#felicity would be big on online so she make the most comments

[angelfireeast]

Westallen Wedding Weeks Day 6: Day of the wedding -> Social media AU

[lastsonlost]

Comedian Ricky Gervais is clearly enjoying himself as he rides the outrage wave from his fan-loved and Hollywood-loathed performance as the host of the Golden Globes Sunday night. After gaining hundreds of thousands of followers as a result of his celebrity slamming performance, Gervais took a moment early Wednesday to provide a helpful list of reminders about humor for his “offended” critics — many of whom happen to be journalists, who Gervais also made sure to mock.

In his instantly famous opening remarks at the awards show Sunday (transcript below), Gervais announced that it was his “last time” hosting the show and then promptly proceeded to do what so many viewers have been longing for a host to do: put virtue-signaling Hollywood in its place. “Let’s go out with a bang, let’s have a laugh at your expense,” he said at the start. “Remember, they’re just jokes. We’re all gonna die soon and there’s no sequel, so remember that.” After calling out Hollywood hypocrisy — including on sexual misconduct, corporate corruption and human rights abuses — Gervais ended his blistering opening statement by telling all the winners, “If you win, come up, accept your little award, thank your agent, and your God and f*** off, OK?”

His brutal rebuke of Hollywood was met with predictable outrage from many, including media figures and journalists, which Gervais pointed out in one tweet Tuesday.

“I always knew that there were morons in the world that took jokes seriously, but I’m surprised that some journalists do,” he wrote (tweet below). “Surely, understanding stuff is pretty fundamental to their job, isn’t it?” He ended the post by twisting the knife: “Just makes it funnier though, I guess.”

Early Wednesday, Gervais felt compelled to help out some of those particularly suffering from a case of perpetual offense by offering a list of reminders about how humor works and doesn’t work:

1#. Simply pointing out whether someone is left or right wing isn’t winning the argument.

2#. If a joke is good enough, it can be enjoyed by ANYONE!

3#. IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT YOU!

4#. Just because you’re offended, doesn’t mean you’re right.

As The Daily Wire reported, Gervais spent Monday after the Globes having fun at his critics’ expense online, ridiculing responses to his performance from The Los Angeles Times, The Hollywood Reporter and The Independent, along with the very show he hosted.

Among his posts was one in which he slammed those calling him “right wing.” “How the f*** can teasing huge corporations, and the richest, most privileged people in the world be considered right wing?” he tweeted (post below).

He also made a point of thanking his hundred of thousands of new followers. “Welcome to the 300,000 new followers I acquired today. I promise you won’t like everything I say, but here’s a sexy photo,” he wrote.

Gervais continued to hit his critics on Tuesday, including retweeting a defense of his Golden Globes jokes by Second Amendment champion Dana Loesch, who called The Independent’s condemnation of Gervais “garbage.”

“Oh garbage,” Loesch wrote. “[Ricky Gervais] demonstrated that good comedians go after everyone. No one should be safe, but the prevailing thought these past 10+ years is that one group IS exempt. They can lecture from the stage but he can’t mock their inconsistencies? You prove his point.”

<I mean if calling out corrupt corporations and the super rich is right wing then I guess the right wing is better at being liberal than liberals.

Below is the transcript of Gervais’ opening comments at the Golden Globes:

You’ll be pleased to know this is the last time I’m hosting these awards, so I don’t care anymore. I’m joking. I never did. I’m joking, I never did. NBC clearly don’t care either — fifth time. I mean, Kevin Hart was fired from the Oscars for some offensive tweets — hello?

Lucky for me, the Hollywood Foreign Press can barely speak English and they’ve no idea what Twitter is, so I got offered this gig by fax. Let’s go out with a bang, let’s have a laugh at your expense. Remember, they’re just jokes. We’re all gonna die soon and there’s no sequel, so remember that.

But you all look lovely all dolled up. You came here in your limos. I came here in a limo tonight and the license plate was made by Felicity Huffman. No, shush. It’s her daughter I feel sorry for. OK? That must be the most embarrassing thing that’s ever happened to her. And her dad was in Wild Hogs.

Lots of big celebrities here tonight. Legends. Icons. This table alone — Al Pacino, Robert DeNiro … Baby Yoda. Oh, that’s Joe Pesci, sorry. I love you man. Don’t have me whacked. But tonight isn’t just about the people in front of the camera. In this room are some of the most important TV and film executives in the world. People from every background. They all have one thing in common: They’re all terrified of Ronan Farrow. He’s coming for ya. Talking of all you perverts, it was a big year for pedophile movies. Surviving R. Kelly, Leaving Neverland, Two Popes. Shut up. Shut up. I don’t care. I don’t care.

Many talented people of color were snubbed in major categories. Unfortunately, there’s nothing we can do about that. Hollywood Foreign press are all very racist. Fifth time. So. We were going to do an In-Memoriam this year, but when I saw the list of people who died, it wasn’t diverse enough. No, it was mostly white people and I thought, nah, not on my watch. Maybe next year. Let’s see what happens.

No one cares about movies anymore. No one goes to cinema, no one really watches network TV. Everyone is watching Netflix. This show should just be me coming out, going, “Well done Netflix. You win everything. Good night.” But no, we got to drag it out for three hours. You could binge-watch the entire first season of Afterlife instead of watching this show. That’s a show about a man who wants to kill himself cause his wife dies of cancer and it’s still more fun than this. Spoiler alert, season two is on the way so in the end he obviously didn’t kill himself. Just like Jeffrey Epstein. Shut up. I know he’s your friend but I don’t care.

Seriously, most films are awful. Lazy. Remakes, sequels. I’ve heard a rumor there might be a sequel to Sophie’s Choice. I mean, that would just be Meryl just going, “Well, it’s gotta be this one then.” All the best actors have jumped to Netflix, HBO. And the actors who just do Hollywood movies now do fantasy-adventure nonsense. They wear masks and capes and really tight costumes. Their job isn’t acting anymore. It’s going to the gym twice a day and taking steroids, really. Have we got an award for most ripped junky? No point, we’d know who’d win that.

Martin Scorsese made the news for his controversial comments about the Marvel franchise. He said they’re not real cinema and they remind him about theme parks. I agree. Although I don’t know what he’s doing hanging around theme parks. He’s not big enough to go on the rides. He’s tiny. The Irishman was amazing. It was amazing. It was great. Long, but amazing. It wasn’t the only epic movie. Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, nearly three hours long. Leonardo DiCaprio attended the premiere and by the end his date was too old for him. Even Prince Andrew was like, “Come on, Leo, mate. You’re nearly 50-something.”

The world got to see James Corden as a fat pussy. He was also in the movie Cats. No one saw that movie. And the reviews, shocking. I saw one that said, “This is the worst thing to happen to cats since dogs.” But Dame Judi Dench defended the film saying it was the film she was born to play because she loves nothing better than plunking herself down on the carpet, lifting her leg and licking her pussy. (Coughs) Hairball. She’s old-school.

It’s the last time, who cares? Apple roared into the TV game with The Morning Show, a superb drama about the importance of dignity and doing the right thing, made by a company that runs sweatshops in China. Well, you say you’re woke but the companies you work for in China — unbelievable. Apple, Amazon, Disney. If ISIS started a streaming service you’d call your agent, wouldn’t you?

So if you do win an award tonight, don’t use it as a platform to make a political speech. You’re in no position to lecture the public about anything. You know nothing about the real world. Most of you spent less time in school than Greta Thunberg.

So if you win, come up, accept your little award, thank your agent, and your God and fuck off, OK? It’s already three hours long. Right, let’s do the first award.

[samwisethewitch]

✨🏳️‍🌈 Deities, Saints, Crystals, and Herbs For All Your Gay Magick Needs 🏳️‍🌈✨

Note: This was originally posted on my blog, themysticbitch.wordpress.com.

Happy Pride Month, my loves! June is upon us, which means it’s all gay, all the time for the next few weeks. Being queer is a big part of my life and my identity, so I wanted to do something special for Pride. The end result was my most recent video, which you can watch here.

In that video, I try to get through a ton of information in as little time as possible, so I decided to post a written version here for anyone who wants a more solid starting point for incorporating these deities, saints, herbs, and crystals into their own practice. I’ve tried to be as inclusive as possible here — if I’ve missed something that seems obvious to you, please let me know in a comment so I can update the list!

Spiritual Patrons For LGBTQ+ Folks

Patrons For WLW:

Artemis (Greek goddess): Artemis is considered a “virgin” goddess, but it’s important to note that the word “virgin” had a different meaning in Ancient Greek culture. The one thing we know about Artemis for sure is that she was not romantically interested in men, for whatever reason. Artemis swore never to marry or have sex with a man, and she lead the Hunters of Artemis, a group of all-women warriors who spent their days hunting and roaming the forest. She is associated with the moon, archery, the forest, and the hunt. Some of her common symbols are bows and arrows, stags, hunting dogs, and the moon. She was worshiped by the Romans as Diana.

Freyja (Norse goddess): Freyja is a Scandinavian goddess of sex and sexuality, as well as sorcery, wealth, war, and death. I decided to include Freyja in this list because she is associated with sex and sexuality, especially of women, but is not associated with pregnancy or motherhood like many other sex goddesses are — her children are rarely mentioned in the surviving myths. All we know about her husband is that he was lost, leaving Freyja single for all intents and purposes. She is noted for being bold in her sexual pursuits, sleeping with whoever she pleased. She is a goddess for any woman who wants to get in touch with her femininity and sexual power, regardless of sexuality. Some of Freyja’s common symbols are gold, amber, cats, and falcons.

Saints Perpetua and Felicity (Catholic saints): Perpetua and Felicity were African Christians who were persecuted by the occupying Roman government for their faith. Perpetua was a noblewoman — Felicity was one of her slaves. The two women were arrested together and sentenced to prison — eventually they were publicly executed. Some of Perpetua’s letters to family and friends survived, so we actually have a firsthand account of her imprisonments. From these letters it is clear that Perpetua and Felicity were very close, and historians have long speculated that they may have been romantically involved. Today they are considered unofficial patron saints of same-sex couples, especially women. You can buy medals and prayer cards for both of these saints from online Catholic stores. Like all Catholic saints, they can be honored with a white candle and/or Three Kings incense (this is the incense blend used by churches).

