#I was thinking a whole lot about him; when I was drawing this; and I concluded he's really great

[lsunstreakerl]

part five of the maxiel corporate au! 2.1k words, Daniel POV. still explicit!

relevant heads up: under negotiated kink (by which I mean not negotiated at all) under/non negotiated everything really, dirtbag daniel

Daniel presses up against Max's prostate again, watches him fall to lovely little pieces under his fingers, panting and crying.

He's toying with him again- gets Max close, but not close enough, withdraws just the tiniest amount. The kid is a wreck- blotchy red patches down his neck, teary splotches on the pillows. Daniel has been drawing it out all day- hasn't stopped thinking about it.

Of course, he had no issues going into his private bathroom at the office and getting off, unlike Max, who's had to be pent up the entire time.

He pats himself on the back for the report idea. Watching Max try and remember what he'd written on a report Daniel knows he didn't really pay attention to had been deeply satisfying.

He presses back down, moves his fingertips in tiny little circles, listening to Max's breathing pick up, the way he's squirming around. He can't decide if he wants more of less- but it's not his decision to make.

He's clenching around Daniel's fingers, legs straining against the cuffs around his ankles, hips jerking wildly as Daniel doesn't let up.

"Danny,"

His voice is high, breathy and whiny.

Daniel pushes in hard, and Max screams, face buried into the pillow as he comes, tight around Daniel's fingers.

Daniel doesn't give him much of a comedown period, or really any- he's sliding his fingers out as he pushes the head of his cock against Max's hole.

He's stretched him, but not quite enough. He's impatient, and it's a good reminder for Max to keep himself comfortably open.

Or maybe the kids a masochist. They'll find out.

Daniel groans as he slides into Max, wet and hot and tight. Max makes a pitiful noise, but his hips are trying to fuck back onto Daniel, so-

Point for Daniel, again. The sweet little intern is a slut.

He wraps his hands around Max's waist, pulls him back all to way to his hips as Max chokes on a gasp, fingers clawing into the sheets.

Max is starting to thrash, overstimulated. If he was telling the truth earlier- and Daniel thinks he was- he's never done this before, never been pushed into one orgasm and then another.

Max is going to remember this forever. Daniel believes a first time should be memorable- so really, he's doing him a favor.

He sets a fast pace, really for his own satisfaction more than Max's, the slick slide of his body around him, the way he keeps tightening.

Max is crying into the pillows, and Daniel hitches his hips higher, pushes him further into the bed as he changes his angle, dead on for where Max's prostate is.

He knows he's found it because Max wails, turns into a vice around his cock, and he keeps going, feels his own orgasm building.

He reaches his hand around, thumbs at the head of Max's neglected cock, and he cries out, knuckles white on the sheets as he comes, and Daniel isn't too far behind- fucks into Max again, and again- comes buried deep inside of him.

He needs to get a test back from Max- the idea of fucking him on the desk, sending him back downstairs with cum dripping out of him- Daniel wants it. The condom is fine for now, but he doesn't want to have to think about it.

Daniel pulls out, admires the way Max is still stretched out, puffy and raw. He brushes his thumb across Max's rim, just to watch him shudder away from him.

"Cute."

Max is sniffling into the pillows, falls limp when Daniel lets go of his hips. Daniel leaves the bed, ties off the condom for the waste bin as he grabs the vibrator.

Max hasn't moved any when Daniel comes back, and he fights the urge to smack his ass again- he'll save that.

Daniel runs a hand down his side. Max is sweating a bit, still breathing in little pants. Daniel hasn't exactly given him a whole lot of reprieve.

He's not about to start either- slides his fingers down Max's stomach, wrapping them around his limp cock, and Max twitches, moaning as Daniel slides his hand up the shaft.

"Danny..."

It's a bit quieter, wrung out.

Daniel uses his other hand to soothe down Max's side.

"You're doing a good job, Maxy. I'm just giving you the rest of what you asked for."

Max shivers, and Daniel wonders if maybe he doesn't need the vibe for the third at all- maybe he just needs this.

"You took that so well for me, didn't you? Even though you're a mess- you're still being good for me, letting me use you."

Max whines softly, but he's not trying to get away from Daniel again.

"It's like you were built for this. Knew it from the moment I saw you standing by the desk- knew you were going to look perfect underneath me, and you do, don't you? So pretty with a cock in your mouth, on your knees. Even prettier here, all spread out for me."

Max likes praise- really likes it, apparently. Daniels admittedly impressed as he realizes Max is getting hard again, letting Daniel use him even though it must hurt.

God, Max is perfect. He needs to find a way to take him on the business trip in a couple weeks- let Max watch everything starry eyed before Daniel fucks him against the hotel window.

He's probably never flown first class or private before- Daniel doesn't mind showing him both.

"You're so sweet for it, aren't you?"

Max moans, hips hitching back closer to Daniel, and he keeps up his strokes- a slowly maddening pace.

It doesn't take very long for Max to be ready again, shifting underneath Daniel. The lines of his back are starting to shine with sweat, and Daniel spares a moment to wonder if Max works out- he's toned, for an office worker.

Daniel leans down close near his ear, presses his thumb into Max's slit as he whimpers.

"You want to come again?"

Max has to turn his head to answer, eyes hazy and unfocused.

"Please- Danny please-"

"Right answer."

Daniel increases the speed, curls his fingers tighter, just on the edge of too painful for Max, but it's what he needs- he starts to tense underneath him, locking together before he comes with a sob.

Daniel strokes him through it, even though Max has barely cum at all, until Max is trembling in his arms.

"Hurts-"

"I bet it does, babe."

