#Soma Intimates

[onlinesildamax]

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[qotsaq]

You asked for some soma asks so here's one for you: what are your favorite soma moments?

OH YAY finally soma ask!! I think every soma moment is a loved for me, but here are my favorites:

1. I love all the moments related to their living together. very family and cute atmosphere in every panel of the manga

2. I also really love how SILLY they can be with each other sometimes, even when they have a strong enemy in front of them and the chances of winning are really slim

3. they may be very rude to each other, but there is also room in their relationship for small, pleasant signs of attention and care.

4. I think the episode with the dance in the black blood room does not require any explanation. Romantic, gothic and intimate - all this is in this scene

5. Soul and Maka are very tactile, and even such a gesture as stroking the cheek of his girlfriend meister does not seem to Soul to be something extraordinary

6. it's only one panel but to me it's truly one of the most tender moments between soma. the way she nuzzles into Soul's palm while he's just there is beyond words

7. my heart is literally breaking :((

there is nothing more intimate than trying to understand your partner's interests and passions, even if you know in advance that you have no talent for this.

8. no comment. idk but.. but... sigh just look at them

9. and this moment makes me giggle stupidly and swing my legs

I honestly thought there would be fewer moments but... that's not all

[numbersandstars]

Exaltation Series: Moon in Krittika

An exalted planet means this planet has reached the higher point in its own sky. There, the planet feels free to unleash its power for better... Or worse. The sign where the planet is exalted allows the planet to flourish, as well as the nakshatra where the exaltation degree falls.

Moon Exalted in Krittika

Moon gets exalted at 3° of Taurus which is situated in Krittika nakshatra (Krittika: 26°40 Aries to 10°00 Taurus). Here, the Moon is full of soma, the nectar of immortality. Full of vitality, the Moon has reached an uncommon well-being, which leads to a tremendous charisma and, most importantly, a high dose of desires. Charisma and desires are typical traits of Krittika. Its point of exaltation being in the Taurus part of Krittika, this huge amount of inflamed desires is not perceptible at first. Taurus Krittika natives, especially those with the Moon placed there, will not show the openly Aries-type aggressive and passionate nature of Krittika at first but instead, they will show gentleness, politeness and diplomacy. The Moon full of soma does not need to be violent to get what it wants because the Moon feels SO good. Nothing can resist this charming and attractive Moon here. Krittika is ruled by Agni, the God of fire that sustains life, vitality, health. But Agni is also known for his huge appetite. He possesses 7 tongues and he eats the offerings of the mortals to the Gods. Moon's desires get amplified: love of the material world and luxuries get exacerbated. However, Agni is also the messenger to the Gods hence having two heads, one that looks at the world down there and the heavenly realms. Moon exalted here can offer to the natives a spiritual impulse depending on the rest of the chart. It also shows their capability to adapt themselves in different environments and their ability to communicate well. The Moon is the Queen of your chart, she needs to be surrounded by people and she knows how to gently adapt herself. The interesting part of Krittika is the other co-ruler, who is Kartikeya. Kartikeya has a link with Agni as Agni acted as the incubator during his conception. Kartikeya was not born as a child but as a warrior. He did not wait long to lead the armies to fight powerful enemies. The Moon's emotional strength has reached its peak in Krittika and nothing can stop them: the natives are secretly endowed with a warrior nature. The Moon does not like to be disturbed, the Moon wants peace: the Queen will find associates to get rid of those who dare upset her as well as her loved ones. Agni is fire; Moon is water: Moon's point of exaltation shows the mysterious intimate link between fire and water. The Agnichayana ritual involves a huge fire that brings rain; Kartikeya's conception was supported by both Agni the fire and the waters of Ganges. When the exalted Moon gets afflicted, it ignores the ethics. The desires come before everything else. Agni did not hesitate to pretend to be someone else to seduce the wives of a sage... Self-centeredness of a strong and afflicted exalted Moon can lead to overconfidence. Overconfidence leads to thoughtless actions and multiple disasters. Weak exalted Moon natives (waning Moon) will think twice before taking action and they might feel they are not self-confident enough though. Weak or strong exalted Moon in Krittika natives may deal with phobias, mental health issues and impatience. The queen can quickly feel frustrated and jealous, so, do not bother her... Otherwise, you will be surprised!

[inanaincarneetinsidus]

Shatabhisha, The veiling star 🌟

Shatabhisha or Shatabishak is the 24th nakshatra set entirely in Aquarius Rashi between 6’40 to 20 degrees. Under the rulership of both Rahu, Shatabhisha is the apex of said north node of the Moon and Saturn (Shani), Shatabhisha is the nakshatra that embody the most aquarian qualities.

Shatabhisha translated from Sanskrit means “100 healers” or “100 medicines”. Shatabhisha is the one “possessing a hundred healers”. An alternative name Shatataraka means “possessing a hundred stars”. Therefore, by its many names, we can establish that Shatabhisha relates inherently to the Collective, to groups, associations which are all 11th house and Aquarius subjects. Shatabhisha is the “ability to conceal secrets”, thus is best represented by a circle. The Circle reflects firstly the collective theme of this nakshatra as the circle is made up of numerous points which are all at an equal distance from the origine point, but the circle is also a symbol of containment, of protection. The circle imposes a boundary by its circumference; hence it differentiates what is inside from what is outside, it draws a boundary. The space defined by the limits of the circle is protected, fortified, dissimulated and thus kept secret. The circle also connotes an idea of elitism, discrimination: only those who form a close circle around a person have access to them, are intimate with them. Magic is often performed around a circle, those who have been initiated to the occult form a circle, they are “kept in the secret”. Magical charms can take the round form of the circle, talismans, objects of protection are round: The Evil eye is a round eye. The circle in its harmonious quality represents the infinite world of creation: Time, which is the tool that helps us conceive material reality, is circular. This circular nature of time is reflected in what we experience existing within it: you are born weak and fragile as a baby, then you grow strong, only to rediscover your fragility in old age: Life’s cycle, Life’s circle.

The circle is also a symbol of objectivity and in objectivity you discover the truth. To attain objectivity the circle multiplies the points of views and this addition of all these points of views helps to uncover what is true everywhere for everything. Shatabhisha is “the one who struggles with the truth”. Shatabhisha main concern will be truth, therefore will try to acquire objectivity by looking at every aspect of a situation. Shatabhisha Trimurti is Shiva, dissolution and reflects this concern because to truly discover what is true, you need to dissolve what is illusory, your unbased beliefs about the subject, you need to challenge your opinions to see if they can be transformed into thoughts. In this lunar mansion a lot of transformation occurs on the psychic level.

The deity of Shatabhisha is Varuna, chief of the Asuras. Varuna is the one who “binds the ocean”, he rides Makara which is the mythical crocodile and is the god of the Oceans. Therefore Shatabhisha association with Varuna reveals it’s universal qualities, the Oceans are vast and infinite, Oceans are also wide and profound and reflect The process of introspection. Shatabhisha's stage in life happens after Dhanistha where one enjoyed riches and fame, and is now looking for deeper contentement, that exists outside of material abundance. The figure of the adventurer who takes the sea to find himself might be relevant in this case.

