#Roman is great but he can and will use things on his favor to not come back to space

[comfortless]

God könig and his only worshipper who doesn't try to get him more followers cause she wants all of his attention on her

another strange vaguely Greek/Roman au?! ^^ (also to your other message: no worries!! being too nice would make me lazy!) this prompt is like a reversal of this and i am here for it!

content/warnings: suggestive, König may or may not have killed some guy no big deal..!

It isn’t as if he bestows great blessings upon you or grants your deepest, most guarded wishes…

It’s just that he’s lovely in all forms: the very apex of some marbelesque, masculine statue made flesh. Warm to the touch and so very real and alive that it was difficult to focus on worshiping him proper when your very being sang for him.

He’s probably only some great god of war, Ares, but without the long list of lovers and offspring - only you. There was nothing that he could do to benefit you much, just a humble citizen that had no need of taking up a weapon…

Yet he was so heart achingly beautiful with the docile look in his eyes, the contrast to his stature that bore the look of a proper hunter, you could not keep yourself from returning to him.

All of the other men in the city pale in comparison to the god you pray to, nestled up in the foothills where you make your trek day by day to speak… knowing that nightly he comes to you in dreams with little glimpses of futures or pasts: the things you can not comprehend yet those in Olympus could parse together with such ease.

As his only worshiper, you are never apart for long.

He descends that mountain each time to meet with you in green meadows with the gentlest look in his eyes.

He has no temple in which to pray to… but, you’ve made a temple of your own within yourself all for him. He knows it, knows well when you pray at your feet and he sheepishly orders you to stop that, stand, face him, and he would lend you his mighty weapon any day if you would just ask for him to use it.

Your god deserves and army of men to fight and scramble for his favor, a harem of women to tend to his needs… but the thought alone is enough to leave bitterness on your tongue.

You don’t want to share him, only savor the honeyed words and touches between the two of you, never muddy what is sacred with another’s prayers or offerings.

… Are yours not already enough?

You only find out that they most certainly are the day a suitor begins his arrogant courtship and… within that very hour he is no longer. A stray spear from the pit pierced right through him…? What a strange way to go out. You don’t even think to question it until you find yourself meandering through soft grass for your meeting with König.

He’s a warrior, too, he should know the intricacies of how a weapon that heavy might rise up on the wind just to strike some poor, silly man down before he could even take your hand and lie with you.

You tell him of this odd occurrence whilst you whittle away at a tiny carving of him with a paring knife, König sat just adjacent to you.

First, he tells you that a blade meant for herbs and vegetables is no good for wood. The dull blade is pried from your hands with ease and tossed aside into the foliage surrounding you both. No need for little idols when your god willingly comes down to grace you, anyhow…

Then, he tells you that… it isn’t fair for you to have eyes for any other. Is his presence not enough? Is he not stronger and more capable than any of your puny, mortal men? He could protect you, haul you up to Olympus and make you his bride, give you as many children as you want… Wouldn’t you like that more?

Your stare is so telling, hands shaking as you set the unfinished figure aside, and the words do not come, not when the look he gives you goes from adoring and sweet to near deadly in an instant. It’s the first time he’s offered to bless you with anything but bloodshed in your favor… a peculiar promise of love in return for your selfishness and gifts of milk and honey…

“I do not think I am worthy of that…” The words come tumbling, clumsy and weighty on your tongue. Could he detect the yearning there..? Surely he knew with the way he invaded your dreaming, and even now as his hand finds your shoulder to push you back down into the soft bed of the earth.

“You wish to make yourself worthy, little one..?”

You only nod, once, as your heart finds its way into your throat and your robe is torn away to flutter out with the wind.

[ancientcharm]

Wikipedia article that is only available in Spanish. I translated into English some abstract to share here. I always wanted to write a post about that "Antonine dynasty" fallacy. Luckily I found someone who explains much better

Ulpia-Aelia Dynasty

Ulpia-Aelia Dynasty is the new name proposed by Alicia M. Canto and adopted by a sector of current historiography to refer to the seven emperors of the Roman Empire, from Nerva to Comodo. Specifically includes emperors Trajan, Hadrian, Antoninus Pius, Marcus Aurelius and his co-emperor Lucius Verus.

Doctrinal approaches

Unlike other dynasties such as the Julio-Claudian dynasty, the Flavian dynasty or the Severan dynasty, there is no agreement in Ancient History on how to group and name the emperors of the 2nd century, "the best century in the history of Humanity" according the British historian Edward Gibbon.

The most used definitions from the 18th century until today have been and are "the Antonines", "the Good Emperors" and "the Adoptive Emperors". There were only two Antonine: Marcus Aurelius and Lucius Verus, and both were, above all, two Aelii (from the Aelia family). The adoptions were just a political cosmetic operation, but they did not comply with the ideal principles of adoption described by Galba or Pliny the Younger.

The inappropriateness of these three universal classifications is more evident in the face of the 48 ancient texts that demonstrate that throughout that century there existed an authentic dynasty, of Hispanic origins and roots, whose real link was not the adoptions, but the line of blood and kinship, entrusted to the women of the dynasty, who transmitted the legitimacy to inherit the throne: Pompeia Plotina, Vibia Sabina, Matidia the Younger, and both Annias, the so-called Faustina the Elder and Faustina the Younger, ending in Commodus.

After the elderly Nerva as a necessary introducer, the following six emperors: Trajan, Hadrian, Antoninus Pius, Marcus Aurelius, Lucius Verus and Commodus - externi (foreigners) according to the Roman historian Aurelius Victor - form an authentic lineage.

All this led Maria M. Canto to propose the term "Ulpio-Aelia", "the Ulpii Aelii", to define the true dynasty of Hispanic origin that goes from Trajan to Commodus (98-192 AD). Some ancient authors, such greek historian Herodian, demonstrate that the Romans themselves did see Commodus as a direct descendant of Trajan, katá thêlugonía ("by the maternal line"), that is, through the aforementioned empresses, and as "A fourth generation emperor".

The reason why names such as "the Antonine dynasty" or "the Antonine emperors" have universally triumphed is not found in ancient texts, but in the European historiography of the 17th and 18th centuries, whose arguments in this sense, although they do not find real foundation in the texts, have been so generally accepted until now.

The new proposal has already been accepted by authors such as José María Blázquez,​ the Italian expert Anna Maria Reggiani, among others,​ and the definition can be seen integrated even in some university subject programs. Although, without a doubt, two and a half centuries of historiographic tradition is still very decisive in favor of the other definitions in use.

​Alicia María Canto y de Gregorio (Havana, April 23, 1949 – Madrid, March 4, 2024), known as Alicia M. Canto, was a Spanish archaeologist and epigrapher. In 2011 she was appointed corresponding academic of the Royal Academy of History.

Nerva was chosen just as transitional ruler following the assassination of Emperor Domitian. Except him, the successors of "his dynasty" were related.

I'm really sick of hearing things such "Marcus Aurelius broke tradition by choosing moron Commodus just because he was his son; He made a serious mistake".

None of those emperors were chosen after going through a casting. Trajan's adoptive successor was his nephew, the only male relative he had, plus was married to Trajan's great-niece. Hadrian would have been emperor if Trajan had had a son? Marcus Aurelius and his wife Faustina were descendants of Trajan, he on his father's side and she on his mother's side. Marcus Aurelius did nothing more than continue the true tradition of his family.

Just as Augustus' dynasty is known as the Julio-Claudian, ending with Nero, Trajan's is the Ulpia-Aelia dynasty and ending with Commodus. And in my opinion the term Nerva Antonine dynasty, which I find in all English articles, simply doesn't make sense.

[sarafangirlart]

It’s fascinating how… indifferent, Perseus and Zeus are to each other… like we don’t really get any indications of their relationship be we (I) can speculate.

When Danaë was locked in a box with Perseus, Zeus sometimes orders Poseidon to rescue them, but sometimes it’s the nereids who rescue them out of their own volition. Also… why Seriphos? In antiquity it had a bad reputation for being poor and Roman emperors used it to banish their enemies so kinda weird. That’s not to mention that in some versions Polydectes straight up enslaves Danaë and Perseus, and does Zeus do anything about it since their predicament is his fault? No, granted this isn’t the only time Zeus abandoned his victim to be enslaved bc of his actions (look up Antiope).

When Perseus grew up, he never showed any interest in meeting his biological father, while his brother/descendant Heracles did. Guess Dictys was that much of a great dad lol. When Hermes and Athena assisted him, it was out of their own volition, not bc Zeus ordered them to, compare that to Zeus ordering Athena to help Heracles when he was in distress.

According to Ovid, Perseus made sacrifices to Hermes, Athena and Zeus, but sacrificing to a god doesn’t necessarily mean you like or dislike them (look at Agamemnon and Artemis) and it could be argued that he sacrificed to Zeus out of decorum rather than out of gratitude. But also there is a scene in the metamorphosis where Perseus talks to Atlas like “hey bro my dad is Zeus but if you don’t find that impressive I did this really cool quest, either way can I crash in your place?” Which idk is kinda funny, it implies he doesn’t mind that Atlas wouldn’t find being the son of Zeus impressive he just wanted a place to sleep.

