#this area is ripe for expansion

[ruesol]

Part 2 of Ghoap watching you eat fruit.

Notes: suggestive (sorry for leading you on), I know I called Ghost Simon in the last one but it was too late until I realized that. AFAB!reader is called doll. Not proofread.

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The day was hot. The sweltering heat had gotten to everyone. Except for Johnny MacTavish of course.

He was borderline skipping on his way to the common area, dull rattle coming from the plastic container of strawberries in his hand. His cheeriness irritated all the soldiers on base.

“What’s got you so chipper?” Ghost asked as he joined his walk. He probably already finished sharpening his knives so he joined Johnny, not having anything else to occupy his spare time.

“You’ll see,” the younger man simpler smirked, too excited to even look at his senior. Blue eyes sparkling with a momentary glance at the container in his hands. “I got a present for our friend.”

The two burly men entered the lounge space and the entire room suddenly felt too small despite two windows shinning ochre rays of the sun. You were no victim to the heat either; with your normal fitted t-shirt swapped for a thin tank top and pants switched for workout shorts.

You were quick to turn away from your meaningless task at the sight of their imposing presence. “Oh, hey, guys. What are you doing here?”

Johnny raised the box of strawberries in his hands. “I know you like fruits so I snagged these. Let’s share some,” he winked. Ghost was starting to understand what Johnny had planned.

He pulled his mask half way up his face. To cool down, of course.

Much to Ghost’s hidden dismay, you conveyed your gratitude to Johnny by hopping up to his face and kissing his scruff cheek- leaving a thin film of fruit scented lip balm.

The base you all had been stationed in was the one that received the least amount of funding- which explained the tiny lone couch with a sad box tv from the 80s. It even had a storage unit for cassette tapes, making whoever who used it feel like they had travelled through time. The two men took the only two seats on the couch, giving you no space to rest your legs. You couldn’t even squeeze in between them if you tried because of how they had their expansive thighs spread. “That’s fine, I’ll just-“

Ghost was quick to pull you down, holding you on his firm thigh. “‘S’alright, love. We can’t let you stand while we relax.” Johnny said as rubbed his rough paw on your knee, nearly engulfing the area.

Your blood ran hot as you observed the scene from an outsider’s perspective. Two burly men, sitting side by side with a pretty doll on one lap. Surely, it was all innocent. Surely there wasn’t an ulterior motive on their minds. They were your best friends so you trusted them with everything. That included your body.

You could sleep in nothing but an oversized t-shirt between them and you knew you’d be alright. Fleeting touches, unwanted flirtation, and uncomfortable proximity was never a problem because it just never happened.

You hadn’t thought of them in that sense until this moment right now, where both of them were looking like they wanted to eat you more than the fat, plump strawberries.

Johnny opened the box of strawberries and placed them on the cardboard-box-turned-coffee-table. The strawberries looked like they had dropped from the shrubs of heaven- huge and swollen to the point of seemingly saccharine ripeness, begging to be bit into.

“Here, love, you get the first and the biggest,” the more talkative of the two didn’t even wait for you to extend your hand before placing the fruit right on your lips. He didn’t move it until you took a bite. “Go on.” His bushy eyebrows were unnaturally raised. You could see the sheen of sweat forming on his forehead- a part of you wanted wipe it for him.

With your eyes staring into his eager ones, you took a bite. It tasted unlike any strawberry you had eaten before. Mostly sweet with a kick of tartness. You unconsciously let out a small moan of satisfaction, prompting Ghost to shift in his seat a little, rattling you in the process.

“How is it?” Ghost rumbled from under you. You hadn’t noticed when he had pulled close to his chest. You could smell the gun powder and sweat permeating off him. “It’s sweet,” you said.

“Really? Let me check.” You thought the man was going to grab the same strawberry, but you were surprised to see his hand move to your neck instead.

“What are you-“

And you were interrupted again- but this time by a searing kiss on your lips. Ghost took your surprised gasp as a chance to enter your mouth. His wet muscle explored you, tasting whatever was left of the sweet fruit. You couldn’t even fight off the sudden attack of his mouth with how he held you tightly in his arms. You had no room to move.

After what felt like ages, he pulled away. “She’s right, it’s sweet. Here, you try.” Ghost effortlessly picked you up and placed you on Johnny’s lap. Much to your confusion, Johnny didn’t mention that he already had a strawberry in his hand. But you didn’t bring out your concerns- Ghost’s kiss had you dazed.

Johnny didn’t waste any time and planted his desperate lips on yours. Gasping every time his mouth opened, licking up remnants of the little juice Ghost left for him.

He pulled away, arms around your waist to make sure you wouldn’t leave (though you couldn’t bother escaping- your wobbly legs would probably give out on you if you tried).

“There’s nothing to taste. You took it all,” the Scot inveighed. “Have to try another one. These were expensive to get, y’know.” He rolled his eyes as he grabbed a few, not enough to be a handful but enough to satiate his much larger appetite. “Fuck, there goes seven pounds down the ground.”

Ghost made a mental note give Soap a good hard smack on the back of his head afterwards. Seven pounds per strawberry? Somebody give him a fucking break.

Soap took the strawberries to your lips once again but you looked at him with a confused expression. “I thought these were for you? I can’t fit all of them in my mouth.”

“Yeah, they’re f’me, but I’m gonna have ‘em like this.” The man crushed the strawberries over your mouth. You sucked in a breath of surprise, it was all so sudden. Your eyes closed as the pieces of fruit burst on your face- droplets beneath your eyes, cheek bones, and of course, mouth. The juices dripped down your lips to your chin, eventually trailing down your neck. Johnny eyed the pink stains left behind by each trailing drop.

“Soap, what the fuck?” You went on to wipe the juices off your face but Ghost grabbed both your wrists with a single hand and held them behind your back. “Relax, he’s just tryin’ to taste it.”

You turned back to look at Ghost with a shocked face, but as always, his blank eyes conveyed no emotion. Not even an apologetic glint.

Soap’s calloused fingers gripped your jaw as he turned you to face him while he used his other hand to hold you down by your waist.

You only remembered the crazed look in his eyes before he leaned down to devour you. Wet tongue painting your mouth and cheek, mopping up the tart juice. The hand gripping your jaw went down to join his other one that was holding on to you, kneading your sides.

You moaned (voluntarily) at the feeling of his fingers roughly pushing and poking your skin.

It was all so hot. Literally. You could feel your sweat dripping down your back, reaching the little peek of skin below the hem of your top, where Ghost had your hands pinned. Something about his gloved hands touching your bare skin had you grinding against Johnny’s thigh.

“Fuck, now it tastes sweeter,” he chuckled against your lips. His mouth trailed down to your chin, licking up the remnants of the sticky juice there. Your ears felt like they were on fire when you heard him loudly smack his lips, savoring the taste.

His mouth continued to go down further, moving towards the column of your neck, squeezing more strawberries and licking up their juices. At this point, the smell of your sweat mixed with the taste of strawberries had him intoxicated.

Ghost was beginning to get agitated. He wanted to touch the pretty doll on Johnny’s lap too. With a cautious gaze, he slowly loosened the grip to see if you would get up, but you didn’t move an inch away from Johnny. Hell, your hands were still placed against your back, too blissed out to notice that Ghost had freed them.

He moved closer towards you and Johnny and slowly trailed his hands up your thighs to your breasts, lifting your tank in the process. Johnny complied with his lieutenant’s movement and put his hands on your thighs instead. You realized that the man needed to touch some part of your body while having his mouth on you.

Ghost began to massage the area right beneath your breasts and left small kisses on your temple as you mewled reluctant protests of wanting to be left alone.

“We can’t stop. We need to finish all the strawberries. Captain can’t find out that we spent food ration funds on this,” Johnny mumbled between leaving deep burgundy hickeys on the swell of your cleavage.

Ghost hooked his fingers beneath your sports bra, hoping to pull it off along with your scrunched up top, but froze when a familiar voice barked at the entrance of the lounge.

“Which one of you bastards bought gourmet strawberries?” It was Captain Price.

But as soon as the three of you looked at him, his angry gaze faltered to a curious one.

His eyes landed on the box of now almost empty container of strawberries on the makeshift coffee table.

Then on Johnny’s face- scarlet stains all over his mouth.

Ghost, the man who didn’t even show a single fingernail, had half his face visible to the world, pressed up on your cheek

And then of course, he looked at you- best for last. Lips swollen, clavicle littered with irregular purple spots, and the most delicious sight of all- your clothed breasts pushed up (courtesy of Ghost’s hands.

“All of you in my office. I have the perfect punishment.”

—

I- yeah, idk what I wrote either.

[riizegasm]

Chardonnay || A. J.

❀ pairing: &team jo x gn!reader

❀ genre: fluff, slice of life, (very loosely) friends to lovers, wine country/vineyard!au

❀ word count: ~4.4K

❀ warnings: alcohol consumption, lots of wine and wine talk, kissing

❀ summary: While making wine takes patience, you find the fermentation process quite enjoyable. Waiting for your love story with Jo to blossom is a whole different story.

❀ a/n: Please take all depictions of wine making and village life as fiction (which it is, since I have no knowledge of either). Hopefully, this will be the start of my redemption arc and getting back into my groove. As always, likes, replies, and reblogs are encouraged. Happy reading!

masterlist

Patience is the key to making good wine. The grapes must be grown with the utmost care, only picked when ripe and not a second before. Then, they must be crushed with a delicate force that coaxes the juice out instead of splattering around the barrel. Finally, the fermentation requires so much space and time that you may forget about the wine altogether.

Asakura Jo tested your patience in a way that no wine ever had.

He had always been the shy type, the type to observe his surroundings before ever opening his mouth. Even as a mere child, you remember the way his wide eyes scanned the expanse of your family’s vineyard, as if looking for something only he could see. While it was never quite intimidating, it could be off putting at times.

All the aunties in the neighborhood constantly gossiped about him, saying how he would make such a good partner if he was just a bit more social. He was handsome, so handsome that the aunties found his silence to be a shame. They never saw his shyness as what you saw. Instead of a request for patience, they saw it as a sign of him being undeserving.

Asakura Jo was better off being an outcast in wine country. But yet, he found himself clinging to you.

In the first grade, your entire village was enthralled by the fact that you had a shadow. Everywhere you went, Jo wasn’t far behind. He stuck to the shadows, the lesser known areas of the playground and the hidden areas of the market. But he was never too far away from you. Of that, he was sure.

In all honesty, it frustrated you. You had always been the independent type, sure to spend plenty of time wandering the miles of vineyard space by yourself, even as a kid. Your parents’ vineyard was sizeable enough that you could get lost in the rows of grapes, removing yourself from the pressures of the village waiting for you just down the hill. But Jo made it so that you could never quite be alone.

He would linger in the rows of grapes behind you, never saying much as you skipped about. He preferred to take out his sketchbook, trying to maintain a balance of drawing and following. You assumed it never left much space for talking.

While it wasn’t quite the solitude you imagined, Jo’s silence made for an odd comfort. It wasn’t until you were older that you realized just how odd the whole thing was.

It had been the summer after your second year of high school when you first snapped. The grapes were just beginning to take shape on the vines, the midsummer sun beating down hard on the vineyard. You were sure your cheeks were beginning to color with the first hints of summer. But when you turned to Jo, who was red in the face with an obvious burn, you began to grow frustrated.

“Go home, Jo!” You all but yelled, wanting for once to get rid of your seemingly permanent shadow. “You’re getting burnt.”

The boy just stared back at you, deep eyes shining like obsidian in the sunlight. He had just experienced his first growth spurt, no longer short enough to hide behind the vines of grapes. His lack of hiding place didn’t seem to matter, though, as he was no longer shy. Instead, he was simply silent. You hated the way looking at him for too long made your throat tighten.

“Seriously,” you groaned. “Your mom is going to kill me.”

It was a bit of a lie, as Jo’s mother adored you. She seemed to be happy that her son had simply made a friend, despite the fact that you two couldn’t quite be classified as that. You went, Jo followed. It was that simple.

“I’m fine.”

It wasn’t like Jo never spoke, but hearing his voice was definitely rare. He liked to linger, perceiving instead of speaking. So every time you got to hear his slowly deepening voice, it hit you like a splash of cold water to the face.

“A-are you sure?” You stuttered out.

A nod in return. Just that fast, your first rebellion was over, but it was just the first of many to come.

You feel as though you spent your entire adolescence around Jo. You wonder when him following you around became you looking after him. The two of you would wander around the vineyards, side by side this time instead of Jo a few rows behind. When Jo would stumble over his increasingly long limbs, you would scold him, warning him not to get hurt.

Your throat sometimes grew raw from ranting to him, constantly nagging about how he could be spending his time doing something much more productive. His own family’s vineyard could likely use an extra set of hands to pick grapes, but he never spent any time there. You always reminded him that he should be spending his time learning the family business, learning how to properly crush grapes and drain them of their nectar.

He would simply look at you and shrug. That, of course, sent you into another rant. How could someone be so passive about everything? How could someone want to spend all of his spare time with you instead of doing what the rest of the village did — make wine?

While Jo never cared to answer your endless questions, your rants fermented into something sweeter over time. Instead of dry and bitter, your words carried a bit of air with them, fizzy as they bubbled over like champagne. You teased Jo about the time spent with you rather than admonishing him for it. Instead of staring at you with a curious gaze, Jo began to admire you with a saccharine smile.

Even now, as the two of you sit across from each other on a checkered picnic blanket, Jo is regarding you with something akin to wonder. It’s an admiration you haven’t gotten quite used to, despite the fact that you both are well into early adulthood by now. Sometimes, you expect Jo to still be the small boy hiding behind vines to get a peek at you. But that’s far from the Jo who sits before you, tall and lean, confident in his attractiveness.

“I heard Mina asked you out.”

Your voice comes out as an unnaturally small thing, carried away by the late summer breeze. It’s the last break the village has before fully breaking into harvesting season, the grapes beginning to swell with the nectar you all seek to harvest. Jo doesn’t seem to feel the inbound pressure of the changing seasons. Instead, he remains mellow, as if the strength of the breeze were not enough to sway him.

He lets out a small hum of indifference. “She did.”

“And what did you say?”

It’s only now that Jo looks at you, curious eyes searching your face. You can feel where the corners of your mouth are twisted in distaste, as if the simple thought of Jo being asked out was enough to make bitterness burst in your mouth. Although you know that it would be better to learn from Jo and approach the conversation with measured indifference, you can’t seem to put aside your displeasure.

“Does it matter?” Jo asks softly, voice deep and soft like it always is.

The words leave you with a sense of urgency that you haven’t felt in ages. “Of course it does!”

Jo chuckles softly at your voice, rolling his eyes before taking a swig from his tumbler. It’s filled with a chardonnay that your family had in the cellar, one of many. Neither of you should be drinking, especially in the late afternoon under the heat of the summer sun. But the two of you wanted to feel the thrill of smuggling the bottle and enjoying it in between rows of the same grapes from which it was produced.

