#acknowledge our next tribal chief

[solo-uso]

On one hand, I don't believe Solo when he says Roman left him in charge. On the other hand.. x

[mrsarcherofinfamy]

●Solo Sikoa x Reader●

_________________________________________

*Y/N's Pov*

Standing backstage watching the TV in the hallway, I see Solo and The New Bloodline attack Paul Heyman and powerbomb him through the announcers table. I smirk a little thinking of an idea in my head as I start heading towards Nick Aldis' office. I knock on the door and he opens it.

"Oh Y/N. What can I do for you?"

"I have an idea and I want to run it by you before I do anything."

"Come in. Let's talk about it."

I walk in and he closes the door behind him.

_________________________________________

*next week on Smackdown*

*Solo's POV*

Sitting in the chair in The Bloodline locker room, I hear a knock on the door.

"Come in."

The door opens and slowly, she comes in. Hair done up into a professional looking bun and short red dress that is hugging her thighs and showing a lot of cleveage. The camera man goes from her to me as I'm trying to keep my cool and not have my jaw dropped. She walks over to me and runs her hand across my shoulder as I look up at her.

_________________________________________

*Y/N's POV*

I run my hand across his shoulder to the back of his neck looking at him.

"Heard you may be looking for a new Wiseman. Or dare I say.... wisewoman."

I smirk looking at him as he stands up. He looks down at me and puts his hand on the back of my neck making sure he has my full attention. He gets close to my face looking into my eyes.

"You do what I say. You obey me. And you acknowledge me as your tribal chief. You understand me?"

I look at him shaking my head yes and bite my lip feeling him squeeze the back of my neck. He keeps staring into my eyes and I gulp feeling his breath against my face. He lets go and moves away from me sitting back down.

"Now do me a favor and go get Tonga, Tama and Jacob for me. We have business to discuss."

"Yes sir."

I walk out of the locker room and towards the parking garage. As on que, a black suv pulls into the garage up to where I am standing. The camera man and Cathy Kelley come running up to me.

"Y/N. We just heard that you are now part of the Bloodline. What is your new role with them?"

"I'm the WiseWoman. I will be the brains behind everything they do or the opportunities they will receive. By orders of the tribal chief."

Jacob, Tama and Tonga walk up around me staring at Cathy as she runs off than at me. I look at them and smile.

"Hello boys. Our tribal chief would like to see all three of you. Now."

I start walking towards the locker room as they all follow me. The camera man leaves.

_________________________________________

*later in the night*

I walk into our locker room seeing Solo sitting down on his chair, Tonga and Tama sitting on the couch, and Jacob standing behind Solo with his arms crossed. I walk up to Solo as he stands up looking into my eyes again.

"My tribal chief. I got you guys a six man tag match against Kevin, Randy and Cody at Money in the Bank. So you can finally end the problem that is those three."

Solo runs his hand across my cheek than to behind my neck again making me look at him. He gets close to my face as everyone is staring at him.

"That's great news. You will prove yourself loyal to the Bloodline when you accompany us to the ring for that match and help us."

I shake my head yes as his face is just a few inches away from mine. I gulp looking into his eyes. He looks back at the guys and they shake their heads knowing what Solo is saying without actually saying anything. They all leave the room and Solo's eyes come back on me. He holds onto my neck taking his other hand and running his thumb over my bottom lip. I slightly bite my lip looking at him. He grabs my face kissing me hard. I kiss him back as he slowly sits down on the chair and I climb on his lap not breaking the kiss. We start making out for a few minutes before he pulls back looking at me with a smirk.

"Think I am going to keep you around as my wisewoman for a long time."

[visionarymode]

Acknowledgement

✧ warnings: smut, language, 18+

✧ pairing: roman reigns x female reader

✧ word count: 2,397

“Y-yes my tribal chief.” Paul fearfully stuttered as he got up in a hurry and left the room as he obeyed the tribal chief’s orders. Roman let out an annoyed and impatient sigh as he glared at Paul with those piercing evil eyes. The screen transitioned into the crowd as AJ Styles’ entrance music hit with the bell ringing to indicate the start of a new match segment. was sitting at the mini table backstage as she just finished watching Roman on TV in his backstage segment for the night. She loved watching him in character because he was so damn brilliant at what he does. There was truly no one like him. Not to mention his incredible dedication and sexy execution of his character…the tribal chief. Roman was the perfect man but my god, something about the tribal chief just made her want to jump through the screen and as he always says, acknowledge him, in many different explicit ways she could imagine. She sat there as her sexual frustration built up not being able to forget that segment or his fine self. you know what? She thought to herself. She grabbed her phone and got up to walk down the hallway. She was about to send him a text before she abruptly bumped into someone.

“Oh my god I’m so sorry-“ she stopped to notice who it was. Paul Heyman. 

“Someone’s eager to get to her destination.” he joked as he crossed his arms raising his eyebrow. Oh, he has no idea…

“I just tend to walk fast Paul that’s all!” she giggled as she crossed her arms as well. “Is he still in his locker room?” she questioned as if he’d know the answer. 

“Yes he is. he has some free time before our next segment in about half an hour.” he patted my shoulder as he continued to walk past her. 

“Thank you Wiseman!” she called out jokingly. She continued her walk until she stopped to read what was in front of the door to her right. Roman Reigns. finally. 

She left two quick little knocks on the door before opening it to see him lying up comfortably on the black leather couch scrolling through his phone. He looked up and immediately put his phone down as he flashed his pearly whites smiling in response to her presence. 

“Hey baby.” he greeted her as he got up from the couch.

She locked the door behind her and she started walking towards him to embrace him. He picked her up as she wrapped her arms around his neck and legs around his waist. She giggled as she broke away to look at him. He looked so fucking sexy. When did he not though? His hair was slicked back in his usual bun, and his thick salt and pepper beard glistened from the oil he put on it to make it shine. He was wearing his 1000 days t-shirt with his track jacket over it zipped down.

“What?” he chucked. 

“Nothing you just look so…fucking…sexy.” she paused after each word to peck his lips. 

“Yeah?” he seductively mumbled against her lips trying to slide his tongue into her mouth. She granted access as she sucked on it. she broke the kiss for a split second to respond. 

“Yeah…”  

“You’re so…fucking….beautiful.” He mimicked her actions pausing after each word to leave sloppy kisses on each side of her neck. 

“Mmm I was watching your backstage segment and I don’t know. Something about the tribal chief makes me so horny…” she whispered in his ear. 

“Ahhh I see. You wanted to pay the tribal chief a visit huh?” he asked as he moved his hands from her waist down to her ass and grabbed a handful. 

“I just wanted to stop by & acknowledge you properly…” 

He lifted his face from her neck to look at her and smirked. Before she had a chance to say anything else, he sat her down on the leather couch. He leaned in to lift her chin and kissed her slowly and passionately. He rubbed her thighs up & down without breaking eye contact as he licked his lips admiring how beautiful she was. 

She could feel her panties get more and more damp with each motion of his hands. 

“The tribal chief really appreciates you putting time aside for him.” he professed. 

His rubbing turned into massages as he slowly moved his way up to her thighs spreading them slowly apart. 

��Oh does he now?” she asked playfully, but was screaming on the inside as her breath hitched in her throat. 

He left sloppy kisses all over her inner thighs before he stopped abruptly and noticed how wet she already was.

“Mmm look at you…” he muttered under his breath as he swiftly ran two fingers down her panties. 

“I haven’t even touched you yet…” he stopped mid-sentence to run his tongue over her damp panties. 

“…and you’re already dripping wet for daddy.” His eyes remained on hers as he grabbed her panties with his teeth & slowly ripped them off of her. If she could, she could cum right this second. 

“Tell me how much…” he spread her folds apart as she felt his breath on her wet pussy.

“…you acknowledge me.” 

“I acknow-“ Before she could finish her sentence she gasped as she felt his thick tongue swirl over her clit. 

“What was that baby?” he mumbled as he lapped his tongue up and down steadily yet slowly as he stared her down. She let out a moan that couldn’t be prevented and that was his cue to cover her mouth with his hand as the other pulled her right thigh over his shoulder to pull her closer. She managed to moan louder than before despite his hand being over her mouth as he ate her out like it was his last meal on earth. She suddenly felt him pull away which caused her to drop her jaw as she panted in frustration. 

“Wh- why’d you sto-“ 

“Shhhh. Who told you you could question the tribal chief huh?” he glared at her not to the point where she felt hurt but to the point where she was heavily turned on. She shook her head as she understood what he was doing. he wasn’t gonna break character. damn, he’s so good. 

“Or are you gonna be a good girl and do what daddy says?” he asked raising his eyebrows. She nodded her head eagerly so he could just put his mouth back on her needy and aching pussy. He set her thigh back down on the couch as he pulled his shirt over his head exposing his chiseled and tanned body. His tattoos on his pec & right arm were in full view as she bit her lip yearning for him. He grabbed her hand to pull her upwards in a seated position inches away from his face. He rolled up the shirt and stuffed it in her mouth. 

“Since you can’t control yourself this is what we gon' have to do huh?” 

Their eyes stayed locked for what felt like an eternity before he gently grabbed her by the throat and pushed her back on the couch.

“Now be a good girl and let daddy eat his pussy.” He dragged her legs towards him in the quickest motion and folded her so her knees were touching her shoulders. He kept his eyes on her as he let a long drop of spit slowly fall into her pussy. She was holding onto the back of her knees whimpering into the shirt that was stuffed into her mouth just moments ago so he could work on her. He used two of his fingers to spread the saliva along her entrance before he slowly slipped those same two fingers inside of her. They both moaned in unison as she was falling apart from pure pleasure. He started pumping his fingers in and out at a faster pace. Her muffled moans were growing louder and practically matched the same speed of his fingers. He licked her clit before he started sucking on it as she was on the verge of her climax. 

“Look at your pretty pussy soaking for me. you gon’ cum baby?” he asked licking his lips as he continued to finger fuck her. Her eyes were shut and her head fell back on the head of the couch as she struggled to form any words. He removed his shirt from her mouth and questioned her again. 

“Speak up baby. what’s my name?” 

“Ro-roman…” she was seconds away from releasing as she felt his fingers slow down the pace and tease their removal from inside her. 

“Nah…try that shit again.” he softly demanded. Then the lightbulb popped in her head. 

“my- my tribal chief…oh fuuuuuuuck…” she cried out as she came all up in his face as he sucked and licked every ounce of her juices making sure there wasn’t a drop left. That earth-shattering orgasm made her moan so loud that he had to bring his hand back up to clasp her mouth while he cleaned her up with his tongue. She was panting heavily as he lifted his face from in between her thighs licking his wet lips with the biggest smirk on his face. His beard was glistening but this time it wasn’t from the beard oil, it was from her. 

“Mmm there you go baby.” he praised as he winked at her. this majestic motherfucker. holy shit. 

“Now…” he started to say as he wiped her leftover cum off the corners of his mouth and sucked it off his thumb. He got up from the floor and took a seat next to her. He spread open his legs and rested his arms on opposite sides of the couch. 

“Your turn baby.” he winked while flashing his smug grin. 

