#I am kinda posting this in hopes someone talented will see it and try to do better...

[randomstuffnobodywillsee]

i decked out my shark pen

its not perfect but i love it!

Does not effect how i need to hold it. The pectoral fin is just a pen rest, i made a few of those for my pens. But i wanted to play with one

[dawntheduckrb]

I'll stop posting wips eventually but it's been five days since I've said anything and I don't want anyone to think I'm dead/dying/stuck in a ditch and withering away, so here's 10% of the reason I disappeared (the duck is stuck in rendering hell) (and my little baby laptop is screaming at me every time I open up this file)

I might still be mostly lurking for a little bit so please be patient with me in the meantime 🙏🙏

[mochinomnoms]

*slides in* PTM!Silver you say? Please elaborate! I love Silver. He's so handsome! And his arms! The sprites don't do him justice, and i will forever be bitter about it. And they way his face can go from j gentle smile to his intense angry face. I feel like his mind would be mostly sweet daydreams. Hanging out in the woods with his head in your lap. Maybe even dancing in the forest surrounded by his animal friend (like in sleeping beauty when Aurora met Prince Philip) Or! Since he mentions that the Prefect might have some talent with swords. He daydreams about showing them the basics. Hands lingering on theirs while they grip their sword. helping them correct their form as an excuse to hold them close! He has such a serious face. But he fantasized cute little outings.

Any lewed thoughts, I think, would be more like wet(day) dreams. Maybe you were taking a nap with him, and He's was just dozing off thinking how pretty you were. How nice your voice sounds. It's soothing to him. And the way you just sighed and stretched. Now, his mind is else where.

He thinks how beautiful you'd be while he gently rocks into you. Would you stroke his hair like when he naps on your lap? Would you sigh and groan like when you woke up from a nap together? Would you kiss him when youre close to your release and tighten your legs around his waist when he cums in you- he snaps awake. He shouldn't be having such thoughts to his Lord's friend. To His friend. That would be disrespectful. While he was in turmoil beside you, you are desperately trying to face away from him and hope he doesn't see your flustered face. I'm sorry I forgot how obsessed i am with Silver >~<

Refering to this post

I didn't have too much interest in Silver when I started writing PTM, so while he was one of the last options for the fic (mostly because he fit the personality of the manga lead I took inspiration from) I kinda tossed him out right away cause Jade was more appealing and funnier.

I think if I had written it with Silver, your thoughts here would probably match up! He is a lot softer to me so i would imagine his thoughts would be soft when about you as well. I think the drama/conflict in this would be very different though! In Jade's case, it's such a remarkable difference between his personality and thoughts that it sends you into a loop! It's embarrassing (and flattering, though you won't admit it)! So you don't want to address that, and deny it, which only makes Jade want to chase you more!

In Silver's case, since PTM would be the next school year, the conflict comes from Silver not wanting to confess to his Lord's friend, someone the prince holds near and dear. What if he confesses and you reject him and distance yourself from him, will you distance yourself from the others as well, from Malleus? It's a bit irrational, he has to admit, but you are a kind and silly human who won the affections of the Briar Prince, and he is just a knight. What if Malleus were to invite you to his court? If you were to become a noble or diplomate or something similar for Malleus, you couldn't possibly be seen with some knight, can you?

Overall, I think Silver's version of PTM would've been a lot more angsty than Jade's, which does have it's own appeal!

[beddybites]

Do yiu have any tips on like how to attract more attention 😭 it's been a good while and it's a huge struggle of keeping motivation and not so amazing art so it's hard to sure my characters and their stories bc one thing a can say in confidence is I am a good writer I'd like to think, people tell me I have and oddly good but cryptic way of writing that keeps people enthralled, but my biggest struggle is getting them interested in the first place 😭

hi there!! i admittedly dont really know much about the world of writing and how to gain more attention there, but i can try to give tips and see what applies & sticks!

start off short & simple and build it up over time

if you start off with something big and complicated there will be more pressure to keep things big and complicated. theres nothing wrong with short and simple and mixing it up here & there (ie with art: if you only post full pieces with extravagant rendering people will keep expecting it. mix it up a bit. i try posting a variety of sketches and doodles and more detailed things— sometimes some things do better than others and thats ok!

it is 100% okay to repost/reblog your own work

if you ever see me spamming my blog with the same posts, its so i have it back on peoples feeds and on my main profile and its easier for people to find. its also likely that some ppl missed the post, and reblogging/reposting gives them the opportunity to see it!!

something something “its cringe and egotistical” WRONG!!!!!!!!!! its completely normal for creators to repost their content and it may help a lot!!

short & sweet descriptons

when you post, avoid giant paragraphs of text, especially if you’re including art in the post. people will be distracted and will see a giant post and just scroll past it

speaking of descriptions, try using trendy words and notable names

its kinda like hashtagging. if you look at my posts you’ll typically see how i will drop people’s full names + include the word “art” or “doodle” … this is because it will more likely show up on someones feed if said person looks up the same words.

ie: googling “muichiro tokito art” -> insert my post popping up because it has “muichiro tokito art” written out in the description

i admittedly have trouble providing tips as someone who doesnt rlly understand how i got noticed to begin with haha. something something imposter syndrome or whatever they call it these days… so im not really sure if anything above helps, but this is stuff i typically try to keep in mind when i post with the intent of trying to get people to see it

more importantly—

i know this is cheesy and this is easier said than done (i have this habit too a lot of the time) but numbers does not equal ur worth or talent. i know it isnt motivating and it can be so heartbreaking): but even if ur stuff doesnt get a lot of notoriety please know it doesnt define your value . this may sound like gibberish as it is 5 am as im posting this but truly… never give up on ur work!!! i promise u someone out there loves it

im more well known for my deaging & fluff content and to this day im rlly shocked it blew up the way it did. i really made it for myself. i came up with a whole alias and didnt plan on posting it anywhere bc i was so scared ppl would hate it and harass me or nobody would gaf. but eventually i was just like Man. if this thing helps me then maybe it can help someone out there too. and it helped provide ppl some joy & wonder and whimsy & made them feel seen and truly thats all i could ever want…

its difficult and its hard but i promise u… be patient and kind to yourself. it can definitely be hard sharing things around and getting that exposure you need but there are ways for sure. some journeys are faster than others and thats ok!

again sorry if this is all gibberish its super late ): but i hope this could help in some way shape or form

[britney-rosberg06]

about Those tags because i need to talk about your opinions but also am not sure on the tumblr etiquette of just ranting on ops post:

what do you think was the thinking process behind merc building the junior drivers on kimi?

i understand thinking kimi would become a good driver and should be invested in but building it up only for him seems insanity to me. mercedes surely has enough money to have a couple more drivers like ferrari and redbull so why cut paul aron (after what seemed like to me some good top3 championship results) and not even pick someone up so they could have options in case kimi needed more time or turned not to be what they hoped for?

