#and the things I refer to are not material really they’re just some aspect of friendship

[kavehater]

Truthfully it would be easier if I just isolate myself from everyone simply because after so long of just shoving things down and being told to shove things down and being told to get over it and stop being sensitive I’ve become so much more sensitive after being so unfeeling and it’s ruining everything

Not even having aventurine could fix this 😔🙏 LOLLL

[cdlum]

I just wanted to say I think your art style is awesome! I was wondering if you had any tutorials on how you draw anatomy in your style (hips and legs especially)? Sorry if there's already one posted and I just didn't see it 🥲. Happy New Year :>

thanks for the kind words. i tend to draw people pretty stylized and then some so a good bit of artistic licence gets used. these tips are just what i use so feel free to take them with a grain of salt. with anatomy in particular you can kind of talk in circles because human/animal bodies are that complex so ill just zone in on the points you specified. here's a little image with a bunch of pointers:

the above image condenses a lot of the points I'd make, but basically the key parts are to start with the bare essentials and build up that complexity. using a line of action is a good way to get a quick, rough start. you draw a line out in the general direction of the pose and do your best to adhere to it to give the pose a sense of flow.

you can also draw smaller, thumbnail versions that throw a lot of caution to the wind but capture the basic energy of what you're going for. even having a tiny little stick figure version of your idea can make for a good guideline of where to take it forward.

when it comes to actual limbs, you wanna consider how they integrate and work together, kind of like how chains do. you can see on some of the parts of pear i've drawn out these wireframes to kind of portray how the mass of her legs works in a three dimensional space. for aspects like the waist/hips, i use that X technique i highlight above a lot, particularly for the lower torso. a lot of the times, even when drawing a character totally naked, imagining them wearing things like skintight underwear can help a lot to guide you in the right direction.

its also a good idea to consider things like gravity and weight to a degree. humans are essentially big meat sacks and gravity is always pulling down on that, but theres all kinds of aspects that effect that, such as character build or clothing. pear technically isn't naked in this, but i've tried to imagine her as such and take that into account.

if you are drawing digitally, don't be afraid to take advantage of the convenience you get with that workflow. you can retry and iterate on things a lot faster that pen and paper, and do things that aren't really feasible at all when it comes to editing and modifying your existing work. things like resizing certain bodyparts, instantly flipping the canvas, or using selection tools to completely adjust the positions of parts of your drawing. to give you an example heres a timelapse with all the little edits i made just to this demo drawing:

you don't have to use these techniques linearly, either. sometimes ill have a really solid idea for a piece in my head, and go back to basics with certain elements if they’re not coming out right or i just want to brush them up a bit more. some of the tutorial-y parts i added in i didn't actually use during the drawing but often do use so they're there just for demonstration. not every drawing i do starts as building blocks or a really basic version, often ill just start with a face and build it out from there.

i always encourage liberally using references (this can include yourself) and trying out stuff like life drawing or looking at things like existing photographs of real people/places/things if you can, the more you use learning material the better you'll draw up a mental inventory in your head that you can rely on more and more. some of these tips are things i've learned from other artists over the years (the chin one especially i remember seeing a tutorial about lol), so this is a lot of knowledge i've amassed from other sources over time myself. there are plenty of times ill use all sorts of reference material and its all in service of arriving at the final destination as smoothly as possible. learn by doing, as they say. hope this helps!

[goldensunset]

so like. what is majora's mask about (is one of like 3 people who's dodged it on the internet somehow)

ohHO you’ve made a mistake

the basic gist of it is that the moon is about to crash into the earth and you have 3 days to stop it. nevermind being physically or cosmologically realistic that’s not important right now but Moon’s Haunted. not normal moon evil moon. it’s all the work of this like chaos deity or w/e named majora who’s working through this little imp kid known as skull kid bc of the haunted mask he’s wearing. how do you stop the moon from falling? easy. awaken four giants and get them to literally hold up the moon. push that thang back into the sky. did i mention it’s freaky and scary btw. not normal moon.

btw there’s a clock at the bottom of your screen perpetually ticking and at the start of each day you hear a bell tolling which is fun. it’s where these memes come from!

here’s the thing though. you cannot possibly realistically do all of this in 3 days. not unless you’re a hacker or speedrunner who’s built different. so what can you do? well as a matter of fact you can play a magic song on a magic instrument that resets time to the beginning of the 3-day cycle. and you can do so anytime! so yay you can just reset infinitely!!

except that comes with a price. only certain parts of your progress get saved through your time-meddling. you lose most things- money, common items, dungeon quest progress, npc questline progress- when you reset time. if you’ve completed a dungeon or earned a mask (collectibles which you put on to unlock special abilities) those remain in the new timeline but other than that a reset is a reset. so you have to be careful you’ve seen a quest all the way through before going back through time. if you find yourself running short on time but you aren’t done with something you’re either going to have to scrap that precious progress and play the song and try again orrrr let the moon fall and game over lol. so it’s really like. your time is simultaneously infinite and limited.

^uh oh sisters!

you can help the people around you, all of whom have rich inner lives and great characters (in reference to both the main quests and the many incredible side quests which this game is known for), and you may get to keep the fruits of your labor from each endeavor (the magic masks you get, or weapon upgrades, or like. the giants being awakened), but then you reset time and their problems come right back to them. and you know that there’s nothing you can do for them because you simply do not have enough time to do all of this in 72 hours so one way or another you have to abandon almost everyone. you get all the material progress you need but in terms of the underlying story you just have to move on through life with the knowledge of all that suffering…

oh and did i mention the part where the moon is falling??? yeah that’s like. on top of the other personal problems people already have, some of which are related to skull kid’s other mischief and some of which aren’t. the moon. it is always hanging above you

yeah people around town aren’t ignorant of that. some people panic. others are in denial. some people are convinced that if they just do this and that it’ll all be fine. there’s a somewhat political aspect to the arguments in clock town (the heart of the game’s map) where some people are insisting they’re in danger and the mayor needs to order an evacuation and some people saying hey shut up don’t be silly! are you really gonna distract us from our super special carnival we’re about to host? you’re just trying to control people with your conspiracy theory! it feels a lot like a sociopolitical commentary on how different people react to crises. panic, acceptance, denial, trying to take control, drinking away your sorrows, embracing it, still holding onto hope, etc

but by day 3 nobody is denying it anymore. there’s just pure dread. not even evacuation is gonna save you because let’s be real the entire planet is done for. straight up it is the end of the world and there’s nothing anyone can do. you can’t fight the moon. the giants are the only hope and link is gonna fix everything but it’s not like the people of termina know that. so like the apocalyptic, despair-filled atmosphere is heavy. masterpiece of storytelling tbh

a few more things to mention:

-most of your masks are just optional quality of life upgrades or stuff for one very specific sidequest or just a trophy etc. but the main mechanics of the game involve transforming into the other races of hyrule- aka you can become a little tree guy, a fish guy, and a rock guy, by equipping the proper mask. as a matter of fact you start the game by having skull kid mug you and then like curse you into becoming the tree guy so you get to have a body dysmorphia moment for the entirety of the first 3-day cycle before you can break the curse and change freely. oh but fun fact about those masks. yeah those are inhibited by the souls of real actual people of those races who died tragically and their loved ones don’t know they’re dead and they’re convinced you are them. yeah.

oh btw if you get all the masks you can trade them in at the end to unlock a new transformation mask (implying you’re channeling some new mystery spirit. oh boy) called the fierce deity mask and it’s insanely powerful and makes short work of the final boss and we know nothing of the fierce deity’s lore which is a little scary. yippee!!!

-just in general both games (this is strictly speaking the second of a duology) very much have the recurring juxtaposition of childhood vs adulthood and the traumas of both. the plot of the first game involves being suddenly aged from 10 to 17 (you’re put to sleep for 7 years instead of being oh idk trained or something) and you just have to adjust to life as a child in an adult’s body. (and they’re like ‘wow cool congrats on being a grownup! :D’ as if that isn’t horrifying) then at the end just as you’re getting used to it you’re forcibly returned to being a child and now you’re an adult (kind of) in a child’s body. as a child you’re belittled and as an adult you have people making demands of you that you aren’t ready for and you’re both and neither. but now you’re definitively a child and get to have your childhood back right? yeah no. there’s no going back home anymore after everything that has happened. also one of your last remaining friends just left and now you’re trying to find her desperately. that’s the context going into majora’s mask.

-skull kid himself makes me sad because he’s not even evil he’s being controlled by majora. he is mischievous absolutely and it’s still partially his fault of course but the real him would never do all this. he ultimately just wanted friends and attention and fun and it manifested itself in a bad way (kinda reminds me of ventus in khux with about like 20% more culpability…). you get to be his friend afterward plus his two little fairy friends so yay! gotta say goodbye though.

-the two fairies are a brother sister duo. the sister (tatl) gets stuck as your companion bc she took the time to stay back and bully you extra hard at the beginning of the game and accidentally got separated from the others lol. by the time you catch up to them she wants to stay with you anyway. her brother (tael) stays with skull kid but like he isn’t evil he provides valuable intel to you but he’s just loyal to his friend. anyway tatl warms up to you which is nice and i adore her… but of course you have to say goodbye to her too :(

^child link and tatl the fairy (tatl and tael together sound like ‘tattletale’ referencing the theme of childishness)

^skull kid (wearing majora’s mask) and tael the fairy

so in short to summarize the vibes:

what if you were a terrified lonely child experiencing layers upon layers of dysmorphia and trauma searching for your last friend and a giant moon with a face was about to fall and crush the earth and you alone were the only person who can save everyone by reliving the same three days over and over again, racing against the clock each time, making new friends and solving problems only to have to toss most of it down the drain with each reset, witnessing the fear and dread around you, feeling the weight of the world on you… just. man. lemme share some music too

. x this is the clock town theme. bright and cheery on day one, kind of hollow on day two (it rains that day), by day three it sounds frantic with an ominous undertone. denial and panic etc

x this is the theme that plays between midnight and 6am on the last day (fourth day i guess? the cycle starts at 6am on the first day so the last 6 hours before the dawn of death are technically a fourth day). at this point there is no denial in the world and this track plays everywhere in the world at that time. the world is ending. this is such a masterpiece of a somber track i found the best version i could that included the clock tower bells

x theme that plays when you finally summon all four giants to epically stop the moon after heaven knows how many cycles. no more smug skull kid no more despair it’s time!! baby!!!!!!

x this is the song of healing, another magic song that helps undo corruption in various forms throughout the game (it’s taught to you by a shady weird fellow known only as the happy mask salesman. love him.) it’s such a beautiful track that really kind of symbolizes the heart of this game- yeah it’s dark and scary and chaotic but at its core it’s about healing and hope, recovering from trauma, learning to live again… link manages to do it!!! he saves the world! and while he doesn’t stay in clock town he has a good time with his friends while he’s there. he gets to breathe for a bit. not every problem can be fixed but there is a new tomorrow nonetheless. acknowledge the hurt and work through it. gorgeous

have i said enough words yet. (watch someone) play majora’s mask please

[xaeethebaee]

baji nsfw hcs? I love urs they’re so funny 😭💗

MINORS! DNI! 18+ FOLKS ONLY!

Thank you so much for being my very first request! I'll try my absolute best to not disappoint, Anon Love!

