#who needed to be included because of his truly mountainous stature

[shepherds-of-haven]

My thanks to @queen-scribbles for making me aware that this tool existed... 😳 I need to think about some things...

[robininthelabyrinth]

Sometimes if you pray to someone enough, they become a god. The people of Yunmeng have been praying to Jiang Cheng since he rebuilt Lotus Pier.

Everyone thought it started later.

With Jiang Cheng rebuilding the Lotus Pier with his own hands, side by side with cultivators and common folk alike, working on it night and day – the real cause for his enthusiasm was insomnia, spurred on by endless nightmares, but to an outsider it looked a lot like virtue. When there was no more building to be done, he took up his sword and went night-hunting: not for fame or glory, though he would hardly refuse those, but simply to have something to do. Nothing, no matter how small, escaped his grasp.

It’s said that Hanguang-Jun went where the chaos was, but he never needed to come to Yunmeng. Jiang Cheng, as terrifying as he might be, a force of nature in wind and lightning, would always get there first.

Everyone thought it was because of Zidian.

After all, to a common person, what sort of person can call lightning into their hand with little more than a thought? Even cultivators, rarely seen and mysterious, could not reliably do such a thing, and Jiang Cheng’s ancestors had generally been respectful of the ancient spiritual weapon, using it only for war.

It wasn’t that Jiang Cheng wasn’t respectful of Zidian. It was only that in time it became as much a part of him as his own right hand, and he had never learned to stay his hand when anger filled him from head to toe. Zidian crackled on his knuckles when his nephew irritated him, when something when wrong, when he felt upset – the sight of the lightning comforted him, reminded him of his mother’s devotion, and let him feel powerful when he felt powerless.

Still, it did mean the common people saw a lot more of it than they had before.

Some people – including Jiang Cheng – thought it was because of Wei Wuxian.

The majority thought only that Wei Wuxian, that daring genius, that talent that hadn’t been seen in a thousand years, had done something; the minority who knew what it was that he had done, the truth of the golden core settled in Jiang Cheng’s belly, believed that it was Wei Wuxian’s merits that had set Jiang Cheng on the road to glory.

Those people were all wrong.

It was true that cultivation was a means to fight against one’s fate, and that it could, if perfected, give a man the chance to leap up to a higher branch and become a god in a single moment, the right opportunity of fate and luck and merit.

That just wasn’t what happened, that’s all.

Wei Wuxian was a talent not seen in a thousand years, that much was true, but the same could be said for many others in his generation: times of anguish were often fertile grounds for geniuses. Hanguang-jun himself, who took Wei Wuxian as his husband, was very nearly perfect in his sect’s cultivation style, upright and righteous even beyond their expectations, and yet he also fulfilled the requirements of Wei Wuxian’s Jiang sect, being free in his heart and defying all odds to claim the man he loved. If there was anyone the cultivation world could place their hopes on, it was him.

Not Jiang Cheng. Easily angered, overly emotional, too competitive, overly trusting, self-sacrificing yet selfish – not Jiang Cheng.

And yet when the lightning tribulation came, when the opportunity to ascend to the heavens appeared, it appeared to Jiang Cheng, not Hanguang-Jun.

The truth was: Jiang Cheng did not cultivate to greatness and godhood.

The truth was:

It began years ago.

The lady of the Jiang sect was cultivating alongside her husband, with her two children brought along to gain experience by proxy, but night-hunting was sometimes a dangerous sport and this particular evening they left them behind in the small, obscure village at the foot of the mountains; a place that no one cared about, nobody noticed.

Jiang Yanli was polite and kind to their well-paid hosts; Jiang Cheng was restless, and snuck out the window to go walk around.

He had very little spiritual energy back then, being only a small child, but his mother was fierce and strict, and he knew the basics. When he found the village children grieving over an injured dog, which panted and whined in agony, he squatted down at once and stained himself to the utmost to transfer his little store of energy to the dog.

The dog was healed, and tottered to its feet, happily licking the faces of all those who came by.

“How did you do that?” one of the village children asked, but, embarrassed at the new experience of being talked to by a child his own age, Jiang Cheng fled instead of answering.

The money the Jiang sect leaders had spent was used, eventually, to send the best and brightest of those children to school, and it just so happened that that child, too, was a talent that hadn’t been seen for years; he scored well in the imperial examinations and became an official. He never forgot his home, going back often to Yunmeng and offering money and help to all those who asked; his little obscure village whose name was commonly forgotten became wealthy, and its children, now grown, spread out across the land – and with them went their little superstitions, formed in their youth, of praying for good luck from a youth dressed all in purple, who’d said his name was Jiang Cheng.

It didn’t take long before someone connected the local god that had given the children such fortune with the Jiang Cheng that swept through their lands like a scourge aimed at evildoers: a man who had survived his own family’s ruin and resurrected a dead sect from the ashes all on his own, a man who summoned the wind and lightning at will to scold his impudent nephew, a man who would come no matter how far the distance at the merest hint that a demonic cultivator had emerged to torment the common people, refusing to tolerate injustice.

The stories, exaggerated through retelling, spread through the common people.

It began at the outskirts of Yunmeng, where the cultivators and cynical wits of the Lotus Pier rarely went; by the time it reached further in, the stories had become fantastical and personal – a sea captain swearing that he’d been rescued from pirates by a lightning storm that sent down purple lightning, a village talking about how Jiang Cheng had come in person to eliminate a demonic cultivator that would have become the next Yiling Patriarch if he’d been left unchecked, a housewife shyly whispering about how her children had become filial at last after a mere glimpse of him.

When the Jiang sect cultivators, travelling around, first heard the stories, they laughed in delight – teasing their too-prickly sect leader was a popular pastime, since his bark was invariably worse than his bite – and immediately set to telling even more stories. And so the tales of what Jiang Cheng had achieved during the Sunshot Campaign, previously limited to the world of cultivators, began to circulate among the common people, and even made its way to a certain court official in a far-off capital, who told his Emperor about it.

It was truly a coincidence that around the same time, the Emperor’s favorite son encountered a misfortune, surrounded and assaulted by wicked creatures, and that Jiang Cheng, night-hunting in the area because he couldn’t sleep and because he simply refused to stay one moment longer in the house where Hanguang-Jun and Wei Wuxian were stuffing everyone full of dog food, was bored enough to intervene with a flick of his finger.

The Emperor was still laughing about his earnest official’s little backwater superstition, for which he’d indulgently lit a candle as a reward for an especially fine display of merit – such a charming request, so naïve and innocent, he could hardly believe it, and he’d added the gold and honors the work had really deserved on top as a matter of course – when he received the letter from his son, telling him about how purple lightning had descended from nowhere in a night with a clear sky, saving him from certain death.

Only a sailor was more superstitious than an Emperor.

In his overwhelming relief, he ordered a temple to be built, and the poor folk of the capital flocked over to see who this new god was: it turned out that part of his legend involved dogs, which was fairly rare for a god, and since plenty of people in the capital had dogs that they treasured like part of the family, it was easy enough to accept him.

Eventually the story of the temple (and its copycats, quickly constructed or converted) made its way, carried by merchants, to Lanling; the young sect leader there rolled around on the floor laughing and insisted on going to visit every single one of them.

He brought his spiritual dog, his friends, and a very great deal of spending money.

Every single town that had put up a temple to the god of purple lightning was suddenly flooded with good fortune: money, money, and more money, with cultivators in yellow competing with those in white to buy better gifts for those at home, and the gifts they liked best of all were the ones sold by the temples.

Even the local dogs suddenly all became well behaved after meeting with the cultivator’s husky.

(It wasn’t a husky, it was a fairy! One of the villagers insisted. You’re all blind – didn’t you hear the way the cultivator in yellow and gold referred to it? I’m telling you, it was a fairy rescued by Jiang Cheng years ago and given to the cultivator as a gift –)

Good fortune begets more good fortune: even more temples began to be built, and the ones that had become rich overnight had not yet had time to formulate the habits of the wealthy; they were initially inclined to spend their money locally, rewarding good deeds, rather than consolidate influence or seek position, and that encouraged even more people to come to pray. Eventually, of course, one of the temples ended up in the hands of an ambitious man, who used the unexpected fortune to raise his family’s stature, and that made the temples a matter of interest to the wealthy, too.

It was a joke in the Lotus Pier, Jiang Cheng going around with red ears and a furious temper that refused to hear a further word about it – not that that stopped anyone, most especially Wei Wuxian, who had taken to telling outrageous tales of the godly Jiang Cheng everywhere he and Hanguang-jun travelled.  

Outside of it, though, it became less and less of a joke, especially as the wheel turned and the generations shifted; what one generation thought of as a novelty, the next accepted as a matter of course.

And so one day, the skies above Yunmeng opened up, the lightning tribulation descending, and –

“Hanguang-jun! Senior Wei! A story has just come – Jiang Cheng ascended to immortality!”

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Wei Wuxian said with a smile.

“It’s true,” the junior insisted. “I’ve heard about it from three different sources – I’ve even heard that Sect Leader Jin has already gone to the Lotus Pier to investigate; I heard the senior people there sent him a letter, most urgently.”

“An urgent letter?” Wei Wuxian asked, smile starting to fade. “Lan Zhan, do you think something actually happened to that brat Jiang Cheng?”

Lan Wangji shrugged, indicating that he didn’t know.

Wei Wuxian huffed, amused, and looked up to the sky. “Hey, Jiang Cheng! If you’ve really ascended to the heavens and become a god, you’d better come and tell me yourself, or I’ll never forgive you!”

The sky was clear that day, with only a scattering of pale white clouds.

There was nowhere in nature for the rumble of thunder to come from, and Wei Wuxian, who had turned away, turned back to the outside with a confused expression: how had it suddenly become dark? Where had the thunderclouds come from? Why was there lightning –

There was a flash so bright it blinded the eyes, searing purple, and suddenly Jiang Cheng was there, standing in front of Wei Wuxian.

“Don’t threaten me, I hate that,” he said.

Wei Wuxian gaped at him. “Jiang Cheng? Where..?”

“I can’t stay long, too much to do,” Jiang Cheng said, scowling; it was a familiar look on his face. “Tell Jin Ling he either has to find someone else to do the damn job or consolidate Lotus Pier and Lanling, and not to pray for help too often or I’ll break his legs. And anyway, for you –”

With Wei Wuxian still speechless, he didn’t have any time to react before Jiang Cheng moved, slapping his hand right up against Wei Wuxian’s dantian: the weak golden core inside, a gift from Mo Xuanyu, suddenly glowed bright, strengthening back to what Wei Wuxian had had before he had given it away.

“I can’t give you more than what you had; cultivation is fighting the fates, and every man’s path is his own,” Jiang Cheng said, looking irritated by this inescapable law of the heavens. “But at minimum I can restore your potential – not that I think you’ll stop with the demonic cultivation, because you’re you, but at least a stronger golden core will help mitigate the effects, and make your lifespan more similar to Hanguang-jun’s. Who is not getting any sort of gift from me,” he added with a glare, “is that understood?”

Lan Wangji’s eyebrows had arched up and he stared wordlessly at Jiang Cheng, who immediately became so uncomfortable with it that he shifted from one leg to the other and then spat, “Fine, one gift, whatever. Think about it carefully. Anyway, I’m going now. Don’t bother me too often – but don’t not bother me at all, you hear me? Or I’ll find a way to break your legs.”

Another flash of lightning, and he was gone.

Wei Wuxian put his hand to his dantian, which still glowed warm, the strength starting to spread through his veins to his entire body – he’d forgotten how nice the feeling was, having never expected to feel it again.

“Lan Zhan,” he said blankly. “Did – Jiang Cheng – he just –”

Lan Wangji exhaled; in anyone else, it might have been called an aggravated sigh.

“We should,” he said, “probably set up a shrine.”

[midearthwritings]

Could I please get an Lotr and The Hobbit Matchup, of you're still doing them? Thanks so much!

🌱 18 year old Woman // Bisexual // Autistic and Disabled with a bonus Anxiety Disorder

🌱 I have a litany of Chronic Illnesses including Autism, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Dyscalculia (Dyslexia for Math), Scoliosis, Sleep Apnea, Asthma, a Growth Hormone Deficiency, Insomnia, and a very bad Overbite. I also have a condition where my right leg is physically longer than my left, which causes pain in my hip and right leg, as well as trouble walking. My usual symptoms include Fatigue, Back Pain, Executive Dysfunction (struggle to get tasks done), Difficulty breathing and talking, Very short stature, and difficulties with my balance. I also stim by pacing around in circles and talking to myself.

🌱 I have a serious fear of heights, partially because of my balance issues. It's so bad that I can't even use stairs without holding onto the railing.

🌱 I know a lot of Home Remedies and Superstitions for like no reason. For instance, did you know that Raspberry Tea helps with Menstrual Pain, or that knocking on wood invokes the protection of the tree spirit and that’s why it’s said to give you luck? I don’t know why I know that, but I do.

🌱 Winning a fight is on my bucket list, but it has to be for a good reason. I’m not one to just pick fights for the sake of fighting, and I’m actually pretty conflict-averse due to trauma, so I need to actually have a solid reason for throwing hands. But I’ve always wanted to do it for some reason.

🌱 I really like studying Witchcraft for some reason. The first spell I ever performed was a Healing Spell to help my friend who was sick with Crohn's Disease. Thirty minutes after performing the ritual, I got a text saying he felt a lot better and he was released from the hospital a couple days later, so I guess it must’ve worked. 😁

🌱 My love language is definitely gift giving. I’m pretty cheap, but I’m also an artist, so when push comes to shove I’ll just make something for someone when I like them. I pay very close attention to what people like because it gives me more ideas on how to interact with them. I’m essentially a large, flightless Crow. You were nice, so you get something shiny. But though I like giving gifts to others, I’m not very materialistic at all. I prefer to be practical when it comes to things, and I get very nervous when spending money on myself.

🌱 I’m an avid writer and am actually planning on publishing a book this summer!

🌱 I LOVE going outside and getting messy. Playing in the mud, getting soaked in the rain, I’m the type to go outside and come back home covered in dirt and twigs. It’s just really fun to me.

🌱 I've been told that I'm a very good cook, and I can bake pretty well too.

🌱 I’ve always wanted to be a really good gardener. My dream house is just covered in flowers and plants and such. I want to live in a Greenhouse, basically.

🌱 I have a habit of giggling to myself just by remembering something funny that happened, even if it was a couple years ago. I also laugh when I do something stupid, because I find my flaws and shortcomings funny for the most part. I love to laugh with people, but never at them.

🌱 I know way too much about Spirits and Fae. My favorite book is called ‘The Encyclopedia of Spirits’ and it shows you how to contact and interact with a ton of different deities and spirits, and I’m addicted to reading it. It’s the best.

🌱 I’m basically like a tiny, less-impressive Aragorn. I love travelling on foot, getting messy outside, I was kind of a Horse Girl as a kid ngl, I’ve always wanted to be a knight or king of some sort, chances are that I haven’t bathed in awhile, and I too would pine for a hot elf girl for literal years on end.

🌱 My closest friends say I give off “Dwobbit” vibes. That’s a ½ Dwarf and ½ Hobbit btw. I’m around 4’ 10” tall, I don’t shave, I love crafting and art, I live in the Mountains, I’m tomboyish but I also love gardening and can be a bit of a homebody, I love going barefoot, etc.

🌱 I really love History, Folklore, Mythology and Fairy Tales. My favorite is the Irish myth of Oisín in Tir Na Nog. Look it up if you don’t know it, it’s a fantastic story. But I also appreciate myths from all sorts of different cultures, like the myth of Annapurna in India or the tale of Princess Kaguya in Japan.

🌱 I’m an Aquarius, INFP and 4w5 if that means anything. For reference, characters who are also 4w5 INFPs include Lydia Deetz (Beetlejuice), Wirt (Otgw), Frankenstein’s Monster, Luna Lovegood (HP), Napstablook (Undertale), Erik The Phantom of the Opera, and Celeste from Animal Crossing. That kinda tells you a lot about me, doesn’t it?

🌱 I am naturally very shy and take awhile to open up to people. I also get flustered very easily and tend to avoid social interaction a lot. I’m a huge introvert, but I also really do love meeting interesting people, so I try to talk to them when I have the energy to.

🌱 I have very long Disheveled brown hair, that actually used to be blonde when I was little, so there’s a few lighter patches in there. It's essentially a fluffy mane at this point, but because of my poor hand-eye coordination I never learned how to braid it. I have really pale skin, with lots of moles, freckles and scabs. It’s also warmer out, so I almost certainly have a farmer’s tan. I have very light blue eyes and glasses.

🌱 I have a habit of seeing shadows move out of the corners of my eyes, frequently mistaking them for people or animals, but when I turn to look there’s nothing there. I’ve gotten my eyesight checked multiple times, but there’s nothing out of the ordinary, so it’s either a lack of sleep, or the Fae are getting antsy with me. Probably the former of course, but part of me would like to believe the latter too.

Sorry the description is so long, I can't wait to see my results! Thanks so much, wishing you the best!!

Hey darling! First, wow that was really long! Sorry for taking so long to make it, as I mentioned before, I'm a fucking procrastinator.

Aragorn

For LOTR, I'm pairing you up with Aragorn.

Aragorn had probably loved you for a really really long time.

But he's extremely patient and careful with you, so it took him a while to confess his love.

