#best places in Kenya

[travelernight]

10 Wonderful Places To Visit In Kenya

[lionheartlr]

Discovering Namibia: A Traveler's Guide to the Jewel of the Desert

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of southern Africa? Namibia, a land of vast deserts, rugged coastlines, and diverse wildlife, beckons travelers with its untamed beauty and rich cultural heritage. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll delve into Namibia’s fascinating history, highlight its top attractions, and provide essential tips for planning your…

[pxlheaux]

Your favorites, out to eat at Olive Garden, to celebrate their accomplishment on making enough money to build a little home for themselves. I’m so proud. Karter was sent to Kenya’s mom’s house so he wouldn’t feel cold or left out while at dinner. As you can see, Kenya has the official “Yes, I’m a mother” haircut for the Winter.

[farmerstrend]

Nectarine Farming in Kenya: The Current State of Nectarine Farming Industry

Nectarine farming in Kenya is experiencing a steady growth trajectory, reflecting broader trends in the country’s horticultural sector. Nectarines, a close relative of peaches, have found favorable conditions in the Kenyan climate, especially in regions with temperate climates such as the highlands. This fruit, known for its smooth skin and sweet flavor, is increasingly popular both locally and…

[onlinewordworld]

Affordable Car Financing in Mombasa with Simba Corp

Discover the perfect blend of utility, luxury, and affordability with Mitsubishi commercial trucks for your business needs. Indulge in the culinary delights of Nairobi's fancy restaurants, offering a gastronomic journey like no other. Need budget-friendly car financing? Look no further than Mombasa, where Simba Corp provides attractive deals to make owning your dream car a reality. Explore now!

[orneryjenrn]

Best Sugar Mummy Hookup Sites Tanzania - The Best Dating Apps and Websites for Sugar Dating

Sugar mummy dating sites are an essential source of information for people in search of love. In the digital age, there are many ways to find your partner, but the best way is to use traditional sugar dating sites. Online dating with rich sponsors has become increasingly popular in recent years as people become familiar with technology and digital media. The development of new technologies has…

[kimtours]

Best African Safari Tours

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Africa with Kim Tours - your trusted partner for the best African safari tours! From stunning wildlife safaris to unforgettable cultural experiences, we offer a wide range of tailor-made packages that cater to every type of traveler. https://kim.tours/safari/tours

[a-simple-imagine]

Perfectly Pathetic

synopsis: when you take an interest in the new girl, regina takes an interest in you

pairing: regina george x plastics!fem!reader

words: 4.6k+

A/N - in the nicest of ways, please DO NOT read this if you don't want to read about toxic relationships. you have been warned. I don't want a repeat of last time. also we need more fics where regina is actually mean so

WARNINGS - swearing, alcohol use, general toxicity, toxic relationships and bullying/vague reference to weight

Buy me a ko-fi

the clash of plastic trays and idle chatter brought alive the fragile student body of North Shore High School. on the outside this may seem like any other lunch room but inside it was a carefully crafted game of chess. every move was calculated. each person has their place and if you stray too far you're at risk. you're sat next to Gretchen Weiners. known for big hair and keeping secrets, she knows everything about everyone. opposite her is Karen Shetty. she... tries her best and looks adorable doing it. a ray of sunshine if you get to know her. and before you sits the most beautiful woman you have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Regina George. effortlessly perfect but needlessly cruel. she was the most popular person in school and one of your best friends.

perfectly manicured nails stab into the skin of your cheek as your head is yanked in her direction. razor-sharp eyes stare back. "are you even listening?" the answer was no but you didn't want to say that. "what are you staring at?"

a flash of blonde as she looks behind her. you push against her grip to look too. across the room sat Janis 'imi'ike and Damian Hubbard. you hardly ever spoke to them but you were lab partners with Damian. he was funny. today, however, there was a new addition with strawberry blonde hair, a blue checkered shirt and brown pants. you knew everyone at this school to some degree. a curse of popularity. but you had never seen her before. "seems they've got themselves a new friend"

"who cares," her nails dig a little deeper drawing a pained expression as she pulls your head back to face her. She holds your gaze for a moment. a silent challenge. before fingertips glide across your cheek and she goes back to leading the conversation across the table. you pick at the food on the tray with a fork but you can't help but be intrigued. North Shore was boring and predictable. a direct result of being under Regina's control. but this girl was new and you couldn't help but be drawn to that. to the unknown. to the possibility. three pairs of eyes as you push up from the table and march across the room.

"I haven't seen you around here before." was all you could think to say as you approached the end of the table. Janis and Damian share a look before settling on... confusion. You weren't ever particularly mean to others but you were guilty by association. people mess with you. they mess with Regina.

"oh," by the look on her face, she already knew who you were or at the very least your friends. "it's my first day."

"Where did you transfer from?"

"uh... Kenya," she seems unsure. you put it down to nerves.

"you sure about that?" a curious raise of your brow. "'cause you don't sound-"

"we're leaving" stated firmly as three girls breeze past. the blonde leads the way. the other two are just a step behind.

"so what made you move all the way here from Kenya?"

"my mom got a new job."

"couldn't find one-"

the sound of your name echoes through the room bringing the world to a stop. a weird silence settles over the room. "come. now." growled through gritted teeth and paired with snapping fingers. you were being summoned like a naughty dog ignoring their owner. a sigh as all eyes fall to you. waiting to see what you'd do but make no mistake, they already knew the answer.

"I'll see you around." a flash of a smile before you scamper after Regina.

"so your ears do work." is all the girl says as she shoves you through the door. you bite back any comment because that was how this worked. you may be top of the food chain to everyone else but Regina led the pack.

as the final bell for the day rings, you're shoving things in your locker when you spot the new girl. she seems to be struggling to even open it. you watch her for a moment. a smirk settling. this was another chance to talk and this time Regina couldn't demand your presence. "need some help?" it seemed to take her by surprise as a handful of papers drifted to the floor. a small chuckle, you reach down to collect her work and hand it back. "how's your first day going?"

she shrugs, taking the papers. "it's alright."

"anyone giving you any trouble?" you ask, falling to lean against the lockers. people around here were not nice and took every chance to show it. some more than others. She shakes her head. "you sure? if anyone does anything, I can sort them out." you give her a knowing look and she offers a sort of amused smile. "so you do know how to smile, it's cute. are you gonna tell me your name or am I gonna have to guess?"

"it's cady. Cady heron."

"well, cady heron. the trick to these," you tap her locker door with your knuckle. "is to push in and pull up before trying to open it. annoying, I know but they're old." you watch her try again and this time it swings open. "see."

"Thanks." you linger as they shove some of their stuff inside. you notice a few stray stickers on the locker opposite.

"no problem." you push up from the metal. "I can show you all types of tricks to get through this hellscape if you want?" she shuts her locker and you both start walking towards the exit. "number one tip, avoid Regina."

"Isn't she your friend?"

"yeah," you nod. "that's why I said it. She can be... a lot. surely Janis told you that."

Cady looks at you for a long moment. "something like that." you let out a chuckle. Janis probably told her what a massive bitch Regina was. they had a less than favourable history.

"I should go. I'll see you around Cady Heron." as you both go your separate ways, you can't help but glance at her as she walks away.

having a study period just before lunch was both an absolutely ridiculous idea and the best thing to happen to your schedule. it basically guaranteed you didn't do any work whatsoever and felt more like a two-hour lunch period. seems you shared it with the new girl because she was sitting at a table scribbling in a book alongside Janis who was doing her normal embroidery or whatever.

"if it isn't Cady Heron," you comment, taking a seat on the bench. her face brightens at the sight.

"where's the rest of the coven?" Janis asks, not even bothering to look up from her work. "wait- don't tell me, a house fell on them."

"you're so funny Janis," an exaggerated sarcastic laugh.

"I think I can hear children singing... ding... dong the witch-"

"So Cady, how are you enjoying north shore?" you interrupt loudly and the 'song' trails off.

"It's fine."

"you don't talk much huh?"

her mouth opens but falls silent as Gretchen approaches the end of the table. she shoots you a less than favourable look. your brow furrows a little.

"Can I talk to you," pitch a little too high to say no.

"Sure," a shrug. you look at her for a long moment waiting for her to continue.

"in private," Gretchen urges. with a roll of your eyes, you stand up. flashing a smile at Cady, Gretchen grabs your hand and drags you away before you can say anything.

"what are you doing?" whisper yelled at you.

"I was just talking." god this girl was dramatic. you take your usual spot. she sits opposite.

"to the art freaks?"

"dude, it's fine."

