#a storm foretold

[dontmeantobepoliticalbut]

Roger Stone has contested Mediaite’s reporting this week regarding comments he made on tape floating the assassination of two members of Congress.

“I never spoke about assassinating anyone,” Stone wrote in an X post Thursday. “Fake Mediaite can’t produce the recording they claim to have.” In another post he wrote that Mediaite “has produced NO audio of me threatening 2 Dem Congressmen. Where is it? Post it !”

Mediaite is now publishing an excerpt of the audio, which was recorded in person at Caffe Europa, a public restaurant in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, weeks before the 2020 election. It has been lightly edited in order to protect our source, who requested anonymity out of fear of repercussions from Stone, whom they believe to be dangerous.

“Roger spent election day and the months prior calling for acts of violence,” the source told Mediaite.

The conversation, which can be heard above, was between Stone and his associate Sal Greco, who at the time served as both an NYPD officer and security for the longtime political operative and confidant to Donald Trump. During the discussion, Stone speaks with Greco about assassinating two prominent House Democrats, Jerry Nadler and Eric Swalwell.

“It’s time to do it,” Stone told Greco. “Let’s go find Swalwell. It’s time to do it. Then we’ll see how brave the rest of them are. It’s time to do it. It’s either Swalwell or Nadler has to die before the election. They need to get the message. Let’s go find Swalwell and get this over with. I’m just not putting up with this shit anymore.”

The source previously told Mediaite that they believed Stone was not joking around. “It was definitely concerning that he was constantly planning violence with an NYPD officer and other militia groups,” the source said.

In addition to his posts on X, Stone previously denied making the comments in a statement to Mediaite. “Total nonsense,” he said. “I’ve never said anything of the kind more AI manipulation. You asked me to respond to audios that you don’t let me hear and you don’t identify a source for. Absurd.”

Greco did not deny the claims, writing in a text to Mediaite, “I don’t think your reader is interested in ancient political fodder.”

Mediaite’s source dismissed Stone’s claims the audio was fake. The source pointed to Stone’s past comments apparently calling for violence that were caught on video by a documentary crew which he later claimed were “deep fakes.”

“Any attempts to claim this was AI or recently created would be false,” the source said. “Roger spent election day and the months prior calling for acts of violence, which can be seen on video in the film A Storm Foretold.”

The 2023 documentary followed Stone as he participated in the “Stop The Steal” movement that erupted after Trump’s loss in the 2020 election. The movement reached its bloody apogee when a horde of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021 to protest the certification of the election. Some of the film’s footage was provided to the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6 attack. In one harrowing clip, Stone said, “Fuck the voting, let’s get right to the violence. Shoot to kill.”

Stone claimed the videos were “deep fakes.”

Both Swalwell and Nadler serve on the House Judiciary Committee and have their own histories with Stone, who was convicted of federal crimes in Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s Russia investigation. His sentence was commuted by then-President Trump days before he was set to report to prison.

A few months before the Caffe Europa audio was recorded, Nadler announced the Judiciary Committee would be investigating why Stone’s sentence was commuted by Trump.

Greco, who was with Stone during the Jan. 6 riot, was eventually fired by the NYPD over his association with the infamous political operative. An NYPD spokesperson confirmed to Mediaite that Greco was terminated in August 2022.

Last week, Mediaite reported on another recording in which Stone told Greco to “abduct” and “punish” Aaron Zelinsky, the prosecutor who led the case against him as part of the Mueller probe.

[haute-lifestyle-com]

Abramorama announced they have acquired North American theatrical distribution rights for the feature-length documentary A Storm Foretold, a behind the scenes portrait with Roger Stone, directed by Christoffer Guldbrandsen.

[mcytblrconfessions]

THIS JUST IN

We're receiving reports that a new fad is taking the nation by storm

Its name? JORTS.

But it appears as if this breakthrough in jean-short splicing technology is causing irregular weather patterns all across the globe.

It's the warmest season so I can't wear jeans

I REALLY like the denim, but not the length of the seam

My mom dresses cas and my dad likes to preen

I'm not like either of them

I GOT THE RECESSIVE GENE

JORT STORM

JORT STORMS COMIN' TONIGHT

A JORT STORM

IT'S A CATEGORY 5

JORT STORM

JORT STORMS COMIN' TONIGHT

I SAID A JORT STORMS COMING SO RUN AND HIDE

JORTICANE

JORTNADO

JORTNAMI

JORTQUAKE

JORTRUPTION

JORTALANCHE

JORTPOCALYPSE

Jort storm's comin'

(JORTS )

So you better start runnin'

Fast, it's a chase 🗣️

But be careful 'cause these jorts will chafe you YEA

They're the new sensation

(JORTS )

Wear 'em to every occasion

Jorts in the pool

Oh, even better, wear 'em to a funeral, yeah

(J-J-J-J-J-JORTS )

My personality is 99% jorts

I got a genetic test. BUT ALL MY GENES WERE SHORTS

JORT STORM

JORT STORMS COMIN' TONIGHT

A JORT STORM

IT'S A CATEGORY 5

JORT STORM

JORT STORMS COMIN' TONIGHT

I TAKE OFF MY FUCKING JORTS I GOT-A JORTS INSIDE

BREAKING NEWS

Millions of Americans are being sucked directly into the Jortex

And it's headed straight for this studio

To my wife, Cheryl, and son, Timmy

I love yAAAAAA

(JORTS )

The elders foretold

Of a fashion so bold,,,,,,,,,,,

A new god of the earth (JORT-THULHU )

Seal it in denim and turn it into JEARTH

Amazing kazoo solo

[brother-emperors]

ANTONY cry 'havoc,' and let slip the dogs of war

earlier in my script (which is not Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar), Antony refers to Dolabella as one of his ‘dogs of war’ when talking to Cassius (which IS a reference to Shakespeare’s JC), and it comes back around after Cicero writes to Cassius and informs him of Trebonius’ fate

While these things were taking place at Rome, Cassius and Brutus were collecting troops and money, and Trebonius, governor of the province of Asia, was fortifying his towns for them. [...] Trebonius, who was captured in bed, told his captors to lead the way to Dolabella, saying that he was willing to follow them. One of the centurions answered him facetiously, "Go where you please, but you must leave your head behind here, for we are ordered to bring your head, not yourself." With these words the centurion immediately cut off his head, and early in the morning Dolabella ordered it to be displayed on the praetor's chair where Trebonius was accustomed to transact public business. Since Trebonius had participated in the murder of Caesar by detaining Antony in conversation at the door of the Senate-house while the others killed him, the soldiers and camp-followers fell upon the rest of his body with fury and treated it with every kind of indignity. They rolled his head from one to another in sport along the city pavements like a ball till it was completely crushed. This was the first of the murderers who received the meed of his crime, and thus vengeance overtook him.

App. Civil Wars III. 26

For Dolabella is in Syria, and, as you have foreseen in your prophetic soul and have foretold, Cassius will crush him while they are on their way. For Dolabella has had the gates of Antioch shut in his face and got a good beating in trying to storm it. Not trusting in any other city, he has betaken himself to Laodicea, on the sea-coast of Syria. There I hope he will speedily pay the penalty of his crime: for he has no place of refuge, nor will he much longer be able there to stand out against an army as large as that of Cassius. I even hope that Dolabella has by this time been overpowered and crushed.

Cic. Fam. 12.14

Place then before your eyes, O conscript fathers, that spectacle, miserable indeed, and tearful, but still indispensable to rouse your minds properly: the nocturnal attack upon the most beautiful city in Asia; the irruption of armed men into Trebonius’s house, when that unhappy man saw the swords of the robbers before he heard what was the matter; the entrance of Dolabella, raging,—his ill-omened voice, and infamous countenance,—the chains, the scourges, the rack, the armourer who was both torturer and executioner; all which they say that the unhappy Trebonius endured with great fortitude. A great praise, and in my opinion indeed the greatest of all, for it is the part of a wise man to resolve beforehand that whatever can happen to a brave man is to be endured with patience if it should happen.

Cicero, Philippic 11

Philippi and Perusia, Ronald Syme

ko-fi⭐ bsky ⭐ pixiv ⭐ pillowfort ⭐ cohost ⭐ cara.app

[goose8791]

Losing me — luke castellan

pairing: luke castellan x Apollo fem!reader

warnings: toxic, violence, lovers to enemies trope, established relationship

okay so I have never posted here but here we go. Also the lines that separate the paragraphs is the passing of time. enjoy!

"Luke, stop," she pleaded, her voice quivering as she shook her head, strands of her dishevelled hair falling across her face. She pulled away from his grasp, the weight of her decision heavy in the air. His confusion was evident, eyebrows furrowing in a desperate attempt to make sense of the situation.

"I don't understand," he confessed, his voice tinged with vulnerability. The dim room seemed to close in around them. She took a step back, her eyes reflecting a mix of sadness and determination.

"I know you don't," she whispered, her words hanging in the air like a delicate thread. "But this needs to stop." Her gaze met his, and for a fleeting moment, a silent plea passed between them.

"You said you'd follow me to the end of the world," he implored, taking a hesitant step forward. His eyes, once filled with unwavering certainty, now searched hers for answers. She mirrored his movement, stepping back, creating a growing distance.

"This is the end, Luke," she stated, her voice carrying the weight of a thousand unspoken words. "Look at you." Her eyes swept over him, the turmoil in his dark, searching eyes, where not the same brown pretty eyes she loved.

"Do you hear yourself?" she exclaimed, frustration boiling over as she gestured emphatically at him. The room seemed to echo with the echoes of their emotions. He stood frozen, absorbing the impact of her words. The silence that followed hung like a heavy fog.

His dark eyes darted around her face, desperately seeking a way to bridge the widening gap between them. "I can't lose you," he confessed, the vulnerability in his voice laying bare the raw truth of his feelings. "Luke, you have," she whispered, the truth cutting through the hushed atmosphere like a knife. The realisation struck him like a sudden gust of cold wind, and he jolted awake, the sheets clinging to his back, drenched in sweat. His gaze instinctively darted to the empty space next to him, where she had slept, her absence a stark reminder of the growing distance between them.

Unable to shake off the lingering emotions from the dream, Luke opened his cabin door and found her on the steps, tending to the wounds acquired from the recent quest. The early morning light filtered through the tall trees, casting a soft glow over her face as she worked on mending her gashes. Without a word, he sat down next to her, the silence between them heavy with unspoken sentiments.

"Did you have a bad dream or did I wake you up?" she inquired, concern etched on her face as she peeled off the old, blood-stained cloth. He hesitated for a moment before admitting, "A dream." His gaze remained averted, grappling with the emotions stirred by the vivid images that still lingered in his mind.

She reached out, her hand running gently over his jaw and cheek, through his curly brown hair. His eyes closed, and he leaned into her touch, seeking comfort in the warmth of her presence. 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Every morning since her father Apollo visited her, she glared at him with storms in her eyes, the weight of unspoken internal struggles etched into every line on her face. How could he say that he loved her when he couldn't admit the silent corruption of his mind, a looming darkness foretold by the prophecy that had cast a long shadow over their lives? She bit her nails down to the quick, a nervous habit fueled by the anxiety that brewed beneath the surface, a constant reminder of the impending doom that threatened to unravel their world.

