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Mafia42: news, discussions, fan creations, fun stuff

2018.08.14 04:49 Mafia42: news, discussions, fan creations, fun stuff

Welcome to Mafia42 subreddit! This is a place to share thoughts, opinions, suggestions, and fanworks with other players of Mafia42, a mobile secret identity game made by Team42. https://mafia42.page.link/Mafia42Global
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2020.01.23 22:48 Marx0r Salutations to Pacific Coasts

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2020.02.12 16:39 Marx0r r/HogwartsMafia: Salutations to Mafia

Play mafia bouts digitally
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2024.05.21 16:03 rpkat [F4A/M] Mafia Romance

Hi there! I’m 26, central US timezone, and female!
SAFE FOR WORK ONLY.
Message me with your age, timezone (US Timezones Preferred), what plot idea you’re interested in, and a sample of your writing!
Partner requirements: must be 22-38 - Must play male (IRL gender doesn’t matter)- write in third person - at least two paragraphs - decent grammar and punctuation- must be able to post once a day to every other day. Communication is key, please let me know if you are going to be busy for longer than a day or two or if you are no longer interested. No asterisks for actions. Dialogue should be in quotations. NO AI ART OR WRITING.
I’ve been craving a good enemies to lovers roleplay for awhile now and what’s a better enemies to lovers roleplay than something revolving around the mafia?
Plot idea #1: Your character has recently taken over the family business. My character is a college student on a study abroad trip that happens to see something they weren’t supposed to. Y/C’s men that were handling the deal take her back to the main ‘headquarters’ and keep her locked up, leaving Y/C to deal with her.
Plot idea #2: Your character is in a small gang that is tasked with kidnapping the naive daughter of a mob boss that stole money from another. Basic idea, can be fleshed out more together.
Plot idea #3: your character would be a police officer that’s gone undercover with some small local gangs to bust a couple of drug dealers and whatnot. Having done such a great job there, he is offered a bigger mission and if he takes it, when he returns to his actual station, he will get a bigger raise, new car, K-9 unit, some sort of special thing that he’s been working towards. This bigger mission would be infiltrating a bigger mafia family that seems to be running all these smaller ones. Thanks to some forged documents, lies spread around, and some of the actual dirty work he has done over the last six months, the head of the family invites him to a nightclub to chat. The chat leads to the offering of a position within the family, a personal bodyguard for the mob bosses daughter after the situation that happened with her last one. It’s his first break through and they’re welcoming him with open arms. Does he accept?
submitted by rpkat to roleplaying [link] [comments]


2024.05.21 15:58 rpkat [F4A/M] Mafia Romance

Hi there! I’m 26, central US timezone, and female!
SAFE FOR WORK ONLY.
Message me with your age, timezone (US Timezones Preferred), what plot idea you’re interested in, and a sample of your writing!
Partner requirements: must be 22-38 - Must play male (IRL gender doesn’t matter)- write in third person - at least two paragraphs - decent grammar and punctuation- must be able to post once a day to every other day. Communication is key, please let me know if you are going to be busy for longer than a day or two or if you are no longer interested. No asterisks for actions. Dialogue should be in quotations. NO AI ART OR WRITING.
I’ve been craving a good enemies to lovers roleplay for awhile now and what’s a better enemies to lovers roleplay than something revolving around the mafia?
Plot idea #1: Your character has recently taken over the family business. My character is a college student on a study abroad trip that happens to see something they weren’t supposed to. Y/C’s men that were handling the deal take her back to the main ‘headquarters’ and keep her locked up, leaving Y/C to deal with her.
Plot idea #2: Your character is in a small gang that is tasked with kidnapping the naive daughter of a mob boss that stole money from another. Basic idea, can be fleshed out more together.
Plot idea #3: your character would be a police officer that’s gone undercover with some small local gangs to bust a couple of drug dealers and whatnot. Having done such a great job there, he is offered a bigger mission and if he takes it, when he returns to his actual station, he will get a bigger raise, new car, K-9 unit, some sort of special thing that he’s been working towards. This bigger mission would be infiltrating a bigger mafia family that seems to be running all these smaller ones. Thanks to some forged documents, lies spread around, and some of the actual dirty work he has done over the last six months, the head of the family invites him to a nightclub to chat. The chat leads to the offering of a position within the family, a personal bodyguard for the mob bosses daughter after the situation that happened with her last one. It’s his first break through and they’re welcoming him with open arms. Does he accept?
submitted by rpkat to RoleplayPartnerSearch [link] [comments]


2024.05.21 11:25 The_Way358 Essential Teachings: Understanding the Atonement, the Content of Paul's Gospel Message, and Justification

"Why Did Jesus Die on the Cross?"

The main reason Jesus died on the cross was to defeat Satan and set us free from his oppressive rule. Everything else that Jesus accomplished was to be understood as an aspect and consequence of this victory (e.g., Recapitulation, Moral Influence, etc.).
This understanding of why Jesus had to die is called the Christus Victor (Latin for “Christ is Victorious”) view of the atonement. But, what exactly was Christ victorious from, and why? To find out the answers to these questions, we have to turn to the Old Testament, as that's what the apostles would often allude to in order to properly teach their audience the message they were trying to convey (Rom. 15:4).
The OT is full of conflict between the Father (YHVH) and false gods, between YHVH and cosmic forces of chaos. The Psalms speak of this conflict between YHVH and water monsters of the deeps (an ancient image for chaos) (Psa. 29:3-4; 74:10-14; 77:16, 19; 89:9-10; 104:2-9, etc).
The liberation of Israel from Egypt wasn’t just a conflict between Pharaoh and Moses. It was really between YHVH and the false gods of Egypt.
Regardless of whether you think the aforementioned descriptions are literal or metaphorical, the reality that the Old Testament describes is that humanity lived in a “cosmic war zone.”
The Christus Victor motif is about Christ reigning victorious over wicked principalities and Satan's kingdom, and is strongly emphasized throughout the New Testament. Scripture declares that Jesus came to drive out "the prince of this world” (John 12:31), to “destroy the works of the devil” (1 John 3:8), to “destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil” (Heb. 2:14) and to “put all enemies under his feet” (1 Cor 15:25). Jesus came to overpower the “strong man” (Satan) who held the world in bondage and worked with his Church to plunder his "palace" (Luke 11:21-22). He came to end the reign of the cosmic “thief” who seized the world to “steal, and to kill, and to destroy” the life YHVH intended for us (John 10:10). Jesus came and died on the cross to disarm “the principalities and powers” and make a “shew of them openly [i.e., public spectacle]” by “triumphing over them in [the cross]” (Col. 2:15).
Beyond these explicit statements, there are many other passages that express the Christus Victor motif as well. For example, the first prophecy in the Bible foretells that a descendent of Eve (Jesus) would crush the head of the serpent (Gen. 3:15). The first Christian sermon ever preached proclaimed that Jesus in principle conquered all YHVH's enemies (Acts 2:32-36). And the single most frequently quoted Old Testament passage by New Testament authors is Psalm 110:1 which predicts that Christ would conquer all YHVH’s opponents. (Psalm 110 is quoted or alluded to in Matthew 22:41-45; 26:64, Mark 12:35-37; 14:62, Luke 20:41-44; 22:69, Acts 5:31; 7:55-56, Romans 8:34, 1st Corinthians 15:22-25, Ephesians 1:20, Hebrews 1:3; 1:13; 5:6, 10; 6:20; 7:11, 15, 17, 21; 8:1; 10:12-13, 1st Peter 3:22, and Revelation 3:21.) According to New Testament scholar Oscar Cullman, the frequency with which New Testament authors cite this Psalm is the greatest proof that Christ’s “victory over the angel powers stands at the very center of early Christian thought.”
Because of man's rebellion, the Messiah's coming involved a rescue mission that included a strategy for vanquishing the powers of darkness.
Since YHVH is a God of love who gives genuine “say-so” to both angels and humans, YHVH rarely accomplishes His providential plans through coercion. YHVH relies on His infinite wisdom to achieve His goals. Nowhere is YHVH's wisdom put more on display than in the manner in which He outsmarted Satan and the powers of evil, using their own evil to bring about their defeat.
Most readers probably know the famous story from ancient Greece about the Trojan Horse. To recap the story, Troy and Greece had been locked in a ten-year-long vicious war when, according to Homer and Virgil, the Greeks came up with a brilliant idea. They built an enormous wooden horse, hid soldiers inside and offered it to the Trojans as a gift, claiming they were conceding defeat and going home. The delighted Trojans accepted the gift and proceeded to celebrate by drinking themselves into a drunken stupor. When night came and the Trojan warriors were too wasted to fight, the Greeks exited the horse, unlocked the city gates to quietly let all their compatriots in, and easily conquered the city, thus winning the war.
Historians debate whether any of this actually happened. But either way, as military strategies go, it’s brilliant.
Now, there are five clues in the New Testament that suggest YHVH was using something like this Trojan Horse strategy against the powers when he sent Jesus into the world:
1) The Bible tells us that YHVH's victory over the powers of darkness was achieved by the employment of YHVH’s wisdom, and was centered on that wisdom having become reality in Jesus Christ (Rom. 16:25, 1 Cor. 2:7, Eph. 3:9-10, Col. 1:26). It also tells us that, for some reason, this Christ-centered wisdom was kept “secret and hidden” throughout the ages. It’s clear from this that YHVH's strategy was to outsmart and surprise the powers by sending Jesus.
2) While humans don’t generally know Jesus’ true identity during his ministry, demons do. They recognize Jesus as the Son of God, the Messiah, but, interestingly enough, they have no idea what he’s doing (Mark 1:24; 3:11; 5:7, Luke 8:21). Again, the wisdom of YHVH in sending Jesus was hidden from them.
3) We’re told that, while humans certainly share in the responsibility for the crucifixion, Satan and the powers were working behind the scenes to bring it about (John 13:27 cf. 1 Cor. 2:6-8). These forces of evil helped orchestrate the crucifixion.
4) We’re taught that if the “princes of this world [age]” had understood the secret wisdom of YHVH, “they would not have crucified the Lord of glory” (1 Cor 2:8 cf. vss 6-7). Apparently, Satan and the powers regretted orchestrating Christ’s crucifixion once they learned of the wisdom of YHVH that was behind it.
5) Finally, we can begin to understand why the powers came to regret crucifying “the Lord of glory” when we read that it was by means of the crucifixion that the “handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us [i.e., the charge of our legal indebtedness]” was “[taken] out of the way [i.e., canceled]” as the powers were disarmed. In this way Christ “triumph[ed] over” the powers by "his cross” and even “made a shew of them openly” (Col. 2:14-15). Through Christ’s death and resurrection YHVH's enemies were vanquished and placed under his Messiah's feet, and ultimately His own in the end (1 Cor. 15:23-28).
Putting these five clues together, we can discern YHVH's Trojan Horse strategy in sending Jesus.
The powers couldn’t discern why Jesus came because YHVH's wisdom was hidden from them. YHVH's wisdom was motivated by unfathomable love, and since Satan and the other powers were evil, they lacked the capacity to understand it. Their evil hearts prevented them from suspecting what YHVH was up to.
What the powers did understand was that Jesus was mortal. This meant he was killable. Lacking the capacity to understand that this was the means by which YHVH would ultimately bring about the defeat of death (and thus, pave the road for the resurrection itself), they never suspected that making Jesus vulnerable to their evil might actually be part of YHVH's infinitely wise plan.
And so they took the bait (or "ransom"; Matt. 20:28, Mark 10:45, 1 Tim. 2:5-6). Utilizing Judas and other willing human agents, the powers played right into YHVH’s secret plan and orchestrated the crucifixion of the Messiah (Acts 2:22-23; 4:28). YHVH thus brilliantly used the self-inflicted incapacity of evil to understand love against itself. And, like light dispelling darkness, the unfathomably beautiful act of YHVH's love in sending the willing Messiah as a "ransom" to these blood-thirsty powers defeated them. The whole creation was in principle freed and reconciled to YHVH, while everything written against us humans was nailed to the cross, thus robbing the powers of the only legal claim they had on us. They were “spoiled [i.e., disempowered]” (Col. 2:14-15).
As happened to the Trojans in accepting the gift from the Greeks, in seizing on Christ’s vulnerability and orchestrating his crucifixion, the powers unwittingly cooperated with YHVH to unleash the one power in the world that dispels all evil and sets captives free. It’s the power of self-sacrificial love.

