#amara has her own blog

[crystallizedtwilight]

Do the names LSBs parents gave them have any significance or meaning/reason they chosen those in particular?

ohhh !! One of my friends just asked me this !! (copies and pastes)

Lock -  Eli (ee · lai)

Lock’s parents named him Eli because they were stealth hunters in the deep forests that stalked wild game, often by using trees to climb or hide. They valued things like swiftness, accuracy, and skill. Eli (meaning “elevated” or “high”) was a favorable name because, if one has the higher ground during a fight or hunt, they are at a favorable advantage. Fittingly, Lock has a natural tendency to climb to high perches—trees, roofs, anything elevated that helps him feel safe, hidden, and like he has the upper hand. He lives up to his name.

Shock - Amaranth; also called Amara or Amy by coven (a · mur · anth)

Shock’s coven bestowed her the most prosperous name they could think of. As witches, her coven saw the immense value in herbs and flowers as they were able to make powerful potions from them. They named her Amaranth (meaning “the unfading flower”). They hoped, with such a powerful name, she would grow up strong and resilient. Additionally, the nicknames they occasionally shortened Amaranth to— Amara (“everlasting”) and Amy (“beloved”)—also expressed their hope that Shock would live a full life always knowing she was loved.

Barrel - Brayden (bray · den)

Barrel was named Brayden (meaning “broad" or "broad valley”) because it is a name that references the Earth. Since ghouls make their life by digging into the earth, burrowing into grave soil, descending into tombs and re-making small "valleys" of their own, they thought it was fitting for Barrel to have a sturdy name that connected him to the earth somehow. To dig a "broad valley" meant he would would prosper as a hearty, nourished ghoul.

[walk-to-gallows]

Mary was too much. The show spent to much time in the past they didn’t need to drag Mary back into their lives for MORE FAMILY DRAMA. There were so many options for Amara to grant Dean some wish or some desire that he wanted there was no reason to dig into his rat nest of a life and drag Mary from heaven as some gift to Dean. To me that was as bad as 11 or 12 seasons later we had to put up with meeting Sam’s imaginary friend. They didn’t ring us dry of Sam pity enough? Do we need something more weird from his life to ring the tears from us?

While I didn’t sit at home hating or blogging about her in some crazy negative way. I think I only made one post about her right after she appeared but I was happy to see her go.

Yeah, you're getting the full rant; Mary was a reclamation.

Like most horror media, Supernatural has a bad habit of fridging its female characters to give its male characters a fighting reason. Up until her resurrection, Mary was only present in the past, she was just a memory rather than a person, the perfect mother, perfect wife, perfect woman because she was dead.

Of course killing off a family member is a customary trick of the trade, it’s strong stuff for motivating your characters, but when your pilot opens with not one, but two female characters being killed for the sake of their male partners arc, there’s a problem there.

Mary’s return is important for many reasons. Her presence parallels Jack’s, the ghost of the past and the hope of the future, the undead and the newly born. She represents autonomy being given to women in horror, like Kelly Kline, these women aren’t just hills for men to die on anymore.

Mary is the beginning, she’s the start of it all. Her return was hardly heralded in a way that made us expect her, but she’s not a random prize. Mary’s death has been the catalyst of Sam and Dean’s entire life, and as they move on to the future, there’s a need for them to reconcile with the past, especially with Jack’s introduction.

From this ask and your next, I'm guessing you're much more a fan of Dean than Sam, and I won't lie, my preferences lie that way too, but I fear that you're letting your biases cloud your judgement.

Mary's return has much more to do with Dean than Sam, Dean was four when Mary died, he actually remembers her. Her return spurs a whole new arc for him where he has to come to terms with her absence in his life and the glorified version of her that he grew up with as a result of his young age, Dean feels abandoned by his mother both in the past and in the present.

And once again, with Jack's introduction and Dean's role as one of his parents, there's more for Dean to move through. Dean was incredibly involved in Sam's childhood, and yet now when he's an adult he find himself often emotionally unavailable like his own father was once.

Not to mention, Sam and Dean's lives have been tightly intertwined beyond what is normal for most siblings, they've spent years apart, but they've often only had each other to rely on. Most things that concern one of them will also concern the other. Yes, Mary's return gives Sam a chance to know his mother the way he was never able to, but it also gives Dean the opportunity to reconcile with his childhood, to say things to his mother he never thought he'd be able to say, to resolve a part of his life that has been an open, festering wound.

Dean lost his father to hunting, it's something he struggles to reconcile with (which is why 14x13 is so important but that's another rant). It's part of the reason he's defensive of Sam's criticism of John, because Dean remembers a time when John was attentive and gentle, and not the soldier he regressed to.

In season 1, we see Sam learn that side of John, the part of him that put away money into a college fund for his boys, that hoped for a future free from bloodshed, and he comes to terms with the loss of a father he had never gotten the chance to know.

This is what Dean gets with Mary, the chance to know his mother as she was, as a person and an individual. The resentment that Sam carried for John is comparable to that which Dean carries for Mary, it's a one-dimensional view of their parents, anger at what they weren't just as much as what they were. Dean blames Mary for his childhood, and while I don't think the culpability rests on her, it is that unresolved anger that brings his mother back to him.

Mary gets a second chance at life, Dean gets a second chance with his mother, and he brings her back to him. I really find it difficult to understand how so many people dismiss this plot line, because not only does it parallel the way Sam and Dean slowly lost their father to the hunting life, it is a direct result of Dean's lingering anger and grief that makes Mary their mother again. She avoids them, throws herself back into hunting because it's what's familiar in this world that has aged beyond her, and the guilt of seeing her boys, who have grown despite her absence, is too much to bear. Dean forces her past this guilt, he allows her to forgive herself because he hates her for being gone, but he loves her too, and her knowing that her absence now counts as much as her absence then is what changes everything.

The character writing in supernatural is something that can be so good, I hate to see the hate-train on Mary coming at full speed because she didn't live up to audience expectations (never mind that those expectations were based on snapshots of her from her grieving husband and sons, or the younger and "innocent" version of her). Anyway, you're free to dislike Mary, at the end of the day my opinion is my opinion and yours is your own, but the fact of the matter is that Mary's return was incredibly significant for the overall plot, and Dean's character arc and growth.

[litnerdwrites]

Clandestine Affairs - Lust X OC (I)

A/N: Omg, the first part of Clandestine Affairs is finally done! I'm so excited to share this with you all. I'll try to update weekly, but if I can't, I'll see if I can get some Euphemia content out. Other than that, I have a Gluttony x Reader oneshot I'm working on to, but I don't know when I'd upload that. Tomorrow, I'll set up a masterlist that'll be pinned to my blog. If you have theories as to where this will go before we reach the point my Prince of Sin week work ended on, or want to be tagged in this series, comment and let me know. Finally, if you want some spoilers as to where this series is going, Speak Now is a oneshot for Lust with this same OC that I did for Prince of Sin week, and this is just fleshing out his and Amara's story a little, so feel free go check that out, along with @princeofsinweek for a bunch of KOTW content.

WC: 1887

TW: Implied suicidal behaviour, implied abuse, implied suicide attempt, implied suicide attempt by FMC.

Speak Now Chapter 1 (You are here) Chapter 2

She wasn’t sure how long she’d sat there, eyes locked on the crashing waves below, but not really looking at them. 

“Get out of my sight,” 

The sudden wind at her back had her lurching forward. Or was it a hand? Was the voice in her head? She couldn’t tell anymore. 

SMASH

The waves sound like shattering glass.

Or does the glass shattering sound like the waves crashing? 

Which one could she hear?

“I’m sorry, Mara. My poor, sweet Amara,”

Another crash draws her attention to the raging sea. If it were a little louder, could it, perhaps, it could drown out the rend of her heart when those words played.

It would be so easy to just… lean forward. 

Just a little. 

Chunks of earth crumble beneath her knees, where her legs dangle off the side, and disappear into the inky waters below. 

That could be her. 

It would be easy. 

Just lean forward. 

Grasp a piece of the sweet oblivion she longed for. 

Easy.

It’s right there.

Peace.

Oblivion.  

So, so easy. 

Just-

Something rushed through her, like rapids flowing through her veins, sudden enough to draw the air from her lungs, and has her lurching back. Pulled from her trance, her eyes searched around for the source of the feeling. Fishing boats, and personal ships bobbed in the distance, some hanging lanterns to mark their location from shore, while shadows danced below the surface. 

Dragging her gaze away, she scanned the area, searching for what might have been the cause of the sudden rush she’d felt. At a glance, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. The night’s pearl had long since taken her place, surrounded by glittering diamonds, forming constellations in the sky. Stalls and vendors had been packed away, with every respectable merchant having gone home to their family, likely tucked into bed, or in front of a warm fire with a drink by now. Her heart clenched at the thought, just as a chilly breeze swept over her.

Suddenly, she longed for that warmth. A warm fire, or a blanket- anything to keep the cold at bay, and warm her chilled body. 

As her eyes searched, they caught on a light coming from behind a rock formation at the edge of the nearby beach. With slow, cautious steps, she walked along the edge of the cliff, until she could see a mass of figures surrounding a large bonfire. They were chatting, eating, and dancing to the most hypnotic music she’d ever heard.

For a moment, she wondered where the music was coming from, as she didn’t see anyone with instruments amongst or near the mass. The thought was quickly banished from her head with another gust of wind, and suddenly it was all she could think of, to get closer to that warmth.

It was such a familiar occurrence that she didn’t even struggle when she felt those dark thoughts and fatigue pulling her under, leaving her as a passenger in her own body, letting it run through the motions as she sank further into the darkness. Perhaps that was why she didn’t notice as her legs began to move, or that little voice inside, screaming at her to stop. 

Instead, she let her feet carry her towards the bonfire.

Entranced, she made her way down the side of the cliff, vaguely registering the way her limbs trembled. She wondered if it was from anticipation or the cold. The thought passed quickly though, and before long, she found herself right in front of the pyre, where the flames danced against the backdrop of night. But, something was different. When she turned her head, giving the area a slow once over, she realised; The crowd was gone. 

Instead, there was only a single person, dancing around the bonfire to an indiscernible source of music. That should’ve bothered her more.

The sculptures that nobles commissioned from renowned artisans to line their overly elaborate halls must’ve been inspired by the man. He wore a silver suit, though seemed to have either discarded or, more likely, forgone a shirt or vest.

His skin was gold, hair dark, and his eyes were the colour of charcoal. Yet, somehow, she got the impression that if she met his gaze, she’d feel like she was falling into a different kind of abyss than the one she was used to. This one would be darkened by desire, though be it to disrobe or begin worshiping, she couldn’t tell.   

“If you like what you see, then why not join?” The man’s voice jolted her from her thoughts. 

He had been across the beach a moment ago, but now he stood right in front of her. 

Too close. 

His face was too close, as he bent at the waist to examine her. It was only then, when she felt that flaming circlet flicker against her forehead that she realised how… Wrong- no. Not wrong. Off? How... Strange? No. How… Unsettling it was. 

“Doesn’t your head get hot during the summer?”

The man’s eyes widened, and he had jerked back, clearly surprised by the question.

No sooner had the words left her mouth, Amara dropped her head and slapped a hand over her mouth. She tucked her chin against her collarbone, stiffening, before taking two steps back. Every second she felt his gaze on her, searching her, as if peeling back every layer to find the deepest secrets, locked in her heart. 

With every ounce of strength left, she pulled her hands from her mouth, willing- forcing herself to stutter an apology. 

“I- I’m so-” 

“There are no summers where I’m from,” 

Amara’s head snapped up, but she kept her hands close to her mouth, ready to raise them to her face at a moments’ notice. The man was grinning casually, amusement clear in his voice. 

She blinked up at him, hands still pressed to her mouth, but eyes wide and curious. He seemed so jovial when she first saw him, then surprised at her outburst, but that was nothing new, and then, even without seeing his face, she felt like he’d instantly whittled down, through every layer of her until he found her secrets laid bare. Now, he seemed like any other bored noble’s son, seeking attention. 