Her face took on a pallor, a shade of grey that mirrored the unacknowledged sickness festering within their connection. Despite the storm raging within her, Luke remained oblivious, unwilling to confront the reality of what lay ahead. The prophecy, like an ominous cloud, cast a chilling effect on their relationship, its unspoken weight pulling them apart.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

"YOU DID NOT!" she screamed, the sound reverberating around the room like a sharp echo. "Baby, please listen," he pleaded, desperation evident in his voice as he tried to sway her. "NO! Luke, you have lost it," she yelled in response, vehemently rejecting his attempts to explain himself. In frustration, she turned away, determined to distance herself from the chaos that had unfolded.

Luke, unable to let her slip away, grabbed her arm forcefully. She turned to face him, the air thick with a sense of loss and indecision as their eyes locked in a silent battle. "Join me, please. It pains me not to be with you," he pleaded, the desperation seeping into his words. His grip, initially firm, began to loosen on her upper arm.

"I know my pain is such an imposition to you," she declared, ripping her arm out of his grasp. Her eyes held a mix of hurt and defiance as she confronted him. "And I know that my choice is such a hard thing to grasp, but if you want things to change, joining Kronos is not the way!" her words stuck to him like thick honey, the fact that what he’s seeing and hearing is true.  

"You said you'd follow me to the end of the world," he whispered, his eyes unable to break free from her gaze, unwilling to admit to himself that this nightmare was unfolding. The weight of his own choices pressed heavily on his shoulders, and he found himself trapped in the inevitability of the moment. "This is the end of the world," she stated, her voice carrying a mixture of sorrow and resolve. Her hand reached up, tenderly cupping his cheek, a silent plea lingering in the touch. "If you do this, it is the end."

In response, he tightened his grip on her wrist, a force that caught her off guard. The air between them crackled with tension, and her other hand instinctively found the dagger at her hip. She pointed it at his chest, a desperate attempt to defend the crumbling boundaries of the world they had once shared. 

Her free hand swiftly snatched the dagger from her hip, its cold steel gleaming ominously in the dim light. With a mix of desperation and determination, she pointed it at his chest as he pulled her closer, their noses almost touching. The dagger hovered precariously, a symbolic line drawn in the tense air between them, representing the perilous crossroads of their shared fate.

"Do it," he hissed, teeth bared in a mix of defiance and resignation. His head tilted, his intense gaze looking down on her face. "If this is the end, then end it," he whispered, the words carrying a raw vulnerability. Her eyes flickered briefly to his lips and then back up to his eyes. 

Closing the gap between them, she crushed her lips into his in an almost feverish kiss, a collision of conflicting emotions and unspoken farewells. He responded eagerly, savouring the moment with closed eyes, fully aware that this would be the last time. When they finally broke apart, he pressed his forehead against hers, a desperate attempt to prolong the closeness as she began to pull away.

"Luke, you have sixty seconds," she stated, her voice carrying the weight of an impending farewell. The fleeting seconds hung in the air, a countdown to a decision that would shape the course of their intertwined destinies. Reluctantly, he reluctantly let her go, his eyes tracing the contours of her face as she pulled away. The air was charged with the weight of unspoken goodbyes, the seconds slipping through their fingers like grains of sand.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Luke's footsteps echoed through the dimly lit hallway of the ancient Apollo temple, nestled in the heart of San Diego. The aged stone walls seemed to whisper the stories of countless quests and devotees who had treated these hallowed grounds. His sword, weathered and worn, felt heavy in his hand, a tangible reminder of the urgency that fueled his pursuit.

His eyes darted around the corridors, searching for any sign of her. He knew she was here, on a quest for her father, Apollo. Luke needed Apollo's lyre, and the knowledge that she possessed it intensified the urgency of his pursuit.

As he rounded a corner, there she was, knelt in front of a tall, looming statue of Apollo that almost seemed to watch him as he walked closer to her. The soft glow of candlelight flickered against the intricacies of the statue, casting shadows on her features. Her hair, longer and now lightened, framed her face in a way that seemed to capture the essence of the divine. The passage of time had woven a tapestry of change in her appearance since the last time he laid eyes on her. "Do you think I'm just going to hand it over to you?" she questioned, glancing over her shoulder with an eyebrow raised. Luke hesitated, his attempt at negotiation cut short as she rose, the coveted lyre in her possession. With a swift motion, her finger graced the strings, and as if answering the call, the golden lyre transformed into a magnificent bow, accompanied by a matching arrow that found its place in her grip.

"I was hoping we could negotiate?" he suggested, but before he could take another step towards her, she had the golden bow aimed directly at him. “You’re pathetic,” she spat, her tone filled with disdain. “You think we can negotiate? How long can we be a sad song, Luke?” A bitter edge tinged her almost-laugh as she descended one of the steps that led to the statue, the arrow still menacingly aimed at him. Her eyes, once filled with warmth, now scrutinised him from the scar down to his boots and back up again. 

“What did your father tell you? That I was pathetic?” he retaliated, a bitter edge in his tone. She responded with swift action, firing the arrow from her fingers. It whizzed past his head with a menacing speed, a stark reminder of her prowess with a bow. "I thought you were gifted by the gods, but you can't even-" His sentence was abruptly cut short as another arrow hurtled towards him, piercing straight through his armoured shoulder and only just touching his skin.

He stumbled backward, the force of the impact stealing his breath. The weight of the golden arrow embedded in his shoulder added to the gravity of the moment. With a pained grunt, he yanked the arrow out, the metallic twang resonating in the air.

“That wasn’t very nice, sweetheart,” he hissed, the words dripping with both pain and resentment. Undeterred, he stepped forward, his determination cutting through the air. She fired, the arrow slicing through the space between them, but Luke deftly deflected it with a swift motion of his sword. In response, she fired again, the tension escalating with each passing second.

Luke closed the distance, his presence too near for another arrow to find its mark. As if responding to the urgency of the moment, the golden bow in her hand transformed into a gleaming sword, a manifestation of the escalating conflict. The clash was imminent.

The air crackled with the sound of metal meeting metal as the two swords collided. Sparks danced in the dimly lit temple, a visual representation of the fervour that fueled their confrontation. "I gave you all my best me's," she commented, her voice carrying the weight of shared memories. The scrape of the swords echoed their complex history, each clash a reverberation of the emotions that lingered between them. "And my endless empathy," she added, the passion in her words cutting through the charged atmosphere. The swords locked in a duel, the very embodiment of the clash between love and betrayal, passion and resentment. 

He placed a foot on her chest, exerting pressure that sent her colliding with the cold stone wall. The clash echoed through the ancient temple as Luke's sword delicately lined her throat, dancing over her skin. Their faces hovered mere inches from each other, breaths mingling in the charged air. Her teeth bared in defiance as he looked down on her, the intensity of their gaze locking in a silent battle.

“I won’t kill you if you just hand it over,” he said, his words a calm facade over the underlying tension. Yet, his eyes betrayed a flicker of emotion, briefly wandering to her mouth. “You wouldn't dare,” she hissed, defiant and unyielding, moving closer to both Luke and the blade that danced perilously over her skin.

Luke's hand found her wrist, the one that held the gleaming sword, wrapping around it with a firm grip. “All I did was bleed for you,” she added, her voice catching with a mix of sorrow and accusation. “You betrayed me as I tried to be your bravest soldier.” Tears threatened to spill from her eyes as Luke remained silent, the weight of her words hanging in the air like an unspoken truth. “Fighting in only your army,” she added, almost pleading, desperation lacing her words. “Don’t you ignore me!” she screamed at him, her voice echoing around the temple.

In that charged moment, as the weight of their shared history pressed heavily upon them, Luke's gaze softened. His grip on her wrist loosened, and against the backdrop of their tumultuous confrontation, he pulled her closer. A raw vulnerability lingered in the air as his lips met hers, a desperate attempt to bridge the gap that betrayal had created.

The kiss, passionate yet laced with bitterness, became a silent plea for understanding. Tears ran down her cheeks, mixing with the intensity of the moment. 

However, as the kiss deepened, she pushed him away with a force fueled by anger and hurt. In the aftermath of the intimate collision, she took a step back, her eyes and cheeks tear-stained. With a swift motion, her hand moved the sunlight streaming through the ancient temple's windows. The light intensified, forming a blinding ray that pierced his eyes, momentarily robbing him of his vision.

The sudden manipulation of sunlight served as a physical manifestation of her emotional turmoil. As the radiant beam enveloped him, she stood there, her silhouette defined by the glow of the manipulated light. Luke couldn't help but think that she should be the one worshipped, not Apollo. Her power, both divine and resonant, felt more potent in that sacred space than the legacy of any god.

The pain surged through him when her sword cut through his shoulder, a searing agony that felt like his very being was set ablaze. The blinding sunlight, manipulated by her hand, had left him vulnerable, and he didn't see her coming.The blade seemed to carry the weight of centuries, as if it had been forged in the crucible of ancient torment. Luke gritted his teeth, his grip tightening around the bleeding gash. In the midst of the physical pain, there lingered a deep yearning—a wish, almost desperate, that she had chosen to end him with that strike.

The echoes of their tumultuous history reverberated in the hallowed halls of the Apollo temple, and as the pain pulsed through him, Luke grappled with the realisation that the wounds inflicted went beyond the physical.

“Get out,” her voice echoed around his head as he struggled to his feet. The blinding pain in his shoulder and impaired vision left him with no choice but to leave the sacred grounds of the Apollo temple. He cast one more glance at her, catching a glimpse of an unexpected presence. Apollo stood behind her, a godly figure with one hand resting on her shoulder. The divine touch spoke volumes, an undeniable symbol of the unspoken alliance between father and daughter.

Luke, battered and defeated, felt the weight of Apollo's silent support as he begrudgingly turned away. The echoes of her command still reverberated in his ears.

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"Do something, babe, say something," her voice echoed, reaching him even though her presence remained elusive in the dream. Pain resonated in her words.

"Lose something, babe, risk something," she shouted, the dream swirling around him in chaotic fragments.

"Choose something, babe, I got nothing," her words bore a tangible weight, too vivid to dismiss as a mere dream. “Luke, you’re losing me!” It screamed, and he jolted out of his bed, his head ringing with the persistent echo of her haunting plea.

The disorienting transition from the dream-world to reality left Luke breathless, the remnants of the dream still clinging to his senses. The urgency in her voice lingered, imprinting and haunting him.

[traeumenvonbuechern]

🐉 Dragon Books To Read If You Liked "Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarros 🐉

The dragon romantasy "Fourth Wing" by Rebecca Yarros has taken over the bookish community, so I wanted to give you some recommendations on what to read after you finished it.

