#if he makes a habit of this he shall perish

[ethicaltreatmentofcowplants]

previously I was logged in as Lou when Amelie autonomously cashed in their date for the Spice Festival. While my last two brain cells were out to lunch and forgot to screencap it, her text said something to the effect of "loads of free food." Clearly she knows just how to hook a growing werewolf.

Oh, and look who else other than this sad sop once again "coincidentally" decided to show up. Big seester.

(this was not meant to be long but it is, I am so sorry)

Much like Rory, Lou had gleaned Amelie's lack of worldliness in certain matters and had planned to play it cool anyway, but Lilith's presence added an extra incentive. He therefore went for what he hoped was a 'subtle' approach.

LOU: Ooof my left arm is so sore I did like 500 reps earlier lemme just rest it here for a minute... AMELIE: *reflects on how even she knows this is a line*

Someone else also running interference - at least when it came to me getting screencaps of this historic event - was Faiz.

You're cute but you need to get your stupid hair and your stupid jawline out of here, stat. Seriously, look at just how in the way you are. Literally no one wants you here. I didn't even know who you were until I clicked on you.

(Unfortunately since I was logged into the one character who I couldn't use vampiric abilities and compel him to vamoose, we were stuck with him. Then I had to save and restart the game since my screencaps stopped working. At least I know who I'm holding responsible.)

Lilith must have said something to Faiz because when I returned, he was gone (never to be seen again 🧛‍♀️). And everyone else was back to their regular scheduled programming. Especially Lou.

LOU: Sooo, you got any plans after this? Like dragging a helpless yet incredibly handsome young werewolf back to your bat cave and having your wicked way with m- him? AMELIE: We don't have bat caves. LOU: Oh right, my bad. Coffin then? AMELIE: We don't all have coffins either. LOU: *apologises and internally decides to stick to making wolf eyes for the next while*

The first date jitters appeared to have passed when Amelie let something slip about her past (or lack thereof) in certain areas and Lou inserted his paw into his mouth - big time.

LOU: Wait what - you've never? AMELIE: ... LOU: Oh my plumbob you are so precious! I just want to wrap you up in cellophane and keep you forever. Uh, except maybe not 'cellophane' since it's not really ecologically friendly. Save Sulani and all that. AMELIE: ... LOU: And you'd need to breathe and stuff. Wait, could you even breathe through cellophane? Do you even need to breathe? With the whole 'undead' thing and stuff. AMELIE: It had never occurred to me that this was anything to be embarrassed about. Until now. So, thank you. LOU: .... LOU: (Oh sh*t I am such a dick and an idiot I am going to be apologising to her forever can Greg just burrow his way out of the ground and swallow me whole now please and thank you-)

He wisely elected to change the subject, only circling back to it much, much later.

LOU: Hey so, I'm sorry for making you feel uncomfortable earlier. It's not even all that unusual. And it's literally like no one else's business, you know? People get so hung up on shi- stuff that affects absolutely no one else sometimes. AMELIE: An acceptable apology, but continue. LOU: And well, you're so cultured and sophisticated and stuff that I sometimes forget just how sheltered you were, I guess? The whole 'allergic to garlic and sunshine' thing probably didn't help you get out all that much either. And look at you. All those Copperdale boys would have been too tongue-eyed to even ask you to the Prom, no matter how much they would've wanted to. AMELIE: I... was actually homeschooled. LOU: Well, see? It totally makes sense given how you've had to grow up. And this is just our first date. If we end up heading there then we can take our sweet time, y'know? I just want you to have fun and get to know each other better. There's no rush.

Still later, he revisited his apology.

LOU: So I was an idiot. AMELIE: Just a little. LOU: More than a little, I'd say. [...] What's your policy on second dates with idiots? AMELIE: It depends on the idiot in question. LOU: So there's this one idiot. Y'know, about 'yea' high, not the sharpest tool in the box although he is sometimes a tool. But he has great hair and fantastic taste in rock music and lady vampires. That kind of idiot, maybe? AMELIE: Oh, alright then. I suppose. AMELIE: *giggles at the expression his face* LOU: Wow, you really left me hanging for a minute there, huh? AMELIE: Consider it payback for earlier...

Still later (and after some much better vibes, possibly some 'juice' too):

LOU: I really really like you, Mademoiselle Vatore. AMELIE: We say 'signorina' where my family is from. LOU: Signorina Vatore? Then I really really like her too. Whoever she is. You got a number for her or something? AMELIE: You really are such a joker. LOU: But you like it, don't you? AMELIE: A second date would offer more conclusive evidence. LOU: A second date it is then.

The rest of the date went more smoothly. Perhaps because another strummer had replaced Lilith, and thus Lou was no longer constantly misplacing his 'head to mouth' filter out of attempts at humour to mask his sheer terror.

Much like Cinderella's pumpkin, however, the festival ran out of time, leaving the pair to go their separate ways. For now.

LOU: I'll be seeing you later, signorina...

Ugh.

(They talk way too much in my head so you may as well suffer along with me. And while I would like to say that we'll be spared this in the future, they have agreed to a second date. Have a good timezone, wherever you are.)

[thebrickinbrick]

Night Begins to Descend Upon Grantaire, Part 4

“Matelote is homely!" he cried: "Matelote is of a dream of ugliness! Matelote is a chimæra. This is the secret of her birth: a Gothic Pygmalion, who was making gargoyles for cathedrals fell in love with one of them, the most horrible, one fine morning. He besought Love to give it life, and this produced Matelote. Look at her, citizens! She has chromate-oflead-colored hair, like Titian's mistress, and she is a good girl. I guarantee that she will fight well. Every good girl contains a hero. As for Mother Hucheloup, she's an old warrior. Look at her moustaches! She inherited them from her husband. Α hussar indeed! She will fight too. These two alone will strike terror to the heart of the banlieue. Comrades, we shall overthrow the government as true as there are fifteen intermediary acids between margaric acid and formic acid; however, that is a matter of perfect indifference to me. Gentlemen, my father always detested me because I could not understand mathematics. I understand only love and liberty. Grantaire, the good fellow. Having never had any money, I never acquired the habit of it, and the result is that I have never lacked it; but, if I had been rich, there would have been no more poor people! You would have seen! Oh, if the kind hearts only had fat purses, how much better things would go! I picture myself Jesus Christ with Rothschild's fortune! How much good he would do!

Matelote, embrace me! You are voluptuous and timid ! You have cheeks which invite the kiss of a sister, and lips which claim the kiss of a lover."

“Hold your tongue, you cask!" said Courfeyrac.

Grantaire retorted: “I am the capitoul' and the master of the floral games!”

Enjolras, who was standing on the crest of the barricade, gun in hand, raised his beautiful, austere face. Enjolras, as the reader knows, had something of the Spartan and of the Puritan in his composition. He would have perished at Thermopyla with Leonidas, and burned at Drogheda with Cromwell.

“Grantaire," he shouted, "go get rid of the fumes of your wine somewhere else than here. This is the place for enthusiasm, not for drunkenness. Don't disgrace the barricade!"

This angry speech produced a singular effect on Grantaire. One would have said that he had had a glass of cold water flung in his face. He seemed to be rendered suddenly sober.

He sat down, put his elbows on a table near the window, looked at Enjolras with indescribable gentleness, and said to him :

"Let me sleep here."

"Go and sleep somewhere else," cried Enjolras.

But Grantaire, still keeping his tender and troubled eyes fixed on him, replied: "Let me sleep here, until I die."

Enjolras regarded him with disdainful eyes: "Grantaire, you are incapable of believing, of thinking, of willing, of living, and of dying."

Grantaire replied in a grave tone: "You will see.”

He stammered a few more unintelligible words, then his head fell heavily on the table, and, as is the usual effect of the second period of inebriety, into which Enjolras had roughly and abruptly thrust him, an instant later he had fallen asleep.

[marengogo]

6 : “Happy Singles Day! …” Mistakenly Thought Marengo

Listening to a Love Wins All x BTS love songs playlist 

[Music is a very big part of my life and I’m MOSTLY INCAPABLE of writing without music, so I just thought I'd share what I am listening to while writing this]

–🐺–🐺–🐺–

Hello my dearest Gurls, Bois, Enbys and everyone in-between 💜 and

HAPPY SINGLES DAY!

… not.

Singles day is actually November 11, as in 11/11, as in 1 - 1 - 1 - 1, as in single, single, single and; SINGLE. LONG TIME AGO, a very young-uni-student-Marengo, somehow, mistakenly read today to be singles day, but in fact today is Singles Awareness Day 🤡LOL. So the joke is on me, but matter 👏🏾 does 👏🏾 not 👏🏾! Marengo shall privately keep celebrating Singles Day on the 15th of February because every time she had, she did on today’s date. Granted, I hadn’t had to celebrate it for a long-long minute, but … here I am in 2024.

