#volatile work environments

[productiveandfree]

Lone Worker Safety Solutions - Identify Which Ones Your Business Needs

Choosing a lone worker safety solution can be tricky.

There are myriad devices on the market, each of which offers slightly different protections and comes into its own in different work environments.

ATEX handsets, for example, are perfect when working with hazardous and explosive materials because they are industry-standard inflammable devices.

In other, less volatile work environments, a more lightweight device or safety app might be the way to go when it comes to lone worker safety.

So how do you select the right lone worker solution for your employees?

Let’s find out.

Map the Geography

Both the geography and topography of a work site should be taken into account when identifying which lone worker safety device is most appropriate.

In remote areas with patchy or unreliable communications networks, you’re not going to be able to rely on WIFI or the mobile phone network to keep in contact with lone workers.

Instead, you may need to deploy a lone worker communications network that exploits the power of a technology such as DECT to maintain contact.

DECT involves installing dedicated routers around a work site, allowing auto-switching as the worker traverses the site and ensures the lone worker always has a robust signal.

In geographies where the communications network is more reliable, Wi-Fi-connected or mobile phone devices might be more appropriate. 

These don’t need the dedicated equipment of DECT but instead use a site’s existing WIFI or mobile network to keep the lone worker in touch with colleagues.

Identify Worker Needs

The lone worker’s needs should be at the front of your mind when adopting a safety technology.

It’s all very well having the best-in-class safety equipment, but if it doesn’t suit the worker or their work environment, it can be more of a hindrance than a help.

So, for example, it’s important to take into account the nature of the lone worker’s tasks when shopping around for safety solutions – perhaps the worker needs to keep their hands free while out on a job, so a bulky device might not be the way to go.

Instead, in such circumstances, a lone worker app running on a belt-worn smart device or even a simple personal alarm attached to a lanyard might be a more appropriate bit of kit.

Weigh up the Technology

Finally, when identifying which lone worker solution is best for you, it’s best to familiarise yourself with all the lone worker tech available.

A company such as ANT Telecom offers a range of state-of-the-art lone worker safety solutions.

The main options include:

Lone Worker Apps and Devices: These are both cost-effective and convenient as they don’t need any specialized equipment to work and come with a host of safety features, such as on-screen SOS buttons and true man-down detection.

Digitally Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT): Ideal for sites with poor mobile coverage and where the lone worker is expected to move about the site and keep in touch with colleagues.

Voice Over WiFi (VoWiFi): Utilizes existing WiFi networks to provide the lone worker with a voice channel to communicate with colleagues.

Two-way Radio: Ideal where the lone worker can’t rely on WIFI or digital communications channel.  Also a good option where extended battery life is required.

Push-to-Talk Over Cellular (PoC): This offers a two-way radio-style communications channel but uses modern digital technology to deliver the messages, so it can be operated conveniently via compatible smartphones and devices.

Conclusion

Choosing the right lone worker safety solution can be a bit of a headache.

But by assessing the main risks, understanding the worksite geography and weighing up the available technology, it’s possible to identify the tech that will keep all your lone workers safe.

Share in the comments below: Questions go here

[grugruel]

Sleeping With the Enemy

Pairings: Silco x f!reader

MDNI/NSFW

Masterlist

Summary: You're a councillors daughter secretly working with the Eye of Zaun, fulfilling each other's needs.

Political needs, of course. It's purely business. They would never be stupid enough to start an affair . . . Unless?

Wordcount: ca 3.5k

Warnings: enemies AND lovers, hate-fucking, toxic, Silco being evil, angsty, pinv sex, rough sex, power imbalance, fighting for control, complicated feelings, twisted love, forbidden relationship, dacryphilia ish, cockwarming, blowjob, fingering, edging, overstimulation, choking, cum eating, creampie, petnames (girl, princess, devil, Sil)

AN: yet to be proofread. This might be one of my favourite works, he's insane . . . I need him.

"Let go off me," she snarls, yanking mirthlessly against the strong womans grip. "Release me Sevika, or-"

"Or what?" She cuts the girl off with a sneer, metallic fingers sinching around her bicep. Sevika holds her close enough to force the girl to stare up through her eyebrows if she wants to achieve any semblance of eye contact.

"Or she tells her precious father," the man cuts in, a nonchalant smile to his tone.

"He doesn't know I'm here," the girl snaps, defiantly locking eyes with the industrialist. Clad in shadow, he's a mere silhouette backlit by Zaun's streets. "He doesn't know anything."

Picking up a brand new cigar, he clips the end and flicks a lighter open, toying with the flame. All in due time, he's not rushing to spoil such a favored treat.

"Good," he says and gestures dismissively, signaling his trusty henchman to leave.

Sevika releases the girl with a displeased huff and slams the door behind her. The only thing she likes less than piltovians, is them wandering too far from their fabricated safety and ending up on her doorstep.

She watches the muscular woman leave, staring at the closed door in contemplation as she once again finds herself alone with the eye of Zaun.

Something clatters behind her, a lighter discarded on a desk. "You're late," he mutters, bringing the smoking cigar to his lips.

Anger begins to blaze inside her. That's it? That's all he has to say? "Six enforcers are dead," she snaps, nose scrunching. Disgusted by the mere thought of that demon's violence. "She's a loose canon, Silco. She blew them up for the hell of it."

From the dark, a red orb slips her way. He leans forward, having the rooms gloomy light illuminate his face only to throw the girl a disapproving look, barely deeming it worthy to look her in the eyes. "You forget yourself, girl."

Swallowing, she forces herself to calm down. Aggrivating such a volatile man never proved a good idea, and displaying anger against his daughter proved even worse.

Carefully, she ventures closer. Testing the waters and finding them thick as mud. The very air around him emenates danger, and her body slows down, relucant to put itself in such unpredictable environments. "You broke our deal," she announciates, finding it safer to put the blame on him rather than the blue haired demon he protects so ferociously.

"You disrupted our shipment," he repeats her ridiculous attempt. "It's simple business. Collateral," he shrugs and gestures toward her, vaguely implying the deaths should be on the girls consience. He doesn't say it outright because he doesn't need to, because he doesn't care if it hurts her feelings. Because, he doesn't care about the lost lives of a few topsiders, lives of enforcers even less. In true rebel spirit.

Massively unimpressed, he sizes her up when she places herself on the other side of the desk. Gripping the edge, the wood is tough beneath her fingers as she strains to keep herself in check. Blue and green light his back, lining the countours around his body. It softens him in some ways, as if the light hasn't completely shunned him yet.

Suddenly smirking, Silco's gaze drifts over her. Studying her tense disposition with spiteful glee as he enjoys the irony of a murderous piltovian. "Contemplating violence wont relieve you of this predicament."

"Killing you would."

"Threatening me so early in the morning?" He tsks, taking a deep drag of the cigar to then blow a ring of smoke in her direction. "Perhaps I should have approached your father instead, the councillor would've been easier to handle . . . More willing to please."

Keeping eye contact, she doesn't react, and a glint of cuiosity to sparks in his gaze. "He has nothing to do with this, and you know it," she tries again. "But Jin-"

Silco's smirk falls. "Hold your tongue, girl." Pinching the bridge of his tall nose, he releases a heavy sigh. "Lock the door," he orders, looking at her through his eyebrows.

Menacing, haunting. She could describe him with a hundred different horrific words. Yet, he doesn't scare her. They both know she's right.

Breathing relief, she does as she's told. When asking her to create a boundary between the world and this room, he shows her nothing has changed. Whatever they have remains within the confines of his office and her bedroom. It takes the edge off, and she lets the inhabiting worry slip away.

Upon her return, she softly stalks around the desk until sidled up against the short side. "Shoving clever words down my throat won't shut me up, Sil."

Rubbing his face, he looks at her through his fingers. Heavily disapproving of the nickname. "Dont tempt me," he warns. "I'll find other ways to shut you up."

She swallows, a single pulse throbs in her core. Moving around the desk, she slides a finger along it's edge and places herself infront of him, bathing her in the very same darkness that Silco finds himself in.

A small smirk flicker on his lips. But even though it dissolves, turning back into its usual serious mask, the satisfaction of the expression linger on his features.

"It cant happen again," he warns a third time, he must going soft on her. His hands move, trading the cigar for the the ability to touch her. One hand reaches for her thigh, sliding beneath her skirt. While the other reaches up, grabbing her chin to stare into her eyes. "The shipments are important." Silco applies just enough pressure on her chin to keep it stinging, just enough to understand that he didn't take the loss lightly. While the thumb beneath her skirt brushes lightly over her hipbone.

Inspite their predicaments, their relationship was business from the beginning and the majority still is. He tells her this through the contrasting touches.

She nods.

"Use your words, girl. Tell me you understand. This cant happen again."

But she won't concede, not yet. "No more attacks," she murmurs, placing her hands on his thighs. "No more deaths." The girl sinks to her knees, slowly, and making sure he keeps his gaze glued to hers. Being so close to him, she gets a whiff of his cologne. He smells of musk and wood, Smoke and whiskey. He smells of man.

They know what buttons to press when it comes to one another, and right now, she needs safety for her people in much the same way he needs independence for his. The difference laying within their methods of accomplishment. But looking at them now, it's clear they've got more in common than she's previously thought.

Silco spreads his legs further apart, welcoming her advancements. "I wonder what daddy dearest would say if he saw you now; that pretty princess of his . . . Negotiating on her knees." He slides a hand beneath hers, lacing their fingers together before leaning back in his chair to enjoy the show.

It's a small sign of fondness, one he confidently gives. Showing his inclination toward her means little, for they already know where they have each other. Unwilling to put it into words, they feel them silently.

Truth is, they enjoy the power imbalance, they enjoy the hatred their respective people share. Peculiarly, it unites them, and simultaneously fuel their polarity. They're a strange equation, two variables with a common sum.

Helping each other with free hands, they unbutton his pants. "Im sure he'd be proud of your devotion," he mocks, exhaling that infamous low chuckle.

Spitting into her hand, she reaches into his pants. "He'd share the pride with your people," she smiles and looks up at him innocently, pulling his member out. "–when they find out you're working with a councillor's daughter . . . Fucking her no less." She leans in, teasing his tip with a slow circling lick, gathering the pre-cum on her tongue. With a corner curving upward, his lips part, and there's a silent intake of breath. Brushing his hand along her cheek, he collects stray hair covering her face and gathers it at her neck, twirling it around his fingers. "Go on," he urges.

And so, she finally closes the distance and takes him in her mouth.

With a hiss, he squeezes the hand laced with his. Slender fingertips dig into the back of her hand. "Little devil," he groans, hand burrying deeper into her hair and balling into a fist, coincidentally pulling on her scalp.

Clasping her still spit-wet hand around his shaft, she strokes him, adding on to the bobbing of her head.

"Yes," he moans, reclining his head against the back of the chair. "Carry on, girl."

Im sync with her hand, she works him until he's close to squirming, trying his very best to keep a semblance of composure. Never did she think such a powerful man would tremble beneath her touch or the pressure of her lips. But here he was, his usual neat combed back hair fallen over his forehead, beads of sweat gathering on his temples.

He'd started using his hand to guide her head, helping her find the perfect path toward his climax. Chest heaving and teeth bared, he chuckles breathlessly as the squelching of their actions reach his ears. Pushing her too far, she makes half-choking noises when she takes his entire length down her throat. Causing saliva to spill out of her mouth and roll down his length.

"Sloppy," he snarls, manicured nails digging into her hand. "-used to sucking cock."

She whines from the rare usage of crude words, making her core purr. His inches twitch in her mouth, sensing how close he is. "Please me," he supresses a groan, calling her name. "Swallow."

It happens quickly. His breathing turns rapid, his hips arching as he spills into her mouth. Tasting of rich salt as she swallows.

Smirking devilishly, he catches his breath. "Thats it . . . Well done." He brushes his thumb along her index finger.

Joy trickles into her heart at the praise, but there is little room as her body is already filled to the brim by need. With heavy eyes and glistening lips, she stands up on her knees. "Kiss me," she whispers.

Unlacing their fingers, he moves to slide a thumb across her lips, gathering some of the milky seed she'd yet to swallow. "Open up, princess." He pulls on her hair to tilt her head back.

Her lips part automatically, a knife slicing through her pride at the irony of the name. Silco slips his thumb into her mouth and wipes it clean on her tongue. He watches with fascination as her lips close around the digit, volunteering to suck it off as he pulls it out. "Kiss me," she repeats.

The fingers still burried in her hair twitches at the sight. Acting on impulse, they bunch her waves, pulling her close enough for their lips to play ghost. He tilts his head to the side, bringing them impossibly closer. "Tell me you understand," he murmurs, watching her reaction as the featherlight touch tickles her lips.

Her expectations for the night and the soft shell of intimacy around them shatters, but she'll never give him the satisfaction. The kiss was a wish from her own selfish needs, but giving him what he wants without the safety she require for her people is not. "No."

With a harrowing glance, he releases her. "I have work to do, you know where the door is," Silco says, nodding toward the exit. He then runs his hand through his hair, combing it back into place.

So quickly is the mood ruined and the rush of lust diminishes, settling her nerves. Instead it is the annoyance and the anger she arrived with that begins to rebuild.

The girl scoffs. "Petty, man-child," she mumbles, keeping her voice beneath her breath. But she wants something from him too, anything. She's derserves it, it just the matter of taking it.

Then, something just clicks in her mind and an irruption takes control of her body. Narrowing her eyes in quick to non-existent contemplation, she grabs his collar and pulls him in for a kiss. It only lasts for a second before she pushes herself away and stands up, not planning to stick around to deal with the consequences.

But before she gets a chance to move too far, a hand grabs her forearm and yanks her back. "You stubborn girl," he whispers in her ear, an arm slung around her torso as Silco holds her against his chest. She feels her panties being pulled to the side, and the head of his member lining up with her core. "Bleeding your integrity dry for those imperious, self-important cretins." He teases her entrance, sliding the tip up and down her folds.

"I am one of them, or do you forget?" She snaps.

Without warning, he lowers her onto his inches, fitting them inside her like they've been molded. The girl gasps at the feeling and Silco's fingers curl, releasing a groan as his fingers rouch the fabric at her ribs. "Even now?" He adjusts the girl in his lap. "Would they deign to descend from their thrones as you? Stooping to my level, manipulating on a whim to fullfill your needs." He pulls her closer, nudging her profile with his. All the while he's got his still hard member pushed up inside her, soft walls of flesh welcoming him eagerly. "Would they still accept you when found-out, or will they throw you to the wolves as the rumours spread? When they find out Zaun's villainous crime lord is fucking Piltover's princess," he laces the words with venom, hands slipping upward. One stops at her breast to squeeze while the other clasps around her throat. "When they whisper of the ways he uses her. How he puts her on her back, makes her kneel . . . How he bends her over," he murmurs, sending shivers down her spine.

