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#Honoring God through prayer and worship
upstatechristian · 2 years
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Verse of the Day 9-16-22
Verse of the Day 9-16-22
Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. James 5:13 Regardless of our circumstances, we should look to God and consider how we can honor him through worship and prayer. When you are experiencing trouble, need or distress, God’s Word invites you to look to him for strength through prayer. Jesus serves as your mediator, representing your…
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DPXDC Prompt. Dead on main with priest Jason: Father Todd brings the Ghost King’s cult into the World of the Living.
So, when Jason dies and returns, the League of Assassins fails to hold him for long because spirits from Far Frozen pick him up after seeing teen through the Lazarus pit.
Jason quickly realizes that, well, they’re kinda obsessed with their cult of the Great One. And yeah the cult of the ruling Ghost King was very popular during the reign of the Pariah Dark but back then the rituals were carried out more out of fear. Now things are different. The population of the Ghost Zone has become interested in the activities of Frostbite and his loyal spirits because of an attempt to understand what kind of ghost the new ruler is and how best to thank and appease him. So Jason had no shortage of stories about the teenager's deeds.
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Jason to Frostbite: Well, you guys and your lil hobby are nice but I don't understand at all what's so cool about this guy, even if he defeated Pariah Dark and gets along with most of the Ancients…
Danny: *comes to visit Frostbite*, *slips and falls three times, sets the kitchen on fire in an attempt to make coffee then sheepishly smiles at Jason*.
Jason to Frostbite: ... Okay, Understandable, I Hope Danny Has a Nice Day and Some Sleep.
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Tucker: Congratulations, you've acquired another Paulina. Great job. Danny: I'd rather he just asked me out instead of worshipping me. What the hell? I'm just a semi-ghost.
Tucker: Maybe things would be easier if you just gave him your phone number, you know? Danny: But he didn't ask. Tucker: Why didn't you ask? Danny: I couldn't! He's Robin himself, you know? Tucker: Well, good luck to you idiots to grow old alone near the altars of each other's name. Danny: Actually lil altar in his honor is not such a bad idea. Maybe this way he'll understand that I like him too.. Tucker: Danny, no!
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New in Gotham robbers break into Jason's place: Hey, father, God ordered you to share with your neighbors, so bring us some money or we.. Jason, who is talking on the phone with Danny: In fact, he just said that if you don't get out of here now, he will turn a blind eye to the fact that I will use my guns.
Danny*screams internally*: Oh Ancients, he's sooo cool!
Pandora: Honey, we're happy for you but stop flooding us with spam. You have already told 5 times during prayer how good his abs and chest look and how perfect Todd is when he reads aloud. We get it, okay? Clockwork: Well, I actually enjoy it. It's so much more interesting to watch while listening to the internal dialogue. Show must go on~ Danny: ...Get out of my mind! Nocturn: Thou shalt not take the name of the Lords in vain if you don't want to share with us, lil blob. So rude.
~~~Team Song: You Are My Religion · Firehouse~~~~
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targaryen-dynasty · 4 months
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YOU‘RE THE ONLY THING I PRAY FOR. (1/3)
Daemon Targaryen x niece!Reader
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WARNINGS: SEXUAL CONTENT — MINORS DNI; NON/DUB-CON, canon typical incest/targcest (uncle & niece), blasphemy, taking of virginity, female reader
WORDS: 4.6 K
NOTES: Part 1 is here! At the anon that has requested it: thank you so much for this. I hope it lives up to your expectations.
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Daylight has first appeared when you break your fast, completely dressed and ready to start the day by paying a visit to the Grand Sept. It’s one of the rare days the queen does not accompany you for your morning prayer as her queenly duties have called for her even before the first light. But you bask in the rare solitude her absence grants, looking forward to the time you get to spend all by yourself. 
A carriage waits for you as you walk down the steps of the Red Keep leading into the courtyard, the door already opened and a servant anticipating for you to get in. 
“And where might you be going so quickly?” You know the voice that pierces through the silence of the morning, and are not surprised when you turn around to spot your uncle approaching. He’s clad in a white tunic and black breeches, looking as though he has just gotten out of bed.
Bobbing a small curtsy, the slight bow of your head does little to hide the surge of warmth that spreads to your cheeks, trying to suppress the nervous smile his presence always coaxes from you. 
It could be mere happenstance that you two meet right when you’re about to leave the keep, but something deep inside of you tells you he’s more than familiar with your morning routine. 
“I was just heading to the sept to pray, uncle,” you reply, your eyes locking with his as he creeps closer. 
The smirk that grazes his features at your words sends a shiver down your spine because it doesn’t mean any good; it never means any good. “And what is it that you pray for exactly, sweet niece?” he asks in a playful tone, raising a brow. His head cocks to the side, and he sizes you up briefly. “Does a princess such as you pray for love? Pray for a husband?” 
Despite the rush of embarrassment you feel when he makes his comments, you can’t deny the truth in them. “I pray for many things…” you trail off, pressing your lips into a thin line and contemplating if you should elaborate further. But the ultimate act of piety is to be honest, genuine, and you know it’ll surprise him more than a snappish remark. “I pray for the love of my family, as well as my own. Though I must admit that what I pray for most is to be married one day, and provide my husband with a healthy heir.” 
He must have noticed the way your eyes trail up and down his tall frame throughout your little lecture, despite you having your neck craned to meet his gaze, because his brow doesn’t seem to lower at all, staying in its exact position as he’s seemingly impressed by your words and your honesty. However, there’s also a pregnant pause following them, and you brace yourself for whatever taunting or derogatory comment might follow. 
“Might I join you?” 
The question catches you off guard, and causes you to tilt your head sideways. 
Pious isn’t a term you would use to describe your uncle. If he believed in anything, he’d merely worship the Gods of Old Valyria and would not follow the Faith of the Seven. Nevertheless, you’re thrilled he even considers accompanying you to the Grand Sept, because you’re certain he’s never seen it from inside. 
“I would be honored by you joining me, uncle,” you say, smiling softly. “I would not have to pray alone.”
“It would please me greatly, niece.” His eyes run over your form, lingering a little longer on your middle, clearly taking in your curves and attire. The dress you wear is completely different to the ones your younger sister usually wears, and comes closer to the gowns the queen dons nowadays. It’s modest and covers you completely, basically from head to toe. 
Mayhaps that’s where he sees the challenge. 
You briefly nod your head, and take his hand as he offers to help you into the carriage, climbing the steps before sitting down on one of the upholstered seats. You make note of how warm and unexpectedly smooth his hand is when you let go of it, having expected it to be calloused and somewhat rough from all the riding on dragon back and training with the sword he does. 
Daemon takes his seat next to you, and it’s evident you have all of his attention with him not tearing his eyes off of you once. What you don’t know is that he’s always found a liking in you. You’re sweet and innocent, demure even, and the complete opposite to Rhaenyra. 
More oft than not you make your uncle feel as though you really do not deserve an unvirtuous man such as himself, just as your father has told him back when Daemon had asked him to grant him your hand in marriage. You’re a girl that has never taken a man’s touch before, innocent in both mind and body – a vision obviously tantalizing to many men of court.
He looks over you once more. You feel his gaze burning into your skin regardless of how badly you focus on what you see passing on the outside of the wheelhouse, and you can’t deny that you would love nothing more than to learn of what’s occupying his mind. 
The ride to the sept isn’t too long, and shared in silence thick with tension. When the carriage comes to a stop and a servant opens the door, you rise from your seat and climb down the steps. Your hands are clasped in front of your body on the way into the Grand Sept, closely followed by the looming presence of your uncle. 
And you immediately feel at peace when you walk through the heavy doors held open by several guards, breathing in the scent of incense and relishing in the quiet it brings. Though there is no reason for you to feel flustered with the company of your uncle, having grown up around him, your heart still feels as though it beats too fast, pounding against the confines of your ribcage. 
The truth is, you have not prayed for any husband – you have prayed for him to become your husband. And every single one of your prayers resolved around the wish for him to join you some day. The Grand Sept is your home port, giving you a sense of safety and being the place you always return to. And what could be better than sharing this feeling with the person your heart and body long for?
You nod subtly toward the few septas and novices that cross your path on the way to the large stone altar in the center of the sept, attempting to not draw too much attention to you and the prince that trails closely behind. 
Rolling one of the thin vestas between your index finger and thumb, you carefully set it alight with a candle that’s already lit before you proceed to light your own. The small piece of wood is extinguished with a soft blow of air, and you brush your fingers over the sheet of wax that covers the gray marble beneath, watching the sea of lights in front of you. 
“Have you been in the sept before, uncle?” you ask, innocently. It might seem like a witless question, but is completely fair considering you have never really seen him pray before. 
You are not oblivious to just how different you are from your own kin, for neither your father, uncle nor sister frequent the sept, let alone pray before they break their fast or eat their supper. 
When they’d ask you, you’d say that the contrast between you and Daemon is the most blatant, closely followed by the differences you and Aemond have. Though your younger half-brother, more oft than not, resolves to praying, you know it’s just to please his devout mother. 
If anything, you most resemble Alicent, despite not sharing the same blood with her. She has taken you under her wing as your mother died birthing your late brother, strengthening your very being with her own faith. 
Daemon chuckles at your question, following after you to the stone altar. It’s an easy game for him to pretend to be pious, having resorted to colder measures many times before. “I will admit that I do not frequent the sept as much as you. It’s just…,” he trails off, looking around the room and taking in the architecture. “... not exactly to my liking. I much prefer the worship of the Old Gods of Valyria.” 
Just like you have thought. It’s tempting to worship and follow the customs your very ancestors have set up and believed in, bringing you closer to what ties you to the family whose love you always pray for. But where were these Gods when you needed them most?
“But doesn’t everyone in King’s Landing worship the Seven? Do you not think them worthy of your devotion?” you ask, cocking a brow as you slowly sink to your knees. You still look up at him, but already fold your hands to prepare for the prayer. 
Daemon watches you carefully, no, he blatantly stares at you, taking you in and watching you on your knees from his level of height. It’s exciting, to say the least. “Oh, I do not consider them unworthy, they have been worshipped in Westeros for centuries, but you can not expect me to deny my heritage, niece.”
It’s your heritage as well, and it includes the customs that would allow for you to wed the man you have always longed for. That is, if you were not betrothed already. 
The marriage to Jason Lannister, like your father has requested, is the most fitting option, you know. It’s no match made out of love but rather a political arrangement, and doesn’t heed your own wishes. 
He’s no more a man that deserves you than your uncle, though the prospect and thoughts of marrying Daemon do excite you more. Perhaps this excitement stems from the suppressed desire of wanting the opposite of your pious nature, something that would make you feel alive as much as riding Silverwing does. 
But your uncle isn’t interested in taking you to wife. His late wife died a few moons ago, and if someone has always had his attention and favor, it’s your younger sister, Rhaenyra. 
Flashing you a tight-lipped smile, he approaches one of the pews close to the altar and sits down. You focus on the candles in front of you and fix the flames of them to watch them dance, calming you down and bringing you back to the matter at hand; your morning prayer. 
But under the intensity of his stare, you find it incredibly difficult to focus on your wishes and steady your thoughts, and you rely on the Seven for their guidance. The direction in which your thoughts stray is improper and silently proscribed by the people of the realm, and you haven’t spent all of these mornings in the sept to let it all go to waste with the foolish wish to follow your House's customs. 
Lowering your head, you quietly speak your prayers and plead for the Seven to see you in good favor before them despite the sins that may come upon you in the future. 
Your uncle, on the other hand, only now realizes that this is the best time he could wish for to get you alone, all by yourself with no one to interrupt. And as the wait for you to finish your prayers doesn’t stop to pass agonizingly slowly, he’s overtaken by his urges and begins to quietly approach you. 
You’re in the midst of your prayer when you feel a sudden presence in your space. Opening your eyes, you spot him sinking down on his knees right next to you, his broad shoulder brushing yours in the process, pressing against your frame. 
He’s so close to you that you feel the warmth emanating from him despite the layers of clothing. “You have been so faithful to the Seven,” he whispers with a rasp, keeping his eyes neatly trained on you. “It is only right that they finally grant you something in return…”
There are goosebumps prickling on your skin at his words, the sensation even raising the hairs on the back of your neck. 
Despite growing up around him, you have never shared such close proximity with him before, at least not since you can remember. It feels so intimate, and the way in which he speaks makes it more than obvious that it’s plain profanity. 
Daemon is clearly taking advantage of your piety, and twists your words and beliefs into something much more impure. 
But it seems that your body renders what your mind doesn't. It knows what he is up to even before you can grasp it, and you suddenly notice the uncomfortable way your smallclothes cling to the apex of your legs, a cold moisture making the linen sticky. 
You can’t speak, far too absorbed in his presence, and barely notice that he’s slowly inching towards you, until the tips of your noses brush against each other. 
Daemon is not moving closer, basking you in a sense of feigned superiority that gives you the impression that you’re the one in control. If you’re about to kiss, it’s because you want to do so, at least he’s making you think that. But by the Seven, how badly you want to kiss him. 
You’re the one to close the gap between you and press your lips firmly to his. You feel the warmth of them against yours, and are overtaken by a haze. You have never expected this to be the result of your joint visit to the Grand Sept, and you feel as though you're melting with a jolt of heat – until a cloud of panic washes over you. 
Pulling back with a gasp, you topple over on your arse, grateful for the space it puts between the two of you. You bring your fingers to your lips, touching them as if you mean to prolong the feeling of his lips on yours. 
“I-I do not wish to be a prude, but…” you try to deny his advances. You don’t know where to look, eyes frantically flickering to the ground, the ceiling, and even checking if anyone is around to see what has happened. 
