#az has feelings about dragon age

[gallows-into-oblivion]

i think what i struggled with most in playing DAI immediately after DA2 was the pacing. i'm gonna do my best to describe what i mean

DAO was my first RPG, and the pacing was pretty simple. do the quests, talk to your party in camp, repeat. there technically was a destination but you could take your time getting there and even go on diversions if you wanted.

DA2 also felt like that except with much less control over when you talk to your companions. that sucked for me at first. but overall the balance of busy work (killing corpses) to interesting story stuff was good.

and then there's DAI.

suddenly i have significantly less control over the pacing of the main storyline. it felt like the devs sacrificed player control in order to make the game seem more like a movie, but then they also made it more "open world"? except the world isn't open, not really, because i have to collect 8 or 40 power to unlock each new area and that's the same resource that i have to collect to unlock main quests. so i complete all the quests in haven and then i hit a dopamine wall. the game isn't giving me enough motivation to continue. it's slightly better when i get to skyhold, but even then, everything takes so goddamn long! tell me why the inquisitor is collecting elfroot!

so yeah

[gallows-into-oblivion]

this is literally just the experience of having a sibling and is why da2 hits so much harder for me than any other bioware games i've played.

when i first heard that line, i couldn't believe the writers got away with leaving it in. and to be clear, i don't think Gamlen is a bad person. i think he's damaged and bitter and refuses to directly acknowledge the hurt that has been done to him because it's easier for him to remain ignorant. but just like all people who repress emotions, Gamlen has to lash out somewhere. where better than at his sister's oldest, the success, the one with all the weight already on their shoulders? they can take it. they've been taking it their whole life.

anyway my brainrot about All That Remains will never be over thank you

that bit after All That Remains (if you're playing mage!Hawke) where Gamlen says "why couldn't you just be normal like your brother" literally made me gasp the first time I heard it. I still can't believe he says that to you.

[azrielgreen]

I think you're my favorite author of all time, ever. I really mean that. Your work is so meaningful. It is just limitlessly rich, so clever and full of feelings that I feel so much, it's like magic to me. I saw someone say that you are genius without peer and I wholeheartedly agree. I will read your work, always and forever.

I wanted to ask too, do you use similar phrases on purpose or is that your natural style coming out? In Touched ch10, Eddie says, "a plan has moving parts," and I am that obsessed with your work that I immediately recognised it from WSJK. I see little similarities here and there and each one makes me smile, like seeing the lights on your home street. Either way, you are astoundingly talented. I feel lucky to have been around at the start with you, way back in your 2019 Dragon Age days. Love you always, Az.

This is so BEAUTIFUL!!😭 Thank you so much, wow. You're so kind.

In answer to your Q, yes I absolutely reuse phrases on purpose to create strings between stories, little connections and throwbacks. I remember EVERYTHING they've ever said to each other and I wilfully create associations and nostalgia between the versions because in my mind, they are all connected and they all dream about each other.

Thank you so much again. This is such a lovely message.

💜💜💜

[carrie-tate]

It's already a tradition, when I'm too fond of some fandom, I create a new character xD

Wakfu is no exception

Meet Karin! Nothing more than a minor character for the plot of the animated series, but she has a story! (more about her + a couple of sketches under "keep reading")

Our "Yugo and friends" group is walking (this filler-style plot of the original would have happened somewhere in the first season before meeting Adamai) through some nameless village. The streets are busy, everyone is doing something (perhaps due to some important event in the style of the harvest season and now EVERYONE is busy)

And then through the noise of the crowd comes barely audible sobs

It's clear that the two most heroic bros, Dally and Yugo, will run to the rescue, because… This is exactly what heroes do xD The rest follow them without much enthusiasm.

And there they find Karin, a little child sitting on a shabby stool, sitting and crying.

And since, due to her young age and in general, due to the fact that our company is clearly not very good at calming children (I clearly see how Dally just at some point says something in the style of "If someone offends you, just tell me, I'll show them!" and waves Rubilax in all directions, which only scares the child (and for which he receives a flick from Evangeline))

As a result, in order to understand whose child it is and who to lead it and what to do with it, they are more likely to turn to someone with a question (Why not, the village is small, everyone knows each other) whose it is

and I also clearly see a picture of how Ruel seems to be trying to calm the child (well, let's be honest that his heart is not so stone as to calmly watch a small child crying who did not annoy him with anything) he just sits next to him in the style of "well, well, that's it okay, don't cry please" and in the end Karin will cry already in his coat x'> and grab it with a stranglehold. I think she will end up falling asleep while Yugo and the others ask around who she is. So sorry, Ruel, but you will either have to wake up the child (which kind-hearted ladies in the person of Amalia and Eva will not allow you, because "the baby has already suffered so much!"), Or take her in your arms, and given that she is not baby, that's a bit heavy xd

It turns out that recently (the fire that destroyed the house along with her parents) Karin is an orphan, and there is no one to take care of the girl, and she has been crying for the last three days (well, I think for obvious reasons)

And that the child seems to have some distant uncles-aunts, but they live too far away, and there is no one to take her there

and here Yugo turns on the "help all the unfortunate" mode, and he will be able to convince the others to help the girl solely because they are on their way to that distant village

(and I'm sure Ruel with his enutrof habits will also be able to arrange for them to get some sort of supply cart for them to take care of the kid)

in short, with a higher probability, nothing so directly interesting would have happened on their way from point a to point b

except perhaps the experience of our company to look after a child and, in general, to feel the power of responsibility for someone's life x'>

I'm sure she'll love Az

she will try to squeeze him because "BIRDEY!"

he will obviously not be happy but Yugo is like "please, she just calmed down-"

Amalia plays princesses with her, or rather tries to dress up like a princess or do something noble but it even seems to me that an attempt to play a knight with a rubilax (from which Dally will be a little shocked because how this child stole his sword so easily xD) will be more interested in her

By the way…

in the end (well, let's say the path will take two days from point a to point b)

Early morning, everyone is sleeping, and Karin is like "I woke up" then

WOW BUTTERFLY

although in the eyes of the child she immediately turned into a terrible dragon, which she, as a "knight", needs to defeat

And she grabs Rubilax like that and climbs out of the cart into the forest for a butterfly

Then Dally notices her, who will notice this only when the girl hides in the thicket of the forest. there is a moment in the style of a smooth awareness of what happened

like "what is this..? ah, it's Karin running into the woods… then ok… stop. KARIN RUNNING INTO THE WOODS!"

Meanwhile, a dialogue takes place between Rubilax and Karin, where Shushu, without much problem, talks to the child to release him. (something like: "Do you want to become a real knight, huh?")

How the battle ends up:

It seems that everyone is already in a fight, while trying not to harm, because, she is a child, Rubilax realizes that Karin does not listen to him at all (because manipulating a child is a bad thing)

and most of her punches are in the style of "Turn around while her tail BAM and Dally flies into a tree"

then it still flies into her in a serious way, she gets scared and in general looks … well, scared

and in the end everything is decided by conversations like "Everything will be fine, just let us get this muck out of your head"

(in the background, rubilax swears because he is unlucky with all these possessions x'>

+ some sketches

[might-as-well-happen]

you know you have brainrot when everything you watch becomes an AU for your blorbos, anyway

Studio 100 Doornroosje (Sleeping Beauty) musical Good Omens AU:

Aziraphale is trans and Doornroosje/Aurora Crowley is Johnathan the Gardener The three fairies (of the light) are Michael, Uriel, and Gabriel The fairy (of the night) is Beelzebub (representing the Dark Lord or something idk) The rest is the same, including the Prince Maurice, because I think it's funny lol

So, everything is basically the same: We start with the fairies of the light giving their gifts (Meet true love at age 10, marry him at age 18), and then Beelzebub enters and curses Aziraphale to die at age 18 through pricking on a spinning wheel. I like to think Gabriel hasn't given his gift yet, and so changes his wish to be that everyone falls asleep for a 100 years, and Aziraphale will be kissed awake by his true love. At AZ's birthday, his parents introduce him to Prince Maurice, who is a dick and kills a nightingale. Crowley finds him and offers to bury the bird in the flowers. They aren't allowed to become friends, but do so anyway. Over time, they fall in love. Crowley tells Aziraphale that he sometimes feels more like a girl (genderfluid Crowley ftw), and Aziraphale tells him that he feels more like a boy (trans Aziraphale ftw). They're also both ace, and Crowley is touch- and kiss-averse. Before his 18th birthday, his dad has all spinning wheels destroyed. On his birthday he's supposed to marry Maurice, but Beelzebub enters once more and gives him a tiny spinning wheel as a present. Cue the 100 year sleep. Maurice tries to kiss him awake but is unable to. Crowley enters, has to fight a dragon (I'm unsure if I want Crowley to be able to turn into a snake but it would make for a fun fight). She kisses Aziraphale, very softly, chasely. Aziraphale wakes up, comes out as trans - he doesn't need to marry Maurice for the alliances anymore, and marries Crowley.

the end lol

This is very self-indulgent, and I just needed to get it out of my brain, because I can't stop thinking about it lol

[homestucksongcomics]

Masterpost of Song Comics Part I (A-K)

*Unfortunately, due to a peculiarity of tumblr, a post containing too many links will not have any of them function. Thus, the masterpost has been broken into two parts.*

Organized by musician alphabetically

Last updated on 07/18/2021

See Part II here: Masterpost of Homestuck Song Comics Part II (L-Z)

#:

Kryptonite - 3 Doors Down by absinthianlyunheroic

This is War - 30 Seconds to Mars by caffieneandcarpaltunnel

I’m Not Your Boyfriend Baby - 3HO!3 by awildcale

A:

Almost Lover - A Fine Frenzy by irlmako

New Tomorrow - A Friend In London by maria-artz

Hand Over Mouth, Over and Over - A Lot Like Birds by binart

Skyfall - Adele by stormfather

Song of Healing - Adriana Figueroa by talkshitnojutsu

Everything Stays - Adventure Time by starchip-one

Kiss my Eyes and Lay Me to Sleep - AFI by 413art

Prelude 12/21 - AFI by toastyhat

Another Day - Air by chubsintubs

A Whole New World - Aladdin by copper-fish

Mercy Me - Alkaline Trio by brainbent

Hothouse - Aly & AJ by dristr

Evelyn, Evelyn - Amanda Palmer by p-pamda

Luck - The American Authors by timehwimeh

21 Guns - American Idiot Cast by jankyweeaboo

Pittsburgh - The Amity Affliction by anafigreen

Inevitable - Anberlin by suchirolle

Ready to Die - Andrew W. K. by askherroyalcondesce

The Age of Not Believing - Angela Lansbury by toastyhat

Director - The Antlers by gin-and-djinn

Kettering - The Antlers by cloudymew

My Mamma Said - Aqua by xamag-homestuck

Suburbs - Arcade Fire by porrim-maryam and collaborators

Wake Up - Arcade Fire by catprinx

We Used to Wait - Arcade Fire by drawingspecibus

R U Mine? - Arctic Monkeys by dacadaca

The Ballad Of Love And Hate - The Avett Brothers by umjulikins

Hey Brother - Avicii by esmeblaise

Wake Me Up - Avicii by a-vodka-mutini

Sail - AWOLNATION by theamazingzombiegirl

B:

