#the fantastic Union four

[araiz-zaria]

The Fantastic Union General Officers' Christmas Eve Shenanigans 🎄— part I

(click here for part II) ...where do you think Grant is going to? 😏😉

[illyanarasputinfan]

Blood Hunt Reading Checklist (2024) Marvel

[icedsodapop]

John Cho! Reed Richards 🤝🏼 Gabrielle Union! Susan Storm when?

[earth-6677]

Chapters: 2/12 Fandom: Invaders (Marvel), Marvel Cinematic Universe, Marvel (Comics), Fantastic Four, Dracula & Related Fandoms Rating: Teen And Up Audiences Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Major Character Death Relationships: Roger Aubrey/Michael Carter, Robert Frank/Madeline Joyce (Marvel), Abraham van Helsing/Original Female Character(s) Characters: Michael Carter (Marvel), Roger Aubrey, Victor von Doom, Djordji Zindelo Hungaros, Robert Frank (Marvel), Madeline Joyce (Marvel), Abraham Van Helsing, Original Female Character(s), Cynthia von Doom Additional Tags: Period Typical Bigotry, Romani Victor von Doom, World War II, Nazis, Punching Nazis, Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence, Vampires, Latveria (Marvel) Series: Part 9 of The Invaders Summary:

Victor von Doom is seventeen years old and is about to lose everything. His village has been destroyed, his mother killed, and his friends executed by HYDRA. On the brink of despair, he hears rumours of an Allied strike team tearing through Axis forces in the Balkans. In desperation, he sends out a request for help.

Union Jack and the Invaders answer.

[mostlysignssomeportents]

Return to office and dying on the job

Denise Prudhomme's bosses at Wells Fargo insisted that the in-person camaraderie of their offices warranted a mandatory return-to-office policy, but when she died at her desk in her Tempe, AZ office, no one noticed for four days.

That was in August. Now, Wells Fargo United has published a statement on her death, one that vibrates with anger at the callously selective surveillance that Wells Fargo inflicts on its workforce:

https://www.reddit.com/r/WellsFargoUnited/comments/1fnp9fa/please_print_and_take_to_your_managersite_leader/

The union points out that Wells Fargo workers are subjected to continuous, fine-grained on-the-job surveillance from a variety of bossware tools that count their keystrokes and create tables of the distancess their mice cross each day:

https://pluralistic.net/2021/02/24/gwb-rumsfeld-monsters/#bossware

Wells Fargo's message to its workforce is, "You can't be trusted," a policy that Wells Fargo doubled down on with its Return to Office mandate. Return to Office is often pitched as a chance to improve teamwork, communication, and human connection with your co-workers, and there's no arguing with the idea that spending some time in person with people can help improve working relationships (I attended a week-long, all-hands, staff retreat for EFF earlier this month and it was fantastic, primarily due to its in-person nature).

But our bosses don't want us back in the office because they enjoy our company, nor because they're so excited about having hired such a swell bunch of folks and can't wait to see how we all get along together. As John Quiggin writes, the biggest reason to force us back to the office is to get a bunch of us to quit:

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2024/sep/26/in-their-plaintive-call-for-a-return-to-the-office-ceos-reveal-how-little-they-are-needed

As one of Musk's toadies put it in a private message before the Twitter takeover, "Sharpen your blades boys. 2 day a week Office requirement = 20% voluntary departures":

https://techcrunch.com/2022/09/29/elon-musk-texts-discovery-twitter/

The other reason to spy on us is because they don't trust us. Remember all the panic about "quiet quitting" and "no one wants to work"? Bosses' hypothesis was that eking out a bare minimum living on from a couple of small-dollar covid stimulus checks was preferable to working for them for a full paycheck.

Every accusation is a a confession. When your boss tells you that he thinks that you can't be trusted to do a good job without total, constant surveillance, he's really saying, "I only bother to do my CEO job when I'm afraid of getting fired':

https://pluralistic.net/2024/04/19/make-them-afraid/#fear-is-their-mind-killer

As Wells Fargo United notes, Wells Fargo employees like Denise Prudhomme are spied on from the moment they set foot in the building until the moment they clock out (and sometimes the spying continues when you're off the clock):

Wells Fargo monitors our every move and keystroke using remote, electronic technologies—purportedly to evaluate our productivity—and will fire us if we are caught not making enough keystrokes on our computers.

The Arizona Republic coverage notes further that Prudhomme had to log her comings and goings from the Wells Fargo offices with a badge, so Wells Fargo could see that Prudhomme had entered the premises four days before, but hadn't left:

https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/tempe-breaking/2024/09/23/wells-fargo-employees-union-responds-death-tempe-woman/75352015007/

Wells Fargo has mandated in-person working, even when that means crossing a state line to be closer to the office. They've created "hub cities" where workers are supposed to turn up. This may sound convivial, but Prudhomme was the only member of her team working out of the Tempe hub, so she was being asked to leave her home, travel long distances, and spend her days in a distant corner of the building where no one ventured for periods of (at least) four days at a time.

Bosses are so convinced that they themselves would goof off if they could that they fixate on forcing employees to spend their days in the office, no matter what the cost. Back in March 2020, Charter CEO Tom Rutledge – then the highest-paid CEO in America – instituted a policy that every back office staffer had to work in person at his call centers. This was the most deadly phase of the pandemic, there was no PPE to speak of, we didn't understand transmission very well, and vaccines didn't exist yet. Charter is a telecommunications company and it was booming as workers across America upgraded their broadband so they could work from home, and the CEO's response was to ban remote work. His customer service centers were superspreading charnel houses:

https://pluralistic.net/2020/03/18/diy-tp/#sociopathy

That Wells Fargo would leave a dead employee at her desk for four days is par for the course for the third-largest commercial bank in America. This is Wells Fargo, remember, the company that forced its low-level bank staff to open two million fake accounts in order to steal from their customers and defraud their shareholders, then fired and blackballed staff who complained:

https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2016/09/26/495454165/ex-wells-fargo-employees-sue-allege-they-were-punished-for-not-breaking-law

The executive who ran that swindle got a $125 million bonus:

https://www.nakedcapitalism.com/2016/09/wells-fargo-ceos-teflon-don-act-backfires-at-senate-hearing-i-take-full-responsibility-means-anything-but.html

And the CEO got $200 million:

https://money.cnn.com/2016/09/21/investing/wells-fargo-fired-workers-retaliation-fake-accounts/index.html

It's not like Wells Fargo treats its workers badly but does well by everyone else. Remember, those fake accounts existed as part of a fraud on the company's investors. The company went on to steal $76m from its customers on currency conversions. They also foreclosed on customers who were up to date on their mortgages, seizing and selling off all their possessions. They argued that when bosses pressured tellers into forging customers on fraudulent account-opening paperwork, that those customers had lost their right to sue, since the fraudulent paperwork had a binding arbitration clause. When they finally agreed to pay restitution to their victims, they made the payments opt-in, ensuring that most of the millions of people they stole from would never get their money back.

They stole millions with fraudulent "home warranties." They stole millions from small businesses with fake credit-card fees. They defrauded 800,000 customers through an insurance scam, and stole 25,000 customers' cars with illegal repos. They led the pre-2008 pack on mis-selling deceptive mortgages that blew up and triggered the foreclosure epidemic. They loaned vast sums to Trump, who slashed their taxes, and then they fired 26.000 workers and did a $40.6B stock buyback. They stole 525 homes from mortgage borrowers and blamed it on a "computer glitch":

https://pluralistic.net/2021/09/29/jubilance/#too-big-to-jail

Given all this, two things are obvious: first, if anyone is going to be monitored for crimes, fraud and scams, it should be Wells Fargo, not its workers. Second, Wells Fargo's surveillance system exists solely to terrorize workers, not to help them. As Wells Fargo United writes:

We demand improved safety precautions that are not punitive or cause further stress for employees. The solution is not more monitoring, but ensuring that we are all connected to a supportive work environment instead of warehoused away in a back office.

Tor Books as just published two new, free LITTLE BROTHER stories: VIGILANT, about creepy surveillance in distance education; and SPILL, about oil pipelines and indigenous landback.

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/09/27/sharpen-your-blades-boys/#disciplinary-technology

[bemusedlybespectacled]

Question: I enjoyed s1 OF OFMD, but for various reasons I never actually got around to watching s2 (pick up most of the plot from tumblr tho). What exactly went wrong in s2 that got so many people upset?

Oh, boy. Very long rant incoming.

So, for context, S2 had a significantly smaller budget, which necessitated moving the filming location to union-unfriendly New Zealand, reducing the number of actors/number of appearances of established actors, and cutting down the number of episodes from 10 to 8. In a show where each episode is only about half an hour long, that last one alone was enough to seriously hamper any character development or plot. I am very comfortable putting the vast majority of the blame on HBO because of these financial decisions.

The short version is that Jenkins et. al. needed to address and build on the problems left hanging in S1 while also getting the characters to the end of their character trajectories in case there was no S3 while also leaving room for additional episodes in case there was a S3, in a grand total of four hours, and failed.

The long version is that there were a bunch of what I'd consider small problems in isolation that came together and exploded in the S2 finale.

The reduced cast necessitated breaking up the crew (ex: having Swede marry Jackie and stay on land with her, so they don't need to pay Nat Faxon for all eight episodes) and not spending as much time on their relationships as S1 did.

The reduced time meant that the entire season was rushed (in contrast to S1, which takes place over at least several weeks if not months, most of S2 takes place in roughly five days), leading both to a lot of telling rather than showing (because they don't have time to show you), including vital character and relationship development.

