does anyone else think it’s really funny how in denial most ppl on here will be over whether trans dudes have any male privilege, but then they’ll turn around and just implicitly trust and listen to trans men even as they’re talking over trans women and belittling us? even in matters of transmisogyny, even while they’re shutting down attempts at criticism? and they just never connect the dots that maybe there’s a gendered dynamic going on, maybe some sexism nobody wants to admit because god forbid we acknowledge trans women experience misogyny, even at the hands of the larger ‘community’?

Papa Unff Bear

Hey there cub. Looking good as always.

Who am I? Why, I’m Papa Unff Bear, pleased to meet you, though I dare say you should know my name by now.

You’re joking, aren’t you boy? Asking me why I’m called that. Why just look at me cub, this hair, this face, this bod, isn’t it enough to make you cream your pants? Or at the least, make you want to let out a good, loud, UNFF?

What do you mean by you don’t know who I am, boy? Do I look like a man to be toyed around, to be trifled with?

“I w-w-weally don’t know who you are!” Stupid boy. Who do you think I am? Big fucking daddy bear, turning up in the middle of your apartment in the middle of the night while you’re lying in the middle of your bed.

Come now, don’t tell me you’ve already forgotten just because you have a boyfriend now? How many lonely, sleepless nights have I kept you company, helped you tug one out, smothered your tears with my luxurious beard?

I wasn’t there? You’re going to listen to me boy, and you’re going to listen good because Papa Unff Bear’s no fool, he’ll let any old Tom, Dick, Harry on the streets run his name to the ground for all he cares. But to have his boy, the one he’s cared for and cherished tell him, to his face, that he wasn’t there for him??!? You better have a damn good reason and you better spit it out fast boy because Papa Unff Bear is a patient man but you’re really testing the limits now.

Oh don’t you give me that “I remember you now” fake-ass pretense. You’re talking to me boy, only thing worse than an ingrate is a liar and Papa Unff Bear can smell one from a mile off. You have no clue whatsoever do you boy?

That’s better. That’s what I thought. Papa Unff Bear likes cubs who tell the truth, that’s something. Something Papa can work with. Now listen up cub because Papa Unff Bear’s got some learning to do you for. Your old Papa Unff Bear here’s real simple: he’s every wet dream you’ve ever had, every boner you’ve ever popped, every little moan you’ve made with that mouth of yours.

Sh, cub, Papa’s talking. No man is perfect but Papa Unff Bear sure as hell is and more. I’m every single missed connection, every time your words have failed you, every time you’ve walked home from the bar, alone, again. Do you get it now? When you cry yourself to sleep, pining and hoping for someone to be there for you, to hold you close and press their body against you, I’m right there by your side. When you get nasty by yourself in the bedroom I’m with you the whole way, riding that high. When you walk out of your apartment the next day, preened and prepped and ready to try again, I’m the little skip in your step, egging you on, spurring you forward.

Is this a dream? I suppose that’ll be reeeaal convenient for you now, wouldn’t it boy? That you’ll just wake up and forget that you ever forgot good old Papa Unff Bear but no, boy, I may exist only within your mind but I’m as real as the next image you conjure up with that silly little noggin. Truthfully, I’ll be far stronger, years and years of desire-fuelled thoughts will do that for you. I guess I should thank you boy, you’ve kept me hale and hearty, though I hoped that you would have remembered me by now, what with you getting it good every night for the past couple of weeks.

Of course I know about that, foolish boy. I live in your head, remember? So I know all about the new boyfriend and how he’s moving in with you and how you’re so in love, like you’ve never known before. So in love, you can’t even spare a thought for your dear old Papa Unff Bear. That’s ok. That’s alright. Papa Unff Bear understands. He’s happy for you even. All Papa Unff Bear ever wants is to understand his cub. So how do you think Papa Unff Bear feels when his cub can’t even begin to do that for him? No thank yous, no parting words, no kisses goodbye, NOTHING. So Papa came on out, popped right out of that little space in your brain that you usually reserve for him. Did that ever feel good, to be able to shake these thunder thighs once more. Don’t suppose you realise that Papa’s mental penthouse has been growing ever so slightly more cramped and run-down these past few weeks, have you? No I don’t suppose you have, what with all the real estate you’ve been freeing up for darling Joe.

Oh, so now that I mention Joe someone wants to act all brave? Well two can play at that game, except one of us isn’t a quaking, snivelling mess. Don’t you worry your sweet head, honey bunches, I’ve got nothing against Joe. He’s not the one who lived with me and grew up under my care only to toss me aside the moment something better and more permanent came along. Oh no, my beef, all my beef, is purely with you. Whether you meant to or not, you were going to take away everything from me. So I think it’s only fair that I take everything away from you.

Seriously, you’re going to try running away from me? I’m sure that’ll work out just great for you, loads of stories out there of people successfully ignoring their thoughts forever, yessiree.

Aw, come now. Don’t cry, don’t cry, it’s so ugly on you. Hmph, you really are just one big baby bear aren’t ya? Look at it this way, you’ll finally be a real dreamboat of a dom daddy, no more wishful thinking needed. Isn’t that what you always wanted? Don’t bother answering, of course it is, how else would I end up like this?

Sh, sh, quiet cub. I won, you lost. That’s all there is to it. Now hold still.

---

Is that you Joe? Give me a minute, I’m just stepping out of the shower.

What, you’ve never seen your boyfriend naked before? Come on in, silly.

Yeah, I went out and bought all this gear while waiting for you to come home, thought we could really spice it up tonight.

Of course, I can do that, you’re Daddy’s sweet little boy aren’t you? Just listen to what Papa Bear here says and he’ll make you cry Unff all night long…

Ranty Plot #002

While still in a weakened state, Jaskier has a tub brought in and washes the man, takes care to ensure everything is nice and pleasant. Warm water, non-offensive oils, and scrubs every bit of grime from the man's skin and hair. So my first post was fluff. This...isn’t. This is dark. My Discord group loves to discuss Warlord AUs, and one of the more interesting ideas is Warlord Jaskier. Except my Jaskier is a little...broken. He also loves to break those around him.

Fandom: The Witcher

Ship(s): Jaskier/Geralt, Geralt/Eskel, Jaskier/Geralt/Eskel/Lambert

Tags: Dark, Emotional Manipulation, Physical Torture, Stockholm Syndrome, Severe Dub-Con, Brainwashing, Feral Jaskier, Broken Boys, Warlord Jaskier, Semi-Canon Universe.

Imagine Warlord Jaskier has captured Geralt with the intent of breaking him down and training him to be his very dangerous harem pet.

At first Jaskier lets his men try to break Geralt.

They whip him, beat him, torment him with lack of food and water. But Jaskier knows that none of that will actually work.

After about a week of this Jaskier comes in and banishes his men, actively chastising them for bringing harm to such a beautiful creature.

Maybe he even beats one down with the same tools they'd used on Geralt.

He comes up to Geralt, still bound heavily, soothes him like one would a wild animal. He's letting Geralt get his scent, playing into the instincts rather than the man.

After all, Jaskier is clever. Logically Geralt can withstand any kind of torture. With the power of meditation and his mutations, his body will break long before his mind ever does.

But Witchers are, after all, part beast. And beasts can be tamed with the right incentive.

So Jaskier feeds him and gives him water, but doesn't untie him. "You'd just break my neck, given the chance. Can't trust a wolf without a collar now can I?"

Geralt eventually says or does something 'rude' and Jaskier takes it as his sign to leave. He gets up, walks away, locks the door behind him. He leaves Geralt chained in a cell, no guards or anything for 24 hours.

He comes back the next day, more soothing, more hand-feeding. He turns it into a daily ritual, gets Geralt to the state of mind that 'Jaskier's presence means food and good things.'

This goes on for about a week. Jaskier unties Geralt, and isn't immediately killed. He makes it apparent that he'll stay for as long as Geralt is good, but the moment Geralt does something he doesn't like, he leaves. He never once raises hand or voice, just leaves Geralt to another 24 hours of isolation.