He lets go, running a hand along Max's hip. The last one will be the hardest- but he'll give Max what he's owed. Maybe later down the line Max will remember this, might even beg Daniel not to let him come.

He rises to his knees before he's flipping Max over, arranging him on his back. Max's whole body curls towards his hands, like a plant seeking the sun.

Daniel gives in a bit, because he doesn't want to break Max- it's a delicate balance. He runs his hands across Max's chest and sides, works his thumbs in across his shoulders.

Max sighs. His eyes are somewhat looking in Daniel's direction, but he's definitely not with it.

Daniel gives him a few more minutes, gently working him through the comedown before he's reaching off to the side. He gathers Max's wrists in one hand, and then he flicks the vibrator on, and Max immediately starts squirming, eyes going wide.

"Nononono Danny, Danny-"

Daniel shushes him, runs his thumb across the bones of his wrist.

"It's okay, this is the last one. You're almost done."

Max wails when Daniel brings the vibe down, thrashing. It's only the bar between his ankles and Daniel's grip on his wrists that keeps him from wiggling right off the bed, but he tries his best anyways.

Daniel keeps a steady pressure, lets Max climb and climb as he cries, smoothing his thumb over Max's skin.

"Almost there Maxy, just gotta give me one more. You can do it."

Max is already tensing, although the only thing Daniel is getting out of him now are pained moans.

"You're being so good for me, so pretty like this, just need one more from you and then you're done-"

Max cries out, hips jerking as Daniel drags his fourth out of him, and he flicks the vibe off, tosses it to the side as Max weakly twitches his way through the aftershocks.

"God, look at you. Your first time, and you gave me four."

Daniel lightly traces his fingers up Max's abdomen, watches the way Max shivers underneath him.

Daniel has so many ideas- so many things he wants to do. For now though, he needs to actually take care of Max.

He leans back, meaning to uncuff Max's ankles, only for Max to whine, trying to grab at him.

"I'm not going anywhere, I'm just getting your ankles."

Max looks pathetic, teary and red faced, and he's been good, so Daniel indulges him, laces their fingers together on one hand as he unlatches the buckles with the other.

He's careful as he works his fingers down Max's thigh and calf, makes sure he doesn't cramp as he pulls his legs back towards himself.

"I need to get you a washcloth, babe. You gotta let go for that."

Max does not let go.

"That means you have to come with me."

Max doesn't get up either.

Daniel sighs, carefully unhooking their fingers.

"I'll be right back."

It doesn't change anything- Max's eyes are wide and watery when Daniel steps out, and he's crying when Daniel comes back in.

"Danny-"

Daniel sighs, settles cross legged on the bed and half pulls Max into his lap.

"It's alright Maxy, I came back. I'm right here."

Max is clinging to Daniel's thigh, fingers tight in his slacks at Daniel starts running the cloth across his back and shoulders.

He's going to have to send Max with some of his things- it doesn't feel right to make the kid get his work clothes back on.

He'll message Blake as well, tell him to give Max tomorrow off.

Max is practically comatose in his lap by the time Daniel is done wiping him down, fingers still tight in his pants. He looks-

He looks sweet like this. He was sweet before, but in the way that made Daniel want to fuck him. Now he just looks-

Soft.

He doesn't normally let his hookups catch cat-naps on top of him, but he's going to give Max a pass- he'd put him through a lot.

Daniel isn't sure how long they lay there, himself half reclined against the headboard, Max sleeping on top of him.

Eventually Max starts to stir, and Daniel gently taps at his jaw.

"Hey babe. I've got some clothes and a taxi, yeah? I called you out tomorrow, so you can stay home. Get some extra rest."

Max blinks at him, sleepy and confused, but Daniel can see it start to sink in- can practically see the moment Max force starts his working brain, kicking it into gear.

"Yes sir."

Daniel tuts, tapping Max's jaw again.

"Just Danny here."

Max seems confused again, but he nods anyways.

"Yes Danny."

Daniel helps him to his feet. Max is walking better than he expected- but he'll definitely be feeling it tomorrow, when the endorphins are gone. He'd grabbed him sweatpants and a shirt. No boxers, because he thinks Max wearing them is criminal.

"Taxi is outside- it's prepaid, so it'll take you wherever your place is."

Max nods. He still seems a little dazed, but he's recovering quick. Daniel watches him collect his things, and then he walks him to the door.

"Elevator is down to AA, taxi is outside the parking garage."

He pauses. Some part of him feels weird about it, slightly off.

"I'll see you back at work on Thursday, yeah?"

Max nods, not meeting his eyes.

"Thursday, yes. I will be there. Thank you for the rest day, sir."

Daniel doesn't bother correcting him again- they'll work on it. He claps Max on the shoulder before sending him on his way, watches the elevator doors slide shut.

He stays up long enough for the notification that his card has been charged. He doesn't take taxis- hasn't for a long time- so he's not sure how much the average fare is. Not that it matters to him anyways.

He's worn out when he finally hits the sheets. The merger has been complicated, keeps presenting hidden issues they hadn't expected. Bringing Max home had helped- he's feeling less pent up.

Unfortunately, it doesn't matter how good the sex is, when it comes to the merger.

Daniel groans, tossing and turning. He doesn't want to think about work. He'd much rather think about the pretty thing he'd had in his bed- maybe he'll get lucky and have pleasant dreams tonight.

Maybe they'll have a certain intern in them.

[eternitycongregation]

This is real. It annoys me so much; because while I do avidly ship the two of them, I don't project onto Aventurine as strongly as everyone else seems to, and that aspect of shipping appears to me to be the reason why there's such a hard focus on Ratio being Ave's rock (pun unintended) and source of comfort. Ratio fulfills the fantasy of someone gentle-hearted and reliable taking care of you while you're a whole mess and a half—which isn't a bad thing in itself—it just doesn't resonate with me when Ratio's character is flattened *and* the romance feels so one-sided, as Ratio isn't ever shown to *need* Aventurine as much as people depict Aventurine needing him. A romantic partner isn't just someone who exists to meet all your needs; they're a whole other person who has their own needs and struggles and will want your support.