This includes:

Having the Kraken half of the crew beat Ed to death after months of being abused by him – abuse that is clearly shown to have given them PTSD and a well-justified fear and hatred of him – only for them to be okay with him two in-universe days later;

On that note, having Stede dismiss the crew's concerns about Ed because he loves him and also we only have three more episodes left to fit in everything so we need to get over it really fast, even though Stede is supposed to be well-meaning and caring (even if he's not good at it all the time);

Resolving the issue of Stede abandoning Ed in one day, then having them "go slowly" in their relationship for two days and then have some spur-of-the-moment sex, and then the next afternoon have them break up over their diverging career aspirations, and then the day after that resolve that problem and retire on land while the rest of the crew sails off into the sunset;

Stede becoming a fantastic pirate captain over the course of one day, becoming wildly popular in the piracy world two days later, and then deciding the day after that to never be a captain again because he is retiring with Ed;

Having Ed and Stede decide to retire together as what is implied to be the end point of their relationship arc, when none of Stede's issues from S1, like his poor self-esteem, have been so much as mentioned by anyone, implying that he's either magically gotten over them or they don't matter all that much, actually, even though they were the catalyst for basically everything he did in S1;

Ed having two separate character crises – "I am an unlovable person" and "I want to do something with my life other than piracy" – not spending a lot of time on either one, having moments that clearly indicate he is still working on both problems and they have not been resolved, and then apparently having them both be resolved in the final episode despite nothing occurring to actually make that happen, and in regards to the latter, despite the story actively undermining it by repeatedly showing he can't do anything other than piracy;

Related to the above, Ed ending the series as allegedly being loved by the crew as a family (thus solving Crisis #1) despite this never actually being shown, demonstrated, or even fucking alluded to onscreen. If anything, it shows the exact opposite.

This last point is especially galling to me because of what is probably the most divisive issue in the fandom right now: killing off Izzy Hands after giving him seven episodes of character development.

The show begins with the Kraken crew clearly trying to use the skills they learned as part of Stede's crew to cope with their incredibly shitty situation and care for each other, which includes Izzy. Izzy, on his end, tries to protect the crew and speak up for them, which results in him being repeatedly hurt (both implicitly, as Ed at one point says "that's another toe" in response to Izzy advocating for the crew and we later see he's missing more than one toe already, and explicitly, as Ed shoots him in the fucking leg in front of the crew when he stands up for them).

This camaraderie is shown again and again and again. Frenchie, Jim, and Archie take care of Izzy while his leg is infected, at risk to their own lives. Izzy's misery over losing his leg is what unites the PTSD-ridden Kraken crew and the well-meaning-but-ignorant-of-PTSD marooned crew, who are initially at odds, to make him a new prosthetic leg. Izzy gives Lucius advice about forgiving Ed. Izzy is introduced to drag and opens up enough to sing at a crew party, and the whole crew is having fun together while Ed and Stede are in their cabin having sex for the first time. Izzy gives Stede pirate captain lessons and bonds with him when Ed leaves him. Izzy provokes the season's villain into focusing on him and then gives a big speech about how piracy is about belonging to something, giving the rest of the crew time to try to escape.

Recall that Season 1 had some pretty well-established universe rules, one of which was that it runs on Muppet physics/magical realism. People can jump off yardarms, hit the side on the way down, and be perfectly fine. People can get stabbed in the liver and it's totally okay because it's probably not that important, and even can stay pinned to a mast all night that way with only mild discomfort. Buttons can talk to birds and see long distances without a spyglass and put hexes on people. Good people can be hurt (Stede is stabbed repeatedly), bad people can die (the Badmintons, Geraldo), but no one we care about is ever killed.

This is repeated in Season 2: Ed is beaten into a coma with a cannonball and wakes up like Sleeping Beauty after a spirit journey, with no injuries to his face or body. Buttons turns into a seagull after spending an episode doing a magic ritual and is never seen again (because they couldn't keep paying Ewen Bremner due to the budget cuts). Jackie microdoses her husbands with poison to build up their immunity, so that she can later pull a Dread Pirate Westley and poison the British with shared drinks.

So: in the finale, the villain of the season is taken hostage by the pirates (for reasons? unclear how that fits in the plan), happens to have a gun on him (no one checked??), shoots Izzy on the right side and then leaves with no repercussions. The entire crew stands around silently doing nothing while Ed cries over Izzy and tells him that he's his only family.

And Izzy fucking Hands, the guy who just spent eight episodes bonding with and protecting everyone, uses his last words to reassure Ed that him becoming Blackbeard/the Kraken was Izzy's fault and that the crew is Ed's family and they all love him. No one else says anything to Izzy or tries to comfort him or help him in any way.

I repeat: in a show predicated on the idea that bullies and bigots die stupid deaths while queer people and POC are basically magic, a show that was praised for being kind to queer people by not making them worry about their faves suffering or dying, a show founded on the strength of the relationships between the characters, the guy who went through a season-long arc of learning to embrace his pirate found family and his own queerness is shot for stupid reasons on the side we're told isn't important and dies while everyone just stands there. His last words are about the whole crew loving Ed when the only person that the whole crew has loved all season is him.

Anyway, never mind all that, let's cut to Lucius and Pete getting married and Stede and Ed retiring!

Complicating all this is that people who liked Izzy (or even said anything insufficiently mean about Izzy) were harassed for months in between seasons with insults, slurs, and actual fucking death threats. Izzy's growth was kind of a vindication for liking him: it meant that, despite all the harassment, we were right to like him and care about him as a character. Even people who didn't like him initially started to like him during Season 2.

And then he dies, and now there's a bunch of people saying that Izzy fans are big whiny babies who can't handle fictional death, and actually his death was so meaningful and beautiful and the only logical end to his arc, and it can't be bad writing because people die in real life all the time, and also he admitted he fed Ed's darkness so actually he was a terrible person all along anyway and they were right to hate him (and his fans)!

So, yeah, there are a lot of reasons why it's so hated, and I'm probably only addressing the problems of the pro-Izzy people (from what I can tell, BlackBonnet shippers who don't like Izzy think Ed and Stede's relationship is fine and dandy, but I'm sure that there are other criticisms they have that I have not addressed). I'm not even addressing the issues with Jim and Oluwande's relationship this season (and whooo boy are there issues).

It wasn't a universally bad season. There were episodes I really loved and still do. But the finale was a train wreck, and because it was a train wreck, a lot of people are looking back at what happened before the wreck and realizing that, oh, the train lost its brakes and steering because of the budget cuts and the engineers kept throwing fuel in the engine to make it go faster, and huh, now that I think of it, that part earlier in the trip was really wobbly but I didn't pay much attention to it at the time because I was sure the engineers had everything covered.

[djarins-cyare]

✭ Series Masterlist ✭

Languishing in a dull and lonely existence on the forest moon of Endor after travelling there to help salvage Death Star wreckage, a nearly fatal encounter with a mysterious bounty hunter out in the forest heralds an opportunity to utilise long-forgotten skills and develop something more profound than you ever thought possible.

Second person POV, present tense. Set post-season 2, diverges from Canon events before TBoBF and season 3. This is a novel-length, exceptionally slow burn with an original plot, worldbuilding, and fully-developed characterisation. SWU concepts and lore are accurately researched.

WORDS: 406,690

PAIRING: Din Djarin x Female Reader/You

RATING: Explicit (18+)

CHARACTERS: Din Djarin, Reader/You/Female OC, Original Non-Human Character(s), Original Human Characters, Greef Karga, Cara Dune, Leia Organa, Luke Skywalker, Grogu, Peli Motto

TAGS: Slow Burn, Slow Build, Romance, Love, Sexual Tension, Eventual Smut, Smut, Sex, Sexual Content, Explicit Sexual Content, Fluff, Fluff and Smut, Fluff and Angst, Light Angst, Hurt/Comfort, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, Relationships, Healthy Relationships, Canon-Typical Violence, Blood and Injury, Dark Past, Additional Warnings In Author's Notes, Bounty Hunter Din Djarin, Soft Din Djarin, Touch-Starved Din Djarin, Din Djarin Needs a Hug, Smart Din Djarin, Soft Dominant Din Djarin, Ewok Species, Mandalorian Culture, Mando'a Language, New Razor Crest, Thoroughly Researched, Worldbuilding, No use of y/n.

AUTHOR'S NOTE: This took me almost a year to write and four months to edit/proof. Each chapter is prefaced with specific tags and (where necessary) warnings, plus word counts. End notes contain translations and comments… this baby is thoroughly researched, so I’m sharing context where appropriate. I’ve also added definitions of in-universe terms so people less familiar with the franchise won’t be left wondering what the hell certain words or references mean. This is a slow burn (adult themes), and although the explicit content only occurs in the latter half, when it does, it warrants the ‘E’ rating. Basically, the first half is a love story, and the second half gets spicy. I hope you enjoy it!

READ THE COMPLETE STORY ON AO3:

(Chapters containing explicit content marked †)

Chapter 1: The Obstacle

Chapter 2: The Interrogation

Chapter 3: The Covenant

Chapter 4: The Snare

Chapter 5: The Strike

Chapter 6: The Groundwork

Chapter 7: The Genesis

Chapter 8: The Progression

Chapter 9: The Hide

Chapter 10: The Beast

Chapter 11: The Adjustment

Chapter 12: The Storm

Chapter 13: The Broadside

Chapter 14: The Intercourse

Chapter 15: The Village

Chapter 16: The Confession

Chapter 17: The Reprieve

Chapter 18: The Fortification

Chapter 19: The Ambush

Chapter 20: The Meridian

Chapter 21: The Homestretch

Chapter 22: The Union †

Chapter 23: The Overture

Chapter 24: The Crescendo

Chapter 25: The Harmony †

Chapter 26: The Cadence †

Chapter 27: The Ride †

Chapter 28: The Veneration †

Chapter 29: The Spree †

Chapter 30: The Tribute †

Chapter 31: The Courage

Chapter 32: The Feast

Chapter 33: The Exhibition †

Chapter 34: The Reward

Chapter 35: The Binding †

Chapter 36: The Synergy †

Chapter 37: The Match †

Chapter 38: The Flag †

Chapter 39: The Foundling †

Chapter 40: The Future †

✨Additional Media✨

@burntheedges has written a spectacular little drabble detailing what Din was up to during the paragraph break near the end of chapter 1 (*SPOILERS* you don’t find this out until chapter 27).