What's it like to date Baji Keisuke? This Headcanon obviously will contain some NSFW material, fluff, and a little bit of angst.

Warnings: Mean Dom Baji, subreader, very mild blood play, nonconsensual video sharing, and a very subtle hint at sadism

A/n: I know there are a million of these, so hopefully this gives a different take. Also please keep in mind that this is strictly referring to ADULT KEISUKE BAJI!

Let's start with the fluffy parts of your relationship with him!

He’s not very affectionate at first as the most you'll get out of him is hand-holding and maybe brief hugs here and there

He does show other ways of showing his affection for you like randomly kissing your forehead, biting your hand as he holds it, and calling you a cute pet name - Kitten (though it's not always used in a cute way)

He also bites you to mark territory, so he is somewhat possessive

PLEASE play in his hair since your touches are gentle and relaxing to him. It's also the best way to put him to sleep!

Just let him rest his head on your lap and he'll be dozing off in minutes!

It's extra special knowing you are the only person who he'll allow to touch his hair

Style it if you'd like too and he won't mind going to Toman meetings with that hairstyle because everyone knows not to tease him for it. It's also because it is one of his ways of showing everyone who he belongs to.

He does sometimes struggle with having a conversation with you because he does not want to frighten you. That means he tends to avoid talking about his gang-related activities though, it does not stop him from showing up at your place in need of some first aid.

He is the most vulnerable during those moments too. In fact, it is the only time he tells you how much he loves you

It goes without saying that Baji is VERY protective of you

You're never allowed to walk alone at night and go to unfamiliar places. He is either walking with you or he has Chifuyu or Kazutora to accompany you (I'm going to do a headcanon of how the rest of Toman and Baji's mom treats you as his gf in a different post since there is so much to talk about)

Circling back to the biting thing, you two get playful with each other. Wave your finger in his face and he will playfully bite at it.

Baji gives you enough time to move your finger however the times when he does bite it (thankfully not hard enough to hurt) he won't let go

Once you do free your finger from his teeth, he will present the most adorable pout. That moment makes Baji fall in love with you all over again when he sees you smile because of your cute moment with him

You two can keep doing that for over an hour and it still won't get boring

Here are a few not-so-fun aspects of being Baji's girlfriend

He. Wins. EVERY. SINGLE. ARGUMENT!

it does not matter what you two were arguing about, he wins every time because he gets so terrifying (mf has anger issues after all)

Baji can be demanding sometimes whether it is intentional or not.

he has a very bad habit of not saying 'please' or 'thank you' when he asks you to do something for him

prepare for random impulsive actions from him. Most of the time, it is funny but the few times when it is not is because someone got hurt

He's a thieving pyromaniac. Basically, he sometimes steals your things and burns them for no apparent reason.

Usually, he is perceptive enough to tell which of your items you no longer need or use but it is still a mild annoyance

On to what y'all really want to see: the NSFW material!

Remember the pet name, Kitten? There are times when he uses the pet name in a more predatory manner

when he is horny, he basically will see you as his prey that he can devour so he will typically use it before or during sex

it doesn't matter what time of day it is, Baji will send you dirty messages when he feels like it

Baji: send me a pic of ur tits

You: My day has been going well. Thanks for asking.

Baji: then I'll fuck u violently ❤

Baji definitely has a size kink

he knows he is not the tallest however he also knows that he exudes an intimidating aura. That aura makes you feel small (even if you're taller than him) He loves to see the effect his aura has on you. (cheeky bastard)

He ALWAYS initiates sex

You know when he is in the mood because he touches your thighs more. Also, sometimes he'll just blurt out: "I wanna fuck."

don't worry because Baji is typically in the mood when you are as well

MEAN DOM!

those backshots are RUTHLESS!

when in missionary, he does have his hand over your neck and he squeezes it (though you'll still be able to breathe normally)

Despite being a mean dom, Baji does prioritize your satisfaction, so he is a Mean Service Dom lol

he takes eating you out very seriously to the point where his hair is tied into a ponytail before he goes down

those tongue strokes get your legs shaking every time. Yes, he makes you squirt too but don't think that is going to make him stop

the guy LOVES to overstimulate you sometimes

Giving him head is messy because the dude has a very peculiar habit of bucking his hips so he goes deeper down your throat. He may be a slight sadist because he likes watching you choke harder on his length

Don't forget, he's still a BITER during sex too so expect those fangs going in the skin of your neck and shoulders. Sometimes, he draws blood but it is always an accident. He'll lick the blood off though

Baji can last a while during sex but once he cums, he's done (obviously he will make sure you are thoroughly satisfied too)

estimate between 30 minutes to an hour (including foreplay)

As rough as he is, he can also be just as gentle. Sometimes, he just needs slow and romantic love-making, and generally, that happens after you've been such a good partner to him

He does record part of your sessions (with your permission of course) and it is mostly when he is fucking you from behind

He will never share it with anyone (except for Mitsuya and don't ask why and you don't know about that 🥴)

he keeps the recording in his phone for 'self-service' reasons

His aftercare is getting better with time

at first, all you got was a half-assed swipe from a towel but now you're starting to get the princess treatment by being carried to the bathroom. Though he will forget you are bathing and he goes to sleep, so you're just left in the warm bath water waiting for Baji to help you out

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[I hope you Lovelies enjoyed. I really tried my best to bring a different take to Baji. Fun fact, (like so many people) I started watching Tokyo Revengers for Baji! Somehow, I ended up simping for Shinichiro of all people lol.]

[Requests are always open. My only thing is that I won't accept requests for any Non-Con/R scenes and scenarios.]

[shortnotsweet]

growing pains

It’s only been nine years. They’re not in their thirties yet—and won’t be for a while—but it’s worth noting that things are different. Maybe it’s them, maybe it’s the boardwalk, or maybe—well. Logan is a different person than when he was a high schooler. He’s less assured than he was. That could be it. Louise is almost certainly different than she was then, but even now she still hates his guts. Maybe some things don’t change after all.

Notes Transcription

Main Episode Outfit Variations

Louise would be into layering, I think. She’s multifaceted, practical, and resourceful. Harsh structure in conjunction with more layered pieces; tendency towards color blocking, but she keeps it sharp. She’d be into casual, pragmatic clothes. If not very structured, she has loose-fitting, draped fabrics like sweatshirts or heavy pants (cargo material, corduroy, denim?)—draped and bulked, but not baggy. Something easy to run and move in; sneakers or combat boots.

Not opposed to dresses. Keeps it compact, simple lines. No frills but does lean into triangle shapes or rectangular blocks. Color blocking => neutrals will take up negative space, highlight colors are accented.

Sticks to main colors (green and pink) for consistency, but relies on neutrals like beige, black, and brown. Less cool-toned than Tina, either spring or autumn coloring. Bright colors are muted with exception of a highlight, usually pink (hat or laces). Green varies from lime to olive to sage to forest, etc. whichever tone is appropriate.

Occasional purple or blue in reference to the snowball fight/sled episode with Logan (he was in blue, Louise was in purple). Louise could lean into purple (imposing, mysterious, feminine but still intimidating) for off-episodes. Not frequent, though; too similar to Tina’s color palette.

Hairstyle options include braids, pigtails, or just loose. I’m growing partial to braids; they feel utilitarian, almost boyish, useful. Could emulate the bunny ears under the cap.

Beanie vs. Baseball Cap. I like the beanie, but to me it lends to this aspect of laziness? Not the worst, but i like the structure and sharpness of the baseball cap. Also obscures the eyes occasionally, or could be worn backwards.

Timeline + Basis

Loosely, 9 years post-canon timeline (ambiguous). Louise is 18, Logan is 25. The age gap is too big for them to feasibly be in high school together, so the second storyboard shot by the lockers is him visiting the high school for some errand (maybe Cynthia needs him to deliver something, maybe he’s got a younger sibling by now?), Louise passes by him in the hallway and doesn’t move to accommodate him (almost slams into his shoulder) and he almost looks back at her but continues on. He recognizes her when he visits the diner, which he later frequents because it’s one of the closest places in town that has good food that’s affordable and keeps him out of the house.

That’s one of the reasons, anyway. He isn’t conscious of it, although Gene picks up on it early on an often gloats to either Louise or Logan, both of whom are baffled or irritated at first. Linda is overly supportive of the idea to the point of humiliation, Bob doesn’t want to think about it and refuses to see it, and Tina writes extremely detailed romance novel drafts about it.

Logan becomes ‘aware’ in the following year, then feels really gross about it and avoids the diner for months until confronted (member of the family is up for debate). Realistically, nothing ‘tangible’ happens between them for three years (kiss? Weird face touch? Jealous outburst? Freudian slip? Something fun, idk [Louise: 22, Logan 29]).

I think Louise regresses at this point, and tries to distance herself like that episode of iCarly when Sam realizes she’s in love with Freddy and literally institutionalizes herself in a mental ward. Very much LALALALALALALALALA I can’t hear you, that didn’t happen. Logan is not feeling great at this point. Heart-to-heart with Bob snaps her out of it.

One more year of slow burn, actual relationship starts (Louise: 23, Logan 30).

Logan gets married, eventually, in his early thirties. Gene is an unintentional omnipresent narrator.

Additional Notes

Keep Logan in primary colors (mostly red or blue), but keep him out of dark neutrals/monotones (no black or charcoal gray), because it’s too heavy of a countermeasure against Louise’s color blocking—too unbalanced.

Decent height difference, although it varies depending on Louise’s shoes (sneakers or platform boots, she’s usually in sneakers in the restaurant). She’s right over his shoulder (?)

Concept comparison of them both around the ages 14-16 are for comparison only. Their ages do not coincide.

Occasional pet names, always mockingly derogatory.

Montage shots of her leaning over the counter while they talk. He used to sit in the booth seats but eventually began sitting at the counter instead. No reason. It means he can talk to her more easily and bother her with less effort.

They’re the kind of couple who publicly argues over the pronunciation of ‘egg’ type beat. Bickering keeps it exciting for them, but they make it a point to apologize in any serious disagreements, usually by the end of the episode. Similar difficulty in admitting when they’re wrong, often attempt to compromise by sharing/taking on blame in some equal capacity. Sometimes this is healthy, sometimes it’s more de-facto.

Mother-in-law beef goes crazy

[granulesofsand]

Hi, I was wondering if you have resources or examples of what system mapping is/looks like? My therapist mentioned it and I don't really understand what that ... looks like. And also can't find any real resources on it

System mapping refers to a lot of record keeping, more so than most people think of when they hear about it. The most common route for this exercise is a visual aid, often done on blank printer paper or with a computer application that allows for shapes with text in them.

Some goals for system mapping can be seeing how system members

are related (who knows who, how they interact with one another, how they define their connections)

came into the system (who split from who, when they showed up, what happened to get them)

fit into the collective (who’s similar or different, how roles make sense, where triggers chain together)

exist in space (how close to one another they are, where things are in the internal world, how visualized barriers come into play)

are themselves (which labels they use, which things they like and dislike, how they exist as one being and a member of a group)

Here are some examples of maps for each of these things

I did these taking only a few minutes each, and they’re simplified versions of real maps we’ve done in the past. Maps should be thought-provoking, a dumped box of ideas you connect on the page. Sometimes it takes hours (or days, but that’s usually an avoidance problem).

