#i owe a debt of gratitude to a certain person

[cosmodynes]

「夜の静けさに星々」 in that quiet darkness, stars japanese ver. cover!!!

わぁ、すごい！！we did it!!!! with help from Gshock99 and Kさん there is now a wonderful japanese script for this fanbook.

i made a few changes from the previously released version such as updated artwork in a few panels, and changing dialogue to better reflect JP script. the ENG pdf has been updated to reflect this.

you can pick it up (for free!!!) on BOOTH until 12/18 but please be 18+ ok? after that the ENG version will be on ko-fi.

[thefrogdalorian]

Candles

Din Djarin x GN!Reader

Summary: Even though Din insists he doesn't want you to make a fuss over his birthday, you cannot resist spoiling him in your own special way. Although your perfect day does not go entirely to plan, you are determined to make the best of it...

Word Count:  3.8k ✯ Rating: Teen ✯ Content Warnings: A few suggestive lines, mentions of grief/mourning parents. Other than that, pure fluff! ✯ Author's Note: Thank you @decembermidnight for betaing this one, I always appreciate your help! Since we don't know Din's canonical birthday I thought May the Fourth was a good excuse to celebrate... but you get it on Revenge of the Fifth instead! ☺︎ I saw a post from someone (can't remember who) that said Din has holes in his socks, it's a hc I hold dear and was fun to explore in this fic!

✯ My Masterlist ✯ Read on AO3 ✯

Din Djarin does not delight in being doted upon. You know this with as much certainty as two suns rise over Tatooine. 

Yet, you cannot resist your urge to spoil him on the one day of the year that is truly his.

Din's reluctance to be spoiled is precisely why you rose before dawn, pottering around the modest galley, gathering the ingredients necessary to bake a cake. You hope that even though Din is ordinarily a light sleeper, the energy he exerted in passion the previous evening will have sufficiently tired him out so that he sleeps in, for once. 

After all, he does so much for you and the big-eared, bug-eyed baby boy you both vowed to raise as a Mandalorian warrior in the small cabin you share on Nevarro. Baking him a cake is the least you can do.

Preparing a cake to celebrate his birthday is not the only thing you have in mind. Even though Din already declared that the greatest gift of all is your love, you could not resist spending a few credits to treat him to a small gift. The thought of surprising him with it causes a knot of anxiety in your stomach, but you try to suppress those fears as you begin weighing out the ingredients.

You focus too on the beautiful sentiment Din expressed to you, how deeply he treasures your love. Such words are a far cry from the hardened, battle-weary warrior you had first encountered on Coruscant. Din reported to your boss, Carson Teva, for his latest missions from the New Republic. The first meeting in that office had left you curious, if a little intimidated, by the hulking Mandalorian who towered over you as you quietly worked at your desk.

Din extended a gloved hand to you at the end of your all-too-brief conversation. When you took it and shook it, marvelling at the softness of the leather and how his hand engulfed yours, you were sure that you had felt a spark. You wondered whether you detected a hint of longing in his lingering touch. Whether he, too, had felt a tingle across his skin as your hands touched.

Almost an entire cycle later, you had your answer.

You smile when you think back to those early days. How Din's visits became more frequent and led to longer and more personal conversations. Your chats became less concerned with threats that plagued the galaxy. Eventually, they continued outside the parameters of the depressing New Republic office building where you once worked. 

Life with Din was everything you had yearned for and more. A boring bureaucratic desk job was never your desired lot in life. Din had opened up an entire galaxy of possibilities for you. He had brought you to Nevarro and given you the life you had always wanted but never expected for yourself.

All things considered, making a special effort for his birthday is the least you can do to attempt to repay the enormous debt of gratitude you owe to Din. A debt you are certain you will never truly manage to clear but are determined to try anyway.

So, rather than spending the first moments of light of Din’s birthday cuddling with him... instead, you find yourself hunched over the kitchen counters as pale orange light streams in from across the lava flats.

You hum quietly to yourself while you mix the carefully weighed-out ingredients, careful not to wake Din. Pouring the batter into the tins is a rather precarious manoeuvre and you are careful not to waste a single drop of the mixture. 

With the cakes finally baking in the Nanowave, you turn your attention to the mountain of pots before you. Upon seeing it, you wish Din was a little more flexible on his no-droids policy. Or that Grogu was awake. 

The kid has been known to use his powers to aid his parents with domestic chores from time to time, particularly if you allow him to sneakily eat a frog from his pond without his father noticing. 

Unfortunately, there is to be no help. If you want to keep the secret cake under wraps until you present it to Din later, you must get stuck into washing up.

You make good progress, carefully scrubbing away the remnants of batter with a soapy rag. So consumed are you by your diligent cleaning of each pot and utensil that you do not hear familiar footsteps as they echo across the hard kitchen floor.

You let out a yelp of surprise into the stillness of the early morning when a familiar pair of long arms wrap around your waist and a chin rests upon your shoulder.

“Good morning, ner riduur,” Din rasps as he softly kisses the side of your neck.

His voice is rough and gravelly with sleep, even deeper than usual. You gasp as he presses himself into you. It seems that Din has sufficiently recovered from the exhausting activities which kept you awake for most of the night. Until dawn was far closer than you had intended, given how early you knew you had to be awake to bake his cake.

For a moment, it is enough to make you forget the task at hand. 

Then you remember with a jolt why you are in the kitchen at such an early hour. You spin around in Din's embrace and vocalise your disapproval. 

“Din! It's far too early. Go back to bed!” you plead, keen for him to leave immediately.

Din responds by tightening his grip on your waist and continuing to press hot, open-mouthed kisses on your neck. It takes all of your strength to push him away.

"Please, Din," you whine, staring into his eyes, “I'll join you soon.”

Din sighs and then nods slowly, “Don't be too long, I'll be lonely...”

You exhale deeply as he turns to leave, pleased that Din is none the wiser about the surprise sweet treat. 

Unfortunately, the Nanowave has other plans. The characteristic ding lets you know that the cake is ready. Before you can respond, Din is over there in a shot. For the first time, you notice that he is wearing nothing except a pair of loose-fitting cotton shorts. His toned physique bared to you, muscles straining under his scarred skin as he leans over to take the cake out of the Nanowave. 

Din spins around with the cake cradled in his hands, the tin covered in a towel to protect his hands. He raises an eyebrow at you, clearly confused at what you have been making.

“Surprise!” you halfheartedly exclaim, with a nervous chuckle, “Well, it was meant to be a surprise at least…” 

“Ner kar’ta, you shouldn’t have,” Din whispers, with no true sense of disapproval in his tone. His brown eyes are glassy as he smiles at you with such tenderness that you feel your chest tighten.

Din asked you not to make a fuss over his birthday. But you can tell he is deeply touched by the gesture. The emotion on his face is almost enough to distract you from the fact that your riduur is barely clothed, practically glowing in the soft golden light which brings the promise of a new day. 

Almost.

All frustration and disappointment vanished at the sight of him before you. Din is always stunning, but in dawn's soft, golden light, you are convinced he is the most breathtaking sight in the entire galaxy.

You take the cake from his hands and gently set it on the kitchen counter to cool. Although Din has seen the cake, he has no idea of the decoration you intend to adorn it with. Later. You can finish the cake later.

For now, those honey-flecked brown eyes and the expanse of golden skin on display are far too irresistible. You pad across the kitchen and wrap your arms around Din’s neck, pressing your lips against his. It is a show of intent. You groan in delight when he cups your cheeks with his large hands and deepens the kiss, tenderly stroking your cheeks with his thumbs. 

Icing the cake can wait. For now, there is something far more mouthwatering to occupy your time...

✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯

Fortunately, you and Din slipped some clothes on before you drifted off after exhausting yourselves with your early morning lovemaking. So, when Grogu uses the Force to leap onto your entwined forms a few hours later after the golden light has turned to something paler and more indicative of mid-morning, he is saved from a scandalous sight. 

“Good morning, ad’ika,” Din coos, grinning widely in an expression which makes his eyes light up despite the sleepiness there.

Grogu chirps in response. His familiar baby babble is still only way he communicates with you and Din. Din nods and presses his forehead to his boy. Your heart soars as you watch the two of them interact. 

You wonder how Din understands him. You love Grogu; bonding with him was effortless. But their bond is something special, something which goes beyond words, a bond which you feel truly privileged to witness. Grogu saved Din in so many ways and made him into the man who is so easy for you to love today. 

“Why don’t you two get up and make something to eat?” you ask, yawning and stretching as you come around after the rude awakening.

“No special birthday breakfast for me?” Din asks, feigning incredulity.

“I thought you didn't want me to make a fuss?” you giggle, then add with a hint of seriousness, “I would never deprive you of a lazy morning of making flatcakes with your son.”

Din’s eyes flash with sentimentality and he leans over to kiss you again. Then, he rises from the bunk, chatting away to Grogu as he goes. You smile in their wake, so proud of your little Clan. 

You had an ulterior motive for suggesting Din and Grogu prepare something to eat, unrelated to your reluctance to find yourself in the kitchen again given the considerable time you already spent there this morning. While Din and Grogu go to make breakfast, it gives you the perfect opportunity to finish wrapping Din’s present.

Even though he said there was nothing you could buy for him, you still wanted to treat Din to something that would truly be his own. Much of his disposable income and free time is spent making your and Grogu's lives easier. Although you know acts of service are his love language, the thought that he would not have any gifts to open for his birthday is unacceptable to you. 

Mercifully, you had settled upon a present with surprising ease. You knew that Din needed nothing more than he already had to be satisfied, so the prospect of finding something small yet meaningful had seemed slightly daunting. 

Fortunately, the weekly artisan market on Nevarro came to your rescue. 

Din is meticulous in polishing and maintaining every part of his armour, especially the parts visible to the admiring eyes of others. Din does not neglect a single part of it. 

There is one piece of his everyday attire, however, which was noticeably shoddy compared to the rest of his beskar brilliance—his socks. 

They were threadbare and riddled with holes. A fact you had pointed out to Din numerous times, but the stubborn man still refused to have them darned. 

So, when you saw the deep red, thick socks at the weekly market on Nevarro, you knew they would be perfect, to the extent that you had purchased two pairs. 

You are sure that Din will appreciate them and not take umbrage with the gesture, that he will realise you are doing it for his comfort. Still, your hands tremble as you wrap the socks up in brightly coloured paper. You hope that the socks are as well-received as you have imagined they will be.

When Din calls to let you know that breakfast is ready, you stash the wrapped socks beneath the covers on your bunk and eagerly make your way to join them. 

Although you try to be present and enjoy the simple domesticity of breakfast with them, your mind is preoccupied with worries about whether the gift will be appreciated. The worry does not dissipate, remaining a leaden weight in your gut.

After finishing the flatcakes, you insist on cleaning up since it’s Din’s birthday. Even though you have done far more washing up than you intended, having some alone time while Din takes Grogu outside to his favourite pond gives you time to think.

You had planned to give Din the socks after you returned from a planned walk across the lava flats. But when Din and Grogu return to the cabin and are eager to leave for the walk, you can wait no longer. You want to enjoy this time with them, rather than being preoccupied with worries over how your gift will be received.

Din and Grogu hover by the entryway, clearly buzzing with anticipation for the walk. You are relieved that Din had not yet placed his helmet on, cradling it under his arm. The days when he wore it constantly feel so long ago; like they are from another age. Over the time you have known him, you have seen far more of his brown eyes than that dark T-visor. Yet, he still wears it whenever you leave the cabin. 

“Just need to use the ‘fresher,” you insist, excusing yourself.

“Alright,” Din nods. 

Instead of heading to the ‘fresher however, you scoop up the presents from underneath the covers on your bunk, taking deep breaths to compose yourself as you head back towards them. 

Din looks over at you curiously, shaking his head as he attempts to repress a smile when he sees the gift. You breathe a sigh of relief, grateful that he appears to be excited by the prospect of a present. 

“I know you said no gifts, but these are practical, I promise,” you vow.

“You didn’t have to do this,” Din says sternly, his eyes darkened like they do when he scolds Grogu before his entire expression softens and you feel instant relief. He adds affectionately, “But thank you, ner kar'ta. You are too good to me.”

“You deserve it,” you smile, leaning in to kiss Din on his stubbled cheek. 

Din nods and then tears into the brightly coloured paper. You wait with bated breath, anxious to see his response. For a terrible moment, he does not move. Then, your heart aches as his face drops. Din scowls at them, clearly unimpressed.

You open your mouth to apologise before Din plasters a grin across his face, a smile that does not quite reach his eyes and addresses you.

“Thank you, ner riduur,” Din smiles weakly, “Let me go and put them on right away.”

“Okay, Din,” you reply, your tone unsure.

Din hands Grogu to you and disappears off into your quarters. Grogu tilts his head to one side as though he is appraising the situation.

When Din is not quick to return, your concern is immediate. He had been itching to get out on the walk. Now that he is taking his time to put the socks on, you are certain something is wrong. Fear and guilt settle in the pit of your stomach.

“I don’t think he liked them,” you murmur, searching Grogu’s large eyes for answers.

Grogu nods slowly. 

You take another steadying breath in preparation to assess the situation. Despite your trepidation, you head down the hallway towards your quarters. The thought of Din being unhappy for even a second on his birthday unsettles you, especially if you were the cause of such an unwelcome emotion. 

When you make it to your room, the hulking silhouette of a Mandalorian warrior, with his broad shoulders slumped over in anguish greets you. The guilt is instant. You hover in the entryway for a few moments, cradling Grogu and pondering your next move.

“Din, did I offend you with the gifts?” you finally question as you set Grogu down on the bunk. 

Din sighs and shakes his head, turning to face you. The happy expression of this morning has been replaced with one of anguish. 

“I’m sorry I ruined your birthday,” you feebly murmur.

Din’s eyes widen in horror as he stands up from the edge of the bunk, instantly closing the distance between you and reaching out to hold your upper arms in his large hands. 

“No, never,” he promises, brown eyes darkened with sincerity.

You nod, shooting him a sceptical look.

“They, uh…” Din closes his eyes and sighs, clearly struggling with something, “They just remind me of something…”

You look at him, still confused by his evasiveness. You weren’t sure what such a simple pair of deep red socks could have done to disturb him so deeply.

Din opens his eyes, “Of somewhere,” he clarifies before he shuts them again.

He pauses for a few more seconds and you stand there unmoving, barely daring to breathe.

“The colour reminds me of the robes we wore on the planet of my birth.”

You swallow the lump which has abruptly formed in your throat, nodding at him to indicate you understand. He does not have to elaborate, to go back there if he does not want to.

“Okay, Din,” you say gently, wrapping your arms around his waist and bringing his head into your chest, “I can exchange them for a different colour.”

Din shakes his head, “No, I love them. It was just…” he sucks in a deep breath, voice quivering slightly as he adds, “A surprise. I try to avoid that colour at all costs.”

You think back to why you had been drawn to the socks. Perhaps your subconscious picked up on the fact you had never seen him with anything of that colour and wanted him to try something new. 

“They feel incredibly warm, the material is so soft. Thank you, it was very thoughtful of you,” Din smiles weakly. 

You can tell that something is still troubling him, so you boldly ask, “Do you think of them on your birthday?”

Din seems taken aback by your question but nods. 

“Before I met Grogu and you, when my heart was hardened and I rarely allowed affection in, my birthday was the one day of the year I would allow my mind to wander back there,” Din admits, “To think of them, of the life we could have had. Now I realise, of course, that if I stayed on Aq Vetina, I would never have met Grogu. Or you.”

Din addresses his son now, scooping him up and cuddling him tightly, “You are the best things that ever happened to me.” 

