#You're probably one of those 'only follow if above 13 but don't follow if over 25' people huh?

[heartshapedcreaturefromcriptoon]

@cassraps Then why the fuck are you posting in our weirdo tags then? And why are you 23 and even letting minors follow you, you red flag fandom mom with a gamer icon piece of shit?

hey . a not so gentle reminder to read my byf bc i’d appreciate if i dont have weirdos following me lol

[sardonic-sprite]

You guys I almost cried in church today, I love my pastor so much.

Just yesterday I already wanted to write about this, because I was driving with a friend and her mom, who was making all these comments and "jokes" that made me so uncomfortable, but then I waited because I had a lot to do and then at church today my pastor was out but one of the elders read his sermon and...

It was like everything that was making me feel so icky was justified. Not in a "ha, im right" way, but in a "God, I DID understand" way.

And I'm not going to go into all the pointed details, but...

Christianity is supposed to be about love. Unconditional love.

If a Christian is scolding and mocking, saying that people who act or think differently about the world are "confused," or - God, I hate this one - going to "burn in hell" for those things, even as a joke, that is not what Christianity is.

Christianity is about listening to those people, trying to understand them, and above all loving them, no matter what. As my pastor put it,

God's end goal is never condemnation.

But lately it's like that's all Christians - the vocal ones, anyway - do. If these are the kind of Christians you interact with, I don't blame you for wanting nothing to do with the church. It's painful to me, even though none of those Christians who I interact with know that they're calling me damned too.

And understand, I'm not calling these people bad or even bad Christians, because they're not. A lot of them are better people than me, with faith I often envy. But what I am saying is that I think for whatever reason the full picture isn't coming into focus for them.

They understand what the Gospel does for them. They're fully saved. The trust they have in God is not the issue. It's when they think about what they are called to do in response to the Gospel. Live righteously they're all over. But love others... not as much as I'm sure they think.

And this is my command, love one another as I have loved you.

- John 13:34

Jesus loves without prerequisite. And He loves so greatly that He was willing to die to rescue the very people that were hurting Him. That's the kind of love Christians are called to emulate.

Do we always do that? Fuck no. It is hard. We're just human. Often, we end up looking like hypocrites, and there's probably some people that are. But as a Christian, I want to say this for all of us.

I'm sorry for when we have failed to love you. For when we've condemned you and written you off.

That comes from our failure to follow God's call.

God's love is still unconditional, even if you don't want to accept it.

And to fellow Christians, I want to remind you about God's commandment. Yes, singular, right up there ^. Two at maximum. Not the 10 you're thinking of. Because Jesus boiled all those down to

Love God

Love others

Not other righteous people (I mean, yeah, them too, but not only them). Love all people. If you start with love, righteousness will naturally follow.

But if you start with righteousness, be careful that you don't end up missing love.

Because if you're missing that, you're missing the point.

[bluestar22x]

Christmas In Jackson

Summary: Joel and Ellie join Tommy and Maria to celebrate Christmas (follows canon unless Season 2 contradicts it - probably will)

Characters: Joel Miller, Ellie Williams, Tommy Miller, Maria Miller

Rating: 13+

Warnings: Lots of fluff, some angst, and fowl language

Word Count: 2,250 (ish)

Author’s Note: This is technically a sequel of sorts to The Tree, but can be read alone since it doesn't make any references to it. Also note baby Miller being born in the late spring matches the show's timeline since Maria found out she was pregnant in September sometime (it's why Tommy stopped contacting Joel).

xxx

Celebrating Christmas on the twenty-fourth of December had always been the tradition in the Miller household as far as Joel could remember and Tommy and Maria had apparently upheld it in Jackson. They'd upheld a lot of the Miller family Christmas traditions, while intertwining it with some of Maria's family's too. One of those traditions she'd brought with her was gift exchanging.

"What's the point of giving someone a gift if you know you're going to get something back?" Ellie asked Joel one day at the beginning of December 2024, after Tommy had informed them of the gift exchange they were going to participate in. They were walking back home from the stables after a long day of school for her and patrol for him. "Isn't that just trading?"

"It is, sure," he conceded. "A gift exchange assures everyone gets a present. The point of it is that everyone gets something either meaningful or useful. It's about the thought put into the gift."

"So what are you going to get Maria?" she inquired curiously.

Joel had randomly gotten Maria to exchange gifts with and Ellie had gotten Tommy.

"No damn idea," he grunted.

He and Maria had slowly gotten on better terms over the course of the year as he'd proven himself reliable and trustworthy, only violent when necessary out on patrol. They couldn't be called close, but they got along. That didn't mean he talked to her enough to be sure of what she'd want for Christmas though. He'd have to ask Tommy.

"What should I get Tommy?" she questioned.

"Why don't you draw him something?" Joel suggested. Ellie had taken to drawing like a fish to water since they'd officially moved to Jackson, and she had the kind of raw talent that hadn't needed much tuning, just a little practice. "What about drawing William?"

William was Tommy and Maria's son who had been born in late spring, not long after their return to Jackson.

"You think he'd like that?" she frowned. "I'm not that good yet."

"Who told you that?" Joel growled, ready to share some choice words with whoever had made her doubt her abilities.

"Nobody," she replied quickly, "I just don't know if anything I make is gift worthy."

"It is," he promised her. He didn't think he was too biased.

"Okay," she said, though she still didn't sound convinced.

"You'll do fine," he assured her. "And if you're really not satisfied with what you draw, we'll think of something else, alright?"

She nodded, shoulders sagging with relief over not being stuck if she didn't like how it turned out.

"You've got nothing to worry about," he told her.

"If you say so."

x

Christmas Eve arrived faster than any Joel could recall, or so it felt, but he'd managed to find something to give Maria in that time and Ellie had made Tommy the drawing, and all that was left was to join them for supper at their house and swap the gifts after.

It felt odd celebrating Christmas like that after over twenty years, and there was a sting to it, because Sarah wasn't there to celebrate alongside them, especially after his eyes glanced her name on the memorial chalkboard above Tommy and Maria's fireplace, but Joel kept himself together for Ellie. It was the first Christmas she'd ever celebrated and he didn't want to kill the excitement she genuinely had for taking part in a holiday that was rarely ever noted outside Jackson.

They ate at the kitchen table, opposite of Tommy, Maria, and William, a whole fat chicken at the center of the table alongside mashed potatoes and green beans, followed by apple pie for desert. It was more basic than the meals Joel and Tommy's mother used to make when they were growing up, but it was the best meal Joel had had in ages. Both he and Ellie ate far more than they should've but neither could find it in themselves to regret it, as stuffed as they were. Joel made sure to thank Maria for it after and that Ellie did the same, knowing his sister-in-law had cooked all the food by herself before they'd arrived.

After supper William was put to bed and they all sat down in the living room (Joel and Ellie on the couch, Maria and Tommy in chairs) to watch Elf (which had Ellie in stitches) and to talk. Tommy, Maria, and Ellie did most of the conversating (mainly about their friends, work/school, and the animals), while Joel sat back and listened, when he wasn't distracted by memories of Christmas past and the roaring fire in the fireplace that threatened to lull him to sleep.

