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thegingeralien · 4 years ago

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Thought I might share my “doing homework with adhd” tips in case the might help even just one person (because that would make me feel happy).

Who am I to be giving you advice? Good point! I am still terrible at studying and I’m 26 and at University for the millionth time. But I have studied A LOT in my 22 years of schooling with varying degrees of success.

I see a lot of people, especially teenagers or first year university/college students, with ADHD asking for tips on how to study. But if you do a google search most of the websites and advice that comes up can be extremely ableist. So I hope I can help someone!

TIPS TO HELP YOU STUDY WHEN YOU HAVE AN ADHD GREMLIN BRAIN!:

1. Chewing gum!

- This might come across as a weird one, but it has actually really helped me. I use it as a form of stimming to help keep me focused and concentrating. Other forms of stimming can potentially end up being more of a distraction when you actually need to be reading or writing - but they can help if you just need to be listening. Try not to get a bubble gum or fun flavoured one though - as they can end up making your mouth feel dry, lose flavour quickly, and just give your brain way too many sensory things to become distracted with.

2. Buying colour coded stationary!

- New stationary can make me really excited to start studying, but that excitement never lasts long and the act of buying stationary can sometimes become it’s own hobby. That’s not what we are going for here. I really recommend, especially if you are a visual learner like me, to buy colour coded stationary. This means removable page markers, different coloured post it notes, highlighters, sometimes even pens. This way if your mind jumps from one topic to the other, it doesn’t matter. Go with the flow. Forcing your ADHD gremlin brain to focus can be extremely counter intuitive. So pick a colour for each topic, and stick to that system to find organisation among your own chaos!

3. Buy a really cheap, boring year diary with hardly any writing inside.

- Not sure if your school/university has their own diary but they can be perfect for what I am on about. Generally you can find them for really cheap, soft cover, no writing or designs within the dates. Just dates, days, weeks and lines where you can write your homework. This helped me a lot in High School. I wish I had kept doing it in University, but I am good with giving advice, and not so much with taking it. I used to decorate the outside of it however I wanted. Some years I would redecorate the same diary every semester. In the public holidays or holiday days I would colour those lines in with different highlighters to make it look like a rainbow. But every assignment due date, homework, draft, rewrite, form I had to bring back, library book due date, school activity days, ANYTHING to do with school I would write in there with reminds and check lists. Important due dates would be highlighted, general homework and daily to do lists t(o help me not leave my assignments to the last minute) would have a tick box beside them (because ticking tick boxes is free dopamine). Try to not put birthdays or fun things in it. This is a small way to stay on track so it helps you actually stay on track with the big things when you’re home.

4. Big whiteboards stuck on the wall where you can’t avoid it.

- This is not something I had in school, but I so wish I did. I have been using this recently to keep on top of house work (as maintaining your own house is tiring) and my small business or other things I really can’t avoid. If I physically write it down (not just in my phone) it psychologically does help you commit it to memory. Again, physically putting a line through a task you just completed is a hecking great rush of dopamine. But the biggest reason I love my white board, I can’t ignore it. It is stuck to the wall and is never out of sight, out of mind. I can’t put my phone or diary down and then refuse to look at it until I’m past the due date. Again, I’m not a perfect person, there are days where I don’t do anything I have written on the white board. But the great thing is, I don’t have to continuously feel like I failure, as I can wipe it all off the next morning or week and start fresh. I also put important things I have to remember that I’m doing during the week so I don’t forget them.

5. Icky Medication.

- I know not everyone wants to be on medication, and I understand. I am not forcing you to. No matter what your opinions are, you lovely gremlin who is still reading this post, regarding medication, you are valid and I respect you. My personal experience with medication has not been the best. I have been misdiagnosed for a severe chunk of my academic life which has seen me trying to focus and maintain school work under some even worse states then I am unmedicated! However, since receiving my diagnosis and finding the right ADHD medication for me, I have the ability to get so much work done without having to unnecessarily struggle. It’s unfortunately not magic, it will not turn me into a robot that makes me do work and turn out incredible, noble peace prize winning assignments (as much as I wish that were possible). I still have the ability to be a lump, doom scrolling through tumblr, forgetting to eat, and ignoring responsibilities. But it really helps me when I sit down and start that thing that isn’t fun. Yesterday it helped me hyperfocus on cleaning my office which was a terrifying room to be in. So it’s pretty close to magic in my opinion!

6. Accessing Disability Support at your place of learning.

- Not all of you taking the time to read this will have either a) an offical diagnosis or b) a good disability support available to you wherever you are completing your studies. And that is okay. This dot point just won’t be for you right now. But keep it in mind for a time when it might apply to you, as it’s something I never thought I would need, but will never take for granted ever again.

- If you have an offical diagnosis and Disability Support, make an appointment with the disability support adviser. DO IT NOW! Get your psychiatrist to write a diagnosis letter outlining that you have <enter superpower that makes you hilarious here> and that you are receiving <enter x,y,z treatment here> and that you would benefit from receiving <enter what you have always wished you had on the days you can’t make your ADHD gremlin brain do the thing here>. Now these benefits can be, but not limit to: automatic extensions on ALL assignments, extra time on exams, extra breaks to walk around while taking exams, special consideration when marking assignments, my university allows me to take exams in a separate room with only the other students in my subject who also have disability support (occasionally I have taken an exam alone with only a tutor present) so I don’t get distracted, permission to take fidget items into class or exam (I have the option to wear headphones, as long as I can display that they are not connected to anything). Maybe you can come up with some great ones for you with your disability advisor or your psychiatrist.

- The disability advisor will often go through your course outline with you at the start of each semester or year. This is annoying and a great time for disassociating, but can be useful in hindsight because you are made aware of everything that will come up during your class so you are not surprised. Because lets be honest, it is unlikely you are going to look at the course calendar too often.

- Side Note: I make an appointment every semester with my disability support officer for my area of study to make sure I have my special considerations for the year. Now I may go through the whole year without ever using my considerations. However, the fact that I know they are there takes an insane amount of pressure off of myself. If I’m having an insanely screwy loony tune mental health moment, I can email my coordinator my disability plan and say I need an extension due to personal reasons, and WHOOP, there it izzzzz.

7. Dedicated one thing or a few things that have nothing to do with food/alcohol/other substances to reward yourself with for doing the thing!

- This may not work for everyone. It doesn’t always work for me. I used to reward myself with food, but that only reinforced my stimming with overeating and my already bad relationship with food. And I feel as though that would be the same with any other substance that can be linked with addiction. (Addiction is a tough word, cause what aren’t I addicted to, I have ADHD, but hopefully you get what I mean!).

-Now, boring try and not choose this aside, lets think of somethings that work really well as rewards!

- My partner likes to come give me a kiss and a hug when ever they have written and reread a paragraph, you might buy a book when you get a really good mark, you might want to go make a cup of tea and watch an episode of your hyperfixation after studying for <enter a good period of time here>, you might allow yourself to partake in an activity you usually do while procrastinating (but at least this time you know you aren’t putting something off), talk to someone who you know will tell you they are proud of you as they understand the mental struggle you go through to concentrate (if you can’t think of anyone, it is 110% okay if that person are the amazing people on tumblr or the adhd tumblr chats. We will freaking pop a bottle of champagne for you cause we get it!).

- Try and make what ever you choose be something in a different room or away from your working space. Getting out can really calm you down.

8. Don’t be afraid to ask for assistance.

- This is true for anything, but I don’t mean just asking your teacher to give you extra help understanding the task and marking rubric. Many people online, tutors, librarians at your school, past or present students offer assistance rereading and making small edits (they won’t make it magical unfortunately) to your assignments. If you are like me and once you have written or completed the dreaded thing, you can not imagine or force your gremlin brain reread or edit the thing. So it can help to just delegate this to someone else, who hasn’t read it before, so they won’t disassociate or skim read it. They will often notice things you never would have even if you were neurotypical as that is just what happens when you have been working on something for so long.

9. Repetitive music.

- It generally helps if this has no lyrics. Lo-fi is amazing. Classical is alright too if it works for you, but both my partner and I agree that it can really assist you to keep up pace and focus when the beat is a high and repetitive (almost meditative) tempo.

10. Limit your screen space.

- This is a tip completely from my partner @dr-adhd who also has ADHD, is an avid PC gamer and is consistently in a battle with their gremlin brain to focus on completing their PhD. They have discovered that it really helps them to limit their screen space - simply put, work on one screen only. They have done more work more easily when they have their one screen on their laptop to focus on. Whereas their office has multiple screens so they could be playing runescape, watching YouTube, listening to lo-fi and doing work - which never worked (shocking right hahaha).

11. At the risk of sounding like a Mum... Put your phone and other electronics other than the assignment necessary one, away.

- I am a Mum, but to a fluffy puppy dog, so I hate to sound like my Mum when I was in high school, but she was right. Mobiles are the single easiest and biggest distraction in ADHD history. I often, even at coffee shops, have to turn my phone over so that I am not consistently looking at it every time the screen lights up to say the pizza place has sent me a coupon, or a carpet place that has been having a sale since I was born is... still having a sale, or a friend from school wants you to watch this TikTok. Even though you might not want to ignore your friends, because people pleasing, difficulting making/keeping friends and RSD are hecking real things, but they can all wait. Trust me, none of them are urgent. That TikTok will still be funny in an hour or two. And I’m probably completely right when I say that whomever just messaged you, never replies as quickly as you want them too. So I doubt they are going to think twice if you are MIA to finish your thing.

My partner or I might add to this later, but at the moment I already know that I probably wouldn’t read this wall of words if I was the one reading it, so if you are still with me, THANK YOU and I really hope I might have helped you. Sorry for the mound of words, but maybe you can reblog, screen shot, or save this and read a dot point at a time or refer to it when you need. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, I promise what ever it is, I’ve asked the same thing once in my life or something MUCH stupider.

#ADHD #Study tips #actually adhd #autistic #adhd #neurodivergent #adhd study tips #advice #adhdstudytips #studying with adhd #adhd advice #ask adhd #adhd mood #adhd life #adhd vibe #disability support #uni support #school advice

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emily-the-fae · 3 years ago

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Sound of a Heartbeat

Part 5. Walking makes the road

Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3 - Part 4 - Part 6

Unbelievable, but I'm finally back with a new chapter. I've been going through a lot of stuff with my studies and personal life for the past month and here it comes. Finally done with the editing. Most definitely not the best chapter in the story, but it has to be here to keep the storyline together and moving. Anyways, enjoy. Like and comment if you do, I'm very happy to receive feedback.

PS Dracula back to the story soon:)

I still have no beta and English isn't my mothertongue.

Pairing: Dracula X OC

Warnings: probably none, skeletons on sticks...the usual stuff

Wandering into the lands ruled over by darkness itself has never been pleasant.

The next morning was freezing cold, just as the passing night - no warmth was brought by the little sunlight that came - and upon waking up Shari briefly wondered how she wasn't dead of the cold yet. Her mornings were something like crawling out of a tomb every time - the kind she imagined when she heard the stories of vampires awakening, though no doubt they must have still felt better than she did. Those bastards.

Morning light was dim and weak, there were torn scraps of greyish mist laying low above the ground and the forest was eerily quiet. Shari knew the sun had to be very low, but nevertheless up, which meant that she had to be on the move already, and yet she couldn’t force herself to move a single inch, as if the forces of the castle were sensing her approach and weakening her on purpose.

She hadn't entered any towns - in fact, hadn't seen any in the previous eight hours or so of her walking the day before - and though her food supplies weren't awfully low, her health seemed to be protesting and weakening at hourly rate, demanding normal human conditions and rest. She needed warmth and a bed, and she was sure as hell that where she was heading she would either get those only already in Dracula's den, or won't get it at all.

- So? Are you up? Heading? The faster you rise, the faster we'll be there, - Shari sat back against the tree trunk, taking a gulp of cold water from her flask - she wouldn't mind Trevor's whiskey right now, but the hunter took it all with him; Rodo was seemingly relieved that he was free of his duty of being her personal heater, he jumped up and ran around the forest opening, stretching his stiff muscles. At least someone had energy left.

- You know I'm really beginning to hate you now... - she yawned.

- I believe you have already mentioned that.

- Not enough, apparently.

- Oh, come on, you like my company. Besides I'm the only one helping you so hey...

- Ok, ok can I get my food at least?

- You can eat on the go! Come on! - she whistled for Rodo even though she knew he couldn't hear her. Shari stood up purposefully slowly and made the first hesitant steps to follow her guide. Oh where were those wonderful times when she could stay in bed almost all day if she was feeling under the weather? She could kill for such a possibility at the given moment. There was a screech of another winged demon somewhere in the distance, Shari shuddered, brought out of her thoughts and Rodo turned his head briefly, seemingly considering whether he should bolt to search for the other creature, but quickly averted his muzzle from the direction and followed Shari, jumping from tree to ground and back up.

It was going to be a long day.

- Did you walk the same way? First time you found his castle? - the scenery about them was dreadful to say the very least. The forest was greyer now, less green, less alive than on the route before. The few small villages they passed were seemingly abandoned completely for decades if not centuries and Shari felt rather than acknowledged that the farther she went, the worse it would become.

- Not quite, - Lisa replied, her voice all too lively for a ghost. - The direction I came from was a bit more disturbing than here, - Shari briefly wondered how that should have looked, if this desolation seemed lively in comparison. - And I also went alone you know, so...

- Oh, yes, thank you, my wise guide for leading my way... Probably to the dinner table of a very aggressive vampire, - Shari bowed mockingly, then coughed again, swallowing the blood the pooled to her mouth.

- Calm down. There won't be anyone there, I'm quite sure.

- A-ha! So now you are "quite" sure!?

- Don't be mean, I'm trying to save your life here.

- Exactly me for some reason, - Shari snorted sarcastically.