We’re working on one right now that shows when different color codes came into play for us. Our system is huge, so this is a broader project that doesn’t address individual members or subgroups. We took a poster paper and some colorful pens, made some notes at the top, and are drawing a garden with a central tree and some flowers for pieces that don’t make sense as a branching out. We worked on it several hours straight, redid it twice, and it’s still not done.

Our largest system map is a wall of post-its hanging on for dear life, with different color notes and ink for different purposes. We have a whole legend of symbols and would probably be using pins and yarn if we had a cork board. That one is everything; people and places, subgroups and relationships, programming and trauma, all of it.

If you(&)’re looking for resources, I have like two links I know I can find right now. Mostly this is a community topic, and you can watch people make maps on video sites like YouTube or TikTok. You’re less likely to find academic material about system mapping unless you’re looking for discussion about treatment or plain case studies, and I dislike contextualizing the exercise like they do.

I like the first link because they’re creative with it, which is great for visual aids. They also remind you that mapping isn’t for everymany/body, and that it’s okay not to do it or not include everyone.

The second isn’t specific to mapping, but has a bullet list I liked from another site that was more commercial.

A third one I thought about including but didn’t had some good reasons for mapping for integration (helping each other notice they’re connected, that there are reasons the system works like it does), but was more clinical.

Actually, I feel bad explaining it and not showing it, so you(&) choose if that sounds okay to you.

There are many larger articles which include aspects of system mapping, but reading them requires a lot of sifting and determining what is real to you(&) before you can make use of most of what’s written. It can help form opinions, and it will also send some cascading. If you look into the academic side, remember to look into the community side, too. You need both, just maybe not as early as mapping the system for the first time.

Poster paper is system mapping. Sand trays are system mapping. Roll calls are system mapping. Community meetings are system mapping. System mapping is getting to know your(&) system. You can’t really do it wrong, but I hope you got some ideas of where to start.

[tenebriskukris]

An Exhumation Of Hikaru Kamiki's Character Intermission II: An Eclectic Assortment Of Thoughts And Ruminations

Spoilers for the entirety of Oshi No Ko below.

These are some various thoughts about Hikaru that don’t quite fit with the pacing of this essay but I found important enough to include here for various reasons.

I’ve often seen hints of people using the songs from the anime as a foundation to interpret Hikaru’s character—which might as well be putting the horse before the cart. It’s the same reasoning to why I heavily dislike 45510 being used to justify Nino’s character being used to misdirect the readers during that interval where she was the red herring antagonist of the series. 

If this material was so necessary to understand important facets of the character, then why wasn’t it included in the manga itself rather than in a side story or in an adaptation? Why didn’t the narrative take the time to organically flesh out a character of some importance if they were going to make said character an important piece in the manga?  If one has to rely on side material to fully flesh out a character and tell a coherent story then more often than not said story will fall flat in certain aspects simply because not all the fans of said story are going to go out of their way to read the side material.

On that note, the songs might be good materials to use as supporting evidence to interpret his character, but using them as the lens and main focus to interpret a character which the narrative has already painted so clearly as little more than an antagonistic force responsible for so much of the series’ conflict simply reeks of bad reading comprehension and a willful disbelief of the events of canon. One simply can’t interpret a character without accepting all the facts about him and the sheer fact is that Hikaru was a murderer—one can rage against how his character ended up but to deny that he did commit those atrocities goes against the entire point of his character in the first place!

One of the other things I’d like to touch on is an interpretation that I’ve seen floating around online a couple of times that I find laughable but found the time to talk about here. It’s one that places Hikaru as some sort of godlike figure or possessed by some supernatural entity throughout the series. Funnily enough, it is one that I put some stock in as a joke when I used to believe that the series could conjure up some good writing and give some payoff to the little mythological references it posed. 

It is also an interpretation that is completely divorced from most aspects of logical reasoning and fundamentally misunderstands Hikaru’s character.

The interpretation, from what I remember of it, goes something like this. Due to the fact that Ruby calls herself the embodiment of Amaterasu in Chapter 3 and the fact that Crow Girl describes those who reincarnate as gods—ergo Aqua and Ruby—that would mythologically place Aqua as X. After that, it’s a hop skip and a jump away from getting to the interpretation that Ai is actually an embodiment of Izanami and Hikaru as an embodiment of Izanagi since from actual Japanese mythology, Amaterasu is a child of Izanami and Izanagi. If I’m wrong about any part of how the interpretation goes, then that’s on me for not wanting my braincells to commit seppuku reading a bunch of slop that’s somehow of an even lower quality than the last few chapters of the series. In any case, I’m relatively certain that’s how the story goes. Maybe they’re calling Hikaru another god now, I don’t know and it doesn’t really matter because the foundation behind it is just as rotten as the last few chapters of the series.

I don’t think I need to enumerate all the reasons behind it for those without sufficient reading comprehension but I’ll do so anyway. While Ruby did claim to be the incarnation of Amaterasu in Chapter 3, similar associations simply aren’t seen in Aqua, let alone for Ai or Hikaru in a clear manner throughout the manga. There is no real hint that Ai or Hikaru were divinely blessed or cursed within the bounds of canon a way that would indicate that it was due to any supernatural creature nor that their existence is even relevant to them beyond their own relationship with Aqua and Ruby, two characters that we know that Crow Girl has been watching over. It’s little more than using the series’ small mythological references and stringing them together to create some sort of warped narrative without acknowledging any of the logical facts presented by the series.

Now let’s talk about some more topics that don’t require me to bemoan about reading comprehension for the nth time. I was posed this question by some of the people that have heard me bemoan about this bitch of a series and I think it’d be pertinent to answer here. Do I think Hikaru was supposed to have been defused after their first confrontation and that the manga was pushing Nino as the final antagonist of the series? I dislike engaging in this sort of speculation but that’s the entire point of this entire section so I’ll indulge in said speculation.

The truth is I simply don’t care about either scenario. Whether Hikaru or Nino was going to be the final antagonist after Hikaru’s confrontation with Aqua doesn’t matter because in both cases it would simply be a badly executed mess. We already know where Hikaru went with the antagonist title. A very shoddily written confrontation between the protagonist and our antagonist. Nino would be worse, even, because so much of her character is locked behind a fucking SIDE STORY that the narrative didn’t even have the decency to show us on screen. Not to mention if Aqua was already aware of Nino’s instability that would’ve been an easy capture and turn in and then we’d simply have no conflict if Hikaru was to turn himself into the police. Of course, these are all hypotheticals. I’m under no delusions that the alternative scenario would be better written than the slop we got for the final chapters of the series.

What does Hikaru even do as an antagonist? He is mysterious for 2/3rds of the series before unveiling his sad and tragic backstory and then confronts Aqua twice before Aqua pushes him off a cliff in a double suicide. Sure, he’s affected things in the series but all of those are so indirect and happen before the protagonists are even born that it feels like he isn’t even focused as an antagonist in the series. He certainly doesn’t get the kind of screentime and character depth that other characters has. Kana Arima, the second most useless human being in this cast of characters within the story, has more screentime than the series’ main antagonist! You simply can’t get good payoff to a story when your main antagonist has less depth and screentime than a useless side character!

There is a question that I’ve seen some talk about and that I think I want to give my two cents on now that the story is pretty much finished with Hikaru. Was Ai wrong in asking Aqua to and save Hikaru? From what we’ve just seen during his final confrontation with Aqua—absolutely—but this isn’t a flaw on Ai’s part. Ai made that plea to Aqua under the assumption that Hikaru wasn’t, y’know, the reason that Ai died in the first place? Or that he manipulated Nino in order to get Ruby killed? Or, a murderer in general, really! I can’t fault Aqua for going against Ai’s wishes to save Hikaru here after he tried to kill Ruby like that. At a certain point you can only help someone who wishes to be helped, and from what we see from Hikaru’s current last words that man is definitely not someone who wants to repent for his sins.

Another question that’s been on my mind is the following: Does Hikaru engender sympathy as an antagonist? This is a question that is highly dependent on the reader and their viewpoint, but I’ll first bring up certain beats of his backstory again. Hikaru was a victim of the darkness of the industry that was trying to find solace with the one person he could connect to wholeheartedly before he was rejected by said person on a note that ripped up all of his trauma to the surface. Does that justify in any way any of the horrible things he did afterward? That much is up to the reader and how you interpret him.

My two cents on it: Absolutely not. It isn’t just that Hikaru murders people that makes any sympathy towards him plummet out the window much like the manga’s writing quality in its final few arcs—but the method of which he murders people. He doesn’t kill people like Ryouske or Nino, where they just went up to their victim and stabbed the shit out of them. No, he kills people indirectly, more often than not using proxies so he couldn’t be held accountable, as we’ve seen with Ryousuke and Nino in order to keep his hands clean. It’s a more unsettling form of murder compounded by a whole heap of manipulation that he performs so that Hikaru doesn’t have to stick his neck out. He has to consciously choose which actions will push a person who is unstable—since this is a trait that Hikaru can use to manipulate people easier—to murder another living person over a vast period of time. Ryosuke and Nino’s crimes were ones of passion and obsession. Hikaru’s crimes were a result of a calculated effort meant to push those who were unfortunate to murder. There’s no contest that I think the latter is much more insidious and deplorable.

To top it all off, his last words as he sinks to the ocean floor were that he wished he could kill his own daughter to feel closer to Ai! Hikaru may have had a sad backstory and motives for his crimes, but at the end of the day the man is still a murderer. No matter what kind of “noble” soul he might’ve had that the manga might have us believe—which is funny because there’s nothing about Hikaru as he is now nor before that would make me put the word “noble” to him—at the moment he’s nothing more than a deluded murderer that needs to be put down to save the people who can still be saved. Ai may have loved him as he was when he was younger, but the man who insidiously manipulated others to serve as tools of his demented needs is no longer that troubled boy that held onto Hoshino Ai like a lifeline. I doubt that Ai would look on him with any sympathy after everything he’d done—not to mention his actions to try and kill Ruby, one of his last links to Ai—and honestly, neither do I.  There are other CSA victims that don’t go out and murder people in an attempt to deal with their trauma and suffering. There are other people who have been completely destroyed after a bad breakup and don’t go out killing people in order to cope. There are people who’ve had their entire world evaporate into smoke after a single bad day after an uncountable number of bad days and never took other people’s lives into their own hands. Judging Hikaru based off who he was and what happened to him rather than who he is now and the choices he's made reduces him to his trauma and deprives him of his agency in the fact that he did make bad choices. There can be sympathy for the person he used to be—sympathy for the child swept away by the darkness of the industry and forced to suffer because of it—but also condemnation for the lives of the people that he has ruined in his attempts at reaching out to the only person who he’d ever truly loved after he’d callously pulled the strings in order to orchestrate her death.

>ACT III ACT II ==> >EPILOGUE ==>

[diltonsstrangescience]

So there’s this one comic where Dilton is absolutely FLIPPING OUT over how much Jughead annoys him. It’s really crazy. I’ve never seen him that emotional about ANYTHING. He looks like he’s going to murder someone. It’s one of my favorite comics.

I had wondered, before reading this, what a direct interaction between my two favorite characters would be like. This comic reveals the obvious fact that the two are polar opposites. The overachiever and the slacker. Of course they’d be at odds.

I’m going to completely overthink this comic, and write entirely too many paragraphs about my headcanons for it. You have been warned.

