#to preserve a harmonious family life you know

[chrysoula]

Imaginary Aventurine

Let's imagine: (theory, fic idea, headcanon: the triple goddess)

Aventurine is lucky. Aventurine is really lucky. Aventurine is supernaturally lucky. Quite possibly, that Cornerstone is not as powerful as the luck blessing he has. Or perhaps it's a gift from an Aeon? Or maybe just the legacy of a dead one. Now... let's see. Ena the Order's third eye is very similar to his. And boy, have they been Making Sure We Know About Ena via Simulated Universe and likewise, they've been making a surprisingly big deal about a supposedly non-existent mother goddess worshipped by a nearly extinct people. Hey, you know what I heard? Xipe the Harmony ate Ena the Order. And now, quite possibly, her last chosen (??) has waltzed into a place where the Family is hiding something a lot bigger than a few violent crimes, a place on the far shore of a dark sea... I wonder what he'll find? I wonder if his Gaiatha Triclops will be relevant as more than a personal backstory before the end...? Ok, probably not. That's why this imaginary! But man, I want to use this idea in a fic. So much. I was also thinking about his 'luck' and wondering if he's actually lucky in general, or if it's always related to preserving his life. But I remember his phone status, in which he offers to roll on the gacha for others. So... probably lucky in general. Still, it's not that hard to make 'luck' align with 'order'. ("align, heh heh"). His luck is a series of events that all happen to line up, in order, to get him places others might consider impossible... Finally, let me just coo over him a tiny bit: God, Aventurine, baby. You are so sweetly, deeply fucked up. You have so many layers you're a crepe cake. Give away your cash. Give away your luck. But you can't give away that survivor's guilt and the awareness that all your luck does is save you, and you're not at all what your family believed you to be. But you've worked out how to make your luck useful for others. All you have to do is bet your life. It's the only thing you really have, right? Do you deserve any more? And you've done this before, my lad. You don't make deals you can lose because you don't consider sacrificing your life to be losing. You've always got some other victory condition, right? You put on pretty clothes and flash those pretty eyes, but underneath you're a scrawny, strung-out adrenaline junkie who knows exactly how to manipulate himself to do what needs to be done. A bonus: The softest headcanon: When Jade said the Stonehearts would give him everything he wanted, and what he didn't want too, what Jade meant was a new family.

#honkai star rail #2.1 spoilers #aventurine #hsr aventurine #headcanon #fic thoughts #hsr theory

[zapreportsblog]

Can you tonowari x male reader

❝curious being❞

✭ pairing : tonowari x male reader

✭ fandom : avatar the way of water

✭ summary : (m/n) is a scientist that travels with the sully family to monitor kiri’s health, upon up and leaving to the Metkayina Clan (m/n) gains the attention of their leader tonowari

✭ avatar the way of water masterlist

(M/N), a dedicated scientist with a passion for biology and botany, had always dreamed of exploring the diverse ecosystems of Pandora. When the opportunity to travel to the distant moon arose, he eagerly accepted the offer, knowing that this would be the adventure of a lifetime.

His mission was clear: to monitor the health and well-being of the Sully family, who had become an integral part of the Na'vi community on Pandora. Among them was Kiri, a young Na'vi child whose unique connection to the planet's flora and fauna had drawn the attention of scientists from Earth.

As (M/N) journeyed to Pandora, he marveled at the breathtaking beauty of the lush rainforests, vibrant bioluminescence, and the harmonious relationship between the Na'vi people and their environment. It was a world unlike any he had ever known.

Upon his arrival at the Metkayina Clan, (M/N) was met with a warm welcome from Neytiri, the leader of the clan. She introduced him to the Sully family, including Jake and Neytiri's daughter, Kiri, who had a deep bond with the Pandoran ecosystem.

Over the weeks and months that followed, (M/N) observed the Sully family's interactions with the Na'vi and the planet's flora and fauna. He documented Kiri's unique abilities and studied the intricate connections between the Na'vi and their environment.

As (M/N) immersed himself in the culture and way of life of the Metkayina Clan, he couldn't help but be drawn to the charismatic leader, Tonowari. A towering and imposing figure, Tonowari was revered by his people for his wisdom and leadership.

One day, as (M/N) conducted his research in the heart of the Pandoran rainforest, he encountered Tonowari. The leader had been observing the scientist's work from a distance, his keen eyes taking in every detail.

Tonowari approached (M/N) with a sense of curiosity, his voice deep and resonant. "You are a scientist from the sky people’s world, here to study our ways and our connection to Eywa."

(M/N) nodded, feeling a mixture of respect and awe in the presence of the Na'vi leader. "Yes, I am. I've come to learn and understand the harmony that exists between your people and this incredible planet."

Tonowari regarded (M/N) thoughtfully, his gaze penetrating. "Your presence here is a rare opportunity for both our worlds. You have much to learn, and we have much to share."

Over time, (M/N) and Tonowari would engage in conversations that transcended the boundaries of science and culture. They found common ground in their shared fascination with the mysteries of Pandora and their desire to protect and preserve its beauty.

As their bond deepened, (M/N) realized that his journey to Pandora had not only been a scientific expedition but also a journey of personal growth and enlightenment. In the presence of the Na'vi and their leader, he discovered a sense of belonging and purpose that transcended the boundaries of his own world.

As the days turned into weeks, (M/N) continued his work as a scientist, closely monitoring the Sully family's interactions with the Na'vi and the Pandoran ecosystem. His studies deepened his understanding of the unique bond between the Na'vi people and the living world around them.

Tonowari, the Metkayina Clan's leader, often accompanied (M/N) on his research expeditions. Their shared passion for Pandora's biodiversity and their discussions about preserving its delicate balance strengthened their growing friendship.

During one of their excursions deep into the Pandoran rainforest, (M/N) had the privilege of witnessing an awe-inspiring event—a rare connection between Kiri and a powerful Pandoran creature known as a Toruk. The moment was both magical and humbling, a testament to the profound bond between the Na'vi and their environment.

As (M/N) observed these extraordinary moments, he couldn't help but be captivated by the beauty and mystery of Pandora. He had come to realize that his role as a scientist was not just to observe but to protect and advocate for this unique world and its inhabitants.

One evening, under the soft glow of Pandoran bioluminescence, Tonowari and (M/N) sat by a tranquil river. The sound of the flowing water and the chorus of nocturnal creatures filled the air. Tonowari turned to the scientist with a thoughtful expression.

"(M/N), your presence here has been a gift to us," Tonowari began. "You have shown respect for our ways and a deep appreciation for the beauty of Pandora. In you, I see the potential for a bridge between our worlds."

(M/N) nodded, his heart filled with gratitude for the acceptance and wisdom of the Na'vi leader. "I am honored to have been welcomed into your clan, Tonowari. I hope to continue learning from your people and to find ways to protect this remarkable world."

Tonowari's eyes gleamed with a sense of purpose. "Together, we can work to safeguard Pandora. Your scientific knowledge and our spiritual connection to Eywa can be a formidable force for preservation."

From that moment on, (M/N) and Tonowari formed a partnership based on mutual respect, understanding, and a shared commitment to the well-being of Pandora. As they continued to explore the wonders of this mystical world, they knew that their collaboration held the potential to create a brighter future for both the Na'vi and humanity.

As (M/N) and Tonowari continued their collaborative efforts to study and protect Pandora, their bond deepened. They spent countless hours together, sharing knowledge and experiences that bridged the gap between their two worlds.

Tonowari introduced (M/N) to the spiritual practices of the Na'vi, teaching him about their deep connection to Eywa, the guiding force of the planet. (M/N) was humbled by the Na'vi's reverence for nature and their harmonious way of life, and he eagerly embraced their teachings.

In return, (M/N) shared his scientific expertise with the Na'vi, helping them better understand the intricate ecosystems of Pandora. He developed innovative methods to monitor the health of the flora and fauna, and his contributions to their understanding of the planet's biodiversity were invaluable.

One day, as they ventured into a particularly dense part of the Pandoran rainforest, (M/N) and Tonowari came across a previously undiscovered species of bioluminescent flora. The plants emitted a mesmerizing, iridescent glow, and their discovery was a testament to the untapped wonders of Pandora.

Tonowari placed a hand on (M/N)'s shoulder, his eyes filled with awe and appreciation. "Your presence has brought us closer to understanding and preserving the beauty of our world. Together, we are forging a path toward a brighter future for Pandora and its inhabitants."

(M/N) smiled, deeply moved by Tonowari's words. "And your wisdom and connection to Eywa have enriched my life in ways I never imagined. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this journey."

Their collaboration extended beyond their scientific pursuits. (M/N) participated in the Na'vi's cultural rituals and celebrations, strengthening his bond with the Metkayina Clan. He learned to appreciate the simplicity of life on Pandora and the importance of living in harmony with nature.

As the seasons changed on Pandora and the vibrant colors of the flora transformed the landscape, (M/N) and Tonowari's partnership remained steadfast. They were united by a shared vision—a vision of a world where humans and Na'vi could coexist, protect the planet, and ensure its survival for generations to come.

In the heart of Pandora's wild beauty, (M/N) had found not only a purpose but a family. The Metkayina Clan had embraced him as one of their own, and Tonowari had become not only his mentor but also a trusted friend. Together, they continued their journey of discovery and preservation, determined to make a difference in the fragile and enchanting world they had come to love.

#x reader #x reader one shot #x reader oneshot #avatar the way of water #avatar way of water #avatar masterlist #tonowari #tonowari x y/n #tonowari x reader #tonowari x you #tonowari x male reader #tonowari x male you #tonowari x male y/n #avatar the way of water masterlist #avatar the way of water x reader

[blueopinions49]

Healthy/Unhealthy Type 2

Healthy Social 2

Sue Storm (2w1 so/sx)- While id say Ben is closer to the heart of F4 id say sue is the soul of the group. Her view on humanity is formed based on how we all owe something to the other and need to progress and form community.

Kiki Takayama (2w1 so/sp)- Her main struggle in the story is how she is defined in relation to others and what acts of service can she provide to make life better for them. She goes through a bit of crisis mid way in the film and eventually returns to her center at the end.

Clark Kent 2w1 (so/sx)- Similar to Kiki his struggle on he is in relation to others might affect him a bit however, in his better written comics we see a superman who embraces his place as a protect of earth and balances both of his identities.

