#Exploring the toll her sacrifice takes on loved ones

[katerinadeannika]

Notes after watching the full Behind the Scenes of Agatha All Along posted on Nov 13th 2024:

There was no way they could have written an ending for Agatha that did not involve death.

I have been saying this to all the naysayers from the get-go, to all the people making posts about being done or fed up or angry about the ending, or how it makes no sense, or how they should have could have done something different and been fine story wise. The behind the scenes confirmed my point.

The main through line for the entire show was the theme of Death; of Agatha never being able to escape it. Where she both loves and hates death and Death, the concept and the woman. Where she's been running from Death for centuries, but Death came for her son and was always coming for her the second she slowed down.

Every completed trial meant someone would die. Billy created the road based off the rumors and witch lore. And the only rumors out in the witch world were that someone knew someone else's aunt/relative/friend who had undertaken the road and never returned. In reality, that was Agatha's doing. But to Billy, it meant that somehow, the Road took its toll on them. And when the coven traveled it, the Road exacted the same price that Billy expected it to. Death or near death at every trial.

The first trial killed Sharon. The second gave Alice her power back and then Billy almost died (and probably would have if Agatha hadn't pleaded with Rio on his behalf, if the coven hadn't worked together, and if Billy hadn't made the Road with his own powers. Some interesting combo of the all the above). The third trial killed Alice who was trying to save Agatha. And the fourth trial killed Lilia and the Salem Seven.

Jac said she intentionally wrote it where Death was a very real thing that everyone in the show had to come to terms with.

And for Jen Kale, her gift was already dead, and she was supposed to resurrect it and take her own power back. She escaped because after Agatha's trial, the fifth one, someone DID die.

And this time it was Agatha.

Agatha had avoided it every other time by either being saved, or having the rest of the coven as fodder for death.

But in the end, when she could have left once again, she must decide who has to pay the final price for her invention of the Road. The Road that she has used to kill and lure countless witches to their doom over the past few centuries.

She can save the boy she has come to love and mentor after the loss of her son. Or, she can leave once again. And so she makes the final moment of self sacrifice, and chooses the final victim of the Road: Herself

She has been running from Death for centuries.

For Agatha's story to have a thematic ending that wasn't cheap or manufactured, she had to stay true to that through-line. That's how writing works. You find your themes. You write about and explore them. And you have a final consequence that determines if it's a positive arc or a negative arc for your main character.

They chose for Agatha to have a positive arc. A moment of final growth. To end the show on her finally making the right decision, even at the cost of the life she's sustained through countless centuries and via countless deaths.

There was no way the show could have ended any other way.

PS: There is no excuse to hate on it. At all.

It doesn't meet any of the criteria for the 'Bury your gays' trope. It doesn't even end Agatha’s story. But it does provide expertly written, well thought out, thematically poignant endings for all the characters in a way that satisfies their personal journey—throughout the show and the centuries.

And I am so glad they made it, and that it ended how it did. I wouldn’t want it any other way. As a writer. As an editor. As a viewer. And as a lesbian.

Agatha All Along is a masterpiece in TV writing. And I can’t wait for more.

PSS: Watch the Behind the Scenes on youtube that Marvel just posted. It’s super good and includes all sorts of info to help with fic writing and just general understanding of the writing and show creation. Also lots of Kathryn Hahn and Aubrey Plaza in interviews!

TLDR: Quit complaining and griping about the ending. It was written beautifully. The reason you got so invested is because of all the heavy death elements throughout that made things mean something. Embrace it. Or find media where you were the target audience. Cause if you couldn’t handle something well written that ends like this, you weren’t the target audience. And that’s okay. But move on before you keep griping and causing issues with the community and the cast.

[ninthhousedyke]

Arcane Episode Parallels

It is gnawing at my brain how the episodes of season 2 are paralleling season 1 and it’s both amazing and terrifying because it means shit could really go down in act 3. Spoilers for season two under the cut as I explore some of these parallels!!

Episode 1:

Welcome to the Playground - we open on a great tragedy, dead parents and friends, conflict and hatred brewing, Vander carries Vi and Powder away from the tragedy to save them, a distinct act (the robbery of Jayce’s apartment) sets off the chain of events in this first act by allowing access to hextech magic.

Heavy is the Crown - we open on a great tragedy with dead parents and friends, conflict is now instigated and hatred grows, Jayce carries Viktor away from the tragedy to save him with the hexcore, a distinct act (the attack at the memorial) sets off the chain of events in the first act by inspiring Jayce to make hextech weapons.

Episode 2:

Some Mysteries Are Better Left Unsolved - we cut to the opposite side of the events in the previous episode. Let’s focus on the aftermath of the events in episode one for the other side. We see a team-up between unlikely people (Jayce and Viktor) to accomplish their greater goal of hextech becoming a reality. A council meeting makes a pivotal choice against Jayce that leads to him feeling alone. The episode ends with Vi trying to be a martyr and sacrifice herself for the good of her family and the entirety of the Undercity so no war breaks out.

Watch It All Burn - we cut to the opposite side of the events of the previous episode. We see a team-up between unlikely people (Sevika and Jinx) meanwhile Viktor and Jayce officially split up over the path hextech has taken. A meeting between the chem-barons about handing over Jinx as well as the appearance of the strike team leads to Jinx feeling completely alone. The episode ends with Viktor using his new power, despite the toll on himself, for the good of the Undercity.

Episode 3:

The Base Violence Necessary For Change - the emotional climax, the moment where relationships fall apart, cutting back and forth between the fighting for your life family tragedy and a pivotal evolution of hextech, a moment of anger fractures the relationship between Vi and Powder and they are separated, an emphasis on hands and how we hurt the people we love, Silco adopts Powder after seeing himself in her, the episode ends on a haunting musical piece with a focus on flames and the eye of hatred

Finally Got The Name Right - the emotional climax, the moment where relationships fall apart, cutting back and forth between the fighting for your life family tragedy and a pivotal evolution of hextech, a moment of anger fractures the relationship between Vi and Caitlyn and they are separated, an emphasis on hands—both for Caitlyn taking Ambessa’s hand and then the hand-based uses of the weapons in the fight, Jinx has adopted Isha after seeing herself within her, the episode ends on a haunting musical piece with a focus on hatred as well as Caitlyn and Ambessa’s eyes

Episode 4:

Happy Progress Day - after a time skip, look at how Piltover and the Undercity have changed based on the revelations of the previous episode, hextech has become a normal everyday thing, there is so much advancement but also new rebellions brewing—specifically the firelights fighting back against Silco’s goons, Jinx and how she has changed are emphasized while Vi doesn’t make an appearance until the end, the relationship between Silco and Jinx is explored, an attack against Piltover—done by Jinx to prove herself to Silco—sparks a hunt by Caitlyn for Jinx, we see our first look at Jinx’s hallucinations and psychosis, we see Jinx’s weapon evolution and her new fighting style against the firelights, the ending takes place in Stillwater prison with a reuniting of a familiar face (Vi)

Paint The Town Blue - after a time skip, look at how Piltover and the Undercity have changed based on the revelations of the previous episode but this time there is no advancement other than war and fear, hextech is stagnant because Jayce and Heimerdinger are missing, new rebellions are brewing with the Jinxers following Jinx as a symbol, Jinx and how she has changed are emphasized while Vi makes no appearance, the relationship between Jinx and Isha is explored, an attack against Piltover/Noxus—done by Isha to help keep the spark of revolution alive—creates an opening for Piltover/Noxus to hunt down the rebels, we see our first look at Jinx’s NEW hallucinations with Silco and Enforcer Vi joining the band, we see Jinx’s weapon evolution and her new fighting style against Warwick, the ending takes place in Stillwater prison with a reuniting of a familiar face (Vander as Warwick)

Episode 5:

Everybody Wants To Be My Enemy - we open with Vi and what she has been up to during the timskip, she is freed from prison by Caitlyn who needs her help to find Jinx, Caitlyn and Vi explore the Undercity together and have fun banter as well as coming to more understanding of one another, lot of politics happening for Piltover with Jayce coming into his role as a councilor, Vi and Sevika get to fight, the episode ends with the reveal to Silco that Vi has returned

Blisters and Bedrock - we open with Vi and what she has been up to during the timskip, she is “freed” from her drinking and brawling phase by Jinx who needs her help to find Vander/Warwick, Jinx and Vi along with Isha explore the tunnels under the Undercity and get to have fun banter and sibling bonding moments, lots of politics happening for Piltover as Ambessa makes an alliance with Singed and Caitlyn learns about his experiments, Vi and Warwick get to fight, the episode ends with the reveal in the dark tunnel that Vander has “come back” enough mentally to hug his daughters and also with the return of Jayce and the reveal of our “new” Viktor

Episode 6:

When These Walls Come Tumbling Down - Viktor and Singed collaborate to find a solution to the hexcore and Victor’s illness, Viktor focuses on healing himself, Viktor believes Jayce will understand his choices, Caitlyn and Vi get closer while working together to escape Silco, tensions increase greatly between the cities due to checkpoints at the bridge, Vi and Jinx reunite only to be torn apart by the firelights attacking and also Caitlyn needing to arrest Jinx for her murders, Vi was stabbed in the previous episode but the stab is still very fresh here for the most part, the episode ends with Jinx screaming at what she has lost

The Message Hidden Within The Pattern - Viktor and Singed meet again and talk about Victor’s diminishing power and his evolution, Viktor has become a healer and has a cult commune, Jayce does not understand Victor’s choices here, Caitlyn and Vi meet again and collaborate to take down Ambessa and Singed, tensions increase greatly between the cities as Ambessa rages war on the commune, Vi is stabbed, Vi and Jinx slowly become sisters again but the ending rips that to shreds by Isha’s sacrifice which will destroy Jinx, the episode ends with Jinx screaming at what she has lost

There’s definitely something I’ve missed in these as I’m going purely off of memory rn so leave any other direct episode parallels in the comments if you want! I tried to focus just on parallels that happen in the same episodes but there definitely are parallels across episodes for character dynamics and stuff. And of course now I realize that we can predict, maybe, some events happening in the final three episodes knowing that they are paralleling!!

Hear are my act 3 predications based on season 1:

Episode 7: The Boy Savior - Ekko returns, there’s a fight on the bridge with explosions, Jinx and Caitlyn are injured, the Ekko v Jinx fight contains references to clocks and time travel

Episode 7 of season 2 (wouldn’t it be crazy if the episode were titled “The Boy Who Shattered Time”) - Ekko will return and have an idea about time travel, there will be a fight on a bridge or some kind of explosion, Jinx goes off the rails due to Isha’s loss, Caitlyn is injured in some way….we at least know Vi is injured yet again

Episode 8: Oil and Water - Viktor begins to change, Vi and Caitlyn split up dramatically, new hextech weapons are revealed, Singed does mad scientist shit to Jinx, Caitlyn shower scene, Vi and Jayce team up, episode ends with Jinx’s return after her shimmer injections

Episode 8 of season 2 - Victor’s next step in glorious evolution begins, Vi and Caitlyn come together again (dramatically), new hextech weapons (we see Caitlyn gets an updated gun eventually), Singed does mad scientist shit to Viktor and maybe also Warwick, Caitlyn and Vi shower sex scene please!!!!, team up with Jayce to do some shit, episode could end with Jinx joining the fight against Noxus with the new chopped hair look

Episode 9: The Monster You Created - Jinx kills Silco, Vi and Jinx come to a new understanding of one another, the council is bombed, Vi v Sevika fight

Episode 9 of season 2 - we can’t kill Ambessa because she’s a champion but Jinx will probably have something to do with getting Noxus to leave Piltover, Vi and Jinx coming to terms with one another after needing to collaborate, something gets blown up like a lot, Sevika return????

Rahhhh okay I’m done with this and I’ll update the parallels after act 3 drops!!! I’m frothing at the mouth over this show!!!

[maul-of-shame]

I think a lot of people are forgetting that Elrond and Galadriel didn't read LOTR and aren't aware they're going to be in laws. They don't have the 4th wall powers that we, the audience do. As far as either of them are concerned, Cborn is dead and given that Galadriel placed a higher priority on hunting Sauron than returning to him (assuming she believes that he's in Valinor), Elrond is takes the role Cborn would have had. I hope we see more Elrond and Galadriel moments in season 3 😊

They've both been through the same shit, they GET each other, and there's no 'expectation' attached to their relationship, and that is liberating when it comes to healing each other's trauma.

Absolutely, this point is spot-on!

Elrond and Galadriel's connection exists on an entirely unique plane where no one, especially not us as the audience, can dictate how their bond should look or evolve.

These two are free from the expectations or constraints of what’s “supposed” to happen based on outside knowledge. They certainly don’t see their future relationship as in-laws as a given, so their relationship is genuinely theirs to explore.

Their chemistry feels so deep and genuine precisely because it isn’t bound by any traditional family role or societal expectation.

Both Elrond and Galadriel have lived through millennia of war, loss, and hard choices, and they’ve developed a bond built on shared experiences, genuine understanding, and respect. Elrond gets Galadriel’s drive, her sacrifices, and the toll they take, while Galadriel recognizes his wisdom, patience, and loyalty. It’s rare to see characters who don’t need to explain their trauma because the other person just knows—they’ve been through the same fires.

And what makes this relationship even more intriguing is the lack of obligation or label tied to it.