The first thing I glean from this comic is that Dilton has a serious control-freak streak. “Some people just aren’t happy unless everyone else is just the way they want ‘em to be.” I will Remember This Detail. I must collect characters’ flaws for future reference. Dilton gets pushy with other people when he thinks they should be different. It’s not enough for him to follow a strict set of rules, everyone else should too, or it irritates him to the point of cartoonish fury. (If anyone thinks they’re above the desire to change others, try being the only person in a group project who does any work, and see if you’re still willing to live and let live. I can definitely relate to Dilt here, to some degree.)

The second takeaway is that I headcanon exactly what led to the ending panel where Dilton’s been converted to Jughead’s way of life, instead of the other way around. I want to make a comic about it. Dilton’s been harassing Jughead for days about how he should change every aspect of his lifestyle. Jug asks why his lifestyle is so bad, and Dilt again lists off the things Jug does that he thinks are wrong. Jug then sort of disproves these claims, not denying them, but denying that they’re problems.

Sure he sleeps in class a lot, but that’s because class can be boring (surely gifted student Dilton understands this?). Jughead still gets mostly good grades, so he must be doing something right. He pays attention when he needs to. And maybe Dilton thinks his clothes are stupid, but who cares what he chooses to wear? How is that Dilton’s problem? And as far as “cluttering the landscape” by sleeping at the park, and eating a ton at the Chocklit Shoppe—seriously? He’s just existing in public places, doing completely legitimate things to do in those places. He’s minding his own business. Gluttony and sloth aren’t crimes unless they actually affect someone else’s life. And these actions shouldn’t be. So why are they affecting Dilton so much?

There are plenty of other reckless teenagers to try to reform, ones with way worse actions and way worse grades. So why Jughead? What makes him specifically the object of Dilton’s fury? Is it because he gets away with it all? Is it because—look, I’m gonna skip to my point. Dilton’s so bothered by Jughead specifically because he’s jealous of him.

He’s jealous that Jughead sleeps through boring classes because he already understands the material—Dilt is also sick of sitting through repetitive or easy lessons, but he wants to keep up appearances as the “responsible smart kid,” so he has to look alert even when he feels his time is being wasted. Dilton is jealous that Jughead finds it so easy to relax, napping in plain view of any passerby—Dilton cares too much about how other people see him, and he’s terribly afraid of appearing lazy or wasting time, and anyway he’s always too anxious to relax properly. Dilton is even sort of jealous of Jughead’s unabashed gluttony, because it displays a lack of shame that Dilton finds unattainable. Jughead doesn’t worry if the things he likes are “good” or “bad”, he just does what he wants. And it almost always works out for him.

To put the situation simply, Jughead is like the kid who speed-writes his essay the class period before it’s due, and still somehow gets an A. To someone who spent a week researching and revising theirs, this is infuriating. It feels so unfair. Sure, Jughead’s metaphorical A doesn’t do anything to remove Dilton’s A. Whether or not Jug succeeds, it doesn’t affect Dilton. Except it does, because it doesn’t feel fair that Dilton spends so much time anxious and planning and monitoring his behavior in an attempt to be perfect, and Jughead can just skate on through life without worry and be doing basically just as well. Because if there aren’t serious consequences for laziness and indulgence and nonchalance, then that means Dilton’s been putting himself through all this stress for nothing. If Dilton’s way of life is equivalent but less efficient, then it’s wrong, and Dilton is not used to being wrong about anything. It’s not something he handles well.

So yes, he’s flipping out. Because he needs Jughead’s actions to be objectively wrong and in need of correction. Or else he’s got to reevaluate pretty much everything about himself.

Probably Dilton’s not even aware that all of this stems from jealousy. He won’t admit it to himself. He feels far too self-righteous to examine his motivations. But at some point while he’s chasing Jughead all over Riverdale, he’s going to slip up and yell something that reveals basically everything I just wrote up there (but more concisely). He’s going to reveal (and realize for the first time) that this whole thing is just a desperate attempt to justify his own anxieties. After two weeks of this “reform Jughead” nonsense, they say something like:

J: [at the end of his rope] “I just don’t get why you hate me so much!”

D: [also at the end of his rope] “Hate you? I WISH I could BE you! It’s not fair!”

Jughead is completely shocked by this, and Dilton starts rambling about how hard he tries to be perfect and how he wishes he didn’t care what people thought of him and how Jughead can relax but he just can’t and how Jug has to be doing something wrong because if he’s not than Dilton’s wrong and he’s failed at life and that’s literally the worst thing that can happen and—

And Jughead immediately responds by saying that’s waaaay too much to worry about. (Because it really is. That doesn’t make it easy to get rid of though.) Jughead says okay, if you’re so jealous of me, then let’s flip the script. You stop trying to turn me into a teacher’s pet, and I’ll start teaching you how to enjoy life a little more. How to care less about what people think of you. How to worry less, and know which things are actually worth worrying about. How to be a little lazy and waste a little time without feeling like you’re committing some sort of crime. I am going to teach you to be like me, for the sake of your sanity. Because if that stressed mess you just said is what the inside of your head looks like all the time, there’s no way you can keep going like that for long without imploding. (Boy, he thinks, I always thought the brainiac students had the least worries out of anyone. If being on top makes you this paranoid, then don’t sign me up.)

So that’s how you get from point A to Dilton wearing a matching sweater and whoopee cap and asking for burgers. He’s learning through imitation. (Probably too strictly exact of an imitation, but those instruction-following instincts get drilled in deep.) The original joke is that he just spent too long around Jug and sort of absorbed his vibes, I guess, instead of the other way around. But my explanation makes more sense to me. It’s not like Dilt’s being brainwashed, he’s making the choice to act like this. And why? Because he really needs to be less hard on himself, and he finally understands that. Look at him at the start of the comic: wound up and melting down over this tiny little issue that’s not even his problem. Look at him at the end: relaxed, hanging out with his friend, going to do something purely recreational. Sure it’s funny that he’s dressed like Jughead’s mirror image, but when you think about it, this is clearly a good change for him (in all ways but the twinning outfit).

I really do think Jughead needs to impart his wisdom onto Dilton. Needs to teach him to calm down and do things not for a grade or an award or a reputation, but just for his own well-being. To go out to restaurants. To take naps in the park. To worry less about school. To exist in the world outside of his strict framework of self-imposed rules. He needs to teach Dilton to choose imperfection, and to be proud of it.

Because I need him to teach me that.

As always, this entire thing is 100% completely projecting.

[lallouette]

I saw The Outsiders musical last week and I’ve listened to the cast album a few times since it came out on Wednesday, and it’s so interesting how I’m still chewing on it. I’ve had the privilege of seeing a bunch of Broadway shows recently. One was just kind of bad and I forgot about it immediately. One was perfect, luminous, no notes, I gushed about it to everyone I know (Merry We Roll Along). This is the one I have the most thoughts about. It emotionally devastated me and a lot of aspects of it were really well done. Other aspects of it. . . I have thoughts about? Here are my not-entirely-sober, rambly thoughts about this show, beneath the cut bc this is gonna get long and no one asked for this (also spoiler warning just in case): 

-I was able to buy into it, but it took me some time to get there. The first little bit had me skeptical. By the time they were at the drive in (fourth song) I was like, okay, I’m definitely down with this. The book also has a lot of exposition up front, but it’s a LOT of exposition in the show.

-I was wondering how they were going to handle profanity, given that the book has a lot of “he swore” and the movie is very tame on that front. They say fuck multiple times, which is. Very much warranted given the situations that they’re in but it did surprise me a little!!! Also somebody makes a reference to eating pussy in like the second song which was WILD

-I think they did really well with the character of Johnny, acting, directing, and writing wise. My greatest fear is that they would Tiny Tim or Beth Littlewomen him, given that he is quite literally Too Good For This Sinful World. But I actually think he felt more like a fully realized person than in the movie. Sky-Lakota Lynch did a great job of looking haunted not just with his face but with his whole body. He was always pacing or fidgeting or something, and that nervous energy worked for me. And then of course he’s very, very still. And the contrast is very upsetting. Also they put him in sunrise colors 🥲

-Speaking of Johnny and Ponyboy, they’re very gay in this. I never really got that vibe in the book or movie (probably because I was 11 and didn’t even know I was gay yet), but here they’re close in a particular way that reminds me of certain friendships I had before I came out. Fantasizing about running away and making a home with your Extra Special Best Friend is the gayest thing I can possibly imagine. There’s a DIFFERENT song that I have dubbed 2 bros chilling in a hot tub because they are gazing into each other’s eyes singing about how they’ll never leave each other, HANDS CLASPED OVER THE KNIFE THAT JOHNNY USED TO KILL SOMEONE TO SAVE PONY, but they are sitting as far apart as physically possible. If the intent was to make it look less like they were going to kiss then they failed. 

-I went in knowing what they did with Dally’s death. And it works bc Dally in this is a completely different character. He feels much older, closer to Darry’s age, and he’s less loose-cannon-dangerous and more paternal toward Johnny and Pony. While book!Dally’s death is a final fuck-you to the world, this Dally is much more calculated about it. Thematically, do I think they should have changed the manner of his death? No. I think they should have engaged with the source material head-on, even if that scene is bound to take on different connotations now. Also Ponyboy has a monologue after Dally’s death that should have been cut down if not cut, make us sit with that 

-Joshua Boone, who plays Dally, is FANTASTIC. His performance of “Little Brother” (breakdown song after Johnny dies) is so much more intense than what’s on the cast album. I want to see him in les mis, which is high praise from me. Beautiful voice, wonderful ability to sustain notes while also sounding like his world has just been ripped out from under him. 

-they did cool stuff with lights and projections every time Ponyboy gets concussed! (Which is alarmingly often). The whole using lights/sound/projections to make the audience feel what the character is feeling reminded me of Curious Incident of the Dog In the Nighttime, as did the framing device at times. 

-the choreography/staging is amazing. The church fire! The rain! The whole thing taking place in the lot!!! I could have watched 10 more minutes of the rumble. 

-some of the lyrics are a little questionable. Love the book scenes! Love the music (I’m always here for a guitar-y folk ballad). But like. There is a scene where they dip into this almost recitative thing to describe how they just killed someone and I’m like ??? There’s so much dialogue in this musical, why is this not just dialogue. The songs are definitely strongest when they’re expressing inner thoughts/emotions instead of trying to advance plot. 

-The Stay Gold song WORKS. Musical theater is truly the best visual medium for letters bc you can have the person who wrote it come out and harmonize with the person reading it and UGH. Now that I’ve seen it staged it makes me so much more emotional 

-the way I’m tempted to go rush it so I can see it again. The brainworms are so real 

[somethinga7]

Sea monster speed

I think I’ve got a pretty good estimate of the swim speed of a sea monster from Luca

First thing I needed was some way of determining how fast they were able to go at a certain time. Thankfully Luca has fish that his family farm. While these fish themselves are not a real species, there is a very compelling substitute: The Gilt-Head Bream.

