"One thing you will unfortunately have to combat," Iroh says, slowly walking a meandering path around a pond, Aang walking beside him, the both of them moving at a similar steady pace. "Is that far too many people of the age believe that the will to harm, and ruthlessness as a whole, is a sign of maturity."

Aang sighs, tilting his head up towards the stars. His expression is solemn, his face young, and his eyes unbelievably old. There is wisdom there; wisdom from a century ago, and echoes of wisdom even older than that, going all the way back to the foundation of the world.

The wisdom of the Avatar is something built from pain. The pain of past lives, the pain of countless generations that will not learn or are made to forget, the pain that comes from a thousand sources. The world is locked into an endless cycle, he thinks, and that cycle turns on pain.

"I think too many of the world's problems today," Aang says, in the soft and steady tones of one who is stating a fact that he ill likes, but does not ignore. "Is that people keep saying things like 'harmony and spirituality don't matter, all that matters is that we do whatever it takes to get what we want'."

"Indeed." Iroh stops, turning and looking at the water. His eyes seem younger than the Avatar's. For a moment, they almost glow with dragon-flame, or a mirror to the sun. It's a different sort of fire than that burning in most of his countrymen these days.

"I'd guess Sozin thought something like that, back before I went into the ice," Aang says.

The grandson of Sozin nods somberly. "It's one of the great illusions we see in these days," Iroh suggests. Something in tone implies that he may be thinking out loud; wondering, pondering, guessing at things that he cannot definitely say for sure. Pain, and uncertainty; that is the hallmark of the world today. "Thinking that because you are a different one from your enemy, that doing the same things as them doesn't carry a risk of repeating the harm they bring, because its you doing it, not them."

Aang nods. He is silent, for a time, and then he speaks. His words bear the weight of a great distance, and Iroh knows that he has made some kind of a connection, or an old fear. "Do you know the death toll of the Fire Nation navy at the battle of the Nothern Water Tribe?"

"Yes." Iroh gives Aang a concerned side glance. "Do you?"

Aang breathes in deeply. He looks down, calmly, at his hands, and his expression is tired, and looks older than he should.

It was not his will that happened there. He was the channel, that was all. Through him, the Ocean Spirit did as it willed, as was its right.

Nonetheless, it was his hands that had carried the deed. It was hard, to remember it, to accept it.

"Yes," the Avatar says simply.

Iroh is silent, and waits for the Avatar to speak.

When he does, he gives a heavy sigh. Aang continues, "I know that in the future, people are probably going to write about the... the Ocean Spirit being wrong. That it was vicious, or cruel, or that it might have attacked the Water Tribe too if things had been just a little different. Judging the Ocean by human attitudes, by the way humans have to be."

"And what do you think?" Iroh asks.

"That the Ocean Spirit isn't human," Aang says. "That the spiritual rightness of humans doesn't apply to the Ocean. Something like... our ways are not their ways. And in any event, things like how abstaining from the slaying of another liberates people from the ties of the world, or the flow of pain in the world... I don't think that CAN apply to spirits, at least not the world-defining ones like the Ocean. They are what they are. Their natures are tied TO how they are a part of the world. It's not really about making a moral decision for the Ocean Spirit. It's simply doing what it does."

"And as humans, it is our duty to seek harmony with the spirits, and the nations of humanity," Iroh says, stroking his beard; he strikes the image of an old master, and together with Aang he looks the part of a master and pupil. And yet, it is the reverse; there is so much he does not know, and that Aang does. He is the student, and the young man the teacher. "If the Fire Navy had not attacked with intent of conquest, they would have lived, and the Ocean Spirit would have no need to take retribution."

There was a certain way to things; if one wronged a spirit, it had to take retribution. It was like a pendulum; if you pulled it far enough back and let go, it would have to swing the other way just as far. It was simply the shape of the world. It was human error to attribute human morality to gravity moving the way it did. And it was greater human error to expect the most ancient and mighty spirits to abide by flawed human belief that the nations were fundamentally separate.

Aang's expression was solemn. For a moment, a thousand lifetimes of understanding shone forth, and beyond that there was an intelligence far older than that; the world itself in human form, regarding itself.

It was a look of sorrow. Sometimes that was the only response to human foolishness.

Hello, dearest Nemo. Inspired by a matter you're probably aware of, here I come, to ask you for certain opinion, although perhaps in form of HeadCanons... Let's say we have Ghibli Movies and the Warlords. Which movie would be each warlord's favourite? What do you think?

Ooooh, lil'Lorei remembers my obsession with Studio Ghibli movies, I see. (. ❛ ᴗ ❛.)(. ❛ ᴗ ❛.)(. ❛ ᴗ ❛.)

Fandom: Ikemen Sengoku 

Characters: All - Kanetsugu because idk I can’t find shit on him only that he is a tsun.

Prompt: The warlords and studio Ghibli movies. Disclaimer: I only listed the movies I have watched, which is a fair amount but by no means all. 

To sit on the couch with a Sengoku warlord felt strange. No, it was definitely weird! All the more so when you put up a Studio Ghibli movie. Just any, because you felt like it. Little did you know that the warlord would take so well to it. He had been rather apprehensive at first, after all, moving pictures and that strange sound? But after a while the movies won him over. After all, who could resist the peaceful charm of Studio Ghibli, dreaming away at the romance of everyday life set in a beautiful landscape far away from all worry and chaos?