There’s a liberating effect here: both of them are healing and supporting each other in ways that go beyond friendship or family ties. When they come together, it’s like two souls unburdened by destiny but bound by choice. Each moment between them is open to interpretation and possibility, and that freedom feels refreshing and real.

For Elrond, his connection with Galadriel feels like the home he never really had in the ways that matter most. Through his life, he's often been in roles of service and loyalty—to his family, to Gil-galad, to his people—but with Galadriel, he doesn’t need to be the wise, steady counselor or the responsible guardian. He can let his own vulnerabilities show, unafraid of being judged or misunderstood. In Galadriel, he sees a person who recognizes his struggles and his sacrifices without him having to speak a word, and who knows the gravity of loss in the way only someone who’s carried that burden for centuries can.

And for Galadriel, Elrond is a refuge she never expected but always needed. As much as she’s a warrior, a leader, and a force of nature, she’s also a person with deep wounds. With Elrond, she’s able to lay down her armor, put down her sword and shield, trusting him with the side of herself that’s tired, uncertain, and still healing. There’s a comfort in being with someone who doesn't require her to be constantly unbreakable. Instead of being another soldier in her battle, Elrond stands beside her as a partner, a friend, and a kindred soul.

They share this understanding, a bond that’s impossible to reduce to labels or roles. Each look, every moment between them, is layered with the kind of depth that goes beyond words—They're two people who simply get each other. Their relationship isn’t defined by duty or shaped by societal roles; it’s something they’ve chosen to build together. And perhaps that’s what makes it so liberating: their connection is entirely theirs, shaped only by the mutual respect, trust, love, and affection they’ve cultivated over time.

In a world where they both carry the heavy weight of their respective roles, this bond is like a breath of fresh air, a reminder that they don’t have to be alone in their struggles.

They’re not defined by destiny or forced together by obligation; they’re here because they choose each other.

Over and over again.

It’s a love and connection that doesn’t need words to define it or titles to legitimize it. It’s simply there, in every glance, every shared silence, and every act of unwavering support. And in a life full of responsibilities and ancient sorrows, that freedom is the truest form of peace.

[raayllum]

like i have not spent ages thinking about how far i can push rayllum to be borderline unhealthy while also giving them room to walk back from the brink and still have a healthy relationship with each other to Not be excited the show is exploring the exact same thing - Could you please explain the above with regards to your fic? Like maybe some scenarios we can expect? Especially around the whole unhealthy relationship traits :) Love messy relationships in stories :)

re: this post

So one of my favourite things about TDP is that they emphasize, time and time again, that you can deeply love someone and they can deeply love you, and yet that doesn't mean 1) the relationship can't be or cannot become unhealthy and 2) that genuine love can be precisely what destroys the relationship / the people in it anyway. Ex: Harrow and Viren's entire decades long fuckery, Rayla and Runaan (re: he loved her too much to see she wasn't fit to be an assassin), Harrow's love for Sarai being so warped he does something she would never want or approve of to assuage his own rage and grief/guilt (and Viren pushing Harrow to take revenge for similar reasons), even Callum and Claudia to a degree, etc. Even the healthiest of relationships have periods or patterns of unhealthiness and in a series all about breaking harmful cycles, it’s particularly apt, tragic, and interesting

I always figured we saw the beginnings of this in TTM / that Rayla's tendency to go off on her own (and self-sacrifice) was going to be, in many ways, their biggest hurdle to face. Callum also has self destructive tendencies when it comes to magical desperation (2x04 and 2x07) but he also has self-preservation and optimism, even as he verges closer to where Rayla stands in S4.

Basically: the fundamental misunderstanding of TTM, in which Rayla chooses Callum by leaving, and Callum views her as choosing the mission over him by staying away, is undeniably tragic with both of them being right and both of them being wrong, and we see that follow through into S4 (Callum asking Rayla to kill him and thinking it's something she would viably do in the first place). This relationship between love as transformation (positive change), salvation (life), and destruction (death) and the razor's edge between all of them is something I've thought a lot about within Rayllum's bond in general, since it's also a big theme in the show that we come back to time and time again, and theirs is the relationship it probably manifests in the most every season:

Will this thing help me or hurt me? Will it save me or kill me?

“Wow. So they look identical, but they might kill you or they might save you,” Callum said.

“Exactly. Just like me…” Rayla smiled.

It's a level of symbolic and interpersonal intensity I just can't get enough, as well as the inherent risk in it: Callum, reckless, driven, relentless, barreling towards what might be his own destruction because he just can't resist. Rayla, more cautious and more aware, so scared of pulling others down with her and cognizant that she'll go down with the ship (Callum's ship) to the very end. This was all present to me and one of my favourite ideas to explore pre-S4's release, so I think it's very unsurprising that the "I need you to kill me" scene from 4x07 ended up being my favourite scene in the season, because it's thematically richer than beyond anything I ever dreamed of going in.

"Desperate Measures," now firmly canon divergent, focuses on Rayla going undercover in a Xadian dark mage guild when Callum stumbles across her and gets entwined in the lie, as he refuses to just leave her there. The emotional toll of the increasingly unethical and awful things they have to do, the anger and hurt and love they still hold for one another that they can't reveal to anyone else, and their increasing resentment towards one another (Rayla is trying to spare him, Callum is trying to keep her safe at expense to himself) understandably pushes them to their limits and makes them resort to, well, some desperate measures in order to keep the other person Safe, if deeply unhappy.

This includes having to 1) downplay their connection and history together, omitting massive chunks of it, 2) going along on some dark magic hunts and both participating in ingredient collection, 3) increasingly losing a sense of self, etc. Again, all things we see little peeks of in S4, in terms of Rayla being far more jaded, both of them being pretty lost without the other, not talking about their relationship as much because of everything going on, being frustrated and hurt but refusing to / being unable to walk away from each other or let go.

However, one of my favourite things about pushing an otherwise healthy relationship to that extreme is keeping it together enough that it can be healthy again, and what that journey would look like. So it's a pretty bleak fic, I think, but not devoid of hope and affection - just a lot of anguish, too.

Overall I think this line sums up the analysis and the fic quite well:

“I can’t!” Callum burst, his chest heaving. “I can’t stop caring—I don’t fucking hate you―that’s the problem!”

When you love someone so much they destroy you, just a little (or a lot)? Yeah

[ofw-job-orders]

Filipino Media OFWs in Bangkok: Blockchain, Health, & the Path to Economic Reintegration

The sun beats down on Sukhumvit Road, Bangkok’s bustling artery, as Maria scrolls through her phone, checking the latest cryptocurrency prices. A former television producer from Manila, Maria is one of the thousands of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Thailand, navigating a life far from home, grappling with unique challenges, and exploring new avenues for financial security. Her story, like that of many media professionals working abroad, highlights the complex interplay of ambition, sacrifice, and the constant search for better opportunities.

The narrative of the OFW is deeply ingrained in the Filipino psyche. Generations have sought employment overseas, contributing significantly to the Philippine economy through remittances. While the typical image of an OFW might be a domestic worker or a construction worker, a growing segment comprises skilled professionals, including those in the media industry. Drawn by the promise of higher salaries and international experience, these individuals often leave behind established careers and families to carve a new path in foreign lands.

Bangkok, a vibrant hub of Southeast Asia, has become a popular destination for Filipino media professionals. The city’s burgeoning media landscape offers opportunities in journalism, broadcasting, advertising, and public relations. Yet, the allure of international experience often comes with its own set of challenges. Long working hours, cultural adjustments, and the constant pressure to perform can take a toll on physical and mental well-being.

Maria’s experience echoes this reality. The demanding nature of her job as a video editor for a Thai production company often requires her to work late nights and weekends. The pressure to adapt to a new work environment, coupled with the emotional strain of being away from her family, has led to sleep deprivation and anxiety. “It’s a constant juggling act,” she admits, “trying to balance work, personal life, and staying connected with loved ones back home.”

Physical health challenges are a significant concern for OFWs, particularly those in demanding professions like media. The long hours, sedentary lifestyle, and often unhealthy food options can contribute to various health problems, including obesity, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. Access to quality healthcare can also be a barrier, especially for those in lower-paying jobs or without comprehensive health insurance. Maria, for example, has been experiencing persistent back pain due to long hours spent in front of a computer. Finding affordable and accessible healthcare in a foreign country has proven to be an added layer of complexity.

In recent years, a new dimension has been added to the OFW narrative: the exploration of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. The decentralized nature and potential for high returns have attracted many OFWs, who see these technologies as a means to achieve financial independence and secure their future. Maria, like many of her colleagues, started researching cryptocurrencies in 2020, drawn by the stories of significant gains and the possibility of creating a safety net for herself and her family.

The timing of this exploration is significant. The COVID-19 pandemic, which began around the same time, significantly impacted the global economy and highlighted the vulnerabilities of traditional financial systems. Many OFWs faced job losses and reduced income, prompting them to seek alternative avenues for financial security. The pandemic also accelerated the adoption of digital technologies, making it easier for individuals to access information and engage with online platforms related to cryptocurrencies and blockchain.

While the potential of these technologies is undeniable, it's crucial to acknowledge the risks involved. The volatility of cryptocurrency markets, the potential for scams, and the lack of regulatory frameworks in many countries necessitate caution and thorough research. For OFWs, who often have limited financial resources and may be less familiar with these technologies, it is essential to approach this space with informed decision-making and a clear understanding of the potential downsides.

The eventual return home is a constant thought for most OFWs. The dream of reuniting with family and building a stable life in the Philippines is a powerful motivator. However, the economic reintegration of returning OFWs presents a unique set of challenges. Finding suitable employment opportunities that match their skills and experience acquired abroad is often difficult. The disparity between salaries offered in the Philippines and those earned overseas can be a significant deterrent, forcing many returning OFWs to accept lower-paying jobs or face unemployment.

This is where resources like OFWJobs.org (www.ofwjobs.org) play a vital role. Platforms like these provide a bridge between returning OFWs and potential employers in the Philippines. By connecting skilled professionals with relevant job opportunities, they facilitate a smoother transition back into the local workforce and contribute to the overall economic development of the country. The site offers a range of resources, including job listings, career advice, and information on government programs designed to support returning OFWs.

The government also has a crucial role to play in supporting the economic reintegration of returning OFWs. Investing in skills development programs, providing access to affordable financing for entrepreneurship, and creating a conducive business environment can empower returning OFWs to leverage their international experience and contribute to the growth of the Philippine economy. Furthermore, strengthening regulatory frameworks for emerging technologies like blockchain and cryptocurrency can create new opportunities for OFWs and foster innovation within the country.

Maria’s story is just one example of the multifaceted experiences of OFWs, particularly those in the media industry. Their journey is marked by sacrifice, resilience, and a constant pursuit of better opportunities. While the challenges are real and often significant, the unwavering spirit of the OFW, coupled with supportive resources and proactive government policies, can pave the way for successful economic reintegration and a brighter future back home. As technology continues to evolve and the global landscape shifts, the narrative of the OFW will undoubtedly continue to evolve, reflecting the changing dynamics of work, migration, and the pursuit of a better life. The exploration of new technologies, like blockchain and cryptocurrency, may become an increasingly important part of this evolving narrative, offering new avenues for financial security and empowerment.

[littlebum-india]

Making the Most of Motherhood : The Benefits of LittleBum’s Detachable Hip Seat Carrier

Motherhood is an extraordinary journey filled with love, joy, and memorable moments. But let’s face it being a mom is also physically demanding. Between feedings, diaper changes, and endless cuddles, the weight of carrying your little one can take a toll on your body. That's where a detachable hip seat carrier comes to the rescue, offering both comfort and convenience to busy moms. At LittleBum.in, we’ve designed the LittleBum Detachable Baby Carrier with moms in mind, ensuring that you can make the most of motherhood without feeling the strain.

What Makes the LittleBum Detachable Hip Seat Carrier Special?

The detachable hip seat carrier isn’t just any baby carrier; it’s a game-changer for mothers who value both practicality and comfort. Unlike traditional carriers, a hip seat carrier offers more support for your baby’s hips while evenly distributing the weight across your body. This means no more sore shoulders or back pain!

The Blue Ocean Detachable Hip Seat Carrier and the Silver Hills Detachable Hip Seat Baby Carrier in our collection at LittleBum.in are ergonomically designed to ensure maximum comfort for both you and your baby. Whether you’re out for a walk or simply doing household chores, the detachable hip seat allows for better posture and flexibility.

The Versatility of a Detachable Hip Seat Carrier

One of the key benefits of our Hip Seat Detachable Baby Carrier is its versatility. The detachable seat can be used on its own for quick, easy carrying, or you can attach it to the full carrier for added security. This flexibility is especially useful for moms who need to adapt to different situations quickly whether you're in a park, at home, or traveling. Our Infinite Detachable Hip Seat Baby Carrier is designed to make every moment of motherhood a little easier.

Additionally, the Yellow Pyramid Detachable Hip Seat Baby Carrier offers a comfortable fit for babies of all sizes, ensuring that your little one is snug and secure. The materials are soft, breathable, and perfect for all-day wear, giving both you and your baby a cozy experience.

Supporting Motherhood with Convenience

Motherhood comes with its own set of challenges, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. The detachable hip seat baby carrier lets you enjoy more freedom while still keeping your baby close. Whether you’re running errands or enjoying a day out, our LittleBum detachable baby carrier makes it easy for you to bond with your child while keeping your hands free.

