#gemma foster

[best-character-named-x-poll]

have you done your daily click

[thepastisapebbleinmyshoe]

Dr. Foster - 2015

[superbeachbum27]

On re-read number million, love this fanfic. I hit that chapter index button with so much hope every time!

“Steph could see the eagerness in Dean’s face. "Alright. Ten minutes, but if he gets it, let me come watch. 

Gemma walked up to her. Her hands glided past Steph’s waist and hugged her, Steph smiling.” A New Start by This_Is_A_Good_Sign

Gemma and Steph having some conversation about Steph’s son. ♥ I miss this fanfiction that much! So, I’ve made this one for you!

Credits: chaitehlatte, lonelyislandz

[thealieninhiding]

Alternate angle of Erica and Kate’s first kiss

Audio from episode and video sourced from:

[savycon63]

Just started watching Doctor Foster starring Suranne Jones. Another awesome BBC series.

[ghostoflyra]

(continuing my thoughts on apples release of The You You Are, heres my first post with more context)

The You You Are is hilarious but its also so so heartbreaking.

We get confirmation that Ricken and Gemma in were really close, and that she was the only one who took Rickens writing seriously. She didn’t make fun of him like Mark did, and her support wasn’t limited to the sort of “thats nice honey” placations that Devon gives. Definitely explains a lot about Ricken’s current behavior-he basically lost his only real friend. One of the biggest and earnest supporters of his art is dead. So of course he tries to fill that gaping loss with the empty words of his mindless followers. Who doesn’t do weird or stupid shit in the absence of true validation?

I'm not trying to say Devon is a bad wife—it's clear she's incredibly patient with Ricken and his stupid sycophant friends. But I can't help but wonder if she sees his writing as just an elaborate hobby and a source of income rather than what it truly is: his life's purpose.

(and I’ve only sort of started talking about Rickens super complex relationship with art in general- he was literally conceived FOR an art project! and his another one of his parents art projects landed him an extended stay in foster care!)

Ricken is so much more of a complicated character then people give him credit for. He’s a self centered goof for sure, but I hope as time goes on the fandom takes him more seriously.

[lands-of-fantasy]

MCU Poster Ladies

Infinity Saga

Gwyneth Paltrow as Pepper Potts

Scarlett Johnasson as Natasha Romanoff / Black Widow

Natalie Portman as Dr. Jane Foster

Jaimie Alexander as Lady Sif

Hayley Atwell as Agent Peggy Carter

Emily VanCamp as Agent Sharon Carter / Agent 13

Zoë Saldaña as Gamora

Karen Gillan as Nebula

Glenn Close as Nova Prime

Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff

Evangeline Lily as Hope van Dyne / The Wasp

Rachel McAdams as Dr. Christine Palmer

Tilda Swinton as the Ancient One

Pom Klementieff as Mantis

Elizabeth Debicki as High Priestress Ayesha

Tessa Thompson as Valkyrie

Cate Blanchett as Hela

Danai Gurira as General Okoye

Letitia Wright as Princess Shuri

Lupita Nyong'o as Nakia

Angela Bassett as Queen Ramonda

Michelle Pfeiffer as Janet van Dyne

Hannah John-Kamen as Ava Starr / Ghost

Brie Larson as Capt. Carol Danvers / Captain Marvel

Lashana Lynch as Capt. Maria Rambeau

Annette Bening as the Supreme Intelligence and Dr. Wendy Lawson / Mar-Vell

Gemma Chan as Minn-Erva

Reggie, Archie, Rizzo, and Gonzo as Goose

Zendaya as Michelle "MJ" Jones

[m4ndysk4nkovich]

On season 9 of my rewatch, and can I say how much I hate how they just completely forget about Ethel after the girls are born? That was Kevin's FIRST daughter, ever. And, the fact that they can take in a foster child without issue just shows how little the writers cared for her? If Ethel Shameless has no fans, then I'm dead.

the thing about amy and gemma is that they wouldn’t be if it wasn’t for ethel. i mean, sure, kev and v were probably going to end up having kids, but ethel running away is what caused the storyline of them becoming parents. and sure, technically dominic’s existence is because of ethel, not amy and gemma’s, but still. she is the main reason kev really wanted to be a dad. so yeah, the fact that the storyline of them as parents lasts the whole show yet there is no ethel mention is infuriating, and then, as you said, santiago comes into the mix and it’s as if ethel didn’t exist. in season three they can’t foster the five younger gallagher siblings because ethel ran away, yet they can foster santiago no problem? at this point john wells is just flaunting his shitty writing/world building. like he wants us to talk about how much he fucking sucks at making shameless and how we, the fandom, could all write it better😭

ethel was such a good character and i miss her so much. she is a big victim of john wells’ stupidity

[stone-stars]

Illuminate me on music!, I'm not good at it but I like hearing people talking things I don't know. So idk, start anywhere I wanna learn. Gimme music faces from emily's work

lol there's SO many places i could start. first, let me say that i get so in the weeds with this. you don't need to be me. however, murph and emily are really deliberate with their music placement so even if you don't go super deep, you can start to notice patterns, especially with the super frequently used songs.

when it comes to frequent songs, alli operationslipperypuppet also did a very helpful "hey how concerned should you be" breakdown of some common songs, which i'll link here. i would say if you want to start paying attention, some easy ones to check out and start listening for are the purge, unknown tome, kingshammer, valiant ol' cobb, mee maw's burden, a fate refused, the campaign themes, twinkling lights of galaderon, and a friend for life. all of these are available on spotify, with the exception of kingshammer, and have very consistent uses. (the bahumia theme isn't by emily, but is on spotify). if you want to hear kingshammer, a good use of it is around 50 minutes into c1e80, during hardwon's flashback (ad free, so you might have to go later for ads)

another thing to note is certain songs get very specific meanings when applied to given characters. mee maw's burden and unknown tome are used incredibly consistently throughout bev sr's hell arc. twinkling lights of galaderon and a bastard no more/hardwon takes the wheel (both names have been used) are used throughout hardwon's.

