#6 stalwarts AU

[comospite]

i f0rg0r i can als0 p0st AU stuff here

[lmk-monkiesibs-au]

as promised, here are this au's designs for half of the stalwart generals of flower fruit mountain!

let's begin with the marshals!

info on them under the cut!

up first, Ma!

she's the youngest (and shortest) of the Stalwart Generals, and based off a lar gibbon. her main color is green (duh), and metals are always silver (because op loves color-coding stuff).

personality wise, i envision her as more of a playful type. she's funny and a little chaotic, and really popular amongst the island's youngsters. she tends to be pretty blunt at times and isn't afraid to speak her mind when the situation calls for it. usually, Ma's pretty quick to drop any pretenses of formality amongst her fellow generals — she sees her responsibility as huaguoshan's marshal less like a burden and more like being part of the King's extended family (which, let's be honest, it kind of is). she's rated a 6 out of 10 in mihou's uncle/aunt scale. only because she's a liiitle too loud for him

her weapon of choice is a shangshou dadao — basically, a real big sword. how does she wield it considering she's really short? she's got loooong arms. where does she store it? think something like Azure Lion's sword — it's got a magic pocket dimension of it's own. or something.

she's unlikely besties with Liu. sorry I don't make the rules.

next up, Liu!

he's like. the second tallest of the generals, and looks-wise, mostly based off on new gods: nezha reborn version of wukong — while some other elements, like the red marking on his face come from snow macaques. his main color is teal, and metals (except for his jian) are champagne gold.

personality wise, Liu is very stern and reserved. he's extremely serious about his "job" as marshal and scarily orderly in everything he does. he might seem a little cold or distant at first, but he would kill and die for anyone he cares about (which, somewhat unfortunately, includes the entirety of ffm's inhabitants in one way or another). pretty soft spoken, Liu literally cannot raise his voice past a certain volume — that doesn't stop him from being the biggest gossip around. and that puts him down as a solid 9 out of ten in mihou's uncle/aunt scale. he's absolutely aware of that fact and cherishes it, even if he could not care less at first.

Liu's weapon of choice is the Jian. another type of sword, that while not as flashy as Ma's, certainly does its job. everything about it is pretty traditional; he's even got a whole scabbard getup for it, a tassel for tying at the pommel, et cetera, et cetera.

anyway, that's about it for the marshalls! next are generals Beng and Ba. they very much are developed but there's no art ready yet D: keep an eye out for them, because they will be posted too...eventually!

[cindernet-exploded]

Pinned post!

Aethy and Blue Sky links for where I may post full NSFW

U'nia Redfeather Vairemont

Pronouns: She/Her

Gender: Trans Woman

Sexuality: Polyamourous Lesbian/Demi

Bloodline: Mixed Duskwight/Xaela

Jobs: Mystic Knight [MTK] (PLD with more magic w/ sword imbueing), MNK, AST/WHM Hybrid, DRK, FSH, CUL

Height: 7'8"

Short Bio: Selectively mute and willing to sit on the sidelines in a conversation, U'nia seems to most as the stoic silent type. To those that know her, however, she's a beacon of love and care, willing to shine her light on any that will accept. It takes a lot to get her to open up, but when she does you'll never find a more stalwart friend.

Tags: Screenshots || Lore || Aesthetic

Ship tags: Girls in Red [U'nia/Alisaie/Lyse] || Dreaming in Blue [U'nia/Ysayle] || Void and Ash [U'nia/Flidais] || One Steppe at a Time [U'nia/Cirina] || In Menphina's Arms [U'nia/Zhloe] || Niabette [U'nia/Nabette] || U'niyami [U'nia/Ayami] || Mirth and Magic [U'nia/Ayami/Flidais] || Written in the Stars [U'nia/Leveva]

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Nabette Vairemont

Pronouns: She/Her

Gender: Cis Woman

Sexuality: Bi

Bloodline: Mixed Duskwight/Xaela

Jobs: Sage

Height: 6'11"

Short Bio: Fiercely loyal and protective of her sister to a fault, Nabette can come across as grating to those that don't know her. Energetic and good with people at face value, yet not knowing how to make that connection beyond that. Those stubborn enough to work through that will find a woman who won't throw them away for anything.

Tags: Screenshots || Lore || Aesthetic

Relationship Tags: Niabette [U'nia/Nabette]

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Shyssa Ironheart

Pronouns: They/Them

Gender: ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Sexuality: Pan

Bloodline: Hyur (when alive), Android now

Jobs: Nightblade [NTB] (a mix of Gladiator and Samurai)

Height: 5'10"

Short Bio: Once a technician and enforcer in the Allagan Empire, a tragic accident almost took their life. On the last thread of that life, their partner put them into life support for nearly a year while she laboured to research soul transference. Reaching a breakthrough, Shyssa's soul was taken from their nearly dead body and placed into an android recreation of them, staying powered until the Allagan Empire crumbled in the wake of the Calamity of Earth. Repowered for the first time in multiple eras, rebuilt by the wishes of she who bears the soul Shyssa once did, they now explore a world so different from the one they knew, trying to find a purpose.

Tags: Screenshots || Lore || Aesthetic

Relationship Tags: Weaponized Waltz (Allagan Era) || Shyssa/Honey B (Current) || Built to Last [Shyssa/Crescent]

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A'vyra Mitu

Pronouns: He/She/They (in that order)

Gender: GNC Cis Man

Sexuality: Gay

Bloodline: Mixed Seeker/Keeper Miqo'te

Jobs: MCH, GNB, BSM, CRP

Height: 4'11"

Short Bio: Explosive. A word with many meanings, and all of which apply to A'vyra. She bursts with energy, both on and off the battlefield, and his voice matches in volume. He's often first to act and last to leave, willing to give himself up to buy time for his friends. To know A'vyra is to know unrelenting support, and unwavering devotion.

Tags: Screenshots || Lore || Aesthetic

Relationship Tags: The Soldier and the Poet [A'vyra/Alphinaud]

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Oketra

Pronouns: She/Her

Gender: Cis Woman

Sexuality: Aro/Ace

Bloodline: Mixed Rava Viera/Raen Au Ra

Jobs: BLM, NIN, DNC

Height: 6'

Short Bio: Prickly and standoffish to those that don't know her, and often to those that do, Oketra seems to most as just another asshole in the world. Yet to those she's close to, that deign to look beyond that, see a woman who cares fervently for any and everyone she may come across. She just doesn't always show it how you'd expect.

Tags: Screenshots || Lore || Aesthetic

Relationship Tags: Oketra/Krile || Oketra/Cymet

[santacoppelia]

Hiiiiii, I'm here for the ask game 5 and 6 make me very curious since you mentioned that you read a lot of fanfics!!!!

Hi!! Sorry for taking so long, I had a very busy week and a half with work related stuff sucking out every free minute and life joy (ha) but, as Crowley would say, "I'm baCK". *twirls*

4. what is (if you read) your favorite good omens longfic? (I'm answering this because you asked for fics... Take this as a bonus).

I believe I can read and reread "Stalwart Sun, Wily Moon" time and time again, it is one hell of an AU. "Too Wise To Woo Peaceably" is probably one of my "post S2" favorites (the way Muriel acts in that fic is my absolute headcanon).

5. what is (if you read) your favorite good omens one-shot?

I am the worst at reading one-shots, I'm always craving for more 🙈 However, the collections of ficlets that evolve into a whole new mythology written by Ghostinthehouse are absolutely lovely. "Demon and Angel Professors" is a total must-read. As a faitful admirer of the works of Feral but Fluffy, Give a Man a Mask is also a very, very delightful work.

6. who is your favorite side character?

From the book and season 1, I believe it is Madame Tracy. She is adorable and so, so happy to go with the flow with every shenanigan that happens... From season 2, I'm very partial to Muriel, who is a literal angel.

Thanks for playing!!! I love this sort of thing!

[kiwiana-writes]

1 and 6 for the latest ask game 😘

1. What part of the writing process is the most enjoyable?

When it's posted and I can move the GDoc from my WIP folder into my Posted folder 🤣

But also, that REALLY satisfying moment when a part that's been bothering me finally slides into place. Whether it's been a scene I've been imagining but struggling to find the words for finally flowing, or landing on the perfect metaphor, or thinking up a plot point/way to resolve a problem, that A-HA! moment is so fucking good.

6. Describe what you do and your feelings after posting a chapter. (For example: When do you usually post a fic/chapter update? How do you celebrate a posting? Are you the type to refresh constantly?, etc.)