The design is not just about functionality, though. At LittleBum.in, we understand that every mom has her own style, which is why our carriers, like the Silver Hills Detachable Hip Seat Carrier, come in a range of modern, stylish colors to suit your preference.

Conclusion : Make the Most of Motherhood with LittleBum

Why sacrifice your comfort when you can have both style and functionality? At LittleBum.in, we offer a variety of detachable hip seat baby carriers that make it easier for you to carry your baby without the strain. From the Blue Ocean Detachable Hip Seat Carrier to the Yellow Pyramid Detachable Hip Seat Baby Carrier, our carriers are designed to support you through the beautiful journey of motherhood.

Explore our collection today at LittleBum.In and enjoy motherhood in a way that’s comfortable, stylish, and hassle-free!

[theideaofyou17]

The Magnetic Pull of "The Idea of You": A Journey into Love, Fame, and Self-Discovery

In a world where glamour and fame often overshadow the depths of human connection, Robinne Lee’s "The Idea of You" stands as a beacon of authenticity, drawing readers into a whirlwind tale that transcends the boundaries of celebrity culture to explore the raw, unfiltered essence of love, passion, and self-discovery.

At its heart, "The Idea of You" is a story of unexpected encounters and undeniable chemistry. Solène Marchand, a sophisticated art gallery owner, finds herself swept into a mesmerizing romance with the enigmatic Hayes Campbell, a member of the world-famous boy band August Moon. What begins as a chance encounter at a concert evolves into a passionate love affair that defies societal norms and challenges both Solène and Hayes to confront their deepest desires and fears.

Lee's narrative prowess shines brightly as she delves into the complexities of love in the limelight. Through Solène's eyes, we experience the intoxicating allure of fame juxtaposed with the profound vulnerability of human connection. As Solène grapples with the exhilarating highs and devastating lows of her relationship with Hayes, we are reminded that beneath the glitz and glamour lies a longing for authenticity and genuine connection.

What sets "The Idea of You" apart is its fearless exploration of age, desire, and societal expectations. Solène, a woman in her forties, navigates the treacherous waters of a romance with a man half her age, defying societal norms and challenging readers to confront their own preconceptions about love and age. Lee's portrayal of Solène is both empowering and relatable, humanizing her struggles and triumphs in a way that resonates deeply with readers of all ages.

Beyond its captivating love story, "The Idea of You" serves as a poignant commentary on the nature of fame and the sacrifices required to maintain a public image. Through Solène's journey, we witness the toll that relentless media scrutiny and public perception can take on one's sense of self-worth and identity. Yet, amidst the chaos of fame, Solène discovers the power of self-acceptance and the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of relentless scrutiny.

Lee's masterful storytelling is further elevated by her richly drawn characters and vividly rendered settings. From the sun-drenched beaches of Malibu to the glittering streets of Paris, "The Idea of You" immerses readers in a world brimming with passion, glamour, and intrigue. Each page is infused with palpable emotion, inviting readers to experience the highs and lows of Solène and Hayes's tumultuous romance firsthand.

As the story unfolds, Lee deftly explores themes of identity, ambition, and the pursuit of happiness. Through Solène's journey of self-discovery, we are reminded that true fulfillment comes not from external validation or material success, but from embracing our authentic selves and following our hearts, no matter where they may lead.

In "The Idea of You," Robinne Lee has crafted a captivating tale that transcends genres and defies expectations. Equal parts romance, drama, and coming-of-age story, this novel is a testament to the enduring power of love and the resilience of the human spirit. Whether you're a hopeless romantic or a skeptic of love's grandeur, "The Idea of You" is sure to captivate your heart and leave you yearning for more. So, dive into the irresistible world of Solène and Hayes, where passion knows no bounds and love is always worth fighting for.

[themovieblogonline]

Stopmotion Review: A Terrifying Live-Action and Animated Horror

Robert Morgan, primarily known for his striking and macabre short films, makes a seamless transition to the feature-length format with Stopmotion, a live-action/adult animated psychological horror film that effectively blurs the lines between creator and creation. Co-written with Robin King, Morgan’s feature debut is a dark and mesmerizing exploration of art, obsession, and identity, anchored by a compelling lead performance from Aisling Franciosi. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Debr5KI1QIU Franciosi stars as Ella Blake, a young woman grappling with the heavy burden of finishing her mother Suzanne's (played by Stella Gonet) final stop-motion film. Suzanne, a celebrated animator now incapacitated by arthritis and later a coma-inducing stroke, leaves Ella with not just the technical challenge of completing a film, but the emotional weight of fulfilling her mother's dying wish. This premise sets the stage for a narrative rich with metaphors for creation, loss, and the tangible remnants of those we love. The integration of live-action and stop-motion animation is seamless, serving as a testament to Morgan's roots in animation and his profound understanding of its potential to tell deeply human stories. The animated sequences, though fantastical, convey a sense of tangible emotion, becoming a visual representation of Ella's internal struggles. However, it is when Ella decides to embark on her own project, inspired by a mysterious girl in her building, that the film truly delves into its horror elements. The shift towards crafting a stop-motion film about a girl evading an ominous entity called the Ash Man ushers in a new layer of narrative complexity. The film expertly navigates the dichotomy of creation and destruction, utilizing eerie stop-motion figures to reflect Ella's unraveling psyche. The psychological depth of Stopmotion is further accentuated by Franciosi's performance. Her portrayal of Ella's descent into obsession and madness is nuanced and deeply affecting. She ensures that the audience is rooted in her perspective, even as the narrative spirals into darkness. The supporting cast offers solid performances that round out the film's emotionally charged atmosphere. One of the most commendable aspects of Stopmotion is its willingness to delve into the more unsettling facets of creativity. The film doesn't shy away from the ugliness that can accompany the act of making art. The sacrifices, the obsession, and the toll it takes on the creator's mental health. The inclusion of disturbing imagery, particularly in the film's climax, may be off-putting to some viewers. However, it is undeniable that these elements serve a purpose in highlighting the destructive power of unchecked creativity. However, while Stopmotion is an impressive debut, it is not without its flaws. At times, the film's pacing feels uneven, particularly in the middle segment. This is where the narrative meanders slightly before finding its footing again. Additionally, some of the plot developments feel predictable, detracting from the overall impact of the story's climax. Despite minor flaws, the film is captivating due to its unique blend of animation and live-action. Moreover, the film’s conclusion, though jarring, is a bold choice. It will undoubtedly leave audiences pondering the nature of the story they have just witnessed. It raises questions about the cost of artistic endeavor and the blurred lines between fiction and reality. Stopmotion is a formidable debut from Robert Morgan, offering a unique and thought-provoking horror experience. Morgan's film combines animation, strong performances, and a compelling narrative, showcasing their ability to blend psychological themes with genre elements. Despite some minor hiccups, Stopmotion is a must-watch for fans of psychological horror and animated cinema alike. It serves as a reminder of the medium's potential to explore the deepest corners of the human psyche. Read the full article

[14-monterozo-marry-grace-r]

Title: "A Journey of Strength: Rising Above Adversity and Redefining Family"

The story begins with judgment, harsh whispers from judgmental neighbors, labeling her with a term that echoes through the narrow alleys—words that cut deeper than any blade. She, once hailed as the most beautiful and renowned in her community, finds herself at the center of a storm that would shape her destiny.

As she invites us into her world, she speaks of vulnerability and the struggles that accompany a life marred by exploitation. The dichotomy of acceptance and exploitation, the clash of societal norms with personal choices, unfolds in a narrative that questions the foundations of morality and societal expectations.

She found the strength to break free from the chains that bound her. With the support of her children, she faced the daunting task of rebuilding a shattered life. The journey to redemption, however, was not without its challenges. The scars of the past, financial burdens, and the haunting memories of a life once lived in opulence lingered like shadows.

In the face of societal judgment and disdain, she clung to her newfound strength. The dichotomy of her life, from the opulence of a pseudo-happy existence to the struggle for survival, becomes a powerful narrative of human resilience. The sacrifices made for the sake of her children, scattered across the globe, reflect a mother's unwavering love that transcends physical boundaries.

As the holiday season approaches, she grapples with the fear of being forgotten by her children, questioning whether the sacrifices she made will be remembered. The impending new year brings with it a mixture of hope and trepidation, as whispers of an impending threat loom on the horizon.

She calls out to her children, expressing a simple desire for love and acknowledgment. The plea is not just a cry for attention but a declaration of the enduring strength that lies within her, a strength that has carried her through the darkest nights.

The mind of judgmental whispers and societal scorn, a woman's story unfolds, revealing a life marked by exploitation, resilience, and the unyielding bonds of a fractured family. "Minsan May Isang P*ta" by Mike Portes takes us on a rollercoaster ride through the complexities of human relationships, societal expectations, and the pursuit of redemption.

The narrative opens with the protagonist's confrontation with the harsh labels thrown her way by judgmental neighbors. As she lights a cigarette, she invites us into her world—a world where beauty and fame gave way to a tumultuous journey of self-discovery.

The protagonist reflects on her encounters with those who sought to exploit her vulnerability, leading to a tumultuous series of events that challenge societal norms and expectations. The dichotomy of acceptance and exploitation becomes a recurring theme as she grapples with the consequences of accepting those who were drawn to her.

The narrative takes a dark turn as she recounts the encounters with foreigners who feasted upon her body, an experience clouded with conflicting emotions. The vivid description of her struggle to resist and the peculiar allure of one perpetrator's touch paints a haunting picture of the psychological toll of exploitation.

Despite the traumatic experiences, the protagonist finds solace in the apology and care offered by one of her exploiters, complicating her emotions and leaving her questioning the nature of the relationships she forged. The narrative explores the blurred lines between abuse and twisted affection, revealing the intricate layers of the protagonist's psyche.

The turning point arrives when, with the support of her children, she musters the strength to break free from the toxic cycle that threatened to consume her. The journey to liberation, however, is not without its challenges, and the protagonist grapples with the aftermath of financial ruin and the haunting memories of a life once lived in opulence.

The narrative shifts to the protagonist's attempts at rebuilding—a journey made even more daunting by the uncertainty of whether she was truly freed or merely caught in another web of deceit. The story becomes a poignant exploration of the struggles faced by those who escape exploitation, only to be confronted by the harsh realities of starting anew.

In the face of societal judgment and the challenges of rebuilding, the protagonist stands firm, driven by the need to show her children that she can be a pillar of strength for them. The narrative weaves a tale of ambition, dreams, and the relentless pursuit of a better life, showcasing the protagonist's determination to rise above adversity.

As the story unfolds, we witness the dispersion of her children across the globe, each facing their own trials and tribulations. The protagonist's reflections on motherhood and the sacrifices made for her children resonate, emphasizing the enduring power of a mother's love that transcends physical distance.

The narrative takes an emotional turn as the protagonist grapples with the fear of being forgotten, especially during the holiday season. The impending new year brings both hope and trepidation, as whispers of a looming threat add an element of suspense to the tale.

In the protagonist calls out to her children, expressing a simple desire for love and acknowledgment. The plea serves as a powerful declaration of the enduring strength that lies within her—a strength that has carried her through the darkest nights.

conclusion,

"Minsan May Isang P*ta" unfolds as a narrative of resilience, redemption, and the unbreakable bonds of family. The protagonist's journey, marked by exploitation and societal judgment, becomes a testament to the indomitable spirit that can rise above adversity, redefine one's narrative, and reclaim the essence of family.

the quiet corners of every neighborhood, stories unfold, often untold, bearing the weight of triumphs and tribulations. Such is the narrative of a woman whose life, once cast in shadows, now stands as a testament to resilience and the unwavering spirit of survival.In the face of societal judgment and disdain, she clung to her newfound strength. The dichotomy of her life, from the opulence of a pseudo-happy existence to the struggle for survival, becomes a powerful narrative of human resilience. The sacrifices made for the sake of her children, scattered across the globe, reflect a mother's unwavering love that transcends physical boundaries.

[danivaralfjustincruz]

"Minsan my isang p*ta" by Mike Portez

This short story delves into a complex web of exploitation, manipulation, and the struggle for identity and familial connection. It raises profound questions about love, sacrifice, and the haunting impact of being used for personal gain. The narrative confronts the harsh realities of relationships built on exploitation, where the protagonist's quest for love and support leads to a cycle of suffering and debt.

The story emphasizes the profound pain of being used and discarded, especially in the context of intimate relationships. The protagonist's yearning for genuine connection is overshadowed by the manipulation and poison of those they trusted, leaving them deeply indebted and questioning their own worth.

Furthermore, it sheds light on the intergenerational impact of this struggle, highlighting the complexities of parenting across different countries and the emotional toll it takes on the children left behind. The author's contemplation of their children's behaviors reflects the cycle of exploitation, where the offspring, despite education, mirror the same pursuit of temporary riches and capitalize on their parents' struggles, possibly as a means of survival in a harsh environment.

The fear of being exploited further in the future and the plea for remembrance and defense showcase the vulnerability and desperation of the protagonist. Their desire to break free from the cycle of exploitation and prioritize familial bonds over material gain underscores the story's poignant theme.

Overall, this story unflinchingly portrays the intricate layers of exploitation, love, and the agonizing pursuit of familial connections amid a landscape of manipulation and deceit.

"Equality" by Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou, a renowned American poet, civil rights activist, and author, used her powerful words to tackle issues of social justice and equality throughout her illustrious career. One of her thought-provoking poems, "Equality," serves as a poignant exploration of the quest for true equality in a society marked by racial divisions and injustice. In this essay, we will delve into the poem "Equality," analyzing its themes, literary techniques, and the significance of Angelou's message.