@roughdaysandart has sketched a fantastic study of chapter 33 and it’s absolutely perfect (*SPOILERS* cliffhanger ending for the chapter).

@djarin-desires has created some awesome AI images of a few scenes using Midjourney.

I spent a stupid amount of money on the Hot Toys official Din Djarin action figure, simply so I could photograph him in poses from my fic 🤷🏼‍♀️ This is just a taster of what’s to come, but here he is offering to help Reader climb onto the speeder in chapter 8.

🧡💚 Thank you for reading! 💚🧡

➤ MAIN MASTERLIST

Dividers by @samspenandsword

[prettyboysdontlookatexplosions]

More critical still was the way the problem of slaves' political allegiance—a problem that had troubled Thomas Jefferson from the birth of the republic—reared up decisively in the face of Confederate politicians, policy makers, and military men, forcing them into a constant confrontation with slaves' own political objectives in the war.' The idea that a republic could be built in war without contending with the political desires of four million slaves strikes moderns as fantastic. But Confederates' hubris on this account is stunning, especially given the troubling hemispheric history in which they operated. For the relationship between war and emancipation weighed heavily on every slave power in the nineteenth century. Since the late eighteenth century, slave regimes at war and chronically short of men had been forced into negotiations with their own slaves, usually to recruit them as soldiers, often on condition of emancipation. In that hemispheric history Saint-Domingue, or Haiti, was the critical case. Confederates were haunted by the history of that island. Indeed, many Southerners embraced secession precisely to avoid the fate of whites in that (to them) dystopian post-emancipation society. But it wasn't just white Confederates who looked to Saint-Domingue. Confederate slaves did too, drawing the opposite lesson that in the maelstrom of war, slaves had been able to fight for their own emancipation and the wholesale destruction of the institution of slavery. Confederate slaves were entirely alert to the meaning of national and international developments. Would the C.S.A. manage to escape the fate of other slave regimes at war? The two remaining slave regimes in the hemisphere, Cuba and Brazil, attended carefully to the answer.

The idea that Southern slaves shaped the history of the American Civil War is now a foundational part of the national narrative. But that new story—about how slaves transformed a war for the Union into a war for emancipation—is really a story about the Union side in the war.' It traces out a particular historical dynamic of slaves' flight to Union lines, labor for the Union military, and eventual enlistment in the armed forces of the United States. Developments in the C.S.A. are of little significance in the drama of emancipation it plots. Yet the slaves' war started in Confederate territory, was first waged against their own masters on their own plantations, and, in ways we have never really appreciated, forced constant revision not just in Union but in Confederate politics and policy. As every enslaved man, woman, and child knew, the destruction of slavery required the destruction of the slaveholders' state, with all of its horrifying national ambitions. The revolt slaves unleashed thwarted every administration attempt to make them an element of strength in war, and fundamentally shaped Confederate military labor policies. Indeed, one of the most dramatic elements of the Civil War story is how slaves compelled Confederates into a competition for the political loyalty, labor, and military service of slave men that implied the recognition of exactly the human and political personhood the proslavery republic had tried to deny. In the end, the proslavery C.S.A. would be forced down its own path to slave enlistment and partial emancipation, recapitulating elements of a struggle that had unfolded across the hemisphere since the American and French revolutions. The C.S.A. was transformed by war, and the Confederate political project was undone by those who had been taken for ciphers in it.

stephanie mccurry, confederate reckoning: politics and power in the civil war south

[kickthecan-revolution]

I spoke to my colleague at work via FaceTime for about an hour today. Corporate America as a system is rotting - the Retail industry is a mess and AI is going to make it even messier. The corporate side of everything, particularly technology in these huge conglomerations - it's all falling apart. It BARELY works as a system.

I think the real health could potentially be found in small businesses and for sure the trades - if I had kids, I'd be giving the opposite push my parents gave me. Go to a four year college I guess if you want the experience, it's good for some stuff - but the mandatory experience I'd require as a parent is learning a trade. Be an electrician, a dry waller, a plumber, learn how to build a house. become a great sewer or an expert in landscape gardening for your hardy zone. Fix engines. Know how to operate heavy machinery. The CONFIDENCE people have as they master a trade is evident. Apprentice in a few but pick the one that you want to get so good at, you'll do it for a few years. That's where the steady money is, the respect for work, the freedom of schedule. The unions which are fantastic (most of the time.) Maybe photography but everyone's a photographer these days. They are such confidence builders and the demand is outrageous. It's honorable work though defining which work is honorable or not feels a little gross. It’s just work.

I should give this advice to myself.

I spent the rest of the day working on my taxes. I have to fill out these tax forms for long-term disability so sent some stuff to my tax person to see if she could help - she's retiring in November so I was nervous if she would be up for it, I didn't know how complicated it would be. Turns out it's complicated, I pretty much need to get all of the stuff ready for my tax return now. The upside is that I'll essentially know what my taxes will be next year which will be good for me mentally, that's always a super stressful time for me for some reason. She gave me a lot of homework to do which took several hours with my foggy brain, I pretty much did it laying in my bed with food positioned on my chest occasionally like George Castanza eating a block of cheese on the sofa. Food is still a little gross but the nausea from not eating is grosser.

Next week, I don't have a lot of appointments. Bud has her vet appointment for her heart and then she has a dentist appointment the week after that on the same day I get my first post chemo infusion, I have to drop her off in the morning, poor thing. My friend A will be here in the event I'm not back from the appointment, it's just two hours but it's at noon so she can go fetch her if needed, the vet is literally across the water channel, a 5 minute walk. So fortunate. Then we'll know what's going on with her. I hope she's OK.

[gamebird]

Murderathin Rec List

Revised for fall of 2024

As compiled by the denizens of the New Tideland MB/G channel! The greatest hits of TMBD's most popular frenemy ship - the fics that got us into it, and the fics we made because of it. "PR" are quotes from us as we talked back and forth about what was awesome about the fic, or from AO3 comments. All works are complete except Enemies, Closer and If Statements.

The Long Emergency by murderbot Words: 56,866 Rating: Teen and Up Summary: Trapped on the survey planet when the last emergency beacon fails, Murderbot and the PreservationAux team scramble to survive deadly fauna, cruel weather, scarce resources, and GrayCris's armed hunting parties. In a grueling ordeal spanning two planetary years, Murderbot becomes closer to its humans than it ever thought possible. PR: “the absolute ur-Murderathin fic”, “an absolute stunner”, “that’s the one that got me into the ship”, "This fic is amazing! Murderbot's voice and everyone's characterizations were so on-point, and all of the details of their survival on this planet and the action scenes were so well-fleshed out.", "The first MB/G fic on AO3!"

Recollection by murderbot Words: 30,753 Rating: Teen and Up Summary: SecUnit and Gurathin agree to be married, temporarily, for ease of travel during an assignment. After a violent encounter and a bad wormhole jump, they crash land on a habitable planet and discover their entire ship is suffering from amnesia. Nobody remembers anything from their past. The ship's records are badly scrambled. The planet is too far for anyone to reach safely. When Gurathin and SecUnit find the record that indicates they are married, they build a life together as marital partners, not knowing their union is based on a lie. PR: “I love pain”, “It absolutely broke me”, “still haunts me”, “wonderful”, " I'm so full of bittersweet emotions", "I was this close to crying for a few chapters, and the ending was perfect."

Enemies, Closer by Abacura, Gamebird, IHopedTheredBeStars, opalescent_potato, Rosewind2007, theAsh0 Words: 134,190 (WIP) Rating: Teen and Up Summary: When a Combat SecUnit with identical genetics to Murderbot is sent to Preservation Station to commit a massacre, the delicate balance between Murderbot, ART, and Dr. Gurathin shifts, putting all four of them on a collision course. PR: “a wonder and a delight”, “my favorite one”, "Rock-Paper-Scissors dom dynamics in which ART is the secret fourth option, Dynamite", "Can't wait for more!", "A monumental collaboration!"

Boots by opalescent_potato Words: 5,762 Rating: General Audiences Summary: Murderbot learns a little more than it wanted to about Gurathin's mysterious past. PR: “such a great, quiet study in emotional intimacy and shared trauma. Also has an absolutely amazing Oh. Oh no moment.”, "this feels like the realest depiction of poverty trauma I've ever seen in fanfic", "Info dumping as a love language. Learning self care from the most particular human."

No Peace/No Rest by IHopedTheredBeStars Words: 4,363 Rating: Teen and Up Summary: Though Dr Gurathin eventually accepts the addition of SecUnit a.k.a. Murderbot to PreservationAux, and even assists in its recovery & rehabilitation after the corporate gunship debacle, he never warms up to it like the others do—at least according to our unreliable narrator, Murderbot itself! Let’s assume Murderbot is right this time. So what’s up with that?? This story takes place (chronologically) after Fugitive Telemetry and just before Network Effect. PR: “an excellent MB&G fic”, "So many fantastic ideas in here", "This is such a great look at grappling with the guilt of having taken a life, and being stripped of that comforting denial that it wasn't a person."