If I Die Young - The Band Perry by japhers

Memory - Barbra Strisand by toastyhat

Glitter and Gold - Barns Courtney by chibigaia-art

Daniel in the Den - Bastille by tomato-bird

Pompeii - Bastille by maria-artz Broken

Pompeii - Bastille by toastyhat and oskarna

Above the Clouds of Pompeii - Bear’s Den by groveofsketches

Let it Be - Beatles by toastyhat

The Fool on the Hill - The Beatles by robotoucan

All the Pretty Little Horses - Becky Jean Williams by purplecalamity

Pieces of Sky - Beth Orton by awildcale

Sweet Dreams - Beyoncé by dacadaca

River Below - Billy Talent by kamdensl

Rusted from the Rain - Billy Talent by crispychocolate

Just a Game - Birdy by redwordsoncavewalls

Kill the Lights - The Birthday Massacre by xamag-homestuck

Red Stars - The Birthday Massacre by lord-caliborn and tricotee

These Days - The Black Keys by digitallyimpaired

In the End - Black Veil Brides by rinasart

Let it Be - Blackmill (feat. Veela) by awildcale

Bad Sun - The Bravery by crashtest-therapist

Dear Agony - Breaking Benjamin by yukishii-chan

Diary of Jane - Breaking Benjamin by nevernoahh

Give Me a Sign - Breaking Benjamin by perceptur

I Will Not Bow - Breaking Benjamin by themockingcrows

First Day of My Life - Bright Eyes by usatoria

Can you feel my heart? - Bring me the horizon by domingoos and Yumegurren

Seeds - Brooke Fraser by anno-bannano Broken

Kodaline - Brother by zzpopzz

When I Was Your Man - Bruno Mars by babynarwalshineyeyes

P.O.W. - Bullet for My Valentine by anafigreen

C:

Angel with a Shotgun - The Cab by dawngyocry

How Are You - Cage the Elephant by facetiousfanatic Part 1

How Are You - Cage the Elephant by facetiousfanatic Part 2

How Are You - Cage the Elephant by facetiousfanatic Part 3

The loneliest Girl - Carol and Tuesday by cassandraooc

Morning Has Broken - Cat Stevens by thlange

Star Spangled Banner - Chase Holfelder by chillybuns

Between the Bars - Chris Garneau by roselalondee

Dirty Night Clown - Chris Garneau by idontevenknow-anymore

Dirty Night Clown - Chris Garneau by immabananana

Enter the Circus - Christina Aguilera by askinsanegamzee Broken

A Thousand Years - Christina Perii by angstyelf

A Thousand Years - Christina Perii by mari-victal

Burning Gold - Christina Perri by raspberrylemonhead

Fall - Cider Sky by nevernoahh

Falling (Demo) - The Civil Wars by zomdi

Safe and Sound - The Civil Wars by karaokekarkat

Hum - Clara C by nymphicus

3 Foot Tall - Classifed by kyrah-art

Summer Day - Coconut Records by kathysbrotherssister

Fondu au Noir - Coeur de Pirate by derperistical

Fix You - Coldplay by absinthianlyunheroic

Paradise - Coldplay by Moonpaw

The Scientist - Coldplay by ikimaru

Up with the Birds - Coldplay by the-rag-tag-earl

Viva la Vida - Coldplay by raspberrylemonhead

Viva La Vida - Coldplay by rozeart

Yellow - Coldplay by mariedisgrace

Young Volcanos - Coldplay by kawo-shin

Princess of China - Coldplay (feat. Rihanna) by sora-la

Chin Up - Copeland by vriskamidfangserket

Accidentally in Love - Counting Crows by hopelesslyblithe Broken

Crywank are posers - Crywank by p-666t

D:

Thrice - Daedalus by foramen-magnum

Something About Us - Daft Punk by moxel

Something About Us - Daft Punk by yazzdonut

Emotion - Daft Punk (MissingNo remix) by doomzy

The Spine - Darren Korb (Transistor) by rose-ebottles Broken

Youth - Daughter by zelpixel

Raise Your Weapon - Deadmau5 by marintan

Go Get Your Gun - The Dear Hunter by mcsiggy

Whisper - The Dear Hunter by prospt and collaborators

I Will Follow You Into the Dark - Death Cab for Cutie by davsturdur

I Will Follow You into the Dark - Death Cab for Cutie by inusushi

I Will Follow You Into the Dark - Death Cab for Cutie by kawaiifarts

Bottom of the River - Delta Rae by wwhatevven

Perfect Insanity - Disturbed by vasheren

Just Be Friends (Instrumental) - Dixie Flatline by cheese3d Inspired by Litlte Red Riding Hood

Pity Dance - Dn Stith by jazzango

Venus Hum - Do You Want to Fight Me by shubbabang

Everything You Ever - Doctor Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog by thesassylorax

My Eyes - Doctor Horrible’s Sing-Along Blog by equiu5

Close Every Door - Donny Osmond by allegro-designs

Baby Mine - Dumbo by gayrupunzel

E:

I See Fire - Ed Sheeran by arachnerdsgri

I See Fire - Ed Sheeran by themockingcrows

Small Bump - Ed Sheeran by janecrockeyre

Cosmic Castaway - Electrasy by themockingcrows

Telephone Line - Electric Light Orchestra by daily-beta

You are my Sunshine - Elizabeth Mitchell by the-rag-tag-earl

Goodnight Sweet Ladies - Emilie Autumn by amporasexual

Asleep - Emily Browning (originally by The Smiths) by joker-ace

O Come O Come Emmanuel - Enya by pseudocon

One for the Money - Escape the Fate by ikimaru

Follow the Sun - Evermore by ladygrit

Fever Dreamless - fadeintocase by peregr1ne

F:

Centuries - Fall Out Boy by sixofclovers

Immortals - Fall Out Boy by etcterrayellowmoon

Immortals - Fall Out Boy by mari-victal

Immortals - Fall Out Boy by quiversarrow

My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark (Light Em Up) - Fall Out Boy by toastyhat

The Kids Aren’t All Right - Fall Out Boy by i-am-a-riceball

The Kids Aren’t All Right - Fall Out Boy by scarlettheknight

The Last of the Real Ones - Fall Out Boy by dopingues

The Phoenix - Fall Out Boy by orangelemonart

Caught Like a Fly - Falling in Reverse by viria

Tragic Magic - Falling in Reverse by elasticitymudflap

Heavy Storm - First Aid Kit by moxel

Wolf - First Aid Kit by spooneaterarts

100 years - Five for Fighting by orangelemonart

Superman - Five for Fighting by grimbarke

Hurt Feelings - Flight of the Conchords by koroke

Rise - Flobots by lyricstuckbeatdown

Blinding - Florence + the Machine by collaborative

Cosmic Love - Florence + the Machine by rosemaryserver

Cosmic Love - Florence + the Machine by starkthirdeye

Cosmic Love - Florence + the Machine by toastyhat

Dog Days Are Over - Florence + the Machine by greatbiglyricstuck

Dog Days are Over - Florence + the Machine by m0thboy

Girl With One Eye - Florence + the Machine by kingdomzombified

Kiss With a Fist - Florence + the Machine by miraculoustang

No Light, No Light - Florence + the Machine by dacadaca

No Light, No Light - Florence + the Machine by nappotuna

Only If for a Night - Florence + the Machine by glueball

Seven Devils - Florence + the Machine by fangirlinginleatherboots

Seven Devils - Florence + the Machine by themockingcrows

Shake it Out - Florence + the Machine by cod-tier

Tear out my Tongue - Florence + the Machine by wheresmyhamlet

What the Water Gave Me - Florence + the Machine by colonoscolypseart

With an Axe - Foxy Shazam by oldshiel

Something Stupid - Frank and Nancy Sinatra by toastyhat

Some Nights - Fun. by greatbiglyricstuck

G:

Mad World - Gary Jules by ahabsiconoclast

Mad World - Gary Jules by prospitheir and aze

Mad World - Gary Jules by synnesai

Where Everybody Knows Your Name - Gary Portnoy by calliotp

Child of Light - The Getaway Plan by dingohugs

It All Dies Anyway - The Gits by skittykitty55

Take Me Away - Globus by toastyhat and splickedylit

You’re the One That I Want - Grease by doodlebonez

Top of the World - Greek Fire by eggsand-santoast

Song of the Century - Green Day by babakinkin

Song of the Century - Green Day by delinked

Song of the century - Green Day by the-rogue-0f-light

Boats and Birds - Gregory and the Hawk by striderprovider

Hard Knocks - Griffinilla and Alex Cole by colouredteapot

H:

Colors - Hasley by innocuoussketches

Anything - Hedley by valeriannnn

The Unquiet Grave - Hellen McCrocry by madreamcanular

Coming Back Down - Hollywood Undead by flynnagan

Coming Back Down - Hollywood Undead by skittykitty55

Levitate - Hollywood Undead by anafigreen

SCAVA - Hollywood Undead by scarlettheknight

Temporal Shenanigans - Homestuck ost - Rachel Macwhirter by arachnerdsgrip:

Almost (Sweet Music) - Hozier by metaname

Take Me To Church - Hozier by sailerscrimshaw Broken

God Help the Outcasts - Hunchback of Notre Dame by velocitiestrumpet

The Court of Miracles - Hunchback of Notre Dame by moc-tod-ffuts-modnar

That’s Okay - The Hush Sound by porcupet

Where We Went Wrong - The Hush Sound by canni8al

Wine Red - The Hush Sound by zeborah

I:

Volatile Times - IAMX by xamag-homestuck

Bad Karma - Ida Maria by margarethours

Amsterdam - Imagine Dragons by paperseverywhere

Bleeding Out - Imagine Dragons by rapidopatter

Demons - Imagine Dragons by muraokami Broken

Demons - Imagine Dragons by rapidopatter

Fallen - Imagine Dragons by maria-artz Broken

I'm So Sorry - Imagine Dragons by abbiwhozit

I'm So Sorry - Imagine Dragons by catkindness Part 1

I'm So Sorry - Imagine Dragons by catkindness Part 2

Nothing Left to Say - Imagine Dragons by paperseverywhere

On Top of the World - Imagine Dragons by lickfoot

Radioactive - Imagine Dragons by falloutboyonboy

Radioactive - Imagine Dragons by rachelhungry

Thief - Imagine Dragons by mikimosh

Warriors - Imagine Dragons by turretsyndr0me

Hide and Seek - Imogen Heap by kingdomzelaybli

The Devil’s Carnival - In all My Dreams I Drown by artblogofminji

Don’t Stop - InnerPartySystem by spocktalia Broken

What We Will Never Know - InnerPartySystem by lets-lyricstuck

Cinders and Smoke - Iron & Wine by laughingandgrief

Walk the Moon - Iscariot by cissaisthisyou

The Weekend - Islands by daily-beta

J:

R.I.P. Everyone - J.J. Demon by trickstercarlos

Fallin’ - Jake Bugg by awildcale

I Won’t Give Up - Jason Mraz by impudentkid

I’ll Be Good - Jaymes Young by asexualls Broken

Sufferer’s Final Sermon - jbriner by sketchloft

Be Thou My Vision - jbriner (originally a hymn) by mrdespondency

O Death - Jen Titus by canni8al

Oh Death - Jen Titus by artweaver5

If the World Should End - Jennifer Damiano by atrueenglishman

The Hanging Tree - Jennifer Lawrence by sixofclovers

Highwayman - Johnny Cash by toastyhat

What A Wonderful World - Joseph William Morgan ft. Shadow Royale by jayspants

The Stars - Jukebox the Ghost by innocuoussketches

K:

Die Young - Ke$ha by gelasticat

[S] Ke$ha: Enter - Ke$ha (Die Young Remix by captaincrapster) by ket3

Because of You - Kelly Clarkson by timehost

Breakaway - Kelly Clarkson by karaokeoctoberkat

Britland City Theme - Kenashcorp by stormfather

Animals - Kids in Glass Houses by faun-songs

Dustland Fairytale - The Killers by spiritleaf

Mr. Brightside - The Killers by mlle-annette

Sam´s Town - The Killers by gei-may

Smile Like You Mean It - The Killers by toastyhat

I Will Never Forget - Kimya Dawson by moxel

All I Want - Kodaline by godtier8itch

[terrific-togekiss]

What if Pokémon Legends went on to other Regions?

This has been a topic of the Pokémon fandom for awhile. With the announcement of Pokémon Legends: Arceus not too long ago, many fans are anticipating and speculating the future of this ambitious side series.

Being able to not only witness, learn and partake in the legends that shape both the regions and Legendary Pokémon, leaves much room for creativity.

This is all merely speculation.

Here's my take for how any future Pokémon Legends games could play out.

Pokémon Legends: Mew

Set about roughly 20 years before the events of Pokémon Red, Blue and Yellow, the elusive Mew makes an appearance in the Kanto Region.