Well, you wanted to feel the thrill. Jo just wanted whatever you wanted.

“I told her no.”

Satisfaction pools in your stomach, warm from more than just the wine. You can sure it’s written all over your face, so you take a slow sip from your tumbler to conceal your smile. You aren’t successful, if the way Jo blushes is anything to go by.

“Why do you care who asks me out?”

“I don’t,” you lie.

“So then you wouldn’t care if I went out with someone.”

You knock back the entirety of your wine, feeling the slow trickle as it slides down your esophagus. It easily distracts you from the way your stomach twists. Maybe it’s the heat getting to you. Yeah, that must be the reason that you feel so faint.

“I wouldn’t care.” Another lie.

Jo laughs, really laughs this time. His smile stretches wide across his face, making only a brief appearance before he eclipses it with his hand. It’s at times like this when you agree with all of the vintage aunties who make remarks anytime Jo so much as enters a room. It makes sense; he’s beautiful.

“Don’t worry. I’m not going to go out with anyone else.”

The heat that encompasses your face is unbearable at this point, causing you to duck your face into your own shoulder. You hope that Jo can’t tell how much his words affect you, but he’s so observant that you’d be surprised if he didn’t.

So, you choose to lie again. “I don’t care.”

There’s a silence that lingers after your statement, the kind of silence that is both empty and full of meaning. It’s then that Jo scoots closer to you, placing his wine glass down on a more solid patch of ground as he ends up mere inches away. The sudden closeness has you blinking rapidly, unfamiliar with the sight of Jo so close.

Like this, it’s impossible to miss the few freckles that dot his face. The fan of his eyelashes cast a delicate shadow on his rounded cheeks, flushed with color under the heat of the sun. Not for the first time, you find yourself noting just how gorgeous Jo is.

“Are you sure you don’t care?” Jo’s question is nothing more than a mere whisper, his chardonnay-scented breath fanning over your face.

The rush of warmth in your stomach leaves you breathless, unable to reply verbally. Instead, you opt for a mere nod. You’re not quite sure what about it is humorous, but Jo breathes out a short laugh anyway.

It’s a split second shift after that. You can barely register the flicker of Jo’s eyes as they dart down to your lips before meeting your eye contact once more. You’ve never seen Jo’s gaze so intense, his stare normally wide with curiosity. You’re not sure if the heat rising through your core is from the alcohol or that very stare. But you’ve seen the movies. You know what that look means.

You dart forward to place the briefest of kisses on Jo’s lips. It’s barely enough time to register how soft they feel against your own, or how Jo begins to tilt his head just to get more. But when you pull back, you feel as though you’ve run a marathon, your heart pumping a mile a minute. The rush of blood is no doubt making itself visible on your cheeks, but you hope you can blame the near empty bottle of wine for that.

“You do care,” is all Jo says after his eyes flutter open, face melting into a soft smile.

“No,” you whisper, feeling as though your heart is ready to leap out of your mouth. “I really don’t.”

Your words sound superficial in your own ears, especially after what just transpired. It seems that Jo feels the same, if the way his smile simply grows brighter is anything to go by. It’s all you can register before a pair of lips blanket yours once again, longer than last time, but still extremely brief.

You find yourself leaning forward, chasing the feeling before you realize it has vanished completely. When you open your eyes, you realize that Jo has put a decent amount of distance between the two of you. He looks smug, as smug as someone like Jo could be, gaze heated with a sense of knowing. You wonder how someone could manage to be so perceptive to the point where they not only see you, but see inside you as well.

“Yeah, that’s what I figured.”

. . .

“So, what’s your secret?” A nasally voice asks, hovering in front of your market stall. “How did you make Jo so obsessed with you?”

You roll your eyes for the umpteenth time. “Jo isn’t obsessed with me.”

“Oh don’t be so modest. Jo has practically been glued to your side since we were kids. I’m just wondering why.”

You try your best to ignore the backhanded insult as you turn to fully face the woman on the opposite side of your sales table. Her hands hover over each bottle of wine, as if pondering how to ruin them and make it look like an accident. It wouldn’t be hard. Kawasaki Mina has always had the whole village wrapped around her finger, as if she could do no wrong.

You imagine that being the daughter of the richest family in the village would make you feel exactly that, like nothing you could do was wrong.

“I think you’ll have to ask Jo about that one.”

Mina scoffs. “Jo who barely talks to anyone? Yeah, I definitely could see how that would go.”

All that’s left for you to do is shrug, pretending to organize the various bottles of chardonnay in front of you just to keep your hands busy. You fear you’ll end up doing something stupid if you don’t, like punching Mina right in her smug face.

“Well I suppose it won’t matter for long anyways. One day Jo will realize that following you around is pointless and he’ll move on to someone who will actually give him the time of day.” Mina’s lips curl into a smirk. “Someone a bit better suited for him.”

The sarcastic chuckle escapes your lips before you can stop it. “Like you?”

Mina just shrugs, feigning nonchalance. “I guess only time can tell.”

Her smug face is gone before you can even respond, disappearing into the throngs of people at the weekly market. It’s the one time a week that the entire village gets together, lining the streets with various carts and stalls to sell their goods to tourists. Although it has calmed down a bit by this point in the day, it is still fairly crowded, enough that you can’t see beyond only a few stalls down.

The Asakura family’s stall is somewhere closer to the south end of the market, rows and rows of sparkling white wine on display. You’ve always felt like the wine that the family sold complimented them perfectly. Their wine was on the sweeter side, made slightly airier with bubbles. With every sip, you can taste a bit of sunshine, as subtle as it is.

It’s exactly like Jo, subtle, light, and incredibly sweet.

Towards the end of the day, the market has just about cleared out. All that’s left are the locals, each packing up their grapes, wines, and cheeses to save for the following weekend. You don’t even need to check your watch, knowing that it is exactly 4:30pm on the dot when a familiar face appears.

Jo just smiles, greeting you softly before diving into his routine of helping you pack up. It’s something that he’s been doing ever since your families had deemed you both old enough to run the market stalls each weekend. At the beginning of the day, he’d unload your boxes from his truck, carrying them over to your stall for you to set out and present for the day. At close, he’d wordlessly help you pack up, toting all your boxes back into his truck to drive you home.

You can hear the faint whispers of a few aunties next to you, no doubt gossiping about Jo’s diligence in helping you out. It has almost become part of routine, their rumors filling in the silence left by you and Jo. You have both grown used to it, no longer turning red in the face as they bid on the size of your wedding or how many children you’ll have together.

“All set?” Jo asks once all three boxes have been packed.

At your nod, he scoops two of them off the table, leaving the last one for you to carry on your own. While Jo has never been the most muscular, it’s almost impossible to not ogle the flex of his forearms and the veins in his hands as he grips the undoubtedly heavy boxes. The flutter that runs through your core gets a little more noticeable, practically unbearable when paired with the increasing heat rising to your cheeks.

Jo’s overwhelming height makes him easy to follow as you weave through the remaining market stalls. Despite the heavy burden he’s carrying, he still takes the time to greet everyone he comes across. The sweet smile that surfaces on his face reminds you once again of his family’s wine, light and subtle.

Jo’s truck is a beat up old pickup, passed down from his father. It’s better suited for driving through the rows of vines in the vineyard rather than on actual roads, but it gets the job done. The passenger’s seat has almost become a second home to you at this point, its worn leather greeting you with a minute groan as you sit. Jo slides into the driver’s side just seconds later, his long limbs just barely fitting into the car.

The late summer sun bathes Jo in the most beautiful golden glow, illuminating the deep brown of his irises so that they look more amber. You lament the fact that you don’t have a camera on you, knowing that he possesses the kind of beauty that deserves to be captured as art. The image only lasts for a brief moment before he turns to wrap his arm behind the headrest of the passenger’s seat, putting the car in reverse. Once again, you find yourself struggling to look away from the veins in his forearms, trying your best to ignore just how much of the headrest that his large hand encompasses.

The drive is relatively quiet as the two of you make your way back to your family’s vineyard. The village looks so different out here, away from the (albeit minimal) hustle and bustle of the village center. Out here it’s all sprawling hills, the early evening sun illuminating rows and rows of vines, their grapes nothing but mere peas on the stems. In just a few weeks, that would change drastically, and the village will be back to work.

“Do you ever wish you could leave here?” You ask after a moment, minutely aware of the way Jo’s hand tightens on the steering wheel.

“Why would I leave?”

You just shrug, turning to let the sun warm your face through the passenger side window. “I don’t know. Mina said that soon you’d realize you deserved better.”

“Better than here?”

“I don’t know,” you admit. “Just better.”

Jo is quiet for a moment as the truck takes on a steep hill that will lead him to your home. It’s only when he reaches its summit that he speaks.

“There’s nothing for me out there. Everything I could need is right here. Everyone I could ever need.”

The candor of the confession catches you by surprise, but you wouldn’t expect anything less from Jo. Despite his soft, shy nature, he’s never been one to sugarcoat how he feels. You wish you could say the same about yourself.

“But what if you get tired of it here? What if you get tired of me?”

You know that it’s a selfish question, but it leaves you before you can even register the words. Jo thinks for a moment, slowing to a stop in your driveway. Here, at the top of the hill, the sun is back. It paints Jo in a golden hue once again and you find your breath stuttering in your chest. If Jo notices, he doesn’t say anything, just shooting you a soft smile.

“I could never get tired of you, Y/N.”

. . .

Your time with Jo lessens at the end of September, as it does every autumn. As the leaves begin to change color, the grapes begin to swell, signifying the beginning of a bustling season. While its chaotic, it brings you a certain calm, a sense of routine that the entire village has fallen into year after year. It’s the only time of year when you look behind you and can’t see your shadow.

It’s easy to miss Jo when he’s not around, even though you would never admit that to him. His quiet, stable presence always serves to ground you when you need it most. And in the chaos of harvest season, you find yourself needing it more than ever. It’s lonely to be dealing with the season by yourself, but you remind yourself that this is a routine part of the year. You’ll get through it, Jo or no Jo.

That sentiment only lasts a few weeks.

You’re not sure if it’s the way that this season seems more hectic than usual or if it’s the seeds that Mina planted in your head just weeks prior, but you find yourself craving Jo’s presence. His absence leaves a bothersome tingle down your spine, as if it were an itch you simply can’t scratch. It’s a humming under your skin that leaves you restless, useless in the midst of such a busy season.

You have half a mind to make your way over to the Asakura estate, walking or biking the few short miles just to catch a glimpse of your shadow again. It feels almost pathetic, your desire to see him, as though just being in his presence were a salve on a burn. You imagine that it would be, though.

His soft smile and deep eyes would greet you in a way that would instantly have the rhythm of your heart slowing down. His simple demeanor would wash over you like a dousing of cold water on a hot summer day. You would have to be patient, waiting for him to find something worth speaking about. But you know that it’s well worth the wait to hear the voice that would slowly drain the tension from your body.

The ringing of your front doorbell is enough to snap you out of your train of thought, attention brought back to the bustling house around you. Obviously, none of the vineyard staff plan to take time away from their duties to open the door, so you take it upon yourself to answer it.

A twist of the doorknob and a slight pull reveal a smiling face that you know all too well. You find the tension vanishing from your shoulders the minute you lay eyes on the familiar grin. Where the tension once bled into every crevice of your body, it’s now filled with a soft fluttering feeling. It’s no longer a thrum of anxiety, but rather the thrill of what lies before you.

“Have time for a picnic?” Jo asks, holding up the woven basket.

You can see where a bottle of wine peeks over the top, condensation forming around the glass. Although you’d normally be sick of hearing about and seeing wine at this point in the season, you can’t help but smile at the prospect of sharing a glass with Jo. You try not to think too hard about why that is.

“Always.”

And you mean it.

The two of you find yourselves setting up your picnic in a more secluded corner of the vineyard, an open space shaded by a large tree. It seems to be the only inch of the vineyard not covered in vines, allowing you both a bit of privacy from the hustle and bustle of the workers. It’s a bit of serenity in the midst of chaos: the eye of the storm of the season.

Jo pours you both a crisp glass of white wine after you’re settled, pairing nicely with the bits of fruit and cheese he had packed. While cooking has never quite been Jo’s strong suit, thoughtfulness has.

Sometimes, you wonder if Jo is in love with you. You figure he must be if he takes time out of the busiest season of the year to eat fruit and cheese and share wine with you in the vineyard. He must be if he remembers that you can’t stand sharp cheeses and prefer a mellow creaminess instead. He must be if he looks at you like that, like you’re more precious than any prized wine. He’s always looked at you like that. If anything, his gaze has fermented with age, turning from something soft and curious to something more pointed.

But he never says it — not with words, anyway.

As the mid-autumn sun bathes you both in a light golden haze, you find yourself looking at Jo. It’s hard not to when the rounded slopes of his cheeks take on an almost cherubian glow. It’s even harder not to when his eyes are trained on you, scanning your face as if he were trying to commit every detail to memory. You know he’s thinking about his sketchbook. You wonder if he knows you’re thinking about him.

“Jo,” you whisper after a moment of relative silence. “Why did you come here?”

Jo smiles, sunlight bouncing off his glowing skin. “I told you, there’s no place I’d rather be.”

It’s there in the warmth of the sun that you realize just what Jo means. His gaze is soft and buttery, the sweet undertones emphasized by his gooey smile. It’s crisp and full, akin to the chardonnay swirling in both of your glasses. After years of patience, you realize that your own fermentation process is done. Your wine has matured, no doubt becoming the perfect concoction of emotion over time.

Jo is in love. And so are you.

.FIN.

[ms-m-astrologer]

2025 Aquarius New Moon

Wednesday, January 29, 12:36 UTC, 9°51’ Aquarius

Chart erected for Washington, DC

The key phrase for the New lunar phase is “set a new intention for the month” - nothing drastic, just a good habit you think you can establish in one month’s time.

This New Moon is also an Opportunity Period, lasting from one-half hour before, to one-half hour after, the actual moment. Easy to see why, with that trine to Jupiter/Gemini! It’s lucky. But the luck is airy luck, in the realms of ideas and of relationships. If you want to expand your knowledge &/or your contact list, this is a superb time to do so. With Jupiter being the more accessible ruler of Pisces (into which sign the mean North Node has just entered), we could even call this expansion imperative.

(And look at that late Pisces pile-up of Venus, Neptune, and the North Node. My stars. If that isn’t the epitome of “love,” I don’t know what is.)

The only other major aspect to/from the lunation, is an exact square to Vesta/Scorpio. For most of us this will translate into being a little more obsessed with our new ideas, than we would normally otherwise be. If we’re attuned to Vesta, we’re probably in store for a very deep dive. We also can use the energy to help us stay focused and on task.

