#messenger of the covenant

[andyxphantom]

i really miss the windbreaker, spinkick/cartwheel, crowdkill your homies, slow breakdowns and super downtuned deathcore from 09' to the early mid 2010s decade or so, and also those bands promoted in breakdown compilation videos or that old chugcore blogspot

good times

keep staying br00tal in the year of 2024 my friends

[tridentfaith]

If Luna & Prompto were left alone they'd probably put Pryna & Umbra in cute Halloween costumes.

[mybeautifulchristianjourney]

I will send my messenger...

Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts. — Malachi 3:1 | King James Version (KJV) The King James Version Bible is in the public domain Cross References: Matthew 11:10; Matthew 11:14; Mark 1:2; Luke 1:76; Luke 7:27; John 1:6-7

[orangejuice707]

*SCREAMS*

I HATE MYSELF

[teecupangel]

Why not just Desmond being an angel.

And it freaks everybody out and everybody thinks he's holy or something and he's just like "all right okay why not"

It had happened by accident.

It had to be an accident, right?

Altaïr had been thrown out of the room and the Templars had unsheathed their weapons. Malik had been focused on protecting his brother, shouting at him to run as he tried to keep all of the Templars busy.

Robert de Sablé didn’t even look back when he walked away after ordering their death.

Malik didn’t know what happened.

He saw Kadar freeze when he neared the scaffolding that would lead to the treasure and Malik swore his eyes glowed gold for the briefest of moments.

Before one of the Templars charged at him.

Kadar snapped out of it and tried to block, his stance unstable enough that he slipped backwards.

Into the scaffolding…

Taking the Templar with him.

The Templar’s sword struck one of the wooden pillars keeping the scaffolding stable and…

Malik didn’t have any explanation for it.

It shouldn’t have happened.

The scaffolding started to crumble, making Kadar and the Templar run away from it as fast as they could.

And then…

The wall next to the scaffolding began to break apart, golden light coming from the cracks before the entire thing fell down.

Together with the treasure and the ark where it had been resting.

The ark broke in half, splitting in the middle to reveal an egg shaped thing made of stone that was around the height of perhaps Malik when he was sitting on the floor.

The treasure fell on top of it, shattering like it was made of glass.

Where the shards fell on the stone, the stone changed and spread.

Until…

What had been stone had changed to seemingly three pairs of wings with white feathers that seemed to shine gold all curled together.

The wings twitched…

Before slowly opening, stretching to its full size.

Revealing a young man seemingly sleeping, the three pairs of wings attached to his back. His head was resting on his propped up knees.

No one could speak.

No one could move.

Until…

“Altaïr?” Kadar whispered hesitantly and Malik could see why he would call out that fool’s name.

The man looked too much like Altaïr for it to be a coincidence.

Almost as if hearing the name, the man…

No.

The divine being in front of them opened his eyes.

Instead of Altaïr’s golden eyes, his eyes were light brown with specks of gold in them.

And Malik wondered how he could see them from where he was standing, a few meters away from the winged being.

The divine being looked around and blinked.

His eyes met Malik and his lips parted.

“It’s an angel!”

Before he could speak, the Templars all knelt and began to pray.

The Templar who had attacked Kadar took off his helmet and…

It was a woman.

A woman who was praying fervently at the divine being who…

… looked at Malik with wide confused eyes.

Unorganized Notes… I mean… sorta notes?:

Desmond is surprised for a few seconds then he goes “Be not afraid” and tried to sound super impressive “Ye are in the presence of…………… the will of God.” and he’s just bullshiting his way to uuhhh. He has no plans.

He glanced at Malik and Kadar and oh yeah, alright.

“Ye shall not harm these… men of justice for they are… under my protection…?”

At that point, Desmond knows he is ffuuuccckkeedd. Malik is obviously onto him. Kadar is super confused and just keeps staring at his face. Then…

Maria, of all people, agree and even goes as pledge her sword to him which is super weird and Desmond’s just “???”

In the end, Desmond accidentally takes the Templars about to kill Malik and Kadar with him as he leaves the temple with Malik and Kadar. It’s a very awkward journey and Desmond has no idea what else to do other than…

Oh wait… there were other Templars stationed nearby and they all saw him leave with his ‘entourage’.

Before he could try to say anything, Maria speaks for him, calling the messenger of God and that he had been sleeping in the Ark of the Covenant which sounded like a super big deal (and he can’t even whisper to Malik to ask what the hell she was talking about because the Farm was never religious and the only time Desmond even heard of the Ark of the Covenant was from Indiana Jones) and…

… why does it feel like Maria was converting people into becoming his personal army???

Oh god… Was this…

Was he going to take his own army to Masyaf???

[youryurigoddess]

Maggie’s pendants and good omens

Yes, you’ve read it right. This post is going to deal with some literal good omens, not just title drop! But first things first, let’s take a closer look at the topic of this analysis.

A toucan

The top necklace is a lovely design involving a crowned toucan — believed to be a messenger of gods able to travel between the spiritual and the physical world, often associated with rain and rainbow (a Christian symbol of divine love, grace, and mercy, a reminder of the covenant between God and humanity to spare the latter from future trials like the Flood) — encircled by a gold band (a symbol of infinity, eternal love and promise) spun by a small butterfly (a symbol of transformation, hope, and rebirth). All three symbols combined seem to deliver a divine message of hope for rebirth, possibly resurrection, and the eternal life. Very fitting in the context of the Second Coming.

The fact that toucans were revered by the native South Americans as rainbringers strengthens the symbolic meaning of another type of bird we can spot on Maggie’s clothes in the very first episode, as her character introduction — a swallow. Swallows flying low are also believed to be harbingers of rain and bad weather. If you see one close to Earth or a building, it means that there’s a storm — or a certain biblical tempest — on the horizon.

In Ancient Greece and Rome swallows were representing Aphrodite, goddess of love. In Christianity they were considered to be of God and symbolized hope, awakening, and revival of life as messengers of spring and protectors from winter colds. Also helped Jesus on the Cross — according to a Christian legend, a group of swallows was supposed to take out the thorns from the Crown of Thorns and alleviate His Passion on the Cross. Humans banding together in the name of good have been a big theme in the series ever since The Them made an appearance, and from what we already know about the unpublished Good Omens sequel, we can assume that Jesus is going to take the spotlight in the upcoming season.

Maggie definitely attracts sudden inexplicable weather changes, like a thunderstorm with weirdly localized lightning strikes or a sudden downpour. And we’re still waiting for some vavooming (and the following happy ending) to happen in S3.

A heart with an eye

Now, the more nuanced clue hidden in the bottom necklace. I know that some of us were trying to tackle the concept of Maggie’s eye in a heart pendant suggesting her Masonic connotations, but this symbol (or the Eye of Providence in general) isn’t strictly Masonic, it isn’t even limited only to Judeo-Christian art. And while it is used a lot in Christian iconography, we should focus on a very specific example of it already referenced in the show.

Buckle up, we’re making a parachute dive into S1.

It seems like our old friend, Agnes Nutter, still has our backs.

Prophecy 4020:

Let the wheel of fate turne, let harts enjoin, there are othere fyres than mine; when the whirl wynd whirls, reach oute one to another.

If you look closely at the bottom right corner of this frame, you will see that as an illustration for the above prophecy the production team chose a 1611 engraving titled The Minde should have a fixed Eye On Objects, that are plac’d on High first found in Gabriel Rollenhagen’s Nucleus emblematum selectissimorum.

