#but I'm really glad to get this one finished

[illusioncanthurtme--art]

HERE IT IS ALL FINISHED!!! AHHHH!!!!!

THE FAMBILY...💖

I've been planning this illustration for over a month now - in April, I had the patreon folks vote on a theme for a big gravity falls print, and camping was the winner. Even just planning the general composition took a while, figuring out where I wanted all the characters to be. Once I shored up a good thumbnail, I made it tighter twice before putting it on paper, and working in pencil. The pencil drawing part took me four sit down sessions of drawing, and then coloring the scan took another couple of days. I worked SO DANG HARD to finish this monster before mc3, and by some miracle, I did.

Overall, I'm really happy with how this illustration turned out! I feel like it does a good job of expressing my love for the show. I'm really glad people were enthusiastic about it at the convention - I had a lot stop and look at it with these really awestruck, sad wet goo goo eyes expressions LOL! They did this: 🥺 with an actual human face dskjhlsdfkjh!!

Here's a link to my bigcartel store, where you can get one! Also, info to keep in mind: members of my $5 patreon tier get 15% discount on their orders when they use a special code.

Also, side note: thank you to my expert names and wordplay consultant for giving me the name "nitelite moth." YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE :)

Under the cut: Uncolored pencil version, and sketches.

[mistressofthemanor]

masterofthemanor

The fact that he was not only able to devise a decent narrative on the spot, but also delivered his idea in a compelling way managed to astonish him and fill him with contentment. In the past, it was nothing out of the ordinary as he'd practied those same skills day to day, mostly at the ministry and frequently before and during their secret missions when he served the Dark Lord. Critical thinking was required in both of those roles he'd taken up on himself as it was usually him suggesting an approach, a strategy which they'd carried out, so it really shouldn't have come as a surprise to him that despite not having been forced to come up with a plan within seconds - without giving himself long hours to consider and second guess his every decision - he was still able to pull it off; and do it with ease. It was evident on her face as well that she'd been impressed with him, proud of him even, although he felt that could've easily been a stretch, his own desires seeping in and clouding his judgement as he regarded her, drinking in her graceful movements as she sat back with ease - clearly, she was as relieved to actually have a logical plan they could stick to as he had been. "So?" He inquired with a knowing smile, unable to help himself, although, he hadn't addressed her to have her hurry up and to emphasise that, he'd went back to his breakfast, sliced off a bite and lifted it to his mouth, chewing carefully while he waited for her answer. His brows lifted up expectantly as he looked up at her and he gave her a warm smile, flattered by her compliment and enthralled by the smirk that spread along her lips. As much as he tried not to look overly joyous or smug for that matter, he'd lost it when she'd pointed out that the plan was very much like him as he let out a warm chuckle and shook his head. "I'm glad it earnt your approval" He gave her an appreciative glance as he started to slice another bite, however, he was soon captivated by her mesmerising gaze that, combined with her musing about those two weeks, made his breath catch in his throat and his movements to still. "Do you think we could get away with two weeks? Surely, Celeste would notice our absence" He surmised, not meaning to burst her bubble, still, he wanted to remain reasonable with their plans. Giving her some time to think it through, he'd finished the remainder of his second pancake, then took a sip of his tea as she'd moved on to a lighter topic and asked him for a specific detail of another part of their plan. He grinned against the rim of the cup at the formal way she'd addressed him. It's been so long since he'd heard her utter his name in that flirtatious manner. "Hm... Where have you been lately?" He asked instead of giving the cliché answer of 'anywhere you'd like to' or coming up with a suggestion right away, wanting to figure out whether she had a specific country or place she would have liked to visit.

She set the teacup down slowly, precisely, and folded her hands over the linen napkin in her lap, taking a moment to let the question settle in the air like perfume. “Where have I been lately?” she repeated, as though tasting the words on her tongue. “Hm. Figuratively, I suppose I’ve been in survival. Literally…” she trailed off, her gaze drifting toward the far window, where the morning light broke in quiet strips across the tiled floor, “mostly Paris, in truth. I spent a handful of months in the Marais. Rented a narrow little flat with drafty windows and the creakiest floors you could possibly imagine. It was nothing grand. Quite the opposite, in fact.” She looked back at him then, something wistful but fond behind her composed smile. “And yet, it was peaceful. Anonymous. I could walk down Rue de Turenne at dawn and no one turned to look. No whispers. No name. Just... a woman buying apricots and coffee.” Her fingers played absently with the edge of her napkin. “But that’s not where I want to go.” She leaned forward, her tone lightening with subtle playfulness, though her eyes held something deeper.

“I was thinking… Hungary. Do you remember that estate outside of Pécs? The one built into the hills, with the mineral springs tucked behind the vineyards?” Her voice softened with the memory. “We stayed there for three days. You booked the entire property without telling me. I thought we were just stopping to rest before moving onto our final destination. But instead, you saw how exhausted I had been even when I told you I was fine. You brought me pastries in bed and told me that for once, politics could wait. And we just like that, extended our vacation." Suddenly a memory occurred to her and she let out a chuckle after she popped another strawberry into her mouth, "You spent the entire afternoon fussing over which herbs to steep in my tea, swearing you’d mastered healing brews after one weekend with Severus to help me regain my energy. I was certain you were going to poison me.” Her voice softened further, “There was no one there but us that weekend. And I don’t know if I’ve ever heard the world be that quiet again.” She paused, watching him with something gentle in her expression. "I think that's the kind of silence I'd like again...with you. Somewhere free from secrets." She watched him then, as if waiting to see whether the man who’d once charmed her in the smoke and polish of ballrooms could still meet her there—just the two of them, stripped of their legacy, their name, and everything they'd been expected to carry. “It’s not grand. Not polished. But I think we could disappear there for a little while. The world will keep turning without us, Lucius. And Celeste—she’ll wait. We’ll return to her not just armed with truth, but with something she can see. A bond she can’t ignore.” Then, more softly, “Let’s go where there are no expectations to rise to…just each other.”