This fish is very common all throughout the Mediterranean, it eats plant material (like we see Luca’s fish do) and it lives around 0-30m deep and near seagrass beds (exactly where Luca lives) it also is quite popular to eat so that’d explain why Luca’s family farm them, and while not too important it also looks like Luca’s goat-fish

Now the problem with determining Luca’s speed is that most fish speeds are really only estimates. So finding speed references for the gilt-head bream was a pain in the ass but I found a study putting them at about 2.448km/h (the study didn’t have a massive sample so take that with a grain of salt)

That sounds slow, until you compare it to the average human, who is estimated to have a swim speed of 2.1km/h and the max speeds the best of the best can reach unassisted is about 8-10km/h

As for our sea monster max speed, I decided to compare to similarly shaped animals and the most similar in my opinion, is crocodiles.

I decided to be realistic and go with one of the slower ones, the saltwater crocodile, who has a max speed range of 24-29km/h. I also decided to lower the sea monster speed just because 1. They’re rounder so not as good at cutting through water and 2. They also don’t really need to go quite as fast since they’re not hunting.

So my estimations for a sea monster swim speed is anywhere between 2.448km/h to 20km/h.

Meaning even if he wasn’t really trying, say putting in as much effort as jogging, Luca would easily win the swimming aspect of the portorosso cup.

[empressawesomecoolness]

Doctor Who: The Ultimate Speedrun Marathon - 1996 TV Movie

Ok, I was warned this one was basically locked behind endless streaming paywalls or was otherwise just lost media. I was a little discouraged, so I was ready to just crack on with Series 1, but then I found the whole damn thing on YouTube. Lucky!

General Thoughts

Paul McGann was a ton of fun as the 8th Doctor! He was obviously having a ton of fun in the role, which I’m sure he must have been a fan of. He’s since retuned to the role in cameo appearances and such years later, so his infectious love of the material is apparent. I’m not sure if he was aware that his tenure as the Doctor would be relatively short, but he really makes the most of it. I also love his look! It’s a fun missing link from the campier looks of the OG Doctors into the more modern/tactical looks of the modern Doctors. I also liked the detail that his clothes were basically just a Halloween costume he stole after he woke up from his regeneration. Really clever.

Speaking of his regeneration, it was fun to see Sylvester McCoy return for an extended cameo as the 7th Doctor. I haven’t seen his Seasons yet, but I was familiar with him from The Hobbit and Sense8, so I really just like him as an actor. He’s also evidently having a lot to fun here, despite only about 20 minutes of screen time. As a newer fan, I’d say this is a great introduction to the fun of the Doctor’s personality and purpose in the modern era, as well as carrying the torch from the OGs.

I was really surprised by the setting being 1999 San Francisco, considering this is a pretty famously Anglo-centric show. It must have been a fun breath of fresh air at the time for fans, but I also enjoyed it as a new fan. It had a fun ‘90s neo-noir vibe to it that ‘90s England or some fictional future realm maybe couldn’t have gotten cross just right. (Also, idk if this is canonically the Doctor’s first visit to America, but I just found it funny that as soon as he steps out of the TARDIS onto American soil for the first time, he gets shot.)

Moving onto the Doctor’s companion this time around, we’ve got Daphne Ashbrook as Dr. Grace Holloway. She’s smart and resourceful and overall just really cool. An underrated companion, in my opinion. Her introduction in this movie is probably one of my favorite things about the franchise so far! She’s first referred to in the story as “Amazing Grace” by a fellow surgeon, followed by her having to rush into the 7th Doctor’s surgery straight from an opera house, all while still wearing her gown. Iconic.

Her relationship with the Doctor and her chemistry with Paul McGann is a ton of fun. They’re (for the most part) intellectually matched, so it’s fun to see the Doctor have a literal Dr to bounce off of. I do wish she had accepted the supernatural sci-fi truth of it all a bit sooner, cuz her having to come to terms with that takes up a good chunk of the runtime, but once she’s in the thick of it, she’s able to carry her weight. Also, idk if this is correct so feel free to correct me if I’m wrong, but Grace and the 8th Doctor appear to be the only Doctor/companion pair that are romantic with one another. idk how this aspect is liked among the fans, but I personally didn’t mind it. They’re quite cute together, so you really root for them.

Now for the villain. I know nothing of the Master so far, aside from the obvious that he’s an evil Time Lord who can also regenerate, albeit not as successfully, since the conflict of the movie is the Master trying to steal the Doctor’s lives after he uses up his own. I thought he was cool enough, and as a horror fan, his wormy-possession form reminded me a lot of Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday. I assume he’ll return as a big bad later on, but he’s a little one note here. He gets the job done, and Eric Roberts is obviously having a lot of fun chewing the evil scenery.

Favorite Moments

The Doctor’s little “these shoes fit perfectly!” was cute lol

Just one look at my blog will show anyone that I’m a massive Frankenstein fan, so the parallels drawn between the monster’s reanimation to the Doctor’s regeneration was super cool. Paul McGann also plays it really big! His “Who am I?!” dramatic moment after he comes back to life is classic monster-movie cool. Very Boris Karloff of him.

The one hospital orderly reacting to the 7th Doctor’s body disappearing by saying “You think he got up and went to a better HOSPITAL???” was so fucking funny oh my god

The look of the TARDIS’ interior appears to be carried over from how it looked for the 7th Doctor, but it fits the 8th Doctor so well. It’s like a gothic mansion, which just clicks so well with 8’s overall vibe.

The setting being at the direct turn of the millennium into Y2K was genius! It was sooo sooo cool I loved it

Paul McGann and Daphne Ashbrook are sexy as hell I need them so bad

Overall, Doctor Who 1996 is a fun and stylish entry! Highly recommend for those who haven’t seen it yet.

Now, that’s it for the 8th Doctor for the time being. Onto the modern era show, starting with Christopher Eccleston taking the reigns as #9.

[alyjojo]

Cancer Yearly Career & Finance Reading 🪖 2024

Preshuffle: The cards went straight to love, there’s an ex being shown coming back around for some. There was a lot of drama with this person, possible cheating, or talking to other people anyway, it’s possible you’re just stalking them since it’s been over with. Or they’re doing that to you. Especially if you have kids together. The message is that there has been no growth, don’t waste your time. Or the same cycle will repeat again. You could also be facing difficulties regarding children, mostly because of the other parent, or this is an issue with someone in your family.

Meditation: Gosh yours is the most relatable meditation I’ve ever seen, I rolled my eyes and laughed simultaneously. UGH. It was a long looong corridor to get to…your door? A door. Not sure if it was yours, it was just where you were going. You were like “this is going to take forever”, and that was true, but there was a skateboard 🛹 next to you so you could go faster. You didn’t know how to skateboard. You tried and failed several times. Back to walking. Getting impatient you’re like “I HATE THIS SHIT”, moaning and complaining, but you kept getting back on the skateboard. By the time we were close, you had a whole system, and had improved a lot since the beginning, it felt natural to you even. We get to the door. You open it, and it’s completely dark, turn a light bulb on just to see an empty utility closet with a sign on the wall that says “Congratulations! You learned how to skateboard!” Which you then picked up and chucked down the hall 😆

Main Energy: 4 Pentacles rev

There’s a lot of heavy ending energy, and the new beginning you see or will experience later in the year terrifies you. For many, this surrounds love, a toxic relationship or someone deceptive, going through the process of a split when all of your things are owned jointly. There’s an 8th House energy weighing over this heavily, I’m picking up on Cancer risings or someone with Aries/Libra nodes, Chiron, or difficult transits aspecting the 2nd/8th. A battle of independence that may not necessarily be wanted. Some Cancers are the instigators of deception, for crosswatchers. Either way, there are several endings over the course of the year, and will come to a natural conclusion by December - it’s finally over. This could be showing Pluto’s last return to Capricorn, wrapping up finally in November, and from there you’re free…unless you have those placements above. Difficult navigating this year, especially those with pain in the ass ex’s or mutually shared assets. 4 Pentacles rev shows a need to *release* all that you’ve held on to, which can refer to grudges and negative perceptions…around summer that’s true, but it’s also literal. Material possessions. People as possessions. Surrendering to a divine timeline (not your own) seems to be what’s at play this year for you, Timing is important, a lot of this isn’t free will, or it’s not within your control to fix, change, or do anything with. You just have to work with it and allow Spirit to do what they do when it’s time. Procrastination contradicts by saying “that doesn’t mean don’t do anything”, just do what you can. And then rest. Take care of yourself. Sometimes you can only handle day at a time, and that’s okay 💙

January: 9 Pentacles rev & Knight of Pentacles

Oracles: Versatility

Zodiac Signs: Virgo, Cancer, Gemini

Those of you ending deceptive relationships, this happened already, you’re not in the dark. Those in happy relationships can breathe 🧘🏻‍♀️ Some of you are the ones playing games, flirting or messing around with other people, and it’s like you’re not happy about it - you just do it? You don’t like to be alone, or some of you are single and dating people you’re not even really into, it’s just better than hanging out by yourself. Or you’re in a loveless connection where there’s no spark, no passion or fun, but you don’t want to end it. Don’t want to fix it or end it - fixing it takes two, that might not be on you if they’ve ended it, or don’t even try.

Regardless of whether love is involved or not (some do, some don’t, both are here), many of you seem to be more of a jack of all trades rather than committed to one thing. The King/Queen of the side hustle, with none of them really bringing in enough to sustain your lifestyle comfortably, but all of them being necessary to make ends meet. At the bottom, you’re bitter, you’re dissatisfied, whatever it is you’re doing currently you hate, but need. Some of you are in full survival mode 😕 You don’t like your options, even when you do look for something better. You could feel defeated, or you’ve been where you are a long time and there’s a sense of loyalty to this thing even if you hate it. You know they’re not paying you enough, but you can’t see any better. Or you wouldn’t accept better even if it were on the table. Procrastination fits where it fits and here it’s fitting with your dissatisfaction, but not doing anything about it. At least try.

February: 7 Swords & The Lovers

Oracles: Exaltation rev

Zodiac Signs: Gemini, Taurus Moon rev

Again there’s a Lover being shown, could be a Gemini or you have that in your chart. Either you’re sneaking around with someone newish because you’re sad about something else that’s ended, possibly a marriage or long term partnership, or a deceptive person has really broken your heart and you’re fixated on the pain right now. Moon in Taurus shows stability, material comforts, financial abundance & growth, but rev those things are missing and you could be beating yourself up with overindulgence. Overeating, or not eating, staying up late, blowing your money on indulgences and not giving af about responsibilities or anything beyond right now in this moment. Destructive Yolo. Or someone else may have a new person and it’s eating you alive, causing sleepless nights, to the point of this affecting your health. You may notice spontaneous gray hairs that weren’t there in the morning (stress can do that). Among other things. Physical symptoms manifested from upset emotions, stress, heartbreak & anxiety. Someone may have slept with the boss. Or wants to, or the boss is a creep and you know they’ll want that if you ask for more money. Some of you could be in sex work, and it’s not even paying the bills for all the ick you have to deal with. Be careful of STD’s or any health concerns related to that, if you’re involved with more than one, get checked out regularly. I see it, I gotta say it. Separately, you may be worried about the health of your father/grandfather, helping care for him. You may try to take care of others at a time you can’t really even care for yourself - but for you it’s a form of self care, feeling needed. You need someone to show up for you like you do others. Medical issues may be a drain on finances, especially for those splitting up, now your (or dads) insulin is all on you and you can barely afford the basics, that’s the example I got.