Unhealthy Social 2

Makima 2w1 so/sx- Her view of humans as pets and need to be loved comes from a place of wanting to emulate love. However Makima is a great example of 2 who has complete moved to 5 completely. Seeing love and good as a need to control others.

Harmony Cobel 2w1 so/sp- Power over other in the form of control and manipulation. Being fully on board with the severance program believing that it's what's best for others.

Allison Dilaruntis 2w3 so/sx- She's an emotional terrorist...yeah. Great example of a 2 disintegrating to 8 and becoming comfortable in manipulating others and using them in order for what's good for the group (the liars). Basically ruling over the town using blackmail and straight up violence when needed.

Healthy Self Preservation 2

-Fiona Gallagher (2w3 sp/sx)- While debatable if she is healthy or not her desire to protect herself and her family form all the threats on the outside world. She rejects the need of E2 to take care of others and Instead craves being taken care of.

-Cher Horowitz (2w3 sp/so)- To others she might come off as ditsy and rude however Cher exemplifies an odd and immature type of care. As the movie goes on we see a Cher who actually starts learning to accept and take care of others outside her narrow perspective.

-Alice Cullen (2w1 sp/so)- Her upbringing makes her wanting to be taken care of by Casper. Usually she reserves her caring nature to those around her and herself. However she always does extend an olive branch when it comes to helping others.

Unhealthy Self Preservation 2

-Amma Crellin (2w3 sp/sx) -A compete rejection of giving as a whole. Her desire to be taken care by someone makes her commit horrible acts and letting herself be hurt. Her frustration with her environment ends up fueling her with rage and resentment.

-Cassie Howard (2w1 sp/sx) - While I thought she was an SX type at first if we pay attention to Cass we can actually see that she is an SP type. One of the things we see of Cassie is that she will not be alone and if her emotional meets aren't met at the moment she will go out of her way to correct them even if it means bad choices.

-Elena Gilbert (2w1 sp/so)- Yeah we have beef...anyways...Her need to preserve herself and those around her can come off at the cost of EVERY other person who she doesn't know. Sometimes being incredibly hypocritical and rude.

Healthy Sexual 2

-Gloria Delgado-Prichette (2w3 sx/so)- The need to be completed by being loved isn't really her main concern. She has fully integrated to her 8 and become a pilar I her family were others can come for advice and wisdom.

-Sakura Haruno (2w1 sx/so)- Her health levels are very subjective due to the fact that her whole development is centered around Sasuke and well you guys know the rest. However id argue she leans more ti healthy due to her eventually detaching her desires from him and developing into her self.

-Rebekah Mikaelson (2w3 sx/sp)- The most 8 looking enneagram two in this post and we adore her for it. Rebekah has been emotionally neglected by her family allot and her only desire in this lifetime is to have a child and regain her humanity. And. by the end of the show we see a fully realized Rebekah with a family, happy and stable.

Unhealthy Sexual 2

-Maria (2w3 sx/sp)- Her only purpose in existence is to be attached to James and being a subconscious part of him. She is forever stuck in that place never truly getting to attach to someone who will value her and love her.

-Wendy (2w3 sx/so)- Fear of not being love by Jennifer makes her insecurities take over and eventually using the red crayon society against her. Even when she is exiled she returns to the rose garden orphanage to commit her last mistake. Most of her wrong doings come from an immature mind and lack of understanding of consequences.

-The Other Mother (2w1 sx/sp)- A craving for others to not join her in the limited space her makes her violent and angry. Also she eats children

P.S I should've used Annie Wilks for unhealthy SX2...

P.S part 2 I should've been more serious in some parts but I haven't posted in an official post in a while and college has been hell the last few weeks.

#mbti #zodiac #personality types #zodic signs #typology #enneagram #mbti personality types #16 personalities #ennegram #personality typology #enneagram 2 #type 2 #2w1 #2w3 #superman #clark kent #makima #allison dilaurentis #fiona gallagher #cher horowitz #alice cullen #cassie howard #amma crellin #rule of rose #the other mother #maria silent hill #rebekah mikaelson #sakura haruno #SX2 #so2

[getcardedtarot]

What are you resisting? PAC

Hello, lovelies! Today, we'll be delving deeply into resistance in your life. What you're resisting, how it manifests, what you could have if you let go, where the resistance comes from, and where you need to let go.

Take a few moment to breathe deeply and relax. When you're ready, let your intuition guide you to the message meant for you.

As a disclaimer, my readings are for entertainment. Any choices you make are your own.

You know it’s time for a new beginning, yet you’re resisting. This new beginning requires a leap of faith. It requires going into the unknown. You’re afraid of leaving what you have now for something that may not work out. And so, you try to put it off. 

This manifests as holding tightly to the past. You cling to the familiar, try to preserve it. But that time is done, and holding onto it will become unhealthy. It no longer serves you. It’s time to move on and let it go. It is scary and difficult, but it must be done to evolve and gain more. 

I see absolute bliss for you in the long run if you let go of your resistance. I see emotional fulfillment, and family. I see loving people surrounding you. You will have people around you to build a new life with. This future is yours, it belongs to you. You just have to release the old and embrace the new. 

This resistance is stemming from anxiety. I see a lot of stress. I see sleepless nights. This is something that worries you a lot. Know that tormenting yourself unnecessarily. At this point, your worry is going to be the most difficult challenge you face. This is something you’re putting on yourself. This difficulty is originating from within you. You can put a stop to it. 

The area containing the resistance is your mind. Remember that you are in control of yourself. You can make this worry and agonizing go away. Take your mind away from the past and put it toward the future and you will thrive! Put up boundaries, don’t let people bring you down at this time. You do enough worrying for yourself without others giving you more to worry about. Also put up boundaries with yourself. There is a time and place for considering future possibilities, thinking of what could go wrong. At night when you’re trying to sleep is not it. 

You’ve been finding yourself enamored with indulgences. You’re having a hard time practicing moderation and finding balance. This may be the first time you’ve been able to really indulge this way. You’re resisting the self-discipline needed to bring more harmony to your life. 

This manifests as instability. You’re chasing after this blissful feeling of having what you want, to the detriment of actually having control in your life. I see that you may be overspending. You want these things, and you want to feel good. However, in the long run it’s beginning to wear on you. You’re beginning to see the effects it’s having on your life. 

If you let go of this resistance, you could have real control over your life and where it’s headed. Saying no to yourself in the short term is difficult and uncomfortable, but necessary to change the trajectory of your path. You are so capable of achieving what you want. You just need to work on denying yourself short term pleasures in favor of long term fulfillment. 

Your resistance is coming from apathy to your future. You’re being careless and not really considering the consequences of overindulging now. You’re neglecting your future. You’re feeling carefree and happy now, but you’re looking up at the sky, not down at the cliff you’re about to step off. 

In order to let go of this resistance and unlock the real potential of your future, you need to find satisfaction in what you already have around you. Start romanticizing yourself and your life. Find ways to really enjoy what you can about your current life. Stop trying to run away from it. Take pride in what you have, and begin to add to it. 

You’re resisting a new emotional beginning. This might be a relationship, or just the situation you’re currently in. I’m seeing that you don’t really want to consider new possibilities at the moment. You’re still very much emotionally entrenched in your current situation. I’m seeing overflowing emotions.

This is manifesting as extremes. You’re doing things in excess. You’re having a difficult time keeping balance in your life. I’m seeing this as a way to comfort yourself, to distract from what you know to be true about your situation. The situation has run its course and it’s time to move to something new. 

If you let go of this resistance, you could overcome the challenges. You could achieve independence, do things on your own, on your own terms. You wouldn’t have to rely on anyone. The sense of confidence and mastery you’ll feel will be unimaginable. You will be unstoppable. No one will be able to question who is in control of you and your life. You’ll be able to do whatever you want.

Your resistance is stemming from a focus on financial security. I’m seeing that your finances are tied with the situation you’re currently in. You know that it’s no longer serving you, and that causes you stress. You also know that leaving will be difficult. You’re used to certain creature comforts, and moving on will cause you to have to sacrifice some of those for a little while. However, in the end, you will have those back and more. 

In order to let go of this resistance, you will need to temporarily put aside your indulgences. Gather your inner strength. This is a small sacrifice for your greater good. Gain a sense of maturity and ownership of your finances. Start working on your own financial security now, to make leaving easier. You’re capable of doing this. It will be difficult at first, but ultimately you will have the life you want. 

#tarot #pac #pick a card #pac reading #pick a card reading #pick a pile #pick a pile reading #tarotblr #free tarot #tarot reading #tarot readings #free tarot readings

[chrisadew]

Chiron & healing ❤️‍🩹

Chiron in our charts shows our pain points; the things that have or continue to wound us, but also allow us to heal ourselves and others. With Chiron, the healing never really ends. My original posts are up on my Instagram (@chrisadew) and include videos. Check it out if you feel like it ✨

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Healing with Chiron in Aries: the wound of self

♈️ Wounds =

Issues around independence or taking charge, lack of faith in your ability to lead; excessively impulsive, defensive and selfish tendencies, or constantly serving others before yourself. Seeing yourself through the eyes of others. Fear of following the things that ignite passion in you.

♈️ How to heal =

Start by learning to trust your instincts; take initiative and volunteer to be first sometimes. Act based on your constructive self interests. “I gotta put me first” is valid, because nothing should be at the expense of your well-being. Do things that have nothing to do with anyone else, things that honestly make you happy, light you up and nurture you. Your gift is showing others that harmony starts with being fair to yourself.

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Healing with Chiron in Taurus: the wound of loss

♉️ Wounds =

Issues around stability and sensuality, not knowing where you stand or not recognising your value. Fear of not having access to resources or a tangible foundation. Stubbornly holding on to things you’ve outgrown out of a fear of lack.

♉️ How to heal =

Start by fully committing to the things you already have by showing appreciation. Appraise them and be willing to let them go if necessary. Learn to cultivate patience by taking on something that takes time to grow - i.e. making investments into things that you really want. Think about what your value system is or what you want it to be. Think about the things that make you feel worthy, things that require steady growth and accumulation over time. Things that regularly engage and stimulate your senses. Your gift is the ability to create on your own that which was not given to you.

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Healing with Chiron in Gemini: the wound of intelligence

♊️ Wounds =

Issues with communicating or expressing your thoughts and knowledge; denying your curiosity or ignoring the facts in favour of 'being right'. Taking life too seriously or entertaining gossip. Fear of being wrong or not being heard.