Bones of Contention

[caitmayart]

Bulk Ask Responses!

Heya! I've been getting a bunch of asks re: Cloudward, Ho! and I figured I could answer them all in one place ♥

Starting off strong @wogglywiggler ;D Van is amazing and I can't wait for yall to see Siobhan's incredible performance as her - she's got LAYERS, folks!!

You're welcome, Anon. Live thirsty my child ♥

SOMETIMES IT'S NOT INTENTIONAL BUT ALSO I'm a raging pansexual and I find everyone attractive so I do my best to translate that to my drawings. I'm so glad I am apparently the queen of dnd thirst characters tho ;D

Hi @eembezzle!! GOSH that's so cool, I never really think of my art as like... super recognizable but I'm glad yall knew it was me! ♥

The second part of your ask is very similar to this one from @whookami :

and this one from @graciousred :

So I'll answer them all together!

The process is different for the PCs vs NPCs, but all in all I work through coordinators and art directors. I rarely get the chance to 1 on 1 with talent. We work with a wonderful app called Airtable, which makes everything nice and organized and easy to deal with when you're drawing a bajillion characters. PCs I get mood boards and written descriptions, and we go through several rounds of ideation before landing on finals. They take the longest by far!

NPC-wise, I'm given a write up of the character and the timestamp for when they're introduced in the season. If they have a battle mini, I get reference pics of that, too. Yep, minis are made WAY before character art! I listen/watch the "stringouts" aka uncut/unedited footage of the sessions to get the vibe of the character, as well as any secret things that are important later i.e. someone in disguise, like The Skulker vs Johnny Manhattan in NSBU, or if there's some kind of historical importance to a character/secret hidden on their person that is important to visualize. These get done in batches :)

I wouldn't be able to get this done without the awesome dropout team - especially Eve, Skye Loremaster, and Alison ♥

As for Projection Illustrations - that's done before filming! We work closely with the battlemap team (love you Rick, Alison, and KC) and the projection engineers (GOATS Derek and Ruby) to make the beautiful sets the players and viewers get to enjoy. We actually work on the sets DURING film schedule - and CH has a LOT of art yall will get to see. There were times we finished the art the day before the episode was filmed!! But, the art has to be done before the cameras roll, as they're projected live behind the actors.

Hi @seasonofhotness! Thank you so much - I have my con schedule on my website (caitmayart.com) and I try to keep it as updated as I can. I'm currently waiting to hear back from NYCC, but I did apply! Cross your fingers for me ♥

Oh goodness @lady-writes that was totally unintentional, but I SEE IT NOW WHOOOOPS

I just wanted to make Daisuke look like the suave bastard he is, and Zac embodies him so well it must have leaked into my drawing haha!

Thank you all SO MUCH for the love - I can't wait to sail CLOUDWARD, HO with you all!!

[rekino2114]

May I make a request? How about Makima with a Male Reader where they we’re finishing up a mission together, and just as their about to leave together Y/n suddenly just sweeps her off her feet and carries her bridal style to their vehicle. And next time, just to play with her boyfriend/husband, (you can decide weather they are married at this point or not) just as he’s about to sweep her off her feet again, she decides to turn his tables on him and easily carries him bridal style to their escort with her devil strength!

You and makima carrying each other bridal style

Pairing:makima x male reader

You sighed and wiped the dust off of your suit adjusting your tie in the meanwhile

"Is your suit dirty?"

You looked towards makima and saw she was doing the same

"A little bit, it's mostly blood though"

"Oh I'm sorry for that darling, I'll clean it once we get home"

"Oh don't worry about it, I'll just use one of the spare ones"

"It's alright, mine is dirty too so I have to do laundry anyway"

"Fine, tell me if you need help. Are we all done here?"

You saw makima looking around and sniff the air around her

"I can't smell any other devils around so I think so"

"Really? Just one? Usually we pair up when there are giant hordes attacking cities"

"Well that one was really strong though"

"Yeah I guess, well I'm not complaining, it's more time I get to spend with you"

"My thoughts exactly"

"Well, let's go back to headquarters"

"I was thinking of going back home actually"

"Hm? But don't we have to file the reports for the missions?"

"I'll just ask someone else, you don't think I'm letting you work more after you've fought so hard right? you must be so tired, the only things waiting for you after this mission are dinner, a movie and a whole lot of cuddles"

"Hehe, all this special privilege is making me feel bad for the others"

"Well, you are one of the strongest devil hunters I have, I need to reward my best workers well, you know?"

"You're acting like you're not the reason why I'm that strong"

"Then consider it a privilege of being the man i love, one of the many you get"

You sighed but smiled back at her. You couldn't say getting spoiled by makima wasn't something you were always looking forward to even with how often it happened

"Alright, let's go back. I know arguing with you is useless anyway"

She smiled back and kissed your cheek before holding your hand and starting to walk with you

"Good boy, start choosing which movie you want to see in the meantime if you want"

After walking for a few minutes hand in hand with makima you saw her car in the distance, then you looked back at makima and got an idea

"Hey makima can I ask you something?"