- For the same reasons you helped Adrian. Because I can't just walk past... and because I feel rather than know that helping you is more than just helping one particular person. Just like you felt about him - didn't you?

That shut the girl up for considerable time.

They walked all day long only making one small stop to rest during - at least what was supposed to be - midday (it was very hard to understand where the sun was behind the treetops, clouds and fog). Shari coughed up blood and swore like a sailor, but Lisa only let her sit down long enough to gulp down some food. If she wasn’t killed by some night creature, she would sure as hell be tired to death with such a guide pushing her to the limit. It was visible how the closeness of their destination made the ghost more and more agitated.

The dawn was already close and Shari was ready to give up the hopes of getting to her goal on that day - ever, to be honest, judging by the condition of her lungs – her body desperately wanted her to drop down and call it a night. The forest around them was dreary and dense, the mist had never lessened since morning; Shari was cold, slightly wet and unbearably tired and even Rodo seemed to lose some of his enthusiasm, even though the darkness should have empowered him. Maybe being around humans rubbed off on the creature a little.

- Shush, - Lisa turned to Shari as they walked on, gesturing for her to cut her whining and keep quiet. Shari stopped abruptly looking around in alert, trying to see through at least some reasonable distance between the tree trunks. Finally she understood what picked her companion’s attention: clearing began to be noticeable before them - it seemed that the woods were all of a sudden coming to their edge.

They carried on walking in silence for a few more minutes until they finally reached the end of the trees – the edge of the forest. The final border between the darkness of Dracula’s lands and the normal world. Shari gasped in surprise and horror: in front of her was a few feet sandy drop covered here and there in greyish grass that led to a whole field, dry and dead in dim yellow lights with no snow upon it, weak bushes appearing here and there. It seemed that the mere presence of the undead somewhere nearby sucked the life out of the lands. Peculiar graveyard formation occupied a part of the land - human skeletons hanging on tall sticks, all in varying poses, as if frozen in their deadly agony, dried with ages and falling apart. Whatever happened there, it was nothing good. If this was what the owner of the lands decided to expose to lone travelers, it was quite obvious there would be no “welcome” shield ahead.

There was no visible end to the field, at least the reddish mist coloured by the light of the setting sun made it impossible to see far in the distance. Shari coughed, dusty air tickling her throat, and looked back to the ghost in confusion. Was this what they had searched for?

- Are you sure this is…?

- My reaction precisely when I first saw this place, - Lisa was amused, watching the healer's fearful face. - Come on, we're almost there now.

- Wait! What, there? To those? - she gestured actively to the mass of aged corpses, but Lisa payed no attention to her reaction. - Lord, why do I always get myself into the deepest trouble I can find? Could've stayed somewhere safe and warm, healed a bit, but no-o I had to be right here, torn apart by bats and hell-knows-what-else-inhabits-this-place, - Shari mumbled to herself as they descended into the valley, her feet slipping upon rocks and sliding on the unsolid sandy ground.

- Oh, come on, it's not as scary here. You’ve surely seen worse - Lisa replied, - they were walking deeper into the field, navigating their way between the mutilated skeletons, as the reddish-grey twilight around them was darkening minute by minute.

- Maybe. Doesn’t mean I want to see more.

Just as the words left her mouth, there was a blood-chilling howl somewhere in the distance and a horde of great black bats, apparently awoken by the sound, appeared out of nowhere, flapping their wings above their heads rapidly; Shari yelled and dipped down in fear. Rodo on the contrary jumped up from behind her back, trying to reach the annoying loud things and succeeding in catching one of the creatures between his sharp fangs. Shari only crouched down lower, as she heard the struggles of the defeated being next to her ear. Then a snap - the animal stopped moving, as Rodo tightened his jaws, probably breaking the thing's stamina. Just as abrupt as it began, the flapping of the bats above her stopped too.

- Lisa? Are-are they gone? - her voice was slightly shaking, she awaited the dreadful howl to repeat even closer.

- Shari, stand up! Shari! - she heard Lisa's voice coming from behind her back and turned around, her eyes searching for the ghost, as she realized that Lisa has moved much further away than she expected. Shari was on her feet in an instant, finally noticing what stood behind the ghost's transparent form, her mouth fell agape at what she could see before her now.

A wide set of steps that led to doors so tall that she felt her head spin even looking up at it - the dark stone walls went up and disappeared in the low greyish mist. Her ghost companion was at the top of the steps already and Rodo was gladly running up to the doors, apparently recognizing the smell of his own home of some time ago. Shari followed behind him hesitantly, looking around for any sign of movement.

- Come on, don't be shy, - Lisa cooed, as if luring in a small child. Her greyish form paused on one spot, waiting for Shari by the door. The girl looked around one more time as she joined the ghost on the final steps,

- Are you... Sure? This doesn't look completely abandoned. I mean, can you be sure he isn't home? That he won't be back soon? Clearly you can’t, why am I even asking… This was a terrible idea straight from the beginning, - she was visibly shacking, clenching and unclenching her fists, stepping from one foot to the other. The whole journey suddenly felt like a big mistake that could still be possibly abandoned if she did not take the final leap. Shari put her hand on the door handle then pulled away in fear. She took a deep breath, putting her palm back more steadily on the door, but was still hesitant to push it open. She paused. There was once again the dreadful howl from before, now closer to them, the creature producing it still not visible. They were standing in almost complete darkness.

- Go! - Lisa pressed.

Rodo leaped on spot beside them.

Shari held her breath – and finally pushed the handle and jumped inside, scared to even look in forward and terrified of what was awaiting behind, diving head-first into unknown - if he is there, let it be, she'd rather be torn apart by him than by whatever thing outside that let out those blood-freezing sounds; Rodo slid in too, in a ghastly manner, his massive form unnaturally smoothly squeezing through the small gap in the doorway and the next moment the door was shut behind her with a loud blow. She was finally inside Dracula's castle.

#please don't judge me #i'm trying #castlevania #dracula x oc #dracula x reader #vlad dracula #vlad dracula țepeș #lisa fahrenheit #sypha belnades #trevor belmont #adrian tepes #alucard #my writing #castlevania fanfiction

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george5259999 · 3 years ago

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Week 8 - Digital Iteration

This week's tutorial was really interesting and entertaining. One of my personal hobbies is digital rendering (mainly in Blender), but it was really nice to go out of my comfort zone to a program I have only ever used once before. When I opened 3ds Max for the first time, I noticed how similar the interface looked to Maya. Being Autodesk programs natively, it made sense, but it was nice to have some element of familiarity.

During my year 10 and 11 high school holidays I completed a Cert IV in digital design for games and film. That coursed used Maya and Unreal Engine 4, so I had a bit of experience with the interface and principles of polygon modelling. However, 3ds max was probably one of the popular programs which I had the least experience with; so it was still a hugely informative and insightful process trying to adapt my knowledge between programs.

I started with the primitives menu, and imported a sphere into the workspace. I initially found myself struggling with the interface. There are a lot of options and features which are not necessary when learning the basics of a program. When starting to learn any 3d program, I often find myself spoiled for choice, and perhaps even too overwhelmed. I was very glad when the tutorial suggested hiding some superfluous menus from view, as I felt that it really cleared up the screen. After aligning the views (Image 1), I experimented with the modifiers tab.

The modifiers in 3ds max were really interesting to play around with. Working with meshes can sometimes be a tedious and particular process, but it was really enjoyable creating something with no end goal in mind. I liked how using a squeeze modifier (Image 2) could generate an egg shape with the sphere primitive, and how the melt, twist and wave modifiers (Images 3, 4 and 5) could be pushed to the mesh extremes. When working with a mesh, the topology is important to the quality of the final form. As the entire object is constructed of tris and quads, the way they are situated on the model, and their resolution play an important role in what you see. For example, the more I increased the twist modifier, the more I could see the vertices sticking out of the shape. It goes to show that unless the resolution is increased, there are limitations to the modifiers usage, as they can 'break' your model.

The modifiers in 3ds Max are very different to the ones in blender, I definitely feel like in any 3D program, anything you can create in one is attainable in the other; however 3ds max has a lot of mesh deformation modifiers out of the box. Although I thought these created really interesting and abstract shapes which I certainly enjoyed, I realised that I couldn't think of many instances where I would use some of the modifiers on a real project, but I think they are really valuable for niche tasks.

My favourite part about the exercise was learning poly modelling in 3ds Max. Poly modelling is a core part of most 3d modelling programs; and the skills are usually transferrable between. There are some really fantastic modelling tools in 3ds max which make the process of modelling enjoyable. I had a look around my desk for some quick and interesting forms I could make, and started with a really simple apple using the sphere I had in the viewport. I utilised the 'soft select' (Image 6) feature to move many verts at once, to create the top and bottom crease in the apple where the stem travels. To create the stem, I used the cylinder primitive and used the taper/bend modifier to create a curved and natural form (Image 7).

Next, I used the cylinder primitive and used the scale and extrusion feature to get the barrel of a pen. To create the tip of the pen I target welded the vertices together to get the point. I created a new cube primitive to create the clip on the pen, and extruded it (Image 8); also creating a bevelled edge to round it out slightly. Using the same techniques, I also made a stool from my room (Image 9). I really wanted to experiment with as many features as I could in these exercises, so with each 'sketch' I tried to focus on a tool I hadn't used before - as it felt like the best way to improve (Image 10). Still getting comfortable with the Poly Modelling in 3ds max, I also made a cupcake (Image 11) from the basic cylinder primitive to try and improve my modelling quality and speed; making simple extrusions, scaling the rings in, rotating them to get the icing layers. I played around with NURMS subdivision on the mesh to smooth it out, and was really happy with the results.

Finally, I wanted to use all the skills in conjunction, as well as using a tool which really sped up the workflow. I knew from Blender and Maya that loop cuts sped up the process, but I could not find them in 3ds max. After researching the issue on different forums, I found that it went under a different name; Swift loop Though it was very basic problem solving, it goes to show that these skills and programs have transferrable knowledge; and doing a simple search of your problem can lead to new ways of solving them. Swift loop was really useful in creating a loop cut between two parallel edges; adding more geometry for manipulation. When creating the tape dispenser, I noticed that the subdivision was rounding the model out too much, to the point where it no longer registered as a tape dispenser. So I used the swift loop feature to create loop cuts close to the bordering edges to reduce the interpolation between the curve (Images 12 and 13). This taught me that the subdivision modifiers aren't just something that can be added to a model to instantly make it look better; they require some manipulation and editing to get the desired effect.

I found 3ds max challenging but really interesting and insightful. As I am familiar with other programs of similar nature, it took me a while to get out of my own head; using shortcuts and hotkeys from the other programs and wondering why it wouldn't work. Overall, I think that its really rewarding to pick up another program, as it expands my skills and approach to modelling. If I were to redo this activity, I think I would try and make some more complex forms now that I have gotten more comfortable with 3ds Max; perhaps moving onto a product or more complex object. I am really looking forward to creating the bottle concepts in 3ds max next week, as I believe it will be another chance to improve my skills.

Thoughts on the Pre-Class activity - Andrew Simpson case Study

I believe that digital modelling and physical models have a closer relationship than people think. Form and Materials are an important part of perception, but there are qualities of both physical and digital modelling provide when compared to one another. Digital models allow for material iteration, simulation and rendering. Physical models allow for the physical contact, and interaction with the end user. When Andrew discusses the importance of materiality, it drives home the necessity of experimentation and versatility in design. The idea of new materials informed new processes in his decision making process, and it lead to different material types being explored.

I found Andrew's discussion on model fidelity really insightful. I perceive high and low fidelity models to represent how close the model is to a refined product. Whilst a high fidelity model would be fantastic to show clients or to use in renders, low fidelity models are required to quickly iterate on concepts and ideas to test the boundaries of the product e.g. material, form, colour. High fidelity models are more refined, and have more time put into them, to explore how the end product will feel for the user. High fidelity and low fidelity models are both important, and when Andrew talks about the non-uniform relationship of the two in his process, it shows that design is not a linear process; rather a circular one driven by prototyping and feedback. If a high fidelity model still doesn't feel right, faster, low fidelity models can be made testing a range of new ideas; to be taken through the process of design once again.

#ides1262 2021 week 8

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hains-mae · 4 years ago

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Flowers - Pt. 2

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5 (end)

(Damian x Reader) Soulmate AU

Rating: T

Ages: Damian and you are 16, everyone’s ages follow after.

Summary: Soulmate AU where the wounds on your soulmate turns into a flower tattoo on your skin, if it heals with no scars the tattoo goes away, if it heals with a scar then the tattoo stays. You know who your soulmate is. It’s Robin. The vigilante. The crime-fighter and protector of Gotham who runs along side the Dark Knight himself – Batman. And you’re still you. This couldn’t possibly work, could it?

Notes: I did not expect my last fic to gain as much popularity as it had, and I am so thankful. @grincheveryday said there had to be a part 2, and although I wasn’t planning on it – I relented. And now here we are, with part 2.

Anyway, thank you again so much for the lovely comments. I hope you guys enjoy it.

Disclaimer: I do not own DC. If I did, I wouldn’t make it as confusing as it is now.

Metropolis. The convention was to be held in Metropolis. The city of Superman! I was more than excited when the school informed us, and it turned out that Lex Corp. was sponsoring our transport and accommodations.

Gotham Academy instructed us to pack a week’s worth. The actual event was going to run for a total of one week. 3 days to try and impress during the showcase. After that they scheduled a meeting for students and companies who were interested in internships and mentoring, which would last another 2 days. On the last day Wayne Ent. promised a gala to finish off with a bang.

“Oh, my baby is growing up.” Mom said as she helped me pack.

“It’ll only be a week, mom. You’re not getting rid of me that easy.” I laughed.

