#definitely does help them keep up with learning and expanding

[erigold13261]

What sorta languages do your NSR cast speak? Although we know DK west and Zuke speak Malay but everyone else… hmmmm

I would say a majority of the cast, if not all of them, speak Malay to some extent. If they can't speak it they can at least understand it since I like to think Vinyl City is in Malaysia and everyone who interacts with DK West knows what he is saying.

So like, either Tatiana, May and Eve all also know Malay, or the language we hear in the game (English for me, other languages are for other people) are just for us and the "canon" language they are actually speaking is Malay. Either way though, I see everyone knowing at least some Malay.

And I guess I would say they all know English as. English was probably everyone's second language if it wasn't their first. So that being said, I'll get into specifics (Gonna try to put them in order of when they learned, so first one should be their first language unless I forget and mess up lol. So last language in the first sentence is their last learned language they can confidently speak, though it might not be fluent.)

Mayday: Malay, English, Hebrew and some Korean and Hindi (she's learning)

Zuke: Malay, Arabic, and English. Probably trying to learn Korean

DJSS: Swahili, English, Malay. Some Spanish, Koran, MSL and KSL.

Sayu: Malay, English, Chinese, Tamil, Hindi, Japanese, and Vietnamese (all of these were more coded into mer than mer learning them naturally.) For a language Sayu is trying to learn merself: Korean

-I feel like the rest of the Sayu Club would also know all the same languages as Sayu just from being coded with that knowledge beforehand. So They all share that, but I will give languages they want/are trying to learn as well.

Aoi: German, Russian, or Swedish

Haru: Korean or Thai

Yua: French

Renho: French or Spanish

Remi: English, Hebrew, Hindi, Chinese, Malay. Some Japanese and Korean (also JSL)

Tila: Tamil, Chinese, Malay. Some Japanese and Korean (also JSL)

Dodo: Japanese, English, Malay. Some Chinese. Some Korean JSL and KSL

Sofa: Vietnamese, English, Malay, Chinese. Some Korean. JSL and some KSL

Yinu: Spanish and Zulu. Decent at English, and some Malay (still learning a lot, her English is much better than her Malay). Very little Korean because she is just starting. LSM. Only a few signs or phrases in JSL and KSL.

Mama: Zulu, Spanish, English. Some Malay and Korean (not the best but is trying to use it more and more). LSM. Some JSL and KSL.

Papa: Spanish and English. Knew only a bit of Zulu. LSM

Neon J: Korean, English, Malay. Some Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese. KSL (can't see anymore though, so only sees it when 1010 sign because of robotics). Braille and Korean Morse Code (I think this is called SKATS, or a version of it is).

Rin: Korean, English, Malay. Learning Arabic. KSL, Braille, Morse Code and Binary code. Some JSL.

Purl: Korean, English, Malay, Japanese, Chinese, Hindi, Russian, French, Spanish (both Mexican and Spain) and Arabic. Some Vietnamese, Swahili, Zulu, German, Thai, and Tamil. Learning Ukraine, Gaeilge, Filipino, and Italian. Knows few words in Greek, Hebrew, and Portuguese. KSL, JSL, and MSL (trying to learn sign language for Russian and Malay as well). Can read Latin and is trying to speak it more. Braille, Morse Code and Binary Code. They can also count to 10 in all these languages plus a bunch more.

[Purl has a special interest in languages, so they have been trying to learn as many as possible and will use them whenever they can, which happens a lot in a place as popular as Vinyl City]

Zimelu: Korean, English, Malay. Some French. KSL. Some JSL. Braille, Morse Code and Binary Code.

Haym: Korean, English, Malay. Very little Hebrew and Hindi (just picked up some words from May and Eve really). KSL and some JSL. Braille, Morse Code and Binary Code.

Eloni: Korean, English, Malay. Some Japanese and Chinese. Actively learning Greek. KSL, JSL, and some MSL. Braille, Morse Code and Binary Code.

Dew: Korean and English. Knows Malay, Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese from coding (similar to the Mermaid Club). Learning Spanish. KSL and JSL. Morse Code.

Maragold: Korean and English. Malay only from code. Learning Spanish and MSL.

Carna: Korean and English. Malay only from code. Learning swear words in other languages (any language that Purl knows that others wouldn't since they won't understand what fae is saying).

Eve: Hindi, Hebrew, English, Chinese, Malay. Some Korean and JSL.

Tatiana: Russian, English, Malay. Knows Spanish and French but is very rusty in both those languages.

Kliff: English, Korean, Russian. Some Malay, French and Spanish. Morse Code.

DK West: Malay, Arabic, English. Some Korean, Russian, and Japanese. Probably some KSL. Would know Malay sign language.

Cyril: Japanese, Russian, English (Brit), Malay. Some Korean.

Noa: Japanese, English (Brit). Morse Code. Some Russian words.

Asa: Japanese, Hebrew, English (Brit). Some Russian words.

Rei: Japanese, English (Brit/Aus). Some Russian words.

Elivy: French, English, Spanish, Russian. Braille.

Quida: Spanish, English. Some French and Russian.

Joust: French, Arabic, English. Spanish and Russian (rusty with those two though).

Martha: English and Korean.

Aria: English and Korean.

Esther: Zulu and Spanish. Some English. Few words in Malay.

Braam: Zulu and Spanish.

Alyona: Russian. Some English.

Matvey: Russian. Very little English.

Nova's Mom: Swahili and English. Some Malay.

Nova's Dad: Swahili, English, Arabic. Some Malay.

[solitary-traveler]

Charisma Etched on Strings

You despised being near Scaramouche. It was a danger to your well-being.

Because all you can feel is the warmth of his body traveling to yours, enclosing around you and morphing into the oxygen that you so desperately need to survive.

Electric guitarist!Scaramouche x Gn!Reader

Notes: I swear this one has no set pov. It switches between Scara and the reader so I apologize for that. Also, I'm not that good at wiriting x readers *insert crying emoji*

Warning: Slight cursing

It was supposed to be a harmless guitar lesson.

So how the fuck did you end up sitting on this shithead’s lap?

“Easy sweetheart. Stop squirming," Scaramouche’s grating voice reverberated throughout the otherwise empty room. The words he spouts are pestiferous, enough to ensure a fist will land on his face if he doesn’t shut up soon. You merely asked him for a guitar lesson, not to be manhandled and subjectively humiliated by this sick bastard of a friend. “Get me off your lap!" you protest, writhing against his arms. 

You want nothing to do with this. 

Yet he cages you with that god-forbidden instrument of his, propping the black, electric guitar in front of you. You were effectively sandwiched between that handsome son of a bitch and his prized musical instrument. “You said you wanted to learn right?" he mused, his calloused hand cascading down your wrist to seize it securely, "This is the fastest way." 

Lies. 

You scoff at his pathetic excuse to justify himself. He’s just so full of bull. You know he was amused at your predicament, your thrashing and twisting igniting a twinge of sadistic pleasure within him. Scara shifts slightly, a lock of your hair twirled around his index finger, “Now stop moving so we can start our lesson.”

Without much of a choice, you reluctantly compelled to his demands. Your tantrums ceased, much to Scara's entertainment. He knows how much you detest your current dilemma and he couldn't help but take advantage of it. He wants to mess with you. To increasingly rile you up every passing second. He presses his chest completely against your back, wanting to see those cute little veins of yours pop out. His lips twitched upwards as he made sure there wouldn't be any space left between you two. He could hear your pretty lips part and verbalize a gasp. 

A sweet, sweet treat for his ears. 

He couldn't be bothered to give you a chance to retaliate. It was way more fun toying with you when he rendered you helpless. Leaning closer and letting his breath fan against the tip of your ears, his fruity voice resounds through your brain and into your spine in the form of shivers. "Let's learn some basic chords first," he murmurs as he slinks his fingers towards yours, hovering over them. Scara felt the smirk on his face expand, you sure do have a warm set of hands. He surely wouldn't mind if it was pressed with his all the time. Stuck in his wishful thinking, he absentmindedly squeezed your thumb lightly. He blinks. Ah, he was getting distracted. He clears his throat and he proceeds, "Just like in every lesson, we start with C". 

He adjusts your index finger to pin the second string on the first fret. He does the same with your middle and ring finger, stationing them on the second fret of the fourth string and the third fret of the fifth string respectively. His loitering fingers aid in pushing down the strings as he's aware that you're probably not pressing down hard enough. It also helped restrain any movements that may disrupt the sound when plucked. You, on the other hand, verbalized a protest. 

“Hey, that hurts," you hissed as you tried to lift your finger off. Even just slightly. But Scara wouldn't let you. He remains unfazed, unbothered by the fact that your fingers are possibly bruising underneath his. “It’s supposed to idiot, it's your first time,” Scara rolls his eyes and his resolve to keep your finger position doesn't falter. 

You'll definitely punch him after this. 

“Now strum,” he instructs and you've got half the mind to not follow through. Curse your curiosity though, washing away each and every one of your senses, dulling them and allowing it to control your other hand to strum the strings. It made a tune, not akin to those voice cracks of teenagers going through puberty or screeching bats when viciously searching for their next meal. It was a pleasant melody, a fine sound that signifies a correct mark. Scara smiles, watching in delight how taken aback you looked. "Good. Next chord," he was ready to shift the position of your fingers once more. Your fingers wouldn't budge though. You've reached your limit.

You've certainly had enough. 

Your heart's been racing since the beginning and you were sure you won't be able to take it anymore. Not with him being this close. You catch a whiff of his perfume, a woody fragrance with a base of leather that never fails to drive you insane. You want to smash your head against the wall so badly.

You despised being near him. It was a danger to your well-being.

Because all you can feel is the warmth of his body traveling to yours, enclosing around you and morphing into the oxygen that you so desperately need to survive.

"This is stupid", you scoffed before he could move your fingers. Scara tilts his head in your direction. Oh? Were you going to object to him again? How cute. He chuckles and raises his brow, “What is?” 

“Your way of teaching.” With a groan, you go back to your squirming strategy to try and break loose from his predatorial hold, “Can't we do this without being an inch away from each other?” 