Nobunaga Oda: Spirited away

“The soot sprites have good taste,” the Oda leader pronounced, a proud smile etched on his face as he enjoyed the movie playing. On the screen the little black balls could be seen carrying off the konpeito, dancing around the little girl that had just lost her name to Yubaba, a move that Nobunaga had heartily laughed at. “I should consider doing this myself,” he had exclaimed, eyes glistening in mischief, “but I would rename them,” and to this remark you could only feel yourself sweatdrop, recalling the animal-inspired nicknames he tended to give his vassals.

Ieyasu Tokugawa: When Marnie was there

Something about the movie triggered something within him. The themes of loneliness, and constantly being moved around, but most of all, the trope of a found family and the concept of home. They resonated with his own childhood that he had resented so much. The past in which he was treated kindly, but also at times cruelly. All of these stories consolidated into one movie and two girls. “Marnie was weak,” he would later say, “good for Anna,” was his end review, but you could see the tears in the corner of his eyes. The movie had touched him.

Hideyoshi Toyotomi: Tales from Earthsea

A story of guilt and servitude? Prince Arren and the shadow that chases him? An inner fear, but yet a strong resolve to sacrifice all to reach ones goal? Hideyoshi is sold. The promise in the end is what gives that extra edge needed as Hideyoshi is weeping at the end of it all. “I will return to you, lord Nobunaga. I will repay all of my sins!” he wails and you know that he means it. Strangely enough, you have a feeling that Nobunaga would like the concept of ‘True Name’

Masamune Date: The wind rises

The story of a young boy whose dreams are shattered because of his weaknesses and then overcoming them? That’s his boy! Masamune has been cheering Jiro on since the opening of the movie and never stopped. Not until halfway through the movie and a frown settles on his face until the man has to gulp audibly to keep himself in check. All that chasing after a dream and the sacrifices made. It definitely hits a snare with the man who is quiet after the movie. He will need a cuddle or two.

Mitsuhide Akechi: Kiki’s delivery service

“There is just something about watching a little mouse grow up, isn’t there?” Mitsuhide teases with that lilting smile of his ever-present. But between the affectionate nickname and watching the movie there is something wistful about the man who sees the peaceful coming-of-age and finding identity and inspiration for live and passion within the little girl on her broom. He doesn’t say it, but he hopes that children in the future can grow up in such peace as Kiki does, able to adventure and a home to return to.

Kyubei: Whisper of the heart

Two kids chasing after their dreams, one set and the other just learning about it and a very capable cat that guides them. Kyubei enjoys the relationship that develops and the romance that comes with it, finding the fantasy element adorable. “I have a favourite person as well,” he tells you later with a mystifying smile, referring to the poster advertising the movie. A favourite person and a dream, he realises, which he hadn’t before.

Mitsunari Ishida: The secret world of Arrietty

“How very inventive!” the man constantly exclaims as he watches the little Arrietty move around in the garden. When she is fighting off bugs her own size Mitsunari clasps his hands together, as he rattles off on the many efficiencies they can make use of the bugs and employ the garden and the doll house. In the end Mitsunari feels only a little sad about Arrietty’s departure, though he has all faith that the friends will meet again, “is there a sequel,” he asks you for that, eager and beaming.

Keiji Maeda: Howl’s moving castle

Of course Howl’s theatrical ways are what enraptured the man at first, accompanied with Sophie’s determination and go-getters attitude. “That is no dull woman!” he exclaims happily as he watches the older sister fall to the curse cast by the witch. And though it is only vaguely implied Keiji comes to understand that it was something about the heart, just as Howl transforms because of his own heart. ‘A heart is a heavy burden.’ Sophie’s line catches him and Keiji agrees that Sophie’s hair is like starlight. He turns to you, however and tells you that you’re his starlight.

Ranmaru Mori: The cat returns

The cats, Baron the gentleman cat that just looks super cook and a whole slew of shenanigans about to happen. Secretly Ranmaru sees Kennyo in Baron, dreaming away watching his master be the cool hero that he was always meant to be. A little mysterious, totally awesome and can kick ass. Yes, that’s his favourite person!

Kennyo: My neighbour Totoro

There is something homely about the strange giant figure with its creepy smile and silent gestures. In fact, the whole movie endears the man. Two girls surrounded by the beauty of nature, growing up in peace and afraid of soot, catbus riding them to their mother. Kennyo can’t help but smile at the outrageousness of it all, finding it all very endearing. Secretly he thinks himself as Totoro, hiding in the forests and watching over the innocents.

Kenshin Uesugi: Princess Mononoke

A story about rulership, about how humanity ruins life eventually, about destruction and a lot of fighting. Kenshin loves it, especially for the last part. But as a former monk himself with a good appreciation for the gods and nature Kenshin relates to lady Eboshi who is willing to fight all if it means keeping her people safe and San, who fights to protect what she holds dear. He understands that and he relates to that.

Shingen Takeda: The tale of the princess Kaguya

A classic he is familiar with turned into an animation he has never experienced! Shingen loves it. Though he has to admit that he likes the story versions better he has a good appreciation for the artistry and the interpretation of the story, along with the pain of forgetting and leaving.

Yukimura Sanada: Porco Rosso

His favourite nickname turned into a character! Yukimura was flabbergasted at first, but then he came to understand that this was a spell of sorts, just as the movie itself was a trick of magic called science. But alas, that’s not why Yukimura was so in awe with the movie, it was the cool zeal in which the main character flies for his convictions. And somewhere deep down, though he will never admit such, the main character reminds him of Shingen.