March: 5 Swords & 10 Swords

Oracles: Loss

Zodiac Signs: Gemini & Pisces Sun/Saturn

Similar energy as before. Mourning something, and that could be literal, if so my heart goes out to you. That won’t be for everyone. Some of you are worrying yourselves sick over an illness, could be yours, a parent/grandparent, someone you love. This could also be an ending to a relationship, or your ex’s new person, thinking about it is driving you insane but you can’t do much else, can’t help it. If they’re not talking to you, you’re very upset. Even if you were the one playing around, it may be betrayal on your own hands and you still feel sick over it now that the reality of loss is sinking in. The ex could be cruel, underhanded, saying and doing things they know are going to cut you to the core, because they’re vengeful. Or that’s you. Someone is acting kinda crazy over a Tower that’s occurred, and rather than being hurt they’re pissed off & out for revenge 💯

If you’ve had some sort of work done, surgery or…I’m getting a possible malpractice situation here, like a loved one (or you) being mishandled by doctors somehow, bad side effects, problems created fixing other problems, that’s specific for someone, it’s causing you a lot of grief and worry - or this is a note telling you that’s the problem not you, you’d know if that’s you. A medical problem could be worse if it’s been there but not taken care of for too long. Some of you could greatly benefit from counseling, mental health is highlighted as well, but be careful with what they try to give you, don’t be someone’s guinea pig. It’s normal to feel however you feel, and you shouldn’t have to do it alone. If you’re getting divorced, you could be losing a lot of money on that, or that’s what you’re so stressed about, whether you have already or it’s pending, you’re afraid they’re gonna “take you for all you have”, especially if deception is involved somehow. Or that could be your plan, if this is switched. This could also describe a job loss (because of medical leave?) you never saw coming, could be you or an ex asking for help even though the two of you are not on the best terms. It may be medicine that’s needed. The other person may be snide af about it, or “hang you out to dry” and refuse. There’s no good news I’m seeing at this time, The Hanged Man is showing a need of a perspective switch, seeing things from a higher viewpoint. Endings lead to new beginnings, though I’m not sure you’ll be ready to consider that this month. Not yet. Saturn Pisces can show illusions and confusion, your own emotions turning against you. The bottom of the deck shows you need self-care, healing, and rest 🙏

April: 3 Wands & The High Priestess

Oracles: Escape & Patience

Zodiac Signs: Aries, Virgo Jupiter, Heavy Pisces Sun/Mars

I’m not sure if this month is about Procrastination or Timing, maybe both, yours are the first oracles that seem to apply every month, not just here and there. This is a month of fantasy 😵‍💫 and delusion on some level, but you have to dream your dreams in order to make them a reality, or manifest them, and it looks like that’s what you’re doing. You want to jump ship, start over, something passionate, fun, gets your blood pumping, makes you feel alive again! That could be anything, but whatever it is can’t be impulsively done (or you just have too much sense for that), Patience opposes this Escape energy to keep one foot in reality while your head is in the clouds. Fantasizing about what life could be like. It’s a welcome distraction from the heaviness & hurt you’ve experienced. For some this may be about a lover, dreaming up a new ideal, and for others this is about glowing up and taking charge of your life, doing what you’ve always wanted to do. Timing is definitely at play, so is karma, you know it’s not the right time because of xyz (maybe you need more money), but the idea is there and the goals are maybe being formulated. Played with at least. Money is being extravagantly spent on anything you could want with no regard for future saving/needs, you could go on a shopping binge and not even know how you spent $500+. Or that’s what you’re dreaming of. Lots of little amusements to distract you from heavy emotions. You could listen to music more or find a new artist you adore, concert tickets is probably one of these indulgences, but it would be for a later date with this anticipation energy, probably clothes to match & beauty products with Queen of Wands at the bottom.

May: King of Wands & The Chariot rev

Oracles: Practicality

Zodiac Signs: Pisces, Gemini, Capricorn Moon

King of Wands can be another person, someone you’re romantically involved with. Or it’s you, ready to take the actions you’ve been dreaming up in your head, you’ve waited for this day, anticipated change, passion, a new beginning that really makes you feel good…and then you’re blocked. Or this person is. What’s blocked differs. Some may have literal car or transportation issues. For others it’s work, an emergency pops up, or someone just has an excuse…whatever it is, it’s rooted in logic and practicality, and it’s a karmic situation for someone. Maybe someone is supposed to go to a concert with you and they don’t, or can’t, you could go with someone else at the last minute. Or you have car trouble and meet someone the day you have to walk to a place to buy a tire, maybe they work there. It doesn’t have to be bad, Wheel of Fortune (timing) is showing that whatever isn’t working out - is for a reason, and whatever is showing up - there’s also a reason. In some way, you have no control over what’s going on, but Spirit has your back and they’re putting the pieces into place so that you may receive what you need *when* you need it. Or, when they know you need it.

If you have car problems, this could be a lover (or ex?) stepping up to help, if that is sort of person they are. Practical, humble, still good looking. You could feel devastated all over again because they’re being nice to you. Or the pride burns, because you need help, and they’re the ones still willing. Or switch that. One of you is loving and kind, the other is detached and straight to the point, not entertaining romance, but may be being nice. You could put yourself in a financial pickle 🥒 helping someone else out, or paying them back because you don’t want any handouts from someone that doesn’t care, hurt you, something like that. Or if someone’s giving you rides, you’re paying them, and it’s expensive. Your pride is wounded, someone’s is 🙏 Separately, someone may not show up to a court hearing and automatically lose, or there are consequences for not showing up to something…work possibly.

June: 9 Wands rev & The Hermit

Oracles: Acquisition & Empathy

Zodiac Signs: Gemini, Virgo, Taurus, Pisces Moon

Pisces & Gemini, over and over again. Always with some grounded earth energy to keep you planted. One side of you (Pisces) is reaching for the exit point, dreaming up an escape, lost in daydreams and procrastinating per the oracles. Another side of you (Gemini) is endlessly curious, probably going down a rabbit hole or two, actually putting some intellectual effort into these daydreams. How much does a plane ticket cost? Looking at houses in other areas. Applying for jobs even. It’s an equal mix of fantasy & intellectual curiosity, “what would happen if I just did this” and then you make some sort of effort. Maybe. That’s that energy Spirit wants you to be in, whether you’re going after the right things…probably not, there are more months in this tortured stuckish energy.

Some of you had a plan, last month you were blocked from actually doing that, and this month you give up altogether. It’s not meant to be or it would happen. Could be relating to travel or relocation. Whether you are or you’re not, you’re giving up and throwing in the towel with some situation that’s only driven you crazy, in order to find new love, new passions, loving yourself and doing what’s best for yourself 👏

July: The Star & Knight of Wands rev

Oracles: Inheritance & Drama

Zodiac Signs: Leo Mercury, Scorpio Saturn

You’ve had it with sadness! Good for you. The first half of the year is pretty rocky, here’s hoping things start changing in this cycle you’re going through - which is being said as “the drama is inherited”. That’s deep. A parent or family member may have gone through something eerily similar, and you’re a generational curse breaker, doing things in the ways they didn’t, putting yourself first and telling this situation to fk right off. Queen of Cups & Ace of Cups is what keeps repeating as your dreams, what you fantasize about, what you *really* want. A new beginning. Without betrayal, pain, or bs weighing you down and making you feel terrible. Without fkboy/girl personalities that hurt you. Without temporary jobs and people you can’t rely on.

You’re still in a wounded energy, and you’re still dreaming of what could be - now that you know what you *don’t* want anymore, that makes it a little easier. You dream of leaving everything behind, but there’s practical planning being put behind that now. Some of you are starting to actively look for better opportunities online, jobs with perks and insurance, something stable. You know you won’t feel stable until you go after stable, and while you’re healing you’re realizing that’s what you need. People, jobs, living situations, vehicles, dreams even. 8th House Scorpio energy is powerful here, this situation has been a catalyst for a major “death” and transformation for you - which is what this whole year is about, endings. You will come out of this a different person, and that’s a good thing 🌸 #growth It’s supposed to be this way, your birth chart or transits probably mirror this energy, though no one deserves betrayal, on some level you signed up for this as a catalyst to get where you need to go. You wouldn’t go the way you’re going if you weren’t hurt when you did it, you know? It’s like that. I’m genuinely not making light of any pain 🙏 It’s just that after pain, even during, we still have to do something…sitting in it will just drive you crazy, and repeated 9 Swords show you’ve already been to that level and are trying to pull yourself out of it. Some of you, with help, maybe even professional, and that’s totally normal, that’s why they exist. Whatever you’re ending right now, could seem dramatic or spontaneous, but it’s for your highest good, one step closer to your dreams. Those of you fighting legal battles with an ex may suddenly decide it’s over, you’re done, they win, just end this and take what you want. A loss of money or shared resources seems to be part of this whole karmic situation. If not, a loss of money (child support? Alimony? Paying damages idk) could be the only thing keeping you from just moving on with your life.

August: The Devil & 2 Wands rev

Oracles: Speculation

Zodiac Signs: Capricorn, Aries, Cancer Jupiter

What on earth are y’all going through? The Devil clarified by The Emperor - 9 Swords, The Devil again, and 9 Wands at the bottom. Control at the bottom of the oracle deck, Capricorn Jupiter. I’m like yeah I can see that…good lord. This is family centered. Either you’re dealing with an ex spouse that has you by the cojones when it comes to custody, location, shared resources, children generally, and money…for some of you it could be a father. And for others it’s the law/police. If it’s a boss, it’s because you have families and things wrapped up in your life, you can’t just leave a toxic situation even though it’s toxic. This could be a father that threatens inheritance all of the time, a boss that threatens cutting hours or has toxic behavior you have to put up with, an ex or co-parent that has full control of the finances and kids. 9 Swords shows you being terrified of this controlling situation, and all the little power games involved, you’re afraid to be hurt. More, again, worse. So you play it safe, not so much that you’re a part of this, but you’re codependent to some level to whatever this is, so you’re stuck having to navigate through it.

Outside of that darkness, some of you may be facing consequences for your actions, I heard property damage earlier, substance abuse could be in here, anything regarding the law…you may be unable to leave the area you’re in, stuck doing community service, a loss of finances has been shown several times already, making payments to the ex for who knows how long? If you didn’t have extra money before, you definitely don’t now, you’re up to your neck in anxiety trying to figure out how to navigate this situation without fking yourself. Some of you allow a parent to control you, inheritance would be the example but whether one exists or not, your parent could be a hardass or someone intimidating, and you’re not about to piss them off - so you play it safe. Speculation is about doing things for the family unit, that’s involved no matter what you’re dealing with. If you were trying to move across the world and just bail, you’re not because of family, The Emperor would be you making solid decisions and abiding by a set standard of behavior, being responsible and taking control of a toxic situation or pattern of behavior. Some of you may be quitting addictions, whether by choice or by force (law, forced rehab…is that a thing? It’s here 🤷🏻‍♀️). Or a parent could be holding inheritance over your head *unless* you get clean or act right…that makes more sense.

