#grumpy seme

[itsjulesharper]

Three Act Structure - Love Tractor

Love Tractor is an 8-episode Korean BL drama, adapted from a webtoon, and available on iQIYI. Analysing the scenes and trying to put this series into 3 Act structure was a bit of a challenge, due to the possibility of multiple “Oh, SHIT Moments” and at one stage I was unclear about the Point of No Return, but here’s what I finally settled on.  Remember not all the points follow the same order in every series, and in Love Tractor, some happen quickly while others have a greater build up. But overall, this series is purely romance-as-plot so my breakdown follows that.  Enjoy!

Story Tropes - fish out of water, grumpy seme/sunshine uke, strangers to lovers, slow burn romance, return of the evil ex, pining in secret, asshole father, child in danger, caring small community.

Story Question - will Yul heal from past hurt, follow his dreams and fall in love with farmer boy YeChan?

First Act (The Ordinary World)

We see Yul as the smartest guy in class, on track to go study law at Harvard. Instead, he drops out to look after his grandfather’s place because his grandfather - the local village chief - is in hospital in Seoul.  We see YeChan, a 20yo happy-go-lucky farmer, in his Ordinary World, doing farmer things. Then YeChan rescues Yul’s car from the mud and Yul is suspicious, which is further exacerbated when YeChan appears in the grandfather’s house unannounced.  

Call to Adventure Yul loses his grandfather’s dog. YeChan helps him find it. YeChan is so upbeat and positive (in direct contrast to Yul), but he still encourages the uptight, formal Yul to embrace (and be embraced by) the local village. They wrestle with honourifics and formalities (Yul is 27).

Refusal of the Call —> Acceptance This happens when YeChan drags Yul along to introduce him to the village and the villagers. 

Crossing the Threshold Major culture shock for Yul but also he goes along with YeChan with little pushback.

ACT 2 - Into the New World

Acclimatising to the New World A reluctant Yul starts to accept the ways and laid-back atmosphere of the small community.  He’s given a rice drink (which he refuses multiple times because yucko) and it sits in his fridge for a while.

Enemies and Mentors Yul’s father, who is an arrogant, abusive perfectionist.  The town elder, who is YeChan’s confidante and literal relationship mentor.  YeChan’s mother. Various townspeople. Yul’s vile ex. An orphan girl who makes Yul realise a few home truths. The way YeChan and Yul interact with these people reveals their character and backstory.  

Trials and Errors / Minor Victories Yul has to wrap his head around this quaint town, which is so different from Seoul. The tiny supermarket, the overly friendly locals, the way YeChan is a part of this. Yul finally tries the rice drink and realises he likes it (this act is symbolic of his gradual acceptance of the town and embracing this new adventure he’s on). YeChan helps out with some orphans, teaching them to strawberry pick, and Yul is terrible at it.  He’s also terrible with communicating with the kids, in particular one girl who’s been ghosted by her father. Yul refuses to take his own father’s calls and we find out why later. When Yul and the girl have an accident, YeChan rescues them and now he has to take care of an incapacitated Yul in an arm cast.  

Doing Bonding Stuff Together Strawberry picking, going shopping, having a water fight, driving and talking. Generally looking after each other. YeChan bakes a cake for Yul but the dog eats it. We see Yul giving YeChan preliminary ‘this guy is sweet and interesting’ looks.

When Yul is in hospital, YeChan sleeps on the floor next to him. They bond over daily interactions when they return home and YeChan says he will take care of Yul. Yul appears to be loosening up and smiling more. Yul doesn’t sleep well, so YeChan buys a light to help him, and they sleep side by side on the floor.

YeChan finally talks to the town elder about catching feels for Yul and the way he reacts when Yul says he’s seeing someone is confirmation of those feelings.  YeChan is mega depressed Yul has confirmed he’s taken, but still wants to be in Yul’s presence because that boy has FALLEN HARD.  We find out why Yul hates his father, why he gave up music and why the ex is an ex (at this stage, YeChan has no clue).

More Obstacles Yul’s vile ex turns up and does that smarmy, passive-aggressive ‘I know stuff about Yul, we have a past and a connection, you’re just a randomer’ and YeChan knows he a) cannot compete with this shiny, smooth urban guy and b) won’t confess his feelings because that would just ruin everything and YeChan is not a selfish guy.  And so, YeChan steps out of the picture. Ex stays at Yul’s house, goes with him to get his cast removed.  We find out more of Yul’s past: the vile ex cheated on him, pursued music, and is now someone in the industry.

Point of No Return YeChan visits Yul the next day with a cute keyboard he bought BECAUSE THE MAN IS SO FRICKING SWEET but the vile ex is all ‘you don’t know him AT ALL it will only cause him pain if you give this to him.”  Yul senses something’s wrong, you can see how gentle he is with YeChan (and so can vile ex) but YeChan eventually leaves.  Next day Yul says to the ex, “we need to talk,” but the ex is “come back to Seoul with me.” YeChan suddenly appears and is all “NOOOOO.”  Yul tells vile ex a few home truths (vile ex is all ‘what about meeeee??? How do you think I felt when you gave up music??’ and SIR take your pity party and LEAVE), says they will not get back together, that he should go home to Seoul.  YeChan is relieved.  Yul doesn’t know it yet, but he’s emotionally invested in this relationship now.

