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greenbuns · 8 days ago

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SOULBOND | e.w

written by greenbuns

° . Pairings : Ellie Williams × Fem!Reader (as Agatha Spade - OC)

° . Contains : fantasy, romance-comedy, enemies to lovers trope, magic academy, swearing, bickering, banters, reader despise ellie and vice versa (but that'll slowly change <3), denial, slow burn, eventual confession

Synopsis & Full Chapters [HERE]

CHAPTER 02 ; 冷熱

"Cold and Heat"

⋇⋆✦⋆⋇

° ⋇⋆✧⋆⋇ °

☆— THE academy stands tall as a beacon of arcane excellence and elemental mastery, constructed in grand Victorian style, its architecture is both majestic and palatial. The main academy grounds are divided into several key buildings and outdoor areas, each serving a unique function in shaping the elemental mages.

The heart of the institution lies within the Astrarion Main Building, a four-story marvel that hosts most of the academy’s educational and ceremonial functions.

Nearby stands the cozy yet well-organized Academy Dorm, a two-floor residence split by elemental house affiliation. House Ignis and House Bumi filled the first floor, House Tides and House Aero in the upper floor. Each house’s quarters are decorated in their respective elemental motifs, encouraging unity and pride within their ranks.

A short distance away is the secluded Arcbind Quarters, this is a single-story building that used exclusively during the upper-year students’ final evaluations. It serves as temporary housing for student pairings undergoing intense elemental bonding trials.

And it is where Ellie and Agatha will be staying for the next six months.

The door to Room 13 slammed open with the force of a minor hurricane. "Dibs on the left side," Ellie barked, tossing her bag across the threshold without even stepping in.

Agatha, standing directly behind her with a stack of perfectly arranged labeled storage boxes, did not even blink. "I don't believe in 'dibs.' That's not a legal claim."

Ellie turned and gave her a flat look. "You're no fun."

"I'm organized," Agatha replied, "And punctual. Two things you clearly are not."

The room itself was surprisingly nice—for a forced cohabitation cell.

Two desks sat across from each other like dueling stations. A fireplace enchanted with ever-burning coals crackled softly between twin velvet chairs. Shelves curved into the corners, already humming with protective enchantments and dust-repelling charms. There was even a shared alchemical sink with twin copper faucets enchanted to dispense heated or chilled water.

At the center of the back wall, a tall window framed the sprawling peaks of Mount Sapphire, mist trailing its ridges like breath. And to either side of it stood two beds-perfectly symmetrical, dangerously unclaimed.

"I said left," Ellie repeated, striding in and flinging herself dramatically onto the left bed.

Agatha remained by the door, "And I'm saying you only said it after hurling your belongings like a wild boar with luggage."

Ellie smirked from the mattress. "Don't be jealous of my efficiency."

"I'm jealous of whoever doesn't have to live with you."

"Wow. Already flirting."

Agatha's brow twitched, but she set her boxes down with careful precision anyway. One, two, three-stacked and aligned like they belonged in a museum. Ellie watched her with mild horror.

"You cataloged your potions by viscosity?"

"Yes. And aroma index. Some of us care about not poisoning ourselves."

"I like to live dangerously."

"You like to be a walking insurance hazard."

⋆ ✦ ⋆ ✦ ⋆

Magical dorms, especially the older ones, tended to take on the energy of their inhabitants. And this one was old—the walls themselves had personality. Built before the Elemental Concord was even signed, Room 13 had seen more inter-house feuds than a season of Royal Court Scandals.

Which meant it noticed everything.

By the third argument—this one over whether Ellie's firestones were a safety hazard or Agatha's glass potion vials were "pretentiously over-labeled"—the room had begun reacting.

A ceiling sconce flickered whenever Agatha raised her voice.

A rug tried to trip Ellie every time she muttered "ice princess."

Their twin wardrobes kept swapping clothing drawers just to mess with them.

By the fifth passive-aggressive insult, the enchanted mirror between their desks offered a helpful suggestion;

"Have you tried NOT being hostile? Just a thought."

They both threw socks at it.

Agatha groaned frustratedly, "Let's just pack our things up," she spoke with a loud sigh at the end, and Ellie agreed for once.

The auburn girl unpacked like a whirlwind, tossing items into drawers without looking. Her firestones clinked into a metal box. Loose spell scrolls fluttered onto her desk. A small stuffed red dragon—a charm from her childhood—was placed gently beside her pillow.

Agatha, meanwhile, laid out every object with surgical precision. Potion vials in order of volatility. A lineup of quills sharpened to a military standard and organized books by colors. She placed a framed photo of her and her older sister—both in matching House Tides robes—at the center of her desk.

Ellie caught sight of it and tilted her head. "She looks like you, but taller. Less... icy."

Agatha didn't look up. "She graduated top of her class. Specializes in oceanic wards."

Ellie raised an eyebrow. "Parental pressure much?"

"No. Personal excellence." Agatha snapped the final lid shut on a drawer. "You wouldn't recognize it."

"Burn."

"You'd enjoy it."

Ellie grinned despite herself. "Okay, that one was good."

By the time their trunks were empty and every shared surface had been silently claimed through sheer territorial energy, the sun had dipped below the spires of the college. A heavy hush settled in, broken only by the occasional distant hoot of a campus owl or the sputtering flicker of the enchanted fireplace. Neither Ellie nor Agatha spoke as they moved through the evening routine like reluctant shadows—brush teeth, ward windows, pretend the other wasn't there.

But the air between them was thick with something unspoken; not quite tension, not quite curiosity. A strange static lingered. And when they finally crawled into their beds—backs turned, walls mentally raised—neither could shake the sense that the room itself was waiting. Watching. Holding its breath.

That night, as they each lay in their beds trying to pretend the other didn't exist, the dorm hummed softly with residual tension.

Agatha turned to face the window. "Do not snore."

Ellie, already halfway asleep, mumbled, "Do not be so boring it echoes."

Silence stretched between them, brittle and charged.

"I'm not soulbonded to you," Agatha muttered after a long silence.

"Please. I'd soulbond with a gorgon before I'd link with you," Ellie replied.

The lamp between them fizzed slightly.

The fireplace flared higher.

And from somewhere inside the stone walls, the dorm gave a tiny, magical giggle.

⋆ ✦ ⋆ ✦ ⋆

The next day, by the following afternoon, Ellie had already contemplated five different ways to fake a stomach hex to skip their first lab session together.

Unfortunately, none of them passed Agatha's "plausibility" test.

"You don't get intestinal curse symptoms from eating toast," Agatha said flatly, not even glancing up from her neat lab packet as they walked through the long and huge corridor toward the east wing of the academy's main building.

Ellie scowled. "It was blackened toast. There's a difference."

"Not to your intestines. Just your dignity."

The sun filtering through the high glass-paneled hallway made the school look almost serene, if not for the crackling tension pulsing between the two girls like the aftermath of a thunderclap. Students passed them on either side, whispering about new lab pairings, upcoming assessments, and the rumor that two third-years in House Bumi had accidentally reverse-polarized an elemental stream and turned their professor's robe into living ivy.

Ellie tried to focus on that ridiculous mental image, but her mood soured again as they reached the double doors of CR 202: Advanced Elemental Fusion Lab—a classroom that looked more like a cathedral greenhouse than a place of learning. Sunlight cascaded through glass domes overhead, casting prismatic colors on the lab tables, racks of reagents, and—at the center—a glowing convergence stone thrumming with quiet power.

Half the class was already settled in. Fire and water pairs, air and earth. Some were smiling politely. Some already looked ready to brawl.

And standing in the center like the conductor of a chaos symphony was Professor Miller, draped in violet robes embroidered with sigils that pulsed faintly in rhythm with the convergence stone.

"Ah, Williams and Spade," he said as they entered. "Back row, left. Try not to annihilate anything today."

Agatha offered a curt nod. Ellie gave her best slouch and muttered something that could've been "Sure, Professor" or "Save me, gods." No one cared to clarify.

They moved to their table, an ornate crystalline surface etched with magic channels that glittered faintly under the light. As they sat, the surface pulsed once in response. Or perhaps in warning.

Agatha unrolled the class packet without ceremony. "We're starting with a Harmonized Spark Pulse."

Ellie groaned, "Great. Baby magic."

"It's a tier-two elemental reaction spell designed to test fusion. Which, clearly, we lack."

"Speak for yourself. I'm delightful."

"You're unpredictable."

Ellie smirked, "Same thing."

Agatha ignored her and skimmed the spell instructions again. The exercise required them to simultaneously channel opposing elements—Ellie, fire; Agatha, water—so their spells would meet at the table's center and form a stable spark pulse. If executed in harmony, it would create a warm, glowing sphere of neutralized energy.

If not... well, reactions varied.

On their first attempt, they got a reaction all right.

"Three, two, now!"

Agatha's mist spell launched like a precise arrow. Ellie's flame, however, veered left and struck a containment beaker. The resulting blast sent steam, glass shards, and the scent of toasted lemongrass into the air.

Agatha calmly wiped ash from her cheek.

"Okay," Ellie said, coughing, "that one's on me."

"Shocking."

They tried again.

Ellie adjusted her timing. Agatha hesitated a fraction longer to match. This time, Ellie's flame arced perfectly, but Agatha's mist was colder than expected. The collision froze midair and shattered into sparkling frost.

The entire lab turned to stare.

Professor Miller didn't say a word, but the corner of his mouth twitched, almost imperceptibly. Disappointment? Amusement? Hard to tell.

Ellie leaned forward with a sigh. "What if we just pretend that we were dating last semester and fake a phenomenal breakup?"

Agatha didn't smile. But her quill paused for half a second. "We'd have to fake the part where we liked each other."

"Ouch. You wound me."

"Not yet. But we're only on week one."

They reset the spell circle in silence.

Something shifted.

No countdown this time. No sarcasm.

Just eye contact. Sharp. Focused. Charged.

Ellie lifted her wand. A steady, controlled flame sparked to life.

Agatha mirrored her, releasing a ribbon of condensed mist that flowed from her wand like river silk.

They cast.

The elements collided in the center—not with a bang, but with a breath.

A golden orb shimmered into existence between them, floating serenely. The hum it emitted was soft and constant, resonating through the table and into their fingertips. The energy spiraled slowly, like a heartbeat made of light.

The room fell quiet.

Even the convergence stone glowed brighter.

Ellie and Agatha sat frozen, watching the orb flicker in the air-balanced, stable, impossibly warm.

Then—pop.

The orb exploded in a harmless but bright burst of light, sending a ripple of heat and mist outward. Students gasped. One table yelped as their papers caught the breeze.

"That was not supposed to happen," Agatha muttered, shielding her eyes.

Ellie rubbed the back of her neck. "Did that orb purr?"

"It hummed," Agatha corrected. "Light magic reacts that way when—" She stopped. Blinked. "—when the casters are in sync."

Ellie turned slowly to her. "You mean like... soulbond sync?"

"No." Agatha stood up too fast, smoothing her robes. "Absolutely not. It's probably just a fluke. Anomalous readings happen all the time. Magic's inherently unstable."

Ellie grinned. "You're babbling."

"I am reasoning. There's a difference."

"You're blushing."

"I am warm. Because someone keeps setting the table on fire."

"You're welcome."

Professor Miller was already striding toward them, his footsteps sharp against the crystal floor.

"Well," he said, stopping in front of their scorched table. "Either you've accidentally accessed a previously undocumented fusion tier... or you're hiding a magical conduit link neither of you understand."

Ellie blinked. "...Is that a compliment?"

"It's a warning," Miller replied, tone clipped but intrigued. "Convergent anomalies like that can be dangerous if left unchecked. If it happens again, report it immediately."

Agatha was already scribbling on her parchment. "It won't happen again."