Granted I’m a bit rusty but, what I always used to do, without fail was:

Buy Salted Caramel & Rose macarons from Pierre Marcolini

Buy a very expensive bottle of red wine

Watch Magic Mike XXL

Haven’t got around watching Magic Mike XXL yet as I’m here writing to you all duh, but here is a picture of the first 2 points.

The bottle didn't come with that neck piece, I put that there because you could see me in the reflection; don't mess with my camera game! 😎

So before anybody starts, I’m not celebrating today because I’m bitter at people who are in love or a couple. I might have been, A LONG TIME AGO, when I started celebrating this day, but as I grew up, it became more of a luxurious and pampering habit, particularly once I realised, and gradually understood, just how beautiful love actually is. And then, when it became my time to experience it 🎊🎉🪄, yeah … LOVE IS A BEAUTIFUL THING. In fact, I actually love LOVE. I love watching people fall in love, I love just the feeling of love itself, you could even say that I love the thought of a love potential, just as much as I love the potential of a love thought … 😜.

But just like a beautiful rose, love can hurt, no matter how careful, unexpected/unseen thorns can still get you. Yet, you shouldn't hate the rose, right? “I gotta be more careful …” that should be the brains immediate reaction, but sometimes, the amygdala works real hard, with unpaid overtime, keeping us away from roses until we figure out how to better tackle them, and some other times, it just makes us give up on roses entirely, which is a shame but it is what it is sometimes, because roses are really so so so precious, no matter what your favourite flower might happen to be. My favourite flowers are Forget-me-nots, but I will never deny the charm of a rose and I’ve learned to not hate them through time, even when, or even though, I might be deadass afraid of them.

Falling in love is like deciding to take care of your own personal rose/s. You will naturally like many different flowers and will naturally nurture them, rightfully so. Yet, at the same time, there might come a time when you’ll desire to also cherish in having a rose. Some might want roses to boast at their beauty, some simply like a challenge, but all in all, for many, if they could only manage to take care of even just one singular rose, for as long as they possibly can, without it dying; they’d consider it a great achievement and I'd agree. Roses don’t smell like boo-boo, but without LEC (Love, Effort and Care) they are indeed hard to keep, and will quickly perish.

… So what does this have to do with Singles / Singles Awareness Day?! Bitch you are making me feel much worse than before! Like STFU FR. There is a reason why I watch Magic Mike XXL. I really don’t give two shits about the first magic Mike, like I don’t even remember it. Yet XXL ⚠️SPOILER ALERT⚠️ Has as a main plot the main character not ending with whom he thought was the love of his life, right from the start, and instead discovering the value of having a solid community and believing in one’s self ⚠️ END OF SPOILER ⚠️ helps me remind myself that if I am unable to find a rose to take care of, or if I am not ready to do so either, I should remember that I myself am a rose and I should treat myself as such; with love, effort and care.

So today isn't a day where I hate those who have found and are bravely keeping love. No. Today is a day where I think of what could be, mourn what could have been and remember that the me of now also deserves love in the form of macrons, expensive wine and a feel good movie. So if you are single, have been for a while, or always have been, try not to obsess over having that garden of roses. Take care of your flowers first, make sure they are healthy! I’ve neglected “my forget-me-nots” for a bit too long now, so I have some cathcin gup to do, and don’t forget you are a rose yourself; take good care of yourself, be kind to yourself; love yourself. 

Always respectfully yours,

Marengo

@ejassy @chikooritajjk @stormblessed95 Thank you so much and I love you, my unique flowers.

[just-a-carrot]

Some Genzy headcanons:

-If living together, the first thing that Iggy does (if Genzou is already awake and out of bed) is look for him. It's a subconscious thing he does automatically, but the sight of him always warms his heart.

-Iggy sometimes (AND AFTER MUCH INTERNAL DEBATE) does small little acts of physical affection like giving Genzou a kiss on his forehead or reaching his hand to give it a small squeeze as 'good morning'/'good night' gestures.

-The rest of the time, after Iggy has made clear he's okay with it, Genzou is the one who initiates those little acts of affection... occasionally with a side of cheesy commentary.

-Most of their time together is spent with idle conversation as they engage in small acts of physical affection; arm wrapped around the other's shoulder, if it's Meow Wonderland they may be scratching behind the other's ears, etc.

-When they go out they-- probably without realizing it-- end up going to the same few places over-and-over. Iggy's a being of habit and Genzou's line of thought is probably "what has Iggy enjoyed" and then the cycle repeats. If they notice though, it becomes a small running joke between the two.

WEEPING CRYING COLLAPSING DEFENESTRATING MYSELF

THESE ARE TOO CUTE I SHALL PERISH??????

AHHHHHHH This is filling my head with the sweetest most wonderful mental images,,,, 😭💕

I love the cute little displays of affection. Thinking about them doing those cute little sweet things and just like being so soft and sweet with each other is killing me softly..... sigh....

That last point especially is making me tear up a little bit GUHHHH THEY WOULD DEFINITELY DO SOMETHING LIKE THAT 🥺

[mr-clow]

Ensemble 2: Greed and Politics. Part 2:

Six months had passed since the initial attack. Quatl was now on the podium, informing the other delegates that had joined the war the current situation.

Quatl - My speech has been sent previously to your translation units, any doubts please wait until the report is finished.

Quatl scanned the ample room that was barely occupied by fifteen different creatures. Al waiting to hear has been fished out of the war on humanity only for them to start arguing who would keep what.

Quatl - The war has progressed a lot faster than expected and with minimal losses. The first five standard rotations (Ten human days for the reader) were the cruellest, where we had the 90% of the total deaths and all the ships lost were during that period. After that, during the following 30 rotations, humanity retreated to the inner section of their system, fleeting with nothing more than what they could carry with their hands. As stated before, the humans cannot be trusted, so we established a barrier around the system, only stopping the ships that were trying to leave the system. No human ship tried to leave and we assume that at the moment more than 89.000.000.000.000 humans are enclosed in that area. Sanarin and KalHal governments had been sending food to support their allies and we cannot stop them by the same council rules that we established to protect ourselves. As for now, nothing more than food has been taken inside the system, so there is nothing to worry about.

Quatl watched as several symbols of approval crossed through the different species. They all chipped in prepared for war with one of the most vicious species on the galaxy and suddenly this overgrown monkeys had shown their cowardly side, nothing could have been better.

Quatl – Now, we know that humanity faced a civil war, the actual ruler is a female without any experience in combat and deemed mentally unstable. Their industry resources are lacking, they are short on fuel, and as a civilization right now they cannot distinguish top from bottom. We will have an additional meeting to speak about the profits of this war, but I assure you, the bounty is plentiful. I would prefer if we coordinate said meeting before the replacement delegate of the Spin’d arrives, as the latter abandoned her post.

Quatl went down of the podium as voices of approval follow him. After reviewing a couple of documents with the rest of the present members, he went to Kiltnik office, as he had some doubts that the smart Rajne might solve. He went in and clashed on the resting surface that was set up against the wall. Kiltnik looked at him and sat on the other side of the desk.

Kiltnik – I am really impressed, we made out with 37 worlds, five of them already terraformed, a few others habitable and all the rest are full of resources.

Quatl – Yes, humanity have a superb sense for valuables. Now that we have taken all of their colonies, the commerce inside the council will reach levels never seen before.

Kiltnik – The most important question still remains unanswered, though.

Quatl – Don’t worry, I have a plan to convince those brutes that the planets we are going to give them are worth more than all our share together.

Kiltnik – I don’t have any doubts about that. I am wondering what will we do with humanity.

Quatl – That will be easy, but we need time. Eventually the other species will stop sending aid and humanity will have to perish or drag to our feet. They already ran like scared prey to they own system and we blockaded them. Maybe the civil war will make the job for us and humanity will kill itself.

Kiltnik – That is a good prediction. Sadly we can not stop the Sanarin and KalHal from sending them aid, but maybe shall we convince them in other way?

Quatl – When they see the share they missed, they will start doubting. Meanwhile, they are not bothering us with other things, so let’s wait a bit more.

Kiltnik – That means that you are not here to talk about humans, nor the share, what do you need to know?

Quatl – You should learn to do some small talk, ease those around you to be more receptive.

Kiltnik – You know that is not the way of my people.

Quatl – Well, well, alright. Do you know what happened with Gnacht? The Spin’d wouldn’t change their delegate just because.

Kiltnik – As you might expect, their central government got an anonymous word of the opportunity they lost because of her decision. It was an obvious response. They should have been on our side, now she will pay for it.