The Last Client by Gamebird Words: 70,290 (series) Rating: Explicit Summary: A series with the premise of 'What if GrayCris had attacked PresAux first instead of DeltFall?' In the first, Last Client Standing, Dr. Gurathin is the only PresAux survivor, with Murderbot protecting him from GrayCris' continuing efforts to eliminate them entirely. In the second, Who Guards the Guardian?, they return to Preservation where they must come to terms with how much they, and events, have changed. PR: “Gah! Gurathin and Sec having to navigate ALL the emotions. I’m… (no better way to say it) ded. I am ded. De d ded." "Man the image of Murderbot dragging itself along with no working legs almost this whole fic and still managing to fight off a good chunk of GrayCris." "So many emotional moments, happy, sad, bittersweet, as they worked through their grief and what they mean to each other."

Gurathin’s Side of the Story by Gamebird Words: 51,849 Rating: Teen and Up Summary: A retelling of The Murderbot Diaries from Gurathin's point of view. PR: “An incredible character study that adds so much depth to Gurathin. The reader falls in love with him every step of the way (and Murderbot does too)”, "There are so many moments where this story just drop-kicks me with how real it is.", "a lovely view into Gurathin‘s CR background, augments, and his soft belly under that armadillo shell."

Faking It For Real by Gamebird Words: 1,571 Rating: Explicit Summary: Murderbot does a bad job of pretending to be Gurathin's ComfortUnit on a mission, until it figures out how to be better at it. PR: “the one where everyone's playing it cool but the feet are paddling madly beneath the surface" "I know this is a cracky premise but it sure is hot!" "the sexy frisking is definitely hot" "HOT DAMN"

Boots by Gnomeskillet Words: 2,797 Rating: General Audiences Summary: "I'm going to fix your boots," he explained, talking to me like I was a small human child that didn't know anything. At least he kept his eyes on the floor while he did it. "They're a mess and if you want them to last longer, then you need to take care of them." PR: “this entire fic got me", "Omg who knew shoe shines could be so full of tension??", "This was sort of in kink no man's land, in between the barbed wire embankments of desire and fulfillment."

It Was Only A Kiss by Gnomeskillet Words: 2,102 Rating: Teen and Up Summary: Frustrated and desperate, Murderbot hauls Gurathin into an alleyway and makes out with him in order to avoid Station Security. Hey, it has a 100% success rate in media! PR: “excellent”, “Incredibly sexy and very sweet.”, "Dom Murderbot absolutely wrecking Gurathin while not really knowing what the hell it's doing is my favorite flavor"

Pressing Down On Me, Pressing Down On You by Gnomeskillet Words: 1,061 Rating: Not Rated Summary: I was just thinking about MB pressing down on Gurathin's augments like how ART presses down on MB in the feed, and I like thinking about MB being tsundere about taking care of its least favorite augmented human. It doesn't LIKE Gurathin, he's just less annoying this way. PR: “ahhh yes this one was absolutely one of the ones that made me go OHHHH. It made me so invested in their relationship”, "Poor Gurathin doesn't know what he's getting into, good thing Murderbot is so nice XD", "I love the idea of cuddling in the feed."

Just to Suffer the Pressure by Chyoatas Words: 2,113 Rating: Explicit Summary: He was already out of breath when he let his hand press to his throat. (That hadn’t been in the original plan. This was already too close- too fraught. It was already embarrassing enough (and hotter for it, but he wouldn’t admit it.)) PR: “Okay we were all thinking it. There are not nearly enough fics where Murderbot erotically asphyxiates Gurathin.”, "this is insanely good holy shit", "unhinged screaming I can't form words, this is everything I want it to be"

Murderathin NSFW Zine Comic by Chyoatas Words: 1,069 Rating: Explicit Summary: My NSFW comic from the Murderbot Diaries NSFW Zine! Alternative text description of the comic is embedded in the images. PR: "So hot!", "sweet, naughty, and snarky", "So much thought went into this. The closer I look, the more details pop out at me!"

Purr by Rosewind2007 Words: 3,448 Rating: Teen and Up Summary: I saw a post by someone saying: “Wouldn’t it be nice if humans could just purr, like cats. You could let people know you were happy without talking about your feelings or anything...” And I thought: it’d be nice if Murderbot could purr. So, here you are. PR: “Ah yes, my favorite trope. Murderbot purring when it's happy!”, "MB your friends care about you!", "This was adorable and I loved it"

Sex Pollen by Rosewind2007 Words: 7,240 Rating: Teen and Up Summary: Atypical human and para-human courtship behaviors and coitus triggered by xeno-floral microgameteophytes Abstract: Twenty four (24) subjects were exposed to xeno-floral microgameteophytes (XFM). Atypical behaviors were recorded by all but two (2). PR: “the yearning”, “I love watching Murderbot and Gurathin dance around each other in this. Both trying so hard to be normal and just internally yearning to be close to each other. The longing is so palpable!”

Bundling by Rosewind2007 Words: 18,348 Rating: Teen and Up Summary: It was a stupid accident. We’d identified the presence of space debris in this sector, including pieces large enough to deflect the course of a small transport; but my Risk Assessment Module was happily burbling in the low teens (it really needs replacing, but I’m quite fond of its optimism now) and ART had calculated the risk of an actual collision as approximately 1 in 159,753. But of course we were that one. And of course the client I was with would be that one.  PR: "And thereby, Murderbot, SecUnit, discovered it loved itself.", " A wonderful story", "That last line is just so perfect"

That Time I Got Drunk and Yeeted a Love Potion at a SecUnit by Rosewind2007 Words: 14,918 Rating: Teen and Up Summary: What it says on the tin. PR: “amazing, showstopping" "oh yess oh yess oh yesss" "Murderbean. Murderbaby. You're killing me ❤️❤️❤️ Ahhhhh the ending to this was so sweet and so perfect, I'm all up in my feelings now"

The Corporate and the Construct by beeayy Words: 87,919 Rating: Teen and Up Summary: Bots and constructs have taken over the Corporate Rim. When PreservationAux is captured sneaking into AI-controlled space, someone must stay behind with the sophisticated bot-pilot that remembers a lot less than it thinks it does, and the rogue SecUnit with more anxiety and depression than anyone knows. PR: “my favorite AU”, “fantastic”, “An amazing AU. Great marriage of Fairy Tale elements with Robot Overlords.”, "This fic was such an amazing ride", "I had emotions and cried at the last chapter. Good job!"

I Hate The Way I Don’t Hate You by beeayy Words: 53,345 Rating: Teen and Up Summary: Murderbot hates Gurathin, though the reason changes on a daily basis. PR: "I love this whole thing", "These two ridiculous assholes *always* end up meeting in the middle", "I love fake marriage fics  especially when it's enemies to lovers."

Wrinkles by beeayy Words: 1,405 Rating: General Audiences Summary: There is a disavantage to being a rogue SecUnit in the long-term. Gurathin helps Murderbot through it. PR: “'my face is falling off' will stay with me forever" "This is the sweetest! I love depictions of them in an established relationship where they are clearly happy together, but also true to their nature (AKA assholes)." "This is so fricking ardorable!!!!!"

ComfortUnit!Gurathin by beeayy Words: 29,278 (series) Rating: Mature Summary: Gurathin tries to keep a secret from Murderbot while on a mission in the Corporate Rim. Or, "Heartbreaking: Your Least Favorite Co-Worker Is Secretly Hot". PR: “honestly top tier ending lmfaoo, and top tier fic" "I loved this whole damn fic and you nailed the ending." "This story was loads of fun, and the chemistry between them was so effective!"

Maintenance Protocol by Abacura Words: 5,762 Rating: Explicit Summary: I’m worried about SecUnit. This isn’t the first time I’ve caught it making a face that looks like it's in pain. I worry that it isn’t taking care of itself, that without a cubicle, it needs maintenance that it isn’t telling us about. I wish it would tell me. I wish it would let me take care of it. I could take such good care of it. PR: “smoking hot, I wholeheartedly recommend”, "The maintenance was so perfect and then it was done and I figured so was the fic but holy fuck (literally)", "This is the good stuff. This is perfect."

Fuckboy Strategy by The_Onion Words: 6,203 Rating: Not Rated Summary: 'Can you know you don’t like something without trying it?' I'd texted Ratthi. He responded, 'Sure! But trying things out is always a good idea :D' which I am sure he would not have said if he’d known what I was talking about. // Murderbot explores idioms, the ethics of ghosting, and its own sexuality. PR: “Ah yes, my favorite trope. Murderbot being an absolute bull in the china shop of Gurathin’s heart.”, "so good and so funny i am beside myself", "made me laugh out loud"

Construct, Social by kiwisson Words: 1,852 Rating: General Audiences Summary: Late-night human behavior discussions with your favorite deadly weapon. PR: “the vibes are really good”, “Perfect tag is perfect: You Jerks Talk A Lot For People Who Hate Each Other”, “a fascinating example of the first tagged MB&G which shows many themes already emerging!”

Imperfect Reactions by xianvar Words: 1,324 Rating: Teen and Up Summary: It’s a normal evening with friends – easy laughter, Bharadwaj stopping by to chat, Gurathin and Murderbot sniping at each other, Murderbot letting Gurathin tease it… wait, what? PR: “exterior POVs are always SO good”, "there's so many little characterizations in this fic and its really delightful!", "Adorable!"