"no it's not." she urges quickly, shaking her head "You know how Regina gets."

"Regina isn't here?" and she wouldn't be until lunch. only you and Gretchen share this free period. usually, you spend it listening to her gossip about people. she could not keep a secret to save her life at least not when it came to anyone outside of you and your friends; even then it's dicey. fun for you though.

"All I'm saying is you need to be careful,"

"don't worry. I was only interested in the new girl."

"that's worse," you just roll your eyes. "Regina doesn't like her."

"Regina doesn't even know her," you argue. "none of us do. she's been here like a week."

Gretchen thinks the idea of even wanting to talk to Cady is blasphemy. that it's better to avoid her but you think she's overreacting. Cady hadn't established herself at this school yet. right now she is with Janis but tomorrow who knows? she could be cool. it's a matter of perspective.

a pretty perfect smile does little to distract from playful eyes as you approach her jeep. the blonde is in the driver's seat. one hand rested over the steering wheel. the other typing something on her phone. She had sent a message telling you to hurry up but on arrival, neither Karen nor Gretchen were even here yet. you toss your bag in the back, climbing into your usual spot behind the driver's seat. Karen is usually next to you. "sit in the front, weirdo," she comments. you don't bother with a comeback, just moving to the front passenger seat.

"Where are the others?" you ask, glancing at her. the soft glow of the afternoon sun kissed her skin beautifully. black shades hang on the end of her nose. She really was something to be admired. Regina shrugs and then tosses her phone down. the car roars to life and you're starting down the road before you can think any more about it. it's pretty silent at first. the sound of the radio filling the space. the lack of your two other friends acting as a buffer was sitting weirdly. this wasn't your first time alone with Regina but she's been so grumpy lately. whatever you say feels like an invitation.

"so you like the new girl?" asked casually as she came to an abrupt stop at a red light. you just forward, the seatbelt digging into your neck. it drags up a quick cough but that could also be from surprise. other than that first interaction where she'd summoned you from across the room, you had never spoken to Cady when she was around. Gretchen may be dramatic but she probably wasn't wrong and you really didn't feel like risking it.

"Sorry?" feign confusion was... a choice but it seemed like the better option here.

"you like the new girl," repeated calmly; her eyes drift to you as yours move towards the traffic light. was this the longest red light in history? "right?"

now it's your turn to shrug. you find Cady intriguing but you're not entirely sure if it's interested in the way Regina is implying or just because you were so bored of the every day. "she's cool." a scoff as she pulls away continuing down the road. "you've hardly spoken to her."

"don't need to," Regina didn't miss a beat. Cady definitely didn't fit into what she'd consider cool but then again, neither had you. not entirely anyway and now you're here. you hang out with the most popular people in school. went to the hottest parties. you were currently being driven around by the Regina George. you never understood why or maybe you did and just refused to accept it was that simple. you know what everyone else says. that it's because of the attention you show her. you wouldn't necessarily say they're wrong but everyone gave her attention. She did always say there was something special about you. "I thought you at least had standards."

the rest of the car ride is silent as you think over what she said and Regina keeps to herself. the music is the only thing, keeping you sane until you pull up at the George residence. you always forget just how big her house is until you're there. As you walk inside, her mum appears abruptly startling you a little.

"hey, ms. George."

"hey girls," she singsonged. "how was school?"

"fine," Regina shoots back.

"well if you need anything? a drink? some snacks? advice? I'm here,"

"I'd actually love an iced-"

"we're good," growled as she grabbed your wrist hauling you up the stairs. "don't bother us." a confused look but she didn't let go until you were firmly inside her bedroom. door slammed shut. the blonde tosses her bag down.

"you should really be nicer to your mom, she adores you," you say idly taking a seat on the end of her bed, placing your bag down.

"you should shut up because it's none of your fucking business."

jesus christ. you kinda regret the decision to come over. "I just wanted an iced tea. maybe a little snack."

"god knows you don't need it," Regina comments. wow. okay. she was in a mood.

"what's up with you?"

"I'm fine," she responds. "you're just being so fucking annoying recently."

"I haven't done anything?" you've not been acting any differently so you have no clue what she's talking about.

"just absolutely drooling over the new girl. it's embarrassing." she declares, taking a seat on the bed.

"I..." you stop yourself because you're more confused than anything else. "we've spoken like once."

"liar" she responds. "I know you've been talking all the time," fucking Gretchen. "do you think she's pretty?"

"Cady?" Regina nods. you shrug. "I guess."

"prettier than me?" her head tilts. you can't tell if she was jealous or fishing for compliments; neither was her style. so it was probably a trap.

"no." you wanna say she's being dramatic but that wouldn't end well. She doesn't say anything, hardly even reacts. just cold eyes. Is she expecting you to say more? "of course not." you're waiting for the ball to drop. for her to make a snide comment or something. anything was better than nothing. but it just never comes. she takes out her phone and starts typing. you fall back on her bed, staring up at the ceiling. you both just sit in the quiet. you're worried about saying anything that'll lead to more insults. god knows what she is doing on her phone.

"you're so pathetic." Regina eventually says. you'd take offence if you weren't used to it; basically a term of endearment at this point. you can hear her moving but don't bother looking until she's towering over you. dark eyes and a small smile that would seem genuine coming from anyone else. a hand cups your cheek but no nails follow; it's gentle and slow as she runs her thumb over your skin. what was happening right now? "do you ever think about me?" you blink a few times trying to make sense of everything. why was she being so nice? why was she being so gentle? why did she ask that?

"what do you mean?"

a roll of her pretty eyes. "you know what I mean." you did but surely not.

"I... don't know what to say."

"Because I think about you," your breathing hitches as you sit up. looking at her properly. "those pretty eyes," she moves closer. "these lips," her thumb runs over your bottom lip. you swallow hard. "do you wanna kiss me?" you just stare back. a smirk as she ghosts your lips.

"say you wanna kiss me." this felt cruel. you lean in and she pulls back slightly. a finger pressed against your lips. her expression is colder now. sharp. "say it."

"I... wanna kiss you," you dare and that smirk quickly returns. removing her finger, Regina leans in and connects your lips. it's soft and slow. not at all like you imagined kissing Regina George would feel like... until the girl pushes into you and it's exactly like you imagined. fast. forceful. like she wanted to devour you. A hand pushes you back against her massive bed and she moves to straddle your hips. your heart is beating so loudly you wouldn't be surprised if she could hear it.

"still thinking about the new girl?"

"I never-" You feel her press a little harder against your chest so you change your answer. "no." Regina tosses her hair over one shoulder, and a finger under your chin pushes your head up.

"I don't think you should talk to her anymore," Regina states before leaning down to connect your lips once more. "understood?"

you're too caught up in the moment to really gauge how serious she was being so you nod. "good girl." whispered against your lips.

Regina George had always been a lot. She always demanded attention and you often gave her it. you weren't ashamed of that. She knew you'd do anything for her. As did most of the school.

"Hey," Cady suddenly appears beside you in the hallway. she seems a lot more relaxed around you which was nice to see. however, you have not spoken to them since that weird night with Regina. She wouldn't like it. plus Gretchen would probably snitch on you immediately. "so we should probably figure out a time to work on our project." you've been paired up for an assignment in American literature.

"We can do it today after school if you want?" she nods. "I'll meet you out front."

"hey Cady," Karen slides up beside you on the other side, instantly looping your arms. ever the pleasant company. you wonder if she just wanted to see you or get you away from Cady. probably the former.

"I'll see you later," you say to the new girl before turning to your friend. "what do you want?"

"you're coming to Connor's party Saturday?"

"Obviously,"

"I have the perfect-"

"no," you respond instantly. you loved Karen. she was genuinely the sweetest person you know. but at every party, she tries to give you a Karen Shetty special aka a makeover. and every single time you have to say no.

"but I have the perfect outfit for you."

"is it actually perfect for me or just slutty."

"Both," Karen states excitedly. "please," pleading eyes as she draws you closer, hugging your arm. "please please please."

a loud groan. "fine."

"Really?" her eyes light up and circulation quickly returns to your arm. you nod at her which leads to excited clapping. maybe it wouldn't be so bad. maybe it was the perfect outfit for you but also sexy enough to satisfy Karen.

"oh here," you reach into your bag and produce a homemade friendship bracelet. you'd been tutoring some younger students for extra credit but sometimes you just hung out with them. "made them with some of the kids so,"

"ah thank you," she takes it eagerly. you had one for Gretchen and Regina too. only one of them would appreciate it though.

