#Linus looks so boring

[randomnameless]

I corrected some descriptions from the latest myh :

Otoh

Nice detail, this Chrom has a shiny wound where he was stabbed back then !

[lottiesgrl]

𝗽𝗼𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗿𝗵𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗼𝗻 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗼𝗻𝘀

cw: canon-typical violence, mentions of stalking, semi-toxic behavior, smut, fingering (r!receiving), face riding (rhiannon receiving), strap-on use (rhiannon receiving), inspired by an ask that i no longer have in my inbox

🗡you'd be lying if you said you hadn't noticed the way rhiannon looked at you when you talked to your mutual coworkers. you were always able to notice it - the nasty looks she shot your way when you spoke with claudia and linus, even if it's over something as mundane as reporting on a missing bike

🗡you're pretty sure she hates you, and you're not sure why. i mean, what could you have done to deserve the way her eyes bore into the back of your head every time you're in a conversation?

🗡so, you vow to try and talk to her, in order to dissuade this "grudge" she has against you. but when you do, it doesn't go at all how you're expecting. the corners of her lips pull into a shy smile every time you approach her desk, her eyes averted and fingers pulling at the hem of her skirt.

🗡around the same time, you start to notice a few things off around the workplace. whenever jeff, that asshole who keeps criticizing your article proposals, says something particularly harsh, he always coincidentally gets caught up on the toilet. you're not sure if it has something to do with the fact that rhiannon is the one handing him his morning coffee each morning with a sickly-sweet smile that you're sure is hiding years of disdain.

🗡and it's not just at your job, either - the sleazy guy on the trolley that always tries to cop a feel each time you pass him hasn't been on since you complained about him to rhiannon, pointedly avoiding eye contact when you notice him on the street as he rushes to take the tube instead. and the woman in your neighborhood who always complains your lawn decorations has been complimenting them more than usual, with a strange expression that you can't quite discern.

🗡if you though rhiannon's jealousy couldn't get any worse than it already can be, you'd be deathly wrong. when the two of you get together, it's like someone flipped a switch, and her jealousy increases tenfold.

🗡it starts out with subtle gestures and touches, innocuous things that you might not have been able to notice if you hadn't already been aware of her possessive tendencies. a hand wrapped around your waist while you're socializing, intertwining your fingers as you walk to work together, and an arm flung over your shoulders when you're at the pub. she always needs to be touching you in some way, and you don't mind one bit.

🗡but as time goes on, she starts to be less subtle. well, at least she thinks she's being subtle. to you, the way she stares daggers into anyone who even remotely flirted with you was anything but inconspicuous.

🗡it's no surprise that she's incredibly insecure, and this is especially true when you're in a relationship with her. to her, the reason she's so possessive is because you're the only person in her life who truly sees her. no one else has cared about her like you, and the thought of someone else stealing you from her is absolutely mortifying.

🗡there have been many instances in which she breaks down to you about her insecurities, and you understand it. in your eyes, she's the most gorgeous girl you've ever seen, and you experience your fair share of jealousy. you run your hands through her hair, something incredibly vulnerable for her that she's allowed you to do, and assure her that you wouldn't want anyone else.

🗡you're more than content to live with rhiannon's possessiveness, even if it means that the men that bother you often end up missing.

nsfw under the cut

🗡when rhiannon gets jealous, more often than not, she gets turned on. really, really turned on. after all, it gives her such a rush to know that people can look at you all they want, but no one will ever be able to have you, to fuck you, like her.

🗡if she notices someone flirting with you while you're out at the bar, she will be dragging you home, desperate to have you all to herself (but not before she approaches the two of you, wrapping her arms around you and kissing your cheek while asking, "babe, who's this?")

🗡sometimes, if the bar is too far or she's feeling especially needy, she'll drag you into the nearest alleyway then and there. you have your reservations, but when she's two fingers deep inside of you whispering that she'll kill anyone who sees the two of you, your inhibitions fly out the window.

🗡whether she's dominant or not depends on the day. some days, she wants to bury her fingers deep inside of you, making you cry out her name until she's wrung multiple orgasms out of you. it gives her such a rush, knowing that you give in so easily and so willingly, all because you're hers. but some days, all she wants is for you to get her off. whether it's guiding your hands to her (absolutely dripping) panties, riding your face, or bouncing on your strap, she needs you to make her cum, and you're more than happy to oblige.

🗡she'll force you to look into her eyes, her grip on your chin tightening and wrenching your face up to look at her if you dare to break eye contact for even a second. "look at me", she growls, bottom lip between her teeth as you bring her closer to the edge. she wants - no, needs - you to see her, because you're the only one who can. you see her.

🗡aftercare with her after jealous sex is always so soft, pressing soft kisses to her forehead as the two of you lie in bed panting. you reassure her that you're hers, forever and always, and you can see the way a smile forms on her face at your words.

🗡you're hers. forever. and she'll always make sure of that.

[lola-theshowgrl]

Book Review: “The House In The Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune

5/5

*

I feel like this book has been on my TBR pile for quite some time now, and I've heard a lot of good things about the author, TJ Klune. I'm not sure why it took me so long to read it, but I really wish I'd picked it up much quicker than I have done. It was one of the softest, most comforting stories I've read in a while now - exactly what I needed, and honestly, the sort of book I've been longing for just lately.

The characters are vibrant and loveable, the setting is interesting and well thought out, and the writing was like sinking into a comfortable armchair after a long day. It was cosy and funny in turns, while dealing with some very real issues in a sensitive and clever manner.

Linus Baker, the main character, is someone you can't help but cheer for. He leads an incredibly lonely and boring life at the beginning of the book, working in a job where he's treated poorly by his superiors and colleagues alike, for a governing body that you can immediately tell isn't the most ethical. He stays, in part, because it's what he knows, but also because he believes the work he's doing is important and helpful. There's no point in the story where as a reader I felt his heart wasn't always in the right place, even if sometimes I wanted to reach through the pages and give him a gentle shake.

The characters around him seem to be able to tell this about him instinctually, even though they have cause to be very wary, and I really appreciated the pace the author developed the trust and friendships between Linus and the other occupants of Marsyas Island, especially the children. The way he grows to care for them, to let down his protective barriers, and the way they all value him in turn really speaks to that place in my heart that will always be in love with the "found family" trope.

The relationship between Linus and Arthur was particularly interesting to me, not only because I love a good romance, but also because of how naturally they seemed to fall together. There were points early on where I thought Arthur somehow knew Linus ahead of time, though that never came to anything, and I loved the way they seemed to genuinely just enjoy each other's company. You don't see that as much in romances, sadly, but I'm a big fan of couples who actually like each other as people, and as soon as Linus and Arthur began to bicker about philosophy, I knew I was going down with this ship.

I've said this in other reviews, but it's easy in queer lit to end up dealing with very heavy subject matter, and I was happy to see no big fuss was made about anyone's sexuality. In fact, I don't believe it was ever brought up negatively at all by any of the characters, or even questioned, come to that. It’s the sort of thing I wish I could have seen more of as a teenager, instead of it always being treated as the most tragic thing in the world to be gay.

That said, there were some heavy themes in the story, but as I mentioned above, all of it was handled very elegantly and with a great deal of care. There is an emphasis on being different from the "norm" and the ensuing persecution and prejudice this brings, but it was written in a way that I think a lot of younger readers would be able to see and understand the point without it ever being heavy-handed. Another point was that the adult characters always protected the children to the best of their abilities, keeping the overall tone of the book fairly safe despite the subject matter, and I think that's something that's incredibly important.

I loved this book. I had a spare audiobook credit, and spent it immediately on the sequel because I just couldn't wait. I'm very excited to get stuck in! If you're looking for cosy, happy, urban fantasy with fairly low stakes, then this is for you.

[gravityglitch-blog]

Another Murder Drones AU

"Uzi the Vampire Slayer"

I haven't seen the Buffy series in forever, and even then, I fixated on the early seasons.

This AU idea kept coming back to mind, so I had to write it out. It's not meant as a direct replica, just its' own thing that borrows elements from both shows. (Also, I apologize in advance if someone else has already done this!)

___

The Absolute Solver, an ancient horror awoken by the reckless greed of JCJensen In Spaaaace, now seeks to control and consume all life in the universe. It has created all sorts of monsters to be its' servants, none more feared than the vampire-like Disassembly Drones.

The Worker Drones only hope of safety is to stay barricaded behind the doors of their colony.