When he did, it was kind of overwhelming for you, and you were really doubting the whole thing. But again, he was really patient with you.

Aragorn doesn't cover you in gifts to show his love. He shows it by remembering all those little things that make you you.

The two of you can spend hours telling stories and tales to the other. It's your favorite thing to do together.

He loves that you write and always ask to read your work. Although, he never pushes you and respects you when you refuse.

He knows about every single one of your illnesses and makes sure that you always have what you need.

Bilbo Baggins

For the Hobbit, I picked Bilbo.

Bilbo loves you deeply and truly. He thinks all the things that are annoying to others are what make you the most unique being he has ever met.

He thinks listening to you tell tales is more fascinating than reading.

Most of all, he loves when you read to him the stories that you have created.

Sometimes, your illnesses are a bit complicated for him to understand, but he does his best and listens to your needs.

His favorite thing to do with you is cooking. Sometimes, you will even compete over who is the best cook. Although he admitted more than once that you were.

When you are out gardening, he sits outside with you and watches you. He thinks it's beautiful how hard you work to make his garden look so gorgeous.

He is often insecure about losing you. He is scared that he won't be able to provide you with what you need, or won't be able to show you how much he loves you.

As for you, you fear that one day he might grow tired of you.

But the communication in your relationship is great and your insecurities are even washed away by promises of eternal love.

Again, sorry for the wait! I hope you liked it!

[dailyaudiobible]

02/04/2020 DAB Transcript

Exodus 19:16-21:21, Matthew 23:13-39, Psalms 28:1-9, Proverbs 7:1-5

Today is the 4th day of the month of February, welcome to the Daily Audio Bible I'm Brian it is great to be here with you today as we…as we take the next step forward and reach forward for what comes next. And we’ve been spending our time working through the book of Exodus in the Old Testament, which is what we’ll continue to do. We’re reading from the Voice Translation this week. Exodus chapter 19 verse 16 through 21 verse 21. And just by way of reminder the children of Israel have an appointment with the Almighty God who is coming to speak to them at the mountain of God. Exodus chapter 19.

Commentary:

Okay. So, God has come down upon Mount Sinai in the…in the desert in the wilderness. The people are all around the mountain. They’re not allowed to go upon it. And God has come to speak directly with the people. The people don't want God to speak directly to them. They’re too afraid and so they're essentially telling Moses. “you speak on behalf of God and we will listen to you and do whatever you say.” And, so, in so many ways the people are affirming Moses as a prophet. That is what a prophet does, speak on behalf of God to the people, which shows us the importance of the prophet being genuine. We will learn about false prophets in the Scriptures. We will also see that there are consequences in this new society that God is being built for people who claim to speak in the name of the Lord but aren't at all. But let's notice what's beginning to happen here. People are gathered around the mountain of God. God begins to speak to them. He begins to tell them what they are going to look like as a people. And, so, we encounter famously the 10 Commandments as well as other instructions including like instructions about servants and slaves. And, so, we can scratch our head and read the 21st-century into the ancient Scriptures and go, “well…what's that doing in the Bible”, not understanding that we have to get ourselves the context of what's happening here, what's actually going on and why it matters. The children of Israel have only ever been slaves. So, 400 years have gone by and no one's going to be 400 or more years old at this point, right? So, every single person that came out of Egypt was born a slave and left Egypt as a slave. All they ever knew was how to be a slave. All they ever knew of the culture was whatever had been inherited - part of Egyptian, part Hebrew, mostly all slave. They don't…they don't know how to go into a promised land and establish it and set up the leadership and rule under God and be a nation of priests to the world. What they do know how to be is a slave. And, so, for God to give provisions about slaves and essentially say they are hired laborers for a period of time and this is how it works. This is a gigantic can take step forward in the world at this time. The idea that there are term limits, the idea that there are any rights whatsoever of the slave, even a free person who has been captured in battle and made a slave. So, we have made some pretty significant progress in the world over the last several thousand years. But we are also watching God establish revolutionary ideas and concepts about culture because that is fundamentally what we are in the wilderness for. That is fundamentally what's happening here. The children of Israel know how to be slaves. They don't know how to be anything else. They don't know how to be the chosen people of God. They don't know how to be a nation of priests. They don't know anything but what they have always known. And, so, God has brought them into the wilderness where they have no way out. They have got to depend upon Him for their survival. And that is a fundamental principle that is a baseline truth for this new thing that God is doing among the Hebrew people. And, so, what we are beginning to experience is the giving of the law, the law of God, the law that would govern this people that would inform them into a cohesive people moving in a specific direction for specific purposes. They were the chosen people, and they were chosen to bless the world. So, we have in some ways begun to shift our narrative. Like this is a very dramatic story with the plagues and everything in the Exodus from Egypt and the Red Sea but we’ve begun to shift the narrative now to where the people are hearing what God wants to shape, like how He is going to knit these people together as the family of God and what He expects. And what we’re going to notice is that everything, everything about this law…and some of these things we’re gonna scratch our head and say go, “that is so antiquated I can’t even imagine doing that.” That was thousands of years ago but the essence of what God is knitting together is that everything that they do reminds them of who they are and who God is and where they're going. It's being baked into the new culture that is emerging. And, so, yeah, we’ll go into all kinds of stature…we’re going to read the book of the law and it will read like a law book. But before we even get there understanding this is where it's going. What God is doing is bringing His people into the wilderness where they have to listen, and they have to learn to trust or they will not survive. And then God is beginning to instruct them. What's happening is the world is moving forward. The way people deal with each other is being reimagined. Okay…so…so that’s that…

…and then we turn the page into Matthew, and we see Jesus is just very ticked off, “woe to you, You brood of vipers, you whitewashed tombs.” Like He’s just going off. And who is He going off on? The religious leaders who are responsible for stewarding the law. What had happened is they lost the plot along the way and the law was no longer like this way of living, this way of being, this is way of staying set apart and pure and so everything that you did reminded you you were in covenant with God. Instead, all that was lost in favor of ritual, in favor of following the letter of the law. And that became nothing more than controlling the people. And, so for Jesus to make commentary today like He did so directs, He’s basically saying, “Are you so stupid”, right? “Are you so blind? Are you so ignorant? Can't you see you've lost the plot here?” Of course, power obscures all kinds of things that we know are right and all kinds of things that we know are wrong and they have power and it's a very tenuous power because the Roman Empire is in charge, but they are allowing these Hebrew people to kind of maintain their own subculture, a separatist culture. And, so, these religious leaders are just trying to keep everything moving forward and stay in power and stay in control and Jesus sees right through it. Jesus sees right through everything. Jesus sees the truth in all things. That is having eyes to see and ears to hear. And, so, in some ways, in today's reading, we get a glimpse of the time when the law when instructions are just being first given and then we get to zoom forward a couple of millennia into the first century in the time of Jesus and see what became of things and what God in the flesh, what Jesus has to say about what they're doing and He doesn't like it.

Prayer:

Father, we thank You. We thank You for Your word and we thank You for this…this kind of perspective where we can look sort of like before and after and we don't have all of the story in between but that’s the story of the Bible, that’s what we’re doing every day step-by-step day by day and all of these things will be filled. But we get this glimpse that it's not about what You look like, it's not what You can present, it's not in the way that You can perform in front of people, how pious and holy You are. It's what's inside of us that's true. And we watch You Jesus looking at the truth in everything that You do. And, so, we believe that You are looking at us and You can see the truth. We can't hide it from You. We can’t do a dance and fool You. We can't change the tone of voice that we’re using or put-on makeup or wear a hat or hide in the other way. You see the truth about us. That can be unnerving, or it can be freeing. Finally, finally, in all of the earth there is one who would look upon us and see us as we truly are and still love us enough to die for us. We thank You for that. We want this to compel us and shift us that we might press in and move away from all that is false so that we can find freedom in the truths because the truth sets us free. Come Holy Spirit we pray. In the name of Jesus, we ask. Amen.

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And that's it for today. I’m Brian I love you and I'll be waiting for you here tomorrow.

Community Prayer and Praise:

Good afternoon Daily Audio Bible it's January the 30th and this is Chris Ann calling back in. And I'm just asking for some continued prayer for…for me for decisions that I need to make in my life. As you may have remembered several times that I've called in, I'm separated from my husband, separated for several years and it's just been a very difficult journey. And while I feel like I'm supposed to keep praying through this it's just getting harder and harder. It…I miss my family, I miss my husband, I miss…even though that the situation was that he did what he did and wasn't faithful that I still miss him, and I still care for him very deeply. And I miss my son and just so much that's been going on from last year even into this year that the stress on me has caused me not to feel well. And I have an older dog that I know that while he's in pretty decent health I know that he's…he's got a little heart murmur that's going on and just ask for his body just to be healed and…because he is my comfort that I have right now at home and it's just hard. It's hard. I don't even know how to explain it, but at times it's very lonely and it's hard and I just need some prayer just to get me through this. And thank you all so much. God bless.

Hi Daily Audio Bible this is Renzo from Maryland. I just want to say thank you guys for everything you're doing. It's a blessing. I just caught up. I was behind like 14 days. So, I just thank God that He's just really been blessing me to just catch up and get closer and closer to Him. And I just want to pray for anybody that’s just going through anything hard times, going through anything like depression because I heard that only the line, depression and stuff like that. Just please…just Father God, I just thank You for everything that You do for us God and just please just help people who are struggling with depression God. Just please help them to get closer and closer to You God and the Holy Spirit to guide them and please help them just keep listening to the Bible because the Bible is so relational, and it just gives us a perfect guideline in Jesus name I pray. Amen. Praying for you guys God bless you.

This is Mike in Tampa I've been a long-time listener. I haven't called in a very long time probably several…about four years now but I was especially moved to call in when Desiree got on here and was telling us about her finding out that her mother was a drug addict and how it just left her…left her with a lot of hurt. And Desiree I just want to pray for you sweet sister right now. And thank you for calling in. It was such a blessing to hear from you sweetie. Lord Jesus we…we come to you in prayer for our…or dear sister Desiree. And Lord I just ask You Lord to bring healing to her heart. Help her to know how much You love her oh Lord. Help her to…to experience or great love and healing and acceptance and…and…and how she's very dear and precious to You a Lord. And thank You Lord that…that she called in so we could pray. And just please please please Lord bring healing to this family, bring healing to help her mom to find the healing that she needs as well and the help that she needs and help her to…to be reunited with her daughter and to not blame her in any way for what she's done and…and thank You Lord in Jesus’ name. Amen. Desiree have a…have a good day sweetie and…and just know that a lot of…an awful lot of us are praying for you. Probably as many as thousands are praying for you right now. A lot of 'em won't call in but they're praying for you sweetie. OK. Bye bye.

Hello DAB family this has been an amazing amazing journey these last couple months. My devotional life last year I…I decided to get more focused on…in the word and this last year has been even though with Covid and everything has been a struggle. I've grown a lot. And finding this app through a YouTuber I've been really excited to finally have a daily plan that I've been listening to. So, that has been awesome. The reason why I'm on here now is…and by the way…my name is Andrew. I am from Regina Saskatchewan Canada but the reason I'm phoning is because of this lady that…that sent a message about being hurt by the Christian community and…and her being engaged and her thinking that there's gotta be something bad that's gonna happen and she asked for prayer for peace. So, I just want to pray right now for her. Dear heavenly Father I just thank You so much for Your love and who You are and for the gifts that You give us. And God sometimes in our human nature we under…we don't understand sometimes why You give us good gifts. God, I understand that it…it may not feel real. And I just pray that this lady who didn’t give her name but You know who she is God, that You would just give her that peace, give her that confidence that You are a Father who wants to give us good gifts. And I pray that for the continual healing in her heart for…for being in involved in the Christian community. And I pray that that that would just be a blessing to her and give her peace in those areas and healing and enjoy this engagement that she's that she has. So, I pray You just bless her and give her strength. I pray all these things in Jesus’ name.

Hi good morning this is John Allen from Orlando FL. This is a first-time caller. I want to thank all of you Daily Bible Audio family for all your prayer requests that you have requested. I want to stand in the middle and say a prayer for all of you. Father God I thank You for all my brothers and sisters who have called in seeking You. Lord You've heard their petitions. We come before Your throne of grace Lord praising You, glorifying You. Glory be to Your name Lord. Glory be to You in the highest. Father You see everything, and You know everything. I come before You believing in faith that You will walk on water for everyone who called out to You requesting a prayer. I thank You Jesus for this platform that we can all reach out to one another encouraging one another. I thank You for Brian and his family for creating this this daily prayers and daily readings. Thank You, Jesus for Your grace that never ends. Father God cover every single brother and sister who has called in with Your blood protection Lord from this COVID-19. Father comfort the people that are not able to see that are going through all difficulties on their own Father God. Thank You, Jesus. Come through for us Father God. We seek You we look for You Lord. We put our eyes on You. Glory be to Your name Lord the name that is above all names. Father thank You for what You are doing in this group. Thank You for Your grace that never ends Lord. Thank You for the small victories that You've given us this month Father God. Thank You, Jesus for who You are Lord. Thank You, Lord my God. We honor You we glorify You we put our eyes on You. Thank You Lord. Thank You in Jesus mighty powerful name I pray the covering of Jesus blood over every single brother and sister who called in in Jesus’ name. Amen. Blessings.

Hello everybody this is God's grace for Japan and I just heard…I'm a little behind…and I just heard the January 29th broadcast with a new sister joining us at the end of the broadcast who just got engaged. And first of all, congratulations. I've been married since 2014 and the reason I'm bringing that up is because I wanted you to know that I too came into my engagement from a season of almost a decade of heartbreak and pain in which I…I…I think I just didn't really believe that the good thing could happen. And, so, that plus I also related very much to what you're talking about the inability to connect with a Christian community which I also had experienced some spiritual abuse within Christian communities, and I mean I think more than one of us can attest to that we…our other brothers and sisters do not always love us or care for us or behave towards us as I think that our Messiah would prefer but that aside I hope you find healing here. And also, I want to encourage you as you enter this journey…and yes…I know it's terrifying, it's terrifying to start something good or for something good to come into your life when everything around you is saying, “no but good things don't happen to me.” And I…I had way too many days, years, months of…of wrestling with that almost and anxiety in the early days of my marriage. And I still have all sorts of anxiety about “when's the other shoe gonna drop? When is the terrible thing gonna happen?” And I want to courage you, rest in the good thing that God gives you too. He gives us blessings. Yes, this life id full of trouble and I know nothing lasts forever on this side of heaven but enjoy the blessings He gives you. I will be praying for you sister. And if you have a need just call us up. Love you. Bye.

[1stunseeliefaelass]

Pic number 2 yaaaaaay! I'm weird.

Mini Stories - Heart of Snow

Ale was sitting within her garden behind her home. In her hands, she held a carved flute, shaped like a wolf. Her fingers traced over the carved runes and greater design details. Eventually she began to play the flute a bit unsurely, having never played one before. Little did she know about the surprise visit from her son. The notes being too high pitched for her to have heard him for once. Death certainly heard her playing of the flute though. Cringing before quickly composing himself he hurried out to see what Ale was doing. Naturally she jumped as he touched her shoulder.

"Aah ah! Oh....Oooh goodness...Atan you startled me."

"I noticed, sorry Ceise. But I just had to stop whatever that noise was." Death admitted in a joking tone.

Ale smacked him lightly after she stood up, "Oh hush, as if I couldn't figure it out."

"I'm just teasing, I know you're trying Ceise. Even so, those notes were sharp enough to shatter glass." He told her with a chuckle before muttering, "And maybe a few eardrums."

"What was that?" Ale quickly asked, the vines around her wrists prepping themselves behind Death's head.

"Nevermind." Death said before getting smacked on the back of the head by one of the vines.

"Uh huh sure."

Death groaned, "Again I'm joking. You know me Mother, I'm sarcastic by default."

Ale shook her head in skepticism as she brushed by the living room table. A piece of parchment then flew from off the table, only for Death to quickly catch it. He took a brief glance at it in curiosity before deciding it probably wasn't his business anyway. He then placed it down on the table where it had been as Ale put away the flute for the time being.

Death kinda felt bad so he spoke up, "I really was just joking."

"I know you were, just putting the flute away for now."

"It wouldn't have anything to do with me would it?" Death inquired a bit nervously rubbing his neck.

"Oh no. Just figure you're visiting for more than joking around."

"I actually came by to ask for another cloak for War. Torn up overtime as per usual." Death explained.

"Ah, well you needn't worry about that. I actually suspected he'd need another soon. I'll go fetch it."

Death sat back in a chair as she walked upstairs, waiting patiently. He wondered to himself for a bit before the door was knocked upon. Ale hollered for Death to answer it, so he went to do so. Opening the door he was met with a sight that nearly made him jump. A male Lepus much taller than both him and Ale, and pale as the snow of his mountain home. His entire body covered in various cybernetics, including his blood red eyes. His pupils working like a camera apeture as he blinked normally. A truly unnatural and uncanny sight to behold for anyone who didn't know him. And for those who did know him, like Death, he was just offputting in general. The man ducked his head down as he entered, being too tall for the doorway otherwise. At least the rest of the house still fit his stature. Slowly Death closed the door and finally greeted the guest, "Gran Ceiser."

"Gran Atan. Where is your Ceise by chance?" The man answered him in a cold, almost emotionless tone. His Russian accent not helping matters.