Sasuke Sarutobi: Grave of the fireflies

Ah, the classic on which a whole generation was cruelly introduced to Studio Ghibli’s magic, the movie that started it all and above all: made everyone cry. Some may find him a bit of a weirdo to choose this as his favourite movie, after all it is such a sad movie. But it is the history, the message behind it, the themes dealt with and at last the pain and love of the siblings bereft by war. Sasuke’s heart is beaming just at the thought of the entire movie as his eyes start to tear up, dryly.

Kichou: Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind

There is no movie that quite agrees with him that the world is set out for doom than Nausicaä. The world is destroyed by humanity in a war, humans are still at war, but not only amongst each other for their greed but also with nature. Nature is trying to kill them for the sins committed by man. It all comes together and shows how the blight of this world truly is men and how the future that you come from is just an illusionary peace.

Yoshimoto Imagawa: Ocean Waves

Modern life poured into an artistic expression of young love. There is nothing quite more artistic than that in Yoshimoto’s opinion. The art is pretty, the story is enjoyable and not too riddled with all ugly traits and reminders of chaos and war and he gets to observe the modern world and its beauty a little more. Yes, Yoshimoto is indeed trying to forget about all the ugliness back in the Sengoku.

Motonari Mouri: Castle in the sky

Sky pirates, raiding a precious city, chaos overall and a booming ending? Sign him up. Motonari doesn’t really care for the main characters, finding them too sweet and innocent, but he has noticed that this is an overall trend within Studio Ghibli movies. Do, tell him more about the sky pirates, however and he definitely needs one of those flying machines.

A Dive Into the Past Could be the Key to a Better Future for the LGBTQ and You.

Have you noticed that being gay (or bi or transgender or asexual) seems to have become a recent trend? And by recent, I mean the last 50 years or so. As of 2016, one in four Americans identifies as LGBTQ. There are early examples of LGBT history of course, but now it seems that being gay has become a sort of pop culture fad. At least, that’s what a lot of people seem to think! But this so called ‘fad’ had been around since the dawn of man. Every country and every culture in the world has a history of same-sex relationships and intersexual (transgender) people. The first recorded history of same sex relationships was found in cave drawings in Sicily; they were believed to have been painted between 9,600-5,000 BCE. Attitude towards same-sex relationships and transgender people has changed a ton throughout history. First it was accepted, became quite common and even somewhat expected (like in Ancient Greece), was labeled a sin but not really punished, then was severely punished as the Catholic Church’s influence grew, then it was illegal (still is in many countries), labeled as mental illness, and now, in 2019, is legal in 28 countries.

It might seem like a simple straight line got us to this point, but it wasn’t simple at all. There were hardships endured and many sacrifices that have gotten us here. Our community is just like any other minority group. We’ve been fighting for peace and acceptance. I’ve traced out our history to create a better understanding how these people lived and how their influence has gotten us to this day and age.  

I’m going to skip through the earlier history and start our timeline in Ancient Greece. Greece is a fantastic historical example of widely accepted homosexual relationships. The commonness of these relationships is actually why olive oil became so popular. These relationships didn’t replace marriage between men and women but typically occurred before or in concurrence with it. Relationships were not viewed as between men and women but rather as between the ‘dominant’ and ‘passive’(Livius). Sapho, a poet born on the island of Lesbos, wrote poetry centered around love and passion for both genders. She inspired the term ‘lesbian’ that was adopted in the 19th century.

Our next stop is in the 1400s: Joan of Arc. You might know the story. Surely you recognize the name. Joan of Arc was a French girl who went form peasant to Catholic Saint. She claimed to have heard the voices of saints, who commanded her to find Prince Charles and help him ascend the throne during a war between the French and English. Joan cut her hair short and dressed as a man when she went to find Charles and later when she led his armies into battle. Charles even commissioned a custom-made suit of armor for her. The English captured Joan and eventually she was burned at the stake for heresy and cross dressing (Bie). 

Though it’s a controversial claim, The LGBT community has claimed Joan as a transgender icon. She was the who came up with the idea to dress as a man; she continued to do so throughout her life, even in public. Joan risked her life and her freedom to continue dressing as a man. Some say she was simply following God’s command. But her stories reflect experiences of other transgender people who also risked their lives to live as the gender that they identified with.

Speaking of the Catholic Church: they weren’t always sticklers about homosexual relationships. In fact, it was quite common for priests, bishops and senior clerics to be gay in the 1500s (McClain). Sodomy was grouped in with the ‘lustful’ sins and was rarely punished. The Renaissance brought about a stricter rule from Rome and the Pope. Homosexual relationships went form legal and overlooked to punishable for both men and women by mutilation and death in most European countries.

Let’s cross the ocean to the Americas. Before the Europeans started colonizing the Americas, ‘Two-Spirit’ people were quite common among the different tribes of indigenous people. This blanket term referred to gender identity rather than sexual identity. Traditionally, the term Two-Spirit people were made up of men, women, and intersex who took on the traditional roles and responsibilities of both men and women. Among the Navajo tribes, Two-Spirit men would become weaver’s, traditionally a woman’s role. Two-Spirit women would often take up hunting, engage in warfare, and could even become leaders or chiefs (Two-Spirit Health Resources). This became a common third gender. Colonization forced these tribes to conform to white societal expectations. Two-Spirit people were particularly vulnerable, often the subject of violence and punishment. Their practices were all but eradicated to preserve their lives. The recognition and tradition of the Two-Spirits are practiced today among many of remaining Native American tribes.

