#emotional vulnerability and introspection

[00valentina-writes00]

ik this is a over done trope but reader flinching during and argument please with ambessa or sevika (ignore if this makes you un comfy)

Ahem how bout both?

✞⛧ Sevika AND Ambessa when you flinch during an argument ✞⛧

✞⛧𝕊𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕜𝕒✞⛧

✞⛧ Sevika’s initial reaction would be a flicker of surprise, quickly replaced by a sharp, assessing gaze. She’s not one for unnecessary drama, but she can read the situation like a book.

✞⛧ Her first instinct would be to immediately back off, her posture stiffening as her mind runs through what she just did to make you flinch.

✞⛧ She’d never want to make you feel unsafe, and if she sees you flinch, she’d pause, her intense focus shifting to you. It would throw her off balance for a moment, not because she’s unsure of her own actions, but because she never wanted to make you feel that way.

✞⛧ Sevika’s eyes would narrow, her protective side kicking in as she looks at you like you’ve just wounded her in a way words can’t explain.

✞⛧ Her voice would soften, though not necessarily in a comforting way—it would be more of a controlled, cold calmness. “Did I scare you?” she’d ask, her tone low and even, though there’s a hint of frustration underlying it.

✞⛧ If you don’t answer, Sevika would get even more guarded, crossing her arms in front of her chest and giving you space while trying to hide how affected she is by the flinch.

✞⛧ Despite her tough exterior, Sevika would feel a pang of guilt. She’s not someone who tends to apologize, but she might mutter, “I didn’t mean to make you feel like that,” in a rare moment of vulnerability.

✞⛧ She’d probably keep her distance for a while after that, trying to process what happened internally, but her eyes would never leave you—watching, waiting for some sort of response

✞⛧ Sevika would be incredibly introspective after the flinch, likely replaying the entire argument in her mind, dissecting what she said, and wondering if she was too harsh, too fast with her words.

✞⛧ Even though Sevika’s a fighter, she has an incredibly strong sense of pride, and seeing you flinch would hit her harder than she’d care to admit.

✞⛧ If you tried to apologize or explain why you flinched, Sevika would hold up a hand, telling you to stop. She’s not the kind of person to let you take the blame for something she feels responsible for.

✞⛧ You might see Sevika take a long breath and slowly step towards you, her usual stoic face replaced by something closer to concern—a rare sight for her.

✞⛧ If you’re still visibly shaken, Sevika would drop any argument she’s holding onto, her gaze softening as she focuses entirely on making sure you’re okay, though she’s still not great with emotions.

✞⛧ Her frustration would shift inward, and you might catch her muttering under her breath, “I didn’t mean to fucking hurt you.” It’s rare for Sevika to admit when she’s wrong, but she doesn’t like seeing you afraid of her.

✞⛧ Sevika would give you time to process, but she’d also be very blunt about how she’s feeling. “You think I would hurt you?” she’d ask, her voice quieter now, not filled with the anger it had earlier.

✞⛧ If you told her that you were just startled, she’d take that as a small relief, but still feel bad about the fact that it happened at all. “I’m not gonna hurt you, [Y/N],” she’d reaffirm, but with more emphasis on reassurance than defensiveness.

✞⛧ She might offer to sit down with you, her stance softened, but her brow furrowed in concentration. She’s not good with comforting, but she’ll try, even if it’s awkward.

✞⛧ The next time you argue, Sevika would be more cautious, taking a moment to gauge your reactions before she raises her voice or gets more heated. She’s not one for letting arguments go, but she’s not going to push you to the breaking point.

✞⛧ If you bring up what happened in the past, Sevika would have a hard time admitting how much it bothered her. She’d downplay it and act like it wasn’t a big deal, but deep down, she’s processing how to better handle your relationship.

✞⛧ Sevika might not openly show it, but seeing you flinch makes her question how she presents herself to you. She doesn’t want to be a source of fear, even though she often exudes a commanding, intimidating presence.

✞⛧ In rare moments, if you ask her about it later, Sevika would simply shrug it off but with a quiet intensity in her eyes. “I never wanted to make you feel like that. I just… don’t do well with soft shit,” she’d admit, showing how much she struggles with vulnerability.

✞⛧ She may not be able to apologize directly, but she’ll do things to make it up to you—maybe fixing the situation with actions rather than words. Her way of showing she cares would be by offering you the space you need and then following it up with practical support.

✞⛧ If you flinch again in the future, Sevika would tense up instantly, but this time, she’d be quicker to pull back, knowing how badly she messed up the last time.

✞⛧ Sevika might get frustrated with herself more than anything else. She’s not the type to back down from anything, but when it comes to making you feel comfortable, she’s out of her depth.

✞⛧ As she reflects on the situation, she might get a little defensive, questioning herself: Am I too much? But she’ll keep it to herself, never admitting to the self-doubt that follows moments like these.

✞⛧ She’ll probably make up for it by doing something practical for you—whether it’s taking on extra responsibilities or handling something that would ease your stress.