Scara merely laughs at you. ‘Why? Does the closeness bother you?" he teases. He would get closer to you if he could, but there's literally no more space left between you and him. So he opts to angle his lips adjacent to your neck and let out a drag of air. His breath brushes against your skin, parallel to a gentle caress from a lover. He was so sure he just heard your breathing hitch. Adorable.

“Is this better?” he smirks, heaving a drawn-out breath once more. You shake your head and writhe, flailing your arms wildly in a fit of fulmination. Scara can't help but grin at your antics. He doesn't back down, reinforcing his hold over you. He won’t let go. I mean, why would he? When you fit perfectly in his arms?  

Your scuffle abated for a second and he caught the way your face turned into a stunning shade of red. “Aw, you're even blushing for me," he remarks, prompting you to resume your thrashing.

“Of course not! Why would I be!?” 

Scara chuckles, his gaze never leaving you. "Why the denial? Anyone with eyes can see how red you've gotten because of me."

You wanted to wipe that smug expression plastered on his face. He knows that. He's just reveling in the fact that you couldn't. 

He elevated his head to meet your twitching ears, ready to grace them with an assortment of breathy words bound to hit that sore spot in your heart. "There's nothing to deny you know? Not when I'm right here. Mindful and observant of how you feel towards me."

His fingers dragged from your jaw to your cheek, leaving a touch so sensual it's flabbergasting at most. He rested his hands along your cheek as he spoke with an allure that was sure to keep you on the edge, subconsciously thirsting for more. "I know you like me. You like it when we're this close," he continues, cocking your head up and exposing more of that tempting throat of yours. Not that he can see it from his point of view, but from the front? It would certainly be a sensual sight that would drive every inch of his self-control onto the edge of a cliff. 

"I don't mind it though. I don't mind watching your pathetic descent into the abyss of my heart," he chuckles, hands falling towards your lips. It was quite the contrast, his rough fingers kneading against your soft and plump lips. 

"So just fall for me, yeah?" his thumb rubs your upper lip in a circular motion. Honestly, he's tempted to shove his finger in your mouth. He wants to hear your feeble whines as he occasionally toys with your tongue, your erotic whimpers that deluges his entire sensibility. But he doesn't. At least not now.

"I'll be sure to catch you"

[puppetwoman17]

I would like to expand on the joker junior idea. Imagine Batman going to arkham to interrogate Joker for another case, leading to him getting beaten by bats while laughing about how he not only failed Jason but Tim as well. Laughing about how he tortured him, revealing his identity, how easy it was to break him. Batman then threatening to end him and joker replied with "Oh Batsy, if you truly were capable of doing it then Junoir wouldn't have needed to shoot me".

While that was happening everyone except was listening in the whole time and are seething about everything they heard until Tim put his ear piece back on that he took off before Batman started his interrogation because he knows it will get them nowhere so he tries to find a new lead (not because the very sound of Joker's laughter sends him back to when he was screaming as he was getting electrocuted and injected with joker venom that ridiculous he's fine) and told Bruce that he found another lead, getting him to stop pummeling Joker and leaving while he was left there laughing.

Sorry if this is all over the place it was something I came up with after reading your posts. Keep up the good work!

Thank you so much for this!

God that would honestly be mortifying for everyone involved(except the Joker obvi). All the kids are expecting him to taunt Bruce about Jason, and he does. He teases him on how he couldn’t get there in time and how his son still blamed him. Which, sure, Jason has his own gripes with his death, but the Joker is the person who he is LEAST okay with saying this.

But then things take a turn. The Joker starts talking about his SON, and since when did the Joker have a son? He calls him Junior. Teases the Bat that he was too late in saving him, and his boy would ALWAYS be a part of your little Red Ro—

Holy fucking shit.

Nightwing is screaming now. He demands that Batman tell them what the Joker meant. Why hadn’t he been told? What happened to Tim? Why did the Joker know him so well?

Jason is close to having a panic attack, because not only is the one person who scares him anymore on the loose, but he did the same to Tim. To his little brother. To someone who he’s grown close with over the years. Who definitely had a rocky relationship with him. Who talked with him despite that and worked with him despite that. To hear that that very same little brother had been attacked the same way he had, and worse, is more than enough to send the Red Hood on a rampage. The Joker isn’t escaping again, that’s for sure.

Cass is not one to make her presence known. She knows how to keep quiet. How to wait for the right time to strike, but she’s on the Joker in the next possible minute. Even Batman steps back and watches as she beats the person who hurt her brother into the ground. Batman doesn’t know whether to cheer her on, or tell her to stop.

Spoiler is the only one with Tim, and she can’t help but just stare. She doesn’t speak, she doesn’t yell or cry or accuse him of keeping such a heavy secret, she just looks at him. Not with pity, but with the sinking realization that no one knew. Not even her.

Damian wasn’t allowed to leave the cave. He’s sitting by the Batcomputer with Alfred behind him. While he and Drake didn’t have the closest relationship, it’s been some time since he truly thought of him as anything but his brother. He learned from him frequently, how to handle a specific gadget, how to deal with the Batman when his temper flared(slightly, he’s not an asshole anymore Dami(WHAT DO YOU MEAN ANYMORE??)). To hear about this horrifying experience and not be able to comfort Drake made him squirm in his seat.

He’s even more surprised when Pennyworth doesn’t give a single indication that he knows. Nightwing demands that Agent A tell them why he hid this from them. Everyone is shocked when he tells them he is just as clueless.

This is all background noise to Red Robin, because he just got a lead on where the Joker’s goons could be. He doesn’t pay attention to anyone’s words, instead telling Batman that he has a lead and to meet him at a location.

When all this is over and the Joker is back in custody, all Commissioner Gordon can do is pat Tim on the back and tell him to go the fuck home and sleep.

When all this is over, Babs locks up the Clocktower because she’s not dealing with this shit til she’s had her morning coffee.

[blogthebooklover]

30 Things I Learned As An Adult

In honor of me turning 30 in January, I’ve decided to write out a list of 30 things I learned as an adult.  Now, some of these worked for me through trial and error, while others did not.

1. Self Care Is Important

I cannot stress this enough.  We all need to practice self care, to take time for ourselves.  It takes baby steps to find a good self-care routine, and there’s plenty of online resources to find one to your tastes.  Remember it is all about trial and error, and don’t worry about perfecting it right away.  Research some different self care routines online as a starting point.

2. Read Books, Not Fanfiction

Okay, don’t get me wrong, I do love reading some good ole fanfiction, and current events.  However, definitely pick up a book once in a while.  Whether it’s a graphic novel, comics, manga, please develop a reading habit.  It definitely helped me out a lot as a former college dropout, there are reading lists on sites like Goodreads, here on Tumblr, even colleges have lists what books students are required to read.  And it does help with expanding your knowledge and vocabulary.  As I’ve previously said, I’m a former college dropout who’s currently back in school, however, developing a healthy reading habit is what kept me grounded.  If you need a starting point, I recommend reading a fiction book, preferably in the SciFi/Fantasy genre; or reread a book from your childhood.  Also, PLEASE GET A LIBRARY CARD!  You’ll definitely be saving a lot of money, and we need to support our public libraries now more than ever.

3. Say “No” More Often

If you don’t feel comfortable going out, or if your manager calls and asks to cover a shift, just say “no.”  Remember, you have the power to set boundaries, especially with family, friends, and work.  This correlates to number 1 on my list, self care is super important, and you cannot put your health at risk for anyone.  I’m going to repeat that last part: SELF CARE IS SUPER IMPORTANT, AND YOU CANNOT PUT YOUR HEALTH AT RISK FOR ANYONE!

4. Register To Vote, And Vote In Every Election

With politics being so polarized and divisive in the past decade, and the upcoming 2024 US Presidential Election, please register to vote.  And voter suppression has been very rampant in the past two, arguably three, decades.  To anyone about to turn 18 here in the US, please register to vote ASAP!  And vote in every goddamn election, both national and local.  I seriously cannot stress this enough.

5. Eat Healthy, No Seriously

I love some fast food once in a while now, however, please take some time to learn about healthy eating.  It will catch up with you in the future, and our US healthcare system is already fucked as all hell.  I know the rising costs of everything, including food, is insane right now; but please keep informed about how to prepare good healthy food.

6. Take Breaks From Current Events, Social Media, and the Internet

This also correlates with number one.  While it is very important to stay informed with what is happening in the world/country of origin; especially with the US Presidential Election year.  Remember, it’s okay to take breaks from reading too much news, and scrolling through social media feeds.  It really does have an effect on your mental health, and unfortunately too many people tend to fall down the conspiracy theory rabbit hole on all sides of the political spectrum.  To the teenagers and young adults, take breaks and focus on your mental health and well-being.  To the adults, read the previous sentence.  With everything so polarizing, take care of yourself first.  

7. High School Friends DO NOT LAST!

My friends from high school and early college years were definitely the “ride and die” type of  friends, metaphorically speaking.  If you have that one friend who was/is the “give the shirt off their back” type, check in on them once in a while.  However, with the former, just move on.  The friends I had in high school definitely had a lot of childhood trauma, and in one aspect, I’m glad that they were honest about it; it was/is a way to heal.  However, any “friend” who just doesn’t want to better themselves and use you for any convenience, DUMP THEM AND CUT OFF ALL CONTACT!  Remember just as you set boundaries with your toxic family members, and even for your job, you should do the same with friends.

8. Change Jobs, ASAP!

This is a very important one.  I didn’t really have a job as a teenager, I wanted to enjoy being a kid for a little longer, however, I did have an occasional babysitting job.  At 23 years old, I got a job at a fast food place.  While I do appreciate part of the experience, like how to use the “customer service” voice, however, any red flags that pop up in your head, change jobs, ASAP!  It was toxic, too political (for some weird reason) and a lot of drama (and not from the teenagers).  The grocery store I work at now does have its busy times, however, it’s much more calmer, and I don’t see too many “Karen” types. 

9. Declutter More Often

This is also a definite must as you get older.  Whatever you don’t need anymore, donate them.  Whatever is completely broken, throw it away!  Whatever it is that is in good condition, sell it or maybe give it to someone as a birthday/holiday present.  Any old makeup, throw it away!  It’ll help reduce the amount of clutter and mess.  If you need a starting point, I suggest the KonMari method.  It really did help me out a lot.