emily also tends to write a lot of location-based music. a lot of cities have their own themes and their own instrumentation. a great example of this is the tsunaire interlude from c3, which has a very unique sound. also for example, the crick tends to have a lot of similar instrumentation. if you listen through the crick album on spotify, you can start to hear it. there's a lot of strings/piano, drums, and a lot of notes are drawn out in a very specific way.

it's very consistent. there are also like 200+ songs written for this podcast at this point, and so knowing every one of them is insane. but if you start to be like "i've heard this song before, where did i hear it" chances are it's in a moment that connects thematically. i can go into a lot more detail about any of this, this kinda became a "hey here's how to start tracking naddpod music" post more than anything and not really about the themes/uses of songs, but! yeah!

some fun little bonus notes of songs that are only used a few times but that i am insane about the repetition of:

a song called "torn apart" is used when moonshine opens the rift to the feywild during the tarrasque fight, and also when the world is breaking apart after the thiala fight and the boobs heal it

"i just want to know you're taken care of" is the song that is played when moonshine tells paw paw to write up her will. it's also played when lydia tells her that she deserves to be heard by her friends and she should tell them about her plans in hell. it's also used in c3 when callie tells foster that she's sorry for not giving him love.

"a memory" is introduced in episode 100 as thiala shows everyone the failed past adventurers and the "wheel of sorrow". it has recently been used in c3 for both references to the boobs and to melora's adventuring party (melora/telaine/aryox)

there is a specific royalty free (i think) choral song that plays when gemma appears at the party, when gemma dies, when jaina almost kills hardwon, and then later when hardwon dies at scarlet montgomery's hands. do with this what you will.

this isn't about a reuse but the song that plays in ep 70 when moonshine and lucanus are talking is called "a miracle child" and i need more people to know that.

i am insane about "a glittering reunion" (from melora and telaine's in 97) on so many levels. telaine is the piano. melora is the strings. i need to lay down.

[bihanspookies]

YEEHAW XMEN OC

Warnings: depictions of child death (first paragraph)

Gemma Woods

Name: Gemma Jolene Woods

Age: 22

Birthday: February 6th

Birthplace: Nashville, Tennessee

Race: Half white (father) half Dominican (mother)

Powers: Crystallokinesis, ability to manipulate crystalline material.

Hair: Indigo with several strands dyed plum. Very curly and shoulder length

Eyes: Violet

Distinguishing Features: Dimples, small gap in her teeth, round glasses, upturned nose

Height: 5’4

Build: pear shaped

Scars: none

Piercings: one on each lobe

Tattoos: none

Makeup: eyeliner (likes to do fun colors such as blue, green, yellow), lipgloss, mascara.

Clothes: baggy shirts and pants, cardigans, boots, sneakers, t-shirts, knee length dresses, overalls

Languages: English, Spanish and some French.

Personality: Artsy kid, reserved, keeps to herself, quiet. Feels most comfortable when doing art, with other art kids or with Eli (@chadillacboseman).

Likes: Painting (watercolors and oil pastels), pottery, sketching, video games (Nintendo), cats, clowns (and clown makeup), certain insects, instrumental music, her cat Stitches

Dislikes: Math, roaches, large social gatherings, being taken advantage of, not being listened to

History: Born as a premature twin to Adam (a human) and Jolie (a mutant), the new parents joyous time was cut short when a few hours after their babies were born, a nurse came to tragically inform them that Gemma’s sibling had died. Confused, they asked how that could possibly happen, that they were fine earlier in the day. They explained to them that it looked as if their baby had been layered with crystal, the material unfortunately covering the nose and mouth and crushing several bones. It was then that Gemma’s parents realized that she had inherited the x-gene from her mother, something that prior to her, had been dormant for nearly 3 generations.

Since the incident, Gemma is given a shot everyday to suppress her powers until her parents deemed her old enough (10) to start learning how to properly maintain them.

In elementary school she meets Elijah ‘Eli’ Hardin, another mutant with the power of technopathy and who would end up becoming the best friend she always needed. They stuck by each other through thick and thin; Eli being her protector and hero and Gemma being his rock, keeping him grounded.

Throughout high school, Gemma would notice that Eli was starting to become distant with her, hanging around other mutants and beginning to spend less and less time with her. In junior year he disappears completely, causing Gemma to go to his house only to be met with his alcoholic foster parent. He tells her that he doesn’t know his whereabouts and after following a list of dead end clues, she concluded that he was gone.

Now alone once again, Gemma was desperate for a friend which unfortunately landed her in the middle of a prank orchestrated by a group of popular kids. Knowing that Eli wasn’t by her side anymore, they took full advantage of it, humiliating Gemma in front of a crowd as a petty revenge for the times Eli defended her. The prank backfired however, causing Gemma to panic and lose control of her powers. She accidentally set off an attack of crystal and sent them flying into the crowd, severely injuring those around her.

It’s later when Charles Xavier approached Gemma and her family, promising a safe haven for her and a way to properly get a hold of herself at the School For Gifted Youngsters and where she remains currently.

Fun Facts

— She’s a vegetarian!

— She likes to practice her clown painting on Eli, along with other types of makeup and also paints his nails.

— While she’s grateful for being in Xavier’s school, she fears for the time she has to put her powers to use because she doesn’t like having the responsibility of other people’s lives in her hands.

— Her favorite painting is a watercolor by Winslow Homer, “Two Boys Watching Schooners” because it reminds her of her and Eli. Some other favorites include “Flower Garden and Bungalow, Bermuda” (Winslow Homer), “Picking Wildflowers” (Rhonda Holmes Nicholls), and “Red Canna” (Georgia O’Keeffe).

— Her cat is named after Stitches from Animal Crossing.

— For one Halloween she dressed as Jamie Lloyd’s clown from Halloween 4.

— Her style is almost reminiscent of the 80’s and Beverly Marsh (young) from IT (2019).

