#karma principles

[adikkachannels]

Dharma and Karma: Scientific, Spiritual, and Practical Perspectives on Human Relationships and Ethics

Introduction  The Significance of Dharma and Karma in Shaping Human Ethics and Relationships Across Different Philosophies and Religions  Dharma and Karma are foundational concepts in Indian philosophy, deeply rooted in Vedic traditions and carried forward through Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. These ideas transcend religious boundaries and offer a universal framework for…

[khaoala]

❝Do we need to [know each other's names]? We'll forget it tomorrow morning anyway.❞

FIRST KANAPHAN as KANT and KHAOTUNG THANAWAT as BISON episode 1 of THE HEART KILLERS

[thepersonalwords]

How did I get 'IT'? - By crying, begging, yelping! - Any of this helping?

Fakeer Ishavardas

[anothermonikan]

never try to achieve The Nomad in Rain World, most stressful time of my fucking life (I did it tho :DD)

[astrovedawisdom]

Understand Sanatan Dharma: Your Ultimate Reading Guide to Core Hindu Texts

Introduction Sanatan Dharma, often referred to as Hinduism, is one of the world’s oldest and most diverse religious traditions. With an extensive collection of scriptures, philosophies, and practices, navigating its teachings can be overwhelming for beginners. This guide aims to provide a structured approach to understanding Sanatan Dharma through its key scriptures, recommended commentaries,…

[videoblogbyjacobo]

The 3 +1 Fundamental Laws of Karma stand as the pillars that govern the intricate workings of cause and effect in our universe. With unwavering precision, these laws dictate the consequences that arise from every action we take, shaping our destinies with profound significance. The first law, known as the Law of Cause and Effect, asserts that every deed we undertake carries an inherent consequence—be it positive or negative—that reverberates back to us with unyielding force. Inextricably linked to this principle is the second law: the Law of Creation. It elucidates how our thoughts and intentions possess an immense power capable of manifesting into reality, underscoring that what we sow in our minds inevitably blossoms into tangible existence. Watch video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PnKsHlW4Hbo

[mediumgayitalian]

He hears him four cabins away. At minimum.

The thing about Will is that he is not a sneaky person. He tries to be — gods does he ever try — but it is so antithetical to who he is as a person that it never works out. He breaks out into hives if he lies, for Hades’ sake. Sometimes even when he withholds the truth. It’s hilarious.

Anyways, he wakes Nico up.

He hears the cream of the opening window and shoved his face into a pillow. There’s a way to open them without so much as a peep — Piper knows how, and Percy, and probably ninety-two percent of the rest of camp — but Will, in all honesty, probably can’t even hear it, as high-pitched as it is. The scuffle of his shoes on the smooth obsidian walls are equally as loud, somehow, and the oof he lets out as he lands on the marble floors face-first echo all the way to the lake.

It’s a wonder the harpies haven’t come squawking, honestly. Or maybe good karma.

“Psst,” Will actually, genuinely hisses. “Psst, Nico. You up?”

“No,” Nico lies. “I am sleeping ever so peacefully and ignoring the obnoxious intruder of my space.”

“Well, get up.” His feet have started to tap. Nico smothers his stupid widening grin into his hand — it’s not cute, it’s not. It’s dumb and embarrassing and ridiculous. Gods. What a freaking theatre kid.

Nico peeks one eye open, and Will is standing, shirt on backwards, scratching his calf, staring at the faintly-glowing altar in the back corner. His pupils are dilated.

“I want ice cream.”

Nico does not, technically, have much to do tomorrow.

There’s training. But there’s always training, really, and also he went to Tartarus, so how much worse can it get, really? What else is he training for? Tartarus Two: The Torture Trudges On? And there’s of course his afternoon class, but he can definitely sleep-walk his way through that one. He’ll wear sunglasses and tell the kids he’s evaluating them based on the level of maliciousness he feels in their energy. It has worked for him before.

He can go out for three in the morning ice cream.

But the principle of the thing.

“It’s witching hour, William.”

“You like witching hour.” 

Fair. 

“Plus! Ice cream.” He turns to face Nico, and he still can’t see, that at least Nico knows for sure, but he tilts his head and cocks his hip like he can. “Ice cream, Death Boy. Three a.m. bad decisions. Look me in the eye and tell me you’re not frothing at the mouth.”

Nico makes a show of patting down his dry face, just to bother him, except he realises he was in fact drooling in his sleep and has to then resist the urge to throw himself off a building. Gods. Will is lucky it's blacker than actual night in here or Nico would genuinely have to kill him and then himself. 

"Fine," he says hastily, rolling off his bed and slamming onto the floor. "Begone. I will meet you outside."

“You have two minutes,” Will warns, tapping at his watch. He turns resolutely around. He pauses. He turns again, sighs, then turns, or at least tries to, back to Nico’s general direction, but where he is actually staring, hands on his hips, is the wall, this time Nico does not even bother to hide his smile in his hands. “Could you maybe point me in the direction of the door, Mr. Vampire Freak?”

Nico puts gentle hands on Will’s shoulders, guiding him towards the ornate doorway. He offers absolutely no resistance, leaning into the pressure of Nico’s palms as he stumbles forward.

“Calling me a freak is going to restart my trauma,” Nico says loftily.

“Shut up.” A beat. “Sorry.”

“I���m teasing, you doofus.”

“Still. That was uncalled for.” He nearly brains himself on the doorway trying to turn around to face him. Nico darts out and tucks a protective hand over his forehead, just in time. Will butts his head into the hold affectionately. “You are not a freak.”

Something gross and gooey and soft melts in Nico’s sternum, and his lips twitch, and his chest warms, and fondness bleeds from him, from his pores, wrapping Will’s shoulders like shadow and blinking like gentle flame.

“I know that,” Nico says, shaking his head. “You are so strange. Get out of here. I need to put pants on.”

Will blinks. Nico counts four seconds. Will glances down, and his face heats something awful.

“You!!!” he whisper-shouts, over Nico’s snickering. “I’m going to!!!” He waves a hand. He waves again, ending in somewhat of an accusing point. “Ah!!!”

He rushes out the barely-open door, tripping over the front step and sprawling on his ass on the porch. Nico leans against the doorway, grin widening, arms crossed over his chest. Will stays curled on the floor, face in his hands, muttering to himself. It is so loud it — echoes. Right across the common. Two separate lights turn on.

He does not notice.

Nico loves him so much he envisions grabbing his pillow and beating him to a coma with the force of it. Instead, he rushes inside and pulls on the first pair of jeans he sees.

“Okay,” he yawns, nudging Will’s prone form with the toe of his shoe. “Let’s go.”

“Finally,” Will mumbles. He stays in his ball of misery for five seconds. He gets up. He pauses, breathing in, breathing out. He, realisinf Nico has left him behind, scrambles to catch up, tripping over a rock and very nearly pitching right down Half-Blood Hill. “I want — soft serve.”

“No,” Nico says easily.

“It’s better! It’s — smooth!”

They reach the road. Nico raises a hand as if summoning a taxi, barely managing to grab Will’s collar and yank him back from the road before a shiny, shadow-black SUV melts into existence at the speed of Fast and kills him dead.

“It’s a disgrace, William. It is an abomination of modern hubris.”

“You’re — you’re just like your father, you know that, you —”

Nico’s jaw drops.

“That’s is an evil fucking thing to say to me —”

Will is so loud, he can’t help it, everywhere he goes, he stumbles through doorways and trips over air and whistles as he walks and tap tap taps his ever-moving fingers. Will is loud, he is lively, Will is life, personified, every inch of him glows golden.

The issue is that Nico is loud when he’s around him, too. Like he forgets to keep quiet.

“—that’s that, Solace.” He yanks the sliding door open, hovering in the frame. “Hard ice cream or no ice cream for you. That’s that.”

Will huffs. It’s just barely bright enough outside — there’s moonlight — for him to be facing the right direction, this time, back to Thalia’s tree, as he crosses his arms and taps his foot and pouts like that will get him anywhere.

Nico stares right back, back to the SUV, ignoring Jules-Albert’s grumbling.

He will not give in this time. 

He will not.

“I really just think soft ice cream will help the homesick,” Will mumbles. He kicks at the too-long grass. “It’s — tour season. Mama and I always went to DQ during tour season.”

“Oh —Jesus fucking Christ.”

Will has won and he knows he has, because he can muffle a smile but he’s never been able to fight back that victorious little giggle, because he is loud, and Nico hates him.

Toujours il te déjoue, et toujours, tu lui permets.

Nico scowls.

“Your job is to drive, Jules-Albert; if I wanted a critic I would have summered Ebert.”

Jules-Albert smiles at him. Due to the rotting flesh and tooth decay, it is horrifying, but unfortunately not horrifying enough to distract him from Will’s smug lean, his bright smile.