She felt like she needed a breather after he just completely wore her out. She expected to come in here and finally pleasure him first for a change but he was never one to not pleasure his girl first. It was always his main priority whenever they got intimate. Making her cum before she could return the favor for daddy. 

She slid off the couch and got on her knees struggling to make eye contact because of how flushed and nervous she felt not only by his presence but by that insane fucking orgasm. His sweats and boxers slid off together as his long, hard, and pretty dick sprung up ready to be devoured. She felt her inner thighs getting hot once again as she prepared to take him all in & pleasure the fuck out of the tribal chief. He cupped her jaw as she was forced to meet his gaze. 

“Now be a good girl. open that pretty mouth and acknowledge me,” he ordered in a low voice. She quickly obeyed and started slowly stroking his shaft with one hand. Her tongue met his tip with a slow lick before swirling around it savoring his pre cum as he let out a low groan from her captivating eye contact. 

“Mmm say it…” 

“I acknowledge you, daddy,” she whispered before wrapping her lips around his tip and putting as much of him in her mouth as she could. She kept her eyes on him while sucking as his mouth slightly fell open with his head falling back. He was holding up her hair with his right hand in a slightly tight grip but she didn’t even care. She loved that he was in this vulnerable state as she had all the control to make him completely convulse and let go in her mouth. 

“Fuck baby just like that…take daddy’s dick like the good girl you are…” he struggled to finish his sentence as he groaned in pure satisfaction.

She studied him as he let out shaky pants while his left arm gripped the back arm of the couch so tight that his knuckles were turned white. She liked seeing him completely fall apart slipping out of character due to her mouth driving him completely fucking insane. Her mouth & tongue quickened the pace as she moaned around his length. He struggled to stay still and bucked his hips forward wanting her to take it all. His dick was so thick and big that she started gagging because of the struggle to fit it all in her mouth…but she didn’t give a fuck. She was enjoying this. She was enjoying fulfilling the tribal chief’s desires. 

“fuuuuck I’m cumming baby…” he groaned as she felt him getting close with tears prickling in her eyes from gagging on his dick. He gently pulled her hair back to take her off him and he let out a low moan as her tongue flicked on his tip once again. He quickly came down from his high to recover and immediately channeled his dominance. 

“Open that pretty mouth for me baby girl,” he ordered as he jerked himself with his left hand. 

She obeyed as she opened her mouth & stuck out her tongue keeping her eyes locked with his. He hummed and licked his lips and came all on her tongue as it dropped to the back of her throat. Droplets of his cum landed on her chest as they started swirling down to her breasts. He smirked at the sight of his mess all over his princess. 

“Swallow for daddy…” he instructed in a deep whisper. 

She obeyed swallowing every last drop of his seed. He wiped the leftovers on the corner of her mouth with his thumb and grazed it over her lips. 

“Say it,” he whispered slowly sticking his thumb in her mouth not taking his eyes off hers as she sucked it off and removed her mouth from his touch with a final slow lick.

“I acknowledge you…my tribal chief,” she responded with a raspy voice. He gestured for her to come sit on his lap with the flick of his finger. She was face to face with her man as he pressed his tongue flat on her chest licking up what was left of her neck and leaving soft kisses. He cupped her face as their lips were inches away before he praised her with the words she melted for once again. 

“Mhm. that’s my good girl.” 

---- thank you for reading! this is the first fanfic i’ve written so i hope y'all liked it :)

you can read more of my fics here ❤️‍🔥

tag list: @harmshake @cyberdejos2

[romanstheory]

nEXt a Roman Reigns One Shot

Warnings: language, smut, cheating, edging, Roman x fem

Word count: 1,170

18 +

nofotane - The wife of the tribal chief (according to google)

"I know what happened between you and Roman is unfortunate, but you still have to go out there and pretend to be in love with him" Paul Heyman says pestering me once again about going out to the ring and pretending. Roman and I have been broken up for months and ever god damn week I have to go out there and pretend to be his nofotane. Roman is incredible in bed, my god he's amazing..... but as a partner he's clueless. I could never get through his thick skull that maybe sometimes I want to be taken out or shown off. His tribal chief persona started leaking into our personal life and it poisoned our relationship.

"I know Paul, we've been through this before" I say tucking laces into my fresh air force ones. "We have, and you know just as well as I do that Roman can be....... A lot. I know he's been on your nerves but please just keep going..... Do it for me" Paul says bending down and placing his hand on top of mine. "Don't worry, I won't go super kicking him anytime soon" I chuckle before walking out of the room. I let out a long sigh while I walk to the curtain. Solo follows shortly after "You ready?" He asks me "I guess you could say that" I reply. "He should be coming around the corner in a second" Solo replies. He scoots over so that Roman will stand next to him and not me. Solo quickly became a close friend after Roman and I started dating, and after the split all the wanted to do was keep the peace.

"You look sexy tonight" Roman says slowly walking up, looking me up and down. "I know" I say looking at him and then away quickly. "Roman will cut his promo to give more attention to backlash….. nothing more nothing less…. Per usual. “Please behave” Paul whispers to me before the four of us head out. Roman does his normal “acknowledge me” opening and the crowd eats it up. “At backlash Je-“ Roman begins before I snatch the Mike from him and walk towards the camera. “At backlash, Jey I hope you’re ready to get chewed up and spit out. I hope you’re ready to meet your worst nightmare in the tribal chief Roman Reigns” I bark into the mic. Roman like dumbfounded, Solo and Paul are just as confused. Paul rubs his temples a closed his eyes. “But more importantly be prepared to deal with ME” I bark again. The crowd pops and the rest of the promo segment continues.

Backstage Roman grabs my arm “care to explain?” He asks. “Nah not really” I say with a laugh. “EXPLAIN” he demands, clenching his jaw and frowning his eyebrows. Whew it was so sexy the way he looked when he was angry, maybe that’s why I liked doing it so much. “I’m not your nofotane and I’m tired of pretending to be. I’m not your shadow, we’re not even together” I reply “it felt like we never even were together”. Roman paces back and fourth, that’s what he did when he was too angry to figure out words. “You’re still stuck on that?” He rebutted finally “I said I was sorry and you didn’t care. What do you want me to do?”

“I want you to fucking mean it Joe!” I scream at him. “Y’all good? Or you need a second?” Solo says looking at me and then at Roman as we approach Roman’s dressing room. “Give us a second please” I reply. Paul and Solo quickly turn around and leave. “Nothing I do is ever good enough for you” Roman barks. Rage fills my body, you could almost see steam pouring out of my ears. My emotions are everywhere. “I gave you everything Joe, EVERYTHING. Every second of my time, my undivided attention. Every piece of me and you still decided to cheat on me, and treat me like I was nothing” I say with tears escaping my eyes. I quickly rub them away “so fuck you and your sorry Joe”

He’s bull headed, never really hearing what you have to say. The room is silent for what feels like forever. “You can hate me all you want to” He says breaking the silence “I gave you good dick and paid your bills so what are you complaining about”. I jump out of my seat and seemingly levitate to him “I swear to God I hate you with everything in me” I say getting pointing at him. He grabs my face quickly, pressing our lips together and backing me into the wall.

Rage fucking was my favorite thing to do with him. It never solved anything but it made me feel better in the moment. Call it toxic, I don’t care it felt good every single time. He presses his body against mine, my heart is racing while he rips away at my clothing and me at his. He quickly and aggressively picks me up, pressing his own back against the wall this time. “I hate you so much” I mutter. “How much?” He grumbles back

“I hate you more than I’ve ever hated anyone before” I reply. He presses his length into me “promise?” He says with a smirk as a gasp escapes my lips. How could something so wrong feel so right? Our bodies crash together while he hate fucks me. I begin breathing heavy as his big muscular arms flex while they shove me deeper and deeper onto his long thick member. “Scream, you know you want to” Roman growls. “You take every inch of this dick like a good girl” he growls again

I can’t control my screams and moans, they flow out of my mouth like it’s second nature. I begin to reach my climax when Roman quickly pulls out of me “not until I say so” Roman growls. He loved edging me on, taking control, and having me in the palm of his hand. Another way for him to control the situation, it was sexy though…. But I’ll never tell him that. He lays me on my back and spreads my legs before licking my throbbing clit. He swirls his tongue around in circles lightly flicking it with his tongue. He uses one hand to pleasure himself, stroking his long hard penis. My back arches and my legs sighted around his head “oh my god oh my god!” I scream. “Yeah scream daddy’s name” He says making eye contact with me continuing to lick me perfectly. “Joe! Oh fuck!” I scream at the top of my lung. “Now cum for me” He demands. Pleasure begins to explode inside of my like a million fireworks. Roman moans softly as he releases his load onto the floor by my ass. I reach my climax, screaming and shaking rapidly. “Good girl” He says sitting up licking his lips “Now get dressed we have a flight”

[evalolxo]

Love me Like you

pairing - randy orton x reader

summary - you and randy broke up on mutual terms and you try to get over him with another superstar but the viper always comes back

warnings - fluff, randy being a twat, mentions of sex, swearing, reader has dirty thoughts, cheating

word count - 880 words

so baby, baby come and save me, don’t need those other lovers when i got my number one

“i bet he never treated you like this, huh?” roman asked me as he gave me a kiss and quickly turned away to talk to his cousins jey and jimmy.

i mentally sighed as i thought back to how i got in this predicament to start with.

randy and i had just broken up and i was drinking my feelings away at the hotel bar, that’s when i noticed the tribal chief, one thing led to another and i was laying naked with him. now we just go on dates and calls me his girlfriend to look good.

and to answer his question, randy never treated me like this, he treated me way fucking better.

randy and i dated for 4 years and roman and i have been dating for 6 months now.

i heard cheering from the room and everyone turned to see randy orton walking in the door with a brand new suit on.

i felt myself gawking at the way he looked in the suit, the way it hugged his muscles perfectly and how they showed his crotch off an appropriate amount but just enough to make me miss his cock. as if i didn’t already.

“hey baby” i was snapped out my thoughts and stare by roman who was now crouching in front of me with his cousins and heyman all looking at me disappointed.

“yeah?” i asked roman, pretending my full attention was on him while i could see out the corner of my eye randy was now watching the interaction.

randy orton made it his life’s mission to show he missed me and there was no one in the business, hell the whole word that didn’t know randy orton missed y/n l/n.

our breakup may have been mutual on the fact we didn’t have enough time with our schedules for each other and it was frustrating both mentally, physically and sexually so we decided to break up but there’s not a moment i don’t miss him.

“just wanted to make sure you’re okay, i know it must be hard seeing him” roman told me putting a hand on my knee, i had to fight the urge to roll my eyes into the back of my head at his words and demeanor.

“shit i gotta go for my match, i’ll see you later baby girl, i love you” he told me before leaving with the rest of the bloodline present and as he left i let out a sigh and an eye roll i had been holding in.

i heard a snicker and looked up to see randy watching me, i couldn’t fight the small smile that painted my face at the fact he was acknowledging me.

“can’t believe you replaced me with the tribal chief” he commented walking over to me while smirking and i rolled my eyes playfully when he sat down next to me, everyone had left the room to watch roman’s match so it was me and randy alone.

“you know you’ll always be my number one randy” i told the man who was staring at me with a smirk but his eyes were full of love and adoration.