Also it was Athena who turned Perseus into a constellation, not Zeus, it’s not like he can’t bc he turned his victims Callisto and Ganymede into constellations.

Ironically Hera seems to favor Perseus more than Zeus, but that relationship is mainly referenced in the Dionysiaca so take it with a grain of salt.

A lot of ppl point out that being a product of rape has affected Perseus, and that’s why he’s so protective of his mother and her agency, and why he has no interest in meeting his biological father, which I think is plausible.

Idk maybe I’m just imagining things bc Zeus is a dead beat to the vast majority of his children.

[wambsgansshoelaces]

Turmoil; Chapter 4

Roman Roy x Reader

a/n: I’m back on that grind guys. enjoy x

Word Count: 2.744k

“You’re fucking lucky Y/N was there,” Kendall says, struggling not to raise his voice. “You’re so fucking lucky your vote didn’t tip the scale.”

You’re back in Kendall’s office, you and him perched on his sofa while Roman is stood, leaning against the wall.

“I… I just couldn’t,” he says meekly.

“Then why’d we agree to a vote of no confidence?” you ask. “Roman, I get if your feelings are complicated about this, but you almost fucked us over.“

“Why am I doing this again?” he asks, pressing the heels of his palms into his eyes.

Kendall scoffs. “You need to think about what you want. Dad’s a horrible person doing horrible things. You can go run to him, but I’m staying here.”

“We go to Norway tomorrow. How about we just have a good time?” Roman suggests. “There’s nothing we- or he, for the matter, can do while we’re abroad. I need… I just need a break.” You roll your eyes and get to your feet.

“Whatever, Roman. I’ll see you at home.” You give Kendall an affectionate squeeze on the shoulder before going out and finding Greg in the bullpen.

“Oh, hello, Y/N.” He finishes whatever it is he was doing and turns in his chair to face you. “I could hear the… commotion from all the way over here. And I saw the police, and, uh, Kendall’s still alive, so…?”

“Yeah. It worked, surprisingly. They had to escort Logan out the conference room.” You drag a hand over your eyes. “Instead of dinner, want to go out for lunch? I like you, Greg, but my brain’s going to be fried by the time the work day’s over, and I don’t want to subject you to that.”

He smooths his dress pants at the knee before getting up. “Yeah, no, yeah, that’d be great.” He glances over your shoulder. “Uh, is he okay?”

You follow his gaze, peering into Kendall’s office to find Roman facing you both, watching intently with his hands folded behind his back. “Don’t mind him. He’s neurotic.” You touch your thumb to the cool gold of the ring sitting on your finger.

“Well, then, after you.” You walk across the street to a quaint brunch spot that’s hailed for it’s food. “I love this place,” Greg tells you. The conversation pivots, however, when you both are seated. “Shiv told me you need some, what should I say… favors?”

“We do, and I’m sorry it’s all been dumped on you.”

“No, it’s okay. It makes me feel important.”

You laugh. “What do you have in mind? Shiv tell you anything?”

“I’ve been thinking- and it’s completely valid if my voice isn’t relevant to you, but I’d like to share my thoughts -that instead of whaling so hard on Logan directly, why not try to get access to him through Marcia? Or any past… connection?”

“Do you think we’ll be able to find anything?”

”I heard, through the grapevine, of course, a few rumors about Marcia and a… new friend.”

“If you find anything,” you say carefully, “I think you know what to do.”

“I also have heard a lot of complaining from people who work directly under him. Or, used to, I guess.”

“I think the general consensus is that he’s a criminal piece of shit. We just can’t find any proof.”

“I think I’ll be able to find something.” He tentatively picks up the menu laid out in front of him.

“Do you think you’ll make it out to Norway?”

“Me? I think Roman would shoot me.”

“You should come, after you deal with things here. Everyone could use a break.”

“I’ll try. I do really need to get out of here for a while.”

“If Roman’s giving you trouble, you can tell me, you know.”

“Oh, it isn’t anything new. I don’t know what it is with him. He has his own issues he doesn’t know how to deal with, so sometimes he projects.”

“That’s profound,” you say. “You’re right to not think anything of it. I know him well enough by now to say I don’t think he thinks before doing anything.”

You both order, and conversation comes easily to the two of you. Greg’s a wholesome guy, you think. He makes you comfortable, and you know you can trust him.

“I wanted to tell you something,” he says after a while. “I haven’t seen Connor in a bit. But last time I did see him, he was on the phone with some lawyer, talking about a lawsuit. And I’m almost 100% sure it wasn’t you, because I know your name isn’t Brad.”

You give your drink a slow stir. “Did you catch what the lawsuit was about?”

“All I heard were the words ‘negligence’ and ‘innkeepers law’.”

You press your lips together. None of this seems right. “Is it possible you can figure out the firm he was speaking with?”

“I’ll do my best. I figured you’d want to know.”

“I do. Thank you, Greg.”

Eventually, after a fight over bill(which you won), you hail a taxi and make your way back home. You kick your heels off by the door, Roman’s dress shoes haphazardly strewn in the same vicinity. You pad into the kitchen and toss your keys onto the counter, clocking Roman sat on the couch.

“Greg, huh?”

“What about him?” You pull a bottle of water from the fridge.

“Do you like him?”

“Yeah, I do. He’s respectful and I can trust him,” you say acridly.

“I respect you. A lot, actually.”

“You don’t show it. It’s not a competition, anyway. Why do you care?”

“We’re engaged.”

You roll your eyes at his childishness. It’s starting to get on your nerves. “We’re just friends, remember? Your words, not mine.” You leave the kitchen and wander into your room. You don’t think Roman’s ever slept in the bed- he’s been living on the couch. He gets up and follows you. “Even if I was into Greg- which I’m not -what’s your deal?”

“I lied to you. That morning.” You’re sitting at your desk now, and stare up at him.

“About?”

“What I remember.” He takes both your hands. “I remember everything I said. I meant it.”

You can feel your face begin to heat up. “Are you drunk?”

“Sober. I swear it.” He uses his finger to draw a cross over his heart, still gripping your hand in his.

“What’s your point here, Roman?”

“I want to try being something. I want us to try being something.”

“Are we just ignoring the fact that you threw us under the fucking bus?”

“Yes, we are. We’ll talk about that later, I promise.” He gets to his knees, resting his cheek on your thigh as he looks at you. “I want to do something right, for once. I want to do this right.”

You’re sat frozen in place. You force yourself to card a hand through his hair, pushing it from his face.

“You were on the news, once. Giving some legal advice before my father went on air for some propagandist bullshit. I thought you were so fucking hot. I mean, I still do-” He cuts himself off. “What I’m trying to say is, I like you, you’re fucking gorgeous, and while the situation we’re in is less than ideal, I want to make something out of it.” You stay silent. “You’re kind, funny, you’re brighter than the fucking sun. You’re everything I’ve ever wanted, but I’m just some piece of garbage who keeps making things between us worse. Friends? I was lying, then, too. I’ll never be able to accept you as just a friend. I’ll never stop wanting you.”

“Really?” is all you can manage.

“Yes, really. And I know I’m an asshole. I’m proud of it, 90% of the time. That last 10% is when I’m with you and I feel so fucking guilty I made that precious smile of yours disappear. It eats me alive that I piss you off. That you don’t like me. But that’s all I’ve ever been capable of doing.”

“So change it. Make me like you,” you say quietly. Reluctantly, he pulls himself to his feet and instead hooks his arms under you, hoisting you up. He takes your place in your desk chair, settling you on his lap.

“You deserve lots better than me, Y/N.” Roman keeps his arms wound around you, one tight around your waist, the other across your back, anchoring you to him. “I don’t know what I was doing this morning. I get so scared of him, Y/N. It’s like he was looking into my soul.”

“If you think I deserve better,” you begin, “become better.” You let yourself lean into his chest. “As for the vote, I still think you’re an asshole.”

He sighs. “And that’s fair. Kendall ripped me a new one after you left.”

“Good.” His hand wanders idly up and down your back, gently massaging knots of tension that he can find. “Roman Roy, realizing the consequences of his actions.” You drag a finger across his jaw. “Am I dreaming?”

”If we are, I don’t want to wake up.”

“So, what now?”

“We be all lovey-dovey. I mean, we’re already engaged.”

You snort. “You can’t stop saying that.”

“Who wouldn’t, when engaged to someone who looks like you?” He gives your ass a quick pinch.

“Roman!”

“Sorry. Had to,” he says, grinning stupidly. “Jokes aside though, I want to take it slow.”

“I… Yeah. Let’s take it slow.”

“You do want this, right?” he asks quietly.

“I’ve wanted you since the minute we made eye contact.” You stifle a smile. “You’re sexy when you have a stubble. What happened to it?”

“What, I’m not sexy now?” He absentmindedly draws a hand over his smooth jaw. “I’ll grow it back for you.”

“Hey, I’m just kidding. You’re sexy now, don’t worry.” Roman grunts and moves the two of you to bed.

“What? My back hurts.” He sinks into his side of the bed. “Please don’t make me sleep on the couch again.”

“You’re always welcome here.” You sigh happily and roll out of bed.

