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dr-spencer-reids-queen · 4 months

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Conflicted: Final Part

Pairing: Spencer Reid x Female!Reader

Word Count: ~2.3k

Summary: It’s hard convincing people what you can see without the physical proof to back it up. You immediately know who the unsub is, but you have to wait for everyone to catch up to you. How can you make them see what you see?

Warnings: canon violence, canon language, canon talk of death, methods of kill

Author’s Note: I do not own anything from Criminal Minds. All credit goes to their respective owners. If there are any warnings that exceed the normal death/kills from the show, I will list them. If you’ve seen the show, then it’s the same level of angst unless otherwise stated

"State your name."

"Adam Jackson."

"What color are your eyes?"

"Green."

"Where were you the night Carl Cade was killed?"

"At work."

"Who is the current president of the United States?"

"Barack Obama."

"Did you murder Dan Keller?"

"No."

"Did you murder William Browder?"

"No."

"What is thirty-two minus nineteen?"

This is where it gets interesting. Something clicks in Adam's mind. It's only for a split second, but you see the subtle change in his attitude. He tries to hide it, which is why it goes unnoticed by Spencer.

"I don't know."

"Would you kill for Julie?"

"No."

"You lied about the altercation with William. Is there anything else you've lied about?"

"No."

"Did you murder Dan Keller?"

"No."

"What time did you leave work the night William was killed?"

"I don't remember," Adam stutters.

"Have you ever had a sexual relationship with Julie?"

"No."

"Did you murder Carl Cade?"

"No."

"Using the formula y equals mx plus b, what does b represent?"

"I don't know."

"Did you murder Carl Cade?"

"No."

"Did you murder William Browder?"

"No."

"Would you kill for Julie?"

"No."

This is getting nowhere. You and Spencer take a break and give someone else a try with the questioning until almost two hours have passed. Julie and Adam are free to go since there is no hard proof that either of them was involved with the murders. While they are signing out at the front, your team is watching the videos play back not far from them. You can still see Adam from where you are, and your eyes haven't left his since he got to the desk.

Spencer plays back the video again, paying close attention to Adam.

"What are you looking at?" JJ asks.

"I'm not sure."

"Well, they both passed. With flying colors, I should say."

"The only spike I got on Adam was from a control question regarding geometric equations, but I think I just flustered him. Either way, we got nothing."

Spencer looks at Adam who is staring at you and him. There is something in his eyes that tells you Adam is no longer in the building. He has that look about him that screams dominance, but he and Julie are already out the door before you can question it. Spencer sees the same thing you did, and he pulls up the security footage from when Adam tackled William into the pool.

"So, where are we now?" Derek asks.

"Honestly? Nowhere. We just watched our two most viable suspects walk out the door."

"If Adam isn't our unsub, he has all the makings to become one someday."

"Tell me the question that he spiked under in the polygraph," Spencer says. "It was a geometric equation, right?"

"Reid, I really think he was just intimidated. He tried and got it wrong, but he wasn't supposed to know the answer anyway."

"What if he lied? What if he knew the answer but intentionally got it wrong?"

"Why would he do that?" JJ asks.

"Because he realized that he wouldn't know the answer."

"You're losing me, kid."

"Adam said he wasn't getting any rest. He takes midday naps because he's always exhausted. He has a history of blackouts, reclusive behavior, and prolonged repeated abuse suffered at the hands of a dominant male who transferred abuse from his female spouse to his prepubescent child. What if our unsub couple isn't a couple at all? I think Y/N is right. He has another personality in his head."

All eyes are on you and all you can do is shrug.

"You had to come to that conclusion on your own. You say we're a team but right now doesn't feel like it. Excuse me."

You leave the group to grab some air outside. Everyone feels bad for not listening to you but it's hard with this job since they need proof and facts, not intuition even if they believe you or not.

"We've seen this before."

"Check this out. The first intervention is timid and apprehensive, right? Then, he gets knocked down. There's a moment of calm, and then his entire body language changes. I saw this exact same transformation when Adam left the station. Only it wasn't rage, it was arrogance. Like the alter ego wanted me to know."

"Why?" Hotch asks.

"I don't know. Maybe for power or control. All I know is the person that stared me down over there was not Adam. He's not assertive like that. He doesn't make eye contact."

"You think the stress of the interrogation blurred the line between Adam and his alter personality?" Emily asks.

"I think the unsub surfaced for just a moment. It knew the answer to the question, realized Adam wouldn't, and lied. Y/N was right. We profiled the duo accurately, only the dominant personality is inside of Adam."

"Adam has no idea he killed all those people."

"You could argue that Adam didn't kill those people. A separate person inside of him did. It's what Y/N was trying to tell us this entire time."

"Everyone, go over to the Hudson Street Hotel. I'll be right back."

Hotch leaves and finds you outside sitting on the bench just staring at the street. He takes a seat next to you, and you look at him with a sigh.

"I feel like we always seem to have these conversations."

"I'm sorry we didn't believe you."

"It's not that. You guys will never understand what I see on a daily basis. You'll never truly understand how energies and spirits work, and I get that. I am here today because I want to help take down the bad guys and save as many people as I can. You allowed me onto this team for what I can bring to it. I am grateful for the opportunity you have given me.

"I've spent my whole life relying on my gift and using what I see to my advantage. I never had to gather hard evidence because I never needed to. Just as much as you're learning from me, I'm learning from you. I don't know what it's like to see a crime scene and to only know what's physically in front of me. I've never had to piece the puzzle together because I see it whole.

"I know what the law is. I know a judge needs evidence and proof to put someone away. Sometimes I forget that. So, you had to come to that conclusion about Adam on your own. I can give my input but I needed everyone on the same page for us to move forward as a team. You're doing a good job, Hotch. I'm sorry for what I said. We are a team."

"Let's call this a learning experience for us both, yeah?"

"I promise to do better and to gather all the evidence before coming to you."

"No, still come to me. I actually enjoy seeing your view on things."

With that out of the way, you get ready with the rest of the team to head over to the hotel. There are police sirens and ambulances there when you arrive, and you rush to the back to see what the commotion is. Julie is lying on the ground covered in blood because she was pushed off the roof. You look up and see Adam on the roof with an evil look in his eyes. Though, when he mists away, you know he's not actually up there.

"Julie, can you hear me?" Hotch asks carefully.

"Adam..."

"Help is right outside. I need you not to move."

"It wasn't him... strange.

"Julie, did he say where he was going?"

"He called himself Amanda."

"That's his other personality," you say to Hotch.

"Where would he go?"

"Not he, she. Amanda panicked. She knew we would connect this to her."

"Okay, so she's feeling the pressure. She obviously knows she's running out of time. Where would she go?"

"She's gonna go after the man these victims represent."

Amanda is going back to Mark Harrison's house to finally deal with the root of all hers and Adam's problems. He is the reason why Amanda was created in the first place. Penelope sends over the address for Mark, and half of you head over there immediately. The other half stay with Julie in case Adam comes back for her. When you get to Marks' house, you see him bound and gagged to a chair with a bag over his head. Adam is standing next to him with a knife in his hands, but it's not Adam.

It's Amanda.

"Amanda put the knife down."

"Stand back or I'll kill him," Adam says in a feminine voice.

"You do not want to do that."

"You don't know what he did!"

"When Adam's mother died, his stepfather needed a new outlet for his aggression. He put Adam in dresses, beat him, and touched him. Adam was too weak to go through all of that alone. He was just a little boy. He needed me to protect him. I could take it. I was stronger than he was. He deserves to die," Amanda says angrily.

"Amanda, that is not for you to decide. I swear to God, if you put him down and you come with me, I will get you and Adam the help that you guys need."

"Adam will be sentenced for what I've done. No, I can't let that happen."

Amanda lets Mark go and puts the knife to her throat instead. She'll kill Adam rather than watch him go to prison.

"If you kill yourself, you kill Adam. I don't see how that's protecting him. Do you know what I know? I know that all you want to do in this world Is protect Adam."

"It's all I've ever done."

"Then why don't you and I help him together?"

"You can't help him. I'm the only one. I know what I have to do. I will keep him safe forever."

Amanda drops the knife so that Derek can move in to arrest her, but the look in her eyes suggests that she is never letting Adam out of her mind. He will be locked away in his own mind for however long Amanda decides. Spencer rushes over and tries to find the shred of Adam left, but he's gone and you don't think he's coming back.

"Reid, he's gone," you sigh.

Spencer is taking this harder than you thought he would, and you don't know why. While everyone else is focused on arresting Adam and trying to get Amanda to release him, you approach Spencer who is off to the side by himself.

"Hey, what's going on in that big brain of yours?"

"We've taken the victim into custody and let the abuser go free. I don't really see that as much of a win."

"A lot of lives are gonna be saved now that Amanda's off the street. You know that."

"I should have listened to you. I should have known."

"You needed to come to the conclusion on your own, but this is more than just Adam. What else is going on?"

"Tobias Hankel."

"Tobias drugged and tortured you for two days. He almost killed you."

"No, he didn't. The personality of his father did those things to me. The real Tobias saved my life. He brought me back from the dead. I know that Adam is still locked inside his own head somewhere."

"Baby, people with DID are never black-and-white cases. There's always going to be a 'good' personality or someone who is innocent in all of this. It sucks but sometimes, we can't save everyone. Imagine a world if we could."

"Yeah, I guess," he sighs.

"Look, we're in Corpus Christi. The case is over with. My reunion is right around the corner. If you're up for it, would you be my date?"

"I think I can do that," he smiles.

The rest of the team flies out of Corpus Christi that night so they can get home faster, but you and Spencer stay to enjoy a night of memories and old friends. You'll fly back after the reunion and maybe spend the night on the beach or something; something romantic with Spencer before returning to your life.

The reunion is being held at a banquet hall where half your class is already there. Spencer heads straight for the bathroom while you look around for some familiar faces. Sitting by himself in the back is the kid who was being beaten by his dad. He hated you for accidentally telling everyone this even though you never meant to. People were eavesdropping; how is that your fault?

Still, you walk over to him in hopes he's not still mad at you over what happened thirteen years ago.

"Sean?"

"Y/N?"

"I didn't think you'd remember me, honestly."

"How could I forget the woman who saw what no one else did?"

"So, I'm guessing you're not mad at me anymore?"

"Not at all. How have you been? What do you do?"

"I've been good. I'm in the FBI, actually. We just got done with a case just in time for this reunion," you chuckle. "What about you? Are you here with anyone?"

"I'm here by myself. I actually have my own graphic design business." He hands you his business card with a smile. "I do a lot of designs for bands and websites and other things."

"That's amazing."

"Are you here with anyone?"

"My boyfriend is in the bathroom. He told me I should come to this. I wasn't even going to go. To be honest, my time at that school wasn't the best as you know."

"About that, I just want to say I'm sorry. You're the only one who ever saw there was something wrong. Because of you, I finally stood up to my dad and left. I never looked back."

"I'm happy for you. If you're ever in the Quantico area of Virginia, I'd love to take you out and catch up."

"Yeah, that sounds awesome," he chuckles.

"There you are." Spencer comes back from the bathroom. "This place is a maze."

"Sean, meet my boyfriend, Spencer. Spencer, this is Sean, one of my classmates."

"You're very lucky, man."

"I know," Spencer smiles and pulls you closer to him.

Spencer was right, this is giving you closure you never knew you needed. High school was such a long time ago that you don't need to ever worry about what anyone else is doing. You have an amazing boyfriend, a super cool job, and a life you wouldn't trade for anything.

"Monsters are real, and ghosts are real too. They live inside us, and sometimes, they win." - Stephen King

Follow my library blog @aqueenslibrary where I reblog all my stories, so you can put notifications on there without the extra stuff :)

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rabbitcruiser · 10 months

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Jamaica became independent from the United Kingdom on August 6, 1962.

Jamaica Independence Day

Jamaica Independence Day is celebrated on August 6 annually. This day became a national celebration in 1962 when Jamaica became independent with full dominion status in the Commonwealth, under a constitution that retained the British monarch as head of state. The first elected Prime Minister was Alexander Bustamante.

Jamaica’s independence meant that Britain no longer controlled the country’s affairs. Thus, these became primarily managed by the new Prime Minister and his locally elected cabinet. Furthermore, Jamaica’s independence also meant that they had to form a constitution, symbols, emblems, army, currency, and passports.

History of Jamaica Independence Day

Jamaica was one of the first colonies in the so-called ‘new world.’ Jamaica became a Spanish colony in 1509. In May 1655, the British took over the island during the Anglo-Spanish War. In the 1950s, the British Empire broke up; thus, Jamaica took advantage of the situation to make several amendments to its constitution to allow greater self-government and a Prime Minister. In 1958, Jamaica joined the West Indies Federation — a political union of various Caribbean islands that were also colonies of the United Kingdom.

By September 1961, Jamaicans had become dissatisfied with the Federation. The slow-paced move to independence led to a referendum in Jamaica where 54% of Jamaicans voted to leave the Federation. In 1962, the ‘Jamaica Labour Party,’ under the leadership of Bustamante, won the elections, which resulted in the passing of the Jamaica Independence Act by the United Kingdom Parliament on July 19, 1962. On August 6, 1962, the British granted them independence, and the Jamaican flag flew for the first time.

Bustamante became Jamaica’s first Prime Minister, with Jamaica joining the Commonwealth of Nations. The main highlight of Jamaica Independence Day is the ‘Jamaica Independence Festival,’ which showcases a grand parade, traditional music, the World Reggae Dance Final, and other events.

Jamaica Independence Day timeline

1494 Christopher Columbus Sights Jamaica

Christopher Columbus calls it Santiago; however, the original indigenous name, ‘Jamaica or Xaymaca,’ persisted.

1509 Jamaica Becomes a Spanish Colony

Jamaica is one of the first colonies in the so-called ‘new world.’

1655 Jamaica Becomes An English Colony

The island is taken over by the British during the Anglo-Spanish War.

1962 Jamaica Becomes Independent

The Jamaican flag is flying for the first time on August 6.

Jamaica Independence Day FAQs

Does Jamaica have two flags?

No. Jamaica only has one flag, which is unique worldwide as the only country whose flag does not contain the colors red, white, or blue!

How do Jamaicans say hello?

‘Wah Gwaan,’ the most well-known Jamaican greeting, means ‘hello.’ Former US President Barack Obama used it during his inaugural visit to Jamaica.

How do you respond to Wah Gwaan?

‘Mi Deh Yah, Yuh Know,’ means ‘Everything is okay’ or ‘I’m doing well.’ It is the most common response to ‘Wah Gwaan.’

How to Observe Jamaica Independence Day

Attend a celebration

Plan a party

Celebrate the whole weekend

The main celebration takes place at the National Arena in Independence Park in the evening. On Independence Day, Jamaicans take part in grand street parades, wearing clothing colored like the Jamaican flag and putting on all manner of cultural displays.

If you are not chanced to attend a Jamaican party, you can organize one with friends. Be sure to decorate the place with Jamaican flags and play reggae music all night.