"Of course, what is it darl-"

Before she could finish her sentence you literally sweeped her off her feet and started carrying her bridal style while smiling. She blinked a few times before she started giggling herself

"Oh my, this sure is unexpected"

"You were fighting hard too, I just want to be sure your legs aren't sore"

"Oh don't worry I can walk perfectly fine"

"Yeah I know but you spoil and pamper me so much, I just thought this was the least I could do"

"Alright then, if that makes you happy, plus I can't say this isn't nice and comfortable"

"I'm glad you're comfy, we'll be in the car in no time with me carrying you"

You continued carrying makima until you reached your car. At that point you let her down and she kissed you

"Thanks for the ride darling"

"Don't mention it, I loved it too"

[Timeskip brought to you by chibi y/n sleeping on chibi makima's lap]

A few days later makima "coincidentally" happened to have to accompany you to another mission. You were a bit confused by that as this was the second mission basically in a row you two were going to spend together but you weren't complaining as it was more time you got to be with your love

"OK so we're done, you really went all out there, I'm surprised, the devil wasn't even that strong"

"I just wanted to go back home quickly"

"So I assume there's gonna be no paperwork for today either"

"Nope"

"Alright, I can't say I don't enjoy more free time with you"

Just like the other day, you and makima started making your way to the car with your hands intertwined. When you got closer to it, you smirked and got the same idea you had before, so you started moving your hands towards makima's back and legs only to be caught off guard and getting swept off your feet ending up getting carried bridal style by her

"..................."

You blushed a bit but looked up at makima who was smirking at you

"Is something wrong darling?"

".......sometimes I forget how strong you are"

"Come on y/n, I think a bit of revenge is fair on my part, besides to be honest, I much prefer being the one doing the carrying"

".........and I can't deny I also really like being the one who gets carried"

"See? So it's win-win for both of us"

"....yeah, you're right, but don't think you're getting away with this that easily, I'll get you when you least expect it"

"The same goes for me, the bet is on"

You giggled a bit and smiled at each other as makima continued carrying you to your car

[blackwall-my-tiny-husband]

Thursday Bangers 5/15

Thank you @woundedsoul12 and @notyourmamasdeerbat for tagging me! As always I love these prompt games so much!!

Rules: Free from a blurb or drawing based on the weekly lyrics prompt. It doesn't have to include the prompt just whatever you're inspired to write, write it! Then tag some friends so they can play as well. It doesn't have to be finished on Thursday just post it whenever you can (you have a whole week between Thursdays)

This week's prompt is :: Mercy by Shawn Mendes - I'm prepared to sacrifice my life // I would gladly do it twice

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

When Nels finally found Davrin it was late. He was sitting up on the, very unstable, wooden walkway above his room. The stairs were still partially out of commission, several boards missing and Rook herself had to jump a few times to get up there.

She handed him a tall bottle, it was some good expensive booze. She wasn’t sure what exactly it was but it would do the job. He barely looked up, taking a swig of the bottle and then with a face he did finally glance her way.

“Where did you get this?” She smirked, she thought maybe something nicer than warden swill would get him talking.

“I asked Spite to swipe some of Lucanis’ good stuff.” She informed him, sitting down next to him. He passed her the bottle and she took a sip but handed it back. She’d brought it for him, not herself. He snorted at that but didn’t say anything, just took another swallow.

She hung her arms over the half broken railings she supposed once passed for a safety measure. Weisshaupt had been days ago, the other wardens were all settling in at Lavendale and Nels felt the hollow ache of their fortress, their home, gone. Davrin’s ache she knew went deeper than that.

She still remembered down in the library, blight heavy and growing, crawling everywhere. The smell of burning- burning blight, burning paper, burning flesh- thick in the air when Davrin said he was going to be the one to end the archdemon. She remembered the drop in her stomach and rashly she had said she could do it, he wasn’t the only warden in the room. She remembered clearly the snap of Lucanis’ head after hearing the answer to why only Wardens could kill archdemons.

They’d die. It was just a fact. Wardens were meant for death one way or the other. She remembered, and hated, the relief that had washed over her when Davrin shot her down, that she had to rally the team. That it was his job to take the killing blow.

She still felt sick at how glad she’d been in that moment that it would be him, not her. She was just as much a warden, she should have been just as prepared to die as the griffin keeper.

But then, Lucanis had looked horrified. It had only been briefly before covering and continuing but…. Was that what the reality of it should be?

That they should be horrified that they were so prepared to die? Should they be upset that it was so ingrained into them, that they just readily threw themselves onto the pike like that?

The team had seemed to think so. She’d heard Emmrich say that he was glad that Davrin was alive. It shamed her that she had felt angry for him, that he didn’t get to die and live on in history as a hero.

But even with the anger there for him she had also been glad in, again, a shameful way, that he hadn’t died. That she didn’t have to give Assan a hug goodbye for him.

“In death, sacrifice.” She muttered and Davrin looked to her, handing her the bottle. She swirled it around for a moment, both sitting in silence.

“Are you still upset about it?” She finally asked after drinking and passing it back. She watched him, eyes taking in the exhaustion etched on his face. She wasn’t sure if she wanted the comfort of a warden’s answer that yes he was or if she wanted him to give a Davrin answer even if it would feel like ripping a piece away from both of them.