Where is 9°51’ Aquarius in your birth chart? That area is particularly ripe for some fresh air. In the natal 12th House, you’ll want to carve out some quiet time to meditate &/or study. In the natal 5th House, your creative self-expression is going to go in some ingenious directions.

[talonabraxas]

Sun in Leo July 22 2024

Radiant Strength Reigns

Cancer Season, with its nurturing and introspective energy, served as a momentary pause for self-reflection and reconnecting with our inner selves. As the Sun moves into Leo on July 22nd, the vibrant and confident energy of this fixed Fire sign takes center stage. We are encouraged to embrace our individuality, express our talents, and bask in the warmth of self-assuredness. Leo, ruled by the Sun and representing the 5th house in astrology, offers us the opportunity to showcase our authentic gifts with childlike enthusiasm and joy.

During Leo Season, we may experience a heightened sense of dignity, nobility, and warmth of heart. It is a time when our confidence and creativity soar, allowing us to shine brightly in the areas of life where we feel most passionate. Like the blossoming flowers and ripe fruit of the season, we are eager to savor life's pleasures, express ourselves freely, and indulge in moments of self-celebration. Our gestures become grander and our attitudes more generous as we embrace the playful and vibrant energy that Leo embodies. However, it's important to be mindful of the shadow side of Leo, which can manifest as self-centeredness and vanity.

As we navigate Leo Season, it is crucial to maintain a delicate balance between ambitious aspirations and ethical means of achieving them. The focus should be on cultivating a healthy pride that stems from a genuine connection with our talents and self-expression. This is a time to infuse our lives with color, drama, and a touch of flamboyance, without losing sight of the importance of authenticity and humility. By channeling the positive qualities of Leo, we can elevate our self-confidence, embrace our unique gifts, and engage in creative endeavors that bring us joy and fulfillment.

On July 23rd, the Sun at 0 degrees Leo will oppose Pluto at 0 degrees Aquarius, potentially bringing transformative challenges that test our willpower and resilience. This opposition may uncover power struggles or deep-seated issues, urging us to face them with courage. By July 25th, the Sun at 3 degrees Leo will sextile Mars at 3 degrees Gemini, providing a burst of energy and enthusiasm to pursue our goals with vigor and confidence.

Later, on July 31st, the Sun at 8 degrees Leo will trine the True Node at 8 degrees Aries, aligning our path with our true purpose and destiny. This harmonious aspect supports bold self-expression and encourages us to take courageous steps toward our aspirations. Finally, on August 7th, the Sun at 15 degrees Leo will sextile Jupiter at 15 degrees Gemini, amplifying our optimism and bringing opportunities for growth and expansion in areas where we express our creativity and individuality.

Leo Season is a time to celebrate life, embrace our unique qualities, and shine brightly with confidence and joy. By balancing our ambitions with authenticity and humility, we can make the most of this vibrant and empowering period.

Leo - Zodiac Series by Johfra Bosschart 1974

[dalishthunder]

WIP Wednesday

Have some more of Mara and the Bodhisattva

The air was ripe with the scent of loquats, freshly picked and sliced, hung to dry in the midday sun. Warmth radiating from the wood slats of the hall, baked all morning in the growing heat of late spring, and he stretched, reclining and soaking it up.

It was… peaceful.

Sukuna knew better than to let his guard down around you; Sooner or later, you would inevitably try to kill him, just as you’d said. But you hadn’t yet… and you had a soothing aura about you, likely augmented by your absorption technique. So he closed his eyes, one set of arms resting on his belly while the other cushioned his head.

“Read to me,” He said after a few minutes.

“I know you can read yourself,” You retorted.

He nudged you with his foot, “Of course I can read myself, I’m not an idiot. I’m telling you to prove to me that you can read it.”

He already knew you could. But he also knew it would aggravate you, and he enjoyed that. The fact that he found your voice pleasing to listen to had nothing to do with it.

As expected, you let out an annoyed huff, “Incorrigible…. Fine.”

The corners of both sets of lips curled into a smirk.

Your voice was easy to listen to as you spoke, reading off the foundational rules of barriers and their applications. He could probably have fallen asleep to it if he had let himself.

“A domain expansion can only be considered complete once the barrier itself has been closed, allowing one’s technique to permeate through the area uninhibited-”

“False,” Sukuna grinned, opening one eye to fixate it on you. “Tengen was operating under the assumption that one wouldn’t be able to understand the nature of the world around them enough that they would be able to manifest their own technique into the very air around them in a meaningful way.”

“Oh?” You looked at him, a genuine curiosity in your expression that he found gratifying.

“Although I suppose she’s partially correct; No mere sorcerer would be able to complete a domain expansion without a closed barrier. There are no records of anyone before me being able to do it,” He mused, “But accepting defeat before even attempting something is what keeps others weak and helpless.”

[frogsmulder]

Between Sheets

STAR TREK VOYAGER; Post coital cuddling and Janeway wonders about Chakotay's tattoo; about 700 words; rated m; Read on ao3

The captain’s quarters were dim, only the light from the stars streaming by illuminated their faces. Just after duty shift had ended, she had inconspicuously invited him round for another poorly cooked dinner. The glow from the candles in the living area still flickered in the entrance way of the bedroom several hours later. The nut roast was only slightly burnt this time, a marked improvement, yet it still tasted bitter. She didn't know why he kept accepting her invitations to dinner, the food certainly was not the reason. Perhaps it was the good company, Janeway mused.

She was still new to this; there was an undeniable thrill to having her commander between her sheets, especially one as handsome and as caring as hers. She gazed into the rich warmth of his eyes, watching the starlight twinkle back at her. His skin was warm beneath her fingertips as she traced languid patterns across his chest. His smile–so often of late–filled her with a peace she had almost forgotten existed in the delta quadrant. Quietly she melted into it, caressing the lines at the corner of his mouth and eyes. Her own smile was an almost permanent fixture, one that she carried everywhere beyond their quarters. She felt lighter than she had in years.

She snuggled closer to him under the blankets, cherishing the way his grip on her waist tightened. “Careful Commander,” she cautioned teasingly, “You wouldn't want to be caught man handling your captain.”

His laugh lines deepened and dimples appeared as he chuckled. “I don't suppose anyone would believe me–” Chakotay pulled her closer, her body flush to his– “if I told them it was your idea.”

The heat radiating from his body made her skin tingle. Slowly, satisfaction was melting back into desire and an ache for a deeper contact grew.

Janeway hummed. “I seem to remember you being somewhat… enthusiastic.”

Arms scooping around her body, he rolled them so he could gaze up at her. Her long hair fell over her shoulders, shrouding them from the duty and responsibilities outside.

“You always make me enthusiastic.” He emphasised his meaning, kneading the flesh of her ass.

Janeway couldn't help but give a throaty laugh.

She mirrored the path his thumb made back and forth against her skin on his cheek, placing a gentle lingering kiss to his lips. As she drew back, she considered the perfection of his defined cupid's bow. She traced with her fingertips up to the prominence of his nose, around the strong arches of his eyebrows. She kissed him again. Then, hand hovering above his temple, she searched his soft eyes. “May I?”

He chuckled and nodded.

Tentatively, she reached out, imagining the needle that left the ink beneath his skin, etching the same path. Her fingers brushed around in sweeping loops, following the trail back and forth like a sailor mapping the waves of the ocean. She could feel his gaze on her, ripe and heavy. He explored the wonderment painted on her face as much as she traversed his.

“Did it hurt?”

“Would you think me less of a man if I said yes?”

Her smile grew. “Never.”

“Then, it hurt like hell.” The corner of his mouth quirked impishly and he tucked another fallen stand of hair behind her ear. “But it's been worth it every single day.”

She thought of all that it meant: hope, commitment, honour, respect, honesty, endurance, all markers of a great man and what she considered every meaningful relationship should be built upon. Tracing a final line, she placed a kiss to his forehead. She placed another on his lips, memorising the feel of crest of the waves of his lips. The kiss slowly flowered, blooming with heat when his tongue scouted hers out. Her fingers fell from his face and dragged over the broad expanse of his chest. She hummed and dug her nails in slightly. “Thank you."

With a playful smile, Chakotay shook his head incredulously. “I should be thanking you.”

[houseofchirontx]

November 2024 Astrology

November 2024 brings a powerful and transformative series of astrological transits that set the stage for profound change, both on a personal and collective level. This month marks the beginning of cycles that will unfold over the coming months and years, initiating shifts in how we experience emotional growth, communication, societal structures, and personal empowerment.

The cosmic energy of November is charged with the themes of transformation, rebirth, and realignment with long-term goals. With the dynamic forces of Mercury and Mars retrogrades, Pluto’s final entry into Aquarius, and Saturn turning direct, we are called to reflect on the past, reassess our paths, and make strategic adjustments as we prepare for a future that demands growth, resilience, and forward-thinking action.

This month’s transits highlight key areas of life that will be tested and restructured:

Deep emotional transformation under Scorpio’s influence.

Revisions to big ideas and ambitions with Mercury and Mars retrograde in Sagittarius.

Power shifts in technology and social structures as Pluto re-enters Aquarius.

Stability in relationships and finances with Venus in Capricorn.

As we move through these cosmic events, we are urged to embrace change, release what no longer serves us, and take a patient, disciplined approach toward our future. November 2024 presents a time of reflection, strategic planning, and slow but deliberate progress, allowing us to align our actions with both personal and collective growth. These astrological energies provide opportunities for transformation, if we are willing to approach them with openness, patience, and a long-term vision.

New Moon at 9º Scorpio

November 1st, 2024

The New Moon in Scorpio on November 1st, 2024, heralds a time of intense emotional renewal and transformation. Scorpio is a sign deeply associated with themes of rebirth, emotional depth, and hidden truths. When a New Moon occurs in this water sign, it invites us to confront the darker, more mysterious aspects of our psyche and the emotional undercurrents that influence our actions. This lunar phase is particularly potent for setting intentions that focus on transformation, healing, and personal empowerment.

Scorpio’s energy can feel intense and all-consuming, but it also provides a pathway to profound growth. This New Moon asks us to embrace the discomfort that comes with change, as it ultimately leads to empowerment and renewal. Over the next 15 days following the New Moon, you will have the opportunity to plant seeds that will flourish over the next six months. Use this time wisely to set powerful, transformative goals related to deep emotional work, purging old attachments, and welcoming new, more authentic ways of being.

Mercury Enters Sagittarius

November 2nd, 2024 - January 8th, 2025

When Mercury enters Sagittarius on November 2nd, 2024, it brings an expansive and adventurous energy to communication, learning, and intellectual pursuits. Sagittarius is a fire sign known for its optimism, enthusiasm, and desire for freedom, which significantly influences Mercury during its extended stay in this sign. From November to early January, Mercury’s journey through Sagittarius will foster a bold and forward-thinking attitude, but not without its challenges, especially as it will go retrograde at the end of November.

Key Themes for Mercury in Sagittarius:

Expansive Communication: Mercury in Sagittarius encourages open-mindedness and a thirst for knowledge. It's a time when we may feel inspired to think big, explore new ideas, and broaden our horizons through travel, learning, or philosophical debates. It’s also a period ripe for promoting big ideas, sharing knowledge, and motivating others.

Restless and Impulsive Thinking: While Mercury in Sagittarius can spark innovative and creative thinking, it can also lead to impatience and a lack of attention to detail. Sagittarius wants to rush ahead, seeing the big picture, but often neglects the finer points. This can result in errors or misunderstandings, especially with Mercury’s upcoming retrograde.

Mercury Retrograde Shadow and Retrograde (November to January)

Mercury enters its shadow phase at the beginning of November, signaling the beginning of Mercury retrograde themes. This shadow period is a precursor to the full retrograde and introduces subtle challenges related to communication, technology, and travel. Miscommunications, delays, or technical glitches might already be noticeable during this time.

Mercury goes retrograde on November 25th, staying in retrograde motion until December 15th. During this time, issues from the shadow period are likely to resurface, requiring reevaluation and correction. Retrogrades often call us to reflect, revise, and revisit ongoing matters, especially those related to information, communication, and travel plans.

Mercury Square Saturn (Three Times)

A key feature of Mercury’s transit through Sagittarius is its square to Saturn in Pisces, which occurs three times:

November 12th (direct)

December 6th (retrograde)

End of December (retrograde)

This aspect represents a major challenge to Mercury’s typically free-flowing and optimistic energy in Sagittarius. Saturn’s influence adds a layer of seriousness, restraint, and even frustration. Let’s break this down:

First Square (November 12th): During Mercury’s direct motion, this first square to Saturn might bring obstacles or delays in communication or planning. You may face challenges in getting your message across, or there could be restrictions around travel, paperwork, or legal matters. Saturn asks for precision, structure, and thoroughness, which contrasts with Mercury in Sagittarius’ impulsive nature. This is a time to slow down and ensure all your details are correct before moving forward.

Second Square (December 6th): Now in retrograde, Mercury squares Saturn again. This is the time when previous issues that were overlooked during the first square could resurface for revision. This is not a period for rushing; instead, it's essential to reflect on mistakes, revise plans, and correct errors, especially regarding documentation, contracts, or any formal communications.

Third Square (End of December): As Mercury continues its retrograde, the final square to Saturn will ask for one last review and correction before moving forward. This aspect emphasizes the need for meticulous attention to detail. Anything missed or mishandled earlier will demand attention now, so it’s crucial to handle things cautiously.

Practical Advice:

Backup Plans and Double-Checking: With Mercury retrograde approaching, it's vital to back up any important information, double-check travel plans, and ensure all communication devices are secure. Miscommunications are common during this period, and mistakes could easily slip through if you're rushing.

Mind the Details: Mercury in Sagittarius tends to skip over details in favor of the bigger picture, but the squares to Saturn make it clear that neglecting details will come back to bite. Saturn is the planet of discipline and correction, and its three squares to Mercury mean that if you don’t double-check now, you’ll have to revisit and correct those errors later.

Avoid Rushed Decisions: While Sagittarius energy pushes for action, Saturn’s squares demand patience. This isn’t the time to rush through paperwork, contracts, or important communications. Take your time and ensure everything is properly reviewed before moving forward.

Communication Corrections: With Mercury retrograde and squaring Saturn, miscommunications are likely to occur. Be mindful of how you express yourself, and be open to going back and clarifying if needed. Saturn will insist on accuracy, so if there’s any ambiguity or misunderstanding, it will need to be addressed.

Election Season Influence: Given that this period coincides with election season in some regions, there could be delays or revisions related to election results. Saturn’s involvement indicates that any errors or miscommunications could result in recounts or corrections, leading to potential delays in the final outcomes.

