#of keeping someone alive in our memories and our belief

[istayawakereading]

Kristen saying “Doubt has given me so much relief,” the montage of everyone outside of the briefcase scrambling to make things ok again (Sandra Lynn trying to save Lydia, Aelwyn desperately casting spells to help them) and then Cassandra hitting us with “If you remember me, I cannot be fully gone” was actually too much for me to emotionally handle, thanks 🫶

[incognit0slut]

Right Kind of Wrong (12)

She never thought she would be involved in a murder investigation and encounter her one-night-stand again, the awkward guy who isn’t exactly that good in bed—Or is he? Offended by the sentiment, Spencer is determined to prove her wrong… But as he gets tangled with the beautiful stranger, he realizes there is more to her than what meets the eye.

Part Summary: Spencer gets closer to the truth while she feels suffocated by the situation. wc: 4.3k

Series Warnings: 18+ explicit content, graphic details of murders, mentions of suicide, mentions of SA

a/n: Let me give you a long part as a token of my apology for being a slow writer. I hope this was worth the wait

Other parts: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14

"WE BELIEVE WE ARE DEALING WITH A MALE OFFENDER IN HIS LATE 20s TO EARLY 30s," Aaron Hotchner announced, his voice loud and jarring. "Based on the crime scenes, the Unsub doesn't have a lot of experience as they were most likely done in a moment of rage."

The team stood in front of the bullpen, facing a room full of officers and agents scattered along the space. Pens clicked and notepads rustled around them as everyone prepared to add insights to their unfolding narrative.

Rossi, who stood by the evidence board, skimmed his eyes across the room. "It suggests someone who is impulsive and might have difficulty controlling urges. This could also be a sign of an underlying mental illness."

"It's likely that there is some kind of history there, either of abuse or trauma in their childhood," JJ added. "It seems that the Unsub may have difficulty connecting with or relating to others and may be socially isolated as a result. He would mostly like to keep to himself."

Spencer took a step forward and carried on with their profile of the unidentified suspect. "The Unsub might also have grown up in a deeply religious environment. Their beliefs may have become twisted and distorted, leading them to believe that they possess a unique calling to carry out their crimes as a way of punishment."

"Based on the victims, the Unsub has targeted specific people whom they believe have harmed one of our witnesses," Morgan added, his voice seeming to turn deeper as he continued, "Y/n L/n."

A jolt of electricity surged through Spencer's consciousness. The human mind really was a powerful thing. Somehow the simple sound of her name projected the memories he had of her and suddenly he was seeing her face, her radiant smile, her beautiful eyes—he was seeing her so clearly as if she were standing right before him.

But then Emily moved past him, jolting him awake from his reverie as she bumped against his shoulder. "The Unsub has a sense of loyalty to her that they are acting out these crimes as a desire for retribution on her behalf. They might believe that they have a connection or some kind of relationship with Ms. L/n."

"We believe the Unsub might know her personally," Hotch addressed, his eyes, sharp and penetrating, scanning around him. "Go through places where the witness is most likely to go. This could be her neighborhood, workplace, daily commute, and so on."

The atmosphere seemed to shift as he finally dismissed the room. Everyone rose from their seats, each one heading to their respective posts and assignments. It didn't take long for the phones to ring in the background, followed by the constant shuffle of feet as the entire space started to come alive.

And as Spencer turned back to his desk, a familiar man pushing the glass doors of the office suddenly caught his attention. His steps faltered while the man looked around the room as recognition hit him. Spencer walked over, addressing him as one of the witnesses. "Mr. Adler?"

The other man blew out a sigh of relief. "Eric, please." He entered the office and gave Spencer a look. "The people downstairs told me I could find you here."

"You were looking for me?" He frowned. "Is there anything I can help you with?"

"I hope so," Eric replied. "Has there been any missing person report lately?"

The confusion on his face grew prominent at the question. "Not that I know of. Why? Is someone you know missing?"

"A coworker of mine hasn't shown up to work and I can't contact any of his family members," he explained. "I'm starting to get worried."

"What's his name?"

"Oliver Walsh."

Having an eidetic memory helped him recall the name easily. His mind went through all the information he gathered these past few days and remembered the exact name written on the list of employees. "When did you last see him?"

"Three—no, four days ago. He left work looking very troubled."

Spencer's brow was furrowed, his eyes fixed unwaveringly on Eric's. "Troubled?"

Eric nodded. "He seemed distracted."

"Do you have any idea why he acted the way he did?"

"No," he responded. And then it suddenly happened. His eyes, previously engaged in maintaining eye contact, drifted upward for a fleeting second. It was as though a switch had been flipped in his mind and the gears of his memory whirred to life. "Although he did seem to act different that day... especially towards Y/n."

His stomach churned. A subtle tremor coursed through his limbs, betraying the unease that was slowly but unmistakably creeping into his consciousness. "...Y/n?"

"You remember her, right? She was with me the night it happened."

Remember her? She was the only person he couldn't stop thinking about. Spencer cleared his throat and leaned forward. "I'm aware Ms. L/n was also a witness."

"Well, Oliver has been fixated on her for so long, everyone in the office knows this. Y/n mostly thinks of it as a joke but I don't think Oliver sees it the same way as she does."

"And something happened between them on the day you last saw him?"

"I'm not sure." Eric sighed. "I saw them talking after work hours, and by the looks of it, I think Y/n was pissed at him." He then crossed his arms, his brows in deep concentration as he seemed to be recalling that day. "She looked like she was under a lot of stress, actually."

"Did you hear what they were talking about?"

"No. But after that, Oliver didn't seem like himself anymore. Then he didn't come to work the next day..." Eric trailed off, his eyes casting down before he mumbled, "I still don't know where he is now."

Spencer's mind suddenly became a whirlwind of calculated chaos, connecting the dots with lightning precision. His heart raced in his chest, pounding out a rhythm of urgency that echoed in his ears. There was no room for hesitation, no luxury of second-guessing.

He needed to move fast.

"Emily!" He called out as he saw his friend walking past them, quickly stopping her pace at the mention of her name. "Can you help Mr. Adler file a missing person report?"

"Uh..." she looked between the two men, uncertainty written across her face. There were questions lingering at the tip of her tongue but she stopped herself when she saw the urgent look Spencer was throwing at her. "Of course," she decided to agree, her attention shifting to the other man. "Right this way."

With a swift, purposeful stride, Spencer left them behind, his footsteps echoing the urgency that had taken hold of him. His heart was still racing when he walked down the corridor, quickly making his way to the room down the hall.

The door swung open with a resolute push, and he entered the room, his senses on high alert. "Garcia."

"I wasn't doing anything!" The woman sitting before him shrieked, closing the window tabs on the screen in front of her. Usually, Spencer would tease her on how unprofessional it was to be doing something else that wasn't related to work, but he didn't have the time to engage in playful banter.

Spencer stepped behind her, placing a hand on the back of her chair. "Garcia, I need you to find Oliver Walsh for me."

She wasted no time. Her fingers danced across the keyboard with a rapid, almost feverish intensity. "Oliver... Walsh..." The soft clatter of keys echoed in the room as she navigated through files and databases. "There are too many Oliver Walsh in this country."

"He works at the same company as Y/n."

"Should've mentioned that sooner." Her eyes scanned lines of text, images, and documents in front of her. "Bingo. Oliver Conrad Walsh was born on 18th December 1991 as an only child—wait, look at this. His family was part of The Haven Hill... a sanctuary of unwavering faith and profound tranquility?"

"Is it some kind of a cult?"

"I don't think so." Her eyes landed on an old article buried within the archives and clicked on the link before a picture of a worn-out brochure greeted them. "Prospective members are welcomed into Haven Hill, a secluded and serene enclave where faith and tradition unite. It seems like a very tight-knit community with a very religious belief—oh!"

Her fingers moved as she navigated through digital records. "Reid..."

"What is it?"

The screen suddenly displayed a grim history of illicit activities and misdeeds, a virtual breadcrumb trail leading them closer to the truth.

"Oliver Walsh was far from being a saint albeit growing up in a religious environment. Along with his group of friends, he was constantly rebelling ever since a very young age. He had to do a lot of community service for it too; underage drinking, burglary, public disturbances—oh dear."

"Attempt sexual assault?" Spencer read out loud.

"...a group of underage boys was proved guilty of trying to violate a fourteen-year-old girl on school grounds—"

"Garcia," Spencer stopped her, not wanting to listen to the rest of the story. "Give me his current address."

"Already on it," she responded, her fingers hovering over the keyboard.

Spencer's heart pounded in his chest. He couldn't believe this, the suspect was no longer a shadowy figure; they were becoming real, tangible, and within his grasp. Then his eyes caught the shot of the man on the screen. A jolt of recognition surged through him as he scrutinized the suspect's image on the screen. The face staring back at him carried a haunting familiarity.

Memories raced through his mind like flickering images from the past. He remembered him, he always remembered people's faces, and that man right there was the same man he had seen in Y/n's house that afternoon. There was a huge chance this was all a coincidence.

But there was also a possibility of Oliver Walsh being the Unsub.

He didn't know which one was true, but what he did know was that he needed to find out the truth.

The sudden, shrill ring of his phone shattered the intensity of the moment. It was a jarring intrusion, snapping him back to the present. With a swift, almost automatic motion, Spencer reached for the device and answered the call without looking away from the screen. "Yes?"

"Agent Reid," the person on the other line greeted, their words rushed in a moment of panic. "I can't find her."

Spencer pulled his phone away from his face and glanced at the caller ID. Officer Anderson. A sense of relentless panic coursed through him as the realization hit like a lightning bolt. He felt a knot tighten in his stomach, a visceral reaction to the gravity of the call.

"What do you mean you can't find her?"

"I—" There was a sigh. "I-I was watching inside my car and I somehow ended up sleeping. She's nowhere inside the house now—"

"Did you call her?"

"She left her phone in the kitchen."

At that moment, he was acutely aware of every heartbeat, every pulse of blood coursing through his veins. Panic resounded through his thoughts, casting a dark shadow over him. It was a visceral, gut-wrenching sensation that threatened to paralyze him like the ground had suddenly shifted beneath his feet.

"I apologize, Agent Reid."