When the American Colonies started to establish their own government, they modeled many of their laws after Great Britain’s laws, including those concerning sodomy. Death was one of the punishments, but the laws were rarely enforced. In 1786, Pennsylvania repealed the death penalty for sodomy and soon after a majority of the colonies followed suit.

In the 1790s, psychology became a wider field of study. The term ‘homosexuality’ was coined, and it was finally being addressed outside of church condemnation. Some believed that homosexuality was congeniality based, while others diagnosed it as a symptom of psychosis. In 1791, after the French revolution, France became the first country to decriminalize sodomy. A small but mighty steppingstone towards LGBT+ acceptance.

The 1800s saw New York become a hub for LGBT culture in America, though sodomy was still illegal. There was a higher visibility of alternative genders and same-sex relationships; many men got away with it by passing it off as a ‘loving male friendship.’  The American Civil War, like many other wars, saw a number of women who enlisted in the army as men. Jennie Hodgers was one such woman. She immigrated to America from Ireland, changing her identity to Albert Cashier along the way. Cashier was a brave soldier, fighting in over 40 battles. After the war ended, Cashier decided to continue living as a man. An accident led to the discovery that Cashier was born as a woman. He had to fight in court to retain his army pension. He won but was then committed to a mental asylum where he was forced to dress and live as a woman until his death in 1915 (16 Transgender Historical Figures). Poor Albert would use safety pins to fashion his skirts into pants. His story sounds incredibly to Joan of Arc’s life. One immortalized, praised and worshiped for the exact same actions that deemed the other mentally ill. Makes you think, doesn’t it?

The late 1800’s to the 1930’s saw quite a shift in perspective and gay culture. Berlin, Germany became the gay hub towards the end of the 19th century. Berlin was a liberal city, with gay bars, nightclubs, and cabarets. It had the most active LGBT rights movement at the time (Daily Mail). The Scientific-Humanitarian Committee was founded to fight against the laws that made sex between men illegal, as well as recognition of transgender men and women. It was the first public gay rights organization and became the first international LGBT organization after establishing branches in other countries. In 1908, Edward Stevenson published a book called The Intersexes: A Study in Similisexualism as a Problem in Social Life under a pseudonym. It was the first book that openly dealt with all aspects of homosexuality. The 1920’s brought about a wider (but short lived) acceptance of minorities and gays in the US. In 1922, the first gay demonstration was held in Berlin.

Even though gay marriage was illegal in the 1930’s, there were still a ton of gay and lesbian weddings that occurred in secret across the United States. They could get away with it by passing of their spouse as roommates or ‘close friends’. Women had an easier time with this than men did.

Meanwhile in Berlin, who had previously enjoyed an unprecedented freedom, were forced back into hiding when Adolf Hilter took over. Over 50,000 men (including bisexual and transgender men) were sentenced for being gay; thousands died in concentration camps. Female same-sex relationships weren’t illegal and therefore very few were imprisoned for their sexuality.

When the US joined WWII, over 250,000 women joined the military, most in the Women’s Army Corp. A ton of lesbians joined to meet women and those that had more masculine features were overlooked because they were able to take on the harder jobs typically filled by men. General Eisenhower was quite aware of the number of lesbians in the army. He went his secretary, Johnnie Phelps, and told her that they needed to be rooted out. Phelps replied, "If the General pleases, sir, I'll be happy to do that, but the first name on the list will be mine… and if you want to replace all the file clerks, section commanders, drivers, every woman in the WAC detachment, I will be happy to make that list.”(Knaff). Eisenhower withdrew the idea and didn’t bring it up again.

The Civil Rights movement was in full swing by the early 1960′s. It was a fight for equality for African Americans but indirectly became the push for equality in other minorities, including the LGBT community. It set up the gay liberation movement that dominated the 1970′s.

In 1961, Illinois became the first state to decriminalize sodomy; it was still illegal everywhere else though. Gays found safe refuge in bars and clubs, where they were safe to express themselves. These places were constantly raided by the police; first because of a New York law that banned serving alcohol to LGBT individuals and also to catch them engaging in any homosexual acts (even something as innocent as holding hands). In 1969, police raided Stonewall Inn, which sparked a riot among patrons and neighbors because of the rough mishandling of those being arrested (history.com). It was a 6-day long uprising, a monumental movement in LGBT history and the final push towards the gay liberation movement. Twenty states decriminalized sodomy during the 1970s.

The AIDS epidemic was a defining part of the 1980’s. Gay men made up the majority of those with the disease. They were accused of being carriers for the ‘Gay Plague.’ This created a huge stigma around the infected, which in turn created a stigma around gay men. People were afraid to touch anyone or even be around anyone who was infected for fear of catching it themselves. Around 74.9 million people have been infected since the first diagnosis (UNAIDS). Although the death toll is decreased significantly, the LGBT community still suffered a great loss and deals with constant discrimination. Did you know that gay and bisexual men are not allowed to donate blood or plasma solely based on the fact that they’re gay, even if they test negative for HIV and AIDS? Because there are no laws against discrimination, gay, bisexual, and transgender women can be turned away from housing, job opportunities, etc. Transgender women are often resort to prostitution to make ends meet. This, in turn, increases the spread of HIV. There is also a lot of social pressure around getting tested or treated for HIV so a significant number of people remain undiagnosed for fear of harassment.  