In 1635 it was published in A Collection of Emblemes, Ancient and Moderne Quickened With Metrical Illustrations, both Morall and Divine, Etc by George Wither with the accompanying hymn:

A Heart, which bore the figure of an Eye

Wide open to the Sunne; by some, was us'd,

When in an Emblem, they would signifie

A Minde, which on Celestiall Matters mus'd:

Implying, by the same, that there is nought

Which in this lower Orbe, our Eyes can see,

So fit an Object for a manly thought,

As those things, which in Heav'n above us be.

God, gave Mankinde (above all other Creatures)

A lovely Forme, and upward-looking Eye,

(Among the rest of his peculiar Features)

That he might lift his Countenance on high:

And (having view'd the Beauty, which appeares

Within the outward Sights circumference)

That he might elevate above the Sphæres,

The piercing Eye, of his Intelligence.

Then, higher, and still higher strive to raise

His Contemplations Eyes, till they ascend

To gaine a glimpse of those eternall Rayes,

To which all undepraved Spirits tend.

For, 'tis the proper nature of the Minde

(Till fleshly Thoughts corrupt it) to despise

Those Lusts whereto the Body stands inclin'd;

And labour alwayes, upward to arise.

Some, therefore, thought those Goblins which appeare

To haunt old Graves and Tombes, are Soules of such,

Who to these loathsome places doomed were,

Because, they doted on the Flesh too much.

But, sure we are, well-minded Men shall goe

To live above, when others bide below.

And hey, guess what 4020, i.e., the number of the prophecy, symbolizes in Strong’s Concordance? Periergazomai, a Greek word meaning “to waste one's labor about something” — to meddle, going beyond proper boundaries (where a person doesn't belong); to fixate on what others are doing, instead of doing what the person himself is supposed to do.

It appears only once in the Bible:

2 Thessalonians 3:11: We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.

To make things slightly more interesting, in the Hebrew version of Strong’s Concordance 4020 has another meaning — migbaloth, meaning “twisted things, i.e. cords”. Which doesn’t make much sense until we read the actual passage:

Exodus 28:24 and two chains of pure gold, twisted like cords; and you shall attach the corded chains to the settings.

And compare it to the most recent post on the topic published directly by Word of God:

What if all these clues didn’t apply to Maggie and Nina, but Aziraphale and Crowley instead? What if Maggie served as a messenger — consciously or not — just like the toucan, delivering the prophecy to those who need it most?

“When the tempest comes and darkness and great storms, and the dead will leave their graves and walk the Earth once more and there will be great lamentations for the end is near, don’t lose hope, hold hands and look up.”

Basically what Aziraphale and Crowley already did when they performed the 25 Lazarii miracle, only with no interference from Gabriel this time around.

And, if both Strong’s Concordance and Maggie’s personal addition to her second pendant are to be believed, with a wedding band somehow involved in the process.

[snakegorl212006]

Intentions

“Lilia you don’t have to follow me everywhere you know” I stated as I looked at the flower arrangements “malleus is not here to guard you so I have to take his place orelse I’ll never hear the end of it” Lilia replied as he rolled his eyes. I just shook my head and continued with adjusting the arrangements. ‘Lilia looks more down than usual today, more tense..’ I thought. I saw that too. “Is there something you’re worried about Lilia” I asked as I looked at him. He said nothing “...you can lend me your thoughts. If you wish to..” I add fuel to the awkward atmosphere. Normally lilia would tell some joke by now. Different times I guess. “How do you truly feel about this arrangement” Lilia asked “...by this point. I’m still uncertain. Yes, i grew to care for malleus as i do a husband but this all seems too…quick” i replied “covenant. I fear you humans still have your own agenda. Now I asked, what do you want from Malleus?” Lilia asked, “I…I don’t know” I replied as tension rose, “I never thought of it” I quickly added. Lilia scans my eyes for some form of deception but fails. He sighs “perhaps I’m too paranoid.I only wish for the best for malleus.” lilia turns to look at me once more “ be careful of the days ahead. Only the heavens will know what happens next” 

lilia’s suspicion was right…. I wish I could’ve proved him wrong 

Midnight fell and I encountered a sleepless night.. ‘Humans still have their own agenda’. Perhaps this marriage isn't all what it seems.. I shook my head ‘no don’t think that’. I sat up from my bed anxious. Worried. I needed some air. I walked out of my room down the darken halls, and into the garden. The cold air was refreshing on my hot skin. As I sighed and began my late night stroll..”what are you doing up so late” a voice spoke from behind scaring me. It was lilia “...just taking a stroll…I couldn't sleep”  I replied as Lilia sighs “how troublesome…follow me” Lilia said as he turned away. We walked deeper into the forest until we encountered a dome.we entered the structure in which i was greeted by bats. I squealed and ducked as a swarm flew out into the night. A laugh was heard by the end of it “how pathetic, you really though they're gonna hurt you” Lilia laughs and i huffed “well yes how can i not”  lilia ignored me and turned to the few bats that were still there “what is this place” I asked “a bat sanctuary. This used to be our sanctuary for our messenger birds but it got removed so, bats decided to use this as a cave” Lilia explains “you take care of them” I asked and he hums holding one of the bats which hangs upside down. The atmosphere was peaceful underneath the moonlit night. Almost like the sound of the wind is luring me to sleep. Before I knew it, i was already In Lilia’s arms as he carried me back to my chambers as my tired body shuts down. “Good night y/n…” Lilia said

Good night and I’m sorry…

So sorry….

[lifeweaverspeach]

Random Lies of P things I think about

(even if they don't really matter)

a bit of spoilers!

1. If all of the puppet bosses are messengers from Romeo, when did he find out Pino was out? Like moments after he woke up, someone (probably one of the puppets) told him someone was out there killing/destroying them?

2. Doesn't really matter, but I wonder how many puppets from the Barren Swamp could possibly be there because programming The Grant Covenant into them didn't work and they were considered too dangerous for humans

3. For some reason when I saw Pino for the first time, I literally couldn't tell if he was a boy or a girl. Idk why but for me he just went through the whole gender spectrum and I love it. Pino is just giving ✨️gender✨️

4. Said this before and I'll say it again, I still think about how the game would look like if we could team up with Romeo. Maybe Venigni could do something that we could understand him outside the NG+, maybe we could get a few new cutscenes, a few interactions, perhaps special ending

5. Also when we're at the topic of Romeo, if we could team up with him and then chose to giive our heart to Geppetto, what would happen? Would Romeo die like the rest in the Real Boy ending? Would in some way, he would escape and then come back to the Hotel to talk to us about our decision? Or maybe we would get another cutscene were he stops us from the decidion?

[autumnslance]

FFXIV Write 2024: 11 Surrogate

A Desertwalkers Weird West AU Story (I did not intend to write any of the FC AUs, but such things happen. How the Strikers' perpetual helpfulness lands them a new home...)

“Now hold on just a minute,” Zaine said, staring at the Landsguard officer. The doppro rider stared back, impatience evident. “This was supposed to be a temporary position.”

“I am simply the messenger,” the officer replied with a shrug of his mottled shoulders. “Take it up with the city if you wish to change the terms of the contract.”

Zaine stared down at the paper before him. He had sort of fallen into helping Stonewood’s judiciary with the claims office, as he was a decent mediator, able to make friends with both locals and those coming to the plains of Xak Tural for work in the ceruleum refineries and railway expansion. There were land disputes, and water disputes, and animal issues, and crop concerns...

But he was just here for the interim. They would find a real officer from Tuliyollal to take over, and Zaine and his sister could move on, exploring the land as they had planned. Once things settled down a bit for Stonewood and the friends they had made here.