Dragonfall by L.R. Lam

Long ago, humans betrayed dragons, stealing their magic and banishing them to a dying world. Centuries later, their descendants worship dragons as gods. But the 'gods' remember, and they do not forgive. Since they were orphaned, Arcady has scraped a living thieving on the streets of Vatra, dreaming of life among the nobility - and revenge. When the chance arises to steal a powerful artefact from the bones of the Plaguebringer, the most hated person in Lumet history, they jump at it, for its magic holds the key to their dreams. But the spell has unintended consequences, and drags Everen - the last male dragon, who was once foretold to save his kind - into the human world. Trapped, and disguised as a human, Everen soon realises that the key to his destiny, and to regaining his true power, lies in Arcady. All he needs to do is convince one little thief to bond with him completely - body, mind, and soul - and then kill them . . . Yet the closer the two become, the greater the risk both their worlds will shatter.

To Shape a Dragon's Breath by Moniquill Blackgoose

A young Indigenous woman enters a colonizer-run dragon academy—and quickly finds herself at odds with the “approved” way of doing things—in the first book of this brilliant new fantasy series. The remote island of Masquapaug has not seen a dragon in many generations—until fifteen-year-old Anequs finds a dragon’s egg and bonds with its hatchling. Her people are delighted, for all remember the tales of the days when dragons lived among them and danced away the storms of autumn, enabling the people to thrive. To them, Anequs is revered as Nampeshiweisit—a person in a unique relationship with a dragon. Unfortunately for Anequs, the Anglish conquerors of her land have different opinions. They have a very specific idea of how a dragon should be raised, and who should be doing the raising—and Anequs does not meet any of their requirements. Only with great reluctance do they allow Anequs to enroll in a proper Anglish dragon school on the mainland. If she cannot succeed there, her dragon will be killed. For a girl with no formal schooling, a non-Anglish upbringing, and a very different understanding of the history of her land, challenges abound—both socially and academically. But Anequs is smart, determined, and resolved to learn what she needs to help her dragon, even if it means teaching herself. The one thing she refuses to do, however, is become the meek Anglish miss that everyone expects. Anequs and her dragon may be coming of age, but they’re also coming to power, and that brings an important realization: the world needs changing—and they might just be the ones to do it.

She Who Earned Her Wings by Vaela Denarr & Micah Iannandrea

One does not learn to fly without taking a leap. And one has to fall to be caught. Nomi is a young druid finally taking the chance to spread her wings and leave her home. To see the world and discover its magic, beauty… and maybe love. Calia is a dragon on the hunt for angels, trying to square an old debt. That, and to get Laura, her desired bondmate, to finally return to her side, where she belongs. Nomi immediately catches the eye of the powerful dragons. Calia entices her with honeyed words and a skillful tongue. On the other hand, Laura, much smaller but equally intimidating, takes it upon herself to protect her. Despite the warnings, Nomi can’t help being drawn to Calia's charm, her power, her fangs… and the hidden gentleness in her eyes. She promises danger where Laura promises safety, and Nomi is torn between the two. Luckily there is a convenient cult out for the dragons’ heads, providing Nomi with ample distraction and at least one dragon egg to steal, hatch, and raise by herself. Perfectly normal things for a young transgender druid to get involved in! In the clutches of dragons, battling dark forces from beyond the stars, Nomi faces the questions of who she is and who she wants to be. Whether she deserves the love offered to her, and what it truly takes to earn her wings...

[indieyuugure]

I know it's your story and you are entitled at whatever you want to do with plot,but can i at least ask to for in favor of alleviate the boys' suffering and petition for them to experience the good things about being human? 🤭😅

Lol don’t worry, you’ll have a lull in the pain for a while before I crank the heat up again. (This may be a spoiler to you but like Donnie said he would, he manages to keep down a dose of medicine that alleviates most of his pain, though it doesn’t work for too long.)

Okay but in terms of them having a good time as humans, just hear me out!

One of the main messages I want to convey in this story is that you can’t have it all. They can’t be super human hero’s of New York who travel space and time fighting ninjas, robots and everything in between and also get to live a normal human life in a apartment with friends and school. They want to have it all but they can’t.

The reason the beginning was fun and happy is because that’s what you would expect. However many people don’t think deeper than that. They don’t consider the fact that the only reason the turtles can do what they do is because they’re…well super human, mutants. I wanted to write a classic “TMNT becoming human” story before I displayed the dark truth behind a seemingly lighthearted idea.

So the reason the story gets darker is to show you why they can’t be humans. Not just because fate foretold that they had to stay turtles, but because they understand that all things come with a sacrifice and that they can’t have it all.

So I guess to answer your question, I will have to decline. Sorry :\

As I said though, there will be an eye of the storm amidst the chaos.

Good question! :]

[shisui-shrine]

Shisui X F!Reader

Confession

Part 1 (a reference is made, but you can read this without Part 1)

TW: Some light injuries but nothing graphic, small mention of blood

Shisui is going to need some sort of trigger to confess his feelings to you, wether that be jealousy, the realisation he doesn't want to live without you, or even fear for your life

He can't confess like a normal human, he'll overthink it and then chicken out last minute

Sometimes a spontaneous guy, but NOT with this

He'll plan out every single detail, multiple ways depending on your reaction and even try to predict what you'll say

He'll ask Itachi for help, though he wouldn't be able to give any meaningful advice

His best tip would be the most basic thing, like: Be yourself

His help is appreciated, but useless

So Shisui decides to simply confess when you come back from your mission in two days

He pickd your favourite flowers, thinking the effort he's putting in will be more romantic than simply paying for them

He also buys your favourite snack "Love goes through the stomach", he thinks as he pays for them

He waits for you by the gate... but your team doesn't arrive, even though it was foretold that today was the day of your return

He does get a little worried, but also knows that last minute complications are rather common

He puts the flowers in water and the snack in the fridge and goes to sleep

She'll be fine, she's a really strong shinobi after all

But those horrid thoughts still plagued his mind

When you arrived the next day, limping a little and leaning over he immediately stormed to your side

"Y/N?! You're hurt. Let me help you"

You smile at him and thank him, as he carries you to the hospital

"Thank you for your help, Shisui. I really appreciate it."

Shisui looks up from the orange he was cutting for you, meeting your eyes halfway. His hands have finally stopped shaking ever since he saw you arrive, covered in blood, your clothing ripped and your body clearly bruised.

"Please be more careful in the future", Shisui mumbles under his breath, eyes fixated back on the orangey. He places the orange slices on a plate and grabs an apple, cutting and peeling it.

"Is everything alright?", you ask, noticing how he seems awfully quiet today and much less smiley. An odd thing for a usually such optimistic guy.

His first thought is to shake your worries off, saying he simply had a bad morning because he ran out of coffee beans, but then he remembered his promise. The day before you left he promised to never lie about his emotions to you, to always tell you his worries, so he changes his mind last moment and decides to be honest.

"No, nothing is alright. I thought I lost you, the doctor said you have some broken bones and even internal bleedings."

He smashed the cut apple pieces onto the plate and threw his arms around your shoulder and neck.

"I was so worried about you, because Y/N... because I love you. I love you more than anything"

A little shocked by his confession you simply wrap your arms around him as well, patting his back gently.

"Thank you for telling me your worries, I know this must have been hard for you. And about your confession... I feel the same"

Shisui quickly pulls away from you, keeping his hands on your shoulders, a happy smile on his handsome face.

"I love you too, Shisui", you press a gentle kiss to his forehead.

He giggles and presses a soft kiss to your lips, humming as he closes his eyes in enjoyment.

"So, will you give me the honour of becoming my girlfriend?", he mumbles with his lips barely a few millimetres away from yours.

"I'd love to", you whisper back, placing a hand on the back of his neck and closing the gap between your lips.

[dontmeantobepoliticalbut]

New explosive footage of Roger Stone strategizing to overturn the 2020 presidential election—before the vote was even called for Joe Biden—dooms Donald Trump’s main legal defense.

The video, aired on MSNBC Wednesday night and shot by filmmaker Christoffer Guldbrandsen, depicts the right-wing lobbyist dictating a fake elector plot in key battleground states. The video was taken on November 5, 2020, two days before the election was called, thus disproving Trump’s main defense that he and his allies genuinely believed they had won the race.

“Any legislative body may decide on the basis of overwhelming evidence of fraud to send electors to the electoral college who accurately reflect the president’s legitimate victory in their state which was illegally denied him through fraud,” Stone said, as an associate transcribed his words. “We must be prepared to lobby our Republican legislatures … by personal contact and by demonstrating the overwhelming will of the people in their state—in each state—that this may need to happen.”

Trump was indicted for the fourth time and charged with 13 counts in Georgia on Monday.

Stone is not named as a co-defendant in the indictment. He could, however, potentially be one of the 30 unnamed, co-conspirators.

The clip was part of Guldbrandsen’s documentary, A Storm Foretold, released in March of this year. Guldbrandsen told The Daily Beast that Stone was “upset” when the documentary aired.

In another clip from the documentary taken on November 1, 2020, Stone said Trump needed to claim victory early on election night.

“I really do suspect it’ll still be up in the air. When that happens, the key thing to do is to claim victory. Possession is nine-tenths of the law,” he said.

[bonebabbles]

Tigerstar body count:

Redtail

Runningwind

Brindleface

Gorsepaw

Bluestar (last life)

Stonefur

Clear Sky body count:

Fox

Misty

Bumble

Rainswept Flower

I will charitably count every indirect death at the First Battle, an event which was 100% his fault, as only 1 (Falling Feather, Jackdaw's Cry, Hawk Swoop, Frost, Fircone, etc)

Micah

Tiny Branch (refused to let Acorn Fur get fully trained or fetch help until it was too late)

Willow Tail

Wind Runner (1 life)

I could also point out that Tom the Wifebeater, Moon Shadow, Storm, Petal, and Bright Stream died as a result of bad calls or terrible choices he made. Not to mention his long history of physical assault, abandonment of the disabled, and emotional abuse.

This is fine because the writers like him. "He just made some mistakes," but also he should totally forgive himself because it was always foretold and thus not really his fault

[berrypockets]

Voiceless | Shadows Beneath the Veil

Tommy Shelby x Reader

In the smoke-filled ambiance of the Garrison, Polly confronted Grace, her eyes hardened with determination. The murmur of conversations and the clinking of glasses served as the backdrop to this clandestine meeting.

"Polly," Grace greeted with a smirk, "what brings you here? Enjoying the company, or seeking some excitement?"

Polly cut through the pleasantries, her tone sharp. "Enough of your games, Grace. We know about the rumors and the lies you've spread. It ends here."

Grace feigned innocence, swirling the remnants of her drink. "I have no idea what you're talking about, Polly. I'm merely a friend looking out for Tommy's best interests."

Polly leaned in, her piercing gaze unsettling Grace's facade. "Save the theatrics. Your little charade is over. Leave Small Heath, Grace. Find another playground for your mischief, but it won't be here. Cross me again, and I won't hesitate to ensure your time in Birmingham becomes a living nightmare."