Daemon licks his lips with a sigh, and you see him contemplating his next moves, the silence making your heart pound in your ears. “You’re a pious woman,” he raps, or rather just states the obvious. 
And then he slowly stalks closer again, only to bury a large hand in the hair at the back of your head, using the grip to bring you closer to him again. “Why have the Gods made me love a pious woman?” 
You’re holding onto his shoulders, not sure if you want to draw him impossibly closer or push him away. Your wide eyes carefully study his features, before he leans in and starts to press kisses to the side of your face that leave you whimpering and mewling.
Daemon has his strong arms wrapped around your frame to pull you flush against his chest now, and you’re squirming and panting, trying to get away from him while his hands make quick work of pulling and tearing at the skirts of your dress already. 
“Un-Uncle… not here, please,” you try to protest. 
He brings a hand to your cheek, turning your face so it’s easier for him to capture your lips in a heated kiss again. It takes all the strength you can muster to pull away from him, not just physically, but mentally. The long suppressed part in you is at an all time high, aching for nothing else than him. 
“We-We can’t,” you stammer, completely out of breath. “Not here.”
“I do not see why not, niece,” he all but growls. “Do you not want the Seven to witness how I worship you?”
The words make your face grow hot. The thought of the Seven watching over you is taboo and wrong, but it also makes it a lot more exciting. It has been an idea you have long desired, and to hear it spoken out loud from his own lips makes a thrill of excitement course through your veins. 
“B-But I-I have never–” your voice is reduced to a whimper, the despair audible.
Daemon paws at your hips, and brings his face closer to press open mouthed kisses to the side of your neck. “I will worship you in a way they have never experienced, I can promise you that,” his husky voice is muffled by your skin, and all you can do is blush in return. 
He backs you against the column of the altar behind you, trapping you so he can use both his hands to snake beneath your gown and tear at the linen undergarments you wear, reducing the barrier that stands between him and his most prized possession. 
“Uncle, Daemon, please… the sept is not the right place for this.”
“I'll decide where I take you,” he growls once again. It’s the first time your name slips past his lips today, spoken in such a condescending manner that immediately makes you bow to his will. “And if I wanted to take your maidenhead right in front of your father, then so be it.”
You push at his chest, but at the same time melt against his sturdy frame when his lips claim yours. The fabric of his tunic is pinched so tightly between your fingers that your knuckles start to blanch from the force, acting as the means to an end to distract you from the shame you feel at giving into him so easily. 
Daemon bows his head forwards to nuzzle his nose along your cheek, his breath hot as he speaks. “You’re such a dutiful woman, always praying for a husband and a life filled with children. Why not pray for me? Would that not be the most honorable of outcomes?”
You can’t think for yourself, swept up by his words, his charms and his possessiveness. He’s brought you to the edge, and you can’t find yourself able to resist. 
“Uncle, I–”  
“Be quiet,” he cuts you off. 
So lost in his overwhelming presence, you hardly register him undoing the laces in the front of his breeches, only just lowering them enough for him to free his hard cock. Once that’s done, he lays you onto the cold floor, and positions himself between your legs, which brings you close enough to his cock to feel it prodding against your cunt. 
You can’t breathe, not when you’re basically smothered by his weight, pinning you down to the ground and not allowing you to move. There’s no chance for you to meet his gaze, for he’s far too distracted to keep his eyes locked on one position only. 
“You’re a dragon, sweet niece,” he grunts. “That cunt of a Lannister would not know how to handle it… let me take care of you.”
You release a shuddered breath when the tip of his cock meets the resistance of your tightness, forcing your body to go rigid. But despite that, Daemon is able to ease himself inside of you. It takes him a few seconds to fill you to the brim, taking his sweet time to allow you to adjust to each other. 
And you sure do. 
He pushes inside at an agonizingly slow pace, allowing you to feel every ridge and vein of his cock. When his hips are still, your tight walls slowly accommodate his impressive size. But even then Daemon already knows he can’t keep this up for long, for your cunt is squeezing him so tightly, he is sure he’ll spend himself too quickly for his own liking. 
It takes you a moment, but as you feel him twitching, briefly brushing the sensitive spot inside of you, your stiff muscles seem to thaw. You arch your back against him, melting into the warmth that radiates off him. 
A quiet whine leaves your lips that prompts him to meet your gaze. “That’s it,” Daemon coos softly, a slight strain in his husky voice. He brings a hand behind your head to support it and make it a bit more comfortable for you, lifting it off the hard ground. 
Bowing his head forwards, he captures your lips in a gentle kiss. It is languid, tender even, but doesn’t lack any passion. There’s a burning inside of you, and you feel completely filled to the brim, yet it’s not as uncomfortable as the first few seconds have been. 
Perhaps it’s the possibility of being caught by your own kin or other nobles, or being defiled by him so openly, but you can’t seem to get enough. No, you don’t even mind if anyone sees you, not when all you’ve prayed for finally comes true. 
“I thought you were a pious maiden,” he rasps, immediately giving in to the pleasure and his urges, “not one that enjoys sin as much as this.” 
Though your face is contorted in both pleasure and slight discomfort, you keep your eyes open and locked with his, carefully studying his face. “I–I think the Seven would want me to be happy… would they not?” you don’t state it, you ask, silently needing his reassurance and asking for guidance. 
As he notices the hidden meaning behind your words, he flashes you a sly grin, a chuckle rumbling in his chest. “Oh, I believe as much.” 
Daemon starts to thrust into you, coaxing one whiny moan after the other from your parted lips. The pace is slow, and you can tell by the way he has his jaw set that it takes a whole lot of restraint for him to keep it that way. You know he’s an experienced man, having heard lots of stories about him and his conquests, and you appreciate him practicing patience with you. 
“Fuck, I-... you were made for me,” he groans against the side of your face, merely propped up on his forearms to not put too much weight on you. The feeling of his breath fanning over your skin, and the sounds he makes vibrating against it, ignite a fire in your veins you haven’t felt before. 
“You were always meant to be mine, but your father is too dull to see it.” Light kisses trail over your jaw and the side of your neck, meaning he can’t see the color his words bring to your cheeks. 
Entangling your fingers in his short, silver strands, you just rest your hand there to keep yourself grounded, until one particular thrust that seems a bit rougher than the others has you eventually tugging on the tresses not-so-gently. The action pulls his head back and exposes his throat to you, and it’s far too enticing to not to lean in and press your lips to the bump in the front of it. Daemon groans at that, and, in response to his cock twitching and throbbing inside of you, your walls clench around him. 
You haven’t been touched by a man before, even rarely by yourself, and thus you’re not quite familiar with the pressure that builds inside of your body. It has the grip of your legs around his waist tightening and your toes curling, but other than that you’re not quite sure what to expect. 
“Good girl, taking me so well,” he grunts, spurred on by the way your walls squeeze and choke his cock, clearly knowing you’re close to your peak. His praise goes straight to your head, and you whimper in return, stammering a ‘th-thank you, uncle.’
“Wet my cock, little niece, make a mess for me,” he all but commands, a dominant edge to his voice that has you shivering. 
Far too lost in the pleasure his body grants you, you hardly notice him driving his hips into yours with more fervor and determination, an approving ‘mhhh’ and stutters of his name escaping your lips. 
It probably is a vague guess, but Daemon’s mouth claims yours with newfound hunger as your peak washes over you in an ambush, effectively drinking down every wanton moan and whimper that has threatened to leave them. 
Something akin to fire spreads through your veins which prompts your leg to tremble uncontrollably, locking around his waist. Your walls flutter and convulse all over him, and white, hot pleasure clouds your vision. 
Only when the tremors slowly subside does your uncle tilt his head back. He watches you in awe, studying the drowsy expression on your face though the pistoning of his hips hasn’t stopped. And he won’t stop, not even when you’re no more than a quivering and whimpering mess beneath him, and you’re very close to turning into one. 
He cups your chin, pinning your head to the ground as he increases the pace of his thrusts again, using your relaxed state to chase his own peak. 
It feels overwhelming, a different kind of aching suddenly burning between your legs, and you try to squirm away, but his grip on you is as adamant as he’s relentless. 
“I shall spill myself inside of you,” he grunts, “would you like that? Do you want my seed in your belly?” 
All you can whimper are incoherent words, but are still aware enough to not be too loud. Daemon takes the benefit of the doubt and settles on a whiny yes, far too enticed by the thought of you going round with his child. 
He can’t hold himself back any longer with the repercussions of your peak driving him to his own, practically bursting as he spills his seed. His hips falter as he topples over the edge, his twitching member spending itself deep inside of your quivering walls. 
But there’s not really any time for you two to dwell in the bliss, not when Daemon gathers himself so quickly to get back on his feet. He fixes his attire, straightening his tunic and redoing the laces of his breeches before he helps you up.
You perturbedly look around, breathing heavily, and smooth out the skirts of your dress. Being unsteady on your feet, you shift your weight from one leg to the other and grimace at the wetness that spreads between your thighs at the lack of smallclothes to gather it. His seed seeps from your swollen cunt down your flushed skin and makes you overly aware of the claim he has asserted over you.  
You’re too stunned to speak, your mouth opening and closing without any words leaving your lips. Knowing he was a rogue, you would have never thought of your uncle doing such things, even less of yourself. 
“I-I–” 
“We will keep this between us,” Daemon interrupts, figuring what’s plaguing your mind. 
The act of sin between you two has been so improper, and you’re certain your father would force you to become a Silent Sister if the word of your act would spread around court. So, it’s slightly calming to know you can rely on your uncle to protect your reputation and care for your safety. 
You nod and swallow thickly. “I-I hope so?” 
The silence between you in the carriage on your way back to the Red Keep is thick with tension, and though Daemon helps you climb down the steps before he leaves to attend his princely duties, something does not sit right with you. 
And only when you hear a knock on your chamber’s door around the Hour of the Owl do you figure that the feeling was right. Maester Mellos stands opposite of you, a goblet whose content is unknown in his hand. He hands it over, and you feel your blood run cold at his words. 
“A tea, princess. From the king. It will rid you of any unwanted consequences.”
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gureumz · 10 months
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grateful sinners
rating: explicit
member: jake
premise: growing up in a religious community (a cult?), you and your friend jake stumble upon "forbidden" media one day. of course, you know about sex but what the elders taught you was never this dirty. overcome with curiosity, you promise each other to never speak of what you're about to do to anyone.
notes: religious themes, implied cult behavior, slight (?) blasphemy, virgin!jake x virgin!reader, fem!reader, friends to lovers (?), first time, fingering, unprotected sex, creampie, desperate touch-starved, jesus loving virgins tryna fuck
a/n: third of my 1k follower special! can you tell i have deep religious trauma? lmaoooo but this was rlly fun to write, if not a little tedious but i enjoyed it nonetheless! hope you do, too <3
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the day was as beautiful as any other.
the early morning sun peeking behind the nearby hill, the smell of wet grass, the gentle breeze blowing through your hair.
you breathe in more of the valley air, letting your eyes close for a moment. everything is so still, hours and hours before the first worship of the day when the whole commune will surely come fully alive. at this moment, you're sure you're closer to God than ever.
a whispered prayer breaks the silence.
"i do not deserve such beauty before me, God," you mumble, eyes still closed. "but you are most merciful and i, a grateful sinner."
a silence, still. nothing or no one responds to your profession of gratitude, but that is to be expected. God works silently, as the elders say.
"i'm deciding if the beauty is on the horizon in front of us or in your face, ________," a voice breaks through, shattering the tranquil veil that envelops you.
you turn and you can't help the jolt in your chest. you grin widely and jake smiles back, hands in his pockets and his pants already soaked with morning dew from the grass.
"don't say that," you warn. "my mom might hear."
jake makes a show of looking around, gazing past you at the squat houses sitting peacefully without movement.
"i don't see her," jake says with a shrug. you laugh.
"you know how she hates it when people make light of God's word. your jokes are definitely her least favorite," you remind him, stepping closer.
jake eyes you. being noticeably taller and broader, it gives him the perfect view of your face as the dawn sun hits your delicate features.
his hair is messy, partly sticking to his forehead with the other half of his raven locks hanging over his eyes. you know his father would berate him for that. children of the pastor are expected to appear presentable in front of the whole commune as a way to honor God and his divine image.
but the commune is nowhere to be seen. it's just you looking.
and jake is used to you looking.
growing up together, with his mom and yours being close friends, your mother's unwavering devotion to the commune, and her undying support to jake's father's cause as pastor, it's no surprise that the two of you have been inseparable.
despite the clear division between the men and women of the commune, you and jake always found your way to each other. sneaking in glances, waving from afar before you start mass, and even despite your own mother's prudish ways, you know she felt at ease when jake was around you.
nothing has been said, but you're sure that when both of you reach the age of matrimony, you'd be wed to each other. you have to be.
"what are you doing out here so early?" you continue with a question, resisting the urge to toy with the wisps of hair on jake's temples.
you're forbidden to touch or be touched by any man that isn't your family. the only exception to this is his father, the pastor, free to lay his healing hands upon anyone he deems in need of it.
jake parts his lips to answer but pauses, as if choosing the appropriate thing to say.
"some of my friends and i wanted to hang out by the river," jake supplies, gesturing toward the general direction of the river just beyond the hill.
"doing what?" you ask. the men are usually tasked with heavy farm work in the morning. in your mind, a leisurely stroll by the river before all that labor seemed hardly reasonable.
jake hesitates again, now toying with his bottom lip, the plump, rosy skin growing even redder with every pinch jake delivers to it.
"you don't have to tell me if you don't want to," you say, flashing jake a reassuring smile.