1. Themes in "Equality"

Maya Angelou's poem "Equality" primarily explores themes of racial discrimination and the struggle for civil rights. The poem reflects the deep-seated inequality that permeated American society, particularly during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. Angelou's words shed light on the oppression faced by African Americans and the unyielding fight for equal rights.

2. Literary Techniques

Angelou employs various literary techniques to convey her message effectively. The poem is written in free verse, allowing her to express her thoughts and emotions without the constraints of a rigid rhyme or meter. Her choice of words is vivid and evocative, drawing the reader into the experience of racial injustice. She uses metaphors and symbolism to vividly illustrate the struggle for equality, turning everyday objects into powerful symbols of oppression and hope.

3. The Significance of Angelou's Message

"Equality" is a powerful and emotionally charged poem that serves as a call to action. It highlights the urgent need for social change and justice in a society plagued by racial prejudice. Angelou's poem encourages readers to reflect on their own roles in the fight for equality and to take a stand against discrimination and injustice. Her words inspire hope and determination, emphasizing that the quest for equality is an ongoing struggle that demands unity and unwavering commitment.

Maya Angelou's poem "Equality" stands as a testament to her remarkable ability to use poetry as a tool for social change. Through her powerful themes and literary techniques, she paints a vivid picture of the quest for equality in a society divided by racial injustice. The poem remains relevant and compelling, serving as a reminder that the fight for civil rights and social justice is a shared responsibility. Maya Angelou's legacy endures in her poetic works, and "Equality" continues to inspire and challenge readers to work towards a more just and equitable world.

[storytimewithnova]

Unselfish Desires: Shona's Last Wish for Her Twin Brothers.

Plot Summary: Shona Miya, a 16-year-old girl, faces a challenging reality as she battles a terminal illness. With an uncertain future, she decides to create a short bucket list that includes typical desires like traveling to new places and experiencing novel adventures. She's cautious not to make the list too long or extravagant due to her limited time.

However, at the very top of her list is a deeply personal wish that touches her heart profoundly. Her final and most significant wish is to witness the success and happiness of her twin brothers, Atsumu and Osamu, without her presence by their side. She yearns to see them thrive and flourish, knowing that they are content with their lives.

Determined to make her last wish come true, Shona dedicates every moment of her life to ensure her brothers' success and happiness, even if it means stepping aside from her role in their lives. The story follows Shona's inspiring journey as she pours her love and support into her brothers, guiding them toward their dreams and aspirations.

The plot beautifully captures Shona's selfless and heartfelt desire to see her twin brothers thrive, making it a heartwarming and emotional tale of love, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bonds between siblings.

Shona Miya had always been aware of life's brevity, but that awareness became painfully magnified when she received the devastating news of her terminal illness. At the tender age of sixteen, Shona's future seemed bleak, clouded by uncertainty and the knowledge that her time was limited. Faced with this harsh reality, she made the courageous decision to create a bucket list, a collection of desires she hoped to fulfill before bidding farewell to the world.

Carefully considering her limited time, Shona composed a list that consisted of modest wishes. She dreamt of exploring new places, meeting different people, and experiencing thrilling adventures. But among these desires, there was one deeply personal wish that held the utmost importance to her heart.

Shona's final and most significant aspiration was to witness the resounding success and genuine happiness of her twin brothers, Atsumu and Osamu. From the moment they were born, Shona had felt an indescribable bond with them. Despite her illness, she yearned to see them thrive, knowing that they were content with their lives.

Determined to make her last wish come true, Shona selflessly devoted every moment of her numbered days to ensuring her brothers' triumph and joy. She recognized that her mere presence might hinder their growth, and so she decided to step aside, providing them with the room to flourish independently.

Shona became their unwavering pillar of support, silently guiding them toward their dreams and aspirations. She poured her love into them, determined to equip them with the necessary tools and guidance for the journey ahead. Whether it was providing a listening ear when they faced challenges or offering words of encouragement during moments of doubt, Shona was always there, her smile masking her own pain.

Her brothers, Atsumu and Osamu, were deeply touched by Shona's unwavering commitment to their happiness. Inspired by her incredible strength and selflessness, they pushed themselves to new heights, motivated by the knowledge that their successes would bring her an immeasurable amount of joy.

As time passed and Shona's condition deteriorated, her role as their guide began to take a toll. The weight of her illness became heavier, and completing her bucket list seemed an impossible feat. Yet, she found solace in the realization that her brothers had become amazing individuals who would continue to appreciate the world around them long after she was gone.

In a remarkable turn of events, Atsumu and Osamu discovered their sister's unfulfilled bucket list. Overwhelmed with both love and a renewed sense of purpose, they devoted every ounce of their energy to completing Shona's dreams. They traveled to the places she had longed to visit, they indulged in the adventures she had yearned to experience, and they felt the world through her eyes, their sister's spirit forever intertwined with their own.

When Shona finally closed her eyes for the last time, she did so with a profound sense of contentment. She had witnessed her brothers' success and happiness, knowing that they would continue to thrive long after her departure. Osamu and Atsumu, forever grateful for the love Shona had bestowed upon them, carried her memory in their hearts as they embraced the future with gratitude, courage, and an unbreakable bond formed by the inspiration of their beloved sister.

Thus, Shona's story served as an embodiment of the power of sibling love, sacrifice, and the legacy one can leave behind. Inspired by her favorite character, Oikawa, from a beloved anime, she had emulated his unwavering spirit and indomitable will. Through her selfless acts, Shona had not only touched the lives of her brothers but also became an inspiration to those around her, reminding them that even in the face of adversity, love and determination can transcend the limitations of time and leave an everlasting impact.

And as the sun sets on Shona's story, her brothers, Atsumu and Osamu, stand hand in hand at her gravesite, their love for their sister never fading. They close their eyes, feeling her presence, knowing that her last wish had been fulfilled.

The world continues to turn, and life goes on. But in the hearts and minds of those who knew Shona, her spirit remains a guiding light, a reminder to cherish every moment, to pursue dreams relentlessly, and to always embrace the power of love.

For they say life is short, but the impact we leave behind can ripple through eternity. And Shona Miya's legacy, her selfless love and unwavering support for her brothers, will always be remembered as a testament to the incredible strength of the human spirit.

In the end, Shona's bucket list may have been left unfulfilled, but her brothers, Atsumu and Osamu, picked up the torch, carrying her dreams and desires with them. And in doing so, they not only found success and happiness but also discovered a profound sense of gratitude for the gift of having had Shona as their sister.

Though her time may have been cut short, Shona's impact on the world and the love she shared transcended the bounds of time and space. And in the hearts of those who knew her, her story will forever echo—a reminder of the extraordinary lengths we will go for the ones we love, and the lasting power of our selfless acts.

For in a world where life is indeed too short, Shona Miya's story teaches us that the greatest gift we can give is the happiness and success of those we hold dear. And in that, her spirit lives on, a beacon of love and sacrifice, reminding us all to seize every moment and fill it with the boundless beauty of selfless love.

Shona Miya had always been aware of life's brevity, but that awareness became painfully magnified when she received the devastating news of her terminal illness. At the tender age of sixteen, Shona's future seemed bleak, clouded by uncertainty and the knowledge that her time was limited. Faced with this harsh reality, she made the courageous decision to create a bucket list, a collection of desires she hoped to fulfill before bidding farewell to the world.

Carefully considering her limited time, Shona composed a list that consisted of modest wishes. She dreamt of exploring new places, meeting different people, and experiencing thrilling adventures. But among these desires, there was one deeply personal wish that held the utmost importance to her heart.

Shona's final and most significant aspiration was to witness the resounding success and genuine happiness of her twin brothers, Atsumu and Osamu. From the moment they were born, Shona had felt an indescribable bond with them. Despite her illness, she yearned to see them thrive, knowing that they were content with their lives.

Determined to make her last wish come true, Shona selflessly devoted every moment of her numbered days to ensuring her brothers' triumph and joy. She recognized that her mere presence might hinder their growth, and so she decided to step aside, providing them with the room to flourish independently.

Shona became their unwavering pillar of support, silently guiding them toward their dreams and aspirations. She poured her love into them, determined to equip them with the necessary tools and guidance for the journey ahead. Whether it was providing a listening ear when they faced challenges or offering words of encouragement during moments of doubt, Shona was always there, her smile masking her own pain.

Her brothers, Atsumu and Osamu, were deeply touched by Shona's unwavering commitment to their happiness. Inspired by her incredible strength and selflessness, they pushed themselves to new heights, motivated by the knowledge that their successes would bring her an immeasurable amount of joy.

As time passed and Shona's condition deteriorated, her role as their guide began to take a toll. The weight of her illness became heavier, and completing her bucket list seemed an impossible feat. Yet, she found solace in the realization that her brothers had become amazing individuals who would continue to appreciate the world around them long after she was gone.

In a remarkable turn of events, Atsumu and Osamu discovered their sister's unfulfilled bucket list. Overwhelmed with both love and a renewed sense of purpose, they devoted every ounce of their energy to completing Shona's dreams. They traveled to the places she had longed to visit, they indulged in the adventures she had yearned to experience, and they felt the world through her eyes, their sister's spirit forever intertwined with their own.

When Shona finally closed her eyes for the last time, she did so with a profound sense of contentment. She had witnessed her brothers' success and happiness, knowing that they would continue to thrive long after her departure. Osamu and Atsumu, forever grateful for the love Shona had bestowed upon them, carried her memory in their hearts as they embraced the future with gratitude, courage, and an unbreakable bond formed by the inspiration of their beloved sister.

Years passed since Shona's passing, but her memory remained an ever-present force in the lives of her brothers, Atsumu and Osamu. Each milestone they achieved, every victory they celebrated, was dedicated to the sister who had sacrificed so much for them.

Osamu became a renowned chef, opening his own restaurant that garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase. He had honed his culinary skills, driven by Shona's love for food and her encouragement to follow his passion. Every dish he cooked carried a piece of her spirit, a taste of the sister who believed in him when he doubted himself.

Ateumu, on the other hand, immersed himself in the world of literature and became a celebrated author. His novels resonated with readers, touching their hearts with well-crafted characters and stories that explored the complexity of human emotions. Through the power of his words, Osamu kept Shona's memory alive, forever grateful for the sister who had nurtured his love for storytelling.

Despite their success, Atsumu and Osamu never forgot the debt they owed to their beloved sister. Each year on her birthday, they would gather at her gravesite, sharing stories of their triumphs and struggles, all the while feeling her presence in the wind and the memories that lingered in their hearts.

But it wasn't just her brothers that Shona had impacted. Throughout her journey, she had touched the lives of countless people who had witnessed her unwavering dedication to her siblings. The story of her selflessness and love spread far and wide, inspiring others to cherish their loved ones and to live each day with purpose and gratitude.

Shona's legacy went beyond her family, inspiring a charitable foundation in her name. The foundation's mission was to support children and families affected by terminal illnesses, ensuring that they received the care and support they needed during their most challenging times. Shona's spirit of selflessness lived on through this organization, offering hope to those who faced similar struggles as she once did.

As time went on, Shona's story became an unwritten chapter in the lives of those who came across it. Her tale served as a constant reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit, of the bonds that tie families together, and of the transformative power of love.

They say life is short, and for Shona Miya, that notion couldn't have been more true. But her time on this earth was not measured merely in years or experiences. It was measured in the profound impact she had on those she loved and those whose lives she had touched.

And so, as the years turned into decades, Shona's story continued to inspire new generations, to remind them of the extraordinary potential that lies within every human soul, and to teach them that even in the face of adversity, love, sacrifice, and the unbreakable bonds between siblings can conquer all And as the sun sets on Shona's story, her brothers, Atsumu and Osamu, stand hand in hand at her gravesite, their love for their sister never fading. They close their eyes, feeling her presence, knowing that her last wish had been fulfilled.

The world continues to turn, and life goes on. But in the hearts and minds of those who knew Shona, her spirit remains a guiding light, a reminder to cherish every moment, to pursue dreams relentlessly, and to always embrace the power of love.

For they say life is short, but the impact we leave behind can ripple through eternity. And Shona Miya's legacy, her selfless love and unwavering support for her brothers, will always be remembered as a testament to the incredible strength of the human spirit.

In the end, Shona's bucket list may have been left unfulfilled, but her brothers, Atsumu and Osamu, picked up the torch, carrying her dreams and desires with them. And in doing so, they not only found success and happiness but also discovered a profound sense of gratitude for the gift of having had Shona as their sister.

Though her time may have been cut short, Shona's impact on the world and the love she shared transcended the bounds of time and space. And in the hearts of those who knew her, her story will forever echo—a reminder of the extraordinary lengths we will go for the ones we love, and the lasting power of our selfless acts.

For in a world where life is indeed too short, Shona Miya's story teaches us that the greatest gift we can give is the happiness and success of those we hold dear. And in that, her spirit lives on, a beacon of love and sacrifice, reminding us all to seize every moment and fill it with the boundless beauty of selfless love.

[swordofsun]

I realized I don't actually talk about what I read on here. At all really. So, let's do a top 5 books of 2022 to end the year!

In no particular order:

Station Eternity by Mur Lafferty

I can absolutely see why people didn't like this book. It's told non-linearly and spends a lot of time making sure you know the back story of each of the characters. At the same time it really dives into the toll being the amateur detective always solving murders that just happen conveniently near to them could take.