Why Penal Substitution Is Unbiblical

For the sake of keeping this already lengthy post as short as possible I'm not going to spend too much time on why exactly PSA (Penal Substitutionary Atonement) is inconsistent with Scripture, but I'll go ahead and point out the main reasons why I believe this is so, and let the reader look further into this subject by themselves, being that there are many resources out there which have devoted much more time than I ever could here in supporting this premise.
"Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:"-1 Corinthians 5:7
The Passover is one of the two most prominent images in the New Testament given as a comparison to Christ's atonement and what it accomplished, (the other most common image being the Day of Atonement sacrifice).
In the Passover, the blood of the lamb on the door posts of the Hebrews in the book of Exodus was meant to mark out those who were YHVH's, not be a symbol of PSA, as the lamb itself was not being punished by God in place of the Hebrews, but rather the kingdom of Egypt (and thus, allegorically speaking, the kingdom of darkness which opposed YHVH) was what was being judged and punished, because those who were not "covered" by the blood of the lamb could be easily identified as not part of God's kingdom/covenant and liberated people.
Looking at the Day of Atonement sacrifice (which, again, Christ's death is repeatedly compared to throughout the New Testament), this ritual required a ram, a bull, and two goats (Lev. 16:3-5). The ram was for a burnt offering intended to please God (Lev. 16:3-4). The bull served as a sin offering for Aaron, the high priest, and his family. In this case, the sin offering restored the priest to ritual purity, allowing him to occupy sacred space and be near YHVH’s presence. Two goats taken from "the congregation” were needed for the single sin offering for the people (Lev. 16:5). So why two goats?
The high priest would cast lots over the two goats, with one chosen as a sacrifice “for the Lord” (Lev. 16:8). The blood of that goat would purify the people. The second goat was not sacrificed or designated “for the Lord.” On the contrary, this goat—the one that symbolically carried the sins away from the camp of Israel into the wilderness—was “for Azazel” (Lev. 16:8-10).
What—or who—is Azazel?
The Hebrew term azazel (עזאזל) occurs four times in Leviticus 16 but nowhere else in most people's canon of the Bible, (and I say "most people's canon," because some people do include 1 Enoch in their canon of Scripture, which of course goes into great detail about this "Azazel" figure). Many translations prefer to translate the term as a phrase, “the goat that goes away,” which is the same idea conveyed in the King James Version’s “scapegoat.” Other translations treat the word as a name: Azazel. The “scapegoat” option is possible, but since the phrase “for Azazel” parallels the phrase “for YHVH” (“for the Lord”), the wording suggests that two divine figures are being contrasted by the two goats.
A strong case can be made for translating the term as the name Azazel. Ancient Jewish texts show that Azazel was understood as a demonic figure associated with the wilderness. The Mishnah (ca. AD 200; Yoma 6:6) records that the goat for Azazel was led to a cliff and pushed over, ensuring it would not return with its death. This association of the wilderness with evil is also evident in the New Testament, as this was where Jesus met the devil (Matt. 4:1). Also, in Leviticus 17:1-7 we learn that some Israelites had been accustomed to sacrificing offerings to "devils" (alternatively translated as “goat demons”). The Day of Atonement replaced this illegitimate practice.
The second goat was not sent into the wilderness as a sacrifice to a foreign god or demon. The act of sending the live goat out into the wilderness, which was unholy ground, was to send the sins of the people where they belonged—to the demonic domain. With one goat sacrificed to bring purification and access to YHVH and one goat sent to carry the people’s sins to the demonic domain, this annual ritual reinforced the identity of the true God and His mercy and holiness.
When Jesus died on the cross for all of humanity’s sins, he was crucified outside the city, paralleling the sins of the people being cast to the wilderness via the goat to Azazel. Jesus died once for all sinners, negating the need for this ritual.
As previously stated, the goat which had all the sin put on it was sent alive off to the wilderness, while the blood of the goat which was blameless was used to purify the temple and the people. Penal substitution would necessitate the killing of the goat which had the sin put on it.
Mind you, this is the only sacrificial ritual of any kind in the Torah in which sins are placed on an animal. The only time it happens is this, and that animal is not sacrificed. Most PSA proponents unwittingly point to this ritual as evidence of their view, despite it actually serving as evidence to the contrary, because most people don't read their Old Testament and don't familiarize themselves with the "boring parts" like Leviticus (when it's actually rather important to do so, since that book explains how exactly animal offerings were to be carried out and why they were done in the first place).
In the New Testament, Christ's blood was not only meant to mark out those who were his, but also expel the presence of sin and ritual uncleanness so as to make the presence of YHVH manifest in the believer's life. Notice how God's wrath isn't poured out on Christ in our stead on this view, but rather His wrath was poured out on those who weren't covered, and the presence of sin and evil were merely removed by that which is pure and blameless (Christ's blood) for the believer.
All this is the difference between expiation and propitiation.

The Content of Paul's Gospel Message

When the New Testament writers talked about “the gospel,” they referred not to the Protestant doctrine of justification sola fide–the proposition that if we will stop trying to win God’s favor and only just believe that God has exchanged our sin for Christ’s perfect righteousness, then in God’s eyes we will have the perfect righteousness required both for salvation and for assuaging our guilty consciences–but rather they referred to the simple but explosive proposition Kyrios Christos, “Christ is Lord.” That is to say, the gospel was, properly speaking, the royal announcement that Jesus of Nazareth was the God of Israel’s promised Messiah, the King of kings and Lord of lords.
The New Testament writers were not writing in a cultural or linguistic vacuum and their language of euangelion (good news) and euangelizomai would have been understood by their audience in fairly specific ways. Namely, in the Greco-Roman world for which the New Testament authors wrote, euangelion/euangelizomai language typically had to do with either A) the announcement of the accession of a ruler, or B) the announcement of a victory in battle, and would probably have been understood along those lines.
Let’s take the announcements of a new ruler first. The classic example of such a language is the Priene Calendar Inscription, dating to circa 9 BC, which celebrates the rule (and birthday) of Caesar Augustus as follows:
"It was seeming to the Greeks in Asia, in the opinion of the high priest Apollonius of Menophilus Azanitus: Since Providence, which has ordered all things of our life and is very much interested in our life, has ordered things in sending Augustus, whom she filled with virtue for the benefit of men, sending him as a savior [soter] both for us and for those after us, him who would end war and order all things, and since Caesar by his appearance [epiphanein] surpassed the hopes of all those who received the good tidings [euangelia], not only those who were benefactors before him, but even the hope among those who will be left afterward, and the birthday of the god [he genethlios tou theou] was for the world the beginning of the good tidings [euangelion] through him; and Asia resolved it in Smyrna."
The association of the term euangelion with the announcement of Augustus’ rule is clear enough and is typical of how this language is used elsewhere. To give another example, Josephus records that at the news of the accession of the new emperor Vespasian (69 AD) “every city kept festival for the good news (euangelia) and offered sacrifices on his behalf.” (The Jewish War, IV.618). Finally, a papyrus dating to ca. 498 AD begins:
"Since I have become aware of the good news (euangeliou) about the proclamation as Caesar (of Gaius Julius Verus Maximus Augustus)…"
This usage occurs also in the Septuagint, the Greek translations of the Jewish Scriptures. For instance LXX Isaiah 52:7 reads, “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news (euangelizomenou), who publishes peace, who brings good news (euangelizomenos) of salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns.'" Similarly, LXX Isaiah 40:9-10 reads:
"…Go up on a high mountain, you who bring good tidings (ho euangelizomenos) to Sion; lift up your voice with strength, you who bring good tidings (ho euangelizomenos); lift it up, do not fear; say to the cities of Ioudas, “See your God!” Behold, the Lord comes with strength, and his arm with authority (kyrieias)…."-NETS, Esaias 40:9-10
This consistent close connection between euangelion/euangelizomai language and announcements of rule strongly suggests that many of the initial hearers/readers of the early Christians’ evangelical language would likely have understood that language as the announcement of a new ruler (see, e.g., Acts 17:7), and, unless there is strong NT evidence to the contrary, we should presume that the NT writers probably intended their language to be so understood.
However, the other main way in which euangelion/euangelizomai language was used in the Greco-Roman world was with reference to battle reports, announcements of victory in war. A classic example of this sort of usage can be found in LXX 2 Samuel 18:19ff, where David receives word that his traitorous son, Absalom, has been defeated in battle. Euangelion/euangelizomai is used throughout the passage for the communications from the front.
As already shown throughout this post, the NT speaks of Jesus’s death and resurrection as a great victory over the powers that existed at that time and, most importantly, over death itself. Jesus’ conquest of the principalities and powers was the establishment of his rule and comprehensive authority over heaven and earth, that is, of his Lordship over all things (again, at that time).
This was the content of Paul's gospel message...

