#and whether its romantic or not should be up to the individual

[noahtally-famous]

made a 16-slide presentation for gabriel jha, i spent three days back to back on this (and planning out the fic that takes place before, during, and after tdpi that's centric around his and dave's brotherly bond, alenoah, noah and dave's friendship, and alejandro and carlos's brotherly bond)

(the slideshow reads like a character wiki page 💀)

no going back now. while i finalize the slides (idek if i should post it here, it's a full-on oc form for a character only i care abt 😭 but it would be good background info), have some before/after racing accident that had dave auditioning for total drama picrews of gabriel! (so in other words, pre and post tdpi gabriel)

[deus-sema]

The discourse surrounding Sauron and Galadriel about love and obsession has been rather interesting to catch up with so far. After going through the perspectives of both those who like this pairing and those who don’t, I think both sides can unite in agreement over this one fact, if nothing else: obsession, without any shred of doubt, exists between them. It exists on both sides for she has been obsessed with him long before he was with her. Yes, it was motivated by unadulterated hatred and a desire for vengeance, but he occupied her thoughts for the better or worse. Now, she has planted herself in his mind too.

Then comes the question of whether whatever there is between them can be considered romantic or not. Is it appropriate to label it as love or not? Here it is a matter of preference which differs from person to person. What will be interpreted as romantic by one may not be so by another and vice versa. It is completely understandable why many will be uncomfortable with the notion of obsession being associated with love. Obsession – over anything and anyone – is usually an unhealthy emotion. Unwanted and unpredictable, it can prove detrimental to both the individual experiencing it as well as the people around them. In the real world, it needs to be recognized for what it is and addressed for the betterment of everyone.

But, herein lies the difference between the world we exist in and fictional worlds. Every work of fiction, regardless of genre, exists on a different plane whose happenings have no bearing on our reality. Fiction is a realm of infinite possibilities which is the reason why people use it for wish fulfillment. People can’t fly or use magic for real but they can do so in a make-believe world. People can cheat death and turn over a new leaf. Foes can become friends and overcome their grievances. They can live happily ever after without any worries about betrayal or loss. It is a place where ideal and unconditional love is allowed to thrive. Simultaneously, it is also where love can exist in flawed, twisted and, even, perverse forms. It can be greedy, possessive, selfish, and warped while still retaining its essence. That is probably the reason why many, myself included, are fascinated with the idea of stories with obsessive love. With the idea of an all-consuming desire and yearning on one character’s part for another that can go on to be destructive. With the concept of evil beings experiencing love. It is why obsession fueled by love, whether executed properly or not, is an integral component of many dark romances. Within stories, it is permitted to be what it is most certainly not in reality. In real life, no emotion – not even what we believe to be love – should override our individual well being or anyone else’s. This is why fiction is a safe space to explore fantasies. Even the most incredulous ones of all.

Now, about how I interpret Sauron and Galadriel, specifically, within the context of this show: It is love. They developed feelings for each other when their paths crossed unexpectedly and they forged an unlikely bond because of the circumstances they faced together. Simple. Unintentionally, Galadriel began to care for her greatest enemy and believed him to be her friend. She is still obsessed with defeating him but whatever she felt for Halbrand now exists alongside her hatred for Sauron. Meanwhile, Sauron is still pretty much evil. He is working to further his own interests or,rather,what he thinks to best for Middle Earth. But, at the same time, he desires Galadriel. Both were visibly attracted to one another in the first season. Even though no words were said, Charlie and Morfydd, being the phenomenally talented and intelligent actors that they are, conveyed it beautifully through their expressions and body language. I don’t think it is a betrayal to the characters either for the show, more or less, took Sauron’s canonical obsession with Galadriel and her persistent defiance against him and added to it a layer of romance which is doomed because of who they are. I don’t claim to know what the show plans on doing with them in future and it is not in my hands. We can only speculate, engage in wishful thinking and write fanfics and AUs if things don’t go the way we want them to.

RoP is a show I’m enjoying so far in all its aspects and I’m not exaggerating when I say that its fandom is one of the most chilled-out and relaxing ones I’ve engaged with in recent times. I’ve gotten to interact with many amazing posts. However I’m well aware that where there is more than one person, there are differences in opinions. Where there are differences, there will be disagreements. Where there are disagreements, there will be clashes. Clashes will lead to fanwars. Fanwars have high chances of turning toxic. I know the drill for I have undergone it in many fandoms. I’ve been carried away by the toxicity and have made my fair share of mistakes too. Those experiences have taught me some important lessons. One mistake I made, rather repeatedly, during my…..enthusiastic….stanning phase was to engage in fights with people whose opinions on a certain topic or fictional character differed from mine. All factions believe their interpretation of whichever nonexistent character they like in whatever made-up story they are into, is the correct one and many a times they can substantiate their claims with reasons. Sometimes, these contrasting opinions lead to some riveting and respectful discussions between people which, to be honest, is the entire point behind a public platform. Sometimes, they result in nasty fights.

Ideally, the feelings of real people should be prioritized over seemingly trivial issues like different preferences in fiction. But if we were capable of that we would all be perfect but, as we all know, perfection exists only in Valinor. Fictional works are dearer to us than some random stranger on the internet. So, when we encounter a radically different opinion about something we are passionate about, the first reaction is usually one of annoyance. Depending on whether it is mild or severe, this annoyance can make us petty. We crave the satisfaction of one-upping those who disagree with us, of validating our perspective over their’s and, as a result, we don’t realize if someone’s feelings get hurt in the process. Or even if we do, the euphoria of ‘winning’ in the discourse makes it easier to sweep the adverse effects under the rug. I don’t believe we need to withhold our opinions to make others happy. We are not bound to understand each other's opinions, much less agree every time. But we do owe it to each other to be civil if not anything else. As for me, what I’m going to try and do is to ignore the takes I disagree with and mind my own business. If it gets too much then I am going to press the block button. I advise those who dislike my opinions and takes to do the same. It’s nothing personal and we all deserve to enjoy in our own spaces while choosing what content we wish to see and engage with without suppressing our thoughts. We deserve to vent as well for it is healthy. I cannot guarantee that I’ll be successful right away for there are still instances when I end up behaving in a manner that is plain immature. But, to paraphrase the late Diarmid who once tried to counsel Sauron (Eru bless his soul), I simply have to keep trying until it becomes a habit.

So, take care everyone, and I hope you all are doing well wherever you are.

[balancedearthylioness]

Libra Rising: The Charm of a Celestial Dawn

As a first house libra rising with black moon Lilith forming a conjunction with my ascendant, heres what I know from personal experience...Do you share these astro placements with me?? The first house not only influence but also presents a unique outlook on how the world perceives you. For those with Libra rising, the aura they project is that of charm, diplomacy, and a deep yearning for beauty and harmony.

Libra Rising: The First House and Its Significance

In astrology, the first house is an area of the chart that signifies one’s identity. It is the lens through which we view the world, our self-image, and the impressions we leave on others. With Libra ruling the first house, your approach to life is colored by themes of relationships, aesthetics, and a strong desire for equilibrium.