It was nearly ten o' clock when they finally opened presents. Ellie handed Tommy his gift as soon as she could, too anxious to wait any longer.

When he pulled it out of the box she'd closed it up it, he was clearly amazed by it. "You did this, Ellie? Without any help?"

He showed off the drawing. There was William in great penciled detail, giggling while being held in Maria's arms. She was beaming down at him lovingly.

"I did," Ellie said nervously.

"You've got some talent kid," he told her in awe. "Thank you."

"We're going to have to find a frame to put it in," Maria said, also clearly impressed. "Would look nice hung up in here."

"In the living room?" Ellie quizzed, surprised.

They both nodded.

"Oh, wow, I'm glad you like it that much," she rambled, looking like she was ready to blush.

"Told ya he'd love it," Joel said, grinning. He was so proud of her. He'd had no doubts she'd outdo herself, and she had by adding Maria in the drawing.

She smiled broadly back at him and the light in her eyes warmed his heart. They'd been through hell together, but to see her so happy was worth it all. At least for him. He only hoped she felt the same.

"Your turn," Tommy declared, handing Ellie a gift wrapped in old newspaper. "It goes quite well with the present you gave me."

She thanked him and tore into it, paper flying. She beamed at him when a drawing kit was revealed. It had one hundred drawing papers and a dozen sketching pencils. A mechanical pencil sharpener was also included. "Where did you find this?"

"An art store in a town about a twenty minute ride from 'ere," Tommy answered. "Joel was with me when we found it. There's more where that came from when you need it. Art stores are probably one of the few old businesses that are actually still fairly well stocked."

"Holy shit, this is awesome."

"Ellie," Joel warned habitually.

She rolled her eyes. "Yeah, yeah. Language. We're civilized now."

Tommy chuckled, always amused by those kinds of interactions between them. It reminded him of how his brother and Sarah had been around each other. Though Ellie was quite different from Sarah, she had helped fill the gaping hole she'd left behind, and he was grateful to the girl for being herself, for helping his brother heal, and for helping him heal too. He hadn't realized how much he truly was missing not just Sarah, but also just being an uncle in general. Over the last several months he thought he and Ellie were getting there, especially since she no longer felt threatened by him, now that she was sure Joel wouldn't abandon her just because he found his blood family again.

Maria passed a gift over to Joel next. "I hope you liked desert as much as you said you did."

He blinked up at her curiously before unwrapping it to see a whole apple pie in his grasp.

"Tommy told me it's one of your favorites," she said. "Now you can have one to yourself."

Ellie smirked. "Yeah, sure."

Joel knew for certain then that she'd end up bumming a slice off of it; not that he'd mind.

"I was telling the truth," he swore to Maria. "This pie will be lucky to survive until tomorrow night."

She gave him a nod. "Good." Maria had no doubt about him being honest. He'd not given her any reason to since he'd settled in Jackson with Ellie. Joel had a dark history, but over time she'd realized that he wasn't at all the violent man she'd imagined. Yes, he'd very much been violent at times, and at times he still could be when needed, but there was always reason behind it, and he seemed to much prefer to avoid it, at least since Ellie came into his life. He'd fit into Jackson quite nicely, and though he wasn't the most chatty character in town, everyone she'd talked to liked him. He was as southern gentleman as anyone could get and he had gotten to know many of them through the work he did repairing things around town. Most importantly though, he was a good parent to Ellie and uncle to William, softer with them than she could've ever imagined. She knew she could trust him with their lives, and Tommy's, whenever the two brothers teamed up on a patrol.

Joel handed her the gift he'd found for her. "Your turn."

She nodded and dug into the old holiday bag he'd put it in. She pulled out a small stereo. A CD player.

"Tommy told me yours broke," Joel explained. "Found that one in a electronics store on the same trip to the art one. I was shocked it still works, but it does. Just needed some serious dusting off first."

"Thank you, Joel," Maria said, smiling genuinely at him. "I was missing playing my CDs."

He gave her a curt nod, still awkward about any praise coming from her, as if he felt he didn't deserve it. As far as she was concerned he did, at the very least for the thoughtful gift.

"You're welcome." He shifted to reach for another present that was on the couch cushion beside him. "This is for William."

She opened that one as well. It was three hand carved wooden blocks with painted numbers on them. She sucked in a breath. "Did you make these yourself?"

Joel nodded.

"I'm not the only one with a hidden ability apparently," Ellie piped up. "Not only can he play guitar, he can also carve. Who'd have thunk?"

Maria was certainly surprised. The details on the blocks, the perfectly straight lines - it must have taken Joel hours to make them. Her heart thawed even more for her brother-in-law. "William will love these. I'll show them to him in the morning."

"If you don't mind," he started, "I'd like to be here when you do."

She smiled again. "Sure. Stop by when you're up. But not before eight or I shoot you."

He laughed hard enough for the crinkles around his eyes to be prominent. "Sure thing."

"What's that last gift beside you for?" Ellie inquired, pointing out the remaining one by his hip.

"That one's yours," Joel revealed, shoving it into her hands.

She hesitated to take it from him. "But I didn't get you anything. You didn't tell me we were exchanging gifts too."

"We aren't," Joel replied. "I just felt like getting this for ya, since it's your first real Christmas. Go on. Open it up."

She did, and she gasped at what was inside. "No Pun Intended Volume One!"

The dark blue colored book had silly drawings of puns on it like the purple one Ellie had been carrying around until it was lost in Utah.

"I know it can't replace the one you lost," Joel began, "But now you have new puns to share with your friends."

He was sure he'd be the victim of most of them but he was willing to endure it.

She grinned at him devilishly. Oh, he definitely would get the brunt of them.

"Thanks, Joel. I'm going to think of something to get you."

"You don't have to."

"I will."

Joel sighed. It wasn't worth arguing with her. If she wanted to get him something she would. It was that simple.

The exchange finally done, the four of them soon hugged and said their goodbyes for the night, all more than ready to get some sleep. All except Ellie.

As soon as she and Joel were home and he'd headed for bed, she got to work on his present, determined to have it done by morning, even if she went without any shut eye.

Luckily she was finished making it by four am, and she slipped into her bed to catch a few hours of sleep before Joel stirred to make breakfast.

He found it on their kitchen table as he was sitting down to sip a mug of shitty old coffee Tommy had found for him during the summer. He'd been drinking it only on special occasions.

Finding Ellie's present to him happened to be one of those, more so than the day being a holiday.

It was another drawing. This time of him standing next to his favorite horse in the Jackson stable, a young bay stallion named Caliber. He was stroking his neck with a gloved hand and smiling fondly at him. Ellie had put so much detail into it. The spike of too short hair in Cal's forelock, his intelligent eyes, the patches in Joel's beard, and every single scar on his face were all accounted for.

The fact that Ellie could draw him like that by memory, in just one night, stunned Joel. It was the greatest gift she could've ever been able to give him. Her love for him drawn out on paper.