In reality, the Jamaican Independence Festival does not only last a day; it’s a week of celebrations leading up to Independence Day. These are seven days of celebration for a general population that knows how to party.

5 Facts About Jamaican Culture

Language

Cuisine

Clothing

Religion

People and traditions

Although English is Jamaica’s official language, the local dialect combines elements of other languages — from Spanish, African, and Irish dialects to British and American phrases.

Jamaican cuisine focuses on Caribbean spices, which pack a punch.

Traditional Jamaican clothes are calico in nature whereby women wear bright handmade dresses and complete their outfits with a headscarf that wraps up the wearer’s hair.

Jamaica is a Christian nation and the majority of the locals are highly religious and attend church on Sundays with the whole family.

Jamaicans have many traditions, and one includes the local practice of burying the umbilical cords of newborns beneath trees with the belief that this gives the baby a permanent connection to its homeland.

Why Jamaica Independence Day is Important

It’s an opportunity to remember the importance of freedom

It’s a time to party

It’s an opportunity to honor those who fought for independence

Jamaica gained its freedom for self-governance after more than 300 hundred years of British colonial rule. However, the road to independence was long and hard.

Jamaicans celebrate this day by partying all weekend long. Thus, this could be an opportunity to have fun with your family and friends.

This day can also be an opportunity to honor those who fought for Jamaica’s independence. Many people must have fought to achieve this and today is the day to honor them.

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natromanxoff · 3 years

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Record Mirror (July 14, 1979): 119/?

THE QUEEN BACKLASH ENDS HERE

WITHOUT DOUBT Queen are among that elite number of bands universally hated by the rock press.

The rancour is, make no mistake, mutual which is understandable. If you find yourself on the receiving end of an inveterate dislike at the outset of your career and watch it being nurtured and carefully cultivated over the next six years you’re bound to retaliate.

Queen’s hatred manifests itself by their continued habit of ignoring the music press i.e. refusing to give interviews. There is the occasional token “chat”, pointless as it is innocuous, but in the main it amounts to a blanket “No.”

One of the last interviews Freddie Mercury gave was the last nail in the perspex coffin. Under a headline which boldly asked ‘Is This Man A Prat?’ the king of the leotards was demolished by one of the old school Queen haters and Freddie obviously came to the conclusion, in its wake, that interviews in future would be both superfluous (he was popular enough) and detrimental.

The curtain, velvet naturally, closed.

Roger Taylor, a little wary, a little weary, sits stiffly in an armchair. The juggernauts rattling the Chelsea Street outside create a sonorous buzz bomb hum in the room.

You expect a member of Queen to look elegant. In fact Roger is only wearing a wine colour mohair jacket, black shirt and blue jeans.

He apologises for being a little late and explains how he went to the wrong address. Roger seems to be the only member of Queen left who is prepared, albeit rarely, to open his mouth in the presence of a hack. A question springs to mind . . . why?

“We all sat around a table before I flew over from Munich to discuss the press situation and we agreed I should be the one to represent the band. Freddie is very uncompromising and refuses to have much to do with journalists.

“Obviously, he’s had a few raw deals with them in the past,” observes Taylor.

Roger himself has a rather low view of the music press.

“Most of it is rubbish. There was something I liked recently, a piece on Malcolm McLaren, but in the main I think I’m the only one of Queen to actually read the music papers.”

Why does he think the band are systemically slagged?

“I think it’s because Queen have always come across as being a rather confident band. We seemed, to other people at least, to be very sure of ourselves. I think the press may have misconstrued the confidence, mistaking it for a form of arrogance. Hence they became wary of our motives which bred a dislike for our music.”

Now that’s what I call a neat conclusion.

At the risk of being sent to Coventry by my colleagues I’d like, if I may, to come clean. I love Queen (you’re fired, Ed).

I think it all began with a simple pre-packed but indisposable line – “Dynamite with a laser beam” and has continued uninterrupted (despite the occasional flaw) right through to ‘Queen Live Killers’.

A combination of reasons, Freddie Mercury’s lascivious lisp – the most attractive intonation known to man . . . Brian May’s reel ‘em off rococo riffs that would, in his capable hands, transform the theme music for ‘Waggoners’ Walk’ into a meisterwork . . . John Deacon’s almost stoic stance, incongruous yet integral . . . Roger Taylor’s intense power, so unexpected from one so slight . . . the ability to go over the top without failing into the trap of caricature . . . a desire to give the punters what they want without pandering . . . that cast iron confidence . . . those nine glorious winter weeks of ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ which kept the cold away from my soul . . .

Yes, I love Queen.

Roger explains the story behind ‘Killers’ which features just about every Queen classic which ever found its way into a silk lined memory bank.

“We always knew that one day we would make a live album. I think it was well planned. About 90 per cent of our last European tour was recorded on a mobile unit and we then spent weeks sitting through the songs in the studio.

“The result is a 100 per cent LIVE album. Nothing has been touched up in the process of selection, I think that’s pretty rare these days. Many ‘live’ albums are tampered with.”

The choice of single is unusual – ‘Love Of My Life’. “It’s not so unusual when you hear the way it came out. The song seems to have such a wide appeal. Everywhere we go the reaction to it is the same. The audience are just bursting to sing along.”

The result is Queen’s best single since ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’ (that was their LAST one crawler, ED)

As I mentioned earlier the band are currently residing in Munich where they are “experimenting” in the studio.

“We are recording in a totally different way for us,” says Roger who speaks with a delicate London accent only typical of cockneys with dramatic training and David Essex.

“Every time we entered a studio in the past we had a good idea of what we were going to do. This time we started from scratch and the result is amazing. The music is nothing like anything we’ve done before, I guess you could say it’s much simpler.”

And this novel approach to their music also extends to their shows. On their next British tour – in the late Autumn – the band will be playing much smaller venues than they are accustomed to.

“In London for example we went to play to audiences of about two or three thousand in different areas. I think it’s much fairer to the fans.”

But won’t this affect their stage show which is after all a crucial factor for any powerpomp outfit?

“Not really. We will just scale down the show accordingly. Besides,” he says taking another bite out of the biscuit, “we haven’t used dry ice in years.”

The monkey on Queen’s back, as corpulent and cantankerous as ever, has been put there by those who firmly believe the band can never emulate past achievements. Roger is cognizant of its presence but refuses to unpeel its bananas.

“That all began after ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’. When it stayed at number one all those weeks we were kindly informed that we would never be able to make another single to rival it both artistically and from the point of view of sales.

“Yet ‘We Are The Champions’ sold a great deal more and has since become the biggest selling single in the entire history of Elektra Asylum – our label in the States.

“We don’t do the amazingly complex things any more because we’ve moved on from that. We concentrate on the music we are doing now and we intend to do it the best we can, it’s ridiculous looking behind and and what you’ve done.

“There’s nothing like going back on the road to re-unite the bond between the four personalities and strengthening our belief in the band. We are a real working unit and, in my experience of the music business, one of the most democratic bands around today.”

A statement like that cries out to be expounded.

“People think every member of all the bands, not naming any names, are treated equally that is get the same money as their colleagues. That’s rubbish. In many bands there are a couple of guys that get all the money. The rest are on wages. Queen share the profits equally.”

And they don’t have a manager taking his cut either, John Reid departed a couple of years back and now the band themselves make all the major policy decisions. Why did they decide to dispense with the services of a manager?

“Basically because we were fed up with giving other people money. Y’know it never ceases to amaze me how naive those guys are in bands who have just had their first hit. After all this time I’ve forgotten just how naive we must have been at the beginning.

“I mean, everything seems so great when you get into the charts for the first time. You’re living on cloud nine and nothing else matters. But in truth that hit means absolutely nothing. So few people achieve any amount of financial success in this business.

“Oh, you think, you’re really living . . . for a while. Somebody gets you a flat in Chelsea and it’s all free. But one day the rent stops being paid for you and you realise you’re skint.

“Since John Reid has gone the four of us have always made a point of discussing everything together. We have various people working for us but all the important decisions are made by us alone. That way we get freedom of choice – and financial independence.”

My attention is suddenly diverted.

“FORTY-LOVE!” Wimbledon, the Persil White opiate for the hoi polloi squashed in a strawberry crush wrings out its perspiring petticoats on the TV in the next room. Roger’s girlfriend, an extremely attractive French girl called Dominique, is engrossed. The couple have lived together for two years. Crippled old marriage questions permeate the air.

“I don’t believe in marriage,” says Roger. “It’s simply a contract and the fewer contracts I enter into the better. If you get on well with someone then there isn’t any harm in living with that person – but marriage is something else again.”

They live in a six bedroomed Victorian house just outside London, which is set in 20 acres. Roger has a “tiny” town house in Barnes as well. What’s it like having a bank full of money at the age of 29?

“I don’t hide away from life. Queen have never been one of those ‘being grabbed in the street’ type bands. It may happen when the four of us are together – but when we are out alone we are seldom bothered. That gives me the opportunity to enjoy myself. I go to clubs a lot. I like having a good time. I don’t think you could describe any of the band as leading sheltered lives.

“But I have completely lost touch with how much things cost. When you find yourself living in hotels for so long you never really deal in money as such. Everything is available whenever you want it – but you never see the cash actually being handed over.

“I’ve forgotten what it was like to be penniless which Queen were for years. I guess that must happen to many successful rock bands.”

Another thing that happens to many successful rock bands – they quit the country. But not Queen it appears.

“We have always based ourselves in England and I see no reason why we shouldn’t continue to do so. We could leave at any time but we choose to stay. People believe we are tax exiles because we spend a lot of the time out of the country recording in studios all over Europe and touring.”

And what will happen when the band finally trudge wearily down the road leading to that ivory strewn elephants’ graveyard . . . ?

“I know it’s bound to happen one day. I suppose I’d take a long, long holiday . . . and then make a solo album.”

#queen #queen band #roger taylor #dominique beyrand #freddie mercury #brian may #john deacon #record mirror #record mirror july 1979 #queen scans

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girlactionfigure · 3 years

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There is a popular quote that circulates every once in a while that reads “One person can make a difference and everyone should try.”

This individual holds a special place in my heart and also the hearts of many long-time Peace Page followers, who found this page after reading a simple story which mentioned her and which became one of the most popular posts on the Peace Page. Her name is Harriet Glickman, she is the teacher who decided to write a letter to Charles Schulz and ask him if he could create a black character on his Peanuts comic strip - that character would become Franklin, one of the first black characters in a popular comic strip. Harriet Glickman passed away Friday morning, March 27, 2020, at her home in Sherman Oaks. She was 93. Her passing was reported by a Peanuts-based website, which quoted a personal friend who said, her passing was "peaceful, in her sleep" and that the former schoolteacher had been "well prepared for this." They say representation matters, and Franklin, even though he was a fictional character, was noticed by many who did not feel they were being represented enough during those days. The original Peace Page post started: "On July 31, 1968, a young, black man was reading the newspaper when he saw something that he had never seen before. With tears in his eyes, he started running and screaming throughout the house, calling for his mom. He would show his mom, and, she would gasp, seeing something she thought she would never see in her lifetime. Throughout the nation, there were similar reactions. "What they saw was Franklin Armstrong's first appearance on the iconic comic strip "Peanuts." Although Charles Schulz deserves the accolades and credit for having the courage to create Franklin and standing by him when he started receiving racist demands to remove him, it was all started by a school teacher who decided to write a simple letter. "Harriet has a very interesting place in history," according to The LAist. "In 1968, she wrote to 'Peanuts' creator Charles Schulz asking him to do something remarkable at the time: integrate his famous comic strip." "Harriet Glickman was a white, 42-year-old suburban Los Angeles school teacher and mother raising three children when Martin Luther King was assassinated in 1968," according to the Press Telegram. According to NPR, she wrote, “Since the death of Martin Luther King, 'I’ve been asking myself what I can do to help change those conditions in our society which led to the assassination and which contribute to the vast sea of misunderstanding, hate, fear and violence.'” Glickman decided to write a letter to Schulz, not knowing whether he would actually read it or even whether he would receive the letter. Glickman was especially aware of the power of comics among the young. “And my feeling at the time was that I realized that black kids and white kids never saw themselves [depicted] together in the classroom,” she said in the Washington Post. She hoped this would bring the country together and show people of color that they are not excluded from American society. At the time, Schulz, the creator of the enormously popular “Peanuts” comic strip, was already being "published in hundreds of newspapers around the United States reaching nearly 100 million readers," according to the Press Telegram. Surprisingly, Schulz did respond, but wasn't sure whether it would be right, coming from him, he didn't want to make matters worse, he felt that it may sound condescending to people of color. Glickman persisted, however, continuing her correspondence with Schulz, even having black friends write to Schulz and explain to him what it would mean to them. She told Schulz that "the gentleness of the [Peanuts would be] 'the perfect setting' for such representation," according to CBR. “I am well aware of the very long and tortuous road ahead,” she added. “I’m sure one doesn’t make radical changes in so important an institution without a lot of shock waves from syndicates, clients, etc. You have, however, a stature and reputation which can withstand a great deal.” This conversation would continue until one day, Schulz told Glickman to check her newspaper on July 31, 1968. On that date, the cartoon, as created by Schulz, shows Charlie Brown meeting a new character, named Franklin. Other than his color, Franklin was just an ordinary kid who befriends and helps Charlie Brown. In a speech at American University of Health Sciences in Signal Hill, California in 2018, talking to a group of children and adults, Glickman said, the 1960s in the United States was “a time long before any of you were born, a time when not everyone was understanding of other people, when young African Americans couldn’t go to the same beach as white children and when schools were separate.” According to the Press Telegram, the Rev. Gregory Johnson, co-founder of American University of Health Sciences who invited Glickman to the event, said he wanted her to know what a profound effect her action with Schulz had on him. “I appreciate so much what you did in improving relations. I wouldn’t be here without you,” he said. Glickman was born in Sioux City, Iowa, and lived in Chicago before moving to Southern California and a job in the Burbank School District and eventually UCLA before retiring. Glickman explained in previous interviews that her parents were "concerned about others, and the values that they instilled in us about caring for and appreciating everyone of all colors and backgrounds — this is what we knew when we were growing up, that you cared about other people . . . And so, during the years, we were very aware of the issues of racism and civil rights in this country [when] black people had to sit at the back of the bus, black people couldn’t sit in the same seats in the restaurants that you could sit . . . Every day I would see, or read, about black children trying to get into school and seeing crowds of white people standing around spitting at them or yelling at them . . . and the beatings and the dogs and the hosings and the courage of so many people in that time." Glickman, according to The LAist, said someone once commented to her that "‘It took courage [to do what she did, to make a stand].’ I said, ’No it didn’t, it didn’t take courage for me to sit in Sherman Oaks in my comfortable home with my three children and type a letter.'" "Courage," she said, "was little Ruby Bridges, the little girl who integrated a school in the south who had to come with the National Guard with people spitting at her and yelling at her and throwing things at her and the parents who drew their children out. That was courage." Because of Glickman, because of Schulz, people around the world were introduced to a little boy named Franklin, and even today, when Franklin is mentioned, fond memories are evoked, such as those like the young, black man, who with tears in his eyes, started running and screaming throughout the house because he was introduced to Franklin for the first time. Barbara Brandon-Croft, the first African American woman to have a nationally syndicated comic strip in the mainstream press, was 10 years old in 1968, said, “I remember feeling affirmed by seeing Franklin in ‘Peanuts.’ ‘There’s a little black kid! Thank goodness! We do matter.’" When the Peace Page first shared its story about Franklin's birth, one Peace Page reader commented, "I normally don't comment on Facebook but I feel compelled to now. As a black child growing up in the 70's and 80's U grew up in mostly white neighborhoods. One of the most difficult things at that time is my sense of where I belonged in the world. I didn't have anybody in my position i could relate to on TV or in the movies. Then I started reading Peanut cartoons and I met Franklin and I saw myself for once. As a character, Franklin was so important to me I named my third son after him. thank you . . . for helping me find my place." That Peace Page story has now reached 22,498,877 people, receiving 2,091,450 reactions. It has inspired an Upworthy article and has been shared all over the world, including by media companies in Australia and Italy. When the Peace Page contacted the Charles M. Schulz Museum in Santa Rosa, California, one of the representatives said that Glickman regularly visited the museum and she was fondly called "Franklin's Mom." When she saw that Peace Page post, she commented on the Peace Page, "It's always a joy for me to share the Franklin story. I consider him my fourth child and he is very much loved." In the speech in 2018 at American University of Health Sciences, she told the audience that it still “feels like yesterday [when Franklin was introduced].” She said some things have changed, but others have not. “We still have so many problems on how we see each other,” she said in an article by the Press Telegram. She told the children: “You can make a difference in making the world a better place. When you see something that makes you feel angry or upset, don’t just complain, do something about it. And remember that we all care for each other; we’re all the same loving, caring people.” She then autographed a book introducing Franklin to Charlie Brown, “Nice to Meet You, Franklin!” and urged each youngster “to make a difference.” Thank you, Harriet Glickman, also, for making a difference and making the world a better place. [Photo courtesy of CBR]