"She's upstairs, and should be down shortly. Although, what brings you this far from Russia? Aside from visiting?" Death inquired trying to hide the tension he felt whilst gazing at the near robot of a man.

"Nothing beyond visiting for once." He responded before glancing at the parchment on the table. Though he did not disturb it, his eyes narrowed with a camera like click as he groaned softly, "And perhaps a...discussion or two."

"All in due time...Llildan." Ale responded halfway down the steps.

Llildan's eyes widened with another click as she handed the finished cloak off to Death. Death in turn asked her, "Should I perhaps come another time?"

Llildan raised one his metallic hands in a subtle dismissal, "I believe you can handle a family discussion boy. You're an adult are you not?"

Death couldn't help but feel a slight intimidation from him as he replied, "Maybe so, but I've seen how your 'discussions' can get."

"Hmph. Then leave us to speak alone if you so wish. I'm sure your Ceise can handle herself just as she always has." Llildan expressed nonchalantly.

Death felt the guilt punch him in the gut, alongside an urge to bolt. While Llildan was never violent towards family, or even abusive, Death was still a bit unsure. He looked to Ale, who nodded to him, "I'll be fine Atan, I always am. You know it never goes too far."

"Too far can mean many things to a Russian, but so be it Ceise." Death told her before leaving the house. He was very much relieved to be avoiding another argument, having sensed the tension as easily as one burns themselves on an open flame. Part of him wanted to leave the village and return another time, but he ultimately chose to instead head to it's outskirts. Wherein his cabin that Ale had built for him was. Once inside it he took the time to settle down, reading to try and get his mind of the matter.

Meanwhile Llildan inquired of Ale, "Getting more letters from him I see?"

"Of course I am, I adore each one he sends. What of them?"

"I still do not like him." Llildan responded simply.

"Only because he doesn't tolerate your bullying of him, and that he can escape your wrath with ease."

Llildan's left ear perked a bit while his right ear, or the half of it that remained jerked slightly, "Yes it is quite FRUSTRATING that the little cyka always escapes me. But I do not bully him so much as I test him."

"TEST HIM? You call insulting him a test? Arguing with me in front of him a test?!" Ale asked offended.

Llildan raised his hand again, "Enough Ale."

"No Father, I won't stand for it. Leave Erik alone already. Sure he's not seen me and I've not seen him in.......a very...long time. But I still care for him, and he cares for me. Just read the letter he sent!"

Llildan only shook his head, "I have Ale, and I fear they may not be coming from him."

"What do you know?! YOU STOPPED KNOWING HOW TO LOVE WHEN CEISE DIED! AFTER YOU TURNED THAT OFF IN YOUR HEAD!" Ale shouted at him in anger.

Llildan's entire body clicked and creaked as he shook with rage, "It is YOU who knows nothing child! Losing your Mother DESTROYED ME! I DIED WHEN SHE DID!"

Ale jumped a bit but held her ground, "Mother's death helped yes, but it wasn't what destroyed you. You did that to yourself."

Llildan and Ale only continued arguing from there, going from English to Russian in the process. It only finally ended with a slammed door and Ale sitting down in emotional exhaustion. Only then did Death finally decide to return, even if he wasn't sure if Llildan was still there. Luckily for him, his Grandfather had left already. Death chose to sit beside his Mother to help comfort her. Knowing Llildan and her fight pretty hard with each other, and even that was an understatement in Death's mind. He could only hope that eventually his Mother and Grandfather would eventually see eye to eye on more than just the bare minimum.

[beans-shadow]

looking for the truth (pt 12)

Fandom: Naruto

Relationship: Kakasaku

Characters: Hatake Kakashi, Haruno Sakura

read on ao3: here

part one / two / three / four / five / six / seven / eight / nine / ten / eleven / twelve / thirteen

Sakura and Kakashi finally make it back to the village. But were they quick enough?

--

After their post-self-apology embrace, Sakura had seemed to snap back into full-ninja mode, remembering their ever-shortening time pressure. She brushed the leaves off of her outfit, and nodded.

“We have to get back. Let’s continue.” Without celebration, she picked up her backpack, and zipped into the trees.

Finding renewed energy after that previous ordeal, Kakashi ran aside Sakura as they had made their way home. Mind finally clear for what felt like the first time in forever, he’d felt like a new man. Sakura’s obvious rejection from earlier hurt him, but it did not counterbalance the freedom and ease he found in his renewed heart.

It only took another hour or so before the foliage separated, revealing the outline of Konoha. Kakashi started to take the lead, turning them towards the great entrance ready to confront Kotetsu and Izumo into letting them in with haste. Sakura grabbed his shoulder, shaking her head. Being the Hokage’s student for so long had given her insights unbeknownst to Jonin even of Kakashi’s stature – which apparently included secret passageways in and out of the Hokage’s tower. Kakashi always knew they existed, and presumed Tsunade used them to get away from her stacks of paperwork in favor of a glass of sake. Seeing them, however, was a revelation.

Unfortunately, time did not allow him to explore, as Sakura skipped up the stairs to open a trapdoor that led them directly into Tsunade’s quarters. Without help, she leapt up and hefted herself into the room. Scrambling after her, Kakashi could hear a conversation suddenly stop as surprise overstepped whatever the topic previously being discussed. Breathing heavily, the entire journey catching up to Kakashi, Kakashi rested with his hands on his knees. Sakura stood at attention by Tsunade’s desk, back straight, all business. Getting an awareness of his surroundings, Kakashi saw Shikamaru looking astounded at the pair, the first time Kakashi had ever seen something remotely like shock on the Nara clan head’s face. A scroll in his hands, he obviously had been going through some important business.

Tsunade’s wide eyes, on the other hand, quickly recovered. Shifting her gaze from her student to Kakashi, she quipped, “Sakura, what in the world did you do to my Copy Ninja, to make him breathless?” Standing from her seat, she circled around her desk to sit on the edge, crossing her arms. “Furthermore, what is the world do you think warrants using my secret tunnels, interrupting my private meeting with Shikamaru?”

Shivers flew down Kakashi’s spine, prompting him to stand straight along with Sakura. The Hokage’s tone affected him immensely, but clearly Sakura was used to it by now, or she’d grew accustomed to it enough to hide any infliction she might have from her master.

Eyeing Shikamaru without a care, Sakura stepped up to cut him off completely. “I assume you’ve been made aware of the soil sample I had Ino analyze,” she began.

Tilting slightly, Tsunade looked at Shikamaru over Sakura’s shoulder. “The what?”

Whirling around, Sakura’s hair flared. Kakashi kept his face neutral, knowing he would not want to be on the other end of her fury, given the situation.

Although a good foot shorter than the shadow master, Sakura drew closer to Shikamaru, forcing him back against the wall. “You didn’t tell her?” She growled. Shaking his head, Shikamaru fumbled.

“No, no, not yet. I mean, was all purely circumstantial,” he said. “We wanted to wait for something more concrete.”

Spinning again, Sakura turned back to Tsunade. “Well, here’s something concrete: we were told by the Daimyo himself our data is substantiated. We need to act now; we don’t know how badly we’re already infected.”

“Infected? Data? Someone, explain,” Tsunade commanded, making her way around her desk again to sit at her chair expectantly.

Sakura, gesturing wildly, started going through all the events she and Kakashi had uncovered while in the Land of Mountain Streams. When necessary, Kakashi chimed in to agree and supplement Sakura’s account. After just a few minutes, as Tsunade drew her clasped hands closer and closer to her face, she smacked her hands on the desk.

“Enough.” She stood, assertive. “I’ve heard enough.” She sank deep into her seat, hands now on her forehead. “This is awful. What do I do? Separate families? That will cause a panic. I can’t just raid homes.” Shifting, Tsunade made a move to look down from her window at the village that was entrusted to her be under her protection.

“If we can’t trust our loved ones, who can we trust?” She asked no one in particular.

The weight of the question fell on Kakashi. He’d been mentally preparing for the imminent battles between clans, between villages. But the emotional devastation hadn’t crossed his mind, and now he saw just how much worse that would be.

Shaking her head, Tsunade gathered her powerful stance. Turning around, she barked orders. “Shikamaru, go let Kotetsu and Izumo know they need to secure the gates and borders. I presume an attack is approaching us as we speak. Get Gai and his team to scout and figure out exactly what the situation is out there.” She turned to Sakura. “Sakura, get Ino and Shizune and start prepping the hospital for a cleanse. We need to start research for an antidote now. Time is of the essence.”

Eyes darkening, she finally turned to Kakashi. “And you, mister, have exhausted your chakra supply one too many times. Take him with you, Sakura,” Tsunade ordered with a flick of her wrist, acting as if Kakashi were only a bothersome fly zooming around her face. “He’ll be of no use to this village in his current state.”

Protesting, Kakashi took one step forward. “Tsunade-san, that’s not true –” He was immediately silenced by a hand in the air.

“I won’t hear any of it. It wastes your breath, and our precious time. See to it, and I’ll have more instructions later.” 

Thinning his lips, Kakashi bowed reluctantly along with the other ninjas in the room. Feet lightly tapping on the wooden floor, the three Jonin shuffled out of the small room. Shikamaru disappeared quickly using the flicker technique, and Kakashi made a move to peel off from Sakura as well, but she got a hold of his arm before he could escape her clutches that would lead him to the horrid affair that was his relationship with the hospital.

“Oh, no you don’t, you’re coming with me.”

“Wait, Sakura, no—”

His words got swept up in her own flicker technique, leaving his vocals behind in the Hokage’s tower as his body lurched in the direction of his nightmare. Of course, Sakura had made sure he had no hopes of escape: she’d led them straight to his reserved hospital room, as he frequented the ward so often.

“Alright, let’s call a nurse and get you settled quickly,” Sakura said, running around the room for his chart on the wall. She flipped through it and made a few notes. Kakashi peered over her shoulder, trying to get a glimpse of what she was writing, but Sakura tucked the clipboard to her chest. “Doctor’s eyes only!” She exclaimed. She pushed him into the cot. “You, in bed.”

Kakashi put his hands in the air, surrendering. Deciding to play coy, he asked, “Shouldn’t I change into my hospital gown?”

Sakura’s face paled, her cheeks then turning bright red. “Oh, yeah. Well, maybe just wait until the nurse gets here.”

Tilting his head as he sat on the bed, Kakashi asked, “Didn’t you say you were in a hurry?”

Now Sakura looked flustered. “Well, yes, but…”

“I’ll change in the restroom,” Kakashi decided.

Head down, he banished himself into the bathroom. Pulling off his smelly clothes, full of days of sweat, Kakashi gagged and contemplated. This was his first one-on-one time with Sakura since… since he’d tried kissing her. Before he’d gotten swept up in her urgency, but now it truly hit him now: her avoidance of his affection. After he’d opened up to her, letting his fears and guilt out. Not as if she owed him anything for that; he’d just thought they’d been growing close. Closer than he’d ever felt with anyone else.

She might not think of him in the exact same way, but Kakashi knew they were still more than simple friends. He could still trust her. He needed to talk to her, get his feelings out, so he could move on.

After he finished changing, Kakashi left the bathroom and crawled obediently into his bed. Sakura was still scribbling in his chart, eyebrows furrowed in cute concentration. Despite the situation that sat at their door, Kakashi still wanted to appreciate her hard-working spirit and brilliant mind.

“Sakura,” he began.

Startled, she looked up from her work. A bright smirk spread across her face. “What is this? I’ve never seen you get in bed without a few minutes of persuasion.”

Mussing with the wrinkles in the blankets, Kakashi murmured. “Yes, well. Times have changed, I’ve changed… because of you.”

Now it was Sakura’s turn to tilt her head. “Come again?”

“You’ve changed me. I thanked you before for letting me open to you. Now, I want to thank you for changing me into someone I like more.”

Fondness gleamed in Sakura’s bright eyes, and Kakashi’s heart ached. If only that fondness extended slightly more to how he felt. “Of course, Kakashi,” she said, voice velvet. “That person was always there. Everyone could see it; I could see it. It was just a matter of making you see it.”

Kakashi shook his head, not sure as to why. There was no clear way in his mind to transition the conversation to what he wanted to touch upon, so he decided bluntness would be the best tactic. “Sakura, after I… wept, right before we hugged…”

He heard Sakura take a quick intake of breath. That sign alone, and he knew she was aware what he was talking about. “Yes?”

“You know how I… leaned in…” Kami, this was awkward. Typically a smooth talker, now Kakashi finding it even difficult to quickly string together a sentence.

Contrary to his desire for honesty, Sakura feigned ignorance. “Leaned in? What do you mean?”

Her avoidance triggered some anger in Kakashi, and he found it within himself to face the root of the issue.

“I was trying to kiss you,” he said quickly. “And I’m sorry.”

Sakura seemed taken back by surprise. “Sorry?”

Nodding, Kakashi looked to the chair by the bedside which held up his sad, deposited clothes. “Yes, sorry, because you felt the need to dodge it. I did not mean to put you in an uncomfortable position. Please know I still cherish what we built over this mission, so I won’t ever try again. I just wanted to get it out in the open so we can move on.”

“Oh.”

“Oh?” Kakashi repeated, a small smile of bemusement on his face. The pink-haired medic, usually with so much to say, only could vocalize one word.

Kakashi thought too soon, because Sakura shook her head. “No, not ‘oh.’ I…” Sakura looked to the window, biting her bottom lip. Closing her eyes and taking one deep breath, she walked over to Kakashi’s bed, sitting by his side and taking his hand.

“That’s not true,” she whispered. Kakashi’s breath stopped. He did not want any movements, noises, or distractions from what he was about to hear.

“Well I mean, I did dodge it,” Sakura corrected. “But not for the reason you think.” She closed her eyes again, and now Kakashi put a comforting hand over her own. Her hand loosened in his own, and her chest expanded.

“Kakashi, I –”

The door opened and a nurse stepped in, a forehead glistening with the first signs of perspiration. Sakura’s impatience with slow-minded people also extended to their physical speed, a trait that spread through the wing like wildfire when she first took over the hospital.

“Dr. Haruno, I’m here,” the nurse said, stating the obvious. Wide-eyed and scared, the nurse gulped audibly as he took in the intimate moment the head doctor was in the middle of. Sakura looked spooked, and Kakashi never wanted to commit murder more. “Oh, Doctor, I’m sorry, I –”

Standing quickly, Sakura brushed off her clothes, leaving Kakashi’s hand empty, and her former spot cold. “No, that’s quite alright. Did you bring me my coat?”

Nodding, the nurse wordlessly handed the white jacket. In one swift moment that brushed Sakura’s scent over Kakashi, she dressed her part and became Head Doctor Haruno. “Here’s his chart,” she handed his papers to the nurse. “There’s not much to do besides the usual when it comes to this trouble maker,” she said playfully, avoiding Kakashi’s longing stare. “I need to go and start researching a way to combat this destructive disease at once.”

“Of course,” the nurse bowed, moving to Kakahsi’s side. He didn’t know this man, this medic. As if he would listen to anyone but Sakura. And now she was leaving him, at his most vulnerable, in the place he most despised.

“Sakura, please, wait,” Kakashi called, rising in his bed. The nurse, beefier than expected, shoved him back down on the cot into the pillows, shaking his head.

Body half-through the door, Kakashi watched as Sakura’s hand held all the tension in her body, not releasing her, not allowing herself to leave his room.

Sorrowful for a reason unbeknownst to Kakashi, Sakura peered in one last time and gave him a small smile. “Get some rest, Kakashi.” And then she was gone.

“Sleep, now, Hatake,” the nurse said, voice distant. The sensation of chakra infused with the feeling of sleepiness sank into his body, and Kakashi was forced into a state of unconsciousness.

---

How different this sleep was from that blessed night of tranquility besides Sakura in the tasteful in back in the Land of Mountain Streams. At peace with himself, besides someone he trusted, he’d been able to doze off with ease. Here, in the hospital, he fought the drowsiness that tugged at his body at every extremity possible. The urge to get up, contribute to his society instead of sleeping the days away that he could not fulfil frustrated him to no end. Whatever drugs Sakura had him on were powerful, more powerful than he’d previously experienced, and there was no way around it besides waiting.

And so, he did, after days of struggle. Succumbing to the drugs, he allowed his body to heal, and replenish.

A day later, a rumble sounded from outside of the window. Lids heavy, lips chapped, and body sore from atrophy, Kakashi summoned strength to turn his head towards the source. No visual cues presented themselves to give him any more information. Groaning, Kakashi sat up right. The sounds grew louder and clearer as Kakashi’s senses connected with his brain. Shouts, grunts, cries: the rudiments of close-combat warfare. A siren from far away: the raid siren, notifying the entire village that there was an attack. Although muffled by distance, Kakashi knew his resting time was over, despite any doctor’s orders, Sakura included.

Sakura.

His heart hurt just at the thought of her name. What was she going to say before the nurse came in and stopped her train of thought? She’d confused him immensely. Yes, she did dodge his advances, but no, not in the way he thought? What other way could that be?

Kakashi shook his head violently, giving him a slight headache. Holding his head, he grunted. This was not the time nor place to contemplate Sakura’s puzzling mind. Action was needed.

After his chakra supply joyously resounded in his body, full again, Kakashi summoned Pakkun on his bed.

The dog appeared on the sheets, mouth full of scroll. Wary, Pakkun sat by Kakashi’s feet, depositing the scroll in between his paws.

“Boss,” he greeted Kakashi, bowing his small head.