The writ from the city, delivered by the increasingly impatient Landsguard officer, not only confirmed Zaine permanently for the role, but expanded the responsibilities—as someone dealing with the local property issues would also be responsible for estate settlement and the probate of wills.

“I might have to,” Zaine said, a headache coming on. “I didn’t really think they would hire an immigrant drifter into such a position.”

Then again, he and Aeryn had stood up to Baelsar and his aggressive expansion on behalf of this town and neighboring communities. That probably had a chunk to do with it.

The officer chuckled. “What you get for being good at it,” he said. “And Tuliyollal is more concerned with what one chooses to do, than where one is from. We could not have formed our nation otherwise.”

“Suppose that’s true,” Zaine muttered. “All right, I won’t take more of your time. I’d best speak to my sister and see what we do from here.”

“Great. Have a good day,” the officer said, leaving before Zaine could get his own farewell in.

Well. All right then.

He closed up his office for the day (and it really was his office now, wasn’t it?) and stepped out into the hot, dusty street. He thought of getting a drink, thought better of it, and continued on to the schoolhouse, where Aeryn had been helping out.

Aeryn was outside, class apparently dismissed for the day. She was talking to one of the adolescent students, a petite redhead she seemed fond of. Or maybe it was the girl’s uncle, a smarmy, fair-haired, gunblade-using bodyguard for the local coven, and sometimes bouncer for the Cat’s Eye Cabaret. Normally Aeryn didn’t notice anyone who noticed her. But there was...something...in the way her and the bodyguard interacted that made Zaine’s brotherly hackles rise.

His sister saw him coming now, smiling and waving cheerfully, her student following suit. Nice girl, that Ryne. Her mum was a lovely blonde mining foreman, often busy, hence the girl spending more time with her uncle. There was some connection to the cabaret owner, too. Zaine hadn’t thought he needed to worry too deeply about complicated family dynamics around here.

Maybe he would have to start.

Ryne stayed long enough to greet him before skipping off to meet with her friends, taking the hand of a dark-haired gal as the youths rushed off. Aeryn let out a deep breath. “I have something to talk to you about,” she said with no preamble.

“I have something to talk to you about,” Zaine answered, walking with her toward the rooms they were renting. “You go first.”

“The superintendent rode out today,” she said. “They want to extend my contract.”

Zaine frowned. “Thought this teaching gig was a temporary thing?”

“I thought so too, but they’re having trouble finding anyone qualified willing to come out here, and I’m apparently doing well enough for the board and the parents both. And the children are all so good…”

“And you want to stay,” Zaine said.

“I’ve thought about it,” Aeryn admitted. “It still may not be forever, but...for awhile?” She looked over at him.

“Well,” he said. “That could work. Considering my interim position isn’t so interim now.”

“Were you fired?”

“What? No! Why is that your first assumption?”

She rolled her eyes. “I’ve only known you my whole life.”

“Whatever, smartypants. It’s the opposite actually. They made my role permanent.”

Aeryn hugged him, grinning. “This is a good thing, right?”

He hugged her back. “I mean, yeah. I didn’t really expect it so it caught me off guard.”

“This is what you get for standing up to Baelsar.”

“I guess. You did too, though, and that might have convinced the board to keep you around.”

She shrugged. “I helped a little. You did most of it.”

He shook his head. He couldn’t ever seem to convince her that she was, possibly, more instrumental to such actions than himself. She would continue to blow it off until getting angry if pushed, so he let her change the subject.

“If we’re staying, we need somewhere to live besides a couple rented rooms.”

“I’ve thought about it,” he said. “Funnily enough, I am aware of available land around here. There’s a couple acres just outside town that I think between the two of use we could afford and manage, with our other work.”

“When you say a couple—”

“Literally two.”

She considered that, then nodded. “It’d be nice to have our own place. Weird, maybe, but nice.”

They stopped at the same time and looked at one another. Zaine began to smile, which made Aeryn smile in return.

“All right,” he said. “I guess we’re staying.”

[darrowfire15]

TF2 x TOH AU Info

This will have BIG Spoilers for both TOH and TF2, so I suggest at least reading all the TF2 comics and watching TOH before proceeding.

Also, this is a very, very long post, so I suggest to strap yourself in.

Main 9 Mercs

Scout 

A half-witch, half-bipedal demon hybrid. Forced into Illusion magic, but wants to do Bard magic like his Ma. Grew up in Bonesburough and went to Hexside. He’s the first of the group to verbally speak out about the Coven system. 

Branded?: No

Palisman: A hare named Knucklehead.

Soldier

A witch who practices Beast Keeping and Abomination Magic, but mostly a Wild Witch (emphasis on “Wild”). Lived in the forests of another carcass before being brought to the Boiling Isles. Considers himself Merasmus’ best friend. 

Branded?: No

Palisman: A raccoon named Lieutenant Bites. 

Pyro

A bipedal demon who is a Wild witch. They are very skilled with fire magic, but was put in the Conformatorium for only using fire magic. They were released when the Mann brothers were looking for a pyromaniac. 

Branded?: No

Palisman: A unicorn named “Hudda Hudda” (no known translation)

Demoman

A witch who practices Potion magic and owns the biggest Apple Blood factory. Originally wanted to practice Bard magic, but was denied by his father. Was the first to create small portable exploding potions. 

Branded?: Yes

Palisman: A macaw named Aberdeen.

Heavy

A towering bipedal demon from the Knee who practices Abomination magic. Was forced to be branded when he accepted his job for the Mann brothers. He learned Abomination magic to keep his family safe. 

Branded?: Yes

Palisman: A bear named Sasha. 

Engineer

A Grimwalker of Radigan Conagher who practices Construction and Healing magic. His family has been working with the Mann family since the Savage Ages. He eventually helped make the technology to remove sigils.

Branded?: No

Palisman: None, built an artificial staff and uses artificial magic.

Medic

A witch who practices Healing magic, but is not part of the Healing Coven after some unethical experimentation. When Cmedic mysteriously disappeared, they reluctantly allowed him to become a Coven Head. He eventually helped make the technology to remove sigils. 

Branded?: Yes

Palisman: A dove named Archimedes. Sacrificed himself to heal Medic after Cheavy killed the witch. 

Sniper

A Titan under the impression he’s a Bipedal demon. Practices Oracle and Potions magic, but mostly a Wild Witch. He found out he was adopted when his parents died and found out he was a Titan when he went to learn more about where he was taken from.

Branded?: No

Palisman: An owl named Sir Hootsalot.

Spy

A bipedal demon who practices Illusions and is working for the Emperor's Coven. He goes undercover and locates Wild Witches to brand. Changes his appearance so Scout doesn’t suspect they’re related. Misses his palisman every time he sees everyone else use theirs. 

Branded?: Yes

Palisman: N/A

Emperor's Coven

The Administrator

A human who came to the Boiling Isles back in the savage ages. She leeches off other witches magic so she can live longer. Established the Emperor's coven. The Day of Unity was to give her eternal youth by draining everyone’s magic. Their "Belos", if you will. She tries, and fails, to drain the Mercs of their magic before the Day of Unity. 

Miss Pauling

A witch who works under the Administrator and is in the Emperor's coven. Very amused by Scout's flirting, but gets tired of it quick. She has no idea about the Day of Unity’s true plans. Didn’t have a palisman, just went straight to working for the Administrator. 