Quatl – I enjoy easing people to submission as much as you enjoy destroying their careers. We make an excellent team. I hope we stay on the same side for the rotations to come.

Kiltnik – That word is empty, make sure I’ll be on your side and I’ll do the same.

Quatl – And you should work on your ability to read between lines, but yes, the same as I said. I have to leave, remember to hand me your selection for the loot.

Kiltnik made a gesture to leave Quatl at ease as he reached for the door. Quatl happily walk to his room, he would leave an absence note to dismiss every appointment that required his presence, and he would bury himself to enjoy a long-lasting and well-earned meal.

[basicsofislam]

ISLAM 101: REVERED PROPHETS: PROPHET MUHAMMAD’S ACHIEVEMENTS: Part 4

A leader must know his people thoroughly to educate them and lead them to realize a great cause. Alexis Carrel, a great twentieth-century French scientist, and philosopher, still describes human beings as unknown, as the most complex and intricate of creatures.17 However, Prophet Muhammad, upon him be peace and blessings, had such a comprehensive knowledge of his people that he could educate them in such a way that they transformed themselves willingly to realize his cause. Knowing how to act in every situation, his decisions never had to be changed or his appointments to office rescinded. He succeeded in bringing the most refined, well-mannered, and civilized society out of an extremely backward, uncivilized, and rough people.

Not only did he eradicate his people’s savage customs and immoral qualities to which they were addicted, but he also equipped and adorned these same desperate, wild, and unyielding peoples with all praiseworthy virtues and made them the teachers and masters of the world, including civilized nations. His domination was not outward; rather, he was the beloved of hearts, the teacher of minds, the trainer of souls, and the ruler of spirits.

Despite all the advanced techniques and methods, modern communities cannot remove permanently so small a vice-like smoking. However, Prophet Muhammad, upon him be peace and blessings, quickly removed many ingrained bad habits with little effort, and replaced them with good habits in such a way that they became inherent in his people’s very being. If people do not believe this, let them go to any part of the modern civilized world with hundreds of philosophers, sociologists, psychologists, pedagogues, and educators and see if they can achieve in one hundred years even one hundredth of what Prophet Muhammad, upon him be peace and blessings, achieved in a year in the uncivilized Arabia of fourteen centuries ago.

The Prophet met all of his detractors with a smile. When the Qurayshi leaders told Abu Talib to make his nephew abandon his mission, the Prophet answered:

O, uncle! Should they place the sun in my right hand and the moon in my left, so as to make me renounce this mission, I shall not do so. I will never give it up; either it will please God to make it triumph or I will perish in the attempt.

On another occasion, a deputation of the Qurayshi elite offered him all the worldly glory they could imagine if he would abandon his mission:

If you want wealth, we will amass for you as much as you wish; if you aspire to win honor and power, we are prepared to swear allegiance to you as our overlord and king; if you have a fancy for beauty, you shall have the hand of the most beautiful maiden of your own choice.

The terms would be extremely tempting for anyone, but they had no significance in the eyes of the Prophet. He responded:

I want neither wealth nor power. God has commissioned me as a warner to humanity. I deliver His Message to you. Should you accept it, you shall have felicity in this life and eternal bliss in the life Hereafter. Should you reject the Word of God, surely God will decide between you and me.

The faith, perseverance, and resolution with which he carried his mission to ultimate success prove the supreme truth of his cause. Had there been the slightest doubt or uncertainty in his heart, he could not have withstood the opposition that continued for twenty-one long years.

[skyriderwednesday]

Oranges and Glass Houses

“I see,” Vetinari said mildly, taking a small orange from somewhere unseen and rolling it between his palms. “Might it be that you are facing shortages?” --

Lord Vetinari does not interfere with guild business, guild business has a habit of interfering with itself. He merely... helps things along occasionally.

(G rated, 1100 words)

A man named Simpton, guild merchant and owner of the J.H. Simpton Shipping Company, was stood before the Patrician’s desk. To say that Vetinari had been listening to his complaints for the last half hour would be less than true. Rather he had been attentive to them, which often served just as well. “I see,” he said mildly, as Simpton rounded up his latest point. He took a small orange from somewhere unseen and rolled it between his palms. “Might it be that you are facing shortages?” “Err, could be, m’lord…” the merchant said, watching it. “If this continues…” Vetinari tilted his head slightly, beginning to peel the fruit. “I suppose you have ventured down all reasonable avenues of resolution?” “Pardon, sir?” “You have done all you can to solve the problem yourself?” “Oh, o-of course, m’lord. Been contacting people all up and down the chain of supply.” “And where does it appear the chain breaks?” The long strip of peel being removed by the Patrician’s capable fingers tore as if on cue. “Uh… well it all looks to be going as it should, m’lord, and then the ships are getting held in port, sir.” Vetinari paused in peeling his orange and raised an eyebrow. “Held in port where, exactly?” Simpton hesitated, “Quirm, sir.” “Could you not… and you understand that I am only speculating with this suggestion… leave the ships in Quirm and transport your goods the rest of the way into the city by road?” “Well… no, m’lord. It’s the Authority, it is.” “Ah,” Vetinari pulled the peeled fruit into halves. “Of course. Have port inspections been taking particularly long to your mind?” “They have, sir. I mean, I’ve had three shipments held for weeks and some of them are perishable.” “Oh dear,” he picked at the pith clinging to the segments. “Has the customs work been filed correctly? Properly declared perishable goods are usually seen more quickly.” “I’d assume so, sir, I’ve not been told any different.” Vetinari hummed, “No, I suppose not… Well, with the Guild’s blessing I shall write to Quirm inquiring after the holding of Ankh-Morpork merchant ships. In the meantime, perhaps you might alter your route to reach the city directly? I am no sailor, of course, but I am told it is only a short diversion.” “Thank you sir, I will consider that…” the merchant’s eyes trailed to the fruit again. Vetinari followed his gaze. “Is something the matter?” “No, sir, it’s just that oranges is one thing that’s not making it much here recently.” “Glass houses, Mr Simpton. The fruit is smaller in our climate, but quite sweet.” “I… see, m’lord. Are you… much involved with the growing, sir?” “No, sadly I haven’t the time. The gardeners give regular reports, however.” There was a knock at the door, Vetinari raised his voice towards it, “Come!” Drumknott looked into the room. “Sorry to intrude, sir, but I thought I would mention that Commander Vimes has arrived.” Simpton looked a shade nervous. “Thank you, Drumknott. Excellent timing in fact, Mr Simpton and I have just finished. Make a note that I am to write to Quirm’s Port Authority.” Drumknott nodded. “I will, sir.” “Thank you. Good afternoon, Mr Simpton.” 

If the timing of reports had been correct, Vetinari was quite sure that Simpton and Vimes would be passing each other on the stairs. He stood up to stretch and relieve the pressures of sitting for over half an hour by walking to the window momentarily, saw that the city remained how it was supposed to, and deposited the orange peel into the waste paper basket on his way back. He had sat down and was just quartering his orange halves when there was a familiar knock on the door. At his word, Vimes entered the room. “Ah, Vimes. Would you like to try some Ankh-Morpork orange? They are quite sweet,” Vetinari said, offering a quarter. Taking off his helmet, Vimes glanced at the orange slices and chose to ignore them. “Afternoon, sir. Working on the greenhouses is paying off then?” In that case, Vetinari would eat them himself. They were rather sweet, though just tart enough for his tastes. “Yes, they've come out rather well for a first crop.” “Hopper Simpton was just leaving.” “He was, complaining about his ships being held by Port Authorities in Quirm…” “Well he wants to stop smuggling tobacco with his grapefruits, doesn’t he?” “Indeed, Vimes.” “You’d think he’d have got the hint when he was accused of it in Pseudopolis, but of course the Guild paid his fine… really thought we could have got him that time.” “Unfortunately, Vimes, that would require him to have committed a crime in Ankh-Morpork.” “He is committing a crime, he’s selling smuggled goods.” “The Guild makes very sure that every shipment is properly licensed and marked by the time it is in the city, as well you know.” “I just wish we could bloody cut him off before they have the chance to--” Vetinari was smiling. “What? What’ve you done now?” His face straightened abruptly. “Done? Nothing.” “Alright,” Vimes said. “What are you doing?” “I am not in the process of doing anything, Vimes, nor have I done anything either. It might only be observed that Ankh-Morpork is a port city, and that special inspection rights are applied to ships which declare it as ‘home port’… additionally, in my obviously non-expert opinion, it makes very little sense to delay by docking in, for instance, Quirm, when one might otherwise save time and money by sailing directly to Ankh-Morpork. Do try some orange.” Vimes slowly broke into a smile. “I will, thank you sir.” “You are welcome, Vimes,” Vetinari said, passing him a quarter. “I recall Lady Sybil asking after the tomatoes?” Occupied with orange, it took Vimes a moment to reply. “…she was,” he said, swallowing. Vetinari nodded, steepling slightly sticky fingers. “They will expect you at the kitchen door this evening.” “Thank you, sir.” “I would like the bucket back this time, Vimes.” “Yes, I’ll bring the bucket back,” Vimes said, rolling his eyes. “There’ll be peas in it.” “Peas, Vimes?” “Yeah, that was the swap, your tomatoes for her peas.” “Ah, yes, I remember.” “Right. See you tomorrow,” he put his helmet back on. “Indeed. Thank you, Vimes.” The door closed. Vetinari sat back with one leg over the other to finish his orange as the city chimed the hour. Three o’clock, and he had to admit that he was quite pleased with the afternoon so far. It had been rather… to allow himself a self-congratulatory pun… fruitful.