If only someone would slay the monsters, possibly even the Solver itself. But no one would be crazy enough to try that, right?

Uzi as Buffy

The daughter of Khan, maker of the colony's doors, and Nori, Copper Nine's first Slayer.

Nori disappeared one night during a mission, along with her own best friend, Yeva, when Uzi was still in her early teens.

Uzi has been very lonely since then, with her father dedicated almost entirely to colony security. There's only one other person she could possibly call her friend. Most others consider her weird for wanting to get outside and battle the monsters herself. When she finds her mother's journals about life as the Slayer, her resolve only grows stronger. Her personality is much the same as we know it💜

Doll as Willow

However, Doll's personality is very different in this AU.

Because of the close friendship between their families, she and Uzi grew up together, like cousins. Though both girls became more withdrawn and lonely when their moms disappeared, they still look after each other.

Doll's father is still alive here (calling him Adam, for now, because I don't know if he has an official name.) He is kind but very overprotective. She learns that her mother was also hiding a secret: she was trying to harness the Solver's own power to use against it, a practice that can overwhelm anyone who isn't strong enough to wield it.

She has faith in Yeva, and becomes obsessed with the idea that she, and possibly even Nori, are still alive somewhere. When Uzi takes on the mantle of the Slayer, Doll begins studying Solver magic to help in the fight.

Teacher as Giles

(Okay, I could not find a name for him, but did learn that he was voiced by Liam Vickers himself. With this in mind, I'm choosing a name that starts with "L". He is Linus until further notice.)

Though he appears eternally bored, Linus was a good friend to Uzi and Doll's parents. He also wants to rid Copper Nine of monsters, but acknowledges that he's no fighter. Instead, he studies the different creatures, learning all he can about their strengths and weaknesses, to help defeat them.

He's felt like a failure ever since Nori and Yeva disappeared. When their daughters approach him with their findings, wanting to continue the battle, he makes a personal vow not to repeat his mistakes.

He might not always express it, but he really does care about all the kids in his charge.

Even when they make him want to rip off his helmet and any hair that might be underneath it.

Lizzy as Cordelia

Lizzy was content to stay in her popular-girl world, until her own life was threatened by a Disassembly Drone (in this AU, there are many more than our original three) and she was rescued by Uzi. Ignoring the nightmares outside was no longer an option. She found that she had a talent for adventure and monster-fighting. No one was more surprised than she was.

Thad as Xander

Normal guy with a good heart and lifelong dreams of being a hero. He finds it easy to befriend just about anyone, and has a natural courage that drives him to fight for his friends, no matter how scary the situation. He's the most optimistic of the group. Also has a sarcastic sense of humor, which can either lighten the mood or drive their enemies crazy.

And that's Copper Nine's "Scooby gang".

Moving on now.

N as Angel

The only major change I see for N is that he's a little more serious and broody in this AU.

Deep down, he's still his lovable self. Along with J and V (who are more like his sisters here), they were pulled from their old lives on Earth by the Solver and transformed into one of the most feared Disassembly Squadrons on Copper Nine. Though he won't say it in front of them, he dreams of reclaiming his freedom.

When Uzi and her team start to become a real threat to the Solver, it orders N's squadron to destroy them. They clash several times, and despite everything, N finds himself impressed by Uzi’s courage. He soon realizes that she could be the key to destroying the Solver and setting them all free. But to help her would mean betraying his family and risking the anger of an ancient evil.

I honestly couldn't think of good character matches for J and V. Their original personalities still fit pretty well into this AU, I think. Initially they just do their jobs. When they begin to question if they can or should change sides, this creates conflict. V is eventually willing to rebel against the Solver, J is more hesitant.

While J is a fierce fighter, she is terrified of disobeying orders, the consequences that could come from it. She knows she will have to make a choice between life as the Solver's servant, or a chance at freedom.

Nuzi would still happen (because it's my favorite ship and I can't let it go), but it would be a slower burn.

___

And this turned out way longer than I intended.

Thank you so much for reading.

Like I said, this is only a rough idea for an AU, but it wouldn't leave me alone. With Halloween coming up, it might be a good time to re-visit both series again.

[girderednerve]

okay i said that i watch a lot of youtube & sadly this is true. i want to write about youtuber drama

okay the thing i am actually referring to is whatever weird thing is going on with gamers nexus & linus tech tips. the background summary is that linus (of tech tips) is a guy who managed to get pretty big on youtube talking about various computer-y topics, many of them gaming-focused, & parlayed this success into owning a company based in vancouver that employs more than 70 people to make videos & merchandise & so on; steve, of gamers nexus, is a guy who has done pretty well on youtube talking about various computer-y topics, mostly related to gaming, & now has like four employees in north carolina. linus tech tips does videos about a bunch of stuff; he has a boring podcast, & the channel does a bunch of product reviews & bad idea youtube bait videos (we got the biggest tv! kind of stuff), & so on. steve gamersnexus mostly does tech news & product reviews, but they really do well when some company messes up & then he can do outraged coverage about how consumers have been taken advantage of; he would really like to be thought of as a journalist who covers consumers' issues. last year he got mad at linus techtips because of how he handled a review product from a small company & also the warranty on one of the backpacks that linus sells; linus tech tips went into crisis mode last year, made some structural changes & adjusted some things, & apologized (clearly with the assistance of a crisis comms firm, lol). steve gamersnexus doubled down on being mad, then realized he sounded like a jerk & pulled that video, and then all was quiet.

until this year! there's a big stupid scandal going on about honey, a browser extension owned by paypal, that a lot of youtube influencers shilled for; honey is supposed to automatically find discount codes when you're online shopping, but it only looks at discount codes that merchants have shared with it (so not necessarily the best ones, or any at all) & also enters paypal as the affiliate referrer, which means that whatever youtuber affiliate link you might've clicked to buy whatever you're buying, that youtuber gets $0 & paypal gets the commission instead. linus techtips noticed that this was happening years ago & stopped shilling for honey, but didn't generously inform the whole community about it, so now steve gamersnexus is mad at him for that.

i don't care about these details in particular & i mostly find the whole 'creator'/'influencer' economy like, distasteful. everything is marketing now & i guess i read culturejammers stuff at a formative age but i don't like it. the thing i think is interesting is that these two people are in a public fight about what they're doing here on youtube; what are the community rules & expectations? what job are they doing? this is related to what i thought about the long hbomberguy youtube plagiarism callout video, too. is steve gamersnexus doing journalism? what does that entail? if you're a journalist, you're obliged to interact with your sources in a certain way, following a well-established set of ethical guidelines. linus techtips points this out & says that steve gamersnexus didn't operate that way, which appears to be true; steve gamersnexus has a long list of ethical principles on his website, but he's more or less written them from personal conviction (perhaps, less generously, what he thinks will play well), not derived them from j-school curricula. i'm not standing here saying, oh legacy journalism had this all figured out, i don't think that, but there was a generally agreed upon model for how to behave as a journalist. it's interesting to me because i think the 'big youtuber' or 'content creator' or 'influencer' or whatever is a fundamentally different job that leaves you with different audience expectations & personal pressures than working for like, a newspaper, and nobody has actually arrived at a consistent or articulable idea about what ethical behavior there looks like. youtubers copy each other, but then most of them are amateurs; does it matter? journalists shouldn't get into online slapfights, but journalists also usually don't have to shill t-shirts with zingy one-liners they said last week on them.

one major, obvious point here is that gamersnexus does better when there is some kind of thing to be mad about. this isn't unique at all, that's why there's a whole genre of youtube drama that is clearly designed to do well with audiences, because individual videos are monetized. but if you want to be a serious journalist, then you can't operate that way, right? you're not supposed to churn out SEO clickbait, because that's exactly the kind of shit that is easy to produce with an LLM, it contributes very little of value to anyone except advertisers. at the same time, you're running a business, more or less on your online persona, your face. journalists, actors, & so on all rely on professional reputation to have a career to some degree, but that's not the same thing; you don't need people to imagine that the wall street journal is their friend who speaks up for the little guy. so there are competing pressures & we can't decide what the right thing to do is, what exactly our responsibilities to one another are.

all this to say my favorite moment in linus techtips' latest crisis comms monologue is when he calls steve gamersnexus an influencer, because this isn't strictly an insult but is surely meant & received as one, despite being, i think, true. there's just a weird churning cultural problem around what media production should look like & who gets to be taken seriously & how, and i think it's a charged, usually unproductive conversation. relevant also that linus techtips has never claimed to be doing journalism, & has a different, vaguer model of integrity, which involves not lying in product reviews & being transparent about sponsored content. i think this is probably the way the wind blows, but it's easier to pick & choose when you're already doing well, & again this whole approach is pretty loose.