“damn right, and you’ll always be my number one too” randy told me making me smile at him, he was nervous telling me this.

randy orton had always been nervous around me, my one power.

neither of us addressed the multiple elephants in the room.

me having a boyfriend already, getting back together, or the fact his hand had traveled to my thigh.

the sparks that flew through my leg to my stomach through his touch was a feeling i missed and i closed my eyes and smiled into the feeling.

“i love you” randy clearly stated and i stared at him surprised, he addressed an elephant.

“i love you too randy, i want to be with you but it’ll just be the same, and i’m dating roman” i explained and randy shook his head at me making me confused.

“it’ll be the same at the fact we are extremely in love with each other and we’ll be the power couple of the sports entertainment business and don’t act as if you don’t hold back screaming my name while roman fucks you” randy whispered the last part but the rest was clear as day to me, after explaining the butterflies i always got in my stomach returned for the first time in a year.

“it’ll be the same in the way we’ll have no time” i told him firmly, as much as i wanted to fall back into his arms and for him to hold me forever, our work would get in the way again.

“i’ll be waiting for you, till my dying day” randy stated before placing his hand on my cheek making me fully face him before he planted a soft kiss on my lips, the same lips that kissed me after i won all my championships, the same lips that kissed me as i cried and after i cried, the same lips that would wait for us.

[elysiangroundsforall]

Love & War

"Everything is fair in love and war"

CH-2

The next day, as the court buzzed with activity, Minister Seo Changbin sauntered over to General Seonghwa, a playful glint in his eye.

"Hey, hyung, how's life in the palace treating you?" Changbin asked with a grin, aiming to strike up a friendly conversation.

"Ah, it's alright," Seonghwa replied casually, not particularly in the mood for chitchat.

"Is it really as fancy as they say?" Changbin prodded, nudging Seonghwa with a playful elbow.

"Yeah, it's pretty fancy," Seonghwa answered, shooting Changbin a sideways glance before turning his attention elsewhere.

Changbin wasn't one to give up easily. "So, have you stumbled upon that legendary portrait of the first queen hidden in some dusty storeroom?" he teased.

Seonghwa's expression darkened slightly. "Come on, Changbin, cut it out. I'm not in the mood for jokes right now," he grumbled, his annoyance evident.

Concerned by his friend's sudden shift in demeanor, Changbin persisted. "What's up, hyung? Everything okay?"

Seonghwa waved off the concern with a dismissive wave of his hand. "It's nothing. Just forget about it," he replied brusquely, clearly preoccupied with his own thoughts.

"The mighty king of all Goguryeo has arrived!" announced the herald, his voice resounding through the grand hall as the monarch made his entrance. As the king proceeded to his throne, a wave of reverence swept through the assembly, with every courtier bowing in deference until he took his seat.

"All rise!" declared the herald, prompting the courtiers to stand as the king settled upon his throne. "Today's affairs?" the monarch inquired, his gaze steady as he addressed his advisors.

"The chief of the Kyeru tribe is here," announced Head Minister Kim Hongjoong, his voice carrying across the room with authority.

"Let him in," commanded the king, granting audience to the tribal chief.

With a deep bow, the tribal chief entered the hall, his presence marked by a palpable sense of respect and deference. "My lord, I am honored to be in your presence," he expressed, his words tinged with reverence.

"I have brought you five elephants and three of the finest Kyeru horses as a token of my esteem," the chief continued, presenting his offerings to the king as a gesture of goodwill.

"What is your grievance, chief?" inquired the king, his tone measured as he listened to the chief's concerns.

"My lord, the Kwanno tribe has been encroaching upon our land despite repeated warnings. I seek your wisdom and guidance in resolving this dispute peacefully," explained the Kyeru chief, his demeanor marked by a sense of urgency and resolve.

"Summon the chief of the Kwanno tribe to Onyeosanseong immediately. We shall address this matter swiftly and justly," decreed the king, offering his assurance to the chief.

"Until the arrival of the Kwanno chief, I extend to you the hospitality of our palace. Rest assured, we shall find a resolution to this matter," the king added, gesturing toward the guest quarters within the palace.

"You are too generous, my lord," acknowledged the chief, bowing deeply in gratitude.

"You are dismissed," commanded the king, signaling the end of the audience as the chief departed from the royal presence, his mind now set upon the impending resolution of the tribal dispute.

"How is the progress of the kingdom's budget?" inquired the king, directing his attention to Finance Minister Hwang Chang-sung.

"We are in the final stages, my lord," replied the minister with a respectful bow.

"Excellent," remarked the king, nodding in approval as Chang-sung returned the gesture with a smile.

Turning to Defense Minister Choi San, who had assumed responsibility for cadet training in General Seonghwa's absence, the king queried, "And how fares the training?"

"It progresses well, though not without its challenges. Nevertheless, we have managed to overcome them," responded Minister San with a composed demeanor.

"I expect a detailed report on the obstacles encountered and the strategies employed to overcome them," ordered the king, his tone firm yet measured.

"Of course, your highness," affirmed Minister San with a respectful bow.

Next, the king addressed Agricultural Minister Changbin. "How is the agricultural produce this year?"

"We have achieved an exceptional yield, my lord," replied Changbin with a hint of pride, to which the king nodded in acknowledgement.

Turning to Administrative Minister Wooyoung, the king inquired, "Are there any administrative matters requiring attention?"

"No, my lord, all is in order at present," replied Wooyoung, his response delivered with assurance.

Finally, the king directed his attention to Taxation Minister Yeosang. "And what of tax collection?"

"We have successfully collected 95% of this quarter's taxes, with only seven villages remaining," reported Minister Yeosang with a note of accomplishment.

"Very good," acknowledged the king, offering his approval before Yeosang bowed in acknowledgment.

"Satisfied that there are no further issues to address today, I hereby adjourn this assembly," declared the king, prompting all present to bow in deference.

"General, join me in the private meeting chambers in ten minutes," ordered the king, to which General Seonghwa responded with a respectful bow.

Seonghwa approached the private meeting chambers with a knot of apprehension tightening in his stomach. He had been summoned with no indication of the nature of the discussion awaiting him. As he entered the room and bowed respectfully, he was taken aback to find Yeosang seated beside the king.

"How are you, my boy? How is the Gladiolus Palace treating you?" inquired the king, his tone genial as he addressed Seonghwa.

"I'm well, my lord. The palace is truly magnificent, and I find great comfort in its grandeur," replied Seonghwa, his voice tinged with genuine appreciation.

Turning serious, the king continued, "We have something of great importance to discuss with you, Seonghwa."

Seonghwa nodded, his curiosity piqued as he took a seat as instructed.

"You see, my boy, you have reached an age where marriage becomes a consideration. While I understand your reluctance, Yeosang and I have identified a remarkable young woman whom we believe would make an excellent match for you. She will arrive by the 31st at the latest," explained the king.

"My lord, with all due respect, I have no desire to marry," interjected Seonghwa firmly, his tone resolute.

"Seonghwa, I understand your reluctance, but you must comprehend the importance of establishing a family," the king countered, his expression grave. "Without heirs, your position may become vulnerable, subject to the whims of political machinations."

"How so?" inquired Seonghwa, seeking clarification.

"A family man is perceived as more relatable and approachable. Public support is crucial, not only in times of war but in all matters of governance. Without it, even the most capable leader can find themselves at the mercy of ambitious ministers," explained the king sagely.

Before Seonghwa could voice further objections, the king issued a decree. "It is an order, General. You will marry when the girl arrives."

Seonghwa bowed in acquiescence, acknowledging the king's command. With a sense of resignation, he took his leave from the chamber.

Once Seonghwa had departed, Yeosang questioned the king's decision. "Your majesty, why didn't you simply reveal the truth to him?"

The king's response was laced with a sense of melancholy. "I want him to find happiness, Yeosang. Sometimes, the burden of duty outweighs personal desires."

"Minho, Bangchan, I need your help," Jisung called upon his trusted assistants.

"Yes, Prince?" Bangchan responded, his attention fully on Jisung.

"You know about my sister, right? I need your assistance in sneaking her out of Baekje and all the way to Onyeosanseong," Jisung explained, his tone grave yet determined.

"What do you require of us, my lord?" Minho inquired, ready to lend his aid.

"First, promise me that you won't breathe a word of this to anyone," Jisung demanded, emphasizing the importance of secrecy.

"Of course, my lord," both Bangchan and Minho assured him in unison.

"Very well. First, Bangchan, I need you to arrange three horses, a long rope, provisions such as food, water, and comfortable clothing for the journey. I also need both of you to accompany my sister every step of the way to Onyeosanseong," Jisung instructed, his voice steady with determination.

"Yes, my lord," Bangchan affirmed, ready to carry out his prince's orders.

"Minho, I need you to gather intelligence. Find out the family's daily routines, including the times they enter and leave the room, the duration of their stay, their sleeping patterns, the number of guards stationed around the room, and the possible exits from the capital," Jisung continued, assigning Minho a crucial task.

"Consider it done, my lord," Minho replied, his determination matching that of his prince.

Minho swiftly gathered all the necessary information within a mere two days, meticulously documenting every detail of the family's movements and security measures. With his task complete, he joined Bangchan in presenting their findings to Prince Jisung.

Entering Jisung's resting chambers, the trio settled in, ready to formulate a plan that would ensure the safe extraction of Y/N from her confines. Hours passed as they delved into intense debate and deliberation, analyzing every aspect of the situation and brainstorming potential strategies.

Through their collective efforts and unwavering determination, a foolproof plan began to take shape. Each detail was meticulously crafted, every contingency considered. With their minds united and their resolve unwavering, Jisung, Minho, and Bangchan emerged from the chambers with a sense of purpose, ready to set their plan into motion and bring about Y/N's liberation from her captivity.

Ch3>>>

[nicolewoo]

Cub Part 13

Pairing: Roman Reigns X Reader

Synopsis: Roman, Seth and Dean are a pack of werewolfs. Protecting their city from the scumbags of the world ends up with a surprise when a victim left for dead imprints on Roman Reigns.

Part 13

I was exhausted after the flight and the ensuing boat ride, but as I stood on the stern of the boat, watching as we glided to the shore, I saw the crowd waiting for us. Probably 100 people had gathered to greet us. Drums pounded out a rhythm, and teenagers danced in welcome. I took in every sound, every smell, every piece of tropical beauty as we neared the shore, and I was energized again.

A small group had gathered on the dock to greet us. “Cub, welcome to Samoa,” an older woman said as she put a lei on my neck. The other members of the welcoming group placed leis on the necks of the rest of our group. “I am Filemu, Tribal Chief for our tribe. It is an honor and a joy to meet you. Thank you for your sacrifice.”

Sacrifice? I questioned Roman through our mental link. “They mean thank you for adding a new blood line to strengthen our tribe. We’re not gonna throw you in a volcano or anything” He answered back as he kissed my temple. I stifled my desire to laugh.

I didn’t know how to answer, so I just nodded. “Let’s get you seated. Do you need anything? Anything at all?” Filemu asked as our party started moving toward a building.

A particularly bad muscle spasm in my leg started and I felt myself start to collapse, but Roman was quick to pick me up and carry me bridal style into the building.

