#and you’re actively hurting other people’s recovery with your content
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referencees · 8 months ago
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‘ED recovery’ influencers drive me fucking nuts. Like their content is basically only about their ED and their recovery but then 90% of their posts are just body checking.
Like posting photos of you posing in tight workout clothes at your daily workout, making sure everyone can see your thigh gap and your flat stomach does not seem like recovery to me.
Posting your no carb, no fat, neurotically ‘clean foods’ meals does not seem like recovery to me.
Constantly posting comparisons of your current body with your ‘ED’ body to show how ‘healthy’ you are (just as skinny but slightly more muscular) does not seem like recovery to me.
Like in all honesty I genuinely hope these girls are actually recovering and doing better. I’ve had an ED. It almost killed me. It’s something that haunts you for the rest of your life. But if your recovery content is actively triggering for people with ED’s I have a hard time seeing it as genuine recovery.
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pr0serpinaa · 2 years ago
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I say this as someone who has struggled with Anorexia - I hate the new “waifcore” aesthetic with my whole heart. It’s not a cutsey “waif” thing, it’s another name for proana bullshit. (I’m not talking about memes and discussions about recovery, just to be clear). I see so many Pinterest boards glamorizing eating disorders and addictions. And I get it. As a teenager I looked at proana stuff too. But you know what I didn’t do? Share these images with the rest of the world.
“I just do it to cope.” No. If you post and share Pro-ana images you are not “coping”. You are hurting other people. You want to look at pro-ana waifspo heroin chic aesthetic shit to cope? Fine. That is not healthy and certainly not a good coping mechanism, but at the end of the day that effects you and only you. You spread that shit around because you want more followers on instagram/tumblr/pinterest etc.? You are complicit in cultivating a culture that actively hurts people, including kids.
Anorexia does not make you look pretty and doll-like. It makes your hair fall out and become brittle. It makes your skin sallow and fucks up your digestive system. It makes it so that you are always in pain from something, whether it’s your stomach or a headache or muscles (atrophy) or your fucking bones. It makes you tired and dizzy all the time so you can barely think. It gives you wrinkles even if you are a teenager. And you can die from it - heart, lung, kidney failure, the list goes on but I’m not going to bore you. And it’s not a pretty, quick Lisbon-Sisters-esque death. Anorexia has the highest mortality rate of any psychological disorder. And if you don’t die, you can have health problems years down the road. And it takes forever to recover, if you’re lucky enough to. For me it’s been over a decade and I still sometimes struggle.
It’s not cute. It’s not ~aesthetic~, and it’s sure as fuck not “coping”. Stop sharing this shit where teens and kids and people who struggle with eating disorders can see it. I don’t care if you’re “coping” or trying to get more followers or whatever. You are directly hurting people.
I genuinely, genuinely hope that anyone who looks at/spreads pro-ana content gets help. I’ve been there. I know it’s easier said than done. But you need to realize it doesn’t make you beautiful or give you control. It takes your life away so that it becomes the only thing. You lose any type of control you think it gives you, especially if you are hospitalized (which you can forcibly be, even if you are an adult).
I know that it’s unlikely that anyone will listen to me or stop engaging in and spreading pro-eating disorder content, but I have been on tumblr a long time and have a fairly decent amount of followers so I hope it reaches someone.
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angry-geese · 3 years ago
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Nanami Kento x Reader
Warnings: sfw. pregnancy mention, death mention, minor injury mention. mild angst. jjk manga spoilers/shibuya arc spoilers
Summary: some pregnancy fluff with nanami
Word Count: 2.2k
jjk masterlist
Greys dot at his temples, and the sides of his beard. There's a permanent line between his eyebrows from scowling. Nanami always kept his face shaved in the past. Nowadays he hardly bothers shaving. You like it when he has a little bit of scruff, and he's often too tired to shave. His cheeks are far more gaunt. He lost a considerable amount of weight he never really gained back. You’ve been trying to get him to eat more. And it's working, but recovery isn't a short process. It was a long road that sometimes it feels like you take one step forward, only to take ten back.
He finds himself questioning if he'd rather wear a glass eye, or an eyepatch.
Nanami hardly sees the point in either. So the answer is neither. He rarely leaves his house, save for the rare times you drag him along to the grocery store, or down the street to the bakery. Even then, he wears his hat low on his head, keeping his eyes on the ground in a feeble attempt to make himself as small as possible.
Shibuya left scars on everyone who had the misfortune of being there, ones that never quite healed right. You were the same person; torn apart and put back together wrong. Age has not been kind to you, your wounds taking longer to heal, an ever-present ache in your bones. Past injuries have never quite healed, only laying dormant, waiting for the weather to sour so they can ache. He guesses he can consider himself lucky. He's alive. That's more than a lot of people can say.
But sometimes he thinks the real lucky ones were those who didn't survive.
Sometimes he thinks he's dead. In the twilight between sleep and his waking moments, he wonders if he actually made it. He wonders if he really survived, or if this is just some last ditch attempt by his brain to make sense of things.
He doesn't understand why you stay. He finds himself wondering why he bothers. Most days he doesn't see a point in continuing. But he doesn't want to leave you alone, reaching out to the empty space where he used to be.
For a long time he struggled to find purpose to all this. He wanted a reason, or at the very least answers. But he never would get them. It's unfair to say there’s an order to the universe. There's no reason why things happen the way they happen, they just do.
In the end he came to terms with it.
He remembers the glint in your eyes. A mischievous look- you were always trying to cause trouble. It's never really left. You were younger than him. Not by much. Two years. You were adamant he recommended you to become a grade one sorcerer. For months you pestered him, hounding him for that recommendation. As a Jujutsu High first-year, you looked up to him. When you got into trouble, you found yourself asking 'what would Nanami do?' And as time went on, you still did.
After months of pestering he eventually caved. You're nothing if not persistent. It was a little alarming at the time, and equally as irritating. But when you were finally a grade one sorcerer, he was there alongside you to celebrate.
At first glance, you two were far from compatible. The two of you couldn't be any more different. He was stoic and stern, and you were a known troublemaker. Your cursed technique worked well with his, and as a result, you went on many jobs together. As time went on you grew close.
And after years of working together, he finally realized he wanted more.
To everyone around you, your feelings were obvious. The two of you were hopeless. Between your stubbornness, and Nanami’s refusal to believe Gojo, neither of you wanted to be the first to confess. It was up to Gojo to help. Neither of you asked for his help, he took it upon himself. Little did he know, Nanami had a confession planned.
Nanami never got to have a proper confession. Gojo would spoil the surprise. Nanami was pissed, but your reaction was worth it. He doesn't think he’s ever seen you that happy.
Slowly things got better. Your more visible wounds healed and scarred. You went back to work. Nanami settled into domestic life better than he thought he would.
The transition wasn't the easiest. Settling down was far from an instantaneous change. He took on work around the house. For a short time you kept a ‘normal’ job. Even when you were younger, such work never suited you. Between the money you had saved up from your years as a sorcerer, and the money you got from odd jobs, you had enough to live comfortably. There was no need to work.
Slowly he started to look forward to getting up in the morning. Having a routine helped. It gave him a sense of normalcy.
He often finds himself unable to sleep. Nanami falls asleep late in the afternoon, and sleeps until either his phone, or a nightmare rouses him.
Today it's neither. He was a light sleeper before. Now even more-so. When he’s next to you, sleep comes to him easier. His arms find the swell of your belly, wrapping around it protectively. Your presence is a reminder that you’re still around, that you're not going anywhere. His shoulder aches. He finds sleep impossible. He’s too sore to move, but too sore to sleep. Even before everything, he found it easy to sleep on his couch, and hard to sleep in bed. You’d constantly pester him that sleeping on the couch wasn't good for his back. But that wouldn't stop you from staying there until you both inevitably fell asleep, and he carried you to bed.
It took you years to convince him to have one. He wanted to settle down and have children, but he couldn't be both a sorcerer and a parent. And neither could you. Shibuya only set things back. The world had to heal first. Things had to get better. The two of you had to heal before others could rely on you.
You weren't actively trying, but if it happened, it happened.
You've long since fallen asleep in the crook of his neck. He hardly left bed all day. Things were getting bad again. Sometimes months would go by where it seemed things were improving, only for them to take a nosedive. He’s still getting better, but recovery isn't a linear process. You didn't have anywhere to go that day, so you stayed right by his side. You took it upon yourself to make him feel better. Or at least bother him until he got out of bed. Much of your morning was spent watching movies on your phone, and stealing blankets from each other.
Retirement was nice. Granted, you retired rather young, but if the rest of your life was spent with him, you’d be content. He’s still the same man you fell in love with all those years ago. Aside from the occasional, safe-ish odd job, you were done with sorcery. Those days were past you.
He’s grown tired of staying still. Sometimes moving helps the aches. He never was the earliest riser before, but now he can hardly stay in bed past seven. Everything hurts. No matter when he goes to sleep, he’s usually up by 7:30, and you can count on him making coffee in the kitchen.
It's hardly past nine. The sun has completely set over the horizon. Stiffness has set into his limbs. He takes great care to not disturb your sleeping form, tucking the blankets back around you.
You nuzzle into the warm spot where he once was, a frown burned into your face. You never liked sleeping without him. Nightmares struck you frequently. Often you'd wake up from a dead sleep in a panic, calling out for him, convinced that this was some sick dream and he died years ago. He’d often wake up to you clinging to his arm, face buried in his shirt.
But he was always there.
You find it easier to fall asleep when it's light out. You don't like falling asleep in the dark. He makes sure to keep a light on in the hall. The power bill you could care less about. Nightmares came to you in the dark. Your logic is that, if there's no dark, you won't have them. To some extent it works.
It's a bit late for dinner, but he finds himself in the kitchen anyway. He wants udon, but the shop you normally go to would be closed at this hour. Their mushroom udon is the best. He’ll try to recreate it.
He sets some water on to boil, along with some frozen gyoza to thaw that you always insist on going to this one specific market in Tokyo for. Chicken and leek, with lots of ginger. Your favorite. You go through so much of the stuff that you have to get it in bulk, and freeze the extras. He thinks you’ll want tea too, so he sets the kettle on to boil.
He doesn't hear you walk in. Between the clanking of pots, and the whistling of the kettle, your soft footsteps go unheard. Nanami’s hearing was never quite the same. But he senses eyes on his back, and turns.
“I didn't mean to wake you, love.” He says.
“You didn't. I was having a hard time staying asleep anyway,” you say, “what’re you making?”
“Mushroom udon and gyoza,” he says, “it’s gonna be kind of a late dinner, but I thought it sounded good.”
“Smells good,” you say.
One of his hands finds your much smaller ones. Your fingers lace with his. His hands are warm, and calloused from years of using his weapon.
“Remind me to get more tea when I head into town tomorrow,” you say, “oh- and rice too. We were getting low the last time I checked. Do you want to go too?”
He nods. He makes a silent note to add those, along with laundry soap to the shopping list.
Before, he hated going into town. Strangers poked and prodded, and asked about his scars. It's gotten better as time goes on. If cravings struck you in the middle of the night, he would be up and ready to bring you something. Craving the mochi only sold by a specific shop in Tokyo? It doesn't matter if he had to take the train all the way to the city, he’d do it. Your arms wrap around his waist from behind. He’s a bit too tall for you to rest your head on his shoulder from behind. You have to stand on the tips of your toes to press a kiss to his cheek. He smells faintly of laundry soap, and shampoo. His stubble brushes against your lips. You always liked when he grew it out.
He pulls you so you stand in front of him, your back against his chest. His hands find the swell of your belly, wrapping around you protectively. Nanami plants a kiss on the top of your head. It's one of the few moments you feel truly normal. You’re no longer sorcerers, but a couple sharing a romantic moment, one building a life together.
He’s hardly allowed any distance between you two. Nanami acts like you’re made out of glass. He’s almost afraid to touch you. God forbid you try to lift something too heavy, or help out with the housework. He’s on you in an instant, trying to get you to rest. He’s a bit overbearing when it comes to things that aren't good for the baby. No alcohol, no caffeine, no overexerting yourself. You didn't miss alcohol all that much, but you really miss coffee. At times his presence can be suffocating. He means well, even if it gets on your nerves.
When the noodles are done, he gathers two bowls- part of a set given to you as a wedding gift. You only brought them out to use when your parents would visit. Much of the time they spent gathering dust. You always talked about using them more, but never got the opportunity to. He figures now is as good a time as ever. You set the table, setting out a few candles. He’d break out a bottle of sake if you could drink, but you just settle for tea.
"Retirement looks good on you," you say.
“It looks good on you too,” he says.
Conversation carries on while you eat. The topic falls onto mundane things that make his heart flutter only when you talk about them. You make plans to go shopping in the morning. You need groceries, and there’s a new shop opening up in town that you want to check out. When you’re done eating, you help him clean up. You clear the table while he gets the dishes.
He’s finally found his place. Not in jujutsu or human society. Not among sorcerers or regular people. His place is beside you.
And each day, he finds himself falling more hopelessly in love.
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letsasoiaftogether · 3 years ago
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Targaryen #14
Word count: 1,127
Warning: None
A/N: OKAYYYY so I had fun writing this, honestly! I also chose to write both King Aerys I and the Reader as being ace (or, that’s how i interpreted it/hinted at - it’s not directly stated, technically). I enjoyed interpreting Aerys I in such a way that it’s like the history books of asoiaf/the citadel exagerated his life/personality/marriage - kind of taking the whole every lie has a bit of truth in it that GRRM is good at writing into this series! I hope it came across that way and I hope you all enjoy it!
“They want you to...exchange me?” You couldn't decide whether to laugh or to be angry
The fact that the Small Council believed they had any right to tell Aerys what to do in his marriage - when he was content and despite not having kids had the line of succession figured out - was infuriating! But you were used to it. 
Still, you couldn't help but feel a little hurt. After all you were THE Queen. And a good one at that.
Your husband hummed, looking at you with a mixed look of awkwardness and exhaustion. The Small Council had been hounding him for months about the importance of having his own children. You knew first hand how much their constant insistence had taken a toll on the King.
Your marriage to Aerys, son to Daeron the Good and Myriah Martell, had always been one of gossip. From your wedding night where you sat playing card games and reading to each other to the ten years of marriage never consummated. 
The rumors spanned from Aerys not finding you attractive enough to Aerys having more of a fondness for books and prophecies much like Baelor the Blessed where people kept waiting for him to fall over dead having starved himself to try and be reborn as a dragon.
The rumors weren’t kind to you either. They whispered that Aerys had tried to produce heirs but that you were barren; others claimed it was you who refused to consummate finding Aerys unsatisfactory and that either a) you were still a maid who prayed to the gods every day and night for that to change, or b) you were sleeping around with various men and women of court.
Both of you had been ridiculed for so long that sometimes you had your handmaidens tell you the latest rumors so you could have entertainment.
“The absolute disrespect. And for Bloodraven to go along with it…” At least, you knew that Brynden Rivers only brought it up to ensure the security and continuation of House Targaryen and not for personal gain as most other members of the Small Council were after.
“I shut them down, promptly.” Aerys informed you softly, moving over to the desk in the corner of the bed chambers, “And demanded any such talks cease. You’re my wife and queen. That’s the end of it.”
Smiling gently, you moved over to him and placed a kiss on his forehead. “It won't stop them, but at least they'll leave you be.” It would hurt you, but they would never see it.
Aerys took your hand and squeezed gently.
Nothing else needed to be said.
You were friends. Best friends. You had been companions long before you married and after the vows were spoken, you became fierce allies and verbal champions of each other against any and all rumors surrounding your union.
No one could understand your arrangement. Times were quite that progressive yet. But that was alright. As long as the two of you understood, that was all that mattered.
In a small sort of way...that’s how you liked things to be.
Mysterious.
“My uncle informed me that history will not remember me fondly if I don’t do things differently; if i don't take a bigger, more active role in ruling.” Aerys sighed some time later after the two of you had settled down for dinner and a game of cyvasse.
You took your turn and then said, “You aren’t cruel like Maegor. You haven't started a civil war. You haven't ignited the Faith Militant. You’ve ruled through a sickness that devastated our kingdoms, and you have done what you could with an economy still in recovery.” you shook your head and reached for your glass of wine, “History will remember you however it wishes to. It doesn't matter what you do or what you don't do.”
History over all was recorded by the Citadel, and despite being learned men who were meant to be neutral and help the realm as a whole, most maesters were just as corrupt as the lords of the country.
“I am but a placeholder for the dynasty. I can't say I care too much.” Aerys admitted, flushing slightly at his own admittance. “I can live with how history will look upon me. I told my uncle this. But I cannot bear to think of how cruel it might be toward you.”
His words were met with a fond little smile from you. He had always worried so much about how people spoke to you and treated you. He was a true friend; something that was so rare in King’s Landing and most of Westeros.
“You don't need to worry for me, love. I assure you that I am stronger than I appear.”
Your husband watched you for a long moment before nodding, slightly, and asking, “Do you ever regret it?” at your confused look he added, “Not having children of our own.”
“No,” you said immediately with a firm shake of your head.
Having children had never been something you wanted. You didn’t want to be a mother, although you had no problem being an aunt, and you certainly didn't want to go through the process of birthing them. And that wasn’t even touching on the fact that you were absolutely repulsed by the idea of sex in general
“I am content with this partnership remaining only us. I don’t need a child to be happy. Children do not bring happiness and I am absolutely appalled that society puts so much stake into them. Of course, I understand carrying on the family name. But you have brothers, nieces, and nephews. There is no reason for either of us to be uncomfortable when the others are more than comfortable doing that job.”
The relief on Aerys face was very evident even without him sighing and whispering a soft thank you. 
“Aerys,” you reached across the table and brushed a strand of hair out of his face, “I’m not going to change my mind on this. Please, don’t concern yourself with it. We are happy. It’s not our problem if others don’t understand that.”
What does it matter if we don't have children or we never share a bed? We are but footnotes in the family dynasty. History will remember us but barely. And we’re okay with that. 
We are only alive for a little while, and thank the gods we were born with the advantage of being able to live our lives mostly the way we wish.
Your heart ached for those in the world who were forced into marriages and into bed and into roles that they had no control over.
Perhaps one day, the world will be a better place.
Perhaps...one day...
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glowinggator · 4 years ago
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Boundaries
Request: Hi!! I was wondering if i could get some headcanons for the boys with a s/o who like,,, is trying to stay no contact with an abusive/toxic parent,,, and thinking about going back to them? Just generally doubting whatever they went through/that they have a right to feel the way they do? Ive been struggling a lot and rly need some comfort :( but if its not something you’re comfy with or anything, thats cool too!!!
[A/N: To the person who requested this... I love you! You're doing great, and I hope you know that you are Loved. It's incredible that you were able to cut them out of your life: that takes a lot of courage and strength! I've been dealing with something similar on my end, so I certainly know how you feel. Much love, anon. You don't need them: don't let them drag you back in. You’re perfect without them: there’s no need to feel guilty over what THEY did. Muah!] 
Pairing: Raphael/Reader (Established), Leonardo/Reader (Established), Donatello/Reader (Established), Michelangelo/Reader (Established) (ALL SEPARATE - NONPOLY) 
Content Warnings: Mentions of abusive parents, although nothing is graphically described. Comfort headcanons, for the most part.
Word Count: 1546
Raphael
He notices that you aren’t feeling well super quickly. He’s a great listener, and he’ll let you vent for as long as you need; however, he’s not going to let you overthink the situation too much. If you’re really genuinely doubting how abusive they were to begin with, he’ll probably cut you off in the kindest way possible. It’s good to talk about your feelings, but you can’t let yourself drown in them, you know? 
You did so, so good setting your boundaries last time! And he’s really proud of you for that. But unfortunately, toxic people will always try and weasel their way back in. You have to stay strong. He’ll be there for you every step of the way, too. They hurt you deeply, and you don’t need to apologize for their actions.
If they’re starting to harass you, he’ll offer to respond in your place if you don’t feel like you’re able to at the moment. There’s no shame in blocking their number or email, either. 
He’ll offer to take you out somewhere to get your mind off of the situation for a little while. When he’s feeling stressed he likes to work out, but that might not be for everyone. But if you wanna kick the shit out of a punching bag… I’m just saying, it’s very stress relieving. He’s also down to get some pizza too. Anything to take your mind off of it! 
Oxymoronic. If you had to describe how you feel right now, inside your body, that would be the perfect word to describe the sensation. You feel weightless, almost outside of your body; yet, that sinking pit in your stomach tethers you to the earth. You feel like you’re going to vomit, replaying the words from your parent’s most recent voicemail in your head. It’s been… a while, hasn’t it? You glance nervously as your phone, checking the time before switching it on. You stare at your lock screen for a moment, trying to find the courage to unlock it, before setting it down with a gentle thud against the hardwood table. You don’t know what to do anymore. 
