#don't be afraid to leave reviews and suggestions!

[warball-boyz]

Imma try some fiction now.

Help... (no idea how many words this is)

Chapter 1: Pre-Game

The crowd was deafening in the way only several tens of thousands of people could be, or possibly several dozen very loud cats right next to your ear as you try to enjoy a nice bit of chicken.

They had already been seated for nearly an hour, and the cheerleaders were getting tired. They could only juggle swords and breathe fire and perform complicated acrobatics for so long, and the crowd was already on their second or third round of watery beer, and wanted to see more violence than the fully-armoured cheerleaders could muster (the full armour came about from a strike regarding an attempt to put them in too-revealing uniforms while still performing the dangerous stunts aforementioned, and the cheerleaders, like most people, liked keeping their body parts attached to the rest of them).

It was all deliberate though, the Managers had planned out the opening ceremonies of every game precisely. Keep the crowd entertained and pull in a few more miscellaneous coins from additional merchandise purchases, and only start the game when the fans were in a near-riotous stage, which made the game all the more entertaining and kept them running to the snack stalls in every pause of the game to sate their now-voracious appetites (being angry in a hot stadium did that to one's caloric intake). It also added to the spectacle of when the teams were introduced. As they would be now.

Trumpets blared and drums pounded in the theme music of the visiting team, the Kasbak Freehold Thunder-Hammers as they ran onto the pitch while the cheerleaders made their ways to the side-lines. The Thunder-Hammer fans —Thammers—roared as if on cue (which they were: a small goblin in the front row in team colours lifted a large sign that said "cheere ye, cheere ye") as their blue-and-white bedecked favourites made two rows and faced the mass of blue that were their fans, and began their as-carefully-as-three-dozen-overmuscled-and-not-quite-enough-brained-men-could-choreograph chant. It featured mostly yelling at the tops of their lungs, pounding their chests, and stomping. The fans repeated the chant barely a millisecond behind the team, creating a rather interesting spectacle, similar to how a parent and child practise saying the same words at the same time but the child is a little behind the beat.

The KFTH slammed their fists into the ground, a very suitable finish for a team comprising mostly of orcs, two trolls, and a half-dozen dwarfs, all of whom see punching the ground as very intimidating. Especially when you leave dints in the turf. The Thammer crowd roared its support, and the team trundled their way to the sidelines, where they partook in copious amounts of swearing at each other and fans while drinking enough fluid to drown a very large fish. That was as much part of the spectacle as the chant was, symbolizing to fans their eagerness to play and to win.

The crowd began to murmur in a terrifying cohesion as the trumpets held a quiet but long note like a hose that wasn't turned fully off. It slowly grew with the drums building up an off-kilter rhythm, culminating in three dis-chords that the crowd shouted along to. These three chords of questionable musical composition (any music teacher could talk at length about how the chromatic progression rife with minor sevenths, minor seconds, and tritones made it an instant failure of any music theory exam) repeated with the crowd's participation as the Markoth City Partizans took to the pitch. The Partizans didn't have a chant that the team performed, but the thirty thousand fans had more than made up for it by forcing a melody and lyrics onto the "Three Chords of Doom" that was their official theme music. It went roughly along the lines of:

"Partizans will not die!

We will kill you!

Death to the opponent!

Kill! Kill! Kill!"

(It cannot be said that the fans had more poetic ability than the players, who at least had the excuse of multiple head injuries)

Instead of a war chant, the Partizans assembled in a square formation at centre field and stomp rhythmically, raising their fists alternatively with each stomp.

Once the fans' homemade chant died into more rabid cheering, the team sent to their side of the pitch, and the officials appeared. They had no fanfare, as no one much liked the officials except the Officials Guild, who ensured they at least got paid regularly. Once the officials dispersed to their places on the pitch, the head referee, in this case a slightly pudgy yet athletic man with the name "Onager" stitched onto his linen doublet, stood officially at centre, with a hands-behind-back-and-legs-slightly-apart stance that all head referees were taught in the Official Official's Handbook provided by the Officials' Guild.

Once Onager was in this stance, the captains of both teams came to meet him. The KFTH had Berhard Pavyn, the Partizans had Loeghr Falhalf. Fanfare continued as Onager held up the Official gold coin to determine who would receive the ball first. He carefully made a show of showing it off to the crowd and captains, despite the fact it was merely the size of a cat's paw print, and then hefted it into the air with lethal amounts of backspin.

"Crown!" Falhalf shouted. As the home-team captain he had the right to choose which side he wanted the coin to show upon landing. The coin didn't listen half the time.

"Shield," Onager said with pomp. "The Thunder-Hammers will choose to receive or kick."

No one in the crowd heard a blessed thing, but helpful eagle-eyed fans in the front rows held up homemade signs with crude crowns and shields on them to indicate to the seething masses above them what was occurring.

Pavyn considered his options. "I think we shall kick," he said after a sufficiently pregnant pause. Signs were lifted, crowd cheered and shouted.

"The Thunder-Hammers shall kick the ball!" Onager bellowed officially. Both captains then made their way to their teams and relayed the pertinent information.

On the KFTH side, the coach, a particularly rotund orc named Khaligorn was ferociously scribbling at his large slate with a chalk.

"We gotsta move fast! The Partz are good at runnin, and we have to get to where they goin faster then they do! And when we gets there, we hits them harder then they hits us!" He began pouting to the surrounding players. "Loustin and Harrok will be at the edges, Pavyn near left, Joggban far right. Golshak, Urrig, and Pagh take centre! I want the trolls taking up the rear in case their runners and blitzers break through! The rest of you know your places! Gayns! Kick and run a boar's leg after!"

Bealdric Gayns nodded with careful emotionlessness, then began muttering as soon as he ran into the pitch and out of Khaligorn's hearing.

"Boar's leg! He's lost it! I'm basically playing a blitzer! Yes I can run and block halfway decent, but be a spare blitzer?! Madness I say! This has to be a false play to make me look intimidating and lead their runner into Loustin and Joggban. It's the only way!"

By the end of this short monologue Bealdric was at his position, roughly twenty years behind centre, where Onager officially handed him the official game ball, and stood with his official stance a few feet away, whistle in his lips ready to blow the official start of the game.

Bealdric lined up his kick, gauging the weight of the ball and tried to see where the Partizans had placed their receiver/runner. He also tried to calculate where the boar's leg run would take him, and specifically which of the Partizans' ogre blockers he would be concussed by in the next half-minute.

He steadied himself.

He released the ball gently while taking a soft jump forward, his right leg starting it's pendulous swing.

He connected with the ball.

Onager blew his whistle with all the officially he could push from his lungs.

The ball arced at a perfect 62 degree angle over centre.

The game had begun

[choerypetal]

Hide and Seek / Homelander

(pt 2. of Meet and Greet)

summary ; In part two of the meet and greet, Homelander's obsession reaches new heights, leaving him unsatisfied at his core and willing to do anything to make you his.

!! read part one first! ; !!

ps; english isn't my first language so i apologize for any grammar mistakes, xo' (as it will be eventually corrected if needed)

tag list; @private-eye-on-you ; @lins-shenanigans ; @horrorxgorewhore @siredtom ; @certain-tragedies ; @hotchners-wifey ; @naelis-open-sea

enjoy xo'

Homelander's comment, 'You look lovely in the costume,' lingered in your mind for a week. You couldn't escape his presence. His silhouette, his maddeningly perfect face seemed to follow you everywhere—from your usual coffee shop to the special limited editions of The Vought, and even as you continued watching the show for longer periods of time. From Deep's special cupcakes to the coffee most loved by Homelander, his influence was everywhere, not just keeping the city alive but himself as well.

Although you didn't realize it, Homelander had become just as obsessed with you as he was with seeing his own face on the cup you were holding. From a distance, he watched your every move—the way your plump lips touched the cup, how you drank your coffee, and even how you covered his image with your hand. Despite finding your behavior an offense, he knew he’d eventually have to tease about it. The sadistic man that he was, wasn’t afraid to even acknowledge it. Especially during their weekly Seven meetings. 

"So, I suggest we review some new recruits," Ashley said, her nervousness palpable. She wanted to please not only the public but, most importantly, Homelander. This was no easy task given recent events and the current situation. Homelander's obvious boredom showed his lack of interest, and Deep, poor thing, was just as disinterested, staring blankly at the screen and agreeing with whatever Homelander mumbled. However, Deep was secretly relieved not to have any of John’s powers. Especially right now. Because, at that exact moment, it was your face, and your face alone, that occupied his thoughts. Murmuring your name under his breath, he was fortunate not to get caught up in the moment. That of course, when a single cough from Ashley’s mouth was enough to slip his mind elsewhere. 

"You know, Ashley, just pick whoever you think will fit for now. Sign their papers. My brain is going to fucking explode from this hell hole," he said, standing up without even glancing at her. Not even Ashley's whiny complaints about the complications it might cause could stop him. He paused, considering for a moment that she might convince him. "Don't come to me for the next 24 hours," he snapped, his piercing blue eyes conveying a clear threat. When wasn't he a threat, anyway? "Or I'll personally fuck up every single one of you." That was enough to make her quickly nod in response. Poor thing, she only wanted to make him proud. A satisfied grin played on his lips, mirrored by Ashley's, though hers was a little more nervous. His, however, was genuine. 