She grows dizzy, a mix of worry and pleasure clouding her senses. His words hit home, drawing her lips into a thin line. "They are still my people," she breathes, voice close to breaking, sunding more like she's trying to convince herself.

"They will be your downfall." He puts pressure on her throat. "We've made sure of that, you and I."

"No . . . Silco, that's not true."

The hand holding her breast slips beneath her skirt. "We've made our beds-" slender fingers find her clit. "And we will sleep with the consequences."

Head lulling back against his shoulder, back arching, pleasure spikes as he stimulates her thrice fold. Circling her clit while throbbing inside her, and acting catalyst is the experienced hand around her throat. It limits the bloodflow and multiplies her pleasure. "Fuck," she whimpers, hips squirming, flesh randomly spasming around him.

Silco groans at the sensation, gaining his own pleasure from the whole ordeal. But that is not his goal. "Be still," he warns.

The collossall amounts of pleasure blinds her, it grabs hold of her senses and refuses to let go. Her nerves burn and fingers curl. Its all too much, yet not enough. Tears of gather in her eyes, slowly spilling over to roll down her face. "A-almost . . ."

Silco adjusts his grip around her throat so uses his thumb to tilt her face toward him, then watches how the tears streak her makeup, leaving watered down mascara in their wake. He places his lips on her skin, kissing the tears away while enjoying their salty taste. He studies her rosy cheeks and knitted expression, memorising the small whimpers she breathes.

The girl can no longer keep still and her back prepares to arch, limbs preparing to surge with blinding hot pleasure. "Im-- mhh, I-" She mewls, and the knot releases.

. . .

Until it isn't. She feels Silco retract his hands, causing oxygen flood her brain and irritation to anchor her mind. The knot in her stumach re-ties, loosely adjusting until the pressure completely dies down. "I see callousness runs in the family," she complains, almost in pain from the sudden lack of stimulation.

Silco circles an arm around her waist. "It's essential to survive," he says and stands up, still swollen member slipping out of her. Supporting the girl as her knees wobble, she's unable to stand on her own due to the afflictions he's caused her. Turning her around, he helps her onto the desk. Chest to chest, he braces against the wood, one hand on either side of her, effectively boxing her in.

She lays a finger beneath his chin, and he looks up at her through his eyebrows. Exhaling, he moves between her thighs. Silco reaches out to her, loosely cupping her face as his thumb smears the streaked mascara. "There is no white knight," he says, pushing reality on her, weather she's willing to listen or not.

She nods. "I know." Tainted by the impure air of Zaun, branded by the touch of it's Eye. If she ever is to be saved, it must be by her own hand. Her smile is faint as her eyes fall from his.

He grabs her face and squeezes her cheeks. "Look at me," he tells her with a gravely tone. Their eyes lock. Dissappering between them, his other hand lines himself up with her core.

Taking a gamble, she grabs his tie and pulls him in, properly locking lips for the first time. Because he doesn't pull away, and neither does she. Her bottom lips begins to tremble, surprised he ever let it go this far. Their initial moment passes, evolving into seconds until they realise neither is breathing and they tear apart for much needed air, not straying far. Their lips hover, ghosting as previously. "You steal whats not your's to take."

She nudged his nose with her own. "Does survival not apply here? I never took you for a hypocrite."

His top lip twitches, and she feels him bare his teeth in a silent snarl as his fingers apply pressure to her cheeks. "How clever," he murmurs, and pushes inside her once again, catching her off guard.

They share a reflexive gasp, and as he starts to move, every thrust exchanges breaths between them. The girl's lips curve, heavily enjoying the tiny sliver of emotional intimacy he's finally giving her.

Her legs circle around his hips as he grabs her waist one handed, adding further levrage as his fingers dent her flesh. Silco starts a heavy pace and their lips reconnect, mirroring their bodies, it reflects their feelings. The kiss growing needy and rough.

"Get on your back for me," he mocks and releases her face. "Prove them right."

She bites his lip, tugging on it as she lies back against the desk and pulls him with her.

Hand suddenly free, he hooks it beneath her knee and pulls it up against his side to gai better access. Slowing down the pace, he manages to take her deeper, harder. She groans, head lulling to the side as her climax begins to build. "Dont stop." Not again.

"Look at me," he breathes, warning in his tone as he's inclined to watch her topple over the edge. Her brows knit together, but her gaze finds his. The knot closing as his thrusts begin to grow erratic.

Pleasure burns her fingers and quickens her pulse. "Close, c-" she begins, but he cuts her off with another kiss, tongue slipping between their lips to explore her mouth.

And just like that, she bursts. Traveling through her from top to toe. Silco following short thereafter. "It's alright . . . Good, girl," he whispers.

Once they've caught up with their breaths, Silco straightens out, and rearranges his clothes before helping her to her feet.

-

"I understand," she says, halting by the door.

He looks up from his seat but is quick to stand, slowly stalking toward her. Stopping just short of her smaller frame, he reaches behind her back to grab the door handle. "I don't control her. She is my daughter like you are your father's," he says and meets her eyes. "But I will speak to Jinx." Leaning down, he kisses her cheek, catching her off guard. Affection is newly discovered territory between them, but from him to give it so freely after battling it out is a very big surprise. But as quick as ot started, it's over. His soft expression morphing into his usual stern disposition. "Dont be late again girl," he says and opens the door.

-

Somehow, they've become entangled. Silently sharing affection their respective people would deem unfit. Silco wont hurt her, if he can help it. But such is nature. They'll stand on opposite sides, prioritising their own families, cities. But not without a thought of the other, wishing it could be different. It probably never will be, for such is faith and such is time. If only it could rewind.

-

[psalidodont]

'' The Flailibut, a horrible dragon with two eyes on one side of its face and with none on the other. Amongst other terrors, the Flailibuts are one of the more less ''tamer'' dragons, and by that i mean... dangerous. They can change colors quite quickly and pretend to be part of their environment, often associated with cold forests and swamps. Shouting loudly and making screeching noises causes their ''disguise'' to wear off, as they dont seem to enjoy abrupt, loud sounds. Definitely one of the more rare dragons during raids despite how common they are out there. Such is the life of this miserable hellspawn, starting out with one eye in their respective side and then as it ages, one will slowly shift towards the other side. Kill on sight, their flesh is inedible but their scales make for good armory and medicine. Class: Volatile Firepower: Strong Venom: X Speed: Moderate, wing walker... capable of bursts of movement on land. Blindspot: Loud noises should do the job, attacking its blind side can also work, scent lures seem to keep them distracted. ''

[theempressofthenile]

astro thoughts - short n sweet: all about mars

Mars in 1st house - These individuals have a strong presence to their aura. These people could be workaholics as far as being in the gym goes. They could have a lot of energy to get things done so they can seem pretty intimating around people who don't have strong martian energy. They can be scapegoated because their boldness tends to rub people off the wrong way.

Mars in the 2nd house - A passion for getting the things they want with little to no effort. Hard work pays off. They dont have time to waste on mundane things, they simply want to relax but it seems too much for them sometimes. I say for this group, give yourself that time to chillax for a bit... the world aint what it seems sometimes.

Mars in the 3rd house - Could have a lot of outbursts from time to time, they feel things just a little differently than others and could be pretty opinionated. They have a lot of use for people who can debates with them on topics. They need someone who can go toe to toe with them at times, or else they'll get bored. They are very fast learners. Could also have a thousand hobbies because none of them could keep them occupied enough, and thats okay.

Mars in the 4th house - Could be overstimulated with family issues as this placement can make them the scape goat/black sheep. They are not afraid to say whats on their mind. There could also have been volatile experiences growing up in the house, so their a little open to having gentle partners/friendships because the toxic environment could have left them strifled.

Mars in the 5th house - These people like to live life on the edge, they need something to get them out of their racing mind. There quick learners just like the 3rd house babes, and they need someone who can match their fly. Could be a sex maniac with this placement. Needs someone who they can be passionate with.

Mars in the 6th house - WORKAHOLICS... please. just get some rest. What I love about this placement is that they NEVER STOP UNTIL THEY GET WHAT THEY WANT. They are powerhouses for sure. Because they wont eat, sleep,relax until they get the results. Literally blood sweet and tears is their motto.. They gotta get it done one way or another.

Mars in the 7th house - Incredible sex drive. Just like their friends in the 5th house, they need someone who can bring them passionate energy. They can bring the house down with their fiery energy alone, but they need someone to match their flow or else they will run that individual to the ground. It be like that sometimes.The more mars energy the more this can be a problem.

Mars in the 8th house - Damn. Damn. Damn!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is probably one of the best placements to have with mars because 1. its in its rightful house (it is a ruler of scorpio). They're sex appeal is powerful. It will have anyone dropping to their knees. They are psychologically aware of people and their intentions and they can use this to their advantage. Dark feminine energy is a strong aspect for this placement. I could go on, but decided to keep it cute for now lol.

Mars in the 9th house - May have a tendency to travel outside of their homeland at some point in their life. This is necessary for their growth as an individual. They need to be alone more than usually so they can see the world from a different point of view. They are very intelligent creatures and give their all to know more than what they've been given in their short time span on this earth. They have a gift at teaching people how to navigate life through their own lense. Its a difficult path to say the least, because they always have to be confident in the face of trouble. But they always come abck out with ease.

Mars in the 10th house - Strong presence. Very practical nature. Has issues with the public eye from time to time. Could master the art of thought and can handle any situation most would crumble in. The life they lead isn't for the weak. It seems like they have an arrow on their back from time to time, but to no avail they use the energy to their advantage at some point. Great leaders, could have jealous friends/associates around them so they must be cautious.

Mars in the 11th house - LIke their friends in the tenth house, they are also really good at leadership. In their friend groups they can be considered the 'alpha' or the person who tends to plan out things or just knows what to do in general. It reminds me of blossom in the power puff girls to say the least. Their capable of taking on goals and commitments most people probably couldn't take. Just be careful you don't wanna make them mad. They can have a lot of disputes with friends and associates for the wrong reasons.

Mars in the 12th house - Mind over matter. Thats their theme. They could have a lot of issues with people and this could seem out of no where. A lot of hidden enemies with this placement :( It seems like no one likes them but they have a raw special energy to them thats hard to ignore. A lot of people do want to be around them but for some reason they can sort of despise them and it could be something subconscious and this is where a lot of the hidden hate comes from. This group has to be more open to the heart than most because its easier to shut back down after always being around people who use them for their personal gain.

let me know what you think :)

[justabeewithapen]

Sniling so widely at the critters

What’s the dynamic when Doey, Lucas, and Bella are together?

GRINNING SO BIG BACK AT YOU!!! I have so much I am so sorry here, have a doodle before I throw you into the read more:

Their dynamic is very much like siblings. There is definitely a reason they usually only use one at a time as being in a group together emboldens all three of them. It is hard to fully describe the change, but when they are all together you can actually tell they are kids, they act like kids. Being put together is generally a reward for particularly good behavior (conditioning always works better if you mix both positive and negative reinforcement, even if they lean negative) and VERY OCCASIONALLY they are allowed things like crayons or books. Lucas has self proclaimed himself the older brother of their squad which he takes very seriously, which really doesn't mean very much besides the fact he is very loud, loves to "older sibling" brag (make stuff up haha), and thinks he is really funny. He is the one that gets the energy going in a room, and if there is a tussle it's probably his fault. Bella is a very obvious contrast to that, she is quiet and would much rather go with the flow of whatever is happening than take charge like Lucas. However, I think she is hiding a sneaky side under there that doesn't come out very often, but if given the chance to grow up normally she would probably enjoy pranks and get away with them. She likes to draw and she likes listening to stories. She's much stronger than she looks, Lucas knows this first hand (if Doey was in a normal situation/environment he would probably know her "wrath" too.) Doey has the most noticeable shift, and it would be even more if he wasn't in his current circumstances. (I wrote a ton a ton here but I think I'll save it for a second post). It's kinda hard to explain? Big ole' "it depends" I suppose? Sometimes he is more in-line with Lucas, more mischievous and playful, liberally using his abilities to make up for their lack of playthings. Sometimes it is more like a contented air where he will just sit and listen while the other two do their own thing, but he'll still be an active part of conversation. They talk a lot, all three of them, there aren't many occasions where they can talk and feel listened to. Even Bella who is more quiet. It's the only opportunity for play they ever get, unlike some of the experiments in other sections of the building. Obviously if things are not great(tm) for one of them the energy mellows out more, but even if it isn't acknowledged they treat these opportunities like it will be the last time it ever happens. I don't even know if I answered the question right at this point T-T I have been typing and retyping this for hours at this point. It's like, I know it but I don't know how to say it. They act like siblings, sibling who are keenly aware they are all each other has, while still being themselves as much as they can while they have the chance. Being able to all be together without having to worry if anyone is alright genuinely is a reward for them, and it just makes punishments more effective. I think they used to be more reserved, especially Doey who is very keenly aware of being observed like 24/7, but it wasn't worth caring about, they didn't have that luxury. It probably freaked the hell out of several scientists observing him who are generally more used to "Perpetual glower", or "intentionally trying to push your buttons", and on good days "quiet compliance". He got along with critters in places like the courtyard, but he was generally avoided by other toys because he is massive and scary looking, when he walks the ground literally shakes in game. It would be worth looking into more to find a less volatile way to control him, if he wasn't considered such a liability and didn't already have a body count pre-HOJ Man I hope this doesn't suck to read TwT sorry for the messy word vomit here!!

[cursedcola]

Discussion: "The Prophecy of Twisted Godhood" <- A reimagining of Twisted Wonderland through Greek Mythology. Where instead of a world based on Disney - Yuu is sent to a school meant to train demigods in another realm. Dormitories: Heartslabyul (here) || Savanaclaw || Octavanille || Scarabia || Pomefiore || Ignihyde || Diasomnia || Ramshackle (full lore and main plot outline) || Others Notes: Hey everyone - believe it or not, this was the original idea back when I started working on my TWST otome. I went a more traditional route since I wanted more of an immersive product...but I still have all of these ideas, y'know? So why not share them since I won't be making it into a game. Character designs and comics might come if i ever want to add more

Premise: The Prophecy of the Gods’ Reawakening

At NRC on the Isle of Gods, a prestigious institution built upon the ruins of ancient temples, Yuu (the protagonist) is just another student. However, Yuu’s, a supposed ‘godless human’, arrival is no accident—there’s an ancient prophecy surrounding them that foretells the fall of all gods, threatening the balance between the mortal and divine worlds.

