#especially for a place that takes government insurance

[emmettland]

therapy went really well. :) she asked me a lot of questions and was very patient with me while i answered. i've never had a therapist tell me that i'm holding back my emotions while i speak...like, it checks out, but the amount of times she noticed it was surprising.

she ended our session by telling me that it seemed like there was a lot of heaviness and sadness inside me. which...yeah, checks out as well. i have a good feeling about her and we're set to meet every Thursday at 1 pm unless something changes.

#emmett speaks #and it's a REALLY nice place #especially for a place that takes government insurance #i've never sat on an actual couch during therapy before lol

[metalheadsforblacklivesmatter]

Why not make this because I'm just a filthy commie.

My thoughts on Disability (getting paid because you can't hold down a job due to your disability).

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

It should at least be minimum wage. (And minimum wage should cover average cost of living in that region.)

Housing, electricity, and plumbing should just be covered. Also accessible transportation.

Medical costs should be covered. 100%

It should supplement food (and restrictions shouldn't be so limiting to the point where people with food allergies can't eat)

You should not lose any amount of your disability just because you make a little income (if you can't make enough to live off of or hold down a full time job due to your disability, you should qualify)

Marriage should have zero impact on your disability.

You should be allowed to own a home (why the fuck can't you own a home? That's dumb shit.)

It should cover any changes that you need to make to your home to make it accessible.

If you rent a place and you suddenly get a short term disability (like cancer). Your apartment should be covered until you recover.

If you rent a place and you suddenly get hit with a long term disability (like long covid or certain types of cancer) and you have to be moved (like if you're renting a condo for $1million a month. It's a bit of an exaggeration but it gets the point across for its reasonable to not expect the government to cover that). Then moving costs should be covered.

Before the capitalists (derogatory) come in my comments "You're just mad because you're too dumb to work so you want free shit." (Because they always do when I post a commie take).

I am disabled, and I have a full time job that pays me quite well (and is very accommodating to my disability). I just don't think people whose disability are more limiting than mine should suffer. Especially because every single disabled person knows that stress exacerbates symptoms.

Like the stress of being forced to live off what is the equivalent $2/hr for full time work, being forced to find a living space that covers that, and trying to find food you're allowed to eat on supplemented income with dietary restrictions (because most disabled people have to eat what most people consider "unhealthy" to manage our disability).

Before capitalists (derogatory) say "Your disability doesn't make you eat unhealthy food". You just want an excuse to eat junk food. People with cystic fibrosis often require calorie counts similar to Olympic athletes because they can't digest food right. People with POTS often require ridiculous sodium intakes to help manage the symptoms of low blood pressure. And people with migraines often need high carb "junk foods" to help manage the low blood flow that comes with a migraine flare-up.

The disabled body is fucking WEIRD and what's healthy to most people isn't necessarily healthy to us, and we've found our ridiculous ways of eating through trial and error to find out what best helps us function. If you don't live in our body, you can't tell us what's good for us.

-fae

[genderqueerdykes]

Testosterone HRT Overview, Guide & Information for All People Seeking It

Hello, we're a genderqueer person who's been taking testosterone HRT since 2015. I've also worked in a pharmacy and we've seen a lot of the roadblocks that comes with people trying to start HRT. Nobody really explains how difficult it can be, even when you get your prescription. Because testosterone is a controlled substance in many places, it creates hurdles. There can be a lot going on, and some folks become very disheartened if their T isn't covered by insurance. i get that. We wanted to create a relatively easy to digest and succinct post detailing some common hurdles people have to face on the doctor/prescriber and insurance level, as well as after getting their hormones. *please note that a lot of this information is United States centric as that's where i live, i can't give information for a country i've never lived in, unfortunately.*

The estrogen HRT version of this post is here!

Doctors, Insurance & Getting Your Prescription

If your primary care provider is already familiar and comfortable with prescribing HRT, you can go through them, find an informed consent clinic, or seek an endocrinologist or gender affirming care specialist. Planned Parenthood is a good option for many people. If you don't have insurance, check to see if your area offers medicaid or other low income insurance plans, T can get pricey in some areas, especially for topical. if you can't access insurance please look into services like GoodRx that offer coupons and discounted rates for prescriptions.

Here is a list of informed consent clinics in the US for HRT.

Your provider will ask you some questions about your experience with gender, any dysphoria, why you want to seek medical transition, if you'd like to seek surgeries, assess your mental health, and then screen you for potential health problems or roadblocks. Your liver enzymes will be screened, as will your hormone levels, blood pressure, and some other things. Make sure your doctor knows to note that you are a transgender patient so that your blood tests are not discarded because your gender says "F" instead of "M" on the paperwork.

In some areas it is required to seek treatment with a therapist who specializes in transgender care to make sure this avenue is right for you. Not everywhere requires this step.

Make sure you talk to whoever is prescribing the testosterone to you about insurance, and if they are aware that testosterone is a controlled substance. A controlled substance is a substance that has been restricted by your country's government or governing medical organization and has to be monitored carefully. You need what's called a "prior authorization" from your doctor in order to get your insurance to give you your hormones in most states. Talk to your doctor and pharmacy about prior authorizations for your testosterone and syringes if you need them.

Currently, the only forms of testosterone available for masculinizing HRT are testosterone cypionate (injectable), topical gel, and patches. Topical forms are usually applied daily, injections can be done once or twice a week, or even more or less frequently if a person needs it. There is no pill option available for masculinizing HRT currently.

Do NOT become disheartened if you do not see the effects you want to see right away. It can take several years for the full effects of certain aspects of medical transition to show themselves. Stay patient, talk with your provider, talk to other trans people!

Stay patient, Stay positive!

HRT and Administering Testosterone

When you get a prescription, how things go will depend on if you get your doses administered at the clinic, or if you choose to do them at home. If you are not comfortable self administering, ask if they will at the clinic. many places offer this service.

if you choose to administer at home, if you are using injectable T, note that pharmacies may give you the wrong gauges of needles because they don't often give out needles for HRT. You need two different sizes- a thicker, longer needle for drawing from the vial, as testosterone cypionate is thick. You will generally be given large 18g needle for drawing and a small 22 or 23g needle for injecting. Many people have preferences for different gauges so ymmv. Depending on if you are injecting intramuscularly or subcutaneously the gauge of the needle with vary. Sanitize your injection site and your hands, never using the same needle tips twice for any reason. Never use needles that have touched another surface, and get a sharps container.

Make sure you are injecting in different spots every time you inject. you do not want to inject into the same patches of skin every time, as this can cause tissue damage, tissue death (necrosis), and severe scarring after long periods of time of having to heal but being interrupted over and over again. inject into slightly different spots every time to make sure your skin and muscle tissue can heal.

Here is a guide on safely injecting your own testosterone, including steps on how to prepare your skin for the injection, hold the vial while drawing, change needles, and more.

Another guide for hormone injections.

Make sure to check with your provider to see what type of injection you are meant to do, many do intramuscular injections, but many opt for subcutaneous (just below the skin) injections because they are less painful and require less frequent injections.

If you receive topical testosterone like androgel or other alcohol based testosterone gels, make sure you read the informational packet that comes with it to ensure you are administering it in the correct areas- your exact formulation will need to be applied in a certain area, if you do not have the guide or packet that came with it, please read this page to figure out where you need to apply it. if your topical T isn't working you may be applying it in the wrong place.

When applying topical T, make sure you clean the skin before putting it on, and do not shower or go swimming for 2 - 5 hours after application. make sure you cover the skin with some kind of clothing. You want to make sure it doesn't rub off on other people, as other people can absorb it as well by touching you. Do not ever have someone else apply topical testosterone for you, even if they are also trans, as this can mess with their levels in a bad way.

After starting T you may have to adjust your dose over time to achieve desired effects. if so, you will start on a starter dose and then you can move up to higher doses as your body adjusts. This process is called titration.

