#and that its also flexible enough but also slow enough currently that no one even noticed

[knoxprox]

Sometimes you have to get food delivered that is absolutely close enough you could’ve picked it up yourself if it wasn’t your first meal of the day at 4:30 pm because you cycled between napping & dissociating all day instead of eating

[bethanythebogwitch]

It's big, it's strong, its scaly, it's this week's Wet Beast Wednesday topic! An arapaima, also known as a pirarucu or paiche, is any of four species of fish in the genus Arapaima in the order of bony-tongued fish. There is som ongoing debate about the classification of the species, so to keep thing simple, I'm going to use the most common species names of Arapaima gigas (the type species and most well known, and the one with the most confusion about its classification), Arapaima agassizii, Arapaima leptosoma, and Arapaima mapae. Because A. gigas is the most well-studied of the species, unless I say otherwise you can assume everything I say in this post applies to it.

(image: an arapaima)

Arapaimas are bony fish that retain several primitive traits, causing them to sometimes be identified as "living fossils". They are most notable for their size, with A. gigas being a contender for the largest freshwater fish in the world. The maximum recorded size for one was 3.7 meters (10 ft) and 200 kg (400 lbs), but most get to around 2 meters (6.6 ft) long and 200 kg (440 lbs). That average length is decreasing as overfishing of the largest individuals is resulting in a selective pressure for smaller sizes. In addition to their size, they are extremely strong and can move fast if needed. Arapaima are fully capable of leaping out of the water if disturbed or they feel their current pond in unsuitable. Because of their strength, specimens in captivity must be handled with care as they can easy break bones if they slap someone. They live in rivers and lakes in South America, where they are often the top predators.

(image: several anglers with an arapaima)

Arapaimas are obligate air-breathers and will drown if they can't get to the surface to breathe. This is accomplished with a specialized swim bladder. The swim bladder is filled with highly vascularized tissue, letting it act like a lung. This pseudo-lung opens into the mouth using a modified gill arch known as the labyrinth organ. Arapaima gills are too small to sustain them, but they can supplement their oxygen intake with the gills. Juveniles are born exclusively using their gills and transition into air-breathers shortly after hatching. Arapaimas can survive up to a full day out of the water. They typically surface to gulp in air every 15-20 minutes. Breathing makes a loud gulping sound that anglers use to target them.

(image: an arapaima at the surface)

Because of their ability to breathe air, arapaimas are top predators in low-oxygen environments. Non-air breathing fish are forced to slow down in water with low levels of dissolved oxygen as they can't get enough oxygen through their gills. Since Arapaimas breathe air, they can easily chase down lethargic smaller fish. They are especially potent predators during the low season, when water levels lower. A combination of rotting vegetation reducing oxygen levels and ponds getting cut off from rivers and losing a supply of oxygen lets the arapaima reign supreme. Arapaimas are primarily predators that feed on smaller fish, though they will hunt other types of animals and eat fruits and seeds. Even land animals aren't safe as arapaimas have been known to launch themselves out of the water to catch animals near the shore. A combination of sharp teeth and their bony tongues are used to debilitate prey.

(image: an arapaima with its mouth open)

Not content with powerleveling their attack stat, arapaimas also have excellent defense. Their scales have been compared to bullet proof vests. Each has a hard, mineralized outer layer over multiple layers of collagen fibers. These layers are all oriented at an angle to each other to provide extra strength. This orientation of layers is called a Bouligand-type arrangement and is similar to how plywood is assembled. The harder outer layers and flexible inner layers work together to allow for both strength and flexibility. These scales help provide protection form large predators such as caiman and small threats like biting piranha. They also like provide protection from other arapaima, as the fish are aggressive and will fight each other.

(image: a diagram showing the composition of arapaima scales. source)

You probably wouldn't expect a swimming tank of an animal to be a good parent, but you'd be wrong. Arapaimas work together in mated pairs to build nests for their eggs, then cooperate to guard the nest. Once the eggs hatch, the male will practice mouth brooding, keeping his young safe in his mouth. The female will also help by patrolling the area around the male to ward off predators. They secrete pheromones from their heads to ensure the young don't swim too far away. Eggs are laid either in in the low season or as water levels are starting to rise, ensuring that the young become independent during the high season.

(Image: baby arapaimas)

Arapaima are classified as "data deficient" by the IUCN. This means there isn't enough data to properly assess their conservation needs. They are known to be threatened by overfishing. Arapaima make up a large part of the diet of many South American populations. Habitat loss and pollution are also believed to threaten them. They have been introduced to many areas out of their native range and are an invasive species in placed like Florida, Malaysia, and India.

Does anyone else remember these cards? (image: the arapaima card from Weird n' Wild Creatures)

[sotwk]

Behind the Scenes: SotWK's Writing Process

Welcome to a little "behind the scenes" of my attempts to keep my growing list of WIPS and story requests/ideas organized!

My Fic and HC Requests are (for the most part), always open, and open to Anons. Occasionally, I also invite requests in relation to writing events or games. Needless to say, I get quite a lot of requests, and I am both flattered and thrilled by that.

However, I also work full-time (albeit always in front of a computer), and I have two little kids (who attend preschool, whew), so I have much less time to focus on writing than most creators here.

But I love writing, and I love using it to make people happy even more. My rule is, I will accept any requests (that reasonably fall within my guidelines, but I can be flexible!) as long as you can wait patiently for me to deliver on them. I always give my best effort to make it worth your while, and I will never ignore your request or give up on it without checking with you first (yes, this includes Anons).

I have no wait list. I do not work on requests "in the order they were received". I work on whatever story speaks to and cooperates with me that day, and that means shuffling amongst up to five WIPs at a time. That's simply how my brain works, unfortunately.

All my fanfics / your requests are always, and forever will be, FREE. They're gifts I am honored to give.

I am constantly saying, "I'm working on it" or "It's on my list", and I would like to offer just a bit of proof of that. So, especially for those who have been waiting a long time (and those who might have to wait even longer), I present my Google Drive's Organized Chaos to show how I keep all those WIPs in check:

Drafts in Progress: Stories that are closest to completion, and the ones I am currently trying to focus on.

Drafts on Hold: Drafts that I have started, but have stalled, so they're on the back burner for now.

Headcanons: I usually draft my headcanon requests straight on Tumblr, but sometimes they go on here.

Ask Screenshots: Where I save Asks that I responded to/deleted, but I needed to save the text for the sake of notes. Also lovely Asks that I save for posterity.

Valentine Event: I received so many Asks for this event that it required its own folder.

Gifted Graphics: Always hoping for new contributions to this one! (not subtle enough?)

And now, for my Fic Tracker Spreadsheet, which tracks ALL Tolkien fics I write, both requests and my personal projects:

I redacted the "Requestor" column to preserve some surprises. I track the estimated "Status" aka percentage of completion as a way to motivate myself, because getting to that blessed 100% is the Holy Grail for me!

WIP: Every fic that's on the "front burner" and I'm actively fighting to complete.

Requests/Concepts: Contains details of all requests and ideas I have which will eventually jump into the WIP tab.

Valentine: Remember how I said I received so many responses to this event? Yeah. I'm still determined to finish them all, though!

To Read: Yup, I track all the fics of friends that I intent to read here, too. That's how important those are to me.

I truly hope all this info doesn't scare anyone off from sending in more requests! I hope this gives Readers/Followers a little more faith in me and show that I take all requests I receive very seriously. They are the most important part of what I do as a fanfic writer.

I may be slow, but I'm committed and determined!

If you have any questions about the above, or about your requests, I'm open! Please keep sending in requests! Thank you for your support and patience!

Link to my FANFIC REQUEST GUIDELINES

Tagging some of those folks who are currently waiting on requests: @quickslvxrr @laneynoir @ladyweaslette @scyllas-revenge @lathalea @g-m-kaye @absentmindeduniverse @aduialel @friendofthefellowshipsnerdblog @jordie-your-local-halfling @ladyk8tie @blueberryrock @the-phantom-of-arda @tamurilofrivendell @achromaticerebus @klytemnestra13 @glassgulls @the-fragile-heart-of-a-lady @guardianofrivendell @a-burr-a-hobbit @literary-eclair

[designlabpune]

Web Design Agency Tips for Creating a Stylish and Responsive Site

In today’s digital world, having a well-designed and responsive website is essential for any business to thrive. Having an online store or offering services makes your website crucial in shaping how potential customers perceive your brand. At DesignLab, a top Web design and development company located in Pune, we focus on building websites that offer both visual appeal and distinctive user engagement. In this article, we provide useful advice on how to design a visually appealing website that is user-friendly and yields positive outcomes.

What is Responsive Design?

A responsive design guarantees your website appears and functions effectively on various devices like desktops, tablets, and mobile phones. As more people use smartphones, having a mobile-responsive website is crucial. This entails that your website needs to adapt its design and functionalities to various screen sizes while still providing a good user experience.

Why a Stylish Website Matters

First impressions are crucial, and your website is often the first interaction a potential customer has with your brand. A stylish, well-designed website can capture attention and leave a lasting impression. On the other hand, a poorly designed website may turn visitors away. As a Website design expert, here are some essential elements to consider:

1. Visual Appeal

Your website should be visually appealing and consistent with your brand identity. Use colors, fonts, and graphics that reflect your business values. Make sure the overall design is clean, modern and uncluttered.

DesignLab, we use integrated CMS development tools to help you create visually appealing websites that are also easy to maintain.

2. User-Friendly Navigation

Good guidance is essential to a good experience. Make it easy for visitors to find what they’re looking for with clear, intuitive menus and buttons. Whether you’re on an online marketing website or a company blog, users can navigate your site effortlessly.

3. Fast Loading Time

No one wants to wait for a website to load. If your site takes too long to load, visitors may leave in search of other options. Optimize your images, reduce file size, and use fast and reliable hosting solutions to ensure fast delivery. For businesses using e-commerce websites, fast loading times are even more important to ensure customers don’t abandon their carts.

Key Features of A Responsive Website

Creating a mobile-friendly website takes more than just scaling down your desktop layout to fit smaller screens. Here are some best practices to ensure your website is automated:

1. Flexible Layouts

Your system should adjust itself to different screen sizes. Use a simple web design and make sure your website content is large enough.

2. Optimized Images and Media 

Large images can slow down your site, especially on mobile devices. Make sure to use optimized images that maintain their quality without affecting the site’s speed. A responsive design will automatically resize images for different devices. 

3. Touchscreen Compatibility

Since many users will be browsing your website on a smartphone or tablet, ensure that buttons, links, and forms are optimized for touchscreen interaction. Larger buttons and touch-friendly elements will make your site more user-friendly.

4. Cross-Browser Compatibility 

Your website should function seamlessly across different browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. Testing your site on multiple browsers ensures a consistent experience for all users, regardless of their preferred browser.

Why Choose a CMS for Your Website?

Utilizing a CMS like WordPress or personalized .NET software development simplifies updating and managing websites, regardless of the need for extensive coding skills. Whether it's a WordPress site or a tailored solution, a CMS streamlines the process to ensure your website remains current.

Here are some reasons to choose a CMS for your website:

Ease of Use: Content management systems are easy to use, enabling simple editing, image uploading, and blog post management.

SEO-Friendly: The majority of CMS platforms include integrated SEO features to boost your website's visibility in search engine rankings.

Scalability: Your website should expand as your business expands. CMS platforms have the capability to incorporate additional pages, functionalities, and plugins without requiring a complete overhaul.

The Importance of Website Maintenance

Designing an attractive and mobile-friendly website is only the first step. Consistent maintenance of your website is crucial to keep it functioning properly. This involves enhancing software, addressing bugs, enhancing website security, and incorporating new features.

DesignLab, we provide thorough website maintenance services to guarantee the safety, functionality, and current status of your website. We take care of everything from CMS updates to plugin management so that you can concentrate on your business operations.

E-Commerce Websites: Going Beyond Style

A well-crafted website is crucial for the success of businesses that depend on e-commerce platforms. In addition to aesthetics, an e-commerce site needs to be operational, easy to use, and safe. Your clients can enjoy a smooth shopping experience from start to finish, from browsing to finalizing the checkout process.

If you are looking to start or improve your eCommerce website, it is essential to incorporate fundamental elements like payment gateways, filters, and a user-friendly purchasing process. We have expertise in creating mobile-friendly and responsive designs specifically tailored for online stores, guaranteeing your customers a top-notch shopping experience across all devices.

Custom Development for Your Unique Needs

Every business has its own distinguishing characteristics, and your website should showcase those qualities. At DesignLab, we provide tailored .NET software development and vb.net application solutions to meet your individual requirements. We collaborate with you to develop a solution that aligns with your business objectives, whether it be a tailored eCommerce website or a corporate site.

Conclusion

Creating a stylish and responsive website is essential for any business in today’s competitive landscape. By focusing on key elements like responsive design, user-friendly navigation, and fast loading times, you can ensure that your website not only looks good but also functions perfectly across all devices.

DesignLab, a premier Web Development in Pune agency, specializes in delivering high-quality websites that help businesses thrive online. Whether you need a WordPress website, CMS development, or a fully custom solution, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to get started on your next project and take your online presence to the next level.