You feel overwhelmed with emotion as you look at them. Din presses his forehead to Grogu's for a few seconds, closing his eyes and relishing the contact.

Din opens his eyes and meets your gaze, “I have to let that place go. It’s not my home anymore. Not even this cabin is home,” Din muses.

You look at him quizzically, not following his train of thought. 

“Home isn’t a place for me,” Din whispers, “It’s a feeling. It’s the way you and Grogu love me.”

You are floored by the sentiment. That this once stoic warrior has such tenderness to him still amazes you.

“Oh, Din,” you whisper, cupping his cheek as you press your forehead to his.

Your arms encircle his waist. He brings you close with one hand and you know that he is drawing comfort from embracing you and Grogu like this. When you finally lean your head back, you detect a certain tiredness in those brown eyes you love so much.

“Why don’t you get some rest, honey?” you question, “Grogu can join too. It’s been a long, emotional day already and I want you to enjoy the rest of your birthday.”

Thankfully, Din does not fight you, conceding that he needs rest. When he climbs under the covers, you drop a tender kiss on both of their foreheads and turn to leave.

Before you leave the room, soft, even breaths indicate that they have already fallen asleep. The sight of Grogu’s tiny head on Din’s chest as they nap together makes your heart swell.

✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯

The cabin is bathed in golden light once again, this time after the sun has set. The three of you sit in contented, companionable silence as you appreciate the full feeling after a good meal.

You utilised Din and Grogu’s nap to ice the cake and prepare a special dinner consisting of Tiingilar, a traditional Mandalorian dish. Despite your apprehensiveness at perfecting the recipe, Din approved of your attempt.

As you sit there, you contemplate suggesting another nap. Consuming a sizable quantity of rich food always leaves a certain tiredness. 

But there is still one important duty yet to be carried out.

While Din is somewhat distracted talking to Grogu, you quietly excuse yourself and stealthily prepare dessert.

Your fingers tremble as they did when you wrapped the presents as you light the candles. You head towards the table on shaky legs. You begin singing the traditional birthday song with accompaniment from Grogu, who tries his best to join in with various chirps. 

Din grins as he watches you. You notice with relief that the spark in his eyes has returned. When you finish the song, you place the cake before him on the table.

“Blow them out!” you encourage.

Din nods and leans forward to extinguish the candles after savouring the moment a few beats longer. 

The excited expression on Din’s face is soon made bittersweet, “I’ve never blown out my own candles before,” he admits.

“There’s a first time for everything,” you whisper, touched by the years of agony which lie behind those words.

You are grateful that shovelling the sweet dessert into your mouth gives you an excuse not to speak as you are unsure how to move on from such an admission. Din has been through so much. Yet, he is still one of the kindest, gentlest men you have ever met. You want to give him all the experiences the galaxy has to offer. To make up for all of the years of hurt. 

“Thank you for the cake, it was delicious,” Din appreciatively says after he swallows his last bite. 

“You’re welcome,” you smile, “I think Grogu enjoyed it, too.”

You nod over at your mischievous son, who has more of the bright blue icing smeared around his face and tunic than ended up in his mouth.

Din smiles as he places the plate back on the table before you. He rubs his belly contentedly and adds, “Thank you for making this my best birthday yet.”

“Of course, Din,” you shrug, “You deserve it.”

You are already planning ways to make next year even better.

Follow @thefrogdalorianfics for updates on my latest fics!

[mxtxfanatic]

Hello! I hope you're doing well.

I was wondering, does Wei Wuxian actually have a debt to the Jiang clan? From what I know, the only ones to spew that rhetoric was JC and his mother. I understand that WWX had a high level of gratitude for being taken in and understood his role, but was there an actual debt to be repaid? Or is there a societal factor that I don't get? (of course there's a level of gratitude and loyalty to be had, but was it because of a debt or because he was just grateful)

I guess, in a way. Wei Wuxian considers it a debt because, between Madam Yu’s constant sniping at his presence and both she and Jiang Fengmian pressing him with their final words to prioritize Jiang Cheng’s life, the Jiang leaders essentially charged taking him in as one. I, personally, do not think he would have sacrificed his golden core for impulsive idiot Jiang Cheng without having those words placed on his head, because the loss of a golden core is entirely too traumatic for just a show of “gratitude. So much so, in fact, that he later tries to convince himself not to dwell on the horror of that act by saying that he owed the Jiang his core, anyways, since he wouldn’t have had it had Jiang Fengmian not taken him in. So yes, he feels that sense of debt and it does play into his reactions to certain events and justifications for his actions.

With that said, though, if Wei Wuxian knew that Jiang Fengmian owed his mother a life debt, that likely would have changed his own ideas of what exactly he “owed” to the Jiang leaders.

[scribeforchrist-blog]

Who Has the Bigger Debt?

MEMORY VERSE OF THE WEEK

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+ Proverbs 4:23 Guard your heart above all else, for it is the source of life.

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VERSE OF THE DAY 

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+ Luke 7:41-42 “A certain moneylender had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii and the other fifty. 42 When they could not pay, he canceled the debt of both. Now, which of them will love him more?

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** SAY THIS BEFORE YOU READ; HERE’S SOME CHRISTIAN TRUTHS **

I AM NOT JUDGING 

MY DEBIT IS CLEARED 

I AM DEBIT FREE 

I AM BELIEVING 

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THOUGHTS:

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     People will constantly judge you on who you are and who you used to be. You can change your life around; no longer that same person, you now are this new person in Christ and you have changed your actions, but people will still see you as your sin; when I gave my life to God, a lot of people judged me for my past sins , and that placed weight over my head , they never could stop reminding me of it and condemning me.

I thought if I let people shake their finger at me and remind me of who I was, maybe they’d stop or maybe they see I have changed, and the problem is, nothing we will ever do will stop people from being cruel or saying what they like all we can do is pray and ask God to show them and to help us through it all.

   In today's story, Jesus is at a Pharisee house relaxing at a table, talking, and waiting, and suddenly a woman comes in. She anointed his feet, kissed his feet, and wash his feet with her tears and dried his feet with her hair , and as she did this, everyone was watching and saying things, and Jesus immediately told them a parable “ A certain moneylender had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii and the other fifty. 42 When they could not pay, he canceled the debt of both. Now, which of them will love him more?”

  Immediately, we all know the answer: the man carrying the biggest debit. As he goes on to tell Simon that he shouldn’t judge the lady, the lady does everything in her actions to show gratitude to Jesus she is appreciative of who he is. Still, Simon didn’t verse 46-47. You did not anoint my head with oil, but she has anointed my feet with ointment.47 Therefore I tell you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven—for she loved much. But he who is forgiven little loves little.” 

   See, a lot of times, we look at someone's sin, and we look at who they are, and we judge them based on that and not look at what they are trying to do; Simon didn’t even see what this woman was doing, Jesus forgave the woman that washes his feet and tended to him because she had a contrite heart she didn’t expect forgiveness she probably didn’t even know she was getting forgiveness, but all she was focused on was showing Jesus appreciation. 

   Jesus would look past whatever everyone else sees and says; what someone ever says about you won’t affect Jesus's opinion or thoughts about you, but we are so gain to place someone in a place of guilt and shame or to say this is a sin , or say ugly remarks to someone , but we never stop to think that we were once sinners. God doesn’t see big and small sins; he sees repentance.

  James 2:10 For whoever keeps the whole law but fails in one point has become guilty of it.

     We as believers, we must look at people the same way Christ do , that’s why the Holy Spirit tries to mold us and shape us before we start our calling because to go into ministry and have the heart Simon did, you will miss a lot of souls that are trying, just like God gave us plenty of opportunity we must always do the same. The Bible tells us not to judge, but nowadays, everyone likes to judge people according to their sins, but what we must look at is our hearts; we can’t always be ready to condemn anyone of their past or the current sin that has a hold on them.

  •Matthew 7:1 Judge not, that you be not judged.

  •Luke 6:37 Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven;

•Romans 2:1-2 Therefore, you have no excuse, O man, every one of you who judges. For in passing judgment on another, you condemn yourself because you, the judge, practice the very same things. We know that the judgment of God rightly falls on those who practice such things.

  See, Simon looked at this woman as a sinner, and he saw her as just that! He didn’t do what he should’ve done to Jesus as he was a guest in his home , the rule was then. When you have a guest in your home you must greeted them with a kiss and anointed their head with oil, but Simon did neither. He saw the woman for what she was labeled as in society, and Jesus saw her as a person who needed forgiveness; a lot of times, people don’t want to come to churches and places where they would be a judge for what they look like, we all are looking for forgiveness and love, but who are we to come in between someone coming to Jesus. Our actions sometimes can block people from coming for the love that we have in God. 

    ***Today, we learned that we can’t judge others by the way they look, nor their past and what society labels them as; the woman in the story just wanted forgiveness, but people there only saw her for who she was, and Jesus looked passed all of her sins , Jesus could of judge Simon for his actions. Still, instead, he taught him and showed him a better way; that’s all Jesus wants to do with us all; some of us see him as this big giant God that’s eager to judge, and he doesn’t want to do that, he wants to show us a better way to behave and a better way to be.

    We can all be better and do better when we allow the Holy Spirit to show us the way. Sometimes, we lack in certain areas because we see the way we do things as being correct, but it isn’t. God isn’t going to judge us about everything; he isn’t going to point and shake a finger at us; he’s going to guide us, he’s our shepherd, just like shepherds guide their sheep where to go and how not to go off a cliff with their rod that is how Christ is with us he’s always willing to guide us with his rod and staff it’s just up to us to hear him. We I also learned about judging others. We can judge all we want, point out and shame, and say this or that is a sin, but we must look at our hearts. Is our heart pure or full of bitterness and hatred today if you need guidance, go to Christ, and he will help you. ©Seer~ Prophetess Lee

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PRAYER

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Heavenly Father, thank you for today; thank you for life, health, and strength. Lord, give us more guidance, help us not to judge others, and to hear you when you speak. Lord, please show us how you want our lives to be; we ask you to help us to follow your will; Lord, help us to see people the way you see them, which is with love; help us to love the way we want to be loved. Lord, change us and give us a heart of purity. Lord, if we are doing anything you don’t like in our life, please show us! In Jesus' Name, amen. 

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REFERENCES 

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+ Matthew 7:2 For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you

 

+ James 3:1 Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.

 

+ Isaiah 66:5 Hear the word of the Lord, you who tremble at his word: “Your brothers who hate you and cast you out for my name's sake have said, ‘Let the Lord be glorified, that we may see your joy’; but it is they who shall be put to shame.

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FURTHER READINGS 

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Proverbs 1 

Acts 8 

Leviticus 9 

1 Chronicles 22

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[diabolikpersonals]

aaaaand ruki cl endings!

euphoria end:

In the church, Karl Heinz explains that this was all a test, and when Ruki asks “ok can you please stop the test now” Karl Heinz is like lmao no. show me that you can surpass me first. It might be impossible for Ruki because he’s a former human, but Karl Heinz says he approves of Ruki in a certain way, and he just needs Ruki to show that he’s capable of seeing his plan through…….or else, Karl Heinz will take Eve back.

Ruki tells Karl Heinz he owes him a debt of gratitude but he won’t be doing that. He can’t give up Yui OR turn his blade against Karl Heinz. Karl Heinz is like “awww, that’s cute, but check this out” and there’s this terrible magic sound and blood splatters across the screen and Ruki’s like “GUAAAGAGHHH” and I’m thinking “oh no did I actually get the bad end???” and Karl Heinz is like “pick up your sword, pussy” (he doesnt say that last part)

Ruki stands up, all covered in blood, and says that he probably isn’t the right person for Yui. He messed up Karl Heinz’s plans too. But he still doesn’t wanna let her go ;-; um, but he still doesn’t want to fight Karl Heinz, so Karl Heinz is like “die like a dog then” and blasts him. He tells Yui he’ll let Ruki live if she comes with him. He wrecks Ruki’s shit a third time and I imagine he is a blood stain on the floor at this point.

Yui’s about to say she’ll go with Karl Heinz, but Ruki stands up (?! what a trooper) and hugs her. He wants to stay with her to the very end ;-; He thanks her for choosing him, and Yui says there’s nothing to thank her for, she just fell in love with him, simple as that. They kiss and it tastes like Ruki’s blood.

………but again, if you’ve seen some other endings, you know where this is going, right? Kissing in the church is actually the key to leaving this place, so the whole world disappears into whiteness. They wake up in that room in Eden and all of Ruki’s injuries are gone. Karl Heinz is like lol congratulations!! Since Ruki and Yui chose each other in the face of death, they’ve proven their love is real. He’s like “Well, I really thought it would be one of my sons, but the future is full of surprises. peace!” and he disappears..,, giving me no time to strangle him

Anyway we go back to our regular lives. Kino is still a mystery. I imagine Shin acts awkward every time he sees Ruki from now on. We see a nice, familiar scene of the Mukamis being rowdy at dinnertime. Yuma suggests rukiyui should just get married already. Ruki absolutely intends to do that, so kou’s like “whoaaaaa okay this is getting steamy, let’s leave” lmao. When they’re alone, Ruki tells Yui he no longer has any doubts or hesitations about loving her. Before this, he thought he could just keep running away, but now he feels like he can stand his ground and face people like Karl Heinz, and defend the fact that he loves her.

labyrinth end:

Ruki kept Yui to himself even though he didn’t have the qualities to become Adam, and that’s basically betraying Karl Heinz. He’d rather run away with her than face this fact. Karl Heinz lets him run and he’s like “fine, run forever. you can stay here till you make a new choice.”

While they’re running, Yui wakes up in the church again. She’s right back where she started, and Reiji, Kou, Laito, and Ayato are there too. oh my god did I just get timelooped???? tell me I got timelooped

Yui basically plays the general prologue again and chooses the Orange house in hopes of meeting Ruki. He’s there, but he doesn’t remember her anymore!! we totally got timelooped!!! fuck!!!!

Back in Eden, Karl Heinz is talking to himself and he says he’ll rewind this story as many times as it takes for Ruki to figure his shit out. But we gotta do this quick, because the soul can only handle so many repetitions before it breaks down.

Ruki (memoryless) stabs Yuma in the heart and kills him, then the shock gives him his memory back and he freaks out. Yui wakes up in the church AGAIN. The church bells ring AGAIN. She STARTS OVER.

And so it repeats over and over. Sometimes they make progress, sometimes Ruki kills his brothers, sometimes Yui dies. Ruki starts having dreams about past iterations; nightmares where he stabs Yuma’s heart and cuts Kou and Azusa to pieces. His hands feel like they’ve really done it. She tells him it’s all a bad dream and hugs him, but he says “This time you’ll be killed. I don’t know how, but I can see it.” Then he’ll take his sword and kill himself too.

Yui screams no, it’s just a bad dream!! And she hopes she wakes up soon ;-;;;;;

[genshingorlsrevengeance]

Persona 3/Fire Emblem Three Houses Crossover Megapost

In celebration of Persona 3 Reload coming out and reigniting my love for S.E.E.S, and wanting to write Three Houses once again, I figured I could do both at once. If you wanna see more, feel free to request interactions/scenarios, I'd be happy to! Enjoy the shenanigans of the Blue Lions and S.E.E.S!

Word Count: 3.2k Content: Blue Lions meeting the P3 Protagonists, Sylvain talking to Aigis, Dimitri talking to Minato and Minako, Byleth and Sothis meeting Elizabeth, and Blue Lions reacting to Personas

Blue Lions meeting the P3 Protagonists ===============================

Byleth walked through the crowded hallways of Garreg Mach Monastery, accompanied by the two mysterious visitors that appeared during the bandit attack.

One was a blue haired boy, both hands in his pocket as he emotionlessly glanced around, ignoring the gaze of the students.