I tend to post a fic/chapter right before I go to bed (although, fun fact, I actually started posting actor AU chapters earlier partway through to accommodate @cricketnationrise's work schedule cause she was one of my most stalwart supporters of that fic early on before it picked up steam lol). I'm a night owl on NZ time, which means 'right before I go to bed' is early morning for the US—the east coast is starting their work days and the west coast is getting close to waking up lol—and mid-afternoon for Europe. This (mostly) stops me refreshing constantly, because I know I'll wake up to a stack of comments which is always SUCH a lovely feeling. I don't know that I really 'celebrate' a posting other than ticking 'posted' on the WIP table of my writing tracker so all my sexy Airtable stats update hahaha.

[The Happy Fic Writer Ask Game]

[maple-moose-muffin]

I'm back on this hell site, this time with organizational skills. So I've gathered all my fics into one masterpost, and I'll work to keep it updated for easy reference, including when I abandon a series or put it on hiatus. Warning: Some of these fics are NSFW.

Fire Emblem

Swiped Right Into My Heart 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | ? T, 31.7k words, Sylvain/Felix | Sylvix, fake dating, catfishing au In-progress Needing a date, Felix steals Dimitri's photos to prove a point, and Sylvain falls for it hook, line, and sinker. But once the catfish is out of the bag, can Sylvain navigate the murky waters of fake-dating to get the man he really wants? Or will he catch something worse than a catfish: Feelings.

Nickels and Dimes 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 T, 16.1k words, Felix-centric, modern au, humor Complete Ingrid bets Felix he can't live on a layman's budget. Felix will do everything in his power to prove her wrong. Even if it means extreme couponing.

Laurel and Wreathed 1 | 2 | 3 | ? M, 22.9k words, Felix/Sylvain/Ingrid | Sylvixgrid, Hanahaki AU Hiatus The first time Sylvain hears the term ‘hanahaki,’ he’s in the Garreg Mach library, talking literature with Ashe.

Voltron: Legendary Defender

Lover (un)binding 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 T, 33.9k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Fae and Witch AU, Flowers Complete Keith is one of the last guardians of his little forest, tasked with protecting the villagers just south from darker fae who would aim to harm them. Shiro is a mysterious stranger who appears one crisp autumn morning in a forest clearing, with a full cottage and a garden that's bursting with dangerously sweet flowers. Keith needs to know what Shiro's hiding under his single black glove, and Shiro needs Keith to trust him.

Genshin Impact

Candleflame in the Rainstorm, Seedless Dandelion Head E, 7.2k words, Diluc/Jean | Jealuc, Top Jean, Bottom Diluc Time and again, Diluc shows up at her door, searching for a way out of his head.

Fire Emblem

Draw Your Swords T, 2k words, Sylvain & Ingrid, CF!Sylvain, Gronder Field Sylvain and Ingrid meet at Gronder Field.

Of The Covenant T, 2k words, Sylvain & Ingrid, Blood Oaths, Injury Treating After taking hits for each other on the battlefield, Sylvain and Ingrid argue about self-sacrifice.

Sixteen by Seven, Eight by Eight T, 2.9k words, Sylvain/Felix | Sylvix, Post-Blue Lions Route As Enbarr falls, Felix looks for Sylvain.

With Words (I Thought I'd Never Speak) T, 7.9k words, Sylvain/Felix | Sylvix, Post-War, Grayro Sylvain Felix and Dimitri are carving their own paths now. Ashe and Ingrid too – soon to be formally knighted, once Fhirdiad is healthy enough to bear the brunt of a formal ceremony. Byleth continues to lead the charge and make history from her new position as archbishop. Dedue stays stalwart at His Majesty’s side, but even that is a choice he’s made for himself. The further north they press, the less control Sylvain has over his own life. Are you afraid? he doesn’t ask Felix. Couldn’t take it if Felix answered, No.

all the bones that i knew T, 4.1k words, Sylvain/Felix | Sylvix, Emotional Hurt/Comfort Sylvain and Felix return to the old vacation home they once shared with Glenn, Dimitri, and Ingrid. Memories lay waiting in the dust.

Catalyst T, 4.2k words, Felix & Ingrid & Sylvain, mid-time skip, trio study Audio Version Available Felix, Ingrid, and Sylvain reunite and decide their place in the war.

Silent Devotion M, 2.4k words, Sylvain/Felix | Sylvix, Non-Graphic Smut, Fluff Sylvain is almost silent any time he cums. Felix wants to know why.

Voltron: Legendary Defender

Stolen Time T, 5.4k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Soulmate Counter AU, 5+1 Five times Keith and Shiro's wrists counted each others' days, and one time they didn't.

Shelter Through the Storm T, 3k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Angst, Blood, Panic Attacks After Keith makes his first kill he can't get the sound and taste and feel of it out of his head. At least Shiro is there for him.

Renaissance G, 3.6k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Allura/Lance | Allurance After the war, Team Voltron reunites for a celebratory night together on the anniversary of the war's end. It's a time to rejoice, reconnect, and relax. So Hunk suggests they play a game.

The Kind of Love I've Been Dreaming Of E, 4.4k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Bottom Shiro, D/s, Sub Shiro In which Shiro finally gets to sub and Keith realizes how much he likes Domming.

Unsound This Alarm [Mercury] T, 20.2k words, Keith centric, pre-canon, the fallout of Kerberos It takes Keith one minute to disrupt the assembly, two weeks to get booted from the Garrison, and five months to track down the source of the constant dreams plaguing his grieving nights in the desert. Something is calling his name from the cliffs out in the sands. He feels it in his pulse, in his mind, in his bones, and all signs point back to the man he lost to the stars.

Starlight Eclipse E, 29k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Author Shiro, Artist Keith Takashi Shirogane is a three time bestselling author, and the Romance King of LGBT+ literature. Keith Kogane is a freelance artist of various mediums, working with an illustration agency to make ends meet. No one knows they're together, and they'd like to keep it that way.

Loyalty or Death T, 4.8k words, Acxa & Keith, Past Acxa/Lotor, character study After Acxa saves the paladins by chance from Zethrid and Ezor’s ship, she isn’t sure what to expect. They could turn her away for all the harm she caused, and she’d be deserving of that. Or they could enter a wary truce, with the caveat that she must feed them any information she has on the Empire. She never would have imagined they’d welcome her into their ships, or that the leader of Voltron himself would unearth just how much Lotor meant to her. Still means, much to her chagrin.

Some Kind of Home G, 2k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Krolia, healing, Post-VLD Out in the desert, under the warm rays of the rising sun, a family rebuilds their home.

Retrograde G, 5.6k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Pre-Kerberos, hurt/comfort Late one night, past curfew, Keith comes to Shiro with a request. “There’s somewhere in the desert I want to go.”

First Flush of Morning M, 2.5k words, Allura/Lance | Allurance, Aftercare, Tender D/s Lance and Allura share a soft moment in the afterglow of a special first. Even amidst the rolling tides of war, there is room for insecurity, exploration, intimacy, and above all else, love. Pt. 1 of Ebb and Flow of the Sea

Hush of the Tides E, 4.5k words, Allura/Lance | Allurance, Intimacy, Praise, D/s Lance and Allura share an intimate moment in the confines of her royal bedchambers, tucked away from the war that ravages their lives. Pt. 2 of Ebb and Flor of the Sea

Vacuity T, 2.2k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Hurt/Comfort, Melancholy When Shiro is lost at sea, Keith is there to show him the way home.

Like Opposite Faces of a Blade G, 4k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Hades Persephone AU In which Keith is a god who makes everything grow and Shiro is a god who takes away all life. Curiosity killed the cat, but satisfaction brought it back. Or in this case, heartache.

Gemini G, 1.7k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Pre-Kerberos, Stargazing Spread out in a private corner of the Garrison campus, Shiro and Keith share small kernels of themselves beneath a welcoming blanket of stars.

Recovery G, 1.5k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Space Flu, Hurt/Comfort Shiro recovers from the Space Flu™. Keith worries too much.

Exclusive TV Offer M, 2.5k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Post-VLD, Humor, Comfort Shiro discovers a late night sex toy infomercial, and is equal parts baffled by society and filled with morbid curiosity. Keith makes fun of him.

Voltron: Legendary Defender

A Fragment of Destiny T, 7k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, Slow Burn, Fantasy AU The tiefling tosses his head. “Chivalry like that’ll just get you killed.” He says it with an air that says he thinks Shiro’s the type to willingly sacrifice his life before his honor. Like he’s seen that kind before. Shiro isn’t the sort of knight to live only by a code of manners, though. He has a duty and a mission, an end goal. “If my life were in danger, I’d have drawn the blade.”

