#i don't have as much interest in upcoming events so I'll have time

[starfall-spirit]

@shallyne is giving me ideas

[djevelbl]

Ok so I'm not having a good time trying to do catch-up bc I just do not like what I'm drawing. Idk if I've hit a wall with my art style, if I've caught the infamous Art Block™ or what in the fuck, but I might just not finish IMtober. Wouldn't be surprising, I don't think I've ever finished an inktober challenge in my life before, so

[hwaslayer]

wildfire (cs) | intro.

—spotify playlist | series masterlist

—summary: assistant professor in bioengineering, incredibly attractive, lonely and divorced; that’s how most people describe san. but despite the events that have happened in his life, san has a lot going for himself. he’s a successful, sought out professor due to his brilliant contributions to science at just an early age of 32. he worked hard to get where he was now; head deep into his research, his publications, building his lab and creating a name for himself. everything was good and smooth sailing— until it wasn’t. because when he meets you, a bioengineering grad student interested in rotating in his lab, he finds himself ready to risk all the blood, sweat and tears he put in throughout the years just to keep you close— his need for you spiraling out of control like a wildfire.

—pairing: asst. professor!choi san x grad student!f. reader

—genre: (18+ - minors dni) strangers to lovers, grad school au | fluff, angst, eventual smut

—word count: 2.0k

—warnings: nothing much; cussing, very general description of research topics/neuroscience experiments including mentions of mice research (no details)!, mentions of infidelity (not oc or san)

—a/n: ty for being patient with me <33 here's the lil intro to professor choi 🤪 i think i'll keep the same update schedule i've had (every other weekend) but ofc will let everyone know if i cant update for whatever reason!! enjoyyyy this rideeee 🖤

Clunk.

San throws his glasses onto his desk before leaning back in his chair, hands coming up behind his head for a stretch. He had been working on his progress report for one of his grants since this morning, and he was starting to feel the migraine come on.

"Fuck." He mutters, pinching at the bridge of his nose before he gets up to grab another cup of coffee from his Nespresso machine— popping in a pod with a level 9 intensity into the slot and pressing start. It's around dinner time, but quite frankly, San isn't too hungry. He'll eat something small. He's just tired, especially because of this progress report. But, it's due next week and he needs to finalize his class schedule for the upcoming quarter at the same time. He won't have as much time to get through the technicalities if he waits any longer.

He's pretty immune to the different intensities of coffee at this point; having eaten it for breakfast, lunch and dinner during his postdoc years. It won't do much for long, but it'll at least keep him going for the next couple of hours before he calls it a day and lays in bed. 

When his coffee is done, he pours some creamer into his mug and gives it a good stir before settling back into his office. His house is too big for one person, but he enjoys the stillness. The quiet. He used to hate it. He used to hate when every corner reminded him of his ex-wife. Now, he's gotten used to it. He's learned how to live alone, how to enjoy his peace. He lets out a small sigh, taking a sip of his hot coffee as he resumes to look at the computer screen to his side. Suddenly, his phone goes off and he's quick to shift his attention to it because it's slightly odd for this time of day. People don't normally call him unless he's settled on a phone call meeting ahead of time, and he doesn't remember booking any calls tonight.

"Hey." San picks up when he realizes it's Jongho. Okay, so he maybe he lied. He does take a few calls from close friends, most who are also professors at the same university. "What's up?"

"How's your T15 report going?"

"Long. It's terrible."

"Well." Jongho laughs. "Perks of being you, I guess." San rolls his eyes. 

"Yeah, thanks. Very enlightening."

"Anyways, I wanted to call really quickly. I figured you hadn't seen it yet, but wanted to put it on your radar. I looped you into an email for a possible collaboration. We're trying to meet this week if you're free. Might be good to see what it's worth, could get us more funding. Open more collaboration opportunities in the future." San presses the phone against his ear, holding it with his shoulder as he navigates to his inbox on his computer. He has a bunch of unread emails that he'll eventually respond to, paying a tad more attention to the pressing ones when he has a moment. He's not gonna lie, he does ignore a few if it's not of interest to him, or something he doesn't feel like he can contribute much to. He'll typically respond with a 'so sorry, no can do' if people get pushy and constantly follow up, but for the most part, he does his best to keep up and respond where it's warranted.

San sees the email Jongho is speaking of, but right underneath it, he sees another email from a student inquiring about rotating in his lab for the upcoming quarter. He's always interested when students reach out to rotate in his lab, but he can't accommodate all, especially when he doesn't feel like his research aligns with their goals. He usually takes 1 per quarter if it fits, otherwise, he doesn't have any at all. 

Out of curiosity, he clicks on the email since it has been awhile since anyone rotated in his lab. 

From: yn@atz.edu To: choisan@atz.edu Dear Professor Choi, I hope this email finds you well. My name is Y/N, and I'm currently a bioengineering grad student who is interested in rotating in your lab for the upcoming quarter. I have been thinking about diving deeper into computational analysis, mice behavior, 2-photon excitation and opto-stim work. I've spoken to your postdocs, Sunwoo and Belle, about their current projects and potentially collaborating since they seem to be touching up on all these aspects. I was hoping we can find a time to meet and chat a bit to see if it would be a good fit. The deadline to submit my rotation selections is coming up, so I'd like to make sure we meet beforehand. Let me know, happy to work with your schedule! Best, Y/N Y/L/N

The thing about San is that he's pretty good at picking up on a student's vibe through their emails. It's the tone, the professionalism, the way they write and carry themselves. He can tell when some people are a little more egotistical and ignorant, and he doesn't want people like that in his rather small, but mighty lab. His current grad students and postdocs all get along well, and they're bright people who are very passionate about their work and studies. He doesn't need people thinking they're above the others. In addition to that, he can also tell when students are just trying to get their name on a published paper doing work in his lab, or when they're just trying to wing their way through grad school. It's a shame, but he definitely has come across a few students in his inbox. They do exist.

You, though? He's intrigued. You seem bright. Genuinely passionate about the specific areas you're interested in diving into. Poised. He appreciates that. He quickly scans over your CV and the little blurb at the bottom that highlights the work you've done in your undergrad years and internships. Your work history. He sees that you've already dipped your toes in a few of the different areas you've mentioned. Worked with a few professors he knows. You've volunteered at a couple of places.

An all-rounder.

"Did you see it?" He almost forgets he's on the phone with Jongho.

"Mm, yeah. I'll respond in a bit, I think I can meet on Thursday. Sorry, I just got a little distracted. Saw another email about a potential rotation student."

"Gonna take one on this quarter?"

"Maybe. If it fits. She seems to be interested in a lot of the work we do. She knows Sunwoo and Belle."

"Oh, nice. That'll be cool."

"What about you? Taking on a rotation student?" Jongho is an assistant professor in the electrical engineering department, and he is often bombarded with inquiries himself. He usually always has a rotation student, and they almost always choose his lab to work in after their rotation program is up. San doesn't blame them— Jongho is brilliant, and his work creates a lot of different pathways for students to navigate and try. San's can be a hit or miss; it's quite niched, and students often find that it genuinely is tough to play around in his field.

"Yeah. Think so." 

"Alright. Thanks for giving me a heads up. I'll check my calendar and respond in a bit for sure." San eyes the email. "It does sound like a good collaboration."

"Figured you'd say that. Thanks, my guy! Take it easy and good luck on your progress report."

"Appreciate it." San gives off a toothless smile even though Jongho can't see him. He slides his phone off to the side and checks his calendar, upholding his promise to Jongho about responding to the email ASAP. He keeps his email short, letting the group know he can make the meeting at the desired time on Thursday to talk about the potential collaboration across labs.

Then, he pulls up your email and checks his calendar once more.

From: choisan@atz.edu To: y/n@atz.edu Hi Y/N, Thanks for your email - for sure! I think there's a lot of possibilities we could visit, especially with Belle and/or Sunwoo's projects. Can you pop into my office on Tuesday morning? 10am good? We can chat then. — San

"Oh shit." You slow your chewing when you see the email notification pop up on your screen during dinner.

"What?" Felix asks, turning his attention towards you and causing Jiung and Eunchae to do the same.

"Professor Choi answered my email."

"That was quick." Jiung takes forkful of food into his mouth.

"Professor Choi as in San or Jongho? Cause they're both hotties." Eunchae swoons and twirls her hair, making Felix scrunch his nose.

"San." 

"I'd kill to be a rotation student in their labs." Eunchae giggles. "What'd he say?"

"To meet him at his office on Tuesday to chat more."

"Well, that's good! Which other labs were you looking at?"

"I'm not sure. Song Mingi, Kang Yeosang, Jeong Yunho. Kim Namjoon—"

"Isn't Professor Choi's ex-wife with Professor Jeong now?" Jiung looks up with a squint.

"Yeah, apparently when it all went down, it was a mess." Felix chimes in, and you continue to type away at your phone. "Imagine your wife having an affair with your bestfriend."

"Harsh." Jiung does a head tilt.

"I guess they don't interact much anymore, do they? Seems to be water under the bridge."

"I don't think so, but Professor Lee works in the Chemical Engineering department so they might have to from time to time if students in her lab wanna be co-advised or collaborate with him. Professor Jeong, though."

"Awkward. At least they can keep it civil." Felix shrugs at Eunchae's response.

"They lowkey have no choice." Felix looks up in thought before shrugging. "Still sucks to know your bestfriend was involved."

"Seriously." You add.

"Either way, those are good labs to possibly rotate in. It'd be cool if you could get into Namjoon's lab. Heard he's cool as fuck even though he's the department chair." Felix tosses his napkin into his empty paper bowl.

"Yeah, same. I'll keep you guys updated." You send off your response to Professor Choi with a small sigh. "There. Hopefully my rotation will be settled for the quarter."

From: yn@atz.edu To: choisan@atz.edu Hi Professor Choi, Yes, I can meet you at 10am on Tuesday. Thank you, and see you then! Best, Y/N

"Maybe you'll get more out of the rotation, especially with Professor Choi." Eunchae nudges your side and you let out a small yelp before you playfully pinch her bicep.

"What's that supposed to mean?" Jiung snorts.

"I'm just saying, he's successful. A hottie. Young. Single—"

"Here she goes." Felix lets out a breath.

"Bro. Calm down." Jiung laughs. "He's still a professor."

"What if you two get close during rotation and he falls in love with you?" She looks at you ever so seriously. 

"Relax." Felix laughs. "What kinda movie did we fall into?"

"Eunchae, please." You poke her cheek. "You know we rarely ever see the professors in lab. We get like.. five minute meetings with them and that's about as much of a personal interaction we'll get. They're busy people. Sorry to burst your bubble, bae." She shrugs.

"It was fun to think about." She giggles. "But no, that'll be a good experience for you if you get to join his lab for rotation. The others are great, too. Is he your first choice for a dissertation advisor, though?"

"As of now, yeah. But, we'll see how it all goes."

"Keep us updated." Jiung sips some water. "I think I need to reach out to one more professor for this quarter. Needa figure out my shit before classes start."

"Same." 

Meanwhile, San sees the notification from your email pop up in the corner of his screen and he immediately presses on it. He smiles a bit when he realizes how easy scheduling that meeting was— most of the time, people say they'll work with his schedule but end up pushing back. He slots you into his calendar before he can forget and switches his attention back to the progress report he's close to finishing up. 

San thinks it'll be nice to host a rotation student again, as the experience has always been useful, eventful, productive. He thinks it'll be like any other time; the experience being useful, eventful. Productive. He trusts in his group, the students, to come up with great ideas and be able to execute from start to finish.

So, he doesn't think much of it. He thinks he can hand you off and trust you with Belle and Sunwoo.

Little does he know that's where he gets it all wrong.

—taglist: @asjkdk @interweab @woojirang @svintsandghosts @cheolliehugs @persphonesorchid @mxnsxngie @jycas @cowboydk @vcutparis @chngbnwf @struggling101 @sanhwalvr @lynnsqueendom

[spaceorphan18]

The Lady Whistledown Papers : 2x02 Off To The Races (Part 2)

Welcome back, Gentle Readers, to The Lady Whistledown Papers, where I’m taking an in-depth look at Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton’s character arcs and romance within the show Bridgerton!

For previous issues, follow tag : The Lady Whistledown Papers

You. Guys. this episode continues to be a delight to meta. The Polin stuff in it is soooo delicious. I love it. Love it so much. Ooff, this season is so truly the real beginning of their story in a lot of ways.

At The Races

We're outside! At an event that isn't a ball or randomly walking up and down a sidewalk. It's kind of nice when the show throws in that there are other things to do in Mayfair.

We see the Featheringtons show up first. Philippa is excited about her upcoming marriage to Albion -- and it's really sweet that they allow her to have this love match. Penelope's on a mission to find the Bridgertons (and I love her for it). Prudence rolls her eyes - and I have to say, I wonder sometimes, if Prudence is not bored and lonely at this point. I think Philippa was her bff - but now that her attention is turned elsewhere - a man of all things - Prudence doesn't know what to do with herself. She also clocks Penelope.

As an aside, even if Eloise was blind to it, if there were two people who did know bout Penelope's crush - it was Prudence and Philippa. I just feel it.

Meanwhile, Anthony is fixated on Kate and Edwina and the Sharma shenanigans. Colin is paying attention, too, and I kind of wonder what he thinks about all of it. He literally just got back into town, and now Anthony is dragging him everywhere because he needs to best a girl. I kind of wonder what his actual thoughts are on it, since he's very removed, really, from all of it.

(Also - I am here for any kind of ABC brother interaction. I kind of love that they're all there in their solid Bridgerton blues, but each are dressed very differently. I wish I knew more about fashion to make a comment about it.)

Will comes along and is excited about his new prospects. It is odd, at first, to see Will without Simon - as he was firmly Simon's friend. But the whole point of this scene is to set up Will having his club.

Colin inquires about him going back into boxing, but Will says that he's opening a bar instead. Anthony brushes it off -- as they've got a club that they're already apart of, but Benedict jumps at the chance to talk to something, I'm sure, that isn't related to courtship. Colin seems somewhat interested as well.