————> STORY MIDPOINT <———————

Removing the Armour / Being Vulnerable Yul still can’t sleep, so YeChan takes him apple picking - physical labour to tire him out.  We now see Yul clearly getting the heart eyes for YeChan.  They make wine with the town elder, get drunk and eat together. YeChan has a sexy dream about Yul and is totally embarrassed. Now avoids him.

Oh, Shit Moment Finally, Yul asks what’s wrong and YeChan confesses he likes him.  Yul is shocked, says he’s sorry, and he doesn’t have the energy to think about someone right now.  “Let’s pretend nothing happened,” Yul says. At this point, the answer to the Story Question appears to be no.  No happy ending for YeChan and Yul???

ACT 3 - The New Improved World

The Journey Back This happens quickly, in ep7. Yul wants to forget YeChan’s confession, YeChan is WTF NO I SAID WHAT I SAID. Yul says YeChan is a younger brother to him, then pulls the “you’re young, you don’t know how you’re feeling” and tries to backtrack (aka the I Wanna Go Back To My Ordinary World, This is Too MUCH EMOTION CANNOT DEAL) and good on YeChan for getting angry and WTF you DID NOT just say that to me. Now he’s all “I will prove it to you, I will make your heart race every time you look at me.” (!).

Reflection/Revelation/More Feels YeChan is on a mission now, trying to find out how to make ones heart race. He takes Yul to the strawberry farm. Panics when he thinks Yul has run away from him (he just went to meet a friend). YeChan takes Yul to see a piano hidden in a shed and Yul realises it’s his from childhood, and his grandfather has been looking after it. YeChan tells Yul if he really loves music, then he should pursue it. YeChan mirrors the words that Yul said to him in Act 1 (“I think it’s cool to pursue something you like doing.”)  Yul finally reveals that he stopped music because of his father. YeChan gives Yul a cute bracelet to show him how much he likes him.

One Last Challenge Yul’s father turns up and tells him to go back to law school, attempts to smack him about when he refuses. Yul glances at the bracelet YeChan gave him and then says that from now on, not to contact him, stop interfering in his life. He will be doing music now. Has a friend send him his music equipment.

More Feels/Romance Development We are now seeing Yul slowly falling in love with YeChan through his selfless acts - making sure Yul sleeps and eats and looks after himself, enjoying his composition, then telling him to go to Seoul to pursue his music. Of course YeChan will be sad but he’s so Team Yul that it makes my heart ache.  Yul gives YeChan a matching bracelet… “are we a couple???” After an outing, Yul gets all massive heart eyes and EMOTIONS and drags YeChan in for a passionate kiss.

(Yul’s omg fuuuuuck I love you! moment)

(KISSING! Also, look at Yul‘s hand on YeChan’s neck AHHHHH) 

Resolution / Final AHHHHH happy moment After a month of FaceTiming and YeChan being sad because he misses his bf, Yul finally returns. “I’m home,” he says.  Massive hugging, lots of happy YeChan.

[poomphuripan]

While waiting for MSI, I did look up and watched Lovely Writer. Up ATE the hell out of Ming OMGGGG. I did not realize how different it is until I watch his previous series. Damn that's 2 different men and I can't believe people still doubt his acting skill. I'm amazed

hi nonnie ಥ⁠‿⁠ಥ

omg you took up Lovely Writer ༎ຶ⁠‿⁠༎ຶ

I will always be grateful to LW because it is THE series that catapulted my full obsession with Up Poompat. Like even back then, I was always not a big fan of branded pairing, but when LW came out and made those sharp commentaries on BL industry and shipping, I was hollering every episodes.

but most of Up's fans/followers being from Lovely Writer era also posed a challenge to him being casted in My Stand-In because most fans were already used to seeing him as the cute grumpy writer in LW (especially fans who are fixated on Up playing uke roles), so a lot of people had doubts about him being able to pull off the arrogant cold beauty seme that is Yan Ming Xiu.

I personally think he's proven himself enough having played Put aka lite Ming in Step By Step. But I also get not everyone can be open-minded about an actor completely transforming and doing a 180 for a character.

I'm so glad that the series characterization of YMX into Ming has fitted Up perfectly because I think Up can pull off the obnoxious yet sometimes cute roles very well.

I'm also really proud that with only 5 episodes into the series, Up has generally been accepted by cfans/fans in the My Stand-In weibo supertopic even though there were so much uproar against this casting decision when it was initially announced. The producer Yuan and director Pepzi seem to be really proud of being able to cast Up as Ming (i bet @thasorns can attest to this when P'Yuan spoke about this as well at the IFYLITA screening in Berlin) after 9 months of looking for the right Ming and Joe.