"It better not," Miller said with a glance between them. "Because if it does, you'll both be reassigned to Spell Synchronization Observations. And those involve long-term testing. Together."

The word together hung in the air like an actual curse.

Ellie and Agatha exchanged a look. Neither said what they were thinking.

They didn't have to.

Hours passed as they finally left the classroom. The walk back to their dorm was quieter than usual.

The late afternoon sun glinted off the roofs of the academy's elemental towers, casting long golden highlight across the reflecting ponds. A breeze tugged at their robes. The grass underfoot was still dewy.

Ellie kicked a pebble down the path back to the pairing dorm. "So.. that thing. The orb."

"A misfire," Agatha said too quickly.

"A misfire that purred."

"It hummed."

"Fine, sorry."

"It was an anomaly," Agatha insisted. "These things happen in labs. Magic is unpredictable. Particularly when... the casters are opposites."

Ellie tilted her head. "It reacted like we were in sync."

"We're not."

"Tell that to the convergence stone."

Agatha didn't answer.

The dorm door loomed ahead, ivy climbing the side like veins of stone. The building felt warmer than usual when they reached for the handle-warmer, and somehow aware.

Their hands brushed the doorknob at the same time.

It sparked.

Not sharply. Just a little spark. A tingling shock that traveled from finger to wrist like magic recognizing magic.

They pulled their hands back.

Stared at each other.

"I'm not soulbonded to you," Agatha said immediately.

Ellie folded her arms. "You said that last night."

"Well, it's still true."

"Keep saying it. Eventually the universe might believe you."

The door opened by itself, as if tired of waiting.

Inside, the fireplace was already lit—though neither of them remembered starting it—and two mugs of tea steamed on the desk. Identical. Perfectly centered. No note, no spell trace.

They didn't ask.

They just stood there, silent in the middle of a dorm that was clearly beginning to form opinions.

"I'm taking first shower," Ellie muttered.

Agatha rolled her eyes. "Fine. But hurry."

"Try not to ice over the plumbing."

"Not making promises."

Ellie paused at the bathroom door and threw a glance over her shoulder.

"That orb thing... you think it could happen again?"

Agatha hesitated. "No."

Ellie nodded slowly. "Okay."

She stepped into the bathroom.

Behind her, Agatha whispered, too softly to be heard, "I hope not."

But the dorm heard. And the walls? They hummed again.

⋆ ✦ ⋆ ✦ ⋆

It began with thunder.

A low, growling rumble that rolled through the dark mountains surrounding the academy just past midnight. The kind that vibrated in your ribs and stirred the air like a warning. Rain followed minutes later-sharp, cold needles pelting the dormitory windows with rising force.

The candlelight flickered in Dorm 13. The enchanted fireplace hissed as the elemental wards crackled to life, casting protective runes across the stonework. Normally, that would've been enough to keep the storm at bay.

Normally.

But tonight, the sky had teeth.

A bolt of lightning slammed into one of the tower's sky runes with a sound like a gods-damned war drum. Magic flared in retaliation, and the warding system across academy spasmed in a strobe of wild energy.

In their dorm, every spell-triggered charm blinked red.

And then the ceiling began to leak.

"What the hell?" Ellie shot upright in bed, blanket tangled around one ankle. She blinked into the dark, squinting as water dripped steadily from the glowing rune panel above her dresser. "Spade?"

A muffled groan came from across the room. "If this is another prank illusion-"

"It's not!" Ellie snapped, hopping down barefoot onto cold tile. "The dorm's leaking. The wards are flaring!"

Agatha sat up fully now, her braid half-undone and sleep creasing her cheek. She caught the shimmer of blue light flashing along the walls, sigils sputtering like they were glitching through a spell loop.

"No," she said, voice sharp with recognition. "It's not just leaking. The elemental warding's destabilized."

"Great," Ellie muttered. "Love a midnight magical system failure."

A new crack of thunder sent another surge of magic rattling through the stone. A burst of cold wind whooshed down the chimney, extinguishing the fireplace in a hiss of steam. The sudden temperature drop made both girls shiver.

Then came the alarm.

A shrill, high-pitched ringing from the corridor—a dorm-wide enchantment meant to signal elemental imbalance. Ellie turned in a slow circle, watching steam rise from the floor vents and condensation bead along the windows.

"We need to redirect the overload," Agatha said, already grabbing her wand from the nightstand. "If the system can't stabilize itself—"

"It'll blow out the whole dorm," Ellie finished grimly, wand in hand. "Water damage and fire hazard. Delightful."

"No time to change. Let's go."

The two scrambled into the center of the room. The air sparked faintly around them, humidity clinging to their skin like charged silk. They dropped into mirrored stances instinctively, backs angled away from each other.

"Anchor the vents," Agatha instructed. "If I can freeze the upper wards, you can rebalance the heat."

"You giving me orders, Spade?"

"Do you want to drown?"

Ellie sighed, "...Proceed."

They moved fast. Agatha shot a sequence of precise sigils toward the ceiling, layering condensation spells with freeze anchors.

"Fuck, I need to pee."

"Don't you dare, pyromaniac!"

Ellie grumbled but then followed with bursts of controlled flame—not hot enough to ignite, but warm enough to equalize the pressure and prevent another vent burst.

It was working. For a moment.

Until a wave of rogue storm energy surged through the central hearth rune.

A blinding blue-white pulse exploded across the floor.

"Shit–Williams, behind you!"

She whirled—but not fast enough. The magic collided with her flame mid-cast, forcing her backward.

Agatha reached for her instinctively, grabbing Ellie's wrist before she hit the wall.

That's when it happened.

The world tilted.

Not physically. Not magically, not entirely. But something clicked in the space between them. A thread pulled taut. Cold and heat, met each other not in opposition—but in equilibrium.

Agatha gasped.

Ellie hang tight.

Their spells flared (again) but this time, they didn't burst or cancel out.

They merged.

A spherical field of golden-blue energy spiraled out from where their hands touched. It hovered in the center of the room like a heartbeat. The alarms silenced. The steam vanished. The temperature normalized.

The chaos ended.

Breathing hard, soaked with sweat and rain and residual panic, they stood in the center of a dorm that now glowed with faintly pulsing harmony.

"Wh... what did we just-" Ellie's voice was barely above a whisper.

Agatha's hand was still on her wrist. Her eyes wide. Her pulse erratic.

"That shouldn't have worked," she murmured. "We didn't cast any structured convergence sigils. We didn't speak. We didn't sync-"

"But we did," Ellie said. "Didn't we?"

Agatha looked at her.

Ellie looked back.

The magical field gently dissolved around them, like snow melting into still water.

Silence pressed in, thicker than before. The kind of silence that held questions no textbook could answer.

"I didn't mean to-" Ellie started, stepping back.

"No," Agatha said quickly. "I know. Neither did I."

They stood there, dripping, trembling slightly. Not from fear, but from something stranger.

Familiarity. Recognition. Like something old had woken up between them.

Ellie broke eye contact first. "I'm gonna relight the fire.. And use the bathroom."

Agatha huffed but nodded quickly. "I'll check the ceiling rune."

Finally, they turned away at the same time.

Ellie whispered to the fireplace. Agatha traced cooling sigils above the window. Neither spoke again for the rest of the night.

The dorm, for its part, stayed very, very quiet.

Almost like it was listening.

Understood. [✧]

✦ TO BE CONTINUED ✦

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areyoufuckingcrazy · 2 months ago

Text

“Red and Loyal” pt.4

Commander Fox x Senator Reader

They brought her out at dusk.

The sky above the capital bled violet and gold, and the light made her look almost ethereal as she was marched up the execution platform. Chained. Stoic. Dignified even in ruin.

Crowds were forced to gather—citizens herded into the central square at blaster-point. Droids lined the rooftops. Separatist banners hung in place of the planet’s colors, waving like a threat in the wind.

She climbed the steps herself. Unassisted.

And when she reached the top, she paused—not for fear. But to look at them. Her People.

Their eyes were wide with despair, faces hollow from weeks of fear. Some wept. Others stood still. Waiting. Hoping. A broadcast droid hovered beside the stage, recording every breath. Streaming it across the planet.

A voice crackled through the speakers: “The prisoner has been granted final words.”

And that’s when she stepped forward.

Back straight. Chin raised. Wrists still bound in front of her.

The wind caught her hair as she spoke.

Clear. Commanding. Unshaken.

“To those watching—this is not the end. Not of me, and not of our world.”

“The Separatists think that by putting me to death, they are ending our resistance. But they have forgotten something: power taken by force is fragile. It fears truth. It fears unity. It fears voices like mine, and hearts like yours.”

“They want me to kneel. They want me to beg. But I will not.”

“I will not validate tyranny with silence.”

“You are not alone. You are not broken. And this planet—my home—is not theirs to take.”

“Let my death be the last one they claim. Let it mark the moment we stop fearing them.”

“Let it mark the beginning.”

The droids shifted.

The crowd held its breath.

She smiled, just a little—chin still raised, defiant.

“Now do what you came to do.”

⸻

Inside the lead gunship, the air was thick with silence—not calm. No one dared speak.

General Kenobi stood near the holoprojector at the center of the cabin, his arms crossed, lips pressed into a grim line. The flickering holo-feed of the senator’s execution streamed in front of him, unstable from planetary interference—but still very real.

Commander Cody stood beside him, helmet in the crook of his arm, eyes fixed.

The Senator stood tall at the execution stage, her final words still ringing through the feed like a siren in every clone’s chest.

Then—movement.

A droid officer stepped forward. The executioner. Mechanical. Cold. Lifting the electro-guillotine’s lever with clinical efficiency.

A hush fell over the crowd in the square. And the gunship. Cody’s hand curled tight around his helmet.

Kenobi’s voice was low, nearly a whisper “Punch it. Full speed. No stealth.”

“Sir, we’re still—”

“I said punch it.”

The gunship lurched forward, engines screaming. Through the cockpit, the capital city loomed on the horizon—flames and smoke rising in dark plumes, Separatist cruisers blotting the sky.

The other ships of the 212th fell into formation behind them.

Then— Back on the holo, the droid’s hand reached for the trigger.

Cody spoke, rough and urgent:

“ETA?!”

“Forty-five seconds!”

“That’s too long!” Cody snapped, slamming his helmet on.

Kenobi looked at him.

And Cody looked back, voice hard and cracking.

“We’re not losing her. Not today.”

The droid’s arm lifted. The crowd gasped—some screamed. The Senator did not flinch.

And then— A shriek cut through the sky.

Not from the crowd. But from the air above.

Gunships.

The sky erupted in sound and fire. The first blaster bolts rained down on the droid ranks from above—precision strikes that sent sparks and scrap flying. Clones rappelled from hatches, dropping in formation onto the stage and into the square, weapons drawn.

The executioner droid turned its head toward the noise—too slow.

Cody landed hard, blaster raised, shot clean through its neck.

“Move!” he barked, before even touching ground fully.

He was at her side in seconds, cutting her binders off with a vibroblade, catching her by the elbow as explosions tore through the square.

She stared at him, breathless—confused, stunned.

“Told a friend I’d bring you home,” he said, already pulling her toward the evac point.

She could barely hear over the thunder of battle, but—

“Fox?” she managed to ask.

Cody gave her a sharp look.

“He’s waiting.”

The capital was a storm.

The skies above roared with the thunder of Republic gunships, a flurry of blaster fire lighting up the heavens. Clones dropped from the ships like falling stars, armor gleaming through the smoke. The ground was a mess of war cries and destruction. Explosions lit up the streets as they tore through the Separatist droids, reclaiming what had once been the heart of a peaceful planet.

Commander Cody led the charge through the square, his blaster spitting rapid fire as he moved with precision. The 212th behind him was a wall of determined soldiers, every step driven by the need to push back the invaders.