Reflection and Planning During Retrograde

Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius is not just a time of frustration but an opportunity to reflect on the bigger themes in your life. Are you communicating clearly with others? Are your plans rooted in reality, or are they based on overly optimistic assumptions? This retrograde, especially with Saturn’s involvement, asks you to think carefully about long-term strategies and to revisit any plans or ideas that may have been hastily put together. Key Takeaways:

Communication Caution: Mercury retrograde brings its usual issues with miscommunications, but the square to Saturn intensifies the need for careful, deliberate speech and writing.

Focus on the Details: Don’t let Sagittarius’ big-picture enthusiasm overshadow the need for precision. Saturn will make sure that anything skipped over gets revisited.

Backups and Safety: Ensure all important documents, passwords, and digital data are secured before retrograde begins. It’s crucial to be prepared ahead of time.

Reflective Question: How can you harness the expansive energy of Mercury in Sagittarius while staying grounded and attentive to detail during Saturn’s influence?

Guiding Question: What projects or communications require careful review and revision during this retrograde period, and how can you ensure long-term success by addressing these issues now?

Mars Enters Leo

November 4th, 2024 - January 6th, 2025

Mars entering Leo from November 4th, 2024, to January 6th, 2025, brings an intense surge of energy, ambition, and assertiveness. Mars, the planet of action, drive, and desire, in the bold and fiery sign of Leo amplifies these qualities, making it a time for personal power, leadership, and creativity. However, before Mars fully embraces Leo's dynamic energy, it will make a significant opposition to Pluto in Capricorn, setting the tone for the early part of this transit.

Opposition to Pluto in Capricorn – November 3rd-5th, 2024

Before Mars fully enters Leo, it opposes Pluto in Capricorn around November 3rd to 5th. This is an intense and potentially volatile aspect that can stir up power struggles, confrontations, and clashes of will. Mars in Cancer at this time represents the emotional, defensive side of action, while Pluto in Capricorn embodies control, authority, and manipulation. When these two energies oppose each other, there can be tension between the desire for personal freedom and the external pressures of authority or societal structures.

Key Themes of the Mars-Pluto Opposition:

Clashes of Power: Expect tensions in areas where personal desires (Mars) conflict with external power structures (Pluto). This could manifest in confrontations with authority figures, governments, or any system of control. On a personal level, this could bring up intense conflicts with others, especially where manipulation or power dynamics are involved.

Rebellion and Anger: Mars in Cancer (pre-shadow) is emotional and reactive, while Pluto in Capricorn is strategic and controlling. This combination can fuel rebellious tendencies and provoke anger, particularly around issues of feeling suppressed or manipulated. People may feel compelled to fight back against perceived injustices or restrictions.

Potential for Violence or Aggression: This is a period where aggressive or even violent energy can come to the surface. Whether in personal relationships or larger societal contexts, tempers may flare, and people may act out impulsively. It’s wise to avoid volatile situations or confrontations during this time.

Collective Tension: On a broader scale, Mars in Cancer represents "the people," while Pluto in Capricorn symbolizes governments or institutions. This opposition could indicate a period of social unrest, where collective frustrations with authority or governance boil over, leading to protests, demonstrations, or other forms of public resistance.

Mars in Leo: A Surge of Power and Expression

When Mars enters Leo on November 4th, the energy shifts from the more defensive, emotionally reactive state of Cancer to a bold, outward-facing, and highly expressive Leo. Mars in Leo is all about taking center stage, asserting one's willpower, and expressing creativity with confidence.

Key Themes for Mars in Leo:

Bold Leadership and Action: Leo is the sign of the lion, symbolizing courage, leadership, and personal pride. Mars in Leo drives us to take charge, pursue our desires fearlessly, and showcase our talents. This is a great time for self-promotion, stepping into leadership roles, or pushing forward with creative projects.

Passion and Drama: Mars in Leo can be highly passionate and dramatic. There's an urge to express yourself boldly and make a lasting impression. Whether in love, work, or personal ambitions, expect heightened emotions and a desire for recognition.

Creative Drive: Leo rules creativity and self-expression, and Mars energizes this area. It’s an excellent time to dive into artistic or performance-related projects, as well as anything that requires personal flair and a strong sense of identity. Your personal ambitions are likely to get a boost during this time.

Overconfidence and Ego Clashes: While Mars in Leo brings confidence, it can also fuel pride and arrogance. Be mindful of ego clashes, especially in leadership or competitive environments. While it's important to assert yourself, there’s a risk of coming off as domineering or overly self-centered.

Mars Retrograde in Leo – December 5th, 2024

Mars enters its pre-retrograde shadow phase in early November, culminating in its retrograde station on December 5th. This is a significant transit because Mars will be retrograde in Leo, forcing us to slow down, reevaluate, and potentially redirect our efforts in areas related to personal power, leadership, and creativity.

Mars Retrograde Themes:

Revisiting Ambitions: Mars retrograde often causes delays or setbacks in the areas of life where we’ve been trying to assert ourselves. During this retrograde, expect to revisit personal goals, especially those tied to leadership roles, creative projects, or areas where you’ve been seeking recognition.

Ego Check: Retrogrades are often times of reflection, and with Mars in Leo, this can bring up issues around ego, pride, and how we handle conflict. It’s an opportunity to reassess how we approach competition, leadership, and self-expression. Are you acting from a place of authentic confidence, or are you driven by ego and the need for external validation?

Tension Between Action and Rest: Mars retrograde can feel frustrating because the natural forward-moving energy of Mars is slowed down. It’s important to be patient during this time, as pushing too hard could lead to burnout or setbacks.

Mars-Pluto Opposition Redux – December 2024

Mars will again oppose Pluto in Capricorn during its retrograde phase in December. This brings back the themes of the earlier opposition in early November, but this time, they are intensified by the retrograde energy. Expect unresolved power struggles, conflicts, or suppressed anger to resurface, offering a second chance to handle these issues differently.

Managing Mars-Pluto Tensions and Retrograde Challenges:

Avoid Confrontation: With Mars opposing Pluto twice during this transit, it’s crucial to avoid escalating conflicts or confrontations, especially with authority figures or in situations where power dynamics are at play.

Use Neptune’s Energy for Healing: As you mentioned, Neptune forms a harmonious aspect (trine) to Mars during this period. This softens the aggressive energy and offers a way out of tense situations. Neptune encourages forgiveness, compassion, and spiritual perspective. If conflicts arise, try to de-escalate with kindness and understanding rather than force or aggression.

Practice Patience and Self-Reflection: Mars retrograde is not the time for aggressive action or pushing your agenda. Instead, use this time to reflect on your goals, work on your inner confidence, and focus on personal growth rather than external validation.

Key Takeaways:

Leadership and Creativity: Mars in Leo is a time to step into the spotlight, pursue your creative passions, and lead with confidence. Just be mindful of letting your ego get in the way.

Power Struggles and Conflict: The Mars-Pluto opposition (twice) warns of potential confrontations and power struggles. Avoid dangerous situations or confrontations with authority figures and focus on finding peaceful solutions instead.

Retrograde Reflection: Mars retrograde in Leo from December 5th will slow down your progress, forcing you to reassess how you assert yourself and express your desires. Use this time for introspection and refining your goals.

Reflective Question: How can you assert your personal power without letting ego or pride cloud your judgment?

Guiding Question: What creative or leadership goals need reevaluation during Mars retrograde, and how can you approach them from a place of inner confidence rather than external validation?

Venus Enters Capricorn

November 11th, 2024 - December 7th, 2024

When Venus enters Capricorn, it brings a more serious and pragmatic approach to matters of love, relationships, and finances. Venus, the planet of beauty, love, and money, feels the weight of Capricorn’s disciplined and goal-oriented energy. During this transit, there’s a focus on long-term investments, not only financially but also in relationships and personal values. It’s a time to align our desires with practical, long-term goals, emphasizing stability, commitment, and responsibility.

Key Themes of Venus in Capricorn:

Long-Term Investments and Practicality: Venus in Capricorn is less concerned with short-term pleasures and more focused on building something that lasts. In terms of finances, this is an excellent time to think about savings, retirement, and long-term investments. You’re more likely to spend money wisely, making purchases that serve your long-term goals rather than fleeting desires.

Relationships Rooted in Stability: Capricorn’s influence on Venus makes us take a more serious approach to love and relationships. This transit encourages us to focus on relationships that provide security and long-term potential. It’s a time when commitment, loyalty, and shared goals take precedence over excitement or passion. Relationships may feel more structured and disciplined, but this helps create a solid foundation for future growth.

Wealth-Building Energy: Capricorn’s earth energy combined with Venus’ rulership over money makes this a powerful time for wealth-building. This isn’t about quick wins or speculative risks—it’s about slow, steady growth and making financial decisions that will stand the test of time. Think of this as a season to budget wisely, pay attention to long-term goals, and invest in things that offer stability.

Challenging Aspects to the Cardinal Signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra)

During this Venus in Capricorn transit, there will be some tension created by challenging aspects to the cardinal signs: Aries, Cancer, and Libra. Let’s break down what this means, especially with the nodes currently in Aries and Libra and Mars transiting Cancer.

Venus Square Mars in Cancer:

Mars in Cancer represents emotional, protective, and sometimes passive-aggressive energy, while Venus in Capricorn is all about structure, discipline, and long-term planning. This square could create tension between your emotional needs and your practical goals. Relationships may feel out of sync, with one person wanting to focus on stability and long-term planning (Venus in Capricorn) while the other may be more concerned with emotional security or family matters (Mars in Cancer).

This aspect can lead to conflicts where emotional intensity clashes with a desire for order and practicality. It’s important to balance your emotional needs with your long-term plans during this time.

Venus Square the Nodes (Aries/Libra Axis):

The North Node in Aries and South Node in Libra are pulling us toward independence and self-assertion (Aries) while releasing codependent tendencies and seeking balance (Libra). Venus in Capricorn squaring this nodal axis could bring challenges around aligning personal and relationship goals with your soul’s growth path. You might feel torn between pursuing your own ambitions (Capricorn) and maintaining harmony in relationships (Libra), or between focusing on personal achievements versus collaborative efforts.

This could also manifest as a need to reassess relationships, especially those that no longer align with your long-term goals. If a relationship isn’t supporting your growth or stability, you may feel the need to reevaluate it during this transit.

Venus Square Aries Energy:

With the North Node in Aries, there’s a strong pull towards independence and assertiveness. Venus in Capricorn, however, focuses on traditional values, structure, and responsibility. This square could create tension between your desire to forge your own path (Aries) and the need to maintain practical, grounded relationships and financial decisions (Capricorn). Finding a balance between self-assertion and practical cooperation will be key during this transit.

Venus Square Libra Energy:

The South Node in Libra represents areas of life where we need to let go of people-pleasing or indecisiveness. Venus in Capricorn squaring Libra can bring up issues in relationships where there’s a lack of balance or mutual effort. Capricorn’s no-nonsense approach might clash with Libra’s desire for harmony and compromise, leading to moments where tough decisions need to be made in partnerships or financial matters.

Practical Advice for Navigating Venus in Capricorn:

Focus on Long-Term Goals: Venus in Capricorn is about aligning your values with your long-term aspirations. Whether it’s in love or finances, make sure that your decisions are building towards something meaningful and sustainable.

Be Mindful of Power Dynamics in Relationships: With Venus squaring Mars in Cancer and the nodes in Aries/Libra, there may be tension around control, independence, and emotional needs in relationships. It’s important to communicate clearly about your goals and find a balance between practical considerations and emotional fulfillment.

Commit to Financial Discipline: This transit is a great time to focus on budgeting, saving, and making wise financial decisions. Avoid unnecessary spending and think about how your financial choices today will impact your long-term stability. Look for opportunities to invest in things that hold long-term value.

Navigating Relationship Challenges: The squares between Venus and the cardinal energies suggest that relationships will be tested during this period. If you find yourself in a power struggle or feeling out of sync with a partner, focus on long-term goals and shared values rather than getting caught up in emotional reactions.

Check Your Values: Capricorn asks us to get clear on what we truly value. Are your relationships and financial choices reflecting your deepest values and goals? If not, this is the time to make adjustments and align with what’s most important to you.

Key Takeaways:

Long-Term Thinking: Venus in Capricorn is all about taking a responsible, structured approach to love and money. This is a time to focus on building strong foundations, both in relationships and finances.

Challenging Aspects: The squares to Mars in Cancer and the nodes in Aries/Libra create tension between emotional needs, independence, and practical considerations. These aspects ask for patience and reflection, especially when navigating relationship or financial decisions.

Invest in Stability: Whether it's in your personal relationships or financial life, focus on choices that lead to lasting security and stability. Avoid impulsive decisions and think about the bigger picture.

Reflective Question: How can you align your relationships and financial decisions with your long-term goals during Venus in Capricorn?

Guiding Question: What values or commitments need to be reassessed to ensure that you are building a stable foundation for the future in both love and money?

Full Moon at 24º Taurus

November 15th, 2024

This Full Moon in Taurus, occurring on November 15th, 2024, is anything but the peaceful, stable energy we usually associate with Taurus. While Taurus is typically about comfort, stability, and enjoying life's sensual pleasures, this Full Moon brings a wild intensity due to its alignment with Algol, the fixed star known for its darker and more volatile qualities, as well as its conjunction with Uranus, the planet of sudden changes and rebellion. This combination creates a potent atmosphere, charged with the potential for dramatic shifts, revelations, and even upheaval.

Saturn Stations Direct at 12º Pisces

November 15th, 2024 - July 13th, 2025

When Saturn stations direct on November 15th, 2024, at 12º Pisces, there is a palpable shift in the collective energy. Saturn is the planet of discipline, structure, and responsibility, and its retrograde periods are often marked by delays, internal reflection, and challenges that require us to revisit unresolved issues. As Saturn turns direct, the restrictions and blockages that were present during its retrograde period start to ease, and progress can once again move forward.

Key Themes of Saturn Turning Direct:

Release of Restrictions: When Saturn is retrograde, we often feel as though we are moving through molasses—everything seems slower, more burdensome, and restrictive. Saturn asks us to work hard on restructuring areas of our lives where we’ve neglected discipline or responsibility, particularly in the house it is transiting in your chart. However, when Saturn turns direct, this pressure begins to ease. Problems that felt stuck or tangled may begin to unravel, allowing us to find solutions and make tangible progress.

Collective Sigh of Relief: Saturn’s retrograde period often feels heavy, like the universe is putting the brakes on our plans. As Saturn stations direct, there is a collective sigh of relief as the pressure starts to lift. We can expect to feel a renewed sense of movement and forward momentum, especially in the areas of life that Saturn has been influencing in the past months.

Reaping the Rewards of Hard Work: Saturn is known for rewarding those who have put in the effort. During its retrograde phase, it tests us, asking us to revisit old problems, put in extra effort, and refine our approach. As Saturn moves direct, the fruits of this labor start to become evident. If you’ve been diligently working through obstacles, restructuring your life, or facing challenges with patience, this is the time when you may begin to see positive results and the easing of previously difficult situations.