But I think there are still a few similarities between Ming and Gene, like the hot temperament and jealousy ୧⁠(⁠＾⁠ ⁠〰⁠ ⁠＾⁠)⁠୨ but in very different fonts 🤣

all in all, yes yes yes. i absolutely agree. Up is killing it as Ming and i wouldn't have asked for any other actor to play ming. perhaps if the series had gone with trying to make Up play a character exactly like Novel!Yan Ming Xiu, i think it wouldn't have been as convincing tbh (⁠*⁠˘⁠︶⁠˘⁠*⁠)⁠.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡

but like i'm also up poompat defender so you can probably tell, my opinions are very biased <⁠(⁠￣⁠︶⁠￣⁠)⁠>

[helluvatired]

you know what? i'm about to say it

i really like radioapple, but for a month now, the fanart of the characters' characterization is so far from canon???

almost all fanart looks like this image, with lucifer being the uke and alastor being the seme

and i'm not even talking about the sexual thing, but btw i always found it ridiculous to assume just because someone acts some way (and generally the "way" is just being able to open up and talk about feelings, height, etc.) defines whether they likes penetration or not (also top doesn't equals dom and vice versa)

some people are treating it as if lucifer is helpless submissive and alastor is totally dominant and so much stronger than lucifer

i'm missing the dynamics of canon. the enemies to lovers part

the part where alastor knows that he is much weaker than lucifer (in all senses) and this is at least one of the reasons he doesn't like lucifer and that's why he tries to manipulate charlie into pretending that he wants to be like a father figure for her so get to lucifer's nerves and have a minimum of control?

the part where lucifer doesn't do anything to hurt him because he knows that charlie considers alastor as a friend and well, hurting your daughter's friend won't help in the recognition of both (and alastor takes advantage of that)

or the two of them mutually being two grumpy and pity to each other, the rivalry, or both of them being goofy or they acting like the two old men they are (cmon, lucifer doesn't even like watching tv)

and hell, lucifer didn't even know who alastor was and never cared about it, he simply doesn't gives a shit! and now that lucifer and charlie's bond is strong + lucifer will one day or another find out about the deal with alastor, most likely all the manipulation in ep 5 has already fallen apart

anyway, that's my little rant so far. i still like the ship (and mainly for those reasons i mentioned above) but recently i feel the fanarts are so out of character (that i'm almost about to put the tag on the blocklist because all the ooc is getting really annoying for me)

is anyone else feeling what i said? maybe it could just be the algorithm that hates me only recommending me things that i don't like too, who knows ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

if anyone managed to read until the end, thank you for reading!

[terminaltimeline]

If I see another goddamn LukeJamie thing where Luke is portrayed as the stoic grumpy yet caring seme prince being bothered by silly prankster uke Jamie I'm going to start committing murder and arson

When will shippers stop trying to fit characters into narrow lil cliche personality trait boxes just so it makes sense for them to be acting out these insipid little tropey scenarios, I am so close to turning into a shitty gatekeeper that complains about tourists I swear to god

[fandoms-of-erlik]

Things in fanfics that drive me up the wall (incomplete) list:

- Character getting stabbed/shot and sleeping off the injury with minimal to zero repercussions

- Piss poor understanding of mental health (Character is depressed. So they cut themselves!! Their apartment is in pristine condition though!)

- Overuse of random (insert language) words to indicate a character's ethnicity (He closed the puerta and he exited the casa)

- oRbS

- Abusing racial stereotypes (for black characters the sapphire/mammy caricatures mostly or Asian character is always eating kimchi/noodles/miso soup or Slavic character is an alcoholic)

- This character is an irredeemable asshole because they're a bit grumpy in the canon & This character is a cinnamon roll crybaby because they are a kind person in the canon

- Ignoring mistreatment/abuse from the character solely to thirst over them

- No paragraph breaks

- Both characters are over 18!!! (Cool. It doesn't change the fact the characters you aged up were 7 and 6 respectively. Why do you wanna see them fuck) (or both characters are 17, are you under the impression teenagers dont fuck?)

- Not tagged properly (Tags: fluff, mental health issues, hurt-comfort. Fic: Violently graphic description of a suicide attempt followed by you're gonna be ok as comfort)

- Feminine character is shallow & masculine character is violent despite canon saying otherwise

- 'A fujoshi wrote this' vocabulary (usage of uke-seme, bottom is a literal baby, Daddy Issues™)

- Honorary mention of the mafia doing paperwork

[caterpillarbarry]

Literary masterpiece

BJ Alex

Tropes: Asshole-character development arc, chasing arc, grumpy-sunshine, unrequited love

When a timid and innocent university student accidentally uncovers the true identity of his favourite gay cam boy, they end up entering into a sex-partner relationship - but will things develop into something more? The main reason I love BJ Alex is because it is very well-written. The story is definitely more character-driven and the characters were executed to perfection. These characters initially appear to follow the typical tropes (timid and innocent uke with an asshole seme) but you’ll realise very early on that there is a lot more depth and layers to them. The author dedicates a lot of time and effort to develop their multi-faceted personalities, which makes them interesting and endearing. Despite the rocky start between the characters, their chemistry was palpable right off the bat and you'll be completely invested in their growth throughout the story. The story-telling itself was well-paced with an excellent build-up to the climax, a good chasing arc and a satisfying ending. There was also a focus on world-building with great side characters and even more intriguing storylines. I have read this manhwa at least 4 times now and it has held up every single time. Overall, to me, it is definitely the best of its genre, hence earning its spot on this list.

This short review really doesn't do the story much justice. Read here if you want my full unprompted TED Talk on why BJ Alex is one of my most favourite manhwas of all time.