The one beside him was a brown haired girl with a ponytail, who in contrast seemed far more enthusiastic about meeting everyone, waving hello to some of the students.

(Minako) "Come on, you can at least smile a little! We're representing Gekkoukan after all."

Minato rolled his eyes and coldly replied.

(Minato) "Junpei is already ruining our reputation for us back at the entrance. No need for me to do anything."

Minako sighed and looked at her new teacher with a wry smile.

(Minako) "Sorry, this is probably not a good introduction, is it?"

Byleth shrugged, turning to face the both of them. His expression was not too dissimilar from Minato's.

(Byleth) "Honestly, I don't really know how to approach this better than you all. I'm a mercenary."

Minako put a finger to her chin as her brows furrowed.

(Minako) "Hm...Think we should have gotten Mitsuru-senpai to take care of the talking for us?"

(Minato) "Probably."

Minako shrugged shortly after thinking about the situation, her smile quickly coming back.

(Minako) "Well, too late for regrets now!...Actually, where are we going?"

(Byleth) "We're heading towards the...Blue Lions classroom I believe. Dimitri said he wanted to thank you two personally, I have to go to meet with some other people, but I'll check back with you all later."

After departing with Byleth, the siblings entered through a large double door and saw Dimitri surrounded by seven unfamiliar faces.

Dimitri gave them a nod of acknowledgement as the group scattered to make room.

(Dimitri) "I take it your group is getting accustomed to Garreg Mach?"

Minako smiled in response, first looking at everyone's expression and taking note of them before giving an answer. Minato meanwhile kept his stoic look and let his sister do the speaking.

(Minako) "Psh, not in the slightest! We've never seen anything like this back in our world."

An orange haired girl spoke up.

(Annette) "Another world? Wow, so the rumors weren't kidding! That'd certainly explain the weird looking clothes."

A larger dark skinned man standing next to Dimitri followed up her comment with a respectful bow.

(Dedue) "Where your group comes from is irrelevant, we all owe you a debt of gratitude for saving his highness."

Minato nodded back.

(Minato) "Of course. And thanks for giving our friends a place to stay."

(Sylvain) "Jeez, that guy's a little intense. Doesn't he remind you of a certain someone?"

Sylvain elbowed Felix, who gave an annoyed glare back.

(Felix) "Shut up already. They can hear you, you know."

(Minako) "Eh, don't worry about my baby brother here! He's usually like this."

(Mercedes) "Oh, you two are siblings? I wouldn't have guessed!"

Minato replied in an emotionless tone, though it did not carry any hint of malice in it.

(Minato) "We get that a lot."

(Ingrid) "If there's anything you guys need help with, feel free to reach out! My name's Ingrid, by the way."

Everyone took a moment to introduce themselves.

(Ashe) "I really look forward to getting to you know you all!"

Minako gave him a warm smile back.

(Minako) "Me too! And though he may not look like it, this one is too!"

(Minato) "Hm."

The siblings departed the Blue Lions to find their own group, leaving them to converse amongst themselves.

(Dimitri) "They appear to be...a unique bunch."

(Annette) "Minako seems really nice! Though, I couldn't really get a read on her brother."

(Ingrid) "It probably won't take long for Sylvain to piss him off."

(Sylvain) "Hey, why are you making it sound like he will get angry at me? We could be best buds!"

(Felix) "Is that right? Well, I'm not holding my breath."

(Mercedes) "This is going to be a fun year with them around, that's for sure!"

(Ashe) "Probably super chaotic too. I wonder what the rest of their group is like."

(Dedue) "If they are anything like us, Ashe, I'm sure it won't take them long to adjust."

=============================== Sylvain talking to Aigis ===============================

Aigis appeared to be standing still near the greenhouse, quietly examining the plants.

She had been that way for nearly an hour before she was approached by Sylvain.

(Sylvain) "Hey there, Aigis! Whatcha doin' here?"

Her head stiffly turned to face Sylvain and gave a single nod, her face remaining unchanged.

(Aigis) "I am observing the plants in your world. They appear to be very similar to our own, but differ in properties and how they are utilized."

Sylvain tilted his head curiously, turning to look at the plants with a look of genuine curiousity.

(Sylvain) "Huh. I never really thought about that kind of thing before, but it must be crazy for you to see plants be made into healing potions."

(Aigis) "Negative. Plants were used by humans for medicinal purposes, ranging back thousands of years. But the potency of your flora appear to be far stronger than the ones found on Earth."

Her answer confused him, making him shake his head and remember why he was there to begin with.

(Sylvain) "...Okaaay, kinda lost me there. But, if you're wanting to see other things that are different, how about going out into town with me?"

(Aigis) "Are you asking me out on what they refer to as a 'date'?"

Sylvain chuckled at her question.

(Sylvain) "If you wanna call it that, then sure-!"

(Aigis) "The answer is no."

(Sylvain) "Wha- why not?!"

(Aigis) "Minato-san has specifically warned me to not go on any dates. Especially with you, Sylvain."

Though her tone was completely static, he could gleam a bit of malice in the response.

(Sylvain) "Okay listen, whatever he told you about me is not true!"

(Aigis) "He has not told me anything."

(Sylvain) "Then who did?"

Aigis paused for a moment before resuming.

(Aigis) "...The list is as follows: Ingrid, Felix, Dimitri, Dorothea, Yukari, Junpei, Mitsuru, Minako, Byleth-"

(Sylvain) "Alright alright, I got the message across! But surely you must be curious about going outside the Monastery for at least a few hours? I can be a tour guide at least!"

Aigis paused once again.

(Aigis) "...I comprehend. If this is not a date, then I do not have a problem with this request."

(Sylvain) "G-Great! See you in half an hour?"

(Aigis) "Affirmative. I also have an order I am obliged to follow, given by Minato and Minako in regards to you."

Sylvain wasn't even sure he wanted to know what it was.

(Sylvain) "And that is...?"

(Aigis) "I am authorized to use force if pressured onto a date."

(Sylvain) "F-Force?! Now hang on just a-"

(Aigis) "Commencing preparations. Please meet me by the entrance in half an hour."

Aigis walked away, leaving Sylvain standing by himself with an open jaw.

(Sylvain) "What the heck is with her?!"

C Support Reached!

=============================== Dimitri talking to Minato and Minako ===============================

Dimitri walked into the dormitories where the S.E.E.S members had taken up residence during their stay at Garreg Mach.

At the moment it was just Minato sitting on the couch with a strange device on his ears, and Minako reading a book from the library.

Minako looked up from her book and waved to Dimitri.

(Minako) "Hey, Dimitri! Surprised to see you here!"

Minato noticed Minako moving and grabbed the right side of his device and lifted it off. Dimitri could hear words coming out of it.

"Hey, hey, hey" Fueling the fire with the burning desire-

(Minato) "Hey."

(Dimitri) "Are those words coming out of that earmuff?"

(Minako) "Oh, that's right! I forget you guys don't know what headphones are!"

Minato raised an eyebrow at his sister.

(Minato) "We've been in a medieval world this entire time, and you forgot that it doesn't have technology like ours?"

(Minako) "Hush you! Anyways, that's a small...thingy that can play music, in short. Now whatcha need?"

Dimitri cleared his throat after focusing away from Minato's headphones.

(Dimitri) "Truthfully, I was curious to see what you all got up to in your free time. You seemed to have adjusted to the school life well, but I was wanting to make sure you could do so in your free time."

Minato shrugged nonchalantly.

(Minato) "We're managing, surprisingly."

(Minako) "Yeah, who knew that hanging out with a buncha people our age who can cast fireballs would seem so normal!"

(Dimitri) "That's another thing I wanted to ask. Your group seems well versed in combat already. What exactly is your home like?"

(Minako) "Weeeeeelll-"

Her voice trailed off, waving one hand dismissively.

(Minako) "Just self defense is all! We have to deal with vagrants in our world too."

(Dimitri) "Is...that right?"

(Minato) "You're a worse liar than Ashe-"

Minako immediately pointed at her little brother.

(Minako) "YOU! YOUR FACE, SHUT!"

That made Dimitri laugh.

(Dimitri) "I apologize, I did not mean to pry. I am just impressed more than anything."

(Minato) "Relatedly...Today's the first full moon here at Garreg Mach, right?"

Dimitri noticed how both their expressions suddenly became serious.

(Dimitri) "Y-Yes it is. It also means it's nearly been a month since you all first came here. Is the moon significant in your world?"

Minato sat up from the couch and put his hands into his pocket.

(Minato) "Very."

Minato began walking away from the group before giving Dimitri one last look.

(Minato) "You might get your answer sooner than you think."

As he exited the dorm, he turned to Minako.

(Dimitri) "Did I say something wrong?"

(Minako) "Oh, don't mind him. He's usually that much of a jackass...But he's not wrong...Say, how about we spar near midnight, Dimitri?"

=============================== Byleth and Sothis meeting Elizabeth ===============================

Byleth woke up in his bed, rubbing his eye before noticing Sothis was trying to shake him awake.

(Sothis) "Finally! Do you know how long I've been trying to- Know what? Forget it, that doesn't matter! There's something here!"

(Byleth) "Something here? What are you-"

He paused when he noticed there was a blue glow coming from outside the door to his room.

Byleth immediately grabbed his sword and nearly kicked down the door with Sothis floating behind him.

Only to see another door in front of him, glowing blue and with an energy he could not place the feeling of.

(Byleth) "That wasn't here yesterday."

(Sothis) "Your keen senses of observation never ceases to amaze me, child."

Byleth made no comment as he slowly circled around the door. There was nothing it led to, even on the other side.

Byleth saw a group of students walk past the door, giving him an odd look but saying hello, not even acknowledging the door's presence.

(Sothis) "The door feels...strangely familiar."

(Byleth) "Should we go inside it?"

The two exchanged a glance before slowly opening the door and entering it.

...

Inside sat Sothis's throne, now bathed in a ghastly blue aura, a table sitting in front of it, but most notable of all was the fact a woman was standing inside, alone.

(Sothis) "M-My throne!"

The woman turned towards her visitors and politely bowed.

She had blonde hair and a strange blue attire, adorned with a small hat that rested on her head.

While everything about her seemed to be human, the way she portrayed herself and everything surrounding her was anything but.

(???) "Welcome, to the Velvet Room."

(Sothis) "Velvet Room? This is MY room!"

(???) "...Ah, so it is! I was wondering why it was so empty. I hope you do not mind that I have taken up residence here, you have my sincerest apologies!"

Byleth reached for his sword, but suddenly realized it was gone. Deciding to question instead of fight, he simply asked:

(Byleth) "Who are you?"

The woman smiled at the question and bowed once again.

(Elizabeth) "My name is Elizabeth, it is a pleasure to be your acquaintance! I am the attendee to the two under your care."

It took a moment for them to realize who she was talking about.

(Byleth) "Minato and Minako?"

Suddenly, things made sense. Everytime Sothis appeared to talk to him, they appeared to be aware of her, despite the fact no one else in their group could.

They already weren't normal, but this further solidified that something else was at play here.

(Elizabeth) "The Arisato siblings, yes! Well, truth be told my brother is supposed to be here, but alas he is nowhere to be found. But I am more than enough to serve their purpose."

(Sothis) "What do you provide that requires taking over my home?"

(Byleth) "That's in my head, no less..."

(Elizabeth) "I provide them with the fusing of Personas for their journey. Nothing more, and nothing less! For we can only assist, never directly intervene.

Elizabeth put a finger to her chin, thinking about what to say next.

(Elizabeth) "As for the occupation, it seemed this was the only place I could manifest myself that could easily reach you as well. Your fates are all intertwined, after all!"

Sothis sighed and crossed her arms, floating over to Elizabeth.

(Sothis) "You couldn't ask?"

(Elizabeth) "I tried, multiple times. But I believe you were asleep everytime I attempted, and eventually found this empty room, save the throne."

(Byleth) "...That one is more of your fault than anything-"

(Sothis) "Be quiet."

(Elizabeth) "I look forward to getting to know you two as well."

(Byleth) "Well, I'm Byleth, and that's Sothis. I guess we'll get to know you too."

Suddenly, the door opened behind them.

(Minako) "I guess it makes sense for the Velvet room to- OHMYGOD!-"

Minako leapt back in fear while Minato only flinched.

(Minako) "WHAT THE HECK ARE YOU DOING HERE?!"

(Minato) "It's that floating green thing again too-"

(Sothis) "EXCUSE ME?!"

=============================== Blue Lions Reacting to Personas ===============================

(Dimitri) "EVERYONE, TO THE CATHEDRAL!"

The Blue Lions and Byleth dashed across the bridge leading to Garreg Mach's cathedral, bathed in the ominous light of a full moon.

The previously calm black skies had darkened to a sickly pale green glow while being chased by monsters.

While they could kill a few of them, there were too many of them to deal with. And under the moonlight they appeared to be getting stronger.

Ashe, Mercedes, and Annette attempted to hold back the monsters with spells and arrows, but if they stood their ground they would have been overwhelmed.

Instead, Dimitri, Dedue, Felix, and Byleth held the ones in pursuit off while Ingrid and Sylvain tried to find a way inside.

(Sylvain) "Damn it, it's stuck!"

(Ingrid) "Then we gotta kick the door down!-"

Before she could attempt to do so, the ground they were standing on quickly darkened, making everyone look up.

A massive blob-like monster slithered down the walls, with too many arms to count protruding out of it, all wielding swords.

(Annette) "B-BEHIND US!"

Everyone turned around and gained distance as the monster crashed onto the concrete, sending bricks flying into the air at violent speeds.

The Blue Lions had been pincered by these creatures.

(Mercedes) "I-Is this the work of the same people that attacked the burial site?!"

(Dedue) "I am unsure if even they are capable of doing this! The people I had been speaking to suddenly turned into coffins!"

(Byleth) "Here's the plan, when I count to three, we break through these monsters coming from the bridge and make a run-"

Before he could finish his sentence, they all heard someone speaking to them.

(Fuuka's Voice) "Thank goodness, you all are still okay! Can you hear me?!"

(Felix) "Is that...Fuuka?!"

(Ashe) "Is she in danger too?! How can we hear-"

(Fuuka's Voice) "Everyone needs to get back to a safe distance from the Shadows on the bridge, right now!"

Without warning, the shadows suddenly burst into a black mist from what appeared to be an ice spell.

Mitsuru, Akihiko, Ken, Shinji, Aigis, and even their dog, Koromaru, were standing from the entrance, all wielding weapons.

(Mitsuru) "Everyone, escape to us, we'll keep you safe!"

Before anyone could react, Minato, Minako, Junpei, and Yukari ran in front of them, all wielding strange devices in their hands with red armbands.

(Dimitri) "Wait, that thing is too dangerous for you to-!"

Minako turned to them with a smirk, giving them a thumbs up and cutting Dimitri off.

(Minako) "Don't worry. Bandits and cultists are your guys things, Shadows are ours!"

(Junpei) "Hell yeah, time for us to finally shine!"

(Yukari) "Please focus, you two!"

(Minato) "You wanted to see where we got our combat skills from, right Dimitri? Here's your answer."

Everyone watched with confusion as they pointed strange devices to all their heads.

(Minato/Minako, Junpei, and Yukari)

"ORPHEUS!" "HERMES!" "IO!"

The monster seemed to recoil in surprise once the four pulled the trigger, summoning monsters of their own, igniting the area around them in a bright blue flame.

They rushed the monster with their weapons raised, joined by their ghastly summons and seemed to attack with near perfect synchronization.

Looking back at the bridge, the rest of them appeared to be doing the same and wiping out the smaller monsters with ease.