“Where are you going?”

“To brush my teeth and get ready for bed, unlike some slob I know. No outside clothes on my bed, Roman.”

You duck the pillow he chucks at you.

As you progress through your nightly routine, eventually, he comes to stand with you at the sink. You make a face at him before returning to your business. For a bit, he just watches you, happy to just be in your presence. When he starts brushing his teeth, he hooks an arm around your waist and pulls you close.

You protest halfheartedly, and he rolls his eyes at you before spitting his toothpaste out. “Quit whining,” he tells you, giving your hip a squeeze.

“I’m building a wall between us tonight,” you threaten lightly.

“I was a rock climber as a kid.” He pokes you gently. “Now that you’ve let me into your cold, shriveled up heart, I’m not leaving.”

“You still have a lot of work to do, Roman,” you chide. “Just because you got onto your knees for the first time in your life doesn’t mean everything’s magically okay.”

You both pad back into your bedroom, crawling under the covers together. “I thought we could kiss and make up,” he says, propped up on his arm, facing you. You curl up on your side, also facing him.

“Absolutely not,” you tell him. “You’re going to sit here and explain yourself. Or you’re sleeping on the floor.”

He sighs, pulling up the blankets so that you’re both covered. “It’s like I blacked out. I was so scared, Y/N.”

“Why? He can’t do anything to you, Roman, especially now that I’m involved in all this.”

“It’s complicated,” he mutters.

”We have time,” you urge gently.

“It’s the way I grew up, I guess.” He collapses onto his back. “He’d snap over the smallest things. My entire childhood I was walking on eggshells. I don’t… It’s such a bad excuse. God, I feel horrible.” He covers his face with his hands.

You crawl over, close enough to him where you’re able to set your cheek onto his chest and still lay comfortably. You’re still facing him, and one of his hands moves to sit on your hip. “I think I was too harsh on you,” you murmur. “Don’t get me wrong, it still was a dick move, but I get it. Just promise you’ll do better, okay?”

He peels his other hand off of his face to wind it through your hair. “I promise. I promise.” You press a kiss to his chest, to which he stiffens. “Don’t,” he says quietly. “Don’t.”

Hesitantly, you pull away from him, settling on your side of the bed and facing the other way. You fall asleep without saying anything else.

You wake up to an empty bed. You thought it was going so well, too. You drag yourself out of bed and find him in the kitchen. Wordlessly, he pushes you a mug of coffee and a plate of scrambled eggs.

“I felt bad. But then I remembered I don’t know how to cook,” Roman says meekly. “I’m sorry. It’s getting too real for me.”

“What’s that mean?”

“I, uh, ‘ve never been in a serious relationship. Not with someone I like this much. I don’t… I don’t want to fuck this up, Y/N.”

You try wiping the bleariness from your face. “I don’t understand you, Rome.”

He reaches out, wiping a bit of coffee from your lip. “I hope you can learn to.”

“As long as you put in the effort, too.” You look up at him. “I don’t mean to pressure you into anything you don’t want. I just mean I want you to actually try.” You take a sip from your mug. “Don’t take this the wrong way, but you haven’t exactly been… proactive the last week.”

He leans against the counter behind him. “Who’s the one who went out with another man?”

“Roman, that doesn’t have anything to do with anything.” You laugh as he jabs a hand into your side.

“I’m not going to let you forget it.”

“It’s Greg. Wholesome, kind, Greg.”

“You should’ve been out with me.”

“Take me out, then.”

He bridges the small distance between you and fits his hands into the curves of your waist. “I’ll be all over you in Norway, don’t worry.” He takes the heel of his palm and massages circles into the skin of your hip.

“We need to leave soon,” you tell him. You want to kiss him, but you know you can’t.

“I haven’t even packed,” he says lightly.

“Roman!”

“God, I’ll never get sick of hearing that.”

You drag him into the closet and roll his suitcase over to him. “Get to it.”

☾𖤓

At the airport, Roman carries all of your bags for you. He even demands to hold your purse, a cute short strapped Prada you’d treated yourself to the first big check you’d received. He holds it by the handle over his shoulder the same way one would hold a jacket. He looks silly with his sunglasses on and your purse sitting on his back. It’s endearing, and you smile softly at him.

In the car out to the private jet, you and Shiv make plans to go out shopping your first day in Norway. Willa sits cramped next to Connor, and you feel bad, so you and Shiv invite her. Kendall’s practically snoring on Roman’s shoulder. The poor guy’s been working dusk till dawn this whole ordeal. He deserves the break.

You’re glad Logan won’t be taking the same plane as the six of you. You wouldn’t be able to handle it- the paranoia, his snide comments, and hell, even just his voice would set you off.

You and Shiv settle across from each other on the plane, her feet propped up in your lap. Roman’s slumped against you, asleep, and you think he’s drooling. Kendall sits across from him, also asleep, neck pillow and sleeping mask on like the sleeping beauty he is.

You sigh contentedly.

If you close your eyes, you can pretend like the threat that is Logan Roy isn’t dangling over your heads.

If you close your eyes, you can pretend like you’re just travelling with your chosen family.

If you close your eyes, you can pretend like you’re at peace.

[shmothman]

hands (put your empty hands in mine)

vash x reader drabble (rated g, 550 words)

Scarred from wrist to fingertip—just like the rest of him—Vash’s hands are never anything but gentle and careful when they wrap around yours. All of him is careful with you, often borderline treating you as if you’re fragile, but can you blame him when human life so often is? It’s only out of love for you; out of fear that you’ll be ripped away from him. Still, he can’t bear to hold on too tight. The guilt (of putting you in danger just by keeping you close) is something he’ll never fully be able to escape, but it’s something you can help lessen, with patience and love and the constant reminder that he is deserving.

At first, even just holding your hand is nearly enough to make him cry. He’s denied himself a great many things over the past hundred and thirty years—affection chief among them—and accepting it now is difficult, even when it’s something he wants more than anything else. Give him some time to get used to it; he’ll be seeking it out constantly before long. Your hand in his becomes an anchor, a comfort, a reminder that you’re here and you’re real and he isn’t alone anymore. You’re nothing short of a miracle, to him.

Though, of course, he gets nervous, especially in the beginning—his hand sweaty and trembling as he gives you a wobbly grin; he might even give you his prosthetic hand to hold (although any other time he favors the other) to keep you from seeing just how nervous he is. Not that you can’t tell. You know him too well for that. He’ll be even more awestruck when you take his right hand anyway, interlacing your fingers with his and giving him a squeeze of reassurance. You don’t mind if his palm is a little bit sweaty. Yours is too.

Not to say that you shy away from his left hand: though the metal gets far too hot to hold beneath the desert suns, it cools in the evening like everything else, and you can sit with him, tracing the nicks and scuffs of it. He doesn’t have much feeling in it, but watching you draw mindless patterns against it makes his heart sing. Still, the fact that it’s a weapon makes him hesitant to touch you with it; he wishes he could keep that part of himself away from you entirely. You coax him out of that melancholy every time, though—especially when you take it and press it to your cheek, swearing the coolness of it feels like heaven.

One surefire way to get him to melt is to brush your lips over his knuckles, or even better, press a kiss to his open palm when he goes to cup your cheek. He’s always red-faced around you, but when you give him such open adoration, your lips against the calluses he’s acquired in all his years as a gunslinger, he lights up like a roman candle, pink to the tips of his ears. (And if you compliment his hands? If you tell him how safe and loved they make you feel? How you love that he chooses to use them for good? For love and peace? Vash has long since decided that he’s yours forever, but this only cements that fact tenfold.)

[richeeduvie]

Was never a Stewie girlie but “oh honey, how long have you been in love with me?” has me weak and quaking. More Stewie being a smug asshole about baby asking him to be her date / using him to make Roman jealous etc pls!!!

You'll get it soon enough, but it's funny that even outside of the Weddingbells!AU, Stewy is just a trigger for Roman. A strikes a hot nerve in him and gets him all panicky. And Stewy never faulters, he doesn't have to try to stay cool and there's great enjoyment in saying the vein pop.

It's gonna get to the point where Roman can't threaten or insult Stewy at the sight of...say, Stewy feeding Baby, because even if Stewy begins to struggle with his growing feelings for her, he can very much still do things to indulge Baby's spite, even if she denies it.

"Open wide."

"Stewy."

"You can also tell me to gag on it, you know. I know you can top me in the game of slight, sexual innuendo."

Baby opens her mouth and gets spoon fed a melted berry cookie bar. She moans and Stewy smiles.

"My turn, I can't go home anorexic."

Baby returns the favor.

Roman holds a drink in his hands across the room, his head hangs forcefully low with eyes almost up through his brows. He breathes hard.

"Rome? You okay?"

Kendall can't look, but Roman does with a soft turn of his head. His brows curve. Up, down.

"Rome-"

Roman jolts up from his chair, coming away from the room as he rubs his eyes. He tries his best to dry hot tears.

Kendall makes a fist flex when Stewy kisses Baby's hair.

"Aren't you glad you're sexually obsessed with me? It gets you delicious fucking desert."

"Shut up."