But then anger coursed through his body. He was suddenly angry—Angry at the situation, angry at the Unsub, angry at the officer who couldn't seem to do his one simple job. His jaw clenched, his knuckles turned white as he gripped the phone tighter, and his eyes flashed with fury.

"Being sorry isn't going to help you find her," he snapped. He then straightened himself. "I'll be there in ten."

"What happened?" Garcia whispered, noticing the sudden tension in his shoulder.

Spencer shoved back his phone and turned to her. "Garcia, I need you to inform the others, I have to go."

"What?!" She yelped, watching as he turned away from her. "Right now? Where are you going?"

But her question was left unanswered as he bolted out of the door.

There was no other way to explain what being followed by a disguised officer felt like. It was suffocating. Even everything felt suffocating these days, and when she meant everything, Y/n really meant everything.

At first, the idea of protection had offered comfort, but now it was an oppressive weight that bore down on her shoulders. Everywhere she turned, a shadow loomed, an unwelcome reminder of the loss of her freedom. The suffocating sensation was inescapable, restricting her every movement.

The constant surveillance had pushed her to the brink of stress and manifested in the form of tension that coiled within her, ready to snap at the slightest provocation. Her patience wore thin and the weight of anxiety rested heavy on her chest. One moment she was on the verge of tears, the next, she was snapping with sharp words, irritable and sullen.

She really needed a break.

"You should go to the gym," Sandy had suggested the other day. "It might help relieve the stress."

After debating whether it was a good idea to visit the gym when she couldn't even remember the last time she stepped foot on a treadmill, she finally decided to slip out of the house. She walked over to the black car she already grew familiar with and stood by the window—only to find Officer Anderson fast asleep behind the wheels.

A pang of guilt tugged at her, but the allure of temporary freedom was too strong to resist. It was an unexpected opportunity, a rare moment of freedom dangling before her like a tempting prize. Was it wise to leave without informing him? Probably not. But she couldn't imagine herself working out—all awkward, tired, and sweaty—with Officer Anderson watching her from the corner.

So silently, she retraced her steps. Her pulse quickened with a mix of trepidation and exhilaration as she walked away. It would be fine, she had assured herself. She would be back before he realized she was even gone. And with that thought in mind, she quickly made her way to the closest gym around the corner.

The place felt both familiar and foreign as she navigated the equipment, but she finally found her place in an exercise routine. Her muscles protested the unaccustomed effort, but with each movement, she could feel the tension slowly dissipating. It wasn't until she could barely feel her limbs anymore that she stopped and left the place.

Even though her body was aching from pushing her body to its limit, she did feel slightly better. Her steps also did feel lighter when she walked back to her home, and her mind felt calmer, and less chaotic than it did when she left her house. But as she approached her street, a knot of unease tightened in her stomach.

The evening's fading light cast long, ominous shadows that seemed to reach out and embrace her front door, which stood ajar. It was an unexpected sight, one that sent a chill down her spine. Two things flashed into her mind at that very moment. One, she realized Officer Anderson was nowhere in sight. His usual parked car looked very much abandoned with no one inside the vehicle. Two, she could probably die if she entered her house alone in this state.

Maybe she should call the police. Maybe she should call Spencer... Yeah right, she didn't even have his number. Maybe she should just call Agent Jareau. Or Agent Prentiss. Yes, that would be a wiser option than to—shit. She clutched her empty pockets.

She didn't even bring her phone to begin with.

She cursed to herself. This was a bad, bad decision. She was probably going to regret this, but she couldn't just stand there and do nothing. So very cautiously, she approached her house, her senses on high alert.

As she pushed the door open wider, it revealed a slice of the dimly lit interior. She couldn't help but hold her breath as she stepped over the threshold, her footsteps hesitant, almost reverent, on the creaking floorboards.

She stepped deeper into her home and slowly entered the dimly lit kitchen. Her breath caught in her throat as she saw a figure standing shrouded in shadows, a silhouette in the gloom. A gasp of shock emitted through her lips, but as her eyes adjusted to the darkness, recognition washed over her like a tidal wave.

"Officer Anderson!" She yelled, placing a hand over her heart. "You scared me!"

"Ms. L/n," he breathed out, his expression softening when he saw her. "Where have you been?"

Guilt washed over her as she noticed the concern in his eyes but she quickly dismissed it, stepping further into the room, and grabbing a water bottle from the fridge. "I went to the gym."

"Why didn't you tell me? I'm supposed to accompany you—"

"You were asleep, I didn't want to wake you."

"You should've woken me up, Ms. L/n."

"You looked like you could use some sleep," she mentioned before glancing at the clock perched on the wall. "I was only gone for like an hour, it's not a big deal."

Officer Anderson looked like he wanted to argue with her, but stopped himself before letting out a sigh. "Can you please inform me whenever you step out of the house, even when I might be asleep?"

His concerned gaze met hers as he turned to her, a mixture of relief and worry in his eyes. Guilt twisted in her chest as she nodded. "Alright, I will."

"And please bring your phone with you at all times."

Her eyes snapped towards the device sitting on the counter. "I did forget to bring it with me, I'm sorry."

With a nod, the officer excused himself, giving her a moment of privacy to collect her thoughts. She watched him go, his retreating figure a testament to his dedication, despite the surprise of her brief absence.

Feeling overwhelmed by the mix of emotions—being scrutinized by an authority, being a potential target of a serial killer still on the loose—she retreated to her room, seeking solace in the familiar confines of her private space. She quickly peeled off her clothes which clung to her body from all the sweat and stepped into her bathroom.

The sound of running water filled the room as she turned on the shower, its warmth a soothing embrace. Steam enveloped her, and as the water cascaded over her body, the tension that had coiled within her began to unravel. Under the gentle caress of the water, she closed her eyes. Her shoulders trembled with the tension she had carried for so long, the weight of guilt, responsibility, and emotions too complex to unravel.

How had things turned the way it did? A few weeks ago her life seemed normal, yet now she was linked to a crime with her name at the center of it. This felt so unfair. Why her? Why now? Wh—

Bang!

She opened her eyes.

What was it now?

It sounded... it sounded like a thud coming from somewhere in her house.

The sudden interruption jolted her from the sanctuary of the shower. Her heart raced as she hastily wrapped a towel around herself and emerged from the bathroom, water droplets glistening on her skin. The door to her room suddenly wrenched open with force before a figure she last expected walked in.

"What the—Spencer!" She gasped, not believing who she was seeing. "What the hell?!"

His gaze met hers, and she saw something in his expression that sent a shiver down her spine. It was an anger she hadn't seen before, a storm brewing beneath the surface of his usual calm demeanor. His jaw was clenched, and his normally warm eyes were steely and cold.

"Are you crazy?" He suddenly snapped.

"Me?" She wailed, tightening the towel around her body. "Are you crazy? What are you even doing here?"

"What were you thinking going out without notice?" Spencer's tone was incredulous, his anger unabated. "Without informing Officer Anderson?"

So this was why he was here? To confront her reckless action perhaps?

She scoffed, crossing her arms over her chest. "He looked like he needed the sleep after constantly watching me with little to no rest."

Spencer's frustration deepened, his brows furrowing. "He's assigned to you to keep you safe. You can't just disappear like that, it's irresponsible."

"Well excuse me for being considerate," she retorted.

"You were being reckless."

"No," she argued. "I was being thoughtful."

"Why are you not taking this seriously?" His voice grew sharper, a desperate attempt to make her understand as he stalked towards her. "Can't you understand you were putting yourself at risk?"

"I was only gone for an hour."

"Something could've happened!"

"But nothing did!"

She met his frustration with a defiant glare, holding her ground as he approached her, his tall, intimidating frame only stopping when he was directly in front of her. She saw his eyes drift down her body before pinning his gaze on her face again.

"Y/n, I need you to be safe."

"I am safe! I've been safe ever since you guys put someone to watch over me. I've been safe ever since the same person has been following me everywhere I go, which if you haven't caught on my sarcasm, has made me feel more like in prison than actually feeling protected." Her voice was tinged with frustration as she squared her shoulders, refusing to back down. "It's like I'm being controlled."

"It's not about controlling you, it's about ensuring that nothing bad happens to you."

"I was simply gone for an hour, Spencer," she reminded him again. "No need to go all dramatic over it."

Then in the blink of an eye, the heated tension that had filled the room seemed to snap, leaving them both breathless and disarmed. But instead of reacting with anger or shouting, Spencer's frustration found a different outlet.

"Why are you not fucking listening to me?"

And in a sudden and unexpected gesture, he cupped her face in his hands. Their eyes locked for a fleeting moment, filled with a mix of emotions too complex to name. And then, in a burst of raw and unspoken desire, he leaned in and crashed his lips on her.

She was too stunned to speak, too stunned to respond. There was nothing else she could do but to give in his advance, because dear god, it felt too good to have his mouth moving against hers again. Spencer had kissed her many times before, but not like this. Not this rough. She could even feel the frustration seeping from his body as his lips moved against hers with urgency.

He continued to kiss her, biting hard at her bottom lip, teeth gnashing against the soft flesh of it as a rumbling noise vibrated deep in his chest. Each time she gasped in response at his teeth, his tongue forced its way into her mouth and lapped so mercilessly that she was left desperate for air each time he returned to assaulting her with his teeth and lips.

"Is this what it would take for you to listen?" He growled against her mouth. "Is this what you want?"

Speechless, she responded to his ardor with a fervor of her own, her body leaning into his, fingers tracing the contours of his face. She continued to stare up at him, trying to quickly piece together what was going on, though she nevertheless found herself aroused. It was as if their desire, long suppressed by their arguments and differences, had suddenly ignited, leaving them both powerless to resist the pull of passion.

"Answer me," he barked out.

"Yes," she finally breathed out. "Yes."

Releasing her face, his hands rose in between them. Her eyes dropped down, watching as he gripped her towel with so much force before he ripped it off her body in one swift movement, throwing the material onto the floor.

His eyes roamed over her body, tracing every curve and contour with an intensity that sent shivers down her spine. His hands traced over her sides before he gripped onto her hips, tugging her towards him desperately. "I won't be able to restrain myself."

She knew what he meant. She was acutely aware of the tension seeping from his body, all the anger, all the frustration. She understood how hard these past few days had been for him, she could even feel it from the taught in his muscles. He was tensed and from the way he was looking at her with hooded eyes, he needed a release.