“If you don’t stop humming We Are The Champions I’m going to fucking gut you,” Nico threatens.

“Mhm. Perhaps. But then you would have no one to bully you, and you will be miserable.”

Jules-Albert barks a laugh, and offers Will a high-five.

“I will crack a chasm open onto this road! I swear to the gods! I will blow up this car!”

———

It takes twenty-two minutes to get to the nearest Dairy Queen.

Nico practically flees out of the car.

“I thought you were too tired for ice cream,” Will teases, jogging after him.

Nico scowls at him. “I am never doing anything with you ever again as long we both shall live.”

“Sure thing,” says Will absentmindedly. He links their arms together, humming at the menu. Nico’s lungs shrivel up and retire. “I’m only friends with you for the infinite credit card, anyway.”

“Oh, shut up.”

The Dairy Queen is silent at nearly four in the morning. Even the machines hold their breath, sole employee communicating entirely in nods and slow blinks.

Will’s laugh is like rolling summer thunder.

Nico feels like he is suffocating, like the humidity of the air churns solid in his chest.

———

In the cold of the late-night DQ air, table sticking to his elbows, a flip-flopped foot kicks his ankle.

“Hey.”

“What,” Nico grumps, shoving a spoonful of Oreo Blizzard Extreme into his mouth. It is mediocre.

There is a dot of ice cream on Will’s nose. Unrelated, there has been an endless loop of anguished screaming yearning in the back of Nico’s mind for the past seven minutes.

“Thank you.”

“Hmph.”

Will smiles. His nose scrunches with it, and the ice cream smears across his freckles. Nico’s heart explodes, just like that. Probably due to the ice cream. Sugar clogs arteries, or something like that.

“I mean it. Thank you.”

“You’re just saying that ‘cause you need a ride home. And because I paid, you broke pain in the ass.”

He smiles wider. His blue eyes shine darker than midnight, darker than Oreos, and for a desperate breathless moment Nico drowns in his pupils.

“True. But also.”

He kicks Nico’s ankles again.

“Thank you for coming with me.”

The half-frozen brownie lodges in his throat, and Nico swallows, and swallows, and swallows. Will’s eyes ger brighter, and brighter, and brighter.

“Yeah,” he says, reedy. He swallows. Will ducks his head. “Anytime.”

[loveemagicpeace]

💗Astro Notes💗

The fire signs tend to be confident of finding light at the end of the tunnel. The earth signs are focused in the present - staying busy with practical arrangements can bring security. With planets in air, your key asset is objectivity - conversely, with planets in water you need to give due importance to deep feelings.

The cardinal signs tend to deal with difficuity by taking control and trying to make headway. In the fixed signs, there is natural resilience and staying power. If you have mutable signs strong on the other hand, running away might be your preferred option - but if not, you can use your versatility and capacity to adapt.

The 6th house is a good place to begin. Your daily health plan belongs here and so it is wise to create one which reflects your 6th house planets (and/or the sign on the cusp).

Sometimes there will be contradictions, such as having both Jupiter and Saturn in this house, but this simply means that you must pay attention to both and get them to work in tandem in this area of your life.

Even if you have Chiron or Uranus here, you can devise a way to honour these principles. With Chiron in the 6th, you might be interested in investigating complementary health practices; with Uranus, it might help to exercise in short bursts, and also to find ways to discharge the high-voltage nervous energy this planet exudes. Mercury in 6th house you can have a very exciting lifestyle, and you can also be distracted by many things during the day.  Sun in 6th house you like to be productive during the day itself.

The 12th house Traditionally this was regarded as the house of sickness, a place where planets lose vitality and are "weak" in their expression. Other astrologers speak of karma and "past lives" in respect of this house. A psychological approach can shed light on this.

Planets in the 12th are hidden from view - thus our motivations and behaviour patterns around them tend to be unconscious. In addition, the "past lives" can be seen as those of our ancestors; planets here can hint at complexes or traumas experenced by past generations, which we have somehow inherited.

These hidden feelings often make themselves known to us in psychosomatic form, as physica. symptoms. An example of this might be the Moon here suggesting an experience of lack of nourishment or care, which might emerge as a longing to be looked after; with  Mercury here you can experience of not being allowed to speak out, which emerges as illnesses or conditions connected to the voice.

People with a lot of neptune, 12th house energy are more prone to daydreaming and have a more relaxed outlook on life.You are not so inclined to be able to do something immediately or to be organized, you are often more inclined to do things when you feel like it. You do a lot of things by feeling.

Sun -your indentity and purpose can emerge from a life dedicated to service. Mercury- you have ability to manifest a lot of things. You have a wild imagination. Pluto- You have a very strong intuition and often feel things before they happen.

Pluto can be very powerful in this position.

Based on your venus u can see what type of love u want and where u feel the most loved. Venus is also your pleasure and desire. Where you find your value. Your beauty, art , music, things you love to do. Sagittarius venus you find beauty while traveling. The love you have for places is very big. You love people with whom you can share adventures, fun things, passion. Virgo venus for you grandness of love is shown through everyday acts of affection and care.

Virgo Rising -they have trouble finding true love. They attract many partners who don't suit them in the way they would like them to be. They are also quite individualistic. They like to be with people they can connect with as part of their routine, they usually look for someone who has a similar lifestyle to them.But many times they attract people who are the opposite of who they are, especially since they have Pisces in the 7th house. At least once in their lives, they attract someone who betrays them or has a false identity. They often have a thinner physique and have a harder time gaining weight.

Cancer Rising-they tend to find the right partner later in life.Usually when they have a Saturn return. Before that, they can attract many karmic partners.

Capricorn Rising-they are very independent and can do many things on their own. They also have a lot of luck in love, often find partners, are caring, and create a beautiful home with them.They have a lot of self-respect and will never let you humiliate them.

Libra Rising -They flirt a lot and always need love, but because this is the house of Mars, it is sometimes very difficult for them to regulate their energy. Your personality is naturally passive aggressive at times. You don't like conflicts.. You see the beauty in everything and always want to be kind to people. But there is one side of you that doesn't show as much. That is, people always think you are very open because of your friendly energy, but you are actually quite a closed person. You don't really share your privacy with others.

Sagittarius Rising- Your personality is very optimistic and you try to look at life from a positive perspective. Many times you can  have certain beliefs that you don't deviate from. You are also a very resourceful person. You can quickly get out of situations that are not pleasant

Rebekah🌙🧜🏻‍♀️

[inseobts]

TRAITOR pt.2

law x traitor!reader

PART 1 ⤳ PART 3

words count: 2.6k

tags: series, enemies to lover(?), traitor reader

masterlist || ao3 || ko-fi

It’s easy to forget you’re lying when they make it feel real.

The Heart Pirates aren’t just a crew, they’re a family. They bicker like siblings, tease each other relentlessly, and somehow, without meaning to, you’ve been pulled into it.

You should’ve kept your distance.

But how could you, when—

“Y/N! HELP!”

You barely have time to register the shout before something massive collides with you, nearly knocking you over.

“Bepo—” you gasp, struggling under the weight of the massive mink currently clinging to you “You cannot use me as a shield... what the hell is going on?”

Shachi and Penguin sprint around the corner, looking absolutely murderous. Ikkaku follows close behind, arms crossed, her glare laser-focused on Bepo.

“There you are, you traitor!” Penguin points an accusing finger at the trembling mink still latched onto you.

You blink “Okay, wow. Let’s pause. Why is Bepo a traitor?”

Shachi glares “Because someone ratted us out to the Captain.”

You sigh, already piecing it together “Did you guys try to smuggle alcohol into the infirmary again?”

“… No.”

“You so did.”

Bepo’s ears flatten, guilt all over his face “I had to tell him! He was going to find out anyway!”

“You snitch!” Shachi wails.

“You idiots,” you correct, prying Bepo off you before he suffocates you with his fluff “Why do you always try to hide stuff from Law? You know he’s just gonna find out and punish you worse.”

“It’s about the principle of it,” Penguin grumbles.

You sigh, rubbing your temples “What was the punishment?”

Shachi pouts “No dessert for a week.”

You stare “That’s it?”

“That’s everything, Y/N.”

Bepo nods solemnly “They’re suffering.”

You shake your head, barely suppressing a laugh “You guys are so dramatic.”

Ikkaku crosses her arms “You’re laughing now, but if Law ever finds out about that thing you did, you’re not getting out of it so easily.”

Your breath catches.

Just for a second.

And then you force an easy grin “Which thing? I do a lot of things.”

Ikkaku narrows her eyes playfully “The one with the—”

“Shh!” You slap a hand over her mouth “Don’t tell them, it’s supposed to be a secret!”

The others immediately light up with interest.

“Oh, now you have to tell us,” Shachi says eagerly.

“I am so telling the Captain,” Penguin teases.