Mallory Viridian runs away to an alien space station because if there are no humans around then no one can die and force her to solve their murder. All is going to plan until the space station decides to allow other human visitors. Soon enough there's murder, mayhem, and a mystery to solve.

I personally thought this was a great time. Fun mystery, lots of twists and turns, absolutely bonkers aliens. You know that post about the character who is objectively bad at everything, but somehow manages to kick everyone's ass because she's just that crazy? That character is in here. It's a good sci-fi murder mystery.

The Valley and The Flood by Rebecca Mahoney

I first picked up this book in 2020, decided I wasn't in the right frame of mind to read it and put it down. Picked it back up a couple of months ago and holy shit was it good. This is a book that straddles the line between urban fantasy and magical realism. It explores memory, trauma, ptsd, and how grief changes you as a person. It also explores having compassion when it would be easier to hate and fear the other.

Rose Colter is almost home, but she can’t go back there yet. When her car breaks down in the Nevada desert, the silence of the night is broken by a radio broadcast of a voicemail message from her best friend, Gaby. A message Rose has listened to countless times over the past year. The last one Gaby left before she died.

So Rose follows the lights from the closest radio tower to Lotus Valley, a small town where prophets are a dime a dozen, secrets lurk in every shadow, and the diner pie is legendary. And according to Cassie Cyrene, the town’s third most accurate prophet, they’ve been waiting for her. Because Rose’s arrival is part of a looming prophecy, one that says a flood will destroy Lotus Valley in just three days’ time.

Saint Death's Daughter by C.S.E. Cooney

This book was a joy from beginning to end.

Lanie Stones, the daughter of the Royal Assassin and Chief Executioner of Liriat, has never led a normal life. Born with a gift for necromancy and a literal allergy to violence, she was raised in isolation in the family’s crumbling mansion by her oldest friend, the ancient revenant Goody Graves.

When her parents are murdered, it falls on Lanie and her cheerfully psychotic sister Nita to settle their extensive debts or lose their ancestral home—and Goody with it. Appeals to Liriat's ruler to protect them fall on indifferent ears… until she, too, is murdered, throwing the nation's future into doubt.

Hunted by Liriat’s enemies, hounded by her family’s creditors and terrorised by the ghost of her great-grandfather, Lanie will need more than luck to get through the next few months—but when the goddess of Death is on your side, anything is possible.

This is a story told from the perspective of the necromancer destined to sit at the left hand of the ruler of land built on blood magic. Where great feats of necromancy that results in the complete destruction of neighboring lands are held up with reverence. Yet, it's funny and kind and filled with love. Also at least one undead army.

Nettle and Bone by T. Kingfisher

This was a delight of a fairytale. Not a retelling, just a new fairy tale filled with familial love, found family, and a dog made out of bones. It's about the limits of sacrifice and how far would you go to save your sister.

Marra is the third daughter of her kingdom and sent to live in a convent. She's happy there, but both her sister's were married off to the prince of a more powerful nearby kingdom. One shortly after the death of the other.

Eventually Marra is forced to face the truth about the prince her sisters were forced to marry and formulate a plan to kill him that won't result in more harm done to her surviving sister or their kingdom. She goes to a powerful gravewitch for assistance and from there sets about toppling a kingdom, saving her sister, and maybe finding some love along the way. She definitely makes a dog out of bones.

This was just fun in the way T. Kingfisher does it. Charming quest story. The people they pick up on the way all have their own trials and tribulations. Most importantly, I think, is that Marra doesn't even like the sister she sets out to save (and the sister doesn't like her back), but sometimes something so bad is happening you have to stand up and fix it.

Dead Silence by Stacey Kade

This is horror sci-fi. I found it genuinely terrifying to the point of staying up too late trying to get to a less scary part before going to bed. There are some weak character moments, but the horror elements make up for it, in my opinion.

A deep space repair crew, made up of a motley cast of characters, receives a distress signal from a long lost luxury cruise liner. Facing unemployment after they return home from their last mission they all decided the risk is worth the reward to claim salvage rights. Along the way they'll have to figure out what happened to the ship and it's inhabitants, how did it end up so far away from where it was supposed to be, and are they really seeing the dead walking the corridors.

Spooky space shit. Good read.

So, five of the best books I read this year.

[bluespruce25]

A Life for a Life to Balance the Scales

CW: Suicide/Self-sacrifice

Follow #L4LBS for updates | Up on AO3  | Previous Chapter

Chapter 2 of 5: We Go Together

Lena was working alone in her lab to destroy the last vestiges of Non Nocere and considering where to next apply her mind and energy. She needed a new project but had lost faith in her own ability to create and innovate for good. She stood in front of her lab table, tablet in hand, flicking through files and noting ideas. It was taking longer than anticipated because, despite her best efforts, she found her thoughts frequently turning to Kara, to Supergirl, to Kara Zor-El; to that infuriating blonde who almost ruined her life. The time for berating herself for not seeing it sooner had passed. Now, she was working to reconcile the three of them in her mind, hoping to find an answer there that would provide clarity and direction on how to proceed. She wasn’t sure if she had forgiven Kara, but she was finally ready to admit that she still loved her; admit to herself that is; this was not something she would ever admit to Kara. If the revelation of Kara’s secret had proven anything, it was that Kara could not possibly return her feelings. Kara could not be in love with her and yet lie to her every moment they spent together. The way Kara treated her, that was not love. Then again, Lena asked herself with a sigh, “What do I know of love?”

Lost in her daydreams, Lena almost missed the notifications that popped up on the screen of her monitor, then on her tablet, as they filled her displays with increasing urgency. Startled out of her reverie by a particularly aggressive alert in bold red text, Lena swiveled to her computer and started frantically typing. 

“No. No no no no no, this can’t be right. This doesn’t make any sense.”

“Unless.”

“Oh god, Kara !”

Lena grabbed her tablet and her bag and ran out the door of the lab.

---

Alex was standing at the war table in the middle of the control room looking wistfully at the second floor balcony. She could just make out the tops of heads where the Superfriends were gathered around Brainy when Lena Luthor came crashing into her line of vision. 

Alex was momentarily stunned because there was no universe in which Lena Luther  crashed into a room. As Lena flailed herself into a full stop in front of Alex, the agent managed to close her mouth and regain her composure, if just barely.

“It’s Kara, the Sun. Have you seen these readings?”

“Woah, woah there killer. Slow down.” Alex put her hands out as if to steady Lena. 

“Alex! Have you seen these readings?!” 

“Lena, what are you talking about?” Alex asked as Lena pulled her tablet out of her bag and thrust it in front of Alex’s face. 

From what Alex could tell, LuthorCorp’s satellites in deep space had picked up on a massive solar flare. These readings showed one of the most prolific solar flares ever witnessed on Earth. 

“Lena, I know. We all saw this two days ago. It’s been all over the news ever since. We are still seeing the geomagnetic storms today. Power has gone out all over the city and half of the country’s servers are down. So much for cloud computing.”

“Alex.”

Alex, looked up. She had never seen Lena Luthor look this disheveled, even with about a dozen assasination attempts in her frame of reference. Lena’s expression was almost wild. Her hair was somewhat disheveled and she was still breathing heavily from running into the room. The flush was resting high in her cheeks and her eyes were wide, frantic. Alex cocked her eyebrow and grasped Lena’s elbow, waiting for her to collect herself enough to elaborate.

“Look at the energy readings. Look at the radiation signature.” Lena was jabbing her finger into the tablet hard enough to make an audible noise.

Alex went pale and looked down at the tablet with new understanding. She felt as the blood drained out of her internal organs. She suddenly didn’t feel quite steady on her own two feet. 

“Lena…” Alex said, though barely a whisper. “Lena, these indicators... I don’t know anything that would show up like this...not unless.” 

Alex looked up at Lena expectantly, waiting for Lena to tell her that she’s wrong; waiting for the prodigal genius to explain the real reason why the solar flare is giving off readings that would only be possible if a Kryptonian had flung themselves bodily into the sun. 

“Alex. Where’s Kara?” Alex opened her mouth, “I...she-,” but she couldn’t finish her answer. Lena repeated, “ Where. Is. Kara? ”

Alex continued to stare unseeing at a nondescript point in space somewhere in the vicinity of Lena’s face.

“ALEX, WHERE IS SHE?! ”

Lena was screaming at Alex and tears were raining down from her cheeks onto the cool polished marble of the DEO floor, but Alex couldn’t move. Alex couldn’t think or breathe or  move. 

---

Eventually, the sound of Lena crying out wordlessly in pain snapped the agent out of it. She turned on her heel and addressed Vasquez at the control panel. 

“Pull up everything we have on the solar flare two days ago. I want radiation signatures, energy readings, thermal imaging, EVERYTHING WE HAVE. And I need it NOW.”

“Yes, ma’am. Right away, Director Danvers.”

Alex was lost in her own thoughts while her agents worked,  this cannot be happening. She wouldn’t. She couldn’t do that to us. She doesn’t even have powers in space. It’s not even possible. How would she even get there?

Alex’s body went cold as realization washed over her. Reaching for her phone, she dialed Clark. She turned to face Lena, as she spoke into the phone, “Clark, it’s about Kara. No time to explain. I need you to go to the fortress. Now. As fast as you can. Call me when you get there.”

“Thank you, Clark.” 

Lena was standing with her arms down, holding her bag with both hands in front of her. She had regained her composure and the mask Alex was so used to seeing had slipped back into place. The only hint of thoughts hiding behind it was the flash of panic in the way she moved her eyes; the set of her mouth, her lips pressed so thin they may as well be nonexistent, as if she could press her mouth closed hard enough to keep her pain contained inside. 

She opened it carefully to ask, “Alex, when did you last see her?”

“She was here two days ago checking on Brainy. She said something about making Lex pay for his crimes and…” Alex reached out and grasped Lena’s left bicep. “Lena, I think she was saying goodbye.” Alex turned to face the empty foyer, the balcony Supergirl used as a personal entrance. “Oh my god. Kara, what have you done?”

“Alex... Director Danvers! ,” Lena grabbed Alex’s arm and shook her as Alex tried to bury her head in her hands, “What did she say about Lex? What was she going to do to him? Does she know where he is?” 

“I don’t know. She didn’t say. She just said that he had to pay. That she had to do it for all of us. Lena, I’ve never seen her like that. I think...I think Kara was going to  kill  Lex.”

“Lex hasn’t been to LuthorCorp in two days. It came up at a board meeting this morning. I assumed that he was skipping town because Brainy had been found and Leviathan defeated.”

Lena turned to Alex again, interrupting her pacing, “Alex, what if she did it? What if Supergirl killed Lex Luthor?”

“Supergirl does not kill.”

“Then where is she?”

 ***

One thing no one counted on, certainly not Lex, was that Kara had spent a lot of time thinking while she was at the Vanishing Point with all the other Paragons. She still had all her powers, including her superhearing. There was no time at the Vanishing Point, no sun to rise or set, no rhythm to life but the rhythm they gave it. Their bodies were frozen in a moment outside of time and space. The only cycle was the unending dance of sleep and awareness. It had been her little secret that when she couldn’t rest, couldn’t turn off her mind, she would listen to the heartbeats of the other Paragons. Just like she did with Alex’s in Midvale and Lena’s in National City. It was the soundtrack to her misery, her anchor in the void. It was a coping mechanism; meditative almost. It wasn’t too long until she had memorized the heartbeats of every Paragon; including Lex Luthor. 

You see, he might have known every power she possessed through his copious research on Kal El, but there’s one secret she’d never given away to anyone. One trick that only she knew, and for once, she could be one step ahead of him in his sick game of chess. She would only have one shot to play this card. 

So there she was, hovering high over LuthorCorp, sending out her hearing all across the city, looking for the signature heartbeat she had decided to stop forever. 

It took longer than she expected; hours in fact. She knew it would be difficult. Lex traveled in lead-lined and soundproofed cars, and lived and worked in lead-lined and soundproofed rooms. He had built his whole life around thwarting Kal El. But even Lex Luthor had to leave his bubble of safety occasionally. 

As soon as he stepped out of the car, she heard it. On the corner of 8th and Main. Using her x-ray vision she narrowed in on a barber shop. Of course his vanity would be his downfall. The beginnings of a smile lifted the corner of her mouth, but it didn’t last long as she steeled herself for what came next.

Lex was lounging in his favorite barber’s chair at the very back of the shop, a warm towel over his face in preparation for his first close shave since Crisis, and boy was he looking forward to it. Lex was a regular at Al’s Corner Shop. He had been relieved to see it still standing in the same place after his return from saving the universe, it was the one thing he hadn’t considered in his adventure with the Book of Destiny, but he was glad that his rare oversight hadn’t cost him the best shave he’d ever found. 

As he sat there with a smug grin plastered on his face under a hot towel, he heard the bells on the door jangle against each other when another customer came in. He lost track of the footsteps as he ruminated on the pros and cons of bribing Al to work for him exclusively in the comfort of his own home. His smile faltered as he realized that the footsteps accompanying the new customer were still moving closer, too close. They should have stopped and deposited the offending stranger in a chair further down the row, closer to the door. Instead, the footsteps came to a stop right behind him. He barely had time to rip the towel off his face. He started to stand, ready to unleash a torrent of vitriol on the person arrogant enough to interrupt his  only  time of relaxation, when he saw the blue and red of the suit standing over him.  