Imagine waking up every day driven by a need for balance—a delicate dance between your desires and those of the world around you. Libra rising individuals tend to prioritize social harmony, valuing partnerships and communal experiences above all. The key phrase for a Libra rising individual is often, "What’s in it for us?" This perspective extends beyond mere selfishness; rather, it reflects an inherent instinct towards collaboration and shared experiences, emphasizing that life can and should be better when it is lived together.

The Libra Personality Traits

Individuals with Libra rising are often seen as graceful and sociable. Their charisma lights up a room, drawing people in and making them feel comfortable. They possess an innate ability to relate to others, often finding common ground in almost any conversation. Here are a few hallmark traits that characterize those with Libra rising:

Diplomatic Nature

: Libra’s desire for harmony resonates deeply within these individuals. They often act as mediators in conflicts, keen on ensuring that all voices are heard. This diplomatic prowess enables them to navigate complex social situations with grace.

Aesthetic Sensibility

: People with Libra rising are often artistically inclined. They have an eye for beauty, whether in art, fashion, or interpersonal relationships. Their surroundings often reflect their taste and an appreciation for aesthetics.

Affectionate and Romantic

: Libra rising individuals cherish relationships, often forming deep emotional connections with others. Their romantic ideals are high, and they seek partnerships that bring balance and fulfillment to their lives.

Charming and Charismatic

: Naturally engaging, those with Libra rising often come off as charismatic. Their warm demeanor and polished communication skills make them easy to connect with, attracting friends and acquaintances alike.

Indecisive

: On the flip side, the need for balance can lead to indecision. Libra rising individuals may find it challenging to make choices, particularly when those choices can affect others.

Black Moon Lilith in Libra: An Intriguing Aspect

In astrology, Black Moon Lilith represents a unique aspect of feminine energy, often linked to themes of independence, rebellion against patriarchal constraints, and embracing one’s primal energy. When Lilith is placed in Libra and occupies the first house alongside your Ascendant, the dynamics of relationships and the search for balance take on an intriguing intensity.

With Black Moon Lilith in Libra, the interplay between partnerships and independence becomes complex. While Libra rising embodies socialization, harmony, and collaboration, Lilith pulsates with an appeal to assert personal freedom and explore one's darker instincts. Here are some key elements that illustrate their coexistence:

Magnetic Presence

: Individuals with this placement often exude a magnetic quality. While they strive for social harmony, there's an underlying sense of mystery that draws others in. The Lilith energy adds an edge to their charm, making them intriguing figures who keep people guessing.

Struggle for Equality and Independence

: The desire for balance can sometimes clash with the need for independence. Libra rising individuals with a Lilith influence often grapple with the tension of wanting closeness while simultaneously needing to assert their individuality. This dynamic can lead to struggles within partnerships, causing them to oscillate between wanting to connect and seeking freedom.

Exploration of Relationships

: Relationships become a fertile ground for personal exploration as they navigate the realms of unity and independence. Many encounter provocative experiences in their partnerships that push them to confront their own desires and boundaries.

Emphasis on Authenticity

: Lilith in Libra can foster a desire for authenticity in relationships. These individuals are not content with superficial connections; they seek depth and meaning, valuing honesty and transparency as they navigate romantic entanglements.

Challenges with Trust

: The juxtaposition of Libra's idealism and Lilith's chaotic energy may lead to a wariness in trusting others. This placement can result in a precautionary nature, where they may unconsciously push back against vulnerability, fearing that such openness may jeopardize their independence.

Navigating Life as a Libra Rising with Lilith

Living with Libra rising and Black Moon Lilith in the first house translates into a rich, textured life that can be both rewarding and challenging. Here are some ways to navigate through the complexities of this unique combination:

Prioritize Self-Awareness

Understanding your motivations and desires is key. Reflect on your relationship patterns and how they align with your need for both partnership and independence. This insight will guide you in making decisions that honor your inner needs while still appreciating the essence of connection.

Balance Independence with Togetherness

Embrace activities that allow personal space within relationships. Consider deepening your individual interests or hobbies that positively challenge partnerships. Finding time for solitude can recharge your spirit and enhance your ability to engage with others.

Foster Authentic Relationships

Seek connections that nourish your soul. Surround yourself with people who respect and cherish your individuality while encouraging emotional depth. These interactions will fuel your inner desire for authenticity.

Trust Your Instincts

Developing trust—both in yourself and others—is vital. While the push-and-pull of your energies may induce moments of hesitancy, learning to listen to your instincts will promote growth. Embrace vulnerability by opening up to those who have proven themselves trustworthy.

Embrace Your Chaotic Energy

Rather than shying away from Lilith's chaotic influence, lean into it. Explore creative outlets, engage in self-expression, and allow your inner rebel to thrive. This authenticity not only enriches your life but enhances your presence among others.

Libra rising individuals exemplify the art of relationships and diplomacy, weaving a path of charm and beauty in the world. The presence of Black Moon Lilith in Libra adds an exciting dimension to their journey—inviting exploration of the delicate interplay between partnerships and individual identity. Understanding and harnessing these energies allows Libra rising individuals to navigate the world with both grace and authenticity.

♎⚖️🐚🖤

Ultimately, life as a Libra rising with Lilith is a continuous dance—a harmonious interplay between the longing for unity and the passion for independence. By embracing their complexity and navigating it mindfully, they can create profound connections and live a fulfilling life that honors their unique essence.

[mobblespsycho100]

🍳 bc i love ur takes

I was wondering whether or not I should share a Kabru hot take, Mithrun hot take, or Okonomiyaki trio hot take, so I'm going to share all three (lmao)

Starting with Okonomiyaki trio, I think they should be in a QPR post canon. I think they should get married, but not married for benefits, but like. An intricate song and dance, courting rituals beyond traditionally romantic understanding. I think Toshiro should show up at Toshitsugu's place holding Kabru and Laios' hand and Namari his bestie should be there also and he should go "Oyaji-dono, here are my two partners, The King of the Golden Kingdom and his Royal Advisor, and my bestest friend ever Namari of Kahka Brud, and yes, I'm going to go live happily with them in Melini. Also, we're going to beat you to death. "

I think Kabru has low empathy. Hear me out. He's highly emotionally intelligent, but his affective empathy (feeling how others feel without direct emotional stimulation to oneself) is low while his cognitive empathy (the ability to recognize and understand another's mental state) is high. I think, a lot of people who like Kabru tend to like ignore/brush off the fact that he can be manipulative and cunning because they associate those traits with evil or abusive people. Like, no. I see a lot of NPD traits in Kabru, and he's still an ultimately good/kind person who cares for others. He's a great character, and he has sooo many complex issues. Like, as a Kabru lover with NPD I see a lot of traits in him, and people need to understand that NPD (and other personality disorders) usually develops from childhood trauma... He isn't an awful person because he's manipulative guys. He's very complex. He has layers. Also I think he was totally in the right for "killing" (they show up in the end) the corpse retrievers. Let him enact his justice, they literally JUST tried to get him and his friends to kill each other, and then offered to work together to kill inexperienced adventurers. I would've tortured those fuckers, but Kabru is so kind he just kills them quickly.