I also need to point out.... When Anthony is chatting about family and togetherness, we get a pan over to said family. You notice two people are missing? That would be Colin and Eloise, both of whom are seeking out he same person. One of them is going to find her first.

Symbolic? Or Coincidence? -- actually narratively Colin needs to for the flow of the episode. But doesn't mean we can't inject a little symbolism into it. ;)

Alright, so Colin is actually hanging around just chatting with people. He's been gone a long time, and I'm sure people are curious. And Colin is going to chat anyone's ear off who will listen.

I was thinking, earlier, about Colin and friendships, and despite a little chatter last season that he does actually have some friends, I don't know that I buy that he has any actual close friends outside of his family and Penelope. He's friendly to everyone, but it's casual and cordial at best. And the minute he starts making olive puns, I get the impression most of them start looking for other people to talk to.

Look, I know we don't get to see this fully on display until he shows up at Marina's, but I'll argue that Colin tendency to be unabashedly himself lends himself to a social awkwardness that isn't fully unlike Penelope's. It's one of the reasons he goes inward at the start of Season 3. If he hides himself, he can fit in more.

Anyway... this girl, I swear... She is the most adorable. In her quest to find some Bridgertons, she sees Colin, and stops right in her tracks. And grins. Just -- the biggest grin ever. She is so happy he's back. But then, she downplays it, and pretends to be so unaware of what's going on until he takes notice of her. Make him come to her - I see what you're doing there, Penelope. It's so hilarious and cute, and I love how she's like, ladeda pretending I don't see my favorite person in the world.

I really should have grabbed a gif for this moment but.. just like with her, the moment he sees her, his entire face lights up. He literally takes a second and does a little gasp and pauses and his whole world is brightened. He's thrilled to see her.

Their body language in this scene is just... so, so, good.

I love that, at first, Penelope tries to act casually surprised that he's interested in seeing her. She's hilariously terrible at playing subtle, but he really doesn't notice, because he wants to see her and wants to talk to her.

And here's the thing that really stands out to me -- Colin comments that they didn't get to talk earlier that morning. And Penelope makes her cute, awkward little remark about shouting his name. And in this moment she is just as weird, just as awkward, just as ridiculous as she is going to be in those Season 3 scenes where she's attempting to flirt (and failing).

But that's the thing -- instead of being offput by it, Colin is visibly charmed by her oddity. Part of it is, yes, he is used to her. He sees her far more frequently than a lot of the other members of the ton. But he is sincerely endeared by her and her mannerisms. It's not off putting at all -- it's adorably just Penelope.

A Penelope he's gotten to know through the intimacy of their shared, written correspondence. They haven't been face to face in months -- but coming back together again, feels like the most natural thing. Because they have been talking. And because there is now something privately shared between the two of them.

That's why the writing together while he was away is soooo important to their relationship. Because they have given small parts of themselves to the other one. And seeing each other in person just reinforces that -- hey, I really enjoy this person. Penelope is outwardly aware of it, as her feelings have always been there. Colin is just starting to figure this out.

Penelope states that she's wants to hear more about his travels. And it's sincere! She does! For some complex reasons, too. She always wants to hear more about him, as she does adore him, and seeing the world through his eyes is a way to bring her closer to him. But also, she's got a limited world view -- being stuck in Mayfair, pulled by the strings of her mother. To have someone whom she loves dearly be able to help expand her world's view, is really quite special to her, I'm sure.

And Colin, again, lights up at her interest. Colin is a bit insecure at times and her interest is validating. (Especially when, we'll see, no one else is going to care about his travels.) He does some self-deprecation again, when he says - I'm sure you would have been bored of my travels, dismissing himself as if it were nothing. But then goes on to let us (the audience) know that she's written to and replied to more of his letters than anyone else (I'm sure combined).

She has a genuine interest in him, and that's really stuck out. And it's meaningful. It's, again, validating (and good for his ego), but also compounds and sheds light on something he was aware of but not focused on -- the fact that Penelope, when stripped away from the baggage society throws on her, is intelligent and witty and warm and fun. And being around her makes him feel good.

His compliments of her make her shine as well. She is so thrilled by this interaction, feeling validated herself that what she imagined in the letters is actually true -- that they did mean something to him. (Remember, this is coming off the previous episode where her mother and sister insist that Colin couldn't possibly be her friend.)

But also she states that there is so much more than one can put on paper. And an amused little grin crosses his face. It's fascinating actually - because he's agreeing with her, yes, but there's something more there as well. He is so giddy that someone shows a genuine interest in him. So thrilled that she wants to hear more.

Colin asks how she's been, and she responds -- well. She's pretty giddy as well. Because she has been doing well. Lady Whistledown has been well respected and getting her (secretly) a lot of attention. She feels more confident in her abilities because of it. And her shininess helps her be more herself.

But also - Colin has a genuine interest in her, too, which also makes her giddy. (Of course, narrative foreshadowing! Our hero is in a good place, only questionable things going forward... but I'm getting way ahead of myself.)

Penelope, in turn, asks how he is though jokes that she does not need to, as she's heard about it. And we get a little snippet of what he did on his travels, which was quite a lot! And we can also gleam from this just how much he has written to her about what he's been up to. And he is just thrilled to hear all of this spouted off to him. It means that she's been actually paying attention to him.

And that's important in their relationship. Both of them have issues with feeling ignored and displaced in their world(s). But they see each other. They pay attention to one another. They listen to each other. And that is so key as a foundation of their relationship.

Colin states that it was all very exhilarating! It was - it was quite the experience, and having someone to share it with makes it even more special.

And here's where I get to my -- THESE TWO ARE JUST THE BIGGEST IDIOTS -- level of analysis.

Because, ultimately, they have been apart a long time, and all they really want to do is go in a corner somewhere and catch up. And talk. And discover more about each other. And if it wasn't 1814 (or whatever year it's supposed to be), they'd probably go do that.

My point is, though, that THIS episode is the real beginning of their romantic storyline. Season 1 was more of a prelude, a set up and introduction. But their story here -- totally romantic comedy.

And I'll reiterate... this is why I love Polin (and multi-season television as a story device). Because there are layers to this relationship that are built upon.

But I also want to add in a big point. One of the key factors here is that they do genuinely like each other. Genuinely want to be around each other. They WANT to be together. And they ARE friends.

Yes, this very much is the beginning of a romantic relationship, and Penelope is very much in love with him. But I don't want to take the friendship element for granted. This relationship doesn't start because two people find each other attractive and act on it. This is a relationship born out of similarities and a foundation of genuine affection. This is the groundwork for the whole friends-to-lovers thing, because we see their friendship on great display here. And that is special.

Penelope then goes on to ask if it was lonely. And she's so kinda bashful about it. It's somewhat hilarious, actually, because what she's really doing is poking around to see if he found someone to... idk, court? marry? find companionship with? She is the gossip hound after all, and she wants to know if all the things.

And this is where I have some headcanons about Colin... I don't think he started sleeping with women until his second tour. I think the first tour was to clear his head and (as he'll say later this episode) he's sworn off women. So her question is truly perplexing -- he doesn't get that what she really wants to know is if he's hooking up with other women.

And here's where I want to know so much more about Colin and his travels! Because how did they work? Did he go with a group of people? Or did he show up to places and get adopted by them? He states that he was never alone -- and for sure, he wasn't. A man of his class probably wouldn't be. But it does make me wonder, was he lonely? Does he think that Penelope may recognize that -- despite all these exhilarating experiences, there was some loneliness in it? That he may not have had a close friend to share it with?

More over, was he not that lonely because he always had her and her correspondence to reply to?

It's interesting, though, that the minute he says he was never alone she immediately jumps to the conclusion that he's met someone. There's something... modern in the way this moment is phrased. Idk, I feel like you don't casually just meet someone and 'court' them or whatever, which is what her question implies. Also - the dude will not shut up about things he loves, so doubtful he'd keep a secret girlfriend secret.

I am really amused that the beat is played up -- as he doesn't really get a chance to answer because...

ELOISE!!!

And I love it. I love the dynamic of these three. I'd watch a whole show just of these three. (Actually, I would miss other characters, but... I really would watch the Polin/Eloise show).

I love that Penelope is grumbly that her other favorite pereson in the world is ruining her special moment. I love that Eloise's line -- you've only been here an hour an you're already in my way. The siblingness of it is just... so perfect. So, perfect. And Colin's cute little -- *sigh* good to see you, too.

It's going to be twenty years later, and this dynamic is still going to play out like this, lol. (also kudos to the comedic acting chops of everyone here. they're so, so good and let Bridgerton be comedic.)

On a final note about Colin, though, he is a little sad that Eloise has swooped in and taken Penelope away. He was enjoying that conversation. But also -- it's deflating his ego a bit that Eloise (and most of his family) have kind of moved on in their lives without him in it. Nor do they seem at all that interested in what he's been up to. (I don't fully get this myself -- as I would be asking all the questions, too.)

So moving on -- we have Eloise freaking out because she's made a discovery -- that she might know Lady Whistledown's publisher. And this has Penelope freaked. The way she dismissively says 'impossible' with such a firm tone, and yet is completely unnerved by Eloise's discovery is just... ooff. She was riding such a high two seconds ago, and now LW stuff is coming to haunt her.

Eloise goes on to discuss the physicality of the pamphlet (and I love their little, comedic exchange about it feeling like paper -- and Pen's comment about how all paper feels the same).

Eloise goes on -- discussing how the pamphlet about dogs is identical to the LW papers, and yes, she is acting a bit unhinged. But... she's also not wrong, and Penelope knows that, even as she downplays it.

Penelope's confidence in her secret is not shaken, however. Eloise calms down a bit, knowing she's a bit off her rocker in that moment. And Penelope states that Eloise is finding mere coincidences. And I love how amused Penelope is at all of it. She's cool and calm and not at all seriously worried yet.

Also, idk, I kind of love the genuine amusement we get from Penelope in this scene. There's something about her this season that feels like growth. She doesn't seem quite so young (even if she isn't as /adult/ as she is in season 3).

From across the way, Portia signals for Penelope to return which....

oh my god, I should mention before I forget -- does anyone really notice Penelope and Colin talking? Alone? Unsupervised? Take a drink, guys, we're now on -- Pen and Colin do things how they want because no one really cares -- Season 2 edition.

Anyway, Penelope has to go back to her family now, play time is over. I love the cute little tap Pen gives Eloise with the fan. (The fan, in general, is a great prop in this scene.)

Colin is clearly into the horse racing. Dude loves some sports.

Omg, is he sitting next to Portia?? I mean, that's Jack in the purple. Like, where is Pen??? She had the opportunity to sit near Colin (and Eloise) and she didn't take it? I can't seem to spot her at all in the crowd stuff (though it's very hard with the wide shots.) Did they give Nicola a day off?

Also, everyone is happily screaming, and Colin looks as pissed as Anthony does. Did he loose a bet? Was there cut content?? I want to knoooow.

I guess I'll leave you with those open ended questions for now, dear readers ;)

[blueesnow]

(10/10) HE★VENS Special Training! - LE Event Story Translation (UR Eiji, SR Shion)

Sypnosis: For their upcoming live concert, the members of HE★VENS have decided to go to a training camp to strengthen their performance and to film behind-the-scenes footage. Eiji is busy preparing for the camp with his friends in mind, while Shion is excited to be able to stay overnight with the members even though it's for work. Whether it be lessons or free time, a fulfilling time is about to begin for all of them…!

Ch 1:

-HE★VENS Dorm Living Room- Eiji: ーA traning camp? For all of us? Eiichi: Yeah, that's right. The objective is to strengthen our performance for the upcoming live concert. Eiichi: We're also thinking of filming the situation of the training camp as required and showing it during the live concert in a form of behind the scenes footage. Eiichi: And here's a pamphlet about the facility. What do you guys think? Nagi: Oh, it sounds interesting☆ We had a training camp before, but we didn't have a close-up camera following us around. Nagi: I'll have to get them to take all sorts of shot of how cute I am♪ Shion: Filming our usual activities… I'm a bit nervous, but this is also for Angel's sake. Shion: As long as I'm there with everyone, I'm sure that I will be able to smile naturally. Amakusa will also do his best. Kira: …It's a nice facility. It's also…well-equipped. The dance lessons…will be going well. Van: Oh, there's also a river nearby. It has lots of greenery too, and taking a walk around sounds refreshing! Kira: We need to make…a lesson plan first. The walk is…after that. Van: What's with you Kira-chan, you seem to be so enthusiastic~! Do you really like this place that much? Yamato: I understand how he feels. I've seen a machine that I've been wanting to try it out, it would make for a great workout. Yamato: Also, food. If there are any delicious local specialties, I want to buy it and take it home with me. Eiji: I think it's great! To be able to go out with everyone and get lots of training there sounds amazing. Eiji: I'll also work hard for Angel's sake. Eiichi: That's the spirit! Well then, now that we've come to an agreement, the location will be on that place, okay. Eiichi: And while we're at it, let's discuss about the footage as well. Where and how it will be used in the live concert. Eiichi: We could keep some of the behind-the-scenes to a few minutes and play it straight through the interlude. Or maybe, we can cut a lot of it… Eiichi: And use it as an opening attack video. These are the two ideas I'm thinking of right now, but do let me know if you have any other ideasー

Ch 2:

-Training Camp's Lobby- Nagi: We've arrived~☆ The lobby looks pretty cute too♪ It suits Nagi perfectly! What should we do about the rooms? Yamato: Now that you mention, we haven't decided on the room assignment yet, huh. Shall we split up to 2, 2, 3? Van: We also have training later, so let's decide on it quickly. 1, 2…Rock, paper, scissors! Kira: It's settled up…nicely. Eiichi, Yamato and I…in a three-person room. The rest is Eiji with Shion…And Nagi with Van. Eiichi: Everyone, please gather in the studio as soon as you put down your luggage. We're going to start our lesson immediately. Eiji: Shion, it looks like we're sharing a room together. I'm in your care! By the way, I just saw the poster that was on the entrance and… Eiji: Apparently there is a place near here where you can see wild birds. How about we go there after our practice is over? Shion: Oh my…what a blessing it is. I'm truly grateful from the bottom of my heart… -Training Camp's Lesson Room- Eiji: (…*sigh* I had no problems with the singing lesson earlier, but I don't seem to be doing well with dancing lesson today…Ah!) Eiji: We didn't align together just now, right. It's probably because I was too late. I'm sorry for failing so many times… Can we start over again from the beginning…? Yamato: Don't worry. We didn't mind it one bit. Right, Eiichi? Eiichi: …That's right, it's okay. Now then, let's play the music again. Eiji: Thank you. I'll definitely do it right this time…! Eiji: (…! My toes get stuck…!) Nagi: You okay? Nothing's hurt? Eiji: Yeah, I just stumbled a little bit…I'm really sorry. Can I ask you to start over again from the beginning…? Shion: …*pant*…*pant*… Kira: …Eiichi. Can we stop…for now? It's going to be more painful…any further. Eiichi: Yeah, you're right. …You know what, let's wrap it up here. We're going to continue tomorrow morning. There will be cameras as well, so I'm going to make some preparations now. Eiji: Okay…I got it. …I'll be refreshing my mind in the meantime!