The gods, once all-powerful, are losing their grip over their domains. Their children, the demigods, have become restless, each facing the expectations of their divine parentage while undergoing trials at NRC. The mortals are unaware of the ancient forces at play, but Yuu is caught in the center of this storm by ‘chance’ with no power to return to their realm. As they unravel the ties between the demigods, Yuu discovers that their very existence could either restore the gods' reign or bring about their ultimate downfall.

The students of Night Raven College, in this realm known as Nether Realms College, split into seven dormitories, each reflect different aspects of the divine legacy that they inherit. Each dorm conflict mirrors a myth or curse, and Yuu must navigate these volatile relationships and broken alliances, all while uncovering their own mysterious divine heritage.

Heartslabyul - The Realm of Judgment and Destiny

Heartslabyul's - renamed 'Themantica' Dormitory - central conflict revolves around the battle between order and chaos, justice and mercy, hard work and inherited power. The dorm will undergo a transformation as its members grow to understand that their godly traits do not define them, but how they choose to wield those traits in a world on the brink of power usurpation is what truly matters. Yuu becomes the catalyst for reform, teaching them that while their divine parentage shapes them, their choices define who they will become.

Riddle Rosehearts – Child of Themis (Goddess of Justice)

Reasoning: Riddle Rosehearts is deeply connected to Themis, the titaness of divine order, justice, and law. Themis is the embodiment of fairness and law, often depicted with scales, which resonates with Riddle’s strict adherence to rules and his sense of justice, though Riddle also learns that true fairness isn’t always found in rigid systems.

Connection: Themis represents the legalistic and moral code that Riddle so rigidly follows, making her a perfect fit for him. Or rather, a perfect fit for his mother. His buried personal feelings about his role as a demigod are another story.

Conflict: Riddle Rosehearts' devotion to order, justice, and the enforcement of rules mirrors the divine influence of Themis. As the dorm leader, Riddle’s strict enforcement of rules represents his own attempt to uphold the ideal of justice in a chaotic world. However, the prophecy that ties Yuu to the fate of the gods will challenge Riddle’s worldview. As the gods’ powers begin to weaken, Riddle will confront the truth that blind obedience to law can lead to harm, and that compassion and flexibility must sometimes replace absolute fairness.

Tension with Yuu: At first, Riddle views Yuu as a disruptive force to the carefully ordered environment of Heartslabyul. Yuu, being unaware of their own divine parentage, challenges Riddle’s rigidity with their natural tendency to understand situations in shades of gray. Yuu's tendency to question authority and find balance between rules and fairness will force Riddle to confront the flaws in his belief system.

Resolution: Through their relationship, Riddle learns that true justice comes not from strict adherence to law, but from considering the greater good and acting with compassion. Yuu helps him realize that mercy is as important as law.

Trey Clover – Eldest Son of Demeter (Goddess of the Harvest)

Reasoning: Trey Clover, the thoughtful, responsible, and nurturing member of Heartslabyul, fits well with Demeter, the goddess of agriculture, harvest, and the home. Trey is dependable, grounded, and often takes on the caretaker role within his dorm. Much like Demeter’s nurturing presence, Trey ensures others’ needs are met and provides stability. He also has a calm demeanor that makes him approachable and supportive—qualities that resonate with Demeter’s ability to protect and nurture those under her care.

Connection: Both Trey and Demeter represent stability, nurturing, and responsibility, offering support to those around them.

Conflict: Trey Clover embodies the nurturing and stabilizing influence of Demeter, the goddess of the harvest and the home. Trey is the responsible caretaker of the dorm, often stepping into the role of peacemaker and advisor. However, the divine chaos wrought by the prophecy forces him to question how much he can protect others from the encroaching disaster. Demeter’s loss of influence over the harvest in the world will affect Trey’s ability to care for others, and he may feel powerless to prevent the unraveling of the world around him.

Tension with Yuu: Trey is highly protective of Yuu, as they are a triggering force that may push Riddle over the teetering edge, but struggles with a deep sense of helplessness. Yuu is an uninvolved party to the gods’ warfare, and Trey’s connection to Demeter places them in a Persephone-esque position. Yuu’s inevitable involvement in the prophecy raises the question of whether even his powers to nurture can stop what’s coming. Yuu becomes a mirror for Trey to understand that change is inevitable, and that sometimes, allowing things to grow in a different form is necessary for survival.

Resolution: Trey will come to accept that nurturing isn’t always about protecting people from harm, but rather about guiding them through transitions and supporting them as they face their own challenges. Yuu's growth into their role will help Trey understand that not all things are meant to stay the same forever.

Cater Diamond – Son of Eros (God of Love)

Reasoning: Cater Diamond is a fun-loving, social, and self-aware character with a deep connection to social media and capturing the moment. His energetic, attention-grabbing personality aligns well with Eros, the god of love and desire, who often brings people together in unexpected ways. Eros also represents a playful, seductive force, much like Cater’s ability to charm and captivate those around him, while his social media savvy connects to Eros' symbolic role in the pursuit of connection and attraction.

Connection: The playful, charismatic, and communicative nature of both Cater and Eros makes them a fitting pair.

Conflict: Cater Diamond’s connection to Eros, the god of love and desire, makes him a natural at influencing relationships and connecting people. His charming, flirtatious demeanor is a reflection of Eros’ ability to manipulate and inspire love in others. However, the prophecy forces Cater to confront the darker side of love—the obsessive, destructive, and manipulative nature that Eros’ power can also wield. As the gods’ power wanes, Cater begins to question whether his relationships with others are genuine, or if they’re merely the result of his ability to manipulate emotions.

Tension with Yuu: At first, Cater views Yuu as a puzzle to solve, someone who doesn’t seem easily swayed by charm or emotional manipulation. Yuu’s sincerity and ability to build genuine relationships challenge Cater to rethink his approach to love. As the prophecy nears its fulfillment, Yuu will show Cater that love can’t be controlled—it must be earned, nurtured, and given freely.

Resolution: Cater learns to let go of his need for attention and approval, realizing that true love is built on honesty, trust, and vulnerability, not manipulation. Yuu’s example shows him the power of real connection.

Ace Trappola – Son of Hermes (God of Trickery, Travel, and Communication)

Reasoning: Hermes, the god of trickery, travel, and communication, is known for his mischievous and playful personality. Ace, with his witty, rebellious nature and tendency to bend the rules, fits perfectly with Hermes' persona. Ace’s love for teasing others, his knack for getting out of tricky situations, and his ability to charm those around him makes him a natural fit for the god who’s always up to something playful and clever. His impulsive behavior also echoes Hermes’ swift, often unpredictable actions.

Connection: Ace’s wit, humor, and trickster nature align closely with the god of mischief and communication, Hermes.

Conflict: Ace Trappola is the embodiment of Hermes, the god of trickery, communication, and mischief. Ace’s constant need for attention, his love of pranks, and his manipulative nature align with Hermes’ playful and unpredictable qualities. However, as the gods lose their influence over the mortal world, Ace becomes aware that his tricks and quick wit may not be enough to navigate the complexities of the prophecy and the divine conflict. He must confront his own immaturity and selfishness, realizing that his usual tricks can’t solve the problems at hand.

Tension with Yuu: Ace sees Yuu as a challenge—someone who isn’t easily fooled or controlled. Yuu's ability to act with intention and thoughtfulness challenges Ace's impulsive nature. Yuu’s steadiness and willingness to make the hard decisions will force Ace to realize that his cleverness doesn’t always get him what he wants. He must learn that sometimes, real communication is about honesty, not manipulation.

Resolution: Ace will eventually come to appreciate the value of genuine connection and purposeful action. Yuu will help him see that trickery can’t always be the solution—it’s the truth and action that hold power.

Deuce Spade – Youngest Son of Hephaestus (God of Craftsmanship and Fire)

Reasoning: Hephaestus, the god of craftsmanship, fire, and hard work, is known for his dedication and loyalty. Deuce Spade shares many of these traits with his strong sense of duty, determination, and earnestness. Deuce is not a naturally gifted student, but through effort and perseverance, he works hard to overcome his challenges. Much like Hephaestus, who labored tirelessly to create his masterpieces, Deuce is a character defined by his commitment to improvement and his willingness to push through struggles.

Connection: The hardworking, earnest, and somewhat awkward nature of Deuce mirrors Hephaestus' perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.

Conflict: Deuce Spade is a reflection of Hephaestus, the god of craftsmanship, fire, and hard work. Deuce is driven by an earnest desire to prove himself through his effort and dedication. He is a diligent student who values hard work over innate talent. However, the prophecy forces Deuce to question his own worth. The struggle for divine recognition, along with the looming sense that all their hard work might be in vain, challenges Deuce to confront his belief in the value of toil. Can hard work truly protect the world from the prophecy’s wrath, or will they need something more than mere craftsmanship?

Tension with Yuu: Deuce’s strong work ethic and determination to be the best often put him in direct opposition to Yuu, who may not have the same motivations or views on hard work. He sees them as a possible connection to better understand human-kind and learn socially acceptable mannerisms. Yet their nonchalant outlook on the school’s way of teaching demigods has him question the ‘right path’ – which Deuce finally thought he found.  Yuu might remind him that effort alone is not always enough to overcome challenges—sometimes, one must rely on intuition, teamwork, or emotional resilience to succeed.

Resolution: Deuce learns that true strength doesn’t just come from hard work, but from the ability to adapt, trust others, and remain flexible. Yuu teaches him that it’s okay to rely on others and embrace different strategies to solve problems. That there is a balance between good and bad – perfection and rebellion.

[the-cosmic-cauldron]

🐣Freestyle Astrology Observations 🐣

Aries Sun’s will always want to be perceived as unique and different.

Taurus Sun’s can be cheap and meticulous with money.

Gemini Sun’s can become very dogmatic about religion if they believe in it.

Cancer Sun’s can be either serial daters, always in a relationship or just the opposite and never date or in a relationship.

Leo Sun’s can act like they are loners

Virgo Sun’s can be very into new age spirituality, tarot, numerology, astrology.

Libra Sun’s can either be very picky with who they date or date whoever gives them attention.

Scorpio Sun’s can give people chance after chance. It’s as if when they say they’re done it isn’t true.

Sagittarius Sun’s can be so pessimistic when life isn’t in their favor. They can be chronic complainers.

Capricorn Sun’s can be very mean. I mean they can say nasty things without even seeing the impact of their words. But they also seem to always have some struggle in life ( medical issues, drug addicts, losing a parent, going bankrupt or losing a lot of money, traumatic childhood).

Aquarius Sun’s can either come across as dry and boring or unique and exciting.

Pisces Sun’s are the sign I feel that people can often mistaken for another sign.

Aries Rising’s can attract a lot of negative attention or unwanted criticism.

Taurus Risings can be perceived as having money even when they don’t.

Gemini Risings can be recognized by their voice

Cancer Rising may go through a lot of changes in their life, moving around, different partners, different workplace.

Leo Risings may feel like people are always looking at them or they can just feel very exposed

Virgo Risings can over analyze their own thoughts or constantly be in their head about everything they do.

Libra Rising can either be focused on making themselves look so good ( physically) or making their life look so good ( career, house, car, relationship, family).

Scorpio Risings can experiment with their sexuality a lot in this lifetime or find that the end of their relationships drastically change the trajectory of their lives.

Sagittarius Risings can become guru’s, sages, spiritual leaders, or life coaches.

Capricorn Risings can often be the person in the family who breaks generational curses or steps up to make sure the family succeeds or takes care of family.

Aquarius Risings can be the ones to change their family tree, do something different, no children, more children than others in the family, different race children. They are the odd child or person in their family.

Pisces Risings can be seen as innocent or misjudged incorrectly, may project an image that isn’t true or may see other people this way.

Aries Moon’s may struggle to grasp how they truly feel and they can also feel their emotions make them volatile.

Taurus Moon’s can be fake deep.

Gemini Moon’s can do best at expressing their feelings through poetry, story telling, blogging, writing in a diary or journal or texting friends.

Cancer Moon’s can be subject to change how they feel about anything or anyone all of the time. Also extremely absorbent of others emotions.

Leo Moon’s can find it hard to hide how they truly feel.

Virgo Moon’s can find themselves interested in people and things that they are emotionally attached to.

Libra Moon’s can become shopaholics and find it hard to put in hard work.

Scorpio Moon’s deal with intense and extreme emotions and often no one knows how much they’re struggling.

Sagittarius Moon’s may have a lot of friends because they boost people’s self-esteem and motivate others.

Capricorn Moon’s can come across as somber and need to feel needed.

Aquarius Moon’s can have moments where their emotions become chaotic and uncontrollable. Sudden outbursts, rage, panic attacks, anxiety, meltdowns, hyperventilating.

Pisces Moon’s can feel easily disturbed and need healthy environments to thrive or they become delusional and negative.

Personal Observations

• Leo women can have other women jealous of them and it’s usually either because of the attention they get or some physical feature they have.

• Pisces can be extremely influenced by their siblings or close relatives. Say they have a cousin or older brother that is a certain way, they end up following in their footsteps.

• Capricorn women can dish it, but can’t take it.

• Leo men easily become “ lover boys”.

• Leo men can also lie straight to you in your face and not even blink an eye.

• Sagittarius women relationships never last. They always fall hard even if they play hard to get but they just don’t last.

• Scorpio men have this deep desire to gain power through money. They are the kind of people willing to do what it takes to ensure they’re successful.

• Libra women can have a lot of friends that they dislike are or jealous of.

• Also, I find that Libra’s usually end up being LGBTQIA+.

• Cancer men love when a woman chases after them or does the initiating.

• Cancer men also can be users especially when they aren’t over their ex.

• I find that Scorpio men’s persistence at times is a detriment in dating. For their goals, it can help them get to where they want to be, but with love it can make them frustrated and end up going for the person they didn’t have to chase after.

• I find that Gemini men often date out of curiosity. They don’t have to particularly be into you; but if you intrigue them in anyway they will play around with the idea of “dating” you.

• Scorpio women can be a “ girls girl” the most when they’re single. When they’re in a relationship they can be a “ pick- me”.

• I feel like Virgo men are either dysfunctional, chaotic, and mean or orderly, goal-oriented and kind.

• Aries men are looking for their soulmate, woman of their dreams, their other half. When they meet a woman they feel that way towards they can become delusional.