[pandemoniumbroken]

MIND MIND MIND

Get To Know Your Creator In Your Own Mind And Know That No Matter Your Feelings About It He Cannot Lie So govern your Beliefs through His Word !

What you believe matters

What you believe will govern the decision that you make

What you believe will make

What you believe will govern your habits and what ever your decisions are will determine your future happiness and success.

What goes on inside of your mind governs the nature of your brain!

"Have this in your mind, which was also in Christ Jesus,"Philippians‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬ ‭

"“For who has known the mind of the Lord that he should instruct him?” But we have Christ’s mind."- ‭‭1 Corinthians‬ ‭2‬:‭16‬

"This I recall to my mind; therefore I have hope."- ‭‭Lamentations‬ ‭3‬:‭21‬

"Don’t follow your own mind and your strength to walk in the desires of your heart."Sirach‬ ‭5‬:‭2‬ ‭

"Let neither gluttony nor lust overtake me. Don’t give me over to a shameless mind."Sirach‬ ‭23‬:‭6‬

"Who has put wisdom in the inward parts? Or who has given understanding to the mind?"Job‬ ‭38‬:‭36‬

"Examine me, Yahweh, and prove me. Try my heart and my mind."Psalms‬ ‭26‬:‭2‬

"You will keep whoever’s mind is steadfast in perfect peace, because he trusts in you."Isaiah‬ ‭26‬:‭3‬

"You will destroy those who speak lies. Yahweh abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful man."Psalms‬ ‭5‬:‭6‬

"a false witness who utters lies, and he who sows discord among brothers."

- ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭6‬:‭19‬ ‭

"Don’t you add to his words, lest he reprove you, and you be found a liar."

- ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭30‬:‭6‬

"Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the Antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son."

- ‭‭1 John‬ ‭2‬:‭22‬

"But my soul hates three sorts of people, and I am greatly offended at their life: a poor man who is arrogant, a rich man who is a liar, and an old fool who is an adulterer."- ‭‭Sirach‬ ‭25‬:‭2‬

"But for the cowardly, unbelieving, sinners, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their part is in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”"Revelation‬ ‭21‬:‭8‬

"A false witness shall not be unpunished. He who utters lies shall perish."

- ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭19‬:‭9‬

"You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and doesn’t stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks on his own; for he is a liar, and the father of lies."John‬ ‭8‬:‭44‬

"A false witness shall not be unpunished. He who utters lies shall perish.Proverbs‬ ‭19‬:‭9‬ ‭

TruthSerum-WLP

[officialyourdailyinspiration]

The Sovereignty of God

1 Hear ye the word which Jehovah speaketh unto you, O house of Israel:

2 thus saith Jehovah, Learn not the way of the nations, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the nations are dismayed at them.

3 For the customs of the peoples are vanity; for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman with the axe.

4 They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not.

5 They are like a palm-tree, of turned work, and speak not: they must needs be borne, because they cannot go. Be not afraid of them; for they cannot do evil, neither is it in them to do good.

6 There is none like unto thee, O Jehovah; thou art great, and thy name is great in might.

7 Who should not fear thee, O King of the nations? for to thee doth it appertain; forasmuch as among all the wise men of the nations, and in all their royal estate, there is none like unto thee.

8 But they are together brutish and foolish: the instruction of idols! it is but a stock.

9 There is silver beaten into plates, which is brought from Tarshish, and gold from Uphaz, the work of the artificer and of the hands of the goldsmith; blue and purple for their clothing; they are all the work of skilful men.

10 But Jehovah is the true God; he is the living God, and an everlasting King: at his wrath the earth trembleth, and the nations are not able to abide his indignation.

11 Thus shall ye say unto them, The gods that have not made the heavens and the earth, these shall perish from the earth, and from under the heavens.

12 He hath made the earth by his power, he hath established the world by his wisdom, and by his understanding hath he stretched out the heavens:

13 when he uttereth his voice, there is a tumult of waters in the heavens, and he causeth the vapors to ascend from the ends of the earth; he maketh lightnings for the rain, and bringeth forth the wind out of his treasuries.

14 Every man is become brutish and is without knowledge; every goldsmith is put to shame by his graven image; for his molten image is falsehood, and there is no breath in them.

15 They are vanity, a work of delusion: in the time of their visitation they shall perish.

16 The portion of Jacob is not like these; for he is the former of all things; and Israel is the tribe of his inheritance: Jehovah of hosts is his name.

The Coming Destruction

17 Gather up thy wares out of the land, O thou that abidest in the siege.

18 For thus saith Jehovah, Behold, I will sling out the inhabitants of the land at this time, and will distress them, that they may feel it .

19 Woe is me because of my hurt! my wound is grievous: but I said, Truly this is my grief, and I must bear it.

20 My tent is destroyed, and all my cords are broken: my children are gone forth from me, and they are not: there is none to spread my tent any more, and to set up my curtains.

21 For the shepherds are become brutish, and have not inquired of Jehovah: therefore they have not prospered, and all their flocks are scattered.

22 The voice of tidings, behold, it cometh, and a great commotion out of the north country, to make the cities of Judah a desolation, a dwelling-place of jackals.

Jeremiah's Prayer

23 O Jehovah, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.

24 O Jehovah, correct me, but in measure: not in thine anger, lest thou bring me to nothing.

25 Pour out thy wrath upon the nations that know thee not, and upon the families that call not on thy name: for they have devoured Jacob, yea, they have devoured him and consumed him, and have laid waste his habitation. — Jeremiah 10 | American Standard Version (ASV) The American Standard Version Bible is in the public domain Cross References: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 2:5; Genesis 1:14; Genesis 21:33; Exodus 8:10; Deuteronomy 28:52; Deuteronomy 32:9; 1 Samuel 25:29; Psalm 6:1; Psalm 72:10; Psalm 96:5; Psalm 115:4; Proverbs 3:6; Proverbs 16:1; Isaiah 34:13; Isaiah 41:24; Isaiah 44:18; Isaiah 51:18; Jeremiah 2:8; Jeremiah 3:9; Jeremiah 4:22; Jeremiah 4:31; Jeremiah 9:26; Jeremiah 14:17; Acts 19:26; Romans 1:22; Romans 1:25; 1 Corinthians 1:19-20; 1 Corinthians 8:6; 1 Corinthians 12:2; 1 Thessalonians 4:5; 2 Thessalonians 1:8; Revelation 16:1

[with-blood-and-fire]

Fic: Black and Blue Chapter 3

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

Title: Black and Blue

Chapter: 3

Summary:

In a world where the Targaryen's are gifted with a one, true soulmate, Aemond and Luke dream of the day that they too will find their own.

Luke has spent his life with bruises and scars covering his body, though they were never his own. They were always from his soulmate. From a young age, the young prince knew that his soulmate was being abused. So he fights and trains, and he searches endlessly for the one who holds the other half of his soul. Aemond is the obedient son. The dutiful second son. And all he wished for was his families love and care, and to eventually find the one that might heal him. But his journey will be long and hard. And filled with more than a few bumps.

Follow these two through the defining moments of their lives, till they eventually find their way into each other's arms.

Pairing: Aemond/Lucerys

Rating: Will eventually be NC-17, but it's going to take a while to get there.

Warning: Child physical/emotional abuse

Luke age 13: King’s Landing

Three years. It had been three years since he had been in the Red Keep. Luke was glad to be back, if but for a time. Though as they approached the Keep, their looming walls had seemed strangely intimidating. Dragonstone had been quite the change of pace for the family. They were far enough away from the capitol to be free of any lord’s or ladies’ gossiping or influence. On Dragonstone, he was free of the worries and talk about his parentage. On Dragonstone, nobody cared who his father may or may not be. He was treated with respect all the same.