Titanium Brand M, 66.5k words, Shiro/Keith | Sheith, One-sided Allura/Shiro Caught in a relationship purgatory, Shiro finds that while absence makes the heart grow fonder, it certainly doesn’t fix any of its problems. Stumbling upon Keith in a bar on a Wednesday night is like tugging on a loose thread of a worn-out sweater, and soon everything begins to unravel. [In which Shiro is married, but things are failing, and Keith is unwittingly the other woman.]

Fire Emblem

Cobblestone Flowers M, 4.6k words, Dorothea/Ingrid | Dorogrid, Friends to Lovers Angst, What Are We Ingrid is still blushing, not quite meeting Dorothea’s eyes as she fidgets with the rim of her teacup. She looks like she’s trying to find the right words to say something, mouth parted just the tiniest bit on a sentence she hasn’t started. And then her words sink in, and Dorothea blinks, swallowing against the shudder in her chest. “What are you saying, then?”

[heywoodsays]

FIFA World Cup 2022: Round of 16 Predictions

It’s been a different kind of World Cup so far — and that’s an understatement. While one always expects some upsets and some thrilling finishes, we’ve had more than our fair share of surprises and drama.

Africa had its best ever group stage with 7 wins. The warm climate of Qatar may be a factor. Two African teams have advanced this year; none advanced in Russia 4 years ago. Europe is less represented in this knockout stage than it was last time around. And while South America sent five teams to the knockout stages at the 2014 tournament in Brazil, only two have survived this time.

Favorites Brazil and Argentina are through, despite losses to Cameroon and Saudi Arabia respectively. Defending champions France also have a blemish on their record, but are through nonetheless. Regular contenders such as Spain, Portugal, the Netherlands, and England are also through.

But stalwarts like Germany, Belgium, and Uruguay could not manage to make it out of the group stage this year. Mexico failed to reach the knockout stages for the first time since 1978. Dark horse favorites Denmark couldn’t make an impact. Instead, surprise performances by Japan, Korea, and Morocco stole the show.

It’s truly a “world” tournament:

Europe - 8

South America - 2

Africa - 2

Asia - 2

CONCACAF - 1

Oceania - 1 (though they play in the Asian confederation)

Still, based on the matchups, I suspect the quarterfinals will end up looking as they normally do. Here’s how I think things will pan out…

🇳🇱 Netherlands vs. ��🇸 USA

History The Dutch and Americans have met five times, but never in a competitive match. Of the five friendlies, the Dutch have won four. But the U.S. won the most recent contest 4-3 in Amsterdam in 2015.

Qatar 2022 Neither of these teams have looked great so far. Despite going undefeated in the group stage, the Dutch have underperformed. They benefited from being in the easiest group and yet struggled against Ecuador. The Americans, on the other hand, fought their way through a group that included England and two other teams comparable to them in the FIFA world rankings. And while they demonstrated grit in their must-win match against Iran, they never quite managed to show enough quality to defeat a top-flight team.

But there are rumors about the flu making its way through the Dutch team. I don’t think this will be one of the more exciting matchups, but I fancy the Oranje to come away with a narrow win. The Netherlands is undefeated in their last 18 matches, winning 13 of them. The U.S. win against Iran is their only victory in their last 6 games. This U.S. team is still young and has very little World Cup experience. Such experience counts for something in the playoff rounds.

Prediction: 🇳🇱 NED 1 🇺🇸 USA 0

🇦🇷 Argentina vs. 🇦🇺 Australia

History These teams last played each other in a friendly 15 years ago. Australia has not defeated Argentina since 1988. In 7 contests, Argentina has 5W, 1D, 1L. This will be their first World Cup Finals meeting.

Qatar 2022 Kudos to the Socceroos for impressive wins over both Tunisia and dark horse favorites Denmark! They even came out strong in their opener against France, before finally bowing to them after a 4–1 thrashing.

I think that’s exactly what’s going to happen again against Argentina. While La Albiceleste revealed weaknesses in their stunning loss to Saudi Arabia, they showed their mettle in wins against Mexico and Poland. (The loss to the Saudis is their only defeat in their last 39 contests, dating back to 2019.) This team is now starting to click again and should be in top form to ward off any challenge from the pesky Aussies.

Prediction: 🇦🇷 ARG 3 🇦🇺 AUS 0

🇫🇷 France vs. 🇵🇱 Poland

History France has the historic edge in this contest, with 8W, 5D, 3L. Their only previous World Cup meeting was a thrilling third-place playoff in 1982 from which Poland emerged victorious, 3-2. But France has been the better team since then.

Qatar 2022 France’s B-team suffered a 1-0 loss to Tunisia, but have otherwise been perhaps the best squad of the tournament so far. Their midfield has been on point, and Mbappé has been shining. There were some questions about this team, given their Round of 16 exit from the Euros, and recent losses to Denmark and Croatia. But France have come to play and appear poised to make a good run at defending their title.

It’s hard to see Robert Lewandowski’s Poland overcoming the depth and skill of this French squad. While the French have shown vulnerabilities in their defense (they have conceded in each game), their offensive prowess is simply too much for Poland. Les Bleus should walk away with this one.

Prediction: 🇫🇷 FRA 2 🇵🇱 POL 0

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 England vs. 🇸🇳 Senegal

History These two nations have never met in international football. But England has an impressive record against African competition — undefeated in all 20 games they’ve played against African nations. By contrast, Senegal have a 6-5-5 record against European teams, most recently losing to the Dutch in the group stage.

Qatar 2022 The Three Lions looks difficult to beat. If Rashford, Kane, and Saya are on their game, and a spritely Foden can make an impact coming off the bench, they should be able to score a healthy amount. But their goalless draw against the USA was a sign that this team could be stifled if faced with an opponent who wants it enough.

Senegal is Africa’s highest-ranked team, but with their star striker (Sadio Mané) out for the tournament, their path forward is a little more challenging. I’m not sure the energy from their exciting win over Ecuador will be enough to overpower or withstand one of the best squads England has sent to the World Cup in years.

Prediction: 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 ENG 3 🇸🇳 SEN 1

🇯🇵 Japan vs. 🇭🇷 Croatia

History Japan and Croatia have squared off three times before, with each team winning once and the other match in a draw. A 1997 match in Japan saw the home side victorious, but a 1998 World Cup meeting in France went to the Europeans. Their 2006 World Cup fixture in Germany ended goalless.

Qatar 2022 The Samurai Blue have been one of the most delightful surprises of this tournament. Their stunning upsets of both Spain and Germany en route to win their challenging group places them as one of the top teams of the tournament. But can their grit and determination be enough to push them past Luka Modrić and a skilled, scrappy Croatia team that were runners-up at the last World Cup?

Get ready for this to be one of the more exciting matches of the Round of 16. Both teams play with an urgency, especially when pushed. As soon as one team takes the lead, they’ll fight to tie it up. I might not usually expect Japan to put more than one into the Croatian net, but they’ve already done that against better teams. Sadly, I think their luck will run out against the more experienced Croatians.

Prediction: 🇯🇵 JPN 1 🇭🇷 CRO 1 (wins on penalties)

🇧🇷 Brazil vs. 🇰🇷 Korea Republic

History Brazil and South Korea have squared off in seven international matches, mostly friendlies. Korea has just one triumph, a 1-0 win in 1999. When the two teams faced off just six months ago, Brazil won 5-1. Neymar netted two in that game.

Qatar 2022 Like France and Portugal, Brazil rested their star players for their final group match and paid the price. But even Brazil’s reserves should have done better. A key issue for the team has been finishing. They need Neymar’s creativity to get their strikers in the best positions. There’s no reason the likes of Richarlison, Gabriel Jesus, Vini Jr., and Raphina shouldn’t be racking up goals.

The Koreans were able to best Portugal’s B-squad to secure their place in the Round of 16, knocking out Uruguay in the process. But other than that, their play has not provided much to suggest that they can beat The Seleção. It seems near impossible to score against Brazil’s top 11. They’ve recorded clean sheets in 22 of their last 32 games. In fact, they didn’t even surrender a shot on goal for the first two group stage matches. If Neymar is healthy, I think we should be prepared to see the Samba Kings break out at last.

Prediction: 🇧🇷 BRA 3 🇰🇷 KOR 0

🇲🇦 Morocco vs. 🇪🇸 Spain

History Spain and Morocco faced off in the group stages at the 2018 World Cup. That match ended in a 2-2 draw, with Spain netting an equalizer in the 90th minute. Their only two other meetings came in World Cup qualifying in 1961. Spain won both.

Qatar 2022 La Roja were the early stars of the tournament after their 7-0 thumping of Costa Rica. But a draw against a lackluster Germany and a loss to Japan have tempered expectations. Morocco, on the other hand, has been one of the most consistent teams at the tournament, even defeating the second-ranked Belgians.