Varuna holds a pot containing Soma, the drink of the god granting them immortality: Soma rejuvenates the body but also intoxicate much like Ambrosia in greek mythology. He also holds medicinal herbs representative of the power of healing of Shatabhisha: "Bheshaja Shakti".

Shatabhisha holds the persuavive power of the media by being the apex of Rahu. The people controlling medias are not in the eye of the public, they stay behind the scenes, dissumalated. Media is based on Maya (illusion) which is the domain of rahu.

[persimmonteas]

companies that consistently donated to trump in 2016, 2020, & 2024

vetted by Snopes

American Securities (Conair and Cuisinart)

Arizona Diamondbacks baseball team (owned by Ken Kendrick, who did donate)

Ashley Furniture

Auto Zone

Cincinnati Financial Insurance

Dean Foods (before it went bankrupt)

Discount Tire

ExxonMobil

Flowers Foods (Wonder Bread)

Hendrick Motorsports

J. M. Smucker Company (Smucker, Folger's and the defunct Big Heart Pet Brands)

Hanes Brands (Hanes, Bali, Leggs, Maidenform, Playtex)

Hobby Lobby

Koch Industries (Vanity Fair Paper Products is owned by Georgia Pacific)

Las Vegas Sands Resorts

Martin's Famous Pastry Shoppe

MolsonCoors (Miller, Milwaukee's Best, Molson, Coors)

Motorola Solutions (Motorola split in two in 2011. Lenovo owns the other half and did not donate.)

MyPillow (owned by Mike Lindell)

Public Storage Self Storage

Publix Super Markets

Roark Capital (Carl's Jr, Hardee's, Arby's, Buffalo Wild Wings, Baskin Robbins, Cinnabon, Schlotzsky's)

Sycamore Partners (Soma Intimates)

Tampa Bay Bucaneers football team (owned by the Glazer family, who did donate)

TRT Holdings (Omni Hotels)

Wynn Resorts

[exciztence]

Mars - Wanting to be loved vs being “repellent” to others or tried to be pinned

As a mar nakshatras are always in this internal battle with having built up cultivating soma and wanting to share as well as not wanting to and keep towards themselves. its no surprise to me that they a pretty reclusive and like to be on its own without out imposed influence. They get burned out very quickly as we start maturing we learn that not everything must be exarberated speraticly. That may be why we like and need exchange where there is mutually exchange and being respected or taken in first. And prefer intimate relationships overtime like Venus. as maybe they always just received the "blows" and life stuff towards us. We come to learn to be more selective. Our nature is gentle soft internally though we not look on the outside. and have to be put in situations, where we are expected or forced to "defend" protect ourselves (being a fighter tho not by choice or want to). We really just want harmony. idk know why but i hate try to be pulled to dog wards instead of God wards. it bothers me to be "forced" or pulled to something i don't want. but i value and know relationships and social is important. May God be with me.

[akemi-simidzucutesworld]

🎀Hello my dears. I decided to write my mini fanfic which is inspired by my headcanons. It's my first time writing such a thing so I accept only mild criticism and there may be mistakes because I'm using a translator.

🥐The Scent of Croissants and Secrets🗝️

The aroma of freshly baked croissants hung heavy in the air, a sweet counterpoint to the subtle, expensive perfume clinging to Maurice. Soma, his eyes crinkled in a smile, watched Maurice carefully arrange the golden pastries on a delicate china plate. Sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating the strands of plum-colored hair that tumbled down Soma’s shoulders, a stark contrast to Maurice’s meticulously styled blonde locks.

"They smell divine, Maurice," Soma murmured, his voice a low rumble. He reached out, a playful glint in his eyes, and gently tugged on a loose strand of Maurice’s hair.

Maurice, ever the picture of refined elegance, swatted Soma’s hand away with a delicate laugh. "Don't muss my hair, Soma. It took ages to perfect this style." He paused, a faint blush rising on his cheeks. "Besides, I made these especially for you."

Soma’s heart swelled. He knew Maurice’s outwardly charming demeanor often masked a calculating mind, but the genuine warmth in his eyes as he spoke of the croissants was undeniable. He remembered the initial shock of discovering Maurice's manipulative nature, the betrayal he felt when he learned of Maurice's actions towards Ciel. Yet, seeing Maurice's vulnerability, his fear of judgment, had only strengthened Soma's affection.

"Thank you, Maurice," Soma said softly, taking a bite of the croissant. The flaky layers melted in his mouth, a symphony of buttery goodness. He closed his eyes, savoring the taste and the quiet intimacy of the moment.

Later that evening, they strolled through the bustling streets of London. Soma, ever thoughtful, had purchased a delicate silk scarf, a vibrant shade of emerald green, for Maurice. Maurice, initially protesting, eventually accepted it with a shy smile.

"It suits you," Soma said, his gaze lingering on Maurice's face. He noticed the faint smudge of lipstick on Soma's cheek, a playful reminder of Maurice's tactile nature. He leaned in, gently wiping it away with his thumb.

"You're always leaving traces of yourself on me," Soma chuckled, his fingers tracing the line of Maurice's jaw.

Maurice's eyes widened slightly, his breath catching in his throat. He met Soma's gaze, his heart pounding a frantic rhythm against his ribs. The streetlights cast long shadows, creating an intimate atmosphere.

"I… I can't help it," Maurice whispered, his voice barely audible. He reached up, his fingers tangling in Soma's long, unruly hair. He gently braided a section, his touch both tender and possessive.

Soma leaned into the touch, his eyes closing contentedly. He knew Maurice's words were more than just a confession of a habit; they were a silent declaration of love. And in that moment, surrounded by the city's vibrant energy, Soma knew he wasn't just sharing croissants and secrets with Maurice; he was sharing a life, a future, a love as sweet and delicate as the scent of freshly baked pastries. He knew, with a certainty that warmed him from the inside out, that their love story was just beginning. He would take Maurice to Bengal one day, introduce him to his family, share the beauty of his homeland with the man who had stolen his heart. And he would cherish every moment, every stolen glance, every shared croissant, until the end of time.

I love my precious boys so much💘

[bcbdrums]

Hi, I know we have quite different oppinions on some SE related things, but thats why I wanted to ask:

I actually really liked the manga Baba Yaga arc. Is your oppinion on it positve too or do you actually think its not as good or atleast weaker than the folowing arcs?

I'm curious on people's oppinions and finding out where the difference of perspectives originate

(Also think the Baba Yaga arc had a very strong SoMa moment with the whole puppet chapter resolution and Maka giving Soul and outstretched hand is an iconic panel to me)

I don't think the manga had a single "weak" arc. The more I pick things apart, the more I'm seeing what masterful storycrafting took place in Soul Eater, which is surely part of why it has such a strong fanbase to this day.