Bepo nods sagely “This is karma.”

You groan, regretting everything.

Despite moments like these, you don’t forget why you’re here.

Deep beneath the Polar Tang, hidden in one of the ship’s most secure rooms, is one of the reasons you really joined this crew.

The copies of the Poneglyphs.

You don’t know how Law got his hands on them, but you do know that your real crew, the one you actually belong to, wants them.

And you’re the one who has to steal them.

The thought makes your stomach twist.

Because despite everything, despite the mission, despite knowing you’re a liar.

You don’t hate being here.

You don’t hate them.

You should’ve. It would’ve made this easier.

But you don’t.

Some weeks later you meet the Straw Hats, and you immediately know you’re in trouble.

Not because they’re enemies, or because they’re a threat.

But because of Zoro. You've met him years ago, and even if your real crew was always subtle that no one actually know them, he knows you're a well known pirate between the bounty hunters, even without a specific crew name on it.

You see it in his face the second his eye land on you. That flicker of recognition... subtle, but unmistakable.

You know that look.

It’s the look of someone who remembers you.

He just doesn’t know from where.

And that’s a problem.

“You look familiar,” he says bluntly, eyes narrowing slightly “Do I know you?”

Your mind races. A dozen different excuses flash through your head, but none of them are good enough.

So you go for the simplest, most believable one.

“You probably saw my bounty poster,” you say smoothly, forcing a grin “I’ve got a pretty face, after all.”

Shachi and Penguin snicker behind you.

Zoro eyes you for a second longer, clearly unconvinced, but Luffy claps a hand on his shoulder before he can question you further.

“Zoro, stop being weird,” Luffy says, grinning at you “She’s cool, right, Law?”

Law, who has been watching the exchange carefully, nods once. “She’s one of us.”

The words shouldn’t make your chest tighten the way they do.

But they do.

And that’s dangerous.

The Kid Pirates are even worse.

Because Kid is loud, brash, and aggressive—but he’s also smart.

And he watches you.

Not like Zoro, who’s trying to place your face. Not like Law, who looks at you like you matter.

Kid watches you like he’s waiting for you to slip up.

Like he knows something’s off about you, but he just hasn’t figured out what yet.

“You don’t fit,” he says one night, after too many drinks.

You tilt your head, keeping your expression neutral “Excuse me?”

Kid leans forward, propping his elbows on the table “You’re a little too smooth, a little too good at blending in.” He smirks. “Like you practiced.”

Your fingers tighten around your glass.

“I’ve always been good at adapting,” you say, keeping your voice casual “That’s what a good pirate does, right?”

Kid hums, unconvinced.

And you realize, with a slow sinking feeling—

He’s not going to stop watching you.

The deeper you fall into this act, the more tangled it gets.

Zoro recognizes you but doesn’t know from where.

Kid doesn’t trust you but doesn’t have proof.

Law believes in you, and that’s the worst part of it all.

Because when the truth finally comes out...

This new alliance between the three is a sign for you, a sign that it's time to make a move and get away before someone finds out who you are.

You knew the time was coming. You knew.

But now that it’s here, a sick feeling settles in your chest.

Because you don’t want to do it.

It’s not supposed to be this hard.

You’ve done this before. You’ve infiltrated crews, stolen information, betrayed captains who thought you were theirs. It’s always been simple.

Get in. Get what you need. Get out.

But this time—

This time, it’s different.

Because you’re attached.

Because when Law smirks at you in that rare, teasing way, it makes your chest tighten.

Because when the crew laughs and drags you into their stupid antics, you enjoy it.

Because when Bepo whines about missing Zou, when Shachi and Penguin bicker like children, when Ikkaku rolls her eyes at all of them...

It feels like home.

And now you have to rip it apart.

You tell yourself you’ll make it quick.

One night. One chance.

Slip into Law’s office. Get informations and the Poneglyph copies. Get out.

The submarine has weak points, small openings where the sea meets steel, barely noticeable unless you know where to look. And you do.

A quiet escape. No blood. No confrontation.

That’s the plan. Fast and easy, right?

So why does it feel like a mistake before you even start?

You wait until late, when most of the crew is asleep, their laughter from dinner still lingering in the halls.

Law is in his office, like always.

You hesitate outside the door. Just for a second. Just long enough to remind yourself—

This isn’t real. They were never yours.

You push the door open.

Law doesn’t look up immediately, focused on some report in front of him “You should be asleep.”

You smile, stepping closer “So should you.”

He exhales through his nose, amused but tired “What do you want?”

You want him to make this easy.

You want him to be cruel, to be distant, to remind you why you don’t belong here.

But he doesn’t.

He just leans back in his chair, looking at you like you matter. Like you’re his.

Your chest tightens “Just… wanted to check on you.”

A lie. A stupid, obvious lie. But Law doesn’t question it. Instead, he rubs his temple, sighing “You’re always worrying about me.”

“Someone has to.”

“You shouldn’t.”

You swallow “Why not?”

“Because…” He hesitates, fingers tapping against the desk “Because if you care too much, it’ll be harder to leave.”

Your heart stops.

For a second, you think—does he know?

But then he looks away, staring at some distant point, jaw tight.

And you realize—

He’s not talking about you, he's talking about himself.

Not you...

Himself.

Law is the one who doesn’t want you to leave.

And that’s when it hits you... He trusts you. Completely.

Even now, when you’re standing in his office, pretending to care while planning to betray him—

He still trusts you.

Something in your chest aches.

You shouldn’t care. You shouldn’t...

But when he finally looks back at you, exhaustion clear in his golden eyes, and says “Stay a little longer”

And you do.

You sit with him. You don’t steal anything. You don’t run. You just stay.

And for the first time, you think... Maybe you don’t want to leave at all.

You keep telling yourself this is the last night.

You don’t want it to be, but you’ve known it for days now.

Law trusts you. The crew… they think you belong.

And that’s exactly why you have to leave.

Because once you’ve broken through their walls, once you’ve made them care about you, there’s no going back.

No matter how much they make you laugh. No matter how much you start to care about them.

You’re not one of them. You’re just a pirate with an agenda. A thief. A liar. And if you’re not careful, you’ll lose everything.

The night now feels different.

You slip through the ship’s corridors, the quiet hum of the Polar Tang weirdly comforting as you move.

You can hear Shachi and Penguin arguing somewhere above deck, their voices muffled through the metal walls, and it almost makes you smile. Almost.

Law is in his office again. Alone. The perfect time.

You reach for the door, your hand already knowing the cold steel of the handle. But just as you touch it, your pulse quickens—an unease settling in your gut.

Something feels… off.

You hesitate, fingers still resting against the handle. It’s nothing. You’re just overthinking.

But before you can turn the handle, you hear it—the sound of footsteps coming down the hall. Quiet but sure.

Law.

You freeze for a moment and then you start casually walking towards him.

“Couldn’t sleep?”

You look up at him, trying to mask the panic in your eyes “Just passing by.”

Law eyes you, a soft, knowing smile tugging at the corner of his lips “You know, if you keep trying to lie to me, it won’t work. I can tell when you’re lying.”

You swallow, forced to keep your face neutral, even though the tension in your chest is nearly suffocating “You don’t know me that well...”

He steps closer, not threateningly, but with a quiet sort of presence that makes your heartbeat rise “I think I know you better than you think.”

The distance between you two is closing quickly, and you feel a small, dangerous thought flutter in your mind—What if I never leave?

But you shake it off. This has to happen.

You step back, hand sliding into your coat pocket “I think I’ll take a walk. Clear my head.”

Law studies you for a moment, his golden eyes narrowing “You’re not very good at hiding things, you know that?”

You don’t know how to answer that. You don’t know how to lie when it’s getting harder and harder to look at him “I’m going to get some fresh air now”.

You’re standing at the edge of the Polar Tang, staring into the horizon. The sun is setting, painting the sky in oranges and purples.

Tonight, the mission becomes more urgent. The Straw Hats, Kid, and Law’s crew are all moving forward, and you’re running out of time. You know you have to finish what you started.

But how can you betray them?

How can you betray him?

You can’t keep pretending anymore. The lines are blurring. You’re starting to get too close, and you’re terrified of what will happen if you don’t leave soon.

The weight of it is heavy on your shoulders.

But there’s another reason you’re hesitating.

You’ve been hiding your power from them.

Law’s crew doesn’t know what you can do. And you’ve been careful to keep it that way. Because if they knew—if they saw what you could really do—things would change.

And they would fear you... they would all fear you. It happened before. When you’ve used your abilities to their full extent, it’s left a trail of broken minds and empty memories. You can make someone forget an entire conversation, erase their last few hours, manipulate their desires, twist their thoughts—it’s all within your grasp.

And once you start, you can’t stop.

You don’t want to be the monster they think you are. You don’t want them to see you as a tool for their own ends.