“Hey,” Raph whispers. You jump, startled by the sudden noise before forcing a smile. 
“Are you okay?” he asks. You nod. 
“Are you sure? It looks like something’s really bothering you.” 
“Yeah,” you mutter, “I’m okay. Just life, you know?” 
“Yeah, I get that,” he sits down next to you slowly, smiling gently, “But life is hard sometimes. Do you wanna talk about it?” 
You smile gently, if not a little sadly, and shake your head a little. He always knows what to say. “Well, it’s just…” you pause, “I don’t know. It’s my parents again. They’re trying to get back in contact with me again, and I just… it’s hard. Like, what if they changed, you know? I thought I set my boundary really well, so if they’re trying to talk to me, it kind of makes me think that they changed. Or maybe I overreacted, or-”
“Honey, I love you, but I’m gonna have to stop you right there,” he interjects, “You were super clear that you didn’t want contact anymore the first time, so the fact that they’re still trying to weasel their way back in? It shows that they haven’t changed… at all. They’re abusive now, and they were back then too. If they weren’t, you wouldn’t have cut them off in the first place, right?” 
You hum and lean into his side. He pulls you towards him gently, cocooning you in his strong arms. You close your eyes and sigh. “Yeah,” you whisper, “that makes sense. I just… I don’t know why they keep doing this, I hate it. I don’t wanna have to deal with this anymore. It’s like every few months they pull this. I don’t know why they just can’t let go.” You wrap your arms as far as you can around his middle, leaning into his embrace as deeply as you can. 
“I know, hun. But you know what?” 
“Hm?”
“The fact that you don’t understand why they do what they do… it just shows that you’ll never be like them. You’re strong, you’re sweet, and you’re kind. You don’t want to hurt others, and you’ll go to any lengths to help people,” He runs his hand along your back soothingly before trailing up your arm and squeezing it gently,  “I wish that they weren’t doing this to you, because you deserve so, so much better than that. But I love you, okay? You’re gonna get through this.” 
Leonardo 
He’s super observant, and he picks up on your distress quickly. He’s a good listener, and he’ll let you talk for as long as you need. He’s more of the ‘get it all’ out type when it comes to venting. He’ll hold you close and let you cry, if that’s what you need. 
Setting boundaries is hard, and he’s really happy that you managed to cut them off in the first place! Assessing your own needs and coming to terms with the abuse that they put you through is really important, and he’s really impressed that you were able to do that. But people never talk about what comes after: keeping those people out of your life. If you’re ever doubting your decision, he’ll be right by your side to back you up. Toxic people will try their best to manipulate you, and he’s not gonna stand by idly and let them guilt you into a relationship with them. They’re the only ones who can control their actions. You have a right to feel the way you do! 
He’ll offer to respond to them via email or phone call, if you feel like you need to respond to them. He’ll also offer to beta read your emails if you need to restate your boundaries to them. Sometimes just reading them outloud helps you feel a little bit better, a little bit more secure in your choice. 
He definitely ups the self-care and fun outings in your daily life. Dealing with abusive parents is so stressful, and honestly? The LEAST you could do for yourself is kick back with some ice cream. 
Donatello 
He notices that you’re a little off, but he can’t quite figure out why. Headache? Didn’t sleep well? He’s the most likely to wait for you to bring it up. He’ll ask if you’re feeling okay, but for the most part, the ball is in your court. If your distress persists for more than a day or two, though, he’s not above cornering you and asking what’s up. 
He’s really ticked that they’re trying to get back into your life after you clearly cut them out. Like, seriously? You were so clear about it the first time, and this just goes to show that they haven’t changed at all. You’re in the right here: They don’t deserve you. He’ll 100% back you up regarding your experiences, and he’s not gonna let you feel guilty over what THEY put you through. He’s a great person to vent to, honestly. All feelings of doubt, that maybe things weren’t as bad as you thought, practically disappear when you talk to him. He’s so supportive of you and your recovery. 
Look it might not be the smartest choice, but if you wanna let him email them or something, he totally will. You think he’d make some incredible, eloquent, heartfelt speech that tricks them out of ever trying to talk to you again but… he doesn’t do that. He’s not above snapping at them. But he just loves you a lot, and he really fucking hates all of the shit that your parent put you through. You’re such a good person, and you’ve done such an incredible job recovering! He just wants you to be happy. 
It’s self care time. He takes more time out of the day to do little things for you. He knows that this isn’t an issue that can be solved in a day, so he just wants to do all that he can to make every day a little more bearable. If he can get you to smile, he’s succeeded. 
Michelangelo 
He’s observant, although not as much as Leo. Luckily, he’s not above just straight-up asking what’s bothering you. Communication is key, after all. He’s an awesome listener, and he’ll throw in his own comments here and there. Like yeah, no, babe they were really shitty to you, you totally have the right to feel the way that you do! 
He’s really proud of you for setting your boundaries the first time! Cutting toxic people out of your life is really, really difficult. But unfortunately, manipulators will always try and come back into your life. That’s what they do, and it hurts so much, but that’s just… what they do. You don’t have to take that laying down though! Every time they try and push you to let them back in… you have to push them away twice as hard. Like, you’re so strong! And you deserve the absolute best things that this world has to offer. 
Probably the only one who won’t offer to write to them for you. This is something that you have to do yourself, if you really want to be content with the situation. Although if they start harassing you, he’ll 100% call them/answer the phone to tell them to stop fucking calling. 
Ever try making Uum Ali? He hasn’t! Let’s try it! He’s gonna go all out with fun activities and sweet self care ideas. Anything to see that smile again.
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serenawitchwriter · 4 years ago
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BNHA fusion (minor cast/Deku)
IzuYami
Goth™
Emo™
DRAMATIC™
fluffy feathers
monologues
advanced shadow control and counting dark shadow, nine spirits that can come out of them
constantly playing with their cloak
swish swish
will cry if you’re nice to them
incredibly creative
good at drawing
fears their own power and is incredibly cautious as a result
writes poetry and short stories
a gentle soul
broods alone, looks kinda stupid
tends to get caught up in his own dramatics and forgets the world around him
gets along surprising well with the Aoyama
seems to be having fun
MomoDeku
insecure
perfect
that frustrating friend who doesn’t believe you when you say they’e perfect
literally the smartest person you’ll ever meet
like Nedzu level smarts
probably has tea with Principal Nedzu
uses big words that you have no chance of knowing
talks to themselvesX2
THE MOST ATTRACTIVE PERSON
long dark curly hair and freckles with an Elvin face
Rube Goldberg plans and strategies that run too smoothly to be real
looks yandere when they get serious or angry but isn’t one
QUEEN
so gentle most of the time
does crafts when anxious
the crafts get progressively more absurd the more anxious they are
Jirou walked in and found them working a loom. they could have just pulled tapestry out of their body fully formed but instead they made a loom and actually wove it
gives gifts and crafts to all their friends
made action figures of all their classmates
the prettiest smile
has a crush on Todoroki
KouDeku
soft
still selectively mute
still literally a disney princess, constantly surrounded by animals
animalistic. izuku’s feral energy, and kouda socializing more with animals than people adds up to a person who moves and sometimes acts like an animal.
is particularly predatory when defending loved ones, children, and animals.
doesn’t need to speak to show emotions. is incredibly expressive
still has a rock shaped head, but is covered in a soft short green fur over his entire body. people are going to compare them to the Grinch or the moss monster in Creepshow. they don’t deserve that
baby with big green eyes
cries easily
deceptively clever
strong and fast. will tackle/pounce on you like a wild animal and you don’t stand a chance
draws a lot, particularly still life’s, scenery, and animals
surprisingly easy to make angry, they have a strong moral code and will get mad if you go against it
besties with the mutant types
old soul
probably knits to wind down at the end of the day.
master of giving dirty or sarcastic looks. again they don’t have to speak to express what they’re thinking. this is particularly funny with Bakugou because they’ll give him a ‘you’re an idiot’ look and Bakugou will yell at them to say it again even though they’ve said nothing
subtly manipulative. which is impressive given their muteness
probably has a predator animal companion. i want to say a tiger or a bear. bear would fit more aesthetically.
also has a ferret companion, named Lucky. whether that name is accurate remains to be seen
ShojiDeku
tentacles
tol and stronk, boy is even more solid muscle than either are alone, could bench press a building
still wears a mask. green eyes, curly silver hair, might have freckles but the mask covers them
scarred arms
respects women
very gentle
insanely creative with their quirk. they use mainly Izuku’s tentacles and strength because their body can handle it and it’s so freaking versatile. add enhanced senses and they’re basically prepared for anything
has a crush on Tsuyu
spends most of their time alone, but in a content way.
quiet
likes to climb things, buildings, trees, walls. they like to be high up
will pat shorter friends heads, like the gentle giant they are
can absolutely still go feral but have to be pushed pretty far to get to that point
genuinely likes to study
is good at science
likes to clean and fix things
good at repairs
finds catharsis and improving situations
AoDeku
chronic pain
cloud-like yellow hair with glitter in it, they try to style it, but it actively fights them. still covered in glitter
a weird, nervous smile
long eyelashes and purple doe eyes
didn’t get the freckles but will draw them on with makeup
full of anxiety and fear
weird laugh.
genuinely doing their best
get’s frustrated with people who aren’t trying
loves bread and cheese
multilingual
a fantastic artist. likes to paint
loves fantasy as a genre
prone to having deep fantasies and daydreams
they like to imply they’re magic/ psychic/ a witch and will read your palm and predict the future fairly accurately but really they’re just good at analysis
magic becomes their hero theme
can shoot lasers from any body part, can even make laser tentacles, but the backlash is bad
hates the hospital with a passion
struggles to ask for help or talk to adults
is actually pretty quiet most of the time. genuinely shy
don’t be mean to them, it’s like hurting a baby dear
has a tired cynical side but they don’t like that side of themselves
has a quiet sort of wisdom that goes far in helping their friends
HagaDeku
mischievous
cheeky
invisible
invisible tentacles, also imagine getting his by someone with super strength when you can’t see them.  flout with invisibility is also a scary combination
really positive
wears way too many accessories
talks a lot
bubbly
scary when they go silent, the type to spy and eavesdrop
will also just disappear sometimes. sometimes they’re just recharging after being too social, sometimes they are fighting villains
recovery girls nightmare. can you imagine performing surgery on someone you can’t see. if they just lose consciousness somewhere they’ll be hard to find
loves pop music
an all might stan
ships their friends
gets bored easily, will go and find trouble if it gets too bad
follows other chaotic people around, including the teachers. 
is considered really creepy, has definitely been called a stalker in the past
a master of psychological warfare
likes sweets
plays dnd and collects dice
(masterlist)
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samwisethewitch · 4 years ago
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Coping with religious trauma
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CONTENT WARNING: THIS POST CONTAINS DISCUSSIONS OF MENTAL ILLNESS, TRAUMA RECOVERY, AND HOMOPHOBIA. The advice in this post is intended for an adult audience, not for those who are legal minors.
A lot of people find their way to paganism after having traumatic experiences with organized religion, especially in countries like the United States, where 65% of the population identifies as Christian. (This number is actually at an all-time low — historically, the percentage has been much higher.) Paganism, which is necessarily less dogmatic and hierarchical than the Abrahamic religions, offers a chance to experience religion without having to fit a certain mold. This can be extremely liberating for people who have felt hurt, abused, or ignored by mainstream religion.
To avoid making generalizations that might offend people, I’ll share my own story as an example.
My family joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, better known as the Mormons, when I was nine years old. The Mormons are an extremely conservative sect of evangelical Christianity that places a heavy emphasis on maintaining a strong community that upholds their religious values. The problem with that is that Mormon values are inherently racist, sexist, homophobic, and transphobic. As a teenager in the Mormon Church, I was told that as a woman, my only purpose in life was to marry a (Mormon) man and raise (Mormon) children. I was discouraged from pursuing a college education if it meant delaying marriage. I was not allowed to participate in the full extent of religious ritual because I was not a man. I was not allowed to express myself in ways that went against Mormon culture, and I kept my bisexuality secret for fear I would be ostracized. I didn’t have any sort of support system outside the Church, which inevitably made the mental health issues that come with being a queer woman in a conservative Christian setting much, much worse.
I left the Mormons when I was seventeen, and by that time I had some major issues stemming from my time in the Church. I had been extremely depressed and anxious for most of my teen years. I struggled with internalized misogyny and homophobia. I had very low self-esteem. I had anxiety around sex and sexuality that would take years of therapy and self-work to overcome. I wanted to form a connection with the divine, but I wasn’t sure if I was worthy of such a connection.
I was attracted to paganism, specifically Wicca, because it seemed like everything Mormonism wasn’t. Wicca teaches equality between men and women, with a heavy focus on the Goddess in worship. It places an emphasis on doing what is right for you, as long as it doesn’t harm anyone else. It encourages sexuality and healthy sexual expression. Learning about Wicca, and later other types of paganism, helped me develop the kind of healthy spirituality I’d never experienced as a Mormon. Although Wicca is no longer the backbone of my religious practice, it was a necessary and deeply healing step on my spiritual journey.
I’m not sharing my story to gain sympathy or to make anyone feel bad — I’m sharing it because my situation is not an uncommon one in pagan circles. The vast majority of pagans are converts, meaning they didn’t grow up pagan. Some had healthy upbringings in other faiths, or no faith at all, and simply found that paganism was a better fit for them. Others, like myself, had deeply traumatic experiences with organized religion and are attracted to paganism because of the freedom, autonomy, and empowerment it offers.
If you fall into this latter category, this post is for you. Untangling the threads of religious trauma can be an extremely difficult and overwhelming task. In this post, I lay out six steps to recovery based on my own experiences and those of other people, both pagan and non-pagan, who have lived through religious trauma.
While following these steps will help jumpstart your spiritual healing, it’s important to remember that healing is not a linear process — especially healing from emotional, mental, and spiritual trauma. You may have relapses, you may feel like you’re moving in circles, and you may still have bad days in five or ten years. That’s okay. That’s part of the healing process. Go easy on yourself, and let your journey unfold naturally.
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Step One: Cut all ties with the group that caused your trauma
Or, at least, cut as many ties as reasonably possible.
Obviously, if you’re still participating in a religious organization that has caused you pain, the first step is to leave! But before you do, make sure you have an exit plan to help you disengage safely and gracefully.
To make your exit plan, start by asking yourself what the best, worst, and most likely case scenarios are, and be honest in your answers. Obviously, the best case scenario is that you leave, everyone accepts it, and all is well. The worst case scenario is that someone tries to prevent you from leaving — you may be harassed by missionaries or concerned churchgoers, for example. But what is the most likely case scenario? That depends on the religious community, their beliefs, and how involved you were in the first place. When making your exit plan, prepare for the most likely scenario, but have a backup plan in case the worst case scenario happens.
Once you’ve prepared yourself for the best, worst, and most likely outcomes, choose a friend, significant other, or family member who can help you make your exit. Ideally, this person is not a member of the group you are trying to leave. Their role is mainly to provide emotional support, although they may also need to be willing to run off any well-meaning missionaries who come calling. This person can also help you transition after you leave. For example, you might make a plan to get coffee with them every week during the time your old religious community holds worship services.
Finally, make your strategy for leaving. Choose a date and don’t put it off! If you have any responsibilities within the group, send in a letter of resignation. Figure out who you’ll need to have conversations with about your leaving — this will likely include any family members or close friends who are still part of the group. Schedule those conversations. Make sure to have them in public places, where people will be less likely to make a scene.
If you feel it is necessary, you may want to request that your name be removed from the group’s membership records so you don’t get emails, phone calls, or friendly visits from them in the future. You may not feel the need to do this, but if contact with the group triggers a mental health crisis, this extra step will help keep you safe.
Of course, it’s not always possible to completely cut ties with a group after leaving. You may have family members, a significant other, or close friends who are still members. If this is the case, you’ll need to establish some clear boundaries. Politely but firmly tell them that, although you’re glad their faith adds value to their lives, you are not willing to be involved in their religious activities. Let them know that this is what is best for your mental and emotional health and that you still value your relationship with them.
Try to make compromises that allow you to preserve the relationship without exposing you to a traumatic religious environment. For example, if your family is Christian and always spends all day on Christmas at church, offer to celebrate with them the day after, once their religious commitments are over.
Hopefully, your loved ones can respect these boundaries. If not, you may need to distance yourself or walk away altogether. If they are knowingly undermining your attempts to take care of yourself, they don’t deserve to be in your life.
During this time, you may find it helpful to read other people’s exit stories online or in books. One of my personal favorites is the book Girl at the End of the World by Elizabeth Esther. Hearing other people’s stories can help you remember that other people have been through similar situations and made it out on the other side. You will too.
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Step Two: Seek professional help
I cannot overstate the importance of professional counseling when dealing with trauma of any kind, including religious trauma. Therapists and counselors have the benefit of professional training. They are able to be objective, since they’re approaching the situation from the outside. They can keep you from getting bogged down in your own thoughts and feelings.
I understand that not everyone has access to therapy. I am very lucky to have insurance that covers mental health counseling, but I know not everyone has that privilege. However, there are some options that make therapy more affordable.
There may be an organization in your area that offers free or low-cost therapy — if you live in the U.S., you can find information about these services by checking the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) HelpLine or visiting mentalhealth.gov. You can also look for therapists who use a sliding scale for payment, which means they determine an hourly rate based on the client’s income. And finally, if you have a little bit of extra cash you may want to look into therapy apps like BetterHelp or Talkspace, which are typically cheaper than in-person therapy.
If none of those options work for you, the next best option is to join a support group. Support groups allow you to connect with other people whose experiences are similar to yours and, unlike therapy, they allow you to get advice and feedback from multiple people. These groups are often free, although some charge a small fee.
Finding the right group for you is important. You’re unlikely to find a group for people recovering from religious trauma but, depending on the nature of your trauma, you may fit right in with a grief and loss group, an addiction recovery group, or a group for adult survivors of child abuse. If you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community, you may be able to find a queer support group. (The LGBTQ+ club at my college was an invaluable resource in my recovery!) Depending on your area, you may also be able to find groups for specific mental and emotional issues like depression or anxiety.
Make sure to do your research before attending a meeting. Find out what, if anything, the group charges, who can join, and whether they use a curriculum or have unstructured sessions. See if you can find a statement about their values and philosophy. Make a note of where meetings are held and of who is running the group. Some support groups meet in churches and may or may not have a religious element to their curriculum. It’s best to avoid religious groups — the last thing you need right now is to be preached to.
Getting other people involved in your recovery will make you feel less alone and prevent you from getting stuck in your own head. A good therapist, counselor, or support group can help you realize what you need to work on and give you ideas for how to approach it.
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Step Three: Deprogramming
“Deprogramming” refers to the practice of undoing brainwashing and reintroducing healthy thought patterns. This term is normally used in the context of cult survivors and their recovery, but deprogramming techniques can also be helpful for people recovering from a lifetime of toxic religious rhetoric.
To begin the process of deprogramming, familiarize yourself with the way organizations use thought control to shape the behavior of their members. I recommend starting with the work of Steven Hassan — his BITE model is a handy way to classify types of thought control.
The BITE model lays out four types of control. There’s Behavior Control, which controls what members do and how they spend their free time. (For example, requiring members to attend multiple hours-long meetings each week.) There’s Information Control, which restricts members’ access to information. (For example, denying certain aspects of the group’s history.) There’s Thought Control, which shapes the way members think. (For example, classifying certain thoughts as sinful or dirty.) And finally there’s Emotional Control, which manipulates members’ emotions. (For example, instilling fear of damnation or punishment.)
Here’s a simple exercise to get you started with your deprogramming. Divide a blank sheet of paper into four equal sections. Label one section “Behavior,” one “Information,” one “Thought,” and one “Emotions.” Now, in each section, make a list of the ways your old religious group controlled — and maybe still controls — that area of your life. Once you’ve completed your lists, choose a single item from one of your lists to work on undoing.
For example, let’s say that in your “Information” column, you’ve written that you were discouraged from reading certain books because they contained “evil” ideas. (For a lot of people, this was Harry Potter. For me, it was The Golden Compass.) Pick up one of those books, and read it or listen to it as an audiobook. Once you’ve read it, write down your thoughts. Did you enjoy it? Why or why not? Why do you think your group banned it? What was in this book that they didn’t want you to know about? Write it down.
Once you’ve worked on the first thing, choose something else. Keep going until you’ve undone all the items on your lists.