This prompts many scientists to want to study and catch the original Pokémon, foreshadowing the creation of Mewtwo and the Ditto.

You, the player, are taken under the wing of a much younger Professor Oak, with the Gen 1 Gym Leaders also showing up to lend a hand.

As the plot focuses on you tracking down Mew before various criminals and an older Team Rocket, try to for their own nefarious purposes. Helping Professor Oak invent the Pokédex and with his research.

Gene splicing and gene testing on Pokémon grew after the War LT. Surge fought in, with an older Team Rocket using it to their advantage.

This Team Rocket being a much bigger criminal organization, before the player took them down and a smaller one appeared in Pokémon Red, Blue and Yellow.

A younger Giovanni is also present, as the player gets to know the man that would go on to lead present day Team Rocket. He's a friend to the player... for now, giving some insight on who he was beforehand and show how he took over the criminal organization, setting up the events Pokémon Red, Blue and Yellow.

Mew's appearance in the Kanto region, inspires him to the point of illegal gene testing on Pokémon.

As a nod to Pokémon first debuting in 1996, the game takes on a more of a late 60s to mid 70s aesthetic, so it feels like the player is shaping the legends that set up Gen 1 of Pokémon.

Plus Kanto in the Legends artstyle would be mindblowing. And take inspiration from 60s to 70s Japan.

In addition, to avoid looking too similar to Pokémon Legends: Arceus. Being more of a modern era Japan region, than a Meiji period Japan inspired region. While following in said game's footsteps, by focusing on the secondary legendary than the main one (Mewtwo).

The starters would be Chikorita (Gen 1 is about Nature vs Technology), Torchic (Peace and War aesthetic) and Popplio (60s to 70s definitely saw a rise in many famous and popular musicians).

Pokémon Legends: Celebi

Ever wonder the origins of the Legendary Beasts: Raikou, Suicine and Entei?

What they were before they were killed in Brass Tower revived by Ho-Oh? How Ho-Oh came down and choose them, saving their lives? The sea Lugia stays in the deep for? The early days of Johto? The ruins of Alpha in the past? The early days of the Kimino Girls?

Well now you, the player, do now! ...sort of. As the title of the game implies, the player meets and befriends Celebi and gets to see many of these events via time travel.

Not only would this include a huge mechanic separate from other Legends games, but it would be the most unique in how it could be approached. As Nintendo is no stranger to time travel games (e.g. Majora's Mask) that impact both the plot and gameplay.

Time travel tends to create stories that are very confusing or very heartwrenching. Or both. But I have no doubt it would be the latter.

It also leaves room for many side quests.

Starters would be Bulbasaur (Time is all about growth), Scorbunny (Bunny Rabbits are not only a common symbol in the older days of Japan, but of Spring much like Ho-Oh) and Froakie (ninjas were more prevalent during this time period, as they slowly faded out).

Pokémon Legends: Jirachi

1000 years before the events of Pokémon Emerald, (Omega) Ruby and (Alpha) Sapphire, chaos raged across the ancient Hoenn Region, between two legendary Pokémon: Groudon and Kyogre. The Draconid people hope and pray for the arrival of Rayquaza to save the Hoenn Region itself.

This is where the player steps in: in order for all this chaos to end, the wishes of the people must be heard. And the only Pokémon capable of that is Jirachi.

The player would go around helping wishes be granted, traveling and training Pokémon along the way.

An ancestor of Zinnia also makes an appearance as a friend and rival of the player.

To maintain the wishes and stars aesthetic, Deoxys also makes an appearance with its origin being explored. Being able to explore space itself, meeting Pokémon said to have an "alien" origin, like Elgyem and Beheeyem.

Latios and Latias can also be caught, flying on them just like in Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire.

The meteor that would hit the future Sootopolis is what awakened Groudon and Kyogre, said Meteor containing Deoxys. Setting up the game's plot.

Since it's roughly 1000 years before the Gen 3 Pokémon games, Hoenn resembles and takes inspiration from Japan during the Heian period.

The starters would be Turtwig (Theme of continents being at stake), Chimchar (Japanese and Chinese relations) and Totodile (sea monster symbolism, which is often associated with crocodiles and related animals).

Pokémon Legends: The Dragon

Two Princes, of Galar origin, known as the "Twin Heroes" share the power of an unimaginable Legendary Dragon. Bringing Truth and Ideals to the people of Unova. They live and lead from Relic Castle.

You, the player, are a friend of the princes and over the course of the game, your alliance with them changes. Struggling to choose between Truth or Ideals. Serving as a major story mechanic.

A feud and disagreement between the Princes happen, with the player being caught in the middle and to try to quell the anger of the Dragon.

In addition to finally seeing Reshiram and Zekrom before they split, Victini is also present with the Swords of Justice Pokémon (Cobalion, Virizion, and Terrakion), the Forces of Nature (Tornadus, Thundurus, and Landorus) and even Meloetta tries to raise people's spirits.

Team Plasma's origins are alluded to, with the army of the Princes baring an odd resemblance to the future evil team.

The game has more of a wild western aesthetic since Unova is based on New York. Think late 18th century America. With horseback riding on Pokémon like Zebstrika and Rapidash, bandits and criminals that try to steal your Pokémon and being able to explore Unova in its entirety.

Or perhaps roaring 20s to 30s America. If that setting sounds more vibrant and close to the Unova of Gen 5. This is all still speculation.

You even get to ride Keldeo in a later part of the game.

The starters would be Chespin (Chesnaught is based on a Glyptodon; fossils were found in South America), Litten (Wrestling is popular in New York) and Mudkip (mudpuppies are found in Lake Michigan).

Pokémon Legends: Diancie

Set after the Kalos War, you the player are caught in the middle of it going off to fight with your Pokémon. Hoping to make a difference as the Professor (ancestor of Professor Sycamore) takes you under his wing. And hoping to help the war turned world that is Kalos.

Yveltal and Xernas have both gone into slumber, with Zygarde needing to be restored to at least 50% (player can go to 100%), so the world of Kalos can be healed from this war.

The main game focuses on Diancie: since Diancie is the Pokémon of diamonds, the war has forced soldiers and leaders to exhaust the many resources of the Kalos region. Particularly precious stones and diamonds.

The player befriends Diancie later in the game as the two work together to bring an end the greedy hearts of those involved.

The game resembles France during the 100 Years War, with the player character even having armor as part of their attire. Due to Kalos being based off of France, roughly Middle Ages or Medieval France in this game's case.

AZ also makes a few appearances in the game, racked with grief over firing the Ultimate Weapon, mostly keeping to himself over the game's plot.

As a new gameplay mechanic, the player can befriend other trainers to amass armies to overcome many challenges, like beating other armies and crossing obstacles.

Volcanion and Hoopa are also present in the game and can be caught.

The origins of Mega Evolutions are expanded on, with the player getting their hands on some Mega Stones. Due to the energy of the Ultimate Weapon.

The starters would be Snivy (said Pokémon is based on French nobility), Piplup (Empoleon is based off of Emperors and can be a nod to Napoleon) and Charmander (Charizard is based off of European Dragons).

Pokémon Legends: Marshadow

Set in the ancient Aloha region, when Tribes followed the Tapu Pokémon, you the player find yourself stranded in this intriguing region.

Ultra space wormholes begin opening across the region and its up to the player to figure out why and how to stop them. Even being able to traverse the Ultra Megalopolis in its entirety.

Necrozma is up to it and the player must learn why. With Marshadow playing a bigger role, since most of its origin is shrouded in mystery, so this would be a great opportunity to explore those origins.

Along with the origins of the Z-Crystals.

The game has more of an ancient Polynesian world, seeing as how Aloha is based of Hawaii. Being able to sail to smaller islands and even catch Pokémon while doing so.

The starters would be Grookey (drums are a popular musical instrument in the tropics), Sobble (chameleons are native to Hawaii) and Tepig (pigs have been brought to Polynesian Islands in the past).

Pokémon Legends: Zarude

3000 years, before the events of Pokémon Sword and Shield, a black storm covers the very region itself. This black storm causes Pokémon to randomly Dynamax and Gigantamax. Many live in fear of what the next day brings, as hope of a better day seems like only a naive dream.

The player joins with many Pokémon researchers (some being ancestors of familiar faces in Pokémon Sword and Shield), in order to track down the source of this chaos.

Zarude comes in as he helps providing with resources from various forests, so less Pokémon and people are harmed. Or worse.

The player believes tracking down Zarude, will lead them to stopping this madness (Eternatus).

The game looks much like 13th to 14th century Britain, in much of the fashion of characters and even dealing with the equivalent of a plague. Ironically enough.

The starters are Treecko (Forest theme and light in the dark theme in contrast to the Darkest Days), Fenniken (Magicians are a common Middle Ages motif) and Squirtle (Cannons were first invented in Europe, around this time period).

[askamydaily]

This year -- put a Book on EVERY Bed

This year: put a Book on EVERY Bed

By “Ask Amy” advice columnist Amy Dickinson

10 December, 2020

Dear Readers: Every year at Christmastime, I delight in promoting a Book on Every Bed. I do so in memory of my mother, Jane, who raised her children to understand that if you have a book, you are never alone.

The idea originally came from historian David McCollough, who recounted the Christmas mornings of his youth, when the very first thing he woke up to was a wrapped book at the base of his bed, left there by Santa.

The most important part is what happens next: Family members reading together.

That’s it! That’s the whole idea!

Over the last ten years, working with my local literacy partner Children’s Reading Connection (childrensreadingconnection.org), this campaign has grown to include schools, libraries and bookstores, who have donated scores of books to families that might not have access to them. The goal – and our dream – is that families will experience the intimate and personal connection of diving into and sharing stories, the way my mother and I did throughout her life.

Over the years, important literacy advocates, such as the Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden and LeVar Burton, and bestselling children’s authors Brad Meltzer and Peter Reynolds, have endorsed and helped to spread the good word.

This year is different. So many of us are alone, hurting, and separated from family and familiar holiday routines.

All of us – not just children – need a good book on our beds.

I have broadened the scope to include specific recommendations for books spanning all ages. I’ve reached out to some of my favorite writers, literacy advocates, and independent booksellers across the country for their special picks.

Whether you purchase a book or share an old favorite, I hope you will be inspired to put A Book on Every Bed this year. It is not necessary to make a Christmas deadline – this idea is one to sustain people throughout what might shape up to be a very long winter.

Following are recommendations for all age groups.

Baby and Toddlers: From Brigid Hubberman, Children’s Reading Connection, Ithaca, NY (childrensreadingconnection.org):

“Words are the language of love for babies.  The best books for infants should be about the world they know. Parents should choose books to surround babies with an abundance of loving and delightful words.”

Baby Cakes, by Karma Wilson and Sam Williams

Haiku Baby, by Betsy E. Snyder

Shine Baby Shine, by Leslie Staub and Lori Nichols

Ages 3-5: From Lisa Swaze, Buffalo Street Books, Ithaca, NY (Buffalostreetbooks.com)

“If You Come to Earth,” by Sophie Blackall is one of my favorite picture books of 2020. This book is beautiful both visually and lyrically, and it will feel like a warm hug to any child or family who receives it.

“You Matter,” by Christian Robinson is a bright and elegant book that takes children on a journey around the world to make it clear that everyone matters, and perhaps more importantly, reassure them that they matter, no matter what they look like or where they are from.

Early Readers: From Sandra Dear, owner of The Little Boho Bookshop, in Bayonne, NJ (thelittlebohobookshop.com)

“The Suitcase,” by Chris Naylor-Ballesteros: This beautiful story about immigration, is full of heart and humanity as it teaches our littlest ones about hope, tolerance and kindness.

“Home in the Woods,” by Eliza Wheeler: This stunningly beautiful picture book has fast become a customer favorite. A story about starting over, of overcoming! A story of family, love and joy of being and growing together.

