#our politicians need humbling

[swagyna]

watching solar videos makes me feel full of a sickly and sweet dread. really just drives home the point that all of our squabbling here is a waste.

[cheriecelestial]

Jacob Black's Self Saving System Pt.1

disclaimer *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧ crack.swearing.not proofread

synopsis *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧ Jason, a self-proclaimed no. 1 Stephenie Meyer hater, finds himself unexpectedly transmigrated into the very novel he disdained. Following this ironic twist of fate, he is now tasked with the challenge of creating a better version of the story himself.

a/n *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧ Inspired from @duckysprouts ’s series. It’s so good ⁉️‼️. If you haven’t seen it already, PLEASE GO CHECK IT OUT. Like finally svsss content that isn’t shizun sphinx cats or binghe skin creature abomination. Art and concept so fresh it made my heart cry with joy and pulled me out of my three-month long writing slump. So, I humbly present this as an offering to our lord and savior, Ducky. Comment, Reblog and Like (∩˃o˂∩)♡

Twilight by Stephanie Meyer was a modern classic in its renaissance era with a large cult that loved to hate it. Set in a place with relentless rain, mist shrouded forest and an ethereal light piercing the gloom — the light being the one of only Edward Cullen. Though the statement is subject to fan bias — he was a man, rather sparkly vampire, who somehow managed to be both irresistible and perpetually constipated. 

Nonetheless, his charms never overshadowed the stellar performance of our female lead, Isabella Marie Swan— better known as Bella — a teenager who gained worldwide fame for having a personality less vibrant than a wet cabbage. Together, they navigated the perilous world of teenage angst, vampire baseball, millenia old racist italian politicians and werewolves with a curious t-shirt allergy, all in an impressively monotone palette.

It was a heartwarming tale that began with awkward stares, cryptic yet nauseatingly clichéd conversations and Bella’s inexplicable attraction to danger, making the romance as thrilling as it was perplexing. Meanwhile, the supporting cast of her high school friends, each with their own irrelevant quirks and subplots, served as convenient plot devices — appearing and disappearing at the whim of the author.

And as if her love life wasn’t tumultuous enough, Bella befriended Jacob Black. A werewolf who, unsurprisingly, hated all things vampire and Edward Cullen in particular. Between Edward’s brooding, Jacob’s abs and Bella’s classic damsel-in-distress antics that made poor Elena Gilbert seem unremarkable by comparison — the story unfolded with the subtlety of a glitter bomb and reached unprecedented heights of melodrama. Something that helped the tale become a global phenomenon, demonstrating that improbable love stories can indeed shine in their own sparkly “skin-of-a-killer” fashion.

“This has to be the worst piece of literature I’ve ever read in my life.” Those were strong words from a man who spent years and at least six hundred dollars collecting softbacks and hardbacks in every special and limited edition the series offered. Jason Black was an anti-fan who lived to scoff at the literary mediocrities of authors who, after taking one look at their drafts, believed they deserved to be released into the world as actual literature. Such people, often inspired by similar works, spawned their own deranged narratives, subsequently contaminating the sanctity of literature. 

In layman’s terms, Jason was a fervent hater of the highest order. He had a long list of things he despised about the series, yet curiously, re-watching the movies and re-reading the books always found its way to the top of his to-do list every other weekend. But do not get him wrong, not once did he say anything in favour of the series. Jason simply considered it one of those brain-rotting pieces that needed to be experienced to truly appreciate the beauty of classics like Emily Brontë and Jane Austen.

_username_1 : Bruh stfu. You’re probably an unemployed loner with nothing better to do in life than to be a keyboard warrior.  

_username_2 : then idk buddy don’t read it ? It’s not that hard. 

Jason huffed at the screen crossily, his fingers dancing over the keyboard unsure of what to type next. With a sigh, he stretched his arms as if preparing for battle. And a battle it was — being an anti-fan required more dedication, practice and patience than being a regular fan. What he didn’t realize was that he had knocked a water bottle off the table onto the frayed cord of his PC.

He couldn't fathom why people defended it as if their lives depended on it. If he ever met Stephenie Meyer, Jason would have a long talk with her about the plot—or rather, the lack thereof. With the number of plot holes in the books, they could qualify as swiss cheese. The inconsistencies were glaring: if sunlight made them sparkle, wouldn't they still sparkle during the day, just less brilliantly ? How did Jasper and Alice not overhear the phone call despite having super-hearing ? Why did Jasper go ballistic over a papercut when he attended a school where students would get paper cuts and scrapes all the time ? Why were vampires and werewolves the only species to exist ? And why was Bella, or more specifically her blood, so exceptional ? Did she perhaps descend from a line of flavourful blood havers or was it due to her mother's partial albinism ?

Was she special because she was the female lead, or was she the female lead because she was special ? There were so many unanswered questions and half-assed excuses for the events in the story that most explanations came from clever fans trying to make sense of things the author clearly put no effort into planning or thinking through. These questions had plagued him since he first read the series, and the lack of satisfying answers only fueled his irritation. So much so that Jason was embarrassed for the author. Regardless, he didn’t like the direction this conversation was going so he did what any intelligent person would do, i.e., spew hate comments and log off. 

edward_my_bbg : Dumbfuck novel, Dumbfuck author 

And as if on cue, a new notification popped up, dragging him back into the fray. It was another comment, this time mocking his apparent obsession with the series he claimed to hate. Jason’s face flushed with irritation as he furiously typed a retort, but before he could hit send, his screen flickered and went black. 

He looked down and realized the water bottle he had knocked over had short-circuited his PC. With a groan, Jason leaned back in his chair, staring at the dark screen. It seemed the universe had decided to give him a break from his self-imposed battle. His hand fumbled in the dark for the plug only to feel water on the surface. The sharp pain and crackle of electricity were the last things he knew before he plunged headfirst into endless darkness.

[Activation Code:「Dumbfuck Author, Dumbfuck Novel」 ]

[System activated] 

[Pairing command successful]

“What system ?” Jason asked out loud into the void even though he knew that it was most likely a figment of his imagination. He hadn’t expected to receive a reply however he did receive one much to his surprise. 

[Welcome to the system. During the opening of the 「you can you up」system currently in its development phase, we wish to provide you with the best experience. It is our sincere hope that during the process, you will achieve what you have stated: to transform a piece of stupid writing in accordance with your wishes into a high-end, expansive, and classic work. We wish you happiness.]

Jason blinked, trying to make sense of the message. He glanced around the dim room, half-expecting to see some kind of holographic interface or futuristic display but there was nothing. Just the voice in his head and the darkness. “What the hell is this ?” he muttered, feeling a mix of confusion and curiosity.

[You have been selected to participate in the beta phase of the 「you can you up」 system. Your task is to improve the story you despise, turning it into a masterpiece. All resources and guidance will be provided to you. Do you accept this challenge ?]

Jason hesitated, the situation seemed absurd, yet a part of him was intrigued. As he sat in silence, a thought occurred to him—what if he could actually fix all the plot holes that drove him up a wall ? Maybe this was his chance to prove he could do better. But then, the possibility of all of this being real seemed too slim. How did he get here ? What happened to him after the electric shock? Was he dying, or was he already dead ? "And if I don't accept ?" he asked, uncertainty and fear bleeding into his voice despite his attempt at maintaining his composure. The system responded quickly in the same mechanical tone as before.

[Your connection between your former body and soul was severed before the initiation of the program. If you choose not to accept, you will be returned to your previous reality with no changes made. This opportunity is unique and will not be offered again.]

“Severed from my body ? Wait— doesn’t that mean I’ll die if I don’t accept ?” Jason's question hung in the air, met with nothing but silence from the system. The lack of response only confirmed his fear.

The system's silence was deafening, seemingly pressing him to make a decision. Realizing he had little choice, Jason took a deep breath. “Fine, I accept,” he said, trying to sound more confident than he felt. How bad could it possibly be ? 

[Command acknowledged. Initializing story rewrite mode.]

The void around him began to shift and wrap. Till now he felt as though he was floating with no sensation except the system’s sound. His reality dissolved into swirling colours and Jason felt himself being pulled into a vortex. When the chaos settled, he heard a man’s voice call out to him. Unlike the clinical tone of system, this voice felt comforting and personal. He could feel tender warmth run through him however he couldn’t quite figure out what the voice was saying. 

“Son ? Can you hear me ?” 

“Dad ?” Jason murmured involuntarily, his voice hoarse as if he had just woken up from a long sleep. The gravel in the voice reminded him of the joys of his childhood when his dad was still — wait a second. Who the hell is that ?

His eyes struggled to focus as his eyelids fluttered a few times. Eventually, he was able to make out his surroundings. The first thing he noticed was the ceiling. Unlike the damp ceiling of his old apartment with its peeling plaster and harsh lighting, this one had old glow-in-the-dark moon and star stickers. It wasn’t familiar, but it seemed oddly comforting, like he had known it all his life. He slowly turned his head and saw a middle-aged man sitting on a wheelchair beside him with concern clouding his face. The man's russet complexion was lined with wrinkles yet his hair was long and lustrous.

“Where am I ?” 

“You’re at home. You’ve been asleep for so long, it’s alright if you’re confused. Take your time son.” The man he called ‘dad’ answered sincerely.

Jason’s mind raced as he tried to piece together what had happened. The familiarity of the room and the comforting presence of the man didn’t align with the reality he remembered. In that moment, everything came back to him—his death, the void, the system, everything. Jason went into what could only be described as psychological shock. His brain went on autopilot.

The man reached out to grab Jason’s hand, but Jason flinched and pulled away. Slivers of hurt flashed in the old man’s eyes as he slowly withdrew his hand. Jason hadn’t meant to react so harshly, but the information dump combined with the influx of sensory input, he was simply too overwhelmed to cope.

“I-I think i need some space. Do you mind ?” Jason spoke each word carefully, then added, “...dad,” feeling strangely guilty for hurting his feelings. The old man nodded slowly and wheeled himself out of the room. As soon as he was gone, Jason jumped out of bed and ran to the mirror. "Who the FUCK is this?"

Staring back at him was a boy, fifteen or sixteen, with the same russet skin as the old man and glossy black hair that looked like it belonged in a shampoo commercial. Recognizing the features, Jason knew this could only be one person.

 [System activation successful ! Binding your role as : Jacob Black]

[System : Booting Up]

Jason, now Jacob Black, stared at his reflection in disbelief. The reality of his situation hit him like a shit ton of bricks. He brought his fist to his mouth and sobbed into it, and here he thought college was devastating. “But I’m Team Edward,” he choked out between sobs. “That’s so fucked up.”

[Thank you for initiating the execution of the system. You are not bound with the account ‘Jacob Black’. All resources and guidance will be provided to you in due time. Initial B points : 100]

Jason—Jacob—felt a rush of confusion and frustration. “Now what the hell are B points ?!” he yelled, his voice reverberating off the walls of the unfamiliar room. The loudness of his own voice startled him, making him realize just how different everything felt in this new body.