10.  Use A Planner

This is a life-and-time saver.  Write down any appointments, cleaning days, paydays, bill charges, etc.; into a physical planner.  If you’re in college, please use one!  And write down any assignments to work on/turn in BEFORE the deadline.  Also, anything important, put into your calendar app on your phone and laptop as a reminder.

11.  Have A Skin Care Routine

Okay, I know having a skin care routine isn’t for everyone, and we all have different reactions to skin care products; however, don’t be afraid to experiment with a good skin care routine.  In my early teen years, I used Proactiv skin care for my acne, and it helped out a lot.  Remember: cleanse, tone, any serum of your choice, and moisturize.  This also helps out if you don’t feel like jumping into the shower.  Also, use sunscreen, seriously.

12.  Don’t Get Married, Until You’re Ready

This is coming from someone who is single, lol.  If you plan on getting married to your romantic partner, I’m proud of you! Marriage is about communication, being honest, and doing equal amount of work (finances, household chores, etc.)  Save money if you’re planning for a wedding, or go to your local courthouse to get a marriage license if you don’t want the big, fancy reception.  

13.  Don’t Have Kids, Until You’re Ready

Again, this is coming from someone who is single and childless, lol.  Having kids is a lot of work: physically, mentally, emotionally, and financially.  Not everyone is capable of being a parent, and I have read PLENTY of posts on here and other websites about toxic parents/parenting styles.  Take time and think about if you’re ready to become a parent.

14.  Learn How To Budget Your Money

This is for anyone of any age out there.  Please learn how to budget your spending.  Look for stuff on sale or clearance, or cut back on certain types of spending. I know most people have no idea where to start, but there is! There’s some great websites and YouTube channels on how to budget your money. Another great tool to use are spreadsheets like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. I use a Google Sheet template to help track my spending and budget my finances. Also, if you have gift cards from your birthday/holidays/etc; definitely use them, you won't be breaking your bank account :). Also, definitely have some paper cash in your wallet for emergency use.     

15.  Open A Savings/Emergency Funds Account, ASAP!

This is a huge one to have as an adult, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Anything left over from paying the bills, from a side hustle, or from your tax returns, put that into savings.  Certain banks will also have the option of creating “financial goals” in savings accounts; so I highly recommend using that as well.  This also correlates with number 14.  If you’re interested, open two or three savings accounts, the last one should only be for emergency funds.

16.  Get A Physical Hobby, AKA Exercise!

It doesn’t matter what type of exercise you do, please do it!  And for anyone who is physically disabled, there are modified options provided on YouTube.  We do lose certain motor functions as we age, so definitely pick an exercise that’s right for you, as they say. Even if it's just going outside for a walk for 30 minutes, please do some type of exercise.   

17.  Learn How To Meal Prep

It doesn’t have to be for every meal of every day, pick a meal you want to make and prepare ahead of time.  And prepare that meal the day before, so it will be on hand when you leave your house. There are some great videos on YouTube, and some ideas from Pinterest if you need a starting point.

18.  If You’re Able To, Go To The Dentist!

Seriously though, try and go for a checkup/teeth cleaning.  You’re only given one set of teeth after all your baby teeth fall out, and you need to take good care of them.  If you’re able to, or live near to one, local colleges have free cleanings through their dental training programs.   

19.  If Your Job Offers a 401K, GET ON IT NOW!

My old job at a fast food restaurant didn’t have retirement benefits, but my current grocery store job does.  I jumped on it right away, even if it’s not the job I want right now.  And it’s a good starting point to have some money saved up for retirement. If you leave the job that has a 401k, you can do what's called a rollover. This will put the money that was set into the first retirement fund into another one; you can do this with your bank or if your new job has a 401k.

20.  If You Don’t Have Health Insurance, Sign Up With The State, or Through Your Job.

In my experience, I have insurance through the state at the moment.  If your job offers health insurance as well, jump on it right away, even if it’s not the job you want, it’ll be a starting point that correlates with number 19.

21.  It’s Okay To Not Go To College

This is coming from someone who was a college dropout at 19, and currently back in school.  If you don’t feel ready to go to college, that’s okay too.  College is very expensive, especially here in the US, and not everyone can get a scholarship, even if they did apply for a lot of them.  Maybe get a part-time job or two (for some income), explore some hobbies you enjoy, and take some time to think about some goals.     

22. If You’re In College, It’s Okay To Stay At Home

Again, coming from a former college dropout, I stayed at home while attending a nearby community college in another state.  However, out-of-state tuition and housing is also very expensive.  If you have a good relationship with your parents, and if you’re going to school in-state, talk to them about staying home while going to school.  If you don’t, then talk to a trusted friend or family member about getting an apartment together that isn’t on-site housing while you’re attending school.

23. Watch Non-English Language Movies

If you’re a movie lover like me, take some time to watch some foreign language films once in a while; and I know we anime fans do, lol.  To be honest, it does get very boring watching English language films all the time, whether from the States, England, or Canada.  Watching foreign language movies will definitely help you to understand the world a lot better, if you don’t have the means for traveling yet; and they will help you to understand that no matter where we live, we all have similar issues, hopes, dreams, etc.  If you need a starting point, I recommend any of the Studio Ghibli movies, I would start with Kiki’s Delivery Service; or Guillermo del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth.  

24. SET BOUNDARIES

Remember: toxic family members and friends are not worth it.  You are worthy and valid for love and respect.  This correlates to number 7.  This is also very useful in the workplace.  

25. Express Yourself Through Fashion

Like everyone else, I feel most comfortable in jeans and a t-shirt myself; however sometimes I like to dress up just for fun, or to build up my self esteem and image.  This also helps when learning to pair an accessory with an outfit.  Play around with different color palettes and clothing styles, and find the one you feel the most “you.”  For example, I’ve always looked my best in jewel tones and a cooler color palette.  Read some fashion articles or watch some YouTube videos about how to pick out an outfit.

26. It Is Not Selfish To Prioritize Yourself

This correlates with number 3.  I have noticed it’s mostly a Western/American/Christian culture norm, we’re always told to take care of others before taking care of ourselves; or we’re selfish for prioritizing ourselves over others. It is not selfish, it is part of self care. Again, this is tied in with number 24.

27.   Failing and Making Mistakes Is Part of Growing

There is so much societal pressure on trying to be successful in life and work, especially in the Western/American hemisphere. However, making mistakes and failing at something is part of growing, and learning as an individual.

28. It's Okay to Not Have a Label to Define Yourself

Hear me out. I understand the use of labels in society and culture in general; everyone wants to belong somewhere and feel accepted. However, it is okay to not have a label to define who you are, and who you want/choose to be. Take all the time you need to figure out what's best for you. And sometimes people don't realize a label will fit them until they are much older in life. Or they couldn't at the time.

29. Don't Compare, You'll Get There

We are human, and we all have the tendency to compare ourselves to others. Unfortunately, this doesn't end after high school and college. And that needs to seriously change, especially in the Western/American hemisphere. Simply writing down "don't compare, you'll get there" is a great reminder to have for yourself. Everyone learns and grows at their own pace.

30. It Really Is The Little Things That Keep Us Going

When life seems to get too hard, it really is the little things that keep us going. Whether it is something as simple as someone holding a door open for you, or someone complimenting* you on your outfit or your work ethic; those moments are the ones that matter the most. Remember those moments, hold on to them.

[scp230kinnie]

Hi im so glad I found someone still writes for hunter😭Could you do a hunter x goth reader or if you don’t feel like writing that I will take any hunter content literally😭❤️‍🩹

JSJSHSJS YES OKAY IM GONNA DO HEADCANONS JUST CUZ I DONT FEEL LIKE WRITING A LONG THING

Hunter Sylvester x Goth reader Headcanons

No warnings aside from being cringe and not proofread🙏 mostly gn!

⚠️ I AM NOT A GOTH PERSON so please feel free to let me know if I get anything wrong😭

Have fun reading

At first he really doesn’t like goth music 😭

He says it’s not metal enough for him or something

He learns to accept your music taste, knowing he’s not gonna change anything

He does try to get you to expand your music taste a bit

(By giving you metal recommendations)

IMAGINE GOING OUT IN FULL TRAD GOTH WHILE HE DOES CORPSE PAINT AWW

Lowkey he would to do corpse paint on you, and he would maybe be willing to let you do trad goth on him in return

He’s not a fan of the style himself, but he thinks you look absolutely freaking majestic

You always catch him staring at you or watching you do makeup

He shows you off to all his (3) friends for sure

“This is my amazing gf/bf 💪”

He will learn about the subcultures and stuff just for you

On the days you don’t do full read goth and just do like regular eyeliner or something, he’ll be all goofy like “who the fuck is this chick😦”

Shit bro he will buy you whatever clothes and accessories you want (with his dads card duh)

He will also (try to) help you do your hair

He doesn’t have any “goth” clothes, seeing as he’s a metalhead, but same goes for my last set of Hunter hcs, he will give you his hoodies and maybe his band shirts if you wanted

Painting each others nails🫶

He’s not good at it but damn right he’s gonna try

I just KNOW if you painted his nails he’d fuck it up instantly. Like it’ll still be drying and he’ll already smudge it in like 5 minutes

If you dye your hair, (light haired alternative people know😔) he will probably try to help

He has really low patience with it tho

If you have really thick or long hair he will straight up just give up

Idk how many times I’ve said it but he WILL try to learn your favourite songs on guitar

Back at it with the “serenading” thing but it’s just him flexing his skills

When ur not around he will try on your jewelry just to see how it looks

Will steal your rings if they fit him

Same thing with earrings

I’m like 90% sure he canonically has his ears pierced so if you have nice earrings he will take them and wear them with pride

I am not goth, once again. But I am some kind of alternative, and I know that a lot of these people have like spikes that they put on clothes and stuff

So he would definitely want you to do that with some of his stuff

That’s all I can think of for now 😇 keep them coming guys

[llamagoddessofficial]

how would the normal boyo's react to mc's death?

no murder, nothing crazy, just old age taking away the love of their lives.

and for bonus points lets say they had been happily married for decades as to add on the memories and the sudden shock of losing someone that had become such a key factor in your life.