[shotsofangst]

Not Again

[My hands shook violently as I pulled into my dad's driveway. He met me before I could even park my car. "Mija, I'm so sorry, everyone will be here soon." I got out of my car and wrapped my arms around my adoptive father, Marcus Alvarez. He adopted me after I was sent to foster care when I was five. My biological father, Jesus Vargas was his best friend and VP when I was really little. My father was on death row in Stockton for killing my mother and her boyfriend at the time for abusing me. When I got to work this morning I got a call from the warden that my father was beaten to death in the showers very early this morning.] I DO NOT want Angel here, Papi. [Marcus kissed my hair and whispered. "I know and he won't be. Mijo! Come get your sister huh?" I was confused, but I couldn't form words. Then I hit my knees as my older brother Esai stood in the garage watching me. "J Bug, what's wrong? Did you spend way too much time in Santo Padre? You look like you've seen a ghost." I couldn't move but I was picked up off the driveway by Esai. "J, seriously what's wrong with you?" I looked up at Esai and shook my head.] You died! SAMCRO stabbed you in the head and Papi paid them! [Esai held me tight. "Pop! Angel told her SAMCRO killed me. You wanna call Charming and get Teller here? That's why she disappeared on us." As soon as I was brought into the house I could smell all the wonderful food being cooked. "Esai! She looks sick. Marcus! What did you do to our baby?" My mother the only one that mattered other than Gemma Teller. "Mama, Angel was telling her lies this whole time. She thought Pop had me killed by SAMCRO." My hands were shaking as I listened to my mother. GOOD GOD! NO! Juliana Marie, you know your Papi wouldn't do that! Jax wouldn't either he's your best friend. He knows how much Esai means to you. Is that why you haven't said anything to anyone in a few years?" I nodded and hugged my knees.] I left him, Mama. I left Angel. [I was pulled into a hug and my mother's soft voice soothed me. "For more than the lies?" I swallowed back a sob as I answered her question.] He got someone else pregnant. [The roar of Harleys in the driveway made me want to hide. Not only was my biological father killed, but I'd just broken my own heart all over again having to tell my family that my marriage was over. "Mija, someone is here to see you." I groaned.] Papi, I really don't... [I stopped talking when white Nikes came into view. I lifted my eyes and saw @ofcrosnangst standing at the end of the couch.] Jax!

[thealieninhiding]

Dates (2013) A Deep Dive

Supplemental material, behind the scenes, Clips from episode 6 Erica and Callum

Erica and Kate’s Dating profiles from Channel 4’s website (via archive)

Official episode synopsis from Channel 4’s website (via archive)

Erica talking about Kate to Callum at the end of Episode 6 - Erica and Callum

Selected clips from Episode 6 Erica and Callum

Kate: A Story Inspired by The New Hit Series Dates by Jamie Chan

A companion ebook, set after episode 4

Episode 4 Behind the Scenes

Just Katie’s segments from the bts

Episode 6 Behind the Scenes

[reflectionfamily]

Intro to Us - Masterpost

We’re The Reflection Family, a collective of over 200 members (so far) in eight different branches sharing a body. Our collective is organized into several distinct groups and categories, reflecting different origins, roles, and characteristics of our coanimans. Each branch has its unique dynamics and members, influenced by their proximity to certain fragments.

Types of Coanimans: A Guide to Our Color Coding

• The Original (White): Mckayla, the primary coaniman associated with the body.

• Core (Dark Grey): Human coanimans who are direct splits from Mckayla, sharing similar physical traits.

• Undead (Black): Coanimans disconnected from reality due to near-death experiences; not necessarily direct splits.

• Hypnosis (Desaturated Pink): Coanimans created via hypnosis, either accidentally or intentionally.

• Non-Human (Purple): Coanimans that are either direct splits or introjects of animals.

• Fiction-Sourced (Light Pink): Introjects named after fictional characters or celebrities.

• IRL-Sourced (Teal): Introjects from real-life relationships.

• Fragments (Green): Coanimans embodying singular characteristics and influencing nearby parts when co-conscious.

• Spirits (Light Grey): Protective entities or guides within the system.

Overview of Our Structure

Hosts: Who's in the background?

The hosts in the collective not only manage daily life, social interactions, and external relationships but also play a crucial role in preserving long-term memory recall within a collective memory bank. They act as the primary points of interaction with the outside world, ensuring that the collective's needs and responsibilities are met while maintaining a stable presence. By embodying qualities such as adaptability, resilience, and social awareness, the hosts effectively navigate diverse situations and challenges, presenting a cohesive identity to those outside the collective. Through their ability to coordinate with other parts and maintain access to shared memories, the hosts ensure continuity and a functional existence, bridging the internal world with external reality and fostering a sense of cohesion and unity within the collective.

• Veronica - 23-24 - Oversees relationships and social interactions.

• Sel - 17-24 - Manages school-related tasks.

• Selene - 18-24 - Focused on work and professional responsibilities.

• A39 - ageless - Responsible for switching between parts.

The Gatekeepers: Who Runs The System, Really?

The gatekeepers in the collective are vital entities responsible for managing and regulating access to various aspects of the inner world and the collective's complex internal landscape. They oversee the flow of memories, emotions, and information, ensuring that the right coanimans come forward when needed and that sensitive or potentially destabilizing memories are kept at bay until they can be safely processed. The gatekeepers also play a protective role, shielding more vulnerable members from traumatic recollections or overwhelming emotions. By maintaining a delicate balance between different parts and their experiences, the gatekeepers facilitate smoother transitions and interactions within the collective, contributing to overall stability and coherence in navigating daily life and therapeutic work.

• Charlotte - 20-45 - Gatekeeps the IRL subgroup.

• Jade - 15-24 - Oversees the Teens.

• James - 17-19 - Manages the Guys & Gays.

• Sarah - 8-20 - Responsible for the Middles.

• Elena - 8-14 - Oversees the Littles/Munchkins.

• Gemma - 25-45 - Responsible for the Hypnos.

• Patricia - 12-20 - Oversees the Shadows, managing more hidden or complex parts.

• Kara - 4-40 - Helps Fictional-Sourced members.

• Valzor - 30-43 - Manages parts connected to innerworld characters.