• Aries men also love people they can mentally connect with. They can be so talkative with the right people and dead quiet with people they don’t fuck with.

• Pisces men are so good at making you fall in love with them. It’s like they have the cheat code. Which is why I think they are hated so much because they end up breaking hearts.

• Leo women always seem to have a type. They’re also low key delusional.

• Capricorn men love women, but they always end up in drama dealing with women.

• I feel like Sagittarius women have a lot of pride

• Cancer women can become so engrossed in a man. It’s not even delusional because they know it’s not healthy, but they always choose partners that they have to struggle with.

[solxamber]

Hi! I had some questions about your guideverse AU after reading one of your fics. I’ll admit most of it is just because I’m unfamiliar with the concept of a “guideverse” AU.

How does the guiding work? How do the bonds actually work? The idea of being able to force one ruined any understanding I could piece together. One of your fics mentioned the reader being a battle-type esper, so there must be something like support-type espers too? How is that classification determined? I assume it has to do with the type of powers manifested. Also, I noticed there’s a pattern of calling espers dramatic. Is this just a plot thing, or do the powers make them more emotionally unstable?

Sorry for the wall of questions.

omg guideverse questions yippee (don't be sorry i get really excited when i see questions about guideverse!!!)

these are not answers for every guideverse, this is just how things work in mine specifically!

How does guiding work?

When a Guide touches an Esper—always skin-to-skin—it acts as a conduit that opens a psychic link. This link allows the Guide to "hear" or "feel" the Esper’s emotional and neural frequencies.

Once contact is made, the Guide consciously pushes their own stable frequency toward the Esper’s. Think of it like tuning two instruments to the same pitch.

How do these bonds work?

So there are 2 types of bonds: Temporary and Permanent. They're both used for making the guiding process more efficient.

Temporary Bonds:

A temporary bond is a flexible, short-term connection between a Guide and an Esper. Its usually initiated when there's a large rank difference between Esper and Guide to make sure that the Esper can feel the exertion and stop when the Guide is getting dangerously drained.

Permanent Bond:

A permanent bond is a rare, lifelong psychic connection formed when a Guide and an Esper resonate at a near-perfect frequency and both willingly consent to solidify the link. The guiding is more efficient when the pair is permanently bonded.

Consequences of a permanent bond:

For the Guide:

They become unable to guide anyone else.

For the Esper:

They can no longer be effectively guided by anyone else.

Others may try, but the effects will be weakened, often feeling hollow or even physically uncomfortable.

Forced Bonding?

A forced bond occurs when an Esper deliberately overwhelms or hijacks a Guide's resonance without consent, attempting to lock a bond against the Guide’s will.

These are extremely rare and universally condemned—both ethically and legally.

Consequences:

For the Guide:

Suffers psychic trauma—the equivalent of being set on fire from the inside.

Experiences a sharp, often permanent loss in guiding efficiency.

For the Esper:

The bond does not become permanent, no matter how hard they push. It eventually collapses under its own instability.

Most Espers who attempt this do so out of desperation, not malice—but it’s still treated as a serious offense.

Types of Espers?

There are Battle Types and Support Types. They're classified according to the abilities that they get.

Battle Type Espers:

Primary Role:

Offense, combat engagement, and direct suppression of Gate-born entities.

Abilities:

High-output, volatile, or destructive in nature.

Manifest as elemental control, psychic force projection, weaponization of thought, or raw energy manipulation.

Prone to power surges and emotional bleed-through during high-stress combat, making them heavily reliant on stable guiding.

Support Type Espers: (Very rare)

Primary Role:

Defense, utility, stabilization, and team augmentation.

Abilities:

Subtle but essential—often involve shielding, spatial control, time perception slowing, healing, detection.

Designed to regulate or manipulate the Gate environment itself, rather than destroy what's inside it.

Still emotionally reactive, but generally more stable than Battle-types.

Are espers dramatic or is it a side effect?

Almost all Espers are emotionally unstable.

Emotional instability isn’t a flaw in Espers—it’s practically a feature of the job. The very nature of being an Esper means existing with your psyche wide open, constantly flooded with noise, power, and pressure. Even the strongest ones—the SSS-Ranks who clear Gates single-handedly—aren’t immune. In fact, the more powerful an Esper is, the louder the chaos gets.

1. Noise

This “psychic noise” never really turns off. Sleep doesn’t mute it. Solitude just sharpens it.

Guides help quiet it, but outside of those sessions? It’s like trying to meditate during a rock concert.

2. Guilt

Espers are the first into Gates and the last out.

They’re trained to fight, save, contain—and failures stick. Hard.

Many Espers carry survivor’s guilt or a martyr complex. They can’t save everyone, and that gnaws at them.

Hope this cleared up some things!!

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Christopher Mathias at HuffPost:

A coalition of 185 social justice and religious groups published an open letter Monday expressing support for the campus protest encampments sweeping the country in opposition to Israel’s siege of Gaza, and calling on university administrators to end the brutal crackdowns of the student-led demonstrations. “We commend the students who are exercising their right to protest peacefully despite an overwhelming atmosphere of pressure, intimidation and retaliation, to raise awareness about Israel’s assault on Gaza — with U.S. weapons and funding,” the letter states. “These students have come forth with clear demands that their universities divest from corporations profiting from Israeli occupation, and demanding safe environments for Palestinians across their campuses. ” Groups that signed the letter include Gen-Z for Change, Working Families Party, IfNotNow Movement, Young Democrats of America Black Caucus, Movement for Black Lives, Sunrise Movement, MPower Change, Jewish Voice for Peace, Palestine Legal, and the Unitarian Universalist Association.

Some 900 students have been arrested during anti-war encampments and demonstrations at American universities in the last 10 days, per a tally from Al Jazeera — a tumultuous period that mirrors volatile demonstrations against the Vietnam War in 1968, when police arrested at least 700 students. The open letter Monday represents one of the largest shows of support among progressive groups for the burgeoning student protests, and makes clear the divide between establishment Democratic figures and social justice groups when it comes to U.S. support for Israel. President Joe Biden has refused so far to condition the sale of weapons to Israel. “Our communities have been horrified to see the militarized and violent response to students protesting an ongoing genocide funded and supported by our government, and our coalition of organizations join millions of our members across the country in standing in solidarity with the students’ efforts in support of the people of Gaza,” Yasmine Taeb, one of the main organizers of the letter, told HuffPost. Taeb is a human rights lawyer and political director at MPower Change, a Muslim social justice group.

“Instead of attacking young people mobilizing for Palestinian human rights, President Biden needs to listen to the majority of Americans who have been calling on him to stop funding and supporting the atrocities committed against the people of Gaza,” Taeb said.

[...] Israel has killed over 33,000 Palestinians since Oct. 7, when the Gaza-based militant group Hamas launched an attack in which nearly 1,200 Israelis were killed. In January, the International Court of Justice ruled that Israel’s siege of Gaza — which has displaced 85% of the population and put the occupied territory on the cusp of famine — left Palestinians at risk of experiencing a genocide. Last week, health officials in Gaza said medics had discovered mass graves at hospitals raided by Israeli troops. “We join [the students] in calling for an immediate and lasting ceasefire and an end to the U.S. government’s and institutions’ role in the ongoing genocide of Palestinians in Gaza,” Monday’s letter states. “As we stand in solidarity with the students protesting in encampments across the country, we reaffirm our commitment to amplifying their voices, condemn the university administration officials’ violent response to their activism, and demand that universities remove the presence of police and other militarized forces from their campuses,” it continues.

[...] Meanwhile, Republican Party officials and right-wing media figures have accused the demonstrations of antisemitism, falsely equating criticism of Israel with bigotry towards Jews. Although there have been scattered reports of actual antisemitic incidents at or near the encampments, many were not perpetrated by students but by interlopers. Many of the student protesters across the country are Jewish. Far-right agitators, including Christian nationalist activists, have also targeted the encampments, with MAGA pastor Sean Feucht leading hundreds of Christian and Jewish Zionists on a march around the Columbia campus on Thursday. The rally ended with pro-Israel demonstrators yelling through the gate at pro-Palestinian Columbia students. “Go back to Gaza!” they screamed.

More than 185 groups, including IfNotNow, Jewish Voice For Peace, MPower Change, and Working Families Party, signed a letter in support of the campus protests against Israel Apartheid State's genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

[baldudiable]

common misconceptions about the signs

aries : they are selfish. uncompromising. and always angry.

i think what bothers people is that aries prioritizes themselves instead of others. it's the first sign of the zodiac, so it is associated with the self. aries indeed values itself highly. but i believe it has the potential to be as selfless and giving as libra, its counterpart. libra is all about an equal exchange, and the realization that the self and the other have to coexist. what libra is, aries seeks to understand and integrate. aries' path involves realizing that without other people on their side, they aren't really that important. once they have made this realization, they do everything in their power to fight for the people they love. but the sign knows that it should never come at the expense of their own being, who is the person they are actually gonna end up with, in the end. it's not that they are always angry, it's just that they are not afraid of expressing uncomfortable thoughts or emotions, even if that means rubbing people the wrong way.

taurus : they are greedy and lazy. they hate change.

taurus isn't necessarily greedy. taurus most of all wants to feel secure in order to savor life. it's an hedonist. it's ruled by venus after all. this sign seeks to satisfy its senses by indulging in all kinds of pleasures. for taurus, you have to possess enough ressources in order to do that without having to worry about lacking. it's a sign that is also linked to one's sense of self-worth. taurus has a high self-esteem, which is why they give themselves the things that they deem themselves worthy of. they are far from lazy, they are actually very hard-working. it's a fixed sign, which means that once they are working towards something, they don't stop until they have reached their target. it might just take them some time to actually get up and start. it's hard for them to allow change and to welcome new situations because they worry that they will lose the security they have fought so badly to get.

gemini : they are two-faced, detached and volatile.

geminis aren't two-faced, they just have what we call a multifaceted personality. they also have a high capacity to change and evolve. it's a mutable sign, which means that gemini's ego is malleable and influenced by its environment. it is is very adaptable. geminis use their perceptiveness to know which role to play according to the person in front of them or the environment that they're in. they absorb information and traits they have observed and and use them when they come in handy. that doesn't mean that they are two-faced. that means they are creative and intelligent. they are not cold, they take decisions listening to their logic instead of their emotions. they aren't volatile, the person that that they were when you met them simply isn't the person that they are today.

cancer : they are weak and manipulative.

cancers are sensitive, that is true. but i think the reason people see them as too sensitive is because they are open about it. since cancer is ruled by the moon — which literally represents our emotions — its emotions are stronger and sometimes overpower it; it is therefore less likely to repress its emotions than other people. society encourages us to show no emotion because we might be taken advantage of. but to cancers, this sensitivity is a richness and they intend to express it. the reason they are said to be manipulative is because they can sometimes ignore people's emotions as they are so blinded by their own. as a water sign, cancers' emotions were probably ignored in the past. most of the time, they don't have the necessary tools to express themselves without being dismissing other people's feelings and hurting them in the process. they are not weak. they have, like everyone, needs that have to be met to be happy. the only difference is that they are not willing to accept less than they deserve.

leo : they are narcissistic. that they enjoy causing drama.

it wouldn't be fair to say that leos aren't a bit self-centered. they are. but they are ruled by the sun after all. like the sun, they think that the universe revolves around them. which is true to a certain extent, don't you think? everyone is a little bit self-centered, but not everyone owns it. leos do though. they know that we only get one chance at this thing called life, and they plan to celebrate themselves in this life that they were graciously given. this sign is far from being selfish, it might actually be the most generous sign there is. like the sun, leo wants to share the joy, light and richness that it possesses. i understand the dramatic stereotype though. leo is always involved in some kind of drama. this sign is very proud. it demands respect, and when it feels disrespected, it immediately gets into fight-mode. the fire element makes them very intense. their reactions are big and explosive. sometimes, leo complicates situations because the way it feels about them is just so strong. for that reason the wildfire spreads, and with it, its consequences.

virgo : they are eternally unsatisfied. they are too rational.

satisfying a virgo is difficult, i'll give you that. but the standards they set for others are as high as the standards they set for themselves. virgos see everything; the good and the bad. they might be demanding, but they are also able to be appreciative and give credit where it is due. the thing that isn't often said about them is that they are very idealistic. opposite to pisces, this sign strives for perfection. it wants to create heaven on earth. virgos always see how things can be improved and therefore give themselves and others the means necessary to realize their vision. virgos pretend to be rational but they are in fact quite sensitive and spiritual. the only reason they are pretending to be unfeeling is because people depend on them to be strong and to find solutions to their problems. virgos actually brood other past mistakes very often. but they will never admit it, as they hate talking about their feelings and attracting unnecessary attention to themselves. they are not boring, they just have their priorities straight. we should follow their example.

libra : they are superficial. fake. they are only interested in their image.

i think the reason libra is said to be superficial is due to its desire to embellish reality. you have to remember that it is ruled by venus, the goddess of love and beauty. libra wants to refine the elements that constitute reality, even if that means ignoring the depths which aren't always agreeable to look at. it can be hard to get beneath the surface with them because the air element makes them uncomfortable with heavy subjects. but there is nothing wrong with wanting to focus on the bright side of life. their idealism can become a problem when things in their life need to be improved and they choose to ignore them. libras are probably considered fake because they are kind to the people they encounter. i think now more than ever, people are suspicious of others' intentions. libra's generosity around their energy or ressources makes people wonder whether it's actually genuine or if there is an hidden agenda behind it. if libra is so focused on its image, it's because it has a high self-esteem and wants to elevate itself. what is not often said about this sign is that it is very ambitious. it's cardinal, so it wants to reach the top. but only because it wants to indulge in the luxuries that life has to offer with the people that matter to them.

scorpio : they are power hungry. they are mean or aloof.

scorpios aren't necessarily power hungry. most of the time, they don't even want to be in positions of power. they just possess the qualities necessary in order lead. so we make them leaders, and they accept this role. it's a fixed sign, a modality that comes with a laser-like focus and an ability to take control of situations without losing one's cool. scorpios can complete difficult tasks perfectly by removing all distractions. when they are in positions of power, they do everything they can to keep it because power comes with its advantages. they become mean and domineering when they feel that their position is threatened, but it's just a role that they play. they aren't really bad, they are just pretending to be. like taurus, its equal, scorpio is afraid of losing their security. it's also scared of losing control. scorpios usually had no self-agency growing up and major decisions were taken for them instead of with them. now they feel like they have be in control of people and situations in order to prevent harm. they are naturally suspicious of others and keep them at arms' length. the people who manage to see beyond their facade and love them anyway end up becoming their allies. once that is done, they become the most loving & generous people you'll ever meet.