“Should you not be more concerned by it?” he cocked his head to the side.

Amara dropped her hands from her mouth, and blinked up at him again. After a few moments under his expectant gaze, answered with a shrug. 

“I have… Seen stranger. I am a witch, after all.”

His brows shot up. 

“You seem remarkably comfortable sharing that, when all it would take is the wrong person overhearing for you to be condemned,” 

“You obviously aren’t human, and even if you were, then I guess that’s my mistake,” 

His eyes narrowed, as he circled her. 

Amara didn’t bother tracking his movements. 

Silence stretched on for what felt like hours, though was likely only minutes.

“Do you know who I am, Stella Stregah?” he finally asked, coming back to stand in front of her. 

“A Malvagi,” she stated, matter of factly, if not somewhat dully, before looking behind him, amd asking hesitantly, “Why are you having a bonfire all alone?” 

“Would you care to join me?” was the only response he gave, head cocked to the side.

“Why?”

“Dance with me, and perhaps you’ll find out,” the demon bowed at the waist, offering his hand to her. Amara eyed him, and his grin widened, before he asked, “What could you have to lose?”

Her eyes widened at his words. 

“My life,” she blurted. 

“But you don’t care about that,”

“What?” 

His eyes moved to the cliff she was sitting on, before she wandered down here, and she followed his gaze. 

“If you cared about your life, then why would you allow yourself to lean so close to the edge?” he asks. 

“Heights don’t scare me,” Amara responds, struggling to keep her voice even.  

The man simply grins wider, before shrugging, as if pocketing the information, and holding out his hand again.

“If a height like that doesn’t frighten you, surely a mere dance won’t shake you either, no?” 

She narrowed her eyes, intent on rejecting it, as his words replayed in her mind. 

What did she have to lose? If she died, no one could say she took the coward’s way out. If she didn’t, what would be the harm? Perhaps it would be fun? Perhaps it could breathe some life into her for the first time in what felt like forever. Perhaps she’ll be able to escape her torments for a night. What could be the harm?

With a sigh, she took the man’s waiting hand. 

Music filled her ear again, though there was no discernible source, as the demon guided her through the steps. Amara let him, keeping up with the steps expertly. She followed his lead, though never once made eye contact with the demon. 

“Which one of the seven are you?” 

“The best looking and most well endowed, naturally,” he grins. Amara’s expression deadpans. This seems to amuse him more. “I go by many names, Stregah, but you may call me Lust,” 

She narrowed her eyes on him. Taking a moment to examine herself, and thinking over their interactions thus far. It didn’t seem like he used his powers on her.

“Have you tried to influence me with your sin, yet?” 

Lust cocks his head to the side, examining her, as if considering if he should tell her or not. She leveled him with an impatient glare in response, though it only seemed to amuse him. Still, it seemed to convince him.

“For a time,” Lust admits, and Amara narrows her eyes. 

“What?”

“You have a lot of questions, don’t you, little witch. Careful, each answer will cost you,” he warns. 

“I…See,” 

“Tell me, why were you so close to the edge, Stella Stregah?” 

Lust raised a brow, examining the way her face scrunched. 

“That’s not your concern, Malvagi.” Amara snapped, moving to pull away.

He chuckled, yanking her into a spin, before she could, then caught her, and pushed her into a dip, hand cupping the thigh of her raised leg. His face was mere inches from hers.

“No need to be so wrathful, little witch. Let go of your troubles for a night. Release those pent up feelings and give in to your desires,”  

“I’m not sleeping with you,” she told him, point blank. 

“I never said you should. Not unless those are your desires,” Lust shrugged, not rising from the dip, letting his hand trail down her leg, “Dance. Drink,” she glanced behind him to see a table of drinks and food she hadn’t noticed before, and on the other side, comfortable looking chairs were laid out around the bonfire, “Rest. Talk. Sing. Give into whatever brings your pleasure,” 

“You mean to feed your sin-" Amara's thoughts came to a halt, her eyes narrowed, "If you are the Prince of Lust, why not encourage, or influence more..."  

"Why not influence more carnal or debaucherous forms of pleasure?" He finished, lips quirked into a wicked grin as his thumb began to trace circles into her thigh. "There are many forms of pleasure, Stregah, and fucking is merely one of them. Is happiness itself not a part of pleasure and satisfaction?" 

Amara's breath hitched, as heat trailed in his wake, spreading from her thigh to her core. 

"I- I suppose," she muttered, as she fought the warmth of his touch, as well as any indication of the sort of effect he had on her. 

The last thing she needed was for The Prince of Lust to assume she had any desire to be in any way... intimate... with him. Just the thought alone had blood rushing to her cheeks and her stomach in knots. 

“Can you deny that giving in to pleasure, forgetting what ails you, even for a single night, would be bad?” Lust's brow cocked as he posed the question, snapping Amara from her thoughts.

It wouldn’t. If it wasn't sex of any kind, then she knew it wouldn’t.

“Surely you have plenty of people available to feed your sin,” 

“Yet, at this time, I make this offer to you, and you alone," 

Amara’s eyes narrowed. 

“If I give into pleasure, you won’t use your sin on me?” 

“Not unless you ask, little witch,” 

“Then it’s a deal. Just for tonight.” 

“Just for tonight.” 

Just for tonight. What could possibly go wrong, in just a night?

[malka-lisitsa]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Send me ❤ on anon and I’ll compliment someone at random!

@hargrove is THE BILLY HARGROVE. Excellent headcanons, amazing flawless portrayal. The dynamic with Max is amazing and so fun to read. Love the relationship between him and Katherine.

@ofcrossrcads Probably one of my fave Oc's hands down. The Demon is such an interesting character on their own, plus the Mun is adorable <333

@touchedbydestiny My fave Nadia, hands down, but on top of that, she plays a lot of other fun characters that don't get as much attention. If you're looking for Amara the bitch has been hiding in this blog the whole time. Genuine article- Qetzia come get'er. (And give me my damn immortality)

@langdhon !! THE MICHAEL LANGDON YALL. But not only is Ava a flawless Langdon, she's recently brought her perfection to Crowley and Cain over on @hellroyalty and Im so excited to see all the interactions.

@floripire is a very well fleshed out and interesting legacies OC and honestly I love Flori.

[ash-and-books]

Rating: 5/5

Book Blurb:

Cursebreaker Marlow Briggs must deal with the aftermath of her fake romance with one of the most powerful nobles inthe illustrious—and deadly—Evergarden society, all while uncovering the mystery behind her mother's disappearance.

The city of Caraza sits poised on the edge of chaos—and cursebreaker Marlow Briggs is at the center of a deadly struggle for power. In the tragic aftermath of the Vale-Falcrest wedding, Marlow is spurned by Adrius, who refuses to speak to her and publicly vows to find a noble wife before the year is out. Despite her heartbreak, Marlow is still intent on breaking his compulsion curse. To do so, she’ll have to play loving daughter to the man who cast it—the man who’s hellbent on reshaping Caraza in his own image, no matter the cost.

But the closer she gets to her long-lost father, the more Marlow starts to question if he’s really the villain she’s made him out to be. As the lines between enemy and ally blur, Marlow must decide if she’s willing to sacrifice her heart’s desire to save a city that wants her dead. This edge-of-your-seat finale is perfect for fans of Veronica Mars, These Violent Delights, and Chain of Iron.

Review:

A murder to fix, a forbidden romance, and a city on the brink of war... can things really work out for a curse breaker and her ex-fake boyfriend turned ex-fiance turned secret lover? Picking up where the first book left off, cursebreaker Marlow Briggs has to deal with the aftermath of her fake romance with one of the most powerful nobles in the Evergarden society... who just happens to be the same guy she's in love with and who was forced to murder his father by a curse her own father put on him... oops. Marlow covered for Adrius and said she was the one to stab his father, when in fact he was cursed and forced to do so by her own recently discovered father, a powerful figure in the noble society... who now wants to show her off to society and literally create a spell to take over and control the entire society. To make matters more complicated Adrius's sister Amara is threatening to have Marlow killed if he does to find a wife and he has to stop speaking or seeing Marlow forever... but the feelings between Marlow and Adrius are finally unleashed and they can't stay away from one another despite everything working against them. Marlow and Adrius must find a way to not only find a way to be together but to stop Marlow's father, find Adrius's dad, and find a way to acquit Marlow from the crime her father committed. Nobody said being in love would be easy but for a cursebreaker like Marlow, she's going to have to find a way to break the deadliest curse of all and survive it. I actually loved this book so much, I was so surprised by how much fun I had with this one and it definitely picked up from the first book. The second book was such a fun way to end the series and I really appreciated the growth in the relationship between Marlow and Adrius. The mystery was fun and with such high stakes the story felt so fast moving and interesting. I would definitely recommend this series to fans of second chance romance, fantasy, and action packed stories!

Release Date: June 18, 2024

Publication/Blog: Ash and Books (ash-and-books.tumblr.com)

*Thanks Netgalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group | Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) for sending me an arc in exchange for an honest review*

[multi-royalty]

🌵, 🌼 & 🪵

TIME FOR SOME POSITIVITY * send a symbol and i'll recommend my favorite rp blogs!

send 🌵 and i'll recommend a canon rp blog

@kingmakercastle - Lucien Castle is so safe in your hands and I'm lucky to have you to interact with FOR REAL because I was wanting a Lucien for a while and then you popped up and he's just perfect

@langdhon - I have to mention Ava's Michael Langdon, I love everything about him and I'm so glad to have her as an Rp partner and friend!

send 🌼 and i'll recommend a blog with beautiful writing

@hybrid-royalty - honestly he has Klaus captured so well I'm convinced Joseph is locked up in his basement. Chefs kiss.

@causestragedy - I LOVE LOVE their portrayal of Amara, and I really hope they come back soon because yall deserve to see the way they write

send 🪵 and i'll say a positive thing about my own blog

you guys never fail to spin this back so I have to be nice to myself LOL , but I feel like I have a good few of my characters down pretty well at this point??? is that okay to say.. idk .. i just love Caroline and Madison with my whole being

[semper-legens]

99. The Wolf Den, by Elodie Harper

Owned?: No, library Page count: 452 My summary: Amara is the lowest of the low. A slave and a prostitute at one of Pompeii's most notorious brothels, she's had to fight to stay alive and stay ahead of the game. Buying her freedom is an impossibility. So if Amara ever wants to return to the blissful past where she lived and breathed free, she's going to need all her wits about her. My rating: 4/5 My commentary:

This was another random find on the shelves at work. My entry to being interested in history generally, and historical fiction specifically, was through Ancient Rome - long-time readers of this blog might remember me talking about the Roman Mysteries series, something I adored as a kid and still hold a lot of affection for. I haven't, however, read much fiction about ancient Rome meant for adults. But when this book crossed my path, I knew I wanted to check it out. The author wanted to shed light onto an aspect of Ancient Roman (or more accurately, ancient Pompeiian) society that is not spoken of as often - not just the lot of the woman, the slave, or the sex worker, but someone who is all three. And that makes this a really interesting novel in and of itself. I really enjoyed it, to the point that I tracked down the other two books in this trilogy and I'm gonna read them next!

I'm gonna talk about sex work, sexual slavery, rape, and other forms of sexual assault and harassment under the cut, so please be warned.

Our protagonist is Amara, a headstrong young woman who was born free, having been sold when her father died and her mother could no longer keep the family afloat. She was originally a concubine, but was bought by a pimp and became a sex worker. She's shrewd but struggles with despair, recognising that she's never going to be able to buy herself out of slavery and that she will need to be careful if she wants to survive. Amara consistently butts against her own morality. She takes loans from women for her predatory loan shark pimp, knowing he's exploiting them but needing her cut of the take. She makes opportunities for herself and the other girls, knowing she's putting them into danger. And that's the push and pull of Amara's character, she's trying to harden her heart to get the best she can out of life, but hates herself for it. It's a very realistic depiction of a person forced to the absolute edge by her circumstances, forced into making choices that she may or may not be able to live with just so that she can survive another day. It's notable that, as cold as Amara can be at times, your sympathy remains with her. Even when she's doing her most ruthless actions, you understand why and how she's been forced to this point. It's a tragedy, not a villain narrative, and the story understands and balances that really well.