“Don’t ‘boss’ me,” Kakashi said, shifting his head in agitated imitation. “What’s going on?”

Pakkun shifted his paws before answering. “Nothing you need to concern yourself with,” he decided to say.

“Really?” Kakashi did not believe him for a second. In a quick motion, he grabbed the scroll by Pakkun, lifting it in the air where the dog could not reach. “Let me see for myself, then. What’s in this scroll?”

The pug scrambled up Kakashi’s chest to no avail. “No, Young Hatake! That’s not for your eyes! It’s from the Hokage herself.”

“Working with the Hokage without me, I see,” Kakashi said, saddened. Relenting, the pug stopped fighting to climb up his human and sat, dejected, to the side. With rigor, Kakashi tore open the scroll and read the message.

Need more reinforcement by the southeast tower. Send three more Jonin teams from the trees, the two by the tunnels. Up to 20% contamination in the village. No antidote has been made yet, no update from Sakura. Assume a week longer of assault before progress is made. Prepare evacuation of children, separated from their mothers.

“What?” Kakashi breathed. The situation in his head did not compare to reality. It was much more dire. Rolling the message back up, he tossed the paper to Pakkun. “Here. Continue on. I’ll be there too.”

“Boss, are you sure you’re okay?”

“It doesn’t matter. If I’m okay, and we lose,” Kakashi argued, “I’ll have the same result as if I were not okay. Might as well contribute and fight.”

“I’m not sure I follow that logic…” Pakkun said, eyes questioning.

Ignoring the complaint, Kakashi pulled his sheets off and tore the stupid nightgown he wore. Fortunately, some nurse had been gracious enough to spring for an outfit cleaning, and his clothes were nice and folded by his nightstand.

Fully dressed, Kakashi turned to see Pakkun still waiting expectantly, standing as if he wanted to say something.

“Yes?” Kakashi prompted.

“Boss, I…” Pakkun trailed. “Please be careful.” He nodded, and poofed away.

Smiling, Kakashi sent the same prayer to his trusted companion. Taking one breath to gather himself, Kakashi pulled his hands to his chest, motioned, and flickered away to the base of south east tower.

---

As he appeared on the battlefield, the noise that had been dampened before blasted in Kakashi’s ears. Disoriented for a split second, Kakashi quickly took in the ground view of the fights.

Blends of Leaf shinobi faced off other ninja who hailed from many different villages. From flashes of headbands, Kakashi made out Mist Village ninja, Stone Ninja, Waterfall Ninja, Snow Ninja… a pattern of Water-associated villages and lands stuck out. Guess they were more loyal to each other thank Kakashi thought… or they all simply took the chance to strike Konoha when at its weakest.

Catapults of blazing stone flew from the walls of the village, crashing down all around the field, shaking the earth beneath Kakashi’s feet. Different ninjutsu techniques also morphed the scene around him. Spikes of dirt, masses of plant life, flooding fields, and pillars of fire all roared around him. The siren still blasted in the village, a constant reminder that civilian lives were being torn apart.

Keeping quiet, Kakashi prepared his chakra, then threw himself into the nearest fight. A Chunin he did not recognize struggled with an experienced ninja from the Mist Village. Only using taijutsu, Kakashi spun and kicked the ninja square in the chest, sending him far away. His fellow ninja breathed out, relieved. Giving Kakashi a nod, she sprinted away to find a more suitable opponent.

The Mist ninja leapt back into the air, wiping blood from his lips. Growling, he grazed his eyes over Kakashi’s.

“The infamous Copy Ninja,” he glowered. “Let’s see how that title lives up now that you don’t have a Sharingan!” He threw four shiruken at Kakashi, who easily dodged the attack. Kakashi assumed it would be a distraction, but it seemed Mist ninja lacked the cleverness even Leaf Genin had. Flipping in the air, Kakashi remembered the pressure points Sakura had used on their way to the Mountain Stream Village. With a one-two punch, the man lay on the group, indisposed.

“Hmph.” Kakashi kicked him lightly in the side, and bounded off to his next victim.

It took Kakashi five more opponents before he saw someone he knew.

“Haha! Take that! You are no match for the power of youth!” The boisterous laugh flew over the battle field. The man had not even opened a single gate. All he wielded were his nunchaku and green jumpsuit, yet we sent waves of fright wherever he next lay his eyes.

“Gai!” Kakashi shouted as he made his way to his friend, punching a few ninjas. 

The man turned, a huge smile plastered across his face. “My rival! I am glad you have finally made it onto the battle field. I’ve already defeated a few dozen of these bothersome folk who call themselves shinobi. Care to try and beat me?” He swept low, tripping a whole group of ninjas around him, before reaching Kakashi. Back to back, they postured, fists up.

“I’ll take that bet,” Kakashi said. “I’ve been on the battle field for about twenty minutes and I’m already up to six.”

“I would not expect anything else from my rival!” Gai bellowed. “How admirable!”

Rolling his eyes, Kakashi withheld laughter. “Any updates for me? I’m pretty much in the dark right now.”

Gai’s dazzling radiance dimmed. “It’s not good, Kakashi,” he said, voice low. “The first stages of the infection were impossible to track, so we tallied about eleven domestic fatalities before we could separate families. Sakura developed a way to test for the bacteria, but it’s not one hundred percent accurate.” He paused to punch a woman away. “Morality is low. People fight in the streets, across the entire village, even as Lady Tsunade orders separation of families’ along with an evacuation.”

“I did read a message saying there’s no antidote yet,” Kakashi said, using a lightning technique to fry a few Stone ninja.

He felt Gai nod behind him. “That is true. But Shizune and Sakura figured out a way to subdue patients to the point they don’t attack anyone they love on sight. But given the fact almost the entire village is surrounded, and we have infighting to handle, there are too many battle fronts to cover. Tactically, we are at a significant disadvantage.”

“We’ll just have to hold on for as long as possible,” Kakashi decided. “C’mon. I bet I can wrack up a few dozen before the sun sets.”

“Haha! We shall see, my rival! Gate one, the Gate of Opening! Gate two, the Gate of Healing, open!” A blast of energy flew by Kakashi. “Let us fight, dishonorable opponents!”

Although Kakashi took Gai’s challenge seriously, they pair ended up working together. It was endless. So many villages held grudges against the Leaf, and Kakashi was sick and tired of it. They were obviously stronger, of course they would be jealous. Instead of being jealous, he thought maybe they should focus on making themselves just as skilled or powerful. Then again, they also lacked the intellect of the Leaf.

Afternoon turned to dusk, and then only the stars and fire lit up the battle field as the ninja continued the assault. Konoha’s numbers kept up. It took more than a few days of fighting to tire noble leaf ninja out. And with Kakashi’s renewed chakra, he knew he could keep up.

A few days became five days. Five days turned into a week. More and more dark green flak jackets littered the floor around Kakashi’s feet. More and more still faces sparked memories. Medical ninjas worked as fast as they could, running around with stretchers and test kits. Konoha was hit twice: with the human opponent, and the microscopic opponent. Leaf ninja were forced to stand down, relenting to be taken to the hospital for treatment, in fear of starting to fight against their own army.

Gai, to make up for the shrinking fighting force, opened three more gates. Even with his youthful spirit, the toll of the technique was starting to catch up to him. Kakashi was tiring yet again. At every moment, he worried he too would get infected, and be taken to back to his bed in the village. Word got out the bacteria was blood borne, sparking fear every time he received a cut from a reused weapon.

Finally, a day later, word came that an antidote was in the works. Relief boosted the effort of leaf shinobi, and finally a shout of retreat permeated across the field. Just ten minutes later, every ninja that did not honor the Leaf symbol departed.

Hands bloody, clothes torn, Kaksahi held his last kunai with white knuckles. Many yards away, he saw Gai’s aggressive red figure scan the area for more enemies. And then he fell.

Rushing to his friend’s side, Kakashi cradled Gai’s head. “Hey. Hey. It’s over. We won.” Gai grimaced, and Kakashi felt Gai’s brittle bones shudder against the torn muscles of his comrade.

“Yes, yes we did,” Gai breathed. His eyes closed.

“Hang on!” Holding his friend bridal style, Kakashi sprinted back to the hospital.

[deripmaver]

Poisoned lab rat given as a gift 😈

LOL you really wanted to give me a challenge didnt you :P i hope i included all of these to your satisfaction!

Victuuri, ~2000 words

Content warnings, esp related to the lab rat prompt: Mentions of torture, mentions of harm to both children & animals, just generally violent imagery and content, major character injury

Theavianis beautiful, like something out of a fantasy. His hair is a long,luscious raven-black, his eyes shimmering like amber. Hiswings are a rich mahogany brown, speckled with golden flecks, softdown feathers clusteredaround his back. His hands,curled into padded claws, hang limply by his sides.

Theseller, a slimy fellow by the name of Schlenk, caresses his cheekdelicately. The color is pallid, sallow – even his beauty can’thide the hue of sickness lingering in the avian’s slumped posture,his limp wings.

“Imust say,” Victor Nikiforov murmurs, lips curled into a hint of asneer, “If this is your normal quality  of product, I’m notimpressed.”

Theavian twitches, just a little, at the sound of Victor’s voice, buthe stays staring at his shiny black shoes, freshly polished.

Schlenk’shands, slick with sweat, small and fat with pockets of skin bulgingover too-tight golden rings, clench and unclench, betraying hisnervousness. He licks his thin lips, speaking with a harsh accent.

“Allimperfections can be fixed postmortem,” he says, swallowing. “Iassure you, his body will be of the utmost importance. I’mimagining… His body segmented, used to advance science on humans.His muscles, definitely, plastinated and propped up in a display forour students to study – his bones, so light, split in two to showthe hollow pouches that help him fly. Hiswings – you won’t find a specimen with such rich coloring. Don’tmind the breaks, though, they’ve healed over – we wanted to seeif both were necessary for flight.”

Theavian’s breath hitches, but Schlenk continues on, “Of course, theskin is imperfect.” He grabs one of the avian’s arms, ignoringhis low whimper, and turns out the crook of his elbow. “Thisspecimen was most useful in epidemiology tests. And,”he crouches down, lip curled in displeasure, and snaps on a latexglove, as though the thought of touching the creature wasdistasteful. He opens one of the avian’s eyes wide, proddingindelicately at the bloodshot edge of it, “I’m afraid he didn’trespond very well to being injected with a live specimen of creepingblindness. You see-”

“Ishe blind?” Victor cuts him off, sinking to his knees before theavian. Their eyes meet for the first time, and the creature makes alow, keening noise.

“Shutup,” Schlenk snaps, kicking him in the ribs. The avian’s breathleaves him in a sharp oof,and he shudders and slumps forward, and Victor’s face goes very,very blank. Schlenk turns to Victor, dabbing at his sweaty brow withhis gloved hands. “Ah, no, of course not. Well, just a little, inthe one eye, but that too might be useful on display…”

“Tellme,” Victor murmurs, standing again, hands running deceptivelygently through the avian’s black hair, “How does one go frombeing a top researcher at one of the finest biological facilities inEurope to selling a highly valuable research specimen to the mob?”

“Ah,well,” Schlenk stammers, licking his lips again, “Times are hard,f-funding is tough right now, I have mouths to feed-”

“You’redivorced,” Victor cuts him off, sharply. “Your wife left youbecause you beat her and your children.” He taps his lips, smilingsoftly. “I think not. Perhaps your penchant for sadism cost you avaluable research position? To many live vivisections on mice, onchimpanzees, on your humanoid specimens?”

Schlenkswallows, “They’re just animals, I got so much useful data-”

Victorbarrels on, “So you joined a different organization, one thatspecialized in avians, one outside the realm of international law.But they needed your work to have a purpose,cruel as it was, and you just wanted to tear things apart. So youagreed to meet with me, to take one of their dying specimens and sellit, so you could set up a lab of your own. I know your type.”

Heinches ever closer to Schlenk, who sweats profusely, now, shaking asVictor’s large stature looms over him. Victor takes one of his ownhands, gloved, silk, and cups Schlenk’s face.

“Ishe microchipped?” Victor murmurs.

“Y-yes,”Schlenk stammers. “But it’s easy to remove. It may damage thearm, but he’ll be dead soon anyway-”

“Isthe microchip a selenium oxide?” Victor says, voice soft as it issharp, hungry.

Schlenkblinks. “Of – of course. The standard issue ones could betracked, so I replaced – urk!”

Victor’sgloved hands close around his throat, sharp nails digging in to thesoft flesh.

“Thankyou for the gift,” he whispers. “Though I can only hope we’vegotten to him before the poison’staken over completely.”

“Gift?”Schlenk chokes, “But, you said you had the money, you showed it tome-”

Victordrops him, and he sinks to his knees beside the shivering avian.Victor reaches down, eyes softening as he stares at the pale, sallowface, the dull eyes. He takes off a silken glove, revealing clawed,curved talons, and runs his hand gently along the avian’s softcheeks.

“Hello,Yuuri,” he murmurs, eyes crinkling with sadness. “Do you rememberme?”

Schlenkshrieks, scrambling to his feet. “You,” he gasps, “You’re oneof them, you’re him,the one who’s been k-killingpeople-”

Hereaches for his belt, desperately, and lets out a low whimper when heremembers giving his gun to a guard at the beginning of theirmeeting-

“Mila,”Victor says, eyes not leaving Yuuri’s, “Georgi. Kill him.”

There’sthe sound of swooping, beating wings, a long, drawn out shriek, andthen nothing.

They were running.Too afraid to fly, knowing they’d be seen, Yuuri and Victor ran,hand in hand, down curving mountain slopes and through thickets oftrees. Their breath made clouds in the freezing winter air, the lightshirt and pants allowed to them barely enough to keep the wind frombiting through to their bodies.

They’d escaped.Together, they’d escaped, after years and years of experiments andtorture, forced to run through mazes again and again, suffer throughelectric shocks, sit in freezing, icy cold until their fingers andtoes and wings turned numb and stiff and painful – no one to wipethe tears from their little faces in the dead of night as theypleaded with the dark for it to end.

Just the two of them,clinging to each other, weeping when they were ripped apart forseparate experiments, weeping when they were tortured together, thescientists wanting to see who could run faster, who could fly longer,their legs chained to the wall to prevent them from escaping.

No one spoke to them,and yet they learned to speak. They practiced with each other,sounding the words out again and again, recreating the symbols thatmade up the signs in the facility. Hazard.Electricity. Safety glasses required.

Their hair flutteredbehind them, Victor’s white and Yuuri’s black, Yuuri’s brownwings and Victor’s pale yellow. In the first town they found, theyhuddled beneath their wings for warmth, they snuck food from a trashbin outside a food market. Not wanting to stay in the same place fortoo long, they hid out in the hay bales of a barn for the night,listening to the wind whistle through the drafty slats.

All in all, theirescape lasted a week. A week of blessed freedom, of feet hurting frommoving not from being shocked and frozen and burned, of gorgingthemselves on foods they’d never experienced before – sweetbreads, cheeses, cured meats accidentally left out or taken fromstores. In the garbage was a half eaten box of something brown andsweet-smelling, and each tried a piece, interested.

Yuuri’s eyes lit upwith wonder at the treat in his mouth, crunchy and chewy and sweet atthe same time. His tongue had never experienced something so magical,and his whole body felt alight with glee from what he was eating.They scarfed down the whole pack, smearing “chocolate” all overtheir faces, and Yuuri thought he’d remember this moment forever,remember how this was the first time he’d felt truly happy in hislife.

The scientists foundthem as they got to the border of Switzerland and Austria. They triedto fly away, but they’d prepared for that, and Yuuri felt the chainwrap around his legs, felt them pull him in. He hit the ground hard,wriggling, and grasped at the chains, trying to see through the tearsin his eyes.

He couldn’t goback, not to that, please no-

Victor shrieked,sharp claws slicing through one of the men’s unprotected arm, andYuuri managed to wriggle out as blood splattered the ground, butthere were so many of them-

The man howled inpain, gripping his bloody arm, and he smacked Victor clean across theface. Victor went sprawling, and the man grabbed his hair, and Yuurihowled and ran right into him, knocking him back.

It all happened sofast, Yuuri still can’t remember it completely. One minute he andVictor were fighting the man off, the next Victor was pointing to anoncoming train, if they could just catch up to it and hop on, maybe,maybe-

And then Victor fell,pushed by a zap of electricity from the men, and the tracks were soclose, and there was blood, and an awful, animal shriek, and Yuuriscreamed in horror, not even noticing that they closed in around themand bound his entire body.

“Vitya,” Yuuriscreamed as they dragged him away, loading him up alone in the backof a truck away from the bloody mess on the tracks, “Vitya, Vitya,no, please, no, Vitya-”

He kept screamingVictor’s name, sobbing it and shrieking it again and again,breathing so fast he thought his heart might explode-

“Vitya, Vitya!”

“Yuuri.”

Yuuriblinks slowly awake, wincing at the harsh light, nose wrinkling atthe crust around his eyes. There’s the steady thrum of machinery,the beep beep beep of medical equipment. His whole body feelsheavy, sluggish, and there’s a slight sting around his right wrist,which is particularly hard to move.

“Yuuri,darling, are you awake?”

Thevoice is so soft, so tender. It rumbles, deep and soothing, strangelyfamiliar. Comforting, like a warm blanket on a cold winter evening.He’s been in so much pain all his life, new voices each a shock ofterror, not knowing what each unfamiliar voice is going to do to him.This voice, though, calms him. He doesn’t feel afraid.