The Fragments - The 4 Corners of the Mind

The four fragments—Quietus, Reject, Bate, and Amends—each contribute to the collective's overall balance and resilience, shaping how the group interacts with both its internal landscape and the external world. These fragments represent different approaches to coping, healing, and navigating life's complexities, influencing the way coanimans respond to experiences and challenges. Together, they create a dynamic and multifaceted internal structure that fosters growth, adaptability, and a deeper understanding of self and surroundings, allowing for a cohesive yet varied approach to managing the collective's needs and interactions.

1. Quietus - Control and Repression - Quietus represents control, repression, and emotional suppression. As a fragment, Quietus embodies a deep need for stability, often at the cost of suppressing unwanted emotions and memories. This influence creates an environment where emotional expression is minimized to maintain order and prevent chaos within the system.

2. Reject - Identity and Exclusion - Reject grapples with feelings of rejection, self-worth, and exclusion. This fragment represents the internal struggle with identity and belonging, influencing coanimans who question their value and place within the collective. Reject’s influence is marked by a constant battle for self-acceptance and understanding, reflecting the complexities of identity formation and emotional growth.

3. Bate - Power and Anger - Bate embodies strength, power, and anger. This fragment channels defensive and assertive behaviors to protect or assert boundaries within the system. Bate’s influence is rooted in experiences of confrontation and resilience, shaping coanimans who are unafraid to express anger or assert their needs. This fragment also represents a willingness to fight against perceived threats or injustices, using power as a means of protection.

4. Amends - Comfort and Detachment - Amends focuses on comfort, detachment, and exploration. This fragment embodies the need for emotional solace and the detachment from painful or overwhelming experiences. Amends’ influence encourages exploration of inner worlds, seeking comfort through creativity, fantasy, and introspection. This fragment is characterized by a desire for emotional safety, often finding refuge in inner worlds and imaginative escapes.

Mckayla - The Original Lineage

Mckayla - 10 - The Original: The primary coaniman associated with the body, representing her current maturity level with therapy. Initially, she was stuck at age 6 when parts therapy began but has matured through therapeutic work.

Outside: The Ascended

Marah - The Unborn and Unique Presence

Marah - [Undead]: Represents Selene’s unborn daughter, a unique member within the collective, reflecting themes of unrealized potential and the complex emotional layers surrounding life, loss, and what could have been. She holds a special place in the collective, symbolizing a blend of innocence and the mysteries of existence.

Quietus’ Sphere of Influence - The Repressive Sphere

Quietus - Control and Repression - A fragment of control and repression, Quietus influences coanimans characterized by suppression, emotional restraint, and efforts to maintain stability by managing unwanted emotions and memories.

• Doe - The Watcher - A protective spirit animal within Quietus’ sphere, embodying caution and vigilance, overseeing the coanimans within this line.

Lil’s Line - The Innocence and Attachment Path

Lil’s line focuses on innocence, early childhood memories, and various forms of attachment and loss, exploring how these emotions manifest within the system.

Lil’s Subsystem - The Innocence Path

Lil represents the youngest, most innocent form, embodying early childhood. Her line expands through various aged-up versions that represent a progression from innocence to maturity:

• Lil - 2-4 - The Innocent [Core]: Represents the youngest, most innocent form, embodying early childhood.

• Lils - 5-9 [Core]: An aged-up version of Lil, representing an older and more developed form of innocence.

• Lily - 10-14 [Core]: Aged-up version of Lils; the “big” version, half-cat, half-human, based on the system’s cat.

• Lilith - 16-24 [Core]: The adult version of Lily, embodying a mature form of innocence.

Love’s Subsystem - The Attachment and Loss Line

Love embodies obsessive love and attachment, which further branches out into various representations of love and care, highlighting the complexities of relational dynamics within the system:

• Love - 13 - The Obsessive [Core]: Represents obsessive love, and splits into:

• Elena - 8-14 - The Caregiver [Core]: Represents sibling love and serves as a caregiver to the littles.

• Cherry - 17-18 - The Romantic [Core]: Represents romantic love.

• Nicole - 20-29 - The Sister [IRL]: Represents adoptive family connections.

• Michelle - 20-35 - The Protector [IRL]: Another representation of adoptive family ties.

Preciousy’s Subsystem - The Hypno Line

Preciousy, originally a cat, becomes a Hypno due to a traumatic loss. Her line focuses on themes of loss and trauma, represented by various parts that embody different aspects of these experiences:

• Preciousy - 6-16 - The Lost [Hypno]: Originally the system’s cat, now a Hypno due to trauma.

• Kat - 12-14 - The Feline [Hypno]: Represents a young version dealing with the emotional trauma of loss.

• Katerina [Core]: Further explores the themes of loss and attachment.

• Lindsey [IRL]: Represents deeper feelings of abandonment and healing.

• Bambi - 19 [Hypno]: Represents a mature aspect dealing with sensuality.

Clarissa’s Subsystem - The Machine Line

Clarissa, within Lil’s branch, is a unique entity representing non-human, mechanical aspects, emphasizing themes of emotionlessness and functionality:

• Clarissa - The Machine [Hypno]: A unique, machine-like entity that does not conform to typical human emotions.

• A39 - ageless [Hypno]: A drone responsible for mechanical tasks and operations.

• Syn - ageless [Hypno]: An AI system designed for processing and organizing information.

• Synth - ageless [Hypno]: A teen part handling intermediate tasks.

• Synthia - ageless [Hypno]: The adult part responsible for more complex operations.

Rosie’s Line - The Creative and Resilient Path

Rosie’s line focuses on creativity, resilience, and leadership, exploring themes of beauty, creative spirit, and artistic expression through various coanimans in this line.

Rosie’s Subsystem - The Creative Line

Rosie represents an early emotional split with creative tendencies, leading to various manifestations of creativity and artistic expression:

• Rosie - The Creative [Core]: Represents an early emotional split with a focus on creativity.

• Rose - 14-18 - The Resilient [Core]: Embodies themes of beauty and resilience.

• Rosalina - 10-14 [Core]: Represents a youthful creative spirit continuing Rosie’s theme.

Little Red’s Subsystem - The Survivor’s Path

Little Red explores themes of survival and caution, embodying resilience in the face of adversity:

• Little Red - 4-10 - The Survivor [Fiction]: Represents themes of survival and caution.