I rarely see people talking, writing, drawing about Ratio's life and Ratio's family (or lack thereof) and Ratio's insecurities. His struggle with the siren call of chasing excellence and building your own sense of worth around academic achievement only to face the reality that you will never be good enough (and thus shattering your sense of self), with being ignored by the gods you know exist in the universe (people suffer irl enough with the idea of being abandoned by gods we aren't sure are out there, what more if they physically exist and you have proof they don't care about you particularly), with having no true peers because you exist in a weird space between social classes. I rarely see people depict Ratio feeling unwanted, because there's a difference between being desired for your looks, for your labor, for what you can provide for others...and being desired for who you actually are. These are running themes in his character introductions and character stories, but they rarely show up in fanworks.

At most people bring up headcanoning Ratio as autistic, but rarely do they actually explore how being autistic affects Ratio. It's more or less just "I find him weird/strange/eccentric" and slapping the label on him without really thinking about it. Autism is more than just intense interests people might find "weird" or a bunch of social quirks...it often comes packaged with a lot of physical, cognitive, and mental disorders and disabilities. I rarely see anyone depict Ratio with his own trauma, speech disorders, intellectual disabilities (this one in particular requires people challenging their biases), or anything else commonly (let alone uncommonly) comorbid with autism. It's almost as if anything that would shatter the image of him being perfect in everything he does (and by extent being the perfect partner to attend to your every need and help you in every struggle)...would make him undesirable. And it just feels weird.

Or some people who know a little bit of this and that recognized the melody of the Seikilos Epitaph in his character trailer...but I see little speculation on who might Ratio be mourning or in remembrance of that this composition is significant to him. Little thoughts out there of Ratio's relationship with death and loss and how a loss in his life affected him and his present outlook.

And most people don't really have a grasp on what a professor even does or what they're like, so I think I've actually never seen anybody talk about what struggles Ratio would have as an educator despite that being his entire thing. I personally think the adage "Those who can, do. Those who can't, teach." that people tell you as a kid to discourage you from wanting to become a teacher would haunt Ratio for a good while as he's struggling to find his place in the universe after failing, since he is the one who can't [become a Genius] and so he now teaches [to give others the chance to excell to great heights].

And so Ratio seems to never really be passionate about anything besides Aventurine in the ship fandom. His career is a backdrop and source of quips and comments rather than a significant part of his life and core personal values. The only way Aventurine is depicted as caring for him is to either physically protect Ratio from harm, shower him with gifts, or pamper him for Stress Relief (without discussing the source of stress beyond vague Work is Hard things)—almost never providing emotional support of his own. Not because Aventurine wouldn't know much of what goes on in Ratio's head at whatever point in the relationship being depicted, but because the artist/writer depicting them doesn't consider Ratio as needing any support or comfort and has no ideas for what that would look like at any point in their relationship. Ratio is there for Aventurine to contemplate the risk of falling in love and having something priceless to lose again; Ratio's suffering is only present to depict Aventurine's survivor's guilt; Ratio living and maybe starting a family with Aventurine is just for Ave to heal, have more reasons to continue living, and a means to pass on his memories to a new generation of Avgin...and Ratio is just the babydaddy.

Not my usual type of post but something that saddens me is the fact that in a shocking amount of ship content Ratio just seems to have no character apart from being Aventurines lover.

I'm not talking about him not being the focus in fics that aren't Ratio-centric, but it seems like he's nothing but Aventurines partner in the type of content I'm talking about.

He doesn't have his own flaws or problems, he's just there to be Aventurines boyfriend, nothing else. He's the comfort in the hurt/comfort but beyond that he's not even really there. It's the same with Genshin and Kavetham, I understand that it's mostly because both Kaveh and Aventurine are more popular in the fan base and there are definitely big problems with how people handle them as well, it's just disappointing to see my favorites constantly overlooked and watered down for the sake of shipping.

[cannibal-walleye]

random question based on the imp and skizz band au because im curious- is the mysterious fourth person ren from when he took over for tango that one ep, technically making him part of the heart foundation?

this might be a wild guess because i dont think ren plays the drums but hey, im jsut asking this based off the fact he could technically be counted as a heart foundation guy

It's not Ren, but I did think of another role for him since you mentioned it! He's gonna be the band's social media manager :D He does most of the posts on things like Insta and whatever else the band uses (haven't thought too deeply about it) and also occasionally just hangs out or jams with them when they're practicing. Outside of that, he's in college for acting, theater, something along those lines, because it's Ren. Obviously.

ALSO! This fic is now also treebark >:) that's right, Martyn and Ren are dating, and Martyn sometimes helps out with recording their performances or records when he has time, but it's more of a side gig than anything, and he only does it when Tango can't. But yeah,, they're boyfriends <3

Anyways, Ren was a good guess, and I'm so glad he's in the au now because I love him, but the secret fourth person was Cleo! Which people guessed pretty much instantly lol. I'm gonna make the promised art of them eventually, as well as give all their juicy backstory (and it actually has a LOT to do with why Imp and Skizz met.. ;) But in the meantime, I kinda hyperfocused on the new artstyle for a couple days and way overextended myself drawing rip, so it'll be a couple days until the Cleo art. That, and I hurt my finger in a cheese grater so it's gonna be a bit slower anyways sads, and on top of those two excuses, I made a whole lineart and then hated it and couldn't figure out what was wrong. so i scrapped it 👍

I think that might've been a bit rambly, but whatever, you're the one who read it so who's the fool now? Ok whatever have a good day, thank you so much for the ask!!!