And so did she.

The intensity of the moment had ignited a different kind of fire within her, and her previous anger and frustration began to fade away, which was why she found one of her hands caressing his cheek, pulling him closer as he leaned his forehead against hers. "Then don't," she whispered. "Use me."

His eyes snapped to her.

"You can use me, Spencer," she assured him. "Use me in any way you want."

There was a moment of silence as he contemplated her words. "Do you mean that?"

She nodded. She missed this—dear god, she missed him so much. She hadn't realized how much she missed being close to him until she was standing naked underneath his heated gaze.

She pressed her lips against his softly. "I'm all yours."

And then he deepened the kiss and she melted into him, her tongue dancing with his. He slowly loosened his grip on her hips and found its way onto her hand resting against his cheek. He pulled away from her, tugging her hand towards him, his mouth hovering above her wrist.

"In any way I want?" He asked, gently brushing his lips over her pulse.

"Any way you want."

He smiled at her then, the first smile she saw on him ever since he barged into her room unexpectedly. But there was something about his smile that sent her into a frenzy of nerves. It wasn't genuine, it wasn't gentle.

It wasn't until his other hand reached behind him that she finally understood what his smile meant. Because right at that moment, to her surprise, he retrieved a pair of handcuffs from his pocket, and with a soft click he carefully bounded one of her wrists, the steel bracelets feeling cool against her damp skin.

And then his smile morphed into a more dominant edge as he leaned closer, his eyes burning with need.

"Any way I want."

>> NEXT PART

a/n: Did you think I wasn't going to insert another smutty scene in between all the chaos? You thought wrong!

.

taglist #1

@tereresrock @casthings @vader-is-hot @maevethelesbian @whereintheworldisspencerreid @reidverseq @niyahwhoreworld @l4venderia @theintrovertedthespian @lovelyxtom @tayzerr-72 @mulbsstuff @dorothleah @stevenknightmarc @prettyboyspenceee @gracesmusings @kalulakunundrum @fearlessmoony @r5court @simp4f1 @thecrazytealady @nyeddleblog @ghostheartbeat @comfortzonequeen @iiheartbowie @louderfortheback @busy-buzzing @alexis-exe2008 @imtherealslimmoony @baeofevery @elamultistan @lyxennz @avid-fic-reader-05

@cowstealer427 @thollandsdarling @ghxst-heart @cashtons-wife @kyuupidwrites @you-sunshine @comboboo @sebastiansstanswhore @panic-monster @marimorena06 @alice-ace299 @uncle-eggy @bollzinurmouth @julezs-bl0g @ruhrohragu @eternally-passionate @kazuumii @spencerr3idd @withered-rxse @broken-pieces @siredtomsgilbert @kaiya3333 @furiousbanditnickelknight @pinkangelavenue @slay-and-gay @woahnotmecryingoverafanfiction @zeysartzone @frxcless @sadroses98

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[finleyforevermore]

Dear Nex,

You're never going to see this. I know. I felt the need to write this for you anyway.

Maybe my input isn't needed because I'm cis, but I hope you and everyone else who sees this knows in spite of my gender identity and the privilege I have as a cis male that I'm aware that I have, I mean every word that I say. I never wanted to be privileged. I don't want to be privileged. I'm so incredibly sorry that I'm privileged. I know it's not right. I know it's not fair. If my input isn't needed, so be it. But I'm going to share it anyway.

My sorrow and rage and pain has not at all subsided since February 20, when I learned of your death. You've been in the back of my mind ever since. The grief and anger hasn't gone away. What your friends said about you and your family as well, shows that you were such a wonderful person. I wonder if you had social media. I would've loved to be your friend if you had Tumblr.

I find myself enjoying sunny weather and thinking "Nex would've liked this". I look at my friends' pet cats and think about Zeus. When listening to rock I wonder if you liked the song I listen to.

You were mistreated by your peers in life, because of your laugh, which I'm sure was wonderful, and the way you dressed. Being yourself cost you your life. And now even in death people refuse to respect you. Transphobes running rampant, calling you your deadname, someone here on Tumblr celebrating your death, labeled as filth. And now? Now your cause of death has been labeled as suicide. Even though absolutely none of it makes sense, and nothing adds up. It just doesn't make sense. And even if somehow you did commit suicide, the day before you did you were physically assaulted by your peers for getting fed up with being mocked. You were bullied before that too. Bullied relentlessly and mercilessly just for being you. The blood is still on their hands.

I'm utterly disgusted by the medical examiner, the state of Oklahoma, the transphobes, even myself sometimes for being so privileged because of my gender identity. I shouldn't be privileged for being cis. We should all be accepted and treated fairly and with care and love and respect. If only things were that ideal..

I'm crying now even as I write this. I so desperately wish that everything was different. That you weren't killed. That you could continue to hang out with your friends and be a kid. Making new recipes. Playing with Zeus. Playing your favorite songs. Making music, if you liked doing that.

Recently my faith and belief in God has been tested. But if there's an afterlife, a Heaven up there, I hope you're having fun and enjoying yourself up there. When I die and reach Heaven, I'll be sure to visit you.

On the other hand, if there's not a Heaven, I hope you're enjoying your eternal rest. Whatever being dead is like without an afterlife, I hope you're ok.

But until then I'm going to try my damndest to ensure your memory stays alive. Posting about you on social media and reblogging posts about you like wildfire so people never forget. I'm not going to let anyone forget you, Nex. I promise you. Me and all of the other people grieving here on Tumblr will continue to say your name, whether our shouts fall on deaf ears or not. We're never going to be silenced.

I raise my cup to you, Nex. You will be avenged. Justice will be served.

I didn't know you and I never will. You never knew me and you never will. But all the same, even if we're eternally strangers, I love you, Nex Benedict. I'm sorry the school failed you, I'm sorry the ambulance failed you, I'm sorry Oklahoma failed you, I'm sorry the world failed you. And perhaps I failed you somehow. And I'm so unbelievably sorry if I did. But I hope keeping your memory alive, and saying your name, and seeking justice can make up for it.

Until we're angels in Heaven once more.

Love, truly,

Finley

[chronosh0t]

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ⸺ 𝐋𝐮𝐜𝐤 𝐡𝐚𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞 .*ೃ

───────────────────────────

𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐒: Lee's pov, gn reader, canon-divergence,

𝐒𝐘𝐍𝐎𝐏𝐒𝐈𝐒: “I hoped for luck, I looked for it and believed, not knowing it had your name in it” — just something silly, maybe a log from him. might be ooc 〔 NO BETA 〕

…………

It wasn't easy. I think it never was. But at least, for a few years we weren't all by ourselves, maybe it didn't seem to be that way, or that's how I'd like to remember it. The point is, it really wasn't easy.

Young, inexperienced, and people would gradually try to take advantage of our situation, of our own nativity, innocence, or some would just try to help us for their own selfish reasons, personal satisfaction or beliefs, eventually leaving us alone. Waiting for some good luck to strike us and change a little bit our cruel reality, only to find out life doesn't work by luck. The world doesn't work by luck.

Luck is false hope for the powerless, the less fortunate, to feed their delusions, that one day things will change, one day perhaps their luck will change and misfortune will leave their side and be replaced by a God that'd help them. That is luck, and I keep thinking so. I believed in luck back then, desperate for a chance, merely to be met by the unwavering proof of reality.

I swore to do whatever, anything and everything, just to keep him safe. Growing up by the taste of bitterness, the mould in the walls and the cold sheets, inside a room that was not safe for either of us, it made me realise I was part of those adults. Working nonstop for some exchanges that barely kept us alive my mind was going numb, my hands were too cold and my logic was losing focus. I believed in luck. But luck was not an option, never was, never will. However, things needed to be done, anything was good and valid if it meant I could get the chance to save his body from his weak heart.

Did it ever cross my mind the idea of becoming some sort of hired assassin? No. I don't think anyone ever grows up having those ideas. Yet, there I was. Loading a gun, hiding in the darkness, my hands tinted with crimson red, cold as the river. Money was the only thing occupying my mind, my reasoning blind due to the lack of time. Yet I know it was also a bad idea, what if I end up dying? What if, for a single stupid mistake, I end up getting killed and disposed of like a bag of trash? He would've ended up alone. Risks needed to be taken.

So I took them. And I kept going. One step at a time, and I thought things would get better, falling in the traps of luck. Because even if I was smart enough, I was still a teenager, I was still a young, inexperienced kid trying to make it to another day. Eighteen years old, and I should be studying. I should be concentrating on which university I wanted to go to, maybe going out with some friends, maybe celebrating my birthday, his. Perhaps travelling to other places and taking pretty pictures for the memories with our family. Anything but whatever I was living right now.

Eighteen years and I was holding a gun, pointing at someone I didn't know and I didn't want to know. The more I knew the less I wanted to be part of this, the less I wanted to keep going, but that wasn't for me. I was selfless, as the older brother, that was what I was supposed to do. My job was to take care of him, to save enough money and help him. Did I ever regret it? No, I don't think I ever did. But I did wish for luck to come and help me. I couldn't never sleep properly, the idea of being unaware of what was happening was unpleasant to me. The same fear hunting me down whenever he went to sleep and I didn't know if something bad would happen. His heart was weak, and the days were harsh and cold.

But we made it work.

Did I mention how bitter is reality? I did all that, I killed so many people, I was betrayed and for what? For the world to take away the slim chance I built for a better tomorrow. Crushed by humanity's mistake. I refused to let go, so I took yet another risk.

I had the chance to give up my humanity for him to remain, for him to be strong, to finally have the chance to grow up in a stable environment, experience what people of his age do. That, I don't regret it. Even if it means to be betrayed again, to be used and disposed, to me neglected and hurt, to be left alone. It didn't matter, for the reality was slightly better than before.

But I didn't want to test luck. Yet I kept hoping. Even if I was against some of his choices, I still thought it was good because it meant he was growing, he formed his own opinion, forged his own paths. And that was more than enough, I couldn't ask for more. I shouldn't ask for more, right? Because that was all that I ever wanted. For him.

What about me, though? How laughable. Calling myself selfless when I was still greedy enough to wish, to hope for luck to come and save me. I was okay with how my life turned out to be because I was too busy to even think about it deeply. I thought of giving up. Of accepting my own reality.