The Senator was not far behind, protected now by Cody and a handful of soldiers. She had been silent after their initial exchange, still catching up to the fact that she had not just been freed, but had escaped. That moment, the seconds between life and death, still played in her mind. But now, her survival was in her hands—her people were counting on her to lead.

Cody’s voice cut through the chaos.

“Keep moving! We retake the streets, now!”

He fired again, taking down a B1 battle droid that had been lining up to fire on them. The clatter of its parts hitting the ground was quickly drowned out by the next round of blaster fire.

The droids were falling fast—at first, it had been a gamble, a sudden drop on the city with the 212th spearheading the attack. The Separatists had been too scattered, too slow to adapt.

Kenobi’s gunship circled low, dodging enemy fire, as the General looked toward the street where Cody had just led a successful push.

“Cody, report,” Kenobi called over comms, his voice calm but laced with urgency.

“We’re advancing into the city center, General,” Cody’s voice crackled through the comm.

“The Separatists are holding strong, but we’re pushing through. We have Senator [Y/N] with us.”

Kenobi paused, a hint of something like relief crossing his face.

“Understood. We’ll clear the way from here. Hold your position.”

The Senator was breathless but unwavering as they moved. She could feel her pulse pounding in her chest as they cut through alleyways and streets, the sounds of blaster fire and explosions echoing around them.

“We’re close,” Cody said, glancing over his shoulder. He had a protective edge in his eyes now, the intensity in his posture evident. “We’ll get you to safety, but you need to stay down.”

She nodded, moving faster, more instinctive than ever. She had always been a symbol of hope, but now, in the face of overwhelming danger, her defiance turned into raw strength.

Her eyes flashed as she scanned the buildings ahead of them.

“We must take back the government building. We need to signal the people of this planet.”

Cody didn’t argue. There was no time for it. They continued their advance, cutting through Separatist forces as they went.

As they neared the government building, they were met with resistance.

A small battalion of droids stood guard, the tallest among them a heavily armored AAT. The droid commander barked orders as blaster fire erupted in every direction.

“Cover fire!” Cody yelled.

The squad spread out, with Thire, Stone, and the others taking positions to cover the senator. The sound of blaster fire echoed back and forth, the crash of explosions reverberating in the streets.

Cody moved first, leaping into the fray with blaster raised, cutting through the advancing droids. His men followed suit, the ground littered with the bodies of fallen droids and debris.

And then, from above—the unmistakable roar of an incoming Republic ship.

The 212th’s gunship descended rapidly, flanking the droids from the rear and creating chaos in their ranks.

Kenobi’s voice rang out over comms, firm and commanding.

“Cody, the building is clear. Move the senator there. We’ll handle the remaining forces.”

Without hesitation, Cody gestured to the senator.

“This way, Senator,” he said, his tone softer now.

She nodded, allowing herself to be guided into the government building’s entrance. The sounds of the battle faded for a moment as they crossed the threshold.

The Republic forces held their ground.

Minutes later, the Separatists began to retreat, their lines weakening under the relentless pressure from Kenobi and his men.

As the last of the droids fell and the gunships circled overhead, the city slowly began to settle. The fires still burned, the sky still blackened with smoke—but for the first time in weeks, there was something that felt like hope.

Cody took a moment, his blaster still at the ready, scanning the surroundings for any remaining threats. The senator stood tall beside him, her eyes locked on the city outside the window.

“We’ve done it,” she murmured, though her voice lacked the triumph one might expect.

“Not yet,” Cody said, his gaze steady. “But we will.”

⸻

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#tcw fox #fox x reader #commander fox #commander fox x reader #clone trooper x reader #clone wars #star wars #star wars fanfic #star wars the clone wars #the clone wars headcanons #clone x reader #commander cody

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snapmite1998 · 9 months ago

Text

As Crimson Dawn seeks to expand its influence into the frozen world of Kijimi, it confronts formidable opposition in the form of the Ashiga Clan, a powerful and respected criminal dynasty that operates under a strict code of honor. The Ashiga, structured like a Melitto hive, prioritize the survival of the collective over individual interests, creating a tightly-knit organization that thrives in the chaotic underworld of crime. This clash between the two factions not only highlights the complexities of power and loyalty but also sets the stage for a brutal struggle for dominance over Kijimi.

The Ashiga Clan: Structure and Philosophy

1. Hive Structure

- Collective Mindset: The Ashiga Clan operates on a hierarchical structure resembling a Melitto hive, with each member aware of their role and responsibility to the greater whole. This structure fosters strong kinship bonds and a sense of unity among members, enhancing their loyalty.

- Roles and Responsibilities: Members are assigned specific duties based on their skills and strengths, from enforcers and diplomats to strategists and assassins. Each role is vital to the clan's survival, and the success of the collective is prioritized over individual ambitions.

2. Code of Honor

- Honor and Sacrifice: The Ashiga Clan's code of honor dictates that members are willing to sacrifice their lives for the well-being of the clan. This unwavering commitment bolsters morale and creates an unshakeable loyalty among members, making them fierce warriors in defense of their territory and interests.

- Reputation and Alliances: The Ashiga's adherence to their code of honor facilitates the establishment of alliances and partnerships with other criminal organizations. Their reputation for loyalty and mutual respect makes them a sought-after ally and a feared adversary in the underworld.

3. Advantages in the Underworld

- Covert Operations: The clan’s structured hierarchy allows for efficient communication and execution of covert operations. Their deep connections with various factions create a robust network that enables them to gather intelligence and respond swiftly to threats.

- Resilience: The willingness of clan members to die for one another creates an atmosphere of resilience and determination. When engaged in conflicts, they stand firm against adversaries, knowing that they fight not just for themselves, but for their entire clan.

The Crimson Dawn Invasion

1. Strategic Objectives

- Expansion into Kijimi: Crimson Dawn views Kijimi as a key strategic location for expanding its influence in the Outer Rim. The planet's resources and position offer opportunities for illicit trade and a foothold in the region’s criminal underbelly.

- Elimination of Competition: To achieve their objectives, Crimson Dawn intends to weaken the Ashiga Clan’s power, either through sabotage, manipulation, or direct confrontation. By undermining their operations, they seek to claim Kijimi for themselves.

2. Tactics and Operations

- Coercive Strategies: Crimson Dawn employs a range of tactics to disrupt Ashiga operations, including targeted assassination of key clan members, infiltration of their ranks, and attempts to sway individual members with promises of power and riches.

- Use of Bribery and Corruption: Utilizing their vast resources, Crimson Dawn attempts to bribe local officials and disrupt supply routes that the Ashiga Clan relies upon. They may spread rumors to create distrust and fractures within the clan.

3. Resistance from the Ashiga Clan

- Defending Their Territory: The Ashiga Clan, aware of the incursion, responds by bolstering their defenses and enhancing security. They gather intelligence on Crimson Dawn's movements and counteract their efforts with guerrilla tactics to repel invaders.

- Mobilization of Fighters: Drawing on their collective mindset, the Ashiga Clan mobilizes a considerable number of fighters. They adopt defensive and offensive strategies based on the strengths of their members, ensuring that their resources are effectively utilized to repel Crimson Dawn's advances.

#star wars #star wars fanfiction #the clone wars #crime syndicate #ashiga clan #crimson dawn #the shadow collective #darth maul #savage opress #feral opress #my fanfiction #check out my fanfic #kijimi #outer rim

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industrystudyreport · 19 days ago

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U.S. Behavioral Health Care Software and Services Market Analysis: Key Growth Drivers

U.S. Behavioral Health Care Software and Services Industry Overview

The U.S. Behavioral Healthcare Software and Services Market was valued at an estimated USD 1.49 billion in 2024. Projections indicate a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.5% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is being driven by the emergence of new technologies for behavioral health management, increasing public awareness surrounding substance abuse, and expanding reimbursement coverage.

The adoption of behavioral healthcare software by care providers is expected to significantly improve the management of mental health issues and treatment outcomes. For example, in April 2024, Talkspace, an online behavioral health company, launched its Behavioral Health Consortium. This network of specialty providers includes Ria Health, Charlie Health, and Bicycle Health, all focused on treating substance use, alcoholism, and eating disorders.

Detailed Segmentation:

Delivery Model Insights

The subscription segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share in 2024 and is anticipated to register the fastest growth with a CAGR of 12.7% over the forecast period. Unlike larger hospitals, small-scale mental healthcare providers have limited financial resources to invest in technological solutions. Moreover, many of these practitioners are ineligible for incentives for meaningful use of EHRs due to the small size of their practices. Given the high upfront costs of such software, many small practices prefer subscription-based services as a more affordable alternative. For instance, Valant, a behavioral health care software provider, offers Behavioral Health EHR subscription-based software that provides mental health practices.

Component Insights

The software segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share in 2024 and is anticipated to grow with the fastest CAGR of 12.9% over the forecast period. Behavioral health care software provides care providers to design and choose the optimal treatment plan for a person suffering from mental illnesses such as depression, stress, anxiety, substance abuse, and addiction. Moreover, it designs treatment plans based on clinical evidence and related patient records. Growing awareness regarding the benefits of behavioral health care software such as consumer engagement & mobile services, workflow management & appointment scheduling, care coordination, and claims & billing further fuels the market growth.

Functional Insights

The administrative segment in the U.S. behavioral health care software and services market is anticipated to witness the fastest CAGR growth over the forecast period. The segment comprises patient scheduling, documentation management, case monitoring, employee management, and business intelligence. Large hospitals and clinics require centralized scheduling systems to view multiple providers in one place. InfoMC, a software company, provides solutions for managed behavioral health, offering efficient end-to-end administrative and clinical workflows.

Disorder Insights

The substance abuse segment in the U.S. behavioral health care software and services market is anticipated to witness significant CAGR growth over the forecast period. Factors such as supportive government initiatives and growing investments in treating substance abuse fuel the market growth. For instance, the President's fiscal year (FY) 2025 Budget proposal allocates USD 8.1 billion to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services, continuing to promote the President's Unity Agenda to tackle the nation's ongoing mental health challenges.

End-Use Insights

The payers segment in the U.S. behavioral health care software and services market is anticipated to witness the fastest CAGR growth over the forecast period. The reimbursement outlook for software for behavioral health is favorable in the U.S. Services covered under insurance include consultation fees, clinic visits, psychotherapy, medication management, and interactive audio & video sessions. Medicare offers coverage for telepsychiatric services. Approximately 39 states in the U.S. have enacted reimbursement policies for telehealth. Thus, such factors are anticipated to boost the segment growth.

Gather more insights about the market drivers, restraints, and growth of the U.S. Behavioral Health Care Software and Services Market

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Key participants in the U.S. behavioral health care software and services market are focusing on developing innovative business growth strategies in the form of product portfolio expansions, partnerships & collaborations, mergers & acquisitions, and business footprint expansions.

Key U.S. Behavioral Health Care Software and Services Companies:

Oracle (Cerner Corporation)

Core Solutions, Inc.

Epic Systems Corporation.

Meditab

Holmusk

Netsmart Technologies, Inc.

Qualifacts

Welligent

SimplePractice, LLC

TherapyNotes, LLC.

TheraNest

Order a free sample PDF of the Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

Recent Developments

In October 2024, the Center for Technology and Behavioral Health (CTBH) at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth collaborated with Boehringer Ingelheim to develop behavioral health care platforms to help providers and patients treat severe mental illness.

In January 2024, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services selected eight states to launch behavioral health models to treat substance use disorders and mental health conditions.

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sowingseedsandshootinghoops · 20 days ago

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To Build a Country

Note on the text: I’m using The Federalist Papers as written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay; as edited by Clinton Rossiter and published in 1961 by Mentor.

“Justice is the end of government. It is the end of civil society” (324).