You, on the other hand, had been fortunate enough not to see Homelander's face for a while. From the bookstore you frequented to the coffee shop, his presence seemed to pervade your life. Your mother didn’t help either, as she insisted on framing a picture of you with him in the living room—a gesture Homelander found endearing. On some nights, he would see you through the window, dressed in your pajamas, reading whatever caught your interest, with that picture always in the background. Unlike Homelander, it haunted your dreams.  

Deep down, Homelander struggled to resist the urge to invade your personal space, not wanting to frighten you. However, when he saw your forced smile at the meet and greet, he was reminded that a smile meant nothing to him. To him and you alone. It was your scent that drove him wild. At first, he considered going undercover, posing as one of your father’s coworkers, but he realized it would be futile. Why cover his own shame, when he could let his ego take it over?

So, he waited until sunrise. When he could finally entered your room, imagining you in your shortest pajamas, which hugged your curves so perfectly, he had to bite his bottom lip to control himself. Just by the thought of his fingers sinking into your flesh as you leaned toward him for more...

"Goodbye, Mom!" Your voice echoed in Homelander's mind as he realized he'd been lurking around your house since last night. He had been trying to dismiss, the missed call records provided by Ashley, however, unable to ignore them. Fortunately, he was hidden well enough that you didn’t notice him as you exited the house.

Your hair meticulously washed, your skin fresh with makeup, and that dress. Never in a thousand years, aside from his own enemies, did Homelander think he would become so obsessed with someone. He wanted to chuckle to himself at the irony, knowing he wasn’t being the most subtle superhero. When your gaze shifted toward his hiding spot, he quickly concealed himself behind a tree, exhaling in relief when you shrugged off the feeling of being watched. You then left for work, something Homelander knew all too well. This also meant he could meet your mother, who, after all, was his biggest fan. 

Fortunately, you managed to get through the day without a single client yelling at you. However, what you didn’t expect was an unexpected visit from the man himself. As you approached the door, you overheard some mumbling. Did your mother have a visitor today? 

And then it hit you.

Hearing the all-too-familiar voice say, "Oh, these look lovely," with a genuine smile, you froze in your tracks. Seeing your mother so happy, even more thrilled than a fangirl, like she’d seen god himself. She noticed you immediately. "My dear! Look who came to visit," she exclaimed, taking you into her arms for a hug. Before you could greet the guest, your eyes met his—Homelander, in your own home. 

"No need for theatrics, ma’am," he said with a casual chuckle, hushed by his own hand as he munched on the cookies your mother had made, casually wiping a droplet of milk with his thumb. Your mother giggled and said, "Mother is the name. We don’t have to get formal, right darling?" You blinked twice, hardly believing what you were hearing. Your mother was genuinely making Homelander feel comfortable, right inside your home. Given what you knew from your coworkers and the constant rumors, it was hard not to be creeped out by the thought that he might have done more than just a knock on the door that evening. Yet, you shrugged it off, thinking that perhaps playing the same game he did might be what he wanted after all. Like a cat and a mouse. 

There was a brief pause, then an idea sparked in your mother’s eyes as she looked at John one last time. "Why don’t you stay for dinner? Tonight is roasted chicken and mashed potatoes." How could he refuse? Spending more time with you was just the beginning of his obsession with protecting you and never letting you out of his sight. He smiled, his grin seemingly bigger than before, and nodded. "If Y/N doesn’t mind?" he said, his gaze shifting to you with a more serious expression. You gulped nervously, knowing you couldn’t just say no. "Yes—yes, of course," you stuttered. Oh, how adorable you looked.

“Then, make yourself at home dear.” 

Dinner was only just a few hours from now, with your father now back from work had asked for a personal photo with the Homelander, and a talk John appreciated more. Considering his own father exiling him completely, it was a breath of fresh air for him, especially when he’d be glancing a few times at you, doing whatever you had in mind before the dinner. “My daughter is going to be working for us,” your father would be saying proudly, Homelander could only nod listening actively. “She’d do a great addition I am certain.” his gaze now meeting yours immediately, when you gaze up from your book, he could notice a light shade of pink coming your cheeks. Cherishing it a little too much when your father’s voice then abrupt his mind, “She’s beautiful isn’t she?” he’d said a little too proud. 

She is indeed… Homelander thought to himself that same night. Just by how attentive he was with you. Even if it wasn’t  much of a conversation shared, the glances were enough to please him alone. Which during the dinner, he was not afraid to show. 

Dinner had passed rather quickly, you were glad it did. Considering you listening to whatever nonsense Homelander had to offer to keep your mother so relonctent toward him. Let alone, praise him as a her own god. Boosting an ego, to whom you couldn’t comprehend yourself, and that Homelander was sure to make it seem tonight. 

"Thank you so much for dinner, truly," Homelander said, wiping the corners of his mouth, his eyes never leaving you. Your mother’s gasp was enough to momentarily distract him, and he asked if everything was alright. She quickly assured him it was and invited him to stay until her cake was done baking. Naturally, John didn't decline the offer. "Y/N," your mother called your attention just as you were about to excuse yourself, "how about you give a little tour of the house? I'm sure Homelander would appreciate it." The formality of his name seemed daunting, but John quickly corrected her. "John it is. No need to be formal, now, do we?" A shiver crawled down your spine as your mother’s eyes gleamed with hope, her slender fingers clapping together. "Oh, well, of course! Now, Y/N, make yourself useful and make John feel at home." 

A sigh escaped your lips; there was no way to avoid this, was there? "Yes, of course. Where do you want to start?" Your eyes never left his, feeling yourself getting lost in them, becoming his little mouse to play with. "How about..." he began, his eyes wandering as if he couldn’t be bothered to think. "The bedroom," he finally said. You blinked twice, a third time to fully process his words. "What?" you replied, incredulous. He chuckled, amused by your reaction, and shrugged off the question as if he hadn’t meant it seriously. "Nah, kidding. Lead the way," he said. 

So you did. You felt his shadow hovering over you as you both walked through the house for a little tour. John was no longer hiding his presence, leaning in closer to you. You could feel his breath. By the time you reached your bedroom, the tour was complete, and your mother’s cake would be ready. However, John had something else in mind, and he wasn’t shy about showing it. “And this is the bedroom,” you said nonchalantly, hearing an obvious scoff from him. 

"Funny, isn’t it?" he said, this time his tone serious enough to make your muscles tense. His back was to you as his fingers touched the doorknob, ready to close the door. And he did, pausing momentarily. "Finally, we meet again." His remark made you tilt your head. Meet again? As far as you knew, he had been stalking you all along. But knowing who he was—Homelander, with his omniscience and twisted games—you had no say in the matter. Neither did you, especially after hearing his chuckle. 

“Now why so quiet?” the question was enough to make you unsease. You wanted to tell him, to oppose to him. But you couldn’t he was now yours to torment completely. When he leaned further, scoffing once more by your vulnerability. In that precise moment, Homelander knew he won. 

“Heard you were a good, fuck.” his voice so nonchanltly, a gasp leaving from your mouth as you were unable to speak more than standing right in front of him. How his eyes would wondered around your figure, approaching near to you, his fingers now leaning toward your waist. Gripping by its touch, hungry to fuck you there, in the bed. Raw. 

"Thank you?" you stammered, eager to please him. His grin broadened, fighting not to turn into a frown at your response. He was so satisfied that he gently caressed your cheek with his other finger. "You need me, not just to save you, but to satisfy you." Though your heart was broken, you were a toy Homelander cherished without fear. You were his perfect little toy, as he began to lick his bottom lip, his breath drawing closer, closing the gap between you. "Mine," he growled, his voice hoarse, undeniably hinting at his intentions. He was Homelander, able to do whatever he wanted. And that included you being his. "Got it, little mouse?"

Oh, how he longed to watch you squirm between his legs, begging for more, moaning his name. His persistence knew no bounds; he would do anything—from leaving bite marks to scratches, and even hickeys if necessary. But he couldn't just stand there without having a little fun, right?

"You see," he said, his voice dripping with teasing malice. Disgust welled up in your mouth, but you fought the urge to look away. He loved watching you squirm, the fear in your eyes fueling his twisted envy of every inch of you. "How about we play a little game tonight, hmm?" His thumb brushed gently over your chin, lifting your gaze to meet his.

"W-what game?" you managed to say, breaking your long silence. Even he was momentarily surprised, but your stutter made it worth it. "Hide and seek," he said, pausing for effect. "You hide, and I seek. If I find you, you're mine. Got that?"

You gave a quick nod, followed by a satisfied smile from him. "Good then, I'll start counting. One, two..." You hesitated for a moment, just as his grip shifted from your waist to your arm, preventing you from fleeing your own home. When your eyes met his, they were dark with passion, lust, and a desire to capture his little mouse until its very last breath. "Run..."

Little mouse.”

[trafficblr-confessions]

I think people are getting a little too comfortable toeing the line between constructive criticism and being a hate-watcher.