♊️ How to heal =

Start by writing down or recording your own thoughts and using that to plan out what you want to express. Journaling can be therapeutic too. Practice speaking up and put yourself in places where you feel comfortable raising your voice. Seek out people who respect you and value what it is that you have to say. You can say what’s on your mind! Your gift is showing others how healthy communication opens the door to new ideas and experiences.

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Healing with Chiron in Cancer: the wound of family

♋️ Wounds =

Issues around emotional openness, feeling closed off or blocked, like you don’t belong or finding it difficult to connect with those you consider family. Feeling neglected or instinctively responding with excessive self-preservation and hiding your feelings. Fear of truly letting people in.

♋️ How to heal =

Start by learning to sit with your emotions and center them. Write them down to help you process them. Use your favourite memories to put you in a good mood and remind you of what you need to feel nurtured and protected. Make new memories with purpose. Connect with positive influences that make you feel safe enough to be vulnerable and help stabilise your emotional state. Above all, don’t deny your intuition - work with it. Your gift is showing others how to accept the dimensions within moods and feelings without judgement.

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Healing with Chiron in Leo: the wound of talent

♌️ Wounds =

Issues around attention or recognition; fear of pride and being seen as self-centered. Being made to feel like you’re not special. Seeking validation in the wrong places.

♌️ How to heal =

Start by figuring out what it is that you’re good at and love to do. Use that to start your own passion project as a way of taking the spotlight and feeding your creativity. Don’t be afraid to show it off, whatever it is. Putting yourself out there builds up your courage! Nobody else can do what you do like you. Your gift is showing others how following your heart brings you strength.

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Healing with Chiron in Virgo: the wound of perfection

♍️ Wounds =

Issues surrounding not feeling like you’re good enough; fear of being wrong, inadequate or ineffective. Overly critical (self and others), or paying attention to the wrong things. Putting your dreams on hold to take care of others; overworking yourself.

♍️ How to heal =

Start by releasing the idea of ‘perfection’; whose standards are you living by? It should be yours and nobody else’s. Do the thing that you want to do for you…just do it! The more you do, the more the anxiety around it is released. You are not responsible for the chaos. Pick up what’s yours and yours alone. There’s evidence all around you of how good you already are, don’t discount that, no matter how small, no matter how many times you may have had to reconstruct it. Your gift is showing others how to refine and build on practical wisdom.

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Healing with Chiron in Libra: the wound of relationships

♎️ Wounds =

Issues surrounding partnerships, relationships, collaboration or compromise. Giving too much where your needs aren’t being met or excessive self-centeredness. Resisting compromise in extremes, one-sided thinking or misdirected anger and passive aggression. Fear of accepting and honouring your wants and needs.

♎️ How to heal =

Start by acknowledging that while not everything should be done alone, you are your own person and worthy of reciprocity. It’s okay to invite people in and compromise, but before you do - analyse whether it’s a good match for you. There should be no imbalances. Ask for help, work with a partner, but honouring your self-identity also means clearly communicating who’s supposed to be giving what, so that things remain equal and fair. Your gift is showing others that cultivating win-win situations is possible.

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Healing with Chiron in Scorpio: the wound of depth

♏️ Wounds =

Issues around intimacy, being vulnerable with others, deep hurts and traumas; secretly taking intense measures against the people in your life to counteract feelings of distrust or holding on to meaningless grudges. Fear of powerlessness.

♏️ How to heal =

Start by asking yourself: what are you afraid of? Acknowledge that true vulnerability has its benefits. Get invested in something that requires an exchange of resources as a way of letting go of what keeps you feeling heavy. Commit to a process that takes time, but produces an outcome that makes you feel powerful in the end; get comfortable with accepting support from others and trusting them. Your gift is showing others that you can transform and develop through focus.

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Healing with chiron in Sagittarius: the wound of belief

♐️ Wounds =

Issues with limiting beliefs, fear of experiences outside your comfort zone, or taking on the truths of others as your own. Being too blunt and relying on logic over your higher mind or faith.

♐️ How to heal =

Start by assessing yourself; what is your truth? What do you believe? Break free from the indoctrination that keeps you stuck. Don’t be afraid to experience new things, environments and new journeys that give you a sense of your truth. Develop your own morals, ideals and philosophies by asking yourself honest questions. Acknowledge alternative perspectives without diminishing your own. Your gift is showing others how to expand beyond what you’ve been taught.

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Healing with Chiron in Capricorn: the wound of accomplishment

♑️ Wounds =

Issues with authority, challenge and success; feeling burdened (and resentful) with responsibility. Focusing too much on the past. Feeling like you have to ‘control’ your emotions. Fear of not meeting your potential.

♑️ How to heal =

Start by defining what success looks like to you. Make small goals and take the steps needed to achieve them. Align yourself with people that have the kind of reputation you aspire to, personally and professionally. There’s nothing wrong with letting people take care of you sometimes. Do not mistake taking on the responsibility of others as your purpose. 'Can' does not mean 'should'. Everything doesn’t have to fall on your shoulders alone. Your purpose is your purpose. Your gift is showing others how to keep the promises they make to themselves.

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Healing with Chiron in Aquarius: the wound of belonging

♒️ Wounds =

Issues with fitting in and feeling included or accepted. Distancing yourself on purpose or inflated self-importance. Seeking approval in groups that don’t understand you to begin with. Fear of alienation and being seen as ‘weird’.

♒️ How to heal =

Don’t be afraid to do things differently and on your own terms. Start by embracing your quirkiness and people will gravitate towards you. If you’re not feeling represented in the group you’re in, start your own! Seek out others with similar ideologies. The more you experiment, the more confidence has the potential to grow. You have a lot to offer and that doesn’t change based on the opinions of other people. Your gift is showing others what’s possible by being your authentic self.

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Healing with Chiron in Pisces: the wound of trust

♓️ Wounds =

Issues with selflessness, being taken advantage of or feeling misunderstood; not believing your dreams are attainable. Overindulgence in fantasy and escapism as self undoing, avoiding reality; fear of suffering.

♓️ How to heal =

Start by assessing whether what you do in the here and now supports what you want and truly desire. If not, take action on it! Denying your dreams does not serve you. Like Virgo, you are not responsible for everyone or everything. Express yourself through creation; this helps channel what you’re feeling or sensing to make it a tangible reality and avoid feeling disconnected. Trust yourself and surrender; letting go is not giving up. Your gift is showing people that if you can dream it, you can be it.

© 2022 chrisadew. All rights reserved.

#astrology observations #astrology #black astrologer #chrisadew #chiron #my posts #astro notes #astro observations #aries #taurus #gemini #cancer #leo #virgo #libra #scorpio #sagittarius #capricorn #aquarius #pisces #earth signs #air signs #fire signs #water signs

[rock-n-serval]

2.1 Penacony thoughts [part2]

**Spoiler warning** Covering up until we switch to Acheron’s POV alongside Welt (not their first conversation but actually playing as her, hence the cover photo), so be kind to yourself and look away if you haven’t reached that point yet. Brace yourself once more; I’m going to ramble.

First things first, this whole shrinking down scene where we traverse through a model of Penacony was so odd. Poor Ratio had to be rolling his eyes so hard just watching a tiny Aventurine run around like that.

I feel like we didn’t learn much about Sunday last patch, but hearing him speak about how orderly and presentable we should be at all times really fits his personality. The pretty boy certainly knows how to look good and leads me like him even more..

But only for a moment as he then uses some Harmony trickery against Aventurine so he’s forced to answer his several questions truthfully, or at least that’s the feeling I got from watching this interrogation. Seeing this was quite interesting to me because there’s this anime call No Guns Life where a character by the name Tetsuro has an ability called “harmonie” which allows him to control other extends (robots basically) and they way the anime shows it looked very familiar with all the color.

Moving on, Sasuke Uchiha vibes are coming in strong with our gambler being a potential sole clan survivor, not to mention Aventurine admitting his love toward his family is something he values more than himself. Also, I don’t like this bird.. sitting there, keeping an eye on everything, even during Aventurine’s chat with Sparkle later on. I know the Family has a big Nightingale theme going on but still. Big Brother (or in this case the Family) always watching hm?

NOPE. Any small hope I had for Sunday being someone we could safely trust has flown straight out the window with this sinister smirk of his, no matter how handsomely good it makes him look here.

I love that no matter what is going on or who he’s talking to, Ratio always manages to mildly insult others without a care in the world.

So stuff about the Cornerstones gets revealed, how all Ten Stonehearts have one of their own and how very important said stones are to them, so what on earth was Aventurine doing with both his and Potaz Pazto Topaz’s? Also found it interesting how closely hers resembles Qlipoth’s body when she isn’t a Preservation unit like Aventurine is.

Sunday then gives Aventurine only 17 system hours to live and he has to spend it solving Robin’s case with little to no outside help or hints on where to begin. Talk about immense pressure. Let my man gamble in peace!

And if all that wasn’t enough to make me start feeling bad for our fancy man, we get a sad backstory featuring his sister and even learning how both their parents died! Because OF COURSE they’re setting me up to get upset about him for some reason later on in the story and now I’m so terrified because if I learned anything from anime it’s that these kinds of flashback are major red death flags.

The feeling of joy came back to me though upon seeing Topaz show up. Despite Aventurine being around and all the mentions of the IPC, I honestly wasn’t expecting her to visit Penacony at all, but I’m very pleased to see her again! She definitely grew on me after that one quest in Belobog and even though she doesn’t have access to most places on Penacony like her coworker currently does, it’s nice she’s willing to lend a helping hand to us.

It doesn’t settle well with me that none of the Bloodhounds know who Gallagher is. Ain’t he supposed to be top dog around here and in charge?

Oh red text, why must you haunt me so easily? Imagine how different all of Penacony would feel if we had the option to completely turn off subtitles. People would definitely have various opinions regarding Acheron if they knew of her ominous words or not.

I wanna chalk this up as a HI3 reference, but I can’t be sure as I’ve never played. If so, I love how they can toss in hints about Welt’s past like this.

And hers.. I imagine bits and pieces would line up with her past one way or another too.

A little while after that, we cut back to Black Swan and y’all, we FINALLY get some sort of Boothill interaction in the story! Only audio for now but I’ll take it!

Hearing about bullets, him getting annoyed about Acheron being a “galaxy ranger” and the Hunt path are wonderful ways to confirm who it is and I can’t wait to eventually see him in game.