Branded?: Yes

Palisman: N/A

Administrator’s Messengers

Witches who work for the Administrator to deliver messages. Many of these messages are threats to known Wild Witches, but others are to just to send messages to the mercenaries. When they return, the Administrator drains them of their magic. 

Branded?: Yes

Palisman: N/A

Coven Heads

CHeavy

A bipedal demon. Head of the Abominations Coven.

CMedic

A half-witch, half-bipedal demon hybrid. Head of the Healing Coven.

Bea (CPyro)

A Beast demon. Head of the Bard Coven.

Virgil (CSniper)

A witch. Head of the Oracle Coven.

Fred (CEngineer)

A witch. Head of the Construction Coven.

Greg (CScout)

A witch. Head of the Plants Coven.

Ross (CSoldier)

A bipedal demon. Head of the Beast Keeping Coven.

CSpy

A Basilisk. Head of the Illusions Coven.

CDemo 

A bipedal demon. Head of the Potions Coven.

The Mann Family

Zepheniah Mann 

A witch who died in the Savage Ages and gifted his sons his land on the Boiling Isles and other titan carcasses. 

Branded?: No

Palisman: A German Shephard named Gravel. Gravel lives with the Bat Queen.

Redmond, Blutarch, and Gray Mann 

Three of the most powerful witches who have been alive since the Savage Ages. Redmond and Blutarch helped create the 9 main covens while Gray secretly backed the support of the Emperor's coven. Gray eventually killed his brothers and gained control of all the other covens. 

Branded?: Only Gray was branded. 

Redmond’s Palisman: A cardinal named Carmine. Carmine was taken by the Administrator. 

Blutarch’s Palisman: A blue jay named Azure. Azure was taken by the Administrator. 

Gray’s Palisman: An eagle named Silver. When he dies, Silver leaves to live with the Bat Queen.

Olivia Mann 

A young witch who lives in the Emperor's Castle and is Gray Mann’s daughter. She wants to learn Plant magic. 

Branded?: No

Palisman: N/A

Other Characters

Saxton Hale

A big burly Bipedal demon who has a goal to fight every known beast demon. Specializes in Beast Keeping Magic (somehow) and wants to hunt down all the Slitherbeasts. Lost his backing from the Emperor’s coven when he declined a Witches Duel against Olivia Mann. 

Branded?: Yes

Palisman: A lion named Leo.

Scout’s Ma

A witch who is the mother of 8 boys and practices Bard magic. She is a well known singer in the Boiling Isles, but wanted her sons to find something they like instead of following under her popularity. 

Branded?: Yes

Palisman: An oppossum named Rose.

Mr. and Mrs. Degroot

A pair of witches who ran the Isle’s most successful Apple Blood Factory. Mr. Degroot practiced Potion magic while Mrs. Degroot practiced Oracle magic. When Mr. Degroot passed, Tavish inherited his palisman.

Branded?: Yes

Palisman: Mrs. Degroot’s palisman is a bat named Squeaks. 

Mr. and Mrs. Mundy

A pair of bipedal demons who took in Sniper when finding his egg. Mrs. Mundy practices Plant magic and Mr. Mundy practices Beast Keeping magic. They lived on the left thigh of the titan on a farm until their deaths. 

Branded?: Yes

Palisman: Mr. Mundy is the only one with a palisman, a sheep named Woolly. Woolly went to live with the Bat Queen after they passed. 

The Titan

Sniper’s real father, the Boiling Isles himself. He’s been watching his son since the Mundys took him in. He hopes that someday he’ll be able to say hello to his son face to face. 

Radigan Conagher

A witch who worked all of his days behind the nine covens. He created the first artificial staff with artificial magic, as well as other great inventions. Unintentionally helped make the sigils stronger. When he died, Fred made a Grimwalker from his corpse and named him Dell.

Branded?: No

Palisman: A coyote named Ruth. When he died, she went to live with the Bat Queen. 

Heavy’s family

A family of Bipedal demons who escaped the Conformatorium after their father was petrified for going against the Coven System. They live on the Knee and hunt down beast demons to eat. Heavy stole palistrom wood and helped his sisters carve their palisman like their father did with him. 

Branded?: No

Palisman: 

Heavy’s mother lost her palisman when escaping the Conformatorium.

Zhanna has a wolverine named Fyodor.

Bronislava has a snowy owl named Swift.

Yana has a borzoi named Eva.

1850’s team

The first witches who bore an early version of the sigils. It left them paralyzed and they died in the snow on the Knee. Their palismen were taken by the Administrator and drained of their magic. 

Merasmus

A trapped Collector who lives in the skull of the Titan and aided the Administrator in perfecting the sigils. Sniper was the one to free him from his prison in exchange for the draining spell to stop. 

Branded?: No

Palisman: N/A

Spell Circle Colors

Red

The Administrator (Artificial Magic)

Medic

Redmond Mann

Greg

Orange

Pyro

Demoman

Mr. Degroot

Cheavy

Yana

Yellow

Saxton Hale

Scout

CDemoman

Mr. Mundy

Lime

CSpy

Merasmus

Green

Olivia Mann

Ross

Bronislava

Mrs. Mundy

Cyan

Engineer (Artificial Magic)

Spy

CMedic

Heavy’s mother

Radigan Conagher

Blue

Sniper (Titan magic)

Soldier

Blutarch Mann

Fred Conagher 

Scout’s Ma

Purple

Miss Pauling

Virgil

Zephaniah Mann

Mrs. Degroot

Magenta

Heavy

Zhanna

Bea

White

Emperor’s Coven

Gray Mann

Administrator’s Messengers

Storyline

Thousands of years ago, Titans roamed the demon realm and did as they pleased. Until the Collectors struck. They drove the Titans to extinction, the last Titan hiding his egg and capturing one of the Collectors named Merasmus. He captured the Collector before dying and decaying. That decay became the Boiling Isles. 

Life began to blossom on the carcass, along with the creation of magic within those creatures. These beings separated themselves as witches and demons. 

During the Savage ages, a human named Helen had stumbled in the Boiling Isles. She learned that by absorbing the magic of witches, she could stay young and beautiful. But her greed and crimes caused her to be run out of every town. To hide her identity, she went by the name Elizabeth and hid herself deep in the Isles. She drained any witch that crossed her paths. When traversing in the skull, she stumbled on Merasmus’ prison and promised to release him in return for an easier way to drain magic. 

One wealthy witch, Zephaniah Mann, would come to have three sons. One of the babies, Gray Mann, would be kidnapped by a Griffin. His remaining sons, Redmond and Blutarch, would grow up to be great witches. Of course, they always fought for everything from their father. 

When he was nearing his deathbed, Zephaniah split his lands between his two sons. Around this time, Elizabeth had heard about the brothers’ feud and snuck into their operation. Once he died, she approached the brothers and proposed a Coven system that would aid in their feud. Blind to her real intentions, the Mann brothers both supported her idea with enough Snails to make it happen. She gained the title “the Administrator” as she was head of the project. 

With Merasmus and the Mann Brothers, she began her work to stay young forever. Her first version of the sigils were attempted on the 1850’s team when their fighting term ended, meaning any casualties wouldn’t be a complete loss. The first version failed, but she still drained them of their magic and took their palisman. She didn’t have the right materials, but someone else did…

Radigan Conagher, a smart witch, was hired to begin working behind the scenes for the 9 covens. He talked to the Administrator about the use of the Sigils and helped perfect them, making them stronger so that magic would be cut off indefinitely. 