He drank again,

“No. Not really.” He paused and she held her breath. “Someone will need to help raise and train all the griffins and I have some first hand experience.” Rook realized she had been staring at her hands, clasped too tightly but at his words she released them. If Davrin was beginning to believe they could have lives after this mission, as wardens, then maybe it was true. It wasn’t something she’d ever thought about before.

Why would she? She was a warden, it was just warden missions, saving people, hunting things, until either something too strong got her or the calling drug her under. But with the Veilguard, with these people she was thinking of as family and friends, she had begun wondering. About a life, a real life after all this. It might still be a half life with the threat of the calling but maybe not just killing until killed.

“But would you do it again?” She asked as he took another long draw from the bottle. She had a feeling she knew the answer for this one. It would be the answer she’d give too if pressed.

“Would you?” He turned to stare at her, like he knew the answer. But really he was right, they both knew.

“Of course I would. I would give my life as many times as the world needed me to.” She felt the burn of his gaze and she couldn’t look at him when she said it. The relief she’d felt in the lower levels of Weisshaupt had been a wash of fear and regret over her but there was something deeper, something colder in her veins that told her she would. She would always be ready to die for others, so they wouldn’t have to, so other people, better people- or at least non blighted people, not like her- could be kept safe. She was already a ticking time bomb, the calling only a matter of time after all.

She didn’t ask him in return, they both knew the answer but she hoped maybe, just maybe, they could both stop trying to fall on their sword. They’d always be willing but maybe they could try to look beyond that as well. They could have this life, this family these friends they were making here at the lighthouse and maybe they’d be able to keep them. Maybe they could look to the future and not dream of deaths ahead but of the life ahead too.

Davrin handed her the bottle and she drank and handed it back, but maybe that was too much to ask of either of them right now. For now, they’d drink and sit and she could be content with that.

───── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ─────

This was going to be my warmup for davrin week but Nels really took over for this one and it became more about grey wardens in general. They’re both being self sacrificing idiots together for this and I love them even if they both need a hug

Gently tagging (no pressure at all) : @chaosherald @davrinsleftpectoral @hedwigoprah @seaglassmelody @thedissonantverses

[karikitdemonrp]

Kari watched the half demon as he spoke, giggling a bit when he ruffled her hair. Her smile widened at the information. "Kay." She chirped softly then turned to walk away only to pause. "Oh, and, um..." She muttered, turning to look over her shoulder. "I'm cuddling with you whether you like it or not! C-cuz that's been helping me sleep." She said with a huff before dashing off to tell Kagome the information.

Once back inside the child went to the room the group would be sleeping in and saw Kagome had finished setting up the sleeping mats and Shippo was back from causing mischief. "Inuyasha says he's not gonna be climbing anymore trees so he should be back soon." Kari smiled and Kagome looked up from brushing Shippo's hair.

"That's good to know. It's getting kinda late so I was hoping he'd call it a night soon." The teenager smiled and began to pull Shippo's hair up. "All done Shippo. I'm surprised you had so much soot in your hair."

"Those bullies threw a burning incense at me, thinking I was some kind of ghost or whatever. I'm just glad those idiots didn't cause a fire or whatever."

Kari tilted her head, thinking for a moment while slowly putting the pieces together. She didn't say anything but gave the fox a small grin, kind of understanding that he did something. The child went over to sit on a mat and wait.

"So," Kagome started while Shippo went off to get comfortable. "Did Inuyasha like the drawing?"

"Yeh," Kari gave a wide smile. "He did. He said he liked it." The child held a wide, genuine smile. Kagome gave Kari a gentle pat on her head with a soft chuckle.

"That's good. You gonna sleep with him tonight?"

"What kinda question is that, Kagome?" Kari asked. "He's been helping me sleep really well. I don't get nightmares so no duh I'm gonna try and sleep next to him." She replied, acting as if it were a no brainer. Kagome rolled her eyes and let it be. Kari sighed softly and moved to wait for the half demon, feeling uneasy until he returned. It was weird, she hadn't felt so safe around someone for a while. But at least she was sleeping well now.

The young priestess gave a small grin, moving to get comfortable. "You gonna stay up and wait for him?" Kagome asked and Kari replied with a simple nod. "Well, try not to stay up too long. He'll come back in his own time. He always does." Kagome yawned and went to curl up on one of the sleeping mats. Kari gave a sigh then went to her bag and took out her plush rabbit, Tsuki, to hold while she waited for the half demon to return. She watched the door, eyes slowly growing tired but she still forced herself to stay awake until Inuyasha came back. Her mind now buzzing with thoughts in the silence.

"Why am I starting to sleep so well when I'm near Inuyasha? Why is it so easy for me to be relaxed with him? ... Is it cuz he understands what I'm going through on a personal level? I dunno... But that might be it."

Kari let out a soft sigh then moved to look at her left palm. The symbol wasn't glowing and Kari just stared, moving her hand up so that the moonlight seeping in the room illuminated her hand. The quiet allowing her thoughts to roam freely to random topics that had been bugging her, but she never fully focused on. She let it be, sighing softly then going back to watching the door for Inuyasha.

"Everything is so weird... But it feels right some how... Whatever it is, I don't want it to go away."

Kari relaxed at that thought while waiting. It gave her an odd comfort, knowing that thigs felt right in a weird way. It still confused her, but it was okay.