✞⛧ Sevika might also check in on you more often, even if it’s in her own blunt way. “You good?” she’d ask, trying to gauge where your head’s at and how she can fix things without making it awkward.

✞⛧ The next time you fight, Sevika would be less prone to raising her voice, realizing that yelling isn’t always the answer when it comes to you. She’d still argue with the same intensity, but she’d dial it back a little.

✞⛧ Sevika wouldn’t easily forgive herself for making you feel scared. Even if she doesn’t say it out loud, she would work harder to be less overwhelming when communicating with you.

✞⛧ As time passes, Sevika would subtly show that she’s learned to tone down her anger when she’s upset with you, recognizing that your emotional well-being is just as important as her need to be heard.

✞⛧ Even if the argument itself is unresolved, she’ll make sure the aftermath doesn’t leave you feeling like you’re walking on eggshells around her. If she needs to adjust her approach, she will, even if it takes time

✞⛧𝔸𝕞𝕓𝕖𝕤𝕤𝕒✞⛧

✞⛧ Ambessa would immediately notice the flinch, her sharp eyes narrowing with a flicker of concern. She’s not someone who misses details, especially when it comes to you.

✞⛧ Her first instinct would be to stop mid-sentence, her anger momentarily fading. She’s not used to seeing you afraid, and it causes a slight shift in her demeanor.

✞⛧ She’d take a deep breath, her voice lowering, no longer filled with the same intensity as before. “Did I scare you?” she’d ask, her tone surprisingly calm, but with a hint of vulnerability.

✞⛧ Ambessa is incredibly proud, so she’d try to mask her own unease. She’d raise an eyebrow, but there’s a subtle tension in her posture, as though she’s trying to figure out how to respond to your reaction.

✞⛧ She’d not apologize outright—Ambessa isn’t the type to back down from her beliefs—but she’d soften her approach, trying to gauge whether you’re physically okay or just emotionally shaken.

✞⛧ The moment she sees the flinch, a part of her feels a pang of guilt, though she wouldn’t admit it. Ambessa rarely shows vulnerability, so she’d struggle internally, not knowing how to reconcile this new layer of her relationship with you.

✞⛧ She would stop pacing or gesturing wildly, looking at you with a careful gaze. “You don’t need to be afraid of me,” she’d state, more as an assertion than a question, trying to convince herself just as much as you.

✞⛧ If you don’t say anything, Ambessa would grow increasingly frustrated with herself. She’s used to being the commanding presence in a room, but this is different. She doesn’t know how to fix it immediately.

✞⛧ Ambessa might take a step back, giving you space, though it’s clear she’s not used to this kind of emotional vulnerability. She’d cross her arms, trying to maintain her usual air of control, but she’s silently concerned about how much you’re affected.

✞⛧ She’d avoid making direct eye contact for a moment, visibly rethinking her words and actions. Ambessa is fiercely intelligent, and she’d be running through everything she just said, trying to pinpoint what made you flinch.

✞⛧ Ambessa might try to reassert her dominance in a different way, by sitting down or leaning against something, trying to display authority while simultaneously keeping her voice steady and calm. “This isn’t how I intended for this to go,” she’d admit quietly.

✞⛧ She’d attempt to approach you more carefully, though it’s clear she’s not quite sure how to be gentle. “Tell me what I did,” she’d ask, trying to understand why you reacted the way you did.

✞⛧ If you explain it’s not her fault but just the intensity of the argument, she’d frown deeply, taking that into account. Ambessa doesn’t like feeling misunderstood, but she would respect your honesty in this moment.

✞⛧ Ambessa would try to mask her emotions by shifting the conversation back to the issue at hand, but the tension in her body would remain. She’s used to arguing and controlling the situation, but this time it feels like she’s lost her grasp.

✞⛧ She’d likely keep the conversation civil afterward, but there would be an undercurrent of carefulness in her tone that wasn’t there before. She’d check in with you periodically, making sure you’re still okay.

✞⛧ Despite her initial reaction, she would be sensitive to any further signs of discomfort. Ambessa would be hyper-aware of your body language, making sure you’re not retreating or shrinking away from her.

✞⛧ If the argument continues, Ambessa would intentionally lower her tone, trying not to overwhelm you with her usual fire. She may even offer a compromise, though it’s a rare moment where she’s willing to soften her stance.

✞⛧ Ambessa is fiercely protective, so if she feels like she’s been too harsh, she might take a subtle step back from being confrontational and offer reassurance. “You’re important to me,” she’d say, though not in a way that’s overly affectionate.

✞⛧ She’s not quick to apologize, but in rare moments like this, she might drop her defenses just enough to show a softer side. “I didn’t mean to frighten you,” she’d admit quietly, her voice lacking its usual edge.

✞⛧ Ambessa would be conflicted. She knows her strength can be intimidating, but she also values loyalty and respect above all else. Seeing you flinch causes her to question if she’s gone too far in asserting herself.