Inside the small, squat, concrete building, I was surprised to find a state of the art interior. Three tables ran along one wall. That must be where the tribal counsel presided. At the center of the table, the Tribal Chief sat in an elaborate chair, and motioned Roman to set me in the chair next to her. “Let’s get our guests some food and drink”, Filemu commanded, and as the rest of our party filed into the hall, a young woman came to see what I wanted. I settled on some pineapple juice; figuring it should be amazingly fresh, and I was happy to find it was better than I expected.

As the tribe filed in, I started to see the disapproving looks from some of the tribe; the men in particular. Roman wasn’t acknowledging the looks or the murmurs, but I could feel the guilt inside him. Some of these men had helped raise Roman. They had helped shape his morality and ethics, and knowing he broke the most sacred tribal rule, he knew he’d let these men down.

“Hey,” I thought. “You didn’t do anything wrong.” I squeezed his hand reassuringly.

“I should be comforting you.” He answered.

My answer was cut off when Filemu’s attention focused on me again. “Ok, Little wolf. Tonight, we celebrate you joining our Tribe. We’re throwing you a huge party.”

A cough caught our attention. Roman’s father, the imposing figure, stood before us. “My Tribal Chief, I’m very excited to announce that Y/N went into heat on the plane.” Really? Did he have to say it so loud? I had just a second to cringe before I realized that nobody in the room seemed phased.

“Oh! Well! We’ll have to move the party back a few days.” Filemu said, and I heard some panic about all the food that was already cooked.

“No. No. Please! You’ve all gone to so much trouble! Let’s have the party. Maby we can sneak off somewhere if the need arises.” I said.

Filemu smiled wide. “It would be our honor to host your mating room.”

I was beginning to protest. “Oh please don’t go to any troub….” I could feel Roman stop me.

“It really is an honor” he said to me, and I let it drop.

“I truly appreciate everything, and I hope I have a chance to thank everyone.”

Filemu put her hand on mine and tapped it gently. Looking up, she commanded the tribe to settle without a word. “Who would like to prepare a mating room?”

Immediately, a hoard of teenagers raised their hands, hoping for the chance to impress their Tribal Chief. Filemu picked a few teens who rushed into action as soon as they were chosen.

Filemu focused on me again, “Now that’s settled. Would you like to go to the hotel and rest now?” Even though it was a question, her tone of voice indicated it was an order.

“With all due respect my Tribal Chief,” Filemu focused her attention on me. “I’m anxious to settle this matter of the imprinting immediately. That’s why we flew here.”

“Little wolf, aren’t you tired?” Filemu asked.

“I am, but I’m afraid I won’t be able to relax until my mate is out of hot water.” I answered as reverently as I could.

Filemu stared at me, assessing my mood, and finding me serious. She inhaled deeply “I understand. I cannot guarantee I’ll be able to assemble the entire counsel today, but I will try.” She looked me directly in the eye, and I knew she was telling the truth. “Would you like to rest while I get everything prepared?”

I smiled warmly, “I would. Thank you.”

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

[cozyaliensuperstar7]

Our Tribal Chief and Greatest Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns 👑 🇼🇸 ☝🏾🤙🏾🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺🌺

#Repost @paulheyman

——

The single most declaratively dominant pinfall in the history of @WWE #WrestleMania main events. Never before has such #GOAT status been openly displayed for all to ACKNOWLEDGE. And there will never be another performance at that level in a 'Mania main event ... until next year ... when @romanreigns tops this year's historic moment with what he displays during his Immortal's Showcase next year ... while defending HIS title ... in the main event ... of WRESTLEMANIA!

[chief-girl]

Oh dear it seems the people were confused which one you put up to acknowledge our Tribal Chief.

For the next time do your homework better Montreal this is the right one ☝️

[omg-im-such-a-masochist]

ACKNOWLEDGE ME

Prompt: Requested. Thank you so much nonny, for your request ❤️

Word Count: Long-ish

Pairings: Roman Reigns x Reader

Warnings: +18, smut, dom x sub dynamic, manhandling, oral sex (male receiving), clit stimulation (shower head), shower sex

Editor: @thenightmareismyreality

Tag: @ziasaph , @marlananicole , @akiko-tanaka , @nicolewoo , @saccreigns , @sassymox , @waywardwrestlewritingwaif , @mindofasagittaruis , @reigns-5sos , @wickedsunfire , @auawdo , @lustyromantic , @babydee17 , @yungbludjazz360 , @drewmcintyrekoccsrocbwdgfan

Notes: Oh Lawd, I loved every minute of this 💦🤤😍 If you’d like to check out my previous works, you can find them on my Masterlist 😉

“And you WILL acknowledge me!” He snarled, staring deep into the camera

*Yes, sir. I will!* I thought to myself

“And cut! Beautiful, Roman. Nice job! Alright guys, Rollins’ next, can someone call him, please?”

Roman approached the chair I was sitting on

“Ready to go home, baby girl?”

I could only stare at him, daydreaming about how it would be if the tribal chief manhandled me like that…

“Y/N? Are you ok baby?” He gently shook my shoulder

“Huh?” I replied, still lost in my daydream

“Babe, you’re starting to scare me” He squatted down “Is there something wrong? Are you feeling alright?”

I nodded “Yeah, yeah..”

“Are you sure?”

“Yeah, it’s just that I’ve never seen you do anything ‘tribal chief’ related in person, so it kinda took me off guard”

“And why is that?”

“Because he’s so different from you, he’s so” I took a deep breath “So...rough”

Slowly, a mischievous grin took over his lips

“So you like him?”

I nodded

“But you always said he was a cocky and pretentious asshole” He tilted his head to the side

“He is but…” I trailed off

“You got turned on by him” He finished my sentence for me

“Can we go home now?” I whispered

“Sure, baby” He smirked, intertwining our fingers as we went to the parking lot

…………………………….

“I’m gonna take a shower” I said, as soon as we entered the front door to our house

“Shower? But you normally shower before bed?”

I ignored him and made my way to our bathroom.

How pathetic it is for a grown woman to masturbate over a character that her own husband plays, when she could simply ask him to perform that fantasy for her? Very pathetic, but I know Roman, and I know for a fact that if I ask him to do that he will forever be a pain in my ass about me having the hots for ‘the tribal chief’ , when I was the one who always hated him in the first place.

The bathroom door opened, and I heard Roman coming in

“Hey, Ro. Can you get me a towel please? I forgot to grab one when-“

One hand covered my mouth, instantly making my heart race

“Shhhh, you’ll only talk when I tell you to”

I looked over my shoulder to find Roman staring at me with cold eyes

I turned around and pulled his hand away from my mouth

“Jesus, Roman! You scared the shit out of me! I thought-“

His hand came up again, but this time it closed around my neck

“I told you to: Shut. The. Fuck. Up! And please, you know I could never be Roman! Don’t compare me with that soft ass motherfucker” He chuckled “I’ve had my eyes set on you for a while now” His free hand caressed my wet body

“I wanted to stop by...say hello...play with you a little bit” He smirked, reaching his hand for the shower head “But that punk ass bitch you call husband, never let me” He let go of my neck, to grab one of my breasts

“Said you didn’t like me” He cackled “Said you didn’t want anything to do with me” He turned the shower head on “But I know that's a lie! You always wanted me, right?” He aimed the shower head on my clit, the water pressure making me moan

“Deep down, you know you were hoping for me to come out and make you my pet”

I grabbed his forearms for support, when I felt my orgasm taking over me

“Show you where you belong” He cackled, when my mouth hung open from pleasure

“Do you know where you belong, pet?”

I dug my nails into his skin, and suddenly he turned the shower head off, right when I was about to reach my high

He laughed at my scowl “That’s right, pet. You belong on your knees” He pulled me down by my hair “Making your tribal chief feel good” He rubbed his erection on my lips, before tapping the tip against my mouth, as a sign for me to open up

“Don’t make that fucking face!” He slapped the hollow of my cheek when I frowned “Your only purpose here is to make me feel good, and you’ll do what I want, when I want. Understand?”

“Yes, chief”

“Good pet” He mocked

I bobbed my head up and down

“Is that all you got?” He scoffed “I know you can go deeper than that” He held my head in place and began to fuck my mouth

“Open it wider” He pulled my chin down “There we go” He sunk all the way down, until my nose hit his pelvic bone “Fuck yes” He grunted

When I began to choke on him, I pulled him away and he pulled my hair back, making me look up at him

He slapped my face “Don’t you fucking push me away ever again! You will take what I give you, and if I want you to choke on my dick, you’ll choke on my dick! I’m the one who tells you when you’ve had enough”

Just to prove his point, he held me by the hair with his hands and slid all the way down my throat. When I thought I couldn’t take it anymore, he stepped away

“See? I KNOW what’s best for you! And when you’re with me, that’s how you should behave! No words, mouth open and legs spread, got it?”

“Yes, chief”

He pulled me up by my hair until I was back up on my feet. He pushed me down on the white marble shower bench, and cupped my mound

“That was so unfair of you, pet. Coming to shower and not even inviting me”

It was actually embarrassing how wet I was for him, that’s why it was no surprise to me the smirk that grew on his face when his fingers caressed my folds

“You were thinking about me” He rubbed my clit “You were dying for me to come here and claim this sweet pussy as mine, huh?” He slid two fingers in and started to fuck me relentlessly

“Do you want that, pet? You want to take my cum in that pretty pussy?”

“Yes, chief...Oh fuck” I moaned

“Of course you want it! You were always a whore for me anyways” He chuckled and replaced his fingers with his cock

I moaned loudly, scratching my nails down his back

“Yes, pet. Moan for me, cum for me” He leaned down and whispered “You know that you need my cock more than you need air” He laughed when I came

“Let’s see how pretty that pussy looks dripping my cum” He grunted, spilling his seed inside of me

After a few minutes he slid off and admired his work

“My property” He pushed his leaking cum back inside of me with his thumb

Surprisingly, he was still incredibly hard

“Ready for round two, pet?”

He grinned, stroking his cock while he stared at me

Please, if you’re comfortable with it, let me know your thoughts on this? Feedbacks are always appreciated 🥰😘

[swanlake1998]

Article: Oklahoma’s Gift to Ballet: The Five Moons Ballerinas

Date: August 19, 2021

By: Meryl Cates

A festival at the University of Oklahoma celebrates the impact of these ballerinas on 20th century ballet, honoring their Native American heritage.

At the first Oklahoma Indian Ballerina Festival, in 1957, its founder, Moscelyne Larkin, danced Myrtha in Act Two of “Giselle” and Maria Tallchief performed an excerpt from “Swan Lake.” It was a festival created to honor five Native American ballerinas, all hailing from Oklahoma. But it would take 10 years, and the premiere of a ballet, “The Four Moons,” for the festival to really celebrate the dancers’ heritages as well as their artistry.

As prima ballerinas in the 1940s through the 1960s in major companies, Yvonne Chouteau, Rosella Hightower, Larkin, and Maria and Marjorie Tallchief were transformative artists. This summer, the Five Moons Dance Festival, presented by the University of Oklahoma’s School of Dance, will celebrate their impact on 20th century ballet, honoring the significance of their Indigenous backgrounds.