[gearsandhammers]

HOMECOMING? : JAYCE X VIKTOR X M!READER

synopsis : jayce and viktor are in love. like, a lot. and it’s getting obnoxious, they’ll be messing around as you try to go to sleep. you were crushing on both of them for the longest time, but now they were together, and you couldn’t have either of them. right?

word count : 1.1k

pairing : jayce x viktor x male reader | m/m/m

author's notes : hiya! everyone’s happy in this au and no deaths, so that’s why jinx is powder! yes, everyone is healthy and well, including vander, silco, mylo, calggor, heimer, isha, even felicia, and others! i never really saw it, but in that one au scene claggor looked so in love with mylo 😭in this au, viktor is  healthy! all he’s got is really bad tendonitis, which is why he still uses a cane. also, like i said in my other jayce fic, i don’t speak spanish fluently, so most things in spanish are from google translate. anyways, have a great read and day/night!

Everyone knows Jayce and Viktor are together. How did that happen? No one really knows. Piltover Academy and Zaun University are the two biggest rival schools around. Both you and Viktor are transfer students from Zaun Uni, and you were roomed together, obviously. Somehow, Jayce found a natural pull on Viktor, and before long, they started dating. 

It was kind of tiring, always being the third wheel. You’re Viktor’s best friend, and so you’re always around. But then, suddenly, Jayce was there too. You were studying and Viktor came home? Jayce was right behind him. Did you go to a café to relax and draw with him? Jayce pulls up a third seat. It was sort of infuriating, you felt like you were losing your best friend to some random Piltie. 

To be honest, you had always had a crush on Viktor, but you never acted on it, scared you would lose your best friend. But turns out, you’re already losing him, slowly but surely. At least that’s what you think. And Jayce, oh, Jayce. He looked so good. Viktor had dragged you to a few of his games, against your free will. However, he did (kind of) look good, all sweaty like that. And him in his varsity jacket after games when his clothes would stick to his skin? Gods, you can’t think that. You’re not supposed to think any of this. They’re both taken, you can’t have them, no matter how much you daydream about it. 

With homecoming right around the corner, everyone was asking each other out left and right. Vi had somehow been able to sneak into Caitlyn’s room and surprise her with flowers. Ekko texted you, apparently, Powder had done a whole big show with glitter bombs and everything to ask him out. Mylo, surprisingly, didn’t make a huge deal about asking Claggor out. But apparently, it was kinda cringey according to Powder. Mel had even gotten some expensive chocolates to ask Elora. You didn’t expect anything to happen, and you had originally planned to just stay in that night. However, Jayce and Viktor had other plans. 

You’re lying in bed, the window open to the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. You’re doomscrolling on your phone when you hear the faint sounds of footsteps. You pause the vido you’re watching and sit up. You can hear Viktor and Jayce’s voice follows close behind. You groan, flopping back onto your bed. As the door knob jingles and the door creaks open, they both come in, still talking as you grab your headphones and laptop, deciding to try to get some work done. 

You blast your music through your headphones and don’t notice when Viktor is practically yelling your name to get your attention. You don’t realize even he’s talking to you until he sits down on your bed next to you, and you pull one side of your headphones off.

“Hey, V. Did you need something?” 

“Wow, welcome back to the land of the living, dude.” Jayce laughs, and you roll your eyes at him.

“Yes, eh… Jayce and I have been meaning to talk to you about something.” Viktor says, and you raise an eyebrow at him. “Can you take your headphones off? You pull your headphones off, looing in between him and Jayce, searching their faces for any clue to what it is, but Jayce interrupts your thoughts. 

“You’re in love.” Jayce blurts out, and you almost choke on your own saliva. Your whole face immediately turns bright red, and you try to cover your face, only for Viktor to move your hands out of the way. 

“I- I don’t know what you’re talking about,” you stutter as you shut your laptop. Jayce sits down on your other side, and suddenly you’re trapped. Your whole body feels warm, and your head is swimming. You pull your knees to your chest, wrapping your arms around your legs.

“Yes, you do. We’ve talked to Mel, you know. All that psychology stuff actually works, you know. But even without her, we can tell. You blush any time I touch you, and you don’t even try to hide it with Vik,” Jayce says. 

“So, are you just gonna make fun of me? If you are, you don’t need to, I’m already at war with myself,” you mumble, and Viktor cups your face, making you look at him. His touch is electric, and you feel like you’re going to pass out if he gets any closer. 

“Krásný, look at me. We’re not going to make fun of you. Quite the opposite, really. Jayce and I… we have talked about you.” You look up at him, slightly afraid of what he’s going to say. He rarely ever calls you krásný anymore. What is happening? Jayce takes your laptop off of your lap and replaces it with his hand. Yeah, you’re definitely gonna pass out.

“Cariño, will you go to homecoming with us? Nos encantaría llevarte.” As the words flow from Jayce’s mouth, you swear your heart stops for a second. What? What? WHAT? That is literally the last thing you thought he was going to say. Also, CARIÑO? Oh gods, they’ve won your heart. You’ve heard Jayce speak in Spanish to his mom, but by Janna does it feel different when he speaks to you. When Viktor speaks in Czech, you melt. And now Jayce is talking to you in Spanish? You stare, but at what, you have no idea. Your mind has just gone blank, and you have no idea how to respond.

“Wh- what?” Your voice cracks, and you clear your throat. Your head swivels back and forth between them, and there’s a part of you that fully expects this to be a joke. “Are you joking? I mean, what? Is that… like, something you can do?” 