No you’re totally right, it is insanity

Simply put, Toto Wolff kinda has an ego.

If you didn’t know, Kimi was discovered by the Minardi’s before he was even ten, who are also his managers. The Minardi’s got him in contact with Toto Wolff.

Toto has been in contact with Kimi, long before he ever joined the junior team. Kimi’s father would test Mercedes cars (not open wheel real cars) and the Wolffs and Antonelli’s were in pretty clear communication as to Where kimi would eventually go.

So he’s been watching this kid for years now and when he finally signs him (finally old enough to be signed) he keeps winning. Now, he’s got something to prove, that Merc can make drivers into greats, and he has generational talent in his team. Talent that he’s known since he was a child.

Money is no issue with Kimi. He is sponsored solely by Mercedes. While other teams (like Ferrari and Red Bull) have their drivers get their own sponsorships in order to pay for the racing fees with their academy paying a portion, Mercedes juniors - at least now that there’s only 4 of them - are all completely Mercedes funded.

Mercedes pays for everything Kimi wants to do in racing because they believe he’s that great of a driver. Because Toto tells them he’s that great of a driver. And then they see the results on track and are like “well that paid off let’s keep going with throwing money at him”

In Toto’s mind, there is no other option. Paul Aron is a great driver but he isnt the coach of Toto’s son’s karting team. Kimi is. Paul is good and fast behind the wheel but Toto didn’t watch him as a kid karting. He watched Kimi. Paul is frankly, F1 quality, but he didn’t have Giovanni Minardi whispering into Toto’s ear about how great the kid was when he was still in elementary school. Kimi did. That’s not a fault of Paul or Kimi’s it’s just the nature of how things worked out. Paul isn’t an option in Toto’s mind

And because Toto has deluded himself into thinking there’s no other option, and he’s quickly realizing that Seventeen Year Old still doing homework Kimi isn’t exactly ready. But he’s backed himself into a corner and he’s got too big of an ego to back out now.

So, he’s throwing Kimi into rigorous testing sessions and jumping him past F3 and telling the whole world he’s found the next whoever, and somehow somehow convincing the FIA to lower the superlicense age.

Toto Wolff’s massive ego has essentially caused all this imo. He saw a great driver several years ago. Was butthurt about losing Max to redbulll and decided to throw millions at this driver to try and just make the next Max himself. Hurting his other juniors in the process

(clarifying, i totally also think Kimi is a great driver, im a fan of his and I want to see him succeed. If his career is ruined by how Toto is fast tracking him, it’s Toto’s fault)

[simplydannie]

Hello friends!

I kinda wanted this post to be a post of encouragement.

It’s something I face every so often, and it’s something I realize that I’m not alone in. Many of you may feel this same way too:

I love writing! I love being creative! I love engaging with people and just having fun. But there are days where it gets dark for me. I start going through social media and seeing all the amazing talent out there! The stories, the drawings. Pretty soon I start comparing my work to theirs, my following to theirs.

Soon enough, I find myself in a dark pit, wanting to give everything up because my stuff isn’t as popular or have such a mass following…. I turn into my worse critic. There I days I want to call it quits because I begin to think “why am I doing this, no one cares”. I see the popularity and love others receive and dream that one day that be me… but it never is.

It just really, really eats me on the inside… and I have come to a realization that I am not the only who goes through this feeling, and I am hear to tell you that you’re not alone.

It’s okay to feel this way, we’re all only human after all. But what’s not okay is to let that negative feeling win and give up on your passion. Thankfully, I’ve had positive people influence me and council me. And I am here to do the same for you!

Don’t look at the numbers, the following. Here’s my advice: look at the few people who really love your work! The few that support you and are always encouraging you and coming back! Those are the people that keep me going! They hype me up and just get me excited for what’s to come. I greatly appreciate all my pookies (you know who you are) and everyone who just engages with my content.

Look up to these people! The ones who keep cheering you on! If you’re reading his, know that I am cheering on you! It’s better to be surrounded with the few who love and support you. Yes, trust me, there is something flattering about having tons of followers and notifications, but there’s also something poisonous about it if we’re not careful.

Take one step at a time! Eventually you’ll get there! Appreciate what you have right now! Experiment with your style and your content! Find what media platform works best for YOU.

Do not, I repeat, DO NOT loose your sense of self by trying to copy other people. There’s nothing wrong with inspiration, but don’t loose yourself. Take it from me; someone who’s try to be someone else just to be accepted. Your style, your content is what makes you, YOU.

You’re not alone in this feeling, okay? There are days where we can all feel it. I just want to let you know that. I just want to spread what little encouragement I can that has kept me going and hopes that it keeps you going as well.

You’re doing great!

Love,

dannie

[beanghostprincess]

I have this thought for quite some time, coming mostly from my twitter and Reddit interactions.

I kinda love the amount of hate I see towards Buggy. People hate how Oda loves this clown and keeps bringing him up, how he is getting more connections to story, how he gets that high bounty. They hate him because he doesn’t have powers, or isn’t smart.

And the fact that so many of them try to cope by putting Mihawk in place of Buggy is incredible. Mihawk is not some lost friend who is having insanely deep contention to shanks, BUGGY IS.

But I guess he’s not “cool and powerful” enough and they don’t get why shanks could be friends with “someone like that” (actual take I saw a lot).

I can’t wait for buggy to be more important just to see everyone lose their minds. If he gets to laugh tale, the best day of my life. And I’m not even that big on Buggy

These takes make me so angry because they're just??? Not true at all??? Most of these opinions come from the general audience and dudebros who don't take the time to analyze Buggy and just accept his character the way other characters see him. Instead of stopping for a second and thinking about why he does what he does and why Oda likes him so much, they just assume he's the lame clown everyone in the OP world thinks he is. Which is, in my opinion, extremely sad. And you don't even have to analyze shit?? Like, okay, I get it. Chapter 1082 is crucial for his character and perhaps if you don't read that you might think he's useless and Oda uses him too much for what he actually does for the story (bullshit, by the way, I'm just trying to find a reasoning behind their shitty takes). But after reading 1082??????????? Okay???? Whatever. Buggy haters get on my nerves, not because they don't like Buggy, but because they don't understand him.

Saying Buggy isn't smart is uhhh. It's just not true. The fact that he's constantly placed next to the biggest, most feared, and strategic pirates in the world just doesn't help him at all to prove that, tbh. I'd be scared af if I had gone through all the things he has, honestly. Like- People- People just ignore Water 7 and the whole thing with Usopp being a coward but wanting to be more than that because of his dream and that being scared doesn't necessarily mean something bad??? I think people just forget entire arcs and scenes to post these things. Buggy might not be the bravest but he understands the pirate world better than anybody and he's genuinely smart, he's just constantly placed in situations that force his character to be scared af (for obvious reasons) and everyone looks down on him for that. Which makes total sense for his character because his whole thing is feeling inferior and being compared to others when he has many talents himself. He isn't dumb, he just has the worst luck in the whole fucking world. Or the best. It sort of depends.