He'd treasure it for the rest of his life.

xxx

Tagged: @harriedandharassed, @morallyinept

xxx

Main Masterlist

xxx

[basaltbutch]

thanks for tagging me @sunshineinbetween! :D

1. Why did you choose your url?

Mostly just wanted a change of pace from my old one! (Also my biological & abusive father was stalking my old url so.) But basically uhhhh i love wandering around in the middle of nowhere like a lost child and also corvids <3

2. Any side blogs?

Quite a bit actually! None of them are super active anymore because I stopped caring about social media. Only one that's still kinda used is @softsayings which is a joint blog between rickshaww and I.

3. How long have you been on tumblr?

...I wanna say 2017??? Is when I made my first account? I abandoned it after a couple of months and never picked it up again (it was a kin blog, surprising probably no one) and I made this one in,,, March 2018 according to the archive. So when I was about 16.

4. Do you have a queue tag?

I do not and the only thing I put in my queue is the anthropocene sea foam post whenever someone reminds me about it <3

5. Why did you start your blog in the first place?

This blog originally was a witchcraft blog. I. don't think that's the case anymore lmao.

6. Why did you choose your icon/pfp?

@rickshaww my beloved drew us for my birthday present and I wanted to show it off :3

7. Why did you choose your header?

Cool and sexy abandoned building we found during a roadtrip and one wall looked like album art!! (Also think it's especially cool how that building had the lyrics from the Garages' Deicide written on the wall and how I'd absolutely never even think about doing something like that.)

8. What’s your post with the most notes?

On this blog, it is, and I quote, "AAAAAAAA DISCIPLINE FUCKS HARDCORE" which 30 whole people seemed to like and I pray my blog never gets any bigger because if it gets like my old aesthetic blog I will just nuke this one and start over.

9. How many mutuals do you have?

No clue! I think I'm mutuals with most of the ppl I follow/that I regularly see on my dash though.

10. How many followers do you have?

109!! And I never want to get above 200.

11. How many people do you follow?

201! Also want to stay pretty low,,, too many and it gets overwhelming.

12. Have you ever made a shitpost?

uhhhhhh I cannot recall. Probably? Do the anthropocene spam posts count??

13. How often do you use tumblr each day?

Oof.

14. Did you have a fight/argument with another blog once?

Uhhhh,,,, no...??? I don't think so, at least not a real one.

15. How do you feel about “you need to reblog this” posts?

You put too many of those on my dashboard and it's an instant unfollow babey!! I do not wish to see it <3 if I think it's important and I have enough energy to care I would reblog it anyway, you guilt-tripping me automatically makes me stop listening <3

16. Do you like tag games?

I do!!! Would love to remember to do them😔. They make me feel like we are all sitting around a campfire asking each other weird questions.

17. Do you like ask games?

Sometimes!! I think it's funnier when I get just. random asks out of nowhere though. (my inbox is literally always open btw, go ahead and send me stupid shit if you're bored)

18. Which of your mutuals do you think is tumblr famous?

A really popular mystic messenger fan artist at the time. became mutuals with me and then immediately dipped for twitter?? Otherwise most of my mutuals r just chilling in our little corners. Doing our little gay activities.

19. Do you have a crush on a mutual?

Uh,,, I don't think so? 100% aro here, no crushes to be found. Y'all do make me really happy tho :3

Uhhhh no pressure tags; @rickshaww @heathenhouse @redminibike1

[miraculouslbcnreactions]

Before we begin, I want to be clear that this is NOT me saying that you're wrong. This is me stating that I don't understand the logic, explaining why, and then asking what I'm missing that makes it clear that this is a race issue. To begin that discussion we must first discuss why salt fics exist and why that complicates this.

Why So Salty?

Salt fics come about when someone is so annoyed by some aspect of canon that they need to write a version of canon where the thing that bugs them gets addressed. Where the wrongs are righted and the guilty pay. For example, if I am salty about Adrien constantly pushing for Ladynoir and want it to stop, then I would go and write a fic where Adrien suffers and loses Marinette forever. Probably by pairing her with someone else.

When it comes to this issue with Adrien, there is no collateral damage. No one else needs to look bad for the Adrien issue to be addressed. His pushiness is all on him and so an Adrien-is-pushy salt fic will be an Adrien salt fic and only an Adrien salt fic. When it comes to Lila's issues, that is not true.

Lila's issue is not canon making her tell really stupid lies. It's canon making her tell really stupid lies and everyone else believing those lies. If no one believes the lies, then Lila has no power. That means that, for Lila salt to work, you often have to have someone looking like a fool. This is where the problem lies and why I'm struggling to see this as an Alya-specific issue.

Data Analysis

When you look at AO3 and search for salt of the Miraculous five from season two, the numbers are as follows:

Nino Lahiffe Bashing: 38 hits Marientte Dupain-Cheng | Ladybug Bashing: 99 hits Chloe Bourgeois Bashing: 165 hits Adrien Agreste | Chat Noir Bashing: 757 hits Alya Cesaire Bashing: 903 hits

Alya is the most bashed character, which backs the racism argument. But Adrien is the second highest BY FAR, which doesn't fall in line. Why is the rich white guy so far above everyone else if this this a race issue? I started looking at what these fics are about and that's when I found an interesting correlation. A lot of the Adrien salt is less pure Adrien salt and more salt about Adrien's role in the Lila plot. (The infamous "high road" advice.)

Of Adrien's 757 salt fics, 192 fics also have the tag "Lila Rossi's Lies Are Exposed" and 411 have the tag "Lila Rossi Bashing". Remove all fics with one of those tags and the Adrien salt goes from 757 hits to 311 hits. Almost 60% of Adrien's salt is related to Lila.

Let's do the same analysis for Alya.

Of Alya's 903 salt fics, 324 fics also have the tag "Lila Rossi's Lies Are Exposed" and 649 have the tag "Lila Rossi Bashing". Remove all fics with one of those tags and the Alya salt goes from 903 hits to 212 hits. Over 80% of Alya's salt is related to Lila.

I did this for all of the characters listed above and, if we remove Lila from the show, the salt count looks like this:

Nino Lahiffe Bashing: 13 hits Marientte Dupain-Cheng | Ladybug Bashing: 81 hits Chloe Bourgeois Bashing: 99 hits Alya Cesaire Bashing: 212 hits Adrien Agreste | Chat Noir Bashing: 311 hits

Also, in case anyone was curious:

Lila Rossi's Lies Are Exposed: 1,457 hits Lila Rossi Bashing: 2,105 hits

A quick glance through AO3 showed that even the remaining fics had some Lila salt, probably because not everyone sees Lila being defeated as bashing since she's a villain and people who tag bashing may not use the Lila is exposed tag. Either way, remove Lila and, outside of Marinette, every character sees a MASSIVE decline in salt. The numbers are now much more in line with what I'd expect to see based on screen time, though I am surprised that Marinette is so low. It's possible that this is because she's the lead and, if people hate her, they just leave the fandom.