One day Geralt has a 'plan.' He lashes out, tries to free himself. Nearly kills Jaskier until the guards get in there. Jaskier insists that the guards not hurt him though, no, for what wild animal isn't unpredictable? You don't kill a wolf for hunting a man in its own territory. (Well, they do, but besides the point)

Jaskier leaves him in isolation for 2 weeks. No food. Only enough water to live. He drains Geralt of all of his strength until, when he comes back in, the man is barely able to lift his head.

In this state, the line between logic and instinct is virtually nonexistent. Geralt hasn't had living contact in ages. Jaskier sits with him, puts Geralt's head in his lap and once again gives him food and water by hand, then runs his fingers through the man's hair.

While still in a weakened state, Jaskier has a tub brought in and washes the man, takes care to ensure everything is nice and pleasant. Warm water, non-offensive oils, and scrubs every bit of grime from the man's skin and hair.

The conditioning takes a little better after that. Geralt is more 'docile,' and his eyes dilate whenever Jaskier enters the room. It's a sign that Geralt's logical mind is being pushed aside for the animalistic hindbrain. The animal is taking over now.

It takes less than 3 months to fully break the great White Wolf. By the time that his brothers come for him, Jaskier has Geralt warming his bed willingly. They find Geralt there, snuggled up to Jaskier, before the animal brain kicks in again. Threats in his territory and threats to his mate.

He doesn't have the Witchers killed though. No. Far too valuable. Instead he has them captured, same as Geralt. Don't worry, Geralt, you'll have your packmates back soon enough darling.

Eskel takes about as long as Geralt. He's more 'human' though, and it takes him a bit longer to slip from man to beast. But once he does, he's so grateful for loving human contact that the rest goes so smoothly.

Lambert takes the longest though. Mostly because that fucking mouth of his. It takes Jaskier physical effort not to slap the bastard at times. But once he does, he turns out to be the cuddliest of the trio.

Geralt and Eskel are so relieved when they see each other next. Geralt had been very worried for his brother. Jaskier makes a show of fucking both of them in front of the other, 'establishing dominance' and all that.

Jaskier sometimes comes back to his chamber to find his two favorite wolves already fucking each other. He'll go sit on the bed and run his fingers through their hair, calls them all sorts of nice names. He likes to take sloppy seconds too.

Eskel and Geralt essentially feed into each other's conditioning at this point, a sort of echo chamber.

Lambert needs some extra incentive though. Jaskier uses Geralt and Eskel to help break down the last of Lambert’s walls...

Lambert being curled in the middle of the puppy pile. His head on Jaskier's lap, his brothers surrounding him and he just...breaks down.

Not in the conditioning sense, but his heart breaks down. Because he's never had this. He's never felt cared for.

And finally he has the brothers he's spent ages trying to look up to, here with him, protecting their youngest brother.

And it's all thanks to this strange man.

Jaskier lets the boys hunt together as a pack. The boys go take down a troll or something. Jaskier has a feast ready for them on their return, literally sings their praises, and has them pampered for doing so good.

It’s the first time they've felt valued and appreciated for being Witchers.

Vesemir eventually finds them. Of course he does.

Jaskier even welcomes him into his home to come see his boys.

At this point the conditioning is so ingrained he's not worried about it being broken anymore.

"You've raised such wonderful boys, Vesemir. You should be proud. I've never had such loyal men before."

Of course he tries to reason with the boys. He tries to talk them out of it. He tries emotionally, only to have it thrown in his face that he never gave the boys the love they wanted. He tries appealing to their training, but Jaskier played into that by playing into the mutagens. Tries playing into their oath as Witchers but, "You think I don't send my pets out to hunt, Vesemir? What good are wolves if you keep them chained in the yard. They keep my land, and their beloved, safe. I couldn't ask for better, stronger Witchers. And, unlike you, I let them hunt as a pack. Shame on you for breaking apart pack animals to hunt on their own."

Jaskier lets Vesemir go. But before he does, "Just know this old man. I will have you escorted to the edge of my territory. You will leave hale and hearty and no harm will come to you. This is my promise, as I know my pets don't want to see you hurt. But after that? Should you ever deign to cross into my land again, I will have you hunted by the very men you trained."

"So go. Go back to your empty castle in your lonely mountains. These are your Witchers no longer."

End?

FFxivWrite ‘20, Nineteen

Prompt: Where The Heart Is, post-Shadowbringers (spoiler-free), 999 words

Through the window, Aymeric watched the snow falling, streaking past like stars. He’d spent a lot of time thinking about stars lately. Over the last several years, actually. He’d referred to Etien as a star once, referring to the constancy of light, the guidance she could give.

She had, after all, been the agent that had kickstarted so many of the changes in Ishgard, and out from there. He was still baffled that Lyse had asked him for help beginning a republic. He’d known so little of doing such a thing here in his home, and knew even less of Ala Mhigo.

But forget all the politics, because gods, he needed a break from all that. He had little bitterness remaining regarding his appointment (and how the Count de Durendaire had pushed so strongly for him to accept it), but if he didn’t have to think about it right now, he didn’t want to.

He would rather think about other things. Like snow.

While he had liked snow when he was young, he’d grown a little tired of it over the last several years. Still, there was a certain magic to the beginnings of a snowfall. And there was stronger, better magic still in being curled up and warm with a loved one while one watched the flakes cascading down to the ground.

Etien had been asleep for a while already now, having curled up under the covers early due to a headache that just wouldn’t break, but her body had relaxed now. So it would seem the pain had dissipated.

Aymeric pulled himself closer to her with an arm around her middle, feeling the soft layer of skin and some fat over the musculature of her stomach. He acknowledged the change, for as familiar as he was with her body, but didn’t have much of an opinion about it. His only real thought on the matter was that he was glad she wasn’t sickly. By some miracle, in fact, Etien was hale and hearty.

And she was home. His little star, fallen back to earth, nestled to his side to burn through the night and keep him warm.

He ran the backs of his fingers over her cheek, and smiled when she let out a sigh that sounded almost relieved.

“I’m here, Etien,” he murmured, breaking the silence in the room.

She hummed, the sound carrying bits of a purr, and pressed back against him a little further.

Home. That was a funny concept, wasn’t it? Everyone had a different definition. For some, home was where you hung your hat—perhaps better suited to the more nomadic at heart. For others, home was where everyone knew your name, somewhere you were well-known.

For others still, home is where the heart is.

Aymeric had always liked that one, like there was some way to just find where your heart wanted to be and that was where you could call home. He’d come to a better understanding of the phrase’s meaning after Etien had left for Gyr Abania after their elopement, as they’d been calling it. Every time she’d set foot outside Ishgard after that, he’d told her some iteration of the same thing— “my heart goes with you.”

How could it not, when she had such careful possession of it?

Another thing that had crystallized Aymeric’s understanding was actually something Etien had said to him. She’d said she would choose him over Ishgard.

He had often wondered, even after that, what her definition of home was, especially when she was always on the move. Had she a place to hang her hat? While everyone knew her name, did anyone—save a few close companions—really know her?

But in light of that, in saying she would choose him over Ishgard, Aymeric thought he finally understood what home being where the heart was actually meant.

Wherever he went, she would follow him. She wasn’t tied to this house, this tract of land, this city-state (as endeared as she was to it). And certainly, she wasn’t to any titles that might or might not apply.

Etien had said she would have loved him “without the paperwork,” and she would love him here, or in the Lavender Beds, or on some island in the Ruby Sea.

Aymeric wished he had gotten to see the Ruby Sea. Etien hadn’t had too much to say about it, seeming to prefer the Azim Steppe and Kugane, at least from that leg of her journey. But he’d always been curious. Mayhap he could convince her to take a seafaring vacation with him?

Nothing could be so unbearably awful if they were together, right? That was certainly what he thought. Nothing was worse, and everything better, with her by his side. He nuzzled Etien, the way she often did to him soon after taking her place on his lap.

Everything was better, especially watching the tumble of heavy white snowflakes blanket the stones outside.