After a few more states repealed their sodomy laws, activists started pushing back against the Supreme Court’s ruling, stating that these laws were in violation of the federal constitution. Lawrence v Texas was the turning point for the decriminalization of sodomy. Texas police entered the home of John Lawrence on a flimsy excuse and caught him having consensual sex with Tyron Gardner. The precedent by Bower v Hardwick was overturned and the Supreme Court ruled that state laws banning homosexual relations was an unconstitutional violation of privacy (Urofsky). In 2003, all Sodomy laws were officially eradicated in the US.

In 2001, the Netherlands became the first country to legalize same sex marriage. Over the past 18 years, 28 countries, including the United States in 2015, have legalized same sex marriage. This also allowed same sex couples to participate in joint adoption (when previously, couples couldn’t hold joint custody over a child) This has been a huge stride! We’ve been building to this for years and years.

Now we’ve finally reached modern times! Though there have been ups and downs, we’ve still made incredibly strides in the past 50 years. But, we’re not quite there yet. The Equality Act was presented to Congress in March 2019. “[It] would provide consistent and explicit non-discrimination protections for LGBTQ people across key areas of life, including employment, housing, credit, education, public spaces and services, federally funded programs, and jury service.” Achieving this would be as groundbreaking as the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

In January 2019, South Carolina applied for and was granted the right for agencies to deny adoption or fostering rights for same sex couples. A heart wrenching step backwards (Considering Adoption).

The trajectory for LBGT rights has not been and never will be a straight line. Same sex couples are granted the right to marry and adopt in 2015 but those rights are taken away in South Carolina just 4 years later. Transgender men and woman are legally allowed to change their gender on their identification forms. A gay club was the target of a mass shooting that killed 49 people. Colleges are installing gender neutral bathrooms, but people feel threatened when transgender men and women use them.

Passing the Equality Act would mean that bakeries can’t refuse to make a cake for a gay couple. This would be an infringement on the 2nd amendment: freedom of speech, freedom of religion, etc. You would need to address people by their preferred pronouns rather than their birth gender pronouns, even if you don’t agree with it. Transgender women (male to female) would be allowed to compete in women’s sports which could easily be considered an unfair advantage. You might not agree with the LGBT lifestyle or what we stand for. The thing is, I’m not asking you to agree.

 This war has been fought for thousands of years. Just like the fight for equality for all races. Just like the fight for equality between men and women. We simply want equal rights for us as well; the right to marry, the right to adopt, the right to live a normal life, the ‘American Dream’. We’re just like you! You don’t have to agree with who we have sex with but surely you can agree that it’s a fundamental right to get to marry whoever you want and raise a family; that we should be able to go to the bathroom in peace like a normal person; that we should be able to kiss our SO in public without someone posting a huge rant on Facebook complaining about gay PDA; that we should be able to work and not worry about risking our jobs by expressing ourselves.

Know this: We’re not going to give up. We’ve come to far, sacrificed too many to turn back. Join us in this fight for equality. Join us in the fight for basis human rights.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

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Burke, Monica. “7 Reasons Why the Equality Act Is Anything But.” The Heritage Foundation, The Heritage Foundation, https://www.heritage.org/gender/commentary/7-reasons-why-the-equality-act-anything.

Cherry, Kittredge. Joan of Arc: Cross-Dressing Warrior-Saint and LGBTQ Role Model. QSpirit, 30 May 2019, http://qspirit.net/joan-of-arc-cross-dressing-lgbtq/.

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McClain, Lisa. “A Thousand Years Ago, the Catholic Church Paid Little Attention to Homosexuality.” The Conversation, 31 Oct. 2019, https://theconversation.com/a-thousand-years-ago-the-catholic-church-paid-little-attention-to-homosexuality-112830.

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Urofsky, Melvin I. “Lawrence v. Texas.” Encyclopædia Britannica, Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., 19 June 2019, https://www.britannica.com/topic/Lawrence-v-Texas.

“What to Know About the History of Same-Sex Adoption.” Considering Adoption, ConsideringAdoption.com, https://consideringadoption.com/adopting/can-same-sex-couples-adopt/history-of-same-sex-adoption. 

Leo Will Never Know: Star Students (2/?)

In an alternate timeline, Yugi indirectly prevented the events of Arc-V from ever happening. But how could this small change have an impact on a few selected people? A spin-off of the Arc-V Aftermath series. Based on the hilarious comic by @justanotherotakuandartist​. Co-written with @violetganache42​.

A few days later, Michael and Ray went to a domed building to take their entrance exams and passed with flying colors. Upon heading to Duel Academy and Chancellor Sheppard introducing himself to the students, they learned what ranking they were based on the colors of their uniforms. Ray and Michael both got Obelisk Blue, much to her disappointment because now she has to wear a uniform that reminds her of Kaiba. They headed towards their dorms when they learned there are two dorms: one for boys and one for girls.

In the girls' dorm, as soon as Ray arrived in her room, she took off her uniform. It was a blue jacket that looked too much like one of the jackets Kaiba usually wears. She knew it was mandatory to wear it, but why would she wear something that reminds her of the one person who ruined her life?

She then had an idea on how she can still wear her uniform without having it to remind her of him. She searched all over her room for some bleach, scissors, and a sewing kit. Several minutes later, she discovered that the girls' dorm building had a laundromat, which was perfect for her to bleach her trench coat. She placed it in the washing machine and poured the chemical in to white it out and then in the dryer to clean it.