I think he lost his bravery and sense of adventure when he gave up on his dream, but now that he's being more confident in the fact that he could achieve it, we will see him using his full potential. And I am so, so excited for that. The speech he gives in chapter 1082 changed my life and it's easily my favorite chapter from the whole manga. I really, really hope they do something with that. I want him to have all the wonderful scenes he deserves.

And, okay, about the Mihawk thing: I don't agree with that that much? Like, okay, I can see people often making Mishanks relationship more than what it actually is, but tbf, Mihawk is barely a character here because Oda hasn't given him screentime of his own. He's always there for another character (Shanks, Zoro, Cross guild, etc). What we do know about him is that he went all his way to find Shanks and tell him about Luffy?? Like. Okay, babe, I know what you are. What we do know is that Shanks and him have something going on and I would really like to know WHAT exactly. I'm not even a huge Mishanks shipper but I completely understand why people like it. I prefer other ships like Shuggy and Cross Guild but, well, I don't think they use Mihawk to take over Buggy's place. I think they just want Mihawk to have some story because Oda barely gives him one. But I can see where you're coming from, though. I can see a lot of people using Shuggy's dynamic for them sometimes and it bothers me because these two have their own thing and they could easily just?? Ship both things??

People saying they don't understand why Shanks would be friends with somebody like Buggy is so funny to me, because we barely know anything about Shanks either, lmfao. He's the cool and powerful role model of the main character. He's literally the most cliché thing in the whole wide world, shut up. And I absolutely love him and he has wayyy more personality than these types of characters usually have, but I am tired of seeing takes like this as if Buggy wasn't one of the most interesting characters in this manga. But, also, Shanks would just?? Kick these people's asses for this shit. Saying you don't understand why Shanks would be friends with Buggy is just admitting you think the same way people in-world think about him, which is just admitting you don't understand his character. At least people in-world think that way because they don't know Buggy's story. You know Buggy's story. You should know why Shanks is friends with him and cares so much about him. But also?? Even if Buggy truly was a fucking loser with no talent and no dreams. Saying Shanks needs a reason for being friends with him is so dumb. Have you considered that... Sometimes... Most of the time... People don't have a reason for being friends with somebody and you don't need to find a reason for somebody's love?? Like- Perhaps Shanks just fucking loves Buggy because that's his childhood friend and he doesn't care about his abilities or talents. Perhaps he just loves him for who he is. I don't think it's that hard to understand, honestly.

You're not that big on Buggy, but I am. I really am. He's probably getting a tragic ending with Shanks but I do not care. If he ever gets to Laugh Tale or- Or if he ends up believing in himself finally. If he gets closure with him (which he will get, because Oda loves these two too much to leave them without closure). I will be the happiest person in the whole world. My mind and body say "Luffy king of the pirates!!" but my heart cries of happiness every time I think about Buggy being the king. I love him so fucking much.

[enden-agolor]

I don’t know how often people tell you this, maybe a lot, but can I just say you’re my favorite artist in general? It’s indescribable, but your art just has it’s charm to it that makes it so special and lovely. Every drawing you make is absolutely amazing, and you’re an incredibly talented writer as well! I remember finding your account somewhere around early 2023, and finding your account somehow managed to both get me out of artblock and get me back into mcsm <:) I just wanna simply say I enjoy your work so much and I look forward to every art or fic you’ll create. Sorry if this kinda was a silly ask lol

Also, how do you make your au designs? The designs you make for each individual character in your aus are amazing, especially forest deity and royal, I was kinda wondering if you reference some stuff while making your designs or something <:D I hope you have a great day, Enden!

I don’t know how often people tell you this, maybe a lot, but can I just say you’re my favorite artist in general? It’s indescribable, but your art just has it’s charm to it that makes it so special and lovely. Every drawing you make is absolutely amazing, and you’re an incredibly talented writer as well! I remember finding your account somewhere around early 2023, and finding your account somehow managed to both get me out of artblock and get me back into mcsm <:) I just wanna simply say I enjoy your work so much and I look forward to every art or fic you’ll create. Sorry if this kinda was a silly ask lol

Also, how do you make your au designs? The designs you make for each individual character in your aus are amazing, especially forest deity and royal, I was kinda wondering if you reference some stuff while making your designs or something <:D I hope you have a great day, Enden!

Jeez. Wow, I hardly know what to say. Like literally I've been sitting on this ask for a day thinking of how to respond.

It's pretty dang rare to hear I'm someones favorite artist, so I was shocked to see this when I woke up yesterday. I just want you to know that means the world to me, and it's a huge honor. Thank you so much. As well as the praise towards my writing, it means so much to me to hear positive feedback about it. To know my silly art and writing has had a positive impact on you is incredible. I love that, thank you so much. <:D 🩵

As for how I make my au designs? Gosh I really am not sure. It really is just me pulling up a blank canvas and drawing the characters then adding clothes and armor that I feel fits them. I actually had someone recently ask me on discord how I came up with FD Jesse's design and what the process was, but that one art of them I did with Lukas and Jesse standing side by side (I'll link it at the end) was the first time I drew their designs for this au. Wasn't even sure if I'd stick with the Jesse design but then a bunch of people started making fanart of him and I am SOOOO unbelievably grateful for that but then I knew the design was a success and he grew on me a ton, so I don't see myself changing it. I don't usually use references when doing my character designs, I kind of just work with what I know how to draw already and try to get the image in my head out into the drawing. For the royal au Jesse, I had Link (LoZ) in mind 🥰

I hope your day is great as well!!! : D

And here's the post I was talking about:

[synergysilhouette]

5 things I want for Broadway's take on "Tangled"

NGL, I am slightly surprised that "Tangled" is getting a Broadway adaptation before "Moana" and "Encanto," but I'm hoping it's success opens the door for more Broadway musicals taken from Disney's revival era (and maybe bring back "Frozen"). That said, as someone who is NOT the biggest fan of "Tangled," there are a few things I'd like to see changed in the stage version. I'll try not to make this a repeat of my post on how I'd change the movie itself, but it's similar:

A more hesitant Rapunzel--As-is, she's a pretty complex character, but I feel like a lot of that is only utilized in the tower or in relation to Gothel. She's shown to be fiercely intelligent and have a lot of hobbies that she's mastered into talented skilled (baking, chess, pottery, painting, guitar, star charting, etc.), but it's mainly only shown in her intro song for how she kills time and how she knows about the floating light. She does keep herself busy in Corona, but her time there is relatively short, and her skillset is condensed to a musical sequence as before. I'd enjoy hearing more technological conversation from her or show how she navigates the forest, as I'd imagine she read as much as she could before going out into the world on how to survive and navigate, even if she mainly read books designed for entertainment rather than information. Along with this, I'd probably make her less innocent and bubbly--at least on the surface, presenting her as more aloof and tough because of how Gothel raised her, with her insecurities leading to a lot of trust issues that make her very antisocial and not trust Flynn at all. I felt like the "innocent young girl with a jaded older guy" trope is very played out. Speaking of, I'd probably make her older than 18 and and make Flynn only a couple years older than her at most. And I kinda want her in a new dress since her canon one feels a bit costume-y.