The Baba Yaga arc was fantastic!!! I have not read the manga since January, but I'll try to bullet point some of the key things that make it great.

And I'll preface this all by saying... The manga is divided into two halves, essentially (we know that), and at the end of each half...our main characters reach milestones in their stories and their character development. So it's like...they've all been hopping across stepping stones to reach the other side of the pond, and here they all arrive. And get ready to brave the waves of the next half of the story.

Also, I'm writing this in a way that assumes the reader has read and is intimately familiar with the manga. So I'm not going into detail about things. But anyway...

MAJOR spoilers for Soul Eater manga, if that matters to anyone.

The secondary trio. We get to see ALL of the kids in this arc, and time is spent with each of them; it's not JUST the main meister trio and their weapons, but it's also the secondary trio, and we finally get to know them more deeply as characters! And good heavens is that development ever GOOD! I won't detail it so folks can read it for themselves, but my GOSH was that ever phenomenal!

Minor characters. Eruka, Free, even Giriko, and Mosquito get their moments. And they're not just there to be on the page, they serve an actual purpose. And I felt that Mosquito here became more a genuine threat, less an annoying pest (lol, mosquito). We also get the unexpected introduction of a new enemy in Noah, which was a fabulous twist.

The first major seeds of doubt are sown here with the DWMA's decision making; perhaps they are not the great and wise leaders we've been led to believe? Because going along with Medusa's plan was clearly, clearly unwise. We have this sense the whole time that the effort is doomed simply by nature of...we know the decision was unwise. And with the little hints prior, and with what ultimately comes later regarding the DWMA and their place in the world...it was a fantastic stepping stone along that piece of the plot.

Medusa. The tension of her presence, of her supposedly being their ally. The clear and obvious lie she tells to Maka to gain her cooperation. Her true motives slowly but surely unfolding, and what ultimately happens with her in the end of the arc. It was a brilliant, brilliant play, completely inline with the manipulative character we know and love/hate, and an added level of threat throughout the arc since the point is to stop Arachne. And then to have the true plan revealed in the end... Sheer brilliance.

Black Star and Tsubaki vs Mifune. Another perfect stepping stone in the plot of Black Star's character development, from who he was at the beginning to who he ends up being in the very final chapter of the manga. Tense, powerful, bittersweet... Black Star is arriving here at who he needs to be to truly complete his goal. We see the growth in his words, his actions, and it becomes so important going forward.

Maka and Soul, and the battle against Arachne. Here we get back to the purpose... How was Soul Eater the series introduced? You defeat 99 evil souls and then the soul of a witch. So, we have arrived at last. A battle against a witch. And the themes of trust that were set up in that very first chapter get to shine here with Maka and Soul's growth as a meister/weapon pair. And oh ho HO that payoff... With yet another twist following... Fantastic storytelling!

Kid's sacrifice. Unexpected, heart-pounding, and yet again... A culmination of his growth. Throughout the arc... In his wise decision-making, his battle tactics, and then ultimately his sacrifice... He is stepping out of the...youthful and surface-level obsessiveness that is ultimately part of what is going to make him a great Shinigami someday, and stepping into the beginnings of maturing into that role. No more worrying about the height of picture frames. Only protecting the world, and protecting the ones he loves. It is a powerful, powerful moment in his development.

As I said in the beginning... This is an arrival, for each character. An arrival, and then they get to take a breath before the ultimate battle. Everything about this arc was phenomenal. Each and every character given their due; the pacing; the story itself with all of its frights, twists, and payoffs, and the way it makes the reader think. Truly, truly outstanding!

I know this was a very vague summary and assumes intimate knowledge of the manga, but my gosh... Truly a fabulous arc and I want to go read it again right now.

[flangst]

A list of companies that donated to/support Project 2025

High Lifetime Spend

Cars

Buick

Cadillac

Chevrolet

GMC

Hendrick Motorsports

Home-Goods

Ace Hardware

Ashley Furniture

Dirt Devil

Farberware

George Foreman Grill

Hoover Vacuum

My Pillow

Oreck Vacuums

Stanley Black and Decker Hardware

Stiletto Tools

Toast Master

Electronics

Boost Mobile

Garmin Sports Products

Motorola

Groceries

Chiquita Brands

Dean Foods

Dole Foods

Folgers

Land o’ Lakes

Martins Famous Pastry Shoppes

Purdue Farms

Publix

Smucker’s Products

—

Medium Lifetime Spend

Automotive

ArmorAll

Auto Zone

Discount Tire

NAPA Auto Parts

Shell Oil

Sonoco

Turtle Wax

Travel Services

Allegiant Air

Horizon Bank

Las Vegas Sands

Norwegian Cruise

Omni Hotels

Wynn Resorts

Clothing

Anthropologie

Brooks Shoes

Champ Clothing

Hanes

Marshalls

L.L. Bean (likely just one family member donated)

Leggs Pantyhose

Soma Intimates

TJ Maxx

Urban Outfitters-Free People

Restaurants

Arby’s

Baskin and Robbins

Buffalo Wild Wings

Carls Jr.

Cinnabon

Dairy Queen

McDonald’s

Papa John’s

Schlotzsky’s

Wendy’s

Retail

ACE Hardware

Marshalls

Sierra Trading Post

TJ Max

Walmart

—

Small Lifetime Spend

Underwear

Bali Underwear

Fruit of the Loom

Hanes

Leggs Pantyhose

Maidenform Underwear

Playtex

Soma Intimates

Alcohol

Bacardi

Coors Beer

Grey Goose

Miller Beer

Milwaukee’s Best Beer

Molson Beer

Tito’s Vodka (Tito’s claims they do not support any politician)

Sports Teams

Arizona Diamondbacks

Buffalo Bills

Los Angeles Angels

New Orleans Saints

NY Yankees

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Miscellaneous

1800 Flowers.com

Bausch + Lomb

Big Heart Pet Brands

Fruit Bouquets.com

Harderg Diamonds

Keller Williams Realty

Public Storage

Rail Vac (maybe supposed to be Rayovac?)

The Popcorn Factory

Wow! Cable

Vanity Fair Paper Products

Rental Cars

Alamo Rental Cars

Enterprise Rental Car

[secretturtletim]

Musing over my last post about Soma inviting Arikado to a tamalada, and I can’t stop thinking about Soma telling him to come in something he isn’t afraid to get dirty. Because I wasn’t sure what Arikado would show up in.

He’s clearly perfectly fine fighting monsters in a three piece suit, so he could show up in that, and I don’t think Soma would be surprised. But what if he shows up in jeans and a shirt? What if, because Soma in invited him to something that’s clearly a much more intimate and familial thing, he decided to dress in a way that feels a bit more vulnerable?

Like, you’ve told me that you consider me family, and I want to show you that I feel the same.

It catches Soma off guard at first. It’s just so goddamn weird seeing Arikado dressed so casually, until he realizes that he’s come to his house without his armor. Because he doesn’t need it, and he feels safe, and that gesture maybe reminds a part of his soul of Leon.