[walkswithmyfather]

Genesis 40:8 (NIrV). “We both had dreams,” they answered. “But no one can tell us what they mean.”Then Joseph said to them, “Only God knows what dreams mean. Tell me your dreams.”

Genesis 50:20 (NLT). “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many people.”

Romans 8:28 (ICB). “We know that in everything God works for the good of those who love him. They are the people God called, because that was his plan.”

Ephesians 2:10 (NLT). “For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.”

“Six Dreams that Came True” By Bible Love Notes:

5 Reasons that God entrusted Joseph with 6 life-changing dreams.

Joseph’s life involved six dreams: two about his destiny, two about the destiny of two fellow prisoners, and two about the destiny of Egypt (Genesis 37-41).

Why did God entrust Joseph with these dreams?

God had a purpose for Joseph's life, and Joseph had these godly qualities:

1. Joseph gave God the credit (Genesis 40:8; Genesis 41:15-16).

He never took credit for the special insights, abilities, and favor God gave him.

2. Joseph persevered.

He spent thirteen years in slavery and twenty-two years separated from his family.

3. Joseph refused to be sidetracked by sin (Genesis 39:6-18). He refused the advances of Potiphar's wife at great personal expense.

4. Joseph did his best in the worst of circumstances because the Lord was with him (Genesis 39:2, 23).

5. Joseph knew sinful people could not thwart God’s plan (Genesis 50:20). Genesis 50:20 is an incredible, faith-filled statement much like Romans 8:28.

God has a plan for each of our lives (Ephesians 2:10), and Joseph's example can serve us well.”

[commander-krios]

Get to Know Your Tav!

I was tagged by @charmedslytherin and @my-favourite-zhent, thank you, my friends!

Tagging: @starknstarwars, @eluvisen, @cr-noble-writes, @antivanbrandy, @thegoblinwitchqueen and @jbnonsensework

Juniper

What is your tav’s….

favorite weapon?

Her words. She's witty, sarcastic, quick with her words and most people are more afraid of what she'll say than what she'll actually do. Her ability to talk herself out of trouble is her best and most useful weapon.

style of combat?

Juniper is a mix of a wild magic sorcerer and a bard. She uses her lute to help focus her magic but it doesn't always work and the wild magic surges are usually not hurtful, but more annoying than anything else. Sometimes, they come in handy. But mostly, she uses spells.

most prized possession?

Her lute. It was a gift from her father after she left bard school, and it goes with her everywhere. It also has her second most prized possession too: A brooch made by Dammon given to her by Rolan with a warding spell on it. She has the brooch inlaid into her lute's fretboard so she can keep both close to her.

deepest desire?

To find a place where she belongs. She grew up in Neverwinter, had a loving family, but she's always been an outsider in many circles, mostly because of her and her mother's reputation for being wild magic sorcerers. But she finds that in Baldur's Gate, with her friends and Rolan.

guilty pleasure?

Romance novels. She keeps a collection of them in her room in Ramazith's Tower, Cal borrows them frequently. (So does Rolan, but he'd never admit that).

best-kept secret?

The origin of how tiefling entered her family. Her mother's grandfather, a high ranking human who lived in Daggerford, made a deal with Raphael to bring magic (which had been lost decades ago) back to his family. He wanted power, he didn't care how to get it. When his granddaughter, Elara, was born, she was born with great powers but she was also born as a tiefling. No one knows the truth about this besides Elara, her immediate family, and Juniper.

greatest strength?

Her compassion. Many people wouldn't think that was a strength, but she loves people, loves life, and is willing to make sure everyone has the means to achieve their goals. She goes out of her way to help people, to make them feel good and happy and loved.

fatal flaw?

Also her compassion. Sometimes, people take advantage of it. Sometimes, it gets her into trouble that she has to fight out of. But she refuses to change because of it.

favorite smell?

Lilacs. They were her favorite flowers in Neverwinter and Rolan tries to find the flowers or even perfumes with the scent for her as gifts.

favorite spell or cantrip?

Vicious Mockery

pet peeve?

People interrupting her or someone else who is talking.

bad habit?

She tends to turn herself into a cat (or set herself on fire) quite a bit. She doesn't mean it, it's just something that happens thanks to her magic.

hidden talent?

She can also cook. Her father taught her many amazing recipes, her best being his sweet rolls with simple syrup.

leisure activity?

Reading. It's her favorite thing to do when not working and she'll sit around for hours reading if she's found a particularly excellent book.

favorite drink?

Wine made from flowers and berries. She doesn't drink often but it's one of the only indulgences she splurges on.

comfort food?

Sweet rolls with simple syrup. It reminds her of home.

favorite person(s)?

She has many favorite people. Obviously her father, Feanor, is one of her top favorites. He always provided for her, loved her, helped her find her love of music.

Rolan. She loves him more than she's ever loved anyone before and while she drives him insane, he can't help but enjoy it.

Karlach, her bestie, her sister, her favorite friend.

Cal, Lia, Lakrissa, Alfira, and the rest of the tieflings. They become her family in Baldur's Gate.

The tiefling kids, particularly Ide, Mirkon, Matthis, Silfy, and Arabella.

favored display of affection (platonic and/or romantic)?

Hugs, hand holding, kissing (on cheek for platonic, lips for romantic).

If you're her significant other, she'll lean on you, brush her hands along your shoulders, lips linger on your cheek, fingers play with your hair.

fondest childhood memory?

Waking up early in her home in Neverwinter to the smell of hot tea and warm sweet rolls, sitting in front of the fire while a snowstorm rages outside, listening to her father play the flute.

free-response! Is there anything else about your Tav you'd like to share?

Juniper is chaotic, but well intentioned. She loves life and is willing to make everyone happy, even at the expense of herself (much to Rolan's grumbling)

[vivitalks]

take in every moment (hold it close again)

hiii this is for the "movie night" prompt on my jasico bingo card!! short sweet and silly the three best things a fanfiction can be. and im posting it in the MIDDLE OF THE DAY seriously who am i title from netflix trip by ajr :) read it here on ao3

It stands to reason that a demigod legion modeled on the Ancient Romans wouldn't think much of technology. And it's true that demigods and modern tech don't tend to get along. It really shouldn't surprise Nico when nobody knows where to find a TV.

And yet.

“Seriously,” he finally complains to Jason, walking Via Principalis with coffee courtesy of Bombilo, “it's like you're all trying to become social outcasts.”

“I think the whole demigod thing covers that,” Jason says.

“My point exactly! Nobody is even trying. Plus, monsters can't get into camp anyway, so who cares if you're using technology?”

Jason shrugs a shoulder. “Yeah, but why risk it?” 

It's cool but sunny, the perfect weather for Jason. Not that Nico has any sort of bias. Jason looks great in all weather, in Nico's completely objective opinion, but gentle rays of sunlight make his hair as golden as his sword and give his skin an extra glow.

At least six times a day, Nico wonders how the most beautiful person in the world is his boyfriend. Some call it insecurity; Nico calls it a reality check.

He checks back into reality in time for Jason to be saying, “Besides, most of the people here spend their whole lives either in the legion or in New Rome. Nobody is missing out because nobody is on the Internet or watching movies or any of that. It's a pretty insular community.”

“Not anymore,” Nico says. “Now that there's the exchange program, Camp Jupiter is going to start getting Greeks, and most of them spend their years out in the real world, experiencing real-world things, like movies and music and all that fun stuff you Romans hate.”

“Don't ‘you Romans’ us,” Jason says, swatting playfully at Nico. Nico doesn't bother to dodge, but he does grin. “But you may have a point.”

“I do have a point. If you really want the Greeks and Romans to get along, there can't be this massive cultural gap. The Greeks will feel superior, the Romans will feel left out, and then we'll probably have another war and I'll have almost killed myself bringing the Parthenos to Camp Half-Blood for nothing.”

Jason lifts an eyebrow. “Oh, is that all?”

“Shut up. I'm serious!”

“I didn't realize you felt so strongly about this,” Jason says, looking bemused. “Wait, why do you feel so strongly about this?”

“In case you hadn't noticed, I'm a little behind on popular culture myself,” Nico says flatly.

“Really? Why is that?” Jason asks, with a straight face.

Bravely, Nico ignores him. “I'm trying to kill two birds with one stone here. Get some Vulcan kids to put together a TV. I'm sure they can work their magic and make it monster-repellent or whatever.”

“And do what with it?”

“Start a film class?” Nico suggests. “I would get a Greek demigod to help with the curriculum, though.”

“You can just say Will.”

“I don't think Will should come near the curriculum with a ten-foot pole. He'll just put every single Star Wars movie on there. I was actually thinking of Piper.”

“Piper?” Jason shakes his head. “Right. Duh. Movie star dad.”

“Yeah. She's probably our best bet.”

“We’re going to have to run this by the praetors before we get any further,” Jason says. He takes a long, considering sip of his coffee, which does not contain nearly enough sugar. Nico tried it earlier and almost choked.

“We?”

“Yeah. I'm in favor. You're not wrong about the cultural deficit.”

Nico grins. He kisses the corner of Jason's mouth — just because he can. That sunny glow shines even brighter in Jason's eyes.