I was someone who would judge those who believed in luck, or those who would wait instead of taking actions and change their fate. Yet, there I was. Inside that cold room, the dim light of the fluorescent lamps hanging from the ceiling, the industrial design of the metallic tables, and some digital screens beeping in the desk, filling the awkward silence between the three of us.

I was pondering what was the reason behind their decision of becoming a Construct. Did they have an unfortunate life like me? Or was it out of sheer selflessness and their sense of justice? I didn't care enough and I didn't want to know more than their names. Lucia and Liv. Because, from experience, I knew getting to know someone too much meant developing a sense of closeness I didn't want to. Their name was fine, that was more than enough.

It was the same with you. I just needed to know your name, nothing else, nothing more. Because we were made for war, made to fight in humanity's name, looking as human as possible but never being treated like one. We chose to, or forced to, give up that side of us for reasons no one but us would ever know.

Constructs were just that, war machines. To be used and disposed of. Yet, there you were. With your gentle voice and touch, leading us forwards but running at our side, giving us order but hearing our opinions and suggestions in every single step you decided to take. For you, the three of us, meant more than just machines to fight the enemy, we meant more than just a frame and a dog tag. To you, we were equal to humans. To you, we were friends, companions.

And I believed in luck. Because of you. I was able to let go of prejudice and decided to let my guard down, I decided to leave my past and traumas and give you my trust. You ended up being the reason I thought luck actually came and saved me. I wasn't betrayed, I wasn't used, I wasn't disposed of and I wasn't left behind. Because, for you, I was more than just a three letter name, I was someone you cherished deeply, I was part of your team, I was part of this… family.

I wasn't just Lee. I was Lee from Gray Raven. And I was not alone. The world, still as cold and harsh, the fights endless and my hands still hold guns, but now even if they're made of metal, they're not cold anymore. When I walk and I look at my side, there's my teammates and you. You, ready to risk that precious life to protect us, to give a chance for a new tomorrow, to give other people the chance to believe in hope.

You.

That's why, once again, I didn't think twice in risking my life if it means to bring the same chances, to deliver the same hope. Because I am Lee from Gray Raven, I decided to do what I only could do, fighting against time, against any odds, giving my life, my past, present and future to hope. Giving myself to this new family, giving my life to you, refusing to give up and settle for less. I made up my mind never resting again, not until I could meet a reality where Gray Raven is always together, the four of us.

And I will keep doing so. As long as Gray Raven exists, as long as you are here with me, I will keep fighting, I will keep holding those guns I used to hate the most, I will keep going forward, I will keep hoping. Because even if the world is cold and dark, every day the sun rises from the horizon. Because every single time, spring comes after the winter and the flowers bloom admits the chaos.

I once wished for luck to come and save me, not knowing it had a different name. Your name.

───────────────────────────

[the-nysh]

Trimax vol1: when our 'Hero Returns' and it's all fun n games til shit gets real meeting a very messy meaty moral dilemma, just what is Vash to do?!

Context: when Vash busts in guns blazing to stop a steamer siege + hostage situation between two warring factions of a city from escalating into a bloodbath. His purpose: to save lives and prevent any more deaths, fueled by his ongoing belief and sworn promise in Rem's memory to protect all those she sacrificed her life to save. Where it's smooth sailing til Vash encounters his most difficult roadblock: a grieving father who's dead-set on killing his daughter's murderer (ch6: 'Sin') A very painful but brilliant test challenging the extent of Vash's beliefs and how far he'll go to 'save.'

And why does this dilemma hurt so good? Because at that moment, with a flash of recognition stopping Vash dead in his tracks, he realizes all their pain and anger, driven into the need to enact justice for the death of a family member, is exactly the same. *record scratch* Oh shit...

"This bastard killed my daughter!" vs "That monster killed Rem!" The father taking matters into his own hands, wanting to personally punish [the sinner] to avenge his daughter, parallels Vash's thoughts (Trigun vol2) towards Knives for [the sins] of killing their mother Rem! :O

Where their shared pain, urgency, and justifications to send (him) to hell--down to even the very language used (that 'animal'/'monster') are no different. Even Vash's own words 'you stubborn old fool! Just who gave you the right to decide?' (who lives or dies) ironically come back to bite him hard. That Vash instantly realizes he has no 'higher moral' grounds to speak here... There's nothing he can say or judge the man for being driven by the same feelings to pick up a gun that've kept him alive for so long! So what can he do? How can Vash possibly interfere? Cause even Wolfwood knows how often those who'd never fight will take up arms for the sake of lost loved ones. So being confronted with this situation almost mirroring his own with Knives, does it make Vash reconsider his whole life's motivations thus far? Now that he sees just what it's like from the perspective of an outsider?? Ohhh what a mess!!

The sequence of him remembering back to Rem & Knives, weighing everything that's at stake full of inner conflict and hesitation, is brilliant as he slowly lowers his gun...

Cause if the weight of the killer's crimes bears any resemblance to Knives, then Vash concedes, almost dropping his head in regret and shame--cause he understands the father's difficult situation quite well! Having pointed his own gun towards Knives with the same intent before... Would stopping this man from enacting his revenge right now, invalidate all of Vash's feelings on his quest to punish Knives too?! hrgghhh....he can't do it. Even if allowing this 'exception'--this 'justified' death to happen before his eyes, clashes with his promise to Rem??

God, the sequence of Vash's expression internally warring with himself over what he should do...as the killer pathetically wails and pleads for his own life in increasing desperation, begging right in Vash's face for someone to come save him....urrrghh the pressure is SO hard, so difficult!!! ;o; Cause there's no easy 'right' answer here.

What makes this dilemma hurt even more, is how Wolfwood even warned him about tough situations like this beforehand. About the necessity of making quick, cruel, pragmatic choices in timely matters of life & death. Where if someone's bound to die in the equation, and if Vash keeps on inserting himself into it without choosing to save himself, then he must be prepared to take the hard route (the darker role) of killing someone else in exchange, if anyone is to be saved or make it out of this alive at all. As to him, it's humanly impossible to save everyone, so a tough decision must be made, or wallowing in indecision helps no one.

But the thing is...Vash isn't so naive or clueless (as Wolfwood thinks he is) that he needs to be lectured about matters of life & death. He knows; he's always been serious about that, saving people in his own way for longer than Wolfwood's been alive! And it's not just him recklessly jumping into the fray, fueled by only his promise to Rem without considering the repercussions of what he's doing; his resolve goes deeper than that. He personally understands the gravity of loss, so he's not about to coldly treat other people's lives so lightly like throwaway tools or equations to write off either--he's not about to let them die, so long as he can help it. But whether or not you consider this selfish of him to decide other people's right to live (with second chances) is another matter. He repeatedly chooses to get himself so involved because he knows if he stands by and does nothing at all to help then no one gets saved! He doesn't need Wolfwood to tell him that...

[So really, the crux of his moral dilemma doesn't really hinge on matters like 'killing is bad/wrong!' (as it seemed the 98 anime tried to portray here) or even on the grayer subjectivity whether the killer even deserves to live for his crimes - cause if Vash didn't agree or empathize with the father's pain (understanding his side, his choice), he'd have already shot him by now (in the shoulder or leg somewhere) to 'save' the killer, just as he warned beforehand: 'don't give me a reason to shoot you.' But since Vash realizes it's not his place to make that kind of judgement call, especially when it's too difficult to remain objective with clear 'absolutes' in cases like this when things turn complicated, he can't simply shoot anyone here either.]

So what else can he do? If he still wants to do things ~His Way~? In the end, what drives Vash to make a decision still comes down to that choice of inaction vs action (where walking away--as even Wolfwood insisted they do to save themselves from getting dragged in, is also an option), cause Vash knows that if he simply idles or gives up now without doing something in time, then no one gets saved--and THAT would betray himself the most.

And so...(he can't not do Something!)

(The way he already has tears in his eyes feeling ripped apart over this...)

"Don't you dare judge me by your high and mighty standards! What do you know about my pain?!" .......Oh what cruel irony, because that's the other thing--Vash does know. How much it hurts. :') He may not have lost a daughter but he does understand the pain of losing a mother to the point of aiming a gun enraged at the perpetrator all the same...he's not 'judging' the father for any of that either...

So all Vash can really do here....is hold the man's gun (in silent sympathy and understanding--he's not even forcing it away! just...holding it) as he bears the brunt of the father's venting anger and punishments upon himself. Taking a violent beating in place of the killer's [sins] *gasp* how very Christ-like...

In the end, the father is allowed to grieve and vent all his pain and frustrations without killing anyone--he is saved from becoming a cold-blooded killer. And Vash is saved from having to betray himself with the weight of a preventable death literally on his hands. A merciful but messy result still so full of pain unhealed on all sides, but no one died--everyone can walk away (in custody) to live another day, humbled and perhaps changed by the experience... (But who can say for sure? That's probably beyond anyone's power to know.) If anything, whatever 'faith' resonated between their shared pain, in a connection (or moment of regret? weakness? especially once the killer started begging for his own father to save him, ouch) that ultimately stayed the father's hand from pulling the trigger, Vash acknowledges it saved them both...

With this result, I feel the whole thing illustrates Nightow's message from his Comickers Art Style interview:

When life and death come into the picture, the story inevitably becomes heavy. …There is a conclusion I’ve come to while constantly confronting the story. In the end, I think people hurt and take lives because they don’t know enough about each other. If they knew each other well, the weight would be significantly different. …Vash ended up being portrayed as an existence that perceives [that] from the perspective of a crawling existence. (One who lives long, directly interacting among people and feeling the existence of the other party with his skin as he continues to wander.) …In the end, I think that knowing, conveying, and connecting with each other for everyone is a power that restrains various forms of violence. The word ‘family’ in Trigun contains that meaning. And in the end, the thing that pierces the heart the most when you understand others, is pain, isn’t it?

Where that's basically what happened: Vash choosing to intervene and connect (in understanding) through that human level of pain...ultimately restrained the killing blow. :') Even the Doc's relevant comment this chapter about how far Vash is willing to go, and get himself hurt, for the sake of saving those he considers 'family' (beyond blood)...I feel that means, if Vash could closely relate and see the father as fellow 'kin' through their shared pain...he went that far intent to save the father (rather than the life of the killer) from committing another terrible sin they'd both regret...it all feels connected to what Nightow wanted to convey...