So you keep it hidden. You’ve been careful. But now…

Now, you’re feeling the pressure, and it’s getting harder to hide.

You’re walking back to your room, lost in thought, when you hear footsteps behind you.

It’s Law again.

He’s been following you for a while now, and you can feel his eyes on you. You don’t turn around immediately. Instead, you continue walking, your heart pounding.

“You’ve been distant lately.” His voice is calm, but there’s an edge to it—like he’s trying to read you.

You stop, then turn to face him, trying to keep your expression neutral “I’m just tired. There’s a lot going on.”

Law’s gaze narrows. He doesn’t buy it “You’ve been acting weird ever since we got back to the island. What’s going on, y/n?”

For a moment, the weight of the situation crashes down on you. He’s too perceptive. He’s too close to figuring it out.

You take a step back, trying to distance yourself from him, both physically and emotionally “It’s nothing. I just—”

“I’m not asking you to explain everything,” Law interrupts “But if something’s wrong, you can talk to me. We’re... crewmates. I trust you.” He hesitated at that word, as if he wanted to say something else—something much deeper—that scared not only you but himself as well.

You two always had some sort of relationship that started as casual and continued that way, without really talking about your real feelings, as if it were a given.

Anyway his words hit you like a punch. You can’t breathe for a moment.

He trusts you, he likes you.

And you’ve been lying to him this whole time. You’ve been using him. Using his trust to get what you need.

But what if he’s right? What if you do need to tell him?

No. You can’t.

You can’t risk it.

You force a smile “I’m fine, really. Just… need some time to think. I’ll be okay.”

Law doesn’t look convinced, but he nods, though the worry in his eyes lingers “If you say so”

You watch him leave, feeling the weight of his words on your shoulders.

And then—just when you think you might break—you hear the voice in your mind.

It’s your old crew.

The ones who know you better than anyone else, or at least that's what you think.

It’s time. You don’t have much choice now, you have to do it NOW.

[adikkachannels]

Bhagavad Gita vs. Corporate America: What’s the Real Leadership Secret?

👉 👉 Bhagavad Gita vs. Corporate America – A Leadership Showdown The modern corporate world stands at a crossroads. While technological advancements and global connectivity have pushed businesses to new heights, they have also created a culture of relentless competition, unethical shortcuts, and unsustainable leadership practices. Corporate leaders, in their pursuit of quarterly profits and…

[doubleca5t]

it's extremely funny to me that people are shitting on JoJo Siwa's rebrand by, among other things, comparing it unfavorably to Miley Cyrus' Bangerz era. I've heard several people give the take that Bangerz Miley was legitimately shocking and effective, while Karma feels like a weak attempt to do something similar and like... I can't help but think that a full decade of distance has completely distorted people's memory of the public reaction to Bangerz. Like I distinctly remember EVERYONE going in on Miley for that era. Literally all parties from all sides of american culture came together for a brief period of time in 2013 to dunk on her for being a white girl with no ass trying to twerk. She was cringe, she was trying too hard, she was too raunchy, she was appropriating black culture, she was using black women as props, the music sounded like shit. I cannot remember anyone in 2013 saying a single good thing about the Bangerz era so it makes absolutely no sense to me that people are acting like JoJo getting relentlessly shitted on, albeit for slightly different reasons, is a sign that her rebrand has failed and her career is over when Miley fully bounced back from that criticism and is now a goddamn grammy winner. What makes you think that JoJo's career arc will be any different? Like yes she's attracting a different kind of negative attention than Miley did but it's still the same principle, it's still just doing some crazy shit with the mindset of "all publicity is good publicity". You're still giving her earned media, you are literally getting played like a fiddle by this woman and giving her exactly what she wants. Oml in a decade's time JoJo will be putting out music people actually like and everyone will pretend like Karma was a genius career move and none of this ever happened because the cultural memory is ipad baby levels of abyssmal

[toffeecoco1]

@perpetualgrey's comment on this post

Ok my first instinct was to laugh, but then I realised you might be onto something???

Shen Yuan is LITERALLY an impostor, who’s more far more kind and beloved by Binghe than the original. The Guanyin pendant is a counterfeit, but it carries the love of Binghe’s mother and is far more precious than any real jade could ever be.

The heartbreak Binghe’s mother felt after realising that the Guanyin pendant was fake and she’d been tricked was part of what lead to the gradual decline of her health.¹ In wanting to do something kind for Binghe, she felt that she’d failed, and this led to her demise. What is Shen Qingqiu’s entire story, but trying to be kind to Binghe, feeling inadequate at this, and dying? (More than once!!)

Guanyin is a Bodhisattva associated with mercy, kindness, compassion and unconditional love. She is a patron of mothers, and is called upon in times of fear, uncertainty, and despair. The Bodhisattva she originated from is seen as a saviour, through whose grace even those with the most negative karma can achieve salvation. Even when she is not worshipped as a goddess, she is revered as the principle of love, compassion and mercy.² From wikipedia, “The act, thought and feeling of compassion and love is viewed as Guanyin. A merciful, compassionate, loving individual is said to be Guanyin.”²

The original Luo Binghe appears never to have lost his pendant. Shen Qingqiu tells us: “It was the only bit of warmth in Luo Binghe’s dark world, always by his side, and even in the future when he was at his darkest, it could summon up his last dregs of humanity.”¹ He also states that “it was Luo Binghe’s biggest berserk button.”¹

Our Luo Binghe does not cling to the pendant when he’s at his darkest: he clings to the love he has for his shizun and to memories of his kindness, and later, to the lifeless body of Shen Qingqiu himself. His biggest berserk button isn’t when people insult the pendant or his mother, or try to take it away; it’s Shen Qingqiu: when people insult him or try to take him away.

From the start, Shen Qingqiu expresses truly unconditional love for Binghe. He spends three years showing endless compassion and kindness, actions which feel insignificant to him but are more than enough to completely change Binghe’s life. He holds no blame or resentment for the things he fears Binghe will do to him; though he doesn’t want to be tortured, he forgives Binghe for it nonetheless, before it has even happened. He sacrifices himself to save Binghe as his mind is eaten away at by Xin Mo, when he believes that Binghe just slaughtered a hundred Huan Hua Disciples, when Binghe’s reckless use of the sword is putting countless more lives at risk.³

Shen Qingqiu is a counterfeit that is more precious than the original could ever be. For Binghe, he personifies kindness, compassion and unconditional love. His regrets over his treatment of Binghe lead to his temporary demise. Binghe clings to him in his darkest moments, and he is that which Binghe protects most fiercely.

I always found the pendant’s role in the story to be almost lacking: it’s treated as such an important item to Binghe, yet in the end its return is almost anticlimactic. But perhaps this is because the role the pendant played in Bing-ge’s story has been overtaken by Shen Qingqiu. When he returns the pendant, Binghe is relieved and appreciative: but his joy seems to stem more from the fact that Shen Qingqiu held onto it and cherished him than from the pendant itself. The pendant doesn’t matter all that much to him anymore, at least not compared to how important it seems to have been in PIDW. Binghe doesn't need an object to symbolize love and kindness; he has a person to love, who loves him back.

In conclusion: Shizun was in fact the fake jade Guanyin pendant all along!

sources cited below :)

1. Seven Seas Volume 1, Chapter 1: Scum. Pages 40-41.

2. “Guanyin,” Wikipedia. There’s a lot more to her than what I mentioned here, she’s quite interesting.

3. Seven Seas Volume 2, Chapter 8: Death. Pages 154-156.

[nyaagolor]

How do you rank the prosecutors on order of homophobia

forgot about this in my drafts for literally months oops. Anyway. Finished now!!!!

So I made this post a while ago that has some of the prosecutors and antagonists, but if you want a ranking of EVERY prosecutor (not including DGS bc i haven't finished yet) huzzah!!