[radioisntdead]

Hello......... It is I......... The enjoyer .......... HARVEY X READER FIC PWEAAAAAASE!!!!! As your best friend I need it or I'm going to lose my mind. THANK YOU BOOKIE

Howdy folks! Introducing the infamous Moony! Say hi, I made em' read a couple of my fics during our sleepover and this is the result, not my best work since this is my first time writing for Stardew valley and I cannot write medical stuff, my apologies for any OOC-ness!

Harvey x reader

Warnings: Harvey gets called wife, reckless mining endeavors, reader gets injured, this was supposed to be angst but fluff prevailed, the reader is very Moony coded.

Song used

You arrived in stardew valley with nothing but a couple of bags filled with your belongings and 500g to your name, no one was sure what to expect from you, especially Harvey.

I have a question

You scared him a little at first when you waltzed on into his clinic, eyes bright, cracking jokes and a frozen tear lodged in your arm, it hadn't even been a full week since you arrived!

It might seem strange

You'd pop into the clinic twice a week after that, just to chat with him and bring him a steaming cup of coffee, or something else you thought he'd like.

How are your lungs?

Sometimes you'd be dragged in by Linus, Marlon or by a friend who ventured into the mines to drag your sorry behind out, injured and woozy, still cracking jokes.

Are they in pain?

You'd offer to buy him a drink or dinner when you'd run into him at the Stardrop saloon, dropping a cheesy pickup line or two.

'Cause mine are aching

Eventually the two of you drew closer, him showing you his plan collection, you freaking him out with Zombie movies or games.

And eventually you purchased a lovely colorful bouquet of flowers from Pierre's and matched right over to the clinic to give them to Harvey, he was ecstatic.

I Think I know why

After that It wasn't uncommon to see him coming out from your farm instead of his clinic, or you waltzing out of said clinic with the confidence only a farmer who's dating the town's only doctor can have.

I kinda like it though

The two of you would have coffee dates, or curl up watching a horror movie that'd scare him or a historical documentary that bore you half to death.

You wanna try?

Not that you minded, you'd scroll on your phone while laid against him since it didn't peak your interest.

Oh, would you be so kind, As to fall in love with me

Who would've thought the Town doctor would've end up with the new farmer?

You see, I'm trying

During the flower dance, he'd dance around with you, admiring how charming you looked in your white dress or blue suit.

I know you know that I like you, but that's not enough

You lit up Harvey's life, gone were the nights he'd be alone eating microwavable meals, instead he was with you, eating something from the saloon, raw vegetables or actually cooked, you nearly burned down the kitchen once.

So if you will, please fall in love

Gone were the days he'd watch historical documentaries alone, you were there with him, with raw vegetables.

I think it's only fair

Harvey did have some concerns about you, with how you had the remarkable ability to end up with bruises or with another crystal imbedded in your arm, that'd he have to take out.

There's gotta be some butterflies somewhere wanna share?

Did not help that he was reminded of your injuries since you put your arm crystals up on a shelf for display.

'Cause I like you but that's not enough

You did get temporarily banned from the mines a couple of times but that didn't stop you, you just switched from the local mines to skull cavern in the desert.

So if you will, Please fall in love with me

Not to mention you were somewhat loose with an axe, sure you hadn't had an incident with them yet but you never know!

He'd hate for you to come into the clinic with an axe in your shoulder or worse!

Let's write a story

He hadn't mentioned it to you but he had nightmares of you coming into the clinic, bloodsoaked, limp and unresponsive.

Be in my book, you've got to join me on my page

You spent a good majority of your time in the mines, so it was a possibility that his nightmares could come true no matter how much you reassured him it wouldn't and that you would be fine.

You practically knew those mines like the back of your hand!

At least take a look

It was a good day, a little rainy but a normal good day nonetheless.

Oh, where are your manners? you need some time?

You waltzed in carrying a thermos of coffee, one singular pickle and a container of espresso cake.

Let's swap chests today,that might help you decide

You called him your wife, dropped off the goods, gave him a smooch on the cheek and then left.

Oh, would you be so kind as to fall in love with me?

He should've asked you to hang around the clinic for a little while, it wasn't like they got patients every single day, and maybe it would've changed the outcome of what transpired that day.

You see, I'm trying, I know you know that I like you

It was the local mines, it wasn't the skull caverns or anything, it was supposed to be a easy day.

You weren't expecting for group of slimes to ambush you at the top of one of the ladders

but that's not enough

You weren't expecting to fall a several levels, a blooming pain spread out throughout your body as you fell onto the cold cave ground.

So if you will, please fall in love

You didn't know how long you were down there.

I think it's only fair

The last thing you could recall was Marlon peaking down and calling out your name.

There's gotta be some butterflies somewhere wanna share?

You were lifted up, put on a stretcher, and taken to the only doctor in town, Harvey.

'Cause I like you but that's not enough

It was like it came straight out of one of his less terrifying nightmares.

So if you will, please fall in love with me

You were limp on the stretcher, thankfully not super bloodied you just had cuts, slight burns and bruises scattered across you, you were semi-conscious but limp nonetheless.

Oh, do me a favour, Can your heart rate rise a little?

You weren't cracking any jokes, no goofy grin, no cheesy pickup lines.

Do me a favour, Can your heart rate rise a little?

You gave a small grin as he ran over to the stretcher.

Do me a favour, Can your heart rate rise a little?

"My wife, Hi!" You sputtered out between labored breathes.

"What happened to you?!" He asked as he rushed over to you.

"You took my breath away." You said with weak finger guns.

Do me a favour

He didn't take your breath away infact, you had a broken rib that was making it hard to breathe.

Along with a sprained arm and other small injuries.

Oh, would you be so kind, as to fall in love with me?

In Harvey's eyes there was so much that could've gone wrong, what if your broken rib had pierced one of your lungs? Or what if you broke your spine or anything else? What if Marlon never went to check up on you? What if he never saw you again? Or what if you died that day? A million unfortunate thoughts flashed through his head.

But thankfully none of them happened.

You see, I'm trying

You were patched up, put on one of the clinic beds and given painkillers to relieve the pain.

I know you know that I like you but that's not enough

And subjected to Harvey scolding you because your injuries could've been so much worse! You got lucky! Not to mention how much he'd be charging you for the medical bill, you don't have health insurance.

So if you will, please fall in love

You were stuck in the clinic, left with a couple of books, sketchbooks and drawing supplies, they kept you entertained for the first few days but you eventually got bored.

I think it's only fair

You yearned to go back into the mines but alas you were still injured and had nearly a month to go before you were healed,

you glanced over at Harvey who was sipping on his tenth cup of coffee that day.

With that you made a decision.

There's gotta be some butterflies somewhere wanna share?

"Hey Harvey? Can you do me a favor?"

"Of course, what is it?" He asked looking in your direction,

"Can you hand me my bag I just remembered something."

"Of course Hun."

Harvey got up and fetched you your bag, handing it to you with a smile.

'Cause I like you but that's not enough

"Thank you! also I have a question," you said as you dug into your bag feeling around for the object you were planning on giving to the object of all your romantic affections.

So if you will, please fall in love

"Of course, what is it?" He asked as a grin spread throughout your face, you held the mermaid pendant in the cup of your hands.

Oh I like you but that's not enough

"Marry me?"

You were causally proposing to Harvey in his clinic while recovering on a hospital bed, truly the most romantic setting.

"I accept! I'll set everything up, We'll have the ceremony once you've fully recovered okay?'' Harvey said with the sweetest smile one could have, he adored you and he couldn't wait to marry you.

Unfortunately for you though, marriage would not stop him from charging you medical bills related to your cave related injuries.

So if you will, please fall in love with me.

Good evening folks! I hope you enjoyed, with this I will be slowly pushing out more Stardew valley content along with my normal hazbin stuff!

As always thank you for tuning in, I hope you have a wonderful rest of your evening!