People who baby Mithrun or call him ugly, even if its in an "affectionate" way, should stop. Lmao. Like, its literally ableism. No other explanation. Mithrun is a grown ass man (gender neutral). He isn't even an old man by our standards, or elven standards (hes 185??? thats not even close to 400???) he's more like a young man with old man energy not an old man with young man energy. He's clearly a very capable individual, while also being physically disabled and visibly scarred/has facial differences. He even has a prosthetic eye and stuff. Like people who call him ugly... can y'all be normal about irl disabled people? Or does every fictional character exist to be "pretty" and always have to follow like the Western societal beauty standards. Please, just think about stuff before calling Mithrun a dying old disfigured dog or a sad little baby. He's 👏 a 👏 disabled 👏 and 👏 neurodivergent 👏 grown 👏 ass 👏 man who just happens to be a lil emo. or goth (vampirism) just.... goodness gracious. 😭😭😭 stop being ableist people, it's really embarassing

sorry for how ranty / rambly this came off as , I just think. I should speak forever. LMAO Thanks for the ask :] I'm glad people like my takes

[floradinterlunium]

When Rationality Becomes Irrational

The number one reason people refuse to accept or admit the obvious nature of Jikook’s relationship is not because of Homophobia or Taekook, it’s because of excessive rationality--Jikook can’t be in a relationship because of the risks.

We’ve all heard the rationalizations:

1. Why would Jikook risk their careers and their bandmates careers over what could potentially amount to a fling? A break up would destroy the group! Jimin and Jungkook are too professional to take such a risk.

2. Hybe would never allow them to be in a relationship. BTS is their number one money maker and Jimin and JK are two of the most popular members. Let’s forget break up, what if they’re outed...that would destroy the group and with it HYBE’s number one source of revenue. So anything that looks suspicious has to be fan service because its financial suicide to allow Jikook to be “real.”

And I will admit all the above is true! Jikook being in a relationship is a massive risk! But this is where rationality can start to impede on our logic.

Yes, it is “irrational” to enter into a relationship with your same sex bandmate in a homophobic country when you are at the peak of your careers...but it was also unavoidable...

Let me explain:

Imagine falling in love with your best friend that you not only happen to work with but also live with. To make matter worse, let’s also imagine that your friend also loves you too. A physical relationship at the very least is bound to happen because at no point are you ever able to escape your feelings...you are with the object of your affection 24/7.

In my opinion,  It is more logical to expect a relationship to blossom out of that, regardless of the risks, then to expect these two individuals to have more self control than a Buddhist Monk. 

It is not rational to expect people to Always behave “rationally.” Thus, whether or not Jikook being in a relationship is rational or not should play no role in whether or not one thinks they are. Because there is no doubt that them being a couple is a risk...no one is arguing against that. All we are saying is risk aside there is no way they aren’t in a relationship because things like GCFT happened:

Jungkook planned and paid to take Jimin to Tokyo for his birthday--A city he said he wanted to spend his free time in on multiple occasions. He then spent a lot of time researching and constructing a romantic vlog of Jimin in Tokyo  set to the tune of a romantic song. No normal unbiased person walked away from that video thinking anything other than this video was made by a man in love with Jimin. 

Risk aside there is no way they aren’t in a relationship because they say things to, and about each other like, “I promised him I’d go even to the moon with him,” or “he’s my I am you, you are me,” or “I want to spend a long time with you” or “my favorite thing is waking up and seeing JK.” These aren’t things Just friends or even best friends say to each other in normal conversations. These are words lovers speak to each other.

Risk aside there is no way they aren’t in a relationship because instead of just flying to Hawaii from Europe, Jimin chose to fly back to Korea, get JK a birthday cake, and plan a birthday party to surprise Jungkook. He didn’t just wish Jungkook a happy birthday like any just “friend” would do, he made it a point to never miss celebrating Jungkook’s birthday with him. That is something a boyfriend or husband would do for their partner.

Risk aside there is no way they aren’t in a relationship because whenever JK looks at or talks about Jimin he has stars in his eyes. Jungkook comes live a lot and he spends the vast majority of his lives either live reacting to Jimin content, talking about Jimin, or becoming like a kid at recess whenever Jimin makes a point to comment on his lives. How can anyone watch JK’s recent lives and not conclude that, that man is in love with Jimin. His behavior is not normal friend behavior. Hobi’s support, and Yoongi’s support is normal friend behavior. They show up for him, cheer him on and even fan girl. But JK takes the cake. He spends huge chunks of time just gushing over JM, Why? Because he loves him.

Risk aside there is no way they aren’t in a relationship because when sick the only person JK doesn’t mind accompanying him or staying in the room with him, even when he’s being stripped naked is Jimin. When RM asked if he wanted them to leave for privacy...JK said yes but no one made JM leave because it’s understood that JM is not like the rest when it comes to JK. That’s a high level of closeness...to allow someone to see you so vulnerable, in a state of helplessness and be okay with it. 

Risk aside there is no way they aren’t in a relationship because they are always together. Band members, staff, they themselves admit this. They are always together on and off break. JK said when they were on break the only members he spoke to were Ji-hope. When members mention them they confuse their names, or talk about them in unison...Jk and Jimin did this or JK and JM are always up late! They are a package deal. We may not see them much now days but we know they are still together a lot because of the way they speak and other’s speak about them as if they are used to seeing them together “JM will come (box) when he gets off.” “JK make ramen for me when I come over.” “JM come eat chicken with me-” JM responds I will come when done. 

Risk aside...Their closeness defies normal friendship closeness. Jikook are human with human impulses and feelings. If they started having feelings for each other there was no avoiding a relationship...regardless of the risk...regardless of Hybe...regardless of the band! No normal human being would be able to stop themselves from entering into a relationship with a person they loved if they were under the same conditions. Every day i grow more sure of the fact that they are together because when I look at them I look at the abundance of footage BTS footage, fan sightings, JIkook statements and I conclude that even though they are well aware of the risks they took it because they knew there was no other option.

Jungkook is more superstitious then Jimin he believes in things like Destiny and from the way he looks at Jimin and behaves towards, protects him and sometimes treats him like porcelain it is clear that this man sees Jimin as his Destiny. Jimin while self admittedly doesn’t believe in things like fate and destiny, he does believe in committing oneself to someone for life and I truly think he sees JK as his life partner...which is why, as careful of a person as he is, he has taken the risk...because JK is his person.