sagittarius : they are unserious and impractical. they cannot commit.

sagittarius likes to have fun. but that doesn't mean that it cannot work hard. jupiter, the biggest planet in the solar system — rules this sign. like the planet, sagittarius wants to grow continually. you cannot put this sign inside a box. and the reason for that is because being in a box prevents their destined expansion. you will always find this sign travelling, going out and learning new things because it has a need to be stimulated and challenged. it is said to be impractical because it's extending its energy to so many places. but from what i've seen, sagittariuses are more than able to be successful both at work and in the private sphere. it's a mutable sign, which means that it's able to juggle many things at once. they are are not scared of commitment, they just don't want to be in a dynamic that doesn't allow them to be free to wander, and that doesn't encourage them to enlarge their minds and spirits.

capricorn : they are materialistic. they are workaholics. or boring.

capricorns like money, that is true. but who doesn't? with the earth element that rules it, it mostly wants money for the feeling of stability and peace it provides. capricorn is a realist. it knows that the quickest and easiest way to make money is to get up and work. but money isn't the most important thing to a capricorn. what matters most for it them family. they exist on the same polarity as cancer, remember? the reason capricorns spend so much time outside tiring themselves out is because they want to bring something tangible and durable home. which can be paradoxical, as they end up losing the precious time they could spend on their loved ones on their work instead. but to a capricorn, using oneself is a way to show love. if people call them boring it's because capricorns choose to use the rest of their time to rest and to be with their people. like scorpios, they are suspicious of strangers. they know that once they love someone, they don't hold back. for saturn, the celestial body that rules the sign, time is of utmost importance; capricorn doesn't intend to waste it on ephemeral people.

aquarius : they are detached. they are commitment-phobes.

aquarius isn't void of emotions. it is after all, human. like everyone, they do feel. aquarius just chooses to give more importance to its mind rather than its heart when it comes to making decisions. it's an air sign that is associated with groups or with humanity at large. aquariuses often fall into leadership roles because they are social creatures who know how to work with others toward a common goal. to them, leadership has to be objective and unbiased, and it has to profit every parts involved. but in the private sphere, they are far from detached. this sign belongs to the fixed modality, which makes them very loyal and loving. besides, the sun, which is all about one's sense of self, is in detriment in aquarius. their ego is weaker than in other signs and that they are bound to make room for strong attachments in their lives. like any fixed sign, they are difficult to approach because they take relationships very seriously. but once you get past their defenses — and if they deem you worthy of it — you earn their love forever.

pisces : they are unreliable. passive. they lack ambition.

pisces are far from unreliable. they are actually some of the most selfless and helpful person there are. they were actually brought up to make themselves useful to others. people always ask them for things, and pisces usually gladly accepts. unless of course they are dealing with problems of their own, or because they are simply too tired to give any more of their energy. they are called selfish from the moment they say no because people have started taking their help for granted. pisces aren't passive or unambitious, but they do lack trust and confidence in their abilities. it's the sign that rules dreams, and theirs are big. they have many talents because they spend their lifetime trying out different practices which allow them to express their complicated emotions. once they realize that their talents can bring them success, they become highly disciplined and determined. nothing can stop a pisces that understands that their gifts can serve both themselves and others.

[velvetvisionsaurora]

Synopsis: When talented producer Y/n (known professionally as the mysterious "Celeste") accepts a position at JYP Entertainment to help Stray Kids with their comeback, she expects to focus solely on creating music. What she doesn't expect is the immediate connection she feels with Han Jisung—the group's quick-witted, sensitive rapper and producer who's been following her career from afar.

Pairing: Han Jisung x Reader

Warnings: Angst, Smut, Heartbreak

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Masterlist Ko-fi☕️ <- Want to buy me a coffee?

Chapter 16: Breaking Point

Three days after your date with Jiwoo, the tension in the studio had become almost unbearable. Your initial resolve to maintain professional composure was crumbling under the weight of constant proximity to Han, whose own behavior had shifted in ways you couldn't quite interpret. Where before he had been carefully neutral, now he seemed to alternate between avoiding eye contact entirely and watching you with an intensity that made your skin prickle with awareness.

The date with Jiwoo—which you hadn't repeated despite his polite follow-up message—had somehow changed the dynamic, though you couldn't understand why. If Han truly believed his feelings for you had been circumstantial, why would your dinner with someone else affect him at all?

Yet something had shifted, creating a volatile undercurrent that threatened the professional environment you'd both worked so hard to maintain after the breakup. Other members had begun to notice as well, exchanging concerned glances when production discussions between you and Han became clipped and tense, when creative disagreements that would have previously been resolved through collaborative compromise turned into stubborn standoffs.

Today's session had begun normally enough—reviewing the final mix of the title track, making minor adjustments to levels and effects. But tension had been building incrementally, each small interaction between you and Han carrying the weight of unspoken words and suppressed emotions.

"The vocal reverb on the bridge needs reduction," you noted, making an adjustment to the mix without waiting for agreement. "It's muddying the instrumental texture."

Han frowned, reaching to revert your change. "The reverb provides depth. Without it, the transition feels two-dimensional."

"The depth should come from the arrangement, not artificial effects," you countered, your tone more brusque than usual. "The composition is strong enough to stand without excessive processing."

Chan glanced between you, clearly sensing the growing tension. "Maybe we could try a compromise? Reduce the reverb slightly but maintain some of that atmospheric quality?"

"The current level is already a compromise," Han insisted, an edge entering his voice that would have been unthinkable in your earlier collaborations. "Further reduction undermines the emotional impact of the section."

"That's your subjective interpretation," you responded, professional patience wearing dangerously thin. "Objectively, the mix is cleaner and more effective with reduced reverb."

"Music isn't objective," Han shot back, frustration evident in his posture. "It's emotional expression, not mathematical calculation."

"And professional production is about balancing expression with technical quality," you countered, the argument moving beyond the specific issue into broader philosophical territory. "Sometimes that means making choices that serve the overall composition rather than individual preferences."

Changbin exchanged a concerned look with Chan, both clearly uncomfortable with the escalating tension. "Maybe we should take a break," he suggested cautiously. "Get some fresh perspective."

"The perspective is clear," Han stated firmly, his gaze challenging as it met yours across the console. "The reverb stays as is."

Something in his tone—the flat finality, the dismissal of your professional judgment—broke through your carefully maintained composure. "You don't get to make unilateral decisions about this mix," you said, your voice dangerously quiet. "That's not how collaboration works."

"Isn't it?" Han replied, something bitter entering his expression. "I thought making decisions for other people was standard practice around here."

The comment landed like a slap, its meaning clear only to you—a reference to his decision to end your relationship without discussion, to declare his feelings insufficient without giving you a voice in the matter. The sudden intrusion of personal history into professional disagreement crossed a line that had been carefully maintained for weeks.

"That's completely inappropriate," you said, standing abruptly from your station. "And entirely irrelevant to this discussion."

"Is it?" Han challenged, rising as well, the professional pretense crumbling further with each exchange. "Or is it the root of the whole problem?"

Chan stepped forward, alarm evident in his expression. "Okay, let's definitely take that break now. Fifteen minutes, everyone cool down, then we'll revisit this with clear heads."

But the breaking point had been reached, weeks of suppressed hurt and confusion finally boiling over into words that couldn't be taken back.

"You don't get to act like the injured party here," you said, gathering your belongings with trembling hands. "You made your feelings—or lack thereof—perfectly clear. You don't then get to have opinions about how I process that or who I spend time with."

Han's expression flickered with something like pain before hardening again. "I never claimed to have opinions about that. Your personal life is your business."

"Then why the sudden hostility since the date?" you demanded, abandoning professional reservation entirely. "If you truly meant what you said about your feelings not being deep enough, why does it matter to you what I do outside this studio?"

The question hung in the air between you, loaded with implications neither of you were prepared to address directly. Chan and Changbin remained frozen in place, clearly uncertain whether intervention would improve the situation or escalate it further.

"It doesn't matter to me," Han insisted, though his tense posture and averted gaze suggested otherwise. "I'm focused on the music, which is why I'm advocating for the production choices that best serve the composition."

"Right," you replied, disbelief evident in your tone. "This is exclusively about reverb levels, not about you attempting to assert control in one area since you've lost it in another."

The psychological assessment was cutting in its accuracy, causing Han to flinch visibly before his expression hardened into something distant and cold. "Believe whatever you want. I'm trying to create the best possible album, which is what we're all here for, supposedly."

"Yes, it is," you agreed, a sudden clarity washing over you as the full weight of the situation settled in your chest. "And I'm beginning to think my physical presence here is becoming detrimental to that goal."

Chan stepped forward, concern deepening in his expression. "Y/n, that's not—"

"It's true," you interrupted quietly. "The current dynamic isn't sustainable or productive. We need to find a different approach."

Without further elaboration, you turned and left the studio, ignoring Chan's call of your name as the door closed behind you. The walk to your dorm passed in a blur of hurt and clarity, each step cementing the decision that had been forming in your mind since the argument began.

Inside your dorm, you moved directly to your laptop, opening your email with shaking hands but absolute certainty about what needed to be done. The message you composed was professional and straightforward, addressed to JYP's production director with copies to your management team in LA:

Subject: Request for Remote Completion of Contract

Dear Director Park,

I am writing to formally request modification of my remaining contract obligations with JYP Entertainment. After careful consideration, I believe the project would be best served by my completing the remaining production work remotely from Los Angeles rather than continuing in Seoul.

The album is now in final mixing stages, with all major production elements established and approved in yesterday's executive review. The remaining work—final mixing adjustments, mastering supervision, and production notes—can be effectively accomplished through digital collaboration, as is standard practice in many international productions.

My team in LA has confirmed the availability of appropriate studio facilities to ensure seamless continuation of the project, and I am prepared to maintain the established timeline for completion.

I believe this arrangement will provide the most efficient path to completing the album at the quality level JYP expects and deserves. I remain fully committed to delivering an exceptional product and am available for immediate discussion of logistical details.

Thank you for your consideration of this request.

Sincerely, Celeste. Executive Producer

You read through the message twice, verifying that the tone remained entirely professional with no hint of the personal complications driving your decision. Satisfied that it represented a reasonable business request rather than an emotional reaction, you clicked send before you could reconsider.

The solution wasn't perfect—remote collaboration would present its own challenges—but it would provide the distance needed to complete the project without the daily emotional strain that had become increasingly unbearable. Seven weeks of careful professional distance had proven unsustainable; perhaps physical separation would allow both you and Han to refocus on the work rather than the complicated feelings neither of you seemed able to fully suppress.

As the email departed into digital space, a profound exhaustion settled over you, the adrenaline of confrontation giving way to a bone-deep weariness. You'd come to Seoul for a professional opportunity, a chance to expand your production repertoire and work with talented artists in a different cultural context. Somehow, that straightforward assignment had evolved into the most emotionally complicated experience of your career.

The worst part was how much you'd come to care—not just about Han, though that remained a raw wound, but about all of them. Felix with his sunshine warmth and perceptive friendship. I.N. with his endearing combination of youthful enthusiasm and surprising maturity. Hyunjin with his dramatic flair hiding genuine depth. Chan's steady leadership, Changbin's quiet insight, Lee Know's observant calm, Seungmin's thoughtful intelligence.

They had become more than colleagues, more than the subjects of a temporary assignment. They had become something like family, a realization that made your decision to leave prematurely all the more painful. But continuing in the current environment would only damage both the project and the relationships you'd developed.

Sometimes the kindest choice was also the most difficult. Distance, in this case, might be the greatest gift you could offer—to the album, to the group, to Han, and to yourself.

Your phone chimed with a message from Felix: "You okay? Chan told me you left suddenly after an argument."

The concern was touching but also a reminder of how intertwined your personal and professional lives had become here—precisely the complication that had led to the current situation.

"I'm fine," you replied, the standard response when one is anything but. "Just needed space to think."

The truth would come soon enough, once your request was processed and approved. For now, you needed time to begin the mental and emotional preparation for departure, for returning to LA weeks earlier than planned, for saying goodbye to people who had come to mean far more than you'd ever anticipated.

Seven weeks suddenly reduced to days, perhaps even hours, depending on how quickly management processed your request. Time that would now be measured in goodbyes rather than ongoing collaboration, in packing rather than production, in ending rather than creating.

It wasn't what you'd wanted or expected when you'd accepted this assignment. But sometimes the only way forward was to step away, however painful the separation might be.

---

The atmosphere in the studio remained tense in your absence, Han's expression closed and defensive as Chan and Changbin exchanged concerned glances, uncertain how to proceed after the unprecedented confrontation.

"Maybe I should go check on her," Chan suggested finally, breaking the heavy silence that had fallen after your departure.

"Give her space," Han countered, turning back to the console with forced focus. "We can continue working on the other tracks while she processes."

Changbin's expression reflected clear disapproval, though he directed his comment to Chan rather than Han. "Should we reschedule today's session? The energy isn't exactly conducive to creative work right now."

Before Chan could respond, the studio door opened to reveal Manager Kim, his expression uncharacteristically grave as he surveyed the room, noting your absence with a slight frown.

"Chan," he said, gesturing toward the hallway. "A word, please."

Han watched with growing unease as Chan followed the manager outside, the door closing behind them with a soft but somehow ominous click. Something about Manager Kim's expression, the unusual interruption of a production session, sent a chill of premonition through Han's system.

"What do you think that's about?" he asked Changbin, trying to keep his tone casual despite the anxiety building in his chest.

Changbin shrugged, though his expression suggested concern rather than indifference. "Probably related to what just happened here. Word travels fast in this building."

The observation only increased Han's discomfort. If Manager Kim had heard about their argument, about the personal tension that had infected the professional environment, would he make the connection to his earlier warning about inappropriate relationships? Would you face professional consequences because Han had failed to maintain the careful boundaries that were supposed to protect your career?

The minutes stretched endlessly as Han waited for Chan's return, each scenario his imagination conjured worse than the last. When the door finally reopened, Chan's expression confirmed his worst fears—something significant had happened, something that wouldn't be easily resolved.

"What is it?" Changbin asked, voicing the question Han couldn't bring himself to form.

Chan closed the door carefully before turning to face them, his expression a mixture of concern and resignation. "Y/n has requested to complete her contract remotely from LA. Effective immediately."

The news landed like a physical blow, leaving Han momentarily breathless as the implications registered. You were leaving. Not in seven weeks as scheduled, but now. Immediately. Without proper goodbyes or resolution or any of the closure he'd imagined might eventually come.