(Shinji) "The hell are you doing standing still, get a damn move on!"

(Byleth) "You heard them, MOVE IT!"

The Blue Lions did as commanded, running from the fight, though most of them couldn't tear their eyes off from what they were seeing.

(Sylvain) "Holy hell, they're tearing those things apart! What even are they?!"

(Felix) "Tch, no wonder they always seemed like they were holding back, it's because they were!"

(Annette) "Are those made from magic?!"

(Mercedes) "They look more like ghosts to me!"

(Ashe) "I-I hope they're not, but I'm glad they're on our side!"

(Ingrid) "Think they can teach us how to do that too?"

(Dedue) "I do not think we should be asking questions like these right now!"

(Dimitri) "Agreed, we need to find somewhere safe!"

(Byleth) What kind of place is their world where fighting monsters like these is normal for them?!

...

(Elizabeth) "Hah, I knew they'd have no problem."

Sothis watched the ongoing fight with her jaw opened wide, not believing what was happening.

...

Once the Full Moon Shadow was dispatched of, the members of S.E.E.S moved to find the Blue Lions.

(Fuuka) "Good work everyone, the rest of the shadows are disappearing en masse."

(Mitsuru) "Operation complete, though I cannot say I feel particularly great after this victory."

(Ken) "I can't believe the Dark Hour followed us here..."

(Koromaru) "Woof!"

(Aigis) "Koromaru agrees."

(Minato) "Makes sense something would be up if we could still use our evokers here, even outside the Dark Hour."

(Yukari) "I can't help but feel responsible. We brought the Dark Hour to a place that didn't even have to deal with it..."

(Junpei) "Saving one world was already great, but maybe we'll get the credit for two?"

(Shinji) "Tch, what a pain in the ass."

(Akihiko) "Suppose we just need to keep in mind of the moon here too, on top of all the other things to worry about."

(Minako) "Feels good finally getting to let loose without worrying about witnes-...Oh crap, where did the Blue Lions go! They didn't exactly look like they'd forget about this anytime soon!"

Fuuka quickly found where they were hiding, and S.E.E.S moved to find and explain everything they could.

Or at least, attempt to explain.

Mitsuru and Minato had to do most of the explaining.

[catenaaurea]

The Roman Catechism

Part One: The Creed

ARTICLE I : "I BELIEVE IN GOD, THE FATHER ALMIGHTY, CREATOR OF HEAVEN AND EARTH”

The Meaning of this Article

The meaning of the above words is this: I believe with certainty, and without a shadow of doubt profess my belief in God the Father, the First Person of the Trinity, who by His omnipotence created from nothing and preserves and governs the heavens and the earth and all things which they contain; and not only do I believe in Him from my heart and profess this belief with my lips, but with the greatest ardor and piety I tend towards Him, as the supreme and most perfect good.

Let this serve as a brief summary of this first Article. But since great mysteries lie concealed under almost every word, the pastor must now give them a more careful consideration, in order that, as far as God has permitted, the faithful may approach, with fear and trembling, to contemplate the glory of His majesty.

“I Believe”

The word believe does not here mean to think, to suppose, lo be of opinion; but, as the Sacred Scriptures teach, it expresses the deepest conviction, by which the mind gives a firm and unhesitating assent to God revealing His mysterious truths. As far, therefore, as regards use of the word here, he who firmly and without hesitation is convinced of anything is said to believe.

Faith Excludes Doubt

The knowledge derived through faith must not be considered less certain because its objects are not seen; for the divine light by which we know them, although it does not render them evident, yet suffers us not to doubt them. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath himself shone in our hearts, that the gospel be not hidden to us, as to those that perish.

Faith Excludes Curiosity

From what has been said it follows that he who is gifted with this heavenly knowledge of faith is free from an inquisitive curiosity. For when God commands us to believe He does not propose to us to search into His divine judgments, or inquire into their reason and cause, but demands an unchangeable faith, by which the mind rests content in the knowledge of eternal truth. And indeed, since we have the testimony of the Apostle that God is true; and every man a liar, and since it would argue arrogance and presumption to disbelieve the word of a grave and sensible man affirming anything as true, and to demand that he prove his statements by arguments or witnesses, how rash and foolish are those, who, hearing the words of God Himself, demand reasons for His heavenly and saving doctrines? Faith, therefore, must exclude not only all doubt, but all desire for demonstration.

Faith Requires Open Profession

The pastor should also teach that he who says, I believe, besides declaring the inward assent of the mind, which is an internal act of faith, should also openly profess and with alacrity acknowledge and proclaim what he inwardly and in his heart believes. For the faithful should be animated by the same spirit that spoke by the lips of the Prophet when he said: I believe; and therefore did I speak, and should follow the example of the Apostles who replied to the princes of the people: We cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. They should be encouraged by these noble words of St. Paul: I am not ashamed of the gospel. For it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; and likewise by those other words; in which the truth of this doctrine is expressly confirmed: With the heart we believe unto justice; but with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

“In God”

From these words we may learn how exalted are the dignity and excellence of Christian wisdom, and what a debt of gratitude we owe to the divine goodness. For to us it is given at once to mount as by the steps of faith to the knowledge of what is most sublime and desirable.

Knowledge Of God More Easily Obtained Through Faith Than Through Reason

There is a great difference between Christian philosophy and human wisdom. The latter, guided solely by the light of nature, advances slowly by reasoning on sensible objects and effects, and only after long and laborious investigation is it able at length to contemplate with difficulty the invisible things of God, to discover and understand a First Cause and Author of all things. Christian philosophy, on the contrary, so quickens the human mind that without difficulty it pierces the heavens, and, illumined with divine light, contemplates first, the eternal source of light, and in its radiance all created things: so that we experience with the utmost pleasure of mind that we have been called, as the Prince of the Apostles says, out of darkness into his admirable light, and believing we rejoice with joy unspeakable.

Justly, therefore, do the faithful profess first to believe in God, whose majesty, with the Prophet Jeremias, we declare incomprehensible. For, as the Apostle says, He dwells in light inaccessible, which no man hath seen, nor can see; as God Himself, speaking to Moses, said: No man shall see my face and live. The mind cannot rise to the contemplation of the Deity, whom nothing approaches in sublimity, unless it be entirely disengaged from the senses, and of this in the present life we art naturally incapable.

Knowledge Of God Obtained Through Faith Is Clearer

But while this is so, yet God, as the Apostle says, left not himself without testimony, doing good from heaven, giving rains and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness. Hence it is that the philosophers conceived no mean idea of the Divinity, ascribed to Him nothing corporeal, gross or composite. They considered Him the perfection and fullness of all good, from whom, as from an eternal, inexhaustible fountain of goodness and benignity, flows every perfect gift to all creatures. They called Him the wise, the author and lover of truth, the just, the most beneficent, and gave Him also many other appellations expressive of supreme and absolute perfection. They recognized that His immense and infinite power fills every place and extends to all things

These truths the Sacred Scriptures express far better and much more clearly, as in the following passages: God is a spirit; Be ye perfect, even as also your heavenly Father is perfect; All things are naked and open to his eyes; O the depth of the riches of the wisdom and of the knowledge of God! God is true; I am the way, the truth, and the life; Thy right hand is full of justice; Thou openest thy hand, and fillest with blessing every living creature; and finally: Whither shall go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy face? If I ascend into heaven, thou art there; if I descend into hell, thou art there. If I take my wings early in the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, etc., and Do I not fill heaven and earth, saith the Lord?

Knowledge Of God Obtained Through Faith Is More Certain

These great and sublime truths regarding the nature of God, which are in full accord with Scripture, the philosophers were able to learn from an investigation of God's works. But even here we see the necessity of divine revelation if we reflect that not only does faith, as we have already observed, make known clearly and at once to the rude and unlettered, those truths which only the learned could discover, and that by long study; but also that the knowledge obtained through faith is much more certain and more secure against error than if it were the result of philosophical inquiry.

Knowledge Of God Obtained Through Faith Is More Ample And Exalted

But how much more exalted must not that knowledge of the Deity be considered, which cannot be acquired in common by all from the contemplation of nature, but is peculiar to those who are illumined by the light of faith?

This knowledge is contained in the Articles of the Creed, which disclose to us the unity of the Divine Essence and the distinction of Three Persons, and show also that God Himself is the ultimate end of our being, from whom we are to expect the enjoyment of the eternal happiness of heaven, according to the words of St. Paul: God is a rewarder of them that seek Him. How great are these rewards, and whether they are such that human knowledge could aspire to their attainment, we learn from these words of Isaias uttered long before those of the Apostle: From the beginning of the world they have not heard, nor perceived with the ears: the eye hath not seen besides thee, O God, what things thou hast prepared for them that wait for thee.

The Unity Of Nature In God

From what is said it must also be confessed that there is but one God, not many gods. For we attribute to God supreme goodness and infinite perfection, and it is impossible that what? is supreme and most perfect could be common to many. If a being lack anything that constitutes supreme perfection, it is therefore imperfect and cannot have the nature of God.

The unity of God is also proved from many passages of Sacred Scripture. It is written: Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord; again the Lord commands: Thou shalt not have strange gods before me; and further He often admonishes us by the Prophet: I am the first, and I am the last, and besides me there is no God. The Apostle also openly declares: One Lord, one faith, one baptism.

It should not, however, excite our surprise if the Sacred Scriptures sometimes give the name of God to creatures. For when they call the Prophets and judges gods, they do not speak according to the manner of the Gentiles, who, in their folly and impiety, formed to themselves many gods; but express, by a manner of speaking then in use, some eminent quality or function conferred on such persons by the gift of God.

The Trinity Of Persons In God

The Christian faith, therefore, believes and professes, as is declared in the Nicene Creed in confirmation of this truth, that God in His Nature, Substance and Essence is one. But soaring still higher, it so understands Him to be one that it adores unity in trinity and trinity in unity. Of this mystery we now proceed to speak, as it comes next in order in the Creed.

[yhwhrulz]

Wayside Chapel Daily Devotional 18th November 2023

November 18

Hebrews 11:6 6And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

What does it take to please God? Faith! Remember that faith is described as being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we can't see. Why is faith needed to please God? The passage answers, "because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."

First we must believe He exists. Though we have mountains of evidence, it still takes faith to believe the unseen. God wants you to know He is real. That is the beginning of your spiritual journey. Somewhere along the road of life you began to consider that He was real and involved in your life. Our sinful nature will fight acknowledgment of this reality because it implies submission. If I accept the work of the Spirit in me and acknowledge that God is real, I owe a debt of gratitude to my Maker. Then I begin to realize I may not be living according to my gracious Maker's design. Just to begin believing that He exists starts a cycle of reconciliation and change in authority over my life.

Then the passage tells us that we need to believe that God rewards those who earnestly seek Him. If we believe He exists but don't believe He rewards the ones who earnestly seek Him, we have misconstrued the loving relational nature of God. We have made Him out to be a dictator rather than a loving Father. Have you taken both steps, belief in His existence and His loving relational nature? Then you are pleasing God. If you are stuck on that journey, ask Him to show you where your attitude or understanding has gone off track. He wants to show you and to draw you into a personal, loving relationship.

Meditation: Can I say that I am earnestly seeking God?

[slasherhaven]

Can I request Thomas and the Sinclair brothers with a supportive s/o? Like the s/o's always telling them how great they're doing and how proud they are of them.

Thomas Hewitt and The Sinclair Brothers with a Supportive S/O:

Thomas Hewitt

Thomas deserves plenty of support and praise for a job well done. He does most of the physical labour and all of the heavy lifting in the household, the family couldn't cope without him.

Despite being vital to the family, Thomas doesn't get the amount of support he deserves. Sure, Luda May occasionally comments on how he's a good boy who takes care of the family, but it's not quite enough.

Just to make it clear, Thomas isn't asking for more! He doesn't expect praise or thanks, this is his duty and he will do it.

So, when you come along, not letting him do anything without gratitude, it is...different.

No matter what it is, you thank Thomas genuinely even occasionally throwing in an "I owe you!" Of course, he would never cash in on that debt.

As time goes on you tell him that you're proud of him nearly daily.

Sometimes you randomly throw it out there, with a fleeting comment about being proud to be with a man who cares so much for his family.

Other times, you'll be stroking his hair, whispering adoringly about how proud you are of him and how grateful you and the family are for all his hard work.

He had come to expect no gratitude for his work, he didn't expect anymore, and he still didn't but he had to admit that it was a nice feeling. It made him feel appreciated and loved.

Whenever you see that he is having a bad day, whether he's aching from physical labour or stressed from Hoyt's bad mood, you always make sure to remind him of what a good job he is doing.

Just that little bit of sincere appreciation makes Thomas feel a little lighter. The work he did is noticed by someone, someone who loves and appreciates him.

Bo Sinclair

Bo can't remember the last time he received so much support from somebody. In fact, he would argue that he never received it and he might be right.

He certainly couldn't remember the last time somebody said they were proud of him. No, he knew that nobody had ever said they were proud of him, and he was certain nobody had ever felt proud of him either.

He was fine with this, is what he would tell you if you asked. Well, you'd probably get an even more dismissive response than that in reality.

When you first started showing him sincere support, he was suspicious. You're being...serious? If so then...why? He brushes it off, doesn't let it bother him.

But you continue, always expressing when you're impressed with something he did (normally when he was working on a car).

You need to be careful with your phrasing when it comes to Bo, simply telling him that he's doing a good job will make him feel like you're being condescending rather than sincere. It's better to express it through praise and gushing over him rather than more sincere appreciation of him.

Maybe you'll be able to ease him into accepting some more genuine praise from you.

At first you think it only fuels his ego, making him more cocky, but as you get to know him better you realise that it means more to him than he lets on.

It's the first time that you express pride in him that makes him pause.

You've expressed a certain level of pride to be with him before, when strangers came into Ambrose but he assumed a part of it was an act.

He was having a bad day and you wanted to try to fix that. You knew your next few words could either help or just makes things worse, but you took the risk. You told him that you were proud of him, plain and simple but deeply meaningful.

Bo doesn't understand when he started appreciating your little comments, maybe he always had, but he's come to accept it finally.

He just sighed and nodded as he wrapped an arm around your shoulders. You stayed silent, not wanting to push your luck.

Vincent Sinclair

Vincent hasn't received much support or praise since his mother, the only person who ever really gave him it at all.

Then it was just him and his brothers, and he wasn't going to get too much support from them.

He doesn't need to be told he's doing a good job for the most part. When it comes to running Ambrose and it's upkeep, he knows that he pulls his weight and does a good job. Hell, Bo can barely even complain about it, and that's good enough for him.

But still...he didn't get any support or praise for it. Which is fine by him, at least that's what he tells himself.

Of course, when travellers come into town and Vincent deal with them, you tell him how proud you are of him and that he does a great job. This is nice to hear and it might even get him a little flustered but it's easier for him to shrug off. He appreciates it but it's just his job, not what he's passionate about.

That's why you get a much better reaction out of him when you comment on his art work.

When you express your pride in having such a talented boyfriend. Now, that's something that will get him flustered.

When he finishes a new piece and lets you see it for the first time, watching you admire it before expression your admiration.

This is the praise he thrives on, and he will do anything to hear your pride in him again.

Out of the few inhabitants of Ambrose, you are the most supportive of Vincent's art (the pieces uninvolved with victims) and you're vocal about that support, always voicing it to Vincent.

Vincent decides that he doesn't need the support, he's gone long enough without it, but he also knows that if it stopped he would miss it desperately. Miss you desperately.

Lester Sinclair

Lester isn't really that insecure about his own capabilities. He knows there are things that people can do better than him but it doesn't bother him. He knows what he is good at and he knows he is good at it, that he is perfectly capable.