[tsukkishinata]

I don’t have to explain this to anybody but I guess I just personally want to see for myself if I can put into words why I was never into Kage////Hina. I mean I feel like kghn isn’t even as popular as it could be now a days (whether because manga readers gravitate towards the new Hinata ships or the big hq ship is Iwa//////Oi and etc)

Anyway, for me, I really love great partnership and power couples but something about them felt off from what I look for in ship dynamics

I do admit that they do look good, dark hair tall Kags and small sunshine Hinata and together they make the karasuno colors. Match made in garbage dump (IM REFERENCING CROWS I DONT MEAN THEY ARE TRASH SHIP)

Maybe it’s because Kageyama isn’t the grumpy broody seme to Hinata’s bright energy as I expected. Like yeah he’s still grumpy and all but he’s also an idiot and I love him for it. Also as they grow together, Hinata isn’t really scared of him anymore. (Of course Hina just is the type to make jabs and then go on defense when they retaliate) I think even though season 1 was fun, I didn’t love the characters until season 2, when Hinata finally starts wanting to learn to stand on his own.

The way the monster duo were framed in season 1 was never really a bad thing, how Kags was the Oni and Hina was the weapon, they always framed it as A Powerful Duo. I guess maybe that wasn’t the dynamic I was into because I much rather liked Hinata fighting back and wanting to stand on his own. In hindsight it kind of feels like he’s breaking away from a controlling relationship, which sounds horrible for Kags but that’s kinda what it looks like.

I also kind of equate them to the hot headed stubborn type of ships (Hiji////Gin) where they are different in personality but are also super similar. Not exactly the right analogy, but since the monster duo both love ball and playing, they vibe that way but personality wise they are opposites.

Also getting more into the series, I vibe more with Kags being in the AroAce spectrum. While yes do I ship KageGuchi, I still prefer AroAce Kags. I guess it also just feels like I can’t see Hinata taking care of Kags the same way I would with any other Kags ship. (Not in a sexual way) Taking care in a way where he’s looking out for him? can’t really explain but since Hinata and Kags are always Ball On the Brain 24/7, they both need someone who are a more level headed and know when to stop.

I mean I wasn’t into TskHn from s1 either even though the sunmoon dynamics have been there from the start. Perhaps I just didn’t vibe with the charas as much until later. Anyway, season 2 training camp is peak, growth for Hinata and Tsuki backstory and everyone else of course.

[zo1nkss]

Ed x Stede adopting a pet together?

Anon u just made my whole day. I'm about to use my favorite fucking trope on Ed rn. I'm winning at life.

A Whisker Away

It's not that Ed was against the idea of getting a pet. He didn't dislike animals. But there were a lot of factors that went into having a pet on a moving vescel in the middle of the ocean.

Questions like how was it going to get enough exercise for an animal? Even the smallest of beasts deserved the freedom to roam as far as it wanted. And what if it couldn't swim or didn't like water? What if it hates boats, or get s sea sick a lot? Who's going to be responsible and clean up after it when it shits on the poop deck? ["No, Stede, that's not why it's called a poop deck."]

He also wasn't a huge fan of things that constantly demanded his attention. Sure he and Izzy had managed to get along for awhile, but that was before he made his choice of alliances and respect and loyalty very clear. But Izzy was a person who could talk and tell him what he wanted. Ed was terrible at guessing games. It's why his little attempt at mimicking the high life had gone so terribly. And animals needed so many things he wasn't privvy to.

But somehow, Stede had managed to convine him. The bastard sure had a way with words(and hands, and mouths, and tongues-) and knew just what to say to get Ed to cave.

"Oh, don't be so grumpy." Stede said from across the rom, where he lounged across their shared bed entertaining the small fuzzy creature. "He's so cute. How can you be mad at a face like this?" Ed glanced over with an indignant huff and rolled his eyes. Stede was looking at him in gleeful expectation, the tiny kitten hanging from his grasp and crying out softly as it looked across the room at Ed. Could it even see him, he wondered. BUt it wasn't the cat that had his chest clenching and heart softening. Oh, he was cute alright - but Stede was so completely enamored by the small thing that Ed couldn't help but thaw a little under his gaze. "Whatever," he dismissed, turning away if only to escape the pull of those eyes.

"Oh, just give him a chance darling." Stede's voice came from beside him then, and something cold and fuzzy pressed into Ed's cheek followed by the muffled cry of the kitten. "He's so sweet, you'll really love him. I'm sure of it." A loud crash sounded from up top and Stede cursed before placing the cat in Ed's lap and running off th make sure everything was okay, a half-frantic "Watch the cat!" tossed over his shoulder as the door closed behind him.

Ed, arms lifted and nose pinched in distaste as he looked down at the small inoffensive creature, sighed as it cried pathetically up at him. "Oh, give it a rest, will ya?" he said back, knowing it wouldn't understand a word he said. "I don't hate you, okay? I just don't know what I'm doing." It cried again and he reluctantly stroked it's head with his hand. The kitten semed to like that, so he rolled his eyes and let it have the attention it wanted.

And it was fine. You know. Nothing special. normal. Boring, even. Nothing good or bad, just-

"Hey, what's that you're doing?" Was it growling, or purring? The sound got louder and louder, until he could feel it through the hand stroking the cats head. "Oh-" it rubbed against his hand and Ed felt himself softening even more than before. The damned thing really was sweet, Stede wasn't lying. "Alright, I s'pose this isn't so bad."

The cat got comfrtable in his lap and Ed knew he was doomed. Stede would never let him hear the end of it. He'd put up such a fit about getting the cat and sulked all the way back to the ship. But it's adorable face and mellow demeanor had him absolutely endeared now, and Stede was going to be so fucking smug about it.