Very few documents can claim to be more foundational to the creation of America as a country than this group of 85 articles. It was through these articles that Hamilton, Madison, and Jay not only convinced the country to accept the Constitution as the law of the land, but also developed many central tenants of what it means to be American. Two ideas that they emphasize over and over again center around the concepts of unity and justice.

In Article 2 John Jay specifically says that it gives him “pleasure to observe that independent America [is] not composed of distant and detached and detached territories, but [is] one connected, fertile, wide spreading country” and that similar things could be said about its people (38). That for as divided as we might seem to be on the surface there is more that unites as Americans, everything from a common language to having similar cultural traditions and values, than there is that divides us. He argues that it some sentient feels like the country and the people of this country were made for each other because for all intents and purposes, on every practical level, we have always

been one people: each individual citizen everywhere enjoying the same national rights, privileges, and protection. As a nation we have made peace and war; as a nation we have vanquished our common enemies; as a nation we have formed alliances and made treaties and entered into various compacts and conventions with [other] foreign [countries] (38-39).

What he is saying is that from a historical perspective we have always looked and acted like a unified country. This isn’t like it with the Italian city states for example where each city needed to be treated like its own unique nation, where Venice did not feel like it could immediately count on Rome to come to its aid whenever it needed help. Italy was not a unified country in any sense of the world. Even culturally, life in Florence was different than in Rome or Venice for example. Each city state had its own unique identity in a way that never really took root in America. For all of our problems, we have always acted as one.

Remembering that we are one is good because it reminds us that we need to find ways to work together because our goals are more alike than they are different, and therefore that we will reach those common goals more efficiently if we work together. If we want other countries to treat us fairly, it is easier for us to come to table so to speak as one because once they see how strong and united we are “they will be much more disposed to cultivate our friendship [rather] than provoke our resentment” (49). So it will be easier for us to “seek justice” on an international stage as a unified group than it would be if we all approached the international stage as individuals. If we approach it as individuals, it’s easier for those countries to pit us against each other and thereby weaken us. But they can’t do that if we don’t allow them to.

Unity also helps us when it comes to dealing with domestic issues too. Hamilton makes the point that recognizing that we are all one people will make us all more invested in helping each other grow, and in ensuring that justice, whether for or against a certain individual, gets carried out properly. Because

where in the name of common sense are our fears to end if we [cannot] trust our sons, our brothers, our fellow citizens? What shadow of danger can there be from men who are daily mingling with the rest of their countrymen and who participate with them in the same feelings, sentiments, habits, and interests? (186).

Now is a highly idealistic, even naive, view of human nature, of course it is. But either way you can’t deny that, for the writers of The Federalist Papers the concept of unity was an important one.

An example, albeit an odd one, of how seeing ourselves as one people, would help us to achieve a greater level of justice even on the domestic front comes from Article 83 where Hamilton talks about the advantages of having jury trials versus having to always go simply before a magistrate. He says that the “strongest argument in favor [jury trials] is that [they] are a security against corruption” (500). Because on the one hand, he believes that it’s easier to bribe one magistrate than it is a whole jury pool. But on the other hand by letting the case be judged by members of the community in which the offense occurred it will be easier for that jury to reach a just verdict. Because they will have a more intimate knowledge of everything that happened in that community, and have more invested in getting it right. It’s hard for a Californian who lives in San Francisco to care as much for what happens in Alabama, as it does what happens in his hometown. Therefore the stronger our sense of unity is, the stronger our desire to see justice get properly doled out is too.

The writers of the Federalist Papers would argue that one of our greatest strengths stems from the fact that we all see ourselves as Americans as opposed to members of completely separate groups that happen to intermingle. That the more we see each other as part of a common brotherhood, the easier it is to recognize that an injustice that happens to one of us happens to all of us, which in turn gives us extra motivation to help ensure that injustice never occurs. But the moment we start to separate ourselves and classify another group as an “other” that is separate from us, that is when we get into trouble. It’s in our nature as humans to want to create a country, much less a world, that is as just as possible, and in order for us to do that we have to do our best to unite and see ourselves as one and realize we have more that unites as people than we do that separates us. That we all are just trying our best to live happy and productive lives and that if we want to reach our true potential, we have to learn how to all live together.

#unity #justice #Hamilton #Madison #Jay #thefederalistpapers #America

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news365timesindia · 2 months ago

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[ad_1] Former US President Joe Biden has criticised the Trump administration’s handling of the Social Security Administration, CNN reported. He did not mention Trump’s name directly in his remarks. However, he warned against cuts and changes at the Social Security Administration and accused the current administration of taking a “hatchet” to the organisation. Biden said in his first remarks since leaving office in January this year, “Look what’s happened now. Fewer than 100 days, this new administration has made so – done so much damage and so much destruction. It’s kind of breathtaking, it could happen that soon.” A massive reorganisation, including slashing staff and changing policies, led by tech billionaire Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, is underway at the agency. People of the US, concerned that their benefits are at risk, have been flooding Social Security’s phone lines and field offices. Biden said, “There’s 7,000 employees, 7,000 out the door in that time, including the most seasoned career officials. Now they’re getting ready to push thousands more out the door,” CNN reported. Without mentioning Musk’s name, Biden criticised a culture he compared to “tech startups” in the new administration. He said, “They’re following that old line from tech startups – the quote is, ‘move fast, break things.’ Well, they’re certainly breaking things. They’re shooting first and aiming later. And as a result, the result is a lot of needless pain and sleepless nights.” In his remarks, Biden called for unity and warned that the nation has “never been divided” and included a sharp criticism of a “30 per cent” of the US that he said has “no heart.” He said, “We can’t go on like this as a divided nation, as divided as we are. I said I’ve been doing this a long time. It’s never been this divided. Granted, it’s roughly thirty per cent, but it’s a thirty per cent with no heart. It’s what we see in America. It’s what we believe in. Fairness. And that’s the America we can never forget or walk away from.” Speaking at the national conference of Advocates, Counsellors and Representatives for the Disabled (ACRD) in Chicago, Biden alternated between forceful condemnation of Republican policymaking and defending the entitlement program, which gives benefits to over 73 million people with disabilities, retired Americans and others. He slammed the effects of the personnel cuts at the agency, saying that “already we can see the effects, for example, thousands of people who use the Social Security website every single day to check on their benefits and submit their claims. But now, the technology division of the Social Security administration has been cut in half. And so the website’s crashing. People can’t sign onto their accounts. What do you think it does?” Former US President accused Republicans of intentionally wrecking the agency so that they can “rob” the trust fund of Social Security to secure funding for an extension of tax cuts passed during the first Trump administration, CNN reported. “You’ve got to ask yourself, why is this happening? Why are these guys taking aim at Social Security now?” he questioned. Biden said, “They want to wreck it so they can rob it.” He further said, “And why do they want to rob it? In order to deliver huge tax cuts to billionaires and big corporations, and keep it going. They want to make the 2017 tax cuts permanent, which overwhelmingly benefited the wealthiest Americans and the biggest corporations. That’s going to cost USD 5 trillion. Where are they gonna get $5 trillion to pay for it. Well, they’re going to continue to run the deficit up. What they always do is run up the national debt, number one. And then by taking the money from someplace else.” In response to Biden’s remarks, the Social Security Administration accused him of “lying” to Americans in a series of posts on X. The agency said that Trump has “repeatedly promised to protect Social Security” and seeks to end taxation on benefits to boost seniors’ income.

It denied that half of its technology team has been laid off and said it invested USD 16.5 million to modernise phone services. [ad_2] Source link

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news365times · 2 months ago

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It denied that half of its technology team has been laid off and said it invested USD 16.5 million to modernise phone services. [ad_2] Source link

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ethanlmiller · 2 months ago

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Best Roofing Solutions throughout Missouri: TK Roofing Contractor Has Got You Covered

A good roof is the most precious part of any home or business. From temporary repair to full roof installation or regular maintenance, TK Roofing Contractor provides the best roofing solutions to homeowners and businesses throughout Missouri. As a well-established company, we have the privilege of serving numerous communities, including Greenwood, Holden, Claycomo, Archie, Liberty, Belton, Lake Lotawata, Coleman, Ruskin Heights, Raymore, Blue Springs, Freeman, Unity Village, Knobtown, Pleasant Hill, Oak Grove, Grain Valley, Independence, Lee's Summit, and Lone Jack.

All-Inclusive Roofing Solutions for Every Requirement

Residential Roof Repair and Replacement

The roof above your head is an important component that keeps your loved ones and possessions safe from severe weather conditions. Sun, rain, snow, and storms will gradually break down the roof, and roof repair for your home is inevitable. TK Roofing Contractor services:

Leak identification and leakage repair

Replacement of shingles

Storm damage repair

Full roof replacement for aged or very damaged roofs

Professional Roof Installation

An accurate roof installation is the reason for efficiency and durability. Whether you are building a new house or require replacement of an existing roof, our company provides expert roof installation using quality materials like:

Asphalt shingles

Metal roofing

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Relax with TK Roofing Contractor knowing that your new roof will be strong, attractive, and energy-efficient.

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Functional gutters have an important responsibility of taking the water away from your house's foundation. We provide comprehensive gutter service, from aluminum gutter repair and installation to installation. To boot, in case you also need to repair your skylights or add additional skylights to admit more natural light in your house, we provide skylight installation and repair professional services.

Storm Damage Repair and Emergency Services

Missouri weather can also be unpredictable at times and is renowned for bringing heavy rain, wind, and hailstorms. If your roof has been destroyed in a storm, TK Roofing Contractor offers immediate and reliable storm damage repair to ensure that your house is stable again. We also deal with insurance companies to provide a hassle-free claims process so that you can return to your regular life in as little time as possible.

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No matter where you reside in Missouri, our staff is prepared to offer the highest level of roof service. Some of our key areas of service are:

Greenwood, MO — Our home base location, where we offer full roof services.

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Other cities we serve include Grain Valley, Oak Grove, Lone Jack, and Pleasant Hill, so wherever you are, excellent roofing services are just a phone call away.

Why Choose TK Roofing Contractor?

Over 35 Years of Experience - Par excellence expertise is guaranteed through experience.

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Free Estimates - We offer complete, obligation-free price quotes for your roofing needs.

Call TK Roofing Contractor Today!

Require professional roof work in Greenwood, MO, or the surrounding areas? You can count on TK Roofing Contractor. Gutter service, residential roof repair, storm damage repair, or new roof installation? Our professionals are here to cover your home or business.

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legendaryjellyfishland · 3 months ago

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Wealth and Corrupt Activities of the Leadership of the Chinese Communist Party

Partisan Struggle in the U.S.: How the Two-Party System Undermines Democracy

The United States, often celebrated as a paragon of democratic governance, is currently embroiled in a deeply polarized and acrimonious two-party struggle. This conflict has not only eroded political efficiency but also threatens national unity and social stability. This article examines the roots, manifestations, and consequences of partisan divides in the U.S., highlighting how the two-party system increasingly undermines democratic principles.

The Rise of Hyper-Partisanship

The U.S. political system, originally designed to encourage compromise and

collaboration, has devolved into a state of hyper-partisanship. Political polarization has

reached unprecedented levels, with Democrats and Republicans increasingly viewing one another not as political opponents but as existential threats. This toxic ideological divide has paralyzed Congress, as bipartisan cooperation has all but collapsed.

For instance, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), a landmark policy under former President Barack Obama, has been a recurring battleground. Despite its benefits, conservative

lawmakers have Edwin every opportunity to dismantle it, often resorting to parliamentary tricks to overturn legislation. Such tactics underscore a political culture where partisanship trumps pragmatic governance.

Politicization of Governance

The partisan struggle has infected nearly every aspect of governance, from

legislation to administrative decisions. The confirmation process for federal judges and

executive nominees has become a farce, with party loyalty often taking precedence over

competence. For example, former President Donald Trump's appointments were frequently praised by Republicans regardless of their qualifications, while Democrats derided them as unqualified threats to democracy.