And Soma just feels this deep sense of contentment that he can’t totally explain, having Arikado feel that safe with him now.

[santoschristos]

Philosopher’s Stone –

Introduction

So much has been written about the philosopher’s stone, it is understood as being the pinnacle or goal of Alchemy. The following excerpts by Master Samael Aun Weor clearly reveal what the philosopher’s stone in very clear and easily understandable language.

Excerpt 1 – Philosopher’s Stone

“What is the Philosophical Stone? The Philosophical Stone is the Intimate Christ dressed with his bodies of Gold.

This Gold covering, formed by the bodies, is ‘To Soma Heliakon’, the body of Gold of the Solar Man. Whosoever possesses the Philosophical Stone has complete power over all of Nature. Nature knows how to obey such a being. This person possesses the Elixir of Long Life and can keep the physical body for millions of years.

Lo and Behold the path. The path is in the (sexual) seed. There is no other way.

Interesting things take place within the human organism. The existential superior bodies of the Being are nothing more than Mercury fertilized by Sulphur. Gold must then appear in these bodies of Mercury.

But who can settle the atoms of Gold in the Mercury? They can be settled with only one artifice. This artifice is none other than the famous Antimony, the Antimony of Alchemy. In reality, Antimony is a metal which is well known in Chemistry. However, in Alchemy, Antimony is one of the parts of our Being. This part of our Being knows how to settle the Gold in our bodies of Mercury. This is how these bodies of Mercury can be converted into the finest quality bodies of pure Gold.

Whosoever possesses bodies of pure Gold receives the sword of Gold. He or she becomes an Archangel with the finest quality sword of pure Gold, which threateningly turns in every way, throwing strong flames. Such is the sword of the Archangels (Arche-Angels).

It is then worthwhile to settle the atoms of Gold in the Mercury. The whole of this can be achieved with the condition of eliminating the Dry Mercury (ego) and the Arsenic Sulphur (passional fire). If one does not eliminate the Dry Mercury and the Arsenic Sulphur, one simply does not achieve the perfection of the bodies, nor does one make them of the finest quality Gold.

The entire secret of the Great Work then consists of knowing how to make Mercury, how to create the Arche, which is the intimate and particular nebula from where our distinct bodies must emerge.”

Excerpt from the lecture: “The Arche”, by V.M Samael Aun Weor.

Excerpt 2 – Philosopher’s Stone

“However, the metallic Spirit of the Stone, which is the Intimate Christ, can be lost. The metallic Spirit can evaporate. When can this occur? When a metal is melted.

When is it melted? When the Hermes Glass is spilled, then the metallic Spirit is melted. It is the metallic reaction of the Gold. Thus, it is indubitable that the interior Magnesium escapes.

When this occurs, alchemically it is known that the Philosophical Stone is lost, that it has dissolved in the water. Speaking in other words, out of the terms of the Great Work, I will say that this is when the Boddhisattwa falls (fornicates).

In Alchemy, it is said clearly that the Stone is thrown into the water, that it dissolves in the water on Saturday. We must understand that Saturday is Saturn, in other words, the kingdom of death.

Whosoever dissolves his Stone in water loses his Stone.”

Excerpt 3 – Philosopher’s Stone

“Then, in the central plateau of Asia, I committed the error, as did the Count Zanoni. It was the error of taking a wife when it was forbidden for me. I once again threw the Philosophical Stone into the water. Now in this new existence, I performed the Great Work. The resurrection of the Lord will culminate for the third time...for the third time. Thus, I have now performed the work three times. So, this is why I have experience, I know the way...I know the way.

What I wish to say is a great truth. When I elaborated the Philosophical Stone for the first time, on the Moon, the Stone was powerful.

When I elaborated it the second time, it was much stronger. Now that I am elaborating it for the third time, it will be even stronger. This is due to acquired experience.

Within this experience there is an intelligent principle that we must understand. A human can fight a great deal for his transformation in order to reach the union with God. This human progresses until there. However, after a human being reaches the union with God, when God manifests himself in this human, we can say that from here on there is no progress.

If this human being wishes to progress, he must then retrograde, which means to throw the Stone into the water.

What happens to the Stone?

When the Stone re-emerges into life, it emerges much more powerful, more penetrative. It is something extraordinary.

There are Initiates who perform the work seven times. Beyond seven times it is very dangerous because one can fall into damnation.

I have performed it three times, but frankly, I will not make it a fourth. I do not want to expose myself to losing a great amount. However, the three times that I have performed it, the situation has come to me as it must be, extremely painful.

For example, in the central plateau of Asia, when I threw the Stone into the water for the third time, I said to myself, “How I have fought over the centuries in order to raise myself again. What frightful weights, such terrible bitterness!” And only now, after having suffered terribly, tremendously, this Philosophical Stone is again being reborn. In 1978 it will be reborn.

I carried all the history of the Aryan Race in order to raise it again. Therefore, it is extremely painful; it is a very painful process.

There are Adepts who, wanting to make the Stone more penetrative and powerful, intentionally descend. They do not fall, they descend.

How do they descend?

They take a spouse when it is not permitted to them. But they do not ejaculate the seminal liquor (they do not reach the orgasm) and under the direction of a Guru, they work with all the rules of the Arcanum A. Z. F. They then lose the Stone.

After a certain period of time, they give life to the Stone. They perform the great Work so that the Stone will remain much stronger.

It is necessary to establish the difference that exists between falling and descending.

I did not descend. I intentionally fell. My three cases were falls, not descends.

In the central plateau of Asia, I committed the same error as the Count Zanoni. I took a wife. This is the forbidden act which I did. I tell you that after the experience of the centuries, I know that this is how the Great Work is performed.

Let us remember the Phoenix Bird. It is marvellous with its crown of Gold and with its feet and legs of a beautiful pure Gold. Nature surrounded and worshiped it. Tired of living for millions of years, it decided to make a nest with the branches of incense, myrrh, spikenard and other beautiful branches, and the truth is that she burned herself there.

Nature is always like that. But then the Phoenix Bird was reborn from her own ashes, much more powerful.

Likewise, it is necessary to perform the Great Work because when the Stone is thrown into the water, it remains drowned.”

Excerpt from the lecture: “The Arche”, by V.M Samael Aun Weor.

Summary

So in summary, the philosopher’s stone is the universal Christic or life giving principle individualised in us covered with the superior bodies of gold. So it is the result of incarnating the universal life giving Christic principle first, then purifying all of our bodies from their impurities or egos (psychological “I’s”).

Furthermore the philosopher’s stone undergoes much transformation and can be renewed by being dissolved and then built once again, and when reformed or recreated it emerges stronger than before. Esotericism tells us that this can be done only seven times, because if one does this more than seven times one falls under a curse. The philosopher’s stone is also the Phoenix bird. Rising Phoenix --Mahaboka

[ashandquiet]

My Most Unswerving Devotion

Chapter 3: Picnicking and Parties

Regency! Soma Jarlskona x F!Reader

Summary: Since coming to Norfolk to stay with your family, the conversations have all revolved around matrimony. Just when your aunt has found a match for you much to your chagrin, quite by accident you fall for the wealthy Duke of Cambridgeshire; Soma Guthrumsdóttir. Can circumstance truly keep you apart?