With the hazy sluggishness of a mind still half-asleep, Etien tipped her head, searching for Aymeric, wordlessly asking for a kiss.

He gave her a brief peck, laughing when she let out a soft whine, wanting more.

“More?” he asked, faking disbelief.

“If you’re going to wake me up at—gods, before dawn—you could make it worth my while,” she groaned. She turned in his grasp, sliding her arm around him and pressing her lips to the underside of his jaw. “Though it’s always worth it to wake up pressed against you.”

“The feeling is mutual,” he assured her. “And believe you me, I will give you as many kisses as I am able.”

She grinned, still so sleepy her eyes wouldn’t fully open, and brought her lips to his again. And then once more.

There was a magic in getting to be home anywhere he was, wrapped in the embrace of a star fallen to his side and wanting never to leave, Aymeric realized just before they both fell asleep again.

Jercy fic recs???? Plz

Sure thing! From the top of my head:

On Ao3

The Sandwich Thief by boombashkas

Summary: Someone at work has started stealing Jason's lunch every day. And leaving stupid letters behind in its place.

Play Pretend by razielim (explicit)

Jason is a model student and a perfect son. Or, he's trying to be those things, but it's chipping away at his emotional stability. So perhaps he wasn't really thinking clearly when he asked Jackson, the class punk and delinquent, to help him get his parents off his back.

On FF.net

Holy Ground by hale-and-hearty (explicit)

Summary: “Do you count as an ex if you're also the current boyfriend?" "Current? We've been dating for four years. Is 'current' even the right word for 'stuck with each other forever?" In which Jason learns that being more than just a summer fling means you have to face heartbreak, and Percy can't handle relationships. AU (Side PercyxLuke, brief JasonxReyna)

Radio Rivalry by Hot Crimson Passion (explicit)

Percy and Jason work at the same radio station. And they hate each other with a passion. When they have to take their broadcast on the road, everything boils over for both of them.

I won’t let this opportunity pass without promoting my own work on ao3 because you know self-promo is life.

Completed works:

Congratulations! You’re in love with your best friend. by notmeagain

Summary: Jason realizes he’s in love with Percy via a Buzzfeed quiz.

Meeting You Here by notmeagain

Summary: A collection of Jercy AUs.

Incomplete works:

from me to you (here to there to wherever you are) by notmeagain

Summary: A pen pal program brings two young boys together over the course of years. Each year brings them new experiences and challenges that could break their long-time friendship or make it stronger. Also known as the penpal au literally no one asked for.

Fun at Summer Camp by notmeagain

Summary: Summer Camp was supposed to be a fun experience from the campers to the councilors and it should have been if wasn't for the fact that there was literally another camp right across the lake with two head councilors, Percy and Jason, trying to go at each other at every opportunity. At least everyone else thinks it's cute.

Arima Verse Reboot 8 Each of the three great Countries has a Different magical specialties. While some overlaps do exist below notes some special points. Portheous: Elementalist- Porthean Elementalists are masters of the elements, unleashing horrifically devastating cataclysms at a wave of a hand, a few words and a couple ingredients. Elementalists tend to gravitate toward wide area effects, utilized as them living artillery. Despite this stereotype some Elementalists prefer to pepper their enemies with more precise bolts of lightning, spears of ice, and other elementally destructive attacks. Elementalists have also found themselves in demand as makeshift masters of manipulating the weather with more abstract use of their magic. A few impressively skilled Elementalists have even created tangible cloud fortifications and homes, though these take excessive amounts of maintenance to keep from dispersing. Weather control in all its forms need to be done with particular care however, in order to avoid annihilating the local climate and causing massive ecological shifts. More than one forest has become a desert at the hands of an oblivious Elementalist. Necromancy-Where Kaleria has a direct connection to Otherlen Manifests and Zoartis has Wyld Manifests, Portheous’ connection to Elsewere yielded no such benefits for them. Attempts to make deals or pacts with beings of the Nexus have only ended in catastrophe. This left Portheous at a disadvantage, lacking a way to house their own Marked. The Immortal Delmaus thusly put her mind to work and came up with the concepts of animating bodies, skeletal remains, and other dark magics. Necromancer became the Marked of Portheous, eventually even being referred to as such by mages world over. This is an inaccurate title, as has been parroted by the “intellectuals” of the world, but is evocative of their role. The study is innately grim, but Porthean people don’t look upon it with any more worry then a Kalerian does watching a Marked stroll down the street with an amorphous blob of endless eyes and mouths. That is to say shock and completely understandable concern. Overclock-Porthean mages have over the years found ways to make their fellows hardier. With a focus on teamwork and companionship the arts of ‘Clockers’ became very common, the basics being taught all over Portheous to this day. Overclocking is a school of magic dedicated to making individuals faster, more durable, stronger and imbuing other beneficial effects. Overclocking can be very simple or overly complex. Though necromancy does have some form of healing its generally avoided if possible, due to the inherent messiness of having a mage dedicated to undeath fiddle with your organs. Turning instead to a Clocker’s ability to enhance your own innate healing has become a desirable alternative. Clockers have been rumored to ramp up healing enough to fix scars or regrow limbs, though most accounts agree that unless done carefully this has dire side effects. Overclocking too much can have unpleasant effects on the individuals subjected to it and backlash on the caster can be painful. Clockers tend to be able to maintain several low grade enhancements on others at a time and save more powerful in the moment buffs for when things go bad for their band. A common complaint by those who are under the effects of this type of magic is an innate case of whats called ‘The Munchies.’ The power has to come from somewhere, and the easiest source is the subject’s body. Bands or towns with a Clocker have been known to go through truly prodigious amounts of food. Kaleria: Occultism-In Kaleria the study of other realms has lead to the development of an esoteric magical school, altering the natural state of reality. Their capabilities ranges from rapidly aging opponents into husks, Creating barriers out of seemingly nothing, and other fantastical abilities. The study of Occult magic is incredibly precise and mentally demanding both on the caster and the recipient. More than one individual has been driven to insanity from its studies or subjected to its warping effects both directly or indirectly. Occult magic is built upon a foundation of fundamental understanding, knowing how the caster’s current plane functions and forcibly altering its state. This makes it usable by almost anyone who knows how to perform it, but missing even small steps can cause a cascade of backlashes and unintended effects. This magic tends to pair perfectly with Marked who learn magic from their manifests, and often being Marked comes with the requisite understanding to being the pursuit of Occultism. The most common description of Occultism is to view the tapestry of reality, to take in the meaning of a single scrap, and to reweave it to one’s liking. Mess up hard enough, and you might just rip open a hole to the void in your living room. Divine-The Priests and priestess’s of Kaleria are a devoted lot who have learned well the lessons of their Immortal patrons. The endless scriptures and tests of faith steel these individuals, granting the wisdom and determination to enact miracles as granted by the Immortals. These miracles are held within books of scripture and granted by prayer to their patrons. They have a stunning array of magic they know and seemingly forget and replace these blessings on an almost daily basis, gleaning what they think they need and what they can both mystically and mentally handle. The greatest gift of these divine servants is the immense power of their healing magic. These blessings can seemingly wipe injuries from existence, leaving those who are fortunate enough to be blessed by a talented priest even better off than before they were harmed. One of the greatest gladiatorial champions once fought 30 skilled warriors suffering grave injuries, enough that many thought his death inevitable. Only to see him walk into his own celebration, hale and hearty, having been put back together in an afternoon. Though Priests and Priestesses of such caliber are rare and their talents costly, the fact they exist gives an enormous advantage over their neighbors. They don’t let them forget it either. The original lessons were taught by the 4 immortals, over the years other powerful entities have added their knowledge to the pool, some would say tainting it, while others welcome with praise these esoteric masters. Breaker-Breakers are the drop outs of occultism magic. Where a proper occultist can disassemble and rework the tapestry of the world into their own desire, the Breaker looks at the tapestry of the world and decides to fist fight it. They impose their will on the realm and force reality to become what they want, bypassing the need for the trickery and manipulation of Occultists with raw willpower. This tends to have terrible consequences on the Breaker and those around them when things go wrong, even more so than for Occultists, which isn’t something one can say often. Should a Breaker’s will not be strong enough to maintain the changes or force the alterations they wish, it tends to lead to nose bleeds, catatonic states, and individuals who need to relearn how to retie their sandals. Many Breakers have sought out and made deals with creatures beyond reality who help to bolster them against the negative effects of what they try to do to reality. This has been met with mixed results for those who have studied the Breakers and their capabilities. Due to the methods that Breakers use, this tends to leave them with a small but rather potent pool of arcane talents they pick up over the years. Practice makes perfect, but new spells are hard to learn when someone can’t use books to help them explode people. Zoartis: Mirror-The Art of illusion and deception is a favorable tactic of zoartis mages. Making yourself appear to have friends, making something look more dangerous or less dangerous than it is, the capability to turn invisible or silence an area. The guerilla tactics of many Zoartis citizens have found these talents invaluable. It is said in legend one of the greatest practitioners was able to stand against an invading army merely by making his opponent believe he was facing overwhelming odds. This type of magic, over a long career, does begin to play tricks on its practitioners, making them doubt their own realities and truth from fiction. Some slip and become lost in their own illusions if they are not careful. Kinetics- Kinetic magic a unique form of practical magic. It blends a little of many theories of magic to turn its practitioners into jacks of all trades, masters of none. The kinetic mages tend to cast short range illusions,self buffs,self healing, destruction magic channeled through fists and weapons. Their spells can be varied but are not of much use to anyone except to the self, rarely being able to be applied to others. The kinetic has no medium beyond their self. This has lead more than one kinetic to push themselves far beyond their mental and physical capabilities leading to self destruction over the years. Or in particularly spectacular cases, over the course of a few glorious minutes. This is known as “Going Nova,” and is the Kinetic’s best option for a last stand and/or getting into a bard’s song. The self destructive side of this magic is not helped by the euphoric feel of channeling its raw capabilities through one’s self. It feels really good to have super powers. With careful moderation, and the assistance of a Kalerian Priest or Priestess, a Kinetic will overcome the pinnacle of their potential through sheer force of will. They might even survive the endeavor. Verbose-The verbose are an oddity of mages in the world. Unlike those who seek to alter reality, bend it to their will and command it, the verbose is the friend of the world. Their voice and movement speak to a realm that is thriving in its own right. They have the earth, water, and weather assist them or hamper their enemies. A little extra nutrient for the soil, some respect for the volcano, and other friendly gestures have created a wonderful symbiotic relationship between the Verbose and its surroundings. The respect and good will of the Verbose to its surroundings is said to even have the Wyld or the Otherlens bend to assist these unique magically gifted individuals. But a pitfall to many Verbose is that of many weak individuals with a powerful friend behind them. They sometimes become arrogant and forgetful of the ‘Friendship’ they have with nature, asking for much more than they give back. Eventually Nature itself can find the symbiotic relationship become parasitic, when that happens the Verbose becomes a virus that nature with its endless patience will see purged from its system. These unwise fools are known as Anathema, and the world itself is their tormentor. Those few who survive long enough to make amends will find Nature to be a forgiving patron, so long as those who wrong her truly seek redemption. If you like this content and want to help support us please feel free join our patreon at https://www.patreon.com/gravedragonproductions