2. Make Flynn someone to take seriously--I've mentioned before that I'm not a fan of they sympathetic thief trope, and that Flynn never comes off as cool or charming as he's supposed to be (we never see his charms work off, actually; according to when Rapunzel meets him, he's having an off day apparently), instead feeling a lot goofier. Similar to how Rapunzel is more reserved and tough, Flynn is more suave and capable, more focused on clever lines than quipping one-liners. Make him feel somewhat threatening and dangerous since he's a thief, and fueling Rapunzel's mistrust. A thing I'd also like to focus on more is his past and how he changes for Rapunzel. I like the idea that he sees the "Mother Knows Best (Reprise)" sequence from afar, and realizes that Rapunzel may only like him because he's not a good person, as people in abusive relationships may hop into another one, and vows to be someone who can protect her and care for her properly as he realizes he loves her, and has previously taken advantage of her in order to try to manipulate her into getting the crown back. I'd also like if he talked about his past periodically rather than just once after Rapunzel heals him; I need a recurring story rather than just a quick backstory that explains why you became pessimistic about the world (unless it's told through an ACTUAL flashback instead of just dialogue, similar to Nick Wilde's backstory in "Zootopia"). Perhaps put it into a song, and I was always weird about Flynn Rider being a fake name, especially since it doesn't affect the story; if you wanna highlight his insecurities, there are other ways to do so besides a fake name.

3. Give Gothel more songs (and perhaps make her a bit less over the top)--Given that Broadway musicals add songs, I doubt I have to worry about Gothel not getting to sing some more, but something I do kinda want is less over the top behavior with Rapunzel. I assume it's done to show the audience that she's clearly the villain and understand that she's manipulating Rapunzel, but I enjoy the more subtle moments. For example, right before the reprise of "Mother Knows Best," Gothel told Rapunzel that she found her by listening to the sound of "complete and utter betrayal." I'm sure some parents actually say stuff like this, but it sounded too obvious. However, afterwards, when she sings, it feels more legitimate, like she's actually angry, sarcastic, and frustrated (ironically during a big number). I'd enjoy more moments where her being a toxic parent are less obvious and are more subtle, personally. And ACTUALLY, someone once asked if "Mother Knows Best" (Reprise) was all in Rapunzel's head, and I do kinda like the idea that Gothel has made Rapunzel so insecure that she just has to wait for Rapunzel to unravel rather than directly intervene.

4. Make the Stabbington Brothers more important--Like I've said before, Flynn doesn't really have an obstacle or antagonist, as the brothers quickly become henchmen to Gothel, who she double-crosses when they fulfill her goal. In other words, despite originally being villains for Flynn, they end up not affecting his story on their own accord, but are pawns of Rapunzel's story. If we expanded on Flynn's past and lean into the fairy tale aspect, I kinda like the idea that they're his stepbrothers. And if we borrow from Flynn's prototype Bastion (who wanted to get out of being a thief rather than enjoying it), Flynn could just be forced to be a thief and manipulated emotionally like Rapunzel into believing he isn't going to survive on his own unless his does as his family asks.

5. Stay in Corona longer--I always hated how little time they spent in Corona, with most of the film taking place in the forest. I'd like for Rapunzel to have more time there to learn and explore her skills and interests (slowly becoming more social), kinda like how Ariel did in Eric's kingdom during her three days. I like the idea that Rapunzel periodically sees Gothel here and there but just tells herself she's going crazy, and Flynn has the same experience with the Stabbington brothers.

[gensokyogarden]

it's almost new years and you guys have been there for me so much during this year so tonight I do want to make a post trying to recognize a lot of people within the community. My head is pretty fuzzy right now so I fear I'm gonna forget some folks, in which case I'm honestly genuinely very sorry, but know that so many of you have touched my life in a positive way. Since I wasn't fully around on Thanksgiving either, consider this my chance of telling you all that I'm thankful for you too.

Some of you may not see this. Either because you don't follow this blog or you've been offline for a while. But I hope even if you don't see this post you still are able to understand my feelings towards you.

At the moment I would prefer if people don't reblog this. I'm not the most comfortable with my out of character thoughts being spread around. However if you know someone in this but think they won't see it on their own you are welcome to link them to this. Also if you're mentioned in this and you REALLY want to save it, I guess I can't stop you from reblogging.

Ruler: It feels like anytime I'm in a rough spot you always have kind words for me. With how often you're in character I just deeply respect you always breaking it for me. You've helped me to feel safe in the community during a very difficult time. That means the world to me.

Annette-mun: I know we only met a year ago but you have become an incredibly close friend to me. Being honest, I rank you as one of my best friends. I have fun with all of the boardgames we play together as well as the connections we've made between a lot of our muses. I always want to recognize all the work you put in sending me those ask spams. I'm sorry that because of head stuff I haven't been able to answer most of the new set. It makes me feel as if I've failed to respect the effort that you have put in. But I hope some day in the future I can fix that. I'm very glad we're friends.

Vel: You're a really funny friend and I care about you a lot. I feel that sometimes I'm not sensitive enough to things that may bother you and worry I may have upset you at times in the past. If I have, I'm really sorry. You write Kyouko really well and your ocs are also quite fun. Thanks for letting me make Nagi. Sometimes you say things that make me feel you are self-concious about your blog and other things. So I just wanna reiterate that I am in your corner and here for you whenever you need.

Slap: I was shy towards you at first, I'll admit. It may not seem it but I'm kinda a shy person in general and I'm nervous to warm up to people, but I'm glad you joined the Touhou community. You're a really funny guy. I love reading your posts on my dash and now I also love playing the occasional game with ya. Your ability to do voice and to commit to bits is astounding. I'm really glad I met you.

Argo: You're someone who is always there for me. I really appreciate that. I left the Fate community for personal reasons years ago now. I'm very glad that, despite that, I still ended up meeting you. Because you've been such a good friend to me. I'm glad that you've gotten somewhat into Touhou because it gives us more room to interact. You've really been there when I've needed you. Often you apologize and say you don't do enough but you've done so much for me. You're special to me.

Hoche: Through all the struggles I've gone through you have been very supportive of me. You have been a level headed voice of support and advice. I think that if it were not for you I would have been worse off in many different circumstances. Aside from that you are a very talented writer. I find myself stunned by some of what I've seen you write. Thank you for everything you've done for me and for being my friend.