Ancient Rome was not a nice place to live. Particularly as a slave. One thing I really admired about this book was its depiction of how slavery might have worked from the experience of an enslaved person. Amara is a commodity, her body is not her own, and neither is her life. Even when she is legally freed, she's still beholden to a patron as a concubine, hiding any true emotions she might have about him in order to play the fragile bird he wants to see. The girls are very matter-of-fact about how awful their lot in life is. We have Dido, a beautiful girl born free who doesn't take well to her life; Britannia, a fiery Briton who resists and rebels; Cassia, a woman worn down by years of forced sex work and losing a child that she kills herself; Paris, son of an enslaved sex worker who is forced into the same trade; Victoria, who is almost gaslit into loving Felix, their pimp. Even Felix has had a hard life. Also the son of an enslaved sex worker, he was abused as a child and young man - but that doesn't justify treating the girls the same way. But that's normalised in their society. Sexual abuse and harassment of enslaved women was normal and encouraged for freeborn men; the same for younger enslaved men. I think this book does a really good job of showing that, in a lot of these cases and particularly under Ancient Roman thinking, sexual assault like this isn't really about sex, it's about power. Men use their power over Amara constantly - they rape her, they force her into situations where she is powerless, they hurt and abuse her. She ends up having to attach herself to a rich patron in order to have a hope of getting away - and she's lucky he's not violent or abusive himself. But still. There's a man, Menander; another Greek like Amara, he's enslaved by a potter, and he and Amara strike up a genuine romance. Of sorts. They can barely ever meet and exchange notes via graffiti, and see each other maybe one every few months. And in the end, Amara is faced with a choice when Menander approaches her at a festival with a beautiful, thoughtful gift…in front of her new patron, Rufus. She scorns Menander and breaks the gift. And it breaks her heart! But Menander can't offer her freedom, can't offer her a way out of the Wolf Den, can't offer her anything but love. But Amara needs safety. So she makes her choice. It's a tragedy, but this is the lack of autonomy that enslaved people had in this era. And it's shown very organically and engagingly here.

The only real thing I have to criticise here is the writing style. Sometimes it's a little too plain or obvious - stating what a character is feeling or thinking directly when showing it might have been more effective, that sort of thing. It's not a dealbreaker for me, I still enjoyed the book, but it's something I kept noticing. The narrative also makes the choice not to actually depict any of the sex, which is fair enough as a choice (I get not wanting to over-eroticise or sexualise the abuse and exploitation that Amara and the others at the brothel experience) but does sometimes ring a little hollow in the specific choices made. Like, there's a few instances where Amara is mentioned as using her 'tricks', but the fact that we never learn what they are or what's actually going on…it just makes the author sound like she doesn't know what that might have been, and is just awkwardly papering over the cracks? It's awkward, I think that's the word I mean. Again, not a dealbreaker, and I totally understand the motivation there, it's just a little clunky in the wider context of the narrative.

Next, not too far away in subject, although a leap into the future. It's 1710 - welcome to Mother Clap's.

[prosegalaxy]

"Amara's Journey: Discovering Friendship and Magic in Eldareth" This is the summary of your work so far: The AI has created a title for the blog post based on the given outline. The title encapsulates the main theme of Amara's journey, her discovery of friendship and magic, and the setting of the magical town of Eldareth.