I'm curious what you predict for my new year.

Rosemary stares deep into her crystal ball, smiling as yet more fireworks go off somewhere above her. Feeling the world shift and turn around her, she lets her mind sink deep into the layers of possible futures, slowly divining what the world has in store for the bastard king.

“2019 will be a year of journeys and discovery for you, sweet king… you have broken free of the prison that kept you chained down, unable to show your true self… you have climbed back onto the world stage and taken back your true name… and you have taken a son of darkness as your consort… an auspicious start, to be sure…

“We see in your future a series of vicious battles around the world, against a foray of formidable opponents… we see a man as solid as a wall, who devastates thousands with a single slap… a man with an acid tongue and the soul of a squid… and another who shifts himself into the spaces between the air, and twists his opponents into other worlds… truly, you have courage…

“But we also see a series of personal challenges for you… we see you growing as a person… becoming wiser and more confident… learning to communicate better with others… making words your tools instead of your hindrances… and keeping your feet out of your mouth, haha… you also learn to quench your grudges and move past the mistakes of the past… such are the foundations of your kingdom…

“As it grows, bit by bit, we see yourself becoming stronger and wiser… your kingdom is but a reflection of your inner self… and the state of one reflects the other… a king can do more for his kingdom by keeping himself healthy and wise than by rushing out with his sword to attack anyone who threatens it… and proper diplomacy is always a wise tactic… so guard your tongue carefully when around other monarchs… especially those to which your consort is related, haha…

“All in all, sweet king, we are sure this will be an excellent year for you… we wish you and yours all the best… may you be hale and hearty as the world turns…”

2022 World Sleep Day: Sleep well to live well

Tired minds don’t plan well. Sleep first, plan later

– Walter Reisch (1903-1983), Austrian Director and Screenwriter

No one sleeps less and lives well, no! The quality of a man’s health and life is largely determined by the quality of his sleep. A healthy life is a reflection of good quality sleep, while the opposite reflects poor insufficient sleep. Certain habits of modern life have taken away sleep from us as humans. Most people go about with the wrong notion that he who sleeps for the recommended sleep hours at night is lazy or jobless. It is completely untrue as those who sleep less daily aren’t mentally refreshed for proper daily activities. Those who deprive themselves of quality sleep always (will someday) break down and the rest that sleep ought to have provided will be forced by then. Their bodies would demand sleep at the wrong time as nature cannot be cheated.

On March 18, 2022, the annual event of World Sleep Day was celebrated across the globe. The day is held the Friday before Spring Vernal Equinox (also called March Equinox, which marks the start of spring) of each year. The World Sleep Day reminds everyone who cares about their health to take action on important issues relating to sleep. It is a global awareness act that celebrates sleep and attempts to help those with various sleep challenges. The day also serves as a gentle reminder to everyone, who is experiencing sleep disorders, as it proffers better ways in the management of sleep.

The slogan for this year’s World Sleep Day, Quality Sleep, Sound Mind, Happy World, is a pointer to the fact that the role sleep plays in life cannot be overemphasised. Good health is not guaranteed without a sound mind that is only provided by good sleep. It’s not just a nap; it’s not just ordinary sleep; it’s the quality of sleep that can supply the body with the nourishment it needs to become healthy.

It is recommended that adults make it a priority to get at least seven hours of nightly sleep in order to give the body the desired rest for refreshed functioning the next day. Experts say sleep helps the body and brain to function properly because it improves one’s learning, memory, decision-making and creativity. When the brain functions properly, there is an overall increase in concentration and productivity occasioned by a good intelligent quotient. One who sleeps well at night performs well in the day. The theme for World Sleep Day this year is making a clear statement that the world at large can be happy if everyone has a sound mind that only quality sleep gives.

That sleep is the major activity that keeps the body hale and hearty is not an overstatement. It is an essential function that allows your body and mind to be fully recharged. Sleep is extremely important because it builds and repairs the body. It helps to reduce stress levels as well. The immune system becomes stronger and it is well maintained with the help of good sleep. Sleeping well supports overall growth and development of the body. There is no better way to enjoy reduced risk of diabetes, healthier skin, fewer headaches and rapid muscle toning than to sleep well. One’s problem-solving skills can be maximised when the body gets good sleep.

How, then, can one sleep well or sleep better? To catch good and quality sleep, make use of your bed only. Ensure you keep your bedroom cool, quiet and dark when it’s time to sleep. Avoid big or heavy meals right before bed time. To sleep better, attempt going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. To avoid sleep interruption and disturbance, turn off (or put on silence) your phones just as other sound electrical gadgets are to be placed away from the bed. One can also sleep better by engaging in regular exercises.