Simon Blackquill: Not actually homophobic but he gets points docked for siccing Taka (known homophobe) at Klavier (known bisexual) for stealing his pretzels from the office pantry that one time. 3/10

Blaise Debeste: I think he's gay but he made me look at that ugly ass beard for far too long and I consider that disrespectful. out of principle? 8/10

Sebastian Debeste: Just look at him. 0/10

Miles Edgeworth: Bratworth was simultaneously gay, homophobic, and a misogynist, and eventually develops into a man who is only like 1.5 of those things. he's getting better. 5/10

Byrne Faraday: I don't really think he cares much about gay people he's busy being a single father and stealing shit. For the apathy? 2/10

Klavier Gavin: He's extremely gay and does a lot of work for the gay community but making Ema Skye deal with him is explicitly lesbophobic so 4/10

Godot: He has a lovely wife but whatever he was doing with Ron DeLite was probably not osha-compliant. I don't know what that means for his sexuality or stance on gay people and neither does he. ?/10

Ga'ran: I think she has a lot of other problems she should deal with first but considered she's bigoted to defense attorneys I don't think her being homophobic would be that out of pocket. Not sure I want to find out. 7/10

Neil Marshall: Have you ever been a gay bar? This guy would do NUMBERS. Also, real cowboys support gay rights. 0/10

Gaspen Payne: Being homophobic is actually why he got fired by the prosecutor's office and Winston is really fucking embarrassed about it. 10/10

Winston Payne: You'd think he'd be homophobic but you can't work for the Japanifornia Prosecutor's Office and hate gay people or you would actually go insane. He's like that one suburban guy who uses terms from the 60s but has the spirit. However, his ally lapel pin is really ugly so 3/10

Jaques Portman: He was calling Edgeworth slurs even before realizing he was gay. 9/10

Lana Skye: Dated Mia in college but refused to explain that to Ema because she has a lot of internalized homophobia and other weird issues of self. Repressed yuri personified. 1/10

Nahyuta Sahdmadhi: He supports gay people but gets all his talking points from the internet so even though he's supportive he's also incredibly fucking annoying about it and no one wants to invite him to brunch because of it. Stop using twitter for fact-checking you jackass. 2/10

Franziska Von Karma: Despite the fact that her lesbianism is so strong it borders on misandry, I think she has a lot of internalized homophobia so she spends the first 25 years of her life being a judgmental little shit. She'll get better dw about it. I believe she can bring that number down with time. 6/10

Manfred Von Karma: I think when he finds out Edgeworth is gay he starts going to gay bars and picking up dudes just to show Edgeworth he has way more rizz than him. Considering how people in my notes have told me on numerous occasions how much they want him carnally, I think he could actually pull it off. In that respect I think he's done a lot for the gay community. It ends up cancelling out somewhat because I think he'd be kind of an ass about it. 4/10

[fy-perspectives]

"Never let your sense of morals prevent you from doing what is right." 

Isaac Asimov

Reciprocity

The full quote is usually stated as "Whatever you are looking for is also looking for you," and it essentially means that the thing you actively seek in life is also actively seeking you out, often interpreted as a message of optimism and the power of intention. 

Key points about this quote:

Origin: While not definitively attributed to one person, it's often linked to the philosophy of Sufi poet Rumi, whose famous line is "What you seek is seeking you." 

Interpretation: This quote is generally understood as a positive affirmation, suggesting that if you put your energy towards finding something, it will likely appear in your life as well. 

Law of Attraction: Some people connect this quote to the concept of the Law of Attraction, which states that your thoughts and intentions can attract corresponding experiences into your life.

ethos

/ˈiːθɒs/

the characteristic spirit of a culture, era, or community as manifested in its attitudes and aspirations.

"a challenge to the ethos of the 1960s"

Similar: spirit, essence, character, quintessence, motivating force, morality, principles, ethics

"Actions speak louder than words" 

is an idiom that means what someone does is more important than what they say. It's often used to describe a situation where someone's actions don't match their words. 

Karma is an ancient Indian concept that refers to an action, work, or deed, and its effect or consequences.

Karma

Karma, in its essence, is the principle of cause and effect, rooted in ancient Indian philosophy. It suggests that every action—whether physical, verbal, or mental—has consequences that shape an individual's future, either in this life or in future incarnations. The idea is that positive actions lead to positive outcomes, while negative actions lead to suffering or undesirable consequences. Karma is often seen as a law of the universe that encourages ethical living, responsibility, and mindfulness, urging individuals to act with compassion, integrity, and awareness of the interconnectedness of all beings.

“I am a unique individual human being, breathing into the vastness of space and the essence of time, shaping my reality and affirming in existence.”

― A Abraham

This quote by A Abraham expresses a profound sense of self-awareness and empowerment. It acknowledges one's individuality as both a vital part of the universe and an active force in shaping reality. The words emphasise the significance of personal agency, as if each person is a living force that contributes to the unfolding of time and space. It reminds us that our existence is not just passive but transformative, affirming the unique mark we leave on the world through our actions, thoughts, and presence.

“Everyone should be respected as an individual, but no one idolised.”

― Albert Einstein, Einstein on Politics: His Private Thoughts and Public Stands on Nationalism, Zionism, War, Peace and the Bomb

This quote by Albert Einstein emphasises the importance of recognising each person’s inherent worth while avoiding placing anyone on a pedestal. Respecting individuals for who they are, without elevating them to an unrealistic or unattainable status, promotes equality and a sense of shared humanity. It encourages us to appreciate people's unique contributions without turning them into idols or expecting perfection. This perspective fosters a more grounded, humble approach to relationships, where admiration doesn't lead to undue reverence, and individuals are valued for their true selves.

Whatever is hurtful to you, Do not do to any other person.

A command based on words of Jesus

This teaching, often referred to as the Golden Rule, aligns with Jesus' words in the Gospels: "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you" (Matthew 7:12, Luke 6:31). It’s a profound moral principle that encourages empathy and compassion. The idea is simple yet powerful—before causing harm to others, we should consider how it would feel if the same were done to us. It promotes respect, kindness, and understanding, urging us to treat others with the dignity we wish for ourselves.

“Well, I like to eat, sleep, drink, and be in love. I like to work, read, learn, and understand life.”

― Langston Hughes

This quote by Langston Hughes beautifully captures the balance between life's simple pleasures and the pursuit of knowledge. It reflects a holistic approach to living, where enjoyment and love coexist with work, learning, and personal growth. Hughes celebrates the richness of both the sensual and intellectual aspects of life, emphasising the importance of savouring each moment while also striving for deeper understanding. It’s a reminder that life is about finding harmony between the things that bring us joy and the things that help us grow.

“If you can't explain it to a six year old, you don't understand it yourself.”

― Albert Einstein

This quote by Albert Einstein speaks to the importance of clarity in understanding. If we can explain complex ideas in simple terms, it indicates a true mastery of the subject. The ability to break down concepts to their most basic, understandable form reflects deep comprehension and insight. It encourages us to seek simplicity in communication and understanding, ensuring that we don't just know something, but that we can effectively share it with others, regardless of their age or background.

“Life is a journey through space and time. 

Time is the ever-present moment in motion. 

Invest in minds that are full of ideas, concepts, and resolve. 

Together, we can create a better future for ourselves and for generations to come.”

― A Abraham

This quote by A Abraham beautifully captures the essence of life as a continuous journey, where the present moment is a constant flow of time. It emphasises the value of investing in the minds of those who are driven by ideas, concepts, and determination. The message inspires collective effort toward building a better future, highlighting the power of collaboration and forward-thinking. It reminds us that each step we take, guided by purpose and knowledge, shapes not just our own destiny but also the world we leave behind for future generations.

"Sometimes you have to distance yourself to see things clearly.”

― A Abraham

That's a powerful statement. Taking a step back or distancing oneself from a situation can often provide the clarity needed to gain perspective. It allows for a broader view, free from the emotional or immediate impulses that may cloud judgment. This space can foster better decision-making, insight, and understanding, especially when navigating complex situations or relationships. Do you find yourself reflecting on this idea in relation to something specific?

“Don't ever fill Silence and Empty Spaces with Evil Voices and Useless Objects respectively. 

One will Infect your Mind, The other will Make You A Slave.”

― A Abraham

That's a powerful quote, reflecting the importance of being mindful of both external influences and the things we allow into our lives. Silence is a space for reflection and clarity, and empty spaces, when filled with distractions or meaningless possessions, can hold us back from true freedom and purpose. It seems to encourage cultivating wisdom by guarding both the mind and the environment.

“People will love you. People will hate you. 

And none of it will have anything to do with you.”

― Abraham Hicks  

This quote by Abraham Hicks encapsulates a profound truth about human relationships and perception. It highlights the idea that people’s feelings toward you often stem more from their own perspectives, experiences, and inner worlds than from who you truly are. It’s a reminder to stay authentic and not be overly influenced by external validation or criticism.

“You will become way less concerned with what other people think of you when you realise how seldom they do.”

― David Foster Wallace, Infinite Jest

This quote beautifully highlights the human tendency to overestimate how much others focus on us. It's a liberating reminder to prioritize self-awareness and authenticity over the fear of external judgment. Most people are preoccupied with their own lives, which means we often have more freedom to be ourselves than we might think. It's a cornerstone of confidence and personal growth.

“You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.”

― Dale Carnegie, How to Win Friends & Influence People

This quote from Dale Carnegie underscores the power of genuine curiosity and interest in others as the foundation of meaningful relationships. It reflects the idea that people are naturally drawn to those who make them feel valued and understood. By shifting focus from seeking attention to giving attention, you build trust and rapport more effectively.

“Any fool can criticise, complain, and condemn—and most fools do. 

But it takes character and self-control to be understanding and forgiving.”