Patrons For MLM:

Apollo (Greek god): Apollo was the twin brother of Artemis, and has a similar history with the LGBTQ+ community. The Ancient Greeks had a very fluid attitude towards sexuality, but today we would probably classify Apollo as either bisexual or pansexual. There are myths that explicitly mention him having male lovers. Apollo was very close with his sister, Artemis — perhaps an early example of MLM/WLW solidarity? Apollo is associated with the sun, prophecy, healing, and the arts, especially music and poetry. Some of his symbols include the lyre, a laurel wreath, a bow and arrow, and a python. He was also worshiped by the Romans.

Freyr (Norse god): Funnily enough, we have another brother/sister pair. Freyr was the brother of Freyja, and he shared her association with sex and abundance. Freyr was a primarily agricultural god, and was believed to bring spring rains to nourish the growing crops. One of his strongest associations was with male sexuality — in fact, he was often depicted in art with a giant, erect penis! Like his sister, Freyr was more associated with the act of sex itself than when what comes after. Freyr is an excellent god for any man looking to get in touch with his own masculine power, regardless of sexuality. Some of his symbols are a boar, a ship, and a phallus.

Saint Sebastian (Catholic saint): Saint Sebastian has long been considered an unofficial patron of gay men, and the story behind this association is a wild ride. Unlike Saints Perpetua and Felicity, there is no historical evidence that Sebastian was queer. He was a martyr, and according to legend he was executed by being bound to a tree and shot with arrows. When the Plague hit Europe, Sebastian was often called upon for protection — this was the beginning of his popularity as a saint. Baroque artists created a lot (like, A LOT) of paintings of Sebastian that depicted him as a beautiful, muscular young man, clad in a loin cloth, gazing passionately up at Heaven as he was pierced with arrows. As you might imagine, he became something of a sex symbol. In fact, Sebastian became so popular with the gay men of Italy that he had his own cult! You can buy medals, prayer cards, and candles dedicated to Saint Sebastian, and again, he can be honored with a white candle and/or Three Kings incense.

Nonbinary and Genderfluid Patrons

Loki (Norse god): Technically, Loki is a jötunn (a frost giant), not a god, although he was formerly allied with the Aesir and lived in Asgard. Loki was a shapeshifter, and was known to take female forms as well as male. In fact, he once took the form of a female horse and gave birth to a foal! Loki is probably one of the most explicit examples of a genderfluid deity in European mythology. However, some pagans choose not to work with Loki. He is sometimes considered a “negative” god because of his association with mischief and chaos, and because he ultimately betrayed the Aesir. It is up to you whether to work with him or not, although I would definitely advise you not to bring Loki into a circle with any of the Aesir.

Odin (Norse god): The common image of Odin in pop culture is of a fierce warrior-king, but this is not historically accurate. Odin was often depicted as an old man in traveler’s clothes, and he was associated with several cultural taboos. Though he is definitely identified as masculine, Odin ruled magick, which was considered feminine in Scandinavian culture — it was dishonorable for a man to practice such “woman’s work.” Odin knew that some things transcend gender, and he is a wonderful patron for anyone looking to break away from traditional gender roles. Besides magick, he rules war, strategy, death, astral travel, and knowledge. Some of Odin’s symbols are ravens, wolves, his spear, and his armband. I personally burn mugwort incense when working with Odin. He was also worshiped by Germanic and Anglo-Saxon peoples as Wodan.

Archangel Gabriel (an angel honored in Christianity, Judaism, and Islam): Gabriel is usually identified with masculine pronouns, and “Gabriel” has became a common man’s name in many countries — but in art, Archangel Gabriel is often depicted with feminine features, and sometimes even with a clearly feminine body. This is because Gabriel is strongly associated with the Divine Feminine and with feminine energy in general. Gabriel rules pregnancy and female reproductive disorders, and is responsible for the care of children. He is also associated with the moon, a common symbol of goddess energy. Angels have no true gender, so they are all androgynous in nature, but Gabriel is especially so. Because of this, he is an excellent patron for nonbinary people. Some of Gabriel’s common symbols are a trumpet, a white lily, the moon, and water. Incenses associated with him are frankincense and camphor.

Honorable Mention: Santa Muerte (Mexican deity/folk saint): Santa Muerte may not be trans, nonbinary, or genderfluid herself, but she’s a fascinating figure and deserves a place on this list. Nuestra Señora de la Santa Muerte (“Our Lady of the Holy Death”) is a personification of death, and is called on for healing and protection by her followers. What is especially interesting is that Santa Muerte is considered a protector of all outcasts from society, including all LGBTQ+ people and especially transgender people. She is even invoked in same-sex marriage ceremonies in some parts of Mexico! Her worship has recently spread to the United States, with churches dedicated to her in California and New Orleans. You can buy statues and altar candles in her image. Common incenses for honoring Santa Muerte include copal, myrrh, and rose.

UPDATE: I’ve been told that worship of Santa Muerte is part of a closed cultural tradition, and is therefore not open to people outside of Mexican and Mexican American culture. I’m leaving her in this post because I still find her story uplifting, but I do ask all of my followers to please be respectful of this beautiful goddess and her cultural roots. I think we can find hope in her role as a pro-LGBTQ+ deity, while respecting that she is not ours to worship or work with. 

Correspondences For LGBTQ+ Issues in Meditation and Spellwork

As I mentioned in one of my previous YouTube videos, magick is the act of manipulating the spiritual energy that permeates the universe. Every part of the natural world, including plants and minerals, has a different type of energy associated with it. If you want to connect with a certain energy (like the energy of romance, for example), you can surround yourself with things that correspond to that energy to make the connection easier.

A lot of the love spells that I’ve been able to find online use correspondences that have a strong association with straight romance. Obviously, some symbols are universal, but I wanted to find some correspondences that can specifically be used for manifesting same-sex romantic relationships. Here’s what my research turned up:

Correspondences For Love Between Two Women:

Rose Quartz: Rose quartz is considered the stone of unconditional love, and it can be used universally to attract love of all kinds, not just romantic. I think this crystal could be especially useful for women seeking a feminine partner, because it has a very strong feminine energy. Rose quartz is also strongly associated with self-love, and teaches us the important lesson that the best way to attract love is to start by loving ourselves. You could incorporate it into a love spell, wear it as jewelry, or meditate with it to align yourself with its loving energy.

Moonstone: Sometime’s called “the woman’s stone,” moonstone is very strongly associated with womanhood and with feminine sexuality. It is said to attract love and to increase passion in existing relationships. Unlike many other crystals associated with sex, moonstone has a very peaceful energy and can be used to calm anxiety or to soothe tense situations. Moonstone is a great stone for any woman looking to reconnect with her feminine power, or for increasing passion in an existing relationship between two women.

Violets: Violets have been associated with romantic love between women since the Ancient Greek poet Sappho of Lesbos (from whom we get the words “lesbian” and ‘sapphic”) used them as a symbol in poems dedicated to her female lover. In the Victorian era, queer women would give their lovers bouquets of violets instead of roses. (In the Victorian “language of flowers,” violets represent faithfulness.) In magick, violets are used to attract love and to increase luck in romantic endeavors. They are also edible — why not brew a violet tea and drink it as a love potion?

Correspondences For Love Between Men

Malachite: In many ways, malachite is the masculine counterpart to rose quartz. Despite its strongly masculine energy, malachite is deeply healing and works to open and unblock our heart chakra, as well as to heal any heartbreaks we may not quite have gotten over. Malachite is also considered the “salesman’s stone,” and can be used for situations where you are trying to “sell yourself” to a potential lover by giving a good first impression. Some people are afraid to use malachite because it is “toxic” — although it does contain copper, which can cause health problems if consumed in high amounts, wearing malachite or holding it against the skin is definitely not enough exposure to cause an issue. As long as you don’t eat your malachite or dissolve it in water, you will be fine.

Red Jasper: This is a wonderful stone for men looking to recharge their sexual energy, or to spice up an existing relationship. Jasper in general is associated with courage and charm, and for this reason it is often recommended to people involved in the performing arts, like actors and singers. Red jasper has a strong masculine energy, and is associated with the root chakra and our connection to the earth. Red jasper is an excellent stone to work with if you are dealing with sexual anxiety, or anxiety over being open about your sexuality. Meditate with it to feel more grounded, courageous, and stable.

Green Carnation: Although the connection between green carnation and queer men is not as ancient as the connection between violets and queer women, it is still well established. Oscar Wilde, who was openly gay, is said to have begun the trend of wearing a green carnation as a signal that he was seeking a man as a lover. Other men in Victorian England began to follow the trend, and the association still stands. In magick, carnation is said to enhance creativity and magickal power. Since it acts as an amplifier for other magickal energies, a green carnation can make any love spell more effective, especially for men seeking men.

Crystals and Herbs For Trans and Nonbinary Folks

Note: I said this in my video, but I feel like it bears repeating here — magick is not a replacement for mental healthcare. If you are struggling with gender dysphoria, I strongly encourage you to seek professional counseling if at all possible. None of the herbs, crystals, or spells mentioned below (or anywhere in this post) are intended as a replacement for medical or psychiatric treatment. If you are already taking medication of any kind, be sure to research potential interactions before ingesting any herb for magic or holistic purposes.

Chrysocolla (for trans and nb women): I first learned about chrysocolla from an episode of the Fat Feminist Witch podcast called “Not Every Goddess Has a Sacred Womb.” That episode discussed issues with equating womanhood to motherhood (or even just to having a uterus), and chrysocolla was brought up as a crystal with strong feminine energy that wasn’t tied to uterine health. This is a great stone to meditate with to get in touch with your own goddess energy, without any biological associations. Chrysocolla is also strongly associated with new beginnings, which may make it a useful spiritual tool for anyone who is just coming out of the closet.

Green Tourmaline (for trans and nb men): Much like malachite, green tourmaline is strongly associated both with masculine energy and with the heart chakra. It is a stone of masculine authority, and can be used either to get in touch with your own power or to help in overcoming emotional issues related to a father figure in your past. Tourmaline in general is said to convert negative energy into positive, which makes it ideal for overcoming any difficult situation.

Damiana (for trans and nb men AND women): Known by the scientific name Turnera diffusa, damiana is currently being clinically studied for its ability to balance hormones in all sexes. In holistic healing, damiana is commonly used to treat sexual problems — this is another one that may be useful for increasing sexual confidence. It is also said to help relieve anxiety and to decrease stress. Damiana is available both as herbal supplements and as a tea.