I also wonder how much of this experience, connecting and empathizing with the father's situation here, affected Vash's future encounters with Knives, on whether he restrains the killing blow towards him the next time they meet as well.

And while I think Vash choosing the martyr approach to literally bear all the pain (and sins of humanity) directly on his skin wouldn't be sustainable if he were a regular human who'd probably be long dead by now--so the fact that he's not, makes a huge difference towards how long he can effectively keep this up. As his way becomes exceedingly difficult to sustain in the long run (so there's truth in Wolfwood's perspective as a human, knowing Vash's way to save can't always hope to work out--eventually somebody will have to die.)

But in the end, Wolfwood (who still thinks Vash naively looks at the world thru rose-colored glasses) cautioning him about needing to commit towards that hard choice (about killing somebody) one day, rings with the most foreboding feeling ever...(with as much 'subtle' foreshadowing as the panel of Wolfwood standing across from an open coffin this volume...Nightow please...)

[cirilla-fiona-riannon]

Kicho's Main Story Chapter 4 Part 2

These translations are not intended as a replacement for the game. Please support CYBIRD by buying their stories. JP SPOILERS under the cut.

My heart thumped as memories that hadn’t faded yet came flooding back to me.

The emotion was so simple, but it certainly moved me.

Mai: “I was happy because it was something I made.”

Mai: “When I realized I could make someone happy, I felt like I had some meaning.”

(I see. So that’s what it was.)

Mai: “I’ve always wanted to be someone.”

(To feel like I could be there.)

Kicho: “To be someone?”

Mai: “Yes. So no matter where I am, I always end up struggling.”

I spoke these words in self-mockery, but for some reason, Kicho nodded and accepted my words.

Kicho: “People are all like that. But that doesn’t make them evil.”

Kicho: “As long as you live in this world, the opinions and beliefs of others will make who you are.”

Kicho: “That’s why everyone has unanswered questions.”

Mai: “Everyone?”

Kicho: “Still, don’t forget. Wherever you are, whatever you do, you are you.”

Kicho: “As long as you have your will to live, this truth will never change.”

Kicho: “You are not just someone. You’re Mai.”

Kicho: “Wherever you are, whatever you do, just live as you.”

Mai: “............”

“Mai”

The name he said was already familiar to me, but it almost made my feelings a jumbled mess.

Undeniably, it was a sign of my existence that I have continued to live up to this day.

(I wonder if I have to go back from the start.)

(As long as I want to live, am I allowed to stay here as I am?)

Shaking with confusion, I stared at his hazel-green eyes looking at me.

He didn't turn away. His eyes only sparkled gently.

Mai: "You're right. I'm me."

Kicho: "Yeah. Even if you run through different times."

Kicho: "You said your dreams got cut off, yet here you are. You didn't give up."

Mai: "Yes, there is no way I would give up."

Mai: "As I said before, I think I'm the type of person who always struggles."

Kicho: "I see."

(Oh, he smiled.)

All my attention was drawn to his eyes, perhaps because I always see him expressionless.

His smile, different from the one I had seen before, was even more gentle, making my heart skip a beat.

(Maybe it's because I saw something unusual or because he smiled at me, and that's why I'm happy?)

Kicho: "Why are you suddenly smiling?"

Mai: "Huh? I'm smiling too?"

Mai: "Sorry. I'm just happy you smiled."

Kicho: "............."

Kicho: "I'm alive, so I also smile. That one was involuntary."

(It's a little disappointing that he's back to his usual self, but一)

Mai: "Thank you. I feel better now."

Kicho: "It was no big deal."

Mai: "It was. At least, for me."

(I never thought he would say that to me, but I'm happy.)

My chest tightened painfully as if scolding me for receiving his words honestly.

(The more I get to know this guy, the more indecisive I become.)

------------Flashback------------

Mai: "Um, can I still stay here?"

Kicho: "Well, you have nowhere else to go."

Mai: "Yes."

Kicho: "Then you can stay. But believing that you're from the future is different from trusting you."

Kicho: "I only have one condition."

Kicho: "Is something bothering you?"

Mai: "Huh?"

Kicho: "No, of course, there is. The norm here is different from the one you're used to."

Kicho: "For example, you could talk to me like this, but you couldn't read the letters of this period."

Kicho: "Compared to what it was in the future, it's totally different."

Mai: "Yeah. I can't read it."

Kicho: "If you want, I can teach you."

Kicho: “Mai!”

Mai: “Kicho!?”

Kicho: "Don't give up. Keep going and put your strength into it."

---------Flashback Ends---------

I thought if I got to know him, I could put the missing pieces together.

But now, this thought was slowly taking shape and confusing me.

I was afraid to find out what I wanted to know more about.

(What should I do now?)

(Even if I’m his secretary, nothing has changed in our relationship.)

(He’s still my enemy, and I’m a spy.)

(There’s no way I could ever betray someone.)

(But betray who?)

Kicho: “Mai.”

Mai: “Y-Yes?”

Kicho: “You must be tired. Get some rest tonight.”

Kicho: “The rain should stop in the morning, so hopefully, we’ll be able to leave soon.”

Mai: "Okay. Then good night."

I bid him goodnight, trying not to show my confusion, and then crawled under the futon placed at the end of the room and turned my back as I closed my eyes.

(He believed me when I told him I came from the future, and he saved me several times, but I've been betraying him ever since we've been in this relationship.)

I gripped my sleeve with my fingertips, feeling the pain of the pressure, but then一

Kicho's voice: "Mai."

Mai: “----!”

When I heard his gentle voice calling me, I had no choice but to turn around.

Mai: "Um, what is it?"

Kicho: "I know it’s difficult for you not to be cautious of me, but don’t worry, I won’t lay a hand on you just because we’re sharing a room."

(I guess I gave him the wrong impression.)

Mai: "No, I wasn't being cautious. I'm sorry I made you feel uncomfortable."

Mai: "Although it's true that I've been thinking about you."

Kicho: "Ha?"

He raised an eyebrow and sighed.

Kicho: "What are you suddenly saying?"

Mai: "Um, I don't mean it in a weird way!"

Kicho: "I know, but that comment is uncalled for."

Kicho: "Never say that to anybody other than me."

Kicho: "Others might take it the wrong way."

Mai: “Okay. Hm?”

Kicho: “What’s wrong?”

Mai: “N-Nothing.”

Kicho: “You’re all over the place.”

Mai: “Hahaha… I guess.”

(The way he just said it means it’s okay to say it in front of him.)

(Nope, I’m sure he’s just being reasonable. I get what he’s trying to say.)

I laid down on the futon again, my head spinning as I tried to come up with a crazy explanation.

(Let’s not think about it, or I might not make it tonight.)

Mai: “I’ll sleep now. Good night.”

Kicho: “Yeah. Good night.”

Feeling the gentleness of Kicho’s voice echoing in the darkness, I slowly closed my eyes.

Before I knew it, my dark thoughts quickly faded into the corner of my consciousness, replaced by sleepiness.

Hideyoshi: “Here’s the information we’ve received from around the region. For more details, please refer to this report.”

Nobunaga: “Oh? Was he responsible for the recent incident as well?”

Hideyoshi: “Probably. However, we haven’t received any news from Mitsuhide.”

Hideyoshi: “Just what on earth is that guy doing in Sakai?”

Vassal’s voice: “Lord Nobunaga, Lord Hideyoshi, excuse me!”

Vassal’s voice: “Just now, someone received a letter from Lord Mitsuhide.”

Hideyoshi: “-----!”

Nobunaga: “I see. Bring him in.”

Vassal’s voice: “Yes, sir.”

After a short reply, the door opened, following the sound of light footsteps.

Mitsuhide’s vassal: “Excuse me. Here you go, Lord Nobunaga.”

Nobunaga: “Yeah.”

Nobunaga received the letter, unfolded it, and read it.

Nobunaga: “I see. Mai, huh?”

Hideyoshi: “Is something wrong with her!?”

Nobunaga: “She successfully infiltrated as a spy, but after that, Mitsuhide lost contact with her.”

Hideyoshi: “Mai.”

Hideyoshi: “Lord Nobunaga, Kicho is a very careful and clever man.”

Hideyoshi: “I think leaving it to an inexperienced person alone was too risky.”

Hideyoshi: “Maybe we should send a few of our best men over there.”

Nobunaga: “No.”

Hideyoshi: “But...”

Nobunaga: “..............”

Hideyoshi: “No, my apologies. It is as you are trying to say.”

Hideyoshi: “You sent Mai there not only because Kicho raised his hand against you.”

Hideyoshi: “Also, if she needs help, I’m sure Mitsuhide will contact us as soon as possible.”

Hideyoshi: “So what’s the situation一”

Instead of replying, Nobunaga held out a letter to Hideyoshi.

Hideyoshi immediately took it and looked down at the written report.

Hideyoshi: “I see. Mai is...”

Nobunaga: “To sneak into the inner circle of a man who is so hostile to other people一she really is an intriguing woman.”

Nobunaga: “However, we don’t have enough time to wait for her report.”

Hideyoshi: “Yes. The reports we have are consistent with what’s coming in from all over the region.”

Hideyoshi: “Lord Nobunaga, what should we do?”

Nobunaga: “Tell everyone as soon as possible. Our next plan is一”

At the same time, at Kasugayama Castle.

Kenshin: “I’m bored.”

Kenshin dropped the report in his hand onto the tatami mats as he said this.

Kenshin: “It makes no sense to wage war now on Nobunaga.”

Shingen: “Are these guys currently separated by the rebellions happening all over the country?”

Kenshin: “Yeah, there’s just a lot of unnecessary interruptions.”

Kenshin: “I’d rather fight someone who can go all out.”

Shingen: “There was another skirmish on the outskirts of Echigo the other day.”

Shingen: “According to Yuki, they have several weapons that don’t match their fighting strength. He also said that most of them are imported abroad.”

Shingen: “It looks like they’re not only targeting the Oda army.”

Yoshimoto: “Kicho is really troublesome, huh?”

Kanetsugu: “Yeah, he used to be in the Oda army.”

Kanetsugu: “Lord Shingen. I think Kicho probably sent those weapons to them.”

Shingen: “Yeah.”

Shingen: "If his goal is not to defy Nobunaga, then what the hell is it?"