“The Four Moons” ballet, with a score by the Cherokee-Quapaw composer Louis Ballard Sr., was danced in 1967 at the second Oklahoma Indian Ballerina Festival with four of the ballerinas. The fifth, Maria Tallchief, perhaps the most recognized in American ballet, had retired from dancing and remained firm in her decision not to perform. It was the first time, as professionals, they would represent their own stories as Native American women on the stage.

Without any known recordings of the performance, “The Four Moons” has been fragmented into a few hazy memories, with some clues left by reviewers. Larkin (Shawnee-Peoria), performed a swift and effervescent solo, and then Hightower (Choctaw) appeared in a self-choreographed, playful story. Next came Marjorie Tallchief (Osage), whose elegant variation shifted the atmosphere in the theater, enrapturing the audience. That led into a section by Chouteau (Shawnee-Cherokee) about the devastating Trail of Tears, with delicate yet determined bourrées pulling her heavy heart along, despite her gliding feet.

“I’m very glad we did it,” Marjorie Tallchief, 94, said recently, on the phone from her home in Delray Beach, Fla. “It was amazing, at that time, that they got us all together.”

On a program including works by George Balanchine and Bronislava Nijinska, “The Four Moons” was created to honor the histories of these tribes as they were forced from their land and settled in Oklahoma. The dancers themselves were meant to represent the destinies of the tribes; the original program featured them as four moons in a painting by the artist Jerome Tiger, who was Muscogee-Seminole. They would later become known as Oklahoma’s Five Moons ballerinas. (Marjorie is the only one still alive.)

Audiences loved “The Four Moons,” but some critics stumbled over its convergence of Native American themes and classical ballet, seemingly surprised by a traditional pas de quatre instead of a “corn dance or sun dance,” as The Saturday Review put it.

With so much discussion in the dance world about representation and diversity, the moment for a Five Moons festival seemed right to Michael Bearden, the director of the School of Dance, which was founded by Chouteau and her husband, Miguel Terekhov. Bearden also wanted to involve female choreographers, who are still rare in ballet, and Native communities (there are 39 federally-recognized tribal nations in Oklahoma) through conversations exploring aspects of the Five Moons ballerinas’ careers and lives as Native women.

The festival, which runs Aug. 27-29, will feature works by Stefanie Batten Bland, Annabelle Lopez Ochoa, Rena Butler and DaYoung Jung, as well as Osage Ballet’s “Wahzhazhe,” about the story of the Osage nation, produced by Randy Tinker Smith and choreographed by Jenna Smith.

Russ Tall Chief, who lives in Oklahoma and is related to Marjorie and Maria through his great-grandfather, is on the festival’s planning committee and will participate in one of the lectures.

“I think it’s important for us to remember that Maria and Marjorie and all five of the ballerinas came out of Oklahoma, from small rural reservation communities,” he said. “To have these women of color, representing not just American Indians, but America, on the ballet stage was profound.”

Excerpts from the ballet “Wahzhazhe” will include an opening prayer section, an important tradition of the tribe.

“To us, to Osages, there’s a direct silence about Native America,” Tinker Smith said. “Because every day we face challenges. We have to work harder, try harder and do better, just to have things that non-Indians have. And I think that the timing is perfect for this. To have this legacy of these five ballerinas in our past, that are part of us, really inspires the kids. You can dream and you can follow your dreams.”

In the 1940s, when Chouteau, Hightower, Larkin and the Tallchiefs were beginning their careers, they were proudly Oklahoman, though ballet as an art form was widely considered European.

The only season in which Hightower, Larkin and Marjorie Tallchief were together in Col. W. de Basil’s Original Ballet Russe, 1946-47, the program linked them together by their home state, and distinguished them among the company’s handful of Americans. (Larkin was billed as Moussia Larkina; like many others she had opted for a Russian-sounding stage name, which she soon shed again for Larkin.) Only Tallchief is identified further as “of Indian ancestry, part Osage.”

“It was part of me, it was my name,” Marjorie Tallchief said, acknowledging that being Osage was significant in her career. After a lengthy pause, she added: “Actually, my father made me promise that I would never change my name. I just suddenly remembered when I was leaving, he said, ‘You promise me you’ll never change your name?’ And I said, yes. So I never did.”

Marjorie and Maria grew up in Fairfax, Okla., and it was their mother who encouraged their early music and dance training. The Tallchiefs performed sister act dance routines, first locally — including at the Tall Chief Theater, built by their father Alex Tall Chief, which still stands today — and then in California, where their mother relocated them for better ballet instruction. It was in Beverly Hills that Maria made the adjustment from Tall Chief to Tallchief.

Maria joined the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo at 17, leaving several years later to join Ballet Society, the company that would become New York City Ballet, after becoming the wife of George Balanchine, its founding choreographer. There she ascended to star status.

Balanchine, who adored America, loved her Osage heritage, she wrote in her 1997 autobiography. But strained cultural characterizations prevailed in the 1944 version of his “Le Bourgeois Gentilhomme,” which included a “Danse Indienne” pas de deux. In a performance crisply preserved on 16 millimeter film, Maria dances quick stylized parallel lifts of her knees wearing a billowy feathered headdress, pompoms and a sash. (Balanchine would later rework the ballet entirely, with no “Danse Indienne.”) Maria went on to important roles in ballets including “Firebird” and “The Four Temperaments,” and became a beacon of American dancing.

Marjorie followed her sister into professional ballet, joining Ballet Theater and then de Basil’s Original Ballet Russe and the Grand Ballet du Marquis de Cuevas in France. In 1956 she was invited to join the Paris Opera Ballet as the first American étoile, the highest rank in the company, commanding classical repertoire with her exhilarating control and lyrical stage presence.

Hightower also made her career largely in Europe, eventually becoming a leading ballerina with the Grand Ballet du Marquis de Cuevas. She was so beloved that when she returned to that company in 1957, after ending a touring contract with Ballet Theater, audiences applauded for 15 minutes during her entrance in “Piège de Lumière.”

These five distinguished Native American ballerinas came out of Oklahoma all within one decade. As students, they frequented some of the same studios and master classes, including in Kansas City and Los Angeles, but in fleeting phases, just as they sometimes performed in companies together during their careers. In several interviews, Chouteau credited her Shawnee-Cherokee heritage as her inspiration to dance. (As a child she toured Oklahoma, her family insisting on the authenticity of each of her dances.) Marjorie Tallchief noted the immense influence the Ballet Russe had on small towns as it made its way through the country.

Chouteau and Larkin would go on to perform alongside the dancers that they once admired from the audience. Chouteau was a leading ballerina with the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo, which she joined at 14; and Larkin made her career with companies including de Basil’s Ballet Russe and the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo.

As professionals the Five Moon dancers would each encounter challenges, not only because of the grind of constant traveling, but also because they needed to find their place in the culture of their companies not just as Oklahomans, but also as Native women. Being from the United States, they were perceived by the public and press as demonstrating an overall informality, and possessing an ease onstage. While internationally respected, Hightower was still referred to as a “little American girl” in a Dance Magazine feature. Chouteau recalled her fellow dancers encouraging her to pronounce her name in a more French way, instead of how she grew up saying it in her family. They were Americans in a time when ballet wasn’t exactly American yet.

In an early review written about Maria Tallchief, John Martin of The New York Times noted her Osage heritage and said that “with careful handling,” she might very well “develop into ballerina material.” A decade later, in 1954, she was featured on the cover of Newsweek, with the headline “The Ballet’s Tallchief: Native Dancer,” her Osage heritage used to signal a “new order in the ancient and honorable clan of ballerinas.”

A reframing had occurred, especially in the media — if ballet was now American, it proposed, then here were your truly American dancers. “We were a curiosity,” Chouteau said in an interview in The Oklahoman in 1982, when gathered for the state’s Diamond Jubilee.

Marjorie Tallchief said that in Europe, newspapers mentioned she was Osage, but she thought it was a different treatment than her sister might have experienced in the States.

“They didn’t have anything against me,” Marjorie Tallchief said. “Maybe, but not because of my heritage.”

“Back in the Paris Opera I was the only one who wasn’t French,” she said. “Obviously, they noticed this. It’s very hard to become a dancer at the Paris Opera. So anyone that comes from outside as a first dancer” — or étoile — “I would say there was a little pressure on me because of that.”

Despite every desire to define them, and describe them within ballet’s rigid terms, they established five distinct and powerful careers. “These are American Indian people that have made this impact on ballet,” Russ Tall Chief said. “And that they consider themselves American Indian before they consider themselves ballerinas, I think that’s important. That is part of their vocabulary as dancers. They bring that history of American Indian culture to their dance, and to their interpretation of the way that they see ballet.”

[kyogre-blue]

Nanowrimo, day 11 (wc 1783)

The top beauty in Imuchakk was. Tall. 

Very tall. 

“It’s a pleasure to make the acquaintance of such an esteemed lady, Miss Rurumu,” Sinbad said, tilting his head back as he looked up, and up, and up. 

The famous National Chief’s daughter, Rurumu, was taller than even Hinahoho, who was already twice Sinbad’s height. From so far down, Sinbad couldn’t even make out her expression. She was also very big. When she accepted the hand he stretched out -- gently, thankfully -- her palm wrapped halfway up his forearm. 

“The pleasure is mine, Lord Sinbad,” she said. 

Her voice was unexpectedly gentle and smooth, like moving water. Her eyes too, Sinbad saw, were kind, deep like the sea. However, he didn’t miss the horns tucked into her blue headband. The headband could be worn by anyone among the Imuchakk, even children. Hinahoho had only foregone it before out of his own sense of isolation from the tribe. But the horns were the mark of a warrior. 

One was supposed to be given to the spouse. But since they were both warriors, Sinbad supposed Rurumu and Hinahoho would trade one horn to each other... 

Rurumu smiled and kneeled, so they could see each other more clearly. Her face was indeed worthy of the title number one beauty. “Hinahoho has told me much about you,” she said. “Thank you for supporting him and giving him courage. He is the man I have chosen, and I trust him above all else. His comrades are my comrades. His dreams are my dreams.” 

This person... according to rumors, she was exceptionally accomplished. Beautiful, powerful, and with a bloodline that would be equal to royalty. With her qualifications, if not her father’s position, then she could easily aim for village patriarch or even tribal chief. 

And yet, she only wanted to dedicate herself to one person. Not as a subordinate, but as one who will share his life equally. 

A warrior that only wished to support their family, just like... 

Sinbad blinked quickly, taken aback by the faint stinging behind his eyes. It had been so long since he thought of his father, but he thought he could suddenly see his strong, broad back again, just like all those years ago. 

“If you’re telling me this,” he said slowly, “then, Hinahoho, you plan to join me? Even though it means leaving Imuchakk?” 

That was something they hadn’t discussed so far. There was, after all, a difference between acknowledging someone as the most worthy of conquering a dungeon, and swearing loyalty to them beyond that. While the Sham Lash assassin trio had joined Sinbad for good, Drakon had done the former but not the latter, and Sinbad had somewhat expected that Hinahoho would be the same, especially with a fiancee waiting for him. 