For more information, visit our website: www.design-lab.co.in.

[bloxfruitsvalues]

Rumble Blox Fruit Value

About No Content Blox Fruit

Rumble is a fruit in the game Blox Fruits which is a part of the Legendary Elemental-type category. It was added into the game on June 30th, 2019 as part of the Balancing Update. The Rumble Blox Fruit Value is 2,100,000 Beli or 2,100 Robux. Because it has such stunning abilities and combos as well as high damage output PvP (Player versus Player) players love using this fruit due to its versatility. Working on grinding with elemental immunity but keep in mind that those who use rubber are completely immune to any kind of attack from rumble.

Pros & Cons

Normal No Content Blox Fruit Pros

Elemental Immunity: Most non Haki attacks cannot harm you if you eat this. Versatile Combat: With stuns that are effective for Sword mains, Gun mains and even Fruit mains because it has large AoE (Area of Effect) attacks. Stun/Combo Potential: Perfect for chaining hits together during pvp fights. Efficient Grinding: Has strong AOE skills making it one among top fruits used for grinding purposes. High Trade Value: Commands a high value when trading within a community

Awakened No Content Blox Fruit Pros

Enhanced Stuns: The normal version doesn't stun as hard as awakened does. Aerial Superiority: Very good at fighting while airborne.

Normal No Content Blox Fruit Cons

Rubber Immunity: All rumble moves fail against rubber users since they’re immune to them all anyway! Slow Movements: Attacks take a long time to start up so need predictive abilities. Poor Aerial Combat: Not great for fighting in air battles . Dodging: Can be easily dodged due to its slow movement speed. High Startup Cost: Takes much time to start attacking. Not Suitable for Quick Combat: If you want a fruit with fast startup attacks then this is not it.

Awakened No Content Blox Fruit Cons

Rubber Immunity: No effect on people with rubber powers still.

No Content Blox Fruit Value

Value ranges depending if it’s in a permanent or physical form. The physical fruit which can be bought at 2,100,000 Beli (2.1 million) has an 8/10 demand rate meaning there are quite a few people wanting them. When trading these fruits they usually go for about 6,000,000 Beli (6.0 million) which is fair and currently going up as more players are finding out how useful they can be in the game. On the other hand,the permanent fruit is worth 2,100 robux or 210,000,000 (210 million) Beli in trading value. It has a demand rating of 10 out of 10 so people really want this one but many consider it overpriced because of its huge benefits and rarity among others like it.The fact that it's worth keeps rising shows that it must have some importance within Blox Fruits as being strong and rare items.

Final Words

The Rumble Blox Fruit is highly valued within the universe of Blox Fruits due to its versatility and overall utility. This fruit however does not only give elemental immunity but also works well for PvP as well as grinding among other things; hence making it popular amongst players who appreciate such flexibility. Despite being weak against rubber users while having slow attack speed etc., rumble still remains useful throughout the game since its weaknesses are compensated by other factors like trade value etc.Whether used personally or traded with others; there can never be enough words about how much impact this fruit has had on the world of Blox Fruits. Read the full article

[crystalelemental]

After five thousand years, finally I have reached Route 217 and can evolve my Eevee to a Glaceon. I wasn't sure I'd live to see this day, but finally the team is composed.

Wormadam fuckin rules, dude. It's put in a ton of work. Obviously, this is a comparative statement, but I'm legitimately impressed with how well Wormadam seems to be doing for itself. It's not a worldbeater, its typing and horrendous speed hold it back from that. But it's put in great work against the gym leaders. It swept Gardenia, was waiting in the wings of the Maylene fight with Psybeam and a resist to clear, finished up Wake whose Floatzel was running train on us (I was under-leveled, it's my own fault), and solo swept the majority of the routes between Sandgem and the place where you transfer Gen 3 Pokemon. I've been really happy with its overall performance.

Alakazam is, to the shock of no one, kinda nuts. I traded it to get Calm Mind at level 36, and while I haven't had to directly use it, its presence is a constant threat. I'm going with Psychic/Shock Wave/Recover/Calm Mind as the set, and it's handled what it needs to handle.

Lickilicky is alright but held back by early moveset. Broadly, it manages to do okay, but the main hangup is really just that it lacks its coverage moves. The bulk on evolution, in addition to the speed boost which seemed insignificant but was not, has really done it some wonders.

Which is more than I can say for my fail child, Houndoom, who is garbage. I'm sorry, this thing is a shitshow. Only learns physical moves, but it primarily special. I didn't even take a -Atk nature! I let myself be a bit flexible and took the first Mild Flash Fire I got, but holy hell, man! Constantly fails to KO, constantly dies, it's just been a mess. It functions, but not in any way that allows it to impress. Which is extra sad because I have this Flamethrower TM here, but I'm having a real tough time justifying it. Like, buddy, give me one reason to not just replace your ass with Giratina. Dragon and Ghost are open types on this team, and I love that thing.

Gastrodon is...fine. I'm not going to sing its praises, mostly because its stats must be bad, because HP Electric often barely managed to 2HKO Gyarados. It's quad effective, girl. Why are you struggling? Now that we have Surf and Earthquake, its STABs are putting in a lot of work, but I admit to feeling less than impressed with Gastrodon. I've teased the idea of switching back to Floatzel. But also I did give Gastrodon the Earthquake TM, so like. Probably need to commit.

And finally, the star of the show, Glaceon. I have not been able to use Glaceon yet for anything. I evolved it and immediately backtracked to level/EV farm on South Route 210. But I am definitely putting in as much work for Glaceon's sake as possible. Shadow Ball, Water Pulse, Ice Beam, and apparently its Hidden Power is Ground, which is honestly solid even if it's not the Electric I kinda hoped for. The funny thing about this Glaceon is, I trained Eevee up to Bite off of the Wayward Cave doubles with Mira, so she's super physically bulky, then trained a lot on Gastly so she's got a pretty respectable Sp Atk. She's not quite on par with Alakazam's Sp Atk, but she's putting in some damn good work for it. I'm currently EV training mostly speed, to capitalize on the Naive nature, and because Glaceon is otherwise just another slow option in the team of mostly slow options. She has the potential to be...well, not fast, but fast enough to surprise some opponents that need surprising.

For the future, I have definitely decided to replace Houndoom. I'm kinda frustrated with it. So it looks like I'll be running Heatran in post-game after all. Gastrodon's kinda here to stay because I invested in Earthquake, a decision I mildly regret, but had no other sane options to work with. Lickilicky and Wormadam are definite, while Alakazam...I'm tempted to change over to Cresselia or Mesprit, but we'll see.

[simpingwriter]

Cal Kestis x Kyra Yarmot

'Revenge

and

Redemption:

In the Name of Love'

Pt.10

___________________

Wow, I didn't take 10 days for this one!

Anyways, Kyra on her first Inquisitor Mission, Cal on his...who knows how many he's been in his three months alone...

Take a shot for every time I wrote 'Rebel Camp' btw, and no I won't pay the medical bills-

Enjoy! :)

Word Count: approx. 2.900 Words

___________________

You had to be very quiet, not a soul can possibly hear you as you snuck through the dense shadows of the night, using your agility and flexibility – the last things you're capable of – to hurry over most obstacles in your path without much worry.

Then you found what you looked for:

The trash of the weekend market of one of the Planet's cities you're currently taking cover in. As quick as you could be while also making as good as no sounds, you look through the already odd smelling produce that the vendors had to throw out because the unrelenting sun shone on them all day, which shortened their shelf life extremely quickly.

But it was the best you could get when you had to save all the stolen and found credits to hitchhike with a stranger on their ship next week again, never staying in one place for too long. You couldn't risk having them find you…not in this poor condition of yours.

In the reflection of a dirty puddle, not evaporated due to its shadowy place in an Alleyway, you see the creature that is you…skin and scales, drying out due to slow but more than certain malnutrition and not enough ways to hyrdate without catching some water-living parasite or an infection. You got just barely enough to not die of thirst, giving most of it, like your found food, to Grogu. Dark circles around the free part of your eyes made your skin almost the same tone as the scales close around it. And you didn't even have the strength left to fly if you ended up being caught during one of your nightly scavenging hunts, yet the fact that Grogu was all alone in that cave while you're out getting food for him and you gave you enough incentive to keep quiet as much as you physically could. Either way, if you felt like fighting this useless emptiness or not, you cannot leave Grogu to fend for himself, he doesn't deserve to lose the last person that can take care of him as well.

Even though you barely even had the strength left to defend the two of you if anyone other than the Empire found you…

You woke from your nap about an hour after Cal's Idea of…entertaining…yourselves, still tasting him on your lips and in your mouth. Was it weird that you liked that and the feeling it gave you?

"I can taste you too still, dragonfly, nothing weird in my eyes…but maybe let's not tell anyone else!" It came from beneath you, your body lying on his, being gently shook along as he laughed lightly at your surprised, almost embarrassed expression. "And by the way, you tasted about as divine as always…" He praised with a proud smirk, licking his lips for more context to add to your already naughty thoughts. And it would surprise you if he didn't like what he had, having eaten you out like a man starved just before this nap.

"Were you any better though, missy, I thought you're going to cho-" He wasn't able to finish his obvious idea to playfully tease you back when a knock at the door drew the attention of both of you towards it. "We're meeting at the Inn's entrance in about five minutes, hurry up you two!" Trilla shouts through it before audibly walking away once more – not waiting along for your answer – in the direction of the Elevators and stairwell. As much as it annoyed both of you, she was right. You're not here for a vacation, you're here on a mission as Inquisitors. With wordless communication, Cal and you were both on the same wavelength: Kark Trilla sometimes, but yes this is important.

Fortunately you had been allowed to at least choose the type and model, if you already had to wait to get a new Lightsaber. So it ended up being a Sniper Blaster Rifle, after you demonstrated your skills in handling one, your keen eyesight making you a dangerous enemy if left at the trigger of one.

So within two minutes, you fixed your Uniforms back up, having taken your nap still wearing them for the most part, only his pants and underwear drawn down a bit and your jumpsuit opened haphazardly below the belt. Thank the makers for the functionality of it, otherwise you would take five minutes alone already to get your Uniform back in place with your out of order wings and your tail having to be stuffed through the holes as well again. Grabbing his lightsaber to clip it back on, he used one hand to throw you your own weapon. Currently, that would be a blaster.

Although you really would've preferred to get your own, old Lightsaber back instead. But that one was most likely still with Cere and the Mantis Crew…traitors, liars…

You're going to get your lightsaber back and get your revenge at the same time. Revenge for attempting to kill you in cold blood, Revenge for keeping this life-changing truth from you even though she knew what you are…Revenge for your people.

"Easy, my little hot head. You're going to set the room ablaze!" Cal calls out, placing a much colder hand on your shoulder, which was heating up with every second you wasted thinking about that woman's betrayal. "I'm fine, Cal." The way you snapped at him though, your tail tip leaving cuts across even the stone tiled floor, it was more than obvious to him that you're not really fine. And as much he would've wanted to just let you have your moment to let off the figurative and literal steam, you two didn't have the time to. After their first week of offical acclimatization for you, they hadn't had the time either.

So you're running around like a steaming time bomb since over a month now…eventually, he just knew, the pressure and rage would get you to pop and as much as he wanted to be there for you, to get you through that moment just like any other you two went through till now…he was afraid if you would perhaps lose track of who is friend and who is foe in that very moment, or even of yourself.

"...You're afraid that...that I might hurt you…" You realize quietly, his thoughts, his evident fear for what you could possibly do if everything became just way too much for even you to handle. That was the point you felt yourself get back to reality, but not slowly. More like a Boulder falling off a cliff.

"No…if you want me to be honest, my biggest concern is that you hurt yourself in your eventual outbreak." He reveals, a thought he didn't let you hear all to clearly, or didn't want you to hear, it seemed, because it definitely didn't sound like a lie either. "Why…?" Outside, the sun was settling across the horizon of Kuat's cities and forests, a golden and orange glow coming through the half-shut window as you waited for Cal's answer to your very simple, short question. "Because I don't want to see you hurt, we went over this so many times in this month alone…I don't want anyone to harm you, especially not you yourself in an accident…" And it was quite obvious in his tone that he wouldn't accept any type of 'but' or similar rebuttal. He was worried for you, that's all and while, on the inside, you knew that most certainly really was everything there is to this, you can't help but secretly continue to worry about the fact that Cal might also be afraid of you hurting him...

You would never let that happen, under no circumstances…you rather kill yourself before it gets to that point!

Cal took your silent nod as the end of this subject of conversation, placing a gentle kiss on your forehead, smiling when he felt that you had already cooled off again…you never would let yourself harm him…ever.

Going back down the same way as you were shown by the owner of the Inn, you're greeted with the 7 Storm Troopers from before and Trilla with her hands on her hips, impatient as hell already as her heels duck into the road's fine, gray gravel. "Don't give us this look, Trilla, we still got a good minute till the five minutes are over!" You claim severely annoyed – the previous conversation the cause for that – before she can even say anything, and for everyone's sake, she fortunately dropped it more or less as she began to assign the roles of this mission to everyone. Something you only truly realized now, since she ignored the Troopers entirely and immediately turned to you two, was that they weren't even basic Storm Troopers.