Shingen: "All of Japan right now is in chaos. If this continues, everything will eventually get caught in a sea of fire."

Yoshimoto: "That's bad news."

Kanetsugu: "............."

???: "Excuse me, Lord Kenshin."

Kenshin: "It's you. Come in."

Sasuke: "Sorry to keep you waiting."

Sasuke: "I've compiled additional reports from the nokizaru regarding the rebellions.”

Sasuke: "Also..."

Yukimura: "Lord Shingen, I'm back."

Shingen: "Yuki, that was fast."

Yukimura: "Yes. It was quickly settled. Also, I heard some weird rumors, so I thought I'd get to it right away."

Sasuke: "By the way, I think that weird rumor has some credibility."

Sasuke: "I met and talked with someone at the castle gate earlier, and what he said matched what I collected from the nokizaru."

Kenshin: "Tell me about it."

Sasuke: "Yes."

Sasuke and Yukimura looked at each other and then briefly announced the news, causing everyone's faces to turn grim.

Kenshin: "If that rumor is true, I won't tolerate it."

Kenshin: "I'll die of boredom if I don't destroy him quickly."

Shingen: "Besides, I don't think the people will be able to live peacefully in this state."

Yoshimoto: "If there's a possibility that more beautiful things will get destroyed, I wouldn't just sit back."

Kanetsugu: "Lord Kenshin, please give the order. I'll surely take that man's head."

Yukimura: "Hey, wait. He already knows what you look like and who you are."

Yukimura: "Are you going to rush into the trading post and kill him?"

Kanetsugu: "If that's what Lord Kenshin wants."

Kenshin: "Wait, Kanetsugu. Sasuke, go to Sakai and find out what he's up to."

Sasuke: "Me!?"

Sasuke: "Maybe you want me to solve that mystery, too."

Yukimura: "What are you mumbling about? You mean that spy from the Oda army?"

Yoshimoto: "I don't understand一wait, what?"

Yukimura: "It's probably just a rumor, but I heard that a woman came to Kicho's place as a spy."

Sasuke: "-----!"

Shingen: "That's one hell of a brave girl. I'd love to meet her someday."

Kenshin: "Stupid woman. She's gonna die there."

Sasuke: "Don't tell me that woman is..."

Sasuke: "I understand. I'll go to Sakai."

At the same time, deep in the mountains.

Kennyo: "You said you wanted to talk to me, so I came over only to find you wanting to help me?"

Motonari: "Yeah. You're trying to take revenge on Nobunaga, right? Japan is now getting f*cked, so this is a perfect time."

Kennyo: "I see. Then you are the ones who instigated this."

Motonari: “Ha?”

Kennyo: “For the past few days, something has been blowing in the air and trees.”

Kennyo: “It’s the smell of burning grass, trees, houses, people, and many other things.”

Motonari: “So what? Didn’t you also burn the Honnoji temple?”

Motonari: “This is one of the ways to achieve our goal.”

Motonari: “Besides, we only provided the opportunity. The choice was theirs.”

Kennyo: “............”

Motonari: “People are all the same. When they have a bit of money in their hands, they easily turn on others.”

Motonari: “How can a vengeful demon who deviated from his path and plotted to kill people be so nice now?”

Kennyo: “I don’t mean to be nice.”

Motonari: “Really? Well, think about it anyway. It’s not like it’s gonna hurt you.”

Motonari waved his hand and walked away with his men in tow.

Kennyo: “That’s right. I’ve strayed from my path.”

Kennyo: “I don’t care if I fall into hell.”

Kennyo: “I’m willing to become a demon to take revenge on Nobunaga.”

Kennyo: “I’m determined to get him to hell first, even if it means taking my students with me.”

Kennyo: “But..."

The night wind blew, shaking the metal rings of his staff.

The smell of the wind and the sound of his staff made Kennyo’s face contorted.

Kennyo: “Will I follow the demon or not?”

Kennyo: “There are too many to take to hell.”

Previous╏Masterlist╏Next (Gacha)

[purplelea]

Related to my other post about Neku the other day.

This scene is what gives the best glimpse of what Neku was like before the Game. They just saw Rhyme getting erased, and Neku is hurt and lashes out on Shiki, opening about his feelings at the same time. We need to remember that at this moment, Neku is still amnesiac and doesn't truly remember anything about his past. Still, I believe he truly means those words since he never takes them back even after regaining his memories.

As I said in the other post, Neku doesn't hate people. What he hates is getting hurt because of others, and this is perfectly explained here: the word hurt itself is highlighted in his dialogue. But there's also something else, that we can find again in neo: it's this need of real, genuine human connection. Neku hates having friends because he thinks that the connection friends have is fake and based on lies. It tracks with what he says afterwards during his week with Joshua: you can't truly understand others, so any connection you will have with people won't be genuine and true.

At the beginning of the Game, Neku is selfish. There's no going around it: he pushes others away because they might hurt him, he tries to kill Shiki to save his own skin (remember Uzuki's words? "You're the star, kiddo. Just do things your way. [...] What are you waiting for? Do what comes naturally. Save yourself. Screw everybody else, right?"), he doesn't consider for a second that she needs him as much as he needs her to stay alive. Because of this selfishness, he doesn't believe that others can offer genuine kindness to others, that everytime someone does something nice to someone it's to get something from it—thus, the idea of people "pretending to agree with you" so you end up caring about them and getting hurt afterwards. It was all their big plan, right? And Neku doesn't want to walk into that.

So you'd think that because of that and his hatred towards liars, Neku would be mad at Shiki for lying about her appearance for almost the whole week, right? But our favourite emo boy simply tells her "Everyone has their off days, right?" when she apologises that they might fail the mission (and get erased) because of her. So what happened? What made him change that much? Well, the answer is simple enough: Shiki.

Shiki's kindness, her dream to make people happy with clothes, her insistence on the fact that "Not all lies are bad ones", her forgiveness and will go give others a second chance... Everything Shiki did, unknowingly, brought Neku to consider that maybe, just maybe, people weren't all that bad. Taking a peek into Shiki's world made Neku expand his own. She might have lied, but that was because she was scared and lost, just like him, and he sees himself in her—just two teenagers thrown into a game of life or death, holding on to their beliefs and trying to work together despite the hurt they're both carrying. I believe this is what makes Neku start to change—it's only the start, and his two other Partners will, too, help him to keep going towards that path of change.

It all comes up to that big lie in neo—that I already talked about here—the fact that he tells everyone that he doesn't know who sent him to Shinjuku. Neku, the blunt, brutally honest Neku Sakuraba, who hated lies because he firmly believed that nothing good could come of it, that they would only hurt people and especially people close to you like your friends, lying, openly, to the whole group of the Wicked Twisters—including Beat! Incredible. I just wanted to elaborate a little more on that, because that hatred ran deep, and despite everything, Neku managed to change that much.

[therealityhelix]

Just because that first one is smiling, does not mean he's friendly.

That Swag is my darling favorite should go without saying. It's kinda funny because he is nothing like my normal type of fave, but sometimes a character is just so enjoyable that it doesn't matter.

Swag is layers upon layers of masks, operating under a fake it till you make it program that is in constant flux. He endlessly rebuilds and remakes himself, and despite certain strict rules and being a legit business owner, is one of the most fluid and chaotic characters in the group. He bucks social authority hard, and while he starts out a bit selfish and self centered, he skews far more towards trying to do what's good rather than what's legal. Meaning that, while he doesn't go out of his way to be a hero, he will try to help people who are right in front of him. He is sometimes bad at it.

Considering how truly awful he used to be, and how he chose to go about not being that, he is a rare example of a wildly successful reform. Most of the biggest name villains in his world either died, or called it quits eventually, leaving only the smaller rogues to decide if they really wanted to continue or not. I imagine his world as being contemporary to ours, but with more cyberpunk candy goth overtones, rather than the classic art deco or endless grunge feels that many other Gothams portray.

Swag is one of those obnoxiously fashionable people who you want to be mad at, but you can't because he's charming instead of insufferable. He is openly afraid of commitment, but has a deep capacity for love and care, and an almost religious (but not quite) need to put more joy into the world than he did pain. He knows he can't make up for what he did, but guilt will always drive a person to try.

Swag is agile, and the fastest among his peers, but his body just never holds much weight or muscle, so he's not as strong as, say, Arkham or Narci. He can take a lot of pain and keep going though-if all the contraptions in his bedroom closet are any indication-and is difficult to drop. He does not believe in fighting 'fair', he's just seen too many fights for that.

Swag is not to be trusted in the kitchen! Get him outta there! However, he is a very good seamster, and often designs clothing. He has a lot of hobbies to keep his mind occupied, and work off his boundless energy. He has troubles with addiction, alcoholism being his greatest nemesis, after giving up nicotine since discovering Helix was allergic to it.

When Swag was ten years old, a Gray showed him the future. There, he met Narci and Helix, and a few other people. And though as the years went on, that memory faded into a dream, then a fuzzy recollection, then nothing more than a faded impression with no details, it kept him alive. At his lowest points, when he wondered if it was really worth it to go on, he always ended up clinging to the unfounded belief that someone was waiting for him, and so he stayed alive.

Swag was an unintentionally guiding force for many of the other Riddlers, and is universally beloved. In the end, like Detective, he also eventually got almost everything he wanted.

@cardwrecks @captainbaddecisions @whocares-idont

[skeine]

Knowing what we do about Dancer and her army of docile helper bots, it’s starting to look very possible she wiped FCG’s memories on purpose. Saw a miraculous automaton and thought, I can make it better. Programmed FCG’s drive to help others into them, overwrote their original personality and jury rigged a new function on top, one more convenient to her.

We saw in Calamity that belief in a concept or paradigm can let someone tap into a well of related divine power. Is using a foreign programming imposed on them to channel that divine power degrading their own memories, their personhood, the magic that keeps them alive and aware?

Or is the source of their magic not divine at all? Is Dancer’s programming using FCG themselves as the power source, leeching away whatever Aeorian magic keeps them alive? Eating away at their soul? Is everything that makes FCG a person being worn away, bit by bit, to save their friends?

This suspense is killing me, I can’t wait to meet Dancer. I have a feeling our cheerful little robit is going to rip our hearts out in the end.