Heblinks his eyes open and stares deep into a bright blue sky.

Only,it’s not the sky, it’s a pair of blue eyes that shimmer withtears, and a pale face, and short silver hair, but he’d know thatface anywhere-

“Vitya,”Yuuri croaks, voice scratchy from disuse, “Oh my god, Vitya-”

Hesurges forward, arms outstretched, and feels the stinging tug of adozen little machines. Tears well at the corners of his eyes, imagesof medical machinery in the back of his mind, the burn of injectionsand bruises upon bruises from IVs in his arms.

“Whatare you doing to me?” Yuuri whimpers, eyes blurring with tears.

“Oh,love,” Victor sighs, soothingly, hand splaying gently over Yuuri’schest. “I know you’re scared, but I’m healing you. The chipthey had in, it was poisonous, so we’re helping your body out asyou recover. Are you in pain anywhere?”

Yuurisniffles blearily, focusing in on his body. He’s rarely ever notbeen in pain, but strangely, now – it’s just his wrist, which hewriggles pitifully, lips trembling as he stares up at Victor.

“Okay,”Victor soothes, “Okay. I’ll get them to put some more numbinggel. Does that sound okay?”

Yuurinods, still sniffling, tears falling from his eyes.

“You’resafe,” Victor says, “Really safe now, okay? I’m right here.I’ll never leave your side again.”

“Thisis a dream,” Yuuri whispers, shaking his head. “I’m going towake up.”

“It’snot a dream,” Victor says, firm. His fingers reach up to caressYuuri’s cheek, and Yuuri leans into the soft touch with a littlehum. Victor is so much bigger than Yuuri remembers – of course, thelast time he saw him, they were children. His hair is short, his bodybroad and healthy, the baby fat gone from his face and replaced bysharp angles and wariness.

He’sstill so beautiful, though. His features are delicate, though thereinnocence has long gone from them, leaving him lovely and sharp as anice sculpture. He doesn’t feel cold, though, not when he caressesYuuri’s cheeks, presses their foreheads together.

“It’sbeen so long,” Yuuri sobs, “So, so long.”

“Iknow,” Victor’s voice cracks, “I know. But I’m here, now.”

“Ithought you died,” Yuuri wails, thrashing against the tubesand machines and his own heavy body, “There was so much blood.”

Victor’shands go to his shoulders, his arms, and he slips beside Yuuri on thebed to calm him down. They barely fit, the two of them, adults now –but Victor is so warm and soft and his nose nuzzles into Yuuri’scheek.

“Thetrain caught my wings,” Victor murmurs, voice cracking. “It… Ittore them. Mangled them. There’s barely anything left. It’s,”he takes a deep, shuddering breath, “It’s how I pass for human soeasily. How I can do the things I do.”

“Howdid you escape?” Yuuri whimpers, nuzzling in closer, whining thathe can’t wrap his own wings and arms around Victor.

Victorlaughs, humorlessly. “Luck. That’s it. They were going toeuthanize me – what’s an avian without wings, right? Turn my bodyinto some sick exhibition,” he shakes his head, swallowing down thebreak in his voice. “But someone underground wanted an avian, so ascientist who needed money dropped me off with him. It was – it wasawful. He wanted me as a pet, kept in a cage, something to paradearound to impress his friends. He beat me, just for fun, just becausehe could. He beat his wife, too, his kids, his dog…”

“OhVitya,” Yuuri murmurs, eyes welling up with fresh tears.

“Hegot greedy,” Victor snarls. “Wanted too many of us. Me, Georgi,Mila – we got sick of it, eventually, so banded together. We killedthe bastard. Took his guns. Took his dog, too. His family kept hisfortune, but we just wanted to be free. I’ve been trying to saveavians like us – trying to find you ever since.”

“Icouldn’t escape again,” Yuuri stammers, “I’m sorry, Vitya, Icouldn’t stop them. I thought you were dead, there was no point inleaving, so I just let them hurt me again and again and again. Ishould have t-tried, I was in so much pain-”

“No,Yuuri,” Victor soothes, wrapping a comforting arm around his waist,cradling the back of Yuuri’s head. “No. Don’t think like that.You were so brave, enduring what you did. I’m so, so proud of you,but,” he lifts Yuuri’s chin, gently, so their eyes meet,red-rimmed and watery. “You’re free, now. I promise you. You’llnever be in pain again.”

Hekisses Yuuri, then, lips soft and sweet – just a little peck, butthat’s all it takes to calm the fear in Yuuri’s heart, just for amoment.

Victorgoes bright red.

“I,”he stammers, “I mean, I, that was presumptuous, I’m sorry-”

“Youcan do it again,” Yuuri murmurs, still sluggish, one of the tubespumping wonderful, sweet pain relief into him. His body is heavy, buthis heart is light, the world around him calm for the first time inhis life.

Victorsmiles, eyes crinkling with warmth, and kisses him again. This time,it’s slower, deeper, though no less soft and tender.

Somethingwet presses against his hand, and Yuuri turns his head to see afluffy poodle wagging its tail by the side of the bed, nose pressedinto Yuuri’s fingers.

“That’sthe dog,” Victor snorts.

“She’swonderful,” Yuuri grins, dopily. “Everything is wonderful. Mm,I’m sleepy.” Fear grips him, suddenly, and he clutches Victor’shand so hard his nails prick the skin, but Victor doesn’t move.“Will you stay with me? I can’t be alone when I wake up, please,I don’t want to be alone-”

“Ofcourse,” Victor whispers, kissing Yuuri’s cheek tenderly. “I’llstay with you every moment, I’ll be there right when you wake up,okay? Sleep, now, my darling. Sleep. You’re safe now.”

Yuuricloses his eyes again, settling back comfortably into the mattress,the fluffy pillows behind his head, Victor’s body cocooning himwith sweet comfort. He’d forgotten what it was like to not beafraid, to not be in pain, and he lets Victor’s soft mantras carryhim to sleep.

You’re safe now.

I’m with you, I’llnever leave you.

I love you.

[nomorelonelydays]

A Consort to a King - Snippet - fic submission

Here is a snippet of my SidGeno Game of Thrones AU :) Hopefully I will have the rest of it up by next weekend after my finals are done!

———-

Winterfell should not be this cold in the summer, Evgeni mentally laments to himself as he and his camp are finally allowed past the gates hiding the capitol of the North away from wandering eyes. The guards are much more stoic than his own, but he does not mind so. Sasha informs the guards to the residence of House Crosby of who they are, and the guards are quick to comply to Sasha’s demands to retrieve Lord Crosby and his family.

The family is already waiting for Evgeni and his men when they are led to a clearing just a little further down a cleared path. Evgeni halts his horse and dismounts him gracefully, despite his gangly stature. He straightens his robes and his massive bear fur across his shoulders as he waits for Sasha and Gonchar to dismount and follow his lead.

Lord Troy Crosby is about as stiff and expressionless as Evgeni had expected, but at least he is polite. Lady Trina Crosby, the Lord’s wife, is very polite and charming in her most humble way. Their daughter, Taylor Crosby is young—too young for a marriage of any kind, Evgeni thinks—and a true warrior, if her stance and the strength in her grip as Evgeni shakes hands with her is anything to go by. The boy of the family, Sidney Crosby, is—

“Damn him for running off again,” Lord Troy grumbles. Evgeni can see the faint hints of fondness in Lady Trina’s glare. She looks apologetically at Evgeni.

“I am terribly sorry for my son’s rudeness, Your Grace,” she says to him kindly. “I will make sure he is dealt with appropriately.” Evgeni waves his hand dismissively.

“It is not a bother to me. I can meet him some other time.” Trina’s tight-lipped smile eases into an easier, more genuine one.

“Why don’t I make you gentlemen some tea while we have our men send your bags to your chambers? I’m sure you are all exhausted from the trip.”

The home of House Crosby is beautiful and very well lived-in, Evgeni notices. The dark stone walls and fur rugs over rugged wooden floors. His chambers include a fireplace, a large, comfortable bed with the finest sheets and pillows, and a stunning view of the mountains to the West. The sun is starting to lower, but Evgeni is not too weary from his travels just yet.

Before Evgeni goes to have tea, he, Gonchar, and Sasha decide to visit the military camp just a short distance away, several of Sasha’s commanders in tow. The General had said something about wanting to meet with the Commander of the Northern Army to discuss strategies in case either nation is faced with an unexpected war once again. Evgeni can see the tension in Sasha’s shoulder, the same one that he had a blade lodged in only months ago, as they walk towards the camp.

“I take it you will not be sparring with any young cadets of any kind, correct?” Evgeni teases. Sasha grimaces as he slowly rotates his shoulder beneath his lighter armor.

“Not today, Zhenya,” Sasha sighs bemusedly. “Maybe later during our stay. I am not in the best shape to fight. The Royal Physician tells me to rest my shoulder for the time being.” Evgeni nods in understanding before turning back to the road in front of them. Sasha has never taken kindly to other people telling him what he should and should not do with his health and his body, but the new young Physician, Sir Nicklas Backstrom of Dorne, is the only one so far to put Sasha in his place and to tell him to, Evgeni recalls, “stop being so fucking pigheaded for once. You will die young and crippled if you keep damaging your body so.” Sasha was quick to listen to the Physician. Evgeni wonders if it truly has to do with Backstrom’s medical advice or because the fiery blond is the only one who can manage to speak to the General of Evgeni’s army like he is an old friend or a spouse.

When the group reaches the military grounds, sparring matches are taking place. Evgeni recognizes Commander Mario Lemieux standing on a platform, risen above his soldiers so he can watch his men more closely. When Mario looks to his left, he grins at the sight of Sasha, Gonchar, and Evgeni. Mario steps down from his platform and immediately gathers Sasha in a hug like they are old friends.

“How is your shoulder, General?” Mario asks with a sly smile. Sasha beams, missing tooth on display for the whole world to see.

“Much better than the last time I saw you, Commander,” Sasha replies. “Still not ready to see hand to hand combat, but hopefully it will heal nicely.” Mario nods, obviously pleased with Sasha’s answer. Mario hugs Gonchar as well and asks about the Royal Hand’s wife and two daughters. Evgeni casually looks around at the soldiers training. Most of them are young, scrappy, and even a little scrawny. Evgeni reminisces being a young, brash soldier, trying to rise up the ranks. Even though he is not much younger than these men, his soul feels many decades older than he actually is. Seeing them revives the itch he has been suppressing to go back into battle and kill, kill, kill. Ever since his coronation, King Evgeni has not driven a blade into an enemy’s skin. It is driving him mad with dissatisfaction and longing. His thirst to fight needs to be quenched.

Evgeni continues to distractedly watch the warriors spar amongst each other until his dark eyes stop on a pair of soldiers, a little older than the others but still young and very fit, swinging fists and legs like they were born for combat. Evgeni tilts his head in interest as he watches the men fight intently. The one with longer hair and a pretty face is only slightly slimmer than his opponent, but it is enough to have him overpowered. He tackles his adversary to the muddy ground until the other man uses his powerful legs to throw him off. The bulkier man jumps to his feet, light as a feather, and the men spar some more. Evgeni is entranced, just like the other soldiers now surrounding the other two men. They continue to punch, kick, jump, and fight with such tenacity and fluidity, Evgeni almost believes it looks more like a dance than two men sparring in a muddy courtyard.

“Incredible, aren’t they, Your Grace?” Evgeni turns to look at Mario, who is smiling proudly at the pair of soldiers still fighting. “My two finest soldiers. They’ve grown up together their whole lives and fight better than almost any man I have ever seen. They blow me away with their grace. I will be proud to see either of them become the next Commander of this army.”

“You are retiring?” Evgeni asks in surprise. Mario grunts in confirmation and nods. “I have a wife four young children waiting for me at home. I have taken many risks with not only my health but my family and my men. I am far past my prime and it’s my time to pass down the torch. Few of these men are capable of taking my place, but I know who are the most worthy of consideration. Two of them are currently fighting each other like mad men.” Evgeni ponders over Mario’s words as he turns back to the fight. The men have their fists up, laughing and smiling at each other like they’re playing like boys in the schoolyard.

“You tired yet, mon ami?” the taller, slimmer one taunts. His opponent laughs loudly—a strange sound for a laugh, but it sounds just as lovely as his fighting looks. Evgeni still cannot see his face.

“You’ll have to fight harder than that to wear me down,” the shorter man retorts in a smooth, velvety voice. His friend shrugs and runs to him at full speed. They spar again, more intensely than before, and Evgeni watches on like he is at a sporting event. The fight doesn’t last much longer, though, when the shorter man finally takes a roundhouse kick to his opponent’s neck, flattening him to the ground within seconds.

“I call mercy! I’m done!” The winner kneels over his groaning adversary and holds out a hand. His companion laughs and takes his hand. Both men are quickly up to their feet, laughing and breathing heavily as they listen to their fellow soldiers congratulate them on a job well done. Mario lets them all talk for a few more moments until he whistles at them to capture their attention. The courtyard falls silent almost immediately.

“Lieutenants. May I have you two come up front, please?” the Commander asks, looking directly at the two soldiers who have just finished their sparring match. They nod once at their Commander and step forward. “The rest of you: continue with your training. No bullshitting with the sparring.” Mario turns to look at Sasha and Evgeni. “Come and meet my two finest men.”

The group lower themselves from the platform and are on even ground with everyone else. The two muddy soldiers are given towels to wipe away the grime from their faces as King Evgeni, Commander Lemieux, Royal Hand Gonchar, and General Ovechkin approach. They immediately straighten when they see King Evgeni and bow their heads respectfully.

“Your Grace,” the taller one with nice hair says somberly, eyes cast down. Evgeni bows his head back in thanks. The man grins at Evgeni and holds his hand out to shake. “Kristopher Letang. Second Lieutenant Commander of the Northern Army.” Evgeni takes the handsome soldier’s hand and shakes it.

“Pleased to meet you,” the King says. “You fight very well. I was impressed.” Letang’s grin spreads. “Thank you, Your Grace. Trained with some of the best.” Evgeni hums in agreement before turning to Letang’s companion. “And what is your name, winner?” The shorter man wipes his face properly with the towel and—and—

Fuck, Evgeni thinks, what beautiful creature is this?

“Sidney Crosby,” the soldier introduces himself with a curt bow of his head—much more curtly and informal than his friend, Evgeni notices—his dark curls bouncing with the movements of his head. No smile graces his uncharacteristically dark pink lips, but Evgeni cannot bring himself to care. “First Lieutenant Commander of the Northern Army.” There is a tense pause before Letang harshly elbows Sidney in his ribs. Sidney flares at his friend before reluctantly holding his hand out to shake. “Welcome to my home, Your Grace.” Evgeni tenderly takes Sidney’s calloused but very soft, muddy hand and raises the knuckles to his lips. His eyes never leave Sidney’s deep brown ones.

“A pleasure it is to meet a beautiful man such as yourself,” the King says sincerely before bowing his head to kiss Sidney’s knuckles, as if Sidney is royalty himself. “I have not seen someone who can fight as well as you. One of the best soldiers I have ever seen.” Evgeni does not miss the small blush dusting Sidney’s cheeks. Evgeni just thought Sidney was beautiful before. Sidney clears his throat and quickly pulls his hand from Evgeni’s grip.

“Thank you, Your Grace. Your words are very flattering.” His voice sounds stiff, like he isn’t used to hearing such compliments. Evgeni wishes to say something else, but he chooses to keep his words to himself.

“I hate to be the one to interrupt this little introduction,” Gonchar’s voice cuts in, “but I do believe that someone was supposed to meet with Lady Trina for tea this afternoon.” Just like that, Sidney rolls his broad shoulders back and regains his military composure. Evgeni has never wished to stab his own Royal Hand, but he is very tempted.

“Then I should not be the one to keep you all waiting,” Sidney says formally. He locks eyes with Evgeni again, the beautiful brown hidden away by the quick flash of gold. It’s gone as quickly as it comes. Evgeni is sure he would have missed it if he was not paying close enough attention. “Enjoy your stay in Winterfell, Your Grace. Hopefully, we will see each other again.” Evgeni can hear the hint of hope in those words, and he grins.

“We most certainly will meet again, Lieutenant Commander.” The discrete blush returns just as Sidney is being whisked away by Mario and Letang, the three men walking back to the soldiers still standing in the courtyard. Evgeni groans at Sasha’s smirk.

“Only known him for all of two minutes, and you’re already gone for him,” Sasha teases. “Not that I can blame you. He is very handsome.”

Beautiful, Evgeni wants to say. Sidney Crosby is not handsome. He is beautiful.

[1dffsummerexchange]

Star Girl

Written For: @tinyfelthat 

Written By: @ktrsss1fics

Pairing: Niall / OFC

Word Count: 3,923

Warnings: -

Summary:

Elisheba Aut fell in love with Niall Horan almost immediately. She had traveled to the deepest corners of the universe and never saw anything as beautiful as him. When given the chance to travel the galaxy with her beloved boyfriend, will she say yes? A story about true love, foreign languages, and Niall Horan's star girl.

Star Girl - Missed Video Message (1)

He waited for the hologram to load. He hadn’t spoken to her in two days. He tried to get back to his quarters in time to see her but he was a few minutes too late.

Her face appeared above his personal communication device. She was wearing the moon rock necklace he had gotten on his trip to the outer region of the Gamma Rhogana system. It was the perfect shade of green. It matched the color her eyes turned in the early morning light.