Angelica or Dong Quai (for trans and nb women): These are two different names for Angelica sinensis, which has been used in folk medicine for hundreds of years. It is often used to relieve symptoms of menopause because it increases estrogen levels when taken regularly. Angelica is also a powerful magickal herb, and is popular in American folk magick. It is sometimes associated with Archangel Gabriel, who I mentioned earlier, and is used for protection and healing. Angelica is available in teas and supplements, though it is usually marketed as “dong quai” in these forms.

Ginger (for trans and nb men): Lab studies found that ginger significantly increased testosterone levels in male rats. Human studies are still underway, but the research that has been done indicates similar benefits for humans. In magick, ginger is considered a magickal “power up” of sorts, and is often added to spells to add power or to speed up results. You can use ginger to increase your own masculine power, and to infuse yourself with a little bit of its sweet and spicy energy. Ginger is available both as a supplement and in teas, and of course it can be used in cooking.

This ended up being a way bigger project than I originally planned, but my research turned up so much good information that I wanted to share. I hope that some of this is helpful to all of my fellow gay witches out there, and I hope that you all have a magickal and blessed Pride Month.

P.S. I’ve actually written three different love spells based on this research. One is for men seeking men, one is for women seeking women, and one is for people who either don’t associate strongly with any one gender or don’t care about the gender of their partner. I was going to include those spells in this post but after seeing just how much info I had to cram in, I decided to give them their own post. You can find those spells here.

[smkkbert]

Time for a story - When you know

As soon as Felicity had gotten out of her car, she saw Laurel standing in front of the large shop windows of the bridal boutique. She was sitting on the hood of her own car, looking at the five wedding dresses that were exhibited in the shop windows. Except of a fond smile, a deep frown was visible on her face though. She didn’t look like the happy bride-to-be she should be.

Locking her car, Felicity strolled over to Laurel. Her friend and stepsister – at least almost – flashed her a brief glance before she turned back to look at the show windows. A long sigh fell from her lips, making Felicity frown as she sat down next to her on the hood of the car.

Felicity gave Laurel the time she probably needed. Hence, instead of saying anything, she just followed Laurel’s gaze towards the shop windows and looked at the wedding dresses.

Pursing her lips, Felicity realized that they were quite different from all the three wedding dresses she had gotten married in so far. Admittedly, two of her dresses had been maternity dresses as her second wedding had taken place while she had been pregnant with Tommy and she had gotten married to Oliver a third time while being pregnant with Addie. Even her first wedding dress, the one she had worn long before she had become a mother of five, had been quite different from the wedding dresses she was seeing now.

For the break of a second, Felicity wondered which of these dresses she would pick for her next wedding. She did owe Oliver one after all as he had proposed to her during their last anniversary. Quickly, she pushed that thought away though because wasn’t about her.

Today was all about Laurel.

“Afraid?”

Laurel took in a deep breath and, without looking at Felicity, she asked, “Why would I be?”

“Getting married is a big thing,” Felicity told her and smiled amusedly. “I have to know. I got married thrice.”

“Always to the same man.”

Felicity couldn’t help but smile at those words, feeling her chest warm with the bare thought at Oliver.

All her life, watching her mother work at several casinos after Noah had just left her overnight, Felicity had thought that she would never get married. At the young age of seven years, she had given up on love because she had been sure that love just destroyed her. She had never really looked for it.

When she had met Cooper, she had thought that he was her one great love. She hadn’t been able to fight him off of fight off the feelings she had had for him. She had given love a first try because she had thought that she and Cooper would do everything different from her parents. She had thought that they were it for each other.

After Cooper’s apparent death, Felicity had thought she had given up on love once and for all. She had been through the same thing that Donna had gone through with her father, just that it had felt a thousand times worse.

It had taken years, up until the moment that Oliver had been lying in the back of her car with a dangerous bullet wound, until she had finally been able to see that Cooper had never been her great love. What she had felt for him during the months they had been together had been barely a fraction of what she had felt for Oliver during the few weeks that he had come to her for tech advise. That moment, it had all become so very clear.

She had never felt for anyone the way she had felt for Oliver. While it might have taken them a lot of time as well as some detours to realize what they were feeling for each other, they were as happy with each other as they could never be with anyone else. You only found that kind of love with one person, and Felicity had found it with Oliver.

Just like Laurel had found it with Tommy.

“So, what’s going on?” Felicity asked, pushing her elbow into Laurel’s rips. “Did you finally realize that it was a terrible idea to ask my mom and Thea to come with you for wedding dress shopping?”

Laurel frowned at her. “They came with you when you were shopping your wedding dress.”

“My first wedding dress,” Felicity reminded her. “Thea chose my second wedding dress alone, and I ordered my third wedding dress online with the help of William.”

“I know I have been there when you bought your first wedding dress, but I barely remember.”

“Oh, I remember,” Felicity mumbled, but she smiled at Laurel comfortingly. “Don’t worry about it thought.”

If Laurel wasn’t worrying about the fact that Thea and Donna would take over this appointment to show her wedding dress, she wouldn’t remind her of the terrifying memory she had about choosing her first wedding dress. Laurel didn’t have to be told how terrible it could be to have two fashionistas with her as she was choosing her dress. She would barely have any say in what wedding dress she would choose.

“Now,” Felicity asked, cocking her head, “why don’t you go in to find your perfect dress for what media says is the most important day of your life? Are you sad because your mother couldn’t come?”

“No.” Laurel frowned briefly. “I mean I would have loved to have my mother here, but I think she knew what my wedding dress was supposed to look like before I was even born, so maybe the dress will match my taste more if she is not there.”

Felicity pressed her lips together and rolled them into her mouth. It took a lot of her to bite back the comment of how her mother would not be any different. For Donna, Laurel was her daughter. It was the same way for Felicity with William. Although he wasn’t her child biologically or legally, he was her son to her.

“If it’s not your mother’s absence or Thea’s and my mother’s presence,” Felicity asked and cleared her throat slightly, “what makes you worry so much?”

Laurel took in a deep breath, and her the muscles in her shoulders tightened. She seemed visibly uncomfortable to talk about this, and it told Felicity everything that she needed to know. The person that Laurel needed right now was Sara and not her mother. In Sara, Laurel would trust even with her darkest thoughts. It was what sisters did.

Felicity had never really had a sister. With the way she and Laurel had met, Felicity working as part of Oliver’s crusade while his ex-girlfriend had been in the dark about all of it, it had been hard to build the kind of relationships sisters had even after their parents had started dating. That Laurel, just like everyone else on the team, had turned against Felicity when she, unlike everyone else, had believed that Oliver was still alive had just added to it.

Felicity knew, without any doubt, that she and Laurel would never have what Laurel and Sara had had. Their bond had allowed them to work through the fact that Sara had been screwing Laurel’s boyfriend behind her back.

Whenever Felicity remembered that the guy, who did this to these sisters was her husband, she felt a cold shiver running down her back. She knew that, though it had technically been the same person, Oliver was not that guy anymore. Oliver, the Oliver Felicity had gotten to know and had fallen in love with, would never do something like that.

“I am not exactly worried,” Laurel whispered eventually, her voice so low that Felicity could barely hear her though she was standing right beside her. “I am just thinking.”

“About what?”

After years of being married to a brooding, trauma-burdened man and after months of being in therapy, Felicity knew exactly how to worm something out of someone. Asking question after question rather than commenting on anything would eventually prompt people to say what you wanted them to say or what they needed to say.

“About all the bad choices I have made,” Laurel whispered, her voice still so very quiet like she was afraid of letting them out. “There have been so many.”

Without saying a word, Felicity just took Laurel’s hand and held it, giving her the time that she might need to open up or decide to keep those thoughts for herself. She could only hope that Laurel made the choice that was right for herself at the end. She shouldn’t feel urged to share something with Felicity that she wasn’t ready to share or would eventually regret sharing with her. She shouldn’t be burdened with the heaviness of bearing her thoughts all alone either.

Felicity knew how much Laurel regretted a lot of the choices she had made. Back when Oliver had just returned from the island, she had been torn between what she had felt for Tommy and what she had once upon a time had thought she and Oliver had. While it had been Tommy, who had eventually ended things between them, Felicity knew that Laurel had struggled with her choice to try things with Oliver again instead of fighting for Tommy.

Years after Tommy’s death, Laurel hadn’t been ready to open up her heart for love again. She had felt like the way things between her and Tommy had gone down made her undeserving for love. It had taken her so very long to finally realize that making a one decision didn’t mean that you lost all right to love and be loved.

For someone with Laurel’s intelligence, it was almost funny that it had taken her so long. After all, she was friends with a man who had cheated on her several times. His cheating had actually included screwing her sister and fathering a child. Still, Oliver had found his great love and built a family. If he deserved love, why wouldn’t she deserve it too?

“Why didn’t I see how much I loved him and how good he was for me all those years ago?” Laurel asked. “We lost so much time because of-“

“Malcolm Merlyn,” Felicity interrupted her. “You lost time because of Malcolm Merlyn and the Undertaking.”

“And because of my uncertainty of whether or not I should try figuring out if there is still something between me and Ollie,” Laurel insisted. “You can’t say that that didn’t have an effect on the time we have lost.”

“Okay, you lost a week,” Felicity replied, rolling her eyes slightly, “and you might have lost a month if Tommy hadn’t died. That doesn’t change that you would have realized that Oliver was in no way ready to be in a relationship back then and that you and him could never be what you hoped you could be one day. At the end of the day, rather sooner than later, you would have realized what was right for you and you would have asked Tommy to give it another try.”

Laurel nodded slowly. Felicity could almost see the story Felicity had just told her unfolding in front of her eyes. The smallest of a smile played on her lips.

When she turned her head to look at Felicity, she looked slightly more relaxed than she had been before. Maybe she didn’t yet believe what Felicity had told her, but she did have some doubts about her own opinion now.

“Why didn’t I know sooner?” Laurel asked her. “Why didn’t I know that he was the one back then? Why did it take me so long when Tommy knew it from the first moment on?”

Felicity smiled. She kind of knew what it was like to know that you had found the one, while the other was still dangling I-don’t-knows and maybes. Maybe it wasn’t the exact same because Oliver had known that she was the one for him. He just hadn’t felt ready for a relationship after everything he had been through.