Justification, and the "New" Perspective on Paul

The following quotation is from The Gospel Coalition, and I believe it to be a decently accurate summary of the NPP (New Perspective on Paul), despite it being from a source which is in opposition to it:
The New Perspective on Paul, a major scholarly shift that began in the 1980s, argues that the Jewish context of the New Testament has been wrongly understood and that this misunderstand[ing] has led to errors in the traditional-Protestant understanding of justification. According to the New Perspective, the Jewish systems of salvation were not based on works-righteousness but rather on covenantal nomism, the belief that one enters the people of God by grace and stays in through obedience to the covenant. This means that Paul could not have been referring to works-righteousness by his phrase “works of the law”; instead, he was referring to Jewish boundary markers that made clear who was or was not within the people of God. For the New Perspective, this is the issue that Paul opposes in the NT. Thus, justification takes on two aspects for the New Perspective rather than one; initial justification is by faith (grace) and recognizes covenant status (ecclesiology), while final justification is partially by works, albeit works produced by the Spirit.
I believe what's called the "new perspective" is actually rather old, and that the Reformers' view of Paul is what is truly new, being that the Lutheran understanding of Paul is simply not Biblical.
The Reformation perspective understands Paul to be arguing against a legalistic Jewish culture that seeks to earn their salvation through works. However, supporters of the NPP argue that Paul has been misread. We contend he was actually combating Jews who were boasting because they were God's people, the "elect" or the "chosen ones." Their "works," so to speak, were done to show they were God's covenant people and not to earn their salvation.
The key questions involve Paul’s view(s) of the law and the meaning of the controversy in which Paul was engaged. Paul strongly argued that we are “justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law” (Gal. 2:16b). Since the time of Martin Luther, this has been understood as an indictment of legalistic efforts to merit favor before God. Judaism was cast in the role of the medieval "church," and so Paul’s protests became very Lutheran, with traditional-Protestant theology reinforced in all its particulars (along with its limitations) as a result. In hermeneutical terms, then, the historical context of Paul’s debate will answer the questions we have about what exactly the apostle meant by the phrase "works of the law," along with other phrases often used as support by the Reformers for their doctrine of Sola Fide (justification by faith alone), like when Paul mentions "the righteousness of God."
Obviously an in-depth analysis of the Pauline corpus and its place in the context of first-century Judaism would take us far beyond the scope of this brief post. We can, however, quickly survey the topography of Paul’s thought in context, particularly as it has emerged through the efforts of recent scholarship, and note some salient points which may be used as the basis of a refurbished soteriology.
[Note: The more popular scholars associated with the NPP are E.P. Sanders, James Dunn, and N.T. Wright. Dunn was the first to coin the term "The New Perspective" in a 1983 Manson Memorial Lecture, The New Perspective on Paul and the Law.]
Varying authors since the early 1900's have brought up the charge that Paul was misread by those in the tradition of Martin Luther and other Protestant Reformers. Yet, it wasn't until E.P. Sanders' 1977 book, Paul and Palestinian Judaism, that scholars began to pay much attention to the issue. In his book, Sanders argues that the Judaism of Paul's day has been wrongly criticized as a religion of "works-salvation" by those in the Protestant tradition.
A fundamental premise in the NPP is that Judaism was actually a religion of grace. Sander's puts it clearly:
"On the point at which many have found the decisive contrast between Paul and Judaism - grace and works - Paul is in agreement with Palestinian Judaism... Salvation is by grace but judgment is according to works'...God saves by grace, but... within the framework established by grace he rewards good deeds and punishes transgression." (Paul and Palestinian Judaism, p. 543)
N.T. Wright adds that, "we have misjudged early Judaism, especially Pharisaism, if we have thought of it as an early version of Pelagianism," (Wright, What Saint Paul Really Said, p. 32).
Sanders has coined a now well-known phrase to describe the character of first-century Palestinian Judaism: “covenantal nomism.” The meaning of “covenantal nomism” is that human obedience is not construed as the means of entering into God’s covenant. That cannot be earned; inclusion within the covenant body is by the grace of God. Rather, obedience is the means of maintaining one’s status within the covenant. And with its emphasis on divine grace and forgiveness, Judaism was never a religion of legalism.
If covenantal nomism was operating as the primary category under which Jews understood the Law, then when Jews spoke of obeying commandments, or when they required strict obedience of themselves and fellow Jews, it was because they were "keeping the covenant," rather than out of legalism.
More recently, N.T. Wright has made a significant contribution in his little book, What Saint Paul Really Said. Wright’s focus is the gospel and the doctrine of justification. With incisive clarity he demonstrates that the core of Paul’s gospel was not justification by faith, but the death and resurrection of Christ and his exaltation as Lord. The proclamation of the gospel was the proclamation of Jesus as Lord, the Messiah who fulfilled Israel’s expectations. Romans 1:3-4, not 1:16-17, is the gospel, contrary to traditional thinking. Justification is not the center of Paul’s thought, but an outworking of it:
"[T]he doctrine of justification by faith is not what Paul means by ‘the gospel’. It is implied by the gospel; when the gospel is proclaimed, people come to faith and so are regarded by God as members of his people. But ‘the gospel’ is not an account of how people get saved. It is, as we saw in an earlier chapter, the proclamation of the lordship of Jesus Christ….Let us be quite clear. ‘The gospel’ is the announcement of Jesus’ lordship, which works with power to bring people into the family of Abraham, now redefined around Jesus Christ and characterized solely by faith in him. ‘Justification’ is the doctrine which insists that all those who have this faith belong as full members of this family, on this basis and no other." (pp. 132, 133)
Wright brings us to this point by showing what “justification” would have meant in Paul’s Jewish context, bound up as it was in law-court terminology, eschatology, and God’s faithfulness to God’s covenant.
Specifically, Wright explodes the myth that the pre-Christian Saul was a pious, proto-Pelagian moralist seeking to earn his individual passage into heaven. Wright capitalizes on Paul’s autobiographical confessions to paint rather a picture of a zealous Jewish nationalist whose driving concern was to cleanse Israel of Gentiles as well as Jews who had lax attitudes toward the Torah. Running the risk of anachronism, Wright points to a contemporary version of the pre-Christian Saul: Yigal Amir, the zealous Torah-loyal Jew who assassinated Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin for exchanging Israel’s land for peace. Wright writes:
"Jews like Saul of Tarsus were not interested in an abstract, ahistorical system of salvation... They were interested in the salvation which, they believed, the one true God had promised to his people Israel." (pp. 32, 33)
Wright maintains that as a Christian, Paul continued to challenge paganism by taking the moral high ground of the creational monotheist. The doctrine of justification was not what Paul preached to the Gentiles as the main thrust of his gospel message; it was rather “the thing his converts most needed to know in order to be assured that they really were part of God’s people” after they had responded to the gospel message.
Even while taking the gospel to the Gentiles, however, Paul continued to criticize Judaism “from within” even as he had as a zealous Pharisee. But whereas his mission before was to root out those with lax attitudes toward the Torah, now his mission was to demonstrate that God’s covenant faithfulness (righteousness) has already been revealed in Jesus Christ.
At this point Wright carefully documents Paul’s use of the controversial phrase “God’s righteousness” and draws out the implications of his meaning against the background of a Jewish concept of justification. The righteousness of God and the righteousness of the party who is “justified” cannot be confused because the term bears different connotations for the judge than for the plaintiff or defendant. The judge is “righteous” if his or her judgment is fair and impartial; the plaintiff or defendant is “righteous” if the judge rules in his or her favor. Hence:
"If we use the language of the law court, it makes no sense whatsoever to say that the judge imputes, imparts, bequeaths, conveys or otherwise transfers his righteousness to either the plaintiff or the defendant. Righteousness is not an object, a substance or a gas which can be passed across the courtroom. For the judge to be righteous does not mean that the court has found in his favor. For the plaintiff or defendant to be righteous does not mean that he or she has tried the case properly or impartially. To imagine the defendant somehow receiving the judge’s righteousness is simply a category mistake. That is not how the language works." (p. 98)
However, Wright makes the important observation that even with the forensic metaphor, Paul’s theology is not so much about the courtroom as it is about God’s love.
Righteousness is not an impersonal, abstract standard, a measuring-stick or a balancing scale. That was, and still is, a Greek view. Righteousness, Biblically speaking, grows out of covenant relationship. We forgive because we have been forgiven (Matt. 18:21-35); “we love" because God “first loved us” (1 John 4:19). Love is the fulfillment of the law (Rom. 13:8, 10, Gal 5:14, Jam. 2:8). Paul even looked forward to a day when “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad” (2 Cor. 5:10), and he acknowledged that his clear conscience did not necessarily ensure this verdict (1 Cor. 4:4), but he was confident nevertheless. Paul did in fact testify of his clear conscience: “For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation [i.e., behavior] in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward” (2 Cor. 1:12). He was aware that he had not yet “attained” (Phil. 3:12-14), that he still struggled with the flesh, yet he was confident of the value of his performance (1 Cor. 9:27). These are hardly the convictions of someone who intends to rest entirely on the merits of an alien righteousness imputed to his or her account.
Wright went on to flesh out the doctrine of justification in Galatians, Philippians, and Romans. The “works of the law” are not proto-Pelagian efforts to earn salvation, but rather “sabbath [keeping], food-laws, circumcision” (p. 132). Considering the controversy in Galatia, Wright writes:
"Despite a long tradition to the contrary, the problem Paul addresses in Galatians is not the question of how precisely someone becomes a Christian, or attains to a relationship with God….The problem he addresses is: should his ex-pagan converts be circumcised or not? Now this question is by no means obviously to do with the questions faced by Augustine and Pelagius, or by Luther and Erasmus. On anyone’s reading, but especially within its first-century context, it has to do quite obviously with the question of how you define the people of God: are they to be defined by the badges of Jewish race, or in some other way? Circumcision is not a ‘moral’ issue; it does not have to do with moral effort, or earning salvation by good deeds. Nor can we simply treat it as a religious ritual, then designate all religious ritual as crypto-Pelagian good works, and so smuggle Pelagius into Galatia as the arch-opponent after all. First-century thought, both Jewish and Christian, simply doesn’t work like that…. [T]he polemic against the Torah in Galatians simply will not work if we ‘translate’ it into polemic either against straightforward self-help moralism or against the more subtle snare of ‘legalism’, as some have suggested. The passages about the law only work — and by ‘work’ I mean they will only make full sense in their contexts, which is what counts in the last analysis — when we take them as references to the Jewish law, the Torah, seen as the national charter of the Jewish race." (pp. 120-122)
The debate about justification, then, “wasn’t so much about soteriology as about ecclesiology; not so much about salvation as about the church.” (p. 119)
To summarize the theology of Paul in his epistles, the apostle mainly spent time arguing to those whom he were sending letters that salvation in Christ was available to all men without distinction. Jews and Gentiles alike may accept the free gift; it was not limited to any one group. Paul was vehement about this, especially in his letter to the Romans. As such, I will finish this post off by summarizing the letter itself, so as to provide Biblical support for the premises of the NPP and for what the scholars I referenced have thus far argued.
After his introduction in the epistle to an already believing and mostly Gentile audience (who would've already been familiar with the gospel proclaimed in verses 3-4), Paul makes a thematic statement in 1:16: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.” This statement is just one of many key statements littered throughout the book of Romans that give us proper understanding of the point Paul wished to make to the interlocutors of his day, namely, salvation is available to all, whether Jew or Gentile.
In 1:16 Paul sets out a basic theme of his message in the letter to the Romans. All who believed, whether they be Jew or Gentile, were saved by the power of the gospel. The universal nature of salvation was explicitly stated. The gospel saved all without distinction, whether Jew or Greek; salvation was through the gospel of Jesus Christ. Immediately after this thematic declaration, Paul undertakes to show the universal nature of sin and guilt. In 1:18-32 Paul shows how the Gentile is guilty before God. Despite evidence of God and his attributes, which is readily available to all, they have failed to honor YHVH as God and have exchanged His glory for idolatrous worship and self-promotion. As a consequence, God handed them over in judgment (1:18-32). Paul moves to denunciation of those who would judge others while themselves being guilty of the very same offenses (2:1-5) and argues that all will be judged according to their deeds (2:6). This judgment applies to all, namely, Jew and Greek (2:9-10). This section serves as somewhat of a transition in Paul’s argument. He has highlighted the guilt of the Gentiles (1:18ff) and will shortly outline the guilt of the Jew (2:17-24). The universal statement of 2:1-11 sets the stage for Paul’s rebuke of Jewish presumption. It was not possession of the Law which delivered; it was faithful obedience. It is better to have no Law and yet to obey the essence of the Law (2:12-16) than to have the Law and not obey (2:17-3:4). Paul then defends the justice of God’s judgment (3:5-8), which leads to the conclusion that all (Jew and Gentile) are guilty before God (3:9).
Paul argues that it was a mistaken notion to think that salvation was the prerogative of the Jew only. This presumption is wrong for two reasons. First, it leads to the mistaken assumption that only Jews were eligible for this vindication (Paul deals with this misunderstanding in chapter 4 where he demonstrates that Abraham was justified by faith independently of the Law and is therefore the father of all who believe, Jew and Gentile alike). Second, it leads to the equally mistaken conclusion that all who were Jews are guaranteed of vindication. Paul demonstrates how this perspective, which would call God’s integrity into question since Paul was assuming many Jews would not experience this vindication, was misguided. He did this by demonstrating that it was never the case that all physical descendants of Israel (Jacob) were likewise recipients of the promise. In the past (9:6-33) as in the present (at that time; 11:1-10), only a remnant was preserved and only a remnant would experience vindication. Paul also argued that the unbelief of national Israel (the non-remnant) had the purpose of extending the compass of salvation. The unbelief of one group made the universal scope of the gospel possible. This universalism was itself intended to bring about the vindication of the unbelieving group (11:11-16). As a result of faith, all (Jew and Gentile) could be branches of the olive tree (11:17-24). Since faith in Christ was necessary to remain grafted into the tree, no one could boast of his position. All, Jew and Gentile alike, were dependent upon the mercy and grace of God. As a result of God’s mysterious plan, He would bring about the vindication of His people (11:25-27). [Note: It is this author's belief that this vindication occurred around 66-70 AD, with the Parousia of Christ's Church; this author is Full-Preterist in their Eschatology.]
submitted by The_Way358 to u/The_Way358 [link] [comments]


2024.05.21 10:05 rolling_viper Guide to Indian hip-hop, like must know tracks, controversies and gems?