The Classic team was hired after the 1850’s team’s deaths, when the sigils were perfected. Because of the Mann Brother’s influence, witches slowly began getting sigils. After the Classic team’s fighting term for the Mann Brothers ended, they were promoted to be Coven Heads for the 9 covens by the Administrator. 

Another Coven, the Emperor’s Coven, soon came into play. It was promised to the Mann brothers that it would give them dominion and power over the other residents of the Isles. In reality, the Administrator was the one getting all the power secretly. She hid her work so well that not even someone from the Oracle Coven could see it. 

As time went on, the law on the Isles grew stricter to make sure that most witches had a sigil. Those who didn’t conform were called Wild Witches. They would either be sent to the Conformatorium and coaxed into getting branded, or publicly petrified if they fought back. Many Wild Witches were petrified early on just to instill fear, even when they agreed to being branded. 

Present day, the battles for the lands continue with a new group of mercenaries. Each from different backgrounds and abilities from the Covens. One of the mercenaries, the Scout, began to question the Coven System. Secretly, he began to look into the creation of sigils with other Mercenaries, the Heavy and Sniper. Their research was constantly vandalized by the Spy under the Administrator’s orders. But even he began to question everything.

Scout eventually explained his thoughts to the other mercenaries in private, away from the Administrator. Eventually, with more digging, they found that the Day of Unity was a disguise to drain everyone’s magic. They didn’t know to where though, just that magic was to be drained. 

When Redmond and Blutarch died at the hands of their brother, Gray Mann, the Mercenaries scattered by the command of the Administrator. He had been the one backing up the Emperor’s Coven financially. Publicly, he took over his brother’s positions, but the Administrator was still quietly in charge. 

As the Day of Unity approached quickly, the Emperor’s coven became more uptight about Wild Witches being branded. They commanded that everyone who had magic should be in a Coven or be thrown in the Conformatorium. All of the split-up mercenaries kept in contact with one another about how to stop the Day of Unity. Their letters would be intercepted eventually and shown to the Administrator.

Figuring that the mercenaries were close to discovering her true intentions, the Administrator sends out the Coven Heads to track them down and hold them hostage for the Day of Unity. Working for them unknowingly, Miss Pauling was also sent out to collect the mercenaries under the guise that they would be “extra protection” for the Day of Unity.

Medic was brought in as a replacement for CMedic, who mysteriously disappeared. He hid his palisman, Archimedes, from the Administrator so she wouldn’t take him. Despite the other Coven Heads knowing, they don’t tell on Medic because they want the Day of Unity to go smoothly. 

As Miss Pauling rounded up the mercenaries, the Sniper would discover that he’s a Titan when his parents passed. He would learn more when he convinced some of the rounded up mercenaries to join him to an uncharted island. As they explored the island and the tower, the Classic team cornered them and injured Sniper. 

The Classic team locks everyone in the Conformatorium, sending Sniper to be patched up by Medic. Secretly, Medic hatched a plan to fight back against the Coven Heads and told Sniper. A while after Sniper was in his cell, he broke out with the other mercenaries and ran out to face the Classic team. Medic joined as his mask around the Coven heads broke. 

Grouped together again, the TF2 Mercenaries have a confrontation with the Classic team. The Classic Mercenaries would get picked off one at a time, except Fred, who would run to return to the Administrator. During the fight, Medic dies at the hands of CHeavy and Heavy fights for his revenge. Archimedes would sacrifice himself to heal Medic just as the Classic team is beaten. To solidify their victory, the Classic team is petrified together. 

With no back-up Coven Heads to complete the draining spell, the Administrator decides to lure in the TF2 Mercenaries and Miss Pauling. She would use them as stand-ins, to finally have her eternal youth. 

Angry at the Administrator, Miss Pauling and the mercenaries make their way to the Emperor’s Castle. On the way, Coven scouts ambush them and knock them unconscious. When they come to, Sniper and Engineer are nowhere to be found. The mercenaries who weren’t branded before suddenly had sigils on their wrists. 

Engineer is taken to the side to study Sniper since learning he’s a Titan. He hastily creates a plan and tries to execute it as the hours count down to the Day of Unity. 

While he creates his plan, Engineer finds out that he’s a Grimwalker of his grandfather, Radigan Conagher. His father’s writings tell him everything he needs to know. Unfortunately, Fred finds his son going through his work and they have a tussle. During the fight, Fred brands Dell with the Oracle coven’s sigil, completing the set needed for the draining spell. 

Taking place in the Skull, the Day of Unity is about to commence and the Administrator forces the mercenaries to participate. Of course, they retaliate, but the draining spell activates before they can do anything. All of the Isles attempts to escape the Skull, but faint and/or pass out before they can. 

Sniper escapes from his cell as the spell begins. He finds Miss Pauling and, surprisingly, CMedic, and releases them both. CMedic was silenced after learning of the Administrator’s plans, but couldn’t be petrified quickly. All three travel to the Skull and find Merasmus, who is waiting to be freed by the Administrator. He recognizes Sniper as the last Titan and makes a deal; the draining spell stops in exchange for his freedom. 

Merasmus is freed by Sniper and he stops the draining spell with the snap of his fingers. Everyone survives, the Administrator disintegrates via Mother Gothel style, and the Isles is saved. But Merasmus immediately begins to change the scenery, stretching out his ability after being captured for so long. He forces Sniper to help him rule his new kingdom and creates a castle in the Skull.

The mercenaries, CMedic, and Miss Pauling flee the Skull with the other Boiling Isles residents as Merasmus expels his magic to the land. Miss Pauling brings them to a secret hideout underground so they can work on a plan to stop Merasmus. 

Meanwhile, Merasmus makes Sniper his Second in Command for his kingdom. He wants the power of the Titan all to himself to further his kingdom’s power. He also captured the residents of the Isles and as them either working or held in cells. No one is spared. 

Figuring he needed protection, Merasmus took some of the petrified Wild Witches and reversed the effects. Some of those witches were the Classic team. All but Greg and Ross were resurrected. 

As the months continue, Engineer continues to deal with the fact that he’s a Grimwalker, Medic is grieving from his palisman’s sacrifice, and those who were branded are trying to adjust to their confined abilities. Sniper sneaks out of the castle to meet up with them in secret. 

One day, after careful planning, the mercenaries and Miss Pauling decide to infiltrate the castle. Sniper had given them a map of the inside and drew out where they should go. Unfortunately, Merasmus caught on to what Sniper was doing. When he returned next, he held the Titan in a cage and prepared himself to fight the mercenaries. 

The TF2 team and Miss Pauling fight their way through the castle, taking down many wild witches before having one last confrontation against the Classic Team. CMedic tries to reason with CHeavy, but it’s no use and the Classic team gets beaten again. They run to the throne room and confront Merasmus. 

Miss Pauling tries to reason with Merasmus, standing between him and the TF2 team. While she talked, Merasmus created a ball of flames in his fist and threw it at her. To save her from the blast, Scout jumped in the way and tries to shield her. He gets hit and slowly turns to stone until he dies, disintegrating. Spy, in a fit of rage, attacked Merasmus head-on, setting off the other mercenaries. 

Drifting in the in-between, Scout meets the Titan himself, Sniper’s real father. He and the Titan talk about the Administrator and Merasmus, choices they made in life, and what could’ve been done. The Titan cannot remove the sigil on Scout’s arm, but he does trust the man to go back and fight against the Collector. Before Scout is revived, he asks if the Titan has any words for Sniper. Once he told the witch, the Titan revived him. 