September: The Fool & 9 Swords

Oracles: Defense

Zodiac Signs: Gemini, Aries, Taurus Sun/Mars

Mars Taurus can show resistance, stubbornness, fighting back. I don’t think it’ll work (if it’s forced/law) but you’re not going down easy that’s for sure. Though a new beginning is here, and is what you’ll inevitably choose, this being forced on you in some way really pisses you off. How dare they, the audacity. You’re afraid to be judged or you don’t like how you’ve been judged, you could feel deeply resentful towards A judge or their decision where you’re concerned. At the bottom, it’s like you waited for someone to “get theirs” and that didn’t happen, you’re getting yours and upset about it. It’s not fair. Timing ⏱️ You’re not the one in control here, Spirit keeps pushing that point. Well you are, but actions have consequences and some things are karmic, you have to move along with how things are going and where they’re headed, even if you’re not always the one driving the boat.

Others of you are fighting back against opposition, oppression, and some level of toxicity in someone/a situation you’re involved in. Whatever this new beginning is, you’re just doing it, hit the green button, full speed ahead. Are you worried, yeah, 9 Swords has followed you around all year, it’s amazing you can even function with the no sleep or mental rest you’ve been not getting for an entire year. Some of you are rushing into a new beginning simply because you’re defensive - some cases are totally valid and some are just being stubborn, or using this thing as the reason, maybe it is, maybe it’s just the thing to get you to finally act - because whatever this is isn’t new. You’ve thought about it all year. You’re terrified, worried, up to your neck in constant anxiety, but you’re doing it - you’ve waited long enough. Some of you may be getting something medical done in regards to sleep, which is shown as lacking all year long, maybe you’re just finally fixing your sleep schedule, cutting out caffeine, or getting a sleep study done. Once you take this leap into a new beginning, you fear the same cycles, same lessons, same bs haunting you. If it’s done, let it be done 💯 Even you seem aware that your life has been moving in cycles and you’re sick and tired of *this* one. Pluto will be back in Capricorn around this time through November, and as it’s wrapping up - so are you. The cycle WILL be done, for good.

October: 5 Wands, 8 Pentacles rev & 6 Pentacles

Oracles: Caution

Zodiac Signs: Heavy Taurus, Virgo Sun/Mercury

Inner conflict, could be outer too and people around you are chaotic or bringing drama into your life (still). You’re pulling back your energy from them, or anyone who isn’t reciprocating in the same way as you, anyone who doesn’t give back the same love, care, friendship, consideration, whatever - that you are. Good for you. Some of you may be out of a job, but aren’t really looking either, Procrastination, and your family could get on your case about it, assuming they’re the ones covering whatever expenses. Same goes for if you’re paying child support or something, and not working enough or not making enough, dodging payments, you’re extremely stressed about the effects of this and how much you’re going to be fkd later. You may be heading back to a lawyer (Hierophant) for this reason. Same can be said for counseling, drug rehabilitation, any official person you’re supposed to be talking to, maybe you can’t afford it anymore. You lost your insurance or it ran out. There is generosity here with 6 Pentacles, and family, I assume they’re helping you out, but there is heavy Caution with that…you don’t want to be manipulated, trapped, bound, or hurt. You could accrue a lot of debt this month that’s going to be harder to deal with the longer it goes, but there be no urgency from you, and Spirit is like 😳 Whatever you’re putting off, you have to do it, as soon as you can. I’m hearing at least try, Spirit can’t really help unless you’re trying. If you’ve quit a job out of anger or like…fk you, I’m out, you’re definitely regretting it this month, and you’re needing to move away from this crippling anxiety and fear, taking practical and intentional action, because you have to. If you’ve lost a job, you may be getting closer with your family, which is a plus. Some of you are taking a long hiatus or in order to pay full attention to something like rehab, medical issues, etc., and if you’ve quit altogether then your family is covering the costs…obv. that’s for people with money here.

November: Wheel of Fortune & Strength

Oracles: Submission & Riches

Zodiac Signs: Capricorn Saturn & Pisces Sun/Venus

Submission seems like the natural next step, you’re surrendering to the process of whatever this is. Fate, karma, consequences, whatever. 7 Cups clarifies as confusion, daydreams, substances, clouded vision, again you’re seeing a better future for yourself - but what does that take? Bottom has 9 Swords again. You’re worried about how much work is going to have to be put into something, how much you’ve already invested, and feeling trapped or hurt again. It’s like you’re bound to your own hurt at this point, that’s what’s actually keeping you stuck now. If you have romantic options, it’s like you know you’re a sentimental bean that easily falls for people (Pisces Venus), so you refrain from getting involved with anyone, maybe several people. Because of wounds, hurt, pain, deep worries and fears, rumination, and trauma. Understandable. Riches are here as what you’re dreaming of *now*, not love (smells like progress 🌺), and it’s potentially here for you - if you rise above this toxic cycle, addiction, what’s holding you back. Work for it, and Saturn will bless your efforts, it’s hard work and it’s intimidating, but you can definitely get there, or this wouldn’t be what came out. Being submissive is watching the chance pass you by, which some sort of addiction or substance may be involved in directing up until now.

December: 2 Pentacles

Oracles: Harmony

Zodiac Signs: Heavy Capricorn & Libra

Choosing peace, you can’t do this anymore. Pluto will have returned to Aquarius and while you’re cleaning up the last remnants of this decade+ of heavy opposition in however it’s affected you, it 👏 is 👏 a 👏 new 👏 day 👏 You’re still stressed to death about what comes next, this should be your card of the year fr. 12 months and 9 Swords has been at the bottom of almost every single one of them. You realize this has to stop, mental anguish, you’re gaining the clarity you need to head towards your new beginning - Ace of Swords and Ace of Cups. 4 Pentacles rev being the actual card of the year (throw 9 Swords on it too), shows RELEASE. Some things you can’t just let go of, but you also can’t stay in this record loop playing over and over and over again, keeping you up, making you sick, you literally never leave this energy all year. You have to 💯 Aim for clarity, talk to people, talk to counselors, find new things that make you happy, even if it’s learning a new language, a new show or podcast, create little routines around these things that bring you joy. Peace of mind. Calm. Prioritize that and protect Harmony within your life. This may be something you’ve suffered with a long time and are finally seeing someone about it, your’re getting the answers clarity you need. Could also be meeting someone new that changes things for you, romantically, or if not romantic then you share a passion or hobby, you get along really well with this person. If you’ve left a job, you’re coming to peace with having done so, either because you desperately need/ed a break, they were unfair, many reasons. You still worry though, and still need to attempt (at least) moving on to the new - which is also here for you as opportunities. Endings and new beginnings, it’s a lovely omen for 2025 and what that may bring, you genuinely have a fresh start, and have come a long way. Sending you guys a lot of love. You deserve whatever happiness is coming towards you…once you work for it (that’s repeated). Effort is a large point being made, Spirit can’t just bring it out if the sky and hand it to you, or they won’t, but they want to bless you so they’re like “just try”.

Risings are being highlighted strongly with this reading, and Gemini energy, Jupiter moving to your 12th in June will bring a lot of things to light in your own inner psyche, ultimately positive but can be difficult. Hidden enemies & secrets come to light, along with your own deep wounds and self-undoing (constant anxiety 💯). Spirit is supporting you, not against you, you’ve got an angel in your corner ready to jump in and help as soon as you make an effort somewhere healthy, positive - so long as it’s the right way for you. You’ll be led to what’s right, Wheel of Fortune (Jupiter), and you won’t even have to question it. Have faith and trust the process when you actually don’t have any control, and if you know you could do more - then do more.

[aeoki]

Machina - Test World: Chapter 6

Location: ES Dressing Room Characters: Mika, Shuu, Natsume & Tsumugi

TL Note:

For those who don’t know, this refers to Natsume.

Mika: (Hmm… What went wrong?)

(Does Oshi-san really not like digital art?)

(He’s very particular about the materials and the story created from a piece of art, so maybe mine seemed shallow in comparison ‘cause I just focused on the design.)

(But the design is one part of art too… I would’ve been happy if he complimented me on that aspect, though.)

Ngh~... But at the end of the day, I’m still lackin’ in skill.

I couldn’t make somethin’ Oshi-san was satisfied with – that’s the main point.

…I’ve decided. I’ll commit to makin’ somethin’ Oshi-san will be happy with next! 

I’ve always seen digital art as a novelty, but from now on, it’s a contest of expression that only exists in the digital world!

Just wait, Oshi-san~ I’ll definitely make you hum in approval!

[ Location: ES Hallway ]

Shuu: …………

(I left the dressing room in a hurry after something unexpected happened.)

(Kagehira… He didn’t come running after me.)

(Normally, he would have a change of expression and come chasing after me, but it seems he’s grown quite attached to “SSVRS”.)

Hmph. Good grief, just who on Earth introduced that to Kagehira…? It must have been the Boy’s[*] suggestion.

I should send him a few complaints. I don’t know what he’s planning but I had an awful time in “SSVRS” last time as well.

[ Location: NewDi Conference Room ]

Tsumugi: ♪~♪~ *Sweeping away the dust with a broom*

Natsume: ………… *Scooping up the dust with a dustpan*

Tsumugi: Natsume-kun, you’re a lifesaver for helping with the big cleanup~♪

I was so busy at the end of the year and I didn’t have any time for it, but I wanted to do a big cleanup before my first day back at work ♪

Natsume: Do you even know what the first day back at work meaNS?

Tsumugi: Yes. It’s the official first day for staff and idols to start working.

Natsume: ThEN, what are we doiNG?

Tsumugi: This is cleaning outside of work.

We suddenly had some funds after “SS” but NewDi tends to be quite frugal, so I had intended on cleaning as a volunteer ♪

Natsume: I can’t quite understaND. My labour cost is quite expensive, you knOW?

WeLL, I suppose we had a lot of work like “Phantom Airship” before our official first day baCK. Nothing would change even if I said something at this poiNT.

But I’m only helping out because I want Sora to have some holiday time and not because I’m doing it for yOU, Senpai. Got thAT?

Tsumugi: Yes, of course ♪ You’re a huge help, Natsume-kun ♪

Shuu: …Boy!

Tsumugi: ……? Oh, that sounds like…

Shuu: Do you have a minute? We need to talk!

Natsume: What’s wroNG, Shuu Nii-san? You seem angRY.

If this shaggy thing over here did something to upset yOU, then I’ll apologiSE.

Tsumugi: Ehh!? I-It’s my fault!?

Natsume: If anyone were to incur the wrath of their superioRS, it would be yOU, Senpai. You’re indifferent to your daily actioNS.

ActualLY, I heard you went overseas right after “SS” finishED, but I see you’re back alreaDY.

Shuu: Yeah. I’m back on a small matter.

Putting that aside, it seems Kagehira entered “SSVRS” while was in Europe. I’m looking for the person who introduced that to him.

Someone has forced Kagehira to be a part of a shady business using virtual currency… If I said that, would you realise how serious that sounds?

Tsumugi: A shady business…?

Shuu: That’s right. They’re making Kagehira create digital art and sell it through shady means.

They’re labelling it as virtual currency but it just sounds to me as if they’re trying to cover it up with flowery words. It’s anything far from simple.

I felt this way towards “L$” as well, but I cannot trust a currency that a certain group of humans have created…

If they’re making Kagehira determine their worth, then I must stop them at all costs.

Natsume: HmM. I did hear there was a server created within “SSVRS” where virtual currency is usED, but to think Mika-kun is involvED…

But if that’s the caSE, Shuu Nii-san, that sounds as if Mika-kun was the one who did it of his own volitiON.

I also have connections to the game company that developED “SSVRS”.