[kingxgarm]

So... I have some fic ideas and I wanna know which one would like the most

I'm so sleep deprived lol

Debating on making this poll last a week (I'm doing it)

(I will get around to all of these eventually, I just wanna know which ones the best idea to do)

Afton Death Swap

So basically, the story will start with a main prologue, then as the characters experience the tragedy of the prologue, they will get their own individual stories of their POVs, you get to pick which POV you want to follow, or read all of them (the main story will conclude at fnaf 6, but I do have a side story in mind for security breach and help wanted)

Agony

Chapter 1 will be about William waking up in this new agony infested purgatory, he must find some answers and survive, because everything wants him dead

Reach for the Stars

The "dating sim"

Similar to the death swap, there will be a main prologue and each route will be its own individual story, some characters will have romantic routes, some platonic, some both, you decide

There will be dialog options, but I'm not sure whether I should let comments vote which option to pick, or write all of them, and you read which one you pick (it'll be like, go to chapter x if you picked y, ya know)

I might need help with this since it's SUCH a big project, so if you have Notion and want to help write an x reader fic of your favorite tsams character, just shoot me a dm! It's first come, first serve for characters, but obviously, collabs are acceptable

I should also clarify that this is a FANFIC, not a game, don't want to confuse anyone

Yearning

I posted about this a while ago, this is one of my many rewrites for Disney's Wish, it has its own magic system, backstory, and religious components and I might even write songs for it if I decide to go that far

Bloodlust

My collab with @mossy-frog69

We're writing an infection au basically centered around bloodmoon (and polyamory lol)

The first chapter has been in development for a while, but I believe it will soon be at a point where we can post it for you guys!

I'm wondering if I don't come back, maybe then I'll know

An ethgoesboom fic about glitchtrap being the real afton and springtrap being a fake

This is technically a Prequel, but whatever

[elaratyrell]

Okay,

Hate me all you want, but I really hope Sara doesn’t have a role in season 2. Or at least keep it small.

There are, of course, conflicting sources over what Jace actually got up to in Winterfell.

Some say he fell in love with Sara and married her (and since it was Mushroom of all people, I call bullshit).

Some say he slept with Cregan.

Some say he actually stayed loyal to Baela.

I hope that’s the case.

One of the weirdest things in F&B to me was Jace’s infidelity. He had such a good heart, as seen in the show, and even though infidelity wasn’t rare in this universe, I always figured Jace had more respect for Baela, his cousin, his step sister, his betrothed, then to fall for some random bastard in Winterfell. Surely he’d have more respect for her, romantic or familial?

If he does cheat on Baela in the show, it should be with Cregan instead of Sara. That makes more sense given they hunted together, got to know each other, formed a bond that made Cregan one of Rhaenyra’s most loyal supporters!

I have nothing against Sara as a character, but I never liked what Jace allegedly did.

Given that the only shots of Winterfell we’ve seen have been a) Jace and Cregan at the Wall and b) them at night, presumably on a hunt or returning from one, I think it’s safe to assume we won’t be spending a lot of time at Winterfell. One episode max.

Given that we’re getting two fewer episodes in season 2, the events will likely be more compressed. They clearly want to spend more time in the Riverlands (as they should due to its massive importance in the war), and bring Cregan to the forefront, given his hype among the fan base as a Stark, and so the logical thing to do is cut storylines that aren’t essential to the show. Sara’s storyline is one that I personally could do without. Especially since Baela and Jace are popular, both as individuals and as a pairing, whether that be platonic or romantic.

And to the people who do love Sara, and who were looking forward to seeing her, I’m sorry that her storyline seems to be massively shortened, if not cut entirely.

On an unrelated note, if Nettles has been cut and her storyline given to Rhaena, fuck you HBO.

[sonicasura]

Kaiju Kafka Headcanons

I said I would do a full thing on Kafka's Kaiju side. Thus here it is. I already gave some examples in my previous post where the man gets shoved into a parental role. Not talking about the tiny Kaiju that gave Kafka said form btw. Second part is here. Biology related stuff can be found here. This is the whole thing so let's get started.

Kafka's Kaiju side is the equivalent of a curious cat. This stems partly from how powerful he know he is and can handle threats that bother him. (Like a cat.) Kafka inspects anything that garners his interest whether it be places, animals and people.

He will also swipe items to even food whether its his or someone else's. Someone can immediately garner Kaiju No.8's interest if they offer him something, not afraid of the monster, be friendly in a genuine way, etc. He has no preference on food as this feral side will eat anything. Even kaiju meat like brain matter to intestines.

He claims whatever he likes through scent marking as his scales release a unique pheromone that gets rubbed in by nuzzling the interest in question. Only kaiju can pick up on it and it's a nonverbal way of saying 'Fuck off, this is mine.' These pheromones are VERY VERY potent since they correlate with the power Kafka wields.

Anyone who doesn't get the message will be subjected to very vicious attacks. Kaiju don't fuck around when it comes to their claims. The same goes for Kafka's as he won't hesitate to make an example out of the offender. Whatever remains are strewn up to be a morbid example to what would happen to potential offenders.

Kafka's Kaiju side is susceptible to the instinct of wanting to find a mate. This partly stems from the man himself since he did say he wants to be someone's bride in the second chapter. Can I say RIP the Defense Force as any offspring from Kafka are gonna have Kaiju blood.

And maternal kaiju can be fucking horrible to deal with. These monsters will go utterly berserk if any harm is done to their offspring. A lot of damage alongside potential deaths are often contributed to someone disturbing a kaiju's whelp whether it be a sole individual or intruding on a nest.

If Kafka finds a romantic partner then his kaiju side will mark them as well. Just like with offspring, kaiju who are protective of their mates can be very vicious. Separation tactics tend to be utilized by the Defense Force as it's the least destructive method in dealing with these particular targets.

This protective behavior will also go to anyone Kafka cares about. Whether it be people he views as his kids, family, sibling figures, parental figures and even close friends. The kaiju inside will mark them. Basically super possessive.

Going into further behavior, Kafka's kaiju will make changes to their shared form. These include tail, wings, extra appendages like arms, size to even webbing. It mainly depends on how useful these adaptations can be and try to make them permanent.

Kafka's Kaiju evaluates from an outside source such as animals to other kaiju, human half's knowledge, then finally experimentation. Adaptations that been decided on to be permanent are very difficult for the human side to will away. A struggle Kafka constantly deals with when it comes to his monster side.

Especially if it's wings, size or a tail. Kaiju No.8 is very stubborn in keeping these particular adaptations. The tail and wings being prehensile in nature with the former either ending in a hand, serpentine mouth or both via a split. Size is a more important issue since Kaiju No.8 has a preference for Medium(50 meters) to even Large(120 meters) if feeling spiteful.

Should Kaiju No.8 be in control then there are differences to indicate this. The eyes become slitted but also glow a bit brighter, posture shifts to a more animalistic kind like sitting on his haunches(cat behavior), presence of claws alongside talons and acting out instincts completely uncaring. No.8 will possess his human form if need be. (Latter would have be unconscious, willingly give control, or gets overwhelm by primal instinct.)

Simplest indicator being if Kafka grooms someone using his tongue then that's his feral side in control. He can handle the purring, nuzzling, hissing, headbutting and even grooming but the man draws the line on tongue baths. It just feels very weird to him. The least accurate tell is vocalization.

Kafka's kaiju can speak should he want to. His mannerisms are similar to the human side, aka a dorky himbo, albeit more blunt and rugged. He will also use more primal terms such as whelp, mate, hatchling or brood to name a few examples.

Some of these are accidentally used by the human side. Kafka never wanted to bury himself in a hole so fast when he accidentally calls Kikoru his hatchling. (She wasn't offended and thought it was cute despite it how weird it been.)