As Grace unhurriedly walks towards the exit, Polly's commanding presence lingered. She leaned forward, her words a whispered prophecy that sent a chill down Grace's spine.

"No matter what tricks you play, Grace, Tommy will always belong to Y/N. Their connection is deeper than your deceit. It's destiny, gypsy magic that binds them together."

Grace, sensing the weight of Polly's gaze, smirked one last time. "You should've known, Polly. Tommy Shelby was meant to be mine. I did what I had to do."

Polly, her anger simmering beneath the surface, shot back, "You'll regret the day you stepped into our lives, Grace. But, don't worry, you won't be here long enough to see the consequences."

"You know, I should've ensured that the man I hired to attack Y/N finished the job properly back then. Would've saved us all this trouble." Polly's eyes widened in shock and disbelief at Grace's callous admission.

The weight of the revelation hung in the air, an acknowledgment of a betrayal that ran deeper than anyone had imagined. "Attacking an innocent woman, trying to tear apart this family. There's a special place in hell for people like you."

As Grace made her way out, Polly, left in disbelief, pondered over the revelation that Grace had orchestrated the attack on Y/N, a revelation she hadn't anticipated.

Grace, just at the edge of hearing Polly's words, turned back briefly, a defiant smirk playing on her lips. "Tommy will be mine, Polly. You can't stop fate."

The realization left Polly with a mix of shock, anger, and a newfound understanding of the depths to which Grace was willing to sink in her pursuit of Tommy Shelby's affection.

Polly's response was a cold, knowing stare. "You've awakened something you won't be able to control. Tommy may have been blind to your true nature, but not anymore. Small Heath will be purged of your poison, one way or another."

As Grace disappeared into the shadows of the night, Polly's thoughts churned with a mixture of resolve and a simmering anger that foretold an imminent storm in Small Heath. The battle lines were drawn, and Polly Shelby, the matriarch of the Shelby family, was ready to protect her own.

Masterlist | Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

[mint-yooxgi]

The Library of Illusion - Prologue

Yandere AU - Based off of This Event hosted by @cultofdionysusnet

Genre: Mature, Horror, Angst, Slight Humour

Pairing: Ateez X Reader - (Focus on Seonghwa to start)

Words: 4,362

Warnings: Mention of losing consciousness, dehydration, and starvation. This is a Yandere story, it will contain themes such as stalking, violence, obsession, possessive natures, and just general overall creepiness and swearing. You have been warned.

A/n: Huge thank you to the network for allowing me to participate in this event!! I'm super excited for everyone to see what I have planned, there's a lot of stories heading your way!! I really hope you all enjoy, and please do let me know your theories and what you think so far!! As always, Feedback is greatly appreciated! Enjoy!~

Gentle reminder that I do not do tag lists.

Mini Masterlist

The heat is unbearable. 

With every step you take, exhaustion creeps closer and closer. Your entire body feels heavy, your eyelids drooping further with every blink. Long since has your blood flowing through your ears drowned out any other sounds of the desert around you, the sun bearing down on you like an iron cross. Each breath is a pain filled dagger into your burning lungs, but still, you carry on.

It has to be around here somewhere.

For four days and four nights, you have been trekking through the red, unforgiving sands of the desert in search of a library. Not just any library. A hidden library that is said to house an indescribable knowledge, and a hidden treasure.

You’ve never been one to care for material treasures, nor seek vast riches in life. In fact, you had been perfectly content with the way your life had been going.

Until the accident.

Now, you desperately seek this Library of Illusion and it’s treasure, for it is foretold that it can grant any wish, and right now, you only have one. You will only ever have one.

The constant drag of your feet through the sand grounds you. Your mouth, which has gone as dry and barren as the desert around you, desperately longs for water. A luxury you ran out of twelve hours ago. Already, you can feel the effects of severe dehydration, your vision blurring at the corners as your body feels as hot as the scorched sands of the earth you traverse.

Only yesterday, you ran out of food, and you can feel those familiar pangs of hunger twisting at your stomach. Yet, nausea builds steadily in your chest. Bile rises in your throat, and each attempt to swallow down the acidity rising within has your chest constricting from the pain.

You should have packed more. You should have been more prepared.

The map you had been following fluttered away in a sudden sandstorm early on, of which delayed you by a whole day. You had managed to find an outcropping of rocks to hide yourself in as the storm passed, but the only thing you had to gather your bearings and reorient yourself with afterwards was the sun. You’re running on pure adrenaline and hope right now, but you don’t know how much longer either will last.

Already, you can feel your movements slowing down, chest feeling heavier and heavier with each inhale you take. You would have called for help some time ago, were it not for the fact that your phone died, and so did the multiple spare wireless charges you brought along with you. Even so, there’s no service in this particular section of the desert, so you’re stranded regardless of if you had been able to garner communication with the outside world or not.

With each blink, your eyes sting from the sand beginning to swirl around you. Dread weighs heavy on your heart, which begins to slow with each languid step forward. Already, you are close to collapsing.

An ominous feeling from behind you has you turning your head to see a looming cloud of smoke approaching from the distance, and you realize with a horrid sense of dread that another sandstorm is on its way. Only this time, there is no shelter you can seek.

You are doomed, and probably have been from the very start. There probably isn’t an actual library out here to begin with, and you’ve just thrown away your life for a chance at something that seemed impossible to begin with.

Rumours are just that. Rumours.

Your feet give out beneath you.

Sand clouds your vision, stinging at your tired eyes as your body refuses to move. So much as coughing to clear your throat feels as if someone has taken sandpaper to your lungs, scraping the tissue raw from the inside out.

You begin to choke on dust, no tears able to form in your dry eyes.

This is it. This is how you die: lost in the desert, alone and starved, dehydrated and exhausted to the point of delirium. All for the hopes of some sacred treasure that may or may not actually be able to grant your wish. A desire so deep, you had been more than eager to throw away your life for, even if it did not actually exist.