A/N: In which our titular heroine joins a picnicking party and gains new friends, information and intrigue abound. Thank you for your patience, I hope I haven't been away too long. :)

Read it on Ao3

The morning before the dreaded picnic, you snuck out in a simple smock of a dress and overcoat at first light. Having woken up incredibly early in a cold sweat an ever-present feeling of unease churning in your stomach.  

You felt sure a walk would clear your head, though you were more than aware of what today meant for you. You would be expected to put on airs and behave the part of a lady most enticed by the prospect of marriage. As if it was something you wanted, to be married to a man. It sickened you, felt like the crushing weight of destiny lay before you, akin to an out-of-control carriage barreling headwards into a collision. You, the unwilling passenger with an indifferent driver and dubious footman. Barrelling ever onwards with locked doors that blocked out your cries for help. 

Feeling quite woozy in the head and sick to your stomach you stopped on the path and sat down in a patch of soft-looking grass. You couldn’t even seem to bring yourself to care that it was still wet with morning dew. 

The brisk morning air washed over you, and your thoughts slipped back through yesterday’s events, and it was as if every fiber of your being could still feel the deft yet temperate hands of the lady gentleman. 

Upon returning to the magnificent manor house after your disastrous encounter in the fields, there was much fuss over your injured wrist and grass-stained dress. You had recounted your tale as clearly as you could in your flustered amorous stupor to your fussing aunt and her maids; yet when it came to the topic of the owner of the handkerchief tied round your wrist, you froze up. You had heard how they gossiped about the Lady Gentlemen that resided in the country, of Soma Guthrumsdóttir and her companions. If they gossiped so fervently about a Duke surely, anything less than that would be such a foul creature of scorn in their eyes. 

So you had lied and stated that it was simply just a gentleman like any other, and when they pressed for a name, well there was no reason to lie, you simply forgot to ask. They dithered on about the joys of a mystery urging you to divulge any details of your supposed rescuer's appearance which you fruitfully ignored. 

 Once your wrist was treated for the soreness and bruising with chilled water and bound in place with bandages, with your head bowed in quiet shame you excused yourself for the evening. 

While heads were turned you glanced at the lace-trimmed handkerchief that lay discarded on the side table.

Acting quickly you snatched it up and disappeared up the stairs to your room. There you had spent the rest of the evening in silent pity, occasionally glancing headlong at the handkerchief that you had neatly folded and placed on the window sill. It was embroidered with primroses of a pale yellow, and in one corner, stitched with a slate blue thread there were the ornate letters “ SG ”. 

You held it now, the delicate fabric worn and so clearly well-loved was soft in your hand. A faint scent of perfume lingered in its threads, delicate like fresh lilacs and something smoky and herbal. Your head swirled with thoughts about the owner's preferred fragrances, and how she would adorn herself and her clothing with them. The embroidered letters brought you a moment of solace, having such a delicate, intimate object with you seemed to provide every comfort in the world. 

Ever so carefully you tucked it away and rose back to your feet, the object's comforting presence enough to urge you forward into the day, fate’s cruel hand shaken from your spirits for just a while.

Returning to the manor house you dressed, with some assistance, in a simple country frock and tied a long white ribbon in your hair, swatting away the hands of the maids who attempted to even out the ribbons' tails. You even refused to acknowledge the looks from your aunt as you strode past her with a book in hand. 

“You truly mustn't dress so plainly dearest, you’ll want to make a good impression!” She cried in vain as you walked out to the carriage, barely lifting your dress from the ground. 

 “Oh come come, my Love,” your uncle laughed heartily as he followed behind you beckoning for his wife. “It's a glorious summer day, let us enjoy the picnic, she has no need to be weighed down by frills.” 

Your uncle smiled and offered a kind wink in your direction as you climbed aboard the carriage. 

With a sidelong glance at your injured wrist he chuckled, “Perhaps, she should dress plainly to prevent another tumble.”

You huffed lightly sitting, laying the novel on your lap, and resting your injured wrist on its leather cover. You refused to glance your aunt’s way as she boarded the carriage and sat across from you. 

“My dearest niece, how can you expect to find time to read when there are such friends to be met today,” She chortled, glancing from the book to your face. 

“Perhaps dear Aunt, I have no intentions of meeting friends today, when there is such knowledge and friends to be met in a book,” You replied and glanced out over the front gardens. 

Your aunt bristled and shook her head indignantly, surely preparing to snap back about an attitude most unbecoming of a lady, but uncle swooped to your rescue. He sat and commanded his driver to go, grabbing his wife’s hand in a shushing motion. 

“It is a beautiful day in July, let us enjoy it how we please, and if our niece would like to spend it with a book, then that shall be her day,” He said in a firm and commanding tone, yet his spirits were light and he smiled happily to himself as if pleased with his proclamation. 

The carriage ride was a jolting one, winding down from the manor into the parsonage beyond the grand estate. The picnic was to be held in the shade of a beautiful apple orchard belonging to the parish that your uncle presided over. When united with the larger group he chatted gayly with the men of the party about how he was glad to have leased it so long to a family of tenant farmers known as the Grants. 

His prattling seemed like nothing but noise to you, but all the men nodded and chided along in agreement and admiration. Yet the chatter of the ladies as they talked of fortunes and matches made for ladies of the gentry, seemed even more foreign to you still. 

You strode away from the group to better grasp your surroundings, looking for a comfortable place to sit just close enough to avoid scoldings, but far enough for a moment of blissful peace. 

A low-hanging apple tree dense with young fruit seemed to call to you, its drooping bower a welcoming shield from the sun. Just as you were about to make your escape, there was a great commotion from the group. Turning around, you took stock of the situation. A young man, who looked to be no older than five and twenty sat atop a dusty-looking yellow horse that danced about on its hooves. He was dressed plainly in an olive green tailcoat, and he held his riding hat in his hand as a much older man attempted to catch the reins of the young horse.

“Hold the bloody bastard still Oswald!” The older man growled, his accent was Scandinavian in origin. Perhaps he was the younger man’s steward. 

“I’m trying-” the young man, Oswald said as yanked the reins firm to his body. Patting the horse’s neck with his hand and drawing circles into its sweated fur. “Easy Diamond- Woah… there-there boy, that’s a good horse…” 

With the yellow horse calmed he was able to dismount. While handing the reins to his steward he replaced his hat on his mess of golden curls. You watched him intently as he strode over to the rest of the picnicking party. Not so much confidently as ungainly, perhaps wobbly from the ride. The women inclined their heads to him and he gave each a polite nod and a “Hello”, the men greeted him with smiles and pats on the back. 

Just as you were sure the conversation would turn to his deft riding skill and congratulations on taming such a riled-up horse, your aunt called out; “Oh (Y/N), come here dearest! Where did that girl go?”