He froze. 

“Supergirl, ” he hissed. He sat back down hard into the chair. His mind immediately started spinning his go-to villain speech, as he straightened his shoulders and smoothed his features into calm neutrality. He decided to start with, “To what do I owe the pleasure?”

Before he finished the lilt on the end of the question, he was airborne. It seemed that Supergirl was no longer tolerant of the melodramatics of villains’ speeches and heroes’ pleas. He would have found this an amusing discovery, were it not that he was currently being flown across the city at mach speed; his body thrown helplessly over Supergirl’s shoulder like a sack of potatoes. He lost consciousness as they broke the sound barrier somewhere over Saskatchewan. 

***

 They were gathered around the war table. Alex was bent over a tablet studying the latest readings, Nia was standing behind Brainy who, against everyone’s advice, was out of bed and sitting in a wheelchair looking up at the control room screens trying to piece together any other possible explanation for what Lena had already deduced. 

Kelly was pacing behind them, on the phone with James who was at his gate waiting to board the first flight back to National City. 

Lena was standing off to the side, her bag still held in both hands in front of her. She looked like a statue, so still that no one had noticed her in almost an hour. Lena remembered a time when she had been at the center of this camaraderie, when her advice had been sought and she had been intimately involved in reviewing the data and making the plans. Now she was just a witness to other people’s pain.  “I will not let them be a witness to mine,” she thought as she checked her dispassionate mask vigilantly. Her hands went to the watch stowed in her purse, to the button she had been pressing over, and over again for hours. She knew that if Kara were still on Earth, she would have found a way to be there by now.

---

Everything stopped as soon as Alex’s phone rang on the war table. They all rushed to the table. Even Lena was stirred from the shadows to move towards the lifeline on the other end of the call. Alex put it on speaker for the Superfriends to hear:

AD: “Clark...”

CK: “Alex, she’s not here. Hold on, is that the crest off her suit? It’s just sitting here, like it’s on display or something. What is going on?”

AD: “What do you mean the crest? Does it look intentional? Did she put it there?”

CK:“Alex, I don’t know. Kelex said that she was here two days ago with a man and then. Hold on.”

[In the background, they heard Clark ask Kelex, “What pod? Show me.”]

AD: “Clark, what’s going on? Was that Kelex? Does he know where she went?”

CK: “Alex. [Clark’s voice was muffled. They heard him sniffing through his nose.] Alex, she’s gone. She took my pod. Kelex said she programmed it to fly into the sun. He tried to stop her but she commanded him.”

AD: “The sun? Clark-”

CK: “Alex, that’s not all. Kelex said that she brought someone here with her. He showed me the surveillance. It was Lex. She brought Lex here and she injected him with something. Alex, I think Lex...is... is dead. She put him in the pod and she flew off into the sun with his body.”

CK: “...Alex? Alex, are you there?  Alex ?!”

Alex couldn’t hear him anymore. Alex couldn’t hear anyone or anything. Alex couldn’t move or speak or think. She barely registered as the phone dropped out of her hand and smashed to pieces against the polished concrete of the DEO floor. She saw everyone’s eyes on her, watched as they moved toward her in slow motion. She saw their mouths move, their faces twist in shouts, but she heard nothing.

“ Kara-”

The tilting world blinked in front of her eyes once, twice, and then everything went black. 

 ***

Lex came-to a while later in what could only be the fortress. “You know, Supergirl, this isn’t quite how I imagined my next visit to the Fortress of Solitude, but I have to thank you for helping me get here,” he said with narrowed eyes and a smug lopsided grin on his lips. 

Kara wanted nothing more than to wipe the smirk off his face with a backhand to the mouth, but she kept her composure. His time to taunt was nearing its end, and he hadn’t yet come to realize it. 

Bound to his chair with the crystalline ice of the Fortress, Lex surveyed his surroundings. He noticed that his transmat portal watch had been removed at some point and he looked up just as Supergirl seemed to finish x-raying his body for any other devices. 

“What do you want?” Lex asked, uncharacteristically lacking in snark this time. 

Supergirl said nothing as she fiddled with a syringe full of clear liquid. 

His eyes grew three sizes as she walked over to where he was sitting. 

Without fanfare, without speeches, or explanation, Supergirl inserted the syringe into his carotid artery and depressed the plunger fully; only then did she speak.

“Lex Luthor, you have murdered countless citizens of Earth. You have been sentenced to 31 consecutive lifetime sentences. You broke out of prison while serving that term and promptly murdered again. You were largely responsible for the mass extinction event known as Crisis and are, therefore, responsible for the deaths of untold trillions. For these crimes, and those you will inevitably commit in the future, I cannot allow you to live.”

Kara turned her back to Lex and sighed, “You should have stayed dead when Lena killed you the first time.”

Lex raged against his bonds, “What have you done to me?!” 

He felt his limbs getting heavier. It was getting harder to keep his eyes open. Kara leveled her gaze at him, her eyes full of pity and sorrow. 

“It was the most humane way. It will be over soon. You won’t feel it; I made sure of that. If you calmed down, it might even be peaceful.”

Lex broke out into a toothy smile. “You’ll never come back from this. Killing me will haunt you until the day you die. And as a Kryptonian, you’ll have eternity to agonize over this choice. It will eat you alive. You may kill me, but you will never survive it,  Supergirl  ,” he spit the last word back at her; his eyes barely open, his head starting to sag off his shoulders, his posture slipping.

Supergirl closed the gap between them, slowly, deliberately. She reached one hand gently under his chin and raised it so his eyes could meet her own.

“You’re right Lex. This time, we go together.”

His eyes showed just the barest flicker of confusion before he went slack. Supergirl dropped to one knee, hanging her head as she listened while his heartbeat slowed, and eventually came to a stop. She x-rayed his chest, just to be certain and found it still, eerily still. 

---

The one thing Lex Luthor never counted on, could never understand, was that not only would Supergirl sacrifice her life to protect her friends, but after Crisis, she would sacrifice her soul. It just so happened that she was destined to sacrifice both to kill him. 

Kara let out a shaky breath as she knelt next to Lex’s body. She didn’t know how to feel. She’d never once killed on purpose. It went against everything that she was; everything that she believed in. Kara knew that as Lex’s heart stopped beating, Supergirl ceased to exist. 

Kara stood and, without using her powers, she peeled the crest of the great House of El off of her suit. She couldn’t bear to wear her house crest any longer. Where she was going, she had to go alone. El Mayyarah had gotten her far, but it couldn’t go with her to meet her end. 

Kara cleansed Lex’s body in the Kryptonian way and gave him full funeral rights in the only manner she knew. She gently placed his body into the back of Kal-El’s repaired pod and climbed into the pilot’s seat. 

It was a tight squeeze for both of them, the pod gave Kara flashbacks to her time in the Phantom Zone, triggering what would probably be her last claustrophobia-induced panic attack. The dead body of her arch nemesis laying just behind her didn’t bring her any added comfort. 

Once she recovered, she took a deep breath and sealed the pod. She raised her hand to the pad in front of her and began to key in the coordinates for their destination. Halfway through, she had trouble making out the Kryptonian glyphs through her blurred vision. She reached a hand to her cheeks and noted with detachment that it came away covered in warm wetness. She raised her eyebrows but couldn't reach deep enough to be surprised.

She wiped her eyes and carried on entering the coordinates. Once she was done, she turned to Kelex standing outside the pod at the command module. “Kelex, initiate the launch sequence.”

“I feel it is my duty to warn you that the coordinates you have entered - “

Kara mustered the last piece of courage she possessed. She raised her chin and steeled her eyes, and in a decisive tone Kara declared, “I am Kara Zor-El, Last Daughter of Krypton, and I command you to initiate the launch sequence.” 

Taken aback, but bowing to her authority, Kelex replied, “As you wish, Kara Zor-El. May your journey bring you peace”

With that, Kara felt the pod rumble as the engine kicked on for the first time in over thirty years. 

With one last look at Kelex, she was flung out into the atmosphere on a parabolic trajectory into space. 

***

Small sounds started to grate against her consciousness. She could hear incessant beeping and murmuring. As she opened her eyes, Alex’s field of vision was flooded with the harsh, white lighting of the med bay. After a few moments of blinking her eyes into focus, she could make out the medical equipment and the dark blobs around the edge of her vision solidified into her friends’ faces. Nia & Brainy, James & Kelly, even Clark was there standing vigil over her. 

As she blinked again and looked up to the tall figure looming over her, she let out a sob, not expecting to see J’onn’s worried eyes looking back at her. 

“J’onn...Kara…she-”

“I know, Alex. I know.” J’onn whispered in a soothing tone, trying to keep the tears from spilling over, “just get some rest for now. We will talk more when you’re ready.” He carefully brushed her hair off her forehead and leaned down to place a gentle kiss on the top of her head. With that, he moved towards the door. 

“Alex?”

The agent turned back to look at him as he paused on his way out, an earnest look on his face.

“I love you; so very much.”

Alex just nodded, pressing her lips together to stop the sobs from escaping. 

The rest of her friends followed shortly after, leaving with soft pats on her knees and feet, squeezes of her hand, mumbling words she just couldn’t care enough to try to decipher.

As they funneled out one by one, only Kelly remained. Even Brainy wheeled himself away from the bed next to hers to give them their privacy. The idea that he shouldn’t be out of bed lest he compromise his recovery briefly flitted across Alex’s mind as she pursed her lips, but it just wouldn’t stick. She couldn’t bring herself to care about anything, or anyone. She closed her eyes against the torrent of feelings and memories that threatened to overwhelm her.

“Hey,” Kelly started softly, “talk to me. What are you feeling?”

Alex just shook her head, eyes closed and mouth shut firmly against whatever she might have said.

“Okay. Okay, it’s okay. Can I just sit here with you? Hold your hand?” Kelly asked.

Alex dipped her head just enough to be taken as acquiescence. The agent would’ve given anything to go back to the void of unconsciousness. She ran her fingers through her short hair, remembering the days before the DEO where she drowned her own feelings of failure in the bottom of a bottle. Somehow she knew that Kelly wouldn’t let that kind of self-destructive behavior slide this time. Alex sighed and dropped her chin to her chest. She might as well start talking because Kelly was nothing if not patient. They both knew who would  win the waiting game.

Alex’s voice cracked as she attempted to untangle her thoughts, “I have always,  always, had faith that the universe would bring her back to me. Through everything, when her brain was altered on Red K, when Cadmus and Lillian kidnapped her and Mon-El, when Mon-El left and Kara...” Alex choked back a sob. Now that she’d started, she couldn’t stop, “...when Supergirl tried to destroy Kara Danvers. Every single time she set off into the multiverse with Barry. Even during Crisis. I always knew that she would come back to me; that she would find a way back. She’s the god damn Paragon of Hope for christ’s sake.” Alex threw her hands up and out towards the end of her bed in an exasperated half-shrug. 

“This time is different, Kel. This feels... real.” Alex looked up into Kelly’s eyes, trying to convey wordlessly the feeling settling over her, the finality of it. “I don’t think she’s coming back from this one and I don’t -” Alex sobbed uncontrollably so that Kelly just barely made out her next words, “- I don’t know who I am without her.”

Kelly took the hand closest to her on the bed in both of hers. She thought of a million things to say, a million ways to reassure Alex that there was far more to her than her relationship to sister, that she was her own person before Kara came into her life and that she would be her own person now. She considered trying to reassure her that everything would be okay, but immediately the therapist in her shot that idea down,  hard . This would never be okay, even if someday Alex would be. Kelly sighed softly and eventually settled on silence. She crawled into Alex’s bed and held the red headed woman until she drifted back to sleep, spent from the grief spilling out of her in endless tears. 

As she slept, Alex muttered the same thing over and over, one name,  Kara. 

It was Kelly’s turn to cry, softly so as to avoid waking Alex. She let the tears flow freely and tried to keep her body from being wracked by the sobs threatening to crush her resolve. She reached out to gently cradle Alex’s cheek, pulling her even closer. “I’m so sorry, Alex. I’m so sorry.”

---

“Alex, it is time. Enough of this. You cannot stay in bed like this any longer. We  need  you, Alex. The rest of us still  need  you.” J’onn implored Alex, but there wasn’t even a flicker of recognition across her face. Alex wasn’t there. She was awake, but the lights were off and no one was home. “Alex, it’s been a week. You have to get up and you have to get out of bed.” Still nothing, Alex just stared straight ahead out of the glass panels of the wall in front of her. She hadn’t said anything since her brief discussion with Kelly. She wasn’t eating, and for the time being they had been giving her IV nutrition, but if she didn’t eat that day they were facing a feeding tube. J’onn said as much, but Zombie Alex gave no indication that she’d heard him. 

J’onn sighed. Hands on his hips, he turned away from her to face out over the DEO. He watched as Eliza held Kelly outside Alex’s room. He shook his head, mind made up. He had planned to wait until she recovered, but there was no sense in that now. If he didn’t tell her now, then she may never recover, and then, what was the point. He walked over to sit on the edge of her bed and Alex’s eyes flickered to his for just a moment before darting away again. 

“She left you a message, Alex.” J’onn said softly. “She recorded her goodbyes on Sunstone Crystals in the pod. She sent the pod to Earth, but the solar flare knocked it off course. It landed on Mars. That’s how I knew to come back. That’s why I’m here.”