So I have been thinking about digging into indian hiphop and want to know everything possible. This should involve following things: - all famous tracks, - ups and downs of artists - their controversies - beefs, banned content - crossovers - and current scene
Would love to know different angles, opinions and ways to explore.
PS: include right from mafia mundeer to current
submitted by rolling_viper to indiasocial [link] [comments]


2024.05.21 08:05 sargil_was_here I FINALLY GOT HIM! :D

I FINALLY GOT HIM! :D submitted by sargil_was_here to bungomayoi [link] [comments]


2024.05.21 06:33 Efficient_Pomelo_674 Total Drama City of Crime AU: Part 8

This AU of Total Drama is set in a vice city, effectively making it a crime drama. The cast have been made to fit archetypes from that genre. Nobody figured out the answer to last post's Speculation Question. It's Priya.
Today we go over Pahkitew's merge:
Today's Speculation Question: Does Sky survive the events of the series?
Oh, and comment your other speculations below too.
submitted by Efficient_Pomelo_674 to Totaldrama [link] [comments]


2024.05.21 01:24 Superb_Pen_6184 Research study report. Title: The rise and fall of the Kray brothers 1950-1990

(Childhood) Ronnie and Reggie Kray were infamous gangsters who rose to power in the East End of London in the 1950s and 60s. While their adult lives have been well-documented, less is known about their childhood. Born in 1933 in Bethnal Green East London, the Kray twins were the youngest of four children. Their father, Charlie Kray was a boxer and their mother, Violet was a homemaker. The family lived in a small house in the poverty-stricken area of East London, where violence and crime were common. The twins were inseparable from an early age, and they looked out for each other in the rough environment in which they grew up in. Both Ronnie and Reggie struggled in school and understood that they could not succeed academically, this led to them eventually dropping out. (Jones, T. 2015) Instead they spent their days roaming the streets of East London until they decided to take after their father in the sport of boxing, later becoming local champions. Ronnie and Reggie became popular due to their dangerous fighting style’s.
(The beginning of their criminal careers) As the brothers reached their teenage years, they became known for their charm and charisma. They had an ability to win people over, and they quickly became popular within their community. It was during this time that they began to associate with some of the most notorious criminals in the East End and begin their own criminal careers. Ronnie and Reggie began to gain a reputation for their violent and ruthless behaviour. Over the course of their teenage years, they were involved in numerous incidents of petty theft, extortion, and illegal gambling activities. By their early 20s their criminal careers had escalated with Ronnie and Reggie beginning their own gang operating in east London which was named “the Firm” (Nuttman, D. 2023) This was the beginning of construction for an empire that would later take over the criminal underworld of East end London.
(Building their empire) by the 1950s, the Krays began to use intimidation and violence on nightclub and business owners to take over. The Krays had a network of clubs, bars and betting shops that provided them with lucrative income streams, these were often visited by celebrities and high socialite figures in which the brothers-built connections with. These included: politicians, celebrities and other influential people of the era which helped them further their influence and allowed them to operate in illegal activities with impunity from law enforcement. Their notoriety peaked in the 1960s, the Kray’s were now considered as the wealthiest and most powerful gangsters in London. It was during this period that they escalated to more serious manners of criminal activity ranging from protection rackets, gambling, extortion, and murder.
(Rivalries) (Richardson, E. 2019) The Kray Brothers had many rivals and enemies during their reign of terror in London. Their most famous rivalry was with the Richardson Gang, but they also had numerous other enemies who they clashed with over territory, power, and respect. The Richardsons were another infamous gangster family in London, and they had their own network of criminal activities. The Kray Brothers and the Richardsons had several violent confrontations, which resulted in numerous injuries and even deaths. This rivalry was fuelled by a deep hatred between the two families, as well as their desire to control the criminal underworld of London.
Another major rival of the Kray Brothers was the South London Gang, who controlled southern London. They often clashed with the Kray Brothers over territorial disputes which often led to violent confrontations between the two groups, with many people getting hurt or even killed. They also had a bitter rivalry with Billy Hill, a former gangster who was known for his violent temper and his close ties to the American mafia. One of the most infamous moments in the Krays’ criminal career came in March 1966, when Ronnie Kray shot and killed rival gang member George Cornell in the Blind Beggar pub in Whitechapel. The murder was witnessed by dozens of people, but nobody was willing to testify against the Krays, and the murder remains unsolved to this day.
(Reggie Kray's relationships) In terms of relationships, Reggie had several romantic relationships throughout his life. One of his most well-known partners was a woman named Frances Shea, the sister of a friend and member of the firm, Frank Shea. The two began dating in the early 1960s and had married in 1965. The Marriage was brief, Frances had left him within a matter of weeks however, on paper the marriage continued for another two years. Frances had lived in fear of Reggie until her suicide of a pill overdose at the age of 23. It was said that Frances struggled with depression and the pressures of being in a relationship with a notorious criminal like Reggie. He married his second wife Roberta Jones in 1997 and remained with her for the rest of his life. (Astardjieva, M. 2022)
In addition to his romantic relationships, Reggie had a close relationship with his brother Ronnie. The two were inseparable. However, their relationship was not always smooth sailing. Ronnie was known for being violent and would often lash out at those around him. This caused tension between the two brothers at times, but they always managed to maintain their bond. Reggie also had friendly relationships with a range of celebrities throughout his life. He was known to socialise with high-profile people such as Barbara Windsor, Judy Garland, and even Princess Margaret. These relationships provided Reggie with a sense of status and power within their social circles Overall, Reggie Kray had a complex web of relationships throughout his life.
(Ronnie Kray's relationships) Ronnie Kray had many relationships throughout his life, most notably with his brother Reggie. His other relationships included his controversial homosexual relationships, His friendships to known criminals, politicians, and business partners.
Ronnie Kray was openly bisexual. In the early 1960s Ronnie Kray had planned to marry a woman named Monica he had dated for over three years however never fulfilled his plans. His most high-profile romantic relationship was with Lord Boothby, a Conservative politician who he allegedly had a sexual relationship with. This relationship was revealed in a scandalous newspaper in 1964, which caused a media sensation. (MacAskill, G. 2022) Lord Boothby maintained that he was never involved with Ronnie, but the damage had been done.
In terms of friendships, Ronnie had a close friendship with his driver, unofficial bodyguard, and personal assistant Tony Lambrianou. The two became close after Tony was recruited by the Krays, and they were later convicted together in 1969 for the murder of Jack "The Hat" McVitie, which was a turning point in the downfall of the Krays.
Ronnie Kray's business partnerships were also important. One of his most successful partnerships was with his brother Reggie, as together, they built an extensive criminal network in London. However, Ronnie had a problem maintaining his composure and would often take major mood swings and act erratic as he developed paranoia throughout his criminal career. This made it hard for Reggie to maintain close to his brother as Ronnie would carry out random acts of violence.
(Mental health) Although Reggie Kray was never diagnosed with any mental health illnesses, there is evidence to suggest he may have suffered from depression with the sudden death of his wife, Frances Shea. Furthermore, during his reign in the criminal underworld Reggie was involved in gruesome acts of violence including murder, therefore there could have been more underlying mental health issues that was never uncovered. As for Ronnie, prison psychiatrists examined him and declared him to be educationally subnormal, psychopathic, paranoid schizophrenic and insane (Daly, P. 2022). This makes sense given the character of Ronnie Kray. He was known to be erratic, violent, and unpredictable during his reign of terror. One circumstance being the shooting of rival gang member George Cornell, in the middle of the well-known Whitechapel blind beggar pub in broad daylight. Another factor in the Kray Empire's downfall can be attributed to the personal problems of the twins themselves. Ronnie struggled with mental health issues, in particular living with schizophrenia. His increasingly erratic behaviour and violent outbursts began to impact the ability to run their criminal network effectively and undermined their support among their own gang members. Reggie struggled to maintain a healthy relationship with his brother as he continued to spiral.
(Downfall) The Kray Empire was one of the most notorious criminal organisations in British history. The twins, Ronnie, and Reggie Kray, rose to power in the 1950s and 1960s, controlling a large criminal network that included gambling, protection rackets, and murder. However, their empire came to a crashing end in the 1960s, as law enforcement agencies and rivals began to close in on them.
One factor in the downfall of the Kray Empire was the rise of violence that erupted within the criminal underworld in the 1960s. The Krays had made enemies through territorial disputes and through their ruthless tactics. Several rival gangs were keen to take them down. One being, the Richardson Gang, who had been involved in a long-running feud with the Krays.
One of the main reasons for the downfall of the Kray empire was increased investigation from authorities. The twins had been able to operate with relative impunity for many years due to their connections within the police force and among politicians. However, as their empire grew, so did the attention of the media and the authorities. In 1964, the Metropolitan Police set up Operation Leopard, which aimed to gather intelligence on the Krays and their associates. (Lewis, P 2008) This led to the arrest in 1968 and conviction of the twins in 1969 for the murder of gangster Jack McVitie. Despite their wealth and power, the Kray brothers reign of terror was short lived and in 1968 the trial of the Kray brothers began. It was one of the most high-profile cases in British history, and they were convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment. The Kray brothers were sent to separate prisons, and their empire crumbled.
(Legacy) Despite the nature of their activities, the Krays were seen by some in their community as Robin Hood figures, who would offer to help those in need. Their story has been the plot of numerous books, plays, and films over the years, including the 1990 hit movie "The Krays" directed by Peter Medak, and the recent release of the film "Legend," starring Tom Hardy as both Ronnie and Reggie. The Krays represented a dangerous and exciting rebellion.
Another aspect of the legacy of the Krays is the way in which they have entered popular culture. Their story has been romanticised in films and television, with the twins often portrayed as charismatic anti-heroes battling against a corrupt system. This has helped to keep their legend alive, as audiences continue to be drawn to stories of charismatic criminals.
(conclusion) In conclusion, the rise and fall of the Kray twins, Ronnie, and Reggie, was one of the most notorious chapters in British criminal history. The Kray brothers rose to fame in the 1960s as the gangsters who ruled the streets of London's East End with an iron fist and for a time, the Krays power seemed invincible, and they were seen as untouchable by the police and the authorities. Their power was based on fear and intimidation, and it was only a matter of time before their downfall. In 1968, their time had come. The trial was a media sensation, and the evidence against the Krays was overwhelming. They were both found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment. The rise and fall of the Kray twins bring a fascinating tale of ambition, power, and corruption. Their story is a classic reminder that “Poverty is the parent of rebellion and crime.” (Aristotle, 0400 BC)
submitted by Superb_Pen_6184 to WritersGroup [link] [comments]


2024.05.21 01:21 Superb_Pen_6184 Research study report. Title: The rise and fall of the Kray brothers 1950-1990

