#but since i left twitter i can finally focus on this platform more

[noodleharp]

I fucking love your bandit/captain artwork!! I just started playin ror2 and i am obsessed with them slskdjjfj the way you draw their dynamic is so good!!

ohhh im glad u like them!! i still think abt them from time to time but i never ever get the chance to talk about them.... so my infatuation dwindled a bit as a result ^^;;

mayhaps ill draw them again...

[atlastalos]

Alright, time for a re-introduction.

Sup, tumblr? long time. i’m coming back to this platform because twitter’s a fucking dumpster fire and my bff @skullamity​ led me to believe this is a good place to find community. I started this blog as a host for my portfolio way back in like 2016 and I’ve barely touched it since. I’m gonna leave the old work up here and start slowly posting more recent stuff and trying to be an actual part of things.

So, a little about me: I was born Trevor Halligan, and under that name you might have seen work from me in various places:

-A now-defunct slice-of-life webcomic called SHYEAH! that I drew with my buddy Brad back in 2009

-Several t-shirt designs submitted to various @forfansbyfans​ design contests, including the 2013 Deadpool contest, which I won.

-My webtoon Unmentionably Fresh, which ran from 2016-17, until severe depression ended its run after one season.

That depressive state lasted several years until I finally broke -- I was at a crossroads in my life. I could keep doing what I’d been doing or I could take control and try to build the life I’d always wanted. I chose the latter.

I came out as pansexual, left my abusive marriage, got laid off from my corporate job. even changed my name. I had to blow my life up to get where I wanted to go.

So, yeah. I’m Atlas. Nice to meet you.

It’s been just over a year since my legal name change was complete. In that time I’ve launched a new webtoon, My Boyfriend is a Shark with my creative partner, Liz Ransdell. Liz has been an absolute godsend for me; the exact collaborator I’ve always wanted. In addition to Shark, we’re also developing our first graphic novel (Kickstarter launching soon!) and started a creative studio as a venue for our future creative projects. I’ll be talking more about all those projects in this space in the future.

My calling as an artist is to help people tell their stories. I love creative collaborations -- skilled, passionate people using their various skills to create work that’s greater than the sum of their parts. If at the end of my life, I’ve helped others put their stories into the world, I’ll be able to die happy.

So that’s my focus. I’m hoping I can use Tumblr to bring folks along with me on that journey, and maybe even meet some dope future collaborators along the way.

If you read this far, sorry you’re having such a boring day.

Also thanks. 

[ufo-thetimesareripe]

Operation ShiftStorm is a go!

The UAP Disclosure Act (often referred to as the Schumer Amendment) has been dismantled due to pressure from various special interests. To view easy-to-read, highlighted text of the ACT as originally submitted by the Senate for inclusion in the FY2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) click HERE. Eminent domain, the Controlled Disclosure Plan, subpoena powers, the UAP Review Board and more have been removed from the ACT. Second hand sources have told PRG the new wording does call for classified material to be conveyed to the Senate Intelligence Committee. The final language of the Act will be available soon.

If passed and signed by the President, the Schumer Amendment would have been the fourth and final tranche of legislation establishing the legal structures necessary to deal with the immediate demands following confirmation by the President of the United States of a non-human (extraterrestrial) presence engaging the human race – Disclosure. The platform upon which the President would stand to make that confirmation would be constructed by promised, but long overdue, comprehensive UAP hearings before the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence.

Fortunately, the failure of the Schumer Amendment to make it into the NDAA in no way precludes those hearings. The individuals highlighted in the above graphic are the heroes of this saga. They are from left to right: Representatives Tim Burchett, Nancy Mace and Anna Paulina Luna who worked to hold the first UAP hearing in Congress since 1968 and place UAP language in the House FY29024 NDAA and Senators Michael Rounds, Kirsten Gillibrand, Marco Rubio, Mark Warner and Chuck Schumer who have sponsored UAP language in four successive NDAAs.

It’s time to manifest some activism focused on getting those hearings in January of 2024. How? It’s called a “Tweet Storm.” Given this is broader, we shall call it a “Shift Storm.” In 2014 a team on behalf of Paradigm Research Group pounded all 535 congressional offices with 2 million plus Tweets regarding the Citizen Hearing on Disclosure.

This Shift Storm focuses on just the offices of these three heroes: Senators Schumer, Warner and Rubio. Why? Collectively they have the power to schedule and hold the necessary Senate Intel Committee UAP hearings. Several dozen witnesses are ready to testify, and their testimony will set the stage for the President to formally end the Truth Embargo immediately. After that, the UAP Disclosure Act could be easily reconsidered and passed.

The goal is to deliver 100,000 tagged Tweets and 100,000 emails each to the offices of Senators Schumer, Warner and Rubio by January 1, 2024. The core message is appreciation for the UAP Disclosure Act and the imperative for UAP hearings in January before the Senate Intelligence Committee.

Tagged Tweets: they are Twitter posts that include the member’s Twitter handle. They end up in the member’s Twitter notification box monitored by staffers. Anyone in the world with access to Twitter can participate. Example: @senschumer I am disappointed with the final UAP language in the FY2024 NDAA. It is more in important than ever the Senate Intel Committee hold hearings no later than January for the powerful witnesses ready to testify.

Emails: All three members use forms that send messages to emails boxes monitored by staffers. Anyone in the world with access to the Internet and U.S. websites can participate.

Phone calls: PRG is not suggesting mass calls to these offices. It’s disruptive. But if you wish to make a call, the phone numbers are listed on the member’s websites.

Here are some Rules of Engagement: Keep in mind these Senators want Disclosure and sponsored the bill. They are the good guys.

Timing is now until January 1. Then we will reassess.

Do not lose focus by lobbying to change the language back in the NDAA. It’s settled.

No epithets, attacks, threats, rudeness – particularly on calls.

Do not convey the same message over and over (boiler plate) to the same office. Change the wording.

On calls don’t try to get to the chief of staff, aides, etc. Just give the message to the nice intern manning the phone. Don’t take too long.

With respect to Twitter tagging and emails, be relentless. Send as many as you can as many days you can, but change the message.

The tone should be strong, firm, serious, determined, committed, reasoned.

Help these three senators step into history. Share this site with your social media and email lists. Move this activist effort over to TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn, et al.

Source: Reddit

[opalthea]

dunno if anon was trying to be mean or genuinely doesn't know, but as someone who wasn't in 2019 tumblr, and as someone who FOLLOWS content creators, you don't get to talk about this. you don't get to complain about YOUR creators that YOU follow, whose works YOU consume, and say that "they should just suck it up". this isn't twitter or instagram, where everything you post would eventually be in everyone's tl. tumblr does not work that way. i found out abt all my favourite creators now literally a month or so before my finals.

how dare you say "can you really call your work genuine if you ask for your followers to share it". how dare you. do you think content creators got here because people liked and moved on? do you think youtubers got their platforms because people just left a like, subbed, and ignored them? no. even youtubers get comments, even stantwt has interactions all across - how dare you, a follower, say that content creators in tumblr, esp genshinblr, should just suck it up and continue to create more content that they don't even KNOW if people appreciate it or not.

and anon, let me enlighten you. it's not about numbers. do you think it's fair for someone who spent their time, doing what they like, sharing it with a community who only leaves a like as their "bookmark", without acknowledging the writer nor the effort put in it? do you think it's reasonable for a post to get, say, 100 likes, but barely 10 reblogs, and NO comments? i say this as someone who does not give a shit about my follower count, nor do i care about people seeing my content - it is absolutely DEMORALIZING. if push comes to shove, don't pretend to not know why your favourite writers on tumblr had left the platform, because YOU are part of the problem.

y'know, since you told ying to focus on her real life, how about you step out of tumblr for a bit and think about WHY you're so pressed about content creators who just want you to leave a nice comment. why are YOU so against being kind to the people who provide you with all these works online? you wanna talk about how people have real life jobs and tasks - well, so do WE. comparing yourself, a reader and a follower, to someone who GIVES you the written artworks for free to read during your free time, is such a low blow. hope you get some help.

i've seen ur recent posts and while i understand ur desire for heightened engagement like with 2021 genshinblr, i think u have to accept the fact that 2021 saw a lot of us in lockdown and that's why so many people were so free to create and engage with fandom content like fics. it's 2023 now and everyone has school/work and life in general to attend to — for ur own good, please consider focusing more on ur real life as well.

your posts about note count are also getting really repetitive. the more obsessed u are with getting notes, the less likely ppl are to interact bc they feel pressured into it. can u really call such engagement genuine? are popularity and numbers really ur main if not only motivator for writing?

while i can understand where you're coming from, and i apologise that my posts are getting repetitive, these kinds of interactions are the best way to spread the creations. yes, it's 2023, but there's still so many people on this site – sure! not as many as 2021 where interaction had peaked and i understand that, but still, a sizable community. i have my own life outside of this website as well, anon. :-)

if i were truly obsessed with my notes, i could just... create another sideblog and reblog my work a 100 times. the point of me emphasising the importance of reblogging is to be able to share the love you have for someone's work – because it really is visible in each reblog shared, with or without tags and comments. i have my own commitments in my own life as well and that's why it means so much for me to receive that bit of serotonin and support when people interact with it, when i'm able to write. sure, i may post something almost every day, but that's because writing is my reprieve. i've been writing for a while now, and while my blog has grown, the culture of interaction has also visibly shrunk. other people notice it. other people have spoken up about it.

i apologise if people feel guilt-tripped into interacting, because that's not my intention, and they should be making their own choice on whether or not they want to interact – but if you appreciated a creator's work, this is the reblog site. you can see so many creators fizzle out because of the lack of interactions and literally, a simple reblog will do. of course, many creators love writing and not all of us will care about the notes – but it's a nice thing for us to wake up to. seeing other people appreciate our work makes us want to create more. the more people interact with our work, the higher of a chance we have of getting a genuine, love-filled engagement. and that's just what most of us want. its not about the notes. it's about the actual interactions we get.

[crowdedimagines]

Leaked (Finale) Harry Styles

“You guys got to see a very raw and real side of us. It’s a bummer that it wasn’t our choice, we didn’t choose to reveal such a personal thing that happened, not to mention what else has been leaked.” I sigh, finally breaking eye contact with the camera sitting on a tripod in front of us. The fans will be getting a glimpse into Harry’s home for this video.

“I know what I signed up for when I got into this business, very little privacy, but I never expected it to come to this extreme. M’very private with my relationships, and I never want to see anyone-'' He pauses to focus himself again, I place a hand on his thigh and attempt to carry on. Against the better judgement of both Jeff and Jordan we both decided against a script, we had highlighted points we wanted to address, but didn’t want it to seem disingenuous.

“Harry and I lost a child last July.” I pick my head up letting the tears openly fall without letting myself choke over them, “And the song you guys have all heard came from that, a place of hurt and exhaustion. We never expected the world to hear it, and we never thought those pictures would be out in the world either. But that’s life isn’t it?” I laugh humorlessly.

The song was leaked a few hours ago now, my name having never left the top trending on twitter, but now Harry’s and several conspiracies have joined it. People cutting parts from it with raw and loud sobs coming from each of us, open for discussion among the whole world.

“We love you all, but please understand our choice to step back from the public for the time being.” Harry chimes in. We both look at each other and nod, feeling we addressed what we need to.

“Treat people with kindness, yeah?” I ask as we both get up from our spot on Harry’s couch.

“Yeah.” He pulls me in for a hug, as Jeff gets up to cut the camera. Our teams were both getting the footage and posting it to our accounts. Harry and I have both agreed to a break from phones for a bit.

“Okay, so this will be posted across all platforms, on both of your accounts shortly. I don’t think we’ll need to edit much.”

I walk over to the other side of the living room where Jordan is standing reading through her phone, she glances up as soon as she sees me coming. She puts on a smile, and pulls me in for a tight hug. She knows just how long the past few days have been.

“Alright, Paula and I booked flights, we’re heading out this afternoon to go home.”

“What about me?” I question.

“We both know that you need to stay here for a while.” She smiles, “Take some time to heal, just remember you two never fell out of love. Call me if you need anything.”

I glance back at Harry whose now joined by his sister and mother. I don’t want to leave, to be completely honest. The last thing I want is to have to go home to my empty house in L.A. Harry and I ran away from each other last year, maybe this is the opportunity for us to finally stop running.

Harry’s POV

“Don’t you think that you need to heal together this time? You can’t let her leave again.” My mum explains, trying to make her point, as quietly as possible. I watch as she glances over my shoulder to where Y/n must be somewhere.

“Mum, I can’t make her stay.” I shake my head. I couldn’t make her stay before, now we’ve spent so much time apart. All I want is to pull her into my arms, but I don’t know if that’s what she wants after all this time. Hell, after this week she might not ever want anything to do with me.

��No, but you can ask her.” Gemma nods her head in Y/n’s direction as she walks over to join us.

“Harry, can I talk to you?” Her voice is soft and calm. My shoulders visibly drop as I relax and follow her to the back porch. We sit in the same spot on the couch as we did yesterday.

“What’s going on, love?” I ask once we’ve both taken a seat.

“Well, Jordan and Paula are flying out this afternoon.” She says, she pulls her legs up close to her chest.

“And you?”

Please god tell me you’re staying.

“I think I might stay.” She picks up her head, “If that's alright with you.”

I can’t fight off the smile at this point. I just give her a simple nod, pulling her close to lean on my shoulder. I should’ve known that we were on the exact same page, we always have been.

“I don’t think I could go back to an empty house, to be honest.” She sighs.

“I don’t think I could let you walk out of that door again, to be honest.”

Y/n’s POV

“Do you mean that?” I ask, picking up my head, “Truly?”

He simply nods and bites at his bottom lip.

“What are we supposed to do, Harry? I don’t think we can just pick up where we left off?”

“No, but isn’t that the beauty of it? We can try again, try for a different outcome. Build on how much we already love each other.”

“Hmm, how much we already love each other?” I smirk, my tone taking on a teasing edge.

“Mhm.” Harry hums, his cheeks taking on a pink hue.

“Alright Styles, lets give this a shot.”

T W O Y E A R S L A T E R

“Hello? Is anybody home?” Anne’s voice rings out loudly as she lets herself in the front door.

I make my way downstairs, I’m sure that she’s found Harry who's in the kitchen getting dinner prepared. Gemma got here about ten minutes ago. I put on a record and go to stand in the doorway and watch the encounter. Anne gives her son a big hug, stealing a carrot from his cutting board as they make small chat to catch up.

“Hello.” I walk in, making my presence known.

“Look out you!” Anne squeals, “You’re glowing!” She immediately walks over to pull me in for a hug, her hands resting on my belly once I pull away.

“I feel like a bit of a whale, but thank you.” I smile.

“Oh hush it.” Harry scolds.

“How’re you feeling?”

“Like I’m having a baby in four weeks.”

“Yeah, and she’s still going on runs!” Harry says with a proud grin, “Every morning she gets up with me and we run a few miles.”

“It’s pretty much a fast walk for Harry though.” I smile.

“Yeah, but he isn’t forming a pancreas while he does it!” Gemma cuts in making us all laugh. “We’re more impressed with you.”

“Exactly.” Harry presses a kiss to my temple.

I join Gemma at the counter while Anne helps Harry finish cooking everything. I would help, but my ankles are too swollen by the end of the day, and I know everyone in the room would kick me out before I could even start.

“So, things have been going well with everything? You guys feeling ready to be parents?” Anne grins.

“Is anyone ready before they are?” I ask, “I’m just trying to take it one day at a time, and read as much as I can.”

“You guys will be wonderful parents.”

It means the world to hear this from Anne. It’s been weird to be in London for most of the pregnancy and away from my own mother, but it’s been a blessing to have Anne. She’s an amazing mom herself, and she hasn’t complained once over my odd and annoying questions.

“And if not they’ll have the best Aunt ever to make up for it.”

I roll my eyes and take Gemma’s hand in mine and set it on the front of my belly. Moving and adjusting to the exact spot that the little bean is kicking in.

“That’s mad.” She sighs, “I don’t think I would ever be able to get over that.”