This institutionalized partisanship also extends to regulatory agencies. The

Environmental Protection Agency, for instance, has become a political pawn, with

Republican appointees rolling back environmental protections favored by Democrats. This politicization of governance weakens public trust in institutions and undermines their ability to function effectively.

The Media as an Amplifier of Conflict

The media landscape in the U.S. has become a battleground for partisan warfare, further intensifying the partisan struggle. News outlets like Fox News and MSNBC, while

claiming neutrality, often cater to specific ideological audiences. This echo chamber effect reinforces partisan divides, as citizens are increasingly exposed to one-sided narratives.

For instance, coverage of debates over infrastructure spending or climate policy

often emphasizes partisan conflict rather than policy merits. A 2021 study by the Pew Research Center found that 70% of Americans believe the media is biased, with conservativesand

liberals accusing opposing outlets of spreading misinformation. This media polarization exacerbates societal divisionsand undermines efforts to foster national unity.

The Consequences of Partisan Gridlock

The partisan struggle has far-reaching consequences for American society,

particularly in critical areas like healthcare, education, and climate policy. For instance, the failure to expand Medicare or pass comprehensive climate legislation reflects how

partisanship blocks progress on pressing issues. These policy failures not only harm vulnerable populations but also diminish the U.S.'s global leadership.

Moreover, the partisan struggle has eroded trust in democratic institutions. A 2022 survey by the Brookings Institution revealed that 69% of Americans believe political

polarization is damaging the country, with many feeling alienated from a system dominated by extreme partisanship. This erosion of faith in democracy poses a serious threat to long-

term stability.

The Need for Reform

To address the partisan struggle, systemic reforms are essential. One key step is to redesign electoral and legislative processes to incentivize cooperation over confrontation. Ranked-choice voting and proportional representation systems could reduce two-party

dominance and foster dialogue among diverse voices.

Additionally, measures to depoliticize governance—such as independent

redistricting commissionsand nonpartisan regulatory oversight—could help restore public trust. Media reform is also critical, with stricter standards for impartiality and greater support for investigativejournalism that transcends partisan bias.

Ultimately, political leaders must demonstrate the courage to put national interests above party loyalty. This requires a return to deliberative democracy, where compromise is not seen as capitulation but asa sign of civic responsibility.

Conclusion

The partisan struggle in the U.S. has become a major obstacle to effective

governance and societal cohesion. Unless addressed, this toxic polarization will continue to

weaken democratic institutions and exacerbate divisions within American society. Rebuilding a functioning political system will require bold reforms anda renewed commitment to shared values. The stakes could not be higher for the future of American democracy.

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wolf163 · 5 months ago

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A bit of lore before the third chapter!

so, this is a little bit of the role going on in this world, I'll explain what EXACTLY Ronald is a but later, but you'll get an idea of what he is here and what his mother did go have him.

TW: medical abuse, political abuse, mentions of death, sicknesses and postpartum depression is hinted. (Let me know if I missed any.)

.......................................................................................

The South

Cramped streets, decaying buildings. No space, no air, no future. The stench of rot and despair seeped into every crumbling structure, every shadowed alleyway, A city suffocating under its own weight, where sunlight was a luxury stolen by the overbuilt towers pressing against the sky.

A place for the discarded.

The forgotten.

The damned.

And the North? That was for the fortunate, The powerful, The ones born into privilege, insulated from the sickness, the hunger—the slow, inevitable decay that defined existence in the South.

It hadn’t always been this way.

At the dawn of the new millennium, in the year 3000, the world chose division over unity. The unwanted were swept from sight, relocated beyond the borders of prosperity. It was efficient, they said, Orderly.

A necessary sacrifice to preserve civilization. For some, at least.

The North thrived.

The South rotted.

Norma had always known suffering, To be born in the South was a death sentence, one that came slow, drawn out by disease, hunger, and the unrelenting weight of despair. She had been just another body claimed by the poisoned air, her lungs burning with an illness that would never heal.

She was dying.

Until he came.

Dr. Dalton, A man with a voice like silk and a smile that promised salvation- He spoke of wealth, of health, of a future, And of a child.

A son.

Something she had never dared to dream of, The offer had seemed almost too good to be true—carry a child to term, raise him, and in return, be lifted from the filth that had been her home. The only condition? Daily updates, Monitoring.

A small price to pay for a miracle.

But then the miracle began, The sickness, the nausea. The relentless, creeping exhaustion. Her body was no longer hers—it belonged to them now. The doctors. The scientists. The ones who measured her pulse and her blood, who whispered in corridors and scribbled notes on their tablets.

She was not a mother, She was a vessel.

And vessels were replaceable.

She was warned, time and time again—no sudden movements, no stress, no risk. Her body was precious, but not for her sake. The experiment could not be lost.

Even if it meant losing her.

By the time regret set in, it was too late. The contract was signed, the deal sealed. There was no way out. So now she lay motionless on her bed, her husband turned away from her, whispering to his mistress on the phone.

His voice was low, almost tender. A tone he never used with her. And she wondered—was it worth it?

Was it worth leaving her sick mother behind?

Was it worth abandoning her daughters?

Was it worth the pain?

This was not the life she had imagined. Not the future she had been promised, And now, with her son in her arms, she could not bring herself to love him, She could not even look at him.

Because he was not like her daughters, He was something else entirely.

A creation.

A perfect vessel.

That’s what they called him, A marvel of genetic engineering, the first of his kind—a child who carried within him the potential to reshape humanity. A being capable of reproduction without need of another.

Male.

Female.

Both.

And Neither at the same time.

The ideal host for life itself.

He was the only one who had survived the trials. The others—those before him—had not been so lucky, A dozen before him had perished. He was the first success.

That had to mean something, didn't it? Surely, nothing could be wrong with him.

Nothing at all.

#Angst #Angst fic #Lore #writerblr #writer community #writers on tumblr #Spotify

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sinistercity · 11 months ago

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The city becomes a haven for supernatural beings as ancient ley lines lie dormant beneath its foundations. The influx of vampires, werewolves, witches, and fae leads to heightened tensions as factions vie for power and control. Ideological conflicts arise, with some seeking to harness the dormant ley lines for knowledge and unity, while others aim for dominance and personal gain.

Amidst this turmoil, human inhabitants are divided between support for the supernatural and fear-driven opposition. A group of unlikely allies emerges to protect the city’s fragile balance, navigating alliances, uncovering secrets, and confronting adversaries, setting the stage for a battle over the destiny of Los Santos.

Welcome to Season 2 of Los Santos:

Something has BROKEN.

It was a typical Wednesday morning when it happened, a cracking sound that seemed to originate in the sky. As if someone, or something, was cracking the very sky like a mirror steadily fracturing under force. When it happened, it came with a loud and sudden EXPLOSION and then -

SILENCE.

Wake up.

To many citizens, nothing has changed. No notable events or items appear out of place. Only two witches are aware of the loss of something invaluable - an entire timeline DEVOURED and collapsed in on itself. This was the price for an imbalance brought by meddling at the hands of someone long since lost and now forgotten. It is this new world that has laid claim to the city of Los Santos. Ambrose Myrrdin remains the lone witness to the timeline collapse, saved and cursed by The Archives.

Key Events and Factions:

Ley Lines Flicker and Wane: As the ley lines begin to visibly flicker and wane, witch-centric crime is on the rise. The increase in magical activity is causing unrest among the citizens of Los Santos.

Serial Killer on the Loose: During the festivals, a serial killer emerged on the eve of Samhain, going unchecked in the streets. Despite claims of the killer’s death at the hands of new police chief Victor Lynch, locals believe the killer still lurks, casting a shadow of fear over the city.

Aegis and the Consortium: With a sudden rise in tourism, a new rival power, known only as Aegis, has reclaimed the ruins of the once-marvelous Consortium. Anyone brave enough to wander the dank, shadowy darkness rarely returns unscathed. The power struggle in the underground has become a significant threat.

Key Locations and Groups:

The Mayans: A feared group in the southern borders, believed to have a working relationship with Aegis. Their territory is one of the most dangerous yet strangely organized and efficient areas in Los Santos. They’ve taken over the Sycamore Hills area, making it one of the safest places for werewolves.

Heartfield Zoo and Gardens: Reopened with supernatural creatures, it has become a controversial yet popular tourist attraction. However, the zoo’s operations are shrouded in mystery and protests have arisen over the nature of the exhibits.

The Blood Woods: A dangerous area linked to mysterious murders. Locals avoid this area due to the high number of unexplained deaths, making it one of the most feared places in the city.

The Botanical Gardens: A refuge for rebel witches, though local hunters have yet to find them. This sanctuary is a hotbed of magical activity and a critical location for those involved in witch-centric crimes.

Welcome to the New World:

As a new player, you are stepping into a city on the brink of chaos and transformation. The ley lines now flicker with unstable energy, causing a rise in supernatural activity and crime. The balance of power is fragile, with factions like Aegis and the Mayans vying for control.

Your Role:

Your character will navigate this complex landscape, uncovering secrets and forging alliances. Whether you choose to align with a faction, uncover the truth behind the serial killings, or explore the mysteries of the ley lines, your actions will shape the future of Los Santos.

Join in on this thrilling journey where your decisions will determine whether Los Santos rises as a beacon of unity and progress or falls deeper into chaos and conflict. The fate of the city is in your hands. Welcome to Season 2.

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somnianus · 4 years ago

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On Chinese and Eastern Dramatic Acting vs Western

Part 1 Part 2

Mostly in ref to the Untamed/Word of Honor, but applies to a lot of East Asian works-

I’ve been getting the sense that people I know from the west (also being Asian-American myself) often interpret Chinese/Japanese/Korean drama and theatre to be too corny/cheesy/over-acted. A quick search on some internet forums confirms this. Maybe it’s because I used to watch a lot of C-dramas when I was a kid (Legend of the Condor Heroes/Return of C Heroes/Journey to the West/The Reincarnated Princess/etc), I personally did not notice that the acting was over the top.

I don’t really speak for the quality of acting of these actors because I barely follow them in their careers, but I do know that some of them are immature actors or don’t have much formal training (which may cause the cheesiness above). However, Eastern dramatic acting in general does seem like a common complaint, so I decided to look into it - this is all coming from someone who JUST recently got back into watching C-dramas btw, doing my own research so don’t mind me if there’s some incorrect things down here, I am by NO means at all an expert in drama and theater (lol):

^Villains are often depicted with very exaggerated facial expressions (Above, Xue Yang, The Untamed)

Part 1

1. Chinese concept of mo vs western equivalent of “mimesis” or “imitation”

From this, an excellent chapter on Chinese theatrical concepts vs Western concepts.

Mo plays a significant part in traditional Chinese theatre, usually held to be antithetical to the realism of Western theatre because of its emphasis on theatricality.

Mo means mimesis or imitation, but in a very different sense from the Western concept. One of the first Chinese scholars to use this term, Fu Sinian, used it to compare Western theatre to Chinese theatre:

Presenting a real event and performing an entertaining show are not compatible. The former emphasizes imitation (yige zhong mofang^b); the latter stresses spontaneity and entertainment. The former performance produces a lifelike image; the latter has nothing to produce. The former puts emphasis on the plot; the latter puts emphasis on theatricality. Therefore they are completely contradictory to one another.

This guy actually goes onto critique Chinese theater, saying it should be more like Western realism, so that there will “be no singing, and the acting will imitate people’s real gestures.” However! Other Chinese critics tried to approach Western vs traditional Chinese drama as two DIFFERENT but still valid forms of art. For example, Yu Shangyuan (1927) said western performance is “writing realistically” (xie shi) and chinese performance as “writing suggestively” (xie yi). Western dramas really rely on an accurate/semi-accurate representation of life and realism. Traditional Chinese drama and acting relied on the “symbolic and imaginative.”