It was a decent trip going to the big city of Metropolis. What I noticed first were the clean streets and bright colours. The sun was actually out of the clouds (something that only happened a handful of times during the year back at Gotham). There was a lot of excited chatter on the bus as soon as we entered.

“Alright children, you know the rules. Keep close and stay in sight.” Our science professor spoke up over the murmurs.

“Ah, Gotham Academy I’m presuming!” A boisterous voice caught our attention and successfully made us all quiet.

It was Mr. Lex Luthor.

“Mr. Luthor, it’s an honour. May I just say on behalf of our school we’d like to thank you for the generous hospitality.”

“The honour is mine.” He replied to our guide and professor as he shook her hand. “With such young and brilliant minds, how can I refuse?”

It felt surreal to be there. To be meeting with one of the most famous inventors and businessmen on the planet. I thought about pinching myself but if this was a dream, I didn’t want it to end.

We were ushered into the building that we were going to be staying at for the next week. It looked amazing on the inside just as it did on the outside. The receptionist smiled warmly at us when we entered. As the adults talked about where to place us, my schoolmates and I were left in a waiting area with large, soft sofas. I sighed in delight thinking this day couldn’t get any better.

The briefing was short, and we were sent to our rooms to freshen up before dinner. If I thought the lounge was awesome, the bedrooms were 5 times more. The walls were cream in colour, and the furniture’s light tan tint complimented the aesthetic. Two queen sized beds since were to stay in pairs. Bright yellow flowers on beautifully painted vases stood on each of our bedside tables.

I took the bed closest to the window, and placed my bags on the floor. My roommate didn’t mind as she unzipped her suitcase and began to make herself at home. As we shuffled around placing our belongings in their respective areas, I couldn’t help but wonder if Robin would be here. It was a million to one chance since many schools from Gotham were involved, but still, I hoped.

You don’t even who he is, or even how he looks like under that mask — my inner muse said pointedly. I sighed, knowing it was right.

That evening I opted to go to the dining hall a little earlier than expected. I didn’t have any friends around, since it was limited to one student per section. So I found myself alone sitting on a table with my name printed all fancy on a card. I sighed, pulling out my phone and going over the slides of my presentation for the invention.

“Good evening.” A presence alerted me and I fumbled as my phone slipped from my hands.

They caught it in one swoop.

I looked up and found myself face to face with a pair of clear forest green eyes.

“Apologies, I didn’t mean to startle you. My name is Damian Wayne.” His tone was clipped as he handed me my phone, like he wanted to be anywhere else but here.

I swallowed thickly, I’m sure I looked flustered, he seemed like he was in a bad mood. Quickly clearing my throat I took my phone from him and introduced myself as quickly as I could.

“Pleasure to make your acquaintance.” He said stiffly and sat down beside me.

There must’ve been a mistake on the placement of the name cards. Usually they would assign our seats in accordance to our sections. Mine should be at the last... and oh my god his name is next to mine?! How did I not notice this???

“The - the pleasure is mine.” I said nervously and tucked my phone back in my pocket.

I may not be part of any of his (or his brothers’) fan club, but I wasn’t living under a rock. Damian Wayne. Son of Bruce Wayne; the one who organised this entire endeavour. The son of a multi-billionaire business man. The prince of Gotham! What in the world was he doing here — next to me?!

There was a painfully thick awkward silence between us, or maybe it's just me — I bit my lip and looked everywhere else in the room but the boy who was sitting beside me.

Taking deep breaths to calm myself down, I noticed a pleasant aroma in the air. I must’ve missed it after our surprising introductions, but his perfume smelled good. It wasn’t a scent I would normally smell nowadays, but I immediately recognised it.

“Arabian oud.” I said out loud. Unintentionally mind you, to which I mentally facepalmed.

I quickly covered my mouth and apologised. Great, now he’ll think you’re a creep, way to go.

“Yeah.” Damian cocked a brow at me and narrowed his eyes. “It is, not many people know.”

“My dad. He liked those kinds of scents. Came a cross it one time during a case he was working on. I guess it grew on me too.”

Talking about my dad to a complete stranger, it was nerve wrecking but at the same time the memory calmed me, and the scent dancing between us only lulled me further into memory lane.

“It sticks better than regular perfume.” He said nonchalantly.

I had to giggle at that. “Well you get what you pay for.” He scoffed, and I reminded myself that this guy was probably rolling in money every day.

There was silence again, but this time a little less awkward. I still hoped everyone would be here soon though.

My wish was granted. Not five minutes later, the room started to get filled. Everyone took their respective places and made quick chatter. Damian and I stayed quiet though. Perhaps his friends weren’t able to come either, well we had that in common.

Damian was introduced to us before the waiters served our food. Apparently he wasn’t part of the convention but because Wayne Ent. was the one sponsoring, Mr. Wayne deemed it necessary for him to make an appearance.

I sighed to myself and looked around, this really was nothing like I expected it to be.

-x-x-x-

Dinner was delicious. Everyone was happily stuffed and ready for bed. Everyone but me. I couldn’t relax after sitting next to Damian the whole night. I felt his stares multiple times but every time I try to catch him I fail.

As soon as we were done an old man wearing formal attire came to pick him up. Didn’t know where to, but I heard “father” and “penthouse”. Rich kids...

Maybe it was just me who was getting a little paranoid. Maybe it was because of all the rumours I heard of how fan clubs treat other girls who even dared to talk to him other than a polite hi or wave. I shuddered at the thought. Our professor was droning on about the rules (again) and the importance of the buddy system. I briefly wondered if I could sneak out for a small walk around the block or something to release some energy.

And that was exactly where I found myself later that evening. I managed to pass the receptionist and walk a couple of minutes around the area. Not too far, the hotel was still in view. There were people around minding their own business, which was new for me since around this time in Gotham, everyone would be at home. The crisp air felt good, and I was finally able to relax. It was too stuffy being next to him. His smell, it reminded me too much of dad. The memory made a lump form in my throat.

I looked up at the starless sky and blinked back tears. Mom said he’d be proud, I wanted to believe it was true.

“Aw little girl. Why so upset?”

I whirled around and saw a man all dressed in baggy black clothes inch closer at me. “How about you come with me and I can make you feel all better.”

I took a step back as my heart started to race. This was probably not the best idea, even though this was Superman’s City, it didn’t mean crime didn’t exist.

A heavy hand gripped tightly at my shoulder and I realised with utter dread that I was surrounded. Only one way to run and it was through the alley. Every instinct in me shouted that it would be a really bad idea, first off I didn’t know the place, and if I just ran I could very well get lost.

But the grip on my shoulder was worse than anything I could’ve imagined at the moment.

“You’re a pretty little thing aren’t ya.” Another man came in and slid his hands across my cheek before covering my mouth.

His breath smelled of alcohol and smoke. It made me gag.

“I’ve got some great ideas on what I can do with you.” He snickered and dropped his other hand lower onto my chest. I gasped in fear.

No, this isn’t happening.

They pushed me further into the alley, away from prying eyes, and into to the shadows. The man started to grope my waist and hips.

This isn’t happening!

I wanted to fight back, wanted to bite his hand and shout, but my body was frozen. I was in shock. My inner voice was yelling at me to do something, to do anything! But fear clasped me tight and hard.

Then he forced his dirt calloused hand under my shirt and touched my breast.

That snapped me out of it.

With a sense of need to survive I dug my elbow into the man who was holding me and shoved the one in front with as much force as I could muster, exactly how dad taught me. They grunted in pain, and their hold on me lifted. I bolted down the dimly lit passage as soon as I was free.

But they didn’t stop. They called after me, swearing and cursing slurs as they ran. Their footsteps echoed along the tight alley. How many of them were there? 4?

They chanted along what they were planning on doing with me once they catch me. It was horrible. My throat tightening in disgust. I couldn’t even begin to comprehend how their minds worked. The tears were beginning to fall as every turn I took only lead deeper into the maze.

I kept running, taking quick sharp turns in the hopes to loose them. I refused to go like this. But my heart plummeted as soon as I faced a dead end.

They were all laughing at my demise, taking their time to get to me so the fear really soaked in. They strolled and taunted. Taking out their ropes and knives from their coat pockets.

“This was a really stupid idea...” I whimpered to myself, wiping my wet cheeks furiously as I did.

“No shit.” I instantly recognised the voice. “We really need to stop meeting like this.”

A figure dropped in front of me, clad in familiar colours. I felt my knees go weak and a new wave of tears started to fall. I sobbed in relief.

Robin pulled out his katana and growled at the men.

“Do not touch her.” He spat at them.

“Robin? But isn’t he supposed to be with the Bat?” One of them questioned, but he was outright ignored.

Their leader, the one who groped me, laughed. A loud barking sort of laughter.

“Don’t touch her?” He mimicked. “But I already have. Must say, she’s quite soft.” He leered at me, I could feel him undressing me with his eyes and I instantly clutched my jacket tighter.

“Bastard!” Robin shouted and threw himself into battle.

They didn’t look worried though.

“You’re just a boy!” They yelled at him as they aimed to kill.

It didn’t phase him as he attacked with the same precision as he did before. Their bullets were evaded with his quick movements. I protected my head with my arms and dashed behind a corner full of crates.

“Excuse me.”

I turned to the person next to me.

He offered a smile, and I noticed his feet weren’t touching the ground. He was hovering over the air.

“Quit stalling Superboy!” Robin grunted. “Take her someplace safe!”

“You heard him.” He told me, and carried me bridal style before flying away.

I clutched on to him as the ground became further and further away.

“Wait — what about Robin?” My voice sounded weak but I didn’t want to just leave him behind.

Superboy looked at me and grinned. “He’ll be okay.”

He set me down on the roof of a building just above the fight.

“Can you wait here a moment? We’ll be right back.”

He looked a few years older, dressed in his father’s colors and symbol proudly plastered on the middle of his chest.

I managed a small nod before he zipped back down and joined the fight. With a bit more courage I peered down and watched as they bravely fought the men. Superboy withheld from using his lasers too much, I suppose since they were in such an enclosed space. Robin on the other hand looked like he was putting everything he had out there.

It ended quite fast, with the men tied up in a rope. Robin seemed to be talking to Superboy, the metahuman nodded once and pointed up where I was standing. I quickly looked away and walked back.

A grappling hook shot up before hooking itself to the side of the building. Robin swung forward and landed gracefully in front of me. He looked angry.

I tried not to look at him straight in the eye, hoping to make myself smaller.

“Did they hurt you?” He asked, his voice filled with concern but still laced with a little venom.

I bit my bottom lip to keep it from quivering, I felt so ashamed, and so used. I felt dirty.

“He touched me...” I chocked out, trying to keep the tears at bay and failing.

Robin clenched his fists.

“What were you doing outside at this hour?”

“I - I just wanted to take a walk. I didn’t - it wasn’t -“ I was shaking. All I wanted to do was go back home and hide under my covers.

He sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. I heard him walk up to me and hold my chin, turning it towards him as he wiped the tears.

“Stop crying.” He said. “You’re safe now.”

Not being able to help it, I threw my arms around him and hugged him tight. I wasn’t an overly physical type of person but I needed something solid, something safe, to clutch on to after what just happened. I wished my mom was here, but then I also didn’t since all this would do would only worry her more. I dreaded the fact that I needed to tell her what happened. But for now I just breathed in and out, trying to calm myself. Robins arms slowly encircled me, and he patted my shoulder awkwardly.

Wait — this smell…

Arabian oud.

I tensed, and pushed back. Robin looked a little confused at the suddenly change but loosened the hug.

My heart started to race as I looked up at his face. No way, there has to be hundreds with the same perfume, right? I couldn’t, or rather didn’t want to believe it. Was it really him under this mask? I wish I could give myself an answer but I was terrified of what I would find if I looked. I was both mad yet relieved that I didn’t look too closely at his face during dinner or else it might be too easy to pick apart his features. The mask only hid so much. I must’ve been eyeing him for too long because Robin gave me a questioning look.

“I -“ I quickly put a slight distance between us and cleared my throat, hoping the heat on my cheeks would cool down, and my head to stop spinning. “Sorry, and thank you! I... probably should get back.” I finished lamely.

The time it took us to get from where we were to the hotel was filled with silence. I made sure not to make eye contact for too long and when I had to I made sure to ignore everything else. I still wasn’t sure if I wanted to piece the puzzle together... It felt risky. I thanked him again, and asked him to thank Superboy.

Sneaking back into my room was a lot more difficult that sneaking out. Thankfully my roommate and I had separate keys so going in was a breeze. She was already asleep when I got there much to my relief. I headed straight to the shower, eager to scrub off the mans filthy hold on me. I grimaced as I caught my reflection in the mirror, my skin was bright red from all the scrubbing and my eyes were puffy. I sniffed and looked away.

I didn’t sleep that night, not well anyway, but that was to be expected.

...

... to be continued ...

#dc #dc comics #batman #son of batman #damian wayne #Damian Wayne x Reader #fanfiction #my fanfiction #robin #superboy #superman #lex luthor #metropolis #Soulmate AU #My Fan Fiction

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inventors-fair · 4 years ago

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Unlikely Alliance - Commentary Part 1

It’s a week full of two half measures. Potential Pairs. Halves of a Whole.

Astarael, the Crimson Blade by @deafeningsandwichpeach A mix of diverse abilities makes this creature feel rare, rather than uncommon. There’s also no real connection between the abilities, feeling like a strange melting pot. You also might want to watch how you word abilities, as the wording on the first strike ability means that this card can’t work in the deck itself.

Hekara, Rakdos Emissary by @deg99

While I understand what you were going for, the colour identity ability doesn't seem all that necessary, and according to the rules, doesn’t actually work. Prismatic Piper works because the base card is colourless. Abilities like devoid don’t remove a cards colour identity, and the buff that Hekara gives isn’t so powerful that you can’t let this commander pair go into 3/4 colours. And if we place them in a set like commander legends, the only commanders I can really see this going off with in a draft are red or black anyway.