“Harry can be like a leech sometimes! Can’t get him off.” I laugh.

“You feel it all, I’m going to steal as much time as I possibly can.”

We all sit down to eat, and catch up on everything that we’ve missed in life over the past few weeks. Ever since the pregnancy both Anne and Gemma have made an effort to come to our house as often as they can for meals, or even just a visit.

I think we were all a bit shocked to find out I was once again pregnant. Harry and I couldn’t believe it at first, I don’t think we wanted to. Didn’t want to risk getting our hopes up. It had been a year and a few months since we got back together when we found out. Four tests sitting on the counter, two thins lines on each of them.

We waited a long time before telling anyone, too afraid that it could be a repeat of what happened those years ago. Once we did finally tell our families they couldn’t be more excited. The fans were too, surprisingly. I debated pulling a Kylie Jenner and just disappearing from the world for months, but I knew I would get too stir crazy. So as soon as the bump was visible, Harry and I both confirmed it on social media.

The fans were happy for us, most of them were so disappointed and saddened about what happened, they felt bad that we were made to share things neither of us were ready too. This time we were trending for positive reasons, and I’ve never felt more supported by everyone in my life.

F O U R W E E K S L A T E R

“Love, are you sure I’m good to go to the studio?” Harry asks for the millionth time, not wanting to leave me home alone so close to my due date.

“Yes!” I laugh, pushing him closer to the door, “You actually have the time while the bean is inside me, I’ll need you here once they’re out.”

“Alright.” He says with hesitancy, “Please call me for anything. The studio isn’t even far from here, so please don’t hesitate with anything.”

“Ok, babe, just go so you can come back!”

“Promise you’ll call?”

“Yes, I promise.” I laugh, he’s always been protective, but now he’s to a whole nother level since the pregnancy.

“Alright, I’ll bring home food too, I really shouldn’t be gone too long.”

“That’s perfect, babe! Maybe we can get - ow!”

He instantly turns around and pulls his hand from the door when I cry out in pain.

“Darling? Are you okay?”

“No, I’m fine.” I hold out my hand, “It was just this really sharp-ow!”

I cry out again, clutching my belly. Before I know it, a warm liquid is spreading down my legs.

“Love, your water just broke!” He cheers, his eyes saying nervous but he has a smile on his face. “I guess I’m not going to the studio.”

“Oh god!” I groan, I start waddling towards the door, “Okay, you grab the go-bag, I’m gonna start walking to the car.”

I know it might take me awhile to get there. I know it’s not true, but I feel like I need to keep my knees shut from keeping the little bean from falling out.

“Right, go bag.” He mutters to himself, slowly becoming more flustered, “Should we call an ambulance?”

“No.” I laugh, taking deep breaths.

“Love, are you sure you’re okay?”

“Just grab the bag so we can go to the hospital.”

“Yeah-”

“Harry!” I yell, “In the coming hours I am going to force a human being out of my vagina. Now I personally would like to do that at a hospital, will you go grab the bag, or do you need me to do it?”

He swallows and runs upstairs to grab the bag and I make my way to the car. It doesn’t take him long at all, now he’s finally had some sense smacked into him.

“We’re really doing this?” He asks, smiling as he pulls out of the driveway.

“We’re really doing this.” I grin, taking his hand in mine.

O N E   Y E A R  L A T E R

“Happy birthday to you dear, Anderson, happy birthday to you!” We all sing to the little one year old boy I hold tight to my chest.

“Let’s blow out the candles, baby.” I lean forward and blow out the singular candle for the one year old. We made a true event of it, calling everyone we knew practically to celebrate in our backyard, complete with so many games for other children, even though our son was still too young to play most of them. Harry and I couldn’t be more proud of our little boy.

Everyone cheers, I smile looking at Harry who’s got a similar grin. A year in the making to get to this day, lot’s of late nights, but more laughter than anything else. It’s been a wonderful afternoon, everyone loving the little boy who looks practically identical to his father. Cheering as he smashes his little cake all over his face, the table, and his clothes.

“Alright, let’s have Grandma get you all cleaned up!” Anne says as she steals Anderson from me. I smile watching her take the giggly little boy inside to get the cake he’s managed to smear everywhere cleaned off.

Most everyone has left at this point, it has been a packed house to celebrate the one year old, but as it gets later things slow down. It’s finally just down to immediate family and Harry and I can put our feet up for a few minutes.

“Can you believe it? A whole year we’ve been parents.” I lean back into Harry’s side. We’re sat on the outdoor couch, a spot that has grown to contain a lot of heart to hearts over the years.

“No, he’s getting too big too fast.” Harry presses a kiss to the top of my head, “He’s going to be needing another sibling soon.”

I let out a soft chuckle.

“Hmm, is that so?”

“Yeah, who wouldn’t want another kid like that?” We both look over our shoulders to peek in to see Gemma and Anne playing with blocks on the floor in the living room.

“Are you gonna push the next one out?” I tease, I get up and grab the only unopened present that’s remained on the table all day.

“It’s funny that you should say that.” I smirk, turning my attention back on the man I love. I hand him the box, neatly wrapped in polka-dot paper.

“What’s this?”

“Just open it.” I sit down again.

He tears the paper from the box and flips the lid open. His jaw dropping as soon as he sees the contents. Pulling out an olive green tee shirt for Anderson. Simply written across it is “Big Brother”

“You’re teasing me?” His eyes look hopeful though, like he’s praying I wouldn’t tease him like that.

“You can check the four tests in my drawer in the bathroom if you don’t believe me.” I smirk, “Or the fact that I have an appointment at the clinic this Monday.”

“Shut up.” His grin only getting wider.

“Baby Styles number two, coming soon.”

He tackles me down to the couch, a big warm hug.

“Oh my god.” He sighs into my neck. “I can’t wait to do this all again.”

“Me neither.” I grin, rubbing my hands up and down his back. He finally pulls back to get a good look at me, holding my face in his hands.

“God, I love you so much.”

“I love you, too.”

kinda cheese, but a fun way to end it! this was cute lol

[rainii-reads]

Chateau

DESCRIPTION: After a fateful encounter, you and Yoongi have finally decided to go public with your relationship.

This was inspired by the song Chateau by Tokio Hotel. Bolded dialogue are direct lyrics.

WORD COUNT: 1, 903 PAIRING: Idol!Yoongi x Reader GENRE: Fluff and comfort

Warnings: Implied slut shamming; analogies referencing cuts (there is no self-harming, only references to words hurting.)

Author’s note: This is my first fanfiction for BTS, and my first story in a long, long time. Hope it’s not too bad! You can also read it on AO3.

🌸

Taking up Arms: ARMY Feuds Over SUGA and Y/N

As news of BTS’s SUGA sweeps the kPop world, fans are divided. Many ARMYs citing Y/N as a clout seeker - stealing their Min SUGA. ARMY’s on the offense challenge the perceived ownership of the Bangtan rapper. This brings to question, however, do these fans approve of the relationship or are they simply defending SUGA?

The Next Yoko Ono: Will Y/N be the end of Bangtan Sonyeondan

Silence rings clearer than the stroke of the keyboard. Three weeks have passed since word broke of the famous rapper’s new relationship. The onslaught of hatred continues to poor out in droves, yet silence remains from the musician’s fellow members. Is it possible the six comrades also dislike Y/N?

Anti-Y/N Accounts Take Twitter by Storm

In the last week Twitter has taken action and began removing dozens of accounts dedicated to canceling Y/N. While Twitter works to delete the insults and threats of harm, where is Big Hit? Will they take action to protect BTS’s SUGA and his new sweetheart?

“Sweetheart?” You snapped. “And what’s with the italics – we all know you’re being sarcastic. No need to lay it on thicker.” You fumed for a moment longer, at the snippy report, before you found your laptop being pulled from your grasp. You dared not look up at the sleepy gaze of the man in debate.

“Sweetheart, why are you reading the headlines again?”

It was the truth. Your streak of laziness was something Yoongi often appreciated about you. It resulted any many home dates and working side-by-side in the Genius Lab at all hours of the day. Shared moments you loved. However, you couldn’t handle any more inquires from that man, he had been unyielding for days, and you were slowly breaking.

“Excuse me, are their free refills on black coffee?”You had asked, trying to spare him from the one-sided conversation (if it could even be called that). Yoongi used the moment to escape and take a seat at the table nearest you, waiting for his iconic iced-americano. You remember the sweet smile he gave you as he mouthed ‘thank you’ – the start to your simple chitchat about the shop’s décor and more.

You often giggle as you remember the notes you passed on the plane ride home. The ones kept safe in your nightstand. Had you not looked up, the moment he walked down the cramped isle, Yoongi wouldn’t have shared a smile with you, before taking his seat in first-class.

Within an hour of the flight, a young, excited stewardess had come to your seat handing you a folded sheet of paper. Noticing she was waiting for you to read the note, you unfolded it and struggled to stifle the laugh that emerged. “So, who is your bias?” Yoongi wrote in memory of when your phone rang at the coffee shop, announcing your ARMY status as Converse High played. It was the rare time you had left your sound on.

From time to time, you wondered about the excited flight attendant. You wish you could see her again just so you could tell her thank you for putting up with Yoongi’s archaic flirting. Had she not been so kind and willing, your relationship may not have formed.

These and many more memories were what put you to ease when you sat in a conference room at HYBE Entertainment. It was there where plans were made for the announcement your relationship with the one and only Min Yoongi of BTS. Photos of your not-so-secret dates had progressively found their way onto Tumblr and Twitter, gaining the attention of gossip sites. However, it was more appropriate to call it an interrogation than a planning session.

“Y/N,” you remember the head of PR starting, “Are you sure there are no past scandals that will cause Min Yoongi any problems?” The intention behind ‘scandals’ had not been lost on.

Your usual demeanor was gone as you snipped back. “I’m pretty sure I was too lazy to have any scandals.”

Yoongi snorted as he held back his laugh.

It was the truth. Your streak of laziness was something Yoongi often appreciated about you. It resulted any many home dates and working side-by-side in the Genuis Lab at all hours of the day. Shared moments you loved. However, you couldn’t handle any more inquires from that man, he had been unyielding for days, and you were slowly breaking.

Your sarcasm hadn’t gone unnoticed. “Do you not understand what kind of position you are putting our artist and company in? We need to be prepared for whatever we will need to clean up after you. You need to take this seriously.” Intentions ringing clearly, again.

In your heart, you knew he trying to do right by Yoongi and the company, but the judgement that wove into his words cut. You also took offense to how he made you sound like a disease that clung to Yoongi, bringing him harm.

As you looked back, it was the first of many wounds that told you, you were unworthy of Min Yoongi.

“Y/N is very aware of what implications a public relationship will have.” The man in question spoke, his tone shifting as he said, “She is more than clear of any scandals. Worst we’ll see are malicious lies and rumors – no truth within them – and that is where this discussion will end.” As Yoongi spoke, his few words carried immense weight. For each previously inflicted cut, his words bandaged themselves around to ease the pain.

Heeding the warning, the interrogation ended, and the meeting regained its original focus: preparation for the announcement and aftermath.

Two weeks after the tense convening, the news was released through an official statement form HYBE, confirming the relationship of Min Yoongi and his new girlfriend. The media and social-media platforms were instantly in a frenzy and, as planned, everyone remained silent. It had been decided that everyone would keep silent for a month, to see what would earn a response.

That singular month had been the sharpest cut to your fragile skin.

_______________________

Breaking through your thoughts, Yoongi spoke again, “Y/N.”

You looked up at him, finally, and sighed. “I’m sick, okay? I can’t help but want to see what is being said about me, about us. Did you see they’re calling me Yoko Ono? Will the media ever cease with the constant Beetles comparisons? Don’t they see you guys are tired of responding to the accolades?”

He spared you a look, leaving you to end your rambles. The rambles he knew you were using to deflect from your current, unhealthy obsession.

“I really can’t help it Yoongi,” You sighed. “In less than a week we can finally speak out and I need to know what I’m defending myself against.”

In an almost languid fashion, he placed the laptop down and sat next to you. Pulling you closer as he organized his thoughts. “That’s not really for you to worry about. The company and I will handle that.”

“No, I need to do something. I can’t just hide behind you. People are talking about us and they’re going to watch and critique every little thing we do. I know that isn’t what we discussed, but this anxiety is unlike anything else.”

He reached out and gently ran the tips of his fingers down the sides of your face, smoothing out any traces of stress. The very hand that famously held a tight grasp on a black microphone, was now the source of your ease. The very hand that was adored by many, was saved for you.

“Here’s the thing,” he spoke slowly, “People are gonna talk. So, let them talk; let them talk about us. People are gonna watch. So, let 'em touch, let 'em see, let 'em feel what love is.”

They were simple words, yet, as the always did, they healed the damages from the last three weeks.

Tears overwhelmed your eyes, gliding down to touch the tips of his fingers. “Let it all go, since it finally happened.” He had worried about the brave face you had been parading. “I know they’re going to talk. I know they’re going to watch. Baby, I don’t mind as long as it’s you and I. We’ll just let them see what real love is.”

As you processed the abundance of emotions that had accumulated, Yoongi held you close. Occasionally whispering the right sentiments to soften the anxiety more. While you laid with him, you wondered: Exactly how much had to go right for you to be with him? The gossip columns may say that the two of you were different, too different in fact, but your time together showed you how alike you were. How right you were for each other.

Many more challenges awaited you, but with him you knew it would be fine. You were not coming down from your cloud.

_______________________

Later that evening, as the tears dried and the anxiety eased to rest, you proposed a trip. “Hey, the next time were in California we should stay at the Chateau Marmot.”

“Isn’t that place haunted?” His abundance of quirky knowledge never ceased to amaze you.

After a quick search to confirm, you scratched the plan. “I’ll find another chateau. One free of the paranormal.”

A short moment of silence passed before you asked your next thought, “What did you mean earlier when you said, “let them touch”?

Yoongi looked up from his phone and paused for affect. “Don’t know. It just sounded right in my head – I didn’t mean anything weird by it.” He laughed, exposing his renowned smile.

“Pervert.” You teased, tossing a pillow his way.

In an unexpected fashion, Yoongi lunged forward seeking retaliation. Having not anticipated it, you stumbled off the bed, in an attempt to run away, but he pulled you back before you could escape. In the most cliché of moments, he tickled your sides until the fits of laughter led to you sharing a loving gaze and slow kiss.

“You’re right,” you said as your lips separated, “Let ‘em talk – we’ll show them what real love it.”

_______________________

The Power Couple that is Y/SN

A year has since passed since news of Y/SN occupied our every thought. In celebration of our favorite power couple, we’ve broken down the Top 10 Reasons why we love Y/SN!

Goals: How do we land a relationship like SUGA and Y/N’s?

Recently, photos and videos of a not-so-secret date between SUGA and Y/N made their way onto the internet. As the young couple is seen leaving Chateau de Sureau, they’re hand-in-hand showing signs of laughter. The love between the two is so clear not even an anti-Y/SN could deny it. So, the question remains, how do we get our own fairytale romance?

We’ve been asking, but has SUGA?

The question all fans of Y/SN have been wanting to know: When will SUGA ask the big question? Our sources suggest it may be sooner than you might think. As BTS wraps up their latest world tour, preparing to go back to the studio, rumors of the young rapper ring shopping have bubbled up. Whether this is true or not remains to be seen, but we look forward to the exciting news for our favorite couple.

[nugnthopkns]

tell you i miss you but i don’t know how

word count: 2.7k

warnings: insinuated fem!reader, a singular swear word, it’s kinda angsty i guess

recommended listening: the story of us | taylor swift

a/n: long time hockey fan, long time reader, first time writer. i’ve been thinking about posting for a while and decided to bite the bullet. no time like the present i suppose. tagging some folks i feel might be interested (but there’s literally zero pressure please feel free to ignore) @matbaerzal​ @davidpastrsnack​ @troubatrain​ @jamiedrysdales​

Breaking up was for the best. 