Scout is resurrected and infused with the Titan’s magic as the mercenaries are progressively losing. Merasmus took Sniper and fled the throne room, leaving the others to briefly admire Scout’s new look. They split up in two groups; half would go and free the Boiling Isle residents, the other half goes after Merasmus. 

Medic, Heavy, Soldier, Miss Pauling, and Engineer go to the cells to free everyone. They escort everyone out of the castle as quickly as possible and Heavy reunites with his family. 

Scout, Spy, Demoman, CMedic, and Pyro run after Merasmus and Sniper. On the way, Merasmus set up some obstacles to slow them down. Spy and Scout have a father-son bonding moment as they blast away the obstacles. 

When they finally corner Merasmus, it’s on the room of the castle. Pyro and Scout distract the Collector while Demoman and Spy release Sniper. Scout used the rest of his power, combined with Sniper’s magic, to cast Merasmus out of the Demon Realm and deep into space. Once that’s done, Scout is returned back to normal as the Titan magic is used up. He tells Sniper what the Titan told him and Sniper feels content with the answer.

With the defeat of both Merasmus and the Administrator, the Boiling Isles started to slowly heal. The future few years change with the mercenaries as they find new occupations to busy themselves with.

Heavy begins a palisman carving business as the palistrom trees are replenished. He would carve Medic’s new Palisman, another dove named Hipparchus. 

Engineer, Medic, and CMedic work together to create a devise to remove sigils, which prove to be a success. Scout is the first to have his sigil removed. 

Spy and Scout are learning each other how to wield other magic types together. Spy has also acquired a palisman from Heavy. 

Soldier is in charge of a rehabilitation center for injured Beast Demons with his wife Zhanna. Pyro is his only other employee. 

Demoman’s Apple Blood business blooms, as well as his side job playing the piano in bars. He also has a business in selling Elixirs. Mrs. Degroot is still unpleased.

Sniper and Miss Pauling go off to discover more about Titans on other carcasses. They still come back to occasionally visit everyone. 

The Classic Team (those remaining) retire from their mercenary work and help rebuild the Isles.

Saxton Hale is still off fighting every Beast demon, venturing off to new lands for the thrill of nature. 

Gray Mann is petrified after trying to incorporate the Coven system in the new era. Olivia Mann lives as a normal witch studying both Plant and Potions magic.

[amorganva]

Romeo is the most extra character and I love him for it

I wanna gush about Romeo things I'm too lazy to draw....like how EXTRA IS THIS GUY?? He's amazing. ----------- Getting their Stalker weapons made: Carlo: I'll take a saber....it's clean, it's agile, versatile....You can replace the handle for better grip... Romeo: Scythe. Weapon maker taking the orders: P-Pardon? Romeo: SCYTHE. MAKE IT BIG. MAKE IT EXTEND BY LIKE 20 FEET. Carlo: That sounds really impra- Romeo: S-C-Y-T-H-E! And make it JAGGED. I want to shred my enemies. *Ojou laugh intensifies* ----------- Being made into a puppet: R: Take my ergo....make me a puppet... G: It's still just an experiment, we're not sure it'll work. R: Just do it... but I have one final request... G: Yes? R: GIVE ME A GIANT GUNDAM. And make it look cool. Royal. And turbo boosted legs. G: What?! Why?? R: Why not? ------------ And fighting P is like the first phase he's pushing him away to not hurt him and in the second phase it's almost like a dance like that one scythe move where he pulls you in close like you're dance partners.

If he fights like this as an awakened puppet then he must've had these moves as a human too, muscle memory and all that, and that's pretty sick. Romeo the performer. King of Hearts. And I feel like Romeo was popular at the charity house and Carlo was a bit less popular and more standoffish because he wasn't exactly a poor orphan so it might've rubbed people the wrong way a la Jon Snow at the wall but Romeo hung out almost exclusively with Carlo anyways because he saw that little soft, kind, lonely, vulnerable center in all the broody edginess.

I legit love Neowiz giving us these little tidbits about the characters to speculate and draw conclusions from and all...and making me care so much about the best friend of the main character. He's. So. Good. I can't recall the last time I've been so obsessed over a character. Edit: His "lair" is also inside the flippin opera He made an entire stage play thing to tell P about Geppetto instead of just telling him. Pretty sure that's not against Grand Covenant rules seeing as he was trying to send him messengers.... Romeo, what are you doing buddy lol

[kairologia]

The Triplicities in Hellenistic Astrology

In Hellenistic Astrology, triplicity is a term used to describe the division of the 12 Zodiac Signs into 4 elements (Fire, Earth, Air, Water), which represents the third level of dignity. Triplicity rulership on the other hand is the assignment of the Planets to these elements.

Each element has :

1. A main Triplicity Ruler for the day.

2. A main Triplicity Ruler for the night.

3. A cooperating Ruler.

They are divided thus:

What’s more, is that triplicity can be used to delineate house rulership in a way that brings more meaning to the qualities of each house. Here is a breakdown of it:

1st House Triplicity Lords:

— 1st lord describes the life, life force, preferences, desires and nature of the native, the first years of life, the beginning of any endeavor.

— 2nd triplicity lord indicates life, body and strength in the middle of life.

— 3rd lord represents the life, body and strength of the native, the final years and the end stage of life.

2nd House Triplicity Lords:

— 1st Lord: acquiring possessions at the beginning of life.

— 2nd Lord: acquiring possessions, wealth in the middle of life.

— 3rd Lord: acquiring possessions, wealth in the later years of the life.

3rd House Triplicity Lords:

— 1st Lord: older siblings (born before the native).

— 2nd Lord: middle siblings (close in age to the native).

— 3rd Lord: younger siblings (born after the native).

4th House Triplicity Lords:

— 1st Lord: Parents & ancestors. The father according to Ibn Ezra.

— 2nd Lord: lands, field, ancestry, real estate, homes, cultivated lands, buried treasure, concealed objects

— 3rd Lord: final outcomes, endings, prison, the final period of life, the end of anything.

5th House Triplicity Lords:

— 1st Lord: children, offspring, pregnancy, oldest child.

— 2nd Lord: pleasures, vices, enjoyments, love affairs, middle children, clothing, gifts, eating, drinking and things that bring one joy.

— 3rd Lord: messengers, the act of giving gifts, the youngest child.

6th House Triplicity Lords:

— 1st Lord: illness and recovery from illness, disease, sickness, medicine & pharmacy, injuries, wounds, poor health.

— 2nd Lord: employees & people working for you.

— 3rd Lord: small cattle, domestic animals, prison and confinement.

7th House Triplicity Lords:

— 1st lord: spouse, intimate partner(s), sex partner(s).

— 2nd lord: conflict, controversies, disputes, confrontations, war, adversarial relationships, litigation, thieves, open enemies.

— 3rd Lord: covenants, formal and legal agreements, business associates and partnerships.

8th House Triplicity Lords:

— 1st Lord: death, fear, grief, ruin, anguish of mind.

— 2nd lord: old things, anything ancient.

— 3rd Lord: inheritances and legacies from the dead.

9th House Triplicity Lords:

— 1st lord: travel & its objectives.

— 2nd Lord: religion, faith, ethics, honesty, religious observance.

— 3rd Lord: science, knowledge, wisdom, visions, premonitions, omens, divination, astrology, & related matters.

10th House Triplicity Lords:

— 1st Lord: authority, honor, high rank, governance, career, profession. The mother according to Ibn Ezra.

— 2nd Lord: reputation, fame, dignity, bravery, boldness, style of action, ability to lead.

— 3rd Lord: the stability and endurance of one’s authority or fame, professions.