But this is only Morocco’s second trip to the Round of 16, and first since 1986. This Spain team has valuable experience in high-stakes tournaments. They also have exciting young players like Gavi to bring a renewed energy as well. Looking at Spain’s pacing, control, and penchant for possession, it’s hard to see Morocco extending their brilliant run. But I wouldn’t count them out. This one could head to extra time or even penalties.

Prediction: 🇪🇸 ESP 3 🇲🇦 MAR 2

🇵🇹 Portugal vs. 🇨🇭 Switzerland

History One of two all-European battles in the Round of 16, there’s a lot of history between these two teams. The Swiss have a slight edge with 11W, 5D, 9L. The two have seen each other twice this year in the UEFA Nations League, with Portugal winning 4-0 in Lisbon and Switzerland winning 1-0 in Geneva.

Qatar 2022 Portugal joined France and Brazil as the only teams to secure their second-round berths after two games. They made several changes to their lineup against South Korea, ultimately costing them the match. But prior to that, the Portuguese looked strong — fighting off Ghana and controlling play against Uruguay.

Switzerland is much more comfortable with a slow, defensive style of play. They’re a team that ekes out 1-0 and 2-1 victories. (Their 3-2 win against Serbia was their first time scoring more than 2 goals in over a year.) But as Brazil was able to dictate the flow of their game against the Swiss, I suspect Portugal’s offense will do the same. But don’t count the Swiss out. They were still able to hold mighty Brazil to one goal, so Portugal will have their work cut out for them. I think Ronaldo and his team will prevail, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they had to go through extra time or penalties to do so.

Prediction: 🇵🇹 POR 2 🇨🇭 SUI 1

No upsets?

I realize that, in each case, I’ve predicted the favored team will win. While I really do think these are the most likely outcomes given how the teams have played so far and their histories, this is the World Cup, and there’s bound to be a surprise or two (or three). If an upset is to happen, here’s who I think is most likely to do it.

Most likely upsets

USA (16) over Netherlands (8)

Japan (24) over Croatia (12)

Morocco (22) over Spain (7)

Switzerland (15) over Portugal (9)

Senegal (18) over England (6)

Poland (26) over France (4)

Korea Rep (28) over Brazil (1)

Australia (38) over Argentina (3)

[zibdigitalahmd]

6 Digital Marketing Trends to Watch in 2024

Hey there, savvy marketers! Wondering what's cooking in the digital marketing landscape for 2024? Buckle up because we're about to dive into the hottest trends shaping the online realm. 

From cutting-edge technologies to game-changing strategies, this year promises an Ahmedabad Digital Marketing Agency extravaganza.

 Imagine riding the wave of AI-driven personalization or exploring the realms of immersive experiences. 

It's not just about staying ahead; it's about riding the crest of innovation. 

So, grab your virtual surfboards as we navigate through the six digital marketing trends that are set to redefine the way we connect, engage, and captivate audiences in 2024. 

Ready to stay ahead of the curve?

Let's roll! 

Trend #1: Optimizing for SGE and AI Platforms

The AI revolution is upon us, reshaping how we seek and consume information online. While Google still dominates with a 90% market share, the future might see a shift. 

Imagine a scenario where personal AI assistants curate and summarize information for us, sidelining traditional search engines. Google is already experimenting with this through SGE - Search Generative Experience. 

SGE utilizes AI to provide direct, curated answers at the top of search results, including visual content like images and videos. Websites need to adapt to image optimization for improved visibility in SGE citations. 

This trend marks a shift towards a future where AI, visuals, and content diversity take center stage.

Trend #2: Diversifying Beyond the Publisher Model

The traditional publisher model, thriving on free content monetized through ads and sponsorships, is facing a crisis. AI-generated content floods the internet, challenging the uniqueness of information. To stand out:

- Develop a unique value proposition that AI cannot replicate.

- Humanize content with personal stories and experiences.

- Build a social media presence to showcase authenticity.

- Transition from being an information sharer to offering original insights.

- Recipe bloggers may fare better due to the personal and experiential nature of their content.

Brands must shift focus from content to building a resilient brand strategy with the help of an Ahmedabad digital marketing agency, especially with the impending loss of third-party cookies impacting targeted advertising.

Trend #3: The Rise of Social Media SEO?

A revolutionary concept is emerging - the potential rise of social media SEO. Short-form content from platforms like Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts is increasingly appearing in Google's organic search results. 

Mastering social media SEO involves optimizing content for search engines, a relatively uncharted territory compared to traditional blogging SEO. 

Strategies include targeted content creation, analyzing ranking factors, and constant experimentation. 

This trend represents an exciting new market in digital marketing, combining the power of SEO to elevate the reach of social media content.

Trend #4: Email Marketing Becomes Popular Again

In the ever-changing digital landscape, email marketing stands as a stalwart, consistently proving its worth. 

Unlike platforms dependent on algorithms, emails land directly in subscribers' inboxes, offering a personal touch based on their actions and interests. 

Building exclusively on external platforms poses risks, making an email list a safety net for direct communication. 

With upcoming Gmail changes in 2024, domain authentication and engagement have become crucial for success. Email marketing is not just surviving; it's thriving, serving as a direct line to the audience in the most personalized way possible.

Trend #5: Personalization and Good User Experience Matter More Than Ever

Digital marketing is tilting towards personalization and improved user experiences. Google's initiatives in personalization, coupled with the rise of email marketing as a personalization powerhouse, underscore the importance of catering to specific audience needs. 

Website user experience, highlighted by Google's emphasis on site speed and minimal ad interference, has become a growing priority. 

Building a brand-driven website experience and leveraging tools for website personalization are key strategies in this era. 

As trends evolve, a relentless focus on personalization and user experience will open new avenues for connection and conversion.

Trend #6: More People Will PAY for Information They Trust

In a sea of generic content, a significant shift is occurring - more people are willing to pay for access to information they trust. The rise of paid subscriptions for exclusive content, often adopting the gated content model, offers content creators new revenue streams. 

Specialized knowledge becomes invaluable in an age where AI commodifies general information. 

Content creators embracing this shift recognize the worth of their unique insights and offer deeper, exclusive content for a paying audience. The trend toward paying for trusted information is a testament to the value of quality over quantity.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, these six digital marketing trends for 2024 highlight the dynamic nature of the industry. 

From optimizing for AI platforms to the rise of social media SEO, email marketing's resurgence, the emphasis on personalization and user experience, and the growing willingness to pay for trusted information – digital marketing agencies must stay adaptive and innovative.

As we navigate through these trends, let's ride the wave of change together with the help of the Ahmedabad digital marketing agency, ensuring digital marketing strategies align with the evolving landscape.

If you found this post insightful, consider sharing it with a friend. Thank you for riding the digital marketing wave with us!

[sloth-artstudio]

Another vote, let's do this!

Reminder: REBLOG OR COMMENT WITH YOUR VOTE! LIKING THE POST IS NOT VOTING!!

((AN: Two of these options involves @lopsushi 's AU.))

1). Baby Wukong and Baby Macaque with their moms.

2). Mpreg Macaque/Shadowpeach fluff

3). MK as the new Monkey King.

4). King Macaque vs. Yandere Wukong.

5). Stalwart Generals & King group photo.

6). Mei-Yue and Yan Hao with BT! Macaque.

[holycatsandrabbits]

Part 12 of Giant Post of Completed Good Omens Human AU’s: March 2022

Thank you to all the creators who bring us so much joy AND to the readers who support the creators! <3

New! A searchable list of all of my Good Omens human AU recs.