[fizzyangel]

crochet for littles 💚

do you crochet? well so do i! and i have a really hard time focusing when i regress and wanna crochet and i feel overwhelmed by all my big projects

lemme introduce to you! mini skeins and scrap yarn!

all my big skeins feel super overwhelming and i feel like i have to do a big project when i just wanna be in my own world watching my little pony or paw patrol. or gravity falls. so i have small and instantly gratifying patterns for you! instantly gratifying meaning that the end result is pretty quick but if you wanna make sweaters/blankets/etc, well, that may take a while but in this post im focusing on just the components for that and other mini skeins ideas

«1» classic granny squares

i know, i know, boring and unoriginal. but i made a granny square bad recently and you can just do a few rounds(i like doing 3-4 when im small) and you can make so many! now angel, you may be asking, what would i do with a kajillion small granny squares? you can put them together for scarves, blankets, sweaters, bags, anything! if you don't want a blanket then there's a great nonprofit called project linus that gives handmade blankets to traumatized children that need extra love and care 💚

«2» solid granny squares

same reasons and ideas as above! if you don't like the look of a classic but still like granny squares, I got you

«3» 15x15 single crochet squares

for the little ones who don't like granny squares but like the vibe of a patchwork project. or just for funsies. i like making a lot of coasters like these

«4» pencil pouch

woo! one that's super functional! the one i made was a pattern by mahum(i think it was called a pouch. the thumbnail has a strawberry checker pouch). it holds all my crochet hooks and it worked up fairly quickly

that's all i can think of right now! thanks for reading! also, feel free to send asks or dms and chat! i like talking 💚

dividers by @kodaswrld

[reallyhardy]

ok so tob and i watched all of LOST together and finished last week, for me the first time, for him the first time since it aired (he was a child)

we were both absolutely obsessed with desmond hume, truly the character of all time. NO interest at all in his assigned love interest (there was no hope for her, i'm never gonna be invested in Love Interest For Love Interest's Sake type characters) but truly truly all in for des. love the accent, loved the specific castaway look with the full beard, open blue shirt and long hair with sun highlights, truly every other look was a disppointment after peaking so early, everytime he was on screen sans beard me and tob were like GROW IT BACK

also obsessed with the jesus-to-jesus communication in every scene with desmond & faraday too... (turns out both cusick and jeremy davies have played jesus) also was absolutely pissing myself in the last season fantasy fanfic universe when desmond ran over john locke with his car... hysterical truly

rest of the series fine. love hurley, (LOVE LOVE ABSOLUTELY LOVE HURLEY!!!!) charlie, sun, jin, desmond, mr eko, sayid, rose, bernard and vincent forever. incredible waste of having harold perrineau around. truly felt nothing for the white leads, (sawyer lowkey hot but jack/juliet/kate etc soooo bored by) but also obsessed with the bloke playing benjamin linus, stole the show and served cunt every scene, obsessed with how often that actor had to be in 'beat to a bloody pulp' makeup.

also vincent best doggy... got me absolutely sobbing in the final episode truly truly i turned to tob i said "are you crying too" he said "THE DOG GOT ME 😭"

[sunny-mercya]

Casino Blues

02. Royal Flush

Rusty Ryan x Male Reader | Platonic! Danny Ocean x Brother Reader

Fandom -> Ocean's Trilogy

Masterlist | Previous / Next |

The Royal Casablanca was not just a mere simple Casino—which thankfully isn't located in meek old boring Viva Las Vegas, wouldn't have fit the aesthetics—but it's The Casino of all Casinos—located on a ship, the ship itself being the establishment—for the high society of the world's wealthiest people.

Royal Casablanca, nicknamed Royal Bianca for short sayings, is a highlight for every Gambler—and auctioneers, who love to present their antiques—from past decades all the way to jewels of the modern era—you name it, they bring it, you pay and if you can't pay, well in simple terms; your life is not worth of living anymore—an thrill of excitement and ecstasy like experience.

So when Danny had knocked on your hotelroom—in the early hours of lunch, after yesterday's failed attempt of a heist to pay Mister Benedict back and you're still pissed at Danny and Rusty for that, because now you're on his hit-list too—greeting you joyfully, with a tight hug and ruffling your hair, stepping inside—amused at your husband, who eats a stack of pancakes, like the glutton he is—you were surprised when Danny said, he wanted to gather the team for another heist.

You're even more surprised, interest highly piqued though, when Danny mentioned the Royal Casablanca.

The guys, besides Reuben, looked only mildly confused—save for Linus, he had yet again no clue what's going on—with the mention of the name and you couldn't help yourself but to chortle out laugh.

»Could someone please explain what joke I missed?«

»Oh Linus, bless you, but Danny and Rus really needs to teach you some basics of the Casino and Gambling world« you said, getting up from the couch and standing next your brother now.

Linus didn't mention it, holding his tongue, how—in a way—unsettling it was for him—how fast you had changed personality by the mention of a mere Casino. Had you gone from bystander husband—who knows about the little hobby of illegally, like Tess—to professional informant within seconds.

And informations about Royal Casablanca you had.

»Gentleman's, when Monaco the Royal Palace of gambling is, than is Royal Casablanca the Crown itself,« you begun, starting—full in your element—to explain why this Casino is such a grand event of highlight.

From Europe, to Africa and all the way to Arabian and Asian east, the Casino would anchor at a specific location of country and stay there for maximum three nights, before it sail's away towards the next destination.

Since they have their own special bank inside the ship, the security is high but not high enough; which means, if played right, you can—in a metaphorical sense—rob it without being caught.

»Wait, how's that even possible?«

»Royal Bianca belongs technically to Monaco, in any of these three nights they make enough money—explosive enough—that if you might win a longer round of games in there and getting one of the grand jackpots and leave, it wouldn't hurt them.«

»So, hypothetically speaking, if one of use wins—although this time, truthfully without any tricks—let's say, 500.000.000 Billions, it's legally ours.« adds Danny and the others shrieked in shock.

»How's such a sum, in legal terms ours? What the hell is Royal Casablanca?! The devils home?«

»Nah, it's not the Devil's home, I would know—was there for years, although people say, it's also located in Ohio and somewhere else—but anyways. No, the reason why is; if you win, doesn't matter what sum, it's all yours. A wins a win, those are one of the few rules in there.«

»And who of us will be the lucky guy?«

»That's gonna be [Name].«

»That's right. It's me, who's not only an expert, but also the best of the best when it comes to Royal Bianca.« you boasted gleefully, fully proud and overflowing with confidence.

Royal Casablanca was your realm.

~~~

Danny, Rusty and you were in one of the many empty—to such an hour—lounges of the hotel, you're staying in for tonight and tomorrow.

From Amsterdam to Monaco was just a day trip away and since Danny and Rusty had to do a short visit in France anyways, their planned casino heist—in one of Europe's most prestigious establishments—was just the start of something great.

»You wanna tell me the real reason, how you lost thirty millions of thirty-five? It can't be just the hotel thingy of yours«

You poured yourself another cup of coffee, but stopped midway from drinking it, when Danny had asked Rusty that question.

All you wanted was to discuss the plan once more, taking a short nap afterwards and then getting ready for your performance—but not to talk about this theme again or having to break up one of their heavier arguments.

»Well, it was just twenty for my hotel, the rest ten millions had to be paid for [Name]«

The way Rusty had said it, sounded as if it was something he never wanted to actually do, but had to—as if being forced.

»Well, you never had to in the first place.« you replied back angrily, glaring at your husband, clenching your hands into fits.

»Why so snappy now? You weren't even part of it the last time, so you have nothing to worry about Benedict.«

You inhaled sharply, standing up from your seat. Even more furious now.

»Excuse me? I might be not part of it last time, but I am now and you wanna know why? Because your Mister Benedict came to me, to our house—where I, we, should be safe—and threatens me, that if I don't repay the money—I apparently have stolen too—to him, he's gonna bring me back to him.«

You weren't having any of this. Not with such blatant heinous disrespect towards you, after you were finally being free from that hells place—finally feeling safe enough. So you thought at least.

»Hey, hey, [Nickname] how about we grab a bottle of Cola and go outside for some fresh air?« Danny took your hand, taking a bottle of Cola from the table and was on his way outside to the small hotel garden outside.

Danny gave Rusty a pointed look, who only looks remotely guilty at the moment.

~~~

»So, whose [Name] exactly?« asked Linus, fumbling with his Bowtie. It's a question which burned on his tongue, ever since he saw what a kind of enigma source of information you are—when it comes to Monaco and Royal Casablanca.

»My Husband.« replied Rusty, looking just a tiny bit anxious and impatiently towards the bathroom, where you went in to get ready dressed.