[As the plot progresses, a number of opportunities to gain more points will be available. Please make sure your B points are not lower than 0. Otherwise, the system will automatically impose penalties.]

He stumbled back from the mirror, running a hand through his hair, which was definitely longer and thicker than he remembered. He could feel the strength in his limbs, the vitality of youth coursing through him. Yet, despite the physical vigor, his mind was in turmoil. He had transmigrated into the very novel he hated; the universe always seemed to have a field day when it came to ruining his life. Jacob looked around the room that was littered with the relics of a life he had to now live — a cozy bed with rumpled sheets, a desk cluttered with schoolbooks and posters of motorcycles, bands and scenic landscapes on the walls.

“Um, so is Bella here ?” Jacob asked, scarfing down the bacon his dad made for him. Despite stressing over the role he was supposed to play in the story, he quickly adapted to his new life. He had a family, a house to live in, no worries about finding employment, no bills or taxes, a social life—or at least he assumed he had one—and, most importantly, no backaches. In hindsight, this might not be all that bad.

“Oh, you remember that ? Charlie said she’s arriving in a couple of days,” his dad, Billy, replied. Jacob felt a strange mix of anticipation and relief. Unlike most unfortunate transmigratees, he had no death flags to worry about, so he could sit back and watch Bella and Edward fall in love without “Jacob” interrupting them. Maybe he could even make things easier for Bella by acting like the perfect wingman. Who cared about making a better story anyway ? And once he had seen his OTP together, he could take his ticket out of town after the wedding and never return so that he could avoid the whole Renesmee business because some fates are worse than death.

[WARNING: Your plan is extremely dangerous and constitutes a violation. Please do not attempt it, or the system will impose strict penalties.]

Jacob choked on his water as the sudden warning window popped up in front of him. For a moment, he was so immersed in the domestic comfort of his new life that he almost forgot about the cursed system. His father looked at him with concern.

“Water went down the wrong pipe, that’s all. Nothing to worry about,” Jacob said awkwardly, trying to reassure his father. So you can read minds now ? He internally taunted the system.

[It is a feature designed to ensure maximum support for the user.]

“That’s bullshit. Also, what do you mean by violation ?” Jacob asked. Does this system really have no respect for privacy ? If he didn’t know better, he’d think it was some kind of Zuckerberg’s meta gimmick.

[You are currently at the beginning stage. OOC function freeze is activated. You must complete the beginning stage before any functions can be unlocked. If you perform any actions against the original ‘Jacob Black’ role before the functions are unfrozen, a certain number of B points will be deducted.]

Given his extensive time spent on the internet, Jacob was well aware of what OOC meant, and he knew it wasn’t a good sign. OOC stood for Out Of Character, referring to actions taken by a role that deviated from how the character was originally written.

“FUCK OFF. I’m an adult. I already finished my degree and Bella is like, a baby. And you can forget the whole Renesmee shit too. Bella belongs with Edward and and I have no intention of pursuing either her or her future daughter. So back off, you creep of a system.”

[WARNING: The system is issuing another alert. If your B points fall below 0, you will incur a penalty, which involves being automatically transported back to your original world.]

“You know, threatening me with death is really getting old,” Jacob stared at the warning message with his anger mounting. It felt like the system was encroaching on every aspect of his new life, imposing rules and restrictions without offering any clarity or real support.

He took a deep breath, trying to push past his irritation. There was no point in arguing with an automated system, especially one that clearly had its own agenda. Jacob decided to focus on what he could control. He needed to immerse himself in his role as Jacob Black and complete the introductory stage without attracting undue attention. The system’s warnings might be annoying, but he couldn’t let them derail his efforts to adapt to his new life.

As he finished his breakfast, Jacob glanced around the house. It was warm and welcoming, albeit a little messy, which was understandable. He and his dad were the only ones living there and according to his dad, he had been inexplicably unconscious for almost a week. Keeping the house tidy wasn't exactly a priority for a man worried sick about his son.

“Thanks for breakfast… Dad,” Jacob said, still not used to the idea of having a father again. There was the whole issue of stealing the real “Jacob” ’s life, dealing with imposter syndrome, and the guilt of replacing the memory of his own father by calling this old man his dad. But that was an existential crisis he chose not to mull over at the moment, especially on the precipice of the story's start. Call him selfish, but he preferred to focus on his blessings.

“I’ll go take a walk. I’ve been asleep for a while, so I need to… uh, stretch my legs,” Jacob said awkwardly, hoping Billy wouldn’t notice anything strange about his behavior.

“Sure thing, son. Also grab some red meat from the store for dinner. A growing kid like you needs that protein. And buy yourself something nice with the leftover money,” Billy replied, taking out his wallet and handing him some cash.

Jacob stared at the man in awe. As a kid who had bounced around the foster system after his dad died, he was used to being scorned and neglected. This might be part of the reason why he had become a social recluse, spending his time bashing bad literature and authors online. To him, Billy Black was the closest thing he had ever seen to an angel.

Jacob took the money, still feeling a bit dazed. “Thanks, Dad,” he managed to say, pocketing the cash. The air filling his lungs was much fresher than the pollution-riddled air of the city he used to live in. Nature seemed a lot nicer than he remembered. So, here's a lesson for the kids—don’t wait until you die and get transmigrated into a novel you hate to understand the importance of getting outside and appreciating nature. In short, go touch some fucking grass before it’s too late.

Almost as if by instinct he found himself at La Push beach. He wandered through the familiar yet new surroundings, trying to piece together his plan. If he was going to be stuck in this world, he might as well make the best of it. He thought about the story and mentally reviewed his plan. He would stay under the radar, be friendly but unobtrusive and focus on blending in with the locals. If he played his cards right, he might just manage to navigate this strange new life without getting points deducted by the system’s restrictions.

After strolling along the shore for a while, Jacob found a rock to sit on and watch the ocean. It was a stark contrast to the urban jungle he was accustomed to, this place was serene and almost idyllic.

“Ayo, is that Jacob ? Hey, Jake !” he heard someone call out. A moment later, a boy close to his age ran up to him, followed by one more. “Um, hey guys. How’s it... going ?” Socializing wasn’t one of Jacob’s strong suits; in fact, it was the exact opposite of the skill he had meticulously avoided developing over the years.

“Man, the whole crew was freaking out about you. You were out cold for a week and for no reason !” One thing Jacob appreciated about the system was the introduction tags above each character’s head. The boy speaking was named Quil, his cousin from the Quileute tribe. He knew these interactions were unavoidable, given their significance to his new role in the plot.

“Well, I got better ?” Jacob attempted a witty quip but cringed at how poorly it landed. To his surprise, the two boys just laughed. “I’m just glad you’re okay. Stop by Sam’s sometime; he’s been asking about you,” Embry said, giving Jacob a friendly slap on the shoulder.

“Wait Sam ? Right of course. Duh. Sam’s place. Got it.” Jacob replied, blinking in confusion for a moment. Sam Uley was the Alpha—or at least the to-be Alpha—of the pack Jacob was supposed to join during New Moon.

[Mild OOC warning]

“Ay man, you feeling okay ?” Embry asked again, noticing Jacob’s hesitation. Jacob froze, Embry Call was the real Jacob’s best friend and if he figured out that Jason wasn’t really Jacob, it would spell massive trouble for him.

Jacob forced a smile. “Uh, yeah. I just—” He quickly tried to think of something. What would Jacob Black say in this situation ? What does he do to feel better ? He racked his brain for answers, knowing he needed to play the part convincingly, at least till he found a way to unfreeze the OOC function.

Go bother Bella ? a small voice suggested. Bella’s not here yet dumbass, another voice countered sharply. After years of social isolation, Jason’s inner dialogue had evolved to the point where he could have entire discussions with himself. No, he wasn’t schizophrenic.

“—I was just going to grab some red meat to chow on and uh y’know, work on my bike,” he finished, hoping his voice didn’t betray his nerves.

Embry and Quil exchanged a knowing look, which made Jacob's anxiety spike only to burst into laughter. “Classic Jake. At this rate, you might end up marrying your bike,” Quil teased and Jacob laughed along, though he desperately wanted to crawl into a hole and never come out again.

“Just take it easy, yeah ? We don’t want you passing out on us again. By the way, there's a sale at the store on the other side of town,” Embry squeezed Jacob’s shoulder reassuringly again. The familiarity they seemed to share with him was comforting, even if he felt like an imposter. He knew he had to get up to speed quickly if he wanted to maintain this facade. They soon parted ways and Jacob headed towards the store.

The store lady was overly enthusiastic upon seeing Jacob. He couldn’t tell if it was because of his face or the fact that he was a regular. As Jason, he had always been below average in looks and physique. Whereas, by the virtue of being the second male lead of a popular teenage romance novel, Jacob Black was undeniably attractive. With his deep-set dark eyes, prominent cheekbones, and beautiful long hair, he looked like someone Jason would have envied. Maybe he could try his hand at modeling once the story ended, because there was no way he was putting himself through college again.

And as unpredictable as the weather of Forks was, it began to rain. Normally, Jason would wait it out and then go but now that he as in Jacob’s body, he thought to test his body’s limits. Like c’mon a little drizzle isn’t going to hurt a big strong werewolf alpha-to-be. He stepped out into the rain, feeling the cool droplets on his skin. It was refreshing, almost invigorating. Jacob’s body seemed to handle the cold and wet far better than Jason’s ever did. As he made his way back the store, he noticed people giving him friendly nods and waves. It felt strange to be acknowledged so warmly, a stark contrast to the anonymity he was used to.

At the red light he stopped, waiting for it to turn green. Sure, there were no cars around and he could have just walked, but road rules were no joke. He liked this life too much to risk having it taken away by truck-kun. “Hey system, is double isekai a thing?” he asked. The system didn’t reply, so that was probably a no.

Jacob glanced to his side and saw a person standing under a large black umbrella. A strong sweet scent pricked his nose. How strong does this guy’s cologne have to be to reach me even with the rain ? There was a name tag hovering above the person’s head, but it was obscured by the umbrella, as was his face. One thing he had learned was that only people relevant to the story had name tags over their heads, which meant this person was a character in the story. He looked down at the stranger’s hand—it looked like porcelain.

Jacob felt a sense of foreboding, creeping up his veins. His instincts were on high alert, telling him that this stranger was no ordinary person. The rain began to pour harder, each drop bouncing off the asphalt with increasing intensity.

The person probably noticed Jacob staring and as he did, the umbrella tilted slightly, revealing a glimpse of a pale, almost ethereal face with piercing golden eyes. The moment their gazes met, Jacob was momentarily blinded by a brilliant golden aura radiating from the name tag above the person’s head.

[Edward Cullen]

Jacob’s heart skipped a beat. Of course, it had to be Edward. What were the odds of encountering your favorite character on the very first day of your new life ? He felt his knees weaken. Despite the dim lighting and gloomy setting, Edward was undeniably striking. The rain seemed to fall more slowly around him, as if even the weather was reluctant to mar his flawlessness . His tousled bronze hair framed his face perfectly and Jacob felt an inexplicable urge to reach out and touch it. Despite all his criticisms of the novel, Edward had always held a special place in his heart for reasons Jacob couldn’t quite explain.