If Statements by the_moonmoth Words: 36,683 (WIP) Rating: Explicit Summary: Without a cubicle to reset its endocrine system, Murderbot goes into heat. Gurathin would normally be the last person it would turn to for the kind of help it now needs, but he smells so good. PR: “hot, sexy, omegaverse action! Full of luscious art, too!" "Oh my LORD joining the freak train because this is fantastic!" "Aaaaaaaaaah *scream* *squeeeal* asddsgdhfthfj"

Recharge Cycle by SeeMaree Words: 5,023 Rating: General Audiences Summary: Murderbot just needs a quiet, comfortable place to run a recharge cycle. PR: “the one with the slippers" "i love this!!! Asshole friendship my beloved. U write them so good im soft" "I can’t believe you’re making them actually TALK to each other lmfaoooo"

Mixed Signals by firefox49 Words: 6,099 Rating: Mature Summary: While Dr. Gurathin is repairing some of Murderbot’s circuits, Murderbot makes a discovery about itself. PR: “the one that blows my fuse every time" ""Ahh I love how secunit is just like. Sex is a competition and I am going to win it" " I am that "sickos" meme going *yes hahaha YES*"

Plus One by musicofthespheres Words: 14,587 Rating: General Audiences Summary: Murderbot needs Gurathin's help, but he's busy. Turns out he has... other friends? Besides Ratthi and Pin-Lee? That doesn't sound right. Murderbot needs to get to the bottom of this. PR: “Murderbot being indignant about Gurathin having other friends is a fave" "Awwwwr i loved this so much its definitely one of my new favorites!" "Ohhh I just adore this whole thing" "they’re such a great little grumpy team"

[araiz-zaria]

The Fantastic Union General Officers' Christmas Eve Shenanigans 🎄— part II

(read part I here)

Grant: ...I know! Let's go to Thomas' place, he must be having a *normal* one!

Thomas:

😅😅😂🤣🤣🙈

[kckt88]

The Lost Dragon 2 - Unity.

Summary: Four years into the reign of Vaelys and Aemond, the war for the stepstones is re-ignited.

Warnings - Mild Angst, Mild Drama, Memories, Discussion of War, Uncle/Niece Incest, Kissing, Smut - Fingering, Multiple Orgasms, P in V Sex.

AEMOND TARGARYEN x O.C -VAELYS TARGARYEN

Word Count: 4407

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the House of The Dragon or Fire & Blood characters nor do I claim to own them. I do not own any of the images used.

Comments, likes, and reblogs are very much appreciated.

Tag List - @jasminecosmic99 @kaelatargaryen @yesterdayfeelings-blog @immyowndefender @0eessirk8 @darylandbethfanforever9

"Bravo, Vhalarr!" Aemond exclaimed, his voice filled with genuine admiration. "You're a natural with the sword. Your form is perfect."

Vhalarr beamed under his grandfather's praise, as Aemond knelt down beside him. With a gentle touch, he adjusted Vhalarr's grip on the wooden sword, offering his guidance with a smile.

"Let me show you a few moves, Vhalarr," Aemond said, his tone gentle yet authoritative. With practiced ease, he demonstrated a series of basic techniques, each executed with precision and grace.

Vhalarr watched intently, absorbing every detail with wide-eyed fascination. His grandfather's words were like pearls of wisdom, precious and invaluable.

"Now, try it yourself, Vhalarr," Aemond encouraged, stepping back to give the young prince space to practice. And practice he did, with unwavering determination, his movements mirroring those of his grandfather.

After a few attempts, Vhalarr managed to replicate the moves, a happy grin spreading across his little face. Aemond's heart swelled with pride at the sight of his grandson's progress, a testament to the boy's natural talent.

With a sense of warmth and affection, Aemond scooped Vhalarr into his arms, lifting him high above the ground. The young prince giggled with delight, his arms wrapping tightly around his grandfather's neck as he nestled into the comforting embrace.

Soon Vhalarr smiled when spotted his grandmother, babbling eagerly as he called out to her.

"Gandma! Gandma!" Vhalarr babbled excitedly, his words tumbling forth in an enthusiastic rush. "I been training with gandpa! I a sword fighter!"

Vaelys couldn't help but chuckle at her grandson's exuberance, his enthusiasm infectious and heartwarming. She took him from Aemond and cradled him close.

"Training with your grandfather already, my sweet Vhalarr?" Vaelys replied, her laughter bubbling forth like a gentle melody.

Vhalarr pouted slightly at the gentle teasing, his expression one of earnest determination. "I big, gandma! I do it!"

"He's not wrong, my love," Aemond said, his voice warm with pride as he ruffled Vhalarr's silver hair affectionately.

"I'll be just like Gandpa!"

Aemond's heart swelled with pride at his grandson's proclamation, a smile of affection gracing his lips. "That's my boy," he murmured, his voice brimming with pride. "With dedication and courage, you can achieve anything you set your mind to."

Aemond then turned to his wife, a question dancing in his eyes. "Where is our granddaughter?" he inquired, his tone laced with curiosity.

Vaelys' expression softened as she replied, "Saeryna is in the gardens with Sovia, Jaehaera and Aegon, enjoying the sunshine and the company of her cousins".

Aemond smiled as he remembered the unexpected romance that had blossomed between his niece, Jaehaera, and Vaelys' brother, Aegon. At first, the notion had seemed improbable, even fantastical, yet as time passed, their love had flourished, proving that sometimes the most unlikely matches could yield the deepest bonds.

Reflecting on their union, Aemond couldn't help but marvel at the happiness they had found together. Jaehaera, with her whimsical spirit and fierce determination, had found solace and companionship in Aegon's steadfast presence. And Aegon, with his gentle demeanour and unwavering loyalty, had found in Jaehaera a love that surpassed all expectations.

Their union had been blessed with the arrival of two daughters, Rhaelys and Elaena, who brought light and laughter into their lives.

Helaena loved being a grandmother, her two granddaughters bringing much joy into her life.

As Vaelys began tickling Vhalarr, his laughter suddenly halted by the voice of another young boy, who sneered, "Look, that man has one eye".

For a moment, silence descended upon the courtyard. Aemond, felt a pang of discomfort, accustomed though he was to the stares and whispers that followed him wherever he went.

But before anyone could react, Vhalarr shimmed from his grandmother’s grasp and stepped forward, his small frame brimming with determination. "You shush up!" he exclaimed, his voice trembling with righteous indignation. "My gandpa's brave he rides Vhagar and he’s the King-I'll chop you with my sword-"

A hush fell over the courtyard as Vhalarr's words hung in the air, his boldness drawing the attention of all who stood witness. Aemond looked on, stunned by his grandson's outburst yet unable to hide the swell of pride that welled within him.

Vaelys, too, watched with a mixture of surprise and admiration as her grandson stood up for his grandfather, his courage shining bright despite his tender age.

The other boy's mother, mortified by her son's behaviour, rushed forward to apologize. "I'm so sorry, Your Graces" she said, her voice tinged with embarrassment. "He doesn't know what he's saying. Please forgive him."

Aemond offered a gracious nod in response, his heart touched by Vhalarr's display of loyalty and courage. Though taken aback by his grandson's burst of violence, he couldn't help but feel a swell of pride that the spirit of the dragon ran strong in young Vhalarr's veins.

"No mean-" muttered Vhalarr as he stuck his tongue out at the boy.

"Vhalarr is certainly his father's son," Vaelys remarked with a soft chuckle. "Daevyn always did have a fierce sense of loyalty towards you, seems as though Vhalarr has inherited it”.

Aemond nodded in agreement, a fond smile playing on his lips. "Indeed," he replied, his voice tinged with admiration. "To see such bravery in one so young-it's remarkable.”

Vaelys nodded thoughtfully, her gaze drifting toward the courtyard where Vhalarr was now twirling his wooden sword in his hand the sound of his delighted laughter ringing out like music in the air. "He's growing up so quickly," she mused, a hint of sadness touching her features. "It seems like only yesterday he was just a babe in Sovia's arms."

Aemond placed a reassuring hand on his wife's shoulder, a silent gesture of comfort and solidarity. "He may be young, my love, but he possesses the spirit of a dragon," he said, his voice filled with conviction. "And with that fiery heart, there's no telling what he might accomplish."

Vaelys smiled, her heart warmed by her husband's words. "You're right," she agreed, her tone filled with pride. "Our grandson is destined for great things; of that I have no doubt."

After taking her usual walk around the Red Keep, nodding her head, and smiling politely at the many lords and ladies who greeted her, Vaelys came to a stop in the gardens watching silently as the sculptors worked diligently on a marble statue, their chisels carving intricate details into the stone.

Vaelys approached with quiet reverence, her heart swelling with emotion at the sight before her. There, in the centre of the garden, stood the figures of her parents, immortalized for all time.

Queen Rhaenyra, with her fierce beauty and indomitable spirit, stood tall and regal, her crown resting atop her head. Beside her stood her consort King Daemon, his features carved with a quiet strength and a hint of mischief in his eyes.

But it was the gesture that touched Vaelys' heart the most. The sculptors had captured her parents standing side by side, their hands clasped together in a gesture of eternal love and devotion.

Vaelys stood before the statue of her parents, her mind drifted back to the day her father, had departed from this world.

She remembered the heaviness in the air, the sombre atmosphere that hung over the Red Keep like a shroud. Her father's health had been failing for months, his heart and spirit broken by the loss of his beloved wife.

Vaelys had stood vigil by her father’s bedside, her heart heavy with sorrow yet filled with a profound sense of duty and love.

The memories of her father's final moments flooded her mind with bittersweet clarity. She recalled the solemnity of his voice, the strength in his gaze even as his body weakened with age and grief.

In those last moments, as Daemon's breath grew shallow and his eyes dimmed with the weight of his sorrow, he had called forth his son-in-law, with a voice that echoed with authority.

"Aemond-Take care of the family. Protect them as a dragon should."

Aemond had knelt by Daemon’s side, his gaze unwavering "I swear it," he had vowed, his voice steady with resolve. "I will defend them with my life”.

Her father’s funeral was a sombre procession through the streets of King's Landing, the air heavy with the weight of grief and loss.

The people of Kings Landing coming out in their droves to bid farewell to the Rogue Prince.

At the heart of the procession had been her father's wrapped body, laid upon a wooden pyre, with one of Rhaenyra’s shawls placed over him.

But it was the moment when Caraxes, her father's loyal dragon, had approached the pyre that had seared itself into Vaelys' memory like a brand upon her soul.