Zane: You always show me cool warhammer things and that's special to me. I also really like Nyalter. I love ocs in general, but I think you have done a phenomenal job in giving her a life and story that is uniquely hers. I find it to be quite inspirational and it really pushes me to work harder on my own original characters.

Amber: I have mentioned this before but you were the first person to welcome me into the community. That is always going to be special to me. During that period when you left I teared up a fair amount because it felt like things would always be so different with you gone. I'm very glad that you came back. I really like all your ocs. I'm glad Eri isn't gone but I'm also really happy to be seeing the opportunity for your other ocs to shine as well. They're all fun, but I'm particularly a fan of Anna.

Kay: You've given me some of the advice that has helped me the most when I have been in a bad spot. I can't thank you enough for that. You've stopped me from making really bad decisions. You've also just been a fun and supportive friend. I am very interested in your Reimu and the story arc you've created with the hakurei god.

Swigg: I know we haven't talked much lately. I think our schedules don't line up the best. But you recently mentioned trying to get back into Tumblr. I'll be very happy if you do. Your ocs are fun and you put a lot of love and care into the canon characters you write. I think you add a lot to the community.

Sethy: I didn't know it for a while but back in the Fate community I followed your arknights blog and admired you there. I'm super glad I have gotten the opportunity to meet you and to become your friend. I think that all the things you do are so cool. Like you're a vtuber that's incredible. I always wanted to stream but could never work up the courage. You also know the creators of all the walfas I love. I just think its so cool. You have such a history within the community. I know that you suffered a very bad tragedy this year. I don't believe I was in a good enough headspace at that time to have provided you with the support a friend should have given and I deeply regret that. I just hope you're doing well.

Noka: I think you're a real sweetie and also really funny. I'm glad to see you posting on your sfw blog a lot more again because I really love seeing you on my dash. I'm hoping that we can do a lot more threads in the future because its always fun to write our muses together.

Minnie: Maybe the only person with the same brain worms as me. I know that lately we have not talked much but I hope you are doing well. I just wanna say that I really love your art.

Aurora: My apprentice and buddy, hehe. I know I haven't been around much but I want you to know that I'm glad you decided to join the rpc. You're so full of ideas and kindhearted. You have such phenomenal oc ideas and have such a talent for making danmaku. I think someday you may be the centerpiece of the community.

Sats: We haven't spoken too often but like Amber you were one of the first folks to interact with me in the community. Alongside that I find your writing to be phenomenal. As are your headcanons. The work that you put in to research, especially on folklore, is just so inspirational. It drives me to want to learn everything I can.

Momi: Hey Momi. It's been a while since you've been around and I miss you a lot. I know we still message on discord occasionally so its not like I can't reach out to ya. But I just miss you being in the rpc a lot. You were such a great writer and always doing something fun. But I imagine you've got a whole bunch of difficult challenges ahead of you. I've heard the career you're pursuing is really rough. I hope that you're thriving in it though.

Sarience: You've always been a good pal to me. I have a lot of fun writing with Neka in both forms as well as your other muses. There's a lot of asks from you I haven't answered yet. I'm really sorry about that. It feels disrespectful. Still I hope to be able to do more in the future. Thank you for always being interested in interacting with my muses, even when I was very new and unestablished.

Kyo: I really really like everytime that I see you on my dash. You write your muses in such a fun and engaging way. I hope that we get to interact a lot more in the future. I also know you've started something new in the last few months, not gonna be specific since I'm not sure if you've shared that part of your personal life on Tumblr, but I wish you the best of luck at it. I think you're going to succeed hard!

Ran: Ran I guess I just first wanna say I consider you a really good and special friend. When we've spoken you've often alluded to social anxiety and feeling like you've said embarassing things. So I want to restate that I've never been put off by what you've said and I love talking to you. As well as roleplaying and doing boardgames. I have so much fun pairing our muses up our causing wacky hijinks. I haven't seen you on your blogs much lately. Maybe I've just missed you but if not I hope you return to the rpc soon. It's not the same place without you.

Metal: You've been a long time friend to me by this point. Longer than a lot of folks on this list. I really appreciate that a lot. We haven't talked too much lately but I hope you're doing well. I also know not all of our fandoms sync up but I'm always down to interact anyways.

Nep: Hey Nep I haven't really seen you on Tumblr lately. I'm hoping that's just because we've been active at different times but if not I hope you're back soon. If you're not, I hope you're happy wherever you are. I think that you're real fun to write with and you've got original characters I'm excited to do much more with. I also believe that you had an event while I was gone that I'll hopefully be able to catch up on sometime soon.

Koi: I know I've not been around much lately but I hope that you're doing well. I've not really been in the headspace for horror lately but you're very good at bringing a unique horror flair to things.

Plumber: Hey we don't really personally know each other all that well but you're always making fun and wacky posts that I love to see on my dash. It feels like the rpc would be a lot less fun without you here. You also seem to be an incredibly kind person.

Kaali: A friend I've had for quite a while now but that I don't talk to enough. Sorry about that I'm just genuinely not the best with conversations. I have mad respect for all the work you put into your original characters and into your ideas. Like you really pull out all the stops.

Awoo: I've admired your ability to create interesting and fun original characters a lot. Several decisions I've made to develop my skills as a roleplayer have been inspired by you. I know you've had some mental health struggles of your own and I haven't heard from you lately so I hope you're doing alright wherever you are.

Sades: During some really difficult moments you were there for me when not many other people were. I'm always going to appreciate that. You're also the reason I got into Touhou. Which means that without you, chances are I woule not have met the vast majority of people here or found a community where I feel I belong.

Cobalt: I am always ecstatic when I see your posts on my dash. I love your Chen and think that you're a lot of fun. I have not been around much but when I have been I've seen you talking about things like not feeling you have much to do in the community. I can't make decisions for you but I do want to say that I think you are a fundamental piece of our rpc. I would be sad not having you here.

Teeps: I was shy about approaching you at first but you're incredibly cool. A lot of the fandoms you are in I'm not in but your posts get me interested in them anyways. Like I have no clue who that green sonic character is but you give her such an energy. I'm real glad to know ya. As far as the 2hu rpc goes you've been around a lot longer than me and I love hearing your own personal that you've developed.

Cait: I need to pop in and catch your streams more. I think that you're very cool to see on the dash. I especially love the way that you write your Sakuya. I really cherrish her interactions with my Reimu.

Sev: First of all. A while ago you sent me a very kind message wishing me well in my mental health struggles. I was not in the best place then so I did not appropriately respond. So thank you for that it truly meant a lot to me. I believe that you put a stunning amount of work into the characters you write, giving them so much detail and layers. Its inspiring and I just really want to appreciate you for it.