Specific Influences of Saturn in Pisces:

Saturn in Pisces brings a focus on dissolving boundaries, working with emotions, and addressing spiritual or creative issues with discipline. Saturn here asks us to create structure around our dreams, ideals, and subconscious patterns. During its retrograde period, these themes may have felt heavy, and unresolved emotional or spiritual issues could have resurfaced for review. As Saturn moves direct, the emotional or spiritual work you've been doing starts to show results, allowing for greater clarity and a sense of purpose.

Emotional and Spiritual Healing: Pisces is the sign of intuition, spirituality, and emotional depth. With Saturn moving direct in Pisces, there is an opportunity to move forward in areas of emotional healing or spiritual growth. If you’ve been doing the inner work to address past wounds or emotional baggage during Saturn’s retrograde, you’ll now find that the path toward healing becomes smoother.

Manifesting Dreams with Discipline: Saturn in Pisces is about grounding our dreams and spiritual aspirations into reality. During the retrograde, there may have been setbacks or a sense of being disconnected from your goals. As Saturn turns direct, you can start putting concrete plans into place to achieve your long-term visions, balancing creativity with discipline.

Impact on Capricorn and Aquarius Sun, Moon, or Rising:

Because Saturn rules both Capricorn and Aquarius, these signs feel its movements more strongly. With Saturn turning direct, those with significant Capricorn or Aquarius placements (Sun, Moon, or Rising) will experience a shift in how they handle responsibilities and challenges. The intensity of Saturn’s retrograde may have felt particularly burdensome for these individuals, requiring extra focus on restructuring areas of life related to work, career, and personal responsibilities.

For Capricorn: Saturn’s direct motion can bring relief in areas related to career, long-term goals, and your sense of achievement. The hard work you’ve been putting in during Saturn’s retrograde period will start to bear fruit, and you may feel less pressure and more clarity about your direction.

For Aquarius: Saturn’s direct motion will feel like a weight being lifted, especially around issues of personal growth, identity, and how you relate to the world. If you’ve been feeling restricted or under pressure to conform, this shift can bring more freedom to express yourself and move forward with greater confidence.

Practical Advice for Navigating Saturn Direct:

Embrace the Easing of Obstacles: If you’ve felt like you’ve been swimming against the current during Saturn’s retrograde, now is the time to allow yourself to go with the flow. Saturn direct provides an opportunity to finally see progress in areas that felt blocked or restricted.

Implement What You’ve Learned: Saturn retrograde forces us to reevaluate how we’ve approached certain responsibilities or challenges. Now that it’s moving direct, take the lessons you’ve learned and apply them moving forward. Saturn rewards maturity, patience, and perseverance, so put those qualities to use in practical ways.

Plan for Long-Term Success: Saturn in Pisces asks you to balance your dreams with practical, long-term planning. If you’ve been rethinking your goals or direction during the retrograde, now is the time to start implementing those plans with a clear, structured approach.

Be Patient with Yourself and Others: As Saturn stations direct, progress may still be slow at first. Saturn’s energy is methodical and deliberate, so don’t expect immediate results. However, you can trust that steady progress will come if you continue to work diligently and with patience.

Key Takeaways:

End of Delays and Restrictions: As Saturn moves direct, expect to see fewer delays and restrictions in the areas of life where Saturn has been transiting. Solutions to problems that felt insurmountable may now become clearer, and you can start moving forward with greater ease.

Rewards for Hard Work: Saturn rewards discipline, focus, and patience. If you’ve been working hard on addressing challenges, especially in areas related to spirituality, emotional health, or long-term planning, this is the time when those efforts may start to pay off.

Progress in Emotional and Spiritual Matters: With Saturn in Pisces, there is a focus on emotional and spiritual development. Saturn’s direct motion allows you to make tangible progress in these areas, helping you to create more structure and clarity around your personal healing and spiritual path.

Reflective Question: What lessons have you learned during Saturn’s retrograde that you can now apply to move forward with greater discipline and clarity?

Guiding Question: How can you create practical plans that align your spiritual or emotional growth with your long-term goals as Saturn moves direct in Pisces?

Pluto Re-Enters Aquarius

November 19th, 2024 - March 8, 2043

When Pluto re-enters Aquarius on November 19th, 2024, it begins its final and extended transit through the sign of Aquarius, marking a profound shift in global and societal dynamics that will last until 2043. Pluto is a planet associated with deep transformation, power struggles, and the exposure of what is hidden. Its movement into Aquarius brings a new focus on themes related to technology, society, science, and collective power. This transit promises revolutionary changes, much like its historical counterparts, which include times of significant social upheaval, revolutions, and shifts in power from established institutions to the masses.

Pluto in Aquarius: Key Themes (2024-2043)

Technocratic Tyranny vs. Collective Power:

Pluto in Capricorn (since 2008) has already dismantled our trust in traditional institutions like governments, corporations, and authority figures. With Pluto entering Aquarius, the focus will shift to new forms of power and control, particularly in the realms of technology and science. Aquarius is associated with technological advancement, and Pluto’s energy can expose and transform the ways in which technology is used to control or liberate societies.

Technocratic Power: There is a possibility that we could see an increase in the use of technology to monitor and control populations. This could manifest as advancements in surveillance, digital governance, or artificial intelligence. However, as Pluto scrutinizes these developments, there will likely be public pushback against any form of tyrannical control through technology, leading to power struggles between governments, tech corporations, and the masses.

Transformation of Social Structures and Communities:

Aquarius rules social systems, communities, and the collective. Pluto in this sign brings deep transformations to how societies are organized and governed. As power shifts away from traditional hierarchies (a legacy of Pluto in Capricorn), we may witness the rise of decentralized systems, collaborative governance, and new forms of social organization that give more power to the people.

Revolutions and Insurrections: Pluto’s transit through Aquarius aligns with times in history marked by revolutions and social upheaval. During Pluto’s last transit through Aquarius (1778-1798), both the French and American Revolutions took place, radically transforming societal structures. We may see similar revolutionary movements in the coming years, driven by a desire for greater equality, freedom, and human rights.

Empowerment of the Masses: Aquarius is the sign of the people, the collective, and human rights. This transit could lead to significant movements focused on the empowerment of the common person. Expect a rise in social activism, movements for human rights, and demands for greater autonomy from oppressive or outdated systems.

Scientific Breakthroughs and Technological Innovation:

Pluto in Aquarius promises to bring incredible scientific discoveries and technological advancements. Aquarius rules science, innovation, and the cutting edge of progress, and Pluto’s transformative energy will supercharge these areas. Over the next 18 years, we can expect rapid advancements in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, space exploration, and medical technology.

Scrutiny of Science and Technology: However, Pluto’s influence also brings scrutiny and a deep transformation of the technological and scientific sectors. The use of technology will be critically examined, especially where it intersects with ethics, human rights, and societal welfare. Scientific institutions, technocrats, and leaders in the tech industry will be held accountable for their influence on society.

Shifts in Economy and Markets:

Aquarius is also connected to markets and economic systems, especially those that are innovative, decentralized, or related to technology (such as cryptocurrency or blockchain). Pluto’s entry into Aquarius could shake up the global economy, possibly leading to market collapses or shifts as outdated financial systems give way to new, more progressive models.

Pluto’s Shake-Up of Financial Systems: As seen when Pluto shifted from Sagittarius to Capricorn in 2008 (triggering the financial crisis), major economic disruptions are possible during Pluto’s shift into Aquarius. The first inklings of this could come as Pluto re-enters Aquarius in late 2024. The economy may experience significant shifts, particularly in tech-driven markets, social systems tied to the economy, or innovative new forms of currency and trade.

Population Shifts and Demographic Changes:

Aquarius, as a sign, is connected to populations and demographics. With Pluto in Aquarius, we can expect significant changes in global populations and societal structures. This might manifest in different ways:

Reduction in Population Growth: As you noted, Aquarius is connected to demographics, and Pluto’s association with mortality could bring a reduction in population growth, perhaps due to environmental factors, shifts in global health trends, or changes in societal priorities.

Shifts in Social Dynamics: We may see significant changes in how populations are distributed, how societies organize themselves, and how communities are formed. There could be shifts in urbanization trends, new forms of living arrangements, or changes in how populations engage with technology and work.

Historical Echoes: Revolutions and Power to the People

During Pluto’s last transit through Aquarius (1778-1798), the world saw the rise of revolutionary movements that fundamentally changed political and social structures, such as the French and American Revolutions. These events were characterized by the overthrow of monarchies and the rise of democratic ideals, placing power in the hands of the people.

Revolutions and Insurrections: As Pluto moves through Aquarius again, we could see similar social upheavals, where the people rise up against oppressive systems. These movements could be fueled by dissatisfaction with political or economic elites, technological control, or the desire for greater social equality and justice.

Humanitarian Movements: Aquarius is the sign of humanitarianism, and during Pluto’s transit, we can expect the collective to push for reforms that promote the welfare of all. This could lead to significant progress in areas like human rights, environmental justice, and social equity.

Pluto’s Entrance into Aquarius: A Turning Point

The final entry of Pluto into Aquarius marks the end of its back-and-forth movement between Capricorn and Aquarius. From November 19th, 2024, onward, Pluto will stay in Aquarius, signaling the completion of the transformational work it began in Capricorn.

End of Pluto in Capricorn: Since 2008, Pluto in Capricorn has eroded trust in traditional structures—governments, institutions, and corporations. As it leaves Capricorn for good, we’ll see a final dismantling of outdated power structures, making way for the new energies of Aquarius.

Innovative Future: Pluto in Aquarius brings a focus on the future—new technologies, decentralized systems, and social innovation. The changes that occur during this transit will likely be revolutionary, shaking up long-standing systems and bringing about a new era of technological and social advancement.

Practical Advice for Navigating Pluto in Aquarius:

Embrace Technological Changes Wisely: Pluto’s transit through Aquarius will bring rapid advancements in technology. It’s essential to stay informed and adapt, but also to critically evaluate how these technologies are being used, especially in terms of privacy, ethics, and human rights.

Prepare for Social and Economic Shifts: As Pluto shakes up social systems and markets, it’s important to be adaptable. Economies may shift, and the ways we live and work may evolve quickly. Stay open to new opportunities and be prepared for changing social dynamics.

Contribute to Collective Movements: Aquarius is a sign of collective power and social change. Over the next 18 years, consider how you can contribute to movements that promote equality, human rights, and humanitarian ideals.

Revolutionary Spirit: Prepare for periods of social unrest or collective movements for freedom and change. While these times may be challenging, they also offer opportunities for positive transformation and greater empowerment of the people.

Key Takeaways:

Technological and Social Transformation: Pluto in Aquarius brings deep transformations in technology, science, and social structures, shifting power dynamics and challenging existing systems.

Revolutions and Human Rights: Much like its previous transit, this period will likely see social revolutions, uprisings, and a push for greater equality and empowerment of the masses.

Economic and Demographic Shifts: Pluto in Aquarius could lead to significant changes in global economies and population dynamics, particularly through technological advancements and social innovations.

Reflective Question: How can you embrace the revolutionary spirit of Pluto in Aquarius to contribute to positive social change and innovation?

Guiding Question: What role will you play in the transformation of technology, society, or human rights during Pluto’s extended stay in Aquarius? 

Sun Enters Sagittarius

November 21st, 2024 - December 21st, 2024

As the Sun enters Sagittarius on November 21st, 2024, we welcome a shift toward expansion, adventure, and higher learning. Sagittarius season is a time of optimism, exploration, and seeking truth. Sagittarius is a fire sign ruled by Jupiter, the planet of abundance and growth, and its energy encourages us to broaden our horizons, whether through travel, learning, or philosophical exploration.

However, this Sagittarius season also brings Mercury and Mars retrogrades, adding layers of introspection and slowing down the typical fiery energy that Sagittarius brings. While the Sun urges us to look forward and pursue new adventures, these retrogrades call for revisiting past plans, ideas, and actions, ensuring that we take a more thoughtful and deliberate approach to our goals.

Key Themes of Sun in Sagittarius:

Optimism and Expansion: Sagittarius is known for its positive outlook and desire for growth. This season encourages you to think big, set new goals, and explore new possibilities. Whether it’s through travel, learning new skills, or diving into philosophical or spiritual pursuits, Sagittarius season is a time for expansion.

Adventure and Freedom: Sagittarius craves freedom and adventure. This is the time of year to break out of routines, seek new experiences, and embrace the unknown. The Sun in Sagittarius inspires spontaneity and a desire to break free from limitations.

Seeking Truth and Higher Learning: Sagittarius is deeply connected to wisdom and truth. It’s a time for asking big questions about life, meaning, and purpose. The Sun in this sign encourages exploration of higher knowledge, whether through formal education, spiritual study, or philosophical reflection.

Mercury and Mars Retrogrades During Sagittarius Season

While Sagittarius season is typically full of forward momentum, this year’s energy is tempered by the presence of Mercury retrograde and Mars retrograde. These retrogrades call for a more reflective and cautious approach to the usual Sagittarian optimism.

Mercury Retrograde (November 25th - December 15th): Mercury’s retrograde during Sagittarius season asks you to slow down and revisit past conversations, ideas, or plans. It’s a time to review and reflect rather than charge ahead. Miscommunications and travel delays can be common, so double-check your plans and be mindful of how you express yourself.

Review and Reflect: Instead of rushing forward with new ideas, take this time to reflect on what you’ve learned over the past year. Sagittarius is a sign that loves to explore new concepts, but with Mercury retrograde, this is the time to review those ideas more deeply before implementing them.

Mars Retrograde (December 5th - January 23rd, 2025): Mars retrograde in Sagittarius will slow down the typical assertive and adventurous energy of this sign. You may feel more introspective about your goals and ambitions, questioning how to pursue them more effectively. Mars retrograde asks for patience and careful planning rather than bold action.

Revisit Goals and Actions: With Mars retrograde, it’s important to be mindful of how you expend your energy. You may need to reassess your approach to certain projects or ambitions, ensuring that your actions align with your long-term goals.

Sun Sextile Pluto in Aquarius at 0º – Exact on November 21st, 2024

As the Sun enters Sagittarius, it makes an exact sextile to Pluto at 0º Aquarius. This aspect adds a powerful transformative energy to the start of Sagittarius season. Sextiles are harmonious aspects, offering opportunities for growth and transformation through effort and conscious action.

Empowerment and Transformation: Pluto’s influence in Aquarius, combined with the Sun’s entry into Sagittarius, creates an opportunity for deep personal and collective transformation. Aquarius is the sign of innovation and collective power, while Pluto represents profound change and the exposure of hidden truths. This sextile brings the potential for empowerment and transformative insights, especially in areas related to personal growth, freedom, and societal change.