Inuyasha stood there, blinking down at her as she hugged him. It caught him off guard, like it always did when she got all soft on him like that. His arms hovered awkwardly for a second before one of them finally rested on her back, giving her a pat that was a little rough but full of that strange, warm fondness he never said out loud.

“Tch… ‘Course I like it. You think I’m that heartless?” he muttered, ears twitching a bit as he looked away, clearly not used to the praise or attention—but not rejecting it either. Her grin made something settle in him, something quiet and good. He looked down at the drawing again, eyes softening for just a moment before he tucked it into his sleeve for safekeeping.

When Kari stepped back and asked about coming inside, Inuyasha grunted softly and looked toward the house. “Yeah… I’ll head in. Just wanted to get a little air, that’s all.” His tone was casual, but his eyes flicked to her again, making sure she was still okay—less tense now, smiling again. That was enough.

“I’ll be in soon. You go ahead and let Kagome know I’m not climbin’ up any trees again tonight,” he added with a smirk, then gave her one last ruffle of the hair before turning toward the path.

[anonymousewrites]

Logos and Pathos (Book 4) Epilogue

TOS! Spock x Empath! Spouse! Reader

Epilogue: Space, the Final Frontier

Summary: The Enterprise is united.

Mouse Note: And with that, Logos and Pathos concludes! It's been such an honor to have so much support so far, and I'm so amazed by how many of you have enjoyed yourselves reading this. I never thought Stark trek would get this attention, and it's been so much fun sharing with you all. This series has meant so much to me, and I've loved writing for it. Perhaps someday we'll get a prologue to it with Strange New Worlds, but currently, I am considering this series finished. Gold and Spock will always mean a lot to me, and so will all of you! I hope to see you guys in my other stories, perhaps even the Supernatural fic releasing Wednesday. But, for now, goodbye!

            “Thank you for your hospitality,” said Saavik politely as she sat across from (Y/N) and Spock.

            “Of course,” said (Y/N), ladling plomeek soup into Saavik’s bowl.

            On another plate, a tiramisu-like dessert made from Celian plants sat ready to eat. They had small trees that grew “beans” that created bitter liquids, but the color…well, pink was a really pretty coffee color, wasn’t it?

            “How are you?” asked (Y/N).

            “My work with reassessing the Genesis project after its failure has been productive,” said Saavik. “I have trained other scientists with Dr. Marcus. It is classified, still, so I cannot discuss more.”

            (Y/N) smiled in amusement. They already knew too much about the Genesis project, so they didn’t mind Saavik not disclosing more. Plus, it was very Vulcan of her to keep to the rules. “Of course,” they said.

            “What is your current assignment?” said Spock.

            “Starfleet has not alerted me to a new assignment yet,” said Saavik. “Diplomatic negotiations with the Klingon Empire took precedence.”

            (Y/N) cleared their throat. “Yes, it did.” They and Spock had been forbidden to talk about anything from those incidents until the trials and negotiations were officially finished. They took a sip of soup and glanced at Spock. “We wanted to speak to you about that.”

            Saavik raised a brow and glanced at Spock inquisitively. “Oh?”

            “Indeed,” said Spock. He set down his spoon, and Saavik watched him as he prepared his words. “You have shown yourself to be an efficient, intelligent, productive officer.”

            Saavik nodded. It was a compliment, but Vulcans did not exaggerate. Saavik knew her capability.

            “Your career has potential,” said Spock. “And I—We—” he looked at (Y/N), who smiled “—want you to be in the best position for that potential.”

            “Your mentoring and advice—” Saavik had gotten both from Spock and (Y/N), who had taken the young Vulcan under her wing “—has been helpful.”

            “We’re glad,” said (Y/N). They grinned. “I hear you’ve started doing more than just working with coworkers. Helena told me she convinced you to go to a party with her. She had a lot of fun with you.”

            Saavik straightened. “I have been at headquarters for some time waiting for my new assignment, and people have…invited me to pass the time with them.”

            “Having friends is good,” said (Y/N), though they suspected a bit more than friendship was blossoming between Helena and Saavik. “A well-rounded officer can do their job and has time for their personal needs, too, and friendship is one of them.” It was an important lesson.

            “I have…friends,” said Saavik.

            The word implied emotion, which was odd for a Vulcan, but Saavik was honest. And she looked up to (Y/N), seeing the same wisdom Spock had long ago embraced. Emotions could be controlled, but they did not need to be an enemy to be beaten.

            “We’re happy for you, Saavik,” said (Y/N).

            “Yes,” said Spock. “And we want you to continue being…satisfied with your situation.” He wouldn’t use the word “happy.” It wasn’t a Vulcan word.

            “I hope to be content at my next assignment,” said Saavik, nodding.

            Spock laced his fingers. “That is what we wish to discuss. Saavik, we are retiring from the Enterprise in two months.”

            Saavik nodded.

            “And we want to make sure the right officers succeed us,” said Spock. “Saavik, I believe you would do well on the Enterprise.”

            “I am a command-track officer,” said Saavik. “I cannot take your position.”

            “You’d take mine,” said (Y/N). “Though a lieutenant.”

            “A Vulcan replacing a Celian empath?” said Saavik. She knew people would talk.

            “We care about people being in the right situation for themself and the right person being part of the crew,” said (Y/N) firmly. “You’re the right choice. Your race does not matter.” They smiled. “In fact, Spock and I are going to speak to Helena for a science position.”

            “Some people may judge a Celian on the science track, as they did when (Y/N) chose command instead of health, but that does not discount one’s ability,” said Spock.