Hanafuda: You haven't been around much and last we spoke you alluded to a rough spot. So I hope if you ever see this that you're doing well. It was always fun having another Miko on the dash for mine to banter with. I also looked forward to seeing more of the other muses you played. Maybe someday you'll return.

Frozen: Everytime I see one of your posts it makes me smile. Honestly you've got some of the funniest jokes in the fandom. Some I don't get but I still feel they'd be hilarious if I got them. Also I have noticed you often commission art for other people. I find that to be a very sweet and kindhearted thing. So I consider you to be the heart of the community.

Fox: I don't know you very well but I've recently seen your multimuse popping up and it seems very fun. So I want to get to know ya in the future.

Chiru: We've not really spoken but I think you make some really great posts. Very well written headcanons and roleplays. So I just wanna say I'm always happy seeing you on my dash.

Draco: you're not in the touhou fanbase but you have been a long time friend. I haven't heard much from you lately so I hope you're doing well. I'm here if ya need me.

Sturm: I think that all your fairy posts are incredibly. You truly are a star of my dashboard. Hopefully someday we'll interact more. I'd like that.

Xana: You seem to have so much lore for your blogs, its really cool. It seems you've been around a long while so there's a lot of history. Someday I'd like to sit down and hear all about it from you. I also find your writing to be quite fun.

Jacob: we don't interact too much but I'm always excited to see someone posting walfas images. So that has always made you stick out in my dash and brighten it. Hope you're doing well.

Geisthonoredferry: As of yet, I don't believe we've interacted. But you're always liking my posts thst's something I really appreciate. Hopefully sometime I can get to know your oc.

Carp: Last I saw you were in a rough spot so I hope things are well now. You're newer to my dash but you seem very kind hearted and jovial. Also your ocs sre red as hell and go've got good face claim tastes.

Crim: You're a real cool friend with a lot of cool ideas. I love any interactions that our muses have together. Although my favorite is Kutaka/Eiki because it's somehow both a very obvious ship and yet a rare one. I think that they are very cute together. I also like the sisterhood of Reimu and Kisume. It's an unexpected but fun dynamic.

Mugenri-mun: I don't believe I know your screen name but you've been real supportive of me through my hardship and gave me a person to speak to. I would not be in as good a place without you. Also I'm glad someone is repping Len'en.

Kcmeiji & Closedheartedgirl: I wanted to note you both as you are both Komeiji blogs thay popped up and then disappeared while I've been got on hiatus. I just think that's a bit disappointing. The Komeiji are some of my favorites.

That's about all I have to say. It was kind of tough to word it all out but those are things I want y'all to know.

[itsjaywalkers]

Hello Laurie! How are you? How are your holidays going?

I'm the same person who messaged you 2/3 months ago about the fic that I was writing and being scared to post it because it's not my native language. I was wondering how your writing goes, like how do you edit? What do you struggle with the most? I know you said it's not your native language either, and I just wanted to know what slows you down the most? Because for me personally it's grammar, structure of the sentences and its punctionation. I always wonder if my commas are in the right place and if I used right marks, obviously the placement of it differs in every language. And do you have any tips for me? ANYWAYS i'm so sorry this is such a long question bahahhaha, also I've read your new Bartylily fic and I love it. I'm on my knees for them, can't wait to see what you got in store for them. Hihi have a good day! <3

hi darling!! i'm okay, doing some writing!! and my holiday is going great <3 i've been at the beach all week, swimming and reading and eating delicious food. i missed my parents and my sisters like crazy, so it's been very fun to get to spend so much time with them <333

oh, yes!! i remember you!! i hope that fic is going well, and that you'll decide to post it someday. i feel like i already told u this, but i'm sure it's lovely, and if deep down u wanna share it, u should be able to do so, fear be damned (im aware it's not that easy but . u get what i mean)

and my editing process is . very boring and very long . i usually just write the whole chapter out, exactly how i have it planned in my mind, without stopping to check for mistakes, or letting myself get distracted by . a paragraph or a line i don't like, all that can be fixed during the actual editing. once it's done, i try to give it a day?? to let it breathe a lil. and then i reread it all!! i go scene by scene, and sometimes it means just fixing the grammar of some sentences and deleting a random line here and there, and other times it means deleting a whole conversation, or rewriting an entire scene bc it's not working how it's supposed to. editing can take me from a couple of hours to actual days, so it's not a process i really enjoy </3 writing can be a pain, but it's when i get to be messier and have fun and not worry about the end result. editing means polishing and rereading until you grow sick of the story. it's necessary but it's not my fav part of the process, that's for sure

i don't think i'm that bothered by grammar, but it's mostly bc this is just fanfiction and i kinda just . have fun with the language?? sometimes i'm aware i'm not structuring a sentence the Proper way but it looks more beautiful my way, and it sounds nicer, so why would i change it?? not a single one of my uni profs is gonna be reading it anyway. but as someone who isn't an english native speaker either, i totally get u, bc i used to be very insecure about this, and i still am a bit sometimes. i had this fear that ppl were gonna be able to tell english isnt my first language at a first glance. but so what if they do?? theres nothing wrong with that, and bc im bilingual, i speak and write in english in a manner native speakers cant replicate, bc i see and understand their language differently. and i think thats lovely!!!

the thing i struggle the most with is descriptions?? i feel like im not detailed or accurate enough, and like i lack a lot of vocabulary. i do my best to fix it during editing but it never quite works i fear.. i also write ridiculously long sentences, bc i use way too many commas when i should be using periods. and i think that my dialogues are pretty good, but at the same time im always . concerned about characters sounding real enough yk?? since, again, english isn't my first language

and i don't know about tips darling. i keep saying this, but i feel like i'm not the best person to ask about this At All, bc i'm not that knowledgeable, or talented, or skillful. i can tell you to remember that at the end of the day this is fanfiction, and we're supposed to be having fun and being self-indulgent. try not to worry so much about grammar and proper sentence structure or putting commas in the right place. bend the language until it sounds pretty enough for you and a sentence rolls off the tongue the right way. who cares if it's not Correct or Proper. it's not meant to!!! also, don't edit right away, let the story or the chapter breathe for a bit, otherwise you're gonna hate the whole thing and believe it's a Mess. it's usually not!! you just need a break and to put some healthy distance so u can edit more honestly, less unbiased

don't apologise!! my answer was even longer SIGH i hope some of this was at least a little helpful <3 and thank u so much!! more ppl than i thought are reading and enjoying the bartylily fic, and it fills me with joy <3 next ch is coming VERY soon and i can't wait

wishing u the best and sending u all my love MWAH <333

[quinloki]

I think you’re so talented! You have a way with words that is just beyond this world and I can never get enough of it ✨

I also think you’re incredibly kind and fun! Your takes and commentary are always a joy to see! You have curated such an amazing safe space over here, it’s honestly such a treat every time you post!