Aligning Personal Power with Collective Change: This aspect encourages you to align your personal quest for truth and expansion (Sun in Sagittarius) with larger societal or collective changes (Pluto in Aquarius). You may find yourself thinking about how your personal goals contribute to or align with collective movements for change and progress. This is a time to step into your power and make meaningful contributions to the world around you.

Embracing the New and Revolutionary: Pluto in Aquarius signifies transformation through technology, innovation, and progressive ideas. As the Sun sextiles Pluto, you may feel drawn to explore new and revolutionary ways of thinking. This is a great time to embrace forward-thinking ideas and look for ways to revolutionize how you approach your personal goals or contribute to society at large.

Practical Advice for Navigating Sun in Sagittarius with Retrogrades:

Revisit Past Goals and Adventures: With both Mercury and Mars retrograde, this Sagittarius season calls for a more reflective approach. Instead of charging ahead with new goals, take time to review past plans and make adjustments where needed. Use this period to refine your vision for the future.

Focus on Inner Growth and Spiritual Expansion: Sagittarius is the sign of higher learning and spiritual exploration, and this season is perfect for diving deeper into your spiritual practices or philosophical studies. Use the retrograde energy to explore your inner world and gain new insights about your path forward.

Avoid Impulsive Decisions: With Mercury and Mars retrograde, impulsive decisions may lead to setbacks. Sagittarius’ fiery energy can make you want to act quickly, but these retrogrades ask for patience and careful consideration. Make sure your actions align with your long-term goals.

Embrace Transformation and Innovation: The Sun’s sextile to Pluto at the start of this season is an invitation to embrace change and innovation. Look for opportunities to transform areas of your life that feel stagnant, and be open to new, progressive ideas that align with your personal and collective goals.

Key Takeaways:

Reflective Sagittarius Season: While Sagittarius season is usually all about expansion and adventure, the retrograde energies of Mercury and Mars ask for a more thoughtful and introspective approach. Take time to reflect on your goals, revise your plans, and align your actions with your long-term vision.

Transformation through Pluto Sextile: The Sun’s sextile to Pluto in Aquarius at the start of this season brings powerful opportunities for personal empowerment and collective transformation. This aspect encourages you to think about how your personal growth aligns with larger societal changes.

Slow, Deliberate Growth: With retrogrades slowing down the usual Sagittarian momentum, this is a time to embrace slow, deliberate growth. Revisit your goals, refine your vision, and prepare for future success once the retrogrades have passed.

Reflective Question: How can you balance Sagittarius’ desire for expansion with the introspective and revising energy of Mercury and Mars retrograde?

Guiding Question: What personal transformations can you make during this time that align with the larger collective changes happening in the world around you?

Mercury Stations Retrograde at 22º Sagittarius

November 25th, 2024 - December 15th, 2024

Mercury retrograde periods are known for their challenges in communication, technology, and travel. During this retrograde, Mercury will be moving through the fiery and adventurous sign of Sagittarius, which brings a unique set of circumstances. Sagittarius is a sign associated with big ideas, optimism, exploration, and the search for truth. However, as Mercury stations retrograde, it slows down the usual forward-thinking and expansive energy of Sagittarius, urging us to reflect, revise, and reconsider our plans.

Key Themes of Mercury Retrograde in Sagittarius:

Revisiting Big Ideas and Plans: Sagittarius is a sign that loves to think big, set grand goals, and push boundaries. However, with Mercury retrograde, it's time to revisit these plans. During this period, ideas that seemed inspiring may need adjustments, and large-scale projects may require revisions. Instead of jumping into new ventures, use this time to reassess your goals and ensure that they are grounded in reality.

Communication and Misunderstandings: Mercury retrograde is notorious for causing misunderstandings, and in Sagittarius, these miscommunications may revolve around big ideas, philosophical beliefs, or travel plans. Sagittarius’ desire for direct and bold communication can clash with Mercury’s retrograde energy, leading to potential oversights or misinterpretations in conversations. Be mindful of how you express your opinions and ideas, and be open to revisiting conversations that need clarification.

Reconsidering Travel and Education Plans: Sagittarius rules travel, higher education, and exploration. Mercury retrograde in this sign often brings delays or disruptions in these areas. If you’re planning any trips during this time, double-check itineraries, bookings, and travel arrangements to avoid last-minute changes. Similarly, educational or academic plans may need revision, and students or educators may experience delays in progress or communication issues around important academic work.

Retrograde Energy in Sagittarius: Revisiting Beliefs and Truth

Sagittarius is the sign of truth-seeking, higher learning, and philosophy, making this Mercury retrograde period an ideal time to reflect on your personal beliefs, long-held opinions, and philosophical perspectives. As Mercury retraces its steps through Sagittarius, you might find that your worldview or personal truth is up for reassessment.

Philosophical Reflection: Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius invites you to go deeper into your beliefs. You may feel called to reflect on how your current perspectives align with your long-term goals and your spiritual or philosophical outlook. Are the truths you hold still serving you, or is it time to explore new perspectives?

Questioning Ideals: Sagittarius is associated with ideals and broad visions, but Mercury retrograde can highlight where those ideals need refinement or reconsideration. You may encounter situations that challenge your previously held beliefs or that reveal gaps in your understanding. This retrograde period encourages questioning and adjusting your mindset to better reflect your personal growth.

Mercury Retrograde Challenges:

Miscommunications and Overconfidence: Mercury retrograde can cause breakdowns in communication, and in Sagittarius, a sign known for bluntness and enthusiasm, this can lead to overconfident or poorly thought-out statements. There may be a tendency to rush into conversations or decisions without fully thinking them through, which could lead to misunderstandings. Be mindful of how you communicate, especially in situations where tact and precision are needed.

Travel and Legal Matters: Sagittarius rules long-distance travel and legal matters, and Mercury retrograde here can bring complications or delays in both. If you’re involved in legal matters or planning trips, double-check all details and be prepared for unexpected changes. Travel plans may be disrupted, and legal paperwork might require revisions or face delays.

Technical and Digital Challenges: As always with Mercury retrograde, technology can be prone to malfunctions. This is especially relevant for those working with digital platforms related to learning, teaching, or communicating on a large scale. Make sure to back up important files and double-check the reliability of any technology you’re using for education, presentations, or online communications.

Mercury Retrograde Sextile to Mars Retrograde

During this retrograde, Mercury will form a sextile aspect to Mars retrograde, adding an interesting dynamic to the retrograde energy. Mars retrograde tends to slow down assertive actions, while Mercury retrograde asks us to rethink our communication and plans. This sextile offers an opportunity to harmonize reflection and action.

Slow, Thoughtful Action: This aspect encourages you to take deliberate, thoughtful steps toward revising plans or ideas. While both planets are retrograde, this sextile can help you align your inner drive (Mars) with the mental clarity needed to refine your plans (Mercury). It’s not a time for rushing forward, but for carefully reworking things with the intention of long-term success.

Strategic Adjustments: Mars retrograde in Cancer (at this time) encourages us to be protective and cautious, while Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius pushes us to reflect on big ideas and long-term goals. Together, these retrogrades create a favorable environment for making strategic adjustments in how you approach your goals, ensuring that your actions are aligned with your philosophical or long-term vision.

Practical Advice for Navigating Mercury Retrograde in Sagittarius:

Revisit and Reflect on Long-Term Goals: Sagittarius is future-focused, but Mercury retrograde calls you to slow down and reassess those big plans. Take this time to reflect on whether your long-term goals are aligned with your current values and beliefs. Adjust your vision as needed to ensure it reflects the growth you’ve experienced.

Double-Check Travel Plans: If you’re traveling during this retrograde, be extra cautious. Mercury retrograde often brings travel delays, cancellations, or mishaps, and in Sagittarius, which rules long-distance travel, these issues can be more pronounced. Confirm your bookings, allow extra time for delays, and have backup plans ready.

Be Mindful in Communication: Mercury retrograde often causes misunderstandings, and with Sagittarius’ love of bold, direct communication, it’s easy to say something without thinking it through. Be extra careful with your words during this period, especially in philosophical debates, academic discussions, or any situation where beliefs and ideas are being exchanged.

Explore New Perspectives on Beliefs: Use this retrograde to explore new ideas or reflect on your current beliefs. Sagittarius seeks truth, but Mercury retrograde suggests that the truth may not be as clear as you think. This is a great time to review spiritual or philosophical texts, revisit past ideas, and consider if your current worldview still serves you.

Key Takeaways:

Reflect and Revise Big Plans: Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius is not a time to rush into new ventures. Instead, use this period to reflect on your long-term goals, reassess your beliefs, and refine your plans for the future.

Communication and Travel Caution: Be mindful of how you communicate, especially around big ideas, and double-check travel arrangements or educational plans to avoid disruptions.

Philosophical Reassessment: This retrograde offers an opportunity to reflect on your personal truths, spiritual beliefs, and higher learning goals. Use this time to explore new perspectives and ensure your beliefs align with your current reality.

Reflective Question: How can you use Mercury retrograde in Sagittarius to refine your long-term goals and beliefs?

Guiding Question: What personal philosophies or ideals need revision during this time, and how can you align them with your evolving sense of truth?

About the Author

Hi, I'm Jasmeen, a professional astrologer, Reiki Master, and mental health professional. I founded House of Chiron to blend traditional astrology and psychology, helping clients achieve personal growth and emotional well-being. Visit House of Chiron for more insights and personalized sessions. Thank you for joining me on this cosmic journey!

[sensualnoiree]

astro notes: daily transits 9/19

Thursday, September 19, 2024, ushers in a fresh wave of energy as the Virgo Sun forms a liberating trine with Uranus in Taurus, encouraging practical changes that lead to greater freedom. The Aries Moon amplifies this drive toward innovation and risk-taking, fostering an atmosphere ripe for entrepreneurship and bold moves. Throughout the day, key lunar aspects—sextiling Jupiter, conjuncting Chiron and Eris, and opposing Venus—shape our emotional experience, creating a complex interplay between self-determination, collaboration, and personal growth. This is a day where we’re invited to embrace change, take risks, and balance our need for independence with the necessity of working with others.

Key Influences

Sun Trine Uranus: Practical Innovation and Liberation: The Virgo Sun forms a harmonious trine with Uranus at 27°07' Virgo–Taurus, sparking a desire for change that’s both practical and freeing. This aspect blends Virgo’s methodical, detail-oriented energy with Uranus’s innovative, rebellious streak. The result is an opportunity to make adjustments in our routines, habits, or approach to life that lead to greater autonomy. This is a great time to experiment with new methods or technology that can simplify tasks, improve efficiency, or open new doors. There’s a sense of excitement in the air as we’re encouraged to think outside the box and make bold moves toward personal liberation, especially in areas related to work, health, or daily responsibilities.

Aries Moon Sextile Jupiter: Confidence and Optimism: At 11:10 a.m., the entrepreneurial Aries Moon forms a supportive sextile to expansive Jupiter, boosting confidence and inspiring us to take new risks. This aspect brings a wave of optimism, making us feel capable of tackling challenges and seizing opportunities. It encourages boldness, especially in matters where we seek growth, whether personal, professional, or financial. There’s a “go big or go home” attitude in the air, as Jupiter amplifies the Aries Moon’s adventurous spirit. This is a great time for pursuing new ventures or expanding existing ones, as the universe seems to be offering a green light for progress.

Aries Moon Conjunct Chiron and Eris: Healing Through Boldness and Confrontation: In the afternoon, the Aries Moon conjuncts Chiron at 1:43 p.m. and Eris at 6:20 p.m., bringing themes of healing and self-assertion into focus. The Moon’s conjunction with Chiron highlights the importance of healing wounds related to confidence and independence. It encourages us to step into our personal power and face any insecurities that may be holding us back. Meanwhile, the Moon’s alignment with Eris adds an edge of confrontation, prompting us to stand up for ourselves, even if it means challenging the status quo. These aspects help us build stronger self-confidence and assertiveness, making it easier to take risks and claim our place in the world.

Moon Opposite Venus: Balancing Independence and Collaboration: The evening brings a tension between self-determination and collaboration as the Aries Moon opposes Venus in Libra at 8:13 p.m. This aspect creates a push-pull dynamic between the desire to pursue personal goals (Aries Moon) and the need for harmony and partnership (Venus in Libra). It challenges us to find a balance between asserting our own needs and working cooperatively with others. Relationship tensions may arise, particularly if there’s a feeling that one’s independence is being compromised or that a partner is not being supportive enough. This aspect calls for compromise, encouraging us to honor both our individual desires and the importance of maintaining harmonious connections with others.

Integrating the Influences

Embrace Change and Innovation: Sun Trine Uranus: The Sun–Uranus trine offers a chance to make practical, yet liberating changes in your life. Embrace opportunities to innovate and streamline your routines, whether through technology, new methods, or fresh perspectives. This is a great time to break free from old habits that no longer serve you, especially in areas related to work, health, or daily responsibilities. Take bold steps toward personal autonomy, knowing that the changes you make now will ultimately lead to greater freedom and efficiency in the long run.

Take Calculated Risks: Aries Moon Sextile Jupiter: The Aries Moon’s sextile to Jupiter encourages you to take risks and pursue new opportunities with confidence. Whether it’s launching a new project, expanding an existing venture, or stepping into a leadership role, this aspect gives you the optimism and courage to go for it. Just be mindful of overextending yourself; while the energy is expansive, it’s still important to approach opportunities with a sense of realism. Trust in your abilities, but also make sure you have a solid plan in place.

Heal and Assert Your Independence: Moon Conjunct Chiron and Eris: The Moon’s conjunctions with Chiron and Eris invite you to heal old wounds related to confidence and self-worth. This is a powerful time to confront any insecurities or fears that have been holding you back from fully embracing your independence. Don’t shy away from difficult conversations or situations where you need to assert yourself. These aspects support you in standing up for your needs and boundaries, even if it means challenging the expectations of others. Through this process, you’ll emerge with a stronger sense of self and a deeper understanding of your own worth.

Balance Independence with Collaboration: Moon Opposite Venus: The evening’s Moon–Venus opposition asks you to find a balance between your personal ambitions and your relationships. While it’s important to pursue your own goals, this aspect reminds you not to lose sight of the value of collaboration and partnership. If tensions arise in relationships, take a step back and consider how you can honor both your need for independence and your partner’s needs. Compromise may be necessary, but it doesn’t mean sacrificing your individuality. Instead, find ways to work together that allow both parties to thrive.

follow for more astro insights like this and head on over to @quenysefields or my etsy --> sensualnoiree to grab my new astrology guidebook on reading your own natal chart :)

[jubileemon]

A common criticism of the first season is that, as a result of being only 8 episodes set over the course of 6 months, the first season doesn't have much room to develop its characters, relationships, and storylines. Many point out that the show would have better benefitted from having a 10 or even 12 episode season, and would actually welcome filler episodes so as to further flesh out the dynamics between the characters and the various plot threads.