No matter HOW tempting it is, NEVER TAKE MORE T THAN YOU ARE PRESCRIBED! It is processed through your liver, which can completely wreck it if you take more than it can handle. Slow and steady wins the race with HRT. If you take too much T at once, your body can also aromatize it, meaning your body will convert it and encourage the production of further estradiol, which will provide unwanted effects. Do not increase your dose without your doctor's advice or knowledge, and do not go any faster than advised.

Effects of Testosterone HRT

Growth and thickening of facial and body hair begins 3 - 6 months after treatment starts and the full effect happens within 3 - 5 years.

Menstruation (periods) stop. This occurs around 2 - 6 months within starting treatment, and is one of the most desired effects.

Voice deepens. The vocal cords thicken, which can cause uncomfortable sensations in the throat for a time, such as a scratchy feeling, dryness, tightness, pressure, and a 'sore' throat that isn't sore in an illness related way. This begins 3 - 6 months after treatment starts, and the full effect happens in 1 - 2 years.

Body fat redistribution begins 3 - 6 months after treatment starts and the full effect happens within 3 - 5 years.

Growth or enlargement of Adam's apple.

Clitoris grows larger, and vaginal lining can thin and become drier. Some experience vaginal atrophy and/or painful levels of dryness, while some maintain a healthy level of vaginal fluids without problem. This begins 3 - 12 months after treatment starts, and the full effect is usually seen within 1 - 2 years, though some experience growth over a long period of time if their dose is low.

Change in body odor and increased sweating occurs within 1 - 3 months of starting treatment.

Muscle mass and strength increase, this will begin within 6 - 12 months and the full effect will be seen within 2 - 5 years.

Possible libido increase, though some report no changes or even the inverse.

Potential but not guaranteed balding or receding hairline, which is treatable, and not seen in everyone.

Potential increase in energy in general, some report an almost antidepressant like effect.

Possible increase in red blood cell production leading to high blood pressure, which is treatable via medications and donating red blood cells when appropriate and safe.

There is not really a guide book to masculinizing HRT and medical transition, most of the information there is is passed along between each of us. We will continue to edit this post as we think of more important information.

#transmasculine #transmasc #testosterone hrt #hrt #testosterone #trans men #trans man #trans guys #trans guy #trans boy #ftm #trans dude #nonbinary #enby #non binary #demiboy #demiguy #transmasc lesbian #transmasculine lesbian #butch lesbian #butch #trans #transgender #intersex #information #resources #save #insurance #injection mention #needle mention

[five-thousand-loaves-of-bread]

poke hornet nest

my stance on ABA

(my stance on ABA)

as someone with (some) lived experience

most of it is shit.

for long time in past and even now, ABA only service available for a lot autistic people & family.

most of it (< ABA*) still is shit. (*this disclaimer applies to rest of repetition)

heard of more than enough cases of. insurance/school system/etc give pathetic number of hours/sessions for speech, OT, etc for autism but many more hours of ABA. or only cover ABA.

most of it still shit.

some speech & OT & other so called “alternatives to ABA” use behavioral & ABA tactics.

most of it still shit.

for many family, especially those with autistic person diagnosed as “severe” or level 3 and or have extreme behavioral issues etc. their option isn’t “ABA or no ABA.” often, option is “ABA or be labeled as abusive neglectful by government” or “ABA or have child taken away” “you ‘willingly’ enroll in ABA or we take and put them in ABA anyway” or “ABA or lose job.”

most of it still shit.

“ABA or lose job” because school not able or not willing help (because autistic person’s needs “that much”), you keep getting called to pick them up from school, from day care. other people not know how “deal with” your autistic family member, you know how help them a little more but also you sure as hell don’t and are just as lost. so you keep miss work to go pick them up from places that kick them out and you exhausted and you not get sleep because autistic family member needs pretty constant supervision and you not have respite and you not know how help and eventually your job fires you because you keep miss work. and oh did ever mention caring for disabled person extremely expensive? but oh btw there ABA agency you can send autistic family member to for up to 40 hour/week so maybe you can keep job and thus keep roof over head and can still put food on table for family for your autistic family member. oh they also say they may able help with autistic family member behavior so maybe they don’t get kicked out of every necessary service.

most of it still shit.

ABA agencies frequently kick out people deemed too severe or “cannot be helped” or too violent or too many behavioral issues or cause too much harm.

most of it still shit.

in world where may & very often do kill you for seeing you as different thus “threat,” ability mask life saving survival tactic. am talking about POC. am specifically especially talking about Black people. is teaching how mask greater evil than dead killed hatecrimed? sure, no one should have to choose between these two options, but world not care about your morals n your “should”s n your envisioned better future you may or may not be actively help build right now, these people need survive in real world here and now.

most of it still shit.

there (some. a few.) ABA survivors who went thru ABA in past and now who think ABA helped. helped them gain skill. help them prevent harm. some of them don’t see self as abused in ABA or traumatized by ABA. some see it as both abused and helped and grateful for help and hate abuse. some see as both abused and helped and don’t see amount of helped as ever worth abuse.

most of it still shit. (so many were & are abused. n abuse is abuse)

many newer ABA agencies realize ABA heavily criticized n labeled abusive & say they change methods & no longer practice old school ABA & now no longer abusive.

most of it still shit. (many of these agencies still do coercive abusive stuff even if call themselves changed)

some of them maybe truly changed. getting rid of abusive practices, focusing on skill building & adaptive functioning, child-led, instead of drills and forced masking.

most of it still shit.

talk a lot with people who so adamant about “all ABA abuse” “all parents who put child into ABA abused deserve get child taken away” who never was in personal proximity of ABA who. when ask to describe what ABA is in own words, not able to. or give generic response like “abuse & force mask”, but when ask to describe specific methods they do that, not able to. when ask them what discrete trial training and prompting is and what goals may look like and how they write behavioral analysis, never heard of any of them. say listen to ABA survivors, but not able name any individual names. just “oh listen to them online, if you actually listen like me you would know & i wouldn’t need say more so it really your ignorance.” but more often, just get reactionary shut down whole conversation be seen as ableist threat if even be asked first question. how you help advocate for ABA survivors if don’t even know what ABA is? or who ABA survivors? if cannot even talk about ABA? how even fight against your enemy if don’t even know what enemy look like, not able pick out enemy from crowd unless spoon fed?

most of it still shit.

found that. when am talking about ABA. from add nuance to encourage thought provoking questions to even rhetorically ask people to describe ABA. have to repeat emphasize that am not saying ABA all not abusive. even if it first thing i lead with. even if it super clear that am indeed criticizing ABA, just with more grey area and nuances than people used to. lot people will block me from this post just within some paragraphs. lot will block me over saying “most of it still shit” instead of denounce all ABA, when it clear that use of word “most” is deliberate choice n reason of said choice is in every corner of this post. others will finish reading (if even that) and all get out of is repeating “most of it still shit.” made similar posts year(s) ago. and still, find people vague post or explicitly post about me or my post, paint me as evil ABA apologist. whenever come across people who talk about “post where talk about ABA good,” stop and wonder, are they talking about me?

don’t want to talk about ABA because of this. tired, not worth it, often is bad starting point is turn off for people who never seen my posts when have other posts much easier entry point, n start off at bad start may cause them to not listen to me and maybe even other higher support needs and or nonverbal nonspeaking autistics in foreseeable future or ever.

you know, this post started off as “… so you all know i don’t think kindly of ABA right”

throughout write this post, don’t know which part am emphasizing more. the “most of it still shit” part or parts in between.

still. most of it still shit.