~

"You sure everything's alright, Roach?" Stede asked, lingering near the doorway.

"Yeah, man! Everything's great, it was just the pans, and you helped clean those up." With a shrug, Roach waved him off and Stede made his way back to the captain's quarters.

"Alright, I'm sorry for leaving you alone with the cat but Roach dropped some pots while cooking everyone dinner, and-" Stede stopped in his tracks when he took in the sight before him. Ed was sprawled out on their bed, arms and legs starfished and taking up the whole thing, with the kittin curled up and sleeing in the crook of his neck. The man himself was snoring loudly, but the cat didn't seem to mind. With a triumphant smirk, Stede reached over and pet the kitten but was rudely interrupted when Ed groaned and swatted his hand away, then rolled over and covered himself and the cat in blankets.

"Don't fuckin' make my cat up, mate." He said, curling up on his side and nuzzling what Ed presumed was the sleeping cat.

"Your cat?" Stede asked, crossing his arms over his chest. "Excuse me, Captain, but I spent three weeks convincing you to let me bring that cat home and I will not be undermined on my own ship-"

"-our ship-"

"-like-" Stede cut off after he heard Ed's interjection, mouth agape but eyes alight with amusement. "Oh, suddenly it's our ship."

Ed hummed in response, a prideful sound in the back of his throat. "Our ship, my cat." he declared. "Don't worry, love, you'll get the hang of it."

"Oh, I'm going to get something, I'll tell you that much!" Stede said before tackling him quite clumsily. Ed simply let out a short laugh and rolled to keep the cat away from him, but in the comotion the only managed to wake the sleeping kitten and they both halted when it let out a grumbly little meow of disapproval.

"I think we just got scolded by a kitten." Ed commented, looking over at the annoyed cat in surprise.

"I would say we most certinly did." Stede agreed, brows raised as they both stared over at the glaring creature. "What do you say, truce?"

Ed looked over at the hand offered to him and considered shaking it. But at the last second, he snatched the kitten and ran off out of the room. "Edward!" Stede called as he took off running after him.

[heretherebedork]

Aii and San are a couple the definitely fascinate me. They're grumpy/sunshine with a younger, pushy seme and an older, tsundere uke but they're also already talking about feelings and looking at different goals and have already acknowledged that they have feelings for each other and don't want to mess around.

San has been clear from moment one that he's interested and serious and Aii has asked him, talked to him and listened very well. They have shockingly good and open communication despite their situation.

And they're going to be very interesting together, especially with Aii looking for a scholarship to another country and San just looking to be with him and to take care of him.

[dabiboy]

How about a soft, holiday related drabble?👀 I was thinking the scenario could be, Dabi's s/o really wants to go see the Christmas light displays. Dabi has never really caring to celebrate such holidays, since he finds them trivial, but he gives into his s/o's wishes because he loves them. They go out together as a date night, hand in hand, passing by the Christmas lights display. While dabi is unimpressed/indifferent by the lights display, he looks over at his s/o, who seems to really be enjoying themselves. Which he finds super cute and seeing them happy with the twinkling lights in their eyes just warms his heart. Wjzjsjzk ahhh all I can think about is that scene from the movie Tangled where Flynn is looking at Rapunzel while she is admiring lanterns. Gahhh, I hope this doesn't sound jumbled or weird to request. Sorry if my English is bad, I'm using a translator TwT Hope you're doing well, I love your work💕

First off, I'm so sorry this one took me so loooong 😭 It's been hard to defeat the block I'm going through, but I just finished this one and I hope you like it!

Blue lights

The yellow lights filled the place, almost as if they were trying to warm up the cold night. It was weird, to be walking hand in hand with a villain through a park, however no one semeed to notice. Maybe it was because it was pretty late, or maybe because he was wearing a hoodie that helped covering the scars on his face. Or maybe, people were to deep into their own thoughts as to notice some random couple walking.

Dabi's hand felt warm agasint yours, and his staples were not cold anymore, it was the first time someone was holding his hand and he was lowkey enjoying it.

A sided smile appeared on his face when he looked at you. You couldn't even notice him, because you were to busy looking at the lights displays, smiling wide at the pretty image that they offered.

"You look like a fuckin five years old" Dabi mocked and let out a low chuckle.

"And you look like a grumpy old man, all serious and indiferent. They are pretty! I feel happy while watching them, don't you?" You asked, this time turning your face towards him.

"They're just lights, doll." You make me happy, he wanted to say. "It's not a big deal" Dabi shrugged his shoulders.

"It's not a big deal" you tried to imitate him with an awful low voice, making him laugh again. "Enjoy a little!"

"I am enjoying it. Don't let my ugly face tell you otherwise" and with that statement, you stopped right in your tracks.

"You're not ugly, Dabi" Now you were facing him, slowly caressing his cheek. "But if you smiled more often you'd look prettier" you laughed after pressing a short kiss on his lips.

He lifted an eyebrow, looking down at you with a bored expression just to replace it with a huff. Dabi was about to say something back when the color of the lights changed. Now they were blue. Was it a coincidece? It looked like one, to be honest. He looked at you, when you turn around to get a better view of the lights, smiling big and with a surprised expression at the beautiful color. And he was right, you were looking like an excited five year old. And he loved it, the way you could felt happy over simple things, the way your smile somehow made his heart warm, and then... A smile was on his face.