They all already knew what they would be doing today, as it were their specializations.

You had a medic, a Flametrooper, two Heavy Troopers, a Jumptrooper, a Scout Trooper and one Shock Trooper, which was basically an elite Rank Trooper.

"Eleventh Brother," she began, looking at Cal who himself looked unamused as well, his arms crossed as he looked at Trilla with something close to passive aggressive neutrality, "You're going to be our eyes above, of course with the help of the Twelfth Sister."

"Stop daydreaming and listen to me, Yarmot." Trilla reprimanded, snapping her finger in front of your face for your attention, "My apologies." Despite not in the mood for anything anymore right now, after you heard Cal's fears, you had enough brain left to keep your false respect up in front of the Troopers, otherwise they might think their boss has absolutely no reign over the two of you. But to be honest, Cal and You often ignored the supposed Rank of the Inquisitors because by the makers, you would've been dead so many times if you listened to some of the outrageous plans and strategies the other Inquisitors thought about during Simulation Training. Trilla was the only Inquisitor you even believed in anymore to actually lead a Missiok like this successfully, all the regular bullying you did set aside, you had to give her at least that.

Eyes above? Did she forget that your wings aren't healed yet, even if they made significant progress – surprisingly – in Dr. Puloria's eyes, they are apparently not able to be used in combat again already anyways.

But as if she read your mind, perhaps due to your extremely clear confusion written all over your face, she pulls up one of her brows, pointing behind her.

A mountain, with a path leading up to it, that's what it looked like at least.

"That karking above. I know that your stupid wings are still virtually useless…and knowing our luck, it will most likely stay that way." Your confusion changed to just about being absolutely done with her already again for the rest of the day, one of your eyes twitching irritated as you hold back from just telling her your own thoughts right now. Instead, you nod, holding back, staying quiet as Cal praises your control silently. "So the Scout Trooper checks out from below, we give through what we can see from up there?" "Yes, essentially. But stay on guard, from what the Town's People have given us Information-wise for them, they have been seen also patrolling the nearby mountain range, that includes that mountain, so you might have to fight or hide."

With a few questions for the strategy later, the improvised briefing was concluded and everyone took one of the Speeders provided to you all by the Town itself. They clearly appreciated your help as some curious folks came to watch with their kids as the 10 of you depart for the exit of the town and into the wild grasslands. After an uncertain distance, you didn't pay much attention to it, Cal signals you with his hand to cut away from the rest, stopping shortly at the foot of the huge mountain, a sloping grass field and a gravel path running up to the more rocky paths being your new road as the others continued to their discussed spots. Leaving the front to Cal, you take the slow, careful ascend on the now down-throttled, much quieter Speeders to take in the surroundings.

Kuat was a pretty planet, but also way too…busy…with plant and swamp life for your personal taste. Most of what you're able to see was the Jungle next to the open grass fields and partially swamps that forced the Jungle to end almost abruptly. Before you disappeared behind the rock wall of the mountain that now lost most of the lush and tall grass that grew further down, you took the chance to see the Town from high above as well, painted in the colors of the evening sun even more now. It was surprisingly big, but not polluted despite two big factories visible near the other end. Not Shipyards though, these are in Kuat's Orbit as an awestriking ring of factories.

After the last feet upwards, Cal calls for you silently that you should travel the rest of the small distance by foot, to keep the Speeders hidden in case a Rebel Patrol actually came past here. Doing so, you once again walk side by side, making sure to keep on guard just like she had told you and Cal. "If the Camp isn't too difficult to deal with, from the amount of Rebels at least, you think we could finish this mission today already?" You dare to ask once he was sure he had found a good spot for your task, leaning against the big rock he hid behind with you. The ginger hummed in thought, "I don't know, perhaps…also, doesn't this...situation give you a bit of Deja vu, Kyra?"

Deja vu? Of wha- oh wait, yes! This is very similar to how the first day you met ended, with you two hunched down behind some loose rocks on a cliff to spy out some stuff, back then, it was an Informant of the Rebels. Now it's the very people you once believed to be your allies. "Yeah, it does. It was much hotter on that Planet though, Kuat has a more mild and moist climate." He smiled when he got the confirmation that you remembered as well, shortly ignoring the bloated rule of professionalism to place a kiss on your scaly cheeks, "And I would never regret meeting you that day, Dragonfly. Now: let's get it together, we got a job to do."

Right he was, you shouldn't mess up unless you want you two to get punished for it later on. Pulling out your binoculars from the clip at your utility belts, you carefully climb onto the rock, flattening your wings and tail onto it, to be able to look downwards without being spotted yourself while Cal chose to lie down and look around it from the side.

Minutes and minutes of low activity and basically no sign of life, Cal almost falling asleep right where he was, you finally saw something of interest. Zooming in with the Binoculars, you grin, "Tri- Second Sister, registering movement to the galactic north side of the Camp, four lightly armored Rebels equipped with…two Rifle Blasters and two Generic Blasters. One has a vibroblade at his belt." You sent through the wrist comm you wore, trying to make out anyone else on the ground but you're running up empty till now. But you kept being surprised as in how in the Galaxy the Rebels had managed to build up a whole karking campsite just a few miles out of a Town that actively and proudly supported their enemies.

"Cal, why do they make it so complicated anyways, they eradicated such Campsites with a targeted artillery strike before, from what one of the Troopers told me on the trip down to Kuat. Why aren't we doing it again?"

You ask as you keep a keen eye on the north side now, it must be where their entrance is then, if these four suddenly came from there. Rolling your head from side to side to ease some tension in your neck from lying on literal rock, you spy something else at the west side of the Camp, two more. While you send that through as well, including their potential weaponry, Cal patiently waited to be able to reply to you with what you wanted to hear, "These Rebels are suspected to be holding onto important information about other Camps and Rebel Cells. Especially one on Coruscant that's been growing under the Empire's Nose for months now!"

Yeah okay, that sounded very much important, you give him that. So maybe you can't just blast them all to hell and back, but if the information is that important, why are they all waiting around so long? They could've shared them to other Rebels by now, made hundredsbof copies…untraceable ones at that! "Relax, love, they know of the obvious risks but so far, they know what they are doing. Isn't their first time after all…" You really did hope that they knew, otherwise this is going to be a waste of not just time but also of valuable Resources.

Engrossed deeply into the task of being on the lookout for threats down below, neither Cal nor you had much attention left to also look behind yourselves every once in a while, some banter back and forth keeping you from also losing concentration on the more obvious task at hand. But it caused a different problem: forgetting to stay on guard for your OWN safety at all times.

So it was only BD then that would pick up the sounds of the unfamiliar voices closing in, his worried, quiet beeps drowned out by you and Cal talking about whatever played about on the ground, either verbally ripping into one of the Rebel Guards tripping on some roots or their own speeders at the South Side clearly being less than fully functional. Only when BD had more than enough and jumped on Cal's head to pull at his ginger hair with his small feet, you had forced yourselves to look back up.

But the Rebel Patrol had already seen your lying figures, quick to realize who and what you were by your black Uniforms. When you abandoned your binoculars, throwing them wherever to take a reflexive fighting stance, they should've fled by instinct to stay alive. Because they knew what you would do.

They didn't.

Like they knew they wouldn't get out alive either way after they found not just one, but two Inquisitors, spying on their Group's camp, they charged at Cal and you, their surprising fearlessness stunned you both for long enough so one of them reached the Ginger Inquisitor, pulling his tucked away blade to swing at him with a desperate shout.

Wide eyes, stunned to your spots, everything felt like it played in slow motion as you heard the rip of his uniform being shredded by the serrated blade of the Rebel, smelling the metallic scent of your mate's blood near instantly before it even hit the rocky ground of the mountain you're currently stuck on.

You're too slow to react as well when Cal, his eyes wide and mouth open, stumbles backwards from the sheer shock and pain, clutching the wound instead of defending himself, as it wasn't his first instinct to lash out in revenge, this wasn't how Cal worked either way how angry he was.

It was though to shout your name as he fell off the ragged cliff face you two just shortly before lied on to do your stupid job.

All because of theses karking rebels…

...

"CALLLLL!!!"

___________________

[kaidatheghostdragon]

Not many things can surprise Batman these days, but the lazarus green shield - and the energy he felt flow through him to power it - startled him enough that he lost his tenuous grasp on flight, landing in the snowbank with a very ungraceful thud.

Batman dragged himself out of the snowbank and stood up. The snow should have felt colder on his skin. This body was wearing jeans and a tee shirt in what looked like a frozen wasteland with green and purple skies. Either temperatures here don't work, or this body is built for the cold.

Batman noticed movement in the distance, some sort of instinct causing this body to flicker into invisibility for a brief moment. Great. Another power to keep track of. How powerful IS this meta?

After about a minute of squinting, he could start to make out the shape of the distant object - it looked like a Giant Fucking Yeti.

And it was hauling ass straight towards him.

What were his options?

He could try to turn invisible again, but he wasn't sure how exactly to control it or what kind of stamina this body had. He could dive back into the snowbank and hope that the temperature didn't eventually cause problems for this body. Or he could wait and see what the yeti was doing.

This body seemed reasonably fit, if entirely too young. He could probably fight without injuring too badly if he was careful.

So Batman adjusted into a subtly defensive stance, hoping he wasn't underestimating the distance and apparent size of the yeti.

"Great One!" it shouted straight towards him as it came within earshot, slowing down its gait, "I saw you detransform and fall from the sky. Is something wro- you are not the Great One. Who are you, and why have you taken his body?"

The yeti abruptly stopped several yards distant, warily examining him. Batman examined him back. Nearly ten feet tall, white fur, vaguely wolf-like jaw, large horns and enormous claws. Even it's back end was dangerous, sporting a tail with intimidating spikes. Absent any hints of intelligence, it would still be very powerful and dangerous.

One arm made entirely of ice, the bone visible inside of it. It moved with equal flexibility of the opposite arm. Magic-based?

A brightly colored and loin cloth and cloak with delicate patterns - a sign of culture and technology.

Also, it either just spoke plain english, bodyswapping came with ability to understand this creature, or some sort of translation shenanigans was going on.

And why did it call the owner of this body the Great One?

"I was in my own body a few moments ago, then a second later I was in this one," Batman hesitantly replied with a surprisingly tenor voice.

The yeti seemed to just sigh before nodding, "I am Frostbite, leader of the Far Frozen and a friend of the young man whose body you currently inhabit. Please follow me."

Batman, with no clue where he was or how to get back home, did just that.

Halloween prompts year 2 day 19

Bruce felt the wind rushing through his hair as he fell. The batsuit he was wearing only seconds ago was nowhere on his person not did he have any tools or a utility belt, only an unfamiliar tshirt and jeans and the much smaller body of a child.

Below him was a snowy landscape filled with trees and no sign of civilization nearby. Just as Bruce was preparing to do a very painful landing maneuver to save himself he just...stopped. He thought for a moment that one of the supers had come to rescue him as he slowly drifted down, much like the snowflakes that had started to come down around him but he was still alone.

Alright. So hes bodyswapped with a meta. He can work with this.

Elsewhere Danny finds himself in the body of freaking Batman in the middle of a Justice League fight where Batman had just been hit with unidentified magic from an unknown creature.

Just his luck. Its a ghost and he doesn't have his powers. But at least he knows how to make weapons thanks to his parents

Bruce proceeds to have to deal with dannys grocery list of powers and figure out how to control them while looking for civilization

Danny is trying really hard not to be outed as a fake Batman cause he doesn't know the Justice League doesn't actually support the anti-ecto acts

[fermented-writers-block]

Honestly, looking back, it strikes me as a bit funny the way much of the fandom collectively agreed since True Colors that if Sasha were to get her calamity power back, hers would be fire themed. And yet over the course of S3A, it’s become more and more clear that that distinction would actually belong to Anne most of all.

Like seen above, the dual flame/lotus symbolism extends to her powers itself, not just her shirt symbol. I’ve done a fair bit of theorizing on what this duality could possibly symbolize for Anne’s arc for the end of the show, but in all of this, it begs the question of what Sasha’s Calamity power theme would be if Anne already has dibs on fire.

For me, I’d like to introduce my proposal with a particularly eye-catching feat of nature revolving around fire’s elemental opposite:

Just as blue flames actually burn much hotter than red flames rather than cooler as color theory might make one believe (make of those potential implications for Anne as you will), I feel that Sasha’s Calamity form taking after this kind of rare water phenomena would make for an incredibly striking inversion of the usual element-color associations made in fiction.

In short, a BLUE fiery Anne and a PINK/RED watery Sasha.

However, my reasoning extends further beyond just mere symbolic aesthetics.

From an interview with Matt on the metaphor behind Anne’s power, applying a similar idea to Sasha’s Calamity power would likely necessitate its theme to also be symbolically reflective of her as a person and her growth. In essence, both what she used to be and what she needs to learn to become.

Basically, I’d compare pre-Turning Point Sasha to a fast moving torrent of water coming out from a spigot/flowing across land. From the suggestions that Sasha’s behavior isn’t new across the show, it seems she essentially carved out a metaphorical mental rut for herself over the years in which she felt she had to be in control 100% of the time - presumably from feeling a lack of control in regards to her home life.