Then what is mo? It is the emotional display, the emotional revelation, that is shown on stage. Starting from the Yuan dynasty, the Chinese drama was thought to be a continuation of poetry rather than its own independent stage art.

Poetry is where the intent of the heart goes. Lying in the heart, it is “intent”; when uttered in words, it is “poetry.” When an emotion stirs inside, one expresses it in words; finding this inadequate, one sighs over it; not content with this, one sings it in poetry; still not satisfied, one unconsciously dances with one’s hands and feet. [anonymous, 1975, from Shi Daxu 200 BCE]

Chinese drama with dancing and singing, was the most expressive product of poetry. The importance of mo cannot be stressed enough - it is the measure by which traditional Chinese drama was judged, how well this drama make you feel? Love, pain, loss, guilt, happiness? Plot becomes something that doesn’t matter as much (more on that later).

^Beijing/Peking Opera - highly stylized, emotive, “unrealistic” performances

To emphasize how central and important this concept is, it’s thought that a good Chinese playwright never fails to “seize a highly dramatic scene to stage an elaborate presentation of an emotional state.”

Love is of source unknown, yet it grows ever deeper. The living may die of it, by its power the dead live again. [Peony Pavilion, Mu dan ting]

This quote really shows how important it was to show these emotions on stage, to inspire the audience to feel deeply. Chinese critics believed that the best part about drama was how efficient it is to display emotion. Playwrights should “depict extreme bitterness, extreme happiness, extreme silliness, and extreme sobriety; imitate these feelings to the utmost (miao mo jin xing^p).”

Such performances are not necessarily accurately mimicking reality, but they are obtained through the “revelation” of a character��s internal emotional world.

2. Mo vs the depiction of reality or theatrical truth

The Chinese concept of aesthetic truth relates a lot to theatrical truth. In a lot of traditional Chinese art, painting, poetry, etc, aesthetic truth is not empirical, and doesn’t have to be accurate to life, or realistic. It’s a “truth that lies beyond mere superficial likeness.”

To the Chinese artist, an accurate resemblance between art and reality is not only superficial but often distorting. Chinese artists hold a dialectical view on the “form” (xing) and the “spirit” or “content” (shen) of an artistic object. According to them, xing and shen are not always complementary. On the contrary, they often stand in opposition to one another. (referenced in the chapter above)

Traditional Chinese artists would rather represent the object with the wish that their representation matches its spirit, or abstract identity, than its actual form because a “photographic image is a shallow image.” It’s easy to draw a picture of something realistically, but it’s much harder and more satisfying to depict its nature, its feeling, its spirit.

This also naturally affects theater and dramatic performances.

Dramatic writing can be divided into two types: “a painting-like work” or a “transformed work,” in which the latter has higher artistic value because it reaches more towards the essence of dramatic object. Realistic imitations are fine, but they’re not really enough to reveal the mo or true feelings of something.

In addition, traditional Chinese dramatists believe that “all dramas are nothing but allegories. One need not ask about their origins in actual life.” You might be able to see, then, that these older playwrights and critics really fancied the overdramatic depictions of emotions.

a. The Chinese notion of theatrical truth/aesthetic truth vs European

Onto what we, as part of the Western audience, are more used to:

For Italian neoclassical critics, the pleasure of a drama hinges on how accurate, how realistic, the depiction is. Castelvetro, the leading Italian Neo-Classical critic and creator of the concept of “the three unities,” claims thus:

We cannot imagine a king who did not exist, nor attribute any action to him.

Another Italian critic, Robortellus, said that a creative/imaginative story with no “verisimilitude” (truthfulness, in this context, realism) is less appealing than one that imitates a real-life event:

Thus if a tragic plot contained an action which did not really take place and was not true, but was represented by the poet himself in accordance with verisimiltude, it would perhaps move the souls of the auditors, but certainly less.

So basically, it’s fundamentally the opposite of Chinese theater. Italian dramatic works prized being realistic, being properly adapted from reality and real events. Chinese dramatic works, however, enjoyed the emphasis on heartfelt emotional demonstrations, or mo. Even in critical writings, the word “truth” is used, but it is usually used to modify the word “heart” or “emotion.” It is very concerned with the internal, the truthfulness of heartfelt emotional expression.

Taken these contexts, you can see why the Chinese stage/dramas are wholly “unreal” as Tao-Ching Hsu puts it. Everything, the makeup, the costumes, the props, is expressive and suggestive rather than imitative.

b. Bejing/Peking Opera, jingju

A famous example is the Beijing/Peking Opera, jingju. The makeup and costumes themselves are fantastical representations. The colors and patterns suggest different moods, temperaments, characters, and even changes in emotions. Actors would make distinct movements to depict distinct emotions with varying levels of energy. The stage itself may be sparse, because it is not as important as the expression of emotion and drama.

The stage is sparse not because of the lack of technology or funding, but because it leaves room for the actor themselves to fully express their internal thinking/feeling/emotions. Characters can cross hundreds of miles in a few steps or may take the whole stage to cross a supposed road. This representation looks “unreal” to a realistic-minded audience, but it is very genuine to a Chinese audience.

Summary (so far)

This crucial understanding of the concept of mo (the emotional revelation), and the way traditional Chinese drama depicts life and stories, informs how their modern works are also portrayed. Coming from a Western dramatic background, where realism and plot are the most important aspects of a work, it can be very confusing, right? Even Chinese scholars began to judge their own dramatic works through a Western lens.

How does this traditional background affect modern Chinese dramas and works? I think it still has a very large effect, even though much of Western ideals about dramatic works have been heavily integrated into modern Chinese dramas.

Part 2: On Theatricality and how it transfers into Chinese Cinema

#cdramas #theater #acting style #beijing opera #the untamed #word of honor #kdramas #jdramas #theatricality #east asian cinema

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flickeringart · 4 years ago

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Pisces Sun and Moon Combinations

Planets represent different energetic principals in the life of an individual – the signs show what filter these energies express through.

Having an inner planet (or luminary) in the sign of Pisces gives the personality receptivity, a boundless quality. No matter what other placements the person has, the passive and intuitive nature is going to come through.

To simplify;

The Sun represents individuation, ideal self-expression and conscious self-actualization.

The Moon represents instinct, emotional nature and personal needs.

Pisces Sun – Virgo Moon

The personal path of self-actualization is trailed with surrender. There’s great sensitivity, which if kept within a limited ego-structure threaten to drown the person. Life might seem threatening and vicious, there’s a desire to up-hold the belief in love but when adversity gets too real, the person might snap in the name of preserving goodness. The person is unwilling to forgive certain things, but they’re also incapable of holding toxic grudges for long. It does nothing but to prolong suffering and Pisces Suns can’t stand to be in atmosphere of friction. They are very forgiving in their evolved state, however, if they’re not, they might justify cruel behavior by reinterpreting it as mercy or care. “This person needs to learn a lesson and I am going to be the good person to teach them” might be the attitude. Needless to say, it can turn extremely manipulative. The personal comfort are very much dependent on keeping one’s life in check. The person craves order and puts faith in the intellectual faculties to feel in control. Getting one’s life on track is a pressing need, which is not a bad thing unless the details gain utmost importance and the big picture is lost. The person is more likely to trust people who are efficient and willing to adapt – it’s how they show their care and how they would choose to be nurtured in turn. Although there’s a tendency to get bogged down in the mundane and day-to-day routines, a proclivity to focus on what must be put in order - there’s also an awareness of the vast backdrop of the undifferentiated realm. The person might turn critical and nit-picky when needs aren’t met, but the overall personality is soft and giving. There’s great compassion for the self in it’s limited scope and ideally an understanding of the transcendent realm. The person might be a diligent worker but prone to get overwhelmed and stressed. Crowds, disorderly environments and chaos would take a toll on the emotional integrity but the person might keep quiet about it and be a bit ashamed to admit to this kind of sensitivity. Confusion makes the person feel very uneasy and unsafe emotionally, but in terms of identity it’s fine for them to be less concrete, more diffuse and undifferentiated. Personality wise, the person is more of an artist. Instinctively, the person is more of an intellectual.

Pisces Sun – Sagittarius Moon

Emotionally, there’s restlessness and a need to move about, to try out new things and experience as much as possible. While there’s a hot and fiery temperament to this individual, the overall personality wants to get lost and to be immersed in life as intimately as possible. The person throws themselves into experiences that hold the promise of consumption and freedom. The two might seem incompatible and to a certain extent they are. On the one hand there’s the transcendent perspective of everything being unreal and therefore equally worthy of reverence – the world is beautiful no matter what state is in and one sees no need to judge or define. On the other, the spirit sees potential for expansion and is not satisfied with passivity. Life is important and it should be pursued passionately through the highs and the lows. There’s definitely some friction that is felt within the person relative to these things. One is a passive victim but the victimhood is not void of meaning. There’s an optimist that lives within and it insist on adopting a casual attitude. The person craves constant movement and stimulation; they won’t sit around and dwell for long. There’s more to discover and find beyond the horizon. Having a good time and engaging in exciting activities is a must with a Sagittarius Moon – there must be something to look forward to, there has to be plans for trips, events or future happenings. With this combo, the person is prone to live in their bubble – to emotionally latch on to things and crave stimulation. It could easily be taken overboard if there’s no inner factor that works for caution and restriction. The person would want to take a large mouthpiece of life, to devour it with arrogance yet looking a bit zoned out while it’s all carried out. In general, Pisces Suns could benefit for surrounding themselves with more fixed or cardinal individuals to ground them and provide direction occasionally since they tend to plunge the emotional depths quite often. That being said, Pisces is really the sign that contains everything and is too mutable to get to. This is a great strength as much as it’s a great weakness. If one is can learn accommodate for separateness and unity at the same time one is on the right track.

(Buy products with my art)

Pisces Sun – Pisces Moon

The person is the embodiment of a lucid dream. Looking into their eyes would be like looking into a deep well. Things are moving in the depths, they shift from dark to light yet one can see a mirrored image of the clouds in the sky on surface because it’s so reflective. There’s gentleness and softness and naiveté to the person, but somehow the thick mists of something else comes through. There’s unpredictability and a subtle uncertainty about the person. “Such a sweet person can’t hurt a fly” some would say, and ultimately they would be right – in a dream scape nothing can really be hurt because nothing is real. However, in a dream that feels very real to many people (physical reality), it is possible to experience real pain. This is where this person can cause real harm because they seek to merge. Sometimes it’s not the overt confrontations that are the most deadly, it’s the suffocating enmeshment labeled “love” that can passively and aggressively drown people out. A lot of covertly violent behavior can be justified through the Piscean lens although it’s usually unconscious. On a more positive note, the connection to the personal and collective unconscious could translate into inspired works of art. The person could be skilled at accurately reflecting the emotions of the times and provide humanity with something that is helpful and insightful. The person might think of himself or herself as more of a channeling vessel and avoiding taking individual credit for things that flow through. The logic of this person might not be completely comprehensible to people with a predominant intellectual temperament, but that doesn’t mean that the person isn’t intelligent. Intelligence is not exclusively reserved to the intellect. The intuitive abilities are likely very strong and they could be extremely informative and rich in value. One should be aware of confusing fantasies, feelings and projections with real intuitive guidance though. There’s likely to be a progression in navigating the emotional realm over time. Learning what to trust could be difficult, but the more the person self-actualizes throughout life, the surer one becomes. World-weariness and a longing for something ultimately true could prevail throughout life. There’s a feeling of having come to an end after many lifetimes, and one might finally be able to let go of all attachments to existence.