In particular, the Overlords such as the Vees and the five month period skipped over are cited as areas that could use expansion, as the former are rendered advertised extras due to their lack of involvement in the greater plot, and the latter is seen as ripe for a period of character exploration like Angel Dust's struggles with redemption.

[rikanescence]

wc: 1.2k // 'straw' // cousin leon & you !

the flavours of the countryside swirled around in your mouth and, sticking your head out the car window for that cool summer, highway breeze, you felt you'd puke it all out onto the rocky road. you didn’t know much, but you had a fair share of negative assumptions. made from tv shows and whatnot. you'd gotten appetisers, sure. you knew they lived in a ranch in rural america, knew they were farmers, and… that's about it. when it came to your extended family all the way in the outskirts of bumfuck illinois, you had yet to get a proper taste.

you were a little too old for it, but your parents had no problem force-feeding you if it meant you'd get that taste. so this summer, you'd be with the Kennedy's who… lived on a farm, worked on a farm and— jesus, you were going to sleep in an animal house, probably. flies, horse manure, no internet... you'd gotten your serving early, it seemed, and it left a sour taste in your mouth. you brought your head in from the window and leaned on the carseat, giving the rolling green hills a final glance before letting your fault-finding eyes close. sleep would greet you before your relatives did, it seemed, but you hoped the people would at least give you a warmer welcome.

nature’s air smelled like the green grass the cows grazed and it was a change you endorsed, the crisp wind you were eager to breathe in slipping through your nostrils and flowing out in a content sigh from your smiling lips. you scanned the vast expanse of the farm, lively though there was no sign of human life past its entrance. you reckoned your relatives were likely the entire population of the local area. giving the farm closer inspection, watching all the moving pieces that brought it to life, you thought of all the (easy) ways you could make yourself useful here. there was hope you'd enjoy yourself after all.

—♡—

your hands were clammy, glued to your aunt’s by sticky sweat. the sun's daylight beat down on you and you were only glad the woman was considerate, dragging you on a tour through the farm, but never urging you towards labour. your only job was to decipher her ceaseless ramblings, going at a hundred words per minute, the words rushing through your ears like ticklish summer ants marching. crawling up your skin. the pressure to keep listening, coupled with the fear of getting your hands dirty, was an uncomfortableness you forced yourself to endure. worst case scenario she wrapped the tour up early and sent you to do some real farm work. would she plop you down on a tractor?

you reminded yourself that she was considerate, it would be ill-mannered to interrupt her. the ants were marching to a melody now, one you tuned your ears to use as the soundtrack for your visit. the wind's whistling, the dogs’ barking, your aunt’s chatter, and everything else. it all came together in perfect harmony, playing in the background while you gave yourself your own tour, guided by your curious eyes and not your aunt. the old oak-hickory fences hammered into the drying soil that sectioned off the estate, but formed a path for you to walk along between them. ripe, fruitful apple trees grew larger before you as you approached them and your appetite was whet by the natural shine to them, sunshine. there was one thing. one moving, living thing that made the ants fade away completely and brought your melody to a halt. who was that? was that your cousin? you watched the distant male figure work away in the heat. the sleeves of his tight-fitting, western button-down rolled up till his beefy forearms. when you came to such an abrupt halt in your tracks, your aunt’s steps were also forced to a stop, she was jerked back by your hands stuck together. her words could prove their importance now. it wasn’t weird to ask for your cousin’s name, right? that’s only courtesy.

“hey, who's that?”

she turned her head to you, then in the direction yours faced.

“ah,” she smiled, “leon?”

leon.

“working hard as always,” your aunt noted, quieter than her usual speech.

“anyways…” as you braced for a ramble, you felt the ants were back. tearing your eyes from leon, so was the harmony.

—♡—

to be blunt, you'd rather have slept on the floor than your sorry excuse of a bed. the solid, rough mattress dug into your skin like scratchy straw in the night, stirring you from sleep before the rooster could. good morning, america. windows had bonded with you since your arrival in the countryside, the fresh air and view from sticking poking your head out in the countryside was much better than the noise pollution— and literal pollution— from the city. the apple trees waved their leaves at you, good morning. the grass swayed at you, good morning. a man lifted his head towards you, squinting under his hand’s protection from the blinding sunlight to make out your face.

“good morning!”

was that leon? it was hard to decipher facial features from here, but the dirty blond hair matched.

out so early, already at work, doesn't he have anything better to do? no, that's wrong. he's dedicated to his work. ‘working hard as always’, you ought to help him out. your brain stirred with schemes, mouth curling with cunning cheer. cousins help their cousins, right? especially if they were at risk of a heatstroke. 

your steps were featherlight as you descended the stairs, careful not to wake anyone who could interrupt your— anyone who needed their rest! you filled a glass from the kitchen cabinets with water, watching its level rise like the tension within you, taunting to spill if not treated with care. you advanced towards leon with a lump in your throat, careful not to spill, jittery when seeing him so close. his back was turned to you, busy with what looked like weeding.

“um, hey,” you called out, quieter than you expected. “you!”

leon turned to you, his face shiny in the sunlight, eyes a little wide before he laughed.

“did you really have to sneak up on me like that?”

his smile was so simple it charmed you, like the farm. you found yourself missing something that still existed before you.

you apologise with a rueful expression, holding out the glass to him.

“for me?” he raises a brow and points a thick, calloused thumb at himself, drawing your attention to his chest for a moment.

“uh, yeah. for you,” you confirmed, looking away.

leon graced you with another smile.

“much appreciated, but…” he bit the inside of his cheek, eyes averting after noticing your less than rural attire.

“you sure you'll be alright out here wearing… that? y’know, those nice legs of yours’ll get scraped up real bad if you don't cover em up. insects and the like,” he worried. hmph. you thought the denim shorts made you look like a quaint farm girl. overalls next time, you suppose. you couldn't respond fast enough, so leon spoke up before an awkward atmosphere could build.

“thanks, though, sugar.”

his rough hand took a strong grasp around the glass and tilted it, allowing the water to flow into his mouth like a waterfall. his adam's apple bobbed as he gulped it down. he caught you staring. pupils locking onto yours from his eyes’ corner before a smug face washed over him.

your earlier hopes weren’t in vain. now, you were more than sure you’d enjoy your visit.

thank you so much for reading! you wanna talk to him some more? here's his c ai & charhub.

[contreparry]

For DAWDC how bout Berry Picking from the summertime prompts for characters of your choice :)

Here's some Lace Harding and Inquisitor Trevelyan for @dadrunkwriting!

Lace liked scouting the Hinterlands. Oh, it was dull work most of the time. It was mostly wilderness, and lots of it. Naturally there were wild animals, but the vast expanse of land meant stumbling upon a startled deer or furious bear was rare. The greatest threat was the occasional rift in the Veil, which meant contending with a few demons. Those moments were exciting- and dangerous- but most of the time the Hinterlands were a dull but necessary detail.

Other scouts might hate it, but Lace liked it. It gave her a chance to indulge in her hobbies- namely, cataloguing and keeping track of the local wild flora. This was what she was doing now: tracking down a patch of wild strawberries. The majority ought to be ripe if they hadn't been eaten already, and a handful of berries would make for a decent snack while she filled out her report. Cheered by the thought of fresh wild strawberries, Lace climbed up the hill to where she marked the strawberry patch.

Only to find that she had been beaten there.

"Ah, hello. Scout Lace Harding, is it?" a human woman with dark hair and a long staff laying at her side spoke. She was kneeling by the strawberry patch, with a small linen square laid out on in the grass and a pile of just picked strawberry leaves on top of it. For a brief moment Lace thought "apostate, new to area, definitely need to write that in a report" before she recognized the round face and the uniform- plain as it was.

"I- hello, Herald! Didn't expect to see you... around here," Lace exclaimed, glad that she didn't have to pull out her bow and face off against an apostate Mage in the middle of the Hinterlands. She didn't much like the idea of fighting someone who was frightened and desperate. But Herald Trevelyan was hardly a stranger- and was very well known by the Inquisition agents.

"We were heading to the base camp, but I made a detour for these," the Herald held up one strawberry leaf. "Good for herbal teas, you know. But as I have finished my foraging, I shall leave you to yours, Scout Harding. Good day." Her tone was oddly stilted and formal, as if she hadn't had much practice with casual conversation. Lace was going to ask if she wanted a strawberry to go with some of the leaves, or if she learned herbalism from the Circle, or if she liked plants as well, but before she could speak the woman was descending the hill with her bounty in hand.

"Next time, then," Lace resolved, and she knelt down to pick a handful of strawberries the size of the tip of her pinkie finger.

[hylialeia]

finished Fourth Wing and well. Eh

This book started off with a page labeled "BookTok praise", so... there's that.

My most positive note here is that it was a super fast read, even if it wasn't a short one; the pacing stayed quick and gave me a lot of ammunition to keep going, with surprisingly few lulls. It takes the Fantasy School concept and runs with it, and to its credit, it keeps things interesting enough to move forward and makes you want to see how the story turns out, particularly in the first half as we build towards "the Threshing," the event where the book's fantasy equivalent of college students (who feel more than a little inspired by the Dauntless faction in Divergent, albeit with a better in-world purpose for existing) are chosen to bond with their dragons. After that point, I felt a gradual decline in interest beyond the protagonist and her dragons, which while not detrimental to the story, was never fully resolved or reversed.

The worldbuilding was underwhelming. There was clearly thought and effort put into it, enough so that it had potential conceptually, but it never really got the focus or expansion I was hoping for. Atmospherically, the strongest areas were at the school, but beyond that, I felt like we got very little, which is a shame since the narrative decided to switch focus to the larger world near the end. I enjoyed the device of inserting excerpts from in-universe tomes and texts at the beginning of each chapter, though; Crier's War did something similar, and as far as exposition devices go, I think they're clever and fun.

Less fun were the characters - several interesting concepts that made it all the more disappointing when so many of them ended up being basic archetypes with no hint of deeper complexity. There were so many areas ripe with potential exploration and subversion, places where Rebecca Yarros could have turned the standard dynamics and clichés on their heads, but never really did. Bully character is a bully, jealous bitch character is a jealous bitch, etc, etc. Luca and Jack died without being anything other than obnoxious and awful; Violet and Dain's relationship fell apart remarkably quickly. I found some of the side characters intriguing - Rhiannon and Ridoc in particular - but there was never a particularly compelling depth to any of them, and worse, no moments in the story that really pushed that complexity to the surface. Liam seemed to be the one exception to this in a few instances, but that potential never got utilized and was fully extinguished when he died. For a book that started with such an emphasis on potential betrayals and high stakes, most character dynamics play out exactly as they seem and are far less cutthroat than promised.

Violet and Xaden are the worst offenders on this front. From what I gather, the romance was meant to be the main draw in this series, but I have to say, I never felt really pulled in or compelled by the supposed enemies to lovers slow burn between these two. None of their actions are ever those committed by outright enemies, especially not given how ruthless the setting is supposed to be. They don't even actively try to harm each other. I didn't necessarily dislike them as characters - mostly because the writing never took enough risks portraying them as people to ever get that far. They were never "too unlikable" (maybe an attempt to avoid SJM's pitfalls with very, VERY similar character archetypes), which left me finding their whole dynamic incredibly lukewarm. As characters, they felt more like vehicles through which to project what the reader wants to see, and less like vehicles through which to convey the already decided story via their strong personalities and designs.

Speaking of designs, I felt let down by Violet. One of the most interesting and exciting parts of the beginning of the book was in Violet's disability - or what I was led to believe was a disability (brittle bone disease/osteogenesis imperfecta) - and how she navigated that in this militaristic, ableist world. This came up often in the first half of the book, but by the end, it seemingly doesn't matter. It's such a huge missed opportunity, and one that would have fleshed out not only the protagonist, but several other characters and the overall world itself.

Overall, the story was competently written in a technical sense, though there were some stylistic choices that had me rolling my eyes. If I can be totally subjective for a second, the narrative voice really wasn't for me; there were several moments where it stripped some of the more tense moments of of their impact and took me out of the story entirely. In a story striving to portray the horrors of war, nationalism, and propaganda, it was hard to take much of the subject matter seriously with a bunch of fantasy college students calling each other "toxic assholes" or "fucking hot toxic assholes".

But there were dragons, so. 4/10, mostly for that and the pacing.

[unitedstatesrei]

Seattle's Commercial Real Estate Lending Rebounds With 42% Increase in Q1 2025

Key TakeawaysSeattle's commercial real estate lending surged by 42% in Q1 2025, indicating a significant market shift.Factors such as economic pressures, high Treasury yields, and trade tariffs contribute to cautious lending and market volatility.Rising vacancies and negative absorption in the office space sector, along with distressed assets and looming loan maturities, create an environment ripe for investor opportunities. Market Dynamics and Opportunities UnveiledSeattle's commercial real estate lending has experienced a seismic shift with a dramatic 42% increase in Q1 2025. Cascading tremors echo through the market, from Space Needle views to Pike Place shadows.Economic pressures, high Treasury yields, and trade tariffs inject fear into cautious lending practices. A strained office space sector faces rising vacancies and negative absorption. Distressed assets linger amid looming loan maturities. The real estate environment warns of volatility.Investors eye opportunities, faced with urgent decisions. Discover the underlying factors driving these changes.Q1 2025: Navigating Seattle's Real Estate ChallengesThe commercial real estate terrain in Seattle trembles under mounting pressures. Economic expansion and market fundamentals in 2025 ignite a surge in investment activity. Yet, looming challenges and high Treasury yields create both obstacles and market opportunities for strategic investments. Tariffs and other trade policies may impact material costs, adding complexity to investment planning strategies.Multifamily and industrial sectors stand poised for robust growth. These areas remain ripe for those willing to seize the investment trends, reflecting the evolving needs of supply chains. High demand in these sectors offers lucrative pursuits for astute investors. In the broader trend of suburban renaissance, suburban mixed-use developments emerge as attractive prospects.In contrast, the office sector encounters tumultuous seas. Vacancy rates creep upward, rising from 30.1% to 31.2% in Q1 2025 despite increased leasing activities. Investors hold on to high-quality office spaces in prime locations like the Space Needle vicinity, ensuring such investments retain an allure amidst the turbulence.Nevertheless, the challenges grow as negative net absorption persists. Negative net absorption for the Seattle office sector was at -265,000 sq. ft. in Q1 2025. The afflicted office market grapples with pricing volatility and impending loan maturities. Yet, even amid the gusty conditions, projected rises in investment sales call forth the intrepid investor.Seattle's commercial real estate market maneuvers through a deceptive calm. The alluring prospects of the SeaTac Office Center sale, valued at $111M, exemplify notable transactions. It is a beacon in a sea of transactional activity with over $190M reported in sales volume for properties above $1M in Q1 2025.Despite this progress, transaction numbers lag behind the 2024 quarterly averages. More than 31 properties exchanged hands, raising red flags on the indicators dashboard. Investors are urged to stay vigilant in a market marked by high cap rates averaging 6%. Lending conditions wobble under the weight of fiscal uncertainty. With commercial mortgage rates circling 5.35% as of May 2025, lenders tread cautiously. The high tide of loan extensions heralds the era of a cautious lending environment, with lenders reluctant to extend new credit lines amid market volatility.Fixed-rate loans emerge as a lifebuoy, steering investors clear from interest rate fluctuations. The security of fixed rates becomes vital in a maelstrom of economic uncertainties. Tailored, robust financing solutions are the keystone to profitability in a volatile market, mitigating the risks of treacherous financial waters.Forecasting growth in investment sales suggests a glimmer of hope. An expected rise by up to 10% in 2025 remains a demonstration of investors' resilience. As high interest rates and economic uncertainties reign, strategic investors discern significant investment trends.