            “So, Saavik, we’re not going to make you take any job,” said (Y/N). “But if you are interested, we want you to join the Enterprise crew.”

            Saavik looked between (Y/N) and Spock, the two people who had really taken care of her while she joined Starfleet. “…I am honored.”

            (Y/N) smiled, and Spock nodded. “We’re glad,” said (Y/N). “You’re going to do amazing things.”

            Spock and (Y/N) had served Starfleet for years. They’d built a life and strong reputation. They’d served an amazing ship with a crew that became family. Now it was nearly time to hand that down to deserving young officers. Like Saavik. Like Elpis. Like so many others. The future would be safe in their hands. Besides, Spock and (Y/N) weren’t gone. They were still there to do work. It would just be…different. Good, but different. New. Full of opportunity.

l

            “I’m glad Saavik accepted your offer,” said Spock while (Y/N) snacked some more on their delicious pink dessert.

            “She’s going to do great,” said (Y/N). “I know Vulcans don’t consider themselves ‘kind,’ just logical, but Saavik…her temperament is meant for command. She understands people more than she thinks.”

            Spock nodded. “Indeed. I’ve seen reports of her working on conflict resolution. She’s capable.”

            “And hopefully, Helena will take your offer for the science position,” said (Y/N). “She’s smart, analytical, and able to problem solve in new situations quickly.”

            “From evaluations, she also uses her empathy well when working with others,” said Spock. “She reads when they’re worried and gives them facts to calm anxiety before it harms a mission.”

            “She works hard,” said (Y/N). “Introverted but knows her strength is intelligence, so she uses it.” They smiled. “And, best of all, Saavik and Helena are friends. They’d made a good pair.”

            Spock raised a brow. “Of colleagues?” He knew his spouse’s thinking well.

            “If you call us colleagues when we worked together,” said (Y/N), smiling.

            “Ah, so this is matchmaking,” said Spock, a slight tease in his voice.

            “Mmmmmaybe,” said (Y/N). “But I wouldn’t put that over my job. I found out about their friendship after their skills.”

            Spock knew (Y/N) wouldn’t harm the future Enterprise crew for matchmaking. That was a happy side effect of their work.

            “I think we’ve got a good crew coming together,” said (Y/N). “Kirk, Bones, Scotty, Uhura, they’re all giving insight, finding people, talking to them. Chekov is going to be the captain. I think things are working out. All that work, all those years…it’s all going to mean something.” Spock walked to (Y/N), and they leaned against him with a soft smile. “We did a good job building a future.”

            “We did,” said Spock. “We served Starfleet as officers. We completed missions. We saved lives. And now we move on to another part of life and give the next generation their time.”

            “They’re going to do amazing,” said (Y/N), already proud. “And the Enterprise is going to be okay. The future is going to be okay.” They traced Spock’s fingers with theirs. “And we still have each other. Our family. Us.”

            “We always will,” said Spock softly, raising their hand to kiss the palm, an intimate, loving gesture. “And our lives are still continuing. It is simply a new phase. But this—” he kissed the back of their hand “—will not change.”

            “I know.” (Y/N) slid their hand so they could kiss his. Spock shivered slightly, and (Y/N) smiled. “And that’s how I know we’re going to be okay, no matter what. Because I love you. I always will.”

            “And I love you, T’hy’la,” said Spock. “Always. Across all time and all universes. I will always love you.”

            (Y/N) smiled, pulled him in, and kissed him. The future would be just fine. Starfleet had new officers. They could guide the next generations. They had logic and love. And they had one another.

l

            “You know, as reports come out, they’re saying we saved civilization as we know it,” said Kirk, leaning on the back of Spock and (Y/N)’s chairs.

            (Y/N) smiled at their friends—their family. This was their last voyage together. In space, that is. They had dinner plans to “mourn” their return already made (and they planned to make it into a party like the world hadn’t seen before).

            “Captain, that happened a month ago,” said Spock. “Must we harp on it?”

            “Hey, the headlines are coming out now. It’s fresh news,” said Bones, grinning proudly. “And the best news is that they’re not gonna prosecute us.”

            “You mean you don’t want to visit your friends in Rura Penthe?” said (Y/N) innocently.

            Kirk and Bones shuddered.

            “They might as well have prosecuted us. I felt like all those conspirators,” said Uhura. “I didn’t trust the Klingons.” She shook her head, ashamed of herself.

            “Well, they don’t arrest people for having feelings,” said Bones. He paused awkwardly and looked at (Y/N). “Do they?”

            (Y/N) laughed. “No, not at all.”

            “And it’s a good thing, too. If they did, we’d all have to turn ourselves in,” said Chekov, grimacing.

            “Aye,” agreed Scotty. “But I find a couple drinks of scotch alongside a Klingon cleared up my feelings on the matter.”

            “Mr. Scott, that is hardly protocol for diplomacy,” said Spock.

            “Nay, but it’s fun,” said Scotty.

            Kirk chuckled and looked at his beloved, loyal crew. “I think it’s time we got underway.” He sat down in his chair, and his friends smiled.

            “Captain, Starfleet wants to know our flight plans because we are scheduled to be decommissioned in the near future,” said Uhura, scoffing slightly.

            Bones rolled his eyes, and Scotty scowled. Chekov groaned. (Y/N) shook their head and laughed. There was no way they were following that instruction. This was their last adventure. They intended to have fun.

            “If I were human,” began Spock, and everyone looked at him. “I believe my response would be ‘Go to hell!’ ” He paused. “If I were human.”