Seems like he isn’t too thrilled with Acheron though and of course, he too knows of her Emenator status. There goes my brief hopes of them being in friendly terms and seeing them work together I suppose.

This item that Ratio gives Aventurine before he suddenly disappears (again) and how it features one of his voicelines.. hilarious. It’s like it was spoken specifically for Aventurine and no one else.

I may be a little stupid.. do we know who the other mute is? The one dead is clearly Robin, but surely the other can’t be Sunday right? He spoke perfectly fine. I’m thinking back to all the Penacony characters we’ve met and they all sound fine, aside from Sam but he’s robotic so naturally he would sound a bit different yea? Maybe we haven’t met this other mute yet, I dunno. The “again” part of Sparkle’s line makes me feel like we have met them at least once.

Sweetie, how the fuck did you manage to sneak such a dangerous device into Penacony?? Even Aventurine is concerned about how the Family doesn’t know of it.

Okay.. so the whole flashback with Aventurine being bought as a slave and used to gamble for his master is tough. I know many people speculated what the mark on his neck said, and majority did think “slave” was written, but man, the hint didin’t make this story any easier to hear. Being blessed with luck ain’t always a good thing hm? Hearing the guy say “all or nothing” and learning from Topaz about how that phrase is now Aventurine’s mantra.. oh boy.

Siobhan is gorgeous and if she was playable I’d definitely pull for her.

SERVAL MENTION HUZZAH! I’m aware they mentioned my girl during the livestream and how they’re both the rebellious ones in their respective families, but Siobhan actually wanting to meet her? Oohhh~

Okay but the fact we’re encountered so many deaths, during the many story and side quests, in a short amount of time shouldn’t be normal. The way he seems so indifferent about it too.. “so what?” like sir, people are dying.

Oh, we did indeed receive one as well. That was the invitation, wasn’t it? I thought the music box Acheron stole from Duke was something different and special for different reasons. Nevermind.

I seriously need to check back into the creepy dream we experienced last time after Sparkle knocked us out, where we encountered that memory zone meme and listen to all the shouting we heard of this Mikhail guy. I figured he had to be someone important, but the Watchmaker and betrayer of the Family? Oh dear.

I bet you anything it’s Misha. Working behind the scenes in the hotel this entire time would definitely be an effective strategy, and his technique outside battle literally stops time and that seems like the perfect kind of ability for someone named “Watchmaker.”

Gallagher wondering if this certain person is real or not is another reason I think it’s Misha because apparently no one notices his presence at all. During that one scene with us, Firefly, Acheron, Misha & Clockie last past, the girlies didn’t acknowledge Misha at all. Only us and Clockie spoke to the boy. In return, Clockie is only seen by us and Misha as well. So that’s just strange.

For a moment I wonder if Misha is actually like.. a ghost of sorts and we’re just going insane seeing visions of people and cartoon characters everywhere. But that’s all stuff I shall find out later. Hopefully. If the story decides to answer my many concerns.

(originally written on 3/28)

#honkai star rail #sunday #aventurine #acheron #black swan #sparkle #gallagher #gameplay #rnsposts

[valeriefauxnom]

Euden's Disregard of Self - A Comprehensive Analysis

I think we all came to learn very, very quickly just how far and how often Euden will go to prioritize others over himself. So for this next rant-nalysis I'd like to address the dragon in the room of the most obvious of Euden's problems that serves as the core to most of the 'whys' he has his other problems. Consider this a sequel to part one of my completely unprompted deep-dives into Euden here!

In any case, yadda yadda, this is very long, here's a cut...

Ahem. Back to Euden. So, I'll start this off by noting that this is far from a new thing for Euden. One of the very first conversations in the game has Zethia commenting that perhaps the only reason she's good at healing magic is because Euden gives her 'so much practice'. To which I ask: so much practice how? Despite Euden occasionally being a bit mischievous and getting him and Zethia to sneak out of the castle, he's largely been confined to the castle and Sol Alberia at large. Either he had a strong tendency for clumsiness or otherwise is accident-prone, but darn. How much trouble can you find as a child prince in a castle?

Regardless of how, though, he has. And while it might've been innocent stupid fun back in childhood days, as a young adult, Euden hasn't exactly learned much.

Even as early as chapters 1 to 3, Euden makes it clear he can and will push himself beyond common sense would tell one to rest/stop, a thing that actively endangers his life.

This continues into events. All in all, Ranzal puts it quite succinctly himself in the very first event in describing his pattern of behavior:

I know early on, Euden was often ragged on for appearing to many as a generic do-gooder selfless hero, but I think he holds more interest than that, even before the whole identity crisis started getting underway.

Specifically, he's a deconstruction of what being an outrageously selfless person actually is and does to those around him. Even his behavior in his backstory essentially amounts to forsaking most all ambition in his life (though not letting himself be incompetent or a burden as that would be 'bad') as to try and preserve harmony among his family.

Again, though, present day Euden is quite the source of worry and panic for others. Gala Sarisse's story has him collapsing outright from likely overwork-induced illness. Once Cleo notices he's not keeping up the appearance he's perfectly fine, what does he do?

Is it A: Acknowledge he could use a breather B: Alert somebody that he feels faint or C: Spend his last conscious moments insisting nobody 'fuss' over him in the interest of morale? If you guessed C, you are unsurprisingly correct.

I think this is a nice segue into part of the reason why it's such a big problem for him and everyone else: it's bad enough he's so set on pushing himself so hard for everyone 24/7/365, he desperately tries to pretend he has no problems because of it. He conceals infirmity, claims he's fine when he clearly isn't, pushing himself even further beyond just in that extra effort to refuse to show weakness.

Like sister, like brother, as a very similar scenario pops up in Gala Luca's story. Every single human in the Halidom is incapacitated and only getting worse. It's far from mere personal weakness at that point. Surely that would justify a bit of rest now that you can soothe the self loathing that you're being weak? If nobody else can fight whatever is going on, why do you think you can?

And yet, Cleo quickly needs to resort to threats to physically stop him from attempting to join combat, much less even sitting up. Mitsuhide gets an honorable mention in that she convinces half the castle before Euden finds out to give him a metaphorical heart attack solely just to try and take care of himself more and be more selfish.

All in all, I think it explains a great deal of the more excess protectiveness the group has for Euden. Aside from being their leader, he's well-established that he's not going to take care of or protect himself adequately, and so they are forced to pick up the slack to keep him alive and well. I believe me or my friend once called them his minders, and yeah. That about sums it up. That and 'living child leashes for the toddler who keeps gunning for the antifreeze'.

Because when he's left to his own devices, even things as simple as trying to peel vegetables turns into orders from him to rest before he faints of blood loss. He just does not stop at any reasonable point regardless if his task is peeling veggies or saving a village.

He's a veritable menace to himself, and the others know it. Whether it's Euden throwing himself into blows for others or trying to keep every emotion he thinks isn't fitting for a leader locked down tight, Euden cannot, for the life of him, save himself. That's where they have to constantly step in to create this pseudo-Ouroboros: Euden saves them, they save him, and they can only hope that they can do so in time so the snake keeps on spinning in a loop.

And he, on some level, seems to understand his flaws and the dangers they hold. He sometimes seems like he's actively preparing the others for his own death, even in chapter six when he's telling Notte to get ready to flee with the civilians, or chapter 10 where he stresses that the fight is getting serious and might take real sacrifices including himself. Then there's exchanges like this which pop up in places like Elias' story of all places.

It's clear he more views himself as the latter in his understanding of royalty. He's coldly resigned about being 'bricks' to the future, both of his family and nation, and treats himself accordingly. In Euden's view, it's more important to use his life to protect others rather than himself.

All this is a lot of hullabaloo detailing the exact lack of self-respect and willingness to take care of himself in any capacity, but I'm also going to draw attention to how his friends react to this.

While they largely have thrown up their hands in trying to get Euden to change his selfless habits and have resigned themselves to being damage control and voices of reason, they do still understand and treat Euden's behavior as a problem.

I think it's one of the smaller underlying threads in the main story, for instance, especially after Euden forcibly calls attention to just how destructive and dangerous his tendencies are after 14 and doubly so after 15 with lines like this.

Heck, even before they had some understanding, as when Euden first starts to fold to Morsayati's offer to possess him Ranzal accuses him of "losing the last damn marble rolling around [his] head". Which. last. I dunno, to me it implies some understanding that Euden isn't exactly 'healthy' in mindset, since the typical phrase is 'lost your marbles'. Euden understands, too, he's not exactly doing the best, judging by his 'I'm fine...for now. It's the best I can do' comment. And what do they do with this?

We immediately see Ranzal, in chapter 17, contemplating leaving the party, not for good old JRPG party fight reasons born of misunderstandings and miscommunication, but because he understands how much everyone is piling on Euden's plate. So much, in fact, he's growing worried the plate will break even more than it already has started to fracture, and he hopes removing the burdens he's placing on Euden would ease the pressure.

Chapter 18, of course, brings Luca's scene with Euden. What's the main focus of that conversation, (questionably winter-ready clothes aside)? Trying to insist to Euden that he is allowed to not be 100% all the time, and encouraging him to rely on them. To be a bit more invested in pursuing more personal desires aside from 'saving others'.

Even in chapter 19, Chelle steps up to the plate in this scene:

Chelle, spymaster always looking for the truth and details, understands well enough even in their short time close together that Euden was teetering on a precipice from which there might not be a return to offer him a last-minute out. She's concerned enough about whatever behaviors he's been exhibiting on the side or those others shared that she's offering to throw away the answer to a subject of great interest and one they've spent valuable time and difficulty on reaching this point.

This is getting way too long already even if I said this would be comprehensive, so I'll try to wrap it up here soon. Still, I think it's interesting how a not-insubstantial amount of time was devoted to showing the darker consequences of Euden's personality and slowly trying to give him therapy.

As a last note, I'd like to point to the JP only story writers' (there were 3!) interview here. Standard disclaimer I do not understand Japanese and am relying on translation, but I think this is pretty clear cut in this instance given the consistency and clarity of the themes they are discussing.

In it, writer Muneyuki states: "...I was conscious of writing a story about Eudiel (Euden's JP name), who realizes that even though he lost his title as a prince, he was still loved by everyone and seen as a person." and later that "I hoped that users would sympathize with and be encouraged by the sight of Eudiel starting again as a 'human' instead of a prince."