Even now, on the bring of death, you cling onto that wish. A flickering flame of hope continues to burn so deeply in your soul, you swear that you can see the embers lighting up behind your very eyelids as they finally fall shut. The only thought in your mind as you succumb to your exhaustion is a desperate plea to whatever is out there in the universe to let you see him one last time.

~~~

It’s dark. 

Dark and cool, despite the feeling of something draped over your body. A body of which feels the lightest it has been in days, that aching feeling no longer buried deep within your bones.

Dark, and cool, and quiet.

A low groan escapes you, turning onto your side form your back as you begin to regain consciousness. Raising your one arm, you bring a hand to your head, wiping at your face lethargically.

A deep chuckle sounds from beside you, “Are you finally awake?”

Immediately, your eyes are flinging open as you tear the covers off of your body. You appear to be in a bed of some sort, dark red curtains, almost maroon, hanging from each of the grand posts rising high from each corner. The sheets are light in material, but dark in colour as your head darts everywhere around the room.

“Where am I?” Your frantic voice, sounding much better than you thought it would after days of no use, echoes around the area.

You seem to be inside of an old building of some sort, the walls the same dusty red as the sands of the desert. It appears as if this chamber has been carved out of stone, a wooden antique desk resting off to the side while shelves upon shelves of books line the walls. The ceiling is high and arched, chandeliers hanging every three rows or so to illuminate the space.

At least this place has electricity… and air conditioning, it seems.

“I think you already know the answer to that.” The same voice replies.

Turning your head, your vision is drawn to a man now leaning against the wooden desk. His arms are crossed over his chest, yet despite his closed off stance, his shoulders appear relaxed. He has somewhat medium length black hair that falls in light waves, parted over his forehead, and wide, dark brown eyes. They appear almost black in colour, for you can see what is supposed to be the whites of his eyes have faded to a sort of aged yellow, almost reminiscent of the few pieces of worn yellow parchment you can see littering the top of the desk.

His clothes are fair. A low collared black shirt adorns his torso, while black pants rest over his legs, reminiscent of jeans. You can even see a silver chain dangling on his hip, attached to the one loop on his waist while the other end disappears around him and into his back pocket. Another chain rests around his neck, thick and just as silver as the other.

How he doesn’t overheat is a mystery to you.

Amusement dances lightly in his eyes as he watches you from across the room. His lips tug upwards in a friendly grin, but the more you stare, the more unnerved your become.

Softly, you place your feet upon the floor, standing cautiously from the bed. Your eyes lock on your personal items - your backpack, canteens, and holster - all sitting beside him on the floor. They seem to be resting against the desk, untouched and in perfect condition.

Inhaling sharply, your one hand rushes to your back.

“Looking for this?” With a quirked brow, the man pulls out your hunting knife from under his arm. “I will say, not as many come as prepared as you do. Desperate, yes, but with weapons?”

A loud clanging echoes throughout the chamber as he tosses the knife onto the top of the desk behind him.

You eye him carefully, guard still high as you prepare to defend yourself using any means necessary. You’re not much of a fighter, but you won’t go down so easily.

“I’m dead, aren’t I?” You voice lowly. “This is the afterlife.”

The man begins to laugh, quite boisterously at that.

“No. You’re not dead.”

“I should be.” You counter. “Even I know that there’s no way in hell I could have been rescued from the middle of the desert when there was a sandstorm approaching. I was already suffering from heat stroke, and dehydration. I should be dead.”

“Is it that surprising to learn that you are not?” He tilts his head curiously at you.

“Did you save me, then?” You counter, mirroring his stance by crossing your arms over your chest.

“I did.” Comes his blunt reply. “It was quite easy, too.”

“Then, if your earlier implication is to be believed, this is the library I’ve been looking for.” You state, somewhat skeptically.

“The one and only.” He confirms with a slight grin.

You blink, disbelief painting your features. “Why… is there a bed in the middle of the library?”

“The bookkeeper needs some place to sleep, no?” He chuckles.

“You’re the bookkeeper of the Library of Illusion?” Your head tilts forward slightly, looking at him with a clearly raised brow.

“Well, I am the Keeper of Keys. Bookkeeping is just my hobby.” He shrugs casually, as if this is a conversation he has often.

“So, then, I’m also correct in assuming you know everything there is to know about this library?” You continue.

“That would be correct.” He nods his head once.

“Great.” You mirror his nod. “Where’s the treasure?”

His eyes widen in amused disbelief. “Not even going to ask for the name of your saviour first?”

“Fine.” You heave a tremendous sigh. “What’s your name?”

He smiles, as if he’s been waiting for this opportunity all along, “My name is Seonghwa.”

A firm nod in response in all he receives from you as you begin to look around the space once more.

His smile falls.

“You know, it’s common curtesy to introduce yourself after someone has identified themselves to you.” He states, rather pointedly.

Your brow furrows as you choose to ignore him for now. There doesn’t seem to be any visible entrances or exits in the immediate vicinity, and the entire chamber doesn’t look that grand to begin with.

“How did you manage to save me?” You turn your attention back to him.

“You were passed out, so I brought you inside.” Comes his simple reply.

You hum, clearly not convinced. Only, you decide to leave it at that for now. Instead, you opt to introduce yourself just as he said. It’s better not to get on his bad side, anyways. He may be the only one who knows the ways in and out of this place. Besides, he did save your life.

“So, bookkeep,” you straighten in your spot, “the treasure?”

“And here I was thinking you’d be different,” he sighs.

“Different?” You nose scrunches, dissatisfied with his tone.

Purposely, he ignores your statement. “What is it that you were told the treasure was this time?”

“I was led to believe the treasure is said to fulfill your deepest desire.” You eye him warily, lowing your hands to your sides for the moment. “A wish, if you will.”

“Let me guess? Fame? Fortune? Beauty?” His gaze narrows slightly, disinterest painting his features. “Love?”

You inhale sharply.

“Don’t ask questions you don’t want to know the answer to.” You reply darkly, tone low and ominous.

“I am the Keeper of Keys, it is my duty to ask questions,” he pushes himself off of the desk. “Especially when the treasure is involved.”

“It’s real, then?” You watch as he begins walking down the open hallway a ways.

“As real as you and me.” He sighs, not even bothering to look back at you.

“Great!” You begin to follow him, that familiar blossom of hope swelling inside of your chest. “Where can I find it?”

Suddenly, Seonghwa makes a sharp right, stopping right before an iron gate. A plaque above the intricately shaped bars of metal reads ‘Restricted Section’ in big, bold letters. 

Wordlessly, he points at the gate.

“Behind there?” You question.

“If you can get to it.” He hums, shifting to lean against the shelf closest to him.

You go to take a step forward before stopping yourself. “What’s the catch?”

“What do you mean?” There’s a certain giddiness shining behind his eyes as he meets your own.

“I’m not stupid enough to believe you would lead me straight to the treasure without there being some kind of test.” Your answer is quite firm, irritation lining your voice. “So, what’s the catch?”

“You’re not even going to try the doors?” His tone is nothing short of mocking as he continues to stare at you.

“You didn’t unlock them.” You reply bluntly.

“Smart girl.” He hums. “You see, I cannot unlock them.”

Your brow quirks. “Can’t or won’t?”

“I cannot unlock them.” He repeats, emphasizing his every word. “I don’t have the keys.”

“Some Keeper of Keys you are.” You exhale a disappointed sigh. “Doesn’t even have the key to the restricted section. Bookkeeping must get so boring for you, not having any of the fun books to go through.”

“It has its moments.” He nods, actually contemplating your words. The way he notices you shooting him a blank look has him chuckling. “No, only you can unlock this door.”

“Me?” Incredulous doesn’t even begin to describe you, your eyes going wide as you look from him to the iron gate.

“If you’re serious about wanting this ‘wish’,” he stands back to his full height, “Then, you are going to have to earn it.”

“Earn it?” You shoot him another incredulous look. “How the hell do you expect me to do that? I can’t knock down a locked iron gate!”

“How do you even know it’s locked in the first place?” Seonghwa replies smartly.

“You just said you can’t unlock them!” You raise your hands exasperatedly in the air in front of yourself.

“Oh, I suppose I did.” He chuckles.

“Spend too much time in the desert you have dust for brains or something?” You mutter, shaking your head.

“That’s not a very nice thing to say to someone you just met.” He pouts.

A moment passes where you consider his words before your entire body is deflating.

“You’re right.” You take a deep breath as you look towards the ground. “I’m sorry. It’s just been a long past few months.”

His brow furrows in confusion. “You’ve been looking for this library for the past few months?”

“No, that’s not what I meant.” You shake your head once more.

“Then, what did you mean?” He blinks at you curiously.

“Never mind.” You wave him off. “Forget I said anything.”

“Normally, when people seek out the treasure’s wish, they tend to be down on their luck.” He comments. “Even fewer still who make it inside.”

“Well, I have you to thank for that, don’t I?” You attempt a faint smile, but it does not reach your eyes. “How do I even get into this restricted section, anyways?”

“You need to find the keys.”

“I think we’ve already established that.” You sigh.

“Not just one key. Keys.” He purposely emphasizes his final word, motioning for you to look closer at the door.

Sure enough, glancing intently at the iron gate reveals six different sets of locks, all weaving together intricately to keep the door tightly shut.

You swallow thickly.

“Where do you suppose I start looking for those? You already said you don’t have the key.” You turn back to face him. “Or well, keys.”

Again, Seonghwa motions across the way, and you follow the movement. A moment later, and he’s stepped to the opposite side of the hall where five plaques seem to be placed directly beside five doors. Each plaque is bronze, title corresponding the the name engraved onto the front of the section it resides beside.

“Each of these doors lead to a different section of the library.” He explains.

“I thought everything would be in one place.” You mumble, crossing your arms over your chest.

Looking closer at the wall that houses the doors, you notice each door to be different. One is a steel door with a circular handle that looks quite familiar to you. A few are thick wooden doors. One is intricately carved with what appears to be mini statues of kings. The other simply looks like an old wooden door, the types castles are sure to have. Another door is more modern in shape, but still not up to today’s standards, while the other is a mix between iron and wood with a porthole type window frosted over in the centre of it.

Scanning your head around the area, something to the left draws your attention. There seems to be a metal grate on the floor, the area beneath glowing faintly as if there are burning embers far beneath the surface.

That’s when you realize, that must be the sixth door.

“You will need to find the keys in each of these sections before you can attempt to open the main gate of the restricted section.” Seonghwa continues. “But beware, each of these keys are guarded. These guardians will not be easy to convince to give up their keys, if you can even manage that.”

“We’re talking regular old keys here, right? I don’t want this to be some kind of riddle where the key is, I don’t know, a sacred orb, or something that will only transform into a key when I get back here.” You say, somewhat skeptically.

“No, no,” Seonghwa assures you. “They’re all physical keys.”

“Little concerning that the Keeper of Keys doesn’t have the ones we need.” You shoot him a look out of the corner of your eyes.

“It’s not like I wanted them to have these keys. It’s just the way things are.” Seonghwa shrugs.

“Alright, so, these… sections house individual keys kept safe by these guardians.” You repeat back to him, noticing how he nods along to your words. “Anything I should know before I attempt to look for them?”

“Once you enter a section, you will no longer be able to reach the main chamber, or me, for help.” He adds. “Not until the task is complete.”

“If I’m being honest here, Bookkeep, you haven’t been much of a help to begin with.”

“Need I remind you that I saved your life?” He quirks an amused brow.

“Yeah, yeah,” you wave him off. “Details, smetails.”

“That’s not a word.”

“Neither is ‘irregardless’, but people still use it, irregardless.” You quirk a small grin, glancing at him out of the corner of your eyes.

“You certainly are very interesting.” He hums.

“I’m going to take that as a complement.” You say, moving closer to each door to inspect the plaques beside them. “Is there a time limit for each section?”

“Not that I am aware of. You can spend as little, or as much time in each section as you desire.” He responds, watching you carefully. “The only way you can come back is if you’ve successfully retrieved the key.”

“So, I could spend years searching for the key inside each section, and still come up empty handed.” You exhale a large sigh. “Great.”

“Not necessarily, but that possibility is not zero.” He replies. “There is no time limit. At all.”

Your brow furrows in thought. “Is there a specific order I have to do this in?”

“No. It is completely up to you to decide the order.”

“Can I take breaks between these so called ‘trials’?” You inquire, tilting your head slightly to the side.

“Yes.” He confirms. “You may stay in the main chamber with me for as long as you desire.”

“Are you allowed to come with me?” You turn to meet his gaze.

“Unfortunately not.” He shakes his head. “This is something you will have to do on your own.”