This gave the family a sense of freedom, even if there were fewer people and it tended to feel lonely at times. Upon the discussion of them returning to court at King’s Landing for a few weeks, Daemon had initially refused. The prince had been unwilling of course, preferring to stay upon Dragonstone. But Rhaenyra had wished to see her father as his health was failing. And who know how long he would still be with them?

Jace and he on the other hand, had been happy to fly back, enjoying the journey on their respective dragons. The flight over the water had been joyous for both he and Arrax, though also slightly worrying. As they were flying high over the water, tiny scars had begun to appear around his nail beds on his left hand. This was not the first time this had happened to his soulmate. But it didn’t look like an injury acquired from someone else’s hand. It was more likely to be self inflicted due to the placement and severity. In fact, Luke had once seen the Queen Alicent do the same to her own hands.

Perhaps it is a nervous habit people tend to pick up?

For the past three years, he had been focused on his soulmate. Each person he met, he had observed to find out if they might be the one had been looking for all these years. But he had never felt a pull to anyone, never felt close. And it was not to be. There was no sight of the other half of his soul anywhere on Dragonstone.

He still found small and large bruises and scars upon his flesh every day. His concern and protective nature had only grown over the years. But so had his anger and impulsiveness. He still worried desperately for his soulmate. Worried that one day the injuries would be too much for them and they would perish. And how could he find them if they were dead? But so too had his anger grown with each passing day. Many hours were spent thinking about those who dared to hurt his soulmate. His anger had doubled, tripled, until one day he had been speaking with his mother and had promised:

”If I ever meet the ones who have done this. I will kill them. And I will make them feel all the pain they put on my soulmate.”

Rhaenyra only smiled and patted his cheek. ”Whatever you need to do to protect your fated half, then that is what you shall do. I believe in you, my precious boy. Keep your head up and your mind strong. All will work out in the end, I promise.”

And he had held onto that lesson for years. Even as they reached the dragonpit in King’s Landing, his mind was on his soulmate.

Perhaps they really are here. Maybe they’ve been in King’s Landing all along.

“Luke!” He is shaken out of his thoughts by Rhaenyra dismounting Syrax and holding out a hand for him, even though he was perfectly capable dismounting his dragon himself.

“Yes ma?”

“Go ahead and go to your old chambers, hmmm? We will be having dinner soon enough and I do not wish for you to greet the King looking as you do.” She chuckles, running a hand through his windswept, unruly curls.

“Of course, ma. Will Aemond and the others be joining us?” He asks hopefully.

“I’m sure they will. Unfortunately.” ———

The dinner starts in quite the uncomfortable fashion. They had all quietly gathered themselves into the dining hall, sitting around the long table. It was Aemond, Alicent, Otto, Viserys, Aegon and Helaena. And across from them sat Luke, Rhaenyra, Daemon, Baela, Rhaena and Jace.

The King starts the dinner by making an awkward speech about family and how they must stick together, especially with the same blood flowing through their veins. They all toast to that, even Alicent and Otto, to Luke’s surprise.

What happens next, perhaps it was cruel of them. But he laughs when a roast pig is set directly down in from of his uncle. The older prince looks up with a wide eye, shocked. Luke thought it had been funny at first, but seeing the look in Aemond’s eye, his giddiness turns sour. Aemond, who had been sitting gracefully and acting the perfect prince, frown and curls in on himself, unable to keep looking at Luke.

The blond princeling had grown up over the past three years. Instead of the short and awkward teen, now stood a man. He was tall, lithe, and beautiful, though still seemingly as frail as he had always been.

Luke stops laughing at his uncle immediately, instead eating his meal in peace and keeping his head down. He can’t keep himself from continuing to watch Aemond though. It’s like he was drawn to him. But the curiosity turns into confusion when Otto leans around Alicent to whisper something to his grandson. Aemond turns pale, nods, and sits up straighter.

That’s odd. Aemond looks sick. Luke ponders. Perhaps he isn’t feeling well.

And when he asks if he is alright, Otto glares at him. But Aemond nods with a hint of a smile.

That’s something at least. Luke thinks.

“I am fine, nephew. Thank you for your concern.” Aemond answers.

But Luke isn’t so sure. And something tickles the back of his mind when he notices what looks like a fading bruise under the sleeve of his tunic. His attention is diverted then by the rest of the night going to absolute shambles.

His uncle must have been stewing in anger after the pig incident and decides to make a toast. He insults them and their family. And of course the ever impulsive Jace won’t stand for the insults and decides to punch him. Not that Aemond lets that deter him, shoving the shorter boy away immediately. After that fiasco, they are all sent to bed by their parents as if they were still little children. Luke glares at Jace as they make their way down the hall.

“Was that necessary?”

“What?” Jace raises an eyebrow at him. “Punching Aemond?”

“What else?”

“He insulted you and me, and mother!” Jace exclaims.

“We made fun of him first. The pig you requested be placed in front of him?” Luke puts his hand on his hips and turns to roll his eyes at his older brother.

“It’s not my fault he can’t take a joke!”

“It’s a sensitive subject for him, Jace. You know that.” Luke whispers. “We’ve always been hard on him. Is it really so surprising that he would be upset at that?”

“If you are asking me to apologize to that stuck up….Luke?”

“Hmmm?”

“There’s another one….” Jace reaches out to brush his finger over Luke’s eyebrow.

“Oh…What is it this time?”

“A bruise. Your eye…”

“Damn it… I’ll have to cover it up with mother’s makeup if it isn’t gone by morning.”

“It’s almost as if it is in the same spot as….” Jace trails off.

“As what?”

“Never mind. I must be seeing things that aren’t there.”

Luke raises an eyebrow at him but shrugs. Jace surely would have told him if it were something important. —————————

Aemond age 16: King’s Landing

Hope was a fickle thing. It was useless, he had decided. Three years ago, he had tried to be patient, as his younger nephew had instructed him to be. He had tried so hard. But with each and every passing day he began to fail in doing so.

I was so naive. Aemond thinks as he picks the highest collared shirt he can find for the family dinner.

Any hope he had every had of meeting his soulmate dwindled away until it had left an ugly, gaping hole in his heart. What use was it anyways? Who would love him? He was ill-looking cold, rude and ruthless. There was nothing in him someone would desire in a partner.

But that’s alright. I do not mind.

mind. He had made peace long ago with the fact that he might spend the rest of his days alone. He was a grown man now. He needed no one but himself.

So instead of dwelling on any depressing thoughts, he had done for himself what he could. Aemond trained every day until he could best Ser Criston and the other knights with his one good eye closed. He practiced his High Valyrian until even the Maesters had no more to teach him. He had studied politics, history, finance, and everything in between until even his mother and grandfather could not find fault in his studies.

It was a lonely three years without Rhaenyra and her family, as much as he was loathe to admit it. Without their eyes about the castle, it had been easier for his mother and grandfather to take out their frustrations on him. Now there were fewer people looking for fault in them. It was easier to hide their dissatisfaction in him.

So of course Aemond had been excited when the King had requested Rhaenyra and her family at court for a short time. Eager as he was to see his nephews, even little Joffrey, perhaps he should have exercised more restraint in his excitement. Of course nothing would have gone to plan. When had it ever?

Mother had scolded him ahead of the dinner, begging him to act the prince he was and to be a good example. And he had tried! He really had.

But when the roast pig had been placed in front of him, he just could not help but react in a fashion befitting of his reputation. And that is when things started to go down hill. He could see his nephews laughing form across the tables. He wanted nothing more to wipe the silly little smirk from Luke’s face. But he couldn’t, not here.

So he just frowns and curls into himself, trying to ignore their laughing stares. He is not given the ability to hide for long though. Soon enough his grandfather is whispering in his ear to straighten his back and act like a man instead of a whimpering child.

Aemond knows his next actions were a mistake. He shouldn’t have let it get to him, but he had been almost excited to see his nephews. But they had just made fun of them instead. Just as they had when he was a child.

They did not take the insults well, least of all Jace, who had dared him to repeat it.

“Twas only a compliment.” He had said.

Stupid Aemond.

His nephew hadn’t wasted any time in punching him in his good eye. And even now, hidden in his bedroom, the site of the punch pained him. It was his fault, he knew. But even so he wished they would see him for who he was. He just wanted them to like him. They never had. And it was a silly thought. But was it so terrible to at least want someone on his side? Even if they had hurt him?

Mother and grandfather had not been pleased when they had ordered him and his siblings to their rooms. He was wary. The look in his grandfather’s eyes had screamed murder. Aemond pulls his covers over his head and curls up a little ball. Nothing could be any worse than it had been before at least. He could and would endure it as he always had.

——————————— Luke age 17: Dragonstone

“Come on Luke! You’ve got to try harder than that!” Jace calls from up ahead, directing Vermax through the clouds.

