice will have to assist in the prevention of spread.

Along in aiding with parasite control, the tech attached to the spine (somehow separated from the shell and is confined within the flesh of the parasite, as if it was carefully peeled off. Remarkably no damage found to anything vital.) Have flexible material that wrap around the bone and were very careful surgically attached to the spinal nerve, spinal cord and vertebrae to act as support and to prevent accidental damage, Acting as a theoretical shell in the meantime.

Flexible but strong material was bolted in along the inside of the host shell, acting as some kind of prosthetic allowing the host to open and close the shell at will. Still causes discomfort unfortunately.

More in depth description shall be provided [REDACTED]

Overall this surgery took approximately 12 hours. Rest is required.

_______________________________________

The log has ended, but pieces can still be found from here out.

Perhaps then you may have the full story

As much as I wanna go more into depth with these details unfortunately it'll risk spoiling parts of the story I'm really looking forward to working on

Till next time! ^-^=

(Sorry if something doesn't make sense or I spelled something wrong, I decided to write this while I'm pretty much half asleep ☠️)