Ch 3:

-Riverbank- Kira: Do you think Eiji is…fine from earlier? I'm a little bit…worried about him. Yamato: Well, he did work his hardest every time, but also failed repeatedly… But hey, that kind of thing happens once in a while. Yamato: And besides, Eiji is already an outstanding idol. He can handle that much on his own. Eiichi: That's right, we've given him plenty of time. Believing and waiting is also another way of being thoughtful. Kira: You're right. Eiji is…our trustworthy comrade. I guess…I was thinking too much of it. Yamato: Yeah! Well, now that I'm here, I'm going for a run now. See you guys at dinner time later. Kira: …Wait. If Yamato's going…then I will run as well. I can't afford…to fall behind. Eiichi: Count me in as well! But… Since this is a rare opportunity, just running around normally is simply boring. Eiichi: How about we make a bet with it and have a competition instead? Yamato: Okay, I'm in. So, to make it easy to understand, the loser must do one thing that the winner says, how about it? Kira: I'll accept…the challenge. The finish line will be on that big tree over there. 1, 2… Start! - Yamato: That was quite a good start, Kira. However, I'll be going first from here! Kira: No…I won't let you. Likewise… Do you think you can keep up with me? Yamato: *pant*…*pant*…. You're quite tough, aren't ya… But, your legs are probably on its limit now. Kira: That's… It should be my line. Just a little bit more…to the goal….Eiichiー?! Yamato: So fast! I can't believe I got overtaken at the last minute like this… - Eiichi: Hmm… It's really exciting to compete against someone with such great talent! That start dash was especially spectacular. Eiichi: My only regret is that it ended so quickly. …No wait, the one who finish first this time was me. Eiichi: In that case, the only “wish” I can ask for is this. I would like to request a rematch with both of you! Let's have one more heat competition. Kira & Yamato: ……!

Ch 4:

Van: And the next is… Oh, we're back at the lobby. I see, so it connected to this place. Nagi: With this, that means we're done with full tour of the building☆ Well then, let's end this exploration at that stand♪ Nagi: What do they have here~… Oh, ice cream! Not to mention, they also have Nagi's favorite too☆ Nagi: Hey, Van~ Nagi wants an ice cream♪ So that he can work even harder for the lesson☆ Van: Uhh…. If you say it like that, then I really have no choice but buy it for you! I really can't win againts Nagi-chan! Van: Besides… You probably came here with me with the intention of wanting this from the very beginning, didn't ya? Van: I thought it's weird for sure. You didn't even follow Eiji-chan and Shii-chan when they went towards the river. Nagi: That's not it. Besides~ Didn't Van had fun exploring around with cute Nagi? Van: You're right. And that's why I'll be buying you your favorite ice cream, choose one for me too, 'kay. Nagi: Yaay~! Thanks☆ Umm… First is this chocolate♪ Nagi: And then, one with fruits in it… Oh, there's the new one that I've been searching for! It's written here that the ingredients are all premium~☆ Van: Wait wait, isn't that quite a lot? If you eat that much, you're not going to have any room for dinner later. Nagi: This is for dessert after dinner! …Oh, this flower shaped one is cute too but, hmm….which one he'd like more…? Van: Oh…I see. We need to buy seven of it. And the reason why you're having trouble for that one is because it's for Eiji's share, right. Van: You're really kind, aren't ya~ I'm proud of you, Nagi-chan! Nagi: Not really…this kind of thing is normal. Anyway, which one of these do you think is the best one…? Van: That's right… Let's go with the most luxurious one. Eating that will definitely cheer him up! Van: Y'know what, let's just turn this place into a big party where we'll be handing ice creams to everyone! What do you think? Nagi: I don't think Eiji is the same as Van though… Oh well, party is not that bad I guess. It's fun too♪ Nagi: Alright, now that it's settled, let's go and call Eiichi and the others right away! We're going to start a strategy meeting for the ice cream party☆

Ch 5:

Shion: The babbling sound of the river, the swaying green leaves through the sunlight, and the occasional soft chirping of the birds. …As I thought, the waterside is indeed a place where you can feel at ease. Shion: Ohh… This voice sounds like it came from a small bird with soft green feathers… It wasn't very noticeable from here, but… it was definitely there, on that branch… Eiji: Eh…? Oh…you're right. It's so small and cute…Ah. Eiji: It flied away. Maybe it went back to its home… Shion: (…Eiji…I guess he's still worried about what happened earlier… Is there something that I can do to cheer him up…) Shion: That tree with the white branches that can be seen by the riverbank… I wonder what kind of flowers will bloom on it… Eiji: Umm, those are fluffy flowers full of white, elongated petals that can be seen in the spring. Shion: Then what's the name of that tall grass over there…? Eiji: …Umm, that one, judging from its leaves…Oh. Hey, Shion. Are you trying to be considerate of me? Eiji: We've only been talking of my favorite plants instead of birds since a while ago. Shion: That's, um… I'm not… Eiji: I thought so. …I'm sorry. Not only just now, but also during that lesson earlier. Eiji: Now that I think about it, it's because I kept trying to start over that I accidently made Shion pushed himself too hard, and that's why the practice got halted earlier… Shion: The one who's at fault was Amakusa. Because of my lack of strength, I could not continue to do it to the fullest… Eiji: No, it's actually my fault. I was only just thinking about myself, it's my fault that I made everyone repeating themselves over and over again. Shion: But, I also… Ah, if we keep this up it will never end… Eiji: You're right. I was wrong earlier. …What I really needed to say to you was actually a thank you. Eiji: Thanks for worrying about me. I really need to pull myself together, for Shion's sake and everyone who gave me time to cool myself down. Shion: …For that, we need the power of the nature. Trees with roots planted deep in the earth, and small birds perched on the treetops chirping gracefully. Shion: I'm sure it will provide a great comfort and learning…

Ch 6:

Nagi: ���Okaay, now that everyone's here, let's start the strategy meeting right away! The topic is about the ice cream party after dinner☆ Van: Actually, Nagi-chan and I were just talking about how we wanted to give Eiji-chan some ice cream to cheer him up. Van: And then I thought, why don't we just turn it into an enjoyable party and hand them over one-by-one with everyone? It will be a nice change of pace too. Kira: I'm okay…with that. What do you think…Eiichi? Eiichi: Yeah, I agree. Since everyone cares so much about it, I would rather we do something fun for it. Yamato: Shall we turn it into a treasure hunt like we did last time? The one where you get an ice cream if you can solve the puzzle. Nagi: It sounds good, but I don't think we have enough time to prepare… At the very least, I want to decorate the venue in a cute style. Eiichi: If we can somehow lead Eiji outside, even with the strict requirement for the treasure hunt's preparation, we can still have time to do the decorations, can't we? Van: A way to lure them outside at night… Hmm. It's already completely out of season, but maybe we can do a test of courage…? Shion: …Why is everyone gathered here? Did we forgot that we're supposed to have a meeting or… Van: Oh that's not it, you don't have to worry. We were just talking about how it would be fun to do a test of courage after dinner. Nagi: Yep yep☆ It's a fun activity and we planned to split up the team with each room pairs to strengthen our bonds! I know it's not summer right now, but Nagi wants to do it♪ Shion: Test of courage… I don't mind but… Eiji: If we're going by room pairs, that means I'll be the one going with you, right? Then I'll lead the way as a thank you for earlier, so you don't have to worry. Shion: …Amakusa is not that young to receive such consideration. Rather, Eiji should just think of me as your older brother and let me be the one in charge. Kira: Like an older brother…huh. …The way how you two care about each other. Both of you…are admirable. Yamato: I mean, it's fine but, with the way how it's going, don't you think it feels a bit weird…? First of all, Eiji's older brother is literally right there. Eiji: Fufu! …Thanks, Shion. Okay, I'll be counting on you. Eiichi: Now then, let's get started with the preparations! But before that Shion, can you come here for a bit? There's something that I need to tell you. Shion: …? Got it…

Ch 7:

Shion: (Eiichi and the others have entrusted me with the task of keeping Eiji in this test of courage as long as possible. I must do my best…to fulfill this task…) Shion: …Forgive me, Eiji. It's because I drew the first number, we were forced to suddenly do the challenge first… Eiji: Nah, you don't have to worry. Let's give it our best, okay? …Isn't this the area where we both came before dinner? Eiji: The atmosphere changes a lot at night. I wonder if the birds around are also different. Shion: The bird that chirps just now is a different bird. But the little green bird we saw before were said to also flies at night. Though it would be a little difficult to actually see them. Eiji: Oh, I see. It'd be nice if we could find them… Wait sorry, we don't have time to play around. We need to hurry up. Shion: No…we don't…have to hurry. …Right, being hasty will only lead to confusion. If we go down the wrong path, we'll just end up getting lost. Shion: Let's continue to walk as we normally do. It's important to move forward with peace of mind… Eiji: I guess you're right. Umm, let's review the instruction map again… Eiji: Right now we're in this area, and the tree we're looking for is probably nearby. I don't think we're on the wrong path. Shion: …Right. As soon as we found that tree, we just need…to pick up the letter stored in the hole, return back to the camp and we're done. Shion: W-What's that noise just now…!? It sounds so unfamiliar… Eiji: It's okay, I think it's just a wind. It started blowing suddenly… Mm…it's getting stronger now. Eiji: Whoa…! Something fell down. Oh…It's a flower! Does that mean this tree is the one we're looking for…? Eiji: …It really is. Here, I found the hole! I've heard that this tree's flowers are prone to scaling… Oh, I found the letter, too. Shion: Ohh, as expected of Eiji. That's a brilliant deduction using your knowledge of plants… Eiji: Oh no, calling it a brilliant deduction is a bit of an exaggeration. But I'm flattered by your compliment. …Anyway, there's 3 letters here, what should we do? Shion: The one who found it is Eiji. You should choose the one that appeals the most to you. Eiji: Well then, I'm going to pick the one on the top. …Wow, it's written "jackpot" here! But… Is this really how a test of courage supposed to be like? Shion: It’s probably a sign that something good will happen after this. I think it's best to just be grateful and accept it…

Ch 8:

Nagi: Eiichi, can you move that chenille stems a little bit more to the right… Yep, it's perfectly cute☆ Now the decorations are complete♪ Kira: Now…let's hand out…the party poppers. It should be popped…at the moment the ice cream is handed out. Yamato: Oi, Eiji and Shion is already back! They're quite faster than I thought! We need to hurry go outside. Eiichi: Got it. We're just about done with the preparation. Everyone, after you get the party popper from Kira, start heading outside. - Eiji: ーShion, I can see the training camp! …Oh, are you guys waiting here for us? We're back! Van: Welcome back? How's the result? …Though I guess I don't have to ask with that smiling face of yours! Shion: Yeah… Eiji made use of his knowledge of plants and found the tree we're looking for… Yamato: Wow, that's amazing. How's the letter you guys picked up? Eiji: Umm, there are 3 letters around and the one that I picked had a "jackpot" written on it. Here. Kira: …Congratulations. If you pulled off the jackpot…that means you'll get the special treatment. Now…come here. - Eiji: …Wow! It looks just like a party venue… There's even a banner that says "Congratulations"…! Nagi: Okaa~y, congrats on hitting the jackpot☆ As for the prize, we'll be giving you this special ice cream♪ Nagi: Umm, this one is for Eiji, and this one is Shion's☆ Eiji: Wow…! But, is it really okay? To give me this delicious ice cream… Van: It's perfectly okay. Besides, Nagi-chan originally bought this for Eiji in the first place. Eiichi: Yeah, Nagi was very determined to give it to you in a very elaborate way, he even took the initiative to organize it. Take it as you will. Nagi: Hey, what are you guys telling him!? Geez~!! …That's not it, okay! This is just a normal ice cream party! Shion: …As long as Eiji's happy, I'm also happy as well. Everyone thought the same thing too. Eiji: …You guys did all of this for me… I, thank you so much. I feel like I can do anything as long as everyone's with me. Eiji: As I thought, I really love HE★VENS…!