"why were you chatting with Cady?" Karen asks, sliding on her bracelet as she takes your arm once more.

"we're doing a project together," you explain. "you were literally just in class with us Karen."

"oh yeah," she smiles brightly. "I'm starving." you chuckle a little and allow her to eagerly pull you towards the dining room.

you're sitting on the grass. Cady is talking in your ear as you stare into the distance. most students had gone home already. The rest were working on homework or projects or extracurricular activities. you arranged this meeting but god were you bored. no offence to Cady but you kinda wish you'd been paired with Karen so you could be fucking about right now and then rush the work the night before it's due.

"are you going to the party Saturday?" you ask idly.

"What party?"

"oh shit." you forgot she was hanging out with Janis and Damian who definitely wouldn't have been invited. "connor mckay is having a party. The dudes a mess, big house though. you should come,"

"don't think I was invited,"

"I'm inviting you."

"not sure that's how it works."

"Just come Cady," you insist. "you can bring Janis and Damian too if you want. everyone will be too fucked to notice."

"uh, thanks then" she smiles a little, glancing back at her textbook. "I'll think about it."

"you have to think about attending your first high school party?" you question. laying down on your back. "I'll be there," you turn your head to look at them. "it'll be fun." you watch her carefully and soon she smiles.

"Okay, yeah."

"well that was easy," should have just started by stating you'll be there. "Be careful, Cady." you tease, looking back to clouds passing by but you can't help but smirk a little. "I'll start thinking you like me."

sat in the back of Regina's jeep as she fixes her hair in the overhead mirror, Karen inspects your face while Gretchen is copying Regina by fixing her hair. "can we just go in," you insist, slapping Karen's hands away. "before I regret coming."

"Why would you regret coming?" Gretchen questions, looking around at you.

"I feel stupid,"

"you look amazing," Karen urges. "perfect."

"you would say that."

"stop whining," Regina insists. flipping up her mirror. "you look hot. now let's go."

finally. "I'm gonna get so fucked up," you state as you step out of the car. walking beside Regina with Gretchen and Karen a step behind. the party is already alive. started at six. It was eight.

you reach the point in every party where you just don't want to be there anymore pretty quickly tonight. you're suddenly so aware of how annoying everyone is. sat on the kitchen counter, you swing your legs back and forth as you sip whatever was in your cup. Gretchen gave it to you. the party passes around you like you're not even there until an all too familiar blonde appears. "you look sad," you'd mistake that for genuine concern if it wasn't Regina "Already at sad drunk, that's impressive."

"what do you want Regina?" she had basically ignored you since you arrived so why she suddenly thought you were worthy of her presence, you'll never know. Shane was the object of her disgustingly public displays of affection tonight. "thought you'd be too busy with Shane."

"god, you're so obsessed with Shane," a roll of her eyes as she takes the cup from your hand to help herself. you watch her as the red cup comes to painted lips. not a hair out of place. so perfect. Regina was perfect. it was annoying

"I invited Cady tonight," you state, snatching your cup back.

"ew. why? I thought we agreed you weren't going near Cady anymore," technically you did. practically it wasn't that deep. who cares.

"And Janis and Damian but mostly to get Cady here,"

"desperate to hang out with losers," Regina sighs. "is she here?"

you shrug. "too many people. too big a house. I haven't looked, to be honest."

"Well," a hand finds its way to your thigh, running up and then down softly. "if you're good tonight maybe I'll give you a little treat."

"don't," you push her hand away. "go back to your boyfriend."

"he's not my boyfriend,"

"well whatever he is," you jump down off the countertop. "you made it very clear that I'm not what you want."

"you're so dramatic," she pushes up too. "I hate when you get drunk."

"Whatever."

"fuck sake," Regina responds. "you act like I said we're together or something."

"you're such an asshole," you huff. "I'm gonna find Cady."

"good luck with that,"

there are so many people at this party. you're not sure who half of them even are but they all seem to know you as you stumble around after the new girl. a constant barrage of 'hellos' and 'you look hot' in various forms. it's tiring. annoying. and you're about to give up and go find Gretchen so she can rub your back to make you feel better when you spot her. She was looking as awkward as ever. "you came." shouted over the thump of the music

"yeah," her face lit up. "Damian too. Janis said she'd rather jump off a bridge than come so..."

"That sounds... exactly like her," you nod. "I like..." you glance at her outfit. Regina would hate it. you don't love it. "your outfit. very school teacher chic."

"Thanks," she replies. "I didn't have anything to wear so,"

"it's cool. I'm just happy someone here isn't gonna irritate me- do you want a drink?"

"Sure," she nods. "do they have juice?"

"uh... probably somewhere." who asks for juice at a party? "I'll check. stay here."

you wander off back to the kitchen in search of some juice. your first stop is the fridge which is very stocked. you briefly scan for anything open, sweet and edible before just grabbing a carton of fresh orange and deciding that will do. pouring her a glass before heading back. she's still in the same spot only a particular blonde in the tightest little black dress has decided to strike up a conversation. you immediately know something is wrong. Regina can't stand Cady. it's why you told her you admitted to inviting her so easily. You wanted to piss her off. you can't make out what is happening but as you make your approach the redhead leaves. Regina turns to you with a sugary sweet smile betrayed by her eyes. "hey baby girl, feeling any better?"

"What did you say to her?"

"why do you have a glass of" brow knitted as she tapped her nail against the glass. "orange juice?"

"What did you say to her?"

"who?" you let her have the glass and she takes a sip. a visible look of disgust. "is there anything in this?"

"It's just fresh orange,"

"what the fuck? are you trying to sober up or what?"

"it was for Cady," you explain. "what did you say?"

the blonde shrugs. "she just had to go. not my fault." you don't believe her. why would you? She has a track record of being a conniving person who'll make trouble just for the sake of it. it'd be naive to think she didn't do anything."

"Why do you have to be such a fucking bitch all of the time," you grumble loudly. a hand snaps around your wrist and suddenly you're yanked closer to her. hot breath sending a shiver down your spine.

"I let you off before because you were all sad and tragic but don't think you can ever talk to me like that," growled in your ear before she abruptly shoved you away. "Cady left. get over it."

"she only left because you said something,"

"she left because she realised you don't like her," the blonde snapped. such a pretty poison came in the form of Regina George as she turned her gaze on you. She was pissed but kept it quietly contained to just beneath the music so nobody else had a clue. "that you've just been stringing her along. pretending to be her friend. all because I wasn't showing you enough attention," she's close again. too close. she wasn't physically that tall but right she seemed massive as she loomed over you. her eyes flicker to your lips and back up. did she wanna kiss you or kill you? neither seemed smart. "she realised that you belong to me."

"I'm not a dog Regina."

"you sure about that," a mean glint in those pretty eyes. "you wanted my attention. you got it." she shoves the orange juice back in your hand. it's contents splashing your hand. "don't cry about it now." and with that she turns on her heel and disappears into the crowd

// NEXT

[zvaigzdelasas]

Haiti’s deepening crisis — armed groups launching an assault on the government, and the de facto prime minister on indefinite layover in the San Juan, Puerto Rico airport — is a predictable consequence of 14 years of U.S. support for undemocratic regimes connected to Haiti’s PHTK party as it has dismantled Haiti’s democracy.

Haiti has a chance at reversing this descent and returning to a more stable, democratic path, but only if the Biden administration will let it.

Prime Minister Ariel Henry was stranded in San Juan Tuesday on his way back from Kenya, where he had signed an agreement for Kenyan police to come bolster his repressive, corrupt and unpopular regime. The armed groups, including many that had collaborated with Henry’s regime, took advantage of his absence to attack government infrastructure, and free 5,000 prisoners, many of them members of armed groups. Henry had planned to fly to the neighboring Dominican Republic and take a helicopter ride back to Haiti’s National Palace under the cover of darkness. But Dominican authorities refused entry to the prime minister’s chartered plane, which re-routed to San Juan.

Prime Minister Henry has not yet resigned, and the State Department denied reports that it demanded his resignation. But Henry has clearly lost the support of the United States, which for two years had allowed him to resist Haitians demands for fair elections. Absent Washington’s support, Henry has little chance of regaining power.

This dire situation is not only predictable, it was predicted. Haitian-American officials, Haitian civil society, members of the U.S. Congress, and other experts had been warning for years that the U.S. propping up Henry would lead to increasing tragedy for Haitians. The United States, which installed Henry in power in the first place, ignored these pleas and stood resolutely by its friend. With U.S. support, Henry’s unconstitutional term as prime minister exceeded any other prime minister’s term under Haiti’s 1987 Constitution. Levels of gang violence, kidnapping, hunger, and misery also reached unprecedented levels.