Water is a incredibly powerful element, capable of eroding and shaping the very landscape of continents, and the longer Sasha had the water pressure knob set to high with her in control of the flow. Thus, the depth of her path lowered until we got to the girl who couldn’t and wouldn’t climb out of the valley she had shaped for herself, who would flow over and around any obstacle that fell in her way to keep going the same way, and who dragged along anyone who fell in with the direction and sheer force of her current up until they got fished out like Anne and Marcy, found the strength to swim to shore and get out like Percy and Braddock, or subsumed under her waves.

After all, just as it’s difficult to fight against a heavy current and even harder still to divert the course of a river, that’s how her intense personality and persistent drive influenced those around her.

That is, until a stream’s velocity is slowed enough - whether from to where its path can meander much more easily rather than just going straight.

In essence, a water theme for Sasha’s powers and her growth could revolve around the idea of teach her how to let go off the water pressure knob. Rather than dictating the direction of the flow and forcing her surroundings to follow suit, she could learn how to slow down and go with the flow of her surroundings, becoming much, much more flexible and able to change directions while being considerably calmer and clear in mind than before.

In comparison, Anne is someone who used to be and still is someone who tends to jump headfirst into burning her candle at both ends to take on others’ responsibilities, effectively setting herself on fire to keep others warm. With careful moderation, fire can provide warmth, guiding light, and a deterrence to dangerous animals, but fire also has the capacity to spread out of control and burn down entire swathes of land should proper care not be taken with it.

Between her trauma and avoidance of addressing how she actually feels, I can’t help but feel that Anne might struggle to do exactly that in the future, and just like a fire gone out of control, she may need some external help to cool her down.

Overall, Anne’s fiery, passionate emotions and the forceful pull of Sasha’s currents are what makes me feel these elements fit them and their possible upcoming character arcs quite well.

The former would need external help to control and simmer down should her emotions run wild, and water is quite an effective tool for such. And the latter would need an extra hand to keep Sasha’s head above the turbulent waters coming her way and point her towards calmer pastures, or at least help guide her up the slopes and keep her from sliding back down into the valley she had created.

Such is the way of the potential burning perils of fire, and the landscape shifting power of water.

[borkthemork]

The Manned Robot Theory

So, I wanted to talk about a theory I had about what shall happen in Season Three, particularly my curiousity toward a specific robot we see in the opening.

This robot right here has been on my mind the moment the opening dropped, and I knew I had to make a post about it eventually. I had pondered, debated, and even discussed with people over this darn robot and why they’re supposedly important, and here’s what I ultimately think:

I believe that Marcy is going to control this robot. She is going to man this robot because Andrias needs Anne to fully power the music box, and she’s the right person to scout out Los Angeles for the invasion.

Not only will I explain why I believe this, but I’ll go extensively into why this robot specifically, and what its plot importance could be in the long run.

With that out of the way, let us begin!

Now, we have to start from somewhere, so I’m going to be talking about the bot’s supposed objective, and we could see it well through the character design of it.

The robot isn’t your regular variant that could be seen in True Colors. Not even Joe Sparrow’s examples had this type of flexible, monkey-esque design; there was one that looked more of a flying frog but other than that, we got nada on why it’s designed like this.

So let’s brainstorm. Here we have a robot that has extendable legs, can jump far, probably climb with how hook-like its claws are, it has a weird module on its chest (we’ll tackle that later), and yeah a lot of it screams out ape. It’s a very maneuverable variant that can fit through even spacial alley ways. You could see with the torso and limbs that it’s intended this way to explore and not lose sight of the target — if a big, bulky variant chased them then it would create an absolute mess while attempting to hunt them down.

Also note that Anne didn’t run through the same alleyway as the robot at first.

It implies that this robot had been on their tail, Anne tried to divert through another way, and then realized the robot was on their trail again. This robot is definitely fit for the job in the chasing department, but the big question here is why it’s chasing her specifically.

Back in True Colors and the opening itself, there is an implication that is very important to the status of the Newtopian castle, being that the castle itself is still intact and well.

The reason why I point this out is that if we follow this logic, then the music box hadn’t lost any of the girls’ calamity powers just like with their first teleport to Earth, because if the powers were truly drained then the castle would be rubble by now. And the Night is active in the basement, not dead at all.

With the music box, however, it’s shown that one can’t make a portal — a functional, stable portal — without the gems being fully charged.

So we know that the use of the music box to transport the Plantars didn’t drain the box of its powers. Anne still has the 25% she retained, and I get the feeling that her activating the powers gave enough time for Marcy to activate a portal before the connection between Anne and her gem fizzled out.

So Andrias has two full gems, but one incomplete.

How would Andrias start an invasion if all of his portals are weak and unstable all the time? That wouldn’t do.

Cue Marcy Wu being revived. Whether through theories of corruption, being manipulated, etc, Marcy is going to be coaxed into working with Andrias on getting Anne back. What would be the goal? I don’t really know for certain on Marcy’s end since anything can go regarding her fate, but for Andrias, it makes sense to use Marcy to scout and find Anne.

For one, Marcy has a better idea of what Earth looks like. Andrias hasn’t seen an active world since a millennium; if he only had one chance to grab Anne and bring her back, then he would need someone who would have plenty of knowledge of the landscape, and ultimately seek out where Anne could potentially be hiding.

This could give reason to some very specific designs on the robot in question, especially the blue node on the robot’s chest and the fin on its head.

With Joe Sparrow’s (and any other character designer’s) designs, one needs to note that this specific module is not on any of the other revealed robot designs.

Not these.

Not these.

Not even the basic robot got this module in mind.

It’s as if this robot is specifically designed for a purpose, and we know from Joe’s tweets that he has a lot more planned robot variations in the stack, meaning the writers already know where they’re going with the plot, and that Joe and his crew were assigned to specifically design the ape robot’s unique form.

So that blue knob? I’d like to believe that’s actually a camera for Marcy to help navigate or even become vocal toward the people she’s chasing.

And that buffer/horn on its head? There’s a potential it could be used for less friction while maneuvering, but it could also be an antenna too to keep the connection between the two worlds while Marcy navigates the area.

Even if Marcy isn’t able to nab Anne, this form of robot could survey the land for the upcoming invasion, map out the buildings of interest, and ultimately start the battle plans for how to take over the Los Angeles area first and foremost.

I would like to end this post with the probability of this writing-wise. Perhaps this robot is just some random robot. Maybe it’s just an example of the slow, encroaching havoc upon the world. But if the idea that this robot is the first encounter Anne and the Plantars experienced regarding Andrias getting ready for the invasion and is ultimately being chased down for her gem powers, then this event could also be important for two, extremely important things:

Showing how crucial Anne is to starting the invasion, and revealing to Anne that Marcy is still alive.

Let’s start with the latter first. Anne doesn’t know that Marcy survived the stabbing.

She believed that one of her best friends got stabbed in front of her very eyes, and before she could do anything she got whisked away to Earth, Sasha still stranded in the room with an enthusiastic conqueror to boot.

That’s a lot to take in for a teenager. She probably grieved over Sasha and Marcy, especially when she had the time to think about the betrayals and the events that lead up to this point. It’s going to be an utter wreck of a rollercoaster, and Anne just wants off this wild ride. Thankfully, that should be the case if the robot arrives on Earth.

To keep the tone of the series, one has to relieve the tension in some way, and having Anne be miserable for a prolonged amount of time doesn’t seem ordeal in keeping to the mood Amphibia currently established.

And making Anne create the connection that the one manning the robot is Marcy would be enough to give her hope.

Hope that she could save her, that Amphibia is not a million miles away.

However, there comes a catch with this. If Anne really is important in King Andrias’s plans to invade Los Angeles, then her wanting to get even closer to the truth of how to get back to Amphibia would lead to a lot of risk.

There will be robots trying their best to grab her, to make her activate the box’s powers to its full potential, and Anne’s wanting to return to the froggy world would become more dangerous than ever.

She could very well be the reason that Andrias ultimately seeps his way into the city.in full force.

And she’s probably still gonna take that shot.

[let-it-raines]

I Hope We Never See October (2/?)

When his personal life and football career go up in flames, Killian Jones escapes England for America, finding seclusion in Martha’s Vineyard in order to hide from his demons. It’s a fresh start, or at the very least a paused moment in his life, and all he needs is a few months alone to allow his heart to heal. He doesn’t count on meeting Emma Swan.

Emma’s life depends on tourists who come to the island every summer. It’s how she makes her money working in restaurants and clubs across the vineyard, but every year, she cannot wait until autumn comes and her life returns to normal. She especially cannot wait for Killian Jones to leave.

Rating: Mature

a/n: Thank you guys for reading the first part of this! I cannot say enough how much I appreciate all of you and how glad I am little things like this bring you guys joy! Thanks to @resident-of-storybrooke for reading over these words. ❤️

AO3: Beginning | Current

Tumblr: One | Two 

-/-

“Emma, the couple at table two wants to talk to you, and the woman at table seven has a complaint about the quiche. Something about there being eggs in them.”

Emma groans and closes her laptop to look at Ashley, one of the new waitresses she hired this summer. She’s good, courteous, and she’s always here on time. Emma is going to hate to lose her for a few weeks when she has her baby, but come hell or high water, the girl is getting maternity leave even if Emma can’t manage more than three weeks without the owner getting involved and likely trying to fire all of them. She deserves months more than that, but Emma can’t change the system.

It’s a shit system, especially for moms.

“They don’t want eggs…in their quiche? Are you serious?”

“She’s vegan and claims she’s been misled.”

Emma rolls her eyes and stands from her chair. She pulls her jean shorts down, the frayed edges covering just a little more thigh, and unties the bottom of her button-down. She probably needs to start dressing up more for this job, but she can’t be bothered. She managed to wear her Blue Dog Tavern polo last week, so that seems like enough effort. “We have symbols on the menu to indicate dietary restrictions, but this isn’t really a restaurant for dietary restrictions beyond one or two items. I’ll deal with it. Thanks, Ashley.”

It’s Sunday morning, which is their second busiest time after Friday and Saturday nights, and the Blue Dog is packed. It’s all hands on deck this morning, but Emma was hoping to get some scheduling and produce ordering done in her office during it. But this is a restaurant, so of course there’s never any time for a breather when she needs it the most. She’ll finish all that later, she guesses, because she has a feeling neither of these conversations are going to be a short one.

And she’s right about that. The woman hating on the quiche pitches a fit and demands her money back before threatening to sue the place and, quite frankly, threatening to cut off Emma’s legs, and Emma has to resolve that without losing her cool when all she wants to do is punch jerks like that straight across the jaw. Then the couple at table two asks her to run through every item on the menu and whether or not everything is organically sourced.

They serve fried mac and cheese balls at ten in the morning and have kitschy, slightly tacky artwork nailed onto the darkly stained wood. If you eat outside on the patio, you get a nice view of people taking off a little more than they should while sunbathing on the surrounding beaches and docked boats. There’s also the occasional ferry that drives by and blows a loud horn that tourists seem to get a kick out of. Do they really think everything is organically sourced?

God, sometimes she really hates tourists.

This is a nice place, though. It’s not somewhere you go for fine dining, but their brunch is divine, it’s got a good atmosphere, and the new bartenders she’s hired this summer make better drinks than you can get at any reasonably priced bar in a ten-mile radius. She likes this little part of the island, and even though she hates tourists, they do fund her entire life. So maybe she hates them a little less than usual when the paychecks roll in.

Today is not a day where the paycheck is rolling in.

Emma notices some of the tables are a little slow, so she picks up the slack, getting drinks and refills and checking on meals. It keeps her on her feet for most of the morning and through the lunch rush, but when it’s over, she collapses on a stool at the end of the bar.

“Chip, can you get me a coffee?” she asks without looking up. “I don’t care what milk or creamer you put in it as long as you don’t bring it to me black. Though, I think I need the caffeine so badly that I’d drink it. I don’t know why I agreed to work the late dinner shift at The Oaks last night. I’m exhausted.”

When she doesn’t get a response, she looks up for Chip. He’s nowhere to be seen, and when she checks her phone schedule, she realizes it’s his break time. Of course it is.

“Lass, I don’t believe the barkeep is here anymore.”

“Yeah, it’s his break, but I can help you. What’s your poison?”

“The coffee you’re having.”

Emma nods and turns to look at the man talking to her, and if she wasn’t so tired, she would have recognized the voice a hell of a lot faster than she did. A lot of different accents pass through this place, but he’s the first British one in awhile. Also the first one to show up in her backyard. Or the Fishers’ backyard, technically, but she’s been renting it for long enough for it to feel like her own even if she’s changed very little of the furniture and decorations outside her bedroom.

Killian. She thinks that was his name. Honestly, she’s surprised she remembers anything because she was in such a rush to get to work that she didn’t have time to deal with all the people at her house. But he was unexpected and attractive – she’s not blind to attractive men no matter what Ruby and Mary Margaret think – and he threw her off for a minute. He looked familiar, but she has no idea why. There’s no way she would have met him before.