“Niall, mo mhíle grá.” She said with a smile.

His heart skipped a beat as the words of his native tongue slipped past her lips. He hadn’t been to his home planet in what felt like forever. He didn’t know if he’d even recognize it.

His parents chose to leave when he was young. They headed to Tanith, the home of the High Council, and took jobs as interpreters for the government. It was noble work and he had always admired them for it. 

Instead of helping people voice their opinions, he decided to protect them. When he came of age, he joined the Intergalactic Defense League. Through hard work and dedication, he worked his way up to commander and was now doing private security detail for the High Council.

In fact, that’s how they met.

Her name was Elisheba Aut but those who knew her well called her Lisa. Her story was simple. She came from a line of migrant workers. Her ancestors escaped war-torn planets and toxic dictatorships. After many years of searching, they ended up taking refuge on the lush jungle planet of Ogoul. Instead of joining the family health food business, she put herself through school and became an interpreter for the High Council.

She traveled throughout the galaxy helping people like her parents. She became the voice for the occupants of the smaller planets. She spoke 450 different languages - including four different humanoid dialects.

She was a work of art. She constantly made his knees weak. From the way her periwinkle skin glowed in the moonlight to the way her bright magenta hair looked in the early morning sun, he couldn’t get enough. Although she was physically beautiful, nothing could surpass her inner beauty. That had been passed on by the generations before her. Her blood came from the veins of warriors and poets. She loved fiercely and fought fair. She was a voice to the voiceless and believed in doing things for the greater good.

She truly was out of his world.

They first met at the annual High Council meeting. She thought he was a reporter there to take notes on the controversial order that a group of greedy leaders was trying to get passed. He thought she was a princess from Cebu, an aquatic planet known for beautiful women and extravagant starships. They couldn’t be more wrong. His rank left her stunned. A man of that stature could not protect the members of the High Council. But he did and he did it well.

When he first heard her speak, she was advocating for a group of leaders from the mountainous planet of Bianor. A language that took most people years to learn fell effortlessly from her lips. He realized that she was something special and it didn’t take long for him to fall for her. But that’s okay because she fell too - fast and hard.

They had been together for five years. Five years of travelling millions of miles just to spend a few nights together. It was difficult but somehow they made it work. During their third year, she was offered a job as the personal interpreter for a very influential member of the High Council. If she accepted, she wouldn’t have to rely on holograms and long shuttle rides to see her beloved. If she accepted, her job would change. She’d be no longer looking out for the underdog. She’d no longer be helping people like her parents and grandparents. She’d be helping a leader rule over millions of people. That didn’t sit right with her. As much as she loved Niall, she couldn’t do it. He understood but that didn’t stop him from being disappointed.

“We made it to Kallisto and we should be in Tanith by the morning. I miss you and can’t wait to see you, my love.” She said as a small yawn escaped.

He missed her dearly. The way her nose crinkled when she yawned. The way she spoke in her native tongue when she was mad. The way her hair smelled after a shower. He couldn’t believe it’d been nearly six months since they’d seen each other last.

Lisa played with her hair subconsciously, “Only one more sleep until I see your face.”

Niall looked at the clock on the wall. He still had six hours until her shuttle arrived. He knew he should sleep but his mind was wide awake. He kept his eyes on the face of the holographic girl sitting in his lap. He could not wait to hold her close.

She started to talk about a new job offer she had received but didn’t give up any real details about it. She said they’d speak about it once she arrived. He hoped it was something in Tanith so they wouldn’t have to spend so much time apart.

“Tá mo chroí istigh ionat.” She spoke before ending the call.

“Tá mo chroí istigh ionat.” He whispered to himself before placing the device on his night stand.

Those five words played in his mind as he stared at the ceiling. My heart is in you. He loved her deeply. He wanted to show her that. Maybe he’d find a different job to make the distance more attainable. Maybe he’d suggest going on vacation. They could take a trip back to Ogoul or Hibernia, just the two of them. Maybe he’d ask her to move in.

He didn’t know what he wanted to do but he knew he needed to do something. He needed her to know that despite the distance, she was his true love. His star girl.

Those six hours came and went. His alarm had been going off for nearly ten minutes before he stumbled out of bed. He quickly threw on his uniform and attempted to do his hair. His watch beeped letting him know he only had five minutes to make it across the station to the docking bay where her shuttle would be landing. He wasn’t going to make it in time.

The lanky lad jogged through the space station weaving in and out of people as he went. He headed for his favorite shortcut but it was blocked. Some sort of construction project was being done so he had to go the long way around.

Fortunately, Niall made it to the bay just as Lisa was exiting the ship. She grabbed her luggage from the bin that had been underneath the plane. She scanned the crowd before landing on his face. A happy smile fell upon her likes as she made her way over.

At first, they didn’t speak. He closed the space between them. His strong arms pulled her into a warm embrace. She buried her head into his neck. He loved the way she molded into him. He placed a kiss on top of her head. He had missed this.

“Hi love.” He whispered softly in her ear.

“You’re early.” She teased.

“I only overslept by ten minutes and not the usual twenty.” He replied dryly.

“You’re stepping up in the world, Horan.” She replied lifting her head from his chest.

“Are you hungry?” Niall asked looking into her eyes.

Lisa shook her head before stealing a sweet kiss. “I need to change for the meeting.”

“My shower awaits.” He winked making her skin grow warm.

“We can’t do that until after the meeting.” She said with a furrowed brow.

Niall let out a dramatic sigh. “I know.”

“Let’s go.” Lisa said pulling away from him.

He looked at her confused. She usually wasn’t this shy around him.

“I want to give you a proper kiss but don’t want you to lose your job over it.” She said interlocking her fingers with his.

“Elisheba, everyone knows.” He sighed giving her hand a squeeze.

“Still doesn’t mean they can’t fire you for fraternizing with a mere civil servant like me, Commander.” She said razzing him.

“You are a pain in the ass.” He mumbled trying not laugh at her joke.

Lisa tilted her head to the side, “What do you mean? I didn’t even touch you.”

“It’s just a sayin’ love.” He smiled before placing a quick kiss on her forehead.

Lisa was hands down the smartest woman he knew. The amount of languages she was fluent in was astounding. The amount of time it took her to learn all those languages was even more impressive. He knew a few different languages but he didn’t know them very well. He didn’t know how she kept each language straight. There were times, like right now, where she took things a little too literal. He knew she didn’t know any better but he still found it adorable.

She nodded slowly. “Like the cold shoulder. I understand.”

“Exactly baby.” Niall smiled sliding his arm around her shoulder. “Like cum mula peperit.”

Her eyes lit up, “You remembered!”

“Of course I did.” He said as they started to walk to his home. “I had a great teacher.”

“My mother used that phrase a lot when I was little.” Lisa said reminiscing about her childhood. Her native tongue was one she held close to her heart. “Especially with my uncles.”

“How are they doing?” He asked.

“Good. It is almost shuura season so they are all very excited for it.” Lisa said with a smile.

Shuura was a sweet yellow fruit that grew in abundance on her home planet. The season when they bloomed was her favorite. She remembered sitting in her grandparents’ kitchen with her brothers and sisters waiting to help sort through the harvest.

“Maybe she’ll send some to us again.” He said as they headed deeper into the station. “Or maybe we can just go visit.”

“Ogoul?” She said with a hint of excitement to her voice. “Really?”

Niall nodded. “I was thinking we should take a trip to Ogoul, Hibernia, and maybe somewhere like Traugantu to see those volcanic flowers you’re always going on about.”

“Canna Durban!” She chirped with a grin. “Oh Niall can we really? Can we go?”

“I’m do for some time off. What about you?” He asked as his living quarters came into view. He slid his arm off of her shoulder and grabbed her hand instead.

She let out a sigh. “I don’t know.”

“What about this new offer?” He asked placing his keycard in its spot on his door.

“I don’t know if I should take it.” She said hesitantly. “It’s a big responsibility but I wouldn’t be able to help out as many people as I do now. Or at least I don’t think I would.”

“What’s the job?” He asked allowing her to enter before him.

“You know Mandy?” She asked heading for the restroom.

”Yeah the main translator for the Council.” He said following behind her.

“She wants to retire and move to like the care sector so she can help take care of the Council members’ kids.” She said slipping out of her travel clothes. “So her job would be open.”

“That’s great.” Niall said watching her closely. He had every inch of her committed to memory. He wanted so badly, to recommit certain parts but there wasn’t enough time.

She slid on her top before peaking out of the doorway. “Mandy recommended me specifically to take her spot.”

“Really?” He asked surprised.

“Yeah.” She blushed. “Isn’t that crazy?”

“No. You’re great at your job. Anyone with eyes could see that.” He said crossing his arms over his chest. “She’s always thought highly of you.”

“That’s true.” She said searching for the rest of her uniform. “I just–I just don’t know. I don’t think I’m ready for that.”

“It’s the same job isn’t it?” He asked.

She mumbled an answer making him smile. He had missed her so much.

“You would have an advantage though.” He said as she shot a confused look in his direction.

She stood up. “How?”

“Mandy was born and raised in Tanith. She never ventured out. Everything she learned, she learned here.” He said walking up behind her.

“You have gotten so much experience being out in the field. You have traveled all over the galaxy learning new languages. And you have a spot spot for those nations that are underrepresented.” Niall said placing his hands on her shoulders. “You could change the way those meetings are run.”

“I’m just an interpreter Ni.” She sighed.

Niall placed his lips to the base of her neck. Her body relaxed into his. He placed a string of kisses against her exposed skin causing goosebumps to form.

“You are so much more than that baby.” He whispered before placing a kiss on her temple.

“I mean you would be a lot closer and I could see you more.” She said closing her eyes.

“Exactly. That is a plus.” He smiled.

“And the pay is significantly better.” She added. “And it would help my parents out more.”

“And Mandy specifically recommended you for it.” Niall said giving her shoulders a gentle squeeze. “And you know how Senator Abderos is about that shit.”

“I know. I know.” Lisa said opening her eyes and turning around.

He studied her face. For some reason, she looked older to him. It had only been six months but it felt a lot longer. He cupped her cheek, gently stroking her skin with his thumb. She nuzzled into his hand. His heart skipped a beat at her touch.

Niall had always heard women from Ogoul were different. They were often described as rough, crass, and a whole lot of trouble. The moment he met Elisheba Aut, he knew this couldn’t be true. She was gentle, caring, and humble. She was everything he could ever want in a partner.

With a slow breath, she made up her mind, “I think I’m gonna do it.”

“Perfect.” Niall smiled placing a deep kiss on her lips. “You’ll be absolutely perfect.”

“I love you.” She whispered as she pulled away.

He whispered back, “Amo te.”

Her eyes lit up. She had taught him some words from her native tongue. He loved to use them. Whenever he did, she fell more in love with him.

“Okay I really need to get ready.” She said pecking his lips. “So go away.”

Yes ma’m.” He winked as he left the room.

The rest of the day was spent discussing galactic safety standards and disaster protocol. Foreign languages were decoded and foreign dignitaries were protected. He was allowed to leave at six but she was asked to stay until eight. She didn’t mind though. She sat in Senator Abderos’ office filling out paperwork putting her transfer into place. 

Lisa was moving on to bigger and better things.

She was going to have a better job with a better wage. She was going to be able to spend more time with her boyfriend. Most importantly, she’d be getting to help people in a different way.

A wave of excitement radiated from her chest. She couldn’t wait to tell her mother.

As she left headquarters, she founded her blue-eyed boyfriend waiting for her. His sleeves were rolled up and his hair was a mess. He was standing amongst a group of co-workers with a carefree smile plastered to his face.

She had missed that. 

She missed the way his eyes crinkled when he laughed too hard. She missed the way he slid his arm around her shoulder when they were out and about. She missed the way he kissed her hand on the long walk back to his place. She missed his laugh, his smile, his face.

Another joke was shared before she caught his eye. With a nod of his head, he motioned her over.

“Commander.” She nodded making him blush. She turned to the others with a polite smile on her face and curtsied, “Gentlemen.”

Various forms of “Good evening Miss Aut” were thrown in her direction.

“Ready to go?” Niall asked softly.

Lisa nodded slipping her hand into his. Niall placed a quick kiss on top of her palm before giving his friends a quick goodbye.

The pair left the pod where all the official High Council work took place. They travelled through the clerk's quarters before stepping into a lift that would take them down to the ground floor.

“So, what’d they say?” Niall asked eager to hear about her meeting with the senator.

“Well they brought up Mandy retiring and how it would put them in a tight spot if they didn’t find anyone soon.” Lisa explained. “Then they asked about my schooling and experience on the job. Mandy brought up the invasion I prevented between the A'Fannaeans and the Paragons.”

The A’Fannaeans, a science-based society, found an undocumented moon in orbit near their planet. They planned to send out an exploration team to claim it as their own. However, it also orbited Parago, a desert wasteland. The Paragons were a very stubborn race. They could start a war at the drop of a hat. When the news of the A’Fannaeans plans hit the dunes of Parago, tensions rose. Lisa was brought in to defuse the situation. It took forty days for them to reach an agreement. Thanks to her swift work, the A’Fannaeans and the Paragons agreed to share ownership.

She did that a lot. She helped small planets work out their differences.

“Did she bring up the Creetite incident at Vrialm Gorge?” He asked sounding interested.

“Yes she did. Then they spoke alone for a bit while I started the paperwork.” She said exiting the lift. “When they came out, they asked if I had any issues moving to the station and if I felt comfortable enough translate whenever I was need.”

“You don’t have any issues moving here, do you?” He asked. He knew she wanted to be closer to him but he never took in consideration what she’d be giving up if she moved.

“I mean I’ll miss where I’m at and I could always go visit if I wanted but I think this is what I need.” She said as they entered the living quarters quadrant. “We’ve been apart for too long. I’m sick of having an entire galaxy between us.”

Niall’s cheeks grew warm as he looked at her. “Really?”

“Is Commander Horan blushing because of me?” Lisa smirked making him blush even more.

He rolled his eyes making her laugh.

“I just want to make sure you really want to make this move.” He said pulling out his swipe card. “That you are doing it for the right reasons.”

“This is a dream job for so many people. I get to work with even more languages than I already do on a daily basis.” She said reassuring him. “I just can’t believe I even was offered the opportunity.”

“I can.” He said confidently. “You’re amazing.”

Lisa stood on her toes and placed a kiss on his cheek. “I love you.”

“So what happened next?” Niall asked flashing his badge to the guard.

“He just wanted to make sure I was okay with the transfer and then he said if I wanted to switch then the job was mine.” Lisa shrugged nonchalantly. “I think Mandy was more excited than I was.”

“When do you start?” He asked as his place came into view. He wanted to start making travel plans.

“I have to go back in next week to finish up some more paperwork and then I will have to do a week long training to learn more of the ins and outs of being at headquarters instead of out in the field.” She explained. “But I don’t know when my first official day on the floor will be.”

Niall just sighed. He tried to hide his disappointment but it was difficult. His reconnection trip around the galaxy was going to have to be put on hold.

“What’s wrong?” She asked as she watched him plop down on the couch.

“I got my vacation time approved.” He sighed covering up his face. “But it’s gonna have to wait now.”

She walked over and crawled on top of his lanky frame. “Why’s that?”

“You’re going to be too busy to go with me.” Niall mumbled into his palms.

“Says who?” Lisa asked nuzzling into his neck. His hands left his face to rest on her lower back.

“I mean you’ve got a week of training and plus we’ve got to move all your stuff to your new place here then you have to get acclimated to Tanith.” He rambled. “Plus you’re going to want to go to some work functions before you actually start to meet people. And that doesn’t leave very much time to go back home with me.”

“Ni, why are you worrying so much?” She asked tracing the logo on his chest.

“I know that’s usually your job.” He chuckled softly. Her touch caused goosebumps to form.

“You didn’t let me tell you the best part.” She whispered into his skin.

He hummed happily. “What’s that?”

“I get three weeks off before I have to go to the training.” She explained. “Someone I know is one of the senator’s favorites.”

“He didn’t say anything, did he?” Niall asked peering down at her shyly.

“He just said you told him about our plans and that if he wanted a well rested and focused staff that a few weeks off would be a good thing.” Lisa said making him smile.

“That bastard.” He laughed.

“So we can go to Ogoul and Hibernia and wherever else you want.” Lisa smiled.

“Let’s go to Partheon too.” Niall said thinking of all the combinations of planets they could visit.

“But you’ve been there so many times with the IDL. Aren’t you sick of it?” She asked.

“No because I haven’t been there with you yet.” He smiled.

“Ni.” She blushed.

“I could travel the entire galaxy with you by my side and never get bored.” He whispered softly into her hair.

Lisa exhaled slowly, “That would be nice. Travel around for a while, just you and me.”

“We could do it. Take sabbatical and then come back when we’re refreshed.” He said curling a strand of her hair around his finger.

“I wouldn’t be able to send money back home if we did that.” She yawned.

“I could use my savings for that. I’ve got at least three months worth maybe even more.” He offered.

“I don’t know. I just – I don’t know.” Lisa sighed.

She wanted to but she couldn’t let herself do it. It was too irresponsible.

“Wouldn’t you like to come with me?” He asked.

“Yes but I can’t.” She closed her eyes. “Not for that long at least.”