If you want to go further with deprogramming, I recommend the book Recovering Agency by Luna Lindsey. Although this book is specifically written for former Mormons, I genuinely believe it would be helpful to former members of other controlling religious groups as well. Lindsey does an excellent job of explaining how thought control works and of connecting it to real world examples, as well as deconstructing those ideas. Her book has been a huge help in my recovery process, and I highly recommend it.
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Step Four: Replace toxic beliefs and practices with healthy ones
This goes hand-in-hand with step three, and if you’re already working on deprogramming then you’ll already have started replacing your unhealthy beliefs. This is the turning point in the recovery process. You’re no longer just undoing what others have done to you — now you get an opportunity to decide what you want to believe and do going forward. This is the time to let go of things like denial of your desires, fear of divine punishment, and holding yourself to unattainable standards. Get used to living in a way that makes you happy, without guilt.
Notice how each step builds on the previous steps. Therapy and deprogramming can help you identify what beliefs and behaviors need to be adjusted or replaced. Your therapist, support group, and/or emotional support person can help you make these changes and follow through on them.
These new beliefs and practices don’t have to be religious — in fact, it’s better if they aren’t. If you can live a healthy, happy, balanced life without religion, you’ll be in a better position to choose a religion that is the right fit for you, if that is something you want.
Your new healthy, non-religious practices may include: mindfulness meditation, nature walks, journaling, reading, exercise, energy work, learning a hobby or craft, or spending time with loves ones — or it might include none of these things, and that’s okay too. Now is the time to find what brings you joy and start doing it every day.
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Step Five: Ritual healing
This is an optional step, but it’s one that has been deeply healing for me. You may find it helpful to design and perform a ritual to mark your recovery.
Note that when I say “ritual,” I don’t necessarily mean magic. Rituals serve a psychological purpose as well as a spiritual one. They can act as powerful symbolic events that mark a turning point in our lives or reinforce what we already know and believe. Even if you don’t believe in magic, even if you’re the least spiritual person you know, you can still benefit from ritual.
You might choose to perform a ritual to finalize your healing, or to symbolically throw off the chains of your old religion. It can be elaborate or simple, long or short, joyful or solemn. It might include lighting a candle and saying a few words. It might include ecstatic dance. It might include drawing or painting a representation of all the negative emotions associated with your old religion, then ritually destroying it. The possibilities are literally endless. (If you’re looking for ritual ideas, I recommend the book Light Magic for Dark Times by Lisa Marie Basile.)
One type of ritual that some people find very empowering is unbaptism. An unbaptism is exactly what it sounds like — the opposite of a baptism. The idea is that, if a baptism makes a Christian, an unbaptism makes someone un-Christian, no longer part of that lineage. It is a ritual rejection of Christianity. (Obviously, this only applies if you’re a former Christian, though some of the following suggestions could be adjusted to fit a rejection of other religions.)
If you’re interested in unbaptism, here are some ideas for how it could be done:
A classic method of unbaptism is to recite the Lord’s Prayer backwards under a full moon. (For a non-Christians version, use a significant prayer from whatever religion you have left.)
Run a bath. Add a tiny pinch of sulfur (a.k.a. brimstone) to the water. Get into the bath and say, “By water I was baptized, and by water my baptism is rejected.” Submerge your entire body under the water for several seconds. When you come back up, your unbaptism is complete. (You may want to shower after this one. Sulfur does not smell good.)
The Detroit Satanic Temple has a delightfully dramatic unbaptism ritual. For a DIY version, you will need holy water or some other relic from the faith you were baptized in, a fireproof dish, a black candle, and an apple or other sweet fruit. Light the candle and place it in your fireproof dish. Toss some holy water onto the flame (not enough to extinguish it) and say, “I cast my chains into the dust of hell.” Take a bite of the apple and say, “I savor the fruit of knowledge and disobedience.” Finally, declare proudly, “I am unbaptized.” You can add “in the name of Satan” at the end or leave it out, depending on your comfort level.
Personally, I’ve never felt the need to unbaptize myself. I’ve ritually rejected my Mormon upbringing in other ways. Maybe someday I’ll decide to go for the unbaptism, but I’ve never really felt like I needed it. Likewise, you’ll need to decide for yourself what ritual(s) will work for you.
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Step Six: Honor your recovery
Our first reaction to trauma is to hide it away and never speak of it again. When we do this, we do ourselves a disservice. Your recovery is a part of your life story. You had the strength to walk away from a situation that was hurting you, and that deserves to be celebrated! Be proud of yourself for how far you’ve come!
You may choose to honor your recovery by celebrating an important date every year, like the day you decided to leave the group, the date of the last meeting you attended, or the date you were removed from the membership records. Keep this celebration fun and light — get drinks with friends, bake a cake for yourself, or just take a few moments to silently acknowledge your journey.
If you feel like having a party is a bit much, you can also honor your recovery by talking to other people about your experiences. Share your story with others. If you’re feeling shy, try sharing your story anonymously online. (Reddit has several forums specifically for anonymous stories.) You’ll be amazed by how validating it can be to tell people what you’ve been through. `
Another way to honor your recovery is to work for personal and religious freedom for all people. Protest laws with religious motivations. Donate to organizations that campaign for the separation of church and state. Educate people about how to recognize an unhealthy religious organization. Let your own story motivate you to help others who are in similar situations.
And most of all, take joy in your journey. Be proud of yourself for how far you’ve come, but know that your recovery is a lifelong journey. Be gentle and understanding with yourself. You are doing what is right for you, and no god or spirit worthy of worship could ever be upset by that.
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broccoliboix5peepeeman · 4 years ago
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Heeey there~! 🥺👉🏾👈🏾 I think the world could use a cute bunny!Izuku tddk fic and you’re the perfect person to write one into existence! 😭 Thank you in advance!
Anything for you, friendo!!! <333
Ao3 Link
Word count: 5125
Well…  Shoto thought to himself, looking down at the pile of clothes on the pavement. This is a surprise.
 He honestly had no idea what had happened. One minute, him and Midoriya were walking down the street towards Yuuei with their groceries, the next, a small child had barrelled past them, knocking Midoriya's arm as she went. Initially, his friend had insisted that he was fine, but the moment the culprit had turned down the next street, he had vanished, his clothes and bag unceremoniously clattering to the floor.
 Shoto had been - understandably, he thought - alarmed by the development. After all, it wasn't every day one's best friend and crush disappeared, leaving nothing but a pile of clothes behind. Shoto was entirely ready to sprint after the children and shake them for information, when suddenly something moved under the pile, informing him that his friend was indeed still alive, just struggling to get free.
 'Midoriya?'
 Shoto knelt down and tried to untangle the clothes so whatever was underneath could escape. What he wasn't expecting was to come face to face with a fluffy Havana rabbit in place of his friend. 
 'Oh.'
 Wide, verdant eyes with dilated pupils stared up at him questioningly and Shoto felt himself blush at the sight. He knew those eyes better than his own.
  Yes… Definitely Midoriya. 
 Just when he thought his best friend couldn't get any cuter, he had to go and turn into the most adorable rabbit in the world.
 His ears were upright, albeit a tiny bit shorter than average, his nose was pink as it moved around, sniffing the air, and his coat was ebony with an emerald shine, except for his paws, which were white and messy.
  It's like he's wearing socks...
 Shoto shook himself. 
  Fawn over your best friend later, fool. You've got a job to do.
'Midoriya, blink twice if you can understand me?'
 Those big eyes continued to watch him intently, before blinking twice in confirmation.
 'Good.' That made things a lot easier. 'Now, are you hurt? Blink once for no, twice for yes.'
 Midoriya blinked once, much to his relief. Then, he let out an adorable sneeze that went straight to Shoto's heart.
  So cute.
 'Okay, I'm going to pick up your clothes and bags so I can take us back to the dorms. Am I okay to carry you?'
 Midoriya nodded and Shoto could've sworn his friend was smiling. He tried not to dwell on it though and got to work. He shoved Midoriya's clothes into one of the fallen carrier bags, before picking them up and transferring them to one hand. The weight was fine, but the straps bit into his fingers harshly - it was going to be a painful walk back.
 Midoriya must've sensed his distress though, because the moment Shoto scooped him up against his chest, his friend hopped up and took his place on Shoto's shoulder. When he turned to look at him, confused, Midoriya nuzzled his nose against his cheek to assure him that he was fine.
 It took every ounce of self-control for Shoto not to set them both on fire with his quirk.
 'Okay, Midoriya. I'll allow it.' He spoke evenly, despite his friend still rubbing against him. 'But if you fall, I'm going to be very upset. I will cry, don't test me.'
 The rabbit squeaked at that and made sure to shuffle a little closer, until he was nestled near the crook of Shoto’s neck.
 Distributing the carrier bags into both hands to distract him from the proximity, Shoto then set off down the street.
 Somehow, the walk back wasn't as uncomfortable as he thought it would be. Sure, some people sent him confused looks, while others straight up muttered about how he was a careless owner for letting Midoriya perch on his shoulder, but Shoto found that being in Midoriya's presence helped him feel less agitated. After all, Midoriya always had a talent for calming Shoto down when he let his anger get the better of him. 
 Soft fur brushed against his face and Shoto sighed, content, before deciding that he should probably say something.
 'How are you feeling?'
 Silence.
 When Midoriya tilted his head to the side, he realised his mistake. 'Oh yeah. Er, blink once for good, twice for okay, three for sad, four for other.'
 He didn't appreciate how easy it was for Midoriya to look so amused as he blinked twice. Before Shoto could ask though, Midoriya settled back near his neck and purred.
  I didn't know rabbits could purr.
 Shoto exhaled carefully to control himself and quickly decided to continue the rest of their journey in silence, lest he embarrass himself further.
 🐇🐇
 'Why is it, when something happens, it is always you two.' Aizawa leant against his desk and pinched his brow.
 'For the record, Sensei,' Shoto raised a finger. 'I understood that reference and think that the current circumstances are a lot different.'
 'Answer the question, Todoroki.' Aizawa glared at him. 'Why is Midoriya a rabbit?'
 Shoto sighed heavily and proceeded to explain what had happened. He informed his teacher that there was no foul play - it was merely an accident - and that Midoriya wasn't hurt. Aizawa nodded at set intervals and when Shoto eventually fell silent, he pushed himself away from his desk and looked down at them.
 'It wouldn't be logical to punish you for this.' He began bluntly. 'But in the future, I will be more stringent with your liberties to leave school grounds alone.'
 He then looked down at the small rabbit, sitting by Shoto's leg. 'Midoriya, you have to go see Recovery Girl in case there are any health concerns we need to be aware of. I will take you. Todoroki, go back to the dorms and keep this to yourself for now.'
 'Yes, Sensei.'
 Before he could turn around though, Midoriya suddenly nuzzled against his leg in an effort to make him stay.
 Shoto looked down questioningly to find wide eyes staring up at him, filled with emotion. Unable to simply walk away from such an expression, he crouched down to stroke his chin.
 'It's okay, Midoriya. I won’t be gone for long.'
 As it turned out, it was not okay.
 The moment Aizawa bent down to pick him up, Midoriya went feral. He jumped into the air to escape his teacher's incoming hands and landed a metre to his left.
 'Problem child.' Aizawa warned, before trying again. However, Midoriya repeated the action, then bounced in a zigzag motion to evade capture. When he came to a stop, Shoto noticed the look of defiance on his face - if that were even possible.
 Aizawa grumbled and fingered his capture weapon. 'Don't make me use this.'
 Midoriya frowned before hopping to hide behind the desk. Their teacher followed him, muttering something about how 'you little gremlins never make it easy for me.'
 Shoto stood, gawking as the two circled the desk comically. Eventually, Aizawa reached his breaking point and raised his capture weapon.
 However, Midoriya was ready.
 Shoto watched in awe as emerald and scarlet lightning came to life with the activation of his quirk. Sparks danced around his friend's small form as he leapt into the air to avoid the scarf. With practiced ease, he bounced off the walls around them - his style similar to his human form - before he eventually landed behind him. Shoto looked down to find Midoriya hiding behind his leg and glaring up at their teacher.
 'Midoriya.' Aizawa almost growled, crimson eyes flashing dangerously. The moment his erasure activated, the shining light vanished from around the rabbit. 'Come here, now.'
 Thump.
 Shoto stared, bemused.
 'Are you serious?' Aizawa raised an eyebrow.
 Another thump.
 'Don't you thump your foot at me, kiddo.' Their teacher snapped, albeit Shoto could tell the action had mellowed his anger. In any other situation, he might've smiled at the way pro-hero Eraserhead attempted to lecture a rabbit.
 Now though, he had to play the peacemaker.
 'Midoriya.' Shoto spoke gently. Angry eyes softened when they landed on him. 'If I stay with you, will you go to Recovery Girl? You can ride on my shoulder again?'
 His friend considered this offer, before nodding once.
 'Unbelievable.' Aizawa waved his hand, exasperated. 'You two will be the death of me.'
 Shoto considered his teacher, before bending down to pick Midoriya up with ease. When he got settled on his shoulder, the two followed Aizawa out of the room.
 As they walked down the corridor, he heard his teacher mutter, 'I swear, if you pull this shit again, I'll set Sushi on you.'
 'Who's Sushi?' Shoto asked.
 'None of your business.'
 🐇🐇
 One thing Shoto quickly came to release, as he dutifully accepted his role as caregiver, was that Midoriya was a lot more clingy than usual.
 He couldn't tell whether it was a side effect of the quirk or whether his friend was simply taking advantage of his adorableness and being affectionate because he knew no one would be able to deny him cuddles. Either way, Shoto didn't mind. He liked hugging Midoriya as much as he enjoyed receiving them.
 He especially didn't mind that Midoriya seemed to be the most affectionate with him, as he watched his peers slowly come to terms with their classmate's temporary form.
 'He's so tiny!' Ashido gushed, as Yaoyorozu stroked Midoriya, who looked rather content in her lap. 'I just wanna squeeze his cheeks and eat him all up!
 Midoriya squeaked at that.
 'Stop scaring him, Ashido-san!' Yaoyorozu gasped, before scratching behind his ears to calm him.
 'He knows I'm only joking.' She waved her off. 'We all know Bakugou's the one who likes rabbit stew anyway-'
 'Ashido.' Shoto warned, as he strode towards where Yaoyorozu was sitting. He noticed how Midoriya trembled at the mention of Bakugou's name and immediately bent down, opening his arms. 'It's okay. He's not gonna hurt you. You want a hug?'
 Nodding quickly, Midoriya jumped out of Yaoyorozu's lap, trusting Shoto to catch him in his arms and bring him close to his chest. Shoto cradled the back of his small head, stroking pointed ears as his other hand supported his fluffy butt. He tried to ignore the fact that he was technically groping his crush, but he couldn't hide his blush, especially when Midoriya reached up to lick his neck.
 'That's so cute!' Hagakure exclaimed, shaking Ashido by the shoulders while the rest of the girls cooed at the display. 'I've never seen Todoroki-kun so affectionate!'
 'Look at Deku-kun's little tongue, I'm dying!' Uraraka squealed with excitement as she bounced on the balls of her feet. 'Catch me, Iida-kun. I might swoon.'
 'Urarak-ah!' The class president yelped as she dramatically fell into his arms. 'I told you to stay hydrated!'
 'I'm just being dramatic, jeez!' Uraraka pouted, flopping against Iida.
 Shoto raised an eyebrow at his friends' antics, before turning his attention back to Midoriya, who was nibbling at his shirt. He smiled softly at the action and stroked one of his ears.
 'You're not allowed to eat my clothes, Midoriya.' He playfully scolded.
 Then a thought occurred to him.
 'Hey, Iida.' He spoke softly, not taking his gaze away from Midoriya, who stared up at him with big eyes. 'I need to fetch some food for Midoriya. He hasn't eaten all day, so could you look after him for me?'
 Uraraka fell to the floor with a shriek and in seconds, Iida was in front of them.
 'It would be my pleasure to look after Midoriya-kun!' He announced, before his voice suddenly dropped and he rubbed the back of his neck. 'In fact, I was actually hoping I would get the chance to hold him, but I did not want to presume that I had that privilege!'
 'What do you think, Midoriya?' Shoto tilted his head to the side. 'Can Iida hold you?'
 His friend nuzzled against him softly, before eventually nodding. He turned to the class president and Shoto lifted him up under the arms to hand to Iida, whose eyes were wide and nervous.
 When Midoriya got settled, Shoto then stepped back, lip twitching slightly. 'What do you want? Rabbits like carrots, right?'
 Midoriya stuck his tongue out and made a gagging noise, which Shoto found oddly amusing.
 'Midoriya-kun!' Iida went to gesticulate, but quickly realised both his hands were occupied. 'It is important to get the right nutrition, especially given the fact that you are under the effect of a quirk!'
 'It's okay, Iida.' Shoto narrowed his eyes at the rabbit. 'I know Midoriya won't say no to spinach.'
 Little ears pointed upwards and his nose twitched with interest. Shoto's heart skipped a beat. 'I'll take that as a yes.'
 In a moment of boldness, he then raised a finger and booped Midoriya's damp nose, before turning and heading to the kitchen.
 When he arrived, he took some spinach from the fridge and rinsed it under the tap, then reached for Midoriya's favourite All Might bowl. Fully armed with his food, Shoto then looked over his shoulder and raised an eyebrow at Iida, who was trying not to hand chop Midoriya as he stroked him. Keeping his face neutral, lest he betray his amusement, he then made his way towards one of the more quiet members of his class, who was mixing some honey into his cup of tea.
 'Koda, can I ask you something?' He mumbled, watching his classmate jump slightly at having been addressed.
 When he realised Shoto was actually talking to him, Koda nodded, tilting his head to the side in question.
 'Can you use your quirk on Midoriya?' Shoto scratched his cheek. 'Earlier, when I asked him if he was okay, he indicated that he was, but I want to be sure. I- I'm worried about him.'
 Koda looked at him, knowingly - Shoto wasn't quite sure how to feel about that - then nodded softly and walked over to Midoriya. His classmate whispered something into a large ear and Shoto waited for the result.
 Midoriya ground his teeth together as he seemed to reply, before his eyes met Shoto's own, a warmth in them that was oddly familiar and relaxing. He was so enraptured by them, he didn't notice that Koda had returned to his side until he flashed a thumbs up.
 'Midoriya-san's okay.' He spoke in a high voice, slightly amused. 'He was slightly overwhelmed at first, because the quirk seems to make him act more on instinct, but now that he’s accepted that, he told me he's liking all the hugs and pets! He feels rather tall on your shoulder too. And er…'
 'Yes?'
 'Er…' Koda grinned bashfully. 'Midoriya-san also said that "with Todoroki-kun fussing over me, I've never been better, so please tell him he doesn't need to worry about me".'
 Shoto flushed at that, but before he could fruitlessly try to defend himself, the door to the common room slammed open.
 'DEKU!'
 Shoto rolled his eyes and turned to find Bakugou storming into the room, making a beeline for Midoriya, who had frozen in Iida's arms. 'Is it true you're so pathetic you let a kid use their quirk on you?'
 He came to a stop and stared at the rabbit, before he burst out laughing. 'Ha! Look at you! You really are pathetic!'
 'Bakugou-kun!' Iida exclaimed. 'Please refrain from calling Midoriya such names!'
 'Shut up, four eyes!' He growled. 'I'm just speaking the truth!'
 Shoto placed his bowl of spinach on the counter and made his way over. Everyone was used to Bakugou's aggressive nature - whether they liked it or not - but that just fuelled Shoto’s need to protect Midoriya even more, especially in this state.
 'No one wants you here, Bakugou.' He spoke firmly. 'If you're just going to run your mouth, you can do it somewhere else, where you won't use my best friend as your verbal punching bag.'
 'Don't fucking tell me what to do, Half n Half!' He growled, baring his teeth at Shoto. 'Like I give a shit what you extras want!'
 'You're making Midoriya-san uncomfortable.' Yaoyorozu stood up then, fists clenched. 'Bakugou-san I must insist you stop. He's had a rough enough day as it is.'
 'Do I look like I care?'
 'No, but you should.' Shoto crossed his arms over his chest and looked at him, coolly. 'He may look helpless, but that right there is a ruthless killing machine.'
 'Fuck off, Half n Half. Like Deku could do anything to me.' He stuck his finger out to poke Midoriya. 'What are you gonna do? Eat a carro- AGH! YOU BASTARD!'
 Shoto couldn't hide his smile when Midoriya bit Bakugou's finger in retaliation, a look of defiance on his face. His classmate reeled back, clutching his bloody hand, before he lunged for Midoriya. However, the latter was faster and leapt out of Iida's arms just as Bakugou crashed into the class rep and the two clattered to the floor with a shriek.