✞⛧ If you try to walk away or distance yourself, Ambessa would stay rooted, allowing you space but not letting you escape the conversation entirely. She’d want to resolve things, but she’d give you the autonomy to handle the situation at your own pace.

✞⛧ She may change her approach entirely, opting for a more measured and less commanding tone. If she feels like she’s pushed too hard, she’ll shift back into a more controlled demeanor, but the worry will be evident in her eyes

✞⛧ Afterward, Ambessa might focus on actions over words. She would make sure you’re comfortable, making the effort to attend to your needs in practical ways, like preparing food or taking care of other responsibilities.

✞⛧ Her pride won’t let her completely back down, but she’ll make it known that she’s not a threat to you. “We’re not enemies,” she’d remind you with a subtle gesture of reassurance.

✞⛧ Despite being a formidable leader, Ambessa would be deeply shaken by your reaction. She’d want to reassure you of her commitment, even though she might not be the best at expressing it openly.

✞⛧ If the tension continues to linger, Ambessa might get frustrated with herself. She’s used to maintaining control, and being in a position where she’s unsure of how to fix things challenges her more than she’s willing to admit.

✞⛧ Ambessa would want to avoid you feeling like you’re walking on eggshells around her, so she might take extra care not to escalate things further. She would be cautious in her tone and actions, trying to bring down the tension.

✞⛧ If the argument comes up again in the future, Ambessa would be far more aware of her approach, actively trying to make sure that she doesn’t trigger another flinch from you. She’d try to use her words more carefully, even if that means holding back some of her usual fire.

✞⛧ Ambessa may not be used to showing this side of herself, but if you’re still upset or anxious, she would give you space to talk about it, even if it means dropping her pride to listen.

✞⛧ In her quieter moments, Ambessa might confide in you about her struggle with balancing strength and vulnerability. “I wasn’t raised to show weakness,” she’d admit, revealing a small crack in her otherwise impervious exterior

✞⛧ Ultimately, Ambessa would want to make sure you feel safe, heard, and respected. While she might still have moments of pride or dominance, she’ll take extra steps to show that she’s not going to harm you, emotionally or physically.

✞⛧ Though Ambessa may not say it out loud, seeing you flinch would make her reflect on her leadership style and the way she manages relationships. It would be a turning point for her in considering how she communicates with you.

[diekleinesuesse]

Being best friends with Ominis Gaunt:

Being best friends with Ominis Gaunt would be an intriguing experience. Ominis is a person who may come across as distant or cold at first, largely because of his family history and the weight of his last name. However, beneath his reserved demeanor lies a deeply loyal and caring friend.

A Friendship Built on Trust and Loyalty

Being best friends with Ominis Gaunt would be an experience that challenges your understanding of loyalty and trust. Ominis isn’t the type to wear his heart on his sleeve, and his natural inclination to keep his emotions guarded might make him appear distant at first. Growing up in the shadow of his infamous family, Ominis has developed a cautious, almost stoic nature. However, as his best friend, you would be one of the few people who get to witness a different side of him. Beneath his tough exterior, Ominis is deeply loyal, protective, and incredibly thoughtful.

Intellectual Conversations and Thoughtful Advice

One of the most engaging aspects of being close to Ominis is the intellectual connection you share. His sharp mind and deep knowledge of magic would make your friendship intellectually stimulating. Conversations with him are rarely mundane. Whether it’s about advanced spells, magical theory, or Hogwarts lore, Ominis can talk for hours, always keen to debate and offer insight. You’d find yourself constantly learning from him, whether you’re discussing potion-making or unraveling the history of the wizarding world. But it’s not just about knowledge Ominis’ perspective would make him an invaluable source of advice in times of trouble. He has a knack for reading between the lines and offering practical, if sometimes blunt, advice.

A Friend Who’s Always There, Even Without Words

While Ominis isn’t one for flowery speeches or grand gestures of affection, his support is unwavering. In moments of crisis, you’d feel his presence without him having to say a word. He may not be quick to share his feelings, but you’d come to understand that his way of caring is demonstrated in actions, not words. Whether it’s protecting you from the prejudices he faces as a Gaunt or simply standing by your side when you need it most, Ominis would always be there in his own quiet, steadfast way.

Breaking Down Walls Slowly but Surely

When it comes to Ominis, friendship isn’t something that’s quickly formed it’s earned. His experiences with betrayal and his family’s name have led him to be wary of close relationships. But once you’ve earned his trust, Ominis would become one of the most dependable friends you could ever have. He would open up to you about his personal struggles, especially when it comes to his complicated relationship with his family and his desire to be more than the Gaunt name. Your friendship would gradually allow him to break down the walls he’s built around himself, revealing his vulnerabilities and desires for a different future. In these moments, you would see just how deeply he values the few people who truly understand him.