I wish I had the courage to interact more often because you seem like such anamazing person, and I kinda wish we were friends!

Anyways, you’re freaking awesome 💕

Awww, my mom tells me she wishes she could articulate the way I can. That sounds so arrogant to say XD "my mommy says I'm the best!" -- ah, but what I mean is, I love her, and hearing someone else tell me I have a way with words warms my heart.

Maybe in a different way, my mom's usually referring to how I explain social and biological concepts for her, not like - how hot I write two or more fictional characters being kinky ❤️

I'm glad the space is fun and safe - I try ^_^

People need a place where they can take a break, I can't say I won't be personal or emotional at some point, every now and then, but I do try to keep it exceedingly minimal. You just cannot be always on. You'll shatter that way.

If people can't find a serene forest to take a deep breath, then I hope this little pixel plot I have gives them something similar.

So thank you ^_^

And hey, if you find you've got a desire to chat more, then chat more - I am not the best at keeping in touch, but I also don't experience friendship decay, so every step forward stays there! \o/

Tell me something on anon you wouldn't off it

[foreverisntenough]

Hello,

I’ve been here since you posted the first chapter of ”you’re mine” and I just want to say thank you! You’re such a good writer and I really think your work deserves so much more attention.

You’ve been keeping us fed with a new chapter every 3 days it feels like and everytime I come on tumblr I check to see if you posted a new chapter 🤩

During ”You’re mine” I thought that we would get some crazy plottwist where T would turn out to be a psycho or smthn because of the lovebombing but honestly I prefer the lighthearted path you choose. I get what people mean with ”only smut and fluff” but tbh I dont mind it at all. I absolutely loooove the way you write the smut and like you said it is a big part of their relationship and the kind of couple they are. And sure, angst can put more depth into their relationship and the storyline by seeing how they deal with it and react but sometimes its just nice to read something that makes me feel happy and at ease too.

The new chapter had me in tears when Trent and Y/n had their mini speeches to eachother after Teddy was born 🥲 Your writing really makes me feel the emotions behind the words.

Since this is such a developed fic I think you have the space to challenge yourself and explore your talent when writing and try new/different things outside of your comfort because you are a really good writer and I truly believe you can only go up from here. Even if it doesnt hit (which i doubt) we will be here and support and keep reading!

Since last weeks event with T (💔😒) Ive been massively put off from him but I will keep reading your fic regardless cause of how good it is and T in your story is our T.

Im sorry if its a bit all over the place 😅 I just wrote what was in my mind so it might be a bit jumbled. And also English isnt my first language so if anything is wrong appologies 🫶🏼

Youre a really good writer, I hope you know that and never doubt it!

Love ❤️

Okay, this took me a moment to respond to because it was so sweet. I wanted to make sure my response got everything. Firstly, THANK YOU 🥰 This was so kind.

Thank you for noticing my posting cadence. I really like to write and it comes naturally to me but it still does take some time. I hope people like how much I post! I don’t get a ton of engagement so it means a lot when people do! (TY if you do!)

I totally see where you’re coming from but I’m not a twist type person or at least not in this fic! I put a warning for love bombing on ‘You’re Mine’ because I know it was there but it also I kinda like that and that’s the whole story is Trent just completely enamored with this girl.

I will keep the smut. Maybe tone its frequency back but I genuinely think it is an element of their relationship that helps them connect. I think it’s a place where Y/N feels love and happy with her body.

I agree about angst. I do like it other peoples fics. It’s really good but also I like that these two stories are a majority of happy scenarios.

The latest chapter was emosh for me too. I am really happy for them 🥹

I definitely want to keep pushing my self and developing the stories I create. Thank you for complimenting my writing.

Yeah, real life T, is only human. It’s hard when we put someone on such a pedestal. I personally really like the fic version lol 😂

Your English was amazing btw! I appreciate you writing this so much. I loved all your comments. I hope you keep reading the stories. If you ever think of any ideas or have any more thoughts always message me 🫶

Ily!!!

[amywritesthings]

i have to be a wee bit honest with you all, besties (personal - i'm okay! just some sappy things - content warning: loneliness)

i started writing fic officially last year in february. i didn't think it would become anything at all. my friends made fun of me for trying out reader insert fanfic for the first time, implying (and outright saying) that reader insert was childish, lower quality writing, but as someone who didn't really read much 2nd POV - i was curious. i wanted to try out the medium. it was a challenge. i tried telling my friends (online and irl) about it, but i got a lot of sneers because... well, it was reader insert. and not canon/canon, or original character/canon content.

i'd been toying with a mandalorian fanfic ever since the end of season two. i loved that show. i wanted to tell a story for myself, so i posted a few chapters over the weeks, thinking i'd abandon it and go back to reading fic... then met all of you. i started gathering followers, something i NEVER thought would happen, and from there mutuals. fellow writers were following me! i had never been so excited in my life!

but i'm going to be so honest: i am quite lonely. i've transitioned away from writing groups/dnd/rp to basically be a full-time fanfiction author, and i feel like i've lost all of my friends. most of them don't want to hear about it, so i don't hit them up anymore. i've had friends question why i don't hit them up, and when i explain that my entire life's kinda become "weight training and fanfic" the conversation stops.

add another layer of getting into anime, something NO ONE in my personal life cares about / thinks highly of, and i kind of only have this blog and my vision and writing and -- well, you all.

and you all are so amazing. my mutuals are so fun, and talented, and crazy smart people. i see their fics, and even if it isn't a fixation of mine, i root for them. then the people who have not only read one chapter of my fic, but multiple? or those who have checked out some of my other work? people who legit message me, send me anonymous questions, engage with what i love ---- i no longer feel so lonely. i stop wondering if i should hang up fanfic so i can gain my old social life back where i still talked to my online friends pre-fic blog often. i don't think 'maybe i'm stupid for doing this.'

i'm okay with being lonely and alone, honestly! i'm an only child lol i grew up with a single mom, my entire life was built on my imagination and the ability to be alone. but i just need every single one of you who have touched my work in some form or another -- just how important you are to me, and how grateful i am that you've not only read my works, but engaged, DM'd me about a thirst trap, anything!

it's very easy to forget there is a human behind the stories you like or reblog or comment on, but i hope you know that this human is just really happy that you've validated her greatest love: writing. and that i don't feel so lonely all the time when i'm chatting with you all, or responding to your infectious excitement. i'm just... i feel so content. and happy. and like i actually belong posting my stories, versus keeping them to myself on a word doc that will die within my external hard drive.

you see me. so thank you for seeing me.

[minato-division03]

ARB Birthday Special: Reiaki Suzubayashi

～ June 14th ～

“Rock bottom will teach you lessons that mountain tops never will.”