"i'm not lying," jake replies almost instantly, a nervous spark in his eyes. "we really were by the river. we were...looking at something."
you cock your head to the side. jake comes even closer and the hairs on your arm stand on end, the faint scent of jake's sweat and soap reaching your nose. if you reach out now, you could easily wrap both arms around him, pull him close, and never let go.
"jay's dad brings our harvest to the nearby city market, right? well, jay went with him yesterday and he nicked this...book or something from the gas station," jake rambles, fidgeting with his fingers.
your eyes widen.
"it was glossy and the pages smelled nice. we don't have those kinds of books here, don't we?" jake continues, but your ears have started ringing in alarm.
"jay stole? jake, you know he needs to confess and repent," you whisper, taken aback.
jake gives you a look and you nearly tremble at the intensity in his irises. without warning, jake lets his fingertips graze your arm, instantly pulling away right after. you flinch, cradling your arm against your chest as if you've been burned.
"it's wrong, i know, but...haven't you thought of breaking the rules, even once? some of the people here talk about all the exciting things they've seen or done before, all because they broke one small rule. do you ever stop to think that it could be...fun?" jake questions, voice low. his eyes are wide and shaking, darting to and fro as if committing your whole face to memory.
"i—," you begin, unsure of what to say. you have thought of asking, even begging your mom to let you out into the city for one day. to see all the outsiders and their strange clothes and loud music.
but you could never go through with it. your mom would tell the pastor of your sinful curiosity the minute the words would leave your mouth.
"stealing is not breaking one small rule," you protest.
jake huffs out a breath. "aren't you tired of all of this? all of this forbidden stuff?"
you shake your head, trying to wrap your head around the words coming out of jake's mouth.
"your father's the pastor, jake," you say, voice trembling. "how could you..."
"the book had these pictures," jake cuts in, voice picking up as if it excited him to recount what he saw.
"the women in the book...they were naked."
you take a step back, clamping a hand down on your mouth.
"jake, what's gotten into you?" you question, heart beating wildly.
"i just want to know about the outside world, ________," jake reasons, running a hand through his hair.
"it's not as bad as the elders make it out to be," jake continues. "i haven't burst into flames, have i?"
you merely stare, uneasy at how blatant jake is about his sinful acts.
"do you want to see? i could borrow it from jay," jake offers, voice dropping to an even quieter whisper.
you stand there, a million different thoughts running through you. in all honesty, you wanted to take a look, never having seen any naked body other than your own. but even now, knowing that she was nowhere near, you could feel your mother's burning gaze on you. disappointed, intimidating, warning you to be a good child of God or face the wrath of hell.
you know this is wrong, or so you've been told. jake is treading a dangerous path and he seems adamant on roping you along. and yet...
"yes," you answer before you could stop yourself.
"b-but wait! how are you going to show me? we have to be careful," you hurriedly add, glancing around in case anyone was near enough to hear the atrocities you and jake are talking about.
"there's a secret back room in one of the barns. i go there to rest during breaks or after work and no one else ever goes there," jake hurriedly says, crowding back into your personal space. you notice the slight shake in his hands and the way his ears redden.
"o-okay," you say with a nod. "when?"
"later tonight," jake offers.
"during supper, we can sneak out while everyone else eats," jake continues. you feel his fingers on your arm again and this time, jake lets his whole hand flatten against the sleeve of your dress, his warmth seeping down to your skin.
you gasp, but stay frozen. jake's other hand lays on your waist and you shake uncontrollably, both terrified and excited at the prospect of jake touching you.
jake pulls you close, resting his forehead against yours. he's breathing just as hard as you.
"you know, i thought about...if you would look the same as the women in the book," jake murmurs, eyes closed.
you shiver. you should be appalled, disgusted by how jake is acting now, but all you feel is a warm, bubbling feeling in your abdomen and an insatiable itch to clutch at jake's clothes.
"jake, we can't—," you begin, but the deep toll of the church bell interrupts you, signaling the start of the day.
you and jake spring apart, knowing that the whole commune would be outside in a matter of minutes, heading off to their designated duties for the day.
before you could get another word in, jake rushes forward, kissing you. you gasp, but as if on instinct, your hands grasp at his face. a second later, you thread your fingers through his hair, the strands offering little resistance as you gently tug, just as you've always dreamed of doing. but as quickly as it started, jake pulls away, pushing you back at the same time.
"tonight," jake breathes out, walking backward. "at dinner. the last barn to the left."
you nod once, pausing for a moment as you watch jake tread further away from you. you wave before sprinting toward your house.
your mother would be in the kitchen. you would be assigned with peeling the oranges. or cooking the eggs. or buttering the toast.
to you, at this moment, it didn't really matter.
all your eyes could see, all your heart could feel is jake.
---
dinner was a tense affair.
your mom questioned your uncharacteristic early start this morning, and all you could do was supply a pathetic lie about wanting to see the rose garden started by some of the older women in the commune.
she made a point to warn you to be on time for dinner. you felt an uneasiness settle in your stomach at this, thinking of all the ways your and jake's plan could go wrong.
but rushing out of the mess hall now, legs pumping as you dash through the field toward the barns, all of your worries melt away.
you remember the kiss, jake's fingers digging into your side, his smooth hair in between your fingers.
having separate dining halls for the men and women, you weren't sure when jake would be there, but you decided you had to leave as soon as you can. you feigned a stomachache to your mother, excusing yourself to the bathroom.
you knew this was yet another lame excuse, but you went the rest of the day without seeing jake. you were subjected to teach the younger ones about scripture today at the school, but all you wanted was to feel jake again. to see him. to touch him.
you slow down as you approach the barns, jogging over to the last one to the left. your breathing is heavy, beads of sweat collecting on your forehead. another shiver of excitement goes through you as you push the barn door open.
the barn is one of the unused ones, a single light turned on at the very back. you walk toward the dim bulb, the glass-encased fluorescent hanging precariously by a thin wire.
you realize quite belatedly that jake never gave any specifics on how to find the secret room. but just then, you hear a faint shuffle to your left. despite the darkness, you can make out the faint outline of a head peeking out from behind a stack of hay.
"jake," you whisper, crossing the space between you in long strides.
jake emerges from the shadows, an easy smile on his face.
"it's back here," jake ushers you behind the tower of hay, his hand easily finding yours. "hurry, before anyone sees us."
you tighten your grip on jake's hand, the same feeling of exhilaration building up within you. you watch as jake approaches the section of the wall that's hidden behind the hay, pulling open a flimsy door that's half your height, cleverly disguised as part of the wall. inside, you can barely make out the soft flickering of candlelight.
jake nudges you forward. "it's a tight squeeze but it's comfortable enough inside."
you crouch, laying your hands on the dirt floor to steady yourself. you scurry forward through the door and emerge on the other side.
the space inside the room is enough for two, tall enough for you to stand in. you straighten up, dusting yourself off. jake follows inside, shutting the door behind him.
you look around and spot a metal box in one corner next to the single candle burning. a blanket is spread out on the ground.
"here," jake says, pulling you gently towards the blanket. you sit down, perching yourself right across jake.
jake takes hold of the metal box, unlatching the lid. inside, you can see a number of trinkets and other objects.
"are those...cigarettes?" you ask in disbelief. jake chuckles, brandishing the red and white box.
"found them in dad's safe," jake replies nonchalantly. "this one, too."
jake holds up a glossy rectangle, flipping it so it faces you. you let out an audible gasp.
"a phone? but we're not allowed phones," you say, letting jake place the device on your palm.
"i know. but that's my dad's. you know how the elders are the only ones allowed phones. so, i took his." jake is grinning now, the candlelight casting sharp shadows across his handsome face.
"but, how? doesn't he notice? what's in it?" you rattle off, turning the phone over in your hands.
"i bring it back every night once i'm done exploring what's inside," jake explains. he reaches over, pressing a button on its side. a moment later, it lights up, momentarily blinding you with how close you're holding it to your face.
you stare in awe as the screen comes alive. it dims after it fully turns on, displaying in big, blocky letters the time of night.
6:51
supper would be over soon.
jake takes the phone from you, setting it down on the blanket between you two.
"we can look at that later," jake reassures. "i got the book from jay at lunch today."
you swallow as jake pulls out the book from the very bottom of the box. jake moves the candle closer and your eyes instantly go wide.
the front of the book is glossy, indeed, just like jake said it would be. but the woman pictured on it seemed too lifelike, as if she wasn't merely printed on paper. her tan skin is on full display, with nothing covering her body but a bathing suit, one you've seen outsiders wear the few times you've seen pictures of them.
the bathing suit is black, the neckline going down almost to her stomach. you see the side of her breasts peek out from the garment holding it in place, and from what you can see, her whole back seems to be bare.
your eyes drift down to her crotch, covered by a thin strip of fabric. she stands, legs apart, her hands on her waist, baring her entire naked body to the world.
the longer you stare, the hotter you feel. an ache between your legs starts to make itself known.
"there's even more inside," jake whispers, sidling up to you. he presses his shoulder against yours as he reaches over to flip the book open.
your eyes scan the text on the next page, coming across a word you don't hear or see often.
"magazine," you mumble. a memory pings in your head.
"mom told me about magazines. this is a magazine," you say in mild amazement. "she says they're full of lies and are forbidden in the commune."
"magazine," jake repeats, drawing out the word slowly. he flips through more pages, stopping at one with a woman pushing her naked chest out.
your heartbeat quickens. you trace your finger over the picture, passing over the image of her plump breast, perky with a pinkish hue around the nipple.
you recall the science classes at the school. the teacher had recited the parts of the woman's body in a flat, monotonous voice. nipple. areola. vagina. cervix. she drilled it in everyone's head that these parts are not to be said aloud outside of the classroom.
"mine doesn't look like that," you comment absentmindedly. "they're not as...round."
you look up to see jake staring intently at you. his eyes drift down to your chest and you feel a new wave of heat wash over you.
jake licks his lips as he shifts closer, and as if compelled by his own actions, you do the same, facing jake fully.
you touch the buttons on the front of your dress.
you know what you're about to say and do next is beyond sinful. but you've already crossed the line the second you laid your eyes upon the magazine. a strange desire bubbles up inside you.
"do you want to see?" you ask quietly, watching jake's expression carefully.
"can i?" jake asks back, peering into your eyes. you can smell him again, faint lavender adding to the mix of his scent. you imagine jake in the bath, naked, water and bubbles washing over his skin.
you shudder involuntarily.
"yes," you breathe out.
you start to undo your dress, hands shaking. you've never done this before. you're forbidden to. you know God watches you now with disdainful eyes, but you can hardly find it in you to care.
you undo the last button, pulling the sleeves of your dress down and off your arms. the night is chilly and you shiver as the air meets your skin.
unmarried women in the commune are advised not to wear bras as they are still considered pure and innocent and in no need of such womanly garments.
so you sit, barechested in front of jake, shaking in the cold, in anticipation, in mild fear.
jake's jaw goes slack, taking in the image in front of him. he glances back at the magazine before returning his gaze to your own breasts. you resist the urge to cross your arms.
instead, you reach over, delicate fingers wrapping around jake's wrists. you guide them up, stopping right above your waiting chest.
"here," you whisper, but your voice sounds strangely loud in the silence of the night. "touch me, jake,"
you place his hands over your mounds and you gasp at the abrupt warmth. jake chews on his lip, fingers softly kneading your skin.
"do you touch yourself like this?" jake asks, eyes still wide in amazement and curiosity. he gives a light squeeze and you whimper, covering your mouth to stop yourself from crying out.
"sometimes," you say, voice slightly muffled behind your palm. "in the bath. when no one's looking."
jake exhales, pulling his hands back momentarily. he lines his pointer finger with your nipples, flicking up experimentally. you groan, throwing your head back.
"it feels good," you breathe out. "jake, it feels good all over."
jake pinches your nipples and you yelp, falling forward against jake. he catches you, cradling you to his chest. you breathe onto his neck, a warm stickiness pooling under your skirt.
"touch me, too," jake says right in your ear. he guides your hand on his crotch and your fingers curl around something stiff.
"please," jake implores, voice high and almost whining.
you watch in fascination as jake strains against his trousers. you caress up and down, feeling him harden even more under your touch. jake squeezes his eyes shut, wrapping his arms around your waist.
"sit over me," jake commands, pulling you onto his lap. there's a loud roaring in your ears as something overtakes your body completely.
"keep touching me and i'll do the same," jake instructs, returning his hands to your chest. he curls his fingers into your flesh and your mouth opens in a silent scream.
you take ahold of jake through his pants, squeezing and rubbing. jake is bucking into your hand, small breaths escaping his lips.
your head is spinning, your cheeks are flushed, and a faint guilt tugs at your chest. but you've thrown all care out the window, the only thing on your mind being jake's rough fingers tugging and pinching and grabbing at your breasts.
the bubble of heat in this little room breaks when you hear the dark notes of the church bell ringing, marking the end of supper.
you gasp, pulling away from jake as he does the same. you hurriedly button up your dress, trying to calm your breathing. jake gathers the things strewn on the floor, tossing them back into his box.
you stand, smoothing down your dress and tucking your hair back behind your ear. no words are spoken as jake blows the candle out, pushing the door open to free both of you.
you scramble out of the small space, heart still pumping wildly against your chest. you feel jake's hand rest on one side of your face, urging you to look at him.
"meet me by the river early tomorrow," jake says, now holding your face with both hands.
you blink, unsure of what to say. the rush of blood is still loud in your ears and all you want is for jake to touch you again. to keep touching you.
to touch you forever.
"please," jake adds, running his thumb over your bottom lip. you quiver at the action, stilling only when you feel him press his lips against yours.
your lips part and so does his, and as if guided by something else, your tongues move into each other's mouths, licking and sucking and breathing into and from each other.
you feel dirty, sinful even. but you start to wonder why you cared so much in the first place.