Middle Grade Readers: From Becky Anderson, co-owner of Anderson’s Bookshop, in Naperville, Illinois (andersonsbookshops.com):

“Ways to Make Sunshine,” by Renee Watson: Watson writes her own version of Ramona Quimby, one starring a Black girl and her family, in this start to a charming new middle grade series about spirit, kindness, and sunshine.  Ryan, a fourth grader, finds the positive in difficult situations and when trouble strikes. She is that character to love and bring in the sunshine!  Grades 3-6

Skunk and Badger by Amy Timberlake, illustrated by Jon Klassen: Winnie-the-Pooh and Frog and Toad meet in a fresh take on a classic odd-couple friendship.  Klassen’s illustrations add much to a story of an unlikely friendship that proves that opposites can see the good in one another. The first in a series.  Grades 3-7

“The Silver Arrow,” by Lev Grossman: Kate’s humdrum life is transformed when her eccentric Uncle Herbert brings her a colossal locomotive train, the Silver Arrow, as her eleventh birthday gift, leading her and her younger brother on a mysterious journey.  The train will remind readers of the Hogwart’s Express. A story that is environmentally aware and calls readers to action. Perfect for fans of Roald Dahl and The Chronicles of Narnia.  Grades 3-7

YA Readers: Danielle Kreger, Blue Bunny Books, Dedham, MA (bluebunnybooks.com):  "One of Us is Lying" by Karen M McManus: An edge of your seat mystery that takes place in Bayview High school during detention. Simon, a so-called "outcast," never makes it out of detention alive. What follows is a tale of twists and turns that has the reader questioning the reliability of the characters, and the secrets they keep.

"Burn" by Patrick Ness: A fast-paced young adult fantasy that begins with fifteen-year-old Sarah, who meets Kazimir – a dragon who has been hired to help on her family's farm. Still reeling from the death of her mother, Sarah finds herself feeling an intense and unusual connection with Kazimir. As the story unfolds secrets, dangers and Kazimir's true purpose are revealed.

"The New Kid" by Jerry Craft: A spot-on graphic novel about navigating a new school, new friends and identity. Jordan Banks is in seventh grade when he is sent to a rigorous private school and grapples with staying true to himself- his love for creating cartoons, how to maintain his old friends and how he fits in in a less than diverse new school. A totally lovable and relatable character!

Adult Non-fiction: From Alex George, the author, most recently, of The Paris Hours, founder and director of the Unbound Book Festival, and the owner of Skylark Bookshop, in Columbia, MO (skylarkbookshop.com)

“Wintering,” by Katherine May: This is a deeply personal, quietly beautiful book, written with grace and immense thoughtfulness. We all go through difficult times; by mulling over her responses to her own misfortunes, the author offers insight as to how we might think differently about low points in our lives. Instructive, inspiring, and ultimately profoundly hopeful.

“The Book of Delights,” by Ross Gay: This utterly charming book of micro-essays by Ross Gay, a beloved and renowned poet, is a perfect gift for – well, just about anyone. Gay set himself the challenge of finding one thing that delighted him each day for a year, and then writing about it. The result is a quirky, brilliant book that you can dip in and out of, always finding something to make you smile, and think. A guaranteed lifter of spirits.

“Intimations: Six Essays,” by Zadie Smith: I’ve always loved Zadie Smith’s nonfiction work, and this small but powerful book shows her talents at their finest. Written during the pandemic, these six pieces are sharp, and funny, and thought-provoking. Smith’s deeply personal reflections on this strangest of years is essential reading. If ever there was a book for these strange times, it’s this one.

Adult Fiction: Mark LaFramboise, Senior Book Buyer at Politics and Prose in Washington, DC (politics-prose.com)

“The Butterfly Lampshade,” by Aimee Bender: This is a beautiful story of mental illness, the bonds of sisterhood, and the liveliness of a child's imagination.  Francie is 8 years old when the book begins, the daughter of a single mom.  This is the story of her odyssey after her mother is committed to a mental hospital, and she is sent to be raised by an aunt and uncle.

“Luster,” by Raven Leilani: Edie, the young protagonist in Luster, Raven Leilani's debut novel, is daring, sexy, hilarious, super smart, and drop dead beautiful.  Her affair with a married man takes a turn for the strange when she meets and befriends the man's wife and daughter.  Edie is whip smart because Raven Leilani is whip smart and her voice propels this beguiling novel.

“What Are You Going Through,” by Sigrid Nunez: Sigrid Nunez writes so beautifully that plot feels irrelevant.  The writer's confidence and authority are apparent from the first page.  Ultimately, it's the story of a woman who is asked by an old college acquaintance to be with her when she takes her life, after a cancer diagnosis.  But, like her previous book The Friend (about a woman who inherits a large Great Dane), it doesn't matter what story she tells because her words bristle with life.

Elders: Gayle Shanks, Changing Hands Bookstore, in Tempe and Phoenix, AZ

(changinghands.com)

“Apeirogon,” by Colum McCann: Two fathers, one Palestinian and one Israeli have both lost their young daughters to violence but have decided that reconciliation, not revenge, is what they needed to seek. In the process, they became best friends. McCann describes the insanity and senseless violence bred in the Middle East, the Occupation under which the Palestinians are forced to live, but also the beauty of the country, the migration of birds, the many ways humans overcome adversity and find solace in the natural world and each other. In a series of 1001 fragments, McCann walks us through his imaginary polygon, the Apeirogon of the title, containing an infinite number of sides, an infinite number of gorgeous sentences, and ultimately an infinite number of ways to view the human condition.  

“All the Way to the Tigers,” by Mary Morris: Travel writer Mary Morris’ book, written in small chapters, was in some ways similar to reading Colum McCann's, Aperagon, also written in small bits (in his case 1001, in Mary's -- 112 chapters). Morris travels to India in search of the elusive Bengal tiger, but in so many ways she is searching for herself and her place in the world as she recovers from a serious ankle injury that leaves her debilitated but determined.  

In her short vignettes, she quotes Rilke, Wendell Berry, other writers she admires and reminds us how important it is to listen intently to others as in active listening we are rewarded with deeper understanding.

“The Chair Rocks,” by Ashton Applewhite: From childhood on, we’re barraged by messages that it’s sad to be old. That wrinkles are embarrassing, and old people useless. Author and activist Ashton Applewhite believed them too—until she realized where this prejudice comes from and the damage it does. Lively, funny, and deeply researched, This Chair Rocks traces Applewhite’s journey from apprehensive boomer to pro-aging radical, and in the process debunks myth after myth about late life. The book explains the roots of ageism—in history and in our own age denial. Whether you’re older or hoping to get there, this book will shake you by the shoulders, cheer you up, make you mad, and change the way you see the rest of your life. Age pride!  

[hireath24]

Everything wrong with ACOFAS: A Rant Part Three

Disclaimer: This is part three and will continue from pages 97 to 150. Part one can be found here. Part Two can be found here. Part four can be found here. These page numbers come from the UK paperback edition of A Court of Frost and Starlight. This is my own opinion of the book - the writing, the grammar, the characters, etc. I won’t be commenting on anything that may have been plagiarized or that has been ripped off from the history of other cultures as SJM has a tendency to do. If you disagree with my opinions, I’m sorry and hope you see the error in your ways.

Page 99: Saying ‘wine will make you feel better’ really gives off the wrong impression when this is a book targeted at young kids. I mean, it’s written for the YA genre which is typically categorized for ages 12 and up. 

Page 101: I’m so fed up of people talking badly about Nesta. Having Amren say ‘That’s if she shows up sober’ when she has walked in to see Feyre, Cassian and Azriel all drinking wine? Feyre and Cassian being ‘drunk’? Double standard! Unfair! 

Page 102: So Elain managed to become a seer with the cauldron, right? So… Are there other people - sorry, Fae - who are seers? Why does the cauldron affect people in different ways? 

Page 107: Amren was turned into a High Fae in the last book, which means that she no longer has to drink blood as food. But why did she ever have to drink blood? I don’t think it was ever explained. Why?

Page 108: Elain asks Amren if she could have taken on a male form and Amren replies with ‘Before, in my other form, I was neither. I simply was.’ Was that supposed to be SJM’s cheap shot at adding some gender diversity? Because I would have loved to see Amren be this non-binary power house asexual dragon but who has time for that but she uses she/her pronouns throughout the entire series and this is the only mention of her being able to switch between genders. 

Page 112: ‘…A few drunk revelers spotted us and fell silent. Felt Rhys’s power, perhaps my own as well, and found somewhere else to be for a while.’ Why would they want to find somewhere else to be as soon as their High Lord and High Lady show up? Why are they showing fear at the feeling of their power? Aren’t Feyre and Rhys supposed to be the good guys? This reads a lot like the people of Velaris are scared of them…

Page 115: ‘Gentlemales’ GENTLEMALES. GENTLEMALES. GENTLE FUCKING MALES?!?!?!?!

Page 116: ‘Indeed, some people were turning our way.’ This is just… This word is useless in general but in this book? I don’t think it was edited properly. 

Page 118: ‘A scene. This was about to become a scene in the worst way.’ SJM does this quite a lot in this book. These little two sentences where she says something and then expands on that something. It was used twice before already and I didn’t write it down because I thought it was just a writing choice but… it’s a poor one. It feels like a way to get the word count up somehow and, quite frankly, it’s bad writing.

  Page 118: Feyre is annoyed that Nesta is asking for her to pay her rent? How else does she suppose that Nesta should pay for her rent? She had a home that was taken from her back in the human world (that was taken from her because of Feyre, mind you) and all she asks is that Feyre pay her rent because she doesn’t have a job in fairy land? That seems pretty reasonable. Feyre shouldn’t be mad. 

Page 121: ‘But those were her deaths to claim.’ Why does everything have to be paid with death? I think it would be a lot more empowering if Mor would meet with those who wronged her, say something about them and her and just walk out of their lives entirely? SJM should start preaching forgiveness a little bit more but, hey, that’s just my opinion. Plus, this is really making Rhys seem like a bad ruler. Wanting to kill his enemies? No. 

Page 122: ‘Keir is coming soon, isn’t he.’ Yeah, no, this wasn’t edited. 

Page 122: ‘When.’ 

Page 125: ‘Az has a list of kingdoms most likely to cross the line.’ I’m wondering why the Night Court is in charge? Why does Rhysand get to decide which kingdoms and courts cross the line? Why does he get to decide where the line is? 

Page 126: As I said for Page 118, Rhysand says: ‘Tempting. So damn tempting to tell…’ See what I mean? 

Page 126: If Rhysand deals with conflict by fighting fire with fire, then his court is going to fall apart. Why is he allowed to get away with attacking Tamlin the way he did? What are the basic rules of the court - any of the courts? Surely the people wouldn’t want an insufficient ruler so do they get a say in it? WHY ARE THE HIGH LORDS ALLOWED TO ACT LIKE BLOODTHIRSTY BEASTS?! 

Page 126: ‘Too long. She’d been cooped up within the borders of this court for too long.’ Wow, once you tune into it…

Page 127: I really want to make one thing clear. Not every piece of dialogue has to have a tag attached to it. Sometimes things work much better if you just use ‘I said’ or ‘he/she/they said.’ At least then it would mean less lines such as this ‘I laughed again. ‘Certainly not Amren. Not if we want peace,’ I added.’

Page 127: Also, Rhysand ‘want(s) peace’? Bullshit. Not seven paragraphs ago did he laugh about Mor wanting Tamlin dead and a page ago he was tempted to tell ‘the High Lord of Autumn that his eldest son coveted his throne.’ Do not think for one second that Rhys is a level headed ruler. SJM has a tendency to tell us that he is rather than show it. 

Page 128: ‘…Even the wine I’d returned home to drink couldn’t dull.’ Teaching young, impressionable people that alcohol might solve some of your problems. Great. And what - Feyre can say this but Nesta can’t drink? 

Page 129: ‘Decadent - it felt decadent…’ I really wished I had never picked up on this.

Page 129: Feyre keeps complaining about the amount of work she has to do but here she is shopping with Elain? When her people are scared, heartbroken, without a home and in mourning after the war?