More of my Completed Good Omens Human AU Recs on Tumblr

More Good Omens recs from me here: Dannye's fic recs and

Dannye's artist recs

And here's me: Ao3 ~ DannyeChase.com ~ Linktree

**************

Series: (not all of these series are complete)

Blood and Bones by @candyqueenblog (Ao3 CandyQueenAO3) Rated T-M (Serial killer C & doctor A)

Fight Me? by SadieKat Rated T-E (Patient C & nurse A)

Ineffable Femslash February 2021 by @miss-minnelli (Ao3 miss_minnelli) Rated G-M (series contains multiple Ineffable wives human AUs: (1. Midwife C & nun A in an AU based on the TV show Call the Midwife; 2. C & A run into each other on the sidewalk-- literally; 3. C & A are prisoners in an AU based on the TV show Orange is the New Black; 4. C & A are shipwrecked; 5. A is engaged to Gabriel; 6. Tattoo artist C and client A are ex-lovers; 7. C & A are married with kids; 8. Makeup artist C & actress A; 9. C is neighbor to single mom A; 10. C & A are girlfriends on a road trip; 11. C searches for A after her bookshop burns down; 12. C & A meet in a therapist's waiting room; 13. C & A are high school students; 14. C & A meet after having a long-distance relationship; 15. FBI agent C and scientist A in an AU based on the TV show Bones; 16. C & A are roommates)

stalwart sun, wily moon (Heist AU), @dustandhalos (Ao3 dustnhalos) Rated T-M (art thief C and former Head Conservator of the British Museum A)

The Cottage a Home by @tarekgiverofcookies (Ao3: Tarek_giverofcookies) Rated G-M (C & A are housemates)

The Squire's Wife by @copperplatebeech (Ao3 CopperBeech) rated G-E Previously rec'd fic, now a series (Flute player C and bassoonist A are in a small-town orchestra)

Wool You Be Mine (Medieval Arranged Marriage AU) by @ack-emma (Ao3 ack_emma) Rated G-E (Antoinetta Crowley and Aziraphale Fell are best friends from rival wool merchant families)

Z A Dusk's Sweet and Fluffy Human AUs by @zadusk (Ao3 Z A Dusk (snakeandmoon)) Previously rec'd series with a new fic. Rated G-E (1. C & A are food bloggers; 2. C & A meet at the state fair; 3 & 4. C & A are van-lifers; 5. restaurant owner C and his neighbor A)

Single Fics:

A Case of Mistaken Identity by @candyqueenblog (Ao3 CandyQueenAO3) 7966 words, Rated T (Nanny Ashtoreth and Francis the gardener)

A Christmas Omen by @candyqueenblog (Ao3 CandyQueenAO3) 10,475 words, Rated T (C as Scrooge and A as the Ghost of Christmas Past in an AU based on A Christmas Carol)

All In An Assistant’s Day by @cinnabarmint 1537 words, Rated T (A & C pine for each other, narrated by Eric)

Alone But Not Lonely by @mimsynims 1713 words, Rated G (Patron C & librarian A)

An Oddly Mesmerizing Display by @zehwulf 28,888 words, Rated E (Omega C bids on Alpha A at a charity heat auction)

Black Mackerel by @phoenix-soar (Ao3 phoenix_soar) 1351 words, Rated T (C & A are K-pop artists)

Butcher Cut by @waldosakimbo 886 words, Rated T (Hastur & Ligur are criminals)

Capellini d'Angelo by AngeliqueTombee 95,187 words, Rated E (chef C and reservationist A work at a restaurant)

Casual by @unproblematicme 6477 words, Rated E (C & A are ex-lovers)

Change by @just-an-angel-and-his-demon (Ao3 KaytheJay) 2404 words, Rated G (C is married to A, who is experimenting with a different gender identity)

Ducklings and Toys by @saretton 2359 words, Rated T (Toymaker C & kindergarten teacher A)

Fledging by FeralTuxedo 53,381 words, Rated M (C & A are single dads)

Hanging By a Moment by @naromoreau 5502 words, Rated E (C & A are college students)

Hell Has a Place For Those Who Sin by @tawnyontumblr (Ao3 TawnyOwl95) 7136 words, Rated E (Married woman C & young man A in an AU based on the movie The Graduate)

I Have A Banana by AppleSeeds 1994 words, Rated M (C & A meet in a bar)

(I'll be your) Home for the Holidays by @melibemusca (Ao3 Melibe) 995 words, Rated T (Beelzebub and Gabriel are best friends in a Hallmark Christmas movie AU)

Love and Lace by @dietraumerei (Ao3 die_traumerei) 4355 words, Rated E (Ineffable wives: C is best friends with burlesque dancer A)

Love For Sale by ranguvar82 28,934 words, Rated E (sex worker C and aristocrat A)

Loving is Easy by @tawnyontumblr (Ao3 TawnyOwl95) 594 words, Rated M (C & A have a one-night stand)

Maybe Next Christmas by @flamingbentleyy (Ao3 crepesandoysters) 21,342 words, Rated T (old college friends C & A meet in an airport)

Mutual Benefits by @phoenix-soar (Ao3 phoenix_soar) 5818 words, Rated E (Businessman C plays sugar daddy to bookshop owner A)

Our Little Future, We Love You by @christocentricqueer and @just-an-angel-and-his-demon (Ao3 KaytheJay) 105,551 words, Rated E (Trans woman C and trans man A have a baby together)

over and over and over again by @naromoreau 6339 words, Rated T (C & A are soulmates)

Pages And Petals: A Love Story by ranguvar82 28,045 words, Rated E (C moves to librarian A's small town)

Special Delivery by @janara7 (Ao3 LCwrites) 500 words, Rated M (C & A are neighbors with mixed up mail)

Stormy Omens by @holycatsandrabbits / Dannye Chase self-rec! 5497 words, Rated T (Meteorologist C and librarian A in a disaster movie AU)

Striking Chords by @ambrasue (Ao3 Ambra_Sue) 29,176 words, Rated M (C & A are country musicians)

Talk about it - as normal people do by @angelsnuffbox (Ao3 angelsnuffbox (MrsCaulfield)) 4530 words, Rated M (C & A are best friends)

Tender (adjective, verb, noun) by @ineffablefool 495 words, Rated G (C & A are best friends)

The Constancy of Stars by AppleSeeds 14,120 words, Rated T (Astrophysicist C and bookseller A)

The Past And A Present by @yoites-good-omens-blog (Ao3 Yoite) 500 words, Rated M (Sex worker C and birthday boy A)

The Priest and the Footballer by AppleSeeds 5309 words, Rated T (Priest C & footballer A)

There was only one bench by Joseph_Amadeus 2498 words, Rated E (C & A meet at the park)

to make much of time by @waywarder 2629 words, Rated T (C & A are high school students)

Turn of the Fates by GothRockFairy and @just-an-angel-and-his-demon (Ao3 KaytheJay) 35,283 words, Rated M (Penniless man C is helped by wealthy man A)

Viridi Dianthus by aceziraphale 2574 words, Rated E (Gardener C and bookshop owner A in the Victorian era)

wasteland, baby by @alwayscomewhenyoucall (Ao3 John1513) 45,748 words, Rated M (Mobster C and bookseller A)

When I saw you, I fell in love by @darkshadows93 800 words, Rated T (Prince C & Lord A)

Win Condition by @ineffablefool 1413 words, Rated G (C & A are in middle school)

Would you like to get a drink? by AppleSeeds 2287 words, Rated G (Customer C & supermarket cashier A)

You'd Still Crave More by @carduelis-carduelis (Ao3 tikli) 2428 words, Rated E (Toni and Mr. Fell have an arrangement for sex work)

You're Just a Little Under Rehearsed by @one-with-the-floor (Ao3 MickyRC 53,369 words, Rated T (Community theater director C and pianist A)

[felineechoes]

Stone Rebirth AU Masterpost

The Fanfiction

Chapters

Chapter 1: A Hero Reborn From Stone

Chapter 2: Aftermath

Chapter 3: Oh, Look! The Consequences of My Actions and Inactions

Chapter 4: Stirring Weather

Chapter 5: Echoes of the Past

Chapter 6: Confusion and Kidnapping

Chapter 7 : Macaque [Will be rewritten at some point]

Art

Full Monkie MK Reference

Vent Art

Owl House Inspired Sketches

Stalwart Generals

About the AU

[good-rwbyaus]

The Church of Weiss Schnee

Alt name(s): Weiss’s Accidental Cult, Maid Ruby AU.

A disowned Weiss who never became a Huntress gets a cult in her name. It’s Ruby’s fault. A premise and a bunch of loosely-connected pieces. Still in the canon universe…probably. Not sure where to go from here. This is the last long bit of my reserve and probably the most exciting bit so far. Hope you enjoy! - lilac

[ first ] [ prev ]

6. Blaspheme

Outside of the cult, Weiss has a poor reputation in Mantle due to her employee rules. And the people who failed to be hired have spread the word. Most think Weiss is exploiting the Faunus - which most big companies give a nod too as they think she's maintaining the status quo.

The White Fang ironically is in the know to some degree - but is not given more information than 'she's not exploiting us. all hail our lord and savior.' Given that it's a Schnee heading this group, the Fang is naturally concerned about what's making her people so fanatically loyal - mind control semblance? something in the water? blackmail?

After the first couple of people were sent to try and join the cult, the White Fang is convinced that Weiss Schnee is a highly charismatic, experienced cult leader and that any further attempts at infiltration will lead to the White Fang losing more members. Therefore, they've taken a wait and see approach to this new power in Mantle.

Because of the so-called "desperation" test, Weiss's group is pretty solid in terms of keeping the secret that they're doing pretty well - and Weiss is blissfully unaware that she has a cult in her name as she works on her next concert.