Damn, this mf looks anemic as hell. Maybe I should feed him. It was a half-serious thought, borne from both concern and his internal struggle to reconcile his feelings towards the character with the reality of his situation.

[OOC WARNING! OOC WARNING!]

[Edward Cullen is your enemy.]

“Fuck off, he’s my babygirl,”Jacob shot a mental retort at the system in exasperation and a streak of protectiveness. The system’s declaration that Edward was an enemy wasn’t misplaced given Jacob’s role in the novel but that didn’t mean it wasn’t at odds with his feelings.

Edward had always been his favorite character, a source of fascination and admiration. This was supposed to be his chance to explore and perhaps even improve upon the narrative, not to be embroiled in conflict with a character he held dear.

Jacob didn't even notice when the light turned green and Edward started walking away, his steps soundless on the wet pavement. Acting on impulse or perhaps some hidden desire, Jacob found himself walking towards Edward and grabbing his elbow, accidentally knocking his umbrella aside. Edward stopped and turned to him as the rain continued to soak them both. His gaze was like a sharp, unyielding beam of light, cutting through the rain. His eyes, an unusual shade of golden amber, held a depth that seemed to pierce directly into Jacob's soul, scrutinizing every hidden corner of his being.

[OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC! OOC!]

[EDWARD CULLEN IS YOUR ENEMY]

I’m so stupid — I forgot completely. Jacob and Edward haven’t met yet. Maybe… maybe I can salvage this ? Be a dick and still be nice ? He definitely didn’t want to end up on Edward’s bad side, nor did he want to break the system’s rules. Annoying as it was, the system was what kept him alive. Though he’d never say it out loud, he was terrified at the thought of dying, again. The system’s constant reminders of their supposed enmity were starting to grate on him, but he couldn’t afford to make more mistakes. What was a man to do when every choice seemed fraught with peril ?

Ack — he’s staring. Can he hear my thoughts ? I hope not. He and Bella meet soon, if I remember correctly so— Jacob’s anxiety skyrocketed under the weight of that gaze. His heart pounded in his chest, each beat drumming in his ears. A tight knot of dread twisted in his stomach and whether it was the rain or not, he could feel cold sweat forming on his palms. He needed to say something—anything—that wouldn’t completely derail the plot but also wouldn’t make Edward hate him from the start, even if it was inevitable.

“Oh uh — my bad, dude. I just thought you looked kinda sick so I thought — I mean,” Jacob scrambled for an explanation, forcing a nonchalant tone as he released Edward’s elbow. He felt like a small animal trapped in the headlights of an oncoming car, desperately searching for a way to escape unscathed.

“—Uh, here.” He shoved the raw steak he had just bought into Edward’s arms. The system fell silent for a moment, as stunned by his actions as Jacob was. The sound of the rain was almost deafening as awkward silence stretched between them. Edward looked down at the raw steak in his hands, confusion and surprise painting his features.

Without waiting for a reply, Jacob quickly turned on his heel and hurried away, his footsteps splashing through the rain-soaked pavement. “Later ! Get that iron up and be the lady killer you were born to be !” he called over his shoulder. After walking a few metres, he paused briefly and added,“ And seriously lay off the sauvage man !”

As he put more distance between them, Jacob’s thoughts began to spiral. What had he just done ? Did Edward think he was completely nuts ? Or worse, could Edward have read his thoughts and seen through his facade ? Jacob shuddered at the possibility.

[Why did you do that ?]

“I don’t know okay !? I thought it’d help with looking y’know less dead when he meets Bella.” He shrugged. Explaining himself to the system felt pointless considering it was neither his parent nor his babysitter. The system remained silent, as if considering his response, Jacob rolled his eyes.

[OOC ! -20 B points ↓ ↓ ↓]

“Oh come on !”

“Still staring at that bag of steak, Ed ?” The pixie-haired woman leaned over her brother’s shoulder, teasing him.

“Go away, Alice,” Edward muttered, his gaze still locked on the steak as if it held some profound answers of the universe. His fingers occasionally running over the plastic, making the blood inside to squelch against the surface.

“Seriously what’s up with you ?” Alice frowned, dropping the banter. Ever since Edward had returned, he’d been fixated on this bag of steak that suspiciously smelled like wet dog. What was even more peculiar was the fact that she hadn’t had any visions of this event. Normally, Alice caught glimpses of all the interesting things happening with her family throughout the day but she had no clue how Edward had ended up with that steak. And from the look on his face, Edward didn’t look like he was divulging anything either.

“Nothing just… trying to figure someone out.” Edward sighed. Alice was his favorite family member, and he seldom told her off but this was something he couldn’t even make sense of himself. If he told Alice, she’d likely blow the whole thing out of proportion. But despite everything, one question kept lingering in his mind.

Who was that man ?

A.n - should I make this into a series ? If yes please lemme know if you want to be added to the taglist.

[vyorei]

We've been furious here on the island regarding almost all the politicians leaving to pander to a genocidal administration.

I humbly request that when you see those fools shaming us abroad to remember that they have expressly ignored the will of the people. We marched in our hundreds of thousands for weeks and still they ignore our every request.

Ireland stands with Palestine always, those stooges from the Dáil do not represent us and will be removed in the upcoming General Election. They needed their last free holiday on the taxpayer given they'll never have power again.

If you are to engage in the festivities this weekend I request you utilise the black shamrock, and not the green. That is what we're doing here.

Saoirse don Phalaistín. 🇵🇸✊🇮🇪

[linalina-universe]

I've been praying on this daily. Transgender Christian converts.

Edit: While I do talk about Orthodoxy in this post. I am part of the Episcopal church. I posted this while I was on a journey of faith and It's had it's ups and downs. Please find the church you feel most comfortable in. I've been asking some of the saints, Holy Theotokos, and Jesus our Lord. As well as talking to my Guardian angel as I can. To help Bring my transgender eunuch siblings around the world to Faith in Jesus. Seeing all of the LGBT Christian Blogs recently on Tumblr is making me so Glad. God is Good. God Cares about us. Even if there are teachers in the church who condemn us for being different. Seek Reconciliation, Repentance. Learn to Forgive one another. Learn to Love one another. The path towards Jesus isn't easy. Much learning and Discernment it's a LONG ROAD. But keep learning about Jesus. Don't settle for less, but find a place to plant your roots. If you want to really get into the thick of it learn about Orthodoxy. But it takes time for us to get where we need to be. I do believe God listens to all of His Children though. The Holy spirit is everywhere. I would never judge whether or not a person is damned or saved due to what church they go to. That's up to Jesus, he is the judge. But come as you are. Never let a Church teacher hold Jesus over you do not conform to the whims of man as we are not of this world. Only Conform to the Whims of Jesus. Learn to be humble in life, Obedient to Jesus. Learn about humility. Realize no one person on this earth is any better than another. True humility is a virtue. It takes time to cultivate. We are imperfect. Learn LGBT History, ancient history, learn about eunuchs and Queer Saints. qspirit.net, But realize that many of these things are unkown without a time machine. Be sound in wisdom of our ancestors. Do not be defensive all the time though. Learn when to talk, listen to the silence. Do not let hate, and the machinations of this world such as political ideologies, capitalism control your life. We need money to work in this world. But money and possessions are temporary while Jesus and God are eternal. Pray for the Rich kings and politicians who persecute us pray that they seek Jesus. "It is better to Light a candle than to Curse the Darkness." Do not let the Darkness of media news overtake you. Pray for people around the world suffering. Count your blessings. Realize just how good you might have it. I recommend you learn about the Orthodox Saints of Alaska if you want to learn about actual anti-colonialist Christians. The Saints are wonderful examples of ideal Christian lives. I recommend Trisagion Films on youtube to learn about the saints. While I affirm LGBT relationships and see true Joy in them. I know unless Heaven and Earth are moved. The Orthodox/Romans will never Affirm them. I recommend merely Getting Married under the Law of the Land and then showing up at church. Have a celebration an an episcopal church I love the episcopal angelicans it's a safe respite for us queer Christians. I wish that LGBT marriages had been affirmed decades ago, then maybe some of the self destructive generational trauma we see in the queer community wouldn't exist. But we are a persecuted class and either way people dislike us. I hope someday the Orthodox have church mothers. We need women for the women and girls in the church to confide in. We need equal representation. I understand if not everyone agrees with me. But I love Jesus. I hope that being his servant like the court eunuchs of ancient times can be well pleasing to Him. Eunuchs were seen as angelic. His divine eros fulfills my heart in some ways as someone by tradition of ancient orthodoxy should technically be celibate. Live as yourself and know God loves you. Take your medicine and heal. He will never Give up on you. Art By Devlev on Deviantart. Please support them. They Draw Beautiful Queer art.

[nterini]

The Leftover Kids in ONLY FRIENDS

A character analysis of Boston and Ray Ep. 6

This episode reveals a bit more about Boston’s character, and while it doesn’t justify his actions (because your past doesn’t have to justify all your present decisions, especially in fictional characters) we’re able to better understand his impulse to “humble” others when it seems to him like they’re finding their own way.

We learn that Boston’s mother remarried, and flew to another continent to start her new life. And while I don’t want to make assumptions, something about Boston’s politician father (who calls him only to speak about his campaign and winning over young people) encouraging his son’s impulses to toy with the emotions and bodies of others may have had something to do with it. Boston, time and time again tells Nick that the potential of the public finding his sex tapes (with other men) would be a burden to his father’s career. We don’t know if Boston has come out to his father, but the ultimatum that Boston must graduate or be sent back to New York to live with his mom shows his father’s willingness to get rid of a son that may not fit his public image. Boston is a talented photographer and someone in the demographic he wants to target; why so eager to send him away.

In the next scene, while comforting our favorite crazy lovesick puppy, he tells Nick, that the reason he doesn’t make lasting relationships is because he knows he has to leave anyway (and some more be about how he’d be a better photographer abroad). Maybe it’s because of the pressure he feels from his father, but Boston believes that there’s no place for him permanently anywhere. No one has chosen him for an “unconditional forever love” and no ever one will. He’s had no power over that. If my assumption that Boston’s father already knows of his son’s sexuality, and is slowly freezing him out and that Boston knows this already, Boston’s view of his future in Thailand, one that will always be queer, must be bleak. His own father, a popular candidate elect, does not want him. This loss of control triggers him. We see Boston seek control of potential rejection in the way he pursues his flings. He prefers Nick over all his other flings because he’s confident that Nick will always choose him no matter what selfish things he says. He’s envious of Mew who’s constantly chosen and pure, of the perfect Top who rejected him and has his life together, and of Ray and Sands budding relationship. He believes he’ll be left alone again, so he sabotages externally against anyone’s progress.

It’s what makes his scenes with Ray that much more interesting. Because Ray is just like him, except he sabotages internally. 