While it's not quite directly related to the essay before it, I do think it shares a connection to my points above. For all of his life, Euden has taught to put others above himself, whether it be for friends, his country, or his family. He's cultivated a huge mess of tangled issues about how he derives his own self worth in others, the 'duty' to be as perfect a leader possible to live up to his luminaries, and generally be the face and heart of a ragtag group of people trying to pull together a country in war. During the story, all that shatters as one piece of glass hits several of these tangled knots in one go.

Now he had to start finding an answer for who he is aside from his relations to others, what he wants. An identity aside from being a prince in service to others. Maybe, if I'm stretching, something beyond his compulsory self-sacrificial tendencies potentially sowed and wrought by virtue of being the selfless part of a god's heart. He's having to develop into his own person who can live for himself.

And that's the crux of his issues that were ultimately a surprise to no one. But they stuck around to protect and guide as they ever-so-slowly tried to encourage him to that better frame of mind and behavior because they cared. In essence: yet another of Dragalia's themes was 'the slow burn of trying to get someone recklessly self-destructive to stop and live for himself'.

In short short: Dragalia is about self care and learning to love yourself. It's just too bad it takes so much to get there, but I suppose to get to a peak there's a long steep climb, huh?

#Yurius: “You must put your retainers through a significant amount of anguish” YES #Euden in the epilogue: “Oh I'm nobody special just some fellow-” DON'T YOU START THIS AGAIN #Jokes aside Euden's very good at appearing simple but he's very much the iceberg picture only showing a bit of himself as the rest lurks. #I don't recall being particularly struck by him in any way when Dragalia was first getting off the ground. But then. Something clicked. #dragalia analysis #dragalia lost #character analysis

[republicsecurity]

A Summary of Texts

We are going to provide a short summary of the stories and texts that have so far appeared on this blog. Choose what you want to know about the Republic and its Security Forces.

Description and Reports

Neuro-Based Conditioning: Enhancing Minds, Elevating Lives

Discover the intricate world of neuro-based conditioning utilized by organizations like the Nursing Corps, Life Guards, Security Forces, and Enviro Corps. hese alterations in personality traits are integral to the process, fostering qualities like resilience and adherence to protocols. As you explore the potential benefits, weigh them against the side effects, including temporary shifts in beliefs and fatigue.

Imagined Communion: A Paramedic Remembrance Ceremony

"Imagined Communion" paints a vivid picture of paramedic remembrance ceremonies, where red-clad figures gather in unity.

"Unseen Communion" reveals a hidden paramedic ceremony, shielded from public view. Paramedics, veiled by helmets with advanced displays, experience a deeply personal multimedia show, evoking their commitment and shared bond. The ceremony culminates in silent acts of reverence, showcasing the humanity beneath the armor.

The juxtaposition of public facade and private experience highlights the dual purpose of these ceremonies. For civilians, it's a polished spectacle; for paramedics, an intimate journey through loss and camaraderie.

Civic Religion

In the Paramedic Corps, revered figures known as Saints are venerated, embodying ideals of healing, empathy, compassion, and courage. These figures, notably St. Raphael, St. Paisios, St. Camillus, and St. Michael, form a unique civil religion that intertwines duty, service, and spirituality. Celebrations honoring these Saints are marked by enduring traditions, including symbolic endurance marches and spirited competitions, reinforcing paramedics' shared identity and mission.

Conditioned to LOVE

The Republic's intensive conditioning processes in security organizations have led to a notable shift in sexual preferences, often favoring same-gender attraction. Despite initial surprise, most conscripts express contentment with their evolved sexual preferences, finding a sense of harmony and self-discovery. Discussions about romantic affiliations have become normal, and individuals often embrace their altered desires, appreciating the 'strong and silent' type.

(y)our son, (y)our para

In a meticulously orchestrated event, paramedic conscripts reunite with their families, highlighting the intersection of personal emotion and institutional control. The paramedics, stripped of their individuality through uniformity and conditioning, momentarily revert to their birth names, emphasizing the regimented nature of their identities.

The carefully curated reunions serve as controlled escapades into normalcy, allowing families to reconnect under the watchful eye of the paramedic corps. These gatherings, veiled in emotional warmth, ultimately serve the purpose of preserving the paramedics' unwavering dedication and discipline.

Simulation (f)or Reality

A paramedic equipped with advanced armor suits and a Heads-Up Display (HUD), is prepared for an emergency call. When the call arrives, they respond swiftly, relying on the real-time information provided by their HUD to treat a supposed accident victim. The protagonist and their partner efficiently stabilize the patient, utilizing the assistance of an AI assistant integrated into their suits. But there is more.

Tales from the Forces

All dressed up for the Show

As JAK5Z and BGS25 march together, JAK5Z admires BGS25's impressive armor suit, expressing his desire for one like it. BGS25 explains the suit's complexities, mentioning the required training and conditioning, both physically and mentally. He elaborates on the invasive neural-psychological training, emphasizing the suit's role in providing real-time feedback and optimizing performance. During their march, they encounter a civilian family, showcasing the public's fascination and respect for paramedics in their specialized gear.

Poetry and Song

Marching Song

Helmet on my head, visor before face, AI's voice in my ear, guiding my pace, Chow in the stomach, fuel for the soul,

In a paramilitary setting, paramedics and cadets engage in marching competitions, covering impressive distances in full armor suits. The text features a song sung during these marches, describing the experiences and emotions associated with wearing the uniform.

Through this song, the paramedics find solace and identity, reclaiming control amidst imposed uniformity. BGS25, the experienced paramedic, imparts the song's deeper meaning to the cadet, emphasizing the shared experiences and bonds that transcend the physical aspects of the uniform.

Our Heroes

Inside the Lives of Rescue Corps Helicopter Crews

Dive into the thrilling world of the Rescue Corps helicopter crews as our intrepid reporter takes you behind the scenes. Clad in their iconic red flightsuits and sporting shaved heads, they are the embodiment of dedication and discipline. Their stories reveal a commitment that goes beyond the ordinary, shaped by intensive conditioning, rigorous training, and unique paths to becoming essential heroes in the Rescue Corps.

Meet the Cool and Courageous C3GMR: Your Guide to the Ultimate SAR Drone Pilot Adventure!

Step into the exhilarating world of C3GMR, a SAR drone pilot in the Rescue Corps, where every moment is charged with adrenaline and dedication. With a physique that turns heads and a heart of gold, C3GMR embodies heroism both inside and out. Clad in the iconic red uniform, he navigates the challenges of his role with skill and precision, showcasing his commitment to saving lives. While his muscles may be under lock and key due to Corps rules, his passion for service knows no bounds. Beyond the drone controls, C3GMR reveals his journey from a small town to the prestigious E-3 designation, a testament to his dedication. Amidst codes and designations, love finds its way into his heart, connecting him with a fellow conscript in a tale of shared paths and deep affection.

Propaganda and Media

"'I'm doing my part"

The video opens with an upbeat atmosphere in a bustling city. The narrator emphasizes the importance of unity and community in society. The focus shifts to paramedics, showcasing their heroic efforts in various situations. The video promotes diversity among paramedics, emphasizing that they serve everyone regardless of differences. The message encourages viewers to join the cause, uniting with paramedics to make a difference. The video concludes with a powerful visual of paramedics and citizens standing together.

[earthbeamingwradiance]

I don't really have critical things to say about today's Les Mis Letters, but it did remind me of a few quotes I've pulled from other texts, so I will drop them into the tag with the caveat that I am not an expert in any of these fields lol. I am but a lowly fiction writer who reads queer theory and care ethics stuff for fun and in an effort to find more meaning & understanding in my own worldview/work.

Let's start with Enjolras's speech, under the cut.

“It is a bad moment to pronounce the word love. No matter, I do pronounce it. And I glorify it. Love, the future is thine. Death, I make use of thee, but I hate thee. Citizens, in the future there will be neither darkness nor thunderbolts; neither ferocious ignorance, nor bloody retaliation. As there will be no more Satan, there will be no more Michael. In the future no one will kill any one else, the earth will beam with radiance, the human race will love. The day will come, citizens, when all will be concord, harmony, light, joy and life; it will come, and it is in order that it may come that we are about to die.”

Obviously we're all emotionally compromised by "Love, the future is thine," but I've been thinking about this post from everyonewasabird about how it's a conversation they're all having—to quote the post, "Revolutions are an act of love, and love is why they’re here."

Now, anyone who knows me well will know that I think a lot about the ethics of care, something my philosopher sibling put me onto. I've recently been reading Trans Care by Hil Malatino, which is free to read through the University of Minnesota website.

To pull from the book's own blurb, "Trans Care is a critical intervention in how care labor and care ethics have been thought, arguing that dominant modes of conceiving and critiquing the politics and distribution of care entrench normative and cis-centric familial structures and gendered arrangements. A serious consideration of trans survival and flourishing requires a radical rethinking of how care operates."

I am drawn particularly to these series of sentences:

"To stand on the right side of history is to care. To be committed to social justice is to care. Self-care is imperative for those in the political trenches of the left—we spend so much time caring for others we forget to care about ourselves, but we can’t care for others effectively if we don’t attend to our own needs sometimes. Self-care is warfare, after all, as Audre Lorde (1988) reminds us. We actively care for folks—as social workers, sex workers, teachers, parents, service workers, nurses, nonprofit hustlers—but we also care about others in the abstract. We are able to pragmatically prioritize the greater good; we are not, ostensibly, wholly dominated by the vicious id of self-interest. We are able to place ourselves in another’s shoes: to care is to empathize enough to grasp and service the needs of another, and to do so willingly."

Which obviously led me to look up the Lorde quote—from the epilogue of A Burst of Light

“Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.”

I think it's interesting to contrast "self-care as warfare in a world which is actively hostile to the existence/survival of many" with "it is in order that it may come that we are about to die." I could go down a whole rabbit hole about martyrdom here, but I'll spare you, and lead you onto hope instead.

I've also been reading Cruising Utopia: The Then and There of Queer Futurity by José Esteban Muñoz. I must be clear that I have barely skimmed the surface of queer futurity in my own reading, but as someone who read the phrase "Love, the future is thine" as an impressionable teenager, the version of hope that is essential to Muñoz's futurity...resonates deeply.

"Queerness is essentially about the rejection of a here and now and an insistence on potentiality or concrete possibility for another world."

Much of the introduction of Cruising Utopia discusses the thinkings of philosopher Ernst Bloch, who talks about hope as a necessary step of striving for utopia—this, I think, would resonate with Enjolras as well.