The Jon S. Randal Peace Page

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cheselswood-archived · 2 years

Text

Well it took all day but I finally have Ches’s intro (hopefully) finished. As a disclaimer, this is very long (4,000+ words) and that’s... after I cut an entire section to save space. (Her zodiac chart, which... if anyone wants it let me know and I’ll make a page for it or something.). If you don’t want to read all of it, that’s completely okay! I’d rec reading her basics, bio, and personality section and I’m more than happy to answer any/all questions about Ches at any point so honestly please feel free to dm me on Discord anytime.

From the get go I want to put the TWs tags and what sections they affect. Please feel free to skip those sections (or if you don’t want to, I’d be willing to like make google docs without those sections, or erasing certain references upon request).

Throughout: Mental Health (PTSD, BPD, Anxiety Attacks, Non-Specific mentions of self-destructive behavior but NOT self-harm), Death / Murder (of her mother)

Basics: I get into Ches’s religious views a bit and Abortion is mentioned positively (Reason for Ex-Communication), Alcoholism

Biography: Murder/Death (blood mention), brief mention of addiction, and brief mention of Abuse

Clover: Animal Death (not discussed, but it could be implied with context clues)

Family: These are all marked in front of the paragraph they affect (I really wish I could do a click to reveal thing under a read more, but this is the best I can do). Anyway - Death/Murder, Descriptions of Blood and Gore (nothing too graphic but worth a mention anyway), Child Death, Addiction and Relapses (Cocaine, Heroin, Alcohol), Cheating, Suicidal ideation (probably subtle enough it’s possible to not pick up but I’d rather overtag), Eating Disorders, Self-Harm

Basics.

Name: Hailey Cheshire “Ches” Elswood. ( literally this muse only acknowledges her middle name and her preferred name from it. Hailey is a word that does not compute in her vocabulary) Age: 22 Gender and Pronouns: Woman (She/Hers) Sexuality: Demisexual, Bioromantic Birthdate: July 19th, 1998 Birthplace: Paris, France Zodiac: Cancer Height: 5’3” Group: Ex-Communicated Reason for Ex-Communication: I... mean you’ll learn more about Ches as you read but despite the fact she’s religious (raised Catholic, went back after she left the cult - your muses will see her at mass without fail every time) she’s extremely liberal in her religious beliefs. Like “yes gay marriage, yes abortion, I don’t care what you believe you’re so valid - what works for me doesn’t work for everyone and that’s okay” and you get the gist, I think. So like... this kid literally could have speed-ran ex-communication if she hadn’t been trying so hard to actually be good and try to get into it like her father did when she was a member of the church. Although I’m 99% sure the reason she ended up getting ex-communicated was her mouth, probably came out with “well actually Jesus never said-” and pulled out her bible to prove her point, knowing her.

Relationship Status: Single Occupation:

College Student (English major)

YouTuber - two 1 million sub channels: a diy channel with her step-cousin (think Evan and Katelyn but #platonic) and a theme park history channel where she shows off the fact she knows way too much about them (think Defunctland and Poseidon Entertainment)

Education: Graduate of Collège Alpin Beau Soleil (international private boarding school), currently working on an English degree with full plans to eventually earn a doctorate in the field. Country of Citizenship: United States and France [dual citizenship] Languages Spoken: French (first), English, Swiss, Latin, Portuguese, and a little bit of Italian

Illnesses, Disabilities, and Other Health Things to Note:

Borderline personality disorder (BPD)

PTSD

Allergies: Severe Allergy to the Perciformes family of fish (tuna, mackerel, perch, and bass). Shellfish and salmoniformes (Salmon and Trout) are fine, but she won’t try any other kinds of fish just in case.

Recovering Alcoholic (started drinking way too young, has been in recovery since she was 18).

Tattoos: One, Two

Biography.

TWS: Murder/Death, Mental Illness, (brief mention of) Addiction, and (brief mention of) Abuse

One might say that Ches Elswood was born with a golden spoon in her mouth, but the truth of the reality was the spoon was probably made from diamonds. The Elswood name was always one of prestige, a multi-billion luxury goods conglomerate, a famous uncle as an actor, swiss boarding schools attended by royalty - and that was only her father’s side of the family. One would expect Ches to be out of touch with reality if they only looked at the top couple results of her google search. But, if one only looked deeply enough - they’d find the article of her mother’s murder. Julia Elswood murdered while out shopping with her eight year old daughter, a mugging gone wrong. Ches still wakes up every night on the verge of hyperventilation a decade later, desperately trying to clean her hands of her mother’s blood as if the stains the event has had on her will ever come off. Not that she'd ever let her social media presence reveal the harsh reality, a family rife with addiction and mental health issues, the two younger sisters she had to help raise when she was a child herself when her father shut down, an abusive ex-boyfriend - all those cracks in the picture frame hidden by all the pretty little bows and well placed smiles. The only hint something is amiss on her Instagram feed is her service dog, Clover, the golden retriever she’ll openly cite as saving her life while never quite getting into how.

It was a bit of a shock when Edward Elswood and his new wife, Rebekah, joined the church, packed his bags, and moved from the Upper East Side to the middle of nowhere Kentucky. And for a while, Ches tried her best to follow the rules and fit in. But, eventually she slipped, and got herself ex-communicated. And while she should be upset, in all honesty she’s relieved to be out from under the pressures of everything. Maybe the fact her father entirely disowned her should bother her, but right now she’s a bit too focused on moving forward. (At least, that’s what she’ll tell everyone if they ask.).

Clover.

Clover came into Ches’s life at the time they needed each other most. Ches’s PTSD was starting to get worse, to the point she was functioning robotically at best. Stumbling upon an extremely young puppy with no signs of her mother caused something to click in her, an urge to work through her demons to take care of this dog. So she did. She bottle-fed the golden retriever, took her to the vet for repeated checkups to ensure she was developing fine, and eventually when she was old enough and the dog’s temperament became apparent and it was revealed she’d be well suited for the work - she started to work with trainers to train Clover as a service dog at her therapist’s suggestion.

Clover is a very calm dog, she’s dedicated to her work and it’s very common to see her laying by Ches’s feet watching her. She does NOT eat human food very often and mealtimes are routine, however Ches will sneak her some foods that she doesn’t make very often (and in turn Clover isn’t going to misbehave in public over) in her bowl when the dog isn’t looking on holidays. (Like, for example, a piece of turkey on Thanksgiving).

TASKS:

Responds to Ches’s anxiety and tries to prevent an anxiety attack from occurring when they are in public

Wakes Ches from her nightmares

Interrupts flashbacks, panic/anxiety attacks, and night terrors

Interrupts Ches's more self destructive behavior.

Guides Ches to a safe place (if everything else doesn’t ease Ches’s symptoms)

Retrieve items when pointed and the command Récupérer is spoken (mostly trained to do this to retrieve phones during extremely bad episodes where Ches breaks down on the floor and can’t force herself to get up, sometimes Ches uses this skill because of its usefulness too).

Can call Ches's “dad” (see Logan Elswood) with a K9 phone in the worst case situation.

I feel obligated to link a picture of Clover’s fc here too, so, have a dog pic.

Personality.

Social Standing in Town/Reputation: At this point Ches isn’t entirely sure where she stands in town. Now that she was ex-communicated from Pastor North’s church, her own father and step-mother no longer speak to her. For the most part the rest of her family would require a flight to go see, other than when her brother, Emmett, occasionally visits. And the locals don’t trust her either, so for the most part at this point in Holy Cross she feels alone. She missed human connection, feeling like she’s got a solid group of people to rely on, and she’s hopefully at some point she’ll have one in Holy Cross.

MBTI: ENFP Enneagram: 7w8 (The Enthusiast with The Challenger wing) Alignment: Chaotic Neutral Winx: Light Pokémon Type: Ghost

What sets Ghost Types apart is that they have a past, a history that they can’t escape. That doesn’t necessarily mean a traumatic event. While some Ghosts are mournful or caught dwelling on old pains, others appear to be connected to a distant past of revelry. Ghosts are caught in a state of suspended animation. There is a consistency within them, which harkens back to some moment in time that made them who they are now. Some are obsessive about history, or about honoring their culture’s traditions. Others can’t stop reading books on Attachment Theory, and talking about how they absorbed their parents’ epigenetic trauma. They are at once both rooted and detached. Their existence reminds you time is not real.

Unlike some of the other emotionally-distant-seeming types, such as Ice and Psychic, Ghosts are not intentionally putting walls up between themselves and other people. In fact, they can be over-sharers, telling long stories about their pasts, bearing their most secret selves. There is something very vulnerable about them. Still, there is liminal veil between them and everyone else. The curse of Ghost Types is that they feel things very intensely, they hunger and yearn, and they understand the distant, root causes of many modern-day problems. Yet they can’t seem to fully connect to reality or feel anyone else reaching back at them. They make excellent poets, painters, story-tellers, fanfic writers, cultural historians, and museum curators. [Source because this personality system is not my own doing and I got the descriptions from it comes from]

Pokémon Subtype: Electric

Electric Type personalities are explosive, frenetic, and full of energy. They can be short-tempered and erratic, and often follow their own short-lived caprices and whims. They are also a powerful source of light and inspiration, however, and can be admired leaders if they harness their power properly. Electric Types are modern souls, lovers of technology as well as new ideas.

The most famous and beloved Pokemon, Pikachu, exemplifies the Electric Type. Willful yet adorable, he can be mistaken for a selfish baby. However, when your back is against the wall, you want an Electric Type by your side. They will rise to the occasion and unleash their power in your defense. Sometimes they’re baby, sometimes they want power. [Source because this personality system is not my own doing and I got the descriptions from it comes from]

(She’s also a Ravenclaw if anyone cares about Hogwarts Houses)

Talents, Skills, and Hobbies:

Piano

Archery

Baking

Singing (Voice Claim: Katherine McNamara)

Reading

Forgeries

Lockpicking

DIYS (especially involving resin)

Writing (not creatively though, essays, Defunctworld scripts)

Video Creation

Favorites:

Color: Pink (the watermelon paint color)

Food: Cheap Chinese Food (like think that $5 mall garbage)

Animal: Tigers

Drink: Cherry Cola

Flower: Lilies

Book: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland

Holiday: Halloween (costumes) or Christmas (gift giving)

Movie: The Shining

Scent: Vanilla Bean

Place: Her family’s flat in Paris

Quote:

“and though she be but little, she is fierce” - William Shakespeare

Bêtes Noires:

Color: Dijon

Food: Sushi (a lot of it has to do with that tuna allergy though)

Animal: Domestic Cats, she can tolerate them but they’re one of the few animals she wouldn’t seek out.

Drink: Coffee (it’s a key reason why she drinks it when she’s panicking, because who has time to panic when you’re too busy being offended by what you’re drinking? Not Ches.)

Flower: Roses (she loathes them, dislike is an understatement)

Book: The Hunchback of Notre Dame - Victor Hugo

Holiday: Her birthday

Movie: The Notebook

Scent: Roses

Place: Touristy Locations, she hates being around tourists ok

Misc Fun Facts About Ches.

Ches speaks English and French fluently, her mother was born and raised in Paris so she learnt them both at the same time. She’s also spent quite a few summers / winter breaks in Paris with her grandparents, so she’s got a strong love for the city. A love to the point where if you see her call NYC and Paris home interchangeably, that’s why.

If you call her Hailey she will probably pretend you don’t exist, other than to glare at you until you call the correct name. There’s a couple people she’ll let it slide with but she doesn’t acknowledge that name and she doesn’t really use it.

She’s the mom friend if your mom friend also goes “I HAVE THE BEST IDEA” and drags you into trouble themselves. Like yes this situation may be entirely her fault but she’s going to fuss over you afterward.

This muse does what she wants, I just write it down I apologize for her from minute one.

Ches really… doesn’t seriously date too much because of past relationships (the one where her brother cheated with him, and the one referenced in her bio). She likes to flirt (it’s a fun game to her as long as nobody gets too invested), and honestly while she doesn’t really feel attraction unless there’s a romantic attachment in place, she’s actually not opposed to friends with benefits things either. But the second people start getting too serious she’s out the door. She’s very “you gotta leave before you get left” esc so she tends to panic the second she thinks she might be actually start being into someone. (Which is why you’ve gotta get her attached before she realized it >.> -cough friends to lovers cough- usually but I mean, I go off chem anyway so that’s not really.. a huge deal, just a fun fact!)

That being said platonic I love yous are her shit, she loves her friends a LOT, she will remind you she loves you constantly. And she’s really affectionate, she’ll walk right up and press a kiss to her friend’s cheek, she’s down to platonic hand-hold and cuddle, literally as long as everyone’s on the same page and okay with it - she’s very fond of affection and touch on average.