“Of course it is. Who says we can’t? If we all love each other, then why not?” Viktor explains. It’s then that you realize that you’ve stopped breathing, and you shake your head, releasing your chin from Viktor’s grasp, and take a few deep breaths. 

“Is… is that a no?” Jayce asks, his tone hesitant and… scared? They both search your face for any indicator of refusal. 

“No! I mean, no, I-I’d love to. I’m just… in shock, I guess?” You lift your hands from your legs, your hands shaking. You wring them together, trying to stop them from quivering. “I… I’d love to. I’d love to go to homecoming with you two,” you smile, although your bottom lip trembles ever so slightly.

“Really? Oh my gods, thank you!” Viktor grabs your face, pressing soft kisses around your face. Jayce’s fingers intertwine with yours, and you swear your brain short circuits. 

“It’s going to be the best night of your life, we promise.”

© — @gearsandhammers 2025 - created and written by kaisen - do not steal my work or repost without my permission.

[shroomerr]

Finally, my design for Mysterion!! this boy gave me so much heartache in the process of making this but its ok its all worth it for him <3

I also couldn't choose between the version with hair or without hair, so here's the one without under the cut (+ my initial drafts for his design):

[crab-people-overlord]

Ok, so I reread my last post about Stan's characterization in fanfics, and I realized I focused too much on just the Kyman community. The truth is, some of the most frustrating mischaracterizations actually pop up in Style fics (and I say this as someone who writes Style). These same issues show up in K2 and other ships too, but since Style is literally centered around Stan and Kyle's dynamic, it hits harder here. *Quick Disclaimer:* Again, this isn't calling out ANY specific creators - y'all are talented af and I respect everyone's right to interpret characters their own way. I genuinely love this community. Write whatever floats your boat! I hope to one day be a lot of ya'll, fr. The way I interpret characters isn't gonna be the gospel truth, and anyone can write characters how they want! That's literally what fandom is about. But can we talk about some patterns? Because... (*gestures vaguely at everything*)

The "Smart Kyle/Dumb Stan" Phenomenon

Look, I love a good "Stan is occasionally an idiot" moment as much as anyone (the boy has his moments, let's be real). But there's this weird trend of making him consistently intellectually inferior to Kyle and I'm just like... did we watch the same show for the past two decades??

Also, fun fact (and I fkn hate that I even have to say this): this whole "Jewish character must = intellectual first and foremost" stereotype we keep falling into? Let's maybe... not? Especially since the show gives us a Kyle who's equally good at sports and just as socially competent as Stan. Part of what draws me to this fandom is how multifaceted all these characters are! Because if you actually watch the show? Kyle is smart, sure, but he’s also athletic, socially competent, and rebellious. He’s not just the token brainiac. Characters can be multifaceted!

STAN (Pls I BEG you he's more than just his depression and alcoholism):

Stan often demonstrates critical thinking, seeing beyond surface-level problems to deeper issues. This often expresses in a more critical thinking lens (emphasis on the word 'critical' and 'cynical', as demonstrated so often in the show such as the vote or die episode or when he tries saving kyle that psychic, etc). Stan often sees through bullshit- this is literally critical thinking at it's finest. And while again, you can characterize him as you see fit - I just don't get fics that characterize him as stupid when there's so much evidence to the contrary. While luckliy I don't see these fics as often, Stan characterized primarily as dumb genuinely makes me feel like I'm reading a completely different character as we have literally over two decades of him demonstrating a high critical thinking ability.

His cynicism isn't just him being negative - it's usually him being RIGHT and REALISTIC about shit

NOT easily manipulated (unlike certain best friends we know and love)

He literally leads entire movements when he cares enough

The fact that his depression and emotional sensitivity can sometimes get twisted into him being "less than" is honestly infuriating

KYLE (not just the smart one!!):

Kyle excels at moral reasoning and debate, but can sometimes get caught up in righteous anger. Hes the most consistent at standing up for society's greater good. This is something incredibly admirable, yet at the same time, can at times reduce him to seeing moral issues on an incredibly black and white angle compared to Stan and others in the show, just like Kyle's own mom.

He should be acknowledged for his backbone in standing up for what's right (he's so morally brave), while at the same time acknowledging that at times this causes him to lose some nuance and grey in situations that call for it

He's also known for being the intelectually and grade-wise best of the class. This is partially due to his own parental expectations of doing well in class as well as his own natural ambition and intelligence.

Top of the class but also the most consistently in the show not afraid to throw hands

Complex mix of rule-following and rebellion

Gets manipulated by Cartman more than he'd admit

Both show high ability to analyze complex situations, just through different lenses. Stan through a more critical, nuanced lens, and Kyle through a more consistently yet at times missing nuance lens. Neither are more 'right' than the other, so I hate any 'realistic' claiming fics (i fkn love crack fics lmao) that try to show otherwise.

The Depression Thing (🥺)

Here's what's actually infuriating to me: when works treat Stan's depression and emotional sensitivity as proof he's "less than." Like... my dudes... my buddies and pals... (me reaching out to my Canadian friends fr)... my fellow fans... that's not how depression works??

Stan's depression and cynicism sometimes get misinterpreted as lack of intelligence - something too many folks with depression get misinterpreted as. His coping mechanisms might be unhealthy (looking at you, alcohol), but they don't negate his ability to think critically or problem-solve. Using alcohol to cope isn't a sign of weakness (it's incredibly unhealthy, not saying otherwise)— but it's a sign of someone who's overwhelmed and trying to survive.

Society often equates emotional sensitivity with weakness, especially in men, and I'm so tired of it. Stan's emotional intelligence should complement his analytical abilities, not detract from them. There's a reason he gets called a "hippie" or "pussy," but these traits should be celebrated, especially when they're often mocked in boys.