You repeat the phrase like a mantra. It’s the first thing you think when you wake up, in the back of your mind as you sit in your cubicle, and verbally repeated anytime you pass a mirror. Deep down you know it’s right; you and Tyson aren’t on compatible lifepaths, and that’s okay. You just wish it didn’t hurt so much to say goodbye. He’s an easy person to miss, with his infectious smile and quick wit. Tyson’s the only person who’s made you laugh so hard tears roll down your cheek; the one who always picked up a bag of pretzels on his way home from the rink so you could have a snack after work. Though you didn’t expect to get over him quickly, you had no idea you’d still miss him nearly a year later. Or that it would hurt so much every time you see him in public. 

♠♠♠♠♠

The bar offers a reprieve from the brisk Denver wind. October has been unusually chilly so far, but the bodies packed like sardines in the open room create all the heat insulation you need. It’s a Friday night and you’re hoping to unwind after a stressful week at work. It’s audit season, meaning you’ve had to pull crazy late nights as you read over the financial records of the firm’s junior partners. Today was particularly terrible, with the computer system crashing, and you really need a drink. Your friends are supposed to meet you, but a text confirms that traffic is heavier than they anticipated and they’re running late. 

Not wanting to waste precious time, you head straight for the only empty space at the bar. A bartender a few years older than you sees you approach and leans close to hear your order over the thumping bass. “Could I just grab a gin and tonic?” you ask, and she smiles before turning away to make your drink. A minute later a drink is placed in your hand and you scour the venue for a table. A small booth is available in the corner; the perfect size for your party. It turns out to be the perfect spot for people watching, and you casually sip your drink and occasionally scroll through instagram while you wait. A text from your friend alerts you everyone is fifteen  minutes out. Though it’s pretty crowded everyone seems to be congregating on the dance floor so you don’t hesitate to leave your table and order a second drink. 

This gin and tonic goes down easier than the first, and soon you’re on your third. There’s still no sign of your friends anywhere and the balls of your feet ache from the heels you wore to the office today. You abandon your plan to meet them at the door, firing off a text giving your location in the venue. Once sitting down, you take off your shoes and rub at your feet. Why did you choose today to abide by the dress code? You typically wore a discreet pair of sneakers and wished you could go back in time to change your shoe choice. 

“I see you’re still drinking gin and can’t wear heels for more than two hours.”

His voice sends shivers down your spine. You look up to see Tyson smiling down at you, and the room spins around you. The entire reason you picked this bar was because it was the only one the boys didn’t frequent, but it seems they’re here anyways. 

“I’m consistent,” you say, trying to keep your voice even. The sight of Tyson makes your heart clench. He looks good, glowing the way that means the team came out with a win and that he played well and put up some points. 

Tyson nods to the empty seat across from you, and against your better judgement you allow him to sit. A small section of your brain thinks he’s going to confess he’s been miserable the last few months, that he’s still madly in love with you. It seems to be the part controlling the rest of your body. “That’s one thing that’ll never change. How’s work?”

You hum wistfully, wishing he wouldn’t make small talk. How is this so easy for him? “Busy,” you sigh. “It’s audit season so the department is swamped. The boys still causing issues?”

“They’re annoying as ever.” He smiles at you again. The sick feeling in your stomach doesn’t subside. Tyson gives you a quick recap of the Avs’ season so far, and you half pay attention. You’ve gone to great lengths to avoid seeing him: switched the way you drive home, where you hang out with friends, what grocery store you go to. It’s a little ironic he’d find you here of all places. 

Idle chatter occurs for a while. Tyson’s talking to you like he’s reuniting with a childhood friend, not an ex-lover. As much as you find the conversation uncomfortable, you can’t turn him away. You miss sitting with him, talking about anything under the sun. Life hasn’t been as bright since the break up. No matter how hard you try, nothing fills the Tyson sized hole in your heart. In a twisted way his presence is comforting, a reminder of what once was. Eventually his teammates realize he’s gone missing and come to whisk him away. 

“See you around Y/N,” Tyson says, a little bewildered because J.T is dragging him by the belt loops. 

All you can croak out is a feeble “Yeah.” He doesn’t look back once he’s away from the table. You shouldn’t have expected him to; he seems to be doing fine. Well even. Every step he takes breaks your heart a little more, and you curse yourself for missing him and down the rest of your drink. 

Your friends find you crying in the bathroom and usher you home. 

♠♠♠♠

Despite being separated from Tyson, you’re still close with some members of the Avalanche extended family. Mel Landeskog continually reaches out, ensuring you’re doing the best you can given the circumstances. It isn’t easy when your ex-boyfriend is the pride of Denver, plastered over every billboard in a fifteen mile radius of the city. When she called to ask if you’d emergency babysit Linnea while she ran errands you jumped at the opportunity to help. 

“Thank you so much,” Mel says, cooing to her daughter who’s comfortably placed in your arms. 

“It’s not a problem,” you insist, “I’m just glad I can finally start repaying you for everything you’ve done for me.”

She shakes her head and rolls her eyes, telling you to text her if you need anything picked up at the store. You’re then left alone with the baby who is luckily one of the happiest you’ve ever seen. The first hour or so is spent entertaining Linnea with various toys and games. Her smile and laugh melt your heart, and your mind briefly flashes to conversations you had about children with Tyson. You push them from your mind, not wanting to lose your focus. The child in front of you is the one that matters, not the hypothetical one from times past. Around two she gets fussy; a bottle and quick diaper change satiate her. 

“You having fun pretty girl?” you coo. “I’m not always the most exciting to be around.” She doesn’t respond; just looks up at you with heavy lids. You pull her closer to your chest, rocking gently back and forth on your heels. Within minutes she’s soundly asleep and you head upstairs to place her in the crib. 

Back on the main floor, you settle into the corner of the couch. The baby monitor is on the coffee table and you keep your laptop at a low volume to ensure you’d hear anything. You sift through the mess in your inbox, deleting promotional emails and replying to those that need your attention. After killing half an hour, you quickly check on Linnea before scrolling through social media. According to twitter the Avalanche are on a six game winning streak and are looking to keep it alive. You honestly could care less about hockey anymore; it’s a painful reminder that Tyson is no longer yours. In truth you’re happy for the team because they work hard and deserve it. Other social media platforms yield nothing of interest and you soon feel yourself nodding off. Looking at the clock you realize there’s about an hour left in the baby’s nap, so you let yourself sleep. 

A knock on the door startles you awake. Careful not to cause a commotion that could wake Linnea you head in the direction of the entryway. The knocking increases as you approach, and you open the door to a disheveled Tyson.

“What are you doing here?” You didn’t mean for the question to come off so rude, but it does. 

He pays it no mind. “Is Gabe home yet?”

“No,” you sputter. “I’m watching Linnea while Mel stepped out.” 

Tyson looks stumped. “He should be home by now. We had plans to unwind before the game.” You make no attempt to stop him from entering, and he takes his shoes off without another word. Aimlessly trailing behind him, you let out a breath you didn’t know you were holding when he heads to the guest room. “I’m gonna take a nap, have Landy wake me up when he gets home.”

“Can do,” you sigh, but it falls on deaf ears. Tyson’s already got the door shut, and you imagine he’s climbing under the covers, blissfully unaffected by your presence. You can’t say the same. Knowing he’s less than fifty feet from you sends you spiraling. Flashbacks of pre-game cuddles grace the back of your eyelids, and you rub your temples furiously to get rid of the images. It doesn’t help. You want nothing more than to not be bothered by how much you miss seeing him. You miss the way his hands felt entangled with yours and how sweet his voice sounds in the morning. Being this hung up on a person so long after a relationship has ended can’t be healthy. 

The baby monitor crackles, signaling the baby, and the only reason you haven’t fled, is once again awake. Linnea’s room is bright and cheerful; the perfect hideaway from Tyson. Sometime during your tenth reciting of Green Eggs and Ham Mel returns. She finds you upstairs and giddily sweeps up her child, missing her terribly even though she was only gone for a couple of hours. 

“Did everything go okay?”

You nod. “She was a dream. The happiest baby I’ve ever seen. She might need to be changed soon though.” 

Mel nods. “I saw Tyson’s car in the driveway, did he meet Gabe?”

“He’s actually asleep in the downstairs guest room,” you whisper, scared he’ll sense you’re talking about it, and by extension thinking about him, missing him. 

“Oh. Shit.”

That’s the understatement of the year. “Yeah.” You quickly help put away the groceries before heading out, not wanting to disrupt the routine more so than you already had. Really though, you want to be as far away from the Landeskog’s as possible before Tyson wakes up. You’ll have to do a better job of avoiding him in the future, you decide on the way home. You’re heart can’t take seeing him this frequently – or at all. 

♠♠♠♠

You would rather be anywhere than the Pepsi Center. It’s the first time you’ve been in the arena since breaking up with Tyson and you’re downright miserable. However, you promised your younger brother you’d take him to a game the next time he visited Denver with your parents and you aren’t about to break his heart. Ryan is borderline obsessed with the Avalanche and hockey in general. At eleven he’s showing significant promise and you know he works hard.

“Ry, slow down,” you huff, desperately trying to keep up with him. The kid is swaying through the throng of people at lightning speed, desperately trying to make it to your seats to catch warmup. Wanting to make the experience special for him, you purchased seats along the glass across from the Avs bench. Your brother halts, tapping his foot impatiently as you join him and match his stride. 

Contrary to what Ryan thinks, your seats have not been stolen and warmup is just starting. His winter jacket is soon placed on the seat, revealing the too big jersey underneath. The number seventeen nearly sits at his elbow and the name-bar is askew because one side keeps slipping down, but your brother’s happy. He’s preoccupied with watching players do passing drills, hands pressed against the glass, and you allow yourself to look around. Virtually nothing has changed since the last time you were here. The banners are still the same, the energy electric. One small difference is your seating arrangement: the better halves’ box is no longer a luxury you have available to you. A quick glance in that direction confirms they’re enjoying themselves, laughing and no doubt in the midst of planning the next off-season wedding. 

Ryan grips the hem of your sweater to get your attention. “Look Y/N,”  he squeals, “Tys and J.T are coming over!” Sure enough, the two friends are making a beeline in your direction. Tyson waves and Ryan eagerly reciprocates. You’re reminded just how much he misses Tyson; they were the best of friends whenever they could get together. Another piece of your heart breaks in that moment, as you realize you aren’t the only hurting from the breakup. 

“You’ve got him in the wrong jersey Y/N,” J.T smirks. “Think he’d look better with thirty-seven plastered all over.”

You roll your eyes. “I’ll remember that Compher. You got the spare change lying around to buy him one?” There’s no malice in your voice; you truly miss joking around with him. 

Tyson throws a puck high enough to clear the plexiglass. “Ry-Guy, catch!” It lands unceremoniously at Ryan’s feet, but he beams as he picks it up. The two boys share a makeshift fist bump and quickly catch up with each other. It’s been over a year since they’ve seen each other at this point, and Ryan has so much he wants to talk about. J.T tells a joke that makes the younger boy laugh, and Tyson turns his attention to you. 

“It’s nice to see you again,” he says, doing his best to convey his sincerity. The energy of the area and the adrenaline have Tyson shaking slightly, and he rocks back onto his blades. 

You study his facial features as you inhale. He’s still incredibly handsome, just slightly more defined, like he’s growing into himself. “Likewise,” you exhale. You know you shouldn’t lie but you can’t help it; for Ryan’s sake you need to pretend that seeing Tyson doesn’t make you want to curl into a ball and cry. He smiles sadly, like he knows you’re putting on a show. He probably does – you’ve never been good at hiding your emotions from him. Has been able to see how much you hurt every time you interact?

Ryan recaptures Tyson’s attention for a few final moments before he has to return to the locker room. With a high-five and a promise to call soon he skates away, leaving your brother to gush about his idol. The game goes better than you could have ever imagined; the Avs gain a landslide victory and Tyson gets a hatrick. After each goal he points in your direction and Ryan goes berserk. You catch yourself smiling, proud of his accomplishment, before you realize you won’t be at the celebratory afterparty. That isn’t your life anymore. 

The traffic out of the arena is terrible, and Ryan’s asleep in the backseat before you hit the interstate. In some sort of daze you think about what you’d be doing with Tyson right now if you were still together. Maybe you’d be getting ready to make an appearance at a club to celebrate the big game, but it’s more likely you’d be pressed together on the couch, watching a nature documentary to unwind. It’s moments like that you miss most; where you were both too comfortable and enamored with each other to care about your social obligations. A single tear escapes and flows down your cheek. One turns into ten, and soon you’re sobbing over lost love. 

♠♠♠♠

Tyson Jost isn’t someone you could ever stop loving. He’s the human equivalent of the sun, and even now your life revolves around him. It’s centered on missing him, sure, but that’s a part of him nonetheless. You can only hope it gets easier to deal with.

[calacuspr]

This England team has shown us all what the power of sport really means

There have been a few times in recent years where the entire nation has appeared united and optimistic – and almost all of them have been connected to sport.

The World Cup in Italy in 1990, the EURO 96 in England and the London 2012 Olympic Games all come to mind as moments that will endure as epochs that transcend everything else going on in the world.

England has been particularly divided in recent years as the Leave and Remain factions argue; the challenges facing the nation during the COVID-19 pandemic; and the economic struggles that so many have encountered pretty much since the financial collapse a decade ago.

At Calacus, we work with organisations who see the value of sport to positively transform society and the England team has shown that throughout the build-up to EURO 2020 and beyond, they have brought the nation together in a way little else can.

Granted, it helped that England did so well, reaching the final of the tournament. It is hardly a new phenomenon that the squad is so multi-cultural, with players with family heritage from around the world.

While the aftermath of the defeat to Italy has shown the unpalatable side of society, the way in which the England manager and players have conducted themselves has been a masterclass in authentic communications.

STAY TRUE TO YOUR VALUES

Taking the knee has been part of football tradition in England for more than a year now, highlighting inequality and promoting diversity.

The England team have been criticised by many, with the Conservative MP for Ashfield, Lee Anderson, announcing that he would not watch “his beloved England team” while the players took the knee; Home Secretary Priti Patel suggesting that it was nothing more than “gesture politics.” and Prime Minister Boris Johnson refusing to criticise those who booed the team.

Given the racism that the likes of Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Raheem Sterling and others have suffered, particularly from online trolls, it’s remarkable that politicians sought to condemn them and accuse the team of Marxist tendencies and BLM affiliation rather than a compassionate plea for solidarity and equality over division.

England defender Tyrone Mings said: “Everyone’s entitled to their opinions. The home secretary is one of many, many people who oppose us taking the knee or refuse to defend it . . . we [have tried] to educate and inform the minority who refuse to acknowledge why we take the knee and want to boo it.”

Notably, the boos faded as the EURO 2020 tournament progressed and the team got to the later stages and it speaks volumes that many of those politicians who criticised the team then tried to associate themselves with them through staged photography that fooled no one.

CELEBRATE INCLUSION

This England team are no strangers to speaking up for those who don’t have a voice.

Marcus Rashford has campaigned for an end to child hunger and has twice forced the government to make u-turns over free school meals.

Raheem Sterling, one of the stars of the tournament for England and who has been vilified himself by media and fans alike, has fought hard to call out bigotry in the fight against racism.

EURO 2020 started during Pride month and saw players wear rainbow laces and captains use rainbow armbands, despite some mixed messaging from UEFA.

When England played Germany in the round of 16, captain Harry Kane joined his counterpart Manuel Neuer in wearing a rainbow armband with England's official Twitter account saying: “@HKane will join @DFB_Team 's Manuel Neuer in wearing a rainbow captain’s armband for tomorrow’s game at @wembleystadium to mark the end of Pride month, as the #ThreeLions stand in allyship with LGBTQ+ communities around the world.”

Kane himself explained: “From our point of view, it is a show of solidarity with the German national team from all of us at the England national team to be united in trying to kick out all inequalities there are. We’re on a huge platform on a big stage so it is obviously a great opportunity to do so.”

Jordan Henderson has shown himself to be a captain on and off the field, supporting local charities during lockdown as well as leading his Liverpool team to success over recent years.