“I think that the easiest and truest answer to that is that the heart is not as predictable as the head, and it easily gives in when the head tells it to do so. You thought that you had to give Oliver a try first because you have been given another chance. Your head told you what was rational, and your heart just kept quiet and decided to follow your brain’s suggestion.”

Again, Laurel nodded slowly.

“When you know, you know,” Felicity continued, shrugging her shoulders. “For some, it’s sooner. For some, it’s later. You needed a little more time, but that doesn’t mean that your feelings for Tommy aren’t real. They are just as real as his feeling for you are.”

Laurel took in a deep breath and closed her eyes. Felicity could almost hear her thinking about this. She would probably need some more time to really understand it, but she did believe Felicity that she was right. For now, that was all Felicity knew she could do.

With a soft smile on her lips, Laurel squeezed Felicity’s fingers. She turned towards her.

“Thank you, Felicity.”

“You’re welcome,” Felicity replied and winked at her before she nodded towards the boutique. “Should we go in now?”

Laurel took in a deep breath and nodded her head. “I think I am ready now.”

Felicity bit down on her tongue, biting back the comment that she certainly wasn’t ready for choosing a wedding dress with the help of Thea and Donna. Nobody was ever ready for that.

* * *

@fannaz @promiseyoullbepatientwithme @bytemegeekette @felicity-said-just-in-case @phanseptiic @orangeisorange @mspotatohead14 @whentheheavenfades @emmaamelia95 @smoakingskye @seaolicity @ourwritinginvein @1022bridgetp @felicityqueenforever @leagueofolicity17 @yryssss @myhauntedblacksoul @sherlock44 @sinceriouslybea @arrowsalways @olivyflavescentdeer @olicitys-castle @ofnothingcharming @vaelisamaza @smoakedandcharmed @alexisa1206 @mysaudadespt2 @florence-bubbles @addictiontelly @queens-of-arrows @memcjo @hysterical-for-joshifer @oswinelevenforever @olicitylovemaking @bandanab310 @mymusiclove101 @lynslogic @scarletqueen23 @olicityshipper19 @alex-wesley @arrows-4ever @unabashedlynerdypatrol @louehmysoul @ligiapimenta @chattyyana @charlie-leau @coal000 @samcrowleys @ishippolivia @julianegomesqueen @malafle @miriam1779 @charlinert @melaux @ontheolicityship @myshipperlife @wrightainsley @lexi9515 @ladygreenwood @multi-fandom-crazy-fangirl @morinamel @mje-thomas @kebarry @canadianheartgirl @nannett2307 @almondblossomme @paarti12 @kathrynelizabeth89 @imdfabulous @cutearrowgirl @mrt2501 @mecha1330 @arsipaci14 @mzminx @salasvia @brandis91 @cainc3 @morganmiguess @pr0fessi0nal-fangurl @iamisalima @nessafrancis-blog @jonhdiggle @niki-is-amazing @universed-posts @hopeful-warrior @senoritaswiftie @bellemmie @green-arrows-of-karamel @iheartarrow @olicityovereverything @oliverfel4 @pleasantfanandstudent @fandoms-breathe-life @simone4mcswarek @olicity-in-the-heart @fullychippedcreation @geemarie @everything-but-normal-cat @myarroworld @tjmartinez @pleasantfanandstudent @itsmagnoliagirl @j69confessional2 @scentedcolorpirate @icanica74 @javinancupil @tjmartinez98 @certainmentalityface @tatianadamaceno @ryelew @wildwillowzepplin @missafairy @letsplaymurde-r @lipizette @positivepiper @nuttymilkshakehologram @laksagirl @turnupthemusicandscream @pumpernickle93 @onceuponanolicity @1106angel @jaspertown @fadinglands @morganashimi83 @mochababychristy @omglovechrissie @mariejr88-blog @thetaufactor @onceuponanolicity @speakandseethetruth @bri206 @aglasgo @thats0klaroline @geemarie @pineprincess @nerdgirljen @peterpanslostgirl666 @eternal-olicity14 @allyouhadtodowas-stay-stay-stay @lovelycssefan @tsseract @flowerandsunshine @dcnmarvelgamergeek @blondeeoneexox @monetsmark @soaring-cities @bb-olicity @mashamarty @rulerofsilence @erika-amber @felicity087 @i-claim-only-emily @pattid1 @westallenandolicityshipper @babyolicityandwestallen @nothingmorethanmyotps @kayleenyc @tonto16 @olicityfluv @olicitea1990 @olicity5ever @haahaaa2408 @pattid1 @faegal04 @24karatgem @wrldtravler @readerkas @valery6488 @lemmyeatspeaches @olicity-beliver @greencoffeecups

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[ruwithmeguys]

The chances of an eighth season of Arrow is high, but beyond that… I think the chances have dropped for more than 8 but I could be wrong.

Why I think it’s ending after S8 (and why it may not):

Both Stephen and Emily have stated they want to write and direct but haven’t, despite the chances. They may want to work on new things after next year.

Though he’s agreed to an eighth season, Stephen has made several comments the last 12 months indicating his acceptance of the end and how Oliver really only has one true goal left to accomplish.

The show doesn’t just feel like it’s hitting a new milestone: it feels like it’s preparing us for something (unless it’s just a shocking SL and I’m very wrong)

The interest in superhero tv shows is starting to dwindle because of the sheer number of options available. This however, is open to change. Especially after the last avengers movie hits the cinemas. They may turn to shows like Arrow as an alternative.

Unless the show comes up with a brand new focus to pit Oliver against, beyond his own darkness, then… what? What’s the story?

Indications that John may become the GL means he’s available for other shows after Arrow ends.

Where Oliver goes, Felicity goes. The indications that Oliver will eventually step back from the hood keep ramping up.

They are leading the show towards the future: it’s an obvious passing of the baton.

They are limited in terms of comic origin as there’s only so much story they can pilfer from the comics before DC stop them.

They will need an intense, captivating original story to keep Stephen/Emily and the audience on board past S8 and where they go, the audience go.

We know Arrow won’t live past 10 seasons anyway.

Why I want Arrow to end after 8 seasons:

Too many new characters – unless the show axes at least two of the regulars, we’re never truly going to get the depth we deserve in the scenes focused on our mains… HOWEVER. You can also argue that they don’t need more depth because we basically know them inside out. Another reason right there.

Run its course - Arrow is that show. It isn’t even that good to be honest – the script is either amaze-balls or ridiculous and illogical, the action sequences take up too much space at times and continuity is a huge issue – however we love it as if it were made of gold. Despite our complaints, we watch it because it gave us something that most shows don’t. It gave us a love story for the ages that wasn’t supposed to exist and demanded acceptance of it. It dared so it has our respect.

However, Stephen said something recently. He said, all that remains of Oliver’s story is to leave a legacy. He doesn’t have to die for it to happen, but it has to happen. There two ways for this to be possible: have a baby with Felicity and become a legend. He’ll do both, huzzah! But, barring the immediate concerns of this story, there isn’t a whole lot of character building left to accomplish (suck it Barry/Kara) for Oliver. It’s all outside material. His sister is an issue too, but after this season, focus on him for her story won’t be required. I’m here for Oliver, then Felicity. Just them and in that order.

Thea’s story is done folks, save the peripheral. Whatever happens next for her doesn’t have to be on screen, though I will be stunned if she doesn’t come back for the finale of the series. I have no wish to see more of it, unless it’s Roy inclusive. Why? Because so much of her story kind of… IT BLEW, OKAY? I was bored to tears with her after season 4 and only season 2 and 3 interested me for her character and Roy was entwined in that.

Building a legacy doesn’t mean characters just… disappear - and they don’t have to. So regardless of the end, Felicity will be out there. So will Oliver.

Diggle. This is a big one for me. He’s been changing since Oliver and Felicity left 3.23, since he killed Andy. But we haven’t seen the Dig we know and love since 5.23. That’s 32 episodes. For me, if what was broken isn’t fixed by 7.22, then I truly won’t care what occurs for him in the future, beyond simple curiosity. There’s been too much damage. There’s changing into a different person and then there’s being likeable. One episode is all I’m asking. Believe it or not, I’m actually enjoying his progression, but it’s progression that falls away from the man we dearly miss. Since the chances of him becoming the green lantern has risen… I have to say, I’m not surprised at the idea that John could leave his family behind both literally and figuratively. He’s done it before. He’s doing it now, but it has less impact if his ties are loose and not taut. I need them tightening. 13 episodes are left on S7. He needs to take steps. So either Dig becomes the green lantern… or he dies. If either occurs next year, then S8 will most likely be the end anyway. OTA are the main fixture: they know it, they’ve said it. Once one of them leaves, it’s a ticking clock.

The longer the show lasts, the more time they have to screw up.

I can’t stand another crossover where Oliver is verbally battered for existing.

Too many birds give me hives.

Dinah has become the new boring and siren, the cordelia: I can live without both.

Curits is such a poor example of a human being, it makes me rage, which is unhealthy

Rene is finally interesting to me again, even if I don’t trust him because he’s a fickle sod… which means I never will. So, I can’t like his storyline.

I’m so done with watching Felicity be friendless and treated with disrespect by people that she has to refer to as heroes whether they’ve earned the title or not, I feel like writing fiction where she kills them all and Oliver just stands there in approval.

The longer Arrow lasts, the longer Flash lasts and… NO.

The longer Arrow lasts, the longer Supergirl lasts and… NO.

Since they aren’t doing a thorough Constantine Drakon villain – an enemy with the potential to be amazing since he very literally crucifies the green arrow – I really do miss the big villain. I miss Malcolm: he was twisted but he was effective. You were supposed to hate him. I miss Slade: he’s still my favourite villain. Adrian was the best but they took too long introducing him so he falls short of the tension pedestal for me. Despite being sucktastic, Diaz presents a decent conundrum: he’s supposed to be an arsehole that won’t die so he’s a constant threat. We don’t have to like him. So I desperately need Stan to return. I need that creepy/psychotic enemy that throws everyone for a loop. Without it, I’m not sure about the show’s moral integrity goes to that isn’t about revisiting old ghosts since it’s based on good Vs evil etc. I need to wait and see where they go with this: it could become an organisation or an idea (vigilantes for the people: who watches the watchman type thing) instead of a person and I’ve given up hope on a woman villain who doesn’t irk me. I don’t need 1950’s cheese ball KC: it’s not effective.