[n0brainjustvibes]

god actually having so many emotions about chris good ending and Pocket Knife. warning a very long infodump ramble and also warning this Good Ending is the one in my head.. i am not finished ward

"I'm alive, and my blood is pumping like a gas line / Got an edge I'm holding / Got an edge I'm holding."

the way they sing "I'm ali-i-ive"... man. emotions even when I don't have a blorbo to project them onto. but I think part of the identity crisis of being a clone, especially one programmed for someone else's purpose, is being unsure of your own personhood. I mean, don't we all question our personhood? (joke, I know we don't all.) Songs that celebrate being "alive" or "real" or "existing" take on this extra meaning in the context of good ending!Chris, i.e. being alive in his own right. having a self who can be alive, rather than just a body.

Also, "got an edge I'm holding"... he wouldn't be A-Okay in the good end. Some of that paranoia is sticking. Hopefully it can metamorphise into a more well-adjusted caution. I think being cautious and Aware of his surroundings/self, and maintaining privacy, would be a point of pride for him. Especially since the choice to be cautious (see: active verb, holding) is a choice he takes. See reclaiming your mind and personality after biological mind control, and suchlike.

Some of his paranoia and need for privacy is Lab Rat's Birdcage trauma, but Chris has also spent his whole life with Lab Rat looking over his metaphorical shoulder. He has his own, very real, trauma regarding surveillance and invasion/violation of privacy. This at least would stick around after casting off the Imperatives - and contribute to the aforementioned pride: "you're not taking me again". I also do think the implanted Birdcage memories would stick. The Good Ending I envision isn't getting rid of the implanted personality, more like breaking it down and digesting it and reincorporating it into one coherent personality. Just give him free will, okay, he'll handle the rest.

"It's not about how it breaks, it's how you're fixin' it"

I just wanna see my boy holding optimistic, constructive, healthy beliefs. Especially if he's still friends with Kenzie and she holds them too. They both deserve this viewpoint. It's also one that gets a lot of practical use as a Tinker.

"I got a rugged heart. I got a body made of blades / I'm gonna keep 'em sharp like a pocket knife."

Again... see everything about consciously maintaining your wits and defenses, as a healing act in itself. And see what I said about accepting and reclaiming the body and mind. "Rugged" seems like a good way to describe a personality that's weathered not one, but two highly traumatic parahuman lives. And "body made of blades" is just!! I love it as a line in its own right!! It's very evocative. Here, it works in the sense that "your body has hurt you, but you can claim and wield it to further your goals. it can become a source of strength and safety even if it is built for violence." (I was gonna say "defend and protect", but he's still a shithead even when he has a sense of self and some free will.).

Anyways, Bronze Radio Return's stuff slaps, go listen. (Everything Moves and Shake, Shake, Shake are personal favourites. And yeah, I will admit, I found them via the Sol map.)

[shanamoreles]

Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers

Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers https://easylifeinnovation.wordpress.com/2024/04/07/commemorate-the-2024-eclipse-with-exclusive-stickers/ The 2024 total solar eclipse is more than just an astronomical event; it’s a celestial celebration that invites us to gaze upwards in awe and wonder. As the moon casts its shadow across North America, turning day into night, EasyLife Innovations is excited to recommend a special way to capture this momentous occasion: a set of three vibrant and uniquely designed Total Solar Eclipse Stickers, available now on Amazon. A Sticker for Every Eclipse Enthusiast Whether you’re an avid eclipse chaser, a casual observer, or looking for a meaningful gift, these stickers are a fantastic way to commemorate the upcoming eclipse. Designed with the enthusiast in mind, each sticker is a testament to the beauty and rarity of this event. Stick them on your laptop, car, water bottle, or any other surface to keep the memory of the eclipse alive. Why Our Recommended Stickers Stand Out Meaningful Gifting Made Easy: These stickers are more than just adornments; they’re tokens of affection. Gifting one of these stickers is a simple yet heartfelt way to show someone you care, offering them a tangible reminder of a shared experience that’s literally out of this world. Personalize with Purpose: In an era where personalization is key, these stickers allow you to express your unique style and interests. Easily applied to any smooth surface, they’re perfect for adding a personal touch to your belongings, showcasing your anticipation for the eclipse in a fun and stylish way. Perfectly Sized for Versatility: Crafted to fit various items, these stickers are made for maximum impact without overwhelming your space. The practical size ensures they’re an ideal addition to any item you choose to personalize. A Fit for All Occasions: Beyond the eclipse, these stickers are suitable for celebrating every occasion, from birthdays and holidays to personal achievements and more. They’re a versatile choice for adding a special touch to any event. Where to Find These Must-Have Stickers Ready to get your hands on these exclusive Total Solar Eclipse Stickers? While EasyLife Innovations is not the seller, we’re delighted to point you in the right direction. Simply visit Amazon and search for the Total Solar Eclipse Stickers by LECATI to purchase your set. It’s a small investment in making the 2024 eclipse an unforgettable part of your life. Your Satisfaction, Our Inspiration At EasyLife Innovations, your satisfaction drives us. Although we’re only referring this product and not selling it directly, we’re committed to recommending items that enrich your experiences. If you have any questions or need further assistance, we’re here for you. Don’t let this celestial event pass by without making it a lasting memory. Check out the Total Solar Eclipse Stickers on Amazon today and prepare to celebrate the eclipse in style! Other suggestions: Celebrate the 2024 Solar Eclipse with a Custom Ornament As a participant in the Amazon Associates program, EasyLife Innovations may earn from qualifying purchases. Our recommendation is based on our genuine belief in the product’s value to our customers. The post Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers first appeared on EasyLife Innovations. Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers published first on https://easylifeinnovations.com/ via EasyLife Innovations https://easylifeinnovation.wordpress.com April 07, 2024 at 08:00AM

[marjoribartel]

Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers

Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers https://easylifeinnovation.blogspot.com/2024/04/commemorate-2024-eclipse-with-exclusive.html The 2024 total solar eclipse is more than just an astronomical event; it’s a celestial celebration that invites us to gaze upwards in awe and wonder. As the moon casts its shadow across North America, turning day into night, EasyLife Innovations is excited to recommend a special way to capture this momentous occasion: a set of three vibrant and uniquely designed Total Solar Eclipse Stickers, available now on Amazon. A Sticker for Every Eclipse Enthusiast Whether you’re an avid eclipse chaser, a casual observer, or looking for a meaningful gift, these stickers are a fantastic way to commemorate the upcoming eclipse. Designed with the enthusiast in mind, each sticker is a testament to the beauty and rarity of this event. Stick them on your laptop, car, water bottle, or any other surface to keep the memory of the eclipse alive. Why Our Recommended Stickers Stand Out Meaningful Gifting Made Easy: These stickers are more than just adornments; they’re tokens of affection. Gifting one of these stickers is a simple yet heartfelt way to show someone you care, offering them a tangible reminder of a shared experience that’s literally out of this world. Personalize with Purpose: In an era where personalization is key, these stickers allow you to express your unique style and interests. Easily applied to any smooth surface, they’re perfect for adding a personal touch to your belongings, showcasing your anticipation for the eclipse in a fun and stylish way. Perfectly Sized for Versatility: Crafted to fit various items, these stickers are made for maximum impact without overwhelming your space. The practical size ensures they’re an ideal addition to any item you choose to personalize. A Fit for All Occasions: Beyond the eclipse, these stickers are suitable for celebrating every occasion, from birthdays and holidays to personal achievements and more. They’re a versatile choice for adding a special touch to any event. Where to Find These Must-Have Stickers Ready to get your hands on these exclusive Total Solar Eclipse Stickers? While EasyLife Innovations is not the seller, we’re delighted to point you in the right direction. Simply visit Amazon and search for the Total Solar Eclipse Stickers by LECATI to purchase your set. It’s a small investment in making the 2024 eclipse an unforgettable part of your life. Your Satisfaction, Our Inspiration At EasyLife Innovations, your satisfaction drives us. Although we’re only referring this product and not selling it directly, we’re committed to recommending items that enrich your experiences. If you have any questions or need further assistance, we’re here for you. Don’t let this celestial event pass by without making it a lasting memory. Check out the Total Solar Eclipse Stickers on Amazon today and prepare to celebrate the eclipse in style! Other suggestions: Celebrate the 2024 Solar Eclipse with a Custom Ornament As a participant in the Amazon Associates program, EasyLife Innovations may earn from qualifying purchases. Our recommendation is based on our genuine belief in the product’s value to our customers. The post Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers first appeared on EasyLife Innovations. Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers published first on https://easylifeinnovations.com/ via EasyLife Innovations https://easylifeinnovation.blogspot.com/ April 07, 2024 at 07:42AM

[catherinevander]

Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers

Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers https://www.tumblr.com/easylifeinnovations/747109684107968513 The 2024 total solar eclipse is more than just an astronomical event; it’s a celestial celebration that invites us to gaze upwards in awe and wonder. As the moon casts its shadow across North America, turning day into night, EasyLife Innovations is excited to recommend a special way to capture this momentous occasion: a set of three vibrant and uniquely designed Total Solar Eclipse Stickers, available now on Amazon. A Sticker for Every Eclipse Enthusiast Whether you’re an avid eclipse chaser, a casual observer, or looking for a meaningful gift, these stickers are a fantastic way to commemorate the upcoming eclipse. Designed with the enthusiast in mind, each sticker is a testament to the beauty and rarity of this event. Stick them on your laptop, car, water bottle, or any other surface to keep the memory of the eclipse alive. Why Our Recommended Stickers Stand Out Meaningful Gifting Made Easy: These stickers are more than just adornments; they’re tokens of affection. Gifting one of these stickers is a simple yet heartfelt way to show someone you care, offering them a tangible reminder of a shared experience that’s literally out of this world. Personalize with Purpose: In an era where personalization is key, these stickers allow you to express your unique style and interests. Easily applied to any smooth surface, they’re perfect for adding a personal touch to your belongings, showcasing your anticipation for the eclipse in a fun and stylish way. Perfectly Sized for Versatility: Crafted to fit various items, these stickers are made for maximum impact without overwhelming your space. The practical size ensures they’re an ideal addition to any item you choose to personalize. A Fit for All Occasions: Beyond the eclipse, these stickers are suitable for celebrating every occasion, from birthdays and holidays to personal achievements and more. They’re a versatile choice for adding a special touch to any event. Where to Find These Must-Have Stickers Ready to get your hands on these exclusive Total Solar Eclipse Stickers? While EasyLife Innovations is not the seller, we’re delighted to point you in the right direction. Simply visit Amazon and search for the Total Solar Eclipse Stickers by LECATI to purchase your set. It’s a small investment in making the 2024 eclipse an unforgettable part of your life. Your Satisfaction, Our Inspiration At EasyLife Innovations, your satisfaction drives us. Although we’re only referring this product and not selling it directly, we’re committed to recommending items that enrich your experiences. If you have any questions or need further assistance, we’re here for you. Don’t let this celestial event pass by without making it a lasting memory. Check out the Total Solar Eclipse Stickers on Amazon today and prepare to celebrate the eclipse in style! Other suggestions: Celebrate the 2024 Solar Eclipse with a Custom Ornament As a participant in the Amazon Associates program, EasyLife Innovations may earn from qualifying purchases. Our recommendation is based on our genuine belief in the product’s value to our customers. The post Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers first appeared on EasyLife Innovations. Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers published first on https://easylifeinnovations.com/ via EasyLife Innovations https://easylifeinnovations.tumblr.com/ April 07, 2024 at 07:15AM