 Green lightning coursed through Midoriya as he flew through the air towards Shoto, who instinctively opened his arms to catch him.
 The moment he felt soft fur against him, Shoto took action, wrapping his arms around Midoriya and holding him close as his friend scrambled to burrow his head in the crook of Shoto's neck, trusting him to protect him.
 Bakugou snarled as he wrestled himself off Iida and onto his feet. Before he could continue his attack though, Shoto raised his right arm and pointed it at him.
 'You brought that on yourself, Bakugou.' His voice was even. 'Now back off. I'm not letting you anywhere near him.'
 'Ha! Don't make me laugh.' Bakugou spat, tiny explosions popping from his hands.
 Shoto noticed the way Midoriya pressed closer, sensitive to the loud noises as his damp nose wet his neck, and frowned. Lowering his temperature, he prepared to attack, when suddenly the door slammed open. 
 'I AM HERE TO SEE MIDORIYA-SHOUNEN!' All Might burst into the room, his muscled body flexing before he reverted back to his true form with a puff of smoke. Shoto watched, mildly concerned, as his teacher hacked up an inordinate amount of blood into a tissue. 
 When All Might eventually cleared his face and pocketed the tissue, he smiled sheepishly at the class. However, when he noticed Bakugou's fighting stance, Shoto's frost and Iida's mid-air hand chop, he frowned.
 'Am I interrupting something?'
 'It's all under control, Sensei!' Yaoyorozu stepped between Shoto and Bakugou and clasped her hands together. 'Bakugou was just going to see Recovery Girl about his finger.'
 'The fu-'
 'Really?' All Might raised an eyebrow. 'What happened?'
 'That vermin bit me, so I'm gonna make him regret-'
 'You invaded Midoriya-kun's personal space!' Iida frantically shouted. 'The consequences are justified.'
 'Four-eyes, I swear to fuck, I'll end you!'
 'Language, Bakugou-shounen.' All Might raised a finger. 'I'll deal with Midoriya-shounen, but right now, you need to go to the infirmary.'
 Bakugou glared at his teacher and, for a moment, Shoto thought he'd refuse, when finally, the blonde tsked and turned away.
 'Fucking rodent's probably gonna give me rabies.' He muttered as he stalked out of the room. When he was out of earshot, Shoto tilted his head to the side.
 'How would we be able to tell the difference if he did have rabies?'
 It was a genuine question, yet when everyone around him laughed - including a vibrating Midoriya - Shoto allowed himself a small smile.
 🐇🐇
 Shortly after Bakugou departed, All Might took the opportunity to take Midoriya outside for a quick word. Shoto wasn’t entirely sure how many words were going to be exchanged during their conversation, seen as Midoriya couldn’t exactly talk, but he trusted the former number one hero to figure it out.
 So, while he waited for his friend to return, Shoto wandered back to the kitchen, grabbed his food for Midoriya and took a moment to simply relax. As much as he loved spending time with his friends, all this socialising was starting to become rather overwhelming, so it was nice to finally have a quiet moment to himself, now that his classmates weren’t hounding him for information about Midoriya’s current state.
 He managed ten minutes of pure Shoto-time, before he heard a cackle from the living room and the chaos began once more.
 Preparing himself for worst, Shoto turned around, only to come face to face with verdant eyes, mere inches from his face. Shoto’s own eyes widened and he stepped back in shock, watching as a black and green rabbit floated lazily in the air.
 ‘Midoriya?’
 His friend nodded to him in greeting, indifferent to the way his back legs rose higher as he began to rotate. His ears flopped against gravity as he turned upside down, nose twitching as he eyed the spinach in Shoto's hand.
 Unable to look away, he fumbled to grab a leaf and brought it to Midoriya's mouth. His friend eagerly nibbled at it and in seconds it was gone.
 Shoto watched, blinking dumbly, before he shook his head and finally found his voice.
 'Uraraka, why is Midoriya floating?' He spoke calmly, raising his arm and poking soft fur so that his friend was upright once more. ‘Where’s All Might?’
 ‘He had to leave to make a phone call.’ Uraraka shrugged, then she watched as Midoriya continued floating across the room and grinned. ‘As for Deku-kun, he said he missed being tall, so I said I’d help him out.’
 ‘You speak rabbit now?’ He raised an eyebrow, unimpressed.
 ‘Miruko-san taught me a little, yeah!’ She crossed her arms over her chest and pouted. However, when Shoto shot her a look, she groaned and brought her hands together. 'You're no fun, Todoroki-kun. Release!'
 Midoriya squeaked as the gravity returned to his body and he descended to the ground. Abandoning the bowl, Shoto dove forward to catch him, arms outstretched. He breathed a sigh of relief as a fluffy stomach made contact with his open palms, safe, before he landed on the floor with a thud, chin, elbows and stomach receiving carpet burn as he slid forward slightly.
 'A bit of warning would've been nice.' He grumbled. However, his anger quickly dissipated when Midoriya hopped towards him and licked his nose in thanks.
 'I knew you'd catch him.' Uraraka skipped forward and patted her friend on the head. 'See, Deku-kun. I told you Todoroki-kun would fall for you!'
 Shoto buried his head in the carpet and groaned.
 🐇🐇
 Shoto wasn't exactly sure how he got into this position. One minute, he was reclined in one of the common room armchairs, reading a manga he had borrowed from Sero, while Midoriya released some pent up energy by zooming around the room. The next moment, he awoke from an unexpected nap to find his friend laid across his chest, twitching as he slept.
 Shoto looked down at him with a soft expression as he registered the way his hands had wrapped protectively around Midoriya whilst he slept. Not wanting to let go just yet, he absentmindedly stroked soft, dark fur, hugging his friend closer and watching the way Midoriya moved with each rise and fall of Shoto's chest.
 The two stayed that way for a while; Midoriya gently snoozed while Shoto fussed over him, gradually working his hand up to rub his head. He tickled the crease where upright ears met his head, before Shoto reached his friend's whiskers. He noticed how Midoriya leant into the touch and felt himself smile.
 Eventually though, in typical Midoriya fashion, his twitches increased in size and frequency as he dreamt, until the poor boy woke himself up with a full body convulsion. Alarmed, he lifted his head and looked around frantically, nose twitching as he smelt the environment.
 'Hey, bunny.' Shoto soothed, eyes widening when he processed the nickname, but Midoriya didn't seem to mind. In fact, his friend physically relaxed at the sound of his voice, then turned his head to lick Shoto's hand in greeting.
 His heart swelled. 'Must've been quite the dream if it woke you up.'
 Midoriya squeaked, before hiding his face between his paws, embarrassed. His fluffy body shook when Shoto's chest rumbled with amusement.
 'What were you dreaming about? All Might?'
 Midoriya shook his head.
 'Bakugou?'
 Shoto shouldn't have felt such satisfaction when his friend growled at the mention of that name, but alas, he was a simple man.
 'Were you dreaming about me?' He tried to sound playful, but couldn't hide the slight blush on his cheeks.
 It didn't help that Midoriya just stared at him with big, round eyes, like he wanted to say something, then Shoto realised.
  Oh…
 'You were chasing a cat, weren't you?' He asked, intelligently.
 He didn't know rabbits could sigh, let alone with that much exasperation.
 'No?' He quirked an eyebrow. 'I'm not sure then, you'll have to tell me about it when you can talk again.'
 Midoriya shook his head, before he let out a big yawn.
 'You still sleepy?' Shoto tilted his head to the side, scratching his friend's chin. 'Maybe we should head to bed then. Blink once for my room, twice for your room.'
 Midoriya stared at him for a moment, as if to say, 'Are you sure?'
 'I'm not leaving you on your own, Midoriya.' Shoto answered, as if it were obvious. 'What if something happened to you? You can’t use your phone, you don’t even have opposable thumbs.’
 His friend scrunched his nose up and frowned, before he relented and blinked once.
 ‘My room it is.’ Shoto reluctantly stopped stroking Midoriya and picked him up. After setting him comfortably on his shoulder, he stood up, grabbed the discarded manga and exited the common room.
 By the time he entered his dorm room and got Midoriya settled on his futon, his friend was already dozing off again, his breathing evening out as his head rested against the pillow. Smiling softly at the sight, Shoto switched into his pyjamas and laid down next to his friend.
 He leant his cheek on his palm and observed his sleeping form, basking in the rare opportunity to shamelessly appreciate Midoriya, one of the most important people in his life, without fear of being discovered. Pointed ears twitched, closed eyes fluttered and his teeth ground together slightly. Shoto watched the small behaviours, heart suddenly feeling too large for his chest as emotion consumed him.
 His mouth moved before he could think.
 'I'd do anything to protect you, you know?' He whispered softly, reaching a hand out before faltering. 'I promise, I'll try my best to always keep you safe.'
 When Midoriya snuggled further into the pillow, Shoto sighed and closed his eyes, sleep slowly returning.
 He missed the way verdant eyes opened to regard him with unbridled emotion, before shuffling closer.
 🐇🐇
 The first thing Shoto's hazy mind thought when he woke up the next morning was Heavy.
 Groaning, he rubbed his eyes with the back of his hand, before blinking them open, sleep blurring his vision. When it finally cleared, Shoto noticed that something was laid on top of him…
 Or to be more specific, someone.
 Or to be even more specific, Midoriya?!
 Shoto's eyes widened and his face immediately turned crimson. Midoriya Izuku was in his bed, cuddling Shoto and drooling all over his chest. His fluffy green hair tickled his neck and his large arm was wrapped around his waist protectively.
  How did…?
 It was only when he remembered the events of yesterday that Shoto realised the quirk must have just worn off in his sleep, causing Midoriya to transform back into his usual self.
  Nothing to worry about. Shoto told himself as he tried not to set his blanket on fire. You're glad he's back to normal. No need to feel- Wait…
 Shoto narrowed his eyes with suspicion, before he gingerly raised the blanket covering them, his curiosity getting the better of him. When his eyes landed on way too much freckled skin, he suppressed a yelp and dropped the material.
 His face felt like it was on fire, but before he could calm himself down, Midoriya suddenly roused. He squished his cheek against Shoto's chest, before he groaned and looked up at him, scratching his disheveled hair and smiling.
 'Hey, Todoroki-kun.' He mumbled, before rolling off Shoto and stretching. Luckily, the blanket still covered his lower body, but the frontal view of Midoriya's muscled torso was still too much for Shoto's heart that early in the morning.
 'Morning, Midoriya.' He replied, ignoring the way his voice squeaked slightly. 'How do you feel?'
 ‘I feel great, all thanks to you!’ His friend replied, chirpily. ‘Thank you for looking after me yesterday. I know it was a little difficult at times.’
 ‘I’ll always look after you, Midoriya.’ Shoto shrugged, ignoring the blush on his cheeks.
 ‘Does that mean I can still cuddle you when I want to?’ Midoriya wiggled his eyebrows friskily, albeit he chuckled nervously. However, his playfulness was lost on Shoto.
 ‘Of course, it does.’ He fiddled with his blanket and looked away, realising his bluntness. ‘I like cuddling you and looking after you.’
 Midoriya’s teasing smile faltered and he gazed at Shoto, curiously. Several seconds passed, before his friend nudged closer and reached out a trembling hand.
 ‘What about this?’ He cupped Shoto’s cheek and stroked the area under his scar with a gentleness that juxtaposed the raw strength he knew Midoriya possessed. The touch was so warm, Shoto felt himself nod, eyelids fluttering shut. ‘Good, because yesterday made me realise a lot of things, gave me the opportunity to figure out what I want… What you might want.’
 Shoto exhaled shakily at that, not trusting himself to speak.
 When Midoriya spoke next, he sounded a lot closer and Shoto’s eyes shot open when warm breath fanned his face. ‘I know that I want to be closer to you, if that’s what you want too? I know this isn’t the same as yesterday, but-’
 ‘Am I definitely awake right now?’ Shoto interrupted, swallowing heavily.
 Midoriya smiled at that.
 ‘Yes.’
 ‘Good.’ Shoto placed his hand over the top of Midoriya’s own and leant forward to close the gap between them. He rubbed his lips against his friend’s own, before he kissed him softly, admiring the way slightly chapped lips pressed back. When they pulled away, Midoriya rested his forehead against his own and laughed breathlessly.
 ‘I’m glad you waited until I turned back into a human before doing that.’
 Shoto hummed softly and leant in to whisper in his ear.
 ‘Well, it’s not every day you wake up to find your best friend naked in your bed.’ He sat back then and waited as verdant eyes widened with realisation and Midoriya lifted the blanket to find that he was, indeed, not wearing any clothing.
 ‘WHAAA-?!’
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recoveringlesbian · 4 years ago
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I might lose followers for this but it needs to be said. To anyone that needs to hear this (you know who you are): You cannot say you're not pro ana and then proceed to publicly post shit like thinspo and your intake and pro ana content. Your blog is no longer your safe space if it is actively hurting people.
I understand you are struggling. I understand you are sick and alone and in pain. I've been there, i have. But that does not give you an excuse to spread such toxicity with a little "stay safe" note at the bottom as if that will somehow reverse the harm. Pro ana (even the shit that y'all pretend isn't) wasn't the direct cause of my eating disorder, but it contributed to making it worse and preventing me from recovering sooner.
Eating disorders are competitive as hell. You can't post something like that and expect it not to hurt people. If you absolutely have to, post it privately so only you can see it. Write it in a notebook. Scream it into your pillow for all I care. But stop. Hurting. Each other.
And ffs, never, ever post pro ana content under recovery tags. I don't even know why I have to say that.
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selfhealingblog · 3 years ago
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UPDATE: So, its been a long, long, journey. I can happily say that I am mostly recovered. Struggling with anxiety and dp/dr this past year - I persevered and beat it! Life is pretty much back to normal. The first step with recovering for myself, to acknowledge that it is okay to struggle with mental health issues such as anxiety. To treat yourself with kindness, to relax and love life again. Learning to self love was also a big one for me. You can still be a strong person even if you are having mental health struggles. I am also connected to myself and my environment. Medication and the right support system helped a lot, it gave me the strength to not give up.  I learnt more about dpdr, trauma and anxiety. Dpdr is Depersonalisation/derealization. This is a type of dissociation in which you feel disconnected from yourself/others. One of the causes of dpdr is that its a response to trauma, experiencing an overwhelming situation which you cannot fully process emotionally or physically. So then you dissociate from your external environment. It's part of the 'flight and fight' response but there's also a third, called 'freeze' This is when an individual's nervous system is sensitized and believes there's no escape(flight) nor any way to fight back, so you are triggered into freeze mode. For some people, this can lead to dpdr. There are many types of dissociative disorders, such as dissociative identity disorder where it’s developed due to trauma. There is a dissociative spectrum with different disorders and severity of its effects. I don’t know much about the other disorders, nor have enough knowledge to comment on them. I am just focusing on dpdr as it’s something I struggled with. Fortunately for myself, it took a lot less time to achieve a sense of normalcy.  Check the links below for more detailed explanations! 
Your body and mind can heal, and things can go back to normal - just give yourself the time, be understanding of your self and try not to overwhelm yourself :')
I started many different hobbies to try and build myself up! I tried music production and made a couple of songs, which I'm proud of and still listen to. I tried learning languages. Focusing back on Spanish and French, I used websites like memrise! I started writing to help myself emotionally process the past year and vent - although that had to stop because I got hacked lol. (Then, got accused of hacking which made it weirder) So, back to writing paper, and maybe someday i can buy a type-writer or something like that. I checked ebay and some are being sold for £30-40 so hmmmmm, tempting tempting. Gaming has also been a really relaxing distraction from daily stresses. I started playing animal crossing new horizons again and re-terraformed my whole island. I also stuck to a theme for my island 'cottagecore' apparently its a really common theme and overused in the acnh community, but sucK it, i love it. Also it was entertaining going on Nookazon daily; I have been trading with other players and visiting other islands.
It was faster to recover from anxiety and dp/dr by just continuing my day and plans as normal, even if it did make me anxious. If you're struggling similarly. I really would recommend to still do things, like go out with friends, go shopping, embrace hobbies, visit places you haven't been to before, and make new memories. Just make sure its balanced and you're not overwhelming yourself too fast - so take one step at a time. If you feel uncomfortable meeting with friends, try texting, calling, then build up to meeting them at a safe place and etc. Start in a safe place and slowly build up out of your comfort zone, no matter how long it takes, its worth it. To start living again, rather than just giving up and distracting yourself with constant superficial gratification. 
Also another tip or advice: be aware of who you're surrounding yourself with. The people that you have in your social circle can have an effect on your mental health, if they are stressing you out or hold no positive influence over your life - just be aware of the hold it may have on you. Put yourself first and come back when you're ready. And if you feel like you have to cut people off for a while or permanently, I would say do it. Protect your spiritual energy. And, for yourself, be aware of what you're putting out energy wise and the influence you have on others. It can effect the people you love and care about.
As cliché as it sounds life does get better. I have changed for the better, I feel more 'grown up' and ready to handle new responsibilities. I am more aware of my boundaries and my limitations with others. I can forgive and let go. I'm content not going back to people who have hurt me or who I have hurt. Sometimes its just for the best. I take accountability of my own self too and where I have personally gone wrong. Knowing which areas I need to grow in is important for self growth. No individual is perfect, and at some point we do hurt others or get hurt ourselves. I am grateful that I have the ability to learn from my own personal mistakes and can avoid having an victim complex.
Cool changes for this year: I'm planning to get a car soon. I've made a bucket list for 2021 and things I want to do/explore. Camping. Holiday. Keep learning languages. Date ideas. Other fun activities. Try a different job to build experience. Maybe get a tattoo? also, also, figuring out uni stuff for second year :)<3 
To anyone else that is struggling with mental health or is not feeling the best, I believe in you. I hope you get better, there are going to be good days and bad days for everyone. Healing is not linear, so treat yourself with kindess and love. I can't imagine what youre going through but I can understand. You're brave, strong and Ily. Thank you for reading <3
Helpful educational youtube links for anxiety and dp/dr: 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPyzPH8sB2A (fight, flight, freeze)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hIb7QwFhcYg (narcissist response where you fight, flight, freeze) 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4ZdEDEUidDg (talking about dp/dr recovery)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1GCjggflEU (dpdr explained)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PMeMxO8yz8 (causes of dissociation)
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brucewayneargento-moved · 3 years ago
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To All My Fathers (Chapter 1)
Summary: Damian Wayne, a fourteen year old with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, goes onto a road trip with the four men who shaped him as a person before his bone marrow transplant.
Fic also avaliable on FF.net
Damian had definitely decided he would not wear a fanny pack.
It didn't matter that it was the most convenient and comfortable way to take a chemo pump iv from place to place. He'll much rather attract attention with a backpack connected to a pump than to regress back to the eighties in the most horrendous fashion. Sure he might pick up unwanted attention from strangers but A) He could always stare at them back; B) He was past the time to care and C) He already didn't have eyebrows so that was kind of a moot point.
The boy was currently seated at the med bed of the 666 room. (Drake had made several jokes about it, which Damian didn't mind and in fact encouraged, because with his diagnosis came a morbid sense of humor and he was also glad at least one person still treated him like a human being). He was practicing violin while he could still hold it and also enjoying the fact that he was wearing actual comfortable clothes and not a paper robe that made his autism completely and utterly fucking lose it.
Some kids from the other rooms had come to see him perform and Damian loved to have an audience. Because he had an ego, not as much and not as evil as people usually thought, but still. Most of them were children younger than ten who just needed some entertainment that wasn't a superhero.
"This was Ode To Joy by Bethoveen," Damian explained. The three children around him applauded. When they stopped he could still hear hands clapping, he looked up and his eyes met his father's.
Bruce came closer to him and the kids left after being called by a nurse. Boy and man looked at each other for a few seconds.
"Are you ready?" Bruce finally asked
Damian might have sounded insane if he said it outloud, but his father and Jon were very similar.
The blue eyes, the black hair and the fact that they both cried before or after entering a room with Damian in it, bonus points if he was being stabbed with a needle right at that moment, then you could see their eyes getting crystalized almost in slow motion.
And it's not like Damian was annoyed by their emotions as one might have thought, it was more of a...sting, (man being stabbed with a needle on a daily basis was really taking a toll on him, wasn't it?) like, something that hurt but it wasn't enough for him to do anything about it more than to grit his teeth and power through it.
Numbness was apparently a common thing among patients. But Damian thought of himself as many stuff, but common wasn't one of them
And perhaps his ego was the only thing keeping him optimistic, perhaps thinking that he was too special to die alone in a hospital room was what made him stronger against the whole GvHD thing.