Felicity. Now… I love what they’ve done with her character, even in S6 for the most part! However, this whole idea that her wearing a mask would undermine the meaning is pathetic. You had a street kid and a lawyer wearing one after less than a few months of training, but sure: Felicity wearing one would destroy the significance. Now, in one part, this elevates her character: she is the character that all others must work off at least once. It makes her too important to loose: Oliver, Barry, LL, Siren, Ray etc. On the other hand, it limits her capacity and keeps her boxed in which is why S7 has been such a relief to may of us. But I would have loved to have seen this woman suit up: at least she’d be convincing. Any chance of us seeing it happen now are slim to none which is a shame because, to me, her potential is limitless. What we would have given to have everyone else react to her kicking ass and taking names in a mask, with a moniker, and a headset/vice that details the logistics of buildings, sends out Trojans etc. She’d be a nightmare.

I think one more full season (20 to 22 episodes) on top of the 13 remaining, is enough to close Oliver’s legacy if done right which… is a stretch to hope for.

With so many superhero movies in play, if gone on long enough, Arrow will no doubt attempt to copy them as they have done in the past to ill effect.

Another year of rude anons/haters making claims, demanding I do as they tell me, being ridiculous and being constantly wrong in my inbox would be a welcome subtraction in my life.

…And why I want it to live forever:

This show was the show that made me aware of social media. It’s also the show that I needed at a dark time in my life: I was jobless, friendless and things were happening with my family that were less than desirable: it was a grand distraction that borderlined obsession. Or passion. Hm.

Despite certain plotlines, illogical character progression, overused devices, and faulty scripts; it truly is a one in a million show. Very different from all other shows.

The actors can ACT… for the most part.

The CGI effects are good.

It’s angsty x 10

The love story is worth the angst

There’s always more story to tell with good characters!

Once Oliver achieves the status he deserves, I want to see him revel in it.

…A 10 episode season 9 that focuses on olicity alone because I want it so bad?

The chance to bring back Tommy somehow

The wonderful people I talk to online daily JUST because of this show

The genuine friends I’ve made JUST because of this show.

The fanfiction that will continue longer if the show does

The posts and metas I don’t want to live without

The asks in my inbox that I enjoy answering and the anons I enjoy engaging with

TUMBLR – (with the smut please)

If the show has a chance of lasting past season 8, then what I want to see is a season that focuses ONLY on Oliver… and I’d have it elsewhere. I’d have the government involved. Felicity too. Dig. Just them three (it won’t happen).

The chance to see Curtis crash and burn

The chance to see Dinah crash and burn

The chance to see Rene crash and burn

The chance to see siren… go away somewhere

Felicity in a mask

An actual 9pm slot that’s used to it’s fullest extent

A crossover that focuses on what could have been on another earth and you KNOW they’d have Felicity be the vigilante, with Oliver as the guy who loves her despite her violent escapades. OR another life where they’re regular people that fall into an elaborate conspiracy or something.

There currently isn’t another show that can fill the void that Arrow will create when it ends.

A crossover where Oliver/Felicity kiss no one but each other… please.

A crossover- nay, an ENTIRE SEASON, where Oliver is praised for alllll his hard work and sacrifice.

An episode that marks Felicity, truly, as irreplaceable, necessary and needed for every other character to shine.

An episode arc that allows Felicity to be the one that defeats the bad guy.

You know… YOU KNOW that at some point they’ll deliberately have DC and marvel intersect.

Unfortunately, the cons currently outweigh the pro’s. And if so, if S8 is the last, then that’s an AMAZING run time for a show that was supposed to be only 5 seasons. And the story had enough meat in it for me to be happy for it……… though when that occurs, I’ll probably need to book time off to recover because oh my god I can’t even imagine.

The idea, if true, is a sad one. But again, if true, it won’t be till 2020. We have some time.

[hope-for-olicity]

Pumpkin Spice and Football 6/?

I’m back! So sorry for the delay in updating. I got tangled up in Fictober then I needed a little bit of a break. Hope you enjoy this chapter. Also available on AO3. Thanks to @mel-loves-all for the lovely artwork!

6. The Secret is Out 

Oliver had a lovely dinner out with his family. He smiled as he watched Thea dig into her chocolate cake, his mother sipped her tea.  He really did miss them.

He really should have known the other shoe was going to drop.

“There is something I need to tell you. I want you to know I had your best interests at heart when I made this decision.” Moira gripped her napkin.

Oliver nodded for her to continue but couldn’t help feeling nervous.

“Late last week, I learned that a local reporter, Susan Williams was about to break a story saying Queen Consolidated was nearing bankruptcy.” Moira looked directly at Oliver. “This is not true. Your money has saved the company. So I agreed to do a sit-down interview with the reporter, to tell the truth, the whole truth. I think it was the right thing to do. I told them how we almost went bankrupt but were saved by Oliver’s generosity.”

Oliver reached over, stroked his mother’s hand. “It’s okay, Mom. It had to come out sometime. It’s not like we did anything illegal. I just wish you told me so I could be there for you.”

“Thank you so much for understanding, Oliver. Any other week I would have told you but I wanted you to keep your head in the game. I know how hard you have been working. I’m so proud of you.”

“Thanks, Mom,” Oliver squeezed her hand.

“Aww, you guys are so sweet. You are making me all teary. I think I need more cake.” Thea dipped her fork into the cake once more.

Oliver chuckled, turned back to his mother. “So, when is the interview?”

“Oh, I already did it. It airs tonight,” she looked down at her phone. “In about a half hour.”

Oliver suddenly felt panicked. This was going to blow up. Yes, they had done nothing wrong but it was a secret. Oliver stood up grabbing his phone. “I need to call Felicity.”

*****

Felicity had come home put on some comfy clothes before ordering pizza in. She’d worked hard that day she deserved a treat.

She turned on the TV to see the Jets win was the top sports story of the day. They showed replays of Oliver’s amazing plays over and over. She was so proud of him. Felicity knew how hard Oliver was working to be successful. It was nice to see it work out.

Her phone rang, she picked it up expected to see the pizza company’s name but instead saw Oliver’s. Strange. “Hello.”

“Hey, Felicity, we need to talk.” Oliver tried to keep the panic out of his voice. He knew this breaking news was going to impact him and his team.

Something was wrong. Felicity could feel it in her gut. “Oliver, what’s wrong? How can I help?”

Oliver began pacing outside the restaurant. “News is about to break. I’m not sure what’s going to happen. It’s a bit of a long story. I know it’s late but can you meet?”

“Why don’t you just come over? Or I can come to you. Where are you?” Felicity was suddenly concerned about him driving. She hadn’t known Oliver very long but she could tell this was a big deal.

“I’m at the restaurant. I’ll just say goodbye to my family, then get a cab.” He looked back at the restaurant door. “Thanks, Felicity. I know this is above and beyond your job.”

Felicity smiled. “Hey, it’s not just my job, we are friends. I’m here for you. Don’t worry we will figure this out.”

*****

Felicity had her tablet in hand when she opened the door to Oliver a short while later. He walked in, began pacing again. Felicity could see he was freaking out so she did the only thing she could think of. She hugged him. Maybe not professional but as she said before, they were more than that.

Oliver let out a sigh, pulled Felicity closer. He suddenly felt calmer. They stood hugging for a few minutes before he pulled back. “Thanks for that. Sorry for the freaking out.”

“Hey, freaking out is part of life. Why don’t we sit down so you can tell me all about it.” Felicity gestured toward her couch. “I have pizza if you want to stress eat.”

Oliver smiled, followed Felicity to the couch. “I’m sorry, I didn’t tell you this before. I planned to...it just never really came up.”

“That’s okay. Just tell me now.” Felicity rubbed his arm reassuringly.

Oliver took a breath. “I don’t know if you heard but my father died unexpectedly last year.”

Felicity gasped. “Oh, Oliver, I’m so sorry.”

Oliver squeezed Felicity hand. “Thank you. My father and I had our issues but it was still a shock. After his death, we discovered that my family’s company, Queen Consolidated, was in major financial trouble. The accountants said it was a done deal. The company had to declare bankruptcy without a major influx of cash to pay off the debt. That’s when I stepped in. I sold my homes, cars, anything I had plus signed a contract agreeing to make payments to keep the company afloat. Felicity, it was my family’s company, my father’s legacy I had to help out.”

Felicity scooched up on the couch, she gave Oliver a kiss on the cheek without thinking. “Oliver Queen, you are one hell of a man. You just continue to impress. So, what changed tonight?”

Oliver couldn’t lie. He loved that Felicity thought so highly of him. He smiled. “Tonight, my mom told me she gave a sit-down interview with a reporter, told the world how I bailed out the company. This will change how everyone looks at Queen Consolidated and how they look at me.”

Felicity picked up her tablet. “Okay, when does the interview air?”

“Tonight, maybe right now.” Oliver picked up the television remote. “May I?”

“Yes, see if you can find it.” They both watched, as Oliver stopped on news channels waiting to hear his name. The bigger channels mentioned his name but only relation to today’s game. It became clear they weren’t going to find it. “Hold on, let me find it online.” Felicity went to a Starling City news site found it quickly. “Okay, let’s watch then we will talk. But before we do. I want you to know I’m not worried. Not at all.” She squeezed Oliver’s hand while they watched his mother.

After the interview finished. Felicity put her tablet down on the coffee table, turned to Oliver. “Okay, I want you to tell me what exactly you are worried about.”

Oliver sat up straighter. “Well, it’s embarrassing people now know that the company was in financial trouble. They know that I kept it a secret, that I helped. My family’s dirty laundry has been aired in public!”

“Okay,” Felicity nodded. “I want to tell you how I see it. After hearing your side of the story than watching the interview. This is a PR miracle for you. It’s a good news story. YOU saved your family’s company. YOU were the good son, the knight in shining armour. You saved the day and all those people’s jobs. You have NOTHING to be ashamed of. This will show the world that you are a kind-hearted, caring, wonderful man.”

“Felicity,” Oliver began to blush.

“It’s true! I know you were worried about how this would negatively impact the team but I don’t see that happening. Oliver, you are a hero! On and off the field! If I didn’t already cheer for the Jets, I would now because I want to cheer for someone like you. Oliver, you amaze me!”

Oliver was dumbfounded. He truly wasn’t expected this reaction from anyone, let alone Felicity. He just did what you could to help your family. “Felicity, people know what my father did. I’m not a hero. I just did what needed to be done.”