“That’s right,” Hinahoho said easily. He grinned, enjoying Sinbad’s surprise, but his expression slowly turned more serious. “I’ve been thinking a lot, since the dungeon. It’s true that I was finally accepted as an adult and a warrior in my tribe. But that means I have a responsibility to think about our nation’s future too. And Imuchakk… can’t stay closed off from the world forever.” 

“Indeed. As expected of the man I love,” Rurumu agreed, nodding. 

Hinahoho spluttered, going red in the face. 

“It’s one thing to focus inwardly, but we cannot remain blind to the outside world,” she went on. “Imuchakk warriors are mighty, but we are only a small nation. And I caught a glimpse of a djinn’s power, when your friend helped drive off those intruders. It is…” her eyes sharpened with calculation, “...indeed one that can change the world.” 

So Alibaba had helped to fight off the team Partevia sent after them? Sinbad hadn’t known that. 

“A djinn’s power is incredible,” Sinbad agreed, “but it’s not nearly enough for what I have in mind. To create a country, there are many other things needed as well. Money, influence, people, land… And, above all, knowledge. Money and knowledge, those are the two I plan to focus on first.” 

Rurumu smiled. “My beloved” — who turned red and extremely pleased — “and I will need to formally announce our engagement to my father,” she said, completely changing the subject. 

“Oh? Would it be possible for me to attend as well?” Sinbad asked. 

“It would be our honor,” Rurumu said. 

Beautiful, powerful, and also brilliant. Hinahoho was a very lucky man. And Sinbad was just as lucky to benefit from this relationship. 

~.~ 

‘So you guys are Vittel and Mahad? And that guy is Ja’far… Okay, I won’t forget. It’s a bit late, but it’s nice to meet you. Thank you for joining me and putting your faith in my dream. I won’t let you down!’ 

Mahad shifted slightly, pulling Vittel out of his thoughts and making him realize he had been staring into space, a sack of treasure in his hands. Awkwardly, Vittel cleared his throat and hurried to shove the sack next to the others in the sleigh they had been loaned by the Imuchakk villagers. 

At one point, he might have seen it as an insult to be put to use for manual labor like this, but at the moment it was a welcome chance to keep moving and do something while his mind futilely tried to process everything that had happened. 

The dungeon itself had been otherworldly, but they were trained enough — dead inside enough — to ignore the sights, and the traps and monsters beyond that had not been beyond a Sham Lash elite’s capabilities. Being discarded and used up by the court magician’s strange technique had been… not unexpected either. Gruesome and chilling, but not unexpected at all. 

What they didn’t expect was to survive. And… Sinbad. 

How could anyone expect Sinbad, who could only be a singular, unmatched existence? 

Absently, Vittel rubbed his hands together, expecting something to flake off his fingers. But his hands were clean, dry from the cold air. His nose was cold too and doubtlessly red, and threatening to sniffle. 

Remembering he didn’t need to hide his presence, he went ahead and sniffled wetly. Partevia, Reim, Musta’sim had never been this cold. 

Mahad tilted his head. 

“I don’t know either,” Vittel responded, sighing. “It does seem… too good to be true. There’s stupid idealists out there who might accepted assassins into the fold, but Sinbad even saved us and the chief. And he’s so powerful. He really might be able to do it.” 

Mahad gestured, and Vittel nodded in agreement. “It might have been just because of the Imuchakk. In that case, they’ll try again once we leave this country. But you remember what it was like fighting him and that friend of his. Maybe they could be overwhelmed with numbers, but one on one? Only the master would have a chance. And that’s before he gained Valefor.” 

Clasping his hands, he admitted quietly, “We might actually be able to escape the Sham Lash.” 

And that was… an impossible dream. Sham Lash had kept them alive when they were discarded orphans, but it had become their dead end as well. Maybe they should have felt some gratitude toward the organization that kept them fed and trained them, but they both knew better than to waste their feelings. Those that bothered with ridiculous emotions like that were the first to die — like Drakon, Barbarossa’s sheltered little brother. His loyalty had simply made him that much easier to manipulate and then throw away. 

The Sham Lash felt nothing for their assassins, and their assassins didn’t feel anything in return. 

‘They’ve already become my people! And I won’t leave anyone behind! I won’t let my comrades die!’ 

When they woke up, Sinbad’s words echoed distantly in their minds. ...It was almost disgusting how easily the slightest feelings could sway them. 

Choosing between the masters that would doubtlessly kill them, and the master that would at least value them was not difficult. After all, they had already acknowledged the traitorous desire to be free in their hearts.  

That was why they had also stepped forward to compete for the djinn’s power, even if they had just gotten used again in the end. 

Thinking of that, Vittel glanced at his old partner and cleared his throat. “Mahad…” 

A large hand covered his shoulder. Mahad nodded. 

Vittel smiled. “Yeah. We should go see Chief too. After all, we’re going to be comrades now. Sinbad seems like the type who doesn’t like backstabbing in the ranks.” 

Due to the extensive strain on his body and spirit, Ja’far had been ordered to bedrest since their return. The fact that he obeyed this order and quietly remained in the side room given over to them inside the patriarch’s home was a testament to the respect he had for Sinbad, who commanded it. 

The first thing Ja’far did when they visited was curse out Sinbad’s name. 

“That bastard! Who does he think he is! Stupid! Just wait til I get my hands on him!” Ja’far hurled a stream of insults. However, whether because of his uncovered face, small and pale, or their change in circumstances, it was not particularly threatening. 

Vittel and Mahad nodded along, and after several minutes, the tirade of curses and threats finally tapered off. 

“Anyway, a soft idiot like him will probably take it badly if you kill someone, so don’t get carried away,” Ja’far warned them. “For now, it’s better to wait and see what he plans to do.” 

“Since he obtained another djinn, won’t he return to his base of operations to prepare for the next step?” Vittel wondered. When Mahad shifted to one side, he nodded. “Based on what he said to Drakon, it doesn’t seem like he plans to return to Partevia, but our intelligence said his mother disappeared from their village too. So there must be a place where he’s settled down for now.” 

The Sham Lash had been deeply frustrated by the fact that they simply could not track down where Sinbad had disappeared to or how he’d accomplished it. Every port, every mountain pass had been closely watched. They were sure he hadn’t slipped through. And yet he had undeniably left Partevia. By the time court magician Falan had managed to scry him, he had already been at sea. 

Ja’far frowned, looking down at his lap. His hands had fisted in the blankets, as he muttered to himself, “Wonder if we’ll meet her... his mom...” 

He’d have to be a complete moron to let them near his weak spot like that. 

But his home was their home now. Hadn’t he said that? 

Scowling, Ja’far firmly stamped down the small sprout of expectation in his heart. 

[rickygoldman34]

Onto the next match and it shall be Seth Rollins vs Matt Riddle thats right Riddle has got his 1st name back. This was a very good,physical story telling match that had many near falls and definitely went the distance. This did not disappoint at all. Both men looked fantastic. Riddle really did good in this match pulling out all the stops. We saw a draped DDT by Seth and then a top rope curb stomp to pick up the his 1st W in 15 months.

Welllllll it's the MAIN EVENT! Its god mode time. It's the head of the table, our tribal chief,the g.o.a.t the one and only Roman Vs Drew McIntyre for the undisputed WWE universal title. It was a truly epic main event. I got goosebumps as Reigns made his entrance. Hes on a level no one will ever reach. Drew did bring back broken dreams and got a good pop. We got plenty of back and forth action and many,many pin fall attempts but Drew definitely controlled the action the crowd very much on his side which got to Reigns. Roman did get back into it though he battled back. Karrion Kross who was at ringside distracted Drew. We saw the Claymore early on from Drew but to no avail. They go outside the ring and Drew spears him into the barricade. Drew back in and Reigns is up and grabs a chair Drew then hits the Claymore again on Roman but it knocks down the ref so no 3 count here. A new ref comes in Reigns hits his 2nd spear in the match but Drew kicks out. Reigns then hooks in the guillotine but to no avail. Drew with a 3rd Claymore,he covers Reigns but the ref gets pulled out the ring by Solo Sikoa. Solo attacks Drew, Reigns hit a 3rd spear and the 123. The greatest title reign in the modern era continues. ACKNOWLEDGE HIM!!

It was an EPIC PPV and I give it a massive 10 stars out of 10.

Dont forget to add me on Facebook Ricky J Pate,follow me on Twitter @ricktherock30,go and check out WWA world wrestling alliance on Facebook and go and like and SUBSCRIBE to my YouTube channel the people's wrestling channel for month long shout outs.

Ricky Goldman out.

[blightwulf]

For the first time (that I know of) I’ve been blocked on Facebook and had some lowkey drama go down. Honestly I’m not sure how I feel about it.

I usually avoid arguments that aren’t in my immediate circle, especially if it’s an online thing. I don’t mind occasional factual argument comments when I feel it’s important, but that’s usually it.

Yesterday I posted something in regards to the 5,296 bodies of children found in residential schools across Canada. This is nowhere near the total count, and sadly we might never truly find all of the bodies.

In response to my post one of my cousins, Michelle, wrote me a message saying I should think about the fact that the original news hit the media before Canada day and then fizzled out immediately after Canada day was over.

I’ll admit, my responses were a bit hostile. I said the original commission to find out what happened in the residential schools was started in 2008 and that I still saw news about this every single day, but that’s because my friends list on Facebook are primarily made up of children of residential school survivors that are rejoicing that this stuff is now being fully brought into the light. The other reason it “fizzled out” is because the media is fickle. One week it’s Johnny Depp abuse stuff, then the next it’s Dr. Suess books, then it’s sexual assault stories, and so on. It’s sad but there’s so much going on that the media literally jumps from one subject to another within a week, or sometimes even within days.

Naturally this upset Michelle, and through our 17 message conversation she continued to talk down at me by saying she knows more about it then I ever could because she’s talked to tribal elders, chiefs, and so on. Okay. That’s good for her, I don’t know her life and I wasn’t trying to say I knew more then she did. I was upset that she was implying it was all a big conspiracy to ruin Canada day, because she wouldn’t stop talking about how the news hit just before Canada day.

She was mean, and honestly I was disappointed. She’s a teacher, she has a half black daughter, and previously she called me racist for using #BlackLivesMatter and then told me racism is gone. I told her that I hope her daughter never has to experience racism, because even I have as a white passing half Filipino kid. She freaked out and acted like I was threatening her daughter. That’s the type of person that she is, which sucks because I’ve always wanted to get to know that side of the family but my dad refused to even acknowledge his sister in law after my uncle Pinky died when I was a kid. My dad didn’t even go to his brothers funeral because of them.

Anyways, eventually I just got annoyed and straight up said even if people did keep the knowledge of the bodies until before Canada day so it the news would be viral, who cares? Michelle kept mentioning that for decades everyone knew about the deaths anyways, which I wouldn’t say is 100% true, but whatever. Even if they did keep the news until Canada day to make a stir, so what? People weren’t doing anything when they “knew” for decades beforehand. Residential schools are just now being talked about. Trauma is just now being shared and people are saying “look what happened to us, this is what they did”.