Sometimes he thinks that, compared to his brothers, he is not such a vital part of keeping the town running. Though, there are times when he realises they need him just as much as he needs them.

Lester doesn't need much praise, he's not over-confident by any means, he is simply content.

But then you came along and were just so damn supportive.

No matter what Lester did, no matter how small the task, you were always genuinely appreciative.

Whenever a group of travellers came into town and you and Lester reunited after the chaos, you would always tell him that you're proud of him while you gave him a hug.

And, of course, you're always supportive of him. Whether he's kicking his truck back into action or dealing with roadkill, you make sure to mention that he's doing a good job.

Lester doesn't get much appreciation from his brothers and he definitely never gets any praise, he just does the work expected of him without expecting any reward. But you always make him feel like he's doing good, something he never really thought he needed.

Maybe he didn't need it but he definitely likes it. He eats up any praise and support you offer him, it always puts a smile on his face and brightens up his day. It makes him feel seen.

[angellesword]

YOUR EYES TELL | JJK (11)

Summary: You live in a world where people see in black and white. The solution to finally see the colors? It’s simple. You need to meet your soulmate and look at him in the eyes, but what if the person bound to you is already contented with the monochromatic world? What if…Jeongguk, your soulmate, is already in love with someone else?

Alternatively:

“A future without you is a world without color.”

Genre: soulmate au, e2l, slow burn, ANGST, fluff, roommate au

Pairing: Artist!Jungkook x Lawyer!Reader

Word Count: 2.2k

SERIES:  CHAPTER 10 | CHAPTER 12

"You don't have to pay me, Guk."

 Jeongguk shook his head instantly. Yoongi was being absurd. How could he not pay his older friend?

 "I know you have the money, but I can't just take ten thousand dollars from you, hyung." The younger boy pouted his lips.

Yoongi should know by now that Jeongguk hated owing people something.

 Debt of gratitude sucked. It couldn't be paid. Ever. Jeongguk didn't want that. He hated sleeping at night thinking that someone out there could manipulate his feelings—this was how he perceived debt of gratitude: a manipulation. It was because he felt like he was bound please the person who helped him. It was as though he needed to act in accordance to the likes of said person.

 "Fine." Yoongi shrugged his shoulders as if he didn't care about any of this. "Pay me whenever you want,"

 Jeongguk snorted as your voice echoed inside his head. If you were here, you would tell Yoongi that he couldn't just tell his debtor to pay him whenever he wanted. This wasn't how it was supposed to go.

 Civil obligations like this one was only enforceable for ten years. If Jeongguk couldn't pay within the said period, the obligation would then become a natural one—something that would only be paid out of conscience.

 Jeongguk shook his head. Why was he thinking about the stupid law? Why couldn't he stop imagining your pretty smile as you talked about certain provisions? Why was he hesitating to accept his hyung's money?

 And most importantly, why didn't he want to leave you now?

 Your soulmate loaned thousands of dollars from Yoongi just so he could pay the down payment for the apartment that he wanted buy. He promised himself that he would terminate the lease of contract with you after four months. He just couldn't live with you anymore.

 You were supposed to be temporary in his life; however, with the way you were invading his mind even though you weren't around, Jeongguk realized that you were his constant.

 You were the only person who could tolerate his bratty attitude. You were the only person who couldn't get mad at him. You were the only person who made him feel special and needy—Jeon Jeongguk needed your attention so much that he felt like had to run.

 He didn't know when it started, especially because he believed he was not over Red yet.

 Red.

 Was Red the reason why Jeongguk wanted to leave you?

 This was what you thought while clutching the paper on your chest.

 It hurt, but as usual you had to pretend like you were okay.

 "Your parents are back in their hotel," said by Jeongguk the moment he entered your apartment.

 He was back from the thirty-minute drive.

 Your parents were scheduled to fly to Jeju Island tomorrow morning.

 "That's good." You discreetly wiped your tears away, trying so hard to make your tone sound enthusiastic. 

 Your back was facing him since you were afraid to let him see you crying.

 You didn't want to pester Jeongguk regarding his plan to leave. You felt like he wouldn't appreciate the drama you would obviously bring.

  Jeongguk didn't deserve drama—not when it was clear that he was exhausted. He took care of you these past weeks. The only thing you could do was to give him a damn break even if it meant sleepless night as questions like 'why am I not enough?' clouded your mind.

 "Thanks, Jeongguk. Goodnight!" You hastily added, refusing to look at him as you made your way to your room.

 "Wait," he stopped you like the way he did earlier today. This time, however, he stopped you by breaking your heart even more.

 "C-Can I sleep in your room tonight?" Jeongguk swallowed the lump in his throat; his heart was beating so fast.

 You flinched.

 How dare he ask something so insensitive?

 "Why?" Your lips trembled as you finally found the courage to look at him. It was a wrong move, though. You couldn't do it. You couldn't look at him without tears filling your eyes.

 Looking at Jeon Jeongguk made you realize what you could never have: him.

 You were grateful he's averting your gaze. Jeongguk couldn't meet your eyes as well. He was embarrassed and afraid. What if you rejected him? He didn't have any reason to cuddle with you tonight. Jimin was right. Your parents were the solution to help you get back on your feet. It was as though they had some kind of power. You didn't look like you needed your soulmate to make you feel better anymore. 

 You were back to your old self.

 Sadly Jeongguk had no idea that you were just pretending. He didn't know that you were forced to be okay once again. He wasn't even aware that he was one of the reasons why you're acting like everything was fine.

 "I just want to make sure you're alright," his voice was barely audible.

 Jeon Jeongguk was a liar. The truth was you weren't the only one getting used to cuddling with each other. Jeongguk was also craving to embrace you—to listen to your controlled breathing and raging heartbeat.

 "Really?" You suddenly huffed, causing Jeongguk to flick his gaze at you.

 Your soulmate was a good liar, you were not.

 There's a point where pain was too much to handle.

 Jeongguk was staring at you with puzzled expression. His mouth went agape upon seeing the tears streaming down your face.

 "You want to make sure I'm okay so you can finally leave?"

 "What?" He furrowed his brow, clearly not understanding the words you just said. How could he focus on anything when all he could see was your tears?

 Jeongguk wanted to wipe your stupid tears, but you weren't letting him.

 You took three steps backwards when he tried to reach for your face.

 Anger, frustration, and pain. All of these are visible in your eyes. Your thoughts were poisoning your mind—making you imagine what you thought Jeongguk felt.

 "You...called my parents b'cause you're t-tired of me, right?" You slurred.

 You wanted to run to your room since you knew you couldn't stop speaking your thoughts anymore. This wasn't right. You told yourself you weren't going to make this hard for your soulmate, so why couldn't he do the same thing for you?

 Why was he cornering you? Why couldn't he just go away? 

 And why couldn't you stop the venom in your words?

 "You don't want to deal with me anymore. You want to leave but you're guilty. You feel like you are responsible for my pain," this must be it. You kept thinking what triggered his sudden change of behavior. It couldn't be because he finally realized that he liked you too.

 No. That couldn't be right. The only plausible explanation for this was because of the guilt he felt. He only started to act like he cared when you told him that he hurt you too.

 "That's not true..." But Jeongguk was quick to dismiss the negative thoughts inside your head.

 You inhaled deeply. Fresh tears stained your cheeks.

 "What's the truth, then?" You picked up the paper that would prove his intention to leave.

 It was too late to stop now. You were already acting pathetic in front of him. 

 "Why didn't you tell me you bought an apartment?" You continued to ask despite knowing the reason.

 You didn't. You were imagining things. What you think was different from what Jeongguk felt. Admittedly, his eyes widened. He wasn't expecting you to confront him about this. Hell. You weren't even supposed to find out this way.

 Jeongguk was planning to simply sign the contract to terminate your lease agreement with him, leave your apartment in the middle of the night and never come back.

 Guess he couldn't do it now, huh?

 "I-I," he trailed off instantly. How could he explain this to you when he himself didn't know why he wanted to leave?

 Jeongguk wished it was easy to face his emotions. He identified them, but he still didn't know what to do—not even after spending weeks cuddling with you.

 He needed to be alone, he needed to figure out what he felt and what this all meant to him on his own.

 "Is it me, Gukkie?" You sobbed and your soulmate's heart clenched.

 Your back was against the wall, Jeongguk was standing so close to you to the point that he could literally see the tears forming in your eyes.

 It broke him more.

 "Did I cross the line? Am I being too pushy? Annoying? Hard do deal with?"

 Jeongguk could only bite his bottom lip.

 You proceeded to list the things your former maids despised about you.

 "Is Miri too much too handle? Am I picky with the food? Is it hard to wake me up in the morning?"

 Jeongguk avoided your eyes, his Adam’s apple bobbed up and down.

 You noticed that he couldn't speak. Why? Was it difficult to admit the truth?

 "Or am I not buying you enough things?"

 The conflicted boy shook his head vigorously. You did not understand anything.

 "Do you need a new laptop? New clothes? Art materials?" You sounded so desperate. "Tell me, Gukkie. I'll do anything you want."

 "I don't need you to do anything." He said coldly as he moved away from you.

 Pain attacked your chest when you saw indifference dancing in his face.

 "You're still leaving me?" You quivered in fear. You were really pathetic. You said to yourself that you wanted him to go away, but the thought of him actually leaving made your stomach turn upside down.

 "Yes."

 It felt like an arrow shot you in the heart.

 How could he not stutter? Was he really decided to leave you?

 Jeongguk saw how his answer affected you, so he immediately defended himself.

 "I mean it's about right. I told you I'm gonna stay here for a few months. It's over now. I don't want to be your tenant anymore."

 "But why!" You whined. This wasn't fair! How could he decide without consulting you first? This was a reciprocal obligation. You deserved to know his reasons.

 Jeongguk scowled. He wanted to leave now. It was getting unbearable to see you cry—it was as though his chest was going to explode.

 "Do I really need a reason?" His frown deepened. "Can't I just leave because I don't want to be with you anymore?" A lie.

 "You're lying." You refused to believe him even if you knew he was telling the truth. This wasn't you. You weren't like this. It was unlike of you to keep pushing Jeongguk. You teased him all the time, but you didn't mean to make him uncomfortable. His happiness was your top priority.

 You swore you just wanted to know the truth. You deserved a reasonable explanation. He couldn't just say he didn't want to be with you. If he couldn't love you, then he should at least be able to respect you like a normal person.

 "Why would I lie—"

 "Because I'm your soulmate!" You cut him off. Your emotions were overflowing.

 Why couldn't you just let him go?

 "And I love you, Jeongguk." You cried. The table had turned. Just a few breaths ago, he was the one begging to touch you. Right now, however, it was you who was desperately trying to latch on him.

 Jeongguk pushed your hand away. He couldn't have you touching him. It would only make it harder for him to leave.

 "I love you so please don't leave me—"

 "You don't." He cut you off, flinching so hard because of how much he hated your confession. He felt like he was gonna puke.

 "I do, Guk. I love you—"

 "No!" Jeongguk insisted otherwise. He was being stubborn and it was irritating you.

 Who did he think he was to tell you what you felt?

 "You don't love me, okay!? You are wrong in all of this!" He took a step back. He was acting as if your touch was going to burn him.

 "You are delusional. Too caught up with the idea of soulmate that you failed to see the truth!"

 Jeongguk was shaking in frustration. He hated that he had to be mean just to make you understand things—similar to what Red did.

 "I can see the truth! I know the truth!" You carried on.

 He was the one being blinded here, not you.

 "You're just ignoring the signs, Jeongguk. The universe wants us to be together!"

 This wasn't a coincidence. You couldn't be wrong—not when he could see colors because of the love you felt for him.

 But he used this against you.

 "I am not your soulmate." His jaw clenched. "Your eyes can tell."

 You stopped breathing.

 "Your eyes tell." He repeated.

 Your mouth felt dry.

 It felt like you had been stabbed straight in the heart.

 If he was your soulmate, if he ever loved you—or cared, you would see colors by now.

 But no.

 You still see in black and white.

 Your eyes would not lie because Jeon Jeongguk was right....

 Your Eyes Tell.

[nanasparadise]

“Your musketeer in a blue tunic” Yan! Polnareff x female reader (musketeer AU)

Hiya everyone! As promised, here is a Yan! Polnareff writing, since he was in the top four of the poll for the special but hasn’t reached the top three. I thought it might be a fun idea to make him a musketeer and now I’ve realised this fic turned out to be low-key a Belle and Gaston situation from Beauty and the Beast lmao. Anyway, there might be historical inaccuracies in the story, I’m sorry for that.

Summary: You’re a farmer woman in 18th century France and a certain musketeer keeps crossing paths with you…

TW: toxic relationship, noncon kiss, low-key harassment, forced marriage, MATURE AUDIENCE ONLY/MINORS DNI

I do not condone any yandere behaviour in real life.

Word count: 3900

“Just about half an hour and I’ll be there”, you mumble to yourself. 

The pouring rain drenches your whole form, an icy cold having already nested deep in your bones. But you can’t stop now, even if it’s raining cats and dogs. You know you have to arrive to the main market place, which is located a good three hours from the farm you live in. If the wool – which you hope isn’t too wet, knowing the burlap bags aren’t protecting it well from the rain – won’t be sold today, you don’t know how you could afford some bread for your family. You think of your little siblings, how they always stare at you with big eyes, expecting at least some crumbs of stale bread in order to satiate their hunger a bit. Your heart aches painfully at that mental image. No, you’re going to sell the wool at all cost, no matter if it means you get sick due to the weather. You owe it to your loved ones, needing to protect and provide for them as the oldest sibling. 

A chilly wind blows intensely into your face, making you shiver even more. Lucky for you, no other person is currently on the road, meaning you’re in safety. You’re aware about how many sketchy men lurk in these streets by the countryside, just waiting for a young woman like yourself to pass by and to do God knows what with her. As a protection measure, you always carry a knife with you, hidden in your boot. Fortunately, you haven’t needed to use it, yet…

Suddenly, you hear the footsteps of a horse approaching you, the characteristic sounds of its hooves drawing closer to you. Your first instinct is to immediately pull out your knife, but you refrain yourself. 

“It’s probably just another merchant who wants to go to the market, too”, you think, comforting yourself. And even if that shouldn’t be the case, it would be wiser to take your possible aggressor by surprise with an attack if needed. 

The steps are now dangerously close to you, too close for your liking, until they come to a halt. Surprised, you stop your walking as well and look up to the person on the horse. Next to you on his steed is a man around your age, probably a few years older, with peculiar silver hair and bright blue eyes. Through his uniform, consisting of a characteristic blue tunic with a white cross on it, you immediately recognise the stranger as a King’s musketeer. You hastily curtsy and meekly avert your gaze, given that he’s of a higher social rank. Why would a musketeer want from you, a farmer? 

“Good day, Monsieur”, you greet the musketeer politely. 

“Good day, Mademoiselle”, the stranger answers jovially. “Please forgive my intervention, but what does a young lady like you travel alone on such a dangerous road?”, he asks you, sincere concern marking his voice. 

Why would he care? And why would he refer to you as a lady when you’re clearly just a commoner? You get the sudden urge to grab your knife again, but of course your rational brain side hinders you from doing so.

“I’m only going to the market place, good sir. I’d like to sell some wool”, you explain shortly, your eyes still not meeting the stranger’s. 

“All alone?”, the Frenchman wonders. 

“I’m afraid I don’t have much of a choice, Monsieur. My father has to work on the farm and my mother looks after my younger siblings”, you reply truthfully. Honestly, you’d prefer not giving too much information away to the stranger, but lying doesn’t seem like a safe option either. 