Caraxes had landed beside the pyre, his mournful whimpers lingering on the wind, originally Vermithor was going to have the honour of burning Daemn’s body, but Caraxes had ignited the pyre with a burst of flame.

His ashes were later placed with her mother's in the crypts.

In the wake of her father’s passing, Caraxes had withdrawn to the shadows of the Dragon pit, his once majestic form shrouded in sorrow, his mournful cries echoing through the ancient halls.

For weeks, Caraxes had lingered in solitude, his grief a palpable presence that hung heavy in the air. But then, a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness had occurred.

It was the day that Vhalarr, her grandson, had come into the world. As if sensing the newborn's arrival, Caraxes had descended from the sky with a whistle and a shriek, his blood-red scales gleaming in the sunlight.

Helaena, ever wise and mysterious in her ways, had suggested that Daevyn, bring the newborn prince to Caraxes who had refused point blank to leave the courtyard.

Everyone watched with bated breath as Daevyn approached Caraxes with Vhalarr swaddled in his arms.

Sovia who was still recovering from giving birth had insisted on watched from the balcony of her chambers.

Daevyn unfurled his son from his blanket and held him towards Caraxes who lowered his head with a gentleness that belied his fearsome nature, his low rumbles and purrs igniting a spark between them.

Even more so when Vhalarr reached out and placed his little hand on Caraxes snout, with the dragon accepting him as his new rider, and from that day onwards Caraxes no longer lived in his sorrow and solitude.

The skies often alive with the sounds of his unique song as he flew overhead.

Perhaps it was actually Vhalarr's claim of Caraxes that had contributed to her grandson’s fiery nature, a reflection of the dragon's own fierce spirit.

One she hoped her father would be proud of.

As the members of the Small Council settled into their seats, the atmosphere in the council chambers grew sombre, the weight of the realm's concerns pressing upon them.

“There are troubling reports coming in from the Stepstones. It seems that the Triarchy is growing restless, and rumours of unrest are spreading like wildfire” said Jace.

Lord Thaddeus Rowan furrowed his brow in concern. "Unrest in the Stepstones could spell trouble for the entire realm," he remarked, his voice tinged with apprehension. "If the Triarchy were to rise up in rebellion, it could destabilize trade routes and threaten the security of our coastal regions."

Isembard Arryn, nodded in agreement. "Indeed," he concurred, his expression grave. "The Stepstones are a vital strategic location for trade and commerce. If they were to fall into chaos, it could have dire consequences for our economy."

"We cannot allow the Triarchy to threaten the peace and stability of the realm. We must take action to quell this uprising before it escalates further,” said Daevyn.

Alysanne Blackwood nodded her head. "I agree" she said, her voice calm yet authoritative. "We must send a strong message to the Triarchy that any attempts to disrupt the peace will be met with swift and decisive action."

Vaelys and Aemond exchanged a meaningful glance, silently communicating their shared resolve to address this threat to the realm's stability.

“While the threat of the Triarchy launching a direct attack on Driftmark may be unlikely, we cannot ignore the potential impact on our trade routes."

Jace leaned forward, his expression grave as he continued, "Driftmark serves as a key hub for maritime trade in the Narrow Sea. Should the Triarchy become bold enough to disrupt trade routes in the region, it could have far-reaching consequences for the economies of the entire realm."

Jace paused, allowing his words to sink in before pressing on, "Other settlements along the coast, such as Storm's End, are also vulnerable to attacks from the Triarchy should they grow bold enough."

His gaze swept across the table, meeting the eyes of each councillor in turn. "We must take pre-emptive measures to safeguard our trade routes and coastal settlements," he urged, his voice firm with determination. "We cannot afford to underestimate the threat posed by the Triarchy"

Vaelys turned to her husband, seeking his counsel on the matter at hand. "What do you recommend, Aemond?" she asked, her voice tinged with a sense of urgency.

Aemond's gaze met hers, his expression grave yet resolute. "My love," he began, his voice carrying the weight of his conviction, "I believe the best defence is a good offense. We have dragons at our disposal-“

He leaned forward, his eye blazing with determination. "-The Triarchy has been a recurring problem for years, disrupting trade and sowing chaos wherever they go," he continued. "It's time they faced the consequences of their actions. We should use our dragons to destroy them once and for all, to ensure that they can never threaten our realm again."

Vaelys considered his words carefully, knowing that the decision they made would have far-reaching implications for the realm. Yet she couldn't deny the logic of Aemond's argument. The Triarchy had proven themselves to be a persistent threat one her father had previously dealt with alongside Lord Corlys, and it was time to put an end to their reign of terror once and for all.

"Very well," she said, her voice firm with resolve. "Let us gather our forces and prepare to strike. The Triarchy will learn that House Targaryen is not to be trifled with."

“I will lead the attack with Vhagar at my side." Said Aemond firmly.

A murmuring of agreement rippled through the room as the councillors nodded in approval. Vhagar, the largest and most formidable of their dragons, was indeed the ideal choice for such a mission.

"I will also accompany you" declared Vaelys, her gaze unwavering.

Aemond's brow furrowed in concern as he turned to face his wife. "No, Vaelys," he said firmly, his tone brooking no argument. "You must remain in King's Landing. Your presence is needed here"

Vaelys' eyes flashed with indignation, her fists clenching at her sides. "And what of my duty to our people?" she demanded; her voice tinged with anger. "What kind of Queen am I, if I'm not willing to risk my life to fight for them?"

Her words hung in the air, a challenge to her husband's decision, a testament to her unwavering resolve.

Aemond sighed heavily, his expression softening with understanding. "You are a brave and noble Queen, my love," he conceded, his voice tinged with regret. "But your place is here, ensuring the safety and well-being of our people. I cannot bear the thought of you risking your life”

Vaelys met his gaze, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "I am not some weak coward to be sheltered away," she insisted, her voice trembling with emotion. "I am a Targaryen, and I will fight alongside my husband to defend our realm."

"Vaelys, please," implored Aemond, "You know the dangers of battle. I cannot bear the thought of anything happening to you."

But Vaelys remained steadfast, her resolve unyielding. "I will not be coddled like some fragile flower," she declared, her voice ringing with defiance. "I am a dragon rider, just like you. The blood of Daemon Targaryen flows through my veins”.

"Your Grace-Aemond, if you insist on leading the attack, then allow me to accompany you with Vermax," offered Jace, his voice filled with sincerity.

But Vaelys shook her head adamantly, her eyes flashing with determination. "No," she said firmly, her voice brooking no argument. "I will not be left behind while my husband faces danger. I will fight alongside Aemond-“

Aemond's heart swelled with pride at his wife's unwavering courage, yet his concern for her safety remained unabated. "Vaelys, please," he pleaded once more, his voice tinged with desperation. "I cannot bear the thought of losing you-“

But Vaelys remained resolute, her eyes blazing with determination. "Aemond, we are stronger together," she insisted, her voice soft yet unwavering. "Let us face this threat side by side, as equals, as partners, as Targaryen’s-I trust Sovia and Daevyn to remain steadfast in Kings Landing during our absence, with Alysanne to guide them”.

With a heavy sigh, Aemond nodded in resignation, knowing that he could not dissuade his determined wife.

“We will keep things in order mother-this I swear” said Sovia firmly as Daevyn nodded.

"At the end of the week, then," Aemond declared, his voice firm with conviction. "We will launch our attack on the Triarchy and put an end to their reign of terror once and for all."

Vaelys nodded in agreement, her eyes gleaming with determination. "We will strike swiftly and decisively," she affirmed, her voice tinged with urgency.

"I will coordinate our naval forces to support the attack from the sea," Jace pledged, his voice steady with resolve. "Together, we will ensure the success of our mission”.

“We will meet tomorrow to discuss the plans more in depth-and send word to the dragon keepers I want the dragons well fed and rested” said Aemond.

“Good, now all of you clear the room-I wish to have a private word with my consort” ordered Vaelys.

The sounds of chairs scraping against the stone, echoed around the room, the council members eyeing each other curiously.

Daeron lingered for a moment before he too shuffled out of the room.

Vaelys waited until the door clicked shut behind him and when she was finally alone with Aemond, her demeanour shifted, her eyes flashing with a fierce intensity.

In one swift motion, she rounded on him, her hand reaching out to grasp his cock and balls in a vice-like grip. Aemond grimaced in pain, caught off guard by her sudden aggression.

"Never again-" Vaelys hissed through clenched teeth, her voice low and dangerous. "-Will you seek to undermine my authority"

Aemond winced, the pain radiating through his body as he struggled to find his voice. "Vaelys, please," he gasped, his words coming out in a strained whisper. "I meant no disrespect."

But Vaelys' grip only tightened, her gaze cold and unyielding. "You will learn to respect my authority," she declared, her voice filled with steel. "You will learn that I am not to be trifled with."

With a final squeeze, she released him, letting him stumble back in pain. Aemond sank back onto his chair, his breath coming in ragged gasps as he struggled to compose himself.

"Remember my love-" Vaelys warned, her voice echoing in the empty room. "-I will not tolerate insubordination from anyone, least of all my own husband."

As Aemond nodded in silent acquiescence, Vaelys turned and strode from the room, leaving him to nurse his aching yet half hard cock.

Later that night, Aemond hesitantly entered their shared chambers. His footsteps echoed softly against the cool stone floors as he approached the doors leading to their bedchamber.

With a hesitant hand, he pushed open the doors, revealing the warm glow of candlelight flickering within. The sound of water softly lapping against the sides of the tub filled the room, and there, in the centre of it all, was Vaelys, lounging in the bath.

Her eyes met his as he entered, and for a moment, the weight of their earlier altercation hung heavy between them. But then, with a soft sigh, Vaelys motioned for him to approach.

Aemond stepped closer, his movements cautious as he approached the edge of the tub. The hot steam enveloped him, soothing his frayed nerves.