Despite all that, I love that you’re rewarding players for leaning into the “At any cost” that defines rakdos by buffing based on casts and reward with a psuedo fling on death.

Algais, the Sunrider by @dimestoretajic

While I love the idea and how you’ve focused on the typical pegasus ability,, the second ability harshly punishes you for playing with a commander with 4+ power, severely limiting your potential options in a draft or sealed enviroment. You should never punish a player for wanting to experiment with your card.

Noitled, Renegade Oddity by @driftingthroughthecosmos

This is a really cool idea that wants you to play a super specific deck... and that’s the problem. Noitled has no way to trigger their own ability, making that big block of text useless if you didn’t get super lucky and draft a ton of Act of Treason effects.

Beylin, Curious Familiar by @fractured-infinity

This is a cute little design that clearly follows the designs of the cycle of familiars we got in CML that buff commanders, and this is a great contribution to that group. Great work.

Akpt, Stinging Scourge by @gollumni

I’m in two minds about this design. There’s a large amount of infinite comboes that this breeds. Lightning Greaves lets you deck yourself instantly, but outside of those kinds of combos, I’m not sure how useful this would be. Being milled is not as harsh a punishment as a Frost Titan effect would be, making the 5-mana cost seem a little on the harsh side.

Toro Gatha, Stensia’s Warden by @grornt

I love this design, but this is a rare. Unlimited copying of any ability that requires a sacrifice is intensely powerful, rivaling the power level of cards like Panharmonicon and Teysa Karlov as combo pieces.

Oozra, the Flowing Fist by @haru-n-harkel

I absolutely love this design. You can hold off casting Oozra until you’ve cast your other commander a few times, letting Oozra’s first cast be as explosive as you want it to be. This very nearly won one of the top spots, well done!

Su-Chi, Replica Perfected by @hiygamer

Would I give up a second/third colour of my deck to throw myself forward a turn? Yes. Every single time, yes. While this commander immediately degrades in power after the first cast, the first cast is all you’re going to need. An extra mana whenever you need it in your opening turns can do so much damage in the set-up phase of the game. For this reason, I can’t call this card uncommon. Fast mana of this level is a rare.

The Ethereal Caregiver by @i-am-the-one-who-wololoes

While I love the direction you took with this design, this design has a major fault. This is a colorless card with large amounts of draw power. This card can slot into the maindeck of nonwhite, nongreen token decks and draw an unholy amount of cards. If you draft this with Araumi of the Dead Tide, you can draw an absolute onslaught of cards. Encore is so ingrained into commander legends that you’re actually better off drafting this outside of green and white. Even in mono white decks, any decent setup with a sacrifice engine and token generators creates insane amounts of draw power. In trying to make the first ability work as a commander and trying to take a leaf out of piper’s book, you’ve created a colourless draw engine that fits neatly into a massive amount of decks. I love your ambition, and I see what you were trying to do, but that first ability doesn’t really stop this card from being a rare level powerhouse. Ironically, if you had of made this a straight up green and white commander, the power level would come down to a reasonable level. A lesson in hubris, maybe.

Rodah, Reckless Battlemage by @joecurryat

This is a really cool idea, but I don’t think you need the restriction on the mana cost. This card isn’t letting you cast it without paying it’s mana cost, so it seems like an overly harsh condition on a situational impulse draw.

Lassa, Selfless Shieldmate by @kavinika

It’s Resoloute Watchdog and Selfless Saviour, but as a legendary doggo knight! I have nothing else to say except this is a great design that barely missed out on a top spot.

Kihara, Enlightened Surveyor by @ignorantturtlegaming

This is a rare. 2-mana exploration on a stick with a minor restriction, that encourages you to keep playing it to draw a mammoth number of cards. Oh, and she can be paired with any other very cheap commander to get a ramp and draw engine going to catapult you through the game.

#mtg #inventors fair #contest #commentary

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lethendralis-paints · 4 years ago

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Artist Meme

Was tagged to answer this set of interesting questions by @kourvo

(original post is here: https://kourvo.tumblr.com/post/621355098110640128/artist-meme

Thank you so much for that!

Let’s see....

1) What is the character you've drawn the most (Can be original or fanart)

This precious boy. I can never get enough of him. One of the most compelling characters I have ever come across. Love everything about Fenris and can relate to him on so many levels!

2. What colour do you often use?

Gray and brown are my faves. And all other colours have the same chance of appearing in my artwork :D

3. Any colour you are bad at using?

I don’t think so...I love them all, even the pinks and yellows people usually find hard to incorporate into a colour palette. Tell me in the comments if I’m wrong :)

4. When drawing people, where do you start?

Funnily enough - either with the front of the hairline or with the left eyebrow. Don’t ask me, why - I don’t know myself.

5. What is a character only your eraser will love?

Hmmmm...any sort of villainous character. I can’t draw evil people convincingly. I’m a huge softy at heart.

6. Which of your works took the longest time?

Big scale commission I did for @pikapeppa, featuring all the Inquisition companions, along with Fenris, Rynne and Carver Hawke. That one took almost 3 weeks, due to its sheer scope and my relative lack of experience in such large works. Pika was extremely patient with me though, for that I am eternally thankful!

7. What techniques do you use when you want to improve in drawing?

Classical art studies. Varying my technique, themes I choose and software I use. I try to experiment and go outside my comfort zone often.

8. What do you think of the art of the person who gave you this ask meme?

I adore Lillymon’s technical skill, refined style and limited colours! She is a huge inspiration for me!

9. What art tools/media are you good with?

DrawPile, Photoshop, graphite pencils and liners. That’s about it :)

10. Art tools/media you are bad at?

Traditional paints. I have no formal artistic education and my lack of knowledge comes to the forefront whenever I have to paint on a real canvas. It’s so much trial and error, you can’t even imagine....

11. What do you think about your own art?

Lately it’s one of the last few things that were bringing me joy. I hope I won’t lose the passion for it. Because at this point I’m not sure I’ll be able to find some occupation I will be genuinely interested in and good at it. I don’t know if me gravitating towards moody fantasy art speaks about my fear of facing reality. If so, idk what to do with that. I do hope to develop my skills and being able to support myself financially as an artist.

12. Do you consult references for your drawings?

Yes. A lot of them. Anatomical atlases, schemes for both academic and manga art, photographs found online and taken on my own, copying colour palettes from classical art - anything goes. I think it’s essential to develop your technical skill.

13. What do you like about your art?

Lately - consistency, both in terms of produced results and in sticking to the timelines I set to myself. I hope this lasts. I would also like to branch out to other themes and not confine myself to quirky fantasy characters, so I’m working on developing my own story behind the scenes (spoilers) :P

14. What habits do you have while drawing?

Only the bad ones, lol. Hunching forward in front of the screen, forgetting to eat, drink and letting my eyes rest. Tilting my head to the side instead of rotating the canvas....I’m an idiot XD

15. Are you good at drawing faces facing right?

I think that’s the thing I’m good at!

16. How frequently do you draw?

For the last 1,5 years - almost every day without fail, for good or ill.

17. What do you do when you have artist's block?

Change occupation and work myself into a depressed state. I changed work places in the last few years a lot, working as an interior designer, draftsman, textile designer, a cook, a bartender to name a few.

18. What must you have when you draw?

No commotion around me and a cup of some hot beverage.

19. Do you have a lot of stray lines (messy lineart)?

In the starting stage of my work process - yes, like you wouldn’t believe! If it’s a personal doodle, I sometimes just leave in as am under layer and draw clean lines on top of that mess. It looks cool in a way.

20. What is drawing to you?

An essential part of what helped me to retain my sanity in the last year and a half. Hopefully a lasting profession that will help me pay bills and survive on my own, if my life falls apart entirely later.

21. Your art goal from now on?

Broaden the themes I depict, improve my technical skill, work on personal creative project and not only fan arts. And most of all - not giving up on it this time.

22. Artists you've had influence from?

To name a few: @kallielef @kourvo @shayafury @fairsparrow who I met here on Tumblr, and many others who I follow and zealously study their works for clues on how to improve my own work.

23. Artists you like?

I am following them all either here or on Instagram, I also do my best to share their works on my side blog!

24. Which is easier to draw, humans or animals?

It was animals earlier. But now that I started to diligently study human anatomy, I would say it evened out! I’m quite confident drawing humans/humanoids now!

25. Show us an old drawing

My first digital drawing from 2010 when I first bought my tablet!

26. What is the charm-point of your art?

I ummm....I don’t really get the question? Is that like the the strongest suit of me as an artist? Intense expressions maybe? Idk. Let me know in the comments :D

27. What is the first thing you would draw if we're talking about fantasy?

Broody warriors, he-he

28. Please draw your most beloved character:

Here’s a sneak-peek of me drawing him right now! :D

29. When thinking of characters is it mostly female? male? or androgynous/no sex?

I usually gravitate towards depicting strong-willed, caring, passionate, brave, honest men and women.

30. What did you draw yesterday?

Started cleaning up that sketch from the last question, actually!

31. What is the funnest part to draw?

A circle. Mostly because you’d die laughing seeing my struggle to draw a believable one XD

32. What part of other people's drawings do you notice first?

colours, mood, eyes, hands.

33. Regarding backgrounds, what is your method of making it easier to draw?

pick your favourite textured brush, find a good reference for mood and colour scheme, zoom out, squint your eyes and start slapping colours like mad. You’d be amazed at how much you’ll be able to achieve in 30 minutes with this approach. Bare white background is the enemy - destroy it! >:)

34. What colour coordinations do you like?

Gray or brown as a main colour and then deep, earthy, saturated colours to complement the main one. Pink and orange is the combination I strangely enjoy using lately too.

35. What character did you last draw? Fenris and Eris :)

36. Does your style change easily?

I don’t think so. More like it’s evolving slowly into something more serious and deliberate.

37. What part of drawing do you pay most attention to?

Facial expression, body movement, mood and light effects. Not so much the composition and framing, he he.

38. How do you feel about drawing adult art?

Tbh, I don’t consider straight up porn to be ‘adult’ exactly. To me adult art means aiming towards serious topics, exploring complex emotions and ideas, being honest with your viewer. I did doodle a few more steamy sketches of my OTP just to see if I could, but it was definitely a tongue-in-cheek kind of a artwork that I don’t take seriously.

39. Do you like criticism from others?

If it’s friendly and in done in private - I welcome it always.

40. How many people do you normally draw per artwork?

1 or 2. Rarely more. Crowded battle scenes are definitely not my thing :D

This was fun! Tagging forward to @shayafury @schoute @stella-minerva @nug-juggler @kallielef and anyone else wishing to go through such a long questionnaire!

#artist meme #art questions #art style #lethendralis rambles #my art

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appleb0mb · 4 years ago

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Agapanthus - Art Process! (Part One)

Lemme just say - Agapanthus is by far the most hardest track and art I’ve ever made. Like sleep was basically non-existent here-

Step One: Rough Draft

This was created on December 27th - around 4 days before the release of Agapanthus, I believe. However I’m not gonna lie, this is looking pretty horrible. I’m glad I didn’t even continue with this reference ( ｡_｡) .

I remember using myself as reference, but that wasn’t really working out. I really wanted Vil to have an intimidating look to him, and he’s just staring you down - underestimating MC/Yuu. But I realized...

That isn’t Vil. Vil isn’t like that at all, and it completely changed the idea about him. So I decided to change the expression and pose that Vil was making and start it all over instead.

Step Two (1): Rough Lineart + Cleanup (Head)

Okkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk....

I had to change and redraw a lot of the pose I was making! It was incredibly risky, but I had to do it anyways!

Just for you guys, I made sure to break it down a bit more so you can see what’s behind the scenes in more depth...

I did the head in the following order:

(1) Head

(2) Eyes, Nose, and Mouth

(3) Hair

*(4) Halos - Zwei (middle)

*(5) Einz (left), Drei (right)

(6) Crown - I used the crown from The Aphrodites and add it to his hair heheheh

(7) Agapanthus #1 - THIS ONE TOOK ME LIKE 6+ LAYERS TO DO LOL

*For Step 4 - I split the structure of the halo into two layers: A circle, and sharp pointy things before merging the layers together. I made sure to not let the pointy areas overlap with the circle. Lots of Control + Z was used here LOL

As for Step 5 the halos can be one or the other, I don’t know which one I started with at the time.

For his expression, I must admit that I don’t like it. It makes Vil look puzzled, or dumbfounded yet...a bit hopeful. But after seeing what happened to Step One, I decided to go along with it (:P).

< Note: For Step Two, I did the rough lineart -> cleanup for each part - so that’s why I merged Step Two and Three together. >

Step Two (2): Rough Lineart + Cleanup (Agapanthus AND Crocus)

OH HELP ME NOW LOL (˙ ͜ʟ˙ )

I’m sorry, this part was the most longest things I’ve ever taken when it comes to lineart. I’m sorry.

Seriously! This was one of the longest because it was not one flower, but a BOUQUET of flowers!!! I remember my back hurting a lot and didn’t getting enough sleep as a result...this took me 12 hours to finish just the bouquet alone.

Apologies for the detail below!!!

Note: For some information, I won’t go into detail since it’s impossible to see with the picture above due to the picture limit.

(1) Drawing the Flowers:

(1) Agapanthus (wide, inward, middle flowers)- This took about six layers to do the following:

(1.1) FLOWER (DRAFT) - Here, I drew the basics of its form and its shape. I drew a donut-like shape and short piece of the stem before doing the lineart.

(1.2) Flower (Lineart):

(1.2.1) Flower - Lineart - OPEN FLOWER: I did the five petal shaped flower first, then refined it to have a finished look.