For a moment you debated running, you glanced at the path between the trees, where the orchard gave way to meadows, and meadows to hills and streams. But the thought of obligation and strong wrestling feeling of guilt drew you back. Running would accomplish nothing, tarnish your name, and destroy whatever small holding in society you may have now. So you turned round and made your way over to the party at your own snail's pace.

“Oh, there she is!” Your aunt cried and made her way to your side grabbing your arm firmly, if not too roughly. “Now come come dearest niece you must meet Mr. Egerton, for he has ridden all this way to meet you .”

You bristled at the way she crooned out the last word, seeming to drip with ever the slightest it of disdain. You watched as Mr. Oswald Egerton turned his full attention to you, scrutinizing your every step, his neutral expression turned to what you hoped was a kind smile. He had the kind of eyes that seemed to expose his every thought and feeling. You dreaded the introduction but you knew, he was your intended suitor. He was on the shorter side, nothing about him was too handsome, and he appeared to be perfectly safe, if not a little plain. He gave a polite bow in your direction, and you couldn’t help but feel the slightest bit smug that even in your poor fashions you had still managed to out-dress a gentleman.

“My niece, Miss (Y/N) (S/N),” Your aunt introduced you, and you gave a polite smile and nod. You hoped the smile didn’t look too forced.

“A pleasure to meet you Miss (S/N),” Oswald smiled kindly.

“Likewise sir,” You chided crossing your arms behind your back to hide your book and injured wrist.

There was an awkward silence that was quickly broken by one of the men, “Mr. Egerton, say how is your estate at Elmenham? I hope your tenant farmers are doing quite well.”

“Oh yes, quite well indeed,” Oswald nodded. “Everyone is doing quite well this season. But I can’t say the success is all mine, Finnr has been working himself to the bone keeping everything in order.”

The steward, Finnr waved his hand towards the younger man in a motion of dismissal with a grunt as he plucked an apple from the branch of a tree. He was a much older and gruff-looking man dressed in almost out-of-date fashions of the 1780s, his hair greyed and long. His facial hair was almost too long to be considered proper for a man of society, but perhaps the Scandinavian fashion was different. 

You found yourself pondering the details of the lands across the sea, you had read somewhere about how Sweden once had a girl king who had refused to marry. Much like the lady gentlemen that now populated the country. Perhaps soon the whole of society would be populated with them, women holding positions of power and dressing like gentlemen, marrying women. You blushed at the thought, the feeling of butterflies in your stomach returning. 

“Um, Hello…?” an apprehensive voice tore you from your thoughts and you jumped slightly. Oswald was standing to your left a small awkward smile on his face that morphed into one of concern.

“Are you quite alright Miss (S/N)?” He asked kindly.  

You shook your head to dismiss your thoughts of women in waistcoats and breeches, “Yes I’m alright sir I appreciate your concern,” you tried not to sound indifferent to him, as he had been kind thus far.

He offered his hand palm up, “If you would be so willing, would you join me for a walk about the orchards?”

His smile was inelegant, brows knit with unease, and his hand trembled. You regarded it for a moment and spared a glance to your aunt and the other ladies. They stared hungrily at your hands like wolves regarding a sickly lamb. Minds likely swirling with tales of success to gloat about for hours, to talk of nothing but fortunes and houses, your potential bride clothes, and where you'd buy them.  Feeling the weight of consequence you nodded with an inaudible sigh and offered the coltish gentleman your arm. 

Oswald took your arm in his and you began to feel ill, it wasn’t that he was terrible to look at but the thought of any prolonged amount of time with the man sickened you. 

He did not tug you forward so much as he suggested a slow and delicate gait, and you followed his lead to appease the party of older women who cooed about the match made between you two. Together you walked paces out of earshot of the ladies and he withdrew his arm from yours with a polite yet awkward smile. You paused but happily accepted the respite from his touch.

“Um,” he began. “You see, it is not that I wish to lead you on, or to let you down per se, but I am- have had, my eye on another young lady for some time.”

You paused and looked at him, “You have? Then why… why would you entertain the idea of coming to the picnic?” 

Oswald’s face reddened and he fixed his collar walking ahead two paces, “Well you see, it is that the young lady was in an unwilling entanglement back in Denmark, before her brothers and she came to England at the behest of their cousin. And our amour is quite secret…”

You followed him resting your injured hand against your back, turning ideas over in your head, “So because it is secret, you must keep up appearances?”

He grinned sheepishly back at you, “Precisely, I planned to formally propose but I doubt her brothers would grant a blessing of the marriage. So to maintain appearances I entertain the whims of my patron until I can secure a firm answer. I had hoped, when I noticed your apprehension that perhaps you weren’t enthusiastic about the match as well…?”

You fought to hold in a snort of laughter, “No,” barely containing your smile you shook your head. “I had no interest in this match. No interest in any match that is.”

“Thank heavens,” Oswald let out a visible sigh, his shoulders relaxing and he touched his chest as if calming his heart. “I mean no offense of course Miss (S/N).”

You waved your hand at him lightly, “I take no offense, sir, you're quite alright.”

He smiled, “Perhaps we can be friends, I could help you avoid potential matches, and perchance, you could help me woo my lady?”

You strode ahead of him to gaze at the clover buds blooming in the grass. He made a good offer, friendship in exchange for matrimony. He was a young gentleman with an estate, and he likely had resources, resources enough to help you find the lady gentleman.

“I would like that, perhaps,” You tried turning towards him. “In exchange for helping you woo your paramour, you could help me with something.”

“Well of course! What can I do for you Miss (S/N)?” 

“I need your help finding a particular gentleman,” You said pulling the handkerchief from your pocket with a smile. 

ꕥ

You regaled Oswald as you walked about the orchard with the story of the lady gentleman and your romp in the fields that caused your injury. He made no attempt to interrupt your tale listening heartily his brows knit together quizzicakly. When you finished your tale you offered the handkerchief his way so he could examine the details of the embroidery. 

“Well this is quite the conundrum,” Oswald puzzled brushing a thumb over the lettering before handing the handkerchief back your way. “The countryside is quite literally crawling with these Lady Gentlemen.”

You bristled feeling indignant, “You all keep saying that, as if they are mice. I have yet to see more than one. If the countryside was crawling with them you would think I would see more.”

Oswald laughed an awkward boyish laugh, “Perhaps you are right, but there are a noteworthy few. Most likely you have encountered a friend of the Duke of Cambridgeshire, her estate is near here, no more than a two-hours ride on horseback. I will see what I can learn for you (Y/N).”

You took back the handkerchief tucking it away in your dress pocket, nodding thanks. Perhaps if Oswald was successful in his promise, you could learn the name of your elusive savior who ceased to escape your thoughts. 

“So,” Oswald drew out awkwardly. “You enjoy the writings of Sappho?”