We were introduced to Ray’s family background a few episodes back, and the toll it took on him emotionally, physically, and mentally. His mother was a young and talented actress who married rich, and whose light was dimmed in that marriage. And whether it was resentment over her lost career, Post-partum depression and an uncaring husband, or just a worsening addiction that was left untreated, she died alone drowning herself in alcohol. We know that Ray did not receive much affection from his mother and that his father was just as neglectful. Ray has learned to use money to buy emotions, companionship and intimacy. Unfortunately, he seems to be following in both his parents footsteps. 

There is a theory going around that Boston has had a secret unrequited crush on Ray. And while I don’t think there’s a lot of evidence that supports this ship, it’s a plausible theory. However, the way he constantly goes back to Nick when he needs comfort and conversations, other than just straight sex, says the opposite. I think a better conclusion would be that Boston finds comfort in Ray’s lack of growth and misfortune. After all, they’re very similar. Leftover, abandoned, rich kids that were never chosen. I don’t even think he had any ill intention against Mew when he slept with Top or even with Ray. I think deep down he’s secretly comforted by seeing Ray heartbroken. It makes sense that he was triggered when he saw that Ray might have found someone to help him come out of that misery. He doesn’t provoke Mew or Top the way he does Ray. Maybe it’s because Ray doesn’t see how similar they are. Maybe it’s because Top and Mew see right through him. 

Mew’s role in their friendship is also really interesting 🤔. Ep. 7 might give us inside Mew’s thoughts and actions. Is Mew manipulating his rich friends to get his dream career and partner or is it all all a grand plan to help heal the lives of the people he cares about most.

Overall, I love how real the show feels. The discussions of drugs in Thailand’s queer community, of privilege and class struggle, it all feels incredibly genuine. It’s hot and steamy and we’ll written. Like we CAN have all of these things at once! The growth that I see in BL/Queer (the slash is necessary) content gives me hope. Please give the lesbians (AprilNamchueam) more screen time plsssssssss 😩.

(Please excuse any typos and errors.)

[spacedewey]

As our situation had become more complex, Martin's speeches had become simpler and more concrete. As I remember, he spoke very simply that evening on the work of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, what had been done, what was being done, and the enormity of the tasks that lay ahead. But I remember his tone more than his words. He spoke very humbly, as one of many workers, speaking to his co-workers. I think he made everyone in that room feel that whatever they were doing, whatever they could do, was important, was of utmost importance. He did not flatter them -- very subtly, he challenged them, challenged them to live up to their moral obligations. The room was quite remarkable in the most serious sense of that weary phrase, profoundly honored.

And yet -- how striking to compare his tone that night with what had been not many years before! Not many years before, we had all marched on Washington. Something like two hundred and fifty thousand people had come to the nation's capital to petition their government for a redress of grievances. They had come from all over the nation, in every condition, in every conceivable attire, and in all kinds of vehicles. Even a skeptic like myself, with every reason to doubt that the petition would, or could, be heard, or acted on, could not fail to respond to the passion of so many people, gathered together, for that purpose, in that place. Their passion made one forget that a terrified Washington had bolted its doors and fled, that many politicians had been present only because they had been afraid not to be, that John Lewis, then of SNCC, had been forced to tone down his speech because of the insuperable arrogance of a Boston archbishop, that the administration had done everything in its power to prevent the March, even to finding out if I, who had nothing whatever to do with the March as organized, would use my influence to try to prevent it. (I said that such influence as I had, which wasn't much, would certainly not be used against the March, and, perhaps to prove this, I led the March on Washington from the American Church, in Paris, to the American Embassy, and brought back from Paris a scroll bearing about a thousand names. I wonder where it is now.)

In spite of all that one knew, and feared, it was a very stirring day, and one very nearly dared, in spite of all that one knew, to hope -- to hope that the need and the passion of the people, so nakedly and vividly, and with such dignity revealed, would not be, once again, betrayed. (The People's Republic of China had sent a telegram in our support, which was repudiated by Roy Wilkins, who said, in effect, that we would be glad to accept such a telegram on the day that the Chinese were allowed to petition their government for redress of grievances, as we were petitioning ours. I had an uneasy feeling that we might live to hear this boast ring somewhat mockingly in our ears.)

But Martin had been quite moving that day. Marlon [Brando] (carrying a cattle prod, for the purpose of revealing the depravity of the South) and Sidney Poitier and Harry Belafonte, Charlton Heston, and some others of us had been called away to do a Voice of America show for Ed Murrow, and so we watched and listened to Martin on television. All of us were very silent in that room, listening to Martin, feeling the passion of the people flowing up to him and transforming him, transforming us. Martin finished with one hand raised: "Free at last, free at least, praise God Almighty, I'm free at last!" That day, for a moment, it almost seemed that we stood on a height, and could see our inheritance; perhaps we could make the kingdom real, perhaps the beloved community would not forever remain that dream one dreamed in agony. The people quietly dispersed at nightfall, as had been agreed. Sidney Poitier took us out to dinner that night, in a very, very quiet Washington. The people had come to their capitol, had made themselves known, and were gone: no one could any longer doubt that their suffering was real. Ironically enough, after Washington, I eventually went on the road, on a lecture tour which carried me to Hollywood. So I was in Hollywood when, something like two weeks later, my phone rang, and a nearly hysterical, white, female CORE worker told me that a Sunday school in Birmingham had been bombed, and that four young black girls had been blown into eternity. That was the first answer we got to our petition.

The original plans for the March on Washington has been far from polite: the original plan had been to lie down on the airport runways, to block the streets and offices, to immobilize the city completely, and to remain as long as we had to, to force the government to recognize the urgency and the justice of our demands. Malcolm was very caustic about the March on Washington, which he described as a sell-out. I think he was right. Martin, five years later, was five years wearier and five years sadder, and still petitioning. But the impetus was gone, because the people no longer believed in their petitions, no longer believed in their government. The reasoning behind the March on Washington, as it eventually evolved -- or as it was, in Malcolm's words, "diluted" -- was that peaceful assembly would produce the best results. But, five years later, it was very hard to believe that the frontal assault, as planned, on the capitol, could possibly have produced more bloodshed, or more despair. Five years later, it seemed clear that we had merely postponed, and not at all to our advantage, the hour of dreadful reckoning.

Martin and Andrew and I said good night to each other, and promised to meet in New York.

--James Baldwin, from To Be Baptized, one of two essays collected in his book, No Name In The Streets.

[tedwardremus]

⭐

Thanks for requesting a bit of director’s commentary.

Since you’ve given me the choice I’m not going to talk about one fic in particular but my headcannon for James’s career if he had lived. 

I know a lot of people have different headcanons for James’s career but I like to imagine he would follow his grandfather’s footsteps. Lily and James name their only son after James’ grandfather after all, clearly important figure in James’ life.

And James has the makings of a good politician. He is smart, hard-working, driven, stubborn, generous, stands by his convictions and has a strong sense of morals. He supports his werewolf friend and he marries a muggleborn and fight on the frontlines of war. 

In my connected universe of one shots I imagine James starting off as a lawyer for a clinic that provides legal aid to disadvantaged magical beings like werewolves, house elves, squibs, etc. and then when he is older is elected to the wizengamot.

This first time this is hinted at is in Career Advice with James F. Potter

“As the boys bounded up the stairs to check on Remus, Lily absentmindedly picked up the pamphlet Potter had been holding when he walked in. The words on the cover caught her eye: "Legal Aid for Disadvantaged Magical Beings."

A smile teased Lily's lips as she looked up at Potter's retreating back.”

Perspective starts off with Lily asking James about what the sacred 28 are and referencing a conversation they had earlier. This is actually a reference to an earlier fic A Decent Bloke where James helps Lily with a history of magic essay and talks about his grand father Henry who served in the Wizengamot.

James softly chuckled, "Believe it or not, it's a family story. My Grandpa Harry, Henry Potter, was the Wizengamot member who stood up against Minister Evermonde. Quite a big controversy at the time. His consistent outspoken position regarding the Muggle community is also the reason my family is excluded from that ‘Sacred Twenty-Eight’ nonsense." With a pause, James looked down at one of the books on the table. "He was a real decent bloke. More people should remember him."

James is young though so he is still working out his politics in his head. I see him as some who deeply wants to change the injustice he sees, thats why he joined the Order. And I like the more mature James, the one who grew up post OWL exams, the more humble and head-deflated James, knows he hasn’t figured everything out yet. But he’s trying to.

"But you aren't most people. You don't think wizards are better than Muggles?" Lily questioned.

"No," James asserted. "People can be smart or dumb, decent or nasty, and it has nothing to do with being magical. The problem is that most pure-bloods live totally removed from the Muggle world."

"You think we need to get rid of the Statute of Secrecy?"

"No, well I don't know. I do think our community could benefit from more exposure and relations with the non-magical world. The problem is the supremacists argue the statute should be abolished so they can rule over the muggles." James tossed a rock high in the air before catching it and throwing it into the lake before he continued. "I haven't worked it all out, to be honest. I just know things need to change."

This consistent conviction of wanting to help others, to make change, attracts Lily to James.

And it’s not the job people expect him to be interested in so he only tells a couple of people. Everyone else things he’s planning on going pro quidditch. I also see James as a huge nerd, very interested in inventing new magic and experiment with advanced magic. So I can see him continuing transfiguration research even while working at a legal clinic as discussed in Hold On To The Memories, They Will Hold On To You.

“ Of course, I will disappoint all of England by not signing up for the national quidditch team and instead devote my time to the legal aid society of disadvanced magical beings while also getting research published in Transfiguration Today.” 

James paused in his pronouncements and looked down at Lily, his expression softening as his fingertips danced across her arms, sending cool shocks down her body.’ Lily and Sirius were the only ones James had confided in about his post-Hogwarts plans. While most people assumed he’d continue with quidditch, McGonagall even told him that professional recruiters would be at his next match, James’ heart was settled on making a difference in the world and doing his part to right what he felt were outlandish wrongs. James wanted to model himself after his grandfather Henry, who lobbied hard for muggle-born protections. The legal aid society was James’ first step in his plan to help push through needed reforms, and Lily admired and loved him greatly for his dedication to doing good.

And he discusses with Lily through letters in Your Friend, James

I have been discussing with McGonagall about continuing my transfiguration studies after Hogwarts. I could join an academic society and get a fellowship for advanced research on the limits of human transformation. I think I would find this really interesting, but at the same time, I don’t see myself sitting at a desk every day. Do you? I think at a certain point, I’d get too restless being inside all the time.

The truth is I want to do something good. The world seems less and less good these days, and I just want to do something. Most days, I actually want to scream, but that won’t do much to change anything.

I thought about apprenticing at the Legal Aide Society for Disadvantage Magical Beings. My grandad Harry founded it after he served in the Wizengamot in the 30s. But Death Eaters burnt it down, and I think people are too afraid of opening it again. And lastly, the clinic is a major part of James’ post war life in my Jily lives story Rage Against The Dying Of The Light where he is distrcting himself from his PTSD and focusing on reopening his grandfatehr’s clinic right away instead of focusing on his mental health. It his way of being productive during a time where he feels rather useless.

send me a fic, scene, or quote for some director's commentary or send a ⭐ to let me choose what to fic to talk about.