A couple hours later, she took it to a tailor room she stumbled upon earlier to readjust it to an appropriate length; while growing up on the streets, she learned how to sew so that she can make clothes for herself and Leo, so her skills will definitely come in handy. Using a nearby mannequin for reference, she placed the white jacket on it and measured where she believed it should stop, having settled on around the waist. She took a marker and lightly made a mark on the jacket as reference on where to cut; after removing it from the mannequin, she used a pair of scissors to cut the flared ends off.

The blue trimmings weren't affected by the beach, but it still help made the trench coat stand out, so she trimmed them off the now-detached ends. She aligned them on her work-in-progress jacket, and with careful and precise dedication, sewed them in place.

After spending so many hours working, Ray finally finished with her modified uniform, consisting of the white sleeveless jacket with blue trimmings, a blue miniskirt, and blue boots. As she spent her first year at Duel Academy, all the female Obelisk Blue students couldn't help but admire what she was wearing.

"Nice uniform," an Obelisk Blue student named Alexis Rhodes said. "Did you make that?"

"I sure did," Ray happily answered. "I couldn't stand wearing a typical uniform, so I had to make some adjustments."

"You have to show me what you did," Alexis happily said. "It looks more fashionable than these old jackets."

Later that day, Ray showed Alexis how she made her custom uniform, who was given permission to use the latter's trench coat as an example. She gave her the full tutorial, from bleaching it to cutting the ends off at the waist area to sewing the trimmings back on the newly-changed jacket. Several more hours later, Cyber Angel/Girl user was astonished with the results, commenting on how it made her appear more feminine.

"Not bad," Alexis commented, checking out her reflection in a mirror. "This uniform is more fitting."

"Thanks," Ray said. "I had to learn how to sew clothing, so I know how to modify outfits."

"Well it does look amazing," Alexis said. "Is it alright if I tell some of my friends about this?"

"Sure," Ray answered.

That same night, Alexis informed her friends, Jasmine Makurada and Mindy Hamaguchi, about the modified uniform she was shown how to make. Pretty soon, after learning how to do it themselves, it became a widespread trend among the female students all over the school. Even the faculty and the non-Obelisk Blue students spotted and took note on the different jackets that have quickly become popular.

"Wow Ray," Michael said during lunch. "A lot of students really like your modified uniform style."

"Thanks," Ray said. "Although I didn't think it would become a trend. I originally didn't want to wear something that reminds me of Kaiba."

"Well you better get used to the trend," Michael said. "I heard there's a Slifer Red junior student who wants to wear that kind of uniform for his senior year."

Ray wasn't expecting a Slifer Red student to get inspired to wear a similar outfit to the ones going around campus. She asked what his name was and Michael said it was Chumley Huffington. It should be simple enough; since the non-Obelisk Blue jackets weren't as long as the old trench coats, all she's got to do is bleach it, with the trimmings still remaining red.

"I'm surprised the other students are interested in my custom uniforms," Ray remarked.

"It's not just the students," Michael clarified. "Nurse Fontaine likes the style too. You might have started this because of your past with KaibaCorp, but I think you unintentionally changed the uniform policy of this school."

The onion-haired teen was right. Due to the skyrocketing popularity of Ray's custom uniforms, Chancellor Sheppard made the official decision to have them implemented as part of the school's dress code; the students were also given the liberty to wear variations of their attires. Aside from this surprise, her and Michael's first year at Duel Academy went well.

Their second year had another group of students joining the current ones; they included Slifer Red students Jaden Yuki and Syrus Truesdale, Ra Yellow mathematician Bastion Misawa, and Obelisk Blue "elite Duelist" Chazz Princeton, who was initially selfish and egotistical. So far, not a lot happened to them, other than seeing the new students going on misadventures including the risk of expulsion, the Abandoned Dorm, Jaden and Syrus' tag team duel against the Paradox Brothers, an escaped dueling test monkey, the summoned spirit of Jinzo, a duel against Harrington Rosewood (captain of Duel Academy's tennis team) for Alexis' affection, a duel giant, a Tarzan-esque student named Damon, a copycat duelist who stole Yugi's deck and mimicked his mannerisms (much to Michael's embarrassment), a love-struck Zane Truesdale fan switching her feelings towards Jaden, and the school duel against North Academy. The second half, however, affected them more because a threat was looming over Duel Academy: the Shadow Riders.

During this fiasco, Ray had come across Chazz during a chance encounter near the lake. Needless to say, the former Obelisk student was surprised.

"You're Ray Akaba!" Chazz exclaimed.

"Yeah," Ray said, puzzled by his behavior. "Can I help you?"

"You're that girl who changed the uniform policy!" Chazz said. "Please use your special sewing skills on my uniform!"

Ray was rather embarrassed about being praised like that. Her simple decision to alter her jacket to not remind her of Kaiba has made her become a legend among the students for over a year. She took a look at Chazz's uniform, which wasn't school-related, but was allowed to wear it as long as he followed the rules. In fact, nonuniforms have also been made as an exception during the uniform policy change. His grayish-purple shirt, dark blue jeans, and brown shoes were fine, but his dark gray trench coat was tattered at the ends. Was that why he needed his help?

"I'll see what I can do," Ray said.

"Thank you, Ms. Akaba!" Chazz said as he took off his trench coat and gave it to Ray.

Because of her legacy, Ray was given her own sewing kit as a thank you gift for creating an extraordinary change. As she was about to fix up the tattered ends, she noticed there were a few rips on the sleeves. Where did Chazz get this coat in the first place? Was it part of the clothes he got during his stay at North Academy? Regardless, she knew he was going to love the results once she's finished.