The United States is still insisting on getting Kenyan troops to Haiti. The State Department has persistently — if so far unsuccessfully — tried to deploy non-American boots onto Haitian ground since Henry requested them in October 2022. The mission’s deployment initially stalled because it was widely rejected as a bad idea that will primarily serve to prop up the repressive regime that generated the crisis. Haitian civil society [groups] repeatedly insisted that the first step towards security must be a transitional government with the legitimacy to organize elections and determine how the international community can best help Haiti.

Concerns that the intervention would serve only to reinforce an unpopular regime led the countries that the Biden administration first tapped to lead the mission, including Canada, Haiti’s Caribbean neighbors, and Brazil, to pass. The U.N. itself concluded that the mission would require too much “robust use of force” to be appropriate for a peacekeeping mission. So, the Security Council took the unusual step of authorizing the mission, but on the condition that it not actually be a U.N. mission that the organization would have to take responsibility for. The Biden administration, likely concerned about election-year cell phone videos of troops shooting indiscriminately in crowded neighborhoods — as the last foreign intervention did — declined to send U.S. troops for the mission (but is considering deploying a small Marine contingent to Haiti in early March).

Last August Kenya — which did not even have diplomatic relations with Haiti but did need the hundreds of millions of dollars that the United States offered — agreed to lead the mission. The exploratory delegation Kenya sent to evaluate conditions in Haiti quickly realized how deadly the planned mission would be for Haitians and Kenyans alike, and proposed to limit its scope to protecting public infrastructure.

The United States was not open to renegotiating the deal, and Kenya withdrew its proposed limits. But Kenya’s High Court temporarily blocked the deployment as unconstitutional. Ariel Henry’s visit to Kenya was for the signature of an accord that Kenya’s President William Ruto hoped would overcome the court’s objections. Kenyan lawyers insist that the agreement itself is illegal, and are continuing their challenge. In the meantime, Kenyan officers who had volunteered for the mission are changing their minds. Another obstacle appeared on March 7, when the White House conceded that the mission cannot be deployed without congressional approval of funding.

The State Department’s insistence that the Kenyan deployment must nevertheless happen raises fears that the United States will also continue its policy of installing and propping up undemocratic regimes in Haiti. Finance Minister Patrick Boisvert, who Henry tapped as interim prime minister when he left for Kenya, increased concerns of authoritarian governance on March 6 when he declared a three-day curfew and state of emergency throughout the Port-au-Prince region in an edict that did not even mention the legal basis for his authority. The next day Boisvert raised more fears by extending the emergency measures for a month and adding in a ban on all protests.

The State Department’s rescinding its support for Henry might have been promising had the gangs not already made his ouster inevitable. State’s claim that it now supports “an empowered and inclusive governance structure” that will “pave the way for free and fair elections” might have been promising if it had not added the condition that the new government must “move with urgency to help the country prepare for a multinational security support mission.”

A legitimate, broadly supported, sovereign transitional Haitian government might request foreign police assistance. But a government allowed to form only if it accepts a U.S.-imposed occupation force originally designed to prop up a hated, repressive government is not sovereign. It may not be legitimate or broadly-supported either.

The United States tasked CARICOM, the federation of Haiti’s Caribbean neighbors, to forge a civil society consensus. CARICOM has enjoyed credibility in Haiti in the past, but over the past few months it has faced criticism for trying to strong-arm civil society into an agreement that maintained Henry’s power. Not surprisingly, CARICOM-led talks on March 6 and 7 failed.

When allowed, Haitians have a history of coming together to make their way out of a crisis. Haiti became a country in 1804 by defeating Napoleon, with almost no outside help. In 1986, when the U.S. finally withdrew its support from Jean-Claude “Baby Doc” Duvalier, Haitians eventually wrested power from the military and held fair elections. In 2006, they voted their way out of the crisis created by the U.S. kidnapping of President Jean-Bertrand Aristide two years before. In August 2021, shortly after the killing of Haiti’s last president, Jovenel Moïse, a broad-based group presented the Montana Accord that would have created a transitional government leading to elections in two years. The U.S. vetoed the accord, citing, among other reasons, that the two-year time frame was too long. That was 30 months ago, and there are no elections in sight.No amount of submission to U.S. demands by Prime Minister Henry and his predecessors can justify the absolute horror that our support has allowed them to inflict on the Haitian people. It is time for the United States to let Haitians come together and make their way out of the current crisis. Civil society [groups] [see] an opportunity for democracy in the crisis, and people all over Haiti have been meeting, discussing and negotiating to develop platforms for a broad-based, legitimate transitional government that can hold fair elections. It is expected that soon — maybe within weeks — one of these platforms will rise to the top, and civil society will coalesce around it. The United States needs to let that process happen without interference or conditions.

8 Mar 24

[ladydeath-vanserra]

Inequality + Slums in Velaris

kinda 👀 at the people who think slums and designated Poor™️ areas are supposed to be normal, especially in acotar w Velaris. They *shouldn't* to be normal especially for VeLAriS

The UN Definition of a slum:

.... individuals living under the same roof lacking one or more of the following conditions: access to improved water, access to improved sanitation, sufficient living area, housing durability, and security of tenure

Slums form and grow in different parts of the world for many different reasons. Causes include rapid rural-to-urban migration, economic stagnation and depression, high unemployment, poverty, informal economy, forced or manipulated ghettoization, poor planning, politics, natural disasters, and social conflicts.

Rural–urban migration

Many people move to urban areas primarily because cities promise more jobs, better schools for poor's children, and diverse income opportunities than subsistence farming in rural areas.

this doesn't really apply to Velaris as it is a closed in separated city from the rest of the night court

Urbanization

Some scholars suggest that urbanization creates slums because local governments are unable to manage urbanization, and migrant workers without an affordable place to live in, dwell in slums.

Rapid urbanization drives economic growth and causes people to seek working and investment opportunities in urban areas.

However, as evidenced by poor urban infrastructure and insufficient housing, the local governments sometimes are unable to manage this transition. This incapacity can be attributed to insufficient funds and inexperience to handle and organize problems brought by migration and urbanization.

again, I don't see thus happening due to it being a private and secluded city unless they're taking in a rapid amount of SA survivors- the only outsiders brought into the city

Poor house planning

Insufficient financial resources and lack of coordination in government bureaucracy are two main causes of poor house planning.

This would mean that Rhysand is not paying attention to evenly distributed wealth or mindful government oversight in poor house planning. If there are low income folks, adequate housing is not being provided

Colonialism and segregation

Some of the slums in today's world are a product of urbanization brought by colonialism. For instance, the Europeans arrived in Kenya in the nineteenth century and created urban centers such as Nairobi mainly to serve their financial interests. They regarded the Africans as temporary migrants and needed them only for supply of labour.

The housing policy aiming to accommodate these workers was not well enforced and the government built settlements in the form of single-occupancy bedspaces. Due to the cost of time and money in their movement back and forth between rural and urban areas, their families gradually migrated to the urban centre. As they could not afford to buy houses, slums were thus formed.

I wouldn't say this qualified for Velaris, internally, but as for the Nightcourt as a whole, the separation of the CoN and Illyria from the golden city that is Velaris is very telling

The citizens of the CoN aren't allowed to leave the city and as we have seen from Rhysand, they will have businesses turn CoN citizens away in Velaris

Illyria is full of war torn camps where inequality thrives and there is not adequate housing or supplies, as we see when Cassian said he fought other children for supplies. We also see it when Cassian brings blankets for the Illyrians

Poor infrastructure, social exclusion and economic stagnation

Social exclusion and poor infrastructure forces the poor to adapt to conditions beyond his or her control. Poor families that cannot afford transportation, or those who simply lack any form of affordable public transportation, generally end up in squat settlements within walking distance or close enough to the place of their formal or informal employment.

This overall I feel best exemplifies Velaris. As far as we're made aware there aren't vehicles in Velaris and we don't make notice of any other forms of transportation besides winnowing. The closest we get is flying and we've only seen Cassian, Azriel, Rhysand and Feyre. With Winnowing, it's only Mor and Rhysand and Feyre.

Winnowing is not a common practice ability that all faeries have. There does seem to be a suggestion that there are people who can Winnow, though this is based on Rhysand telling Feyre about his dad being unable to Winnow into the HoW

This leaves many people being unable to have any form of transportation outside of walking.