From my point of viEW, there’s nothing off about thEM – they’re a respectable compaNY.

They’re cautious about introducing virtual currenCY and they’ve only permitted the continued use of it within the “Test WorLD”.

No personnel from a dishonest company is involved and forcing Mika-kun to create thinGS.

Isn’t he just enjoying the process of making art and getting some monEY?

Either that or he’s enjoying a new form of art by the name of digital aR–

Shuu: I don’t need to hear that. If someone from the game company is involved, then introduce them to me. Now!

Did you think you could talk me out of it with that behaviour of yours…!?

Natsume: …………

Tsumugi: Umm~ I apologise for interrupting.

Sora-kun has been looking for test players for the “Test World”, so maybe Mika-kun was also recruited that way?

Shuu: Is that true, Boy?

Natsume: Ⱦħⱥⱦ ⱳⱥꞩ ᵾꞥꞥēȼēꞩꞩⱥɍɏ…

*Sigh* I had a feeling the more I talkED, the less you’d be convincED, Shuu Nii-san.

I thought I couldn’t let an angry Shuu Nii-san meet Sora bUT… Senpai had a slip of the tongue right awAY.

Tsumugi: Ohh, I see how it is. Sorry.

Natsume: It’s fiNE. I can’t lie to Shuu Nii-san, either wAY.

I think the one who introduced “SSVRS” to Mika-kun wAS Sora. But Sora didn’t tell him about the virtual currency out of ill intentioNS.

He’s simply innocent and loves new technoloGY, so he didn’t think about the dangeRS. That’s all there is to iT.

Let’s meet up with Sora and ask how Mika-kun got so inTO “SSVRS”.

It wouldn’t be too late to hear what he has to say before condemning “SSVRS” along with the virtual currenCY.

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[open-hearth-rpg]

Sample Characters: Great RPG Mechanics #RPGMechanics: Week Nine

I guess this week I’m going to be focusing on meta-aspects. Not exactly mechanics, but mechanics-adjacent. I talked about the beauty of Glossary Indexes yesterday. Today I want to cover another utility tool. And it's one I have come around on. 

Early on, I’d say pre-2000s, I thought pre-gen and sample characters were a waste of space in books. Mostly these were characters presented as walk-throughs for character building. For example Harvey Walters appeared as the example investigator for multiple editions of Call of Cthulhu. He was not only used to demonstrate the process of making a character, but he appeared in most of the examples of play, usually illustrating how hapless he was. 

And just as most of my bad-attitudes and dumb ideas about play came out of arrogance and unearned confidence, I decided that because I could not imagine utility for me these things couldn’t be useful for anyone else. I got over that. At least in this case. 

I eventually realized sample characters help illustrate the play possibilities of a game, they show the expected range of stats & skill numbers, and they make it easier to pick up and play. The second edition of Eclipse Phase does this particularly well– with a wide range of pre-gens with different sets tuned to the different campaign styles. And these aren’t relegated to the back. They’re early on, designed to give both the players and the GM a sense of what the world’s like. 

I run a lot of short series to try out games– two shots and four shots usually. I have a ton of ttrpgs I want to play– arising from purchasing too many bundles, getting review copies, or having extra affiliate credit on DTRPG. A four or five shot, a monthly game, is an investment. On average that’s 18-20 hours committed to that game including creating the character keeper, reading rules, sketching out play, making a cheat sheet if needed, and running the game itself. That’s equal to bingeing several Netflix series. 

So games which make that easier: clear materials, interesting starting incidents, reference sheets, etc., go to the front of the line. The decision’s even tighter for running an online two-shot. That’s really equivalent to a substantial four-hour f2f con session. If I have to spend time having the players make up characters– even with the easiest system, that’s at least an hour lost from play. A game with sample characters cuts that down. I can point players to a pdf, let them spend time tweaking some details, sketch out the mechanics and get to playing.

Some game systems offer exceptions to this. PbtA and FitD games often offer quick approaches but the process of CC is as much play as anything. Doing these as a one or two shot often kills me because they players come up with great characters that I want to know more about. Another approach is in-play character creation. Fate as well as several Modiphius games offer this, notably Dune. You set a couple of things, but then pick most of your stats and talents during play in response to events. It can work, but it does put a heavier cognitive load on the players. Some lighter PbtA and FitD games can work with this approach.    

Quick Starts, a great innovation, are great for sample characters. They provide an easy way to access the content. They can also be tweaked in presentation to make them tighter and more focused on the scenario. But designers need to do is make sure everything referenced on the sample characters actually appears in the quick starts. A couple of times running these I’ve stumbled when players ask “what does X talent do?” only to find that information doesn’t appear in the materials anywhere. 

These sample characters don’t have to be in the core book, taking up valuable real estate. They’re often in intro adventures or quick starts mentioned above. But one of the easiest ways to do this is simple to offer a free or cheap collection of characters as a pdf. White Wolf did this for several of their lines; Star Trek Adventures has collections of famous characters from various series. These resources are especially good if you give a couple of formats (text only and complete sheet) and if you leave room for the players to shape and tweak names, genders, ethnicity, etc.

[ideal-girl]

Thanks for writing the responses as usual, but there’s a couple things I’d still like to read your thoughts on and I don’t get (i’d like you to edit* it into that response, not here.) When you have time away from when your busy with things like the moving out, of course, take your time. 

1) I still don’t get why Sam’s ex (and men in general) chose to do that particular action. How does it relate to “dominance” if they’re not going for a pregnancy fetish?

2) It was mentioned in the first question, would you like to see yet another AU version of Sam’s Story?3) “even if she didn't act on her intuition and leave him.“ I’m confused, Are you talking about “Another Side” here? Cause I was actually referring to the original “canon” (as to speak) where the man abandoned Sam after she revealed she was pregnant. Or were you talking about the original canon and you forgot to write a line like “in that other universe”. (For clarification, That question about Another Side was meant to  be the only one, all the other questions were about the original canon.) 

4) On the question on Sam’s “comfort” about intimacy with the man, Alongside the disingenuous factor, did Sam also have a problem with the physical side (the way she was “handled”)? How do you think Sam felt (like maybe herself) on the aftermath of every time of their intimacy, especially with receiving “what makes babies”? you mentioned something before on how the ex convinced Sam to not be really herself and out of her comfort zone for the sake of “love”. (Asking cause if I get to writing “Another Side 3” (working title), I may use your interpretations to add a layer of angst to that AU tale)

*this is weird but can you edit these responses to where the original questions were instead of at the end of the page. Cause I think it’s better to leave it on a lighthearted note with Sam and Mandy’s daughter catching them and getting shellshocked instead of these more downbeat ones. 

Now to unrelated fluff, for the upcoming Mandy story about Bloody Mary, some other aspects about the source material where Mary hails from will come to play. Now I don’t want you to get confused, but I don’t think you should either visit the websites nor browse the wiki for this, so I’m going to summarize who the bit players are:

The Storyteller- very simply she’s a mysterious old woman who poses as a kindly grandma type but actually has the power to send people into dark stories like a world where it’s civilization literally thrives on human blood for its harvest. Here’s a spot: https://vimeo.com/65763936

Body Collectors: They were alluded to in the portion of the Bloody Mary website where she killed that doctor who rejected her thesis. They originated in the HHN 2005 event where the Storyteller originated. They like to take dead and living bodies, and take away their limbs and body parts to keep them as props or “art pieces” (in 2005, they used the body parts to process them as either treasure or tools to make weapons for the evil civilization). 

And just to clear up on things, when I mean “oneshots” I mean they’re meant to be the “simple” ones where you don’t really have to give much thought to it, I really love and prefer hearing your deep analyses into these stories though so everything else is meant to be for that (basically the ones not oneshots). 

Thank you for reading these!

Nia 

I’m working on my answer to your questions and will make the relevant edits. 

A lot of time has passed; I’m really sorry about! You should haven’t to wait that much longer now. 

[jreynoldsward]

So, for a change, let's have a touch of spring in the office picture photo! This one is from the spring of 2020, when I discovered that--alas--my lovely lilacs were prone to having ants on them, which became a challenge for bringing them indoors to admire. Sigh. But that was a lovely year for lilacs...and you can see some of the writing books on my office shelf. One of my office bookshelves, anyway.

This ended up being a fairly busy and productive week. For once, a lot of stuff got crossed off on the to-do list. I was thrilled to see it, but...sigh. Most of the stuff that got accomplished had nothing to do with drafting, and everything to do with production, promotion, and community service work. No craft work got done; and the most writing was finishing off and uploading a chapter to the Kindle Vella project. I need to pick up the pace on the drafting side of things. On the other hand, this week's chapter was one of the difficult ones, because my characters decided that they wanted to be romantically involved. That provides a challenge because while they are formally married, the contract they signed requires them to negotiate intimate relationships, including whether they decide to reproduce or not. No, this is not near-future. This is far-future, in a somewhat puritanical world view where marital associations include contractual agreements between persons (sometimes of different species) who want the legal structures and protections of a marital agreement without the reproductive or intimate aspects. Everything is contractual in the Federation of Sentient Worlds. Doesn't mean there isn't room for love and intimacy, just that those get negotiated for the protection of all parties involved. That's one reason why Federation Cowboy is taking me longer to draft than I expected.

I'm also circling back to some breadcrumbs I dropped in earlier chapters which are actually somewhat relevant to the story. This book is becoming more complex than I first thought it would be. Which is a good thing, really.

Additionally, all the discussions about A.I. this week had me going over to some psychometric resources I know about (psychometrics is the study and creation of cognitive measurement) to see what that group of experts had to say. It's somewhat more nuanced and more precise than a number of the popular journals are saying, and I have much more confidence in psychometricians than I do in tech folks who don't necessarily understand the gritty details of cognition. Digging into those journal articles was a heavy slog, however, and made me realize that while I had to think a lot about it, I still possess a better understanding of what they're talking about than people who haven't worked adjacent to psychologists engaged in this study. I'm contemplating printing the articles out so that I can highlight, underline, and otherwise process the information in a form that works better for me (I simply don't do well with deep reading on electronics. Part of it is the need to refer back, which is more difficult, and the note-taking process is more challenging electronically. Just the way I process). I suspect that I might have material for a blog, at least, if not an article, and there may be material for more than one article or blog in this rabbit hole. So I plan to allocate some time to this work in the next week, just to see what the possibilities are.

I discovered that the books I have up on Ingram are also available through Bookshop, so I spent this week putting those pieces together. I now have a shop on Bookshop, where I'm coordinating my series books and getting them together.

This being the first week of the month, too, I had a bunch of first-of-the-month things to pull together. Appointments, Zoom hosting, and more.

And, on a personal note, I seem to be spending a LOT of time lately updating my underthings. Well, it has been a few years, and some things wear out. Hopefully that ends reasonably soon. Still haven't bought the new office chair because every time I look, they're either not suitable or else the reviews are horrific (I always always always look at the one star reviews first). I want a chair that either doesn't have arms or has arms that can be put up. That works best for me ergonomically. The absolute best chair--a rather expensive one, that I tried out at my son's and would absolutely work size-wise, has ARMS. That while can be moved, still have a section that comes attached to the bottom, and will force my mousing hand into a position which it won't like. SIGH.

Ah well. At least I seem to be getting stuff done. And promotion keeps happening.

Onward!