The sun had barely risen over the horizon when the first rays of light touched the worn and weathered sign that hung above the dusty, old bookshop. It was here, in this unassuming store filled with tales from all corners of the world, that our unlikely heroes would come together on their epic quest. As they stepped through the door, a bell rang out, announcing their arrival to the mysterious shopkeeper who watched them from his perch behind the counter. "Ah, I see you have brought me the key," he whispered, eyes twinkling as he examined the magical artifact each of them held. "You are ready for your journey." "What journey?" asked one of the heroes, a young woman with fiery red hair and a heart full of bravery. "A quest to find a long-lost family member," replied the shopkeeper, his voice low so as not to alert anyone lurking in the shadows. "You see, each of you has been chosen for this mission because of your unique abilities." He pointed to their artifacts - a sword that could cleave through time, a mirror that reflected one's deepest fears, and a book that held the secrets of the universe. As they set out on their journey, they quickly discovered that their newfound powers were not without their challenges. They faced dark forests filled with monstrous beasts, barren wastelands where thirst could turn friends into enemies, and treacherous mountains that tested even the strongest of hearts. Along the way, they formed alliances with creatures both magical and mundane, who offered aid in exchange for promises of protection or payment in gold. As they delved deeper into their quest, the heroes found themselves at odds with an ancient and malevolent force, one that sought to control the artifacts and bend them to its will. Conflict raged between our heroes and this mysterious foe, whose true nature remained hidden until the very climax of their journey. And so it was, as they stood on the precipice of victory or defeat, that the long-lost family member revealed himself - a figure whose presence changed the dynamics of the story and sent ripples through the hearts of our heroes. As they faced the final confrontation, they found strength in their newfound connection and fought with all their might. But as the dust settled and the smoke cleared, the outcome remained unclear. The future of the world rested in the hands of these unlikely heroes, whose fates hung in the balance like a single word on the edge of a page - waiting to be read or left unturned. And so, with ambiguous ending, the story continued to unfold within the minds of those who had dared to dream it. In an enchanting world where magic and technology coexist, a group of unlikely heroes found themselves united by fate. They embarked on a journey to retrieve the legendary magical artifacts that could save their world from the impending darkness. As they traveled through treacherous landscapes, they discovered their strengths and formed unbreakable bonds. At a quaint old bookshop, our heroes crossed paths for the first time. The creaky door announced their arrival as they entered, each with their own purpose in mind. A mysterious shopkeeper appeared, his eyes twinkling with secrets. He handed them ancient scrolls containing the location of the magical artifacts and whispered words of encouragement. The group ventured forth into the unknown, facing perilous challenges at every turn. They encountered mythical creatures, solved riddles that echoed through the ages, and battled dark forces. Along their journey, they formed alliances with enigmatic beings who shared their knowledge and power to aid them in their quest. The climax of their adventure arrived when a long-lost family member revealed himself as the mastermind behind the impending darkness. The heroes found themselves torn between loyalty and duty, grappling with the truth of their heritage. In that moment, they realized the true meaning of heroism – standing together, despite their differences. As the final battle commenced, the world watched in anticipation. When the dust settled, the outcome remained uncertain. The heroes stood victorious, but at what cost? With the world hanging in the balance and a future full of possibilities, the story left readers to ponder – were they truly prepared for the journey ahead? The sun had barely risen, casting a warm golden glow over the cobblestone streets of the quaint village. A cool breeze rustled through the trees, carrying whispers of autumn leaves. In the heart of the village stood an old bookshop, its wooden sign creaking gently in the wind. Inside, the air was thick with the scent of aged parchment and musty tomes. A mysterious figure dressed in a long black cloak and a wide-brimmed hat stood behind the counter, hands tucked deep within the folds of his garments. The figure's face remained hidden, shrouded in darkness. A group of unlikely heroes entered the shop, drawn by a shared sense of unease and a burning desire for adventure. They were a motley crew: a bard with a silver tongue, a knight with a tarnished reputation, an alchemist with a penchant for explosive experiments, and a thief with eyes as sharp as a hawk's. The mysterious figure produced three enchanted artifacts from beneath the counter: a staff that could control the elements, a sword with a heart of flame, and a necklace that could summon the winds. As the heroes reached out to claim their newfound powers, the shopkeeper warned them of an impending threat, one that could only be vanquished by working together. The heroes embarked on a treacherous journey, facing trials that tested their courage, wit, and strength. Along the way, they encountered allies who aided them in their quest - a wise healer with knowledge of ancient magic, a fierce warrior with unmatched prowess, and a cunning rogue who could navigate the most dangerous terrain. Together, they confronted the malevolent force that threatened to engulf the world in darkness, only to discover that the heart of the enemy was far more sinister than they had anticipated. As the final battle raged, a long-lost family member revealed himself, his presence shaking the heroes to their very core. In the end, the heroes stood victorious, but the true nature of their victory remained uncertain. The old bookshop's sign creaked once more as they left, and the mysterious figure disappeared into the shadows, leaving them to ponder what lay ahead in the next chapter of their lives. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the quaint village, the air was thick with anticipation. It was in this idyllic setting that our unlikely heroes would find themselves drawn together for an epic quest. The first, a timid librarian named Amelia, had always been fascinated by ancient texts and forgotten tomes. She found herself irresistibly attracted to the mysterious Bookshop of Eldritch Wonders, its creaking door inviting her inside. As she stepped across the threshold, Amelia was greeted by a shadowy figure who introduced himself as Alaric, a collector of magical artifacts. With a knowing smile, he presented her with a peculiar wooden staff that seemed to hum with untapped power. Simultaneously, from another part of the shop, a young man named Caden emerged, clutching an ornate medallion that pulsed with an otherworldly energy. The two heroes were suddenly confronted by a fearsome creature, summoned by a malevolent force to thwart their quest. But united by fate and determination, they fought side by side, their newfound powers amplifying one another. With the help of an enigmatic rogue named Neria, who joined their cause after overhearing their conversation at the bookshop, they forged a plan to confront the dark force that threatened their world. As they journeyed deeper into the heart of darkness, the heroes faced insurmountable challenges and experienced moments of camaraderie. But when they least expected it, a long-lost family member revealed himself, casting doubt on everything they thought they knew about themselves and their mission. The tale concludes with our heroes standing at the edge of an uncertain future, the fate of the magical world in their hands. Once upon a time, in a quaint old bookshop nestled in the heart of a bustling city, three unlikely heroes found themselves drawn together by fate. The shop, filled with dusty tomes and mystical trinkets, seemed to be the perfect place for these strangers to cross paths. The first hero was an introverted librarian named Amelia, who had spent her entire life immersed in ancient texts. She was joined by a retired warrior named Thorne, whose legendary bravery and strength were now overshadowed by his advancing age. Lastly, there was the enigmatic and eccentric inventor, Eadric, who had dedicated his life to creating magical gadgets and contraptions. As they browsed the shelves, an ancient shopkeeper appeared, offering them three mysterious artifacts. Each object seemed to choose its new owner, as if guided by an unseen force. Amelia received a beautifully crafted book, Thorne was given a worn leather pouch, and Eadric found himself in possession of a shimmering crystal. Without any explanation or context, the heroes left the shop, their newfound artifacts in hand. As they ventured forth into the unknown, they quickly realized that their ordinary lives were about to take a fantastical turn. They faced challenges and hardships, from battling monstrous creatures to crossing treacherous terrain. Through their shared trials, the heroes formed a bond, an alliance forged by necessity and strengthened by friendship. As they journeyed together, they encountered allies who joined their cause, each with their own unique talents and abilities. Together, they began to unravel the mystery of the artifacts, discovering that they were key to confronting a malevolent force threatening the balance of their world. As the final showdown approached, the heroes found themselves facing a long-lost family member, whose true nature was as dark and sinister as the malevolent force itself. Just when all hope seemed lost, a twist revealed that this family member was not entirely evil, but rather, under a powerful enchantment. In the end, the heroes managed to break the curse, vanquishing the darkness that had plagued their world for far too long. The story of their epic quest remained etched in the annals of history, leaving readers to wonder about the fates of these unlikely heroes and what new adventures awaited them. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting an orange glow over the quaint village. The old bookshop, nestled in the heart of town, was the last shop left on the cobblestone street. Its wooden sign creaked and groaned under the weight of its paint, the letters barely legible. Inside, a mysterious figure stood, his back to the door. As the bell chimed upon entrance, he turned to reveal an old man with piercing blue eyes. "Ah, you've come," he said softly, his voice rich with wisdom. "You must choose one of these books to begin your journey." The protagonist, a young woman named Lila, hesitated before selecting a tattered leather-bound volume from the shelf. The old man handed it to her, and as she turned the pages, she found herself transported into the world within. Lila's adventure led her through enchanted forests filled with magical creatures and treacherous mountains that tested her resolve. She met allies along the way: a brave knight named Sir Edric, an elusive thief called Faye, and a wise mage named Elara. Together, they faced countless challenges, from battling monstrous beasts to deciphering riddles in ancient tombs. As their quest progressed, the heroes uncovered a plot hatched by a malevolent force determined to control their world. Time and again, they defeated its minions, drawing closer to its heart. But just when they thought victory was within reach, a shocking twist revealed itself: Lila's long-lost family member, the very source of the darkness, stood before them. In that moment, the lines between good and evil blurred, leaving Lila questioning her purpose and the true nature of her quest. The story ends with the heroes standing on the precipice of a new chapter, their future uncertain and filled with possibilities. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the cobblestone streets of the old city. Amidst the dusty shelves and musty air of the bookshop, a mysterious figure stirred. The clock tower struck seven, marking the beginning of an adventure that would change their lives forever. As the door creaked open, a gust of wind sent ancient parchments fluttering to the ground. The newcomer, a young woman named Elara, stepped into the dimly lit shop, drawn by the promise of forgotten knowledge. She browsed the rows of dusty tomes, her eyes wide with wonder. Suddenly, a voice behind her sent shivers down her spine. "Elara, is it not?" The shopkeeper, a tall figure cloaked in shadows, approached her. His eyes seemed to see right through her. "You seek something, do you not?" "I-I'm just looking for... an old book," she stammered, clutching her coat closer. The shopkeeper smiled enigmatically. "That may be true, but there is more to your search than meets the eye." He reached into a hidden drawer and pulled out two magical artifacts - a gleaming silver ring and a tarnished bronze amulet. "These may aid you in your quest, but beware, for they come with great responsibility." As Elara touched the objects, a surge of energy coursed through her veins. She knew then that she was destined for something greater than herself. With newfound determination, she set off into the night, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. Through trials and tribulations, Elara would form alliances with unlikely allies, battle fearsome creatures, and confront a malevolent force that threatened to consume her world. But when she least expected it, a long-lost family member revealed himself, forcing her to question everything she thought she knew about herself and her past. And so, the adventure continued, leaving readers to ponder the heroes' future in an ambiguous twist of fate. United in purpose, they battled the darkness together, their bond growing stronger with each passing day. As the final confrontation approached, whispers of an impending twist echoed through the land. In that moment, the heroes realized that the true power lay within themselves – the magic of love and family. And so, with hearts filled with hope, they faced the darkness one last time. The battle raged on, leaving their fate hanging in the balance... The sun dipped low in the sky as the day came to a close, casting long shadows across the cobblestone streets of the quaint village. At the heart of the village stood an old, wooden bookshop with a creaky sign that read "The Enchanted Page." Inside, the air was filled with the sweet scent of aged parchment and the hushed whispers of ancient tomes. A man in his early thirties, with unkempt brown hair and a furrowed brow, stepped inside, seeking refuge from the encroaching darkness. He had heard tales of this bookshop before, whispered stories passed down through generations, but never believed them to be true until now. "Good evening," greeted the shopkeeper, an old man with deep-set eyes that seemed to hold the secrets of countless worlds. "Looking for something?" The young man hesitated, his gaze shifting between the dusty shelves and the mysterious owner. "I heard... tales about this place. Magic, you could say." "Ah, yes," the shopkeeper nodded, reaching under the counter to pull out a velvet pouch. He handed it to the man, who carefully opened it. Inside lay a small, ornate box with intricate engravings. "This is a talisman that will guide you on your journey." As the man left the shop, he could feel the power of the talisman humming in his pocket. He knew the adventure had only just begun. Days turned into weeks, and the young man found himself faced with challenges he never imagined. But through it all, he formed a bond with a fierce warrior woman who joined him on his quest. Together, they overcame obstacles and forged alliances with creatures both mythical and magical. Finally, they stood before the lair of the malevolent force that had plagued their world. With determination in their eyes and the talisman guiding them, they confronted the darkness. But as they faced the final battle, a twist revealed itself: a long-lost family member, standing beside them, wielding a power greater than anything they had encountered before. As the dust settled and the shadows retreated, the young man found himself back at the old bookshop. The shopkeeper's eyes bore into his as he whispered, "Your journey has only just begun." With that, the door creaked shut behind him, leaving him to ponder the heroes' fate and wonder what mysteries lay ahead. The sun had just begun to set, casting an amber glow over the quaint, cobblestone streets of the town. Amidst the labyrinthine alleys, there stood a quaint old bookshop, its wooden sign creaking gently in the breeze. The scent of aged paper and leather filled the air as John pushed open the door, reveling in the sight of towering bookshelves that seemed to stretch up into the heavens. As he wandered through the narrow aisles, he overheard an eerie whisper. Turning the corner, he found himself face-to-face with a mysterious old man who handed him two artifacts, each adorned with ancient symbols. "These will help you in your journey," the shopkeeper said cryptically before disappearing into the shadows. John held them close, feeling an unfamiliar warmth radiating from them. In the following days, he encountered numerous challenges - treacherous terrain, vicious creatures, and unyielding riddles. Yet with each obstacle, he found himself growing stronger, more confident. Along the way, he met other seekers, forming an unlikely alliance with a skilled archer named Lila and a cunning rogue called Rylan. Together, they faced an ever-growing darkness that seemed to consume the land. As their journey led them to the heart of the malevolent force, they were shocked to find a long-lost family member, the enigmatic Lord Silas, at its center. In a moment of truth, John confronted him, only to discover that his newfound power had been bestowed by a higher being, meant to protect the realm from the imminent threat. With Lila and Rylan at his side, they faced their greatest challenge - a battle against Lord Silas, who revealed himself as a pawn in a much larger game. In the end, the heroes emerged victorious, but with an unsettling revelation: the power they wielded was not theirs to control. As they stood amidst the wreckage of their foes, a final twist unfolded - Lord Silas had been a mirage, and the true adversary lay hidden within their own hearts. The story ended with a cliffhanger, leaving readers pondering the heroes' next move in the face of an unknown future. In an old, cobwebbed bookshop, a group of friends stumbles upon a mysterious shopkeeper who offers them three magical artifacts. Each item has a unique ability: one grants invisibility, another heals wounds, and the third allows its wielder to communicate with animals. As they explore the town, they face challenges such as thieves in dark alleys and deceitful merchants. By forming alliances with local tavern keepers and healers, they overcome these obstacles and grow closer as a group. While investigating rumors of a malevolent force threatening the town, they confront an evil sorcerer who seeks to harness the artifacts' power for his own nefarious purposes. In the heat of battle, one of the friends discovers that he is related to the sorcerer, setting up a dramatic twist and leaving readers wondering about their newfound connection. In the quaint, cobweb-filled corners of an ancient bookshop, two strangers met for the first time. Their eyes locked as they browsed the dusty shelves, and in that moment, they shared a knowing glance. The mysterious shopkeeper appeared, his gaze fixed on the magical artifacts tucked away in the store's depths. With a wave of his hand, he bestowed upon them an enchanted amulet and a wise tome, imbued with powers beyond their understanding. As they embarked on their journey, the strangers faced seemingly insurmountable challenges, but their growing bond and newfound powers spurred them onward. They crossed paths with a motley crew of adventurers, forming alliances that would shape their fate. Together, they braved treacherous landscapes and confronted malevolent forces, only to discover the true enemy had been hidden in plain sight. In the climax of their quest, the strangers uncovered a shocking truth: the long-lost heir to a powerful legacy had been among them all along, his identity shrouded by deceit and betrayal. With newfound purpose, they joined forces with their long-lost family member, and the stage was set for an epic confrontation. But as the dust settled and the battle concluded, the heroes found themselves faced with a twisted revelation that left them questioning everything they knew about their world and themselves. In the heart of the city, a cobblestone-paved street led