»Yeah, I already knew that, but I meant like, personality wise? What's his job? Is he like us? Yeah know, all that stuff«

»Do you wanna tell them or should I?«

Rusty inhaled deeply, annoyance rising and patience running thin. He knew Danny's still just a tad angry at him, for upsetting you hours ago—Rusty himself feels the guilt coming up, ruining his appetite—but really, in all honesty, why do they—especially Linus—want to know information about you?

Were your personal information useful or necessary in the current situation? No.

Do they ask out of pure curiosity? Perhaps.

»[Name]'s my husband, he used to work in a rather expensive and fancy establishment of brothel business and is a merciless gambler when it comes to any sort of Casino games—so fair warning, never play against him.«

»Wait, wait, hold on! So, [Name]'s a Who–«

»Linus, we like you and so does [Name], but if you dare to finish that word or ever say it again—around us or him—I will punch you so hard, till your bones crack.«

Rusty wouldn't let anyone, be it stranger, family or friends, say such disrespectful and shameful term about you.

Words could hurt just as much, but when carved into your skin—they're a constant reminder for the someone's mind.

Linus had gone quiet instantly, when Rusty gave him one of the those stern looks.

»Ignore him, Linus. It's still a sensitive topic.« added Danny.

»Alrighty, Gentlemans! I'm ready.«

When you stepped out of the Bathroom, dressed in a mix between causal suit and old money look—heeled boots, which makes you appear taller—and the few added jewelleries, a clutch-purse and sunglasses—was such a look of pure professional, that Linus had to hold in a whistle. Rusty or Danny would've whacked him upside the head.

But damn, Linus thought, you know how to get dressed fancy.

[zubat-kid]

a little rant about linus' design buckle up

the thing that I love about him the most is his hair color!! I dunno its just so unique, this kind of ash blue, especially with the accurate colors from jp dub

his haircut might look boring but I make it work, he always just looks super neat compared to dan with his wild bangs in every direction. and it actually has a shape. it just makes him so much easier to draw, I always struggle with shun for example cuz there's too much strands and not enough shape and it takes me a few tries to make it show-accurate

and back to him being simple, yeah he's plain but to me its such a blessing when I just want to draw something quick and easy linus is the first that comes to mind, I dont have to go search for a bunch of screenshots with him cuz he doesnt have a lot of details. I mean yeah I love spectra almost as much as gus but he's a pain to draw even if you take off his coat, so I don't do it often. and linus has none of that!!! he's just simple and comforting and I don't have to wreck my brain with thoughts about how this particular accessory will look from this particular angle.

I love love his puffy sleeves even if they don't look like much in the show but I make them better. he has so much potential for a very nice silhouette, his canon design just needs a bit more polish

those red things that go around his shoulders and armpits are also super unique!!!! I'm not sure how much logical sense it has but I dont care, it's just this crispy detail that makes you instantly go "yeah that's linus"

his color pallete is pleasant, again, especially in the jp dub. I'd change his undershirt though, that yellow just doesn't work there for me

the eyelashes oh my god the eyelashes i adore them. but they're nice on every gundalian and neathian. I love this thing where every humanoid species in bakugan have these little features with which you can tell them apart from each other, its such a neat world building detail, like, they're all human-looking but there still would be noticeable differences between them. he always appeared very majestic to me, the lashes just make it even better. and he got the gundalian pointy ears too!! rafe and fabia were robbed

I dunno why for such a background character he came out to be so nice to look at and memorable, like, he's legit leagues better than rafe or whatever shit shun has going on in s4 arc2

[arianaofimladris]

Alright, I read The Crossroads of Ravens (or whatever the official title is going to be in English)

The review is without spoilers regarding the plot, just my general impressions, so don't worry.

In short words. It's shit.

I was mildly optimistic when I learned the book was going to be about young Geralt. And young Geralt we get indeed, but he's so bleak and, hmm, plain. It's hard to read more into him. Or I can figure out what I'm probsvly meant to see, but I don't really feel it.

Funny, I should be glad that it is mostly Geralt's POV (with one exception of Sapkowski doing his typical stuff when he needs to push the plot forward from one scene to another, which is presenting the events either in a random conversation or in a letter exchange). But I hardly felt like I was reading about Geralt.

The first 40 pages or so was a styllistic nightmare, with sentences often short and clumsy, with repetitions that seemed unnecessary and (in Polish) awfully jarring. After that it either got a bit better, or I resigned myself to this standard and stopped paying this much attention. I also had this ridiculous thought like I was reading some equivalent of a game tutorial, the kind where the game teaches you fighting mechanism under a cover of training.

I admit, I looked at the plot and plot ideas like I would look at a fanfic. Would I buy this or that in a random story online, or would I cringe and roll my eyes? Sadly, it was the latter most of the time.

There were bits where I can see a lot of wasted potential. Putting a very young Geralt in situations similar or parallel to the ones we know from the saga could be interesting. To show his youth, maybe his naivety, his lack of experience... And this book tries that a few times, but I don't think it delivers. There is not enough build-up to get me invested, and especially when such situation is a parallel to one of the short stories (and Witcher at its best), I just see how pale this one looks in comparison. The best attempt of such parallel was a confrontation thst takes literally 2,5 pages of the book.

How can I get invested when the whole situation is like a 1,5-2k long one-shot fanfic "Geralt gets to fight monster X"?

Side characters and dialogues is another matter that is a huge downgrade. Most of the side characters from the saga, even if they appear just for a scene or two, are distonguishable. Like the dwarf Dennis Cranmer from Voice of Reason. Or Linus Pitt and the discussion on the boat. In this book after finishing it an hour ago I can point one character (besides Geralt and Nenneke) that had some sort of character arc, but he was also, say, main side character. Aside from him, I can say there was this agent, that old lady, that guy from authority... Or there was a caricature of a wizard from saga. No way I can recall any name from my memory.

It was sad when I read half a page and suddenly thought "oh, that actually feels like Geralt, like Witcher". I wonder if it was some older, recycled note.

All in all, those 280 pages did not manage to get me emotionally invested, even when Geralt went to do things that were questionable or stupid or in any way this kind of things that should make me feel. There was one positive note at the very end, but it didn't feel earned and I was just flipping through the last 20 pages just to finish reading.

It's definitely worse than Season of Storms. I remember reading that book ten years ago and then not touching it for the next eight years. When I reread it about two years ago, I was mildly entertained (also because of excellent Polish audiobook) and I got the impression that Sapkowski played a bit and had a bit of fun when it was just Geralt fooling around, with no great stakes looming over him.

In case of Crossroads of Ravens, it was just boring.

[luverofralts]

Arkhelios Adventures

"Dad? Dad, are you home?"

Luke Lane turned to the next page in the paper as he heard his front door knob turn, and his child, Lukas burst through the door. The news was dull as of late, but Luke had his schedule to keep. Each day, he would read the paper, have a cup of coffee, and then meditate until his partner, Alex, came home. Some people thought he was dull and exceedingly boring, especially with the life he'd lived, but Luke cherished the serenity in his life and the peace that came with his schedule. It was always nice when his children dropped by to see him either way, especially Lukas. Lukas' visits had become rarer now that they were raising living teenagers and actually doing their job as required. It was hard to schedule visits when his child was a deity, charged with protecting the living realm.

"Dad! Dad, something crazy is happening! I'm stuck in my second incarnation, and something bad is happening to Izanami, and there's these ghosts that-"

Luke nodded, while still flipping through the paper. Lukas was a lot like their father, Linus, and over the years, Luke had learned to tune out Linus' paranoid, excitable ramblings. The less attention he gave his ex-husband, the more Linus would calm down and be reasonable. As much as he would have loved to raise Lukas from birth, that hadn't been an option, given that Lukas had been created as a fully formed adult deity from a fetus that Linus had never told him about. It was remarkable how similar Lukas and Linus were, despite neither him or Linus knowing that they had a deity child until their deaths. Luke had loved Lukas from the moment they met, and had loved seeing the same brightness in them that shone in Linus, but the Reeves side of the family was often difficult to manage, and Izanami would often trade knowing looks with Luke when chaos developed at the dinner table or the living room, or just about anywhere else in the afterlife. It was fairly common for Lukas to burst into his home, usually accompanied with their half-brother Reese, only to run out again with a bottle of wine from Luke's wine rack and a jumbled goodbye. Lukas was the perfect embodiment of Life: eager, hopeful, and more than a little bit wild and their father loved them for it. Luke had hoped that Lukas would have outgrown the amount of petty theft attributed to them over the centuries, but after nearly losing Lukas like they lost Riley, there was nothing that couldn't be forgiven. Having the twins and finally marrying Izanami after literal millennia of pining had calmed Lukas somewhat, but there was always the unpredictability of Life gleaming in their eye.