He is thought to be one of the main drivers behind the team planning to donate its EURO 2020 prize money to good causes.

Their donation – which could be in the millions – will be made to NHS charities now that the football tournament has concluded.

The team made a statement last May which said: “Following positive discussions with the FA, the England senior men's squad are pleased to confirm that a significant donation from their international match fees will be made to NHS Charities Together via the #PlayersTogether initiative.

“This contribution will be taken from a fund already set aside to support a variety of worthy causes using all match fees collated since September 2018.”

While England supporters still let themselves down by booing national anthems at times during the tournament, it shows the progress that this England team has prompted that Joe White, an England fan who co-chairs Gay Gooners, Arsenal’s LGBT+ supporters group, attended the England v Germany match at Wembley Stadium “in full makeup.”

They wore red lipstick, shimmery eyeshadow and mascara along with a rainbow flag and England flag painted on their face to complete the look.

They tweeted: “This is a really small and personal point but today was my first game at Wembley in full makeup and overtly queer (as opposed to just camp). Absolutely no issues from fans and some lovely chats.

“Despite being absolutely petrified pre game, really proud of our fans”

Henderson responded: “Hi Joe great to hear you enjoyed the game as you should. No one should be afraid to go and support their club or country because football is for everyone no matter what. Thanks for your support, enjoy the rest of the Euros.”

How refreshing that the LGBTQ+ community can now support the national team with no fear of abuse or intimidation and that the Three Lions Pride can display positive banners – understandably celebrating Henderson’s goal against Ukraine.

ENCOURAGE TEAMWORK

England manager Gareth Southgate arguably had one of the most talented England squads in recent memory.

The team’s headquarters at St George’s Park became a centre of fun with photocalls featuring the likes of Bukayo Saka jumping into a pool on a flying unicorn inflatable and Ed Sheeran playing a special concert for the team not to mention a preview showing of Top Gun Maverick and call with its star Tom Cruise.

While early on, there was uproar among fans over players who had been left out of the starting XI or even the squad, with flair giving way to pragmatism, Southgate showed how much the team ethic mattered to him.

After the 4-0 victory over Ukraine, Southgate paid tribute to the members of his squad who had not featured much during the tournament.

He said: “I am thinking about the players who I had to leave out of the 23 because they have been such a massive part of what we’re doing. It is so difficult to keep a group of this size feeling valued and yet those guys have been phenomenal about how they have sacrificed themselves for the group.

"I feel the responsibility keenly. But it is these challenges that make us."

Not once during the tournament did any stories leak of disgruntled players, while the players reflected the afore-mentioned values by resisting well-trodden paths of nationalism that previous encounters with the likes of Germany may have engendered.

In fact, this England team have shown dignity in the face of criticism and the very definition of what it means to be a team – there are no egos, no vested interests.

Where once supporting England meant violence and xenophobia, this England team has inspired a new identity with a commitment to diversity, inclusion and a more tolerant society, which is a credit to them all.

SHOW REAL LEADERSHIP

It was quite telling when, during the celebrations following England’s win over Denmark, former international Gary Neville said: “The standard of the leaders in the past couple of years in this country has been poor but look at that man there... he’s everything a leader should be: respectful, humble, tells the truth, genuine. He’s fantastic, Gareth Southgate.”

Southgate has been humble, engaging, honest and resolute that he knew what he wanted to do and would not waver, even when senior politicians criticised some of the decisions made by him and his management team.

Ahead of the tournament, in an essay on patriotism, titled Dear England, Southgate linked football and national identity and underlined why the game means so much more than just sporting excellence.

“I have a responsibility to the wider community to use my voice, and so do the players. It’s their duty to continue to interact with the public on matters such as equality, inclusivity and racial injustice, while using the power of their voices to help put debates on the table, raise awareness and educate.

“On this island, we have a desire to protect our values and traditions – as we should – but that shouldn’t come at the expense of introspection and progress.”

Southgate has been calm and assured throughout his tenure, ensuring that he and the team are consistent in their focus, messaging and conduct. There have been no scandals, no drama and every press conference or media opportunity has been assured and engaging.

FACE ADVERSITY HEAD-ON

Losing on penalties is part of football, but it’s also something that England have encountered at a number of major tournaments.

The backlash after England’s defeat was brutal, with the three players who missed penalties, Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford and Bukayo Saka all targets of racist abuse.

Some MPs also used the defeat as an opportunity to tell players to keep out of politics, such as Andrew Rosindell, who tweeted: “We are all proud of our England team, who have had the support of the whole country over recent weeks, but please focus of football, not politics. If you win for England, you win for everyone!”

Home Secretary Priti Patel expressed her outrage at the racism, prompting Mings to again address her double standards.

He said: “You don’t get to stoke the fire at the beginning of the tournament by labelling our anti-racism message as ‘Gesture Politics’ & then pretend to be disgusted when the very thing we’re campaigning against, happens.”

Soon after the game, the mural in tribute to Rashford was vandalised, prompting hundreds of positive messages and fans voicing their support for the Manchester United forward.

Rashford tweeted: ““I’ve grown into a sport where I expected to read things written about myself. Whether it be the colour of my skin, where I grew up, or, most recently, how I decide to spend my time off the pitch.

“I dreamt of days like this. The messages I’ve received today have been positively overwhelming and seeing the response in Withington had me on the verge of tears. The communities that always wrapped their arms around me continue to hold me up.

“I’m Marcus Rashford, 23-year-old black man from Withington and Wythenshawe, South Manchester. If I have nothing else I have that. For all the kind messages thank you. I’ll be back stronger. We’ll be back stronger.”

CONCLUSION

The England team have shown without doubt the power of sport to unify – and while EURO 2020 is now over, we have the Olympic Games coming up where athletes will come together in the spirit of competition and camaraderie.

As Southgate put it: “The reality is that the result is just a small part of it. When England play, there’s much more at stake than that.

“It’s about how we conduct ourselves on and off the pitch, how we bring people together, how we inspire and unite, how we create memories that last beyond the 90 minutes. That last beyond the summer. That last forever.”

While the positivity has proved to be a brief moment in time, the England squad showed society how to empathise, respect and engage in a way that has been in short supply for so long.

[astralaffairs]

okay okay i was brainstorming a fotp verse drabble request and i got to thinking... if thomas ever got asked about y/n and her articles on him at like a press conference or something, what would he say? obviously he isn't going to reveal... whatever their relationship is but would he praise her writing? or would he crack a few (more lighthearted) jokes at her expense? u don't have to drabble this or anything i was just curious 🥺

I LOVE IT he'd totally be trying to tread lightly like u just KNOW she's there in the audience watching him like 🤨 but he absolutely wouldn't be able to keep himself from making fun of her j a lil. that man is ultimately just a big softie tho

--------------

The room he'd rented out for his press conference had been far from spacious -- it couldn't have been more than twenty rows of metal chairs which sat before where he stood at a podium at the front of the room. The event had been limited; reporters could only be sent from approved publications (a restriction that, in Y/N's opinion, was just another way of saying they were aiming for as much confirmation bias as possible), and as the primaries had made it abundantly clear who would end up as the Republican presidential nominee, everyone had been clamoring for spots.

Not being even close to a senior reporter, Y/N hadn't expected to be sent. Her original plan for the evening included watching the live stream on her laptop and texting the keynote speaker all the mockery she'd be able to offer for his answers. However, her history with Jefferson -- that is, the Jefferson campaign, of course -- had apparently granted her a sharp, glossy lanyard and a seat in the second row. She'd neglected to mention that small detail to him, though.

His eyes had found hers almost immediately when he took his place before the rows of journalists, all chomping at the bit to have the most exclusive information they could get out of him as quickly as they could get him to speak. However, he continued scanning the crowd, not missing a beat. If not for the wry, surprised smile that'd broken into his front of relaxed professionalism, she'd have almost thought he didn't see her.

But that was all more than twenty questions ago, before he'd fallen into the swing of his public persona, before she'd all but disregarded their prior connection; when her focus was on typing at over 80 words per minute, desperate not to miss a single detail, she couldn't spare a moment to reminisce on having been pinned to his wall the night prior, couldn't think about the bruises littered across her thighs.

She was fully immersed in fact-checking his last response about drone strikes in Afghanistan, because there was no way those empirics were correct; she'd definitely read somewhere that--

"Secretary Jefferson, I'm sure you're aware by now of the series of articles covering your campaign attributed to a Y/N L/N."

Her fingers froze. A small, entertained smile graced her lips, and her head slowly rose from her laptop to find Thomas with his lips pursed, his gaze trained on the reporter still speaking. She could tell by the tension in his shoulders that it was all he could do to control his expression.

"It's been on my radar," he answered mildly, and the reporter continued.

"Considering how prominent they've become in the public eye, what do you think of the writing?" A beat passed; Y/N folded her arms, sat back in her chair, rather enjoying watching the scene before her play out. "Ms. L/N has covered everything from the day you announced that you'd decided to run, but you've never addressed any of the conclusions she draws. Is it simply because she's correct? Or would you like to respond to any of her judgments?"

Thomas looked conflicted where he stood at the front of the room. His gaze flickered over to Y/N, for only a fleeting moment, and she raised an eyebrow. When he looked back at the other reporter, his jaw was tense, tongue in cheek, but she could still see the mischievous glint to his gaze.

"Well, I'll try to keep this brief, since there's too much writin' there to cover in the next couple of minutes," he said, and his controlled expression was gradually easing into entertainment. "I can't tell you she's been makin' up any of the info about my time as the Secretary of State. That's all public knowledge, no matter how much fun Ms. L/N's been having paintin' me as some kinda covert international miscreant."

Again, she caught his stare, now wearing a deep-set scowl, and the amusement in his words was gradually pushing toward the surface. "Of course there are some things I've done that I regret, but I think my time as... what'd she call me, an 'agent of antagonism?'"

"I believe her words were an 'envoy of enmity.'"

"That's the one." He was grinning outright, by then, though her gaze was deadpanned when it met his. His enjoyment of the situation was clear to her. "Anyway, I think havin' made the mistakes I did earlier on in my career's taught me how to avoid 'em in the future, and my field experience has positioned me well for understandin' the role the president's gotta take on in such a turbulent international community. That said, I have... a high level of respect for Ms. L/N."

The irony in his tone had dropped off with his final sentences. His eyes found hers, and she was wearing an easy smile. The teasing spark in his gaze hadn't faded, but it was mingled with a warmth she hadn't noticed just seconds before. That time, he didn't look back to the other reporter.

"Now, you won't catch me pretendin' she hasn't been a bit of a pain along the way--"

Y/N rolled her eyes.

"--and I can't say her Twitter's been all that flatterin' to me--" Scattered, quiet laughter came from the crowd collected in the room. Y/N's glare was present but weak; his tone was too lighthearted for any of the journalists to take his words all that seriously, and his gaze was far too playful for her to maintain any front of offense. "--but if anyone was gonna make a whole career outta writin' about me, I guess I gotta consider myself lucky it wasn't someone who came in with a misconception of me as some power-hungry corporate sellout, or anything."

He raised an eyebrow for just a moment, and though she was shaking her head, somewhere between exasperated and amused, heat rose in the back of Y/N's neck at his words. A twinge of embarrassment and regret dimmed her smile, but she knew his sentiment wasn't resentful.

"She's offered some tough feedback, but her writin' about my platform's been pretty nuanced, 'n I can appreciate a reporter who's willin' to come around to my way of thinkin' on a couple of things." His wink was short, sly, and from the disparate chuckles throughout the room, those around her seemed to think there was some joke they all believed to be in on. (All the better for Y/N, anyway. She didn't need anyone noticing Thomas Jefferson eyeing her in the middle of his own press conference -- really, that was something she'd much rather have kept for her own.)

"Hearin' what she has to say has made me reflect on a couple of things, and I think knowin' so much about one person's opinion of me made me re-evaluate some of the things I took for granted." His words were gentle, though the brazen confidence he still held himself with wouldn't have given off the impression that they might've been. Y/N's gaze was soft, and she was taken ever-so-slightly aback -- as per usual -- by his compassion.

"Dealin' with her opinions has been a bit of a ride, but I like to think I'm a better person for it. She's added a lot of value to my... campaign, and at the end of the day, I really do appreciate her havin' been around all this time." His pause after that went on just a bit too long. She didn't break his stare; the look in his eyes was absent, preoccupied if only for a second, but when she offered him a grateful smile, he was right there with her. The teasing in his demeanor had been overshadowed by a fondness that, had she not known better (much like everyone sitting to her left and right), she might've mistaken for polite cordiality, a front plastered on to mask some sort of animosity toward her published appraisal of him.

When the silence stretched on, she finally raised her eyebrows at him, nodding back toward the reporter who'd asked the question, and he seemed to have broken from a trance, giving her a smile as warm as her own before he turned back to address the room.

"Other questions?"

[oceanmando]

I’ve Loved You Since I Met You

“I- it’s just-” She pauses to take a breath. “It’s just- you know how I feel about you, Obi-Wan. I know how you feel about me. But we have our loyalties. I can’t- I won’t- I- I can’t abandon my responsibilities. I don’t want to hurt you. Or hurt myself. Not again.”

Obi-Wan and Satine get trapped in an elevator. As Obi-Wan is dying (not really, but he hurts a lot), they talk about their feelings. Happy ending I promise!! Everybody is ok in the end!!

Made as a Secret Santa gift for @ moonykryze on Twitter! Merry Christmas!

AO3 Link

The wind whips Obi-Wan’s hair as the speeder soars through the sky of Coruscant. Although it's only mid-day, the sky is already filled with traffic. He glances at the woman sitting next to him. Her blonde hair is pulled back into an ornate hairstyle and she’s wearing a blue and grey gown. Her eyes flicker to the left to look at him and Obi-Wan turns away.

Satine Kryze hasn’t even been on Coruscant for a full rotation but there had already been at least two attempts on her life. She was here to speak to the senate about something involving trade routes and peace treaties- Obi-Wan didn’t remember the specifics- and someone really didn’t want her to get her message out. Almost immediately after she had arrived someone had tried to bomb the landing platform with a speeder. Thankfully Satine had gotten far enough away that she hadn’t been hurt. Then there had been a Mandalorian sniper, possibly from Death Watch, who had shot at her on her way to the Senate Building. Coruscant security was still searching for the shooter. That time Obi-Wan had been there to pull her out of the way before she was shot. Now he was supposed to stay with her for the rest of the trip to keep her safe.

Satine had been awkwardly silent since he met her on the landing platform. Obi-Wan had hoped that they could at least catch up, but she had barely said a single word to him. He had escorted her to and from her various meetings for hours but she hadn’t even tried to start up a conversation.

Obi-Wan sees their destination not far ahead. It was some luxurious, high-security hotel that he didn’t remember the name of. Obi-Wan has to shield his eyes from the blinding light that reflects off the crystal windows. Only a minute later, the speeder pulls up to the door. They land and Obi-Wan steps out of the speeder. He turns, takes Satine’s hand, and helps her out as well.

“Thank you,” she says quietly. She pulls her hand away and reaches to grab her bag from under her seat.

“Will that be all, Duchess?” their driver asks.

“Yes, you are dismissed.”

The two walked into the hotel. Inside, the marble floor was inlaid with glittering jewels. Dignitaries, wealthy business owners, and droids buzzed around the lobby. Although he thought it was excessive, Obi-Wan had gotten used to the flashy and lavish lifestyle of the Coruscant Elite by now.

“Your room is on level three,” he says. She acknowledges him with a curt nod but says nothing. “We should take the lift. It’s the fastest way up.”

Obi-Wan presses the button next to the closest lift and waits. Satine is simply looking at the wall with a blank expression. He really wants to say something, to break the awkward silence between them, but he holds his tongue.

After a wait that’s far too long, the lift finally arrives, and the doors open with a ding. The lift isn’t surrounded by glass like many of the other ones in fancy Coruscant buildings and it almost feels claustrophobic. They step in and the doors close.