(1.2.2) Flower - Lineart - CLOSED FLOWER

(1.2.3) Flower - Lineart - UNBLOOMED FLOWER

(1.2.4) Flower - Lineart - STEM STICKS (idk what to call it) - and that’s it!

(2) Crocus (outward, left and right flowers) - I have the full process of this, so here it is:

(2.1) FLOWER (DRAFT)- I made sure to do a rough outline of the shape so I could have an idea of what I was doing, and make sure the flower was proportionate to the track cover.

(2.2) FLOWER (LINEART) - This is where I drew the lineart and added detail for the petals and their design (at the same time).

(2.3) STEM (DRAFT) - Even though I don’t have it in the art file, I believed I did it to make sure it was proportionate to size of the flower.

(2.4) STEM + LEAVES - This is when I did the lineart and added the details (at the same time). I then did the leaves as an additional design.

(2.5) MERGE LAYER OF STEM + FLOWER- and it’s finished!

(2) Cleaning up the Flowers:

The cleanup took the longest, since you have to erase the details of the flowers that was overlapped. Took the longest out of the 12 hours.

(2.1) Agapanthus:

(2.1.1) AGAPANTHUS - MIDDLE OF PAINTING/CENTRE (one touching Vil’s face)

(2.1.2) AGAPANTHUS - MIDDLE/CENTRE: LEFT (touching Vil’s left shoulder)

(2.1.3) AGAPANTHUS - MIDDLE/CENTRE: RIGHT (touching Vil’s right shoulder)

(2.1.4) AGAPANTHUS - BOTTOM OF PAINTING: LEFT

(2.1.5) AGAPANTHUS - BOTTOM OF PAINTING: RIGHT

(2.2) Crocus:

(2.2.1) CROCUS - TOP LEFT

(2.2.2) CROCUS - TOP RIGHT

(2.2.3) CROCUS - BOTTOM LEFT

(2.2.4) BOTTOM RIGHT

Step Two (3): Rough Lineart + Cleanup (Upper Body)

As usual, I love the lineart more than the final product (˶′◡‵˶). Especially this lineart - it’s rather mesmerizing to me!

Even Vil without colour looks absolutely beautiful...I love him (I’m starting to stan him (kind of))

But anyways! Here is the order I did the body in:

(1) Head (already completed by then)

(2) Neck

(3) Neckish Shoulders (I don’t know what to call them - his toned necked muscles??? But it’s located around his neck)

*(4) Shoulders

*(5) Lower Body

*(6) Golden Details + Corset!

*For Number 4, I had to do multiple attempts because the shoulders weren’t proportionate to his body. I remembering 2 - 4 layers before choosing a final rough draft to work with.

As for Number 5, I also had to do multiple attempts as well because the original rough draft was not proportionate with the pose above. I did two rough drafts (I believe), but I don’t think I used them - I worked with the layer that looked the best.

For Number 6, the golden details were originally in black, but I used the Fill Tool and a bit of erasing and adding to give the final look above. I would say cleanup was the hardest thing for the details, since it heavily overlapped the Agapanthuses and Crocuses...

Thank you for reading this whole post! A Part 2 will come out in the next few days, so please stay tuned.

ALSO THE CLEANUP FOR ME SUCKED LOLOLOL. I CAN REMEMBER THE PAIN (◎ܫ◎ ◎ܫ◎ ◎ܫ◎ ◎ܫ◎ ◎ܫ◎ ◎ܫ◎ ◎ܫ◎)-

Have a wonderful day you guys! :D!

#TWSTxDAL #TWSTxDAL art process #twisted wonderland #twst #date a live #pomefiore #vil schoenheit #twst vil #bruh this took me forever and a dayyyyy #I was kind of rushing on Vil but honestly he's looking MIGHTY FINE #plus it's 11 PM and I'm hoping for the best for my poor soul :)))#I'm gonna admit that Vil was a sTEP uP of my art process and my tracks #though the piece is a double sword for me - I love it and hate it (but love it)#anyways bye now! AND I'M SO SORRY FOR NOT UPLOADING ANY ORIGINAL CONTENT #it's just that work and school isn't working well...but luckily I'm getting a break!#...soon...

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custardcove · 4 years ago

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Here’s a fifteen-questions meme I stole from my splat-blog!

I’m not tagging fifteen people, but if you’re a mutual of mine that wants to take part, consider yourself tagged.

1. Are you named after anyone?

Pansy: A flower, if that counts! It’s a family tradition for the firstborn.

Ivan: Not exactly. I share a name with some video game character Alice liked the sound of.

Queenie: Sadly not. While I appreciate that my name stands out, sharing a name with one of my ancestors would’ve been a mark of pride.

Taylor: Mmmnope. I like ‘Taylor’ enough because it starts with a T like Tomiichi, but I wasn’t named after anybody—though you know, as a point of interest, it was meant to rhyme with my brother’s name!

Neo: I was named after my grandmother.

2. When was the last time you cried?

Pansy: Aw, man… I try to stay positive around Prim, but I do cry about silly stuff sometimes. Maybe a week ago? Sometimes the past just catches up to you.

Ivan: Longer than I can remember.

Queenie: What an invasive question! I don’t think that’s any of your business. I do not cry frequently.

Taylor: Now why’d you want to know a thing like that? I think I’ll keep it to myself!

Neo: Mind your own business.

3. Do you have kids?

Pansy: Have you met Primrose? That’s my daughter. She’s really sweet, but she’s also quite shy, so please keep that in mind.

Ivan: This is a difficult question to answer. I’d say no. I don’t think granting someone’s wish makes me a father.

Queenie: Not yet. I intend to.

Taylor: Woah, no! Do I look responsible enough to be a dad? Ahah…

Neo: No. I would rather not.

4. Do you use sarcasm a lot?

Pansy: I try not to, er, I’m not so great at it. And it’s kinda mean.

Ivan: I get reprimanded for being sarcastic. It happens regularly.

Queenie: What do you think?

Taylor: There’s always room for some well-placed sarcasm!

Neo: Any time I make a joke.

5. What’s the first thing you notice about people?

Pansy: I try to get a good read on folks—so, I guess their whole profile? That’s before I start looking at their individual features. If something sticks out to me from there, I’ll focus on that—but not in a mean way! Like, seeing someone’s smile, or if they’re carrying something, or their size, or claws. That’s what I mean.

Ivan: Their aura. It’s not difficult for me to discern a person’s moral alignment, and that’s important for my role.

Queenie: Their posture, how they walk, how they talk. It’s important for a first impression and can often be an indication of status. Or, perhaps more importantly, an indication of their intent…

Taylor: Their mood! I don’t want to step on the toes of anyone that’s angry, and happier people are more likely to give you the time of day, you know? Improving someone’s low mood is great too, but I have to gauge my limits.

Neo: I’m not known for noticing people. How social they are, I suppose.

6. What’s your eye colour?

Pansy: Psychic pink! They do that thing where they get more vivid when I use my powers—just the psychic ones, though. And I don’t use those too much ‘cause I risk a headache… still, I like my eyes.

Ivan: Brown, orange.

Queenie: Smoky Quartz.

Taylor: Brown. You know, like coffee? If I were a coffee, I think I’d be a Caffe Latte. … But, yeah they’re darker than that.

Neo: …I don’t mind my eyes being green as much as my hair.

7. Scary movie or happy ending?

Pansy: Don’t mind either one, but I’d prefer a happy ending, even in a scary movie. That said, there are scary movies I just won’t watch, so I guess happy endings win out.

Ivan: I don’t waste much time watching films unless I’m asked to, but I prefer a happy ending. A good story is the most important, though.

Queenie: Happy endings are far too sappy and saccharine, but I can’t say I receive much thrill from horror either. That’s not to say I don’t enjoy watching them … my favourite part of a movie is criticizing it.

Taylor: Happy endings, please! I can’t understand why anyone would want to scare themselves – unless it’s silly fun, but that’s different. Y’know, not that I scare easy or anything…

Neo: Scary movies tend to be more interesting, but… I don’t have anything against happy endings. Horror isn’t my genre, either, unless it’s psychological.

8. Any special talents?

Pansy: I have a bit of a green thumb!

Ivan: That all depends on your perspective.

Queenie: I’m an excellent piano player.

Taylor: People tell me I’ve got a lot of charisma, and I consider that a talent!

Neo: I suppose converting myself into digital matter could be considered a talent.

9. Where were you born?

Pansy: A town not so different from Erryton, actually! It’s not far.

Ivan: Great question.

Queenie: Enigma Island, not far from Thorn’s Peak.

Taylor: Would you believe me if I told you I couldn’t remember? Aha. I know we moved when I was really young.

Neo: Doesn’t matter.

10. What are your hobbies?

Pansy: Well, like I mentioned, I quite like doing plant stuff. I used to sketch ‘em and make notes about ‘em too, but I stick more to the practical side these days. I also like to bake! Mainly pies, cakes and cookies.

Ivan: I play the flute and cithara. Next question.

Queenie: I have a wide array of hobbies. I enjoy painting, reading, and playing the piano—as I have already mentioned. While I’m not … particularly adept at sewing, I practice cross-stitch on occasion. I also like to write poetry, and take a bit of interest in botany…

Taylor: Most of my hobbies have some aspect of music tied to them—I like playing the guitar, mixing tracks, and just listening to albums. But I also like playing videogames and taking apart machinery for fun. I can even help people fix things! Er, sometimes.

Neo: I read comics and watch movies, like most people. You wouldn’t be interested.

11. Do you have any pets?

Pansy: Not anymore, but I’ve had two cats – Mr Ravioli in my childhood home, and then Kiki later on. I’ve considered getting another, but I think I should wait until Primmy is a little older…

Ivan: No.

Queenie: Estelle! She’s a darling little kitty-cat and I love her so. <3

Taylor: One dog, a shibe—my father bred his, and I got a puppy. Tadashi!

Neo: My brother makes robots, and we have one of those roving floor cleaners. I would consider that a pet. We call him V.I.N.CENT.

12. What sports do you/have you played?

Pansy: I’m not really big on sports – I like magic fights? But I don’t do that a lot now.

Ivan: I may have taken part in some sport or another, but if I did, I did not commit it to memory.

Queenie: I like to swim, though I have not played any sports as such. I have also been horse riding—oh, and I’ve played badminton once or twice.

Taylor: Alice likes table tennis, and we play together sometimes. Apart from that, um… I’ve been asked to play football and baseball before?

Neo: I like to run. Parkour is fun too.

13. How tall are you?

Pansy: Five foot seven, and I’m the shortest in my family…

Ivan: Depends.

Queenie: A reasonable five feet and ten inches without heels.

Taylor: Ahaha … let’s just skip this one, shall we? You don’t need to know that.

Neo: Taller than you.

14. Dream job?

Pansy: I’ve pretty much got my dream job, all things considered! I guess I’d like it if I could get paid to do plant study, but I never really had the grades to do that as a job.

Ivan: I’m working on my rank.

Queenie: I have entertained the possibility of having a career before. Hotel management seems like an interesting prospect … or a jeweller, perhaps? Oho, I don’t know if I could be trusted to sell anything. Either way, I’m comfortable enough managing my home and finances.

Taylor: I’ve always wanted to be a big-name tv presenter—hell, even a small-name gameshow host! I’ve not given up on my dream yet, but being a radio show host is close enough. I can use it as a stepping stone. Yeah, a music quiz show would be great…

Neo: I don’t know. Even when it comes to things I like doing, I’m not sure I’d want to make a job out of it. Coding is just convenient.

15. Favourite subject in school?

Pansy: Science! I also liked geography, ‘cause I was pretty decent at it.

Ivan: I have never attended school.

Queenie: I’ve both been to school and had private tutors, but my favourite subjects were history and literature. They rely on eachother, so were easy to write papers on.

Taylor: Apart from the obvious ‘music’, it was mathematics—and yes, I’m serious! I also liked science and IT.

Neo: From what I remember of school, I liked science and computing classes. The rest of what I learned was from online courses.

That’s… that’s it? It just ends? Alright then.

#Pansy #Ivan #Queenie #Taylor #Neo #OC Questions

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deepdisireslonging · 4 years ago

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Standing Against the Past

A rumbling is spreading through the locker rooms. Should retired wrestlers continue to fight, or should they let the next generation have their chance to make history? The children of two legacies, Charlotte Flair and Randy Orton, seek to answer this by forming an alliance.

Pairing: None

Warnings/Promises: wrestling violence, unusual formating

Word Count: 4220

Note: I would love to write out this whole thing. But I don’t have the time, nor the energy for it. So, I’m trying something a little different. I wrote out what is usually an outline for me, and that is what I’m going to post. Nor am I waiting till Friday to do so. Here and there are scenes that I really need to keep from bouncing around in my head. If this works, for the most part, I might keep doing things this way so I can continue to create content, and continue to be creative for creative sake. Let me know your thoughts about this with comments, reblogs, gif reactions, etc. Enjoy!

January - Monday 2/Week 1 “Recap”

“Natural Selection near the ropes. Could this put away Lacey Evans? Wait- what?”

Charlotte Flair twisted around, wondering why the three-count had not been completed. Ric Flair pointed at the bottom rope, and at the ankle he had just put there. She took in the sight of Lacey’s ankle not on the canvas, but on the rope. She slowly turned to look at her father. He backed away from the ring. The Nature Boy had never been a face, not really. But damn if he didn’t try to look innocent.

The match continued for about another thirty seconds. If that long. With another interference from her father, Charlotte lost the match.

Quickly, Ric backed further away from the ring, terrified of his daughter’s quiet rage fuming there. By the time Lacey was by his side, he was all smiles.

*What the hell just happened?* Charlotte thought.