#loaf screm #aba tw #aba therapy tw #long post #repetition

[bcolfanfic]

Mollie I’m in desperate need of Curt HC’s from the young vet au!!! If you want!! Please don’t let me annoy you about it!!! <3

these are dedicated to @johnslittlespoon bc i associate curt with them <3

most importantly, he ain’t dead! this is an AU and i make the rules, yay

still from new york, still a little crazy

this is in the 21st century and post don’t ask don’t tell being abolished. but people are still people and a handful still give bucky and gale shit when they pick up on their relationship. curt is protective of them and gets into more than one yelling match and/or brawl coming to their defense

puts himself in charge of making the hype up playlists for the field and takes it super seriously. doesn’t take requests either, everyone just has to trust his judgment.

when he gets his leg blown off by a land mine and goes home he says they aren’t allowed to let anyone else make the playlists, he’ll keep doing it from the states.

but before he leaves when he’s still in the hospital in bagram he gets in his head about how he wasn’t doing anything “noble” when he got hurt and was just in the wrong place at the wrong time

bucky tells him that doesn’t mean anything- that his being here at all was noble and nothing can take that away.

curt says he doesn’t know about that, and sees bucky’s face shift.

they change the topic.

the guys are all bummed to see him go home but bucky is *crushed*. gale sits up with him the first couple nights he’s gone and rubs his back while he cries. he just really misses his buddy 💔

when curt gets back to the states he gets a service dog that’s the most spoiled dog on earth. that’s his baby and he names it some goofy human name like tony soprano.

he keeps in touch with everyone while they’re still over seas. but the first people he sees when they’re back stateside are gale and bucky- flying out to visit once they’re settled in wyoming.

he knew bucky wasn’t doing great, but actually seeing how bad he’s doing in the flesh makes his gut twist. especially when he brushes it off. especially when he can see it in gale’s eyes how worried and exhausted he is.

it comes to a head one night when bucky and gale get into argument and bucky goes from 0-100 in about 60 seconds. curt steps in to intervene, tells bucky to come outside with him and smoke to cool off.

bucky tells him to fuck off and mind his business.

“we don’t need a couples therapist, get the fuck outta’ my god damn house.”

“yeah no can do bucky. not letting you talk to gale like this, or me. get outside. now.”

but bucky is stubborn and just doesn’t move. gale looks near tears and before curt can think better of it he smacks bucky upside the head.

“look at what you’re doing to him- you think this shit is cute? when’s the last time he raised his voice at you off the cuff?”

gale tells him to stop, even if he does appreciate someone else trying to get through to him.

tells him to stop because he knows what’s coming when he sees bucky’s bottom lip shake.

bucky bursts into tears and presses his hands into his eyes- mumbling about being too fucked up for all of this as his chest heaves.

“i got my shit too man, come on, let’s go outside.”

bucky follows him this time and they sit out there for 2 hours talking about the war and the government and PTSD and the VA’s office.

which is apparently just as incompetent in new york.

but bucky can’t help but laugh at one of curt’s gripes with them being that his insurance would cover an a-typical prosthetic, not a peg leg from some guy that manufactures them in his garage upstate.

he needed that laugh.

“i put gale through too much. feel like he regrets getting a marriage certificate the second we came back. not settlin’ down with some girl. not like he’d have a hard time getting one.”

“hey- no way. he loves you. wouldn’t be so bent up seeing you hurting if he didn’t. if he wanted out- he wouldn’t be here. you’re the self destructor, all respect. not buck.”

bucky taps his cig in the ash tray on the patio table.

“when you’d get so smart?”

“gotta compensate for havin’ one less leg with something.”

#young vets au #buck x bucky #clegan #curt biddick #curtis biddick #masters of the air

[autumnmobile12]

My Hero Academia: Healthcare?

I don't know if any fanfic writers will find this useful or not, but I think the information is interesting and worth speculation in the My Hero setting. This also applies to any fanfic writers in the anime fandoms who want to have more immersive and in-depth writing. Obviously, writing fics that are 'accurate' is not a requirement since the point is to have fun, but here's some knowledge to use (or not use) if anyone is interested.

Obviously, Deku's been in the hospital a lot. A lot of the characters are injured and in the hospital a lot. But for all the hospital visits, nobody in the series is going to be bankrupted by astronomical healthcare costs. (Yes, that's a jab at America's system.) And it's not because the Pros, especially the popular ones, have money.

Here's why:

Quick rundown of how healthcare in Japan works: Everybody receives healthcare, everybody has health insurance. In Japan, your employer is legally required to provide you with health insurance. If you are unemployed, you will be on a community healthcare plan. There is also a plan for citizens over the age of 75. This also applies to foreigners who have established permanent residence of three months or longer.

Article 25 of Japan's Constitution is paraphrased as follows:

“all people shall have the right to maintain a certain standard of healthy and cultured life” and that “the state shall try to promote and improve the conditions of social welfare, social security, and public health” for this purpose.

I'm not going to reiterate the system in its entirety, but if you would like to learn more, this site here (the Article 25 quote I used is also found on that page) has a brief and comprehensive explanation of how healthcare is handled. However, one thing I am going to mention that is relevant for Deku and other Pros is the threshold out-of-pocket expense.

In Japan, citizens enrolled in healthcare do not spend more than ¥90,000 per month out of pocket, protecting them from financial disaster.

(To Americans, this may sound like a sweet deal, but hold your horses because Japan also funds this system through heavy taxation. Medical procedures are expensive and people will be paying for them one way or another.)

The question that needs asking now is how does this system apply to the hero society? Well, first off, since My Hero does take place in a slightly futuristic setting, we could take into consideration the system has been revised.

Assuming not much as changed, are heroes that operate their own agency technically considered business owners and are required to insure their employees and sidekicks?

Or...

Because they are all government employees, is the Safety Commission responsible for insuring all heroes and sidekicks no matter what they rank in their popularity?

Personally, I think it would be the latter since, in the coldest sense of the word, the heroes are essential to the Commission in upholding their system. So that makes them an asset. The Commission would want to protect its assets because as shady as they are, their own system could work against them. They certainly don't want heroes going on strike for lack of benefits or complaining the government doesn't take care of their people. So I assume it's the Commission who is covering insane healthcare costs on behalf of heroes.

(And since the system is probably funded by taxpayers' money, that also feeds into the prevalent societal discontent that's ongoing throughout the series.)

Now what about Deku and his classmates since they have not graduated and are not officially licensed yet? Honestly, I think it's probably UA itself that insures the students. That probably has to do with accreditation and so on, which is another matter entirely, but again, the backing is likely coming out of the Commission (and taxpayers') pockets.

And there you have it. Happy writing, happy research.

#my hero academia #deku #izuku midoriya #pro heroes #speculation #worldbuilding #boku no hero academia #bnha #mha #hpsc #the safety commission #healthcare #fanfiction #fanfic writing #research #archive of our own #ao3

[enrosadiraanisaaa]

Within Session .Part Four.

Hey there cuties, glad to finally post another part of Within Session! This fanfic consist of Yandere!Leon Kennedy. I intend for this fic to progressively become disturbing and fucked up with each chapter. While the first few chapters will be tamed, expect the following in this series:

~Stalking, Kidnapping, Forced Breeding, Degradation, NonCon, Gang Banging, Forced Pregnancy, Somnophilia, Blackmail, Manipulation, Abuse, Pet Names, Obsessive Behavior (Duh), Torture, Constraints, Mentions of Blood & Gore, Mental Degradation, Toxic Relationship, Sexual Abuse, Masturbation, Drugged & Drunk Sex, Loss of Virginity, Forced Penetration…

Also you will be retconned (Too bad 😏): Female Reader, 24 Years old and from Texas 💝

This story was purely written with RE 4 (Remake) Leon in mind. So no puppy dog Leon from RE2 or DILF Leon from later games & movies. The story takes place several months after the events of RE4. Yay, you’re in 2004!