            The entire bridge grinned and laughed. Spock smiled ever-so-slightly.

            “Course heading, Captain?” said Chekov, grinning widely.

            “Second star to the right, and straight on ‘til morning,” said Kirk, leaning back with a fond smile.

            (Y/N) reached out as the Enterprise flew forward. They brushed their first two fingers against Spock’s. “I love you, my dear,” they said.

            Spock looked back at them and pressed his fingers back in a Vulcan kiss. “I love you, too, T’hy’la.” That was the truest fact he knew.

Captain’s Log: This is the final cruise of the Starship Enterprise under my command. This ship and her history will shortly become the care of another crew. To them and their posterity will we commit our future. They will continue the voyages we have begun and journey to all the undiscovered countries, boldly going where no man, where no one, ...has gone before.

l

Space, the final frontier. These are the voyages of the starship Enterprise. Its five-year mission: to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no man has gone before.

Taglist:

@a-ofzest

@grippleback-galaxy

@genderfluid-anime-goth

@groovy-lady

@im-making-an-effort

@unending-screaming

@h-l-vlovesvintage

@neenieweenie

@keylimeconstellation

@wormwig

@technikerin23

@ilyatan

@nthdarkqueen

@kyalov

@starlit-cass

@rookietrek

@gingertimelord

@snowy-violet

@jaguarthecat

@jac012

[thelaurenshippen]

finally finishing up your third book, and oh my goodness i did not expect rose to be such an excellent character foil to damien. obviously the consent issues are there, but the addiction aspect is something i didn’t really click together until they talked about it. the power and allure of getting whatever you want vs dreaming of whatever you want and both affecting other peoples’ choices and privacy is so interesting—the way damien was talking with her before he left made me feel like he was talking to a younger him making the same choices and excuses, just with a healthier family to fall back on (despite rose’s family’s “current” issues). it’s interesting seeing damien tackle his own issues outside of himself, not really realizing that he had what he wanted for a small amount of time: someone to understand his power, the problems it caused, and the difficulty of controlling the addiction of it.

(just wanted to share how wonderfully nuanced your characters are and how in love with your world i am. MWAH. ty for sharing them all with us and continuing to be an inspiration.)

ahhhhh oh my god, thank you SO much!! I'm so glad you liked the book (and thank you for reading!) and I love how deeply you understand these two and their dynamic.

rose and damien were one of those surprise pairings where I knew they had a friendship, but it wasn't until I was writing Some Faraway Place that I realized just how much I felt about them! I have so many feelings about how damien wanted so badly to be better/good enough for mark but made absolutely no concrete moves to change to get there, but with rose, he actually finally realizes that he has to be an active participant in making himself better! the power of queer friendship!

I didn't expect that when I started the book. but it really is the ways in which they're similar that give them that connection and allows damien to, as you put it so well, tackle his own issues outside of himself! and in many ways, with all the love she has in her life and the people who support her, I do think that rose needed to hear certain things from someone she knew had absolutely no legs to stand on in terms of judging her for the way she used her power.

also, not for nothing, one of my absolutely favorite TBS playlists I ever made was my rose + damien angst playlist.

[delborovic]

The Canada by Night coterie/Sherriff's Department doing Breakfast Club poses. I was haunted by the idea and started it in March 2023- finally complete! I'm calling it!

[devil-hunter66]

Dante...for a brief moment, took pause at her sudden spike in volume from when she spoke...His nonchalant and otherwise care-free mannerisms replaced with a serious expression...Dante had no intention in hitting a sore spot, especially not where the subject "boredom" was concerned. But then again, he didn’t know too much about her, and he certainly wasn’t expecting her to get upset over it ether...He remained silent for a moment, letting her talk about herself and her experiences as he leaned forward with a more interested expression. Dante was many things, but an unfeeling asshole was NOT one of them. If there was something someone genuinely found uncomfortable to speak up on, or to talk about on any personal level...It is not his place to pry...However... "...Damn, that's a pretty interesting story. Can't quite say that I don't believe there isn’t much more to it, but I'll accept that for now..." Vergil watched as Dante leans forward on his seat...more so than he did before. His fingers locked together as he bore a thoughtful look on his face...one Vergil was not expecting!...Although thinking about it...considering what the twins had been through...

"...Didn't mean to hit a sore spot or anything. Not sure if it'll mean much buuut...dealing with personal matters has never been much of a strong-suit for me. I'm more of a "take it as it is" kinda guy, so it's never really bothered me all that much...Kinda get WHY you would be pretty pissed though." He then locked eyes with her, making sure she saw what could only be described as the most DEAD-SERIOUS face he could make...A face like that was enough to make even DEMONS sometimes think twice...but in this context...

"Having said that however...I wanna make one thing PERFECTLY clear...I've seen things over the years. In this line of business there is only so much you can take in before it weighs in on you indefinitely. I may be all nonchalant about it...But trust me...I GET IT...Really, I do...But don't you go assuming that I'm STUPID enough that I can't comprehend that kinda feeling...A guy can only experience enough suffering to know when others feel the same way...Trust me...When it comes down to it...even a Devil may cry when faced with the pain of having--...Lost something important to them..." ...His eyes...there was an unexpected presence behind them...a feeling of overwhelming emotions and sensations that could only be described by one word...JUST one......"HEAVY".....As quickly as his words left his mouth however...He eventually stood up and stretched his arms! All before, like a light switch...he was BACK to his ol jovial looking self! "WELP! Glad we could clear up the air in here!~ I'm gonna go finish off the rest of that statue! Hahaha! Ohhh if MUNDUS or his followers EVER see this then I better get front row SEATS!~ Wonder if Hell has some kind of popcorn equivalent down here!"