Between the policing on how tasks should go and the flack the CCs have gotten for the changes of pace in the series, a lot of us have forgotten that the Life Series is NOT just another show like the ones you see on netflix or hulu, and when you publicly spread hate as a viewer you're not poking holes in corporations, but individual people just trying to have fun playing together.

Constructive critism or ideas or suggestions are all fine, but jesus christ, the lashback especially against Gem? The fact that she ended up tweeting about how stressed she felt about the upcoming sessions due to the amount of badmouthing fans have been doing, it makes me sick! This isn't a scripted, rule-abiding production, it's an improv series with a gimick that a bunch of friends play together on. Hell, wasn't it the rule breaking in the first season that made us all crazy for it to begin with?

It's especially disheartening with this being Gem's first full season, it makes me afraid she may not want to join back next time around.

And yes, I know, Gem and everyone else on the server are grown adults, they can manage their media as needed and it's inevitable people don't like their content and/or say hurtful things. The problem lies in when it's the actual viewers, the people following the series. Again, it's not like hate watching a professional production and leaving reviews that reflect it. It's just haunting people playing together to have fun, and quite frankly, it's dehumanizing. Recieving hate from just anyone is one thing, but receiving hate from regular fans? How do some of y'all genuinely not see how harmful that is?

If you don't like how the series is going, click off. Have mean shit to say about the people in it? Either share it in closed groups or not at all, not places where you Know the CCs can see it! It's different when you're on a largely fandom dominated space such as tumblr or discord, but going on more open platforms such as twitter and even reddit on some degree?

This isn't an issue with constructive criticism. This is an issue with borderline bullying the CCs because the series isn't going how certain fans want it to.

.

[thenightfolknetwork]

HELLO!!!!! GAVE ADVERTISMENT MOONS AGO!! VERY VERY GOOD FOR BUSINESS!!! SO MANY HANDS!!! SO MUCH M O N I E S!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ££££££££€€€€€€

But... not all sunshine and roses...

HANDS SOLD GREAT!! GREAT AND FAST!!! HAPPY CUSTOMERS GALORE!!!!! UNTIL... Dolores.

DOLORES!!!!!!!!!!

I KNOW YOU READ THESE DOLORES!!!!!

EVIL VILE DOLORES!!! YELLS AT CUSTOMERS DOLORES!!! EATS THE MERCHANDISE WITHOUT PAY DOLORES!!!!!

CONTACTED LOCAL WITCHES FOR BANISHMENT RUNES!! BEGGED LOCAL WIZARD FOR NASTY CURSES!!! WEPT TO THE INDEPENDANT MERCHANT'S GUILD OF THE UNITED KINGDOM BUT NO!!! NOTHING!!!

She is still here!!!

AT WIT'S END!! OLD FISHMARKET CLOSE NOT JUST BUSINESS!! ITS HOME!!! LEAVE MY HOME DOLORES!!!

CUSTOMERS SUFFER!! MERCHANDISE SUFFER!! I SUFFER!!!! THE LAW TURNS BLIND EYES TO DOLORES!!! I FEEL...

helpless

Please!! How to banish nasty not-customer!!! HOW TO BANISH THE SCOURGE OF MY YELP REVIEW PAGE

Yes, I remember your advert. Vividly. I'm pleased to hear the investment paid off and that you saw a satisfying response.

I am so sorry this despicable person is causing you so much trouble. You are well within your rights as a business-owner to refuse to serve anyone creating such a hostile working environment - not to mention someone who is repeatedly stealing/eating your stock.

I am rather struck, however, at how ineffective your efforts have been thus far. She appears to possess an astonishing degree of power if she is able to resist banishment, curses, and the full might of the Independent Merchant's Guild.

This leads me to wonder what precisely is the true nature of this "Dolores" person. Reader, I'm afraid you may be dealing with a rather more powerful entity than you may initially have understood.

I want to be clear before I continue that the Nightfolk Network has a zero-tolerance policy for any kind of bigotry or hatred. I will not tolerate any anti-infernal comments on this post, or any suggestion that anything I'm about to say is true of extra-planar individuals in a general sense.

However, a reasonable assessment of the situation suggests that Dolores is drawing on powers beyond this world to enforce her presence in your shop. She may well be feeding on your distress and anger, maintaining a form she knows will be effective in causing the kind of response she desires.

I'm afraid there is no easy way of handling such a powerful entity. You will need to gather supplies and allies - from what you've told me, you'll need at least one Ancestral Weapon of Unsuspected Power, a handful of Ominous Rocks and at least one Magic User On The Cusp Of Being Overtaken By Their Own Powers. If you can contrive to make yourself a Chosen One, all the better - your local wizard should be able to knock up a decent prophecy to tick the necessary boxes.

Defeating the despicable Dolores will take a great deal of time and effort. But I truly believe that, with enough dedication and hard work, you'll be able to see it through.

And if dedication and hard work don't help, you can always pick up a bit of Power of Friendship to daub on the doorframe. That should do the trick.

[For more creaturely advice, check out Monstrous Agonies on your podcast platform of choice, or visit monstrousproductions.org for more info]

[astoundingbeyondbelief]

Kaiju Week in Review (February 18-24, 2024)

Godzilla Rivals: Mothra vs. M.O.G.U.E.R.A. begins with a standout fight between Mothra and Ebirah. From there, however, the Queen of the Monsters spends most of the story on the sidelines, with a brawl involving Mechagodzilla, Garuda, Jet Jaguar, and M.O.G.U.E.R.A. over the fate of her egg taking center stage. A mech fight on that scale is unusual for a Godzilla comic, and despite the misleading title, it's a decent issue. Writer Johnny Parker II sat down for a lengthy interview with Kevin Derendorf and Raf Enshohma this week; I haven't had time to listen to the whole thing, but I do know he talks about his valiant efforts to put Medical Jet Jaguar from Godzilla Island in the comic.

Justice League vs. Godzilla vs. Kong #5 also released this week. Afraid it didn't leave much of an impression on me; the book is juggling a lot of narrative threads now, and I don't see how it wraps them all up satisfactorily with just two issues left. I would've liked to see a more focused cast (and not just because it takes forever to list all the DC characters on Wikizilla each issue, haha). They also finally mention Monarch in this issue, which only makes the absence of the Monsterverse's human characters more conspicious.

Between Dune: Part Two and Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire, March was already going to be a great month at the movies for giant monster fans, but they'll now be joined by an anime classic: The End of Evangelion. GKIDS is bringing it to North American theaters on March 17 and 20 (a Sunday and a Wednesday, respectively). All showings will be in Japanese with English subtitles. This is not, as some reporting has suggested, the first time the film has ever played in the region—I found a Facebook event page for a 2019 screening in Omaha, for instance—but it is certainly the first major release. Be forewarned that if you haven't seen Neon Genesis Evangelion, you'll be confused out of your mind, as the film serves as an alternate ending for the final two episodes. But you've got time to get caught up.

Like many a Godzilla movie before it, Godzilla x Kong is leaking like a sieve, with a number of alleged screenshots of the Titans now making the rounds online. I normally wouldn't mention such things in this column, but they show a couple of characters who haven't been officially confirmed to be in the movie yet. So here's a warning to be on your guard if you're spoiler-shy.

[ghulehthezombiequeen]

little sunshine. - rats!

cardinal copia x sister of sin!reader part 4.

masterlist. / little sunshine masterlist.

tag list: @gothicwonderlust, @siouxbauhaus, @millerthats (IDK WHY IT WOULDNT TAG ON PC IM SORRY), @jaymechaos

a/n: part four!!!! and there's rats!!! also please keep in mind that while I'm okay with writing slight suggestion, I am not comfortable writing smut. sorry!

warnings/things to note: female reader, semi-autistic Copia, more suggestive towards the end so please be 15+!

enjoy <3

word count: 2,774

"Ew, you said you were spending the night with who?!" your roommate Sister Leah asked with a grimace as you paced around your side of the room and started packing a duffel bag.

"Cardinal Copia. I told you, like, a thousand times already." You rolled your eyes.

"Girl. Don't think about going out with him. You're way out of his league. You deserve better than a stinky rat man!" Leah tried to talk you out of it, but you persisted. "Oh, come on. He's not that bad, actually! I'm just going over to review a couple of things and see if the rat rumor is true or not!"

Leah rolled her eyes. "Alright, whatever. Just be careful, yeah? Come straight back the second he touches you weirdly." she shriveled at the thought of her getting touched by him. You lightly smacked her knee.

"Don't be like that. Alright, I'm off! I'll see you tomorrow!" "Okay, be safe! Love you, bitch!" Leah called as you closed the door.

You hummed as you walked down the now-empty halls, greeting a few ghouls passing by on patrol. At exactly 8 o'clock, you knocked on his door.

You waited a few seconds, wondering if he was even inside before you heard him cursing in Italian as he shuffled about in there.

"Helloooo? Cardi? Did you lose a battle with the rats?" you called, teasing him. You heard him stutter and sigh before opening the door. "Ah! So- er.. Sister.. uh.. hi."

"Hi.~" you replied in a sweet tone, watching his face turn red. A few seconds pass with him just staring at you before you spoke up. "Are.. you going to let me in..?"