Ch 9:

Eiji: (Ah…the one where I got tripped yesterday…I managed to perfectly did it! Alright, let's keep this up until the end…!) Eiichi: We managed to do it successfuly. Turn off the camera for a bit. …Good for you, Eiji! You look as if a different person than yesterday. Eiji: It's all thanks to everyone. I've received a lot of strength from you guys yesterday. Shion also helped me practice too this morning. Eiji: I can't thank you enough how much I appreciate you all. I know I say this a lot, but again, thank you so much for everything. Shion: The same goes for Amakusa as well. Eiji has always been kind, considerate and helped me a lot. Shion: I want you to always please keep that in mind… Now, let's move on to the next filming. 【Road to Live! -Special Comments-】 Yamato: Yo, Angel. The training camp for the upcoming live has been going really well. Yamato: I feel like I can do my best, knowing that you guys are waiting for us. In return, we will give you the best live ever! Kira: Don't look back…and just keep looking forward. In order to make Angel…happier than anyone else. Kira: I'm sending you…my honest feelings. I hope you will…receive it. Eiichi: This supreme music, which strongly binds us to Angel. The eyes that look back at us are more eloquent than any other words. Eiichi: This song full of love will add more colors to you and make you shine even more brighter. Now, let us take you to an even higher place…! Van: Beautiful scenery and splendid facilty… There are so many things here that I wanted to show you, Angel. But… Van: What I want to show you the most is how we've changed and grown during this training camp. I will give you lots of love, so please look forward to it! Nagi: Hey, Angel. You probably already knew this but, I'm reaa~lly a genius, y'know? Nagi: As soon as you take your eyes off of me for even a second, I'll become a new Nagi right away, y'know! So you have to watch me all the time, okay☆ Shion: We, HE★VENS, always care and support each other… The driving force behind this is always you, Angel. Shion: Amakusa vows to be your strength to the best of his ability. Let this beautiful melody that we play express our many thoughts and feelings toward you… Eiji: Compared to how incompetent I feel in myself, I actually feel much more happier just by seeing your face, Angel. Eiji: And that's why, I'll try to do my best to continue stand on that stage. So that I can meet you, my dearest…!

Ch 10:

-Live Stage's Backstage- Eiji: (…The opening video has started… It seems that everyone's happy to see us during our training camp, I'm glad) Eiji: (Alright… Let's go!) - Eiji: Thank you for coming over here, Angel! Are you ready for the song? Eiji: Fufu, I'm glad to hear that. I hope you enjoy it to the fullest! Shion: I wonder if you enjoyed the opening video… It was taken from our training camp in preparation for this live. Shion: So many things that we've gained there have now come to fruition… Just as the name “Road to Live!” implies, it has led us to this day. Eiji: If I had to pick one thing that I enjoyed about the training camp, I would say the ice cream party. Eiji: Nagi took the lead in organizing an ice cream party for everyone. Van: We borrowed the lobby of the training camp and decorated it. By having a nice change of pace, even eating an ice cream will get you fired up! Eiichi: I have fond memories of having a running competition by the riverbank that was featured in the video earlier. Yamato: We did it multiple times after all. Although I'm frustrated that I lost at the first time. I ended up winning on the next one so I just let it pass. Kira: Whoever wins first…will have their wish granted. We started it with that bet in mind…but in the end, everyone used their wishes to request a rematch. Nagi: That's so troublesome… I'm glad that I never went with them. Nagi went exploring the training camp♪ We took pictures at a cute place we found there☆ Shion: The souvenir that Amakusa bought still remains in my heart… It's a glass container suitable for serving light snow*. Eiji: Let's use it with everyone when summer came, okay. …Anyway, that's it for our memories from the training camp. Eiji: From today onwards, I want to make lots of wonderful memories with you. Shion: Right. Such a wonderful memory that will make you smile spontaneously however many times you recall it. Eiji: Now, let's go! Everyone, make sure to follow us, okay! Shion: Let's fly into the world of music together with us. Eiji: We want you to experience the music that only the seven of us…HE★VENS can create!

*: Idk exactly what kind of souvenir did Shion bought... like, ガラスの器 is indeed can be a glassware/glass container, and 盛り付け is indeed mean serving but... Idk I'm quite confused on how to translate that:")))

[allwormdiet]

Interlude 2

Ahh, it's time for Brockton Bay's healthiest family to debut

Flight is so cool. Flight without having to get cold or wet or getting pelted by bugs is outright unfair.

Me, utterly charmed: oh my god she's a fucking NERD

And she's a nerd who's scaring the piss out of Nazis, who would hate this girl?

Which, oh yeah, the Nazis run around in Brockton Bay, bet those guys will never sour my mood

Glory Girl's got a whole bunch of powers, huh. Can't wait to get into the exact circumstances of how she got really cool abilities as an inadequate consolation prize for whatever hell she had to endure

I'm gonna be real, the description of this throw made me flinch a little bit. Like he's a Nazi so fuck him, but I hope it doesn't turn out that Victoria is this blase about all her targets

...So if the only spines she ever breaks are Nazi spines, then I'll give Glory Girl every pass she ever asks for, but if she ever wraps a weed dealer's skeleton around a lamppost I'm going to feel a liiiiiittle more concerned.

Everything else aside, this is fucking hilarious

So these two are at the epicenter of, as far as I can tell, one of the most divisive subjects in this fandom? With the others mostly seeming to be variations on "did such-and-such character have full moral justification to do actual for-real crimes against humanity." Let's see where this takes us

I feel a little bad immediately for the contrasts between Vicky and Amy. Five bucks says it's gonna turn out Amy is like the only brunette in the whole family, and while everyone else gets to show off a little she's dressed in a sackcloth. It's very white mage, but I don't know if she even knows what a white mage is.

Also it's a minor detail in the grand scheme of things but I fear for her hair's health if it's actively being described as frizzy

So apparently between ragdolling a Nazi like it's Garrys Mod and this passage, people have chosen to interpret Victoria Dallon as a monster. I can see how they'd be mistaken on this because technically speaking they're close: she's a teenager. For a lot of people the worst version of ourselves is one that exists somewhere between the ages of twelve and twenty, don't ask me how I know that one. The guilt trip here is definitely manipulative, but so is every kid who's trying to play whatever card they have to dodge repercussions for their fuckups. This is a kid, not a master manipulator who twists hearts around in her fingers like rings. This is normal behavior within an abnormal context.

According to Wikipedia, "foreshadowing is a narrative device in which a storyteller gives an advance hint of what is to come later in the story. Foreshadowing often appears at the beginning of a story, and it helps develop or subvert the audience's expectations about upcoming events."

Fuck Nazis, and I'm gonna get in a preemptive "fuck Coil" while I'm at it

Hmm. So here we get the Docks from a third perspective (albeit a Nazi's, so let's take it with a grain of salt), and this time it's presented as something of material value. I wonder how much of that is due to the neighborhood being low-priority for the police and Protectorate, if they decided it's not worth policing if it's not going to recover any time soon.

It's also interesting seeing which names are being thrown around with the possibility of fighting over the territory. I know Squealer ends up part of the Merchants and they end up being a decent power in their own right, but I don't know if any of the others would have shown an interest in fighting for territory. I got the impression that Uber and Leet are more like unfunny and violent pranksters than anything, Circus apparently operates on their own which doesn't seem like how you'd make dreams of conquest come true, the Undersiders are sticking with the theft shtick at this point, and I don't know shit about Trainwreck or Stain. Wonder how much of this is legit speculation, how much of it is the E88 leadership blowing smoke for their followers, and how much of it is this specific guy blowing smoke.

Yeah, see, they're good kids. For now.

Current Thoughts

To pull back on the frame a little, I think this interlude was written with two goals: first and most obvious is to get us in the head of another young cape, a for-real hero this time, who will be featuring in future events to some extend, but then beyond that it's reflecting the rippling consequences of Taylor's actions. Taking down Lung was a good deed, it saved lives and weakened a major gang within the city, but now others are rushing in to take advantage of this and it could cause more harm than was prevented in Arc 1. Taylor couldn't have known these repercussions were coming, she's a high school sophomore who'd only engaged with the cape community in any way after she'd already knocked the bastard over, and she probably still would have made the play to take Lung down and save the Undersiders even knowing that there might be increased gang violence. She's big on action and she's big on pushing through to solve the problem, repercussions dealt with later, but I suspect that everything is going to ripple out in this same way until the whole city starts shaking with it.

Anyway, more to the first point, I like Victoria, she took very little time to endear herself to me and I'm not going to feel so awful about her bone-breaking habits as long as she keeps it to the Nazis

I haven't seen enough of Amy to have a full read on her yet, and I haven't gotten into her head to know how she thinks or feels, but for now I'm pretty solidly on sympathy/pity for her. I'd say something like "we'll see where she takes it from here" but I kinda already know that one

Hoo, boy. Arc 2 done with. 18 chapters in four days? That's not bad. I'm gonna stretch my legs and think for a bit and then I'll give my two cents on the whole of Insinuation.

[fairuzfan]

Hi Med,

tldr; I recently purchased an exhibition book of Palestinian photographs. Would you like to have it after I've finished reading it?

-

I've been following you and learning a lot from you. I'd really like to give you something that would be in better hands with you, if you feel comfortable with it.

I'm not sure if you're aware of Souq Stories, the 2019- collaborative photography project of Palestinian markets across 7 cities (Gaza, Jaffa, Jerusalem, Nazareth, Acre, Nablus, and Khalil). It was displayed in those 7 cities simultaneously in 2021, as an act of Palestinian unity and defiance of colonial borders.

This month, SAFE, the brilliant pro-Palestine student org at the University of Michigan, coordinated with folks who were involved in the original project, and brought it to UMich. The exhibit was in memory of one of the photographers, Fouad Abu Khammash, who was martyred in January. https://www.lib.umich.edu/visit-and-study/events-and-exhibits/today-and-upcoming/souq-stories-gaza-lives

As a part of the exhibition, you could purchase exhibition books (with proceeds going to support Palestinians). I purchased one of these exhibition books. I realized I don't want this beautiful photography book to sit on a shelf after myself and my roommate read it.

Would you like to have it after we've completed it? I'm thinking it will be more cherished and taken care of in the home of a Palestinian archivist. Additionally, this book is bilingual with English and Arabic, so you can share even the text with folks who can read either.

P.S. Feel free to respond privately if you'd like to exchange contact details

P.P.S. I could also share with you photos of the book's pages, if you'd be interested but don't feel comfortable exchanging details with a rando. If you don't respond, then I'll try to send another ask some time with a Google drive link to the photos. No pressure on responding or reading. I just wanted to give you the opportunity.

Best wishes

This is sosososo sweet thank you so much for sending this. I would love a Google link to this if you have the time and energy. Thank you so much for offering, no worries if you can't do it!!

[torihakaraublog]

Little Brother Appreciation Day <3

If I'm being honest this was kind of an 'unnecessary' event as they didn't need a thank you from Lucifer for being nice to him lol. Cute though.

Basically Lucifer after seeing how much thought his brothers put into planning something special for him (takes place after "Lucifer Appreciation Day" btw) he decides to do something for them as well. He gives them each a gift and leaves the house for a few days. We get half a day with each brother to do their gift/activity.

Mammon - Casino (winning + handholding)

Levi - Spooky anime watching (cuddling)

Asmo - Shopping (kissing or musical lipstick)

Satan - Bookstore (reading together + picking out books)

Beel - Burger place (trying limited edition food)

Bel - Bedding Shopping (cuddling)

All the moments were very sweet, but since the event was so short it was over in a blink of an eye xD

Love how Lucifer's excuse for leaving was for "Out for business with Diavolo" for 3 days... sus.

Beel was also super sweet wanting to find a way to thank Lucifer for the gifts *cuteness aggression intensifies*

And they also got to show Lucifer they can manage the house themselves!

Obey Me! NB "The Devildom Cooking Royal" Pop Quiz

A cute and silly event! (with a slight very real economic problem mixed in)

Mammon, Diavolo, Bel, Raphael and Levi join you in searching for the food that ran away from the cafeteria!

Liked how we got to see a bit of how proactive Bel can be when he's interested in the problem being solved - making a list of run away foods without anyone asking because he knows it will help.

Was cracking up when Dia said we should give the veggies a chance to explain why they ran away xD I was like: "Probably cause they don't want to get eaten Dia..." But I was WRONG! It was a protest to protect Devildom food culture!! lmao (as lots of human world foods have become popular)

In the bottom route Mammon comes up with the idea to have a food festival with Devildom only foods. However, he also tries to sneak off with some veggies to sell while we are cooking. I put him on garnish duty after that to keep him busy lol.

I'm concerned with how excited these veggies are to be cooked...

In the sparkle route its Mammon that makes the activity suggestion again; this time a cooking competition!

Poor Raphael is ignored by the veggies :(

Diavolo treating the peppers like his pets was funny!

Got to share cake at the end with Mammon :3

Teams are:

Beel + Raphael

Bel and Dia

Mammon and us

Levi = announcer

Is Levi wearing his chess outfit...? lol

Foods Mentioned

midnight lettuce

snapping grapes

underworld potatoes

shadow carrots

lamentation onions

shadow curry (has potatoes, carrots, and onion in it)

jet-black Devildom curry (I use this as an option to make)

dark banana (like warm climates)

nightmare mango (like warm climates)

underworld fruit punch

pesky peppers

minestrone (devilishly tasty lol)

grilled shadow veggies (chose this to make for competition) /mixed grilled shadow veggie special (made by Beel's team)

shadow veggie and cheese gratin

purgatory ratatouille (chose this to change our dish into cause how could I not??)

I'm very sad to hear about the recent game update T_T but it makes me feel a bit better to see the VAs seem excited about the upcoming projects <3

I never finished the OG game story so I'll probably be posting more content relating to that once NB stops updating.

[nerdgatehobbit]

13 Books

Right, I was tagged by @old-man-ghost a few days ago and I'm finally getting around to doing this!

1: The last book I read: Disney Princess: Beyond the Tiara, which was an interesting look at the involved films and their impact. It was self-congratulatory at places, but I think that's the trade-off for it being an official book.

2: A Book I recommend: Dinotopia by James Gurney, between the gorgeous art, the inventive world-building, and the great characters. The franchise as a whole is one of my favorites, but this is the book that started it all.

3: A book that I couldn't put down: I read the first nine a while back, but I really enjoyed the first volume of Spy x Family. I need to get around to reading the tenth & eleventh volumes.

5: A book on my TBR: In addition to the aforementioned duo and quite a few other books, I'm waiting until I'm further into The Librarians as a show before I read the 3 tie-in novels.

6: A book I've put down: This isn't probably what's meant, but it's the only recent example. Over a month ago, I checked out The Secret Life of the American Musical from the library specifically to just skim it to get a clearer grasp of the different types of songs in Broadway musicals. Though I did spot its section acknowledging the issues of relying on star power for musicals, which seems relevant to what went on with the Sweeney Todd revival.