Ches is rarely sleeps, like ever. In fact, while she’ll never admit to it - she’s afraid of sleeping so while insomnia, nightmares, and night terrors are all valid reasons why she’s so used to running on next to no sleep. She’s really afraid of closing her eyes at night, which further feeds into the cycle.

She’s a bit of a closet nerd - if you look under her bed she has a chest of comic books, she plays video games when she has time (and honestly she misses them a bit when she doesn’t). LGR is one of her Youtube channels, and she knows way too much about DOS for someone who was born past it’s prime.

She got her first tattoo using a forged note of parental consent when visiting New Jersey. Edward Elswood was NOT pleased when it finally clicked to him what she’d done.

Family.

Father’s Full Name: Edward Elswood Father’s Occupation: Majority shareholder and CEO of Elswood, a multi-billion luxury goods conglomerate Mother’s Full Name: Julia Andrieux Elswood Mother’s Status: Deceased (murdered - shot to death by a mugger) Step-Mother: Rebekah Carroll Elswood Step-Mother’s Occupation: Fashion Textile Designer Siblings: Julien Andrieux (deceased), Logan Elswood (28), Jamie Elswood (26), Emmett Elswood (24), Cade Carroll (23), Jonah Elswood (22 - twin brother), Flynn Carroll (19), Effie Elswood (18), Ella Elswood (15) Other Relatives: Véronique Andrieux (grandmother), Vincent Andrieux (grandfather), Ben Elswood (uncle, famous actor), Collen Nichols (step-cousin, her partner in crime on The Elswood & Nichols Show), Belle (niece, Logan’s daughter, 3)

Family Dynamics: ...are y’all sure you really want me get into this? Ask and you shall receive.

Edward Elswood: Ches and Edward are complicated to say the least, and that’s only been amplified now that he’s a member of the North Cult and Ches has been ex-communicated. Honestly she hasn’t spoken to him since she’s left the church, and if she misses him, she’s never going to admit to it.

Julia Elswood: [TW: MURDER / DEATH, BLOOD / GORE MENTIONS] Despite the fact her mother has been dead for over a decade, Ches hasn’t been able to escape her (metaphorical) ghost ever since the day Ches stood there, helplessly watching her bleed out. Ches’s life has been a series of what-ifs surrounding the event ever since the day it took place, and she’s got a huge case of survivor's guilt she’s been slowly working on in therapy. But furthermore? Ches has only just now started removing her mother from a pedestal now that she has the woman’s diaries, and she’s slowly but surely, learning all her mother��s secrets from the woman herself.

Rebekah Carroll: Ches honestly has extremely strong feelings about Rebekah, and none of them are good. She hates the woman for trying to replace her mother, how she treated Cade growing up (Rebekah took the Parent Trap as a manual on how to handle children after a divorce, rather than a cautionary tale), and for trying to bond with her younger siblings whenever they arrive back home to the states. Probably the first perk Ches will list if someone asks her about ex-communication is never having to deal with Rebekah again, and she’s not sorry about it.

Julien Andrieux: [TW: CHILD DEATH] There is not a day that goes by that Ches doesn’t think of Julien Andrieux, the older brother she didn’t get nearly enough time with. She still remembers playing with him in the gardens of their update New York vacation home fondly. The day he died, and they broke the news to her, broke her. She still sees him in everything, the patter of rain on the windowpane, the moment the lights turn off in the movie theatre, the laughter hanging in the air. If she could give anything to talk to someone who was gone one last time, she wouldn’t pick Julia, but Julien.

Logan Elswood: [TW: COCAINE ADDICTION (and visual descriptions of it)] The person Ches has saved in her phone as dad, and honestly at this point, he might as well be her father. After her father shut down following their mother’s death, he was the one who stepped up to the plate, started skipping school left and right before he completely dropped out the minute he turned 16 to raise the Elswood children. Sure, he had some outside help from time to time, like their grandparents doing there best to step in all the way from France and Ches trying as hard as she could to fill her mother’s shoes despite the fact that she was only eight and should have never had that responsibility on her shoulders. Logan is the person she calls up the second she needs advice, or she just wants a shoulder to cry on for a bit. And she misses him dearly, to the point if she ever vanishes one day suddenly, it would be smart to assume she just hopped a plane to go back home and see her brothers. But he’s also one of the people who concerns her the most in the world. There was no hiding the white powder clinging to his nose, the constant nose bleeds, the way his hands would shake, growing up. And while he’s gone through rehab programs, and he swears left and right he’s clean now, and has been for years, Ches isn’t there, and she’s scared shitless that she won’t notice the signs this time if he relapses.

Jamie Elswood: [TW: CHEATING] To say Ches and Jamie have a complex relationship would be the understatement of the century. Jamie is an asshole, point blank, and while Jamie is actively trying to repair their relationship, Ches has absolutely no interest in it. How can she forgive her older brother for sleeping with someone she loved, her boyfriend, a person she had been considering marrying someday? She’ll give Jamie credit that he’s smart, after all, he did get into Yale law school and he’s been excelling at it, but that’s the nicest thing she has to say about him.

Cade Carroll: [TW: HEROIN ADDICTION] If there is just one lyric that sums up the dynamic between Ches and Cade, at least according to him, it’d be “I'm just the one that keeps you up at night, you love the most.” Ches always thought that “I'm not givin' up, givin' up, no, not yet; even when I'm down on my last breath, even when they say there's nothin' left” is more of the perfect summary for them though. At first, they weren’t exactly fond of one another - Ches could tell he’d destroy anyone if it meant ensuring his own success from the moment they met, and Cade dismissed her as yet another spoiled rich girl like the ones he attended primary school with. But they had one goal in common, to break up their parents, and in the process they realized the other party had way more redeeming qualities than they initially thought. At this point, Cade is Ches’s brother through and through, and she’d do anything for him and at this point she knows that she’s honestly the only person Cade wouldn’t destroy if she got in his way. She’s the one he calls at his lowest, when he needs a friend, when he has good news or bad news, and Ches is the one who will hop on a plane to pick up his pieces every time he goes through rehab again. Every single time he falls off, she’s right behind him trying to get him right back on the wagon, and despite the fact it’s become apparent pretty much everyone else in their life has given up on him because he doesn’t want to get better, Ches refuses to give up on him. She’ll be there, picking up his pieces when he falls, despite the fact it destroys her every time she has to see him in that state, because she loves him. And isn’t that what family is supposed to do?

Emmett Elswood: [TW: ALCOHOLISM, MENTAL HEALTH, SUCIDIAL THOUGHTS (it’s very subtle but I’d rather over tag)] If there is anyone in the world that Ches thinks actually gets her at her core, despite all the walls and facades she puts up, it’s Emmett. If there’s an easy way to describe them, it’s two sides of the same coin. It’s rare to see one without the other, and he followed her to Holy Cross - admittedly with a vacation home, rather than moving, but he visits often enough it might as well count. Even from a young age, before Ches started noticing the other Elswood children also had mental health issues from their traumas, Emmett was a kindred spirit. The bursts of rage that didn’t make sense in hindsight, the inability to sleep, those dark, pressing thoughts that scared both of them to the point it eventually lead desperate efforts to silence the whispers in their heads. The two have supported one another through every single up and down, to the point where it was debate whether or not Ches would be in his wedding party or his wife’s Camellia’s when the two got married last year. Ches doesn’t know what she’d do without him, and she’s pretty sure Emmett will never let her find out. (These two also have bonded over being the two children Edward cut off now but... I don’t want to get too into that here considering the tws it involves, and the fact I don’t think it’ll come up in character anytime soon.)

Jonah Elswood: Ches’s twin brother, and honestly the calmest person she knows. Unless there is a dog in the room, then he’s the most excitable man in the history of the universe. They were a lot closer when they younger, which isn’t to say that they aren’t close. But with him at Julliard, and her in Holy Cross, they really don’t get to see one another very often. He may be the only person Ches knows with a scrapbook of all the dogs he’s pet that the owners said he could take a pic of them, but she wouldn’t want another twin brother. He truly is the Thing One to her Thing Two, the first person she shares a new music piece with, and the person that no matter how long they’re apart or no matter how busy they get, she knows that no matter what, they will just fall right back where they’d left it.

Flynn Carroll: Honestly, Ches doesn’t have too much to say about Flynn other than the fact she loves him and she doesn’t talk to him very often. He’s back in London with his father now that he’s old enough to make his own choices, attending university and pursuing a professional gaming career while refusing all of Ches’s offers to come guest star on one of her livestreams as a small career booster. Not that she blames him, of course, so she tries to be a supportive older sister from afar - letting him do his own thing as she cheers him on.

Eiffel “Effie” Elswood: [TW: EATING DISORDERS, BRIEF SELF-HARM MENTION] If you asked Ches what her greatest accomplishment is, she'd likely cite her sisters. Effie, in particular, is a source of pride for her, and while Ches would never dream of picking a favorite, there is no denying the fact that Ches and Effie are extremely close. To the point that Ches calls the girl on zoom literally every day to talk to her and ask her all about how Switzerland is and how her senior year is going. It doesn’t matter the time, or what Ches is doing, she will answer her phone if Effie calls. Church service be damned. Effie’s probably the smartest person she knows, overall one of the best people she knows, and she’s pretty sure that Princeton would be willing to agree with her on that considering the girl got into their neuroscience program for next fall. That doesn’t say Efife doesn’t alarm Ches though, even in another country now Ches is extremely aware of the girl’s eating disorder and self-destuctive tendencies. And while she supports Effie in every single way she can, even paying for the girl’s therapy out of her Youtube ad revenue, she wishes the girl was closer so she could keep an eye on her.

Eloise “Ella” Elswood: Ches adores Ella, truly. There's a reason she makes sure she calls her youngest sister before bed, every single night, regardless of what she has to drop in order to do so - and she has without fail from the second boarding schools and distance became a factor in thier lives. But out of the two girls, the sister that makes her question her parenting skills the most is the youngest Elswood child. Sure, Ella isn't a bad child - not by a long shot, but she's seemed to pick up on Ches's impulsive streak and nothing terrifies her more in the universe than the girl falling into any of the trouble she fell into. Every time she does something reckless like walk back to campus alone at night is nearly enough to cause Ches's heart to stop beating in her chest for a few moments before the lectures start. Dramatics aside, however, despite the near daily terror Ella puts into Ches - she wouldn't trade her baby sister for the world. And every time Ella and Effie call her mom when they ask her for advice, well, she can’t imagine a day that will stop tugging on her heartstrings or stop turning her into a puddle.

(I really could get so in depth about all of these kids and their interpersonal relationships and everything but... considering this was me actually trying to keep it short.. if you ever want any additional info on the Elswoods as a whole feel free to dm me but the tl;dr is pretty much “the siblings are very close knit at this point (altho Jamie bashes heads with one or two of them), but they’re scattered all over because of college + boarding schools so Ches stays in touch with them over facetime and stuff at this point.”)

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supop · 3 years

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Daily Thoughts: BTS’s Current Musical Direction (Permission to Dance, GRAMMYs, and more) !!

Haven’t done one of these in a while. Where do I even start? Shall I spilt this post into sections? Yes? Okay, let’s go..! Note: slightly(?) long post incoming.

Before we start, it’s important to note that BTS’s recent releases doesn’t negate any of their previous masterpieces. I won’t even bother beating the same dead horse of an argument especially when nothing stops new and old listeners alike from checking out the rest of their discography (which is available on all music streaming platforms). Ironically enough, when BTS made “darker” songs, they were told it’s too “angsty”. Now that they’re making lighter songs they’re being told it’s too “childish”. They really can’t please everyone, so why even bother.

Butter Era

PTD, Butter, and Dynmaite are all Bangtan’s Trojan Horse. For the longest they’ve been painted as a group of kpop boys that only teen girls listen to. Now that they’re making music in a language most people can understand (yes, because English is the closet thing we have to a global language), it’s changing the narrative. I’ve already met several people who gave listened to the previously mentioned tracks and decided to take a deeper dive into Bangtan’s discography. Something they never would have done otherwise due to the “language barrier.” Not everyone is as open-minded about something they can’t understand. Language being a prime example. BTS are now playing a game with rules set by an industry that rarely takes nicely to anyone who isn’t a white Caucasian male. They’re playing the game, and despite the criticisms, they’re winning at it.

If you didn’t already know BTS have been #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 for the past 6 weeks (as of today, July 9th) thanks to their song: Butter. And in a few days that could potentially be 7 weeks in a row. Which is phenomenal, to say the least. For those who still don’t know, the BB Hot 100 is the music industry standard chart for the United States. So, for a South Korean group to be topping it not once, but multiple times is one for the history books. My theory is Butter was meant to TEST the waters once again after Dynamite’s breakout success. And yes, I know many aren’t a fan of Dynamite, but you can’t deny the astronomical impact it’s had on their careers.

In their last vlive the member’s also mentioned how they recorded both Butter and Permission to Dance (PTD) at the same time. Which means they already had in mind how their next two releases would roll out. However, just like the unexpected success of Dynamite, I doubt they thought Butter would do THIS well. Actually I don’t doubt, I know because they said it themselves (see the video at the end of this post). Of course, the reason for their multiple #1s is thanks to mass buying by fans. But don’t get it twisted, none of that negates the fact that #1 is still #1. If there was an issue with fans mass buying music to chart their faves, then that’s for Billboard to solve. It’s not to the fault of BTS or ARMY (really, don’t hate the player, hate the game). Also, at least artists actually profit from their music being bought. Streams and radio play on the other hand...not so much (but that’s another topic for another day).

Initial Reaction to ‘PTD’

This section will be brief. PTD was co-written by 6x-Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter, Ed Sheeran. I’m pretty sure this alone played a huge role in why they decided to release PTD after Butter. It makes a lot of noise as is, and the promotion speaks for itself.

Truthfully, I’m currently listening to PTD as I type this. Why? Because it’s a good song. Actually good. Not that I’m surprised. I like it. It’s a fun, light song that has a nice message behind it. And the sign language was a meaningful touch. Once again, the way the members hyped up its released during the vlive said as much. They themselves said they liked it better than Butter (and probably even Dynamite). I can’t help but agree with those sentiments.

‘PTD’ Concerns

Now then. While PTD is a good song, this definitely wasn’t what I was expecting from BTS. BTS which for a reason have a distinct rapline and vocal line. Speaking of BTS...do they even have a rapline anymore at this point? Hahaha kidding of course they do. As much as I loved rapline’s vocals in this song, could the writers not have written more sensible lines? After having my fill of the melody, I took a look at the lyrics and some of the lines make zero sense. Specifically sope’s part. Tbh the only solid lines are the pre-chorus, chorus, & verse 1. Side note: I wish songs specified who wrote which line so I could specifically drag them, but I digress.