Meanwhile, Michael strolled by the Slifer Red dorm as part of his personal tour of what the other dorms are like. He was still having a hard time accepting that this was where some of the students were staying for the next few years…although it does have a neat view of the ocean. As he gazed upon the dorm's structure, a familiar voice called from the balcony. He eyes shifted in the direction of where it was coming from, leading him to notice it belonged to Jaden. How did he not notice the Elemental HERO user until just now?

"Whoa, is that a dragon?!" Jaden had called out.

Michael glanced over at his Odd-Eyes Dragon card; since it was the only dragon he has, it obviously was what Jaden was referring to. The Obelisk Blue teen still had his tendency to leave Odd-Eyes out of his deck and bring his friend along with him all the time.

However, Michael quickly realized there was no way for Jaden to see that card all the way on the ground. "How did you...?"

"I can see him standing next to you," Jaden explained, walking over to the onion-haired teen. "And from the looks of it, he seems pretty protective."

Michael asked himself how it was possible for Jaden to see Odd-Eyes. Can he also communicate with Duel Monster Spirits too?

"You can actually see Duel Monster Spirits?" Michael asked.

"Sure can," Jaden cheerfully answered. "Sure is fun to see them."

"I can't actually see them," Michael admitted. "I can only hear Odd-Eyes speak to me through his card."

"There's a difference?" Jaden asked.

"There is," Michael answered.

"Then maybe we should hang out some time after this whole Shadow Riders thing is taken care of so you can tell me more about this dragon of yours," Jaden suggested, putting his arm across Michael's shoulders. "Whaddya say?" He winked with a huge grin on his face.

Was this Jaden's way of flirting? Sure looks like it and it made Michael surprised yet a bit uncomfortable. It was obvious he had feelings for Ray, making him straight, but what about Jaden? Was he homosexual or bisexual with a male preference? Then again, it would be nice to befriend someone from outside of the Obelisk Blue dorms; hopefully, Jaden will understand that he already has a crush on his childhood friend.

"Sure," Michael said. "I can tell you all about my experiences with Odd-Eyes."

"Sounds pretty sweet to me," Jaden said. "Maybe you can also tell me where you got those cool green highlights."

Back at the female Obelisk Blue dorm, Ray finished sewing up the last rip on the left sleeve, completely fixing Chazz's trench coat. Her kit had similar colors, but they were in different shades; while teaching herself how to sew during the past decade, she also developed an extremely keen eye that can tell which hue matches the piece of clothing. Luckily, the tailor room had some fabric in the exact colors she needed. Despite the mini search she went on, she made the entire jacket look brand new again.

At that moment, Ray had a sudden idea. What if she could start a mini-business during the remainder of her school years? There were probably other students who need to repair their uniforms. Maybe she could help out with that. She made a post-it note reminding herself to return Chazz's trench coat and set up flyers promoting free uniform repairs first thing tomorrow morning.

There was a knock on the door, leading Ray to inform the person that it's unlocked. That person she spoke to turned out to be Michael. Needless to say, what he said was rather unexpected as soon as he entered the room.

"I love you, Ray Akaba!" the onion-haired teen declared.

A light tint of pink quickly formed on Ray's cheeks as she stood frozen in place. The pen she used to write the reminder slipped out of her hand and fell on the floor just as she was about to put it away when she heard those five words.

"Michael?" Ray asked. "Why did you- MMPH!"

Her question was cut off with a kiss from Michael, but it was more of a running kiss. He had dashed towards her to connect his lips with hers, only for them to fall down to the floor in the process. Fortunately, their kiss wasn't broken and she eventually gave in before they engaged in a loving make-out session. Ray's right hand landed on the back of Michael's head as she entangled her fingers through his silver strands whereas her left arm wrapped itself on his back, using her left hand to lightly grip onto his shoulder and embracing him.

Some time later, the two had to part for air, but their arms were still wrapped around each other. "What's...going on?" Ray asked, having a hard time speaking due to Michael giving small kisses on her neck. Her grip on his hair tightened as he did so.

"Turns out that Jaden kid is attracted to guys," Michael explained between kisses. "It made me realize you're the only person I love."

Ray was flummoxed by what Michael said, and those pecks on her neck made it difficult to understand what he means. She soon deduced that he ultimately admitted his sexual preference to Jaden when they met. Simultaneously, she also began to see how cute her childhood friend really is.

"Well you do have cute hair and nice eyes," Ray admitted, ruffling the onion-shaped locks.

"So does that mean...?" Michael asked.

"I guess we're officially boyfriend and girlfriend," Ray admitted. "But..."

"I told you, we have nothing to worry about," Michael repeated. "Leo will never know."

2018 Preview Party In [email protected]

Fashion Week is one the most stressful but pivotal weeks for the fashion industry, where trends are forecasted and revolutionized by a single detail in fabric, accessory or hairstyle.   hosts an event each year with similar goals but without all the stress. Our third annual Jewelry Preview Party was held in New York City last week. We invited several of our friends from well-known fashion magazines including OK! Magazine, Redbook, Lucky, Cosmopolitan, Real Simple, Woman’s Replica Cartier Earrings World and more to join us for this fun fashion trend focused event. Since I was lucky enough to go, I had to share some of the highlights with you! For starters, let’s talk about the trends! In the New Year, you can expect to see everything from jungle-inspired designs to pearls with a punch. Whatever suits your style, our has something special for you. Below are just a few of our trend tables from the event! New Year’s Resolution #1: More Carats