Tropes I'm Begging Us All to Reconsider, in ALL representations of Stan and Kyle despite the ship:

Making Kyle the "rational caretaker" to Stan's "emotional mess"

Reducing Kyle to just the “smart Jew” stereotype rather than someone who equally breaks rules, etc

Both being smart in completely different chaotic ways

Stan's emotional intelligence as a strength

Their complex friendship that works BECAUSE they're equals

The classic 'sensitivity and addiction' = 'loser' and 'selfish idiot' trope that needs to die in a fire

Some things to remember:

Their friendship demonstrates equal give-and-take. This is canonical. And I would love to see more of a balance of this in fanworks as well.

kyle shouldn't just be the 'smart jew' with no flaws with stan being the 'sensitive' hippie'. they're both equally complex.

both are smart in different chaotic and different ways

Stan’s emotional intelligence being useful, not a flaw.

Kyle's moral compass spinning occasionally (because it does, just like everyone else on the show lmfao)

But seriously, write what you want! this isn't even me saying he can't even be written as an antagonist in a story just like any other SP character. Just maybe consider that Stan’s character is genuinely pretty complex (And Kyle's!). Reducing him to “the dumb/broken one” does him (and those who struggle with similar issues) a disservice. 💙

Understanding Stan Marsh: A Character Analysis and Response to Fandom Mischaracterization (Writing Depression/Addiction Responsibly):

I’m sure a similar analysis exists - but I haven’t found it so I wanted to make it. I’ve seen similar analyses about Wendy with her intelligence/tendency to serve as a villain in things like Style fics and Kenny with his own addiction as well as lower-class designations, which absolutely should exist. But I haven’t seen any about Stan in the same sense despite issues I’ve seen in fandom about his characterization and either blatantly disregarding and misunderstanding what depression is/or/trying to further their specific shipping agenda such as Kyman. And I think it’s finally time we fucking talk about it. This is due to me noticing a prolific increase in the ‘Stan Marsh is an asshole’ tag on AO3.

The Problem of Character Flanderization

Character flanderization (the tendency to focus only on a character's weaknesses) has always existed in fanworks, but the current treatment of Stan Marsh reveals a particularly troubling trend in how mental health and addiction are portrayed. This isn't about calling out specific creators - many (even most) write Stan beautifully, even in ships like Kyman. Rather, this analysis addresses a broader pattern of mischaracterization that does a disservice not only to his character but to real people struggling with similar issues.

Please note this analysis is not directed at any particular creator at all! I see SO many good characterizations of Stan, even in Kyman fics (I’d argue a lot of them do!). But I also see very unfair portrayals of him in some fics which at the end of the day show a complete disregard to addiction/depression and ignore his good traits in favor of furthering their own agenda. I’M NOT OKAY with this, and I think it’s time we talk about this as a fandom. 

 This trend often manifests in two primary ways:

Depression Mischaracterization:

Some of fandom's handling of Stan's depression reveals a profound misunderstanding of clinical depression that goes beyond simple character misinterpretation. The "You're Getting Old/Ass Burgers" arc isn't just about Stan being "negative" or "selfish" - it's one of television's most authentic portrayals of how depression manifests in young people. Stan doesn't CHOOSE to see everything as shit; his brain chemistry literally alters his perception of reality. This isn't character weakness - it's a medical condition that he fights against while still trying to maintain his relationships and sense of self.

What many fanworks miss is that depression often coexists with deep empathy and care for others. In fact, Stan's depression might partly stem from how deeply he feels things - his awareness of environmental destruction, animal cruelty, and societal hypocrisies. He continues to fight for causes he believes in and protect those he loves even while struggling to find meaning in his own life. That's not selfishness - it's remarkable resilience. The show demonstrates this complexity brilliantly: even at his very  lowest points, Stan still:

Tries to maintain his friendship with Kyle despite literally seeing him as shit

Continues to stand up for what he believes in when he realistically thinks it can make an impact

Attempts to understand and help others, even when he can barely help himself

Fights desperately to stay present in a world that has lost its color and meaning

When fanworks reduce Stan's depression to mere selfishness or use it as a convenient plot device to make him the villain, they not only mischaracterize Stan but potentially harm readers struggling with similar issues. They send the message that depression makes someone unworthy of friendship or love - exactly the opposite of what people with depression need to hear.

Alcoholism Mischaracterization:

Stan's relationship with alcohol deserves particular attention because it's portrayed with a nuance rarely seen in either animation or fanworks. The show presents a complex web of factors that contribute to Stan's relationship with alcohol:

First, there's the genetic component - Stan comes from a family with clear predisposition to addiction, particularly through Randy. But crucially, Stan never sought out alcohol on his own. He was introduced to it by adults who should have protected him, making his initial exposure a betrayal of trust rather than a character flaw.

What makes Stan's arc so powerful is how it captures the insidious nature of functional alcoholism. He discovers that alcohol makes an unbearable world bearable - it literally changes how he sees things from "shit" back to normal. STAN HAS NEVER EVER BEEN ABOUT getting drunk for fun; it's always been about self-medication to seem 'normal' to others in response to genuine mental health struggles. The show demonstrates how someone can be both struggling with addiction and highly competent - a reality many fanworks seem unable to grasp.

Even in the "bad timeline" of the Post-Covid episodes, Stan maintains his fundamental characteristics and ability to function. He becomes what's known as a "functional alcoholic" - not because this is healthy, but because it reflects a tragic reality that those who seem most adjusted often hide the deepest struggles. He learns exactly how much alcohol makes him functional versus dysfunctional, developing the kind of careful management that allows many real-life individuals with addiction to hide in plain sight.