I think I've mentioned this before, but it doesn't hurt to bring it up again. Aggre Mc is going to live a lot longer than she expected. Even with absolutely no intervention, thanks to her connection with the guys, her Soul has three major sources of magic nearby that instinctively constantly share their power with hers. It will probably expand her lifetime by a century, minimum. Her big issue isn't going to be dying; it's going to be dealing with the implications of living so much longer than she thought she would.

There's also the topic of a Soul bond. If she Soul bonds with any of the three of them, and doesn't have kids, she's pretty much going to live as a monster does (forever, unless interrupted). In Aggre, they definitely discuss the subject of her possible death eventually- and my personal canon post-Aggre is that after settling into a rhythm and spending a few decades together, when Mc decides she wants to Soul bond, the boys elect Sans to be the one she bonds with. She'd then live with them like that.

But... in a hypothetical scenario, where Mc resists everything and dies... I think this is how it would go. Obviously, angst and death under the cut.

Sans: Honestly, Sans takes her approaching death the best. Which should really worry you about how the other two would react. Does he fall apart? Absolutely, the last time he felt this kind of agony was when he lost his mother. But Sans has always been good at disguising his emotions, hiding tremendous pain under an easygoing exterior. He keeps up with the dishes, organises her end of life care, keeps contact with his friends. Papyrus would be the only one to see even a fraction of the true extent of Sans' grief. Sans is about to lose the love of his life, and has completely frozen over to avoid crumbling.

Red: He definitely takes it better than you'd expect, considering he'd have a mended relationship with his brother. But it still hits. It's cruel that the universe sent him someone who taught him how to let himself feel, then took that person away and delivered the worst pain he's ever felt.

Mc would be proud of him, though. Despite the pain, he avoids falling back into the worst of his old addictions, because he knows its not what she would want and it won't actually make the pain go away. It will just numb him to everything; including those who are trying to help. He picks up smoking again in the days leading up to her death, but he avoids the bottle.

Skull: It's hard, for him. It's really hard.

All of them knew it would be particularly difficult for Skull. They had a long time to discuss it- a long time to talk the subject over. Mc prepared stuff for him, for after she's gone... people to talk to, things of hers to hold when it hurts, exercises for him to hopefully learn to deal with it. For a while, everyone was convinced Skull was ready. Even Skull.

... But he just... he just can't do it. He can't do it. He can't let her go. It doesn't matter how many hours she spent holding his hands, how hard they all believed he'd be fine without her- it doesn't matter how much he healed by her side and how well adjusted he seems now. The moment he realises she's really genuinely dying, the journey ahead of him looks so impossibly dark, so frightening. He holds her as she's dying and he feels so small. He cries like a baby and begs her not to leave him behind.

The moment she dies, he catches her Soul. He holds it in his hands, hushing it like a scared bird and tucking it away into his chest, where he can keep her alive. Honestly, they'd have to cut him open if they wanted to let her pass on.

... But I think at that point, Red and Sans aren't exactly fighting to make him let go. In fact... something unspoken passes between the three of them. Skull just did what all of them wanted to do.

Skull gives her to Sans, who keeps her hidden away, within his own Soul. Her Soul knows his best, and will feel most comfortable there long-term.

They'll figure out something. They have all the time in the world.

[black-lake]

astro observations

Hi besties,

I have been studying and learning astrology for the past 4 years and this is my first astro observation, I have many yet to come. 🦊

Highlights: purpose, north node, neptune, jupiter, sun, mercury, fame, minor aspects, degrees, squares, moon, orbits.

  ------

⭐️ Jupiter positive aspects to moon and sun especially conjunction makes someone smile a lot, or have a beautiful bright smile. You can't help but smile when they do. 🥺

⭐️ Mars conjunct Uranus or Neptune is definitely the "performer" aspect. It gives huge talent in dance and performance in general, so many iconic performers have this aspect. Uranus, unique way of moving the body and expressing oneself that can't be compared to no one. Neptune, mesmerizing way of moving and expressing emotion that can be addictive.

⭐️ Mercury conjunct Neptune is definitely the "signer" aspect. It gives enormous musical talent. Other positive/negative aspects give someone huge love for music and dance. 

⭐️ Mercury aspecting North Node, an urge to use your voice through speaking or writing, singers, lawyers, journalists, tv show hosts and people who have to speak a lot, especially if aspecting MC too.

⭐️ Sun making any aspect to North Node (minor aspects included) is one of the biggest indicators of fame, especially square, quincunx, opposite and conjunct. This aspect means that the native has something that the public outwardly needs to elevate the collective, whether it's in their personality, outlook on life or a skill they have. One of the native's purpose is to put themselves out there and receive feedback whether positive or negative. The effect and feedback is rather visible, loud and changeable.

⭐️ Mars aspecting North node can also indicate public exposure especially when taking action like dancing, performing, acting, doing sports etc. 

⭐️ The biggest indicator of fame imo is Neptune aspecting North Node (minor aspects included) especially square, trine, sextile, quintile, and quincunx. Keep in mind that this does not always have to mean the usual concept of "fame", but rather an influence on the public and a subconscious push and pull to it. The native usually has talents or rather energies that the collective needs, looks up to and admires. The native is influencing the collective for a subconscious change in behaviors, thoughts and ways of living. The effect and feedback is rather mysterious, fantasy based, obsessive and long term.

⭐️ Neptune here can sometimes mean toxic admiration like seeing someone as an absolute perfection which can lead both the public and the native to distorted perceptions and harmful coping mechanisms.

⭐️ Neptune trine, sextile, square MC tends to be in the chart of actors and musicians, neptune opposite, conjunct MC tends to be in the chart of models and tv personalities. 

⭐️ Now if the native has both sun and neptune aspecting north node in a tight degree, possibly MC too. Oh boi, they have an excruciatingly strong urge and sense of purpose since a young age to be in the public eye and share parts of themselves and talents with people. They likely knew their purpose since a young age and trusted the universe. That's because part of their purpose is to receive "outer validation" using the skills and talents they acquired for their soul evolution. The feedback is what keeps them going. If they become too egoistic and forget their purpose they can receive major backlash and hate from the public, especially harsh aspects.

⭐️ Jupiter opposite/square moon, either too optimistic or too pessimistic with a hint of helpless optimism and sarcasm. (trust me I have this) :< It can also mean emotions surfacing and expanding out of nowhere. Wanting to understand your emotions. There's always a meaning for feeling a certain way, even if you don't know it.

⭐️ Also any Jupiter moon or mercury aspects, especially conjunctions, if someone tells you how they feel, you immediately start your philosophy session (I'm guilty of it) 💀 but in all fairness tho, you're always right or partially right about it. These aspects give this broad perspectives and understanding of life, although you can take it too far sometimes, given that they also didn't ask lol.

⭐️ When looking at your North Node, MC and Ascendant aspects it's essential to look at all minor aspects too and increase the orbs. Any aspect to these three points is relevant to your life and purpose. These are imo the most important points to look at in a chart. Minor aspects matter and matter a lot especially with the nodes.

⭐️ I disagree with astrologers saying that squares to the nodes are "skipped steps from a previous life", they are rather tense aspects that call the individual to take action consistently early on in life or suddenly at some point because the world won't wait for them and the timing is sensitive with the squares to the nodes. Especially if saturn is also involved in the mix. Individuals might feel that time stopped at a certain point or time won't stop and they need to act quickly.

⭐️ The north node is where we stand in the collective in terms of energy and perception. With squares and oppositions, not as flexible or free as trines and sextiles. The collective's world has many differences to the native's inner world, perception of the world or life in general. The energy matches at certain times where the universe nudges or forces these individual to take action or change something in their lives, and it's rather a difficult and transformative change (this applies to transits too). These aspects give me the feeling of your turn coming "too early or too late", either before the native is ready or after they gave up already.

⭐️ I advice that if you use astro.com to increase the orbs of the aspects to 145%. You can also do that if you use astro charts. Even though tight orbs are more prominent and obvious, wide orbs are very important too and still mean the exact same thing. They almost always answer my questions about a certain chart pattern that's missing! I take conjunctions and oppositions up to 13° sometimes 15°, trines and squares up to 12°, sextiles up to 9°, quincunxes up to 9, and quintiles up to 4°.

Love y'all 💛💛💛

[factual-fantasy]

27 ASKS!! AAA THANK YOU!! :DDD

Good question! :0 The Glamrocks would be quite creeped out. And actually, so would the sister location gang!

What I had in mind for my circus gang was that their face plates are not meant to move around to make them look more life like. They have the face plates for easy repair, replacement, cosmetic changes, and easy access to the endoskeleton if needed. When the animatronic is active, the faceplates are locked up tight and are not meant to open while the animatronic is active. Again, its just for easy repair and replacements.

So since the animatronics are not meant to move their plates, if one of them looked in a mirror and their face plates moved or opened.? They'd freak out! That's not meant to open! I must be broken! And they'd run to an employee for help <XD

NOOOO NOT THE BEAM ATTACK--

Maybe! :0 I haven't thought that part of the story through but I wouldn't be against that idea!

Funny how you say that when recently Browns headlights went out. Yeah he really does need glasses XDD

(He's fixed now btw don't worry👍)

She wasn't intended to have much of a role in the AU, considering Mario and Luigi are the only humans in the mushroom kingdoms dimension..

Maybe she could have been a childhood friend that they knew? Maybe she was their next door neighbor? Or perhaps a customer of theirs? What ever role she had in their lives back on Earth, it wasn't meant to be significant enough to remember/miss her..

@thebranflakescereal

The sister location gang? Prooobaly Circus Baby, with Funtime Freddy as a close second.

The Glamrock gang? Probably the daycare attendant XDD

@neo-metalscottic (Post in question)

AAAA THANK YOU SO MUCH!! :DD I'm so glad you liked my designs! And I'm also glad that my more mellow "go with the flow" vibe for Freddy was seen! That's what I was aiming for! :DD

As for the map bot question, yes! The beloved map bot is alive and well <XDD He's not a threat to Gregory currently and he thankfully doesn't bother the main cast much. He just hangs around until he sees someone in need of a map! XD

@ghfhgkfngjvfnvmfkf

Hmm,, good question. I think if Funtime Freddy was decommissioned but they kept the Bon's around?.. They wouldn't put the bons with Circus Baby or Ballora becuase they'd be out of place. Ballora and the reenas are humanoid. They're pretty, delicate, and are ballerinas. Circus Baby, Ennard and the Bidybabs are all humanoid as well and clown themed. With specific color palettes and a clown performance.