I plan to make this series long and fleshed out, but I promise what you want will hit you like a train~🚂

This chapter does not contain any 🔞 material. This story will contain +18 content (NSFW) in the near future 🔞 If you’re a minor, please go read a real book or something, don’t cry to me when your mom finds your shit.  This story will eventually hit that point so don’t set yourself up.

Summary

As an on sight therapist for STRATCOM in Nebraska, you’re tasked with providing quality therapy for US military personnel and government agents. After working at the headquarters for 6 months, Hunnigan recommends you to a notable government agent, Leon Kennedy, who is in need of therapy. After a number of sessions with you, Leon notices a substantial stability in his sanity yet is threatened when you are offered a position back home, closer to your family and friends. Your choice doesn’t sit well with one particular client, who can’t fathom you out of your role as his therapist. Leon has found a means of keeping his precious therapist and realizes you are the key to his permanent solace. You were obviously destined to be his in some form. Why dream of him letting you go?

A\N: I was heavily inspired by Satoshi Kon’s Perfect Blue 💙, ExploreVenus’s Something Permanent and Guardian Angel by NexysWorld. We're getting closer to the nitty gritty of the story. Hope y'all like this bit slice of life before shit gets fucked up. Expect the next part to be out around in two weeks.

Hope y'all enjoy the forth part! More to come 💝~ Anisssa أنيسة

Here is Part One , Part Two, and Part Three of Within Session

Cherish These Moments

Silence soon settled into the office when Leon departed out of the room after the conclusion of his session. Typically, the end of the day consists of reflecting on each session into notes. These notes along with legal documentations and insurance sheets are submitted to your supervisor every day. Now alone in the office, you were seated at your desk, hastily typing on the keyboard while staring at the computer screen to complete these synopsis to turn in so you can leave for home. It was tedious work after consulting a number of clients throughout the day, which compelled you to finish these tasks immediately following the last client. As much as you loved your job, required work tasks such as these were mundane and annoying.  

       At this time, you were well aware the sky was already night outside due to it being the middle of winter. The drive home was always more extensive than you would like to admit due to the snow that has accumulated over the roads, and as a Texan, you were not well versed in driving in these conditions. People back home would swear up and down hell froze over if an inch of snow touched Texas soil, but snow was an ordinary occurrence in the Midwest, especially in Omaha, Nebraska. 

Eventually, you complete all the necessary notes after 40 minutes and send them through an encrypted email to your supervisor. A groan escapes your lips as you stretch up from your desk chair, standing after being seated for most of the day. With the documents and signature sheets in one hand, you turn to your chair to pull off your oversized coat from the back of your chair.

      “Fucking finally, I’m out this bitch,”You mutter in a whisper to yourself, stepping out the office and turning to lock the door. In tip-toed steps to quiet the clacks of your heels in the hallway, you reach a few doors down to slide in the documents and signature sheets in a plastic wall file holder. Now, walking in the opposite direction, you head towards the entrance of the building. While the steps of your heels echoed, you swung the oversized wool trench coat around the back of your body to stuff your arms in the sleeves. At the sight of your own red blazer and form fitting skirt, an involuntary huff resonates from within as you recall Leon’s stare upon your outfit, his sly remark and odd begrudging attitude when he first notices your attire.

     “Dude’s weird…”

          You simply shrug, tightening the sash to keep your oversize coat wrapped around your body as you brace to trudge cautiously in this godforsaken weather. Upon opening the entrance door of the building, the penetrating cold immediately stings your skin. Among the rows of cars in the parking lot of the building, you instantly locate your car that was slightly covered in flurries. Your baby- a cherry colored 1986 Nissan 300zx with turbo and T-tops that was bestowed to you as a parting gift from your father. This car was a part of your life since childhood, the memories of riding in the passenger seat while the t-tops were off impeded as staple moments you cherished. 

         Around the parked cars of the parking lot, you scurry towards your car, nearly slipping the process. Once inside your car, you turn the ignition on with the turn of your key, allowing the car to warm up. Thoughts of Leon invade your mind once more as you rest back on the driver's seat. During the session, you notice his attempted subtle glances and him anatomizing your figure. While Leon was fairly attractive, you hope this was not a recurring thing in future sessions, or he might have to be referred to another therapist. Violating boundaries and etiquette as a therapist could cost your career, and all the endeavors you endured in the past would be in vain for a man. ‘Not fucking worth it.’

      With that last thought, you shift the gear into drive, steering the car cautiously out the parking lot of the USSTRATCOM headquarters to proceed home. Through desolate roads, you navigate in ceaseless fall of sleet during nighttime, ultimately arriving an hour later in front of an old Victorian house. Once your car is parked on the side of the street, you venture towards the entrance of the house from your car. 

     The Victorian house was renovated into two apartments, the upstairs and downstairs into their own sections. Along with a roommate, you rented the upstairs section of the house that consisted of two bedrooms, one bathroom, a small living room and kitchen. 

      With your belongings in hand, you unlock the door to your upstairs apartment, making your entrance known to your roommate. 

       “Daddy’s home!”You holler upon opening the front door in amusement. 

     From the kitchen, a head peeped out to reveal your roommate, a 19 year old Mexican kid from California, Mateo. At this point of living six months with him, he became like a little brother to you, although you never understood why a profound kid like him lived in this city. 

      His caramel colored eyes peered from behind the wall, narrowing at you across the room before he visibly rolled his eyes. Mateo steps from the kitchen, clearly shaking his head at you as he glances disappointedly at your attire,”Ay pendeja, there you again, wearing a skirt in the middle of winter…” he exhales, walking towards you at the entrance. 

      In response to him, you shut the front door with a sly grin, loosening the sash of your wool trench coat to further reveal your attire. “Hey! I already had a new client today ogle at my outfit today! I don’t need you to say something…” You protest, walking past Mateo to set your belongings down on the couch in the living room. 

     A snicker can be heard from Mateo as he strides by your side,”Oh, they assigned you a new client today? And they were looking at your outfit?”He questions, crossing his arms.

     You nod, sighing in the process,”Yeah, they assigned a new client today on short notice, but I don't mind having new cases. Just this new client… he kept glancing at me during the session with this certain gaze. I don’t want to already form an impression based on the first intake session of a client, but I don’t know. And my friend who is a colleague of his recommended me…”

       While Mateo was intrigued by this revelation, he raised his eyebrows at you,”Oh, well is he cute?”He asks with a grin on his face, obviously to fuck with you.

       There was a momentary pause from you as you huff in annoyance,”Well yes, he is extremely cute…but I don’t want to think about a client in that way,” You continue, providing a playful glare to the brunet beside you. 

        “What’s his name?” Mateo inquires again, resulting in your eyes to narrow at him in suspicion. 

         “Leon,”You simply answer, unsure where he was going with this conversation. 

         “Oh shit, his name sounds hot. What does he look like?” He chuckles with a cunning smile. 

           A perplexed expression forms on your face, shaking your head to his inquiry about your attractive client. At this moment, you kick off your heels before you plunge onto the couch despite wearing your work attire, allowing the cushions of the couch to engulf your body into a state of ease. “Mateo… I was trying to describe my day at work to you, not for you to devise a plan to fuck my client. I know you, Mateo. The dude seems broken enough,”You relent, peering at Mateo from the couch. 

      From Mateo, an audible gasp escapes his mouth followed by a guilty grin,”Me? I would never… Anyways… I have something you might like but you wanna come home all snarky.”

      You instantly prop yourself on your elbows while laying back on the couch,”Aww, you got me something? Show me!” You demand, watching Mateo briefly leave the side of the couch before returning by your side to gently smack your face with a plastic cover. As stunned as you were, your eyesight instantly unblurs to reveal the hard case cover for Halo 2, directly in your face.

       With a drop of your mouth, you direct your attention up to Mateo as he stands beside you while you lay the couch,”No fucking way, you bought me the new Halo?”