When fanworks reduce this complex portrayal to "pathetic or asshole drunk Stan," they miss the point entirely. They ignore:

The environmental factors that led to his alcohol use

The relationship between his depression and self-medication

The reality that addiction often coexists with high functionality

And especially, and something I think a lot of you need to fucking understand - the way addiction can stem from trying to feel normal rather than trying to get high. Stan never ever tries to feel ‘high’ or even drunk. He ALWAYS is just trying to feel fucking NORMAL. 

This oversimplification doesn't just do a disservice to Stan's character - it perpetuates harmful stereotypes about addiction that make it harder for real people to seek help.

Stan's Core Character Traits

Stan consistently demonstrates practical morality alongside emotional depth. His quiet leadership often goes unnoticed - he's frequently the instigator of group plans alongside Cartman, but without the manipulation or need for credit. His relationship with Wendy shows realistic pre-teen awkwardness while maintaining genuine care and respect. These aren't the traits of a "simp" or an "asshole" - they're the complex characteristics of a well-written character dealing with real challenges.

Just rewatch the show for evidence of this - Stan at the same level of Cartman instigates things. And at the same level of Kyle, he tends to do it for the greater good of society. He’s just not as attributed to his actions because he’s naturally more quiet about it than both Kyle and Cartman are. 

TLDR- /Mental Health and Responsiblity in Writing:

The show's handling of Stan's mental health offers a masterclass in nuanced characterization that many fanworks ignore. His depression and struggles with alcohol aren't plot devices - they're part of a larger narrative about growing up in a world that often doesn't make sense. Writing Stan as a "pathetic drunk" or "selfish depressive" isn't just bad characterization - it's potentially harmful to readers who share these struggles

His depression on the actual show is shown as a legitimate struggle, not a character flaw

His relationship with alcohol is portrayed as functional and carefully managed - something maybe some of you would be surprised to learn that some of the most functional folks in your life actually are pretty good at hiding. Stan in his depression arc is ultimately meant to be shown as someone who is a ‘functional’ alcoholic rather than a ‘dysfunctional’ one. That’s not to say it’s healthier to be functional. But it’s ultimately the whole point of that goddamn arc - that even those who seem the most well-adjusted may be hiding a more sinister addiction. So I don’t really see the fucking point of writing Stan as someone who is so alcoholic to the point that it fucks up his entire life. 

The Shipping Problem

The rise of ships like Kyman often comes with an unnecessary cost: the villainization of Stan. This ignores the show's complex web of relationships - Stan's deep friendship with Kyle doesn't need to be erased or twisted to explore other relationships. The best Kyman fics prove this by maintaining Stan's character integrity while exploring new dynamics. Additionally, Stan's relationships with other characters, particularly his often-overlooked friendship with Kenny, deserve more attention and respect in fanworks.

Complex relationships can be written without villainizing other characters like Stan

Good Kyman fics prove you can write the ship while maintaining Stan's character integrity. 

Both Kyle and Stan canonically view each other as super best friends and equals- and this is because they literally ARE equals, even in a moral sense. Neither of them is better than the other. They have a deep connection to each other. Any fic written about either of them HAS to accurately represent this without making Stan to be a primarily weak selfish villain. This is so incredibly unfair to Stan’s character, and a massive representation of him. Same if it’s vice versa for a fic for Stan misrepresenting Kyle (though I’ll be honest - I far more often see Stan as misrepresented in recent works as a selfish asshole over Kyle). 

When writing Stan, consider:

His actions, even negative ones, should stem from established character traits

His struggles with mental health and substance use should be treated with nuance and care. Writing him as an asshole or complete loser (he can be a lil bit of a lovingly designated loser lol) is a slap in the face to those who do function quite well in the real world but with this particular struggle of depression and addiction. Don’t ignore Stan's many strengths, such as adjusting well to things in the moment both physically and intellectually. (He absolutely can be dumb about some things to the extent that it's humorous, but he is not actually dumb - he consistently shows some of the most complex critical thinking in the entire show, even compared to Kyle. And it makes no sense to disregard this aspect of his character.) 

His relationships with other characters should reflect their canonical complexity.

If writing him as antagonistic, ensure it serves character development rather than plot convenience.

Stan deserves better than reductive characterization. His struggles with mental health and addiction make him more relatable, not less worthy of respect. Writers who reduce him to his lowest moments not only do a disservice to a complex character but potentially harm readers who see their own battles reflected in his story. We can and should do better - both for Stan and for each other. He is literally meant to be written as the person most relatable to general society, after all.

[egophiliac]

hiii im sure you’ve answered this before but in regards to your twst x Pokémon, how do you choose which Pokémon go give to the cast?? really curious since your choices are unique :O

unique in a good way, I hope? 😅 (jk jk I haven't come across too many pokemon AUs, so I was going in without preconceptions, I guess!) I was sorta aiming somewhere between doing, like, a full AU with internal consistency and everything, and just picking entirely based on theme/character, so maybe that's why! basically I just set some arbitrary rules (no legendaries/no repeats/evo stages based on year) and then went on ~vibes~. a couple were also suggestions (thank you guys!) and last-minute decisions, so it was a bit of a delightful mess of ideas!

my one regret is that I should have given Riddle a Togedemaru after all. ...you know what, he can have one now, why not

[sysig]

Gift (Patreon)

[turtleblogatlast]

“Haven’t You Noticed (I’m a Star)” from Steven Universe works so ridiculously well for Leo

[tyliocellier]

Tylio's smile grew when she told him he could keep the drawing. Despite his appreciation for art, he didn't own a lot of it. It wasn't even because art was expensive, it mostly had to do with the fact that he lacked decoration skills. He also usually didn't have much of a personal connection to the pieces he saw in museums or on the market.