[gemsofgreece]

The Black Rider: Nikolaos Plastiras

Colonel Nikólaos Plastiras (1883 - 1953) was a general and politician, who served twice as the Prime Minister of Greece. He was a politically conflicting or, even, confusing leader who however was very popular at his time. Contemporary historiography evaluates Plastiras as neither a particularly competent politician nor perceptive enough for such a position, however historians agree he was a rare example of a prominent man being very notable for his sense of honour, lawfulness and temperance.

Plastiras fought in the Macedonian Struggle, the Balkan Wars, the National Defense Movement (against the King), World War I, alongside the Allies in the war of the Red and the White Army in Ukraine. Due to his distinction in battle, he earned the name "Ο Μαύρος Καβαλάρης" (O Mávros Kavaláris), "the Black Rider".

Source: mixanitouxronou.gr

In 1922, Plastiras' Regiment was transferred to Smyrna (Izmir) during the Greco-Turkish War. Plastiras was the only anti-King officer that was not dismissed from the army, simply because his Regiment threatened they wouldn't fight under any other commander. While the war ended with Greece's defeat, Plastiras was singled out and called by the Turks as "Kara Biber" (Black Pepper) and his Regiment as "Şeytanın Askerleri" (the Satan's Army).

After the defeat, Plastiras along with Colonel Stylianos Gonatas and Commander Phokas organized the September 1922 Revolution which led to King Constantine I's resignation and the return of the exiled politician Eleftherios Venizelos. His most controversial moment was the "Trial of the Six" (Η Δίκη των Έξι) were six officers were deemed as the major culprits of the disastrous war for Greece, partly due to their blind devotion to the King and their contempt against the popularity of Venizelos. They were condemned to death.

Once, his brother, Giorgos Plastiras, 60 years old at that point, asked for a job in a FIX beer factory. Hearing his surname, they asked him whether he was related to the PM. His brother admitted it but begged them to keep it a secret from him. They agreed and hired him immediately. However, as it happens, a few days later it was all over the news. Plastiras, furious, called his brother to his house and scolded him for getting a job relying on the family name. He counter-proposed that if his brother had financial issues, he should stay with him and share the food.

Plastiras was chronically ill and he lived in a tiny house in Mets (unthinkable for a politician and twice PM). Once, somebody suggested to set up a landline phone for him. Plastiras refused. "How do you even suggest this? Greece will be in poverty while I get to enjoy my phone!?"

Plastiras adopted five orphans from men who fell in battle. He never married and had no biological children.

One night of August 1922, during the Greek army's retreat from Asia Minor, the soldiers were so exhausted that they all fell asleep. When they woke up the next morning, they saw Plastiras on his horse, guarding them. They asked him, "Sir, you - our commander - are standing guard over us?!". Plastiras replied; "I am riding and I am well rested. You travel on foot and carry the supplies. If I don't protect you, then who ought to?"

The publisher of two prominent to this day newspapers (ΒΗΜΑ and ΝΕΑ) once gifted an expensive golden pen to Plastiras. Plastiras refused the gift. When his secretary argued that the publisher might get offended, Plastiras insisted. "I do not need to sign in gold. My little pen is enough. I don't want gifts. For those who make gifts often expect 'gifts in return' (=implied he suspected bribery)".

Plastiras was once visited by Queen Frederica of Greece (daughter-in-law of the king he so fought). She was shocked by the state of his humble home. She asked him why he was sleeping in a cheap camp bed. Plastiras replied that he was used to it since his military days and that many people in the country lived in far worse conditions after all.

Nikolaos Plastiras slept with three frames on the wall over his bed; an icon of Saint Nicholas (his namesake), a painting of French Revolutionists in 1789 and an image of Eleftherios Venizelos!

Plastiras' will to an adopted daughter included the following, which were all his possessions at the time of his death: 216 drachmas, a 10 dollar bill and a note reading "All for Greece". There was also a military receipt charging him with 8 drachmas for a bed he'd lost during the wars. The receipt was accompanied with the amount of money required, with Plastira's requirement to be granted to the public sector, so that he wouldn't die "owing to the Fatherland".

Plastiras was a centrist who often collaborated with liberals and leftists at a time the left was tragically marginalised, at least to the degree that didn’t threaten his own position much. He was likely Venizelos' ultimate fanboy, he was a fierce anti-royalist and loathed the dictatorship of Metaxas. He tried to prevent the Civil War but failed. He was the first one to use the term "Civil War" at a time when others still called it "bandit war", to put the entire blame on the communists. During the war, Plastiras condemned both the Left and the Right for their actions which led to "kin killing kin". As a politician, Plastiras was a pacifist wishing for the unity of the Greek people, but he did not succeed much.

After his death, his body was found to have 27 sword scars and 9 wounds from bullets. His heart was removed and preserved. It was wrapped in a Greek flag and sent to his homeland, Karditsa, as was his wish. His heart is in the Folk Museum of Karditsa.

His heart is kept in a golden capsule in the museum.

Tavropós lake, the lake of Karditsa and a famous artificial lake of Thessaly, was attributed to him. Once, Plastiras was visiting his home Karditsa during severe rainfalls that caused destructive floods in the region. Plastiras looked at the flooded region and said: "This place will become a lake someday". The project for the creation of the lake started a few years later. The lake's actual name is Lake of Tavropós but it is best known as Plastiras' Lake.

Plastiras Lake

[spicywarl0ck]

Hi Spicy!!! How about some Pavelyan or Pavellan today (or any other pair that inspires you!): “I told you, you would eventually start begging.” -from Smutty prompts

Happy Friday, and thank you so much for the prompt! This took me two fridays to finish, because I got carried away with it. I had so much fun writing this for @dadrunkwriting, so thank you x3 Pairing: Dorian Pavus/mLavellan Rating: E Length: 2129

The rush of air felt cold against his flushed cheeks.

He heard the soft splashing of the nearby well, the sound comforting in contrast with the noise inside. Just a moment for himself was all he needed, a moment of calmness after dealing with too many politicians and murder plots.

Revassan took a deep breath, inhaling the soft scents of the exotic flowers around him. 

“Ah, and there I wondered where the hero of the evening went. I figured I’d find you here.” Dorian’s voice made him smile on the spot. It had been hard to find even a minute for themselves with everything going on. They’d only been able to squeeze in one tiny dance on the balcony.

“You always seem to sense where to find me,” Revassan smirked at the mage. “I’d almost say you keep a magical tracker on me.”

“Maybe I do.” He watched the eyes of the Altus glinting slightly, his lips stretching into a mischievous smirk. “We Tevinter mages are rather good at keeping track of our elves.” Dorian joked. “Wouldn’t want them to run away and develop free will, right?” he teased. 

“Ah, I knew there was a catch.” The elf chuckled, observing as Dorian's expression softened. “I take it you came to fetch me then?” 

“Actually, I wanted to steal a moment with you.” Dorian presented him with the bottle of wine he’d held behind his back. “What could be nicer than a picnic in Celene’s gardens right?” 

“And also her wine, I assume?” 

“Of course.” The mage gestured him toward the stone frame of the well. He would never get dirt onto his outfit. “But to soothe your conscience, I asked very politely,” Dorian added swiftly.

“Aren’t you always?” Revassan chuckled as he graciously sat next to the Tevinter mage. “I’m impressed.”

“As you should be.” By the creators, he loved this cocky man. He’s tried to withstand his charms at first but fell for him sooner than expected. Now, he was caught in his trap, unable to let go of the magnificent man that Dorian Pavus was.

“I see you’re very humble tonight.” Revassan teased, watching as Dorian conjured two drinking cups up before he filled them with the sweet red liquid.

“Of course I am.” Dorian’s mustache moved with his smile. “I am the humblest man you’ll ever meet,” he added, only his eyes betraying his words and calling his tease out. By now, Revassan was more than capable of reading this man.

It took him a while to see the vulnerability of Dorian, but he’d taken a deep understanding after meeting his father in Redcliffe.

“Thank you for sneaking the wine out.” Revassan’s smile was genuine. “I needed it,” he added. The past evening had been a lot, and he hadn’t been sure how to deal with political situations. His people didn’t really meddle in things like that, the conclave being the only exception he witnessed. 

If he was honest, it was surprising that they listened to a Dalish elf. 

“I know.” Dorian’s voice sounded soft when he spoke. “You’re not ballroom material,” he added, the tease evident in his voice. “For me, it’s like coming home.” His gaze drifted away for a heartbeat, the corners of his lips dropping slightly.

“Do you miss it?” 

“Home? Of course. Tevinter might have his flaws, but it’s still my home. Don’t you miss your Clan?” he replied, taking a thoughtful sip of wine as he let it dance on his palate. “Hm, I have to say not bad, but nothing could beat a Tevinter Redwine.”

“I miss them.” A sad smile danced on Revassan’s lips. “I miss them ever since I left. Funny, isn’t it?” he chuckled.

“I always wanted to leave, but now that I am so far away from them, I can’t help but want to go back.” It wasn’t as if he could or would, to begin with. There had been nothing more he wanted but to go back when he woke up in the dungeon in Haven. But he knew there was no turning back now.

He’d come too far for that. 

Also, there was Dorian. He wasn’t sure if his father would approve of a Tevinter Altus, meaning he’d need to make a choice sooner or later. For now, though, he didn’t want to choose.

“We always miss the things we can’t have. Or so they say.” The mage’s face turned firm, his eyes studying him intensely.

“I told myself I won’t compromise myself anymore.” He set the cup aside before his hand stretched to touch Revassan’s cheek. The elf felt the cold metal of Dorian’s rings pressing against his skin, the touch soothing against his wine-heated cheeks.

“Neither should you.”

Revassan couldn’t say who initiated it, maybe both of them, but he didn’t care much about the hows and who’s as he melted contently into the kiss. Dorian always knew what he needed, the sweet taste of Orlesian wine lingering on his lips.

He got lost in the touch, slightly shuddering against the mage’s palm cupping his cheek. 

It was easy to forget everything around them as he closed his eyes, just enjoying the moment and closeness of the other man against him as neither wanted to withdraw.

“Getting a little excited?” Dorian chuckled against his lips as he felt him shiver

He didn’t even give him a chance to answer until his tongue brushed against his lips, gently asking for entrance before slipping in. This bastard knew all too well what he did to him. Revassan melted in his arms as his whimpers were muffled by the invading tongue exploring his mouth.

An unbearable heat began to claim his body, yet he also shivered as he felt the chilly breeze.

All he felt was the body pressing against him and the tongue moving inside his mouth. A hand pressed against his lower back, drawing him closer while the mage ravaged every corner of his mouth, leaving him wanting more.