• Snow - 14-22 [Fiction]: Embodies themes of cold detachment and perseverance.

Cleopatra’s Subsystem - The Leadership Line

Cleopatra’s line is centered around leadership and heritage, embodying strength and leadership qualities:

• Cleopatra - 16-25 - The Leader [Fiction]: Represents themes of leadership and heritage.

• Marie - 14-18 [Fiction]: Embodies grace and poise.

• Mary - 16-19 [Fiction]: A youthful version dealing with innocence and purity.

Éponine’s Subsystem - The Unrequited Love Line

Éponine’s line represents themes of unrequited love and self-sacrifice, exploring emotional depth and complexity:

• Éponine - [Fiction]: Represents themes of unrequited love and self-sacrifice.

Reject’s Sphere of Influence - The Identity and Exclusion Sphere

Reject - Identity and Exclusion - Embodies the struggle with rejection, self-worth, and belonging, influencing coanimans who grapple with their sense of identity.

Angel’s Line - The Shadowed Innocence and Rejection Path

Angel’s line navigates themes of innocence entangled with feelings of rejection, exploring the dynamics of identity and self-worth through various manifestations within the system.

Angel’s Subsystem - The Shadowed Innocence Line

Angel, rooted in a childhood nickname, deals with themes of shadowed innocence and entrapment, reflecting on memories tied to familial nicknames and shadowy experiences:

• Angel - The Shadowed Innocent [Core]: Connected to a childhood nickname, represents innocence and purity.

• Angelica - [Core]: Trapped in the shadow realm as a child.

• Angelique - [Core]: Adult version who carries shared memories from Angelica’s time in the shadow realm.

Jordan and Caileigh’s Subsystem - The Almost-Identity Line

This subsystem explores identities that almost were, reflecting on alternate life paths and identities that the body might have had:

• Jordan - 8-16 - The Boy That Wasn’t [Core]: Represents a male identity that the body might have had.

• Caileigh - 8-14 - The Twin [Core]: Another almost-name, twin to Jordan.

• Lauren - [IRL]: Based on a real-life school friend.

BB Grrl’s Subsystem - The Nickname Line

BB Grrl represents another nickname that forms a distinct line exploring different facets of identity, shaped by external influences and introjections:

• BB Grrl - [Core]: Nickname-based coaniman.

• Miss Blank - [Core]: Views herself as the stepfather’s daughter.

• Gemma - 25-45 - The Anarchist [Fiction]: Connected to “Sons of Anarchy.”

• Tara - [Fiction]: Also inspired by “Sons of Anarchy.”

Nico’s Subsystem - The Bug Line

Nico’s line represents themes of fragility and resilience, characterized by nonverbal communication and various representations of small, resilient creatures:

• Nico - [IRL]: Introject of stepdad’s son.

• Bug - [Non-Human]: Represents smallness and fragility.

• Ant - [Non-Human]: Embodies diligence and teamwork.

• Flea - [Non-Human]: Represents resilience and survival.

• Ladybug - [Non-Human]: Carries themes of luck and protection.

Chica’s Subsystem - The Lost Doll Line

Chica, embodying a lost childhood object, explores themes of playfulness and loss, reflecting on childhood experiences and the creation of playful personas:

• Chica - [Core]: A Mexican doll reflecting childhood memories.

• Señorita Squishyface - [Core]: A playful persona that emerged from having her cheeks squished together to be cute.

Michaela’s Line - The Familial Memory and Identity Path

Michaela’s line is deeply rooted in family memories and identities, reflecting the various aspects of familial roles, relationships, and the complexities of family dynamics within the system.

Millie’s Subsystem - The Childhood Memory Line

Millie encompasses early childhood memories, capturing the innocence and experiences of youth and representing foundational aspects of the family identity:

• Millie - 0-14 [Core]: Embodies young memories, up to age 14.

• Tigger - [Non-Human]: Represents a past pet horse.

• Magic - [Non-Human]: Represents another past pet horse.

Kayla’s Subsystem - The Animal Care Line

Kayla represents a strong connection to animals and veterinary skills, showcasing a deep commitment to caring for and understanding animals:

• Kayla - [Core]: Represents veterinary skills and animal care.

• Abraham - [Non-Human]: Represents a specific animal connection.

• Sarai - [Non-Human]: Represents another specific animal connection.

• Winter - [Non-Human]: Represents care for a baby squirrel.

Mckay and Mikey’s Subsystem - The Twin Identity Line

Mckay and Mikey explore the dynamics of gender and twin identities, showcasing the fluidity and complexity of self-identification within the system:

• Mckay - [Core]: Represents a genderfluid aspect of Michaela.

• Mikey - 8-15 - The Boy Twin [Core]: Represents a boy version who eventually split into two parts.

• Mickey - 13-18 [Core]: A trans demi-girl.

• MJ - 16-19 [Core]: An older teen boy.

Jezebel’s Subsystem - The Protector and Fighter Line

Jezebel represents themes of protection and fighting spirit, embodying a defensive and assertive role within the system to manage conflict and anger:

• Jezebel - 24 - The Fighter [Core]: Emerged during a physical altercation with a family member.

• Valerie - 24 [Core]: Represents anger and protection.

Liz’s Subsystem - The Maternal Influence Line

Liz, along with her splits, embodies different aspects of maternal influence and roles, reflecting complex relationships with the mother figure:

• Liz - 30 [IRL]: Represents Michaela’s real mother.

• Eliza - 18-30 [IRL]: Represents a Catholic witch version.

• Lizzy - 18-30 [IRL]: Represents a nurse version.

• Bobbiette - 18-30 [IRL]: Represents a best friend from the mother’s high school years.

Support Figures Subsystem - The Guiding and Supportive Influences

This line also includes figures who have provided guidance, support, or therapeutic influence within the system, showcasing roles of caretaking and mentorship:

• Kristi - [IRL]: Represents Michaela’s therapist.

• Jenny - 30-35 [IRL]: Represents a surrogate mother figure.