You purse your lips in response, opting to turn back to the first plaque closest to you. It just so happens to be beside the door which says ‘Adventure’ on the front of it. Stepping in front of it, you begin to read:

“The sea calls us home; a heart to yearn. 

Hoist the colours high; never shall we die.”

Inside your chest, you can feel your own heart pang, eyebrow twitching in tandem as you recognize the saying. No wonder there’s a porthole on the door.

Shifting over to the next door, the one with the carvings of kings, an audible gasp escapes your throat as you read the plaque. You’d recognize that inscription anywhere, the lines of the script as familiar to you as breathing. Subconsciously, you clutch at the necklace that you wear in your hand of a golden ring with the same inscription found on its sides.

How fitting for it to be for the ‘Fantasy’ section.

The next door you look over says ‘Mystery’ in those big, bold letters. It really reminds you heavily of a castle, and once you read the plaque, you find out why.

“Deep within the stone walls, terror lurks. A monstrous creature thirsting for blood. Some call it a beast, while others never get a chance as it steals their last breath. Can you uncover the monster lurking in these walls? Can you survive the cold, dreaded night?”

Your eyebrows raise in contemplation as you move onto the next door. It’s the steel one with the circular handle.

Glancing at the plaque, your heart skips a beat in your chest. Lines of code seem to be engraved upon the bronze to serve as the description. Lines of code which you recognize, especially considering the door proudly reads ‘Sci-fi’ as you walk passed.

The final door in the row reads ‘History’, and it is the only one you actively reach out and touch. It’s cool against the skin of your hand, but you find yourself recoiling quickly at the rumble you feel shake the door. Reading the description, you find out why.

“War-torn and forlorn, a husband desperately longs to see his wife instead of the gruesome sight of the dead and injured littering the battlefield. Never has there been such bloodshed since The Great War, and five years in, the world just longs for it to end. However, Europe isn’t the only battlefield this soldier has to brave, but does he have the courage to fight for and defend what is his?”

A slight hum escapes you as you finish reading the plaque, nodding to yourself as you move over towards the grate to your left. Crouching down, you read the final plaque for ‘Horror’.

“Mother is god in the eyes of a child.”

You seemingly breathe a sigh of relief. “Oh, thank god.”

Standing back to your full height, you notice Seonghwa standing a little tense off to the side.

“What?” His inquiry is somewhat short, but curious none-the-less.

“I’m assuming these plaques tell of what each section has in store?” You ask.

“You would be correct.” He confirms. “I still don’t see-“

“I’ve figured out a majority of what resides in each sections.”

Seonghwa frowns. “How?”

“Simple.” You shrug. “My husband and I-“

Immediately, your voice gets caught in your throat. You blink, fresh tears immediately springing to your eyes as you turn away from Seonghwa for the moment.

“I read a lot.” Your voice is strained as you attempt to clear your throat, wiping subtly at the few tears that manage to escape and roll down your cheeks.

Subconsciously, you grasp that ring hanging around your neck tighter. Another, thinner band of the same golden metal glints off of your own finger on your left hand.

“You’re married.” Not a question, but a statement from Seonghwa.

You glance at him from over your shoulder, unable to get a read on his expression. “I was.”

“Divorced?” Seonghwa’s brow furrows. “Many seek the wish to make the one they still love fall back in love with them-“

“He died.” 

A brief silence settles over the both of you.

This time, it’s Seonghwa who clears his throat. “My condolences.”

“I appreciate that.” You reply roughly, tightening your grip on that ring once more.

“I understand your motivations, now.” He replies, beginning to walk back towards where you first woke up. “You may start whenever you’re ready, but I highly recommend eating something first. Take as much time as you need.”

You swallow the sudden dryness in your throat, nodding your head along with his words despite the fact that he’s no longer looking in your direction.

Slowly, you begin to follow him back to the main area, your steps almost as silent as his.

“This wish…” you begin, voice much smaller than before. “Can you guarantee I’ll be able to obtain it if I do this?”

Seonghwa turns around once he reaches his desk, leaning against the front of it as he meets your eyes. “Your greatest desires at the time when you obtain the treasure will be fulfilled.”

Your own gaze narrows ever so slightly, “How do I know that I can trust you?”

“You don’t.” He hums in understanding. “But it’s either that,” his eyes flash to some point in the library off to the side, “or go back.”

“I can’t go back.” You shake your head. “Not now. Not ever. Not without him.”

Seonghwa takes a moment to observe you carefully, before seemingly nodding to himself.

“Then, My Dear,” he grins widely, and you swear his teeth suddenly look a lot more sharper than they should be, “Welcome, to the Library of Illusion.”

[theladyregret]

Drow Name Tables

Something I did as a special favor to @kimmurielsscryingmirror (@eldritchmist ) who showed interest. Because it’s...pretty big I decided to make it into it’s own post.

These are a few Drow naming tables that were originally found in an issue of Dragon Magazine. It’s two d100 tables of prefixes and suffixes commonly used in first names. The second couple of tables is a list of common house name prefixes and suffixes.

EDIT: Just a little something for those who care which I didn’t add before because it took me so long to finish the transcription I just wanted to post it lol. The gender difference is noted in the related Dragon Magazine article as being significant. Non Drow may not notice but a Drow will notice the difference. Female names sometimes borrow parts that are normally only considered male and this is considered fine...but a male with a name that borrows a typically only female part would be seen as extremely taboo.

Prefix (Female/Male) - Meaning

Akor/Alak                 beloved, best, first

Alaun/Alton             lightning, powerful

Aly/Kel                     legendary, singing, song

Ang/Adin                  beast, monstrous, savage

Ardul/Amal               blessed, divine, godly

Aun/Ant                   crypt, dead, deadly, death

Bae/Bar                      fate, fated, luck, lucky

Bal/Bel                       burned, burning, fire, flame

Belar/Bruh                 arrow, lance, piercing

Briz/Berg                    graceful, fluid, like water

Bur/Bhin                     craft, crafty, sly

Chal/Chasz                earth, stable

Char/Kron                  sick, venom, venomed

Chess/Cal                  noble, lady/lord

Dhaun                          infested, plague

Dil/Dur                         cold, ice, still

Dirz/Div                       dream, dreaming, fantasy

Dris/Riz                        ash, dawn, east, eastern

Eclav/Elk                      chaos, mad, madness

Elvan/Kalan                 elf, elven, far, lost

Elv/Elaug                     drow, mage, power

Erel/Rhyl                      eye, moon, spy

Ethe/Erth                    mithril, resolute

Faer/Selds                   oath, sworn, vow

Felyn/Fil                       pale, thin, weak, white

Filf/Phar                     dwarf, dwarven, treacherous

Gauss/Orgoll              dread, fear, feared, vile

G'eld                              friend, spider  

Ghuan                           accursed, curse, unlucky

Gin/Din                         berserk, berserker, orc, wild

Grey/Gul                       ghost, pale, unliving

Hael/Hatch                   marked, trail, way

Hal/Sol                           deft, nimble, spider-like  

Houn/Rik                       magic, ring, staff

Iiv/Dip                             liege, war, warrior

Iim                                   life, living, spirit, soul

Illiam/Im                         devoted, heart, love

In/Sorn                           enchanted, spell

Ilph                                  emerald, green, lush, tree

Irae/Ilzt                           arcane, mystic, wizard

Irr/Izz                               hidden, mask, masked

Iym/Ist                            endless, immortal  

Jan/Duag                       shield, warded

Jhael/Gel                       ambitious, clan, kin, family

Jhul/Jar                         charmed, rune, symbol

Jys/Driz                         hard, steel, unyielding

Lael/Llt                           iron, west, western

Lar/Les                          binding, bound, law, lawful

LiNeer/Mourn            legend, legendary, mythical  

Lird/Ryld                   brand, branded, owned, slave

Lua/Lyme                       bright, crystal, light

Mal/Malag                     mystery, secret

May/Mas                         beautiful, beauty, silver

Micar                                lost, poison, widow

Min/Ran                           lesser, minor, second

Mol/Go                            blue, storm, thunder, wind

Myr/Nym                       lost, skeleton, skull

Nath/Mer                        doom, doomed, fate

Ned/Nad               cunning, genius, mind, thought

Nhil/Nal                 fear, gorrible, horror, outraged

Neer                                  core, root, strong

Null/Nil                             sad, tear, weeping

Olor/Omar                       skin, tattoo, tattooed

Pellan/Relon                    north, platiunum, wind

Phaer/Vorn                      honor, honored

Phyr/Phyx                        bless, blessed, blessing

Qualn/Quil                        mighty, ocean, sea

Quar                                   aged, eternal, time

Quav/Quev                        charmed, docile, friend

Qil/Quil                               foe, goblin, slave

Rauv/Welv                         cave, rock, stone

Ril/Ryl                                 foretold, omen

Sbat/Szor                           amber, yellow

Sab/Tsab                            abyss, empty, void  

Shi'n/Kren                          fool, foolish, young

Shri/Ssz                             silk, silent  

Shur/Shar                          dagger, edge, stiletto

Shynt                                 invisible, skilled, unseen

Sin/Szin                              festival, joy, pleasure

Ssap/Tath                          blue, midnight, night

Susp/Spir                           learned, skilled, wise

Talab/Tluth                        burn, burning, fire

Tal/Tar                         love, pain, wound, wounded

Triel/Taz                           bat, winged

T'riss/Teb                           blade, sharp, sword  

Ulvir/Uhls                           gold, golden, treasure

Umrae/Hurz                       faith, faithful, true

Vas/Vesz                            blood, bloody, flesh

Vic                                       abyss, deep, profound

Vier/Val                               black, dark, darkness

Vlon/Wod                           bold, hero, heroic

Waer/Wehl             deep, hidden, south, southern  

Wuyon/Wruz                      humble, third, trivial

Xull/Url                                 blooded, crimson, ruby

Xun                                       demon, fiend, fiendish

Yas/Yaz                       riddle, spinning, thread, web

Zar/Zakn                             dusk, haunted, shadow

Zebey/Zek                        dragon, lithe, rage, wyrm

Zes/Zsz                              ancient, elder, respected

Zilv/Vuz                             forgotten, old, unknown

Suffixes (Female/Male) - Meaning

a/agh                  breaker, destruction, end, omega

ace/as                                savant, scholar, wizard

ae/aun                             dance, dancer, life, player

aer/d                                    blood, blood of, heir

afae/afein                         bane, executioner, slayer

afay/aufein                        eyes, eyes of, seer

ala/launim                          healer, cleric

anna/erin                            advisor, counselor to

arra/atar                             queen/prince

aste                                      bearer, keeper, slaver

avin/aonar                           guardian, guard, shield

ayne/al                       lunatic, maniac, manic, rage

baste/gloth                         path, walker

breena/antar                   matriach/patriarch, ruler

bryn/lyn                               agent, assassin, killer

cice/roos                             born of, child, young  

cyrl/axle                               ally, companion, friend

da/daer                                illusionist, trickster

dia/drin                                rogue, stealer

diira/diirn                             initiate, sister/brother

dra/zar                                  lover, match, mate  

driira/driirn                         mother/father, teacher  

dril/dorl                                 knight, sword, warrior

e                                           servant, slave, vessel

eari/erd                                 giver, god, patron

eyl                                       archer, arrow, flight, flyer

ffyn/fein                               minstrel, singer, song

fryn              champion, victor, weapon, weapon of

iara/ica                                 baron, duke, lady/lord  

ice/eth                                 obsession, taker, taken  

idil/imar           alpha, beginning, creator of, maker

iira/inid                                 harbinger, herald

inidia                                     secret, wall, warder

inil/in                                     lady/lord, rider, steed

intra                               envoy, messenger, prophet

isstra/atlab               acolyte, apprentice, student

ithra/irahc                         dragon, serpent, wyrm

jra/gos                                 beast, biter, stinger

jss                                          scout, stalker

kacha/kah                            beauty, hair, style

kiira/raen                              apostle, disciple

lay/dyn                               flight, flyer, wing, wings

lara/aghar                         cynic, death, end, victim

lin                                         arm, armor, commander

lochar                                   messenger, spider

mice/myr           bone, bones, necromancer, witch  

mur'ss                                   shadow, spy, witness

na/nar                                 adept, ghost, spirit

nilee/olil                             corpse, disease, ravager

niss/nozz                           chance, gambler, game