     Mateo retracts the game case from your face while he smiles proudly at your reaction,”Yes! I was thinking we would invite the guys over after work on Friday for a little party… Do you have anything planned for Friday night?” He asks curiously. 

      A seething sound emits from your mouth as you recall plans for Friday night,”Damn, I promised Hunnigan I’d join her for some late night bingo,” You inform Mateo, forming a pout on your lips.

To your answer, Mateo merely shrugs while waving the game case with his hand as if he was enticing you,”It’s your call, or you can get your little bingo dauber and bet money you will no doubt lose,” He expresses with smugness. 

       You pout, contemplating how you will spend your Friday night,”But I want to spend time with my girl, Hunnigan… Fine, I will reschedule with her for a dinner date or something…Only because I want to beat ass in that game!”You huff, raising yourself from the cushions of the couch to sit up.

        By leaning over the other side of the couch, your hand reaches inside your purse to pull out a pink Motorola flip phone. Upon flipping the phone open, you immediately press buttons to dial the phone number of Hunnigan. Several rings pass until you hear a familiar feminine voice,”Hey, are you okay?” Her voice responds. A guilty sensation blooms in your chest, you were timid to cancel plans with her. Seconds pass by, you seem to have paused longer than you should.

       “Are you calling about Leon? Did the session go okay with him?” Hunnigan then asks on her end, her voice consisting of a slight concern.

        “Ah no, it’s not about that. Something actually came up on Friday… I was wondering if I can join you for bingo another time…” You finally answer in a nervous tone.

       A light giggle can be heard through the phone,”It’s fine, we can schedule another bingo date some other time.”

        You sigh in relief, clutching the cell phone to your ear,”Sweet, maybe a dinner date in the city? It’ll be my treat…”

      “Definitely…Well, I have to be at the headquarters building early in the morning. Let’s speak later about it another time,” Hunnigan then gently remarks.

       “Sounds good! Goodnight, Hunnigan!” You beamed before ending the call, clamping the flip phone shut. With a cheesy grin, you whirl your torso to Mateo, who is leaning against the couch,”She was okay with it…so party on Friday? Maybe we can make it a recurring thing on the weekends with the guys…” You suggest while nodding. 

      Mateo chuckled at your proposal,”Maybe…” he simply states.

A smile formed on your lips now that there was something to look forward to on the weekends. However, you would have to persevere through the remaining days of the week, especially with the last client on Friday.

#leon kennedy #re4 leon #yandere!leon kennedy #yandere!leon x reader #resident evil #leon kennedy x reader #leon x fem reader #resident evil 4 remake #female reader #within session #ingrid hunnigan #resident evil 4 #ada wong

[racefortheironthrone]

I have watched most of the fandom believe that dorne is a progressive place, and while compare to the rest westeros it is truth, especially when it comes to women inheritance isn't it a bit too much to believe that it is socially progressive as well?

Like, sure for the female elite it much better to live on dorne. But I don't see Doran surround himself and take council with merchants or commonfolk that studied or erudite people.

Am i wrong?

It's true that Doran organizes his government on typical feudal lines, but it's also true that the rank-and-file Dornish, the "Dornish in the street," seem to have a louder and more accepted voice in shaping public opinion than the smallfolk of Westeros. However, I think when we look to social progressivism in Dorne, our best example is the policies promoted by Sylvenna Sand during the Moon of the Three Kings: using the child Gaemon Palehair as her mouthpiece, Sylvenna promulgated decrees that equalized inheritance between male and female children, mandated a bread and beer dole in times of famine, estabished a crude form of disability insurance for veterans, and punished wife-beaters. I think this speaks to a broader social progressivism in Dornish culture that goes beyond issues of gender equality to embrace at least a proto-concept of social welfare. As to whether it's all a bit much to believe, I think GRRM is borrowing from certain histories of the post-1066 wars of expansion that framed Wales as being a more egalitarian society than Norman England, based on certain Welsh legal customs around inheritance, etc.

#asoiaf #asoiaf meta #dorne #social policy #medieval wales

[zoroara]

Here's a question I'll probably have to sleep with one eye opened for. Rip my poor soul, I know the Varia are gonna hate me for this one 🤣 But I thought it was fun, so *shrugs*

If the Varia members could have any other occupation that isn't mafia based,what would it be? (This question includes everyone *waves at the ocs you have*)

Oh boy is that ever a question, well that's pretty easy for the OCs at least So I'll start with them. For the non-ocs take em with a grain of salt because there's no perfect fit past what they're already in there is going to be HELL with them either way.

Vittorio is the absolute easiest, assuming a weapons manufacturer is off the table because while that can exist outside of the mafia, that is very similar to what they are already. But any sort of mechanical work would be a job they'd love.

Silenziatore is a bit not quite what you'd expect. See Silen absolutely loves animals, even tries to play with the box animals when their owners aren't around. He's decently good with people and if it paid decently well he'd be pretty okay with working at a pet shop or even a pet groomers. You're not supposed to try and cuddle the animals at the zoo even as a zoo keeper so it's probably best he doesn't work there however.

Nascosta Okay that's a doozy, there's actually a lot of jobs they could work if they weren't so ready to beat the shit out of people for slights. But they absolutely love attention, both for their strength and looks as well as showing the fuck off, are a fantastic actor and fighter, so the logical conclusion? They'd make an amazing wrestling heel. Not the immediately thought until you remember they need to be as physically strong as the people they mimic and they sure are able to mimic the other varia executives. They are hiding muscles with their mist flames.

Tyr is really funny, especially since I actually ended up with an au recently with it, because it's out of left field. See no job except the one he currently has would every work out for him so he'd be deeply unsatisfied in everything. So he'd actively seek out a job he absolutely hated but was good enough at to keep, because he's the type of person if he can't be happy he may as well be downright miserable. So he'd end up in a library, working in a quiet little place, shelving books dealing with people, so on. It's a jarring sight for sure, but he at least does a good job

Now onto the Canons, again the easiest to place first:

Honestly I think the Levi could thrive in any work environment, he is constantly early, always on top of things, his only issue is he's sometimes a little clumsy and can occasionally get lost without some sort of guiding system, like in the drama cds. Of course I don't think he'd like an office job and probably needs something more physical as with most of Varia honestly. He's probably do a good job in a more government position having to deliver documents and things.

Mammon literally anything that handles money and gets paid a lot, fuck they could probably just be an accountant, or maybe run a fucking insurance firm you KNOW they would get so much out of that. Life insurance? you know it. Good god would they bleed you out. I think that's too much power to give.

Lussuria's pretty straightforward too, I mean in his little interview section he was apparently the youngest body building champion, he could easily go back to those sorts of championships if he wanted, or maybe some sort of modeling career. He has some good options for sure. there's also another potential depending on how much medical knowledge you believe Lussuria to have, he could potentially be a pathologist.

Squalo, ohhh Squalo, see I have, funny answers for these ones and more serious ones. Though with his tolerance which while yes he's constantly being pissed off he's also just. constantly being prodded by his co-workers he probably could make it in anything literally less stressful than the current job he has. But regardless, with his sword skills, either competition wise(he really could be an Olympic level fencer if his dumb ass would like be satisfied with not killing his opponent), or teaching wise are potentials. I did have a really funny au where Squalo lost his memories and ended up working at an aquarium, mostly taking care of the sharks.

Now Xanxus and Bel, oh god these two. Buddy, buddy I don't think they can HAVE jobs outside of the Varia. Do they have some form of skills that can be used in other jobs? absolutely. Can they tolerate/take orders from other people? absolutely the fuck NOT. The best you can do with Xanxus is stick him in SOME sort of leadership role where he won't be bothered and pray to god he doesn't come and kill you anyway. Bel? Dear lird. I don't even think you can do THAT.