Poor sleepers and those who sleep less at night usually suffer from constant headaches, poor vision. They are irritable and appear to swing moods easily, unexplainably and irrationally. Not getting enough sleep for the body may result in increased anxiety, depression and other mental health complications that are not easily traceable. Sleep deprivation can result in increased risks of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. A poor sleeper is also said to have an increased risk of breast cancer.

It is important to remind us all that sleep is a human privilege and must not be misused, especially if you have it as provided by nature. Sadly, some people have become addicted to sleeplessness and hence, they have to force sleep when they need it with drugs. On health grounds, and for some other purposes, some people are administered drugs by medical practitioners to ensure sleep plays its natural role in their bodies.

Without a doubt, anyone certified healthy must be a good sleeper. Do not deprive your body of the motivation, nourishment and refreshment a good sleep provides. Whether you’re a light or deep sleeper, ensure you always have a good sleep as it will leave you refreshed and alert when you wake up. So, in order to live well and, maybe, to live long too, please sleep well.

A Health Guide to Give Your Joints Best Protection

No one is better than medical professionals when it comes to protecting the joints and keeping them in healthy condition. This blog sums up all kinds of expert advices which will certainly help you to overcome the struggles you face due to Arthritis and other joint disorders. This health guide includes easy tips that you can incorporate into your everyday life without any extra effort or difficulty. Also, to make your joints stronger you need to ensure that there is enough supply of nutrients to the cartilage tissues. For the development of cartilages, a valuable supplement called Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Supplement Complex is worth trying.

The best way to ease the strain in the joints and get rid of stiffness or non-flexibility is exercise. Apart from this, you need little modifications in your food habits and daily routine to keep the joints hale and hearty. Let us see what those changes are.

Make movements

Neither sitting all day long is suitable for your joints nor is standing. Standing for a long time, say 1 or 2 hours, puts a lot of pressure on your knee and ankle joints. If you are overweight, then it is even worse. Putting so much stress damages the cartilages and hence you need to alternate your moves frequently between sitting and standing. This will prevent swelling and stiffness in the joints. In between these two, if possible, do some simple stretching so as to increase flexibility.

Lose weight

As already mentioned in the first point, when the upper portion is heavy due to being overweight, it puts a lot of pressure on the joints of the lower portion, especially the knees. So, make a resolution to lose weight firmly as it will not only make you feel better but also improves your quality of life. Pursue a healthy weight loss program to cut those extra pounds and provide relief to your knees.

Swimming

Just like strength training and aerobic exercise, swimming also has plenty of health benefits for your joints. Taking the plunge and swimming regularly aid in maintaining joint flexibility and your range of motion.

Quit smoking

Researches reveal that non-smokers have a lower risk of fractures than those who smoke on a daily basis. This is because smoking lowers your bone mass and is a leading reason for osteoporosis. So, you need to kick the smoking habit if you want your joints to be strong and in good condition.

Boost your vitamins and calcium intake

Vitamins K, C, D and E are essential for general improvement of joint functioning. Besides, there should be enough calcium-rich food in your diet like milk, yogurt, salmon, kale etc. because it is a vital mineral for stronger bones and joints.

Making these little changes in your everyday schedule can actually bring a huge difference in your life. It improves the quality of your wellbeing. These are some easy ways to enhance your joint condition. If you want to buy the effective joint supplement Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM Supplement Complex which is produced by Healthy Joints System, you can visit Amazon online and place your order.

iPulse Immunity Booster

One drink, many benefits- that’s how Viva iPulse can be best described. This immunity booster is the perfect remedy for heart, cellular, respiratory, hepatic, vascular, cerebral, muscular skeletal problems. It makes the heart muscles stronger and aids in regulating the rhythm. Healthy fat levels are maintained thereby keeping you hale and hearty. It takes care of the respiratory problems by improving resistance against several allergies. Viva iPulse is the best health drink that augments cellular metabolism and supports homeostasis. Overall liver health is looked after with 60 ml of iPulse daily. Also, keeps a check on the GI problems by maintaining a balanced homeostasis level.   Acts as anti-cancer support by allowing body’s capability to revitalize itself. Although, iPulse’s primary function is to boost immunity but it acts as a shield to protect the health from all kinds of ailments by sustaining healthy circulation.

characterization quotes

Robin Support   See, now you're just not thinking logically. We've killed countless people in this war— what's a few more souls on the ledger? Seems like an arbitrary line to me... But all right. You're the tactician! No more unholy summoning sigils. Heck, I always obey orders! Well, except for stupid ones like "don't fight the enemy." If someone tried to tell me that, I'd cut 'em in half and feed them to the crows! Lissa Support If you don't rest up before a battle, you might find yourself resting up in a grave.   That does seem like a problem. War is killing and death, ya know? Keeping people you care about alive means making the other guy dead. Nya ha ha! Just a little touch of Henry's Super Sleepy-Time Magic! ...The nonlethal version. First you don't want any allies or enemies to die, and now BIRDIES are off the table? ...You're a strange one, Lissa. Nya ha ha! Me? Sweet? That's a new one. Besides, you're the one who's always concerned about people dying and stuff. I don't know how you do it, honestly. I couldn't go a week! I'm not much of a mood guy, I'm afraid, unless we're talking gruesome bloodshed... Well, how about this: I did get you a ring! Will that work? 