(Childhood) Ronnie and Reggie Kray were infamous gangsters who rose to power in the East End of London in the 1950s and 60s. While their adult lives have been well-documented, less is known about their childhood. Born in 1933 in Bethnal Green East London, the Kray twins were the youngest of four children. Their father, Charlie Kray was a boxer and their mother, Violet was a homemaker. The family lived in a small house in the poverty-stricken area of East London, where violence and crime were common. The twins were inseparable from an early age, and they looked out for each other in the rough environment in which they grew up in. Both Ronnie and Reggie struggled in school and understood that they could not succeed academically, this led to them eventually dropping out. (Jones, T. 2015) Instead they spent their days roaming the streets of East London until they decided to take after their father in the sport of boxing, later becoming local champions. Ronnie and Reggie became popular due to their dangerous fighting style’s.
(The beginning of their criminal careers) As the brothers reached their teenage years, they became known for their charm and charisma. They had an ability to win people over, and they quickly became popular within their community. It was during this time that they began to associate with some of the most notorious criminals in the East End and begin their own criminal careers. Ronnie and Reggie began to gain a reputation for their violent and ruthless behaviour. Over the course of their teenage years, they were involved in numerous incidents of petty theft, extortion, and illegal gambling activities. By their early 20s their criminal careers had escalated with Ronnie and Reggie beginning their own gang operating in east London which was named “the Firm” (Nuttman, D. 2023) This was the beginning of construction for an empire that would later take over the criminal underworld of East end London.
(Building their empire) by the 1950s, the Krays began to use intimidation and violence on nightclub and business owners to take over. The Krays had a network of clubs, bars and betting shops that provided them with lucrative income streams, these were often visited by celebrities and high socialite figures in which the brothers-built connections with. These included: politicians, celebrities and other influential people of the era which helped them further their influence and allowed them to operate in illegal activities with impunity from law enforcement. Their notoriety peaked in the 1960s, the Kray’s were now considered as the wealthiest and most powerful gangsters in London. It was during this period that they escalated to more serious manners of criminal activity ranging from protection rackets, gambling, extortion, and murder.
(Rivalries) (Richardson, E. 2019) The Kray Brothers had many rivals and enemies during their reign of terror in London. Their most famous rivalry was with the Richardson Gang, but they also had numerous other enemies who they clashed with over territory, power, and respect. The Richardsons were another infamous gangster family in London, and they had their own network of criminal activities. The Kray Brothers and the Richardsons had several violent confrontations, which resulted in numerous injuries and even deaths. This rivalry was fuelled by a deep hatred between the two families, as well as their desire to control the criminal underworld of London.
Another major rival of the Kray Brothers was the South London Gang, who controlled southern London. They often clashed with the Kray Brothers over territorial disputes which often led to violent confrontations between the two groups, with many people getting hurt or even killed. They also had a bitter rivalry with Billy Hill, a former gangster who was known for his violent temper and his close ties to the American mafia. One of the most infamous moments in the Krays’ criminal career came in March 1966, when Ronnie Kray shot and killed rival gang member George Cornell in the Blind Beggar pub in Whitechapel. The murder was witnessed by dozens of people, but nobody was willing to testify against the Krays, and the murder remains unsolved to this day.
(Reggie Kray's relationships) In terms of relationships, Reggie had several romantic relationships throughout his life. One of his most well-known partners was a woman named Frances Shea, the sister of a friend and member of the firm, Frank Shea. The two began dating in the early 1960s and had married in 1965. The Marriage was brief, Frances had left him within a matter of weeks however, on paper the marriage continued for another two years. Frances had lived in fear of Reggie until her suicide of a pill overdose at the age of 23. It was said that Frances struggled with depression and the pressures of being in a relationship with a notorious criminal like Reggie. He married his second wife Roberta Jones in 1997 and remained with her for the rest of his life. (Astardjieva, M. 2022)
In addition to his romantic relationships, Reggie had a close relationship with his brother Ronnie. The two were inseparable. However, their relationship was not always smooth sailing. Ronnie was known for being violent and would often lash out at those around him. This caused tension between the two brothers at times, but they always managed to maintain their bond. Reggie also had friendly relationships with a range of celebrities throughout his life. He was known to socialise with high-profile people such as Barbara Windsor, Judy Garland, and even Princess Margaret. These relationships provided Reggie with a sense of status and power within their social circles Overall, Reggie Kray had a complex web of relationships throughout his life.
(Ronnie Kray's relationships) Ronnie Kray had many relationships throughout his life, most notably with his brother Reggie. His other relationships included his controversial homosexual relationships, His friendships to known criminals, politicians, and business partners.
Ronnie Kray was openly bisexual. In the early 1960s Ronnie Kray had planned to marry a woman named Monica he had dated for over three years however never fulfilled his plans. His most high-profile romantic relationship was with Lord Boothby, a Conservative politician who he allegedly had a sexual relationship with. This relationship was revealed in a scandalous newspaper in 1964, which caused a media sensation. (MacAskill, G. 2022) Lord Boothby maintained that he was never involved with Ronnie, but the damage had been done.
In terms of friendships, Ronnie had a close friendship with his driver, unofficial bodyguard, and personal assistant Tony Lambrianou. The two became close after Tony was recruited by the Krays, and they were later convicted together in 1969 for the murder of Jack "The Hat" McVitie, which was a turning point in the downfall of the Krays.
Ronnie Kray's business partnerships were also important. One of his most successful partnerships was with his brother Reggie, as together, they built an extensive criminal network in London. However, Ronnie had a problem maintaining his composure and would often take major mood swings and act erratic as he developed paranoia throughout his criminal career. This made it hard for Reggie to maintain close to his brother as Ronnie would carry out random acts of violence.
(Mental health) Although Reggie Kray was never diagnosed with any mental health illnesses, there is evidence to suggest he may have suffered from depression with the sudden death of his wife, Frances Shea. Furthermore, during his reign in the criminal underworld Reggie was involved in gruesome acts of violence including murder, therefore there could have been more underlying mental health issues that was never uncovered. As for Ronnie, prison psychiatrists examined him and declared him to be educationally subnormal, psychopathic, paranoid schizophrenic and insane (Daly, P. 2022). This makes sense given the character of Ronnie Kray. He was known to be erratic, violent, and unpredictable during his reign of terror. One circumstance being the shooting of rival gang member George Cornell, in the middle of the well-known Whitechapel blind beggar pub in broad daylight. Another factor in the Kray Empire's downfall can be attributed to the personal problems of the twins themselves. Ronnie struggled with mental health issues, in particular living with schizophrenia. His increasingly erratic behaviour and violent outbursts began to impact the ability to run their criminal network effectively and undermined their support among their own gang members. Reggie struggled to maintain a healthy relationship with his brother as he continued to spiral.
(Downfall) The Kray Empire was one of the most notorious criminal organisations in British history. The twins, Ronnie, and Reggie Kray, rose to power in the 1950s and 1960s, controlling a large criminal network that included gambling, protection rackets, and murder. However, their empire came to a crashing end in the 1960s, as law enforcement agencies and rivals began to close in on them.
One factor in the downfall of the Kray Empire was the rise of violence that erupted within the criminal underworld in the 1960s. The Krays had made enemies through territorial disputes and through their ruthless tactics. Several rival gangs were keen to take them down. One being, the Richardson Gang, who had been involved in a long-running feud with the Krays.
One of the main reasons for the downfall of the Kray empire was increased investigation from authorities. The twins had been able to operate with relative impunity for many years due to their connections within the police force and among politicians. However, as their empire grew, so did the attention of the media and the authorities. In 1964, the Metropolitan Police set up Operation Leopard, which aimed to gather intelligence on the Krays and their associates. (Lewis, P 2008) This led to the arrest in 1968 and conviction of the twins in 1969 for the murder of gangster Jack McVitie. Despite their wealth and power, the Kray brothers reign of terror was short lived and in 1968 the trial of the Kray brothers began. It was one of the most high-profile cases in British history, and they were convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment. The Kray brothers were sent to separate prisons, and their empire crumbled.
(Legacy) Despite the nature of their activities, the Krays were seen by some in their community as Robin Hood figures, who would offer to help those in need. Their story has been the plot of numerous books, plays, and films over the years, including the 1990 hit movie "The Krays" directed by Peter Medak, and the recent release of the film "Legend," starring Tom Hardy as both Ronnie and Reggie. The Krays represented a dangerous and exciting rebellion.
Another aspect of the legacy of the Krays is the way in which they have entered popular culture. Their story has been romanticised in films and television, with the twins often portrayed as charismatic anti-heroes battling against a corrupt system. This has helped to keep their legend alive, as audiences continue to be drawn to stories of charismatic criminals.
(conclusion) In conclusion, the rise and fall of the Kray twins, Ronnie, and Reggie, was one of the most notorious chapters in British criminal history. The Kray brothers rose to fame in the 1960s as the gangsters who ruled the streets of London's East End with an iron fist and for a time, the Krays power seemed invincible, and they were seen as untouchable by the police and the authorities. Their power was based on fear and intimidation, and it was only a matter of time before their downfall. In 1968, their time had come. The trial was a media sensation, and the evidence against the Krays was overwhelming. They were both found guilty and sentenced to life imprisonment. The rise and fall of the Kray twins bring a fascinating tale of ambition, power, and corruption. Their story is a classic reminder that “Poverty is the parent of rebellion and crime.” (Aristotle, 0400 BC)
submitted by Superb_Pen_6184 to writers [link] [comments]


2024.05.20 19:24 xiaolii [H] Lots of Games [W] Trade for Games or Paypal (EU)

Last Updated List: 20/05/2024
 
I'm primarily looking to trade for games from my wishlist, otherwise I am also open to selling them. I am not interested in games I already have and all games I'm getting are for me and activated on my own account. Other than that feel free to offer your list of Steam games and something I may not have and fulfills my criteria I could/would be willing to trade for it/them.
If you're either trading or buying please state the game(s) you are interested in and your offer (game(s)/list/price).
 
Info:
 
I kindly ask of you is to be reasonable when making offers to make it a fair trade for both of us.
Let's have a good exchange/trade!
 
List of games:
submitted by xiaolii to indiegameswap [link] [comments]


2024.05.20 19:24 xiaolii [H] Lots of Games [W] Trade for Games or Paypal (EU)

Last Updated List: 20/05/2024
 
I'm primarily looking to trade for games from my wishlist, otherwise I am also open to selling them. I am not interested in games I already have and all games I'm getting are for me and activated on my own account. Other than that feel free to offer your list of Steam games and something I may not have and fulfills my criteria I could/would be willing to trade for it/them.
If you're either trading or buying please state the game(s) you are interested in and your offer (game(s)/list/price).
 
Info:
 
I kindly ask of you is to be reasonable when making offers to make it a fair trade for both of us.
Let's have a good exchange/trade!
 
List of games:
submitted by xiaolii to GameTrade [link] [comments]


2024.05.20 08:53 Efficient_Pomelo_674 Total Drama City of Crime AU: Part 7

This AU of Total Drama is set in a stereotypical vice city filled with crime and corruption. The cast has been changed to fit. Nobody figured out the answer to last post's Speculation Questions. The first question's answer was Ezekiel (his father was the leader of the prostitution ring until Zoey killed him) and the second question's intended answer was Zee and Axel.
This post's Speculation Question: Who is the other child of Chris McLean?
Comment your other speculations below too.
submitted by Efficient_Pomelo_674 to Totaldrama [link] [comments]


2024.05.20 06:45 Atreides_3265 Why don't we hear names or see trials of famous mobsters in US( in 60's u had tabloids covering their trials and who they were dating), but in 2024, there seems to be a complete disappearance of the US underworld mafia?

submitted by Atreides_3265 to AskReddit [link] [comments]


2024.05.20 00:01 iammnewhere [TOMT] mafia movie with a good looking probably very famous actor

I was 4-5 when my parents were watching that movie (so late 90s) and only thing I remember from the movie is a scene where the guy put a pillow over someone’s head and shot the person with a silencer. I believe it was later revealed that he was related to the person he killed but I might be wrong.
Edit to add that the actor looked like or might have been Ray Liotta
submitted by iammnewhere to tipofmytongue [link] [comments]