***

Randy Orton glared across the canvas as Triple H hauled up his iconic sledgehammer. But it was wrong. Very wrong. Flames covered the hunk of metal at the top. Soon, that was the only light in the arena. When it went out, it took the Cerebral Assassin with it, replacing him with a purple hue and burned apprehension into Randy’s chest.

Slowly, he turned to look over his shoulder, spotting Alexa Bliss.

Pain.

Within another thirty seconds, his eyes were burned by the firebolt that Little Miss Bliss shot at him. He rolled on the canvas, screaming in agony as the show came to a close.

***

Even when he removed the icepack to his lap, he didn’t glance at her as she stepped into the shadows. “Legends are hard to get rid of, aren’t they?” He chuckled. “Thought you’d be enough for Lacey though.”

“And I thought for sure that you’d be enough for Alexa, but here we are.” Charlotte shuddered to control herself. “I hate that I have to ask, but how did you do it? When you wrestle, your Dad barely comes up at all besides the odd mention that you’re a third generation.” She grit her teeth. “I can’t seem to breathe without his legacy coming up.”

“I have the benefit that my Dad doesn’t come around the ring anymore. Yours can’t seem to stay away.” He made eye contact. “Despite your best efforts.”

Knuckles paling under the force, Charlotte held her fist to her lips. “There’s a way to fix that,” she whispered.

Now she had his full attention. Randy turned to face her. Under her calm complexion, he could see, and understand, the rage boiling in her blood. The blood of a Flair.

“For me to get rid of him-”

“Permanently away from the ring-”

“I would have to break his spirit. Wrestling has been his whole life.” Randy cocked his head to side. “Are you ready to accept the consequences?”

Charlotte hesitated. She licked her lips. “At a minimum, do enough to keep him away long enough for me to demolish Lacey.” Her breath stuttered. This was probably a mistake. Randy was too ready, too eager to destroy a life. To destroy a heritage. “If you go even an inch too far,” she snarled, “I will cut the head off the viper myself.”

He had to laugh. “That’s supposed to dissuade me? Maybe I like the idea of that challenge. Perhaps I can kill the Flair name for good.”

“Try, and I can promise you there will not be a fourth generation of Ortons to step into the ring.”

“Threatening my family-”

“Do not think to overstep our understanding. We were both bred for this business. Cross that line, and I will cross you further than you’d ever be willing to go. But this isn’t how I want to do things. I’m here to offer help with your little Bliss problem in return-”

“You’re here because you can’t do yourself,” he shot back. He stepped into her space. “Because you’re scared ‘daddy’ won’t love his little girl anymore.”

Unbothered, Charlotte tilted her head. Randy’s mind flashed with the memory of Alexa Bliss tilting her head in a similar fashion. And the danger it meant. “If our places were switched, and you were the one stifled under your own family name, would you be able to do it on your own?”

Randy leaned back, levelling his gaze. After a minute of consideration, he rumbled out an answer. “I would do whatever it took to stand on my own feet.” His Adam’s apple bobbed. “Do you have a time limit to this… request?”

“As soon as possible.” They nodded at one another. Before she left, Charlotte tossed back, “I won’t forget this, Randy.” She disappeared down the hall.

Randy grinned. “You won’t. I won’t let you.”

***

January - Monday 3/Week 2 “Beginnings”

Hunter is still missing. Commentary questions Randy’s next move, and the health of his eyes after last week’s attack.

Lacey vs Charlotte Part 2:

Ric is fully in Lacey’s corner

Halfway through the match, Randy RKO’s him onto the ringside mat before disappearing behind the Thunderdome screens.

Charlotte wins undeniably and brutally

Charlotte tells her post-match interviewer that, “Yes, Lacey was not the first nor the last person to flirt with my father. But she was the most satisfying to put down.”

By her side, Randy avoids questions about his “assist”

***

January - Monday 4/Week 3

Lacey talks nasty about Charlotte allowing Randy to RKO her own father. Claims they could have settled this “like women.”

Peyton walks up and points out she tried. It was Lacey who “threw the first punch” by kissing Ric’s cheek a few weeks ago.

They have to team against Nia Jax/Shayna Baszler

They lose because of squabbling

Randy’s eyes are more healed

The lights go out backstage, but they come back when Charlotte hurries to back him up. They both find that interesting

There’s a rush of people down the hall: Hunter has been found

A message is left on his body: a 1st-degree burn on his face of a handprint covering his mouth. He is taken away to a medical facility

Charlotte wonders what she’s gotten herself into

*** February - Monday 1/Week 4

Asuka and Charlotte are scheduled to defend

Asuka asks her if she trusts Randy

Charlotte doesn’t, not by a mile, but Lacey and Ric seemed to be handled. So she owes him a little help like she promised.

They face Nia and Shayna

Lacey interferes, but it counts as a disqualification and the Women’s Tag Titles are retained

Peyton claims nothing to do with it when Charlotte and Asuka glare at her

The Hurt Business challenges Randy because he’s “free, and the biggest threat on Monday Night Raw. Well, besides Bobby Lashley.”

"You need to be taught a lesson in how to respect 'your elders.'" "My elders? You haven't been paying attention."

In the background, a Rambling Rabbit with red cross-stitched eyes and patchwork fur pops up

Cedric Alexander interferes in the match, still snubbed that his contributions to the Hurt Business haven’t been appreciated

Randy launches at him for ruining his match, but before he can RKO Cedric for his trouble, the lights go out and Alexa Bliss shows up

Acting before she can shoot him again, he runs at her. The lights go out again, but this time when they come back up, she’s on the opposite side of the ring. He dodges the fireblast. Alexa continues to toy with him.

Charlotte appears on the apron, bringing a kendo stick down on Alexa’s head

Alexa disappears, leaving Randy and Charlotte to look at each other.

***

February - Monday 2/Week 5

Randy confronts Charlotte, asking her why she got involved like that. He didn’t ask her to attack Alexa

Charlotte claims she wanted them to be even, favour for favour

Randy says that was a mistake. Now Alexa, and Wyatt/the Fiend, will target her too

Charlotte: “I can handle myself.”

Abby the Witch puppet watches from aground a corner. Her vein is now red and her mouth hangs open, lopsided

Asuka/Charlotte vs Mandy/Dana

Alexa interferes, and the titles are lost

Asuka blames her. Charlotte fully understands and agrees.

Charlotte: “Now you’ll have time to defend the Raw Women’s Championship like you should. And you won’t have to look over your shoulder for me. I’m going to be a little busy.”

After Asuka leaves, Randy walks up. They don’t say anything, but share a nod. Time to get down to business.

***

February - Monday 3/Week 6

Charlotte demands that Alexa shows herself, Randy watches their backs

In a Firefly Funhouse episode, Alexa is putting the Funhouse back together.

Ducktape on the walls is covered over with strips of brightly-coloured Washi tape, there is more Alexa-esque pink in the room

The burning house portrait is bigger

Alexa only talks to Charlotte

“It’s long been said that you can pick your nose, and your friends, but not your friend’s nose… but Randy is one friend you should not have picked.”

Alexa compares her to a bird in her ring regalia and suggests she be careful not to catch her wings on fire

Randy: “I should have torched the place.”

Wyatt/the Fiend’s laugh ends the episode, covering up Alexa’s laugh

Charlotte is aghast. “What the hell was that?”

Randy: “Welcome to the Funhouse.” And, “If a voice starts asking you to ‘let Him in... “

Charlotte steels herself for war

Update about Hunter: he is physically recovered but hasn’t spoken much, suggesting psychological damage

***

February - Monday 4/Week 7

A package is delivered to Charlotte. It’s a puppet carticulture of herself. A match is announced between her and Alexa for later that night

Asuka offers her Green Mist, Charlotte declines

Randy vs Cedric Alexander

Randy: “I owe you an RKO.”

Randy keeps looking over his shoulder for Alexa/Wyatt/Fiend/any shenanigans

Cedric keeps a lookout for the Hurt Business

Ricochet surprisingly shows up for commentary

Wants to see what Cedric is like post-Hurt Business

Lights go out, but not for Randy. It’s Retribution for Ricochet

In the confusion, Randy catches Cedric with an RKO and wins

Charlotte vs Alexa Bliss

Charlotte wins, only because she started right off the bat with heel-ish short cuts

Alexa laughs with her loss

The Fiend makes an appearance, teleporting Alexa away before Randy can catch him

***

March - Monday 1/Week 8 + PPV

PPV: 2 on 1 with Randy/Charlotte vs Alexa Bliss

Alexa toys with both of them, riling them both up into making mistakes

Randy RKO’s her, and Charlotte ties her up in the Figure 4 for the win

Monday Night Raw

Randy and Charlotte discuss the match

Randy: “That’s not the end of it. There will never be an end.”

Charlotte: “Agreed.” She slips into thought. “It would be nice… to have a little backup.”

Mustafa Ali vs Ricochet vs Cedric

Mustafa wins with minimal assistance from Retribution

Charlotte shows up backstage to talk to Mustafa Ali

“Well, what can we do for you Ms Flair?”

Charlotte looked away from Mustafa Ali’s smug welcome. A tiny tilt of her head to the right, and then to the left, confirmed that she was surrounded. Retribution didn’t waste time. She could appreciate that, despite the imminent danger she was in. A Queen is not bothered by the movements of minions. “I was impressed by your little speech on Raw Talk, and your passion since then. Not many people are brave enough to call out the WWE for placing their heroes on unsteady pedestals.”

“Unsteady?”

As Reckoning stepped close enough to feel her breath on her skin, Charlotte rolled her shoulders back. “Yes. It’s very… easy for a legend to fall. Especially if they continue to come back into a world full of younger blood.” She bit back a snarl as Mustafa’s smile slid onto his face. “Very easy for them to… embarrass themselves.”

He didn’t beat around the bush. “Like your father with Lacey.”

She hissed a breath. “Yes. Like my father with Lacey.” Patiently she waited for him to ask what she wanted. What he could do for her.

Instead, he leaned against a crate and crossed his arms. “I want to hear you say it. I want you to admit it.”

Retribution chuckled around her.

“My father was long past his prime. He had no business being near a ring beyond token appearances for when the WWE Universe wanted to reminisce. And he had no business,” she hissed, pinching her fingers together, “getting involved in my matches. Especially not for that-”

“Be civil, Ms Flair.” Mustafa joked, “you are a queen after all. And must hold to higher standards-”

“Cut the bull shit.” She ignored the tittering laughter around her. “I may not agree with the methods you’ve used over the past several months to weaken the roster. But-” with a shallow breath she had to admit, “I agree with your… teachings.” Her eyebrows met in confusion. “If that’s what you’re calling them.”

Mustafa shrugged. “Close enough.” With a nod, Retribution abandoned haunting Charlotte and stood at his side. “That’s all well and good. Having your… backing.” He side-eyed Slap-Jack. “But we never needed your permission to attack your father. We could have eliminated him any time we wanted. Luckily for him, the Viper put him out of his misery first. None of this explains why-”

“We are the children of NXT. It is our job to pave the way so that the next generation can walk into their spotlight. The only weakness in your teachings is that people who listen to them do not abide by them. Ricochet still hasn’t joined your fold. And the Fiend is still wreaking havoc on our- your roster.”

The leader’s eyebrows shot up.

Charlotte swallowed away the dry taste in her mouth. “You could do great things in the WWE, Mr Ali. I want to assist you. Briefly.”

“Well now.” Mustafa walked slowly around her. “That is a promising opportunity.” He stopped by her shoulder. “I assume you’d want assistance in turn with Alexa Bliss.”

“Yes.”

He nodded at Reckoning. She ran off, disappearing into the hallway’s shadows. “We’ll look into it. Tonight. As for the Fiend…” Mustafa pursed his lips. “That will take time. Let’s talk.”

Like a hive moving as one, Retribution followed their leader further into the darkness of backstage. After a moment’s hesitation, so did Charlotte Flair.

***

March - Monday 2/Week 9

Retribution vs. Hurt Business

Charlotte takes it to MVP on the mic, making him stutter and flustered

Randy teams with Slap-Jack against Lashley and Shelton and beats them

They all pose in the ring

Mustafa climbed into the ring as the Hurt Business rushed to escape it. As he took his position in the centre of the ring, Charlotte and Randy flanked him on either side. As he raised his arm to finish his pose, the rest of Retribution filed in, completing a pyramid that filled the ring.

The collective of such a body of wrestlers was a loud message: there was no room in any ring for anyone who thought otherwise than them. Retribution, and the legacies of Charlotte and Randy, were going to take the wrestling universe by storm like never before.

Mustafa and Randy “chat”

Randy is updated with Mustafa’s cause, and made aware that the continuation of his career is dependant on Mustafa’s mercy. Randy has been wrestling for a long time, almost too long to be considered “this generation.” But… Charlotte, a fellow child of NXT, vouches for him. So they’re good. For now.

When asked about why she’s added teaming up with Retribution, Charlotte points out that her alliance with Randy Orton started because her father put his nose into business he shouldn’t have. It was just luck that she found Randy first. Both alliances would have gotten her to this moment, achieving exactly what she wanted to do: cementing her reign over the WWE Universe.

***

March-August: Week 10

Over the next several months, Retribution continues to convince the WWE Universe that the “Old Golden Age” of WWE is over. It’s been over for a long time, and now is the time for the new, fabulous talent that the McMahons and ‘powers that be’ have been hiding backstage to make their mark on history.

Mustafa confronts Drew McIntyre about facing Goldburg at the Royal Rumble when there were plenty of wrestlers he could have faced from his own generation.

McIntyre looks like he’s about to retaliate, but Charlotte and Randy walk out onto the stage, flanked by Retribution. McIntyre pauses enough for Mustafa to continue.