Frederick Support

I want my dying thought to be about blood! ...Or maybe ichor. H-hey, Frederick! Easy with the bear hugs! These little bones might snap like...Oh, whoa! Are you CRYING?! You really think people notice what I do around here? 'Cause I doubt it. I mean, what kind of things do they say about me now? Nya ha ha! If you lay it on any thicker, I'll be smothered to death! But I'm not training to make myself look good in front of my comrades, you know?   Well, because the more I practice, the more stuff I'm able to do. I like being good at lots of things. Sully Support Absolutely! I'll need a pound of flesh, seven fingernails, and your left kidney. Nya ha ha! I jest. A single hair will do just fine. Yep yep! That's it, all right. I can curse till I'm blue in the face, but if their will's stronger than mine? Pbbt. Aw, you're going to make me blush. I'm nothing special. Miriel Support You have? That's great! I cast hexes all the time, and I've never come up with ONE theory about them. Nya ha ha! Oh, stop it, Miriel! You'll make me blush. Although it's pretty much true. When it comes to hexing folks, I'm the master. Why, this one time at mage camp, I killed 100 people with one curse! Er, I don't remember when. ...Or where exactly. But it totally could have happened. Henry: Well, you know that town we passed through a few days ago? I saw a pregnant lady on the main street with a load of cheese and fruit in her arms. She looked pretty tired and worn out, so I stopped to help her carry her wares.     Right?! Anyway, the more I thought about it, the more I realized pregnancy is dumb. So I'm planning to help the mothers of the world by inventing a special curse. I'm gonna create a hex that conjures new kids right out of thin air! Sumia Support I'm a mage! I just wave my wand and mutter a little incantation... Humina humina humina... Presto! The busted bowls are busted no more! Yeah, it's just a temporary hex, unfortunately. Tomorrow they'll be in pieces again. But at least folks won't have to eat out of their hats tonight. Oh, that spell can certainly be used for evil. All it does is reverse time. See, so if something bad happens to someone and you cast it on them... They have to experience that same tragedy over and over again! Nya ha! Isn't it obvious? You're me, and I'm you! Clever curse, eh? Well, you're about as magic as an old sock, so this was the only way. And while you cast some hexes, I'm going to ride your pegasus all over camp! Woo-hoo! I'm gonna swoop down on people and drop stuff on their heads! Ricken Support Oh? I thought word had gotten around. Yeah, Gangrel was toppled before I got the chance to fight any real battles. A shame, too. It would've been fun to face off against the Shepherds! Then there was Mustafa. He always gave me a bag of peaches whenever I visited. He said I reminded him of his son and that I should consider myself part of his family. Yep. Dead as driftwood, they are. And it was you Shepherds who killed 'em! Their friends and families are probably still crying their eyes out. No! I'd be very sad and angry. And I'd find out who did it, hunt them down, and exact bloody revenge! ...Oh yes. There would be blood. When I was with Plegia, I didn't think much about this kind of thing. Maybe because in that army, I didn't have real friends like I do here. I guess, sure. Honestly, I'm not much good with touchy-feely stuff. You know what I'd rather talk about? The next battle! Maribelle Support Talking to the flower. She says she's very grateful that you spoke to her. Also, she says she'll stay strong as long as you do, too. I'm not feigning anything. I'm just really in touch with the natural world. I can talk to any living thing you want. Trees. Flowers. Maggots. Ooooooh... Maaaggots... Meh, not to me. Everyone kicks the bucket at some point, so why fret? See, now that I can understand. But get this—I've got a special curse ready, see? Been working on it for a while now. If you're mortally wounded, it kills you off before you suffer any pain! Just...poof. Off ya go! It's 'cause I'm not scared, Maribelle. Fighting is actually pretty simple. I just have to kill the other guy before he has a chance to kill me. Panne Support That's not very neighborly, now is it? What difference does one's religion make? I just want to be friends! Ylisse is weak enough as it is. If the exalt were assassinated, I worried they'd lose the war in a week! That would have been a terrible waste of a perfectly fun war. Er, the beast half, I guess. I love animals! I wish I could be one. Even a half one would be okay with me. My parents abandoned me in the woods when I was little. So it was mostly the nice animals there who raised me. I still love their smell. It relaxes me in a totally nostalgic sort of way. So if I went out and killed them all, could we be friends? I'm not that young, and I don't think I'm stupid. But hey, who knows, right? Cordelia Support Oooh, lucky guy. I wish someone would make ME a nice cozy scarf! Ooooooooooooooooooooooooh. Say, what if the wife was dead? Could you give it to him then? That's kind of like making yourself sad on purpose, isn't it? You want help? 'Cause I've got a curse that'll REALLY make you miserab— I asked Lissa for advice, and she told me to take you on a big shopping trip. She said a few hours trying on dresses and armor would fix that broken heart, pronto! I don't really get all this "feelings" stuff, but if you say so. Er, but if you're REALLY grateful, you could join me for a fruit pie... Nya ha! No, it's a scheme to make you fall in love with me. Nowi Support Yep! They're probably quivering in fear under their beds and crying like babies. But no worries! There'll be more victim—er, that is, village kids—at our next camp. Right. You can't actually touch her. My magic is good, but not THAT good! Hey! I spent a lot of time and effort on this, you know! Tharja Support Hee hee! Smiling? This is how I always look. Sorry! Nothing sinister over here. I'm just a hale and hearty mage. Nope! Not me! Although I do own a cloak and a couple daggers. Aw, I don't get into politics. I just want to toss fireballs at bad guys. Hey! Tharja! You forgot to remove the curse! Oh, well. I suppose it'll fizzle out eventually. La la la... Do you need a death curse? Please say you need a death curse. Yeah, dispelling curses is kind of my specialty. Right now, whoever cast that curse must be in one confused pickle! Too bad we can't be there to see it. That would be swell! Oh yeah. I guess so, huh? Although you didn't really need to put a truth curse on me, you know? I don't have anything to hide, and I've never told a lie in my life. Olivia Support You're a crazy lady. Why would I do that? I love doggies! I want to save his life! Right, boy? Who's a good boy? Aren't you glad the crazy lady wants to help us? Yes you are! Hey, that's a medical condition! Show some respect! Oh, will you look at that? It's blood! ...Wonder where it came from? *Lick* ...Oh, hey! It's MY blood! Nya ha! I must have been wounded in battle! Oh man, good times. Oh, I've got a high pain threshold. It's a genetic thing. Nerve damage. I've had a lot worse than this! When I was a kid, my parents put me in this exclusive wizard school. Well, as you can imagine, some of the experiments got a biiit out of hand. Once, I almost set my face on fire! Nya ha! Those were the days... Meh, my parents didn't care what I did as long as I wasn't expelled. Heck, the whole reason they sent me to wizard school was to get rid of me. But hey, no worries! I turned out fine! That's what all my psychiatrists said. But nope! Not true. I'm just a happy guy. Look, crazy lady. I like you. I really do. But you have GOT to let this go. I smile because I'm happy, all right? There's nothing more to it. Olivia? H-hey, Olivia. ...You being crazy again, Olivia? Olivia?! Aw, come on, Olivia! You can't die now! NOOOOO! OLIVIAAAAAA! Come back to me, Olivia! Stay out of the light! STAY OUT OF THE LIIIIIIGHT! Cherche Support Sure have! She's as cute as a button, that one. ...Well, if buttons were cute. We had wyverns in Plegia, you know, and also the occasional fell beast. But we didn't have a single wyvern that was as pretty as Minerva. Yep! I make four-legged friends wherever I go! And even some two-legged ones. I'm also pals with a three-legged bear, but that's a story for another time. Well, when I was young, my best friend in the entire world was a giant wolf. My parents ignored me most of the time, so that wolf became my whole family. Then one day she came to visit me, and some hunters in the village... They shot her full of arrows. Killed her on the spot. But they paid... Oh, how they paid... They paid in BLOOD. Er, but yes. None of my magic could bring my beautiful wolf friend back. So I guess that's why I hang out with you and Minerva. 'Cause it reminds me. I know I'm here a lot, but I always feel safe and happy when I'm with Minerva. Kellam Support I think I get it now. Seems to me you're barking up the wrong tree, tin man. Visibility isn't the problem—you're just lonely! So all we gotta do is find a way to make you stop feeling lonely! It's true. When I was a kid, my only friends were wolves, so they ended up raising me. Thing is...that made it tough for me to learn about basic human warmth and affection... Like just now. I tried to be nice to you and show you that I care and stuff, right? But I got it all wrong and instead made you freak out. Sorry about that... Gaius Support Not many, no. Back in Plegia, we hardly have any cakes or sweets at all. We don't get the plentiful harvests that Ylisseans and Feroxi enjoy. So the dishes we make are kind of basic, you know? Nothing like those, anyhow. Yup. It's hard to make cakes out of turnips, though that doesn't stop people trying! Anyway, the point is, I've never seen so many tasty-looking treats all in one place! Well, thanks for showing me your treasures, Gaius. It's been lots of fun! ...Oh, I almost forgot! I brought something to show you too! Yeah...something like that! They're baked in special ceremonies as offerings to Grima. Never eaten one myself, but as you're the expert, I figured you'd like to try it! Libra Support Like, I dunno...you're a priest, but you wield a weapon and smash people with it, right? I bet it causes you all kinds of anguish to have to splatter the life out of others! Aren't you overthinking things a little? A weapon's just a tool for killing! Wouldn't it be a whole lot easier to just accept that and move on? Who knows—you might wind up like me and start to really savor the joys of slaying! I mean, when you get down to it, aren't you and I both doing the exact same thing? I mean, I guess it's hard for an altruist like yourself to respect an egoist like me, but... They do, huh? Well, I don't believe in the gods, so it doesn't really matter what they think! (in response to Libra calling him out for saving other people) ...