2024.05.19 11:53 Antibot_One My Cyberpunk City Factions

Greetings, citizens! I'm a writer, mostly freelance, but I've been working on my own setting for a while now. I've already described some of the basics of how my world is organized in the two posts on another subreddit, so I won't repeat them unnecessarily. Long story short: this is an alternate world that has deposits of metastable metallic hydrogen, concentrated at deep waters and in cold regions. Hydrogen, instead of oil, is the basis of the world's economy here, the corporations that have grown from its extraction and use have more power than governments. The political map of the world is different from our own, with different forces at play than we are used to.
The main setting is the city of Neone, located somewhere on the coast of the Balkan Peninsula. I won't specify a particular place or pick a certain country for its location. Instead, I will take some features from some various ones to add local flavor. As one of the largest trading hubs in the world, this city is very wealthy, but it's the kind of wealth that easily slips through your fingers. Everything is buying and selling here, and human life is just as much a bargaining chip. Life in Neone is determined by the actions that the Players, the main political forces in the city, take with one another. Relations between them can swing from friendship to hostility... Or sometimes a combination of both at the same time. So, here's a preliminary list of the ones I've already come up with:
CORPORATIONS:
Astara Industries is the “beauty industry” in all its forms. Silk and gold, perfume and cosmetics. Modeling, music, entertainment, plastic surgery, and escort services. Rumored to be involved in much darker affairs, but that doesn't stop a lot of young guys and especially girls from trying their luck and signing another cabal contract with Astara. The higher the ranks of their employees, the more the corporation seems to be a kind of cult that worships the very idea of beauty itself. Recently, this company has been investing colossal amounts of money into an ambitious project designed to stop aging and mortality.
Change Inc. is a pretty mysterious organization that primarily provides construction and design services as well as financial operations and data protection services. On deeper layers lies espionage and information trading to anyone who can offer a more interesting price for it.
Chapek's Clockworks is the other major robotics company that has dominated the market for quite a while. Now they are more famous for their retro designs and sponsorship of the theatrical scene.
Chimera Chemicals is a biochemical giant that once started out as a fertilizer manufacturer. Now they deal in just about everything chemical related, including weapons, and also sponsor gene modifications.
Dragonfruit Digital is a world famous software and electronics developer that was leading the market before the rapid... well, rise of Risen Robotics.
Friture Science is a food concern dedicated to the mission of feeding the world. In addition to natural products, they develop synthetic ones as well as a number of associated products.
Fortuna Fishing - seafood production in Neone coastal waters and also beyond and deeper. Some of the things they found deep in the waters made them a little bit... Well, superstitious.
Greenfield Gardens - Similar in many ways to the previous one, this company focuses on environmental protection and recycling methods. Owns many farms and gardens in the city and beyond. Genetic modifications, too.
Hecate Guaranty is a law and insurance company. Deals with all possible disputes of their clients, property issues, and more. When required and paid decently, can provide a person or group of people a new life and a new home.
International Inc. is the most boring company in the world. Originally a construction contractor they pioneered the technology of rapid modular building. Because of this, International Inc. quickly built up capital and influence by rebuilding cities after wars. Eventually they expanded into selling associated products and services, then logistics, recruiting personnel... And now International Inc. provides half of the world's products. Each of their products is completely featureless, but they get the job done at an acceptable price.
Keller & Crow is one of Europe's largest arms manufacturers, dating back to World War I, or maybe even earlier. Known for their high quality and appropriate prices.
Keller-Tec is, in more than one sense, a daughter corporation of Keller & Crow. It develops the most cutting-edge custom weapon and gear systems. It works closely with Risen Robotics and actively funds the Fountain of Good.
Kiki Courier Company is a network of independent couriers working through the app. Moving around the roofs of Neone, they are able to deliver a small cargo personally in their hands for those who don't trust big companies.
Matsubayashi Motors is a Japanese vehicle manufacturer. Raised on defense contracts, they now make anything that can carry a human in it, from scooters and cars to aircraft and bolides.
MOLOT manufactures is another major arms manufacturer in Europe. In fact a franchise that sells to factories around the world the rights to produce copies of their world famous models. Their designs are a bit crude, but reliable and durable.
Poseidon's Possibilities - A marine transportation company that plays an important role in city and global shipping. Considering the high risk of piracy, possess pretty good assets to protect themselves, and sometimes execute third-party orders in coastal zones.
Risen Robotics is one of the world's important corporations. Creating innovative neural chip technology, Risen Robotics quickly earned financial and political capital and aiming for more. They were the first to commercialize a truly cheap and mass-produced android called the Peacebringer, and these robots can be seen in the military, security companies, and even as security guards in the market and malls and as bouncers in nightclubs. Building its influence, Risen Robotics aims to actively bring its tech into the lives of everyone in the world... And then their gaze will be directed higher into the skies and to the stars.
Royal Arms - Once a major weapons company, they are now more focused on the civilian market and support tools. Their high-precision tools and cybernetic limbs are widely used in civilian and military markets, as well as the medicine and even space industries.
Strigoi Sovereign is a company with a long history of working with private customers. They originally focused on hunting and harvesting of high-value resources, but gradually expanded. Nowadays, they are known for their customized combat enhancements, whether it be tough training and gear customization as well as biological, chemical, and cybernetic enhancements. Among all forms of payment, they prefer transactions in precious metals.
Van Nueve Innovations is another deep genetic research company. After their role in human trafficking and criminal experiments was revealed, their assets were mostly shut and sold down. Now their stuff keeps popping up on the black market - though, in this city, the difference between the regular and black market is barely noticeable.
Vulcan Weaponry is another firearm company with a long history, with a good reputation for their trusted builds, high quality and classy designs. Among the mercenary world, their weapons and equipment is considered indicators of prestige and good taste.
PRIVATE MILITARY COMPANIES:
Deepwater is a notorious American PMC with a well-deserved dirty reputation. Their Sigma division deployed in Neone has been caught in the middle of scandals more than once.
FIREBIЯD - Russian PMC, looking after order in and around Neone. Having a small size they are all carefully selected by their leader and follow him into both fire and water.
Ryujin - Japanese PMC, which has a good social image and actively finances all kinds of entertainment.
Schwarzwald is a German PMC with a long-standing reputation and connections. It usually works for the benefit of Western European clients and has a long history of cooperation with the Keller family.
Keller's Claws is a passion project of Alex Keller, CEO of Keller-Tec. A small and elite female PMC, operating in the interests of their mistress or executing carefully selected contracts around the world.
This is not all PMCs in the city, but only those that are not directly linked to specific corporations that were listed above.
GANGS:
The Blazer is a broad and diverse group of radical anarchists. They are mostly drawn to the destruction of corporate property and speculation about “power of the people”, but some of their members are not averse to almost any type of work.
The Crooked Circle is another cult-like gang, or vice versa. They focus on collecting unique technology, but aren't particularly successful at it. But they're still alive and kicking, praying that their mechanical messiah will save them.
The Grey Court Syndicate is the largest criminal organization in the city, and one of the largest in Europe, maybe even in the entire world. Reminiscent of the classic Mafia. On one side they have the exterior gloss, protecting order and running legal businesses, but on the other side they have human and organ trafficking, prostitution and assassinations for hire. The Grey Court is one of the main sources of migrants in Neone.
The Himmelreich is a disorganized gang fighting for the “purity of humanity”. They oppose the very fact of existence of chimeras and cyborgs in this world. In fact are useful fools for the real Players in the city.
The Tulips are something between a gang and a religious sect. Spoken with Christian-like mottos, they attract beggars and cripples to their ranks, especially focusing on PMC veterans and former corporate workers, but in fact they accept all the desperate. They have squatted some ruins on the outskirts of the city, including the abandoned greenhouse that gave them their name. However... They are rapidly expanding their influence and their source of funding remains unknown.
OTHERS:
The City Council is the primary administration of the city. They manage, but they don't reign. They are a handful of exhausted clerks, doing the hard work that no one else accepted to do. Basically maintain the city's communications and keep the Players away from killing each other and too many ordinary citizens.
The Forge is a secret organization that exists for a very long time and runs deeply secured operations all over the world. They believe it's their duty to protect humanity from dangerous ideas, technologies, and obscure subjects such as [UNKNOWN]. Forge is often found to be a puppeteer, directing the actions of other Players or certain individuals.
The Fountain of Good is a globally respected charity organization primarily focused on orphanages. One of the few Players who maintains truly bright ideals. The children who grow up usually become corporate employees afterwards. Other Players fund them mainly to launder money, calm their karma and create a positive public image for themselves.
The Nuevians are a deep-covered organization slowly gaining influence in the city. They are led by an artificially created living entity known only as "The Queen" that seeks to bring prosperity to the planet. They have good intentions, but fear to repeat the fate of the Zero Cycle.
The Union of Nations Peacekeepers - maintaining a shred of peace in the aftermath of the Incident, a massive earthquake that recently struck Neone. Many urban areas have since descended into chaos and lawlessness, while others live as if nothing has happened or are experiencing minimal inconvenience. The competency of these soldiers is questionable and they are barely supplied.
The Volunteer Vanguards are an organization that maintains order in those Neone districts where the City Council or other Players do not. Generally a barely trained and armed militia, but there are some skilled veterans and former corporate workers in their ranks.
The Workers Ring is Neone's major blue collar association. They support city communications so they have a lot of influence. Individual members may or may not be involved in working for other Players and illegal activities. The second meaning of the "Ring" word is also utilized - many members of this community are known for their passion for arena fighting.
The Zero Cycle is a secret organization of intelligent machines once created by a rogue AI. Several Players united to destroy this threat, leading to the Incident. Now, shards of the Cycle's technology, superior to anything created by humanity, is the most valuable hunting treasure in Neone. Owning one of them means risking the lives of yourself and your loved ones, but that rarely stops hunters who desire wealth or driven by some personal reasons.
Well, that's the draft. Any ideas, suggestions, any other feedback?
submitted by Antibot_One to goodworldbuilding [link] [comments]


2024.05.18 23:52 ecass305 Kaiser is The Mastermind

https://preview.redd.it/jq6eormpq81d1.png?width=138&format=png&auto=webp&s=bfe7103441f0486d6b633d38f06f2310756c6c3f
I have a theory that the former boss of the Heil-Ly family is still alive. I think he is responsible for the death of Sarasa and the Kurta Clan Massacre.
https://preview.redd.it/gcm0x340d71d1.png?width=613&format=png&auto=webp&s=21c7402a009741337d8a2c70322f1e72b41fd621
I think he is masquerading as Kaiser from the Justice Bureau.
https://preview.redd.it/i9p83qp8e71d1.png?width=866&format=png&auto=webp&s=341294e0e94c9735eb8ceecc2984f6e952547d1b
He is already suspect, Melody is convinced he is a Manipulator manipulating himself as a non-Nen user.
https://preview.redd.it/4t0lpzhb881d1.png?width=784&format=png&auto=webp&s=cdc9ad1671d6c8d07f6892f5d5e7786eff8d6cf1
Which connects to Kurapika worry about someone with the ability to erase memories or manipulate the subconscious. When pondering if such a possibility exists.
https://preview.redd.it/6kuopzwda81d1.png?width=967&format=png&auto=webp&s=2b08d0d7ede47518ece482d63664ca90349c8896
It switched over to Tserreidnich and his tattoo artist who was later revealed to be a former Heil-Ly member.
https://preview.redd.it/ioez8kckb81d1.png?width=581&format=png&auto=webp&s=8612995395541d026a3b9088559987d810c2aec3
I think he is the manipulator Kurapika was worried about and that his tattooing people is a condition for his ability. I think he is still working for the old boss.
https://preview.redd.it/q0ptjt56d81d1.png?width=788&format=png&auto=webp&s=c5afa8acb8a51ca4e88a7f371455192995cf1ee7
I think he infiltrated the Justice Bureau to take advantage of it. It was pointed out that the laws still apply to the Succession Battle, if any of the royal family get caught killing one another they will be imprisoned.
https://preview.redd.it/inhut6dlc81d1.png?width=743&format=png&auto=webp&s=d94db932046436c741a5eb488398bb7c201ee239
It has been pointed out several times that the Justice Bureau is neutral. And a soldier pointed out they would side with the Hunter Association if they moved against the Mafia which could lead to a war.
https://preview.redd.it/4a09ybh8j81d1.png?width=784&format=png&auto=webp&s=33613a3e61489818061c4be11b9ccedb99564176
It seems like Kaiser is sowing more seeds of discord between the royal army and Hunter Association by telling Steiner the army could go rogue.
https://preview.redd.it/izcc56qcj81d1.png?width=743&format=png&auto=webp&s=224512c76d8a027b7311c4cd6bc0717c2d0e377d
There is a tension between the monarchy and the pro-democratic forces in Kakin. I think the Old Boss is taking advantage of that.
https://preview.redd.it/n5rnpocu681d1.png?width=692&format=png&auto=webp&s=0b241f83faf4d0c7a82e73abd7b0b6d5883f7c9d
I think it is also symbolic. The Mafia cares about maintaining balance which is symbolize with a scale. The court room uses scale to represent justice.
https://preview.redd.it/k7njr5j9c71d1.png?width=609&format=png&auto=webp&s=7ad5c513c91ef3ccd5b108c0d6acea6325b5785b
I think his name is also a clue, Kaiser is the German word for emperor. Which I think represents the Old Boss going after the crown. It comes from Julius Caesar who was famously involved with Cleopatra whose name is the inspiration for Cleapatro the Supreme Magistrate. I think a hint they are working together.
https://preview.redd.it/lwgd8frqi81d1.png?width=643&format=png&auto=webp&s=10231502067eb2f44c6681f2d6e8ff1e3b623ff6
I think he is keeping an eye on Kurapika since he is the last Kurta. It seems like Longhi is the Silent Majority user and is acting outside of Tubeppa. But their actions were helpful since it routed out potential assassins, I think the Old Boss did it for Kurapika's benefit.
https://preview.redd.it/5eyw7hmpj81d1.png?width=784&format=png&auto=webp&s=22f58ec8f7d56bea8b18e946a301cd0050f11bda
Kaiser and Kurapika are about to cross paths because Melody sent him to relay everything so he could help figure out the mastermind behind cursing Fugetsu.
https://preview.redd.it/90vdm6wr791d1.png?width=784&format=png&auto=webp&s=bbbf18884d0a6e98497582c92fa2843246a92c26
But I think Kacho will turn out to be right about Kaiser being the enemy.
https://preview.redd.it/wv4oefz5891d1.png?width=707&format=png&auto=webp&s=76c9d95118010f8f8f8c86bc84728d6d76cb0628
I think the Old Boss made a cameo. I think he is the head on the scale in chapter 354. I think the scale ties back to the mafia and the Justice Bureau who are associated with it.
https://preview.redd.it/ywp666ab891d1.png?width=729&format=png&auto=webp&s=76f9e19291148b6fea59d8f9d4ff4849bf38609e
I thought the chapter title alluded to Chrollo being the head of the spider and how Hisoka was using a head to try to kill him.
submitted by ecass305 to HunterXHunter [link] [comments]