“Dorian~” his voice got muffled against his devouring lips, and he wasn’t sure if he had spoken or just uttered the altus’s name in his head. It didn’t really matter.

“You’re shivering.” The smug reply indicated that Dorian heard him after all. “Oh, but you’re also so aroused right now. I can feel it,” he added, luring a groan out of the elf’s lips as their pelvises touched.

“So are you.” Revassan teased before a rushed breath escaped him when Dorian pushed him further against one of the walls surrounding the gardens.

“I am always excited for you, Amatus,” he whispered against his ear, his tongue darting over the pointed tips and making him moan hoarsely. Revassan tried to hold back, but he couldn’t betray the want in his voice.

Creators, he wanted this man, and he wanted him now.

“We can’t.” The elf tried to protest still, fighting a battle against his wine and lust-filled brain. He wanted to do nothing more but to be ravaged by the tevinter mage, no matter the place or the time. 

“I can tell you don’t mean what you say.” Dorian chuckled, his lips still too close to his sensitive ears. 

He dragged his tongue all over the tip, causing Revassan’s fingers to curl into his tunic tightly. A strangled moan escaped him as he tilted his head to the side, giving the impossible man more access to his ear and neck.

“I guess I have to make you beg for it then. We both know you will.” 

It was both a threat and a promise. Dorian always managed to bring him to that point, and Revassan was sure the Altus would manage this time, too. No matter if they were in the Empress's gardens or not.

A part of him needed to admit that the thought excited him a bit.

“What if someone sees us?” The elf asked, even though the chance added to the thrill. He knew the corner that Dorian was dark enough that no one would see for real, but just the implication of it would serve the nobles enough topics to gossip about.

“Are you truly caring about that?” Dorian’s voice was husky, but Revassan knew he only needed to say the word, and he’d stop.

“I leave that to you to find out.” Revassan teased him, only to moan as quietly as he could when he felt Dorian’s teeth scrapping against the sensitive skin of his ears.

One hand slowly snaked towards his crotch, brushing against his bulge innocently enough to play it off accidentally. But he knew it wasn’t. He couldn’t help but press against the hand, secretly yearning for more as the mage’s lips and teeth drove him insane in such a short amount of time.

“Dorian…~” he whimpered as the Altus kissed his way to his earlobe, only to continue at his neck. 

His hips couldn’t help but move against the hand cupping his erection, but he was too proud to beg. He wouldn’t give in to Dorian’s demands that quickly, but he also couldn’t help the dizziness rushing through him. It probably was the mixture of the blood flow and the wine. 

“I love it when you moan my name like this, Amatus.” The cocky mage whispered against his heated skin.

His lips left marks where they touched him as his hand slowly vanished within the elf’s trousers. They were so close to the goal as they stretched over the smooth skin above his hard cock, the touch so very teasing as Revassan wanted nothing more but to be touched.

But Dorian wouldn’t give him what he wanted. Not just like that.

“You’re such a… a prick.” Revassan stuttered out, his brain unable to focus on anything but the heat and the throbbing pulse of his cock.

“I am, but admit it, You love me for it.” Dorian chuckled against his neck, leaving another mark behind after sucking the sensitive skin. Revassan felt every tooth dragging over his skin and the soft sensation of the mage’s lips as it pressed right against him.

But Dorian was right. He loved this man more than anyone else.

“Dorian…” a moan broke past the elf’s lips again, his hips grinding wantonly against the hand touching anything but his throbbing cock. “Pl… Please.” he gave in and fought his pride, not caring if anyone would see them.

All that he wanted was Dorian.

“I told you. You would eventually start begging.” The altus chuckled just as his hand traveled lover to wrap around Revassan’s cock. “It’s alright,” he added in a soothing voice as the elf moaned underneath his touch, his fingers curling firmly into his clothes. 

“I take care of you,” Dorian promised softly, his hand never ceasing its pumping motion as it dragged up and down on the pulsing shaft. 

It drove him insane. Both the sensation and the knowledge of being jerked off in the Empresse’s gardens were too much. He didn’t know what to think since all his thoughts became a heated blur, his hips thrusting into his lover’s hands on their own. 

It didn’t matter anymore where they were or what they did. All that mattered was that Revassan was here and the heat rushing through him, wanting more. And what he wanted right now was to find release within his lover’s hands.

“I’m close.” he moaned, his forest green eyes hooded and foggy when he tried to make eye contact.

“Then come for me, Amatus,” Dorian answered, his voice hoarse since he couldn’t hide his own desire. “Come,” he added in a whisper, his lips gently sucking at the tip of Revassan’s pointed ear as his hand kept a firm grip on his cock.

He didn’t budge when the elf found his release within his hand, hips stuttering as he made a small mess.

For a moment, he felt shaky. Only the body of his lover could keep Revassan from falling onto the ground as his heart rate went up. He almost felt like he was bursting, and everything around him was a blur.

But he felt Dorian’s warmth and strength as it held him, the mage’s aftershave so prominent in his nostrils.

Revassan could’ve fallen asleep but forced himself to regain a clear head. No one was around them, just the two of them sharing a heated embrace as the elf slowly came to his senses.

“What about you?” he asked hoarsely as one of his hands softly brushed questionably against Dorian’s bulge. 

“How about we join the party for now, and you repay me after we retire to our quarters?” The altus whispered against his ear, cleaning his hand with a handy spell and giving Revassan a moment to make himself decent again.

“You think anyone can lend us any silk shawls?” 

[rpfisfine]

an overview of the things we watched during my turbofolk seminar for @roadwhores @lofimp3 and my other balkan (and non-balkan) followers who might be interested

(my professor is bulgarian for context and unfortunately she hasn’t made the presentation with all the additional information public yet so these r just my personal notes & things ive remembered.Thumbs up)

we started with the only balkan song that is on the voyager golden record which i thought was sooooo beautiful as someone from a country who didn’t have anything interesting to contribute to the golden record besides the greeting to the universe i feel very humbled and reverent to have listened to it

goran bregović - bella ciao & kalashnikov at sziget festival 2012 (our professor mentioned that he’s kind of a piece of shit who steals songs from marginalized communities and profits off of it and has been actively sued for it in the past so i made sure to shake my head while i was listening to show that i didn’t agree with his actions)

recordings of traditional folk songs being performed at serbian weddings I forgot to write the performer’s name down but he played the clarinet beautifully and someone stuck a bill to his forehead while he was playing to show their appreciation which I think we need to bring back)

we talked abt ceca quite extensively and also looked at one paparazzi photo of her with some politician guy who besides being her biggest fan in the world is also apparently a huge fan of vinnetou & robert de niro which i thought was kind of a slay personally

we watched one lepa brena video from the 80s and one from the 90s to see the transformation of her style and the sound of her music throughout the years

+ also clips of her wedding to boba which we compared to ceca’s wedding to the serbian mobster who then ended up being assasinated (we didn’t touch on ceca’s personal criminal history too much but after a brief glimpse at her wikipedia page I think we should have im slightly obsessed with her i think)

the most aggressively 90s and vaguely bisexual music video by saška vaseva abt clubbing and drinking….loved it

neshto netipichno (probably not spelled right but i copied it from the yt title) by ivana

azis!!!!!!!!! he’s such an icon to me our professor showed us a selection of his mvs ranging from the time when he wasn’t out as a gay man yet to i think his most recent song so we kind of witnessed his whole transformation from his like full blown drag stuff (i.e "hop" - SLAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) to his most recent very aggressively masculine & americanized style but i am literally actually legitimately obsessed with his look from his old videos i need to look exactly like him immediately like . Are you kidding me

we ended with dubioza kolektiv - USA & no escape from balkan and i kind of want to tattoo the lyrics of the second song on my body if im being honest i respect what these guys have going on

overall it was definitely the best seminar from this course and im so glad i dragged my lifeless body out of bed in the morning to attend it bc i cannot even imagine missing out on it you guys have a very wonderful culture and i loved that 80s & 90s balkan music videos literally look identical to czech mvs from that time I felt a deep sense of kinship while watching them. Long live yugoslavia ❤️

[askthestans]

Dear Stanford Pines.

Remember your brother Stanley was running for office as a candidate for mayor? If you were selected as candidate instead, what do you think about what could have happened?

Stanford: I have always despised politics and politicians. They all need truth teeth permanently installed in their mouths, if you ask me. But if I hadn't been so busy trying to fix the rift problem last summer, I would have run for office, as well. Gravity Falls has been a good town to me, and after the chaos my work has brought upon it, it would have been an honor to make up for my mistakes as its most humble servant.

I would have focused on protecting both the people and the supernatural from each other, and the outside world. I would have given greater funding to the schools and library. I would remove every symbol of Bill Cipher around the town.

And most importantly, I’d have had statues erected of both Fiddleford and my brother as town and world heroes, right in the center of main street. Of course, it wouldn’t have said anything about what they did specifically - hence the ‘Never Mind All That’ act - but history should never forget them.

Stanley: I'm still a little upset that my criminal record got me canned as mayor. Yeesh, as if tons of other politicians have never done any crime! Hell, most of 'em still do it while they're in office! So what if I've got mob ties? So what if I've smuggled pugs and spent some nights in the big house? What matters is that my heart is big, and it's always in the right place. Also, an eagle kissed me. Can any other politician say that? No. Didn't think so.

Stanford: Actually, now that I think of it... you probably would have made a great mayor, Stan.

Stanley: What, you really think so?

Stanford: Of course! Remember when we got stuck on that Caribbean island after the Stan-O’-War II had run into rocks?

Stanley: Oh man, the one with that freak who hunted humans, right?

Stanford: Yes. We wouldn’t have survived without you!

Stanley: *His cheeks flush a little pink.* Oh, well... what can I say? All I did was convince the other people gettin’ hunted with us that turnin’ on each other was crap, and we should focus our efforts on the jerk in the mansion that put us there in the first place. I mean, why direct your anger at other people who had nothin’ to do with why you’re stuck somewhere bad? Why not direct it at the schmuck who actually needs his clock cleaned?

Stanford: By the end of the night, you were in that hunter’s chair in his expensive estate, smoking his pipe by his fireplace-

Stanley: Most expensive tobacco I ever had the pleasure of puffin’.

Stanford: And afterwards, you convinced the others to help everyone fix each other’s boats and share supplies so that we could all get off that cursed island.

Stanley: Heh, that was nothin’! ‘Sides, I did his belongings a favor. Man wasn’t classy enough to live in a place that nice with stuff that fancy. I was just sad we had to leave it. I love the Stan-O’-War, don’t get me wrong. But a mansion on a Caribbean island? Sure was cozy.

Stanford: That was ingenious, charismatic, righteous leadership, Stan. See what I mean? A perfect mayor.

Stanley: Aw, well... honestly, the only way I’d ever run for anything ever again is if you were my running mate. Forget bein’ a mayor! Just think if we were president and vice president? I’d do the talkin’, and you’d do the thinkin’. We’d be unstoppable! And we’d legalize mostly everything! Pines and Pines 2024.

Stanford: And give NASA a way bigger budget!