"Dabi look! They're blue like your-" you interrupted yourself. "You're smiling" the words came out almost in a whisper, making him fall to earth again.

"What? No, I'm not" he furrowed his eyebrows as he kept walking.

"Yes you were!" You laughed and followed him, holding his hand one more time. "What made you smile? Was it the lights? The color?" you asked, but his answer was inmediate almost interrupting you.

"You"

[absolutebl]

Wading back into the BL world after several months away, and I would like to politely request recommendations. I'm looking for completed BL shows that are as good as Bad Buddy, have a D/s element, are supernatural, and/or are about politics like Not Me. Any or all of these combined would be lovely. I prefer Thai, but any country is fine.

You're the best!

Hi sweetie! Welcome back.

Recently completed BL, as good as Bad Buddy (I rated that a 9/10) with D/s elements, supernatural (PNR), and/or politics.

Okay so I sorted the spreadsheet of doom by year (we are in October 2024) and then ranking, and here is what I got:

Century of Love

Thai Gaga

fated mates, PNR, historical element, grumpy/sunshine, D/s hinted at but not fully executed

This is a very pretty drama about a young man who fell in love with a nice girl 100 years ago, and when she died in his arms, he was cursed to live until he could meet her reborn self. Only this time around, she’s reborn into the body of a man. Or is she? I love it when Thailand gets all up in its own historical business and reincarnation and shizz. I like this pair (it’s not DaouOffroad’s fault I didn’t enjoy their first series.) Daou’s wushu is snazzy and we got a unique meet cute. (Erm… Remeet cute? Meet cute 2.0?)

Ultimately, this is I Feel You Linger in the Air + First Love Again, rather than (as one might expect) Until We Meet Again or The Director Who Buys Me Dinner. The leads turned in great performances, although Daou outclassed everybody else on that screen. It’s a good story and a great BL and I can’t find any major faults with it beyond a certain level of camp that is sadly endemic to lakorns. Also I’m going to give it credit as the kind of BL that one could safely recommend to lovers of melodrama and historical romance, without having to qualify it as “good for a BL.”

It was, to put it succinctly, a VERY ENJOYABLE show.

Cherry Magic (Thai remake)

Thai grey

paranormal, office romance, no D/s

A soft charming warm hug of a show about crushes and mind reading and self worth that really worked for me. With no-fuss execution from a consummate team (at GMMTV) and an OG lead pair (proving why they remain eternal and deserve to grow up). Look, here’s the thing,

Cherry Magic is a great Thai BL in its own right - not comparing it to any other iteration. But even when I do compare (and I've seen all the Cherries and read the manga) it stands strong. I, personally, like the Thai BL slightly better than the Japanese live action yaoi, but I think that’s because I just really enjoy Thai BL's style and I LOVE TayNew.

Also all the kissing was both present and better in this version. As it should be from Thailand.

Cosmetic Playlover

Japan Gaga

obsession, office, tsundere/sunshine , claiming, ownership D/s but nothing more than that

I loved this little show. It was a classic office BL about the older workaholic who loves his job and the younger upstart who unexpectedly loves his boss. It’s a hyung romance where everybody is extremely earnest and sweet and pretty about everything. Except our seme, who is slightly unhinged and a little obsessed in all the ways one likes best from Japan. Plus the kisses were good! I can’t ask for anything more, utterly charming unexpected gem of a show. What a great time!

Love For Love's Sake

Korea iQIYI

isekai, paranormal, high school setting, very soft, sunshine/tsundere, it's Korean so no D/s (the only one that might satisfy from them recently is bully romance Jazz for Two)

trigger suicide

Isekai-based KBL is about a man who must win a game by convincing a reserved teen outcast to fall in love with him. Of course, that teen represents himself and his own unhappiness. Like many queer narratives, this show is actually about self worth, trust, and found family, and it is VERY on the nose. But I don’t expect subtlety from my BL and I enjoyed it's truly lovely redemption arc and earnest performances.

I personally found the narrative a touch disjointed with overworked filming angles and poorer than average captions, but the consistency of tone, script, and immersion is beyond the norm for BL. You will drown in this show and like it that way. The leads have fantastic chemistry and it's ultimately highly rewatchable and utterly charming, which counts for a lot.

The Sign

Thai YouTube

paranormal, soulmates, sunshine/tsundere, high heat, police procedural, every other trope, there's even some elements of D/s in there because it has...... well, everything in it

This show is literally everything (except straight) all at once. It's BL, queer, band of brothers, romcom, erotica, PNR, fated mates, police procedural, fantasy, mystery, suspense, and slasher. It’s the king of genre mash-up chaos. Sure, it's madness but there is genius in it.

Was it a crazy unhinged mess +1 roll for damage? Yes. Yes it was.

Did it manage to hold all those tangled threads together? No it did not.

Was it also a charming, sexy, engaging, non-stop piece of entertainment? Sure thing.

I think this show is basically my KinnPorsche, and frankly I’ve been chasing that dragon naga since KP aired. Is it perfect? No. But it was balls to the wall FUN. Emphasis on balls.

I rated it a 9/10 in 2024 but doesn't contain any of your other requested criteria

Sugar Dog Life

The Rebound

Unknown

Wandee Goodday

We Are

Sorry the D/s has been very light on the ground this year. I mean there has been some kinky stuff, but nothing even approaching BB in terms of quality. I mean Deep Night was about sex work and had a poly romance but was it...... good? Not really.