He needs to have some level of respect for the people above him and unless you're a violent fuck like Xanxus is that sure isn't happening. He may be a prince but I don't even think he's anywhere fit to be in the position of a leader.(I know Rasiel would agree with me there). Those two are best fit right where they are and honestly it's doing the world a favour by keeping them there.

Edit: Upon further consideration if we consider freelance an option, Bel could likely work as an Ice sculptor with his skills and thanks to being able to be choosy once he gets as a popular option he'd be able to do what commissions he thinks are cool.

#ask answered #khr #khr headcanons #khr ocs #long post #levi a than #mammon | viper #belphegor #xanxus #superbi squalo #lussuria

[teagrl]

Accountability! Just bouncing around project to project. I have slowed down with Nar Shaddaa, stalled in the Coruscant riots one, and now I'm poking at the next boundaries installment.

Intrigued, Fuella had leaned forward and Mara turned her attention to the Lasat. “I did mean to ask about the Jedi.”

Mara blinked at her. “The what?”

“It’s the talk of all the smuggling circles. You have a Jedi working for you.”

Mara feigned a laugh. “A Jedi? Last I heard there’s the one and he’s in the government.”

“Some say Karrde is the government. His pockets are deep enough to have a Jedi on payroll.”

Mara laughed again over her unease. Was this Van’s way of pumping her for information? “I don’t think so. The Smuggler’s Alliance is a joint venture with other organizations. But it’s to your advantage because we know how to deal with the tariffs.” She lifted her index finger. “Not because we’re carrying a monk with a glowstick for extra insurance.”

Fuella’s eyes narrowed. “There’s talk about someone with a glowstick taking down Takara after he decided Karrde should pay him a personal visit a while back. A couple of someones.”

“Oh?” Mara shrugged. “That’s the new story these days? That Karrde’s going to sic Jedi on anyone who crosses him?”

“I hope not. That’s no way of doing business.” Her tone turned steely. “A Jedi’s got no place in our dealings. Especially if he’s with the Republic.”

“I don’t see why someone like that would even be interested in what we move or don’t.” Mara cocked her head. “Or even want the credits.”

Fuella nodded after a moment. “It does seem...outlandish. And Takara is not so reliable these days.”

#Mara Jade #my fic

[mariacallous]

Farmers in Greece and Romania are protesting, joining a wave of unrest in the farming community that has affected several countries in Europe.

In Karditsa, Evros, Patras, Peloponnese, and in Serres, northern Greece, farmers took to the streets on Wednesday with tractors. They have also threatened to close highways, media reported.

A bigger demonstration is planned for Friday in Thessaloniki on the occasion of the 30th Agrotica, the largest exhibition of the agro-economic sector in the country. Farmers warn that if the government does nothing by next Monday, roads will be closed.

Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis said things should not go to such extremes. “No matter how serious the demands of a professional group are, they must not lead to the punishment of all citizens and violate the rights of society. This government has proven that it is trying, without leading to extreme tension, to solve problems,” Marinakis told the public broadcaster ERT.

Farmers, among others, demand compensation for those who haven’t received it for the damage caused by Storm Daniel, which destroyed houses, businesses, animal and plant production and roads in Thessaly region in September.

They want the construction of infrastructure projects to protect against weather phenomena, reductions in production costs and a change in the Agricultural Insurance Organisation’s regulation so that the production and capital are compensated 100 per cent for all such risks.

The Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection has already granted 33.9 million euros to 16,400 agricultural holdings and livestock units that applied for “first aid,” with payments to be completed in the next period. PM Kyriakos Mitsotakis said there will be a second cycle of aid worth 5,000 to 10,000 euros for farmers affected by the extreme flooding of September 2023 in Thessaly and other areas.

Farmers in Romania meanwhile continue to protest and demand relief from high fuel and insurance prices and better selling prices for their products. The government has devised some solutions to the demands, but many are unconvinced and continue to protest.

Large-scale protests took place on Tuesday in Brasov and Sibiu, central Romania, whwre farmers took 50 agricultural machines to the streets and staged a march. An authorized protest was also organised by farmers from Sibiu, who started in a column with tractors, trucks and cars across the municipality.

Such protests are taking place in all major cities in Romania, including on the ring road of Bucharest, where farmers have been protesting for weeks and hindering traffic. They were not allowed to enter Bucharest to protest in front of the government building to avoid disrupting the already heavy traffic in the capital.

Farmers in France, Belgium and Germany have been holding demonstrations blocking highways, with Reuters reporting that Spanish and Italian farmers will now join the movement.

They are complaining about EU measures to create “solidarity corridors” in order to provide Ukraine with income from agricultural exports, especially wheat. These products have flooded neighbouring countries and caused local production prices to fall.

The protesters also demand the cancellation of measures to limit agricultural production due to its carbon footprint and affect on climate change. They want the restoration of fuel tax exemptions. Far-right parties in Germany and in France have expressed vocal support for farmers’ demands.

[menolly5600]

Is anyone else intensely confused about how Bruce Wayne lost the majority of his billionaire fortune and even lost Wayne Manor after Joker War?

Can anyone explain how Bruce lost billions of his total worth?

I feel like the writers don't know how money, assets, and business actually work...

Apparently Vandal Savage bought Wayne manor from the bank? How?

Bruce wouldn't sell his childhood, ancestral home and lands, especially with the Batcave underneath. It's the home he was raised in and one of his last links to his childhood, his parents and Alfred. The Wayne lands were a land grant to his ancestor Darius Wayne for distinguished service during the Revolutionary War. It's not like he had an unpaid mortgage where the bank could seize the manor.

It just doesn't make sense that he suddenly is so broke he can't even keep his childhood home so the bank sells it to Vandal Savage. He wouldn't have had a mortgage on his ancestral land grant. So the bank couldn't seize the manor. Even if he was just down to less than a hundred million dollars, he should still be able to afford the upkeep on the manor. It's not like his taxes take into account the Batcave as taxable square footage.

And if the manor and ancestral military service land grant was seized by the government, why?! You have any idea how many people would be up in arms at the thought that the government could seize anyone's home at the drop of a hat? Without even invoking eminent domain and going through the legal channels to do so? And not just anyone's home, but a rich person's home. Rich people across the nation would be throwing fits and money at legislators to get laws in place against sudden seizures of their homes. Or to legally prove the government overreached and doesn't have authority to do that.

If the government seized the property because of the Joker's actions then it still belongs to Bruce even if it's tied up in red tape as a crime scene. (And how did Joker gain possession of the manor in the first place? Certainly not in a legally recognized way, because he's the Joker. So it's stolen property to be returned to the rightful owner, Bruce.) Where are Bruce's lawyers to contest the seizure and unlawful sale?

And Bruce's reputation tanking makes no sense. The Joker stealing Wayne tech and money and using it to wage war against Gotham has nothing to do with Bruce being culpable for any of that. Brucie Wayne is a himbo playboy. He's a victim in this. Joker stole from him and used stolen property in his insane schemes. He does that all the time to other victims he steals from. Since when has being stolen from by a Rogue meant the people stolen from were at fault and culpable for the Rogue's crimes using the stolen property? Where is Bruce's PR team?

I still don't even understand how Joker got control of the company? He's a mass murdering domestic terrorist and judged clinically insane. There's no way his acquisition was legal. Then he stole everything from Bruce's bank accounts, but that's theft, not a legal transaction. So theft insurance with the bank should kick in.

Bruce was majority shareholder of Wayne Enterprises. This man plans for every contingency he can. There's no way he would own less than 51% of the shares in the company, to guarantee he remains in control of his company. Joker electronically draining his bank accounts of liquid cash wouldn't give him the shares. There's no way Joker could walk into the bank and legally claim the safe deposit boxes with legal documents, if they're even kept in the bank. Even if the Joker physically took control of the WE building and held it hostage to use the tech to make weapons, that doesn't mean he legally gained ownership.