to an old bookshop that had been there for ages. The shop's door creaked as it opened, welcoming the aroma of ancient pages and mysterious secrets within. Inside, the dimly lit room was filled with dusty bookshelves that stretched from floor to ceiling, housing countless forgotten stories. A young man named James stepped through the threshold, intrigued by the allure of this hidden treasure trove. As he browsed the shelves, he caught a glimpse of an old man behind the counter, his eyes twinkling with wisdom and mischief. The mysterious shopkeeper eyed James with interest before speaking in a voice that echoed through the shadows, "You seek something, boy?" James hesitated, then confessed, "I'm searching for answers to an ancient prophecy that has plagued my family for generations." The old man smiled knowingly and reached beneath the counter, pulling out two magical artifacts - a worn amulet and a tattered scroll. He handed them over with a warning, "These items will guide you on your journey, but beware of the challenges that lie ahead." With the artifacts in hand, James ventured forth into the unknown. Along his path, he formed alliances with other seekers - each with their own unique abilities and motivations. Together, they faced trials that tested their strength, courage, and wit, forging bonds of friendship that would last a lifetime. Finally, the group confronted the malevolent force at the heart of their quest - an ancient sorcerer who sought to rule the world through dark magic. In a thrilling battle, James and his companions defeated the sorcerer, only to discover a twist - a long-lost family member revealed himself as the true enemy, driven mad by the pursuit of power. In the aftermath, the heroes stood together, wondering what future awaited them. As they left the old bookshop behind, it seemed their adventure had only just begun. In an ancient, dusty old bookshop, nestled in the heart of the bustling city, two strangers met by chance. The air was thick with the scent of worn leather and musty parchment, as if the books themselves breathed. As they browsed through the shelves, a mysterious shopkeeper appeared from behind a towering stack of tomes. He offered them each a magical artifact, claiming they were destined to face great challenges together. With newfound alliances forged, the pair ventured into the unknown, facing trials and tribulations that tested their resolve. They fought against dark forces, encountered enigmatic beings, and solved riddles that would have stumped even the brightest minds. Yet, as they journeyed deeper into the labyrinth of adversity, they began to uncover clues about a malevolent force far more sinister than anything they had ever faced before. As the duo confronted this darkness head-on, the lines between friend and foe blurred. Alliances shifted like sand beneath their feet, leaving them questioning who they could trust. Just as they thought they had vanquished the evil that plagued their world, a shocking twist unfolded: a long-lost family member revealed himself, casting doubt on their very identities. In the end, the heroes stood amidst the ruins of their former selves, their hearts heavy with the weight of their newfound knowledge. The story concluded in a veil of ambiguity, leaving readers to ponder the heroes' future and the implications of their discoveries. At the heart of a bustling, magical town, there stood an old bookshop known as "The Enchanted Quill." The moment one entered its creaking wooden door, they were enveloped in the sweet scent of ancient parchment and dusty spines. This was no ordinary shop; it housed countless treasures from different realms. On a rainy day, a young woman named Amara sought refuge within these hallowed walls. The bell above the door chimed as she entered, catching the attention of the enigmatic shopkeeper, Aldric. He was an old man with piercing blue eyes and a silver beard that seemed to twinkle like stardust. "Good afternoon," he greeted her warmly, his voice like the echoes of time itself. "What brings you to this place of wonders?" Amara hesitated before replying, "I am searching for something... magical." With a knowing smile, Aldric led her to a dusty corner where two mysterious objects lay - a golden locket and a staff adorned with emeralds. "These are rare artifacts," he whispered, his voice carrying the weight of ancient secrets. "Take them and embark on your journey." As Amara held the artifacts, she felt an electric surge coursing through her veins. With newfound power and purpose, she ventured into a land filled with challenges and alliances. Alongside her, she found a brave warrior named Kael, whose heart was as fierce as his sword. Together, they traversed treacherous landscapes, faced the shadows of malevolent forces, and fought for the hearts of those lost in darkness. One fateful day, as Amara and Kael stood victorious over their latest adversary, a figure emerged from the shadows. It was a man with long silver hair and eyes that mirrored the night sky - their long-lost family member, Aiden. The revelation sent shivers down their spines, for in that moment, they realized the true meaning of home, belonging, and the power of destiny entwined. The story ends as Amara, Kael, and Aiden stand at the edge of an uncertain future, knowing that more adventures await them in the world beyond the old bookshop's door. Amara hesitated for a moment before reaching out and grasping the golden locket. "This is more than I bargained for," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "It's time for you to embark on your journey, dear Amara," Aldric replied, his eyes twinkling with wisdom and warmth. "The golden locket and the staff will guide you in times of need." Kael, a brave warrior who had been observing their conversation from the corner of the shop, stepped forward and extended his hand. "I'll join you on this journey," he said firmly. "We have a common enemy to defeat, and together we can overcome any challenge." As they left the Enchanted Quill behind, Amara could feel the locket pulsating gently against her chest. The staff in Kael's hands seemed to vibrate with power. They ventured into a land filled with challenges and alliances, facing malevolent forces at every turn. One day, they encountered a mysterious figure who seemed both friend and foe. "Are you lost, my dear friends?" the stranger asked, his voice echoing through the dark forest. "You must choose wisely which path to take." "I trust you," Amara replied, her heart pounding with anticipation. "Lead us where you will." The stranger revealed himself as Aiden, their long-lost family member, and guided them to the heart of the malevolent forces' stronghold. As they fought together against their common enemies, a bond formed between Amara, Kael, and Aiden, strengthening their resolve and determination. In the end, they faced an uncertain future, but they knew that their love and loyalty for one another would carry them through any obstacle. And so, the journey continued, with the golden locket and staff by their side, guiding them towards new adventures and untold mysteries. As Amara and Aldric discussed the artifact, they were joined by Kael, a brave warrior with a heart as fierce as his sword. Together, they formed a plan to search for the hidden treasure and save their people from the encroaching darkness. Once upon a time in the magical town of Willowbrook, there was an old bookshop called "The Enchanted Quill." The shop's owner, Aldric, had been collecting rare and enchanting books for years. One day, a young woman named Amara entered the store, seeking a special book that would lead her to her destiny. As she browsed the shelves, she felt a sudden gust of wind, and a mysterious old tome fell into her hands. Amara opened the book, and it seemed to come alive in her hands. A voice echoed through the store, saying, "You are the chosen one, Amara. Your journey begins now." With that, a dazzling light enveloped Amara, and she found herself standing outside the shop with a newfound sense of purpose. She felt an urgent need to embark on a perilous quest. As Amara wandered through the town, she encountered Kael, a brave warrior who had been searching for the same mysterious book. The two formed an alliance and set off together, determined to unravel the mystery and fulfill their destinies. Along the way, they met Aiden, a wise old man who joined them on their journey. Together, Amara, Kael, and Aiden faced many challenges, from treacherous mountains to dark forests filled with malevolent creatures. They formed alliances with mythical beings and overcame seemingly insurmountable odds. Through it all, they grew closer, bound by their shared experiences and mutual loyalty. As the sun began to set on the horizon, the trio found themselves at the entrance of a vast and mysterious cavern. With a mixture of trepidation and excitement, Amara took a deep breath and stepped forward. She knew that whatever lay ahead, they would face it together. And so, their uncertain future stretched before them, but they were united by love and loyalty. The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the small town of Willowbrook. Amara stood outside the old bookshop, "The Enchanted Quill," as she had done countless times before, taking in the peacefulness that surrounded her. Little did she know, today would be different. A gust of wind blew a tattered piece of parchment into her hands. As she unfurled it, a message appeared: "Seek the Enchanted Quill and its guardian, Aldric. Together you must find Kael and stop the darkness from taking over." Amara's heart raced with newfound purpose. Entering the bookshop, she was greeted by Aldric's warm smile. "Amara, you have finally come," he said, his voice filled with wonder. "I am glad to see you. The time has come for us to embark on a journey to find Kael and protect our world from the darkness." They set off through the forest, guided by the whispers of ancient trees and the fluttering wings of mystical creatures. Along their path, they encountered Kael, a brave warrior whose heart was as strong as his sword arm. Together, they formed an unbreakable bond, facing challenges that tested their courage and loyalty. One evening, as they rested by a crackling fire, Amara confided in Aldric: "I am afraid, Aldric. I fear we may not succeed." He squeezed her hand reassuringly. "Do not fear, my friend. We are stronger together than apart. Our love and loyalty will see us through the darkest moments." With their hearts entwined, they continued their journey, overcoming malevolent forces that sought to claim the Enchanted Quill and plunge the world into eternal darkness. In the end, they stood victorious, united by love and loyalty, facing an uncertain future but knowing that together, they could overcome any obstacle that lay ahead. The old bookshop, "The Enchanted Quill," was more than just a place for Amara to read and escape her mundane life. It held secrets that lay dormant in the pages of ancient books. One day, while browsing through the dusty shelves, she stumbled upon a tattered volume that seemed to call out to her. As she opened it, a mysterious figure named Aldric appeared. He revealed that he was a guardian of the magical town she had unknowingly entered and that only together could they prevent an evil force from taking over their world. Amara's heart raced as she listened to his tale. She hesitated but soon found herself agreeing to help him on this perilous journey. As they ventured deeper into the town, they encountered Kael, a brave warrior who had been searching for a way to protect his people from the encroaching darkness. His prowess with a sword and unwavering loyalty made him an invaluable ally. The trio faced many challenges as they sought to unite the magical town against the growing threat. They battled malevolent creatures, forged alliances with enigmatic beings, and discovered hidden talents within themselves. As their journey progressed, Amara found herself falling in love with Aldric, while Kael and Amara formed a bond of brotherhood. In the end, they stood together against the dark forces that sought to destroy their world. Though their victory was bittersweet, as it left them facing an uncertain future, their love and loyalty for one another remained unshaken. And so, with hearts full of hope and courage, they set out to rebuild their magical town, knowing that their newfound bond would guide them through whatever challenges lay ahead. The old bookshop, "The Enchanted Quill," was more than just a place for Amara to read and escape her mundane life. It held secrets that lay dormant in the pages of ancient books. One day, while browsing through the dusty shelves, she stumbled upon a tattered volume that seemed to call out to her. As she opened it, a mysterious figure named Aldric appeared. He revealed that he was a guardian of the magical town she had unknowingly entered and that only together could they prevent an evil force from taking over their world. Amara's heart raced as she listened to his tale. She hesitated but soon found herself agreeing to help him on this perilous journey. As they ventured deeper into the town, they encountered Kael, a brave warrior who had been searching for a way to protect his people from the encroaching darkness. His prowess with a sword and unwavering loyalty made him an invaluable ally. The trio faced many challenges as they sought to unite the magical town against the growing threat. They battled malevolent creatures, forged alliances with enigmatic beings, and discovered hidden talents within themselves. As their journey progressed, Amara found herself falling in love with Aldric, while Kael and Amara formed a bond of brotherhood. In the end, they stood together against the dark forces that sought to destroy their world. Though their victory was bittersweet, as it left them facing an uncertain future, their love and loyalty for one another remained unshaken. And so, with hearts full of hope and courage, they set out to rebuild their magical town, knowing that their newfound bond would guide them through whatever challenges lay ahead. Aldric, Amara, and Kael stood at the entrance of the ancient library, their eyes scanning the endless shelves filled with books. The air was thick with anticipation as they knew they had to find the key to defeating the darkness threatening their magical town. "Amara," Aldric began, his voice filled with urgency, "We must find a way to harness the power of these ancient books. They contain the knowledge we need to fight this evil." "But how do we know which book holds the answer?" Amara asked, her eyes searching for any clue within the shelves. Kael stepped forward, his voice resolute. "We must trust our instincts and follow the path that feels right. The power we seek will reveal itself to us when the time is right." As they delved deeper into the library, a soft whisper echoed through the dusty air. Amara felt a shiver run down her spine as she turned to face a mysterious figure standing in the shadows. "Amara," Aldric whispered, his voice filled with awe. "This is Lyrion, a powerful sorcerer who has been watching over our town for centuries. He holds the knowledge we seek." Lyrion stepped forward, his eyes glinting with wisdom. "I can teach you how to harness the power of these ancient texts, but it will require great sacrifice and dedication." The trio nodded in unison, their determination unwavering. They knew that the fate of their magical town rested on their shoulders, and they were ready to do whatever it took to protect their home. With Lyrion's guidance, they began to learn the secrets hidden within the library's walls, forging a bond of friendship and loyalty that would see them through the dark days ahead. As they faced the darkness together, Amara, Aldric, and Kael discovered that their love for one another was more powerful than any evil force could ever be. And with this newfound strength, they knew that they would emerge from the shadows victorious, ready to rebuild their magical town and face whatever challenges lay ahead. The Enchanted Quill, a haven for Amara's love of literature and escape from reality, held secrets beyond her imagination. She never expected to unravel an ancient prophecy that would bind her fate with Aldric and Kael, two strangers with extraordinary abilities. Together, they faced the malevolent forces threatening their magical town, finding strength in their alliances and love for one another. Amara's eyes widened as she realized the gravity of her discovery. "We have to do something," she whispered, her voice trembling with fear and determination. Aldric nodded solemnly. "Yes, we must find a way to protect our town and its inhabitants." Kael, ever the warrior, responded with a firm nod. "I will do whatever it takes to keep my people safe." As they continued their quest, Amara found herself more drawn to Aldric, his wisdom and courage inspiring her. One evening, as they sat around a crackling fire in their makeshift hideout, she couldn't help but confess her feelings. "Aldric, I...I don't know how to say this, but I think I love you." Aldric smiled gently, his eyes filled with warmth. "And I you, Amara. Our journey has brought us closer than I ever could have imagined." As they stood together beneath the stars, Kael watched them with a mix of admiration and envy. He, too, had grown to care deeply for Amara, and her connection with Aldric only deepened his longing for her friendship. One fateful night, as the trio rested in their safehouse, a shadow fell over them. They turned to see a monstrous figure looming above them, its malevolent gaze fixed on them. "You think you can stop me?" it sneered, its voice echoing through the room. "Yes," Amara declared, her voice steady despite her trembling heart. "We will stop you, no matter the cost." The battle was fierce and terrifying, but united by their love for each other and their town, they fought together. In the end, they vanquished the dark force, but not without a heavy price. As they stood amidst the ruins of their once-magical town, Amara clung to Aldric and Kael, her heart swelling with gratitude for their friendship and love. "We'll rebuild," she vowed, her voice determined. And together, hand in hand, they began the arduous task of healing their broken world, knowing that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them side by side. In the magical town of Eldareth, Amara found herself walking through a cobblestone street, her heart pounding with excitement. The air was filled with the scent of freshly baked bread and enchanting melodies from hidden musicians. She felt an inexplicable sense of belonging, as if she had been there before in another lifetime. As Amara wandered further into the town, she met Aldric, a kind-hearted sorcerer with a twinkle in his eye. They struck up a conversation and soon found themselves walking together towards the heart of Eldareth, where Kael, the wise healer, resided. Kael welcomed them into her tranquil garden, where they discussed the secrets of the world and the bonds that held it together. Aldric shared tales of his adventures, and Amara found herself captivated by the stories of love, loss, and redemption. They laughed together, as if old friends, and in that moment, she knew she had found a new family in these two extraordinary beings. In the magical town of Eldareth, Amara found herself surrounded by wonder and mystery. The moment she laid eyes on Aldric and Kael, she knew they shared a common destiny. As they strolled through the cobblestone streets, the air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the distant sound of laughter echoing from a nearby tavern. "Do you feel it?" Aldric asked, his eyes twinkling with curiosity. "The magic that courses through this town." Amara nodded, her heart pounding in anticipation. "I can't explain it," she whispered, "but I can sense it too." Kael grinned, his eyes shining with mischief. "Then let us explore and uncover the secrets of Eldareth together!" And so, the trio embarked on a journey that would forever change their lives. They climbed the towering mountain at the town's edge, its peak shrouded in a misty veil, and discovered an ancient ruin hidden within. The walls were adorned with intricate carvings depicting tales of long-lost heroes and mythical creatures. "I wonder what other wonders this magical town holds," Amara mused as they descended the mountain, her breath catching in her throat at the sight of a sparkling waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear pool below. Aldric took her hand, his eyes filled with warmth and understanding. "With you two by my side, I'm sure we'll uncover many more." As night fell, they gathered around a crackling fire, sharing stories of their pasts and the adventures that lay ahead. The bonds between them grew stronger, as did their connection to the enchanting world of Eldareth. And so, Amara, Aldric, and Kael formed an unbreakable family, bound by destiny, love, and the magic that permeated every corner of the magical town.