― Dale Carnegie, How to Win Friends & Influence People

This quote highlights a profound truth about human interaction: it is far easier to judge and find fault than to exercise understanding and forgiveness. Dale Carnegie emphasizes that these qualities—character and self-control—require emotional maturity and strength. Practicing understanding and forgiveness not only nurtures relationships but also fosters personal growth and resilience.

“Live amongst people in such a manner that if you die they weep over you and if you are alive they crave for your company.”

― Ali Ibn Abi Talib

This quote by Ali Ibn Abi Talib highlights the importance of living with kindness, integrity, and generosity. It encourages us to build relationships that leave a lasting impact—where our presence is cherished, and our absence is deeply felt. The essence is to live in a way that others appreciate, respect, and miss us, both in life and in death. It's a reminder to be present and meaningful in the lives of others, fostering love and genuine connections.

“No two things have been combined better than knowledge and patience.”

― Hazrat Muhammad

This quote attributed to Hazrat Muhammad (peace be upon him) beautifully encapsulates the synergy between knowledge and patience. Knowledge allows us to understand, make informed decisions, and grow, while patience ensures that we endure challenges, give ideas time to mature, and navigate life's complexities with wisdom.

The combination of these two virtues is a recipe for success, as knowledge without patience can lead to haste, and patience without knowledge can lack direction. Together, they empower us to persevere and make meaningful contributions.

“The truth will set you free. But not until it is finished with you.”

― David Foster Wallace, Infinite Jest

David Foster Wallace's quote from Infinite Jest encapsulates a profound truth about the nature of self-awareness and growth. It suggests that truth is transformative but often disruptive—it doesn’t grant liberation until we fully confront and grapple with it, no matter how challenging or uncomfortable.

This can resonate deeply with anyone pursuing personal growth, as true freedom often requires facing hard realities and breaking through illusions about ourselves or the world.

“Life is hard. Then you die. Then they throw dirt in your face. Then the worms eat you. Be grateful it happens in that order.”

― David Gerrold

This quote by David Gerrold brings a darkly humorous perspective on the inevitability of life’s challenges and death. It’s a reminder of the transient nature of our existence, suggesting that despite life’s hardships, the order of events allows us to experience life before its end. It’s a way of encouraging gratitude for the time we have, even if it seems fleeting or difficult. The humour in it may also serve as a coping mechanism to remind us not to take life too seriously, embracing both its struggles and its brevity.

[saintescuderia]

pancakes (pt. 5)

AKA - the story of how the naive australian rookie befriended the gym junkie F1 hospitality worker with the shoe collection - and inadvertently broke the grid's most treasured and unspoken rule: you don't go for y/n.

series masterlist here :) // the pancakes recipe here :)

A/N: sorry this took so long. pls enjoy.

P5 - occasional spotter

Zak Brown wasn’t exactly sure what to do.

At first, this was just a driver issue. It was clear what needed to happen and Zak knew it was rough doing that to Daniel. However, Ricciardo was, admittedly, just plain horrible in the car. Zak had hoped, he really, really had hoped Daniel would turn things around. But that just didn’t happen. Daniel was supposed to come in and take the lead from Lando. But that just didn’t happen. 

So when Oscar Piastri seemed onboard with joining McLaren - and face the risks that would come with essentially abandoning Alpine - it seemed like things would be on the up. He was a young driver but that leap of faith had paid off with Lando before. Besides, Oscar had one of the best CVs coming into Formula 1. He also was still young enough that he could be moulded to the likes of any car. Unlike Daniel who preferred front-end focused cars that accommodated his late breaking style - something that just didn’t happen in a rear-end focused car such as the McLaren. 

And so, Zak did what he had to do. Out went RIC3 and in came OP81. If only with an odd requirement.

Zak had agreed to the young Oscar’s random request to try and acquire a random Hospitality worker he was friends with as a trainer. Drivers do what drivers do. It wasn’t the oddest thing Zak had ever heard a driver ask for. If anything, that was nothing compared to some things drivers in the past had come up with as a condition to signing. Zak accepted Oscar’s request without much thought. 

Boy, was that a big mistake. 

Evident by how he was now faced with the stare of one very unhappy Christian Horner in a meeting Domenicali had called ahead of the Saudi Arabia race. Whilst Zak usually left Andrea to these things since he was the team principal and, unlike Mercedes with Toto or Red Bull with Horner, McLaren had a split role between CEO and TP. Zak could pick and choose when he had to face these assholes.

“Stefano requested you specifically boss.” Andrea had informed him. 

Zak half-wished for one of the cappuccinos from Oscar's friend as he walked in to what was most likely going to be Horner and Wolff snitching on another. Zak forced the fake smile on his face - he knew the others would be smug about how bad the MCL60 was performing. He had half expected Horner to sit there grinning at the apparently karma all the journalists were reporting on since Red Bull were dominating. And Oscar had DNF'ed.

Except when Zak followed Andrea in and actually approached the bookclub circle of team principles, Horner was anything but glib. No, he was fuming. 

“Gentlemen, thank you for joining us— Guenther!” Domencali sighed, looking at the door.

“Fucking washed up idiots— ah, sorry teacher!” The German TP ducked his head sheepish as he walked in late to the meeting. Guenther left his assistant and took his seat next to Fred Vasseur, the new Ferrari team principal, who was holding a hand to his mouth, trying to hide the amused smile. Zak rolled his eyes.

“Thank you Guenther.” Domenicali said with a pointed look, then addressed everyone. “Now, there have been some issues brought forth to me and I thought we should be reminded of a few things.” 

Christian’s eyes remained on Zak’s. It was unnerving. Zak turned to Andrea who seemed to have caught on the Red Bull boss’s less than enthusiastic stare. Zak’s brows furrowed, clearly confused. Andrea's eyes widened slightly and then he gave an almost imperceptible shake of his shoulders. Zak shook his head and then looked up as if to say, who knows? The communication between the two men who had worked alongside each other was clear; they were both at a loss with Horner's anger.

“Firstly, Hospitality staff are part of the Formula One Group and are not to be affiliated with any one team.” 

Horner uncrossed his legs and then crossed them the other way. A vein appeared in his forehead.

Ah.

A wave understanding suddenly washed over Zak. He darted his eyes down as he fought to keep the smile off his face. Was Christian Horner that bored that he went snitching about him talking to a Hospitality worker? 

You hadn’t even agreed to join McLaren and opted to draft up some agreement between you and Oscar on how you would ‘unofficially’ train him. What was the big deal? 

And so Zak voiced that. 

“If this is in regard to one of my drivers having a budding friendship with one of the Hospitality staff, surely we can move on.” Zak said, his eyes darting over to Horner who looked like his blood was going to boil over. 

“No we certainly will not.” Christian jumped in, finally setting off. “It’s in her contract to not join any teams.”

“She hasn’t joined McLaren.” Zak retorted casually but internally wondering why Christian Horner was so well-informed about your contractual obligations.

The Red Bull TP immediately bit back. “She’s training your driver, is she not?” 

“Oscar occasionally spots her in the gym. They’re mates.” Zak shrugged, downplaying the fact that Oscar just this morning had walked in with a new diet plan for him and Andrea to look over that you may or may not have suggested he try for the next three months.

Given your lack of official qualifications, Zak was surprised by how detailed it was with the macro breakdowns and having recipes tailored the local cuisine based on race calendar. He was half tempted to get Lando on it. He would’ve had it gone against Oscar’s 'contract.'

Which boiled down to just this: anything you do for Oscar is for Oscar and Oscar only.

Not McLaren, not F1 - just Oscar Piastri.

“I’m sorry, but the fuck are we talking about?” Guenther jumped in, thoroughly confused as to what was going on.

“About him poaching one of my trainers.” Christian sneered. Guenther frowned, evidently that answer not being enough to explain what was going enough for him. The German looked at Fred who made a motion with his face and hand. Qui sait? Who knows?

However, some not all TPs were at a loss as a smug Toto Wolff finally caught on and joined the conversation. “But she’s not your trainer anymore.” Toto said, ever so casual. Obviously he was enjoying seeing Christian Horner angry about something. 

“It’s against the contract.” Horner bit out. 

“To join any new teams, yes.” Toto countered. Christian's eyes narrowed for a second as he regarded Toto. Everyone's eyes were now on the staring competition between the two fierce rivals.

Save for Domenicali, who took a second to look up at the stars above and consider his life choices. Sitting here amidst the drama, he was just glad his PA reminded him to make sure Netflix wouldn't be here this morning. Dio.

"What?" Toto asked. "You think I wouldn't try to hire the trainer that made Max Verstappen?"

It is with this that Zak Brown finally felt unease settle into his gut as he started to process this. He had heard the rumours - everyone had heard those rumours - but Zak didn't think that the person in all that controversy would actually still remain in the world of Formula 1.