The feral side also fights much differently. Kaiju No.8 is calculated in his strikes and won't hesitate to use all of his body. Tearing out chunks of flesh through razor sharp teeth, goring via horns even turning his dorsal fins into long sharp blades for Sonic's Homing Attack: buzzsaw style.

Serious threats are dealt with quickly so they don't survive and become stronger. Kafka's kaiju won't even care for an interruption unless it's aimed at his core or a precious claim. You have to be a suicidal bastard for the latter since he will be extra vicious in his elimination next time.

In short, everyone is in a very wild ride with these headcanons being present. Especially if I go for Kaiju No.8 focused. That's all I have for now! Until next time, I'll see you later.

[that-left-turn]

Saw your post about advertising revenue going down. Subscriptions to AMC for Q1 went up while TOWL was airing. What are your hopes for TBOC drawing in new audiences for AMC? Do you think Caryl is a big enough draw and if not in its current state what needs to change?

Subscriptions going up while TOWL aired was good (for AMC). The question is if it's fans of that particular show dipping in and then dropping off? AMC can't appeal to the larger TWD fanbase for all the spinoffs. They've slimmed down, so they need to find ways to grow those individual audiences and they need to retain them for the longhaul.

The appeal of TBOC is in the lead characters and sadly, not the story. Zabel hasn't done his homework (which an incoming showrunner should do): he has either only watched the montage and final scene of the flagship show, or he's relying on what other EPs have told him about the characters and their arcs. That's why he thought Ezekiel was Daryl's friend, since he was there to see Daryl off in the series finale.

Contrary to what you'd believe from looking at the fandom and the loudest screaming individuals, Carol resonates with the general audience, so seeing her again will probably draw curious viewers, but will they stick around? It depends largely on how her character arc is handled and also, her relationship with Daryl. They have natural chemistry, which the show should capitalize on as it comes with a built-in audience.

Will it, though?

From what I know about TBOC, Carol and Daryl's individual arcs merge at the end of block 2/beginning of block 3, so 204-205-ish. That means half the season has them separated. That's not ideal for a show where the main appeal lies in the relationship between the leads (whether romantic or platonic). Their emotional drives appear uneven, from my limited view of the beats, which might also be a viewer deterrent.

I think AMC needs to go all-in on canon once the storylines intersect—especially as it looks like we're in for some heavy nunbaiting—to at least get some good word of mouth and maybe draw back parts of the audience who've given up on the show. There were people who stopped watching TWD in S7-8 who came back after the original Caryl spinoff was announced. Having a loyal core audience is vital, so the studio needs to insure that those viewers are invested and engaged.

The show also needs a story engine. The escort mission in S1 had little urgency, beyond Daryl looking for a radio, and the actual meat and potatoes of the external plot was nondescript. Laurent was said (prophesied, really, by a Buddhist monk) to be the new Messiah who will "save humanity." It's very fuzzy on the details and not in a way that implies mystery. It screams of hand waving. The show has to draw in horror fans with a season arc that services the genre.

Caryl fans would watch for a good emotional arc and the GA should be treated to a well-conceived external plot. If you can cater to both of those demographics, you can grow the audience (because people tell others when they like a show) but it hinges on tight storytelling. You have to have an actual detailed plan and not a vague idea of where you're going—pantsing might work for a novelist, but never for a screenwriter. There's an A story, a B story and you may have a couple of runners, for the season as well as individual episodes, so a TV show requires organization. (And I'm getting off-topic here, so I'll leave the logistics at that.)

I'm not confident in TBOC based on what I know of Zabel's writing in general, his management of S1, his statements to the media and what I know about TBOC. I think the show needs a redirect into a different subgenre and some fresh ideas that showcase McReedus playing off each other and Caryl being thrust into the unfamiliar (both to the characters and the audience)—we need to see something new while the characters stay in-character to tether them to the character development already done on the flagship show. (And now I've written 'character' so many times that the word has lost all meaning 🙈)

Zabel played loose and fast with Daryl's backstory in S1. Fans are invested in those details and if it's made it to screen, the showrunner can't ignore them to shoehorn the already well-established protagonist into a plot involving new characters. He shouldn't love his own original creations more than the actual main character. All of these things give me pause as to Zabel's suitability as a showrunner for a show that already has a preexisting ecosystem.

That said, it looks like the show is getting delayed to a fall premiere, promo seems to be on a hold and the season finale may still be in post, which could be signs of AMC fixing problems and/or changing direction.

Sorry the answer was neither short nor succinct, but I hope it gave some clarity regarding my thought process. Obviously, like everybody else, I have ideas of what I'd do to increase ratings, but I'm not the person in the hot seat 🙃 I'm waiting for the panel at Tribeca to see what I can decipher from the inevitable sell speak.

It may be a long summer for us.

[leemahblog]

7 Top Rated K-Drama Series You Should Watch

K-dramas are loved for their exciting stories and great characters. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to K-dramas, there’s always something fun to watch. Here are seven top-rated K-drama series you should check out. From sweet romance to thrilling action, these shows have something for everyone.

Let’s dive in and see why these series are so popular:

1. My Demon

My Demon tells the story of heiress Do Do Hee and Jung Koo Won, a powerful entity. When Jung Koo Won loses his powers, he must work with Do Do Hee to get them back. As they team up, sparks fly between them, making for a thrilling and romantic journey. This series mixes supernatural elements with a strong love story, keeping viewers hooked from the start.

2. Alchemy of Souls

Alchemy of Souls is a fantasy drama that dives into the world of magic and soul swapping. The series follows the story of a powerful sorceress, trapped in a blind woman’s body, who meets a man from a prestigious family seeking her help to change his destiny. With its enchanting plot and captivating characters, “Alchemy of Souls” is a must-watch for fans of fantasy and adventure.

Also Read: Top 5 Romance Movies You Should See on Netflix

3. Queen of Tears

Queen of Tears tells the story of the queen of department stores and the prince of supermarkets who face a marital crisis. Just when it seems all hope is lost, love begins to bloom again, bringing a touch of romance and redemption to their lives. This heartfelt drama captures the ups and downs of marriage, making it a compelling watch for those who enjoy emotional and uplifting stories.

4. Guardian: The Lonely and Great God

Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, also known as Goblin, is a fantasy drama that follows the story of Kim Shin, an immortal goblin who needs a human bride to end his cursed immortality. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Ji Eun-Tak, a high school student who can see ghosts and claims to be his bride. This series is renowned for its beautiful storytelling, memorable characters, and a perfect blend of romance and fantasy.

5. Descendants of the Sun

Descendants of the Sun is a popular South Korean drama that combines romance with action and military themes. The story centers on a skilled Special Forces captain, Yoo Si-jin, and a brilliant surgeon, Dr. Kang Mo-yeon, who meet and fall in love under extraordinary circumstances.

As they navigate their relationship, they face the challenges of working in a war-torn country, balancing their professional responsibilities with their personal lives. This series is well-loved for its engaging plot, strong performances, and captivating chemistry between the lead characters.