“I see, Mademoiselle,” the musketeer utters politely, “in that case, I’d be pleased to escort you to the market place. After all, my heart couldn’t handle if something happened to a damsel.” 

“Thank you for your generous offer, Monsieur”, you answer civilly, curtsying gracefully again. Though internally, you sigh and roll your eyes at the Frenchman’s words. 

“More like his ego couldn’t handle getting rejected by a common woman”, you ponder cynically. You’re about to continue your walking as the stranger stops your action abruptly. 

“Wait a moment, Mademoiselle,” he shouted hastily, “I’ll take your bags and settle them on my horse.” The silver-haired man dismounts from his white horse and takes the bags filled with wool from your hands, placing and tying them on the animal’s back. 

“You are far too kind, Monsieur”, you say with an overly sweet voice. Lucky for you, the stranger doesn’t seem to notice the hint of sarcasm hidden in your tone. Instead, he smiles brightly at you, revealing a row of impeccable white teeth. 

“As a musketeer, it’s my duty to help a lady in need”, he boasts proudly. Again, you fight the urge to roll your eyes. “Ah, how rude of me, Mademoiselle, I haven’t properly introduced myself. My name is Jean-Pierre Polnareff, I’m delighted to make your acquaintance, Miss…?” 

“Y/N L/N”, you reply meekly. 

“What a lovely name, Milady.”

~

The pair of you have been walking silently side by side for a while. You simply wish to arrive as fast as possible to the market place, wanting to get rid of Polnareff’s present. After some time, the stormy weather has changed into a brighter, more pleasant sky. Though some sun rays peek through the clouds, the cold from the previous rain remains. Upon seeing your slightly quivering form, Polnareff offers you a blanket he has in his supplies with him. Politely, you decline his offer. You certainly don’t want to be more in the debt of such a high ranking man. 

“I apologise if this may come across as rude, Mademoiselle Y/N, but I couldn’t help but notice that there isn’t a ring on your finger”, the musketeer suddenly mentions. The hairs on your arms stand up at his observation and you instinctively straighten your back. If Polnareff has seen your discomfort, he still chooses to continue speaking. “And you’ve said previously you’re living with your family on a farm. How come such a fair maiden like you isn’t married yet? I reckon you must have many suitors.” Something about his tone and the dangerous gleam in his blue eyes sets you on edge. 

“Oh, I do have had some suitors in the past,” you answer truthfully, but cautiously, “but I’ve chosen to not marry. My family needs me and I don’t wish to let them down.” Polnareff gives you a tender glance, the prying shimmer being replaced with sympathy now. 

“Maybe you’ll soon find a wealthy man who’s able to help your family out”, he mumbles softly, though you still could hear his words. 

“I’d rather not base my life on such an improbable dream. After all, I’m just a common farmer,” you say, slightly amused. “He doesn’t have a clue how life’s for a commoner, does he?” 

“So you’d like to marry? It’s your dream, didn’t you say that, Mademoiselle?”, Polnareff counters, hope swinging in his voice. Why is he hopeful? But you decide to not voice this thought. 

“Well, that’s quite a difficult question, Monsieur Polnareff,” you retort,  feeling unsure now “it would be the wisest choice for me to marry, but at the moment, I feel content to take care of my family.” For some reason, the musketeer’s face falls at your last sentence. Disappointment takes over it instead, his lips turning into a bitter, thin line. 

“Ah, I see”, he replies wearily. You immediately notice the change of atmosphere, though you don’t comment on it. Instead, you two continue strolling in silence.

Eventually, the pair of you arrive at the market place. During your travel, none of you spoke further, the mood being too tense and awkward. You settle your burlap bags on the floor on a free spot after the silver-haired man has removed them from his horse for you. 

“My sincerest thanks, Monsieur Polnareff.” You bow politely. Even though your eyes have been trained on the floor for only a matter of seconds, some stealthy thief has been able to snatch one of your bags. Immediately, your head leaps up. 

“Hey, this belongs to me! Give it back!”, you scream angrily. You wouldn’t let some trickster take your wool, not after working so hard for your family! You’re ready to run after the knave, but a hand on your forearm hinders you from doing so. 

“Let me handle this, Mademoiselle Y/N,” Polnareff says confidently, “you’ll have your merchandise back in no time. Just wait for me here.” Quickly, the musketeer dashes into an alleyway after the thief. Confused, you’re left alone at the market place, the man’s horse being your only companion. A sigh rolls off your lips. 

“Guess I’ll have to do what he says if I ever want that wool back”, you exclaim exasperatedly. This is the last thing you’ve needed today. First, you’ve been drenched by the rain, then a weird musketeer has started following you and asking you eerily invasive question and now your precious goods have been stolen. In the meantime, you try your best to sell the remaining wool.

After half an hour, you still haven’t sold any wool at all. Though you were definitely drawing attention on you by shouting out some offers, no one has seemed to be interested yet. No one even cared enough to look towards your direction. 

“I guess I’ll just have to stay all day, then”, you think gloomily. From the corner of your eyes, you notice an all too familiar form approaching you, though this time with a bag in his hand. 

“Mademoiselle Y/N!”, Polnareff shouts excitedly, “I’ve retrieved your bag from the thief!” A sincere expression of gratitude appears on your face. Yes, the man is more than annoying to you with his clingy behaviour, but at least he was chasing the trickster for you! 

“Thank you so much, Monsieur Polnareff!”, you exclaim happily, relieved to have your wool back. Now there’s only the matter of selling it left… 

“Of course, nothing to thank for, Mademoiselle! I’d never want to see such a charming lady like you in need.” 

Purposefully, you ignore his statement, an awkward feeling bubbling up in you. Instead you’re thanking him again. All the while, the Frenchman keeps staring at you with a look of fondness, a huge and proud smile adorning his face. In his mind, he’s just proven to you how capable he is of taking care of you and your family. How could you refuse him now? He’s literally your knight in shining armour! Or your musketeer in a blue tunic. It doesn’t matter, he’s practically your hero! 

Polnareff’s grin only widens at the thought of you swooning over him. The silver-haired man doesn’t know why he feels like this towards you. Maybe it’s because you just looked so pitiful when he saw you on that road, soaking wet from the rain. Maybe it’s his pride that doesn’t let him relent. Maybe it’s the way your eyes sparked with determination and love when you talked about your family. Maybe it’s your radiant atmosphere, which draws him in like a moth. Maybe you’re secretly a witch who put a love spell on his poor self, making him a fool for you after having only met you. Maybe, maybe, maybe…  

Polnareff quickly stops his pondering. “It’s not of importance,” he muses, “as long as she’ll realise I’m the best choice for her.”

“I see you haven’t sold any of your goods yet”, the musketeer says, trying to sound casually. Though in his thoughts, he already has a plan schemed. 

“No, unfortunately not,” you reply, an exasperated sigh following swiftly, “but there’s still some time left until I have to return home. Surely, I’ll be able to sell some.” 

“You know, Mademoiselle Y/N, I’d rather not see you standing here all day, maybe even for it to be in vain,” Polnareff utters, concerning coating his voice, “let me help you, I’ll buy the wool.” Your eyes grow big at his proposition. Even though it’s more than a generous offer, especially after all he’s been through for you today, you can’t help but feeling alerted. Why would he go all these lengths for you? He can’t be that kind, there must be something he wants in return. 

“You’re far too generous, Monsieur Polnareff. I can’t accept such an offer”, you tell the musketeer, hoping he’ll actually drop his suggestion. But the Frenchman remains stubborn as a mule. 

“Ah ah Mademoiselle,” he tuts you condescendingly, “I’m a man of my word. How much would you like? Are two livres enough?”

Your eyes widen so much at his offer, you wouldn’t be surprised if your eyeballs fell out. Two livres? Is that man insane? The wool is hardly five sous worth! 

“I think you must have meant two sous, Monsieur Polnareff,” you answer him, still shocked. 

“Pas du tout, Mademoiselle. Two livres is what I said and what I meant. Or would you maybe want more?” 

Vehemently, you shake your head. Two livres… That would feed your family for at least three months! “No Y/N, you can’t take this offer!” Your thoughts interrupt you suddenly. Not only does your conscience forbid you from doing so, your parents would also wonder where all that money comes from. They might assume you’ve stolen it as no one would believe a stranger to be so kind to just give a random farmer way too much money. 

“Monsieur Polnareff,” you try again to change his mind, “I really don’t think you should-“ 

“Ah, there’s my pouch!”, the silver-haired man exclaims happily, ignoring your previous words. Eagerly, he takes two shiny coins out of it, pressing them in your palm. Admitting your defeat, you curtsy and express your deep gratitude again. Though a small part inside you does enjoy the fact of getting provided for.

After your exchange, Polnareff insisted on bringing you home again. You dislike the idea of him knowing exactly where you live, but that man’s stubbornness and pride is bigger than the Palace of Versailles. Which is why the two of you are walking back to your farm, the wool resting on Polnareff’s horse’s back. 

“What are you doing with all the wool, if I may ask?”, you say with a questioning look on your face, “Surely, a musketeer doesn’t need to fabricate his own clothes.” The Frenchman rubs sheepishly behind his neck and offers you a smile. 

“Ah Mademoiselle, you see, I might just donate it. I’ve just wanted to help you out, I don’t need it myself.” Even though you still cannot bring yourself to trust him, your heart warms at his statement. 

“That’s indeed very noble of you, Monsieur Polnareff”, you reply candidly. The musketeer sends you another bright grin, a subtle blush forming on his pale cheeks.

The sun has begun to set as the two of you arrive on the farm. With a polite curtsy, you’re ready to finally return home, excited to tell your family the good news regarding the money. But Polnareff stops your goodbye. His hand finds its way to your wrist, halting your movement. 

“Before we must depart, Mademoiselle Y/N,” he counters hastily, “I’d like to be assured that we’ll meet again soon. I find myself enthralled by your presence.” 

Your heart beats faster at his proposition. Suddenly, you realise the dangerous situation you’re in, the big hand capturing your smaller wrist. Could you really deny him without facing consequences? Thoughts like these rush through your head as the man in front of you keeps waiting for your reaction. Still, you’re going to try. If something should happen, you still have your knife with you and your father would surely rush out once he hears your screams. 

“Monsieur Polnareff,” you start hesitantly, “I’m deeply flattered by your words. You are truly an admirable and honourable man whose kind actions shall always carry my most sincere gratitude. Though I must admit, I don’t think it would be a wise idea to meet again.” The Frenchman makes a crestfallen face at your words. You feel almost bad for him. “Ah, I think I should explain myself further. Well, Monsieur Polnareff, we are of two different social classes, continuing mingling with me would put a bad reputation on you. I cannot offer you something of interest. Plus, I like staying with my family so far, this is my home.” 

“Y/N”, Polnareff whispers affectionately, his thumb rubbing softly on the inside of your wrist. You shoot him a surprised look, confused by him dropping the formal title. If anyone would have heard this, they’d turn it into a scandal. 

“I know my offer might appear strange to you, but I wish to marry out of love one day. I’m aware it’s fairly uncommon and even looked upon with scorn to marry below someone’s station, but the matters of the heart outshine the matters of the mind in my case. I have more than enough money, a comfortable estate and an honourable title. So you’re correct by saying you can’t offer me anything. Though you forgot one important thing, dear Y/N: you can offer me companionship, love, a meaningful bond between two souls.” Upon his last sentence, Polnareff tenderly grabs both of your hands in his, admiring how they seem to fit perfectly. Too astounded by his words, you let the man do as he pleases. Quickly, Polnareff catches on with his speech. “Please Y/N, let me see you again. Let me court you properly. I can give you and your family a beautiful life, a life you deserve.” The silver-haired male’s form moves now closer to yours, his blue eyes fixated on your lips. This action breaks you from the spell you’ve been caught in previously as you abruptly rip your hands off his grip and step back. 

“I’m sorry, Monsieur Polnareff,” you manage to say, your voice sounding breathless from the adrenaline rushing in your veins, “I don’t think I’m the right woman for you. I do not wish to disappoint you further, that’s why I’m being direct with you. I’m going home now, please do not seek out for me. Have a good evening, Monsieur Polnareff.” You give him one last glance, noting his furious facial expression, before you eventually walk rapidly the path up to your family’s farm. 

“I’ll be coming back, Mademoiselle Y/N!”, you hear the musketeer shouting behind you, “I’m not giving up that easily!” His sentences only make you pick up your pace as fear makes itself present in your body. Why couldn’t he just respect your choice? You’re sure there are enough suitable ladies in his rank pining for him, so why would he bother you? Finally, to your happiness, you arrive at the front door. Quickly, you enter your home, locking the door from the inside. Still, it feels as if a pair of blue eyes continues burning holes in your back…

The following month had been both positive and negative. Positive, because your family didn’t need to worry about food thanks to the two livres Polnareff gave you. Negative, because the latter had been true to his word and kept showing up at your place. Every time you told him you won’t change your mind, the musketeer only seemed to be more encouraged to prove you otherwise. 

Today isn’t any different. As you make your way to the market to buy some food, you hear the familiar hooves approaching you. Annoyed, you let out a sigh and roll your eyes. 

“Bonjour Y/N! What a pleasant day to see you again, mon amour!”, Polnareff exclaims happily while he dismounts from his horse to walk next to you. 

“Bonjour Polnareff”, you reply politely. In the meantime, you’ve dropped the titles when you two were alone, not seeing the point of them anymore. Plus, the Frenchman even decides to call you pet names, so why showing him respect? 

“Ah, ma puce, no need to be so cold today! After all, I bring some splendid news”, the Frenchman replies excitedly. You eye him suspiciously, brows knitted together. What on earth is he planning now?  

“And that would be?”, you answer matter-of-factly. “You’re finally leaving me alone?” 

“You see, before I came to meet you, I’ve finally talked with your parents.” At these words, you immediately stop your steps. A feeling of dread emerges in your stomach, making you feel sick. 

“Oh no,” you think desperately, “this can’t be good.” 

“Very lovely people, indeed. It hurts my feelings knowing you haven’t invited me to them, mon cœur”, Polnareff continues his talk, a hand put on his chest in mock concern. 

“And why should I have done such thing?”, you reply coolly, though internally you’re freaking out. You already know you won’t like the answer… 

“My dearest, how come you act so cruel? Don’t you think your future husband should see your parents? After all, we’re betrothed now!” 

“No”, you retort without thinking. Your palms grow sweaty, a deep fear manifesting in your body. The silver-haired man smirks at your reaction. 

“Non? I think your parents disagree with you, ma chérie. In fact, we’ve already picked out a date for the ceremony. Can you believe it? In two months, we’ll be finally one.” Panic overflows your mind, your breathing becoming laboured. How could your parents decide on such a matter behind your bag? After everything you’ve done for your family? Polnareff notices your stress as he softly wraps his arms around your waist and pulls you close to his chest. The musketeer tries to comfort you by shushing you and gently brushing over your back, though his actions only fuel your terror. You squirm in his grasp, trying to escape him, escape this situation, but his grip on you only strengthens. 

“Let me go!”, you scream all while tears stream down your cheeks, “I don’t want to be with you! Why can’t you just accept that?” 

“My little Y/N,” Polnareff mumbles calmly, “if you hadn’t  been so stubborn, we could have discussed the wedding plans together. I know you think our union is not favourable, but if even your family agrees to it, it surely can’t be that wrong, hm? You’re so blinded by your little provincial life that you can’t see what’s best for you. And trust me, my dove, I’m the best choice.” The Frenchman grabs your chin, staring lovingly in your by now puffy eyes. “It’s fine if you need some time to realise that. As long as you remain by my side.” With these words, the silver-haired man puts his mouth on yours, his hand now wandering to your cheek. You wriggle harder in his grasp, though your attempts to escape remain futile. Tenderly, Polnareff caresses your face as his lips finally leave yours. 