nitra/net                              kicker, returned, risen

nolu                                 art, artist, expert, treasure

olin                                   ascension, love, lover, lust

onia/onim                           rod, staff, token, wand

oyss/omph                       binder, judge, law, prison

qualyn                                 ally, caller, kin

quarra/net                           horde, host, legion

quiri/oj                                  aura, cloak, hide, skin

ra/or                                     fool, game, prey, quarry

rae/rar                                   secret, seeker, quest

raema/orvir                         crafter, fist, hand

raena/olvir                            center, haven, home

riia/rak                       enchanter, mage, spellcaster

ril                                 bandit, enemy, raider, outlaw

riina/ree                     enchanter, mage, spellcaster

ryna/oyn                         follower, hired, mercenary

ryne/ryn                      blooded, elder, experienced

shalee/ral                 abjurer, gaze, watch, watcher

ssysn/rysn          artifact, dweomer, sorcerer, spell

stin/trin         clan, house, merchant, of the house

stra/tran                             spider, spinner, weaver

tana/ton                           darkness, lurker, prowler

thara/tar                             glyph, marker, rune

thrae/olg                          charmer, leader, seducer

tree/tel                         exile, loner, outcast, pariah

tyrr                    dagger, poison, poisoner, scorpion

ual/dan                                speed, strider

ue/dor                                  arm, artisan, fingers

uit/dar                                  breath, voice, word

une/diin                         diviner, fate, future, oracle

uque                              cavern, digger, mole, tunnel  

urra/dax                       nomad, renegade, wanderer

va/ven                             comrade, honor, honored

vayas                         forge, forger, hammer, smith

vyll punishment, scourge, whip, zealot  

vyrae/vyr                     mistress/master, overseer

wae/hrae                           heir, inheritor, princess

wiira/hriir                           seneschal of, steward

wyss/hrys                          best, creator, starter

xae/zaer                             orb, rank, ruler, sceptor

xena/zen                         cutter, gem, jewel, jeweler

xyra/zyr                             sage, teller

yl                                          drow, woman/man

ylene/yln         handmaiden/squire, maiden/youth

ymma/inyon                      drider, feet, foot, runner

ynda/yrd        captain, custodian, marshal, ranger  

ynrae/yraen                       heretic, rebel, riot, void

vrae                                   architect, founder, mason  

yrr                                         protector, rival, wielder

zyne/zt                                finder, hunter

House Name Prefixes - Meaning

Alean                        the noble line of

Ale                             traders in

Arab                          daughters of

Arken                        mages of

Auvry                        blood of the  

Baen                          blessed by

Barri                           spawn of

Cladd                         warriors from

Desp                          victors of

De                               champions of

Do'                              walkers in

Eils                              lands of

Everh                         the caverns of

Fre                              friends of

Gode                          clan of  

Helvi                          those above

Hla                              seers of

Hun'                           the sisterhood of

Ken                            sworn to

Kil                               people of

Mae                           raiders from  

Mel                            mothers of

My                              honored of

Noqu                         sacred to

Orly                            guild of

Ouss                           heirs to

Rilyn                           house of  

Teken'                        delvers in  

Tor                               mistresses of

Zau                              children of

House Name Suffixes - Meaning

afin                              the web

ana                               the night

ani                                the widow

ar                                   poison

arn                                fire

ate                                the way

ath                                the dragons

duis                              the whip

ervs                              the depths

ep                                  the underdark

ett                                 magic

ghym                            the forgotten ways

iryn                               history

lyl                                  the blade

mtor                             the abyss

ndar                              black hearts

neld                              the arcane

rae                                 fell powers

rahel                             the gods

rret                                the void

sek                                 adamantite

th                                    challenges

tlar                                 mysteries

t'tar                                victory

tyl                                   the pits

und                                 the spider's kiss

urden                             the darkness

val                                   silken weaver

viir                                  dominance

zynge                             the ruins

[gl1tch3doracle]

⊹ ࣪ ˖ twilight showers ˖ ࣪⊹

First oneshot, so ofc I had to do the queen of cool herself, Quanxi. I'm absolutely weak for this woman.

➸ Quanxi + !Fem!Reader

➸ Word count; 2,093 words,

➸ Y'know, probably set sometime during part 2, but I wouldn't know when. No major spoilers aside from the fiends.

➸ No content warnings either. Just some hurt/comfort ♡ (Although I would say it's been a little while since I've written something, so it might be a little wonky 'cause I'm rusty). Constructive criticism is greatly appreciated!

Night befallen - Twinkling lights across a rather solemn concrete jungle, all blurred by the flurry of raindrops pinstriping against a benumbing glass pane. From up in your apartment, it all seemed like a well-put-together maze of harrowing misfortunes that seemed to follow almost every citizen of Kyoto. Somewhere down there was a family ruined by a devil attack, a partner mourning their lost loved one, children crying because their friends had been ripped away without explanation. All events that could happen to you at a moment's notice - The coin could flip and land heads up, and it would be lights out before you might even notice.

That was a thought that occasionally tickled your brain. Every few weeks or so, most likely foretold by a day's event. It could've been a devil attack that jostled your mind - or even just a shitty day at work. It always came at night specifically, though, which was absolutely perfect when you were trying to get to sleep.

It was sad to think about, the way people's lives were cut clean on such short notice, which is why you tried not to do that all too often. That wasn't as easy as it sounded, especially when, unlike the others who had to live with their chosen reality, you were pretty safe and well-off all things considered. It manifested in a welt of guilt swelling in your chest, and that was the reason when night fell like it had fallen all those times before, you still slept on and off, swaddled up in your bed.

No nightmares plagued you and no misfortune befell you, because you were wholly safe - Especially when you were wrapped in the arms of your girlfriend. Someone would have to be an idiot to attempt on your life; Devil, human or fiend, it didn't matter, because Quanxi would cut them down with scary proficiency like she'd done so many times in the past.

That was most nights, anyway. The warm feeling of safety and Quanxi would not lull you to sleep tonight. The bed was empty and cold, blankets strewn over the edge, pillows tossed and tucked under your head and over your arm. It wasn't that rare for Quanxi to be stuck deep in the alleyways working, but it didn't make you feel any less lonely.

Outside, the storm grew heavier. The windows rattled.

Every time the rain stuck your window, every time the wind pulled against the structure of your building, every time a piercing howl or screech cut through the veil, you felt yourself flinch into the comfort of your plush duvet. You were safe, that you knew, but it was an instinct in every human to fear devils or something. At least, it felt instinctual for you, because being scared of creatures and beings that craved your pain sort've felt natural.

Although, among the melody of the stormed city, there was another sound hidden amongst all the others. Beyond the furious tapping of the rain, the whirling of the wind, the honks of traffic and whatever far-away noises plagued the world surrounding you, there was one, tiny, sharp sound that ricocheted in your ears. It would've been so easy to miss it, and yet you couldn't help but zero in on it like a homing beacon.

Like the sound of a bird tapping curiously at the glass, similar to a singular dense raindrop pattering against the frame or the friendly waving of your houseplants' leaves drawn to the beaming sun.

Or, even perhaps, if you stretched the idea far enough, like an arrowhead plinking against rain-pattered glass.

You chuckled. That thought was a bit overly specific, although not for lack of reason. However, if it was the arrowhead, it was better to go check, just to make sure.

The floor was startlingly cold underneath your bare feet, enough to make you wince, but not enough to send you back under your blankets. The window wasn't far, after all, a few paces to your left. You could already see her figure staunchly squatted on the windowsill, her back to the wind with her hair whipped back and forth.

Quanxi was without her swords, clean of blood and grime but drenched from head to toe from the storm.

You yawned and cracked open the window, letting her slink silently, almost peacefully, from the rugged weather outside into the comfort of your twilight bedroom.

"Quanxi?" Her name was soft on your lips. She stilled in front of you, mouth drawn into a thin line, twitched downward at the corners. She was an enigma, one you were slowly unwrapping and figuring out for yourself. A mystery that only let her guard for one person, and that one person was you.

She didn't say anything, only shrugged off her suit jacket and wrapped her cold, muscled arms around you, tugging you into an embrace that smelled strongly of men's cologne - Cedar and cashmere, underlined by a tinge of bloody iron and sharp rain. The way she twitched softly, fingers digging inwards as she tugged you closer, twining them into your hair as she sweetly kissed your forehead. Protective, anxious, almost lost seaming.

Also, as you may've mentioned, she was thoroughly drenched - Carrying a sheen of rain, heavy enough to dampen your clothes and chill your skin as well. Usually, you would've laughed at the action, maybe called her silly as she rolled her eyes playfully, cracking a rare smile. But tonight was not the night, tinged with sadness and longing. It was a sense in her eye, and in the way she held you so close and dear to her heart, literally and metaphorically.

You sighed and kissed whatever part of her you could reach - Cold skin dappled with raindrops. Quanxi sighed softly, melting ever so slightly as the heat from your love and the room thawed her bones.

"Go have a shower," You murmured into her. Quanxi grunted.

"Don't wanna." You rolled your eyes and gently shoved her in the direction of your bathroom. She battered her eyelashes at you, pursed her lips and set you with a look that would've made you shake if it weren't for the emphasised pout she gave you.

"You're freezing. Go have a shower," You pointed accusingly at her, which prompted nothing more than a quirked eyebrow. A part of you was more than glad that Quanxi was home again, but another, more tired part of you didn't want to deal with her stubbornness at one in the morning.

"You are not getting in that bed freezing cold and wet," You didn't wait for her to respond, verbally or otherwise, and instead returned to the lukewarm embrace of your bed and blankets. The almost silent pattering of Quanxi's footsteps out of the bedroom, echoing into the bathroom. The spattering of shower water followed soon after, steam billowing out from the door and spilling into the hallway.

You sniffled and rolled over, burrowing your face into the nearest pillow. Time seemed like an infallible concept as you listened to the sounds of rapid water showering across tiles. The repetitive lapping sound filled your senses, a subtle humidity filled the apartment, scents of soap and petrichor pleasantly swarmed your nose. The minutes slipped through your fingers, metaphorically, sleep weighing on your eyelids. You blinked, and it seemed in a moment Quanxi had re-entered the room with a slicked-back mess of wet silver atop her head and a towel in hand.

She blinked once and held out the towel in a silent question. You yawned and slid out of bed a second time that night, following your girlfriend into the bathroom.

Resting in front of the mirror, Quanxi closed her eye in contentment as you worked the water from her hair, patting it down to get the most of the water out. That itself was no easy feat, so, being as tired as you were, you whipped out the hairdryer. It was a loud, ebbing sound in your ears, but you couldn't give a crap as you watched the stress slowly seep from the muscles in Quanxi's shoulders.

"How often do you brush your hair?" You murmured against the back of her head. The brush in your hand was snagged against another knot. If Quanxi heard your question, she didn't make any motion that she would answer it - Instead, her fingers traced over the lace of her favourite choker. Even as you worked the kinks out of her hair, smoothing her silver locks till they were smooth and dry enough that your pillows wouldn't be wet in the morning, you couldn't help but notice that her attention would never drift from the fabric.

Hair dried, Quanxi insisted she would be fine to just slip into some pyjamas. You pointedly didn't point out the gooseflesh skittering up and down her arms and instead kissed her behind her ear before leaving for the bedroom for what you hoped was the last time.