“Thank you for escorting me,” Satine says crisply. It feels so unlike her. Obi-Wan is used to hearing the compassion and empathy in her voice. The Satine he knows is passionate and joyful, but this one feels like a droid. Obi-Wan thinks that he might know why but doesn't say anything.

Before he can think of a reply, there's a sudden jolt in his gut. He’s immediately consumed by unexplainable fear and horror. He throws himself on Satine and they fall to the floor, and he covers her body under his. She looks up at him with a confused look. As he opens his mouth to explain, he’s interrupted by a terrible noise that sounds like metal being torn apart. Then he’s hit with a wave of heat and pain and everything goes black.

-

“Obi? Obi-Wan, please wake up.” Obi-Wan tries to move, tries to open his eyes, but his body doesn’t respond. His body is on fire. He hears a desperate voice- Satine he thinks- but it’s too muffled to make out. He fades in and out of consciousness for what feels like days, although it could easily have been only a few minutes- before he’s lucid enough to open his eyes. Everything is a blur but he sees a faint blue light and that someone is looking at his face.

“Obi-Wan please wake up.” Although he can’t make out her face, he knows for sure now that it’s Satine.

“Wha- what happ-ened-” Obi-Wan mumbles. His vision starts to come into focus and he can smell smoke.

“There was a bomb I think,” Satine explains quickly. “The door won’t open, I tried to use your lightsaber to cut through it but it looks like the whole lift is buried in debris and I couldn’t get anywhere.”

Obi-Wan realizes that the light is coming from his lightsaber. He can see well enough now to realize that Satine is the one holding it.

“I thought that you didn’t like weapons,” he says. He tries to laugh but he ends up coughing violently instead. He can taste blood. That’s not good.

“Obi-Wan, you’re coughing up blood,” she realizes with horror. “Do you- what do we-”

“Unless you have a medkit and some stims then there isn’t much we can do except wait for rescue.” He hisses in pain. “Can you help me up?”

Satine turns off the lightsaber, plunging them into darkness. Then she gently helps him sit up. He tries to stand, but he realizes almost immediately that his legs won’t hold him and he finds himself slouching against the wall instead. Satine turns the lightsaber back on and they’re bathed in blue light.

“Well, how do I look?” He looks at Satine with a smirk. Satine actually chuckles as she settles down beside him.

“I haven’t seen you look this bad since Draboon,” she admits.

“Well you don’t look very good either,” he replies. “but still beautiful as always.” He tries to laugh but it turns into coughs again. She gives him a concerned look.

“Please don’t do that,” she asks with a sad smile. “It’s hard to laugh at your terrible jokes when you’re dying.”

He stops himself before he can laugh again and gives her a smirk instead. “Alright, I’ll try my best.”

They sit silently for a while. The only noise is the pulsing hum of his lightsaber and their own breathing, and it’s almost calming. Then he finally breaks the silence.

“You… you were different, earlier.”

“Hm?” She turned to look at him. “Oh, well- it’s nothing. Not worth worrying about.”

“I can tell that you’re lying, Satine.”

“I- it’s just-” She pauses to take a breath. “It’s just- you know how I feel about you, Obi-Wan. I know how you feel about me. But we have our loyalties. I can’t- I won’t- I- I can’t abandon my responsibilities. I don’t want to hurt you. Or hurt myself. Not again.”

Obi-Wan is already in pain. It feels like every bone in his body is broken, and his lungs are burning. But this… this hurts more than anything else right now.

“I know,” he says. His voice is so quiet that it’s almost a whisper.

“But… I love you, Obi-Wan. I think of you every day. I try not to, but- I do. I’ve loved you since I met you. But I can’t do this to you.”

“Oh Satine…”

She sniffles quietly. Obi-Wan realizes that she’s crying. He tries to move his hand to rest it on her shoulder, but his arm only flops in response. She gives him a sympathetic look in response. And then, to his surprise, she leans over and rests her head lightly against his shoulder. Despite the horrible pain everywhere else in his body, all he can think about is the warmth of her body so close to his.

“I’m so sorry, Obi. I- every now and then, I think about it being different. Or how it could have been different. What it would’ve been like if you hadn’t been a Jedi or if I hadn’t been a leader or…” Her voice trails off. “But it can’t be different. They’re all just hopeless fantasies.”

“Satine, I love you. I wish things had been different too. I think about it sometimes- leaving the Jedi Order- but we have our duties. We can’t leave them. It’s… so hard, being separated from you, feeling these feelings… I wish that we could change things, but we can’t. Not now.” He’s crying too. His throat burns from talking, but his heart hurts more.

“I know,” she breathes.

They don’t say anything else. They just sit in the collapsed lift, leaning against each other, wishing that things could be different. Obi-Wan doesn’t know how long they’ve been sitting there when finally they hear a faint sound.

“What is it?” Obi-Wan asks as Satine stands.

“I don’t know- I think-” Satine jumps back as they hear the sound of metal groaning. Obi-Wan thinks that maybe there’s been another explosion before he hears distant voices.

“We’re in here!” Satine shouts, banging against the door to the lift. “We’re alive! We’re in the lift!” Obi-Wan tries to stand up to help her but falls again. All of the pain comes back to him and he grunts in pain. Satine rushes to his side.

“Stay down, please,” she says. Obi-Wan, in too much pain to speak, nods. And then, he hears the familiar voice of a clone.

“Get away from the door!” they yell. Satine turns off the lightsaber and helps him to move as far away from it as possible. He hears a hiss and an explosion. There's a bright light, and for a second he can’t see. When the light fades away he sees the iconic red and white armor of the Coruscant Guard.

“Sir!” A clone rushes to his side. “Someone get a medic!”

Relief floods his body. He’s safe. Satine’s safe. They’re going to be alright.

A medic rushes in and begins to look him over. He feels a painful jab in his arm and realizes that he’s been given an injection.

“Sir, we’re going to have to sedate you until you get to the hospital.” Obi-Wan nods again, and only a few moments later the clone jabs him again. As he feels himself slowly falling asleep, he looks at Satine. Although she’s still crying, she’s smiling. And then he falls asleep.

-

Obi-Wan wasn’t exactly sure when he regained consciousness. He felt like he’d been hit by a speeder. His body ached and his joints felt stiff. When he finally draws up the strength to open his eyes, he realizes that he’s in a hospital bed. He blinks, trying to clear the fuzziness from his vision, and notices two familiar faces watching him.

“Master Kenobi!” Ahsoka jumps up from a chair and- very gently- hugs him. Anakin is close behind her, watching his former master with a look of relief.

“How long was I out?” Obi-Wan asks quietly. His throat is sore and it hurts to talk.

“Three days,” Anakin answers. “They were worried that you wouldn’t make it.”

“Well, I knew that you would! It’s going to take a lot more than that to knock you down,” Ahsoka interjects, her face beaming with a smile.

“Bounty hunters bombed the hotel. You were trapped down there for several hours. They were surprised that you and Satine survived.”

At the mention of her name, all of the memories from the last few days came back to him. Satine.

“Where is Satine? Is she alright?” Obi-Wan tries to sit up but a sudden pain in his abdomen keeps him down. Anakin puts a hand on his shoulder.

“Duchess Satine is fine,” Anakin reassures him. Then Obi-Wan notices that he and Ahsoka exchange a knowing look.

“What are you two so happy about?” Obi-Wan raises an eyebrow. Well, he tries to raise an eyebrow, but the pain in his face makes it look more like a confused look than a suspicious one.

“She’s been sitting next to your bed almost the entire time,” Ahsoka explains with a smirk. “She’s been here for over three days.”

Obi-Wan feels his face grow hot with embarrassment. Now he understands why they’re so smug.

“She really didn’t want to leave. The med bot almost had to sedate her to get her to rest,” Anakin adds, a glint in his eye. “She was talking to you the whole time too.”

“Anakin, Ahsoka, I don’t know what you’re trying to infer about me and Satine-”

Obi-Wan turns his head as the door to his room opens. As if on cue, Satine walks in. Her face brightens when she sees him.

“Obi!” She rushes towards him, and Anakin and Ahsoka move out of the way to let her stand next to him. “Oh I’m so glad that you’re awake, I was so worried…”

Obi-Wan notices how exhausted she looks. There are bags under her eyes and she is paler than normal. Her eyes are puffy and red as if she’s been crying for days. Obi-Wan figures that she has.

“Obi is fine,” Anakin states smugly. Obi-Wan casts him a glare.

“We’ll let you guys have some… alone time,” Ahsoka says in between stifled laughs. Anakin winks at him, and the two leave the room. The door closes with a hiss.

Satine sits down in the chair next to his bed. She puts her hand on his but her eyes trail to the floor. For what feels like an eternity, the two are silent.

“Thank you… for saving my life.” Obi-Wan looks at her but she doesn’t stop staring at the floor.

“It isn’t the first time I’ve saved your life,” she replies with a laugh. Obi-Wan doesn’t immediately answer her and the two resume their silence.

“Satine, about what we said-”

“Obi-Wan. I- it’s- ok.”

She finally turns to look at him. Her hands go up to his face and their eyes meet. There’s a joy in hers that he hasn’t seen in years. Then, suddenly, their lips connect.

For a sweet, blissful moment everything is fine. There’s no responsibilities, no war, no Sith, no Jedi- just the two of them alone in a hospital room without a care in the galaxy. Obi-Wan knows that the moment won’t last, but for now he simply lets himself get lost in their kiss.

[savannahsdrabbles]

Ocean Song - Part 10/11

Rating: PG

notes: 2.9k words. A03 link can be found here. I can’t believe I’m almost done with this fic! <3 Big thanks again to my beta-readers, @starfiretheninja and @rusty-wayfarer. 

ALSO! I posted character references of the boys here, and @bakedbananners over on Twitter drew them! <33 I may or may not have cried. <3 OK! Now on with the fic! :D

***

“Ay-puh-ril, nicetumeetchu Dawn-ee, Cay-see. I Don-ee, Cay-see, Ahpril nicetumeetchu,” the turtle hummed softly under his breath, still rolling the words over and over in his mouth. He squinted, brown eyes straining to focus in the dim light as he used a claw to trace abstract patterns in the dirt. It had been at least thirty minutes since Casey’s departure, and with their main light source being the soft glow from April’s phone, the two unlikely comrades had settled into a quiet reverie beneath the pine trees. “Don Dun Dunntello Don Dondon Dawn-ee… April?”

“Yes, Donnie?” April glanced down at her phone for what felt like the hundredth time, her teeth working impatiently on her already cracked and sore lower lip. When the screen only blinked back a warning of low battery, she tucked the device into her pocket and drew her knees to her chest. It was getting chilly out – hopefully Casey was doing okay without his hoodie.

“Cay-see go?”

“Mh-hm. Remember? Casey went to rent a boat, and then you’re going to guide us so that we can take you home.” She cast her eyes sideways, watching as Donnie furrowed his brow and bobbed his head to show he was listening. “Right now we’re just waiting until he texts and says that the boat is ready.”

“Tehks?”

“Yup,” April tapped the phone-shaped outlined in her pocket, then bit her lip and mumbled a silent prayer that he didn’t ask for a further explanation of technology and digital communication – she’d had a difficult enough time explaining that to her grandparents. “Until then, we’ve just got to wait here.”

The turtle tilted his head and squinted at her pocket for a long moment, his expression clearly saying that he had more questions, but finally nodded and turned back to his doodles. “Bōto o matsu.”

April blinked.

Bōto o… wait for boat? Okay, so not only had he understood, but he understood enough to respond in another language. Cool, cool, okay.

She brought a hand to the bridge of her nose and squeezed, trying to ignore the migraine that had been building behind her eyes over the past few hours. How in the …? She knew he’d used a few Japanese phrases when they had first spoken in the lab, and logically she knew that living in Japan that would be the language he was most exposed to – but in the same vein, none of this made any logical sense. What kind of person could imagine a multilingual, anthropomorphic mutant turtle, accept that as fact, and then continue about their day?

Before her brain could wander any farther down that trail of thought– what next? Aliens? Superheroes? - April felt her phone buzz and heaved a grateful sigh of relief. “That should be Casey – time to get moving!”

The turtle perked up, his head swiveling like a periscope to search the surrounding shadows. “Where-?”

His question was cut off as April surged to her feet, her hands carefully grasping and guiding him upwards alongside her. The turtle yelped in surprise and grabbed for handfuls of her top once upright, wobbling slightly as he tried to balance himself.  

“Here – Casey’s hoodie is going to help keep you covered, okay?” April reached down to grab the jacket from the ground, bundled it up in her hands and then gestured for the turtle to raise his arms. He did so reluctantly, then yelped once more as she quickly pulled the material over his head and began to guide his arms through the fabric. “There likely won’t be too many people out at the marina on a school night, but we want to make sure we don’t draw any extra attention – plus there’s plenty of security cameras out there and it’ll be impossible to completely avoid those.”

“Mmmf!” Was Donnie’s only response, his arms starting to pinwheel frantically before April caught hold of them. A stretch of the hoodie’s neckline had gotten caught on the turtle’s snout, partially obscuring his eyes and totally covering his mouth. April adjusted the fabric with a chuckle, freeing the creature from his polyester prison, and then took a step back to examine her work.

Even compared to her relatively average five and a half feet, Donatello was short – if she had to guess, he probably wasn’t any taller than four foot ten. Considering that the hoodie he now wore was made to fit Casey’s nearly six foot self, it was hard not to see the turtle as a toddler playing dress up in his parents’ clothing. The way that the fabric hung and draped over his body made him look even smaller, if that were possible; should he sit down, he might get lost amongst the apparel. Were it not for the glinting metal collar around his neck and the look of growing discomfort on his face, April would have thought he looked ready to curl up in bed.

“Hmmm,” Donnie hummed pensively, clearly not feeling the comfort that April was perceiving. The turtle gave his fabric-obscured hands a hard shake, eyes wide and increasingly nervous noises emanating from his mouth as he rapidly rotated his limbs in search of his missing appendages.

April giggled and started to step forward to help him roll up the sleeves, but then held back when a quiet voice in her mind chided. Let’s see if he can figure this out.

Donnie glanced up with a piteous whine, looking as if he had her thoughts and realized she wasn’t coming to his rescue, then hesitated. April could almost see the cogs turning in his brain as he stared at her rolled sleeves and free hands, then turned back to his own predicament. After a brief moment of thought and one more comparative look, the turtle raised an arm to his mouth and bit down on the sleeve, then gently tugged until his hand slowly slipped free.

“Hoo-dee!” he chirped triumphantly, holding up his free hand and waving it in delight.

“Right, you’re wearing a hoodie!” April grinned, then reached around the turtle to guide the hood over the back of his head. He didn’t seem to mind now, attention already turning back to the process of freeing his second hand. “We’d better keep the hood up for now, but look at us! Just two normal teens on the beach!”

The turtle’s eyes lit up at her last word. He dropped his sleeve in surprise, then turned to point a claw in the direction Casey had disappeared. “Beach!”

“Yup! Now let’s get you home!”

***

Donnie’s heart pounded as he stumbled along behind April, her warm hand holding him steady as the ground beneath them slowly transitioned from poky greens to the tan, shifting sands he knew so well. He’d been able to hear the ocean for a while now, but the moment they pushed through the last bushes and stepped out onto the beach - suddenly everything felt real. The cool, moist air, the promise of water and food and Home and his family – he was so close!

With every step towards the illuminated Human structures in the distance, he felt the urge building in his system – the desire to break loose from April’s gentle guidance and take off running towards the ocean. A familiar tugging sensation pulled incessantly at the back of his mind, calling out in the voices of Father and his brothers.

“This way, Clever, this way! Almost there! Almost Home!”

Their voices were like a siren’s song, beckoning him closer and closer with promises of healing and reassurances that he would soon be safe in their arms.

A breathless half-sob caught in his throat, and he swallowed thickly before trilling in response, his voice echoing out across the beach. “Wait for me; I’m coming! I’ll be Home soon!”