Whatever the reason, Alya is no longer top dog. Even though she often gets more screen time than Adrien, Adrien still wins by 150%.

My Confusion

Lila poisons everything. Adrien made one bad comment related to her and - at a quick glance - got over 400 fics because of it. Nino is barely involved in the Lila plot and still got 20 fics with overlap. Is it any wonder that Alya was even more damaged given the role canon has forced on her?

Canon has made Alya a key vehicle for the Lila plot. She is Lila's biggest supporter. The one who denies Marinette's liar claims every time they come up. This makes it a challenge to address the Lila problem without Alya taking collateral damage as the following quotes will hopefully show.

Chameleon:

Marinette: She lies with every breath. Nino: Wait. You eavesdropped on Lila and Adrien? That's not cool. Alya: A good reporter always verifies her sources. Can you prove she doesn't actually know Ladybug?

Ladybug:

Lila:(to Nathaniel) I'm good friends with the best manga publisher in Japan, you know. I can talk to them about your comic book project if you like. Marinette: She's such a liar! Alya: You gotta stop obsessing over her, Marinette.

Alya: You're my best friend, Marinette. I totally believe you, but the evidence is stacked against you. The good thing is, the world's greatest reporters always seek the truth, so I'm gonna prove your innocence. Marinette:(sighs in relief) Thanks, Al! Alya: First off, a culprit always leaves clues. That's a given. And by following these clues, it will lead us... Marinette: ...to Lila! Alya: No, to the guilty party. If you're so quick to accuse Lila, you might just overlook another potential baddie!

(As a reminder, the person accusing Marinette here is Lila and one of the accusations is that Marinette pushed Lila down the stairs. It's a little hard to buy that Lila was tricked about that when Marinette and Lila where the only people on the scene for that one.)

Revelation:

Marinette: It's Lila! No matter (slams her food tray on the table) what she's doing, she's always up to something!! Alya: Marinette, you know we'll always believe you. But every time you've accused Lila, there's been no evidence. And at worst, it was just a misunderstanding. (Nino nods in agreement.) You disliked her from day one because you thought she was after Adrien — fine. But it's over now! You know Adrien only has eyes for you! You don't need to be jealous anymore. (Marinette scowls.) Adrien: I should've said something sooner, but Marinette's right. Lila's a pathological liar and a talented one at that. She always manages to lie her way out of trouble. (Alya and Nino coo at Adrien's defense.) Nino: Aww! Look how he'd say anything for his sweetheart! They sound like a real little couple now. Alya: That's super sweet of you, Adrien! But you don't have to defend Marinette, you know? (Adrien only had his brows furrowed, seeing that their friends don't seem to believe him, too. Marinette squeezes his hand under the table.)

Almost every episode involving Lila also involves Alya defending Lila and telling Marinette that Lila is fine. While it's not impossible to address your Lila anger without involving Alya, involving Alya fits the writing that canon gave us. No one has to do any heavy lifting to write Alya as part of the Lila problem. That's just canon. If you're mad about everything Lila, then it makes sense to be frustrated with the way Alya was written in that plot and want to vent that anger even if you generally like Alya and understand that it's ultimately a writing issue. That's the issue that I'm struggling with and looking to understand.

The premise of the argument appears to be that it's wrong to be upset at how canon has written Alya in relation to Lila and you should not express frustration with the part Alya has been forced to play. I'm asking why? What's wrong with being upset with that bad writing and venting about it?

Once again, this is not me saying you're wrong or that Alya is terrible. Alya is one of my favorite characters and I think the Lila plot did her extremely dirty. But that doesn't change the fact that canon did in fact make Alya look terrible. I get extremely frustrated with her in the Lila episodes and I'm struggling to see why that's wrong. Why can't people be mad at the things that canon actually made her do?

Any ML characters that you do think are overhated?

No one really comes to mind. While I end up defending Marinette the most, I'm more critical of specific criticisms or the way the criticisms are handled than I am of the fact that people can't stand her or any other character. Almost every significant character has come across as pretty terribly at one point or another and I understand why some viewers can't look past those bad writing choices. Many side characters have also done questionable things. Off to top of my head, here are some flaws that are understandably hard to overlook:

Alya blindly believing everything Lila says and dismissing Marinette's concerns, especially after the reveal of Ladybug's identity

Nino outing Alya's identity to Adrien and never telling her (Rocketear), then doing it again in public without asking her permission (Illusion)

Adrien pushing for Ladynoir in spite of Ladybug's multiple requests that he stop

Marinette using her trauma as an excuse for her inability to treat Adrien as a normal human being

The entire miracuclass trying to force Marinette and Adrien to kiss while they watch

Everything Nathalie did - or more damningly didn't do - in season five

Any and all of these things are understandably off-putting. While I don't particularly like pure salt fics, I do get why they exist. Sometimes you just need an outlet to express your frustration! I do it via this blog, but I don't judge anyone for doing it via a vent fic instead. I just get concerned when the annoyance and anger leads to poor media literacy where people act as if these characters are real people doing real things. They're not. They're puppets controlled by poor-quality puppet masters.

Along the same lines, I also get annoyed when people pick and choose which jokes to take at face value, when people hold different characters to wildly different standards, or when people act like their favorite is the biggest victim of the bad writing. They're all victims at this point. There's no point debating who got it worse. It's not going to fix the issues. At this point, I don't think that anything can. The last two seasons made the flaws too deep. The only way to make the story work is a full reboot.

That's why this is a writing salt, character sugar blog. I'm not here to defend the writing or tell you that the characters have done nothing wrong. I'm here to defend the basic story setup and explain why the problems all fall at the feet of the writers. This isn't the kind of story where it is intentionally making you hate the characters. Outside of Chloe and Lila, you are supposed to like basically the entire cast. It's embarrassing how hard the writers failed at that assignment.

[nyerus]

🌸 Updates and FAQs for Watching the TGCF Donghua! 🌸

✴️First, check out my detailed guide HERE if you want to know how to subscribe to YouTube or Bilibili!

Please read through these if you have any questions first before sending in an ask, as it's probably answered here (or the previous guide)!!! If you don't see it here, or still have confusions afterwards, then feel free to send in an ask or DM me!

---

✨Important Notes/Updates✨

Bilibili is allowing non-members to watch for free! No region locks, and you don’t even need to make an account. Free watchers will be one week behind paid members. But this is a legal and free way to support the donghua if you’re unable to pay! (This actually means that you’ll be able to see the episodes faster and for free on Bilibili than you would on YouTube, because YouTube has a two week delay instead of just one week.)

Funimation is broadcasting TGCF in the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. These are some of the regions which are blocked by YouTube, so this is an available alternative for those who don’t want to go through Bilibili. They have also stated they will launch in Mexico and Brazil this winter.

ALL broadcasts are in Chinese with hard-coded/embedded English and Chinese subs. (I.e., they come with the broadcast itself, on top of the image. Nothing to toggle on/off, they are automatically there.) They are the exact same across all the platforms.

Please support official releases so that we can get more seasons, and high quality! This is still niche content, believe it or not!