When I think about New Year’s resolutions, I typically think about things that are hard or difficult and somehow result in a lifestyle change. People resolve to stop smoking, eat healthy, get fit, or in my case last year, stop biting my nails! (Author’s Fake Cartier Love Earrings Note: My nails are currently much longer than this time last year, but I’m still working on this one bad habit.) This year, I’m making a resolution that’s not only going to be easier, but also going to make me happier! This year, I’m resolving to have! I’ve been telling people for a few weeks now, and they just nod their head and say “that’s great!” They of course, think I’m talking about those hard as a rock orange sticks called carrots! Ha, if only they knew I’m resolving for something much more fun and much easier to stick with! In fact, I’m so excited about my New Year’s resolution that I had to share it with you and the new pieces I’ve picked out to help me keep my 2018 resolution! This first piece is a stunning! At almost 63carats, I think it sparkles brighter than the ball drop in Times Square and priced under $100, I simply can’t resist. I can’t wait to wear it to my next dinner with friends and hear all the girls gush. The second piece is a 15ct  I love the dark purple hue. It reminds me of royalty and wearing it makes me feel regal! Cheap Cartier Juste un Clou Earrings You can’t help but feel lifted up when putting on a piece of artwork this magnificent. Next, I think these 4.68 morganite color are joining my collection soon. They’re just what I need to for my upcoming vacation. I want to look fabulous without worrying about an expensive earring going missing in the snow. Not quite done yet, I’ve chosen a 1.80 carat. I feel tipsy just gazing at it, but I simply can’t stop. It’s a gorgeous example of the kind of cocktail ring every woman dreams about and the perfect piece for my next date night. The final piece of sparkle I’ve chosen is a. The 99.35 carats are to die for and guaranteed to turn heads in every room! I may even stop some traffic with this new treasure. I can’t wait to get it home, and I may never take it off. Try not to stare if you see me wearing it the next time you’re at the grocery store. Shopping  ’s amazing selection and prices, I can have more carats than every before and not change a thing! Adding almost 183 more carats to my collection with these six new pieces, I’m positive this New Year’s Resolution is going to be kept and 2018 is setting up to be my best year yet! Luxury Jewelry Gifts I must admit, when I think of the word “luxury” so many different thoughts enter my mind. At first, visions of gold, fine furs, fast cars, marble floors and faraway places cloud my mind. I think of old Hollywood movies and the dream of swimming in Amulette de Cartier Earrings Outlet diamonds – it’s a thought that makes me smile and selfishly wish for more money…or maybe a fairy godmother? Luxury is a thing that is desirable yet seemingly unattainable. It would be a luxury to waste the days away on my own island with my own butler feeding me grapes and fanning my face as I lie on a cushioned hammock listening to the ocean waves kiss the shore… But wait! Before I let my brain go on a virtual vacation… Jewelry is a luxury, no matter who you are. As vain beings, we humans look to enhance our look with gemstones, gold, silver and, well…sparkle! And it seems appropriate to be having this conversation with the Holidays practically peeping over our shoulders. What is more sparkly, luxurious and spirit-lifting than this time of year? The answer may have been “nothing” before you read this post, but now that you are here…I may have found just a few luxury jewelry gifts that out-shine even the brightest Holiday season. If discussing lavish lifestyles, one must start with. This piece has plenty of those in its 10k white gold setting. Yes, a 2.00ctw in 10k white gold. I have to be honest with you, as much as I want to tell you about it, all I want to be doing is wearing this around. In person, this ring could literally stop traffic – it is that beautiful. I cannot wait for you to get it home and try it on. Talk about feeling like your best self! White Diamond Cocktail Ring Next, with my mind on those blue ocean waves we talked about earlier, I thought it appropriate to add some Tanzanite to the mix. This 1.30ctw cushion tanzanite pendant is accompanied by .02ctw round white diamonds all held together in the most elegant 14k white gold setting. This particular stone is a spectacular, royal blue. I want to put this on a white gold chain and wear it with a winter-white sweater. The blue brought out by this stone is one that will mesmerize anyone who catches a glimpse. Perfect for cold weather or warm! Okay, now Knockoff Cartier Trinity Earrings the 4.63ctw have selected to show you are must-haves if you are going to any kind of function or special dinner. Only to be worn with something that will let them stand out – consider changing it up and wearing your hair in an up-do if you are going to be sporting these because they need to be seen with light coming through the back of them. makes me feel like a princess. I am partial to this stone because my first purchase with Jewelry Television was a Morganite ring. However, I have a feeling I won’t be the only one who favors these. Morganite and 14kt Rose Gold Earrings The fourth piece I picked out is a 1.32ct rectangular cushion with round white diamonds set in 14k yellow gold. is a unique stone that just screams luxury.  Not only is it very rare, but also zultanite can exhibit color change or color shift properties! When you look this up, make sure you notice the detail. There are diamonds on the shoulders and bridge of this prong-set ring. The bridge of the ring also includes a leaf-like detail that is carved in the gold. The grandeur of this ring makes any hand look delicate and sweet. The last piece I’ve chosen to exemplify luxury is an absolute shoe-in. When the words are spoken, luxury lingers in the air. So, when presented with a dark gray cultured it is hard not to “ooh” and “ahh”. Earlier, when I said “if luxury is what you are looking for this Holiday season,” the feeling that you get when you see this 18-inch strand of pearls is exactly what I was referring to. Good luck saying “no” to this piece, I fear the thought of wearing this necklace will be stuck in your daydreams forever.