"She can't do that," he protested automatically, though he knew intellectually that you absolutely could—remote collaboration was standard in the industry, especially for international projects.

"Apparently she can," Chan replied, his tone carefully neutral though his eyes reflected concern as they assessed Han's reaction. "Management has approved the request. She'll be flying back to LA tomorrow morning."

"Tomorrow?" Changbin repeated, genuine shock evident in his voice. "That's... abrupt."

Chan nodded, moving to his workstation with a sigh. "The email chain I was just shown suggests she made a compelling case for why remote completion makes sense at this stage of production. Technically, she's right—we're in final mixing, most of the creative heavy lifting is done. But the timing..."

He let the observation hang, the implication clear to everyone in the room. The timing, immediately following a heated argument with Han that crossed professional boundaries, was no coincidence.

"This is because of what happened today," Han said quietly, the reality settling in his chest like a stone. "Because I couldn't maintain professional separation."

Neither Chan nor Changbin contradicted this assessment, their silence confirmation enough. The weight of responsibility pressed Han further into his seat—you were leaving Seoul weeks ahead of schedule, abandoning the close-knit creative environment that had produced such exceptional work, because he had failed to honor the very boundaries he'd established to protect your career.

"We need to tell the others," Chan said finally, reaching for his phone. "I'll call a meeting at the dorm in an hour. Everyone should hear this together."

Han nodded numbly, unable to formulate a response that wouldn't reveal the full extent of his guilt and regret. You were leaving because of him—because of his inability to reconcile his feelings with his actions, because of the tension his deception had created, because continuing in his presence had become unsustainable.

The protection he'd claimed to provide through ending your relationship had ultimately failed, driving you away physically as well as emotionally. The irony was bitter, the failure complete. In trying to shield you from professional damage, he had created a situation so untenable that leaving early had become your only viable option.

Seven weeks reduced to less than twenty-four hours. Whatever slim hope he might have harbored for eventual resolution, for some kind of closure or understanding before your scheduled departure, had been extinguished by his own actions. The realization was devastating in its finality, in the absolute certainty that he had lost something precious through his own misguided choices.

---

The dorm living room was unusually silent as the eight members gathered, the somber atmosphere suggesting Chan had provided some context for the emergency meeting when summoning everyone. Han sat slightly apart from the others, hyperaware of the occasional glances cast in his direction—some concerned, others accusatory, none particularly comforting.

"I've called everyone here because there's been a significant development regarding the album production," Chan began, his leader persona firmly in place despite the personal nature of the situation. "Y/n has requested and received approval to complete her contract remotely from Los Angeles. She'll be flying out tomorrow morning."

Despite the hints Chan had clearly provided beforehand, the official announcement was met with immediate reactions of shock and distress.

"Tomorrow?" Felix repeated, dismay evident in his expression. "But she wasn't supposed to leave for seven more weeks."

"What happened?" Seungmin asked, his perceptive gaze moving between Chan and Han. "This seems sudden."

Chan hesitated, clearly considering how much detail was appropriate to share. "There was a disagreement during today's session that... escalated beyond professional bounds. Y/n feels the project would be better served by her completing the work remotely."

"A disagreement," Hyunjin repeated flatly, his eyes narrowing as they fixed on Han. "Would this 'disagreement' have anything to do with certain personal complications that have been affecting the studio atmosphere for weeks?"

Han met his gaze briefly before looking away, unable to deny the accusation but unwilling to elaborate on the specific exchange that had pushed you to your breaking point.

"This is ridiculous," Felix said, frustration evident in his usually cheerful voice. "She can't just leave without proper goodbyes. Without closure. Without..." he trailed off, the unspoken 'fixing things with Han' hanging in the air.

"Apparently she can," Lee Know observed quietly. "And given the situation, it's hard to blame her for wanting distance."

The pointed comment wasn't directed explicitly at Han, but its target was unmistakable nonetheless. Han remained silent, accepting the implicit criticism as his due. This outcome was the result of his choices, his actions, his failure to navigate the complicated circumstances he'd helped create.

"So that's it?" I.N. asked, his voice small and hurt in a way that made Han's chest tighten with fresh guilt. "Noona is just... leaving? Without saying goodbye?"

The Korean term of affection—the one you'd once mentioned touched you deeply when I.N. first used it—highlighted the personal bonds that had formed beyond professional collaboration. Bonds that would now be severed prematurely, leaving no opportunity for proper farewells or closure.

"I'm sure she'll say her goodbyes," Chan assured him, though his tone lacked conviction. "She wouldn't leave without at least messaging everyone."

"A text isn't the same as a proper goodbye," Hyunjin argued, his usual dramatic flair underscored by genuine emotion. "We should at least have a dinner or something before she goes. A chance to properly thank her for everything she's done."

"I'll reach out and suggest it," Chan agreed, though his expression suggested limited hope for success. "But given the circumstances..."

His gaze flickered briefly to Han, the implication clear—your desire for separation likely extended beyond professional considerations to include distance from Han specifically, making a group gathering potentially uncomfortable or unwelcome.

"This is completely messed up," Felix stated, voice rising with uncharacteristic anger. "She belongs here, with us, finishing what we started together. The album won't be the same without her physical presence."

"The production quality won't suffer," Chan assured him, ever the professional leader. "Y/n is still fully committed to the project, just from a different location."

"It's not about the production quality," Felix countered, frustration evident in his expression. "It's about the creative energy, the collaborative spirit, the family we've become. You can't replicate that through digital communication."

The word 'family' sent another wave of guilt through Han's system. You had indeed become something like family to many of the members—Felix's best friend, I.N.'s surrogate sister, a valued confidant and creative partner to others. Those connections would now be severed prematurely because of his inability to manage the personal complications he had helped create.

"This wouldn't be happening if certain people hadn't made things unnecessarily complicated," Hyunjin observed, not bothering to disguise the accusation in his tone as he looked directly at Han. "If feelings had been communicated honestly instead of whatever game has been playing out for weeks."

"Hyunjin," Chan warned, clearly trying to prevent further escalation. "Placing blame doesn't help the situation now."

"Doesn't it?" Hyunjin challenged, rising from his seat with building emotion. "Because I think acknowledging exactly why Y/n feels she needs to flee the country might be pretty relevant to fixing the problem."

Han remained silent, accepting Hyunjin's anger as justified given his limited understanding of the situation. Without knowing about Manager Kim's warning, about the potential career consequences you had faced, Hyunjin's interpretation was understandable—Han had created complications through his own emotional cowardice rather than legitimate concern for your professional future.

"It can't be fixed," Han said finally, the words emerging with quiet resignation. "Some situations don't have simple solutions, no matter how much we might want them to."

His response only seemed to fuel Hyunjin's frustration. "That's convenient, isn't it? Declaring something unfixable rather than actually trying to resolve it."

"You don't understand the full situation," Lee Know interjected, surprising Han with the partial defense. "There are complications beyond what's immediately apparent."

The comment suggested Lee Know had shared at least some of what Han had revealed about Manager Kim's warning, though clearly not with everyone given Hyunjin and Felix's continuing anger. The realization was both concerning and somewhat relieving—Han wasn't carrying the full weight of knowledge alone anymore, yet the circle of awareness was expanding in potentially dangerous ways.

"Then enlighten us," Felix challenged, his usually warm demeanor hardened by concern for you. "Because from where I'm sitting, we're losing someone important because of unresolved personal issues that should never have interfered with the professional environment in the first place."

The accusation stung precisely because it contained truth—the boundaries between personal and professional had indeed blurred beyond recovery, creating the very situation Han had feared from the beginning. Your career was potentially still at risk, but now from a different angle—the premature termination of your Seoul assignment, the unusual contract modification, the implied interpersonal complications that might raise questions with future employers or collaborators.

Before Han could formulate a response to Felix's challenge, a sound broke through the tense atmosphere—a sob, quickly stifled but unmistakable in the otherwise silent room. All heads turned toward I.N., the youngest member's eyes filling with tears he was clearly struggling to contain.

"It's not fair," he said, voice trembling with emotion. "Noona belongs here. With us. With her family."

The raw hurt in his expression, the genuine distress at your impending departure, broke something in Han's carefully maintained composure. I.N. had formed a special bond with you—the sibling-like relationship that had brought him comfort and guidance throughout your time in Seoul. That connection would now be severed prematurely because of Han's actions, his choices, his inability to navigate the complicated feelings between you without creating a situation that drove you away.

"I.N.—" Han began, though he had no idea what comfort he could possibly offer.

"This is your fault!" I.N. exclaimed suddenly, tears flowing freely now as he rose to his feet, hurt transforming into uncharacteristic anger directed squarely at Han. "You did something to make her want to leave, and now she's going away, and everything is ruined!"

The direct accusation from the usually gentle maknae stunned everyone into silence, the unprecedented outburst highlighting just how deeply your impending departure was affecting the group dynamics. I.N.'s relationship with you had been special—the noona/dongsaeng dynamic giving him a different kind of support than he received from the other members.

"You have to fix it," I.N. continued, voice breaking with emotion but conviction unwavering. "Whatever you did or said, you have to make it right. Noona belongs here, with her adoptive family. She was happy here until... until whatever happened between you two."

The plea was so earnest, so heartfelt that Han found himself unable to maintain eye contact, the weight of I.N.'s disappointment too heavy to bear directly. "It's not that simple," he said quietly, the familiar explanation feeling increasingly hollow with each repetition.

"Why not?" I.N. demanded, surprising everyone with his persistence. "If you care about her—and don't pretend you don't, we all see how you look at her—why can't you just be honest? Why can't you fix whatever broke?"

The simple question cut through Han's complex justifications with brutal efficiency. Why couldn't he just be honest? Why couldn't he trust you with the truth about Manager Kim's warning, about his real feelings, about the fear that had driven his decisions? Was protecting your career worth the pain his deception had caused—not just to you and himself, but to others who had formed meaningful connections with you during your time in Seoul?

"I.N., it's more complicated than—" Chan began, trying to defuse the situation with his usual diplomatic approach.

"It's NOT!" I.N. interrupted, tears streaming down his face now as emotion overwhelmed his usual respectful demeanor. "It's only complicated because people make things complicated! If you care about someone, you fight for them! You don't let them leave without even trying to make things right!"

The raw emotion in I.N.'s outburst silenced even Chan, the leader clearly recognizing that this was something the youngest member needed to express rather than be soothed away. I.N. rarely showed such intense feelings, his usually cheerful or thoughtfully quiet demeanor giving way only in exceptional circumstances.

This, apparently, qualified as exceptional.

"Please, hyung," I.N. pleaded, looking directly at Han with tear-filled eyes. "Please fix this. Please don't let noona leave like this."

The naked vulnerability in the request struck Han somewhere fundamental, breaking through layers of justification and self-protection to the core truth he'd been avoiding: his choices had hurt not just you and himself, but others who cared about you both. The ripple effects of his well-intentioned deception had expanded beyond anything he'd anticipated, creating pain he'd never intended.

"I'll try," Han heard himself say, the words emerging before conscious thought could censor them. "I can't promise it will work, but... I'll try."

The commitment, however tentative, seemed to provide I.N. with some measure of comfort. He nodded once, wiping tearfully at his face before retreating to Felix's supportive embrace, the older member murmuring gentle reassurances as he held the still-trembling maknae.

Han looked around the room, taking in the various expressions directed his way—Hyunjin's skepticism, Chan's concerned encouragement, Lee Know's knowing assessment, Changbin's cautious hope. Whatever happened next, whatever attempt he made to resolve the situation with you, would unfold with these witnesses, these people who cared about both of you in different ways.

The protection he'd sought through deception had failed. The careful distance he'd maintained had crumbled. The professional environment he'd prioritized had fractured despite his best efforts. All that remained was truth—however complicated, however potentially consequential, however terrifying in its implications.

You were leaving tomorrow. His time for careful calculations and protective distance had run out. Whatever happened next would require courage he wasn't sure he possessed, honesty he'd been avoiding for weeks.

But I.N.'s tearful plea echoed in his mind, a simple truth cutting through complex adult justifications: if you care about someone, you fight for them. You don't let them leave without trying to make things right.

The question that remained, the one Han would need to answer before facing you with the truth he'd been hiding, was deceptively simple yet profoundly challenging: what was he fighting for? Your career protection? His own emotional safety? The possibility of a relationship that still faced the fundamental challenge of geographic separation in just seven weeks?

As the group meeting dissolved into smaller conversations, plans for potential goodbyes, and processing of what your early departure meant for various members, Han retreated into silent contemplation of this essential question. The answer would determine his next actions, his approach to the precipice he now faced with time rapidly running out.

You were leaving tomorrow. Whatever truth needed sharing, whatever resolution might be possible, would need to happen before you boarded that plane. The countdown had begun, the moment of reckoning approaching with merciless speed.

Han could only hope that whatever courage he managed to summon would be enough, whatever truth he offered would be received, whatever damage existed could be repaired before time ran out completely.

---

As the meeting disbanded, members drifting off in various states of distress and concern, Chan caught Han's eye with a silent gesture toward the balcony. The leader's expression was unreadable, but the intent was clear—a private conversation was needed, away from the emotional chaos of the group.

Han followed with reluctance, knowing what awaited was likely another well-deserved critique of his handling of the situation. The cool evening air offered little relief from the suffocating weight of guilt and regret pressing against his chest as he stepped onto the small balcony, closing the door behind him.

Chan leaned against the railing, silent for a long moment as he gazed out at the city lights. When he finally spoke, his voice was carefully measured, the control of a leader who needed answers rather than emotional catharsis.

"I need the full story, Han. Not bits and pieces, not the sanitized version. Everything."

Han hesitated, instinct still pushing toward protection through selective disclosure. But I.N.'s tearful plea had cracked something fundamental in his resolve, and Chan's steady leadership had earned complete honesty, regardless of how uncomfortable the truth might be.

"Manager Kim called me into his office two weeks ago," Han began, voice low despite the privacy of their location. "Said there were rumors about me and Y/n having an inappropriate relationship. Warned me about the consequences if it was true."

Chan's posture stiffened slightly, but he remained silent, allowing Han to continue uninterrupted.

"For me, it would be disciplinary action, maybe impact on comeback promotions, but nothing career-ending," Han explained, the familiar words bitter on his tongue. "For Y/n? Immediate termination. A formal note in her professional file about contract breach. Blacklisting from JYP and probably other Korean entertainment companies."

"So you ended things to protect her career," Chan surmised, the pieces visibly connecting in his analytical mind. "But you didn't tell her why."