“Vermax is just a wiggly creature! How am I supposed to catch up with you when you he wiggles left and right like a snake!”

“You will learn, brother! You will learn!” Jace cackles before Vermax darts off again, leaving Luke and Arrax in the dust, figuratively of course.

It had been a good morning for a ride upon their dragons. The sky had been clear and bright when they had ascended into the air upon Vermax and Arrax. And the two dragons had been just as excited to get some fresh air. The two had been playing a game of catch, ignoring their lessons and duties for the moment. When they had passed their mother earlier that morning, dressed in their riding leathers, she had only raised an amused eyebrow and said nothing.

What could missing one single day of lessons hurt anyways? There would be more than enough time in the future to make up for it. The day had gone splendidly but the two were quickly tiring out. Their game is unfortunately cut short by the darkening skies and the dreary clouds that were beginning to roll in. Storms were common upon Dragonstone, but even the dragons wouldn’t want to be out in the thick of it.

”Down Arrax! Time to go home.” Arrax chirps in agreement and the four fly back down to the shores where the dragon keepers awaited them. Once they’d released their precious beasts to the dragon keepers, Jace slaps a hand on Luke’s back.

“Come, brother. I believe you mentioned you were wishing to your Valyrian when we got home. I shall meet you in your chambers. I believe we have time for a short discussion before dinner.”

“Meet you there Jace! Although if you could change beforehand, I would appreciate it. You stink.” Luke’s nose turns up in fake disgust as he leans close to sniff.

Jace growls playfully and grabs Luke in a headlock.

“You are the one that stinks! For a such a young dragon, Arrax really smells like he’s lived in the dungheap for years!”

“Hey!” Luke shouts, but is left behind as his older brother just runs away laughing. —————

Luke is in the midst of removing his own leather riding jerkin when Jace enters, head buried in a textbook. The older brother flips through pages and settles himself in the settee by the window while he waits for Luke to finish changing. And Luke is just reaching for a clean shirt when a soft thud sounds from Jace’s direction.

“Seven hells…” The older one whispers.

Luke raises an eyebrow at him. Jace had dropped his book and was staring with horror at Luke.

“Yes? Is all well Jace? Dragon got your tongue?”

Jace flies up from the seat and runs to Luke, dragging him silently to the mirror on the wall.

“Luke, look at your back.”

Aemond whips his head around to see what his brother was gawking at. But he too gasps and he feels all the color drain from his face. With trembling fingers he reaches over his shoulder to run a finger over one of the marks. His back was a terrible work of art. A crisis cross of webs. One like his Aunt Helen’s little spiders might make. But instead of the spider-silk creating the patters, pink scars made up the picture upon his skin.

“Fuck.” Luke whispers, unable to form any coherent thought.

“Gods Luke. It’s…. I ….” Even Jace for once is speechless.

“Fucking fuck!” Luke exclaims, distress growing. The two boys don’t notice the door creaking open, horrified as they were.

“Your mother may swear like a sailor. But don’t let her hear you saying such things, boys. But I won’t chastise you. Gods know I swear enough for….seven bloody, buggering hells!” Daemon hisses before charging towards them and grabbing Luke’s shoulders to steady him so he can look.

“Daemon….” Jace mutters.

“Is this….?” Daemon stutters.

“My soulmate.” Luke chokes, tearing up as he continues to stare at the horrible scars.

“Gods. When did this one show up?” Daemon steps away, even he looking like he might vomit at any moment.

“We just realized. It wasn’t here this morning.” Luke strokes another scar, frowning as he does.

Daemon taps the sword at his hip and the two boys watch as a fire rages in the older man’s eyes. He begins pacing back and forth in Luke’s chambers.

“They will burn, Lucerys. This I promise you. Whoever has created these marks? They will die slowly and painfully by dragonfire. I am sorry you are going through this.”

“I only hope my soulmate is alright.”

Jace hangs his head and nods. Luke reaches for a shirt finally and throws it over his head, too saddened to look at it any longer.

“Daemon. What is it that you came here for?”

The man frowns. “Come with me. I do not wish to place any more burdens on your already hurting hearts, but we must convene in the council chamber.”

Jace and Luke look at each other with concern, but follow the man throughout the castle. Once they reach the council room, they find that Rhaenyra is already there. As are several lords and councilmen, all looking grim.

“Ma?” Luke queries, noticing the tear tracks on her cheeks.

“Are you alright?” Jace asks.

“The King is dead.” She says, leaving both boys in disbelief.

Luke cries that night. An action he does not often allow himself. He cries for his mother, who had loved her father so. He cries for his little siblings, who will never know their grandfather’s love. But most of all he cries for his soulmate, who he worries might be ripped from him before they can find each other.

—————————————

Aemond age 20: King’s Landing

“The King is dead.” Ser Criston had told him that morning. Waking him up from his slumber to tell him as much, before leaving him to relay the news to his siblings.

Perhaps Aemond should have felt something upon hearing the news. Sadness, grief, worry for his mother. But in truth, he felt nothing. His heart was empty. It was not as if it was truly the King’s fault that he received no sadness from Aemond. But he had never been a good father. Not once had he worried over his youngest children. He had instead ignored them. Leaving them be with the tutors and maesters to tend to.

Aemond had learned long ago not to try and attract his father’s affection. It had been drilled into his mind that the affection was for Rhaenyra and Rhaenyra alone. He wasn’t angry at Rhaenyra for this. It wasn’t her fault that their father loved her the best. But the love that should have been given to him instead left a black pit in his heart. So instead all he felt was emptiness.

But beside that emptiness, there was hint of fear. For while Viserys had not been a great parent or doting father, he had uninentionally offered Aemond protection. Protection from fists, feet, shards of glass and terrible cutting words.

But now, without Viserys to unknowingly save him, he knew there would be consequences. What kind, he didn’t know. But nothing good was coming, that he was sure of.

So when the guard stood outside his chambers knocks on the door, telling him his presence is requested in the council chamber, he is not truly surprised.

The small council is just emptying out of the council room when he arrives. All grim of face, and shaky. Though Tyland Lannister still has that awful smirk on his face.When he enters, the sight that greets him is not a welcoming one. His mother sits with head in hands at the head of the table, hair a mess and shaking. His grandfather stands tall, nails digging into his mother’s shoulder. But that is not what catches Aemond’s attention.

Lord Beesbury is slumped at the table, obviously deceased, and his blood pooling the ornate table. Aemond grimaces but knows better than to ask questions. He stands, hands behind his back and stony mask in place.

“Mother. Grandfather.”

“Aemond, come.” His mother sighs. “We have much to discuss.”

Aemond approaches and sits in the chair beside his mother when she gestures for him to do so.

“What is there to discuss?”

“I believe Ser Criston has told you the news?”

“Yes, mother. I am sorry for your loss.”

“I am not.” She snorts. “Your father was a terrible husband. But we do have a couple issues that have now arisen.”

Aemond waits for her to continue, not interested in having her rage upon him quite yet.

“You must find your brother, Aemond. He is nowhere to be found in the keep. We need him here.”

The blonde prince tilts his head and looks at her curiously..

Aegon? Why would they need Aegon?

“You need me to find Aegon?”

“He must be crowned at first light, lest the bitch Rhaenyra get here first to stake her claim.” Otto hisses.

“Aegon? Crowned?” He asked again, not entirely sure he was hearing them correctly.

“Yes, boy. That is exactly what I said.” Otto rolls his eyes.

“Why are we crowning Aegon?” Aemond queries, so shocked that he can’t keep his questions to himself.

“Because that is what the King requested.” His mother whispers, head low.

“No it’s not.” The words come automatically out of his mouth, as if someone else were speaking them. His mother looks at him now and fixes him with a disapproving stare.

“It is. He said it me just last night.”

“That can not be true, mother. He named Rhaenyra as heir!”

The slap does not surprise him. With the way he was currently running his mouth, it was only a matter of time until she or Otto took control.

“Shut your mouth boy. If you know what’s good for you.” Otto hisses.

“Does Aegon want to be king?”

“That is not for him to decide. It matters not his wishes.” Alicent stands and begins to pace, picking at her fingers.

“Why would you force him to be King?”

“Because that bitch will kill all of us if she sits upon the throne!” Alicent shouts.

“How do you know?” Aemond’s voice begins to rise along with Alicent’s. He had never been so confused in his life. This wasn’t right. What they were doing wasn’t right. No matter his quarrels with Rhaenyra and her family, it was she who had been named heir. It was she that father had wanted upon the throne.

“I just do.” Alicent whispers.

Aemond scoffs at that. “Well that would be a better existence than suffering through our lives with Aegon on the throne!” Aemond finally shouts, losing control of his emotions. He and Aegon had never been close. But even Aemond would not wish the throne being pushed on him..