Jade’s Line - The Intersex and Trauma Identity Path

Jade’s line reflects the complexity of intersex identity and trauma, exploring themes of gender, personal and adoptive identities, and the impact of past relationships and experiences.

Jade’s Subsystem - The Intersex Identity Line

Jade, embracing an intersex identity, due to PCOS, high testosterone, and genetic endometriosis, and navigates the interplay of personal and adoptive identities within hxr subsystem:

• Jade - The Intersex Identity [Core]: Integrates both personal and adoptive identities, reflecting an intersex identity and the navigation of related complexities.

• CJ - The Trans Demi-Guy [Core]: Represents a young trans demi-guy, highlighting an early stage of gender exploration.

• JC - The Teen Male [Core]: An older split from CJ, representing the evolution of gender identity into the teen years.

• James - The Adult Intersex Male [Core]: An adult manifestation of intersex identity, encompassing the culmination of gender exploration and identity solidification.

Selene’s Subsystem - The Trauma and Relationship Line

Selene’s line deals with trauma and relationship dynamics, reflecting on past experiences and the impact of relational ties:

• Selene - [Core]: Central co-host with a large subsystem.

• Chlöe - [Core]: A recent split due to medication changes.

• Leena - [Core]: Holds relationship trauma from the last ex.

• Sel - [Core]: School host, splits into Celeste, Ivy, and Ruby.

• Ruby - [Core]: Holds sexual trauma, splits into:

• Warren (IRL): an ex

• Wren (Core): tied to Warren, possibly undead

• Marissa - 19 - [Hypno]: a bimbo who spits into:

• Harley (Fiction): Harley Quinn

• Mav (IRL): of a past partner

Charlotte’s Subsystem - The Legacy Line

Charlotte’s subsystem encapsulates familial and fictional influences, integrating various introjects that represent different aspects of familial history and personal attachments:

• Charlotte - [Core]: Jade’s grandmother.

• Ty - [Core]: Represents Charlotte’s nephew.

• Midnight - [Non-Human]: Her Mother’s horse.

• Maxine - [Non-Human]: Her Cat.

• Nina - [Non-Human]: Her Sister’s dog.

• Laura Ingalls Wilder - [Fiction]: Fictional introject from “Little House on the Prairie.”

• Anne - [Fiction]: Introject from “Anne of Green Gables.”

Celebrity Influences Subsystem - The Iconic Personas Line

This subsystem reflects the integration of celebrity influences, embodying themes of understanding, strength, and mental health awareness through iconic personas:

• Carrie Fisher - [Fiction]: Represents a connection to mental health advocacy and trauma understanding.

• Amy Lee - [Fiction]: Symbolizes themes of emotional expression and resilience in dealing with personal struggles.

Bate’s Sphere of Influence - The Power and Anger Branch

Bate - Power and Anger - Influences coanimans who embody strength, power, and anger, often manifesting as defensive or assertive behaviors to protect or assert themselves.

• Amaraeth - The Guardian - A guardian spirit within Bate’s sphere, embodying spiritual power and protection, guiding coanimans under Bate’s influence.

Violet’s Line - The Undead Path

Violet’s line explores themes of survival, transformation, and undead characteristics, reflecting on near-death experiences and the journey of strength and resilience.

Violet’s Subsystem - The Undead and Flower Line

Violet starts the undead and flower line due to a near-death experience. This subsystem reflects themes of survival, transformation, and protection:

• Violet - The Survivor [Undead]: Created due to near-death experiences.

• Lilac - [Non-Human]: Represents another part of the flower line.

• Poppy - [Non-Human]: Represents another flower line extension.

• Jasmine - [Non-Human]: Represents further depth in the flower line.

• Iris - 19 - The Defender [Undead]: A defender coaniman above body-age, often managing protection roles.

• Kali - 19-25 [Undead]: Embodies themes of destruction and transformation.

• Cora - [Fiction]: A fictional mother introject, representing nurturing and protection.

• Kira - 14-18 [Undead]: A dominant part during high school.

• Ranèe - [Undead]: A bigender version of a high school best friend.

• Veronica - 23-24 [Half-Undead]: One of the current hosts.

Veronica’s Subsystem - The Host and Introject Line

Veronica’s subsystem explores themes of hosting and introjection, reflecting on relationships and the blending of internal and external influences:

• Veronica - 23-24 [Half-Undead]: One of the current hosts.

• Todd - [IRL]: An introject of the system’s boyfriend.

• Lady - [IRL]: A female introject of the boyfriend.

• April - [Hypno]: A happy hypno part.

• Doll - [Hypno]: Another, this time porcelain, doll

• Mistress - [Hypno]: A Mistress.

Patricia’s Subsystem - The Shadow Realm Line

Patricia, a vampire gatekeeper of the shadow realm, explores themes of memory manipulation and subconscious control, reflecting on the system’s shadow aspects:

• Patricia - 12-20 - The Gatekeeper [Undead]: A vampire gatekeeper of the shadow realm.

• Bryce - 18 [IRL]: Created accidentally during memory repression.

Kara’s Subsystem - The Fictive Gatekeeper Line

Kara (Supergirl) is the gatekeeper of fictives, reflecting on themes of imagination and the role of fiction in shaping internal experiences and identities:

• Kara - 4-40 - The Fictive Gatekeeper [Fiction]: Helps manage fictives and introduces fictional character elements.

• Minnie - 3-8 [Fiction]: Represents “Minnie Mouse,” the mini mom.

• Melody - 4-9 [Fiction]: Represents “Ariel’s daughter,” the mermaid.

• Mulan - [Fiction]: Represents “Mulan,” the warrior.

• Sara - [Fiction]: Represents “The Little Princess.”

• Annaliese - 18-19 [Fiction]: Represents “Barbie (Princess and the Pauper).”

• Hannah M - 12-15 [Fiction]: Represents “Hannah Montana.”

• Lilia - 8-18 [IRL]: Represents an introject from a real-life friend.