7: A book on my wish list: This one is kinda silly, but I am curious about Ash's Atlas, it's just that I've been reluctant to seriously look into getting it because I know it's very likely not be a pseudo-guidebook, and more likely just acts to recap anime events. I'd like a Pokémon book that does more with discussing the geography, history, man-built places, & notable people.

8: A favorite book from childhood: I'm going to go for Midnight for Charlie Bone, the first in the Children of the Red King series. I didn't get to read them all as a kid, but the first few I definitely did. I still have a soft spot for this series, though the older I get the more I wish for a perspective flip novel(s) showing what the adults were getting up to, as it's very clear that they're getting up to stuff off-page in addition to what Charlie and his friends see. I'm definitely anxious about how the potential upcoming TV adaptation will turn out.

9: A book you would give to a friend: Hmm, it would depend on the friend's tastes. Maybe I'd be selfish and give them the Project Gutenberg link to Once on a Time just so I'd have someone to talk about it with. It's one of my favorite books (it definitely can be seen as a precursor to The Princess Bride and Galavant).

10: The most books you own by a single author: It's probably a toss-up between Tamora Pierce and Rick Riordan. Both of them are well into the double digits.

11: A nonfiction book you own: I have Team of Rivals, which is a really interesting look at how Abraham Lincoln got elected and then turned the other candidates into his cabinet during the Civil War.

12: What are you currently reading: I've only read the prologue to the Belle Mirrorverse manga, but I liked it. I'm pretty much just here for the BATB content (as seen by me currently having Funko Belle as my icon), as I didn't play the game for long. This says more about my minimal gaming skills than the game itself (no, seriously, I struggle with LEGO & Pokémon at times). I am curious how this altered story will play out.

13: What are you planning on reading next: I still need to reread Sense and Sensibility, especially as I keep meaning to locate the new movie (I like the gifs I've seen, I just need to find the time/energy to figure out how to temporarily get Hallmark access so I can watch it).

I'm on desktop at the moment and don't have a readily accessible current photo of any of my bookshelves. I'll try to remember to do something later and add it in a reblog when I'm on my phone.

This was fun, thanks for tagging me!

I'll tag @asokatanos @magic-owl @jadelotusflower @mylittleredgirl

@ladytharen @bex-pendragon @fantasysci5 and anyone else who'd like to do it!

[t1meslayer]

Busy with important family events over the next couple of days, and so I thought it would be good to get a day-and-date release for this Debrief on the latest entry in my Sapphic Valley series, "How You Get The Girl." Be sure to read the story before jumping in!

Did you do it? Did you read the story?

Alright, I'm trusting you. Go ahead and hit that 'Keep Reading' button you scamp.

It only seems appropriate to start this Debrief off by addressing the elephant in the room. I haven't posted anything in over a month, and "By Moonlight" came about a month after its predecessor, the conclusion to "Stone-Cold Lovers."

Work, naturally, has been a major factor.

You can see me talk about that almost two weeks ago in this Tumblr post I made about writing in a coffee shop, which came weeks after I actually started writing during a trip to a friend's house.

===

Side note:

Just wanted to take a moment and acknowledge my beautiful Haley and Emily keychains. My friend who's responsible for the affairs of one ghostly farmer named Jizzabelle (Gisabelle to the laymen) got them for me! Only appropriate after I commissioned some art of her and Abigail.

Emily was my first Stardew wife, and Haley currently holds the biggest place in my heart. They make a lovely duo!

And I'll avoid any sister-wife jokes

===

While I've had some other projects like Zine writing to take care of, work and life can't explain the full absence.

The best way I can think to explain things is that:

I had the general writer's block, and

Despite the best intentions and advice of my irl friends and online pals like @alchemicallymoon and @duelbraids, I couldn't force myself to "break" that block by just... Writing something else.

This is entirely the result of my own psychosis. I have a tendency to carefully plot things out and impose a timetable that really doesn't need to exist. When I feel the cause is righteous enough, it's hard to get around that. In this case, I knew I needed to get my poll-winning idea out after dawdling for holidays like Valentine's Day, and then I knew I only wanted to post one more story before jumping on a very special event for my upcoming 30th AO3 post.

Thus, here we are: arbitrarily forcing myself into a spiral of writer's block misery because of a silly promise on Tumblr and my own sense of ordered chaos.

At the very least, this meant it's coming out not long after my AO3 pal InsertACatchyPennameHere also emerged from the woodwork to tell me they're working on something INSPIRED by my four-person friend group farm adaptations.

Much love to them, wherever they may be.

I'll probably start writing more eclectically now that my shoulders are unweighed, but don't expect my next publication to hit until I'm finished working on teasing the big event. All you Pokemon fans better get hype!

And oh how sweet this publication feels. Between my great set of recent ceramics, the figure drawing class I've been attending, and creative writing, I've felt more fulfilled than ever.

You're here to talk about Stardew, though. So let us talk.

This idea began less with any one event as it did a desire to advance the Alexis/Haley relationship, and Haley's characterization in particular. It was always going to end with watercolor painting reference, but 2 Willow Lane was what I really wanted to dig into.

As I see it, a lot of what keeps people invested in Stardew when its comfy vibes becoming routine is the air of mystery in Eric Barone's worldbuilding. Haley and Emily's parents being some world-traveling duo who left their home in the siblings' care for who knows how long (and who knows how many times over their lifetime) really piqued my interest. So much so that the new writing challenge I set for myself in "How You Get The Girl" was crafting a particularly long set of descriptions that emphasize how overwhelming the parents' influence feels — without creating an impenetrable wall of text.

Hopefully I succeeded in that. Let me know!

I tried to include some vaguely real world-adjacent references into that description of the house, as happens with the magical-realism world of Stardew Valley. For example:

The computer sitting next to their bonsai tree is an iMac G3, the kind of old 'futuristic' tech that my dad loves!

A Speedwell refrigerator is based on even more vintage tech, the Mayflower fridge, but named after a different ship ridden by Pilgrims coming to America.

That city that the family visited in an old photograph with a "monument of arching, interlocking steel" is, of course, Paris — with the statue bookends referencing any number of statues in the Louvre.

Haley's FAD magazine could be referencing any number of publications, but Vogue is probably the closest analogue to what I imagine her reading.

Furthermore, I took some notes on describing the home's layout off of my sister's apartment building, and I asked my bestie @trybard for input on what kind of hanging plant should be used in the transitional hallway. Hanging pothos, philodendron, and spider plants were the three options provided, and my response was appropriate:

They know so much about plants.

Go bug them about it.

I drew on other friends' knowledge to help decorate the house. Specifically, I asked one of my witchiest friends what kinds of protective wards someone like Emily would leave around doorways and windows. She had... A lot of reference material.

I picked Hazel given it purportedly "protects against evil; encourages abundance and inspiration." I also picked Amethyst as one of Emily's loved gifts, one that purportedly "absorbs negative energy, promotes harmony."

My witchy friend is the same one who provided the TikTok that I referenced in my advertisement post:

Perhaps the most important thing about 2 Willow Lane was the recurring motif of Barbie's Dream House.

As a surface-level reference, I think the groundwork is clear. Blondie's love of fashion and general queen bee demeanor fits comparisons to Barbie well, and she lives in a big ol' house full of stuff. We all saw Greta Gerwig's Barbie movie last year. It's still in the cultural zeitgeist.

I'm hip with the kids.

Yet, early on I also tried to make it clear that if this is a "dream" house, it's neither Haley's nor Emily's dream. Haley is a Barbie in that stereotypical sense, but also there's much to be mined from the analogy of a sort of powerless doll in an immutable house, constrained by social obligation to her family rather than literal plastic and stickers.

The cold open of Jodi and Sam was meant to stand alone, but in execution I also think drawing Kent's absence into the conversation makes for a more thematically rich comparison to these sisters who appear to have themselves more put together.

My beta reader said this wound up being one of my stronger stories because of how all of that intertwined, which I appreciated given how down on myself I was following the whole writer's block thing.

But also.

Also.

Alexis gets to be horny. She's hitting on lonely MILFs and watching girls shake their asses to the tune of bad reality TV.

We love a buff dommy mommy farm girl in this house.

Haley is probably horny too, she just doesn't realize it yet. For now I think it's fun enough to play into her being coy about building excuses for Alexis to come over, and then getting incensed when Emily barges in on their private time meant to learn more about this farm girl she just can't get out of her head.

===

Fun fact:

Every story in this series is named after a Taylor Swift song, but I know next-to nothing about her discography. All of them are suggestions by my friend whose house I was at when starting this story — the same one who controls Gardenia on the farm.

While I went with "How You Get The Girl," her alternative suggestion was "The Man."

===

All that w|w talk aside, I also want to give Sam the loveable idiot a shoutout. Had to do a fair bit of research into how skateboards are constructed for his failed ollie, and I slipped in a reference to shitty old technology that's exclusively for my beta reader to enjoy.

I also tried doing some agricultural research to figure out how the folks at Kevin Farm could have grown cucumbers so there'd be a jar of legitimate pickles... But that was getting too in the weeds.

Insert laugh track here

Decided to just go with pickled artichoke hearts to save everyone a lot of trouble.

And where does "Kevin Farm" come from, you may be asking yourself. Or the fabulous "Kevin's Special" with its definitely not innuendo tagline.

That story will have to wait for another day, my friends.

[neerons]

Thank you for your reply ❤️ Your analyses are always so interesting to read, so I couldn't help but ask for your opinion 😆

Don't worry about the length of your reply! We're talking about MK, so of course there are a lot of things to explain and analyze! As you said, we can only have suppositions for his upcoming season. But I wanted to know your predictions for Kazuomi's development!

The MC understands and respects Kazuomi's boundaries, so yes, she will wait for him to open up when the right time comes. She is the woman of his dreams and his soulmate who wants the best for him.

We don't have the details about Kazuomi's past yet. That's why it's a little hard to say for the moment, but we can guess one thing or two. Like we did for Yuzu and his brother, or for Kei and the revelation of his past. Well, for Kei, we couldn't have known he'd been traumatized more than once in the past, and that the revelation with Caleb was the worst 😅 But we knew it would leave an impact on the characters and on us too. Our precious little Kei needs therapy...

In the case of Kazuomi, yes, we don't have more information about his mother. For me, he didn't feel loved because even though she was the only one who showed him affection, he later realized she might not have truly loved him, and only saw his father in him. It's not like she did something in particular for Kazuomi to feel betrayed by her. It's more like this conclusion of his made him realize that he was indeed alone and not loved (as he feared). Also, his mother might have truly loved him at some point, but he couldn't have guess it because his mother was always yearning for his father's love. I don't think Kazuomi hated his mother. He loved her but doubted her affection towards him. One thing's for sure, yes, he hated his father and his mundane and lonely life too.

Kazuomi and the MC's love for each other is so beautiful. I love them so much and I believe in eternal love for these two 🥰 It's an otome game so we won't be disappointed!

Yes, the real Kazuomi is vulnerable, lonely and has many fears. His real personality is weaker than the one he shows in public and to his loved ones. This man has many layers and maintains a poker face to hide his weakness (the fact that he's stuck in the past). We say that behind every smile and laughter, there is deep pain and sadness. That's unfortunately true for Kazuomi.

As for the MC, when I said I wanted her to find the truth, I was referring to the first possible outcome you talked about. I think there will be a mission related to his past, similar to Kei and Yuzu's stories. Of course, even if at some point the MC will find the truth (through an investigation or because of someone), I want Kazuomi to talk about his past and share his feelings with the MC. Whether it will happen in the SHE, or after an unexpected event in his story (like you said in your second possible outcome). I said I wanted to see more sweet moments between these two, didn't I? 🤭

I think Kazuomi's next season could be similar to Kei's latest stories. I mean, it's how the main plots of MK are written. We'll see that soon with Yuzu's upcoming story!

I've also never been disappointed by the stories from MK. I'll be satisfied as long as the story remains coherent, logical and well-written (don't give me unexplained developments or unnecessary information). Well, Seiichi was indeed the exception 🥲

Besides, whatever the writer will give us, I know I'll love the "real" Kazuomi. He's afraid to disappoint us (the MC and the players). He's afraid we'll stop loving him after knowing the truth, but I know I won't. I already knew, since his season 1, that he has many layers (different aspects of his personality), and many secrets he keeps hidden (he's mysterious and complex after all). He is much more than what he shows us. There have always been hints since his season 1. Also, to be honest, the Kazuomi I love the most is the "real" Kazuomi that we can see throughout his story (especially in his POV and in the VIP events/VIP room).

Don't worry, I don't think it means that Kazuomi will drastically change or that the Kazuomi we know is fake. Everything we know and see about him is also a part of himself (the Kazuomi he wants to be and the Kazuomi people want to see). He's just more complex and deeper than that. He will always be the charismatic and extravagant Resort King we all love. The only difference will be the fact that now, he can be himself (the real Kazuomi) around the MC and his friends. He will be truly happy in his life, after dealing with his past. It will be similar to Kei and Yuzu's stories. It will also take some time like the other two, but I think it's the kind of stories MK want to tell. The 3S are dangerous and fearless men, but they also hide a painful and traumatic past. Deep down, they are children who need to be understood and accepted, especially by themselves as adults. The 3S have to overcome their past, fears and weaknesses to be truly happy with themselves and in their current life. They will become stronger and their relationships with the MC will too. They found someone who truly loves them for who they are and who accepts their past and current self. They're not alone anymore. The feeling of loneliness and sadness will little by little disappear, and be replaced by love. Love is stronger than anything else, and even if it's painful, it can save them from despair and it will surely make them happier. That's what I think when I'm reading MK.

Regarding JJK, I won't spoil you so don't worry! It's also one of my favorite shonen manga 🥰 Gojo Satoru is not my favorite character, but he's in my top 3! I really like his character, and by that, I mean his personality and his story. I love him as a person (not his strength or his face). To be honest, I was a little disappointed when his face was revealed in the manga. I didn't want him to be this handsome/beautiful. I didn't want the fans to only see Satoru for his strength or his face. Unfortunately, what I feared happened, and now he's one of the most popular anime characters for these two reasons haha.