"Huh? Oh! O-Of course, come in, come in.." he opened the door wider for you to enter. One of the cages was open and a mischief of rats were squeaking and crawling around the floor. "Agh. Stupid thing- d-don't mind the mess, they were... um.. playing."

"Playing?" you chuckled, exploring his room for a bit before setting your bag down on the one side of his bed that wasn't cluttered. You noticed his desk was littered with papers from... the vet? Were these all for his rats?

"So, wait.. how many rats do you have?"

"Erm... I.. I don't even know. They, uh... they like to reproduce... a lot." he chuckled nervously, hiding his face in embarrassment afterward. "Eh... y-you can leave if you want, this is- this is really embarrassing, I know.."

You felt bad that he was now self-conscious about his pet rats. So you tried to cheer him up with a laugh. "No, no, it's okay! It's just their natural instinct, don't be embarrassed!"

You walked over to him and pulled his hands away from his face, chuckling softly as he started mumbling. "Oh no, you... you don't understand, Sister.." His face turned redder as your hands pried his away from his face, staring into your beautifully colored eyes.

"My rats... they're- they're my babies. I-I love every single one of them, e-especially the newborns. They are almost like my own children!" Copia was always afraid to bring up his rats, but you seemed to be okay with it. That brought at least some comfort and relief to him.

Oh, this guy was odd.

But you didn't care. In fact, you loved his quirkiness. "You know, I always wanted a pet rat. I think they're adorable. But I was always busy with life and stuff here at the ministry, so I could never take care of any sort of pet."

His eyes widened. "O-Oh, y-you do?"

You nodded. "Can I meet a few of them?"

Copia's face brightened, and you could tell how much he was relieved to hear that you were not only fine with the rats, but actually loved them yourself. "Of course you can! They're… um… all over the room," Copia looked down in embarrassment, there were some of the little rat babies running around. "I'm so sorry, this is so embarrassing…" Copia kept his head down as you chuckled at him.

You watched with a small smile as he started scurrying around his room and trying to collect as many rats as he could. "Oof.. B-Biscotti, amore mio, please come here.." he said towards a light tan colored rat, who scampered away from him which made him give up with a sigh.

Once a majority of the rats were on his shoulders and arms he came up towards you. "Here… I got them all, I think."

You noticed how cute the rat babies were on Copia's shoulders, they were looking at you curiously, their tiny sharp teeth showing. "Do you want to hold one?" Copia smiled, offering you a small white rat. "I'm sorry if they're… a little dirty."

"Aww!" you crooned in a higher-pitch voice, scooping the furry rodent into your hands and stroking its head. In return, the rat sniffed your thumb before nibbling on it gently to show its affection. "Hello, friend! She's so cute!! What's her name?"

Copia laughed and smiled. "I'm happy you aren't scared! H-Her name is Poof, she's only three weeks old. I-I call her Poof because one minute she's on my bed, a-and the next she's poof, gone." Copia chuckled. He was relieved you loved the rat as much as you seemed to.

"Poof? Well, that's very original of you." You chuckled playfully. Copia nodded sheepishly. "I- I've never been good at naming them. B-But anyway, Poof is a very playful and loving one. S-She'll try to climb up your shirt and lay near your neck."

As he spoke those words, Poof started to crawl under your habit sleeve and up your arm, her head now nuzzling against your neck. You giggled as you gently pulled her out of your clothing and perched her onto your shoulder. "She's a darling."

Copia chuckled a bit as well. "Oh, Poof.. you are something else, no?" he said to the rat as he picked her up and placed her in her cage, along with the rest of her rat siblings.

"Do you let them out often?" you wondered aloud, sitting on the edge of his bed and smoothing the winkles away from the blanket with your hand.

Copia nodded in response, "I usually let them out after I pick up their litter. It gives them time to run and have fun." He finished putting all the last of the rats back in their cage and then put his hand on the cage to close it. "Ah." you nodded.

He looked up at you. "I'm surprised you aren't disgusted by them; I've never met anyone else who isn't scared of them." Copia was still surprised because you handled Poof quite well, it wasn't often Copia met someone that was as comfortable with them as him.

You shrugged in response. "What's there to be scared about? I mean sure, wild ones might carry every disease known to mankind, but if they're pets, I'm okay with them." "Anyway..." You started to lie down on the bed, propping yourself up with your elbows. You were about to say something when a bright pink poster on the ceiling caught your eye. Was it...?

"You like Hello Kitty, huh?" you asked smugly.

Copia felt his heart drop. Shit. He forgot to take it off earlier! "Uhm... I.. w-well.. y-yes. I love Hello Kitty," he said as if he was embarrassed of his love for the Sanrio character. "I- I know it sounds kind of childish to like Hello Kitty... but I just think she's cute, okay?!"

You laughed softly. "I will admit it is sort of weird that a grown man likes Hello Kitty," you sat back upright. "But that means I learned about something you like! Soooo..." a smirk grew across your face. "Now I can get you something Hello Kitty as a thank you gift for the flower you gave me! Then we'd be even!"

"Oh no… please don't get me a Hello Kitty gift… i-it would really embarrass me…" Copia still looked embarrassed as he looked around his room. "It's just a thing I've always enjoyed... it's not like I'm obsessed with Hello Kitty or anything." Copia was making a lot of excuses, and they were quite obvious. "It was just a little bit of my childhood, but I'm not crazy for it or anything like that."

Your eyebrow raised, clearly unconvinced. "Mhm."

"I- I mean, w-why don't more guys like Hello Kitty, eh? She's s-so fun and cute, and her f-friends are, too!"

"Uh-huh."

He gulped. "Oh... Sorella- please, I promise I'm not a creep who likes Hello Kitty, I... it was a gift, see! Y-Yeah, a gift. From, eh..."

He continued to ramble about how he didn't like Hello Kitty, and you noticed more of the familiar chibi feline posted throughout his room. "Okay, Copia. Copia, stop!" You giggled as he now somehow got the topic to cats and how they would try to feed on his rat babies.

Copia froze and stared at you, his face flushed. "I'm not a creep... I promise..." he mumbled timidly.

"I never said you were." You smiled. "Okay, I promise I won't get you any Hello Kitty merch. For now." you added the 'for now' to tease, nudging him with your elbow.

Copia sighed in relief and nodded, then froze again at the 'for now.' This made Copia's mind spin, whirling desperately for a response. "...I'm not crazy for Hello Kitty... l-like I said, it's just a childhood thing I've kept around. I'm not... like... crazy for her or anything."

He kept mumbling about how Hello Kitty wasn't really that important, and you huffed with an eyeroll. There was only one way to shut him up.

In one swift movement, you tugged on his cape and pulled him in towards you, pressing a gentle but firm kiss on his lips.

Oh boy.

Copia's face got redder than a rose at the kiss and when he was pulled towards you, he was too surprised to even say something or do anything. He was as still as a statue, but eventually he kissed back, and that was your cue to pull away. "Now I know the secret to shutting you up!~" you teased in a sing-song voice, pecking the tip of his nose and releasing him.

"What.... what... uhm..." he stuttered, his brain malfunctioning.

You giggled at his reaction before noticing the time. 8:27pm.

"Hey, I think I'm gonna change into my pajamas so I don't have to do it later. Is that okay?" you asked, knowing the chances were high that he really didn't plan anything for this spontaneous sleepover. Maybe that was partially your fault, but what the hell. It was cute to see him fretting over the little things.

"E-Eh? Oh, yeah, uh.. please, go ahead and- and make yourself comfortable. Er.. the bathroom is right there." he pointed to the door nearby.

"Okay, thanks!" You said sweetly as you dug through your duffel bag, pulling out your pajamas and hairbrush.

"I-If you want to shower as well, I.. I could get you another towel, o-or if you want to shower in the morning, then that's fine, er-"

"Don't worry, I already showered before I came over. Thank you though, sweetie!" you teased as you walked into the bathroom, hearing him mumble in a flustered tone.

"Oh, a-alright. Just go get changed, I guess..." Copia's voice trembled and he felt like he was going to say something romantic. "I'll miss you... for those 4 minutes." Copia called towards the now-closed door, trying to be flirtatious.

Oh, how you loved that silly little rat man.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

A sigh of relief left you as you changed out of your habit, putting on a more comfortable set of clothing. However, it did look a bit... revealing, which you hadn't noticed until they were actually on your body. You were wearing a low-cut black crop top with a cartoon cow on the front, and matching cow-print shorts that barely covered your upper thigh. It was cute on you, but you wondered how Copia would react to such revealing clothing on you as he'd only seen you in your habit.

You smirked as you checked yourself out in the mirror, gaining more and more confidence as you imagined his embarrassed face when you walked out. You took a few selfies first (maybe you'd post them later on your story), then walked out and saw that Copia had changed into his own pajamas, a deep blue button-up silk pajama top and plaid pajama pants.

He was sitting in bed with a TV remote in one hand, too engrossed in deciding what movie he thought you'd like to watch. The poor guy almost jumped out of his skin when your sweet voice entered his ear, "Ooh, what are we going to watch?"