11th House Triplicity Lords:

— 1st Lord: hopes, things given in trust, praise, commendations, recognition from others.

— 2nd Lord: friends, companions, allies, patrons.

— 3rd Lord: benefit or harm from friends or allies.

12th House Triplicity Lords:

— 1st Lord: secret enemies, sorrow, sadness, grief, poverty, fear, disgrace.

— 2nd Lord: imprisonment, fortune or misfortune, labor.

— 3rd Lord: large animals, enemies.

[naderdawah]

كَيْفَ يَكُونُ لِلْمُشْرِكِينَ عَهْدٌ عِندَ اللَّهِ وَعِندَ رَسُولِهِ إِلَّا الَّذِينَ عَاهَدتُّمْ عِندَ الْمَسْجِدِ الْحَرَامِ ۖ فَمَا اسْتَقَامُوا لَكُمْ فَاسْتَقِيمُوا لَهُمْ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُحِبُّ الْمُتَّقِينَ (7) كَيْفَ وَإِن يَظْهَرُوا عَلَيْكُمْ لَا يَرْقُبُوا فِيكُمْ إِلًّا وَلَا ذِمَّةً ۚ يُرْضُونَكُم بِأَفْوَاهِهِمْ وَتَأْبَىٰ قُلُوبُهُمْ وَأَكْثَرُهُمْ فَاسِقُونَ (8)

How can there be for the polytheists a treaty in the sight of Allah and with His Messenger, except for those with whom you made a treaty at al-Masjid al-haram? So as long as they are upright toward you, be upright toward them. Indeed, Allah loves the righteous [who fear Him]. (7)

How [can there be a treaty] while, if they gain dominance over you, they do not observe concerning you any pact of kinship or covenant of protection? They satisfy you with their mouths, but their hearts refuse [compliance], and most of them are defiantly disobedient. (8)

[talonabraxas]

There are three hierarchies of angels each of which contains three orders.

The Nine Choirs of Angels The Arrangement of the Angels of the Lord (according to Pseudo-Dionysius)

Let’s turn to the individual choirs so that we can examine the powers each have, and how they relate with one another.

Seraphim The seraphim are the angels closest to God. As such, they reflect most immediately the highest attribute of God manifest in cre­ation: His love. They are on fire with the love of God; the very name means “incandescent ones” or “burning ones.” Classical sa­cred art portrays them as entirely red and ablaze. They are usually depicted as having six wings but no faces — simply a sea or ring of flame around the Holy Trinity. Because of this burning love, more than any other angel they have the most perfect knowledge of God, which makes them the most perfect adorers. St. Jerome notes that they not only burn by themselves, but they also inflame others with the love of God.

According to the prophet Isaiah, the seraphim are the angels whom he hears crying out “Holy, holy, holy,” as one of them purifies Isaiah’s mouth with a coal from the altar so that he might serve as the Lord’s messenger (Isa. 6:3–8). In the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Mass, the priest evokes this moment as he prays for worthiness in proclaiming the Gospel. We too should pray to the seraphim that we might be purified in our responsibilities as teachers and bearers of the Word to our families, our friends, and all those over whom we have responsibility. It was a seraph who appeared to St. Francis of Assisi when he received the stigmata. Later mystics, too, will speak of the seraphim as the Lord’s messen­gers and intermediaries when they had extraordinary experiences of loving and transforming divine union.

Cherubim The cherubim have a deep intellectual knowledge of divine se­crets and of the ultimate causes of things; their name means “all-knowing one.” As such, they constantly contemplate the wisdom and the love of God in His relationship with mankind. They reflect His omniscience. The cherubim were the mighty adorers of the first covenant in its wisdom; images of the cherubim were the only images of beings that were permitted in the ancient Temple of Jerusalem. Their carved figures adorned the lid of the Ark of the Covenant, which prefigured both the Virgin Mary “taberna­cling” the unborn Christ and the Eucharistic tabernacles of our churches, containing the new manna of Christ’s sacramental Body and Blood. Embroideries of the cherubim also covered the beautiful drapery that separated the Holy of Holies from the outer court of the Temple. It was that veil that was ripped from top to bottom when Our Lord died on the Cross as the sign that He had passed into the Eternal Sanctuary and that the Temple of Jerusalem had fulfilled its purpose (Matt. 27:51). The cherubim are still consid­ered protectors of the New Covenant and so are often depicted on tabernacles and Eucharistic vessels.

Thrones The thrones, as their name suggests, can be thought of as be­ings raised up to form the seat of God’s authority and mercy. A throne manifests the glory and authority of a king; it expresses stability and power. And since a throne is also a judgment seat, these angels are especially concerned with divine judgments and ordinances.

In the early Church, a common representation of God’s glory in Heaven was a mosaic behind the altar and above the seat of the bishop that represented an empty throne with a radiant cross mounted above it. This image represented Christ the King, Lord of all and Judge of the living and the dead. But His judgment seat was also a throne of mercy, for Christ has redeemed the world by His Cross. His love has brought us to salvation. The thrones are never seen or experienced as “flying” but as “rolling” across the heavens, in keeping with their manifesting the Lord’s stability.

* * *

The second hierarchy receives knowledge of divine secrets through the first three choirs — knowledge that they could not perceive by themselves. The ardor of the seraphim inflames their love; the wisdom of the cherubim reveals the depth of the mysteries; and the stability of the thrones draws them into constant adoration of God’s majesty. In the Summa Theologiae, St. Thomas teaches that the names “domination,” “power,” and “principality” belong to government in different ways. The place of a lord is to prescribe what is to be done, and so Gregory says that “some companies of the angels, because others are subject to obedience to them, are called dominations.”

Dominations The dominations are concerned with the government of the uni­verse. They are the first of the three choirs in the second ring, which is the ring of the cosmos — the angels who are charged with great and universal stewardships. The dominations in particular are involved in the workings of divine power. They coordinate the ministries of all the angels who deal with creation. We see in the angelic world that the Church’s teaching that God works through secondary causes is beautifully demonstrated. The angels mediate God’s power just as the saints intercede for us with Him.

Virtues St. Peter mentions the virtues in his first epistle (3:22), as does St. Paul in his Letter to the Colossians (1:16). The name is in some way a mistranslation or at least a “false cognate,” since this choir of angels does not deal with acquired habits (virtues), but rather exercises innate, raw power over the physical universe. According to Pseudo-Dionysius, their name refers to “a certain powerful and unshakable virility welling forth into all their Godlike energies, . . . mounting upwards in fullness of power to an assimilation with God; never falling away from the divine life through its own weakness, but ascending unwaveringly to the super-essential Virtue which is the Source of virtue.”1 They are the lords of causality and the principles of cosmic order in the material realm. They ensure the well-being of the world.

Powers The powers (dunameis) form the third and last choir of the sec­ond angelic hierarchy, according to Pseudo-Dionysius, while other scholars and spiritual writers consider them to be the fifth choir. This choir is mentioned occasionally in the Old Testament, such as in the book of Daniel where we read, “Bless the Lord, all pow­ers, sing praise to him and highly exalt him for ever” (Dan. 3:39). Some scholars maintain that the name “powers” is also used to indicate angels in general, since it is the Septuagint’s translation of the Hebrew sabaoth. In the New Testament St. Paul writes that there are powers who have remained faithful to God and powers who have fallen away and become part of the empire of Satan (Eph. 6:12). The choir of powers is thought to introduce man to the higher mysteries while repressing the attacks of the “hostile powers” of Hell against the deepest laws of physical creation.