Thanks again for your amazing analysis! ❤️

PS: Can I send you a DM to talk about Ikemen Prince? I'm curious about this game

Hi, and thank you for the nice compliments!! It's my pleasure to give my opinion if others are interested in it, so you're welcome ❤

I agree with everything you stated. When it comes to Kazuomi's mother, it's possible she didn't do "anything" to voluntarily hurt him. Maybe she even loved him truly, and tried to show him that when she invited him to a picnic full of food she cooked herself for the first time before. What I understood from Kazuomi's PoVs though is mostly that the way she treated him made him feel betrayed deep down.

There was also the fact that I called her his "mother" with quotation marks because it's not 100% sure that she's his actual mother. Kazuomi back then couldn't get his hands on an official document to prove this, but I assume that they didn't imply this in the story for nothing.

That combined with the moment they mentioned how his father was a womanizer who had many mistresses, well, I think it might be announcing something.

If she's not his actual mother, it'd also explain why she also chased after her husband's love more than Kazuomi, her "son". If he's not her real son and she had to accept him, it'd make sense to me if she only played the part of a good mother to him, but didn't care too much.

And Kazuomi looks a lot like his father, so it's possible all of these ingredients together... could lead to a dark recipe. Like she only cared because he was the spitting image of the man she loved but who didn't care about her. I don't remember exactly but Kazuomi might have thought of that himself and I'm only paraphrasing him.

I actually keep having a recurring thought about his past, but I don't know if I'll share it because it's quite somber and if it turns out it's not accurate, I'd feel bad for sharing it haha.

I'm sure I'll love the real Kazuomi as well! I've loved him ever since I started his route years ago, and I'm only excited to know more about who he really is, too! I'm scared in a good type of way, like a sort of anticipation? If that makes sense. I mean... I'd love him even if he was wearing a trash bag though let's be real 🤣🤣

Anyway, I'm excited for whenever his season will come to us, and like you said, I'm sure we won't be disappointed!! Our power couple will make it to the top! In the meantime I'll try to catch up with Yuzu because I keep saying I will and then read something else, or I dive in Kei's endless path towards hell again (although I can finally see the light at the end of this dark path with his recent story 🥺)

About JJK, I know what you mean about Gojo, but to be honest I'm sure most people who like to dive deeper into character analysis will love him for his inner personality and not only for his looks or strength.

The anime and manga do show off his eyes and power enough for everyone to keep only that in mind in general, but many love him for his whole self too like you! Personally I also love everything about him, and his looks are amazing to the point he was (and sometimes still is) my muse at some point and helped me draw more (Sukuna too). JJK in general inspired me to draw more to the point I have a sketch book dedicated to it 😂

And of course you can send me a DM to discuss Ikemen Prince, no problem! It'd be my pleasure if I can help or guide you. It's an amazing game ❤

Thank you for the ask~!

[corsair-news-alliance]

TRANSISTOR: Hello, CORSAIR! After a bit of an interesting time here, we're now opening a new segment for people looking to keep up on the latest gossip and events here aboard our home.

While we're still getting set up, you'll be happy to know that the new Weekly News is run by two of your very own handlers!

HERTZ: It's been a doozy, for sure. We're grateful for the support of Morse and our fellows. Without them, this never would have started up.

TRANSISTOR: Absolutely! And with that, our first segment.

HERTZ: The New Years party kicked off in typical CORSAIR fashion, this time in Hangar 5 and spreading out into the nearby halls. Everyone seemed to be in high spirits!

TRANSISTOR: Morse, as usual, performed her speech with a usual amount of panache, having this to say regarding the upcoming year.

[Audio clip plays]

MORSE:

Shhshhhsshsh ATTENTION EVERYONE!

ATTENTION PLEASE!!!

Okay.... uh, I am very mildly toasted as I yes yes I know, but...

CORSAIR is back, and we get to ring in 5017U in our home

We built her back up. With the help of donations, our own sweat and blood, and.... with spite

So. I'm not going to wax on about our determination or how long we fought for this....

I'll ask us to pour one out for those we lost.

And in CORSAIR Fashion down one for them

We are born in the stories

We are remembered in stories.

TILL LEGENDS BLEED AND HAPPY FUCKING NEW YEAR

WOOOOOOOOOOO!!

[Audio clip ends with drunken cheering]

HERTZ: Ah, our fearless leader. May Morse head us for at least a decade or four.

TRANSISTOR: Or until she decides she's tired of dealing with us all!

[There's a bit of laughter between the twins.]

HERTZ: With that speech out of the way, the party kicked off in full force. By the time morning came, people were hanging from the rafters, cuddled up in mechs, or in Dupont’s case, already smoking and working.

TRANSISTOR: I'd ask if he'd ever take a break, but I don't think that's possible. I don't think he sleeps.

HERTZ: Unlikely. I stayed up for seventy hours, recently and not once did I ever see him go into his room.

TRANSISTOR: What the fuck, Hertz, you need to rest!

HERTZ: [Coughs] Anyway, now that the festivities are out of the way, we're looking forward to a New Year. May this one be much more peaceful than the ones before it. Or at least a little.

TRANSISTOR: Mm. I'll toast to that.

[There's an audible glass clink.]

TRANSISTOR: And that's all for this segment, folks! Remember, drink plenty of water and eat something to stave off those hangovers.

HERTZ: I'm Hertz!

TRANSISTOR: And I'm Transistor!

HERTZ AND TRANSISTOR: And we're wishing everyone a Happy New Year!

WOOO!

//Morse\\

[Joy]

[cyandreamsinwords]

i’m ded. just spent two days reading from start to finish. I’m gonna bill you for all the tears I shed. Free Lyra my girl she deserves happiness 😭. You’ve taken this premise and just spun a whole new life in it. I’m in awe at just how well you’ve written everything. Given us a whole new glimpse at this universe and i’m just sat waiting. Ngl my butt is clenched for the upcoming book. Everything so far has gone canon but do you have plans for it to stick to it or will Lyra make potentially live saving waves 👀.

also the slow burn is delicious and so good i was kicking my feet and giggling at the scene of them just dancing in the shrieking shack, it was such a sweet moment. Part of me just wants to flip to the epilogue where they’re all happy but i know the slow burn will be so worth it. I do wonder how Harry will go about it, I didn’t realize because he’s so awkward but he’s actually quite forward, at least when he decides on something, as we’ve seen with Cho and Ginny 🙈🙈🙈. Lyra strikes me as the shy one.

Also Marie is me, she’s my spirit animal.

thank you so much for dedicating the time to write, fanfic is such a labour of love and i just want to say i deeply appreciate you (and your memes lol)

I'm so happy to hear you've enjoyed the story so far and that you took the time to tell me so. Fanfiction really is a labor of love, at first just for yourself, so hearing that others take joy in my work and see how much goes into it is so rewarding. It really means the world to fic writers when we get comments like this ❤️ And I'm lucky that I've gotten such lovely people reading mine who say such nice things.

As for your question regarding how much the story is going to deviate from cannon, I don't want to spoil anything (I know all eyes are on the end of Order of the Phoenix), but I'll go into why it's been so cannon compliant up to this point -- not really what you asked for, but I love to take a chance to ramble 😉.

Something I didn't want to do with Lyra was introduce her to fix all the problems in the books. In some cases, I want her to make them worse, because that's naturally going to happen when you add in a new factor, and it opens things up to more interesting scenarios. I also didn't want to attach her to Harry's story from the get-go, outside of their underlying connection, because I wanted this to be primarily Lyra's story and her take on things. So, a lot of events happen as they did in the books because there isn't a lot of interference. It's why she barely interacts with Harry for the few two arcs, and they are more her account of those events from a distance. As we go forward though and she does start becoming more directly intwined with the story's plot through her proximity to Harry, big to small things may or may not change--for better or worse.

The dancing scenes were some of my favorites to plot and write in the last arc, and I've loved the positive reaction to them. I worried they were a bit too self-indulgent, but they were such sweet little treat after all that angst and yelling they were doing, and a fun way for them to get to know each other better. I love awkward and blunt Harry, but I also love oblivious Harry just as much, especially when he's all three at once. It's really going to be a race between the two to see which one of them figures it out first. A second race will be held to determine who makes the first move.

[thatgirlinskullz]

okay, watched one episode, and i have a bunch of small AND BIG nitpicks/complaints about the atla live action so far.. but after you survive the first completely unnecessary 20 minutes where Aang's line reads are super awkward and very exposition heavy, he flies for some fkin reason (what about Zaheer being the first in hundreds of years to do so????), and which changes why Aang left the air temple and how he gets frozen in ice (which completely changes the significance and weight of him leaving, aka "running away", which he doesn't actually do here), the rest of the first episode is... kinda okay?

yeah the opening intro animation is horrendous ps3 level animation imo. the first 20 minutes are not needed and change way too much, messes with the weight of Aang's actions and the events that occur at the air temple, Appa looks a little too grimy for my taste, the costumes are waaay to clean and brand new-looking, the bending animation quality varies a lot and feels a little off at times (especially earth bending imo) and Gran Gran basically just recites the original opening's words for some fkin reason???, but other than that it's... okay?

I was most scared about Sokka being unfunny and losing his personality with all the rumors about how they changed him, but he's actually pretty much the same - but yeah, his sexism is toned down pretty much to 0.5 (there's still a little bit of it if you pay attention but it's not even close to the original, which btw i still think was a super dumb move to remove but watever)

i watched the first episode on netflix so i did give them some support with my view, but idk if i'll continue there or.. khm.. elsewhere.. i want to like this show, i want to enjoy it, i want to give it a chance because it's a story that is worth being told for newer generations too, and i want the young cast to succeed, because i do see potential, but i still feel very weird about the whole project. i feel like they wanted to improve on an already amazing product that didn't need improving in the first place, and all the changes that i've seen so far are ranging from meh to horrible. so i'm not sure if i'll finish the whole thing, or where i'll finish it IF i do..

i am glad that a lot of people are enjoying it tho. and i don't mean to rain on anyone's parade. if you like it, good for you, enjoy. spread the word about WHY you like it.... and maybe encourage people to check out the original too?

my only hope in this is that the live action will get more people interested in atla overall, and more people will watch the original, AND korra, and interest in future atla projects will grow so the upcoming (actually canon) movies and shows can succeed.

anyway, that's my two cents for now..

[wonderland-productions-blog]

Knight in Dulled Armor: Ch. 9

Chapter 9: Asterian Emergency

Tw: Written Blood/ Mild Gore

Word Count: ~6,500

The tavern today is packed; with lots of people traveling in advance for the upcoming summer events in the surrounding cities. Many see it as an inexpensive alternative to larger residencies in the cities, while some prefer staying at a bar over monasteries or abbeys while traveling. 

I've been running food and drinks all day as well as managing the hygienic aspects of my job. With so much to do, I could certainly use more help but Hidorah could only do so much between cooking orders. I still haven't talked to him about Braiewood, and he seems to be avoiding me because of such.

Marietta was supposed to be here an hour ago, and she doesn't seem like the type to sleep in. Things have been difficult without her but I feel as though I've been waiting long enough. I go to talk to Kenrik who'd been helping manage tasks as well. "Kenrik, is there any way we can know if Marietta is coming in today?" I ask

"Well, she usually walks here with Hidorah. If she were sick he'd know, but he says she wasn't at home this morning. Might just have to send a search party." Kenrik explains. He lets out a whistle, calling for Kyzu. I see the dog jump out from Kenrik's room in the basement, settling beside him. "Do we have anything that has her scent? Bet Kyzu could find her real quick." he pauses, and I use the time to tell him that I have one of her uniforms. 

"Though, I'll want someone to go with, can't have Kyzu gettin' lost again." he continues.

There's a moment of silence while Kenrik decides on a plan. He strokes the stubble on his face and clears his throat, "Hidorah!". 

"Huh?" He asks, leaning on the kitchen door frame. 

"Would you two figure out who's going to stay here and who's going to find Marietta?" Kenrik asked us.

"As much as I'd love to go get Marietta myself, I'm not too inclined to do so with something that took a chunk out of me at one point," Hidorah says, glancing down at Kyzu. 

"I need to hold down the tavern at least somewhat, it’s a lot of work for anyone, let alone Kenrik. I wouldn't want to force my workload on him. We could stop taking food orders and just bartend, right?" I reason with them. Honestly, I didn't feel comfortable taking Kyzu alone and only held a small desire to keep to the tavern. 

At this point I see Kenrik lose interest and resort back to tending the bar. Despite the new bit of space between us, Hidorah decides to inch closer to me still.

"That's true, but I think Marietta would appreciate you going to find her more than she would appreciate me doing so," Hidorah says, putting his arm around my shoulder. He punctuates this with a squeeze to attempt to sway me.

"Why? Would she not appreciate a criminal stopping her and bringing her into work?" I spout, quickly shoving a hand over my mouth. I shake him off of me, crossing my arms, yet still keeping my chest compressed and posture low. I ease out a breath, exhausted at the idea of having this conversation now.

"Okay, I see what this is about. I get that it was super sketchy of me to run after seeing you with my wanted poster," Hidorah says, reaching his hands out toward me.

"Glad we both acknowledge your sketchy and borderline incriminating behavior. What do I owe you to admit that?" I dig further. 

"Listen, it is a long story but I assure you that if it will ease your mind I'll tell you. Tonight. Let's please focus on getting through this shift without Marietta right now. I am not in the mood to get reprimanded from Kenrik." Hidorah pleads though I say nothing. "Okay, what if I get Marietta? I can tell you don't want to be the one to go, and that's okay." He says.

I shrug, wasting no time fetching her uniform and tossing it to him. He leaves with Kyzu, giving me a wave as a send-off. I doubt it would take much time at all, Marietta most likely was just late after some early morning errands. Hidorah will probably run into her already on her way to work. 

I keep up with drinks and cleaning at tables and booths while Kenrik runs the crowded bar. While they were gone we'd told customers notice of no chef being on duty at the moment, and most didn't have an issue with waiting until they returned. That is, except for one man truly set on having lunch here. Luckily Kenrik recognized him when I explained his concerns. He was a regular and meant it when he told us he had no other means of eating based on where he was staying and his work schedule.