“Okay, maybe you don’t believe me now but I’ll bring you around.” Felicity smiled brightly at him as though she had a secret. “No matter my opinion you came here for a social media plan. I recommend you not comment, reblog, retweet, share anything until after your first interview. I’m sure the news agency will be fighting to see who gets the first interview. Once you have your story out there, the way you want it told you can go from there. I can help you compose your first tweet.”

“I want you.” Oliver realized what he said, blushed. “I mean, I want you to do the interview. I would be most comfortable with that. Maybe we could do that Facebook Live thing you did with the Coach?”

“Oliver,” Felicity shook her head. “This could be a big moment for you. You could get great publicity if you do the interview with the right reporter. I think you should talk to your agent.”

“I can talk to John, my agent if you like but I’ll just tell him the same thing. I would be most comfortable if you did the interview.” Oliver shrugged his shoulders, “since he’s a great agent, he will agree.”

Felicity chuckled. “I see. Well, let me be clear, I’m not a journalist, I’m a social media coordinator. I can let you make your statement, we can post it on all the social media websites. I’m sure the news agencies will pick it up. I don’t think we should do a Facebook Live though because we don’t want to answer any questions right now, just make the statement. We can do it tomorrow. I have brunch plans with the girls but we can do it after that if your agent doesn’t convince you to talk to a real journalist. You can get some sleep, talk to John, think it over before you decide.”

Oliver got up from the couch. “I should let you get some rest. Sorry, for invading on your personal time but I feel much better now that I talked to you. I think we see things in our head a certain way and sometimes others don’t see it that way.”

“Are you saying you understand my hero comment?” Felicity smiled.

“No, No,” Oliver shook his head. “I’ll never get there but maybe it’s not the worst story that could have come out.”

“Oliver, I’m going to be honest. You had me worried, I thought I was getting to know you and you were a nice guy. I couldn’t imagine what you could have done. Then when you told me, I liked you a little more.”

“You like me?” Oliver gave Felicity the most charming smile before leaning down to give her a quick peck on the lips. “I like you too, Felicity. In case you were wondering.” Oliver smiled back at her as he closed the door.

Felicity smiled to herself as she locked her door for the night. Oliver Queen kissed her! Squee!!

*****

Felicity had Mondays off as she worked Sundays, turns out its way easier to get a table at the local diner on Monday mornings. She invited both Caitlin, Iris and baby Nora to brunch. She really wanted the two women to meet, she thought they’d get along, plus they had already heard about one another countless times.

Iris rushed into the diner to find Felicity sitting alone in practically empty diner sipping coffee. “So sorry, I’m late. Nora sends her regards, seems she needed some Daddy time.”

Felicity laughed. “Well, it will give you some girl time. Caitlin should be here in a moment. I’m so excited for you two to meet.” They both heard the door open, turned. “There she is! Caitlin, I’d like you to meet Iris West Allen she is the interior designer I told you about. Iris this is Caitlin Snow the official photographer for the New York Jets. And you both happen to be my awesome new friends in New York so let’s have some pancakes ladies!”

The ladies place their orders, began sipping their coffee when Caitlin turned to Felicity, “so are you going to tell us? What’s going on with you and Oliver? Did he really bail out his family’s company? We need details!”

Caitlin looked to Iris for support, Iris nodded. “Spill Felicity.”

“There is nothing officially going on with Oliver and me. We are just getting to know each other. As for the bailing his family’s company out, it’s true. I’ll be helping him with his official statement right after lunch.” Felicity smiled thinking she’d appeased her friends.

“Nothing official?” Iris’ eyebrow rose.

“Yeah, Felicity what does that mean? Are you having a secret romance?” Caitlin poked some more.

“I like him and we are getting to know each other. And that’s all I have to say.” Felicity gave her girls a look letting them know that was the end of the discussion.

“Okay, but you have to give us an update next Monday.” Iris chided.

Felicity scrunched her nose. “Next Monday?”

Caitlin nodded enthusiastically. “Agreed, when we do brunch again. I need to live vicariously!”

Felicity smiled at her friends. “Okay, I promise to give you an update next Monday. Look our pancakes are here.”

The ladies settled in to enjoy their carbs.

*****

Felicity texted Oliver as she was leaving the diner.

Felicity: Hey, hope all is good. Did you talk to your agent?

Oliver: Yes.

Oliver: Are you home?

Felicity: On my way

Oliver: Can you swing by when you get here?

Felicity: Sure. See you in a few minutes

Felicity stopped to pick up a pumpkin spice latte and a green tea before heading to Oliver’s. She stopped in front of Oliver’s door with the two cups, she really should have gotten a tray! She turned to place the cups on the ground so she could knock when the door opened.

“Uh, Felicity, what are you doing?”

“I brought you tea.” She held up a Starbucks cup. “And I got something for me, but I couldn’t knock.” Suddenly she felt embarrassed and hot. She blew hair out of her face. “Are you going to invite me in?”

“Yes, of course.” Oliver stepped aside. Felicity walked in, placed the cups on the kitchen island. She noticed that Oliver’s laptop was open to train website. “Going somewhere? Please don’t tell me you are running away. I’m here to help remember.”

“Haha.” Oliver picked up his cup, took a sip. “I was looking at options for Thanksgiving. We have a byweek so I’m going to go to my parent's cabin. Do you have plans?”

“Look at you thinking ahead.” Felicity chuckled. “The Smoaks don’t really do Thanksgiving. My mom has to work and neither of us is great cooks. I usually try to head home for Hanukkah if I can.”

“So no Thanksgiving?” Oliver was alarmed.

“Hey, it’s okay. Really, don't’ feel bad for me. Truly, Oliver let’s talk about what your agent said.” Felicity tried to move to change the topic. He was looking at her with such pity.

“Do you want to come with me? For Thanksgiving I mean.” Oliver suddenly realized it was probably way too soon for that but he really wanted her to spend Thanksgiving with him.

“Oliver, that’s like two months away! We don’t know...we don’t know what will be happening with us then.” Felicity turned and walk toward Oliver’s wall of windows pretending to look out at the view.

Oliver came up behind her, put his hand on her shoulder to turn her to face him. “I think I’ll like you even more than I do right now.” Oliver placed a kiss on her forehead. “Will you at least think about it?”

Felicity looked up at him and smiled. “Okay, I’ll think about it.”

“Okay,” Oliver rubbed his hands together. “I talked to John, he thinks talking to you in best because I’ll be most comfortable. He thinks the news organizations will pick it up once we post it online.”

“Okay then, where would you like to do this. Here?” Felicity looked around Oliver’s condo. “Or shall we go out?”

“Here is good.” Oliver smiled. “I just want to say in advance. Thank you for everything, Felicity.”

So hope you enjoyed! Thanks for reading :)

@mindramblingsfics @memcjo @mel-loves-all @wherethereissmoak @green-arrows-of-karamel @spaztronautwriter @tdgal1 @vaelisamaza @lucyyh @tangled23works @swordandarrow @marcsmom6 @smoaking-greenarrow @pattid1 @1106angel @it-was-a-red-heeler @obibaldwin @folly1977 @nathiawarrior @alemap74 @samwinter09 @miriam1779 @coal000 @alejandra1400 @you-are-not-done-fighting @matalala @alexisa1206 @blondeeoneexox @felicityfan20 @emw751103 @mochababychristy @omglovechrissie @stephswims @fortheluvofolicity @ajillgreen @laurabelle2930

[kiissme]

          “Ah, the man of the hour,” her voice called out, the man that was to be her bodyguard for the remainder of the filming. Blue eyes looking from the hired arm to that of her director and agent. “This really isn’t necessary, I doubt much will come of this, just idle threats from nameless twits from the internet.” She was downplaying it all, of course. Inside, there was a bit of her that was frightened by the on-goings online. Yes, threats from anonymous people flooded the comments of her social media profiles to the point where she had to disable comments, something she thought she never had to do. Things were sent to the studio, and even to the location they were filming her latest project at. The price, she was told, on signing on to a contract deal on a mainstream franchise.

          The most frightening thing about it, wasn’t it was threats of hate or violence but that of love. Or, rather, the twisted version of it. To the point that her trailer was broken into though nothing had been stolen, yet it did bring the air of being unsafe that she never felt before. It was disappointing as she was known to adore her fans, always taking the time for interaction even if she was busy. Where would she be without it? Even then she knew it wasn’t all of them, but a small group of individuals that were taking it between that thin line of love and hate and her agent was afraid for her. And so, she agreed to a body guard to accompany her at all times.

          Yet it still made her feel self conscious for the need of it. Almost to the point of embarrassment. Felicity Harrington had never been in the protection of a bodyguard, never believed she was as important to need one. She was starring in an action movie, the first of many, she was going to be as big of a star than ever before. She should be happy, excited for this. And yet... But she wanted to be brave, to try and still enjoy this for what it was. “James, is it?” she asked of the man with the piercing blue eyes, offering a warm smile, “I’m sorry you’ve had to take a boring a job as this. Following an actress around all day and night, must be quite tame than your other jobs. But, my agent and director, they’ll make sure to get everything you need so it isn’t an absolute bore. I’m glad you’re here, though, I’m sure we’ll get along just fine.” A slight laugh given, “Well, I hope it is a little of a bore, because I’m certain nothing will happen. I’m sure of it. Did you bring anything? I don’t know how this works, you’re my first.”

you’re my first, @lookingoodjohn​ for bucky with felicity !