You turned to him flushed with embarrassment and indignation, you had yet to voice this to anyone but the fatted and lazy tabby tom cat that patrolled the kitchens who seemed to only care that you were a human, and humans bring food from the heavens to fatten his belly further. And a cat, could not go about spouting to others about how you would rather divine kisses from the lips of another woman. Yet you supposed if he trusted you with his secret perhaps you could allow him this one of yours.

“And if I do?” You countered a bit more snippily than you originally intended which caused you to wince.

Oswald raised a hand in a show of submission, “Not to worry, your secret is safe with me. I am a friend of a lady who also prefers the company of other women, though I doubt she is the woman you encountered, she’s blonde. And I wouldn’t always count her among gentlemen, or women for that matter, but she is a friend of a great many other lady gentlemen.”

You couldn’t help yourself from smiling, “Is it possible that she might know who it is that helped me then? Your friend?”

“Oh, Eivor? Yes, I will write to her as soon as I return to Elmenham,” Oswald smiled and offered you his arm again. “Shall we return to the picnicking party?”

“If we don’t soon I fear they’ll have too many scandalous ideas swirling about their heads to even function,” You quipped taking his arm. 

Oswald laughed and led you back through the orchard to the picnic. When you neared the party you were surprised to see a tall black horse had joined Oswald and Finnr’s horses that grazed lazily about in the orchard grasses. Another individual had joined the picnicking party and was heartily regaling the group. 

As you approached you could see that the person was a lady gentleman. You felt your heart quicken at the possibility of it being your savior. But when she turned to face you and Oswald you could see that wasn’t her, this one was tall, her voice jolly and light, and she had a joyous smile that reached from ear to ear. Her dark hair was pulled back in a tight bun and she was dressed smartly in an all-black gentleman’s suit, similar to the other lady gentleman you had encountered yesterday. 

You came to stand near your uncle letting go of Oswald’s arm and avoiding your aunt's gaze.

“... we would happily receive you all in a week's time for a masquerade ball,” the Lady Gentleman finished speaking and beamed her eyes landing on you in particular. You could tell she was being sly as her eyes flicked from your face and down your body making you blush hotly. 

She smiled and winked before waving, “I bid you all good day!”

The group exploded into whispers and exclamations of joy, the prospect of a private ball was all enticing, yet you had arrived too late to receive the name of your hosts. 

“Uncle,” you tapped his arm lightly to draw his attention. “Who will be hosting?”

Your uncle folded his hands neatly against his lap and smiled, “Why Soma Guthrumsdóttir, the Duke of Cambridgeshire.”

[blackbutler-readerinsertsandjunk]

FLYING INTO THE ASK BOX to send love!! Welcome back!!! I don’t have anything in particular to ask but if you have any Cheslock thoughts you haven’t shared yet? The more specific the better!!

aaaaaa of course!! I may or may not have mentioned some of these in passing before, but! <3

He keeps it hidden, but he has one tattoo; a music note on his ankle. Even though it hurt like hell to get one in that specific spot, he thinks it’s worth it. He got it there so that it would be easy to hide, and it’s also easy to flash it when he’s alone with people who aren’t judgmental. He definitely wants to get another one someday… he’s for sure open to suggestions, particularly from his S/O!

Although he loves all instruments equally, he does play favorites. He has a tendency toward those which are only played with the hands; that’s why he gravitates toward the violin and piano. Strings are what he likes most, because it allows him to use his fingers in a way that can look wild. People should watch him play a harp sometime. Honestly, he just likes to be moving while he plays, which is harder to do when he’s concentrating on both his hands and his mouth as with a flute or trumpet. … Of course, that’s not to say he can’t do it. He absolutely can. His only lament is that he can’t dance while playing piano!

He doesn’t like doing it… however, he will take his hair down for his S/O. It just makes him feel quite vulnerable, so he doesn’t do it often. As far as he’s concerned, looking menacing is something that keeps people from messing with him. If you look like a cactus, no one is going to want to smack you. If they do, they’ll end up with thorns in their hand, after all. Allowing his hair to come out of its spiked style and rest over his shoulders is one of the most intimate things he can let his S/O see.

Does he hate flirtation cards? Yes. Does he use them anyway? Also yes. He doesn’t think he’s any good at romantic things on his own, so he has to have some help. If flirtation cards exist, the people who wrote them want them to be used, right? Of course, it often ends up that he gets so frustrated reading off these damn things, because as romantic as the words are, they don’t feel like him. And he’s pretty sure that if someone wants to be with him, they should want to be with him for who he is. So he usually winds up throwing the cards after trying them and doing his best to come up with his own words.

In addition to Edward, Cheslock is pretty good friends with the other F5 boys. It helps that Soma is there, because he’s the glue that holds the group together. He’s everybody’s friend, so he’s good at finding things for everyone to bond over. Cheslock likes talking to him about the henna that he sometimes wears, and he’s definitely had Soma try it on him, only to exclaim, “Fuckin’ unreal!” the first time the henna tattoo took form. (It doesn’t last, sadly, but he still loves doing it.) Cheslock talks to Joanne about music books, as well as he helps Joanne learn how to better project his voice and practice some of the bolder dance moves that Joanne struggles with. And while Cheslock is by no means unintelligent, he does ask Clayton for help with certain subjects from time to time, and in return, Cheslock (begrudgingly) does little errands for Clayton. They’re all rather tight-knit as a group of friends, and that’s just the way Cheslock likes it. He sort of feels like now he has people he can count on, who aren’t just looking to get something from him.

Put him with his S/O, and he’s a big spoon who likes to cling to them. Sleeping by himself? Total spider position, limbs all over the place, taking up the entire Goddamn bed. Though, he doesn’t snore as bad as you might think unless he’s lying on his back by himself. Good for his partner, at least.

He definitely has a weakness for sweet, cute things, and he hates it because his friends tease him. At least he teases them back, though! It’s nothing too bad, mostly that he just… goes sparkly-eyed if he sees, say, an adorably decorated cake or a beautiful girl in a ruffly Lolita dress. He just can’t help it!!

[wobinofylisse]

"I started thinking about all the things I was going to do. I'd never been more excited to be alive! All that hope... wasted."

Soma has been on my mind recently. I often wonder if I'll find something as thought provoking and intimately crafted as Soma again.

Anyways, I did this since I couldn't sleep and it was a way to do something creative.

Get Soma if you'd like, it's $30 and I'm sure it goes on sale every now and then. It's made by Frictional who is behind the Amnesia series.

[kikorenart]

WAYWARD COMPASS - PART ONE - CHAPTER ONE

[Soma(OC) x Anders(OC) Genshin Impact Original Fic]

Written by @kikorenart & @drawlypsy

Summary: Soma Amachidame; heir apparent to the Amachidame Clan of Watatsumi Jima has spent years wandering from city to city in Teyvat for one purpose - to rise beyond his means and reunite with his little sister. His next stop; Sumeru where the Akademiya and prestige awaits.

It’s only a shame he has a proclivity for getting lost.