Kenrik humored the man he considered to be a good friend and took an exception to the no-order rule. While I appreciated witnessing this kind act, it did mean that I had to man the bar as well as my usual area. For a short time, I'd been manning an entire tavern by myself with the sense of accomplishment peaking above the large amount of effort it took to do so.

Running back and forth between sections of the tavern was stressful, doing my best to memorize drink orders, run them out, take empty glasses, and clean tables. Though there were other tasks I only needed to do once or twice in the growing timeframe such as sweeping and washing empty glasses. 

Kenrik finally arrived from within the kitchen, setting the food down at the counter. I wipe my brow with my uniform collar, push on, and head back to my booths. I decide to take a small break to dispose of trash and maybe get a bit of wind to cool me down. After dumping the trash into the larger container behind the tavern I head back onto the patio. I lean over a wooden beam, letting out a sigh as pressure releases from my sternum. 

My quiet rest only lasted a moment before sound erupted from the desert. I hastily turn my neck, seeing a large black smudge in my vision like an ink thumbprint smeared at the corner of a page. I fling my arm up to an erratic wave, seeing several silhouettes on the horizon, and excited to know my remaining day was about to get easier.  

 I couldn't be more wrong. The more seconds passed the closer they were bounding toward me, unleashing a tremendous foreboding feeling settling within my gut. Something is wrong, though I won't know fully until they arrive. I wait with bated breath until they reach the porch.

A panicked flurry whips around us, shouting from Hidorah and Marietta blending together into a cacophony of meaningless noise. "What is going on?!" I shout, both of them quickly looking at me while on either side of Kyzu. Marietta grabs Kyzu's neck, pulling her over to turn her side toward me.

A hefty shining mass sat on the large dog’s back. Two metal gloves enveloped the beast’s neck, desperately clinging to it despite heavy shaking emanating from them. Val sat hunched over the back of the beast, seemingly weak and fatigued. A rickety string of breaths echoed from his helm. His armor seemed glossier than usual, though it seemed strange to have such old damaged armor waxed.

That was when I saw it, the gloss slowly running down the armor. A drop tapered off, dripping onto the dry sand beneath. Red. I felt my heart sink, trying to muster up something before panic consumed me entirely. "Get him inside!" I yell, pulling on Kyzu to make his way through the doors. 

"Elaine, do you care if we put him in your room? I need to treat him." Marietta says with a panic in her eyes. I nod my head, following close behind. 

"On the bed, quick," I say, making an attempt to steady the situation. Everyone does their best to support his weight before setting him on the bed with a small thud. "Aghh. Please..." Val gasps. 

"I'm sorry! What-" I try to say, but Marietta cuts me off.

"We need to get his armor off. I need to see the wound, I've narrowed it down to his torso." She explains. 

"Your torso?" I ask Val, a worried expression plaguing my face. 

He does nothing but give me a weak nod and further grip my bedsheets. 

"We'll need to sit you up to get your chest plate off, won't we?" I ask, putting my hand behind his head to support it.

I am met with another weak nod. 

"Hidorah, sit him up, will you?" Marrietta asks flatly, the small jumps in her voice showing much more than what her calm tone indicates. 

He does so immediately, doing nothing to warn or brace Val for what is happening. My eyelids lock shut for a moment at the thunderous, grunt-like sound that followed. I spare no time to squeeze behind him and begin to unfasten his chest plate. I attempt to pull it off on one side with the shoulder plates now clanking against the gauntlets. I pull one off, revealing scuffed and stained dark leather gloves. I hastily make my way to the other side and do the same.

They clatter to the wood floor and I couldn't care less. I'm fairly sure Marrietta didn't squander this time and was rounding up her medical supplies. Hidorah on the other hand seems to be waiting for instructions. "Tell Kenrik what is happening, I'm sure he'll want to know," I tell him, making sure to look him in the eyes as I say it.

I finally am able to slide off the chest plate, trying not to nudge him so much so that it would evoke pain or discomfort. I take the armor to the corner so that it won't become a tripping hazard since we'll need to move often. I come back, finally noticing the gray long-sleeve tunic he wore. It stretched tight across his large chest, a part of it clearly wet and dark around his left side. It clung to his torso, the warm blood slowly seeping through more and more. My shaky hands scaled both sides of his shirt until finally slipping under the lip. I position myself more evenly in front of him, having to nestle against him between his spread legs. 

I never accounted for him being such a large man, seeing how small I look compared to his colossal frame. Even with him sitting down I was still only around eye level with him now.  His shirt fabric scrunches as I lift it up to reveal the wound. Not wanting him to need to lift his arms in his condition, I stretch the base of his shirt behind his helm at the nape of his neck. I’m careful not to tear the fabric on the horns that protruded from his helm. This provided us with enough area to work as well as kept his arms in place and covered. I am faced with the body I'd seen in the bathhouse days prior. A scarred, evergreen complexioned skin on a built frame yet again met me in poor conditions.

I start to stutter out an apology upon seeing him stare at me through the slit in his helm, "I'm, I'm sorry, I feel awful about vi-violating your privacy, even if it's an emerge-" He cuts me off, grabbing my hand. His leather gloves were obviously softer than his gauntlets, so I’m not sure why I now feel so surprised by his warm touch. 

"You're very quick. And gentle. Thank you." He says through gritted teeth, struggling to maintain such a soft-spoken tone.

Without any notice, Marietta grabs my wrist and guides me to the side to make room. She pushes him back, Val now lying on my bed propped on a couple of pillows. A gasp escapes him, though his wound is much more visible now. I see her search the wound, most likely examining for an exit wound, debris, and possible cause. 

Her brow furrows, "I need space to work, this wound is deep, and penetrates further into the abdomen, possibly into an organ." I take her advice and leave the room, my hands shaking and suddenly cold. 

I do my best to start sweeping again as if I wasn't occupied with more dire matters moments ago. A hand on my shoulder startles me, "Elaine, look around. I closed the tavern. Those who are still drinking can finish up and leave, the only ones who need to be here are staff and people who rented a room." Kenrik explained. "We'll open back up once things are handled, alright?" he assures me, and I nod. 

I take a seat next to Hidorah at the bar, settling in to wait. He looks just as anxious, his fingers running through his hair as his other hand supports his head. He nudges his elbow on the countertop, hunching lower to the bar. "Are you that nervous?" I ask. 

"About Val? A bit, but I have a lot on my mind right now." Hidorah says, turning his head to face me. His hand pressed against his cheek, squishing his face and causing one eye to squint. I purse my lips, getting ready to speak but holding off. My mouth shuts, not wanting to press further.

“Do you think there’s any chance you could heal him?” I grimly ask, already knowing the answer.

“I’ve been trying to heal everything from bruises and burns to cuts on me and my friends. Nothing is working. I think my body produced just enough magic to heal me in a panic.” he sadly explains.

"I think we'll have a bit of time while Marietta is... busy, with Val, so to speak. Trying to stabilize him. So, why not break the tension? It’s not like it’s not a good time for it, better to pile it on and get it over with. That way we'll at least be able to face each other at work after this." Hidorah tells me. He takes his head out of his hand and sits up at the counter. 

"Alright, well. Get to explaining then, I'm sure it’s a very long and very reasonable story as to why your face was plastered all over old wanted posters in Braiewood. Somewhere you should not be if you were a fugitive of sorts, and then proceeded to run when you saw that I had one of said wanted posters." I say to him.

"Okay, well. Luckily you're right. As usual, Elaine. You see, I actually have like, the best reasoning there is. But first..." He paused, looking at me with a smile and placing a hand on my back, "Could you pour me a drink?" 

I scoff, getting up regardless. I uncork a small, blue bottle of wine, not wanting anything that could debilitate him in small amounts. To my surprise, it pours a light blue into the tall thin glass I've set out. It was reminiscent of some of the berries Hidorah had served me during the apology breakfast he’d made me. 

He takes a sip, "Ahh,". 

"Hidorah," I say, eager with him to get on with the story. 

"I know, I know. Alright. Let's start from the beginning I suppose. Of my criminal record, I mean," Hidorah says, rubbing the base of his neck over his shoulder. I let him continue, giving him a nod. 

"I had made a living exporting Elven goods into very profitable areas, elven culture, and tourist shops in large, wealthy cities. My cut was enough for me to live very comfortably, but I was a bit reckless with money. I was barely out of my teenage years and at the time this was completely legal. The issue was that, eventually, many elven cities closed their doors, with the nation of Braiewood at the front lines of this embargo." He says coldly.

"What would cause a large elven empire to just... stop the exporting of their goods? Close their border like that. Braiewood used to hold a booming economy just a few years ago, didn't it? It was very well respected, was it not?" I ask, wondering if the book I'd gotten would touch on the subject. 

"Oh, I don't know. Say, the disappearance of an important Aramooran political figure with evidence tracing back to elven goods?" He says, creating a tension so thick in the air you could cut it with a knife.

"Hidorah, did you kidnap someone?!" I say, whispering with panic in my voice. 

"What? No! Do you remember when I mentioned Marietta's family history?" 

"Yeah, that she was a pri-" I stop. That she was a princess. Hidorah chuckled as he saw the pieces click together in my mind. Hidorah had sold products to Aramoor, Marietta's home kingdom. This product was left as "evidence" in her home when she had gone missing, not because she was kidnapped, but because Marietta had become increasingly restless in her place with inherited fame and fortune. 

She emancipated herself and became a baroness through her own work, as she'd mentioned to us before. Because of her disappearance, the blame was placed on someone of elven origin. With Marietta still working here and this embargo still in place, the already fragile state between the two nations had divided further. 

"So, were you alone tried for her disappearance as the exporter of the found evidence?" I ask.

"No, my name was thrown around but there wasn't substantial evidence of my presence, and for good reason. I had only met her a few times, and it was in her city and we kept our interactions short and sweet, despite my fascination with her. I was actually tried for the illegal exportation of elven goods and they stacked some issue regarding immigration status on there too." Hidorah said, now refusing to make eye contact.

"So you continued exporting despite the trade restriction? Makes sense if it was your only income. Wait, hold on, fascination?" I ask.

"Well, as I mentioned before, they also got me for my immigration status. While I continued selling product, even with the law change, I often stayed outside of Braiewood. I figured since I was out so much I'd stop paying my rent and would find a place back in Braiewood once I finished my large inventory. I'd sell what I had, then be done with it and find a different job. Since I no longer had a residency in Braiewood and had cut my lease just before the embargo, by new elven laws, I was no longer allowed in my own city. Still, since I was for some reason claimed as the owner of a legal business, I was allowed within Elven territory on business terms, now only supposed to sell within the area." He pauses, taking a moment to breathe. 

"As for the fascination aspect, I started staying at the tavern most nights. Not because it was cheap or in a good location, I mean, look at this place. It was because while I was still selling in Amoora shortly after the embargo, I asked Marietta where she was staying to keep a roof over her head. After all, I'd picked up on who she was at this point. No one without enough coin to fill a pool would stop every other day to buy expensive exported goods. She said she was working and living here for the time being. I sold everything as fast as I could. The tavern seemed like the perfect place to stay if I couldn't be in Braiewood."

"It must have been strange for her to reside in a nation she no longer meant anything to for so long." I pin the thought for later, "So, are you allowed in Braiewood or not?" I ask, drawing attention back to the topic.

"I'm pretty sure I'm just not allowed long-term residency, but their laws are confusing." He sighs.

"It sounds like it, I actually just got a book that goes over things like this. We could take a further look to see if there are any loopholes to get you back there if you want. It's just in my bag... that is in my room." I say, fading into nothing toward the end. Never mind, I suppose. 

"Well, honestly, that is a pretty good reason to be wanted but still in the city. But... why did you run when you saw me?" I ask with still one question lingering in the air. 

"Oh, yeah, I'll admit I panicked on that one. Last I saw you, you were upset at me because I kind of chucked something at your head. It seemed like you might have followed me to Braiewood, and the wanted poster in your hand as you sat in the window solidified that fear. I ran, thinking were stalking me. But when I came back later I heard from Kenrik you left on your own and had no way of knowing where I was going." Hidorah confesses.

"Huh, an interesting coincidence with both of us heading to Braiewood and me finding an old wanted poster on the ground. Well, I'm really glad that's cleared up, I wasn't looking forward to working with a convict." I scoffed. 

He nods, the silence settling in once more between us. Even with our own discourse addressed, thoughts of Val's condition slipped into my mind. We'd been talking for a while, but still no sign from Marietta that it was okay to answer. There wasn't much to do but wait, I feel guilty trying to entertain myself in an attempt to ease my mind of worry. Hidorah offers me a drink, and I debate having one to steady my nerves. "It'll do you some good, loosen up. Marietta was able to heal that massive wound that Kyzu calls a nibble on me and Val's wound is nothing compared to what mine was. Val is a big, tough guy. He gets wounds like this fairly often in his line of work." He tells me, already pouring a drink. 

"So all we really can do is wait, isn't it? I mean, Marietta will treat him until he either stabilizes or..."  I say, trailing off. 

The waiting was some of the worst I'd ever had to go through. The tension, the nerves, the thoughts of Marietta treating Val. I shake the last from my mind, refusing to admit that this bothered me. A selfish, nonsensical thought. She was much more qualified than I was to treat him, I barely had any reason to be worried. We hardly know one another, Marietta knows him much better than I do on every account. I set my head on the counter, feeling a weight heavy on my shoulders. My eyelids flutter open and shut, eventually succumbing to the exhausting feeling.

I wake up my name being yelled across the tavern, having to unbury my head cradled in my arms on the counter. Marrietta stood in my open doorframe in bloodied clothes. "I don't think I'll be able to get him stabilized." She says in a monotone expression. 

"What are you doing in here? Take all the time you need, I-" I try to continue, but she cuts me off. "Val says he wants to speak to you. He's been pressing it. Apparently, I need to leave the room for a moment. I examined the wound and on every account, it looks fatal, it's amazing that he wasn't dead when I found him on my way to the store this morning. Go." She says, maintaining the composure in her voice but not her face. She discreetly wipes a forming tear from the corner of her eye.