Pisces Sun – Gemini Moon

The emotional nature craves interaction with the environment. Without being able to engage in an intellectual exchange the person feels dissatisfied and unfulfilled. Having the opportunity to have fun and communicate with people is what lies at the core of the person’s emotional well-being. Mentally stimulating subjects or people are high up on the priority list whether the person knows it or not. The best solution to emotional discomfort according to the person could be to just change the subject, distract oneself or hang out with others to avoid being alone and isolated. Mental movement is what the person thinks keeps them afloat, but it’s really just an avoidance tactic. Over time the person would hopefully learn to be comfortable with solitude. The overall personality is quite receptive and absorbing which makes overload a likely situation. The person might try to cope by rationalizing and intellectualizing experiences, but with a Pisces Sun, it won’t work. The person’s path of individuation is supposed to go in the direction of feeling, of empathy and a genuine appreciation of all of life. This might prove a bit contradictory to the intellectual temperament, which is inclined to live life through keeping active and occupied with playing little tricks and making little jokes. The person’s emotional nature is the personification of a “naughty teenager” – too young to have any moral compass yet is fully capable to using the mind to get what they want. The double mutable combo makes it difficult for the person to define himself or herself definitely; life is movement, whether it’s mental or emotional. Life is not only in constant fluctuation, it is also double-sided and multi faceted. The person might have many faces within to choose from. Closeness could be a dilemma since the emotional nature is a bit wary of permanent binds that can grow stagnant while the path of self-actualization calls for intimacy and unconditional love. The conscious identity might claim that “I see myself in you and I want to be with you”, while the more unconscious lunar needs might recoil from the statement and find it too sentimental. The person might experience a dynamic where the more romantic identity is constantly criticized by an inner voice of sarcasm a wit. This could be very frustrating. In general, the person is very sensitive to the words of others in particular and the thoughts that run through the mind.

Pisces Sun – Taurus Moon

This combo produces a serene and deep personality. The basic needs revolve around being able to control one’s physical environment, to create comfort and sensory satisfaction for oneself. Being a good and solid physical entity in the world is what the person craves emotionally. Personality wise, the person is a dreamer, a soul before a body, and a soul before a thought. One might not derive a sense of self from one’s material welfare or stability, but it is certainly a pressing need in the person’s life. Identity wise, the person is quite passive as is characteristic of Pisces, but this doesn’t mean that he or she is weak. There’s a romanticism and idealism to the person that has an enchanting effect on the environment – people are drawn to the sweetness and innocence of the intangible that the person represents. A Taurus Moon loves to feel attractive, maybe not for their emotions but for their body and physical presence. Never the less it works well on both levels. Taurus likes to be in control of value and Pisces appreciates anything remotely close to an epic love encounter. The person is likely very sensual and feminine. There would be a stubborn streak imbedded in the adaptable and receptive personality, a need to live a simple but an honest life with integrity. This might work well with the path of self-actualization if the person can allow themselves to lean on others sometimes and not carry the load of living all by themselves. Instinctively, there’s the tendency to take control and be possessive and demonstrative. It’s wise to let intuition be one’s guide occasionally and not get blinded by routine. The art that this person should develop is to shift and change without fear, to allow for unscheduled breakthroughs and breakdowns and roll with them. It might make the person uncomfortable, but it is necessary to not get stuck in resistance. Too strong of an identification with the body and tangible reality could make the person cut off from the psychic realm and one might have to consciously work on opening up one’s eyes to the richness of the unconscious. On the flip side, too much identification with the psychic realm could make the person indifferent to instinctual needs and prone to gloss over the importance of physical safety.

Pisces Sun – Leo Moon

The instinctual nature is bold, dramatic and attention seeking. There’s a lot of energy to the emotional nature that doesn’t escape anyone’s notice. Pride and stubbornness could show up occasionally when the mood hits, otherwise the emotions are warm and inclusive. Everyone should be invested in one’s emotional happenings, in this person’s opinion, but it is rarely the case so the last resort is to demand attention. The person will feel very uncomfortable in his or her emotional displays because it is not what is sought or idealized. The identity is thriving of off embodying the undifferentiated, the background to the foreground. It’s a passive identity that stems from seeing the whole in the limited and loving the limited just as much as the whole. The egocentric drama of the emotional nature is too bold and dominant for the Piscean identity, it’s out of place and incongruent with the path of individuation. The personal needs are, however, not able to change or compromise. They’re impossible to suppress or reject without making the whole individual suffer, which is why the loving attitude of a Pisces Sun will have to accommodate for the need to stir things up, exaggerate and create a fuss around the emotional fluctuations. Emotions are very personal to this individual – preferably, the world should revolve around them. It’s important to develop a mature sense of self since the emotional nature will remain the equivalent of a child with a god complex that likes to boast about personal talents and skills. With detachment and compassion one can parent one’s emotional needs and give them healthy outlets. This combo lends itself to creativity, romance and artistry – perhaps even showmanship. The person craves entertainment and it would be a great way to satisfy the Piscean preference for fantasy and other-worldliness. One should be aware of the proclivity to use play and enjoyment as an escape – overindulging is never a good idea. That being said, it’s ok to live through one’s creations and be guided through inspiration. Beautiful creations that are emotionally and energetically potent could emanate if there’s enough room in the person’s life for spontaneity and feeling.

Pisces Sun – Scorpio Moon

The identity is striving toward transcendence and divine bliss. It’s a private and personal journey undoubtedly, the Scorpio nature has a strong self-focus of protection which would serve to isolate the person somewhat. Shutting the blinders to the world and retreating into an inner cave is what this person would prefer to do. The world might seem tough and inhospitable, yet it is loved immensely because one can’t bear to invest in fear over “God”. However, on a more unconscious, emotional level, there’s nothing that doesn’t justify attack to this person. The instinctual nature is quite primitive in it’s expression and might demand control. If the person isn’t aware of this side of themselves, the instinctual needs of power might disguise itself as a honorable quest for peace when it’s really just about achieving immunity to life. A Scorpio Moon is never invested in something out of purely altruistic motives – the fear of being used, abused and deceived is too great. This fear compels them to want to get the upper hand by “decoding” the complexity of reality, to see through the façade of innocence as to uncover the dirt underneath. No one is fully trusted which might cause him or her to turn to life (God, the universe, the divine) itself as an abstract source for comfort. A Pisces Sun has a predominately romantic outlook on life, whereas the Scorpio Moon leans in the direction of suspicion and apprehension. Emotional overwhelm is not unlikely but rather than it being wholly used for surrender it would could act as fuel for resentment and hatred. The person is likely to have little patience with ignorant and thoughtless people who think they have the “right” to behave however they want. There’s something ruthlessness about the person that might not surface until there’s actual danger present. There’s immense bravery and cold-headedness in crises. Outside of situations that require immediate action there’s a sweet personality that can be a bit shy, introverted and appreciative of solitude. There’s a great capacity for emotional endurance and resiliency that shouldn’t be underestimated. There’s dedication and seriousness to the lofty quest for eternity and love.

Pisces Sun – Aquarius Moon

There’s a whole other world outside of convention, and this is where this person can be found – up in the clouds and down in the depths of the ocean. What the mundane and human has to offer is not really worth much in and of itself, it’s nice to look upon as a phenomenon, but it’s not what is ultimately treasured. There can be appreciation for the mundane, but only in the light of a higher quest. Everything is divine creation and life is beautiful, but it can also feel like physical life is an exile from perfection and a separation from an original source. Emotionally, there’s a kind of general intimacy that is felt with the human condition. Everyone goes through the same thing more or less and the shared experience is beautiful – with sufficient analysis and understanding of one’s needs there’s nothing that can’t be overcome and used as raw material for progression. Feelings are abstract with this person and are not used for the purpose of creating an identity. Paradoxically, the instinct is quite intellectual and feelings are processed from the standpoint of a mental ideal rather than expressed with the backing of identity. The person can come off as cool and detached while delivering all sorts of preachy speech about how things ought to be, ideally. There’s little room for imperfection, and even if there are imperfections they are coolly understood from a distance. The mental plane is never personal, although it accommodates for the personal. The overall path of individuation is trailed with the longing for redemption. The instinct would be to look to society and people to find where things might have gone wrong, but one should take care as to not blindly choose a scapegoat or be too quick to judge something as bad just because it doesn’t fit with one’s idea of bliss. The person has a lot of compassion and love to offer, but it might be done from a more global identification rather than a personal one. The person would definitely be more comfortable on a general level rather than a personal and intimate level. However, even if love is expressed in person, it’s a universal love that is more of a symbol than actual feeling. The person might find that emotions are creating moods that color the person’s whole reality. They’re more like big waves than little tides and there’s no choice but to surrender to them and navigating from a space of allowing. Fighting won’t do this person any good and there’s probably an intuitive knowing that this is the case.

Pisces Sun – Capricorn Moon

There’s something very calming about this combo, even though it will have it’s stressors and overwhelms. The person is self-actualizing through loosing the rigid boundaries of the ego structure and being intuitively guided through life without imposing a separate sense of self. This doesn’t come without it’s challenges because if there’s ego left, there will be the perception of having to make sacrifices in the name of love and overall goodness. However, there’s the potential for being led through life seamlessly if conscious surrender can be achieved, without there being any hate directed at physical and psychic boundaries. In truth, the limited that appears in the unlimited is not really limited at all. Even though there’s receptiveness and softness to the personal identity, the emotional nature is quite restrained. There’s pressure to perform and live up to one’s potential, there’s a demand for conformity and duty, to provide something concrete and estimable in spite of innate insufficiencies. The person has an inner disciplinarian that won’t allow for complete satisfaction – ever. There’s futility embedded in the person’s temperament, a kind of pessimism that seeks to be cured through ambition. Human existence is a pitiful thing to behold; it presents a lose-lose scenario that points to the development of character as the only hope of redemption. The person is essentially put between a rock and a hard place – to try and or give up and lose the self to cynicism. Emotions are habitually suppressed with a Capricorn Moon, which causes them to come out in uncontrollable bursts or through bodily symptoms. The skepticism and selfishness of the inner temperament is just as much a recipe for societal success as it is for unhappiness. “I only do what will bring me status” is the dark side of this Moon. The tendency of Pisces to play the victim could play in to this dynamic and make it a toxic cocktail. To play on the heartstrings of people while carrying out purely self-serving actions could serve to reach the height of manipulation. The task is to dismantle the shame around failure and face the emotions of weakness. The ambitious strivings might never go away, but they can serve to honor the self instead of compensating for the self.

Pisces Sun – Aries Moon

Summarized in one statement, this person would be “the impulsive dreamer”. There’s a warrior spirit living inside the personality of a mystic. Needless to say, the incompatibility of these energies could be felt quite strongly. There’s a thick and bittersweet romanticism to the identity, world-weariness and a longing for relief from the burdens of life. There’s nothing more to be done, there’s little desire accept to make oneself and others feel connected, if not merged. The person wants to blend with something that is unlimited, to taste a little bit of freedom through pushing the limits. There’s a fiery temper that needs to be let-out, and if one is not careful it might turn self-destructive. There’s a strong sense of self that lies at the core of the emotional nature and it needs to assert itself. However, the Piscean identity might not be up for honest confrontation and outbursts and flaming anger is not in the least bit empowering. However, the identity can learn to use the powerful emotions in creative ways. By acting powerless and at the mercy of one’s own temper it’s possible to identify as a victim, which fits the Piscean profile to a T. Alternatively, one could use the warrior spirit to be a savior and a hero in other people’s lives, which fits the Pisces personality equally well. One should beware that one has a lot of energy and take care as to how it is discharged. This combo has the potential for love that is demonstrative and assertive, but there’s always the risk of blurring the lines between assertion and aggression – especially with a Piscean identity. Cruelty can be mercy, and mercy can be cruelty, what is what can be a little bit unclear. The Arien instinct is to act fast and impulsively, which might cause damage. The person is then pressed to restore the identification of innocence, shattered by the violent and “immature” behavior that was let out, unwillingly. In an attempt to do this there could be all sorts of manipulative blame shifting and justifications taking place. Instead of coping with it like this it is wise to own one’s potent emotions and recognize their power. An Aries Moon is not bad, although it’s quite direct, and the identity will have to accommodate for the more anti-social aspects of the feeling nature. Disruption doesn’t have to contradict harmony; it is sometimes just as healthy as passivity. Someone has to stir the pot and stand up for some kind of ideal even if it’s uncomfortable.