-----

Sadly, even when all your people are loyal, when a secret gets too big, people can infer things for themselves. As Weiss's cult grew larger, people are wondering why those people are sticking around as long as they did; if you're getting badly paid - and having worse conditions than the SDC, the most logical thing to do is quit when you find a better job, but Weiss's small mall always had a 100% retention rate, and what's more - the people inside always looked happy.

Some suspect that their pay is higher than expected, maybe not enough to completely offset the horrible conditions - but certainly more than what the SDC pays. No one doubted that Weiss was exploiting her workers: Weiss was a Schnee after all; exploiting people was in her blood. Greedy eyes locked onto the potential fortune that could be hidden within.

Thus, one day, a very loud voice roared outside the mall. "Weiss Schnee! Come out here now!"

The men and women inside the mall poked their heads out, and noticing the large gang outside, began taking out their own weapons from behind the counters.

"Who are you?" Aqua, now the Grand Priestess of the Church of Weiss, growled out, holding a scimitar in her hands. The rest of their group held their weapons, ready to defend their home.

"I'm the leader of Steel Fist!" the bald, stalwart man bashed his chest with his closed hand, "And we heard there's a company in Mantle not paying its protection fees. It'd be a shame if something were to happen it. Heh heh." The rest of his gang laughed as well, but there was a hint of apprehensiveness in their humor.

After all, what sort of company armed their employees with Dust-powered weapons??!

"Don't need your stinking protection. You're trespassing on Chur- Schnee Mall grounds," Aqua yelled as she brandished her saber. "You ever think about the consequences?"

"Consequences? From a girl disowned by her family and forced to live down here with the rest of us?! Ha!" The man rushed forward, warhammer at hand.

Their weapons clashed.

Clang. Clang. Clang! Aqua growled as her newly-acquired Aura briefly flickered. All Mantle folk knew their way around a weapon, but very few unlocked their auras. And it seemed like the leader of this gang had unlocked his - and a Strength-related semblance too. Her hand was numbed from each clash, but the gangster wasn't having it easy either. For him, every slash she threw became a close brush with death, threatening to dismember or decapitate him.

Her blade slashed again towards his neck, only to be barely met by the shaft of his warhammer. Pushing back, he used his block to shove her away and gain some breathing room. Sweat dripped off his face, and he placed his hand on his neck to make sure it was unharmed. Fear quickly was replaced by anger.

"Can't believe you Faunus fell so low to serve a bitch that hates you all," the man snarled.

"Weiss Schnee is not to be bla- insulted by the likes of you!" Aqua said. The rest of their group yelled in agreement.

"Ha! Weiss Schnee is just an abandoned bitch surrounded by the rest of her kind," he crowed before spitting on the ground.

"...Clean that up."

A voice rang out from the crowd, the Faunus parting to reveal a young brunette slowly walking towards Aqua. Now, the Schnee crowd began looking sorta uneasy.

"Miss Ruby. Don't worry, I got this meathead," Aqua said anxiously, "You don't need to interv-" The maid, much younger and bit shorter than her, simply patted her head. The smile on her face gave her the chills. Aqua glanced at one of her fellow Priests and nudged her head towards Weiss's residence - he got the clue and started running.

"It's okay. I'll take care of this," Ruby gently said to her before continuing in a more irritated tone, "Hey, asshole! Did you hear what I said? Clean. That. Up."

"I wouldn't even listen to your bitch of a master, much less her maid." He spat again.

...

...

Ruby vanished into a gale of petals.

And in the next moment, everyone saw Ruby reappear right in front of the muscled man, whose eyes widened in surprise. Before he could begin to do anything, her hand gripped onto his neck, and they both vanished from sight.

Several seconds passed, neither group knowing what to do with the absence of their leaders.

And then a flurry of petals appeared once more, Ruby returning right where she had grabbed the man. The gang's leader however didn't reappear.

However, the mystery of where he went quickly revealed itself.

A sudden scream came from above, and everyone had a chance to see the gang leader in freefall before slamming into the ground right in front of Ruby. A yellow flash of shattered Aura accompanied the sickening crack of bones. Blood leaked out of the man's crushed nose, and a more astute observer would notice that his face landed right where he had previously spat.

The maid's foot stomped onto the back of the man's head, smashing his face into the concrete once more.

"I said to clean up your mess. Not make more," Ruby said with deadly calm, slowly increasing her pressure, "You are going to lick clean every loogie and blood splatter here, or you're not getting out of here alive."

A series of clicks could be heard from the gang side as people started pointing their weapons. She only glanced at them for a moment and then gave them the consideration they deserved, which is to say none. She continued shoving the man's sobbing face right into the ground.

"Hey! Get off of our leader! Or we're g-g-g-g," one of the men began to stutter, now the target of Ruby's steely-eyed gaze.

"If you shoot at me, I'll kill you all," Ruby stated quietly as she scanned the crowd, every single one of them balking as her gaze met theirs.

"Even if a single one of you is alive after a minute, I'll cut my own head off," she locked back onto the one who threatened her, "Do you believe me?"

The man was too scared to respond, legs quivering - hands unable to hold the gun properly. "I-I-I..."

Ruby stepped forward, and that single step proved to be too much for that man's courage. Dropping his weapon and screaming, he ran out of the company grounds. And just like a dam collapsing, the rest of the gang followed suit.

They all cleared out leaving dust behind. And pretty soon there was only one.

"Pl-plea-" the broken man started.

Stomp.

"Did I say you can beg for mercy? You're going to be this maid's mop until you make up for every piece of shit that came out of your mou-"

"Ruby?"

"Yes, Miss Schnee?~" As if taking off a mask, Ruby's murderous expression was instantly replaced by a genuinely happy one as she turned around. "What may I do for you today?" The girl glanced at the scroll pointed in her direction, Weiss's concerned expression right on it.

"Well, you ran off to take care of some trouble, right?"

"No. No. There's no trouble at all!" Ruby shook her head vigorously, bangs flying about, as she continued confidently, "Our neighbor here, Mister... Woodiron, had simply wanted to learn how to fly despite my constant warnings." Ruby finally noticed her foot still on the back of the man's head, "And what I'm doing now is helping him get his lost blood and fluids through the scientifically-proven oral route."

"M-Miss, h-hel-"

"Don't worry, Mister Woodiron. An ambulance will be coming soon!" Ruby said as she shoved his face back into the ground, "Just keep swallowing those lost fluids." She peeked back at the Scroll.

Weiss's image just stared dully at Ruby as if going 'please tell me another.'

"I'm sorry," Ruby lowered her head.

"You make me worry so much," Weiss sighed and shook her head, "Just...just let the idiot go and come back to me, alright?"

"Alright."

The Scroll disconnected.

She glanced over the man on the ground who nervously looked at her. Lowering herself to meet his gaze, Ruby said, "You know who to be grateful towards, right?"

"Y-y-yes."

"Who?"

"M-m-miss Schnee."

"Remember that she's the reason why I'm not dropping you from the sky a second time today."

"C-crystal."

"I'm glad to hear it," Ruby cheerfully said with a clap of her hands. She turned to Aqua and the rest, "Can one of you please take care of the trash? I have to go attend to Miss Schnee."

"Sure, Ruby. We'll handle it," Aqua said, "Don't wanna keep Miss Schnee waiting."

"Thanks," she said with a smile before disappearing into a flurry of petals.

The rest of Aqua's group glanced at the poor broken man in front of them and then at each other.

One of them mouthed the word scary, the rest nodded in agreement.

[egelantier]

Yuletide Recs

Having had two days of more or less nothing but reading fics, I come bearing recs!

First of all, my amazing gifts:

The Goblin Emperor

For Thy Principles

The nohecharei of Edrehasivar VII were unparalleled in their defense of his person, but there were limits to even their prowess. When Maia first developed the fever, Cala quickly determined that it was not the end result of a magically-based assassination attempt – and from there it had to be left to the court physicians.

Maia falls ill, and Csethiro protects him as best she can.

Beautifully gentle Maia sickfic, with Csethiro holding him together. For me all for meeee.

Benjamin January Mysteries

Dry as a Bone

“Oh. Well, I’ve been better, maestro, been a hell of a lot better to tell truth.” Shaw stared at him for a long moment, and he was stunned to see honest to God grief in his eyes. Even when Shaw had just lost his brother he had been so much more himself than this lost man currently standing before him. “Not that I mean to put anything extra on your shoulders, I’m sure you’ve got enough of your own shit going on at present moment, but it seems like I’ve just lost my job.”

Shaw loses his job, and finally confronts Ben about trust (and lack thereof) between them. It’s GREAT.

The Tarot Sequence - K.D. Edwards

A Distraction Worth Losing

They may never be together, but the gods would have to move heaven and earth to split Rune and Brand apart.