Subtle Acts of Affection and Protection

Ominis has a unique way of showing he cares. Unlike some who might express their feelings through extravagant displays, he prefers the more subtle gestures. He may not always say the words, but his actions would always demonstrate his loyalty. He’s not afraid to stand up for you, even if it means going against the status quo. In times of need, Ominis would make sure you’re safe, even if it’s just offering a quiet word of encouragement when you’re feeling down. His protective nature means that, as his best friend, you would never feel alone even in the darkest of times.

The Comfort of Quiet Companionship

One of the unique aspects of being best friends with Ominis is the quiet companionship you would share. Ominis, though strong-willed, can often be introspective, and he values moments of peace. Your friendship would likely involve long walks around Hogwarts, perhaps heading to the library to work on homework, or simply sitting in comfortable silence as the two of you enjoy each other’s company. Even though he cannot see, Ominis has a remarkable ability to notice details through his other senses. Whether it’s the faint sounds of footsteps or the shift of air in a room, his heightened awareness makes him a keen observer, and he values these quiet moments with you more than anything.

A Bond That Challenges You to Grow

Being best friends with Ominis would push you to grow in ways you never expected. His strength and resilience in the face of adversity would inspire you to be better, to challenge your own limits. He would also encourage you to see the world from different perspectives, especially when it comes to understanding the complexities of identity, family, and legacy. Through your bond with Ominis, you would come to appreciate the importance of inner strength and the quiet, unspoken bonds that form over time.

A Friendship That Defies Expectations

At the heart of it, being friends with Ominis Gaunt is about defying expectations. He’s not someone you’d expect to be a warm, open friend, but once you break through the barriers, you realize just how much depth he has. Your friendship would be one built on shared experiences, quiet moments, and a mutual respect for each other’s strengths and weaknesses. In a world where magic can often seem overwhelming, Ominis would remind you that sometimes, the greatest power lies in the bonds we form with others.

[malakas-vihallas]

I have read a lot of Arcane analyses, so I would like to join in. I have noticed that the left side often dominates in the series. The left side symbolizes:

In Arcane, the left side appears to carry symbolic weight, often representing vulnerability, emotional depth, and the past. Throughout the series, characters are frequently framed or lit in ways that emphasize their left side during moments of inner conflict, nostalgia, or personal struggle.

Vulnerability & Emotional Struggle

The left side is often associated with the feminine principle (yin energy), which includes intuition, emotion, and receptivity.

The Past & Lingering Trauma

In storytelling, the left side is sometimes linked to the past, while the right side symbolizes the future.

Intuition & Inner Conflicts

Vi and Caitlyn’s interactions often frame Vi’s left side, possibly signifying her emotional shift and growing trust.

Characters seen from their left side may be in a state of introspection or emotional decision-making.

Physical & Emotional Scars

The left side is where many characters bear physical wounds each representing deep emotional wounds as well.

This visual storytelling technique connects physical pain to inner suffering.

The scars and injuries on the left side

Sitting, lying, standing, hugging

These are just few exapmles, theree are much more of them.

Like:

When Vi is so drunk that Loris had to help her to walk (Vi is holding onto Loris's left side).

When Jinx is protecting Isha while Vi is fighting against Vander/ Warwick in the dark (Jinx presses Isha against her left side).

Sevica also lost her left arm (then she got her machine arm).

Caitlyn punches Vi on the left side of her body (with the sniper).

A noxian soldier injures Vi's left side (and later Jinx hit Vi on the same spot).

Or in season 1 when Caitlyn and Vi are lying in the bed (Caitlyn is lying to the left of Vi).

This series is incredibly well-developed, thought-out, and detailed. That's why I love it so much.

Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions.

[aventurineswife]

Could I request the Astral Express trio (you can choose Stelle or Caelus) with a reader (GN) who is also a member of the Express who is like an older sibling? Reprimanding them when they get hurt, or comforting them when they're upset?

No One is Alone

Summary: Life aboard the Astral Express isn't just about fighting enemies or exploring new worlds—it's also about looking out for each other. As the team's older sibling figure, you take it upon yourself to reprimand Dan Heng and Stelle after they return from a mission injured. Through scolding, comforting, and heartfelt conversations, you remind them that they're part of a team and don't have to face their struggles alone.

Tags: Astral Express Trio x Reader, Platonic, Found Family, Hurt/Comfort, Sibling Dynamics, GN!Reader, Protective!Reader, Team Bonding, Angst with a Happy Ending.

Warnings: Mentions of injuries (non-graphic), Mild guilt/self-blame themes, Emotional vulnerability and introspection.

The hum of the Astral Express filled the air, a comforting backdrop to life aboard the interstellar train. You sat in the lounge, scanning over a datapad while keeping half an ear tuned to the faint commotion from the infirmary. It was a sound you'd become all too familiar with since joining the crew.

Dan Heng and Stelle—recovering from yet another scrape they shouldn't have gotten into.

The infirmary door swished open, and March peeked out, her expression torn between amusement and sympathy. "They're ready for the scolding..." she chirped.