Login lines

“Happy birthday to the kind soul that’s getting stronger every day. Yup! That’s right, it’s my birthday! Yeah, yeah, it’s technically not my birthday anymore, but oh well! It’s my birthday week! I sure hope I have a good one!”

"I am officially one year older! So Happy Birthday to the great person I am becoming! I’ll do my best to enjoy this next year to the fullest and laugh like never before!”

Voice Lines

“I’ve been traveling overseas to work on an upcoming film— I know, on my birthday, but! The staff and even some of the talents surprised me with cake and presents on set! I had some issues bringing all the presents back to Minato, but I’m here now and I’m ready to just kick back and chill. I already have a video edited and ready to be posted, I have no clients for today… time to take it easy with some of my favorite people on the planet!”

“I even checked my P.O box and I see a flood of presents from fans. It’s so sweet of them! Kinda overwhelming, but I really appreciate the presents! A lot of them are birthday cards, fan art, or really cute plushies! More to add to the collection!”

"Ohhhh? Well if it isn’t the Queen Card! Oh, thanks! Y’know, it’s nice to hear something nice from you once in a blue moon~ Okay, okay, so? Did you need something? Uh… huh? You? Queen Card? Giving me a present? Wait, no, you didn’t have to— Ah… okay… well thank you! What’d you give me?”

“Oh? What’s this? A glass bloody heart necklace? It’s really intricate… really? An anatomical heart? Gruesome… but it’s really pretty! Wha– you made this?! Is that what you’ve been working on this whole time?! Your Majesty! O-okay, you must’ve spent a lot of time on this, thank you!”

"Miku-chan! What’s up? Oh, a present? I didn’t see that coming, thanks! Ah what the hell… do you see me flaunting my money? I’ll let that comment slide, so I wanna see what you made for me.”

"Let’s see~ Hm? There’s skulls, ghosts, there’s faces of… horror movie characters? What even are these? Oh, bath bombs! Geez, you really went all out on these, huh? Thank you! Can’t wait to try ‘em! By the way, the scents that you chose for some of these guys don’t match ‘em at allll~”

Queen Card Lines:

“I hear it is your birthday week. A happiest of birthdays to you, my dear. Oh, come now, that is no way to treat a friend who’s come to pay you a visit. My, I wonder? I had so been looking forward to bestowing a present on this special occasion~ Oh goodness, no, you must take it.”

“A perfect finishing accessory. Do enjoy your new present to the fullest. I crafted it myself, after all. Silence, this is a gift from your Queen. Accept it, that is an order.”

Miku Lines:

"Happy Birthday… Here you go. I didn’t know what kinda gift to give to someone who makes millions… so I made something myself.”

“They’re bath bombs that I made. They’re all labeled, too. This skull one’s scented as achillea— or the yarrow plant, and this ghost one’s thistle-scented, this Freddie Krueger one is vanilla and star anise, the Jason one is pomegranate and guaiacwood, and the Michael Myers one is rose and agarwood. Oh, shut up!”

[ohraicodoll]

Thank you so much for Red. It’s crazy how much I relate to her. We don’t live in a post apocalyptic world but we all live in our own worlds and sometimes it can feel like us vs them which Red helps me to navigate. She has helped me to feel less ashamed about the way my brain has turned out.

She’s so cathartic and has shown me that even when someone is as rough and ready, or completely rejecting of anything good that comes their way because they ‘don’t deserve it’ or that they will wreck it that some people could them her regardless. If that makes sense.

I especially love the new Tommy x Red friend post that just made me feel so fucking validated again! The way that Red has unusual ways of showing her love/gratitude and the people in her life just try to understand it until they do with no questioning!? To be loved in a way that is so accommodating and significant blows my mind. I know you’re writing fiction but sometimes discovering that this very specific thing is addressed and taken care of by another human being in the world is insane and has given me a bit of hope for my future.

It’s so soothing and Cathartic to read your work . I spent some of my childhood in survival mode and it never truly leaves you. You’ve written it so realistically I am in amazement with every piece of the puzzle you post.

I wish I had an ounce of your talent so that I could explain my love and gratitude for you in a way that was comprehensible. I’m sorry, I just had to say something now though, I’ve been having a weird couple of days and your writing is one of my only forms of escapism.

I am so interested in what inspired you to create such a specifically complex female character like her. I consume a lot of media, have read and literally studied the new era of woman (still hard to give them a specific name) and no character has ever come close to Red. Your talent blows my mind.

Thank you Sam.

Oh goodness, did you make me cry ❤❤

I'm so glad you feel seen and feel a bit of representation and catharsis with her. That's just all I can hope is that you all love the characters I create and the stories as much as I do. You've all kept me motivated and inspired to write her (especially as fast as I have haha).

The idea about Red came because I kinda got tired of only finding pure smut or timid characters in the TLOU fic tag. I love both but Tess was not timid and was more the dominant in the relationship. And I fully get that Joel radiates "I'll take care of you" dom energy but at this point in the apocalypse I doubt there would be many people left that didn't have some aggression in them or that need taking care of. I love character analysis too much to do the same type of character.

I've always been drawn to rage characters. I wrote a whole book series when I was a teen centered around one. And I think I wanted to go back to that since my character in my Sandman series is the opposite. Dahlia is an exploration of trauma responses, especially around acts of anger because that's what I experience. But I started writing with action and violence and someone who is angry all the time and motivated by rage and I wanted to go back to it because writing a character that lacks the moral responses to killing is fascinating. So often we get characters that regret or are remorseful around killing and I don't think that's Joel.

So it was a combo of just writing someone who doesn't regret her violence, doesn't regret killing, and has been alone in the wild for a long time focused only on surviving that they never thought they'd get more. Someone who is accepted for their violence and rage. And that's Red. She is a bunch of fractured pieces held together with string with no coping skills and Joel and Ellie love her either way.

There's the her before the Outbreak, the her that was broken by her sister (who she sees in Ellie), there's the her that was with her group, the her after being alone for years and years, and then the her with Joel and Ellie. Joel never shies away from her and may actually be drawn to her more because of it since there's a piece of that in him. This story is about being seen and accepting your ugliness.

I think being able to jump all over her timeline and continuously build her has been so wonderful and fun. Requests and prompts have been great in building her (though I do change some to make sure they fit the world and who she is). I fully acknowledge she's not a reader but an OC but I cannot write a character who is a blank slate because your past and history dictate your personality and actions (and tbh, most Readers are actually OC's without names or descriptions. I'm old, the x Reader/You thing is new but also just a relabeling of OC's)

I don't know how other writers write, but these characters fully inhabit me when I focus on them. It's why it's hard to switch between stories and characters at time because I can only see through their eyes. I feel their natural body movements, their conversations flow in my head and usually I have to race to write them down somewhere for later. Red is very much a part of me and it's been a joy to explore her and bring her to you all.

So much love and thankfulness to you all ❤❤