"So Reese is going to go look for Adam Darktide for me since it's so hard to find anyone in this damn place and it should be nothing for a reaper to track him down. I've never really dealt with ghosts before, have you? Most of the time, the reapers take care of them before I even know that they're there. Do you really think that the dead could be returning in earnest to the living world? Have you ever seen anything like this before?"

"Hard to say, kiddo. Lots of dead things can infiltrate the living world. Just look at vampires or zombies or even ghosts."

Lukas stopped speaking to glower at their father.

"Dad, you're not even paying attention. I've been talking about ghosts here," they complained. "Tell me one thing I've said since I got here. God, you do this all the time. What's so important that you can only find in a newspaper? Just use your phone, the reapers have a constant news stream about afterlife events that's been around for centuries now. You're living in the past."

"The past is a good place to live," Luke replied casually. "How else would I keep up with your exploits without the newspaper? You seem to be in this a lot these days."

Lukas frowned, but it came across as a pout. Any time they got tired of teens staring at them like they belonged in a museum, all they needed to do was talk to their father and they would instantly feel about twelve years old.

"I'm kind of a god, Dad. People are interested in what I do with my god husband in the realms they live in. I'm kind of a big deal, it's only natural that they write about me."

"And the repeated theft of expensive royal jewelry? That's part of being a deity too?"

"Well, no, but-"

"Sit down and have a coffee with me, kid. We'll talk about what's happening in your life, and you could maybe even ask about mine. It's been too long since you last stopped by."

'Did you want a coffee too? I have the hazelnut blend you liked at Winterfest."

Lukas paused to consider this option.

"No, I don't have time, I think. I'm supposed to meet Izanami at home when he's done talking to Anakin and there's no way those two can make conversation long enough for me to finish a coffee."

Luke poured himself a cup of coffee, but left enough in the pot just in case his child changed their mind.

"How is Izanami? You two are doing okay together?"

Lukas scoffed at the idea that they and Izanami could be anything but perfect for each other. Sure they'd been stupid when they were younger and it took the two of them far too long to find each other again, but going forward, Izanami wouldn't be anywhere but beside Lukas.

"Yeah, I'm not going to burn down the afterlife because he lied to me again, if that's what you're asking," Lukas replied sharply. "We're made for each other. Our love is destined to last for eternity."

Luke took a slow slip of his coffee, giving Lukas a wary look.

"I had a destined love too, you know," he reminded his child. "Your father and I were destined to love each other so that you could be created; you've told me that yourself. I loved that man with every fiber of my being, but relationships take work and patience to maintain, even if they are destined. I don't want you to follow in my footsteps and lose Izanami the way I lost your father. I can see how happy he makes you."

"Dad! Izanami is nothing like Linus! He's kind and sensitive and he'd do anything within his power to make me happy. He would never tell our children that they're abominations that he couldn't even stand to look at. You don't have to worry about him being like Linus. He's a good husband now that he's learned to be more honest about his feelings and what he needs from me. I can't even imagine a better husband than him. He's everything to me."

Luke smiled earnestly. It was a joy to see Lukas so smitten with their husband. They'd spent many unhappy centuries without a genuine love for their partners and it filled Luke's heart with happiness to see his child content and at peace with their life.

"I'm glad to hear that. Were you saying earlier that something was wrong with him?"

Lukas filled their father in on the last few months of insanity, taking care to avoid how miserable they were with being stuck in their second incarnation partly due to the resemblance to him.

"That sounds like quite the predicament," Luke said at last. "Death being ill, you unable to shift incarnations, and ghosts all at once? That's a lot to deal with."

"Does any of it make sense to you?" Lukas asked hopefully. "Do you know how ghosts are escaping the afterlife? Have you heard anything about demonic plans in this realm?"

"No, I stay out of all that nonsense," Luke replied, avoiding direct eye contact with Lukas. "I know what you must think of me because of the past, but Alex and I lead a quiet existence. I've given up on ever recovering your sister, and since Linus disappeared, ninety percent of my problems have disappeared with him. The only thing I can think of regarding you and Izanami is that the Ocean is up to something. Only he would have that power. As Alex has explained to me with complicated research papers, only he has the ability to control deities and demigods. You answer only to him, so it makes sense that he's behind all this."

Lukas stared at the kitchen counter for what felt like an eternity, gathering the courage to ask their next question. It was something they needed to ask, but wasn't sure if they wanted to know.

"Dad? Do you think I'm stuck like this for another reason? Maybe demons again...or someone as powerful as my son? They weren't the Ocean, but they were able to hurt me before and...and I can't lose Izanami or our kids, or even worse, have to leave them when they need me the most. I think I'm stronger now, and I've learned so much in the past few decades about what I can do, but I-I'm afraid."

Luke's heart broke seeing his child suffer in any way. He knew that kid better than Lukas ever thought he did and he could see the panic and desperation in their eyes. He placed his coffee mug on the counter for a moment, staring kindly at his child.

"Lukas, I know you're terrified about losing control over your existence again, but I promise you, nothing like that will happen again. I know you're strong enough now to survive this test, and if you somehow aren't able to on your own, I'll be at your side in a heartbeat. I know this incarnation brings you pain, and truthfully, it does the same for me. I don't know if you're able to remember anything from that day, but I was the one who found you when your son...rendered you comatose. I found you in a pool of your own blood, lying on the floor of your office and I wanted to die myself. After losing you the first time, and then Riley, I wanted nothing more than to die with my children before I had to suffer for eternity without them. You looked so much like me that incarnation, staring at your broken, comatose body was like staring in a mirror back when I was alive during the war. You were my mirror image in a way I'd never wanted you to be. I wanted you to be happy and safe, not trapped in a perpetual cycle of violence and danger. It's okay to be uncomfortable with being forced into reliving your second incarnation and you need to give yourself permission to feel that way. A lot of very bad things happened to you during that part of your life. It's okay to have complicated feelings about being forced to confront the past."

Luke picked up his mug again quickly, before Lukas could respond to his heartfelt statement. He was a Lane after all. His own mother hadn't been emotionally honest with him in centuries, and his twin brother had been a lost cause even when they were alive.

"Thanks, Dad," Lukas murmured quietly, equally uncomfortable about expressing familial feelings.

"Luke? I'm home. Destiny and I have been working on a paper on the theoretical exchange of energy when a soul is reaped by a reaper and the implications of that on field work. It's probably going to take us more than a week just to study our volunteer reapers, so I'll be home late tomorrow and probably the day after."

Luke's partner, Alex Alocasia appeared in the door, waving cheerfully as he entered the house. Both Luke and Lukas looked up excitedly, glad to have a distraction from their talk.

"Alex! I'm so glad you're home! Lukas decided to stop by and they have some questions that you may be able to answer. Theoretical, existential questions that I don't have the training to answer."

"Gladly," Alex replied cheerfully. "It's nice to see you again, Lukas. What are you currently researching? Something related to your master's thesis on the abilities and duties of the Life deity? That was an excellent read."

Lukas blushed at the compliment. They'd written their master's thesis while learning as much as they could about themselves and what their purpose was and their step-mother Destiny had helped edit it for them. Destiny was the wife of Linus, though she had moved on from him after he had disappeared after breaking Lukas' heart. Lukas honestly preferred her over their biological father, enough that they had named their daughter after her. Destiny was the only known child of an angel and had several doctorates in complicated fields, usually studying the inner workings of the universe. She was the one who had introduced Luke to Alex, and the three of them spent a lot of time together. Most days, she and Alex continued to work on their understanding of the universe by writing an endless stream of academic papers.

"Okay, so this is all kind of a lot," Lukas began, pulling Alex to the side of the room. "First of all, I'm stuck looking like this. I can't change out of this incarnation."

Luke was just about to take another sip of his coffee, when there was another knock on the door.

"Who else is going to drop by unannounced?" he wondered aloud as he stood to open the door.

"Dad! Great to see you! How have you been?"