Also Read: 10 Must-Watch K-Drama Series on Amazon Prime Video

6. Parasyte: The Grey

Parasyte: The Grey is a gripping series where unidentified parasites invade human hosts and start taking over with alarming power. As these creatures grow more threatening, humanity faces a dire struggle to combat this new and dangerous menace. With intense action and suspense, this series dives into the fight for survival against an evolving threat, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

7. The Uncanny Counter

In The Uncanny Counter, a group of individuals with special abilities take on the task of hunting down evil spirits that prey on humans. Known as the Counters, these heroes use their unique powers to protect the living and bring justice to the spirit world. With a mix of thrilling action and supernatural elements, this series delivers an engaging story about courage and the fight against dark forces.

So there you have it seven top-rated K-drama series that you definitely shouldn’t miss. Each one brings its unique story, amazing characters, and plenty of excitement. From magical adventures and gripping romances to thrilling mysteries and emotional journeys, these shows offer something for everyone.

If you’re new to K-dramas or looking to add to your watchlist, these picks are a great place to start. Enjoy the shows and let us know which one is your favorite. Thanks for reading, and stay tuned to Leemah’s Blog for more great content.

[wumiings]

Gonna say something slightly controversial: Setting aside the argument over whether “I use it for you. Only for you” is a healthy/true/romantic statement or not, I don’t think that Arthur would find it romantically compelling.

I mean, we’re talking about a man whose most consistent virtue is his devotion to his people, his willingness to give up his own life for their well-being. “I only use my magic for you” might soothe a few ruffled feathers in the moment, since when Merlin first says it, Arthur is still deep in his anti-magic sentiments. But in the long term? As he takes on the task of unlearning his bigotry and coming to value Camelot’s magical citizens as much as its nonmagical ones, who will he come to respect more: the man whom he believes spent years blindly devoting himself to a king who actively persecuted his people in an act of near-obsessive romantic love? Or the man whom he knows has been struggling towards the same thing Arthur most wants— peace and prosperity for all the people of Camelot— even before Arthur himself was capable of recognizing that sorcerers should be included in that number?

Arthur came to love and respect Gwen because she stood up to him, corrected his poor behavior, and expected him to demonstrate more respect for people of lower birth like herself. She made him a better king. Yes, she loves and supports him as an individual. Yes, she makes sacrifices for his sake (ex. taking care of an ailing Uther despite the great harm he has done her). But her life doesn’t revolve around Arthur; she has interiority.

And if Guinevere is meant to represent the Voice of the Common People, it’s made just as clear in-text that Merlin is meant to be the Voice of Magic. Stating that the only purpose of his gifts is to serve Arthur both suggests a complete failure to embody that role in the narrative and reinforces Arthur’s perception of Merlin as a subordinate rather than an equal. Nothing about Arthur’s characterization indicates to me that this is something he would appreciate/want in a romantic relationship.

[faulty-writes]

Perhaps this is more of a question than a request, as I want to hear your opinion on this. First of all, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your wonderful writings for Tenya. They give me a lot of serotonin, as you describe this boy just awesome. I kiss your golden hands and your forehead. You're just a miracle!

And now the very question. Most likely, you know that in Japan it is quite strict with interracial relationships and marriages. Especially from influential families. And I was interested in your opinion on this. What if romantic feelings can flare up between a foreign!reader and Tenya and/or Shoto, but how will their families react to this? I remember you wrote that Iida's mother and brother would even be happy and support this, since reader was interested in Tenya. Or can something change? With Todoroki, it seems to me that his brother and sister will be very happy, since Shoto is somewhat withdrawn. I can't say for sure about his parents, but it seems to me that Rei would be very intrigued, but Enji...I don't know.

That's it! Thank you for reading my question and my thoughts. If my question makes you uncomfortable, then delete it and forget it like a nightmare. Thanks again!

Alright, sorry for the wait. Thank you for enjoying my writing, my Tenya pieces are quite popular. I'm actually working on another one right now for another writing bang, so that should be fun. This post will go under 'read more' because it's kind of long.

It is time for my psychology student skills to shine! I want to say that every culture has its own beliefs and values. These beliefs and values usually reflect traditional aspects, which means conflicts will always exist when modern beliefs and values are introduced.

According to Nitta (1988), interracial relationships and intermarrying between Japanese men and non-Japanese individuals have steadily increased since 1975. I anticipate the only conflict that would arise from the Iida family if Tenya had romantic feelings for or was in a relationship with a foreign!reader would come from his father.

According to the show, Tenya's father adheres to traditional values, and traditionally, the man is in charge of the household and the family, which means his values and beliefs are constantly imposed on the other family members. It is safe to assume that Tenya's father's pride in the Iida family history has also rubbed off on him.

This is shown throughout the series because Tenya enjoys praising the Iida family name. There is, however, evidence that Tensei is not necessarily following these traditional values and beliefs, as depicted in one episode where we see a flashback into Tenya's past which shows a scene of him, his brother, and his father sitting at the dinner table.

It's during this scene their father praises Tensei for his heroism, as well as the number of sidekicks he has following him. However, Tensei does not fully accept the praise, stating that he could not have achieved his status as a hero without the assistance of his sidekicks. Additionally, it is evident how much Tenya looks up to Tensei. Therefore, I believe that Tenya's beliefs are largely influenced by his older brother. Accordingly, I believe that Tenya's mother and brother would be willing to accept whatever romantic venture Tenya chooses to pursue, regardless of whether it is with a foreigner or not.

Of course, Tensei would be the most supportive, asking the foreign!reader all kinds of questions regarding their country of origin. It is also likely that he would thank them for taking an interest in his younger brother. Tenya's mother would also demonstrate this type of support, as she is likely only concerned about her son's happiness. Because of her husband's traditional ways, I also believe that she would remain friendly, but not to the point of provoking confrontation with her husband who is likely to disapprove of the relationship.

As with the Iida family, I believe that the only point of conflict for Shoto getting involved with a foreign!reader would, of course, be Enji. Although I believe Enji holds some beliefs and values about traditional aspects, his possible disapproval of his son's relationship with a foreigner would likely stem from what he wants from Shoto. Furthermore, he is likely to worry that any type of relationship, romantic or otherwise, will interfere with his son's ability to become a hero.

However, it is also possible that due to Enji's desire to improve himself as a father and husband, he may accept whatever relationship Shoto chooses to pursue even if he does not approve of it because of his deep-rooted fear of being abandoned by his family. It is well known that Shoto's sister, Fuyumi, is very accepting of her brother. This is evident in one episode where she thanks Izuku for befriending Shoto. She knows he is antisocial and needs a relationship to help him grow.

I believe that Rei would have the same mindset. Although she had previously been afraid of Enji, it is evident that she is a fierce woman who will do anything to protect and support her family. In other words, even if Enji disagreed with Shoto's relationship with a foreign!reader, she would take it with a grain of salt. She would encourage Shoto to continue to follow his heart. As for Natsuo, I believe that he would also be accepting, although less accepting than Fuyumi and his mother, and more protective. Likely, he would ask a few questions about the reader and be prepared to intervene if they hurt his younger brother.