What they'd probably do is put them with Funtime Foxy and just expand his act to accommodate for the extra people. They'd make Foxy a magician/ringmaster and somehow incorporate the Bons into his act. Since him, Chica and the Bons are all animals it would fit better.

You can just put it in a paint program and white out all the characters like I did. :0

I did keep some of Jevil's powers from the game yeah. :0 But I've altered almost all of them in some way-

In the Grillby fight he's seen "teleporting" to avoid Grillby's attacks. I believe I saw a gif of Jevil teleporting and there looked to be a motion blur effect..? So I interpreted that as he doesn't necessarily disappear and reappear...? More he just moves incredibly fast.

He miiight be able to turn into the scythe.? But I've mostly just interpreted that as he is able to summon a scythe to his hands when ever he may need it. I haven't made use of the cloning ability because, well, I didn't know he could do that- <XDD I'll definitely have to add that though!

For Goner kid I'm not too sure.. my version has her as Monster kids little sister. And I've seen a lot of interpretations of MK having fire breathing powers. Maybe she has fire related powers too..? Either way, it'll take a long time for her to remember the powers she has, and even longer to learn how to control them. So as it stands right now she's pretty defenseless..

Spamton is supposed to have most/all of the powers that original Spamton does in the game. But his attacks are kind'a.. broken. Spamton's physical injuries leaked down into his very soul and cracked it. So all of his attacks are messed up. I'd have to do some research on what his attacks actually are, and then make them broken if he ever tries to use them.

Like for example, 2/3 projectiles he summons will fly off in the wrong direction. Any weapons that he summons will have bent handles and break easy.. stuff like that :(

I've heard about that power, but as far as I know Mario and Luigi just kind'a.. have that power naturally.? While in my AU, all the bros power come exclusively from powerups. If there was a Firebrand mushroom and a thunderhand flower? Sure! But if its something they can just do without any powerup assistance, then it wont fit into my AU.. :/

(Video in question)

XDD I can see that happening to Shellington and Kwazii

With DJ, Sun and Moon? Its very possible XDD

I think they'd get a long great! My version of Funtime Freddy is toned down a bit compared to canon Funtime <XD No crazy, "HEY BAWN BAWN!!"

(Post in question)

Yes! Even though he has nothing to do with sister location (as far as I can remember--) I've still thought about adding him in some kind of cryptic way.. 👀

@clockworkthenightbard

Thank you so much!! :DD

@khoiazo

AKASNSWNDEO TRAUMATIZED XDDD

Nope! They're all very colorful and sparkly, but they are not intended to be Glamrocks. :}

@minnesotamedic186

Yoooo that's a good idea! I'll have to at least do something with the Electrobab XD

@milk-powrit (Post in question)

Thank you!! :DD I cant fully retrace my thought process- But I believe I wanted to make the Minireenas not scary. So I gave them cute faces and dresses. But I thought that having all these tiny little doll girls running around might feel a bit creepy to little kids..

So I thought hey! What if I slap some wings on them and make them fly around like fairies?? And to make them even less scary, I can make them look like familiar bugs that kids like! Lady bug, butterfly, bumble bee, dragon fly... and then I thiiiink I designed Ballora after.? Or maybe Ballora being based on a butterfly was what first inspired me.?

Either way- Ballora is based on a Blue Morpho butterfly! Very pretty :}}

@bunny-coffee

Sorry, I don't take requests! But that's not a bad idea.. 🤔 Maybe someday XD

@astrokea

Awe, thank you!! :DD I'm glad you like what I make!! :}}

@beryl-shade

Jevil and Seam do not reveal their injuries to anyone unless they absolutely have to. And when they do, yeah its only to each other..

Like for example; if Seams eye socket started to hurt and it needed to be looked at/tended to. Seam would only feel comfortable having it tended to by Jevil. But the whole time he'd still be incredibly uncomfortable and would cover it back up as soon as he could..

I'm not sure if I've answered this ask before and forgot to delete it, or if its an old ask that got buried and I never answered it at all-- either way!--

Yeah, Jevil would be pretty spooked by his original counterpart. Because original Jevil is clearly insane.. But he'd also feel kind'a bad for his original.. he's still trapped in a cell..

Seam is definitely envious of his original. He thinks his original got off easy. He doesn't even have shackles. And his stitched mouth doesn't seem to bother him..

My Goner kid arguably has it better than the original. Considering the original is still lost in the void somewhere..

And I intended for Grillby to encounter another version of him. Maybe not the original, but at least another version. He saw his other self with his daughter.. it was really hard for him..

@luna-purple454 @elegysonnet (Post in question)

Sorry for the late reply you three! I was intending to draw a comic for this but I never got around to it.. haha,, <:D ..anyways-

What ends up happening is Papyrus offers to help. Seam is scared out of his mind but he ends up taking Papyrus' offer.

Papyrus picks up Jevil and helps Seam stand up. They make their way out of the dying forest, stepping over fallen trees and branches. All the while Papyrus is talking to Seam. "What's your name? Where are you from?" Seam tells him their names but that's about all he can manage to say through his trembling..

All the while they're walking something just.. feels really off. Why are all the trees and grass dead? Why is it so warm around here? Seam is sure he's seen this place before in other AUs. Isn't there supposed to be snow on the ground?

Eventually they make their way into snowdin. Seam was so stressed that he didn't really take the time to scan his surroundings. Although he did notice that they were walking through snow now. They get to Papyrus' house and walk inside.

The house is lit by candles, and all the lights are off. Seam and Jevil are put on the couch, Papyrus goes into the kitchen to make some soup for them to eat.

This when things takes a horrifying turn. While anxiously waiting for Jevil to wake up, Seam looks out the window..

The snow outside isn't like a blanket of snow. Rather its gathered in big piles. The big lumps of wispy snow cover the ground in front of the houses, but don't go into the forest and it isn't on any of the trees..

And then he notices.. there's children's shoes and coats buried in the.. "snow"..

Seam is a darkener, so he does not turn to dust when he dies. But he knows that AU's that have a snowdin town in it.. the monster's there turn to dust when they die.

There are mountains of bodies outside. What happened here? Who killed all those people? Thats why there's no power to the house isn't it? That's why its so warm, that's why all the trees are dead. The people who man the core are all dead. Everyone in this AU is dead, everything is dead. But who killed them? What happened?

..Did Papyrus....?

Horror washes over Seam. It was Papyrus wasn't it. He killed all those people. And now Seam is in Papyrus' house. He doesn't have the strength to get up, he cant run- he cant escape-

Its in that moment of pure dread.. that Jevil started to stir, and Papyrus walked back in..

[wrotelovelytears]

Down by the bay...

Where the astrological post growwww

𓆉 Scorpios are pretty non confrontational. It's not that they can't fight they rather just not fight, however if someone does start something with them they will be the one to finish.

𓆉 Honestly all Fixed signs are like that, rather just not fight and if need be, end it.

𓆉 Cardinal signs rather mitigate fights than be involved, probably won't finish or start but definitely come up with solutions to the current conflict

𓆉 That theory about attracting what you need is true.

𓃥 To expand on it, the sign attracted helps you in the house it falls in your natal chart)

With Geminis I learned to communicate my needs in romantic relationships and my home better (Gemini 4th/5th)

𓃥 With Sags I learned to be more spontaneous with work and friendships/ also took classes in regards to the things that interest me (Sag 10th/11th)

𓃥 With Scorpios I learned to explore my psyche more and take control of the image of me seen by others (Scorpio 9th/10th) etc etc

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𓆉 People will always be biased toward their own sign/modality/Dom planet. That's just something that needs to be acknowledged in Astro spheres. No one is truly unbiased, that's literal bs. Venusians gonna defend themselves because that's what they are. Cardinal doms gonna talk about their benefits because that's what they know. Leo's aren't going to downplay themselves because... Well they don't wanna talk down on themselves.

𓆉 On that last point they also more willing to defend the sign/modality/planet more like their own. Again very human and very real. Air and Fire signs defend each other the same way Water and Earth do. Martians and Plutonians defend each other like Jupiterians and Neptunians. Fixed would defend Cardinal before Mutable and Mutable the same.

𓆉 The sign that holds you chart ruler might be the one you get along with/defend the most

𓃥 For me it's Cap- I defend and frankly adore them

𓆉 People can see certain behaviors linked to the sign in you as well.

𓃥 I care a lot about rules and regulations despite being pretty flowy about life.

𓆉 You might find the house it's naturally correlated with, very important to life.

𓃥 10th house themes are very important in my life. It is one of my focal points and brings a lot of change when I develop the sign/planets/themes there.

𓆉 Idk why but Aquarius seems linked to Nuerodivergence. Not in a quirky "I'm different way" but like a mentally on a different plane of existence.

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𓆉 Venus-Mars positive aspects tend to have more balanced masculine and feminine energies. They don't tend to prefer one over the other, and have the ability to easily switch to one if it's needed.

𓆉 I said this like forever ago but I'm sure now that your shadow side is representative of the opposite of your Sun sign.

𓃥 Example Scorpio Sun shadow is Taurus Sun behavior

𓆉 If you also engage in tarot your Dominant planet and element can be linked to a Major Arcana that typically represents you.

𓃥 I almost always get The Empress (Venus) and The High Priestess (Water Dom). Yes that means I also see Death (Scorpio Venus) a lot when using cards.

𓆉 On that last note you can also see houses you have stelliums in a lot in tarot as well.

𓃥 10th house sees The Devil a lot.

𓃥 1st house sees The Emperor

𓆉 Your 6th house is the indicator of the places/ career you actually end up in regardless of your North Node or 10th house.

𓃥 My dad is a 6th house Pisces and works in a hospital.