Luke was suddenly swept into a hug from his son Hayden, Lukas' oldest brother. Hayden had been the product of a loveless relationship with a woman named Nicole, designed to hide his feelings for Lukas' father in a world that hadn't always been as accepting of same sex relationships. Obviously, the relationship hadn't lasted long, and Nicole ended up dying in the war that had decimated most of Luke's early life, taking the knowledge of their triplets with her. Luke had discovered that he had two sons and a daughter he'd never known about in the short period after one war had ended and before the next one started.

Lukas had been created without Luke's knowledge in the years before he had discovered Hayden and his siblings, and Lukas had confessed more than once to following Hayden around, especially when he was around their father. It was the nature of Lukas' job to watch the living, but they had had an obsession with following their parents and any of their half-siblings around, dreaming to be included in the family they'd never known. The Ocean had forbid Lukas from interfering with their living relatives while they lived, something that Izanami had confirmed made Lukas more obsessed with shadowing their family and dreaming of being a part of their lives. But it would have been disastrous to reveal themselves back then, just as it was still dangerous for Lukas to do now. The past had been less open minded, and exposing Lukas' star crossed same sex parents would have destroyed their standing in society, cutting them off from the battlefields that needed them. It would have devastated and complicated their parents' relationship with each other as Luke had never known about the pregnancy that the Ocean used to make his child. Lukas belonged with them, but they would always be an outsider in the family by their very nature, which drove an obsession in Lukas with the children Luke was allowed to know about in life.

"Oh, this is a surprise," Luke said, watching to see if Lukas had noticed their half-brother's presence yet. "Your sibling is over here too, speaking with Alex. Please keep things civil. Please, Hayden. Lukas doesn't visit as often as you're able to."

"So do you think you and Destiny will be able to help? Both of you know things I could never know about the universe."

Alex nodded thoughtfully.

"You know, if you read our published papers every year, you might come close to knowing more about the universe," he teased. "I send you a copy every Winterfest. But seriously, we'll do our best. I might have more questions for you later, though, so expect an email or two later on."

Some of the tension released from Lukas' shoulders, and they released a relieved sigh. For the first time, they felt like something tangible was happening to fix this situation. Their stepparents were competent, intelligent researchers, and they'd already discovered so many things about the inner working of the universe over the centuries. With Reese helping track down difficult to find souls and their stepparents researching what could possibly be happening to them, Lukas felt at least somewhat in control of the situation.

Just when they thought they could finally breathe, an all too familiar voice was complaining loudly behind them. Lukas would know that voice anywhere.

"What the hell are you doing here, Hayden?" Lukas demanded, crossing their arms. "Shouldn't you be somewhere where you can pretend that me, Riley, Leander, and Katie Lee don't exist? This is my time with our father. You can come back when I'm gone, since it's not like you have anything important to do here or anything. Some of us are working on things critical to both the living realm and the afterlife."

"I see Dad every Tuesday to catch up because I'm a good son," Hayden sneered. "If you're so important, then go fulfill your godly duties elsewhere. Some of us humans are trying be with their family."

"You're both family!" Luke shouted, giving Alex an exasperated look. "You! Sit at the table! You sit beside him!"

Lukas and Hayden took a seat as commanded but refused to look at each other.

"I didn't do anything wrong," Lukas huffed irritably. "I was here first, getting help to save lives and afterlives."

"Who cares about that? I'm older, and Dad's been a part of my life since my twenties. We have a better relationship because of that, plus I'm not related to Linus, so Dad doesn't have to be reminded of his sociopathic ex whenever he looks at me. You've always been jealous of me because you know it's true. I've seen your little disguises where you dye your hair red and pretend to be me, and it's sad. Don't worry so much about all your daddy issues since he's barely your dad. He's just the sperm donor to the Ocean's most useless deity."

"Hayden! That's enough! I don't want to hear you talking to your sibling like that ever again. Lukas is my child, just as much as you are. I can't believe that two grown adults who are millennia old can act so childishly. Both of you apologize to each other. Now."

Both half-siblings mumbled something under their breath that sounded somewhat like it could have been an apology. This was probably the best result Luke could hope for. He had no idea why his children were so competitive and immature. Lukas' full blooded siblings, Leander and Katie Lee, didn't seem fond of Hayden either, but Luke had never had to physically separate them from their half-brother. Lukas and Hayden were much closer in age and had come of age in a world far more violent than the current one. Luke reasoned that this might be the reason only Lukas and Hayden were so volatile, but over the many centuries, the world changed, while Luke's children did not.

Luke didn't know the solution to this dilemma. He couldn't ask just one of his children to leave while the other stayed, nor could he leave the two of them in the same room in case a brawl started. Both of them would cry favouritism at the sign of any kind of compromise, and the look on Alex's face told volumes about his intended plans for the night that didn't involve separating squabbling adult children.

"That's it. Both of you need to leave before I call your husbands and tell them how childish you're being. You can schedule a lunch date with me sometime this week after you've had a chance to cool down. I love both of you and would live to visit with you together if you could promise me that there'd be peace, but I think we all know how likely that is. Hayden, come back tomorrow and bring Cadence. She hardly comes to visit her grandfather unless it's a holiday, and I know she's spent the past two centuries partying with the reapers at those clubs."

"Tomorrow's fine," Hayden replied, sneering at Lukas. "I'll be sure to bring my daughter, who loves her grandfather dearly. It's too bad that Lukas doesn't have any children here willing to spend time with them. I mean, you have all those bastard reaper kids who despise you that you could ask. Do you even remember any of their names? Though, if you're looking for children who are actually memorable, I suppose you killed him. I don't know, I always thought that Luke Jr was a chip off the old block, just like his father in all the important ways."

Hayden disappeared from his seat with a faint pop. Alex stood with his right hand extended, next to an enraged Lukas who looked ready to tackle Hayden to the ground had their brother remained.

"Neat little trick a reaper taught me, cataloged in 'Reapers and the Manipulation of the spirit.' It certainly comes in handy," Alex said, winking at Luke. "And for my next trick-"

With another pop, Lukas vanished from their seat, startling their father.

"That works on deities too?" Luke asked, astonished.

"Deities are simply piles of energy that burn brighter than us mortals. When everything around you is energy, it's not difficult to manipulate the energy around in ways even gods struggle to fight."

Luke beamed at his partner, thanking the Ocean and anyone else who might have played a part in him meeting this brilliant man.

"Well, the kids are gone for now," he replied, grabbing Alex's hand. "I'm sure at least one of them will be back tomorrow, listing off reasons why they hate each other. Now that we're alone, I can think of a better way to spend our time."

Alex returned Luke's passionate glance with one of his own.

"I couldn't agree more."

[4ragon]

Hey hi I don't do this a lot but I think I want to make a book recommendation!

Now, if you're following me (which I'm just going to loosely assume that you are if you're reading this because why else would you be) then I'm going to assume that you share a few interests with me. Interests which include:

Found family

Stories about healing

Stories about acceptance

A weird sense of humor

Magic and fantasy

Queer love stories involving what can only be described as The World's Most Boring Man

If any of the above appeal to you, or all of them, might I recommend:

The House In The Cerulean Sea

by TJ Klune

You guys. It's so good. It's sooooo good. It's such a great take on the magical meeting the mundane. It's witty and funny and sweet and hopeful, it's well written and creative, every single character has so much life and personality, it's just. AUGH. Literally every piece of this book was tailor made for me and I adore it. Probably my new favorite book. It looks like he has another queer book about ghosts and I think that's going right into the to-read pile too, at some point.

Anyway. I dunno. I'll post the blurb from Good Reads under a read more in case any of you want to know more. If you trust my reading tastes, which hey, maybe you can glean from my writing tastes, then definitely grab this book from the library. (Only real TW is mentions of child abuse and neglect, but nothing graphic.)

A magical island. A dangerous task. A burning secret.

Linus Baker leads a quiet, solitary life. At forty, he lives in a tiny house with a devious cat and his old records. As a Case Worker at the Department in Charge Of Magical Youth, he spends his days overseeing the well-being of children in government-sanctioned orphanages.

When Linus is unexpectedly summoned by Extremely Upper Management he's given a curious and highly classified assignment: travel to Marsyas Island Orphanage, where six dangerous children reside: a gnome, a sprite, a wyvern, an unidentifiable green blob, a were-Pomeranian, and the Antichrist. Linus must set aside his fears and determine whether or not they’re likely to bring about the end of days.

But the children aren’t the only secret the island keeps. Their caretaker is the charming and enigmatic Arthur Parnassus, who will do anything to keep his wards safe. As Arthur and Linus grow closer, long-held secrets are exposed, and Linus must make a choice: destroy a home or watch the world burn.