Speaking of writers, I’m a little sad that none of the members contributed to the lyrics of this song in any way, shape or form. Think about it: if an artist has zero contribution to their music, does that still make it worthy of praise? (I’ll circle back to this question towards the end of this post). Because of this reason is why I’m glad this was a completely vocal song. I couldn’t imagine a dynamite 2.0 with rapline’s nonsense verses. And in terms of verses, let’s be honest and admit the line distribution is horrid. But again, PTD is a pop song written by 4 caucasians (no offense to Ed)...so we’re we really expecting them to whip up a pen game worthy of rapline? No, not at all.

GRAMMYs Play

BTS’ current era is clearly a play at the Grammys (if that wasn’t obvious). Thankfully though, their songs appear to be progressing in sound, rather than regressing (PTD > 🧈 > 🧨) in that order. So kudos to them. The main reason I say why it’s a Grammy play is thanks to our most vocal members on this topic (Yoongi and Namjoon) who have stated on several occasions, (and I paraphrase) that “BTS are working towards a Grammy”. Now, is it wrong for BTS to want a Grammy? No, quite the opposite I’d say. Ambition is sexy. What’s wrong with aiming high? What’s wrong with wanting to accomplish something great? Truthfully, I’ve always been inclined to stand by the philosophy, “by any means necessary; the end justifies the means.” So what if BTS are making English songs after they said they never would? People change. Circumstances change. Goals change. That’s what makes us human. I’m not going to sit hear and be bothered by it. Especially when the members themselves appear to be actively embracing this new era.

Again, do I blame them? No. Which passionate musician doesn’t want a Grammy? Name one. Exactly. Unfortunately, we live in an era where western validation still predominates globally. So until that changes, just like an Oscar is the most “prestigious” award in the field of film, a Grammy speaks for music. I don’t make the rules, sorry.

I just wish BTS would be a bit more, shall I say, “inconspicuous”? about things. Literally no other artist at their level is releasing music at the speed that they do. Not that that’s a bad thing! It’s not a crime for a musician to release songs, Okay? BUT when it comes to them it’s been very obvious and very telling what the purpose behind their English releases implies.

GRAMMYs Win

Do I want BTS to win a Grammy? Yes, yes, 10000x yes. Yes, so they can finally give some of their actions as of late a freaking rest. Yes, so they can finally feel more at ease when it comes to venturing into solo activities. Besides a Grammy, there’s literally nothing else BTS need to “check off” or “prove” when it comes to their music. They’ve topped the charts, they’ve sold out stadium tours, they’ve won every music award possible in their respective musical categories. A Grammy is practically the finish line at this point. And maybe they won’t give it a rest after winning a Grammy. There’s no saying that winning once won’t push them into wanting another. Accolades tend to to have that yearning effect on people: “We did it once, we can do it again.”

Am I saying BTS “deserve” a Grammy? No. There’s no such thing as “deserving” when it comes to events like these. Lots of talented musicians have been snubbed when it comes to the Grammys. Similarly to how lots of “mediocre” musicians have won. The whole process has always been entirely subjective. However, I will note how some people might say things like, “neither Butter nor PTD are Grammy-worthy.” Well, I beg to differ. If Rain on Me stood a chance, them so does Butter and PTD (which as I’ve previous stated are both much much better songs than Dynamite in every aspect).

Would it be more meaningful for them to receive a Grammy for one of their Korean songs? Maybe. But does it really matter? Not really. They obviously see it for what it is. A Grammy is a Grammy, no matter what. And I say this because no one actually cares what an artist received a Grammy for—the point is that they have one (and they can brag about it). ‘Grammy Award-Winning Artist, BTS’ does have an incredibly nice ring to it.

Musical Direction

What does BTS have up their sleeve next I wonder? Well for now I’m pretty sure their hoping PTD does just as good as Butter on the charts, if not better. Or at the very least, Yoongi does. Haha kidding we know he speaks for the whole group. That said, I’ve always appreciated his honesty. Candidness is one thing I admire about Yoongi. There’s no “shying away” from ambitious goals when it comes to him.

I like that BTS have always explored a diverse range of musical styles. They’re not boxed in by genre (yes, even if the last 3 English tracks makes you think otherwise). If you take a look at BTS’ entire discography (mixtapes included) you’ll come to realize that there really is something for everyone.

I don’t think BTS will be releasing any more singles after PTD. Well maybe a collab is up next??? But currently, I think they’re gearing up for a major album release. This year’s Grammy Awards deadline is September 30, 2021. That means we’re for sure getting the album before then. My best guess is they’ll let PTD ride out through July, then release the album in early August. That or we just might get the album towards the end of July. Who knows. You honestly never really know when it comes to them. In an ideal Bangtan world they’d be topping the charts until GRAMMYs voting is finalized. Will the upcoming album be in English?? I want to say NO (lol), but if it is, I would(n’t) be surprised. I highly doubt it would be, but again, when it comes to BTS you never know.

After Thoughts

I predict they’ll once again be submitting all their releases this year to as many Grammy categories as possible. The more the better truthfully. That includes Butter, PTD, the upcoming album, and maybeeee even BE. If BTS don’t win a Grammy this year, they’ll be devastated. That’s simply the truth of the matter. Like I said, I hope they do so we can see the group explore more of their art on an individual basis. OT7 is great, but sometimes it also feels like a cult like with how they force it down our throats, and how some ARMYs don’t like the members doing anything outside of the group. BTS aren’t a monolith. They’re 7 individuals who all have different personalities, dreams, goals, and aspirations. For now of course, I’m sure a Grammy is the first priority (for all of them). Teamwork makes the dream work, right? Once that’s been checked off, however, we just might see a different side of them.

Alsoooooo, wow this post is already long, but I wanted to talk about artist contribution (the point I said I’d circle back to). I don’t think it really matters that none of the members contributed to PTD because it’s not as if they’ve just been sitting on their asses their entire career. They’ve all contributed more than enough in one shape or form since their debut. A single song lacking that special Bangtan touch is nothing compared to their 230+ other tracks. They also have a few Koreans songs that none of the members are credited for, so why the uproar when it’s done in English?

I’ve already said this, and I’ll say it again: BTS are winning. At life. No one knows what goes on behind the scenes, but objectively, everyday they’re gaining in popularity, getting richer, and receiving more love/acknowledgement (hate too, but that comes with the job). They’re a force to be reckoned with, whether you like them or not. And yes, all these things are surface level/materialistic, but it’s important to keep in mind none of the members are being held against their will. They all willingly re-signed a 7-year contract, and appear to be in this Bangtan Sh*t For Life. I’m sure they view this point in their career as a new experience, and are taking full advantage of the many opportunities coming their way.

To close off, keep in mind these are just my thoughts. You’re more than welcome to have differentiating opinions on any of the topics I touched on, and I won’t hold it against you.

Not proofread, so if you see any typos, ignore it.

BTS’ thoughts on Butter’s Success (abridged)

“It’s pointless to argue or fight about it. Frankly, I can’t understand people who want to put down a certain type of music, whatever that might be. Classical music was pop music in its own age. It’s a matter of taste and understanding—there’s no good or bad, there’s no highbrow or lowbrow.” — SUGA, 2018.

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hawkinsschoolcounselor · 3 years

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Not rly st related, well maybe? 4th of July , but why are US-citizens so in love with their country? They even call themselves Americans when their nation is just one part of the continent, lol. If I were as obsessed with my country people would call me crazy. Oh and my granny is German and I know that many Germans are still scared to even wave their flag cos of past events, and the US isn't rly a nation of peace either. pls dont get me wrong, Im just curious and dont know any US people irl xD

I'm not going to pretend I'm an expert on the matter, but I do have something of an interest in history.

I think the patriotic spirit of Americans is as much a practical matter as it is a symbolic one. In the early Colonial days, citizens were more likely to identify themselves by their colony (i.e. Pennsylvanian or Virginian). They were also still British citizens at the time, and, even during the Revolution, many still stayed loyal to the king. Creating a sense of patriotism and a unified front would be crucial in presenting a realistic challenge to the British Empire. One of the rally flags of the Revolution was the Join or Die flag. It was not a threat, but a warning. We had to band together to stand a chance.

(For non-Americans, the colonies, as depicted from left to right, are South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, and New England.)

It may seem weird to think about it now, but my country was very much the underdog in any conflicts until the early 20th century. Defeats came often, and were, at times, devastating. War support would be extremely difficult if not for the sense that we were one people with something to defend. It's Tribalism, for good or ill. It's the same phenomena that results in sports fans going crazy when their team loses (or wins!) or makes people jump up to defend family members they may not even like. Everyone wants to "belong" to something, and, here in America, we created a sense of belonging to a country.

I'll admit that the American sense of patriotism came as a result of the cultivation of an "us vs them" attitude. The easiest way to get even a more modest US citizen to start waving a flag is for a foreign individual or state to insult our nation or culture.

The love of country still has a pragmatic component today, though. We have always been a nation of mixed cultures and ethnicities (even though some of them had no say in the matter), but that is true even more so today. Having a strong national identity and pride helps bring these different cultures together. While we still have no shortage of backwards, bigoted people, most of us welcome new additions to our culture.

Sadly, this concept of a unifying identity has been repeatedly challenged. One group or another would be deemed as "Un-American" or inferior, often by the more conservative among us. I imagine America's history of racial abuse and discrimination is known outside of my country. There's also the horrible crimes committed against the Native Americans and the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War 2. Socialists, or, indeed, any simply suspected of socialist sympathies, were often persecuted during the Cold War. The new millennium saw rising hostilities against Arab-Americans. This too also contributed to the American sense of patriotism, as these groups would sometimes go to great lengths to express that their political opinions or cultural backgrounds didn't diminish their love of country.

When it comes down to it, though, our patriotism and Fourth of July celebrations draws on that original underdog element. While I doubt anyone would call America the underdog anymore, we were still a country that probably never should have existed. By all rights, we had no business defeating the British in the Revolution. We somehow repelled a British invasion in 1812 (that we provoked, but still). The Union struggled massively early on in the Civil War in 1861 and came pretty close to having to deal with the British allying with the rebellious Confederacy. We are proud to be Americans for, if nothing else, simply managing to have the chance to be Americans.

We have no shortage of sin. Anyone who says otherwise is nationalistic, not patriotic. One of our greatest cultural values is the freedom to criticize our government, but the more extreme of us tend to forget that. Our military and political power also tends to result in being too willing to get into conflicts, often without a plan as to how to get out. We can often now be the snobs looking down our noses at the rest of the world. We're the ones fighting against the underdogs, at times suffering humiliating defeats. I personally feel we need to be humbled, at times, though.

Being such a diverse culture also means that sometimes the "wrong people" get power. Internal strife can become great, as disagreements as to how to run the country escalate and permeate every corner of the country. It often brings family member against family member, neighbor against neighbor, colleague against colleague, friend against friend. These celebrations are also a means to remind us, when things cool down, that we are still one.

At the end of the day, the same values and freedoms that we celebrate with our patriotism bring about the need for the patriotism. It's something of an oddly paradoxical cycle. Without the unifying sense of being of one country, the freedom to dissent, the freedom to express your religion or culture, and the freedom to express your individuality could all result in America and its culture breaking apart into separate entities. Oddly enough, it's these freedoms that ultimately bind us together, even if we each secretly feel that our neighbors are morons who have it all wrong.

As for why we call ourselves Americans, well, we simply don't have better options. The official name of the country is the United States of America. We wouldn't call ourselves United Staters, as that part of the country simply indicates that we're comprised of (currently 50) partially autonomous states. We'd more likely go back to calling ourselves by our individual states. For example, I'd identity myself as a Pennsylvanian. As far as I'm aware, people don't celebrate their individual state quite as much, with possibly the exception of Texans. The America part is the common element that binds us, so we become Americans.

I have heard of the German reluctance to express a sense of national pride like we do here. I can certainly understand that reluctance after what happened with the Holocaust. I think it's important to remember where you were. I fear my country sometimes tries to ignore the darker parts of our own history. I think our patriotic spirit remains because we like to believe we've grown past those events. In some ways we have, but I fear we often look the other way when it comes to remnants of those events. I admire Germany's refusal to forget what's happened, though I do think you might be punishing yourselves a bit too much.

For the record, I think we often overdo it with the patriotism. I don't agree, for example, with having kids recite the Pledge of Allegiance in school. I'm not sure how seriously most parents or kids take it anymore, though. It's mostly just become routine by now. I also don't buy into the whole "America First" garbage. Yes, our government has a responsibility to look out for our interests, but it shouldn't come at the expense of the needs and well-being of other countries.

I hope this somewhat answers your questions. I imagine I may have some errors with my facts or interpretations. Like I said, I'm no historian. This is simply my understanding of the matter.

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theravenclawrevolutionary · 3 years

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A couple weeks ago you mentioned in a post that most of what's known about Robespierre is propaganda, could you elaborate on that?

Of course Anon! I’m always glad to talk about anything pertaining to the Frev! I’m not sure how much you already know about the French revolution, but I know other people will read this so hold on, 'cause it’s about to get long and in-depth as hell!

Also: Just a reminder that I don’t have a degree in history or anything. I simply spend a majority of my free time looking up information cause I’m a nerd like that. And of course, my statement about Robespierre could be applied with different levels of accuracy to other historical figures at the time, including the monarchy. This is just how it applies to Maxime as requested. Any questions about any other aspects of the French Revolution are always welcome. I'll try to answer then as clearly, accurately, and respectfully as possible.

A majority of information commonly spread about Robespierre is that he was a vicious and cruel leader with no regard for anyone but himself. Supposedly, he was so obsessed with the ideas of perfection and ‘virtue’ that he lost any human emotion, rendering him cold, friendless, and willing to sacrifice anything or anyone to get his way. In fact, when I first was introduced to him and the French Revolution in school several years ago, I was under the impression that he personally was responsible for a majority of deaths that occurred during the revolution. That’s what caused me to first look into him. Morbid stuff has always interested me and I wanted to know all about the vicious relentless killer who had no regard for human life and wanted to purge France of anyone who lacked the necessary virtues of his twisted moral code.

As I began to research I realized the picture of Robespierre painted for me by the flawed American education system, the modern media, and a surprising amount of books summarizing the history of the world was incredibly skewed, usually in favor of the ‘poor monarchy’ who were ‘thrust into an impossible position and didn’t mean for anything to happen’.

In reality, Robespierre was, despite remaining a flawed individual like the rest of us, a quiet well dressed, polite man who was loyal to his friends, cared deeply about his family, wanted to reform the country in favor of the common people, and fought for what he believed in. Maxime had social anxiety and loved animals especially birds and dogs. Oftentimes he left his glasses places and couldn’t remember where he put them. He once wrote a poem about how much he loved tarts. Things made him angry, happy, and scared. The man who played such a crucial part in the revolution was still the same person as the young man who cried when his youngest sister Henriette died at age seventeen and the man who was praised as being a bright student at Louis-le-Grand. He advocated for women’s rights to an education, supported the rights of Jews in France (who were an unrepresented minority at the time), proposed laws in an attempt to decrease unnecessary violence (which he hated along with the war against Austria, the dechristianization of France, and the dangerous mob mentality). Maximilien Robespierre was an actual person who actually felt things like the rest of us. He was no heartless monster who preyed on innocent Frenchmen for no reason.