Informal economy

Many slums grow because of growing informal economy which creates demand for workers. Informal economy is that part of an economy that is neither registered as a business nor licensed, one that does not pay taxes and is not monitored by local, state, or federal government.

There are very few businesses we see in Velaris. We see Rita's, the dive bar and some art studios. There isn't enough shown about legitimate businesses to really show much about an informal economy

Poverty

Urban poverty encourages the formation and demand for slums. With rapid shift from rural to urban life, poverty migrates to urban areas. The urban poor arrives with hope, and very little of anything else. They typically have no access to shelter, basic urban services and social amenities. Slums are often the only option for the urban poor.

Poverty has been witnessed with especially the Illyrians. But within Velaris, it stands to reason that the "grimy part of the city" where Nesta lives, and the bar she frequents, does not have the adequate infrastructure in place for proper wages- which would be Rhysands responsibility to make sure a minimums wage where people could thrive would exist

tldr: Velaris has slums and it's through Rhys' shitty job as a high lord by not creating adequate social systems or infrastructure where poor folks can live without being designated to the "grimy parts of the city"

[nanamis-bigtie]

nonsexual acts of intimacy ↬ sharing a dessert

❧ okkotsu yuta x gn!reader | cw: aged up character, food ❧

"Hey, you promised you won't take a peek before I call you."

You have been doing your best to not be spotted but Yuta has still somehow sensed your presence despite not even looking over his shoulder. With an apron neatly tied behind his back and hair pulled back by a hairband he's standing by the induction stove and gently—but steadily—stirring something in a saucepan. At first glance, he seems to be so absorbed by his task that nothing in this world, but his cooking existed for him, and so you assumed when you got tempted into breaking the promise. But he's sharp as ever, as if the kitchen in your shared apartment called for the same amount of focus as a fierce battlefield.

"I'm hungry," you pout and lean against the doorway, frozen in your place as if his territory was guarded by a barrier. Yuta isn't a person who's irritated by other's presence when he's cooking, but you did give a word and then broke it and let yourself be caught sneaking a peek. Anyone would feel stupid in your place.

He doesn't answer at first, focused on the steady, circular move and the size of flame under the saucepan—but finally takes a little turn and smiles at you in that characteristic, almost apologizing way, as if he was trying to scold a child in the gentlest way possible.

"I need a little more of your patience, Y/N." His gaze flicks back to the stove and he decreases the size of the flame. "I'm almost finished."

At this point standing on the threshold feels more awkward than crashing into the kitchen so you take a careful step—and upon not being scolded, you advance further until you're taking a look over his shoulder, "And what exactly is that?"

The saucepan is full of melted chocolate (and as much you could tell from distance by the smell alone)—but thicker and smoother than what you expected to find. Yuta keeps it away from boiling and his steady moves help the desired consistency remain as he's thinning it with cream and mixing in some spices, "A base for chocolate fondue."

"Didn't know they teach how to make such fancy desserts in a jujutsu establishment."

"They do, if you're in Marseilles."

"Marseilles?" You cock an eyebrow. "And when did you get to France, exactly? I thought you stayed in Kenya when you were abroad."

"That—" Yuta gives the liquid chocolate one last gentle stir before he turns and steals a quick peck from your lips. "—is my sweet little secret."

He turns the stove off, then carefully pours the chocolate into a bowl with tealights underneath. He lights them, then stirs the fondue until he's sure the texture has remained unchanged.

"Is it sweet enough?" He reaches towards the prepared prior pile of treats—cut fruit, marshmallows and crackers—and chooses a hearty piece of strawberry. It's dipped into the chocolate, then offered to your lips, all with a beaming smile on your partner's face.

Yuta is the sweetest boyfriend you've ever seen but you know him enough to learn all his tricks and mischiefs by heart. Something about his expression and pose tells you there might be a trap behind all of this—but the juicy strawberry covered in velvety chocolate is too much of a temptation.

You open your mouth and almost purr in pleasure when he puts the treat on your tongue and the flavors hit your tastebuds. It's intense but not overwhelming, and the acidity of the fruit perfectly balances the sweetness of the fondue.

You savor the treat for longer than you normally would, as if you were sipping on delicious ambrosia rather than testing a dessert. You can't bring yourself to just swallow the bite, prolonging the moment until you're almost short on breath—and to your own demise as Yuta suddenly leans close and catches your lips with a kiss. Deep kiss, you soon learn, mewling softly around his tongue sliding against yours and teasing you, until you give in and abandon the heavenly pleasures for his sake. No food, no matter how delicious, can taste as good as Yuta's kisses.

But right as your eyes close in pleasure, hand slowly reaching towards the back of his head to pull him close, Yuta withdraws as fast and smooth as he leaned for it, and still has the gall to nip on your lips when you freeze, dumbfounded, and stare at him full of disappointment, with chocolate-stained saliva drooling at the corner of your mouth.

"I think it needs more vanilla." He says, after wiping it clean with a thumb, and then sucking on it as he bolts away from your hands, ready to smack any part of him you can reach.

a/n: did i remember about those drabbles & post the continuation 4 months after the last one? naaah, impossible, never happened

[hadesoftheladies]

"Not All Men" is a War Propaganda Tactic

i just watched a tragic documentary on the british colonial regime in kenya with my mom and dad, and they were talking to me about the experiences of my grandparents during the era of slavery, resistance and concentration camps and i learned so much about the history of my family, country and tribe and how my mom and dad came from different sides of class history in kenya

that's a story i'll share later on here sometime

but one thing that struck me that i wanted to talk about was how documents indicting the british government of horrific cruelty were buried and sometimes addressed as isolated incidents

the british government, despite the uncovering of the hanslope disclosure files, denied that they sanctioned or approved of any of those things

systemically sanctioned practices, once exposed, were then announced to be isolated events due to the irresponsibility of a particular branch or administration

basically, when the human rights violations came up (and this was addressed in i think 2013), the british government denied direct involvement and acted as if it were just a few men gone rogue

and that propaganda WORKED

there are british people today (and even some kenyans) who don't think the colonial regime was all that oppressive; maybe legally wrong, but not monstrous and sordid and grotesque

and it really is an effective war tactic to blame individuals so that the system itself is ignored. you send concerned, everyday people chasing after villains in narratives you created, throwing your minions to the wolves so they're off your trail, while insisting that the system and the people who uphold the system are at worst benign and, at best benevolent

so it stops the people from organizing against the system

this is also the case with feminism

every time women participate in consciousness-raising, the people and events that would serve as proof of the failure of the system and how those in power are unfit to rule, the conversation quickly dissolves into "not all men" or "do you think women are naturally more moral than men? that's bio-essentialism."

guys . . . this is a tried and true propaganda war tactic. it is effective because not only does it distract anyone willing to do their part to make the world a better place, but it successfully discredits the evidence and voices of victims as "fringe" and no one's fault but the individual's. it's really just a form of gaslighting.

eventually, people end up getting mad at the tumors while not dealing with or seeing cancer. they'll denounce that convicted serial rapist/killer because his crimes are visible, provocative and out there

but the moment a woman opens her mouth to criticize rape as culture in bdsm or porn, it's "not all men" because the only bad men are those men, those bad ones on tv whose mugshots we've seen

we've seen this happen with men defending andrew tate, and then backing down when he's arrested for human trafficking, but no feminist was shocked because we recognized tate's rhetoric and the system it was born in, we saw the natural conclusions, we know where the tumor is coming from

but we're only supposed to talk about the tumor, because that's the most visible and provocative

so the cancer continues to spread quietly and freely

[wannaeatramyeon]

Gun Park x Reader: this is our place (we make the rules)

Chapter 2 - Probably should read ch1 first Gun has a new neighbour. Index: Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Chapter 3 | Chapter 4 | Chapter 5 | Chapter 6 | Chapter 7 | Chapter 8 | Chapter 9 | Chapter 10 | Epilogue

Good manners cost nothing.

Certaining when you barely had a few wons to your name, that was all you could afford. And your pride.

So just because your neighbour essentially said ‘leave me alone, have a nice life’, he still did you a favour. 

That you owe him for.

Love thy neighbour and all that.

.

.

Gun Park’s home is not homely by any stretch of the imagination.

All black and white and grey, nearly industrial in taste with wooden accents. Straight lines and sharp edges softened by nature’s hues.

Very few furnishings adorn his apartment, minimal and just shy of clinical. Anything that has a place is the best of the best, luxurious and with an exorbitant price tag to match.

Handcrafted bed from Sweden, which apart from Gun’s, has not experienced the same body twice.  

Imported italian coffee machine, used only with beans from Kenya. Drink of choice: 2 shots of espresso, taken as is. 