  Page 129: ‘So different. This place was so different…’ ON THE SAME FUCKING PAGE?!??!

Page 131: So I guess that nobody ever told SJM that a character description goes beyond eye colour, hair colour and clothes? 

Page 133: ‘I might ease that grief, make the pain less.’ Feyre’s powers allow her to do that? When, why, how and fucking what?

Page 134: ‘I was lucky - so tremendously lucky.’ 

Page 134: Rhys was dead and he was brought back to life, right? It wasn’t like with Feyre’s death where she was still slightly conscious because she could hear what was going on, no. No, with Rhysand’s death, he really was dead. But he was brought back to life and somehow… feels nothing from this? I would love to see if there are times where his body becomes slightly misty and ghostlike, if his veins turn black under his skin because they had stopped working during that brief moment of death. I would have loved to see something other than just him feeling a little bit tired!

Page 134: ‘How.’ 

Page 135: I’s very clear to me that, for whatever reason, SJM wanted Feyre to be able to paint but she has no idea how to write about it. Whilst Feyre is painting, we only read about her need to create and what the end result looks like. Even during her process we hear nothing about light and perspective and I’m not a painter but there’s a true science behind it. And where is she getting the paints from? Rhys was able to give her some with his magic but from where?

  Page 138: It disgusts me that Feyre thinks that she can solve the people of the Night Court’s problems by teaching them how to paint. These people went through a war! And before that it was Under the Mountain! Painting and creating art in general can help with recovery from mental illness and trauma and PTSD and depression and everything else, but there comes a point where therapy is needed. Memorials are needed, ceremonies are needed. How are people supposed to paint what they feel when they can’t understand what they feel? It’s bullshit and, really, quite a childish thing to even suggest. How is this a ruler? 

Page 139: Why do jigsaw puzzles exist. Why are they called jigsaw puzzles. SJM is not a high fantasy writer. 

Page 140: ‘Good thing indeed.’ You guys know how I feel about this word by now, right? 

Page 140: ‘Indeed, each seemed like a different decade.’ So the fashion changes with time, does it? Great! Tell me more. Tell me why and how and when. Also, indeed.

Page 143: ‘The females bring their jewellery. I bring my weapons.’ But Cassian is a feminist, right? Yeah, no, guys, it’s alright. He’s a feminist, it’s all fine. 

Page 146: ‘You being too drunk to climb the stairs last night.’ I’m really not okay with the amount of casual drinking in this book - and not only that but the way it’s treated. Nesta is shamed for it, Feyre mentions that even wine can’t help her, Rhys makes jokes about his friends being drunk. It sends a really bad message. 

Page 147: ‘Illyrian baby indeed.’ 

Page 147: I’ve said this before but someone should really tell SJM that every scene in a book should further the plot. This has been three pages of bickering, useless drivel about a bed being too small for Cassian and cheap jokes about alcohol. The entire thing could be cut and the story wouldn’t change. 

Page 148: ‘Indeed, as Feyre emerged from the kitchen hallway…’

Page 148: ‘Strange - so strange to see…’

Page 149: ‘Indeed.’

Page 150: ‘Mor was instantly on her feet, offering - insisting on wine.’ This is just teaching kids that you need alcohol to be able to have a good time! Which isn’t true in the slightest! And it’s wrong on so many levels - especially insisting that everyone has wine! Peer pressure?? SJM deals with sensitive issues so badly (see what I said in another post about Rhysand and sexual assault) that it’s… It’s hard. Yikes.

[gallows-into-oblivion]

why my canon Hawke gave Isabela to the Arishok

(sarcastic rogue Hawke who took Bethany but not Anders to the Deep Roads, who is at 100% friendship with all party members, and who sides with mages.)

he doesn't want to have to kill the Arishok. he's just lost his mother. he watched his brother and sister die in front of him and he was powerless to stop it from happening. he's exhausted.

he's sick of death. he's sick of being the cause of death.

also, Isabela is a whole adult. she knew the consequences for stealing the relic. she stole it twice.

Hawke is tired. he respects the Arishok. he wants the least possible bloodshed. if that means giving Isabela to the Arishok, then that's what he'll do.

idk i think a lot of times people downplay Isabela's agency in this whole thing. she knows full well what she's doing by running away with the relic close to the end of act 2. she does it anyway. and what, Hawke has to suffer her consequences? after he's already suffered so fucking much?

something that all of the companions in da2 do is they try to make Hawke deal with their problems. they give Hawke far more power than anyone should have over another person's life. it's not just the companions who do this -- e.g. Marethari in act 2 gives the eluvian to Hawke instead of Merrill and that's just absolutely fucked i hate it so much. and to an extent i get it with Anders, because he has a whole spirit inside his head. Fenris has never been taught how to express his emotions in a healthy way, so he bottles them up and the bottles burst at inopportune moments.

but Isabela... she acts like a child a lot of the time. she doesn't take responsibility for her shit. and the game gives Hawke very few options. and i've played Isabela's act 3 quest and it honestly seems like she doesn't care that much about getting Castillon off her back.

idk. my friends reacted with horror when i told them i was considering doing this, and i'll definitely fight the Arishok with other Hawkes in the future, but this made sense to me.

[drjackandmissjo]

Roses are Red, Tattoos are Forever

Chapter 3 --- previous chapter

Feysand masterlist

The Sherlock Conundrum

Florist and tattoo artist Au, Modern Day

“Can you please stop with this madness? Hugh Laurie is clearly the best Sherlock ever!”

They were both sitting on the couch of his living room. Really close to each other. She had her left knee under her body and was fully facing him. He had been throwing glances at her way the whole time she’s been there, and now was admiring her everything as they bantered lovingly.

After a particularly rough client, that had taken her nearly seven hours to finish, she came into his shop claiming: “We’re both closing earlier, I need to rest and so do you.”

At his attempt to tell her off, cause “I don’t need to rest I am in pristine fit every second of every minute”, she simply replied with an elongated ‘Please’ and a pair of puppy dog eyes that would’ve put a Labrador to shame.

Useless to say, they ended up on his couch half an hour later, a marathon of the fourth season of House M.D. on the television and chips and popcorn all around.

Feyre is harder than she looks, tougher. She likes to drink whiskey and burning liquor and beer.

Rhys, on the other hand, is a refined rosé man. He drinks fruity drinks and cocktails and vodka. He tried the same stuff that she drinks, once, when they went out with the rest of the inner circle after Az had received a promotion. It didn’t end well.

Feyre and Cassian will forever tease him about it.

Since their taste in alcohol was on such a wide spectrum, they decided to settle for some sparkly Coca-Cola for that fine night.

About halfway through episode six, the debate had begun. The show was soon forgotten and left as a white noise machine that lulled them into their silliness.

“Feyre Darling. You are being delusional. Dr House’s got nothing on RDJ’s Sherlock. Just cause the character was inspired by Conan Doyle’s work it doesn’t mean it can be considered a Sherlock.”

She laughed. A delicious sound that was filling his days more and more each morning. “Do you know that Conan Doyle based Shelly on a doctor, right? Also, yeah Jude Law’s better than Wilson, that is true.”

“Can we just agree that Cumberbatch and Freeman are equally amazing.”

“Yeah, duh! But, controversial opinion: I don’t actually ship Jonhlock romantically.”

“More like platonic soul-mates? Makes complete sense. They are not interested in each other at all. You are right, Fey-ruh Acheron.”

‘HOW DARE SHE...’, he thought severely displeased.

“Oh please don’t be pissed at me. I like them together and everything, but in my mind, Sherlock is pretty much ace-aro. I mean, Cumberbatch was also Smaug. Which in the books is described as a dragon while the movies decided to portray him like a vixen...” He solemnly nodded.

That is, indeed, a severe problem in mainstream media.

“That is, indeed, a severe problem in today mainstream media. We live in a world where people don’t know the difference between one another! Daenerys Mother of Dragons? More like Dany The Soccer Mom of three cool lizards. That would be more appropriate!”

“Don’t talk to me about Dany, I’m still pissed about Jonerys. I mean, fan-service much? Okay, I can deal with that. But don’t freaking kill Viserion and try to make us all believe that HIS MOTHER WOULD FUCK HER NEPHEW THIRTY MINUTES LATER!”

She laughed again.

‘Gods above and below,’ he thought, ‘how much can a person love another?’

“Agree 100% on Viserion, though Jon after Ygrit should’ve just zipped up his pants and close business. You experience that kind of love once in your screentime. And when you do, Martin kills the counterpart off immediately after the big scene. You know that sadist is gonna kill you off, so just spare him the dirty deeds to write.”

“The dirty deeds are the reasons he is taking so much to finish that freaking book. Also, salty much?"

"You dare calling me salty? It’s been years and you still weep over Robb’s body.”

“Excuse you, it is a very fine body. Have you seen Richard Madden lately? With that kilt at Kit and Rose’s wedding? Fine AF.”

She was now scooting over, moving closer to his face to find a reaction.

“Fine, you’re right. But Darling, you know damn well I am attracted to that man, you can’t just casually throw his name around! That would be like me, saying that Misha has aged like a fine whisky.”

“And where would a lie hide in that sentence?”

“ANYWAY. We were talking of something terrifically important.”

He decided to add a Meaningful Pause to give himself some dramatic effect...

“How can you say you don’t ship Jonhlock romantically?”

‘Honesly I love that woman. She is my other half, I would die for her and with her. My life without her has no meaning.

But if her answer doesn’t please me then so help me God I will suffer through a meaningless life with the strength of my ships.’ His mind said.

“I told you before the 'The Hobbit/Game of Thrones' parenthesis. When I read the books I thought of Sherlock as a madman who cared about Watson profoundly, but mostly cares about himself and his work. Someone who doesn’t dwell into feelings, doesn’t really enjoy sexual times and, truly, a modern-day asexual and aromantic asshole with a kink for unofficial police work. Yes, He and Watson are amazing together, and especially with RDJ and Jude Law I saw the sexual tension, which then I also saw in the BBC’s version. But for me, since I read the books first, Jonhlock will always be the exact relationship shown by House and Wilson. Sorry to disappoint.”

She was so close to him, he could smell her shampoo and count the freckles across her nose. She was staring directly into his soul. Rhys was fully clothed in an old tee and some pants and yet he’d never felt more naked.

“You never disappoint me. As a matter of fact, you never cess to amaze me, Feyre Acheron. You are perfect and beautiful both on the inside as well as on the outside. Here I was, looking for a polite way to kick you out of my apartment after you say you don’t ship one of my OTPs and now, here still I am trying not to be drowned into you and trying not to get lost into your eyes and I love you so fucking much that it physically hurts.”

His inner monologue at the time? ‘Fuck. FUCK. What the fuck did I just say???’

She had managed to fry his whole brain with her smart reasoning and perfect voice and now he had ruined a perfect moment by saying cheesy stuff to a girl that didn’t particularly care for cheese.

That was the end of Rhysand Sphera as we all know and love him.

Cause of death: killed by Feyre Acheron as result of saying something completely idiotic.

Only...

“Do you really mean that?”

She sounded hopeful and scared at the same time. The horrors she had to face in the past came running back to her and were written all over her face. Rhys took her hands in his. They were both trembling.

His mouth had probably never been that dry and yet aching to speak at the same time. He could only nod and pray she reciprocated.

That was the moment of truth.

“Of course I mean it. All of it. Each unsaid sentence and each shared glances. Every time I bring you coffee or a send you a picture of a dog that walks into my shop with its owner even though I’m terrified of them. The dog, not the owner. Even though some owners of dogs are terrifying. I have been in love with you for so long, I forgot how it feels not loving you. I look back at those times when you were not in my life and even back then I knew I was missing something. And when he-who-must-not-be-named showed up and swept you off your feet away from me, I was broken beyond repair. But you came back and made me hope that maybe, maybe all my dreams could become true. But you were hurt and also broken, and you needed time to heal. You still do. I shouldn’t have said anything, but you’re just so fucking amazing that I struggle to not scream ‘I Love You’ every time you breathe. I am utterly in love with you and hopelessly devoted to you. I understand if you still need time to heal or would rather be with someone else. But I said it, and I do not intend on taking it back.”