Lisa laughed, “Besides I think after traveling for three whole weeks with me, you’ll want to be by yourself for a while.”

“Impossible.” He said moving so they were face to face.

She looked at him confused, “How?”

“Because you’re my star girl.” He kissed her lips. “You rule my world.”

[beaskneeees]

Research: New artists

In a follow up to my new IPS direction and the work I want to make post-grad, here are some artists that I have researched and referenced in my exploration of this topic. Much of this area is sculpture, but I wanted to move away from that slightly as I don’t typically make 3D work, and instead try and find instances of outdoor paintings: (NOTE: For some reason I couldn’t add photos to this post, but they will be present in the development book)

To All At Sea

This piece, painted by Anthony Garrett and sculpted by Mark and Loz Shipwrights, is a memorial of the Royal Charter Storm of 1859. They describe it as: “a giant painting moving with the wind ... it is designed to encourage a creative interaction with an important piece of Welsh heritage and also our environment”

It was built on a coastal section close to where the crash happened, in Moelfre, Anglesey. The painting is mounted on a metal sculpture of a boat, aligning the sealines, blurring the line between painting and landscape, and event and landscape. The piece moves with the wind, transmitting data to a website and at 17.55 every day it draws an arc. It is a direct representation of history, magnified by placing it directly in its own context. The piece was accompanied by a poetry reading and a musical performance. 

This embedding of art within its landscape has massively inspired me, as I really draw upon the impact that this piece would have on the viewer. By existing outdoors, interacting with weather and the elements, the piece is deeply elevated to another level, and a painting becomes something bigger; an experience, a place and a piece of the earth.

High and Low

Also made by painter Anthony Garrett, this piece places paintings directly into the Snowdon landscape. He, with a small team, carried huge canvasses into the mountains and painted whilst within nature itself. In the film linked, it is interesting to watch Garrett make the paintings in the setting itself, watching the movements and gestures he makes. They show the gradually and complicated set up of the paintings in the lakes, floating the piece into the lake on the rafts.

I love the way that the piece is dwarfed by its surroundings, sitting like a stamp amongst huge paintings. The colours blend it into the water and the lakeside, but its sharp corners drawing the eye to it and creating attention. It exists as a zoomed out, mini version of the landscape itself and because this is framed within a camera shot too, it becomes some what meta as the element of the photograph is doubled up. 

The effort required to create the piece and place it in that surrounding is something I want to create in my own way; if I carry this piece with me on the hardest trek of my life so far, I have added to the grit and heart of the work. It magnifies the love and dedication I have for mountains, and the need I have to display this work within them as accurately (albeit experimentally) as possible. I feel my work will differ visually from Garretts as his work is a more traditional landscape, usually colours from the area rather than bright and garish climbing colours. However, the aim we both have, to take the work back to its home, or to take it somewhere new, is very much shared and I find his efforts very inspiring.

First There is a Mountain

Kate Paterson developed fully compostable bio plastic sand mounds, each within a UK location, recreating to a smaller but exact scale five mountains in the world, representing each continent. Each ‘mountain’ had a text accompanying it, that was read at each launching event. The structures were all temporary, and have all now composted and broken down. Her work attempts to touch upon the incomprehensible timeframes and events that lead to the formation and eventual breakdown of every mountain or rock form on earth. This notion takes me back to a lecture I went to at The Alpine Club, on the geology of the Alps, where I learnt the geographic events that led to the mountains creation. I also learnt there that every mountain is temporary, and eventually they will all fall. To think of these solid giants as temporary is mind blowing, and I feel that is exactly what this series is attempting to represent.

She created 3D moulds from NASA data to create exact mini representations, so you could use them to make sand castles (sand mountains?). The fleeting existence of the sand piles and the tiny scale compared to the human stature gives thought to the enormous scale of the universe, and how comparatively small these “huge” rock formations are to everything else around us.

It is a humbling experience to look a this work, and it ties so many ideas into such a simple concept. I admire the depth she has obtained from these formations, and the new context she gives to the mountains, as these sculptures are found on the coasts of the UK, rather than the dizzying mountain ranges the data and mountains originate in. I like the story telling of the piece, and the way it gives new context to a piece of mountain data.

Peoples Landscapes

The National Trust commissioned a number of artists to create art and events surround the lead up and key ares involved in the Peterloo Massacre, the most violent protest in UK history. They used location and story telling to create a filled narrative, overlaying art with history and location. I like the intertwining of history and art, and the way each was ‘performed’ or presented within the location it comes from. Perhaps I could elevate my work to become specifically about one climb, or one journey in particular, then return to that location with the work (or even make the work there, like Anthony Garrett). This could be followed up with an event or a launch, maybe not in the area itself as it might be difficult to reach, but in a nearby town or gallery. I feel local people tend to be keen to see work and therefor might be quite open to the idea of an exhibition.

Doug Aitken

Aitken created a series of structural sculptures called ‘Mirage’ in southern California. Each building is covered in mirrors inside and out, and is placed in an area of significant beauty, including mountains/rock formations.  I love this work as the views and nature becomes the work, reflected and rethought when engulfed in the mirrors of the ranches. Each area, time and angle brings something different to not just the viewer but also the piece, as it becomes the ever-changing nature of surroundings.

These buildings represent the distortion of suburban living, by taking an architectural template and turning into something void of life, instead merging it with its surroundings to become something different entirely. 

I am drawn to this work as it reflects the area simply by existing, as takes place in wild places. The boldness and scale of this project is very impressive, and is something I take great inspiration from. 

Jaspar John (flags)

Johns famous painting of the American flag is featured on this list as I have discussed the concept of flags in reference to the fabric paintings I am creating. Much like my approach, this painting was made on a cut bed sheet, and then encaustic with wax. The expressionist gestures representing something and becoming it at the same time play with the idea of ‘patriotism’. I relate this to my work as I truly do not wish to become patriotic or British in my approach to what some may perceive as a flag. I believe that climbing and mountaineering should be a universalised and unpatriotic activity; I resent the days where flags were placed at the top of mountains, deeming them ‘claimed’ by the nation that first summitted it. I am glad that now the climbing world seems to be leaving that behind, as now first ascents are prioritised by person, not place. The entire notion that flags of countries should be placed is inherently imperialistic and colonial; the mountains belong to no one and everyone, so thus to place a flag is meaningless. However, my work can change the meaning of placement, and adapt the notion of ‘the flag’ like John did, as I will refuse to involve nationality or permanence in the work, instead focusing on the shared passion all climbers feel.

General Artists:

Matt McCormick

For the structure of the paintings, as some become looser and less heavily structured compared to my original paintings, McCormick’s cowboy/western paintings really came to mind. The collage-esque structure of the work, as well as its use of dry materials against wet paint is mirrored in my work, and has inspired me a great deal as I learn more about composition and placement. The looser nature of fabric means that everything is no longer in a rigid grid, like it had been on the wood, but instead now even the slightest wind or movement will effect the view of the work. All of this must be considered as I begin to make these paintings. 

Nina Cosford

Now moving on briefly to the rest of my work, specifically the reportage work I am developing for my website from my trip to Japan, I take great inspiration from Cosford and her travel journals. Geoff recommended I checked out her work, and noted that she was sponsored to go on trips, and gets commercial work from the sketchbooks she creates on these journeys. This is my ideal line of commercial illustration work, as travelling is one of my biggest passions in life, and sketchbooking on my trips is a highlight of the experience. To get the chance to do this professionally would be groundbreaking for me on a personal level. I think it will be worth exploring Cosfords work and clients deeply, in order to prepare myself for approaching them in the future. It also helps me understand and process how to display this work, both in the sketchbook itself and on the website. She makes short films about her process, which is also something I could do in the future, once I get a camera. 

Photography:

In my tutorial form, Rachel recommended I check out some photographers who work with mountain photography to prepare and present my plan on how I would photograph my work in the natural setting. 

Jimmy Chin

Chin is an idol of mine, a true symbol of being a master of many skills, as he is a world class photographer, cinematographer and climber/mountaineer. Chin embodies what I wish to do with my creative outlet, but also his photography is important to me as it comes from the view of a climber. He knows the people he shoots, he knows how they are feeling when they climb as he is a great climber himself, and he can keep up with them on expeditions. This leads to incredible photos, and to me really represents the concept of “method”, as all of his work comes from being so involved and experienced. In terms of the photography itself, the mountains frame themselves in the photo and the eye is led on a journey, following the explorers through the photo and leading them to the surroundings. 

The bright colours of the clothes worn by the explorers, climbers and mountaineers juxtapose with the sheer whiteness of the snow around them, and the grey of the mountains and the sky. The alien-ness of the human in extreme places is emphasised by this sharp difference, and that is something I wish to emulate in my paintings; the idea of the human being ‘other’ and indifferent in the eyes of the mountains. Climbers will all tell you, the mountain does not care about you. You are tiny, small in its world. We go on regardless, in search of beauty and experience and life. I want my paintings to contrast in that way; unlike Garrets paintings, and Aitkin’s mirror buildings, I want my work to contrast, to stick out, like the way climbers do when they are sat, tired but excited on a ledge of a mountain. We want to become one with the mountains, but it will always be a cold relationship, but that never stops climbers. 

Jacob Robinson

I particularly looked at Robinsons ‘Dry Stone Waller’ short film, made in Cumbria about the ancient craft of dry stone walling. I really enjoyed the quiet stillness of the film, with no need for voice or digital processing (filmed in film I believe), and as a result creating a holistic experience of mountain and craft. The film really creates an atmosphere as the wind howls and the murky clouds are shot so well that it feels as if you are getting wet from the misty rain. The angles used, low to the ground and lack of drone footage, makes the experience of viewing more human, and moves away from these epic, high cost Redbull style filmmaking (of which I also enjoy, but which gives an entirely different experience of the mountains). The slow pace gives you time to take everything in, as if you are sat on a bench or on the floor admiring it yourself. I like films that don’t rush, or force you to look at too many things at once like this. 

I can really learn from the framing of the shots and the atmosphere created here. This relates to my work as initially for the degree show I had planned to play sound in the background of my work, to enhance the closeness of the mountains and allow the work to take on the persona of “climber”. I think photographing my work in this way will take my initial concept to another level, as now the work is climbing itself, like those who take photos in the mountains. 

Jonas Mekas 

I chose to include Mekas simply because I love his photographic style; classic, on film reels and filled with story and colour and love. The three images stacked on top of each other creates a sense of movement and longevity, as it embodies the time the photo was taken. Rather than having a singular still image to represent a moment entirely, the three photos together create a timeline, a full moment, realised in a triadic state. It creates intimacy with those it captures, and tells you a story. I love this structure, and I want to experiment with it in a simpler, rougher way as I don’t have the technical means to take the photos on film currently. I do have film photos of some of my climbing experiences, so I should experiment with collaging them and merging them wih my paintings.

[inb4vaughn]

18 Great Golf Products For 2018

There was a palpable rise in enthusiasm and energy at this year’s PGA Merchandise Show in Orlando, Florida, where thousands of PGA pros, officials and media packed as many visits as possible to hundreds of exhibitor booths showing off the latest in golf equipment, apparel, technology, services and travel. As Golf Tips editors plow through a mountain of information and photos from the show for its May-June 2018 Equipment Issue, we’ve compiled a sneak peek of sorts — 18 Great Golf Products for 2018. No doubt you’ll discover a slight trend toward techno-goodies and short game tools, especially putters. Call it the “rub of the research green” for now, but rest assured we’ll cover everything we can as the year rolls out.

AfterShokz Headphones

Golfers are athletes, and a lot of them like to listen to music while practicing or playing a casual round. Wireless headphones are a godsend but traditional in-ear models cut out the outside world. Sometimes that’s a good thing, but if you’d rather stay connected to your playing partners or coach as your personal soundtrack plays out, AfterShokz are worth a look. The speakers in both the Titanium and Air models send sound through the cheekbones and into the inner ear, avoiding the ear canal altogether — allowing awareness and comfort-without compromising on premium sound. These open ear headphones are built with elite and aspiring athletes in mind, so you can use them at the gym, during a road run or on your bike, too. Golf Tips is testing a pair and we are impressed by the sound quality thanks to proprietary PremiumPitch+ technology, which delivers dynamic range and truly powerful bass.

www.aftershokz.com

AmpCaddy Speaker

Rocking a personal playlist on the golf course is a real “thing” these days, more accepted than ever, but dragging a regular Bluetooth speaker into the cart leads to more than a few issues. Keep it tucked away and you can’t hear it at all; put it out in the open and it becomes a nuisance to the more sensitive playing partners among us. The Ampcaddy, which emerged in 2014 as GolfBeatz out of Austin, Texas, eliminates those problems with its hyper-directional speakers, so you can attache it to the side of a powered cart or even a walking cart with the provided specially designed bracket, and enjoy those favorite Zeppelin or jazz riffs almost as if you were wearing headphones — without disturbing anyone else. The speaker is durable, sounds great (optimized for the outdoors) and has strong battery life.

www.ampcaddy.com

BioMech Putting Sensor System

Any product that has the backing of Pebble Beach Director of Instruction Laird Small — as well as legendary putter builder and fitter David Edel — is automatically on our “Best Of” radar, and the BioMech sensor definitely makes the grade. The small, lightweight sensor, which attaches to the underside of putter shaft just below the grip, picks up every metric that matters to instructors and students yearning to perfect their strokes: Face angle going back, through and at impact, change in loft at impact, club path, rhythm and target line length. It’s all gathered in real time, with stats uploading to an app immediately for review by player and coach, whether they’re on the practice green or on the course. “We can actually see what their habits are on the golf course on a six foot breaking part or a 40 footer,” Small sais, “and you can actually see and track that stuff right away. So for the player and for the teacher is invaluable information because you’re going from a multi-site environment to a one-shot environment.”

www.biomechsports.com/golf

Bomb-It Training Aid

We came across this nifty and intuitive “lo-fi” training aid from Momentus Sports at the PGA Show’s Demo Day at Orange County Golf Complex. Its tiny but heavy clubhead — either the 37cc “Pro” or 55cc “Am” model — basically strips away the rest of a regular driver, leaving only the sweet spot. Both have a 200 gram club head, 9.5 degrees of loft, a 70 gram graphite shaft, and a standard grip. The idea is simple but powerful: You’d better concentrate on a smooth, on-plane swing to hit the sweet spot and send a good shot in the direction you’re aiming, with surprising power. You’ll get feedback on the slightest off-center strike right away, and it ain’t pretty, but a spot-on strike is handsomely rewarded. Bomb-It Mini is available on Feb. 15 in right-hand only.

www.momentussports.com

Bushnell Phantom

Now this is a cool take on GPS devices: Tiny in stature but plenty big in distance data. The Phantom comes preloaded with more than 36,000 courses and provides simple measurements to the front, center and back distances of the green – along with up to four hazard/layup distances per hole. The device also has what the company calls “Bite Technology” — a high powered magnet the Phantom can easily attach to a cart bar or any metal surface, providing quick and easy yardage readings. Additional features include auto course and auto hole recognition, shot distance calculator and long battery life (play up to two rounds before charging). Bushnell Golf’s latest Golf GPS innovation also integrates Bluetooth technology; coupled with the Bushnell Golf Mobile application, the Phantom no longer needs to use a computer for course updates. It comes in four colors — Black, Red, Electric Blue, Neon Yellow — and will be available at retail in late-February.

www.bushnellgolf.com

Callaway Rogue

Callaway Golf is following up in its successful Epic driver/fairway woods line with Rogue, which features the company’s Jailbreak Technology to increase ball speed in both drivers and fairway woods. “We aligned these technologies (Jailbreak and X-Face VFT) to amplify what we call the ‘Jailbreak Effect,’ which is all about promoting faster ball speed on both center and off-center hits to help golfers get more average distance on nearly every drive,’’ said Dr. Alan Hocknell, senior vice president of R&D for Callaway Golf. Triaxial Carbon composite crown surface area in the Rogue driver and new high-MOI shape with larger address footprint combine to increase stability and forgiveness. In the Rogue fairway woods Hocknell said Jailbreak Technology and Face Cup work together for the first time to promote fast ball speed across a large part of the face for consistently long distance.

www.callawaygolf.com

Cobra F8 Driver

One of Golf Tips’ Top 30 instructors, John Hughes, swears by Cobra when students ask him about a great game-improvement driver. Well, the new King F8, with its oversized shape, boasts maximum forgiveness. Meanwhile, the F8+ has a “Tour preferred” shape for maximum workability, leading Rickie Fowler to put it in his bag after just a few swings earlier in the 2017-18 season. Both build on the successes of their F6 and F7 predecessors by adding the company’s first CNC milled driver face paired with 360-degree Aero Technology. Add in the popular, visible carbon fiber crown, two weight settings and lofts from 9 to 12 degrees and you’v got what what Cobra is calling its “smartest, fastest, most precise” drivers ever.