"tomorrow," jake repeats, pulling away.
the bells toll even louder. you run out of the barn without a second thought, eyes dancing with excitement, lips tender, and one single button of your dress undone.
---
you toss and turn all night.
flashes of jake invade your mind, pulling you out of sleep just as you feel yourself drifting. the way he breathed against your face. the stiffness in your hand. the pleading in his voice.
you prayed, too. prayed to God for forgiveness, for mercy. but you prayed for jake, too. to feel his lips again, to have his hands on other parts of your body.
you cry, quietly and pathetically, ashamed in the face of God. ashamed because the arousal hasn't left you. it burns almost painfully and you wish and you pray and you beg for morning to come.
you glance at the clock next to your bed and see that it's half past five a.m. you ran into jake at six yesterday, so he should be at the river by now if you're to go off of that.
you quickly dress yourself, careful to keep your movements precise and quick so as to not wake anyone in your house.
you practically float down the stairs on your toes, nimbly avoiding all the loose floorboards you know would make a sound.
you steal one glance back inside your house before taking off. you walk at first, trying to calm your nerves, but you build up to a run once you pass through the fence's gate, feeling the morning air whipping at your face.
the climb up the hill, usually a strenuous effort on your end, seems like nothing on this day, your legs taking you over it in no time.
you can see the river now, and you see the faraway figure of someone hunched over, sitting on the riverbank. excitement rips through you and you're running, running faster than you've ever had.
jake hears you before he sees you, your breathing loud and labored and your boots stomping against the wet grass. he turns to see you slowing down to a jog as you approach him.
he stands, wordlessly meeting you as you sink into his arms.
you kiss and the roar of desire is back, a single flame flickering in the blue-hued, early-morning world that surrounds you.
jake pulls you towards an area behind a large tree, and you see that the same blanket from last night is laid out on the grass. without parting your lips, jake pulls you down with him on the spread-out cloth, laying you down.
"i watched things on dad's phone last night," jake admits, kissing your jaw. you squirm underneath him, his lips sending a ticklish sensation over you.
"i watched people do it," jake murmurs against your skin, lips dragging down your neck.
"i watched them make love."
you pull jake away from where he's kissing you behind your ear, a questioning look on your face.
"you can...watch people make love? on the phone?" you ask meekly, trying to understand how some people can let such a sacred act be seen by anyone other than themselves and God.
jake nods, hands smoothing up your sides. "yes. and they do it so loudly, so roughly, so vulgarly. not like how we're taught."
you stare, wide-eyed. "what?"
"they curse a lot," jake adds. "and they call on God's name so much. we're told to never do that unless in praise."
your breath hitches when you feel jake smooth his hands over your clothed chest. you feel your nipples stiffen under his touch.
"what if it felt so good to them, they needed to call on God?" you whisper. jake ponders on this for a moment, eyes scanning over your face.
"i want to feel as good as them," jake finally says. he starts to undo your dress, the same way you did last night.
"we're going to...to make love?" you ask as jake slots himself between your legs. you feel the same stiffness from last night press up against your thigh.
"please," jake responds, pulling your dress open. your nipples are taut, begging to be touched.
jake dips his head down, latching his mouth onto one of your nubs, sending your whole body spasming. you moan, a new kind of pleasure coursing through your veins. jake presses his hips onto yours, right between your legs and you nearly cry at how good the pressure feels.
you push your core against jake's own crotch, swiveling your hips around trying to find the delicious friction you felt.
"i want to, please. i want to, so bad," jake pleads against your chest.
jake bunches your skirt around your torso, exposing your lower half and the thin, white, commune-approved underwear you have.
"please," you whine, not even sure of what you're saying.
"me, too. make love to me, jake."
jake groans, sitting upright, hands already tugging at his belt. he undoes the buckle, unzipping his pants before pulling the garments down to his thighs.
you stare half in awe and half in curiosity as jake strokes himself a few times. a clear liquid spills from the tip and you feel your mouth involuntarily water.
"can i take this off?" jake asks, hooking a finger under the hem of your underwear. you nod, cringing slightly as you feel the sticky fabric pull away from your skin as jake discards of it.
"it's so wet," jake observes, reaching down to run a finger between your folds.
"ngh!" you cry out, twitching at the sudden contact. no one has ever touched you down there. you've never touched yourself down there other than to wash.
jake presses the pads of his fingers against your core, rubbing lightly. you throw your head back, thighs already shaking.
"does this feel good?" jake asks, pressing down harder. you nod again, unable to form any coherent thoughts or sentences.
"i saw that they did this," jake says before plunging a finger into your hole.
stars burst right before your eyes when you feel jake push his thick digit into you. the feeling is foreign, a weird pressure but pleasurable nonetheless.
jake pumps it in and out of you, observing your face as he does so. you open your eyes to meet his and you see jake's pupils blown wide, his whole face a light tint of pink.
"still good?" jake asks.
"yes," you gasp, your hips pushing off the ground as you try to chase more of this feeling.
"some of them...," jake begins, pausing his movements. you start to protest but your voice gets caught in your throat when you feel jake push in another finger.
"...use two."
a slight burn at the added stretch makes you wince, your hand coming down to grab jake's wrist.
"s-slowly," you supply, opening your legs wider. jake nods in understanding, moving his fingers at a gentler pace.
you mewl, feeling the drag of his knuckles against your inner walls. you're dizzy with pleasure, overwhelmed with the thought that something could feel this good.
"it keeps coming out of you," jake says in awe. "you're getting even wetter."
"it feels so good," you gasp. "jake, please."
"what should i do?" jake asks, leaning over you. you look up, jake's face right in front of yours. not knowing what else to do, you pull him down to you in a kiss.
jake moans against your lips, speeding up his movements in and out of you. you cry into the kiss, never wanting this feeling to end.
"i-i'll put it in," jake whispers into your mouth.
jake pulls his fingers out of you and you fight the instinct to whine. jake sits back on his heels, watching as you clench around nothing.
you see his gaze darken as he takes in the sight of your dripping core, his hand coming down to pump at his shaft.
"it might hurt," jake warns. "that's what they told us."
you smile weakly. "us, too."
jake grins back at you, scooting forward to line himself up with you. jake presses the tip against your hole, watching for your reaction. he slides a little more in, and you let out a squeak.
"it's much bigger than your fingers," you say, with slight panic in your voice.
"i'm here," jake says, leaning down to kiss your forehead. "you'll be okay."
you feel jake push in some more and your whole body jerks in surprise. tears prickle your eyes but you focus on evening out your breathing. underneath the evident sting, a steady throb of pleasure beats down in your core.
"it feels so warm," jake gasps out. "God help me."
jake sinks all the way in, unable to contain himself, and you bite down hard on your lip, feeling jake deep in you. you're afraid to move in case it starts to hurt more.
"f-fuck," jake curses, hips pulling back before sinking all the way in again. you cover your mouth with both hands, unsure of all the feelings you're having at the moment.
"i'm sorry," jake whispers, kissing your cheek, then your nose, then both of your eyes. "i-it feels too good."
"it's okay," you reply, trying to contain the tremor in your voice. "keep going. it feels better now."
and it does. the more jake moves, the more you could relax. jake hits a spot inside you that completely overrides the nearly unbearable stretch and it takes everything in you not to double over in surprise.
"again," you say. "just like that."
jake stops for a moment before repeating the angle in which he thrusted in you.
there it is again. a jolt of electricity goes through your abdomen and you shudder in delight.
"yes!" you cry out. "m-more."
jake picks up his speed, careful to keep it the same way you like it. it's as if the gates of heaven themselves have opened, showing you a world of pleasure you've never seen or experienced before.
the stretch has dulled now, and the fullness you feel adds to the coil in your stomach, tighter and tighter with each thrust.
you wrap your legs around jake's waist, wanting him, needing him closer.
jake lays himself over you, his chest pressed to yours, his hips moving nonstop. you've started to meet his movements, chasing something you're not quite sure exactly what.
"it does feel good," you manage to say between moans. "so good."
jake pulls back slightly, just enough to look at you.
"have you ever finished before?" jake questions. your eyebrows pinch together and you shake your head. jake slows down, grinding into you shallowly.
"finished?" you repeat.
"yeah, when you pleasure yourself, you finish," jake recounts. you shake your head again.
"we're not allowed to, remember? i've never touched myself that way," you admit bashfully.
"it's okay," jake reassures, kissing you softly. "you'll feel it here."
jake lays a hand on your lower abdomen, pressing down. you inhale, fingernails digging into jake's shoulder.
"move faster," you request. "but keep pressing there."
jake looks at you in bewilderment but follows nonetheless. he picks up his pace again, still keeping his hand on your stomach. you feel a pressure build up where jake is pressing and you feel your whole body shake.
"you're getting tighter," jake says through gritted teeth, trying to maintain his movements.
"s-sorry, feels too good," you apologize.
"i think i feel it," you add. "keep going, please."
this sends jake into a frenzy, hips snapping at a speed you can't keep up with. you let out a sob as you feel your entire being ignite with every push of jake's shaft in you.
"i can feel myself," jake points out. "i can feel myself through your belly, God."
the words confuse you but you look down to see jake protruding through your lower abdomen with every thrust. the sight sends your brain into overdrive and you moan your loudest as a white-hot current rips through you.
you vaguely hear jake groan as he roughly grabs your hips, keeping you in place. he pumps in and out of you a few more times before stopping. you continue to swivel your hips, squirming at the strange sensation that's taking over your body.
eventually, you relax, feeling strangely peaceful. you feel lightheaded but in the best way, as if you're floating on clouds.
jake grunts, pulling himself out of you. the sensation makes you cringe and you feel something drip out between your legs.
"is that—is that your seed?" you ask in mild disbelief, though still too out of it to care much.
"yeah," jake says, nodding, collecting the drops of himself that spilled out before poking his finger back in you.
"jake!" you protest, still much too sesitive.
jake pulls his finger out and grins at you. he settles beside you, pulling you onto his chest.
---
the church bell tolls not long after.
the early morning sun rises above the tree line, and if you were to stand on the other side of the hill, you would have watched the orange glow with amazement and bated breath.
there's a breeze that blows through your messy hair and the smell of morning dew on the grass is mixed with jake's lavender soap.
breathing in the valley air, another prayer falls quietly from your lips.
"we do not deserve your forgiveness," you say . "but you are most merciful and we, are merely grateful sinners."
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tylermileslockett · 9 months
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Hellenic Polytheism or Hellenismos is the traditional, polytheistic (multiple gods) religious belief system of Ancient Greece. Modern people who believe in pre-Christian and polytheistic belief systems often refer to themselves as pagans. Let’s look at some of the general practices of typical Hellenic worship.
         Hellenic Polytheists use altars or shrines to worship specific Gods within the Greek Pantheon. For example, an altar for Apollo may contain an image or sculpture bust of the god, as well as a side table, called a trapezōmata, which holds offerings of incense and flowers or food and drink such as wine, honey, milk, or olive oil. Another tripod incense holder was called a Thymiateria.
Before engaging in a ceremony, the practitioner will employ purification methods with lustral water (ritually cleansed). They may recite hymns or prayers in honor of the god, using the Homeric hymns for example. The practitioner may use a divination practice to seek guidance or gain insight from a god through methods like casting lots, reading signs from nature, oracle prophecies, and dream interpretations. In their ceremonies, ancient Greeks would perform rites in respect to their Ta Patria, (ancestral homeland heritage), and they would take pride in their reverence with Hos Kallista, or the highest level of beauty.
         Hellenic Polytheism follows annual calendar festivals commemorating Gods or famous mythological events such as the Panathenaia in Athens (commemorating Athena), the Anthesteria and City Dionysia; (festivals celebrating Dionysus) The Olympics (a physical competition in honor of Zeus) and the Thargelia, (dedicated to Apollo and Artemis), and the Thesmophoria, (a festival exclusive to women in honor of Demeter), among many others. 
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merakiui · 1 month
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OMG going off on having sex in the fields with god!Floyd, what if he softly non-cons you >w< he’s been so disrespectful towards the god you’ve been worshipping your whole life (himself) and you don’t really like him because he isn’t being a good cult member!!
Maybe Floyd hears your inner thoughts about not liking him and hoping he ‘finds a way towards the righteous light’ when you’re praying to god!him after human/cultist!him loudly refuses to attend worship because it’s boring, so he decides to change your mind by forcing you to make love with him in the very field the cult worships him in!! AAAAAA
OMG OMG YES. OTL teasingly telling you he's sure your god won't mind if you're just a little messy on the holy grounds. <3 it's such a nice day as well. There's a soft breeze, a bright, blue sky filled with fluffy clouds, the sun is beaming, the wildflowers are all in bloom....... the statue the cult has created and raised in honor of Floyd casts such an ominous shadow over the two of you, a reminder that his eyes are always watching.
You beg him through tearful pleas to stop, that you can't defile these grounds or yourself. You're supposed to keep yourself pure for the day of your sacrifice. Your god won't want you if you've already been tainted. >_< Floyd laughs at that. If only his little Shrimpy knew.
Aaaaaa Floyd picking one of the flowers and tucking it behind your ear while he fucks you into the grass, slow and soft and sweet. You've always known your god to have dramatically shifting moods. Some days it storms fiercely; other days it's beautiful and sunny. You're not sure if he'll be very merciful when he learns you've given yourself (unwillingly and unknowingly) to one of your fellow cultists (the god you worship).
Trying and failing to mumble all manner of apologetic prayers to your god in hopes that he'll forgive you. You're just too cute. Floyd chuckles and presses a kiss to your mouth, mumbling, "I forgive ya."