𓃥 I'm a 6th house Leo and work with children

𓆉 Older Capricorns tend to be more tech savvy than older Aquarians. Capricorns keep up with trends

𓆉 Older Aquarians the ones you hear those wild YouTube/Facebook conspiracies from

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𓆉 Since Scorpio is a water sign, it's subjected to the same amount of projection as Pisces. (That goes for Cancer as well). A lot of Scorpio's projection revolve around power and sexuality. People constantly say Scorpios are power hungry and sexual beings when in reality we prefer to not be placed in positions of power and have more asexual tendencies.

𓆉 With Pisces it's people projecting innocence and victim hood on to them. It's them not being seen as adults (when grown), capable (when able) and strong. This leads to a double edged sword where Pisces arent allowed to make their own choices and at some point don't want to due to constant belittling of the ones they make.

𓆉 With Cancer yes people tend to put the complexes they have with their caregivers/family on them. Due to constantly being given the role of care giver, these people face the same double edged sword Pisces does. They wish to care for others (and do so) but it's almost never on their own accord (placed upon them). In turn they don't receive the care they need (turns to resentment) and express their frustrations.

𓆉 With all that being said the houses you can find the water signs in your chart are where you face those projections.

𓃥 6th house Cancer would find these projections in their daily life, work place and health care settings

𓃥 10th house Scorpio would find the general public, older adults, and their bosses placing these projections on them

𓃥 4th house Pisces would find their family/close friends, home and home land (people from there as well) placing the projections on them

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𓆉 Having harsh Mars aspects to your Aphrodite (1388) may result in people belittling your femininity, if you present/align with it, or straight up misgendering you on purpose.

𓆉 Having harsh Venus aspects to your Aphrodite may cause you to have a skewed vision of femininity rather it be your own or others. May also find it hard to be comfortable with femininity until energy is worked with.

𓆉 Anytime something has a lot of aspects (harsh and easy) look to the opposite house that holds it for keys to work with the placement.

𓃥 2nd house Pluto in Scorpio- You would look to 8th house Taurus. The themes of money, pleasure, sharing, esotericism (not just spiritual but physical as well) would be beneficial

(If you learned something new or would just like to support me you can leave a wittle tip via the tip button or one of the links in my masterlist. Kofi: nymphdreams )

[pinksilvace]

A few weeks back, I made a comment to the effect of, "Belos views himself as the single human character in a muppets production." It has since then spiraled into an entire AU in my head that refuses to leave me alone. A few weeks back, I made a comment to the effect of, "Belos views himself as the single human character in a muppets production." It has since then spiraled into an entire AU in my head that refuses to leave me alone.

The basic premise:

Caleb and Evelyn found a weekly children's program ("The Boiling Isles") that features puppets; little Philip is featured as the one human, and since the episodes with him do much better than the ones without, he grows up into the role and eventually becomes a big part of the production staff as well

When Caleb and Evelyn die in an accident, Philip inherits the show

Some of the main (puppet) characters are named Luzura, Willow, Amity, and Augustus (you can see where I'm going with this). Philip would be able to stand these puppets on their own BUT

In promotional materials and interviews, he is ALWAYS asked what it's like to "work with" Luzura/Willow/Amity/Gus. Philip is absolutely INFURIATED by this because they're PUPPETS why can't anybody see that they're PUPPETS don't you care about the STAFF or the ARTISTS or the LIGHTING MANAGERS why does everybody pretend that the PUPPETS are REAL PEOPLE and why does HE have to pretend that the PUPPETS are when he responds??? He's convinced that some of the interviewers genuinely believe that the puppets are alive and tries to patiently explain that, no, they are just puppets. The interviewers always refuse to break the immersion.

Expanded AU thoughts are under the cut.

Caleb and Evelyn meet at an arts college. Evelyn is a film student, and the show's prototype is her capstone project. Caleb offers to bring Philip in as an actor and it sticks. Caleb also helps make some of the first puppets.

Little Philip's identity is protected by 1) the presence of a mask, and 2) the stage name "Belos". The name sticks around for his on-screen appearances.

While sticking around the set, Philip learns a lot about the different areas of production. He especially likes building sets, backdrops, props, and puppets, though he finds the writing process interesting as well. When he's old enough to help out with paperwork, he takes over the logistical side of things because tbh both Caleb and Evelyn are helpless when it comes to that

By the time Philip takes over, he's basically the head supervisor of every single department. His management makes the show's popularity explode

Philip is definitely the best at building and controlling puppets. Every now and then, he makes an extra-large "final boss" sort of puppet that only he is physically capable of controlling, and some of them end up in museums

Philip raises Hunter, but he's sort of the neglectful sort. He's ultra-focused on keeping the show his brother put so much thought, effort, and love into alive, and it makes literally any semblance of life he might have had outside of the show suffer

Similarly to Philip, Hunter grows up on set, but not as an actor. The production staff looks after him. When he's old enough, he also becomes a part of the test audience

The production staff is composed of the Emperor's Coven members in canon; i.e. Darius is in charge of lighting and wires, Raine is the sound director, Eberwolf is the lead puppet master, Hettie is the on-site medic, etc.

Luz and Camila are also a part of the test audience. I'm going to pretend that Philip and Camila are good buds in this AU. Philip inserts Luzura into the show as a character based on Luz

Basically most of the ire that Philip has in this AU is directed toward the puppets because they're not REAL why are THEY getting the GLORY can we PLEASE not pretend that these PUPPETS have thoughts and feelings and personalities???

He also doesn't leave because 1) the aforementioned attachment to something Caleb loved so much, and 2) he's put too much effort into this show already and he knows that no replacement could ever be so proficient at his job

Let's be real, Philip's work ethic is super unsustainable, and it DEFINITELY keeps him from grieving properly

When Hunter reveals that he does not, in fact, want to inherit the company that Philip has built, it's CRUSHING to Philip, who feels like giving it up would be disrespecting Caleb's legacy, unaware that he's staring Caleb's legacy in the face

Ideally Philip's arc (which I have hardly described here) would end with wealthy retirement and him being able to say "goodbye Boiling Isles" and never having to appear alongside those godforsaken puppets ever again

[justsomeoneintoomanyfandoms]

Hello! I apologize in advance for my terrible English 🙈

Could I get a matchup for TokyoDebunker?

(And if possible, if you consider that there is a character from Demon Slayer, Fullmetal Alchemist, My Hero Academia or Mystic Messenger that you think could make a matchup, would you add them too? Although only if you wish! The Tokyo Debunker match in itself is enough ❤️)

Pronouns: she/her

Sexuality: Bi

Zodiac/MBTI: Sagittarius, INTJ

Appearance: Short, curly dark brown hair. Brown skin, freckles on my cheeks, slim body, Latin American features, dark eyes, 53 kg and 5'5" tall.

Personality: Introverted, occasionally moody, although once I gain confidence I can be more relaxed and somewhat playful/childish. My social battery is short-lived, so I like to spend time alone. Would you say I'm like a cat? because I prefer to be the one who gives signs of affection when I have the initiative than to receive them suddenly. Whenever I start a task I commit to finishing it even though I no longer want to continue, I am a little disorganized for some things, but also very organized for others... I don't know, I think it depends on my state of mind how organized I can be. I may be a little lazy too, but I'm not one of those who promise something they can't deliver.

Likes and dislikes: I like tranquility, spending time at home, desserts, reading romantic novels, horror/thriller/suspense/romantic comedies/musicals. I also like to give gifts to my loved ones and spend quality time with them. I also enjoy visual novels and interactive stories. Skin and hair care, videos of people putting on/removing makeup and trying on clothes. I don't like insects, noisy places, disloyal people (I value loyalty a lot!) and liars. Alcohol and other substances are a definite no.

Hobbies: True crime shows, reading, listening to music, watching anime, board games.

Thank you very much in advance and I will cross my fingers hoping and wishing that you accept my request 🤞🏼🙈, kisses and hugs ❤️

Hi Anon! Thank you for your request! Sorry it took a while. I hope you like your matchups!

In Tokyo Debunker, I match you with...

Luca is surprisingly, a really good match for you considering you can be moody. He has mood swings at times as well but he’s usually able to keep a level head and is more than happy to help when you’re in any kind of mood.

Completely understanding when it comes to you preferring to initiate affection. He would never cross your boundaries so whenever you feel like affection, just let him know.

Definitely has a bit of a hidden sweet tooth. He likes desserts but doesn’t have them a whole lot so it’s nice getting to go on café dates with you so he can try all of your favourites.

Tranquillity is a big thing for Luca. He doesn’t get a lot of downtime between his study and his research into demons so when he does get a break, he enjoys relaxing somewhere quiet with you.

In the same vein, he really enjoys reading for leisure instead of for study. Please give him lots of recommendations! He’s always looking to expand his reading horizons.

In Demon Slayer, I match you with...

You and Giyu are a good combination of introverted and playful. It may not seem like it to strangers, but he’s got a light side to him when he’s around people he trusts.

When you’re in a more childish mood, Giyu can feel a bit lost as to how to interact with you. He’s not great with kids in general but he’ll learn to loosen up when you embrace your childish side.

Will get rid of any insects for you. Giyu’s not particularly scared of bugs but he’s happy to have them out of his home, especially if it makes you more comfortable.

Much like Luca, Giyu enjoys tranquillity. Usually that means isolating himself but as long as you don’t mind his quiet presence, he’ll happily spend his downtime in companionable silence with you.

This man is a rom-com lover at heart, he just doesn’t know it yet. Please introduce him to your favourite romantic novels and watch his face light up when he’s talking about the latest scandal he’s reading about.

In Fullmetal Alchemist, I match you with...

For Riza to be in a relationship, both parties have to be completely committed to each other. There’s no room for anything else in her life considering her line of work.

She’s quite an organised person so it might take her a while to grow accustomed to your disorganisation. But once she comes to terms with the fact that that’s what works for you, she’ll happily let you do your thing.

Riza doesn’t get to spend a lot of time as home but when she does, she loves that you’re there for her. She enjoys being in a safe space with the person she cares about most more than anything.

Much like her need for commitment, there’s no room for liars or disloyal people in her life so she’s glad you hold the same values. You have a very honest and open relationship.

Board game nights are a staple! Whether it’s just you and her or the whole Mustang Gang join in, it’s a fun way for Riza to let her hair down to end the week, no matter how stressful it’s been.