"Unlike possibility, a thing that simply might happen, a potentiality is a certain mode of nonbeing that is eminent, a thing that is present but not actually existing in the present tense. ... Bloch would posit that such utopian feelings can and regularly will be disappointed. They are nonetheless indispensable to the act of imaging transformation ... As Bloch would insist, hope can be disappointed. But such disappointment needs to be risked if certain impasses are to be resisted."

I wish I had something intelligent to say to tie all my thoughts about these quotes together...since this is my post, allow me to fumble for a moment in search of a neat bow.

Love, the future is thine—there exists a future, though it may be impossible to reach, in which we care, willingly. Hope is a striving for this future. And while hope may be disappointed—it is still a necessary step to bring this future into fruition.

Enjolras, in this speech, rejects the here and now. He may be Justice, now. But that's not the future he's striving for. There is, for Enjolras, a concrete possibility of a future in which he doesn't need to be Justice.

Love (care), the future is thine.

He hopes.

#les mis #les mis letters #lm 4.12.8 #enjolras #victor hugo #long post #sorry

[jainaism]

Prejudice towards Jaina №5356 "She switches several times from i hate the horde to it's garrosh to i hate the horde"

Jaina doesn't forgive the horde neither after the explosion of Theramore, nor after the trial of Garrosh.

“You do not know my heart anymore, Thrall,” she said. “I am no butcher—but I will no longer call for peace at any cost. The Horde you do not lead is dangerous and must be challenged at every turn—and defeated. Then, perhaps, there can be peace. But not before.” I’m not what I was—I don’t burn for vengeance anymore. But… neither am I the woman who longed so much for harmony between the Horde and the Alliance. There… can’t be harmony, Kalec. Not while Garrosh leads the Horde, not after what he has done. I don’t believe peace is the answer anymore. - tow

When she's asked to become a leader of Kirin Tor, Jaina doesn’t know what to do, since it's extremely difficult to be neutral in this situation, but she agrees, while fighting her anger every day.

What if the Horde killed your friends? Your family? Destroyed everything your had. Could you maintain your conviction even then? To be honest, I struggle. Every. Day. Every day, the hard decisions. Every night… the nightmares. But I have a responsibility to preserve the Kirin Tor. - Jaina, mop

Nobody dislikes Garrosh more than me. I wrestle with my anger every day. Anduin, you know more than anyone, it's important to separate the Horde from its people. The Sunreavers still operate within this city. Alliance and Horde work together.  As long as we stay above the war, then there's hope for the world as a whole.  I see our city as a beacon of light, showing the way. If we can trust one another here, then there's hope for the rest of the world. - Jaina, mop.

However, despite this, the sunreavers have a different opinion. They help the horde steal the divine bell from Darnassus, another artifact that could set off a hundred Theramors across the Azeroth. Jaina finds out about it, it enrages her, she losts the shit. That's where her patience ends, and she's learned her lesson.

For too long, I have toiled to mend fences between Alliance and Horde. Time and time again, I've given the Horde the benefit of the doubt - and time and time again, they stab me in the back. I resude to be betrayed again! If the hode intends to use the Kirin Tor as a weapon against the alliance, then they have no place in Dalaran. I've decided. Certain members of the Kirin-Tor have put their allegiance to the Horde above the order, and I will NOT tolerate it. This is nothing short of a betrayal. - Jaina, mop.

The Kirin Tor was betrayed from within. I've handled the situation. You're fooling yourself. Once Horde, always Horde. I see that now. - Jaina, mop.

This has been the worst year of my life: Theramore, destroyed. And a betrayal from within the Kirin Tor. The lesson is clear. From here on out, I'm taking the initiative. - Jaina, mop.

Next, there is a skirmish between the horde and alliance and zandalari. Jaina orders the alliance to switch from the horde to the trolls, and when she and Lor-Themar decide to part peacefully, Vereesa remains unhappy, and Jaina in the one who discourages her ardor, saying that "this battle will not bring her husband back."

During the siege, Jaina wants to first make Garrosh suffer and then kill him, while she just proposes to dismantle the horde, because she saw the possibility of another betrayal. However, Varian is against this, and Jaina, although disappointed, agrees to make peace with the horde.

During Garrosh's trial, Jaina wants him to receive the punishment he deserves, but Kalecgos reproaches her for this and is afraid that after this she will not stop. This upsets Jaina because she has become very attached to him - and mind you, when he was in trouble, she helped him no matter what, and he is just an asshole here. When Tyrande asks her if she would become the same as the horde if she washed away Orgrimmar, Jaina replies that the horde is on Garrosh. Because she keep separeting the horde and its people from Garrosh.

At the end of the book, she is seriously injured, and the Red Crane gives her and everyone else a blessing (temporary), thanks to which she feels herself calm and silently reconciles with Thrall, although they do not become friends again. She doesn't forgive the horde, but also she doesn't see every single orc or elf as pure evil.

Conclusion: “the horde is not garrosh,” Jaina thought exactly that throughout the entire MoP, the only difference being that she stopped giving the horde a “second chance” and began to see it for what it really is. While she wants to kill Garrosh, she despises the rest of the horde, continues to blame it for the destruction of Theramore, does not trust it, punishes traitors, etc, but at the same time she goes into negotiations, stops Vereesa from the battle and only offers dismentle the horde, and not kill every single orc. She releases the elves and prisons to Silvermoon. Jaina helps the horde player, albeit reluctantly, strengthen the ring, and then runs along the broken shore with the alliance and the horde. And everything was fine until the horde betrayed the alliance again, which caused another wave of indignation from Jaina. She didn't forgive the horde then, keep blame them for Theramore and mistrust them because of it, but doesn't want to kill them all as she wanted to kill Garrosh.

The only problem here writing. This story is not well written because Golden sucks, making Jaina too soft, like in dumb Disney movies, but generally acceptable.

#jaina proudmoore #world of warcraft #warcraft #jaina #jaina proudmoore daily #alliance #wow #kalecgos #jaina's characteristic

[denimbex1986]

'Even though the 2023 production "All of Us Strangers" could not be released in our country, it fascinated festival lovers. Not being nominated for an Oscar created a completely different problem. Now, let's take a look at this movie, which was appreciated by critics, won awards and won the hearts of movie lovers.

For those who don't know, the movie 'All of Us Strangers', directed by Andrew Haigh and starring Andrew Scott and Paul Mescal, follows the story of a gay couple.

Adam (Andrew Scott) is a lonely television screenwriter living an isolated life in London . The man encounters his drunk neighbor Harry (Paul Mescal) and although he does not want to host him at his home, he eventually cannot resist Harry's insistence and invites him inside. The man meets with the ghosts of his family and talks about the traumatic events he experienced in the past. As her relationship with Harry progresses, they experience various events and begin to live their lives together. But eventually, she comes to terms with Harry's death and is forced to sever ties with her reality. His family's ghosts also guide him in this process. After accepting Harry's death, Adam embraces his spirit and they sleep peacefully together. Accompanied by music , they disappear in a beam of light and the screen goes black.

Scott plays Adam, a screenwriter who is struggling with a script inspired by his past and things haven't been going so well for him lately.

At first glance, the film focuses on Adam's face reflected in the windows of the flat in the London twilight. Adam dives into the music of his childhood and rummages through a box of family treasures that provide a link to the distant past. However, he seems cut off from the world - in the echoey, tidy but cold flat, an almost empty Ballardian tower block, something that further emphasizes his loneliness.

A tender relationship begins to blossom between the man and his neighbor Harry (the building's only other occupant).

During a research visit for a screenplay he is writing, Adam travels to his childhood home of suburban Dorking. There Adam encounters his deceased parents (Claire Foy and Jamie Bell), unchanged, unaged, and exactly as they were when they died 30 years ago. While Scott provides an emotional balance by keeping the supernatural elements of the story in place, the entire cast accompanies him in this harmony.

As the bond between Adam and Harry grows stronger into the possibility of a future together, Adam is continually drawn back into the past, into the unresolved trauma of his childhood.

Time doesn't actually heal all wounds. Instead, it makes them deeper and more paralyzing. The man cannot rewrite the moment his parents were killed in a car crash. But he can get to know them as an adult gay man , not as a bullied and beaten child .

The excellent, highly sensitive script is adapted from the novel Strangers (1987) by Japanese author Taichi Yamada.

The Japanese author's book was translated into Turkish under the name 'A Summer with Foreigners'. The 2023 movie is not the first adaptation of the book. The first film was Nobuhiko Obayashi's 1988 The Discarnates. But Haigh has put his own stamp on the story.

The use of his real childhood home as a location for scenes between Adam and his parents emphasizes the emotional connection between the director and the material.

There are also clues that connect this film to director Haigh's previous works: It links to his second feature, the gay romance Weekend. At the same time, lives are turned upside down with the discovery of a lost lover's body preserved in ice, with a window into the past and the feeling of the cycle of time, as in 45 Years.

We can guarantee that you won't be able to get over the heartbreaking emotional impact of the movie upon your first watch.

We are among those who think that watching the movie once is not enough to fully understand it. The harmony of the music composed by Emilie Levienaise-Farrouch with the complexity of the sound further strengthens the meaning of the film. The mastery of Jonathan Alberts' fluid editing guides us, with the lightest of touches, between parallel timelines and through a cityscape filled with simultaneous moments in Adam's life. So, we can say that the success of the film is a product of collective work.'

#The Discarnates #Andrew Haigh #All of Us Strangers #Andrew Scott #Paul Mescal #Claire Foy #Jamie Bell #Taichi Yamada #Strangers #Jonathan Alberts #Emilie Levienaise-Farrouch

[freedomarrow]

Succession [drabble]

There was a time when the banner of Daein fluttered in the winds, carried both by the harsh, unforgiving gales that called his homeland their own, and the proud wings of Daein’s Dracoknights as they looked to the horizon from on high, while the cavalry and infantry below marched in perfect synchronization and harmony — ready for battle, for glory, for victory and death, all in service of their country.

Leonardo only ever saw it once; when he was nine, his father took him to show him his destiny. He was a noble, after all — one obligated and expected to give it his all for the good of the motherland, and he was being prepared for this role since his earliest days. He saw it all… The flags and banners, carrying the name and pride of his country. The black armor on every knight, glistening in the sun. The swords and spears prepared, sharpened, polished, ready to fight for that which must be defended. The majestic wyverns, floating in the air above him, as though the wind itself, too, was at Daein’s command. Father’s horse, Goldmane, with whom he loved to play and with whom he learned to ride already as a little boy, dressed in the beautiful garments befitting the mount of His Majesty’s handpicked paladin.