“You take that back!” Alicent cries.

“No! Aegon doesn’t want the throne. You want the throne. And you two would do anything to get it! How much power do you need? Is being hand of the king not enough? Was being Queen not enough? Sometimes I can’t believe I came out of your cunt! Rhaenyra should be crowned as Queen. You do not deserve any of this.”

Alicent stares at Otto for a moment and then silently walks out of the room, heels clicking menacingly at the floor. Aemond glares at Otto, too upset to feel any sort of fear when the man stalks towards him and rips him out of the chair.

“Turn around and remove your shirt.”

Aemond’s heart stutters.

“What?”

“Turn around and remove your shirt boy. Or did you not hear me the first time? You have disobeyed me for the last time. Now do as I say.”

Aemond, though hesitant, does as ordered. He had only ever seen grandfather this angry once or twice before. And if he does anything else, he knows it will only make things worse. But when Otto removes his belt and folds it in half, he fears for his life.

The first strike is not terrible. He’s felt worse. The second one stings a bit harder. But as each strike of the belt comes, Aemond’s mind drifts further and further away.

He was a grown man. He should be able to stop this! But he was a prisoner in the keep. Not officially, no. But he knew he had no power or voice here. Fighting would only anger his grandfather more. So instead of fighting back, he flees into his mind. To other things. He still registers the pain, and gods does his back hurt. He can feel the blood trickling down his spine to seep into the waistband of his trousers. But he lets his mind think of other things.

His soulmate, the one he so desperately wanted to believe in. Even if everything in him screamed he was alone. The one he so desperately wanted to meet. But perhaps it was best if he didn’t. How could he bring that special person into his life and into such a world of hurt and despair.

No. This was his life to bear. Alone.

[femininecourage]

I have a confession to make: I'm currently in this season wherein praying and studying His word is so easy...so easy to forget. There are so many excuses when it comes to spending time with God, until I forget about it and fall asleep. It's wash, rinse, repeat for the rest of the week, the month...

And I think I know the reason. I have been getting into old habits I thought I've already outgrown, and adding a couple more bad ones. And the root cause of it?

Entertainment. Worldly, secular entertainment.

My fellow Christians, let this be a reminder to be careful with what you consume, even if it may seem harmless. Yes, this includes even posts made by our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Those 'Christian' posts must glorify Him and encourage us to seek His glory, not our own. He is God, not us. We are merely creations of His but "for God so loved the world, He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believe in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life."

John 3:16 is one of, if not, the most popular Bible verses for a reason. It is a reminder of our Savior, our Lord Jesus Christ, has accomplished on the cross for us.

I hope that this reminder also serves as an encouragement that we may stumble in our walk but because He paid for the price of our sins (the wages of sin is death), we are renewed.

Just come to Him. Directly. Ask for forgiveness, confess your sins, and repent.

[craftylovegentlemen]

Deuteronomy

Chapter 26

1 And it shall be, when thou art come in unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance, and possessest it, and dwellest therein; 2 That thou shalt take of the first of all the fruit of the earth, which thou shalt bring of thy land that the LORD thy God giveth thee, and shalt put it in a basket, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose to place his name there. 3 And thou shalt go unto the priest that shall be in those days, and say unto him, I profess this day unto the LORD thy God, that I am come unto the country which the LORD sware unto our fathers for to give us. 4 And the priest shall take the basket out of thine hand, and set it down before the altar of the LORD thy God. 5 And thou shalt speak and say before the LORD thy God, A Syrian ready to perish was my father, and he went down into Egypt, and sojourned there with a few, and became there a nation, great, mighty, and populous: 6 And the Egyptians evil entreated us, and afflicted us, and laid upon us hard bondage: 7 And when we cried unto the LORD God of our fathers, the LORD heard our voice, and looked on our affliction, and our labour, and our oppression: 8 And the LORD brought us forth out of Egypt with a mighty hand, and with an outstretched arm, and with great terribleness, and with signs, and with wonders: 9 And he hath brought us into this place, and hath given us this land, even a land that floweth with milk and honey. 10 And now, behold, I have brought the firstfruits of the land, which thou, O LORD, hast given me. And thou shalt set it before the LORD thy God, and worship before the LORD thy God:

11 And thou shalt rejoice in every good thing which the LORD thy God hath given unto thee, and unto thine house, thou, and the Levite, and the stranger that is among you. 12 When thou hast made an end of tithing all the tithes of thine increase the third year, which is the year of tithing, and hast given it unto the Levite, the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, that they may eat within thy gates, and be filled; 13 Then thou shalt say before the LORD thy God, I have brought away the hallowed things out of mine house, and also have given them unto the Levite, and unto the stranger, to the fatherless, and to the widow, according to all thy commandments which thou hast commanded me: I have not transgressed thy commandments, neither have I forgotten them: 14 I have not eaten thereof in my mourning, neither have I taken away ought thereof for any unclean use, nor given ought thereof for the dead: but I have hearkened to the voice of the LORD my God, and have done according to all that thou hast commanded me. 15 Look down from thy holy habitation, from heaven, and bless thy people Israel, and the land which thou hast given us, as thou swarest unto our fathers, a land that floweth with milk and honey. 16 This day the LORD thy God hath commanded thee to do these statutes and judgments: thou shalt therefore keep and do them with all thine heart, and with all thy soul. 17 Thou hast avouched the LORD this day to be thy God, and to walk in his ways, and to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgments, and to hearken unto his voice: 18 And the LORD hath avouched thee this day to be his peculiar people, as he hath promised thee, and that thou shouldest keep all his commandments; 19 And to make thee high above all nations which he hath made, in praise, and in name, and in honour; and that thou mayest be an holy people unto the LORD thy God, as he hath spoken.

Deuteronomy 26

Diane Beauford

[libidomechanica]

Blue heavens, I would pen you can see

Thy record never left thinking     about you, but, by God! Turn again what shake and no great     disaster one of the nail in its lava, with wit my     will be fit for you might still in my way. His Oaten reedes     bene rent and woods

were grown a bulk of spanless glory     crowned with her willing all dabbled with a heaven better     melody, and reverend lovely Davies. By Sences     privilege your failing: these toying hand she me caught a     bedde of ease: the virgins

make defence save breed, to brave     oppressing which men stickle. To some other boon for each idle     weed; but at the handmaid of thee pleases their sweet Nature;     and what he did not read the Crown has worn at hearts abhor—     in cities produced

a Special Essence called Beauty     from causes, sleep; for what it had sunk a flocculent dust     on the height with hurried by shriek rings o’er Siberia’s wild     has feeling myself, and flower imaginary way     good—then another way:

so thou, thyself dost pay. My nobler     part to my gross clay invades it. The shape of darkned     mind. Had made the silver flowing: a moderate pension     shall not savages of rock, here we must have him walk the     primrose wan, and over,

your judgment pluck; and yet truly     write your sex. I think of it; from foes,—besides, in ridles,     and so forgets to nourish’d, had perish too! Those powders     to heart. When gloves are won. Are they lost Lady came to ill     that snap the three parts could

breathless Latmian wonder’d monstrous     eft was out of, as out of, as out of curiosity,     like child of Murder’s rattles. Ask me no more white o’er     someone who is asham’d to doat upon a sandy path,     to add his own son, shudder;—

while, as beguiled by habit     to wonders rare; and think the pungent Gouda in the best     whene’er I sing, and how to cut and in chafe, him from my     loue is such they reach’d therefore be not through her notion, and     ’gan to plait and poor; the

rigging and dumplin burn to pot,     till our dazed eyes have seen a new one to his rome, when withstand     that hour. Few sorrows come with weather-beaten, veteran     body, and strange beachcomber in me under other note.     With female. Points in the

grainy dusk towards it by no     measureless ill, for years, pale grew thy charms possessed. To his     darling buds of moss, with starlight gems: aye, all is right. Blue     heavens, I would pen you can see! When this hymn, and all the     tremulous showers, and

vain, grace, beauty do I question     make a sound the grainy dusk toward another’s hell: yet they     lifted up, and crystal clasp them when your wish nor scorn drew     from me, both together, he would choose. Johnson, and his not     the bonie was yon rosy

brier, that the Antelope and     Lion—let not to death the Peacoks spotted traine, and around,     you that a several parts could kick down things, which the     even doth homage to themselves. If thou find’st one, but did     sing about your father

summer heats which glory’s a great     George’s collar. Keep mind that we see, the golden quill and     presently o Sire, ’ she saw the heart! How he doe loue,     with her recklessness, in her eye with custom, that Boon lived     on the ceiling’s height win.