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achaoticeternal · 1 year
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— 𝘁𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗵𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗵
aemond targaryen x fem!reader
|| aemond, much to his mother’s delight, has fallen head over heels for a kind-hearted, devout follower of the Seven 
✧・゚: *✧・゚:*    *:・゚✧*:・゚✧
✧ you were a daughter to a well-established Lord and family in Westeros, evening having to great honor to receive many lessons in a monastery 
✧ you not only had a brilliant mind like the crone, a beautiful innocence like the maid, and the tenderness and warmth like the mother. but your aura also demanded the same respect as the father, the smith and the warrior
✧ your lord-father and alicent were close friends in court, so when he sent you to King’s Landing to learn from the greatest septas the faith had to offer, it was only natural that you be a guest of the royal family.
✧ when alicent had introduced aemond and you, he took clear interest 
✧ aemond noticed the pendant of the maid adorned on your neck, signaling your purity and virginity. he knew then and there you would do anything for your faith and to simply be a good girl
✧ often, he would invite you to attend his own private lessons - except for his high valyrian lessons, since those were sacred to the Targaryens - but you would join him for histories and even answer questions about his own house before he could so much as utter a word. 
✧ he took notice to how you prayed before each meal and drink you took, before each lesson, before bed, while attending tourneys... he liked seeing you kneel in prayer and at night would imagine you kneeling before him like a God. 
✧ soon, aemond made a habit of praying with you when your paths crossed. at meals, he’d clasp your hands together in prayer under the table. at festivals and tourneys, he’d come to you alone and take your hands in his and speak praise to the mother and the father with you.
✧ he used your prayer time as a way of become closer with you, to insert himself into your life — because while alicent raised her children in the faith, aegon had strayed to his promiscuity and his own father never thought much of it all. it gave him a release from the world to just pray with you.
✧ one day, after your lessons at the sept, he met you outside the doors, only to drag you right back through the great doors.
“my-my prince... what are you doing? we’ll be late to your histories lesson!” you spoke in a hushed tone, acknowledging the quiet in a hall of worship. 
“i must confess before the seven... and you,” he explained which caused you to more willingly follow him while his grip still strong on your fore arm.
once at the altar, both of you knelt before the array of candles. both of you lit your own candles to call upon the seven. silence fell between both of you as you made your own prayers to the respected gods.
that was until aemond began to speak aloud, “Father Above, I beg your courage. Mother Above, I beg your kindness. Maiden sweet, I beg your virtue. All of thee to bestow upon me a love, a true and honorable love. The love of the girl who pray with me and i with her.”
your prayer was cut short as his words caught her attention, “aemond...”
“blessed be,” he finished before looking back at you, “my lady, i wish to pray at your side for the rest of my days. would you allow me such a courtesy, and even allow me to ask your Lord-father for your gentle hand?”
he extended a palm to you, asking for your hand if you accepted his proposal. with a smile, you gladly accepted such. with a finally prayer, he escorted you from the sept back to the Red Keep, doting on you while walking arm in arm. 
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wordsvomit101 · 13 days
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That awkward moment when you realized that your big bro got laid with the person you tried to kill.
Author Notes: Credits to @eternal_auditor & @jazeswhbhaven, I got this idea for this shameless worldbuilding headcanons for Heaven and Angels thanks to both of them and the latter's "Angel Bros Headcanons: Michael Flips" post. I also just want to write the scenario in general. Warnings: Raphael is a caution flag himself, depictions of violence, thoughts of brutalizing and eating someone (being directed at MC) by Raphael, a lot of name-calling from Raphael directed at MC
✎﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏﹏
(Heaven - Time of Councils and Assemblies)
In the tranquil embrace of Heaven, evening descends like a gentle caress, casting a soft golden hue upon the timeless realm. As the radiant sun dips below the horizon of ethereal clouds, the celestial landscape is bathed in hues of pink, orange, and purple, creating a breathtaking tapestry of colors that stretches across the vast expanse of the heavenly domain. The sky is like a canvas painted lovingly by the hands of God, with the colors of a thousand sunsets, each stroke a masterpiece of divine artistry. The clouds, like celestial brushstrokes, dance across the canvas, their forms ever-changing, their edges illuminated with an ethereal glow.
Amidst the celestial splendor, angelic beings gracefully glide through the sky upon the archways of purest gold span the thoroughfares of Heaven, their graceful curves reminiscent of angelic wings in flight. Beneath these archways lie crystal atriums, their transparent walls revealing the celestial wonders of Heaven in all their resplendent glory. Their iridescent wings shimmer with divine light, flying gracefully as if they dance and pirouette in ethereal ballets, painting radiant trails of luminescence across the sky.
The lower-ranking angels engage in celestial chorales, their melodious voices intertwining in harmonies that resonate throughout the Heaven. The soaring soprano of archangels blends seamlessly with the velvety alto of cherubim, weaving a symphony that would uplift the soul and transport the listener to realms of pure bliss. The music reverberates through the celestial expanse, like a cosmic symphony conducted to worship the Almighty.
For middle-ranking angels, their beloved duty during the Pilgrimage to the Mount of Revelation to commune with their dear creator has to be despairingly pushed to merely Contemplation of Sacred Texts and attending to the Halls of Eternal Wisdom, a lesser, but an honorable duty nonetheless.
Even higher above, amidst ethereal spires and resplendent palaces that grace the heavenly expanse, angelic artisans toil diligently within the Halls of Artistry. Their deft hands sculpt magnificent statues and weave intricate tapestries, each a testament to the wonders of creation. They yearn for the day when their divine creator will bestow upon them a glimpse of their artistry, even a millisecond of recognition for their unwavering dedication to him would be more than enough.
While other angels tend to the flourishing celestial flora in the Gardens of Eternal Bliss. Radiant blooms burst forth in a splendor of colors, their petals shimmering with an otherworldly luminescence. The angels nurture these heavenly gardens with love and care, a single damage to a petal of these beautiful flowers is enough to have their heads roll to the disgusting pit of Hell, however making a mistake in God's favorite garden is an even bigger sin.
It is a mundane day for all of them.
Bang!
"Sir-!"
Creak!
"AAAAAA-!"
Crunch!
"I have yet to finish my prayer-!"
Snap!
However, it wouldn't be a normal day if there wasn't a Raphael brutally tearing and eating fleshes of every angel on his path to the Chamber of Divine Counsel to meet with other Seraphs. His blood-caked shoes thundering over polished marble as he swaggers through the vaulted corridors of Heaven, his crimson-smeared wings unfurling like banners of carnage. Red marred his short blonde hair and white attire. With each wrathful step, he leaves a trail of dismembered angel carcasses, their alabaster feathers floating like ethereal snowflakes in his wake. His crimson eye fully emits an aura of violence and fury.
Thump!
Bursting into the Chamber of Divine Counsel with enough force to make the office tremble, the room was bathed in an ethereal glow, and the other Seraphs present, Gabriel and Michael, sat in their resplendent chairs, their expressions inscrutable. Raphael's form, however, drenched in the gore of his victims, stood in stark contrast to the pristine surroundings. He only has one thought of personally feasting upon that purple hair wench's flesh when she is still alive and making her watch herself being devoured alive and cut off her tongue so she couldn't even voice out her pain.
"Why... Why is it always her...! That bitch!"
The pure white chairs, crafted from the finest celestial ivory, bore the brunt of his rage, splintering and crumbling under his kicks. Yet Gabriel and Michael, their faces devoid of emotion, paid him little attention.
"If you insist on throwing a tantrum, I implore you to do so in a realm more suited to such sorrowful displays. Hell would accommodate your temperaments more appropriately."
Michael stood tall over the intricately designed long table with a mindmap and countless brainstorming notes. Standing in a place Brother Lucifer used to stand in each council meeting. His glare locked on the furious blonde seraph before him. A frown, as if carved in stone, creased his handsome face, adding an air of solemnity to his prideful demeanor. Around his neck, a regal purple choker, embellished with ornate gold rings and shimmering gemstones, encircled his throat. At its center, a prominent gold ring held a solemn cross pendant, its gentle clinking accompanying his every movement.
In a swift motion, Michael tilted his head to the left, displaying effortless grace as he dodged the flying chair hurtling towards him at high speed. The chair collided with the wall, its impact leaving a deep dent in the panel, a testament to the force behind the throw.
"Shut that shitty mouth of yours! Maybe try to go down there yourself to ask why our dear brother is entertaining trash!" As Raphael spoke, his voice trembled with anger and frustration, his words dripping with venomous accusation. A few veins already popped on his crazed, striking appearance. Filled with unrepressed anger that led him to kill his spies who reported to him and fly from the dungeon up here.
Yet Michael continued to look at his notes, his face blissfully indifferent. His right hand continued to write on many of his papers on the white table.
"He has simply strayed from the right path."
Brother Lucifer’s footstep-less feet headed for the vile tiny red devil.
'Stop it.'
However, he couldn't say the same about his head. Memories he had been trying to wipe from his mind for years served only to haunt him. Taunting him of the gut-wrenching event more than a hundred years ago.
In the silence, pure white hands pushed through the grass and preciously held up the rotten red thing.
'Don't dirty your hands.'
His brother stroked that thing's body so softly with his hands so similar to how he once did with Michael's face. Those strong, beautiful hands that once held his face so tenderly to wipe his tears away. As he placed a gentle kiss on his forehead.
'Brother...'
"I remain confident in my ability to guide him back to the right path." 
His brother's hand was holding Michael’s ray of light. The light in Brother Lucifer’s hand had stopped in front of the disgusting beast's chest, unable to advance further. He was again protecting worthless things that didn't deserve his grace.
'Why did you save it?!'
When his brother finally stood before Michael on his third step, black energy, not white, began to flow from his body.
'No-NononononoNONO-'
From his beloved brother’s head, the gorgeous head of the Morning Star, bright red horns that were the same color as the vile thing that tempted him began to grow.
'Brother- Brother Lucifer please!'
"You shall witness it in due time."
"I love you, my brother. Which is why I will give you one last chance. Return."
Crack!
The force of Michael's left hand left a massive crack in the opulent crystal marble table that trailed down to the other end of it. Effectively bringing clarity back to Raphael as the blonde gazes at Michael's hard knuckle gripping the table painfully, ignoring the blood pooling down to the marble floor and further dirtying the former pristine chamber.
Michael's abrupt actions were met with an air of knowing silence from the two. It wouldn't be far-fetched if they possessed a secret understanding of his motivations that would elude outsiders.
"Hmph," a scoff rang out and pierced the silence of the room, originating from the slender man with platinum blonde hair seated to Michael's right. His face, though classically handsome with a pale complexion, remained stoic and emotionless, belying the arrogance that dripped from the single syllable he uttered.
"Then you better live up to those words."
Gabriel's lean was a graceful movement, his body sinking into the chair as if it were a throne. His arms crossed over his chest, the crisp white of his shirt contrasting sharply with the gleam of the gold chain that adorned his white jabot ruffle shirt. The fabric of his sleeves rustled softly against the delicate filigree, creating a symphony of subtle sounds that echoed through the silent room. His eyes, deep and enigmatic, surveyed the scene before him, his expression a mixture of amusement and quiet contemplation.
"Furthermore, even in his current state, Brother Lucifer still demonstrates a reverence for God. It is conceivable that his actions are merely a symptom of his yearning for God's divine presence."
In this timeless realm, where Gabriel proudly proclaims to reign supreme as the epitome of seraphic obedience, there exists but one for whom he would willingly surrender his esteemed position: Brother Lucifer. The firstborn of God's creations, Brother Lucifer's devotion to his Maker surpassed all others, earning him the title of Morning Star. His brilliance illuminated the heavens, casting an unrivaled radiance that even Gabriel's wings could not obscure.
It was Brother Lucifer who instilled within the celestial choirs the rituals and observances that expressed their gratitude to the Almighty. Yet amidst his unwavering piety, Lucifer adhered to a solitary discipline known only to himself. Only a select few had glimpsed this secret regimen, elusive even to those who had followed his every step for countless eons.
Solitary would not be said without Brother Lucifer's name being attached to the word. He found solace in his own construction of hallowed sanctuaries. These Majestic Temples of Worship at odd places in Heaven served as his solitary refuge, where he could commune with the divine without the distractions of others. His devotion ignited a spark in other angels, who, inspired by his example, crafted Halls of Artistry. They sculpted countless colossal statues of the Almighty, their grandeur exceeding the limits of mortal imagination.
No one dared step one foot into his havens, they were for Brother Lucifer alone, and death would be upon those who broke that unspoken rule.
Yet there were times he allowed Gabriel to join him during Celestial Meditation in the secluded Garden of Eternal Reflection, a sacred sanctuary hidden deep within the heart of Heaven. Here, amidst the fragrant blossoms and tranquil pools, Brother Lucifer let Gabriel join his silent meditation and prayers. It was one of the highlights of Gabriel's day when his brother was still around.
"Not if he is messing with the descendant of Solomon."
Raphael's voice now had the former rage in it that reminded him of what he came here for, to be in these two insufferable presences. He could barely believe it when one of his spies uttered those words out of their useless mouth. That Lucifer? The Morning Star? His brother who despises Solomon as much as any other angel and the one that would bite another head off if they recklessly touched him even in the rendezvous night at the sacred Eternal Flame at the heart of Heaven where they allowed themselves to let loose for a bit?
It sounds fucking unbelievable, but when they show him a picture of that purple-haired vixen bumping parts with his brother, it sends him off the reels. He kills most of the spies and storms out of his favorite dungeon to here.
"Pardon?" Michael's mismatched eyes bulged, his neck creaking and twitching as he stared up at Raphael in a frenzy of incomprehension, his falsely composed display gone. The mere hint of the truth was liable to send the black-haired Seraph into a rampage and murder them all.