I step into my room, closing the door behind me. I approach him from the edge of my bed, standing over his weak, now pale body. "Elaine, I was near Asterian territory when this happened. A guard saw me and questioned my reasonings for being there.” He tells me before falling silent. Val sucks in raspy breath, his helm making it sound all the more hollow. 

“I told him I was passing through the area when I was then asked about you. I said nothing, but he claimed your disappearance could be linked to me. After I was uncooperative in being detained I was attacked, and my horse fled." Val says.

"Val, I'm so sorry, I didn't mean for this to happen. I have no idea how-" He cuts me off, his helm turning toward me after saying this. 

"You have no idea how they've connected us? You have no contact with your family?" He asks.

"No, the only way they'd know is if someone had recognized me with you in the area and told them directly," I say, trying to assure him.

"Elaine, even if I survive this, no one here is safe. I was attacked with no evidence toward me. If they find the tavern they'll burn it to the ground. We need to take preventative measures. I wouldn't want to force your hand back into a dangerous family, but know the tavern comes first." He cuts through.

"No, I understand. There was no way for me to emancipate myself under Asterian law, it was selfish to assume I'd be able to start new with no effort to find me and I'm so sorry for dragging you into this. I wouldn't even be alive without you, and you've been so kind to me throughout my time here..." My voice breaks apart, and I feel tears rolling down my cheeks. I desperately wipe them away, trying to pull myself together.

"No, don't cr-" Val jumps into the conversation, sitting up in my bed. He lets out a grunt before continuing. "Don't cry." a thinly gloved hand wrapped itself around both of mine gently. I feel him attempt to squeeze, with nothing more than a muted grasp shining through. He collapses back to lying down. My heart aches to see him so weak. 

"I don't want this to happen, but I don't think I have a choice, Elaine," he says, glancing down at his torso. He stops for a moment, his breath so soft I can no longer tell if it’s there. I can't see his eyes to determine if he's fighting sleep, sending me into a light panic. I wait a moment, with him giving no indication if he is asleep. Then another, still nothing. Anxiety builds when I still can't monitor his breathing, I finally decide to take a step.

I put my ear against his chest, bracing one hand on his uninjured waist side and the other on his chest. I shift myself a bit with bated breath until I finally hear the softest, fastest, "Thump, thump, thump." He was alive, but his accelerated heart rate most likely meant he was moments before death. I curl his shirt in my fingers, trying to hold back any tears I could. 

"What are you-" he says, cutting himself off with a muffled cough, his voice just above me. I go to jump back but feel a hand clutching my waist. 

Increasingly shallow breaths. He was close to death, possibly mere moments away. My shaky hands grip his clothes. I swipe my face across his shirt, trying to wipe away stinging tears while in his grasp. I begin to sob, not trying to unpack or judge these feelings, and instead take them as they are with such little time left. I know I like him. And he likes me. He risked his life to pry my body from the desert so I, someone he didn't know, could live. He's sweet, and kind, and I'll never get to know more about him or look forward to an unexpected visit from him at the tavern while working again. 

Something strange begins to happen as I sit with these feelings. A light flicks its way around the room, growing, shifting, spreading in the air. A bright, fiery, familiar luminance dancing around us. I feel a pain in my side, burning deep within my flesh, I clutch it, pulling away from Val and slipping to the floor. It burrows its way further, finally nestling halfway through my body. The pain slowly fades to a throbbing ache, far more tolerable than the stabbing pain prior. 

"Elaine!" Val shoots up from my bed, attempting to pull me from the floor. I look up, seeing that some much-needed color has returned to his previously pale complexion. The way his arm gripped my shoulder showed a return of some strength. I stumble upwards, bracing my arm on Val's knee to get up. The jolt upwards shook his hair from his helm, thick black locks now flowing down his shoulders. I glance at his waist, his deep, bleeding wound has become a gnarly, scarred-over scab, but the bleeding has stopped. 

"I don't- I don't understand," I tell him. 

"Well, it seems to me that you’re magical, Elaine." Val says, pausing for a moment for breath, "I owe you my life."

"It's alright, I already owed you mine." I try to force a chuckle.

He looks at me in silence for a moment, then it clicks that he must have been making a confused expression beneath his helm. 

"When we first met, in the desert; you saved me from the Feijugh," I explain.

“I suppose I did. I owe you my life, and you owe me yours.” He laughs.

“That’s right, what do you suppose we call us? Even?” I respond.

“If we both owe each other our lives…I’d call us married.” He says in a tone I couldn’t tell was joking.

“Is that what you’d figure? I suppose it makes sense,” I laugh, trying to gauge if he’ll return the demeanor. 

“It would take care of your family issue, too.” He says, gesturing to me and going to take a drink from the bottle I still had in my bag. 

“How so?” I ask, more genuine than joking now.

“Asterian laws don’t allow royalty to wed with commoners or foreign citizens, and if they were to, they’d be ex-communicated from their family. It's happened enough in your line, don’t rule it out.” He says.

“Hmm,” is all I can muster for a moment until he adds on.

“You’re classified as missing right now, not eloped. There is not one article saying you ran away to elope, however, there are many stating missing. If you were found by your family married to… someone like me, then you’d be quietly cut from your family, so as not to draw attention to the masses with a taboo, alluring story. No mess, no problem, just a quiet, mutual understanding between family and your new freedom.” He says.

I have no idea how to respond to this, I’m overwhelmed by feelings, to say the least.

“You must forgive me, I’ve… lost a lot of blood. I understand if I’ve been incoherent.” He spits out, quickly getting up to leave. He hides a grunt, muffling the sound of pain shooting through him.

“You’ve got your armor here, and you still seem hurt. It's a nasty scab, you should still be monitored to make sure it's healing properly. Also, your shirt is still partially off.” I say.

“Yes, right. I think I'll need to strip down to clothes. I can’t stand the weight of my armor right now.” he says, sitting on the bed again. He starts to unfasten his greaves. He decides to keep his helm and boots on, since I doubt he’d had any other shoes on beneath other than footwraps. He waits for a moment, and I decide to fetch Marietta to examine the now scabbed-over wound.

I open the door to see her already waiting with a poor attempt to hide a disgruntled look on her face. She flashes a small smile, not being able to muster it for long as she approaches Val. She pushes down on his collarbone, guiding him to lie on the bed. She brushes her fingers over the rugged patch of skin, and I hear Val’s breath hitch. 

“Did you… cauterize this?” She asks straight-faced as if already knowing the answer.

“No, to be honest, I’m not sure exactly what happened. How does it look?” I ask, unable to form a proper response. It seems the shock of the situation was still settling in.

“It looks as if it’s been healing for about a while now…” She pauses, her eyes locked on his abdomen, “As if we were able to stabilize him. What exactly happened here?” 

I struggle for words, Val sees this and chimes in, giving his account of the story.

“Elaine, why did you shout and fall to the floor?” Her tone was so blunt and cold that it felt as though I’d done something wrong by saving his life. 

“There was a quick, sharp pain in my side, but then it faded to a dull throb moments later,” I tell her.

“How does it feel now?” She asks.

“It’s difficult to describe, it's more of a warm constriction now. Like if you were to put a hot compress on my body. The warmth runs deep, halfway through me, I’d say.” I manage. 

I see Val put his head down when I say this, making me wonder what occupies his thoughts. Marietta nods, turning toward me.

“Elaine, do you mind showing me your waist?” she asks.

“Where would I change? Val is in here and I can’t go anywhere else…” I sheepishly point out. 

“We could try the bathhouse, but it’s still open, so there’s no guarantee of complete privacy either way. Val? Do you think you’ll be able to leave the room for a moment?” She asks, obviously skeptical and only humoring me. 

He pulls his shirt down over his chest, further adjusting his clothes before getting up. He braces himself this time when getting up, clearly trying to be careful. He takes a few steps before stumbling to the floor in front of the doorway. 

Marietta and I each jolt to aid him, but he interjects by jutting his palm out toward us. 

“I’ll just…look away then?” He says, embarrassed. He manages to get back up onto the bed without much assistance. 

“Um… How do I know your eyes are closed? It's difficult to guarantee without being able to see your face, you know.” I say with an awkward chuckle. 

“Well,” He says, grasping for his helm. My breath hitches, waiting in anticipation, even Marietta can’t take her eyes off of him. 

He takes his helm in his hands, twisting it around until we can see the solid back of his helm without removing it. 

“Can you breathe like that?” I say without thinking. He responds by putting his thumb up in my general direction. 

It clicks just then that Val… is a bit of an idiot. Or at the very least holds an obscure sense of humor. My mind flashes back to watching him sweep the glass pile in my room for minutes on end in awkward silence. No, he’s an idiot. Despite this, I still feel a warm glow radiating within me whenever I even see him. Why was this? 

My attention breaks back to Marietta when she begins lifting the skirt of my tavern uniform. I attempt to shove away the feeling of embarrassment, knowing that it was for good reason. Finally, she hoists it up past my waist, giving a small gasp. 

“What?”

“Look for yourself,” Marietta says, pulling fabric to the side to reveal a large, bright scar on my waist. It was the same color as the light that permeated the room when I was alone with Val.

“This is unlike any healing magic I’ve ever seen, even in elven areas. I don’t know what to deduce from this.” She looks mortified as she speaks.

“I’ll need to discuss this with my family. If I go back then I- then we won’t have to worry about another attack like this either. I had no idea I was capable of magic, on every account I shouldn’t be.” I say, racking my brain with possible explanations. 

“But what abou-” Val says, stopping when Marietta shoots him a glance. 

“But what about what, Val?” She says, stepping closer to him. “Nothing, I didn’t say anything.” He says. She leans in close, holding his helm at either side. She turns his helm around, attempting to make eye contact through the dark eye slit in his helmet. He continues his silence.

“Well, if you’re sure you didn’t say anything,” she says. She lingers in the doorway before leaving, “Val will have to rest here until he’s able to at least support his own weight. I hope you two don’t have an issue with that. Could be hours, days, even weeks.” She says dryly. 

“Anyway, I’ll tell Kenrik that it isn’t an emergency anymore and that he can feel free to open the tavern up again. You’ll be able to work, Elaine?” She asks. I simply nod, staying quiet and reserved after her strange demeanor. I dare not say anything about the headache I can already feel forming. 

I go to leave my room when Val stops me. I am once again reminded how his unarmored hand felt so much different; softer, warmer. I pull my attention to him. 

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean what I said. I don’t know why I did, and I’d never want to make you uncomfortable. I assure you that I was just thinking of ways to help.” He says quickly, trying to shove the topic off. 

“I understand,” I say, holding onto his hand still over mine. I run my thumb over his thinly gloved knuckles. “You were bleeding out, I can’t expect you to think too clearly. I think it's sweet that you were still trying to aid me in such a weak condition. If you’re feeling well soon, I think I might need an escort into Asteria, family issues to discuss and all.” 

He nods, letting his hand slip from mine. As I sneak out the door I look at him, “You know, you should really try to be more selfish sometimes.” I chuckle. His kindness is what has gotten him into such a troubled situation, I think preserving himself would do him better. 

[ghostintheheadset]

watchmojo's top five headphones_haver fics of 2023 (not clickbait)

I'm looking at my 2023 stats on ao3 and fandom disparities are really funny to me lmao, my main fandom at the moment is fe3h, and of the 22 fics I posted this year, 19 of them were fe3h.

All three of the non-fe3h fics are my top three most kudos'ed fics of the year:

It goes without saying ofc that these numbers don't really matter, if I was only doing this for the kudos I'd be writing m/m genshin fic, and it's not really surprising why the numbers are the way they are- both my Pokemon and Zelda fics were posted within a few months of the game coming, and gwitch is also relatively new and I was writing for far and away the most popular ship. Meanwhile, 3h is now past the 4 year mark, and largely m/m dominated while the majority of my fics are f/f. While I would certainly enjoy all my fics getting popular, seeing the numbers like this makes it easy to remember that engagement isn't a metric of quality.

(In that vein, Falling is probably the fic I spent the least amount of time on this year, being impulse-written in about 2 hours. Sometimes niche fics you pour your heart and soul into can't reach the same level of popularity as wider-appeal stories you wrote much more quickly, and that's okay)

That said, though, I am happy with the fics that made top 2. There's something satisfying about my first and last fics of the year being the most popular, and I am very happy with how the both of them turned out. They're both representative of the themes I like writing about and are both wholesome yuri, so I think they "belong" in the top 5 as much as any fic could be said to.

Numbers 4 and 5 are kind of a surprise to me- Pegasus Knight Dysphoria is a gen fic about a trans girl and Someday is an f/f rarepair. Of the 19 (wow) 3h fics I've written over 2023, these are not the two I'd expect to break into the top 5, but it's a pleasant surprise that they did!

Anyway, none of that actually matters beyond being mildly interesting to me specifically. Onward to 2024:

According to my stats page, I posted 126k words of fic in 2023, which averaged out to a little over 10k words a month or about 345 words a day. Not bad! Looking to get those numbers up next year though. If I don't, then that'll be okay, but 126k is the Word Count To Beat if possible.

I would also like to do some more fandom events! Apparently there's a FE rarepair week happening literally right now that I wasn't aware of until yesterday. Hoooopefully I'll be able to see more of that kind of thing now that I'm here, as they've always been a lot of fun when I could participate. I'm not leaving 3h just yet, but I would like to branch out a bit more- I definitely have more gwitch fics lined up, and I'd like to also branch out a bit and write for some other fandoms I haven't gotten around to yet.

Big writing goal is to finish Together We Ride, and also work on it more consistently. I was putting off starting it for a while because I wanted to "wait for a good time", but I realized if I kept that up it would never get started. Considering I started it in April and there's currently 7 chapters, it was in fact "not a good time", but! I am committed to seeing it through in the upcoming year.

That's about it I think. It's been lovely writing fic over the past year (and a great way to unwind from the Grad School Stress), and I'm very much looking forward to exploring more next year.

(might do a roundup later today of some fics from this year I really liked we'll see)