Never-used cooking appliances, still brand new and silver and top of the range. 

L-shaped sectional sofa from one of the hottest designers in South Korea, selected and praised by HNH’s own Interior Designer with words that held no interest to Gun.

An obscenely huge bathtub in the corner of a spacious bathroom and facing a breathtaking view. A shower with a rainfall head amongst other sprays and nozzles. Both having washed away a lifetime (and then some)of dirt and grime and blood.

Enough space for a personal home gym in one room (even if the building does include a gym and pool for communal use), and a walk-in wardrobe the size of most other pads in Gangnam.

He’s not much for sentiment, just a couple of more meaningful trinkets here or there. Reminders of Japan and souvenirs from his victims. 

Most surprising of all, in a lone forgotten corner, outlined against the impressive, sprawling cityscape and where the best sun spot should be, sits a plant.

Given to him by Goo Kim as a joke for housewarming, “Let’s see how well you can keep something alive”.

Gun’s first urge was to throw it back in his face. Though. The idea of keeping something living intrigued him. A little challenge.

Healthy and vibrant and green with long spiky leaves when it was thrusted into Gun’s hands. 

It didn’t hold his attention for long.

Kept alive in the early days by the cleaner, before Gun realised he hated the idea of someone touching his things and being in his space. 

Now a sad, neglected eyesore. Shrivelled and brown and hanging on for dear life. Lucky to get a few squirts of water once a month; momentary rejuvenation until it is left to wither again.

And lastly.

Hidden in the cabinet below the huge TV, regularly rotated out for the latest model, lives a few gaming consoles.

...Because Gun is still a young bachelor after all. He isn’t completely immune from the psychological thrills of video games.

.

.

Minimal as it is, and busy as Gun is - it’s still his home.

A sanctuary full of things he has collated and deemed worthy enough to be in his life that he makes sure to regularly return to. 

Today, he’s ready for a weekend of nothing. No doubt his leg will bounce and get twitchy after a few hours, but the last few weeks of being on the go with the Four Crews has taken a toll.

Not to mention the hijinks with his neighbour yesterday. Someone that looks like they don’t belong in this district, nevermind in the building.

Yet you knocked on his door. 

On Shiro Oni’s door. 

Exuding a quiet confidence even as your body betrayed your nerves. Even as two spots of pink appeared on your cheeks once you took in the full view of Gun Park.

Most fascinating of all is that you saw his eyes, treated it as an everyday occurrence, and did not hesitate or flinch.

Huh.

.

.

You ring the doorbell again.

At first, you thought this was an excellent idea. 

But now, as you wait (seriously, what is Gun doing in there), you’re feeling more and more foolish.

Tupperwares of homemade kimchi stew, and kimchi sits in the crook of your elbow. 

Because when someone has enough money to drown in, and obviously someone living in this building should have, then there’s nothing like a homemade touch.

Here he comes. 

The footsteps don’t sound irritable today. Thank the heavens. Maybe antsy, a little too quick footed to be relaxed.

The door is flung open, and your neighbour greets you. 

Ok, his footsteps didn’t sound irritable but his face certainly is.

And how does this guy have this effect on you? 

Your throat dries up as you notice his hair flopping over one eye, no longer messy after a full day of what must be work, instead likely just leftover from his bedhead. 

(Bed. Head. your horrid nasty brain repeats as you think about his BED.)

The linen shirt and pants. Chest bared, pretty collar bones on show and teasing the outline of hard pecs. 

Relaxed mode, weekend mode.

Sleeves again rolled up and highlighting the tattoos and faint veins protruding on his forearms.

Seriously, did this guy choose the tattoo placement just to highlight his muscular forearms? Fuck him, it absolutely works. 

Gun crosses them, leaning against his open door and observing you. His face, previously not bothering to hide his annoyance at being interrupted by you once again, only shows amusement. Amused to see how hard you are ogling him. It’s not new, though many don’t make it this blatantly obvious.

“Morning,” You hear your voice cracking and clear your throat. “Here.”

You hold out your tupperware boxes.

No hands receive them. They just hang there, in the air between you both.

Gun doesn’t move, continuing to look at you with a hint of a smile and an arched brow.

“It’s thanks. For yesterday.” You give the boxes a little shake. Why the hell can’t this guy just take it. 

“No.” is all he gives, retreating back and closing the door.

Your foot darts out, jamming itself into the gap just before it shuts.

“Just take it,” you try to shoulder your way in a little, "it’s for you.”

“I’ve broken people’s necks for less. Move your foot.”

“Just take it,” you repeat again, “then I don’t owe you anything. We’re even.”

Gun considers this. 

He didn’t think you owed him anything for yesterday, but you obviously did. It was a quick job in exchange for a peaceful evening, not out of the goodness of his heart.

If this right now is what it takes to get you out of his hair-

“I promise I’ll leave you alone,” comes your voice.

And out of his life forever. Fine.

Gun relents, stepping back as you stagger forward and into his domain.

You hold out the boxes, avoiding his gaze, face bright red at how much of an idiot you feel and what a fuss this has turned out to be.

He finally takes them, once again fingers grazing yours. “Thanks.”

Your eyes meet his as that singular word catches you off balance. You didn’t think it existed in his vocabulary.

“Now get out.”

Ah, that’s more like it.

[kirihotto]

Forget.Him. PT.2{Jimin X Reader 18+}

→ Warnings: Sexual asst. topics suggested (Not aimed at Jimin),

→ Rating: 18+ Minors are prohibited from engaging and reading this content. It contains explicit content.

→ Genre: Mending relationship

→ Summary: You and Jimin just broke up. And by no means was it mutual. Honestly the reason why you dumped him was stupid. You were self conscious. Scared you weren't good enough for him compared to the many fans he has. The feelings are there. But you try to ignore them and Jimin's many texts and calls. But something get in the way of your plan.

→ Word Count: 3 010

Disclaimer: All members are face and name claims for the story. This is entirely a work of fiction and by no means is meant to be a projection, judgment or representation of real-life people. All works are purely for entertainment purposes.

Published: 03/28 / 24

Inspiration: (Strangers Kenya Grace) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mgd5Bv7vefY

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“L-let me go.” I demanded. He smirked at me with not a word but tightened his grip. My eyes started burning once again filled with small fresh tears. Digging my nails into his hand I barely freed myself just as I was about to B line it to the door. Chang in close range. Someone stopped me.

“We are leaving.”

Everyone froze. I hadn't realized who it was at first. The person's arm that had been wrapped around me. Wearing a biker helmet with dark tinted lens a black leather jacket. Although I couldn't see through the helmet. I could tell by the voice and scent. Roses. It was Jimin. He had left the helmet on for his identity I'm sure.

“Ohh are you the EX boyfriend?” Chang mocked. Jimin gripped my shoulder after his comment. A wave of guilt rushed through me. Regretting every action I had made to lead me here. I looked up at Jimin, he let his arm off of me. Instead he grabbed my wrist and tugged me out the door. Chang quickly followed, shooting random insults at me I didn't hear past my thoughts.

The cold rain instantly stuck to my sweater. Jimin had led me quickly behind the diner into the staff parking near the garbage bins. Not much to my surprise there were bags of garbage, but among them not far away was a motorcycle. Jimin grabbed my attention away from the bike, removing his helmet. Saying not a word but brushing the slight runny makeup from my face. His hands were even cooler than the rain as they met my flushed cheeks. While his sharp eyes were tired and filled with concern. Locked on mine. We both stood in the cold rain as it poured down on us. He leaned closer and tucked a stray wet hair behind my ear. Our gaze not shifting. Until suddenly Jimin placed the helmet over my head.

“We’re gonna get wet. But this is the best I've got right now.” Jimin spoke as he grabbed another helmet from the bike's storage. Swinging his leg over the jet black bike. Starting the engine the lights came on with a rumble. Pushing back his silky black hair he pulled the helmet on. Then turned to me with a visible sigh in his shoulders.

Jimin patted the seat behind him, encouraging me to hop on. As I was left speechless. Making my way toward the bike, I hesitantly sat with my hands in my lap. Doing everything in my power not to sob like a baby again. Jimin’s head lowered in front of my view. His hand reached behind him in search of mine. Once again he pulled my wrist toward him, Although this time I knew what he had meant.

“I don't know what you're thinking right now. But you have to hold on to me to be safe. Make sure your bag is secure.” He warned me shouting slightly over the sound of the engine. I clung onto Jimin as soon as the words left his mouth. Tucking all my belongings in my purse I swung it flesh to my body and under my soaked sweater. As soon as we started to move I clung onto him even tighter.