Han nodded, relieved at being understood without needing to justify his actions further. "I was afraid if she knew the truth, she might decide some things were worth the risk. That she might want to continue despite the professional consequences. I couldn't let her make that choice when the damage would fall almost entirely on her."

"So instead," Chan said, his tone sharpening slightly, "you told her what? That your feelings weren't genuine? That it was all circumstantial?"

The accuracy of Chan's guess suggested he'd pieced together more than Han had realized from observation alone. "Something like that," Han confirmed, shame coloring the admission. "I thought a clean break based on fading interest would be easier for her to accept than ongoing risk to her career."

Chan was quiet for a long moment, his breathing measured in the way that those closest to him recognized as controlled anger rather than calm acceptance. When he finally turned to face Han fully, his expression confirmed it—the usually warm, supportive leader was genuinely angry, something Han had rarely witnessed directed at any member, let alone himself.

"Let me make sure I understand this correctly," Chan said, voice dangerously quiet. "Our manager threatened one of my members with career consequences without ever speaking to me. Then that same member made a unilateral decision affecting another team member's emotional wellbeing and our group's dynamic without consulting me. And now we're losing our producer weeks ahead of schedule because both situations were mishandled from the beginning."

Put that way, the failure of communication seemed egregious, the bypassing of Chan's leadership an obvious misstep. Han hadn't considered how the situation might appear from Chan's perspective—not just the personal complications between himself and you, but the direct intervention from management without involving the group's leader.

"I didn't think—" Han began, but Chan cut him off with uncharacteristic sharpness.

"That's exactly the problem. You didn't think. Not about the group dynamics, not about proper channels of communication, and certainly not about what Y/n deserved to know for herself."

The criticism stung all the more for coming from Chan, whose leadership style typically emphasized support and guidance rather than direct confrontation. But the anger wasn't just about Han's decisions, he realized belatedly. It was about Manager Kim approaching Han directly with threats about career consequences without involving Chan as the group's leader and protective buffer between members and management.

"Why didn't you come to me?" Chan asked, the hurt beneath the anger becoming evident in his voice. "When Manager Kim made those threats, why didn't you immediately tell me? That's literally my job, Han—to handle these situations, to protect the members, to interface with management when issues arise."

The question revealed an aspect of the situation Han hadn't fully considered in his panic to protect you—that bypassing Chan might have been perceived as lack of trust in his leadership, an unintended insult to the person who had guided them through countless challenges over the years.

"I was trying to protect Y/n," Han explained weakly, the justification sounding increasingly insufficient with each iteration. "I thought handling it quietly would minimize the risk to her career."

"And instead," Chan replied, "you've created a situation where she's fleeing the country to escape the emotional fallout, the group is in disarray, and our album completion is now complicated by remote collaboration. All because you didn't trust me enough to help navigate this properly from the beginning."

The assessment was brutally accurate, highlighting the cascading failures that had resulted from Han's well-intentioned but ultimately misguided attempt to handle everything himself. He had no defense to offer, no justification that could mitigate the consequences of his choices.

"I'm sorry," he said simply, the words woefully inadequate but genuinely meant. "I should have come to you. I didn't think through all the implications."

Chan's expression softened slightly at the sincere apology, his natural tendency toward forgiveness tempering the justified anger. "No, you didn't. But my real issue isn't even with you right now."

He straightened, a resolute determination replacing the earlier hurt and anger. "Manager Kim had absolutely no right to approach you directly with threats about this situation. That conversation should have come to me first, as the group's leader. The fact that he deliberately circumvented my position to intimidate you individually is completely unacceptable."

The shift in focus surprised Han, who had expected Chan's anger to remain directed primarily at his own failings rather than management's approach. "I didn't think about it that way," he admitted. "I was too focused on the immediate threat to Y/n's career."

"Which is exactly why these structures exist," Chan explained, some of his usual patient leadership returning to his tone. "You were emotionally involved and isolated with this information, making decisions from a place of fear rather than with proper support and perspective. That's on Manager Kim, not just you."

The absolution wasn't complete—Han's choices had still created unnecessary complications—but the sharing of responsibility eased some of the crushing weight he'd been carrying alone. 

"What do we do now?" Han asked, genuine uncertainty in his voice. "Y/n leaves tomorrow. There's no time to untangle all of this."

Chan's expression turned thoughtful, the strategic mind that had guided their group through various challenges already formulating approaches. "Here's what's going to happen. You are going to find Y/n tonight and tell her everything—Manager Kim's warning, your real feelings, the actual reason you ended things. Complete honesty, no more protection through deception."

The directive was clear, allowing no room for argument or evasion. "And then?"

"Then you let her make her own informed choice about what risks she's willing to take and what she wants moving forward," Chan continued firmly. "Whether that's maintaining distance, considering options despite the complications, or something else entirely—it has to be her decision this time, not yours."

The approach made sense, even as it terrified Han to relinquish the control he'd maintained through his protective deception. "And what about Manager Kim? The contract clause? The potential consequences?"

Chan's expression hardened with renewed determination. "You let me handle that. As the leader, it's my responsibility to address management overreach and protect my members—all of them, including our temporary producer who has become part of our family."

The confidence in Chan's voice, the certainty of his leadership in this moment, provided a reassurance Han hadn't realized he desperately needed. He wasn't alone in this situation anymore—the burden of protection and decision-making could be shared with someone whose judgment and authority he trusted implicitly.

"What are you going to do?" Han asked, both curious and concerned about potential repercussions for Chan himself.

"Have a very direct conversation with appropriate parties about chain of command and the proper handling of sensitive situations," Chan replied, his tone suggesting this would be no casual discussion. "What happened—approaching you directly with threats, bypassing my position as leader, creating a situation where both you and Y/n have been suffering unnecessarily—violates protocols that exist for good reasons."

Han hadn't seen this side of Chan often—the fiercely protective leader who, despite his usual diplomatic approach, could become immovable when his members' wellbeing was threatened. It was simultaneously reassuring and slightly intimidating to witness.

"You're willing to confront management over this?" Han asked, concerned about potential blowback for Chan's career as well. "Even with the comeback so close?"

Chan's expression made the answer clear before he verbalized it. "I have always prioritized the wellbeing of this team over corporate politics, and I always will. A leader who doesn't stand up when it matters isn't a leader worth following."

The simple declaration, delivered with absolute conviction, reminded Han why Chan had earned their unwavering trust and respect over the years. His leadership wasn't based on position alone, but on consistent actions that put the group's needs above individual interests—including, sometimes, his own.

"What if Y/n doesn't want to hear the truth now?" Han asked, voicing his deepest fear. "What if it's too late? What if she's already decided to move on?"

"Then at least she'll be making that decision with complete information," Chan replied pragmatically. "And you'll both have the closure of honesty rather than misunderstanding."

The wisdom in this approach was undeniable, however daunting the task of complete disclosure might be. Han nodded slowly, accepting the direction from his leader with the same trust he'd shown countless times throughout their years together.

"Tonight," he confirmed. "I'll talk to her tonight."

"Good," Chan said, some of the tension leaving his shoulders as he sensed Han's commitment. "And Han? No half-measures this time. Complete honesty, regardless of how vulnerable it makes you feel. She deserves that much after everything that's happened."

The instruction was clear—no more protective distance, no more shielding through selective disclosure, no more decisions made on her behalf without her input. Terrifying in its implications but necessary if any resolution was possible before you boarded that plane.

"I understand," Han said quietly, the weight of the task ahead settling on his shoulders. It would require courage he wasn't sure he possessed, honesty he'd been avoiding for weeks. But Chan's confidence, combined with I.N.'s tearful plea, had created an imperative that couldn't be ignored any longer.

Chan placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder, leader and friend in equal measure now rather than disappointed superior. "Remember who you're doing this for—not just for Y/n, not just for the group, but for yourself too. Living with unspoken truth is its own kind of prison, Han. Whatever happens after you speak it, at least you'll be free of that."

The insight struck deeper than Chan likely realized, articulating something Han had felt but couldn't name—the suffocating weight of deception, even when motivated by protection rather than malice. The constant vigilance required to maintain the fiction had become its own form of exhaustion, a burden that had grown heavier with each passing day.

As they returned inside, the conversation concluded but its implications reverberating through Han's consciousness, one truth emerged with undeniable clarity: the time for protection through distance had ended. Only complete honesty remained as a viable path forward, whatever consequences might follow.

You were leaving tomorrow. The countdown had begun. Whatever courage Han could summon, whatever truth needed sharing, whatever resolution might be possible—it had to happen now, before time ran out completely.

With renewed determination tempered by realistic awareness of the challenges ahead, Han began mentally preparing for the conversation that would determine not just his own future, but yours as well. A conversation that should have happened weeks ago, before deception and distance created wounds that might prove impossible to heal.

But Chan believed in the power of truth, even belatedly offered. And Han, despite his fears, had to believe that possibility existed as well—that honesty, however late in coming, might still provide a foundation for whatever came next, even if that was nothing more than understanding and closure before physical separation.

You deserved the truth. And finally, after weeks of protective distance, Han was prepared to offer it—completely, without reservation, regardless of what followed.

Next>>

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[coefore]

I did it! This is an IDW AU born while watching The Green Knight (2021), specifically from one movie shot that I'd like to redraw. I was torn on whether or not to draw them all as robots or humans, so I started making designs for their human counterparts first - mostly because it is more fun to come up with clothes and accessories. I will eventually tackle a robot version. This is a long post, btw!

Indeed, this is a completely separate version from the Lion King AU I had come up with a couple of years ago, I just borrowed the crowns because I really liked those designs lol.

But let's set the stage under the cut. You can listen to the playlist on spotify dedicated to it: I've placed the songs in sequence so that they can create a certain vibe for the scenes I had in mind. You can read the plot part while listening.

Some character traits

This royalty au supposes a parliamentary monarchy (like the UK, Spain or Japan). This work is an in-between of later Roman/early Medieval aesthetics and some Futuristic Stuff. The Autobot brand is the royal family crest, while the Decepticon brand can be used to signal the Protector and their entourage, but only in formal settings outside the nation. Usually, the Protector can show elements of the Decepticon colours (red) in their attires.

Optimus Prime

Optimus is prideful and domineering: he knows he has the power to do real damage to people. After all, he was born into royalty and has known no other life. He has anger outbursts, but that's a side effect of his paranoia. At the start of the story, he is not the prime yet. He's around 23-24, already suffering from a mental affliction much like schizophrenia, but, just as in ye old days, the court and his father (Zeta) are not really concerned about his odd behaviours. "He is just volatile", you know. He is also dramatic, making big scenes when his emotions are too cooped up. Optimus, though, is not intentionally cruel - this isn't a Shattered Glass au where he wants some kind of bloodlust sated. He has a deep inner mind, feeling much more like a philosopher and a writer than a brute. This makes him a little naive, too, having people in court (like Prowl) taking advantage of him - and sometimes even Megatron uses his influence on Optimus to stir him where he wants to. He reads a lot, is curious, and is deeply in love with Megatron - sometimes becoming a little cringy about it. He can be a bit of a goofball, telling jokes and being rather affectionate with his family. Sadly, he's a Pisces.

Megatron

Megatron is a diligent engineer who just so happens to pick the Prime's son's interest at some point while assisting his father (Terminus, a strict, distant man) in a job at court. Optimus and Megatron are the same age. He is aloof, quiet and a very good listener. That means he often allows people to speak over him or for him - that doesn't mean, however, that he isn't going to correct them or speak his mind. He is just a careful man. Coming from a rather cold family environment, he has a hard time expressing his emotions, both verbally and physically: he kisses and hugs, sure, but that doesn't come naturally to him. After becoming protector, he has a hard time getting used to the court lifestyle since he is quite bothered by the intricacies of royal "rituals", may they be clothing, hairstyles or make-up choices. Or Starscream fussing over him about that all day. He also often stands up against abuse of power, especially from Optimus. They fight quite a lot. He enjoys drawing (buildings, like architecture) and reading novels, but he's not particularly cultured. He is also, sadly, an Aquarius. (And transgender, but this has no political or social bearing in the story besides being Rodimus' biological carrier).

Prowl

Prowl is about fifteen years older than Optimus, becoming his advisor once Zeta Prime passes in "a tragic accident". He is ambitious, cunning and... Deceptive. His ultimate goal is to push Optimus to insanity, convince the parliament he is unfit to rule and become reagent in his stead. This would allow him to create an oligarchy with other senators. His words always support Optimus' delusions, abusing the Prime's naivety for his scheming. Prowl thinks of Optimus as an idiot lucky enough to be born in a high position in the social pyramid. He has attempted various times to "warn" Megatron, one of the few people who is extremely suspicious of Prowl. And by warn, I mean having him pushed down the stairs, giving him a nice broken leg. He also acts suspiciously around Rodimus.

Zeta Prime

Zeta Prime was a balanced, careful ruler. He held concerns about his son's future, as he thought Optimus wasn't fit for a leading role. He was a stern man and often frustrated by Optimus' antics. However, their relationship was on good terms. He was "found" dead by Prowl during a political meeting abroad, as he was standing in for Alpha Trion (Zeta's advisor), prompting Optimus' coronation. Zeta wasn't sick, but all primes in this AU suffer from haemophilia (a hereditary illness that makes it harder for the body to stop bleeding).

Rodimus

Rodimus was born three years into Optimus' primacy. He was brought up in a restrictive environment, as Megatron grew more suspicious of Prowl, fearing for Rodimus' safety. That translated into Rodimus feeling anxious when Megatron's not around (for too long, at least) and becoming a little jealous of him, even if it's Optimus taking Megatron's attention. Rodimus uses "dad" for Megatron and "Father" for Optimus. He doesn't like Optimus too much, usually bearing his presence and ignoring him whenever he can, but deep down he worries about his father, too. He is a very knowledgeable child with a vast vocabulary, as he enjoys books of every kind and, just like his dad, he is a good listener, learning a lot from the "adult conversations" around him. Rodimus is often seen together with Starscream (his nanny, in a way lol), who he is fond of but has difficulties showing it. He becomes Prime-to-be at the age of 16, like all Primes.

Starscream

Starscream was the royal alchemist, an inspired researcher and a man of science. He is loyal and has strong opinions on many subjects, especially on morals and ethics. That is also why, during Zeta's late reign, he was demoted to servant with the accusation of insubordination. He is still a high-grade servant, usually dealing with bureaucracy... Until a new Protector shows up, that is. As soon as Megatron becomes a Protector-to-be, he is assigned the role of first maid in assisting him, a task he takes very seriously. Although Megatron's distance and lack of interactions with him drive him quite mad at first, he slowly realises they're quite compatible. Their relationship evolves into confidants and then friends, as Megatron often takes Starscream's side. Also, Starscream has been suspicious of Prowl since day one. He enjoys Rodimus until he starts being a little opinionated pest-- but he's fond of the child, even as he grows older and more anxious. His hobby is sneaking into the court laboratories and fixing whatever annotations made by other alchemists he deems wrong.