Stanley: And redecorate the White House with sad clown paintings!

Stanford: And don’t forget, we’d-

Stanley: Hah! I know exactly what you’re gonna say, Ford. Hold on, wait.

*They both give each other a knowing look. It’s one of those rare, nearly twin telepathy moments.*

Stanley and Stanford: Declare ourselves the official Kings of New Jersey!

*They both erupt into laughter.*

Stanley: Also, I’d make Congress duke it out in boxing matches on the House and Senate floors. And broadcast it on live TV! Teddy would be so proud!

Stanford: Do you think they’d let me get my official portrait painted with me flipping my two middle fingers?

[demonslayedher]

If the story was set in the modern age, like a more serious version of Kimetsu Academy, do you think it would have been easier or harder to kill Muzan? And do you think the change in time would effect which characters died? From a Doylist POV I imagine all the same characters would have died, in similar ways probably, but from a Watsonian POV I think everyone's fates could have been different.

For readers at home: Doylist POV is from the perspective of outside a world of fiction, Watsonian POV is analyzing it from the perspective of being within the universe of that fiction.

Kimetsu Academy is like the "everyone is happy and nothing bad ever happens to anyone ever" AU we all deserve after the hellride we road with an alligator at the wheel. If we were to take that world's basic building as constraints (Muzan is a politician, Kimetsu Academy is a front for finding demons and raising demon slayers, etc) and eliminate the gags (no more exploding art room unless there's been a serious battle there), then...

This sure puts Gyutaro and Ume in a dangerous situation, doesn't it? If we jump straight into working with them, I could see a couple of delinquents following a path that leads them to a night of violence which results in choosing to become demons, or, if they are already covertly living as demons and Gyutaro is just trying to take care of his sister, then they could potentially have a bright future ahead thanks to the Academy looking our for them (while also keeping an eye on them and pretending not to know).

In any AU that I take seriously, I always want to know the perimeters, what stays the same, and what's different. As there are so many ways this could be different, I think that alone would change the fates of a lot of characters. For example, for demons to go to school, this either needs to be an underground school (which might work for the Ubuyashiki's purposes), or demons need resistance to sunlight, which would totally alter Muzan's goals. Maybe this is a Muzan who has ALREADY ATTAINED mastery of the sun and now his goal is to take over Japan. And, maybe after Muzan attained that, he almost entirely wiped out the Demon Slayers again, so they need to rebuild themselves in secrecy. Hmm, yes, I like this, and I'm going to use it as my framework for contemplating this AU.

Muzan is aware that he didn't pull up all the roots all those years ago, but now that he is in public spotlight with publicly traded companies, he has more image-management constraints to work around, hence the need to send spies like Nakime and Kaigaku. He's also probably eliminated any demon that couldn't master their appearance enough to look human, thereby decreasing the overall number of demons, thereby making fewer incidents of death-by-demon throughout the country. If they do start getting out of control, then it puts Muzan in the sticky situation of his constituents bugging him to do something about it.

My next question is how consistent the character motivations are. Maybe Tanjiro's family did run a bakery, but after they got killed for whatever it was Muzan wanted out of them, he and Nezuko escaped and now live in an underground dorm (because I can't get rid of this underground idea, maybe not all demons have mastered the sun, or there's limits to how much they can stand). Maybe humble baker Tanjuro was actually developing family-honored recipe all this time that had the potential to kill demons' appetites and weaken them? No, no, this has too much potential for getting silly, he's a baker who also used a sword.

As Japan has a group-home system typically run by public employees as opposed to much development in their foster care system, let's say Hisa is the dorm mother and many of the children who live the dorms had no where else to go, or were sent there by masters who knew the true goals of the Kimetsu Academy. So they all go in with various understandings of what they're learning outside of regular class hours, as the regular classes are open to regular students so that the school can keep up it's "we're a regularly nice school, we just don't happen to have a lot of sunlight through the windows because show concern for our students with health conditions, for similar reason, we don't use any peanuts" kind of front.

The Final Selection to get into the school includes a regular academic test too, because they have accepted responsibility to educate these young people too, after all. Some writer much smarter than me would think of clever ways for them to incorporate what they learn in math and science and literature into their Breath techniques.

So that sets the stage a big more, or rather, is like the ring in which we'll set up a bunch of Nichirin Beyblades and see who tears each other up.

That's really going to depend on each character's motivation: what they are willing to die for and how they'll go about doing it with the new constraints, as well as opportunities in this world.

For instance, I think Shinobu's gonna die in much the same way. She's made up her mind to so much that it would take lots and lots of Doylist intervention to stop her. Let's assume biology teacher!Kanae is long since dead (or "mysteriously retired" or "mysteriously transferred to one of their sister schools abroad" as it might look like on official modern day paperwork).

Other characters who died by facing a battle head-on might find themselves dead in a similar manner, like history teacher!Rengoku and kendo!Sabito. Sabito perhaps is already a ghost in the halls, but for all the students who don't know the academy's true aims, history teacher!Rengoku sudden departure would be a major blow to the atmosphere of the whole school.

Muichiro and Genya... I'd like to think they might had more of a fighting chance, depending on the circumstances and constraints a political secretary like Kokushibo might have. For instance, Muzan's rule to retain his human appearance may be tricky enough for him that it gives them just enough wiggle room to survive, however much that survival is gonna hurt.

Art teacher!Uzui will probably keep teaching and act like nothing's wrong, and just be like, "what?" when the normal students are balking at his missing hand and eye (made less noticeable in the first place by the hoodie).

Graduated!Mitsuri and chemistry teacher!Iguro are a toss up. Obamitsu is always best tossed in the "happy end" direction so there they go, somehow or another they'll survive this one because Doylist intervention demands it.

Himejima... given his leadership role, I think he's going down.

Tamayo might have a chance! Modern day constraints on Muzan's activities means modern day opportunities for taking him down! She might have more sly ways of delivery medicine to him than just punching him and expecting him to absorb her fist. His schedule may be public enough that they can work one step ahead of him to slowly poison him.

I guess that's what my gut tells me! Again, to really say for sure, I would need to see the world more fully developed and see how the characters grow and developed within that world--especially it requires a serious take and not a gag one.

[girlactionfigure]

He was born on November 9, 1934. His father was an immigrant garment worker from what is now Ukraine. His mother was a housewife from New York. They were Reform Jews, and they lived in a modest apartment in a Brooklyn neighborhood. Even though the family had little money, his father, who worked in the garment industry, would give out apples to the poor. His mother had dreams, but as a woman and because of her Jewish ethnicity and her poverty, society set limits on what she could achieve.

He would say that his "parents were not scientists", but they would encourage him to reach for the stars.

When he asked them, "What are the stars?", they would tell him all they knew was that "they’re lights in the sky" but if he wanted to learn more about them, he needed to go to the library, which he did.

His curiosity led him to earn degrees in physics, astronomy and astrophysics

He became an astronomer, an author, and a social activist. His name was Carl Sagan.

He would say, referring to a picture of our planet compared to the size of the universe, "Look again at that dot."

"That's here. That's home. That's us. On it everyone you love, everyone you know, everyone you ever heard of, every human being who ever was, lived out their lives. The aggregate of our joy and suffering, thousands of confident religions, ideologies, and economic doctrines, every hunter and forager, every hero and coward, every creator and destroyer of civilization, every king and peasant, every young couple in love, every mother and father, hopeful child, inventor and explorer, every teacher of morals, every corrupt politician, every "superstar", every "supreme leader", every saint and sinner in the history of our species lived there — on a mote of dust suspended in a sunbeam.

"The Earth is a very small stage in a vast cosmic arena. Think of the rivers of blood spilled by all those generals and emperors so that, in glory and triumph, they could become the momentary masters of a fraction of a dot. Think of the endless cruelties visited by the inhabitants of one corner of this pixel on the scarcely distinguishable inhabitants of some other corner, how frequent their misunderstandings, how eager they are to kill one another, how fervent their hatreds.

"Our posturings, our imagined self-importance, the delusion that we have some privileged position in the Universe, are challenged by this point of pale light. Our planet is a lonely speck in the great enveloping cosmic dark. In our obscurity, in all this vastness, there is no hint that help will come from elsewhere to save us from ourselves.

"The Earth is the only world known so far to harbor life. There is nowhere else, at least in the near future, to which our species could migrate. Visit, yes. Settle, not yet. Like it or not, for the moment the Earth is where we make our stand.

"It has been said that astronomy is a humbling and character-building experience. There is perhaps no better demonstration of the folly of human conceits than this distant image of our tiny world. To me, it underscores our responsibility to deal more kindly with one another, and to preserve and cherish the pale blue dot, the only home we've ever known."

The Jon S. Randal Peace Page

[janzoo]

How does your OC feel about each member of the polycule?

(Original meme) Thanks for the prompt! And also your patience. ^^; When I first received this, I thought, "Oh I haven't delved into this topic yet so this will require some thinking, I'll set it aside and do it later." And thus later is now, whoops. I found it easier to answer in-character, so here we go -

(Mild spoilers for Heavensward and Endwalker)

Drakyr on Aymeric:

"Gods, where do I even start?" she begins, cheeks pinched in a wide, bright smile. "There's a...balance to him. He's refined and poised, while still warm and sincere. He's confident and intelligent, while still humble and considerate. Life as a politician hasn't dulled his compassion."

"During that ill-fated dinner, when he asked me what I want for myself...he was the first person to ask me that since I became the Warrior of Light. It had been far too long since someone else seemed to truly see me. And I don't doubt that if I'd gotten to tell him my wants for life, he would've hoped I'd get them."

"Sure, he does work much too hard. I think sometimes that even now, he feels as though he needs to prove himself worthy of his own life," she adds with a little shrug. "But nobody is perfect, not even Ser Aymeric de Borel. I but try to assure him that he's already more than worthy in my eyes and my heart."

Drakyr on Estinien:

"Oh, I adore Estinien's simplicity and frankness. After spending so much time around lofty scholarly types, there's something refreshing about getting a straightforward answer. Don't get me wrong - I don't think Estinien is less intelligent. I just feel that his intelligence is more grounded and practical."

She pauses, a hand coming to her chest as her expression turns bittersweet. "After the end of the Dragonsong War, I wasn't sure what to expect of him. He's been through so much. A lifetime spent driven by hatred and revenge will leave its mark. But the more we caught up after I returned from the First, the more I saw what Hydaelyn pointed out in the Aitiascope: that without the shackles of vengeance, Estinien had an incredible heart, brimming with love. Like a forest grown anew after a wildfire."

"I think I saw some of myself in that," she adds. "After the death of my tribe in the Calamity, and the ordeals on the First, I felt as though the two of us had gone through some kind of healing together. I don't know how to describe it otherwise. Our hearts just seem to know each other."

Drakyr on both of them:

"Despite their differences, I trust the two of them see me for me, regardless of my status or reputation, or what have you. We are sanctuaries to one another."