Horoscope Today: Astrological prediction for November 19, what’s in store for Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer and other zodiac signs - more lifestyle

Is it easy to strive for something and attain it? Most of you would say ‘No’. Obstacles which are not expected show up in our way. One cannot control their destiny. But, with the help of horoscopes, we definitely can prepare for any adversities coming our way. Let’s checkout today’s horoscopes.* Aries (March 21-April 20): Those selling property may have to hunt for the right customers for a good bargain. You are likely to derive immense satisfaction by involving yourself on the social front. Financially, you need to remain a bit conservative. Fortune shines on those playing the stocks or involved in betting. Household chores may appear boring for homemakers craving for a change. Commuting can pose a problem for those going to far off places for work or studies, but it will be overcome. An aggravated condition of those unwell will show definite signs of improvement. Love Focus: Someone who likes you may go out of the way for you, is it romance calling?Lucky Colour: Electric GreyLucky Alphabet: MFriendly Numbers: 3, 6, 9Friendly Zodiac Today: Pisces & LibraBe careful of: Leo* Taurus (April 21-May 20): Possession of a house or a flat booked by you is possible. You will be able to impress those around with your gift of the gab. Your efforts on the physical front will find you hale and hearty. You will manage to consolidate your chances for financial gains. Those having their own set-up can spend the day in hiring some new employees. Your hope of spending a relaxing time at home may get upset with the arrival of some guests. It is best to avoid busy roads today. Love Focus: You manage to come nearer an opposite number with whom only have casual acquaintance. Lucky Colour: Light GreenLucky Alphabet: KFriendly Numbers: 2, 4, 6Friendly Zodiac Today: Cancer & ScorpioBe careful of: Libra* Gemini (May 21-Jun 21): Saving money for buying landed property may be on the mind of some right now. Those wishing to study overseas are likely to overcome all financial difficulties. It may seem difficult to get rid of an ailment permanently. Worries on the financial front, if any, can be conveniently laid to rest, as profits accrue. Weigh the pros and cons carefully before absenting yourself from office for personal work. Travel only if you need to. An exciting day is foreseen when out of town friends or relations arrive. Love Focus: Your endeavour to get close to the one you love will be a total success, provided you play your cards well. Lucky Colour: LavenderLucky Alphabet: JFriendly Numbers: 3, 6, 9Friendly Zodiac Today: Libra & AriesBe careful of: Virgo* Cancer (Jun 22-July 22): Good preparation will find some students faring beyond their expectations. Ignore what happened in the past You can feel mentally disturbed today due to something that happened in the past. Earning good money is foretold in a venture that you are starting. You can be praised today at work for a job well done. A change on the domestic front through renovation or resetting can become a prolonged affair. Avoid busy roads and don’t drive a vehicle you are not confident of. It is not a good day to buy a house or propertyLove Focus: Despite spending time together with lover, you can feel hesitant to broach a subject close to your heart. Lucky Colour: YellowLucky Alphabet: HFriendly Numbers: 11, 12, 15Friendly Zodiac Today: Virgo & CancerBe careful of: Aries* Leo (July 23-August 23): Family’s support and concern will be most encouraging. This is a good time for those planning a visit to relatives or friends. House searchers may come across an excellent bargain. Students wanting to go in for higher studies will be able to raise a loan without much difficulty. Those ailing for sometime will show positive signs as they progress on the road to recovery. You will be able to manage your finances well and save too. A pat on the back at work cannot be ruled out for some. Love Focus: Love may begin to pull at your heartstrings, but to succeed you will have to play your cards really well! Lucky Colour: Deep Sky BlueLucky Alphabet: DFriendly Numbers: 5, 12, 17Friendly Zodiac Today: Libra & CancerBe careful of: Virgo* Virgo (August 24-September 23): Good news is in the offing that can make homemakers happy. A place you had always wanted to visit will soon become a reality. Shifting residence to a new location is possible. Those preparing for a tough examination can find themselves on a sticky wicket.A healthy alternative will help you remain in perfect shape. Your ideas on the financial front may not be hundred percent sound, so take a second opinion. Things start looking brighter on professional front. Love Focus: Efforts will be required to get a romantic relationship ticking again. Lucky Colour: Dark GreyLucky Alphabet: GFriendly Numbers: 5, 27Friendly Zodiac Today: Sagittarius & ScorpioBe careful of: Leo* Libra (September 24-October 23): You will get a chance to go for a long drive in your new vehicle. A house rented out is likely to give good returns. Those feeling under the weather will find themselves on the road to complete recovery. Getting hooked to Junk food should not be in your mind. You will need to compensate someone well on the monetary front on a short notice. A new deal is likely to be signed, which will make you financially stronger. Efforts will be required to retain peace and quiet on the home frontLove Focus: Friends may try to connect you with someone you have a crush on. Lucky Colour: CreamLucky Alphabet: NFriendly Numbers: 4, 6Friendly Zodiac Today: Capricorn & ScorpioBe careful of: Virgo* Scorpio (October 24-November 22): Chance to travel overseas on an official trip is likely for some. A property issue gets resolved amicably. Don’t commit something that you cannot do on the social front, as it can undermine your reputation. Perfect health will enable you to enjoy an evening out to the hilt! Your financial situation remains stable. Some additional perks at work are likely to be granted. Tackling a nagging domestic issue will not be too difficult for you. Love Focus: A passion-filled evening is foreseen for some, as romantic front brightens. Lucky Colour: RedLucky Alphabet: KFriendly Numbers: 5, 14Friendly Zodiac Today: Virgo & SagittariusBe careful of: Gemini* Sagittarius (November 23-December 21): An official trip is likely to bring in a good deal. Some of you may be in the final stages of acquiring property. This is a good day to meet people in your social circle. Choosing the best from several health options may confuse you. Saving money is important, so curb all wasteful expenditures. Those into side business will find the day profitable. Catering to spouse’s mood today will help keep domestic harmony intact. Love Focus: Professing your undying love for your sweetheart may not cut ice as you continue to get the cold shoulder.Lucky Colour: Light YellowLucky Alphabet: MFriendly Numbers: 11, 26Friendly Zodiac Today: Libra & ScorpioBe careful of: Taurus* Capricorn (December 22-January 21): Property is likely to give good returns. This is an excellent day that makes you lucky in every sphere. You manage to keep a positive mental outlook. You can be compelled to touch your savings for financing something urgent. You can be given an additional charge of something important at work. Something may not be to your liking on the home front, but you will be unable to do anything about it. Religious minded are likely to plan on a pilgrimage. Love Focus: Your romantic life gets a boost with an exciting development.Lucky Colour: PinkLucky Alphabet: NFriendly Numbers: 11, 27Friendly Zodiac Today: Sagittarius & VirgoBe careful of: Aries* Aquarius (January 22-February 19): Travelling with loved ones on a vacation will prove most exhilarating. You may need to get resources to carryout improvements in an ancestral property. You will need to be more outgoing on the social front, if you want to maintain your contacts. Those feeling depressed for sometime will find positivity entering their lives once again. Make it a habit to save, irrespective of what you earn. Professionally, the day augurs well for the salaried. Something you say or do may hurt spouse or a family member, so watch out. Love Focus: Surprising spouse with the tickets to a movie or theatre can make the day for you. Lucky Colour: IndigoLucky Alphabet: TFriendly Numbers: 15, 11Friendly Zodiac Today: Scorpio & CapricornBe careful of: Cancer* Pisces (February 20-March 20): A workplace issue is resolved in your favour. Some differences with spouse or a family member may crop up, but don’t let the situation turn ugly. An outing will be a welcome break from your hectic routine. You may have to go deep into your pocket for a real estate deal. Those hoping for good results will not be disappointed. Don’t take any chances on the health front today. Conserving money will be in your interest at this juncture. Love Focus: Your unique idea to appease partner may fall flat, so don’t even try!Lucky Colour: LemonLucky Alphabet: DFriendly Numbers: 4, 6Friendly Zodiac Today: Aries & LibraBe careful of: GeminiThe astrologer can be contacted at [email protected] or [email protected] more stories on Facebook and Twitter Source link Read the full article

Pairing: Mard Geer/Lucy Series: Fairy Tail

Chapter 3 is finally out!  It’s almost 2k.  Link above, and the fic is below the cut.

Teardrops Are Racing Our Stopwatch Our Hope Is In A Headlock Tomorrow Always Comes Too Soon

-Seven Lions "Way To Say Goodbye"

Previously...

Phoenix lifted her head from the stone tiles, water pouring from her eyes and running down her face - her wrinkles canals of saltwater.

"Kill my summoner."

Lucy recoiled from the spirit, her feet carrying her backwards until her back collided with Ortez, and she wobbled. Warm hands steadied her shoulders, but she barely registered the contact - her eyes fixated, unblinking, on the still bowing spirit. "K-kill?" she stuttered. Her heart hammered in her rib-cage. "You want me to... to what?"