She was kneeling on the couch, her hands still clutching his, tears streaming down her face.

“Don’t take it back.”

Rhys thought he had heard what he wanted, so he had to ask, “What?”, a dumbstruck disbelieving-his-luck expression plastered on his face.

“I said don’t take it back. I feel the same way. I am utterly in love with you and hopelessly devoted to you too. I thought you hated me after, well, Tamlin. It is pleasant knowing we reciprocate each other’s feelings.”

Feyre laughed again, breaking the spell between them. Only, now the deed was done. Neither of them could hold their emotions in any longer. Feyre leaned in and so did Rhys, and their lips met halfway in a once in a lifetime, epic romance, Full on Princess Bride type of kiss.

After they both ran out of breath, they simply remained connected in every way possible given their awkward position. Foreheads never leaving each other, hands clasped together, lips barely touching. That spell, though, didn’t last for long. Soon they yearned to touch each other’s skin and feel each other’s bodies.

They were never going to have enough of each other.

[kitkat2cats]

2017 – 2018

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  On 12 October 2017 Dear Elgar, I think you are too young to realise that humans are not as well adapted as we felines. They do not seem to have our ability to just let go and curl up and sleep. They mainly seem to sleep when it is dark. Poor things, I think it’s because their eyes are not as good as ours.You must be aware that if you want her to go on serving you let her have a good night’s sleep. I speak from experience. Purrs from Quintus.

13 Oct 2017 ​Dea-purr Quintus she says I is to say thank you for your email even though I felt you were tellings mes offs. Iz gets excited when zshe turns overs in bedz – I think she mights swant zto tickle my belly so I goes ands nuzzles her, somesztimes she pulls my next sto herz which makes me purrrrrrrrrrrrr lotz, butz Iz sdnont understands whys shes cross wiv me & like today at lightening ups inz the zskys wiv birdies teaszings mees she putz me out of her room nd shutsz door on me. I is cryings & puts my paws (thayz be bigg paws I haz *purrrrrrrrrr*) ins gapz under doors but she ignores me. I waz veryz sad nd I cryyd. I is confoozd I just brought her a prezant of birdzy nd she pickd meez up nd putz me outz de door! I  brought zit backs again but now shez stopped me comings in. Meow, 😦 I donts understands) Mew mew meow, moarghomew Elgar xx

On 13 October 2017 Dear Elgar, I was not trying to tell you off, more just trying to make you understand that humans are rather unlike us. I’m sorry yours was so misunderstanding of you. It is hard I know. For  some reason mine get narky when I get on the table. They don’t seem to realise it seems natural to me. They will spray me with water. Can’t understand why. Purrrrs and a nose rub, from Quintus.

25th Nov 2017 Dear Elgar, I hope your human is feeling a bit better. My human has thought of her lots, she has told me about her. I understand you are bigger than me. How is that for you are still not much more than a kitten?Though you do seem quite adventurous, and an expert at hunting. They do not always seem to appreciate this. They do seem to have some funny ideas, mine seem to get cross when I get on the table. It is such a good place to see will is going on, and I can even see out of the window if I face that way. She sometimes sprays me with water which I think is unnecessary, unkind. Funny things humans. Purrrrrrs to you and my aunty Muffin, and Arya, Quintus 

Dearapurrr Quintus I iz understanding yous – this one had a shock last nights (purr purr purr miaowwwwwwwwwww!! So funny) I had posted a toad through the slightly blocked cat flap (I has got Muffin to type – much faster & I am licking her ears) but my hooman didn’t know until she came to lock up last night. She was squealing (I don’t think it was with delight though 😦  ) as she had to pick it up & put it out of the flap – I was watching & it kepts leaping all over the place she got it onto the cat flap door but as she tried to put it out it jumped at her – she said some words I don’t hear very often – Muffs sez it’s shwairing – it took hooman over 5 mins to get toady out the hole! I waz giggling inside so much I fellz over n my legs were in the air!

Poor you being shqirted wiv water – not nice ats all! My hooman makes a noise like a snake which I knows is bad so I always try to gets as flats as possibles as snakes are naszty thhngs . sometimes I has to run away, but so far no sprayz wiz water. I got my hooman up today at 8am (so she sez) its waz urlier az dem birdiez wer teasing me so muches.

I is off to getz more birdz I thinks – I don’ts knows waz the problemz iz about it coming ins the house to be eats – after all my others foods are INDOORS – silly hooman! Purrs n no fleas (I don’t like havings that stuff on my neck but the bittings has stopped so I gez its a goods things reeelys) Speaks soon Elgar xx *purrrrrr*

On 27 Nov 2017

Miaowy greetings Uncle Quintus 

I is finally able to get my paws on hooman’s computery thing. Thank you for your writings. My hooman has been very poorly mother says & I am supposed to be keeping her warm, buts this is difficults at times as she moves me off, or says “Feet” – I knows I is meant to sits on her feet as they get cold (I never has cold feets have you?) but they are bony & she wriggles so I need to pounce, then she gets cross with me.

I sometimes worry about this thing of my hooman getting cross. Yesterday she smacked my nose! I was not happy at all with this, and the only reason was I was trying to clean out her breakfast bowl before she had finished – I don’t think I was unreasonable as she had taken HOURS to eat it…

Last night Aunty Muffin boxed my ears – I was just supporting her in keeping our hooman warm, I can’t help it if I am a bit bigger than Aunty Muffin – she needs to let ME have some room so I can be comfy shouldn’t she?

Hooman have me a deep groom this morning – she has taken her time over it! I like them every other day – but at least I has had one now. I stretched out for her, but something happened & I forgots – I puts my teeth & claws into my hooman. She put the furminator away & left the bedroom where we was. I got lonely & I still wanted my belly tickled! Such unreasonable behaviour from her at the moment.

She is also very smelly now, & has a REALLY noisy thing that she uses which makes her look like a dragon smoking (I has heard of these mystical creatures – I would like to grow up & be a dragon I think, does you know how I grows up to be a dragon?) she also coughs really loudly at times – so much so I have fallen off her legs – how is I supposed to do my “job” as foot warmer if she kicks me off?

I is in a mess here I thinks. nothing is going the way it should be. I is not worshipped – although my hooman does get me excellent food I suppose. So far she hasn’t sprayed me with the wet stuff deliberately – how bad is your hooman!?! That’s such an insult (unless you wanted some water – we does not have a table as far as I knows.

Right I has better sends this to yous before she comes back from the little room. Aunty Muffin is now sitting where I WANT TO SIT. It is just NOT FAIR! I is the biggest, bestest & only boy cat – surely they should treats me the bests? I is still only a baby in age.

I found a small squeaky thing outside – but it had a pointed nose – my hooman says its a shrew – & that it wouldn’t make good eatings – she knows about stuff like that so I left it on the mat in the kitchen for her. She didn’t say thank you. it’s all too confoosing for me.

Am I at the worst home ever?

sadly love Elgar xXx

28th Nove 2017 Purrrs Elgar, That was a good piece you sent. I will try to answer your questions First I don’t think your home is bad. There are many worse I understand, where you are not fed well and can be shut out when you want to go in. Humans are funny strange animals. They do odd things like getting wet all over in a thing called a bath, but seem to be almost afraid of rain. I don’t like rain much myself but it is natural.

My human tortured me the other day and said it was for my own good. First I was wound up in a towel, and held by the other human in my house, but I got free, cos I’m strong, but it was no use for the door and window was shut so they got me again. So undignified, I think I deserve more respect. Some fur was cut on my neck and some horrible stinging stuff put on. I got out as soon as the window was opened after I had given her a killing look, and almost decided not to go back but I got hungry.

I am training her, I just look at the food in my dish  but I will only eat it if she adds some of my treats, this way I get a few extra, which is good. She says I will get too fat and already looking fatter. It’s only my winter fur is thick, I don’t have to put on funny clothes and she puts on on lots if it is cold then SHE is fat. I guess your human is in a funny mood because she is not well. I would not leave until she is better, if she is still odd then you could visit me, I hope things improve soon. Purrrs , Quintus 

On 29 November 2017 Dear Elgar,Your message was very kind, but really my humans are not really that bad, and I am still training them. I have always plenty of dry food available, and water to drink, though I prefer the water that is outside. I too get treats every evening, and have trained her to give me extra sometimes.

I don’t usually sleep on my humans bed, but do sometimes. I prefer to be where I can roam as she keeps her door shut at night. At the moment my favourite place is a chair half way up the stairs. I can keep an eye on what is happening, though this cold weather makes me sleepy. Today I only went out for short times.

I have not heard about this dreadful monster but maybe I will stay in, especially she says it will be freezing tonight. Even with my thick fur I can not like that much cold. I am glad your human is a bit better.  I think you are all looking after her very nicely. Just remember not to wake her up.  Many purrrrrs to you, Quintus.

2nd December 2017 Dear Elgar, You send very good letters. Thanks. Presents are things that you give or receive. The food you sent me was a present, sometimes to make things complicated it is called a gift. Humans seem to like having different words for the same thing. Very odd. I still have a little of your special food for it is given to r almost like a great, though more than a great. It sounds fun that you search for yours. Mine are put in a special little dish. The special ones for cleaning my teeth are put there too, but at a different time. Yes, it is too cold.  I usually go out lots, but I suppose staying on my chair much of the time. I think I will go out and do, but come in again very soon. I am intrigued , what is a furminator? I think you must be cleaver to hold it. I have you are kind to warm your humans bed, but I guess it is a comfortable place for you too. My human has a cold but she thinks it is almost better, so maybe she will see you on Monday. Purrrr from Quintus, and to Aunty. Muffin and your mother too.

6th December 2017 Purrs Elgar, I am sorry your human is unhappy. I hope she is feeling better today. I nudged my human and she weighed me. She says I am 12lbs, but our scales are not as good as yours. We will try again. My last letter was a bit funny. Maybe the cold does not suit me! I know I have been indoors much more than usual. Fresh air is good for my thinking. (But not too cold).I hope Aunty Muffin is more happy . I s she sick too or just worried about your human. My human says yours has got pneumonia. Perhaps it’s called that because it makes them feel moany. Is yours moany or just sad? Please give Aunty Muffin a nose rub from me, and of course to you. Lots of purrs, Quintus

Oooh Elgar, what do you think of this white stuff they call snow? When I was a kitten I liked to play in it, but this morning I only stayed out briefly, It is still snowing and the trees look as if they are dressed in white, though I am going to curl up on my chair soon. A time called Christmas will be here soon I think. Maybe you will get a present then. I was given a funny mouse like thing but it was not alive, but it had a wonderful scent, which made me play with it as if it was alive. The humans have more things but I liked the paper and ribbon best, and there can be a useful box. They do odd things like put a tree inside and then hang things on it. I thought these were for playing with, but my human says NO! She  was very cross when I tried to claim the . (But that was when I was a kitten). I still play with the hanging things when there is no-one there, though usually they shut the door. I don’t think you should try to climb the indoor tree if you have one as I think you would be too heavy for it. I look forward to hearing your you. Purrrrrrs to Aunty Muffin and your mother, and a nose rub to you. Quintus.

10th December 2017 Dear Uncle Quintus Thank yous got your letter. It is very cold outside isn’t it? Mother, Aunty Muffin & I stayed with our hooman for a Very long time – she didn’t go to sleep very early – not su/purrre why, but she’s kept us all up until about birdie time – but I waz on her lap downstairs whilst she was awake so I go so many cuddles that I ignored the birds & we all slept in until this afternoon. Hooman is cross with herself for not sleeping at what she thinks are the right times to sleep – I don’t understand this as any time is a good time for 40winks! I has been better behaved & have been rewarded for it – so until it becomes boring I will carry on – last night I was chasing treats all around her bedroom! The girls were boring on the bed eating their pile so delicately! Pooh girls are silly! I think it is much more fun to chase my bits of treats – sometimes I miss a bit & find it later!