You sighed, setting your datapad aside. Rising to your feet, you felt the weight of your role—neither a fighter nor a strategist, but the de facto big sibling of this unconventional family.

The scene in the infirmary was almost comical. Stelle sat on one of the cots, a bandage around her upper arm, her usual unbothered expression firmly in place. Dan Heng stood nearby, his arms crossed over his chest, looking stoic despite the gash on his shoulder that hadn't been there when the mission started.

"Care to explain?" you began, arms crossed and gaze level.

"It was just a minor miscalculation." Dan Heng replied calmly.

"A 'minor miscalculation' doesn't leave you bleeding, Dan Heng," you said pointedly, turning to Stelle. "And you—didn't I tell you to call for backup if things went south?"

Stelle gave a sheepish shrug. "I thought we could handle it."

"You thought wrong." You sighed, your tone softening as you crossed the room. Grabbing a chair, you sat between them, your expression gentler now. "I know you're both incredibly capable. But even the best make mistakes. You're part of a team—you don't have to shoulder everything alone."

Dan Heng's gaze flickered to the floor, and Stelle's shoulders slumped slightly.

"You don’t need to push yourself to the point of breaking to prove anything," you added, standing to place a reassuring hand on each of their shoulders. "We're in this together. If something happened to either of you, we’d all feel it. And you’d feel the same if it were March, right?"

Both nodded, though they didn’t meet your gaze.

"Good. Now, promise me you’ll call for help next time."

"Promise." Stelle said, a small smile tugging at her lips. Dan Heng gave a slight nod, his stoic mask cracking just enough for you to catch the faintest hint of guilt.

Later, in the privacy of the archive, you found Dan Heng surrounded by stacks of books. He looked up as you entered, his expression as composed as ever.

"You didn't just come here to read, did you?" you asked, pulling up a chair.

"...No," he admitted after a moment, his voice quiet. "I thought I could avoid putting others at risk by keeping things to myself. I didn’t think about how that might affect the team."

You smiled softly, resting a hand on his. "Dan Heng, you're not a burden. You're not just running from your past anymore—you’re building a future with all of us. And we need you to trust us enough to let us help."

He hesitated, then gave a small nod. "I'll try."

Later that evening, Stelle found you in the lounge, sitting with a warm drink. She plopped down beside you, her usual confidence dimmed by something you couldn’t quite place.

"You were right," she said, uncharacteristically subdued.

"About what?" you asked, setting your drink down.

"About asking for help." She stared at the floor for a moment before meeting your eyes. "I’m used to going it alone. But... it’s different with you guys. It’s like, I know you’ve got my back, and that’s scary because now I care. You know?"

You smiled, ruffling her hair like a younger sibling. "That’s not a bad thing, Stelle. Caring means you’re not just surviving anymore—you’re living."

She leaned into your side, her head on your shoulder. "Thanks, big sibling."

"Anytime," you said, wrapping an arm around her. "Just stop scaring me with the near-death experiences, okay?"

"I’ll try." she mumbled, and for now, that was enough.

(yonagi on X)

[dailydivination365]

No matter what you do, you feel the projects you've been building collapse. Regardless of the circumstances, you feel stuck. Almost like God or the universe have a vendetta against you.

Regardless, you seem full of ideas that could turn into something, but they never get past the beginning stages.

Upon further reflection, the output of work seems just too much. You can't handle it alone, and it's making progress impossible.

Fortunately, the answer is quite simple. There needs to be unification, whether that be from aspects within yourself or partnership with someone in the outside world.

This approach leads to rapid growth. Suddenly, there's a direction to follow, but it's not one that you can force.

Your favorable circumstances may lead to you being generously aided or giving generous aid to someone else. Finally, one of your projects may move forward.

However, you must sacrifice something to complete such a project and overcome the constant destruction. It may be the desire to actually complete a project.

You can be impatient in your approach. This makes progress extremely difficult because you're using too much force. A young idea cannot be subject to such force, or else it will break.

Ultimately, it's a calling to reflect on yourself. You are the reason you're not making any progress and constantly encounter disaster instead of the natural process of destruction to creation.

Look within yourself and understand your intentions. Why do you want to accomplish your goals? What makes you want to forcefully complete them so fast? These answers will lead you to a deeper understanding of yourself and finally break the cycle.

TAROT INFO:

The tower - reversed

Page of wands - reversed

8 of pentacles - reversed

2 of cups

8 of wands

6 of pentacles

The hanged man

Queen of Wands - reversed

The hermit

[indiestar]

Do I value our relationship? Certainly, everything's different.