No sooner had the call left his mouth when April shook his hand gently, calling his attention back to the situation before them. He sighed and slowly drug his eyes away from the shore. As much as he wanted to release April’s hand and take off running… something told him that he needed to wait and stay with the two Humans. They had gotten him this far, and if the danger was imminent enough that he and Brothers were going to have to relocate…

“It looks like there’s a few people out on the marina, but I think we’re good,” April spoke in a low voice as she gestured towards the fast-approaching structures with her free hand. Two rows of buildings stood tall amongst the rolling dunes, serving as a departure from the otherwise untouched beach. Sand made way for a long wooden platform that served as the buildings’ foundations and stretched almost a mile out into the ocean. “My dad brought me down to the pier a few times when we first moved to Osaka - it’s pretty fun during the daytime. There’s a few shops and restaurants out on the board walk, and during the summer they host a carnival.”

Donnie nodded absently, his focus already drifting back out across the ocean. “Casey?”

“We’re almost to him. His text said that he was under the –”

A long, shrill whistle suddenly cut through the air, followed by a loud ‘YO!’ that snapped Donnie back to attention. He startled slightly, the sharp movement shaking the hood from his head and sending it sliding down his shoulders.

April heaved a sigh.

“And that would be the Master of Subtlety himself.” Even without looking, Donnie could imagine the way that the girl’s eyes were rolling and her shoulders slouching. He’d seen that exasperated look – and worn it – whenever his brothers did something foolish. With a sigh and a tug on his hand, April headed towards a shadow-y area tucked under the edge of the pier. “Come on.”

The turtle nodded obediently, his pace quickening and heart fluttering they moved closer towards the shoreline.

***

“You know, the point of texting was supposed to be that we kept quiet,” April called out as they approached the pier. She squinted, searching the shadows until they slowly began to give way to separate, more distinct shapes. “You could have at least waited until we got closer before you let the whole beach know where you were.”

“I wanted to make sure that you guys found me,” Casey replied, his voice already sounding smug– clearly a sign that he was up to something. There was a soft grunt as he pushed against one of the pier’s support beams, and then he and the boat slid out of the shadows.

April opened her mouth, hesitated, and then closed her eyes. The headache from earlier was returning. “Casey – what in the world is that?”

“Oh, you mean this beauty?” the teenage boy patted the side of the boat, an impish grin on his face, and then threw out his arms as the tiny, rust-ridden vehicle slowly began to tip towards the right. He flailed wildly for a moment, water splashing as the boat continued to rock from side to side, then finally froze with arms outstretched in a T-pose. “Er – she’ll be much more steady once you guys get in and help distribute the weight.”

“Mh-hm.” April cocked an eyebrow. “I can deal with unsteady; I’m more concerned about getting tetanus, or that thing sinking the second I put one foot in.”

“Yeah, well apparently it’s pretty expensive to rent a nice boat to go ‘somewhere in the ocean’ and come back ‘at some point’,” Casey stuck his tongue out, but kept his arms outstretched. “The shop owner guy looked like he wanted to kick me out more than anything, but I managed to make a deal with him. Apparently they were planning to send this boat to the scrap yard tomorrow morning, so the Jonesman – that’s me - offered to take it off of their hands and save them a trip.” Casey moved to fold his arms across his chest, but then threw them out once more as the boat rolled beneath him. “I was – oh boy, one sec – thinking of naming it the O’Neilmobile, but with that attitude I just might have to reconsider.”

“How will I ever deal with such a loss?”

“I guess Jonesmobile: The Squeakquel will have to do.”

“Casey.”

“It’s Captain Casey now.”

“I’m not calling you that– do you think that thing will stay afloat with all of us? Maybe we should rethink our plans –”

Suddenly and without warning, Donatello dropped April’s hand and surged forward.

“Don-?”

The turtle stumbled heavily as he cleared last few feet of sand, clearly too frantic to think out his steps, but the moment his claws touched foam something seemed to click inside.

“Water – look! Water-water-home!” Breathless words and excited sounds spilled from his lips like a pot bubbling over, coming quick and fast and soon dissolving into a symphony of hums and noises that April could only think to call laughter. He tipped his head back, eyes closed and body shaking with the sounds as he kicked and frolicked through the surf, sending salt water splashing in every direction. “Beach-water-Family-water-water-Home!”

April cast a nervous glance over her shoulder, half afraid that his mirth would attract unwanted attention, but Casey waved the thought off.

“Just… give him a minute,” he smiled, eyes following the turtle as he danced amongst the waves. “I think he needs this.”

April hesitated, but she couldn’t help the smile growing on her face, nor the relieved laugh she gave as Donnie turned towards to them. He grinned widely, eyes shimmering, and then flopped backwards into the water.

“Look! Look water!” His chest heaved as he laughed breathlessly. “Water!”

“I’m happy for you, Bud,” Casey said, nudging the edge of the pier once more so that the boat drifted closer. “We’re so close to getting you home.”

The turtle nodded and laughed again, then pushed himself up into a sitting position. Rivulets of water ran down either side of his face, congregating under his chin and then dripping down to the already soaked hoodie that now hung heavily from his shoulders. He gave a slight shake of his head, sending droplets skittering across the water’s surface, and then lifted a hand to pat his chest. “Donnie.”

Casey cocked his head, eyes sliding to April. “Donnie?”

“It’s short for Donatello,” she smiled and held out her hand towards the turtle. He stood and took it gratefully, eyes gleaming with renewed energy and more life than ever before. With a little tug, she drew him alongside her and stepped closer to the boat. “He needed a special name.”

“Kind of a hard name for someone just learning English,” Casey leaned down to grab a few items from the bottom of the boat and then shifted backwards to give them more room. “I was thinking something more along the lines of ‘Bill’ or ‘Casey Junior’.”

“Pfft - as if,” April held the edge of the boat steady as Donnie scrambled over the side, then plopped himself by Casey’s feet. When the boat didn’t immediately capsize under the weight of a second passenger, she pulled herself in and settled on the bench seat opposite Casey. Now that she was actually in the boat, tucked beside the two guys she was on this adventure with… it suddenly didn’t seem so cruddy. No, this boat was just right for what they needed. “Hey – did you get life vests?”

Casey turned to face the motor and straddled his seat, the movement causing the boat to rock dangerously. “Naw, we’ll be in the boat the whole time, so it shouldn’t be a big deal. Plus you and Donnie can swim.”

“Wait – can you not?”

“And off we go!”

The engine took a moment to roll over as Casey tugged on the pull cord, but eventually started with a loud roar that sent Donnie scrambling for safety against April’s legs. She reached down and gave his hand a reassuring squeeze, and then they were off! The little boat began to power forward at a steady speed – not as fast as she would have liked, but enough so that April’s hair began to tangle around her face. She squeezed her eyes shut, spitting a strand out of her mouth and suddenly wishing that she’d brought a hair tie.

“Here – take this!” Casey called over the sound of the engine. April opened one eye, then grinned when she saw what Casey offering. “Coach said I’m only allowed to keep my hair long if I pull it back during practice, so I always have extra rubber bands on hand!”

“Thanks!” April took the present gratefully and quickly pulled her hair back into a tight bun. Now that that problem was solved… “By the way – did you end up grabbing food like you mentioned?”

The boy’s eyes lit up, and he bent down to grab the objects he’d moved to make room for Donnie. “Oh, yeah! I hit up the McDonald’s on the board walk right before I went to the boat place. I asked the cashier what she suggested for my ‘pet turtle’ and she said suggested a head of lettuce. They were out of that at the moment though, so…” He passed a brown paper sack to April, and then extended a small box to the turtle. “Donnie, can you say ‘chicken nuggets?’”

“Chih nuddets.”

[taekooktimeline]

1/2 I’m so glad you’re answering asks again! I really value your opinion when it comes to taekook. I’ve noticed many of the recent asks seem a little skeptical, which I don’t understand. I just keep thinking back to the 2020 Grammys. It wasn’t an accident that they wore matching outfits to such a huge event, posed as a couple on the red carpet when the other members started to move ahead, wore rings on their left hands, etc. Is it just me or was this a really big deal?

Kayla: well said anon and I totally agree 😭honestly by the end of the week after episode 6 of IST released, I was so drained and angry at how people were reacting. I don’t know why people fixated on it over all the other events leading up to that, other than I truly feel people actively seek negativity when it comes to TK. So many people, even after I break down my stance on BV4, tattoo girl and 2019 overall, still refuse to see how TK acted around all of that. I don’t mind if people disagree but how do you see all the events surrounding that month break, and clearly see no underlying tension or drama, yet find an issue? I don’t get it.

Part of me thinks there’s a few issues here, one of which is some people have short term memory in this fandom. Grammys 2020 was AMAZING and I’m with you - it was bold, loud and a statement. Jk broke the lineup to stand by Tae. They wore rings on their left ring finger while wearing similar matching outfits. They were affectionate to the point non listeners asked if they were dating. That said everything about who Tae and Jk are to each other. It was, in my mind, very intentional of them, at a very large scale, international event which they knew a lot of people would view. But that was January and IST came in Sept so people focus on that. They take it as “real time” and forget what came before. Time moves forward, but they tend to void out sweet moments for the content that is out “today”.

It also doesn’t help that this show was marketed as a relaxed vacation for BTS, a natural setting. People took this conversation at face value without factoring this is a closeted couple who were - generally but not always - restricted in official content leading up to this and the new contracts taking effect. And some didn’t bother questioning how odd it was this deep talk took place on camera, nor the fact we didn’t learn anything new. In reality, this moment was sweet. Tae was clearly nervous but excited. Jimin, their loving, best friend, played along with Tae in acting a skit to get Jk to the tent. They had a very sweet talk with Jk reminiscing about old times. Unfortunately I’ve noticed people have a tendency to focus on the bad and think it defines an entire relationship. They took the negative subtext, which Jk didn’t say, and took his comment “a SIDE” became awkward and ran with it. They didn’t use critical thinking to really consider setting - a public televised moment - or the fact this is a closeted couple, or that Tae had hard times that probably did impact his moods and how those around him reacted.

As for the “focusing on” I think this is something that is always going to be prevalent with taekook until they say something concrete because every single time Jungkook and Tae do something there are a million people standing behind them with all these excuses of “oh tae does this with everyone” “jungkook hates tae” “tae doesn’t like jungkook” “jungkook touches/stares at everyone too” “you’re making them uncomfortable” etc. I think people just want to focus on the negative because they either can’t or choose not believe at the very basic nature of this entire pairing that Tae and Jungkook are friends (for whatever reason, and I’m not talking about the people who don’t like ‘shipping’ but are fine with others doing what they want, I’m talking about those who actively attack people who are peacefully just reposting moments or enjoying themselves on a FREE platform and not spreading any actual malice). Honestly, in my opinion this is no longer even a couple thing, people can’t stand the idea of Tae and Jungkook even being friends. When that rumour came out that Tae and Jungkook went shopping, not only did someone feel the urge to create a false rumour to show how quickly ‘taekookers believe lies’ but also there were like 10001 people coming into the comments to discredit this woman... I mean for what? Are the members not allowed to go shopping with each other anymore? I fail to see the big deal with this.

At the heart of this matter is that people in this fandom are okay with all the members just being FRIENDS but not taekook. Regardless of whether they see romantic connotations in their actions, people can’t seem to even fathom the possibility that two individuals that have been in a group for 7 years, who became friends during debut and were considered the closest—would even be friends today. That’s actually what’s the saddest and most transparent issue within this fandom. Now people can say what they like but I’ve seen tons of experiments and things that have shown this issue to be fairly black and white. As for the SOOP conversation from episode 6, i think Jk made it pretty clear at the GDA 2021 what he meant—I saw that as a clear statement to how he sees Tae and what Tae means to him—I saw people who were dissecting his words and pulling up naver dictionary which is a whole other issue but the fact of the matter is they directly engaged with that episode “Taehyung hyung and I have been friends since debut, we were very close” “what are we not close anymore” *laughs* “no that’s not what i meant, since then you’ve become even more reliable and dependable, so keep working hard and stay healthy lets do something together soon with everyone when it's safer” [I can’t remember if he said everyone, e.g. 여러분 or a variation, I’d have to rewatch it]. Taehyung point blank asked him “what? are we not close anymore?” and Jk said no and reaffirmed they have always been close, despite what people tried to say after Ep 6.

I just find it interesting how everyone was so quick to take Jk for his word and tell us to “stop twisting his words” during that entire SOOP ordeal, yet when Jungkook makes a statement like this at the GDA people are so fast to start going “oh he said gentleman, that means they don’t really like each other and he’s being nice” “did he hesitate? I feel like he hesitated?” “Jungkook looks like he doesn’t want to be there” “taehyung didn’t even pay attention to his message, he asked him about his hair”.

I think that really says it all about how people treat taekook.

I also want to make a point on where some of the hate derives from. My personal opinion is that the hate or friend narrative is largely driven by Bh. They were the ones who separated them starting in 2017 , which gave fans all the freedom to fill in the blanks as to what happened. Being two of the most popular members of the biggest band in the world, this allowed fans who largely ignore ships to see them as rivals even. In official content, there was never any chance that Bh let them think differently. Don’t even get me started on BH because after episode 6 I really stepped back and evaluated how much BH supports. And I’m really confused by the company right now.

I hope I’ve answered this thoroughly and my apologies it’s so long! Ultimately I think there’s a lot of factors at play: BH separating TK in official content a lot of times in the old contract let people create stories; a lot in this fandom seems to actively look for drama or negativity with TK; people take official content as real time events; they don’t factor in IST being televised, how we didn’t learn anything substantive or new, and twisted words to suit a story; short term memory (Grammys was Jan, IST was Sept).

Finally, thanks for being patient with asks. That’s so sweet to read you’re happy I’m answering them again🥰 There's close to 110 in the inbox 😭I’m going to try my best to answer a couple a week at the least. But the inbox does get me anxious, and it can be draining with the negative asks. Between work, my personal life and the timeline itself, which take priority, I’ll do my best but I appreciate the understanding it takes time to get to questions, and it doesn’t help I’m very nervous people can misconstrue what I say, so I take a while to draft thoughts.

Sara’s General Disclaimer: I may select some asks, think about them and answer in the future through either Tumblr, Twitter or YouTube. Kayla will take over the discussion section as she enjoys active debates and will make the time for it, but I still read them all. Be nice to each other 💜 As it’s natural, I may or may not differ with Kayla’s take/ words.

[retronator]

The last 10 years of pixel art

Retronator the blog is exactly 10 years old right now (+ an hour or so more since I can’t seem to stop editing this post)!

I want to take this opportunity to look back at the teenage years of the 21st century and reflect on how the pixel art scene has grown over the years. I only promise a personal perspective, pieced together from my faulty memory and a bit more reliable archive of 1,700 posts on this blog.

2010

Social media sites emerged already in the late 2000s (Facebook launched in 2004, Twitter in 2006, Tumblr in 2007), but it took quite some time before they caught on, especially outside the US. I joined Tumblr in July 2010 and there were relatively few pixel artists active on the site. @jinndevil​ and @unomoralez​ go the farthest of those that I followed. The first post I reblogged was a Back to the Future piece from @megapont​ (via some blogpost share, since Megapont duo didn't join till 2013).

What was huge on the network however was sharing retro-gaming artworks by blogs like @it8bit​ and @gameandgraphics​. This included many pixel art pieces and it helped grow a community of fans that adored both old games and pixels.

2011

I'd put 2011 down as the start of the hi-bit era of pixel art games, championed by the release of the iconic adventure game Sword & Sworcery. Pixel purism of the initial pixel art movement was left behind by mixing pixels with high-res special effects like soft shadows and vignetting. Also, spaghetti legs started their fad period.

Artists such as @probertson​, @drewpixel​, and @merrigo​ started their days on Tumblr, gathering huge audiences over the years. Meanwhile, Retronator grew to a whooping 100 followers by the end of the year.

2012

Tumblr's fan spirits were going stronger and stronger, to which I threw my own logs on the fire by releasing Tribute, my biggest and most popular piece of fan art I created so far.

The highly anticipated FEZ got released (to critical acclaim and other more controversial consequences), further bringing pixel art in front of the mainstream gaming audience.