Only once did he have a chance to witness it, but on an impressionable boy, aware that this was his future, it left a mark never to be forgotten.

Four years later, the Mad King summoned his army to war. A year still passed and it was gone.

Scattered on the winds, lost in the fields of Crimea’s righteous blades as they protected the freedom they deserved. Lost in the name of, as he would later learn, nothing, for they and their valiance were used in the name of madness and greed, little more. Swords broken, shields shattered, his father and Goldmane, too, lost on some battlefield or other, no longer important and relevant to anyone. It was as though they never mattered to begin with.

History would only ever remember them as villains, invaders, those who trampled upon the rights of others. Yes, they too left behind grieving wives, orphaned children and a shattered nation — but those do not matter, do they. Who cares about the bad guys, after all. And it was a reality that Leonardo found he had simply resigned himself to.

It is not as though he ever expected or demanded apologies, sympathy and compassion from others, but perhaps somewhere deep down, it hurt to know that he did not even have the right. He never allowed himself to think even that much, though. It was not until after the Dawn Brigade became a cornerstone of the newly reborn Daein army and he truly began to reclaim the value of his life that he forgot existed, that he finally began to let his thoughts give voice to his grievances and frustrations — and questions on what comes next, now that he knows the “next” will, indeed, have a chance to happen.

What is the point of glory if it only brings ruin? What is the point of reaching for the skies if it only leads you to crash to the ground?

Today, a decorative dagger with the family crest on its hilt rests in a drawer in his dorm room, seen by few, but never forgotten. It is the main keepsake he still owns - Leonardo has preserved little else of his past life. Family riches and belongings were, naturally, stolen by the Begnion army, and though some of it — as well as the family mansion — was regained via reparations, he donated a lot of the former to the Daein army reconstruction effort and the latter… is still a little difficult to think about. Perhaps he will sell it and settle down elsewhere, where ghosts of the past will not plague his thoughts. Or maybe he will eventually find it in him to return to them like a good son, a good brother, a good young master.

When he is certain no one would come to visit or bother him, he will sometimes take the dagger out of the drawer and simply look at it for a while in silence, wishing his father would answer his questions. His fingers will gently rub against the high quality silver blade, and he will close his eyes and listen, hoping to hear his voice, heed his advice — only to then realize that he was deluding himself, and whatever words he heard were actually his own.

In the end, however, he had no right to expect anything else. Many perished, young and old alike,

but it is especially many of the former who remain. The nobility, experience, tradition, foundations — all of that, first and foremost, was swept away during those years of tragedy. (And it makes sense, from the war point of view. That, too, is how you kill a nation.) 

(This is what they deserved.)

(Is this what they deserved?)

What remains are those who had seen either too many winters to be called to arms, or too few — provided they made it through said winters to begin with, which especially during the occupation was not a given — and who escaped the work camps, the fate of collateral damage, and the malice of a bored enemy soldier to whom the people of Daein were equal to livestock. As well as a couple lucky people like himself, who fought and made it out. It is their task, now — these children, ready or not, are the people who will shape Daein’s future.

The thought that this is up to the likes of him is sobering and terrifying — and refreshing, too, in a way. They get to decide, now. They can choose what they do, how they fight and who they hate.

Today, he studies and trains for the future in a foreign land far away from home, a land where the fields were not burned, schools were not destroyed, and a place where the less fortunate can come to still continue hoping for a future. Fate saw it fit to place him here and fill his new world with adventures, missions and new companions; one of whom happens to be a gentle, serene mare, reminiscent of the one that accompanied his happiest days - the main difference being the moonlit color of her mane and tail, rather than the suntouched tone that Goldmane sported. In her honor, Leonardo named his new friend Silvermane.

She was somewhat neglected and not in the best of conditions when he first brought her to the monastery. Small wonder, what with her having been wrestled from the hands of brigands, who cared nothing about her health and well-being and treated her as little more than another trophy. When no owner came forward, Leonardo volunteered to take care of her, having sensed the first thread of connection forming between him and the horse from the start. He has taken care of her ever since — feeding her properly once again, turning her shaggy coat beautiful and glistening, and healing her emotional wounds that she could not speak of, but sustained nevertheless. He restored her glory and pride by reminding her that she matters, and made it so that she once again walked with her head held high.

And yet, for a long time, he failed to realize just why and how it was so important for him as well, until Silvermane himself explained to him in her own, wordless way, that she was not the only one being healed through this process. For it was when she first placed her forehead against his chest in a silent request for an embrace, that he made the realization — 

he looked in her eyes, and he saw himself, with his father and brother standing behind him, their hands on his shoulders, smiling with pride and faith.

And today, months later, it is as he sits atop her back, with Lughnasadh in one hand and the reins in the other, that he finds himself looking up to the sky while the gentle wind of Fódlan’s plains ruffles his hair, and he smiles lightly.

I will keep going, always and forever, and so will Daein along with me.

———

Leonardo has mastered: Bow Knight.

#【 i have my orders ⁎ ic 】 #【 i am no stranger to loneliness ⁎ drabble 】 #((yes I know Bow Knight does not require a drabble but I still wanted to ramble about it)) #((because I HC that his father and brother were Bow Paladins who perished in Ashnard's final battle)) #((so Leonardo has some Feelings here)) #((anyway wahoo enjoy whatever this is))

[hometownrockstar]

hello boss i know you’ve mentioned honkai star rail a bit and i just downloaded it the other day but my stupid ass forgot to read all the lore stuff 😭 if you’re feeling up to it would you mayhaps give me a teeny rundown… at least for the general stuff hehe. hope you’re having a good one!

:) hi! umm lore in star rail might be harder to summarize bc its like bunch of different factions/planets with their own lore, rather than it being one world with a central story lore u know? but basically there's the aeons who are like gods of certain paths, those are important to specific factions except the Preservation didnt show up much in belobog lol, belobog's deal is they are a planet under eternal winter cause of a stellaron, stellaron's are just like a phenomenon that causes bad things to happen its very vague in the game but you the main character have one in your heart cause kafka put it there. Xianzhou is a fleet of six ships (you visit only the Luofu in the game) who follow the Hunt because they are hunting down creations of the Abundance who are immortal because their unmitigated growth is bad, also the Xianzhou is made of immortals cause they were blessed by the Abundance at first but then realized immortality sucks cause it makes them lose their minds and grow leaves so theyre like trying to fix their mistakes by destroying the Abundance instead. then on february 5th in real life we're going to Penacony which was a prison planet run by the IPC (space amazon) but now its a dream resort place run by the family, who follow the Harmony. sunday is there :) we don't know much abt them yet cause theyre not out. if u need more then in the database section of the esc menu, u can read about the factions!

[immerlein]

hello ms immerlein, hope you're doing well. i'm a simple inquirer into the orthodox church and i wanted to ask if you could go into detail about what marriage is, in the faith. my boyfriend is the type who thinks "why can't we just get married at a courthouse?" but because having a wedding is important to me, he'd ultimately like to go with a 'proper' one. i'm glad that he cares about me enough to allow me to make the decision, but i don't know how to convince him that marriage is indeed something sacred. ideally i'd want to have our wedding at an orthodox parish, but as he isn't (yet, maybe sooner or later) a christian i'm content with waiting

Hi there :)

Thanks for your question; it's great to hear your boyfriend respects your feelings on something as important as this. I will say, though, that you might have a hard or impossible time getting married to a non-Christian in an Orthodox church, so you would need to discuss it with a priest. By the way you've phrased your ask you do seem to know that, but just clarifying in case :) I agree that marriage is sacred and a very beautiful mystery of the Church. It is taken seriously, entered into seriously, and only broken under the most serious of circumstances (the Church allows remarriage, with conditions). The whole idea is that you marry to be "companions on the journey from earth to heaven" (St John Chrysostom) and "attain holiness". "The purpose of marriage is to unite two persons into a bond of love for their mutual companionship, support, enjoyment, and fulfillment. While the couple, on their own, already is a family, giving birth to and nurturing children is an important purpose of marriage." - goarch.org

I'm going to include some other quotes from Saints/Church Fathers/theologians that I think speak to the theology of marriage better than my own words could.

Marriage is a sacrament and a state of grace: “Marriage is not only a state of nature but a state of grace. Married life, no less than the life of a monk, is a special vocation, requiring a particular gift or charisma from the Holy Spirit; and this gift is conferred in the sacrament of Holy Matrimony.” (Ware, Timothy (1993-04-29). The Orthodox Church)

“Marriage is the key of moderation and harmony of desires, the seal of a deep friendship… United in the flesh, one spirit, they urge each other on by the good of their mutual love. For marriage does not remove God, but brings all closer to Him, for it is God Himself Who draws us to it.” - Saint Gregory the Theologian

Elder Aimilianos of Simonos Petros Monastery on Mt. Athos wrote: “When two people get married, it’s as if they're saying: Together we will go forward, hand in hand, through good times and bad. We will have dark hours, hours of sorrow filled with burdens, monotonous hours. But in the depths of the night, we continue to believe in the sun and the light.”

"There are two misunderstandings about marriage which should be rejected in Orthodox dogmatic theology. One is that marriage exists for the sole purpose of procreation...is has never been a teaching of the Church. On the contrary, according to St John Chrysostom, among the two reasons for which marriage was instituted,  it is the first reason which is the most important: 'as for procreation, it is not required absolutely by marriage...’ In fact, in Orthodox understanding, the goal of marriage is that two should become one, in the image of the Holy Trinity, Whose three Persons are essentially united in love... In the Orthodox Church, there is no understanding of sexual union as something unclean or unholy. This becomes clear when one reads the following prayers from the Orthodox rite of Marriage: 'Bless their marriage, and vouchsafe unto these Thy servants ... chastity, mutual love in the bond of peace ... Preserve their bed unassailed ... Cause their marriage to be honourable. Preserve their bed blameless. Mercifully grant that they may live together in purity .. :. Sexual life is therefore considered compatible with 'purity' and 'chastity', the latter being, of course, not an abstinence from intercourse but rather a sexual life that is liberated from what became its characteristic after the fall of Adam. The ultimate goal of marriage is the same as that of every other sacrament, deification of the human nature and union with Christ. This becomes possible only when marriage itself is transfigured and deified." - taken from the writing of Metropolitan Hilarion.