[edvinception]

I love how the first scene we see is of Edvin as Linus! They know what they're doing.🙃 But poor baby, he has been through so much trauma for his young age! 😭

Did Alexandra say anything interesting or give any hints?

Yeah I'm sure it was a conscious decision. They did the same for season 6 and showed a clip of Linus and Sonja.

Not really. She said she couldn't say much.

Regarding Sonja she said it would be boring if Sonja wasn't part of the show (not sure I agree)

But she said maybe it's Sonja's twin Ronja making an appearance lmao.

She said it looks like Sonja died but maybe there will be flashbacks or maybe Sonja is a ghost.

[blackacre13]

Have you read The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo? can you make a loubbie verison please?

This book had me bawling and singing its praises, so this is an HONOR❤️✨ I will never do TJR’s novel Justice, but here is a poor attempt:

There had been a lot of press about me over the years. Scandalous headlines. Award nominations. Rumors. Pity parades. But no one truly knew my story. No one truly knew who Deborah Ocean was. Because well, Debbie Ocean wasn’t real. She was really Devorah Mayim. But I didn’t want to be restricted to a culture or a religion or a family or a background. I wanted to be famous. And I wanted to be famous for being me.

It was inappropriate and a bit rash I’m sure to go about an interview knowing I was going to give a story that was anything but what the magazine was looking for, but even if the magazine was mad, I was going to change this reporter’s damn life. Not that auctioning my gowns to raise money for cancer wasn’t a worthy cause. It was. Most certainly so. After all, cancer had taken my reason for living away not once. But twice. But it was no story. My life. That was the story.

The young girl seems intimidated. And hell, most people would be. But I’m not most people. She has no idea that I’m about to change her life. And she hasn’t the faintest clue that she will be the first human in the world to truly learn the story of Debbie Ocean, starlet and celebrity turned recluse.

It’s easy enough to begin. The smaller parts of my story are the ones that don’t affect me so. They don’t matter as much. They helped shape who I am, of course, but they don’t weigh as heavy on or torture my soul. They’re just artifacts.

My first husband is like that. Linus Caldwell. He was nice enough. A baby face. A boring but stable job. Chivalrous. He knew he was getting more than he bargained for in more ways than one. But he had enough income that he could help me run. And that’s what was important to me at the time.

Dennis Mayim was the devil. He was volatile. He abused my mother. He abused me. And I vowed every night that I would make my way out of Hell’s Kitchen and flee the city for a life that was better. Different.

I was upfront with Linus about this. We had our fun, and I showed him plenty of it, but he was my escape hatch. My safety valve. He wasn’t the love of my life. And that made it easier than ever for me to walk away.

Linus told me he always knew I’d leave him for another man, and that was true. But it wasn’t for love. It was for fame. And I’d never been dishonest about my goals. Robert Ryan, or Rusty, as the industry knew him, was an up and coming producer at Sunset Studios and we became fast friends. He wanted to produce films with stars and I wanted to be a star. He told me I had what it takes.

Linus was done. And Devorah was good as dead. I didn’t want my father trying to convince anyone he was owed any of my money anyway.

Claude was Rusty’s idea. Having a beau on my arm who was already a famous actor would only boost my star and help me on the road to fame. And I won’t lie, he was good…in the kitchen. What started as a publicity stunt turned into something real. It happened when you spent as much time together as we did. We had a lavish wedding. It was a gorgeous affair. A steamy honeymoon. And a Heaven of a homecoming. On camera at least. Hollywood doesn’t pay much attention to what truly happens behind closed doors. Especially when they can’t see the bruises or hear the yelling.

With a scotch in hand and a cigar in his mouth as he cursed at me, I realized my mistake. I’d married my father. I’d been blinded by the potential for fame and success. I hadn’t seen the yield signs.

But beauty is pain. And he was only taking it out on me because I was having an affect on his career as well. Who cares about Claude Becker when he was being outshone by his stunning, glamorous wife, Debbie Ocean? Not enough people for Claude’s liking.

It’s a relief when I am offered a different sort of role. I’ve done the sex. I’ve done the romance. I am tired of playing second fiddle and arm candy to Claude on film and in life. Josephine March was a role that would change all of that. Jo was serious. Aspirational. A writer. A leader. An inspiration to her sisters. It was going to put me on a pedestal and let me be seen in a whole different light. I was ecstatic.

The trouble, you see, was something else entirely. There are four March sisters. Amy is a nuisance. Meg is kind but dull. But Beth? Poor, sweet Beth, who falls ill and is taken from the world too soon? She could steal the show. And worse, she could steal the academy award.

I didn’t know anything about Louise Miller except that she was beautiful and talented. Younger than me. Bolder than me. And that bitch was going to steal my Oscar.

I didn’t know anything about Louise Miller except that she was beautiful and talented. Younger than me. Bolder than me. And that bitch was going to steal my Oscar.

[sleepymarmot]

Ocean's Eleven (2001) & Ocean's Twelve (2004)

Ocean's Eleven

This is basically the gold standard of modern masculine coolness, right?

I definitely saw this at some point, but that was so long ago that I remembered nothing of the specifics. I do remember Ocean’s Eight well enough to compare, though, and what I found out today is that Debbie wasn’t the only Ocean sibling to have a surprising amount of gay chemistry with their blond(e) right hand (wo)man. Good for all of them!

Danny/Tess made a valiant effort to keep up, but unfortunately, Tess’s entire character is the weakest part of the film. The story is male-centric to the extreme, and the only woman is a trophy for the protagonist to steal from the antagonist.

None of these people measure up in hotness to Cate Blanchett in Ocean’s Eight, but they did look nice. A special shout out to the bad guy, who suddenly acquired a dark brooding gothic demeanor when he realized his defeat.

Every review describes Ocean’s Eleven with adjectives such as “smooth”, “fun”, and “charming”, which is true, but in addition to that, an essential factor that makes it work as a “feel-good movie” for me is how non-violent it is, despite the hypermasculinity. The target of robbery is utterly unsympathetic, there’s little to no collateral damage, guns only enter the picture as a two second long fakeout. The viewers don’t have the reason to feel bad for anyone and can just bask in the good vibes. (Though personally, I still managed to get nervous a few times during the heist, even though I knew perfectly well that the job would end in success. I’m really not built for any kind of suspense, huh.) It’s extremely shallow, but instead of the common and annoying “pretends to be deep but fails” way, it’s shallow in the “our only goal is to make this as fun as possible” way, and that gets no objections from me.

Ocean's Twelve

I genuinely can’t tell if I’ve watched Ocean’s Twelve before in full or not. I remember the laser dancing sequence, and the Bruce Willis-Julia Roberts stuff feels familiar, but everything else feels totally new to my present self.

They Garak’d Brad Pitt so hard! Literally the first scene of the movie grabs the viewer by the shoulders and shouts “Oh you thought he seemed kinda gay? Here, look, he’s definitely attracted to women!” Also, God, Hollywood kissing close-ups are so obnoxious.

The thief/cop romance is not bad in theory, but felt forced in practice; now that Danny and Tess are back together, we need another obligatory white heterosexual will they/won’t they (that doubles as a no homo, see above). The “reveal” that the legendary thief who might or might not be dead, and the thief father who allegedly died around the same time, are in fact the same person, can be seen from miles away; the real surprise is that Isabel herself didn’t figure it out somehow.

Linus was only slightly annoying in the first one, but here he’s given prolonged scenes that are painfully awkward to watch. What was the point of making him the “immature SJW” if that didn’t even go anywhere?

Vincent Cassel is not as good of an antagonist as Andy García. Watching Terry Benedict threaten the crew at the beginning of the film was actually pretty fun, and the Night Fox just doesn’t have anything to be a worthy successor to that classic villain charisma.

Overall I have to say I was pretty bored. Perhaps it’s my fault for watching the second movie the day after the first, motivated more by curiosity than “I’m really missing the heist movie vibe right now”. Several times I thought “this can’t possibly be the real heist, it’s not good enough”. The final twist was decent if a bit predictable, but it wasn’t enough to justify the whole thing.

I considered completing the marathon with Ocean’s Thirteen (which I have no memory of, either), but perhaps it would be wise to leave it for later. I suspect movies like these work better as palate cleansers or light entertainment, and trying to be completionist with them like with typical series would be counterproductive. For now, it might be better to take a break from action movies starring white American men — I feel testosterone-poisoned already!