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✨Frequntly Asked Questions✨

🔹GENERAL FAQs:🔹

1.) "Where is the best place to watch?"

I still reccomend Bilibili's native website/app over all other streaming platforms. This is due to some key points:

Bilibili's website/app gets the episode the very second they drop. There is no delay whatsoever. YouTube and Funimation have been delayed the last two weeks. It's unknown if this is just a hiccup or what, but if watching new episodes ASAP is important to you, going through Bilibili ensures you will not have to worry about any uncertainty.

Price breakdowns: Bilibili's website/app 3-month membership is $10-11 USD. Their YouTube channel's "MBBM Lv2" membership varies by region, but in many places is similar or just a tad more. In the US, the MBBM Lv2 membership and Funimation membership is the same price ($5.99 per month, or $17.97 for 3 months). So you can actually save some cash by going through Bilibili directly.

In the end, this is largely up to personal choice and comfort. Some people may find it difficult to navigate Bilibili's website even with guides and google translate's auto-translate feature. In this case, YouTube or Funimation are fine alternatives. If you also have an existing Funimation sub or plan to use it to watch other shows, then that's perfectly valid too. Similar with the MBBM lv2 sub on YouTube, especially if you want to use it to see other shows (e.g. Legend of Exorcism which is only English-subbed on YouTube).

2.) "Where do I watch for free?"

On Bilibili's website, you can watch episodes for free! You will be one episode behind paid members, but it's a legal way to support the donghua. You don't even need to create an account!

3.) "What episode will be airing when/where?"

Check out the table below for the differences in airing times. Time is 11AM China Time.*

NOTE: Funimation is technically supposed to be the same as Bilibili members/YouTube MBBM Lv2, but the last few episodes have been delayed so I have no clue.... *Additionally, YouTube's episodes have been delayed by a little bit, but they've aired the same day.

4.) "How can I support the donghua?"

Free, on YouTube: Subscribe to Bilibili's YouTube Channel, give likes to TGCF videos/clips, and leave nice comments!

Free, on Bilibili: Everyone can follow the official TGCF account and page, plus leave likes on videos. All this following stuff requires you to have passed the Bilibili quiz to unlock levels: If you are lv2+, you can leave comments and give coins to offical TGCF videos. (Log in daily to get 1 coin/day if you're lv1+!) If you are lv4+, leave a good 5-star review!

Paid: Buy subscriptions to watch the donghua! Also, merchhhhh~

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🔸YOUTUBE-RELATED FAQs🔸

1.) "What's the difference between Bilibili's YouTube Channel's MBBM Lv1 and Lv2 memberships?"

MBBM Lv2 allows you to watch the episodes on the same day as Bilibili's website broadcast.

MBBM Lv1 has new episodes delayed by one week, meaning you will be one episode behind the others. There actually is zero point in subscribing to MBBM Lv1 (unless you want to watch other subbed donghua) because you can watch the same content on Bilibili for absolutely free, since Bilibili is allowing non-members to watch TGCF one episode behind paid members.

You can also watch two episodes behind on YouTube.

2.) "If I have YouTube Premium/Red, do I still need a membership on Bilibili's YouTube page?"

Yes. YouTube premium is completely separate from the channel-specific memberships.

3.) "Are episodes simulcast on YouTube?"

While originally stated as being simulcast, there actually seems to be a bit of a delay on YouTube as of now. It's unclear if this will change with future episodes.

4.) "Do I need a VPN?"

If you are from one of the restricted countries, then yes, you'll need to use a VPN. You can still pay for the subscription as normal, and then use a VPN to watch the donghua. It will not affect payment.

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🔹BILIBILI-RELATED FAQs:🔹

1.) "Do I need to take that 100-question quiz to sign up for Bilibili or the membership?!"

No, it's totally optional! You do not need it to either watch the free episodes or to buy a membership. It's only if you want to comment and stuff. It might make you think you gotta do it, or enter a code, but it's actually not needed. Check out THIS post for more info!!! (However, you may still want to do it in order to level up and eventually leave a nice review for the donghua!)

2.) "I'm only able to watch 6min on Bilibili's website when I watch from my phone. Do I need the app?"

You do not need the app. Switch your browser to Desktop Mode in order to watch the video in full.

Be sure to download a browser like Google Chrome, Firefox, etc that supports this mode if your native browser doesn't allow for it.

3.) "Can I get the app on iPhone/iOS?"

This depends on if you are in a country where the app is not region locked in the app store. If you're able to download it that way, great! If not, try using a VPN and setting your region to mainland China. It may work. APKs are not useable on iPhones, so unless you know how to sideload apps onto your device, you may be stuck with the app store only.

Do note that you might be unable to pay for a Bilibili membership through the app, depending on version, but you can always simply pay through the website and then use the app as normal. It will apply account-wide on all devices.

4.) "Why are there two versions of the app?"

One seems to be the international version, which is more basic and lets you pay via GooglePay/ApplePay. The other one seems to be made for mainland China, and allows you to even buy merchandise through it (Chinese address/bank acc required). Mostly, both have to be downloaded via APK on Android. But some iOS users have reported different versions of the app being available for them through the app store (namely the int'l ver, and some have said they can use a VPN to get the mainland one).

5.) "Is there any benefit to having the app over just using the website?"

Not really, no. With the app you can buy very cute hualian themed skins for your profile, though (if you have the mainland version of the app). Plus you can save videos for offline viewing.

6.) "Do I need to enter my area code for Bilibili when signing up/in?"

NO, you do not enter your area code in the phone number field. Select your country from the drop-down list and it will automatically consider your area code. (E.g. if you're in America, select 美国 and enter in your number like 5557779999.)

7.) "I didn't get to set a password when signing up, so how do I log into my Bilibili account after being logged out?"

Use the same phone number you did to sign up. Instead of a password, you'll enter in a one-time key that is sent to your phone via text message. (NOTE: some people have reported not receiving these messages, which may vary by phone carrier!)

As mentioned above, don't include your area code when filling out your number.

Also, if you are signed in on the app on your phone, you can scan the QR code on the log-in page through the app.

8.) "How do I turn off the barrage comments filling up the video I'm watching?"

Select the little button that reads "弹" under the video:

(Website vs App)

9.) Is the Bilibili subscription auto-renewing?

No, the 1-month (¥25), 3-month (¥68), 1-year (¥168) subscriptions will not automatically renew. They are a one-time payment only!

Notice that the renewing payments all say "连续" in front of them, which means "continuing" or "successive" types of subscriptions. They are also cheaper than the one-time payment. (E.g. the renewing 3-month sub is ¥45 instead of ¥68.) Moreover, the renewing types are not even available to purchase with PayPal, afaik. You need Alipay or WeChat Pay, etc.

10.) "Can I use the app/membership to read the manhua too?"

Unfortunately, not quite! Your Bilibili account is universal, but you'll need to download the manhua app seperately and topping up M-coins to pay for the manhua. (One-time purchases, either by volume or by chapter as per your choice.)

11.) "What resolutions are available?"