“Lucky for us,” he says cheerfully, “we have some sway with the praetors.”

The film class proposal is met with conditional approval from Frank and Reyna. “Culture in Film: From Classic to Contemporary” becomes the most popular course in the legion within days. Piper helps them build a curriculum, which in this case means just choosing fifteen classic movies — all of which she vehemently describes as “must-sees” — and expressing profound shock at the revelation that neither Jason nor Nico have seen any of them.

“But it’s Princess Bride,” she keeps saying. “How can you not have seen it? ‘My name is Inigo Montoya, you killed my father, prepare to die’? Is nothing sacred?”

If anything, at least her attitude proves how absolutely necessary this class is.

The conditions of the class are sternly outlined for them by Reyna: (1) do not screen anything rated higher than PG-13; (2) only select movies with some relevant message or theme that can be transmitted to the legionnaires; and (3) do not use the forthcoming anti-monster television for anything other than class use.

Rule one is easy. Nico and Jason break the second and third rules within two weeks of the first course.

“I can’t believe you even suggested this,” Nico whispers.

The classroom where “Culture In Film” takes place is silent after hours. At the front of the room towers an 80-inch, Imperial Gold television, the most eye-catching thing in the room. Just below it, there's a box Nico distantly recognizes. A DVD player — Demigod Video Discs, optimized for playback on magical TV screens. This, too, is constructed out of Imperial Gold. No doubt the TV and DVD player combined are imbued with some combination of enchantments designed to make them undetectable to monsters.

“I'm not a praetor anymore,” Jason replies, approaching the DVD player. “What can they do? Kick me out of the legion? Half the time I'm at Camp Half-Blood anyway.”

“Not sure that argument will hold up in front of the Senate,” Nico theorizes, but he's not really worried. In fact, he kind of loves that Jason was so committed to having a movie night with Nico that he was willing to break the rules for it.

“Then let's just not get caught,” Jason says. 

That works for Nico. Their emergency escape route is to shadow-travel out, but since Nico shadow-traveled them in, he's hoping it doesn't come to that. Even the short distance from barracks to classroom has his eyes drooping. If he tries it again, he's liable to pass out.

Jason kneels and examines the DVD player. “Do I just…put it in?”

“I guess?” Nico peers at the player and the TV. “We should probably turn on the TV.”

“That would be smart.”

Nico feels around for a button and finds it underneath the screen. When he presses it, the big black screen turns royal blue, and digital letters show a message onscreen: NO DISC DETECTED.

Nico and Jason exchange a look. 

“Is it weird that I'm more stressed right now than I was when we fought Gaea?” Jason whispers.

Nico laughs. “We're not going to get caught, Jason.”

“I'm not worried about that. I just have no idea how to work this thing. What if I break it?”

“I'll do it,” Nico says, snatching the DVD case from Jason's hands. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, another “must-see” from Piper that didn't make the curriculum cut. According to Jason, when he told her he'd never even heard of it, she got Leo to modify a disc for their benefit and demanded he find some way to watch it. Nico, having also never heard of it, got roped into the deal by some combination of Charmspeak and standard-issue Jason Grace-ness.

Nico removes the disc and takes a breath. “Here goes nothing.”

As soon as the disc is in the player, the machine whirs. The screen turns black again. Nico and Jason take a united step backwards.

“Isn't there supposed to be a remote?” Jason asks. At the word remote, a panel from the top of the DVD player opens up. Inside is a remote. “Oh, sweet.”

“Come on,” Nico says, throwing himself onto the nearest couch. Romans and their couches. They're an indulgent breed, these Romans, but in times like these Nico appreciates that.

“Is it playing?” Jason questions, and just then, a deafening blast of orchestral sound erupts from the TV. Jason yelps and staggers backwards, and Nico cracks himself up. “Okay! It's playing!”

“Sit down, Superman.”

Jason sits down. He takes the spot right next to the armest. Nico would never take the armrest seat. He likes to have an escape route. He's special like that.

(“Traumatized,” whatever. Tomato, to-mah-to.)

“So far so good,” Jason says, offering an arm, kind of gesturing at Nico to come closer. Nico obliges. Jason doesn't mind being trapped, which is his own prerogative. So Nico takes up every inch of space on Jason's free side. He's not so small anymore, but he fits right up under Jason's arm like the dark half of a yin and yang symbol.

“Nothing's happened yet,” he points out.

Jason just squeezes his shoulders. “I'm having a movie night with my boyfriend. Like a regular teenager. Everything is great from where I'm standing.”

“Let's not be hasty. The movie could still suck.”

“Wouldn't matter.”

“It'd matter to me,” Nico says haughtily. “I'm putting a lot of faith in Piper.”

“She seemed absolutely confident we would both like this movie.”

“So imagine how foolish she'll feel if we don't.”

“I'm starting to think your attitude is the problem.” Jason grins. “Open your mind, Nico.”

“I'm open-minded!”

“And shut up,” Jason adds. “‘Cause we've already missed the beginning and I don't know how to rewind this thing.”

“Not my fault,” Nico says. “I was just—”

Jason shuts him up by occupying his mouth with Jason's mouth, which is a proven top-five strategy for getting Nico to stop talking. 

“Okay,” he says. And kisses Jason again. It's never any less awesome. “Shutting up.”

The movie keeps playing. Nico settles into Jason with his whole body and thinks about how this is the first time he's ever watched a movie with a boyfriend, and how absolutely astonishing that is, by itself. Even if it does suck, he figures there are worse things in the world than watching a bad movie with your boyfriend.

In fact, there might not be many things better.

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

Living His Word

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- not by works, so that no one can boast. — Ephesians 2:8-9

In Ephesians 2:1-3 the Apostle Paul describes humanity's sorry spiritual state outside of Christ. He says that we were dead in our transgressions and sins, we used to follow the ways of the world and Satan, "the ruler of the kingdom of the air," and we used to gratify "the cravings of our flesh." Given this sorry state, he says that "we were by nature deserving of wrath."

Happily, however, things changed for some of us. Some of us have accepted the gospel concerning Jesus Christ and have been saved. Some of us have been rescued from humanity's wretched state.

Why? What happened?

What happened was that God did something. God did something about our sorry spiritual state. Instead of leaving us to the wrath we deserved, He saved us. Why? It was because He loved us: "But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions" (Ephesians 2:4-5). When the gospel of Jesus Christ was presented to us God gave us the favor and grace necessary to believe by faith that the gospel is true. We were made alive with Christ by grace through faith.

It was, therefore, not from us. It was from God. Although it is certainly true that we are the ones that actually have the faith, although it is certainly true that God credits our faith to us as righteousness (Genesis 15:6; Romans 4:22), it was God's grace and favor in the first place that enabled us to have the faith necessary for salvation. It is true that in order to be saved we must believe in the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 16:31), but God's grace enables us to believe in Him.

Our faith is not, then, the product of our own effort and work. It is the product of God's grace. We can't boast about our faith as though we achieved it on our own. As Paul says elsewhere, "Where, then, is boasting? It is excluded" (Romans 3:27).

On the day that is coming we won't stand before God boasting about ourselves, but crying out "Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb" (Revelation 7:10).

© 2016 by Bible League International

[vibingandsimping]

first and foremost thank you for taking this up ❤️ im demi straight 😚

i am 5'3 and a kiwi 🇳🇿 i have a slim build, bleached blonde hair down near my collarbone, blue eyes and dress super light academia!! i am an intp too!

i am a super big fan of ancient greece and the roman empire, and i am a very studious girl!! i am learning ancient greek actually, and i read a lot of books on homer sophocles socrates etc . i LOVE all things ancient. i am actually pretty dorky haha, and i tend to ramble about silly things im interested in and id def win a general knowlesge game show. 🥸 but initially upon meeting me there is a wall where i sort of have to mask a lot of my eccentric behaviour . i am also suppperr fidgety and love to bite & chew on things. around my neck is my car keys and my gym membership key card, and there is.... 2 many bite marks on that mf card. 💀 anywho i am often dazing off and stuck in my own head!

i guess finally i am super used to helping people without reciprocation, and feeling useful is super important for me !! and i hate asking people for things. it is very unusual feeling when people compliment/appreciate/help me and it comes with guilt(??) i am pretty oblivious so thats cool (flaws amiright). i am super dedicated and loyal for people i love and love having sole attention and praise 🤲 i can get skeptical of ppl easily though and i overthink!

THANK YOUUUU hopefully not too long i woke up to my air conditioning dripping on me .... it's 3am

(Commissions aren’t officially open yet but this was commissioned! Matchups are closed and I am answering those already in my inbox!)

This one feels obvious but you and Gale would get along!

You both share the qualities of being studious, bit of nerds/dorks and generally seem quite alike to me. Obviously not the exact same but my initial thought was Gale. He’d fall in love with listening to you talk about your interests (and hopefully you’d reciprocate the same for him.) To have someone as interested in the finer arts and general knowledge as him is such a thrill. Not everyone has such intellectual curiosity! He personally hasn’t much need for favors, besides early on when he needs assistance with the weave, but he appreciates it nonetheless. He’d prefer quality time and words of affirmation than anything. He has the patience to sit and get to know you beyond what you mask as. Gale would definitely find you interesting no matter the type of person you were. He just wants to get to know the real you.