Skywarp & Thundercracker

They are part of the Protector's entourage (and Starscream's brothers). Skywarp is a little airheaded, a bit clumsy, and usually focuses on entertainment, mostly writing poems and songs. He is the only one who knows all the intricate inner passages of the court's buildings by heart, meaning he never gets lost. Thundercracker, on the other hand, is a bit more cocky. He is built like a brick, so he helps with manual tasks and is a decent leader, usually picking up the ranks when Starscream is busy. Both of them were not demoted like their brother, they just started working at the court as high-grade servants. They are very loyal to Megatron, although they treat him more like a royal than a friend.

The Plot (generally speaking)

Optimus is interested in this one engineer working at the court he has seen a couple of times in the last few months. He is gorgeous, and it sounds like a fun time to fill in his afternoons, maybe even getting some sex out of it. That's a thing he hasn't lacked in his life, like most royals he was used to having sex workers available at whim. However, Megatron doesn't seem too affected by the Prime-to-be's attention. He is very deadpan and interested in him as a person; he finds Optimus interesting and funny, so, in a matter of weeks, they kind of hit it off, Optimus falling madly in love with this man, spending most of the time daydreaming and absolutely useless at his duties, much to Zeta's dismay.

As this love story progresses over the next couple of years, Prowl's machination starts rolling out: being a young overachiever, he patiently waits for the chance to get rid of Zeta in a way that doesn't point directly to him. After all, Prowl is trusted and seen as loyal and caring for the Primes he serves; he is an incredibly talented actor, having the support of a few Autobot senators, too. On an out-of-country political trip, he lets Zeta bleed to death, coming back home in a hurry to announce the Prime's death and rushing Optimus' coronation. At this point, Optimus is not mentally ready to hold that position; he is quickly pushed to marry Megatron, making him his Protector. In a matter of a year and a half, Optimus' mental state quickly deteriorates, allowing Prowl to take hold of the neo-Prime's decisions.

Optimus' mental illness worsens, which stresses Megatron into stirring his husband away from Prowl. Rodimus is born in that worried, paranoid environment. Although mostly wanted by Optimus as one of his fixations (and also discouraged by Prowl himself), Rodimus brings more stability to the court. Megatron finally takes hold of Optimus' volatile behaviour as Rodimus grows older, making the Prime doubt his advisor's suggestions more than once. Prowl, thus, "warns" Megatron to lay low, having him pushed down the stairs. The goal wasn't to kill Megatron but to show him Prowl could. As Rodimus turns seven, Megatron becomes more anxious and paranoid, rubbing that over to his son. Optimus doesn't allow them to go around the court or outside without being accompanied.

Prowl's hold on Optimus slowly slips away. At the time of Rodimus' coronation as a Prime-to-be, during a medical examination for his haemophilia, the court physician (Ratchet) tells him he needs to be careful, as that illness was Zeta's cause of death. That was a known thing, of course, but it made Optimus think over the mechanics of his father's death in a way only an obsession-driven man can. He confides with Megatron over his suspicion of Prowl killing his father, and finally, they seem to be on the same page on this...

This is somehow the story up to now. I don't know if I'll update it further. I just enjoy the idea of whatever can happen in this setting. I hope you enjoyed reading this wall of text.

[sexxynerd10]

What I’ve manifested using the law of assumption, self concept affirmations & subliminals😩

- Braces + Perfect teeth 🥰

- Jaw dropping beauty (I’m always attracting double takes from men & women!)

- Perfect grades + smooth semester 😝

- A car + the exact interior! (I wanted a Chevy Malibu & kept persisting but ultimately I manifested a Chevy but it was a Chevy Spark, but I manifested every detail of the interior I wanted in my car! ) < I didn’t even drop a dime on this car either 😌😏

- having a powerful intuition (ex. “I am always aware of the hidden truths in others”)

- Money coming in effortlessly without lifting a finger

- Skinny petite figure!

- People respecting me more, putting me in high regard (ex. “I am a high value woman”, “My presence commands respect in any room I step into”, “my name rings bells, literally.”

- My family being sweeter to me & babying me more :) 🩵

If you wanna manifest something really fast the visualization method works best paired with you actually tapping into that feelings of you having it already!

- Tweaks to my personality (ex. I am softer, feminine + lively)

- Environment changes (ex. “My environment is filled with people & passionate moments” )

- Manifesting a job gracefully! “I am hired upon first impression!” , “I am hired on the spot!” 🤑

- Healthy hair/Heathly scalp, (i suffered from severe eczema on my scalp, my scalp is healthy as ever & my hair grows back thicker!) 🤧

- Model beauty + body (often ask me now if I’m into modeling or do I model, some always uplift me to start trying modeling!)

- I am a boss ass bitch (people have told me they see me as stable, put together & high value!, I also snap heads everywhere I go!) 🤣

- Calm & composed character (I used to be very volatile & reactive) 🫡

- Maturity 🥹

—

Hi my name is Unique, I hope you enjoyed my post!

*proof*

[suniverseastro]

ASTROLOGY OBSERVATION #14

Mars in the 2nd house is very possessive

Moon Aquarius is easy to sympathize with those around, although they may have many bad qualities, they will often be ignored by people because of their support in the team. Some in this group when they don't like someone and hate openly can easily recognize their feelings, these people can play bad tricks like using crowds, councils to bully

Here are some of the positions that I don't like very much, doesn't mean they will all be the same and I hate everyone with this aspect, it just brings some difficulties and disadvantages, takes a lot of time time to recognize and transform it:

1. Moon Square/Opposite Pluto: often emotionally volatile and explosive, has difficulty controlling anger, may experience more bad luck with women

2. Moon square / Opposite Uranus: actually this is one of the most horrible corners for me because as far as I know and actually it means about their separation from the mother physically or mentally

3. Venus square/opposite Mars: causes sexual attraction but often changes partners too quickly and gets nowhere

4. Mars Libra: passive in problem solving. The house in this position plays an important role, like the one who moves the pieces tactically. I think it is necessary to add other angles to strengthen this position, especially Pluto to increase ambition and determination.

5. Venus Gemini: often emotional, easy to play emotional roller coaster with others, unpredictable, interesting, but for me this is not a very good position in love, they easily find it difficult. hard to find the right person

6. Moon square/Opposite Saturn: often encounters problems in childhood such as abandonment, working in a difficult, deprived environment, shouldering responsibility, loneliness; They have quite a lot of psychological damage, rarely share, confide, and find it difficult to open their hearts to others. When they learn to be less strict with themselves and learn to accept and love themselves, the door in their souls will lead them to the good things that are waiting for them on the other side of their hearts.

7. Venus square/opposite Uranus: feel less interested in wanting a relationship Some positions I like:

Moon trine/sextile Pluto: I once wished to have this aspect because it gives the ability to read other people's psyches and understand emotions deeply and they themselves also have a protective covering for their minds. mine

Sun trine/sextile Pluto: have their own privilege in society, they can be people whose image others consider as an authority and important figure, admire; Their passion is strong and they will try to do it

Mercury conjunct/ trine/ sextile Neptune: they have acumen, speciality and development in language, can know 2 or more languages, have artistic abilities, their voices are quite cute

Venus trine/sextile Mars: they easily radiate sexual attraction to other people (regardless of gender), which makes it easier for them to have relationships

Ascendant trine/sextile/conjunct Mercury: usually curious, cheerful, child-like eager people, they often have an active, playful appearance.

Ascendant trine/sextile/conjunct Sun: confident, shine, positive energy

Moon in Sagittarius/9th: very active, cheerful, likable, open and optimistic, they respect others and different cultures and religions

Mercury in Gemini: funny people, lots of topics to talk to, easy to talk to anyone, except people they don't like

Mercury conjunct/trine/sextile Pluto: their voice has charm, weight, usually straight to the point, analytical, inquisitive and rarely afraid of knowledge and reason

Moon sextile Venus: cute girls and boys, graceful words, pleasant, non-aggressive, cohesive and peaceful

(a position can't say who you are, everything will change, maybe for the better, maybe for the worse) try to take a deep breath and try to feel the peaceful moment in the present

Thank you everyone for inspiring me to write articles on this topic. Thank you for your love for me; love you all. Wishing you all good health, peace and luck ⭐

[kookygobbledygook]

This one is probably going to stay in the drafts but

If you are angry with Curly for not doing more to protect Anya from Jimmy...

Then why aren't you more angry with Anya for not doing more to protect Curly from Jimmy post-crash.

I'm serious.

Anya is scared of Jimmy. Terrified to the point of hiding the gun so he can't get it. That suggests she literally fears for her life. She knows he's a threat and capable of doing terrible things. She's been the victim of Jimmy's and has bore the brunt of his anger and distain .

And yet she repeatedly asks Jimmy to administer Curly's medicine and then leaves him alone with Jimmy. At this point she thinks Curly caused the crash and Jimmy is furious with Curly for trying to kill them all (not true but she doesn't know that). But Anya asks Jimmy to give the meds again and again, even though she knows Jimmy's volatile, Curly is defenceless and Jimmy lashes out when angry.

"But it made her feel nauseous because of her trauma/pregnancy" - She could have asks Daisuke or Swansea to administer the meds. She could have approached one of the people on board she didn't have definitive proof wasn't abusive and dangerous. She didn't have to put Curly in the hands of her own abuser over and over.

"Curly was the Captain, he had a duty to protect his crew members" - Anya was the nurse. She had a duty of care to protect her patient.

"Anya is scared of Jimmy and doesn't want to put herself in harms way by getting on his bad side" - this would make sense if Jimmy was demanding to be the one to give the meds to Curly. But it's the opposite. He always gets angry and derisive whenever she asks. Once again, why not ask Daisuke to do it?

Maybe this passes people's notice because they haven't worked in an environment where you have to watch for medical abuse or neglect. Maybe SA is - tragically- something more people have experience with, so it resonates with them more. And this is not me trying to tear apart the only female character in this game for not being perfect and for not prioritising a man over herself. Anya's position throughout the game is harrowing and she doesn't deserve her fate.

But I think it's an important parallel to recognise that before the crash Anya was powerless against Jimmy and Curly's inaction caused her harm. After the crash their situations have been reversed; Curly is now at Jimmy's mercy and Anya does nothing to intervene.

[dasha022]

.

In Amity Park, where spectral activity had always been more intense than in other places characterized by such phenomena, the representatives and explorers appointed by the government, under the guidance of the Fentons, attempted to deploy a containment network for the unknown entities that had become recurrent in the area over the past few years.

The initial idea was simple: treat ghosts as threats to human security. After all, the attacks and incidents in which they were involved showed that they lacked rational thought when dealing with humans. Devoid of empathy, feelings, or a defined moral compass, ghosts acted without remorse in many of the cases documented by the Fentons and in collaboration with the follow-up investigations carried out by the GIW.

Thus, the installation of containment devices in Amity Park, the epicenter of the disaster, was carried out. The belief was that this would prevent a massive expansion to other populated areas. Dr. Fenton, along with her husband’s support, was assigned to work on the project in collaboration with several GIW delegates.

But what seemed like an organized plan to protect the city quickly turned into a battlefield. The ghosts, feeling hunted and trapped, began to grow more volatile in their appearances.

Instead of containing them, the repression only fueled the violence. The situation escalated when the echoes of this confrontation spread, reaching other entities, other areas.

The government named it: Persistent Ectoplasmic Interference.

The Justice League heard part of the matter, and although they did not interfere directly, they kept monitoring everything and investigating through their own means. Their responsibilities were many, and their enemies more tangible. But that didn’t mean they were waiting to be caught off guard.

They didn’t break the boundaries set by the government and its management of the situation, but in the shadows, they tracked and gathered every relevant piece of information.

When spectral activity began to touch the borders of the cities defended by several league members — Central City, Star City, Metropolis — the government delegates and involved branches found it difficult to keep the heroes out of the matter.

Spontaneous portals, invisible presences, energy disturbances that even the Lanterns could not filter. The so-called ‘ghosts’ didn’t cause turmoil or disasters as predicted in the records obtained. At least not indiscriminately. They had specific zones, places, sites to attack.

The heroes found it difficult to try to stop them. Even with the Fenton technology that Batman, Cyborg, Flash (Wally West), and Red Robin had adapted to fight them.

It was then that Danny Nightingale, ex-Fenton, appeared before them.

Danny offered reports. Dimensional maps, ghost classifications, containment protocols without harm. Technology that surpassed that of his parents, from whom he seemed distant. According to him, his thoughts on ghosts were vastly different. To him and his older sister, their parents were too caught up in their opinions to see beyond their partial research. And those who sponsored and supported them were even more so.

With his collaboration with the League, the young man wanted to prove that yes: some ghosts were hostile. But many more simply existed. And that, he said, was not a crime.

The League accepted his help. Or so he thought.

But where Danny saw understanding, they saw patterns. Patterns that could be coded. Predicted. And controlled.

Thus, the Rehousing Project was born. Not an offensive, but a “protection strategy.” Its mission was clear: to identify spectral entities not recognized by dimensional continuity, neutralize those that affected the human environment, and isolate all those that escaped the boundaries of the “comprehensible.”

Neither Deadman nor Greta were mentioned in the documents. Because they were “different beings.” Singular souls trapped in this world after being unable to transcend to the proper rest, whether through magic or dark arts. Not like the erratic specters who continued causing havoc without reasoning or understanding the fragility of cities and those who inhabited them.

And when Ember McLain, the ghost of what the GIW categorized as an amplified lament, exploded during a concert, causing significant emotional imbalance among the participants, the problem escalated even further.

Ember was overwhelmed by what was happening to her kind, many of her loved ones had disappeared. They had rescued many, but not all were found. So, when she felt the fear, the rejection, the contempt burning her throat — she used her gift, out of desperation. Not to dominate. But to make them listen. To make them feel.

But when she projected her voice onto the human minds, pushing emotions to the surface of thousands of people… she only reinforced their fears. And the decision was unanimous: one could not trust beings that felt so differently.

That day, most of the heroes were convinced that ghosts were not living beings with complex emotions.

They were anomalies. Reactions. Echoes with teeth.

And that same day, Danny stopped being the hero ally.

😉

https://archiveofourown.org/works/64465951/chapters/166867915#workskin