You can watch up to 480p as a free member. Paid members can watch at 1080p and high-bit-rate 1080p. It's possible to chromecast it to TV, too. (I haven't tried it, but others have!)

12.) "Can I watch across multiple devices?"

Yes, you can!

13.) "Do I need a VPN?"

No, Bilibili is not region-locked. However, some particular countries may have Chinese apps blocked.... :(

14.) "I want to leave a comment/review. How do I level up on Bilibili?"

Log in daily, watch at least one video per day, give coins (attained by logging in) to your fave videos, etc! It will definitely take a while haha.

15.) "Will I be able to watch other donghua like MDZS or SVSSS with my membership on Bilibili?"

No, those two donghuas are produced by TenCent, not Bilibili. You will need either a TenCent/WeTV account, or you can watch them on their YouTube channel (free).

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🔸FUNIMATION-RELATED FAQs🔸

1.) "Is Funimation's broadcast a simulcast?"

It is supposed to be, according to their initial announcements. They seem to be having some technical difficulties, but those may be resolved soon. I suggest keeping an eye on their twitter for updates if you are interested in watching through them!

2.) "Do I have to pay extra on my Funimation sub to watch TGCF?"

No, afaik, the regular $5.99 sub covers TGCF too.

---

I hope this helps out people further, so we can all have an easy time watching the donghua! And please do support it legally! 🙏

If you still need help, feel free to send in an ask!

[love101imagines]

One thing left to try

request: Could you pls write a fic with sinan? Using prompts 13,15,22,29 and 34 from the first list. I thought of maybe At a party y/n needs Sinan's help, so that Burak stops chasing her, so he pretends to be her partner, when Burak doesn't leave her alone, Sinan starts a fight. Thanks!

tag list: @peraltwolf @zaynlikfalls @wwafangirld

prompts used: 13. Don't look at me like that. 15. Just pretend to be my date. 22. You're not my friend anymore, remember? 29. Where did you get those bruises? 34. I'm used to it, don't worry.

"Işik, are you sure you're ready for a high school party?" You asked slowly, your arm wrapped around the blonde girl who held tightly her purse.

Eda next to you chuckled. "You're ready for alcohol? And for people making out with each other? And the smell of cigarettes everywhere?"

"There's nothing to worry about." Isik cut you both off shaking her head. "I'm only here because Osman asked us to come. And nothing bad will happen, they're our classmates."

Eda shrugged. "I'm here for the free booze."

You rolled your eyes with a smile, fixing a bit your skirt while you reached the house where the party was taking place.

"Should we wait for the guys?" You asked glancing at all the cars that were parked in almost the whole block, internally hoping to see one boy in particular.

You stood on your tiptoes trying to recognize any of them, already knowing that Kerem was coming with Osman with his own car.

"Nah." Eda brushed it off. "I bet Sinan isn't even coming, and it's already crowded inside."

You were slightly discouraged. You didn’t want one boy to control your whole mood without truly knowing, but you couldn’t avoid feeling that way towards him. You two had been friends for a while before you got closer with the whole expulsion thing. The girls already knew about your feelings for Sinan, but you wouldn’t risk ruining one of your friendships only because of a crush.

"Are you sure?" Işik asked a bit worried, but you were already opening the door without knocking.

You three were instantly greeted by loud music and people everywhere. The walls seemed to shake from the heavy bass blasting through the speakers, hurting your ears but you tried not to mind.

You turned to Işik with a smile. "So? What do you think?"

She opened her mouth to speak, with no words coming out as she looked around the house. You chuckled lightly. "Anyway, I'll grab something to drink. What do you want?"

"A soda, please."

"Beer. We'll...walk around until the boys show up, okay?" Eda said over the music.

You nodded before walking away, greeting a few people and trying not to bump into the many couples who were shoved up against the wall making out or the kids who were too drunk to properly walk.

“You’re no fun, (Y/N).” Eda complained with a huff.

You only took a sip of your soda. "I'm plenty of fun, in fact, I...oh shit."

Before you could notice that Işik was waving at the guys who had just arrived to come over at your place near the kitchen counter, you had already left the room trying not to run into Burak.

You two had talked a few times because you were in the same school year, but since Eda had turned him down, he seemed to be keen on going on a date with you. You wanted to avoid confrontation the best you could, already knowing that when the whole thing with Eda happened, he hadn't reacted well.

So, that was the reason why you were making your way between the crowd of people with one hand covering your can of soda trying to hide from him. The house was crowded, with almost your whole school inside. You weren't even sure whose birthday it was, only receiving the invitation from Osman who had a few extra, giving the rest to your other friends.

Once you found herself outside in the small garden, you allowed yourself to catch a breath. There were only a few people mingling outside, but a hand on your upper back startled you.

You cursed under your breath, almost spilling your soda. "God, you scared me."

Sinan rolled his eyes with an already opened beer in his hand which didn't surprise you. "You okay? I saw you storm off."

You shrugged. "Yeah, I'm fine. I thought you wouldn't come."

He furrowed his brows slightly. "Why?"

You shrugged, tugging on his arm so you could sit down on the steps leading to the garden, trying your best that your skirt wouldn't ride up. "You hate high school parties."

"What's to like from annoying music and people I can't stand being around?" He asked sarcastically making you chuckle. "I was dreading this, but Osman needed us here." He concluded before taking a long sip of his beer.

You nodded. "Yeah, I can't believe we convinced Işik. But it's not that bad."

He glanced at you, absentmindedly fumbling with his hands while you continued sipping on your soda. "You look nice."

It was no secret around your friends how much Sinan adored you. You were the only one he never snapped at unless he was really angry, but he usually kept his emotions at bay. Everybody noticed how his mood changed around you. Everybody but you, not thinking much about how he always seemed to have a faint smile when you were in the same room or how he truly appreciated that you went out of your way to talk to him at least once every day.

You gave him a side smile. "Thanks." You eyed him up and down, wearing his usual grey shirt, black jeans, and combat boots. "You don't look that bad either."

After a few minutes passed and it started to get cold, he nudged you. "Wanna go back inside?"

"Um..." You trailed off even if you truly wanted to go back with the rest. "I'm fine, you go ahead if you want. I'll catch up with you."

He furrowed his brows. "Are you sure you're fine? You seemed pretty upset before." He doubted for a moment while you looked down at the floor. "If you want to leave, we..."

"No." You interrupted shaking your head.

You certainly didn't want to leave. But you knew you couldn't avoid Burak all night, and if you ran into him you would end up snapping at him.

An idea popped into your head, remembering how Burak had left Eda alone when Kerem faked being his boyfriend. "I mean...can you do me a favor?"

It was risky to ask him, but Kerem was already dating Eda and Osman was busy with his business, the main reason why you all were there. And it was only a simple favor, you could hide your true feelings like you had the past weeks.

He shrugged, taking another sip of his beer. "What?"

You gave him a grin trying to convince him to follow your plan. "Can you pretend to be my boyfriend? Please."

He almost choked on his beer, coughing a bit while looking at you with utter confusion. "What the hell?"