[easylifeinnovations]

Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers

The 2024 total solar eclipse is more than just an astronomical event; it’s a celestial celebration that invites us to gaze upwards in awe and wonder. As the moon casts its shadow across North America, turning day into night, EasyLife Innovations is excited to recommend a special way to capture this momentous occasion: a set of three vibrant and uniquely designed Total Solar Eclipse Stickers, available now on Amazon. A Sticker for Every Eclipse Enthusiast Whether you’re an avid eclipse chaser, a casual observer, or looking for a meaningful gift, these stickers are a fantastic way to commemorate the upcoming eclipse. Designed with the enthusiast in mind, each sticker is a testament to the beauty and rarity of this event. Stick them on your laptop, car, water bottle, or any other surface to keep the memory of the eclipse alive. Why Our Recommended Stickers Stand Out Meaningful Gifting Made Easy: These stickers are more than just adornments; they’re tokens of affection. Gifting one of these stickers is a simple yet heartfelt way to show someone you care, offering them a tangible reminder of a shared experience that’s literally out of this world. Personalize with Purpose: In an era where personalization is key, these stickers allow you to express your unique style and interests. Easily applied to any smooth surface, they’re perfect for adding a personal touch to your belongings, showcasing your anticipation for the eclipse in a fun and stylish way. Perfectly Sized for Versatility: Crafted to fit various items, these stickers are made for maximum impact without overwhelming your space. The practical size ensures they’re an ideal addition to any item you choose to personalize. A Fit for All Occasions: Beyond the eclipse, these stickers are suitable for celebrating every occasion, from birthdays and holidays to personal achievements and more. They’re a versatile choice for adding a special touch to any event. Where to Find These Must-Have Stickers Ready to get your hands on these exclusive Total Solar Eclipse Stickers? While EasyLife Innovations is not the seller, we’re delighted to point you in the right direction. Simply visit Amazon and search for the Total Solar Eclipse Stickers by LECATI to purchase your set. It’s a small investment in making the 2024 eclipse an unforgettable part of your life. Your Satisfaction, Our Inspiration At EasyLife Innovations, your satisfaction drives us. Although we’re only referring this product and not selling it directly, we’re committed to recommending items that enrich your experiences. If you have any questions or need further assistance, we’re here for you. Don’t let this celestial event pass by without making it a lasting memory. Check out the Total Solar Eclipse Stickers on Amazon today and prepare to celebrate the eclipse in style! Other suggestions: Celebrate the 2024 Solar Eclipse with a Custom Ornament As a participant in the Amazon Associates program, EasyLife Innovations may earn from qualifying purchases. Our recommendation is based on our genuine belief in the product’s value to our customers. The post Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers first appeared on EasyLife Innovations. Commemorate the 2024 Eclipse with Exclusive Stickers published first on https://easylifeinnovations.com/

[lesfeldickbiblestudy]

What is the only way to be saved during this present age of grace? [convertplayer id="nMsTZKi9a" width="700" height="525"] Now let’s look at the Gospel as outlined in I Corinthians Chapter 15, and beginning with verse 1. I never tire of repeating it, and I hope you never get tired of hearing it. I Corinthians 15:1   "MOREOVER, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand;"   "...wherein ye stand" is a positional term. That’s why he writes in another place that we are not to be blown about with every wind of doctrine. Some people are so shallow in their understanding of Scriptures, that they see someone on television or someone can come to their door and they have a good line, and a nice approach, and they fall for it. We are supposed to be so well versed in the Scriptures that something like that won’t happen. We are to be like an anchor, steadfast, immovable. Now verse 2. I Corinthians 15:2,3   "By which also ye are saved (it’s only by this Gospel that you are saved. It’s not by something else), if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain." And now here comes Paul’s Gospel in verse 3: "For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received (here he’s talking about what we saw in Galatians in our last lesson, how that by revelation, "He made known unto me," Paul says. This is what the Lord revealed to him. We will find that Paul’s Gospel is not based on the Judaistic Law, or just on the fact that Christ was the Messiah of Israel, but it’s that The Messiah of Israel, The Son of God, died on that Roman Cross, shed His Blood, was buried and rose again, and here it is), how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;" This was in the Old Testament. It was all in the pre-eternal mind of God, that all of this would fall into place.   I Corinthians 15:4-6a   "And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures." That’s the Gospel! And to prove that Christ rose from the dead we see in verse 5 and 6 the following. "And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once;..."   Paul tells us that he also saw Him in person. Paul knew that He was alive. Now back to Romans 1:16. That’s The Gospel – that Christ died for the sins of the world. And that’s what Paul expressly desires to get across to people. It’s so hard for people to comprehend that this is all they have to do. Just believe the Gospel for Salvation. If you really believe He will save you. Now you know that I’m not an easy believer. You know that. I’m not just talking about making a mental acknowledgment and you’re all right. No, what I’m talking about is a Holy Spirit driven belief, that my eternal destiny is based on what He did for me on that Cross. And we will be seeing more and more of that, especially when we get into Romans Chapter 6, where Paul just begins to draw that simple analogy of a little seed that’s planted in the ground, but before that plant can come forth, and bring forth fruit it must die first. So the whole analogy is that, "When Christ died, we died. When He was buried, we were buried. When He arose from the dead, we also arose out of deadness in the old Adamic sin nature to a new life." Verse 16 again: Romans 1:16   "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it (The Gospel, not our works, or denomination, not anything that we can do, but rather The Gospel) is the power of God unto salvation..."   One of the newer translations waters this down by using the word ‘salvation’ as a better way to heaven. Salvation is much more than a better way to heaven. Salvation is that all inclusive work of God on our behalf, whereby we are forgiven: He justifies us, He sanctifies us, He glorifies us, He baptizes us into the Body, He seals us with the Holy Spirit, He fills us with the Holy Spirit, and on and on you can go in all t

hat was accomplished on your behalf by an act of God instantly the moment you believe. And you’re not going to necessarily feel any of those things, but they have happened to you if you were genuine in your belief. But how do I know that these things have happened to me? The Book says so. And that’s where faith comes in. That’s what The Book means when it says we are saved by faith and are to live and walk by faith. Taking God at His Word. So, you just simply have to know what The Book says. When you come to Salvation, and say, "I don’t understand this or feel any different," remember The Book says that it has happened. And that is what God is pleased by. Remember Hebrews 11:6: Hebrews 11:6a   "But without faith it is impossible to please him:..."   You should be able to say, "Yes, I know that I’m forgiven," not because I’m so perfect, or any better than anybody else, but simply because I believe what this Book says! I can’t make it any plainer than that. So when an individual realizes that he’s in the cesspool of sin, in that old slave market, and there is no hope of getting out, unless the power of God takes him out; God pulls him out of that deadness in sin, and gives him new life, sets his feet as the Scriptures say, "On a Rock," and does all these things for him. That’s what believing does! After that, you become a totally new person in your outlook on life, in your desires, and you don’t work for that. Remember, you won’t become a mature Christian overnight. It’s going to take time. The Christian life is like coming into physical life. We come into the Christian life as a babe in Christ, just an infant that needs tender loving care. An infant that needs nourishment, and protection. That’s what a new believer is. But God doesn’t expect a new believer to stay a babe in Christ. He expects them to begin to grow in Grace, and knowledge and wisdom. To grow in a new lifestyle. Over the years I’ve told my classes the basic fundamental aspect of a Christian life, the part that will immediately become visible to our friends and relatives, and yes, the whole community; a true born again child of God is going to be a good citizen. Have you ever thought of that? When we are a practicing believer, we will be a good citizen. In other words, you won’t find a true child of God giving the police department fits. Now there may be isolated instances, that’s always a possibility. But the basic believer will be a good citizen, and a good parent. He will be a good grandparent. He will be a good child. He will be a good teenager. Now that doesn’t mean we are perfect. Nevertheless, we will be the kind of person that will enhance society. If you could have a community of 100% born again believers, then you would have a pretty decent place to live. I’m not saying that it would be perfect. It’s just like the local church, no church is perfect. I said on this program once, if it was perfect I’d like to find it, but I wouldn’t dare join it because it would be no longer perfect. But, for the most part, God’s power unto salvation has imparted all these things on our behalf and they will make us different. That doesn’t give us the right to walk around like we are perfect, or better than everybody else. But what we have is an imputed position that God has accomplished on our behalf. We will look at that more in depth later in Chapter 3. Romans 1:16b   "...for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first and also to the Greek."   I said at the close of the last lesson that there were many things in there that normally people would think should be. Over the years, I have taught to be aware of what is not in Scripture that many of us think should be. Well, here is a good one. Let me read this verse the way a lot of people think it should have been written. This is just an example: "For it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that repents, and is baptized, joins the church, gives ten percent of his income, does good works, and believes."&n

bsp;But it doesn’t say that does it? There are a lot of these things that people just automatically think are requirements for Salvation, and they’re not! They are all right in their rightful place after Salvation. But so far as our salvation is concerned it’s based totally upon our faith in the Gospel, and what God has said concerning the finished work of the Cross.