Leslie had told him that he was lucky to find a donor that was relatively near, in Kansas nonetheless, home of Superman and. So now he had just to keep up with the program: L-asparaginase,dexamethasone and vincristine several times a day and wait.
Or at least that was the original plan.
"Yes." he finally answered, standing up.
When all you receive in your life is gaslighting, you don't even notice the medical gaslighting.
Maybe it was the whole "being indoctrinated since birth by an ecoterrorist death cult" thing but his ability to exercise his free will hadn't been particularly developed.
The bruises? Vigilante stuff. The fever? Probably the flu. Weight loss? Maybe he had gotten a growth spurt that just made him seem thinner…He had to throw up blood to even be admitted into a hospital.
The Wayne-Head name allowed him the finest care probably ever known to man. "Nepotism: where you can die comfortably" that was an actual thing he had said while high on sedatives. He could only imagine his mother's face upon hearing it.
When he woke up both his parents were there. Damian could immediately tell something was wrong. His father was crying and his mother was stoic.
"Oh, ok, so I'm dying" He said, grabbing their attention. Both Talia and Bruce turn to look at him. Damian tried to sit and noticed his arm was cranked to an IV. "Oh, I'm actually dying."
"Do not speak like that." His mother warned him with a threatening voice. Bruce kept quiet but still with a face wet with tears.
Next to them there was a third person. She was an older woman with gray hair and glasses. Doctor Thompkins, his father's godmother. She went over to the medbed and sat on the foot. Damian crossed his arms. She was a smart woman but had the annoying habit of treating him like a perpetual child. Probably the closest thing he had to an actual grandmother.
"Damian," she fixed her glasses and looked at the clipboard she was holding. "Your blood count is in the 200.000 white cells."
Damian's eyes slightly widened, which covertly hid how much of a gut punch he just received.
"I can't have leukemia," he simply stated. There was a slight pained sound coming from his father's mouth which made Damian look him in the eye…that's how he knew it was true.
He started to grin which turned into a giggle which turned into a laugh.
Bruce and Talia looked at him with worry.
"Denial is very common," Leslie stated, trying to remain calm and also sooth Damian up. The teen kept laughing and then stopped to talk.
He had tears in his eyes. "I mean... so much for being an eugenics frankenstein monster, I've failed at even that."
The rest of that afternoon was a blur for him. Except for the being stabbed with needles on his spine parts, that one he remembered very well. Since he had such a high tolerance for pain, the fact that he was casually hurt was news to him.
Of course Dick had been the first one to enter the room.
Damian had hoped that he wasn't but after all it made sense that he did, he was his Robin. He could imagine him punching a wall and screaming when he heard the news. That mental image didn't upset him at all, clearly.
Damian was pretending to watch TV where his oldest brother entered the scene. He had prepared what he was going to say. How he was okay and how he was too stubborn to die anyways. But all of that went to hell when Dick entered the room and immediately ran up to hug him.
All of the walls he had been building up until now feel down hard. Damian just had to press his head against Dick's shoulder for the tears to start running.
"I want a falafel."
They were in the hospital room after a particularly hard session of chemo. His brother was on a chair in front of him reading a book and not looking at him.
"You just threw up on my shoe," he reminded Damian.
"I'm here for a good time, not a long time"
Dick rolled his eyes, now accustomed to the fact that his sibling had developed a morbid sense of humor because of his condition. Right at that moment the door opened and Doctor Thompkins entered the room.
"How are we?" She asked.
"Great." Both responded almost robotically. Damian gagged.
"I wanted to talk to you, Dick, about the bone marrow transplant."
"Why not talk to me?" Damian intervened. "I'm the one whose blood isn't working."
"Because you're still a child," Dick answered as a matter of fact. And despite everything he was glad his older brother at least now had the courtesy of treating him like he had always done. "What's the prognosis, doc?"
"We're considering the umbilical cord transfusion." Leslie explained. "But you will have to ask my godson first.
"Why would he need to...wait...Selina's pregnant?!" Damian asked but then he threw up again. "That wasn't meant to signify my feelings on the matter."
Leslie continued. "But that will still take a few months and...I'm afraid we don't have that much time."
Damian pretended to gag and looked down at the bucket, all to avoid looking at Dick's face.
"But the good news is that we found a match."
Damian hadn't even had time to think about that sentence before he blurted it out, but now it was there, out in the open. For everyone to hear.
"I want to have children."
Everyone being an hyperbole since Alfred was the one who was actually there. His father had to go to patrol so the butler had the night shift to take care of Damian while at the hospital to which the boy was appreciative of. Except for this moment when he was mentally slapping himself for letting on too much. Side effects of being raised to be a killing machine.
"I...did not know that." Alfred admitted. Up to twelve seconds ago he had been standing up listing the symptoms of chemo at Damian's request since he didn't trust Leslie to do it without sugarcoating it and his father might burst into tears in an attempt to do so. Damian had been listening attentively before Alfred mentioned that it was possible that he might wind up being infertile.
The boy simply turned around to the other side of the bed and sighed as tears left his eyes.
Dear Damian
I could not be more content that you are receiving the transplant that you so much need. I wish I could accompany you on the journey to Kansas, but sadly Lady Talia needs me to look out after Bialya...I wish you nothing but a rapid recovery. I implore you to remember that you are not alone in this, to remember that there is a plethora of people that adore you with all of their souls and that you will always have their help. Even when you do not want it.
Best Wishes
Ravi.
Damian looked at Alfred who glanced at him for a nanosecond in the mirror of the car. He knew he was the most active ally he had in this game. Since he not only advocated to his father for this trip to be possible but he also was the only person to always show his compassion in spite of if he actually deserved it or not. Bruce was next to him while Richard sat next to Damian and assesed his condition.
They stayed in comfortable silence in the car with only the sound of "dad music" on the radio for background noise. Damian allowed himself to close his eyes and to feel the soothing bounce of the car against the pavement on his skin...
They stopped suddenly after a while and Damian opened his eyes, he frowned in confusion as Alfred parked the car in front of the airport.
"What are we doing here?" he asked curiously.
Alfred turned around to look at him. "Your father , Master Richard and I thought It'll be a good idea to fly in a friend of yours."
Damian's frown deepened. "A friend?"
Suddenly a tap was heard on the window. They both turned around to look at the front window. It was being slightly knocked on it by a man with a white cane and a bald head who was smiling at them.
"Ravi?" Damian rubbed his eyes and felt them watering up.
Damian knew that he could never make up to Ravi for being responsible for losing his vision. And he also knew that in spite of that the man would still love him unconditionally.
That could be proven easily by the letters that he had written to him when he found out about his diagnosis…
All his father figures were here, suddenly he felt an internal strength he hadn't felt in a while.
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omgsquee2001 · 4 years ago
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Pirate Queen - Luffy’s Ending
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~Luffy’s POV~
I paced on the deck of the Moby dick, the rest of my crew were sitting on benches, waiting for Law to come out and tell us the [Y/N] would be okay. Marco and Ace sat with my friends. 
“Luffy, stop pacing will you? You’re going to wear a hole into the deck.” Ace scolded. I frowned and looked at my older brother. 
“But I can’t! I need to see that she is okay.” I said. It was my fault she was in this state in the first place. If I had only stayed with her the day she saw that ship. Then maybe I could have kept Zeo from coming and taking her. I liked [Y/N], more than a friend. I had this weird feeling whenever I was around her. My stomach would hurt and my heart felt like it was doing backflips. I went to Chopper to see what was wrong with me, and he said that I was in love. I liked the idea of being in love with [Y/N]. A few days after Chopper told me I was in love, I confessed to [Y/N], and she accepted my feelings, and we were now together. My heart was ripped in two when she was taken. Nami sighed and walked over, she placed her hand on my shoulder, causing me to halt my actions of pacing. She gave me a kind smile.
“Luffy, she’ll be fine. Law’s a good doctor. He’ll be able to save her.” She said. Just then, Law walked up and on the deck, holding an unconscious [Y/N] in his arms. My eyes widened. Law looked at us. 
“She needs rest. You can see her when I lay her down,” He said. He walked into the infirmary and lay her on one of the beds. I got up and rushed over. Law set a stool down next to her bed, allowing me to sit next to her. I sat down, and took her hand. “She might have nervous breakdowns and nightmares from what she had to endure,” I looked up at Law. “Take care of her, Strawhat-ya. She’s special.” He said. I nodded, taking her hand and bringing it to my lips. 
“You bet I will, Tra-guy,” I smiled up at him. “And thank you,” Law nodded, leaving and closing the door. I sighed, looking at [Y/N]’s calm, sleeping face. “Wake up soon, [Y/N], you still need to be my Pirate Queen.” I said quietly. 
________________________________________________________________________________
~[Y/N’s POV~
Darkness.
That was all I saw. One minute I saw my friends and my family standing before me and the Celestial Dragon, the next, I saw only darkness. I then remembered being held gently in the arms of someone I knew. Their body was warm and comforting. It had to be Ace or Marco. They were the only ones who produced fire, so their bodies were constantly warm no matter what. It had always sparked envy in the crew when they docked on winter islands. The next thing I knew, I was laying on something soft. The sounds of a creaking ship and the smell of disinfectant filled my nostrils. I scrunched up my nose, and opened my eyes, letting out a groan. Once my vision became clear, I saw that I was in a wooden room, laying on a bed. The white sheets covered my pajama clad body. I was wearing my favorite lavender colored nightgown. I felt some pressure on the side of my bed, and I looked over. I smiled and tears formed in my eyes. There, sitting on a stool next to my bed, was my lover, Luffy. I squeezed his hand. Luffy jolted up, and squinted, looking at me. His eyes widened and he held my hand tighter. 
"[Y-Y/N], you're finally awake!" He shouted.  I let out a sob mixed with a laugh as I reached out my hand for him. He took my hand into his warmer and larger one, kissing the back of my hand. He reached out his other hand and cupped my cheek, gently rubbing his thumb against it. I leaned into it and smiled up at him. Before I had been taken, I had slowly fallen in love with the rubbery and childish Captain of the Straw-Hat Pirates, and he had slowly fallen in love with me, and thus a happy and lovely relationship blossomed. 
“I’m so happy you’re alright. Tra-guy barley managed to save you.” He said, tears formed in his eyes. I smiled and brushed the tears away as they fell, cupping his cheek.
“Don’t count me out just yet, My Love,” I said softly. Luffy chuckled and brought me in for a tender kiss. When I pulled away, my eyes looked around the room. “Where’s Father and the others?” I asked. Luffy smiled.
“They’re all here, on the Moby Dick. They’ve been anxiously waiting for you to wake up.” He said.
“May I see them? With the Captain's permission, of course.” I said. Luffy smirked and put a hand to his chin in mock thought. 
“Hmm, give the Captain some much needed cuddles and he might consider letting you see your friends and family.” He said. I giggled and gently moved over, being careful not to hurt myself any further. Luffy placed his hat on the stool and crawled into the bed with me, gently wrapping his arms around me, bringing me closer to him. I sighed in content. Luffy started stroking my hair. 
“I missed you so much,” I said quietly. Luffy looked down at me, he saw the far away look in my eyes and frowned. “When I was chained to those walls, the Celestial Dragon told me that no one was coming to rescue me. I knew he was wrong. I knew you would come for me, but each day he brought my hope down,” tears started to escape my [e/c] eyes. “I-I was so scared.” I said, letting out shaky breaths. Luffy tilted my head up to meet his gaze. 
“Hey,” he said, bringing me into another gentle kiss. My breathing became even, slowing down. He pulled back, staring into my eyes with love. He wiped away the tears. “I promise you, I will never let anything happen to you. I will never let anyone take you away, not since I just got you back.” He said. He could tell that I wanted to see my friends and family, so he kissed my forehead, nuzzling into my hair, breathing in my scent. 
“Am I all clear to see my family and friends now?” I asked, glancing up at him. Luffy chuckled and nodded, helping me sit up. He sat up and put his hat back on. He took my hand, and opened the door. My vision was blinded by the bright light of the sun. I covered my eyes with my hand, squinting. Luffy placed his arm around my shoulders, leading me to where my friends and family were. My eyes widened and tears filled them. There, sitting in his throne, sat my father. His eyes met mine and he smiled, tears of his own falling. He opened his large arms. Luffy let go of me, and I raced towards my father and jumping into his arms. Our laughter mixed as we embraced each other, tears of happiness falling. Father sighed and he pulled away, holding me in his large hands. I sat in his palm.
“My daughter, I am so happy to see you.” He said. I smiled, but then frowned as tears fell from his eyes. I stood up and pressed my hand against his cheek.
“Father, why are you crying?” I asked, worried. Father brushed his tears away, but they were replaced by more.
“I-I’m crying because I feel like a terrible father.” He cried. My eye brows furrowed.
“A terrible father?” I asked. He nodded.
“W-when your mother died, I-I promised I would p-protect you with my life. I-I failed at that when I lost you at sea. T-then I find you beaten and starved half to death. P-please, forgive me, [Y/N].”  Father sobbed. I smiled and kissed his nose.
“Oh father, there is nothing to forgive,” I said. He looked at me in surprise, his tears still falling but slowly now. “You would have had no idea where I was, if not for Zeo giving Luffy my location. It’s not like the World Government would have just told you where I was,” I gave him a closed eyed smile. “Besides, I knew you would come for me.” I said. Father smiled and closed his eyes. He opened them and the tears stopped falling.
“You are so much like your mother. You iron strong will, your loving heart and most of all, your sun bright soul that is willing to forgive anyone, only if they deserve it,”  he said. He gently lowered me to the ground, and I joined Luffy, intertwining our fingers. Whitebeard smiled at the happy couple as Luffy kissed the side of my head. He looked out across the people gathered on the Moby Dick. “Now, let us have a feast to celebrate my daughter’s recovery and the alliance of the Heart and Straw-Hat Pirates with the Whitebeard Crew!” Father shouted. My eyes widened and I looked behind me. There stood Law, Sanji and Zoro. Nami and Robin stood with their ally and crew members. I smiled and rushed over, giving each of them a hug. Nami and Robin pulled me into a hug.
“It's good to see you, Tiger Lily.” Nami said. I giggled.
~Later That Night~
I laughed as Izo and Jozou had a drinking contest with Marco, Ace and Zoro. Nami had joined, only because there was Belli involved. I had changed out of my nightgown and into a red, off the shoulder dress. My hair had been pulled back and into a beautiful French braid updo, courtesy of Nami and Robin. Lufffy sat next to me, his arm wrapped around my bare shoulders. He smiled down at me.
“You can choose, you know.” He said. I looked at him, confused.
“Huh?” I asked. Luffy gestured to the Whitebeard and Heart crews.
“You can choose to go or stay with them,” he set down his meat and wrapped his arms around my waist and kissed my shoulder. “Or you can leave with me and the Straw-Hats.” He said. I smiled and cupped his cheek, bringing him into another passionate kiss. We pulled away.
“I think I’ll leave with you and your crew. It’s where I belong,” I said, looking out across the activities. I then looked back at Luffy, smiling. “Besides,” I said, tracing the scar on Luffy’s chest. “You still need to become the Pirate King, and I, your Pirate Queen.” I said, smiling. 
The next morning, with a heavy heart, I said goodbye to my friends and family. Ace, Marco and Pops waved down at me.
"Bye [Y/N]! See you some other time!" Ace shouted. Luffy smiled as he stood next to me, his arm wrapped around my waist. Luffy looked up at Pops. 
“Hey old man,” he shouted. “You just wait! I’m going to become King of the Pirates and [Y/N] will become my Queen!” Luffy shouted. Pops laughed. 
“I’ll be looking for that in the newspapers. Take care, my daughter. May our paths cross again!” Pops shouted. I laughed as Luffy, the Straw-Hat crew and I all waved to my Father and his crew. 
//I apologize for the long wait guys. I’ve been really busy with online college and haven't really gotten the chance to update in a while. Here’s Luffy’s Ending. Next up will be: Something to Fight For; Zoro’s Ending//
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marleahsblogs · 3 years ago
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✨ Internet Safety ✨
For our generation today, the internet is probably the safest place to be in. People can be whoever they want, express whatever they want, and enjoy themselves however they want. I must admit, I would also say that I couldn’t live without the internet. Internet is just the solution to every problem, right? Now, we can even earn money in the comfort of our rooms with the help of the internet. Should we spend hours travelling just to buy stuff? Nah, we got the internet! With just several clicks we can already make an order and just wait on our couch to receive it. Oh no, COVID-19 ruled the world! No worries, we are backed up by the internet. Online classes, online transactions, online dating. You name it. The internet is there for us, or is it? Is it our safe haven?
We have put so much trust in the internet, but we didn’t know it can also be our biggest predator. Online transactions were fun until you got scammed and lost all your money. Online dating them feel loved until the person they were talking to is a catfish. Streaming online made him famous and rich, until his account got hacked. And there are still millions of stories out there that should awake us from believing that the internet is the safest thing in the world.
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Below are some possible dangers you could encounter online.
1. Cyberbullying
I’m sure many of you have heard of this. But even though we are fully aware of it, it is still one of the major problems until now. As we casually scroll in our social media feeds, it is already normal for us to see people making fun of or “bashing” other people. It became so prevalent that we could call it a normal thing. According to UNICEF (2019), one in three young people has said that they have been a victim of cyberbullying and that it affected almost half of the Filipino children aged 13-17. We need to know that even a single word like “tanga” or “bobo” we see in our social media platforms and online gaming worlds could affect or traumatize us greatly.
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2. Data Being Stolen
Some people nowadays are getting better at doing this. They can steal your money from your accounts, apply for a loan or credit card using your name, or sell your information to an online criminal as well. The hidden website is packed with criminals who purchase and sell stolen personal data. If your data is stolen, you can experience spam attacks. But most of these data thefts try to steal sensitive information, such as your credit card or personal information to commit identity theft.
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3. Exposure to Inappropriate Material
Another risk especially for children and teenagers are exposure to inappropriate materials that are sexual, hateful, or violent. The chance and probability for children to look at anything inappropriate rely on how much they do online as they get more active online at a younger age. Whether it's a free-time graphic pop-up commercial, children's cartoon characters in adult circumstances or a self-harm forum, an innocent search might expose these children to contents that make them feel puzzled and angry. Some of the inappropriate content includes pornographic material, content containing swearing, sites that encourage racism, violence, terrorism, or even suicide, sexism sites, or gambling sites, and so on.
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Based on my own experiences, here are some tips I would like to share to you to look after your privacy and secure your internet safety:
1. Keep your software up-to-date
Not only will you get a better program experience, but you will also be able to iron out your security issues. But the reason why you must keep it updated is that hackers are fast enough to become aware of certain software’s vulnerabilities, thus could harm your computer system and personal data. If you avoid doing these updates, you are bound to face persistent bugs, data loss, malware infection, and of course security issues.
2. Update your passwords
Why do we need to constantly change our passwords? So that we can reduce the risk of other people having access to our accounts, thus corrupt our personal data. Using strong passwords is necessary for us to prove our identity in our accounts, websites, or our computer itself (Wright, 2021). My tip in creating passwords is random characters with a symbol, number, and at least one capital letter. The reason for this is that using weak passwords, such as patterns of letters and numbers, or simply your name and some important date you know can cause hackers to guess and open your account, hence impersonate you to commit fraud and other crimes.
3. Use two-factor authorization
Familiar with this term? Yes, a two-factor authorization (2FA) is an extra step to keep your accounts more secure and avoid getting hacked by others. One of the most common 2FA methods is one-time codes sent through SMS or email, authenticator apps such as Google Authenticator, and security keys such as U2F tokens (Drozhzhin, 2018). This one for me is the best 2FA authorization because only your private key will confirm your login. If someone will try to log in to your account with the wrong security key, they will not be granted access to your account. So, there you go. A series of two-factor authorizations that will secure your accounts the best way possible. You’re welcome!
4. Be careful what you click on
Have you heard of phishers? They are attackers that send a fraudulent message designed to trick and victimize us into revealing sensitive information to them. As scary as it sounds, we need to be aware of what we click on to avoid experiencing this. Phishing is usually done in an email when they get your email address from somewhere. These phishers try to create a fake website to trick you into typing in your personal information. It’s much easier for them to hack our accounts this way. To avoid this, you can check the URL’s legitimacy by using the Google Transparency Report or simply avoid suspicious emails which require your personal information. Think before you click!
5. Back-up your data
Data back-up and recovery has many advantages. Some of these are protecting and saving your data, provides ease of management, ensures accurate information of your data, quick access to data, scalability, and such (Becker, 2021). There are many other ways to back up your data, but here’s a simple way to manually back up your data in your phone is to open your phone’s settings app, tap system and click backup or search backup in your settings app, then tap back-up now. It’s that simple.