This seemed to rouse something in her. Alex looked at J’onn, the emptiness in her eyes breaking his heart, but he couldn’t force himself to break contact. 

“Alex, you have to listen to her. You have to give her the chance to say goodbye. You owe her that much.”

Alex’s eyes snapped back straight-ahead. She opened her mouth for the first time in almost a week, “I don’t  owe her  anything.”

J’onn sighed and patted her leg, getting up to leave. He paused and said, “When you’re ready; I’ll keep it safe for you.”

He hazarded one last look back at her before leaving, her cheeks were glossy with tears as she cried silently. Alone. 

***

Kara had hours to kill until they reached their destination. She had to do something to drown out the voice in her head, the voice of the dead man on the floor behind her seat; to drown out her own doubts and regrets. 

She decided to use those regrets as inspiration; to use her last few hours to continue her work as the Paragon of Hope, even if Supergirl was no more. Taking out a handful of Sunstone Crystals - small, pale, and long, about the size and shape of a tube of lipstick, albeit more angular - she set to work saying goodbye. She knew that her friends would never understand, but at least it could bring her some peace on her journey. 

Alex. 

Alex would never understand. Kara was so grateful that Alex had Kelly. She knew that Kelly would help her sister navigate her grief. The therapist in Kelly would never allow Alex to fall into the dark, but that didn’t mean that Kara can’t try to do her part to help give Alex some closure. 

What do you say to everyone who has loved you, supported you, and guided you when it’s time to say goodbye?

---

Kara placed the last Sunstone Crystal in the console as her destination loomed before her. She wiped her eyes, closing them before the last tear could fall. She powered down the engines of the pod to give herself a moment more time, to decide how to do this. She programmed the pod to hover in place while she made her preparations. She pulled out a small metal box and placed it between the empty, broken stitches where the crest of the House of El used to sit. Slowly, the enhanced suit that Lena designed for her unfurled, covering her usual suit and then encapsulating her face in a helmet-like design. If she was going to have enough time to finish her plan, she had to have some protection from the raw violence of open space. Kara placed a hand over the crest she knew she no longer deserved to bear. She had forgotten that Lena’s suit would also bear the crest. Apparently, it was her fate to be unable to escape the shadow of her family; of her lost world and her responsibility to Earth. 

Taking a shaky breath, Kara opened the pod hatch, exposing them to the full elements of the sun. Kara couldn’t fly in space, but with the pod hovering in place, she could maneuver around it, as long as she stayed tethered. 

She got to work extricating Lex’s body from the pod. A process that was much more difficult than getting him in originally. It wasn’t helped by how intensely she felt her powers, the energy of the yellow sun coursing through her. “  At least I can’t hurt him,  ” she thought sarcastically. 

Finally, she got him out of the pod. Then she grabbed a Kryptonian shroud, her old cape, originally a piece of Kal El’s baby blanket. She wrapped it around his supine body and whispered a Kryptonian prayer as she secured it to the best of her ability. 

She turned toward her target and closed her eyes for a moment, soaking in the rays of the sun. As she opened them again she gazed upon it. The source of her power, of her identity on earth, was now closer than any human could survive. She turned Lex so the head of his body was facing the sun and she gave him a gentle send off. She watched as his body drifted closer and closer to the surface of the sun, gaining speed as the gravity increased, until suddenly in a flash of light he was enveloped in the surge of a solar flare. Kara continued to hover next to the pod for a few minutes, allowing this new reality to sink in, a reality where Lex was dead; where Supergirl killed him; where she, Kara Zor-El, personally escorted him to the sun where he was engulfed in this bright, glowing source of energy and life. It was poetic, she thought, that his body should return to the very thing that gave her and her cousin their powers. That he should return to the very thing that  made  the people he hated most in the world. 

Kara sighed. She couldn’t delay the inevitable any further. It was her turn to return to the sun, to the source of her power. It was her turn to be cleansed of her crimes, to be cleansed of murdering Lex. 

“I do not kill.” 

She said it to herself, but also to Rao. She had violated her most sacred moral oath and she must now pay the price. Her purpose was once to protect Kal El, but since landing on earth so many years after him, it had transformed into protecting the citizens of Earth. Now that she had murdered a human, she could no longer be a force for good. 

Kara tugged once on the tether to bring her back to the pod. Without getting in, she reached her hand up to program the coordinates of Earth. She programmed the pod with a delay so that it could record her final moments. She rested her hand for a moment on the console, taking a deep breath as she drew from the calming force of her home planet’s presence in the pod. Opening her eyes, she detached the tether and placed it back on the seat. She hit the autopilot button and pushed off as the hatch slid itself closed. Turning her back to the pod, she pushed off of it with one arm to float gently towards the sun. 

As the sun got closer and closer, Kara spread her arms wide, bending her left leg slightly at the knee, like she used to do so often when hovering on Earth just before she landed somewhere. She closed her eyes as she felt the gravity pull her in, accelerating her towards her end. At the last second, she lifted her chin and met the sun as an old friend. She felt no pain, as in a flash, she was welcomed home.

***

Next Chapter

[swanqueensalad]

You got me talking Dark Emma! Oh Jeez, From the Emma Side. I don’t know if I can send an ask this long but I’m soo gonna try! Sorry for Grammar/Word Vomit.

When they were doing Dark Emma I was hoping for more from Emma! She was an Abandoned street kid from the foster system, they barely graze that.

Yes she knows the reasons why, they briefly touch on that in S2 but, they never touch on that trauma full on, I would have LOVED to have seen Emma in Foster Care. To show what they meant in S1 when she was let her background out with Henry at the original castle. (I think that’s the scene.) S3 We See “Lost Girl” we hear the feeling and the story of her being alone but we don’t really see very much of it I don’t think.

To have seen Dark Emma touch on that would have been awesome because like you said, the antithesis of what she is as the savior. So much to unpack I would have loved to have seen fate and destiny come up here. (especially if S6 was going of be as weird as it was.)

I’d love to see Emma be pissed about her destiny as the savior, the toll it took on her. Show more on the insanity of the darkness Her background of never being anything special to, 28 almost 30 and being The Savior- to the Fairytales.

I’d love to see the Snow/Charming/Emma family dynamic here to. It’s the antithesis of Emma! Show the angst there and the complexity you built.

What are your thoughts on this subject? I’d love to hear this in correlation to your thoughts on Regina and well being the castor to all of this and the Emma/Regina Dynamic.

Sorry for this Chaos. 😂

-Runs Away because I don’t do this-

don't apologise or run away! this is such a good ask, loved reading through it. i agree with you 10000% and when i talk about the wasted potential of this arc, a huge chunk of what i mean is how much was there to be explored in emma as a character. exactly what you said, her childhood, her lingering resentment, her relationship to her role as 'the saviour'...

so of course i am going to take this opportunity to do an emma companion to yesterday's ramble!

so yeah, the giant antithesis you talk about; going from being nothing, to being the saviour, to being the dark one. that's SO MUCH and none of it was ever explored properly. emma swan was honestly one of the most interesting protagonists whose 'reluctant hero' journey was actually complex and understandable unlike many and... yup, they abandoned it all in favour of silly stories about a sexy pirate man

again, i want to draw the focus to the season STARTING with emma sacrificing herself for regina. for emma as well as gina, this was huge. i don't think emma ever saw herself as the great destined saviour/hero she was, so her sacrifice in terms of that was never a big intentional thing - she just saw the woman she loved in danger and could not stand to let it happen. she had to save her no matter what the cost, and if the cost was her own goodness, well. emma never put as much stock in that as everyone else did for her anyway. she made a promise to regina that she would help her find her happy ending. and she did.

i really think emma acted out of pure instinct and panic. we know it is her instinct to protect regina above anything, even her own safety. she didn't think it through. she just threw herself to the darkness to save her, and then...

then she would have to deal with the fact that she did that. in front of all her family. in front of h00k. they SAW that raw panic in her, they saw that her priority was regina over herself, over her place in her destiny, over the man she was supposed to love. this was the closest emma ever came to a public declaration of her feelings imo and in emma's gay paranoia brain too, i'm sure.

so while we have regina grappling with how and why emma could do that for her, we have emma suddenly fucking buried in defensiveness and trying to recover from that lapse in her own repression. this is why every time regina tries to talk about it with her she shuts off. refuses to confide in her parents, though we all know snow sees and knows deep down. this is why it makes sense for her to cling to h00k as a beard, a distraction from her greatest heroic act of love

(but at the same time, emma does not regret it. she kicks herself for being reckless and not thinking stuff through, but she does not regret it. she would do it a hundred times over if she had to.)

it also makes perfect sense she trusts regina with her dagger over anyone and she rationalises this well (she has frequently been the one to keep regina in check, to look after the bigger picture and they both know they know each other better than anyone, enough to make those decisions) but then again, this pushes her deeper into defensiveness and repression to counteract the fact rumple gave belle his dagger (as a fucking marriage proposal too)

i would have loved to see emma grappling with the things you mentioned. i would have loved a return to the complex emma of season 1: because through s1, we saw emma grow and develop from a very closed off, defensive loner who wanted nothing to do with anyone, to a fiercely protective mother and eventual reluctant hero. but that journey was not easy.

like you say, emma grew up alone. it's implied she stuck up for herself most of the time because if she didn't, no one would. she had to learn at a very young age how to hang on to her food, her possessions, her time. she was a skilled thief and used to living out on her own. she was incredibly resilient and selfish and closed off because ever since she was a kid, that was how she survived. she didn't know any different.

and then of course she let neal in and he betrayed her in the worst way, and after that adult emma found her way to a job she liked and was good at (that often involved beating criminals up... hello unresolved anger) and lived in her shitty apartment by herself, taking 'care' of herself in same, bitter, bare minimum way she had always known as 'normal' . she learned very early on she was not special.

and then... she suddenly is the most special. the fated hero, destined to rescue her family and all their people, and of course she doesn't believe in anything, she believes in survival and harsh realities, but god she starts to believe in her son, to love him, to let him in and want to protect him and fight for something and then everything is real and she has almost no time to reconcile any of this before she is thrown off on one adventure and the next

i love the arc with her and snow in 2a where they slowly reconcile their former friendship with the new parent/child dynamic, but so much more was there to be explored. emma grew up with so much longing and resentment for both parents and then finding out they are snow white and prince charming? not great for a morally grey lesbian with identity issues, or for any kind of realism, plus so much more pressure to be some hero she never wanted to be in the first place

(and THEN on top of that her burgeoning darkness bursting out of her throughout 4a with nowhere to go, and the realisation of how terrified her parents were that she wouldn't be the perfect hero, of what they did to maleficent just to ensure she would be... fuck)

dark swan arc SHOULD have given emma the space, time and capacity for darkness to explore all of this.

to process in a way she had never been able to before, because she was too busy having to be the hero

well. now she's not the hero anymore, is she? now she is the dark one and oh boy does the darkness have a lot of repressed stuff to feed on...

i wanted to see emma exploring all that pain and fury of her childhood self. i wanted to see her finally snapping at her parents and letting everything out, some kind of climactic scene where she tells them they weren't there for anything, they chose to give her up, that she never asked for her destiny, never wanted it

and i wanted to see SNOW (my beautiful, complex, well written and real snow of the early seasons) dealing with all of this, coming to terms with what they did to mal and feeling that grief and guilt, mourning emma's lost childhood and trying to comfort regina through it while knowing emma needs this. that she deserves this.

i wanted dark one emma to be more like, well, emma.

not like every other villain, pretending to taunt and murmur threats and everything else they forced on her for no reason. i wanted to see emma at her darkest: bitter, selfish, cut off from her feelings and those of the people around her, dismissive of their fairytale bullshit. making the most harsh and grating jokes about things. not giving a fuck about anything or anyone. swaggering and messy and defensive

a dark emma who would be dismissive of hook and weirdly obsessive about regina (pushing her around and taunting her like season one emma but with the added years of connection, complexity, willingness to die for each other with no willingness to speak about any of it at all)

an emma with the voices of all the dark ones in her head, vocalising all the things she usually never let herself think, pushing her over the edge

(and of course, i wanted regina's true love's kiss to be what pulled her out of it. but i also wanted emma as the dark one to have the genuine time to work through all her unresolved issues, to release all that pent up anger and frustration that was never quite reconciled.)

[bleachhaven]

Congrats on 1500 followers😊😊😊 can I request NSFW headcanons/scenario of Shunsui coming home late and waking up his wife for sex💋 Thanks!!!

Yes please goddamn it! I love these request for everyone’s favorite Bleach husband!

I have many feels about this man and I intended to write headcanons but this turned into a scenario instead. So this turned out to be almost 1900 words. I clearly got carried away, and it is evident that I have thought about this scenario way too much. I won’t apologize for it. Shunsui seduced me by simply existing!

Kyouraku Shunsui comes home late to wake up his wife for some lovin’ (smut)

One would think that after 10 years of being the new Soutaicho, Shunsui would be able to come home at a decent time. He does have two, not just one, fuktaichos after all. But that’s not the case most of the time. The Soutaicho’s work is never really over and definitely never on a time that was convenient for him or the people in his life.

With both him and his wife being in the Gotei 13, their busy schedules almost always ensures that they keep missing each other even if they do indeed live in the same house.

Sure they’d carve out time to be with each other, plan elaborate date nights overlooking sunsets with extravagant picnics...but still his job did take its toll. Some nights they’d both be home at a relatively decent time but they would be far too exhausted to do anything other than take a quick shower and go to sleep.