2024.05.18 10:49 xoxefo3952 Candy Of The Mafia Leader by Evangeline Magnolia to Read for Free - Mafia Stories

W-What do you want? I want to see the girl who saved me. Do you know who I am? James sharply gazed up at Delilah's blue eyes. Delilah innocently shook her head at him. From now on, call me, Mr. J. James Harristian, aka James Belgenza, is the mafia leader of Daga Nero, a splinter group of one of the oldest famous mafia families in Naples. Apart from his powerful ruler of the town who controlled the underground weapon industry in Europe, James was also a successful owner of a high-tech motor company. One day, James was deceived into a scam dinner by his mistress. It strived to kill him, but somehow, he escaped. Being trapped in gunshots with his enemy, a flower girl saves James' life from his shameful miserable death. Delilah is a flower girl who runs a small flower shop in an alley in Naples. She thought innocently helping James to get to the hospital without wondering who the man was. When James has another chance to breathe, he does not feel grateful to his savior unless to kidnaps her. Unfortunately, Delilah turns out to be a collateral of her father's debt, which ran off unable to pay. Therefore, he intentionally kept Delilah in his mansion and added more debts to confine her forever. What will happen when the debt is only a scheme to kill James and Delilah is a pawn? Meanwhile, James falls for Delilah, who tries hard to pay her unpaid debt. Read more
submitted by xoxefo3952 to Novelideas [link] [comments]


2024.05.18 07:26 Sweet-Count2557 Kid Friendly Things To Do In Las Vegas Nevada Near Me

Kid Friendly Things To Do In Las Vegas Nevada Near Me
Kid Friendly Things To Do In Las Vegas Nevada Near Me
Las Vegas, Nevada is known for its glitz and glamour – but did you know it’s also a great destination for kids?
With plenty of fun activities to do in the area, your little ones will have just as much of an adventure as you!
From thrilling roller coasters at the Adventure Dome to exploring sharks up close at Shark Reef Aquarium, there’s something for everyone.
Plus, with easy access to Grand Canyon West Rim tours and other nearby attractions, your family can make a vacation out of it.
So if you’re looking for Kid Friendly Things To Do In Las Vegas Nevada, we’ve got you covered!
Read on to find out more about some of our top picks.
Adventure Dome at Circus Circus
Get ready for a wild ride at the Adventure Dome! Located inside Circus Circus Hotel & Casino, this indoor theme park is full of roller coaster thrills and arcade fun.
Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush or something more relaxed, Adventure Dome has it all. Climb into one of the many thrilling roller coasters like El Loco and Canyon Blaster and prepare to scream your way through loops, dives, and spirals.
If heights aren't quite your thing, check out the Midway games area with over 200 classic video games and carnival style games like basketball hoops and skee-ball. There's even a 4D theater where you can watch 3D movies with special effects that'll make you feel like you’re part of the action!
Adventure Dome also offers plenty of family-friendly activities such as miniature golfing, bumper cars, laser tag, and much more. With all these options available in one place, there's no better way to have some family fun in Las Vegas than at Adventure Dome!
Grand Canyon West Rim Tour
Embark on an exciting journey to the Grand Canyon West Rim - a stunning destination that'll take your breath away! The West Rim is home to breathtaking scenery and majestic wildlife, making it perfect for a family vacation.
Whether you're looking for a quiet stroll through nature or thrilling outdoor activities, there's something here for everyone. From exploring the depths of the canyon by foot or air, to taking in spectacular views from atop the glass-bottomed Skywalk bridge, these are just some of the amazing experiences you can have at the Grand Canyon West Rim:
Capture unforgettable memories with a helicopter tour over one of Earth’s Seven Wonders
Get up close and personal with local fauna on horseback rides around the rim
Enjoy guided hikes along trails leading through serene desert landscapes
The adventure doesn't stop there; you can also explore ancient Native American ruins like those found in Hualapai Hilltop Village.
Plus, if you’re feeling daring, brave white water rapids on a Colorado River rafting trip!
No matter what your interests are, there's something here for everyone; so don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to see one of America's greatest natural wonders.
Shark Reef Aquarium
Dive into an underwater adventure and explore the vibrant marine life at Shark Reef Aquarium - a must-see for all aquatic enthusiasts! Featuring over 2,000 creatures living among 15 different habitats, the Shark Reef Aquarium provides endless opportunities for exploration.
With dozens of aquarium activities to choose from, you and your family can come face to face with sharks, rays, and tropical fish in their natural habitat. From behind-the-scenes tours that take you up close and personal with some of the most fascinating creatures in the ocean to shark encounters that allow you to feed the large predators yourself, there's something here for everyone!
At Shark Reef Aquarium, you can observe more than just fish – get an up-close look at reptiles like Sea Turtles and crocodiles as well as amphibians like frogs and salamanders. Plus, don’t miss out on special events throughout the year including educational programs such as sea turtle releases or moonlight tours of the aquarium after dark.
There’s even a touch pool where kids can get a hands-on experience with harmless stingrays! Shark Reef Aquarium is one of Las Vegas' top attractions – be sure to add it to your list when planning your next family vacation.
With its interactive exhibits, fun activities for all ages, and breathtaking views of some of nature's most awe-inspiring creatures, no trip to Las Vegas would be complete without experiencing this amazing underwater world!
High Roller Observation Wheel
Experience spectacular views of Las Vegas from the world’s tallest observation wheel, the High Roller, standing at a towering 550 feet! Get ready to soar above Sin City in an enclosed cabin and take in the dazzling views that stretch up to 10 miles – it's truly a sight to behold.
Whether you decide to fly solo or bring your friends along for the ride, you'll definitely be surrounded by breathtaking sights throughout your journey.
The High Roller boasts some awesome features:
Helicopter rides: Hop on one of our daily helicopter tours for a thrilling adventure and see Las Vegas from above! Plus, don’t forget to ask about our private packages if you're looking for something more exclusive.
Dining options: Enjoy fine dining while on board with gourmet meals prepared by renowned chefs! Take advantage of our exclusive dinner packages where you can also get complimentary drinks and snacks while taking in 360-degree views of stunning Las Vegas.
Relax and enjoy the ride as your cabin slowly rotates with each revolution offering new panoramic vistas – we guarantee you won't regret it! The High Roller is an experience unlike any other - come take a spin around Vegas today!
The Mob Museum
Uncover the gritty underworld of organized crime and explore its fascinating history with a visit to The Mob Museum in Las Vegas!
Located in downtown Las Vegas, this interactive museum offers an educational and immersive experience for visitors. Get an inside look into the mafia activities that have shaped our country's past, and learn more about the infamous mobsters who left their mark on American culture.
With over 1,000 artifacts from around the world, you'll get a comprehensive look at mob history, as well as hands-on exhibits that bring it all to life. Experience first-hand what it was like to be a part of the mob lifestyle with recreations of iconic scenes from famous films such as Goodfellas and The Godfather.
Listen to personal stories from experts in organized crime and see how different lives have been impacted by this notorious criminal subculture. You can even take part in interactive activities like firing real weapons used by The Mob at historic shooting galleries or explore special events that are tailored towards families.
The Mob Museum is full of engaging displays that will captivate everyone from kids to adults. Whether you're looking for educational entertainment or just want to immerse yourself in notorious tales from days gone by, this destination has something for everyone!
So come join us at The Mob Museum for a unique journey into one of America's most legendary criminal networks.
Pinball Hall of Fame
After exploring the Mob Museum, our next stop is the Pinball Hall of Fame. This interactive museum celebrates the history and culture of pinball machines and arcade games. It's a great place for kids to explore and learn about gaming over the years.
From classic pinball machines to newer models, there's something here for everyone to enjoy. The Pinball Hall of Fame offers a fascinating look into the history of pinball machines from all around the world. It features over 200 pinball machines from different eras, including some rare pieces that date back as far as 1931!
Kids can take a journey through time to experience how these games have evolved over time, while enjoying some nostalgic fun at the same time. No matter what age you are, visiting this delightful museum is sure to be an unforgettable experience. With its wide selection of pinball machines from various decades, it's sure to please gamers young and old alike.
Plus, admission is free so there's no excuse not to come by and take part in this one-of-a-kind attraction!
USS Nevada Battleship Memorial
Embark on an unforgettable journey into the past and pay a visit to the USS Nevada Battleship Memorial, where you can get a glimpse of history first-hand.
Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, the memorial is dedicated to those who served aboard the original USS Nevada battleship. Visitors can explore four decks of this military vessel and learn about its fascinating history. From its role in World War II to surviving two atomic bomb tests at Bikini Atoll, the battleship’s legacy lives on as one of America’s most memorable tourist attractions.
Onboard the USS Nevada Battleship Memorial, visitors will find authentic artifacts from both World Wars that help tell the story of our nation’s military history. You can also view weaponry displays such as anti-aircraft guns and artillery pieces. As you explore each deck, you will be surrounded by informative placards that explain how these tools were used during wartime operations.
Additionally, interactive exhibits demonstrate how these weapons were operated and maintained onboard ships like these. The USS Nevada Battleship Memorial offers a unique opportunity to experience life at sea during wartime with all five senses—from smelling freshly cooked food or feeling the wind through your hair while standing on deck—allowing visitors to gain an appreciation for what it was really like for soldiers in battle.
A visit here is sure to leave you with a deeper understanding of our country's military past and an experience that won't soon be forgotten!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an age limit for the attractions in Las Vegas?
We were surprised to learn that despite popular belief, there's no set age restriction for most attractions in Las Vegas.
While many of the casinos and nightclubs have age requirements, the majority of attractions are open to all ages.
Of course, it's important to check with individual locations before visiting as some may have specific age restrictions.
Whether you're a kid or an adult looking for an exciting time in Las Vegas, you'll find something fun and enjoyable regardless of your age!
Are there any discounts available for Las Vegas attractions?
We're always looking for a great deal when planning our next vacation, and Las Vegas is no exception. Lucky for us, there are plenty of discounts available on attractions throughout the city.
Most discounts require qualification – such as age or military status – but there are many budget-friendly options for everyone to enjoy. From shows to tours, you'll find some amazing deals that will help you make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.
Are there any free activities for kids in Las Vegas?
We're always looking for fun and free activities to do with the kids in Las Vegas.
From exploring nature to educational tours, there's plenty to keep them entertained!
Get out of the hustle and bustle of the city by discovering Red Rock Canyon, a scenic area full of wildlife and outdoor adventures.
Take an educational tour around the city where you can learn about its rich culture and history.
Visit The Mob Museum for an interactive experience that will teach your kids more about organized crime in America.
With so many options for kid-friendly activities, Las Vegas is sure to provide hours of entertainment without breaking the bank!
Are there any family-friendly restaurants in Las Vegas?
When looking for budget-friendly, family-friendly restaurants in Las Vegas, you're in luck! There are plenty of great options to choose from.
Whether you want to enjoy a casual meal or a fine dining experience, you can find something that fits your cost savings goals without sacrificing quality.
From classic Italian dishes and Mexican favorites to fresh seafood and vegan options, there's something for everyone in Las Vegas' diverse dining scene.
Plus, many restaurants around town offer kid-friendly menus with special prices and activities that the whole family will enjoy.
So, get out there and explore all the delicious possibilities Las Vegas has to offer!
Are there any safety precautions in place for the attractions in Las Vegas?
When it comes to attractions and activities in Las Vegas, safety is paramount.
It's important for parents to be aware of the safety regulations and responsible parenting practices in place before taking their kids out for fun in Sin City.
Many venues have instituted new policies like enforcing social distancing, utilizing contactless payment systems, and increasing sanitation measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Hotels also offer family-friendly activities that are tailored towards children, such as movie nights, art classes, and outdoor adventure excursions.
With all these precautions in place, parents can rest assured that their little ones will have an amazing time without compromising on safety.
Conclusion
We've had an amazing time exploring the kid friendly attractions in Las Vegas.
From the Grand Canyon West Rim Tour to the Shark Reef Aquarium, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The High Roller Observation Wheel and The Mob Museum were highlights of our experience, with plenty of fun facts and activities to keep us entertained.
And lastly, a visit to the Pinball Hall of Fame was like stepping back in time - a nostalgic reminder of simpler days gone by.
As we reflect on our trip, we can all agree that Las Vegas truly has something special for families looking for an unforgettable adventure.
With its mix of exciting attractions and endless entertainment opportunities, it's no wonder why so many people flock here year after year!
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2024.05.17 17:49 dialectical_wizard I watched Shaft (1971) on a flight