[kaihnee]

unaware and brimming with joy, i set out to do something - anything. it doesn’t matter what. no matter how beautiful, comforting, or simple the act may be, the joy and peace only linger until i feel that familiar weight sink into my chest. it’s as if an unseen hand pulls a cord, setting a vessel above me into motion - a vessel that tips its contents over me. it isn’t water. it’s thick, viscous, an unyielding substance that envelops me, smothering the breath i already struggle to catch.

before i know it, i am trapped in its grip. that’s when the worrying begins. i start to fear that this mass will spread to the ones i love, that it will consume them as it has consumed me. i worry that something terrible will happen. and yet, deep down, i know these thoughts aren’t truly mine - they belong to the mass. it coils itself around me, seeps into every fiber of my being, spreading insidiously, trying to merge with me, to wrest control from me.

but is this really me? who unleashed this beast upon me?

in these moments, the questions remain unanswered. the only thoughts that fill my mind are dark and foreboding - visions of everything i know reduced to rubble and ash. i loathe this feeling, this grotesque and suffocating presence. is this what it means to confront the realization that i don’t hold control over everything? this constant, looming sense of impending doom that creeps in whenever life feels smooth and untroubled?

it keeps me bound in its grasp, tethering me to a state of being where i catch myself pulling that cord, willingly unleashing this substance upon myself. as much as i despise it, there’s a strange comfort in its embrace. its oppressive weight tricks me into believing it shields me - protecting me from the chaos of the outside world. it convinces me that it sharpens my senses, anchoring me in a place where i feel safe, a place where i no longer have to fear. for if i expect the worst while wrapped in its hold, then the worst can never surprise me.

and yet, it feels as though this mass cannot exist without me, as though its very survival depends on mine. it disgusts me. this bond is vile, suffocating. and still, we cannot seem to let go of each other.

[foreverevolvinghuman]

The Beauty of Imperfection in Human Connection

If there’s one thing I’ve learned while reflecting on life, it’s that human relationships are as paradoxical as we are. They’re beautifully messy, full of misunderstandings, quiet moments of repair, and the kind of growth that only happens when we face our imperfections together.

I’ve seen this in my own life. In my relationship with my fiancé, we’ve had our share of moments where we didn’t see eye to eye. But those challenges have taught us to listen more deeply, to find empathy even when it’s hard, and to lean into the messy work of loving each other fully. It’s not the perfect moments that have shaped us, It’s the imperfect ones that teach us who we are, who we choose to be.

This is true beyond romantic relationships. Think about friendships, family relationships, and even how we relate to ourselves. We stumble, we hurt one another, and we make mistakes. And yet, we also show up, forgive, and grow. It’s these very contradictions that make our connections so deeply human.

When I think about how this fits into everything else I’ve shared on this blog. The paradox of human nature, the heartbreak of loss, the joy of planning a wedding, I realize it all comes back to the same thing: our ability to navigate life’s contradictions. We’re flawed, yet we create beauty. We lose, but we still love. We aren’t perfect, and yet we find joy in connection.

So here’s to the messy, imperfect relationships that fill our lives. They may not always be easy, but they teach us what it means to truly love and be loved.

What do you think?

What’s one moment in a relationship romantic, platonic, or family, where imperfection led to something unexpectedly beautiful? Maybe it was a funny misunderstanding that brought laughter or a mistake that taught you something meaningful. I’d love to hear your stories or reflections! Feel free to share the little moments that make connection so deeply human.

[sunnyanddumb98]

ODE TO SOFIA

Sofia sits to my left in the office. It is big, but we crumple. That makes us close, at least in distance.

Sofia likes horror and dresses in full black. Her favorite color is pink, she hates yellow because it’s too bright, too happy, leaves no space for much else.

I really admire her. She is an enthusiast for cooking and reading, collecting figurines, and making perfect gifts: baskets with your favorite character plushie, sewn by hand. She sends you a birthday cake to your new apartment in Japan. She is considerate and remembers everything I say.

Sofia is violent. She tells the truth. Diplomacy exhausts her; she wants more. She is angry at people she has never met. She is happy when someone expresses their rage.

When I think about her, the sound of my sister’s giggles comes to mind, in the backseat of my parents’ car, listening to Mr. Jones by Sui Generis for the first time.

She likes gore and blood, but she rejects the passive violence of societal expectations. Day to day, she fears the real horrors of self-destructive, evasive methods. She is soft and sweet.

She is critical thinking skills, getting kicked out of class for laughing way too hard. The pride of growing up when no one is watching. Learning something basic as a full-grown adult, in a quiet street on a Wednesday morning. all alone.

It is the strength you need to protect your identity. It is showing your new sneakers to everyone. Forehead kisses to say goodbye to your friends. Going shopping in pajamas for fresh morning bread. It is the wonderful thing we find in the dark, hidden away from the horrors of the light and polite.

Catching a complicit smile at a funeral. The catharsis after breaking your favorite vase. Spending your last penny on a mistake. The friendship I form with my paralysis demon. A scared kid ready to attack. A tale, a hug, a cookie, and we both say good nigth.