"Burak has been annoying me all week and this is the only way he'll leave me alone. Please, Sinan. Just pretend to be my date." You continued, giving him your softest puppy eyes.

He scoffed, looking away to avoid your look. "Don't look at me like that." He mumbled.

"Like what?" You played dumb, continuing looking at him like that so he'd give in.

"Like you've never broken a plate in your whole life." He replied sarcastically. "Why don't you just tell him to fuck off?"

You rolled your eyes. "I've already tried to. Come on, it's only one night. I would do the same for you." You practically begged him.

You expected him to get up and leave, saying that your plan was crazy and didn't have any probability of going right. However, after a few seconds, he sighed and gulped down most of his beer, leaving the empty can next to him. "Fine."

While you smiled and mentally cheered, he turned to you. "What do you need me to do?"

"Improvise." You said like it was obvious. "Just um, flirt with me and act like I'm your girlfriend. It can't be that hard."

Noticing that he still seemed unsure of everything and wasn't really sure of what to do, you continued. "Look, from now on, we aren't friends, we're in a relationship. So, just act like I’d believe everything and lie to me."

He thought about it for a few seconds before nodding, getting up from his spot, and extending his hand to help you get up. When Sinan's fingers skimmed over your wrist gently, you rolled your eyes and grabbed his hand tightly.

"You're not my friend anymore, remember?" You teased before dragging him inside the house.

The stares you two received while walking straight to the kitchen were enough to tell you that you had made the right decision. Out of the corner of your eye, you could see Burak staring at you intensely ignoring whatever one of his friends was blabbering on about to him. You could feel that Sinan also noticed that, pulling you closer to him by wrapping an arm around your waist. You almost shivered once you felt his cold hand on the small spot of skin just above your skirt, but you didn't think much about the sparks that ignited at the skin on skin contact.

Once you two reached the kitchen, you grabbed a beer and a soda, handing the alcohol beverage to Sinan who quickly downed it while you sat on the counter, your hands still intertwined.

Eda quickly joined you two. "There you are!" She grinned at you, clearly already a bit tipsy. "Aw, you're holding hands, did you tell him?" She gushed to you, loud enough for him to hear.

You chuckled awkwardly, disconnecting your hands while covering the girl's mouth. "Yes, I told him about Burak." You gritted out, already sure that your cheeks had to be red. "You're already wasted, don't do anything I wouldn’t do." You grinned playfully at the boy, receiving a timid smile from him.

"So you guys are dating now." Eda continued leaning against the counter, a smirk on her face. "That's cool."

"I'll take care of her." Sinan offered, already annoyed with her.

After a few seconds, you nodded, leaving your spot on the counter once you noticed Işik nearby, your eyes lighting up. "Işik, let's dance!"

You weren't sure how many hours had passed that you had been dancing with Kerem and Osman, but after a while, your legs ached from twirling around Işik, so you walked away from the living room to the hallway where there weren't many people.

"(Y/N)!"

A voice calling you out made you stop dead in your tracks, turning around with a fake smile plastered on your face even if you were internally gagging.

"Burak, I didn't see you before." You greeted him, continuing to walk towards the kitchen.

He just followed you, making you roll your eyes when he wasn't staring at you. "You look pretty."

"Mhm." Was all you replied, looking through the fridge to find at least a bottle of water, already knowing that if you left Sinan and Eda alone they had downed at least five more beers each one.

"Here, let me help you with that." He offered as you struggled with four bottles of water.

"I'm fine." You cut him off with confidence. "I've got it, and my friends and boyfriend are waiting for me, so..." You trailed off.

Taking to your advantage the fact that he was too shocked to say anything else, you managed to escape, making a beeline to were your friends were standing in a corner of the room.

"Here you go." You said handing a bottle to Işik, Eda, and Sinan. "I figured it would help if you have a migraine." You explained standing next to Sinan.

He nodded, a faint smile on his face as you wrapped an arm around his shoulders. Osman left after saying he had to do something, and you soon found yourself alone with the boy again after Işik said she was going to the bathroom and Eda dragged Kerem to dance with her.

You sipped absentmindedly on your water. "Thanks for everything, I owe you one."

He shrugged, clearly not bothered by it but you weren't sure if it was because of his emotionless attitude or something else.

Once you'd finished your water, you turned to him. "Come, let's dance."

"No, (Y/N)." He refused immediately shaking his head.

"Sinan, I'm not going to leave you here alone." You persisted, continuing to pull him by his hand.

He wouldn't budge. "I'm already here, dancing crosses the line."

"You can't only come and drink everything that's alcohol."

"I..."

"Not much of a boyfriend, huh?"

Burak's teasing voice made you stop abruptly, glancing at Sinan who only looked at him with a hard stare.

"I'm just saying, I wouldn't leave (Y/N) alone if she was my girl." He continued.

"Well, she isn't yours." Sinan snapped, trying to appear unbothered by him but with a scowl on his face.

You tugged in his arm. "Sinan, let's leave."

"What are you even doing here?" Burak asked sarcastically. "You hate everybody, I'm sure she convinced you to come. Too bad, who knows what could happen to her here..."

You knew those were just empty threats, so while you scoffed and tried to tug him to leave, Sinan only pushed you behind him slightly, making you release your grip on his arm.

"If you even touch a hair on her head I..." Sinan began with his hands balled into a fist.

"Sinan, please. Just cut it off." You tried to argue.

Nevertheless, you already knew he wouldn't listen. He was furious, his jaw clenched, stormy eyes and sending daggers to the boy in front of him.

Burak only snickered. “Tell me, I want to know.” He taunted, getting right into his face. “What are you going to do about it? You’re just going to let me continue flirting with her?”

You rolled your eyes. “Fuck off.”

“Maybe if you relied more on mental strength instead of muscular strength you would have gotten a chance.” Sinan shot back sarcastically.

Burak shoved him, lifting his fist in the air but before he could even punch him, Sinan tackled him into the ground to punch him. You froze, watching how Sinan’s fist hit Burak over and over again until Burak punched his side, making him lose his breath before he pulled Sinan in a chokehold.

“Stop! Stop it, you guys, stop it!” You tried to move towards them to break them apart, stopping once a pair of arms wrapped around her waist.

“Stay out of it,” Osman advised, his eyes staring sullenly at the fight. “You’re only going to get yourself hurt. Işik, hold her.” He called out.

“What’s going on?” The girl asked confused once Osman handed you to her, going straight at the fight to stop it. “Oh my God.” She mumbled, shock on her eyes.

Kerem and Osman broke them apart along with a few other guys. You only could gasp in surprise once you saw Sinan and his bruised cheekbone, along with the cut on his eyebrow.

“Hey, hey, come here. You’re fine.” You tried to comfort him, looping an arm around his shoulders just like Osman.

You couldn’t help but furrow your brows at how he seemed to wince while you tried to get out of the house as fast as possible, not wanting another fight to happen.

You wouldn’t let him out of your sight, so you continued with your arm wrapped around his shoulders, him not complaining but supporting almost his whole body on you.