Even if Bruce later was forced off the Board through a no confidence vote, he would still own the shares and receive dividends from them. Kicking him off the Board doesn't mean he's not still the majority shareholder. The Board cannot just revoke his shares, he owns them. How could they possibly force him to sell his shares? And if he did sell, he'd make a fortune from the selling. If he keeps the shares, he still would make tons of money from the company, unless the whole company went under.

Even if his bank accounts were cleaned out, millionaires and billionaires don't keep the majority of their worth in liquid cash assets sitting in banks. The majority of his wealth would be tied up in investments, companies, properties, stocks and bonds, trust funds, retirement portfolios, etc. He'd have to have people managing his portfolios and assets, otherwise he'd have no time to be Batman.

His asset portfolio managers would be people who would need way more than just an email or phone call telling them to liquidate his assets, before they'd tank his entire fortune portfolio. That's their highest profile client and a victim of past identity theft. No way would they dump his entire assets into a liquid bank account that someone could empty without all kinds of legal hoops and paperwork and triple verification in person that Bruce really wants them to set fire to his asset portfolio. That's not even taking into account that the banks would likely freeze Bruce's accounts at an unexpected massive attempted withdrawal of billions. That's a huge red flag in the bank systems.

Even if his bank accounts were cleaned out, banks have identity theft insurance. Bruce Wayne is his bank's biggest, highest profile client. Bruce is a past victim of identity theft. How could he not have identity theft insurance with his bank? The bank itself has theft insurance. And having Bruce's accounts all suddenly cleaned out and Bruce reporting it as an identity theft hacking crime means it's a bank account theft.

And apparently Catwoman stole Bruce's money back from the Joker, but then gave it to Lucius Fox to keep the FBI from watching the money. Why? It's legally Bruce's money. He had it before it was stolen, and the FBI weren't watching it then. Why would they monitor his spending now, if he got his liquid assets back? Are they looking for proof he's funding Batman? Legally, Bruce could put his money in overseas Swiss Bank and outside of the FBI jurisdiction, like rich people often do to hide what they spend on and how much they actually have. FBI couldn't do anything to stop him because it's perfectly legal to get a new bank account. It's more suspicious that Lucius Fox suddenly has billions in his bank account, right after Bruce's billions disappeared.

Unless they're trying to fraudulently collect insurance on the stolen money, and keep the retrieved money, it doesn't make sense to not return the money to Bruce. Am I missing something here?

It just doesn't make sense.

#dc #batman #bruce wayne #Wayne manor #Batman writers don't know how finances work #Joker War repurcussions make no sense #DC writers confuse taking ownership with theft

[likealittleheartbeat]

It’s only that representation does not address a core issue that allowed for the groups you want represented to be excluded in the first place and will continue to cause types of exclusion for certain groups of people to be represented and to create in the future. The same issue lies at the heart of the nepo baby discourse.

The problem is not someone’s inclusion in Hollywood or art or government. The problem is a financial system that prevents so many people the prolonged opportunity to take the risks and endure the early burdens of establishing a career in these fields. That sounds like some ‘pull themselves up by their boot straps’ bs, but what I mean is that someone can’t invest their time and skills in something if they’re afraid of going into insurmountable debt to go to school for it; someone can’t invest their time and skills they have to worry about a random injury or condition that requires medical treatment which would require medical insurance which they wouldn’t have while they’re out there kicking off their dreams; someone can’t invest their time and skills into something if they have people at home who financially depend on them; people can’t invest their time and skills into something if they have no resources or options to recover from addictions; someone can’t invest their time and skills if there are prohibitive hiring practices toward people who were previously convicted of a crime and they can’t get their records expunged no matter what they do (not to mention their lack of voting rights to do anything about it); someone can’t invest their time and skills if they are still paying off debts from generations ago (and heaven forbid we trace that back to when their family might have been freed from slavery only to be neglected by the federal government that failed to provide them with the financial necessities to do nearly anything but become a poorly paid laborer for their former master and did about just as little to prevent the violence and policies that foreclosed democratic power for those same people to elect people who could do anything about that condition); people can’t invest their time and skills when the financial backing depends on mass interest in the project but their language and/or own experiences are considered too local and niche to be ‘marketable.’

The problem, while ostensibly is about representation, is actually about an economic situation that forces a majority of the population to fight ten times harder to get their voice heard and produced by a select elite minority. Even then, tho, it is not merely some execs who are foreclosing the market for outside talent and depictions (although some are surely more responsible than others) but an entire free market system that they must work within whether their desire is to use it for diversity or some kind of supremacy.

The best part of this revelation is that you don’t even need to be mad about seeing that elite minority represented, in this case. They’re just people with a specific culture based on their material realities like anyone else. If you’re going to get mad, get mad at a system that only privileges diversity as a goal to maintain itself while still giddily creating new groups to obscure. And then, don’t stay mad, but get focused on a history of people and actions that resisted this system and imagined other possibilities (see the Anti-Oligarchy Constitution for a detailed US description) and then get focused on the people who are doing things now, especially locally, where they really do need an extra set of hands once a week for an hour.

Obviously, don’t ignore representation because there are artists who are making it there who are your allies even when they don’t do it perfectly. But when that spark ignites about representation issues, kindle it so you can see the whole picture on the cave wall.

#ramble #fandom problems

[fizzycherrycola]

I know this fic is kinda old, but in your story with Canada and England visiting the exhibition you mentioned that England sees him as his ward, not his son, so is that because Canada used to be France's kid or something else going on?

You're talking about Industry and Grandeur, right? Sure, I’ll give you my thoughts.

Not sure when it happened, but there’s a trend within the Western fandom to portray England and Canada as having a father/son connection, and most of the fic writers I follow (and admire) do take that approach, so I realise I’m the odd one out. The entire “Lord Father” portrayal of England is wonderfully creative, interesting, and one I enjoy reading, I just prefer not to write it myself. 

Personally I like to rely on canon when I write, though I don’t adhere to Hetalia’s comedic tone, but when it comes to the nature of established relationships, if I’m not writing a ship, then it’s simpler to stick to what’s already there. I even have trouble with AUs, and usually don’t go very far with them, certainly nothing beyond the concept stage. It makes my life a bit easier by keeping things as they are and I worry sometimes about making too many changes within my headcanons that might put someone off of my work, but that’s probably the anxiety talking.

I’ve also... struggled to see England as a fatherly figure, I suppose. It’s all to do with headcanons surrounding how these dirt creatures mentally age, how they view each other, how they see themselves, and leaves me wondering if England wasn’t just a “teenager” when he first found America, so in that circumstance, would he really see himself as a parent? 

If I found a baby, would I suddenly decide to become it’s mother? 

Sure, the nations know that they share a connection among their citizens, tied together governments, similar demographics, language, religion, etc. But also, especially for the European powers, in their past, a baby wasn’t really a good omen, right? One kingdom collapses and a new one takes its place. New identities, changed languages, a different ruling class, new laws. So... having a proper son or daughter, one that’ll inherit their lands, wealth, and people when they pass, is like a death sentence to them.

In human society, children carry on their parents’ legacy, but that’s not the case with England and Canada. If he (the nation of England) were to dissolve tomorrow, America, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and all the rest would NOT inherit anything. No land, no life insurance, there’d be no reading of his will, he wouldn’t have one. The crown wouldn’t be handed down, it’d vanish, and then some other being(s) that represent the formerly English people would spawn spontaneously out of Stonehenge or some random village in the countryside, and they’d have their own names. They’d be the ones to succeed England, by taking his former lands, laws, and people. By taking them directly.