The moment you are forgiven after screaming. Being loved after being wrong, mistaken. The comprehension only a child has: to cry over the doomed one— the serial killer and the rapist, the goner — not for their imminent death, but for prohibiting themselves a slow day, a warm afternoon in bed, tea, toast, and a good book to read.

[in-tenebris-et-in-solitudine]

You bring good to my lonely life, honestly, It's hard for me to look into your eyes, When I say that I would be nothing without your love, I feel the rush, and it's amazing.

[thewritehaven]

"I'm an unbridled river, constantly overflowing my banks and nourishing the lives of those around me. I'm unbound by boundaries, recklessly pouring out my waters until I'm drained, never pausing to replenish myself."

— alterego🪐 {M.J.}

[antonettewrites]

Ask me why I'm holding back, go on...

I want you to feel the intensity of my emotions, yet I fear you might run away.

I want to tell you that holding you felt like second nature, and letting go was against my will.

I want to tell you how I can and I will marvel at you, and looking away feels like a mistake I never want to make.

How being in your silence, gives me peace yet it also drags me into a pit of noise.

How your very presence offers the hope I've longed for and the misery I've been trying to avoid.

You are the duality that consumes my every breath.

Living in this gray area is killing me, and I'm unsure how much longer I can hold on.

How do I go on when I don't feel you pulling back, yet I can't feel you stepping forward

[the-casbah-way]

sorry for taking ages with down then left. i have lost all confidence in my writing style and i'm trying to clutch at the remnants of it with desperate trembling hands. you know how it is

[pepperpixel]

Hello! I watched your speedpaints on repeat when I was in middle school (like 6 years ago) and sometimes still go back and watch them for the sake of nostalgia and good music. I just wanted to let you know you’ve touched my life and left a print, thank you 🤍

Thank you. So so much. For sending me this??? The me who made all those youtube videos. Doesn’t exist anymore. Life got harder. In so many new and horrible ways. And that like. Spark to create kinda died. And also I had more important shit to worry about all of a sudden. But. Knowing that it left on impact on someone enough to send me a message. Years after I’ve stopped making them tho. Idk.. that means something.. I appreciate you didn’t forget about me! (/my videos lol. I kno u don’t kno me. My vids and art feel a bit like. An extension of me tho? In a way. But I kno that it’s not a 1:1 thing. My art an videos express thoughts ideas and feelings of mine. But they are not. Me. Just lil slivers of me.. Tiny lil portions from specific moments in time.)

Sometimes it feels like those videos were just a flash in the pan. A brief moment of attention and fame I didn’t grab onto hard enough… and now the moments long gone. but. I didn’t rlly want to grab onto it, I just wanted to make fun videos. And show off my music taste lol. And express. The music videos my brain would create in my head into the real world. And then I got too busy w real life kicking my ass. (Ps. life has now stopped kicking my ass!! It’s gotten better. Just. Not the same as it was before) Maybe I’ll get back into it one day. If I have any new ideas. Once I get stable and know what I’m doing. And get like an iPad or something so I don’t have to wrangle w my laptop lol. But yeah!!! Srry.. I’m rambling a lot.. this message just made me emotional ok! I’m being openly vulnerable in turn hopefully that’s not too weird lol. I’m happy my videos had an impact on your life!! That means. A fucking ton. Like. Words cannot properly express the weird happy feeling that gives me in my heart. Thank you so much!! For real!!! Srry for getting all in depth about my life again this message just!!! Struck an introspective chord w me!!!

[aventurineswife]

Could I request Kinich with a reader who makes toys for children and saurians? Imagine one day, she decides to make Kinich a collection of saurian plushies so he won't be lonely.

A Stitch for Solitude

Summary: Kinich spends his days perched in solitude atop a tree, observing the wilds of Natlan. Despite his detached demeanor, he carries an unspoken loneliness. You, a skilled toymaker, notice his quiet yearning and craft a collection of saurian plushies to bring him warmth and connection.

Tags: Kinich x Reader, Fluff, Mutual Pining, Gift-Giving, Emotional Vulnerability, Quiet Introspection, Slow Burn Connection, Soft Moments.

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm golden hue over Natlan as the soft breeze rustled the leaves. Kinich sat alone on the sturdy branches of an ancient tree, gazing out over the vast, untamed landscape. His expression, as always, was unreadable, his posture calm and steady, yet there was an unmistakable solitude to him. He was content with his own company, though a part of him, deep down, could never quite escape the quiet sting of loneliness.

Despite his pragmatic nature, there were moments—rare, fleeting moments—when even Kinich couldn't help but wonder what it would feel like to have someone to share his solitude with. To have something more than the cold, utilitarian world he had built for himself.

As the days passed, you noticed him more often, perched high in the tree, staring into the distance. You’d often see him surrounded by the wild beauty of the mountains, yet there was something about him that felt... detached, as though he was observing the world rather than truly participating in it.

You, on the other hand, were the opposite. A weaver of stories, a creator of joy. The toys you made were renowned throughout the tribe, not only for their craftsmanship but for their charm. The children adored them, and even the saurians seemed to take interest in the playful creations you fashioned from clay, wood, and fur.