“Respect had nothing to do with it. He called you out because he wanted to be relevant again. Because he wanted a paycheck. If you’d done your job, you would have reminded him that by retaining your World Title, that he was no better than Brock Lesner for being a three-appearance-a-year wrestler.”

He gets slapped, and Claymore kicked for pointing it out. Randy and Retribution come to his aid, beating McIntyre down. They undermine his matches after that, even going so far as to take out Sheamus and Keith Lee, dragging them to the ring to prove a point to the Scotsman.

They do the same to Jeff Hardy, Bobby Lashley, Daniel Bryan, and any Legend-apologists.

Wrestlers start to choose sides. Most of them agree with Retribution’s influence.

Ricochet is the only one that remains truly neutral, and mostly because he knows Mustafa Ali best.

He doesn’t face him head-on; not in the ring. Mostly he confronts people with the opposites of their observations. If they are anti-Legends, he digs down as to why they believe that. If they are pro-Legends, he asks why they are so quick to disagree with their peers.

Charlotte and Randy both drop their last names, though Randy reluctantly.

***

Week 11 - September Week 2

McIntyre offers an open challenge, assuming Randy Orton will accept it

Mustafa answers instead and wins

McIntyre: “You won’t let him keep it. You’re not that kind of man, Randy.”

Asuka stands with McIntyre and the Legend Apologists

Charlotte tries to point out that Asuka was shoved into the shadow when she moved to the main roster from NXT. Her undefeated streak was broken.

Asuka: “Yes. By you!”

Asuka vs Mia Yim/Reckoning for the Women’s Raw Championship

It ends in a draw

Charlotte is ringside, but she never interferes

On Smackdown, Hunter meets with Roman Reigns

Hunter receives a cold reception

Seth Rollins won’t talk to him either

Roman and Seth don’t talk to one another or even look at each other’s matches, but they acknowledge each other’s presence backstage

***

Week 12 - September Week 3

McIntyre challenges Mustafa for the World Title back

Fails

Charlotte steps into the ring before he can rampage against Mustafa. They stare each other down.

McIntyre backs down claiming respect for her father. She slaps him.

Retribution and Randy step in front of her before he can retaliate.

McIntyre surrounded, Ricochet/Sheamus/Keith Lee/ other Legend Apologists come out t back him up

Asuka issues open challenge for the Raw Women’s Championship expecting Charlotte or Reckoning/Mia Yim to accept

Rhea Ripley answers the challenge, officially moving to Raw. She fights Asuka unaided and wins

***

Week 13: Confrontation - September Week 4

Hunter speaks to Randy again. Before it can break into a fight, Stephanie McMahon shows up with Charlotte and Mustafa quick on her heels.

Hunter has to look Mustafa in the eye while being blamed for not “upholding the promise you made.”

Mustafa calls him a future legend.

“You’re not in the way. You don’t fight unless provoked. That’s how a legend, how a legacy, should act. They need to stay out of this generation’s business until called upon.”

“Those that retire need to stay retired.”

***

Week 14 - October Week 1

Charlotte dares MVP to put Lashley’s USA title on the line. She pokes and goads him until he accepts, much to Lashey’s chagrin

Open Challenge: Cedric Alexander answers and wins with Retribution’s help, since Shelton and MVP kept involving themselves in the match.

The other Retribution champions come out, holding their titles high.

Mustafa Ali with his Heavyweight title, Rhea Ripley with the Raw Woman’s title, and Cedric with the USA title. Randy and Charlotte stand behind them, hovering.

That Friday on Smackdown:

Hunter visits Roman again, warning him about the impending Survivor Series show coming up.

Hunter: “They might come for your championship too.”

Roman: “Let them try.”

***

Week 15: Survivor Series Season/Hunting Season - October Week 2

On Raw, there is a video package from Retribution promising that the whole WWE Universe was going to see the world in a new light, one provided by Retribution

Smackdown: Retribution/Randy/Charlotte invade Smackdown, beating up Roman and Smackdown’s Leged Apologists, including Daniel Bryan and Sasha Banks

Sami Zayn, Shinsuke and Cesaro, and Baron Corbin help with the destruction of their peers, aligning themselves with the Raw visitors

***

Week 16 - October Week 3

Smackdown and NXT invade Raw at the same time

Io Sharai and Damian Priest stare down Charlotte and Randy

The Undisputed Era faces down Retribution. Mustafa is shocked. They should be on the same side, he thinks.

Candice and Johnny fight Rhea and Cedric

There is no sight of Seth Rollins

***

Week 17: Survivor Series - October Week 4 Part 1 (Sunday)

Roman/Sasha vs Charlotte/Randy vs Damian/Io

Karrion Kross and Scarlet Bordeaux try to interfere, but Alexa Bliss and the Fiend prevent them, officially coming back after missing and silent for weeks

Undisputed Era vs Retribution eight-man tag match

Candice/Johnny vs Rhea/Cedric

They discuss their matches and philosophies before the PPV

***

Week 18 - October Week 4 Part 2 (Monday)

With the Fiend and Alexa back, that means trouble for Randy and Charlotte

The Fiend and Alexa are not aligned with Hunter. Corey Graves brings up the handprint the Fiend left on Hunter’s face the last time they met.

A Firefly Funhouse episode happens while the Fiend is in the ring. Wyatt has come back fully split into two pieces of himself: Bray and the Fiend

Randy and Hunter face off again

It suggests a possible alliance, at least as far as defeating Wyatt

Stephanie disagrees with the alliance; Charlotte convinces her.

***

Week 19 - November Week 1

A pre-filmed cinematic match shows off the triple threat tag match

Charlotte/Randy vs Hunter/Stephanie vs Fiend/Alexa

Retribution tries to interfere by helping Charlotte and Randy. Most of them are beat down, though Mustafa fights through enough to stare down the Fiend.

Charlotte/Randy/Mustafa win the match

Wyatt: “The whole Universe is in your hands.”

He backs off

***

Week 20 - November Week 2

The stage crackled and popped with bursts of lighted fire. By the ring, Michael Cole and Corey Graves caught the home viewers on last week’s recent events. The trio of Charlotte Flair, Randy Orton, and Mustafa Ali had triumphed.

“What do you think the Fiend meant,” Corey asked, “when he said that the Universe was in their hands?” He shuddered. “I don’t think it’s in the Fiend’s nature to give up on a potential… I hate to say it, but a potential Funhouse friend?”

Michael Cole winced. “I’m more concerned that the Fiend was able to say something more than ‘let me in.’ I hope it doesn’t mean he’s getting stronger. Either way, it means that the strange alliance of Charlotte, Randy, and Mustafa Ali has proven their point. And it means their path is clear for… whatever next step. What will it be?”

“Whatever they want it to be, I guess.”

In the ring, the said trio was prepared to announce such a plan. Standing at each of the turnbuckles were the members of Retribution and the other champions.

Charlotte stepped forward. Her smile glowed with assurance. “We did everything we set out to do.” Looking at Randy she said, “we defended the WWE Universe against the Fiend and Alexa Bliss.” Looking at Mustafa, she added, “even more, we have freed the Universe from being held back by the dead weight of so-called Legends. From here on out, anyone… absolutely anyone can earn their place in this ring by fighting on their own.” Sinking into herself, she thought of the arguments against them. Against her. “As for those with a legacy behind them. The steps they take to get here, to get to this ring… as long as they use their own skill to build up their own name, they will be welcome competitors here.”

To one side, Mustafa nodded. Charlotte had come a long way. Even further than her NXT days when she first fought against her father’s legacy. To the other side, Randy Orton crossed his arms. His face was a practiced mask. He eyed Mustafa warily.

The stage lit up again. It startled the group in the ring as “Burn it Down” played overhead.

Seth Rollins had returned to Raw.

The group in the ring rushed to the ropes as he was joined by two more people.

To his left, Austin Theory stepped out. To his right, Becky Lynch stepped out.

Charlotte stood a little straighter, seeing her old friend there. At the sight of his constant rival, Randy gripped the ropes so tight, his knuckles ached. Mustafa Ali simply smiled.

The more things changed in wrestling, the more they stayed the same.

***

Masterlist

Forever Tags: @blondekel77 @brianaraydean @chwehansol98 @fireflyfunhousetrash @laochbaineann @ramblingsofabourbondrinker @savmontreal @shieldgirl18 @tinyelfperson @writtingrose @xladyxfatex @gold--gucciempress

WWE Tags: @1dluver13xx @a-home-for-stray-stories @flightofthefantasies @livelifewondering @mother-forker @neversatisfiedgirlfics @racheo91 @roman-reigns-princess @scuzmunkie @secretagentfangirl @wrestlersownmyheart @thirst-n-bullshit @top-1-percent-blog

#dream match #wwe fanfiction #wwe original storyline #Charlotte Flair #Mustafa Ali #randy orton #new formating

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silver--storms · 5 years ago

Text

50 Questions

Thanks for the tag my lovely girls! @satans-helper @shes-outta-sight

1. what is the color of your hairbrush?

Pink, unfortunately they were out of purple. :/

2. a food you never eat?

Uhh...I’m sooo not picky with food, I’ll pretty much eat anything. I guess fish sticks??

3. are you typically too warm or too cold?

I fluctuate rapidly between the two at all times and it’s super annoying.

4. what were you doing 45 minutes ago?

I was at walmart getting cat litter, lol ~exciting~

5. what is your favourite candy bar?

I love Heath bars and York Peppermint Patties.

6. have you ever been to a professional sports event?

Five? Four baseball, one NBA.

7. what is the last thing you said out loud?

“Fuck, idk what to get Shelby.” lol @cantbehandled-ever

8. what is your favourite ice cream?

Birthday cake!!

9. what was the last thing you had to drink?

Unfortunately Pepsi, I really wanted a gingerale but walmart was out and I was dying of thirst. First time I’ve had a pepsi in about ten years lol.

10. do you like your wallet?

I looove my wallet, however I need a bigger purse tbh. I have a GVF wallet that the lovely @shes-outta-sight gifted me for my bday :)

11. what was the last thing you ate?

A ham and cheese sandwhich :)

12. did you buy any new clothes last weekend?

I bought new scrubs, does that count? lol

13. the last sporting event you watched?

Oh god, probably a bears game back in October?

14. what is your favourite flavour of popcorn?

Kettlecorn and actual movie theater popcorn!

15. who is to last person you sent a text message to?

@shes-outta-sight lol about to video chat

16. ever go camping?

Yes! I used to go all the time when I was younger, would love to sometime this summer, it’s been too long.

17. do you take vitamins?

I take a multi-vitamin and I am going to start taking vitamin D as well as Iron supplement, because apparently I’m “dangerously deficient” according to my doc.

18. do you go to church every sunday?

I went to church every sunday, wednesday, thursday and friday for 18yrs of my life, no, i’m good on that.

19. do you have a tan?

I’m so white, I’m practically translucent.

20. do you prefer chinese food or pizza?

Fuck me, those are my two facs... I...Chinese.

21. do you drink your soda with a straw?

Yup! Unless I don’t have on me, then I don’t use one.

22. what colour socks do you usually wear

Black, always lol.

23. do you ever drive above the speed limit?

I try to stay within 5mph over, but sometimes I catch myself with my new car, baby has a fast engine.

24. what terrifies you?

The dark and spiders.

25. look to your left, what do you see?

My kitty Eris is asleep on my lap.

26. what chore do you hate?

Dishes, the worst. Oh laundry too.

27. what do you think of when you hear an Australian accent?

The beach.

28. what’s your favourite soda?

I don’t drink soda, but if I had no other options, I’d choose a sprite or some sort of clear soda.

29. do you go in a fast food place or just hit the drive-thru?

I prefer the drive-thru, the less social interaction, the better!

30. who’s the last person you talked to?

@satans-helper :)

31. favourite cut of beef?

Flank steak or ribeye.

32. last song you listened to?

“Goodnight Chicago” - Rainbow Kitten Surprise :) HIGHLY REC THE BAND

33. last book you read?

I’m still currently reading The Help!

34. favourite day of the week?

Saturday :)

35. can you say the alphabet backwards?

Yes!

36. how do you like your coffee?

Black like my soul

37. favourite pair of shoes?

I’m a total slut for boots, any combat or chelsea boots will do.

38. at what time do you normally go to bed?

If I work, I’m asleep by 11:30/12am, if I am off...2am??

39. at what time do you normally get up?

If I work, 5am, if I’m off, 8:30am.

40. what do you prefer, sunrise or sunsets?

Sunsets

41. how many blankets are on your bed?

42. describe your kitchen plates?

Correle ( think that’s how it’s spelled?) set white, with little red dots all over them.

43. do you have a favourite alcoholic beverage?

Whiskey and Tequila, literally anything with those included, I’m cool.

44. do you play cards?

Yes, I love cards! I love any card or board game tbh

45. what colour is your car?

“Lunar silver” which basically means that if you look at it in the light, it’s iridescent/rainbow shine.

46. can you change a tire?

Yes, but I haven’t in a long time!

47. what is your favourite state/province?

I really liked Wyoming, but Wisconsin is pretty amazing.

48. favourite job you’ve ever had?

My current job! Ophthalmology Technician.

49. how did you get your biggest scar?

I cracked my skull and had to have brain surgery.

50. what did you do today that made someone else happy?

Hmm. I think I made @satingrass-maidensfair feel a little better about recent bs? Maybe????

Tagging:

@mountainofthesunn @1800endmeplease @cantbehandled-ever @karrotkate @michaalien @woman-ina-dream

#personal

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wilstudies · 5 years ago

Text

Get a grade 9 in a language GCSE!

Please note:

1. These tips are almost entirely applicable to any AQA language at GCSE. 2. Modern Foreign Languages at GCSE Level is anywhere from A2 to B1 (dependant on the tier and grade) on the CEFR scale, but, there is no official equivalent.