Let alone work in Hospitality.

How F1 even managed to get that to work sent Zak spinning. He had heard of the 'altercation' between Max Verstappen's trainer and father Jos Verstappen in which police was called and Jos was pictured with blood dripping down his face. The trainer's identity was never disclosed due to the investigation but everyone assumed that they were fired and asked to never return to a circuit.

Zak Brown looked at Andrea Stella, two opposing thoughts running through his mind:

Firstly, if Zak could make this work, Oscar Piastri just handed him the gem of getting the trainer that helped built Max Verstappen

However, to make this work - as per this whole meeting - Zak would be facing a lot more than a mere contractual conflict in interest.

Was is really worth it? There had to be a lot more behind Y/N Tessio if being demoted was all the punishment she got for sending Jos Verstappen to hospital.

"McLaren can't hire her." Christian's mention of the team brought Zak out of his head and back to the conversation at hand.

"I can assure everyone there is no McLaren contract." Zak spoke up, "She’s just friends with Oscar. Aussies and all." He added his own joke that fell on deaf ears.

Horner snorted. Not at the joke, but at his own side comment: "Wouldn’t be the first Australian she’s gone for."

Zak frowned at this, unaware of a link to Daniel. Before he could ask, Mike Krack spoke up.

"Who are we talking about?" The Aston Martin TP asked.

"Yes, I would like to know this also." Guenther said, digging his hands into his pockets.

Domenicali took this as his turn to speak. "A Hospitality worker. She worked at Torso Rosso and Red Bull as a trainer with Max until... an incident with Jos occurred. Formula One decided her skillset and knowledge was too valuable to retire her. She agreed to stay on as part of Hospitality on the grounds of remaining distant and impartial." Domenicali looked at Zak. "We've recently heard word that she has become close with one of your drivers."

Zak frowned. "Am I supposed to tell my drivers who they can and can’t be friends with?"

"Ferrari do it all the time." Christian said with a sardonic grin, turning his whole body to look at Fred Vasseur. The man had been silent with a pensive hand to his face. With the attention now on him, he gave the room a wide smile.

"Bah, gentlemen, this is the first I have heard of all this." Fred said with a slightly chuckle.

"Wait," Toto spoke up, staring at Fred. There was a slight crease between his brows and a smile growing on his face. "Stefano, her contract outlines that no new team may hire her, correct?"

"Yes." Domenicali took a deep, heavy, tired sigh. Knowing Toto, and the way he was grinning at Christian Horner, Domenicali worried for the next bomb to drop.

"Exactly, so McLaren can't hire her." Horner spat back.

"Yes, but Ferrari can." Toto spoke, grinning. "Or have we forgotten that before she was Max's trainer, Y/N Tessio grew up with Charles Leclerc."

"Fuck me. This is about her?" Guenther jumped in.

"She helped him debut with Haas, no?" Toto posed the question though he knew the answer.

"She did." Guenther confirmed.

The gentlemen all turned. Somehow the meeting's attention had shifted from Zak Brown to Fred Vasseur. The latter thinking back to 2018 and Charles' first day at Sauber, arriving in some flash JDM car and dressed in some cool looking sneakers.

In his hands, the boy had held a Tupperware container of pancakes.

Australia, 2018

In the private section of the Melbourne Grand Prix parking lot, a black Supra was quietly tucked away with a boy and girl sat in the front, staring at each other. 

“Mais non."

"Mais oui."

You grinned at Charles and ruffled his hair for good measure. It was his first day with Sauber and you were adamant that everything would go right. You had been up since 5am, making sure everything was ready. You had his schedule written down, re-ironed his shirt - there was a slight crease under the left armpit - and made him breakfast. Then you had shook your best friend awake to make sure he had enough time for a morning run before you passed him some limited edition Nike Forces and drove him to Albert Park for his first ever Grand Prix race weekend as a Formula 1 driver.

You both got out of your car and Charles came around to see you stuff something in his backpack. He immediately recognised its contents. 

“Tesora! Pancakes? Encore?” Charles huffed but did nothing as he watched you shove the Tupperware container in his bag. You knew Charles’ schedule better than your own at this point - vaguely in the back of the mind you knew you had to meet Max somewhere - and so you knew he had meetings all day. And you would be damned if he was going to eat that nutritionally deficient piss poor catering Costco sandwich spread Sauber was likely to have on deck. Besides, pancakes were tradition. You had even arranged the strawberries and blueberries to resemble something of a car, you thought.

“Sì. It’s tradition. Vas-y!” You matched Charles’ switch from Italian to English to French. Granted, tesora - Italian for treasure - was just his nickname for you since it was close to your last name. Still, it brought a smile to his face and he shook his head. He accepted his bag and slung it on his shoulders. You both started to make your way to the Paddock entrance. 

“Do you have your lanyard?” You asked.

“Oui, Tesora.” Charles said with a tired smile at you mothering.

However, coming up to the check in, Charles tapped his pockets only to feel nothing. He dug through and you sighed. “It should be in the front zipper.” You said. “That’s where you last put it.” Charles nodded and gave the security guard an apologetic look as he tried to swing the backpack around to reach for the zipper. Seeing the struggle that was about to unfold, you immediately went forward and unzipped the bag for him and pulled it out. 

“Merci.” He said and squeezed your arm in gratitude before tapping in. You followed suit and once in the Paddock, you couldn’t contain your excitement. 

“We’re in Formula 1 together!” You said and shook his arm in wide excitement.

“Oui, Tesora. Grace à toi.” Thanks to you. Your smile grew at Charles’ words. You chucked your arm around his shoulders and ruffled his hair once more before turning ahead. Charles’ height meant you were reaching up slightly but you still had your arm around him. He looked down and smiled at you, you unaware but in a state of excited bliss. Your dream was finally coming true! However, your arm got tired and Charles snorted as you dropped it with a muttering complaint about driver height. 

Noticing his laugh, you frowned. “Oi, no laughing at me.”

“Oi! We are in Australia, non.” He repeated.

“Aye, mate that’s right.” You said, elongating the sounds to emphasise your Australian accent. Charles shook his head and laughed. His English was mild at best and when you did that accent, it was as if you were speaking another language entirely. 

The banter continued through the Paddock as you and Charles went on. A comment about vegemite had him darting away from you trying to kick his feet from under him.

It was at this point that Daniel Ricciardo arrived. 

“Woah! Watch who you’re kicking, Kung Fu Panda.” 

You felt your stomach drop with the butterflies that arrived at the sight of your boyfriend. Even after dating all this time, Daniel still made you feel like it was the first date and you wanted to throw up from nerves.

“Hi.” You said, pulling up short. 

“Hi, yourself.” He said, coming round to wrap his arm around your shoulder. Given that you both were out in the Paddock, that was probably the most PDA you would share. So it was surprising when you pulled back for Daniel to duck down and press a quick peck to your lips. 

“Oh, uh.”

“Charles, hey man.” Daniel acknowledged your best friend who was stood there awkwardly, holding his backpack straps. You looked at Charles and smiled. He really did look like a school kid on their first day. 

“Hello.” Charles greeted. You chewed on your lower lip. It wasn’t lost on you how Daniel still kept an arm around you as he shook Charles’ hand. It also wasn’t lost on you how Charles’ smile didn’t reach his eyes when he shook Daniel’s hand. 

You had hoped that after all this time your best friend and boyfriend would gel a little more. However, for whatever reason, it just didn’t seem the case. When you asked Charles, the answer you got was a dismissive ‘it’s a guy thing’ that you never were able to press further. Daniel was less help as he would just shrug and grin. “I got no problem, babe.” 

And yet, whenever you mentioned Charles, there always was a slight falter to Danny’s grin, a tenseness that settled on his shoulders and an overall vibe that Daniel just wasn’t a fan of you mentioning your best friend, your admittedly male best friend. 

Then again, Max Verstappen had slept on your couch more times than you could count. One time Daniel came to your hotel room to find Max asleep in your bed while you showered. And he had absolutely zero problem with any of that. 

And so, staring between the two drivers, you could only hope that whatever guy thing Charles spoke of didn’t come up on track. 

“Hey Max was looking for you. Said he needs your advice on something.” Daniel said. 

“Okay, let me just see Charles off and I’ll be there.” You smiled pleasantly at your boyfriend.

“Charlie’s a big boy now. He’s a Formula 1 driver.” Daniel said, nodding at your best friend. “Congrats, by the way.”

“Thank you.” Charles said with another of his smiles that he had perfected for the media. You frowned. Then Charles met said frown. “C’est pas grave.” You knew the switch to French was likely in response to the fact that Daniel’s arm was still around you. “I’ll see you later. Message me.”

You really, really didn’t want to leave. This was Charles on his F1 debut.

But he was already set on leaving - since Daniel had no intention to do so.