From newly-followed artists, @johanvinet​ was damn inspiring with his smooth animations. Anything GIF did immensely good on the Tumblr dashboard.

2013

This was THE year for Tumblr. So many new artists joined, it was hard to keep track. Anyone from established names like Mojang's art director @jnkboy​ and @konjakonjak​ of Noitu Love 2 fame (later Iconoclasts) to pixel art beginners such as @waneella​, now one of the most well-known illustrators in the scene.

The push for modern art direction with pixel art games wasn't stopping either. Not that amazing, more traditionally styled titles (with fresh color palettes) weren't present, as Chasm's debut on Kickstarter showed, but it was Hyper Light Drifter that really stole everyone's heart (machine) on the same crowdfunding platform. Gradients and smooth dynamic shading became unapologetically part of the pixel art (gaming) vocabulary from then on.

When Papers, Please got released at the end of the year to universal appraisal, a new example was set for showing that pixel visuals don't necessarily need to be the most polished, technically-impressive pieces of artistic expression, they can also be simple—the majority of detail-filling can be offloaded to the player's imagination.

2014

Pixel purist ideology was a highly debated topic. Dan Fessler, the background artist on Chasm, did a strong push against the tighter set of constraints which said you should only use 'clean' tools such as the pencil and color fill to complete your artworks. Dan instead only cared about clean results, pioneering in the process the technique of HD Index Painting that used the depths of Photoshop layer magic to get otherwise identical results. And there were plenty of others right around the corner that wouldn't even care about keeping the results married to traditional pixel art ideals.

Still, the majority of pixel art at this point was very orthodox. I started the Artist Feature series that showcased my favorite artists and none of them did anything controversial (nor they needed to). The biggest break from the old days was mainly highly increased color counts that allowed for subtle transitions without dithering, and free color picking without creating predefined color palettes. Octavi Navarro started his highly iconic @pixelshuh​ scenes, and the completely unknown @8pxl​ started her journey towards experimentation with pink sky gradients.

Even more importantly, Pixel Dailies were born on Twitter, following Ben Porter's 365 days of doing pixel art daily.

2015

I called 2015 The Year of Pixel Dailies in the end-of-the-year article in my newly started Retronator Magazine. The Twitter community really exploded this year, bringing in many new artists to the medium, with Pixel Dailies serving as a platform to raise visibility to everyone, old and new. I found out about @weilarddrake​ and @orange-magik​ this way, Slynyrd, @iceztiqarts​, @igorsandman​ … Other freshly-discovered people on tumblr were @kirokazepixel​ (one of the most prolific artists on the scene), @faxdoc​ (his learning journey was inspiring enough for its own article), and Talecrafter with @deathtrashgame​ (starting a whole new style of aliased, low-res painting without caring about individual pixels).

The discussion whether pixel art could survive past its nostalgic roots was still in the air, stirred by opinions such as A Pixel Artist Renounces Pixel Art. History is proving them wrong however, with pixel art stronger than ever in 2020. It's not a visual language people born after the 80s couldn't understand.

New-school voxel art pieces started trending with the advent of Magicavoxel, pioneering the development of pixel art's sibling in 3D. The first pixel art convention Pixel Art Park was held in Tokyo. And (important for me personally), I came up with Pixel Art Academy, an adventure game that would take my ambitions in pixel art education into the future.

2016

After 9 years in development, Owlboy released! Also Hyper Light Drifter! And Stardew Valley! And Kingdom! Pixel art games were not dying, they were on the rise.

Edge (the popular British video game magazine) published a special 200+ page issue called Art of the Pixel. It featured contemporary artists outside the gaming context, championing the aesthetic's transition from its video game roots into its own art form.

Pedro Medeiros of @studiominiboss​ started his famous series of GIF tutorials, subsequently encouraging many others to share their knowledge in the popular square format. Tumblr still saw new artists joining the platform, such as @motocross-arts​ and @apolism​ (two thirds of the Japanese trio The Ultimate Pixel Crew), while others like @6vcr​ started their first pixel explorations that year. @brunopixels​, an old-schooler on the platform like me, sparked the Octobit movement, a pixel art alternative to Inktober.

2017

Further new names on Tumblr included @guttykreum​ (outdoorsy perspective pieces) and @scrixels​ (one of the most consistent daily posters with over 1,000 artworks by now).

The annual Shibuya Pixel Art Contest joined Pixel Art Park at promoting the art form in Tokyo, Japan (and worldwide really). Lospec became the new go-to resource site for pixel art, picking up the mantle from PixelJoint and Pixelation that—while still active—stagnated technologically and feature-wise.

More than anything, pixel art games were everywhere. Maybe it only seemed to me this way since I was able to go to the Game Developer's Conference as press and had the chance to interview many many people in the scene, leading to over half a year of daily content on this blog. Indie games felt stronger than ever with so many of us full-on realizing our dreams of creating our own games professionally. The one that left the biggest splash on the scenes was no doubt The Last Night, announced front and center in-between AAA titles during Microsoft's E3 conference. The brothers Soret pushed the art direction even beyond the hi-bit era moniker, fusing 3D, shaders, and modern cinematography with pixels in an iconic combination that, like Sword & Sworcery's spaghetti legs, was so atmospheric that it couldn't be resisted by future imitators.

2018

Another game that pushed technological boundaries was Pathway, finally stepping into full light in 2018 and releasing one year later. I still think it has the most advanced pixel art graphics engine to date, using voxels and other tricks under the hood to deliver a completely dynamically lit environment while retaining the pixel-perfect 3/4 view aesthetic. Pixel art games were firmly part of mainstream gaming by now, with Celeste winning many awards alongisde pixelish Return of the Obra Dinn, further cementing the presence of pixels as an ever-evolving medium capable of expressing very different art styles.

I decided to focus solely on developing Pixel Art Academy in 2018, putting this blog on relative hiatus with very sporadic updates towards the end of the year. But I never let it die. I thoroughly enjoy writing about the scene and my interest in the art form only grows with time.

2019–2020

Ironically, the closer the years are to the present, the less I remember what things stood out most. Maybe it's because my brain hasn't had the chance to automatically prune my memories yet from the overload of information that is the interwebs these days. Pixel art seems so out there, so much of my everyday life, encompassing me on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Reddit, DeviantArt … Even on TikTok you see kids zooming out of their freshly pixelized Minecraft photographs they call pixel art. The medium is alive, and more than ever.

As for the Retronator blog, from its zero followers exactly 10 years ago, it grew to 100 after a year and a half, 1000 the year after, 10k when it was 5 years old, and 30k just last month. Tumblr is still the platform where most of you follow my pixel art reports and I don't intend to stop anytime soon.

Here's to the next decade! Thank you all for reading. <3

[songtoyou]

Chapter Six: Don’t You Pretend

Would You Call That Love

Pairing: Chris Evans x Raina Morrison (OC)

Rating: PG to PG-13 (Might be 18+ for some chapters)

Description: There was always that one person Chris Evans tended to turn to when he was not in a committed relationship, Raina Morrison. He could confide in her about things going on in his life that he did not feel comfortable talking to his family or close friends about. Chris and Raina were able to establish a way to openly communicate with one another, but also being respectful of the other’s time and needs. It was the only constant “relationship” he had, but without all the nonsense of trying to build a life together. A “friends with benefits” situation. However, what happens when Chris starts rethinking his “relationship” with Raina and if either are willing to pursue something more?

Chapter Rating: PG

Warnings: Mentions the death of a loved one.

Word Count: 1,397

Author’s Note: It has been forever since I have updated this story. I was not sure where I wanted to take it since the I posted the last chapter. For this chapter, I wanted to explore more into Raina’s relationship with her dad and how supportive Chris is. So this chapter is basically Chris being a supportive boyfriend to his girlfriend.

Sadly, I do not know Chris Evans or anyone in his family, and this is just a fictional take on his life. I do not permit this fic to be reposted on other platforms.  

Chris and Raina did their best to keep their new relationship quiet. While his mother and siblings knew of the couple’s new relationship status, along with Raina’s father, they wanted to keep it quiet for the time being. Both wanted to enjoy the “honeymoon” stage without the prying eyes of the media and fans. 

While Chris dreaded the media intrusion, it was the fans Raina was more worried about. Flashbacks of her time with Tom were making the singer have bouts of PTSD. Raina feared that if the fans found out that she was dating Chris, they (mostly his fans, let’s be honest) would be brutal towards her, just like Tom’s fans. 

She asked Chris one night what he would do if his fans outright attacked her via social media. He was stumped at the question at first.

“Like, if you see fans sending me hate though…I don’t know, Twitter, would you respond? Would you say something? Are you comfortable with saying anything if there is hate towards me because I am now dating you?” Raina asked, worried about his answer.

“I mean, yeah, I would say something,” Chris replied, but Raina could detect the unsureness in his voice. “What?” Chris asked when he saw the look you gave him.

“You saw how some of the fans were towards Jenny. They said hateful things about her, and you didn’t do anything to defend her or your relationship. What makes me different?” Raina pushed. She wanted to get it all out—no bullshit between Chris and her.

Chris sighed. “I can fully admit that I fucked up when it came to my relationship with Jenny. I didn’t protect her like I should have when we began dating. It was the first public relationship I had been in a long while. However, that is no excuse. The difference between you and Jenny is that 1.) I love you. I love you so much. So I would never stand for anyone hating on you, and 2.) I know that once the fans see that our relationship is real and not some Hollywood PR bullshit, that they will support us.”

Raina took in a deep breath and let it out. She leaned into Chris, and he wrapped his arms around her and placed a kiss on her head. “I like that you aren’t as pessimistic as me. That is encouraging and helps me to ease my anxiety,” she said to him.

“We got this, Raina. We will make it through the hard part, trust me.”

Three weeks. That was how long Chris and Raina were able to hide their relationship. It was a nice quiet three weeks between the two before the media storm eventually hit. The couple became inundated with calls from the media, whether it be questions about their relationship or begging for an interview. Both PR reps denied requests for interviews or commented on the couple’s relationship. 

As Raina expected, the fans were in a tizzy. Once again, Raina’s fans were super supportive of her relationship with Chris; however, some were cautious for her as they worried that Chris’s reputation as a “womanizer” would tarnish her image somewhat. With Chris, his fans were split down the middle, with some showing support, while others proceeded to throw hate towards Raina’s way. Thankfully, her fans (and some fans of Chris) would immediately step in and call out the haters. 

Nevertheless, Raina would do her best to ignore the vitriol thrown her way and go about her life. She finally got the man of her dreams, and no one was going to mess that up. She would continue to focus on Moulin Rouge, which was her top priority, and not focus on any negativity. 

Also, Raina’s dad was coming into town for his birthday and see the show. She was excited to see him as he mostly stayed up in Long Island. He was not one to venture into the city very often.

After declining Raina’s offer to drive him herself or have her driver bring him, George opted to drive into the city. It was rather odd to Raina, considering that her father hated having to drive on the freeway. But she shrugged it off and deemed it a good thing that her father was getting out of Long Island for a while. 

However, Raina could not put it past her that something was off with her dad.

“What do you mean?” Chris asked Raina as he sat on her couch watching television.

Raina sat down next to Chris. He noticed she kept looking down at her cellphone. “My dad just sent a text, saying he will meet us at the restaurant.”

Chris was puzzled. “Yeah, so…”

“So, my dad doesn’t know how to text. He’s not a texter. Texting and George Morrison do not go hand-in-hand. What gives?” Raina wondered in distress. “Did you teach him how to text?”

“No,” Chris responded, trying to hold back his laughter. “Come on, Raina, he was bound to learn how to text sometime. This a good thing. That way, you guys can text each other now.”

Raina merely shrugged her shoulders. “I guess.”

“You’re very cute; you know that, right,” Chris stated, leaning over for a kiss, which she gave willingly.

Unfortunately, two hours later, Raina was back at it with worrying. “Ah-ha! Look at this new text, Chris. Read what it says. Go on, read it!” she ordered and handed Chris the cellphone.

Dad: We made it in safe, but rather late. Now at the hotel. We are going to eat in and call it a night. We’ll see you tomorrow. Love you.

“Oh wow,” was all Chris said.

“We? Who the fuck is this ‘we’ my dad is referring to, huh?”

Chris handed Raina back her phone. “Raina, you know your dad has been dating. He is not Casanova, but he goes out occasionally. I thought you had gotten over your resistance about your dad dating again?” 

“I try to, but it is hard. It is hard to imagine him with another woman that isn’t my mom. I know she would want him to be happy and not alone. But…”

When Chris saw Raina begin to cry, he immediately engulfed her into his arms and held her while she cried. Chris could never understand Raina’s pain of losing a parent, but he would do his best to support her in that moment and every moment after. 

“I miss her all the time, Chris,” Raina managed to squeak out.

“I know you do, darling. I know,” Chris said while continuing to hold her and stroke her hair tenderly. 

“It has been nine years since mom died, and I just can’t get over it. That night was so fucked up. If we had demanded the paramedics take her the first time they came, then she might have…”

“Raina, you can’t do that to yourself. You can’t play the what-ifs game,” Chris consoled. He has had this talk with Raina before. She always replayed that night over and over about what could have been done to save her mom. “I may not have known your mom very well, but I do remember the one time I did talk with her. It was when you sang with the Boston Pop Orchestra back in spring of 2010. Both your mom and dad were there, along with my mom and me. I remember the look on your mom’s face when you began seeing. Marie was in such awe and was crying. She looked so proud, Raina. She told me that no matter what, you would always be her little girl. That goofy little girl who would rather spend time in her room playing the guitar or keyboard and writing down song lyrics. She is with you all the time, Raina. She’s never left you.”

“It still sucks, though,” stated Raina and wiped away the tears with her sleeve. “Okay, I’m tired of crying.” She took a deep breath and retreated to the bathroom to wash her face.

If her dad were dating, then she would be supportive. He deserved to have someone by his side. It was not fair for him to spend the remainder of his life alone. Raina decided to view it as George’s way of honoring his late wife by living his life to the fullest. It is what Marie would have wanted. 

[foreverlogical]

Donald Trump will not be getting his social media megaphone back just yet, but a decision by Facebook’s handpicked Oversight Board on Wednesday opens the door for a possible comeback.

Facebook banned Trump indefinitely following his Jan. 6 incitement of supporters to storm the U.S. Capitol building as lawmakers voted to finalize the results of the 2020 U.S. election, which he lost.

On Wednesday, Facebook’s Oversight Board issued a ruling that called the company “justified” in its suspension of Trump’s accounts after the Capitol riot—but said the company must decide whether to permanently ban the former President, or give him a path to getting back control of his account.

“Given the seriousness of the violations and the ongoing risk of violence, Facebook was justified in suspending Mr. Trump’s accounts on January 6 and extending that suspension on January 7,” the Board said in a statement Wednesday.

The Board appeared to focus narrowly on Facebook’s decision to impose an “indefinite” ban. “It was not appropriate for Facebook to impose an ‘indefinite’ suspension,” the Board said. “It is not permissible for Facebook to keep a user off the platform for an undefined period, with no criteria for when or whether the account will be restored.”

The Board ordered Facebook to “justify a proportionate response that is consistent with the rules that are applied to other users of its platform” within six months—potentially opening the door to Trump returning to the platform before the end of the year. Facebook could still decide to ban Trump permanently.

Wednesday’s news came a day after Trump launched his own “communications” website, with a feed of posts that are labeled as “from the desk” of the former President. “There won’t be any Big Tech censors trying to muzzle Conservatives for sharing FACTS,” said the Republican National Committee in an email sent to supporters.

Read more: Facebook’s New Oversight Board Is Deciding Donald Trump’s Fate. Will It Also Define the Future of the Company?

Though Trump still wields great influence in the Republican Party, his public profile has been relatively small since he left office and had his social media access cut off—relying on radio and TV interviews and public appearances, which don’t give him the same unfiltered access to millions of people.