The dust clouded your lungs as you wiped at a bookshelf in the dungeon. This place was long abandoned and was made clear from Shadowheart’s unease. Her complaining about being uncomfortable staying in this place for too long ringing in your ears nearly the entire time. Luckily, you found some time for yourself when this expansive library was uncovered. You were always seeking neat books and tomes to read, curse your curious nature, so the dust was a fair price to pay. Your finger scanned the wall before landing on one that caught your eye. Pulling it out carefully in fear of a trap. Once in your hands you scanned it over- audibly gasping in excitement. You felt as if you hit the jackpot. You tapped your feet a couple times and gnawed your lip as you opened the pages. You always had a fixation on ancient history of Faerûn. This, in particular, was about the Great Sphinx’s and their riddles. Telling the stories of ancient philosophers and the adventures they experienced. You read with rapt attention as your party conversed. The absence of yourself must’ve been noticed when Gale approached. A smile playing on his lips at how pleased you appeared. “I do hate interrupting the enjoyment of a well written book but everyone else seems to be getting antsy. I don’t think they can appreciate the finer details of historic libraries like we do.” The last sentence was spoken with a sarcastic humor that admittedly made you smile. Instead of responding to his comment, you closed the book and held it out to him. Gale leaning back a bit as you smiled sheepishly; realizing your enthusiasm got the better of you. “You must know this book, yes?” Gale clears his throat before nodding. You continue without skipping a beat. “This is a relic! My favorite riddle from the Sphinx’s comes straight from this! A first-hand copy.” Gale laughs and gently takes the book into his hands. Flipping through the pages with utmost care. Meanwhile, you watch and gnaw your lip once more. “What creature walks on four legs in the morning, two in the evening and three at night?” You recite in expertise. The wizard perks back up and joins you in unison for the answer. “A humanoid crawls on four legs as an infant, walks on two legs as an adult and walks with a cane in elder age!” You could very well see some side-eyes from the other party members. Yet, you couldn’t bring yourself to care in the slightest. It wasn’t often since the tapdole you got to ever geek out on your interests. Nonetheless someone who shared them to some extent! Gale breaks the bated silence. “I do believe we should get going. Though, I wouldn’t be opposed to sharing a glass of wine and discussing the rest of this literature?” You only smile, nod, and follow as he leads the way back towards the entrance. Your poor lip was about chewed to bits, though.

As for an NSFW pairing… Halsin might be your pair!

He does believe you to be the most beautiful woman around. Even if you won’t share him in your heart explicitly- he will in your sheets (or wherever you’d like do to the do). Halsin can do just about anything you’d wish for. Beyond all that he is a very sweet, attentive and caring elf. He’ll make sure that every night you spend with him is just as satisfying as the last if not better. He has admired you for some time now.

Your lips clash in a shared desperation. The adventure long and the tension between you two palpable. As soon as you two settled into camp and night fell- he was on you like a beast. Hoisting you around his hips as his hands clasped your rear. Your arms slinked around his neck, the kiss feverish, as he guided you into your tent. Occasionally he’d growl into the kiss as he reeled himself inside. You both knew his nature of excitement. He carefully laid you out on the bedroll and broke the kiss to instead favor your neck. Your hair fell around you like a mock halo, golden and bright. Sucking and peppering the skin with his love. Blunt teeth grazing you each time he parted to move further down. All you could do is sit and whine pathetically as the sensations washed over. His fingers working quickly at your shirt and pants so he could admire you in your glory. You shimmied your hips to help assist him in ridding the clothing faster. Halsin straddled you a moment and watched you carefully. Pupils blown wide as his chest raised with each breath. “Gorgeous. Absolutely gorgeous. You stun me every time I see your beauty.” He makes quick work of his own restrictions. As soon as he was fully nude you could clearly see his excitement. Cock standing at full attention at his stomach as he grabs your hips. There’s a fleeting moment of fear- thinking he’s going to enter you with little foreplay. Yet, that’s cut off when he only brings your core closer to his face. Inhaling deeply between your thighs before dipping into your sex. Tongue running over the folds to capture your essence and then lavishing your clit. Your shoulder-blade’s are pressed against the bedroll but it’s barely noticeable. Most of your weight was supported by the huge elf so all your attention could instead focus on the way he ate you like a man starved. The suckling and lapping was almost audible if not for the cries that escaped your chest. He relished in them and continued his efforts twofold to hear your beautiful sounds. Heels digging into his back as he edged you closer to the brink of ecstasy. Then, when you felt an orgasm creeping up on you, he slipped two fingers in. Lifting his head from your sex momentarily to speak with such a gruff you shuddered. “I intend on making you fall apart several times tonight. Once I am satisfied I will fuck you full. Breed you so prettily so that everyone will know. As if they can’t hear your delicious voice already.”

[feedingtheflockministry]

Be Patient

Patience is a person's ability to wait something out or endure something tedious, without getting riled up. When we are going through difficult times it can be extremely hard to be patient, in fact, it can sometimes seem impossible. You may be going through a difficult time right now and you are struggling to be patient.

Let’s take encouragement today. It says in Romans 12:12 "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer". When we are hurting or struggling, we can not see the light and the end of the tunnel. We may feel like things will never change and maybe God has forgotten about us. This is not true, for He has said "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5). In your difficult times, he wants you to be patient understanding that He is able to turn things around for you. It is easy to blame God in troubles and much harder to trust him but today He wants you to take that brave step of being patient and trusting Him.

Job was a man who found great favor in the eyes of God and was blessed abundantly. When Satan caused his livestock, servants, and children to die Job was deeply hurt. He was furthermore afflicted with painful sores from the crown of his head to the soles of his feet. Through all this suffering Job knew that God is good and he remained faithful and patient. The Bible tells us "The LORD blessed the latter part of Job's life more than the former part." Job 42:12. Likewise, Abraham became a father of a great nation after patiently waiting for God to bless him.

It is difficult to be patient during a time of tribulation but let’s be assured that this is a rewarding fruit of the Spirit. God does not slumber nor sleep and is always watching over his loved ones. There is something beautiful waiting at the end of your patience, trust the Lord and let him bless you today. - YouVersion Bible plan Fruit Bowl

[tickldpnk8]

Distant Mirrors Reread: August

So here’s the thing, I kind of hated this story the first time I read it. It didn’t seem to give much to the overall plot. I don’t know enough about ancient Roman history to understand the allusions, but I knew that I didn’t care for the rape undertones.

But I’m rereading the comics carefully for any hints to the ending or for any world-building clues, and I was shocked at just how chock-full this issue is. So this recap is way longer than I thought it would be. (and this is also why it took me longer to pull together)

On Dream's Ravens

We get an introduction to another of Dream's ravens in this issue: Aristeas of Marmora. So as far as I can tell, the order for the ravens we know by name is:

Lucien/Lucienne Aristeas Jessamy Matthew

What's cool about Aristeas is his connection to both Apollo and Griffins. If he existed, he was a poet who lived in Ancient Greece and he shows up in Herodotus' The Histories. It's said that he appeared 240 yrs after his death to ask for an altar to be set up to him and the god Apollo...who he had been living with as a raven since his death. The poem he is attributed as having written describes the "far North" where griffins guard gold among other things. Which is likely where Morpheus got his Griffen to guard his castle...as said Griffen tells Matthew he was hatched in the fictional Arimaspia mentioned in the poem.

We get this entire backstory (minus the griffins) summed up for us in just 3 lines of dialog where Augustus asks the raven who he is and follows it up with "the poet, who became Apollo's raven?" when Aristeas introduces himself. I totally missed this when I first read this issue.

On the nature of gods

Gods are born of the Dreaming and return to it when they "die". This gives a bit of a different color to the conversations we saw in Season of Mists. When gods (such as Bast) die—presumably from lack of believers/worship—they return to the Dreaming. In a sense, all of Morpheus' petitioners were seeking favor with their creator. Or at least one who has the power to unmake them. Including Loki.

And then there's the fact that Morpheus tends to get mixed up with Apollo since they have similar attributes. See the reference to Aristeas above, but also this panel:

This is a great little snippet that I think serves no other purpose than to explain why popular Greek myths list Apollo as Orpheus' father when in the comics it's Morpheus. And to maybe make space for the Endless within the larger pantheon of pantheons.

And this panel was interesting because it implies that Morpheus takes counsel from the Roman pantheon. In it, he's explaining why he is coming to Augustus to help him plan for Rome's future. And says that the god Terminus requested that Morpheus help Augustus.

Terminus is the god of boundaries and is usually depicted as a bust on a boundary stone. As far as I know, he doesn't have any relation to existing Sandman characters and doesn't appear again in the overall story. So the question I have is how much overlap is there in this universe between the Greek and Roman pantheons? How does this pantheon relate to his relationship with Calliope and the Greek gods?

On the nature of Dreams and the Dreaming

It's in this issue that we finally get an explanation of the Gates of Horn and Ivory. Augustus explains that dreams come through 2 gates. The dreams that lie come through the gates of Ivory, while the true dreams pass through the gates of Horn. This notion is something that Gaiman borrowed from the Ancient Greeks: it first appeared written down in The Odyssey.