Hooman wants to know how much of my special food you have left? She said something about presents – which I am confused about a bit – but I think you will get some for your present. I tried to help her do some drawing yesterday – but it seems my paws are just a bit too wide to hold a pencil – I can hold the furminator and it remove some loose fur around my face – I is very clever to do this – neither of the girls can do it! I’m off upstairs to preheat the bed – hee hee what she doesn’t see she can’t worry about! miaory purrs  – Keep Warm Elgar XXX

Dear Elgar,

I think you are too young to realise that humans are not as well adapted as we felines. They do not seem to have our ability to just let go and curl up and sleep. They mainly seem to sleep when it is dark. Poor things, I think it’s because their eyes are not as good as ours.

You must be aware that if you want her to go on serving you let her have a good night’s sleep.

I speak from experience.

Purrs from Quintus

These are letters from Quintus son of Tinto, sister of Muffin. Q is the 5th kit in her litter. He chose to reply to a kitten called Elgar(son of Arya) who was very confused about Humans (hoomans). Their letters span several years 2017 - 2018 On 12 October 2017 Dear Elgar, I think you are too young to realise that humans are not as well adapted as we felines.

[alcalavicci]

(Disclaimer: if you wrote this and don’t want it up, send me an ask and I’ll take it down)

Arizona encounter:

Jill’s preface: No, not MY encounter (because there is none). Someone else's. I've been writing off-list to a woman who met Dean back in 1999.

She's a friend of a friend of a friend.....meaning I don't know her at all. But she seems intelligent, and straight up with me.

This lady met Dean briefly, at a restaurant, and after she figured I was A-OK, she agreed to write down all the details for me. Well, all the details she felt were fit for me to know. She knows I am sharing this with you. She also asked that I not divulge her name or email. She meets lots of celebrities, either through her work or lifestyle, I don't know. She made the mistake once before of writing about an encounter with a celebrity for that person's Yahoo Group, and was bombarded with emails afterwards. She does not want that experience again.

Now, here's some things I know: This lady is not a fan of Dean Stockwell's. That doesn't mean she dislikes him. It just means she doesn't think about him one way or the other. She considers him a 'middleweight' in the celebrity hierarchy (Dean's #2, so he tries harder? Lots of Laughs!).

Also, the year is 1999, and Dean definitely called the lady in the restaurant his 'wife.' Though there was no ring on his finger. The lady writing this story wasn't quite sure what was going on with Dean. I sent her photos of Joy to determine if that was the person in the restaurant. She said it very well could have been......except the lady she saw in person looked much older. But.....she also said this lady looked so pissed off, that the expression on her face could have aged her. Personally, I bet it was Joy - the lady described her as a brunette, about 5'5 or 5'6 - attractive, but not 'model-pretty.' Lots of food for thought there, huh? Does Dean play games with people, sometimes pretending he's married, but it's just such a bummer, man, and other times saying he's separated or divorced? Also, I don't think this lady who met Dean is aware that he really DID have a real estate license at one point, and that it's an easy story for him to list as his occupation. Also - who's the very ill friend? I immediately thought of Guy, who lived in Arizona.

And here's another bit of food for thought: If these two women had acted like fans of Dean........would he have sat with them for an hour, or would he have beat a hasty retreat to the door? Well, the day I see Dean sitting at a corner table in a restaurant is the day Hell freezes over. Okay, here's the post she sent me:

Lady’s encounter:

Hey, Jill!

I finally have a minute....

I met Dean in Scottsdale, AZ when I was helping a friend move. We were going to an outdoor cafe, and I saw him sitting at a table, reading "Red Dragon" of all things. The girl I was with had no idea who he was, but I asked her if we could sit at the table next to him. We brushed past to sit down (tight tables) and said a simple "Hi"...he looked annoyed.

He kept looking at us, but ignored us when we asked about his book. A little while later he got up and asked us if we would watch his book and sunglasses for a minute. (He didn't have to do that...nobody could have got to them to take them).

When he came back a few minutes later, he just sat with us out of the blue. He introduced himself by first name only and started talking like it was no big deal. He was very flirtatious, and went on and on about how much he loved the Southwest. He said he was in Real Estate, in New Mexico I think he said, and that he was in town to visit a very ill friend. I don't know why he lied about his profession...it wasn't necessary for him to even bring it up. His overall demeanor was a bit strange, but no he was not drunk.

We talked for about an hour...he said he was waiting for his wife, and kept looking at his watch and looking irritated. We never mentioned that we knew who he was...it was too much fun not to. But he was all Hollywood. Like one of those people who try so hard to be a "regular guy", but since he was raised in movies, he has no real idea how. I have worked with/met a few celebs in my time, and he was really as show-biz as it comes, but obviously doesn't want to be.

A weird side note...he mentioned that someone was molested by a guy in his neighborhood in California.... he had asked us if we had any trouble with men while we were in Scottsdale...part of his weird flirty thing...and was talking about how there are so many "sickos" out there these days. He looked upset talking about it, but he talked about it easily.

Very strange guy.

An austere but very attractive woman walked up to him, and he bid a very hasty but dramatic farewell before walking off with her. She was bitching at him about sitting with us....

So that's about it...in a nutshell

***

Another member: This was a very interesting story, not to be mean or anything- are you sure this wasn't a hoax?

Jill: No, I have no reason to believe this person I personally have been writing to, is lying to me. First of all, I got her email address from someone that I DO know and trust. My Internet friend told me that she had a friend who had met Dean Stockwell once. I asked her to tell me ALL the gory details. LOL! She said it would be easier just to go to the source itself, and gave me this person's email address. This person, whom I didn't know, was very nice, and we corresponded back and forth a little bit before she told me her account.

Jill: We also clarified a few things back and forth: for example, my sending her photos of Joy from the Internet, to see if it looked like the same person. And I thought it was very responsible of her to say 'It could be Joy, but I can't be sure.'

Jill: She also told me that at the time she met Dean Stockwell, she didn't personally know anybody who was a fan of his, or she would have paid more attention to details. In other words, it would be like me going to work, and saying 'I just met Dean Stockwell!'.....and, you know...…

Jill: I want everyone to realize, also, that to this woman, Dean was just an actor who used to co-star on an old TV show. It would be like me meeting Tom Bosley from Happy Days, or something. So, I'd be asking Mr. Bosley about the book he was reading.....he'd be annoyed. Then later, after returning from the restroom, he'd sit down with me and my friend, and start talking to us, telling us his name was Tom and that he sold Real Estate.....and yes, I'd be getting freaked out a little. And then Mr. Bosley's wife would come in, and obviously there's trouble......and after he left, I'd be thinking 'Weird. Very weird.’

Jill: Whereas, for us on this list, we would have a whole different feeling about seeing Dean casually in a restaurant somewhere.

Later on, in a different thread, Jill: Here's a great dichotomy for you guys: Why would a man who guards his personal life start telling two complete strangers intimate details of that life after meeting them for only about five minutes? I had to gloss over that Encounter a bit before I published it on this list.

[spiralwanderer]

✨Complete Updated Azuli StarDust Reference✨

For anyone who wants to see all her information (its v long be warned), it’ll be under the cut down below!

Character Chart

Character’s full name:  Azuli StarDust

Reason or meaning of name:  Lapis Lazuli; its her mother’s favorite gemstone; StarDust is a family name

Character’s nickname: Az, Z, Ziggy

Reason for nickname: shortened version of Azuli

Birth date: April 15th

Zodiac: Aries

School: Storm

Physical Appearance

Age: 18

Weight: 115 lbs

Height: 5’5

Eye color: green

Skin tone: Light tan

Distinguishing marks: Storm symbol on the back of her neck

Hair color: Black

Hairstyle: Short fluffy bob; when she’s older she has two long wavy strands of hair

Voice: British Accent, Calming and charismatic (Voice is similar to Alice Liddel from Alice Madness Returns)

Physical disabilities: Seizures/epilepsy, ADHD

Jewelry or accessories: Necklace with a rose quartz gemstone with a spiral pattern locket, given to her by her sister before she vanished.

Personality

Good personality traits: Outgoing/extroverted, bubbly, adventurous, dependable, observant, helpful, loyal, imaginative

Bad personality traits: obnoxious, impulsive, erratic, gets distracted easily, goes on outbursts, competitive, jealousy

Character’s greatest fear: Being hated by others; failing/disappointing; drowning/suffocating

Character’s soft spot: Cute things and being flattered

Greatest strength: Being the main attacker in the group, has the highest damage and critical

Greatest vulnerability or weakness: Being unprepared and not being very defensive, also very impulsive

Biggest regret: Not being able to spend more time with her sister

Character’s secret: That she comes from a very wealthy, Victorian household from Marleybone with an important name in the crystal mining industry.

Goals

Drives and motivations: Save the Spiral just as any other wizard with good morals. Also the need to be there for people when she knows how it feels when there’s no one there for you

Immediate goals: After fighting the Storm Titan, just rest easy.

Long term goals: Keep the Spiral safe.

Past

Hometown: Back and forth between Marleybone and Wysteria, mostly stayed home in the family’s Wysteria Villa.

Type of childhood: She grew up in the family’s Wysteria Villa and was raised to be the proper ideal child to make the family name look good. Things were tough between Azuli’s older sister Lillian and their parents. Lillian got into frequent arguments with them at a young age and at 14, went to Dragonspyre Academy instead of Pigswick academy like her mother wanted to. Azuli was 4 years old at the time, and when the Dragon Titan Army attacked, Lillian went missing at 16 years old. Azuli was 6. Because of how young Azuli was, she only has vague memories of her sister. At 11 years old Azuli was forced to attend Pigswick as per her mother's request after Lilian’s disappearance and she became a Tempest student. During her time at Pigswick, she felt really uncomfortable about how often people bragged about being rich and how magic really wasn't taught at Pigswick, it was all just really lenient work and sleeping. Azuli spent lots of time in the Pigswick library, trying to teach herself storm magic. She eventually became more advanced and others taunted her for being so ahead of everyone. Azuli did have a couple friends and she organized study groups for others who felt the same way she did about the way magic was taught at Pigswick. There were many snobbish students who tried to break down their group and one happened to get in a fight with Azuli and it was Bleys Flamerender who him and other students dumped all her schoolwork into the Fountain. After this fight both are sent to Headmistress Crisp where both their parents are called to. Azuli gets angry with her parents and says she's dropping out of Pigswick. Azuli is grounded at home for a good while and both parents try talking with her about why she shouldn't have done what she did and they get into a pretty big arguement. Azuli ends up running away and tries to go to her Aunt and Uncles place. She makes it there and her relatives look after her and speak to Ambrose about her getting into Ravenwood

First memory: Watching her mother singing at a sold out Marleybone pub

Education: From 11-13 years old she attended Pigswick and then transferred to Ravenwood and attended from 13-18 years old, and then the Arcanum at 18-20.

Family

Mother: Madge Stardust

Relationship with her: She used to love her mother and looked up to her as a child but began to hate her as she grew into her teenage years and hated how strict she was and how she always forced her to do and attend things she didn’t want to. Her mother was very abusive towards her after Lilian went missing.

Father: Abbott Stardust

Relationship with him: Kind and calm yet hardly present as he would always be away for work or shut in his office.

Siblings: An older sister (by about 10 years) name Lilian

Relationship with them: Azuli only had vague memories of Lilian and she was one of the only parent figures in her life and she protected Azuli or kept her calm as a kid whenever Lilian and her mother would argue.

Other important family members: Michael (Uncle) and Rose (Aunt) who live in Triton Avenue. When transferring to Ravenwood, they took her under their wing and looked after her. Michael is a myth wizard and Rose is a fire wizard. Rose is also Azuli’s mothers sister.