"I did fall in love with Aymeric first. We all know that. I don't know when I fell in love with Estinien too, just that the love is there now." She pauses and smiles, holding her arms out. "And that I'm glad for it. Besides, I've got two hands for a reason!"

[nityarawal]

10/5/2023

Morning Songs

Dia's Song

Sitting In The Woods

Once Again

Wondering Where To Turn

Thinkin' Of Our Moms

And Foul Play Done

Billionaire Heiress

Lydia Abrams

Disappeared

Now A Probate

Money Tied Up

By Court Fraud

Her Son Just Wants

Closure

Confirm

X- Sheriff Keith 

Harper Murdered 

His Mom

Dia And Her

Caretaker Jodi

I Called On Ad

To The Caretaking Ranch

Job

I Called On An Ad

And Spoke To Keith

Harper

For Bautista Ranch

Up Apple Canyon 

Hurkey Creek

Didn't Take The Job

Won't Go Out

And Investigate

A Already Solved

Case

He Already Murdered

My Bunky Jodi

And Dia Abrams

Why Does Becky Clark

Advertise A Murderer

Confirmed Sex Offender

She Offered Me $15

Dollars An Article

Before Idyology

Caged Me

And Pushes Academy

Moms On Pleas

Was The Advertising

Money

Worth It

For A Registered

Sex Offender

$15 Like An Article

To Buy Another

Murdered Caretaker

Why Would You

Do A Story

On Man

Who Murdered Two Moms

Not Get To The Bottom

Of It

Or Tie Up Loose

Ends

For Academy Graduates

Journalists

We Alerted The

Help Center

About Keith Harper's

Ad in Idyllwild Town Crier

For Another Caretaker

Sounds Like 

Another Journalist

Grad

From Idyllwild Arts

In Latest Video

From Jodi

Touring Bautista

Wedding

Airbnb Site

Garner Valley

Was Almost Sold

Out

Again

Take Down Your Ad

For Sex Offenders

Victims

Witch Hunting Mommies

For Proud Boys

Take Down Your Ad

We Work For Dia

Restraining Orders

For Sex Offenders

From Her Ranches

Not The X Sheriff

Or Officers That Need

To Be Fired

Raiding For Billions

We Work With

Dia

San Diego Probates

PNC Bank

BBVA Before Them

Wells Fargo

San Diego Credit

Unions

Fidelity

Refund Billions

Times To Thee

Mary Schmitz

Admitted Airbnb

Fraud

Murder

Management

400 Victims

In Idyllwild

Mountain Center

Pine Cove

Wrongfully Evicted

Idyllwild Realty

Wrongful Deaths

Sergeant Protero 

Pretends To Investigate

Lipstick On

With A Harem

Of Hitmen

Fraudulent Officers

Ignorant Of Laws

Raping Mommies

Away

Not One Good Probate

Judge

Not One Officer

Knows The Law

Diplomacy

5 W's

Citizen Journalists

So Charge

Harper And His

Accomplices

Sheriff Bianco

Enoch

With Fraud

DA

You Can't "OJ Murder"

Another Mom

On Cons

My Sisters

2nd Bunky

Witnessed Foul Play

Paris Hilton Whistle 

Blew

#FreeBritney And I

Don't Take Another

Heiress

For A Job

Our Taxes Won't

Cover

In-House

Murders

Domestic Terrorism 

Don't Take Another 

Heiress

Give 300k  Finders

Fee To #Nitya4Eternity

To Me

Starving Journalist

In Need

Needy

Who Tweeted

Until Elon

Joined Me 

On "X"

Just A Humble

Journalist

Nobody

Jealous

Of Merlin

Mommy

Nobody Jealous

Of Merlin Mommy

Give Us Back Our

Kids

Give Us Back X

You Can't Give Us

Back

6 Years

With King Kyan

Or Princess Anjali

Nor All The Oil

Stolen

For Iranian Women

Lives Matter

Now

And Always

All The Oil Stolen

In WW3 Bribes

Give It Back

To The Prople

But The Power

Is Now

And You Can't

Do That

Give It Back

Give It Back

Rewind Pendant

YouTube And

Watch That

Stole Our Time

On Apple Cons

Techy Bribes

Selling Starter Wives

Give It Back

Give Back My Beach

Home

Your Black Mary

With Her Pierced

Nose

Conned To Work For

CPS

Senator

Probate Judge Jackson

Candace Owen's Pod

Bribed My Mothers

Heads

On The Black Market

For Politicians

Send Back Your

Dancing Gigolos

To London

Jodi Was Flustered

As Keith

Tried To Burn

Through 

The Hoes

Enough

Peace

Peace,

Nitya Nella Davigo Azam Moezzi Huntley Rawal 

[bills-bible-basics]

Abortion * Children * Pregnancy Graphic 30 https://www.billkochman.com/Blog/index.php/landmark-conservative-victory-scotus-overturns-roe-v-wade/ WOW! Praise the Lord! They did it! After fifty years of enduring such an ungodly farce, which only brought shame to our nation in the eyes of God, on Friday, June 24, 2022, in a 6-3 ruling, the conservative justices of the Supreme Court of the United States mustered their courage and overturned Roe v. Wade. By so doing, they have sent the abortion issue back to the individual states where it actually belongs. What a hot battle will now ensue in each state as locally-elected officials and their constituents make their OWN decision with regards to this extremely divisive issue. I am so encouraged by this news! Their ruling gives me a little hope that maybe there is some light at the end of the tunnel. For once, the SCOTUS has done something right, after so many blunders in recent years, such as legalizing same-sex "marriage" in 2015. Of course, honestly speaking, the nation as a whole still has a long way to go, and a lot of serious repenting that still needs to be done, if she expects to be forgiven, and receive God's full blessings. As we read in the Holy Scriptures: "Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people." Proverbs 14:34, KJV "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14, KJV "The LORD is far from the wicked: but he heareth the prayer of the righteous." Proverbs 15:29, KJV "The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles." Psalm 34:17, KJV "Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight in approaching to God." Isaiah 58:2, KJV "But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him." Acts 10:35, KJV To continue, despite all the devilish things the radical Left and those wicked pro-abortionists did to try to dissuade the conservative justices from making this ruling -- including protesting outside some of their homes, threatening their lives, demonizing them, etc. -- the six conservative justices stood firm. God bless them for that! Satan and his crowd are no doubt quite outraged and imploding at this very moment! In fact, as you have probably already read, the public protests by the ungodly wicked who insist on murdering their unborn children have already begun. Who knows what those extremists will do in coming days, weeks and months. We have already witnessed what they have done in the recent past when they don't get their way: mob violence on the streets! Quite frankly, it is totally absurd that Roe vs. Wade has lasted these past fifty years as it has, because as far as I know, there is absolutely no right to abortion to be found anywhere in the US Constitution. The word "abortion" does NOT even exist in the document anywhere. I have no doubt that the founders of this nation, and the authors of the US Constitution, would be horrified to learn how their carefully-crafted words have been so terribly twisted by radical politicians and justices in our modern day, in order to magically create support for such a heinous, wicked, devilish, murderous procedure as abortion. As we all know, surgical abortion did not even exist at that time, so how could the Constitution's framers possibly have even imagined it, much less condone it and protect it as a right in said document? They couldn't, and didn't. In short, my friends, the constitutional right to abortion has been a Big Lie, and a fabricated fiction, which has endured for these past fifty years due to weak politicians, and weak justices, who were too afraid to do anything about it. No one had the guts to do what really needed to be done.

So again, thank God that Roe v. Wade has finally been overturned, and the abortion battle will now continue in the individual states where it belongs. One thing is for certain. This ruling will make the 2022 midterms, and the 2024 presidential campaign season all the more interesting. Every politician -- whether representative, senator, governor or presidential candidate -- will now be forced to make an open, public stand on one side of the fence or the other. There are no longer any gray areas in which to hide. Red states will now become redder, and blue states will become bluer. That is a given. As many of you have no doubt already read or heard, not surprisingly, former US President Donald J. Trump is taking credit for this monumental, landmark decision, being as he nominated three of the justices who were a part of the majority opinion. While I personally don't care for Trump's constant self-glorification and tooting his own horn, in this regard, he is right. Without those three justices on the bench, this victory for Christian and Conservative values would have never happened. Of course, as a Bible-believing Christian, I also believe that the LORD was behind the developments which ultimately led to this ruling. After all, the Scriptures clearly inform us that He is the one who raises up and puts down leaders, as we can easily determine by the following group of verses: "Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake." Romans 13:1-5, KJV "Lift not up your horn on high: speak not with a stiff neck. For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another." Psalm 75:5-7, KJV "Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:" Daniel 2:20-21, KJV "This matter is by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men." Daniel 4:17, KJV "I have made the earth, the man and the beast that are upon the ground, by my great power and by my outstretched arm, and have given it unto whom it seemed meet unto me." Jeremiah 27:5, KJV "The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will." Proverbs 21:1, KJV "For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king. And Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the commandment of the LORD, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice. Now therefore, I pray thee, pardon my sin, and turn again with me, that I may worship the LORD. And Samuel said unto Saul, I will not return with thee: for thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, and the LORD hath rejected thee from being king over Israel." 1 Samuel 15:23-26, KJV "And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat upon his throne, and made an oration unto them. And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of a god, and not of a man.

And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he gave not God the glory: and he was eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost." Acts 12:21-23, KJV But concerning Donald J. Trump, in my view, the truth is that unless those nasty Democrats soon find a way to totally destroy him, Trump may very well make a comeback, and be the next US president AGAIN! We all know that the radical Left -- and even some members of Trump's own party -- has been working really hard at it for years now, trying every possible trick in the book to bring down Trump. It is evident that the radicals are becoming more desperate and vicious by the month, as the 2024 campaign season draws ever closer! Yet Trump still stands. Is it by Divine Will? Good question. In fact, with the rulings the SCOTUS has just made regarding Roe v. Wade and Second Amendment gun rights, I suspect that the court has indirectly pretty much handed Donald Trump the Republican 2024 presidential nomination, and quite possibly a 2024 presidential victory as well, being as it was Trump's three judicial nominations which has resulted in these two rulings. Time will tell. These two rulings have certainly fired up Trump's base, and Trump himself is capitalizing on these two developments as much as he can. Article: "Abortion: Slaughter of the Innocent: https://www.billkochman.com/Articles/abort-01.html Article: "Murdering Millions by Mail: The Abortion Controversy": https://www.billkochman.com/Articles/murdering-millions-by-mail.html Article: "The Fruit of the Womb": https://www.billkochman.com/Articles/fruitwm1.html "Abortion" KJV Bible Verse List: https://www.billkochman.com/VerseLists/verse493.html "Child Discipline and Obedience" KJV Bible Verse List: https://www.billkochman.com/VerseLists/verse122.html https://www.billkochman.com/Blog/index.php/abortion-children-pregnancy-graphic-30/?feed_id=76476&_unique_id=650e4b9c405ca&Abortion%20%2A%20Children%20%2A%20Pregnancy%20Graphic%2030