Brand, Rune and The Kiss incident. (Poor messed up babies, somebody save them.)

And fics of the collection:

17776, Astreiant, Raksura, Frederica, The Gentlemen, The Goblin Emperor, Hades, Innkeeper Chronicles, Jeeves, Kate Daniels, King Arthur the movie, My Next Life as a Villainess, Nirvana in Fire, No. 6, Psmith, The Secret Garden, The Sleuth of Ming Dynasty, Swordspoint, The Tarot Sequence, Teixcalaan Series, The Temple of the White Rat verse

17776: What Football Will Look Like in the Future

so far, so fast

When Manny gets a craving for some fancy meal he had once, over ten thousand years ago, Nick decides he’s gonna fulfill that craving, no matter how hard it is. Because real romance is about making the impossible happen for his husband.

Goddamn transcendental.

Go Get It

Sometimes you start out just planning to get some groceries with your husband, and next thing you know, you’re committing to join the most hopeless team in college football.

Nick and Manny decide to play. It’s perfect.

Afterlife

A young man dies six months before the end of human death; his loss saves five lives, which end up much longer than anyone expects. (A series of worldbuilding vignettes about original characters in the 17776 setting.)

Made me cry, in a very cathartic way.

Astreiant Series - Melissa Scott & Lisa A. Barnett

April dressed in all his trim

A quiet evening in spring.

Sweet little slice-of-life with lovely sensory details.

Books of the Raksura

The Second Consort

“When Glow arrives, be friendly and welcoming,” Ember said. “Not scary.”

“Why does everyone think I’m going to scare him?”

Chime said, “They can see your face when you look at him.” He paused, glancing over at Moon. “That face, that’s the one.”

Ember sighed. “I remember being in his position. It’s pretty nerve-wracking coming to a new court and not knowing what’s going to happen to you there - whether they’re going to welcome you or shun you, whether you’ll make new friends, whether a queen is going to claim you…” He came and put a sympathetic hand on Moon’s shoulder. “Glow is probably worried about all of those things, and missing his home and clutchmates, and it’s our job to try and help him relax.” For a moment Moon thought he was just being soft-hearted, until Ember added, “He won’t open up and tell us what’s really going on unless he’s relaxed.”

Jade takes in a new consort, on Moon’s permission, and everybody is delightfully adult about it.

Frederica

Lady Alverstoke

Frederica commences her first Season as a married woman by planning a ball, promising most straitly that her husband will have nothing whatsoever to do …

Sweet and funny slice-of-life post-happy-ending for canon.

**The Gentlemen (2019) **

Even

The week after he intercepts Fletcher, that squirrelly little cunt, outside the London Miramax office, Raymond reluctantly ventures down to Brixton.

Under normal circumstances, Raymond tends to give this part of Brixton a wide berth, but he has unfinished business that needs attending to. Of course, that doesn’t mean he has to like being accosted by the overwhelming smell of greasy fish and chips when he pushes the car door open, doesn’t mean he has to be pleased about stepping into a piece of chewed-up gum the moment he sets a foot on the kerb.

But then, he can always take a shower after an errand in Brixton. The deep-seated discomfort of unfinished business doesn’t wash off that easily.

Raymond tries to pay Coach back for saving his life, and it doesn’t quite go as planned :D

The Goblin Emperor

The Archduke’s Discovery

Prince Nemolis goes on a journey, and learns a bit more than he wanted to know.

Really great point of canon divergence, and true and precise character voices.

Hades

all the spaces between us

For a place full of the dead, crammed with ghostly shades and nothing but the endless lull of eternity unchanging, gossip sure travelled fast in the Underworld.

Or, Zagreus mulls over his relationship with Thanatos while the rest of the Underworld get overly invested.

Slow, slow, slowest of burns.

Innkeeper Chronicles - Ilona Andrews

A Quick Trip

“It’ll be a quick trip,” Maud said, more to herself than to Arland. “No one will even notice we’re gone.”

Pirates are plaguing an ally, just outside of vampire space. Maud and Arland don some aesthetically beat-up armor and try to get more information from the pirates themselves. Of course, plans only last until you meet your enemy. Or your enemy’s giant alien attack boar.

Excellent canon voice, action/adventure sprinkled with badassery and hilarity.

Jeeves & Wooster

August Thirteenth

Discovering that this is not the first August thirteenth that he’s lived through, that certainly was a head scratcher. Luckily Bertie has the stalwart presence of his man’s man, Jeeves.

Very, very great and satisfying use of the time loop.

Kate Daniels - Ilona Andrews

lookin’ like a snack (cake)

It took Barabas a while to figure it out, because he wasn’t used to not being taken seriously.

Barabas considered several ways to phrase it, and finally settled upon, “Do you have a thing for twinks?” Christopher knocked his head back against the headrest: once, then again. “Is that a yes?”

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword (2017)

When Goosefat Bill finds himself in a difficult situation, the last thing he wants is the King to show up and “help”, in his own unique and unexpected way.

Goosefat Bill does not need to be rescued by his King. But he might just enjoy it a little.

My Next Life as a Villainess (Anime)

All I Have To Bring Today

Catarina and Sophia had been discussing the latest in the Devilish Count series, and Sophia had mentioned how romantic the surprise picnic the count had planned for his lover was and how she wished for someone to surprise her like that.

“What about you, Catarina? Have you ever wished for someone to sweep you off your feet?” Sophia had asked.

Catarina makes a choice! As sweet and as hilarious as the canon.

Nirvana in Fire

Adverse Event

What a pitiful man must he have become, if the only thing he could provoke in bed was a monologue on his character flaws.

: or, the famous strategist mei changsu plays xanatos speed chess against truth serum: the fic.

Mei Changsu gets hit with an accidental truth serum; it doesn’t stop him from lying to himself, but it does buy Jingyan a clue.

Records of the Land of Xiang

There was something of Xiao Jingyan there, in the firmness of his jaw, the unforgiving slash of his brows, and most clearly in the eyes that neither saw nor conveyed deception. But Long Zhan was not Jingyan, could never be, no matter how much Changsu might wish otherwise, because Jingyan was dead.

In service to a very-much-alive Prince Qi, Jingyan dons a Jianghu-typical disguise and infiltrates the Jiangzuo Alliance to suss out this Mei Changsu fellow and see if he might be useful in helping them re-open the Chiyan conspiracy case. Basically, a slightly ridiculous premise where everyone is running around the Jianghu with masks, multiple identities, and secret agendas.

Fascinating and fun AU scenario that delves, among other things, into Mei Changsu the jianghu chef, not Sir Su the court schemer.

suffering as I suffer you

The first time Jingyan stays the night at Su Manor, he discovers an uncomfortable truth about Mei Changsu.

Excellent extrapolation of Mei Changsu’s illness into his nightly routine - with Jingyan watching…

Here, In Our Arms

With the world put to rights, however briefly, Xiao Jingyan and Mu Nihuang take the opportunity to make a fuss over their beloved Lin Shu, and will not take no for an answer.

Sweet moment of comfort.

Find the Coals Amid the Ashes

Despite Changsu’s assertions, Lin Chen is a well brought up person. He would never violate his host’s privacy during a social call. It would be inexcusable, for example, to break into a marquis’s private alchemy lab in the middle of said marquis’s birthday party, in order to search said alchemy lab for certain hard to find medicinal herbs, which one has reason to believe can be found therein. These would be the actions of a man without honour, of a man who has only desperation to his name.

Lin Chen crashes a party and makes a new friend.

The best team up ever :D

Dead Letters

Mei Changsu isn’t the only schemer in Da Liang.

Fei Liu fixes things, in the most Fei Liu way imaginable, and it’s great.

No. 6

All Good Things

In the midst of a crisis for No. 6, Nezumi returns to Shion’s side.

A reunion! And cuddling.

Psmith

The Psky Is The Limit

“As this ship’s Orator, my mission is still as it was in the beginning and shall ever be, world without end. It is to hail any message sent by comrades from outer space and pass it on to you verbatim. Well! The hour, I say, has come. The Word has come into being. Here comes Psmith, bearing news of great mirth: the intercom has spoken.”

(A Mike and Psmith Space AU)

Psmith in space! Hysterically funny Psmith in Pspace, at that.

Psmith Pops In

Psmith reached over and solicitously loosened Mike’s scarf, his fingers brushing the skin of Mike’s neck, and that young man, to his horror, felt heat creeping up from where gloved fingers brushed his bare skin. Really, this blushing nonsense was getting out of hand. Ever since Psmith had tried to take the blame in the case of the painted dog, Mike had developed an inexplicable habit of turning hot and cold around him, and these odd responses had become more and more frequent.

Very funny! And then very tragique! And then jussssst right.