It's interesting to me that he mentions having false dreams every spring. I can only assume he's referring to the dreams we see of his childhood rape(s) and how scared he was. And that makes me wonder upon this second reading what he believes to be lies about them: maybe the incident(s) didn't happen? Perhaps, but I think it's more likely that he no longer sees himself as being a victim.

There's also a lot of discussion around what makes Rome great and how power is conferred on it's leaders. There's this lovely line where Augustus states that leaders are motivated by dreams.

I think Dream would definitely agree with this statement, and I think we'll see more of he's willing to prove his point in the next issue. The idea is that dreams are powerful motivators. And it's interesting that Caius Augustus Caesar, of all people, is saying that powerful leaders are motivated by dreams...when some folks might suggest that those who gain power might be motivated by desire/lust for power. (cough, Desire, cough)

And he talks a lot about dreams in this issue. There are lots of allusions to them in his figures of speech. For example, he talks about the 2 possible futures of the Roman Empire and how it could expand into lands the Romans have barely Dreamed of. In general, I can see how someone who puts so much faith/power/meaning in dreams might be assisted by Dream himself.

A Day to Live

And Morpheus does help Augustus plan away from the watchful eyes of the gods. He suggests that August take a day every year to not be Emperor.

It's got a nice symmetry with what Death was already doing at the time: taking a day off every century to not be Death. Sure she describes it as experiencing Life, meeting her own self, becoming closer to the beings she is in service of, etc etc. But at it's core, she's take a day to not be herself (at least in part).

And in turn, it also has a nice symmetry with what Morpheus eventually does with Hob: take a day off to essentially not be Dream. In sitting and listening to Hob's stories, the Prince of Stories becomes the listener instead of the storyteller.

So yeah, a jam-packed issue, and I found I enjoyed it a lot more while clue hunting than I did on my first read-through.

[nicolewoo]

Super Earth Part 6: PARTY!!!

Pairing: Roman Reigns X Reader

Warnings: None

I called Carmello “Mello….” I said sweetly to our chef. “Can I call in one of my favors?”

“Yea Cap. What can I do for you?” Carmello wiped his hands before leaning close to his communication pad.  

I hesitated for a second, but Mello owed me a few. “I need your discretion.”

Mello laughed. “Cap you ain’t gotta use a favor for that. I always got your back.”

“Thank you. Now could you cook up a nice dinner for two for me to eat in my room tonight?”

“Ehhhh” he started. “I can’t do that tonight. I’ll be happy to do that tomorrow. I’ll even deliver, but it’s gonna have to be tomorrow.”

I hadn’t expected this. “Umm Why?”

When he spoke again, it was in a whisper. “Cause I got a bunch of people in here decorating. They gonna throw a party for you tonight, so you gotta eat in the mess.”

I held in my disappointment. “Got ya. Ok. I’ll be there. Thanks Mello.” I clicked the com off.

“I’m sorry babe.” Roman said from his place on the bed. He motioned for me to come back to bed.

“There’s still some time before your surprise party. Let’s just relax.”

I curled into his arms. “It’s ridiculous.”

“What is?” Roman asked.

Looking up at him I explained. “I was just doing my job.”

Roman chuckled, “You were a badass today, baby girl. Everyone was scared shitless, and you were calm and cool through the whole thing.”

It was my turn to laugh. “Are you kidding? I was just as scared as everyone else.”

He brushed his hand over my back, “You didn’t sound like it, and that really helped keep everyone calm.”

“It was all an act. No seriously, I was just doing my job.” I protested.

“Well, your job is being a hero.” He kissed the tip of my nose.

I rolled my eyes at him. “Can we just….. talk about something else? Anything else? How are your plants?”

The mess hall looked ridiculous. It was decorated with clothes, and pieces of lab equipment with a string of popcorn. Despite that, I truly appreciated it. Today had been exhausting, which was why I wanted to eat in my room with Roman tonight, but seeing all the trouble everyone had gone to, I appreciated it so much.

The room erupted when they saw me. I motioned for everyone to quiet down. “Ok. OK. Enough. I was just doing my job. I couldn’t have done it without my crew, so how about we celebrate survival rather than me?”

There were boos and nos everywhere, but a sharp, shrill whistle cut through the noise. “Cap, Orange, Jamie, We’ve got a special table for you.” Carmello motioned us over to him.

The crazy decorations extended to our table, a communications pad with a flickering candle on the screen, towels for a tablecloth, one of Dr. Tozawa’s plants as a center piece.…. It was silly, and crazy, and I loved it. Jamie sat to my right and Orange sat to my left. I saw Roman slip into the room. Dr. Lee approached him right away and started talking, presumably about work. I would have preferred to sit with him, but Jamie and Orange always made me laugh.

Mello had cooked up a fine meal…. Chicken, mashed potatoes and green beans. We all loved it. Now that dinner was over, tables and chairs had been pushed out of the way to form a dance floor, and music blared out of a speaker on the wall. People started dancing and laughing and having a great time.

“What the hell?” Commander Ciampa, our third pilot who worked the night shift, came striding into the Mess Hall. “Y’all throwing a party without me?” He snaked his way between dancers to me. “Morning Captain! What are we celebrating?

I started to answer when Dr. Zayne interrupted. “Our Captain here is a bad ass!” As soon as he’d said it, he turned back to the party and danced with Dr. Xion.

I motioned Ciampa to sit. “It’s nothing. We passed through a debris field… a planet or star……”

“You shoulda seen her go!” Orange said. “Impressive flying!”

Carmello came to our table with a full plate of food. “Thanks!” Ciampa ogled the plate hungrily. He took a couple bites before turning to me. “We went through a debris field?”

“Yeah, I’m surprised you didn’t hear it. We hit a few big rocks. Shook the ship pretty bad.” I answered.

Ciampa smiled wide. “No, but my cabin is in the middle of the ship… almost dead center. I bet the sound just didn’t get there. We have any damage?” He picked up a chicken leg and devoured it in an impressive time.

Ciampa’s best friend and chief night engineer Lt. Gargano came in. Ciampa and I waved him to our table.

“This is quite a party” he said as he took his seat. Carmello brought him a plate of food.

Gesturing with a fork full of mashed potatoes, Ciampa answered, “Cap flew us through a debris field while we slept. Did you hear anything?”

“Yeah, of course. There were some pretty loud bangs. Not surprised you slept through it.” Gargano said. “You can sleep through anything. Mello” he turned to the chef “This is money!” He complimented the man.

The party was getting progressively louder as the night went on and more alcohol was consumed. Meanwhile, Orange and I were updating Ciampa and Gargano on the ships systems. Jamie had excused herself right after dinner, because she was scheduled to fly the ship. She’d gotten someone else to sit in the cockpit while she ate.

“Commander Cassidy, Come dance with me.” Dr. Ripley asked, and he followed her to the dance floor, sticking his hands in his pocket and swaying casually to the song.

“Captain!” Dr. Zayne approached me. The obviously drunk doctor offered me his hand, and I took it.

I had expected a calm unexciting dance. Instead, Dr. Zayne spun me around and around and around until I was dizzy. When he stopped, it took a second to gather my wits, and I found myself in front of Roman. The faintest hint of a smile played on his lips.

With the most melodramatic acting I’d seen in years, Dr. Zayne stopped dancing, grabbing his calf as if in pain. “Oh! Oh! I think I just pulled…. An old hockey injury.” He started hobbling to a nearby table. I took one side of him, and Roman took the other. We successfully put him in a chair. “I’m sorry, Captain. Maybe…..” He faked another pain. “Maybe Dr. Reigns should take my place. Grabbing one of my hands and one of Roman’s, Dr. Zayne put Roman’s hand on mine. “Please Dr. Reigns. Can you finish,” He faked another pain “Finish the Captain’s dance? Please?”

I was about ready to bust out laughing at this performance and just how not-subtle this ploy was. Roman was smiling too. “Captain?” he offered me his hand.

We danced for a minute, moving away from the performance Dr. Zayne was putting on. “That was subtle” Roman joked.

I laughed, but I couldn’t help wondering, “Do you think he knows about us?” I felt Roman’s hand twitch around my waist.

He paused a moment. “I don’t think so. I think he is trying to get something going between us.” I quickly scanned the room. More than one set of eyes was trained on us.

“He may not be the only one.” I laughed. Roman looked around too.

“Looks like quite a few people think we should be together. Maybe we can stop hiding.” He cooed down to me.

I shook my head no. “No. Not yet. I want it to look like we are just interested in each other. When we get to the planet, we can ‘start’ dating then.”

“I honestly don’t think anyone would be upset.” Roman didn’t understand how hard it was to get this assignment. He didn’t know all of the internal politics; everything I’d had to go through. I’d been training for this my whole life, studying everything I could get my hands on about space, ships and their systems.  Hell! I knew my way around 5 coolant systems by the time I was 12.

I inhaled deeply, “Please trust me. We can’t come out yet.”