Last comment I saw before I fell asleep was Michelle freaking out and accusing me of calling her a conspiracy theorist because “she’s just curious” and that I should pay attention to how the media is trying to divide people. I pointed out I literally never said that, I said she’s making it sound like a conspiracy and that there are thousands of people that genuinely think all of these bodies are a conspiracy just to ruin Canada day and cause people to stop celebrating it. Also, the media isn’t trying to divide anyone. People are sharing their stories, learning about what has happened, and communities are finally able to give proper burials to those that they’ve lost.

Either way, I fell asleep and woke up to my mom telling me that my brothers girlfriend Jana was insisting that I call my brother Gord. Apparently they both gave Michelle shit for being an ass to me and said that I wasn’t in the wrong at all during my conversation with her. My brother and I had a heart to heart about the recent death of his son Levi, and fuck it hurt so much. My dads side of the family is rough. My siblings are all 40+ years older then me and I have a different mom, so after my dad passed away a lot of them stopped interacting with me because they had no reason to anymore. There’s a lot of things like travel, age, and old family fights that come between us.

Apparently my brother called Michelle and told her to fuck off and leave me alone. He didn’t need to, I never exactly interacted with her on purpose unless I had something I had to say. Michelle blocked me on Facebook and deleted all of her comments, which I genuinely don’t give a shit about. I didn’t expect any of it to blow up, but Jana went on a little rant about how stupid it was that Michelle was picking on me, especially since Michelle is in her late 40s and I’m still basically a kid.

I’ve never had family genuinely have my back, and I’ve literally been crying just thinking about it. My brother is texting me and telling me that if she ever bothers me again to tell her that he’ll fight for me, which he 100% will because he’s a crazy badass.

Honestly I don’t know why I’m writing this, but it’s cathartic to write it down. I’m disappointed that I’ll probably never know that side of my family, disappointed that my cousin is the way she is, I’m overwhelmed with love from my brother and his girlfriends support, and I’m heart broken because I’m remembering my poor nephew Levi who died way too young. His passing ripped a hole through my family’s hearts. He was one of the happiest people that I knew, and I don’t think I’ll ever forget his laugh.

Man, stuff is rough but it’s also so incredibly good

[asongstress1422]

Bride from the Water Tribe

Summary: Katara was taken to the Northern Water Tribe by her grandmother; she was to be protected at all cost, for she was the last of the Southern Water. Once they got there, the North refused to teach her trying to strip her of her worth and turn her into what they wanted, a calm biddable healer to birth the next generation. They failed. And so as punishment they sent her to be a political bride to the Fire Nation.

~*~*Posting for Day 8: Arranged Marriage of Zutara Month 2017 on AO3

The ship plowed through the sea, every lapping crash against the hull, an incessant knock to the waterbender hiding within. The Ocean called to Katara, challenging the woman to test herself against its power. For three weeks Katara had sat huddled in her cabin ignoring that call.

It was so much easier to control her urge to bend when she was on land. Being surrounded constantly by her element in such a powerful force was wearing on her. It would be over soon, though. The watchers had called the first sighting of the Fire Nation with the rising of the sun.

Her final destination was growing on the horizon with every minute.

A fist thudded gently against her door. It was Lee, one of the crewmen. They had had spent a lot of time together during the voyage. When the pull of the ocean got too strong to be ignored in her room she would find something to distract herself with. Usually helping in the kitchen or cleaning the Mess with Lee.

“Lady Katara,” He began respectfully with a smile. “The Chief wanted you. He was headed to the deck.”

“Thank you for coming to tell me, Lee. I will go see him.”

“If I don’t see you during unloading, just wanted to say it was a pleasure sailing with you, miss.” With a tug on his forelock he disappeared down the walk going about his duties to ready the ship for docking.

The wind picked at the hair she had taken to piling on the top of her head to overcome the heat of traveling in equator waters when she came through the hatchway. Her eyes were immediately drawn to the ocean. The sight of it a soothing balm and a dangerous temptation. She breathed in the scent of salt that saturated the air.

Gran-Gran, look what I can do!

The almost forgotten memory of childhood exuberance floated in the air, a painful memory of Before. Who could have predicted that those six little words would lead to this; twice exiled from her homeland and now on her way to the once hated enemy as a political pawn.

“Katara.” The strong bark snapped her head to the prow of the ship. Arnook stood regal in the blue robes, specially dyed silks to combat the heat of the Fire Lands, staring out at the growing land mass. She came to stand beside him. “Have you finished packing?”

‘There was little to pack.’ She thought spiteful. ‘You would not let me bring much, not even my own clothes.’ Her tribal wardrobe of soft furs and blue cloth had been stripped from her. Instead she was now forced to wear the embroidered red silk long robes with trailing sleeves of the fire nation. And they chalked it up to another expense she owed them.

She refrained from looking at the Chief of the Northern Tribe, afraid she would finally say what she wanted and ruin everything before its time. Instead she remained staring at the growing distinctions of the port and the people scurrying around. “Yes.”

“Very good. I trust you will be well behaved when we are greeted? We will want to make a good impression on the prince.” He wasn’t waiting for an answer, simply relishing in the power he now wielded over, her believing her cowed by her near execution.

Her hand fisted at her side, out of sight even if the man had acknowledge her presents with a glance. Her entire body tingled with the tug from the ocean surrounding them. The answering pull she had been suppressing for the last year was unraveling faster in its open presents.

Things would be better, she told herself, when they reached land and she was not constantly assaulted by the tantalizing urge to use her bending.

Nothing good had ever come of her bending. It had destroyed her life more than once and after the last time might have just succeeded in destroying her soul. That it still called to her was an evil omen.

And oh how it called to her.

In her mind she called up a wave, flooding the boat and tipping it. Sending it and the half dozen men on board, her belittlers for the last ten years, to the bottom of the ocean along with herself.

Three things stopped her: the still crisp memory of blood on the snow and the human-shaped, shredded parka laying there. The two dozen, innocent, crewmen sailing the vessel to its destination. And the knowledge that if the man beside her died prematurely her people would not survive the coming upheaval.

She hated him. For all the things he did to her and all the things he would continue to do with her. But it was not her decision to make on who lived and who died. She had made it once and it would haunt her for the rest of her days. Now she was just a tool, the decision not hers but one she would act on.

The ship docked.

“Chief Arnook of the Water Tribe.” A man in dark red robes and a tall hat marched down the docks, several less richly garbed men scurrying behind him. “We were not expecting you for another three days.” The man came to an abrupt stop a yard from the disembarking party and bowed, fisted hand pressed against an open palm. “Greetings from the Fire Nation.” The man straightened. “I am Mizushima. I will be your guide and see to settling you in the Fire Palace.”

“Greetings, Mizushima. We had favorable winds the last leg of our journey. Where are the Fire Lord and the Prince? Should they not be meeting their future daughter-in-law and bride?”

He said it to shame her. Everyone knew that this open bridal candidacy was a farce. It was truth that other nations were bringing girls along, possibly even filling their vapid minds with lies of a prince falling in love with them at first sight. But this was only a convoluted dance in this new world of peace.

The invitations were given to high ranking officials in both the Earth Kingdom and the Northern Tribe in a show of welcome and friendship. They were accepted in good faith and the prize of future trade agreements from the economic leader of nearly the last century. All but the most addled knew that the next Fire Lady would be just that, a fire lady.

Katara saw the sneer of disgust as the official looked her over, barely there and quickly hidden behind a mask of formality. “My Lady, your beauty will surely catch the prince's eye. Alas that won't be for yet another week.”

“A week?” Ulva questioned gruffly. A strong bender and renowned strategist, he was second in command on this campaign. The only good thing for him being here was that it kept him away from his wife and daughter.

“Yes, my lords.” Mizushima directed the men that had followed him to pick up the parties bags. Katara was able to fade into the background. “It’s a day after the last of the candidates are scheduled to arrive. We’re having an opening banquet to greet everyone. The Fire Lord and Prince will have very little time to socialize until then.”

One of the fire nation men offered to take her bag but she declined with a shake of her head and a soft smile. What little was left of her old lives was in the bag and she would not willingly part with it. Besides they had enough to carry from the rest of the luggage.

Mizushima organized everyone to follow him to waiting ‘carriages’, box like structures roped to glossy ostrich horses. She had seen them before when they had stopped briefly at one of the earth kingdom port cities early in their travels. It was where they had purchased her fire nation's robes, stripping her of the last external piece of her heritage.

She slipped into the last carriage with the servants and overflow luggage. It was cramped but she did not want to be stuck in the carriage with any of her party for the trip up to the palace.

“You are not the first candidates to arrive,” Mizushima informed when asked as he sat beside the blue and fur clad chief in the first carriage. “Three of the Earth girls and their families have settled. Also the eldest daughter of the Humira house. More will be arriving by the day.” He cast a sizing eye on Katara as she entered one of the latter carriages. “You’ve only brought one candidate.” Mizushima seemed to think there was some hidden slight in this.

“Yes. The other girls wailed at the prospect of being sent so far from home. She is strong.” Arnook smiled watching the girl also. “Some would say too strong. This will be good for her.” And he was killing three fish with one spear.

“These are your rooms, miss.” The woman was only a year or two older then the water tribe girl and was dressed in the coarse dull red and brown of a palace servant. “Are they to your standards?”

Katara looked across the space that was bigger than her entire home in the north. Polished wood floors and high ceilings gave the room an almost hollow feel. A sitting area was constructed with a plush red cloth covered bench that had arms and a high back, a knee high intricately carved table of darkwood, and two large chairs also covered in red cloth. The set of double doors on the right were open and through them a some sort of raise area, draped in more red. Sleeping quarters? “Yes. Thank you.”

The woman walked around the room pointing things out and setting miniscule things to right. “Until the ceremonies begin, meals will be served in your companion's great room. The quart yard through there is for visitors.” She gestured to the back walls of sunlit cream panels. “If you have need of anything this pulley here will call a servant.”

The maid looked at the dark skinned tribal girl before her and saw a heartbreaking mix of world weary and lost child. At least the those other bridal chits had their mamas and aunties looking out for them. This one seemed to be all alone with that group of men that pretended she didn’t exist. She paused, weighing her next words. “We will also check on you a few time.”

“Please do not go to any trouble on my account. I will be fine.”

“No trouble, miss.”

“Th-thank you.” The amount of gratitude in the girl’s voice let the woman know that she had made the right choice in speaking out.

“Very good, miss. Dinner will be served at five.” She bowed heading for the door.

The girl's voice stopped her. “What is your name?”

“Nivedita, miss.”

“Nivedita.”

“Yes, miss. Good evening.” She bowed again before closing the door. She still had a dozen other duties to complete before rest time but she would enlist a few friends in the servants wing to check in on the girl. She’d just have to convince them that the dreaded Candidate from the north was not a barbaric heathen, just a young girl far from home.

“Gran-Gran.” The words echoed through the darkness.

Katara turned, her elegant fire nation Hanfu flaring out around her as she searched for the voice. A little girl in a blue parka materialized, brilliant in the surrounding shadows. It was herself at the age of eight. Hair barely tamed and face still baby round. She held a snowball out in mittens, eyes bright with excitement.

“Look at what I can do.”

Katara wanted to scream, to warn her younger self, but the dream held her silent and still as she was forced to watch her own destruction.