"Ah!- S-Sister, uhm- w-wow, uh.. I- I mean!" Copia did a double-take as he stared at your figure, a deep blush on his face yet again. He wanted to compliment you, but every sentence that entered his mind felt like it would make him sound like a creep.

"Er... H-Here, come sit next to me," he finally spoke, patting the spot next to him on the bed. You laughed lightly, crawling under the covers and sitting next to him. "What, eh.. what do you want to watch? Y-You can pick..."

"But what if I want to watch whatever you want to watch?" you teased, grabbing the pillow behind his back and holding it in your arms.

However, Copia wasn't anticipating that, and he accidentally hit the back of his head on the headboard. "Ah, shit!"

You instantly felt terrible. "Oh, no! Are you alright?! I'm so sorry, that sounded like it hurt!" You sat up straighter, placing a hand on his shoulder.

"Ehh, I-I'm fine, Sorella- Non è niente, is nothing!" he tried to reassure you, rubbing the back of his head.

"No, you don't look fine. Here, let me see." You grabbed his face gently and pushed it into your chest, staring down at the back of his head and running your fingers through his hair to try and see if there was a lump forming.

Oh... that was definitely on purpose, wasn't it?

Copia's face felt like it was on fire as it was smothered into your cleavage, his heart jackhammering against his ribcage. He didn't think he could take much more as he practically died of embarrassment right then and there. This was definitely not on his radar for your guys' date night.

A sly grin spread across your face as your fingers ran through the soft strands of his hair, pretending to search for a wound. "Hmm.... you look fine. Oh well."

You lifted his face upwards to meet your gaze, his face redder than Hello Kitty's bow. "S- uh.. I... er..." he stammered, making a fool out of himself. He knew you were bold, but he didn't expect you to be that bold!

You decided to take pity on the poor guy. "Hey, you okay? Maybe we should get back to picking out a movie." you offered, pressing a small kiss to his forehead.

"Oh, uh, yeah... I'm fine... just fine." Copia looked like he was going to die from the amount of blushing he was doing, his mind was racing with thoughts of the situation he was in right now; it all felt like a dream to him. "Y-Yeah, let's get to the movie, pick whatever you want, I don't mind."

You both scrolled through the movies that were available for a while before making him stop on American Psycho. "Wait, how about this one? Have you seen it before?" you asked.

"Eh.. n-no.. I haven't. I love horror movies, yes, b-but I haven't found interest in this one. I-It looks sort of cheesy." he mumbled.

"Ooh! Oh my gosh, this one is really good. I promise you'll like this one. It's about a serial killer!"

"Oh, I see. O-Okay, well... do you want to watch it?" he asked, to which you nodded. He pressed the play button and you two sat in silence, watching the movie.

"Eh... are you hungry? I- I have some popcorn if you want some, or do you want a different snack?"

"Mm, I'm okay. I've got my own snack right here." You smirked, draping your arm around his shoulders, slowly started to snuggle into him.