In My Hero Academia, I match you with...

If there’s anyone who understand having a short-lived social battery, it’s Jiro. She enjoys being around her friends but needs her alone time as well.

Completely fine with you preferring to initiate affection. She’s not a super touchy-feely person to being with so it’s all good with her that you’d rather be in control of that aspect of your relationship.

Music is what brought the two of you together. Jiro has a super wide music taste so send her song recommendations and prepare to jam out together when you get the chance.

All of UA is a noisy place, especially when her friends are around so Jiro does what she can to take you on dates to quiet cafes and parks. She enjoys the change of pace as well so it’s a win-win.

I feel like Jiro enjoys watching skin, hair, makeup, and fashion videos as well. There’s something about them that intrigues her even thought they’re so different to what she’s usually into.

In Mystic Messenger, I match you with...

Cat-like you say? Oh, Seven’s all over that! You two are cat buddies through and through. He loves your cat-like tendencies and thinks you’re all the more cute for them.

Much like Riza, Seven has no room in his life for disloyal people and knowing that you feel the same alleviates his fears somewhat. He knows he can count on you to stay loyal to him.

You think you likes spending time at home? You clearly haven’t met Seven. If it were up to him, he’d never leave the house again. He’s got everything he needs there, including you.

A rom-com fiend. Please share your favourites with him, he’ll love every second of it, no matter how cheesy it gets. Just be prepared to have to deal with a sappy Seven for the next few days.

On the other end of the spectrum, he also really likes true crime, especially listening to true crime podcasts. He likes being able to talk about his theories with you when you’re watching, listening to, or reading the latest case together.

[if-loki-was-a-fox]

I just randomly found ur blog and am now OBSESSED with the whole avian!mumbo concept

…….tell me everything there needs to be known abt it please I want to draw little bird boy (even tho my main way of doodlin mumbo is vampire but I WANT BIRD)

(apologies for the ramble I live laugh love moustache man)

(here's the previous avian!mumbo post for anyone curious)

It has taken me far too long to get the chance to respond to this ask and I have been so impatient because adjsaklfhaskghjd someone actually saw and enjoyed my unedited babbling about avian!mumbo :')

anyways I think I already said most of what I have coherent ideas on, and the rest is just nebulous vibes and happiness and fluff and hurt/comfort potential, but! I can share doodles and also reiterate/expand upon stuff I have already said

(putting it below a cut so I can make it soso long)

WING FLAPPIES!! I feel like this would definitely be something he'd appreciate about having wings, because I feel like it would be a more satisfying expression of emotion than like. stomping or bouncing or whatever. He would also totally struggle to control his avian body language, you can read his wings/ears/tail like a book, he's so unused to paying attention to and stifling his bird gestures. (Grian finds this beyond hilarious especially, because he can read Mumbo even better than everyone else being another avian)

His wings are red and black, though I haven't entirely decided if I'm gonna switch which goes where to make it match Grian's wings better. Since Grian is a Scarlet Macaw, Mumbo really ought to be too, but that would look just. so goofy. with his color scheme

AND SPEAKING OF LOOKING GOOFY- his wings look so silly for the first couple weeks. Until the feathers grow in properly, they're just kind of gradually more fluffy. raw chicken. wings. stuck to his back. because that's what baby parrots look like apparently! And then also pin feathers, before finally being pretty feathery bird wings

He also just accidentally passively collects the other members of Boatem's clothes. Grian does this too, but intentionally. Mumbo just does it without realizing and then gets confused about it because he doesn't understand the whole nesting thing, so someone else has to explain it to him

Oh and Mumbo tries to just go about his life without any changes or accommodations for his wings at first, because he doesn't want to ruin his clothes or generally have to change his routines. Grian and the others do not put up with this and persuade him to take proper care of the wings instead (<- this is a constant uphill battle for months)

On a more overarching note, Mumbo initially Does Not Like the wings, because they're just tiny and kind of ugly things that get in the way of his elytra and make him have to get all his shirts edited and they don't really do anything but cause him problems. Then once the wings start getting feathers and stuff and they have to start making preparations for learning to fly, it kind of becomes a bit of a bonding thing that brings Boatem together, with Mumbo starting to get used to them and accept them, and everyone else being able to help out with their care some (preening, stretches and exercises...).

Ultimately (probably sometime around HC 9), Mumbo ends up quite loving his wings in the long run. Once they're fully grown they're actually pretty impressive (since he's so tall they end up being a fair bit larger than Grian's, much to his annoyance) and Mumbo ends up putting a fair bit of effort into their upkeep and keeping them all nice looking (at least, when he's not too busy with other projects). He does still find a bunch of the other avian traits a little embarrassing (nesting, chirping, dietary restrictions, wings giving away his thoughts...) but he gets used to them.

[sea-owl]

I think I remember you saying you were Canadian. How would Violet corral her children in a Bulk Barn?

Who makes the bigger mess?

Not Canadian, my dear. I'm actually from the Midwest of the US, but my home state borders Canada, so maybe that's where it came from.

Had to look up what a Bulk Barn is and it seems like a mixture between Costco or Sam's Club and Whole Foods or Sprouts? Am I close?

I feel like Violet has to get the older siblings to help and pair them off in a buddy system or in teams. She mainly handles Gregory and Hyacinth. Once in a while, Anthony will take the one or both of the younger too, but that's usually his choice. The others can mix and match between themselves. She trusts them just enough to where they can wander on their own. She allows a snack budget for each one. You have so much for the week, so choose wisely.

Part of the reason Violet will let them go pick out snacks for their budget is to one learn how to stay in budget (but lets be real their budget is stupid high), and two she'll have an easier time shopping for the other items they need.

Anthony gets some basic snacks like some chips, and pop. Maybe some candy. He bought Chai once which threw everyone off and he refused to explain it.

A lot of Benedict snacks are stuff he can drink. When he's working on his art he doesn't want his paint covered hands to touch what he's consuming. O course this had led to more than one occasion led to Benedict accidentally sticking his brushes in his drinking mug or accidentally taking a sip of paint thinner. He really needs to learn to keep his drinking cup and paint cleaner cups separate.

Colin has the widest selection when it comes to his snacks. He wants to try everything in the store at least once. Of course he has his favorites and reliable when he doesn't like his new snack of the week. One good old reliable is chocolate eclairs.

Daphne's snacks are often what I call hospitality snacks. You know those small things you have around the house like trail mix, some cookies, stuff you can throw in a bowl or put on a platter for guests to much off of. She has definitely gotten stuff to make her own charcuterie board before.

Eloise's snacks lean more toward "brain foods." Things like nuts and berries. She says she has to keep her mind healthy if she plans to expand it. She's a sucker for trail mix.

Francesca's snacks like Benedict's are mostly stuff she can drink so it doesn't get too much in the way when she practices piano. She does get some things she can munch on like cookies or some sort of candy she likes.

The mess happens when Gregory and Hyacinth both want the same snack and end up getting in a fight over it because obviously only to them, they can't both get it that week.

[meenawrites]

Trudy Parenting Spider

SOOOOO here are some random thoughts I had about Trudy figuring out parenting and she's going to go about it!

I 100% think that she just barely sees a tiny Spider outside, somehow having breached the airlock on his own. His little cheeks are puffed out and he's holding his breath and she realizes that this kid is going to be an absolute menace to her heart and his own safety. So when he's finally allowed to go outside because he can fit into an exopack, she fashions a kiddy leash or something for him because she just knows if she doesn't watch him for a second he'll go bounding into some cranny or another and get himself eaten by a palulukan or something. The Sully kids think the leash is hilarious but Jake having Lo'ak as a rascal and Kiri who just randomly wanders off something totally gets it and applauds her decision. He can't get Neytiri to agree to one for the kids though. 

Trudy couldn't help but coddle the kid in Spanish when he was a kid so he used to go around as a toddler mixing up English and Spanish as a toddler, then eventually English, Spanish, and Na'vi. As soon as she decides she whole-heartedly taking this kid as her responsibility, she decides to teach him Spanish. Spanish becomes a language that connects just the two of them and it creates a tight bond between the two. Spider thinks Spanish curses are funnier than English ones so he'll randomly curse in Spanish under his breath and Norm will be like "I don't know what that means, but I know it isn't appropriate, young man!"

I think Trudy's go-to when addressing Spider is "Kiddo",  followed closely by "Bud" or "Buddy", "Rascal". I have to assume she uses some Spanish terms of endearment as well, but I'm not as well versed in those seeing as I'm not Hispanic (though I do get looked up and down and immediately get spoken to in Spanish most of the time so I'm flattered). I think she'd try to stay away from terms like mijo (my son) for a bit because she's unsure whether she should be putting some that distance between them or simply doesn't want to encroach on his feelings about his mom, but at some point when he's older it kind of slips out and Spider almost cries (he totally does and Trudy does too).

I think she would probably sit and watch Grace's video logs with him or with him and Kiri when she joined in because Spider's a voracious learner and he loves watching Grace talk about the biology of Pandora and its interconnectedness. Trudy learns a lot about Pandora in this way as well, and she misses Grace a lot while she's watching them. 

Like I think I said in a previous post, I think she definitely helps Spider prank the scientists here and there and they both run away from the aftermath laughing maniacally. 

Once she realizes how much Spider wants his height to be measured like the Sully kids, she totally carves a pole out of some fallen wood and sets it up in the room that they share and starts marking his height and cooking him whatever he wants when she sees he's grown taller. 

I imagine they share a room mostly because there probably aren't that many rooms to go around and when Spider was little and after the McCoskers, she wasn't okay with leaving him alone at night and neither was he okay with being alone. I think eventually, if the construct of the base allows for it, they would have like knocked a wall down or something and expanded the room for both of them, maybe drawn a curtain in the middle for some semblance of privacy. 

In my characterization of Spider (which I revealed in the latest installment of my Spider Chronicles fic) Spider is a great artist and he's been drawing since he was little so Trudy definitely has like the biggest collection of Spider's drawings and keeps his old sketchbooks and stuff. She notices that a consistent topic of his drawings is Kiri and she only gets portrayed more and more beautifully as he gets better, and she thinks it's hilariously adorable. She worries a bit for him and his love for the Na'vi girl with him being human and all, but at the moment they're too young for it to matter and frankly she's not quite sure what to do about it, so she just teases him about it every now and then. 