The snowball melted turning into blood that gushed from the little girl’s hands, staining her parka and pooling at her feet in an ever growing arc. Katara stared on in terror as the pool hit the hem of her robes and wicked up the fabric, absorbing the color, and the evil, but hiding it from site.

All of the sudden she was the girl, small, afraid. Sitting in a puddle of blood, rocking as shadow fingers reached for her. “I will never do it again.” She sobbed. “Please do not send me away! I will never do it again, I promise!”

Katara sat bolt upright in bed, one of her hands stifling a scream in her throat. Tears and sweat dampened her face. Half blind with panic she tore from the bed, tripping in a tangle of sheet and landing hard on the wooden floor with her hip. Kicking loose of the clinging material, like hands grabbing at her, she scuttled away bumping up against a wall. Heart racing, breathing labored, her eyes flew around the room looking for the owners of those snatching hands.

The room in the Fire Palace was empty of all but moonlight and shadows. Both grateful and heartbroken by those truths she bowed her head to her knees, cradling the bruise on her hip, and let the quiet sobs out.  

Not really a dream, just bits of memory struck together to make a living nightmare. It had started with a melting snowball. A simple trick she had practice til perfect to surprise her grandmother. The pool of blood had come later.

Gran-Gran had been adamant about finding her a waterbending teacher. As there were no longer benders in the the South, the Fire Raids had captured them all, she demanded that Katara be brought to their sister tribe in the North.

Katara had begged, promising to never use her bending again, swearing on all the Great Spirits. She did not want to have to leave home or her father and brother, not after they had all lost Mother.

“Hush up.” Her grandmother had ordered, voice unusually harsh as she spoke to the young girl. “You need to be trained. You put everyone in the village in danger by staying here in more ways than one.” She turned back to her son, Chief of the Southern Clans. “It is the only way, Hakoda. I will go with her. We leave with the departing Earth merchants in the morning.”

That had been that. Three months travel brought them to the North.

It had been the last time she saw her brother or father. A year later it was discovered that a Clan had been hiding a water bender. The entire south had been decimated for the crime. A show of force to any who would oppose the Great Fire Empire and a warning that they would soon begin their invasion on the North.

Twice now she had been sent from a place she had considered her home. Maybe now that she was no longer wanted and could no longer return to either, exile would prove more welcoming. If nothing else the relentless curse could finally prove itself useful.

The tears dried as she watched the sun’s first rays bring light into the room. Cream painted walls segmented by dark polished wood columns held up the beautiful open beam ceilings. Glossy wood floors were covered by intricately patterned carpets.

The architecture was beautiful, greater than all the ice walls of the North, but the decor was most definitely lacking. There were no less than three representatives of the Fire Nation emblem in the bedroom alone. The top blanket she had stripped, crumpled, and banished to the corner of the room upon entering was black with their giant red burning trident head dyed in its center. An impressive metalwork sculpture hung on the wall above the bed. The nation’s flag on the left wall.

There were at least a dozen more such propaganda littered throughout the suite of rooms she had been given as a Bridal Candidate. On top of everything being colored red, black or a variation of yellowed cream she felt as if she needed to bathe before she was contaminated.

A breeze fluttered through the netted open windows, smelling of salt and sea. When it was too far to pull at her she found the scent brought only comfort.

Putting on the red robes the Council had specifically made for her to be more attractive in the Fire Nation style she slipped from her rooms to the grassed courtyard outside.

“Who is that?” The prince asked as they were strolling through one of the covered walks in the inner courtyard. The woman was in a brilliant red hanfu and he could just make out the pattern of large gold cranes from their distance. Her brown hair was braided and piled at the top of her head showing off the deep lavender of her inner robe at the neck.

She was watching the turtle-ducks in the small pond.

“I believe that is the Northern Water’s only potential candidate, arrived yesterday with the rest of them. The servants claim she has rather good manners for being from such a barbaric place.”

“Careful, Takumi. We are no longer at war and the far North are our allies.”

The man bowed his head. “Yes, my prince.”

As if feeling their eyes on her she stood and turned in such a graceful movement she had to be a dancer if only because he had seen no-other move like that. Then he forgot all about her body.

Eyes of such startling blue he could clearly see their color from where he stood, locked on him. It was as if she had punched him. He had never seen their color outside the ocean.

“Yes,” the attendant said on an appreciative sigh, “Most definitely the water tribe girl.”

Her eyes flicked over them, landing on him longer in an appraising manner he wasn’t use to from a woman. Fawning, yes. But these eyes saw him.

She clasped her hands together, hiding them inside the wide sleeves of her dress and bowed, showing him the top of her head. “Heir of the Fire Nation, Crown Prince Zuko.”

She didn’t yell her formal greeting but angled her voice so it would carry her soft words across the distance. It was … cool. Not hostile or impolite but like a soft breeze coming off the bay, simply conveying itself with no show of force. Or meekness.

At having been caught staring there was nothing for it but to greet the woman. With a sigh, he marched to one of the brakes in the railing, stepping off the polished wood into the earthen garden.

“Name?” He whispered out of the side of his mouth to Takumi as they drew closer.

“I -uh,- I don’t know.” The man’s voice was slightly panicked as he racked his mind for a name. “Something with a ‘kuh’ sound. Kerren, Korra, Karsen, Kasz...ka?”

“You’re useless.” The prince hissed back before they came into sound range. Plastering a smile he nodded his acknowledgment of her presence. “My Lady. I see you are becoming acquainted with the local wildlife. Do you have turtle ducks in the North?”

“No.”

“Pity. It was the late Fire Lady who introduced them to the palace grounds; they were my mother’s favorite. We would often come out and feed them flax bread together.” Zuko didn’t know what possessed him to add that bit of personal information. He cleared his throat and continued with a different inquiry. “How are you finding your stay with us thus far?”

“Your staff has been most … accommodating.”

“I am glad to hear they are treating you well.”

The time elapsing for her reply was growing. Unsure what else to do he spoke again skipping forth to the parting admissions. “The last guests will be arriving by weeks end. The day after all will be formally introduced. Until then, Lady-” Ah, agni, her name, “Kaszka.”

She blinked. Then bowed. “I look forward to it, Crown Fire Prince.”

He nodded his final goodbye, relieved. He and Takumi moved off to go about his other duties the inopportune stop had put him behind on for that morning.

Once back on the walk and moving away he growled at Takumi. “You are lucky you guessed her name right or you would be fired right now. You will memorize the names of all visiting dignitaries, the region they hail from and their roles there; as of that of their wives, children and their... pets. You will know the names and hobbies of all the potential bride candidates on sight. I will not be potentially embarrassed like this again!”

“Yes, my prince.” The thin man panted trying to keep up with his master’s long strides without appearing to run.

Just before they passed into the east side of the castle he looked behind him, feeling the water girls gaze on him, only to see she had already returned to watching the turtle ducks, completely unfazed by having met the prince of the nation. He was annoyed with himself at having been so enamored with her eyes when she didn’t seem to care a wit. At least he hadn’t embarrassed himself openly in front of her.

He groaned just thinking about scandal if he had called her by the wrong name and the slight had gotten back to her people.

[orbemnews]

When Covid-19 came for their community, these Choctaw tribal members mobilized to feed and protect families “I knew it was gonna be bad because we Natives, you look at the history, our immune systems are not built for a lot of stuff,” said Mask, who lives on the Pearl River Reservation near Philadelphia, Mississippi. Mask’s friend and fellow tribal member Marsha Berry also lives on the reservation, where many families live in multi-generational homes. She told CNN that early in the pandemic, as residents had to wait about a week for their test results, many unknowingly spread Covid-19 to parents and grandparents before learning they were positive. “We didn’t have any guidance, any type of Instruction on what to do. So, we kind of were left out to fend for ourselves,” Berry said. Those who tested positive were often unprepared to quarantine for 14 days, without enough food, supplies or a support system at home. Mask’s fiancé, Sandy Steve, shared the story of a mother of three in their community who was suffering from Covid-19. Her 7-year-old daughter had to continually wake her up to make sure she was still alive. “First thing I thought about,” Mask said, “was (this is) going to affect that child for the rest of her life.” The story angered Mask, but also inspired him to take action. He went on Facebook and “said some things that I shouldn’t have said,” but that’s when he also linked up with Berry, Steve, and another acquaintance Rian Willis to help. They decided to collect donated food and hygiene products for what was supposed to be a one-day drive last June, offering families exposed to the coronavirus much-needed supplies. They secured a former Dollar General location to collect the items, and Berry announced the donation drive on a Facebook Live video. The community’s response was overwhelming. The group received far more donations than they were able to give away in one afternoon. Unable to fit the excess items in their homes, they turned the former Dollar General store into a temporary headquarters for their effort, which they named “Honoring the Choctaw Spirit.” Donations rolled in over the summer as the virus spread to more families. While the local Choctaw Health Center was the first stop for most tribal members, helicopters flew the sicker Covid-19 patients to a hospital in Jackson, Mississippi — about 80 miles away. Mask said he would hear choppers flying over his house every night. Berry recalled the emotional toll of the constant airlifts. “I remember sitting here so many times and just … putting my hands over my ears so that I wouldn’t hear the helicopters, because the helicopters came three or four times a day to pick up another tribal member,” she said. “The majority of [them] never made it back home.” Mask has lost family members to the pandemic, including a cousin who was just three months younger than him; they shared a crib and grew up together. “He was healthy … and a week later, he’s in the hospital with it. It just blows you away … you talk to somebody one day and the next day they’re gone.” The Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians claim about 11,000 members. As of March 18, they had lost 113 members. The tribe’s cultural losses are staggering. Mask says they lost the wife of a former chief, storytellers, traditional dancers, and stickball players, which he describes as a game similar to lacrosse. “We were in a constant state of grief,” Berry said. “Having to deal with death on a daily basis, we almost became desensitized. Our funeral rites were taken from us because we couldn’t gather. We couldn’t mourn.” The group kept the donation drives going every Saturday through the summer. Eventually, as the numbers of new cases began to decrease, Mask and other tribal members returned to their jobs. Honoring the Choctaw Spirit then moved its effort online, creating a Facebook Group to connect with exposed families and allow them to request specific donations. After his overnight shift as a pit manager at the Pearl River Resort, Mask would return home for a few hours of sleep before driving deliveries to those in need. Nowadays, donation requests spread mostly through word of mouth or Facebook posts, Mask said. He is also running a drive to fill Easter Baskets for tribal children who lost loved ones in the pandemic. Mask acknowledges some tribal members are hesitant about getting the Covid-19 vaccine. He admits that he was scared, but given his work environment, he was glad to get it. Seeing casino patrons refusing to wear a mask frustrates him, he says, and he has a message for them: “While you may wanna die, I have a responsibility to these people out here.” Despite all the losses, Mask and Berry say they see a silver lining in this tragedy: their drives unified tribal members to help each other while reacquainting old friends and building relationships. Mask, who still makes deliveries to those affected by Covid-19, also gained a sense of personal satisfaction from this work. “I didn’t grow up the perfect person in the world or anything, but I went to sleep every night with a smile on my face knowing I’m going to heaven. That sounds stupid, but it’s my mindset now.” Source link Orbem News #Choctaw #community #Covid19 #families #Feed #Members #mobilized #protect #Tribal