6. Set up notifications for your most important bank accounts
As online bank account holders, it is our responsibility to making sure our accounts are protected. Online accounts are one of the easy targets of hackers to whisk away our money with just a couple of keystrokes. To safeguard our online banking, we may choose an industrial-standard security bank or credit union that utilizes text or e-mail warnings avoids the use of public Wi-Fi access and periodically changes your password.
7. Protect your personal information
This might be difficult for those who like to express themselves on social media, but we must protect our personal identity to avoid any sort of online threats. To protect our identity, we must limit the amount of personal information we share or provide. We shouldn't share or provide this information online: exact home address, your place and schedules of classes or work, birthday, cellphone number, and most importantly our passwords or account information. Another tip is to write down in a small notebook all your passwords and keep them safe in a secure place away from your computer.
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8. Use parental controls and stay present
With the pandemic going on right now, parents should be extra careful of what their children see and hear about themselves and who they encounter on the internet. To protect your children from internet risks, talk to them frequently, utilize tools to safeguard them and watch out for their work. Monitor the time of your child, especially the younger ones, about when and how long they stay online. Keep your computer at a central location in your house, where it's easy to watch what your children do and look at online. You may configure them for mobile devices to forget Wi-Fi passcodes for your kids not to go online without knowledge. Review privacy and location settings, parental control and use secure browsers, apps, search engines and YouTube search settings. Lastly, limit camera and video to prevent your children from accidentally taking photos or videos of themselves or others.
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The internet does not usually hurt us unless we react to suspect material and websites. The first reason you don't know what you're doing is because of internet damage. Secondly, you may react or click on links such as appealing advertisements, infected software and communications when you have other forces. To ensure internet safety, just remember those tips above and these three things: secure your network, be responsible, and make the internet child-safe.
References:
Becker, D. (2021). 6 Advantages of Data Backup and Recovery. IT Central Station. Retrieved from https://www.itcentralstation.com/articles/6-advantages-of-data-backup-and-recovery
Drozhzhin, A. (2018). SMS-based two-factor authentication is not safe — consider these alternative 2FA methods instead. Kaspersky Daily. Retrieved from https://www.kaspersky.com/blog/2fa-practical-guide/24219/
Wright, J. (2021). Why Is it Important to Change Your Password? Small Business Chron. Retrieved from https://smallbusiness.chron.com/
Online bullying remains prevalent in the Philippines, other countries (2019). Unicef Philippines. Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/philippines/press-releases/online-bullying-remains-prevalent-philippines-other-countries
25 Best Internet Safety Tips for Every Situation (2021). The Neeva Team. Retrieved from https://neeva.com/learn/25-best-internet-safety-tips-for-every-situation
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flightofaqrow · 4 years ago
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Some Reminders
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This is nothing new, I’ve just been wanting to say some things altogether and on the dash for awhile, so here we go!
Personal blogs and non-mutuals are welcome to follow and interact! 
--- DO!: reblog single posts, drabbles, headcanons; send asks and drabble requests; engage with meta; like things to your heart’s content
--- DON’T: reblog threads involving other muns without their permission, ask to thread if we are not mutuals, engage with 18+ content if you are not 18+.
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I generally don’t follow back multifandom blogs to spare my dash, but that it doesn’t mean I’m not interested - this is the exception to the mutuals only threading. You are free to ask about interest and I will let you know! 
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I am wholly unbothered by people reblogging aesthetics/musings/memes from me. I don’t get possessive of my portrayal that way. If you’re another Qrow blog, I mostly sit back like HELL YEAH, IM GLAD YOU AGREE. If you’re not, I care even less. I do like reblog karma for memes, but I don’t enforce it at all.
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This muse is grayromantic bisexual with a female lean, and, aside from small windows of time during his Beacon days and after some recovery in Volume 7, he is romance repulsed. Please be aware of this if you’re interested in shipping with him. Friends with benefits means friends with benefits. He may come around later, but he is not secretly or subconsciously going to be in love in the meantime, please don’t joke about it with me. And expect angst.
- By default I also play him:
-- NOT involved in any STRQ polyships
-- As if his partner at Beacon was Raven 
----- (But I am willing to write threads otherwise)
-- Having a siblingship dynamic with Summer 
----- (unless you’re @whytrose​)
----- (I am open to one-sided crush on Summer’s part if you really wanna hurt like that ig)
-- Any sexual/romantic interest he has in Tai is not until their middle age years.
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I still currently consider myself low activity. I’m crazy busy at work these days and braindead even when I do have time. It is not uncommon for my turnaround time to be in the months range right now. Yes, I prioritize easy, perhaps fluffier threads, and threads with people I talk to most ooc because they get me all excitable. It does not mean I only write with those people now, or that I’ve lost interest in my other threads. I will let you know and/or post the updated tracker if I ever do. 
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Mutuals can ask for my discord once we get to know each other. I ask that you please respect my status for it. I’ve been bad about actually switching it lately, but I’m gonna try and get back into that once I at least have more weekends free again.
Thank you for your attention ♡
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vannahfanfics · 4 years ago
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Off the Beaten Path
Category: Romantic Fluff
Fandom: My Hero Academia
Characters: Momo Yaoyorozu, Yosetsu Awase
I was going to work on other request stuff, but I was reaaaally feeling Momo x Awase lately and because of finals I wasn’t able to participate in @bnhabookclub‘s Provisional License Exam event, so… Even though it’s a little late, here’s a MomoWase story for the prompt “You’re really pretty”!
Momo’s vertebrae decompressed with a series of satisfying pops as she stretched her hands over her head and slowly bent back into a forty-five-degree angle. With a contented hum, she held the position for several seconds to ensure her lower back muscles were stretched properly before straightening back up and dropping her arms back to her sides. She did some leg stretches, priming her femoral and tibular muscles for exercise, before standing and planting her hands on her hips to admire the lovely Saturday morning. It was about nine-thirty, pleasantly warm with a consistent cooling breeze, and plenty of cloud cover to protect her from the worst of the burning sun. The birds were chirping. Car engines hummed in the distance. The air smelled sweetly of the various floral fragrances spilling out from the dormitory’s landscaping.
Really, could she have asked for a better morning to go jogging?
She ensured that her laces were tied properly before hopping down the steps of the porch, hitting the concrete pathway in a medium-paced jog. Her arms pumped at her sides as her legs kicked back in series, and she kept her breathing in a steady rhythm to ensure maximum stamina. She was determined to break her mile record today- under nine minutes. Momo wasn’t the most agile or athletic of the students in her class, but she could still attain her little victories here and there. I can do it!
There was a walking track not far from the dormitory that was always open to students and instructors. Momo jogged there in no time at all, and once she trotted through the open gate and greeted the security guard who moderated the comings and goings, she paused to take a swig of water. She took out her phone to ready her timer and then secured it to the plastic holder at her waist. The jaunt there had warmed up her body nicely, so she was feeling quite good when she walked down to the walking track proper. The spongey synthetic rubber-like material bowed slightly under her steps. U.A. spared no expense in any aspect of their campus, so Momo didn’t doubt that the material was of the highest quality and scientifically designed the erase almost all impact damage to the joints. She made a mental note to do some research into its chemical composition; one never knew when the material could come in handy.
“Right then! Nine minutes or less!” she crowed and started her timer, then took off down the track.
Most people preferred to listen to music while running, but not Momo. There was something cathartic to her about the natural world. The walking track doubled as a small nature park, landscaped professionally with shady hardwoods and flowering bushes. Momo usually ran at this time because the animal activity peaked mid-morning; the tree boughs were alive with dozens of birdsongs, melding together in one harmonious concerto. Bumblebees bobbled alongside the path, flying from one flower to the next to gather the succulent nectar. They were joined by a colorful assortment of butterflies, which elegantly flitted along with not much care of their rounder, fatter cousins. The park had a healthy population of squirrels, as well, which would scramble down from the trees to feast on discarded acorns only to fling themselves back up the trunks when Momo came jogging along. They would peer at her with beady black eyes from the boughs and would only descend back to their nutty buffet once she was rounding the corner of the track ahead.
A third of a way into the mile Momo checked her timer. Two minutes and thirty seconds! I’m making great time! She thought jovially and replaced the phone to its holster. She swept the back of her hand across her forehead to flick away the beads of sweat that were accumulating there. A few of her fluffy black strands had fallen out of her bun; she always had possessed impossibly thick hair, and it seemed like it absorbed all the heat from the atmosphere when she was exercising. Just as she was sucking a little more water from her sports bottle, she spotted someone curled up off to the side of the track a few yards ahead. Oh no! Maybe they’re injured! She thought worriedly and sped up her pace a little.
“Hello? Can I help you?” she called out to them. They were seated on the other side of a park bench so she could not see their features very well, but she thought she spied a familiar patterned headband and spiky black hair.
“Yaoyorozu?” Sure enough, that was him.
“Awase!” She stuttered to a halt past the bench to find him smiling tersely and clutching at his ankle. He had his sneaker off and sock pulled down, and she hissed at the gnarly swelling that had enveloped the joint. “What happened?” she asked and crouched down in front of him.
“Well,” he said with a sheepish smile, “I kinda surprised a sleeping raccoon and she didn’t much appreciate it.” Momo blinked in confusion. A raccoon would be sleeping well off the path; what reason did he have to go tromping off into the underbrush? When she asked him, his face took on a carnation-pink hue and he mumbled, “I, uh, kinda had to take a leak, Yaoyorozu…” In turn, her face blazed with a rosy blush and she nodded excessively in understanding.
“Oh! Right! Of course!”
“A-anyway, while I was scramblin’ to get away from her, I tripped over the tree roots and twisted it tryin’ to catch myself.” Momo frowned as she situated herself on her knees, tapping her thighs to indicate for him to prop his foot on the pillowy surface. He leaned back on his hands and grunted before hefting up his leg. A string of curse words flew from his mouth as he quickly shifted his foot from the ground onto her lap. His shoulders sagged after the pain stopped streaming through his nerves and he stared at the swollen joint through lidded eyes. “Man, this is a pain. I look so uncool,” he muttered, almost to himself. Momo gave him a bright smile and shook her head.
“These things happen! Don’t beat yourself up over it.” He flushed again and looked away with a small pout, making her wonder if he didn’t intend to utter it aloud. That’s irrelevant. His ankle is terribly swollen. I hope he hasn’t torn a ligament or even broken anything! She thought worriedly. She had taken a few first-aid lessons from Recovery Girl for use in rescue training and missions, so with a few manipulations she would be able to get a clearer picture of what damage he had done. Only an x-ray and MRI would conclusively diagnose any injury, but it would be better for Momo to have a general idea so she could determine how she should proceed with moving him. “Awase, I’m going to manipulate your ankle to see what you could have damaged. I’ll be as gentle as I can, okay?”
“Yeah, yeah, do whatever you gotta do,” he grumbled, but glanced at her out of the corners of his eyes. Leaning down, she gently began prodding various places in his foot. She started on the top of his foot to see if he had damaged the tendons there.
“That hurt?”
“No.” She shifted to the lateral side of his foot, starting near the toes. “That doesn’t hurt eit- Shit! Shit! Ow!” He began to cry out once she began palpating the area near his ankle. There was both a tendon and some nerve endings there, so it could be that he either stretched the ligament or the nerves were reacting to the swelling. Still, it gave her a better picture of where the injury could be.
“Sorry, Awase.”
“S’Fine,” he huffed. His face had taken on a slight flush and sweat was dampening the bottom of his headband. He must be in a lot of pain…
“Do you know how it rolled?”
“Um… I think it rolled inward,” he answered uncertainly. Momo tutted and glanced back down at his foot. Given the method of injury, it could either be his Achilles or his peroneus brevis tendon… I’m hoping it’s the latter, because tearing his Achilles could put him in physical therapy for months! Tentatively, she grabbed the sole of his foot and pushed it upwards, flexing it such that it would stretch the muscles of his calf. He winced a little bit but did not yelp in pain like before, making Momo smile. “What? Was that a good thing?”
“Yes. It makes it very likely that you haven’t torn anything up too bad,” she responded. “Let’s see what this does, though,” she continued and pushed his foot inward. His back arched and he threw his head back with a howl of several very unsavory words, so Momo hastily ceased the flexion. He kept his head tipped back for a few seconds, chest heaving and fingers digging into the loamy soil, before he let out a long groan and wearily looked back to her.
“Fuck, that hurt.” When she apologized again, he frowned slightly and shrugged. “S’not your fault… I’m the one who tripped over myself like a dumbass. Nurse Yaoyorozu, do you have a diagnosis for me?” he asked with a teasing grin. She blushed brightly at the nickname and spluttered out a reply.
“O-Oh! Yes, I think so. I think you may have either injured or torn this tendon right here,” she stated and ran her fingertip ever-so-slightly along the lateral side of his foot, being careful not to apply any pressure and make his pain worse. He made a tsk sound and flexed his leg muscles experimentally, and the way his entire body tensed indicated to Momo that it would be difficult for him to walk. “We should get you to Recovery Girl. She has the proper machinery to tell for sure. I’ll text my classmates so they can send for someone to collect you. I’m sure they can get down the track just fi-”
“Ain’t necessary,” he grumped. His hand snapped up to wrap tightly around the metal arm of the bench, and he pushed himself off the ground with the other hand. He clumsily tucked his good leg under his body to get some leverage in standing up. Momo’s hands fluttered nervously around his injured foot.
“Awase! You shouldn’t move too much! Be careful not to bear any weight on this foot; I can help you to the entrance to the track, but we really should have someone get you from there so you don’t injure yourself further!” As gently as she could while moving fast, she placed his foot back down on the ground and scrambled up to grab him underneath his armpit and help him clumsily climb to his feet. Per Momo’s instructions, he refrained from moving his injured leg at all and just let it slide in the dirt and leaves as he hobbled to a standing position, but even just the contact with the ground made him hiss in agony. His arm wobbled precariously at it was forced to bear all his weight, and Momo saw that his knuckles were glaring white as he gripped the metal arm. “Here. Come to this tree,” she instructed him.
Yosetsu Awase was not by any means a big guy, but her breath still left her in an oof! as his full weight sunk against her. She slung his arm around her shoulders and supported him by the waist as she dragged him to the trunk of the nearest tree.
“How the tables have turned.” A curious “huh?” popped out of her and she looked down at him with wide eyes. He grinned wryly and explained, “Remember the summer training camp? I was haulin’ you around the woods like a sack of potatoes…” Her cheeks brightened as the blood rushed to them, and she looked away shyly.
“Oh… Yes. The circumstances are a little different here, though. You saved my life that night.” They reached the tree, and he reached out to brace a hand against the rough trunk before leaning away from her, spinning on his good foot to flop his back into the woody surface. He gave her a wry smirk.
“Hey, you never know. You coulda saved my life this morning. I coulda been out here, all alone, and dragged off by some wolves.” Momo snorted at his obvious joking.
“Awase, there are no wolves out here.”
“How do you know? Just because you haven’t seen ‘em don’t mean they don’t exist.” His relentless joshing had her giddy, and she held her hand up to her mouth as she began to giggle.
“You’re too much. Seriously, though, walking a third of a mile in your condition, even with my help, will take us half the day. I’ll send for someone,” she told him through little laughs and pulled out her phone. She quirked an eyebrow when she noticed her timer had just hit exactly nine minutes. More important things to tend to than my record, she thought and swiped out of the app. She typed up a quick message in their class group chat and sent it before returning her phone to the waist holster. “I just sent for help. They’re telling Mr. Aizawa and…” Her words trailed off as she looked at him. He was staring at her with a lidded, heated gaze and this little smile on his face that made butterflies take off in her stomach. “I…” she murmured incoherently when his hand reached out to gently cup her cheek, and she compulsively straightened up- and leaned slightly into the touch.
“You’re really pretty.” Momo had never heard a tone so full of… endearing admiration. As soon as his hand met her cheek and he uttered the words, his eyes widened, as if he realized he had actually done so instead of it being in his head. His face flushed red and he went to drop his hand, sputtering out an apology, but Momo pinned it to her face with both of her own.
“No! Don’t apologize!” she cried and took a few unsteady steps forward. Now self-conscious herself, she flushed as well and looked timidly down at her sneakers. “I-I… No one’s ever called me pretty before…” she admitted meekly. She peered up at him through her lashes to find him wearing an incredulous look.
“Really? But you’re fucking beautiful.” His use of a curse word only made the compliment more impactful, and her face grew unbearably hot as she smiled blissfully. She squirmed a little, knowing she was beginning to sweat a little against his hand cupping her face, but unwilling to let it go.
“W-well… Mina says that I’m so intelligent that boys find it intimidating,” she chuckled diffidently. He snorted in laughter and leaned back against the trunk with an amused smirk.
“You? Intimidating? No offense, but you’re about as intimidating as a wet kitten.” She let out an affronted gasp and went to glare at him, but the sultry smirk on his face made all opposition die in her throat. “Guess that’s good for me that they think so,” he said in a low voice, and she yelped as he grabbed her arm and tugged her forward. There was a slight incline in the ground, so she stumbled all the way to the tree and landed against his body with one hand splaying over his chest. The other was now being gripped tightly, and he brought it to his mouth to lay a lingering kiss to the top of her hand. How prince-like… she thought faintly. “I don’t think I could stand for having competition.” The smirk he shot her wasn’t prince-like at all, rather channeling all the devilish and playful energy of a rogue. Like a princess ensnared by his handsome charms, she could only stare owlishly at him with painfully pink cheeks. His hand dropped hers, letting it land on his shoulder, before cupping her face again and threading his fingertips into the black strands that had fallen from her bun. “Yaoyao-”
“Momo,” she interrupted quickly. She then flushed, realizing how rude it had been to do so. “C-call me Momo. Please.” He snorted slightly and his smirk widened.
“Momo,” he corrected poignantly. “Thanks for saving me today.” She was about to assert once more that it really wasn’t anything like that night, but he took the opportunity to interrupt her. He leaned forward to envelop her mouth in a searing kiss. She inhaled sharply through her nose as her breath was all but stolen from her. Whatever response she had on her tongue descended into fog, as her mind hazed until all she could focus on was the movement of his lips against hers. He lit a fire over her body as his hands roamed her curves, finally settling with a consistent blaze at the small of her back. Very distantly the thought bloomed that this was her first kiss and that she had to tell Mina about it. From how good it felt, it was obviously a hell of a first kiss. She felt like she could get lost in the kiss, in him, forever.
They broke apart with startled jumps when they heard Katsuki and Eijirou screaming her name in the near distance. She began to flutter about nervously, fixing her sports bra and jogging pants despite the fact they were form-fitted and not rumpled at all, while he reclined back against the tree with a self-satisfied look.
“Was that your first kiss?”
“What? Yes- I mean, ugh- is that relevant right now?” she huffed with a dour glare that only made his grin widen. He let out a few chuckles as she pouted at him, totally embarrassed by his unbothered attitude, then gestured with a tilt of his head at the track. She whirled on her heel to find the two boys striding up with Recovery Girl’s robots holding a stretcher between them. Laughing nervously, she cheerfully called out to them and tried to seem inconspicuous as she ran up.
“Hey, guys! Thank you so much. I don’t think I could’ve gotten him back to the entrance by myself.”
“It’s no problem, Yaomomo!” Eijirou smiled kindly. Katsuki began to gripe, and without breaking eye contact with the girl, Eijirou elbowed him hard in the ribs.
“Ow, what the hell?! Ugh, fine, whatever! It’s not a big deal!” he yelled angrily and stalked over to the boy leaning up against the tree. “Come on, loser, the sooner your ass is on this stretcher, the sooner I can get back to weight training!” Momo frowned worriedly as Katsuki helped the injured boy back to his feet, but despite his harsh words, he was gentle in helping him limp the short distance to the stretcher.
“Are you coming back with us, Yaomomo?” Eijirou asked as the robots began to trundle off with their charge in tow. Katsuki stomped along ahead, yelling at his friend to hurry up.
“Oh! No, I would like to finish my run, I think…” she murmured, her gaze trailing off to the stretcher. She pushed past him to run after it a few paces, cupping her hands to her mouth. “Hey! Awa- I mean, Yosetsu!” He glanced up, a big grin splitting his face at her calling him by his given name. “Come running with me sometime!”
“Sure thing!” he called back and gave her a thumbs-up before flopping back down against the stretcher. Eijirou walked past her, wiggling his eyebrows suggestively and grinning, which made her flush pink as answer his unasked question. Momo waited until they had disappeared around the corner, then grabbed her phone to reset her timer to two-minutes and fifty seconds, the approximate time she had stumbled across Yosetsu on the track.