The bed was cold. You sniffled and sighed, pulling the blankets over your head as you scavenged together the various pillows that had been tossed all over the bed. You only resurfaced once the click of the bedroom door opening resounded throughout the otherwise pin-drop silence, Quanxi silently walked in afterwards.

Her shoulders were bare, the only part that way highlighted by the sliver of moonlight escaping through the tumultuous clouds. She cast a look in your direction, eyepatch now removed. You didn't even flinch at the empty hole in her face, but rather, your eyes were drawn to the lace collar still firmly twined around her neck.

Quanxi seemed off. Her fingers brushed slowly over the lace as she pulled a shirt over her head.

"Do you miss them?" You'd spent enough time just watching her, listening to the sounds Quanxi made and studying the way she worked. You could tell when she was disheartened, sad even, in the most minuscule meaning of the word. Even if it did feel like a stab in the dark, the moment she stilled for more than a second settled your thoughts.

"Sometimes. Yes," Quanxi finished getting dressed, suddenly seeming a lot smaller without her loose ponytail. Silver cascaded over her shoulders and down her back, tangled and shining as she shimmied into bed next to you.

You knew about her fiends. They all were important to Quanxi, held near and dear in her heart, especially in death. You'd never met them, but you had no qualms with Quanxi keeping a few pictures on hand (and in your apartment). Perhaps in another life, you would've lived side by side with them, all a part of Quanxi's little self-made family. Your big bed certainly would've been useful in that case, six warm bodies all snuggled up under the blankets on a night like tonight.

As selfish and greedy as it sounded, there was a little part of you that was happy to have Quanxi all to yourself. Still, you just gave her a small smile, tired, and pulled her into your embrace.

Quanxi didn't cry. You didn't think anything in this world could make Quanxi cry, but she was shaking. Small, violent tremors that you wouldn't have felt if it weren't for the fact she was pressed against the pulse point in your neck. Your arms circled her neck, loosely looped around her warmth as your wrists rested gently against the cloth of her choker - A sensation that made your skin itchy, but, with your girlfriend planted firmly in your embrace, you were not willing to move a muscle. It was a rarity that Quanxi let you hold her so openly, so closely, her face pressed against you in such a manner your legs had to tangle together underneath the sheets.

Her breaths rolled over you in uneven puffs, heat against your skin in a way that pleasantly tingled and instilled a feeling of drowsiness. It was peaceful, in a sense of the word, and you were more than willing to let sleep take you. Nestled up against her, head held carefully in your arms with her warmth a constant ebb and flow against the biting chill outside, you couldn't help but answer the lulling call of sleep.

Quanxi pursed her lips, feeling your breath even out below her ear. It felt comfortable, soothing even. Although she knew she wouldn't sleep tonight (she hardly ever did anymore), spending the time listening to the rain outside, the pulsing of your heart all while she tried to bury the memories of her past deep within her subconscious.

[satancopilotsmytardis]

"He thinks his instincts might make him explode from his joy and the purrs coming out of his chest when, halfway through the night, Shigaraki loosens up and pulses out the scent of his own contentment. It blankets the nest in the scent of summer rain and Dabi all but turns into a puddle."

Dabs is so messy in this, love it. If any of the league has been around cohabitating alphas and omegas before they're probably side-eyeing him so hard 

Side note how insane must dating shows get in the omegaverse 💀

"His mouth settles on his neck, licking and nibbling at the place where his glands should be strong-- and Dabi whimpers."

Swirling him around in a wine glass. Mm notes of insecurity. Delicious

"And since you're the only alpha around, and I don't want to be fucking myself stupid while everyone else is out on the summer camp job--" 

Lmao poor shig no wonder he wore a cage. Dabi cringes at the idea of being bonded, hides his growing affection with his weaker scent, really does not give him much hope at first

I love needy shig so much, and I like how rarely you write him, he deserves to be a special treat

The position in this is so good. I'm assuming it's based off that oxygen fanart <3 

"Knot me, please, want your cum in my cunt. Pump me full of your pups --"

Oh god that's what made him cum 💀 I'm imagining him clarifying later, "No I don't want pups, you just made me that horny"

You've given me such a soft spot for the pet name precious

"After the summer camp, during my next heat, mate me?" *insert honey, you got a big storm comin gif* 

it's okay guys, I wouldn't be shocked if you've already bonded without a real bite like Ujiko mentioned. If not, can't hurt to get to know each other a little more

We LOVE messy bitch Dabi!!!! He should be a conflicted over-emotional mess who has a hard time with regulation!!! It's as what was foretold in the texts!!!

A dating show in the Omegaverse would be WILD. Like the DRAMA??? Two alpha's going in for each other because one is a service/soft top the other thinks is an omega and the other is sadist dom that everyone thinks is a bratty omega with a complex. The producers not letting anyone hook up or do anything more risqué than kissing because if they did they might figure designations out. Betas being the ones who are the best at actually guessing what everyone's designations are and consistently demonstrating the best ability to connect with the others and form strong relationships because they've been socialized their whole lives to know that they will never be an alpha or omega's first pick as a partner because they can't satisfy their instincts. Everyone tunes in for a dating show but it ends up being a social experiment lol

Tomura was bound and determined to not do a damn thing that would cause pack instability and he was absolutely not going to mate Dabi without him wanting that, a week locked in a cock cage was a suffering he would happily endure! But God damn that man's ego was getting rocked at every turn from Dabi, like how do you recover from admitting you have a crush on someone who wants to use you as a dildo and then seems equal parts disgusted and amused by your crush? Devastating, but he persists!!!

Absolutely utilized reverse cowgirl because Oxygen has done a lot of art (both newer and older) in that position and it is delectable

Lol Shig knows he's sterile, and he'd get that Dabi was just trying to play to his instincts, if anything Dabi would laugh at him because that worked and Shig would be sitting there with his head in his hands for a few seconds out of embarrassment before he pins Dabi down and gives him like 6 more creampies murmuring in his ear how pretty he'd look carrying their babies until Dabi's instincts triggered and he was FURIOUSLY going around base baby proofing things KNOWING he was being fully irrational and that neither of them actually want kids, but they have to pretend that maybe they do because otherwise the rest of the League will catch onto their breeding kink

I'm so glad that "precious" has become a staple petname for my fics and you guys like it! I live my life waiting for a gollum comment every time I use it

Lol the funny thing is that they've BEEN mated!! For almost the whole story!! Like Dabi starts calling him his alpha during his heats almost immediately and it didn't take them fucking or anything! It just took Dabi trusting Shig to take care of him and Duster proving he would do that and both of their brains latched onto each other!! But they can be official soon, I imagine in a month or two (held off by the stress of being homeless again) they have their shared cycle, take their bites, and then realize literally nothing feels different and have to go back to the doctor and he's just like: You Stupid Motherfuckers

Thank you so much for commenting!

[church-history]

Geological and Historical Evidence for Jesus’ Crucifixion Account

At Jesus’ crucifixion, Matthew (27:45-54) reported “From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land. About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’ (cf., Psalm 22)…And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. At that moment, the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many people. When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, ‘Surely he was the son of God!’”

Matthew’s passage includes two events that can be historically and geologically confirmed: (1) Darkness covered the land for three hours (c.f., Matthew 27:45; Mark 15:33; Luke 23:44-45) and (2) An earthquake occurred.

“At that same moment about noontide, the day was withdrawn; and they, who knew not that this was foretold concerning Christ, thought it was an eclipse. But this you have in your archives; you can read it there. Yet nailed upon the cross, Christ exhibited many notable signs, by which his death was distinguished from all others. At his own free-will, he with a word dismissed from him his spirit, anticipating the executioners’ work. In the same hour, too, the light of day was withdrawn, when the sun at the very time was in his meridian blaze. Those who were not aware that this had been predicted about Christ, no doubt thought it was an eclipse.” 

-  Tertullian (197 AD), Jewish Consul

“In the 4th year of the 202nd Olympiad, there was a great eclipse of the sun, greater than had ever been known before, for at the 6th hour the day was changed into night and the stars were seen in the heavens. An earthquake occurred in Bythinia and overthrew a great part of the city of Nicaea.”

- Phlegon (2nd century AD) Greek historian, “Olympiads”

“With regard to the eclipse in the time of Tiberius Caesar, in whose reign Jesus appears to have been crucified, and the great earthquakes which then took place, Phlegon too I think has written in the 13th or 14th book of his Chronicles…Celsus imagines also that both the earthquake and darkness were an invention, but regarding these, we have in the preceding pages made our defense, according to our ability, adducing the testimony of Phlegon, who relates that these events took place at the time when our Savior suffered.” 

- Origen (184 – 253 AD), Greek scholar and early Christian father who confirmed Phlegon’s writings

“Jesus Christ underwent his passion in the 18th year of Tiberius [33 AD]. Also at that time in another Greek compendium we find an event recorded in these words: ‘the sun was eclipsed, Bithynia was struck by an earthquake, and in the city of Nicaea many buildings fell.”

- Eusebius (315 AD), Historian of the Emperor Constantine.

What Caused the Three-hour Period of Darkness?

Before determining that the three-hour period of darkness is due to supernatural causes, we must rule out the natural possibilities. We have experienced natural events that have caused darkness during the daylight hours. These include when volcanoes erupt and emit dark clouds and when storms occur and cover the sky with clouds. Yet no Biblical or secular sources indicate any support for a volcanic explosion or storms, so we can rule out those two natural events.

What about an eclipse? The positioning of the sun and moon is required to answer this question. We have much support for the dating of Jesus’ crucifixion on Friday the 14th of Nissan in the year 33 (April 3, 33). This date was further predicted in the book of Daniel (9). Passovers only occurred during a full moon, so an eclipse would not have been possible due to the moon’s location on the far side of the earth away from the sun. Even if the positioning were conducive to an eclipse, eclipses only darken the earth for short moments, not for three hours, so we have another reason to rule out that natural option.

Is the Best Explanation to Explain this Event a Supernatural Explanation?

I will let readers answer that question for themselves.

Geological Support for the Earthquake                                     

Scholars have reported that devastating earthquakes occurred in Jerusalem during Christ’s death (Mallet, 1853; Rigg, 1941). This occurred in a region that includes the Dead Sea fault, which is a plate boundary that separates the Arabian plate and the Sinai sub-plate (Garfunkel, 1981). This fault has been active since the Miocene (Kagan, Stein, Agnon, & Neuman, 2011) and the fault is still active today (De Liso & Fidani, 2014). The fault extends from the Red Sea in the south to the Taurus Mountains in the north.

Kagan and colleagues (2011) analyzed seismites in the Holocene Dead Sea basin by constructing two age-depth chronological models based on atmospheric radiocarbon ages of short-lived organic debris with a Bayesian model. Seismites are sedimentary beds and structures, which are deformed by seismic shaking. The scholars analyzed seismites in different areas of the basin, finding that several synchronous seismites appeared in all sections during particular years, including 33 AD (+/- 2 sigma; 95% confidence interval). Other years in which earthquakes occurred as evidenced by seismites are (AD unless otherwise noted): 1927, 1293, 1202/1212, 749, 551, 419, 33, 31 BC, and mid-century B.C.

After analyzing laminated sedimentary cores recovered at the shores of the Dead Sea, Migowski, Agnon, Bookman, Negendank, and Stein (2004) also confirmed an earthquake in 33 AD with a magnitude of 5.5. They documented earthquakes around 33 AD in 31 BC and 76 AD. The scholars analyzed seismites using radiocarbon dating.

Ben-Menahem (2014) conducted a literature review of empirical studies over 4,000 years of seismicity along the Dead Sea Rift. The scholar referenced the aforementioned studies along with one by Enzel, Kadan, and Eyal (2000) before concluding that earthquakes occurred in Masada in 31 BC, Jerusalem in 33 AD, and near Nablus in 64 AD.

In summary, the literature on seismicity along the Dead Sea basin supports the assertion that an earthquake occurred either in or very close to the year 33 AD.

We can pinpoint the date even closer – to April 3, 33. A United States government federal agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, has documented the major earthquakes throughout history. According to their website (NOAA.gov), in 33 AD, an earthquake occurred at the crucifixion of Jesus Christ in Bithynia and Palestine and Palestine, Jerusalem.

Conclusion

In summary, we have extensive extra-biblical support for the accounts of darkness and the earthquake during Jesus’ crucifixion. Taken together, these events support the historicity of the account of Jesus’ crucifixion.

source: abbreviated from  https://christian-apologist.com/2019/01/05/geological-and-historical-evidence-for-jesus-crucifixion-account/