But she also doesn’t care. She’s got a gut feeling that she needs to watch out for him, that there’s something that’s not right, and him being at her job is proving that to her. What are the odds that he’d wander in a few days after meeting her when she’s pretty sure he’s never been here before?

Then again, maybe that’s why he’s familiar. It’s June. A lot of people come through here, and she’s not going to remember all their faces. Sometimes she does, though, in the back of her mind where vague, slightly blurry memories reside.

“Sure thing,” Emma sighs, standing from the stool. “Do you have a server?”

“Aye. Heather, I believe, but…”

“But she’s on her phone.” Emma shakes her head. “My boss’s niece. Not much I can do about it, but I’ll get you your coffee, a water, and take your order right away.”

He nods, going back to his own phone, and Emma takes that as her cue to get behind the bar and start making some coffee. She doesn’t usually work this machine, so it takes her a minute to get it right all while she feels Killian staring at her.

“Do you need any suggestions on the menu?” Emma asks as the coffee percolates.

“How are the salads?”

“I prefer things with more calories, but they’re good. Our vegetables are fresh, and I personally enjoy the strawberry poppyseed with chicken, but I know not everyone loves fruit in salads.” He hums behind her as his mug fills, and she grabs some milk from the fridge under the sink, turning to show him. “Milk okay?”

“It’s perfect, Swan.” She raises her brows, which he mirrors, until he cocks his head forward and his lips form an obnoxious little smirk. “On the nametag, love.”

“Now, what did I say about being your love?”

“That you’re not.”

“Exactly.” She finishes making his coffee and hands it over. He’s a customer, she reminds herself. She’s got to try to be a little bit nicer than she wants to be. “So, the salad? If you’re looking more toward the healthy options with protein, the grilled chicken breast on its own is fantastic. You get two sides, which you can find at the bottom of the menu.”

He nods and looks at the menu for half a second before looking up. “The salad would be great. Thank you.”

He picks up his mug, pointing it toward her, and Emma takes it as a dismissal so she can put his order in, and hopefully she can get Heather to do her damn job and serve him for the rest of the meal. She doesn’t like that he knows where she lives and works, and even though she doesn’t think Ariel and Eric spend time with shady people, something about him gives her weird vibes.

His face just looks so damn familiar, and usually she’s really good remembering faces. Huh.

And Emma is usually right about these things. He’s likely nothing more than a rich man looking for a break from life by renting out a large house on the island. He’ll spend a week or two, maybe a month depending on his work situation, here, sleep with as many women as he can, and then he’ll go, never thinking of Martha’s Vineyard again. And she’s pretty sure Ariel does something having to do with high-powered people over in London, so he fits the profile. God, she must have seen him before with Ariel or something. That has to be it.

But for now, he’s a customer, and since Heather seems to be completely checked out, Emma guesses she’s going to have to deal with him. After this morning, he won’t be the worst person she has to deal with all day, and since she’s working at The Oaks tonight, she imagines being treated like shit then will outshine all of this.

Why the hell did she decide to pick up so many shifts at The Oaks? It’s a stuffy country club where tips reflecting the price of the meal aren’t even guaranteed, but it’s extra money with a flexible schedule. She’s doing okay on the money front right now, though, and if she were sane, she’d take some time off and relax, maybe enjoy the beach or any of the hundreds of good restaurants around here.

She is obviously not sane.

-/-

“Oh my God,” Emma grumbles as she strips out of her jean shorts, kicking them to the ground before unbuttoning her shirt. “I’m so tired of people.”

“I’m people,” Ruby says. “Nice bra, by the way. The girls look great.”

Emma rolls her eyes, but she does glance down at her boobs and hike them up a bit. They do look great today. “Shut up.” Emma picks up the black dress she has to wear at the country club and slips it over her shoulders. “You know I’m not tired of you.”

“That’s because you’ve barely seen me.”

“Busy. I’m busy. I work way too much. Speaking of that, why the hell aren’t you at work?”

Ruby stands from her couch and grabs her name tag from the end table. “I’m in between shifts. Granny’s in charge downstairs. I have a five-second commute to work, unlike you. Why are you changing here again?”

“Don’t want to run into any of the people at my house.” Emma smooths her dress and turns to Ruby’s mirror to reapply lipstick and put on some mascara. She’s got to wash her hair tomorrow. It’s hanging by on a thread today, if that thread is a little greasy and has a hell of a lot of dry shampoo in it. “But don’t worry, tomorrow, I will be out of your hair as they will soon be out of mine.”

“You know I’m always fine with you being in my business. Mary Margaret and David are coming here for dinner tonight. Any chance you can slip away?”

Emma finishes another coat of mascara. “Can’t. Working until past closing and then heading straight home to sleep in my house of strangers.”

Ruby laughs, carefree as always, and for a moment, the jealousy stings. Ruby has plenty of her own shit going on, but she always handles it with such ease. She’s the most carefree person Emma has ever met, and Emma can’t imagine living like that without way too much alcohol in her system.

“I told you that you could stay with me this week. Have I ever said it’s batshit crazy that they come to visit and are okay with you still staying there? Because that is batshit crazy.”

Emma shrugs and pulls back to take in her appearance. This is as good as it’s going to get. She doesn’t think she’ll be using her looks to get her any tips tonight, which is a crying shame since that’s half the reason she took this job in the first place. She knows exactly how to charm some of the older men into giving her more money by flirting a little, and she’s not ashamed that she has to give away her dignity to do it. She had to hire a dinner-shift manager at the Blue Dog because she was doing the work of two people with the pay of one. Now she’s doing the work of five people with the pay and of one and half people, so obviously she’s winning at life.

“I’m never there, and they seem like good people. I think they’re just glad I actually maintain the place and am slowly but surely getting through some of the renovations.” Emma looks at her hair again and ties it up in a ponytail with the elastic from her wrist. “Any way you can make me a grilled cheese to go?”

“Only if you agree to go to a bar with all of us sometime in the next month.”

“Yeah, fine. Whatever you want.”

God, she hopes Ruby doesn’t remember this conversation. The last thing she wants to do right now is go out with her friends and then end up sitting alone as they all make out with their partners and leave without telling Emma goodbye.

Actually, the last thing she wants to do is go to work again today, but here she goes.

-/-

Emma quietly turns the key in her front door. She saw that the kitchen light was still on from the street, and while the Fishers likely just forgot to turn it off, she doesn’t want to run the risk of seeing them tonight. It’s their last night here, so she only has to make it through one or two more awkward conversations before she has the house to herself. It’ll be just her and the creaky floors. She can collapse on the couch in her dress instead of having to walk all the way up the stairs and make it to her bedroom like a responsible adult.

In another world, Emma would like to own a house like this. It’s charming. That’s the best way to describe it. It’s two floors, three bedrooms, has bay windows and built-in bookshelves, and the cabinets in the kitchen are a light green. She likes that it’s not cookie cutter white all the way around like some of the nicer houses around here. It has character, and though there are a few things she’d change beyond the needed repairs she does for the Fishers, it’s got good bones. Plus, the location is fantastic, and the backyard is spacious. It allows Emma to spend time in the sun without being stuck on a crowded beach or near a busy dock.

But this is not another world, and Emma could never afford a house this close to the coastline. She’s got no idea why she still lives here. Well, that’s not true, she knows exactly why she still lives here, and it’d be possible for her to pick up and move inland toward Boston. She just…she can’t. She’s been here for ten years after leaving her last foster home in Brockton, and it’s been a comfortable reprieve. She’s got her friends and her job(s), and even though she’s got years of hospitality experience, there’s no guarantee someone like her with a GED can get a job this well-paying and accommodating somewhere else. Plus, her housing is almost free, and she really can’t pass that up.

It all comes back to the house, which she’s dreading going into now no matter how much she wants to collapse onto her bed.

(Or the couch. She really misses the couch. It’s the best for napping.)

Emma steps inside, avoiding the places that make the floor groan, but it’s impossible to dodge them all. She tenses, then hurries across the living room toward the stairs, only turning to the opening to the kitchen at the last minute.

“Holy fuck,” Emma gasps, dropping her purse. It hits the ground in a gentle thud, her keys spilling out and clacking along the floor.

“Didn’t mean to scare you there, Swan.”

Emma’s breath hitches as she realizes who it is sitting at her kitchen table.

Killian…whatever his last name is. She’s got no clue and doesn’t care to ask. What she does want to know is why he’s sitting here alone at two in the morning like a fucking serial killer.

“What the hell are you doing here?”

He takes a sip of his drink, coffee she thinks from the smell, and leans back in the chair, the front legs tipping up with him. “Getting sober so I can drive home. Had two drinks with dinner, and it appears I’ve become a bit of a lightweight.”

“Don’t drink much then? I thought all you Brits liked going to the pub.”

He laughs, smile bright against the black of his stubble despite her poor attempt at his accent. “We do, but not so much me anymore. Trying to cut back.”

“Yeah, I get that.” She leans down to pick up her bag, grabbing her keys and tossing them back in. “I also get that we have Uber here. You might want to try that the next time you have a little too much to drink. You look like a murderer sitting in my kitchen like this.”

“It was two glasses of rum, nothing excessive. Wishing Ariel and Eric well before they leave in the morning.” He leans forward, the chair landing on all four legs, and downs the rest of his mug. “I don’t make a habit of drinking too much.”

“I don’t care what you do in your personal time. Just don’t make a mess in my house…or your friends’ house, I guess. And sleep on the couch if you want. There are blankets in the basket.”

She doesn’t know why she’s offering him the couch. She should be making him leave. Her heart is still leaping out of her chest from him scaring her, and even though this has been her home for years, she technically can’t ask him to leave. In reality, Ariel has probably offered him the couch already.

What a long day.

She wants it to be over.

“That’s surprisingly kind of you.”

Emma’s step falters, and while she was turning away from the man, she decides to turn back and narrow her eyes. What the hell is that supposed to mean? “I guess I’m full of surprises for men who don’t know me.”

“Just who are you then, Swan?” he asks, standing from the chair and putting his mug in the sink, turning the faucet on while never losing eye contact.

“Wouldn’t you like to know?”

“Perhaps I would.”

A shiver runs down Emma’s spine, but she ignores it and walks up the stairs. This is a weird week, one she doesn’t want to repeat, and the last thing she needs is to spend too much time with a man who thinks he can charm his way into anything with a few smooth words and a smile. She’s been around enough men like that in her lifetime, but it doesn’t matter with him. Tomorrow, he’ll be gone with Eric and Ariel, and she’ll be back to being able to walk around her house without pants whenever she wants.

Tomorrow, this weird as hell week will be over, and she’ll be back to normal…mostly.

-/-

-/-

Tag list: @qualitycoffeethings @marrtinski @klynn-stormz @scarletslippers @elizabeethan @jrob64 @snowbellewells @therealstartraveller776 @thejollyroger-writer @galadriel26 @galaxyzxstark @idristardis @karenfrommisthaven @teamhook @spartanguard @searchingwardrobes @jamif @shireness-says @ultimiflos @onepunintendid @bluewildcatfanatic @superchocovian @killianswannn @carpedzem @captainkillianswanjones @mayquita @mariakov81 @jennjenn615 @onceuponaprincessworld @a-faekindagirl @scientificapricot @xellewoods @ultraluckycatnd @stahlop @kmomof4 @tiganasummertree @singersdd @tornadoamy @cluttermind @lfh1226-linda @andiirivera @itsfabianadocarmo @captain-emmajones @ilovemesomekillianjones @taylrsversion​ @dramioneswan​ @jonesfandomfanatic​ @wefoundloveunderthelight​

[justice4harwin]

Darklina prompt

Inspired by Taylor Swift’s Champagne problems

A/N: TBH, I’m not sure this is the actual assigment, but the lines of the song that I choose are just too lovely for me and I could’t help it. It wrote itself, i swear

I don’t know if this is what you had in mind @mayatried but I hope you like it :)

Set during S&B

“Your Midas touch on the Chevy door

November flush and your flannel cure”

Alina treaded carefully through the dark. Night seemed to be abandoning its deepest cycle, but there was yet time before the sun arose. Everyone at the Little Palace slept, even Baghra in her hut -she suspected the woman slept, at least-, and Alina had begun to take advantage of such lonely hours to practice.

She walked around first, rounding part of the lake before taking a turn into a maze.

She liked the place. The polished bushes bloomed with flowers of various colors carefully planted within by the gardeners, and there were stone benches here and there.

A part of her wanted to get lost in there and never be found.

She shuddered and rubbed her arms, wishing she had taken a thicker kefta with her instead of the one currently upon her more rounded figure.

It was still strange, looking in the mirror and no longer seeing the bones of the ribs through the soft skin, or seeing her cheekbones softer and pink and full.

Her hands went up. She liked her new cheekbones. She felt pretty.

Deep into the maze, she shook her head to rid it of such frivolous thoughts and took a firm stand.

She closed her eyes and called the power inside of her. She had been able to summon after letting it all go at Baghras hut, but her progress was slow.

She supposed once couldn't heal a lifetime wound in a few weeks, but everyone had their eyes on her now, so maybe she'd have to suck it up.

A small bulb of light appeared in her hand, taking the shape of a sphere. She smiled softly, feeling its warmth.