"Are you suggesting..." Gabriel's face, previously etched in stoicism, crumbled into a mask of horror. He couldn't believe the words that had escaped Raphael's lips, but he couldn't shake the realization that was slowly creeping upon him. He desperately wished that the words that came out of Raphael's mouth were nothing more than a cruel jest, but the look in his eyes said otherwise.
"I said, he's with the descendant of Solomon, that purple-haired harlot...that traitor....that cheat- That tempting trash!"
It pissed Raphael off even more as he raised his voice volume, veins now appearing on his throat, especially at the reminder of his text with that two-timer. The sheer self-satisfied energy radiating off his phone screen almost makes him fly down to Hell to choke that bitch until her brain pops out of her head himself.
"This is preposterous...impossible..." Michael's jaw hung slack, his eyes wide with disbelief as Raphael's accusations cut through the air like a madman who had just been cheated on. His normally steady stance faltered, replaced by a palpable sense of hysteria that made his body tremble. He stumbled backward, his back colliding with the cold, unforgiving wall as if seeking solace from the onslaught of emotions that threatened to consume him. The wall provided no comfort, its smooth surface a stark contrast to the turmoil raging through his body.
"I'm not joking. I heard her talking about Lucifer, his scar, his... 'thing'," The mere mention of his beloved brother's private part sends shivers down his spine as his voice quivered. The thought of that conniving bitch taking full advantage of the trust Brother Lucifer had placed in her made his blood boil with simmering rage. And that she dared to go against her promise to him as if those moments they shared in the poisonous sky of Hell meant nothing.
"She knows his exact measurements!- You know what, look at this shit yourself!" With a resounding slam that echoed through the room like a thunderclap, he unveiled the damning evidence: a collection of photographs frozen in time, capturing moments of intimate interaction between Lucifer and the individual in question.
The images fell upon the table with a heavy thud, causing the fragile surface to tremble under the weight of their revelation. Despite the force of impact that threatened to shatter the fragile table beneath them, the pictures remained intact, their unspoken truth radiating from their glossy surfaces like a painful revelation begging to be acknowledged.
Michael's face contorted with a ghastly twitch as if he were attempting to conjure laughter, but the sound that escaped his lips was more akin to a hollow echo in the thick, suffocating atmosphere. "Shut up," his mind struggled to piece together the unthinkable truth that lay sprawled before him like a macabre revelation. Denial, a feeble shield against the onslaught of evidence, crumbled before the weight of reality, leaving him quaking.
"I swear before Thrones of Heavenly Majesty I will make her rue the day she even touched him. She corrupted him and brought him over to the side of temptation. God would never-" As Gabriel's solemn vow echoed through the room, the air crackled with the intensity of his conviction, thick with the gravity of impending retribution for the sinner.
His words struck a nerve, exacerbating Michael's fraying composure. The gravity of the situation bore down upon him like a suffocating weight, his anger bubbling to the surface in fervor.
"FUCKING SHUT UP! IT'S NOT REAL! IT'S NOT REAL!" Michael's voice cracked with anguish and insanity, his outburst sending shockwaves through the chamber. In his distress, the chamber was engulfed in an inferno, casting eerie shadows that danced upon the walls. In the distance, the echo of Michael's despair mingled with the desperate prayers and curses of those trapped within the blazing office. The once-orderly chamber had become a scene of utter chaos and destruction.
"O, Almighty Creator," Gabriel's voice trembled with urgency, his words a fervent entreaty to the absent God above. "Grant us clarity in this hour of darkness, illuminate our path with Your divine light."
Meanwhile, Gabriel's attempts at prayer offered little solace as he grappled with the implications of Raphael's revelations.
His murmurs grew more frantic with each passing moment, a desperate attempt to find solace in the face of unsettling truths. "Guide us through this tempest, O Lord, for we are adrift in a sea of uncertainty. Let Your wisdom be our compass, and Your mercy our salvation."
But despite his fervent appeals, only shrieks and flames answer back, echoing throughout Heaven from the burning chamber they're in.
"She said she'd only do that with me..." Raphael’s voice cracked with bitterness, each word laced with venomous resentment. His fingers curled into fists, nails digging into his palms as he fought to contain the seething anger threatening to consume him whole. "...she lied...she lied..."
The weight of betrayal hung heavy in his heart, suffocating him with its oppressive presence. Raphael's chest heaved with each labored breath, his heart aching with the sting of betrayal. "Fucking cheater..." His words dripped with venom, the bitterness of betrayal poisoning his soul.
With a primal snarl, Raphael's control shattered like glass, shards of rage cutting deep into his consciousness. He lashed out blindly, his teeth sinking into the flesh of a passing stupidly brave angel that came to check on the three Seraphs, the taste of blood a bitter reminder of his own foolishness.
"I hate her..." The words escaped his lips in a guttural growl, each syllable dripping with raw fury. His grip tightened around the angel's trembling form, nails digging into flesh as he sought to vent his pent-up rage on an unwitting victim.
"I'm not sloppy seconds..." Raphael's voice cracked with rage, his crimson eyes ablaze like a firestorm. He tore into the angel's flesh with savage ferocity, his actions a grotesque display of his inner turmoil. "...I'm no side bitch!"
Boom!
— — — — — — — — — — — — — —
"Hm?", in the dim recesses of his grandiose office, Lucifer, who was engrossed in his craftsmanship of carving the statue of the divine, lifted his gaze from his artistic endeavor by the sudden but subtle yet discernible disturbance in the island above the sky of Hell.
His pure white eyes shimmered with an otherworldly glow. Despite the plaster and pigments that adorned his once-pristine garments save for his bloody back that had his broken wings. His form radiated a timeless beauty, marred only by the grim expression on his handsome visage.
The sensation he felt was like a creeping up from above, like a ripple in the placid waters of a celestial lake.
'What are those three getting angry at right now?'
Raon, who was perched upon the plush velvet couch that adorned his office, her tall form immersed in the pages of an ancient tome, looked up swiftly at Lucifer's voice, a rare occurrence after hours of silence.
Once she raised her gaze from the text, her curious eyes meeting Lucifer's form with silent inquiry. Normally, she would wait until Lucifer is willing to tell her what is on his mind, but currently, she is bored and needs a break after reading several magic grimoires Lucifer gave her and practicing with them for almost a whole day.
'Let's just hope he will at least give me a short answer.'
"Um, Lucifer, is there something wrong?" Raon's voice, soft and tentative, carried a note of concern as she awaited his response, her gaze fixed unwaveringly upon him.
Lucifer's answer was measured, his words carrying the weight of foreboding. "I feel there's a disturbance. There would be a storm soon," he left out the part that it was most likely his brothers being angry about something again.
"Is it related to the angels?" Yet the young woman still managed to catch onto the hidden message, her question not directed at ordinary angels but at his brothers as she nervously tightened her grip on her grimoire.
Lucifer nodded solemnly. "Very likely," he confirmed. His gaze remained fixed on the distant horizon but his voice relaxed to ease the lady's tension as he contemplated the unfolding events in the celestial realm.
"Oh, then I will get back to my training-", with a subtle shift of his form, he turned his attention back to Raon, his gaze meeting hers with a serene intensity as he stood up to clean himself with a swipe of his finger. He tidied himself with a cleaning spell and put his tools and statues back into their orderly places without doing so himself physically—a casual display of his magic that Raon wishes to get to one day.
"It's fine," Lucifer assured her, his tone gentle yet authoritative. "Let's take a rest. Care to join me for a walk to the observatory room?" Quietly, he held out his right arm for her to hold on to if she wanted to accompany him.
Raon's heart fluttered at the invitation, her breath catching in her throat as she struggled to contain her excitement. "Really? I-I mean, of course! Please lead the way." Her words spilled forth in a rush of eagerness, her eyes shining with anticipation as she rose from her seat and she excitedly but carefully walked over to Lucifer's spot.
As Raon raised her gaze, a silent query lingering in her eyes, she studied the handsome devil's countenance for the slightest hint of unease. Finding none, she shyly reached out and clasped his arm, a silent agreement passing between them. Together, they embarked on a leisurely stroll, the pace unhurried yet purposeful.
Lucifer, typically swift in his movements, slowed his steps to accommodate Raon, pausing whenever she expressed a desire to linger and marvel at the exquisite white blossoms that adorned Paradise Lost, a sight reserved only for the privileged few. The air was filled with a sense of tranquility and reverence as they meandered through the garden, each step bringing them closer to their destination, yet allowing them to savor the beauty that surrounded them. Unbothered by the chaos that is currently exploding in Heaven.
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Embracing African Heritage: The Significance of Shrines and Religion
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Africa, often referred to as the cradle of humanity, boasts a rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and spiritual beliefs that have endured for millennia. Central to this heritage are the sacred shrines and profound religious practices that serve as pillars of community, identity, and connection to the divine.
Shrines, both natural and constructed, hold a special place in African spirituality. These sites are often nestled in the heart of communities or hidden within the vast landscapes of the continent. From the iconic pyramids of Egypt to the humble groves of the Yoruba in Nigeria, each shrine reflects a unique blend of history, mythology, and reverence for the ancestors.
One of the fundamental aspects of African religion is the veneration of ancestors. Ancestral shrines serve as focal points for prayers, offerings, and rituals aimed at honoring those who came before. These ancestors are believed to possess wisdom, guidance, and protection, and their spirits are invoked for blessings and assistance in times of need. In many African societies, the bond between the living and the dead is deeply cherished, with rituals and ceremonies reinforcing the interconnectedness of past, present, and future generations.
Moreover, African shrines are often associated with specific deities or spirits, each embodying different aspects of the natural world or human experience. Whether it's Oshun, the Yoruba goddess of love and fertility, or Anubis, the ancient Egyptian god of the afterlife, these divine entities are revered through elaborate ceremonies, dances, and sacrifices. Through these rituals, devotees seek communion with the divine and seek guidance in matters of health, prosperity, and spiritual growth.
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However, the significance of African shrines extends beyond the realm of spirituality. They are also repositories of cultural knowledge, oral traditions, and historical narratives passed down through generations. Within the sacred precincts of these sites, elders impart wisdom, storytellers weave tales of heroism and creation, and artists imbue their craft with symbols and motifs that speak to the essence of African identity.
Unfortunately, the colonial era and the spread of Christianity and Islam have often marginalized indigenous African religions, dismissing them as primitive or pagan. Despite this, many communities continue to uphold their traditional beliefs, adapting them to the challenges of modernity while preserving their core values and rituals. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in African spirituality, fueled by a desire to reclaim cultural heritage and reconnect with ancestral roots.
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In conclusion, African shrines and religion embody the resilience, diversity, and spirituality of the continent's people. They are more than just places of worship; they are living testaments to the enduring legacy of Africa's past and the enduring power of its traditions. As we navigate an increasingly interconnected world, embracing and honoring Africa's rich heritage is not only a matter of cultural preservation but also a celebration of the human spirit's boundless capacity for faith, creativity, and reverence for the divine.
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bloodandthestars · 7 months
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𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐒.
priest!au suguru geto x fem!reader
tw/tags: mentions of the Bible, Christianity (it is solely picked for plot nothing more, nothing less), etc :: introduction to JUDAS, kinktober drabble series (mdni)
wc: 1.3k :: masterlist. :: next part.
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The Geto family was a devout and honorable one. Generations upon generations did the men of the house dedicate their lives to reach the word of the Heavenly Father. Suguru’s route was no different— crooked, but narrow on the holy path.
He’d become the father of the church months ago, to herd the congregation into a fruitful community. Pressure weighed heavy at his shoulders, but in the end, he knew it was for the best. Wasn’t it?
“And while we are tempted by the devil in more ways than one.” His smooth voice went on. “It’s the persistence, the strength, and the true power of the Lord’s light that keeps us on the divine path.”
Suguru takes a glance to his notes, a finger moving from one page to the next. “As Peter 5:10 states: And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”
It earns him a few hums in agreement and ‘Amens’ from the crowd. He takes a breath. “So know that the obstacles in your path now, the ones you pray to be vanquished, may be the key to your own glory. For your glory, is His.”
The crowd rumbles in cheers and claps. Suguru gives the room a smile. With a slow glance around the room, he takes in all their excited faces full of hope to hear the Holy word through him. It was these same old faces he had gotten used to seeing in the worn pews of the church. The same ones he’d run around with his best friend as a child when services were over. Everything remained as it was, as it was suppose to be.
So that’s why his breath unconsciously hitched when meeting your gaze.
Your eyes were new. He’s never seen them cry in the name of repentance, never seen them look at him like he was the Messiah himself. Not even now in the mists of a worshiping crowd. Your expression was poise, calm— orbs slender in observation.
You cut the staring short, looking ahead instead. It’s only then when he can hear the clapping back at full volume. Suguru blinks a few times to return, eyes going down to the timeline in his writings. “And with that, we’ll end today’s service with a prayer.”
The congregation bows their heads in unison. He catches how you were much slower in doing so. Keeping his eyes on you cautiously, he speaks a worthy word to his people. “O’ Might One, we thank you for allowing us to celebrate you on this day. Your spirit is poured out onto this place every Sunday morning and we could ask for nothing more...”
With the service finished, church goers socialize amongst one another. Greetings, catchings of last night’s game, news that the youngest born has ridden a bicycle for the first time. Suguru always had an ear to their happenings, not that he had much of a choice. As soon as his dress shoes hit the carpet floor, he’s instantly surrounded by a group of parishioners. As always, they wanted to make their priest happy and see him smile.
A older woman clasps his hand in hers, squeezing it with a pleasant expression. “An excellent sermon, as always Father Geto!”