One evening, as you worked on a new set of toys for the younger ones, an idea began to take root in your mind. Kinich. The thought wouldn’t leave you. He was always alone, always distant, and yet… there was something about his quiet nature that intrigued you. Perhaps it was the way he carefully observed life around him, as though taking mental notes, even when it seemed like he wasn’t paying attention.

What if… what if you made him something? Something to remind him that he wasn’t as alone as he believed.

The next day, you set to work. You gathered materials: soft furs, durable threads, clay, and small stones to make the eyes. With each stitch, you focused on the saurians that Kinich so often hunted, each one an elegant representation of the creatures he had spent his life mastering. You created small plush versions of these fierce creatures—saurians with bared teeth, with soft, rounded bodies and bright, expressive eyes. Each one was unique, just like the animals he encountered in the wild.

Days passed, and you worked in secret, stitching and stuffing each plush until you had a small collection. When the last plush was complete, you felt a sense of accomplishment, but also a tinge of nervousness. Would Kinich like them? Would he understand the gesture?

You didn’t know what prompted you to do it—perhaps it was the way his eyes sometimes lingered on the children’s toys when they passed by, or the way he seemed to carry an unspoken weight—but you knew that this was something you needed to do.

That evening, as Kinich once again perched in his usual spot in the tree, you approached him, holding the small bundle of plushies carefully in your arms. The sunset bathed everything in a soft orange light, and the world felt quieter, as though nature itself was holding its breath.

“Kinich,” you called softly, approaching him.

He turned, his eyes briefly scanning you before settling on the bundle you carried. “What is it?” he asked, his tone as direct and to-the-point as always, though there was an undercurrent of curiosity.

You smiled, a little shy, but steady. “I made something for you.”

You climbed up beside him on the branches and carefully placed the collection of saurian plushies on the tree bark. Each one was carefully crafted—an imposing Saurian with spiked scales, a smaller, more agile one with bright eyes, and a fearsome, larger creature with a tail that curled protectively around its body.

Kinich’s eyes narrowed slightly as he observed the toys, his usual guarded expression softening just a fraction. He reached out, running his fingers over the smooth fur of one of the plushies. “For me?” he asked, his voice quieter now, as if the question itself caught him off guard.

You nodded, feeling your heart race. “I thought... maybe these could keep you company. You’re always out there alone, hunting, or on your travels. I thought you might like something to remind you that you don’t have to be lonely.”

There was a long pause, and for a moment, Kinich didn’t say anything. He merely stared at the plushies, his fingers brushing over each one with an almost reverent care. It was the most open you’d ever seen him, and it made your heart ache in the best way.

Finally, he spoke, his voice quieter than usual, the edges of it almost... vulnerable. “Why did you make these for me?” he asked, still not quite meeting your gaze.

You shrugged, though your heart felt full. “I just... thought you might like them. I thought maybe you could use something soft and warm to come home to. Something... that’s not cold or calculated. Just something that’s there for you.”

Kinich’s gaze flickered to the plushies once more, his eyes lingering on them with a softness you rarely saw. He picked one up—a small saurian with its mouth slightly open—and held it in his hand, turning it over as if examining it. “You didn’t have to,” he said, the words almost too quiet to catch.

You smiled, your voice gentle. “I wanted to.”

For a long moment, there was only the soft rustle of the wind around you. Kinich’s gaze remained fixed on the plushies, but there was something in the way he held them now—a new tenderness that wasn’t there before. Perhaps it was the weight of the gesture, or perhaps it was the realization that someone had thought of him in a way he had never expected.

Finally, he spoke again, this time with a faint, almost imperceptible smile on his lips. “Thank you, [Name].” The words were simple, but they held a sincerity that made your heart skip a beat.

You nodded, feeling warmth spread through your chest at the acknowledgment. “You’re welcome, Kinich. I’m glad you like them.”

He looked at you then, really looked at you, his eyes soft with something unspoken. “I won’t be lonely anymore,” he said quietly, as if the plushies had somehow bridged a gap he hadn’t even realized was there.

And in that moment, you realized something you hadn’t expected: Kinich wasn’t as cold and distant as he seemed. Beneath the utilitarian exterior, beneath the pragmatism and the stoic demeanor, there was a quiet longing for connection. A connection that, in his own way, he was beginning to accept.

As the night settled in and the stars began to twinkle overhead, you sat in companionable silence on the branches, the plushies between you, and for the first time, Kinich didn’t seem quite so alone.

And you, too, felt the comfort of knowing that, for once, you weren’t alone either.

[tayonces]

hmmmm idk how to word this properly but why do people act like being apathetic should be the default for the outer and if you do show an emotion that shows something other than being deeply impacted, you get scolded? it’s okay to be vulnerable, even more so when it’s an interpersonal relationship. that makes you human and more relatable. acting like nothing hurts is worse