His gaze lingering on her bare breasts, his cock stirring in his breeches.

"Join me," Vaelys said softly, her voice a gentle invitation. "Let us put this day behind us and enjoy the peace of the night together."

Aemond nodded and began to disrobe, the weight of the day's events slowly slipping away with each piece of clothing he shed.

Without a word, Vaelys slid forward in the bath, making room for him behind her. Aemond hesitated for a moment, the water rippling softly around him as he lowered himself into the hot embrace of the bath.

As he settled in behind her, Vaelys leaned back against his chest, letting out a contented sigh as she closed her eyes. Aemond wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close, his touch gentle yet reassuring.

After a moment of comfortable silence, Queen Vaelys shifted slightly in Aemond's embrace, her voice soft with sincerity. "Aemond," she began, her tone gentle yet remorseful, "I owe you an apology."

Aemond's arms tightened around her, a silent gesture of understanding and forgiveness. "Vaelys, there's no need," he started, but she gently interrupted him.

"No, please, let me speak," she insisted, turning slightly to meet his gaze. "I shouldn't have handled the situation earlier the way I did. I was-rash and aggressive"

“Vaelys-“

"I know you meant no disrespect, and I shouldn't have reacted so harshly," she continued, her voice tinged with regret. "You are my husband, my partner, and you deserve to be treated with kindness and respect, even in moments of disagreement."

Aemond's expression softened as he listened to her apology, his heart swelling with love and understanding. "Vaelys, my love," he said gently, pressed a kiss to her neck "There's nothing to forgive. We both said and did things in the heat of the moment that we regret, but what matters is that we move forward, together”.

“A-Aemond-” muttered Vaelys as he began to lather soap on her body.

"Vaelys-“he began, his voice gentle yet earnest, "I owe you an apology as well. I realize now that I was wrong to insist that you stay behind in King's Landing."

“I-I-“ gasped Vaelys her breath hitching in her throat as she felt her husband’s hard cock pressed against her.

"You are not some weakling woman to be sheltered away. You are the Queen, and you are more than capable of facing whatever challenges come your way."

“Aemond-“

“-My wife. My Vaelys-” muttered Aemond as he began peppering kisses on the back of her neck whilst he continued to run his soapy hands all over her body.

“Oooh you-“ moaned Vaelys when she felt her husband’s hand reach further down, his fingers beginning to tease her folds.

“But I need you to understand, Vaelys, that being Queen comes with a level of responsibility that cannot be taken lightly," he explained. "I only wanted to protect you, to ensure that you remain safe and secure while I face the dangers ahead."

His finger’s continuing to tease her, slowly.

"I-I know, Aemond," she replied softly, her voice filled with forgiveness. "And I appreciate your concern for my well-being”

Aemond smiled, his teeth nipping at her neck, as he slipped a finger inside her.

“A-Aemond-Oh-please-“ whimpered Vaelys.

“Hmmm-how I love to hear my Queen beg-“ growled Aemond, his thumb now encircling her pearl.

Vaelys reached back and coiled her hands in her husbands long silver hair, her hips rocking against his hand.

“Issa valzȳrys-issa dārys” (My husband-my King).

“That’s it-“ encouraged Aemond, as he added another finger.

“Please-Aemond” begged Vaelys.

“Come for me issa dāria” whispered Aemond (My Queen).

“Aemond-“ shrieked Vaelys her body going rigid as she peaked.

"I love you more than words can express. You are the light of my life, the beating of my heart” muttered Aemond as he withdrew his hand and pressed his face into his wife’s shoulder.

“A-Aemond” stuttered Vaelys.

“What is it my love-what do you need?” asked Aemond smirking.

Vaelys lifted her hips and reached behind her to take hold of Aemond’s hard cock.

After teasing her husband with a few slow strokes, Vaelys lowered herself onto him.

“You-I need you inside me” whispered Vaelys.

Aemond groaned loudly when Vaelys was fully seated in his lap, his hands grasping his wife’s hips tightly as he began to move.

"I couldn't bear the thought of something happening to you," he admitted, his voice catching with emotion. "The very idea of a world without you in it is unbearable to me."

Vaelys gripped the sides of the bathtub for support as Aemond began thrusting into her. The water splashing over the edge as the force of Aemond’s thrusts increased.

Vaelys' eyes glistened with tears as she listened to his heartfelt words. Aemond continued, his voice trembling with raw emotion. "My heart, my soul, they belong to you," he declared, his love pouring forth like a river overflowing its banks. "Without you, I am nothing. You are my everything, Vaelys”.

Aemond loved fucking Vaelys from behind. She was so perfect. He loved her soft body and would never tire of feeling her wet heat wrapped around him.

“I love you, Aemond-I love you" she whispered, her voice filled with warmth and affection.

Vaelys rocked her hips backwards in time with Aemond’s thrusts. Her loud moans echoed around their bed chambers.

“ñuhon” growled Aemond (Mine).

“A-Aemond. Yes. Yes. H-Husband” whined Vaelys as Aemond shifted slightly and began thrusting deeper inside her.

“I want to stuff my cock deep inside you and never leave” moaned Aemond.

“Aemond. P-Please” cried Vaelys as she felt Aemond sucking on her neck.

“Take it. Take all of me” groaned Aemond.

Vaelys began convulsing around him, making the sweetest noises as Aemond began fucking her harder.

His fingers digging into the flesh of her hips, he was close so close, just a little more-

Aemond held Vaelys tight to him as his cock throbbed, spilling his seed.

“My love. My sweet” exclaimed Aemond as Vaelys sagged against him.

"Looks like we've flooded our chambers-" muttered Vaelys.

"Tomorrows problem I can assure you-right now I just want to take my Queen to bed-" replied Aemond.

"Is once not enough for my insaitable husband?" asked Vaelys gasping as she felt his cock twitching inside her.

"Once is never enough when it comes to you my sweet"

[witch-in-the-dirt]

My Honest Review of ‘Slavic Witchcraft; Old world Conjuring Spells and Folklore’ , By Natasha Helvin

Before I start, I am not here to question Natasha’s heritage or place in the Caribbean African diaspora spirituality’s. If you have comments on that, that’s up to you. I neither have the background or place to discuss that.

My review is also on my Goodreads,

Review

Natasha Helvin, as described in her own words, is an occultist, hereditary witch, and priestess of Voodoo. Born in the Soviet Union and later moving away at 18. She claims to have learned from her mother and grandparents, the traditions of old world Slavic paganism.

All this and yet, she cannot source anything she says, save a very unfounded “Just trust me.”

The book is separated into 10 chapters, the first two and introduction focusing on ‘The traditions,’ and other folklore information as well as history. The later 8 sections are all about Spells and spell work, and superstition.

Introduction; Sorcery as a Living Tradition.

Slavic Witchcraft was published in 2019, deep into the popularization and hype of witchcraft and paganism in the 21st century. And yet, Natasha chooses to open her book with a Cautionary Note, which warns the reader that what is inside is ‘taboo’ and ‘forbidden.’ Which is what initially made me raise an eyebrow at what I was reading.

The majority of this section was just discussing her childhood, and experiences to solidify her position as the teacher in this book. Nothing too unusual, and nothing of note. I won’t comment on someone’s life experiences as a point of note. But it’s hard to see the point in bringing it up, when it just loops over itself, as if to philosophize on it rather then make a point. Nostalgia is a valid place to write from, even in Spirituality and Nonfiction, but there are ways to go about it, to make a point. As an example; Braiding Sweetgrass, By Robin Wall K. She makes many points of talking about her life, that ultimately ends with her informing the reader of a life lesson. In Slavic Witchcraft, this just becomes a loop, that is hard to read.

1, Pagan Christianity or Christian Paganism

This Chapter highlights the most glaring issue in the entire book. There are NO SOURCES. Throughout this chapter Natasha Heavily references historical events and real life situations that do have the history to back them up. The Indoctrination into Orthodox Christianity, and the way they amalgamated pagan practices into their religion, are true historical facts. The way paganism out beat Christianity in Russia multiple times, are facts. However, the author refuses to use references and build a bibliography which makes everything she says feel less credible.

Here I will also address the 4 Elements. This isn’t the first and won’t be the last time I bring it up in a Spirituality book review.

Where is your information on the four elements as the building blocks of the universe coming from. It’s not a universal idea? Multiple other cultures have elements ranging from 3-5 or six. I would love genuinely a reference from where Natasha has the Ancient Slavs using these elements as a structure of their beliefs.

2, Slavic Magic Power and Sorcery

There’s a lot of things in this section that just require the reader to trust that Natasha is telling the truth without any resources to reference. Once again a lot of this book would have benefited from sources but because there are none, you just have to trust her.

An example is the Sorcerers Song. She dedicates quite a bit of this chapter to ‘folklore’ and often references this thing called the sorceresses/sorcerers song. The song in question is the dying sorcerers last words, before they transfer magic to someone else. A lot of the stuff in here is very fantastical, and there is a level of difficulty in understanding what is just fun storytelling on the authors part and what is to be believed as fact.

Here she also contradicts herself on the facts of who can and cannot be a witch.

What a witch is according to folklore, where the unfortunate use of a Romani slur is used, in a sentence that is just a repetition of really old racism. How can you write the sentence that describes witches as “ugly iron toothed and (racial stereotypes)” without also clarifying that these are all descriptions from a post orthodox and heavily antagonistic mindset?

These chapters really clarified for me that this book is not about Slavic paganism as a religion but rather, Ms Helvins Experience as a pagan with a post Christian Russian heritage. Everything is still very Christian. Which isn’t bad and not wrong, most folk magics we see today come from a Christian background because that is the most common religion of all our ancestors. This book isn’t a reconstruction of Slavic paganism, or Slavic pagan as a broad term regardless. It’s Natasha’s paganism.