The Secret Garden

The Space Garden

When Meri La Nix was sent from the Mars colony to live with her aunt at Missiles Wait Manor, nobody said she was the most disagreeable-looking child ever seen. But some of them thought it.

Beautifully inventive space retelling - with gardens, still.

The Sleuth of Ming Dynasty

The sky spinning above him

In which there’s a jewellery thief on the loose, Tang Fan plays dress up, gets a mild concussion and also a boyfriend.

Frothy, sweet, well-grounded and hot. Also hilarious (check the end note!)

truth in fiction

Three days after Wang Zhi leaves the capital, bits and pieces of his extensive library begin arriving at Sui Zhou’s house.

Sui Zhou is really committed to research and accuracy in Tang Fan’s porn. It’s delightful.

Time don’t fool me no more

“The electrician is a Tang dynasty spy,” he says, dumping some of his eggs in Tang Fan’s bowl.

Tang Fan nods, shovels more food in his mouth, and starts talking again.

Past or future, Tang Fan has Priorities. And Sui Zhou is weak.

Meeting at the End

Sui Zhou knew he never should have let Tang Fan go alone. He knew he should have gone with him.

Really, really great and desperate whump. Super satisfying.

clever boy

Tang Fan never spares a smile for any of the girls at Wang Zhi’s establishment, he’s noticed. That’s alright, though. It means Wang Zhi gets his attention for himself.

Wang Zhi falling, falling hard; it’s delightful.

a bold and brilliant sun

“You’re sure you didn’t do something to it? They don’t usually stall out,” Sui Zhou says. He looks away from Tang Fan, out the windshield at the endless rust-red of the planet.

Tang Fan pouts at this, and slumps down on the edge of the console, feet propped up at an absurd angle against the pilot’s seat. “You think I’d fake a mechanical issue just so that they’d send a sexy Fleet crewman out here to rescue me?” As soon as the words are out of his mouth, he giggles. “Okay, I would do that, but I promise that this time the problem is real.”

Space AU! Most excellent space AU condensing all there is to love about the canon in one perfect package.

Blind Taste Test

Wang Zhi invites Tang Fan to evaluate Joyous Brothel’s chefs — but it’s Tang Fan and Sui Zhou who are really being tested.

Wang Zhi, ever helpful :)

Authorial Intent

Sui Zhou and Tang Fan end up in hot water yet again. Kinky sex ensues.

Hilarious, kinky, heartfelt, and in character.

Swordspoint Series - Ellen Kushner

Chrysopoeia

It struck Alec that this would have been much easier if their positions were reversed. Richard would have known what to do if he’d been dragged back here with a hole in his gut. He was quite simply not supposed to be the one on this end of the equation. In fact, it was possible he had done something very bad to deserve this.

Richard is wounded, and Alex is coping. Excellent h/c and excellent bloodplay and sharp, painful slice of Alex’ POV, excellently rendered.

At first — this was just like him — he thought he was hearing god. But it was only the man in the bed, whose face had turned toward him on the ragged pillow.

The Tarot Sequence - K.D. Edwards

Third’s a Charm

Addam asks a favor of Brand.

Addam asks Brand for help, which ends up being exactly what Brand and Rune need.

Pretty good

Five times Brand crawls into Rune’s bed and one time Rune crawls into Brand’s.

Brand and Rune, through the years.

Teixcalaan Series - Arkady Martine

Also in the Act of Reaching

When Three Seagrass arrived at Lsel Station, she was, officially at least, traveling as a private personage. She had missed Mahit and the possibilities they’d both chosen to turn away from. She also had– would always have– a gaping hole in her life where Petal had once stood.

It was simply that, left on her own, Three Seagrass wouldn’t have let either absence drag her to the ass-end of beyond.

Reunion, metaphors and realigment. Subtle and clever and just right.

The (concept of the) World Was Wide Enough

Yskandr Aghavn comes to the world like a drowning man comes to shore, but he is living on borrowed time. Teixcalaan has so many wonderful things to choke on.

Teixcalaan has had his heart for all of his life, has elevated him, corrupted him, and discarded him.

It is Lsel that he thinks of as he dies.

Temple of the White Rat Universe - T. Kingfisher

If Grace Is Too Much

Zale is given a case by Bishop Beartongue which turns out to be more complicated and personal than a holy advocate-priest would prefer.

Clever and sweet and carefully shocking, but in a very right way.

Outreach

“We don’t generally assess the… cursédness… of objects, trees or otherwise,” Beartongue said.

Utterly delightful.

[edda-grenade]

oof ok SO

i’m most likely gonna post the nightmare fusion au fic i’ve been working on the past months this sunday (gonna take a page from my old hobbit days and repurpose an existing fanart for the banner lmao)

art-wise i have a few ideas i wanna get done in april still for the rare-egg-hunt event, we’ll see if that works out (a before/after piece relating to the song in the halls, a feral verse endgame ‘channeling stalwart hades & dread persephone‘ piece, and a little comic-esque thing for the shape of water au)

(btw if you have any preferences there, lemme know, i’m terrible at committing to shit)

and maybe that thing i posted to the spicy twitter awhile back if i can be bothered to deal with making it ~tumblr-safe~

aaaaaand feral verse fic/art combos aka the creature in the woods will probably continue in may? i’ve actually got six (6!!) drabbles that are either done or in beta, i mostly just need to do the illustrations for them. got another 3 planned/half-written, and then that collection is “complete“, i. e. it covers the arc i intended for it

don’t worry there’s like 5 more coming a ha ha

[storyweaverofgondor]

Ya know what? I’m not waiting! XD I’m going to go ahead and do that StEx OC questionnaire.

1. What is their name and gender? What pronouns do they use?: Stal, Male, He/Him

2. Are they a locomotive or a car/wagon? If they are a locomotive, what is their source of power? (Steam, diesel, electric, etc): A freight car converted into a diesel engine. a very powerful and hardy fellow.

3. Who are their friends? They can be canon or other OCs!: Poppa

4. Do they have a favourite colour?: Green and tan

5. Are they an extrovert, ambivert or introvert?: Extrovert.

6. Do they have a favourite animal?: Draft horses. He admires their strength.

7. What are their sleeping habits? Are they an early bird or a night owl?: night owl.

8. What are three adjectives to describe them?: Dedicated. Empathic. Steady.

9. Do they have a crush?: Nope

10. How did you pick their name?: Stal is short for Stalwart and it sounded trainish

11. What languages do they speak? Do they have an accent?: he sounds like Bobby Singer from Supernatural

12. What reasons do others have to like them?: he is a total parent and just gives off strong “Safe” vibes.

13. What are their flaws?: he has a bad habit of over-working himself.

14. Do they have any pet peeves?: People who don’t brush their hair before going out in public. He has a thing a wanting everyone to look presentable and is just a step away from adopting everyone.

15. Are they competitive? If they were in a race, would they play fair or cheat?: No and he always plays fair.

16. Do they have any enemies/rivals? Who are they?: None that i can think of. Maybe someone connected to his job. He relocates and rehomes trains in desperate situations so it’s possible there are some who weren’t to happy on being called out on their bad behavior.

17. How do they react to a compliment? An insult?: Like a good parent. Calmly calls out bad behavior and talks things out. If the insulting train does not cooperate they go into time out. age doesn’t matter. you go into time out.

18. What are their talents/hobbies?: He works out. He could carry Dustin like a little kid who weighs nothing.

19. What do they often fail at? Why?: Not becoming emotionally invested in the trains he helps. He’s just a big softie and can’t keep up the professionalism necessary for his job. 

20. Why did you decide to make your OC?: In my Farel Rusty AU I needed a way to get Rust from his old train yard to being in Poppa’s care. And so a social worker train was born!

@fandom-trash-goblin @hearth-goddess-99

[larimar]

5 for 6 Challenge

I was tagged by @thechesterfield

1- childhood memory

-Going to the beach with my parents and being in awe of the heat, sand and water, the smell of the flowers and beach.

2- songs

Blackbird by the Beatles and Into the Mystic

3- places you want to visit

Scotland, Kenya, Iceland, Costa Rica, the list is never ending....

4- artists

Shakespeare, Peter Gabriel, Gustav Klimt, Bono, Christopher Nolan, Eric Clapton, Roger Deakins, Ken Follett, Ridley Scott, Daniel Day-Lewis, Coldplay, Gary Oldman, Van Morrison, Kenneth Brannagh, James Joyce and countless others, not enough space on this to write them all.

5- random words

Altruism, Sentience, Ephemeral, Opalescent. Stalwart

Tagging @zara-rcb @the-summer-sun-au @akapearlofagirl @i-sat-bythe0cean

@tiliammyselfagain @twitchyrose @everydayvenus