I rated it an 8/10 but at least it has kink

My Stand-in

Meet You At the Blossom

Jazz for Two

Deep Night

[notesfromasmallworld]

The grumpy morning bird catches the photographer It is not the first time a target for early morning photography has given me that look. Not so often as a bird with a sharp beak, though. The great white egret (Ardea alba) is the common egret, spread out across the Americas up to Canada and all over Africa south of Sahara, south of Europe and parts of Asia. It is a bit smaller than the great blue white heron, and it also differs in having a shorter beak and black feets rhan the white heron. These egret average a meter long, a kilo heavy and having a wingspan of up to 170 centimeters. It builds it nests in colonies in trees near water. Like this one near the beach. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_egret #great #white #egret #Ardea #alba #heron #cameroon #roadtrip #2015CE #birdlife #villagelife #morning #bird #catch #grumpy #portrait #Nikon #Nikkor #NikonD800 #300mm #f4 #pfvr #2015CE #Kamerun #cameroon #africa #birdphotography #animalphotography #limbe (ved Seme New Beach) https://www.instagram.com/p/zmpdUVD-rk/?utm_medium=tumblr

[takanos-love-butt]

Semes and their Ukes <3 <3 <3 

Artist:  Yukari Koume

((Why am I laughing hysterically at Yokozawa being an uke? XDDDD))

[addicticn]

“you should lay down.”

“ I’m perf’ctly fine! You always worry so fuck’n much, like, oh, Angel lay down, Angel rest, Angel ya deserve sa much more, y’re so much more, as if that wasn’t a f’ckin’ lie! “ Angel dust didn’t like Charlie telling him to lay down, ever, simply because her worry and concern only semed like pity to him. It only felt like pity when she looked at him with those motherly eyes, that reminded him so much of Mollys eyes. He hated their resemblance in personality and brightness.

The spider kicks against the ground, squinting his eyes down at Charlie.

“ I don’t need tha fuckin’ rest. “ He adds onto his temper tantrum in a grumpy whisper, but despite refusing her words, he turns on his heels, sporting back up the stairs, and when he reaches his room, it’s heard through half the building, how he smashed the door behind him. “ Stupid fuckin’ shit. “

Shaky fingers wander into a pocket, a cig of PCP finding its way between them, and it doesn’t take long for him to light it, lean against his door and slide down, hiding his face in his knees, kinda just taking in the smell of the drug - while he could feel his eyes water.

Being here was so fucking stupid.

[thelonecoyote]

Things that make the Bastard Happy

(written for my brother)

John was in one of his moods, the kind of moods people could feel before even seeing it etched upon his face. He was drunk as usual and feeling sorry for himself as to being lonely as it was his own choice in the end considering what happened if he didn’t heed his own advice about the life he lived...<br>

There was suddenly a knock at his door, and he knew only two or maybe three people knew where he was staying and he wasn’t in a mood for any of them “who the hell is it? I paid my damn rent for the month...” he growled as he really hadn’t as he used his old tricks to make it appear as he had. It was then he heard that sickeningly cheerful voice from behind the door of Gary Green “Oh come on John, you can’t be this grumpy all the time. I brought you something. Well I brought your favourite whiskey and a few snacks...I was thinking a game of D and D always seemed to cheer you up....at least I thought so...but I could be...” it was then the door seemed to open and allow Gary inside “wrong..” and slowly he stepped in to see John sprawled out on the couch and disheveled “I looked for you on the Waverider and Mick said you just left..”  <br>

“Mick and I are a very sore conversation to start, he is a horses arse...” he breathed and took another drink as Gary inched closer and carefully placed what he had down on the table nearby “I would offer to do what we did last time, but I am still sore from that bite...” Gary semed to murmur as John’s brow lifted slightly  to see him rubbing near where his nipple used to be  <br>

 “Come here, Luv. Let me see what I can do about it. I’m sure a bit of magic will fix you right up” he spoke in a tone that was drunk but seemed he actually might just give two shits about Gary even as he was. Gary however was soaring as his eyes seemed to just change hearing the brooding man call him Luv “I...I don’t think there is much to do but...uh heal” he spoke as he slowly made his way towards John and sat on the couch beside him finally. <br>

John slowly sat up with a grunt and placed his bottle down on the table and moved to turn to Gary and soon moved to get his tie out of the way and soon opened his shirt “Let me be the judge of that...” he spoke as he saw the bandages as he assumed Gary didn't want to bleed onto his crisp white shirt and gently he pulled them away as he took a look at the wound.  Gently his fingers touched around it and placed a bit of magic into him to desensitize the area so he could heal properly “I...I don;t know what you did, but the pain is gone” he spoke as he watched John seem to be mesmerized by the wound on him “Do...you think you can repair me? or is this a battle wound now?” he asked as John’s eyes seemed to meet his own as he looked up and made him shiver with something between fear and delight. <br>

“Gary? It's a reminder now. A reminder that you sacrificed yourself for the team and lived through it. Plus, I find it pretty attractive...” John spoke with a seemingly wide grin on his face “Real...Really?” Gary seemed to swallow hard as it seemed he brought John out of his brooding for now. John started to nod and slowly pulled away as he seemed to have healed the bite just enough that remained as it was but didn’t bleed anymore <br>

It was then John grabbed the bag that Gary brought him and started to get up “Come now Luv, One game and if you win perhaps I’ll show you just how attractive that bite makes you...” John spoke with such a turned on smile as a wink soon followed as he started to disappear and Gary sat there for a moment wondering exactly what he did and then realized he didn't care...he seemed to make a man like Constantine happier.  Throwing off his tie and leaving it on the couch, he half buttoned his shirt back up and followed John to the bedroom to play a game of D and D and who-knew-what-else the night brought.... 