[faedawayyy]

credit to nadine @yeaahishowedupatyourparty​ for the fan idea because!!! also i’ve tried to use fcs people wont want for like full on charas :) so mainly tiktokers LOL

teddy: troye sivan

STAN LIST: my characters

ultimate fanboy and has one of the most popular social media accounts amongst fans 

gets recognised and attention from celebrities regularly 

picks and chooses who he likes fan wise. won’t like you if you shit talk his faves but won’t like you if you get a little TOO excited about them either

MOST FAVE OG: dallas lmao

MOST FAVE NEXT GEN: yasmine

FAVE SHIPS: disney and brody for the chuck and blair vibes and evan and hensley for the beck and jade vibes

savannah: charli damelio 

STAN LIST: nadine’s characters

a stan on the younger side. she’s very naive to what celebrities are like. genuinely so sweet and kind to everybody but now she’s 18, she is looking to be taken a bit more seriously with her friends. 

loves concerts and big fan events 

often gets noticed because like teddy, she has a big following on social media

got bullied a lot irl so her online friends and stan friends are everything to her 

OG FAVOURITE: soraya and imogen 

NEXT GEN FAVE: lottie and addy 

FAVE SHIPS: soraya and dallas and tanner and alani 

pearl: dixie damelio 

STAN LIST: meg’s characters (writer of flynn/athena/charlie etc.) 

older sister of savannah and a fan girl in her own right. she loves all elements of pop culture but is really into acting mainly. 

definitely more outspoken and defensive than savannah. will throw hands with anyone who starts on her faves or her sister lmao 

she lowkey lives for the drama and will often make controversial comments about other peoples faves just to start something 

OG FAVOURITE: athena and charlie 

NEXT GEN FAVE: violet and avery 

FAVE SHIPS: charlie and park and wes and janey

katya: avani 

STAN LIST: tiah’s characters

the bestie of savannah and pearl. 

she’s messy LOL not because she starts drama but she’s the one fan who asks bold questions at fancon and gets the best pics because she isn’t shy 

OBSESSED with fashion but not designers. she loves seeing event and red carpet looks and will be quick to tell you if what someone’s wearing ain’t it lmao 

OG FAVOURITE: duyi & dwight 

NEXT GEN FAVE: youi & fumi 

FAVE SHIPS: blake and christelle and kobi and oliver

rueben: macdoesit

STAN LIST: synn’s characters

somehow the most immature AND the mom friend of the group

a simp for hot men 

would choose sitting at home and watching videos of performances of his faves over going out and actually meeting them. that shit takes energy.

when he DOES go out he makes sure it’s worth it and flirts up a storm with his favourites 

OG FAVOURITES: felix, harrison and little mix

NEXT GEN FAVOURITES: river and luna

FAVE SHIPS: poppy and clyde and felix and his bf

usnavi: larray 

STAN LIST: meg’s characters (danny’s/madison’s/ lorelai’s writer) 

usnavi has main. character. energy. he is EVERYWHERE and good friends with teddy. is defo gay (as is larray btw)

he says it as it is honestly LOL and really doesn’t mind creating tension where necessary 

ON THE FLIP SIDE, he has boundaries and never goes too far when trying to meet his faves. if they need space, he’ll give them space. 

king of shipping 

OG FAVES: lorelai and danny 

NEXT GEN FAVES: mia and lily 

FAVE SHIPS: zara and danny and madison and julian 

freya: addison rae

STAN LIST: katie’s characters

newer on the scene so her accounts are smaller BUT is quickly building her reputation because at this point she’s a p well known groupie 

she always denies flirting/sliding into the dms of celebs but does and if she hooks up w them, she doesn’t say anything 

not really argumentative or anything but still supports the shit out of her favourites and keeps it positive for them 

doesn’t really call people out but might post the odd bitchy message to a fan blog. 

OG FAVES: leo and felicity 

NEXT GEN FAVES: elijah and perrie 

FAVE SHIPS: oliver and matt and gigi and park 

stephanie: madi monroe 

STAN LIST: zoe’s characters

ditzy but also a massive party girl. she kind of has a paris hilton persona. 

can get VERY attached and clingy when it comes to her favourites. there’s no way she’ll let herself be overlooked

has a goal to become famous herself but literally does nothing other than sleep, eat and internet LOL 

can be a bit bitchy

lesbian 

OG FAVOURITES: elodie and mackenzie

NEXT GEN FAVOURITES: harlow and belle

[thornewoodhospitalblog]

After a lengthy conversation, the mods (the Bee Sisters) felt the group would benefit from a master list of questions and concerns brought to them over the course of the last 3 days. Each solution has been put into one of the three categories (Set-Up, Rules and Frustrations). A solution to each of these concerns have been written in bold. If you cannot agree to these solutions, we suggest messaging us immediately. If we are not messaged, that will be taken as your acceptance of these solutions.

"I’m confused about the timeline. What day is it when my starter goes up? How long do my threads last? What information do I know in one thread and not the other?” 

Most roleplays assume the time is semi-fluid. We’ve found some writers find this passage of time confusing. Therefore, we will be posting the date every morning (12AM GMT) along with Lakewood’s weather. This means, even if the thread takes a month to finish, if the starter was posted July 1st, it will still be July 1st in that thread. If you start two threads during the same day, whichever one that was created first will be first in the timeline. For example, if Lexus posts a starter tomorrow, July 1st, and Cameron responds to it July 2nd, the thread will still occur on July 1st. If Lexus replies to a starter created after the posting her starter on July 1st, that means the events in her starter transpired first. 

In the case of pregnancies and other time-dependent plot developments, we can stretch the timeline by saying a character is pregnant for about a month “roleplay time.” One trimester for each week, roughly. This can be discussed when you clear that plot line with us, as discussed in the rules. 

“How do characters (not writers) learn of the gossip posted about in the gossip blog?”

Only staff members have access to their cell phones, so it might seem difficult to conceptualize how patients get wind of Thornewood-related gossip. Cordelia, a fellow patient, also must abide by these rules. Therefore, the rumor mill she pioneers is not circulated via text messages, tweets, etc., but through word of mouth. It is not explicitly stated how characters overhear this gossip because the gossip blog is an optional resource. Some writers may choose to have certain characters of theirs interact with it, some not. As a result, though there are many ways for a character to overhear this gossip (whispering of NPCs in the halls, a canon character tells your character, etc.), we cannot explicitly say “Ann Forrester gathers all of Thornewood into one room to divulge the gossip every week,” because then the information becomes canon. There would be no option for the information (and we use this term loosely when it comes to gossip) to be taken or left. It would have to be included. 

"I’m struggling with writing/replying to open starters. Can’t this policy be optional?”

Our main goal is to help alleviate any problems you may be experiencing while at Thornewood, but this policy cannot be optional because it would do more harm than good for it to be so. Here’s why: when new writers join the roleplay and see starters from two weeks ago, they do not feel like they are contributing to the current story. Therefore, it is paramount that all writers must reply to 2 open starters within the first 2 - 3 days of their acceptance, and post one of their own. This ensures that there is a constant influx of open starters for new writers to reply to. Please understand that preexisting writers (writers who have been with us since the beginning, writers who have been with us 2 weeks ago, etc.) can and should also post open starters before acceptance dates in order to help out the new writers. If you are struggling to write open starters, we have guides to help with this process linked on our writing tips page and are more than willing to collaborate with you on starter ideas. Remember, an effective open starter contains dialogue and a situation another writer can respond to (ie: “did you hear about Ann Forrester?” [good example for a gif chat], or bumping in to another character and perhaps their coffee spills either on you or them, pulling a character down a vacant hallway to ensure they don’t get caught by the guard coming around the corner, commenting on the good/shitty food at Thornewood while in the dining room, etc.) 

"I’m nervous about the emphasis placed on grammar in this roleplay. Will you scream at me if I make a typo?”

Absolutely not. Our advertisements for this roleplay say that we are a “literate roleplay,” which means our writers write using proper grammar (no text speak like LOL or no capital letters, appropriate punctuation like apostrophes or commas, using the correct “too” vs “to”, etc.). We will never give a warning for a typo unless there are so many typos that it detracts from the understanding of the post. We have given a warning for grammar once, and this was after repeated attempts to stress the importance of “quality” responses. Fragment sentences, posts written in first person (this roleplay writes in third person) and posts written in present tense will result in a warning. In order to be marketable to other potential writers, we need to maintain a base level of literacy. This, by no means, translates to “every post most be perfect.”

“I don’t like the writing tips you post on the main, especially the meta-disrespect one!” 

Let me say this first, and then I’ll address perhaps not liking the tips: 

In short, tips should be discussed if they are not understood. Tips are optional things to consider, aside from god-modding and meta-disrespect. These tips are not sub-tweets, as we have given warnings about things before, like grammar, and do not have a “too vs to” guide. The meta-disrespect guide was worded in an aggressively funny way by its writer (aka not Thornewood) and explained by the staff (aka Thornewood) but it is not about a particular writer in Thornewood. Meta-disrespect is ignoring the personality of a character. Saying Cameron is a “fuck up” when he clearly is not due to the fact that he is a byproduct of growing up in an impoverished area like Camden, NJ, is meta-disrespect. Unless you truly believe that people who are raised in impoverished households are somehow fuck ups, which is actually a gross ideology and will not be tolerated in the roleplay as that could lead to OOC drama very, very quickly. In short, meta-disrespect is directly ignoring the personality of a character. Of course characters can have different interpretations of other characters. If your character is super macho and they meet Cameron (who is super outspoken and known to have an intimidating reputation as Thornewood’s oldest resident, as written in his bio) and they’re not intimidated by him; that’s fine. You should, however, comment “[Your character] noticed Cameron’s desire to intimidate [them] and while his tactics may have worked on a less headstrong person, [Character] refused to cower to him.” Therefore, you’re acknowledging a writer’s intention for their character, but you’re also staying true to your character and their natural reactions to all sorts of different people. 

So, about not liking the tips:

Take them with a grain of salt. They are optional things to think about. Writing as a hobby, we assume, means you want to improve just like we do. Therefore, we post guides we have found helpful in our 7+ years of roleplay group experience. If you ever have any other problems with the tips posted on the main blog and perhaps feel you’re struggling with what the tip suggests to do, and would like to follow the tip, message the main. We love to workshop writing!

"I’ve noticed that someone is online, they know they’ve owed me a reply for days, but they’ve replied to someone who gave them a response yesterday. I think they’re showing favoritism, what do I do?”

Favoritism absolutely sucks in a roleplay. This is not a problem that “has to exist” or “will always exist” and here’s why: we will be issuing warnings if we see repeated acts of favoritism. Of course, everyone misses a reply here and there, but if you’re frequently dropping your threads with a writer, that isn’t cool. If you’re frequently putting a writer on the back burner because you’re so invested in your other plots, that isn’t cool. We get that everyone has their “favorite” plot (be it a romance plot, a friendship plot, an enemy plot), but it’s not acceptable to only engage with that particular plot and not give replies to people you’ve owed replies to. Sometimes inspiration for a reply doesn’t strike so you have to move to another reply. That’s okay, but tell the writer you owe a reply to “hey, I’m having writer’s block for our thread! Give me [an hour, a day] and you’ll have a reply!” Sometimes certain threads just aren’t working, either, that’s okay, too! Just tell your writing partner, “hey, I’m feeling really stuck with this thread. Do you mind if we plot a little bit more instead? I just feel like our characters need more [in this example] fluff before our big angsty plot unfolds. Maybe our characters could sneak out in the middle of the night, or steal cookies from the kitchen, or maybe your character could find mine crying about her brother’s declining health in the hallway and your character can comfort mine?” Talk to your writing partner OOC, and if after contacting them you’re still not getting results — contact the mods! 