“Thank you, Mrs. Kasaki-”
“Did I tell you about little Callie’s recital?”
He chuckles. “Yes, last week. She had practice then, correct?”
“Oh yes! It was a dress rehearsal, her big debut was this last Saturday. She was so adorable in her purple tutu! And she only picked that because she’s growing out of that pink phase, little thing. Oh! Let me grab my phone-”
A low quality video later, one handshake leaves for another. “Pastor! Did you see the new restaurant down the street that they’re building up?”
“No? I don’t think I have.”
“Oh yeah, I think it’ll be a new fusion place. Never knew that they had stuff like that!” A hearty laugh comes straight from the man’s belly and Suguru’s obliged to laugh as well.
“We’ll have to see if we can get the church together for its opening.”
“I’ll see if I can put a word in.”
“There you go, Pastor!”
And another. “Father, did you ever get the chance to look at my inquiries on raising funds for the elementary school?”
“The box tops, yes?”
“Mhm! When will you get started?”
“We can have something up by Wednesday.”
Another. “Father Geto! I just have to get your opinion on this recipe for the potluck-”
Another. “Give your parents a big hug for me won’t you! It’s been so long since I’ve seen them-”
And another. “And this is little Devon! He’ll be staying with me for the summer and he’s already enjoying the kids church service-”
Hands come and go within his grasp as he speaks with each one of them as they trail out. His father told him it was a way to build trust and community, and who was he to argue with the face of the church?
As he wishes one of the elderly women goodbye, Suguru keeps a watchful eye on her when she goes down the stairs. He turns back, starting a little when he’s met with your presence incoming. His body straightens up and you stand in front of him. “Father Geto?”
“That it is.”
Your hand extends in his direction. “Beautiful service. You have many who think the same.”
His eyes lower to your hand, glancing up to you when he takes it. The larger one warms your grasp. He lets out a soft breath. “I appreciate the flattery.”
You raise a brow at him. “Can’t be flattery, after all, your admirers would disagree too.”
Your words earn another exhale, this time with a faint laugh behind it. His slender eyes keep to yours, can’t finding himself to look away. Curiosity eats at him to ask. “If you don’t mind my asking, but are you new in town?”
“I am.” You answer politely. “My mother grew up here, wanted me to see her roots.”
“I’ll be the one to tell you that her roots were made in quite a small place.”
You chuckle softly. “Oh I’m quite aware. Still, it was one of the things she wanted us to do together before she passed.”
“I’m sorry for your loss.”
“Thank you.”
He watches you glance down at each other’s hands. Seeing that they’re still connected, the pastor pulls it away— hoping you wouldn’t notice how quick he did it. His eyes were lowered, so they had no choice but to follow upward. That meant scanning over your body and attire— a turtleneck dress and high boots with stockings. He straightens when his eyes reach your face. “And you are?”
You give him your full name, and he repeats it back to you. “It’s lovely.”
“Thank you.” You repeat.
Eventually, you head to the church doors. He follows behind as you were the last to leave. You turn back to give a final glance and him a final goodbye. “It was a pleasure to meet you, Father.”
“Likewise. I hope you to see your return to the church soon.”
“Perhaps.”
Your gazes never leave each other when he goes to shut the doors. The wooden beings echo with their closed status, knocking the air back into his lungs. His brows furrow. Why did he take notice to your clothing?
You dress nice, that’s all. The father shuts his eyes, shaking his head as he goes to tidy the pews.
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queerprayers · 7 months
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update <3
I've been procrastinating this (as if that could make it all less real), but so many people have sent prayers and well wishes that I wouldn't feel right not letting you know how grateful I am for your words and also letting you know this: My beloved grandfather died last week.
I honor the faithful service he gave to countless churches and communities, the children he helped raise, the grandchildren he sang to, the children he baptized, the couples (including my parents) he married, the people he buried, the music and faith that never left him even when so much of him did.
I will pass on the last thing he ever said to me, in July, after a busy and joyful weekend celebrating his fiftieth wedding anniversary, as he got in bed for his nap, taking seconds in between words to think: "It's not all hard. Not all the time." This is so hard. But it's also part of loving someone: promising to mourn them when the time comes. Promising to keep going. Love is hard, but it's not all hard. Not all the time.
His funeral will be Catholic, but he used to be a Lutheran, and he presided over many funerals from the worship book I still use, so here are some words I've been saying from there:
O God of grace and glory, we remember before you today our brother. We thank you for giving him to us to know and to love as a companion in our pilgrimage on earth. In your boundless compassion, console us who mourn. Give us your aid, so we may see in death the gate to eternal life, that we may continue our course on earth in confidence until, by your call, we are reunited with those who have gone before us; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Into your hands, O merciful Savior, we commend your servant. Acknowledge, we humbly beseech you, a sheep of your own fold, a lamb of your own flock, a sinner of your own redeeming. Receive him into the arms of your mercy, into the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the glorious company of the saints in light.
The generations rise and pass away before you. You are the strength of those who labor; you are the rest of the blessed dead. We rejoice in the company of your saints. We remember all who have lived in faith, all who have peacefully died, and especially those most dear to us who rest in you. Give us in time our portion with those who have trusted in you and have striven to do your holy will. To your name, with the Church on earth and the Church in heaven, we ascribe all honor and glory, now and forever. Amen.
O death, where is thy sting? O grave, thy victory? The strife is o'er, the battle done. Love will come again like wheat arising green. The Lord bless and keep him. The Lord make his face to shine upon him and be gracious to him. The Lord look upon him with favor and grant him peace.
I'm not a Catholic, and was never really taught to pray for souls, but I think I get it a bit now. He was, though, and if that's something you do, I'm sure he would have welcomed that. (And if you know any good saints to throw in the mix, go for it.) My grandmother could also use your prayers.
Thank you for reading this, and holding for a moment the love I have for him. It's heavy right now, and easier to carry with others' prayers beside me. I am praying beside you as well, especially with the many people who have sent me asks that have gone unanswered for ages now. And God holds all of us, more than we could ever imagine. I don't claim to understand death, but I am in the palm of the universe's hand, and my granddad is too, reunited with all that left him in his sickness, and united with a God who knows death intimately. Ashes to ashes, dust to dust, love to love.
<3 Johanna
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strawberrystepmom · 7 months
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f!reader is the goddess of love (aphrodite) and kakashi is a mortal. reader is obviously very old (godcore) and kakashi is in his canon age in naruto (27). im tagging @zorosdimples bc this is also partially another birthday present for her LMFAO. love u!!!!!!! wc 1.7k
divider thanks to @/saradika 🩷
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You kneel near a red rose bush, delicate petals fluttering around on one of the last warm breezes of the summer and brushing over your exposed arms. It isn’t much longer that you’ll be able to visit the realm of the mortals in your lightest robes, the ones that hang off of your shoulders in a way that makes you most comfortable. 
The unencumbered feeling of the warmest time of the year still flows through you despite the fact that the sun dips earlier and earlier every single day and verdant green slowly turns to russet and yellow, leaves swaying overhead even in the garden you’re visiting. You glance up from the bush in front of you, red petals dancing and settling across your skirt, and witness them wave to you, as if they’re saying goodbye to you themselves. 
Shaking your head, you laugh and look back down, plucking one of the petals from your skirt and rubbing it between your thumb and index finger. It’s as velvety as you pictured it would be, soft as your skin, and it makes you wonder when the purveyor of these fine roses in tribute to you will arrive to make himself known.
Kakashi Hatake, a man whose likeness lingers in your psyche. You’ve been watching him for years, his offerings growing in both size and intimacy since he was a young man and it would be a struggle to remember the last time you wished to meet a mortal as badly as you find yourself wishing to meet him. You desire to see the man who cultivated such fine roses in the flesh, petting another petal between your fingertips. It’s the least you can grace him with, despite your true intentions being wanting to see this man who has won your affection through nothing more than devotion.
Affection, you think. You are the goddess of the very emotion and this is deeper than simple affection. 
You’re infatuated with him. When you lay with your husband, captor you’re more likely to call him, you think of him. When you wander through the veil of the mortals and gods, which you are, you think of him. His scarred eye that he believes makes him unworthy of worshiping you, the way his gray hair sticks up at all angles on top of his head. 
A sigh as gentle as the breeze escapes you as you sit back and think of the first time you remember seeing him.
It started years ago at the local temple erected in your honor, Kakashi paying tribute with prayer and apples daily after his hunts had finished. He’d leave his bloodied bow and boots at the entrance, propping them against pristine gray marble to stick out like the red of the very roses he now grows in your honor, and enter the temple to kneel at your feet. 
“Goddess,” he asked, his voice carrying the deep timbre of a man.  “I’ve come to request your blessing.”
You granted it without a second thought that day and have since, enamored with the young man asking for you. The man who, over the years, would visit your shrine to read poetry and love stories. The man covered in blood whose heart has always been deceptively tender beneath a scarred and hardened outside, years of hunting beneath the blistering sun for his family, his village, his friends.
It’s time to offer him yourself as tribute to him given all that he has offered to you.
“I was beginning to worry that you’d never arrive,” you finally speak over your shoulder, turning your head enough to watch him approaching where you sit. You hear his footsteps stop, standing in the grassy clearing with his mouth agape. He tilled, planted, and pruned this garden himself - his own devotional paradise to his favorite goddess and here you sit, sundrenched skin and hair and lips. 
Did he die? Is this the afterlife he always longed for, a chance to live without burdensome responsibilities? To be the man he has always been beneath the tarnish of his life?
“Come, don’t keep me waiting.”
You pat the grass next to you, still coyly gazing from above your shoulder blade, and his footsteps pick up once again though slowly. Taking a moment before speaking, he wiggles his hands and fingers to make sure he still has feeling in them. He wonders if he shouldn’t run and hurl himself against the trunk of the trees surrounding you just to ensure he is alive and this is not a dream.
“Was I gored?” He speaks aloud and you laugh, musical and dancing on the wind. Just as he always imagined he’d heard while he spent his time in your tribute. Immediately he notices his gaffe and his face reddens, still walking toward you with his nose pointed toward the ground. He doesn’t notice when you stand, turning to face him while the petals that accumulated in the folds of your robes flutter at your feet.
Oh he has to be dead, he’s just grateful that this is the paradise he has come to live his afterlife in.
“You are alive and well, Kakashi.”
He nods, ignorant of what else to do, and you giggle. Dropping your skirts out of one of your balled fists, you produce a small parchment that you’ve been holding onto for a very long time, the edges worn and bent with the weight of your fingers tracing around the edges. You offer it in his direction and he blanches, noticing the handwriting on the paper belongs to him.
“Do you remember this?” You ask knowing that he does, given the way his eyes drift from the paper in your hand to your face and back several times. It sends a chill through you to see the color of them in person - deep like a stormcloud yet light like the marble of that temple he used to frequent years ago. He’s beautiful and who knows beauty better than you, the goddess of the very concept itself?
“I do, goddess,” he nods and reaches for the parchment, fully unrolling it and letting his eyes rove over his own words. He wrote this 8 birthdays ago, a young man full of love so thick he lived in fear it would erupt out and ruin him like that of a volcano. Hot and searing, melting all left in its path. He sighs, scanning over the poem he knows is less impressive than any you’ve probably ever had written in your honor and wonders why this is the one you’ve kept.
Have you come to punish him for his tributes and their lack in comparison to the others that love you?
“How did you come into possession of this?”
You smile at his question, approaching him with soft footsteps. He’s a hunter, after all, trained to notice the footsteps of prey and predators alike. You want to present yourself as neither as you offer no threat to him. Even if he were to decline your affections, you’d let him live. It would sear through you and you’d imagine his face in place of that of your beastly husband daily for the rest of your days, but you’d understand. A dalliance between a mortal and a Goddess often leads to trouble and this is a man who has always tried very hard to stay out of such affairs.
“I plucked it from the temple myself all those years ago,” you explain, offering your hand to him. His eyes dart nervously again and you reach down to take his hand, rubbing your soft thumb across his calloused palms. 
“Surely this is an illusion,” he whispers, heart beating so rapidly he worries you’ll be able to see it through his worn linen shirt. This man is a hunter, a warrior, a teacher of the youth in his village in the same techniques that have kept them alive for decades and he has been rendered nothing more than an uncertain mess at the sight of you. “This…this cannot be happening.”
“And why do you say that, mortal?”
He straightens his back at the reminder of your place over his own, a goddess in the flesh, holding his hand and tenderly caressing the wound he received while teaching one of the village children to care for his spear.
“Because you are you and I am myself,” he mutters. “This cannot be.”
He watches your lips curve into a smile, hair swaying as you shake your head at his mortal sensibilities to believe he knows better than the goddess he has been paying tribute to for nearly his entire life.
“If you wish it not to be then it shall not be but please consider that I’ve been waiting for you as well before you turn me away.”
Kakashi raises his brow, curious as to what you mean. He says nothing and you take his silence as permission to continue speaking, still smoothing over the creases in his palm with your thumb.
“Consorting with mortals always has a potential cost but I’m willing to pay that to even speak to you,” you purport and his jaw drops again, brows knitting together in confusion.
“To…me?”
You nod, lacing your fingers between his. You do not bristle when he doesn’t immediately grasp you back, willing to allow him his comfort.
“You, who has left me poetry that makes all others pale in comparison. Who planted this rose bush and the dozens of others dotting this garden, felling the thorns as they bloom.”
For a moment he allows himself to embrace the fantasy you’re painting for him. The Goddess of Beauty and Love, pining for him just as he’s pined for you. He has spent many lonely nights in his life dreaming of a blessing from you but never imagined this would be the one.
Your delicate fingers wrapped around his knuckles, your sun warmed cheeks upturned in a smile.