[ladymdc]

OC Interview

I was tagged by a several AMAZING people. Like seriously guys, why do you like me?: @star--nymph​, @laraslandlockedblues​, @kawakaeguri​, @briarfox13​ & because @kimpossibility​ specifically mentioned Evelyn in WitD, that’s the AU she’ll be responding in bc kim’s comments on that fic give me life. LIFE I TELL YOU!

*happy cries*

((To prevent any potential spoilers, she’ll be answering from the point I’m at in the fic.))

1. What is your name?

“Evelyn.”

2. What is your real name?

“Evelyn...” she repeats slowly; the marginal quirk of her lip becoming almost amused.

3. Do you know why you were called that?

"I do, it’s a very lovely story.”

4. Are you single or taken?

She shrugs a shoulder. "Somewhere in between.”

5. Have any abilities or powers?

"I mean, that’s why we’re talking isn’t it?“ she asks as the mark in the palm of her hand begins to glow emerald green.

6. Stop being a Mary Sue

Evelyn raises her brow. “Please, tell me how you really feel.”

7. What’s your eye colour?

She leans forward and opens her eyes really big. “Does this help?”

8. How about your hair colour?

"Are you color blind? Like seriously, I’m not trying to be an asshole here.”

9. Have you any family members?

"Dante is all I have left,” she says, absently petting his dark gray fur.

10. Oh? What about pets?

“Nope.”

11. That’s cool I guess, now tell me about something you don’t like.

"Besides the obvious?” she asks wryly. “I hate sand. Bugs. Cucumbers. Gin.”

12. Do you have any hobbies/activities you like doing?  

“I like crossword puzzles; they are the only good thing you can find in the papers nowadays. Baking. Reading. I miss research just for the sake of research, but the stuff I’m working on is still a good distraction. Look, I’ve almost got it,” she says brightly as a foot-long blade apparates in her hand. “Just a little smaller and it’ll be perfect.”

13. Ever hurt anyone before?

"I have.”

14. Ever… killed anyone before?

She dismisses the spell with a shrug. “No one that didn’t deserve it.”

15. What kind of animal are you?

"I’m not a shapeshifter. Unfortunately.”

16. Name your worst habits.

“I’m told I’m reckless, and overly sarcastic. Oh, and I pick at my fingernails.”

17. Do you look up to anyone at all?

"Leliana has taught me a lot over the years. If it weren’t for her, I’m not sure I’d still be here.”

18. Gay, straight, or bisexual?

Her brow furrows. “Bi-curious?”

19. Do you go to school?

"With all...” she waves her hand dismissively. “This going on? Maker, no. Maybe when it’s over I’ll be able to finish my thesis, but I’m not holding my breath.”

20. Do you ever want to marry and have kids one day?

"I think that’s a very nice... dream to have.”

21. Do you have any fanboys/fangirls?

"Doubtful.”

22. What are you most scared of?

“Spiders,” she says, shivering. “Blech.”

23. What do you usually wear?

Evelyn leans back in the chair and holds her arms out to the side so you can see. “Well, not this specific outfit every day, but you get the drift,” she says brushing off some unnoticeable piece of offense from her skirt.

24. Do you love someone?

A hint of color appears high on her cheeks. “Of course.”

25. When was the last time you wet yourself?

"Fucking Andraste, are you serious right now?”

26. Well, it’s not over yet!

"Wonderful...”

27. What class are you? (High class, middle class, low class)

"You know as well as I do the Trevelyans are nobility.”

28. How many friends do you have?

"Plenty.”

29. What are your thoughts on pie?

"Depends on the kind of pie.”

30. Favourite drink?

"I like to think of myself as a whiskey connoisseur. You can add that to the hobbies part too.”

31. What’s your favourite place?

"I miss the sea, and the rain.”

32. Are you interested in someone?

"I am.”

33. What’s your bra cup size and/or how big is your willy?

She cups her breasts, gives them a measuring shake. “A good handful I’d say, and I don’t have a dick - in case you’re wondering.”

34. Would you rather swim in the lake or the ocean?

"I like the sea, but I’d rather swim in a lake.”

35. What’s your type?

"Apparently my type is tall and grumpy.”

36. Any fetishes?

One corner of her mouth lifts lazily. “I do have a thing for rope.”

37. Seme or uke? Top or Bottom? Dominant or Submissive?

"I like to switch things up.”

38. Camping or indoors?

“Indoors. Bugs... remember?”

39. Are you wanting the interview to end?

"It’s a change of pace at least.”

40. Now it’s over!

"Perfect. Tell Varric we’re even before you leave.”

I’ll tag: @wardenofmyheart​ @nurvorn​ @numphet​ @laurelsofhighever​ @thejeeperswife​ @underthedreadwolfsgaze​ @ellstersmash​ @solverne-02​ @windysuspirations​ & @nylahvellan​

As always, feel free to ignore me. ❤️