[mittensmorgul]

So for the most part, I outright reject the finale. But I do think, in light of the whole "Jimmy was supposed to be in the bar, and Dean was disappointed by that because his perfect heaven would have Cas in it" just makes me all the more convinced that the final episode was some kind of djinn dream. Like.... There's no other explanation in my opinion. If Dean's perfect heaven was supposed to have Cas, and he tragically gets faked out by Jimmy (????? Why tf would jimmy be there anyway), it just proves that it's not ACTUALLY heaven. That, along with he El Sol beer he's drinking is all the evidence I need. I think after 15x19, Dean and Sam got whammied by some monster, and are stuck in a hallucination, and that's what we're seeing. (My headcanon is that it's actually The Empty doing it, because it knows if it doesn't keep Dean and Sam occupied and spinning in circles, they'll invade the Empty to save Cas. So its trying to prevent that) :)

Hello, anon friendo! I am gonna start by offering the socially distanced version of a high five, because yeah... There is just so much to unpack here, and you provided such a succinct and all-encompassing series of statements to start from. Thank you!

*flings open array of questionable suitcases*

First off, Congrats on having rejected the finale. I know a lot of folks are still struggling with that one, for many reasons. But you have hit upon so many of the points I’ve been trying to make about the finale since it aired. I’d just like to start with some of the assumptions I’ve heard from folks about the finale that make it impossible for me to consider it fully honestly canon. Because so much about it just makes no goshdang sense... like... not at all...

One of the biggest issues I have surrounding the reception of the finale in parts of fandom is that it portrayed a “happy ending.” The show itself spent the entire final season telling us that a gravestone marked Winchester was not and never would be a happy ending (thank you Becky Rosen-- words I never thought I’d say, but honestly and most sincerely meant). Let’s break this down a bit.

Starting from the assumption that “heaven was fixed” so that characters could have true free will there, making it satisfying in any way that Dean died so young and never got to truly experience happiness during life, I would like anyone who has adopted this attitude to then explain Kansas the band. I mean... explain that in any satisfactory canon-compliant way. (hint: you can’t. it makes zero sense in canon, if heaven is truly reformed and “happy” with everyone in possession of free will.)

Which brings me to Misha’s comments about Jimmy being in the Roadhouse. Why, if heaven were truly fixed, would Jimmy ever in a bazillion years attend a party for Dean Winchester? If Heaven were truly a “happy” ending for Dean, why introduce this element of eternal tragedy and heartbreak to his heaven experience? Why taunt him with the eternal loss of Cas-- even if you don’t think he reciprocated Cas’s romantic feelings, he was canonically the best friend Dean ever had, and being forced to exist forever in a place where he had everyone else he ever cared for except for Cas? Is frankly horrific.

How the actual fuck is that a happy ending, in any sense of the word?

How is this the sort of heaven that Dean would’ve made for himself before it was “fixed?” At least in the memorex heaven, he could’ve lived in oblivious peace with Cas, even if it was always just his own memories and not ~actually Cas~. I honestly think that would’ve been happier than the abject tragedy of what we did get, and what we would’ve gotten had the original script played out.

All of this kind of makes me wonder if they ever even actually defeated Chuck. Like... it feels more like Dean got pulled into the Empty at that moment with Cas and Billie, and everything else after that point was the Empty’s endless experience of sorrow and despair we knew it subject its charges to. So that’s one potential for what could’ve actually happened. I mean, everything about the finale was sorrow and despair, you know? Dean didn’t even get to enjoy his pie at a pie festival because Sam smashed in in his face. How is any of it happy, in any way?

Because if that was actually heaven, there wasn’t actually any free will (because why tf would Kansas the band have chosen to put on that concert? why tf would Jimmy have been there, just to torment Dean with the taunt of Cas returning to him only to have that hope snatched away again? It’s cruel. It’s, in fact, a source of intense despair).

The djinn theory could also work, and I’ve read some excellent fix-it fic using that as a premise. But that doesn’t really explain what happened to Jack (and Amara, since she was in there with them) after hoovering up Chuck’s power, you know? I think the simplest explanations in canon are that Chuck actually won via the unified power of Light and Dark being transferred into Jack and effectively using him as a vessel. With Sam and Dean convinced they’d won, they effectively stopped resisting Chuck’s story for them, and using Jack’s understanding of humanity and the Winchesters specifically, Chuck finally was able to implement a version of his story that the Winchesters would just waltz into without thinking it was supernaturally influenced at all. Going bigger and bigger with monsters and cosmic troubles hadn’t worked, but going so small Sam and Dean would barely even notice the influence-- even with the incongruous reappearance of a vampire that appeared in their lives once, for like two whole minutes 15 years ago, and an unsolved case from the journal from more than 30 years ago that John had never even linked to vampires at all.

At this point, I need to mention that I’m watching 10.23 as I type this up. An episode in which we confront the Mark, along with Death, and Dean’s despair, where he learns a version of the truth (but by no means the full truth, or even accurate truth in some respects) about Chuck’s Story, Amara/The Darkness, etc. That would unfold more fully over the next five seasons. And what was the case Dean took in this episode? Vampires. LOLOL omg this show is nothing if not horrifically consistent, yes?

So because of this, I went haring off through my own blog looking for a post I made a long time ago about the symbolism of how various monsters are used on this show (because again, consistency). I got sidetracked by other posts in my monsters tag, including this from after 15.09 aired, which feels particularly awfully relevant. This was my reaction to Chuck’s Story he showed Sam in that episode, about what the future would look like should he successfully trap Chuck with a Mark, and which... yeah is basically exactly thematically consistent with what we saw in the finale, right down to a cheesy twist on vampires. Read the whole post right here, but this is the part that reached up and punched me in the face:

this is how Dean personally reacts when he loses Cas. We know how he reacts when he loses anyone else– think about what he did when Charlie died. He went on a murder rampage against the Stynes for killing her. When Mary died he broke some furniture and went full bore toward both resurrecting her and stopping Jack. But without Cas, Dean loses the will to fight. Sam has… always been different. He referenced Jess in 15.04 to remind us of how he was after she died in the pilot episode. Just like John, he picked up the revenge mission and ran with it. But for Dean, Cas is different. Without Cas… Dean gives up.

Because... Dean gave up. Sure, he and Sam weren’t overrun by vampires in the end. Chuck knew they’d never stop fighting the monsters, one way or another. The only way to get Dean to give up is something Chuck hadn’t quite figured out yet... maybe not until after 15.17, after confronting Cas in the hallway of the bunker, after absorbing Amara’s power, knowledge, and perspective on Dean.

Chuck needed Dean to give up, and honestly? Pushing Billie to clear him off the table and send him (and Cas, that pesky angel who never did what he was told) to the Empty would’ve been a direct way to deal with that... pretty much akin to having one sibling locked in a cage forever, yes?

Also, still looking through my monsters tag, I’m reminded of 14.15, and still cannot differentiate the version of Heaven in 15.20 from what was done to the people of that town. This... is not... paradise. This is actively what Dean has been insisting is the OPPOSITE of paradise since like… 4.22… No ending where Dean was a “Stepford bitch in paradise” ever had the possibility of being “happy,” at the core of things, and this “fixed” version of Heaven just doesn’t hold up to any degree of inspection. Something is seriously wrong here. https://mittensmorgul.tumblr.com/post/183465650390/so-can-we-talk-about-this-monster-of-the-week-for

And since I was unable to find the post I wrote who knows how long ago about Monsters and how they’re symbolically used on Supernatural to represent larger themes in the episode, I’ll just attempt to sum up what Vampires have been used for. Revenge. Vampires are always, in some way connected to themes of revenge.

(and hooray, I found at least a post adjacent to the one I’ve spent the last four hours trying to find... https://mittensmorgul.tumblr.com/post/187207052080/i-obviously-did-not-think-this-through, where I mention that shapeshifters are about revealing hidden truths (mostly about Dean since most shapeshifters are connected to Dean), zombies are about grief and the inability to move past it.)

So why... why at the end of their road is the monster that comes after them-- literally FOR REVENGE for something that had never been blamed on Sam or Dean to begin with, from season 1, directly connected to John’s revenge mission and the first time they learned about the Colt AND the first time they learned in canon that Vampires were even real... like... this feels very specifically like some kind of layers-of-meta levels of shade on them, you know? Vampires are for revenge, so what vengeance exactly is being visited upon Sam and Dean in this episode? If not Chuck’s entire story for them itself?

So yeah, 100% agree, something is incredibly rotten in the finale. And I am sick to effing death of people trying to convince us that anything about this was “good” or “happy” or “satisfying” in any way. Or even “how it was always supposed to end” with Dean dead bloody, as if the entire back half of the series hadn’t been suggesting that a true win was the subversion of all of Chuck’s story for them, and Dean finally being able to have his chosen family all alive, happy, and chilling on a beach somewhere watching the sunset. Nothing will ever convince me that the ending portrayed in 15.20 wasn’t exactly how Chuck thought he “won,” rendering it entirely irrelevant to the rest of canon, unless all of canon was ultimately the tragedy we’d been encouraged to believe would be firmly defeated in the end.

Folks, you can’t have it both ways. 

[demonologist-in-denim]

If season 12+ had gone differently, I would have really loved to see Crowley get a French Mistake episode. Especially since we know Amara came back to earth and spent her time playing craps in Reno or whatever, her and Crowley’s paths cross again, and she needs him out of the way for whatever’s going down with the Winchesters and Chuck, but also maybe kinda wants to thank him for “raising” her. So, *snap*, she sends him to a French Mistake alternative universe.

There are no monsters, no magic, no demons here. Certainly no Hell to run. Just a very familiar narrative written as a tv show, and it’s the summer hiatus. What’s Crowley to do? He’s got no powers, no plan, no immediate way back. So he decides to just try and enjoy life, see what happens. Enjoys having a loving wife, and kids that adore him, a family. Enjoys how much people apparently love this Mark Sheppard gent. Crowley might have been born to direct, but he can act, at least for a little while. Long enough to soak up all of this.

And he can’t help but look himself up, read what the fans are saying about him. He’s not surprised there are fans that consider him sexy, or that there are fans who still consider him a monster. But he doesn’t know what to make of all the spn fans out there who consider him loveable. He reads fanfiction, in which he morphs from a monster into a man, into a hero. Into one of the boys. He reads the blog posts and the meta posts and the long ranting discourse about how he deserved better and who he could have been. He looks at himself in the mirror, and tries to see what they see. Wants to be who the fans believe he could be.

And because right now who he has to be is Mark, he goes to spn conventions. He attends the panels and takes the photo ops. The fans shower him with love, with appreciation, with encouragement. It’s a little unsettling, a little awkward at first. Lucky for Crowley, Mark has always been short and teasing with the fans. He’s able to make it work, lets himself laugh a little, learns to lean into the hugs, return the smiles. He meets the fans who talk about how much Crowley the character helps them, even though he can’t seem to help himself. They talk about how much they empathize with him, love him, want a happy ending for him as the series comes to a close. Crowley feels equally seen and misunderstood in turns. He’s torn between gratitude and irritation, and settles for feeling smug about his popularity.