"My thread got dropped and my feelings are really hurt! What do I do?” 

It feels bad to be invested in a thread and then have a writer drop it. To avoid this kind of yuckiness in the future, we are implementing a rule that you must contact your writing partner if you’re dropping a thread. If you wanted to be really nice, you could even say something like “Hey, Casey! I love Lexus and Felicity, but I just really don’t think they’re connecting in this thread. Do you mind if we scrap it and start a new one? Maybe this one can take place in the garden? What if they got caught in the rain and had a huge mud fight?” Talk to your writing partner and if the problem persists — talk to the mods!

“Time-Sensitive special events seem restrictive. I have a great plot that I want to write about during this special Thornewood Event, but I don’t think I can do it justice in X days.”

We understand wanting to plot something super awesome for a Thornewood Event. The novelty of these events inspire greatness and plenty of possibilities for compelling plots. Thornewood-wide events place every character in the same room, which can be near impossible, and staff meetings do something very similar in the way that they allow the staff to directly interact with not only each other, but the elusive Charles Forrester and his wife, Ann. However, the novelty of these events would wear off if they were able to be played out indefinitely. For instance, if a staff meeting goes on until every writer ends their thread with their fellow staff member’s writer, the July staff member event could go on for months. Then what would we do during August when the next staff meeting occurs? That being said, we do understand that sometimes writers can get a little excited and plot a little too much for five days -- your mods have done that too, especially with Summerfest, our first ever Thornewood-wide event. Our warning to “plot accordingly” might have been difficult to hear over the loud shrieks of excitement. That’s okay!! Upon plotting with your fellow writer, if you both feel you cannot accomplish your desired plot within the allotted time, message the main to ask for an extension before the first day of the event.

Closing statement of an incredibly long post: 

While most mods do not offer explanations for their decisions, and this will not become an on-going practice in Thornewood, the mods felt the last two/three days have been wild enough to justify a little bit of an “unorthodox” response. We hope these solutions will provide more clear directions for everyone going forward so we can get back to our ships, guilty-pleasures and angst. To avoid such craziness in the future, we all need to move forward with the understanding that you must talk to the mods about any issues you’re having, as we will never be offended and will only seek to provide solutions for your problems. That said, do not approach us if your mind is already made up and we cannot change your leaving despite offering solutions to your problems. Things happen, we understand people leave. Sometimes you don’t have the time anymore, don’t have the muse anymore, whatever. All good. We’ve left roleplays before, too! We do not understand not communicating about issues until it is too late for a reconciliation. 

Best, 

The Bee Sisters

[cloudydamage3]

Arrow Season 7 Episode 10 Review: My Name is Emiko Queen

The Queen siblings may not look or sound the same, but one thing is sure -- they all have some serious daddy issues. 

Thea probably thinks (and still believes) that she should get a trophy for the award of Queen child with the most complex parental issues, but her long-lost step-sister may have snatched the prize from her. 

Seems only fitting since she snatched the green hood from her half-brother. 

The New Green Arrow was a small plotline in the first half of Arrow Season 7, but on Arrow Season 7 Episode 10, it became a primary focus as we not only confirmed the identity behind the mask, but we got a full-blown introduction into her motives.

The way the New Green Arrow story was told previously suggested that the introduction of Emiko Queen would be done slowly, with new information getting dropped every couple of episodes. 

Related: Arrow Season 7 Episode 8 Review: Unmasked 

That is no longer the case. The New Green Arrow went from unknown mystery figure to Emiko Queen, someone we now know very well. 

Still, it might have been too soon for Arrow to dedicate a lot of time to a character we barely know.

Is her story intriguing, and do I want to know more? Absolutely, there's no denying that. But if it weren't for Rene's help guiding her, she would've been too overbearing. 

Well, shame on us for being so sexist. Our mystery man is actually a woman.

Felicity

It has been an issue on Arrow before. Introducing new characters has never been their strong suit. The show relies too heavily on them before Arrow Fanatics get the chance to form a connection. 

Dinah's introduction on Arrow Season 5 is a standout example.

Related: Get HBO via Prime Video Channels for Addictive Dramas, Hilarious Comedies & Hit Movies! 

The show threw her into the limelight very quickly, taking away the spotlight from other characters we'd grown to love and to this day Arrow Fanatics still haven't managed connect with her. 

There's still hope for Emiko and a good chance that won't happen to her. Unlike Dinah, she has a backstory and an obvious connection to the Queen family that'll give Arrow much more to work with moving forward. 

Emiko's introduction may not have been perfect, but she has already formed relationships that can take her story in many different directions. 

Her partnership with Rene gives Arrow the vigilante angle it's missing now that Oliver's working with the police. And let's face it, their chemistry is undeniable. 

The show may not decide to go that route and keep their relationship strictly platonic, which is fine, but come on, Rene deserves some love. The dude's been riding solo for a long time. #GiveReneAChance. 

People say that revenge corrupts the soul; that if you go down that path you'll never come back. But sometimes embracing the darkness is the only way to get justice. My name is Emiko Queen. I will get justice for my mother and no one will stand in my way.

Their mission to avenge Emiko's mother and get justice brings back memories of old Arrow when Oliver's mission was practically the same. The only issue is that it seems as though everyone she was hunting until now was a waste of time. 

Each person Oliver went after had a purpose, a connection to his father. The fact that Emiko "failed" her mission just as we met doesn't make her look too heroic.

Related: Arrow Season 7 Episode 7 Review: The Slabside Redemption 

It felt like she was making strides as a badass female Green Arrow, but then that badassery crumbled down when it got she was wrong about who killed her mother. 

It's essential for the show not to make her look like she's in over her head, and she was in over her head/ She should be at the same level, or at least close to the level was during Arrow Season 1. 

Speaking of Oliver, can we discuss the day he had? The man seriously can't get one day of peace. He's was released from Slabside, reunited with his wife and friends and then boom, found out his father and mother were lying to him for most of his life. 

In a way, I was heartbroken for Oliver because he already had to deal with learning so much information about his parents in in the past that didn't exactly make them come off as the quality people he thought they were. 

Hey, you okay? You know, this has to be a shock. Maybe not as big of a shock as becoming The Flash and then fighting alongside Batwoman, but still a shock.

Felicity

This news seemed like the straw that broke the camel's back. Any positive image of his parents he had remaining in his memory was completely wiped away. 

Related: Enjoy UNLIMITED access to thousands of Movies and TV shows with Amazon Prime video. WATCH ANYWHERE. CANCEL ANYTIME! 

I have a feeling Robert may not have been as big of a monster as he looked like, though. Maybe he had a valid reason when it came to abandoning Emiko. Was he trying to protect her and her mother? The person who killed Emiko's mom is probably connected to Robert in some way. 

Oliver's reaction to the sudden news also showed how much he has grown. The old Oliver would've lashed out and done something pretty violent, but this Oliver expressed his sadness to his wife and talked about his feelings. 

Some heroes don't have to be brooding all the time; an emotional conversation is just as heroic as punching bad guys in the face. 

It was also a pivotal moment for Oliver and Felicity's relationship. It seemed as though that premature (and quickly brushed aside) break up on Arrow Season 7 Episode 8 was foreshadowing a rough road ahead for the couple, but it turns out the two are in a very good place right now. 

They managed to work together without bickering, and during a tough time Felicity comforted Oliver and encouraged him to be the man she knew he was. 

Is it possible that Olicity can stay in this state forever? No probably not, but it's during the simple, pure moments between the two when they talk that exemplify how much they truly do love each other. 

Oliver: I need you to analyze this DNA, it belongs to the New Green Arrow. Felicity: Some husbands bring their wives home flowers, and mine brings me home blood from a crime scene. And they say romance is dead.

The Queens may have been the main focus of "My Name is Emiko Queen," but Rene also played a vital role both as Emiko's new partner in the present and as mayor of the Glades in the future. 

It took me a second to adjust to this new Rene. And while he may not be the type of hero Zoe wants him to be, he may be the person who ends up saving Star City in the future. 

Also were any other Arrow Fanatics curious about the identity of the man working alongside Rene? He admitted to being involved in the death of Felicity, but I wonder if he's someone that has played, or will eventually play a role in the present timeline as well. 

Another tidbit that was slyly dropped by Dinah in the future was that Curtis may not be alive, or at least on Team Arrow's side. When trying to remind Rene that a group of them took a code to fight no matter what, she name-dropped Oliver, Diggle, Felicity, and Roy but not Curtis. 

It was such a small tease that many might not have clued into and it might not even end up being an issue, but it may also be a huge clue moving forward. 

While the flashforwards have been a fun puzzle that  Arrow Fanatics are desperately trying to solve, Diggle, Lyla and A.R.G.U.S. continue to be a boring puzzle that you can't help but nod off while doing it. 

Bringing Diaz into the fold didn't add intrigue or excitement to the story they've been telling with Diggle and Lyla. The fact that they are going to copy the plot of "Suicide Squad" also doesn't make it any more interesting. 

Diaz should've been put to rest for an extended period, so that when he did return it would've been a much more welcome surprise. Instead, his presence is dragging down Arrow, and his involvement with Diggle and Lyla hasn't been promising. 

Just like Oliver after Arrow Season 6, Diggle's in desperate need of a reboot for Diggle because everything he's currently involved in is undeniably stale. 

What did you think of "My Name is Emiko Queen"? 

How did you feel about the introduction of Emiko Queen?

Did you see a romantic spark between Rene and Emiko?

What kind of relationship would you like to see Oliver and Emiko have? 

What do you think happened to Curtis in the future? 

Does Diggle need to be rebooted or retooled? 

Let us know in the comments below and if you need to catch up, make sure to watch Arrow online right here on TV Fanatic! 

Brandon Viera is a staff writer for TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter.

Source: https://www.tvfanatic.com/2019/01/arrow-season-7-episode-10-review-my-name-is-emiko-queen/