Feeling his warmth against the fast cold chill from damp clothes. The warmth I had been longing for. I sobbed spouting my feelings out knowing he couldn't hear a word over the engine and traffic. Resting my head against his back slightly. I felt my warm tears running down my face as my hands shook from the grip on his waist. Either from the cold or my body exhausted from the constant tears. I'm sure he could feel me shaking, though his focus remained dead ahead.

We reached a red light and came to a stop. The wet pavement casting hues from the city lights. Catching my breath for a moment I felt Jimin’s hand rest on mine. We had sat at the red light in silence as he held onto my hand. I had wanted nothing more than him to never let go. The light flashed back to green and he let my hand go. Back to driving. Although I knew we weren't far away from his place.

Like clockwork we had pulled into his parking space. We both got off the bike without a word. I took off my helmet and gave it back to Jimin. He took it in one hand and instantly went for his door. Not as much as looking at me. The rain had eased up just as I made my way inside right behind him. I felt like a kid who had run away from home. Just to be dragged back by their mother.

The two helmets sat halfheartedly on the black mat in front of the door. Once I got inside Jimin slammed the door, pinning me to the backside of it. I didn't dare do anything but look at the floor. My soaked vans. We stood in silence for a moment. The sound of the rain splattering off the doorstep. The glow of the soft yellow outdoor light, the only one on. I could feel my body temperature dropping from the wet attire. Jimin had backed away from me with another sigh.

“So. Why aren't you answering my calls? Ignoring me for that idiot?” He spat out in disgust. My gaze flew up to meet him in an instant.

“W-we broke.. Up.. so I just forgot to reply..” I sputtered out. A flood of fiery anxiety filled my words. So much so I could hear it. Although I knew this would be it. My last chance to push him away. I had to do everything in my power to do so. After accepting my fate I looked down to the floor again. Clutching onto the strap from my purse. My hands shaking. We stood in silence once again. The faint sound of water dripping off of us. Jimin had his arms crossed in front of me. I could feel his intense gaze on me.

“Hm. Am I really that forgetful? You can't seem to keep my name out of that mouth.” Jimin stated with a hint of rage. He must've known what I was up to. My gaze flew up to meet him in an instant yet again as I gasped for air.

“I-!" The fire traveled up to my throat scorning my tongue. I searched Jimin’s eyes for an answer. Even though I was the one who held them all.

“Well, Care to explain?" Jimin asked again. He took a step closer to me, his dark hair dripping in his face. Like a shadow looming over me. I'm sure he knew. Somewhere in his mind he knew I wasn't really over him. Not at all. I was doing everything in my power not to throw myself into his arms. Shaking like a leaf under his intense gaze, I don't dare look at. Jimin lowered his head, his hand sliding back his wet hair. “Don't move.”

He warned me. Jimin wandered down the hall for a brief moment. In that moment I could catch my breath and say what needed to be said. Not what I had desired. I heard something hit the floor and the slam of a door. Returning without his soaked leather jacket and had on a white chanel T shirt. It had been soaked through enough to see his tattoos. As well as he had a towel hung around his neck, another in hand. He came over to me again, stretching the towel in out both hands.

“Here, lean forward your shaking.” He stated ever so softly after nearly growling at me. I did as he said and leaned forward a little. My face was met with his neckline and a wave of his comforting scent washed over me. His movements were gentle and slow. A towel placed around my neck as well. Jimin was about to pull back from me again, I stopped him from meeting my tearful gaze once again. Embracing him. Upon doing so I felt him flinch slightly. I buried my face into his tense shoulder. I felt a warm hand around my back, the feeling I'd been longing for. I felt Jimin sigh.

“Seriously. Tell me. what's going on..”

After his words I flinched. Right I was supposed to be getting away from him.. But.. I grabbed onto his shirt tighter.

“I-.. I’m not good enough.” I mumbled into his shoulder.

“Hm? What did you say?” Jimin spoke softly as we held each other. I paused for a moment. I pushed him off of me and held onto his shoulders looking him dead in the eyes.

“I’M NOT GOOD ENOUGH! You have hundreds of thousands hell i'd say MILLIONS of fans! People dying to meet you! Even famous people dying to meet you! I’m not worthy of the title of YOUR lover! Are you kidding me?!.. What would your fans think of- of me? Look at me. I'm standing here crying on your patio after I dumped you. On top of that I dumped one of the most popular men in the world. I’m a low class nobody with no beauty or talent..” I shouted out all the thoughts that had been in my mind when I had dumped him. On a rainy day similar to this…

“This is why you dumped me?.. Cut me off..” Jimin spoke, his gaze starstruck as I released my hold on him. Looking for an answer. Those sweet tired eyes. He placed a hand on my cheek again. The small action filled with love. Our eyes locked on eachother again. “I don't think I've ever been this mad at someone I love.”

I flinched from his words. Eyes not meeting mine. Although his hand hasn't moved from my face.

“Why can't you see? Just how amazing you are.” Jimin smiled at me softly. He brushed the tears off my cheeks again. “I chose you. I don't want anyone else. I have fans. People who want to meet me of a ‘higher class.’ That I won't deny. I've wanted to share with the world how lucky I am to have someone like you in my life. Even more so as a lover. I had asked you before, don't you remember? I know you don't want to be seen as a sort of Idol or in the public view in this way. I haven't said a word.”

I nodded in response. This was all true. The weight of Millions of eyes on me. Was something I didn't want.

“So.. THAT’S WHY I'M SO MAD!! I HAVE NEVER BEEN MAD AT ARMY BUT I'M STARTING TO WONDER IF I SHOULD BE! If they make you worry this much. I don't want to lose the one I hold dearest because of something like that.” Jimin yelled letting out his frustrations too. Tucking my hair all out of my face. He used the towel around my neck to dry it. “But listen. ARMY means the world to me, yes. ARMY is my family. But you. You're my love. Where I belong. There is enough room for everyone in my heart. Especially if that someone is you.”

“I.. I’m sorry..” I replied, dropping my head down again. Only for it to be lifted back up by Jimin's soft hand.

“Don't be sorry. Just talk to me. I didn't know this was bugging you this much. You're more than enough. In my eyes you're perfect. Even though I know you haven't seen it yet. Don't ever talk down about yourself. We are all only human. Emotions in just one price we pay either for good or bad.” Jimin reassured me. I grabbed the towel from his hands and threw it to the floor. Catching him by surprise. I nearly jumped into his embrace. “Woah- ok. I guess this means you're done ignoring me? Then? Or are you still dumping me cause I was late to realize all this-”

“NO! I’m not letting you go anywhere! I love-!” Just as I was about to proclaim my love once again, He had made a move of his own. Kissing me lovingly. Slowly. He held my body close to his, as his arms wrapped around my back. Our clothes, still wet. Clinging to each other. I could feel his muscles through his cold wet clothes. Our body warmth. Slowly he leaned his face back from me. Our bodies entangled.

“I love you. Now please stop shedding those tears. I’m here for you.” Jimin's tired eyes had seemingly been filled with content. I was filled with a longing. Making up for ‘missed time’. I grabbed the collar of his shirt and kissed him again. He had almost melted into me. “You have no idea how close I was to kissing you even as you were crying.”

“W-wait-” I realized what a beast I had just unleashed. After he spoke he kissed me again. Repeatedly over and over. Tightening his grip on my waist. Between kisses he mumbled something under his breath. “Open your mouth.”

I did as he said slowly and almost awkwardly. Jimin had never been this.. Demanding before. As soon as he had an opening he slid his tongue between my quivering lips with a moan. Like he’s devouring me whole. Under his intense kisses I let out small whimpers of my own. My face flustered as I gave myself to him. His kiss, addictive like a drug. Sliding my hands back up his chest and over his shoulders I felt him flinch a little. Adding fuel to the fire I had started. Jimin broke off the kiss. Leaving us both panting.

“Ahh..Mmm you remember our safe word hm?” Jimin questioned suddenly through breaths. We had set boundaries like this the first time we had sex together. But we haven't brought it up or used the word ever. It was shocking to say the least. But I knew we weren't going anywhere. I nodded, not meeting his gaze again. “Don't look away from me..”

Feeling his chest rise and fall rhythmically so. He unzipped my sweater slowly as he inched his face closer to mine once again. The single sound of the zipper rang through the hall as it quickly hit the floor. As he kissed me again, sliding his tongue between my lips with a smirk I could only feel. Jimin’s cold hands wandered my back, letting a small whimper escape me between harsh kisses. The strap of my purse I had clung onto desperately in prior moments, slid off my shoulder and landed on the floor. I had missed him so much his touch was driving me insane. I had opened my eyes briefly to be met with a lustful gaze devouring me.