He walks the convention floor and sees all the fan-made plushies, the posters and stickers, all the t-shirts and pins and magnets with “Morons!” and “You’re good, but I’m Crowley” and “I just want to be loved.” There are even a few, stupidly flattering “Sold my soul to save Crowley’s”. An endless array of fan art, endless imagings in fanfiction and headcanons about his character and his past and his present and his hoped-for future. There is so much of it that Crowley begins to actually hope these fans and their silly indulgence in fandom isn’t in vain. A lifetime ago, he could have bought all their souls in a single night, with the mere promise that their devotion could manifest reality. Now, he feels strangely protective of them all.

Crowley stumbles but manages to catch himself in meeting the Winchester dopplegangers. He’s unprepared for the way that Jared teases him, Jensen and Misha include him, hug him, ask how he’s been and when are we getting together again, man? Maybe never, Crowley thinks to himself. Maybe, maybe I’ll never go back.

But the Winchesters and Castiel in his world are demanding to know just what the Hell Amara did with their no-longer-so-reluctant ally and frenemy. And she rolls her eyes and raises her perfectly manicured fingers and *snap*. And Crowley finds himself back. Back in his own world, back where no one loves him, and no laughs at his jokes, no one writes for him a happier ending than the one he’s likely to get. And then Dean says hey man, you okay? We were worried. And Crowley thinks to himself, maybe this world really is just a television show, or maybe it’s some greater being’s shitty draft, or even just someone’s piece of fanfiction. Maybe his ending has already been written. But he owes it to himself – and his fans – to try to be that better self. So he smiles at Dean, cockily, affectionately. And says, it’s good to be home.

[supersapphical]

Supersapphical's End of Year Roundup 2021

It's hard for me to believe that I've only had this blog for a little over 3 months now! I feel like I've already met SO many wonderful people. ❤️ And I can't believe how much I wrote! I haven't written fanfic in over ten years but I got back into it this year because of the wonderful community here and it has brought me so much joy. ❤️

Sapphicnatural Collection

Sapphicnatural Collection: I'm working here to compile a list of spn fics where sapphic ships/sapphic characters are prominently featured. Please feel free to submit your own work or rec your favorite sapphic work!

My Fics

Momento Mori (T, Amara/Billie, WIP-currently 5.7K): Finale fix-it fic where Billie teams up with Amara and the Winchesters to defeat Chuck.

The Witch Queen's Death (T, Billie/Rowena, WIP-currently 1.8K): a series of linked drabbles, Rowena speaks with Death, before, during and after dying.

The Bride of Melusine (T, Mary/Jamie, Mary & Dean, 19.2K): The first part in a planned series, focusing on Mary's struggles to adapt to life after her resurrection, including her relationship with her sons and her issues surrounding her own sexuality and gender presentation.

Faith Undone (E, Anna/Layla Rourke, 9.4K): One of the fics I am proudest of this year. Anna, the fallen angel, meets Layla, a woman who survives solely on faith.

Inflorescence (T, Anna/Mary, 4.9K): After the disaster that occured in the Song Remains the Same, Anna runs for her life and Mary forgets everything.

in my soul i spoke with you (T, Apocalypseverse Charlie/Kara, Apocalypseverse Charlie/Rowena, Apocalypseverse Charlie/Stevie, 1.4K): As a way to process her grief, Charlie writes letters to Kara, telling her about her new life in an alternate universe.

No Vacancy (T, Anael/Ruby, 2.6K): Anael and Ruby team up to steal a necklace that once belonged to Marie Antoinette.

Give to Me Your Leather, Take From Me My Lace (G, Gen, 3.5K): Claire character study

Angel's Trumpets (T, Gen, 3.4K): Kaia character study

The Name of God (Gen, 576 words): After the archangels are created, they hear God's name for the first time.

HAPPY 2022!!!! I can't wait to see what this beautiful, creative fandom comes up with next year. ❤️

[lorirwritesfanfic]

Lori's Favorite Fics #6

Hello there! Welcome to the November/December reviews of my favorite fics. I wasn't sure all fics were posted in this period of time. Some of the writers changed blogs/urls and reposted their own stories in a new blog, so I ended up losing a few links in the process. Because of this whole situation, the number of fics during both months decreased. It's also what usually happens during holiday season and when Choices latest book releases suck, which is why I decided to compile everything from the end of 2020 in one single post to make it easier.

Will I finally catch up? I don’t know... but I’m trying. My reading list gets bigger everyday and I'm not even counting the ones in my "marked for later" list at AO3. I’m also thinking about adding fics of other fandoms (LITG, TWC, Bridgerton, etc) here... But that’s an idea for later.

Anyway, let's get to the good stuff:

Desire and Decorum

Cold Flakes, Warm Hearts | MC, Vincent Foredale, Harry Foredale: Unspoken Desires universe is all really cute, but I think this is the sweetest fic @princess-geek has written for this series. As soon as it starts snowing, Beatrice (MC) goes to her father's room in hopes he complies to the tradition of cuddling during snowy days. Luckily, she has one of the greatest dads of Choicesverse and he promptly obliges ❤️

A Dash of Christmas Magic | Hamid x F!OC: I don't think I ever get tired of reading Hamid fics, but @missameliep's stories hold a special place in my heart and this one is no different. Elizabeth (OC) is dreading the idea of spending her first Christmas with her father's family, but Hamid comes up with an idea that will bring a smile to her face (and melt every single reader's heart).

Mornings | Ernest Sinclaire x MC: I stumbled upon this ficlet and I was so captivated by Ernest and Charity's (MC) morning route. What a lovely work, @ethanramseysrookiexox!

Taking Chances | Hamid x F!OC: Imagine a young woman walking around in a ball gown during Halloween, trying to get away from the creeps all these parties attract and ending up having the best time once she meets a dashing young man. Seems like the perfect meet cute of a romcom, right? Now add @missameliep‘s beautiful prose, Hamid and Elizabeth’s (OC) wonderful chemistry, a kiss description that will take your breath away and you’ll be thinking about this fic for days 😍

It Lives Beneath

The Christmas Compromise | Tom Sato x F!MC: Holiday Season prompts are such a fun thing to work with and one of my favorites was couple fighting over Christmas tree decorations. And it's such a joy to see this prompt being used to write Tom x F!MC. They're so dumb and so cute and this is just what I wanted from this prompt! Wonderful job, @kelseaaa!

Mother Of The Year

Double Trouble | Luz Mendez, daugther (Audriana), Thomas Mendez x MC (Amara): MOTY daughter and Luz are child BFF goals. But what happens when these two become step sisters and they decide to decorate the house for Christmas? Read this one shot written by @storyofmychoices to find out! Warning: If you can't handle two adorable young girls decorating the house to make their parents to kiss under a mistletoe, this story will make you squeal.

A Quiet Evening | Levi Schuler x MC: I don't know even where to begin on what to say about this fic... I love domestic fluff. But domestic fluff of Levi Schuler, pregnant Laura (MC) and Lily (daughter) stargazing is a must read if you miss MOTY and Levi because @storyofmychoices outdone herself ❤️

My Two First Loves

Us Against The World | Noah Harris x MC: MTFL had a lot of mistakes, but if there's one thing they did right was creating Noah. What a great character! And this fic written by @pixeljazzy perfectly portrays this bad boy with a big heart helping Krista (MC) find the time away fro her troubled life to think. This is pure high school sweethearts love and I’m here for it.

Open Heart

Holidays Memories | Rafael Aveiro x MC: Finally some good fucking Rafael Aveiro content (because @thequeenchoices​ wrote fluff ❤️). On this adorable one shot inspired by winter season prompts, Rafael is upset to stuck at home and unable to visit his family during the holiday. But Octavia (MC) helps him to find a silver lining during the snowstorm.

The Moments in Between (Part 3) | Rafael Aveiro x F!MC: More Rafael content because it's what I deserve it 😉 This lovely fic written by @curiousconch has three things that I want from any Raf x MC: fluff, love confessions and romantic sex. A.K.A Perfection.

Spread Joy | Bryce Lahela x F!OC: @storyofmychoices made to this list three times and she only has herself to blame 😍 Olivia (OC) is trying to fight tiredness during her rounds when Bryce shows up to bring a smile to her face. Pure sweet fluff is what you get from this story. By the way, this must be the third Bryce x MC fic I read and, so far, I'm not disappointed at all.

Platinum/Red Carpet Diaries

Hopeless | M!Raleigh Carrera x MC: Time for angst! Raleigh and Cadence broke up months ago, but neither of them forgot each other. Candace is ready to move on, regardless of her feelings for her ex. Raleigh, on the other hand, doesn't take the news about her engagement to Matt Rodriguez so well. @homeformyheart​'s description of Raleigh's feelings are so on point it's hard not wish he just ruins Cadence's engagement and take her away with him. (And this is coming from a Matt Rodriguez stan!)

The Royal Romance/The Royal Heir

Good Boy | Maxwell Beaumont x MC: Keeping up my "trying to read different fics/pairings", I found this Maxwell x MC + corgi fic and it's absolutely delightful. @phoenixfox56​ describes a sequence of fluff scenes of Chance enjoying the presence of his pet parents so well and all I have to say is we need more couple + pets fics like this one, people!

Fingers crossed I’ll post another review soon!

[verobatto]

Destiel Chronicles

Vol. LXXIV

It was a love story from the very beginning

You Are (Part III)

(11x23)

Hi! We reached the last meta from season 11! Yay!

As I disclaimed in my last meta, this is a Destiel centered series of analysis, so the rest of the topics could be taken superficially.

Hope you enjoy! Let's start!

[[MORE]]

You are back

Çhuck, God himself, was agonizing on the floor, the event most important on the entire Universe, but even so, Dean ordered Sam to go to check on him, because Dean wanted to check on his angel, his own personal universe.

Gif credit @mad-as-a-box-of-frogs

So the relived and slight one side ways smile he showed when he realized his Cas was back, it was priceless.

So, okay, the world was about to end, but Dean has Cas back, so... 🤣🤣

And later, when Cas made a innocent appreciation about Dog's breakfast, Dean just feels so proud of him. Throwing to his brother "Cas is back."

But I know we are not here for this little scenes ... But the nefarious car talk... Okay, let's suffer now.

I for We. And you are a brother to Us

We all know there was plenty alcohol in that bunker when Dean decided not to die sober.

The camera showed us deliberately, when the hunter opens the fridge, we had beers there.

So the 'let's go to a ride to buy some beers before the world ends' was just an excuse.

He invited Sam to covered his intentions, knowing Sam would reject him for sure.

So, when Sam said no, as he was expecting, he calls for his angel.

Once in the road, the conversation wet from one point, to another. But the way it ended it wasn't pleasent.

DEAN: How you doing? You good? I mean, you know, the whole Lucifer thing.

So, this is what happens with Dean: he can openly talk about his feelings or other people's feelings with Sam or Jody, but he lost track of his own words when Cas is in front of him. So here, by this, he wanted to know about why Cas said yes, or... What was happening with him. Because he didn't see that coming. But he simplifies this whole ideas that haunting him for so many days and night without sleeping, saying 'the whole Lucifer thing'. The whole Lucifer thing means all of this, including his own deception of Cas rejecting to be saved by him. To come back to him. So there this wall between Dean's true feelings and Dean's words towards Cas. He is protecting himself from that pain, the rejection. So he is deeply concerned, but he needs to act cool.

CAS: I was just... so stupid.

Cas is still sad and feeling not usefulness.

DEAN: No, no, no. It wasn't stupid. You were right. You were right to let Lucifer ride shotgun.

Me and Sam wouldn't have done that.