He muttered something under his breath in Italian, his face scarlet. You chuckled and nudged him in a teasing manner before he started leaning into your warmth and watching the movie with you.

~~~

previous chapter. | next chapter.

[pradnyesh1008]

First of all, your game is great, wonderfully developed, but I would suggest double-checking because there are some minor spelling mistakes. I found it beautiful, comprehensive as a game.

Is it a series or a standalone?

I noticed one thing, that the height of the MC is shorter than the father or the boy(RO), I wonder if the MC has a fixed height, or can you choose to change?

I don't know if you understand, but I would like there to be even more flexibility regarding the choices, (i.e. leave almost everything open and the users decide what to do) even at the level of romantic and sexual.

Aelius has its charms. But I prefer the MC because they are a force of nature to be reckoned with, but also because they believe in fair fighting. I hope you understand the review. And by chance Aelius has already captured your heart. doesn’t he?Lol 😏

Thank you so much for your kind words and valuable feedback! I'm thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the game overall.

Regarding your question about whether it's a series or a standalone, I envision it as a series, much like Game of Thrones. However, whether it continues as a series will depend on how well it's received by players. If people are loving it, I'll definitely continue to expand the story into multiple installments. But if it doesn't resonate with players, I may conclude it with the first book.

As for the height of the MC, currently, it's fixed, but I'll definitely consider adding more customization options in the future, including the ability to adjust the height.

In terms of flexibility with choices, I understand your desire for more openness, especially in romantic and sexual aspects. Rest assured, most choices are left up to the players, allowing for a wide range of possibilities and outcomes.

As for Aelius capturing hearts, well, I can see why some players might be drawn to his charms. However, as the creator, I must admit I'm quite fond of the MC as well. They're truly a force to be reckoned with, and their belief in fair fighting adds depth to their character.

Regarding your last point, I'm afraid I didn't quite understand what you meant. Could you please clarify it for me?

[ahiddenpath]

Why do you insist on coddling fanfiction writers? Shouldn't we welcome constructive criticism so that we may improve? As a writer, I can't think of anything worse than resting my laurels on mediocre writing and developing hubris because everyone was too afraid to tell me how bad my fic really was.

I'm assuming this ask was prompted by the two posts I reblogged about fanfiction recently.

The first states that fanfic writers are working on their own projects. A reviewer telling them to write what they want to see isn't concrit. Unless the writer indicated that they aren't sure where to take the story and are looking for input, then telling a writer what to put in their fic is an attempt to have someone make content for you for free. If a reader wants specific content, they must write it, commission it, or seek out someone who is looking for prompts.

The second states that if you don't like a fic, then you shouldn't read it. The implication is that you should leave rather than leave a nasty review, but personally, I mostly take it as, "hey babe, your free time is precious, don't spend it on stuff you don't like." Again, this isn't about concrit. It's a warning against wasting your own time as a reader. Maybe the internet has always been this way, but there seem to be folks who engage in fandom by... Seeking out the exact opposite of what they like and then raging about it. In my opinion, this hurts everyone. Again, nothing here relates to concrit.

I'd say most writers like concrit, but concrit implies that the reader understood the work, possesses analytical skill, and cares about it enough to want to help the writer improve. If a reader cared about the fic, they wouldn't tell the writer to redo the work with their own preferences (ie, the reader's fave ships, tropes, whatever) (see the first above). At that point, what the reader wants is a different fic (see the second above), not to help this writer make their fic stronger. And if a reader dislikes the fic, its subject matter, whatever, then why would they waste their time giving concrit? They're just having a bad time and will probably not be able to provide concrit in good faith (see the second above).

If you're seeking concrit of your ask, and please do forgive me if you aren't, I'd gently suggest reading the original posts I reblogged more carefully. They make no mention of concrit. Also, they are not about coddling anyone, or even being kind. They're about readers using their most valuable resource- their time- more wisely, and also valuing the time of writers.

If you want concrit of your work, please indicate such in your fic, and also join a writing group. Most folks online don't have the free time or training to provide meaningful concrit, which will center on actual writing issues (pacing, management of exposition, cohesiveness of the narrative, etc). If someone is listing the ships and tropes they like and want to see in your fic in a review, that's not concrit. If someone is insulting your fic, that's not concrit. I'm sorry if you have accepted these things as concrit in the past. You deserve better- but also, you likely aren't going to find it for free, unless you have the incredible fortune of attracting a reader who loves your fic, has enough free time to engage deeply, and has some training in reviewing writing.

Meaningful concrit is a give and take thing. Expecting it for free is... A bit of an ask (although it does happen! I see you, review angels). So join a writing group that provides it, and give back in turn. Please don't hoist that expectation onto internet strangers. This kind of work is how you avoid resting on your laurels.

Oh, also, if you're looking for people to "tell you how bad your fic really was," there's... Probably a subreddit for that, assuming it hasn't imploded over the last few days. But again, "this fic is bad," is not concrit. That's... just an insult. If you want that, hey, go for it! But oh my goodness, please don't expect other people to want it in general. They don't. They really, really don't.

Best of luck to you on your writing journey.

[middlechildanxiety]

Advice to college students, and anyone going into or thinking about going to college:

Talk to your advisor. Bigger colleges assign one to you when you declare a major, but even at a small place or in the general track there are advisors for you.

If the one you see first or are assigned isn't working or messes something up, you can and should get a new one. They're like therapists, but I haven't had to pay for them

If you have issues with a professor, email your advisor. Multiple people telling them the same thing about a professor gets attention, and they can usually pull a couple strings for you in a tough spot

If you eat at the cafeteria or dining center on campus, make friends with the people who work there and leave a good impression. They control your food, but they also have the coach of your team on speed dial to come chew you out if you cause problems. For some reason, they also get along with everyone in the financial aid office

Don't be afraid to change your major. I know there a lot of reasons to feel locked in, and I know a lot of them are valid. But if what you had picked doesn't feel right, if it keeps not feeling right, if your plans or just you change too much, don't feel embarrassed or guilty. My dad changed his major 5 times before his college told him he'd had to actually graduate. For most of my life, he's been doing things unrelated to the major he graduated in but it looks good on the resume

None of this is universal, but pay attention to the atmosphere for the coaches of all the sports teams. Both places I've been, if you complain to a professor about a classmate and the professor then tells the coach, shit can happen

Don't room with friends you have not already been living with if you can help it. It's easier to set living boundaries with someone that you don't have a relationship with before because you can feel guilty or shy about it. This is especially true in a traditional dorm with little privacy

I might be an ass kisser, but living in dorms is better if your RA likes you and has a reason to trust you. Give them one, and most of the time they don't need another

If you notice problems in a class but it's too late or your schedule can't deal with dropping it or you decide that you can stick it out, whatever, have a document of complaints and problems. Nuke the professor in the end of semester review

Remember that you can wear pretty much anything, and you won't be the first or last person that your professor or classmates see wearing it. Name brand, full makeup, rainbows, flag as a cape, Indiana Jones hat, wolf hat, pajamas; relax. Anyone who cares or is shitty hasn't emotionally left high school yet so you don't have to care what they think. One exception is business majors. Learn the standards before you push them but that's mostly later on in the track

History professors tend to be kinda wacky so if you need an extra couple credits or are doing gen ed classes I will always suggest a history class

Even professors with bad ratings or who are known for being a hard ass have a soft spot. Rate my professor and sites like that are still great but again, I'm an ass kisser and have been for years so my methods may not work for everyone. I have just found that sometimes it's a lot easier to get people to like you than you expect.

Lie when you need to. This is general life advice, but it's cool if you don't want to tell someone something, or if you know a professor won't accept a mental health day even if most of them should. Lying is an art though, never use something too dramatic when a migraine will do

College is a place that a lot of people find their spot. You don't have to and it's nothing bad against you if you don't, but if you want to find a spot or a group, you fucking won't if you don't act like yourself. College is known as a time of self discovery for a reason

College is also a time to drop things. If a person or thing doesn't spark joy, it's okay to admit that and move on, not everything can fit in the dorm room anyway

You can and will make mistakes at any point in your life. College? It's known for having some of the worst, funniest, biggest, and stupidest mistakes in people's lives. Make some, and find people who will tell you about theirs to make you feel better

You will also, inevitably, be an asshole at various points in your life. You might not want to admit it, you might make it your personality, you might realize it and immediately think you're the worst person who's ever lived. You aren't, but remember that it will happen and it will pass so long as you make an effort to be better

My experience is of course limited, but these are things I've either been told that helped, wish I'd been told, or have told my friends at college. This is also really pointed towards being on campus, but I hope it means something to someone

[leiflitter]

10000% this- and hopefully we can change it!

I honestly feel like the multi-levelled corporate decision making process doesn't really "get" the idea of escapism- like for whoever was responsible for signing off on body types, it's this "we must balance costs vs what we think the gamers want" kinda deal but being absolutely ripped/supermodel thin is by no means a universal fantasy- but at this point it's essentially "the default" for game characters, and to make more body types you have to be able to justify the cost of everything that body type requires to be functional in the game- so they played it safe.

Larian have said their reasoning for not having sliders, which is their choice (I, for one, love me some sliders, but I can understand their logic).

Assuming minimal crossover, we have at least 14 individual body types in BG3 across the various races and sizes (this is me doing awful maths off the top of my head, so grain of salt please 😅). That's 14 different bodies that require at least some adjustment for everything those bodies interact with- heads, clothing, hair, weapons, overworld animations, cutscenes... not just for the main characters, but for near enough every NPC in the game. To add another set of bodies would increase the overall work required by a further 50%, and if they can't justify that cost, then they're shit outta luck.

And it's also important to remember that Larian are, comparatively, quite a small studio. Starfield, for example, had a budget of ~$200 mil and had about 500 people working on it.

Baldur's Gate 3 had a budget of ~$100 mil and 300 staff.

All round, it's a tighter squeeze, with so much to factor in.

However, Larian being a smaller studio also means that they're really responsive to feedback, and they're absolutely bangin' out updates and fixes. I don't anticipate them going "patch 7- we've added 2 more body types for each race!" BUT Larian have a habit of releasing Definitive Editions, and an expanded character creation menu could conceivably be included in that. The D:OS2 Definitive Edition included a MASSIVE narrative overhaul, for example- they aren't afraid of big projects. If Larian get enough people asking for it, then chances are that they'll at least consider implementing it, especially as BG3 has been an absolute hit and as such they may well have more flexibility in budget.

And getting in before the "just mod your game-" crew-

1. Telling people to rely on unpaid labours of fan-love for a game isn't sustainable.

2. Not everyone can mod their game.

3. Mods ≠ Tangible Changes in games as a whole- but a game having diverse body types and selling well is good data to hopefully mean further changes to gaming. And if you're against having more character customisation options... are you okay? Like, really, you don't... need to use them if you don't want?

I'm not sure of the best ways to get feedback on things like this to Larian, but consider-