“Hmm?” Jimin growled a little leaving a peck on my lips. “Someone’s getting confident. Daring to take a glance at me like this.”

“I.. uhm.. Yeah..” All words escaped me as my lungs were clawing for air. We hadn't moved from the entrance since we had walked in. Now a small growing collection of items on the floor under our feet. Jimin and I stood embracing each other as our eyes were locked. His eyes, easy to read, holding the sharp glint of lust. He suddenly slid his cold hand under the back of my crop top. I moaned out from shock. “Ah-uh!”

“H-hey. Your hands are freezing.”

“I think you mean we're freezing. We're both standing here in the hallway dripping wet.” Jimin retorted, sliding his hands about under the back of my top. Tracing my shoulders. Suddenly he leaned down resting his head on my shoulder. His wet hair cold against my flushed skin. My hands resting on Jimin’s tense shoulders. “Hm.. I love you so much. Don't do that again.”

He growled, although it was more like sulking. He licked a trail up my neck, pulling the collar on my top down a little. Revealing more of my neck. Leaving feathered kisses around my neck as I felt myself turning flustered. Seriously this was too much. My head was already spinning from the whiplash of emotions from tonight. I felt his hand tense trying to bring me even closer to him. Suddenly he bit down on my neck.

“Ahh~!” A moan ripped through my throat by my own surprise. By reflex I went to cover my mouth. Jimin had caught my arm. His warm breath fanning over the mark I'm sure he had left.

“No... Don't cover your mouth. I want to hear you.” He mumbled into my neck leaving more soft kisses. I felt his lips curl into a smirk as he pulled away. We were untangled for only a moment. Jimin ripped his shirt off and slammed it onto the floor. His hair is still wet, dripping a little as he shakes it out of his eyes. His muscles and figure damp from the rain. As my eyes traveled I was met with a not so shocking discovery. A visible bulge in his tight black jeans. “See something you like?”

Jimin teased as he chuckled a little and shook his head. My face had turned bright red the moment I had made eye contact. Stepping back toward me, he took my hand and placed it on his bare chest. I felt his heartbeat. Beating nearly as fast as mine.

“Only you do this to me” Jimin gestured to his whole body. Flustered again by his sly words I looked away. Although I took my chance and slid my hand down his form, feeling his abs quiver under my touch. There was something satisfying about the feeling.

“Only you.. make me think about.. things like this.” I said my gaze meeting Jimin’s abdomen. Before I knew what was coming he was devouring me again. The thought in the back of my mind why he had asked me about the safe word. Like he had known what I was thinking he placed a hand on my hip the other on my face. Pulling our hips together. The feeling makes me flinch, my knees weak. He had taken me and switched places with me. His back now in front of the door, encouraging me to walk down the hall. Although I'm not entirely sure how easy it'd be with him still devouring me.

“Mm- where are- we- mm going?” I questioned between kisses. Jimin paused for a moment

“A place you're quite familiar with.” He smirked. I tapped him on the chest with my fist for a brief moment. Before he took said hand we arrived in his room. His scent was overwhelmingly strong, my body flustered at the thought. I sat down on the bed, my knees about to collapse beneath me. My body begging for me to call out to him. As he stood above me. Jimin undid his belt although did not toss it to the floor rather, he climbed on top of me. Smothering me in more kisses. As he tugged at the hem of my shirt he looked up at me as almost a confirmation. The wet shirt then whisked off my form as Jimin was now fully on top of me. Leaving one soft kiss on my cheek as he pulled away. ‘Now then, let’s see those hands.”

“W-wait! You're not serious.” I nearly sat up in shock. Although he pushed me back down, sliding his hand down my torso. The dots finally connecting in my head. Not that I had not trusted him. Rather I wanted nothing more than to feel every inch of him. It wasn't helping how he was looming over me wet and shirtless. He seemed to have other plans, tying my hands together with his black leather belt. “J-jimin hang on. Please I-”

“These feelings aren't going anywhere. And now. Neither are you.” 

[hwsfemmephenomenon]

Check out our preemptive FAQ here!

Without further ado, here are the answers to your questions from the interest check:

☆ I would like to apply to be an art mod, but my Hetalia fanwork is a bit old and not up to date with my current skill level? Can I submit some non-Hetalia fanwork for my mod portfolio?

If this is the case, submit any work you're proud of, regardless of its relevancy to Hetalia!

☆ What does "spread" and "page" mean?

☆ Where do I sign up?

Contributor applications will be opening July 1, 2024. We’ll make a post with the link to the contributor apps at 3PM EST on July 1, but you’ll also be able to find a link to the apps on our Carrd when the time comes! Right now the button on our Carrd is a placeholder, but if you press it now, you’ll be rewarded with a cool and funky video :]

☆ Will page size/formatting guidelines be given?

Yes! At the moment, there are placeholder measurements in our info-doc. Proper formatting will be finalized before contributor apps open once we’ve onboarded our formatting mods and discussed what sizes are best!

☆ Can my contribution include multiple HetaGirls?

YES!!! Let them interact!

☆ Are ships allowed?

Yes! As of right now, our only restrictions are no Belarus x Ukraine and no NSFW content.

☆ How many contributors will you accept to the zine?

At the moment, we’re a bit unsure! This is both Soph and Arson’s first time hosting a zine so we don’t want to bite off more than we can chew. As of right now, we may accept up to ~30 visual contributors and ~10 writing contributors, but those are estimates. We’ve gotten a ton of support for this zine, but we need to find our footing first! Ultimately, the final number of contributors will depend on what the mod team feels they can handle and how many applications we get!

☆ Why are you putting limits onto how Nyotalia characters can appear in the zine?

This zine originally came to be with the canon women in mind. We want the zine to focus on Ancient Egypt, Belarus, Belgium, Czechia, Hungary, Liechtenstein, Monaco, Seychelles, Taiwan, Ukraine, Vietnam, and Wy, as much of their canon material treats them as supporting roles to the male characters. We additionally would love to see submissions for Ancient Greece, Kenya, and Zimbabwe!

The Nyotalia characters are understandably very popular because they're a different take on the main cast. While we also love Nyotalia, we worry that very popular characters, like the main 8, will overshadow the characters we created this zine for in the first place. Nyotalia women are allowed in supporting roles because it would understandably be a little difficult for the writers if they were only limited to a specific set of 12-17 characters.

Some examples of work featuring Nyotalia characters would be:

A frying pangle fic where Hungary interacts with Nyo!Austria and/or Nyo!Prussia

A group illustration centering Vietnam’s interactions with Nyotalia ASEAN

An AmeBela illustration where Belarus interacts with Nyo!America

Some exceptions may be allowed on a case by case basis.

TLDR: You can draw Nyotalia women so long as they play a supporting role to one of the canon ladies.

☆ How many OCs will be allowed?

It depends on how many applications we receive! So long as they're a nation & aren't already canon to Hetalia, it's fair game. We want to see ladies from all over the globe!

☆ Why do you want more than one pitch?

We don't want to force people to make work they're disinterested in, but we also don't want there to be a disproportionate amount of material for one girl over another. As of right now, Hungary is in the most demand with 69.2% of responses, but Wy (34.6%) and Monaco (42.3%) have the least amount! We want to encourage more work for the more neglected ladies!

☆ Can I make more than one submission?

As of right now, yes! So long as everyone isn't doing more than one piece and if the contributor thinks they can handle two pieces during the time frame, we wanna see those HetaGirls!

More on this to come when acceptances roll out and we start working on pitches...

Got more questions? Submit them to our inbox!

Thank you all for the love and support you've shown the zine thus far!

[tomorrowusa]

East Slavic (as opposed to West or South Slavic) culture had its roots in what is now Ukraine.

In the 11th century Kyiv was thriving at a time when what is now the Kremlin was just a place where traders on their way to Novgorod would stop to pee.

Russia even sort of stole the name of the country from Kyivan Rus'.

How Moscow hijacked the history of Ukraine-Rus’

At best, Russia is a former colonial power seeking to re-impose itself on its lost colonies.

Imagine the outrage if Britain tried to take back Nigeria or Kenya. It is hypocritical to be anti-colonialism in Africa and not be anti-colonialism in Europe.

Russia needs to go home and stay home. The only thing to negotiate is how many days it would take Russia to leave Ukraine.