Gently, she disentangled a hand and created another sphere of light.

Doing her best to ignore the cold and the sleepiness, she willed the spheres to stretch and join.

Trembling, they did.

It's a start.

She then forced them to unify into one long stick of light, flexible like a whip, and then she stretched her arms, elongating the light.

Next, she tried to grab a solid hold of the light with one hand and let the other drop.

To her surprise, it didn't burn her; it just filled her with a sense of power and surety.

Hesitant, lifted her arm, the light going with her, and slashed.

The flowers  on a big stone vase banished as if they had never existed, yet the stone remained practically untouched; a black, long spot its only scar.

"Impressive."

She jumped, turning to see The Darkling stepping forward, that blank expression on his face making it hard for her to believe him.

"I thought it wasn't enough." She said, remembering his words.

"It's not." He said, matter-of-factly, and Alina felt a small sting on her chest. "But you managed to get a solid, physical hold of your power already, however short lived it was, and that was impressive. It should have taken you more time."

She felt herself blushing under his praise.

"How did you find me?"

He remained silent for a moment or two, calculating probably as he always seemed to do. She couldn't really distinguish his features that well in the dark.

"Sometimes I like to sit at the edge of the lake to think. I find the still water most calming."

"You have a lot on your plate, don't you?" She asked, genuinely concerned.

He seemed to have huffed a laugh.

"You don't have to worry about me. Your only job is to strengthen your power."

"But I do!" She hurried to say,cheeks red. "I-I mean, I worry about you."

She looked down, and barely felt him approach as his boots stepped on the grass.

"You do?" She wasn't sure what to make of his tone, but Alina felt the need to reach out and take his hand.

Instead, she took a step forward and summoned her light, delicately running it over his face. He looked perfect, as usual, yet she wondered…

"When was the last time you slept?"

He chuckled, not turning away from her light.

"Do I look tired to you, Summoner?"

"No, but Genya is a miracle worker."

His lips quirked up.

"She is, indeed."

"A pity her talents are wasted on the queen and king." Alina said before she could even think of holding her tongue.

She tensed, but The Darkling nodded slowly, a shadow passing over his face.

"It is. She looks like a candle with her white kefta, but she'd be a walking flame in red."

Alina couldn't hide her surprise. Would he dare to promote her?

The Darkling stretched his arm out.

"But no more talk about that. Come, I shall teach you something."

Learning from The Darkling himself? Alina would never miss the chance. 

She eagerly followed him deeper into the maze, into a spacious area occupied only by grass.

Gracefully, he sat down.

"Next to me."

Much less gracefully, she did as he commanded, trying not to get grass or mud on her kefta. She placed her legs underneath her body and her hands on her lap, more than ready to soak in all the information he had to give.

She looked at his profile and felt her breath caught. Even in the dark, his pale face seemed perfectly clear to her.

She leaned her back against the wall of bushes, wincing only slightly as some small sticks pinched her back.

“Now what?”

“Are you afraid of your powers?” he asked.

“No.” she was too quick to reply.

“Do not lie to me, miss Starkov. I don’t take kindly to deceit.” he spoke calmly, yet she felt a small flicker of fear roll over her body.

“I am.” she muttered, so quietly she herself almost didn’t hear the words. She bit down on her lip and then opened her mouth: “I’m scared to not be enough to destroy The Fold. I feel like I’m not advancing fast enough. I’m also scared of how powerful I could get if I,...if I unleash it, and I’m scared it’ll consume me and I’ll let it.”

And that was only part of it. What if she accidentally hurt someone innocent? What if she failed? Why did people keep watching her in such various ways?

“A power, a gift like ours, is not bestowed upon just anyone. We have it because we were meant to wield it; because we are the only ones strong enough.” he leaned towards her, his expression almost gentle. “You will be magnificent, miss Starkov. I am well aware of what you could accomplish, and if you do get too lost, I’ll be right there to pull you back.”

“Do you promise?” she felt silly asking, like a child, but she needed some reassurance.

Everyone was so expectant of her, of great achievements she was terrified of, that having someone who could understand her and seemed to genuinely believe in her capabilities -without making a fuss or calling her a Saint- sent a tidal wave of reassurance that could’ve dropped her on her ass if she hadn’t been already seated.

“I do.” he replied, his voice filling the entire space they occupied. He leaned back, face blank again. “Now, close your eyes.”

Alina did as he said.

“Deep breaths.”

She slowly took in a big gulp of cold, late-autumn air. She shivered.

“Now,” he said, and his voice sounded right by her ear, his beard brushing against her soft skin and threatening to ruin the whole process. “Feel the light.”

“It’s the middle of the night.”

“It’s inside you, miss Starkov.”

“Alina.”

He said nothing, but she felt him tense. “Feel it.”

She reached down, deep within herself for that almost familiar warmth, and smiled softly when it answered her with an enthusiastic twinkle.

“Now, imagine it all over your body, every inch of it, warm and gold.”

That twinkle in her chest seemed to have steadied, and with the utmost focus, Alina began to picture it covering her chest, travelling down her arms and legs, all the way to the tips of her toes. 

She shivered again, the sudden change in temperature taking her body by surprise.

She opened her eyes and looked down, and found a faint glow on her hands. She felt the currents of wind but they didn’t affect her. She was as warm as if she were well sunked in a hot bath.

She looked up at The Darkling, who almost smirked; she was sure of it!

“Well, now I know I won’t freeze to death on the mountains.”

“You plan on going to the mountains?” he asked, almost amused.

She flushed.

“N-no, it was,...um, it was a joke.”

He chuckled silently, and Alina tilted her head as he shifted in his place.

“You’re cold.”

“I am perfectly fine;  thank you, Alina.” he answered, the perfect liar.

The use of her name made her falter, and after a second it made her feel more secure, however odd that may sound. She scooted closer to him and again, bought her hand up to his cheek. It was cold.

The Darkling almost seemed startled for a moment, but then, when Alina thought he might push her away, he slowly lifted his arm, bringing her to his side.

She looked up at the stars shining down on them, at the full moon, so beautiful and unreachable, just, or so she thought, as the man next to her.

“Can you feel the warmth too?” she asked softly.

A moment passed and she felt his lips ghost over her hair.

“I can feel you, Alina.”

She couldn’t help but smile and cuddle even closer, daring to press her front to his side and take a hold of his dark cloak.

Slowly, he placed his chin atop of her head.

Alina didn’t move, enjoying the moment. Cheeks red as they could be and her heart beating faster than a rabbit’s. She just enjoyed the silent environment, the quiet rustle of leaves and the voices of night.

Cuddling with the most powerful, dangerous man in all of Ravka, Alina felt the pressure set upon her shoulders since she arrived at the Little Palace fade away, like it didn’t matter. Yes, it was a tough task; but just like with anything that proved difficult, she’d advance little by little.

She dared to wrap an arm around his midsection, his own free arm engulfing her as well as he muttered something.

His breathing had slowed and steadied, his heart beat strong inside its cavity.

Carefully, she lifted her eyes as best she could without moving him, and realized he had fallen asleep.

With a contented sigh, she buried her face into his chest and closed her own eyes.

Somehow, the feel of his cloak around her, his frame against her, and her dim light keeping them warm felt far more comfortable than the luxurious bed all but forgotten in her bedroom.

[cheri-translates]

[CN] Traveling with you - Kiro

🍒 Warning: This post contains detailed spoilers for an event, 与你同游, which has not been released in English servers! 🍒

This is an event for Chinese New Year, where you get to visit a Spring Festival Temple Fair with the love interests :>

Players are able to select the order in which they visit various locations, so they aren’t meant to be in chronological order!

Prologue: here

More: Gavin l Lucien l Shaw l Victor

🌟 TEXT 🌟

MC: Ding dong--

MC: You’ve received a new invitation. Do you wish to open it immediately?

Kiro: Nope.

MC: Why can’t you cooperate with me?

Kiro: I’m waiting for Miss Chips to invite me personally, and not some automated system. 

Kiro: However, since Miss Chips has appeared, where are you inviting me out to?

MC: Will you be really busy these days?

MC: I just saw a pamphlet for this year’s Loveland Temple Fair, so I immediately wanted to ask if you wanted to go.

Kiro: A temple fair! What a lively place!

Kiro: Yes yes yes, we’ll go tomorrow.

MC: But you’re still quite eye-catching... will anyone notice you?

Kiro: The temple fair will be really crowded, so no one will pay me any mind.

Kiro: Also, I can put on a disguise. With a wig, hat, and spectacles, I can guarantee that no one will recognise me!

MC: Along with your excellent acting skills, mm... perfect!

MC: In that case, let’s rest early tonight, and rush there together tomorrow.

Kiro: Sure. Goodnight, Miss Chips. I’ll look for you in my dreams~

-

🌟 Location: Traditional Snacks Stall 🌟

MC: I notified Savin beforehand. Today, you’re allowed to have food that’s “not so healthy”.

Kiro: Yay, long live Miss Chips!

MC: Don’t celebrate too early. Next week, he’s going to supervise your workout sessions.

Kiro: Things belonging to next week shall be left to next week. Let’s hurry and see what delicious foods there are.

Standing next to the snacks stall, the both of us involuntarily glance at the same spot-

Golden-bright tornado potatoes are lined up neatly behind the glistening glass shelf. The strong scent of fried potatoes awaken the hungry bug in my belly.

Three minutes later, we carry three sticks of tornado potatoes, walking along the street of the temple fair.

Kiro: It’s horrible that there aren’t smaller versions of this. Otherwise, we’d be able to try all sixteen flavours!

MC: Exactly! If we weren’t leaving room for snacks later, we’d have definitely gotten them all!

We nibble on the carefully selected spicy river snail noodles, smoked salmon and honey flavoured tornado potatoes. Fragrance and crispiness mark the start of the Spring Festival’s delicacy journey.

-

🌟 Location: Game Stall 🌟

Kiro: Scissors, paper...

MC: Stone!

Kiro: I also did ‘paper’!

At a tie yet again, the level of chemistry we have is really pretty high.

MC: Why don’t we state the game we want to try at the same time? Three, two, one!

Kiro: Pitch-pot!

MC: Pitch-pot!

Kiro: Great minds think alike.

[Note] Pitch-pot is a traditional East Asian game that requires players to throw sticks, arrows, darts, etc. from a distance into a large canister!

Without another word, I quickly pull him over to the destination.

When we arrive at the pitch-pot stall, there aren’t many people there. A few participants even wear Hanfu while playing.

Kiro: So cool. Next time, we've got to dress like that too.

MC: It’s more practical for you to think about how to throw the arrows into the canister first.

Kiro: No problem. Leave it to me!

The so-called “leave it to me” is basically Kiro borrowing the flexibility from years of dancing experience, and leaning forward.

Instead of saying that he’s “throwing” the arrows, it’s more accurate to say that he’s “dropping” the arrows. But it’s actually really effective.

Fan A: Look at that guy over there. His profile resembles Kiro.

Fan B: Yes, yes, the way he stretched his arm out - doesn’t it look like the signature move from his recent title track?

Kiro stiffens. Hand trembling, the final arrow falls outside the canister.

Our eyes meet, and we hurriedly take the prize from the store owner, fleeing the scene quickly.

-

🌟 Location: Firecracker Stall 🌟

Kiro: “Tiny Magic Firecrackers”? Why does that sound like a secret weapon belonging to a superhero?

Kiro and I are squatting in front of a stall selling firecrackers, and he’s looking at the rope-like firecrackers in my hand.

MC: In that case, I’ll give you a proper look at the broad and profound world of firecrackers. Here. Hold this end, then light the other end.

Kiro follows what I say, and my words are drowned out amid the loud sounds of the firecrackers.

Even though it’s daytime, the flames from the tiny firecrackers remain spectacular.

The fireworks extinguish very quickly, and Kiro’s blue eyes sparkle.

Kiro: Turns out there are firecrackers I can hold in my hand! It reminds me of a French cartoon with a mystical dragon with the ability to produce fireworks! I wonder if I’d look dashing in pictures if I were to swing them around at night?

Despite my repeated reminders telling him to take care of his safety, he continues setting off a box of tiny firecrackers.

Seeing his face blackening from the smoke, I chuckle while buying him another stick.

-

🌟 Location: Auspicious Stall 🌟

Kiro: So? Can you see it?

MC: Mm... I think I see the word “Middle”.

This year’s Auspicious Stall involves pulling slips of paper which have been tied onto red strings at quite a height, and they aren’t easy to retrieve.

We’re currently looking through two binoculars that Kiro conjured out of nowhere, carefully inspecting the thin slips of paper to see if we can spot the words on them.

MC: I think I see one with the word “Great” - it’s over there.

Kiro quickly brings over a ladder and steps onto it. With my guidance, he selects a slip.

Unfolding it, the red “Small Blessings” rests on the paper quietly. At the bottom, there’s a random line written it: “Men of great wisdom often seem slow-witted”.

I can’t help but burst into laughter.

Kiro: Ooh, why do I feel as though the words are implying something about me?

MC: So why were you so determined to draw “Great Blessings”?

Kiro: It’s all because I want everything in life to go smoothly for you...