The rest of the book focuses on Spells, which are for the most part fine.

I have personal issues with her opening comments on All people were made by god as man and woman and our true desires are to find our other halves. Okay, no.

I have issues with the amount of times she references everything and everyone around us as “manipulatable” that all things fall under our whims. Which is morally uncomfortable. I don’t think our ancestors who worked alongside animals and plants always saw them as lower, as seen in, still Alive and well, Indigenous American beliefs.

In the end, this book isn’t for beginners, it’s not for Slavic pagans, it’s for Natasha. And that’s fine.

[kirschbluetenregen-ao3]

Black Clover is back! 🖤

I can’t even say how much I was looking forward to those three chapters. Every release for 1.5 years I was hoping to see what happened to Yami. He was my favourite character from the first moment on and is still number 1. And damn, Tabata, you delivered!

Like I said, as I’m in Japan right now of course I had to buy the Jump GIGA to have those chapters at home with me (and I was walking into a supermarket wearing a kimono, great experience!). I just didn’t expect the magazine to be actually this GIGA. 🤣

Look at the colour spread, it’s so beautiful! Tabata really took my favourites and placed them in this autumn mood. 🥺

I just had two points to criticize with those chapters:

1. They were too short, I just can’t have enough Yami / Nacht / Ichika content.

2. Ichika calling her brother “Yami”. But thank goodness, it was a translation mistake. It really bothered me a lot.

She calls him “ani ue” (like Leopold does with Fuegoleon) here, like almost every time in those three chapters. Alternatively she calls him “onii-chan” and that really warmed my heart! ❤️

When I started to write “Embrace of Darkness”, Nacht and Ichika had never met before. I shipped them so hard nevertheless, and seeing them interacting now is EVERYTHING for me! I mean, look at them, they are perfect for each other!

She even kicked his ass so he would get up. Yami’s words already hit hard, but I had the feeling that Ichika’s speech really got him up. It seems like he neither wants to be a tragic princess who wants to be saved. 🤣

Speaking of Ichika, damn, she is so fantastic! Did you notice her features softened after she found out the truth? She looks so beautiful and more like the sweet, innocent child again. She left her anger behind and can be more like herself again.

The reunion of the siblings was made so beautiful. I hope they have more moments together. Just look at them. And Yami looks so badass with his Kijin form, simple but very effective.

I love how Yami is this protective man. He really does everything for the people he loves and cares for, and it seems like all those years he never forgot about his little sister and that he was not strong enough back then to protect her. He fought to become stronger, so he would be able to protect the people he loves. He really is the heir of the Yami clan, with him being the first to handle the drug and becoming the Kijin.

I just have to mention the combo spell of the Yami siblings. I was hoping so much they will get one, and here we are. 🤩 It’s perfect! and Yami is so proud of his sister and that she became so strong.

Now speaking of Nacht. Shit, I love this man and I just want to give him a hug. It’s so cruel he has to fight his dead brother and of course he struggles to fight him. He killed him once and doesn’t want to kill him a second time. I hate to see him cry, but I can’t help that he looks so pretty doing so. 🥺

His new devil union forms were so damn cool! I read others find the second one kind of underwhelming, a four devil union was expected to look more like the first one, but I think it’s perfect. I like the effect of minimalism here and I’ve got the feeling that really being able to unite with all four would make him look more human again.

Nacht always manages to drop the hardest lines in Black Clover. His dream about becoming a Magic Knight with Yami and Morgen made me cry so hard, and I hope he will find his peace one day.

Tabata, please let Morgen have some last words for his brother! He needs that so much. 🥺

I’m sure I forgot half of the things I wanted to write, but to sum it up: I’m very satisfied but need more at the same time. And please, let Charlotte react on Kijin Yami. 😄

[ptsilencedhill]

crazy how peaky blinders s1 was actually fantastic. and season 2 was really good. and then everything goes balls to the wall for four seasons. what do you mean Thomas Shelby is a union buster who joins the fascist movement

[djuvlipen]

https://nordicmodelnow.org/2020/03/02/the-cost-of-western-europes-rampant-prostitution-the-genocide-of-romanian-women/?amp=1

Sorry for the triggering article. Not romani but ty for your bravery and support of women 💚

God, that was a good article, thank you for sharing, Anon. I recommend reading the whole thing but I want to highlight some specific parts:

For the last eight months or so, the entire country has been in turmoil and living a nightmare. I do not say ‘nightmare’ lightly. I wish it had just been a bad dream that we’d woken from. If only… But the reality is we can’t shake off the nightmarish situation that’s been stewing since about the time my country was accepted into the European Union and the borders were opened. While it was a fantastic opportunity for the development of the country, it was also the beginning of a horrifying new reality – rampant human trafficking. In an effort to provide for themselves and/or their families, people started to go abroad in search of work opportunities they couldn’t find at home. But it was also a huge opportunity for interlopers and human traffickers, because the opening of the borders made it easier for them to do what they had previously been doing with a lot more difficulty. Now their activity is widespread and unchecked. They have no qualms. They brazenly state that it’s a certified way of making a living. Given the legal status of prostitution in many EU countries, trafficking women and children has become in Romania a legitimate way of making a fortune for the ‘smarter’ people. They declare that dirty money is easier and faster to make with little to no effort on their part. That’s ‘smart’ to them. They announce this unapologetically, and with a superior smirk, on every medium, official and unofficial. For the ordinary, hardworking population, this is unbelievable, unbearable, terrifying.

This points at something I've been thinking about: the European Union is not our friend, it is explicitly anti-women. It doesn't simply tolerate the sex trade, it institutionalizes it to make profit out of it. It is antifeminist at its core and the first victims of it are women from impoverished Eastern European countries, with Romani (not simply Romanian) women being particularly vulnerable.

There are over 500 known trafficking rings in Romania, their areas of influence are well mapped and the leaders well known. They cover pretty much every inch of the country. Not a corner has been left unexploited by them. Prostitution is illegal in Romania, but it is flourishing anyway. As we all know, it produces enormous amounts of money for the ‘clans’ – as the interlopers call themselves with pride. But the biggest source of money is outside the country. In the beginning, they promised a job abroad in agriculture, in restaurants and as babysitters, and the women who fell prey found themselves in prostitution. When word got out and that tactic didn’t work anymore, they resorted to the ‘lover boy’ method. When that didn’t work so well, they started to steal children and young women from the street and even from their own homes. Thousands of other cases similar to Alexandra’s and Luiza’s have surfaced – including one where all six children – two boys and four girls – of a single mother were abducted by force, from their house. None of this – on this scale – would have been possible without the tacit agreement and practical protection of the authorities – police, the justice system, and politicians. The clans have grown so powerful that they even boast of having installed their own politicians, policemen, judges, and prosecutors. They continually escape justice. If some rogue policemen catch them and somehow manage to bring them to court, they use their money and influence to get off. The money that comes, as I said, not so much from the internal ‘market’, but from other European countries to which they traffic the children and women they get their hands on by any means. The most important destination are the countries where prostitution is legalized, like Germany and the Netherlands, but also the countries (including the UK) where laws against pimping and buying women in prostitution are not enforced. Romania has become the number one European source country of children and women in the brothels in Germany and Holland, and also Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Belgium, Greece and the UK. Even though the total population of Romania is only about 19 million, there are thousands[*] of Romanian women and children forced into street prostitution in Italy alone – and that’s not counting those in strip clubs, brothels and ‘escort’ prostitution. It’s estimated that there are similar numbers in Spain, the UK, Germany, and Holland – and that’s not considering those in the Arab world and on other continents. Romania has haemorrhaged more than a million children (girls and boys) and women into the prostitution trade in these countries. In countries where prostitution is legal, like Germany, only a small percentage of the women involved are locals. German women do not take up this kind of ‘work’ en masse. (Should we wonder why it’s so off-putting?). But the demand is huge – so they outsource to countries like mine.

This part is also very important. I only wish she had mentioned that Romani women make up a large % of trafficked women from Romania; one of the reasons I started making posts about it is because many people don't think race is relevant when talking about the sex trade in Eastern Europe, because they think all of Eastern Europe is white. The vast majority of articles and studies therefore erasing the large % of trafficked Romani women by painting the general sex-trafficked victim as a white woman, which is not the case as race is relevant here.

And all this because of the participation of our men in power, men who served the parents of the two still missing girls who want their children back with the sentence (pun intended), “I’m hitting a wall.” Yes. That’s what the attorney general said to them when asked why they aren’t looking for the girls: “I can’t look for them because there’s a wall stopping me.” People started rallying for the girls. It is awful to see the two mothers in tears and on their knees in front of the Police Department building, begging the authorities to find their children and bring them home. So what is that wall? Might it be the needs of ‘punters’ in Germany? In Italy? All over Europe and elsewhere? The US military base located only five miles away from the town of Caracal? The need of the overpaid and oversexed American ‘heroes’ to have sex in their spare time lest they might die from abstinence? The needs of the ‘heroes’ (read ‘paedophiles’) in the other US military base about 200 miles away near the sea port of Constanta who built a special pavilion INSIDE the base camp where they go and have sex and where they demand to be brought younger and younger girls (children), new ones each time? (In the case of Alexandra Macesanu and Luiza Melencu, even the FBI got involved and ‘recommended’ putting a lid on the whole affair, and over 90 US soldiers were packed and shipped home a few days after the disappearances broke into the news.) Might all that be the WALL?

And that is very interesting too. Even in peace time, the military is harming and raping girls and women. The US military, none the less. That's imperialism right there. The most powerful country in the world establishing military bases in impoverished countries and harming the girls and women living there. Covered up by the State. Just confirms what we all know: the military is a rotten institution and all soldiers are a threat to women, and the US military is the most powerful one.