“Okay.” You said, emphasising the French lilt of the word that Daniel could still understand. It was much of a happy medium as you could manage in the moment. Even with your boyfriend’s arm around you, Charles still came for the both of you to kiss each other’s cheeks. 

“Ah, that French goodbye. How come you never say bye to me like that?” Daniel said with a laugh, steering you away as you and Charles went your own ways. His hand dropped down to grab yours and you looked down at it curiously

“Would you like me to say goodbye like that?” You asked. 

“I would like kisses.”

“Noted.” You said with a flaming face. Sometimes it still shook you that this man - the Daniel Ricciardo - was your boyfriend. “Hey, by the way, since when did we start with the PDA?”

“Since the beautiful Australian sun is shining down on this Grand Prix season opener where I am feeling lucky.”

“Oh, are you?”

“Yeah, in more ways than one.” He wiggled his eyebrows. Your face became hot - and not just because of the weather. “Come on, you can’t say you don’t want all of this.”

Your response was to push him away. Daniel’s laughter only rang out as he went for your waist. He pulled you to him and made loud kissing noises that just made you laugh. You both arrived at the Red Bull garage where Max was talking with Gianpiero Lambiase and Christian Horner. 

“Ah, the lovebirds have arrived.” Christian said as GP smirked at you. The race engineer Max had been given was someone you had immediately clicked with. Unlike some (most) of the Red Bull staff, you liked GP because he had a sense of maturity about him that you hoped Mx would learn from. That and GP didn’t get intimidated with Max’s tantrums.

And dealing with Verstappens, it bodes well to not get easily intimidated. 

“How was Leclerc’s drop off?” GP said as he came forward to bump fists with you. You had texted him that you were going to be late today. 

“It was good.” You nodded, not wanting to give too much away. Even though Charles was another driver on the grid that Red Bull would be looking to beat - and would given an Adrian Newey Red Bull versus a Sauber - you still wanted to protect Charles as much as possible. Even if it meant within your own team.

Daniel chimed in, joking. “Had to go rescue her from the enemy but she’s back home now.”

“Good man.” Christian said, patting him on the shoulder. “Shall we go to your garage and get you set up.” Christian nodded at you and you nodded back. Daniel winked and let his boss lead him to the other side of the garage. You watched them walk, your eyes then landing on Max to the side, quietly sitting by himself as he observed the many engineers working on his car. 

“Had a visit from dad recently.” You looked to where GP had a hand over his headphone’s mic and was leaning in to whisper to you. “It’s too hot to be wearing a jacket.”

You had noticed that too. It was a warm day but Max had his thick Red Bull parka on. You met GP’s eyes and realised that you both probably had the same sad and worried looks on both your face. You nodded at GP and he left, going to speak with some mechanics and you walked forward to where a young 21 year old boy sat. Hurt. 

“You good, Max?”

He looked up at you and nodded. Then his eyes went back to the car. You sighed once more. “Come on, I think it’s time for a track walk.”

“We have a meeting in an hour.”

“So we better walk fast, then.” You grinned. Max looked up at you. “I’ll message GP. Come on, I want to get a coffee on the way.” You tried again, reaching to flick at his cap. He nodded and then stood up. “We’ll be back!” You called out and walked out into the sun filled Paddock. You grabbed your coffee - Max getting a Red Bull - and arrived at somewhat empty track.

“Most drivers are doing their walk tomorrow morning. It’ll be empty.” Max understood your words and silently handed you his Red Bull to hold so he could slip out of the jacket. You couldn’t see anything on his forearms. 

You took the jacket out of his hands and passed him the Red Bull can. “Let me hold this.” You said to him. You would hold the jacket, you would it all for Max. Anything you could do to lighten the load of the young driver who still looked every bit the scared 16 year old you picked up from the petrol station all those years ago. 

“He, um. He grabbed my arm really tight. There’s this big bruise. And I know some people are starting to catch on and I don’t want them to see and think I’m still a baby who needs to be disciplined.”

You sipped on your coffee as you listened to Max. He was your driver and your training was more than just physical. You would be there for him in anyway that he needed. You always did. There wasn’t much you wouldn’t do for him to see him succeed, to see him happy. 

Hence why the next time you caught Jos Verstappen laying a hand on Max, you didn’t hold back. 

In the present day, Fred Vasseur sat at the pit wall. He kept a watchful eye on the times of one Australian rookie all throughout the race weekend here in Jeddah, one of the hardest tracks on the calendar.

He outperformed his teammate. And the car.

Oscar Piastri finished 9th.

Later that night when walking through the Paddock to go home after all the post-race debrief and meetings, Fred Vasseur would happen on seeing a girl run into Oscar's arms.

You, the one who made those mini pizzas.

You hugged the rookie tight with one hand, holding something in the other. Even from a distance, Fred Vasseur could guess what was in the plate.

Pancakes.

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[strawbearrrry]

Rainy Afternoon 🌧

Karma x Reader One shot 🍓🍥

✮Type~Fluff

✮Character~Karma Akabane

✮Context~Karma comes by unannounced on a rainy Sunday afternoon

✮Song~You're here that's the thing

𓍊𖦹𓋼꩜☆꩜𓋼𖦹𓍊

It had been raining all day you were covered in fluffy blankets laying in your bed, listening to the rain hit your window. Your parents aren't home so it's just you and your cat Pepper alone, you almost fall asleep but then you hear a knock on the door

Pepper lifts his head up the same time you turn your head looking pit your door, it's weird your parents aren't supposed to be home early, and even so they have keys.

You place your book down on the your blanket and walk down stairs, you stand on the tip of your toes and look through the little hole in your door

"Karma?"

You unlock and open the door seeing your boyfriend, soaked and a bit bloody.

"Hey gorgeous~" he smiles

"What happened!?" You quickly pull him inside then walk twords the closest at the end of the hallway, leaving him at the entrance

"What?" He spoke as if it was any other day looking down the hallway for you

You quickly come back with a towel dragging him to a chair and making him sit down as you begin to dry his hair

"You know what, did you think I'd just ignore the fact you're wet and bloody!?" You scold him

"Chill most of it's not my blood" he stares at you with a smile "you're so pretty"

Even though most of it's not his blood you can still see some cuts and bruises

"Stop trying to kiss ass!" You glare at him but still find yourself blushing at his words

You sigh looking into his eyes with a serious expression "what happened"

He smirks and pecks you on the lips

"Karma"

"Fine" he sighs "I just got into a fight"

"Obviously" you set the towel on the table behind him and walk into the bathroom opening the medicine cabinet "go ahead and tell me I'm listening"

"Well.." He drags it out "I ran into some people from school and they were talking about you"

"What?" You question walking out of the bathroom with the first aid kit sitting next to him and taking his hand so you can bandage it up "what were they saying about me?"

"Dumb shit they pulled out of their asses" he sounded upset thinking back to it

Rumors have been spread about you since you dumped Gakushu so you're not surprised, but you decide not to press on it any longer seeing how much it upset him.

You sigh "I appreciate you defending me but you need to stop fighting, sooner or later you'll get expelled"

He scoffs "they can't expel me it wasn't even on school property"

You sigh once again though it wasn't on school property knowing principle Asano and how much he hates 3-E (and you) you don't doubt he'll try and find a way to get Karma in trouble just to upset you. You're caught up in your thoughts till you feel Karma cup your cheeks

"Hello, earth to (Y/n)?" He starts to squish your cheeks now

"Sorry Karma, I was just thinking" you look away from him with a bit of a pout

He frowns then leans in closer as your foreheads touch. You close your eyes, preparing for a kiss but instead you feel him pinch your cheek

You glare at him and rub your cheek

"Welp I'm gonna change" he gets up, he usually stays at your house so he ends up leaving shirts and stuff over here all the time, and the clothes he's wearing now are soaked

He goes upstairs and you lay your head on the table, almost falling asleep.. Well you did fall asleep but only for like three minutes! Then you feel paws on your head, you look up a bit and see two little black paws. You sigh petting pepper

"What am I gonna do with him?"

"Whatever you want princess" you feel arms wrap around you and you're suddenly picked up and thrown over his shoulder

"Karma put me down!" You gently punch his back and your legs swing slightly causing a curious pepper to swat at your pink fluffy socks like they were flies

"If you insist" he shrugs and acts as if he's going to drop you

"WAIT!"

He chuckles "don't worry princess I'd never drop you" he holds now holds you bridal style and walks upstairs into your room "I've thought about it though"

"Karma" you groan

He smiles setting you on the bed then kisses your forehead, he lays down and cuddles with you

You smiles sweetly at him and miss his cheek where a band aid was "I love you Karma"

His smile stays, he's always happy when with you it's almost impossible to be upset. He strokes your hair and kisses your lips "I love you too"

And the rest of your rainy afternoon was spent with kisses and cuddles, listening to the rain hit your window