Kiro sighs, and it seems he’s genuinely upset about this. My heart grows warm.

MC: With Kiro by my side, I’m already lucky enough!

-

🌟 Location: New Year Handmade Items Stall 🌟

Next to the table, Kiro is facing the sample “ushering in wealth and prosperity” ideogram.

Kiro: You know that I’m not really good at drawing. This is far too difficult to write.

MC: But earlier, you very clearly promised that you’d write a word for me.

Kiro looks aggrieved.

Kiro: Could you pick an easier word? I can’t write it if it’s too difficult. If it looks ugly, the blessings won’t come true.

MC: I’ll lower the difficulty for you then. Just write the word “blessing”.

Kiro nods happily, copying the word incredibly earnestly.

Since he isn’t used to writing with a brush, every stroke is extremely meticulous.

Even after he’s done with the final stroke, Kiro’s brush doesn’t stop.

Kiro: In order to make up for the strokes I couldn’t write, I’ve specially drawn a few more...

Two teddy bears are leaning their heads against each other. The teddy bear on the right even has an adorable tiny flower on its head.

Kiro: This is a out-of-print, limited-edition Kiro calligraphy, and it’s given to the only Miss Chips in the world. Don’t worry, I’ll continue creating things for you wholeheartedly in the year ahead.

[arysthaeniru]

aAAA the joy of seeing an update on your current favorite fanfic is just aAAA

I always felt that kiwami 1s Nishiki was just a bit too,, I dont know how to describe it; but essentially he just felt off, granted yakuza 1 is a product of its time and therefore the plot is a bit dated and whack as all hell

The way you write Nishiki just feels so much better and realistic; in the original he just seems so uncaring towards Kiryu? which just feels kinda OOC? You'd think he still cares about Kiryu despite it all, especially when you take Yakuza 0 into consideration; and i feel like you portray Nishiki much more accurately

I never thought much about Yumi, because honestly, in the original she was kinda just, there? You actually made her a very interesting person! like I'm actually invested in her in your story! (side note you ever think about her clone who got tortued and died? yeah who WAS that???? thats never brought up is it??)

Theres so much more to talk about but in short; This is the best fix it/rewrite of a game plot I have read to date and it brings me joy in my current stressful school life. and no I will not stop praising it or the author, because this work has made me very happy. ;)

I just have a gift for picking favorites that end up dying,,aand another favorite of mine is Mine

imo theres a lack of soft, reassuring Minedai, i just feel like he'd need a reminder that people love him as a person and not just for the money he can provide, even if its obvious

I'd love to see how you'd write them, but I understand if theres more interesting/appealing drabble requests!

- Carp

CARP, thank you for this <3 this is so sweet!!!!! I’m so happy you enjoy my Nishiki! I had fun playing with what Yakuza 0/the Kiwami additions gave us about Nishiki’s personality and outlook on the world, and trying to reconcile that with the plot that Yakuza 1 initially had. Ultimately, I fell on the side that you did: even if Nishiki’s ambition took him down a monstrous path, I don’t think he’s the sort of person who neglects to pay back his debts. And he’s aware of the huge debt he owes Kiryu. Not to mention, their bonds of trust and love vanishing completely because of jealousy felt unreal to me. Their relationship becoming twisted or strange? Yes, but vanishing entirely felt unsatsifying to me. 

And Yumi!! I had so much fun excavating her character from the clues we get of her in canon. I worry sometimes, that she’s unrecognizable, because you know, I’ve given her a college education, and a whole bunch of interests beyond hostessing alone, but people seem to like it and like her, which is great!! I hate fridging women characters, so keeping her and Reina alive was important to me, hahaha. (RE: fake!Mizuki, there’s this substory in Kiwami that actually addresses who she was, BUT IT’S EVEN MORE HORRIFYING. So that’s why Yumi in my fic is the one captured and tortured by Nishiki’s men, because the thought of this poor innocent woman getting dragged into the mess was just untenable to me.)  

Anyway, thank you for your support and kind words, and I hope you’ll continue to read and that my fic can continue to relieve stress. I--tried to write this about Mine, but Daigo kind of stole the spotlight a little??? I hope you still like it--if not, I will try a ficlet from Mine’s perspective too. I enjoy minedai a lot, but I haven’t had room to think out their dynamic yet, so this took me a while. 

Daigo’s no stranger to being desired. He’s attractive, he knows this—his mother’s beauty lives in his veins, and he’s always had the money to look after himself. Fancy soaps to wash his face, the invisible retainers to keep his teeth straight, fancy suits and skin-tight shirts to show off his frame. For all that Kiryu insists his charisma is something that comes from the soul, Daigo knows it wouldn’t be able to draw the sort of attention he does without being attractive.

Which is to say that Daigo’s not especially thrown off by the intensity of Mine’s gaze. It’s happened before, and it’ll happen again. The thing that surprises him is how much he relishes in being seen by Mine.

Maybe it’s because Mine’s an island in a stormy sea, one of the only yakuza his age who’s sensible and level-headed enough to make it big. Maybe it’s because Mine’s gaze is always so reserved, polite, never overly lusty or overstaying its welcome, and Daigo has so rarely been desired so quietly. Or maybe it’s because Majima and Kashiwagi so clearly disapprove of him—Daigo’s always been something of a rebel, and he hasn’t shaken that off, even now he’s in his thirties and is the arbiter of rules for the Tojo Clan.

Daigo can’t quite put a pin on why he’s so comfortable with Mine’s yearning looks, but he’s never been one to hold back when he wants to indulge in something good. Not exactly a hedonist, not by yakuza standards, but Daigo has never kept himself from enjoying life, in the name of some dubious ‘honour.’

Which is why, in an after-hours meeting with Mine, as they eat cheap takeout sushi together, Daigo takes his chance. A momentary slip, the slightest hint of wasabi left at the corners of Mine’s lips and Daigo swoops in, rubs a thumb over the corner of Mine’s lips. Mine stutters to a stop, mid-sentence through a rundown of the real-estate that the Hakuho Clan’s been purchasing up, and stares at Daigo, eyes bewildered.

“Sixth Chairman?” he asks, his voice still remarkably composed.

“Wasabi.” Daigo says, nonchalantly, as if it’s nothing, and sticks his thumb into his mouth, slowly licking it off with a lingering lave of his tongue. He feels a sharp stab of satisfaction as Mine’s eyes turn darker, and his gaze follows Daigo’s hand down.  

Daigo straightens up, languidly, and cracks his neck, casually. At this point in the day, he’s untucked his shirt, and he knows that a slight strip of his stomach will be visible when he stretches out his arms towards the ceiling. And as predictably as clockwork, Mine’s gaze darts downwards, to that pale expanse, to catch that brief second of skin. Daigo can’t help but feel warm. Something about being watched by Mine is exhilarating.

“Smoke?” offers Daigo, but as usual, Mine refuses, with a polite shake of his head.

Daigo knows from hearsay that Mine’s something a health-freak, so he’s not entirely surprised. It’s already too late for Daigo to preserve his health—he knows that his liver’s already been pretty ruined from long nights of binge-drinking as a youth, and this job’s too stressful to withhold from vices like smoking and drinking, without an optimal end-goal. So he walks over to the window, cracks it open a little, and lights up.

The breath of nicotine curls over his body, a tender caress, and Daigo feels his shoulders drop, as the relaxation hits. He pulls off his cufflinks, tosses them into his pockets and rolls up his sleeves. He takes it slow, runs his fingers over his skin a little more than strictly necessary. Surreptitiously checking the reflection in the window, Daigo watches Mine watch him, and smirks at how intense that gaze is, how Mine’s mouth has opened, and Daigo can just see the soft pink of his tongue.

“Dojima’s just fine, you know. When it’s just us two.” Daigo says, turning over his shoulder. He smiles, one of those charming smiles that had always gotten him whatever he wanted as a child, “We’re same-aged friends, after all.”

“Dojima-san.” Mine acknowledges, after a brief pause.

Daigo turns around, to properly look at Mine and lifts an eyebrow. “Dojima. Or Daigo, preferably. Dojima-san’s always my father in my head.”

Mine nods, face impassive. Daigo can’t read him like this. Maybe that’s why he likes when Mine stares at him, filled with longing. At least then, Daigo feels like he knows him. In moments like these, his implacable gazes might as well be a brick wall. “Right. Your Father was also in the Tojo Clan.”

Daigo smiles, wryly, and blows out a puff of smoke. “One of the most horrible men I’ve ever had the misfortune of meeting—and I had to call him Father. But damn if he wasn’t good at the job.” He sighs and stubs the cigarette out against the ashtray. “...sometimes feel like I’m competing with his dead spirit. Everybody’s looking at me and wondering if this is what my Father would do. Or what Kiryu-san would do.”

“You’re doing better than any of them.” Mine says, immediately, with a vicious ferocity that Daigo wasn’t expecting. He can’t quite stop his eyebrows rising in surprise, and Mine straightens upwards, looking self-conscious immediately. Daigo regrets his instinctual reaction, immediately. “That is to say, Dojima, that I think that you’ve pulled this Clan into somewhere far more respectable. From what I’ve heard of your Father, he didn’t have the temperament to do proper business on this level—too insistent on formal obeisance and unable to be flexible as the times require. And Kiryu-san might be very honourable, but we are yakuza. There are certain things you have to do as a Chairman, that he couldn’t bring himself to do. But you are practical and do what is necessary, while also not overstepping into excessive violence. You are uniquely suited for this job, Dojima.”

...he’s taken aback a little, he can’t deny it. Daigo wonders if his cheeks are colouring, wonders if his obvious shock is offputting, wonders if this is how Mine feels every time Daigo teases him lightly about his obvious attraction. A startling warmth spreads through his chest, and Daigo can’t stop the slight smile that touches his face. Has anybody ever said something so unreservedly kind and measured about Daigo before?

Maybe this is the difference between everybody else’s gazes on him, and Mine’s gaze. It’s based on something more than desire alone. Respect.

Daigo runs a hand over his slicked-back hair and ruffles it free, with a rueful smile, a smile that he couldn’t take away from his face, even if he tried. “I appreciate that. You know I couldn’t do it without you, right?”

He’d never really believed himself capable of attraction to a man like Mine. All of his previous childhood crushes had been on bright, cheerful conversational, pure-hearted people. Daigo had always figured they would balance out his sardonic cynicism. He’d never thought someone as reserved and principled as Mine would ever make his heart flutter. But then, there was something about that deep hunger and passion that Daigo craved. Perhaps it was because he was no longer the gloomy punk of his youth. Maybe his tastes have changed towards tall, dark and handsome. Maybe Mine’s just that special.

“Dojima��” Mine says, clearly trying to refute it, but Daigo cuts him off.

“I mean it. Everybody in this fucking Clan wants me to do something or be somebody else. Kashiwagi-san wants me to be my mother. Majima-san wants me to be Kiryu-san. Everybody else expects my Father. But not you. You deal with me honestly, and with candour, and never hold any expectations against me except success. I appreciate your faith in me.” Daigo takes a couple of steps forward, until his shoes almost brush up against Mine’s own. He leans down over Mine’s chair. “I could not do this without your backing and help. Truly. I don’t think I’ve ever had someone like you in my life. A true friend.”

Mine tilts his chin up to meet Daigo’s gaze, a hungry devotion in his eyes, and Daigo, for a moment, wonders if this is wrong. If he should hold back, like Kiryu would. But Daigo is Daigo, and Mine clearly wants him anyway, so he leans down and kisses him.

Mine’s mouth is velvety smooth and wet and hot and it is oh-so satisfying a feeling to put his hand against Mine’s broad neck and feel his warmth up against Daigo. He pulls back, with a satisfied sigh, and feels the burn of wasabi across his lips, a final parting kick.

[crystalelemental]

Okay, is anyone else bothered by the free Solgaleo being with MU?  Like, we get all these cool legends handed out, for free, and one of them is Solgaleo, a bit legend from Alola.  And yet...no Alolan unit has it.   Why?  Why the useless MU? Was there a reason that Alola had to be the only region without a free legend? MU doesn't count for the theme skill, so like...what the fuck?  I'm not exactly mad about it not being Lillie since we got Anni Lillie instead, but Gladion?  A Selene or Elio, or their USUM counterparts?  Hau, since he's in the event? Professor Burnet?  Anyone from Alola at all?

General Overview I've kinda come around on Solgaleo a bit.  This is mostly because, prior to this week, I found Solgaleo somewhat underwhelming.  Wow, a self buff that gets both offenses and enough accuracy to never miss, that's so good!  Shame it's 3-gauge use.  Sunsteel Strike seems solid, but it's weirdly low BP.  Base 100 is...Psychic-tier, which isn't inherently terrible, but it's definitely not winning any awards based on power.   And for all its offense buffs, it can't buff crit, which is a problem.

What's won me over is Legendary Gauntlet.  See, Sunsteel Strike may not be crazy high damage by itself, but what it does do is bypass damage reduction.  In the current run of Azelf/Cobalion/Entei, two of them use a form of damage reduction.  Azelf is bypasses by having both forms of offenses, while Cobalion can be hit with Sunsteel Strike without the need for status, which is huge in this mode where you can't reuse units.  Accuracy buffs may also prove helpful against Cresselia, but I'd have to really see how that one plays out.  Probably still need Snatch/Haze.