I hope this helps! Take care and all the best :)

#ask #marriage #orthodox

[lifeofkaze]

A Search for Balance

CHAPTER 5: REASON

Find the masterlist with all chapters of this story here, the previous chapter here, and the next one here.

Tagging: @samshogwarts

After Lizzie had left, Orion and Skye continued with their practice session but soon found that it was of little use. Having nothing better to do, they landed on the wooden stands surrounding the pitch; they were a lot sturdier than the rickety construction at Hogwarts, but Orion couldn’t help the touch of nostalgia as he and Skye sat down and talked.

“I really don’t know what’s gotten into her,” Skye said, plucking at the hem of her dark red jersey. “I mean, yeah, Liz is as ambitious as they come and it was her first time back on a broomstick, but so many mistakes? That ain’t like her at all.”

Orion sighed and pressed the tips of his fingers together, studying them as if they held the answers he was looking for. “I’m afraid my unexpected return has unsettled her more than I thought.”

Skye grimaced. “Yeah, probably wouldn’t have hurt to warn her.”

Orion knew Skye to act impulsively rather than thinking things through, but leaving Lizzie in the dark had been inconsiderate, even for her. “I didn’t mean to throw her off course. This is not how I wanted things to go.”

“I bet, mate,” Skye said. When she was done ripping the loose thread off her shirt, she added, “It’s really rocked her, you know?”

“Me coming back?”

“You leaving. Never saw her like that before. She was a proper shadow of herself for months, put everything she had into playing Quidditch just to cope. That’s what saved her, I think. It’s how she became so good so quickly.”

“She always had it in her.”

“Aye, that she did. Didn’t deserve to find her drive that way, though, did she? Honestly mate, why did you never even write to her?” 

Orion’s eyes wandered over the stitching of his gloves as he thought about Skye’s question. 

“I couldn’t,” he said eventually, his voice tinged with sadness. “I couldn’t tell anyone where I was. Not you, not Murphy, and not her. Especially not her.”

“Why did you leave anyway? You were playing for Montrose, for Merlin’s sake. Can’t get much better than that.” Skye looked around herself and a grin crossed her face. “Well, it obviously can, but you know what I mean.”

Orion considered how much to tell Skye. She was his friend, the only friend he had in Wigtown, and part of what he had once considered his family. He didn’t want to touch on things that weren’t meant to resurface from where he had buried them, but Skye had given him credit when no one else had. In her own way, she cared for him, so Orion decided to give her at least an insight into why he had chosen to leave everything he loved behind.

“I was happy when the Montrose Magpies asked me to play for them,” he said slowly. “I was excited, hopeful. Quidditch was my life, and it felt like the universe was granting me my biggest wish when I signed the contract.” 

A smile formed on his lips, but it was a bitter one. “Montrose was fantastical but different from how I had imagined it. Our team at school was harmonious, a family, my source of balance and pride. But Montrose…” Orion trailed off at the memory and shook his head. 

His first weeks in Montrose had been like a splash of cold water to the face. The tone on the pitch had been rough, patience and understanding rare. Even though Orion had made it to the Magpies’ line-up after a while, he had struggled with the pressure, more with every passing day. His inner balance had given way to a relentless strife for success, and before long, his performance had begun to lack, his burning enthusiasm for the sport he loved flickering and eventually blowing out.

“It was too much. Too much pressure, too much competition, too much… of everything. To preserve myself and my beliefs, I needed to get out. And that is what I did.”

Skye’s brow had furrowed while listening to him. Her tone was cautious when she spoke. “Mate, no offence, but… that ain’t Montrose, that’s the League. It’s not much different here. We don’t hold hands and make daisy crowns either.”

“I am aware,” Orion nodded. “Time and travel have left a lasting impact on my spirit. They made me grow from who I used to be into who I am now. I am not the same person who burned every bridge tying him to a life he didn’t want to lead anymore.” He looked at Skye with calm determination. “I have changed. I have grown. I’m ready to face my fight a second time.”    

“Good,” Skye said, rolling her eyes at Orion’s lengthy speech. “Otherwise, we’d both look proper stupid now.” 

Despite himself, Orion had to laugh. “That we would indeed.”

“Lizzie wasn’t the only one trying to find you after you left,” Skye said after a while. “Me, McNully… all of us did. Where have you been?” 

“An aimless spirit makes for aimless travel. I sought my purpose as much within myself as all over the world.”

“Smashing, but where have you been?”

A smile tugged at Orion’s lips at Skye’s impatience. “The longest I spent in the same place was my time in India.”

“India?” Skye asked and looked astounded. “How did you end up there?”

“The culture of India is rich, and the wisdom of its people inspiring,” Orion said evasively. “It made me feel like my head and heart were finally as balanced as they should be. I thought I had found my purpose.” 

“Sounds like there’s a ‘but’.”

Orion inclined his head. “No story is ever truly finished, I know that now. Our journey doesn’t end only because we wish it so.” 

Skye was rolling her eyes again, but Orion didn’t feel like telling her what had really held him in India; he’d sooner have forgotten it himself. 

“Things are seldom what they appear to be. I was forced to realise that what we want isn’t necessarily what our dreams have made it out to be. I knew what I really wanted was to go home. I missed this.” He indicated the pitch, the lush, perfectly trimmed grass, the goalposts flashing in the sun. The corners of his mouth twitched as he looked at Skye. “I even missed you a little bit. But most of all, I missed her.” 

For a moment, neither of them spoke. 

“Skye, you have always carried your heart on your sleeve. And yet, you kept the news of my return to yourself rather than sharing it with Lizzie. What was the reason for this?” Orion asked eventually. 

There were other things he wanted to know, but Orion didn’t dare to ask about them. It wasn’t his place to interrogate Skye about Lizzie’s engagement to Matthew McRae. It was good that she had found someone to mend the pieces of her broken heart. Orion wasn’t sure how to feel about it, but that wasn’t his place to question either.

Skye shrugged, not seeming to notice that Orion was lost in thought. “Never thought she’d be so hostile, honestly. A little mad, sure, but not like that. Would’ve expected her to scream at you - slap you maybe - and be done with it.”

Orion raised his eyebrows. “Charming prospects.”

“Can’t say you don’t deserve it,” Skye shrugged again. “But that reaction today? Screw her injury. Her mistakes had nothing to do with her wrist, I’d bet my granddad’s Shooting Star on it.” She bit her lower lip. “I really thought bringing back our team would do her good, help her focus again. Hope this won’t backfire on us.” 

“There’s no way of knowing what the future holds before its due time, but I have a feeling that our immediate fate is about to reveal itself,” Orion said and stood up as he saw Lizzie stepping out from beneath the stands. Skye and Orion mounted their brooms and flew down to meet her.

“Jameson,” Skye called out as soon as her feet hit the ground, “you good again?”

“Yes,” Lizzie said and nodded curtly. “Sorry for what I said earlier. It wasn’t my place to question you. It won’t happen again.” 

She only spoke to Skye, but when she briefly glanced in Orion’s direction, the look Lizzie gave him wasn’t exactly friendly, but not as furious as it had been either. 

“We’re part of the same team now, no use in arguing,” she said, and Orion could tell how much she was fighting with herself. “As long as we’re on this pitch, we’ll have to make the best of it, whether I like it or not. For the team.”

“For the team,” Skye nodded in agreement, visibly relieved at Lizzie’s change of heart.  

Putting her gear back on, Lizzie picked up her broomstick and the Quaffle lying next to it before turning to Skye with an expectant look.  

“Alright, captain, you’re on. What next?” 

#hphm #hogwarts mystery #harry potter hogwarts mystery #quidditch #orion amari #orion amari x mc #lizzie jameson #skye parkin #balance series #search for balance #sfb

[katz-cradle]

Next Gen Knights redesigns #3

Almost done with these lot haha,,, yeah

Personality Notes Below;

BETA/BUTTONS “COPPER KNIGHT” GEARS (Any Pronouns)

Child of Tinker Knight

“Button’s is a clueless robot makes sense when you think about how sheltered from the world they are, the only reason Copper Knight is even doing the knight thing was to learn more about the world. Despite being a robot Copper Knight is extremely emotional emulating crying at things that it considers too beautiful (such as…rocks.) and being very curious about everything, he’s very peaceful and klutzy around people constantly trying to befriend people or things though they were programed to be protective so if anything dangerous crossed them, she’ll go from 0 to 100 in a moment.”

HA-RIN “NIGHT KNIGHT” SWEETS (She/He)

Daughter of Black Knight & Mary Sweets

“Ha-Rin is always tired, due to this she always seems so drowsy and vacant no matter the situation. Night Knight is very family oriented that being the reason for him becoming a knight due to her father being one, plus it gets her body moving and might help her sleepiness (it does, somewhat) he mainly keeps to himself not really bothering people. Some people rarely even notice Night Knight due to how quiet she is and takes up so little space, but he’s a nice person to be around.”

PIPER “HARMONY KNIGHT” SQUIRE (They/It)

Child of Bard & Cooper

“Harmony Knight is very mysterious, nobody really knows much about them since they rarely they talk about it’s life. Piper is a klutz with a good-heart doing what they think is right, they’re pretty untrusting of most people making them rarely get along with other people and it’s always suspicious of everyone around them. It’s unknown why Harmony Knight became a knight, possibly due to trying to protect the valley but who knows really.”

OLLIE “CHRONICLER KNIGHT” DARLINGTON (He/Him)

Son of Prism Knight

“Ollie is a very brash and obsessive person who mainly thinks for himself, he’s mainly focused on history and preserving it at all costs it’s like that’s what he’s made for! Chronicler Knight mainly hides away in his room or in his and his groups personal base underground in a fallen tower, he’s not good with people at all it’s a surprise he even has friends in the first place. He blabbers on about things frequently and is very protective of his work rarely sharing it unless it’s his little “Order”, he frequently grabs anything that looks interesting or old from wandering travelers so it’s not a good thing to not keep your eyes on him because he’s a sneaky one.”

#kitty scribbles #shovel knight #fanchild #next gen #next gen knights #tinker knight fanchild #ngk; copper knight #black knight fanchild #black knight x mary sweets fanchild #ngk; night knight #bard x cooper fanchild #ngk; harmony knight #prism knight fanchild #ngk; chronicler knight #i love muted color palettes hehe