[cardboardboxy]

Rick shouldn't've ended Hero's of Olympus with everyone in a 'happy' relationship

Heres why :)

So happy is in quotes because piper had textbook comphet and caleo existed, but there wasn't any indication that those couples were going to break up, but I'm going to go through each couple and explain what could've been done better in my opinion

Percabeth: I absolutely love percabeth, but I dislike the fact that almost all lighthearted interactions these two had were with eachother or with people collectively, there was hardly any bonding that they experienced separately which isn't great

Frazel: Setting aside the... questionable age gap, they were very fast paced which logically doesn't make much sense. They were in a very fast paced environment and a lot of their interactions were in high stress situations which isn't the best for getting to know eachother, excusing trauma bonding which shouldn't be used as the basis for a long term relationship, they really had no reason to get together until later on in HoO or potentially even after, so they would've had time to actually form a relationship beyond both of them having crushes and being friends

Jiper: The main issues in their relationship are pointed out in ToA, piper was manipulated by hera/juno to believe she had feelings for jason. I'm unsure whether or not its actually mentioned directly, but jason also felt obligated (in the beginning) to get with piper due to piper having memories of them as a couple. Both of these caused the pair to lack chemistry

Caleo: Apologies to caleo lovers for what comes next. These two are only together because leo is desperate and calypso was cursed, none of their romantic interactions feel natural and their personalities completely clash. In ToA leo talks about him having how calypso would hate him talking about their relationship like a machine even though that kind of thinking is hardwired into his being as a son of hepheastus, which means leo would have to completely change himself in order for him to be palatable to calypso

As individuals they also have issues, leo feels out of place with his own friends and feels inadequate when he isn't in a relationship, the solution to that is to work through whatever is causing those feelings and ideally to strengthen his connection with his friends outside of life or death settings. The last thing leo should do is jump into a relationship with the first girl who reciprocates his interest, let alone one who was cursed to do so

Calypso hasn't had a platonic relationship for over a thousand years, she needs to acclimatise to the current world and create multiple connections before getting into a romantic relationship. The only reason Calypso even remotely likes leo is because of her curse, without it she would still see him as an irratating brat and I doubt she'd even consider him a friend, if her love curse ever faded she'd also probably feel an obligation to stay with leo considering he freed her from basically eternal imprisonment

This concludes my yap session 👍

[vinosities]

A great many birdwatchers—from those who simply maintain feeders in their gardens to those, more obsessed, who wander the world in search of new and better birds—have stumbled onto a seductive truth: paying attention to birds, being mindful of them, is being mindful of Life itself. We seldom think of it this clearly, but sometimes, unexpectedly, we are overtaken by a sense of wonder and gratitude. Surely it is the encounter with a force much larger than ourselves that moves us.

Recently I was in the Canadian Arctic. We'd put ashore on the south coast of Hudson Strait and were walking in an expansively beautiful river valley when one of our party spotted a white phase gyrfalcon perched on a boulder high on the opposite hill. These are wonderful birds, fiercely majestic and much coveted by wealthy falconers. As we watched, it launched itself, dashing low over the ancient rocks in pursuit of a passing raven—whereupon the chase was on. Desperately twisting and turning, the raven seemed at each instant about to be caught. Then another raven appeared. This second one was clearly striving to position itself so it could help its companion should the gyrfalcon manage to seize it. As the pursuit went on, with the white bird hard on the black bird's tail, I sensed something akin to the notion of fateful inevitability that drives classical tragedy. Raven, the Trickster and wolf-bird, is one of my favorite birds and yet the gyrfalcon is equally wondrous; further more, it needed to eat the Raven in order to survive. That's the way things often are.

But not this time. The white bird eventually gave up and returned to preen on its boulder, and the ravens settled to the ground halfway down the hill. Then I noticed a third raven circling effortlessly above the valley. Our guide said it had been there all along. Perhaps the gyrfalcon had decided it wouldn't be wise to take on three ravens at once. The chase may even have turned into a joyful form of serious play.

At its best, in its heightened moments, birdwatching can encourage a state of being close to rapture—the forgetfulness that blends the individual consciousness with something other than itself. Some people call it "flow," others "enlightenment." We can't predict these moments, nor can we fully recapture them, because—in some odd way—they have no content. It's only afterwards, when the self returns—with all its familiar baggage—that we recognize the fact that something utterly liberating has occurred.

{...} Hope—whether Blessed or otherwise—must be taken on faith. Hardy's Darkling Thrush is an aged bird, "frail, gaunt, and small," that nevertheless sings ecstatically. The poet can't for the life of him see what's prompted the creature to "fling his soul / Upon the growing gloom." All he can conclude is that the bird knows something he doesn't. Despite its decrepit condition, its song is charged with the passionate energy of life; and that, after all, is at the heart of everything, including Hope itself. Some will say that this is a highly Romantic notion, especially in our age. And so it is. And I find it exhilarating.

— Graeme Gibson, The Bedside Book of Birds

[tasmiq]

Jumu'ah Sohbet: 27 September 2024

This week was where I gratefully realised why I have always shirked counseling from a Psychologist or even a Psychiatrist. They predominantly bring their knowledge gained from secular sources and, therefore, are perceivably hollow without spiritual insights and foresights. A flash of the obvious again dawned on my consciousness, that I have indeed gained a 'life coach' through Sufism, which has completed the jigsaw puzzle of my life in its past, present and future. Insha'Allah, this insight remains my foresight as I spontaneously reflected with your Aunty Amira, without (ego) and within (to Allah).

#1. Let's begin with our virtual catch-up with your Aunty Amira herself. Within our various different contexts, we reflected on how a socially just and progressive programme amidst humanity can almost immediately lead to its direct opposite. We were puzzling to understand what makes mankind so prone to such polarised behaviour.

Inherently, I was left reflecting on Sufi Psychology where it is testament to humanity's downfall in following their own free will. How gracious was/is Allah to have faith in us to choose Him, and how foolish we can be as humanity that fall trapped in following our nafs (lower-self / ego) and/or Shaytaan's evil will, instead!

#2. Our heartsmith Shaykh Nishaat powerfully reflected that we sometimes go through life, where nothing may change. Neither our perceptions nor our understanding. However, Allah and the Prophet (SAW) are still in charge. And, Alhamdulillah that we're programmed to be open-minded Sufis. In our lives, Allah creates certain opportunities to learn Him. For every situation that we find ourselves in, Allah is the Creator of it, and He owns it. In that situation, He also creates opportunities for us to reflect and manifest His attributes.

Allah says in the Qur'an that we can react in three ways, but forgiveness is better! It is an opportunity for us to manifest and practice forgiveness. But, most of us choose not to take that opportunity, and we focus on what has happened in front of us and judging others. We can use these opportunities to learn patience, mercy, give love, be kind, generous, and so on. Allah is the Creator of opportunities in our lives. Whether we accept or don't, is our choice or free will.

#3. Our beloved heartsmith next made a personally poignant reflection. When something happens like our accident, we cannot simply blame Allah for it as a curse! It took three years for me to see that Allah is creating an opportunity for me to earnestly learn and serve Him. After all, Allah assures us that all good is from Him, and evil and bad are from what He created in us humans. We therefore have to overcome the evil within His creation that we created ourselves. We have to use the opportunities in every moment to see what Allah is showing us. What should we be learning from it? Not what others should be learning and instead what we ought to be because it is our individual path and journey.