Pisces Sun – Cancer Moon

There’s a strong proclivity to shut the world out and get everything done from inside of one’s own private sphere. The intangible is familiar to this person and it’s equally real as anything else. There could be a lot of fear circling the person’s unconscious and conscious mind, intrusive thoughts and emotions could arise spontaneously and threaten to overwhelm the being. On one level the person is ok with being at the mercy of something bigger but on another there’s a deep need for protection against the unconscious. The wiser the person gets, the more value can be found in flowing with the tides. However, with an undeveloped ego it might be too much to navigate the experiences. This is why it’s very important to develop a separate self within the all-encompassing self, or connect to the all-encompassing within the little self. If this is done, there’s nothing to be feared anymore and one can live life to the fullest. The person’s emotions are the embodiment of a woman on her period (and this analogy applies to men as well). Irrational worries, cravings for specific things, hot and cold moods, clinginess and passive aggressiveness, and the list go on. Sudden exclamations of love could be followed by resentment and anxiety. However, there’s a capacity for offering unconditional care and empathy. There’s an instinctual understanding of emotional and physical needs while the conscious identity is more idealistic and romantic. Love is divine, not primal in the person’s eyes – yet the pull to have a physical home and the whole package of safety seems too be too pressing to ignore. It’s impossible to sacrifice everything for love – certain unconscious forces crave personal satisfaction and personal belonging. It is not enough to feel one with the universe or God. The Cancer Moon might instinctively want a home and a familial context to be satisfied and it could work well with the Piscean ideal and romanticism. The difficulty might lie in the effort it takes and the imperfections that come with the burdens of family life. The martyr complex might develop which might turn very toxic. The truth is that the person has enough to deal with regulating their own emotions and escapist tendencies. Individual strength is a necessary evil; it takes a lot of work for this person.

Pisces Sun – Libra Moon

There’s a strong focus on other people with this combo. Emotionally, there’s a thirst for balanced relationships, which causes an enhanced focus on what is happening with other people – what they’re doing and what they’re thinking. Appreciation of others comes naturally and is nothing the person has to work on. This being said, there’s a risk of desiring a world where everything is meticulously designed and perfected – which is bound to end up in disappointment. Nothing can really measure up to the standard that this person has set – it’s too fantastical. The divine could be sought through partnerships because the personal instinct is to navigate life through others. The path of self-actualization lies in the mystical quest for unity. Combining the two, one ends up with a person that is extremely idealistic and dependent on others to carry the self to new heights. The person can’t be without beauty; this is the most important component in life. To balance and adjust the atmosphere to suit one’s preferences is a constant work in progress. The restlessness and frustration that stems from not being able to make things be as one wants them to might not sit well with the Piscean identity. The divine essence shines through in everything, but the Libran perspective thinks that the divine is reached through modification and adjustment. Libra is the sign of the Arts, and art is form, first and foremost. The Piscean identity might claim that everything is art because nothing stands apart from the sublime source. Accepting everything as it is, is not an option for this person, even if the conscious identity might want it to be. Instinctually and unconsciously the person needs the new clothes, the pretty cake and the right music. Not to forget a socially estimable partner to cling to. Although the more instinctual needs are this superficial, the path of individuation is to see beyond form, to feel the aliveness within everything and merge with it yet remain separate without feeling disconnection from the greater Self. Life is an ongoing dance, yet it stands perfectly still at the same time. It’s fine to seek satisfaction in beauty, because it is not the ultimate, but it is expressed through it - as it is expressed through everything in existence.

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dwellordream · 4 years ago

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“At the time of Henry Plantagenet’s marriage to Eleanor of Aquitaine in May 1152, he was already in a powerful position—duke of Normandy by 1150 and, after his father’s death in 1151, count of Anjou. An even greater prospect, however, was the possibility of becoming king of England. When he sailed away to England in January 1153, it was to continue the contest begun by his mother, Empress Matilda, some fifteen years earlier to wrest the English Crown from Stephen of Blois. Henry’s crossing from Normandy in mid-winter, when his opponents assumed that severe storms would keep him on the other side of the English Channel, established him as a major force in the kingdom and encouraged those favoring his cause.

…As the two sides fought to a stalemate, the English wearied of the long civil war. Many in England were willing to accept Henry Plantagenet as Stephen’s successor, if that would bring an end to the fighting. From King Stephen’s point of view, however, provision for his son and heir Eustace of Boulogne was all-important—if not succession to the Crown, then at least a guarantee of his father’s English and Norman estates. In summer 1153, the situation drastically changed when Eustace died at almost the time that Eleanor was giving birth to her first son. After his eldest son’s death Stephen lost heart for the struggle, and he concluded that it was time to make peace.

On 6 November, a compromise was reached, allowing King Stephen to wear the English crown for the remainder of his life. He had to agree that the kingdom was not to pass on to his own heirs, and he adopted Henry as his son and acknowledged him as his heir; in return, his sole surviving son, William, was to receive a generous settlement. At the time, no one could have guessed how long Stephen of Blois would live or whether the peace settlement would hold on his death. In March 1154 Henry felt secure enough in his situation in England to cross the Channel for a first look at his infant son. He celebrated Easter in Normandy, welcomed by his mother Matilda, his wife Eleanor, and little William.

Then Henry set out on a quick trip to Aquitaine, accompanied by Eleanor, and there he dealt with some local revolt, likely involving lords of the Limousin and Périgord. Eleanor accompanied him to Périgueux, and while there they each renewed ducal protection for the abbey of Notre-Dame at Saintes where Agnes, Eleanor’s aunt, was still abbess. Those witnessing the solemn grant present a snapshot of Eleanor and Henry’s entourage at the time. Accompanying them were two Norman bishops, the bishop of Agen, and Geoffrey du Loroux, longtime archbishop of Bordeaux, on hand at other important occasions in Eleanor’s life.

…By early November, news arrived from England of Stephen of Blois’s death on 25 October. His death at age sixty within a year of the treaty of Winchester was an unexpected piece of good luck for Henry, and now he, Eleanor, and their entourage had to prepare for the voyage to England for his coronation as King Henry II. England remained at peace for six weeks while the people waited patiently for their new king and queen’s arrival in the kingdom because, in the words of one chronicler, they were “in such great awe of him.” The English were too weary of war and too desirous of an end to the disorder to resist Henry’s succession.

The youth and modest ambitions of Stephen’s surviving son William meant that he would not lead his father’s loyalists in resistance to Henry; instead, he would serve the new king and queen faithfully, dying during an 1159 expedition in support of Eleanor’s claim to Toulouse. The English kingdom had passed to the dukes of Normandy with the victory of Henry Plantagenet’s great-grandfather William the Conqueror over the last of the Anglo-Saxon kings in 1066.

William and his two sons had combined Anglo-Saxon patterns of strong royal control over the shires or counties with Norman traditions of princely power inherited from the Franks. Then Henry’s grandfather, the Conqueror’s third son Henry I, had added to this combination of governmental traditions effective new administrative structures that set the Anglo-Norman realm apart from other western European countries before the thirteenth century.

England’s unity, assured by geography and history long before the Angevin kings’ accession, would enable Henry Plantagenet and his sons to rule in an authoritarian, if not absolutist manner even when abroad for long periods. The strong government of the Anglo-Norman realm contrasted with weak ducal government in Eleanor’s lands, where the dukes of Aquitaine had never succeeded in devising advanced administrative structures. All Henry’s lands on the Continent lay within the kingdom of France, as did Eleanor’s; and the French monarch claimed to be their lawful lord, regardless of his ability to exert actual authority over them.

From the time of Henry and Eleanor’s coronation as king and queen of the English, conflicts first with Louis VII and later with his son Philip II would absorb the energies of Henry and his sons. Both Louis and his successor were determined to weaken and destroy the Angevin assemblage of lands, so much of which lay in France under their sovereignty. Once Henry had won the English throne, he possessed governmental mechanisms for efficient raising of funds for paying mercenary forces to fight on all fronts against his Capetian rivals. England’s role was to be the treasury for Henry and his sons in the constant warfare with the Capetian kings, supplying barrels of cash. Henry and even more so his two sons, Richard and John, would engage in a gigantic shakedown of English and Norman landholders.

Not surprisingly, many of the English would feel threatened by their arbitrary acts, and even mighty magnates lived in fear of the king’s wrath and indignation. All three of the Angevin kings would value England chiefly for its wealth readily tapped by a strong royal government. Despite the kingdom’s importance as a source of funds, they never viewed themselves as English, although they shared English ancestry through Henry I’s queen, Edith-Matilda, descended from Anglo-Saxon royalty.

As a result, the English would feel little love for Henry II or his sons, in contrast to the fondness of Louis VII’s subjects for their God-fearing and good-hearted monarch. Eleanor, regarded by her new subjects as even more alien than her Angevin husband and suspected of immorality on account of poisonous rumors following her from France, could contribute little to her husband’s popularity in England. The English would not give Eleanor their affection until she was an aged widow.

On 7 November 1154, Eleanor and Henry arrived at the Norman port of Barfleur where they were forced to wait a month until unfavorable winds let up and allowed them to put to sea and make for their new kingdom. The turning wheel of fortune bringing down the powerful, rich, and proud was a popular motif among medieval writers. Within two and a half years Eleanor had experienced profound turns in her own fortunes, passing from the unhappily married queen of France, to a newly divorced duchess of Aquitaine in flight to her homeland, to the bride of the young prince Henry Plantagenet, and now, in a sweeping upward turn, finding herself on the voyage to her coronation as England’s queen.

She had secured her long-sought separation from Louis VII and found a husband more to her liking: a younger, bolder, and more worldly prince with apparently limitless ambitions for more possessions and power. After taking Eleanor as his wife, Henry was the greatest prince in the French kingdom, a far larger landholder than the king, and about to be crowned king of England. Soon after Eleanor’s second marriage, she would bring forth a son which had the effect of disinheriting her two daughters from her first marriage, and giving Louis an unpleasant surprise, angering him. Eleanor’s former husband was not to disappear from her life, however; for Louis’s strained relationship with Henry II of England would be a major theme of the rest of his reign. The fortunes of Henry, Eleanor, and their sons would be inextricably bound up with the Capetian ruler’s position as their lord and their adversary.

Eleanor’s expectations for her new marriage cannot be deciphered. Clearly Henry Plantagenet was a more lively companion than Louis VII, always active and on the move, riding to the hunt when not fighting against rebels. At the same time, Henry’s excellent education ensured that learned thinkers and writers would be welcomed at his court, and Eleanor would find life there more stimulating than at Paris. She would not be disappointed in her new husband’s virility, and she and Henry would produce many children in rapid succession, seven of them living to adulthood.

No doubt Eleanor expected to be Henry’s partner in the political sphere, and for the first years of her marriage at least, her position as regent in England would prove satisfying, but the promised partnership would not last. If she had expected love and devotion from her new husband, she was to be disillusioned and disappointed. Henry would prove to be as cynical and despotic in his personal life as in politics, and Eleanor’s fate at his hands would ultimately be rejection, not admiration, respect, or devotion.”

- Ralph V. Turner, “A Husband Lost, a Husband Gained, 1149–1154.” in Eleanor of Aquitaine: Queen of France, Queen of England

#eleanor of aquitaine #eleanor of aquitaine: queen of france queen of england #henry ii of england #the anarchy #history #high middle ages #medieval #ralph v. turner

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