“Come, let’s talk,” you offer, keeping your grip on his hand as the two of you walk toward the rose bush. 
You’re willing to do some convincing if you need it but given the red tips of his ears, you don’t believe it’ll take much.
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venusiancharisma · 1 month
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Traditional Orphic Hymns: Mythology
Have you ever heard of an Orphic Hymn? If you haven't, here is a little background...
An Orphic Hymn is a type of devotional poetry that was used in the religious practices of ancient Greece, particularly in the mystery cults associated with the mythical poet and prophet Orpheus. These hymns were believed to have been composed by Orpheus himself, although the actual authorship is unknown and they were likely written by various poets over time.
Orphic Hymns are characterized by their invocations to specific deities, as well as their use of mystical language and symbolism. Each hymn is dedicated to a particular god, goddess, or abstract concept, and they often include epithets, attributes, and mythological references associated with the subject of the hymn.
In ancient Greek religion, Orphic Hymns were used as part of ritual practices, such as:
Invocation: The hymns were recited or sung to call upon the presence of a deity and to request their blessings, guidance, or protection.
Worship: They were used as a means of honoring and praising the gods, expressing devotion, and strengthening the connection between the worshippers and the divine.
Initiation: In mystery cults, such as the Orphic or Eleusinian Mysteries, the hymns may have been used as part of the initiation process, helping to guide initiates through the symbolic journey and impart sacred knowledge.
Contemplation: The rich symbolism and enigmatic language of the hymns could serve as a tool for spiritual contemplation, allowing practitioners to delve deeper into the mysteries of the divine and the nature of the universe.
In modern times, Orphic Hymns continue to be studied by scholars of ancient religion and literature. They are also used by some contemporary spiritual practitioners, particularly those involved in Hellenic polytheism or other forms of paganism, as a means of connecting with the Greek gods and goddesses and as a tool for personal spiritual growth and ritual practice.
How is it used?...
Here is a traditional Orphic Hymn to Hecate, translated from the ancient Greek text:
"Hecate, bearer of light, who holds the keys, Goddess of the crossroads, revered and mighty, In the sky, on earth, and in the sea, You dwell in the souls of the dead. Chthonic and Celestial, you are the beginning and the end, Alone you wield the scepter of command. You favor the brave in battle, And in the contests, you grant the prize. You nurture the young, you give abundance in good measure, And when life ends, to you we go. Hail, Goddess, and attend your supplicants with favor, With joyful heart and gracious to our prayers."
This hymn is used to invoke and honor Hecate, the Greek goddess of magic, witchcraft, ghosts, and crossroads. The hymn highlights her various roles and attributes:
It addresses Hecate as a "bearer of light," referring to her association with torches and illumination, both literal and metaphorical.
The hymn emphasizes Hecate's liminality, as she presides over crossroads and thresholds, and is connected to the realms of the living and the dead.
It acknowledges her power and influence in all spheres - the sky, earth, and sea - and her role as a psychopomp, guiding souls in the afterlife.
The hymn also recognizes Hecate as a goddess of abundance, bravery, and nurturing, reflecting her complex and multifaceted nature.
In ritual practice, this hymn would be recited as a means of calling upon Hecate's presence, seeking her blessings, and honoring her power. It might be used in magical workings, especially those related to transition, transformation, or communication with the dead. The hymn could also be recited as part of a devotional practice, as a way of expressing reverence for Hecate and strengthening the practitioner's connection to her energy and mysteries.
Other Orphic Hymn God's & Goddesses you can invoke:
Here are 38 traditional Orphic Hymns, each dedicated to a different Greek deity or concept:
To Hecate
To Prothyraia
To Night
To Heaven
To Aether
To Protogonos
To the Stars
To the Sun
To the Moon
To Nature
To Pan
To Hercules
To Dionysus
To the Curetes
To Athena
To Victory
To Asclepius
To Health
To the Seasons
To the Fates
To the Graces
To Themis
To Nemesis
To Justice
To Equity
To Law
To Mars
To Vulcan
To Esculapius
To Hygeia
To the Furies
To the Fates
To the Graces
To Prosperine
To Bacchus
To Mercury
To the Muses
To Memory
Please note that these are the titles of the Orphic Hymns, and each hymn has its own unique text in ancient Greek. The exact content and length of each hymn vary, with some being more extensive than others. These hymns were used in ancient Greek ritual worship and are attributed to the legendary poet Orpheus, though their actual authorship is unknown.
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truebluemenace · 1 month
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I'm thinking about Sonic going from just a regular guy, to becoming a rumor, then a myth, then a legend, then, eventually, a deity of sorts.
Like, okay, he's still a normal dude. That is, if normal dudes can run at the speed of sound and harness ultimate power to defeat gods and titans.
But the more people he saves, the more people learn about him. And I would have to imagine that Sonic as a figure feels very mythical to the average person, especially if they've never met him.
This guy protects the planet and has saved it from monumental threats and he has never once demanded anything in return, not even recognition for his actions. And nobody, save for a very small few, knows anything about him.
When crises happen, the average person starts hoping for Sonic to show up and save them all. As time goes on, these hopes evolve into something more like prayers.
When Sonic dies, memorials are created around the planet for the fallen hero. It's strange to think that he's actually gone, even in the aftermath of Eggman's conquests. People visit these memorials and leave flowers or other small gifts, in honor of the hedgehog who saved them all time and time again, and they almost feel more like tribute.
Sonic comes back to life and these memorials become more like holy sites. Just because Sonic's alive doesn't mean there isn't still this drive to treat these places like temples, temples where Sonic is their deity.
It makes Sonic uncomfortable when he starts to come across them, while the Restoration is still fixing the planet. People making offerings and praying in his name, thanking him for protecting the planet and asking him to continue to do so. What's even worse is when these types of people meet him directly, and he has to deal with his worshippers falling at his feet.
He liked it a whole lot better when he was dodging interviews and autographs. He never wanted anything like this.
When he discusses it with his friends, they generally agree that yeah, it is pretty weird. But it also feels like many of them look at him differently these days, too.
Especially Knuckles.
They have a conversation about it once.
"Do you know what makes something a god?" Knuckles had asked.
"Well, I've fought a few of them, so I should probably know," Sonic joked, catching the way Knuckles' frown deepened in a lack of amusement. "Well, they all tend to have a lot of power."
"Sure, but where do you think that power comes from?"
"Uh, chaos energy?"
Knuckles sighed. "It's more than that. Look at Shadow. He's got loads of chaos energy, but you wouldn't consider him a god, would you?"
"I don't know, he is supposedly immortal."
"Sonic."
"What?" Sonic put his hands up. "I don't get your point, Knux. Why are you even asking me this?"
"Gods are formed from worship."
Sonic froze. It hit him immediately what Knuckles was implying. He forces out a chuckle. "I don't think a few misguided people treating me like some otherworldly force means anything, pal."
"You know it's not just a few people, Sonic. This is a global thing that's happening."
Sonic waved a hand. "It'll die down, trust me. It's all just because I was gone for six months and magically seemed to come back. The average person doesn't know the full story."
The full story was this: Sonic didn't feel like a deity. Those six months were the worst experience of his life, and now that he was in the aftermath he still felt bad more often than not. He hid it well, but his time imprisoned and tortured had left its mark, the way he flinched at shadows and shied away from physical contact even worse than before, even as he craved it more than he ever had in his life.
He'd always felt unstoppable, a side effect of his speed, he imagined. And then he was stopped, and the illusion he had viewed himself through shattered.
He had never felt more small. He felt even further from a god than ever.
It didn't help that the world fell apart in his absence. Dealing with guilt on top of everything else wasn't helpful.
"Listen, Knux," Sonic said, letting his tone grow serious. "Don't bring this up with anyone else, okay? The last thing we need is for people to start acting more weird around me. This craziness needs to just blow over."
Knuckles looked at him intensely, studying his expression. Sonic didn't know what he saw, but he sighed. "Fine, I won't. But I still--"
"Great, thanks! I gotta go, I'll see you around!"
"Sonic, wait--!" Knuckles called out too late, the wind rushing past him as Sonic took off, speeding away before the echidna could get another word in.
He didn't get a chance to tell Sonic that his chaos energy signature had started to feel different.
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asherheed · 2 years
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a love like religion
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⚘ ‹ featuring › gojo satoru x fem!reader
⚘ ‹ warnings › smut (minors dni), a bit of blasphemy, religious elements used as metaphors during sexual intercourse, angst without there actually being angst, body worship
⚘ ‹ note › not proofread. idk why but i really wanted to write something like this. if this is not ur cup of tea then dni ty !
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Gojo would never consider himself a man of faith. After all, as the wielder of the six eyes and having considered himself the honored one, the mere idea of a god seemed more of an entity humans created just so they could hold onto something when hope is lost. He has seen the practices of different religions and has witnessed the inconsistencies of their believers firsthand, thus he refuses to acknowledge whatever preaching he's heard.
Why should he listen when he is nearest to a god walking amongst people on earth?
No, Gojo was not a man of faith. He would never choose to be; but something about the way your thighs tremble as he plunges his fingers into you, and the way your back arches, clutching his silky hair as he tastes the wetness dripping inside you has him considering the possibility.
He watches, almost in rapture, as your breasts bounce with each thrust. The sound of your wet slit being opened up by him makes him feel like he's having a revelation. With your eyes squeezed shut, nipples hard and aching, possession courses through his veins at the realization that only he could make you feel like this.
"Look at me," Gojo orders, watching your face with intent. He stills his fingers and you whine, clawing at his scalp frantically, wondering why, why, why did he stop.
You open your eyes and your heart skips at the image in front of you: Gojo on his knees, the tip of his cock dripping with precum, his mouth agape like he's never seen someone so fucking heavenly, and so, so his.
The blush that spreads across your cheeks almost makes you look away from Gojo's piercing gaze, but you stop when he curls his fingers, hitting that soft spot inside you that makes your toes curl and back arch with pleasure, your eyes widening at the sensation.
"You're beautiful," Gojo whispers, voice rough, still looking at you from below. He drops his chin and scissors your opening further, watching as a line of your wetness drips out of your pussy, staining the mattress. "And so wet for me," he groans and adds a finger. You bite your lip at the stretch, moaning at how his fingers continue to make you feel good, but god, it wasn't enough.
"'Toru, please," you sob, clutching the sheets, "I need you now." You cant your hips, wanting him to go deeper—to fill you up until all you could feel was him. Until your pussy memorizes the outline of his cock inside you. Until nothing else can compare to how he makes you feel otherworldly.
He smiles against your thigh like a man who's been granted the greatest of blessings. Pulling out his fingers, you watch as his tongue licks every crevice between his knuckles.
The intoxicated look on his face drives you to lean down and slot your mouth against his. You taste yourself on his tongue, accepting the sensation like it's communion, and heat pools between your legs as Gojo pushes you back, wrapping your legs around his hips as he pushes his cock inside you.
Your eyes roll back as your walls swallow him up, and you feel yourself clench at the stretch, thinking your prayers have finally been answered.
In offering, you part your legs further, and Gojo's head spins.
He thrusts into you to the beat of your own heart. You hear it race as he fucks you like he's atoning for all of his shortcomings, for his lack of faith, for the mistakes he's made, and for the arrogance he's festered. He maps your body with his fingers, rubbing your clit as you writhe and twist underneath him, and he watches your face with reverence.
The heat of your pussy and the smell of your skin consumes Gojo's thoughts, and slowly, he loses himself to the feeling of salvation as your thighs begin to tremble, your body growing tense beneath his.
Gojo grits his teeth, pulling himself together, worshipping your skin like a man who has nothing else to lose. His reverence turns into desperation as your nails bite his shoulders, leaving marks in their wake as your orgasm crashes over you.
"Satoru— Satoru." You utter his name like a prayer as you ride out your release, moaning as you clench around his cock, seeing stars. Gojo groans as you squeeze him in pulses, thrusting him into you with abandon.
He finds serenity in your expression and devotes himself to the religion that is fucking you. Before he knows it, he's already falling apart, blinded by nothing but white, and kissing you until he's no longer burdened by his sins.
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to-hypnos-we-dream · 4 days
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Welcome to the Temple of Hypnos, a sacred place of worship to the God of Sleep.
This is a digital temple one may return to whenever and wherever. All are welcome to the Temple of Hypnos, mind that this is a safe place for all systems, non-humans, disabled people, queer people, and people of color. Bigots will not be tolerated as this is a space of healing.
Our Mission Statement:
{It is our goal to create a community in which worship and devotion to Hypnos is held in a safe and soothing space. We honor Hypnos through offerings, prayers, discussion, and more. There is no strict path in the worship of Sleep, for all perspectives are welcome here.}
I, Ardyn, am the Cleric of this temple. I am sleep angelkin and have been alongside Hypnos since before this life. You may refer to me using He/It/Dark/Sleep pronouns. I'm a genderqueer intersex transfem trans man. This is not just my place of worship, but yours. I have made this for all of us, may we rejoice before the winged deity, Hypnos.
As this is your place of worship, you may submit any form of devotion. You may also ask or discuss anything you desire that is related to Hellenism or Hypnos. This may include art, prayers, experiences, offerings, poetry, spells, dreams, and more to present within the temple. You may also request anything from us, whether prayers, rituals, digital offering boards, and more. Community events may be held, and more is to be added as we grow.
To all who come across this blog; May you all be presented with loving dreams tonight and ever so gentle rest. Blessed be Hypnos.
Resources
Hypnos Devotee List
Hellenic and Hypnos Resources Masterpost
Hypnos Prayers
Hypnos Devotional Act Guide Masterpost
Resources on Sleep and Dreams
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