The Sufi path is a hard path because we face ourselves in every moment. This is why our Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said that we are moving from the small jihad (social or political struggle) to the big jihad (the struggle against one's own passions and impulses). The jihad of the nafs is the big jihad. The reality that we inevitably have to accept is that all good is from Allah, and the bad and evil is from that which He created. However, we have to foremost recognise the nafs within us before we look at the other person.

#4. Given new additions to our spiritual family, Anne (our spiritual mother) sweetly and deeply clarified some protocols and adhab (respect) in our relationship as murids (Sufi tariqa followers):

- We have a mutual understanding that we don't engage the details of romantic relationships or business matters. The spiritual emphasis is always on what we as individuals need to learn from a particular situation.

- As a later murid of Shaykh Taner, her own mother initially assumed that life was harder as Sufis. However, it is just about using our lives as a learning platform to get to know and get closer to Allah.

- In the world, we are like fish swimming in water and always wondering where Allah is and what water itself is. "That is humanity because we are literally swimming in Allah, and even that is within our unique flow in that!"

- Anne clarified that although she's friendly in nature, she can't be like a normal friend and instead a spiritual mother to us.

- We are Sufis because we want to know our relationship with Allah, where we discover a certain sweetness and healing there. It is like bees making honey from certain flowers. We Sufis make honey with certain flowers. Whatever flower we are taking the pollen out of, that is what our honey is going to smell and taste like. The miracle of flowers and bees is that there is a magnetic field around the plant, and it signals the bee that it has pollen. There are certain situations that Allah makes us live to teach us and make a certain flavour to our "honey" or purpose. Subhana'Allah (Divine glory) for such intricate and subtle realities that we share our world with!

Above: Your Nana and Nanu's (maternal grandparents) poetic tree from which your swings are hoisted to, that houses not only a busy beehive but a blue-headed lizard which we discovered. Shukran Ya Allah (Divine gratitude)!

#5. Anne declared that this year's homework is for us to familiarise ourselves with the Murids Manual. What saved me from drowning in self-pity as an accident survivor three years on and made me surrender to the natural logic of Sufism was your Abbu's same idea of reading it.

This time, I was blown away by Anne's reading of the levels of the nafs and why it is not prioritised within our Sufi Tariqa. "All seven levels of nafs have a Nafs al-Ammara (commanding ego)! Each level has the other seven levels within it. This is why we don't compare people, lessons, or dreams!" Anne clarifying the extent of complexity in dealing with nafs oddly provided a balm to my bruised spiritual chemistry because it explained how we as humanity can get ourselves in a tizzy, at the best of times!

In conclusion, Shukran Ya Allah (eternal Divine gratitude) that we have developed Sufi perception points which makes Sufi Psychology a relevant and medicine-free self-help tool.

[insaneiceshard]

Chapter 1

After polishing it up a bit, I think I'm ready to post the first chapter of my fanfic! Right now it goes by "In the flames we dance like fairies, as a lonely person turns to dust" (Heavily inspired by a kikou song lyric) but that might change as I write more(hopefully). Also for context, if you aren't @melissa-titanium, you should probably know this came from an ask(spawned from this post originally) where I got really excited about SaintxGourmand, so this is technically a ship fanfic. Though fyi I'll be writing it more as a platonic ship than a romantic one.

So Here it is! <3

Whatever they were expecting would happen when their iterator died, it definitely wasn't trodding through a leech-infested jungle. The last dozen cycles were hectic. Dance of a Dozen Pearls had tried and failed at re-establishing their communication networks. Their pier’s arrays, eroded to stakes in their cans, had firmly established that if they were going to send the triple affirmative it would have to be through unconventional means. Saint would ponder how truly unconventional they were, if only they were not preoccupied with prying off the steady stream of bugs trying to eat them alive. Tall and thin trees hid the sun from view, making it hard to see if they were still heading south, and even harder to navigate over thick and slippery roots. The cold wet mud under their feet was a far cry from the warm metal of their living quarters. Taking step after step, the cacophony of the fauna around them was nearly deafening, the schlup-plunck of their footsteps only occasionally broken up by crawling over muddy terrain. It was all driving them mad. 

Taking the Southern exit might’ve been a poor decision. They could have waited out the collapse of their can down in the subterranean levels of the complex. But, somehow the idea of sitting in a creature den, waiting for however many cycles it took for their iterator to collapse, was worse than the idea of being buried alive. So the jungle would have to do.

 Saint swatted another fly away. They considered whether ascending the bugs around them would be worth it, but the thought that simple bugs could ascend lightened the chaotic mood a bit. All the work Dance had put into them. The constant tests, the studying of ancient texts, the countless cycles where they stripped all their karmic desires away. All of it, to result in a swarm of dead bugs at the feet of the first truly ascended individual. Saint let out a tiny chuckle as they pushed through thick grass, only to halt to a stop as the sun blinded them. After rubbing their eyes to adjust to the sudden brightness, the sight of a vast ocean pocked with islands was revealed, the water glittering ahead from the sun's reflections. From everything their robotic mother taught them, swimming was an unfortunate oversight.

They stood on the shore, gazing out at the islands ahead. Now that the jungle was behind them, they could see Dance’s closest neighbour on the horizon. Saint spend many of their early cycles up on top of Dance’s can. This neighbour seemed so much closer from up there. Saint rubbed their face as they let out a strained whine. She made this sound easy. She never taught them what to do after they succeeded, never had the time. She didn’t wait long before she-.

Saint ripped their paws from their face and wadded into the water. Wetness seeped deep into their fur, instantly making them cold. The cold water wasn’t unfamiliar to them, comforting warmth was a karmic desire after all. But the slow creep of the water level was new. 

They could do this. 

As they strayed farther from the shore, the water slowly made its way up their body. The surface their feet met was a cold metal, which bit into the skin of their paw pads. Each step harder to take than the last. Saint tried to breathe slow and steady, just as she taught them to, but each breath they took hurt, and only wadding faster into the water soothed their lungs. The water, which was now up to their chest, made it hard for their fur to conserve any warmth left in their body. Saint remembered a story Dance told them, of an aquatic creature built to survive in the coldest waters at the poles. It had a thick layer of fat and short waterproof fur that helped it keep warm. Saint remarked that they were nothing like that thing, they were built with only a single, holy, purpose. Saint tried to keep their head above the water, taking short steps to try and find higher ground. 

Suddenly, they were plunged into the freezing depths. Surrounded on all sides by the ice water, her voice called out to them, to kick, to claw their way back to the surface. But they knew she was gone. Saint sank deeper and deeper, the sun above them growing faint. She could never guide them anymore. Never recount stories of old. The water dug out the air from their lungs. Sinking far deeper than what they thought possible, the water was dark from the surface, after all. The ocean looked like the night sky, now that they think of it. Never read them the pearls they dug up. Never tell them of the poetry they loved, cherished, despised. Never again.

Saint’s pounding heartbeat slowed. 

Never again.