I won't pretend like Solgaleo doesn't have serious problems, but it's a really nice one to pick up for this event, and I think it'll have a lot of utility in future Gauntlets as well.

Team 1: Solgaleo, Hop/Kiawe, Bugsy&Scyther/Skyla Hop activates matching Steel-type theme skill, while Bugsy and Scyther can debuff foe's offense.  Best of all, Bugsy also helps supplement Hop's inevitable failure to get MPR  on his trainer move, so that's helpful.   Potion on Hop to heal keeps the team alive while you work on slowly tearing down the foe.  However, Kiawe and Skyla are a potential alternative.  Kiawe offers defense drops as well as the crit buffs Solgaleo needs, while Skyla can buff defense and speed.  It's using two Potion-users though, so...I don't know if I'm a fan of this.

Team 2: Solgaleo, Palentine's Dawn, Kimono Jasmine/Falkner/Sabrina A more Focus-Blast oriented approach.  Palentine's Dawn can debuff special defense of the foe, while one of the usual suspects can buff crit and special attack.  However, because Solgaleo can buff its own special attack, you may only need crit rate buff.  But.  And this is a huge but.  Palentine's Dawn is slow and takes 2 gauge to do her debuff, while Solgaleo is slow and takes 3 no matter what it does.  Crit buffers exist, but are often slow, bulky supporters as well. Just...be mindful of gauges.  Sabrina may be optimal here.

Team 3: Solgaleo, Maylene, Skyla Maylene can buff crit and is F2P, so for now she's like your only option since you can't run Solgaleo and Torchic together.  Thankfully, Solgaleo has Sharp Entry, and can cap crit even without MPR.  Maylene can help buff up Solgaleo for Sunsteel Strike, while Skyla is defense and speed buffs and Potion support keeping the team alive.  If Maylene survives long enough, you even have Rock Smash to help push up the damage.

Team 4: Solgaleo, Leaf, NY!Lillie or crit buffer This is a team I've been using to farm Azelf wins.  It's very consistent, and I think a good general structure for any Legendary Gauntlet pick, for a few reasons.  First is the obvious, Solgaleo bypasses damage reduction, so whatever game they're playing doesn't matter.  Second, your crit buffer can be anyone, which allows for a lot of flexibility; NY!Lillie is just optimal here because self-recovery and evasion buffs. But the biggest benefit is Leaf herself.  Guaranteed buffs on sync, double Potion MPR, can fully refresh move gauge, flinch on Tackle is fantastic against single-target fights, and best of all, Impervious.   Azelf's been a major pest, and the reason Leaf dunks on it so hard is because of Impervious.  It can't reduce her defenses like it does with so many others.  As a result, any other Legendary Arena match where the foe can routinely decrease defenses (Which are all three of the current ones) are handled by Leaf.  Slap her and Solgaleo on a team and you have a recipe for success.

Final Thoughts Solgaleo is so weird.  I legitimately considered it the second worst legendary units alongside Zinniquaza until literally this week, when it turned out Sunsteel Strike is outrageously good against damage-reduction foes.  I probably own Anni N and apology too; bypassing damage reduction stuff is huge, and with a good defensive backbone, these units can really shine in the Gauntlet.  And right now, at least for me, Solgaleo is absolutely shining.  Shame about the lame MU.  Seriously, it could’ve been anyone else.

[snickiebear]

yo nadia <3333 i'm bored in my online classes and u reblogged the questions thingy at the right time lmao, so get ready: 1, 4, 5, 9, 10, 17, 23, 24, 28, 30!!!, 34, 38, 39, 40 (the intimacy of being understood) (imma stop here lol) (also i'm sorry u're not feeling well, ily and hope u'll feel better soon!! <33333)

ELE ILY. (and thank you, i’m stayin home today cause,,, yeah. i appreciate you sm.) you’re the literal best, i adore you. 

1. How long ago did you start reading fanfiction? Writing fanfiction?

The first fanfiction i read was for The Lunar Chronicles when I was like 11?? and it was 100% on accident and it scarred me because it was a hardcore porn one with a period kink and i was like WHAT IS THIS??? OH MY GOD???? LMAOOOOO i didn’t pick it back up until i was 13-14 and really got into the Fairy Tail fandom. I still reread my favorites on ff.net cause i love them. 

As for writing, I wrote a horrible, terrible x-men fanfiction when I was twelve. (my friend still brings it up and REFUSES to delete it so it still gets comments and views, that shit HAUNTS ME ELE.) then tried again for Fairy Tail, posted like two chapters before taking it down cause i wasn’t really feeling it. And then I posted The Intimacy Of Being Understood and here we are. 

4. Link your three favorite fics right now.

OMGG okok 

@murd3rm1ttens ‘s The Problem How Time Works IF YOU HAVENT READ THIS YOU GUYS NEED TO HOP ON IT ASAP. MITTEN’S WRITING SO SO SO SO GOOD. SAKURA AND INO ARE TOTAL BADASSES. KAKASHI IS A SIMPPPP. ITS SO FUCKING GOOD. 

@mouseymightymarvellous ‘s We Were Screaming In Color (Only A Possibility) yes, yes I KNOW. i always point into mousey’s direction but i WILL always advocate that everyone reads her fics, they’re literally so beautiful???? i just happen to be rereading WWSIN rn 

@safelycapricious ‘s Shaking Up And Breaking Down series. I found this like?? idfk but i’ve been raving about it ever since. ALSO CHECK OUT THEIR FICS IN GENERAL. 

fuck i have more than three but also check out @ambivalens999 ‘s Masks

i do wanna make a fic rec thing where i just rav about my favs,,, might do that later or sum

5. What are your fanfic pet peeves? Do they have a huge effect on whether or not you decide to read something?

Omniscient third person. I don’t like it. Like I can understand that it can be a little hard to stay in one person’s perspective but, in my opinion, if you can, it shows how disciplined you are as a writer. Plus, i just get so confused when I go from A’s thoughts to suddenly what B is thinking about A. 

When writers use ‘ ‘ instead of “ “. When writers put thoughts in ‘ ‘ instead of just italicizing them. It’s small things but like they just bother me sO MUCH. most of the time i can ignore it and try to enjoy but other times i just dip. 

9. Tag 3 fic writers you think are underrated/unknown in the fandom/fanfiction community.

@espoir-et-reves !!!!! THEIR SHISAKU FICS ARE SO SO SO SO SO GOOD. And they have a warring states one going on THAT I AM SO OBSESSED WITH. 

@writer168 idk if they’re really “underrated” but THEY HAVE SUCH GREAT FICS ON AO3. Like theres an AU with sakura, kiba, and shino that i reread constantly because it just. is. so. fucking. GOOD. and they posted a new one that i’m YELLING about. 

@eggtoasties okay they only have 2 in the naruto fandom (one shisaku which is still ongoing) BUT THEIR WRITING STYLE IS SO NICE?? I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT. I still go back and reread their shikasaku one cause UGH i can’t get enough. I love it. 

10. What’s your favorite fandom, pairing, or character to read fic for?

Fandoms: Naruto, Soul Eater, The Old Guard, ATLA

Parings: KakaSaku/ShikaSaku/ShiSaku/MultiSaku, SoMa, Joe X Nicky, Zukka

Character: SAKURA. I will read anything with Sakura as the main character and her being a fuckin badass or becoming a badass. I love her.

17. How obsessively do you sit and stare at your fic after you’ve just posted and wait for feedback?

aha.. haha.. well. I check my email like three times an hour. its the first thing i check in the mornings too. I’m literally a whore for praise and literally eat up feedback like its going out of style. I also reread a lot of my stuff because i make so many mistakes and spelling errors, or the spacing is weird oR SOMETHING. plus, literally any and all comments make my day, i go back and reread them cause they just make me feel so tingly and warm like “wow. this person enjoyed the fic/my writing enough to tell me. thats HUGE!”

23. What’s your absolute favorite trope to write?

Angry, feral, bloodied, morally gray women. They aren’t bad guys, they’re probably the good guy, but that doesn’t mean they cant be fucking raging at the world with raw knuckles and blood on their teeth. I just love an angry woman who struggles with her emotions and just has so much inner conflict but that doesn’t take away from her character or badassery, it adds to it. 

24. What’s a trope that you’d like to never hear about as long as you live, let alone write?

The fake dating or miscommunication troupe. LIKE GUYS JUST TALK. AND TELL EACH OTHER OMFG. the entire like obliviousness of “nah they dont like me” while the They holds their hand and kisses their cheek. MOFO WHAT. it makes me so impatient and like mad HAAHHAHA. its probably because i’m a pretty confrontational person so seeing stuff like that just “cmon bro, USE YO HEAD.”

28. How do you deal with writing pressure (ie: pressure to update, negative comments, deadlines, etc)?

I have yet to receive a negative comment! Which i was really surprised about tbh. As for deadlines or pressure to update, i just kind of do whatever. I do set goals, but i set them flexible enough that hey, if i can’t do it, that’s okay. 

I have a lot of mini goals, like “i want to write this chapter and get it done this week” and then the large goal is “FINISH BY END OF MAY” so i have time. 

Actually, now that I think on it, the entire pressure to update thing is probably why i’m waiting until I have all of OL&W written to post it weekly,, cause well. I wouldn’t wanna leave you guys waiting as I tried to write and work out the next chapters and stuff, you know?

30. Post a snippet from your current WIP without context - no more than 300 words.

AAAAAA YOU KNOW I LOVE THESE AHAHAHAH

Have you seen the way the dead dance, World Breaker? They roar, half mad and starving. Do you not wish, do you not hope to see them twist and bend and dance to your will?

Shikamaru snarls, looking behind his shoulders to where his Shadows lay. “Patience.” He spits. “Is of the essence, Things of Ancient. Know your place as the dark you are.”

34. How much of yourself and your life experiences do you put into your writing? What do you think your readers’ image of you is?

None of my experiences match up to anything I write tbh,,, probably the only thing that is me in my writing is maybe the emotional turmoil? I’m pretty emotionally and mentally mature because from a pretty young age i started forming my own opinions, started looking into the world around us and being like “dude what the fuck this is not what disney advertised”. Then i started talking (read: arguing and debating) with my dad about a lot of it. So, like emotions are kind of hard for me. Like i’m pretty good at controlling them or understanding them, but still. idk its hard to explain ig.

Like the weight of stress, the anger, the sadness. It’s kind of therapeutic to write. Cause i don’t know how to put those feelings to verbal words so writing them really helps. 

As for my readers’ image? Probably like some kind of hunched over figure typing away in the dark with a maniacal grin on their face. I honestly don’t know AHHAHAHA but it is fun to think about. I think they’d see me as someone with potential but a lot of room to grow and someone who is imperfect but in a charming way LMAOOOO

38. What does your writing process look like? How chaotic is it on a scale of 1 (very tame) to 10 (you can’t handle this kind of chaos)?

I’m gonna be real honest. Its probably like a 2. I’m a bit of a control freak so I almost always go in chronological order, my writing is pretty linear. Unless, i get bored and jump to one of my fav parts. It's pretty much i sit down, i open the doc, read over my notes and just start writing. 

It’s a little boring to explain AHAHAHA but once i get into the groove of things its really fucking great, I can like feel myself in the world, I can feel what i want the characters to, i love it. I catch myself mouthing the words as i type too, which i find hilarious.

39. What’s something about your writing that you pride yourself on?

I rather like how raw my writing is sometimes. Which might sound really vain, but i do like the way i word things or describe things. I love juxtaposition and repetition, or making a good ole circle back to some minute detail that wouldn’t stand out until i repeat it at the end and you’re like “omg” AHAHAHAHA.

Like those little poetic snippets or certain wording i just sit back and go “damn thats kinda good nadia! go you!’ HAHAHA  

40. How did you come up with the idea for The Intimacy Of Being Understood?

AAAAA this fic is like my first child, my pride and joy LMAO

so the idea initially came when i was reading some fic, idk if it was even naruto, but i was like “i don't like this, but i do like the rain symbolism.” And I knew i wanted to write something kind of slow paced, something a little sad and angsty, but would show KakaSaku slowly but surely falling in love.

Idk if you’ve noticed but a lot of my fics, the pairings don’t change each other dramatically. They accept each other as they are and then they grow with together. Like that acceptance is something i just love writing, its so subtle, it isn’t something you declare. Its simply “I am going to love you. I am going to love you despite your flaws and faults. I am going to love you unconditionally because I know you, I understand you, and there is nothing you could do to drive me away.” 

The fic kind of wrote itself after that first scene. I kept going back to the rain, go being ghosts, and resurrection, and the small epiphanies one gets. I wanted to focus on each character’s growth with each other. They didn’t find light in life because of each other, but with each other. And i think that’s my favorite thing about that fic. 

I wanted something raw and real and just something beautiful. I’m actually really proud of it tbh. Would i go back and rewrite/edit it? Oh of course! I’d do that with every single one of my fics, but i’m not gonna cause i think its in its rawest form right now. :))))

ask me shit plz