Hmm… Maybe I’ll go off the beaten path and aim for eight minutes! She resolved with a smile and put the phone back before taking off in a fast jog.
After all, the morning she had spent off the beaten path had already been quite interesting. She might as well keep the streak going! No doubt, there were rich rewards waiting at the end…
Enjoy this oneshot? Feel free to peruse my Table of Contents!
Tag List: @deliathedork @mhafandomman
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corona-extra-newsletter · 5 years ago
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3/16/20 corona extra: cracking open cold covid facts
Announcements & Thank Yous
Thank you to everyone who’s messaged me or sent asks! Specific thanks go to:
@hoothootmotherf-ckers​ for checking my math on California
@ainwesley for sending me a source for more up to date information about Norway
@sister-cna-reader​ for sending me a source for Washington State and for suggesting I put closure information in here
Several people for correcting the misinformation I had about Vietnamese tests being ~1 hour, this is not true unfortunately. I apologize for the mistake and will keep you posted on testing developments as they occur.
@halcyonhowl​ for sending me sources and tips on North Carolina
Twitter users @molly0xFFF and @goblinartificer for helping me with the Wordpress site
Wordpress staff for support
To several other anons for suggesting I include closure/group restriction information, positive news of the day, and numbers of recovered patients. I’ve implemented all of these as much as possible.
If you have reliable information from a good source that I don’t seem to have, please shoot me a message/ask/pigeon!
Places now included in the newsletter are: Montana, Vermont, Delaware, Maryland, Washington, DC, Greece, North Carolina, South Carolina, Connecticut, Alabama, Tennessee, Arizona, Ireland, and Switzerland. Please send an ask or a message if you would like a place included!
There is now good news at the end of the newsletter because this is a lot, all the time. Please take care of your mental health. I am being one with the numbers so you don’t have to follow every minute, panic-inducing development. Also, there is good news related to the pandemic!
I have started a website for the newsletter, which I may be able to update in real-time? Uncertain. At the very least it’ll be a mirror of the tumblr content so you can skip around and not be stuck in scrolling hell since these are all mega chonky. Find it at coronaextranewsletter.com. If you know me from fandom, please be chill about my meatspace identity. Please.
Asks are now on for this blog, which should help things. Please send asks to this blog in the future, thank you!
Just The Numbers
Case numbers
Total cases: 167,511 (13,903 new)
Total deaths: 6,606 (862 new)
Mortality rate: 3.9%
China: 81,077 (29 new) cases, 3,218 deaths (14 new)
Mortality rate: 3.97%
Excluding China: 86,434 cases (13,874 new) and 3388 deaths (848 new)
151 countries/territories reporting cases, 4 are new today including: Uzbekistan (4), Uruguay (4), Rwanda (5), and Seychelles (2)
Rwanda is confirming local transmission at this time
Italy is reporting over 24,000 cases (3500 new) with over 1800 deaths
Iran is reporting approx 15,000 cases with over 800 deaths
South Korea, Spain, and Germany are reporting over 5,000 cases
SK reports 75 deaths/8236 cases
Spain reports 288 deaths/7753 cases
Germany reports 12 deaths/4838 cases
International/General News
Please stop buying toilet paper unless you are actively out of toilet paper. My butt thanks you in advance.
Vaccine testing began today in Seattle, Washington. This is the first phase of vaccine testing, where healthy volunteers take the vaccine to make sure it is safe.
The World Health Organization will stop separating Chinese cases as today is the first day that cases outside China outstripped cases inside China
France is now on lockdown
We are seeing the difference that social distancing can make in this epidemic: look at the difference between European countries that have and have not shut down.
Virology Corner
Today’s topic is recovery from COVID-19: how do we know that you’re recovered and that you’re no longer shedding the virus?
We know from Chinese studies that in people who recover clinically (i.e. when they stop feeling like death’s ass) they can shed virus for up to 20 days from the onset of symptoms. People who die shed virus until after they die.
Fortunately, we have a way of testing for active virus shedding: the same tests we use to detect viral genes at the start of an infection work to show that you are clear of infection!
This is super useful to know because we do not always test for cure in infectious diseases - for example, we don’t usually test flu patients for cure.
It’s pretty clear that when people have two negative tests separated by 24 hours, they are considered “recovered”. That’s the definition the WHO uses, and the one I will use here unless I specify otherwise.
Question Tuesday
Today’s question comes from @dasyuridae: “does the UK’s response make sense?”
HELL NO it does not
That’s the short answer
The long answer is that herd immunity works as a prevention strategy in certain types of infections, and this is not yet that kind of pandemic.
We use herd immunity to prevent against diseases when we have a vaccine for them. By immunizing everyone who can be immunized, we prevent those who cannot be immunized from getting and/or spreading the disease. This is essential to protecting people from things like measles and the flu.
If humans are the only host for a particular virus, we can even use herd immunity to totally delete the disease from planet earth. Ask smallpox. Oh wait. You can’t. We deleted it. (except for the highly secure samples in Russia and the USA, shh)
COVID-19 likely has a reservoir in animals so we can’t delete it, but once we have a vaccine, herd immunity will be awesome for preventing further outbreaks.
To have herd immunity now, likely upwards of 90% of the UK would need to get the virus and recover, thereby developing immunity. That is a bad idea because no health system can handle that.
A better way to do this is what most other countries are doing, mitigating spread by isolating affected people, offering lots of testing, and quarantining areas with lots of asymptomatic spread.
In conclusion, fuck Boris Johnson, he doesn’t understand how epidemiology works and that’s gonna hurt/kill a lot of people.
I have two elderly grandparents in the UK. Fuck Boris.
If you have questions, ask them and they’ll appear here in the next issue of corona extra!
Regional News (if you want somewhere added just let me know. Don’t be shy!! I highly recommend you just skip to your area if you don’t wanna be overwhelmed.)
Canada: last updated 3/16/20 at 9 AM EST
Total cases: 324 confirmed (+75), 17 presumed (+13), 1 death (3/9/20, no change), 5 recovered
Symptoms began for these cases between 1/15 and 3/13
13% of cases have required hospitalization (up from 12%)
74% (down from 79%) of cases are in travellers, and a further 6% in their close contacts
Affected provinces include: Alberta (56, +17), BC (73, +0), Manitoba (7, +3), New Brunswick (6, +4), Newfoundland and Labrador (1, +0), Nova Scotia (5, +2) Ontario (172, +69), PEI (1, +0), Québec (50, +9), and Saskatchewan (6, +4).
Totals here include confirmed and presumptive positives
4 cases in repatriated travellers (no change)
Restrictions/Closures:
No formal restrictions/closures at the federal level
Recommendation to avoid non-essential travel, particularly cruise ships
All international travelers directed to self-isolate for 14 days upon arrival
Alberta: last updated 3/15
56 cases, 17 new, 0 deaths
Community spread confirmed in Calgary
Restrictions/closures
K-12 schools and in-person post-secondary classes/training are closed
Licensed childcare facilities, out-of-school care programs, and preschools are closed indefinitely
British Columbia: last updated 3/14
73 cases, 9 new, 4 recovered, 1 death
Affected public health units include: Fraser, Interior, and Vancouver Coastal
Vancouver coastal has the most cases as far as I can tell
Clusters of infection have been reported at Lynn Valley Care Centre, Hollyburn House Retirement Residence, and Lions Gate Hospital (admin staff).
Manitoba: last updated 3/16 AM
7 cases, 3 new, no deaths
Visitor restrictions for hospitals are in effect
New Brunswick: last updated 3/16 1 PM
6 cases, 4 new on 3/15, no deaths
Affected areas include Zone 3
I don’t live in NB so I have no idea what this is beyond one of at least three zones
Schools are closed starting 3/16 for two weeks
Newfoundland & Labrador
1 case
Sorry that’s all the info I have
Nova Scotia
5 cases
Gatherings over 150 people are disallowed
Casinos are closed starting 3/16; VLTs are not allowed in bars
Childcare facilities are closed starting 3/17 through 4/3
Public schools are closed until 4/6
Long-term care facilities are closed to visitors until further notice
Ontario: last updated 3/16 at 10:30 AM local time
177 cases, 69 new, 5 recovered, no deaths
Affected public health units include: Durham (1), Halton (1), Hamilton (4), Niagara (1), Ottawa (3), Peel (4), Sudbury (1), Toronto (11), Wellington Dufferin Guelph (1), York (5)
Only cases from 3/16 on will be counted under here based on how the site works
P.E.I.: last updated 3/16 AM
1 case, in Queens County, connected to a cruise
Closures/restrictions
Libraries and community events are closed/canceled
Child care facilities are closed for two weeks starting 3/17
Public schools are closed until April 6
Québec: last updated 3/16 AM
50 cases, 9 new, no deaths
Affected regions include: Capitale Nationale (2, +0), Mauricie - Centre du Québec (3, +0), Estrie (3, +0), Montréal (18, +5), Chaudière-Appalaches (4, +1), Lanaudière (3, +1), Laurentides (3, +0), Montérégie (10, +1), and undetermined/outside Québec (4, +1).
State of health emergency as of 3/13
Closures/restrictions
Indoor gatherings of >250 people prohibited, many public buildings closed until further notice
Daycare/childcare facilities and all schools closed until 3/27
Elections scheduled for 3/15 have been rescheduled to after late April
Non-essential visits to hospitals and long-term care institutions are prohibited
Saskatchewan: last updated 3/15
6 cases
Sorry this is all I have right now
Greece: last updated 3/16 at 1:45 pm local time
Note: I do not speak Greek, and I therefore am struggling to find official data from somewhere more granular than the WHO. I’m sourcing most of this from the WHO and from Ekathimerini, but if you know where I can find better/more up to date info, please let me know. Thank you!
331 total cases, 141 new
4 deaths total (1 new on 3/15)
Restrictions/Closures:
All arrivals to the country are required to isolate for 14 days
Parliament has suspended all committee meetings and restricted each party to one MP in attendance at a time
Businesses are closed starting Wednesday 3/18, with the exception of gas stations, pharmacies, and groceries
Supermarkets are restricting the number of patrons to allow 1 person per 10 square meters
Ireland: last updated 3/15
169 total cases, 40 new, 2 total deaths
Deaths occurred on 3/11 and 3/14
Community transmission is confirmed
The following regional breakdown is available of the new cases: 25 eastern, 9 western, 6 southern
Restrictions/Closures
All pubs & bars are closed until March 29. House parties are strongly discouraged.
Schools, colleges, and childcare facilities are closed until March 29
Indoor gatherings of >100 people and outdoor gatherings >500 people are prohibited
State run cultural institutions are closed until further notice
The Netherlands: last updated 3/16 at 2 PM local time
I still do not speak Dutch, please please correct me if I get something wrong!
Seriously this is all run through Google Translate, I won’t take it personally
1413 confirmed cases, 24 deaths
278 new cases, 4 new deaths
Average age of decedents is 79, with a range from 59 to 94
Provinces affected include: Drenthe (16, +1), Flevoland (22, +3), Friesland (13, +3), Gelderland (135, +35), Groningen (10, +1), Limburg (149, +20), North Brabant (554, +108), North Holland (115, +25), Overijssel (36, +8), Utrecht (140, +31), South Holland (136, +26), and Zeeland (17, +1).
I think this is all of them based on a quick Wikipedia investigation?
There are 70 non-residents/unknown location patients
Restrictions/Closures
Schools, restaurants/bars, sports and fitness clubs, sex clubs, saunas, and childcare facilities are closed until April 6
Tae Bo is about to undergo a renaissance, I can feel it. Bring on the 80s outfits and the Jazzercise too!!
New Zealand: last updated 3/16 at 2 pm local time
8 confirmed cases, 2 probable cases
NO NEW CASES, YAY!!
The new patients from 3/15 are doing well and remain in quarantine; one was not hospitalized and the other has been released from hospital
Travel into and out of the country is restricted and those returning from overseas are asked to self-isolate for two weeks.
The Golden Princess has left port and the passenger in question tested negative.
Norway: last updated 3/16 at 8 pm local time
I still don’t speak Norwegian so if I screwed up lemme know
Everyone is still on lockdown, and apparently salty about being banned from their rural cabins 
1332 cases, 3 deaths
53 hospitalized, 11 critical
96 new cases during the 24h of March 15
359 cases acquired in Norway, 752 acquired outside of Norway, the rest are undetermined. Community spread is confirmed.
Locations where people became infected include Austria (513), Italy (148), Switzerland (18), UK (14), Spain (14), France (10), USA (7), Iran (5), Germany (5),  other countries with more than 3 cases (18), and other countries with less than 3 cases (58).
Breakdown of cases by area: Agder (87, +32), Innlandet (88, +16), Møre og Romsdal (20, +0), Nordland (11, +3), Oslo (292, +11), Rogaland (164, +37), Troms og Finnmark (23, +3), Trøndelag (74, +24), Vestfold og Telemark (69, nice, +21), Vestland (131, +13), and Viken (373, +95)
Yay no new cases in Møre og Romsdal!
Switzerland:  last updated 3/16 at 5:45 pm local time
Whole country is on lockdown as of 3/16: no entry or exit until further notice (maximum of 6 months), schools are closed until 4/19, all events are canceled, and all personal service establishments are closed.
1,680 confirmed cases
14 deaths
United Kingdom in general: Last updated 3/16 at 9 AM local time
Boris is still a stupid shit, surprise surprise.
Fuck Boris
He’s ~encouraging~ people to stay home, which is kind of laughable given the severity of the pandemic and how strict other countries are having to be
1,543 total cases (+12.4%), 152 are new today
55 total deaths, 20 new today
England
1,196 total cases, 97 new
Affected UTLAs with at least 10 cases are as follows: Hampshire (55), Kensington & Chelsea (43), Westminster (37), Southwark (33), Hertfordshire (29), Lambeth (26), Barnet (25), Surrey (25), Oxfordshire (23), Camden (22), Hammersmith & Fulham (21), Brent (20), Hackney & City of London (20), Wadsworth (20), Devon (20), Essex (20), Ealing (18), Greenwich (18), Lewisham (17), Haringey (16), Sheffield (15), Birmingham (15), Leeds (14), Harrow (14), Nottinghamshire (14), Hillingdon (13), Hounslow (12), Merton (12), Tower Hamlets (12), Buckinghamshire (12), Cambridgeshire (12), Derbyshire (12), Kent (12), Northamptonshire (12), Walsall (11), Wolverhampton (11), Bromley (11), Islington (11), Sutton (11), Nottingham (10), Brighton & Hove (10), Oldham (10), Barking & Dagenham (10), Cumbria (10)
As things continue to escalate I will figure out a better way to display this
Deaths are not being reported by the PHS but I will do my best to split these out in the next few editions using news reports etc. It will hopefully be included by the 3/18 edition but no promises? If you have a good source for deaths by county/area, please let me know.
Scotland: last updated 3/16 at 2 pm local time
171 cases, 18 new, 1 death
Affected health boards are as follows: Ayrshire and Arran (7, +1), Borders (7, +0), Fife (7, +0), Forth Valley (10, +0), Grampian (12, +0), Greater Glasgow and Clyde (44, +5), Highland (2, +0), Lanarkshire (20, +4), Lothian (29, +1), Shetland (15, +4), and Tayside (17, +2)
Clearly the ones I listed yesterday were not all of them because…
Newly affected health boards are as follows: Dumfries and Galloway (1)
Wales: last updated 3/16 at 11 am local time
124 cases, 30 new
1 death (3/16)
Affected areas include: Blaenau Gwent County (5, +1), Bridgend County (1, +0), Caerphilly County (14, +3), Carmarthenshire County (7, +0), Ceredigion County (1, +0), City & County of Swansea (23, +1), City of Cardiff (11, +3), Conwy County (1, +0), Flintshire County (1, +0), Isle of Anglesey (2, +1), Monmouthshire County (7, +2), Neath Port Talbot (11, +0), Newport City (14, +7), Pembrokeshire (2, +0), Powys County (3, +0),  Rhondda Cynon Taf County (2, +0), Torfaen County (2, +0), Vale of Glamorgan County (1, +0), and Wrexham County (2, +1).
Note that some of these numbers have changed more than you might see from looking at yesterday’s report; this is because residential locations of patients are being confirmed. 12 cases remain unlocalized and 2 are residents outside of Wales.
Northern Ireland: last updated 3/16 at 9 am local time
52 cases, 7 new
Health dept is not providing more detail than this at this time as far as I can tell
US in general: updated 3/16 at 4 pm local time (EST for CDC numbers)
3,487 total cases, 1,858 new with 46 states and DC reporting cases.
This is the start of the explosion of cases I’ve been expecting because of increased testing. This is a good sign that we’re catching more cases. It also indicates that there’s been spread going on for a while.
68 deaths, 27 new (1.95% mortality rate)
53 jurisdictions are reporting cases: 49 states, DC, Puerto Rico, Guam, and US Virgin Islands
Only West Virginia continues to not have cases. Impressive.
CDC is now recommending all in person gatherings with more than 50 people be canceled for the next 8 weeks. This sucks for me personally and probably a lot of you all too. Hang in there.
Trump told states that they should “try to get” ventilators and other critical supplies themselves. Fuck him too.
Not that it’s not the states’ jobs too, but also the federal aid and stockpile is like, a huge thing in disaster response (wait, oops, Trump cut that too)
Alabama: updated 3/16 at 1 PM local time
28 cases, no deaths
Affected counties include: Baldwin (1), Elmore (1), Lee (1), Jefferson (17), Limestone (1), Montgomery (1), Shelby (3), and Tuscaloosa (3).
Arizona: updated 3/16 at 11:36 AM
18 cases, no deaths
Affected counties include: Graham (1), Maricopa (8), Pima (4), and Pinal (5)
California: updated around 10 AM PST, 3/15/20
The Governor has recommended the following:
Those with chronic health conditions and those over 65 should shelter in place.
Gatherings over 250 people should be canceled.
Drinking establishments should be closed but restaurants can operate at 50% capacity.
Hospitals and long term care facilities should prohibit visitors except for end of life situations
Total cases not including the ones at Miramar (discussed below): 363, with 6 total deaths
Deaths have occurred in the following counties: Placer (1), Sacramento (2), San Mateo (1), Santa Clara (2)
The following counties report recoveries: Humboldt (1), San Benito (2)
The following counties report numbers of hospitalizations: Los Angeles (2), San Diego (8), Santa Clara (52)
Affected counties include: Alameda (18, +11), Calaveras (2, +0), Contra Costa (34, +5), Fresno (2, +0), Humboldt (1, +0), Imperial (2, +0), Los Angeles (94, +25), Madera (1, +0), Marin (9, +4), Orange (17, +3), Placer (8, +0), Riverside (15, +5), Sacramento (33, +4) San Benito (3, +0), San Diego (33, +25), San Francisco (40, +12), San Joaquin (8, +0), San Luis Obispo (3, +2), San Mateo (41, +9), Santa Clara (138, +47), Santa Cruz (9, +2), Shasta (1, +0), Solano (9, +3), Sonoma (5, +1), Stanislaus (3, +1), Tulare (2, +0), Ventura (5, +0), Yolo (2, +0)
Note regarding San Diego: The four federally quarantined people are not included in the county statistics.
Unaffected counties include: Alpine, Butte, Colusa, Del Norte, El Dorado, Glenn, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Lake, Lassen, Mariposa, Mendocino, Merced, Modoc, Mono, Monterey, Napa, Plumas, Sierra, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity, Tuolumne, Yuba
Counties with confirmed community transmission include: Los Angeles, Marin, Orange, Riverside, San Francisco, San Joaquin, Santa Clara, Sonoma
Ventura County retested a possible case of community transmission and did not find evidence as of 3/16/20.