“If he is no longer on these platforms, you know, memories fade,” says Shanto Iyengar, a professor of political science and communication at Stanford University. “Trump may just disappear into semi-oblivion and someone else may emerge as the populist standard-bearer for 2024. For a political figure, not being in the limelight is a liability, period.”

Why Facebook stripped Trump of his megaphone

Facebook’s decision to suspend Trump came just days before the end of his presidency, during which he had used Twitter, along with Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to spray a daily torrent of misinformation—including lies about COVID-19 and baseless claims of election fraud. Instead of banning him for those untruths, the platforms only went as far as labelling some of his statements as misinformation and removing several others. The free speech implications of banning a sitting President outright were clear—and so was the threat of retaliation from Trump, who had long complained of anti-Conservative bias at Facebook and other Silicon Valley firms. (In fact, research shows that Facebook tends to benefit far-right voices more than other news sources.)

But after a mob stormed the U.S. Capitol, each of the big platforms finally ejected the President, casting their decisions as last-ditch measures aimed at protecting American democracy. “We believe the risks of allowing President Trump to continue to use our service during this period are simply too great,” Facebook said in a statement at the time, announcing the President’s ability to post new content would be suspended indefinitely. (His pages and old posts have still been accessible for the duration of the period.)

On Jan. 21, Facebook passed the Trump case to its new Oversight Board for adjudication. The Board was set up by Facebook in May 2020 to adjudicate the company’s most controversial decisions.

Announcing the decision, Nick Clegg, Facebook’s vice president for global affairs, cast the decision as good for democracy. “Many argue private companies like Facebook shouldn’t be making these big decisions on their own. We agree,” he said, adding that the company believed it would be better for lawmakers to set the rules. “But in the absence of such laws, there are decisions that we cannot duck. This is why we established the Oversight Board.”

So, what is the Facebook Oversight Board, and who gave them the right to make such a momentous decision?

What is the Facebook Oversight Board?

Mark Zuckerberg first publicly floated an idea for a Supreme Court-style body for Facebook in 2018. “I’ve increasingly come to believe that Facebook should not make so many important decisions about free expression and safety on our own,” he said in a blog post.

In May 2020, that idea became reality when Facebook announced the creation of an Oversight Board, with 20 members with experience in fields including government, media, constitutional law, and human rights.

The Board is funded by a $130 million trust, set up by Facebook. The trust pays each of the Board’s members a six figure sum, according to the New York Times. Facebook says the board is legally independent, and that its rulings will be both binding and transparent.

In January, the Board ruled on its first six cases. It overruled Facebook’s original decision in five of them, forcing Facebook to reinstate content that it had removed.

Facebook is bound by the Board’s bylaws to abide by its decisions. But there are several limits on what the Board can currently rule on. It cannot tell Facebook to remove Groups, just individual pieces of content or pages. And it cannot tell Facebook to change the algorithms that decide which content is amplified in users’ newsfeeds.

Already, at least one member of the Facebook Oversight Board has publicly criticized its limited remit. “I think the Board will want to expand in its scope. I think we’re already a bit frustrated by just saying take it down or leave it up,” Alan Rusbridger, former editor of the U.K.’s Guardian newspaper, told a parliamentary committee in March. He also said the Board would eventually demand to see Facebook’s content-ranking algorithms, “At some point we’re going to ask to see the algorithm, I feel sure,” he said. “Whether we can understand it when we see it is a different matter.”

While some observers have welcomed the increase in transparency, the Oversight Board has also come in for criticism. One leading critic is Rashad Robinson, president of the civil rights group Color of Change. “Zuckerberg and Facebook want us to believe they’ve given real power to the Oversight Board, when in fact they have essentially made these people, who have deep credibility and years of work, into hall monitors,” he says.

Read more: Facebook’s Oversight Board Is Reviewing Its First Cases. Critics Say It Won’t Solve the Platform’s Biggest Problems

“Trump’s absence from Facebook has created more room for conversations that are not centered around Trump. But this is not about Trump,” Robinson says. “It’s about platform design, and the incentive structure that benefits from a Trump. It’s like thinking we’ve dealt with racial injustice in policing after George Floyd’s murderer Derek Chauvin was convicted. That doesn’t change the incentive structure. So we’ve ended up with a charitable solution to a structural problem.”

How did the Oversight Board make its decision on President Trump?

In making its decision on Trump, the Oversight Board was confined to a narrow question: had the former President broken any of Facebook’s rules, and if so, was his ban justified?

To deliberate that question, the Board followed a process identical to how it tackles all its cases. First, it randomly selects a panel of five members, including at least one from the country where the content originates (in this case, the U.S.). The identities of the panel members are not disclosed to the public.

The Board calls for evidence from the people involved; in the case of Trump, both Facebook and the former President submitted written arguments. (A spokesperson for the Board declined to comment when asked by TIME in February if Trump’s statement would ever be made public.) For each case, the Oversight Board also calls for input from the public. The Trump case garnered more than 9,000 public comments—many times more than all the Board’s previous cases combined.

Next, the panel then looks at how the decision fits with Facebook’s existing policies. When panel members come to an agreement, they submit the decision to the rest of the Board’s 19 members, who vote. If the ruling receives a simple majority, the Board announces its decision.

In allowing Trump back on Facebook, the Oversight Board ruling affirmed the company’s decision earlier this year. “We look forward to receiving the Board’s decision,” Clegg said in January. “We hope, given the clear justification for our actions on January 7, that it will uphold the choices we made.”

[infinitypassiveincome]

SociRobotic Review

SociRobotic, Why should you look for traffic other than Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, And Twitter? Yes, we agree that the top four social media platforms have the most users (almost 6.3 billion in total), thus your target demographic is likely to be concentrated here. But there’s one thing you should be aware of: the competition is fierce.

Everyone is concentrating on these top four because the professionals say you should. They also overlook the fact that there are alternative social media platforms with tens of thousands, if not millions, of daily users.

The easiest way to outsmart your competition as a savvy business owner is to be where they are, but also be where they are not. In that manner, you’ll take 100% of the platforms they overlook while cutting your own share from the platforms they focus on. Consider how much traffic you’d get if you used all 11 social media platforms.

The big problem: Managing all 11 platforms at once Is a lot of work; One of the most difficult aspects of utilizing social media traffic is the amount of time it takes. It takes a lot of effort to administer only one platform, so picture what it will take to handle eleven.

They are well aware of this. That’s why they created this application to help you acquire a lot of traffic from these 11 social media channels all from one place. Let me introduce you to SociRobotic.

SociRobotic Review – Overview

SociRobotic Review – What is SociRobotic

SociRobotic is a one-of-a-kind social media management suite that generates endless traffic, leads, and sales from over 11 different social media platforms without requiring any special expertise.

SociRobotic is the only All-In-One social media automation and traffic generation technology on the market, allowing you to generate highly targeted buyers traffic from 7 different social media networks to any page, website, or store in just a few clicks, with no technical expertise or setup required.

SOCIROBOTIC RATING

EASY TO USE        

PRICE        

FEATURES        

QUALITY        

SUPPORT        

BONUSES        

SUMMARY

SociRobotic is a one-of-a-kind social media management suite that generates endless traffic, leads, and sales from over 11 different social media platforms without requiring any special expertise.

SociRobotic is the only All-In-One social media automation and traffic generation technology on the market, allowing you to generate highly targeted buyers traffic from 7 different social media networks to any page, website, or store in just a few clicks, with no technical expertise or setup required.

OVERALL

Pros

Simple Yet Powerful User Interface

Easy To Use Graphic Ready Made Templates

Emoji Library To Make Your Posts Pop

Track Everything From One Dashboard

Create Amazing Looking Blog Posts

Upload Video and Images To Increase Engagement

Send Email To Multiple Contacts In One Click

Commercial Agency License Included

Cons

So far, there are no downsides for SociRobotic. My experience using SociRobotic has been flawless.

SociRobotic Review – Features and Benefits

Easily Post Your Content To 11 Platforms With One Click: You just need to create content once, and it will automatically post it for you on all the 11 connected social networks.

Save Time With The “Schedule Your Post” Feature: You can schedule a post to go live on those platforms at a set date and time. Tell SociRobotic when you want each one to go live and the platforms it should be posted on. Then spend your valuable time on other important areas of your business, while SociRobotic posts them for you.

Create & Reuse Captions In 1 Click: With this, you can create short captions inside SociRobotic and reuse them over and over and over again any time you want to create a new post.

Add Unlimited Accounts And Group Them By Niche/Businesses: You can create as many accounts as you want inside SociRobotic, and group them according to niches or businesses. And since you’re getting a commercial license with this version of SociRobotic, it means you can create accounts for other businesses as well and help them run their social media activities.

Never Lack Content For Your Social Media Audience: You can integrate RSS feeds from blogs and websites that posts content relevant to your niche. It will pick up those contents when they release it, and share it with your social media audience automatically.

2GB Free Image Storage Included For You: It allows you to save up to 2GB in image files inside the app. With this, you can store up images there so the software can easily pick it up when it wants to make a post for you. You can also import content from Dropbox with ease inside the software.

All The Images You Will Ever Need For Your Social Media Posts: Using images downloaded from Google on your social media posts can get you into trouble. They don’t want that to happen to you, and that’s why they built in over 1 million royalty free images you can use for your social media posts.

Never Miss A Trend; Ride On It To Get More Traffic Using SociRobotic: You can simply enter a keyword within the app to find the trending hashtags for you related to that keyword on Instagram and Twitter. With this you can simply plug it into your posts and get more attention and traffic from your posts.

Post On Your Blog Too Without Logging Into Your WordPress Admin Area: You can connect your blogging platform to SociRobotic and post your articles directly to it without leaving SociRobotic.

2 Inbuilt Photoshop Like Image Editors: It also comes with dozens of templates so you do not need to brainstorm on designs to post etc.

Unlimited Social Media Management: You literally get unlimited use on all the features of SociRobotic on this page NO CAP.

Commercial License Included: Never post boring images ever again, with their inbuilt image editors, you will be able to edit pictures right before you post them on your social media handles.

SociRobotic Review – How does it work?

It’s so simple to use that there are only three steps:

Step 1: Log in to SociRobotic

Step 2: Connect your social media accounts. You can connect as many as you want…no limits

Step 3: Post your content and SociRobotic will push it to 11 social networks for you, bringing you loads of traffic.

It is now the best software for social media management and traffic generation. So sign up for SociRobotic right now. Connect it to the 11 social media sites that are associated with it. Experiment with the many amazing features it contains.

SociRobotic Review – My experience in using it

I have the chance to try using SociRoboticas as a beta user so you can totally trust me with my honest review about my thoughts and experience with this software.

But before that, I would like to walk you through all the fun and powerful features so that you can have a clear overview of the product and what it can really do.

Here I’m inside the SociRobotic Dashboard. It gives you a quick overview of the total number of posts including succeeded posts and failed posts. You can view it in total or in each social media just by choosing from the left column.

In the “Publish all” section, you can write your post from here and publish it to your favorite sites. You can upload any kind of media including photos, videos, links, or text. To post it directly, just click the “Post now” button. Or else you can choose to schedule.

Switching between platforms can be done with ease by just clicking at the icon of the social media you want to post to.

You can do that separately with each social media platform. For example, here I am writing my post for Facebook Also, you are able to add as many accounts as you like.

Similarly with any other platforms including Instagram, Twitter, Linkedin, Tumblr, and Reddit.

As I have mentioned before, you can schedule your posting. Free to check the posting calendar in the Schedules section. Everything is laid out logically, which makes it so easy to keep track.

Another feature that I like is that SociRobotic allows you to upload files from your Drive, Dropbox, or Cloud. You can see all of your files here.

You can also add and write a new caption. Just type in the caption box and click the Submit button below

One more thing that is extremely useful is that you can add watermarks to your post. All you need to do is upload the picture you want to make your watermark, adjust its size, position, transparency and finally save it. Then you have your watermark. How easy and simple.

MY OPINION:

SociRobotic allows you to add multiple profiles from various platforms and schedule social media updates at your leisure or utilizing a queue with times that you set.

You can configure the listening stream to display whatever profiles/hashtags you desire at any given time. From the news feed, you can reply, assign posts, forward posts, retweet, and retweet with comments.

They can also integrate with sponsored adverts, although we don’t utilize them for that. I like that you can view an upcoming post calendar so I can know if there are any holes in our schedule.

The dashboard is simple to use and offers a variety of views, including a calendar, so you can see whether you have a lot of messages that need to be spaced out. The SociRobotic All-Stars Slack channel is another source of information and support.

SociRobotic also has incredibly detailed reporting for each platform, which has given me a better understanding of how our accounts and postings are performing. It’s been quite beneficial. I used to always forget to publish before, but this has made it much easier to prepare ahead!

Who should buy it?

You’re already aware of SociRobotic’s ability to assist you with your internet business. It doesn’t matter if you’re a marketer, a realtor, a coach, or if you sell digital downloads, eCommerce products, or other services.

However, if you truly wanted to boost SociRobotic’s earning potential and establish a separate full-time income with only part-time effort, you could use SociRobotic to run your own posting service for both online and offline businesses.

Pros and Cons

SociRobotic Review – Pros:

Simple Yet Powerful User Interface

Easy To Use Graphic Ready Made Templates

Emoji Library To Make Your Posts Pop

Track Everything From One Dashboard

Create Amazing Looking Blog Posts

Upload Video and Images To Increase Engagement

Send Email To Multiple Contacts In One Click

Commercial Agency License Included

SociRobotic Review – Cons:

So far, there are no downsides for SociRobotic. My experience using SociRobotic has been flawless.

Price and Evaluation

FE (SociRobotic Pro – $21/$27):

One-Click Posting on Facebook pages, Facebook groups, Instagram, Linkedin, Twitter, Pinterest, Telegram and YouTube (plus Reddit) 8 Social Media Platforms

Facebook Group (Admin) & Page Posting

Reach 6.7 Billion Active users on Major Platforms

Organic Leads Without The Need To Advertise

Connect Unlimited Social Media Accounts

Schedule and Post Unlimited Posts Monthly

Create Unlimited Social Media Graphics Using Our Next Gen Image & Graphics Editors

2GB File Manager for Media Upload

Easy Media File Browsing

Drag-And-Drop Social Media Account Group Manager

Social Media Post Preview

Next-Gen Image Editors

Text, Link, Image & Video Posting

Captions Library for Your Favorite Post Captions

Clear Reporting per Social Media Platform

Post Planner for Queued, Published and Unpublished Posts

Instagram Story & Carrousel Posts with Geo Targeting

Commercial License for Sale of Commercial Products

Connect Unlimited Social Media Accounts

30-Day Money Back Guarantee

SociRobotic OTO 1 (SociRobotic Agency – $47):

Your Own Dashboard to Add & Manage Team/Clients

Complete User Management Ability

User Activity Reporting

SociRobotic Max Functionality to Publish on the 11 BIGGEST Social Media Platforms

An All In One Agency Suite that gives you 360 degrees management of your agency. From invoices to quotes to billing etc.

A Website to Gain New Local Business Clients (Including Instructions on how to deploy it)

A Sales Video Presentation you can easily edit with your logo and agency details.

A Professional PowerPoint Presentation For Your Sales Meetings

A Work Agreement Template

SociRobotic OTO 2 (SociRobotic DFY – $197):

We will brainstorm an agency name for you.

We will design a unique logo for you.

We will set up your agency website with all you need to get started.

We will set up your client manager account with your agency details.

SociRobotic OTO 3 (SociRobotic Whitelabel – $497):

We will set up SociRobotic on your own server with all our sales materials customized to fit your new software.

Conclusion

This is the end of my SociRobotic Review. I hope it will give you some useful insights about the product and how it can leverage your business. Don’t hesitate and click the sales button now to own such a great product and upgrade your business. Lastly, if you like this product or have any comments/questions, leave them below and let me know!

NOTE: THIS IS THE SPECIAL DEAL FROM ME: I Will Support You Whenever You Want. (Just Add My Skype: rick.nguyen61). If You Buy This Product From My Site, You Can Ask Me Anything You Want.

https://youtu.be/2q76-LjaGDE