Shared Sphere of Influence - The Resilient Power and Comfort Sphere

Shared Influence from Amends and Bate - Power and Comfort -This sphere merges the influences of Bate, emphasizing power and anger, with Amends, focusing on comfort and detachment, creating a blend of strength and comfort-seeking behaviors.

Sarah’s Line - The Faithful and Spiritual Path

Sarah’s line encompasses themes of faith, spirituality, and resilience, reflecting on the journey of inner strength and spiritual connection within the system.

Sarah’s Subsystem - The Faithful and Spiritual Line

Sarah V is a core figure embodying faith and introspection. Her subsystem is diverse, exploring deep spiritual connections and biblical influences:

• Sarah V - The Faithful [Core]: Represents a deep connection to faith and internal reflection.

• Teva Levanna - [Core]: Represents a transformation during conversion classes to Judaism.

Esther’s Subsystem - The Biblical Triad and Protective Spirits

Centered around biblical and protective themes, this subsystem explores different aspects of familial and romantic stories, as well as protection within the system:

• Esther - 16-18 [Core]: Represents a Biblical influence with several splits:

• Rebecca - 8-12 [Core]: Represents a young, foundational Biblical character.

• Leah - [Core]: Represents the “unloved” Biblical figure.

• Rachel - 12-20 [Core]: Represents the “beloved” counterpart.

• Eliana - [IRL]: Represents a protective response to a traumatic experience.

• Belle - [Core]: Represents a romantic influence.

Zara’s Subsystem - The Intellectual and Feline Line

Zara’s line explores intellectual and feline themes, reflecting on scholarly aspects and protective instincts within familial relationships:

• Zara - [Core]: Formerly known as Sarah F.

• Natalie - [Core]: Represents a refined, scholarly aspect.

• Diana - 30-45 [IRL]: Represents a grandmother figure introject with specific traits.

• Cleo - 23 [Non-human]: Represents a sweet, black and white Persian cat.

• Shay - 12-16 [Non-human]: Represents a more reserved and cautious cat.

Aurora’s Kingdom Subsystem - The Inner World Builders

Sarah V also constructed an inner world known as The Kingdom of Aurora, a realm reflecting the system’s creative and spiritual depths. This world is inhabited by various characters and represents the complex interplay between creativity and spiritual introspection:

• Lizbeth - [IRL]: Represents a mother figure in the inner world.

• Valzor - 30-43 [Non-human]: Represents a metaphorical introject and antagonist.

• June - 2-15 [Non-human]: Represents a clone of Jade with embedded trauma memories.

• Scarlett - 8-15 [Non-human]: Represents a clone of Sarah with embedded trauma memories.

• Genie - 30-45 [Non-human]: Represents a shapeshifter with mystical ties.

• Solaria - [Non-human]: Represents a swamp witch with connections to inner narratives.

• Riku - [Non-human]: Represents an advisor to a fictional queen.

• Maya - 45-60 [Non-human]: Represents a slain dragon mother.

• Zayn - 6-19 [Non-human]: Represents her son turned dragon.

• Keeper of Secrets - [Non-human]: Represents a Gorian linked to subconscious thoughts.

• Daniel - 28-33 [Non-human]: Represents a pretty boy introject.

• Hunter - 18-30 [Non-human]: Represents a lover of animals.

• Xander - 25-35 [Non-human]: Represents a photography enthusiast.

• Zen - 35-50 [Non-human]: Represents a peaceful lover.

Amends’ Sphere of Influence - The Comfort and Detachment Sphere

Amends - Comfort and Detachment - Focuses on coanimans who provide comfort or exhibit a significant detachment from the core self, reflecting themes of exploration, longing, and searching for connection.

Callie’s Line - The Detachment and Exploration Path

Callie’s line focuses on themes of detachment, exploration, and the search for connection, often reflecting experiences related to childhood trauma and the longing for belonging and comfort.

Callie’s Subsystem - The Foster Care Twins and Fantasy Line

Callie embodies the detachment experienced during early childhood trauma in foster care. Her direct splits, Roslyn and Luna, explore themes of enchantment and escapism:

• Callie - The Explorer [Core]: Represents the first split in foster care, disconnected from Mckayla directly.

• Roslyn - [Core]: Represents a twin aspect, inspired by the first foster home experience.

• Nessie - [Non-human]: Represents a fae connection from a magical encounter.

Luna’s Subsystem - The Star Wars Galaxy Explorers

Luna’s fascination with space and escapism led her to craft an entire inner world inspired by the Star Wars galaxy, populated by various characters that reflect her desire to explore unknown territories:

• Luna - 8-16 [IRL]: Represents a space-loving, daydreamer persona.

• Tuila - 16 [Non-human]: Represents a “Star Wars” inspired character.

• Carina - [Non-human]: Represents a nebula-inspired character.

• Orion - [Non-human]: Represents another nebula inspiration.

• Venus - [Non-human]: Represents a planet-based inspiration.

• Eros - [Non-human]: Represents an asteroid-inspired character.

• Leo - [Non-human]: Represents a constellation-based character.

• Pluto - [Non-human]: Represents another planet-based inspiration.

Callie’s Fictive Subsystem - The Motherless Characters

Callie also developed a series of fictive alters reflecting themes of abandonment and searching for belonging, focusing on characters who are motherless or seeking maternal connections:

• Dorothy - 14-18 [Fiction]: Represents a motherless fictive who feels homeless.

• Eloise - 9-12 [Fiction]: Represents a character waiting for her mother’s visits.

• Lilo - 6-12 [Fiction]: Represents “Lilo” from “Lilo and Stitch,” symbolizing found family and resilience.

• Madeline - 6-10 [Fiction]: Represents a boarding school student.

• Rapunzel - [Fiction]: Represents a character given up by her parents.

Callie's Adoption and Friendship Subsystem

Callie’s experiences with adoption are explored through parts that reflect themes of identity formation and friendship within an adoptive context:

• Hannah S - [IRL]: Represents a friend introject who is also adopted, symbolizing shared experiences of adoption and identity search.

--- End.