* * *

The third sphere of angels is concerned with Almighty God’s plan of salvation for mankind. It receives from the highest sphere its focus on the immutability of God, which is manifested in creation by the harmonious principles and intelligent organization of the laws of nature, which are upheld by the angels of the second sphere. In turn, the angels of this third sphere pour out their influence on those who have the greatest interaction with us in the ordinary course of things established by God.

Princes or Principalities The princes are also described as having members who have fallen away and others who have remained faithful. Principalities are the leading choir of the last hierarchy of angels. Their activities are described by Pseudo-Dionysius in this way, “The name of the Celestial Principalities signifies their Godlike princeliness and au­thoritativeness in an Order which is holy and most fitting to the princely Powers.” They are often seen as being the guardians of nations or peoples; this is why St. Michael is described in the book of Daniel as “the prince of Israel,” who comes to the aid of Gabriel against the demonic prince of Persia. It seems fitting that this first choir in the “ring of salvation” should also look after the spiritual structure of the supernatural life of the Church.

Archangels This choir is the most known and loved in popular devotion. Among the archangels we find St. Michael, St. Gabriel, and St. Raphael. It is traditionally believed, due to the statements of Ra­phael in the book of Tobit, that there are only seven archangels.

Three of their names occur in Scripture, and so the Church uses these names in our worship — St. Michael, the prince of the heav­enly host and the only one called “archangel” in the Scriptures; St. Gabriel, the messenger of the Incarnation; and St. Raphael, the angel of healing and of medicine.

The names of the other four are not used in our Liturgy, though there are certain churches that preserve these names and make use of them in private devotion, including some Eastern Catholic Churches. Roman Catholics of­ten refer to them as the seven archangels or the seven assisting spirits around the throne of God.

The seven archangels have been regarded from the very begin­ning as having a special place in God’s plan; their number is often associated with the seven days of the week and the seven sacraments. It is thought that the archangels were outstanding in their fidelity to God, and so in the writings of the saints they are often called archan­gel princes, an appellation that connotes leadership and authority in the heavenly realm. Many spiritual authors and mystics speak of their special assistance and often attribute other “groups of seven” to their protection or patronage — virtues, gifts of the Holy Spirit, and so on. The archangels are also associated with the protection of nations, dioceses, religious communities, and the mission of the Church.

Angels The ninth and final choir of angels is composed of those who are most involved with the doings of mankind. These angels are those who are sent out on missions from God and from whom the guard­ian angels are chosen. The angels who fill up this choir may be the lowest, but they are beloved because the Lord places them at our sides to watch over us and to care for us. They are the ministers of Christ’s love and our protectors. They defend us against harm and temptation. They warn us of impending evil and inspire us to remain faithful to God in prayer.

[rucbarthatbowtiesarecooldw]

Sunday Afternoon Session

Conducting: Quentin L Cook

Come Rejoice

D Todd Christofferson

A limiting trait is not being valiant in your testimony

Wholehearted devotion is what we should strive for

To make it to and stay in the Celestial Kingdom we must have a firm testimony of Jesus Christ and act on that testimony

Being Valiant in your testimony of Christ

Includes nurturing and strengthening that testimony

Heading His messengers

Encouraging others by word and example

We will not let anything keep us from being together forever

Do the things Jesus shall teach and command you

Taylor G Godoy

God hears our prayers and answers them in a personalized way

Mosiah 5:12

This life by its nature brings about experiences

Call Him, don’t fall

Just because you aren’t answered immediately doesn’t mean your call wasn’t answered at all

Confidence in the Lord’s answers requires accepting that they are not always what would expect in our minds for them to be.

The Lord is the first option for help

Call Don’t Fall (pray)

After prayer do all you can to obtain the answers you pray for

Humbly accept His answers

Softly and Tenderly, Jesus is Calling

Gary E Stevenson

Where is the foundation of your bridge?

The two towers are love the Lord thy God and love your neighbor as thyself – these are the towers that the bridge of the gospel is supported by

Loving the Lord leads to eternal Happiness

Bridges our heavenly upward gaze to our heavenly outward gaze

Love of the Lord is not complete if we do not love our neighbors

Loving your neighbors includes Christlike deeps of love and service

How are you building your tower of love?

“did God call on you specifically, or were you simply the one who listened?”

These towers need to function together in balance, equal devotion, and harmony

God loves everyone and so should we; we seek out those in need and serve them regardless of race, wealth, gender identity, sexual orientation, or anything else

God commanded us to love one another. Leave judgement up to Him

How do we build our own bridge of faith and devotion?

Early drafts become polished blueprints

Mathias Held

Consequences are a part of agency

Repentance is where growth happens

Seek to learn and accept support from the Lord

In the darkness of night we can turn on our lights

We can still choose how to respond to things out of our control

We are agents not objects.

Opposites don’t exist apart from each other, they can complement each other.

Where there is sunshine, shadows must be there too. Floods brings destruction but they bring life as well

Our difficulties do not define us – it is our attitudes and choices that define us much better than our situations

How Firm a Foundation

Niel L Anderson

It is breathtaking to see the works of God

Discipline your faith, what does that mean to you?

Eleazer Cearcy – sealing story – this is why listen to promptings

Angels have charge over us

Through the power of the Holy Ghost we are filled with strength and peace and joy and unspeakable hope.

Many different ways to see the face of Christ and no better place than in His holy house

Mark L Pace

Transform our homes into sanctuaries of faith

The scriptures are here to help us draw closer to Him

How can you avoid personal apostasy?

We are responsible for our own personal spiritual growth

The most important copy of the book of Mormon is the one you read

Heavenly Father wants you to know yourself – but you must put in the effort

Russell M Nelson

Called to apostles 40 years ago!

Six temples when he was born

Ponder what the Lord’s promise means for you personally

The priesthood was restored prior to the church – to ensure that the church could be organized with the correct authority

The priesthood keys are the only way we get the essential ordinances and covenants, the only way we can have blessings the way we do – we can extend all the blessings promised to/by Abraham to all God’s children

D&C 110

The gathering of Israel is evidence God loves all of His children everywhere

The gospel of Abraham is further evidence that God loves all of His children everywhere

The sealing power is supreme evidence that God loves all of His children everywhere and wants them to return to Him

Study Kirtland temple dedicatory prayer in D&C 109

Regular temple worship will enhance how you see yourself

The temple empowers us to take on the challenges of life

You do not have to face life alone

What courage does it give you to know that angels really will help you?

No combination of wickedness will prevail over those who worship in the house of the Lord

Nothing will help you more to hold fast to the iron rod than attending the temple as regularly as you can, nothing will protect you more, nothing will bolster your testimony of Christ and His atonement, or recognize the significance of His plan, nothing will soothe your spirit more, nothing will open the blessings of Heavens more

15 temples:

Uturoa, French Polynesia

Chihuahua, Mexico

Florianopolis, Brazil

Rosario, Argentina

Edinburgh, Scotland

Brisbane, Australia South Area

Victoria, British Colombia

Yuma, Arizona

Houston, Texas South Area

Des Moines, Iowa

Cincinnati, Ohio

Honolulu Hawaii

West Jordan Utah

Lehi Utah

Maracaibo, Venezuela

Now Let Us Rejoice

[fluffy-appa]

Narrated ʿAbd Allah ibn Buraydah: The Messenger of ʿAllah ﷺ said: "The covenant between us and them is the Salat, so whoever abandons it he has committed disbelief."

Source: [(74:42-43), Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim (82), Tirmidhi (2621), Sahih (Authentic)]