“We’re not going to fit in.” Işik pointed out once you reached Kerem’s car.

You knew Sinan would just brush it off and say he was fine, but you wouldn’t allow him. “It’s fine, I um...we’ll take a taxi and stop by a pharmacy first. You should go first.”

Before anyone could complain, Eda, still drunk, chuckled. “You two are so cute together.”

You nodded absentmindedly, trying your best to hold Sinan who seemed to still be catching his breath. “Yeah, go and sleep in the back of the car. Take care of her.”

“We will. You take care of him.” Kerem said before getting into the car.

“Bye.”

“See ya!”

“Goodnight.”

Once they left, you sighed, a bit nervous that the boy hadn’t said a word yet. “Come, let’s sit there.”

You slowly walked towards a bench in front of a park. After a few minutes, you reappeared with a bottle of rubbing alcohol and some cotton balls after rushing to a nearby pharmacy.

“Give me your hands.” Your ordered, feeling something break inside of you while you scanned his knuckles with fresh blood and open wounds scattered across them. “Fuck.”

He only pursed his lips, his brows slightly furrowed as he tried not to show how he truly felt until he couldn’t anymore. While you continued cleaning his knuckles, a shaky cough made you stop.

You raised your brow at him. “Lift your shirt.”

He didn’t have any intentions of doing so, his eyes still staring ahead of him before he coughed again. “Sinan, do it.” You ordered again tugging at the end of his shirt.

The red bruises scattered along his abdomen made your breath hitch in the back of your throat, instantly holding your still cold bottle of water against them. “Where did you get those bruises? Oh my God.”

“When Osman held you and Burak pinned me to the ground.” He explained under your worried gaze. “I’m fine, what about you?”

You scoffed. “You aren’t fine. Drink this.”

You handed him your bottle of water, sighing once you noticed the trace of blood coming from his eyebrow, cleaning with your thumb before it reached his cheekbone.

“I’m sorry you got into a fight because of me.” You said softly, your fingers lingering on the bruise on his cheek.

You cupped his face, Sinan instantly leaning into your touch. He had thought about it before, how it would feel to be this close to you, and now it was happening.

“How was I supposed to keep calm when he said that about you?” He asked, his jaw clenching again as he remembered Burak’s words.

You brushed it off, your thumb stroking his cheek to try to comfort him with a simple gesture. “I’m used to it, don’t worry. I don’t care anymore about what he says, he’s an asshole.”

“God, don’t say that.” He furrowed his brows before swallowing. “You shouldn’t be treated like that by anyone.”

His whole body was tense and his breathing was heavy, so you tried to make him listen to you so he would forget about everything. “Hey, just...focus on me, okay?”

He used all his willpower to nod, to not go right at the house again, and continue beating Burak up. "How was the party? Everything you expected?"

"No." You bluntly stated making him chuckle. "What about you? Did you have the awful time you expected?"

He gave you a side smile. "Not really, but I'm never doing it again."

"What? Faking to be my boyfriend?" You teased rubbing your eyes, too tired to care about your mascara probably now smudged.

When he didn't answer and only stared at you with a different expression you decided to take a leap of faith.

You slowly leaned forward, closing the gap between the two you. You wrapped your arms around his neck, feeling your heart on fire while his mind raced, in disbelief that you were actually kissing him. One of his hands found the back of your head, fingers twisting in your hair as he pushed you closer to him, deepening the kiss. You felt his other hand on your lower back, just where your shirt ended.

After a few seconds, you broke apart first, your forehead leaning against his while you held his hand.

"Oh." You chuckled noticing how Sinan's poor lips were now covered in the red lipstick you were wearing and a bit swollen.

You used your thumb to clean it off, almost not noticing the small smile on his face.

"Let's get a taxi, shouldn't we?" He asked.

You nodded and stood up, the boy's arm around your waist keeping you closer to him. With your heart still beating more than usual, you couldn't help but wonder what would have happened if he had followed his instincts and hadn't come to the party.

[gaycey-sketchit]

(Gary anon) Hopefully with enough people pushing back, we could see changes for the better. (And it's not help by people making you feel guilt for not caring enough about this issues when a giant portion of us are not in positions to do much; or currently dealing with other things) I think as long as everyone [above at least 13 or 16] are in agreement on and understands WHAT'S being uploaded, family videos are probably okay to an extent. BUT, because it's family, it's a VERY

.

(Part 2) slippery slope cause the minute someone wants out, the whole thing can end up being a mess and lead to strained relationships. (And there is such a thing as oversharing; which can put some people's safety, especially minors, at risk. Witnessed a lot troubling stuff out of these channels; to where CPS are unsurprisingly called) I'm not either, playing with fire when you're call in people with weapons. (*nods* Good, good.) There's Giratina too, who didn't get an arc yet but I doubt it'll

(Part 3) again for Gen 5; if retouched a bit) I think AZ's Floette was meant to be obtained since there's data for it, but it never got released. So maybe there was an extended story there. (I don't doubt we'll get added content from either games, maybe Snap too. It's whether, when it does it end? It is throughout the year until maybe the Fall. Or we're gonna attempt speedrun mode and still have a few months to advertise the new gen. I think safest they can do is go for another Jan. release.

(Part 4) Welp, news just came out that the "lost" Leon roadtrip episode will be the 100th Journeys episode; but it seems to be only Ash with him. Based on scans so far. (Which means, Ash vs Marnie will indeed will just be one episode. Am not looking forward to the fandom's reactions to the results. Right now, I'm not feeling good for Gengar) With that, maybe we can FINALLY see a new OP next month since that was the only thing not shown from the current one yet.

Yeah, hopefully.

It's exhausting. Like... our minds and hearts were not made to process so much bad news. A lot of deeply compassionate and empathetic people who could make great activists are just burning themselves out completely over it and yeah, the guilt-tripping from some isn't helping. (And like, some people seem to assume if you're not posting about current issues you don't care? Like, I care deeply about a lot of things but I'm on Tumblr for memes and fandom stuff and making friends, and I try to keep the content of my blogs mostly low-stress so I and the people who follow me can have a place to rest.)

Fair, but the extent to which minors can consent to things in general is iffy (which is why a contract signed by a minor isn't legally binding), and with how much power parents have over their kids it's easy to feel pressured to go along with stuff whether or not you want to just to avoid conflict or punishment. And yeah, there is... a lot of oversharing on those channels. And it doesn’t surprise me that CPS has had to get involved in some situations.

Anyway. Yeah, Giratina!

Oh yeah, AZ’s Floette. Whenever XY gets remade maybe we’ll get to see what the plan was there.

I’m thinking about how in 2020 we got two sets of DLC for SwSh--one in the summer and one in the fall. (And last year Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity did something similar.) Something like that is about what I expect here! But I guess only time will tell.

Oh yeah. Unfortunate in some regards, but I saw the episode summary on Twitter last night and it sounds like it’ll be fun. I fell in love with Leon when I was playing SwSh.

Yeah, new OP has to be soon. It’s been over a year now. It’s going to be so hype when that finally happens, we’ve waited so long.