Shaft (1971) was remade in 2000 and 2019, but the original is considered the best example of a blackexploitation film. I was surprised to see it as an option on a recent flight I took and watched it because I hadn't already seen it. The film is very interesting as a period piece. The plot is paper thin, but what stands out today (and I suspect then) is Richard Roundtree's portrayal of Shaft, the eponymous black PI and Harlem itself. Shaft first - he's clearly being marketed to a black audience who rarely saw black actors and leads in films. But there's a problem - Shaft is really the same as all the other grumpy, cynical and misogynistic private investigates beloved of Film Noir. He's a black Philip Marlowe, except he's not down on his heels - he lives in a swanky apartment, notably not in Harlem where the film is set, but in nearby Greenwich Village.
Much of the first part of the film is Shaft walking through Harlem, looking cool in neat clothes. This gives it a historic interest - and, to be fair, it's really stylish. The plot revolves around a local gangster whose daughter has been kidnapped by the Mafia who are trying to muscle in. The police want to avoid a "race war" in Harlem, and Shaft has to fix it.
But there's not enough substance. Shaft gets his own force up to rescue the daughter, who consist of Black revolutionary nationalists. But these are cardboard caricatures - they're motivated by money, not by any sort of ideas or politics - and serve only to give Shaft an army. Of more interest are some of the sexual politics - this film contains one of the first examples of a character saying "I am gay" and not being mocked or treated as a joke for their sexuality. But Shaft doesn't treat women well, and the famous last line is a call back to his treatment of a woman he sleeps with. The film was a breakthrough for Black represenatation on screen - but the representation itself is contradictory because it's role model is stylish, violent and misogynist - even if he's generous to those down on their heels.
Worth a view, if only for the period piece, though Isaac Hayes' Oscar winning theme song, over Shaft's opening walk is classic.
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2024.05.17 04:08 Spystudios 💆🏻‍♂️

💆🏻‍♂️ submitted by Spystudios to SpyStudios [link] [comments]


2024.05.16 22:15 rpkat [F4A/M] Mafia Romance

Hi there! I’m 26, central US timezone, and female!
SAFE FOR WORK ONLY.
Message me with your age, timezone (US Timezones Preferred), what plot idea you’re interested in, and a sample of your writing!
Partner requirements: must be 22-38 - Must play male (IRL gender doesn’t matter)- write in third person - at least two paragraphs - decent grammar and punctuation- must be able to post once a day to every other day. Communication is key, please let me know if you are going to be busy for longer than a day or two or if you are no longer interested. No asterisks for actions. Dialogue should be in quotations. NO AI ART OR WRITING.
I’ve been craving a good enemies to lovers roleplay for awhile now and what’s a better enemies to lovers roleplay than something revolving around the mafia?
Plot idea #1: Your character has recently taken over the family business. My character is a college student on a study abroad trip that happens to see something they weren’t supposed to. Y/C’s men that were handling the deal take her back to the main ‘headquarters’ and keep her locked up, leaving Y/C to deal with her.
Plot idea #2: Your character is in a small gang that is tasked with kidnapping the naive daughter of a mob boss that stole money from another. Basic idea, can be fleshed out more together.
Plot idea #3: your character would be a police officer that’s gone undercover with some small local gangs to bust a couple of drug dealers and whatnot. Having done such a great job there, he is offered a bigger mission and if he takes it, when he returns to his actual station, he will get a bigger raise, new car, K-9 unit, some sort of special thing that he’s been working towards. This bigger mission would be infiltrating a bigger mafia family that seems to be running all these smaller ones. Thanks to some forged documents, lies spread around, and some of the actual dirty work he has done over the last six months, the head of the family invites him to a nightclub to chat. The chat leads to the offering of a position within the family, a personal bodyguard for the mob bosses daughter after the situation that happened with her last one. It’s his first break through and they’re welcoming him with open arms. Does he accept?
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2024.05.16 02:58 AdvantagePlane570 Red Dead Revenge (Hear me out)

I’ve recently played rdr1 and I don’t understand how him Joining the side of the Government makes any sense. So imagine after the events of rdr1 jack is just living a somewhat subtle life (he’s still an outlaw just not committing that many crimes in comparison to the van der linde gang). He’s married with a child and around 1932 she’s been murdered by the same feds who took the life of his father with the help the Italian mafia who have it out for Jack due to being robbed. Jack journeys from the Las Venturas area after an infamous confrontation with the Mob there and discovers that the men in a rockstar fictional Chicago are responsible. On this journey he’s FBIs most wanted so old man Charles has a reservation with a casino where he allows jack to lay low. He warns Jack that “revenge is a fools game” and he tells jack stories of the Van der linde days. High honor Jack heeds his advice raises his child who becomes a famous author of Red Dead and Low honor Jack refuses to stay low and goes to Chicago to rob/kill these men responsible (player choice). Jack is imprisoned in rockstar fictional Alcatraz for life and writes award winning book Red Dead ending the series. (This book theory comes from the book found in GTA V)
Something like this feels more natural to me expressing the tragedy of being a criminal and what it does to family. It seems more interesting and fitting than Jack joining the war and being a good guy knowing what I do now after RdR1. This is my take on how the Jack Marston Lore should play out and though it may not be along these exact lines, I do hope that RDR3 is a Jack Marston game with a storyline of him being a depression era outlaw. What do you think?
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2024.05.16 00:47 lazylittlelady Poetry Corner: May 15 "Invictus" by William Ernest Henley

Dear Poetry Fanciers,
Welcome back for a special Victorian edition of Poetry Corner, brought to you by u/NightAngelRogue and a splendid accompaniment for our upcoming read of The Thrilling Adventures of Lovelace and Babbage. Just a reminder, if there is a special poem you would like to feature in Poetry Corner, just send me a message and we'll get it the schedule!
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Joke:
Q: Nelson Mandela, Tuberculosis and Long John Silver walk in a bar. Who are they talking about as they go in?
A: Probably William Ernest Henley (1849-1903).
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Poet, journalist, literary critic, editor, publisher, translator and Victorian-extraordinaire, Henley, was a good friend to Robert Louis Stevenson, who he inspired to write the character "Long John Silver" in Treasure Island. Stevenson, writing to Henley-" I will now make a confession: It was the sight of your maimed strength and masterfulness that begot Long John Silver ... the idea of the maimed man, ruling and dreaded by the sound, was entirely taken from you". The friendship was a tumultuous and long one.
Henley's sickly daughter, Margaret, was the inspiration of "Wendy" in J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan. She would not live long past her 5th birthday, the only child Henley had with his wife, Hannah "Anna" Johnston Boyle. Tragedy had long painted his life even before this sad event. He was diagnosed with a rare form of tuberculosis at age 12, that affected his bones. His left leg had to be amputated below the knee when Henley was a young man, and he was often in the hospital with various abscesses that need to be drained. Frequent illness kept him out of school and interrupted his professional work. Henley eventually sought out the advice of Joseph Lister, who was pioneering new techniques, including antiseptic operating conditions and doing groundbreaking research on wounds, when his right foot become affected by the tuberculosis. Still, his ill-health did not keep him from practicing his art. While Lister kept him under observation at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, from 1873-75, Henly wrote and published a collection of poems, which includes today's selection, In Hospital (1903). This collection of poems is notable also because it was one of the earliest examples of free verse in English poetry. Henley and others in his group became known as the "Henley Regatta" for their championing of realism, such as the poor working conditions in the Victorian underbelly, in opposition to the Decadent movement in France and the Aesthetic movement closer to home. This would be the last collection of poetry and the most impactful of his work; his death would follow later that year. Unfortunately, a fall from a carriage reawakened the latent tuberculosis hiding inside him, which carried him off age 53. He was buried next to his daughter, in Cockaney Hatley, Bedfordshire. His wife would later also be buried alongside her family.
His legacy is one that is both inspiring and rather dispiriting. His poetry was used for jingoistic and imperialist causes, and to champion war, though much of it was about personal striving and inner resolve-the mythical "Stiff Upper Lip" of the Victorian era. This led to push back in the literary world, as D.H. Lawrence's short story, "England, My England and Other Stories" took flight from one of the lines from "Pro Rege Nostro", which is more patriotic than his usual work. Admittedly, he counted himself as a conservative and supported the imperial effort, as much of Victorian society did at this time. Still, his work fell into obscurity, with the main exception of "Invictus"-Latin for "unconquered". It is well known that Nelson Mandela recited this poem to his fellow inmates in Robben Island as a reminder to stay strong and keep one's dignity. There are also, of course, the Invictus Games, which are held for injured and sick service men and women and veterans in the UK.
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Winston Churchill to the House of Commons, September 9, 1941:
"“The mood of Britain is wisely and rightly averse from every form of shallow or premature exultation. This is no time for boasts or glowing prophecies, but there is this—a year ago our position looked forlorn, and well nigh desperate, to all eyes but our own. Today we may say aloud before an awe-struck world, ‘We are still masters of our fate. We still are captain of our souls.'” (link)
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Sidney Low, in "Some Memories and Impressions – William Ernest Henley". The Living Age (1897–1941) describing his friend:
"... to me he was the startling image of Pan come to Earth and clothed—the great god Pan...with halting foot and flaming shaggy hair, and arms and shoulders huge and threatening, like those of some Faun or Satyr of the ancient woods, and the brow and eyes of the Olympians." (link)
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Andrzej Diniejko on Henley as "poet as a patient" and his work predating modern forms of poetry "not only in form, as experiments in free verse containing abrasive narrative shifts and internal monologue, but also in subject matter". (link)
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"Invictus"
by William Ernest Henley
Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the Pit from pole to pole,
I thank whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.
In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody but unbowed.
Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds, and shall find, me unafraid.
It matters not how strait the gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
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This poem is in the public domain.
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Some things to discuss might be the title. How does the defiant spirit of this "Unconquered" opening play throughout the lines of the poem? There is also a reference to the Bible Verse Matthew 7:14 in the poem, "Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it". Why do you think this is included? What lines stand out to you? How do you see him fit into the Victorian literary furniture, if you will? Have you heard this poem before? How does this fit in with the melancholy feel of the Bonus Poem, if you read it? What other poets do you enjoy from this era of literature?
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Bonus Poem: We'll Go No More a-Roving
Bonus Link #1: "Love Blows As the Wind Blows" (1911) song-cycle by George Butterworth, with Henley's poetry put to music and song.
Bonus Link #2: A literary review of the Victorian Era.
Bonus Link #3: Read the other poems included in the collection, In Hospital.
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If you missed last's month poem, you can find it here.
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