Now it’s time to point out the wrongs he committed. It can never be a fair judge of someone’s character, living or dead, without taking into account the bad things they have done. Robespierre did vote in favor of Louis XVI’s execution, mistakenly believing that France would benefit from the king’s death. After Capet’s execution violence spiraled out of control, resulting in a period of death known as The Reign of Terror. He also didn’t do as much as he should have to oust revolutionaries with dangerous tendencies and a penchant to condone mob violence. One of his biggest faults was his habit of compromising when he should have stood his ground and standing his ground when compromising would be the better option. His signature can be found on the arrest warrant sent out for the Dantonists, including his friend (to some degree) Georges Danton and childhood friend Camille Desmoulins, who eventually would go on to be executed.

Now the question is, how did a usually quiet, reserved individual become known as a bloodthirsty cult leader? The answer is, of course, Thermidorian Propaganda. For those of you that don’t know what that means, allow me to explain.

Thermidor was the name of the fifth month on the revolutionary calendar (which was implemented in 1793 and used in France through 1805 ) that spanned from July 19th to August 17th on the Gregorian Calendar. At the beginning of Thermidor Maximilien was to make a speech to the National Convention speaking about but refusing to then name of several members who were corrupt or had committed crimes against the revolution and defending his own part in trying to find them. (Actually, I believe he straight-up named three people, but I don’t remember their names so it’s not important.) Convention members who feared exposure by the speech conspired together to overthrow Robespierre, who was seen as the figurehead of the revolution, (similarly to how the president represents the United States as a whole) and save their reputations. Robespierre and those still loyal to him fled to the Hotel de Ville, were captured by the National Guard, and were sentenced to death via guillotine all within the span of a few days. Those who accused and condemned him have come to be known as Thermidorians and the event itself known as the Thermidorian Reaction.

In order to preserve their reputations, the Thermidorians began criminalizing Robespierre and using him as a scapegoat for crimes committed (and not committed at all) by different people during the revolution. As the common saying goes, “History is written by the winners.” Because they succeeded in their plot against the Robespierrists and frightened anyone who wished to stand up and support their own Robespierrist views, the Thermidorians were able to control the narrative and the light in which Robespierre is presented. As his rivals/enemies they wanted themselves to seem obviously correct and Robespierre to seem clearly in the wrong. Things were not so black and white, so they fudged the information a little to help their cause.

As a result our picture of Robespierre is very different from the actual man. I'd like to say that he did both helpful and problematic things over the course of his time in the spotlight. He was a human, simple as that. It isn't right to demonize him and completely butcher his true self the way the Thermidorians and many historians since have done, but in the same breath we also have to remember all the awful things he allowed and was a part of.

Sorry it got so long, but I hoped I cleared things up for you Anon. If you have more questions, please hit me up!

~Dara

#french revolution #frev #robespierre #maximilien robespierre #history facts #factual

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that-soccer-guru · 3 years

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Everyone I stan ends up getting cancelled. Used to love Julie, obsessed with Kelley, and Lindsey was one of my favourite players. But they all let me down. I swear to god if Sonnett or Sam or Kristie end up starting tomorrow and if any of those three stand, I'm literally just gonna start stanning myself because those three are my only hope. They're the last few of my favourites that haven't been problematic yet (10 year old dug up tweets don't count)

Here's the truth bud, they're all going to disappoint you at some point.

Don't get me wrong, I like players and I think their off the pitch personalities are entertaining and stuff. But I've tried to remind myself everytime that they're people too, with failings and who will probably do something I disagree with, or something deeply problematic that I'll have to stop supporting them over. AND! It's okay to only like them for what they do professionally, after all it's not like we actually know them as people. I still think Julie Ertz is a good soccer player, I still think overcoming injuries and playing high level is KO's best skill, I still think Lindsey Horan has the potential to be the best playmaker in the United States, but I refuse to buy their merch, follow them outside the pitch or give a crap about whatever they do once those 90min are over because they're entitled white women who need to get their heads on right (I also wouldn't hate for them to get benched for a while with a stack of history books and stuff but I digress)

I'll defend players who are doing their best to be better on the field and who are even trying to be better people, I'll even cheer on the players who ARE doing their best to be better, to be leaders, and to do what they can to make the world better, but it'll never be to the limit where I don't expect them to disappoint bc that's just not realistic.

It's okay to look up to them for what they've overcome or what they stand for (when it's good), just don't let it get so bad that when they disappoint it sucks more than it should, hmm?

So, stan yourself bud. I'm sure you're AWESOME and deserve to have all the hype you give to these players. And the best part? you know you as people, you can correct yourself and be better everyday and that deserves some stanning. GO OUT THERE AND GIVE YOURSELF SOME LOVE TOO! (And drink water damn it, we're on a healthy kick, hydrate or diedrate)

#trust me anon. stan yourself. be your biggest fan. it'll be better in the long run #I FOR ONE DONT KNOW WHO YOU ARE BUT I BELIEVE IN YOU. YOU'RE AWESOME. KEEP BEING AWESOME.#and drink water brah #that's just a good life note #woso #uswnt #thanks anon #anon asks #answering asks #sonnett side up answers

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kirstinmaldonado · 4 years

Text

CHAPTER TWELVE 2.0

I started the last two chapters, happy to have something of substance to talk about, me being at home, improvements I was seeing, maybe even some rightful disappointment at some people’s lack of care in their actions…but like clockwork the beginning of the week brought in new developments and my mind drifted focus. My fingers lost the spark to write about feel-good situations when the chaos in the world seemed to extinguish the flame.

I was in Texas just two weeks ago but it honestly feels like forever, as if time is confused on what pace its on. The USA seems to be confused as well.

Theme parks across the nation are opening up. Some flights are back to full capacity. The world seems caught on a pendulum of thought: “Are we good enough to pretend and pass like we can go back to normal?”

Meanwhile, people are still getting sick. People are still dying. Protests are still happening, although it apparently doesn’t serve the media to still be airing that. Justice has still not been served for those we’ve lost: Breonna Taylor, Vanessa Guillen, Elijah McClain, and so many more. The media and internet is ablaze with people ridiculing, attacking, or making fun of each other, on top of everything going on.

I wonder if I’m a part of that sometimes. While I still think protesting for “bar lives” is unfathomable and tone deaf, while it was so easy to ridicule because it was so insanely insensitive to compare to the BLM movement, did I help to further a narrative full of spite? Did I egg on anger and divisiveness, did I unintentionally help create arguments online? Did I give a platform that I don’t agree with more attention by calling attention to it?

I’m all for the hard but important conversations. I love them, to be honest. My family and I had many thought-provoking conversations when I was home, about what they’ve experienced with racism, about our opinions on all sides. It was wonderful to expand our ways of thinking using past and present! I think we all walked away with more rounded backing to our opinions, me included, and I’m thankful to have a family that can be so open and willing to discuss.

Yet, those conversations can’t be condensed into however many characters can fit in to a tweet. The art of negotiating is not all about winning, it’s also about empathizing. It’s about explaining and getting the opponent to understand your side and school of thinking; if you just tear them apart for their lack of understanding or different opinion, how can they ever fully understand or want to, especially if you are the one trying to teach them something not in their wheelhouse?

Racism, of course, is non-negotiable.

Everything else, and it’s a lot, that we have encountered in the last few weeks (mainly dealing with COVID) feels like it’s cumulatively driven us to a breaking point, to a point where I don’t really feel like I live in the “United” States of America. I feel like we are now all pitted against each other, immediate to defend our point, and jumping to 10 because honestly we are tired of the bullshit.

I get it. I do. But in the last few days while I’ve watched coronavirus cases develop, “Karens” making a fool of themselves in public places and endangering people’s lives with their sense of entitlement, while watching Hamilton for the first time and seeing good and bad critiques, Kanye running for president, while I’ve cried over Vanessa and what happened to her only to have someone try to belittle my reaction compared to others we’ve lost, I realized something.

Chaos. All chaos.

How can we make real change when we are all just screaming? How can we move mountains when we are pushing from two opposing sides? And while we have made progress, will we have the sensibility to keep with it or will our boiling frustrations overrule and distract us from our end goal, lasting and transformative change for the betterment of BIPOCs and everyone?

I’m not hating on our progress. And I’m not vilifying people’s reactions to things not in your school of thought, albeit insanely frustrating things. I’ve been there and am there. The amount of Facebook posts I’ve written novels for, the shock I feel on a daily basis for some people, is all still there. Yet, my sadness for this world and how to heal it has crept in and bated me.

What can “I” do to make a difference?

Hating and bashing things is our new normal, our humor has become intertwined with it so much that we ridicule and make jokes out of everything. Click-bait headlines only stoke the flames. Coronavirus is still surging every day, and you know what, some people can’t pretend to go back to “normal” amongst it all.

The entertainment business, for example, won’t be back up and running for… who knows? I wouldn’t be surprised if Broadway was closed for longer than a year. We rescheduled our tour in hopes that we would be able to go, but with the way things are looking I can’t help but feel distressed about the outlook for the entertainment industry/shows all around. So many people’s “normal” won’t come back at all until we get a headway on this virus, and it’s gonna take us all coming together for that to work as well. We have to truly be THE UNITED states of america.

As a side-note, Pentatonix has never been this stationary since we started…and that’s bittersweet too. Never take anything for granted, guys.

So while I dissolved into a puddle over Vanessa and how I don’t even know how to help mediate the world anymore, with people at each others throats literally and figuratively all the time, with good people and bad people on every side, I returned to a very old school of thought for myself.

Be kind.

What can “I” do every day?

Yes, use my platform as a strong voice of advocacy, try to filter through everything to make sure I’m posting facts and not scare-mongering or leading anyone astray from what they should be seeing.

I’ve protested. Signed petitions. Written emails. I tried to raise awareness and bring everyone along with me on my journey as I learned, which I thought was helpful.

But I forgot about the most important thing, the thing that’s been ingrained in my head since I was a child for better for worse, the one thing that even though practiced vehemently, never always comes back guaranteed.

Be kind.

I lost that somewhere along the way, a bit. I could feel my soul hardening at how cruel some people can be, I felt how easy it was to smite and bash people’s names who have done far worse. I felt my eyes cloud with hate.

For a long time I thought the battle was human vs earth and I was always so sad to see how easily we destroyed such a precious gift.

Now I know at its core that the real problem is human vs human: how to one up each other, how to be more successful, how to win, how to be MORE all the time. That feeling has been slowly poisoning us and our empathy and compassion towards others. That feeling is not about bettering oneself, it’s about greed and it spreads like cancer.

For a long time, I didn’t want to “be kind” like a Disney princess anymore. I was tired of trying to use kindness as a shield as if people’s actions did not hurt me. I was mad at my kindness for blinding me and letting me get hurt. I thought the phrase “kill them with kindness” was stupid, because I was the one that kept getting hurt.

But my kindness did not do that to me. I did not do that to me.

People did. Hurt people. Confused people. People that had problems within themselves that were in no way a reflection of me. People with opposing views. Those people are not my fault. Those people don’t get to have their anger bleed in to my life, they don’t get to poison my disposition with their greed and animosity.

What can I do?

Every day, I can make a point to not be divisive. To not so easily make fun of things, belittle, call names, etc.

I can tone down my “complaining” online. I can not get so upset and rush to attack people that would be hard to get my point across to anyway online, so I don’t work myself up for hours about one internet troll when I could be doing other more important things. Why lose sanity over someone only wanting to argue? Why revert to the name bashing, why invite more stress and anger in to my life, even though there’s enough anyway with what’s going on in the world?

As I uncovered more history, had more awakenings and understandings, and dealt with my own personal stresses, I felt my strength oscillating and now I know why. I was so hardened with hate and disbelief, I felt like a fool living in a world that said it was something else. And...I left my best ally behind in my own rush for MORE.

Kindness.

Empathy. Understanding. Patience.

So for July, I’ve decided to take care of myself a little more. Take care of others. Make sure that I am not contributing to anyone’s pain, and only being an ally to amplify voices that need to be heard.

There’s a kinder way to say everything. There’s a kinder way to live. Amongst all this chaos, maybe if we were all a bit kinder, we could ease the waves of tension and calm the storm. Maybe if we could see past ourselves, we could make a lasting change for us all.

I changed my bio the other day. We must be like the sunflowers, pulling toxicity from the ground and air. Nature’s helper. I said I would be like that.

They don’t contribute anything negative, they just stand tall and strong, a mediating force in a world that needs purifying.

So, I will armor myself with my strength, knowledge, and kindness.

And see about tomorrow.

#blog 2.0

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mithaai · 3 years

Text

20 questions tag !

tagged by: @jaanoo thank u rao jaan i loved reading urs!!! tagging: @bwaldorf @literateleah @bamyan @juniesgf @mehendi hope u all don't mind the tag (no pressure at all) but i think u all r Super Cool and i'd love to see your answers!!

➳ what do you prefer to be called name-wise? just neha is fine!

➳ when is your birthday? july 13th i'm a cancer whatever that means

➳ where do you live? the unites shitstates of america :)

➳ three things you’re doing right now? answering these questions, totally ignoring my art history notes that i should be taking rn & sipping on a iced pumpkin spice latte

➳ four fandoms that have piqued your interest right now? i literally cannot do fandom shit ever again methinks but rn my four top interests are video essays, reading (esp more diverse lit & nonfiction), girl groups music, and uhhh i wanna start learning embroidery?

➳ how is the pandemic treating you? it's one of those could be better, could be worse type of things... one thing i can say for sure is i've grown up a lot during it. i mean i was 16 when it started and now i'm 18 so u can just imagine lol.

➳ song you can’t stop listening to right now? elam by run river north (or rlly all of their songs), also main hoon saath tere by arijit singh <333

➳ recommend a movie dil chahta hai ... that movie is a whole experience !!! such good coming-of-age film and has good songs too

➳ how old are you? eighteen wtf how am i an adult already

➳ school, university, occupation, other? i'm in my first year of uni/college! potential major is graphic design

➳ do you prefer hot or cold? cold pls i'm dying in the heat rn

➳ name one fact others may not know about you. i write with my left hand but do everything else with my right

➳ are you shy? yes very!!!! when everyone i'm with is shy, though, sometimes i'll try to make an extra effort bc it gets too awkward lol

➳ do you have any preferred pronouns? she/her

➳any pet peeves? ppl who r shitty<3 i can't name any on the spot but i have a bunch lol

➳ what’s your favourite “dere” type? none, idk the types sorry

➳ rate your life 1-10. 6ish, definitely not living my best life but am working towards it!

➳ what’s your main blog? this one !