Present

Current location: Red Barn Farm(home)

Pets: Not exactly a pet but a storm grimoire, and a leviathan

Occupation: Protector of the Spiral, Spiral Geographer

Favorites

Color: Royal Purple

Music: Lo-Fi

Food: Sushi

Literature: Mystery

Form of entertainment: Exploring, watching PvP matches, hanging around the commons and listening to people

Mode of transportation: Her Astral Unicorn Mount

Most prized possession: Quartz necklace given to her by Lilian

Habits

Hobbies: Singing, playing piano, and experimenting or crafting

Usual body posture: Sits up straight always

Mannerisms: Posh but tends to fade away after a while. Comes up when she’s trying to prove something to somebody

Traits

Optimist or pessimist? Is an optimist 99% of the time

Introvert or extrovert? Extrovert; she gets her energy from being around people

Daredevil or cautious? Little bit of both

Logical or emotional? Thinks logically but acts more emotional.

Disorderly and messy or methodical and neat? Because of her childhood, she can’t help but keep everything as orderly as possible

Prefers working or relaxing? Depends on the day but prefers working to keep herself busy

Relationships With Others

Opinion of other people in general: She hates annoying people but loves listening in on drama

Does the character hide his/her true opinions and emotions from others? Most of the time but she'll tease or play off how she actually feels as sarcasm

Best friend(s): Roxanne SunShard

[eledritch]

Hi hi! Ok here is the question I was kinda shy to ask before: as someone who’s tried to write smut but gets really embarrassed, how did you initially gather the confidence to start posting it? I know it shouldn’t really be embarrassing and I should own it but yeah :s

Ahahaha oh my gosh....this is actually quite a funny story. 

I fell headfirst into the world of, uh, explicit fiction QUITE early. I’ve been reading smut since I was 11, and writing it since I was 12. This might seem...weird to some people, but I think some backstory is necessary:

I grew up in Arizona, a generally red and conservative state with a piss poor education system and an even worse sexual education program. Never got the Talk, either.

I was the first of my friends to hit puberty, and to put it lightly, AZ’s sex ed did NOT prepare me for any of it. Our sex-ed programs in elementary school consisted of cheerful, meaningless animations; middle school was even worse, they just showed us graphic photos of advanced stages of STDs and basically gave us the “don’t have sex or you will get pregnant and you will die” talk. 

I wasn’t unique, either. We were all unprepared, confused, and frankly when it came down to it, terrified, children with changing bodies that we didn’t understand. For me, some of the worst changes were not so much physical as they were mental and emotional. Puberty hit me HARD, and sent me into a truly impressive depressive spiral. So I was 11 years old, starting middle school, and frequently thought about ending it all, or hurting myself, or both, because I just felt so worthless and frustrated and sad. It was a bad time!

Cue me accidentally finding my first fandom, the infamous early-mid 2000s Bandom. The platform I started out on was deviantART, which is....a weird place for writers, because the artists:writers ratio is skewed in a way that it isn’t on other fanfiction platforms. There were way more artists. I saw some things. So many things lmao (because of course I lied about my age). And at first, yeah, I was kind of scarred. But after I got over the shock, I got curious. And when you’re depressed bordering on suicidal, curiosity is a rare feeling. When you find it, you follow it. So I kept looking.

I can pinpoint the exact moment I “found” my sexuality. I was 12 and stumbled upon an MCR fic that wasn’t even about the ship I was into at the time, but like...I dunno, just the way it was written was by far the most sensual and visceral thing I had ever read, and on some weird level I connected to it. It was about nightswimming hahah but I found it....weirdly beautiful? I’ve always loved writing and something struck me about this expression of sexuality and love and sex. I really, really liked it, and I’d never seen anything like it before. I didn’t even know smut writing was an option. But I also didn’t think I could ever write something like that, because yes, shame is a prevalent human emotion when it comes to smut writing. 

Fast-forward. Before I finally got on the pill, my periods were comparable to Satan hollowing out my insides with a red-hot fire poker. THEY WERE BAD. On one of these particular days, during which I found myself wanting to throttle God or whoever had cursed me with this torture, and also found myself DEEPLY FRUSTRATED in ways I didn’t at the time know how to describe (read: horny. i was horny.), I opened a Word Doc and started typing furiously. So...my first smut fic was not born out of shame and indecision. It was born out of the righteous rage of the worst day of my period and the bottled-up frustration of being in an environment that refused to explain my own body to me. 

And guess what? When I was done with it, I felt better. It was cathartic as hell. So I kept writing them. And people liked them, and read them, but here, I think, is the key when you find yourself embarrassed to write & post smut: don’t think about the other people who are reading it. Because you’re not writing it for them. You’re writing it for you. 

Once you get more confident in your smut writing, sure, you can write it with others in mind, but at its core, it has always been a catharsis and a coping mechanism for me personally. I was in an environment that was already filled with shame; it was freeing to write shamelessly. 

It was an act of rebellion, I suppose, but one that felt unexpectedly healthy and had the side effect of making me by far the most knowledgeable of my middle school friends about sex and sexuality. I had to explain to my 3 best friends what an orgasm was when we were 13. They had no idea (even after 2 years of middle school sex ed), and I guarantee you the explanation I gave them was better than what they would have found if they had braved the dark pit that is Urban Dictionary.

In addition, I feel that writing smut during some of the most formative years of my life really gave me a sense of agency. It gave me confidence in my sexuality and expression of that sexuality that I wouldn’t have had otherwise. It taught me to say no. Writing explicit works gave me an environment that was not only a safe space in which to learn about sexuality, it gave me an environment where ultimately I was in control of that learning and exploration, and had readers supporting me along the way. And I am very grateful for that. 

That’s not to say that I still don’t get embarrassed sometimes. You should always have a LITTLE shame, lol. It’s been 7 years and counting, and I still absolutely can’t handle people reading my nsfw stuff IRL, I will put my hands over my ears and hide my face in my shirt and turn bright red! I prefer to let my fics exist in the ether realm of the Internet and my brain :’D 

But at the same time, over the years I’ve written so much smut that I’ve reached a point where I find myself being bolder and discovering things about myself I didn’t know (i.e. dragon shiro, ‘nuff said), just because, well, I wanted to. Self-exploration through writing (smut or otherwise) is fun, and it’s even more fun when you have some readers to come along with you on the wild ride. 

[terrific-togekiss]

Pokémon Champions and overall Journey Themes

Pokémon. A franchise met with much praise and adoration for many years.

Catching your favorite pocket monsters, while capturing the hearts of many.

Today we're going to look and analyze at an aspect of the main games that many is familiar with: Champions.

The last victory before the main journey is over. A culmination of everything the player has been through over the entire main game. And here we're talking about what the Pokémon Champions really symbolize in the games and how they hold up the overall themes of the game.

Pokémon Red, Blue and Yellow

Starting with Blue in Pokémon Red, Blue and Yellow.

As the first games of the franchise, it's only natural that the champion is someone the player knows.

With Blue, Gen 1 is the first Pokémon games. So, of course since Pokémon is a personal journey it ends with you the player facing someone of a personal relationship.

You went on this journey. You saved Kanto from Team Rocket. You caught many Pokémon of various shapes, sizes, colors and personalities. You filled up the Pokédex. You traveled across the lands.

Now it's time for one final challenge before your journey is over.

And there's the man who reminds of where you began. Your own best friend as the champion. If both journeys are coming to end, so is this friendly rivalry the two of you have had since the start.

The main theme of Gen 1 is to remind fans how Pokémon is ultimately a journey you set off on yourself.

Pokémon Gold, Silver and Crystal

Now let's move on to the Johto region in Gen 2. Pokémon Gold, Silver and Crystal share close connections to the Gen 1 games, being seen as a bit of an add on.

Lance is a Dragon master, Gen 2 was about respecting old legends and learning from those before you, so of course the champion has a team of dragons and ancient Pokémon.

Team Rocket returns and does not respect any of the old legends, as seen with messing with the natural habitat, angering a shiny Gyrados and caring more about themselves.

Silver, the son of Giovanni is also reflective of this as he tries to take on his dad's old crime group before forging his own path.

Lance embodies none of these characteristics and teaches the player to respect all before you, but never lose sight of what awaits you.

We ultimately forge our own paths.

Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire and Emerald

In the Gen 3 games Pokémon Ruby, Sapphire and Emerald, Team Magma and Team Aqua both have plans for changing the overall environment of the entire Hoenn region.

Both Steven Stone and Wallace have Pokémon closer to the the natural world, showing the player to never forget Pokémon origins, and not grow obsessed with how phenomenal the world as a whole is.

Pokémon Diamond, Pearl and Platinum

With Cynthia in the Gen 4 games of Diamond, Pearl and Platinum, she's the first champion to have a team not regulated by one type. You, the player, are a literal small town Pokémon trainer that goes on to do great things in contrast yet likeness.

Cynthia is humble in who she is and was most likely in the same position as the Player. Showing how anyone can do great things and go on to do great things. No matter where they came from.

Pokémon Black and White

With the Gen 5 game Pokémon Black and White: Alder is very old and N, someone much younger, beating him is meant to reflect Team Plasma's goals and ushering in a new age. Alder being beat is meant to show the old ways are done. N winning is the Truth, his future of no more Pokémon battling is what he deems ideal. As the overall theme of Black and White is Truth and Ideals.

The player beating him and Team Plasma, is meant to show how hollow Truth and Ideals are, when on a journey of power than self discovery.

Pokémon Black 2 and White 2

This carries over to Pokémon Black 2 and White 2: Team Plasma has split into two groups. One believes in the old goal of people and Pokémon coexisting peacefully, while the other wants to take over Unova. The latter, Neo Team Plasma is trying to hold onto N's ideals, while the former is the truth behind what Team Plasma always planned on.

Iris going from a Gym Leader in one version of the previous games to champion holds onto this theme, while rejecting it; this is the last 2D Pokémon game, so what is being carried over?

Fun. No matter what paths we take, what roads we travel, what struggles we face, Pokémon is all about having fun.

N lost sight of why Pokémon would want to stay with their masters, but realized in the end, through the protagonist that maybe humans and Pokémon may live in harmony one day.

Fun adds meaning to life and helps take our minds off of what we face in our day to day lives. It's the Truth of why so many love Pokémon, creating an ideal world building enrichment in our lives.

Pokémon X and Y

Moving on, in the Gen 6 games X and Y, Diantha is a fashion model and embodies beauty in yourself and finding it in others. Team Flare wants beauty to be immortalized. Diantha disagrees with Lysandre and rejects his offer early in the game, understanding nothing lasts forever and beauty becomes hollow if it does.

The player beating her and than beating AZ is meant to show how something is beautiful not because it lasts: how we feel towards it does. As seen with with AZ and Floette. Even decades later, they still hold the same love they hold for each other.

Team Flare is shown throughout the game to be a group of flamboyant criminals, that while emphasizing immortal beauty: all look the same.

As everything must fade away at some point and nothing truly lasts forever. But that's not exactly bad thing. It's a reminder of appreciating things in the here and now.

Pokémon (Ultra) Sun and (Ultra) Moon

With Gen 7, since something is done differently here, but the player still beats the Elite Four and shows how anyone can stand tall, but true knowledge never ends. As seen with being able to defend your position as champion.

When one reaches the top, what's left when you've learned all there is to learn and being number one?

Start all over again. The other side of the mountain is the beginning and every journey starts all over again.

This idea is also instilled in the challengers, as for the first time the player can defend their title as champion and teach the same lesson to them.

Pokémon Sword and Shield

In the Gen 8 games, Leon basically embodies the pressure society puts on you when you become famous and needing to live up the expectations of your family (or otherwise supporting them). He's one of the first who makes an explicit effort to keep "you kids" out of danger until it becomes impossible. He even takes an entire HIT for the player during the Eternatus incident. He breaks the trope of ten year olds being expected to handle everything, while adults help in smaller ways.

And why does he care so much? Pressure.

How fitting and ironic since this is the first console Pokémon games, with Gen 7 being the last handheld ones.

Moving on, Leon understands the pressures of the player going on a journey, as he was in the very same position himself.

Societal pressures are ultimately pointless: you decide what defines greatness and how others can follow your example. As seen with Leon looking out for the player. Not to be blinded by the light, but to follow it.

Thanks for reading everyone! I look forward to what Gen 9 may do this.