Lately, it’s been busier than most. The new Taicho of the 13th Division was being finally appointed. Kuchiki Rukia was an exemplary candidate, and Shunsui had every faith that she would do right by the division that was once held by his beloved best friend, but the paperwork for the new appointment and subsequent transition was, to put it mildly, a pain in the ass.

Today had been hectic. His last responsibility had been to visit the 13th Division’s barracks and make sure all the finer details were finalized with Rukia. Sure, someone else could have done it and he would have passed it on to the nearest unsuspecting subordinate had it been any other division. But it wasn’t. It was the 13th and the 13th was always Juu’s. Shunsui had to do it himself. It was the right thing to do.

However, that hadn’t really gone well at all. 

The official business was, of course, successfully concluded. Nanao-chan had taken care of everything, and Rukia was not only ready but eager to take on her responsibilities starting tomorrow, after the official announcement at the Taichos’ meeting. 

Except, walking past the Ugendo, and being reminded that Jushiro wasn’t there...it had put him in quite the dark mood. This announcement meant an ending he really was not yet ready to face. The 13th would no longer be Juu’s. Just another reminder that his best friend was gone and never coming back. It was...just painful in a purely illogical and gut wrenching way.

He’d wandered the seireitei streets, hoping to lose the cloud over his mind so he didn’t take it back home to his unsuspecting wife, but it hadn’t helped much.

When he finally got home, she was fast asleep. Maybe that was for the best. If she had been awake, she would have definitely wanted to talk it out with him. She could sense his mood in an uncanny way. But Shunsui wasn’t in a mind to talk. Not tonight.

They weren’t the kind of couple to wear fancy nightclothes to bed. In fact, they both chose not to wear anything at all. Shunsui’s body anyway ran quite warm and clothes would feel suffocating, so he slept fully nude. When he first met his wife, she loved her cute pyjamas and sexy négligée. Of course he couldn’t resist her in them. But after a while, he succeeded in convincing her the benefits of sleeping nude. Now, he knew, she wore nothing but panties under the covers.

He quickly took a shower to wash away the day’s grime and dried himself before dropping the towel on the floor. His wife would have his head for him leaving it there but...he had a lot on his mind tonight. 

He slowly walked up to the bed and stood there for a moment looking down at her. She looked so peaceful as she slept. No concerns furrowed her brows, and her lashes rested upon her smooth cheeks. She was sleeping on her side, facing the side on which Shunsui slept, her hand reaching out as if she meant to hold him. As if she yearned for him in his absence. 

The sheets were bunched up, barely covering her. One shapely calf teased him, inviting to be touched. He had no intentions of  resisting he temptation. He slowly ran his hand up her calf, feeling the smoothness and the firmness of her leg all the way up to her knee. He kept moving upward, lifting the sheet as he went, to rest his hand on her thigh.

She stirred a bit, and twisted away to lie flat upon her back. He quickly retracted his hand. He didn’t want to wake her. Not yet anyway.

When she moved, the sheet moved with her, unwrapping her like she was his favorite candy ready to be devoured. Her curves in all their glory were bared to his eye.

Her nipples were already pebbling, teased by the cold air in the room. He aided the task by moving his index finger up over her abdomen, his touch so slow and feather light. He flicked a nipple and watched it stand upright as if begging for his mouth.

His mind made up, he climbed up on the bed. He took his time, unrestrained by anything demanding upon him. Tonight, even his wife couldn’t distract him by trying to pleasure him. Instead, he got to explore her body as he wished to do so.

He moved over her delicate neck, the back of his hand caressing the soft skin there. Usually, whenever they made love, he worshipped her body as if it’s the only religion he’d ever known. But tonight, his mood was different. Tonight, he wanted to devour her, not delicately or lovingly, but with a passion that would consume them like an inferno. It was already burning him inside, this desperate need to take her, and take her hard. Tonight he wanted to sacrifice them both at the altar of his darkest desires.

Almost as if she could sense his thoughts, her eyes opened to look up at him, a bit confused and still half asleep. “Shunsui?”

“Shh...” he hushed her.

“Is everything okay?” she asked, her voice still husky with sleep. There it is again...that uncanny ability to read him like an open book.

He stared into her eyes, and she easily read his intentions. “I don’t want to talk about it, love,” he told her. “I just...want you.”

She didn’t say anything more. She simply held out her arms to pull him into her embrace. He fell into her, perhaps even crushing her, his body settling right between her spread thighs.

Their kiss was almost fervent with need. At least that’s what it felt like for him. No gentle romancing tonight. No soft seductive kisses or delicate nibbles. His mouth devoured hers, teeth biting into her full bottom lip. The wiry hair on his chest rubbed tantalizingly against her breasts. They both marveled at the contrast -soft curves against hard planes, smooth skin against the roughness. 

One hand wound up in her hair at the back of her head, holding her still as he took what he needed from her. The other hand moved between their bodies to reach down and find that his earlier ministrations as she slept had her wet and ready for him.

“I don’t think I can wait, petal,” he whispered, scraping his teeth across her jaw. His hardness pressed against her soft thigh told her as much anyway.

She reached up and sunk her hands into his hair, undoing the ties. The pull on his scalp was painful but strangely arousing. Her gaze bore into his, and it drove him insane to see the same intense desire reflected back at him. “I’m not asking you to wait, Shunsui. Fuck me. Now.”

With well practiced rhythm, he buried himself in one thrust. Face to face, pressed up close like this, he could see her eyes close shut, and her teeth bite that lip as he stretched her. A bit of pain mixed with pleasure. It amazed him how even after all this time, that first slide into her wet heat could still feel like the first time he was ever inside of her. It had him ready to burst in no time already, and he hadn’t even moved yet.

“Love, I don’t think I can go slow tonight,” he said, apologetic that he might not be able to make it good for her like he was wont to do.

She wrapped her legs around his hips, taking him even deeper if possible. “I didn’t ask you to, did I? Just fuck me already, Shun,” she said, biting his ear playfully. His wife was a sassy little thing that drove him crazy sometimes.

With one hand resting by the side of her head for leverage, he held on to her hip with the other as he began to move. Considering how much bigger he was compared to her, he had to hunch a bit, but this was his absolute favorite position. He felt close to her in every possible way and he got to see just how she looked when she came apart for him. 

As he moved over her, thrusting deep, her moans filled their room, like music to his ears. “Yes...god, yes. Just like that...” His wife loved to let him know just how well he was doing at pleasing her.

His thrusts became faster and harder. He was so close. So close that he was afraid he might cum before her, which he had never done in their entire marriage. But she was right there with him, taking his desires into her lithe little body as if she was made for him. The harder he went, the more she took it, finally until they both burst into pieces...his tension easing away as the intensity of the orgasm eased in.

They were both gasping by the end of it, trying to catch their breath. It has been a long time since they went at each other like this - intense and fast. A definite contrast to their slow, sensual lovemaking.

He realized his hand was still holding tight to her hip. He let go and reached up to cup her face. “Did I hurt you?”

“Mmmm...I don’t think so,” she moaned, stretching a bit, the movement hardening him all over again. Her eyes widened in surprise at his non-existent refraction period. “Again? Really?”

He grinned lecherously down at her. “I can’t help it when I have such a sexy little wife, now can I?” he asked teasingly. Playfulness was always a good distraction, and he wanted her distracted enough that she wouldn’t question him about the reason why he had woken her up in the first place.

By the time they were finally done with round two, the exhaustion of the day caught up with Shunsui, and he was out like a light, cradling his wife. The last thing he thought was how lucky he was that he had someone who truly understood him and what he needed.

She gazed down at his sleeping form with a sad smile. She knew her husband was troubled, and it was clearly evident that he was not willing to talk about it. After all, you weren’t with someone for years and years without learning to read everything they did and didn’t say. And with Shunsui, it was always the things he didn’t say or hid behind a playful seductive remark that revealed more.

She wouldn’t press him. Not until he was ready to tell her, which she knew with experience would happen sooner than later. So she pressed a soft kiss to his stubbly cheek, and settled down next to him. His arms unconsciously wrapped around her, cradling her in his body heat. It was always easier to fall asleep when he was next to her, so that’s just what she did.

__

Written for the

✨ 1500 Followers Celebration ✨

…and requests for this are officially now closed.

__

Thank you to everyone who sent in their requests! I had a blast writing them ALL. This blog is officially at 1600!! 

We shall have another celebration at the 2000 milestone :)

—

Normal Ask Box is open for requests so send in your Bleach fantasies today!

Or check out more of my work through the Masterlist here!

[pandoricpies]

SSO Horrors

A post diving into how dark this franchise’s storyline gets and ideas for a horror game that will never actually be created. SPOILERS for the SL books and SSO storyline.

This idea originally came to me after reading the second book of the SL trilogy, The Legend Awakens. Props to Helena Dahlgren for the Pine Hill Manor scenes in that book; I was completely left on the edge of my seat the entire time. Linda’s whole experience was definitely an unexpected thriller for the children’s genre; cutting her leg on a broken window, exploring an old creepy mansion owned by the centuries-old psychopath that was targeting her, her friends, and their horses, being chased down halls and having to barricade herself in rooms to be protected from the apparent non-human dark riders (not to mention the way Dahlgren describes the animal sounds and scratching that they made, chills), and, to top it all off, nearly dying from sepsis due to her cut becoming infected.... if that’s not horror game material, I don’t know what is.

If you can’t already tell from the title of this post, I am a huge fan of the horror genre. The suspense-packed and often deep moral stories are always a fun watch/read. I personally am currently making my way through some classic Stephen King books that I haven’t read yet which was sort of what inspired this post.

Taking a look at SSO’s storyline on the surface level, we see a classic dark vs. light story, with horses and female heroines as the main points. However, there are quite a few darker elements hidden among the story quests, most of which would only be noticeable to the eye of the older audience of the game. The potential for this plot to be upped to a more mature level as far as darker themes go is definitely there. Regardless, the already existing underlying themes have some heavy themes...

- Teenagers, around the ages of 15-19, have been tasked with saving the world from a demonic entity. They have been granted special powers to do this with. These powers however can be extremely dangerous, as we see with both Alex and Catherine with their Lightning Circle incidents, in which they almost killed living beings. These factors combined would no doubt take some sort of psychological toll on the Soul Riders, as they are so named.

- Brainwashing and cult-mindset was a huge theme brought up with Justin’s kidnapping. He was abruptly cut off from the outside world, had his memories removed, and his mind artificially filled with thoughts of Garnok and world domination. It’s clear when he is rescued and goes back to his home that he’s depressed; his Midsummer dialogue a year back was “My dad thought it would be good for me to get out. I don’t do that much anymore” (not exact but close enough). When he talks to his mother during the memories quests the first thing he jumps to seeing her pregnant with him is “I wonder if she’d would be so excited if she knew all the terrible things I did”. To add to that, upon getting Justin back home, Thomas tells our character “If he keeps having these dark thoughts, I’ll have to turn to the druids.” That in itself was pretty unsettling. All this dialogue was put there to draw attention to the mental affects of literally having your brain tampered with.

- Elizabeth’s story was probably one of the saddest in my opinion. She had to stand by while her friend group fell apart, one going on to die, one going missing, and the other two continuing to split away from her. She then felt it was her responsibility to make up for her sisterhood’s failures, staying with the druids and eventually helping recruit new Soul Riders. Seriously though, imagine that. She saw what pain the magical war brought to her and her friends; knowing that she was pushing four more kids into a situation like that would’ve been devastating (here comes the morals vs. duty idea). Our character must have been a whole other level of that feeling. She saw what Catherine went through with her magic - the fear, the near madness. Then of course she goes on to imprison her close friend’s son (it appeared from the quests that she was closest to Catherine so that just adds to the pain). And to end it all, she sacrifices herself to save a girl who she considered a daughter.... jeez. - Catherine is another issue here for obvious reasons. A teenage girl is entrusted with goddess-level powers, then nearly goes psycho from the inability to control them. You can clearly tell from her last few diary entries how exhausting that was and how happy she was to finally have a somewhat normal life with her husband and son.

- And finally of course we have the DC gang. Mr. Sands is a basket case all on his own, a man who has used mind control (arguably in my opinion one of the creepiest forms of dark magic out there) on numerous victims including his own grandson, a man who legitimately worships a demon, and not to mention has it out for a bunch of teenagers. His whole backstory with Rosalinda made me feel some sort of sympathy for his character (he watched her nearly be drowned to death), and I’m actually quite curious as to where they’re going to take that. Also, The Nightmare Institute? That could be a horror game within itself. All we know so far about that place is that humans and animals are tested on with dangerous materials (ex. Mr. Anwir). Let’s not forget to mention the dark riders who apparently have animal qualities now? (as it was described in the SL books) Ok so we can clearly see that SSO’s storyline gets a bit dark. But just imagine; a Pine Hill Mansion first-person POV game, where you’re in a situation similar to Linda’s, or even one in DC or the Nightmare Institute. Honestly this entire storyline could be turned into some Resident Evil plot lol.

But that being said, as much as it’s fun to speculate these types of things, I enjoy SSO’s storyline just the way it is. It’s enjoyable for me as an older player, but it’s also filled with great moral stories and motivation for young children, especially girls. I love the atmosphere of female empowerment, and it’s especially unique to SSO because around the time of it’s initial release, that wasn’t seen much in video games.

Might start during these ‘chat’ or ‘random things that come to my mind’ posts more often.