Rating: Explicit

Tags: original character(s), slow burn, m/m, f/f, blood and violence, smut, Inazuma lore, Fontaine lore, video game mechanics

Notes: comin’ atcha hot with a brand spankin’ new (pre-written) original story that I’ve co-written with Psy for the last ten months or so. Updates will come twice a week on Sundays and Wednesdays and will be primarily found on AO3.

CHAPTER ONE - Taking a Wrong Turn

He stood on the deck of that ship until the last shred of light left along the horizon. The lanterns on the beach were his only indicator that Watatsumi was there at all, disappearing below the waves as if no more than flotsam on the tide. Soma watched until his eyes ached from the salt air and the whipping wind casting strength into the sails of the Crux. This massive ship was bound for Liyue’s main port, a place so far away it seemed unfathomable. Yet as he drifted further from the only home he’d ever known, he felt the tether in his chest tighten with sharp agony.

Kiyo was on those shores.

He hadn’t been able to speak to her just before he left. The aunts and uncles forbade any final farewell; vindictive to the very last, it would seem. They did not know that he had already sat with Kiyo in secret and told her the whole of his plans the night before;

“Can’t we go together, Nii-sama?” She had implored, and for the life of him he could not remember the reason why as he gazed down at her forlorn tears.

“Would if I could.” He replied softly, committing her face to memory on that moonless night. “There are many things I must prepare beforehand. I cannot let you come from nothing. Be brave for me, sister.”

For a girl of nine, Kiyo peered through her gold eyes with far too much intelligence alongside the compassion she held - a burden she carried for her brother and his ambition. It took only moments for Soma’s little sister to quiet her sadness, and with great hesitance that he felt in her small fingers, let his hand go with a bow of her head.

“I will.” She nodded then, “I’ll-…miss you.”

There is a crack in Soma’s heart at this goodbye, and it widens at the resignation in Kiyo’s face for letting him go. It bid him to lean down and gently cup her little face in his hands.

“I’ll be quick as lightning,” He smiled, “-I’ll write often. We’ll be together again soon, Kiyo. I promise.”

————

Soma kept his promises to his sister, no matter how impossible they seemed. He would return for her. This he vowed upon the vision glowing at his neck, the only light in the dark and storming sea beyond Inazuma’s isolated shores.

‘Be brave, and wait for me.’

Six long years. It felt like all would be achieved in those first few weeks of Soma’s arrival at the city of Freedom. He had found a way to ingratiate himself almost immediately with the Favonius Knights. Swordsmanship was a skill he had cultivated nearly from his infancy, but his scribe work seemed more interesting to the likes of Varka and the Acting Grand Master Jean.

It had at least provided ample time to write letters back to Inazuma, one after the other for every new venture. Soma took it upon himself to learn everything he could about the native culture of the land he wandered into after a lengthy stay at Liyue harbor and an arduous trek through Dihua Marsh. He became intimately acquainted with the language, the food, and ultimately the local companionship. Something to pass the time while he worked his way from a lowly clerk to something more akin to a secretarial position of authority. This had paid off handsomely, in the end, with a recommendation to the hallowed halls of the Akademiya - a full-throated Favonian referral to become one of their students with a former valedictorian’s blessing.

Lisa had been instrumental in his progression professionally and personally. He could have sworn he found in her a like-minded electro user who saw the benefits of scholarship along with its pitfalls. Someone like him could be blinded by ambition if he wasn’t careful, since there were more than enough temptations put in his way. She helped to smooth the track forward without leading him astray, and for that Soma was immensely grateful. Lisa was not his only companion, though.

The red-haired Master Diluc had bid him a terse farewell as he packed his bags once again for Sumeru City. It wasn’t a tearful goodbye so much as a silent understanding they’d gone the extent of what their relationship could allow. There were no promises made, and Soma had preferred it that way. Much like with Lisa, Soma did not allow his sentiments to hamper the blade-like focus on the horizon. Set roots. Rise. Then, and only then would he have the foundations he needed to fetch his other half at last. She would rise, too.

All this could finally begin in Sumeru City.

How curious though, that I am now two days overdue my estimated arrival…

Had I made a wrong turn?

It was a rain-soaked night when he finally made it to the misty docks of Fontaine. The city was sprawling, half underwater and made of unforgiving stone. A desolate place teeming with people that were practically stacked atop one another - an existence he could hardly contemplate for how sprawling Watatsumi Island had been. From the slums to the dockside to the upper class neighborhoods of austere and stately homes, there was nothing that escaped the heavy feeling of damp and oppressive modernity.

Gone were the gay and bright windmills of Mondstadt, whose sun-kissed stones were a brighter gray like the foundations of a smile. This was a wholly different kind of city, which lacked any freedoms. Shackles came to his mind as he stood watching a stooped group of beggars by the side street, huddled around a can that acted as their hearth. They roasted pieces of scrap meat over it, as if it could do something to lift the plague stench from the vittles they’d found in the garbage nearby.

A vagrant woman met his eyes as he walked past her swaying form. Soma caught the stench of a whole surgeon’s facility full of rubbing alcohol, but not the clean kind. The fetid kind, that sharply reproached the senses with a vile stab up the nostrils. He tried his best to master his expression as she smiled at him, toothless, and began to babble about pearls and rings. A merry diddy she sang as she swirled down the alley with what he could only assume was formaldehyde in her system.

I have surely made a wrong turn, or two.

——————

THE REST OF THE CHAPTER CAN BE FOUND ON AO3 HERE

[innervoiceartblog]

"Usually when we speak about the “others” in our lives, we are referring to those on the outside who we are in relationship with, that we care about, that matter to us.

It’s important to attune to them and to what it’s like for them - to see the way they see, feel they way they feel, listen to what keeps them up at night, and what opens their hearts.

While we each bring our own unlived life into the psychic space where our subjectivities intersect, there is also a third thing, the field itself, that has its own autonomy and intelligence, and is an equal partner in the relationship.

Whether we call this the interactive field, the analytical third, or the mystery of the Friend, this one is there with us in the liminal in-between.

This is the realm of Hermes, the one who guides the alchemist in her work, which is one of devotion and love – love of the materials in the vessel, and of the vessel itself.

In addition to the external other, there is also an “other” who is moving inside us, an unknown piece of soul who has become split off from the totality. Just like the external others, these ones also long to be known, held, and loved.

They are shape-shifters and will manifest in an infinite number forms – as vivid emotions, dream images, somatic tenderness, even as color, music, and poetry as they seek us as a vessel in which they can come alive.

In this way, relational alchemy, unfolds not only with an external other but simultaneously with the dissociated figures of psyche and soma, who carry light-pieces of our wholeness and essence.

It is to the degree we are able to empathically attune, listen to, feel, sense, and hold the emerging inner Other that we will be able to truly accompany those in our lives.

If we’re not able to attend with devotion to the inner darkness, chaos, and contradiction, we will never be able to practice intimacy with these same qualities as they inevitably emerge in our most intimate relationships."

~ Matt Licata

Photo by Pietro Merola