“Je t’aime de tout mon cœur, mon ange*”, he whispers adoringly, pressing your face against his chest again. Your tears smudge the blue fabric of his tunic, your voice hoarse from screaming. And even though you wish this is but a nightmare, you start comprehending you’re truly trapped in Polnareff’s oh so loving arms for the rest of your life.

*former French currency. 2 livres are about 30 euros, which was a lot of money back then

*former French currency. 5 sous are about 3,70 euros, which was still quite some money back in the day

*”I love you with all my heart, my angel”

[wearfinethingsalltoowell]

Downton AU Snippet #1

Set in the opening scene of 3.05, Richard’s been Matthew’s valet since abt 3.03

Returning to his dressing room after his sister-in-law’s false labor pains, Matthew Crawley felt a twinge of guilt at seeing his valet still awake.

“It’s nearly two in the morning, Richard. Have we kept all the servants from their rest this evening?” Matthew asked, trying to keep his tone light but unable to hide his genuine concern for the staff’s welfare.

“It was no trouble at all, sir,” Richard responded, conveniently not answering Matthew’s question, “Is everything all right with Lady Sybil?”

“Clarkson says everything is as it should be, and given that I have no experience on the topic, I am going to trust his judgement.”

“In your defense, sir, most men our age have no experience in this particular field.”

“You can say that again. I’m nearing my twenty-eighth year on Earth and I’ve never been around a pregnant woman!”

“A natural consequence of being your mother’s only child, sir. And you should count yourself lucky. When I was younger, I overheard the rather unpleasant experience of a friend of my sister. Believe me when I tell you it’s all I needed to know about the subject.”

“Oh? What happened to her?”

“Her parents were so concerned about her that they shelled out thousands for a huge London doctor to come and treat her. I think he even had a practice on Harley Street. It was all the neighborhood could talk about for weeks. But, during the birth, I guess he missed the symptoms of some disease or other, and she died.” Richard explained, forcing away the growing feeling that he had said too much.

“That’s horrible,” Matthew said, attempting to console his friend, “did you know her well?”

“Not very, though she had been very close with my sister,” Richard said.

“Still, quite tragic, especially for a young woman. Do you remember who the doctor was?” Matthew asked, not knowing what had prompted this sudden curiosity about such a small detail of Richard’s story, but nearly being swallowed by the feeling that it was of paramount importance that he know.

“I could never forget it,” Richard said with a chuckle, “The village was so furious with him, I thought they’d form a mob and storm his practice with pitchforks. It was a Dr. Tapsell.”

Matthew’s blood ran cold, and suddenly he could hear his heart beat speed up.

“Good God,” he breathed, “you don’t mean Phillip Tapsell, do you?” he asked, praying he was wrong in his assumption.

“Yes, sir, it was him. What’s wrong?” Richard questioned when he saw the horrified look on Matthew’s face.

“That’s the doctor Robert has hired for Sybil. I have to tell him right away!”

“I shouldn’t have mentioned it,” Richard said quickly, trying to take back his words, “I wouldn’t want to cause His Lordship any undue stress before his first grandchild’s birth. I’m sure he’s a fine doctor who just made a mistake.”

“Trust me, Richard, if something happens to Sybil, and Cora, my wife, or, god forbid, the Dowager, finds out I knew this information and withheld it, then my war injury will no longer be the most painful thing that’s ever happened to me. I have to tell Robert as soon as I can.”

“If you think it would help, sir.”

“I do, immensely. And I owe you a debt of gratitude for the warning, God only knows what might have happened otherwise. Goodnight.” Matthew said, retreating to his bedroom.

______________________

“You were in your dressing room so long, I was beginning to worry.” Mary said when her husband finally appeared in their bedchamber.

“So sorry, darling, but I promise it was for good reason. I was having the most enlightening chat with Richard.”

“I’m glad to see you and your new valet get on so well. Molesley was nice, but I sometimes wondered if he’d ever interacted with another human before.”

Nodding in agreement at his wife’s comment, Matthew began to recount Richard’s story for her.

When he’d finished, she looked nearly as panicked as he had when he’d heard it.

“And this is the doctor Papa has hired to treat Sibyl?” Mary nearly screamed.

When Matthew shook his head “yes”, she took it as permission to continue spiraling into fear for her sister.

“We have to tell him, and the earliest possible opprotunity!”

Putting his hand through his wife’s hair in a calming gesture, Matthew tried to soothe her worries while panicking himself.

“Darling, I couldn’t agree more. We’ll find Robert tomorrow morning, as soon as he wakes up. Don’t worry, I’m certain the second he hears what Richard told me, he won’t let Tapsell near Sybil. I’m certain Clarkson won’t mind stepping in at the last minute.”

Her worries not quite gone, but recognizing there was nothing she could do until morning, Mary fell into a restless sleep.

————————————-

Meanwhile, in the servants hall, Richard was replaying his conversation with Matthew in his head when His Lordship’s valet walked in.

“Mr. Barrow,” Richard greeted the man whom he’d taken to calling “Thomas” in his head. Her Ladyship’s maid had pulled him aside his first week on the job, and told him that, as one of the longest serving staff members, getting into Thomas’ good graces would help him advance at the Abbey. Richard hadn’t needed to be told twice, and he was glad that he’d taken her advice. Thomas was now his closest friend at Downton (and if he spent a good chunk of time gauging if more than that was possible, that was his own business).

“Mr. Ellis,” Thomas greeted in return, “how are you?”

“I might have just gotten myself in a bit of trouble with His Lordship.”

“You? What could you have said to get yourself into trouble?”

“I was chatting with Mr. Crawley earlier, and I ended up telling him about a friend of my sister’s, who passed in childbirth. It turned out the doctor who failed her is the same one His Lordship hired to treat Lady Sibyl.”

When Thomas burst out laughing, Richard’s concerned expression turned confused.

“What is amusing about that?”

“I’m sorry,” Thomas said, catching his breath, “It’s just that, His Lordship forgave me for literally stealing from him numerous times, is currently fighting to overturn his valet’s conviction for murder, and his wife has a maid who would be more at home as one of Notre Dame’s gargoyles. I truly doubt that his son-in-law’s valet warning him about a potential threat to the life of his beloved youngest daughter is gonna be the straw that breaks his back.”

Realizing from Thomas’ words that he was being a tad ridiculous, Richard sighed.

“I just didn’t want him to stress out unnecessarily”

“I promise, when Mr. Crawley tells him your story, he’ll be grateful to you.”

————————————

The following morning, both Matthew and Thomas’ predictions from the previous night came true.

Mary and Matthew had corned Robert the second they saw him, and told him everything. Robert cursed, made them promise not to tell his mother, and cancelled Sir Phillip’s services immediately, and asked Cora to telephone Clarkson, which she happily did.

And, that afternoon, Richard jumped to his feet when the Earl of Grantham himself appeared in the servants hall.

“Your Lordship,” he greeted.

“Ellis, I wanted to come down and personally offer my thanks. Your conversation with Matthew yesterday evening may have saved my daughter a traumatic experience, and I am very grateful.”

“Thank you, Your Lordship. I’m glad I was able to help.”

______________

This is my first attempt at any type of fic since my ancient Wattpad account, and it is probably very bad, but I hope it was at least cute. Possibly more snippets from this au coming if anyone likes it

[maemi324]

Mafia

Hey there friends! It’s been a hot minute since I’ve actually posted something. 

Let me just say, Happy Holidays! I hope you are having a wonderful and safe holiday. 

This fic was inspired and written for @butterscotchbaku​ and @in-this-house-we-stan-izuku​ based on some requests I had written in, as well as just ideas passed back and forth. 

I hope you two are having a wonderful day and may that continue into the new year! Thank you for all you’ve written and done!

Pairing: Izuku/Fem.Reader

Warnings: mentioned beatings, mentioned assault but nothing described in detail. all very vague. uhh violence, or hinted at violence. Edited only by me, so i may have missed something.

 I think that’s it. 

I hope you two enjoy this! 

Cigarette smoke hung heavily in the room, walls filled with generic knickknacks and warm colored walls gave the meeting a false sense of pleasantness. To any unsuspecting person, this was any other meeting room, one long table with rounded edges and somewhat padded chairs, the head of the table having the one most plush. 

Hell, even the people occupying them would have anyone turning up their nose in disinterest. Nothing but business men and women in dark, smart looking suits.

But you knew better. Sitting at the head was the infamous Izuku Midoriya, known under the name of Deku, direct descendent of the greatest Mafia leader Japan had ever seen; All Might. 

And here you sat, comfortably in Izuku’s lap, your temple pressed against his neck as you listened to his voice rumble on towards the other members. You were hardly paying attention to what was being said as you glanced around the room to the others.

Katsuki Bakugou- Dynamite, or TNT if you were feeling particularly cheeky. He was head of interrogation, finding out who knew what and definitely had too many ways of making people talk, and only one sure fire way of keeping them quiet. 

Todoroki Shouto- Bakugou’s counter in interrogation. He was mainly there to keep Bakugou from killing every target. He could control his temper, sure, but Todoroki added a sense of cold unease to their targets. He was effective against the folks who didn’t rise to Bakugou’s jabs and threats. He tapped the ashes of his cigarette into the small dish provided.

Kirishima Eijirou- Red Riot-another strong man and a third in the interrogation squad. He kept Bakugou from grousing the entire time, as well as leveling the two tempers in the group. Though he was a strong man, he was also incredibly sweet. You recalled that, while dealing with some unsavory characters that had children- typically rescuing the children at the other parents pleading- Red Riot was a favorite with them, his bright smile and charm keeping them distracted as Bakugou and Todoroki dealt with the problem.

Iida- Ingenium-was the getaway driver, best out of the best. He somehow always managed to get them out as quickly as possible while still following the law. It made losing the police all the easier. Ochaco Uraraka, or Uravity, was the treasurer, in charge of keeping account of all of the mafia’s funds, who owed them money and why. For more problematic clients, she was a stickler down to the very last penny. 

There were others, but those were just the ones in the room at the moment. You sighed softly, adjusting in Izuku’s lap. Someone at the end of the table was pleading for something. You could tell by the unimpressed glare on Izuku’s face that it was going south for whoever this was- a blond man with an inferiority complex for certain.

You glanced down at your left hand, engagement ring shimmering brightly despite the warm fluorescent lights. It wasn’t very large, an emerald surrounded by diamonds. He’d only given it to you a few days ago. On a rare day, you were able to go out with him in public-the benefit of a mask and some contacts while on the job- you had decided to flit about a few museums. The ring caught your eye immediately, the prized possession of some rich so and so, dating back who knows how long in their family.

Maybe it was because of how brightly it matched your lovers eyes, but the ring called to you. You didn’t mention a peep to your lover however. You knew he would have taken it right then and there. You rather liked coming to this museum, with added security after a robbery, you would have to frequent it less.

Your lovestruck fool of a man decided to do it anyway. He’d said that the plan went off without a hitch, though the smudges of dirt and a bit of blood- not his own- said otherwise. At the time, you had to question why, sure he’d robbed plenty of other places, gifts for trips that took longer than expected, but a place that you favored going?

“I’m just crazy about you doll, You deserve the best of the best. The way you eyed that ring, I knew there’d be nothing else that would be more perfect for you. But, it’s not just because you fancied it that I got it for you. We’re together, we always will be...but I want to make it more official. I wanna be yours forever, and I want you to be mine. What do you say doll? Marry me?”

You couldn’t say yes fast enough.

A gentle nudge to your shoulder brought you out of your daze. You looked up to the love of your life.

“What do you think dollface? What should we do with Monama?” 

You sat up in his lap, watching as the blond shivered in his spot, a smirk on your fiance’s face hidden by his fist as he leaned against it.

“Monama, what is it he did again?”

“Well Doll, he owes us money. He swears he’s good for it, but this is the third time he hasn’t been good for it.What should we do with this foolish, foolish man?”

Monama...ah yes now you remembered him! A little wanna be Mafia leader who went under when he ran out of money. He placed bets with other rival gangs against Deku, proclaiming that not only could he and his group get it done, but get it done better. 

There were times when they had, though just barely. It was hardly enough to keep a betting pool aimed against Deku however. Everyone but him seemed to know it. The overconfidence in his group and underestimating Deku lead to his downfall when Deku pulled off an impossible mission without even having to undo his tie.

When these gangs came to collect, he begged Deku to allow him and his group safety, help paying off the debt. Deku agreed, but in return, he had a year to earn the money back, only adding interest when the blond began getting too cocky. 

“I just need a little more time! A day, give me a day!” he pleaded, voice shrill and desperate. 

You winced, brows scrunched in annoyance.

Honestly, you didn’t care for Monama, and weren’t all too excited for his continued presence in the gang. You looked down at your nails idly.

“Have Dynamite follow him for a day then. If whatever magic he seems to think he can pull off, doesn’t in fact pull off, then he can have fun beating the change out of him. Or, whoever he’s seeing to get the money can pay it” You figured, even though he’d be annoyed at the idea of tailing that worm, Bakugou would have a good time beating it out of him.

Izuku gave Bakugou a look, who only snarled in response. A tilt of his head and Bakugou got up from his chair, footsteps heavy as he grabbed Monama by the arm, “Let’s get this over with you pathetic extra,” rolling his eyes as Moana sagged in slight relief, gratitude spilling from his lips.

Izuku held up a hand, “Let Red Riot escort him out for now. We have some business that you’d like to be here for I’m sure”

Bakugou’s eyes widened a fraction, a grin making its way onto his face as he shoved Monama towards Kirishima.

As Bakugou took his seat and Kirishima exited with Monama in tow, another man entered the room, a small man with purple hair. You recognized him as Mineta’s father. His son’s invention, a sticky substance that rendered anything in its grip as good as stuck, was what kept him in the group. What had him on thin ice however, was his treatment of the women in the group, all things he learned from his father. Izuku left Iida to beat it out of him however he saw fit. All it would take is one more strike. 

His father, however, was all out of strikes. The way he leered at you and the other girls had you all walking on eggshells around him. You only came forward to Izuku about it after you and the others had confided in one another. He had groped at you after a party the gang had thrown. It was the first and last time he’d ever made a physical move towards you.

You could feel the man's lecherous eyes on you, making you lean into Izuku, his body blocking the man's gaze. 

While you told him your story, Izuku’s face had remained calm, though the cup he had been holding shattered into thousands of pieces. He knew there were rumors about the senior, but to have it be found out as fact, and not just rumors from other gangs... He was furious, you knew that, and you knew somehow, someway, that Minoru senior would pay.

“Doll, why don’t you go talk to YaoMomo about wedding dresses, hm?” You nodded your head, though hesitant to leave the safety and comfort of his lap. You knew you were safe with Izuku by your side, but that didn’t mean you were comfortable passing by this...Disgusting being. His gaze softened and he hooked his arm around yours, escorting you personally towards the door.

Izuku tilted your head into a sweet kiss, his thumb rubbing comforting circles onto your side.

Izuku opened the door for you, but before you left, he kissed you again, deeper, sweeping away the sickly feeling of being watched with his tongue as it danced with yours, one hand cupping your jaw to pull you close.

He pulled away all too soon for your tastes, hand leaving your jaw, “Actually, maybe talk with her about the cake too, this may take a bit...” he turned away from you, eyes turning cold and jaded as the door closed.