1. Leaving a review on Steam/wherever you got the game. Make sure any suggestions are clear and concise, as review data is a bitch to go through! Maybe have it as bullet points, i.e.

Suggestions:

1. Additional body types

2. More platonic companion content.

3. Companion cutscene time to be equalised amongst all companions.

2. The Larian Studios forum may already have a thread about this/other suggestions- taking a minute to have a check and see if you can add a comment.

3. Stuff like this on social media- but again, try to have concise suggestions as well as any justification or analysis! The easier you make it for the data analysts, the better- unstructured data is an absolute pain to deal with.

If anyone else has any means of getting suggestions to Larian, have at it- I wrote this on my lunch break so my research time is limited.

as much as I love Baldur's Gate 3 it is. Baffling and infuriating that there is nobody online talking about how in a world as massive and populated as this game's there are 0 fat people in it, anywhere, at all, when we had body sliders in Fallout 3 fifteen fucking years ago

If you want Boy body type you get to be hunk and More Hunk and if you want Girl body type you get to be skinny or skinny with muscles and that's WEIRD, right? It's weird that no one's talking about that?? This is a bizarre regression from a game that advances so much and I would have happily waited another whole year of development for a body slider feature

[phd-thesis-support]

The Thesis Journey: Crafting Your Academic Masterpiece

Writing a thesis is much work, but in fact, it also portrays a great achievement related to your academic career. It requires proper planning together with deep research and good writing skills. To start off this journey begin with a clear and powerful thesis statement. This is the basis for your dissertation and captures the basic argument or research question; it should be specific yet arguable and reflective of the scope of your work. A good thesis statement guides your writing and explains to readers why you undertook this study and its importance.

Following the establishment of the thesis, conduct a comprehensive literature review. The process involves examining the literature available on your research topic, identifying gaps within the literature, and situating your research in the general academic debate. A good literature review contains not only a broad understanding of the field but also highlights contributions your thesis will make. This helps to present your research question and to justify the significance of your study, making it evident why your work matters.

Next, you should develop a clearly outlined methodology section that describes your research design, your means of data collection, and your analytical techniques. It is a very important part of the credibility of your research. Transparency as to how you approached your study will give readers the chance to make judgments about the rigour of the study and understand why you may have reached a particular result. A defined methodology improves the validity of research and can help people replicate your study if they so wish.

Maintain a consistent writing schedule while gathering and analyzing your data. Then, the whole process of writing the thesis seems overwhelming at first, but breaking it into smaller sections will keep you focused and motivated. Start with those sections that come easily to you; that builds momentum and confidence. Do not be afraid to revise and edit the work continuously for clarity and coherence. I would suggest you don't hesitate to seek feedback from your advisor and peers at different stages of the process.

A good thesis also needs to have a good introduction and conclusion. Your introduction should give a general overview of your research question, objectives, and significance, while the conclusion should summarize your findings and discuss their implications. A good conclusion will not only reinforce your thesis but also leave a lasting impression on your readers, showing them what contributions your work makes to the field.

Lastly, focus much on proper formatting and citation styles. It is professionally done by strictly adhering to guidelines that your institution may stipulate. All sources should be properly referenced, with a comprehensive list of references for the sources used to back up one's work in the study and add more credibility to one's work as it indicates that your study was done with much help from the work of other people. This can be achieved by a well-defined thesis statement, comprehensive literature review, robust methodology, consistent writing schedule, impactful introductions and conclusions, and strict adherence to proper formatting guidelines. In this way, your thesis will not only adhere to the standards of academic writing but also contribute meaningfully to your field. This is an opportunity to share your knowledge and passion for your field with the world, and your thesis journey unfolds into a rewarding academic masterpiece.

For further research assistance, reach out to us on our WhatsApp wa.me/+918217879258

[cordycepsfem]

About breast surgery: I'm looking into getting a reduction. It would be radical, but it's very much needed not just for aesthetic reasons, but because my back and shoulders hurt like hell, finding bras is ridiculously expensive, and because I'm tired of being sexualized for simply existing. Plus, two of my grandmothers died of breast cancer, and although I don't carry the gene, it's better be safe than sorry. I just want them gone, be as flat as possible.

Finding a surgeon is turning out to be incredibly difficult not because they aren't willing to operate me for the sake of my health, but because what I ask wouldn't be "aesthetically pleasing."

Surgeons, who agree I should get this operation because the weight of my breasts is ruining the shape of my spine, refuse to operate me because the size I ask for wouldn't be pretty for the people who look at me.

I had similar reasons for seeking a breast reduction consultation, and I’m sorry that you’ve found it difficult to meet with an ethical surgeon who will put your best interests ahead of ridiculous attractiveness standards.

Going forward, I would offer two ideas. First, if you can, ask for or look for a female surgeon/practitioner. I no longer see male practitioners for anything intimate - ie psychiatrist, therapist, gynecologist, GP, or any specialist for things like breast health. I’ve found that this greatly increases the likelihood that I will be listened to and my treatment plan will be humane and focused on what my body/mind need. I didn’t think it would make such a huge difference but it really has. I am medically interesting and I see a lot of specialists, so it’s not always feasible to get a female provider… but I refuse to compromise on anything intimate.

Second, when you go to an appointment, write down or record what happens, or have someone go with you to do that as your advocate. Then you can say “Oh, on July 3 you said that you would not approve a breast reduction for x, y, and z reasons, despite my medical condition showing A, B, and C.” This way there’s a paper trail, and you can appeal your case to their head of department or a hospital/clinic administrator. Having a written or recorded admission to not wanting to operate due to “aesthetics” would be damning evidence that said provider did not care about your health, and could be held liable for it.

As a tag-on suggestion - leave reviews. Let other women see what kind of practitioner Dr. X is. Put it on Google or Yelp or the clinic/hospital’s social media page. I have done this for providers who’ve exceeded my expectations or gone above and beyond to help with insurance, etc, and I’ve had people contact me to let them know they chose the clinic I reviewed. I believe that if businesses are going to act a certain way or treat customers poorly then others in the community should know about it. I used to be afraid to do so, but now I know that there are other women who might be looking for a provider and want to know they’ll be treated well.

I hope you’re able to find someone who will be on your side regarding your health and safety!

[hardwoodflooringco]

Choosing the Right Hardwood Floor Contractors: What You Need to Know

Hardwood floors are an immortal expansion to any home, offering both excellence and sturdiness. Be that as it may, the outcome of your hardwood flooring project to a great extent relies upon choosing the right hardwood floor workers for hire. With such countless choices accessible, finding a worker for hire who addresses your issues can appear to be overwhelming. This guide will assist you in making an informed decision.

The Importance of Hiring Professional Hardwood Floor Contractors

Although it can be tempting to try to install hardwood floors on your own, it is usually best to leave the job to professionals. Hardwood floor workers for hire bring specific information, instruments, and experience that guarantee a great establishment. They comprehend the subtleties of various wood types, subfloor prerequisites, and acclimatization processes, which are basic for an effective establishment.

Exploration and Suggestions

The most important phase in picking hardwood floor workers for hire is exhaustive exploration. Begin by asking neighbors and friends for recommendations. A contractor's dependability and quality of work can be learned from personal experiences.

A more comprehensive perspective can also be gained from reading online reviews and ratings on sites like Google, Yelp, or Angie's List. Look for contractors who consistently receive positive reviews and high ratings. Focus on any common issues referenced in surveys, like idealness, impressive skill, or post-establishment support.

Confirm Certifications

When you have a waitlist of potential hardwood floor workers for hire, confirm their qualifications. Make sure they have insurance and a valid license. A legitimate permit shows that the project worker has fulfilled industry guidelines, while protection safeguards you from possible liabilities, like harm to your property or wounds at work.

Check for Experience and Ability

Experience matters with regards to hardwood flooring. Ask contractors about their experience in the industry, as well as their knowledge of various hardwoods and installation methods. Your job will probably be handled more effectively and efficiently by a contractor who has previously worked on similar projects.

Also, find out how well they handle particular problems, like uneven subfloors or intricate patterns. Based on their extensive experience, a seasoned contractor will be able to offer solutions and recommendations.

Examine References and Portfolio

A reputable hardwood floor contractor ought to have a portfolio that displays previous work. Audit this portfolio to measure the quality and assortment of their establishments. Look for projects that meet your needs or vision.

Don't be afraid to ask for references from previous customers. Make contact with these references to find out how they felt about working with the contractor. Get some information about perspectives like adherence to cutoff times, correspondence, and the eventual outcome of their deck project.

Get Point by point Evaluations

Prior to going with a last choice, get nitty gritty evaluations from different project workers. A thorough gauge ought to incorporate the expense of materials, work, and any extra costs. Quotes that appear to be unusually low should be avoided because they may indicate poor materials or hidden costs.

Compare the estimates, but don't just go with the cheapest one. Think about the project worker's standing, experience, and the nature of materials they intend to utilize. You might be able to avoid costly issues in the long run by paying a little bit more up front.

7. Read the Contract Carefully

Before signing a contract, make sure that it covers all aspects of the project. This includes the work's scope, payment plan, warranty information, and expected completion date. A very much drafted agreement safeguards both you and the project worker and forestalls errors.

8. For a smooth project, effective communication with your hardwood floor contractors is essential. Talk about your assumptions, inclinations, and any worries you might have. An expert project worker ought to be responsive, straightforward, and ready to resolve your inquiries in the interim.

9. Last but not least, take into consideration the contractor's post-installation assistance. A dependable hardwood floor worker for hire ought to give direction on upkeep and mind to guarantee the life span of your floors. In addition, inquire about their policies regarding warranty claims or potential issues following installation.

Conclusion

Picking the right hardwood floor project workers is urgent for accomplishing the exquisite and getting through look you craving for your home. You can make an informed decision by thoroughly researching, verifying credentials, and carefully reviewing estimates and contracts. Keep in mind, putting resources into a trustworthy project worker upgrades the excellence of your home as well as guarantees the life span and sturdiness of your hardwood floors.

[maiditeasy]

Strategies for Building and Nurturing Long-Lasting Connections with Your Housemaids

A tidy and well-organized home is a happy home. We, at Maid it Easy recognize the value of trustworthy help with household management in the hectic world of today. We are therefore more than just a service; we are your collaborator in designing a harmonious home. We'll discuss some approaches in this blog to support you in creating and fostering enduring relationships with your housemaids. We will also have a look at why Maid it easy Hyderabad reviews have received positive customer ratings.  

Making the Environment Friendly:

It's essential to establish a warm and friendly environment for your housemaid in order to get off to a good start. Show them courtesy and respect. Their sense of value can be greatly increased by a nice grin and a sincere hello.

Open Communication:

Any effective partnership must have good communication. Encourage your housekeeper to voice their ideas and worries. Engage in active listening and quickly fix any problems. Trust and understanding are fostered by this open conversation.