➳ list your side blogs and what they’re used for. @dramachive for kdramas, @moondesk my studyblr, @jaleby for references and such. that's it but i'd like to start a writeblr in the future mayhaps

➳ is there anything you think people need to know about you before becoming friends with you? i'm sorry i'm the literal worst at keeping in touch and replying to messages etc and that probably makes it rly tough to be friends with me... i'm rly sorry i just have literal pea brain :(( if u don't mind that then pls i'd love to be friends

#neha.tag

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wrestlingisfake · 3 years

Text

Resurgence preview

It's been a year now since New Japan launched their US-based show, NJPW Strong. I'm sure the original plans involved running US tours with a mix of American regulars and visiting stars from the main Japanese roster. The pandemic, however, limited the scope of Strong, mainly featuring minor leagues on a closed set. It almost felt like a parallel universe with little relationship to the "real" NJPW. Now, finally, the brand gets to do a show in front of an actual crowd, and we get to see this concept the way it was meant to be seen.

The show airs live on NJPWworld (999 yen for one month--about $9.12 US) at 11pm EDT. Or, if you just cannot handle setting up your payment on a Japanese website, you can get the show on FITE.tv for $19.99 US. Both services should make the show available on-demand later, in case you want to wait until you're done watching Triplemania.

Lance Archer vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi - Archer is defending the IWGP United States champioship. The title was in limbo through most of 2020, as Jon Moxley was unable to schedule a defense in either New Japan or AEW. That changed in 2021, as thawing relations between the two promotions led to more Moxley title matches, until he lost the belt to Archer on July 21. Shortly before Archer's first defense on July 28, AEW aired a video of Tanahashi challenging the winner of that match.

This is Tana's first show outside of Japan since the pandemic began, and his first match in California in nearly three years. I'm not sure anyone expected him to be here, given that the New Japan of America operation has focused on building up North American talent rather than bringing in big stars from the home promotion. So this is a special treat for the live audience, above and beyond Archer coming in from AEW.

I expect a pretty straightforward match with Archer killing Tana with big power moves and Tana rallying for a big babyface comeback. In a vacuum I would think either man could end up with the belt. However, the real story to this match is that Tanahashi went out of his way to make a challenge for the US title, but not until after Jon Moxley lost it. So Moxley has accused Tana of ducking him, and it stands to reason that he'll confront the winner of this match to close the show. That feels like a formula for Tana vs. Mox for the title, maaaybe at the AEW pay-per-view on September 5. Everyone sure seems to hope that's where we're headed, so I don't think a lot of people will be pulling for Archer tonight.

Jay White vs. David Finlay - This is White's first defense of the NEVER openweight championship. It's also his first New Japan match since May, as the quarantine procedures for entering Japan have made travel pretty rough for the non-Japanese talent. As I recall, Finlay received this title shot because he pinned White back in March. Finlay hasn't been back in Japan since that tour. Both of these guys have been in Impact Wrestling as of late.

Originally, the idea behind White winning the NEVER title was to set up a match with Hiroshi Tanahashi at one of the Wrestle Grand Slam stadium shows that New Japan scheduled this summer. The aforementioned travel problems seem to have scuttled that, so now White is facing The Other Guy From FinJuice.

The biggest buzz I've heard surrounding this match is that Finlay appeared on Wrestling Observer Live to promote the show and ended up giving fans the impression that he wanted to go to NXT. I mean, Finlay could be fucking with us on that. But it's not a good sign when people are mainly interested in a match because they're looking for signs that one of the participants is fixing to leave the promotion. Not that it affects the finish, of course--Finlay could sign with NJPW for a million years, and he still wouldn't be booked to beat White for a title in 2021.

Tomohiro Ishii vs. Moose - This match kind of came out of nowhere. Ishii isn't exactly a top guy in New Japan but he's always right below that level, clobbering most of the roster and getting clobbered to set up new contenders. Most of the NJPW Strong roster would be underdogs against him. But then, Moose isn't on the Strong roster--he's coming over from Impact, where he's been pushed as a top heel for months. Moose is a 6-foot-5 big mean guy and Ishii is a 5-foot-7 big mean guy, so this should be an interesting contrast. It's easily the most interesting match on the show.

I'd like to see Moose win, since it'd be a slight upset and he could use the momentum for whatever he's doing next. But if he is gonna win, Ishii is going to convince you that he had to work his ass off to earn it. I'm looking forward to this.

Tom Lawlor & JR Kratos & Danny Limelight & Jorel Nelson & Royce Isaacs vs. Lio Rush & Chris Dickinson & Adrian Quest & Fred Yehi & Yuya Uemura - Lawlor is the NJPW Strong champion and his team is the New Japan version of "Team Filthy." The babyface team originally featured Brody King, but he was pulled from the card at the last minute due to "unforeseen circumstances", so Adrian Quest is substituting for him. That's a real tough break for the good guys.

There are several storylines at play here. Lio Rush stepped up as the next challenger for Lawlor's title, and they'll have that match at the August 16 tapings. Dickinson was kicked out of Team Filthy, and is currently aligned with Brody King's Violence Unlimited stable. Uemura had been working on the Japan roster as a Young Lion, but he's just begun his excursion so he has a chance to really express himself as a performer.

If Rush wasn't already positioned as Lawlor's next challenger, I might think this match could end with someone pinning Lawlor. As it is, though, it probably makes more sense for Team Filthy to win in a dominant fashion. Yehi and Quest are basically undercard scrubs, and Uemura just now graduated to that position. Rush and Dickinson aren't going to be able to carry so many weak links.

Juice Robinson vs. Hikuleo - Juice has spent most of 2021 teaming with David Finlay over on Impact, whereas Hikuleo has been wrestling on Strong and more recently on a few AEW shows. Given that Hikuleo is 6-foot-8 you'd expect him to squash everything in his path, but New Japan isn't afraid to have more established stars get the better of him. Whether Juice is one of those more established stars remains to be seen.

Juice biggest career highlight was winning the IWGP US title, and Hikuleo's was challenging for that title a few weeks ago. If one of them is going to be in the hunt for that belt, then winning this match should be step one. As much as I'd like to see Juice back in the chase, I get the feeling it'll be Hikuleo taking that role.

Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows vs. Jon Moxley & X - The Good Brothers (Gallows and Anderson) are the Impact Wrestling men's tag team champions, but their title is not at stake here. I think Moxley was originally booked to team with Syota Umino on this show, but travel restrictions prevented Umino from coming into LA. One way or another, Moxley will have a mystery partner that won't be revealed until the match begins.

The backstory is that Gallows and Anderson have been a thorn in Moxley's side every time he's tried to fight Kenny Omega, or really anybody in Omega's stable. With that in mind, the most logical partner would be Sami Callihan, who has a history with Moxley and unfinished business with Omega's group. People have been asking for a Moxley-Callihan reunion from the minute AEW and Impact started collaborating, and there's no reason it can't happen here. On the other hand, I wonder if that's something New Japan would do as a surprise, as opposed to advertising it ahead of time.

If Moxley's partner isn't Callihan, there's a serious risk that the live crowd will start chanting for Callihan and disrupt the match. So if they're going with someone else, it'd better be good. I suppose Eddie Kingston would be accepted, although again, why would that be something you do as a surprise? Personally, I'm all about Moxley and the cold, deadly eyes of Shooter Umino, so I know I'll be disappointed no matter what. :(

Anyway, it'd be stupid for Moxley's team to lose this match.

Rocky Romero & Fred Rosser & Wheeler Yuta vs. TJP & Clark Connors & Ren Narita - This is a pretty good sampling of the NJPW Strong midcard. Of this group, Romero has the most clout with the main New Japan roster. Rosser is still best known as WWE's Darren Young, the guy from the Nexus who looks exactly like John Cena. Yuta has been making waves on AEW, filling in for Trent Beretta with Orange Cassidy's group, so I guess he and Rocky are both Best Friends Twice Removed or something. TJP is a former WWE cruiserweight champion and Impact X division champion. Connors is one of the guys from the Gekiochi-kun ads--I think he's the one who snaps his fingers to teleport everybody. Ren Narita is the guy who used to wrestle Syota Umino all the time, but Syota is not on this show. :(

Alex Coughlin vs. Karl Fredericks - When Strong started, Coughlin, Fredericks, and Clark Connors were the three Young Lions from the LA Dojo who worked as prelim guys. Since then I believe Connors and Fredericks have "graduated," and Coughlin is still working on it. I'm pretty sure Fredericks is the one in the Gekiochi-kun ads that says "that's pretty cool." I don't remember what Coughlin does in those ads, so clearly he needs to get his ass in gear. Anyway, I guess Fredericks wins.

Bateman & Mysterioso & Barrett Brown vs. The DKC & Kevin Knight & Jordan Clearwater - This is scheduled as a dark match 30 minutes before the live stream begins. I've heard most of these names, but the only one I kinda know is Bateman from whatever goofy stable he's in at Ring of Honor. I dunno, I guess his side wins.

#njpw #njpw strong #njpw of america #resurgence #lance archer #hiroshi tanahashi #jay white #david finlay #jon moxley

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underthewingsofthblackeagle · 4 years

Photo

“Berliner Fernsehturm” * Foto: BernardoUPloud

After her marriage with Frank Randall has failed and Claire Beauchamp flees from her violent husband, she finds refuge in the house of the Fraser/Murray family in Berlin-Wilhelmshorst. But then tensions arise between Britain (which has since left the EU) and some EU member states. All holders of an English passport are required to leave EU territory within six weeks … and suddenly Claire’s fate looks more uncertain than ever.

This story was written for the #14DaysofOutlander event, hosted by @scotsmanandsassenach

Chapter 9: 14 Men (5)

After she sat down and Jamie poured everyone a glass of water, Ferdinand Groide began:

"Mrs. Beauchamp, Jamie, Mr. Fraser, told me that your husband is Dr. Frank Randall. Is that correct?"

(...)

"As you may also know, I have left my husband. Our marriage had been on paper only for several years. I intend to ask for a divorce, if that's possible from here. But I still have to care about this man's life. I'm a doctor, I took an oath. If I reveal the secrets I have learned... what will you do to him?"

"What do you mean? What are we going to do with him?"

"Will you hurt him? I mean, will you let someone hurt him?"

Ferdinand Groide and Jamie looked at each other in amazement.

"Mrs. Beauchamp, we're not the Mafia. We don't hire hit men."

"But you're in Intelligence, Mr. Groide."

Claire said that sentence with the same calm and objectivity as if she was saying to Jenny:

"If you put one more egg in the batter, it gets better."

"And intelligence agencies do these things," she added to her statement with the same objectivity.

"Well, maybe the CIA or the KGB. Let me answer you this way: In my opinion, a living Frank Randall is far more interesting and valuable to a secret service than a dead Frank Randall."

"In other words, you guarantee me that the information I give you will not endanger his life."

Groide and Jamie looked at each other again.

"Promise me."

It wasn't a question, it wasn't a request, it was a demand, and the words Claire used to make that demand left none of the men unaware that there was no alternative to this bargain for them.

Groide struck the hand Claire held out to him.

"You have my word, Mrs. Beauchamp. You don't know me yet and you probably mistrust me. That's only natural. But Jamie, Mr. Fraser, can assure you that I'm a man of my word."

Claire looked over at Jamie. He nodded.

"Done."

She reached for the glass of water that Jamie had put in her hand and emptied it in one gulp.

Then she began to talk.

"Microphone" by Florian-Media

"It was in the year 2015, in late November 2015 to be exact."

"Excuse me, Mrs. Beauchamp," Groide objected, "but we ought to do this properly."

He removed from his briefcase a device whose rectangular clunkness was reminiscent of an early mobile phone. After placing it in the center of the table, he inserted two small, round microphones attached to longer cables, one pointing at Claire and one pointing at himself. Groide pressed the record button, then he gave the date, time, place, names of those present and, as the reason for the recording, ‘Statement by Dr. Claire Elisabeth Beauchamp’.

Jamie had to smile. Ferdinand was a friendly person, but he was also a German bureaucrat. Everything had to follow the specific order and everything had to be done 'by the book'. Those Germans. They had rules for everything. They couldn't just have a conversation like that, it had to be a 'statement' and of course it had to be 'recorded'. In this country everything was recorded, either on paper or on tape. And then everything was filed, paginated, numbered and archived. Nothing was lost. They were so damn meticulous, these Germans, but also so damn effective.

"Please begin with your personal life, Mrs. Beauchamp. Name, birthday, place of birth, family, etc."

"My name is Claire Elizabeth Beauchamp. I was born in London on October 20, 1993, the only child of Julia, née Moriston, and Henry Montmorency Beauchamp. My mother was a primary school teacher, my father worked as a statistician for an insurance company. In the winter of 1998 my parents were killed in a car accident. My uncle, Lambert Quentin Beauchamp, was appointed by the authorities as my foster father and guardian. He was my only living relative, my father's only brother. Due to the activities of my uncle, who was an egyptologist and archaeologist, I grew up in England for only a short time, the rest of the time we spend abroad. When I was 16 years old, my uncle returned to England permanently and accepted a professorship at Oxford University. Shortly afterwards I began training as a nurse. Also in Oxford. At the age of 19, I had just completed my education, I met my future husband Franklin Wolverton Randall through my uncle. He also worked in the history department and specialised in Scottish history. At times he worked as an assistant to a professor. We married the following year. My uncle died only a few months later. His health had unfortunately not been the best at the end of his life. When my husband was called to Harvard University's history department, we moved to Boston.

"Oxford" by MarlonRondal

Groide nodded. Jamie was sure that nothing Claire had told him so far was new to his friend. Guaranteed, they had checked Claire from the day he requested the visa for her passport. And they had certainly not been idle since then. At "In Vino Veritas" there was a small but very effective group of staff who had certainly dug up everything they could find about the young woman in the past few days.

"When and how did you learn of your husband's secret activities?"

"It was in the year 2015, in late November of that year to be exact. Does the name Jonathan Pollard mean anything to you?"

Jamie listened with new interest. Groide just nodded.

"Then you know that this man has served thirty years in the United States for espionage. In 2015 he was released on parole and in the American media there was a lot of coverage and discussion for days. I had never heard this man's name before and, to be honest, I didn't care about the whole thing. However, I listened up when my husband spoke about it. It was a Sunday, two days after Pollard was released. I remember the whole thing so well because that day was the day of the terrible accident in that jademine in Myanmar, where 90 people were killed and over 100 people were missing. We had had dinner and then Frank turned on the TV. There was a talk show where the case was discussed. My husband had already started drinking in the afternoon. While Frank was watching the talk show, I thought, ‘My goodness, they're talking about an age-old espionage case and people are dying elsewhere without the media even paying attention.’"

Claire reached for her glass, which Jamie had refilled in the meantime, and took a big sip.

"I didn't pay much attention to the discussion on TV. But then suddenly Frank started mumbling loudly:

'Spy! Spy! Spy! Nonsense! The man was an amateur! What real spy leaves secret documents openly on his desk in the office and his wife was stupid enough to leave a suitcase with secret documents with a neighbour who was in the military himself!’”

Claire reached for her glass again and drank.