Trudy would definitely teach Spider how to pilot her kestrel, and one of his favorite activities with her since he was little was flying with her. He becomes better than Norm at piloting eventually which he doesn't cease to remind him. 

I think Trudy knows what it's like as a kid to not really get much physical affection from your parents and being touch-starved and she recognizes the signs in Spider almost immediately. It's a lot worse after the McCoskers who didn't even speak to him, let alone hug him, so she starts communicating to him as best (and awkwardly) as she can that it's okay to ask for hugs or to hold her hand, or just generally ask for anything he needs from her. He doesn't really go for it at first and never initiates anything because he doesn't want to be a burden so she changes tactics and just kind of demands physical affection from him like, "hold my hand" or "Spider, I need a hug" , and he slowly gets more comfortable with just grabbing her arm or holding his arms out for a hug or just generally wanting to be held. 

I think Trudy's always worried whether she's doing a good job for this kid or if she's missing something vital so she does watch how Neytiri and some other Omaticaya parents interact and handle their kids and like actually takes notes. Neytiri's really unnerved by her less than subtle staring until she sees her notes one day or something and is endeared. She tells her she can just ask her whatever questions she has in like a very tsundere way. 

If you guys have any ideas or asks please let me know! I finally figured out how to add the ask me questions button online so hopefully that's there for you guys.

[seth-shitposts]

How do you come up with titles for your fics? Because especially The Aphelion Waltz is such an awesome title!

Thank you!!!

Naming works is something is not too difficult for me at least a good 80% of the time? Maybe more.

I usually go with either whatever the vocal point of the fic is or something having to do with whatever inspired the piece in the first place. Sometimes its just blatantly what the fic is about, other times it's a song lyric, sometimes a concept/word with specific definition. Mmm symbolism as well!

I have a few suggestions that may help, but we've never greatly struggled with naming pieces (don't get me wrong, there's been quite a few that have kicked us in the ass, but in general this is an area we do somewhat well in). But I believe that these listed below have definitely been what helped us build this skill.

Go through Story Name Generators and write a story based off of something that calls your attention. I think that this may help kickstart sorta a reverse learning thing. By doing it in reverse, it may help you in figuring it our the otherway around.

Have confidence in names you pick. Even if you don't think it's good, go with it anyway. Some of my favorite names for pieces from other writers have been titles that they didn't particularly have full confidence in. Naming a piece is a skill that gets better in time and practice.

Alex and Haimo are 100% under the impression that reading poetry improves this skill. And I don't have any reason to doubt them, so I say go for it. Maybe even write some poetry yourself. You don't have to be the next Robert Frost or Emily Dickenson, you just have to be the next you and thats a process. A beautiful one :) you got this!

Smush words and concepts together. Take two or three things from completely different fields and put em together.

For pieces you've put together, answer some questions like this: What is this about? Who is in it? What is the plot? What is moving the plot forward? What conflict is there? What inspired this piece? What have I used continously through this work? What motivated me to start and keep at this piece? What is motivating the character(s)? What ties these characters together? How does the plot affect the character(s)? [We've found that sometimes our title can be found in these questions, so maybe it'll be of help to you?)

If it takes you awhile, that's okay. If it's still frustrating, that's okay. This is a skill, a skill takes time and constant nurturing to build. People build skills at different rates from each other. Doesn't mean that one person is better or worse at that skill than another, it just means that they learn these skills differently and have differing skill sets. Just keep working on building that skill. Because I believe in you, friend :)

I am going to be proud of The Aphelion Waltz until I die. It took me a few days to come up with it after Seth and I officially started compling notes for it.

For The Aphelion Waltz, Aphelion has actually been a concept I've been wanting to use for months (and to be honest I do plan on using it again for a canonverse fic). For this fic itself, it's idea had been rooted in the enjoyment of instrumental music, and Seth and I knew that we were going to build the fic up around a theme that included music, as that is a main vocal point.

The thought of the fic was originally a Hehe-Haha Sebastián made about my enjoyment of listening to orchestra. He said that Kallus was definitely the type to manage to sneak into one of Coruscant's orchestra houses to get away from everything, even if for just a couple of hours. And then added in the thought of Zeb being an aristocrat and is definitely, secretly a huge nerd who will take any chance to info dump about the history or significance of a scholarly thing. So then we just kept going back and forth with ideas until we started writing them down. And then expanded upon the notes until we had some rough guesstimate of a plot.

I needed us to have a name so we could stop kriffing referring to it as "That AU" or "The Orchestra AU". I kept thinking on it for a few days. At one point I had been listening to one of my personal favourite songs (that I relate quite a bit to Kallus with actually) called The Forsaken Waltz by Joshua Kyan Aalampour. Something that I do frequently, as Alex, is that I listen to Orchestra songs and imagine the story that is being told or a story that would follow along with it. I picture Kallus a lot in this song when I listen to it. And I really love the triple time pace of a Waltz, as the definition of a Waltz is a dance performed by a couple in triple time. With this song I loved how it's pacing sped up or eased back into a lull only to feel as if the protagonist had to keep going again. And at this point, Seth and I had created quite a good chunk of the story and to me, I thought that we could very much fit it into what the written version of a Waltz might be like, with the pacing that that had been planned thus far for Kallus and Zeb. So then all that was left was to name the Waltz. If this Waltz of a story had a name, what do I think it would be? Since much of the story and of Kallus’s life thus far had taken place so far away from the stars, that they were unobtainable, and that Kallus would very much view Zeb as the same; a rare and precious thing that would remain out of his reach, would Starlight Waltz work? And I very much could have gone with that, but I wasn't satisfied. So I wrecked my mind a little more, pulling for more astronomy references and words for how the world worked and the beauty continously seen in it so often that we name them. But then I remembered that Aphelion is something that I was shelving. I still plan on using it for the idea I had intended to attach it to, but I decided to give it a try. And thus, the creation of The Aphelion Waltz.

The Aphelion Waltz

Aphelion: an astronomical term referring to the point in orbit of which an object is at its furthest from the sun.

Waltz: a dance between a couple performed in triple time.

This is a three word summery of what the story is about, in both the most vaguest and most indepth way possible.

I hope this was of help! If there's anything else we could maybe help with or give possible advice, do feel free to reach out!

-Seth💚 & Alex💙

[spartazia-blog]

Listening vs Obeying

Something I’ve been mulling over since seeing another round of discussion about Penelope and her choices specifically around the Marina and her children and Eloise LW publications is the notion of listening to someone vs obeying them. When we talk to people or provide advice, what is our expectation and goal in doing so? Are we helping and being a sounding board or are we trying to give marching orders? And, at the end of it, do we respect that ultimate decision maker in someone’s life is and should be them?

I ask because a common theme I see pop up is the idea that Pen “had” to resort to Whistledown because “no one listens to her.” But is that true? Did they really just close their ears and go “lalala” when she spoke to them? Or, is it that she was heard but she just wasn’t *obeyed*? And why do so many Penelope stans seem to have this absolute conviction that if she expresses something to someone or gives them advice, she is entitled to unquestioning compliance?

Colin listened to her about Marina loving someone else before him, he just didn’t go along with what she wanted him to do which was be horrified and cast Marina aside. In fact, he quite maturely expresses that it would hypocritical of him to do so given that he also has a past with other women. That’s really cool of him! It shows that he’s a solid and reasonable man who doesn’t judge others against a bar he wouldn’t use for himself.

Eloise listened to Penelope about she concerns (which Penelope was mostly lying about to outright gaslighting Eloise with to keep from getting caught as LW. Not to mention the hypocrisy over lecturing Eloise about going to ‘bad parts of town unchaperoned’ while Penelope was doing the exact same thing), Eloise just decided that her conversations and friendship with Theo along with expanding her mind at the rallies she was attending were worth the risk. Which, again, very cool. No matter how people try to spin Eloise as some selfish asshole, her pushing back against the box the patriarchal society she exists in and wanting to reach beyond the arbitrary barriers of class and gender placed on her is very brave and admirable.

Even Marina listened to Penelope about her objections to the Colin plan but was in desperate straits after Portia (whom the fandom never seems to want to blame for her part in that whole debacle or who does get to be applauded for doing whatever she needs for her children…hmmm…qWHITE interesting that point) locked her away, put the fear of God into her, and tried to sell her to a man who INSPECTED MARINA’S TEETH, so forged ahead. Marina’s choices are definitely murky and unfair to Colin but the idea that she was doing anything for some sort of diabolical and cruel reason and not out of desperation and fear driven by the terrible way society would treat her and, more importantly, her innocent children, is just not borne out by the narrative. And anyone trying to claim otherwise is not someone I can take seriously. Marina’s first choice being her children should be more admired than Portia’s choices but somehow, Marina is a villain while Portia is “complicated and flawed.” I cannot talk about Marina without wanting to wrap her in blankets and protect her from both the fandom and what I fear the show has in store for her. I admit this bias freely.

Penelope is never fully honest with people and then, when they don’t follow her marching orders on how she thinks they should operate, she goes nuclear and takes their choices away from them. Penelope is not the god of the people in her life’s lives. She is not *entitled* to being obeyed (even if you think she is 100% in the right when giving advice, this is still the case). People have their own minds, their own free will, and the right to make their own decisions and mistakes. Penelope needs to learn both to fully be honest and speak up as herself AND to accept that she is not the boss of the people in her life. There is no way she can be a healthy partner in her relationship with Colin (or anyone!) if she operates under the theory that if someone won’t take her advice willingly, she will just force their hand. And her stans need to learn the difference between being listened to and being obeyed.

I think she can. And I think, if her arc is done well, that will be a big point of growth for her. She will learn to use her words and her voice, as herself. She’ll learn to trust the people in her life - because she doesn’t really trust anyone right now - and she’ll learn to see the people in her life are entitled to autonomy. I just hope the fandom can learn the same.

P. S. This is all coming from someone who is a Polin fan desperately hoping their season gives me the growth and story I desire while dreading what I think is actually in store for them so miss me with the “hater” bs I can already sense coming.