Recognize Their Effort:

Recognize and value the effort your housekeeper puts in to keep your house in good condition. A tiny token of appreciation or a simple "thank you" can go a long way. On our platform, such as the "Maid It Easy reviews" section, we want you to leave reviews and share your satisfying experiences.

Keep Their Privacy in Mind:

It's crucial to respect your housekeeper's privacy. Make sure they have a cozy, private place to rest when they take breaks. This demonstrates that you regard them as people, not just as workers.

Promote the development of skills:

Encourage the professional and personal development of your housekeeper. Offer them training chances or motivation to pick up new skills. A stronger and more enduring bond may result from this investment in their personal growth.

Celebrate special events:

Observe their birthdays, anniversaries, and other noteworthy events. On certain days, small festivities or kind deeds can generate enduring memories and deepen your bond.

Be Flexible:

Because of the unpredictability of life, your housekeeper may occasionally require flexibility in their work schedule. Being sympathetic and accommodating in these circumstances can foster loyalty and confidence.

Set a family-friendly tone:

Consider your housekeeper a vital member of your family. Invite them to events and family gatherings. They get a sense of belonging thanks to this inclusivity, which encourages bonding.

Show Interest:

Get to know your housekeeper on a personal level. Find out about their passions, interests, and goals. You can tell you care about someone by genuinely being interested in their life outside of work.

Resolve Disagreements:

There will be difficulties in any partnership. When they do, respond to them in a cool and helpful manner. Along with solving the problem, coming up with solutions jointly will deepen your relationship.

Fair Compensation:

Make sure your housekeeper is fairly compensated for the labor they put in. A motivated and content worker is one who receives a competitive wage.

Uphold a tidy and secure workplace:

Your housemaid's health depends on having a clean and secure working environment. Your concern for their welfare is demonstrated by your regular maintenance and safety inspections.

Offer the Resources and Tools Necessary:

Give your housekeeper the resources and equipment she needs to do her job well. This demonstrates your dedication to their achievement in their position.

Review expectations often:

With your housekeeper, go through your expectations and job requirements periodically. This keeps communication clear and guarantees that everyone is talking about the same thing.

Ask for Feedback:

Don't be afraid to ask your housekeeper for advice. Inquire about their suggestions for enhancing the household and working relationship. Their knowledge is often priceless. You can view our positive customer testimonials in Maid it easy reviews section.

Offer advantages:

Think about providing your housekeeper with advantages like health insurance or paid time off. These benefits not only entice great employees but also give your housekeeper a sense of worth and security.

Foster their individual objectives:

Be encouraging if your housekeeper has ambitions or objectives for the future. Your support can have a big impact on their life, whether they decide to pursue a pastime or further their schooling.

Be understanding and patient:

Finally, the foundation of a lasting relationship is patience and understanding. Keep in mind that your housekeeper is a human being, and everyone experiences highs and lows.

Conclusion

In conclusion, creating a peaceful and encouraging environment is just as important as keeping your homes clean for the purpose of fostering long-lasting relationships with your housemaids. We at Maid It Easy are your companions, not simply a service. We cordially urge you to contribute your wisdom and experiences by leaving the Maid It Easy review and supporting us in our goal of creating happy homes for all.

[latina4rmbx]

Why I Read...

For those of you who don't know me IRL, I am an avid reader. Like anything in my life, I do it nonstop for a period of time and then give it up for a period of time. Not sure if that's balance, but this is how my mind works.

I was talking to a gentleman friend and he asked me about the last book I read. I believe he asked me what I was reading at the moment and I informed him that I wasn't reading anything. He asked me why

Here's part of the point of the post. I truly have to thank him because he's the reason behind the inspiration.

I said: You know when you're binge watching a show and it ends? Either the season or the series? Sometimes you need to wrap your mind around the ending. Let it sink it or simmer into the recesses of your mind and heart and soul.

Ok, I didn't say all of that. But the sentiment is there.

He said: Yeah I can get that. You're letting the finishing of the book leave your system (or something to that affect).

EXACTLY!

I read and when I finish a book, sometimes it takes days or months for me to stop thinking of the book. It needs to leave my mental portfolio before I can start on a new journey.

Then he said this: You know they say reading sometimes is better than watching it on TV or a movie.

Me: Yes, because of your imagination

There you have it folks. My imagination (or yours) is what propels what is being read forward. If a writer is good, you're able to imagine where and how and why. If a writer is better, you're able to feel and taste and smell.

I've probably said it before but for those of you who don't know, I have an active imagination. I may not be able to do all the things I imagine, but I am able to imagine myself and picture things so vividly. It's why I write, honestly and I write the most mundane things. Regular ol' day to day stuff. I don't have a lot going on in my life, but I have a lot of stuff going on. Things that I may share. Things that aren't mine to share, yet.

However, its the imagination of the mundane that gets me through another day, another week, another month. Even if my real life doesn't turn out the way my imagination sees it, I'm ok with that. My life is pretty great. I wouldn't trade that boredom for all the chaos in the world. Luckily, I don't have to.

You may want to know what book I was reading that prompted the exchange above (or not). It was Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover. As a matter of fact, I'll just give you a little list at the end of this little rant and you do with it as you want. I promise, I'll only write the ones that affected me in some way.

At present, meaning TODAY, I am reading Darling Venom by Parker S. Huntington. It's the first time I'm reading something by this author. I'm loving the book. I'm almost done with it.

I have this weight on my chest because I saw a review of the book and the lady was bawling. Although the book has made me tear up a couple of times, I feel the steam building up and I'm afraid I'm going to blow. I hope this book scars me...in a good way. It's what I'm anticipating. Parker, don't let me down :)

Well guys, let me try to finish this book in the hour before I have to log in to work. Below is a list of reading material that I like/love. Again, do with it what you will.

Until next time family.

XOXO

Thanks for reading

______________________________________________________________

Reading List/Suggestions/Books I Love (In no particular order):

Reminders of Him - Colleen Hoover

Where We Belong - Emily Giffin

Something Borrowed - Emily Giffin

The Midnight Library - Matt Haig

Something Blue - Emily Giffin

The Rescue - Nicholas Sparks

Me Before You - Jojo Moyes

How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accent - Julia Alvarez

The Divinci Code - Dan Brown

Small Great Things - Jodi Picoult

A Spark of Light - Jodi Picoult

The Left Behind Series - Tim LaHaye

The Wedding - Nicholas Sparks

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue - V. E. Schwab

Sundays' at Tiffany's - James Patterson

The Book of Two Ways - Jodi Picoult

The Lottery - Shirley Jackson

The Time Traveler's Wife - Audrey Niffenegger

It Ends with Us - Colleen Hoover

The Last Letter from your Lover - Jojo Moyes

The Twilight Series - Stephenie Meyer

The Maze Runner Trilogy - James Dashner

The Game Series - Terry Schott

Divergent Series - Veronica Roth

Everything Everything - Nicola Yoon

I found a list in my Notes on my Phone. These don't have the authors names (some may be repeated above):

The Alchemist

Fahrenheit 451

The Game Series

The Left Behind Series

The Giver

The Receiver

1984

Call Me by Your Name

Small Great Things

A Spark of Light

Sapiens & Homo Deus

How to Win Friends & Influence People

11/22/63

The True Blood Series

Paradise Lost

Paradise Found

Sloppy Seconds: The Tucker Max Leftovers

The Gift of the Magi

The Lottery

The Divine Comedy

The Scarlet Letter

Anything by Edgar Allan Poe

The Brief and Wonderous Life of Oscar Wao

How the Garcia Girls Lost their Accents

The Book Thief

The Kite Flier

If I Stay

Where She Went

Anything by John Green

Inferno

Digital Fortress

Angels & Demons

The Lost Symbol

Origin

Deception Point

[runaway-royals]

Kenji looked at Lucas with a faint smile, truly appreciating his words and the way he tried to comfort him. "Thank you, Luke... but the thing is... I don't care about future generations... I mean, of course I do... but it's just... my sister needs me now, in this moment... and I can't do shit to help her!" The prince voiced his frustration, running his hands through his dark hair, messing it in the process. Taking a deep breath, Kenji nodded at Kori's suggestion and let Luke accompany him to his chambers. "We have to think of something... she doesn't deserve this... I know things have always been this way, even I will have to marry a suitable bride chosen by Father, but I've made my peace with it, sort of... but not Nana. She always placed love above all else... even when we were little, and I'd wake up crying from a nightmare, or afraid of thunder... everyone told me to be strong, because the future Emperor could never cry or show fear... but not Nana. She'd always let me sleep beside her, or help me check under the bed for demons..." The prince chuckled softly, reminiscing about their childhood. "She's always been there for me, regardless of protocol... so now it's my turn, to be there for her too. We really have to think of something..."

Meanwhile, before entering the palace, Nana stopped. Once she stepped foot inside, it would be harder to escape. No, she couldn't go inside and wait for tomorrow. Tomorrow it would be too late. If she wanted to escape this fate, she had to run away now. It was the only solution, at least the only one she could think of right now. And as the saying went, desperate times required desperate measures. So she kept hidden in the garden, crouching behind a fountain, covered by some bushes, waiting for her brother and friends to go inside. Once the coast was clear, she made her way to the stables, doing her best not to be spotted by any guards, the dark cloak she still had on being extremely helpful in this case. Carefully entering the place, she approached Yuki, her favourite horse, named after her white color, just like snow. "Heyy girl... I really need your help tonight..." The princess spoke in a low voice, caressing Yuki's head, before climbing onto her back and running away, leaving the stables and the royal grounds behind. Knowing nowhere else to go, or no one to turn to, she rode to the port, trying to find King Njord's ships, and hopefully Blue. Maybe he could help her escape.

All of this took place unbeknownst to the Emperor, Raiden Serizawa, who, in consequence of his political ally's earlier arrival, had to prepare everything for next day's meeting, where the marriage of their heirs would be discussed and all preparations decided. As he reviewed a map, he sensed a presence in the room, and lifted his eyes to see a young maid, Kori, who was also a close friend of his oldest daughter. "Ah, Kori! I trust everything went alright today at the fair? Did you amuse yourselves?" The Emperor asked, before looking at his maps once more. "But it's very late, you should go and rest... tomorrow will be a big day, and I'm counting on you to assist my daughter during all preparations for her wedding!" He announced proudly.

"Well I he made the perfect choice, I'm sure they won't mind." Kori smiled as they passed through the palace gates.

"And you will, just because thing crappy right now does mean you can't make things better for future generations. You've already proven yourself far more compassionate than most royals your age, not to mention willing to listen and learn."

Luke replied, gently squeezing the prince's shoulder.

"You're gonna be an amazing ruler one day, Kenji, and our family will be there every step of the way."

The young man promised before hopping down and letting the girls out.

"No problem, Nan!" He replied as the gaurd broke the news and she took off.

"Nana!" Kori called as the princess disappeared past the cast walls.

She looked over at the soldier. "Are you sure it's tomorrow?" She hoping he had been mistaken, that the had a little more time.

"I'm afraid so, my lady... I'm sorry, truly I am." The man replied sympathetically.

The maid huffed, running a hand through her hair. She couldn't blame the guy for doing his job.

"It's not your fault. We all knew this would happen sooner or later. You're free to go, enjoy the rest of your night."

She replied looking at Luke and Kenji.

"Would mind taking Kenj inside Lu? I'm going to get things set for the morning staff..."

Luke nodded. "Sure, Munchkin, come on, Bud, you had a long day."

He said, leading the young royal inside.

Kori stayed til the wee hours of in the morning getting everyone's tacks ready, part of her hopelessly praying to the gods that the longer she stayed awake, it would keep the morning and the meeting from coming.

But soon, exhaustion won, and she decided to rest. On her way to the staff chambers, she noticed Emperor's office was lit and decided to peek in, seeing the ruler sitting at his desk.

"You're Highness? What are you doing up at this hour?"

The maid asked carefully, making her presence known.