"What he said made me furious, so I said to him: 'Oh yes, but you know how a real spy behaves!’ I thought his reaction was terribly arrogant. To my surprise, he then turned down the TV. He came over and sat down with me on the sofa. He looked me in the eyes and grinned. Then he said, ‘Yes, my darling, I know that. The MI5 recruited and trained me while I was still studying at Oxford. Right after they heard I was going to specialise in Scottish history. With my family background and the good connections we had in the military and police through my cousin Jonathan, there were no obstacles.’”

"Books" by MichaelGaida

"How did you react to that?"

"Well, at first I was stumped. I thought he was just showing-off again. So I replied, ‘Why would the MI5 need an expert in Scottish history?’ He replied, ‘Well, of course you can't imagine, you little fool. Good God, Claire! The Scots want independence and just because last year's referendum went so well, they will not give up. It's their history they're drawing strength from! What do you think will happen if they really gain their independence? It could set off a chain reaction. You know that Prime Minister Cameron announced two years ago that he would hold a referendum on Britain's withdrawal from the EU if he was re-elected in 2015? So? He has been re-elected! Now there must be a referendum. And what if Britain's withdrawal from the EU is carried out but Scotland becomes independent and is then admitted to the EU as a member? Did you ever think about that? This is going to get us in big trouble! Then the EU will continue to stand with two legs on our island! We can't let that happen.’”

Claire paused for a moment, then she went on: "I must have looked at him in wonder and disbelief, because suddenly he stormed out of the living room. I heard him looking for something in his study. When he came back he had a newspaper article in his hand which he held in front of my face. ‘Read it,’ he said to me. ‘Our government takes this danger seriously... and so should you!‘ I took the article and read. It was an article in the International Business Times in July 2015. It reported that the Prime Minister had met with the CEOs of a media company. The purpose of the meeting was allegedly to prevent the broadcast of a TV series about the Scottish Rebellion of 1746 before the referendum on Scottish independence. It seems that a request has been made to postpone the broadcast. I later found on his desk a copy of an article from ‘The Scotsman’, which also covered the subject in detail.” Groide and Jamie looked at each other and smiled. Both men nodded, but said nothing.

"Frankly," Claire continued, "I hadn't given the matter any thought at all. In the five years before, I had been mainly busy finishing my medical studies and gaining experience as a doctor. You don't have much time to worry about other things. Besides, due to my, well, somewhat non-conformist upbringing, I was never so much confined to one country alone ..."

"How is it that despite medical school, your husband still refers to you as..." Groide is looking for words, "intellectually... weaker...?” "Frank believes that medical school would consist largely of memorizing the contents of textbooks. He thought that people's bodies were somehow all the same and that if you had learned the appropriate forms of treatment, then you could treat them. He never understood the diversity and complexity of the human body and how medical science reacts to it." "Did your husband explain his duties for the MI5 to you?" "When I told him that Scotland's history, and Scotland's ambitions for independence, were well known, he told me not to think so superficially. He said that historians are not only concerned with the past. They can also make predictions about the future to a certain extent, based on their knowledge. I should think about what the clan system had meant and still means to the Scots. Why did the English central government everything to destroy it after the Jacobite uprising of 1746? England should not allow a united counter-power to be formed again in the north of the country. He was probably particularly concerned about this lobby group, One Banner for all Scots, which had formed the year before."

"Scottish Independence" by Emphyrio Claire was focused on Ferdinand Groide and the recording equipment in front of her. She didn't see Jamie's face become more and more thoughtful.

"Mrs. Beauchamp, all this is interesting, but... not very specific." "At first, I too got to know only general things. It only became more specific later when I did... well, my own... research. "You did your own research?" Groide suddenly seemed interested again. Jamie tried not to smile. What seemed like a minor revelation to his friend only confirmed what he had been thinking all along. Claire was an intelligent, strong woman. Her strength might have been broken for a time by what her husband had done to her. But Jamie was sure that she would find her way back to that strength. And he vowed to himself that he would do everything he could to help her. "I thought Frank was a braggart for a long time, but... I can't describe it exactly. Something had caught my interest. Then a colleague asked me if I would trade a weekly shift with her. She would have had a night shift, but her babysitter was unavailable. I agreed and that same afternoon I went to the university library and borrowed books on Scottish history and the independence movement. The department where I was on night duty was not very labour-intensive. I had a lot of time to read and think during the nights of that week." She paused for a moment. "After that week, I became aware of the urgency of the issue." Groide didn't say anything, but his gaze urged her to continue. "National self-determination. Well, there's no need to explain that further. Scotland's oil. 64% of Europe's oil reserves are on Scottish territory. They're said to be worth 4 trillion pounds. Then there is the issue of renewable energy. I mean Scotland has 25 % of Europe's wind energy potential, 25 % of Europe's tidal energy potential and 10 % of Europe's wave energy potential. I do not have to tell you that these are also enormous financial potentials." A fine smile appeared on Groide's face. "And then, of course, there is the question of nuclear disarmament: with control of defence and foreign policy, an independent Scotland could tackle the elimination of Trident nuclear weapons, an issue long associated with the campaign for an independent Scotland. Trident class submarines carrying missiles with 120 nuclear warheads are based at the Clyde naval base near Glasgow. In the event of Scottish independence, England would have to withdraw these weapons and revise its defence strategy. I imagine that would be a thorn in the side of the American allies as well. There will certainly be a lot of diplomatic pressure behind the scenes." Claire took a deep breath. "Now you're going to tell me that this is all public information and I would agree with you. But I wasn't aware of it before. These informations woke me up. It took a while but when I had the opportunity to take on another week of night shifts I immediately agreed. In this time I developed a kind of plan. I was eager to find out if Frank's statement was true. At first I tried to track when he was going to conferences or work meetings. Not all of them, but several of them took him to England and Scotland. I can't prove it, but I had the impression that his travels became more frequent at times when 'the Scottish theme' was boiling up. Later, after 2015, and particularly after the brexite, his travels intensified.” To Jamie's surprise, Claire reached into her handbag, which she had hung on the back of her chair, and pulled out a piece of paper she handed over to Ferdinand Groide.

"Tea" by Pexels "This is a list of all the trips my husband has taken since 2013. supposedly for reasons of his work as a historian." Groide skimmed the list, then put it aside. "Thank you very much. We will try to verify the data." "In the weeks that followed, I voluntarily took several weeks of night duty. Because there was another advantage to this. I was at home while my husband was at university and could look through his records almost undisturbed."

"Will you share the knowledge you have gained from this?" "Yes. But perhaps we could have some tea?" Claire replied as she looked at Jamie. "Certainly." He got up and left the room. Ferdinand Groide pressed the 'stop' button on the recorder. Then he got up and stretched a bit. Claire did the same.

#14DaysofOutlander #From Boston to Berlin in 14 Hours #Outlander #Outlander fan Fiction #Boston #Berlin #Claire Beauchamp #Jamie Fraser #Frank Randall #Jonathan Randall #Ian Murray #Jenny Murray

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calleo-bricriu · 3 years

Text

I just blew apart the identities of a good 30-ish people on my mom’s side of the family, and it’s a brilliant, wonderful feeling.

There is backstory here, because it doesn’t make sense without it, so grab a snack and get reading. :)

I did the thing I'd sort of half-ass promised my mom I wouldn't do back when I had medical genetic testing done so insurance would cover a few things back in 2016.

That testing was the one where the genetic counselor asked me several times if I was "absolutely sure" I had no Ashkenazi ancestry and after the third time I got a cautious response of, "It's just that you have a lot of markers only found in those populations; the chances of them all being spontaneous mutations are next to zero." then moved on going over the rest of the results.

Insurance ended up covering what it needed to cover, and I had asked my mom about it as she's been really into tracing both sides of the family trees back as far as possible and it's been possible centuries back due to very good paper trails.

She didn't know what I meant by Ashkenazi which is fair enough as most people in the US only know the word because it shows up on medical forms as a yes/no checkbox.

"Jewish. The sort that wasn't just a conversion."

That got a LOOK, and not a confused one a vaguely frightened one and asked where I got that idea.

Told her I had to do medical genetic testing earlier in the year and the genetic counselor had mentioned it and told her in what context.

Got told to "leave it".

Whatever, I'd recently had fairly major surgery anyway so wasn't really in the mood to dig or push about it.

The next year my ex bought one of those "23 and me" type tests for me because I like completely useless things like that, and that one came back with a not insignificant amount labelled Ashkenazi in the mtDNA haplogroup, which would be on my mother's side.

I asked her about it again and showed her two genetic test results, one a formal medical one, and one that had matching genetics that was, you know, not a formal medical set of genetic testing.

Got told to leave it again.

Fine.

She'd also forgotten that she'd added an account I'd made on Ancestry so I could look through the family tree and all the scanned documents (parish records, birth, death, marriage certificates, immigration paperwork, etc...) because it all went back sometimes until the 1600s.

...and I noticed most of went back that far was on my dad's side or on really remote branches of my mom's side.

On her more closely related side, the family she had that emigrated over from Germany in the late 1800s went back to the 1700s, but she's Polish as well.

And the Polish branches stopped at 1930.

They were extensively documented in 1930, with birth certificates, parish records, and immigration papers as they'd all come over to the US from Poland--right around 1930.

For the hell of it, I saved copies of all of that documentation she'd uploaded, and also figured, hey, they're running a 'join for 3 months get a silly DNA kit!' thing, I'll do a third one.

Did a third one.

Got the same results.

Also found that it was less that there was somehow a convenient lack of parish records older than 1930, and parish records don't just disappear, parish records, especially from Europe, are typically very easy to find with minimal difficulty, but I couldn't even find these NAMES earlier than 1930, including the family names.

The thing is, my definitely influenced by being on the autism spectrum special interest period of history is 1900-1945.

One thing you remember, if you do enough more than casual reading, is one of the chief ways Jewish families both got out of Europe more easily AND into the United States more easily in the 1930s was paying to have entirely new identities forged.

New names, new notable dates in terms of births, marriages, etc, and parish records proving they were either Catholic or Protestant. Usually anyone coming from Poland would have gone with Catholic as that's one of Poland's major religions.

Any previous records that would indicate they were anything but Catholic was typically destroyed out of fear of it being dug up and used to deny emigration or immigration (and remember, the United States routinely turned away refugees fleeing Europe if they were found to be Jewish).

So, I went back.

This time, instead of asking, I took the paperwork I'd saved and printed with me, handed it to her, and said, "These are forged. They weren't Catholic. These aren't their names. Does anyone still alive have the older records?"

Her response was, "I thought I told you to leave it!"

"Does anyone alive still remember?"

"...no. Leave it alone."

Turns out, she'd figured it out based on the cutoff date of the records and knowing history in general, but never said anything because, as the conversation later brought up, "It'd throw too many people's identities into chaos." and reiterated multiple times that they converted which, technically true, but it really doesn't...count if you're forced into it out of fear of ending up dead.

That's also the side of the family that, even by 2017, I didn't speak to most of them unless forced to do so because they're a lot of very rural, very right wing, very openly neo nazi jackasses.

That last part? That part is important. That last conversation about it happened in late 2017.

My mother knows me well enough to know that the first set of thoughts through my head absolutely ran along the lines of, "I'm telling these assholes at the next family reunion because they deserve to have their entire belief system and sense of identity shattered."

Also, that's the side of the family when, back around 2012 or so, one of my definitely unpleasant cousins cornered me to talk about the "shared interest" we had in what that dumb motherfucker termed "world war 2" and got his nose broken by the cousin with purple hair and multiple tattoos for saying we had a lot in common so--saying I don't get along with that side of the family is kind of an understatement.

If they're not afraid I'll also break some bone they possess for existing within punching or steel toed boot kicking range, they openly dislike me, which is fine, it's a very mutual feeling.

And there was a long talk of, "Could you not? Just ignore them, they're stupid, but they're harmless." which was mostly "it's kind of a hassle when you physically assault one of your asshole cousins at a picnic".

By that point I rarely went to those things anyway as free food didn't make up for having to listen to them say words where I could hear them so, whatever, I told her I wouldn't say anything.

Most of them hadn't spoken to me in years anyway but a few of them stayed in spotty contact on Facebook and in an often not used outside of planning reunions group that they'd invited me to join partially so it looked like they were 'making an effort' and also because the place we use for those stupid family reunions is owned by my parents (and I'm also on the deed) so I'd be one of the few people that would have a legal right to tell them all they weren't allowed to be on the property.

I accepted the invitation, just never really paid attention to it because, again, I do not like these people on any level.

Turns out, this evening, I stopped thinking they were even remotely harmless and was reminded that they still existed because they started using that group as their apparent safe space to talk about their views on current events; it’s very possible they may have forgotten I was even in the group as they added me close to 3 years ago and I’ve never posted anything.

So, I’m sitting there after work, watching these absolute shitstain excuses for people be smug about some imagined ‘win’, and I decided to remind them I still exist.

My first, last, and only post to the group: "FYI, none of your grandparents were Catholic. They were all Jewish. You're all ethnically Jewish. See you in July! :)" posted all of my genetic test results, the family trees where they were all included because, shocker, we're all related, scans of the forged records with large notations over all the forged information, and left the group.

Blocked the rest of them, and let them blow my phone up for awhile with calls I didn't pick up, texts I didn't read, and voicemails I didn't listen to--and blocked their numbers as well.

Earlier in the evening I mentioned in Discord that I was probably going to hear from my mother about it and I did (they’d long since removed my dad from the group over the MAGA hats in the firepit thing that happened last July, and my parents share a Facebook account), but it was a short and lovely text exchange of:

"What did you do?"

"I told them."

"Oh. Well, they're all assholes anyway. We should be back on Friday."

Also, nobody is going to see them in July because LAST July after they turned up after my parents told them there wasn't going to be a reunion due to Covid, about 30 of them showed up and that was the summer that I got the text from my mom asking if I was going to stop by.

"How many MAGA hats are out in the yard?"

"Hang on, I'll ask your dad."

20 minutes later:

"About a dozen."

"How many would I be able to throw in the fire pit before it'd cause an issue?"

"Hang on, I'll ask your dad."

20 minutes later, and a reminder for those who don't know, my dad is 6'8", built like a tank even in his 70s, and has a white beard down to his waist (Pointless bonus: When he was younger it was orange and his hair was a slightly darker orange than his dad’s was.). Ex-Navy Vet, took a fish bait he was grinding hooks on to the EYE a couple years ago and just sort of calmly walked upstairs to say, “I think I need you to drive me to the ER.” to my mom (whose response was to start laughing and tell him she TOLD him to put safety goggles on so they’re both a little...odd.) about it, not generally the sort of person anyone wants to even begin to fuck with despite the fact that he’s incredibly calm and even tempered:

"8 and they all left about five minutes ago."

#ooc #politics #I NPC those jackasses all the time as relatives that Calleo either generally fucks with and occasionally kills #they definitely deserve that treatment in fiction too #family #I got to shatter the general identities of at least 16 people tonight #and do not regret it #30 if you count their spouses and older children #16 if it's the actual direct cousins #long post

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