With that awareness, any kingdom wanting their own child wouldn’t be in their right mind, they’d be inviting their own destruction. I think if they came across another of their kind, as England acquired Canada and America, they’d much prefer to call them “wards”. Or siblings, at most. Because that’d give a sense of kinship while still importantly preserving their continued existence, keeping the colonies at arm’s length, and signalling: “We are close, and I care about you dearly, but you will not bring about my doom.”

(And sometimes I think that England had such a terrible childhood that he wouldn’t dare trust himself as a parent, wouldn’t risk the label for fear of complete failure. It’d be just another shortcoming that his brothers would mock him for. Too dangerous and too uncertain.)

Anyway, this ended up being much longer than intended, but I hope that answers your question. In my fic, England isn’t calling Canada his “ward” because of any background animosity towards France, but rather because it’s the label he’s most comfortable with. It’s safe and amicable.

Now, as I’ve said before, MY HEADCANON ISN’T LAW and I truly do love father/son depictions of England and Canada, so if you see them that way, just keep doing you, because diverse interpretations are the lifeblood of every fandom. I’ll continue existing as a bit of a black sheep with my ward/guardian portrayal, but if there’s something you want to add, my askbox is open and I’d be happy to hear it.

Thanks 💜

#ask box #hws england #hws canada #hetalia headcanons #aph england #aph canada #arthur kirkland #matthew williams #my headcanons #hetalia

[ofhouseadama]

prompting you to talk at length about that thing with Garak and jewelry and vulnerability. Also thoughts on what Cardassians value, jewelry wise- obviously for humans we all get stuck on precious metal, specifically gold and silver, but I think Cardassians are also very into pearls.

Yes! I think a lot about how my grandmother bought her divorce from her first husband and survived after the divorce by squirreling away all the jewelry he bought her and all the jewelry she'd inherited and been given when they were married. It was her insurance policy; diamonds as rule, don't depreciate in value. Gold and silver fluctuate, gemstones go in and out of fashion--but diamonds? They can get you away from your shitty abusive husband and pay your rent.

I think the Cardassian diamond, so to speak, has to be something from the Hebitian civilization. Something worth taking that was mined and the mine has long run dry. Some kind of gemstone that is now only available for sale when someone dies or when a family is in financial or political ruin, but otherwise gets passed down generation to generation to generation, appreciating in value. Possibly obsidian, as old as Cardassia itself. The name the Obsidian Order had to come from somewhere--perhaps in the last days of the Hebitians, as the Cardassians destroyed their civilization and the planet, they mined out all the obsidian glass from the planet. Made it into weapons to serve the Obsidian Order, and jewelry to for the ruling families the Obsidian Order nominally served.

From there are the other natural resources of Cardassia Prime that have long run dry--pearls are a great example, I think. The fisheries on Prime have probably long been run into ecological disaster. So not quite ancient Hebitian, but old. And soft and fragile, something that requires intent and knowledge to maintain. I also have a pet headcanon that it was en vogue after Cardassia achieved spaceflight and started conquering their neighbors and colonizing worlds that metal from flagships was eventually reclaimed by ruling families and military leaders to turn into settings for rings and crowns and necklaces and earrings.

We've talked before about how Garak desperately wants to resemble something of a sugar daddy to Julian, once he arrives on Cardassia. In part because Tain's fortune, hidden in bank accounts among at least five different foreign banks that has only grown during the Dominion War, makes him sick and he spends a lot of time driving his millions in latinum into hospitals and orphanages and funding the government and now into Julian--but also because his nightmare is that Julian would ever feel trapped with him. That there would ever possibly be the appearance of Julian having been trapped by him in the first place. The implication that Julian cannot freely come and go from the household of the Son of Tain. Especially if Julian is in exile from the Federation, let alone once marriage is broached and Julian is forced to give up the Federation in order to remain on Cardassia.

And so the solution is material wealth--not unlike a dowry being settled on a woman for her financial security and the security of her heirs. Garak hands over half a million strips of latinum to be invested at a 10% rate in Julian's name only, the 10% annuity to be used by Julian at Julian's discretion. He can re-invest it or spend it or donate it or light it on fire. But he has it.

As for the very real rumors about them--jewelry. Some passed down through the nebulous ancestry of the House of Tain, some of that very old obsidian glass jewelry and pearls set in 500 year old, battle-tested steel. His wedding ring is worth the average Cardassian's yearly salary, before the bombardment. Julian can leave. Garak makes it apparent to everyone that Julian can always leave.

But he chooses not to.

#ask #bijoumikhawal #otp: there's hope for you yet #emily watches ds9

[astrosolutions]

RAHU IN 8TH HOUSE – PLACEMENT RESULT OF RAHU

Rahu in 8th House, Rahu placed in the 8th house in astrology can indicate a complex and intense energy surrounding the individual’s approach to matters related to transformation, secrets, and the occult. This placement may suggest a deep fascination with these topics, as well as a potential for unexpected changes and upheavals in their life.

ABOUT RAHU IN ASTROLOGY

Rahu is one of the nine planets in Vedic astrology and is often referred to as the North Node of the Moon. In Hindu mythology, Rahu is considered a shadow planet, as it does not have a physical existence. Instead, it is believed to be the head of a demon that swallows the sun and causes eclipses.

In astrology, Rahu is known for its ability to cause confusion, illusions, and materialistic desires. It is associated with the zodiac sign of Aquarius and is said to have a strong influence on the houses it occupies in a person’s birth chart.

When Rahu is positioned in a positive way, it can bring great success and prosperity in a person’s life. It can also provide them with a strong sense of determination and motivation to achieve their goals. However, when Rahu is negatively positioned, it can cause chaos and destruction, leading to financial losses, health issues, and relationship problems.

Overall, Rahu is a powerful planet that can greatly impact a person’s life. It is important to understand its influence in your birth chart and take the necessary steps to balance its energy, such as performing specific rituals, wearing specific gemstones, and practicing meditation and mindfulness.

ASTROLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF 8TH HOUSE

In astrology, the 8th house is considered a crucial part of a person’s birth chart as it deals with deep transformation, regeneration, and mystery. It is also known as the house of death, inheritance, and shared resources. Let’s explore the astrological significance of the 8th house in more detail.

The 8th house represents the psychological and emotional aspects of a person’s life. It rules over the areas of our lives that are hidden, secretive, and taboo. It deals with our fears, obsessions, and desires that are often hidden from others. This house also governs the concept of death, rebirth, and transformation, both in a literal and metaphorical sense.

The 8th house also has a strong connection with shared resources, wealth, and inheritance. It deals with other people’s money, such as taxes, insurance, and investments. It also represents the financial resources that we receive from our partners or family members. The 8th house also governs the concept of intimacy, sexuality, and deep emotional connections with others.

In terms of planetary influence, the 8th house is ruled by the planet Pluto, which is associated with transformation, power, and regeneration. The placement of Pluto in the 8th house can indicate intense emotional experiences, as well as a desire for power and control. Other planets, such as Mars and Saturn, can also have a significant impact on the 8th house, especially when it comes to issues related to death and inheritance.

The 8th house is also associated with the sign of Scorpio, which is known for its intensity, passion, and desire for transformation. Scorpio is ruled by Pluto, which further emphasizes the transformative nature of this house. Those with a strong Scorpio or Pluto influence in their chart may experience profound changes and transformations throughout their lives.

In conclusion, the 8th house is a vital part of a person’s birth chart, as it deals with deep transformation, shared resources, and the psychological and emotional aspects of our lives. While it can represent fears and obsessions, it also offers the potential for powerful change and growth. Understanding the astrological significance of the 8th house can provide valuable insights into our own lives, as well as the lives of those around us.

Read More What is Rahu? All About Rahu planet

PLACEMENT RESULT OF RAHU IN 8TH HOUSE

#rahu #astrology #rahu in astrology #rahu in 8th house #planet rahu #rahu transits