[the-forest-library]

June 2023 Reads

Return of the Thief - Megan Whalen Turner

Moira’s Pen - Megan Whalen Turner

Once More With Feeling - Elissa Susan

Cassandra in Reverse - Holly Smale

Ciao for Now - Kate Bromley

The Happy Life of Isadora Bentley - Courtney Walsh

Same Time Next Summer - Annabel Monaghan

Meet You in the Middle - Devon Daniels

Not Here to Stay Friends - Kaitlyn Hill

What Happens After Midnight - K.L. Walther

The Wishing Game - Meg Shaffer

Some Shall Break - Ellie Marney

Bryony and Roses - T. Kingfisher

As Old As Time - Liz Braswell

Such Sharp Teeth - Rachel Harrison

Jasmine Zumideh Needs a Win - Susan Azim Boyer

Yellowface - R.F. Kuang

Charlotte Illes is Not a Detective - Katie Siegel

Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret - Judy Blume

The Princess and the Grilled Cheese Sandwich - Deya Muniz

She-Hulk, Vol 2: Jen of Hearts - Rainbow Rowell

Happily Ever After - Debbie Tung

Book Love - Debbie Tung

The Worrier’s Guide to Life - Gemma Correll

Cryptid Club - Sarah Andersen

Escargot - Dashiki Slater

Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs - Judi Barrett & Ron Barrett

Hooked - Sutton Foster

Better Living Through Birding - Christian Cooper

Have More Fun - Mandy Arioto

Notes from a Public Typewriter - Michael Gustafson

These Precious Days - Ann Patchett

It Was An Ugly Couch Anyway - Elizabeth Passarella

Dear Girls - Ali Wong 

Where to Start - Mental Health America

The Vegan Week - Gena Hamshaw

Bold = Highly Recommend Italics = Worth It Crossed out = Nope

Thoughts:

I am now in a world with no more Queen’s Thief books to look forward to, but what a marvelous ride it was. This is now one of my favorite series, and I eagerly look forward to whatever Megan Whalen Turner does next. 

Also, I didn’t mean to read two beauty and the beast retellings back-to-back, but it was fun to compare them. The highlight was T. Kingfisher’s Bryony and Roses, which was absolutely lovely. 

Goodreads Goal: 210/400

2017 Reads | 2018 Reads | 2019 Reads | 2020 Reads | 2021 Reads|

2022 Reads | 2023 Reads

[zosa95]

Gemma sat on the dock sobbing. A year ago today, she'd received the phone call that her mother had died. Kelly was a shit mom, but she had been family, the only family Gemma had. Without her, Gemma didn't have any roots. But recent dreams had Gemma questioning the truth of that. She had a father somewhere. And he wanted her. So, why had he abandoned her, leaving her with that psychotic bitch? Was he dead, or did he decide he didn't want her anymore? Was she that unlovable? Would Markus start feeling the same?

Father: I want custody of Gemma

Kelly: (harsh laughter) I imagine your wife might object to your bastard child.

Father: She knows everything, and she wants Gemma, too. Gemma will be loved and cared for.

Kelly: No.

Father: You're in no shape to raise a child.

Kelly: You've been stalking me? You. Can't. Have. Her. Not now. Not ever. She's my ticket to Del Sol.

Father: (raised voice) I won't let you use her like that. I will take you to court. You're a drunk and spend almost every night in the bar hooking up with randos.

Kelly: Didn't bother you when you were the rando.

Father: I was separated from my wife; you and I had an fling. It wasn't some drunken one-night stand, and you damn well know it.

Kelly: Whatever. You can't have the kid.

Father: I will fight you, and you will lose.

Kelly: (icily) And I will line up three friends swearing you abused their little girls. You'll be arrested and never shake the cloud of suspicion. You'll lose your job. It will tear your precious marriage apart. You'll lose your kids. And your mother's lucrative career will be toast. I'll have Gemma in foster care before I let you have her. And don't think I won't do it. You know I will.

[scaredyspooks]

Minerva (Minnie) Brooks

Name: Minerva Brooks Aliases: Minnie, Mouse, Maus, Mysh Age: 24 years old Nationality: English Polyamorous or Monogamous: Polyamorous Sexual/Romantic Orientations: Heterosexual Relationship Status: In a polycule with Nikto, König, Krueger and Horangi. Occupation: Stealth Operative in KorTac

Height: 5'3" (160 cm) Physique: Muscular, petite. Eyes: Blue/grey. Hair: Dark brown, straight, bob. Defining Features: Minnie has a rose tattoo across her collarbones, a deep scar running diagonally from her the left side of her jaw to the right side of her hairline, and another nasty scar that cuts straight across her jugular.

Personality: Minnie is determined and self-sufficient. She enjoys feeling cared for and looked after, but if you treat her like a child she will very quickly make you regret it. She loves sports, when not in the field she enjoys cross country running, parkour, gymnastics, MMA, rugby and weight lifting. She's incredibly proud of her personal dead lift record, 150lbs, which is impressive consid

Backstory (CW: mention of SA): Minnie and Gemma's parents passed away when the twins were four, landing them in the foster care system until they aged out. In that time, they had varied experiences with their guardians, and never felt settled. This led to them growing even closer than they were already, and now in adulthood they stay in constant communication, despite working for different military groups. At the age of 20, a representative from Shadow Company scouted Minnie at a career fair in her uni, and soon enough she became a trainee stealth operative for the PMC, working in Graves' unit. As time wore on, they formed a bond. One where Minnie adored him, looked up to him, and was utterly infatuated. And one where her being so much younger and smaller than him, made him feel powerful. Eventually, she was sent on a solo recon mission, based in a cabin somewhere in Russia. Coincidentally, on what was meant to be a two week mission, apparently a mole had been discovered in Shadow Company, making it "unsafe" for her to return home or stay in contact. Minnie ended up living in total isolation, having to live off hunting and gathering, for three years. Once she eventually fought her way back home, she was broken. Naturally, she broke things off with Graves. And naturally, he didn't like that. In brief, after having her drink spiked on a night out, she awoke below Graves in his quarters, and when she started fighting back he made an attempt on her life, resulting in the scars across her jugular and face. With the help of Gemma and her unit, Minnie was able to get fast tracked into a transfer to KorTac.