www.cobragolf.com

Directed Force Putter

This center-shafted, uniquely shaped putter debuted a couple years ago with its original Reno model, but the revolutionary “lie angle balance” technology behind it still stands alone in the broad and competitive world of wands. While most club manufacturers concentrate on face balanced and counterbalanced putters, Directed Force’s approach to club balance purports to get rid of unwanted head rotation and torque once and for all by increasing the putter head’s ability to stay square through the ball during the putting stroke without any adjustments from your hands. The result — the body’s smaller and less reliable muscle groups relax, allowing a player’s stronger muscles to maintain control over swing speed and path. Lie-angle balancing creates a “pendulum-like” stroke with unmatched stability, ball direction and distance control. Putters ship fully assembled with a “PressGrip,” which features integrated forward press technology. The putter shaft travels through the grip’s elliptical shape off-axis by 3 degrees, not through the center of the grip as found on most putters. This unique shaft alignment creates the forward lean players are looking for to hit up through impact without increasing the loft of the putter. All are mechanically forged from 6061 aircraft aluminum and heat treated to eliminate any natural inconsistencies in the metal. Every Directed Force putter is custom fit for every golfer, from shaft length to lie angle. The proprietary formula and head design ensures a consistent center of gravity for every club regardless of a player’s unique specifications.

www.directedforce.com

Flux Putter

Controlling spin on a golf ball, especially putts, is a big issue for even the best players. Most putter strikes have some form of side spin and backspin that take the ball off the intended line. The material/pattern alliance built into the new Flux putter, called DARtech, creates overspin at a consistent launch angle in a uniform direction. DARtech offers the ability to control spin for more favorable repeatable outcomes. Then there’s Flux's FloW8 twist resist technology — 10 grams of 303 stainless were yanked and replaced with 30 grams of Tungsten...all in the toe. The redistributed weight resists twisting at contact, especially off-center strikes, and reacts as though it has a much higher MOI. This promotes an unencumbered stroke release on a consistent path regardless of player's arch or distance to the target. Finally, Flux's counter balanced grip is refined to optimize the player's swing path. The putter is available this spring in black or brushed stainless with a polymer or stainless steel face insert.

www.fluxgolf.com

Game Golf Pro

While the original Game Golf tracking system is still available with its belt-attached sensor, the Game Golf Pro is a godsend for folks who just can’t seem to incorporate that belt-tap into their pre-shot routines. Instead it uses a stand-alone sensor that communicates via BlueTooth to new, smaller grip-mounted sensors dialed into each club in the bag via a smartphone app. Also, the new system filters out practice swings, second shots, third shots — any shot that isn’t the real one. In other words, you don’t have to go back and edit. And if you don’t want to use the app in real time but would rather save your stat analysis for after the round, the “home” sensor compiles all info for download later, which, a company rep says, “eliminates a pain point.” But there are advantages to using the app during play — it has a great, detailed rangefinder, it syncs with the Apple Watch, and the GPS data comes from the sensor so it’s not draining the phone battery. Those are the three big hardware improvements. You can also subscribe to a new smart caddie system for $4.99/month; it offers club recommendations, course strategy based on shot history, elevation numbers, weather reports and more. It all rolls out on April 15.

www.gamegolf.com

Golf Pride Align Grip

Coupling a popular grip from yesteryear with modern materials, Tour Velvet – the most played grip model on the PGA Tour – introduces “Align Technology,’’ which it first introduced in the flagship MCC and MCC Plus4 grip families last year. Align features a dedicated raised ridge that extends down the back of the grip consistent hand placement that allows a golfer increased clubface awareness throughout the swing and at impact. Align Technology also features a micro-diamond texture and firmer material compared to the surrounding grip area to amplify its pronounced feel. A flex channel separates the Align Technology ridge from the grip body to maximize elevation lift and lock the grip into the fingers, while conforming to the Rules of Golf.

www.golfpride.com

Indi Golf StingRay Wedge

Rob Lang has worked in the golf club industry for years, gaining expertise especially in the wedge design game. So he decided to put his chops into his own “StingRay” wedges — one square-grooved and non-conforming to USGA rules, making it perfect for the casual player, and the conforming “TT” or Tournament model. Both offer increased spin, optimized launch and improved control thanks to grooves that run the entire length of the face, what Lang calls an “aggressive sand blast finish” and a “ScoopBack” design that optimized face thickness in every section across the head, so even off-center strikes produce wicked spin. There’s more thickness higher on the face, for instance — a spot many amateurs tend to hit the ball. The wedges’ weighting stabilizes the head at impact to fight twisting.

www.indigolfclubs.com

K Motion

Building on the success of the original K-Vest and technology that dates back to 2002, K-Motion — which encompasses the K-Coach and K-Player systems — takes one of the game’s most complete four-dimensional motion capture protocols to new, more data-rich level. The vest itself is lighter and thinner than ever, with additional sleeves for the arms and legs so players and teachers can view set-up and swing from every possible angle, including from above, and turn every motion into a target number so the student knows what moves to ingrain, which to avoid, and how to put it all together into a seamless, repeatable whole. K-Player 2.0, the company’s training-specific product for players, ensures a player practices the right movements for the right amount of time, regardless of whether they are with their instructor or alone. A coach sends a custom-tailored training program designed in K-Coach to the student’s K-Player, the player then downloads the program and begins practicing exactly what the coach designed. The seamless connection between coach and player extends the lesson tee, making it feel like an instructor is at every practice session. It’s a biofeedback bonanza for today’s number-driven techno-geeks, though old-school feel players will benefit, too.

www.k-vest.com

TaylorMade Spider Interactive Putter

We’ve been big BlastMotion fans since the grip-mounted putting rhythm sensing system made its first big splash last year, but this partnership with TaylorMade pushes it into and even bigger sphere of influence. The popular Spider mallet-headed model comes with a SuperStroke grip pre-fitted with the Blast Motion sensor, which in turn captures every stroke and sends it to the Blast app on iPhone or Android. Spider Interactive measures key putting stroke metrics including timing (backstroke time, forward stroke time, tempo), impact stroke speed and face rotation. Users will be able to easily analyze details of their putting stroke and track progress over time with performance history and interactive graphs, along with tiered training modules and drills to help improve putting. The app will also feature video recording and playback capabilities so users can review and analyze their strokes. YouTube golf instructional personalities Me & My Golf will have tips and tutorial videos on the app for further developmental content. The system is available March 23.

www.tayormadegolf.com

Tour Edge Exotics CBX Hybrids

Tour Edge is adding three new lofts to its popular Exotics CBX Hybrid line — 17° 19°, 22°, giving it six altogether. Six different loft options makes the Exotics CBX the most extensive hybrid line available with more lofts available than any other manufacturer that has hybrids in play on the professional tours. Several players on the PGA Champions Tour, in particular, are putting these clubs into play. This unprecedented range in hybrid lofts provides a loft for every possible distance scenario and also provides the golfer the ability to expertly choose the best gaps for shots off the tee and/or shots from the fairway or rough. Along with their first-ever titanium face, stainless steel body and carbon fiber sole configuration, the new CBX line includes the company’s TrueLoft System. Through extra quality control methods in the bending process of unfinished heads, plus a triple-check on loft and lie in the final stages of the club head making process, Tour Edge is committed to making sure that each club head fits the exact loft that is listed on the club head.

www.touredge.com

TPT Shafts

Based in Switzerland, TPT has carved out its own niche with a combination of materials and by-hand winding processes that yield batches of shafts with the same frequency, controlling the finishing process to within one micron. It’s incredibly precise. “We can reduce torque, stiffen the tip, soften the tip,” says Jeff Meyer, technical director. “We have infinite design opportunities. We only use authorized fitters so we make sure that every golfer is fit with the right product. And the automation process that we’re currently putting into action makes sure we’re that much more dialed in.” TPT also employs a proprietary numbering system to denote its flexes — from 15 (heavier) to 19 (heavier), with lower and higher kick points corresponding to each number. This gives fitters the widest possible parameters to fitting every club to every player, right through the bag. Those with high clubhead speed often go with the lighter, higher kickpoint shaft, while slower swingers somehow find their way to the heavier shafts. David Leadbetter is a big fan and helps get the word out through his golf schools.

www.tptgolf.com

2Undr Briefs

If you want to get the true measure of a man, look into his underwear … or at least what brand he’s sporting when he hits the first tee. Comfort, breathability and support will all be high on his list. The skivvies of 2Undr — a Canadian company whose name is not a variation on the Aussie phrase, but rather from the motocross community, whose common credo is keeping “two wheels under” you at all times — check off each of those boxes in a big way. Their three-inch trunk, six-inch boxer brief and nine-inch long leg inseam fits come in a half dozen styles depending on fabric mix, with the lenzing-modal fabric mix in Swingshift and the lenzing-modal-cotton Dayshift leading the way, followed by “Nightshift,” “Gearshift,” “Powershift” and “Longjohn” styles made from nylon, poly or bamboo cotton. All include what’s called the Joey Pouch, which lends extra support to a guy’s “most valuable assets” while eliminating the skin contact that leads to chafing, as well as the No Drip Tip thjat wicks away moisture and lets the air in. Special “flatlocked” stitching and a roll-resistant waistbands just jack up the comfort level. The 2Undr family comes in dozens of colors and patterns, some of them downright inspired and often of the double-entendre variety, and their collection of official NCAA team colors is growing by the day. As is our, uh, enthusiasm for this fun and functional foundational garment.

www.2undr.com

Zero Friction Cabretta Elite Universal Fit Gloves

When they hit the golf equipment scene with their original golf balls and accessories a few years back, Zero Friction managed to carve out their own nifty brand niche, and they’ve been expanding it ever since. Take their new collection of multicolored grips, for instance — it’s a breath of fun, fresh and form-fitting air in an otherwise somewhat stodgey segment of the golf gear market. The leather Cabretta line boasts six bright shades for men, five for women, and each glove is built to last as well as conform snugly to every hand that comes its way. “It's going to expand and mold of the hand as you as you wear it; it’s not going to break down as easily,” says one Zero Friction rep. “The material on the back of glove allows it to breathe and not get crusty and hard, leading to longevity. And in golf shops, Instead of taking 20 minutes, judging the guy's hand size, you just say, what color can we get? And off you go.”

www.zerofriction.com

The post 18 Great Golf Products For 2018 appeared first on Golf Tips Magazine.

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[universeinform-blog]

Affinity towards sports branding is moving upwards

New Post has been published on https://universeinform.com/2017/03/27/affinity-towards-sports-branding-is-moving-upwards/

Affinity towards sports branding is moving upwards

A brand new generation begins now. With Puma.” Remaining month, Virat Kohli despatched the marketplace into a frenzy via penning down a Rs 110-crore address global sports activities lifestyle logo Puma. With the landmark declaration, Kohli became the primary Indian sportsperson to head past the Rs 100-crore mark as regards an address an unmarried emblem.

The settlement not most effective signified the ever-growing stature of the Indian captain however also the growing interest of manufacturers in getting related to sports. Within the last few years, the market has seen an

Exponential upward push in sports sponsorship where brands have harnessed sports as a success medium for conversation approximately the brands. One such emblem which has jumped on the carrying bandwagon is home-grown garb logo Spykar. The denim predominant determined to have interaction with the Indian Greatest League with the aid of investing Rs 20 crore on a two-

Season sponsorship address new franchise Growing Pune Supergiants, Final yr. The first post sat down with Sanjay Vakharia, COO Spykar way of life Pvt Ltd, to recognize why the sport is turning into the first select for main brands and the ingredients of logo game relationship. FP: What made Spykar get into cricket?

Sanjay Vakharia: Spyker addresses the ever dynamic Indian children market, and cricket is all about displaying expertise and attaining out to enthusiastic audiences, that’s wherein the basis of the affiliation lies. IPL is one of the few carrying occasions, which cuts throughout the whole spectrum of cities and towns and resonates properly with each woman and men.

With the extensive attain this sports offers and considering we are strengthening our base in a tier and three cities as properly — this turned into the proper tie up.

FP: What elements are taken into account through an emblem even as selecting an athlete/crew?

Sanjay Vakharia: The team must fit the spirit and ethos of the brand.

FP: Why did Spykar pick out Growing Pune Supergiants?

Sanjay: A group mix of younger, enthusiastic, skilled players resonates properly with Spykar.

Does a logo determine to make investments taking into account few famous person points of interest Within the group or is it the general stature of the team that matters?

Sanjay: It’s the overall crew mix.

FP: Is two months of high-octane cricket an overdose? Studies indicate that customers see this as an overkill, did you are taking these items into consideration at the same time as identifying?

Sanjay: Cricket is evergreen in India, the fan following is monstrous, the excitement stakes are high. No matter the reviews that keep floating, the 2 months will be as a great deal fun and as nail-biting as they should be. And we’re sure the Growing Pune Supergiants team will come returned strongly and display that they’re as strong on the pitch as on paper.

Over Coming the Fear of Moving

The worry of relocating is a real and devastating trouble for some people. The tension of transferring to a brand new country, town or even a brand new house can be overwhelming to a few.

As tough as it might be to consider, there are tens of thousands of individuals who suffer from The fear of moving, or Tropophobia as it’s miles referred to as. it’s miles a very actual, diagnosable disease that if left unchecked could have devastating consequences for those that suffer.

Tropophobia is known by way of a number of names consisting of the maximum commonplace ones inclusive of Worry of transferring, and Worry of making Changes. To those that have never killed any kind of moving anxiety it might be difficult to recognize precisely how debilitating this disorder may be. For people who have at least been barely traumatic approximately moving to a brand new area, it would be a piece simpler to understand how a disorder including Tropophobia can be so debilitating, how it can have the sort of massive effect on first-rate of lifestyles for people who go through.

some people live inside the identical kingdom, the identical metropolis, even the identical house their entire lifestyles and by no means consider or have wanted to even recollect transferring to a new location. Their lives are well rounded and properly adjusted to their particular surroundings and they lead glad full lives. However, there are those so that it will live with a Fear, a Fear of alternate, a Worry that continues them trapped within the identical house, the same town, the identical kingdom, for years or even a lifetime.

Studies have discovered, especially in larger metropolitan regions including New york and Los Angelis that humans stay their entire lifestyles in the same residence, in no way venturing out of doors a mentally determined secure sector. Be that a borough area together with Brooklyn NY, or a community within that vicinity. Tales maintains to surface approximately folks that understand little approximately the world around them due to the fact they are afflicted by intense Tropophobia.

Winter Sports Vs Summer Sports

Wintry weather sports activities Vs summer time sports, who will win? As you can already realize seasons require distinct forms of sports for the more youthful and older era. It, in reality, depends on where in the nation, location and united states of American you live as well. The season and temperature require different styles of sports. Let’s see a few sports you can perform in each season.

Wintry weather sports:

A few classical Wintry weather sports are true, indoor swimming, gymnastic, basketball, ice hockey, and indoor tennis. Those sports can be done at any given season, no matter whether or not it’s miles bloodless or not. Human beings like indoor sports during the colder season because it virtually allows them to live in shape and in form at some stage for the complete year. a few People have a tendency to most effective do sports activities in the summer time which results in a balanced lifestyle and fitness. In case you want to become a success within the regions of fitness, career, and sports activities you absolutely need to do Wintry weather sports as properly.

summer season sports activities:

Humans mean there are greater summer season sports than Iciness sports activities, so what is true? nicely in summer, you have got the possibility to stand many outside activities together with soccer, basketball, road hockey, beach activities, water sports activities, tennis going for walks, hiking, mountaineering etc. There are in all likelihood as many opportunities in summer season as there are in Winter. The best distinction is that we humans have a tendency to be lazy when it is cold out of doors. summer season sports activities help us to stay in form and enjoy the sunny days during the warmer and warmer season. There are distinctive varieties of sports you can perform which are single player and multiplayer. Gambling soccer, basketball, and street hockey call for as a minimum 2 players, higher greater. The fun and entertainment component is a couple of instances better If you play along with your buddies, circle of relatives and other People you do realize. Doing sports activities by myself is ordinarily dull and no longer suitable. But, sports activities such as going for walks and swimming can be carried out by using one person and do not require a second person.

Islamic Approach Towards Science

Technology the informed and implemented interest surrounding the systematic look at of the development and performance of the corporeal and herbal world thru mirrored image and studies. Islam is the inspiration of Technological know-how.

Mankind is at the edge of the 21st century in rapports of the common length. This period is efficiently called the fabric age with computer systems, microelectronic mail and enterprise and E-trade and the Net with Web pages. To many thinkers, faith is unknown to Science. Technology certainly approaches a selected department of expertise. In Arabic, it’s far referred to as Training. A scientist in Arabic is known as a Schooling. The west is inaccurate in unraveling Technology from religion. The extremely good whole Muslim scientists approximately thousand years in the past had been at the leading edge of know-how in particular within the sciences and generation without ever giving up their faith. In fact, Islam in fashionable and the Qur’an, in particular, enthused the Muslim scientists to searching for and increase information. For this reason, they attained all these with none battle with faith.

There may be no human work in presence that covers statements as far beyond the level of expertise of its time as the Qur’an. Medical sentiments just like those inside the Qur’an are the result of the modern-day records. in the factors to translations of the Qur’an that have seemed in European tongues, we are best been capable of discovering dispensed and uncertain orientations to them. Nor do newshounds writing in Arabic offer a whole have a look at of the capabilities of the Qur’an that deal with Scientific materials.

While assessing entitlements of terrific Medical records in uncovered scriptures consisting of the Quran and Islam it is essential to remember the pronouncement, incredible claims call for exceptional evidence. For undoubtedly, wonders are not to be taken gently. If miracles absolutely are the outcomes of direct interference by means of God, and in the event that they truly are destined as symbols to demonstrate each his/her/their being and energy, SO we have to anticipate them to serve the ones drives in a clear and unmistakable manner. If God goes finished all that hassle to supply us with signs, it’d overthrow his purpose of creating the signs and symptoms tough to