By saying this, Dean is trying to convince Cas he was useful, and brave. Because he did something not Sam not him would do. Dean is trying to support him and comfort him, as a real friend would do. He could be yelling at him, and saying he did a stupid thing, as he uses to do when Cas takes this kind of decision, but this time is different, because he recognizes Cas said yes to Lucifer because he was feeling sad, and bad. And Dean didn't see that.

CAS: Well, it didn't work.

DEAN: No, but it was our best shot, and you stepped up.

CAS: I was just trying to help.

DEAN: Well, and you do help, Cas.

Dean repeats to Cas that what he did was useful, was very helpful, he is important in the fight. Now that he settled that point, is time to let the angel know he's not just important for the fight, but for him. Because he was terribly worried about him, not sleeping, imagine he could lost him forever... But his fears to rejection played Dean again.

DEAN: You know, l— You know, sometimes me and Sam have got so much going on that...we forget about everyone else.

He backtracked, but he tried, he tried to apologise because he didn't see what was happening with Cas. So he look for a shield. Sam. If he uses Sam, he won't be alone in his feelings... Because Sam loves Cas a a brother, a real friend. But not Dean. Dean is in love with Cas, so, Sam is the shield. Those feelings: BROTHERHOOD, FRIENDSHIP. Yes. Dean can handle that. But his true feelings? The first person talk? The L word?, He just can't right now... that's why he transforms I into WE/US/SAM AND ME. We didn't see you sad. We weren't aware of your depression.

CAS: Well, you do live exciting lives.

DEAN: [Chuckles] Yeah, that's one word for it.

But you're always there, you know?

With this Dean is trying to say another thing it was haunting his mind this whole time for sure. Cas always come when they call. Cas is always there for them. Cas takes care of him, all the time. He failed to Cas.

[Dean looks over at Cas]

DEAN: You're the best friend we've ever had.

Dean is feeling the cowardice all over him, using the shield, the safe WE and covering his own true emotions and feelings, to deliver a message to Cas: YOU ARE IMPORTANT, best friend, is wonderful privilege, a great place. But Cas is more than just that, even for Sam, so he adds...

You're our brother, Cas. I want you to know that.

Dean places Cas in Sam's spot: BROTHERHOOD that's the maximum place for a friend. So for sure, Sam considers Cas his brother. But is not the place Dean gave Cas in his heart. But is a safe word: BROTHER, there's not danger on that. Not feelings exposure. Not rejection.

Gif credit @mad-as-a-box-of-frogs👇

Cas' sad and disappointed expression when he hears Dean saying this is so painful to see. That's not the place he wants with Dean. So is more pain for his angelic heart. Dean, heartbroken as he was for being rejected when he tried to save him, is heartbreaking Castiel now. Misscomunication, that will take a huge place in Dabb's era.

Jealous Cas

Just a few words about this, because I'm addition to the new rejection our angel had felt in Dean's hands, when they were planing the soul bomb, they needed someone to get close to Amara. And Cas, who had witnessed the way Dean and Amara interacted, that... Bond, he gave his own opinion about the plan...

CAS: We need somebody to get close to her, someone with a... personal connection.

Cas made a face here, not a good one hehe. He knew about this, about their connection.

Goodbye

Dean said goodbye to his mom the grave ( as a foreshadow of her resurrection), to his brother, and then, it was time for Cas...

Gif credit @spnsmile 👇

The hug is tender, and Dean looks sad at the end. But then Cas throws to him his quote ...

CAS: I could go with you.

DEAN: No, no, no. No, I got to do this alone.

Castiel is always willing to die for Dean, so let him go alone to a certain death is not something he is able to handle, but because Dean is requesting him this, and then he even gave Cas a mission: to take care of Sam. That's why Cas stays. He has a new mission, to protect Sam and comfort him.

Finally, when the world was saved, the camera shows us Cas asking for Dean. Because his thoughts were with him the whole time. Just like Dean's thoughts when he wanted to get his angel back, or when they were planning to defeat Amara, and Dean asked what Cas thought about the plan, and Lucy mocked him, of course.

Gif credit @mad-as-a-box-of-frogs 👇

Need vs Want

The writers presented to us the topic we will explore in season 12/13 and even 14. What do you want, Dean?

Want is not need. The quote I NEED YOU. It was used by Dean Winchester in the crypt scene, as a shield too, to avoid the fact that he needs Cas because he loves him.

But here we have Amara

AMARA: Dean, you gave me what I needed most. I want to do the same for you.

And she wasn't wrong, she needed her brother to be in peace, and after a visit to the bunker, finding that pic with Mary and Dean on it, she perceived Dean needed his mom the most. So Dean will need his mother to finally find what he really wants. It will be the start of his self knowledge, self acceptance and self love that will lead him to finally express his true feelings for Castiel, that we all are waiting to happen in season 15.

I hope you enjoyed this!! See you in the next meta! Season 12!

To Conclude:

Last episode from this season showed us an attempt of Dean Winchester to put into words all the things that he was struggling with. But using Sam and changing the I for We/Us is a symptom of Dean's fears of being rejected. He is not ready to express his feelings which is translated into a new deception and rejection for Cas. Misscomunication.

Ending with the Need vs Want, preparing the self knowledge path Dean will have in season 14.

Tagging @magnificent-winged-beast @emblue-sparks @weird-dorky-little-deana @michyribeiro @whyjm @legendary-destiel @a-bit-of-influence @thatwitchydestielfan @misha-moose-dean-burger-lover @lykanyouko @evvvissticante @savannadarkbaby @dea-stiel @poorreputation @bre95611 @thewolfathedoor @charlottemanchmal @neii3n @deathswaywardson @followyourenergy @dean-is-bi-till-i-die @hekatelilith-blog @avidbkwrm @anarchiana @dickpuncher365 @vampyrosa @authorsararayne @anonymoustitans @mybonsai1976 @love-neve-dies @dustythewind @wayward-winchester67 @angelwithashotgunandtrenchcoat @trashblackrainbow @deeutdutdutdoh @destiel-shipper-11 @larrem88 @charmedbycastiel @ran-savant @little-crazy-misha-minion @samoosetheshipper

@shadows-and-padlocked-hearts @mishtho @dancingtuesdaymorning @nerditoutwithbooks @mikennacac73 @justmeand-myinsight @idontwantpeopletoknowmyname @teddybeardoctor @pepevons @helevetica @isthisdestiel @dizzypinwheel @jawnlockwinchester @horsez2 @qanelyytha

@imjustkipping @destielle @agusvedder @spnsmile @shippsblog @robot-feels @superlock-in-the-tardis @superduckbatrebel

If you want to be added or removed from this list, just let me know.

If you want to read the previous metas from season 11, here you have the links.

Vol. LXII, LXIII, LXIV, LXV, LXVI, LXVII, LXVIII, LXIX, LXX, LXXI, LXXII, LXXIII.

Buenos Aires, August 11th 2020 5:30 PM

[bippityboppitybibuck]

hey, yeah, what the FUCK happened this episode. i've been trying to follow along with the live blogs and its honestly just chaos

Hey anon!!!

Okay so a lot happened and a lot didn’t. And that was the problem, I’ve not been in the fandom long and honestly until about two months ago I had never heard the term bucklemming (and until two hours ago I didn't know it was two people).

However, the fandom has a long-standing issue with them because of pacing issues in their episodes and OOC writing (ie jack not giving two shits that Cas was still in the empty despite knowing about the deal and what would have happened to get him taken by it) and their absolute love of Lucifer.

So quick run down of plot, (apologies this did not stay as short as i planned)

Everyone in the world is dead, Dean tells Sam and Jack that Cas is gone and there are literally no questions asked, they go back to the bunker and a couple days have passed, Dean passes out surrounded by booze but that's pretty much all the mourning we see him do

They follow jacks ‘i feel an energy’ thing to a church but first they make a pit stop at a gas station where Dean finds a dog; Chuck then immediately kills the dog once Dean is all excited that something else survived with them

They go to the church and see Michael who tells them that Adam died in the rapture (yes what chuck did was the rapture) they head back to the bunker and Dean gets a call from Cas but its actually Lucifer at the door and he's here to fuck shit up but wait maybe he’s here to help, he pops a reaper into the bunker (her names betty) and then kills her immediately and she becomes the new death (because the first reaper to die after Death is killed takes over (which seems like a bad system considering decades might go by before a reaper is killed after a death dies but alas) no one questions what happened to all the other reapers by the way but that's not currently relevant) 

Because only death can read the death books betty starts reading chucks and after a few sentences luci kills her (rip betty 2020) luci reveals that he wasn't on their side (shocker there folks) and he and Michael duke it out, Luci dies (thankfully) and Sam starts to translate the book because not only is death the only one who can read the book but they are the only ones who can OPEN the book to meaning that the book had been sealed this whole time

Sam works out a spell and its ingredients and they (the three of them and Michael) go to the literal same place they burned Cas’ body in 13x01 because why not (btw this is not ever addressed) and set the spell up but it doesn't work

Chuck shows up and kills Michael for consorting with dean sam and jack (even tho he was still working for chuck and trying to do right by his father) and proceeds to beat the fucking shit out of dean and sam, they refuse to give in and keep standing up (on several broken limbs might i add) this goes on so long it feels like when luci was beating dean to a pulp in swan song. 

Finally they confuse chuck enough to make him turn around and jack is up and looking like he wants to fuck shit up. he ends up doing the same move to chuck as he did Michael while he was possessing rowena in s14 and chuck collapses

Dean responds to chucks comment about being a killing machine by saying “no I'm not” which we all think is a call back to Cas’ speech before he died. 

The heroes explain that jack had become a power vacuum (actual dialogue) (remember the flowers jack killed in the silo?) and that over these past days he's been absorbing the power that is let off by things, ie, luci and Michael fighting, the plants and flowers, chuck pummeling dean and sam (bc why rip off just infinity war when you can rip off the entire lore behind the black panther suit/ vibranium too)  

Chuck is left powerless after this and dean sam and jack drive off as a now human chuck essentially grovels on the ground. they head into town and jack brings back everyone who was killed by god in the previous episode and then gives a really weird speech that confirms that he is in fact the new god (and that amara is now in him and they are in harmony) but says he's gonna be hands off and legit just glows a bunch and disappears. 

Dean and sam go back to the bunker and realize they don't have to worry about chucks control on them, we get a like four min montage of the entire show and then they literally drive off into the sunset.  

some important notes, Cas was not brought back to life despite it being stated clearly in the episode that god has the power to bring angels back from the empty, no one even asks jack to do it and jack doesnt do it on his own

there is no mention of Bobby Donna Charlie Eileen or anyone else that was killed in 15x18

Sam never asks dean about cas, having apparently gotten all the info he needed in the sentence ‘cas is gone, the empty took him’ 

honestly the only plot thread wrapped in this ep was god’s and while that might seem big its not really enough like the episode was lacking in a lot of areas

Its been said that Bucklemming hates both Cas and Misha, and that they are literally obsessed with bibro (loving sam and dean equally- a fan made term to stop the sam girls and dean girls from fighting i think) and that they are really really into the whole ‘the show is about two brothers and the open road’ which the show hasn't been about since maybe season two or three 

I'm not sure if you can tell from my synopsis (Again sorry it got so long) that a lot of the characters seemed off, Jack not caring that Cas was still dead, Dean not mourning, sam not giving two shits either way, sam not caring to check in on eileen, neither of them checking in with their hunter friends, Michael switching back over to chucks side despite his actions in 15x09, the fact that no one mentioned the plot holes in the ep (by that i mean within the episode no one had questions about the things that didn't fit, like Michael never questioned how a book that could only be read by death was being decoded by Sam)

overall the episode was bad, objectively, not from a destiel shipper standpoint bad. there are many ideas floating around about 15x20 considering this episode really felt like the end of spn, people are mentioning that the relationship arcs are unfinished and that Dabb (whos writing the next one and who has written many of the quinticential destiel episodes) will save the day. Im holding out hope that 15x20 will be better (which should be too hard to achieve after that shit show) 

I'm sorry if this is a mess I'm a bit all over the place but I wanted to make sure you got even a partial answer