The Devil Hunter soon walked off to the statue to finish off his masterpiece! acting as if that moment just now...never even happened??...

@devil-hunter66

River's wings felt heavy as the half-blood soar over Tartarus. She followed the river Acheron until she reached it. The crack in the ground where the water had been draining.

The half-blood just wanted a normal summer vacation at camp half-blood. Of course, that wasn't going to happen. The underworld at some point had been thrown into chaos, creatures from Tartarus finding a way to flee and raise hell upon the rest of hades. Now it was up to her to figure out the issue.

"Alright. Father said this should be the way to hell." The half-blood check to make sure she had everything one last time. Rations? Check. Nectar? Check. Tools to maintain her prosthetic if it gets damage? Check. Weapon? Check. River took a deep breath and dived bomb down into the crack to hell. The quest prophecy ringing in her head.

She wasn't sure how far she was falling, or for how long. But eventually the air change. She opened her eyes to find herself in the demon world. Hell. "Okay..." She landed on the ground. "Now, how the hell do I find who I need to?" River said to herself.

With no better answer, she began walking deeper into hell. Keeping her scythe in it's cube form. But a hand around it just in case. She wasn't sure how long she had been walking, but it was at least felt like a few hours, until she finally found something else down here.

[crabsnpersimmons]

"Do your best today! I'll be waiting here when you get home, starlight~💕"

had two busy days of work outside of my cave and the only thing that kept me going was the sight of my housewife/househusband Eclipse waiting for me at home

that is, the sketch of him waiting for me to finish drawing him ��

starring @starriegalaxy's Eclipse from her Fear Factor AU/House Husband AU

[lynnetendo]

TRIED DRAWING SIFFRIN FOR THE FIRST TIME!!! FINDING MY STYLE FOR FUTURE ISAT FANART BLAH BLAH!!! NEED TO PRACTISE DRAWING SIF. SIF IS INEVITABLE

[pearl-kite]

Finished it! A couple of months ago I started this pattern by @antisocialxconstruct / @craftsbyrom and I just finished up the last squares today. After the last cross stitch, this was pleasantly straightforward and very relaxing busy-work for my hands. The pattern is available digitally in it's Kofi shop for a minimum of a dollar (I've also bought that glitchy dog skull that I'll get around to eventually 👀).

Some technicalities etc below:

One tweak I made was at the very end I decided to try a tiny bit of backstitch to make the letters stand out, and for the most part I like the addition, but I'm still debating. The way it turned out on the Y has me tilting my head back and forth.

Here's the completed one before the backstitching:

I went with 3 strands instead of 4 like it did for the sample, but I think the coverage was still pretty good. Definitely needed at least the 3 for the dark areas to stay completely dark.

With 3 strands, most colors were okay with just 1 skein of DMC thread, but I did need to run to the shop to grab a few: - DMC 3814 - Aquamarine (I had less than a square inch left when I needed to get more ;3;) - DMC 02 - Tin - DMC 797 - Royal Blue

If I had done 4 stands I would have also needed a second DMC 939 for the very dark blue, because I have just about a foot left on my spool.

I'm debating what to do with it. The last one became a pillow, but this one is juuust a bit small to be a useful pillow. I might just do it anyway, sampler throw pillows aren't that weird after all, but I might also try to kind of rig a sort of frame and stretch it like a canvas? It could be nice up on the wall that way.

[lacecap]

song about something you'll never be forgiven for. beepbox link here, and a singalong under the read more :''-)

starting point "…so don't look back" i took your hand and led you astray into the light i fear i might have made a fatal mistake walk in a straight line walk in a straight line i couldn't ask i only hope that sinners are saved but in all honesty, my honor keeps me somewhat afraid walk in a straight line don't dare look behind ♫♫♫ i had a dream we tried to reach the finishing line but in the silence still the time we killed had come back to life walk in a straight line walk in a straight line the signs had merged into a single "end of the world" where every undead thing was damned to sing "esrever ni gnos a" walk in a straight line …tell me that you're fine ♫♫♫ walk in a straight line (walk in a straight line) don't dare look behind (don't dare look behind) tell me that you're fine (something that had died) you're still breathing right? (are you satisfied?) walk between the lines (how to save a life) don't dare look behind (change the ending line) reach the end this time (tell a little lie) bring me back to life… ♫♫♫ if i'd look back and held the hands that led me astray into the light i'd proudly cry "this is my final mistake" walk with me this time walk with me this time i should have asked i know the answer's somewhat cliché but was it worth the price and worth the pain? you're fading away— walk with me this time bring me back to life… if i'd look back… if i'd look back… if i'd look back… if i'd look back… if i'd look back… if you'd look--

[kiruamon]

Happy Valentine's Day - Sun

We can't forget about Sun, can we? So after Moon also have some Valentine's art with Sun and Y/N.

[shimmershy]

Your art is already so Amasing and Then I Find Your Writing?!?!!

Oh my gods I love it soso much (I’d eat it it’s so good)

Ah wow thank you so much!! I saw you had reblogged those two Undertale fics I have on here and was really happy to see your comments; I'm glad people are still finding them and reading them because they still mean a lot to me. :)