But this was certainly different. As she offered him the drawing, he could picture in his head quite clearly where he would like to put it on the wall. There was an empty spot in the hallway between the stairs and the kitchen where the sun would land for about two hours a day, like a tiny natural spotlight. Up until now, it had been empty, he simply had nothing to put there until now. It was his own face, sure, but it was not like in the mirror. It was his face, as interpreted by Anna.

"I was afraid to ask but since you're offering, gladly", he chuckled, admiring the piece once more before his full focus shifted back to her. She was stammering a little bit as she explained to him that she did in fact enjoy his company a whole lot. He was relieved, at least he hadn't misinterpreted things too much.

"Oh, me too", he replied immediately, perhaps too fast. "But I guess you already knew that..." He let out a small chuckle, folding his hands together on the table as he tried to think of a better response. "I think...well, to be honest, when I met you it had been a while since I met somebody new. I don't mean just sleeping with someone, I mean hanging out with someone new. I sort of forgot how it goes. But I enjoy your company too, so if you want, we could meet for coffee again. No strings attached."

The way he smiles when she admits to it being a drawing of him has her sort of hiding her face behind her hands, hiding the blush in her cheeks. She'd hate now, after she'd already rejected him before, to admit to him that she had caught feelings in the interim. The truth still stood: she wasn't looking for a relationship right now. Then again, maybe it didn't have to be anything romantic...She could use more friends. At least, that's what her brother kept telling her.

"Thank you," she hums as he expresses his impression of the drawing. She hadn't been sure at the time, if it would turn out, but it had actually come out rather close to the real thing--after about a dozen tries, though she wouldn't let him see that part.

"Oh, um..." Anna bites her lip, flipping open the sketchbook again when he asks to see the picture. She bends the page where she'd drawn him at the perforated seam and neatly tears it out, sliding it gently across the table for him. She would have to redraw it, but...

"You can keep it, actually," she says with an affirmative nod. "I, um...I'm- I'm just glad you like it and...don't think it's..weird, or..." An awkward shrug. She flashes a tight-lipped smile, then huffs out a sigh. "I dunno...Maybe we left things on the wrong foot, before. I- I- I don't want you to think I'm..." She tries to think of a word, her hand waving for a minute before she just lets it fall back to the table.

"I really did enjoy your company. I still do."

[pa-pa-plasma]

hey i feel like we're really sleeping on that time Danny possessed Vlad & framed him for assaulting a minor

Editing with the clip because people don't believe me. Episode is 41: Eye for an Eye.

[shepscapades]

shep I was talking to my brother about dbhc xisuma as one does and mentioned that ask about not being able to puzzle xisuma's face together mentally and my brother joked that the reason you put the spoiler bars and such on his face is cause you cant draw his whole face yet 😂

anyway I might have talked his ear off about dbhc idk tho lmao

LMAOO NOOOO!!! MY SECRET FINALLY IS OUT!!! /silly

[gelatinous-globster]

some recent Globby doodle pages, digital this time! found a new brush I like a lot ✨

@drama-glob @enbydemirainbowbigfoot

[deeva-arud]

Deeva Årud - Club Wear Voice Lines

When Summoned: Lights dimmed, tension building up… Are you ready to feel our rhythm? Summon Line: Playing music with friends is fun, I’m glad to be here even though I’m starting to feel a bit nervous.

Groooovy!!: We’d be delighted to see you at our next show. Spotting a familiar face among the crowd is always nice. Home: “Let’s rock and roll”, as some would say. Home Idle 1: I joined the Pop Music Club on my second year. Perhaps it’s quite a drastic change from my previous club but… it’d be a lie to say I’m not enjoying my time here. Home Idle 2: Most of the time I’m the one suggesting we should practice, but somehow Lilia, Cater and Kalim always distract me with all these unknown snacks and gadgets. Sometimes I have the feeling they do it on purpose… Home Idle 3: I need to warm my hands, it’s hard playing an instrument when they’re cold. Home Idle – Login: *humming Piece of My World* Ah- sorry, I didn’t see you there. Can I help you with something? Home Idle – Groovy: I’ve been playing violin and other instruments since I was a kid. My family has always had a connection with music and I’ll gladly continue this legacy. Conveying your thoughts and feelings through sounds is quite satisfactory. Home Tap 1: My first concert with them? Since it was the first time I’d be playing in front of many people, I knew I’d have a hard time trying to look at the audience. Cater noticed and told me to look at him so I could feel less overwhelmed… Let’s say I didn’t expect him to be so literal. His clones substituted the audience because no one came to see us. Home Tap 2: Hm, my violin? Indeed, it’s not the same one I use at Mostro Lounge. An electric violin is more suitable for the club’s activities. I’m surprised you noticed it. That means someone’s been paying too much attention to the musician playing ambience music… That was a joke. Home Tap 3: Kalim and I joined the club in the same year so I got to see how much he’s improved his drumming technique. It’s impressive. Certainly, Lilia’s been an excellent teacher to him. Home Tap 4: I like the idea of having customized masks for our performances. Maybe I should mention it once we have enough funds. Home Tap 5: I recently accepted to do some vocals just for our club sessions. You can come see us, but please refrain from telling everyone else. At the moment, I only feel comfortable singing for a few people. Home Tap – Groovy: When it comes to a band like this many wouldn’t think of a violinist, but that actually gives songs an interesting feeling, don’t you think? Duo: [DEEVA]: Ready for a shocking performance, Cater? [CATER]: Ready as ever, Dee-chan!

[divorcedfiddleford]

it is friday my dudes (little hearts added by @tazmiilly)

[villtura]

wolfwood