Newly affected counties include Amador (1), Nevada (1), San Bernardino (1), Santa Barbara (1)
Closures/Restrictions by County
Alameda: Shelter in Place until 4/7
Contra Costa: Shelter in Place until 4/7
Del Norte: Schools closed through 4/20
El Dorado: Schools closed through 3/20
Marin: Shelter in Place until 4/7
Mendocino: Modified schooling starting 3/17
Mono: Schools closed through 3/30, Alterra Mountain closed
Nevada: Schools are closed until 4/13, libraries closed until 4/12
Riverside: Schools & daycares are closed, gatherings >250 people prohibited
San Benito: Schools are closed
San Francisco: Shelter in Place until 4/7
San Luis Obispo: Alcohol sales on site are banned through 3/18
San Mateo: Shelter in Place until 4/7
Santa Clara: Shelter in Place until 4/7
Santa Cruz: Schools are closed until 3/20
Stanislaus: Gatherings of >1000 people are prohibited indoor and outdoor from 3/16 to 3/31
Tuolumne: Schools are closed from 3/16 to 3/30
Ventura: All schools and public libraries are closed starting 3/16 until further notice
Yolo: Many schools are closed at the local level. The County website has a list of closures: https://www.yolocounty.org/health-human-services/adults/communicable-disease-investigation-and-control/novel-coronavirus-2019
Counties with no closures/restrictions beyond those mandated by the state: Alpine, Amador, Butte, Calaveras, Colusa, Fresno, Glenn, Humboldt, Imperial, Inyo, Kern, Kings, Lake, Lassen, Los Angeles, Madera, Merced, Modoc, Monterey, Napa, Orange, Placer, Plumas, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Joaquin, Santa Barbara, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Solano, Sutter, Tehama, Trinity, Tulare, and Yuba
Drive through testing is available in Marin County
Colorado - last updated 3/15 at 145 pm local time
131 cases (+30), 1 death
Counties reporting deaths include: El Paso (1)
Affected counties include: Adams (6, +0), Arapahoe (15, +5), Denver (24, +4), Douglas (8, +4), Eagle (22, +4), El Paso (4, +1), Gunnison (8, +2), Jefferson (12, +3), Larimer (1, +0), Mesa (1, +0), Pitkin (2, +0), Pueblo (1, +0), Summit (1, +0), Weld (5, +2), with one case reassigned from Summit to unknown status
Out of state visitors who have tested positive are tallied separately, 15 in total (+0). They are located in the following counties: Pitkin (9), Eagle (2), Routt (1), Denver (1), unknown (2).
Confirmed community spread
Newly affected counties include: Boulder (3), Clear Creek (1),
Drive through testing is available in: Denver and Lowry
Residents of Gunnison, Eagle, Summit, Pitkin are recommended to minimize social contact
Anyone who visited the Colorado Springs Bridge center in late Feb-early Mar may have been exposed, call the DPH for more information
Events of >50 people are “strongly encouraged” to be canceled
Schools are closed in many places, local news is your best bet for this. I’ll try to include this eventually but it’s too much today.
Connecticut - last update 3/16 at 5 pm local time
41 cases
The following counties are affected: Fairfield (29), Hartford (4), Litchfield (4), New Haven (4)
Connecticut’s small, right? You can’t have more than 4 counties?
Restrictions/Closures
Gatherings >250 people are canceled through 4/30
No gatherings >50 people until further notice
Nursing home visits restricted
Schools closed through 3/30
Restaurants are carryout/drive through only through 4/30
Fitness/recreation centers and movie theaters closed through 4/30
Delaware: last update 3/16 at 1:40 local time
8 cases, 0 deaths
Affected counties include: New Castle (8)
Do you guys have any other counties?? This is gonna be another Rhode Island sitch, I think.
Restrictions/closures:
Events over >100 people are encouraged to cancel/reschedule
Schools closed through 3/27
District of Columbia: last update 3/16 AM
17 cases, no deaths
There’s no counties in DC, you can’t trick me
Restrictions/Closures
Food service/drinking establishments are restricted to <250 people, <6 people/table, no standing or bar seating, and tables separated by 6 feet
Nightclubs etc are closed
Florida - last updated 12:38 pm local time 3/16/20
155 (+40) cases and 4 deaths (+0)
Florida has not yet confirmed community transmission but it’s almost certainly happening. I’m no longer separating counties with and without confirmed community transmission because of that.
Affected counties  include: Alachua (2, +1), Broward (39, +3), Charlotte (1, +0), Citrus (1, +0), Clay (3, +0), Collier (6, +1), Duval (5, +1), Hillsborough (5, +1), Lee (4, -1), Manatee (5, +1), Miami-Dade (23, +10), Nassau (1, +0) Okaloosa (1, +0), Orange (3, +0), Osceola (4, +2), Palm Beach (8, +3), Pasco (2, +0) Pinellas (4 +2), Santa Rosa (1, +0), Sarasota (3, +2) Seminole (4, +3), St. Johns (2, +1) Volusia (7, +2)
A case was removed from the record of Lee County. Since FLDPH changed their website, I don’t know where it was reassigned.
Newly affected counties include: Escambia (1) and Lake (1)
Georgia: last updated 3/16 at 11:21 AM
121 cases, 22 new, 1 death
Affected counties include: Bartow (9, +0), Charlton (1, +0), Cherokee (7, +1), Clayton (5, +3), Clarke (3, +1), Cobb (22, +3), Coweta (2, +0), Dekalb (10, +0), Dougherty (6, +0), Fayette (5, +0), Floyd (4, +0), Fulton (27, +7), Gordon (2, +0), Gwinnett (5, +1), Henry (2, +1), Lowndes (3, +1), Lee (2, +0), Newton (1, +0), and Polk (1, +0).
Newly affected counties include: Forsyth (1), Hall (1), Paulding (1), and Troup (1)
Illinois: last updated 3/14/20
105 confirmed cases, 16 new
Confirmed community spread
Affected counties include Champaign, Clinton, Cook, Cumberland, DuPage, Kane, Lake, McHenry, Sangamon, St. Clair, Whiteside, Winnebago, and Woodford
ILDPH is not publishing numbers per county. I will try to include this for tomorrow’s update.
Newly affected counties include: Peoria and Will
Closings/Restrictions
Bars and restaurants are closed (except for carryout and drive through) until 3/30
All gatherings >50 people prohibited
Gyms/fitness centers/clubs/theaters are closed
DMV is closed! I personally hate the IL DMV so this isn’t like, sad news in particular…..
Community colleges and public schools are closed - like in other places I will attempt to include county-by-county news soon.
Iowa: last updated 3/16
Total cases: 22, 4 new
Affected counties include: Carroll (1, +0), Dallas (1, +0), Harrison (1, +0), Johnson (15, +1), and Pottawattamie (1, +0)
Newly affected counties include: Allamakee (2) and Polk (1)
Community spread confirmed
Closures/restrictions
Schools closed for 4 weeks starting 3/16
Kansas: last updated 3/16
11 confirmed cases (+3), 1 death
Affected counties include: Johnson (8, +3), Wyandotte (1, +0), Butler (1, +0), Franklin (1, +0)
Closures/Restrictions
Schools closed through 3/23
Kentucky: last updated 3/16 at 4 pm local time
22 cases (+4), 1 death (+1)
Counties reporting deaths: Bourbon (1)
Counties reporting recoveries: Harrison (1)
Affected counties include: Bourbon (1), Clark (1), Fayette (5), Harrison (6), Jefferson (6), Montgomery (1), and Nelson (1).
Closures/Restrictions
Restaurants and bars closed to in-person service
State Capitol closed to nonessential personnel
Schools are closed statewide
Louisiana: last updated 5:30 pm 3/16
136 cases reported, 45 new
3 deaths, 1 new
Parishes affected:  Bossier (1, +0), Caddo (3, +2), Jefferson (21, +9), Lafourche (2, +1), Orleans (94, +29), St. Bernard (2, +1), St. Charles (3, +1), St. John the Baptist (1, +0), St. Tammany (6, +2), and Terrebonne (2, +0)
New parishes affected: Ascension (1)
Maryland: last updated 10 AM 3/16
37 cases, 0 deaths
Counties affected: Anne Arundel (1), Baltimore (4), Baltimore City (1), Carroll (1), Charles (1), Harford (2), Howard (1), Montgomery (15), Prince George’s (10), Talbot (1)
Community spread confirmed
Exposure risk advisory for Lorien Elkridge
Closures/restrictions
Casinos, racetracks and other gambling situations are closed
Gatherings >250 people prohibited
All schools closed through 3/27
Senior centers closed until further notice
Massachusetts: last updated 4 pm 3/16
197 cases (59 new)
Affected counties include: Barnstable (1, +0), Berkshire (11, +2), Bristol (2, +1), Essex (8, +3), Middlesex (83, +18), Norfolk (36, +8), Suffolk (36, +9), and Worcester (6, +4)
Newly affected counties include: Hampden (1) and Plymouth (3)
10 cases are undetermined location
14 hospitalizations (+3)
They finally stopped making me download a goddamn word doc, thank you Massachusetts <3
Michigan: last updated 3/16 2 pm
54 cases (+21) 0 deaths
Affected counties include: Bay (1, +0), Charlevoix (1, +0), Ingham (1, +0), Kent (5, +2), Macomb (6, +4), Monroe (1, +0), Montcalm (1, +0), Oakland (14, +5), St. Clair (2, +1), Washtenaw (7, +3), and Wayne (14, +6)
Wayne County includes Detroit (6 cases)
Likely community transmission
Closures/Restrictions
Bars and restaurants are carryout/drive through only
Public spaces (casinos, theaters, etc) closed
Public offices open by appt only
Minnesota: last updated 3/16 at 12:00
54 cases (+19)
Affected counties include: Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Olmstead, Ramsey, Renville, Stearns, Waseca, Washington, and Wright
Newly affected counties include: Benton and Blue Earth
County numbers are not currently being provided by MN dept of health, just ranges. Hennepin county has >20 cases.
I will start working on these numbers for tomorrow’s edition
Drive through testing available in Olivia
Montana: last updated 3/15 at 7:45 pm
6 cases
Affected counties not being reported at this time, I’ll try to untangle that tomorrow
Closures/Restrictions
Public schools closed until 3/30
Many counties have closed libraries, these will be included tomorrow
Nebraska: last updated 3/16
Community transmission confirmed: many locations in Douglas County are potential places where transmission has occurred; if you live or have traveled to Douglas County (Omaha), please check the Douglas County COVID-19 monitoring site at: https://www.douglascountyhealth.com/latest-news.
There were also two exposures in Knox County on March 5, at basketball games at Lincoln Southwest HS and North Star HS.
18 cases (+1), no deaths
Affected counties include: Cass (1), Douglas (15) and Knox (1)
New Jersey : last updated 3/16 at 2 pm
178 cases (+109), 2 deaths (+1)
Affected counties include: Bergen (61, +36), Burlington (5, +2), Camden (3, +1), Essex (20, +13), Hudson (19, +14), Mercer (6, +5), Middlesex (17, +7), Monmouth (14, +6), Morris (6, +3), Ocean (3, +2), Passaic (8, +6), Somerset (5, +4), and Union (8, +7)
Newly affected counties include: Hunterdon (1)
Closures/Restrictions:
No gatherings >50 people
New York: last updated 3/16 at 3 PM
950 cases (+337), 2 deaths
Affected counties include: Albany (12, +7), Broome (1, +0), Delaware (1, +0), Dutchess (10, +6), Erie (6, +3), Herkimer (1, +0), Monroe (10, +8), Nassau (109, +30), Orange (11, +5), Rockland (16, +4), Saratoga (5, +2), Schenectady (4, +3), Suffolk (63, +22), Tioga (1, +0), Tompkins (1, +0), Ulster (7, +2), Westchester (220, +42)
NYC has 463 cases (194) as of 3/16 at 11:30 am
Areas/counties reporting deaths are: NYC - Brooklyn (1), Rockland (1)
Newly affected counties include: Allegany (2), Greene (2), Montgomery (1), Onondaga (1), Ontario (1), and Putnam (2)
Drive through testing in New Rochelle, Long Island, Staten Island, and Rockland County
Closures/Restrictions
Bars, restaurants, entertainment venues closed
No gatherings >50 people
Public schools closed until 4/1
Village elections delayed until 4/28
The governor dunked on the federal response hard in his press conference, which was great tbh
North Carolina: last updated 3/16 at 10 AM
33 cases, 0 deaths
Affected counties include: Brunswick (1), Cabarrus (1), Chatham (1), Craven (1), Durham (1), Forsyth (2), Harnett (2), Johnston (2), Mecklenburg (4), Onslow (1), Wake (14), Watauga (1), Wayne (1), and  Wilson (1).
Advisory for an exposure at Raleigh convention center on March 8
Please call Wake County if you were there, they are tracking exposures
Closures/Restrictions
Schools are closed statewide until 3/30
Events >100 people canceled
Ohio: last updated 3/16 at 2 pm
50 confirmed cases, 14 new
14 hospitalizations
Affected counties include: Belmont (2, +0), Butler (6, +0), Cuyahoga (24, +10), Franklin (3, +0), Lorain (3, +1), Lucas (1, +0), Medina (2, +1), Stark (3, +1), Summit (2, +0), Trumbull (2, +0), Tuscarawas (1, +0)
Newly affected counties include: Geauga (1).
Closures/Restrictions
Bars/restaurants are closed
Gatherings >50 people canceled
Oregon: last updated 3/15 at 12 PM
39 cases (+3), 1 death
Counties reporting deaths: Multnomah (1)
13 hospitalized at time of positive test
The following counties are affected: Clackamas (1, +0), Deschutes (4, +1), Douglas (1, +0), Jackson (2, +0), Klamath (1, +0), Linn (10, +1), Marion (2, +0), Multnomah (1, +0), Polk (1, +0), Umatilla (2, +0), and Washington (13, +0).
Newly affected counties include: Yamhill (1).
Pennsylvania: last updated 3/16 at 7 pm
Gritty continues his dark work.
76 total cases (+13)
Counties affected include: Allegheny (5, +2) Bucks (5, +1), Chester (2, +0), Cumberland (5, +0), Delaware (7, +0),  Lehigh (1, +0), Luzerne (1, +0), Monroe (8, +2), Montgomery (30, +6), Northampton (1, +0), Philadelphia (8, +2), Pike (1, +0), Washington (1, +0), Wayne (1, +0)
Newly affected counties include: NONE TODAY! \o/
Closures/restrictions:
Restaurants and bars are closed in the following counties until 3/30:  Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery
Presumably this will deter Gritty
Rhode Island: last updated 3/16
21 confirmed cases (+1), no deaths
Chanston High School West had an exposure; 1700 people are currently quarantined after this exposure
I will attempt to sort out county level data soon, since apparently y’all have counties
South Carolina: last updated 3/16 at 3:50 pm
33 cases, no deaths
Will try to find more granular data for tomorrow’s edition
South Dakota: last updated 3/16
10 confirmed cases (+1),  no deaths
Affected counties include: Beadle (1, +0), Bon Homme (1, +0), Charles Mix (1, +0), Davison (1, +0), McCook (1, +0), Minnehaha (4, +1), and Pennington (1, +0)
No community transmission
Tennessee: last updated 3/16 at 2 pm
52 cases, no deaths
Affected counties include: Campbell (1), Davidson (25), Hamilton (1), Jefferson (1), Knox (1), Rutherford (1), Sevier (1), Shelby (2), Sullivan (1), and Williamson (18)
Texas: last updated 3/16
57 total cases, 1 new.
Highly likely that there has been community transmission, unconfirmed currently
Affected counties include: Bell (1, +0), Bexar (3, +2), Brazoria (2, +0), Collin (6, +1), Dallas (8, +0), El Paso (1, +0), Fort Bend (9, +0), Galveston (1, +0), Gregg (1, +0), Harris (10, +0), Hays (1, +0), Lavaca (1, +0), Matagorda (1), Montgomery (3, +0), Smith (4, +1), Tarrant (3, +0), and Travis (2, +1)
Newly affected counties include: None today!
Utah: last updated 3/16
29 total cases
Affected health districts include: Davis County (4, +1), Salt Lake county (18, +2), Southwest Utah (1, +0), Summit County (11, +9), and Weber-Morgan (2, +1)
Newly affected districts include: Tooele (1), Utah County (1), and Wasatch County (1)
First case of community spread identified on 3/14/20, in Summit County
Exposure at Wasatch High School identified
Schools: canceled
Mormons: canceled
Skiing: canceled
Public places in SLC: Canceled
Vermont
12 cases total (+4)
Affected counties include: Bennington (3), Chittenden (4), Orange (1), Springfield (1), Washington (1), and Windsor (3)
Hospitalizations are reported in the following counties: Bennington (3), Chittenden (1), Springfield (1), Washington (1), Windsor (1)
Closures/restrictions:
No gatherings >50 people or >50% capacity, whichever is lower
Schools are closed starting 3/18
Virginia: last updated 3/16
51 cases total, 6 new
Affected counties/cities include: Alexandria City (2, +1), Arlington (9, +1), Chesterfield (2, +1), Fairfax (10, +0), Hanover (1, +0), Harrisonburg City (1, +0), James City (10, +2), Loudoun (5, +0), Prince Edward (1, +0), Prince William (3, +0), Spotsylvania (1, +0), and Virginia Beach City (4, +0)
Newly affected areas include: Stafford (1) and York (1)
Washington: last updated 3/16 at 3:45 PM
Things are still super rough. Hang in there.
904 total cases (+262), 48 deaths (+8)
Current mortality rate: 5.3%
Deaths have occurred in the following counties: Grant (1, +0), King (43, +8), and Snohomish (4, +0).
Affected counties include: Clark (4, +1), Columbia (1, +0), Grant (3, +1), Grays Harbor (1, +0), Island (7, +1), Jefferson (3, +2), King (488, +101), Kitsap (7, +4), Kittitas (3, +0), Pierce (38, +12), Skagit (7, +3), Snohomish (200, +46), Spokane (3, +0), Thurston (4, +1), Whatcom (3, +1), and Yakima (4, +0).
126 cases are currently unassigned to a county. These are expected to resolve in the coming days, hopefully.
Newly affected counties include: Lewis (1) and Lincoln (1)
Closures/restrictions: widespread, will have county-by-county info soon.
Wisconsin: last updated 3/16 at 2 PM
47 total cases (+14), 0 deaths
Recovery is being reported by the following counties: Dane (1)
This is updated every Friday, next update expected 3/20
Affected counties include: Dane (10, +4), Fond du Lac (11, +0), Milwaukee (13, +6), Pierce (1, +0), Racine (1, +0), Sheboygan (3, +0), Waukesha (3, +0), and Winnebago (3, +2)
Newly affected counties include: Outagamie (1) and Wood (1)
Closures/restrictions
Schools closed starting 3/18 for minimum of two weeks
Today’s Hot Tips
Social distancing can be really crappy for people who are prone to feeling isolated. Try to schedule time to hang out virtually, especially if you’re stuck at home alone. I highly recommend the Jackbox party games to stream over Discord, or tabletop RPGs played through a service like Roll20. My friends and I have been doing all these things and it’s helping a lot!
If you have a favorite quarantine activity, let me know and I can include it in the next issue!
Everyone knows that sex is an option, there’s gonna be a lot of November, December, & January babies
That said, make sure your quarantine supplies include contraception and condoms and stuff. If you have a uterus, you can buy emergency contraception (plan B) online and it’s real handy to have around in a situation like this.
Hand washing is so hot right now
Hand Washing Song of the Day
If you hate singing happy birthday while you wash your hands, I certainly do, try Barrett’s Privateers!
Sing the first verse and chorus to feel like a pirate and follow CDC handwashing guidelines! Use soap and water for maximum virus-murdering.
Good News, Everyone!
The Shedd Aquarium took its penguins around to explore the whole aquarium since there were no people, and boy were those lil guys fascinated by everything!
Check it out here: https://twitter.com/shedd_aquarium/status/1239248971006185478?s=21
Chill Cat Corner
This one’s a classic: “where’s the babies???”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rELs4jl64k
I wish I could summon a bunch of smol kittens to scream at me like this
About this newsletter
I’m Emily, I’m a 4th year med student w/ a degree in molecular biology. I started this because I’m an infectious disease and epidemiology nerd and also all my friends have questions & anxiety. Hi internet!
The archive/proper website is located at coronaextranewsletter.wordpress.com.
All this info is sourced from regional & national public health organizations, plus the WHO. It’s as up to date as humanly possible. I’ve been beaming information about this outbreak directly into my brain 24/7 but I still miss stuff. Please let me know if I miss something!
Most public health departments stop updating their information around 4-5 PM local time on weekdays. That means that the earliest this will come out is around 6 PM Pacific time on weekdays going forward. On weekends things update more sporadically and earlier, so who knows what I’ll do then, but I’ll do my best.
The excellent title is courtesy of @marywhal​ and the Wordpress site is courtesy of @molly0xFFF and @goblinartificer on Twitter, thank you all!
For More Information
JHU COVID-19 data center: https://gisanddata.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/bda7594740fd40299423467b48e9ecf6
List of peer-reviewed publications: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/publications.html
WHO daily sitrep: https://www.who.int/docs/default-source/coronaviruse/situation-reports/20200316-sitrep-56-covid-19.pdf?sfvrsn=9fda7db2_2
WHO FAQ: https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses
CDC cases in the US: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-in-us.html, this also has links to each state’s health dept
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