Distressed assets complicate the horizon, with looming loan maturities casting shadows over the terrain. The specter of market volatility looms large, as pricing volatility ensnares the unsuspecting. Yet, opportunities abound for those with the foresight to invest in sectors with a promising outlook.Seattle's commercial real estate industry teeters on the brink. The juxtaposition of peril and promise underscores the driving imperative for urgency. Failure to act amidst these opportunities might cost dearly in the labyrinth of financial complexities enveloping Seattle's real estate market.AssessmentThe impressive 42% rise in Seattle's commercial real estate lending appears like a tempting golden opportunity, but it's not without its risks. Picture the iconic Space Needle standing tall amidst this growth, casting a shadow that whispers caution about market volatility.Investors, it's time to gear up and dive into this complex landscape before it turns into a missed opportunity. With the ongoing development in lively spots like Capitol Hill, the call for smart strategies gets louder.Don't sit back. The clock's ticking, so make those decisions—swiftly and decisively—before the landscape changes again. Let's navigate this challenge and turn it into a triumph.

[pranjaldalvi]

Mobile Money Market Analysis: Navigating a Digital Financial Revolution

The mobile money market has emerged as one of the most transformative developments in the financial services sector, offering unprecedented access to digital financial tools in both developed and emerging economies. With the rise of smartphones and internet penetration, mobile money platforms are redefining how people transact, save, borrow, and manage their finances—especially in regions with limited access to traditional banking.

This article explores a comprehensive analysis of the mobile money market, focusing on current dynamics, key players, technological drivers, regional performance, and future outlook.

Overview of the Mobile Money Market

Mobile money refers to financial services performed via a mobile device, including payments, transfers, deposits, withdrawals, and even loans. These services are typically offered by telecom companies, banks, and fintech firms. Unlike traditional banking, mobile money does not require a bank account, making it accessible to unbanked populations.

According to GSMA’s 2024 report, there are over 1.6 billion registered mobile money accounts worldwide, processing over $3 billion in transactions daily. The market is growing rapidly, especially in regions like Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Latin America.

Key Market Drivers

Several key factors are fueling the growth of the mobile money market:

Financial Inclusion Initiatives Mobile money has become a cornerstone of financial inclusion, especially in rural and underserved communities. Governments and NGOs are supporting initiatives that encourage digital payments to reduce poverty and promote economic growth.

High Mobile Penetration With increasing access to mobile phones—even in low-income areas—millions of people can now participate in the digital economy. Mobile operators have capitalized on this by offering user-friendly platforms tailored to these markets.

Shift to Cashless Economies The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift from cash to digital payments due to hygiene concerns and lockdowns. This trend continues as consumers and merchants increasingly prefer mobile money for safety and convenience.

Government and Regulatory Support Supportive regulatory environments in key markets have encouraged innovation and investment in mobile financial services. Central banks are developing frameworks to enhance interoperability and reduce fraud.

Regional Market Analysis

Sub-Saharan Africa

This region leads globally in mobile money adoption, accounting for over 70% of global mobile money transaction volume. Services like M-Pesa (Kenya), MTN Mobile Money (Ghana, Uganda), and Airtel Money (Nigeria) dominate the space. Mobile money has revolutionized personal finance, small business operations, and even government disbursements.

Asia-Pacific

Countries like India, Bangladesh, and the Philippines have seen rapid mobile money adoption through platforms like Paytm, bKash, and GCash. Regulatory support from institutions like the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has fostered a competitive landscape that encourages innovation.

Latin America

Nations like Mexico, Colombia, and Brazil are witnessing growing usage of mobile wallets such as Mercado Pago and PicPay. The region's young population and high smartphone penetration make it ripe for further expansion.

Middle East and North Africa

While still developing, countries such as Egypt and Jordan are making strides in mobile banking adoption, thanks to efforts by the private sector and government-driven digital transformation agendas.

Key Industry Players

Several global and regional players are shaping the mobile money landscape:

Safaricom (M-Pesa)

MTN Group

Orange Money

Vodafone

PayPal (Venmo)

Square Cash App

Alipay and WeChat Pay (China)

These companies continue to innovate, offering new services such as microloans, insurance, and investment options directly through mobile platforms.

Challenges Facing the Market

Despite robust growth, the mobile money market faces several challenges:

Cybersecurity threats and fraud risks due to increasing transaction volumes.

Regulatory hurdles in countries with outdated financial laws.

Lack of digital literacy among rural populations, slowing adoption.

Interoperability issues between different mobile platforms and banks.

Overcoming these barriers will be critical to sustaining long-term growth and ensuring secure, inclusive financial ecosystems.

Future Outlook

The mobile money market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 20% between 2024 and 2030, driven by innovations in fintech, AI integration, and rising demand for digital-first services. Future trends include:

Cross-border remittance services expanding through mobile platforms.

Blockchain-based mobile wallets ensuring better security and transparency.

AI-powered fraud detection to combat cyber threats.

Integration with e-commerce and social platforms to enhance user convenience.

Conclusion

The mobile money market stands at the forefront of financial transformation, enabling millions to access essential services once out of reach. With continuous technological advancements and expanding regulatory support, the sector is poised for sustained growth. Businesses, governments, and financial institutions must collaborate to address challenges, seize opportunities, and ensure the benefits of mobile money are universally accessible.

[mysublimedestiny]

Frozen Vegetables Market: Key Drivers Fueling Growth Through Trends, Technology, and Consumer Demand

Frozen Vegetables Market Drivers: Unpacking the Growth Momentum

The global frozen vegetables market is experiencing significant growth, driven by evolving consumer preferences, technological advancements, and expanding distribution channels. The market was valued at over USD 20 billion in recent years and is projected to grow steadily, driven by rising demand for convenience and health-conscious eating.

1. Rising Demand for Convenience Foods

Modern lifestyles have led to an increased demand for convenient food options. Frozen vegetables offer a quick and easy solution for meal preparation, aligning with the needs of busy consumers. Their extended shelf life compared to fresh produce reduces food waste and ensures year-round availability. Whether for quick stir-fries, soups, or ready-made meals, frozen vegetables fit seamlessly into fast-paced daily routines.

2. Expansion of Retail Channels

The proliferation of supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online grocery platforms has enhanced the accessibility of frozen vegetables. With more retail outlets offering cold storage facilities and dedicated frozen food sections, consumers can easily incorporate frozen vegetables into their shopping habits. The rise of e-commerce grocery platforms has further improved reach, especially in urban areas, fueling the growth of the frozen vegetable segment.

3. Technological Advancements in Freezing Techniques

Advances in freezing technologies, such as individual quick freezing (IQF), have significantly improved the quality and nutritional retention of frozen vegetables. These methods preserve the texture, flavor, and nutrients of vegetables, making them comparable to fresh alternatives. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware that frozen vegetables can be just as healthy and delicious as fresh, which is encouraging broader adoption.

4. Urbanization and Changing Dietary Habits

Urbanization, particularly in developing regions, is bringing lifestyle changes that favor convenient and health-oriented food products. With more people living in cities, time constraints and smaller living spaces often lead to reduced home cooking time. Frozen vegetables provide an efficient, low-maintenance alternative that still aligns with the desire for healthy meals. This shift is especially prominent among younger populations who value both nutrition and efficiency.

5. Emphasis on Health and Nutrition

Today’s consumers are more health-conscious than ever before. They are looking for food products that are nutrient-dense, low in additives, and easy to prepare. Frozen vegetables, which are typically harvested at peak ripeness and flash-frozen soon after, retain most of their original vitamins and minerals. As a result, they are an attractive option for health-aware individuals seeking quick and nutritious meal components.

6. Sustainability and Food Waste Reduction

Frozen vegetables contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing food waste. Their longer shelf life minimizes spoilage in households and in the supply chain. Additionally, freezing surplus produce during peak harvest seasons prevents waste and ensures food availability throughout the year. As sustainability becomes a greater priority for consumers and companies alike, this benefit plays a key role in market growth.

7. Product Innovation and Diversification

Manufacturers are responding to consumer demands with a broader range of frozen vegetable products. Innovations include organic frozen vegetables, mixed vegetable blends, and ready-to-cook frozen meal kits. This diversification caters to various dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free preferences. By appealing to a wider audience, brands are expanding the market’s reach and fueling growth.

8. Globalization and Supply Chain Improvements

Enhanced global supply chains and cold chain logistics have allowed frozen vegetables to be distributed efficiently across international markets. Improvements in packaging, transportation, and storage have reduced spoilage and preserved quality. These developments have enabled frozen vegetables to reach new geographic regions, supporting global market expansion.

9. Government Initiatives and Support

In several regions, governments have implemented initiatives to support the frozen food sector. These include subsidies for cold storage infrastructure, export incentives, and public campaigns promoting food security and nutrition. Such support boosts both the production and consumption of frozen vegetables and provides a solid foundation for sustained market growth.

10. Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on consumer behavior, leading to increased home cooking and stockpiling of non-perishable foods. Frozen vegetables emerged as a reliable and practical choice for consumers during lockdowns. Even as the pandemic subsides, many consumers have retained new habits such as batch cooking and meal prepping, keeping demand for frozen vegetables high.

Conclusion

The frozen vegetables market is poised for sustained growth, propelled by convenience, health awareness, innovation, and improved infrastructure. As consumer lifestyles continue to evolve and global food systems become more efficient, frozen vegetables will play an increasingly important role in everyday diets around the world. With continued investment in technology, sustainability, and product variety, this sector will remain a dynamic and integral part of the global food industry.

[boom3010]

Automotive Drum Brake Market on Track for Steady Rise to $5.8 Billion by 2034

Automotive Drum Brake Market is on an upward trajectory, projected to grow from $3.5 billion in 2024 to $5.8 billion by 2034. This growth is underpinned by a solid CAGR of approximately 5.2%. At its core, the drum brake market plays a vital role in ensuring vehicle safety by delivering consistent and reliable braking performance, especially in commercial and budget vehicle segments.

To Request Sample Report :https://www.globalinsightservices.com/request-sample/?id=GIS23223 &utm_source=SnehaPatil&utm_medium=Article

Automotive drum brake systems — comprising brake shoes, drums, linings, and key components — remain widely used across passenger vehicles, light commercial vehicles, heavy-duty trucks, and even two-wheelers. While the automotive industry continues its push toward advanced braking systems, drum brakes retain market appeal due to their affordability, durability, and ease of maintenance.

Market Dynamics

The expansion of this market is influenced by a combination of technical innovations, regulatory pressures, and shifting consumer preferences. Demand for cost-effective braking solutions in commercial vehicles remains strong, with drum brakes favored for their longevity and minimal servicing needs.

However, the market isn’t without its headwinds. The increasing preference for disc brakes, driven by superior performance and reduced stopping distance, presents a direct challenge. Moreover, rising raw material costs and the automotive industry’s pivot toward weight reduction for fuel efficiency are nudging manufacturers toward lighter alternatives.

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Key Players Analysis

A highly competitive space, the automotive drum brake market features both legacy giants and emerging innovators. Leading the charge are Bosch, ZF Friedrichshafen AG, and Akebono Brake Industry, each investing significantly in R&D to refine drum brake technology. Bosch stands out for its strong innovation pipeline, while ZF is expanding its product lineup to cater to emerging markets.

Other notable players include Mando Corporation, Brembo, and Nisshinbo Holdings, which continue to enhance their global footprint through strategic alliances, mergers, and regional expansions. The presence of fast-rising companies like Brake Tech Innovations and Green Drive Brakes indicates that the market is ripe for disruption, especially in the area of eco-friendly and smart braking technologies.

Regional Analysis

Geographically, Asia Pacific dominates the global market, thanks to booming automotive production in China and India, supported by rising urbanization and income levels. The demand here leans heavily toward budget and mid-range vehicles, where drum brakes offer a reliable and cost-efficient solution.

North America follows closely, with the U.S. leading due to its mature automotive ecosystem and regulatory framework that supports innovation in braking systems. Europe also holds significant market share, driven by countries like Germany and France that emphasize safety and performance through engineering excellence.

In Latin America, particularly Brazil and Mexico, vehicle production is climbing steadily, and the aftermarket segment is gaining traction. Middle East & Africa are emerging as promising regions, thanks to infrastructure development and growing automotive demand.

Recent News & Developments

Recent developments indicate a dynamic future for the drum brake market. There’s been a sharp focus on technological advancement, including the use of new composite materials and enhanced braking algorithms integrated with electronic systems.

Manufacturers are responding to stringent environmental regulations by engineering greener brake systems, which is reshaping product pricing and R&D priorities. Additionally, the surge in light commercial vehicle production across the Asia-Pacific region continues to create substantial demand for drum brake systems.

Strategic collaborations are becoming more frequent. Mergers and partnerships are helping companies pool resources to accelerate innovation, improve cost-efficiency, and enter new markets.

Scope of the Report

This report delivers comprehensive insights into the automotive drum brake market across segments such as type, product, technology, component, material, and application. It covers in-depth analysis of key drivers, restraints, trends, and opportunities shaping the global and regional landscapes.

From a quantitative standpoint, the report provides projections on market size, growth rate, and unit volume. Qualitative insights span SWOT analysis, PESTLE assessment, and value-chain evaluation. It also identifies top-performing segments like passenger vehicles, which hold over 55% of the market share, and evaluates the impact of rising electric vehicle production.

Furthermore, strategic recommendations are offered to help stakeholders align their operations with market trends — be it through technological adoption, localization strategies, or sustainability initiatives.

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Global Insight Services (GIS) is a leading multi-industry market research firm headquartered in Delaware, US. We are committed to providing our clients with highest quality data, analysis, and tools to meet all their market research needs. With GIS, you can be assured of the quality of the deliverables, robust & transparent research methodology, and superior service.

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Global Insight Services LLC 16192, Coastal Highway, Lewes DE 19958 E-mail: info@globalinsightservices.com Phone: +1–833–761–1700 Website: https://www.globalinsightservices.com/