In November 2018, whilst in Year 10, my teacher saw that I was excelling in French, with my extensive knowledge of tenses and idioms. So, she proposed that I’d do the January mocks, alongside Year 11, despite not knowing more than half of the subject content. Then we’d see where I’d go from there.

I followed the AQA exam board, higher paper. Specification. You can find the Kerboodle textbook I used, here.

Here’s what I did:

Throughout the year, I was also studying the Year 10 content (Theme 1 - Identity and culture) in class.

In my own time, each month I’d cover one or two units, completing the more challenging activities on each page of the textbook. Luckily, each unit was only 4 double-page spreads long.

In January I completed my mocks. This was the first time I had ever sat in an exam hall, so it was really daunting to be doing it with a bunch of kids who were older than me, even though I knew I had enough knowledge. Overall, I got a secure grade 8, in my mocks, despite not knowing half of the course content.

I also did “pre-exam mocks”, two weeks before each exam. These consisted of specimen papers which are notoriously harder, so my results looked almost exactly the same as past papers, which was upsetting as I couldn’t see that I’d actually improved. But practice is practice!

MY ACTUAL GCSE RESULT:

With a lot of work. I managed to achieve a grade 9 (the top mark, higher than an A*), which was insane. I’m so, so proud of myself, and grateful for all of the teachers that supported me!!!

^Edit from 25/08/2019.

LISTENING

In my opinion, listening is based purely on practice and knowing the exam technique that works for you.

To practice:

frenchpod101 intermediate listening comprehension

Going through every specimen track and listening activity I could find - pausing it after each sentence, saying it once in French, then translating it into English. I’d do this in the shower, on the way to school, wherever.

Know your vocab!

My exam technique:

In the 5 minutes reading time: underline keywords and themes in the questions. This time goes very quickly, but I’d also try to jot down a few synonyms in the French section too.

Multiple choice questions: the process of elimination; key vocab; negative and positive tonality and opinion words - watch out for negative structures!

Completing the sentences: note down words said in French or translate each sentence into English in your head, then remember it when it comes to writing it down.

French section: fill each sentence with key French words that you hear. Don’t worry about accents, unless it helps you determine the word.

Remember each track plays twice.

READING

The January Mock: I didn’t know much of the course content, so I struggled with the translation. I also circled and placed a question mark near any words I didn’t know, as it was a mock and my teacher would be able to note down any translations for me. I think what boosted my grade, to a 9 for this paper, was knowledge of grammar.

T/F/NM questions are usually a gamble. Just look for explicit information and know your negative formations.

Texts change their minds often: look out for counter-arguments and opposing exclamations

Use the method of elimination for multiple choice: rule out if there’s no mention. Be wary that a text can mention an option, but say it wasn’t that.

Texts often refer to things mentioned prior.

If you know a certain type of texts are your kryptonite (it was the classical stories with dialogue, for me), then download as many of that genre as you can. Understand the way speech and dialogue works, and the structure, before you tackle the vocab.

Many say skim read and don’t read the whole thing, but I found it easier to translate big chunks in my head as I went along and lightly annotate each text, which just comes with practice.

WRITING

Top tip: don’t go any more than 10% over word limits!!!!!!! Teachers say they have to mark all of it - no they don’t. If you do double the word limit, your last few bullet points could come after the cut-off point, cutting off access to half of the marks!!!

90 WORD - 99 words maximum! About 20-25 words per bullet point.

150 WORD - 165 words maximum! About 75 words per bullet point.

Which brings me to mention, that you must cover every bullet point: those are your content marks, which cover about half the marks of each question.

90 WORD Question (16 marks)

Content - 10 marks: Making sure your writing covers each bullet point enough.

Quality of Language - 6 marks: Using interesting vocabulary, such as “malheureusement”.

Stick to about one page.

If you’re giving an opinion, great, just stop there. If you explain it too much, you risk going over your word limit.

150 WORD Question (32 marks)

Content - 15 marks: Every. Bullet. Point. Detailed.

Range of Language - 12 marks: get in those adjectives, idioms and grammatical structures!

Accuracy - 5 marks: correct basic tense conjugations (present, past, future simple/future proche)

In order to hit all of these I came up with a mnemonic checklist, and it scored me full marks in a specimen paper I did for my teacher! And I made it into a cute phone background, so I’d start to remember it, I still can now, hehe! You can find it here. If that doesn’t work, then download it here.

SPEAKING

Know your question words! (x)

For the roleplay and photocard, my teacher printed off me a load of practice cards in bulk and annotated two or three every day, using the planning techniques mentioned below.

Roleplay - 2 minutes; can be any theme.

When planning, try to avoid writing out answers, but just keywords and gaps for you to fill in with pronouns or articles etc.

Keep it brief, one sentence per bullet point, but cover each part of each bullet point.

Photo card - 3 minutes (aim to speak for at least 2).

Plan with a small spider-diagram of nouns, opinions, anecdotes etc. for each known question.

Use one or two prepped anecdotes for the prepared questions - e.g. where you went last year, who with, what you did.

For the unknown questions, keep it short and sweet and fill up any time with opinions and reasoning.

General conversation - 5-7 minutes.

Lie and make up stories! Be creative and use the words and structures you know.

I was a little extra and I prepared every theme as flashcards. You can’t get away with only revising your chosen theme!

I made flashcards that could cover several types of questions: I had bullet points of topics and keywords on one side and a sample paragraph on the other.

Pretty sure I made about 80 flashcards oops.

I also went through the mark scheme and see which areas I could secure marks in and which areas I needed to improve.

VOCAB

Learning vocab is SO important!

I started by making spreadsheets of jumbled word lists from the specification and doing a colour-coded match up.

You can access a pdf of all of the vocab grids here. There might be the odd word missing due to copy-pasting errors, but if so, don’t stress, just look it up in a dictionary and note it down - sorry in advance!!!

Then with the vocab that I had to look up in a dictionary, I added to a Quizlet and wrestled it into my noggin.

You can find the Quizlet here.

Remember that:

sauf - except

puisque - since

presque - almost

GRAMMAR

To me, learning tenses was like learning formulae for maths. So find a way to learn rules like that, if it’s easier for you.

e.g. Conditional Tense = subject + (future/conditional stem + imperfect ending)*

*note that future stems are the same as conditional stems.

Know your DRMRSPVANDERTRAMP verbs, and their past participles. These verbs go with ÊTRE and always agree with the subject.

Know your auxiliary and irregular verbs.

MUST KNOW: avoir, être, aller, faire, vouloir

HELPFUL: devoir, pouvoir, vivre, boire, voir, dire, savoir

OTHERS: mettre, prendre, venir, écrire, lire, recevoir

I learnt these by making flashcards, and then brain dumping them on paper over and over again until they stuck - my teacher thought I was insane, madly scribbling away.

Memorise some key structures that can be used in writing and speaking.

If you want 7+ structures, find them here.

MISC TIPS

Always write notes about improvements and errors in practice papers and mocks.

Find a native french internet friend.

In my opinion, music, movies and TV shows aren’t great for revision. However, if you begin to understand them, they are a great confidence boost.

I highly recommend the Skam France series, which you can find with and without les sous-titres (subtitles) here.

And here’s my french music playlist on Spotify.

MORE ASSISTANCE

I’m happy to offer my assistance to anybody who needs it, pop me a dm or an ask if you think others will find it useful too.

Here’s some ways I could help:

Finding some resources about a certain topic (videos, worksheets, mindmaps) - I have them all backed up hehe

Sending you some of my past answers

Sending you pdf of my general conversation/irregular verb table flashcards

Marking practice answers

Talking to you in french

Etc. etc.

Thank you for reading! Please reblog to help any others that might find this useful. If any of the links are faulty, please pop me a dm, and I’ll get them sorted asap!! 🥐

-Wil x

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sir-adamus · 5 years ago

Text

its been a while since i talked OCs on here

well in truth i’ve just not been doing much work on them lately, though yesterday i felt like fooling around with one of the concepts i’ve been bandying about for my main heroine, Addison

so as a quick summary, Addison and her friends, thanks to shenanigans, are able to travel between various fictional universes and settings, making friends, hanging out, fighting intra- and extra-universal, but Addison is unique in that unlike most (if not all) inter-universal travelers, she isn’t “locked in” to the rules of her home universe, and so she can adapt to the mechanics of those other universes she travels to and can (but not necessarily will) find herself gaining abilities usually restricted to the people of those realities

so in essence going to the KH-verse she could find herself in possession of a Keyblade, going to the RWBY-verse she would end up with a Semblance, the JJBA-verse a Stand, Persona-verse a Persona, and so on

and i have had this trait for Addison decided for a while but never really thought too deeply on the applications of what she would get, specifically with the unique, soul/personality specific powers, so yesterday i decided to list a few of the stories out and workshop what powers she would get in each universe

i've only ended up solidifying a couple to a point that i’m more or less happy with them so far, specifically her Semblance and her Stand, i’m gonna keep working on others - talking to @xzeihoranth and @tumblingxelian really helped a lot in working things out and i wanna thank them for their feedback and suggestions while i was workshopping these

approaching this i set myself a few rules; a) they couldn't be two overpowered and have reasonable limitations, b) they had to ideally keep with the theme of Addison's extreme adaptability (and therefore her unpredictability) and c) try to avoid overlap between the various abilities - treating them like they are manifestations of different aspects of the soul and not just manifestations of the same power in different universes (because that would be lazy and not as fun)

so first off, her Semblance:

Name: Empathic Mimicry

Aura Colour: Red

Abilities: Addison can temporarily copy and use the Semblances of those in her immediate vicinity, though only one at a time and initially, she doesn’t get much choice which one she’s copying, and she has to keep note of how much Aura she’s using, so it varies as a result, which can be a help and hindrance. She can intuitively use the abilities during this time, but cannot select which power manifests. Later gaining control of her Semblance allows her to select the Semblance nearby that she is copying, but only if she knows what it is beforehand.

Honing the ability later opens up the avenue of mimicking and using a Semblance she has copied before, provided she has a strong emotional connection with the original user and the user has agreed to let her use the ability to forge a permanent bond; she has to figure out how to use these Semblances on her own however. She can switch Semblances, however the switch costs Aura.

so with the Semblance i wanted a variable ability that represents the bonds Addison forms with others. the agreement aspect of its more honed usage, which acts as a limiter to what Semblances she can “recall”, if she doesn’t have that acknowledged connection, she can’t use it, and similarly, she can’t recall the Semblances of those she doesn’t like or get along with, and enemies are right out of consideration

part of the idea behind this ability was that i liked the idea of seeing someone with a wildly different personality having access to things like Blake’s Shadow or Neo’s Overactive Imagination and how they would (or wouldn’t) use those abilities differently

this also comes with a caveat that not all Semblances she can copy are ones she would find much use for - for example, Coco’s Hype Semblance, which works great for her, wouldn’t be very useful for Addison as she primarily just sticks to swordplay and wouldn’t find much use for Dust under normal circumstances

and her Stand:

Name: Changes

Appearance: Takes the form of a young woman. She is tall and has an elegant, muscular build. Her almond-shaped eyes are green – facially she resembles Addison, being an embodiment of her soul. She has azure blue skin. Her bright gold hair is neck length, parts sweep upwards into large “spikes”. She has two pairs of arms, for maximum punching.

She wears a white, sleeveless top with gold lining which exposes her navel. Over this she wears an open, sleeveless black long coat with gold accents and blue swirl designs.

Thigh length white, poofy shorts meet thigh length brown leather boots with a small heel. Brown leather bracers worn on her arms wrap around the hand (exposing fingers and thumbs) and reach up to her elbow.

Profile: In contrast to Addison’s usual upbeat and easy-going personality, Changes belies the hidden emotions she is feeling, often being more outwardly aggressive and brutal in combat than Addison herself would be as a result.

Stand Power: Reactive Adaptation– Develops an ability to counteract another person's power. Can only be used against one opponent at a time. Requires Addison to witness the ability first so her Stand can get an innate understanding of how it works in order to counter it.

Changes does have effective combat utility of her own, mainly using her fists. Her versatility and effectiveness in combat will vary widely, and opposing Stands with abilities that are not pure combat utility are difficult to directly counter as a result (provided Addison can see these abilities in use at all). Many times, Changes can only adapt to match or block these abilities (for example, dealing with a telepath, Changes would create an impenetrable wall of mental static to even the playing field), and defeat lies in Addison using her wits and other strengths to defeat her foes.

Due to being a similar type of Stand as Star Platinum and The World (with an effective range of about 3 meters), as a result of its incredible reaction and adaptation speed, Changes eventually unlocks its own version of The World’s ability. Changes: The World can stop time for five “seconds” maximum, but puts a lot of strain on Addison – she will recover due to her own Healing Factor, but it makes using Changes: The World exhausting through repeated use.

so little fun fact about Changes, i was actually really stuck for a name for this Stand and my fallback name if i couldn’t come up with a decent song to reference was to go full meme and call it All Star

luckily i remembered a different Shrek song to name it after, so that’s cool (plus the song has the line “Turn and face the strange” which is just, massively appropriate for the setting Addison would be finding herself in to acquire her Stand)

Changes’ Reactive Adaptability also massively varies the effectiveness of her ability (and was such a hard thing to figure out how to properly balance) and versatility, because in some situations she could be slowing down time to counter a speedster and thus rob the speedster of what makes them such an effective combatant, and in others would, as i listed as an example, just block a telepath and even the playing field a bit

and “only one counter at a time” also means Addison would have to get creative against multiple opponents, finding a way to deal with all of them while having an ability that specifically counters only one of them, or opponents with multiple abilities that she can only counter one of, and thus having to pick the best one to counter (if she gets a choice at all)

so yeah, that's what i’ve spent the last couple days doing when i haven’t been lazing about and watching anime

#OC tag #OC: Addison #long post

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