“It’s about to get ugly in here”

[jolynej]

Hello!! I love the aesthetic of your blog 😳 is it alright if I ask for headcanons of La Squadra (If it’s too much, Risotto, Prosciutto and Ghiaccio are fine!!) with a really head strong and stubborn S/o? Like on the outside they act like they think they’re better than everyone, but really they’re just a huge dork on the inside ☺️

thank you very much!! and it’s not too much at all :) i’m not sure whether or not you wanted an s/o who was involved in the gang or not, so i did a mix of both! i hope that you like it!

Risotto, Prosciutto, and Ghiaccio With a Stubborn and Headstrong, but Dorky S/O

his somehow turned into more of a drabble than actual headcanons, woops! hope you don’t mind that it also became a little more hurt/comfort!!

Due to his position as the leader of the group, he’s used to having to work with strong personalities as each of his subordinates stand out in their own ways, and he’s appreciative of all of their strengths — yours being no exception. He also makes it a priority to become familiar with his squad member’s weaknesses so that he is better able to assign them missions and implement training regimens to improve their skills.

As his partner, he has an extra watchful eye over you and is quick to point out mistakes and areas for improvement, but don’t misunderstand his blunt remarks as ones of distaste. He owes a debt of gratitude to your confidence and your tenacity as it has come to his aid on multiple occasions, but he’s an extremely perceptive man and can pick up on little things about you that would usually go unnoticed by others. He’s a quiet, introverted man, and by nature a good listener. He picks up on little tells and mannerisms of yours and eventually pieces a few things together.

It’s after a particularly rough mission that he is able to prove his little hypothesis. You’d barely escaped with your life after the confrontation with your target went sour due to you pulling a risky move that was almost certain to end in failure; it was a complete deviation from the plan that Risotto had gone over with you. He was upset, and you were, too, as the target had gotten away, but instead of reacting in anger and immediately enacting some sort of punishment, he looked over at you from across his desk where you sat with a pout and glassy eyes, eking out an uncharacteristic apology instead of a snide remark or even an eyeroll.

He’ll still have to reprimand you for screwing up the job, but for now he was pleased to see a more vulnerable, honest side to you. “You understand that what you did was wrong, don’t you cara/o?” He looks over at you, torn between comforting you and scolding you.

Risotto is so glad to see you becoming more open and comfortable around him, but he doesn’t say much as he doesn’t want to scare you off. Instead, that evening, after you’ve been informed of the oncoming dread that is the punishment of both paperwork duty and a boring stakeout mission, he holds you a little bit closer and tells you that he loves you, which is his way of telling you that it’s okay to not be strong sometimes.

He knows that tomorrow you will bounce back to your usual self, dorky jokes and all, but for now, he’s more than content to share this private moment with you and fall asleep with your head resting on his chest, lulling you both to sleep with his hand lazily rubbing your back.

Dating a man in the mafia would be taxing on anyone, but if anyone could deal with, Prosciutto thought, it would be you — his strong, cocky, dorky partner

His views are a little more traditional, and I can see him as someone who really likes the idea of caring for others and being a provider — and he’s more than happy and willing to provide that — but at the end of the day, there’s nothing better than coming home to someone like you who isn’t afraid to challenge him and will speak their mind. He already has to pretty much babysit Pesci half the time he’s at work, and the other men can act immature and really get on his nerves, so it’s just nice to have someone he doesn’t have to put on airs around, and he finds your sassiness sexy

He worries about you, of course, but he’s well aware that you are someone who can and will put up a fight and not let yourself be taken down without resistance. Also, he is a little more inclined to share certain aspects of his job with you, as he believes that you have the emotional capacity to handle some of the more grim details — even though he still leaves the majority of it out for your sake. He likes that he doesn’t have to sugarcoat things with you, and it’s good for him to have someone to talk to

Your stubbornness and arrogance can lead to arguments, but more often than not they end up with one of you kissing the other or the cliché of daring the other person to shut up. At first, things were a little more explosive, as he is a very dominating person and was not at all used to being challenged in that sort of way, but as your relationship deepened, he grew to like your little spats and that cute glint in your eyes when you become angry

Because of your stubbornness, it may be more difficult for you to apologize, but he won’t hesitate to call you out and tell you that you’re in the wrong, and he’s very calm and level-headed about doing so. When he’s in the wrong however, he usually comes around and apologizes rather quickly, but he can be kind of petty about it. He does make it up to you though, always. One of the benefits of him being a little old-fashioned is that he’s very keen on the idea of not going to bed angry

The more caring, nurturing side of him finds your dorkiness endearing, and whether or not its a television series or movie that you’re geeking out over, or even just a goofy joke, he’s happy to indulge you and listen to what you have to say. He’s not always the most up-to-date on pop culture references or media, so he doesn’t always get what you’re talking about, but he loves you so it doesn’t really matter to him what you’re going on about (you could ramble about the history of something as inane as can openers and he’d still say “that’s interesting, Amore”) He’s a sucker for all things domestic, really

Now this relationship may be a little more turbulent then the others, as I can see the two of you being very loud, but it’s very sweet in its own way

He’s a huge hothead, and with your stubborn demeanor the two of you will most definitely butt heads, but his outbursts are something that you’ve come to expect and they’re never filled with any real malice — it’s just the way that he is. The rest of the gang like to tease you both about being an old married couple, and you think it’s cute, playfully tugging on his cheek while he’s fuming and Formaggio and Illuso are cracking up in the corner

Ghiaccio will be the type of boyfriend to feed into your ego and because you’re his s/o, everything has to be perfect for you, for you deserve nothing less in his eyes. He can and will chew out the waiter if you so much as comment on your food being dry or too salty or just not up to par

As far as your dorkiness is concerned, Ghiaccio may not always understand “what you’re going on about this time”, but he’ll still listen and try to indulge you with some commentary here and there, which will most likely come across to an unknown spectator as pure sass and displeasure, but you know better; the snark comes with the territory of dating the ice man -- and you love it

If he ever catches wind of someone making fun of you or even just making an offhand comment about you or something that you like to geek out over, then he has no qualms about going off on them

[theroyalsims]

HAPPY, HEALTHY, AND A SOON-TO-BE-GRADUATE - A BEAMING PRINCESS ELEANORE LIKE YOU’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE

It seems like it was just yesterday when The Queen’s second child was all over the news for her incredibly extravagant shopping sprees and hard-partying ways, but look what the country side and a little bit of tough love has done for our Princess!

This morning, as the rest of Brindleton grasps with yesterday’s “big news” (a.k.a. the DNA test results), Princess E was having a wonderful time in lovely, rural Brindleford.  The Princess was spotted at Harlowe’s Bakery in the village, the very same one owned by her personal aide’s parents. This isn’t the first time Princess E was spotted in the little shop. In fact, she even brought her little sister, Princess Ingrid, to the bakery for her birthday brunch a few months ago.

HRH was accompanied by her ever-present personal aide, Clive. The two arrived on bikes, and were seen chatting and laughing throughout the trip. At some point, the Princess was even seen casually leaning her head on Clive’s shoulder, which has ignited speculations that the two are dating. But is this a date? The short answer? “No.”

(Above: A tender moment - Princess E casually lays her head on Clive’s shoulder while leaving the café.)

The trip to the bakery was apparently a “celebratory brunch” because the Princess got word that she has passed her subjects and is set to graduate next month. It can be recalled that HRH dropped out of uni only a semester away from graduation. After the whole party incident, The Queen and Prince Jacques decided that Princess E should be punished, and part of the “punishment” was being sent away to the country and finish her degree. However, if the photos are any indication, it looks like it wasn’t really much of a punishment after all!

(Above: The pair quite some time at the café, leaving at around noon, just as the skies grew dark and started to rain.)

So, if that’s the short answer, is there a long one? Well, yes. But that would still be a “no.” A source close to Princess E claims that she and Clive are simply friends, which is a level-up from their former employer-employee relationship:

“E has found a rock in Clive. She’s realised, being in Brindleford and away from her family, that Clive has always been a constant for her, and that he’s someone she trusts wholeheartedly. In him, he found a friend and a protector. She’s one of the very few people she feels she could be herself with. E has a tendency to put up a mask, a wall, and come up with a ‘persona.’ It’s her way of coping with the intrusion that comes with the life she was born into. However, with Clive and with some of her really close friends, we get to see the real E.”

And what about the young man? Is he, perhaps, hoping for something more?

“Clive knows where he stands. With the whole Adam debacle, he knows that there is a line he must never cross. He offers his services, his loyalty, and even his friendship, but he knows well enough that certain things are off limits. 

The good thing about Clive is that he’s a very smart man who knows his place. He graduated at the top of his class and he landed the high-profile palace job straight out of uni. He was actually one of Prince Jacques’ scholars via the Duke of Astor Awards. He got a full ride to a prestigious university with the help of the Royal Family, and I think he feels that he owes them a debt of gratitude. 

But don’t get me wrong. You’ve seen the photos. You’ve seen his yearning glances. Princess E, despite popular opinion, is not hard to like, and is even easier to love. She’s stunning and she’s actually nice. Plus, they’ve been spending a lot of time together. Even Clive’s family is smitten with Princess E. His parents cannot believe that the Princess E they know is the same person that was in almost every single tabloid many months ago.  

With how things are going for E and Clive, It’s inevitable that some feelings might develop, but of course, there’s the whole ‘line’ that must never be crossed.”

It isn’t just the Princess’ rumoured love life that has people talking. As HRH’s latest photos hit social media, people were quick to observe that Princess E seems to have gained some weight. 

(Above: Princess E keeps it trendy! Dressed perfectly for a day out on the bike, HRH opted for a monochromatic look with her designer jumper, pedal pushers and ballet flats.)

Dressed in a black jumper, black-and-white pedal pushers, and flats, it looks like HRH did, indeed, gain some weight but we think she looks absolutely stunning - perhaps even more beautiful, seeing how joyful she looks.

(Above: Princess E Then and Now. (L) HRH photographed arriving at a private club for an exclusive party. The evening ended in tears with the Princess dumped by her then-boyfriend, and embroiled in a huge scandal that angered both her parents and the whole of Brindleton. (R) Princess E today, looking like a completely different person - glowing and more youthful!)

The source further shares:

“She’s well aware that she’s gained a few pounds but she absolutely doesn’t care. She’s been looking back at some of her old photos and she realised that while she looked like she stepped out of a fashion magazine, she looked downright miserable in most of them. She realised that the lifestyle she had back then was centred on maintaining an image - her figure, her looks. Now, she’s focusing on her health and happiness.

In Brindleford, she found a routine, and she actually managed to surround herself with good people. Even her relationship with her Aunt Alice has improved tremendously. She’s happy. She’s very happy.”

(Above: Princess E flashes a wide smile! People were also quick to note that the Princess looks years younger without makeup!) 

There’s no doubt that HRH is happy! Just look at that smile! We couldn’t be prouder of you, Princess E! Oh, and congrats on conquering uni! We’re rooting for you!

[theriu]

Grace vs Works

The Bible tells us in no uncertain terms that we are saved by grace, not by works. (Ephesians 2:4-10) This means that Jesus did ALL the saving, and NOTHING we do can earn or “improve on” His gift of forgiveness and salvation from sin. We have only to accept His gift and give Him our hearts.

(For clarity, “grace” means the giving of good things that are not earned or deserved by the person receiving them. “Mercy” is withholding punishment or consequences that ARE deserved.)

But at the same time, Jesus makes it clear that Christians SHOULD do good works. In fact, He tells a story of the end of time, when those who did good would be rewarded while those who did not “never knew me.” (Matthew 25:31-46) We as Christians are expected to do His will, which means good works of kindness, compassion, love, justice, etc.

This often raises the question: how can both of these things be true?

Here is a simplified explanation that I hope will help clarify this important issue for someone:

- If you are doing good works AS A DEMONSTRATION OF YOUR LOVE AND GRATITUDE FOR CHRIST AND HIS SAVING WORK, that is a natural byproduct of faith. When we truly have faith in the Lord, He changes our hearts to be more like His, and that means an increasing desire to do good for others and share His love. Think of a child doing the dishes or weeding the garden for their mom or dad, just to surprise them and see them smile after coming home from a long day’s work. Their reward is pleasure at the happiness they brought the person they love. This is the kind of good work God calls for us to do, and He delights in helping us do them!

But if we DON’T do good works, if we simply don’t care and treat Christ’s salvation as a Get Out Of Jail Free card, this is a massive red flag that our faith is not genuine. We may claim to be a Christian but not have the salvation that comes from surrendering our lives to Christ and accepting our need for His forgiveness. If we claim we are saved but care nothing about our Savior and His commands, we have not actually accepted the grace that saves us. We are no better off than those who honestly declare they don’t believe in God - in fact, our self-delusion may mean we are worse off than them.

- If you are doing good works TO EARN CREDIT OR DEBT FROM GOD OR SOCIETY, you are not demonstrating faith. This is the kind of toxic do-goodness that only focuses on YOU. This person EXPECTS God or people to admire and praise and bless them - to be seen as better than other people - and if they don’t get those results, they are angry and resentful. They may act kind and holy, but they are motivated by sinful pride.

Or there are those who may do public good to cover up less visible sins in their lives, like tithing extra while verbally abusing the family at home, or volunteering for nursery duty while spreading vicious gossip - or performing the works of a pastor while committing adultery with a church member. Think of a child who is always sweet when the adults are around so that the adults won’t believe it when other kids say that child is mean and nasty to them.

Those who do good works for these reasons are showing a LACK of faith in Christ as their Lord and Savior, the master of their lives. They show a lack of recieving God’s saving grace, and will find that the “debt” they thought God owed them is worthless at Heaven’s gates. The state of our hearts might be hidden from other people here on Earth, but it will be laid bare for all to see when we meet God face to face.

- I want to add something for those like me, who may love the Lord but worry they aren’t “doing enough” to show it. First, let me assure you that the fact you even HAVE that desire to do better is a sign of the Lord’s work in your life! Someone at bible camp told me that as a kid, and it has been a source of comfort to me for years, even when I struggle.

Please understand that only the Holy Spirit can make the changes in our hearts that are needed to make our feelings line up with the good works He calls us to do. We can’t force our subconscious selves to be naturally more godly or patient or faithful than we currently are; only the Holy Spirit can do this. But there are two ways we can help:

First, we can ask the Lord to change our hearts so that we WANT to do the things we know we should be doing! I have found this really does help! God delights in answering prayers for better heart motives and stronger faith and more wisdom. The answer may not always come in the form we expect (and the answer may be harder to deal with than we want), but He WILL give us opportunities and guidance and STRENGTH to develop these good things in our hearts! When we choose to trust the Holy Spirit to make these changes in our hearts, we give Him room to do what He already wants to do for us!

Second (but this is really just an extension of the last point), we can choose to DO the good things, even when we don’t feel like doing them. Because sometimes we think we have to “feel” a certain way to do good, or that a good work doesn’t count if our feelings don’t line up. C.S. Lewis talks about this in his book Mere Christianity: it is the act of putting on the mask of Christ, “pretending” to be like Him. Not pretending as those doing good works for praise pretend, but pretending to OURSELVES. We pretend we ARE more patient, and act more patient towards those who annoy us. We pretend we ARE more helpful, and act like a helpful person. And if we do this long enough, we will find that our faces have “grown to fit the mask” - we will become more like Christ simply by acting like Him and letting the Holy Spirit make what started as pretend become a reality.

I hope this is helpful to someone out there! I am not a Bible scholar or anything so formal, but I’ve found that the Lord grants understanding at unexpected times and in unexpected ways, and He can use any of us. Keep going strong!

If you aren’t a Christian but are thinking about it, or if you have always thought yourself a Christian but wonder if you actually have submitted to Christ as God and accepted His salvation, please reach out. I am happy to try and help, and there are many places online and IRL with people and resources that God can use to get you the answers you need. And above all, read His Word and pray for His help. I promise you that He will give it. =)