The old spirit's form shuddered with every breath she took, but she held Lucy's gaze with rock steady determination and steel behind her eyes. "I need you to kill the last person to summon me. You are the only one I can ask - there is no one else that bears the trust of the Celestial King, and the requisite power to carry the task out."

Lucy continued to stare at the spirit. She swallowed thickly, unable to string along a sentence.

Kill someone? Her? Why would a spirit ever ask this of her? Let alone a spirit she didn't even have a contract with.

Beside Phoemix, Corvus shifted uncomfortably as the stare-off went too long, sweat beading on his skin. It was clear he would rather be anywhere other than in the middle of this. "Um... Grandmother. Maybe you should... should explain the situation more," the crow spirit suggested. "And... um... maybe we should get some cushions before my new key holder keels over!" A high pitched, garbled noise of pure distress emanated from his throat. "I can't believe she pulled this right from the get go, oh stars why is this happening why are old people like this?!" he said, words tumbling out of his mouth like an unstopped spigot.

Phoenix's eyes narrowed, and her head whipped around to glare at her grandson. "Old people are what now?"

"Not meant to be sitting on the ground so long! You know, creaky joints and all." Corvus spun on his heels, striding towards a partition woven from starlight that Lucy had mistaken for another part of the scenery. "So I'll go get cushions!"

Softly, the old spirit sighed, her gaze refocusing on Lucy's petrified body. "My grandson has a point. I must apologize - that was far too abrupt, and unspeakably rude. Would you care for some tea?"

Lucy didn't move, her tongue locked away behind her tightly clenched jaw.

"Thank you for the offer," Ortez spoke in her place, the proximity of his voice startling Lucy out of her stupor. "Although I would very much enjoy the opportunity to partake of tea from the Celestial World... it seems there are more urgent matters afoot."

Withdrawing a handkerchief, Phoenix dabbed her face with the cloth. "Nonsense," she huffed. "You are guests."

Guests whom she was asking to kill someone on her behalf.

"Aside from which, I already made it," Corvus added, returning with the promised cushions. Swiftly, he positioned them, and then helped his grandmother onto one. "I'll be... right back with that. Make yourselves comfortable."

They did so, and Lucy quietly thanked Ortez. To which he merely smiled kindly, and said, "You're most welcome, my dear."

Once they were settled, and the tea sitting in steaming cups before them, Yukino was the first to break the silence. "Forgive me, Phoenix-sama. But there's something I don't quite understand. Aside from anyone wanting Lucy-sama to kill someone, I mean."

The celestial mage was grateful that Yukino felt the same as her on that part. The tension had mostly drained out of the room with Corvus's nervous rambling earlier, but it was slowly seeping back into all those present.

"Yes?"

"I was under the impression that none of the Ghost keys had been summoned for a very, very long time. So I'm not sure how Lucy even could fulfill your request."

Yukino's words brought life back to her friend. "Yeah, thanks Yukino." Lucy stared hard at the two spirits sitting before her - one calm and stern, the other flushed and fidgeting. Though he was her grandson, Corvus possessed little of Phoenix's composure at the topic of discussion. "Grandpa Crux is never wrong when it comes to the history of Celestial Spirits. He said that it had been over 75 years since Corvus was last called upon, and I trust what he told me. In which case I would have to assume that your summoner is very, very old."

Phoenix help up her sleeve to cover her mouth, but the crinkling at the corners of her eyes gave away her amusement. "Indeed. My grandson was the most recently summoned of the Ghost keys. I was last summoned... what year is it in your world, again?"

"Year X791," George offered, speaking for the first time since they'd arrived in the Celestial World. "This tea is most excellent. Might I trouble you in taking home some of the leaves?"

"Certainly. I am pleased you find it suitable to your palate."

Corvus cleared his throat, trying to nudge Phoenix back onto the prior topic.

"There is always time for pleasantries, grandson," she stated.

"This is coming from the woman who skipped them and jumped straight into ordering a hit...?" His mouth snapped shut at a pointed look from Phoenix. The second she looked away, he muttered, "I'm just saying. People normally... work... their way up to that."

He was ignored.

"If the year is X791..." Phoenix said, thinking it over. "Then I suppose it must have been around four centuries since I was last in Earthland." She took a long sip of her tea.

The group collectively stared in silence for several moments.

"...Eh?" Lucy uttered, hardly processing the revelation.

Humming, Phoenix nodded. Her eyes were unfocused - her mind far away from where they sat. "Yes... a little over four centuries. Give or take a couple of decades. I was quite the spry young thing back then. Earthland was beautiful, and vast. So much to see, and Caelestis and I were determined to see it all. He... he promised me that we would." Her gaze drifted to her tea, clasped in her wrinkled, age-worn hands, riddled with spots. "Twas not to be, I'm afraid."

Something about the way she looked at herself, in the regret and sorrow in her voice, tugged at Lucy's heartstrings. "Please," she implored. "Please tell me why you want me to do this."

"It's a long, long story," Phoenix said. "And so much happened that I... I know how differently time flows between our worlds, and there isn't much time left for this to be resolved, if it can be. So please, excuse my hastiness earlier. I won't bore you with all the details, but you do deserve to know why."

Nodding, Lucy clutched her warm teacup. "Please."

"I misspoke before, when I asked you to kill him. That's not precisely what I want."

Lucy's brow furrowed in confusion. "I don't understand."

"You see... my summoner already is dead. He has been for centuries." Phoenix closed her eyes in pain. "He was murdered, while I was out on an errand." Tears began to slide down her face once more. "My friend needed me there to protect him, and I was running an errand."

Corvus placed a hand on her shoulder. "Grandmother..."

Phoenix set the cup down, and covered his hand with one of her own. "I'm alright." She patted his hand, and let it fall to the table. Then she opened her eyes again, and stared straight through Lucy. "The issue here is who murdered him. For after our contract severed, I heard from other spirits that they'd seen Caelestis. By all appearances, hale and hearty."

Lucy's stomach dropped to her toes. "I... I don't know how to say this... But are you sure the contract was broken by death? That he didn't just... end it for some reason?" She hated the idea - of cutting off a spirit without a single word of farewell, or explanation why. It went against her very grain. But there were celestial mages out there like that. Angel and Karen had proven just how brutal celestial mages could be.

But Phoenix shook her head. "Caelestis's student, Skaldra, found blood. Too much of it for him to have survived. No... my summoner was murdered, and his body was taken away. Skaldra never stopped searching for Caelestis, and one day... he found him. Or... what remained of him." Phoenix's gaze had hardened, a cold fire in her eyes. "It seems my summoner was murdered by a necromancer." She continued on, unheedful of her audience's shock, and her tone detached - as if she were recalling a fact from a textbook, instead of recounting the defilement of her friend. "Even dead, Caelestis was too strong for his student to handle. So Skaldra fled. I couldn't even bring myself to blame the boy. He idolized Caelestis. Later, Skaldra died as well, and I lost my last link to what happened to Caelestis. I've kept my ear to the ground, however. And from what I've been able to piece together, it seems as if he's still walking around now, long past the inevitable death of the necromancer that raised him up."

"So..." Lucy choked on her words. "So when you asked me to kill your summoner..."

"I meant, 'kill him again,'" Phoenix finished softly. "Please... I just wish for him to rest in peace. Even if nothing of him remains still inside that corpse. I just want him to be laid to rest, at long last. It's my only wish in this world."

Dumbfounded by the weight of the request, Lucy couldn't help the sympathetic tears that filled her eyes. "That's so not fair," she whispered. "That's so not fair that... that happened to you. To him." She sniffed, and set her jaw in determination. "I will do it," she stated, her voice stronger from the strength of her conviction. "I will lay Caelestis to rest, and give both of you the peace you deserve."

Reaching out to her, the ancient spirit clasped Lucy's hands in hers. "Thank you. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart."

Preoccupied, neither of the pair caught Corvus's perturbed stare, deep worry etched into every line of his body.

And I'll Hold Onto Every Piece Of You That I Made Up In My Mind Until I Find A Way To Say Goodbye

-Seven Lions "Way To Say Goodbye"