He nodded his agreement before spinning me around once. “If you say so.” He dipped me, and I laughed. When he raised me up again, we were closer than before…. Almost pressed against each other, which I wanted so bad. He licked his lips slowly. “I think maybe I better get back to my lab.” He meant he was ready to be alone with me. “Give me about 20 minutes to water the plants?”

I nodded and he ended our dance, leaving me alone on the dance floor for about a few seconds before Dr. Zayne jumped in. “Feeling better, Dr. Zayne?” I asked.

“Wha….” He started to ask before quickly adding. “Yeah yeah. That’s the darndest thing. Just poof it hurts and poof it’s gone!”

“Amazing” I mused.

Dr. Owens was dancing nearby, “You having fun Captain?”

I nodded, “Yeah, but I’m getting tired. I’ll probably turn in soon.” I said casually.

“I bet you will.” Owens said as he steered his partner away.

These guys were onto us. There was no doubt about it now. I needed to steer them a different direction, so I stayed another ½ hour…. Thinking that giving it more time between my departure and Roman’s would help.  

@mindofasagitarius @lclb13 @serenityfiretrash @lustyromantic @reigns-5sos @bigpsychicbagelauthor @omg-im-such-a-masochist @marlananicole @wickedsunfire @starwithaheart @spookys-girl @pitlissa22 @snowpanda18 @thesamoanqueen @sassginaswanmills

[thelonesomequeen]

The man has a net worth of $110 million. He doesn’t need to play PR games for a check. And this type of thing isn’t going finance a movie either when a script doesn’t even exist yet 🦎/// Yes but he is less and less relevant in Hollywood. His roles are meh he doesn't have Cap to cover for that anymore. He have to stay relevant in the business that is changing to streaming instead of theatrical release. This business always was trashy and now Chris is playing this game hard too. He just get catch cause apparently he can even fake a romans for pics. I don't believe they together. Maybe was are friends but that's doesn't matter. Likes matters lol. Not only for him but others too. That's how agency's gets those less known actors on top lol. It gain traffic and fallows for them. People gets interested in them and that's the pandemic effect. When we all stacked at home that was the only way for them and also people started to pay attention to likes and fallows more (maybe out of boredom). They signed contracts with them so it's in their interest to get them jobs, recognition and higher status in Hollywood. Chris is doing dirty things, stupid Hollywood games. It's just time to accept it and stop baby him. Just watch him burn himself maybe he learn something.

ALL celebrities play PR games to some extent to stay relevant with the public and sometimes studios. But I still don’t think his career is WHY he would be involved with Alba for PR if that’s what’s going on. I just don’t. I’m sorry. 1. It had the potential to backfire BIG TIME by making him another Hollywood cliche. And to a degree, that DID happen. 2. They aren’t in the media together enough for me to be solely convinced this is ONLY PR. The general public isn’t sorting through likes and follows the way fans do to try and connect the two of them together. That’s stan behavior, not public behavior. And they haven’t done a whole lot to gain PUBLIC attention. Gaining fan attention isn’t enough for relevance when we’re a much smaller group of people than a lot of us here on tumblr or LSA would like to believe we are. 3. If he was desperate for public attention, there’s so many better ways PR could have been done. They could have ran with the Sexiest Man Alive title so much further than they did, they could spin ASP to look so much better than it does, the public loves him with Dodger and they could have pushed for more Jinx ads and articles considering he’s a brand ambassador. PR doesn’t have to just be relationship related, and for him, highlighting other parts of his life has always seemed to gain him more favorable public attention. But that’s just my opinion and you’re free to disagree.

Here’s the other piece of the puzzle and I’m just going to say it. If he wants to remain relevant in Hollywood, he just needs to be picking better projects and concentrate on doing better with acting. That’s all there is to it. He’s a mediocre white guy in Hollywood. There’s dozens of those everywhere. He’s very easily replaceable. His acting isn’t strong enough to set him apart from his peers. He’s at an age where the younger, muscly men in Hollywood are going to start taking those “action” type roles (and if they’re new to the industry, they can be paid less) but he’s not growing at the performance rate of his peers or actors that are slightly older than him for more serious roles. If we look outside of Marvel, he hasn’t had very many box offices successes. Knives Out did GREAT, but he was part of an ensemble cast. A cast full of respected actors or those with enough public draw. He didn’t carry that movie on his own. Lightyear didn’t do well with the box office. It was ok, but it wasn’t great. Red One and Ghosted are both streamers that appear questionable in quality. I’m not saying they’ll be bad, but I highly doubt they’ll be scoring Oscar nominations. Pain Hustlers (again, another streamer) I think could go either way depending on how they play out the story line. Studios aren’t going to just look at a celebrity’s PR or who they’re dating. They’re also going to look at what it costs to hire that actor, if their acting chops are up to par on what they need in the movie, and if they can sell tickets based on previous box office numbers. 🦎

[walkswithmyfather]

Psalm 103:19. “The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, And His sovereignty rules over all.”

Genesis 39:2. “The LORD was with Joseph, so he became a successful man. And he was in the house of his master, the Egyptian.”

Genesis 39:21. “But the LORD was with Joseph and extended kindness to him, and gave him favor in the sight of the chief jailer.”

“Piece by Piece” By Charles F. Stanley:  “We may not see the big picture of our life, but God does.”

“Does it sometimes feel as though your life is a mess of scattered puzzle pieces? Each situation seems to be an isolated event with no connection to what happened previously or what could occur in the future. Some pieces are beautiful moments of joy and blessing, but others are dark and painful. Perhaps you wonder why God allows these events or why He doesn’t intervene and relieve your suffering.

We can’t see what the picture will be once the puzzle is assembled, but God knows exactly how to fit everything together. When our situations look hopeless, this is our comfort: that a holy, perfect, all-knowing God is sovereign over everything in our life (Psalm 103:19). Nothing is random or meaningless when we belong to Him.

The story of Joseph is a great example of God’s omnipotent hand working in and through every situation (Gen. 37, 39-50). And by reading it, we learn four essential truths about the Lord and His sovereignty.

God is always with us. Joseph was hated by his 10 older brothers because he was the favorite son. When an opportunity arose to get rid of him, they sold him to a caravan of traders and told their father he’d been killed by a wild animal. This dramatic turn of events could easily have caused Joseph to feel forgotten by God. But throughout his various trials, one thing was constant—“The Lord was with Joseph” (Genesis 39:2, Genesis 39:21). 

Like him, we never walk through any situation alone. At the moment of our salvation, the Holy Spirit comes to live within us and seals us as God’s children (Ephesians 1:13). He’s with us in every circumstance whether we feel His presence or not. This is a truth we can count on because the Lord always keeps His word.

God has a purpose for everything. Joseph was only 17 when his ordeal began, and it didn’t end until he was 30. That’s 13 years of unexplained hardship and suffering, but the Lord knew exactly what was required to prepare Joseph for his future role as governor of Egypt, a position that made him second in authority to Pharaoh. 

What seemed like random and unfair events were the very things the Lord orchestrated to achieve His purpose. He used a father’s favoritism and brothers’ hatred to move Joseph from Canaan to Egypt. As a slave and prisoner, Joseph learned the skills required to wisely rule over a prosperous and powerful nation. God used Pharaoh’s dream and its interpretation not only to rescue His servant from prison but also to provide enough food to preserve a nation and save Joseph’s family from starvation. 

Although the events you experience may not be as dramatic as these, the principle still holds true. The Lord has a divine objective for everything that happens in your life. He’s promised to cause all things to work together for good to those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). You may not see a reason for what He’s doing in your life right now, but you can know this: His purpose is superior to any challenge you face.

God’s perspective is eternal and omniscient. When Joseph looked back at all the difficult events of his life, he assured his brothers of the Lord’s sovereign hand at work—even in their mistreatment of him. (See Genesis 50:20.) But what Joseph couldn’t see was God’s eternal purpose being worked out. Ultimately the hope for all humanity was tied up in these events because Jesus Christ was a descendant of that little group of Hebrews who were transplanted to Egypt and sustained by Joseph.

God is working awesome things of eternal value in our lives, but we can’t always understand, because our perspective is limited. The apostle Paul tells us that “momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison” (2 Corinthians 4:17). When the troubles of this life weigh us down, we need to shift our focus from the temporal to the eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18). 

God’s timing is perfect. Perhaps the most difficult part of Joseph’s troubles was their duration. At one point, after correctly interpreting the cupbearer’s dream, Joseph saw a glimmer of hope and asked to be remembered to Pharaoh. But after two long years, he was still a prisoner. 

Why did God delay Joseph’s release just when he’d begun to hope again? Haven’t we all wondered that at one time or another? It looked as if the Lord was about to intervene, but then nothing happened. It’s easier to bear pain if we know the end is near, but when trials seem endless, we must rely on the wisdom of God’s timing. He knows exactly what He wants to achieve in our life and how long it will take. 

Instead of wrangling with the Lord over which pieces should be in the puzzle, let’s learn to accept that He alone knows how all the events of our life fit together. We can trust Him to choose the right pieces, even the dark ones, and place each one exactly where it needs to be, according to His good purpose.”

[Adapted from the sermon “Walking Through Dark Valleys” by Charles F. Stanley]