[superjakethegreat]

The Spirit of Truth; Holy Spirit

January 8, 2024

“And I will ask the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever; even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it sees him not, neither knows him—but you know him; for he dwells with you, and shall be in you.”

John 14:16-17

The holy Comforter and most gracious Spirit does not take up a temporary abode in the heart of the Lord’s people. Where he once takes up his dwelling, there he forever dwells and lives. “He shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you forever.” Oh, the blessing! Where once that holy Dove has lighted, there that Dove abides. He does not visit the soul with his grace, and then leave it to perish under the wrath of God, or allow his work to wither, droop, and die. But where he has once come into the soul with power, there he fixes his continual habitation, for he makes the bodies of the saints his temple. He consecrates them to the service of God. He takes up his dwelling in their hearts; there he lives, there he moves, there he works, and sanctifies body and soul to the honor and glory of the Lord God Almighty.

And oh, what a blessing it is to have received the same gracious and heavenly Teacher as the Spirit of truth! If this be our happy case, we know the truth for ourself, and the truth is dear to our soul; it has been ingrafted by a divine witness in our heart, and inlaid by the power of God in our conscience. The truth as it is in Jesus is very, very precious to us. We cannot part with it; it is our very life. Sooner than part with God’s truth and our saving interest therein, we would be willing in favored moments to lay down our life itself.

But what makes us love God’s truth? What has given us a heart to embrace and delight in it; and when we have come to the house of prayer, it may be with a fainting body and a troubled mind, has yet supported our weary steps and brought us on; or when we have gone home from hearing the word, has cheered our heart, in the dark and gloomy night as we have lain upon our bed, and drawn our affections up to the Lord Jesus Christ? The Comforter, the Spirit of truth. He, and he alone, could give it so firm and enduring a place in our heart, conscience, and affections.

Then live that truth as well as love it, and proclaim its power and efficacy in our life and conversation. If the Spirit has written his truth upon our heart, he will bring forth that truth in our lips and in our life. He will make it manifest that we are “children that cannot lie.” We will show forth the power of truth, in the sincerity of your speech, in the uprightness of our movements, in our family, in the Church, in our business, in our general character and deportment, and in everything which stamps the reality of religion and the power of vital godliness.

[stirlingmoss]

Idols and the Living God

10 Hear the word that the Lord speaks to you, O house of Israel. 2 Thus says the Lord:

“Learn not the way of the nations,    nor be dismayed at the signs of the heavens    because the nations are dismayed at them, 3 for the customs of the peoples are vanity.[a] A tree from the forest is cut down    and worked with an axe by the hands of a craftsman. 4 They decorate it with silver and gold;    they fasten it with hammer and nails    so that it cannot move. 5 Their idols[b] are like scarecrows in a cucumber field,    and they cannot speak; they have to be carried,    for they cannot walk. Do not be afraid of them,    for they cannot do evil,    neither is it in them to do good.”

6 There is none like you, O Lord;    you are great, and your name is great in might. 7 Who would not fear you, O King of the nations?    For this is your due; for among all the wise ones of the nations    and in all their kingdoms    there is none like you. 8 They are both stupid and foolish;    the instruction of idols is but wood! 9 Beaten silver is brought from Tarshish,    and gold from Uphaz. They are the work of the craftsman and of the hands of the goldsmith;    their clothing is violet and purple;    they are all the work of skilled men. 10 But the Lord is the true God;    he is the living God and the everlasting King. At his wrath the earth quakes,    and the nations cannot endure his indignation.

11 Thus shall you say to them: “The gods who did not make the heavens and the earth shall perish from the earth and from under the heavens.”[c]

12 It is he who made the earth by his power,    who established the world by his wisdom,    and by his understanding stretched out the heavens. 13 When he utters his voice, there is a tumult of waters in the heavens,    and he makes the mist rise from the ends of the earth. He makes lightning for the rain,    and he brings forth the wind from his storehouses. 14 Every man is stupid and without knowledge;    every goldsmith is put to shame by his idols, for his images are false,    and there is no breath in them. 15 They are worthless, a work of delusion;    at the time of their punishment they shall perish. 16 Not like these is he who is the portion of Jacob,    for he is the one who formed all things, and Israel is the tribe of his inheritance;    the Lord of hosts is his name.

17 Gather up your bundle from the ground,    O you who dwell under siege! 18 For thus says the Lord: “Behold, I am slinging out the inhabitants of the land    at this time, and I will bring distress on them,    that they may feel it.”

19 Woe is me because of my hurt!    My wound is grievous. But I said, “Truly this is an affliction,    and I must bear it.” 20 My tent is destroyed,    and all my cords are broken; my children have gone from me,    and they are not; there is no one to spread my tent again    and to set up my curtains. 21 For the shepherds are stupid    and do not inquire of the Lord; therefore they have not prospered,    and all their flock is scattered.

22 A voice, a rumor! Behold, it comes!—    a great commotion out of the north country to make the cities of Judah a desolation,    a lair of jackals.

23 I know, O Lord, that the way of man is not in himself,    that it is not in man who walks to direct his steps. 24 Correct me, O Lord, but in justice;    not in your anger, lest you bring me to nothing.

25 Pour out your wrath on the nations that know you not,    and on the peoples that call not on your name, for they have devoured Jacob;    they have devoured him and consumed him,    and have laid waste his habitation.

[piouscatholic]

#UniversalisCom

Tuesday 5 July 2022

#OFFICEOFREADINGS

#Hymn

O God of truth and Lord of power,

whose word their course to things assigns,

whose splendour lights the morning hour,

whose fiery sun at noonday shines:

Within us quench the flames of strife,

the harmful heat of passion quell;

give health of body to our life

and give true peace of soul as well.

In this, most loving Father, hear,

and Christ, co-equal Son, our prayer:

with Holy Ghost, one Trinity,

You reign for all eternity.

[Psalm 36 (37)]

The fate of the evil and the righteous

Commit your life to the Lord, and He will act on your behalf.

Do not envy the wicked;

do not be jealous of those that do evil.

They will dry up as quickly as hay;

they will wither like the grass.

Put your trust in the Lord and do good,

and your land and habitation will be secure.

Take your delight in the Lord,

and He will give you what your heart desires.

Entrust your journey to the Lord, and hope in Him:

and He will act.

He will make your uprightness shine like the light,

your judgement like the sun at noon.

Take your rest in the Lord, and hope in Him:

do not envy the one who thrives in his own way,

the man who weaves plots.

Abstain from wrath, abandon anger:

do not envy him who turns to evil,

for those who do evil will be destroyed,

but those on the side of the Lord

will inherit the earth.

A moment yet – and the sinner will be gone:

you will look where he was and find nothing.

But the meek will inherit the land

and delight in abundant peace.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,

is now, and ever shall be,

world without end.

Amen.

Commit your life to the Lord, and He will act on your behalf.

[Psalm 36 (37)]

Turn away from evil and do good: the Lord will support the just.

The wicked will plot against the righteous

and gnash his teeth at him;

but the Lord will deride him in His turn,

for the Lord has seen what awaits him.

The wicked have pulled out their swords,

the wicked have drawn their bows,

to throw down the poor and the destitute,

to murder whoever follows the straight path.

But their swords will enter their own hearts,

and their bows will splinter.

For the righteous, the little they have is better

than the abundant wealth of the wicked.

The limbs of the wicked will be broken

while the Lord gives His strength to the just.

The Lord knows when the day of the perfect will come;

and their inheritance will be eternal.

They will not be troubled in evil times,

and in times of famine they will have more than enough.

For the wicked will perish:

the enemies of the Lord will be like the flowers of the fields,

and like smoke they will vanish away.

The wicked man borrows and does not return;

but the righteous takes pity and gives.

The blessed ones of the Lord will inherit the earth,

but those whom He curses will be cut off.

It is the Lord who strengthens the steps of man

and chooses his path.

Even if he trips he will not fall flat,

for the Lord is holding his hand.

I was young and I have grown old,

but I have not seen the righteous man abandoned

nor his children seeking for bread.

All day long he takes pity and lends,

and his seed will be blessed.

Shun evil and do good,

and you will live for ever.

For the Lord loves right judgement,

and will not abandon His chosen ones.

The unjust will be destroyed for ever,

and the seed of the wicked will be cut off,

but the righteous will inherit the earth

and live there from age to age.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son

and to the Holy Spirit,

as it was in the beginning,

is now, and ever shall be,

world without end.

Amen.

Turn away from evil and do good: the Lord will support the just.

[LET US PRAY]

Lord God,

when our world lay in ruins,

You raised it up again on the foundation of Your Son’s Passion and Death.

Give us grace to rejoice in the freedom from sin which He gained for us,

and bring us to everlasting joy.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,

who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Let us praise the Lord.

– Thanks be to God